Gracious and loving God, we are so thankful for the great love and sacrifice of our parish priests and deacons. Lord, protect them, guide them, and keep them in your heart. We ask you to comfort them during times of loneliness, strengthen them in times of sorrow, and remind them, Father, of how much they are truly needed. Allow them to experience joy in their ministry as they are sacred instruments of your divine grace, and grant them the strength and courage they need to be the divine shepherds of your people. We ask this through Jesus Christ, who is the giver of all good things in life.