Monthly Prayers & Prayer Request March
Please Submit Your Prayer Request The Saint Michael Center will receive your prayer request. Please be assured that your intentions have been presented in confidence into the hands of a Holy Priest and that they will be directly offered in Holy Mass, the highest and most sublime of all prayers, united with our prayers for you at the Saint Michael Center. May The LORD bless thee, and keep thee safe and healthy May The LORD make His face shine upon thee, and be gracious unto thee. The LORD lift up His Countenance upon thee, and grant thee His peace The Miracle Prayer Lord Jesus, l come before You, just as I am. I am sorry for my sins, I repent of my sins, please forgive me In Your name, I forgive all others for what they have done against me. I renounce Satan, the evil spirits and all their works. l give You my entire self. Lord Jesus, now and forever, I invite You into my life Jesus, I accept You as my Lord, God and Saviour. Heal me, change me, strengthen me in body, soul and spirit. Come Lord Jesus cover me with Your precious blood, and fill me with Your Holy Spirit, I love You Lord Jesus. I praise You Jesus. I thank You Jesus. I shall follow You every day of my life. Amen. SAY “THE MIRACLE PRAYER” ! BELIEVE IN MIRACLES. GOD LOVES YOU !
March Month Prayers
March 1st
Saint David of Wales
Almighty God, you called your servant David to be a faithful and wise steward of your mysteries for the people of Wales: Mercifully grant that, following his purity of life and zeal for the Gospel of Christ, we may with him receive our heavenly reward; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy spirit, God, forever and ever.
Amen.
A prayer for Saint David’s Day
Almighty God, on this special day for the people of Wales,
we remember Saint David, your servant.
We give thanks for his passion for the Gospel
which helped to spread Christianity;
We give thanks for his purity and simplicity of life
which enabled his pursuit of Christian perfection;
We give thanks for his gentleness, but clear spiritual leadership.
Grant that we may learn from him
and respond to the words that are thought to be his last:
‘Be steadfast, and do the little things’;
through Jesus Christ our Lord.
Amen.
Prayer To St David
God our Father,
you gave the bishop David to the Welsh Church
to uphold the faith
and to be an example of Christian perfection.
In this changing world may he help us to hold fast to the values
which bring eternal life.
Through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son,
who lives and reigns with you
in the unity of the Holy Spirit,
one God, forever and ever.
Amen.
Novena To Saint David Of Wales
Blessed David, you are an apostle
and patron for the people of Wales.
Grant, I implore, that through your prayers,
your people will be enlightened
by the truth which you taught,
and they will obtain everlasting life.
Heavenly Father,
you know all things,
and nothing is hidden from you;
in your kindness come to my aid in my present distress,
and grant this my humble petition:
(Mention your need here…)
In Jesus’s name, I beg your help but may God’s will be done.
Amen.
Say 1: Our Father…
Say 1: Hail Mary…
Say 1: Glory Be…
St David of Wales, Pray for us.
Prayer for the Church
O God, who graciously bestowed on your
Bishop Saint David of Wales
the virtue of wisdom and the gift of eloquence,
and made him an example of prayer and pastoral zeal;
grant that, through his intercession,
your Church may ever prosper and render you joyful praise.
Through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son,
who lives and reigns with you
in the unity of the Holy Spirit,
one God, forever and ever.
Amen.
Closing Prayer
Almighty God, who called your servant David
to be a faithful and wise steward of your mysteries
for the people of Wales: Mercifully grant that,
following his purity of life and zeal for the Gospel of Christ,
we may, with him, praise you both here on earth
and also, in your everlasting kingdom;
through Jesus Christ our Lord,
who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit,
one God, forever and ever.
Amen.
St David, Bishop, Patron Of Wales
O God, who graciously bestowed on your
Bishop Saint David of Wales
the virtue of wisdom and the gift of eloquence,
and made him an example of prayer and pastoral zeal;
grant that, through his intercession,
your Church may ever prosper and render you joyful praise.
Through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son,
who lives and reigns with you
in the unity of the Holy Spirit,
one God, forever and ever.
Amen.
Prayer
Saint David,
You chose to live a simple life, and helped others whose lives were
simple not through choice but circumstances. Pray that I may consider
my choices and live more simply in order to make a big difference to
others.
Show me the way to make small tasks occasions of prayer. Kindle in me
a love of God so that in everything I do, I will keep that spirit of prayer.
Amen.
March 2nd
Saint David of Wales
March 3rd
Saint Katharine Drexel
Saint Katharine Drexel Novena
Opening Prayer
Ever loving God, you called Saint Katharine Drexel to teach the message of the Gospel and to bring the life of the Eucharist to the Black and Native American peoples. By her prayers and example, enable us to work for justice among the poor and oppressed. Draw us all into the Eucharistic community of your Church, that we may be one in you. Grant this through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, forever and ever.
Amen.
One Our Father, one Hail Mary, and one Glory Be
Closing Prayer
I wish to be one who conscientiously takes part in the unfolding of God’s plans, and eventually have a glorious part in the final unfolding of time into the glory of God’s Kingdom in heaven. If we are disciples (of Jesus) we shall be happy to spend ourselves and be spent for the salvation of souls.
St. Katharine Drexel,pray for us.
Day One: EUCHARIST
The Eucharist is a never-ending sacrifice. It is the Sacrament of love, the supreme love, the act of love. Help me each moment today and always to communicate myself to You by doing Your will.
St. Katharine Drexel, lover of the Eucharist, pray for us.
Day Two: EVANGELIZATION
I looked up in wonder at God’s wonderful ways and thought how little we imagine what may be the result of listening and acting on a desire He puts into the heart. Nourish before Him great desires… May our desire be to bring Him hearts, for all are His by right, having been purchased by every drop of His blood. – St. Katharine Drexel Brief pause for reflection Brief pause for reflection.
St. Katharine Drexel, model for those who evangelize, pray for us.
Day Three: PEACE
Peacefully do at each moment what at that moment ought to be done. If we do what each moment requires, we will eventually complete God’s plan, whatever it is. We can trust God to take care of the master plan when we take care of the details.
St. Katharine Drexel, steadfast in trust, pray for us.
Day Four: SERVANT OF THE POOR
Kindness is the natural fruit of goodness of heart. He (Jesus) loved every human being as the image of God … and so all that came within range of His benevolence were treated kindly for God’s sake and their own.
St. Katharine Drexel, lover of the poor, pray for us.
Day Five: SUFFERING OF CHRIST
Often in my desire to work for others I find my hands tied, something hinders my charitable designs, some hostile influence renders me powerless. My prayers seem to avail nothing, my kind acts are rejected, I seem to do the wrong thing when I am trying to do my best. In such cases I must not grieve. I am only treading in my Master’s steps.
St. Katharine Drexel, follower of the suffering Christ, pray for us.
Day Six: THE CROSS
(Christ) may be leading me out to a cross. If so, I can have no hesitation about following Him! I must follow Him closely, so that … I shall be near Him, my Good Shepherd, Who will help me to carry it, for He still bears His Cross in each one of His children.
St. Katharine Drexel, bearer of the cross, pray for us.
Day Seven: DEVOTION TO MARY
Teach me, O my dear Mother, the lesson of sacrifice. Help me, Mother, to take from the hands of Jesus, in the spirit of humble love, devotion to my daily crosses.
St. Katharine Drexel, daughter of Mary, pray for us.
Day Eight: BUILDING FOR ETERNITY
Out of our common todays and yesterday’s we are building for eternity. No thought, no work of ours ever dies. We shall meet them all again, and in the world to come shall find our gathered harvest.
St. Katharine Drexel, woman of vision, pray for us.
Day Nine: PRAYER AND WORK
The active life to be productive must have contemplation. When it (contemplation) gets to a certain height it overflows to active life and gets help and strength from the heart of God. This is the way the saints produced so much fruit, and we’re all called to be saints.
St. Katharine Drexel, model for the union of prayer and work, pray for us.
Novena Prayer To Saint Katharine Drexel
All praise and thanks to the Most Blessed Trinity,
the Father and Son and Holy Spirit.
We honor you when we acclaim all those
who share your life in eternal glory,
our Mother Mary, all the angels and saints.
We come before you, Father, in your Holy Spirit,
as we follow the way of your Son, Jesus,
to ask the heavenly aid of Saint Katharine Drexel.
Her sacred relics in this Mother Church
remind us that she is numbered among the Saints in heaven.
Your divine grace led Saint Katharine Drexel
to give herself completely over to your service in the Church
in imitation of the poor Savior, attending to the least,
as a virgin foundress and a laborer for the justice of the Gospel.
Her strength, virtue and fortitude came from her unwavering devotion
to the Mystery of the Most Holy Eucharist, the Blessed Sacrament.
Hear us now, we pray, as we bring to you our many prayers, petitions and intentions
through the intercession of Saint Katharine Drexel.
Pause for the silent mention of prayers, petitions and intentions.
O holy and Triune God,
our faith fills us with confidence as we bring our many needs to you,
trusting in the unfailing assistance of those in your everlasting company,
most especially our Philadelphia Saint.
Through Christ our Lord.
Amen.
March 4th
Saint Casimir
The Marian Prayer of Saint Casimir of Poland
Every day, O my soul, pay your respects to Mary,
Make her feasts solemn and celebrate her brilliant virtues;
Contemplate and admire her elevation;
Proclaim her blessedness both as Mother and Virgin;
Honor her so that she delivers you from the weight of your sins;
Invoke her so as not to be driven by the torrent of passion;
I do know if anybody can honor Our Lady worthily
Yet he who keeps silent in her praises is senseless;
Everyone should exalt and love her in a special way,
And never cease to cherish and pray to her;
O Mary, the honor and glory of all women,
You who God has raised above all creatures;
O Virgin of Mercy, hear the prayers of those who never stop praising you;
Purify those who are guilty and make them worthy of heaven;
Hail, O holy Virgin, through whom the gates of heaven were opened to undeserving souls
You, who, the old serpent’s snares never managed to seduce;
You repair and console despairing souls
Preserve us from the evils that will fall on the wicked;
Obtain perpetual peace for me,
And save me from the misfortune of the flames of Gehenna;
Obtain for me to be chaste and modest, gentle, kind, sober, pious, prudent, upright and the enemy of all falsehood;
Grant me meekness, love of harmony and purity;
Make me strong and constant on the path of righteousness.
Novena Prayer to St. Casimir
May the Blessed Virgin Mary, Mother of God, and all the Saints intercede with God for us. The Lord hath made His Saints wonderful. And heard them when they cried unto Him.
Let Us Pray
Preserve us, we beseech Thee, O Lord,
from all dangers to soul and body,
and by the intercession of the Blessed
and Glorious Mary ever Virgin, Mother of God,
of St. Joseph, the holy Apostles Peter and Paul,
of St. Casimir and all the Saints,
in Thy mercy, grant us health and peace,
that after all adversity and error is removed,
Thy Church may serve Thee in freedom and safety,
through the same Jesus Christ, Thy Son, Our Lord,
Who liveth and reigneth with Thee
in the union of the Holy Ghost
world without end.
Amen.
St. Casimir pray for us.
Say 3: Our Father…
Say 3: Hail Mary…
Say 3: Glory Be..
Prayer to Saint Casimir # 1
O God, who didst preserve thy servant Casimir
constant and faithful in thy service amidst the delights of a court,
and the attractive allurements of the world,
grant, we beseech thee, that by his intercession
thy people may despise the transitory things of the world
and eagerly pursue things which are eternal:
through Jesus Christ our Lord.
Prayer to Saint Casimir # 2
Enjoy thy well-earned rest in heaven, O Casimir!
Neither the world with all its riches,
nor the court with all its pleasures,
could distract thy heart from the eternal joys
it alone coveted and loved.
Thy life was short, but full of merit.
The remembrance of heaven made thee forget the earth.
God yielded to the impatience of thy desire to be with him,
and took thee speedily from among men.
Thy life, though most innocent, was one of penance,
for knowing the evil tendencies of corrupt nature,
thou hadst a dread of a life of comfort.
When shall we be made to understand
that penance is a debt we owe to God,
a debt of expiation for the sins we have committed against him?
Thou didst prefer death to sin;
get us a fear of sin,
that greatest of all the evils that can befall us,
because it is an evil which strikes at God himself.
Pray for us during this holy Season,
which is granted us that we may do penance.
The Christian world is honoring thee today;
repay its homage by thy blessing.
Poland, thy fatherland, is in mourning; comfort her.
She was once the bulwark of the Church,
and kept back the invasion of schism,
heresy, and infidelity;
and now she is crushed by tyrants,
who seek to rob her of her faith;
pray for her that she may be freed from her oppressors,
and, by regaining her ancient zeal for the faith,
be preserved from the apostacy
into which her enemies are seeking to drive her.
Prayer To St Casimir
All-powerful God,
to serve you is to reign:
by the prayers of Saint Casimir,
help us to serve you in holiness and justice.
Through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son,
who lives and reigns with you
in the unity of the Holy Spirit,
one God, forever and ever.
Amen.
Prayer in Honor of St. Casimir
Good and loving Father, in the youthful Saint Casimir, you have given us an example of faithfulness to the gospel and model of true discipleship. In his gentleness and compassion, we see true strength. In the strength and firmness of his convictions we see true gentleness. United in the name of Jesus and with the powerful support of our brother, St. Casimir, May we continue to be the visible sign of your loving presence among us.
Amen.
March 5th
Ash Wednesday
The first day of Lent, when ashes are blessed, and placed upon the heads of each of the people with the words, “Remember, man, that thou art dust, and unto dust thou shalt return.”
Whilst marking our foreheads with ashes the Church today says to us: “Remember, man, that thou art dust, and unto dust thou shalt return.” Yes, we are dust by our origin and our mortal destiny; and our present life would be dust did not the breath of faith enliven it at every moment. What makes the value of our existence is not the multiplicity of works or the number of years, all this is dust; but purity of intention and fervor of will. From these come true life, that which death will give instead of destroying.
A Prayer for Ash Wednesday:
Lord, Holy One, have mercy on us. We confess our sins to you. We have fallen short of your glory and without your mercy and grace, we would be dust. We repent now. Lord, as we enter into this Lenten season, be near to us. Help us, by your Holy Spirit, to feel right conviction and repentance for our sin. Help us, by your Spirit, to have the strength to overcome the enemy.
Thank you, Lord, that Easter is coming! Death has no sting, no victory, because of Jesus! Glory and honor and praise to His name! Thank you for rescuing us. Help us keep both the weight and the joy of this season in our hearts and we move through the next several weeks. Help us bear the good fruit of your Spirit.
Amen.
Ash Wednesday Prayer :
Gracious God, today begins a period of inner reflection and examination. The days stretch before me and invite me inward to that silent, holy space that holds your Spirit. This special time beckons me to see my life through Christ’s eyes and the truth and reality of your love incarnate. Give me the grace to enter the space of these days with anticipation of our meeting. And, when I open my soul to your presence, let your loving kindness flow over me and seep into the pockets of my heart. I ask this for the sake of your love.
Amen.
Ash Wednesday Prayer of reflection
Heavenly Father, during this time of reflection I remember how you lived the life I ought to have lived. You showed us how to resist temptation during your time in the desert, and through the life you led here on earth. As this Lent season begins, remind me that I am but dust. I can do nothing without you. Help me to see the world through the eyes of those in the first Lent season, who awaited a Savior and awaited new life through you. Thank you for your sacrifice on the cross, and as I refrain from [fill in the blank, for what you choose to give up for Lent] help me to use that time I would spend on
[fill in the blank item]
to pray, reflect, and thank you.
Amen.
A Prayer for Ash Wednesday
Compassionate and Holy God,
stir the dust of our lives and help us remember who we are.
Scatter this dust upon the field of our fear
and give us the courage to yield to redemption.
Ignite the ashes of our burned-out dreams and kindle life.
As we carefully place these ashes in the urn of our heart,
we yearn for sparks of new life.
Loving God,
as we paint our faces with these ashes,
You call us to turn away from sin but not from death.
You tempt us to look the face of death in the eye
as we embrace and remember life.
Merciful God,
as we carry the ash tattoo of the cross upon our foreheads,
kindle within us memories of your mercy.
Give us the courage to turn away from sin and return to You,
and so find our way to one another.
It is in this turning that we find our truth.
Amen.
A Prayer for Ash Wednesday
Merciful God, you called us forth from the dust of the earth; you claimed us for Christ in the waters of baptism. Look upon us as we enter these Forty Days bearing the mark of ashes, and bless the journey through the desert of Lent to the font of rebirth. As we remember our mortality and seek penitence today, we know you to be a God who is rich in forgiveness and abounding in steadfast love, love that culminates in eternal life with you. Guide our steps this Lent, so that we might find greater fulfillment in your promises and better serve others with a heart that’s reflective of you.
Amen.
A prayer for Ash Wednesday
Be with us Lord, keep us strong as we enter into the desert of Lent.
Our sins come forth as shadows across the landscape of our lives.
Today, we acknowledge our humanity and know that this marking of sign and symbol on our body is what calls us into further relationship with you, our God.
We accept the mark.
Made of earth-grown, harvested, blessed, burned, blessed, and placed on our bodies.
Be with us as we spend the next 40 days calling to mind simplicity in our thoughts and actions.
May all our actions, prayers, silence, and pauses call us into further relationship with you.
Amen.
Opening Catholic Collect for Ash Wednesday
Father in Heaven,
Protect us in our struggle against evil.
As we begin the discipline of Lent,
make this season holy by our self-denial.
Grant this through our Lord Jesus Christ
who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit
one God, forever and ever.
Amen.
COLLECT PRAYER
Grant, O Lord, that we may begin with holy fasting this campaign of Christian service, so that, as we take up battle against spiritual evils, we may be armed with weapons of self-restraint. Through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son, who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit, God, forever and ever.
Amen.
Litany of Penitence
Most holy and merciful Father:
We confess to you and to one another,
and to the whole communion of saints
in heaven and on earth,
that we have sinned by our own fault
in thought, word, and deed;
by what we have done, and by what we have left undone.
We have not loved you with our whole heart, and mind, and
strength. We have not loved our neighbors as ourselves. We
have not forgiven others, as we have been forgiven.
Have mercy on us, Lord.
We have been deaf to your call to serve, as Christ served us.
We have not been true to the mind of Christ. We have grieved
your Holy Spirit.
Have mercy on us, Lord.
We confess to you, Lord, all our past unfaithfulness: the
pride, hypocrisy, and impatience of our lives,
We confess to you, Lord..
Our self-indulgent appetites and ways, and our exploitation
of other people,
We confess to you, Lord.
Our anger at our own frustration, and our envy of those
more fortunate than ourselves,
We confess to you, Lord.
Our intemperate love of worldly goods and comforts, and
our dishonesty in daily life and work,
We confess to you, Lord.
Our negligence in prayer and worship, and our failure to
commend the faith that is in us,
We confess to you, Lord.
Accept our repentance, Lord, for the wrongs we have done:
for our blindness to human need and suffering, and our
indifference to injustice and cruelty,
Accept our repentance, Lord.
For all false judgments, for uncharitable thoughts toward our
neighbors, and for our prejudice and contempt toward those
who differ from us,
Accept our repentance, Lord.
For our waste and pollution of your creation, and our lack of
concern for those who come after us,
Accept our repentance, Lord.
Restore us, good Lord, and let your anger depart from us;
Favorably hear us, for your mercy is great.
Accomplish in us the work of your salvation,
That we may show forth your glory in the world.
By the cross and passion of your Son our Lord,
Bring us with all your saints to the joy of his resurrection.
Almighty God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who
desires not the death of sinners, but rather that they may turn
from their wickedness and live, has given power and
commandment to his ministers to declare and pronounce to
his people, being penitent, the absolution and remission of
their sins. He pardons and absolves all those who truly
repent, and with sincere hearts believe his holy Gospel.
Therefore we beseech him to grant us true repentance and his
Holy Spirit, that those things may please him which we do on
this day, and that the rest of our life hereafter may be pure
and holy, so that at the last we may come to his eternal joy;
through Jesus Christ our Lord.
Amen.
Prayer of Ash Wednesday
My penitential Lord, I give myself to You this Lent. I freely choose to enter into the desert of these 40 days and choose to pray, fast and give of myself to an extent I have never done before. I pray that this Lent will be a time in which I am transformed interiorly by You. Set me free, dear Lord, from all that keeps me from loving You and others with all my heart.
Jesus, I trust in You.
Amen.
March 5th
Saint John Joseph of the Cross
Saint John Joseph of the Cross Prayer
O Divine Lord, the holiness of Saint John Joseph of the Cross revealed itself in the gifts of prophecy, healing, ecstasies, levitating in prayer, and bi-location. Because of his reputation, his superiors put him in charge of establishing a new friary even before he was ordained. In awe of this responsibility, he humbly joined the labor crew and worked hard. I give to You my desire to be holy. Do not let me seek holiness for the sake of outstanding gifts, but help me to imitate Saint John Joseph’s example of service, cheerfully working hard to complete whatever responsibilities are assigned to me.
Saint John Joseph of the Cross, pray for me.
Amen.
St. John of the Cross Novena
Almighty Father, you endowed John of the Cross with a spirit of self-denial and a love of the Cross. By following his example, may we come to the eternal vision of your glory.
We ask this through our Lord Jesus Christ, Your Son, who lives and reigns with You and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever.
Amen.
(Mention your request here…)
St. John of the Cross, pray for us.
Say 1: Our Father…
Say 1: Hail Mary…
Say 1: Glory Be…
Prayer
Father, You raised Your servant Saint John Joseph of the Cross through the rugged way of poverty, humility and patience to heavenly glory. Grant us the grace to follow his example so as to share in eternal joy.
Amen.
March 7th
Saints Perpetua and Felicity
Sts Perpetua and Felicity Prayer
“Heavenly Father,
your love enabled the saints Perpetua and Felicity
courage to endure a cruel martyrdom.
By their prayers, help us to develop in love of you.
Through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son,
who lives and reigns with you
in the unity of the Holy Spirit,
one God, forever and ever.
Amen.”
“Blessed Saints Perpetua and Felicity, please watch over all mothers and children who are separated from each other because of war or persecution. Give special attention to mothers who are imprisoned and guide them to follow your example of faith and courage.
Amen.”
Novena Prayer
Saints Felicity and Perpetua, your martyrdom was an act of bravery, which moved the Christians of your age and continues to move us today. Give all who invoke your names similar courage, fortitude, and faith to overcome timidity in witnessing to Christ in difficult circumstances.
Amen
(Mention your request here…)
Our Father… Hail Mary… Glory Be…
Prayer from The Roman Missal
O God, at the urging of whose love
the Martyrs Saints Perpetua and Felicity
defied their persecutors and overcame the torment of death,
grant, we ask, by their prayers, that we may ever grow in your love.
Through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son,
who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit,
one God, forever and ever.
Amen.
March 8th
Saint John of God
Novena Prayer
Saint John of God, heavenly Patron of the Sick, I come to you in prayer to seek your help in my present sickness. Through the love which Jesus had for you in choosing you for the sublime vocation of serving the sick, and through the tender affection with which the Blessed Virgin Mary placed upon your head a crown of thorns as a symbol of the sufferings you would undergo in the service of the sick to attain to your crown of glory, I beg you to intercede for me to Jesus and Mary that They may grant me a cure, if this should be according to the Will of God. How patiently you bore the sufferings of your own disease! Teach me to carry with cheerful resignation the cross that God has given me. Let me never complain or lose courage. Help me to understand that suffering is a very important means of sanctifying my soul, of atoning for my many sins, and of reaping a plentiful harvest of merit for Heaven. I trust in your great love for the sick and in the power of your intercession to help them.
Help me, good St. John, and beg the God whose name you bear to touch me as He touched the sick while on earth, that through His almighty power health may return to my body. And as you derived strength in your own sufferings from the crucifix, so may I be able to say what you did to Jesus Crucified: “Lord, Thy thorns are my roses and Thy sufferings my paradise.” Good Saint John, lover of those who suffer and special Patron of the Sick, I confidently place before you my earnest petition.
(Mention your request here…)
I beg you to recommend my request to Mary, the Mother of Sorrows and Health of the Sick, that both Mary and you may present it to Jesus, the Divine Physician. Saint John of God, patron of the Sick and beloved of Jesus and Mary, pray to Them for me and obtain my request.
(Three times.)
Saint John of God, Patron of the Sick, pray for us.
Our Father… Hail Mary… Glory Be…
Prayer to St. John of God
Saint John of God,
I honor you as the Patron of the Sick,
especially of those who are afflicted by heart disease.
I choose you to be my patron and protector in my
present illness.
To you I entrust my soul, my body, all my spiritual
and temporal interests, as well as those of the
sick throughout the world.
To you I consecrate my mind,
that in all things it may be enlightened by faith
above all in accepting my Cross as a blessing
from God; my heart, that you keep it pure and
fill it with the love for Jesus and Mary that
burned in your heart; my will, like yours,
it may always be one with the Will of God.
Amen.
Prayer To St. John Of God – 01:
St. John of God,
patron of the sick and compassionate Brother
to all who suffer or are troubled in any way,
I turn to you with great confidence in my time of need.
I ask you John to speak to Jesus on my behalf.
He will listen to you because you tried to be like Him
in the compassion and love you had for people in need.
I know only Jesus can really help me,
but I also know that He can be influenced by someone close to Him,
I plead with you Brother John
to present this special intention of mine to Jesus
so that He may grant it, according to His will ……
(Mention the intention)
Help me John to strengthen my faith, my hope and love
for Jesus and our Mother Mary
for whom you had such a special love.
All glory to the Father, Son and the Holy Spirit.
Amen.
Prayer To St. John Of God – 02:
O glorious Saint,
full of tenderness and compassion for the afflicted,
who, as a reward for your charity
merited to minister to Jesus Christ under the appearance of a patient,
obtain for us the grace to ever see Jesus Christ Himself
in the person of our neighbor,
so that we may be found worthy
to receive the eternal bliss promised
to those who serve the Divine Master
in the person of the sick, the poor and the needy.
Amen.
March 9th
Saint Frances of Rome
Prayer To Saint Frances Of Rome
Merciful Father,
in Frances of Rome
you have given us
a unique example of love in marriage
as well as in religious life.
Keep us faithful in your service,
and help us to see and follow you
in all the aspects of life.
Through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son,
who lives and reigns with you
in the unity of the Holy Spirit,
one God, forever and ever.
Amen.
Prayer
O God, who have given us in Saint Frances of Rome a singular model of both married and monastic life, grant us perseverance in your service, that in every circumstance of life we may see and follow you. Through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son, who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit, God, forever and ever.
Amen.
Prayer to St. Frances of Rome (Can be said as a Novena for 9 Consecutive Days)
Bright jewel of the Order of Saint Benedict, illustrious Saint Frances of Rome, thou who wast led by divine Providence through various stations in life, that thou mightest be a pattern of every virtue, to maidens, to matrons and to widows, pray for us to our divine Savior that we may be detached from the vanities of the world and may be able, under the guiding hand of our Guardian Angel, to grow daily in the love of God, of His Church and of our neighbor, and finally to be made partakers in heaven of the Felicity.
Amen.
Prayer
O Frances! sublime model of every virtue! thou wast the glory of Christian Rome, and the ornament of thy sex. How insignificant are the pagan heroines of old compared with thee! Thy fidelity to the duties of thy state, and all thy saintly actions, had God for their one single end and motive. The world looked on thee with amazement, as though heaven had lent one of its Angels to this earth. Humility and penance put such energy into thy soul, that every trial was met and mastered. Thy love for those whom God Himself had given thee, thy calm resignation and interior joy under tribulation, thy simple and generous charity, to every neighbour,–all was evidence of God’s dwelling within thy soul. Thy seeing and conversing with thy Angel Guardian, and the wonderful revelations granted thee of the secrets of the other world, –how much these Favours tell us of thy merits? Nature suspended her laws at thy bidding; she was subservient to thee, as to one that was already face to face with the Sovereign Master, and had the power to command. We admire these privileges and gifts granted thee by our Lord; and now beseech thee to have pity on us, who are so far from being in that path, in which thou didst so perseveringly walk.
Pray for us, that we may be Christians, practically and earnestly; that we may cease to love the world and its vanities; that we may courageously take up the yoke of our Lord, and do penance; that we may give up our pride; that we may be patient and firm under temptation. Such was thy influence with our Heavenly Father, that thou hadst but to pray, and a vine produced the richest clusters of fruit, even in the midst of winter. Our Jesus calls Himself the True Vine; ask Him to give us of the wine of His divine love, which His Cross has so richly prepared for us. When we remember how frequently thou didst ask Him to let thee suffer, and accept thy sufferings for poor sinners, we feel encouraged to ask thee to offer thy merits to Him for us. Pray, too, for Rome, thy native city, that her people may be staunch to the faith, edifying by holiness of life, and loyal to the Church. May thy powerful intercession bring blessings on the Faithful throughout the world, add to their number, and make them fervent as were our fathers of old.
March 11th
Saint John Ogilvie
Novena Prayer in Honor of St. John Ogilvie
God our Father, fountain of all blessing, We thank you for the countless graces that come to us in answer to the prayers of your saints. With great confidence we ask you in the name of your Son and through the prayers of St John Ogilvie to help us in all our needs.
Lord Jesus, you chose your servant St John Ogilvie to be your faithful witness to the spiritual authority of the chief shepherd of your flock. Keep your people always one in mind and heart, In communion with Benedict our Pope, and all the bishops of your Church.
Holy Spirit, you gave St John Ogilvie light to know your truth, wisdom to defend it, and courage to die for it. Through his prayers and example bring our country into the unity and peace of Christ’s kingdom.
Amen.
Prayer To St John Ogilvie
Almighty and eternal God,
you gave to St John Ogilvie
wisdom in defending the Catholic faith
and courage in facing a martyr’s death:
listen to our prayers,
and send us an ever-greater harvest
of faith, hope and love.
Through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son,
who lives and reigns with you
in the unity of the Holy Spirit,
one God, forever and ever.
Amen.
Prayer
Lord, teach me to look for you
and when I look show yourself to me.
Without your help I will falter through life,
blind to the many things you do for me,
missing out on the opportunities you lay before me.
Like St. John Ogilvie who did not falter as he went to his death,
Grant me the confidence and courage
To stand up for what I believe in
And the compassion to forgive those who hurt me.
Saint John Ogilvie, pray for us.
Prayer to St. John Ogilvie
God we thank You for all Your gifts to us.
Especially for the precious gift of our Catholic faith.
Grant that our country may be united once again
in the unity of the Catholic Church.
May the prayers of St John Ogilvie
obtain for us the blessings
that we ask through Christ our Lord.
Saint John Ogilvie, pray for us
Prayer over the gifts
Lord, you fill our hearts with love as we recall the suffering and death of Saint John, your martyr. Grant that there may be in us the mind that was in Christ Jesus, so that in this sacrifice we may worthily proclaim the death of your only Son, who lives and reigns forever and ever.
Amen.
March 12th
Blessed Angela Salawa
Blessed Angela Salawa of Cracow, Secular Franciscan
Almighty God, You teach us that the commandments of heaven are
summarized in love for you and our neighbor. Following the example of Blessed
Angela Salawa’s selflessness, may we be among the blessed in Your Kingdom.
This we ask through Christ, our Lord.
Amen
Asking for the intercession of Blessed Angela Salawa
Triune God, I give you glory, praise and love for all the graces, which You willed to bestow upon Blessed Angela Salawa, and I beg You, if it is according to Your will, grant that through her intercession You grant me the grace of ….. of which I humbly beg. Look upon the spirit of sacrifice and dedication Your servant, Blessed Angela Salawa, had for others and allow her to be my advocate before Thy throne in Heaven. Through Christ our Lord. Amen.
March 13th
Saint Leander of Seville
Prayer
Almighty God, we believe that the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit are consubstantial, three Person’s in one Essence, one Divinity. This is the one, true faith, which is prophetic, evangelical and apostolic.
Saint Leander of Seville maintained this Creed, introducing it as the Nicene Creed to reinforce the faith of his people, and as an antidote against the heresy of the Arians who denied this Divinity.
Help us to propagate this Truth, just as your saint Leander of Seville did. In Jesus’ Name.
Amen.
Prayer to St. Leander of Seville
Lord God, who graciously imbued blessed Leander with heavenly doctrine, grant, through his intercession, that we may keep that same teaching faithfully and express it in what we do. Through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son, who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, forever and ever.
Amen.
March 14th
Saint Louise de Marillac
St. Louise Prayer
Loving and compassionate God, we celebrate with great joy the faith and works of our patroness St. Louise de Marillac. Instill in us the fire of her love, the tenacity of her belief, and the tenderness of her care for the most abandoned. Draw us together into the light of your presence and help us to trust in the power of your Spirit, leading us to ever closer to you, who live and reign forever and ever.
Amen.
Prayer
O God, through Louise, you taught us a deeper love and respect for those whom the world oppresses and so we pray: -help us to serve them with respect and dignity.
Christ Jesus, you inspired the daughters of Louise to be women of compassion and empathy in their service to the poor;
-help us to grow in mercy and understanding.
Loving Creator, we thank you for the example of untiring collaboration of Louise in giving flesh to the works of charity we aspire to emulate today;
-may we follow her example in our service to the Church and the world.
Louise transformed adversity into positive energy for the service of the poor.
-help us to see with the eyes of faith and the mind of Jesus.
Loving God, through the intercession of Louise, inspire more laborers to come to the vineyard to mirror the gospel values of justice and love that Louise mirrored in her life;
-may our lives and our service give you glory and praise.
May the God of Louise de Marillac be with us more and more each day, drawing us into ever deep union with the Holy One, quickening our hearts’ desire for love and sharpening our awareness of all that the world suffers. As the Charity of Christ impelled her, may we be moved with urgency to be women of the charism— witness and vision, justice and truth, passion and peace. May our response to the challenges our God and our world place before us reflect Louise’s vision of loving service and may the Charity of Christ impel us. May the blessing of Louise be upon us!
Amen.
Novena To Saint Louise De Marillac
O Gracious God,
Saint Louise devoted her life
to helping Saint Vincent de Paul
serve the needs of the poor.
She often taught:
“Be diligent in serving the poor. Love the poor,
honor them, as you would honor Christ Himself.”
I lift up to You the programs in my church
and community that help the needy,
and the people who do the work.
Multiply the donations.
Teach me how to think generously.
Give me a heart that desires to care for the poor
as if I were serving Jesus directly,
and help me to see Jesus in each person
that begs on the street corner or church door.
Saint Louise, pray for us.
Amen.
[Mention your request here…]
Our Father… Hail Mary… Glory Be…
March 16th
Saint Clement Mary Hofbauer
Prayer for Preservation of the Catholic Faith of St. Clement Hofbauer
O My Redeemer, will that terrible moment ever come when but few shall be left who are inspired by the Spirit of Faith, that moment when Thine indignation shall be provoked and Thy protection shall be taken from us? Have our vices and our evil lives irrevocably moved Thy justice to take vengeance, perhaps this very day, upon Thy children?
We beg Thee, the Beginning and the End of faith, with contrite hearts, not to let the light of faith be extinguished in souls. Remember Thy mercies of old, turn Thine eyes in compassion upon the vineyard planted by Thine own right hand, and watered by the tears of the Apostles, by the precious blood of countless martyrs, and made fruitful by the prayers of so many Confessors and innocent Virgins. O Divine Mediator, look upon those zealous souls who raise their hearts to Thee and pray without ceasing for the maintenance of that most precious gift of Thee, the True Faith.
Keep us safe in the True Catholic and Roman Faith. Preserve us in Thy Holy Faith, for if we are rich with this precious gift, we shall gladly endure every sorrow and nothing shall ever be able to change our happiness. Without this great treasure of faith, our unhappiness would be unspeakable and without limit.
O Good Jesus, Author of our faith, preserve it pure within us; keep us safe in the barque of Peter, faithful and obedient to his successor, and Thy Vicar here on earth, so that the unity of the Holy Church may be maintained, holiness fostered, the Holy See protected in freedom, and the Church universal extended to the benefit of souls.
O Jesus, Author of our faith, humble and convert the enemies of Thy Church; grant true peace and concord to all believers; strengthen and preserve us in Thy holy service to the end, that we may live with Thee and die in Thee. O Jesus, Author of our faith, let me live for Thee and die for Thee.
Amen.
Prayers In Honor Of Saint Clement Maria Hofbauer
I. O Saint Clement, most faithful disciple of Jesus, our Redeemer, from thy tenderest infancy thou didst regard only holy Catholic Faith as thy only treasure, and wast solicitous to strengthen it in the hearts of the faithful with wonderful zeal, and to make it known among men. Obtain for us the grace to imitate thy example and to learn to esteem the precious gift of the true Faith above every other gift. Teach us to conform our actions to its holy maxims, so that, placing in the practice of Faith all our glory, we may exultingly repeat thy own words;
We confess, we are sinners, and devoid of every virtue, but we glory in the fact that we are children of Holy Catholic Church”.
II. O Saint Clement, most constant disciple of Jesus, our Redeemer, mistrusting thyself and placing no reliance in the aid and counsels of men, thou didst repose all thy confidence in God alone. Strengthened by this firm hope, thou didst despite all the goods, pleasures and honors of the world, fixing thy eyes on Heaven, where joys are eternal and goods are imperishable. Obtain for us the grace to follow thy example by detaching ourselves from the things of this earth. Teach us to direct all our affections towards Heaven, confidently hoping from God, by means of holy prayer, the assistance necessary to effect this; mindful of the grand maxim which thou didst repeat from thy earliest years;
“We must devote to prayer the time that remains after the discharge of the duties of our state of life.”
Our Father, Hail Mary, Glory be, etc.
III. Saint Clement, most loving disciple of Jesus, our Redeemer, animated by the most ardent charity, thou didst live for God alone, and didst make thyself all to all to gain all for Jesus Christ. Persecutions and dangers, temptations and sufferings, were not able to diminish thy charity. Obtain for us, we implore thee, at least a spark of thy most burning love for God and our neighbor. Aid us by thy prayers to be so united in harmony and charity that we may always love our most loving Redeemer, Jesus Christ and His Immaculate Mother, follow Him steadfastly until death, and finally praise and bless Him all eternity.
Our Father, Hail Mary, Glory be, etc.
V. Pray for us, O Saint Clement.
R. That we may be made worthy of the promises of Christ.
Let us pray
(Prayer of the Church.)
O God, Who didst adorn the Blessed Clement with wonderful strength of faith and with the virtue of constancy, through his merits and example, make us, we beseech Thee, so steadfast in faith and burning with charity, that we may obtain the eternal rewards. Through Christ, our Lord,
Amen.
Prayer To Saint Clement Mary Hofbauer
Gracious God,
our God of care and compassion for humanity,
you filled St. Clement Mary Hofbauer
with a special zeal for the well-being of people,
especially those who are poor or troubled in spirit.
In St. Clement you revealed the richness
of your loving kindness and mercy.
Through his intercession,
help us to remain true to the Catholic faith,
which he so nobly taught.
Let us walk in the path that
St. Clement marked out by his own life.
Hear and answer us, God,
through Christ our Lord.
Amen.
Novena To Saint Clement Mary Hofbauer
Repeat the following Novena prayers every day for 9 consecutive days.
Holy Clement Mary Hofbauer,
you who can be called patron of hopeless cases,
because all your life
you had to fight the most difficult situations
and you know by experience
what it means to be sorely tried here on earth.
I beseech you,
help us by your mighty power with God
in these difficult circumstances
that
(name or circumstance)
may be helped.
Answer us speedily if this is good for our salvation.
Amen.
Say 3: Hail Mary…
March 17th
Saint Patrick
The Prayer of St. Patrick
I arise today
Through a mighty strength, the invocation of the Trinity,
Through a belief in the Threeness,
Through confession of the Oneness
Of the Creator of creation.
I arise today
Through the strength of Christ’s birth and His baptism,
Through the strength of His crucifixion and His burial,
Through the strength of His resurrection and His ascension,
Through the strength of His descent for the judgment of doom.
I arise today
Through the strength of the love of cherubim,
In obedience of angels,
In service of archangels,
In the hope of resurrection to meet with reward,
In the prayers of patriarchs,
In preaching of the apostles,
In faiths of confessors,
In innocence of virgins,
In deeds of righteous men.
I arise today
Through the strength of heaven;
Light of the sun,
Splendor of fire,
Speed of lightning,
Swiftness of the wind,
Depth of the sea,
Stability of the earth,
Firmness of the rock.
I arise today
Through God’s strength to pilot me;
God’s might to uphold me,
God’s wisdom to guide me,
God’s eye to look before me,
God’s ear to hear me,
God’s word to speak for me,
God’s hand to guard me,
God’s way to lie before me,
God’s shield to protect me,
God’s hosts to save me
From snares of the devil,
From temptations of vices,
From everyone who desires me ill,
Afar and anear,
Alone or in a multitude.
I summon today all these powers between me and evil,
Against every cruel merciless power that opposes my body and soul,
Against incantations of false prophets,
Against black laws of pagandom,
Against false laws of heretics,
Against craft of idolatry,
Against spells of women and smiths and wizards,
Against every knowledge that corrupts man’s body and soul.
Christ shield me today
Against poison, against burning,
Against drowning, against wounding,
So that reward may come to me in abundance.
Christ with me, Christ before me, Christ behind me,
Christ in me, Christ beneath me, Christ above me,
Christ on my right, Christ on my left,
Christ when I lie down, Christ when I sit down,
Christ in the heart of every man who thinks of me,
Christ in the mouth of every man who speaks of me,
Christ in the eye that sees me,
Christ in the ear that hears me.
[Note that people sometimes pray a shorter version of this prayer just with these 15 lines about Christ above. The conclusion follows below.]
I arise today
Through a mighty strength, the invocation of the Trinity,
Through a belief in the Threeness,
Through a confession of the Oneness
Of the Creator of creation.
St Patrick’s Breastplate
Christ be with me, Christ within me
Christ behind me, Christ before me
Christ beside me, Christ to win me
Christ to comfort me and restore me.
Christ beneath me, Christ above me
Christ in quiet, Christ in danger
Christ in hearts of all that love me
Christ in mouth of friend or stranger.
St. Patrick’s Prayer
May the Strength of God pilot us.
May the Power of God preserve us.
May the Wisdom of God instruct us.
May the Hand of God protect us.
May the Way of God direct us.
May the Shield of God defend us.
May the Host of God guard us
Against the snares of the evil ones,
Against temptations of the world.
May Christ be with us!
May Christ be before us!
May Christ be in us,
Christ be over all!
May Thy Salvation, Lord,
Always be ours,
This day, O Lord, and evermore.
Amen.
Prayer to St. Patrick, Patron Saint of Ireland
Dear St. Patrick,
in your humility, you called yourself a sinner,
but you became a most successful missionary
and prompted countless pagans
to follow the Savior.
Many of their descendants in turn
spread the Good News in numerous foreign lands.
Through your powerful intercession with God,
obtain the missionaries we need
to continue the work you began.
Amen.
Hail, Glorious St. Patrick
Hail, glorious St. Patrick!
we, honor your name,
Tho’ Erin may claim you,
the world knows your fame.
The faith of our fathers is our
treasure too,
How holy the thought,
that they learned it from you.
Thru crosses and trials its fires
burn bright,
They show us the way,
and the truth, and the light,
Great Saint!
Intercede, that we always may be
devoted and loyal,
true children of yours.
Our love and devotion
be ever like yours,
Our thought be of Jesus,
our heart be His shrine.
And when to the end of life’s path
we have trod,
Be near us great Bishop,
Anointed of God.
An Irish Blessing
May the road
rise to meet
you, May the
wind be always at
your back, May the
sun shine warm upon
your face, the rains
fall soft upon your
fields and, until we
meet again may
God hold you in the
palm of his hand.
Prayer to Saint Patrick
O great Apostle of Ireland, glorious
St. Patrick, to whom under God, so
many are indebted for the most
precious of all treasures, the great gift
of Faith, receive our fervent thanks
for the zeal and charity which have
been to thousands the source of
blessings so invaluable. Ask for all
who dwell in this land and the land of
thy labors, the precious light of Faith,
and beg for us on whom its glorious
rays have long since beamed, the grace
to regulate our lives by its sacred maxims.
Amen.
March 18th
Saint Cyril of Jerusalem
Prayer to St. Cyril of Jerusalem
Father through Cyril of Jerusalem
You led Your Church to a deeper understanding
of the mysteries of salvation
Let his prayers help us to know Your Son better
and to have eternal life in all its fullness.
Through our Lord Jesus Christ, Your Son,
who lives and reigns with You
in the unity of the Holy Spirit
on God forever and ever.
Amen.
Novena Prayer
Strengthen, O God, your Church in the sacraments of your grace, that we, in union with the teaching and prayers of your servant Cyril of Jerusalem, may enter more fully into your Paschal mystery, through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever.
Amen
(Mention your request here…)
St. Cyril of Jerusalem, pray for us
Our Father… Hail Mary… Glory Be…
March 20th
Saint Joseph, Husband of Mary
Novena Prayer to St Joseph
O St Joseph, whose protection is so great, so strong,
so prompt before the throne of God,
I place in you all my interests and desires.
O St Joseph, do assist me by your powerful intercession,
and obtain for me from your divine Son
all spiritual blessings, through Jesus Christ, our Lord.
So that, having engaged here below your heavenly power,
I may offer my thanksgiving and homage
to the most Loving of Fathers.
O St Joseph, I never weary of contemplating you,
and Jesus asleep in your arms;
I dare not approach while He reposes near your heart.
Press Him in my name and kiss His fine head for me
and ask Him to return the kiss when I draw my dying breath.
St Joseph, Patron of departed souls, pray for me.
Memorare to St. Joseph
Remember, O most pure spouse of the Blessed Virgin Mary, my great protector, Saint Joseph, that no one ever had recourse to your protection, or implored your aid without obtaining relief. Confiding therefore in your goodness, I come before you. Do not turn down my petitions, foster father of the Redeemer, but graciously receive them.
Amen.
Prayer to St Joseph – the worker by Pope St Pius X
Glorious St. Joseph, model of all who are devoted to labour,
obtain for me the grace to work in the spirit of penance in expiation of my many sins;
to work conscientiously by placing love of duty above my inclinations;
to gratefully and joyously deem it an honour to employ and to develop by labour the gifts I have received from God,
to work methodically, peacefully,
and in moderation and patience,
without ever shrinking from it through weariness or difficulty to work;
above all, with purity of intention and unselfishness,
having unceasingly before my eyes death
and the account I have to render of time lost, talents unused,
good not done, and vain complacency in success,
so baneful to the work of God.
All for Jesus, all for Mary, all to imitate thee, O patriarch St. Joseph!
This shall be my motto for life and eternity.
Prayer to St Joseph for a Happy Death
O Blessed Joseph,
you gave your last breath
in the loving embrace of Jesus and Mary.
When the seal of death shall close my life,
come with Jesus and Mary to aid me.
Obtain for me this solace for that hour
to die with their holy arms around me.
Jesus, Mary and Joseph, I commend my soul,
living and dying, into your sacred arms.
Amen.
Prayer to Saint Joseph
Blessed Joseph, husband of Mary,
be with us this day.
You protected and cherished the Virgin;
loving the Child Jesus as your Son,
you rescued Him from the danger of death.
Defend the Church,
the household of God,
purchased by the Blood of Christ.
Guardian of the Holy Family,
be with us in our trials.
May your prayers obtain for us
the strength to flee from error
and wrestle with the powers of corruption
so that in life we may grow in holiness
and in death rejoice in the crown of victory.
Amen.
Prayer to St Joseph for our family
Gracious St Joseph, protect my family and all other families from danger, as you did protect the baby Jesus and His mother from the wrath of king Herod.
Pray for us, that we respect, love and care for each other in our family as you were with Mary and Jesus. Help us to be understanding and forgiving towards each other.
Most of all St Joseph, bring us closer to Jesus. St Joseph, please pray for our family.
Amen.
Litany of Saint Joseph
Lord, Have mercy on us.
Christ Have mercy on us.
Lord, Have mercy on us.
Christ, hear us.
Christ, graciously hear us.
God the Father of Heaven, Have mercy on us.
God the Son, Redeemer of the world, Have mercy on us.
God the Holy Spirit, Have mercy on us.
Holy Trinity, One God, Have mercy on us.
Holy Mary, Have mercy on us.
Saint Joseph, Have mercy on us.
Illustrious son of David, Have mercy on us.
Light of the patriarchs, Have mercy on us.
Spouse of the Mother of God, Have mercy on us.
Chaste guardian of the Virgin, Have mercy on us.
Foster father of the Son of God, Have mercy on us.
Watchful defender of Christ, Have mercy on us.
Head of the Holy Family, Have mercy on us.
Joseph most just, Have mercy on us.
Joseph most chaste, Have mercy on us.
Joseph most prudent, Have mercy on us.
Joseph most valiant, Have mercy on us.
Joseph most obedient, Have mercy on us.
Joseph most faithful, Have mercy on us.
Mirror of Patience, Have mercy on us.
Lover of poverty, Have mercy on us.
Model of workmen, Have mercy on us.
Glory of domestic life, Have mercy on us.
Guardian of virgins, Have mercy on us.
Solace of the afflicted, Have mercy on us.
Hope of the sick, Have mercy on us.
Patron of the dying, Have mercy on us.
Terror of demons, Have mercy on us.
Protector of Holy Church, Have mercy on us.
Lamb of God, Who takes away the sins of the world, Spare us, O Lord.
Lamb of God, Who takes away the sins of the world, graciously hear us, O Lord.
Lamb of God, Who takes away the sins of the world, Have mercy on us.
He made him the lord of His household, And prince of all His possessions.
Let Us Pray
O God, in your ineffable providence you were pleased to choose Blessed Joseph to be the spouse of your most Holy Mother, grant, we beg you, that we may be worthy to have him for our intercessor in heaven whom, on earth, we venerate as our protector: You who live and reign forever and ever.
Amen.
Saint Joseph, Pray for Us!
March 21st
Blessed John of Parma
Let us pray
Lord God, one of our most powerful tools of evangelization and peacebuilding in our world is our language. Finding a way to foster reconciliation
and not alienation, finding a way for acceptance and not rejection, finding a
way to offer an invitation and not an act of exclusion, these are our
commitments. Through the intercession of Blessed John of Parma may we be
blessed with words of reconciliation, acceptance and invitation. We ask this
through Christ, the Word made flesh, who lives with you and Spirit, God
forever and ever.
Amen.
Blessed John of Parma is a Friend of God we welcome today.
March 22nd
Saint Nicholas Owen
A Prayer of Impetration to Saint Nicholas
Glorious St. Nicholas, my special patron, from thy throne in glory, where thou dost enjoy the presence of God, turn thine eyes in pity upon me and obtain for me from our Lord the graces and helps that I need in my spiritual and temporal necessities (and especially this favor
[mention your request]
provided that it be profitable to my salvation). Be mindful, likewise, O glorious and saintly Bishop, of our Sovereign Pontiff, of Holy Church, and of all Christian people. Bring back to the right way of salvation all those who are living steeped in sin and blinded by the darkness of ignorance, error, and heresy. Comfort the afflicted, provide for the needy, strengthen the fearful, defend the oppressed, give health to the infirm; cause all men to experience the effects of thy powerful intercession with the supreme Giver of every good and perfect gift.
Amen.
Our Father, Hail Mary, Glory be
V. Pray for us, O blessed Nicholas.
R. That we may be made worthy of the promises of Christ.
Let us pray
O God, who has glorified blessed Nicholas, Thine illustrious Confessor and Bishop, by means of countless signs and wonders, and who dost not cease daily so to glorify him; grant, we beseech Thee, that we, being assisted by his merits and prayers, may be delivered from the fires of hell and from all dangers. Through Christ our Lord.
Amen.
March 23rd
Saint Turibius of Mogrovejo
Novena To Saint Turibius De Mogrovejo
O God, who gave increase to Your Church
through the apostolic labours and zeal for truth
of the Bishop Saint Turibius,
grant that the people consecrated to You
may always receive new growth
in faith and holiness.
Through our Lord Jesus Christ, Your Son,
who lives and reigns with You
in the unity of the Holy Spirit,
one God, forever and ever.
[Mention your intention here…]
Say 1: Our Father…
Say 1: Hail Mary…
Say 1: Glory Be…
Saint Turibius that we will use our abilities fully, to share the teachings of Jesus with others., pray for us
Saint Turibius, Pray for us.
Saint Turibius, Pray for us.
Collect Prayer
Lord, though the apostolic work of St. Turibius and his unwavering love of truth, you helped your Church to grow. May your chosen people continue to grow in faith and holiness. Grant this through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, God, forever and ever.
Amen.
March 24th
Saint Oscar Arnulfo Romero
A Prayer Of Oscar Romero
It helps, now and then, to step back and take a long view.
The Kingdom is not only beyond our efforts,
it is even beyond our vision.
We accomplish in our lifetime only a tiny fraction
of the magnificent enterprise that is God’s work.
Nothing we do is complete,
which is a way of saying that the Kingdom always lies beyond us.
No statement says all that could be said.
No prayer fully expresses our faith.
No confession brings perfection.
No pastoral visit brings wholeness.
No program accomplishes the Church’s mission.
No set of goals and objectives includes everything.
This is what we are about.
We plant the seeds that one day will grow.
We water seeds already planted,
knowing that they hold future promise.
We lay foundations that will need further development.
We provide yeast that produces effects far beyond our capabilities.
We cannot do everything,
and there is a sense of liberation in realizing that.
This enables us to do something,
and to do it very well.
It may be incomplete, but it is a beginning, a step along the way,
an opportunity for the Lord’s grace to enter and do the rest.
We may never see the end results,
but that is the difference between the master builder and the worker.
We are workers, not master builders;
ministers, not messiahs.
We are prophets of a future that is not our own.
Amen.
Novena to Blessed Romero
Act Of Love To God
I believe faithfully and truly in the Mystery of the Holy Trinity, Father, Son and Holy Spirit, three distinct persons and one true God, in whom I firmly trust to obtain the perfection of the pain of having offended His Most Holy Majesty, through the merits of My Lord Jesus Christ, those of His Blessed Mother and those of my glorious advocate Blessed Oscar Romero; I entreat the Lord to always preserve in me this living faith, to grant me the forgiveness of my sins, provide for my needs, and for what I ask in this Novena, if it is for His honor and for the good of my soul. If not, may I live obediently in His holy will, as that which suits me best.
Amen.
Preparatory Prayer For Each Day
Glorious Blessed Oscar Romero, we turn to you, confident of your intercession. We are drawn to you with a special devotion and we know that our supplications will be more pleasing to God our Lord, if you, who are so beloved of Him, present them to Him. Your charity, an admirable reflection of God’s own, compels you to succor all misery, to console all sorrow and to gratify all desires and needs, if it is to be of benefit to our souls. Look, then, upon our miseries and sorrows, our labors and needs, our good desires, and help us to assure ourselves more and more of our eternal salvation with the practice of good works and the imitation of your virtues. And, in particular, we ask you to obtain for us from God the special grace that, by this devout Novena, we confidently hope to attain.
Amen.
Final Prayer For Each Day
God the Father of all men and women, who has given us in your Martyr Bishop Oscar Romero, a faithful and zealous Pastor, demonstrating a fervent love of your Church and in her in a special way, the poor and the needy, grant that we may know how to live according to the Gospel. Through Jesus Christ, our Lord.
Amen.
First Day
Begin with the preparatory prayer for each day.
By the generosity with which your Bishop Oscar Romero responded to God’s call, recognizing the will of God with living faith always and in everything, I entreat you, in addition to the particular grace of this Novena, to grant me to be always faithful to your commands with a readiness and generosity similar to his, so that the faith received at Baptism will continuously grow and mature in my soul.
Amen.
Speak your petition(s) …
Our Father, Hail Mary and Glory.
Conclude with the final prayer for each day.
Second Day
Begin with the preparatory prayer for each day.
O Lord, who always hears the pleas of your saints; today we address you through the Glorious Martyr Oscar Romero to ask you with faith and confidence for all the needs of Our Mother Church, that she may ever hold fast in the fulfillment of your will. Also, Lord, we pray for the sick who invoke in faith the name of your Glorious Martyr Oscar Romero.
Speak your petition(s) …
Our Father, Hail Mary and Glory.
Conclude with the final prayer for each day.
Third Day
Begin with the preparatory prayer for each day.
By the unyielding hope that your Martyr Bishop Oscar Romero persevered in throughout his life, trusting fully in your paternal providence, I humbly implore you, in addition to the particular grace of this Novena, to grant me never to lose heart before the adversities of life, but rather, animated by the hope of Heaven, to live always confident of your merciful love.
Amen.
Speak your petition(s) …
Our Father, Hail Mary and Glory.
Conclude with the final prayer for each day.
Fourth Day
Begin with the preparatory prayer for each day.
By the burning charity that your Martyr Bishop Oscar Romero felt toward the poorest of the poor, I beseech you grant me the particular grace of this Novena, and that my heart may be inflamed, more and more every day, by the divine love that burns in you, and in which you long to see all men and women consumed and purified.
Amen.
Speak your petition(s) …
Our Father, Hail Mary and Glory.
Conclude with the final prayer for each day.
Fifth Day
Begin with the preparatory prayer for each day.
By that inextinguishable zeal that consumed the soul of your Martyr Bishop Oscar Romero in favor of the spiritual and temporal good of his beloved flock, to the point of sacrificing his life for them, I humbly pray that in addition to the particular grace of this Novena, you grant that I be more concerned for my spiritual welfare and the salvation of others.
Amen.
Speak your petition(s) …
Our Father, Hail Mary and Glory.
Conclude with the final prayer for each day.
Sixth Day
Begin with the preparatory prayer for each day.
By the love of work that characterized your Martyr Bishop Oscar Romero in all his tasks, however ordinary and tedious they might be, I humbly beg you, Lord, that besides the particular grace of this Novena, that you grant me a great spirit of faith, to see in the use of the present moment the most effective means of seeking the glory of God, the salvation of souls and my own sanctification.
Amen.
Speak your petition(s) …
Our Father, Hail Mary and Glory.
Conclude with the final prayer for each day.
Seventh Day
Begin with the preparatory prayer for each day.
By the admirable faithfulness and strength with which your Martyr Bishop Oscar Romero bore, first vicariously through the others and then in his own body, the horrible contempt of his own kind, in addition to the suffering of isolation and impotence to overcome the evil around him, I beg you humbly that in addition to the particular grace of this Novena, you may grant me to accept with my eyes fixed on you, my God, the sorrows and troubles of life.
Amen.
Speak your petition(s) …
Our Father, Hail Mary and Glory.
Conclude with the final prayer for each day.
Eighth Day
Begin with the preparatory prayer for each day.
By that pious devotion that your Martyr Bishop Oscar Romero always professed to the Blessed Virgin, I ardently beseech you that besides the particular grace of this Novena, you may grant me to conduct myself, always and in everything, as your loving son, in order to merit one day the joy one day of being presented by Her in your Celestial Court, to enjoy your company forever in Heaven. Amen.
Speak your petition(s) …
Our Father, Hail Mary and Glory.
Conclude with the final prayer for each day.
Ninth Day
Begin with the preparatory prayer for each day.
By that fervent love that your Martyr Bishop Oscar Romero professed for the Holy Eucharist, as the nourishment of his soul in his Masses and Communions, and as the solace of his spirit in his fervent adorations before the Sacred Tabernacle, I beg you, in addition to the special grace of this Novena, grant me that may I grow more and more devoted to the Blessed Sacrament, and to prepare my heart every day to better receive it as to gain the maximum profit.
Amen.
Speak your petition(s) …
Our Father, Hail Mary and Glory.
Conclude with the final prayer for each day
Novena To Saint Oscar Romero (Bishop & Martyr)
Lord Jesus Christ, we come to you
through the intercession of your Saint and Martyr, Oscar Romero.
Your grace has made him a living example
of your justice and compassion.
He came to know that to all who come to you for your help,
you show your compassion and healing power.
You are closest to us when we are weakest
and most in need of your help.
You ask us to be close to each other,
especially the poorest, as Oscar was.
I ask you now to listen to my prayer during this Novena,
and grant what I ask.
(Short period of silence to present your Novena intention, said inwardly to Jesus…)
If what I ask is not for my own or others’ good,
grant me always what is best,
that I may build your kingdom of love in our world.
Blessed Oscar, pray for us.
Most Sacred Heart of Jesus, have mercy on us.
Saint Oscar Romero, pray for us
O Lord Father of Mercy, who through Jesus Christ and the intercession of the Virgin Mary, Queen of Peace, and the action of the Holy Spirit, has bestowed on Saint Oscar Romero the grace of being an exemplary shepherd at the service of the Church, especially giving preference to the poor and needy.
Grant, Lord, that I may also learn to live according to the gospel of your Son, glorify your Saint Oscar Romero and concede, through his intercession, the favour I ask of you…
Amen.
Say the Our Father, Hail Mary and Glory Be…
March 24th2024
Palm Sunday
Palm Sunday is the Sunday before Easter that begins the Holy Week. It is the day that we remember and celebrate the day Jesus entered Jerusalem as Savior and King. As Jesus rode a donkey into the town of Jerusalem, a large crowd gathered and laid palm branches and their cloaks across the road, giving Jesus royal treatment. The hundreds of people shouted, “Hosanna to the Son of David! Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord! Hosanna in the highest heaven!”
Palm Sunday is a moveable holiday that changes yearly based on Lent and the spring equinox. Many churches celebrate Palm Sunday by waving palm branches, singing traditional hymns, and making crosses out of palm fronds. But while this is a triumphal entry, it is Jesus’ first step toward His death.
A Palm Sunday Prayer
O Lord Jesus Christ,
when you entered Jerusalem,
great crowds waved palm branches and cried “Hosanna.”
Save us now from our sins,
and make us to rejoice in you,
our only Redeemer;
through your mercy, O our God,
you are blessed,
and live and govern all things,
now and forever.
Amen.
Prayer for Illumination
Merciful God, as we enter Holy week, turn our hearts again to Jerusalem, and to the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. Stir up within us the gift of faith that we may not only praise him with our lips, but may follow him in the way of the cross.
Amen.
Prayer for Holy Week
O Father, most merciful,
in the beginning you created us,
and by the passion of your only Son
you created us anew.
Work in us now, both to will and to do what pleases you. Since we are weak and can do no good thing by ourselves, grant us your grace and heavenly blessing,
that in whatever work we engage
we may do all to your honor and glory.
Keep us from sin
and empower us daily to do good works,
that as long as we live in the body
we may always perform service to you.
After our departure give us pardon of all our sins,
and receive us to eternal life;
through him who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit,
forever and ever.
Amen.
A Palm Sunday Prayer
Dear God, thank you for sending your Son and paving the way for our lives to be set free through Jesus’ death on the cross. Thank you for what this day stands for – the beginning of Holy Week, the start of the journey towards the power of the cross, the victory of the Resurrection, and the rich truth that Jesus truly is our King of Kings.
“Hosanna! Blessed is He who comes in the name of the Lord…”
We give you praise and honor for your ways are righteous and true. We give you worship for you are holy and just. We will declare that your love stands firm forever. For your lovingkindness endures forever.
Thank you that your ways are far greater than our ways, your thoughts far deeper than our thoughts. Thank you that you had a plan to redeem. Thank you that you make all things new. Thank you that your face is towards the righteous, and you hear our prayers, and know our hearts. Help us to stay strong and true to you. Help us not to follow after the voice of the crowds, but to press in close to you, to hear your whispers, and seek after you alone.
We praise you, we bless you Lord! Thank you that you reign supreme and we are more than conquerors through the gift of Christ!
In the Mighty Name of Jesus.
Amen.
Rejoice in the Hope Jesus Made Possible
Father, Palm Sunday is a reminder of the unexpected, yet fully anticipated, King of Kings. Jesus did not look like the Messiah Your people hoped for. The way He entered the Holy City of Jerusalem on that day, riding a young donkey as a significant sign of peace and fulfillment of prophecy, did not align with their expectations of a military conqueror. Much of our daily lives don’t align with our expectations, Father. So much of our lives don’t make sense. This Palm Sunday, let us embrace the unexpected entrance of our Savior, Jesus. He is Peace. Let us apply this incredible truth to our lives. Peace mattered to Jesus. He came to bring us Peace. He is peace. Father, how quickly we forget the Peace we possess in Christ! Remind us, minute by minute, as we navigate difficult days and trying times. Father, we need Peace to live life to the full, as Jesus died for us to live.
A Prayer for Palm Sunday
Father,
Palm Sunday is approaching, and this past year has brought tumultuous times and flashes of fear that none of us have experienced in our lifetimes. The very real fallen state of our world and frailty of life have been put front and centre in our lives in a visceral way. We look to you, Father, to guide us out of our fear and remind us of our Savior. We do not need to be afraid. You have given us the wisdom we need to live each day of our lives to the full purpose You have designed for us to live.
A Palm Sunday Prayer for Joyful Worship
Thank You, Father, for the life You have given us to live. For the sun rising to start another day, and the reminders of Your creation surrounding us. When we witness a beautiful mark of Your creative hand, let us recall that Christ was with You, too, when the world began and the sound of Your voice. He eventually came to earth, and watched the same sunrise we now see. He looked into the stars in the sky, and now looks down upon us, prayerfully, with love. With grateful hearts we praise You, God, for who You are and who we are in You. Let the Peace of Christ’s Palm Sunday entrance remain in our memories. When we are fearful and anxious, help us to recall the Peace in which Jesus rode into the city, so soon after to be crucified. God our Father, help us to act in grace and peace in the face of fear, both known and unknown, knowing You are incredibly close.
Confession of Sin
The voice of the messenger echoes from the desert, calling us to prepare the way of the Lord and make a straight path on which he may come. Let us confess our sins, so that our crooked ways will be made straight and the rough ways smooth.
Our sovereign Redeemer, we join with the people of Jerusalem offering our own shouts of praise and celebration at your coming. Although we often welcome you as did the multitude on Palm Sunday, we also have not always understood what that meant. We confess as well that we have stood with the condemning crowd on Good Friday with our thoughts, words, and actions crying “Crucify!” And like Peter we have, at times, denied our relationship with you through our silence. We turn to you for help and forgiveness, gracious Savior, not because we deserve it, but because you are forgiving. Save us from our sinful ways, and restore us to a life of loyalty to you. Amen.
(From the Moravian Book of Worship, page 50)
A silence is observed for the opportunity to reflect on your own particular shortcomings, and upon the gift of God’s grace.
Christ Jesus, our Lord, came to restore us to a right relationship with God. Know that your sins are forgiven, be glad and rejoice.
Amen.
Confession and Forgiveness
Jesus rode into Jerusalem not as a conquering king but in humility, the Servant King, ready to complete the task for which he had walked this world. Forgive us those times when we think too highly of ourselves and remind us always that you ask from us lives dedicated to service, to you and to our neighbours, wherever and whoever they might be. Enable us to take off our cloaks of self-righteousness and lay them down at your feet.
‘Then I acknowledged my sin to you and did not cover up my iniquity. I said, “I will confess my transgressions to the Lord” – and you forgave the guilt of my sin.’
Psalm 32:5
Affirmation
What a strange paradox; the King is coming, the people rejoice, singing ‘Hosanna in the highest!’ yet fail to understand that the King they welcome is the Servant King, the King who washes his disciples’ feet, the King who came not with an army but a weapon so powerful that not even death could resist, the sacrificial love of God laid out upon a Cross.
Lord God, as we sing our ‘Hosannas’ today may we remember also that which you were riding toward; the suffering and rejection, pain and humiliation, the cruel Cross. And let us look forward to the joy of Easter Day when you rose from death to reign forever.
Help us, as we daily lay our lives before you, to live the resurrection life that acknowledges Jesus as Lord and King over our lives.
March 28th2024
Holy Thursday / Maundy Thursday
Holy Thursday is otherwise called Maundy Thursday and falls on the Thursday before Easter. This is the 5th day of the Holy Week and preceded by Spy Wednesday and followed by Good Friday. This day is the commemoration of the institution of Eucharist by Jesus Christ Himself at the Last Supper. The Last Supper celebrated by Jesus with His disciples was actually the annual Passover feast celebrated by Jews commemorating their deliverance from slavery by God from the Egyptian Pharaoh.
A Prayer for Love
O blessed Lord; you have commanded us to love one another. Just as we have received your undeserved blessings, may we love everyone in you and for you.
We ask your kindness for all, but especially for the friends whom your love has given to us. Love them, O fountain of love, and move them to love you with all their heart, that they may will, and speak, and do only those things which are pleasing to you.
Our prayer is cold, because our love is so feeble, but you are rich in mercy. Do not measure your goodness to them by the dullness of our devotion, but as your kindness surpasses all human affection, so let your hearing transcend our prayer. Do what is best for them, according to your will, that being ruled and protected by you always and everywhere, they may receive eternal life in the end; to you, with the Father and the Holy Spirit, be all honor and praise forever and ever.
Amen.
Variant
O blessed Lord, who hast commanded us to love one another, grant us grace that having received thine undeserved bounty, we may love everyone in thee and for thee. We implore thy clemency for all; but especially for the friends whom thy love has given to us. Love thou them, O thou fountain of love, and make them to love thee with all their heart, that they may will, and speak, and do those things only which are pleasing to thee.
Prayer of Thanksgiving for Holy Thursday
“You gave Your life to us, like the bread on the table you broke into pieces and shared.
Now anyone who holds out their hand and heart can receive it and feed.
You gave Your life to us, like the wine You poured in the cup and shared.
Now anyone who offers their lips can drink and rejoice.
You gave us everything, O Lord Jesus,
and you offered your life like bread and wine.
Now the entire world can taste the love of God You shared freely with all the children of the earth!
Here we are, O Lord, holding out our hands and hearts! “
Prayer of Grace for Holy Thursday Evening
“Jesus, your love is eternal. We offer You a place in our home and in our hearts. Come, help us open our door to You, stay with us. Bring us Your peace and Your joy.”
You can leave an empty seat at dinner for Jesus, to remind everyone that He is invited to your home.
Prayer of Praise for Holy Thursday
“Lord Jesus, Your Last Supper is the first Eucharist: You even gave a place to the one who betrayed You. You gave everything to fill the void of Your absence. Blessed are You, O Servant King!”
Prayer Meditation for Holy Thursday
My Most Precious Lord Jesus, this night You gathered with Your Apostles to share with them Your last meal. But this was no ordinary meal. This was the gift of Your most Sacred Body and Blood, soon to be broken and poured out on the Cross for the salvation of the world.
Allow me, dear Lord, to spend this night in prayer and meditation with You. After the meal, you invited Your Apostles to join You for one hour, to stay awake and keep vigil as You prepared for Your arrest. The Apostles fell asleep, leaving You in Your bitter agony alone.
I accept Your gentle invitation of love, dear Lord, to spend this night in vigil with You. May I enter Your Heart as it faced the coming persecution You were to endure for my sins. May I console Your Sacred Heart and know the love and Mercy that flowed forth.
Lord, when I face the crosses of my own life, give me Your divine courage and strength to say “Yes” to the Will of the Father. Your love for me is abundant and is perfect in every way. Help me to know that love, to embrace it and to allow it into my life.
I make my vigil with You this night, dear Lord. I love You, help me to love You with all my heart. Jesus, I trust in You.
Holy Thursday Prayer to Appreciate the Mass
O Lord Jesus, in order that the merits of your sacrifice on the Cross might be applied to every soul of all time, you willed that it should be renewed upon the altar. At the Last Supper, you said: “Do this in remembrance of me.” By these words you gave your apostles and their successors the power to consecrate and to the command to do what you yourself did. I believe that the Mass is both a sacrifice and a memorial- reenacting your passion, death and resurrection. Help me to realize that the Mass is the greatest gift of God to us and our greatest gift to God.
Thursday (Maundy Thursday) – Holy Week Prayer
Lord God,
You sent your son into the world,
And before his hour had come,
He washed his disciples’ feet.
You had given all things into his hands.
He had come from you, and was going to you,
And what did he do?
He knelt down on the floor,
And washed his friends’ feet.
He was their teacher and their Lord,
Yet he washed their feet.
Lord God, help us learn from his example;
Help us to do as he has done for us.
The world will know we are his disciples
If we love one another.
Strengthen our hands and our wills for love
And for service.
Keep before our eyes the image of your Son,
Who, being God, became a Servant for our sake.
All glory be to him who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit,
One God, now and forever.
Amen.
Collect
O God, who have called us to participate
in this most sacred Supper,
in which your Only Begotten Son,
when about to hand himself over to death,
entrusted to the Church a sacrifice new for all eternity,
the banquet of his love,
grant, we pray,
that we may draw from so great a mystery,
the fullness of charity and of life.
Through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son,
who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit,
one God, forever and ever.
March 29th2024
Good Friday
They brought Jesus to the house of the Roman Governor Pontius Pilate in the morning and charged Jesus with subverting the nation by His preaching and opposing payment of taxes to Caesar and also making Him the King of Jews. Even though Pilate wanted to release Jesus but due to the compulsion of the Jews and fearing that riots may happen if Jesus was released, Pilate washed his hands in front of the Jews telling that the sin of the blood of this Man was not on him, and handed over Jesus to the Jews for crucification. The Jews and the guards ill-treated Jesus and loaded the cross on His shoulders. Jesus carried His cross to the site of crucification called the place of the skull (Golgotha in Hebrew and Calvary in Latin). Jesus suffered on the cross for about six hours and gave-up His spirit at about 3.00 p.m. Some researchers say that the date of death of Jesus on the cross was April 3, 33 A.D. Jesus was buried in the tomb by Joseph of Arimathea and Nicodemus, both members of the Sanhedrin, the Jewish Council that first convicted Jesus to death by following the Jewish burial customs.
Good Friday is a day of fast for the Catholic Christians. On this day they are permitted to eat one full meal and two small repasts together do not equal to one full meal and should abstain from eating meat. Why the day of the death of Jesus the Son of God is called Good Friday? What is good in this day instead of sorrow? The reason is that Jesus died for the absolving the sins of all the human beings. The benefits for the humanity due to the death of Jesus are good. No celebration of Eucharist and ringing of bells in the churches on this day. Baptism can be given only to persons who are in danger of death.
Good Friday Prayer
O Jesus, Who by reason of Thy burning love for us
hast willed to be crucified
and to shed Thy Most Precious Blood
for the redemption and salvation of our souls,
look down upon us here gathered together
in remembrance of Thy most sorrowful Passion and Death,
fully trusting in Thy mercy;
cleanse us from sin by Thy grace,
sanctify our toil,
give unto us and unto all those who are dear to us our
daily bread,
sweeten our sufferings,
bless our families,
and to the nations so sorely afflicted,
grant Thy peace,
which is the only true peace,
so that by obeying Thy commandments
we may come at last to the glory of heaven.
Amen.
Short Invocation for Good Friday
Lord, have mercy.
Christ, have mercy.
Lord, have mercy.
O Christ, hear us.
God, the Father in heaven, have mercy on us.
God, the Son, Redeemer of the world, have mercy on us.
God, the Holy Spirit, have mercy on us.
Be gracious to us. Spare us, good Lord.
Be gracious to us. Spare us, good Lord.
From every sin, Spare us, good Lord.
From every error, Spare us, good Lord.
From every evil, Spare us, good Lord.
From the devil’s lies and cunning, Spare us, good Lord.
From eternal death, Spare us, good Lord.
By the mystery of the holy incarnation, Spare us, good Lord.
by your holy birth, Spare us, good Lord.
by your baptism, fasting and temptation, Spare us, good Lord.
by your agony and bloody sweat, Spare us, good Lord.
by your cross and suffering, Spare us, good Lord.
by your death and burial, Spare us, good Lord.
by your resurrection and ascension, Spare us, good Lord.
by the coming of the Holy Spirit, the Counselor, in all times of trouble, Spare us, good Lord.
by the coming of the Holy Spirit, the Counselor, in all times of prosperity, Spare us, good Lord.
by the coming of the Holy Spirit, the Counselor, in the hour of death, Spare us, good Lord.
O Lord Jesus Christ, Son of God, hear us.
Lamb of God, you take away the sin of the world; have mercy on us.
Lamb of God, you take away the sin of the world; have mercy on us.
Lamb of God, you take away the sin of the world; Spare us, good Lord.
Amen.
A Prayer for Good Friday: It Is Finished
Dear God, we remember today, the pain and suffering of the cross, and all that Jesus was willing to endure, so we could be set free. He paid the price, such a great sacrifice, to offer us the gift of eternal life.
Help us never to take for granted this huge gift of love on our behalf. Help us to be reminded of the cost of it all. Forgive us for being too busy, or distracted by other things, for not fully recognizing what you freely given, what you have done for us.
Thank you, Lord, that by your wounds we are healed. Thank you that because of your huge sacrifice we can live free. Thank you that sin and death have been conquered and that your Power is everlasting.
Thank you that we can say with great hope, “It is finished…” For we know what’s still to come. And death has lost its sting. We praise you for you are making all things new. In Jesus’ Name.
Amen.
Prayer Meditation for Good Friday
My Most Glorious and Suffering Lord, it is Your Hour. It is the Hour by which You conquered sin and death. It is the Hour for which You came into this world, taking on flesh so as to offer Your precious life for the salvation of the world.
May I be with You, dear Lord, in these moments of suffering and death. May I, like Your Mother, John and Mary Magdalene, stand at the foot of the Cross, gazing upon the perfect Gift of Love.
My suffering Lord, may I see in Your Cross the most perfect act ever known in this world. May I see Love in its most pure form. May my eyes and soul look beyond the blood and pain and see Your Divine Heart, pouring forth Mercy upon me and upon the whole world.
Today I kneel in silent adoration of You, my God. I sit quietly, beholding the great mystery of our faith. I behold God, beaten, bruised, mocked, tortured and killed. But in this act, I see all grace and Mercy flowing from Your wounded Heart. Bathe the world in Your Mercy, dear Lord. Cover us with Your grace and draw us to new life through Your death. I love You, dear Lord. I love You with all my heart.
Jesus, I trust in You.
A prayer for Good Friday
Jesus,
Today we pause to remember your sacrificial love
That shone light into the darkness
That bore life from such emptiness
That revealed hope out of devastation
That spoke truth through incrimination
That released freedom in spite of imprisonment
And brought us forgiveness instead of punishment.
Thank you that we can now walk in the light of your life, hope, truth, freedom and forgiveness, this day and every day.
Amen.
The Collects
ALMIGHTY God, we beseech thee graciously to behold this thy family, for which our Lord Jesus Christ was contented to be betrayed, and given up into the hands of wicked men, and to suffer death upon the cross, who now liveth and reigneth with thee and the Holy Ghost, ever one God, world without end. Amen.
ALMIGHTY and everlasting God, by whose Spirit the whole body of the Church is governed and sanctified: Receive our supplications and prayers, which we offer before thee for all estates of men in thy holy Church, that every member of the same, in his vocation and ministry, may truly and godly serve thee; through our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. Amen.
O MERCIFUL God, who hast made all men, and hatest nothing that thou hast made, nor wouldest the death of a sinner, but rather that he should be converted and live: Have mercy upon all Jews, Turks, Infidels, and Hereticks, and take from them all ignorance, hardness of heart, and contempt of thy word; and so fetch them home, blessed Lord, to thy flock, that they may be saved among the remnant of the true Israelites, and be made one fold under one shepherd, Jesus Christ our Lord, who liveth and reigneth with thee and the Holy Spirit, one God, world without end. Amen.
Good Friday Anthem (1)
We glory in your cross, O Lord,
and praise and glorify your holy resurrection;
for by virtue of your cross
joy has come to the whole world.
May God be merciful to us and bless us,
show us the light of his countenance, and come to us.
Let your ways be known upon earth,
your saving health among all nations.
Let the peoples praise you, O God;
let all the peoples praise you.
We glory in your cross, O Lord,
and praise and glorify your holy resurrection;
for by virtue of your cross
joy has come to the whole world.
Good Friday Anthem (2)
We adore you, O Christ, and we bless you,
because by your holy cross you have redeemed the world.
If we have died with him, we shall also live with him;
If we endure, we shall also reign with him.
Prayer for a Good Friday Morning Service
Father, As we gather together today, we remember the supreme sacrifice of our beautiful King, the Lord Jesus Christ. Led like a lamb to the slaughter, clothed in humility and grace, he willing offered himself to death so that we might live forever. We are truly thankful for the extent of his love, stretched out on a cruel wooden cross. We dwell on the pain he bore for us and are truly grateful for the forgiveness that he offers. As we worship and praise now, help us to live in the wonder of this goodness and marvel at his endless grace.
Amen.
March 30th
Holy Saturday / Easter Vigil
It is the last day of the Holy Week. In this day Jesus body remained in the rock hewn tomb originally made for Joseph of Arimathea, member of the Jewish Council. Though a member of the council, he had not consented to the council’s purpose and deed (Luke 23:51) but also he did not supported Jesus during the trial in the council. Some legend says that this Joseph of Arimathea was an uncle of Mary, the mother of Jesus. Some say that the Sanhedrin should be convened only during the daytime to deal with criminal charges and also criminal charges should not be transacted during the Passover season. Moreover it must meet in the Hall of Hewn Stone for its decision to be valid. But these procedures were not followed. But the meeting was convened during the night and at the residence of the Chief Priest. The Jewish leaders in their haste to eliminate Jesus quickly did not seem to have followed their own rules about Sanhedrin.
Holy Saturday lasts till dusk or 6.00 p.m. and after which the Easter Vigil is celebrated. The church service usually starts with the blessing of fresh fire and the lighting of the Paschal Candle. All faithful are required to renew their baptism vows and baptism administered to children and other new entrants to the Catholic Church.
A Holy Saturday Prayer
O Lord Jesus Christ, for our sins you endured the cross and the grave, and on the third day you rose again from the tomb.
Just as you have cleansed us from our sins by your blood, and as we are buried with you in baptism, so by your grace, let us share in your resurrection; through your mercy,
O our God, you are blessed and live and govern all things, now and forever.
Amen.
A Prayer for Easter Eve
O God, you enlightened this most holy night with the glory of the Lord’s resurrection. Preserve the spirit of adoption which you have given to all your people, so that renewed in body and soul, we may serve you in all purity; through your Son, Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever.
Restored by Christ
O God of unchangeable power and eternal light, look favorably on your whole Church, which is a wonderful and sacred mystery. In your eternal foreknowledge, you peacefully do your saving work for humanity.
Let the whole world know that things that were cast down are being raised up, and things that had grown old are being made new, and all things are being restored by him in whom they have their beginning; Jesus Christ our Lord.
Amen.
Holy Saturday – Holy Week Prayer
Lord God,
On the Sabbath,
Jesus rested.
He was in the grave.
He had finished his work.
To most people’s eyes,
It looked as if it were all over.
He was dead and buried.
But only as a seed dies when it is planted in the earth,
Not to decay, but to spring to new life.
Teach us to take refuge in you when we are afraid
Teach us that death is not our end
Teach us to hope always in you
And in the resurrection, the making of all things new.
Through Jesus Christ our Lord,
Amen.
A Prayer for Holy Saturday
O God, Creator of heaven and earth: Grant that, as the crucified body of your dear Son was laid in the tomb and rested on this holy Sabbath, so we may await with him the coming of the third day, and rise with him to newness of life; who now lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, forever and ever.
Amen.
A Prayer in the Waiting
Dear God,
I’m reminded this Holy Saturday that you are no stranger to death, darkness, or doubt. Help me to remember as I wade within my own discomforts and fears today, that you are still alive, even when I can’t see you. You know waiting is hard. And yet you allow it, for your glory to be revealed in your perfect timing. I rest in you, Lord, as I wait on what only you can do.
Amen.
A Prayer of Gratitude for Resurrection
Lord,
your miracles are so inconceivable, it’s tempting to not believe. How awesome you are to prove yourself able to defeat even death, so we can look forward to each new day. Help me to invite this Saturday as a holy day that you have made. I’m in awe that what appeared dead to human senses, by your power and grace, rose to life.
Guide me to trust in the proof you’ve given, even during the confusing, inevitable “tomb” seasons of life this side of heaven. Praise you for making resurrection so perfect and plain! In your name,
Amen.
A Prayer of Praise
Our life had no hope of Eternal Happiness before You redeemed us.
Your Resurrection has washed away our sins, restored our innocence and brought us joy.
How inestimable is the tenderness of Your Love!
A Prayer to Awaken Dormant Faith
Dear God,
… may this Easter grandeur that Spring lavishly imparts
Awaken faded flowers of faith lying dormant in our hearts,
And give us ears to hear, dear God, the Springtime song of birds
With messages more meaningful than man’s often empty words
Telling harried human beings who are lost in dark despair –
‘Be like us and do not worry for God has you in His care.
Holy Saturday Prayer
My Lord, today all is silent. You have given Your precious life for the salvation of the world. You died a horrific death, poured out all Mercy from Your wounded Heart, and now You rest in peace in the tomb as the soldiers keep vigil.
Lord, may I also keep vigil with You as You sleep. I know that this day ends with Your glorious triumph, Your victory over sin and death. But for now I sit quietly mourning Your death.
Help me, dear Lord, to enter into the sorrow and the silence of this Holy Saturday. Today no Sacraments are celebrated. Today the world waits in mourning in anticipation of the glory of new life!
As I keep vigil, awaiting the celebration of Your Resurrection, fill me with hope. Help me to look forward to the celebration of Your Resurrection, but also to look forward to the hope of my own share in the new life You won for the world. I entrust my whole being to You, dear Lord, as You lay lifeless and still. May Your rest transform the brokenness of my own soul, my weaknesses, my sin and my frailty. You are glorious and You bring the greatest good out of Your apparent defeat. I trust in Your power to do all things and I entrust my life to You. Jesus, I trust in You.
Prayer for Holy Saturday
(This prayer is designed to be said within the family before a Crucifix on Holy Saturday.)
No candles are lit on this day.
Mother or a child:
“May our Lord Jesus Christ, Your Son, who alone by His powerful word governs all things, yet has buried the shame of the Cross and iron bonds,
who has broken the bars of the bronze doors and has descended into hell, who has shone with the brightness of a new light on those who were sitting in the shadow of death, may He,
the sun of justice, rising from the tomb, shine upon our darkness with the marvellous light of his risen Body.”
Father: The women sitting at the sepulchre
Family: were weeping and lamenting for the Lord.
Let us pray
O God, who makes this most holy night illustrious by the glory of the resurrection of our Lord, preserve in the new children of your family the spirit of adoption which You have given, that, renewed in body and soul, they may give You a pure service. This we ask of You through our Lord Jesus Christ, Your Son.
Family: Amen.
Father: Let us bless the Lord.
Family: Thanks be to God.
Father: May the almighty and merciful Lord, Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, bless and keep us.
Family: Amen.
Holy Saturday Prayer
All-powerful and ever-living God, your only Son went down among the dead and rose again in glory. In your goodness raise up your faithful people, buried with him in baptism, to be one with him in the eternal life of heaven, where he lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, forever and ever.
Amen.
Holy Saturday Prayer to Be Joined with Christ in Death
O Lord, your sorrowing Mother stood by Your Cross; help us in our sorrows to share Your sufferings. Like the seed buried in the ground, You have produced the harvest of eternal life for us; make us always dead to sin and alive to God. Shepard of all, in death you remained hidden from the world; teach us to love our hidden spiritual life with You and the father. In Your role as the new Adam, you went down among the dead to release all the just there since the beginning; grant that all who are dead in sin may hear Your voice and rise to new life. Son of the living God, you have allowed us through baptism to be buried with You; grant that we may also rise with You in baptism and walk in newness of life.
Collect
All-powerful and ever-living God,
your only Son went down among the dead
and rose again in glory.
In your goodness
raise up your faithful people,
buried with him in baptism,
to be one with him
in the eternal life of heaven,
where he lives and reigns with you
and the Holy Spirit, one God,
forever and ever.
May the Lord bless us, protect us from all evil and bring us to everlasting life.
Amen.
March 31st2024
Easter Sunday
Easter Sunday,
Easter Sunday is a Christian Festival celebrating the resurrection to life of Jesus Christ, on the third day after death by crucification at Golgotha. The date of Easter varies between March 22 and April 25. Previously the first Christians celebrated the Passover feast on the 14th Nissan of the Hebrew Calendar like the Jews. There was a difference of opinion regarding the celebration on the 14th Nissan. In the Council of Nicaea convened in the year 325 A.D. by Emperor Constantine-I the Great, it was decided that the resurrection of Jesus only. It was also decided that the resurrection of Jesus should be celebrated on the first Sunday
Easter Prayer of Saint Hippolytus
Christ is risen: The world below lies desolate.
Christ is risen: The spirits of evil are fallen.
Christ is risen: The angels of God are rejoicing.
Christ is risen: The tombs of the dead are empty.
Christ is risen indeed from the dead, the first of the sleepers! Glory and Power are His forever and ever!
Amen.
A Prayer for Easter Sunday
Lord God, you loved this world so much that you gave your one and only Son, that we might be called your children too. Lord, help us to live in the gladness and grace of Easter Sunday, every day. Let us have hearts of thankfulness for your sacrifice. Let us have eyes that look upon your grace and rejoice in our salvation. Help us to walk in that mighty grace and tell your good news to the world.
All for your glory do we pray, Lord,
Amen.
An Easter Prayer
Good and gracious God,
Our most glorious Creator,
As we greet the signs in nature around us:
Of Spring once again regaling us in bloom,
In the songs of returning birds and fields soon to be planted,
We give you praise for an even greater sign of new life: the resurrection of your Son,
Our Lord Jesus Christ, that we especially celebrate at this time.
The sadness and despair of his death has given way to the bright promise of immortality.
For the Resurrection is our guarantee that justice will triumph over treason, Light will overcome darkness, and love will conquer death.
As we celebrate, we also dare to ask for your grace that we may live the promise given to us,
By imitating the life of Jesus in reaching out to the poor, the marginalized, the least among us,
As we strive to be neighbor to all those we meet,
We ask your special blessings each and every day on our President.
Working with him may we strive to make this great country of ours a beacon of hope and justice in a world hungry for peace and so in need of your love.
We praise you in this Easter season. Change our lives, change our hearts to be messengers of Easter joy and hope.
We make our prayer through Jesus Christ, our risen Lord forever.
Amen.
Anglican Prayer for Easter Sunday
Almighty God, who through your only begotten Son Jesus Christ overcame death and opened to us the gate of everlasting life: Grant that we, who celebrate with joy the day of the Lord’s resurrection, may be raised from the death of sin by your life-giving Spirit; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever.
Amen.
Love Overcame
Love overcame
Emerging from a cold tomb
All the truth, majesty and creativity of a living God
Transforming a broken heart
Making a quiet return, in a still and sorrowful garden
The grave stone rolled away, to release redemptive love
Jesus resurrected and restored
Comforts a weeping woman
Speaks with travellers on a journey
Meets with his faithful friends
And they bow down before Christ alive
And acknowledged that the saviour has arrived
That the word of God has come alive
And that the extraordinary transformation of heaven and earth is complete
An Easter Prayer
Loving Lord, today we remember
the veil of darkness
transforming to the brightest light.
The most dreadful end
becoming the most beautiful beginning.
We remember with trembling hearts
the depths of despair
fading to reveal hope everlasting.
The curse of death
defeated by eternal life.
Today we remember with thankfulness
your willingness to be pierced for our sins.
We sing with abounding joy
of your miraculous rise,
from death’s tomb to resplendent life.
Thank you for the promise of heaven
and your generous invitation of eternal life for all.
Amen.
The Gate of Everlasting Life
Lord, the resurrection of Your Son has given us new life and renewed hope.
Help us to live as new people in pursuit of the Christian ideal.
Grant us wisdom to know what we must do, the will to want to do it, the courage to undertake it, the perseverance to continue to do it, and the strength to complete it.
Easter Prayer to the Holy Trinity
O Lord,
Risen, alive and full of grace.
You paid such a price that we may live in freedom today.
We worship your holy name and give thanks for your redeeming grace.
Heavenly Father,
May we drink in your tender love so that we can pour this love out to others.
Come reign in our hearts, minds and spirits.
Holy Spirit,
We welcome you to blow through our every word, action and thought.
Come transform us on the inside so that each day we become more like our risen Lord.
Amen.
An Easter Prayer from Matthew 28
– “Do not be afraid.” God, I hand over to You those things that make me so afraid. Resurrect the parts of my faith squelched by fear.
– “I know that you are looking for Jesus.” God, when my soul is searching, help me know the answer to every longing can be found in You.
– “He has risen.” God, the fact that Jesus is risen should lift my head, my heart and my attitude. Help me to live today as if I really believe this with every part of my life.
– “Just as he said.” Jesus, you keep Your promises. Help me live as though I believe that with every part of me. Help me trust you more, obey You more and resemble You more.
– “Come and see.” Jesus, you had the angels invite the women in to see for themselves that You had risen. You invite me into these personal revelations every day. Forgive me for sometimes rushing about and forgetting to come and see for myself … You, Your Word, Your insights.
– “Then go quickly and tell his disciples.” Jesus, I don’t want to be a secret keeper with my faith. I want to be a bold and gracious truth proclaimer. For You. With You. Because of You. Me, the unwanted girl whom You loved, redeemed and wanted.
In Jesus’ Name.
Amen.
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