PRAYER FOR POPE BENEDICT XVI

O God, true shepherd of all the faithful, we pray for the repose of the soul of His Holiness Benedict XVI, Roman Pontiff Emeritus, whom you set as head and shepherd of your Church.

We give you thanks for your grace at work in him as he led us by word and example: in his teaching, in his prayer, and in his great love.

Grant, we beseech You, that he, who on earth held the place of Your only-begotten Son, may be joined forevermore to the fellowship of Your holy pontiffs.

Guide your Church, built on the rock of Peter, with the power of your Spirit as we continue on the path that leads to You.

We ask this in the name of Jesus Christ, who said, "Come to me, all you who labor and are burdened, and I will give you rest."

Amen.