The St. Aloysius Novena of Grace, a long-standing tradition, continues in March with a theme of “Hope for Uncertain Times.”
Nine days of reflection, prayer and presentations designed to help us draw
closer to God through the intercession of St. Francis Xavier. It begins March 4 and ends March 12, the anniversary of the canonization of St. Francis Xavier. Novena Masses with guest speakers will be each day at 7pm. with the exception of Sunday, March 7, when the speakers will be at all Sunday Masses. Each day’s theme is listed below.
Those watching from home can add their petitions in the comments at the bottom of this page.
March 4
The Lush Green Hills of Hope
Grace I pray for today: That within the terrain of my heart, I will find hope for these uncertain times.
March 5
Forgiveness, Allowing Hope to Emerge
Forgiveness inspires hope to emerge.
March 6
Hope Transforms
Drawing on the story of the Prodigal Son, we consider how hope calls us not simply to rearrange but to radically transform our way of living as individuals and communities as we make our way through the COVID-19 pandemic.
March 7
Second Chances… New Beginnings at the Wellspring of Hope
In uncertain times, may I draw from the resilient source deep within, the wellspring of my hope.
March 8
Finding the Extraordinary in the Ordinary
Experiencing God through the little things in our ordinary lives.
March 9
Hope in Gratitude
How do our experiences of God’s love and mercy, especially in Eucharist and Reconciliation, fill us with gratitude and, in turn, hope?
March 10
Hope For and With the Next Generation
Moses instructs the people to teach their children and their children’s children. As we teach our next generation, let us also be open to what they have to teach us.
March 11
Hope for Unity
Jesus invites us to look towards unity and common action. How is Jesus calling us to see the Spirit bringing us together, rather than dividing us?
March 12
“… and grace will lead us home.”
I pray I am not far from God’s Kingdom of Hope!
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St. Francis Xavier Novena Prayer
Most lovable and loving St. Francis Xavier, in union with you, I adore the Divine Majesty. The remembrance of the favors with which God blest you during life and of your glory after death, fills me with joy; and I unite with you in offering to God my tribute of thanksgiving and praise. I implore you to secure for me through your powerful intercession, the great blessing of living and dying in the state of grace. I also beseech you to obtain the favors I ask in this novena (silent pause for individual petitions). But if what I ask is not for the glory of God or the good of my soul, obtain for me what is most conducive for both. Amen.
Xavier’s Prayer
Eternal God, Creator of all things. You created unbelievers to your image and likeness. Jesus Christ, your only Son, for their salvation suffered a most cruel death. United with the prayers of your saints and of the Church, the most holy spouse of your Son, bring them to know Him, whom you have sent. Jesus Christ, your Son, our Lord, who is health, life, and resurrection, through whom we have been redeemed and saved. To whom be all glory forever. Amen.
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Novena Petitions
If you are joining us for the Novena from home, please use the comment box below to write your Novena petitions and prayers. We will select some of these prayers below to read during the Novena Masses.
