1

Missing in the darkness,
vanished without a trace,
with only the memories and photographs,
to fill an empty place.

2

Frequent prayer and fervent cries,
is there anyone there?
But the only sound
was the silent eternal fanfare.

3

For a long time
its deafening sound
subdued by a path
through lost and found.

4

Laughter and sorrow,
anguish and grief,
all the moments of a life
but with no relief.

5

Everything and nothing
one within and between all,
gentle, loving, pervading,
the eternal silence falls.

O, Blessed Mother and St Joseph,
you searched when your Son Jesus
disappeared when he was twelve.
You would not give up
until he was found.
You know the pain of having someone missing,
and the joy of finding them,
as you found your son.
Help those who are searching now,
to find the answers to their questions,
and an end to their searching.
Inspire people to be vigilant,
so that their eyes and ears
may see and hear news that will bring hope.
Comfort those who feel lonely and sad
because the one they love has vanished.
Be with them in the storm
and guide them in their efforts.
We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen