On the old Roman calendar, 10 July remembered the Seven Holy Brothers, Roman martyrs who, according to tradition, were the sons of St Felicity. Their mother encouraged each of them to stay faithful and then was martyred herself. The story became a picture of a family that held on to the faith together.
Historical Context
Jesus knew his disciples needed rest. After they returned from their first mission, he told them to come away to a quiet place, “for there were many coming and going, and they had no leisure so much as to eat.” Summer is a natural time to take him up on it.
A July 10 Prayer
Lord, thank you for summer:
for long evenings, warm days, and time with people I love.
Help me actually rest, not just fill the days with more.
Bless every family travelling today, and bring them home safely.
Keep our family close to each other and to you,
as the Seven Brothers and their mother held fast together.
Amen.
A Prayer for Rest
Jesus, you invited your tired friends to come away and rest.
I’m tired too. Teach me to rest in you.
Amen.
For Those Who Can’t Take a Break
Lord, bless those working through summer heat:
farmworkers, roofers, nurses, and parents with no break.
Give them strength and some relief.
Amen.
Best Times for This Prayer
- On 10 July, or any midsummer morning.
- Before a family holiday or road trip.
- On a day off, to begin it with God.
Scripture Connection
“And he said unto them, Come ye yourselves apart into a desert place, and rest a while.” — Mark 6:31
Rest isn’t laziness. Jesus commanded it. Sometimes the holiest thing we can do in July is slow down.
Related prayers
For July, see the July 14 Prayer and July 21 Prayer. For travel, the Saint Christopher Prayer.