The feast of the Holy Rosary was instituted by Pope Pius V to celebrate the anniversary of the defeat of the Turkish fleet at the battle of Lepanto on the first Sunday in October 1571, which ended the threat of Muslim domination of the Mediterranean and was ascribed in part to the prayers and processions of the Rosary confraternity in Rome. Later the feast was moved to the fixed date of 7 October.

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Collect

Pour forth, we beseech you, O Lord,
your grace into our hearts,
that we, to whom the Incarnation of Christ your Son
was made known by the message of an Angel,
may, through the intercession of the Blessed Virgin Mary,
by his Passion and Cross
be brought to the glory of his Resurrection.
Who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit,
God, for ever and ever.
Amen.

Speaking at the close of Mass in St Peter’s Square, Pope Leo condemns both the “immense suffering” of Gazans and the rise of “antisemitic hatred” ...

🚨 TOMORROW: Pray and Act for Gaza 🕊️

As we approach two years of war in Gaza, the Bishops' Conference of Scotland have asked Catholics across the country to dedicate 7th October to praying for peace in the Holy Land and wherever there is violence and conflict in our world.

Justice & Peace Scotland is inviting everyone to take part in two simple but powerful steps:

🕯️Step 1: Light a Prayer for Peace
Join us by visiting a Church tomorrow if you can, and lighting a candle for all those affected by the war in Gaza. Pray for an immediate end to violence, for any ceasefires or peace agreements to hold, for families to be reunited with loved ones taken hostage, and for a just and lasting peace to be achieved for all Palestinians and Israelis.

✍️ Step 2: Write to Your MP
A template letter is available on our website for you to download and personalise. Use it to urge the UK Government to do all in its power to help end the suffering, ensure humanitarian aid reaches those in need, and support genuine peace where both Palestinians and Israelis have agency in shaping their own futures.

Even as the situation continues to change rapidly, these actions remain vital. Together, through prayer and advocacy, we can shine a light in the darkness and be a voice for justice and peace.

🕯️PRAYERS FOR THE WORLD DAY OF MIGRANTS AND REFUGEES

This weekend, as we mark the 111th World Day of Migrants and Refugees, coinciding with the Jubilee of Migrants in Rome, we are inviting you to pray with us in a spirit of solidarity and hope for all people who are on a journey seeking safety, security and refuge.

Pope Leo XIV, in his message for the occasion, has called us to see migrants as missionaries of hope: as men, women, and children whose presence challenges us to live our faith in a deeper, more authentic and more inclusive way.

The intercessions below from Jesuit Refugee Service UK are offered to help you pray for migrants, refugees, and displaced persons around the world. They are especially suited for use during this special Jubilee weekend but can be prayed at any time, as a reflection of the Gospel call to welcome the stranger and to work for justice and peace.

✝️“I was a stranger and you welcomed me” (Mt 25:35)
For all migrants and refugees around the world, that they may find safety, welcome, and dignity in their journey, and that we may open our hearts and communities to receive them with love.
Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

✝️“The Lord is a refuge for the oppressed, a stronghold in times of trouble” (Ps 9:9)
For all people forced to flee their homes due to war and persecution, that they may find safety, and find hope through the compassion of others.
Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

✝️“Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfil the law of Christ” (Ga 6:2)
For all people working to give a warm welcome to refugees, in thanksgiving for their effort and generosity. We pray for organisations like the Jesuit Refugee Service, and for all who accompany, serve, and advocate for refugees.
Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

✝️“Do not neglect to show hospitality to strangers, for by doing that some have entertained angels without knowing it” (Heb 13:2)
For our local communities, that we may be moved by the Gospel call to welcome the stranger and act in solidarity with those on the margins.
Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

✝️“Learn to do good; seek justice, correct oppression” (Is 1:17)
For political leaders and decision-makers: that they may uphold the dignity and rights of migrants and refugees, and work for peace and justice in our world.
Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

✝️“You shall love the stranger, for you were strangers in the land of Egypt” (Dt 10:19)
We remember the Holy Family’s flight into Egypt, and all the stories of migration in Scripture. We pray for children and families displaced by conflict, that they may be protected, reunited, and given the opportunity to flourish in safety.
Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

✝️“He will wipe every tear from their eyes” (Rv 21:4)
For all who have died on their journey seeking refuge, that they may rest in God’s eternal peace, and that we may honour their memory by working for change.
Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.