November 21, 2024

Prayers

Powerful Prayer to St Peregrine for Cancer Patients

Mother & Refuge05 mins

Are you suffering from cancer? Or do you know someone who is? These prayers to St. Peregrine can give you hope! This first one is for those afflicted with this deadly disease: St. Peregrine, whom Holy Mother Church has declared Patron of those suffering from Cancer, I confidently turn to you for help in my present sickness. I beg your kind intercession. Ask God to relieve me of this sickness, if it be his Holy Will. Plead with the Blessed Virgin Mary, the Mother of Sorrows, whom you loved so tenderly and in union with whom you have suffered the pains of Cancer, that she may help me with her powerful prayers and loving consolation. But if it should be God’s Holy Will that I bear this sickness, obtain for me courage and strength to accept these trials from the loving hand of God with patience and resignation, because he knows what is best for the salvation of my soul. St. Peregrine, be my friend and patron. Help me to imitate you in accepting suffering, and to unite myself with Jesus Crucified and the Mother of Sorrows, as you did. I offer my pains to God with all the love of my heart, for his glory and the salvation of souls, especially my own. Amen. The second of these prayers to St. Peregrine is for others’ intentions. O great St. Peregrine, you have been called “The Mighty,” “The Wonder-Worker,” because of the numerous miracles which you have obtained from God for those who have had recourse to you. For so many years you bore in your own flesh this cancerous disease that destroys the very fiber of our being, and who had recourse to the source of all grace when the power of man could do no more. You were favored with the vision of Jesus coming down from His Cross to heal your affliction. Ask of God and Our Lady, the cure of the sick whom we entrust to you. (Pause here and silently recall the names of the sick for whom you are praying) Aided in this way by your powerful intercession, we shall sing to God, now and for all eternity, a song of gratitude for His great goodness and mercy. Amen. St. Peregrine is known as the patron saint of cancer patients, AIDS victims and others suffering from serious illnesses. These two prayers give us an intriguing glimpse into his life’s story. Peregrine Laziosi was born in 1260 in Forli, Italy to a wealthy family. Although he was a member of an anti-papal party as a young man, he experienced a profound change of heart, much like St. Paul’s conversion in its intensity. He and some companions showed up one day to heckle and otherwise abuse St. Philip Benizi, the Prior General of the Servants of Mary, who was preaching in Forli. Peregrine went so far as to strike him in the face! St. Philip, seemingly following our Lord’s advice in scripture (Matt 5:39, Luke 6:29), offered his other cheek in response. Read more…

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SAVE THE POST! Daily Prayer to Mary for the Nation Before the November 5 US Presidential Election

Mother & Refuge12 mins

O Most Blessed Virgin Mary, Mother of Mercy, at this most critical time, we entrust the United States of America to your loving care. Most Holy Mother, we beg you to reclaim this land for the glory of your Son. Overwhelmed with the burden of the sins of our nation, we cry to you from the depths of our hearts and seek refuge in your motherly protection. Look down with mercy upon us and touch the hearts of our people. Open our minds to the great worth of human life and to the responsibilities that accompany human freedom. Free us from the falsehoods that lead to the evil of abortion and threaten the sanctity of family life. Grant our country the wisdom to proclaim that God’ s law is the foundation on which this nation was founded, and that He alone is the True Source of our cherished rights to life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness. O Merciful Mother, give us the courage to reject the culture of death and the strength to build a new Culture of Life.

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St. Michael’s Lent: A Guide to Prayer and Devotion During St. Michael’s Lent

Mother & Refuge09 mins

Introduction St. Michael’s Lent is a lesser-known but deeply spiritual tradition within the Catholic Church, observed from August 15th (the Feast of the Assumption) to September 29th (the Feast of St. Michael the Archangel). This 40-day period of prayer, fasting, and penance is modeled after the more widely known Lenten season leading up to Easter. It provides an opportunity for Catholics to deepen their spiritual lives, seek the intercession of St. Michael the Archangel, and prepare themselves for the spiritual battles they may face. Origins of St. Michael’s Lent St. Michael’s Lent is believed to have originated with St. Francis of Assisi, who had a profound devotion to St. Michael the Archangel. St. Francis would retreat to Mount La Verna during this time, fasting and praying in solitude. He sought to imitate Christ and prepare himself for greater spiritual challenges. This tradition gradually spread and became a way for the faithful to honor St. Michael and seek his protection. How to Participate in St. Michael’s Lent Participating in St. Michael’s Lent is a powerful way to grow in faith, resist temptation, and draw closer to God. Here’s how you can observe this holy season: 1. Prayer Prayer is the cornerstone of St. Michael’s Lent. Begin each day with a prayer to St. Michael the Archangel, asking for his protection and guidance. You can use the traditional prayer or one of the following: Traditional Prayer to St. Michael the Archangel St. Michael the Archangel, defend us in battle. Be our protection against the wickedness and snares of the devil. May God rebuke him, we humbly pray, and do thou, O Prince of the heavenly hosts, by the power of God, thrust into hell Satan, and all the evil spirits, who prowl about the world seeking the ruin of souls. Amen. Morning Offering for St. Michael’s Lent Heavenly Father, as I begin this day of St. Michael’s Lent, I offer You my prayers, works, joys, and sufferings. I ask for the intercession of St. Michael the Archangel, that he may protect me from all evil and guide me on the path of righteousness. Through Christ our Lord. Amen. Prayer of Protection St. Michael, mighty warrior of God, protect me this day. Shield me from the temptations of the enemy, and strengthen my resolve to follow Christ faithfully. In your powerful name, I pray. Amen. 2. Fasting and Abstinence Like the Lenten season before Easter, St. Michael’s Lent encourages fasting and abstinence as a means of penance and spiritual discipline. You may choose to fast from certain foods, such as meat or sweets, or abstain from particular activities that distract you from your spiritual goals. The key is to make a sacrifice that is meaningful and challenging for you. Example of a Fasting Resolution “During St. Michael’s Lent, I will fast from [specific food or activity] on Wednesdays and Fridays, offering my sacrifice for the purification of my soul and the protection of the Church.” 3. Penance and Almsgiving Use this period to perform acts of penance and charity. Confession is an important part of this, allowing you to cleanse your soul and receive God’s grace. Additionally, consider giving to the poor or supporting a charity that aligns with your faith. Prayer Before Confession Lord, grant me the grace to see my sins clearly and the courage to confess them sincerely. Through the intercession of St. Michael, may I be cleansed of all unrighteousness and made worthy to stand in Your presence. Amen. 4. Spiritual Reading and Reflection Enhance your spiritual life by reading the Scriptures, the lives of the saints, or other Catholic spiritual works. Reflect on the themes of spiritual warfare, the power of angels, and the role of St. Michael in defending the Church. Suggested Reading: “The Life of St. Michael the Archangel” by Anne Catherine Emmerich “The Screwtape Letters” by C.S. Lewis (focuses on spiritual warfare) Daily Bible reading, especially passages related to angels and spiritual battle 5. Daily Examination of Conscience Each evening, take a few moments to reflect on your day. Consider your thoughts, words, and actions. Have you been faithful to your Lenten commitments? Where have you succeeded, and where have you fallen short? End with an Act of Contrition. Act of Contrition O my God, I am heartily sorry for having offended You. I detest all my sins because of Your just punishments, but most of all because they offend You, my God, who are all good and deserving of all my love. I firmly resolve, with the help of Your grace, to sin no more and to avoid the near occasions of sin. Amen. 6. Attend Mass Regularly If possible, attend daily Mass during St. Michael’s Lent. The Eucharist is the source and summit of our faith, and receiving Christ’s Body and Blood strengthens us in our spiritual battles. Conclusion St. Michael’s Lent is a beautiful opportunity to renew your commitment to God, strengthen your spiritual life, and seek the powerful intercession of St. Michael the Archangel. By dedicating yourself to prayer, fasting, penance, and spiritual reflection, you can prepare your soul for the challenges ahead and grow in holiness. May St. Michael defend you in battle and lead you ever closer to Christ. Amen.

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Practical Guide to Be Consistent in Prayer Life

Mother & Refuge04 mins

Consistency in prayer is essential for deepening your relationship with God and nurturing your faith. Here’s a practical guide to help you maintain a regular prayer life: 1. Set a Specific Time for Prayer Morning Offering: Start your day with a morning prayer. Offer all your thoughts, words, and actions to God. Evening Reflection: End your day with a prayer of thanksgiving, examination of conscience, and asking for God’s forgiveness and guidance. 2. Create a Sacred Space Designate a quiet, comfortable spot in your home for prayer. Keep religious items such as a crucifix, Bible, rosary, and candles to create a prayerful atmosphere. 3. Use a Prayer Schedule Daily Prayers: Include the Our Father, Hail Mary, and Glory Be. Rosary: Pray the Rosary daily or at least a decade. Liturgy of the Hours: Consider incorporating the Divine Office, especially Morning and Evening Prayer. Meditation: Spend a few minutes in silent meditation, contemplating the mysteries of faith or the daily readings. 4. Incorporate Scripture Read and meditate on a passage from the Bible each day. Reflect on how it applies to your life. Use a Catholic devotional or a daily reflection guide to help you understand and live out the Scripture. 5. Attend Mass Regularly Daily Mass: If possible, attend daily Mass to receive the Eucharist and listen to the Word of God. Sunday Obligation: Never miss Sunday Mass. It’s a fundamental part of our faith. 6. Make Use of Sacramentals Holy Water: Bless yourself with holy water as a reminder of your baptism. Rosary: Carry a rosary and use it for prayer throughout the day. Scapulars and Medals: Wear them as a sign of devotion and protection. 7. Keep a Prayer Journal Write down your prayers, reflections, and any insights or inspirations you receive during prayer. Review your journal regularly to see how God is working in your life. 8. Pray with Others Join a prayer group or a Bible study. Pray with your family, teaching children the importance of prayer. Participate in parish activities and devotions, such as Adoration, Stations of the Cross, or novenas. 9. Seek Spiritual Guidance Find a spiritual director or confessor to help guide your prayer life and spiritual growth. Regular confession helps maintain a state of grace and deepens your relationship with God. 10. Be Patient and Persevere Understand that prayer is a journey. There may be dry spells or distractions, but persevere. Trust in God’s timing and be open to His will. Sample Daily Prayer Routine Morning Morning Offering Read a Scripture passage Brief meditation Midday Angelus (at noon) Short prayer or reflection Evening Evening Prayer from the Liturgy of the Hours Rosary Examination of conscience Night prayer By incorporating these practices, you can develop a consistent and enriching prayer life that strengthens your faith and draws you closer to God.

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Daily Consecration to the Holy Spirit

Mother & Refuge01 mins

Most holy Spirit receive the consecration that I make of my entire being today to you. From this moment on, come into every area of my life and into each of my actions. you are my Light, my Guide, my Strength, and the sole desire of my heart. I abandon myself without reserve to your Divine directions and action, and I desire to be ever docile to your inspirations. O Holy Spirit, transform me, with and through Mary, into another Christ Jesus, for the glory of the Father and the salvation of the world. Amen.

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A powerful prayer to defeat the work of Satan

Mother & Refuge02 mins

It is a truth of the Catholic faith that Satan and his minions are real and are actively engaged in a battle against us. They eagerly want our demise, but we must fight back against them. Pope Francis explained this reality during a daily Mass homily in 2014. The devil exists and we have to fight against him. Paul says so — I’m not the one saying it. The word of God says it … However, do not be discouraged. (Have) courage and strength because the Lord is with us. Among the many prayers that the Church provides for us in this battle against Satan, here is one simply called “Prayer to Defeat the Work of Satan.” It is a powerful prayer, one that begs God to cast out the darkness from this world once and for all. O Divine Eternal Father, in union with your Divine Son and the Holy Spirit, and through the Immaculate Heart of Mary, I beg You to destroy the Power of your greatest enemy — the evil spirits. Cast them into the deepest recesses of hell and chain them there forever! Take possession of your Kingdom which You have created and which is rightfully yours. Heavenly Father, give us the reign of the Sacred Heart of Jesus and the Immaculate Heart of Mary. I repeat this prayer out of pure love for You with every beat of my heart and with every breath I take. Amen

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The Last Prayer Written by St. John Paul II

Mother & Refuge02 mins

By Philip Kosloski Many are familiar with the last words of St. John Paul II, which he mumbled in Polish, “Let me go to the house of the Father.“ However, he also penned a final prayer that would have been recited at the Regina Caeli address on Sunday, April 3, 2005. His address was directed to Divine Mercy Sunday, a feast that he dearly loved and instituted based on the private revelations of St. Faustina. St. John Paul II included a short prayer, which was likely the last prayer that he ever wrote: Lord, who reveal the Father’s love by your death and Resurrection, we believe in you and confidently repeat to you today: Jesus, I trust in you, have mercy upon us and upon the whole world.   He also ended his address with an Easter exclamation, “Alleluia!“ It is fitting that he ended his pontificate praying “Jesus, I trust in you,” reciting the prayer that was revealed to St. Faustina. St. John Paul II firmly trusted in God and strove to highlight God’s mercy and love to the whole world. We can learn from his example and pray the same words every day, saying, “Jesus, I trust in you!”  

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