Total Consecration

[Maggie893]

For those interested in the Total Consecration of St. Louis de Montfort, I thought I'd post this here.

The next date to start the 33 day preparation for those initially consecrating or those renewing is November 5th with a consecration on December 8th the Feast of the Immaculate Conception. If you haven't looked at this consecration yet I encourage you to read the following link and consider it. It's a powerful journey of Grace that I know many on this site can attest to.

http://www.kensmen.com/catholic/totalconsecrationmontfort.htmlhttp://www.love2learn.net/religion/costumes.html#flightsoffancycostumes

 

[Fangtastic]

Thank you for posting this,I know I would benefit from this.I just don't know if I have the commitment to follow through with it.I've never done a 33 day consecration/novena.I may check back on the 5th.I don't know.Something to consider for me.

 

[Maggie893]

Thank you for posting this,I know I would benefit from this.I just don't know if I have the commitment to follow through with it.I've never done a 33 day consecration/novena.I may check back on the 5th.I don't know.Something to consider for me.

I did it last year at this time and I didn't think I could follow through either. Some days it was difficult but I compared it to "giving up something for Lent" which is even longer and figured I could handle it. It ended up being a great grace for me. The real struggle came on the 8th when I was to consecrate because I was traveling out of town and needed to find a daily Mass. I ended up at a beautiful Church in the middle of Boston that has many Mass and confession opportunities all day long for business people. It was pretty cool! God manages to work everything out if we surrender.

I recommend starting to read Total Consecration or The Secret of Mary now as both are available online. That will give you some sense of it all and it may give you a conviction either to do it now or later. There are many other feast days you can do it on throughout the year if you decide not to do it this time. I chose this one because it worked for me and because I wanted some deeper devotion before Christmas.

 

[Maggie893]

Just as a reference I thought I'd post this as well. It's a shorter booklet which might provide some with a basic understanding of the consecration.

http://www.ewtn.com/library/Montfort/SECRET.HTM

 

[Fangtastic]

Thanks Maggie.

 

[Maggie893]

I will be away from the internet on a youth retreat for the weekend so I'm going to post both Day 1 and Day 2 in advance.

If you would like to complete your Consecration to Jesus on The Feast of the Immaculate Conception, you will begin your 33 day preparation on Saturday, Nov. 5.

I will post the actual spiritual exercises for each day. Don't just read the readings, internalize them; don't let your lips just mouth the prayers, truly pray them.


First comes a 12-day preparation period that consists of emptying oneself of the spirit of the world in penance and mortification. For those 12 days, we pray the Veni Creator, the Ave Maris Stella, the Magnificat, and the Glory Be.


Day 1 Readings and Prayers


[font=arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif]Matthew 5:1-19[/font]

[font=arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif]And seeing the multitudes, he went up into a mountain, and when he was set down, his disciples came unto him. And opening his mouth, he taught them, saying: Blessed are the poor in spirit: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are the meek: for they shall possess the land. Blessed are they that mourn: for they shall be comforted. Blessed are they that hunger and thirst after justice: for they shall have their fill. Blessed are the merciful: for they shall obtain mercy. Blessed are the clean of heart: for they shall see God. Blessed are the peacemakers: for they shall be called children of God. Blessed are they that suffer persecution for justice' sake: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are ye when they shall revile you, and persecute you, and speak all that is evil against you, untruly, for my sake: Be glad and rejoice, for your reward is very great in heaven. For so they persecuted the prophets that were before you. You are the salt of the earth. But if the salt lose its savour, wherewith shall it be salted? It is good for nothing any more but to be cast out, and to be trodden on by men. You are the light of the world. A city seated on a mountain cannot be hid. Neither do men light a candle and put it under a bushel, but upon a candlestick, that it may shine to all that are in the house. So let your light shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father who is in heaven. Do not think that I am come to destroy the law, or the prophets. I am not come to destroy, but to fulfill. For amen I say unto you, till heaven and earth pass, one jot, or one tittle shall not pass of the law, till all be fulfilled. He therefore that shall break one of these least commandments, and shall so teach men, shall be called the least in the kingdom of heaven. But he that shall do and teach, he shall be called great in the kingdom of heaven.


Examine your conscience, pray, practice renouncement of your own will; mortification, purity of heart. This purity is the indispensable condition for contemplating God in heaven, to see Him on earth and to know Him by the light of faith. The first part of the preparation should be employed in casting off the spirit of the world which is contrary to that of Jesus Christ. The spirit of the world consists essentially in the denial of the supreme dominion of God; a denial which is manifested in practice by sin and disobedience; thus it is principally opposed to the spirit of Christ, which is also that of Mary.

It manifests itself by the concupiscence of the flesh, by the concupiscence of the eyes and by the pride of life. By disobedience to God's laws and the abuse of created things. Its works are: sin in all forms, then all else by which the devil leads to sin; works which bring error and darkness to the mind, and seduction and corruption to the will. Its pomps are the splendor and the charms employed by the devil to render sin alluring in persons, places and things.

Veni Creator



[font=arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif]Come, Holy Spirit, Creator blest,
and in our souls take up Thy rest;
come with Thy grace and heavenly aid
to fill the hearts which Thou hast made. [/font]

[font=arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif]O comforter, to Thee we cry,
O heavenly gift of God Most High,
O fount of life and fire of love,
and sweet anointing from above. [/font]

[font=arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif]Thou in Thy sevenfold gifts are known;
Thou, finger of God's hand we own;
Thou, promise of the Father,
Thou Who dost the tongue with power imbue. [/font]

[font=arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif]Kindle our sense from above,
and make our hearts o'erflow with love;
with patience firm and virtue high
the weakness of our flesh supply.[/font]

[font=arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif]Far from us drive the foe we dread,
and grant us Thy peace instead;
so shall we not, with Thee for guide,
turn from the path of life aside. [/font]

[font=arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif]Oh, may Thy grace on us bestow
the Father and the Son to know;
and Thee, through endless times confessed,
of both the eternal Spirit blest. [/font]

[font=arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif]Now to the Father and the Son,
Who rose from death, be glory given,
with Thou, O Holy Comforter,
henceforth by all in earth and heaven. Amen.[/font]

Ave Maris Stella



[font=arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif]Hail, O Star of the ocean,
God's own Mother blest,
ever sinless Virgin,
gate of heav'nly rest. [/font]

[font=arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif]Taking that sweet Ave,
which from Gabriel came,
peace confirm within us,
changing Eve's name. [/font]

[font=arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif]Break the sinners' fetters,
make our blindness day,
Chase all evils from us,
for all blessings pray. [/font]

[font=arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif]Show thyself a Mother,
may the Word divine
born for us thine Infant
hear our prayers through thine. [/font]

[font=arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif]Virgin all excelling,
mildest of the mild,
free from guilt preserve us
meek and undefiled. [/font]

[font=arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif]Keep our life all spotless,
make our way secure
till we find in Jesus,
joy for evermore. [/font]

[font=arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif]Praise to God the Father,
honor to the Son,
in the Holy Spirit,
be the glory one. Amen.
[/font]
Magnificat



[font=arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif]My soul doth magnify the Lord. And my spirit hath rejoiced in God my Savior. Because He hath regarded the humility of His handmaid; for behold, from henceforth all generations shall call me blessed. Because He that is mighty hath done great things to me; and holy is His name. And His mercy is from generation to generations, to them that fear Him. He hath showed might in His arm; He hath scattered the proud in the conceit of their heart.

He hath put down the mighty from their seat; and hath exalted the humble. He hath filled the hungry with good things; and the rich he hath sent empty away. He hath received Israel His servant, being mindful of His mercy. As He spoke to our fathers, to Abraham and to his seed forever. Amen.
[/font]
Glory Be

[font=arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif]Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Ghost. As it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, world without end. Amen.[/font]

[/font]

 

[Maggie893]

Day 2 Readings and Prayers





[font=arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif]Matthew 5:48, 6:1-15 [/font]

[font=arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif]Be you therefore perfect, as also your heavenly Father is perfect....Take heed that you do not your justice before men, to be seen by them: otherwise you shall not have a reward of your Father who is in heaven. Therefore when thou dost an almsdeed, sound not a trumpet before thee, as the hypocrites do in the synagogues and in the streets, that they may be honoured by men. Amen I say to you, they have received their reward. But when thou dost alms, let not thy left hand know what thy right hand doth. That thy alms may be in secret, and thy Father who seeth in secret will repay thee. And when ye pray, you shall not be as the hypocrites, that love to stand and pray in the synagogues and corners of the streets, that they may be seen by men: Amen I say to you, they have received their reward. But thou when thou shalt pray, enter into thy chamber, and having shut the door, pray to thy Father in secret: and thy Father who seeth in secret will repay thee. And when you are praying, speak not much, as the heathens. For they think that in their much speaking they may be heard. Be not you therefore like to them, for your Father knoweth what is needful for you, before you ask him. Thus therefore shall you pray: Our Father who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name. Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our supersubstantial bread. And forgive us our debts, as we also forgive our debtors. And lead us not into temptation. But deliver us from evil. Amen. For if you will forgive men their offences, your heavenly Father will forgive you also your offences. But if you will not forgive men, neither will your Father forgive you your offences. [/font]


​

Veni Creator



[font=arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif]Come, Holy Spirit, Creator blest,
and in our souls take up Thy rest;
come with Thy grace and heavenly aid
to fill the hearts which Thou hast made. [/font]

[font=arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif]O comforter, to Thee we cry,
O heavenly gift of God Most High,
O fount of life and fire of love,
and sweet anointing from above. [/font]

[font=arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif]Thou in Thy sevenfold gifts are known;
Thou, finger of God's hand we own;
Thou, promise of the Father,
Thou Who dost the tongue with power imbue. [/font]

[font=arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif]Kindle our sense from above,
and make our hearts o'erflow with love;
with patience firm and virtue high
the weakness of our flesh supply.[/font]

[font=arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif]Far from us drive the foe we dread,
and grant us Thy peace instead;
so shall we not, with Thee for guide,
turn from the path of life aside. [/font]

[font=arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif]Oh, may Thy grace on us bestow
the Father and the Son to know;
and Thee, through endless times confessed,
of both the eternal Spirit blest. [/font]

[font=arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif]Now to the Father and the Son,
Who rose from death, be glory given,
with Thou, O Holy Comforter,
henceforth by all in earth and heaven. Amen.[/font]

Ave Maris Stella



[font=arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif]Hail, O Star of the ocean,
God's own Mother blest,
ever sinless Virgin,
gate of heav'nly rest. [/font]

[font=arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif]Taking that sweet Ave,
which from Gabriel came,
peace confirm within us,
changing Eve's name. [/font]

[font=arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif]Break the sinners' fetters,
make our blindness day,
Chase all evils from us,
for all blessings pray. [/font]

[font=arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif]Show thyself a Mother,
may the Word divine
born for us thine Infant
hear our prayers through thine. [/font]

[font=arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif]Virgin all excelling,
mildest of the mild,
free from guilt preserve us
meek and undefiled. [/font]

[font=arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif]Keep our life all spotless,
make our way secure
till we find in Jesus,
joy for evermore. [/font]

[font=arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif]Praise to God the Father,
honor to the Son,
in the Holy Spirit,
be the glory one. Amen.
[/font]
Magnificat

[font=arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif]My soul doth magnify the Lord. And my spirit hath rejoiced in God my Savior. Because He hath regarded the humility of His handmaid; for behold, from henceforth all generations shall call me blessed. Because He that is mighty hath done great things to me; and holy is His name. And His mercy is from generation to generations, to them that fear Him. He hath showed might in His arm; He hath scattered the proud in the conceit of their heart.

He hath put down the mighty from their seat; and hath exalted the humble. He hath filled the hungry with good things; and the rich he hath sent empty away. He hath received Israel His servant, being mindful of His mercy. As He spoke to our fathers, to Abraham and to his seed forever. Amen.
[/font]
Glory Be

[font=arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif]Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Ghost. As it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, world without end. Amen.[/font]

 

[Maggie893]

Day Three readings and prayers




[font=arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif]Matthew 7:1-14[/font]

[font=arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif]Judge not, that you may not be judged, For with what judgment you judge, you shall be judged: and with what measure you mete, it shall be measured to you again. Any why seest thou the mote that is in thy brother's eye; and seest not the beam that is in thy own eye? Or how sayest thou to thy brother: Let me cast the mote out of thy eye; and behold a beam is in thy own eye? Thou hypocrite, cast out first the beam in thy own eye, and then shalt thou see to cast out the mote out of thy brother's eye. Give not that which is holy to dogs; neither cast ye your pearls before swine, lest perhaps they trample them under their feet, and turning upon you, they tear you. Ask, and it shall be given you: seek, and you shall find: knock, and it shall be opened to you. For every one that asketh, receiveth: and he that seeketh, findeth: and to him that knocketh, it shall be opened. Or what man is there among you, of whom if his son shall ask bread, will he reach him a stone? Or if he shall ask him a fish, will he reach him a serpent? If you then being evil, know how to give good gifts to your children: how much more will your Father who is in heaven, give good things to them that ask him? All things therefore whatsoever you would that men should do to you, do you also to them. For this is the law and the prophets. Enter ye in at the narrow gate: for wide is the gate, and broad is the way that leadeth to destruction, and many there are who go in thereat. How narrow is the gate, and strait is the way that leadeth to life: and few there are that find it! [/font]


​

Veni Creator


[font=arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif]Come, Holy Spirit, Creator blest,
and in our souls take up Thy rest;
come with Thy grace and heavenly aid
to fill the hearts which Thou hast made. [/font]

[font=arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif]O comforter, to Thee we cry,
O heavenly gift of God Most High,
O fount of life and fire of love,
and sweet anointing from above. [/font]

[font=arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif]Thou in Thy sevenfold gifts are known;
Thou, finger of God's hand we own;
Thou, promise of the Father,
Thou Who dost the tongue with power imbue. [/font]

[font=arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif]Kindle our sense from above,
and make our hearts o'erflow with love;
with patience firm and virtue high
the weakness of our flesh supply.[/font]

[font=arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif]Far from us drive the foe we dread,
and grant us Thy peace instead;
so shall we not, with Thee for guide,
turn from the path of life aside. [/font]

[font=arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif]Oh, may Thy grace on us bestow
the Father and the Son to know;
and Thee, through endless times confessed,
of both the eternal Spirit blest. [/font]

[font=arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif]Now to the Father and the Son,
Who rose from death, be glory given,
with Thou, O Holy Comforter,
henceforth by all in earth and heaven. Amen.[/font]

Ave Maris Stella


[font=arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif]Hail, O Star of the ocean,
God's own Mother blest,
ever sinless Virgin,
gate of heav'nly rest. [/font]

[font=arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif]Taking that sweet Ave,
which from Gabriel came,
peace confirm within us,
changing Eve's name. [/font]

[font=arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif]Break the sinners' fetters,
make our blindness day,
Chase all evils from us,
for all blessings pray. [/font]

[font=arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif]Show thyself a Mother,
may the Word divine
born for us thine Infant
hear our prayers through thine. [/font]

[font=arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif]Virgin all excelling,
mildest of the mild,
free from guilt preserve us
meek and undefiled. [/font]

[font=arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif]Keep our life all spotless,
make our way secure
till we find in Jesus,
joy for evermore. [/font]

[font=arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif]Praise to God the Father,
honor to the Son,
in the Holy Spirit,
be the glory one. Amen.

[/font]Magnificat

[font=arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif]My soul doth magnify the Lord. And my spirit hath rejoiced in God my Savior. Because He hath regarded the humility of His handmaid; for behold, from henceforth all generations shall call me blessed. Because He that is mighty hath done great things to me; and holy is His name. And His mercy is from generation to generations, to them that fear Him. He hath showed might in His arm; He hath scattered the proud in the conceit of their heart.

He hath put down the mighty from their seat; and hath exalted the humble. He hath filled the hungry with good things; and the rich he hath sent empty away. He hath received Israel His servant, being mindful of His mercy. As He spoke to our fathers, to Abraham and to his seed forever. Amen.

[/font]
Glory Be

[font=arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif]Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Ghost. As it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, world without end. Amen.[/font]

 

[Maggie893]

[font=arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif]Day Four Readings and Prayers[/font]



[font=arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif]Imitation of Christ, by Thomas á Kempis: Book 3, Chapters 7, 40 [/font]

[font=arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif]That man has no good of himself, and that he cannot glory in anything Lord, what is man, that Thou art mindful of him; or the son of man, that Thou visit him? What has man deserved that Thou should give him grace? Lord, what cause have I to complain, if Thou forsakest me, or what can I justly allege, if what I petition Thou shalt not grant? This most assuredly, I may truly think and say: Lord I am nothing, I can do nothing of myself, that is good, but I am in all things defective and ever tend to nothing. And unless I am assisted and interiorly instructed by Thee, I become wholly tepid and relaxed, but Thou, O Lord, art always the same, and endurest unto eternity, ever good, just and holy, doing all things well, justly and holily and disposing them in wisdom.


But I who am more inclined to go back, than to go forward, continue not always in one state, for I am changed, seven different times. But it quickly becomes better when it pleases Thee, and Thou stretchest out Thy helping hand: for Thou alone, without man's aid can assist me and so strengthen me, that my countenance shall be more diversely changed: but my heart be converted and find its rest in Thee alone.

He who would be too secure in time of peace will often be found too much dejected in time of war. If you could always continue to be humble and little in your own eyes, and keep your spirit in due order and subjection, you would not fall so easily into danger and offense. It is good counsel that, when you have conceived the spirit of fervor, you should meditate how it will be when that light shall be withdrawn. [/font]


​

Veni Creator

[font=arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif]Come, Holy Spirit, Creator blest,
and in our souls take up Thy rest;
come with Thy grace and heavenly aid
to fill the hearts which Thou hast made. [/font]

[font=arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif]O comforter, to Thee we cry,
O heavenly gift of God Most High,
O fount of life and fire of love,
and sweet anointing from above. [/font]

[font=arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif]Thou in Thy sevenfold gifts are known;
Thou, finger of God's hand we own;
Thou, promise of the Father,
Thou Who dost the tongue with power imbue. [/font]

[font=arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif]Kindle our sense from above,
and make our hearts o'erflow with love;
with patience firm and virtue high
the weakness of our flesh supply.[/font]

[font=arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif]Far from us drive the foe we dread,
and grant us Thy peace instead;
so shall we not, with Thee for guide,
turn from the path of life aside. [/font]

[font=arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif]Oh, may Thy grace on us bestow
the Father and the Son to know;
and Thee, through endless times confessed,
of both the eternal Spirit blest. [/font]

[font=arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif]Now to the Father and the Son,
Who rose from death, be glory given,
with Thou, O Holy Comforter,
henceforth by all in earth and heaven. Amen.[/font]

Ave Maris Stella

[font=arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif]Hail, O Star of the ocean,
God's own Mother blest,
ever sinless Virgin,
gate of heav'nly rest. [/font]

[font=arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif]Taking that sweet Ave,
which from Gabriel came,
peace confirm within us,
changing Eve's name. [/font]

[font=arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif]Break the sinners' fetters,
make our blindness day,
Chase all evils from us,
for all blessings pray. [/font]

[font=arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif]Show thyself a Mother,
may the Word divine
born for us thine Infant
hear our prayers through thine. [/font]

[font=arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif]Virgin all excelling,
mildest of the mild,
free from guilt preserve us
meek and undefiled. [/font]

[font=arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif]Keep our life all spotless,
make our way secure
till we find in Jesus,
joy for evermore. [/font]

[font=arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif]Praise to God the Father,
honor to the Son,
in the Holy Spirit,
be the glory one. Amen.
[/font]
Magnificat

[font=arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif]My soul doth magnify the Lord. And my spirit hath rejoiced in God my Savior. Because He hath regarded the humility of His handmaid; for behold, from henceforth all generations shall call me blessed. Because He that is mighty hath done great things to me; and holy is His name. And His mercy is from generation to generations, to them that fear Him. He hath showed might in His arm; He hath scattered the proud in the conceit of their heart.

He hath put down the mighty from their seat; and hath exalted the humble. He hath filled the hungry with good things; and the rich he hath sent empty away. He hath received Israel His servant, being mindful of His mercy. As He spoke to our fathers, to Abraham and to his seed forever. Amen.
[/font]
Glory Be

[font=arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif]Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Ghost. As it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, world without end. Amen.[/font]

 

[Maggie893]

Day 5 readings and prayers




[font=arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif]Imitation of Christ, by Thomas á Kempis: Book 3, Chapter 40 [/font]

[font=arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif]Wherefore, but I did know well, how to cast from me all human comfort, either for the sake of devotion, or through the necessity by which I am compelled to seek Thee, because there is no man that can comfort me. Then might I deservedly hope in Thy favor, and rejoice in the gift of a new consolation. Thanks be to Thee from Whom all things proceed, as often as it happens to me. I, indeed, am but vanity, and nothing in Thy sight , an inconstant and weak man. Where, therefore, can I glory, or for what do I desire to be thought of highly?


Forsooth of my very nothingness; and this is most vain. Truly vainglory is an evil plague, because it draws away from true glory, and robs us of heavenly grace. For, while a man takes complacency in himself, he displeases Thee; while he wants for human applause, he is deprived of true virtues. But true, glory and holy exultation is to glory in Thee, and not in one's self; to rejoice in Thy Name, but not in one's own strength. To find pleasure in no creature, save only for Thy sake. Let Thy Name be praised, not mine; let Thy work be magnified, not mine; let Thy Holy Name be blessed, but let nothing be attributed to me of the praise of men. Thou art my glory; Thou art the exultation of my heart; in Thee, will I glory and rejoice all the day; but for myself, I will glory in nothing but in my infirmities. [/font]

​

Veni Creator


[font=arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif]Come, Holy Spirit, Creator blest,
and in our souls take up Thy rest;
come with Thy grace and heavenly aid
to fill the hearts which Thou hast made. [/font]

[font=arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif]O comforter, to Thee we cry,
O heavenly gift of God Most High,
O fount of life and fire of love,
and sweet anointing from above. [/font]

[font=arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif]Thou in Thy sevenfold gifts are known;
Thou, finger of God's hand we own;
Thou, promise of the Father,
Thou Who dost the tongue with power imbue. [/font]

[font=arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif]Kindle our sense from above,
and make our hearts o'erflow with love;
with patience firm and virtue high
the weakness of our flesh supply.[/font]

[font=arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif]Far from us drive the foe we dread,
and grant us Thy peace instead;
so shall we not, with Thee for guide,
turn from the path of life aside. [/font]

[font=arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif]Oh, may Thy grace on us bestow
the Father and the Son to know;
and Thee, through endless times confessed,
of both the eternal Spirit blest. [/font]

[font=arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif]Now to the Father and the Son,
Who rose from death, be glory given,
with Thou, O Holy Comforter,
henceforth by all in earth and heaven. Amen.[/font]

Ave Maris Stella

[font=arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif]Hail, O Star of the ocean,
God's own Mother blest,
ever sinless Virgin,
gate of heav'nly rest. [/font]

[font=arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif]Taking that sweet Ave,
which from Gabriel came,
peace confirm within us,
changing Eve's name. [/font]

[font=arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif]Break the sinners' fetters,
make our blindness day,
Chase all evils from us,
for all blessings pray. [/font]

[font=arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif]Show thyself a Mother,
may the Word divine
born for us thine Infant
hear our prayers through thine. [/font]

[font=arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif]Virgin all excelling,
mildest of the mild,
free from guilt preserve us
meek and undefiled. [/font]

[font=arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif]Keep our life all spotless,
make our way secure
till we find in Jesus,
joy for evermore. [/font]

[font=arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif]Praise to God the Father,
honor to the Son,
in the Holy Spirit,
be the glory one. Amen.
[/font]
Magnificat

[font=arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif]My soul doth magnify the Lord. And my spirit hath rejoiced in God my Savior. Because He hath regarded the humility of His handmaid; for behold, from henceforth all generations shall call me blessed. Because He that is mighty hath done great things to me; and holy is His name. And His mercy is from generation to generations, to them that fear Him. He hath showed might in His arm; He hath scattered the proud in the conceit of their heart.

He hath put down the mighty from their seat; and hath exalted the humble. He hath filled the hungry with good things; and the rich he hath sent empty away. He hath received Israel His servant, being mindful of His mercy. As He spoke to our fathers, to Abraham and to his seed forever. Amen.
[/font]
Glory Be

[font=arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif]Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Ghost. As it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, world without end. Amen.[/font]

 

[Maggie893]

Day 6 Readings and Prayers

[font=arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif]Imitation of Christ, by Thomas á Kempis: Book 1, Chapter 18 [/font]


[font=arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif]On the examples of the Holy Fathers. [/font]

[font=arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif]Look upon the lively examples of the holy Fathers in whom shone real perfection and the religious life, and you will see how little it is, and almost nothing that we do. Alas, what is our life when we compare it with theirs? Saints and friends of Christ, they served our Lord in hunger and in thirst, in cold, in nakedness, in labor and in weariness, in watching, in fasting, prayers and holy meditations, and in frequent persecutions and reproaches. Oh, how many grievous tribulations did the Apostles suffer and the Martyrs and Confessors and Virgins, and all the rest who resolved to follow the steps of Christ! For they hated their lives in this world, that they might keep them in life everlasting. Oh what a strict and self-renouncing life the holy Fathers of the desert led! What long and grievous temptations did they bear! How often were they harassed by the enemy, what frequent and fervent prayers did they offer up to God, what rigorous abstinence did they practice!


What a valiant contest waged they to subdue their imperfections! What purity and straightforwardness of purpose kept they towards God! By day they labored, and much of the night they spent in prayer; though while they labored, they were far from leaving off mental prayer. They spent all their time profitably. Every hour seemed short to spend with God; and even their necessary bodily refreshment was forgotten in the great sweetness of contemplation. They renounced all riches, dignities, honors and kindred; they hardly took what was necessary for life. It grieved them to serve the body even in its necessity. Accordingly, they were poor in earthly things, but very rich in grace and virtues.[/font]

​

Veni Creator

[font=arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif]Come, Holy Spirit, Creator blest,
and in our souls take up Thy rest;
come with Thy grace and heavenly aid
to fill the hearts which Thou hast made. [/font]

[font=arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif]O comforter, to Thee we cry,
O heavenly gift of God Most High,
O fount of life and fire of love,
and sweet anointing from above. [/font]

[font=arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif]Thou in Thy sevenfold gifts are known;
Thou, finger of God's hand we own;
Thou, promise of the Father,
Thou Who dost the tongue with power imbue. [/font]

[font=arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif]Kindle our sense from above,
and make our hearts o'erflow with love;
with patience firm and virtue high
the weakness of our flesh supply.[/font]

[font=arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif]Far from us drive the foe we dread,
and grant us Thy peace instead;
so shall we not, with Thee for guide,
turn from the path of life aside. [/font]

[font=arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif]Oh, may Thy grace on us bestow
the Father and the Son to know;
and Thee, through endless times confessed,
of both the eternal Spirit blest. [/font]

[font=arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif]Now to the Father and the Son,
Who rose from death, be glory given,
with Thou, O Holy Comforter,
henceforth by all in earth and heaven. Amen.[/font]

Ave Maris Stella

[font=arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif]Hail, O Star of the ocean,
God's own Mother blest,
ever sinless Virgin,
gate of heav'nly rest. [/font]

[font=arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif]Taking that sweet Ave,
which from Gabriel came,
peace confirm within us,
changing Eve's name. [/font]

[font=arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif]Break the sinners' fetters,
make our blindness day,
Chase all evils from us,
for all blessings pray. [/font]

[font=arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif]Show thyself a Mother,
may the Word divine
born for us thine Infant
hear our prayers through thine. [/font]

[font=arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif]Virgin all excelling,
mildest of the mild,
free from guilt preserve us
meek and undefiled. [/font]

[font=arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif]Keep our life all spotless,
make our way secure
till we find in Jesus,
joy for evermore. [/font]

[font=arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif]Praise to God the Father,
honor to the Son,
in the Holy Spirit,
be the glory one. Amen.
[/font]
Magnificat

[font=arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif]My soul doth magnify the Lord. And my spirit hath rejoiced in God my Savior. Because He hath regarded the humility of His handmaid; for behold, from henceforth all generations shall call me blessed. Because He that is mighty hath done great things to me; and holy is His name. And His mercy is from generation to generations, to them that fear Him. He hath showed might in His arm; He hath scattered the proud in the conceit of their heart.

He hath put down the mighty from their seat; and hath exalted the humble. He hath filled the hungry with good things; and the rich he hath sent empty away. He hath received Israel His servant, being mindful of His mercy. As He spoke to our fathers, to Abraham and to his seed forever. Amen.
[/font]
Glory Be

[font=arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif]Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Ghost. As it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, world without end. Amen.[/font]

 

[Maggie893]

I have to post the next 3 days because I'm off on another youth retreat weekend.


Day 7 Readings and Prayers

[font=arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif]Imitation of Christ, by Thomas á Kempis: Book 1, Chapter 18, cont. [/font]

[font=arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif]Outwardly they suffered want, but within they were refreshed with grace and Divine consolation. They were aliens to the world; they seemed as nothing and the world despised them; but they were precious and beloved in the sight of God. They persevered in true humility, they lived in simple obedience, they walked in charity and patience, and so every day they advanced in spirit and gained great favor with God. They were given for example to all religious, and ought more to excite us to advance in good, than the number of lukewarm to induce us to grow remiss. Oh! how great was the fervor of all religious in the beginning of their holy institute! Oh, how great was their devotion in prayer, how great was their zeal for virtue! How vigorous the discipline that was kept up, what reverence and obedience, under the rule of the superior, flourished in all! Their traces that remain still bear witness, that they were truly holy and perfect men who did battle so stoutly, and trampled the world under their feet. Now, he is thought great who is not a transgressor; and who can, with patience, endure what he has undertaken. Ah, the lukewarmness and negligence of our state! that we soon fall away from our first fervor, and are even now tired with life, from slothfulness and tepidity. Oh that advancement in virtue be not quite asleep in thee, who has so often seen the manifold examples of the devout! [/font]


​

Veni Creator

[font=arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif]Come, Holy Spirit, Creator blest,
and in our souls take up Thy rest;
come with Thy grace and heavenly aid
to fill the hearts which Thou hast made. [/font]

[font=arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif]O comforter, to Thee we cry,
O heavenly gift of God Most High,
O fount of life and fire of love,
and sweet anointing from above. [/font]

[font=arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif]Thou in Thy sevenfold gifts are known;
Thou, finger of God's hand we own;
Thou, promise of the Father,
Thou Who dost the tongue with power imbue. [/font]

[font=arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif]Kindle our sense from above,
and make our hearts o'erflow with love;
with patience firm and virtue high
the weakness of our flesh supply.[/font]

[font=arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif]Far from us drive the foe we dread,
and grant us Thy peace instead;
so shall we not, with Thee for guide,
turn from the path of life aside. [/font]

[font=arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif]Oh, may Thy grace on us bestow
the Father and the Son to know;
and Thee, through endless times confessed,
of both the eternal Spirit blest. [/font]

[font=arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif]Now to the Father and the Son,
Who rose from death, be glory given,
with Thou, O Holy Comforter,
henceforth by all in earth and heaven. Amen.[/font]

Ave Maris Stella

[font=arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif]Hail, O Star of the ocean,
God's own Mother blest,
ever sinless Virgin,
gate of heav'nly rest. [/font]

[font=arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif]Taking that sweet Ave,
which from Gabriel came,
peace confirm within us,
changing Eve's name. [/font]

[font=arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif]Break the sinners' fetters,
make our blindness day,
Chase all evils from us,
for all blessings pray. [/font]

[font=arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif]Show thyself a Mother,
may the Word divine
born for us thine Infant
hear our prayers through thine. [/font]

[font=arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif]Virgin all excelling,
mildest of the mild,
free from guilt preserve us
meek and undefiled. [/font]

[font=arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif]Keep our life all spotless,
make our way secure
till we find in Jesus,
joy for evermore. [/font]

[font=arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif]Praise to God the Father,
honor to the Son,
in the Holy Spirit,
be the glory one. Amen.
[/font]
Magnificat

[font=arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif]My soul doth magnify the Lord. And my spirit hath rejoiced in God my Savior. Because He hath regarded the humility of His handmaid; for behold, from henceforth all generations shall call me blessed. Because He that is mighty hath done great things to me; and holy is His name. And His mercy is from generation to generations, to them that fear Him. He hath showed might in His arm; He hath scattered the proud in the conceit of their heart.

He hath put down the mighty from their seat; and hath exalted the humble. He hath filled the hungry with good things; and the rich he hath sent empty away. He hath received Israel His servant, being mindful of His mercy. As He spoke to our fathers, to Abraham and to his seed forever. Amen.
[/font]
Glory Be

[font=arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif]Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Ghost. As it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, world without end. Amen.[/font]

 

[Maggie893]

Day 8 reading and prayers (this is posted early, should be for Saturday)

[font=arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif]Imitation of Christ, by Thomas á Kempis: Book 1, Chapter 13​

Of Resisting Temptations [/font]



[font=arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif]

As long as we live in this world, we cannot be without temptations and tribulations. Hence it is written in Job "Man's life on earth is a temptation." Everyone therefore should be solicitous about his temptations and watch in prayer lest the devil find an opportunity to catch him: who never sleeps, but goes about, seeking whom he can devour. No one is so perfect and holy as sometimes not to have temptations and we can never be wholly free from them. Nevertheless, temptations are very profitable to man, troublesome and grievous though they may be, for in them, a man is humbled, purified and instructed. All the Saints passed through many tribulations and temptations and were purified by them. And they that could not support temptations, became reprobate, and fell away.

Many seek to flee temptations, and fall worse into them. We cannot conquer by flight alone, but by patience and true humility we become stronger than all our enemies. He who only declines them outwardly, and does not pluck out their root, will profit little; nay, temptations will sooner return and he will find himself in a worse condition. By degrees and by patience you will, by God's grace, better overcome them than by harshness and your own importunity. Take council the oftener in temptation, and do not deal harshly with one who is tempted; but pour in consolation, as thou wouldst wish to be done unto yourself. Inconstancy of mind and little confidence in God, is the beginning of all temptations. For as a ship without a helm is driven to and fro by the waves, so the man who neglects and gives up his resolutions is tempted in many ways.
​

Veni Creator

[font=arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif]Come, Holy Spirit, Creator blest,
and in our souls take up Thy rest;
come with Thy grace and heavenly aid
to fill the hearts which Thou hast made. [/font]

[font=arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif]O comforter, to Thee we cry,
O heavenly gift of God Most High,
O fount of life and fire of love,
and sweet anointing from above. [/font]

[font=arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif]Thou in Thy sevenfold gifts are known;
Thou, finger of God's hand we own;
Thou, promise of the Father,
Thou Who dost the tongue with power imbue. [/font]

[font=arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif]Kindle our sense from above,
and make our hearts o'erflow with love;
with patience firm and virtue high
the weakness of our flesh supply.[/font]

[font=arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif]Far from us drive the foe we dread,
and grant us Thy peace instead;
so shall we not, with Thee for guide,
turn from the path of life aside. [/font]

[font=arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif]Oh, may Thy grace on us bestow
the Father and the Son to know;
and Thee, through endless times confessed,
of both the eternal Spirit blest. [/font]

[font=arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif]Now to the Father and the Son,
Who rose from death, be glory given,
with Thou, O Holy Comforter,
henceforth by all in earth and heaven. Amen.[/font]

Ave Maris Stella

[font=arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif]Hail, O Star of the ocean,
God's own Mother blest,
ever sinless Virgin,
gate of heav'nly rest. [/font]

[font=arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif]Taking that sweet Ave,
which from Gabriel came,
peace confirm within us,
changing Eve's name. [/font]

[font=arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif]Break the sinners' fetters,
make our blindness day,
Chase all evils from us,
for all blessings pray. [/font]

[font=arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif]Show thyself a Mother,
may the Word divine
born for us thine Infant
hear our prayers through thine. [/font]

[font=arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif]Virgin all excelling,
mildest of the mild,
free from guilt preserve us
meek and undefiled. [/font]

[font=arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif]Keep our life all spotless,
make our way secure
till we find in Jesus,
joy for evermore. [/font]

[font=arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif]Praise to God the Father,
honor to the Son,
in the Holy Spirit,
be the glory one. Amen.
[/font]
Magnificat

[font=arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif]My soul doth magnify the Lord. And my spirit hath rejoiced in God my Savior. Because He hath regarded the humility of His handmaid; for behold, from henceforth all generations shall call me blessed. Because He that is mighty hath done great things to me; and holy is His name. And His mercy is from generation to generations, to them that fear Him. He hath showed might in His arm; He hath scattered the proud in the conceit of their heart.

He hath put down the mighty from their seat; and hath exalted the humble. He hath filled the hungry with good things; and the rich he hath sent empty away. He hath received Israel His servant, being mindful of His mercy. As He spoke to our fathers, to Abraham and to his seed forever. Amen.
[/font]
Glory Be

[font=arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif]Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Ghost. As it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, world without end. Amen.[/font]

[/font]

 

[Maggie893]

Day 9 Readings and Prayers (these are posted early, should be for Sunday)




[font=arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif]Imitation of Christ, by Thomas á Kempis: Book 1, Chapter 13, cont.[/font]

[font=arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif]Fire tries iron, and temptation a just man. We often know not what we are able to do, but temptations discover what we are. Still, we must watch, especially in the beginning of temptation; for then the enemy is more easily overcome, if he be not suffered to enter the door of the mind, but is withstood upon the threshold the very moment he knocks. Whence a certain one has said "Resist beginnings; all too late the cure." When ills have gathered strength, by long delay, first there comes from the mind a simple thought; then a strong imagination, afterwards delight, and the evil motion and consent and so, little by little the fiend does gain entrance, when he is not resisted in the beginning. The longer anyone has been slothful in resisting, so much the weaker he becomes, daily in himself, and the enemy, so much the stronger in him. Some suffer grievous temptations in the beginning of their conversion, others in the end and others are troubled nearly their whole life. Some are very lightly tempted, according to the wisdom and the equity of the ordinance of God who weighs man's condition and merits, and pre-ordaineth all things for the salvation of His elect. We must not, therefore, despair when we are tempted, but the more fervently pray to God to help us in every tribulation: Who, of a truth, according to the sayings of St. Paul, will make such issue with the temptation, that we are able to sustain it.


Let us then humble our souls under the hand of God in every temptation and tribulation, for the humble in spirit, He will save and exalt. In temptation and tribulations, it is proved what progress man has made; and there also is great merit, and virtue is made more manifest. [/font]

​

Veni Creator

[font=arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif]Come, Holy Spirit, Creator blest,
and in our souls take up Thy rest;
come with Thy grace and heavenly aid
to fill the hearts which Thou hast made. [/font]

[font=arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif]O comforter, to Thee we cry,
O heavenly gift of God Most High,
O fount of life and fire of love,
and sweet anointing from above. [/font]

[font=arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif]Thou in Thy sevenfold gifts are known;
Thou, finger of God's hand we own;
Thou, promise of the Father,
Thou Who dost the tongue with power imbue. [/font]

[font=arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif]Kindle our sense from above,
and make our hearts o'erflow with love;
with patience firm and virtue high
the weakness of our flesh supply.[/font]

[font=arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif]Far from us drive the foe we dread,
and grant us Thy peace instead;
so shall we not, with Thee for guide,
turn from the path of life aside. [/font]

[font=arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif]Oh, may Thy grace on us bestow
the Father and the Son to know;
and Thee, through endless times confessed,
of both the eternal Spirit blest. [/font]

[font=arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif]Now to the Father and the Son,
Who rose from death, be glory given,
with Thou, O Holy Comforter,
henceforth by all in earth and heaven. Amen.[/font]

Ave Maris Stella

[font=arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif]Hail, O Star of the ocean,
God's own Mother blest,
ever sinless Virgin,
gate of heav'nly rest. [/font]

[font=arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif]Taking that sweet Ave,
which from Gabriel came,
peace confirm within us,
changing Eve's name. [/font]

[font=arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif]Break the sinners' fetters,
make our blindness day,
Chase all evils from us,
for all blessings pray. [/font]

[font=arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif]Show thyself a Mother,
may the Word divine
born for us thine Infant
hear our prayers through thine. [/font]

[font=arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif]Virgin all excelling,
mildest of the mild,
free from guilt preserve us
meek and undefiled. [/font]

[font=arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif]Keep our life all spotless,
make our way secure
till we find in Jesus,
joy for evermore. [/font]

[font=arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif]Praise to God the Father,
honor to the Son,
in the Holy Spirit,
be the glory one. Amen.
[/font]
Magnificat

[font=arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif]My soul doth magnify the Lord. And my spirit hath rejoiced in God my Savior. Because He hath regarded the humility of His handmaid; for behold, from henceforth all generations shall call me blessed. Because He that is mighty hath done great things to me; and holy is His name. And His mercy is from generation to generations, to them that fear Him. He hath showed might in His arm; He hath scattered the proud in the conceit of their heart.

He hath put down the mighty from their seat; and hath exalted the humble. He hath filled the hungry with good things; and the rich he hath sent empty away. He hath received Israel His servant, being mindful of His mercy. As He spoke to our fathers, to Abraham and to his seed forever. Amen.
[/font]
Glory Be

[font=arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif]Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Ghost. As it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, world without end. Amen.[/font]

 

[Maggie893]

Day 10 Readings and Prayers

[font=arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif]Imitation of Christ, by Thomas á Kempis: Book 3, Chapter 10


That it is sweet to despise the world and to serve God[/font]

[font=arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif]Now, will I speak again, O Lord, and will not be silent, I will say in the hearing of my God and my King Who is on high: Oh, how great is the abundance of Thy sweetness, O Lord, which Thou hast hidden for those that fear Thee! But what art Thou, for those who love Thee? What, to those who serve Thee with their whole heart? Unspeakable indeed is the sweetness of Thy contemplation, which Thou bestowest on those who love Thee. In this most of all hast Thou showed me the sweetness of Thy love, that when I had no being, Thou didst make me; and when I was straying far from Thee, Thou brought me back again, that I might serve Thee: and Thou hast commanded me to serve Thee. O Fountain of everlasting love, what shall I say of Thee? How can I forget Thee, Who hast vouchsafed to remember me even after I was corrupted and lost? Beyond all hope Thou showest mercy to Thy servant; and beyond all desert, hast Thou manifested Thy grace and friendship. What return shall I make to Thee for this favor? For it is granted to all who forsake these things, to renounce the world, and to assume the monastic life. Is it much that I should serve Thee, Whom the whole creation is bound to serve? It ought not to seem much to me to serve Thee; but this does rather appear great and wonderful to me, that Thou vouchsafest to receive one so wretched and unworthy as Thy servant. It is a great honor, a great glory, to serve Thee, and to despise all things for Thee, for they who willingly subject themselves to Thy holy service, shall have great grace. They shall experience the most sweet consolation of the Holy Spirit, Who for the love of Thee, have cast aside all carnal delight. [/font]


​

Veni Creator

[font=arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif]Come, Holy Spirit, Creator blest,
and in our souls take up Thy rest;
come with Thy grace and heavenly aid
to fill the hearts which Thou hast made. [/font]

[font=arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif]O comforter, to Thee we cry,
O heavenly gift of God Most High,
O fount of life and fire of love,
and sweet anointing from above. [/font]

[font=arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif]Thou in Thy sevenfold gifts are known;
Thou, finger of God's hand we own;
Thou, promise of the Father,
Thou Who dost the tongue with power imbue. [/font]

[font=arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif]Kindle our sense from above,
and make our hearts o'erflow with love;
with patience firm and virtue high
the weakness of our flesh supply.[/font]

[font=arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif]Far from us drive the foe we dread,
and grant us Thy peace instead;
so shall we not, with Thee for guide,
turn from the path of life aside. [/font]

[font=arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif]Oh, may Thy grace on us bestow
the Father and the Son to know;
and Thee, through endless times confessed,
of both the eternal Spirit blest. [/font]

[font=arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif]Now to the Father and the Son,
Who rose from death, be glory given,
with Thou, O Holy Comforter,
henceforth by all in earth and heaven. Amen.[/font]

Ave Maris Stella

[font=arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif]Hail, O Star of the ocean,
God's own Mother blest,
ever sinless Virgin,
gate of heav'nly rest. [/font]

[font=arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif]Taking that sweet Ave,
which from Gabriel came,
peace confirm within us,
changing Eve's name. [/font]

[font=arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif]Break the sinners' fetters,
make our blindness day,
Chase all evils from us,
for all blessings pray. [/font]

[font=arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif]Show thyself a Mother,
may the Word divine
born for us thine Infant
hear our prayers through thine. [/font]

[font=arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif]Virgin all excelling,
mildest of the mild,
free from guilt preserve us
meek and undefiled. [/font]

[font=arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif]Keep our life all spotless,
make our way secure
till we find in Jesus,
joy for evermore. [/font]

[font=arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif]Praise to God the Father,
honor to the Son,
in the Holy Spirit,
be the glory one. Amen.
[/font]
Magnificat

[font=arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif]My soul doth magnify the Lord. And my spirit hath rejoiced in God my Savior. Because He hath regarded the humility of His handmaid; for behold, from henceforth all generations shall call me blessed. Because He that is mighty hath done great things to me; and holy is His name. And His mercy is from generation to generations, to them that fear Him. He hath showed might in His arm; He hath scattered the proud in the conceit of their heart.

He hath put down the mighty from their seat; and hath exalted the humble. He hath filled the hungry with good things; and the rich he hath sent empty away. He hath received Israel His servant, being mindful of His mercy. As He spoke to our fathers, to Abraham and to his seed forever. Amen.
[/font]
Glory Be

[font=arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif]Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Ghost. As it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, world without end. Amen.[/font]

 

[Maggie893]

Day 11 Prayers and Readings

[font=arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif]Imitation of Christ, by Thomas á Kempis: Book 1, Chapter 25


On the Fervent Amendment of our Whole Life[/font]

[font=arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif]When a certain anxious person, who often times wavered between hope and fear, once overcome with sadness, threw himself upon the ground in prayer, before one of the altars in the Church and thinking these things in his mind, said "Oh, if I only knew how to persevere," that very instant he heard within him, this heavenly answer: "And if thou didst know this, what would thou do? Do now what you would do, and thou shall be perfectly secure." And immediately being consoled, and comforted, he committed himself to the Divine Will, and his anxious thoughts ceased. He no longer wished for curious things; searching to find out what would happen to him, but studied rather to learn what was the acceptable and perfect will of God for the beginning and the perfection of every good work.


"Hope in the Lord," said the Prophet, "And do all good, and inhabit the land, and thou shall be fed of the riches thereof." There is one thing that keeps many back from spiritual progress, and from fervor in amendment namely: the labor that is necessary for the struggle. And assuredly they especially advance beyond others in virtues, who strive the most manfully to overcome the very things which are the hardest and most contrary to them. For there a man does profit more and merit more abundant grace, when he does most to overcome himself and mortify his spirit. All have not, indeed, equal difficulties to overcome and mortify, but a diligent and zealous person will make a greater progress though he have more passions than another, who is well regulated but less fervent in the pursuit of virtues. [/font]

​

Veni Creator


[font=arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif]Come, Holy Spirit, Creator blest,
and in our souls take up Thy rest;
come with Thy grace and heavenly aid
to fill the hearts which Thou hast made. [/font]

[font=arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif]O comforter, to Thee we cry,
O heavenly gift of God Most High,
O fount of life and fire of love,
and sweet anointing from above. [/font]

[font=arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif]Thou in Thy sevenfold gifts are known;
Thou, finger of God's hand we own;
Thou, promise of the Father,
Thou Who dost the tongue with power imbue. [/font]

[font=arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif]Kindle our sense from above,
and make our hearts o'erflow with love;
with patience firm and virtue high
the weakness of our flesh supply.[/font]

[font=arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif]Far from us drive the foe we dread,
and grant us Thy peace instead;
so shall we not, with Thee for guide,
turn from the path of life aside. [/font]

[font=arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif]Oh, may Thy grace on us bestow
the Father and the Son to know;
and Thee, through endless times confessed,
of both the eternal Spirit blest. [/font]

[font=arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif]Now to the Father and the Son,
Who rose from death, be glory given,
with Thou, O Holy Comforter,
henceforth by all in earth and heaven. Amen.[/font]

Ave Maris Stella

[font=arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif]Hail, O Star of the ocean,
God's own Mother blest,
ever sinless Virgin,
gate of heav'nly rest. [/font]

[font=arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif]Taking that sweet Ave,
which from Gabriel came,
peace confirm within us,
changing Eve's name. [/font]

[font=arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif]Break the sinners' fetters,
make our blindness day,
Chase all evils from us,
for all blessings pray. [/font]

[font=arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif]Show thyself a Mother,
may the Word divine
born for us thine Infant
hear our prayers through thine. [/font]

[font=arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif]Virgin all excelling,
mildest of the mild,
free from guilt preserve us
meek and undefiled. [/font]

[font=arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif]Keep our life all spotless,
make our way secure
till we find in Jesus,
joy for evermore. [/font]

[font=arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif]Praise to God the Father,
honor to the Son,
in the Holy Spirit,
be the glory one. Amen.
[/font]
Magnificat


[font=arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif]My soul doth magnify the Lord. And my spirit hath rejoiced in God my Savior. Because He hath regarded the humility of His handmaid; for behold, from henceforth all generations shall call me blessed. Because He that is mighty hath done great things to me; and holy is His name. And His mercy is from generation to generations, to them that fear Him. He hath showed might in His arm; He hath scattered the proud in the conceit of their heart.

He hath put down the mighty from their seat; and hath exalted the humble. He hath filled the hungry with good things; and the rich he hath sent empty away. He hath received Israel His servant, being mindful of His mercy. As He spoke to our fathers, to Abraham and to his seed forever. Amen.
[/font]
Glory Be

[font=arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif]Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Ghost. As it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, world without end. Amen.[/font]

 

[Maggie893]

Day 12 Readings and Prayers (Last day of prep)

[font=arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif]Imitation of Christ, by Thomas á Kempis: Book 1, Chapter 25., cont.[/font]

[font=arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif]But if thou observest any thing worthy of reproof, beware thou do not the same. And if at any time thou hast done it, labor quickly to amend thyself. As thine eye observeth others, so art thou by others noted again. ​

How sweet and pleasant a thing it is, to see brethren fervent and devout, obedient and well-disciplined! How sad and grievous a thing it is, to see them walk disorderly, not applying themselves to that for which they are called! How hurtful a thing it is, when they neglect the purpose of their calling and busy themselves in things not committed to their care!

Be mindful of the purpose thou hast embraced, and set always before thee the image of the Crucified. Good cause thou hast to be ashamed in looking upon the life of Jesus Christ, seeing thou hast not as yet endeavored to conform thyself more unto Him, though thou hast been a long time in the way of God. A religious person that exercizeth himself seriously and devoutly in the most holy life and passion of our Lord, shall there abundantly find whatsoever is profitable and necessary for him, neither shall he need to seek any better thing, besides Jesus. O if Jesus crucified would come into our hearts, how quickly and fully should we be. A man fervent and diligent is prepared for all things.

It is harder toil to resist vices and passions, than to sweat in bodily labors. He that avoideth not small faults, by little and little falleth into greater. Thou wilt always rejoice in the evening, if thou spend the day profitably. Be watchful over thyself, stir up thyself, warn thyself, and whatsoever becometh of others, neglect not thyself. The more violent thou uses against thyself, the more shalt thou progress. Amen. [/font]



Veni Creator

[font=arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif]Come, Holy Spirit, Creator blest,
and in our souls take up Thy rest;
come with Thy grace and heavenly aid
to fill the hearts which Thou hast made. [/font]

[font=arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif]O comforter, to Thee we cry,
O heavenly gift of God Most High,
O fount of life and fire of love,
and sweet anointing from above. [/font]

[font=arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif]Thou in Thy sevenfold gifts are known;
Thou, finger of God's hand we own;
Thou, promise of the Father,
Thou Who dost the tongue with power imbue. [/font]

[font=arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif]Kindle our sense from above,
and make our hearts o'erflow with love;
with patience firm and virtue high
the weakness of our flesh supply.[/font]

[font=arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif]Far from us drive the foe we dread,
and grant us Thy peace instead;
so shall we not, with Thee for guide,
turn from the path of life aside. [/font]

[font=arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif]Oh, may Thy grace on us bestow
the Father and the Son to know;
and Thee, through endless times confessed,
of both the eternal Spirit blest. [/font]

[font=arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif]Now to the Father and the Son,
Who rose from death, be glory given,
with Thou, O Holy Comforter,
henceforth by all in earth and heaven. Amen.
[/font]
Ave Maris Stella

[font=arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif]Hail, O Star of the ocean,
God's own Mother blest,
ever sinless Virgin,
gate of heav'nly rest. [/font]

[font=arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif]Taking that sweet Ave,
which from Gabriel came,
peace confirm within us,
changing Eve's name. [/font]

[font=arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif]Break the sinners' fetters,
make our blindness day,
Chase all evils from us,
for all blessings pray. [/font]

[font=arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif]Show thyself a Mother,
may the Word divine
born for us thine Infant
hear our prayers through thine. [/font]

[font=arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif]Virgin all excelling,
mildest of the mild,
free from guilt preserve us
meek and undefiled. [/font]

[font=arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif]Keep our life all spotless,
make our way secure
till we find in Jesus,
joy for evermore. [/font]

[font=arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif]Praise to God the Father,
honor to the Son,
in the Holy Spirit,
be the glory one. Amen.
[/font]
Magnificat

[font=arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif]My soul doth magnify the Lord. And my spirit hath rejoiced in God my Savior. Because He hath regarded the humility of His handmaid; for behold, from henceforth all generations shall call me blessed. Because He that is mighty hath done great things to me; and holy is His name. And His mercy is from generation to generations, to them that fear Him. He hath showed might in His arm; He hath scattered the proud in the conceit of their heart.

He hath put down the mighty from their seat; and hath exalted the humble. He hath filled the hungry with good things; and the rich he hath sent empty away. He hath received Israel His servant, being mindful of His mercy. As He spoke to our fathers, to Abraham and to his seed forever. Amen.
[/font]
Glory Be

[font=arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif]Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Ghost. As it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, world without end. Amen.[/font]

 

[Maggie893]

Today begins the readings and prayers for the first week before consecration.


[font=arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif]Theme for the Week: Knowledge Of Self[/font]

[font=arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif]Prayers, examinations, reflection, acts of renouncement of our own will, of contrition for our sins, of contempt of self, all performed at the feet of Mary, for it is from her that we hope for light to know ourselves. It is near her, that we shall be able to measure the abyss of our miseries without despairing. ​

We should employ all our pious actions in asking for a knowledge of ourselves and contrition of our sins: and we should do this in a spirit of piety. During this period, we shall consider not so much the opposition that exists between the spirit of Jesus and ours, as the miserable and humiliating state to which our sins have reduced us. Moreover, the True Devotion being an easy, short, sure and perfect way to arrive at that union with Our Lord which is Christlike perfection, we shall enter seriously upon this way, strongly convinced of our misery and helplessness. But how attain this without a knowledge of ourselves'?
[/font]


Day 13 Readings and Prayers




[font=arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif]Luke 11:1-10[/font]

[font=arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif]And it came to pass, that as he was in a certain place praying, when he ceased, one of his disciples said to him: Lord, teach us to pray, as John also taught his disciples. And he said to them: When you pray, say: Father, hallowed be thy name. Thy kingdom come. Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our sins, for we also forgive every one that is indebted to us. And lead us not into temptation.

And he said to them: Which of you shall have a friend, and shall go to him at midnight, and shall say to him: Friend, lend me three loaves, Because a friend of mine is come off his journey to me, and I have not what to set before him. And he from within should answer, and say: Trouble me not, the door is now shut, and my children are with me in bed; I cannot rise and give thee. Yet if he shall continue knocking, I say to you, although he will not rise and give him, because he is his friend; yet, because of his importunity, he will rise, and give him as many as he needeth.

And I say to you, Ask, and it shall be given you: seek, and you shall find: knock, and it shall be opened to you. For every one that asketh, receiveth; and he that seeketh, findeth; and to him that knocketh, it shall be opened. [/font]

​

Litany of the Holy Ghost

[font=arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif]Lord, have mercy on us.
Christ, have mercy on us.
Lord, have mercy on us.

Father all powerful, have mercy on us
Jesus, Eternal Son of the Father, Redeemer of the world, save us.
Spirit of the Father and the Son, boundless life of both, sanctify us.
Holy Trinity, hear us

Holy Ghost, Who proceedest from the Father and the Son, enter our hearts. Holy Ghost, Who art equal to the Father and the Son, enter our hearts.

Promise of God the Father, have mercy on us.
Ray of heavenly light, have mercy on us
Author of all good, have mercy on us
Source of heavenly water, have mercy on us
Consuming fire, have mercy on us
Ardent charity, have mercy on us
Spiritual unction, have mercy on us
Spirit of love and truth, have mercy on us
Spirit of wisdom and understanding, have mercy on us
Spirit of counsel and fortitude, have mercy on us
Spirit of knowledge and piety, have mercy on us
Spirit of the fear of the Lord, have mercy on us
Spirit of grace and prayer, have mercy on us
Spirit of peace and meekness, have mercy on us
Spirit of modesty and innocence, have mercy on us
Holy Ghost, the Comforter, have mercy on us
Holy Ghost, the Sanctifier, have mercy on us
Holy Ghost, Who governest the Church, have mercy on us
Gift of God, the Most High, have mercy on us
Spirit Who fillest the universe, have mercy on us
Spirit of the adoption of the children of God, have mercy on us

Holy Ghost, inspire us with horror of sin.
Holy Ghost, come and renew the face of the earth.
Holy Ghost, shed Thy light in our souls.
Holy Ghost, engrave Thy law in our hearts
Holy Ghost, inflame us with the flame of Thy love.
Holy Ghost, open to us the treasures of Thy graces
Holy Ghost, teach us to pray well.
Holy Ghost, enlighten us with Thy heavenly inspirations.
Holy Ghost, lead us in the way of salvation
Holy Ghost, grant us the only necessary knowledge.
Holy Ghost, inspire in us the practice of good. Holy Ghost, grant us the merits of all virtues.
Holy Ghost, make us persevere in justice.
Holy Ghost, be Thou our everlasting reward.

Lamb of God, Who takest away the sins of the world, Send us Thy Holy Ghost.

Lamb of God, Who takest away the sins of the world, pour down into our souls the gifts of the Holy Ghost.

Lamb of God, Who takest away the sins of the world, grant us the Spirit of wisdom and piety.

V. Come, Holy Ghost! Fill the hearts of Thy faithful,
R. And enkindle in them the fire of Thy love.

Let Us Pray. Grant, Omerciful Father, that Thy Divine Spirit may enlighten, inflame and purify us, that He may penetrate us with His heavenly dew and make us fruitful in good works, through Our Lord Jesus Christ, Thy Son, Who with Thee, in the unity of the same Spirit, liveth and reigneth forever and ever.

R. Amen.
[/font]
Litany of the Blessed Virgin Mary (Litany of Loreto)

[font=arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif]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 Ghost, have mercy on us.
Holy Trinity, One God, have mercy on us.

Holy Mary, pray for us
Holy Mother of God, pray for us.
Holy Virgin of virgins, pray for us.
Mother of Christ, pray for us.
Mother of divine grace, pray for us.
Mother most pure, pray for us.
Mother most chaste, pray for us.
Mother inviolate, pray for us.
Mother undefiled, pray for us.
Mother most amiable, pray for us.
Mother most admirable, pray for us.
Mother of good counsel,pray for us.
Mother of our Creator, pray for us.
Mother of our Saviour, pray for us.
Mother of the Church, pray for us.
Virgin most prudent, pray for us.
Virgin most venerable, pray for us.
Virgin most renowned, pray for us.
Virgin most powerful, pray for us.
Virgin most merciful, pray for us.
Virgin most faithful, pray for us.
Preparation for Consecration, pray for us.
Mirror of justice, pray for us.
Seat of wisdom, pray for us.
Cause of our joy, pray for us.
Vessel of honor, pray for us.
Singular vessel of devotion, pray for us.
Mystical rose, pray for us.
Tower of David, pray for us.
Tower of ivory, pray for us.
House of gold, pray for us.
Ark of the covenant, pray for us.
Gate of Heaven, pray for us.
Morning star, pray for us.
Health of the sick, pray for us.
Refuge of sinners, pray for us.
Comforter of the afflicted, pray for us.
Help of Christians, pray for us.
Queen of angels, pray for us.
Queen of patriarchs, pray for us.
Queen of prophets, pray for us.
Queen of Apostles, pray for us.
Queen of martyrs, pray for us.
Queen of confessors, pray for us.
Queen of virgins, pray for us.
Queen of all saints, pray for us.
Queen conceived without Original Sin, pray for us.
Queen assumed into Heaven, pray for us.
Queen of the most holy Rosary, pray for us.
Queen of peace, pray for us.

Lamb of God, Who takest away the sins of the world, Spare us, O Lord.
Lamb of God, Who takest away the sins of the world, Graciously hear us, O Lord.
Lamb of God, Who takest away the sins of the world, Have mercy on us.

V. Pray for us, O holy Mother of God,
R. That we may be made worthy of the promises of Christ.

Let Us Pray. Grant, we beseech Thee, O Lord God, unto us Thy servants, that we may rejoice in continual health of mind and body, and by the glorious intercession of Blessed Mary, ever virgin, may be delivered from present sadness, and enter into the joy of Thine eternal gladness. Through Christ Our Lord.

R. Amen
[/font]
Ave Maris Stella

[font=arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif]Hail, O Star of the ocean,
God's own Mother blest,
ever sinless Virgin,
gate of heav'nly rest. [/font]

[font=arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif]Taking that sweet Ave,
which from Gabriel came,
peace confirm within us,
changing Eve's name. [/font]

[font=arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif]Break the sinners' fetters,
make our blindness day,
Chase all evils from us,
for all blessings pray. [/font]

[font=arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif]Show thyself a Mother,
may the Word divine
born for us thine Infant
hear our prayers through thine. [/font]

[font=arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif]Virgin all excelling,
mildest of the mild,
free from guilt preserve us
meek and undefiled. [/font][font=arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif]Keep our life all spotless,
make our way secure
till we find in Jesus,
joy for evermore. [/font][font=arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif]Praise to God the Father,
honor to the Son,
in the Holy Spirit,
be the glory one. Amen. [/font]

 

[Maggie893]

Day 14 Readings and Prayers

[font=arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif]Imitation of Christ, by Thomas á Kempis: Book 3, Chapter 13[/font]
[font=arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif]Of the Obedience of One in Humble Subjection,
After the Example of Jesus Christ [/font]

[font=arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif]My son, he that endeavoreth to withdraw himself from obedience, withdraweth himself from grace; and he who seeketh for himself private benefit (Matt. 16:24), loseth those which are common. He that doth not cheerfully and freely submit himself to his superior, it is a sign that his flesh is not as yet perfectly obedient unto him, but oftentimes kicketh and murmureth against him. Learn thou therefore quickly to submit thyself to thy superior, if thou desire to keep thine own flesh under the yoke. For more speedily is the outward enemy overcome, if the inward man be not laid waste. There is no worse nor more troublesome enemy to the soul than thou art unto thyself, if thou be not well in harmony with the Spirit. It is altogether necessary that thou take up a true contempt for thyself, if thou desire to prevail against flesh and blood. Because as yet thou lovest thyself too inordinately, therefore thou art afraid to resign thyself wholly to the will of others. And yet, what great matter is it, if thou, who art but dust and nothing, subject thyself to a man for God's sake, when I, the Almighty and the Most Highest who created all things of nothing, humbly subjected Myself to man for thy sake? ​

I became of all men the most humble and the most abject (Luke 2:7; John 13:14), that thou mightest overcome thy pride with My humility. O dust! learn to be obedient. Learn to humble thyself, thou earth and clay, and to bow thyself down under the feet of all men. Learn to break thine own wishes, and to yield thyself to all subjection.
[/font]

Litany of the Holy Ghost

[font=arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif]Lord, have mercy on us.
Christ, have mercy on us.
Lord, have mercy on us.

Father all powerful, have mercy on us
Jesus, Eternal Son of the Father, Redeemer of the world, save us.
Spirit of the Father and the Son, boundless life of both, sanctify us.
Holy Trinity, hear us

Holy Ghost, Who proceedest from the Father and the Son, enter our hearts. Holy Ghost, Who art equal to the Father and the Son, enter our hearts.

Promise of God the Father, have mercy on us.
Ray of heavenly light, have mercy on us
Author of all good, have mercy on us
Source of heavenly water, have mercy on us
Consuming fire, have mercy on us
Ardent charity, have mercy on us
Spiritual unction, have mercy on us
Spirit of love and truth, have mercy on us
Spirit of wisdom and understanding, have mercy on us
Spirit of counsel and fortitude, have mercy on us
Spirit of knowledge and piety, have mercy on us
Spirit of the fear of the Lord, have mercy on us
Spirit of grace and prayer, have mercy on us
Spirit of peace and meekness, have mercy on us
Spirit of modesty and innocence, have mercy on us
Holy Ghost, the Comforter, have mercy on us
Holy Ghost, the Sanctifier, have mercy on us
Holy Ghost, Who governest the Church, have mercy on us
Gift of God, the Most High, have mercy on us
Spirit Who fillest the universe, have mercy on us
Spirit of the adoption of the children of God, have mercy on us

Holy Ghost, inspire us with horror of sin.
Holy Ghost, come and renew the face of the earth.
Holy Ghost, shed Thy light in our souls.
Holy Ghost, engrave Thy law in our hearts
Holy Ghost, inflame us with the flame of Thy love.
Holy Ghost, open to us the treasures of Thy graces
Holy Ghost, teach us to pray well.
Holy Ghost, enlighten us with Thy heavenly inspirations.
Holy Ghost, lead us in the way of salvation
Holy Ghost, grant us the only necessary knowledge.
Holy Ghost, inspire in us the practice of good. Holy Ghost, grant us the merits of all virtues.
Holy Ghost, make us persevere in justice.
Holy Ghost, be Thou our everlasting reward.

Lamb of God, Who takest away the sins of the world, Send us Thy Holy Ghost.

Lamb of God, Who takest away the sins of the world, pour down into our souls the gifts of the Holy Ghost.

Lamb of God, Who takest away the sins of the world, grant us the Spirit of wisdom and piety.

V. Come, Holy Ghost! Fill the hearts of Thy faithful,
R. And enkindle in them the fire of Thy love.

Let Us Pray. Grant, Omerciful Father, that Thy Divine Spirit may enlighten, inflame and purify us, that He may penetrate us with His heavenly dew and make us fruitful in good works, through Our Lord Jesus Christ, Thy Son, Who with Thee, in the unity of the same Spirit, liveth and reigneth forever and ever.

R. Amen.
[/font]
Litany of the Blessed Virgin Mary (Litany of Loreto)


[font=arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif]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 Ghost, have mercy on us.
Holy Trinity, One God, have mercy on us.

Holy Mary, pray for us
Holy Mother of God, pray for us.
Holy Virgin of virgins, pray for us.
Mother of Christ, pray for us.
Mother of divine grace, pray for us.
Mother most pure, pray for us.
Mother most chaste, pray for us.
Mother inviolate, pray for us.
Mother undefiled, pray for us.
Mother most amiable, pray for us.
Mother most admirable, pray for us.
Mother of good counsel,pray for us.
Mother of our Creator, pray for us.
Mother of our Saviour, pray for us.
Mother of the Church, pray for us.
Virgin most prudent, pray for us.
Virgin most venerable, pray for us.
Virgin most renowned, pray for us.
Virgin most powerful, pray for us.
Virgin most merciful, pray for us.
Virgin most faithful, pray for us.
Preparation for Consecration, pray for us.
Mirror of justice, pray for us.
Seat of wisdom, pray for us.
Cause of our joy, pray for us.
Vessel of honor, pray for us.
Singular vessel of devotion, pray for us.
Mystical rose, pray for us.
Tower of David, pray for us.
Tower of ivory, pray for us.
House of gold, pray for us.
Ark of the covenant, pray for us.
Gate of Heaven, pray for us.
Morning star, pray for us.
Health of the sick, pray for us.
Refuge of sinners, pray for us.
Comforter of the afflicted, pray for us.
Help of Christians, pray for us.
Queen of angels, pray for us.
Queen of patriarchs, pray for us.
Queen of prophets, pray for us.
Queen of Apostles, pray for us.
Queen of martyrs, pray for us.
Queen of confessors, pray for us.
Queen of virgins, pray for us.
Queen of all saints, pray for us.
Queen conceived without Original Sin, pray for us.
Queen assumed into Heaven, pray for us.
Queen of the most holy Rosary, pray for us.
Queen of peace, pray for us.

Lamb of God, Who takest away the sins of the world, Spare us, O Lord.
Lamb of God, Who takest away the sins of the world, Graciously hear us, O Lord.
Lamb of God, Who takest away the sins of the world, Have mercy on us.

V. Pray for us, O holy Mother of God,
R. That we may be made worthy of the promises of Christ.

Let Us Pray. Grant, we beseech Thee, O Lord God, unto us Thy servants, that we may rejoice in continual health of mind and body, and by the glorious intercession of Blessed Mary, ever virgin, may be delivered from present sadness, and enter into the joy of Thine eternal gladness. Through Christ Our Lord.

R. Amen
[/font]
Ave Maris Stella

[font=arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif]Hail, O Star of the ocean,
God's own Mother blest,
ever sinless Virgin,
gate of heav'nly rest. [/font]

[font=arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif]Taking that sweet Ave,
which from Gabriel came,
peace confirm within us,
changing Eve's name. [/font]

[font=arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif]Break the sinners' fetters,
make our blindness day,
Chase all evils from us,
for all blessings pray. [/font]

[font=arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif]Show thyself a Mother,
may the Word divine
born for us thine Infant
hear our prayers through thine. [/font]

[font=arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif]Virgin all excelling,
mildest of the mild,
free from guilt preserve us
meek and undefiled. [/font]

[font=arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif]Keep our life all spotless,
make our way secure
till we find in Jesus,
joy for evermore. [/font][font=arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif]Praise to God the Father,
honor to the Son,
in the Holy Spirit,
be the glory one. Amen.[/font]

 

[Maggie893]

Day 15 Readings and Prayers

[font=arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif]Luke 13:1-5
Examples inviting Repentance[/font]

[font=arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif]And there were present, at that very time, some that told him of the Galileans, whose blood Pilate had mingled with their sacrifices. And he answering, said to them: Think you that these Galileans were sinners above all the men of Galilee, because they suffered such things? No, I say to you: but unless you shall do penance, you shall all likewise perish. Or those eighteen upon whom the tower fell in Siloe, and slew them: think you, that they also were debtors above all the men that dwelt in Jerusalem? No, I say to you; but except you do penance, you shall all likewise perish. [/font]


[font=arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif]True Devotion to the Blessed Virgin Mary, Nos. 81 and 82


We Need Mary in order to Die to Ourselves [/font]

[font=arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif]Secondly, in order to empty ourselves of self, we must die daily to ourselves. This involves our renouncing what the powers of the soul and the senses of the body incline us to do. We must see as if we did not see, hear as if we did not hear and use the things of this world as if we did not use them. This is what St. Paul calls "dying daily". Unless the grain of wheat falls to the ground and dies, it remains only a single grain and does not bear any good fruit. If we do not die to self and if our holiest devotions do not lead us to this necessary and fruitful death, we shall not bear fruit of any worth and our devotions will cease to be profitable. All our good works will be tainted by self-love and self-will so that our greatest sacrifices and our best actions will be unacceptable to God. Consequently when we come to die we shall find ourselves devoid of virtue and merit and discover that we do not possess even one spark of that pure love which God shares only with those who have died to themselves and whose life is hidden with Jesus Christ in him.


Thirdly, we must choose among all the devotions to the Blessed Virgin the one which will lead us more surely to this dying to self. This devotion will be the best and the most sanctifying for us. [/font]

​

Litany of the Holy Ghost

[font=arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif]Lord, have mercy on us.
Christ, have mercy on us.
Lord, have mercy on us.

Father all powerful, have mercy on us
Jesus, Eternal Son of the Father, Redeemer of the world, save us.
Spirit of the Father and the Son, boundless life of both, sanctify us.
Holy Trinity, hear us

Holy Ghost, Who proceedest from the Father and the Son, enter our hearts. Holy Ghost, Who art equal to the Father and the Son, enter our hearts.

Promise of God the Father, have mercy on us.
Ray of heavenly light, have mercy on us
Author of all good, have mercy on us
Source of heavenly water, have mercy on us
Consuming fire, have mercy on us
Ardent charity, have mercy on us
Spiritual unction, have mercy on us
Spirit of love and truth, have mercy on us
Spirit of wisdom and understanding, have mercy on us
Spirit of counsel and fortitude, have mercy on us
Spirit of knowledge and piety, have mercy on us
Spirit of the fear of the Lord, have mercy on us
Spirit of grace and prayer, have mercy on us
Spirit of peace and meekness, have mercy on us
Spirit of modesty and innocence, have mercy on us
Holy Ghost, the Comforter, have mercy on us
Holy Ghost, the Sanctifier, have mercy on us
Holy Ghost, Who governest the Church, have mercy on us
Gift of God, the Most High, have mercy on us
Spirit Who fillest the universe, have mercy on us
Spirit of the adoption of the children of God, have mercy on us

Holy Ghost, inspire us with horror of sin.
Holy Ghost, come and renew the face of the earth.
Holy Ghost, shed Thy light in our souls.
Holy Ghost, engrave Thy law in our hearts
Holy Ghost, inflame us with the flame of Thy love.
Holy Ghost, open to us the treasures of Thy graces
Holy Ghost, teach us to pray well.
Holy Ghost, enlighten us with Thy heavenly inspirations.
Holy Ghost, lead us in the way of salvation
Holy Ghost, grant us the only necessary knowledge.
Holy Ghost, inspire in us the practice of good. Holy Ghost, grant us the merits of all virtues.
Holy Ghost, make us persevere in justice.
Holy Ghost, be Thou our everlasting reward.

Lamb of God, Who takest away the sins of the world, Send us Thy Holy Ghost.

Lamb of God, Who takest away the sins of the world, pour down into our souls the gifts of the Holy Ghost.

Lamb of God, Who takest away the sins of the world, grant us the Spirit of wisdom and piety.

V. Come, Holy Ghost! Fill the hearts of Thy faithful,
R. And enkindle in them the fire of Thy love.

Let Us Pray. Grant, Omerciful Father, that Thy Divine Spirit may enlighten, inflame and purify us, that He may penetrate us with His heavenly dew and make us fruitful in good works, through Our Lord Jesus Christ, Thy Son, Who with Thee, in the unity of the same Spirit, liveth and reigneth forever and ever.

R. Amen.
[/font]
Litany of the Blessed Virgin Mary (Litany of Loreto)

[font=arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif]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 Ghost, have mercy on us.
Holy Trinity, One God, have mercy on us.

Holy Mary, pray for us
Holy Mother of God, pray for us.
Holy Virgin of virgins, pray for us.
Mother of Christ, pray for us.
Mother of divine grace, pray for us.
Mother most pure, pray for us.
Mother most chaste, pray for us.
Mother inviolate, pray for us.
Mother undefiled, pray for us.
Mother most amiable, pray for us.
Mother most admirable, pray for us.
Mother of good counsel,pray for us.
Mother of our Creator, pray for us.
Mother of our Saviour, pray for us.
Mother of the Church, pray for us.
Virgin most prudent, pray for us.
Virgin most venerable, pray for us.
Virgin most renowned, pray for us.
Virgin most powerful, pray for us.
Virgin most merciful, pray for us.
Virgin most faithful, pray for us.
Preparation for Consecration, pray for us.
Mirror of justice, pray for us.
Seat of wisdom, pray for us.
Cause of our joy, pray for us.
Vessel of honor, pray for us.
Singular vessel of devotion, pray for us.
Mystical rose, pray for us.
Tower of David, pray for us.
Tower of ivory, pray for us.
House of gold, pray for us.
Ark of the covenant, pray for us.
Gate of Heaven, pray for us.
Morning star, pray for us.
Health of the sick, pray for us.
Refuge of sinners, pray for us.
Comforter of the afflicted, pray for us.
Help of Christians, pray for us.
Queen of angels, pray for us.
Queen of patriarchs, pray for us.
Queen of prophets, pray for us.
Queen of Apostles, pray for us.
Queen of martyrs, pray for us.
Queen of confessors, pray for us.
Queen of virgins, pray for us.
Queen of all saints, pray for us.
Queen conceived without Original Sin, pray for us.
Queen assumed into Heaven, pray for us.
Queen of the most holy Rosary, pray for us.
Queen of peace, pray for us.

Lamb of God, Who takest away the sins of the world, Spare us, O Lord.
Lamb of God, Who takest away the sins of the world, Graciously hear us, O Lord.
Lamb of God, Who takest away the sins of the world, Have mercy on us.

V. Pray for us, O holy Mother of God,
R. That we may be made worthy of the promises of Christ.

Let Us Pray. Grant, we beseech Thee, O Lord God, unto us Thy servants, that we may rejoice in continual health of mind and body, and by the glorious intercession of Blessed Mary, ever virgin, may be delivered from present sadness, and enter into the joy of Thine eternal gladness. Through Christ Our Lord.

R. Amen
[/font]
Ave Maris Stella

[font=arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif]Hail, O Star of the ocean,
God's own Mother blest,
ever sinless Virgin,
gate of heav'nly rest. [/font]

[font=arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif]Taking that sweet Ave,
which from Gabriel came,
peace confirm within us,
changing Eve's name. [/font]

[font=arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif]Break the sinners' fetters,
make our blindness day,
Chase all evils from us,
for all blessings pray. [/font]

[font=arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif]Show thyself a Mother,
may the Word divine
born for us thine Infant
hear our prayers through thine. [/font]

[font=arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif]Virgin all excelling,
mildest of the mild,
free from guilt preserve us
meek and undefiled. [/font]

[font=arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif]Keep our life all spotless,
make our way secure
till we find in Jesus,
joy for evermore. [/font][font=arial, helvetica, verdana, sans-serif]Praise to God the Father,
honor to the Son,
in the Holy Spirit,
be the glory one. Amen. [/font]