God, grant me the serenity to touch the flesh of the person before me with the same care with which Mary cradled her child at Bethlehem.

Give me the courage to guide the spirit of this person the way Joseph sought a safe place for the child he accepted as his own.

Bestow upon me the wisdom to offer human solace to this patient along with my knowledge of your creation.

May all I do prepare this patient for all you desire to accomplish beyond my power to heal. For to you alone who created and redeemed us both, belongs the power to make all things complete.

Amen.

(Rev. Richard Chiola, 2008)