Lord Jesus, you learned at your mother's knee and, when it came time, you left your home in Nazareth to begin your mission. I bring my heartfelt petitions before you as a mother of a college-aged young adult, entrusting them to you, confident that you will hear me and watch over my child as he/she leaves our home for college.
For all young men and women headed to college
That they embrace their new environment with optimism and confidence
Jesus, I entrust them to you.
That they make good, holy, lifelong friends
Jesus, I entrust them to you.
That they have the courage to try new things and explore the opportunities college provides
Jesus, I entrust them to you.
That they grow in their faith, avail themselves regularly of the Sacraments, and witness to others
Jesus, I entrust them to you.
That they take their studies seriously, applying themselves ardently
Jesus, I entrust them to you.
That they avoid the temptation to alcohol, drugs, and unchaste relationships
Jesus, I entrust them to you.
That peace, not anxiety, characterizes their day-to-day experience at college
Jesus, I entrust them to you.
That they remember to check in at home at least once a week!
Jesus, I entrust this to you!
For moms of college aged young adults
That my heart, sad at the passing of time and missing my child, will be comforted by the Great Consoler.
Jesus, I trust in you.
That the change in family dynamics will be a blessing for all of us
Jesus, I trust in you.
That I may prudently detach from the success or failures of my college-aged young adult, so as to be supportive as needed
Jesus, I trust in you.
That I may embrace this transition as a mother with optimism and confidence in You
Jesus, I trust in you.
That I will be blessed by a community of supportive, faith-filled friends
Jesus, I trust in you.
That with renewed vigor, I remember to place all my concerns and worries at the foot of the cross and grow in dependence on you.
Jesus, I trust in you.
That all of my my work, joys and sufferings will give glory to You.
Jesus, I trust in you.
That I may imitate Mother Mary who pondered all things in her heart (Luke 2:19) so that I may grow in virtue and become a better wife and mother.
Jesus, I trust in you.
Jesus, in this exciting time for our family, we turn to you with hearts full of gratitude for the many ways you have led us to this moment. May we grow through this time of transition to a greater dependence on you, a greater understanding of your love for each one of us, and a greater appreciation for each other. Amen