Diocesan News

Day of Prayer for the Wellness of Clergy and Men and Women Religious

By The Tablet Staff

PROSPECT HEIGHTS — A day of prayer dedicated to the health and wellness of clergy, and men and women religious, will be held Friday, Oct. 20.

The event is to provide spiritual support to those who tirelessly serve the Church and the people of God. It will also serve as an awareness campaign and reminder of the importance of self-care, healing, and maintaining a strong spiritual foundation.

Saint John Vianney Center (SJVC), a behavioral health and addictions treatment and resource center providing holistic care and support exclusively for clergy and men and women religious worldwide, will host the event. 

The highlight will be a Mass livestreamed from Our Lady of Hope Chapel on the SJVC campus in Downingtown, Pennsylvania, at 11 a.m. 

The Mass will be celebrated by SJVC chaplain Father David Brzoska, and concelebrated by Msgr. Roberto Garza, a SJVC board member, pastor of St. Joachim Church in Miami, and president and general director of Radio Paz. 

“Amidst the challenges and demands faced by clergy and men and women religious, it is crucial to prioritize their health and well-being,” said SJVC President and CEO David Shellenberger. “The Day of Prayer serves as a moment of support and renewal as we collectively uplift our dedicated servants in prayer and seek God’s grace for their continued  service.” 

SJVC invites individuals, Catholic dioceses, schools and parishes, religious communities and Catholic nonprofits to join in this day of prayer, either by participating in the livestreamed Mass or by incorporating prayers and intentions for the health and wellness of clergy and men and women religious into their weekday Masses and devotions. 

Those who wish to help promote this day are invited to display the day of prayer logo on their website, link it to their landing page, and use the hashtag #SJVCdayofprayer on social media.

To learn more visit https://www.sjvcenter.org/dayofprayer/