January 28
John McCrae and All Physicians, Nurses, and Caregivers in War
Commemoration of all physicians, nurses, medics, and caregivers who minister amid the devastations of war.
Collect
O merciful God, whose servants minister unto the wounded, the dying, and the afflicted amidst the devastations of war: Grant unto all physicians, nurses, medics, and caregivers compassion in service, steadfastness in trial, and hope amidst sorrow; that by their labors the suffering may find comfort and the dying peace; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
Prayer over the Offerings
Receive, O Lord, the sacrifices and prayers of thy people offered in remembrance of John McCrae and all who minister unto the suffering in times of war; and grant that we, strengthened by these holy mysteries, may serve thee faithfully in works of mercy and compassion; through Christ our Lord. Amen.
Proper Preface
…Who dost raise up servants of mercy to minister unto the wounded and dying amidst the sorrows of war, granting compassion to the healer, comfort to the suffering, and hope unto those in despair. And therefore with Angels and Archangels…
Post-Communion Prayer
Grant, O Lord, that we who have received these holy mysteries may faithfully minister unto the sick, the suffering, and the dying, after the example of thy servants who laboured in mercy amidst the cruelties of war; through Christ our Lord. Amen.
Optional Commemoration Sentence
“They shall beat their swords into plowshares.”
— Isaiah 2:4
“Praesens Inter Servientes” — Present among those who serve.