Pope Francis has asked the worldwide Catholic community to observe the World Day of the Poor for the first time on, Sunday 19 November. The World Day of the Poor will be observed each year on the 33rd Sunday of the Church’s liturgical calendar.

Loving God, Open our ears to hear you in the cry of those living in poverty.

Open our eyes to see you in the lives of the oppressed.
Open our hearts to meet you in others and to respond with mercy and compassion.

Pour out on us your grace, so that we may grow as your faithful people,
always seeking your kingdom of Truth, Justice and Peace.

Through Christ our Lord,
Amen