Troubling Times Call for Worldwide Prayer
Saint Cyril was no stranger to troubled times, as he spent almost half of his 35 years as a bishop of Jerusalem in exile over vehement disagreement in the 4th century.
Today, we too find ourselves in troubled times as war rages on in the Ukraine. As we shared Wednesday, Pope Francis will consecrate Russia and Ukraine to the Immaculate Heart of Mary on March 25th, the Solemnity of the Annunciation. In preparation, Ukrainian Archbishop Mieczyslaw Mokrzycki has called for a worldwide novena to begin on the 9 days leading up to the consecration. It just so happens this was yesterday, March 17th, however we had already published yesterday's issue before we could get this out to you.
That means today, March 18th, begins day 2 of the novena. But don't worry! We will be joining the many who have chosen to pray the Annunciation Novena, including the Knights of Columbus, which recites the same prayer all 9 days. This means that if you hadn't already started, you can simply say today's prayer twice. We will continue to include the prayer for the remaining days right here in The Harvest, as well as details on streaming the consecration live on the 25th.
With all that being said, let us pray…
Annunciation Novena in Preparation for Consecration of Ukraine and Russia – Day 2
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In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit, Amen ✝
I greet you, Ever-blessed Virgin, Mother of God, Throne of Grace, miracle of Almighty Power! I greet you, Sanctuary of the Most Holy Trinity and Queen of the Universe, Mother of Mercy and refuge of sinners!
Most loving Mother, attracted by your beauty and sweetness, and by your tender compassion, I confidently turn to you, miserable as I am, and beg of you to obtain for me from your dear Son the favor I request in this novena: for the consecration of Russia and Ukraine to your Immaculate Heart.
Obtain for me also, Queen of heaven, the most lively contrition for my many sins and the grace to imitate closely those virtues which you practiced so faithfully, especially humility, purity and obedience. Above all, I beg you to be my Mother and Protectress, to receive me into the number of your devoted children, and to guide me from your high throne of glory.
Do not reject my petitions, Mother of Mercy! Have pity on me, and do not abandon me during life or at the moment of my death. Amen.
But isn't doubling up on novenas kinda cheating? Let's see what Mother Teresa thinks…
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Jeff Young
The Catholic Foodie
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When facing difficult circumstances, she did not pray this prayers just once. No. She would offer an “express” novena. Nine Memorares in a row. And, as you will read below, she always prayed a 10th Memorare in thanksgiving, confident that her prayers would be answered.
Prayer is not magic. No. Prayer is a relationship, a conversation with the greatest friend in the universe. Mother Teresa did not pray this express novena as a magic formula, rather she prayed from the heart knowing that God would act. This repetitive prayer was a tangible expression of her great faith in God.
We can learn from Mother Teresa, and we can be edified and encouraged by her simple yet great faith. She can help us to grow in faith. That is why I want to share this story with you. It’s just one example of Mother Teresa’s confidence in Our Lady’s intercession.
(12 Minute Read)
“The stone that the builders rejected
has become the cornerstone;
by the Lord has this been done,
and it is wonderful in our eyes”
– Matthew 21:42
Resolution Inspiration
Fasting each Wednesday with bread and water, start the devotion of the first five Saturday of the month, try to work on my draw backs (impulsivity and impatience), go on faithfully with the daily Rosaries for the needs of everybody.
– Giovanna from Italy
I am praying on the online Endow podcast about St. Theresa of Avila, as well as, on the Science of Sainthood, by Matthew Leonard. I am praying my rosary for Ukraine and for God to rid me of any sins that may be blocking an open heart.
– Anonymous
That's enough to take in for one day. Thank you for your commitment to uniting in universal prayer 🙏🌏🇺🇦
A.M.D.G.