HOLY TERTULLIAN; PRAYER

 

Holy Tertullian;

"Prayer cleanses from sin, drives away temptations, stamps out persecutions, comforts the fainthearted, gives new strength to the courageous, brings travellers safely home, calms the waves, confounds robbers, feeds the poor, overrules the rich, lifts up the fallen, supports those who are falling, sustains those who stand firm."

Catherine Nicolette;

These words from Holy Tertullian speak about the nature of prayer. Let us never underestimate the power of prayer. At all times - whether we feel strong or weak, afraid or joyful, let us pray. And when words fail us, let our hearts simply turn towards God.

For prayer is not an escape from life; it is the strength with which we face life. Prayer may not always still the storm around us, but it can still the storm within us. Prayer may not immediately change our circumstances, but it opens our hearts to the grace by which God can transform them.

Therefore, whatever tomorrow may bring, pray and do not despair. Pray and do not give up; pray so you do not lose hope. When the road is difficult, pray. When the burden is heavy, pray. When you have fallen, pray - and rise again.

For the hand that reaches towards God in prayer will never reach into emptiness. God hears the cry of the humble and strengthens the weary. The Father raises the fallen and protects the vulnerable. Divine Providence gives courage to those who trust in Him.

Let us therefore determine to become people of prayer - people whose faith is stronger than their fear. Let us become a people whose hope is greater than our difficulties, and whose trust in God cannot be shaken.

May we pray in the morning, throughout the day and in the night. May our very lives become a prayer.

For in prayer we discover not simply the answer to our needs, but the Presence of God Himself. When we journey with God, we never walk alone.

Image by Catherine Nicolette

PRAYER CHAPEL OF SAINT TERESA OF ÁVILA

DOCTOR OF THE CHURCH; MYSTIC OF PRAYER, REFORMER OF CARMEL

Please enter the devotional prayer chapel with a few moments of silence. Quiet your thoughts and place yourself in the Presence of Almighty God. May holy Saint Teresa of Avila help you in your pilgrimage towards holiness. This prayer chapel expresses the spirituality of Saint Teresa of Ávila; contemplative prayer, close friendship with Christ, perseverance through trials, humility, reform of the heart, love of the Holy Eucharist and joyful confidence that "God alone is enough." 

Theme: Deep prayer, friendship with Jesus Christ, interior holiness, humility, perseverance, and complete trust in God's love.

Entrance Prayer

"In the Name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.

Lord Jesus Christ, You called Saint Teresa of Ávila to draw ever closer to You through the life of prayer. Filled with the fire of the Holy Spirit, she taught that prayer is a loving friendship with You, Who never cease to call us into the depths of Your Heart.

As we gather in this chapel dedicated to her honour, open our hearts to Your presence. Teach us to seek You in silence, to trust You in every trial, and to persevere faithfully in prayer until our lives become a joyful witness of Your love.

May Saint Teresa lead us ever closer to Your Sacred Heart.

Amen."

Scripture Reading

John 15:4

"Abide in Me as I abide in you. Just as the branch cannot bear fruit by itself unless it abides in the vine, neither can you unless you abide in Me."

Reflection

Saint Teresa of Ávila discovered that the deepest happiness is found in friendship with Jesus Christ. She devoted her life to prayer, teaching that true prayer is not merely speaking to God, but spending time with Him in loving friendship.

Through perseverance, humility and complete trust in God's grace, Saint Teresa renewed the Carmelite Order, and encouraged countless souls to seek holiness through an interior life centred on Christ.

Even amid difficulties, suffering and misunderstandings, Saint Teresa remained joyful because her confidence rested entirely in God. She often reminded others that everything passes away, but God alone is enough.

Saint Teresa teaches us that every soul is called to become a dwelling place for God. As we open our hearts through faithful prayer, Christ transforms us from within, filling us with His love, peace and wisdom.

LITANY OF SAINT TERESA OF ÁVILA

Response: Pray for us.

Saint Teresa, 

Response

Saint Teresa, faithful servant of Jesus Christ,

Response

Saint Teresa, who loved prayer,

Response

Saint Teresa, faithful daughter of Carmel,

Response

Saint Teresa, Doctor of the Church,

Response

Saint Teresa, friend of Jesus,

Response

Saint Teresa, teacher of the interior life,

Response

Saint Teresa, faithful reformer,

Response

Saint Teresa, example of humility,

Response

Saint Teresa, model of perseverance,

Response

Saint Teresa, who had great love for the Holy Eucharist,

Response

Saint Teresa, faithful contemplative,

Response

Saint Teresa, guide for those seeking holiness,

Response

Saint Teresa, comforter of the discouraged,

Response

Saint Teresa, witness of joyful hope,

Response

Saint Teresa, radiant servant of God's love,

Response

Saint Teresa of Ávila, pray for us.

Prayer

"Saint Teresa of Ávila, teacher of prayer and faithful friend of Jesus, pray for us.

Help us to make time each day to sit quietly in the Presence of Our Lord Jesus Christ, the Son of God. Teach us to speak to Him with confidence, to listen with attentive hearts, and to trust Him completely in every circumstance.

When distractions trouble us, help us to persevere. When suffering comes, remind us that Christ walks beside us. May our prayer become a loving friendship that transforms our hearts and draws us ever closer to God.

Amen."

Prayer for Families and Communities

"Saint Teresa, intercede for our families and communities.

Pray that our homes may become places of prayer, peace and joyful love. Strengthen husbands and wives in faithful commitment, guide parents in wisdom, and inspire children to grow in holiness.

Pray for priests, religious, missionaries and all who dedicate their lives to God's service. Strengthen those who are weary, comfort those who suffer, and encourage all who seek to know God's Will.

May our communities become living witnesses of Christ's love through prayer, charity and humble service.

Amen."

Closing Prayer

"O God, You filled Saint Teresa of Ávila with wisdom, courage and an ardent love for prayer.

Grant that, through her prayers, we may grow in friendship with Jesus Christ, persevere faithfully in prayer, and seek holiness in every moment of our lives.

Teach us to trust completely in Your loving Providence, to serve others with generous hearts, and to become dwelling places of Your Holy Spirit.

Bring us one day into the everlasting joy of heaven, where, together with Saint Teresa and all the saints, we shall praise You forever.

Through Christ our Lord.

Amen."

Saint Teresa of Ávila; pray for us

Jesus, King of Mercy; we trust in You

Our Lady of Mount Carmel; pray for us

Saint Joseph, Guardian and Patron of the Church; pray for us.

NOVENA TO SAINT TERESA OF ÁVILA

The Novena to Saint Teresa of Ávila is a time of prayer, interior renewal and complete trust in God's loving Providence. Through the powerful intercession of St Teresa, we ask for the grace to deepen our friendship with Jesus Christ and to persevere faithfully in prayer. We also ask for the grace to grow in humility, and to seek holiness through loving union with God.

"In the Name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.

Heavenly Father, in Your infinite goodness You gave the Church Saint Teresa of Ávila as a faithful teacher of prayer, and a courageous reformer of Carmel.

Through her life of contemplation, humility and unwavering trust, she led countless souls to discover the joy of friendship with Your Son, Jesus Christ. She taught that every soul is called to become a dwelling place where You delight to abide.

Lord Jesus Christ, through the prayers of Saint Teresa, grant me the grace to seek You each day in prayer. Help me to persevere through every difficulty and to trust completely in Your love. Grant me the grace to remain faithful to the path You have prepared for me.

Saint Teresa of Ávila, faithful servant of Christ, I confidently ask for your loving intercession.

(Here mention your intention.)

If it is God's Holy Will, obtain for me the favour I now seek.

Teach me to pray with a humble and trusting heart, and to love the Holy Eucharist. Guide me to seek God's holy Presence in every circumstance, and to become a joyful witness of the gospel.

Pray for the Church, and for priests, religious and missionaries. Pray for families, and for those who suffer. We pray for those who struggle in prayer, and for all who long to know the peace of Christ.

Lead me always closer to Jesus and His Blessed Mother, that one day I may rejoice with you and all the saints in the everlasting happiness of heaven.

I thank you, dear Saint Teresa, for your loving prayers and entrust myself completely to the Mercy of Almighty God.

Through Christ our Lord.

Amen.

In the Name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen."

Image courtesy of ChatGPT with CN Whittle "Prayerful devotion in candlelit chapel"

PRAYER CARD FOR INTERCESSION OF PADRE PIO

 

Image courtesy of ChatGPT with CN Whittle

PRAYER TO HAVE A CHILD

 

IN PREPARATION FOR MOTHERHOOD AND FOR YOUNG MOTHERHOOD

PRAYER TO HAVE A CHILD

Mother of Christ, you know, as no other mother can, the high dignity of motherhood. You know how immensely great is the privilege to call into this world a tiny soul destined to praise God forever in heaven.

This is the privilege I now seek, Mary!

Confidently I beg you to assist me, for I know that motherhood is so precious in your sight. And confidently, too, I hope for this blessing through your Divine Son, since Jesus loves little children and has said that we should allow them to come to Him.

It is for this blessing that I beg you to join to my petitions your own holy intercession, that I might be privileged to bring to Jesus a little one such as He so dearly loves, that He may bless the little one, that He may bless me, also, in my motherhood, and that He may then make us both grow in the wonders of His divine life.

Mother of Mothers,

Pray for me!

 

Pages 12 to 15.  “In Preparation for Motherhood and for Young Motherhood”, publishing details unknown

PRAYER CHAPEL OF SAINT CATHERINE OF SIENA

DOCTOR OF THE CHURCH;

MYSTIC OF CHRIST, SERVANT OF PEACE

Please enter the devotional prayer chapel with a few moments of silence. Quiet your thoughts, and put yourself in the Presence of Almighty God. May holy Saint Catherine of Siena help you in your pilgrimage towards holiness. This prayer chapel highlights Saint Catherine's distinctive spirituality; profound union with Christ Crucified, devotion to the Holy Eucharist, fidelity to the Church, courageous proclamation of the truth, compassionate service to the poor and sick, and prayer that bears fruit in works of peace and charity.

Theme: Love of Jesus Christ, fidelity to the Church, prayer, holiness, courage, charity, humility, and joyful obedience to God's Will.

Entrance Prayer

"In the Name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.

Lord Jesus Christ, You called Saint Catherine of Siena from a hidden life of prayer to become a fearless witness to Your gospel. Filled with the fire of the Holy Spirit, she loved Your Church with all her heart. Catherine cared for the poor and the sick, and courageously encouraged many to follow the path of holiness.

As we gather in this chapel dedicated to her honour, kindle within us the same love for You. Teach us to seek Your Holy Will, to remain faithful to Your Church, and to serve others with generous and joyful hearts.

May Saint Catherine lead us ever closer to Your Sacred Heart.

Amen."

Scripture Reading

John 15:5

"I am the vine, you are the branches. Those who abide in Me and I in them bear much fruit, because apart from Me you can do nothing."

Reflection

Saint Catherine of Siena devoted herself completely to Jesus Christ through prayer, sacrifice and loving service. Though she lived during a time of great difficulty within the Church, she never lost hope. With humility and courage, Catherine spoke the truth in love. She encouraged leaders and ordinary people alike to seek holiness and reconciliation.

Saint Catherine's heart was deeply united to Christ Crucified. Through contemplation of His Passion, she discovered the immeasurable depth of Divine Mercy. Catherine dedicated her life to bringing souls closer to God.

Saint Catherine teaches us that prayer and action belong together. A heart filled with God's love naturally reaches out in charity, peace and service. Catherine reminds us that true holiness is found in loving Christ above all things, and faithfully carrying out His Will each day.

LITANY OF SAINT CATHERINE OF SIENA

Response: Pray for us

Saint Catherine, 

Response

Saint Catherine, faithful servant of Jesus Christ,

Response

Saint Catherine, devoted to Christ Crucified,

Response

Saint Catherine, faithful daughter of the Church,

Response

Saint Catherine, woman of deep prayer,

Response

Saint Catherine, Doctor of the Church,

Response

Saint Catherine, courageous witness of truth,

Response

Saint Catherine, servant of peace,

Response

Saint Catherine, comforter of the sick,

Response

Saint Catherine, devoted to the Holy Eucharist,

Response

Saint Catherine, humble disciple of Christ,

Response

Saint Catherine, guide for those seeking holiness,

Response

Saint Catherine, faithful intercessor,

Response

Saint Catherine, example of joyful charity,

Response

Saint Catherine, secondary patron of Rome,

Response

Saint Catherine, co-patron of Italy, 

Response

Saint Catherine, co-patron of Europe,

Response

Saint Catherine, radiant witness of God's love,

Response

Saint Catherine of Siena, 

Response.

Prayer for Love of Christ

"Saint Catherine of Siena, whose heart burned with love for Jesus Christ, pray for us.

Help us to grow closer to the Lord through daily prayer, faithful participation in the Holy Eucharist, and loving service to others.

Teach us to contemplate the mystery of Christ's Passion, to trust completely in His Mercy, and to remain faithful during every trial.

May our lives reflect His love through humility, kindness and joyful obedience.

Amen."

Prayer for Families and Communities

"Saint Catherine, intercede for our families and communities.

Pray that our homes may become places of prayer, forgiveness and peace. Help husbands and wives to remain faithful, parents to guide their children in wisdom, and young people to seek God's Will with generous hearts.

Pray for the universal Church, for the Holy Father, for bishops, priests, deacons, religious and all the faithful, that together we may remain united in Christ.

Intercede for all people of the world, and for our communities and nations; - that justice, charity and peace may flourish among all people.

Lead many souls to the love and mercy of Jesus Christ.

Amen."

Closing Prayer

"O God, You filled Saint Catherine of Siena with wisdom, courage and burning love for Your Son and His Church.

Grant that, through her prayers, we may grow in holiness through faithful prayer, generous charity and steadfast obedience to Your Holy Will.

Teach us to love Your Church, to proclaim the truth with humility, and to become instruments of Your peace in our homes and communities.

Bring us one day into the everlasting joy of heaven, where, together with Saint Catherine and all the saints, we shall praise You forever.

Through Christ our Lord.

Amen."

Saint Catherine of Siena; pray for us

Jesus, King of Mercy; we trust in You

Our Lady, Seat of Wisdom; pray for us

Saint Joseph, Guardian and Patron of the Church; pray for us.

NOVENA TO SAINT CATHERINE OF SIENA

The Novena to Saint Catherine of Siena is a time of prayer, faithful discipleship and complete trust in God's loving Providence. Through her powerful intercession, we ask for a deeper love of Jesus Christ, and fidelity to the Church. We pray for the courage to witness to the truth, perseverance in prayer, and for hearts filled with charity and peace.

"In the Name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.

Heavenly Father, in Your infinite goodness You gave the Church Saint Catherine of Siena as a faithful witness of prayer, wisdom and courageous love.

Filled with the Holy Spirit, she devoted her life to Christ Crucified Catherine cared for the poor and the suffering, and encouraged unity within the Church. She proclaimed Your truth with humility and compassion.

Lord Jesus Christ, through the prayers of Saint Catherine, grant me the grace to love You with all my heart, to seek Your Holy Will in every circumstance, and to serve You faithfully through prayer and charity.

Saint Catherine of Siena, faithful servant of Christ, I confidently ask for your loving intercession.

(Here mention your intention.)

If it is God's Holy Will, obtain for me the favour I now seek.

Teach me to remain faithful to the gospel, and to love the Church. Inspire me to forgive generously, and to persevere in prayer. Help me to become an instrument of God's peace.

Pray for the universal Church, for the Holy Father, and for bishops, priests, deacons, religious and all the faithful. Pray for families, and for those who suffer. Pray for those who have lost hope, and for all who seek the Mercy of Jesus Christ.

Lead me always closer to Jesus and His Blessed Mother, that one day I may rejoice with you and all the saints in the everlasting happiness of heaven.

I thank you, dear Saint Catherine, for your loving prayers and entrust myself completely to the Mercy of Almighty God.

Through Christ our Lord.

Amen.

In the Name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen."

 Image courtesy of ChatGPT with CN Whittle "Divine Visitation in sacred chapel" 

PRAYER CHAPEL OF SAINT CLARE OF ASSISI

FOUNDRESS OF THE POOR CLARES;

DEVOTION TO THE HOLY EUCHARIST, 

RELIGIOUS FOR CHRIST

Please enter the devotional prayer chapel with a few moments of silence. Quiet your thoughts and put yourself in the Presence of Almighty God. May holy Saint Clare of Assisi help you in your pilgrimage towards holiness. This prayer chapel expresses the distinctive spirituality of Saint Clare of Assisi, emphasizing her love of Christ, devotion to the Holy Eucharist, prayer, humility, poverty, contemplation, trust in Divine Providence and joyful service.

Theme: Prayer, love of the Holy Eucharist, humility, holy poverty, contemplative faith, trust in God's Providence, and joyful service.

Entrance Prayer

"In the Name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.

Lord Jesus Christ, You called Saint Clare of Assisi to leave behind the riches of this world in order to embrace the everlasting riches of Your Kingdom. Through her life of prayer, poverty and unwavering devotion to the Holy Eucharist, she became a radiant witness to Your love and a faithful religious for Christ.

As we gather in this chapel dedicated to her honour, teach us to seek You above all earthly things. Help us to grow in humility, to trust completely in Your Divine Providence, and to adore You with loving hearts in the Blessed Sacrament.

May Saint Clare lead us ever closer to Your Sacred Heart.

Amen."

Scripture Reading

Psalm 27:4

"One thing I ask of the Lord, this I seek: to dwell in the house of the Lord all the days of my life, to behold the beauty of the Lord and to seek Him in His temple."

Reflection

Saint Clare of Assisi heard Christ's invitation through the example of Saint Francis and responded with complete generosity. Leaving behind wealth and privilege, she embraced a life of joyful poverty so that nothing would separate her from the love of Jesus Christ.

As foundress of the Poor Clares, Clare devoted herself to prayer, contemplation and service within her community. Her greatest strength came from her deep love for the Holy Eucharist. Tradition tells us that, when her convent was threatened by attackers, she carried the Blessed Sacrament before them in faith, trusting entirely in the protecting Power of Christ.

Saint Clare reminds us that true riches are found in God's Presence. Through silence, prayer and loving trust, we discover the joy of belonging completely to Jesus. Her life teaches us that humble hearts, filled with faith, become powerful witnesses to God's Light in the world.

LITANY OF SAINT CLARE OF ASSISI

Response: Pray for us.

Saint Clare, 

Response

Saint Clare, faithful servant of Jesus Christ,

Response

Saint Clare, devoted religious for Christ,

Response

Saint Clare, devoted to the Holy Eucharist,

Response

Saint Clare, faithful daughter of the Church,

Response

Saint Clare, companion of Saint Francis,

Response

Saint Clare, model of holy poverty,

Response

Saint Clare, woman of deep prayer,

Response

Saint Clare, light of Assisi,

Response

Saint Clare, humble servant of God,

Response

Saint Clare, faithful contemplative,

Response

Saint Clare, protector through the Blessed Sacrament,

Response

Saint Clare, example of joyful simplicity,

Response

Saint Clare, comforter of the afflicted,

Response

Saint Clare, patroness of trust in Divine Providence,

Response

Saint Clare, radiant witness of God's love,

Response

Saint Clare of Assisi, pray for us.

Prayer for Love of the Holy Eucharist

"Saint Clare of Assisi, whose heart found its greatest joy in the Presence of Jesus in the Blessed Sacrament, pray for us.

Help us to love the Holy Eucharist with deep reverence and gratitude. Teach us to spend time with Jesus in silent adoration, drawing strength from His Real Presence.

When we are afraid, remind us that Christ remains with His people. When we are weak, lead us to the Bread of Life. May our hearts become living tabernacles where the Love of Jesus shines brightly.

Amen."

Prayer for Families and Communities

"Saint Clare, intercede for our families and communities.

Pray that our homes may become places of prayer, peace and joyful charity. Help us to value people more than possessions, and to place Christ at the centre of everything we do.

Inspire us to care for those who are poor, lonely and forgotten. Teach us to encourage one another with kindness, humility and forgiveness.

Pray for our Church, our communities and our nations, that we may grow in unity, holiness and faithful love.

Lead many souls to the Holy Eucharist, where Jesus waits to strengthen and nourish His people.

Amen."

Closing Prayer

"O God, You called Saint Clare of Assisi to follow Christ through humility, poverty and unwavering devotion to the Holy Eucharist.

Grant that, through her prayers, we may seek first the treasures of heaven and trust completely in Your loving Providence. May we become joyful witnesses of the gospel.

May our lives reflect the light of Christ through prayer, simplicity and generous love. Teach us to adore You faithfully, to serve others humbly, and to find our greatest joy in Your Presence.

Bring us one day into the everlasting glory of heaven, where, together with Saint Clare and all the saints, we shall praise You forever.

Through Christ our Lord.

Amen."

Saint Clare of Assisi; pray for us

Jesus, King of Mercy; we trust in You

Our Lady of the Angels; pray for us

Saint Joseph, Guardian and Patron of the Church; pray for us.

NOVENA TO SAINT CLARE OF ASSISI

The Novena to Saint Clare of Assisi is a time of prayer, Eucharistic devotion and joyful trust in God. Through her powerful intercession, we ask for the grace to love Jesus in the Blessed Sacrament. We also pray for the grace to live with simplicity and humility and to trust in God's Providence. Through her inspiration, may we grow in holiness through prayer, and become shining witnesses of Christ's Light.

"In the Name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.

Heavenly Father, in Your infinite goodness You called Saint Clare of Assisi to leave behind earthly riches, and to embrace the everlasting riches of Your Kingdom.

Through her life of prayer, poverty and faithful devotion to the Holy Eucharist, she became a radiant light within Your Church. Filled with confidence in Your Divine Providence, Clare placed all her hope in Jesus Christ, and inspired countless souls to seek the treasures of heaven.

Lord Jesus Christ, through the prayers of Saint Clare, grant me the grace to love You above all things. Help me to seek You faithfully in prayer, to adore You in the Blessed Sacrament, and to trust completely in Your loving care.

Saint Clare of Assisi, faithful servant of Christ, I confidently ask for your loving intercession.

(Here mention your intention.)

If it is God's Holy Will, obtain for me the favour I now seek.

Teach me to live simply and to love generously. Inspire me to pray faithfully, and to recognise Christ in every person I meet.

Help me to place my confidence in God's Providence, and to remain steadfast during trials. Guide me to become a joyful witness of the gospel.

Pray for the Church, for families, for those who suffer, and for the poor. Pray for those who adore Jesus in the Holy Eucharist, and for all who seek the peace of Christ.

Lead me always closer to Jesus, His Blessed Mother and Saint Joseph, that one day I may rejoice with you and all the saints in the everlasting happiness of heaven.

I thank you, dear Saint Clare, for your loving prayers and entrust myself completely to the mercy of Almighty God.

Through Christ our Lord.

Amen.

In the Name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen."

Image courtesy of ChatGPT with CN Whittle "Saint Clare at San Damiano convent" 

PRAYER CHAPEL OF SAINT FRANCIS OF ASSISI

POOR MAN OF ASSISI; 

HERALD OF PEACE, LOVER OF CHRIST AND ALL CREATION

Please enter the devotional prayer chapel with a few moments of silence. Quiet your thoughts and put yourself in the Presence of Almighty God. May holy Saint Francis of Assisi help you in your pilgrimage towards holiness. This prayer chapel expresses the  heart of Saint Francis' spirituality; joyful poverty, love of Christ crucified, reverence for the Holy Eucharist, peace and reconciliation, compassionate service to the poor and praise of God through all creation.

Theme: Humility, poverty of spirit, love of Jesus Christ, peace, joy, care for creation, charity toward the poor, and holiness through simple living.

Entrance Prayer

"In the Name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.

Lord Jesus Christ, You called Saint Francis of Assisi to leave behind the riches of this world and to embrace the riches of Your Kingdom. Through his humble life of prayer, poverty and joyful service, he became a living image of Your love and a faithful witness to Your Holy Gospel.

As we gather in this chapel dedicated to his honour, teach us to seek first the treasures of heaven. Help us to love You above all things, to care for one another with generous hearts, and to become instruments of Your peace in a world longing for hope.

May Saint Francis lead us ever closer to Your Sacred Heart.

Amen."

Scripture Reading

Matthew 5:9

"Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called children of God."

Reflection

Saint Francis of Assisi heard the voice of Christ calling him to "repair My Church." He responded with joyful generosity, embracing a life of simplicity, humility and complete trust in God's Providence.

Saint Francis loved the Holy Eucharist with deep reverence, cherished Sacred Scripture, served the poor with compassion, and saw every person as a brother or sister. His love extended to all creation, which he recognised as a gift from the Creator. Francis praised God through the beauty of the sun, the moon, the birds and every living creature.

Near the end of his life, Saint Francis received the sacred wounds of Christ. He shared in the sufferings of Our beloved Lord. Yet even in suffering Francis remained joyful, for his heart rested completely in God.

Saint Francis reminds us that true happiness is found not in possessions or worldly success, but in loving God with our whole hearts and serving others with humility and compassion.

LITANY OF SAINT FRANCIS OF ASSISI

Response: Pray for us

Saint Francis,

Response

Saint Francis, faithful servant of Jesus Christ,

Response

Saint Francis, who loved the Holy Eucharist,

Response

Saint Francis, humble follower of the gospel,

Response

Saint Francis, herald of peace,

Response

Saint Francis, joyful servant of the poor,

Response

Saint Francis, faithful son of the Church,

Response

Saint Francis, lover of God's creation,

Response

Saint Francis, model of simplicity,

Response

Saint Francis, example of holy poverty,

Response

Saint Francis, bearer of the Sacred Stigmata,

Response

Saint Francis, comforter of the suffering,

Response

Saint Francis, friend of all God's creatures,

Response

Saint Francis, teacher of joyful trust,

Response

Saint Francis, patron of peace,

Response

Saint Francis, faithful disciple of Christ,

Response

Saint Francis of Assisi, pray for us.

Prayer for Peace

"Saint Francis of Assisi, faithful servant of Christ and joyful messenger of peace, pray for us.

Teach us to love as Jesus loved, to forgive as He forgave, and to seek peace wherever there is conflict.

Help us to replace anger with gentleness, selfishness with generosity, fear with trust, and hatred with love.

May our words encourage others, our actions reflect the Gospel, and our lives become instruments through which Christ's peace reaches the world.

Fill our hearts with the joy that comes from living close to Jesus.

Amen."

Prayer for Families and Communities

"Saint Francis, intercede for our families and communities.

Pray that our homes may become places of prayer, kindness and joyful service. Inspire us to care for one another, especially the poor, the lonely, the elderly and those who are forgotten.

Teach us to respect God's beautiful creation and to use its gifts wisely and gratefully.

Pray for our Church, our communities and our nations, that we may live together in harmony, justice and charity.

Lead many souls to discover the peace and Mercy of Jesus Christ.

Amen."

Closing Prayer

"O God, You called Saint Francis of Assisi to follow Christ in humility, poverty and perfect charity.

Grant that, through his prayers, we may seek first Your Kingdom, rejoice in serving others, and become faithful witnesses to the Gospel in every circumstance of life.

Teach us to love the Holy Eucharist, to care for all whom You have created, and to walk each day in simplicity, gratitude and peace.

Bring us at last into the everlasting joy of heaven, where, together with Saint Francis and all the saints, we shall praise You forever.

Through Christ our Lord.

Amen."

Saint Francis of Assisi; pray for us

Jesus, King of Mercy; we trust in You

Our Lady of the Angels; pray for us

Saint Joseph, Guardian and Patron of the Church; pray for us.

NOVENA TO SAINT FRANCIS OF ASSISI

The Novena to Saint Francis of Assisi is a time of prayer, joyful conversion and complete trust in God. Through his powerful intercession, we ask for the grace to live the gospel with simplicity. We ask that we have the gift to love the poor, to care for God's creation and to become instruments of peace. We pray that we may grow in holiness through humility and charity.

"In the Name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.

Heavenly Father, in Your infinite goodness You called Saint Francis of Assisi to leave behind the riches of this world, and to embrace the riches of Your heavenly Kingdom.

Through his joyful life of prayer, poverty and service, Francis became a faithful image of Your Son, Jesus Christ. Filled with love for the Holy Eucharist, compassion for the poor and reverence for all creation, Francis proclaimed the gospel with both his words and his life.

Lord Jesus Christ, through the prayers of Saint Francis, grant me the grace to follow You with an undivided heart. Help me to seek holiness in simplicity and to trust in Your loving Providence. Guide me to become an instrument of Your peace.

Saint Francis of Assisi, faithful servant of Christ, I confidently ask for your loving intercession.

(Here mention your intention.)

If it is God's Holy Will, obtain for me the favour I now seek.

Teach me to love the poor, to forgive generously and to live humbly. Help me to recognise Christ in every person I meet.

Guide me to care for Your creation with gratitude and to rejoice in the gift of each new day. Inspire me to proclaim the gospel by the witness of my life.

Pray for the Church, for families and for those who suffer. Pray for all who are poor in body or spirit, and for everyone seeking the peace of Christ.

Lead me always closer to Jesus and His Blessed Mother, that one day I may rejoice with you and all the saints in the everlasting happiness of heaven.

I thank you, dear Saint Francis, for your loving prayers and entrust myself completely to the mercy of Almighty God.

Through Christ our Lord.

Amen.

In the Name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen."

Image courtesy of ChatGPT with CN Whittle "St Francis' devotional prayer in old chapel"