A Prayer for Las Vegas, as the death toll climbs

For the victims, for families, for first responders and law enforcement, for all of us

The death toll out of Las Vegas has risen to 50, making it the deadliest mass shooting in U.S. History. On this feast of the Holy Guardian Angels, it is hard not to consider how much worse things could have been.

This is dreadful enough.

Pope Francis, calling the shooting a “senseless tragedy” has sent his thoughts and prayers to Las Vegas’ Bishop Joseph Anthony Pepe, and the people of the city.

According to the website for the Diocese of Las Vegas, the city’s patrons are the Holy Family, and Saints Peter and Paul. This is also the feastday of theHoly Guardian Angels, to whom we turn for protection.

Let us pray a prayer for all involved in this dreadful shooting: O Lord, by whose design the sands of our lives run fast or slow, be with us in this time of terror; send your Holy Spirit to help us grow in wisdom in the face of such a senseless act. Holy Family — Jesus, Mary and Joseph — be the consolation of families impacted by this violence and mayhem. Saints Peter and Paul, patrons of the city, Saint Michael the Archangel, patron of First Responders and Law Enforcement, pray for Las Vegas. Kyrie Eleison
Christe Eleison
Kyrie Eleison
For the sake of Christ’s sorrowful passion, have mercy on us, and on the whole world. Amen.