Father Mike Schmitz

But far be it from me to glory except in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, by which the world has been crucified to me and I to the world.

For neither circumcision counts for anything nor uncircumcision, but a new creation.

Peace and mercy be upon all who walk by this rule, upon the Israel of God.

Henceforth, let no man trouble me, for I bear on my body the marks of Jesus.

The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit, brethren.

The rod and reproof give wisdom, but a child left to himself brings shame to his mother.

When the wicked are in authority, transgression increases, but the righteous will look upon their downfall.

Discipline your son and he will give you rest.

We thank you for the gift of all that St.

Paul went through, his imprisonment and persecution, his afflictions, not only his afflictions and doing this out of love for you and in service to the gospel so that we can have him as an example, but also, Father,

Thank you for giving him a spirit of joy in the midst of all this.

Joy in the midst of affliction.

We ask you to please give us joy in the midst of affliction.

Abba, Father, Dad in heaven, give us joy in the midst of affliction.

In the midst of persecution, help us to trust in you more than anything else.

When we cannot trust in ourselves or even in the people who love us and claim to love us, help us to always trust in you.

In Jesus' name we pray.

Amen.

In the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit.

Amen.