Shield of the fearful,

Source of hope,
as we mourn the sudden violence
and the deaths of our brothers and sisters,
show us the immense power of your goodness
and strengthen our faith.
Come swiftly to our aid,
and have mercy on all who call on you.
Comfort those who mourn this day
and gather the dead in your mercy.
Bring to us at last the peace
you promise in Jesus Christ
who lives and reigns for ever and ever. Amen.

–From the longer service “Prayer for Peace in the Face of Tragedy,”
Archdiocese of Chicago.