The Story of Father Damien Molokai: Father Damien of Molokai was a priest from Belgium (Europe) who lived in the 1800's. He was sent on a mission to Hawaii to help evangelize and care for those in need. After several years there, he made the decision to go to the island of Molokai and tend to a group of people there with leprosy. Leprosy affects people by causing lots of painful skin sores and weakening muscles. It can be caught by coming into contact with someone who has leprosy, so in many places in history people with the disease are outcast and made to live in groups away from most people. Like Jesus, Fr. Damien had compassion for these people and wanted to share the love of God with them. He built hospitals and cared for the sick, particularly the children. Eventually, Fr. Damien got leprosy himself and died. He taught many people about God and cared for many sick, just as Jesus taught.
Intentions: Ask for any special intentions from the kids for family or friends who are sick.
Heavenly Father, you teach us to care for the sick and gave us the example of St. Damien of Molokai and all the great saints who cared for those who were sick. We ask that you remember now those for whom we offer this prayer, all our family and friends who are sick. Help us to care for them as Jesus taught us. Bless our practice that we may be kept safe from injury and bless all those in our classes and on opposing teams that they may be healthy and safe this season.
Amen.
