1. Prayers for the week 19-23 November 2018
Prayer theme: Companionship
Companionship is one of the FCJ values.
We work together, support and love one another. Companionship is breaking the bread of life together as together we live God’s dream for each of us more fully.
Together we learn, pray, laugh and cry.
It is natural to get on better with some people and while it might be impossible to be friends with everybody, you can be a good companion to everyone in school and it makes school a better place for all.
FCJ Companionship is inspired by the women who were companions of Jesus to the cross and beyond.

2. Monday 19 November A reading from the Gospel according to John
Jesus said to them, "Come and have breakfast." None of the disciples dared ask him, "Who are you?" They knew it was the Lord.
Pause for thought:
Why is sharing a meal together important?

3. Monday 19 November
Take a moment to think of your friends. Give thanks for the gift of friendship and pray for them. May you be blessed with good friends, And learn to be a good friend yourself. May you treasure your friends, May you be good to them, be there for them. May you never be isolated but know the embrace of your God. Amen

4. Tuesday 20 November
The power of teamwork Loving God, we ask your forgiveness for the times we only think of what we want and think we need. Help us to be mindful of others and realize that we can do more together than alone. Amen.

5. Tuesday 20 November
Dear God, Thank you for the gift of true companionship. In the darkest moments of our life, send us a friend to bring your healing love. In times of joy send us a friend to celebrate our joy. In times of sorrow send us a friend for us to lean on. Help us support and comfort one another and always be willing to reach out in times of need. Amen.

6. Wednesday 21 November
We pray, dear Lord, for our friends and pray that we will be good friends in turn – that we will be there when our friend needs us and won’t judge, we will know when to say nothing; we will be understanding when our friend is tired and says something unkind or out of character; we will forgive them when it’s more than that; we won’t be possessive when other friends come along; we will find time to be with our friend, in person, and not just online; we will give good advice even when we know it’s not what they want to hear; we will bring out the best in our friend, help them to see their gifts and help them grow.
Dear Lord, you had good friends and knew the good days and bad days. Help me to understand that real friendship is about giving without expecting anything in return. Amen.

7. Wednesday 21 November
A friend (by Gillian Jones) A person who will listen and not condemn Someone on whom you can depend They will not flee when bad times are here Instead they will be there to lend an ear They will think of ways to make you smile So you can be happy for a while When times are good and happy there after They will be there to share the laughter Do not forget your friends at all For they pick you up when you fall Do not expect to just take and hold Give friendship back, it is pure gold.

8. Thursday 22 November Watch this video
Loving God,
You have made each of us unique. We thank you for the many gifts each of us brings. As you take pleasure in all of us and our gifts, help us to see and rejoice in them and make the world a better place. Amen.

9. Thursday 22 November
Dear God, help us to be compassionate and loving people. As we journey through the day, encourage us to reach out to someone who needs our help. Help us know when a simple act can make a big difference in the life of someone. May we see the face of Jesus in everyone and share his love with all.

10. Friday 23 November A reading according to the Gospel of John:
Near the cross of Jesus stood his mother, his mother’s sister, Mary the wife of Clopas, and Mary Magdalene.
From the FCJ constitutions
God calls us to follow the Son in faithfulness, to stand at the foot of the cross with Mary and the holy women, there to be one with Jesus who thirsts for the coming of the kingdom.
Loving God,
Friendships often fade in difficult times. Help us to be faithful and good companions to each other, especially in times of need. Amen.

11. Friday 23 November Examen
Be silent and place yourself in God’s loving presence. Think about the good things that have happened this week and give thanks.​
Who have you left a good memory with this week?
Look back over your week. Where have you felt joy and what has been difficult and challenged you? In the quiet of your heart, tell God about your experiences.​ Give thanks for who you are.
As you look ahead, with what spirit will you enter next week?
Ask God to help you.

12. Afternoon Prayer and Reflection
Lord
Thank you for the morning, for watching over me and walking with me. May I find joy and understanding this afternoon, in all I do. Grant me the zest and the strength I need to work for you until nightfall. Amen
Let us pause for a few moments in silence and remember those family members and friends who need our prayers and support today…………
Let us ask Mary, our Mother, to join us in our prayers as we say:
Hail Mary, full of grace, the Lord is with thee. Blessed art thou amongst women and blessed is the fruit of thy womb, Jesus. Holy Mary, Mother of God, pray for us sinners now and at the hour of our death. Amen
We end our reflection with a prayer inspired by our foundress followed by the school prayer:
Loving Father, life-giving spirit – Marie Madeleine believed in your power, hoped in your promises and lived for your glory. We ask her to pray for us and be with us as we carry the FCJ spirit into the 21st century. Protect and guide the pupils and staff at Upton and at all FCJ schools in this country and around the world. Amen
May the Lord bless us and keep us from all evil and bring us to everlasting life. Amen