Reflection on the commemoration of Saint Herman of Alaska

On this winter feast day, let us pray to our most venerable father Herman:

O venerable father Herman of Alaska, wonderworker of America, heavenly patron and intercessor: we are sinful and unworthy of thy legacy, yet we are, nevertheless, thy children. Because of our sins and errors, we are beset by division in the Churches and division in our land. Our heart is troubled by the tribulations of the world, by violence and tumult, and yet in our body we are powerless, overcome by idleness and hopelessness. Reveal the mercy of Christ the Master, O most venerable and most loving father: kindle again our hope. Give us repentance to stir us to action and tears to wash away the grime of sin that cakes our lives. Warm our cold hands for deeds of love; strengthen our step so that we might stride over division and do good even to our worst enemies. Help us to find peace in the present, the Peace of Him Who Is, who rules over all things with a wisdom and providence beyond our comprehension and a goodness beyond our measure, overseeing a saving design and economy that befit the majesty and glory of him to whom are due all honor and dominion and might, now and unto countless ages of ages. Amen. Venerable father Herman, pray to God for us!