Blessing for Sarah Rudolph IBVM, Sept 16, 2025

Sr. Sarah has been appointed representative of the IBVM NGO https://ibvmunngo.org

On this day 178 years ago, some of our sisters landed here to begin a new mission.  I ‘m sure when they left Ireland, they went with blessings, encouragement and much love.  We are giving that today to Sarah as she leaves for New York city and the United Nations, sent by the joint leadership of IBVM and CJ as we head into formal union in the ministry of God’s people and for God’s people around the world. We are sending her to important work in a time of great confusion in our world.

All types of beginnings need openness, conviction, courage, humility, love, determination, patient persistence and above all, trust in God and constant communication with God in prayer. 

Sarah, we pray today that you have confidence in the gifts you have been given to do this work and we promise to pray for you and support you in all the ways we can. We believe that our Mary Ward charism rooted in the ‘Just Soul’ – Freedom, justice and Sincerity is needed at the United Nations and pray that you will stand tall in our charism so as to bring justice and dignity to all peoples in the world. We are grateful for your acceptance of this mission and proud to have you represent the Institute.

Let us pray for you and for the United Nations. Please come forward.

God of compassion, walk alongside Sarah and all of your global stewards who work to create a more just and peaceful world. 

 Equip the United Nations community with a sense of urgency and humility that lets your will be done.  R Jesus, say Amen

Each day you give bread enough for all, grant us also the wisdom to ensure that everyone has enough.  R

Teach the world’s leaders to forgive, to extend welcome across borders. R

 Show the world a new path beyond greed, oppression and division. R

 We pray for a world united.  R

We pray for the power to save succeeding generations from war. R

We pray for a glory that reaffirms the dignity and worth of every person. R

We pray that your grace might ensure life in larger freedom forever, for all your children. R

Extend hands in blessing

Thank you for the work of the UN and for our Sister Sarah, whom you have called to serve in that system. Grant all who serve, wisdom and courage. Grant rest, instil a sense of calm.  When the way is difficult, give strength.  When the way is obscured, give guidance. Provide all that is needed for the living of these days and the faithful fulfillment of entrusted tasks. Jesus, say Amen.  

I invite you now to come and offer Sarah your Sign of Peace

Prepared by Mary Mallany IBVM