Each month, Pope Leo asks the faithful to pray for his intentions. This tradition started in the 19th Century and comes from a time of discernment by the Holy Father to help address the challenges facing humanity and the mission of the Church. It started back in the 1870’s with Pope Leo XIII and every subsequent pope has continued the tradition.

This month’s intention hits home for me, as someone who has struggled with depression and dark thoughts for much of my life. I’m blessed that my wife and daughter and my friends are so supportive of me when the dark cloud catches up to me on those days when I get worn down by the race I run. I’m forever grateful for those who, with God’s grace, have helped me pick my cross back up and push through and remember that I am indeed worthy of the life God has given me and of His salvation through his Son.

Here’s Pope Leo’s full prayer, released in a video on November 4th:

Lord Jesus,

You who invite the weary and burdened

to come to you and rest in your heart,

we ask you this month for all the people

who live in darkness and despair,

especially for those struggling

with suicidal thoughts.

May they always find a community

that welcomes them, listens to them, and accompanies them.

Give all of us an attentive and compassionate heart,

capable of offering comfort and support,

also with the necessary professional help.

May we know how to be close with respect and tenderness,

helping to heal wounds, build bonds, and open horizons.

Together may we rediscover that life is a gift,

that there is still beauty and meaning,

even in the midst of pain and suffering.

We are well aware that those who follow you

are also vulnerable to sadness without hope.

We ask you to always make us feel your love

so that, through your closeness to us,

we can recognize and proclaim to all the infinite love of the Father

who leads us by the hand to renew our trust in the life you give us.

Amen.