The Shrine of St. Joseph

Cross of Christ - Photo by Loci B. Lenar

By Loci B. Lenar

While visiting the Shrine of Saint Joseph today, I took a stroll around the grounds and photographed a cross which is surrounded by beautiful trees that are beginning to show autumn colors on the leaves.  The cross is located in the rear of the shrine.



Hall of Candles - Photo by Loci B. Lenar



I decided to stop at the shrine to have a votive candle lit for some personal intentions and said some prayers. The wood statue below of Joseph is also displayed inside the Hall of Candles with other saints. 

The Catholic shrine is located on 1050 Long Hill Road, Stirling, New Jersey.



St. Joseph - Photo by Loci B. Lenar

 

Prayer to St. Joseph to Obtain a Special Favor - Tan Books

O blessed Saint Joseph, tenderhearted father, faithful guardian of Jesus, chaste spouse of the Mother of God, we pray and beseech thee to offer to God the Father His divine Son, bathed in blood on the Cross for sinners, and through the thrice-holy Name of Jesus, obtain for us from the Eternal Father the favor we implore. (Name your request.)

Appease the Divine anger so justly inflamed by our crimes, beg of Jesus mercy for thy children. Amid the splendors of eternity, forget not the sorrows of those who suffer, those who pray, those who weep; stay the Almighty arm which smites us, that by thy prayers and those of thy most holy spouse, the Heart of Jesus may be moved to pity and to pardon. Amen.

St. Joseph, pray for us.

Mary, Our Model in Prayer

Mother Mary and Infant Jesus
Photograph by Loci B. Lenar

Commentary By Loci B. Lenar

The photograph is a close-up of Mary and Infant Jesus. A soft glow in the photograph helps to highlight the face of Mary and Infant Jesus. The beautiful wood icon is part of a display of votive candles which are lit for prayers and petitions. The display is on the left side of the church as you enter into the Monastery of Our Lady of the Rosary. The Catholic church is located on 543 Springfield Avenue, Summit, NJ, USA.


Prayers - Catholic Online

Mary, Our Model in Prayer

All praise and glory are Yours, almighty Father:

You have given us Your Son Jesus to save us from sin.
We praise You for choosing Mary to be His mother,
for teaching her to believe Your message,
for helping her to accept Your holy will.

Strengthen us by Your Spirit to be like Mary:
to ponder Your word in our hearts,
to obey Your will,
to love Your Son,
to sing Your praises every day.

Father,
we praise You through Jesus Christ Your Son
in the love of Your Spirit,
for ever and ever.

Amen.


Mary's Consent

You have heard it said, O Virgin, that you will conceive and bear a son; you have heard that it will not be by man but by the Holy Spirit. The angel awaits an answer; it is time for him to return to God who sent him. We too are waiting, O Lady, for your word of compassion; the sentence of condemnation weights heavily upon us.

The price of salvation is offered to you. We shall be set free at once if you consent. In the eternal Word of God we all came to be, and behold, we die. In your brief response we are to be remade in order to be recalled to life . . . .

Answer quickly, O Virgin. Reply in haste to the angel, or rather through the angel to the Lord. Answer with a word, receive the Word of God. Speak your own word, conceive the divine Word. Breathe a passing word, embrace the eternal Word.

Why do you delay, why are you afraid? Believe, give praise and receive. Let humility be bold, let modesty be confident. This is no time for virginal simplicity to forget prudence. In this matter alone, O prudent Virgin, do not fear to be presumptuous. Though modest silence is pleasing, dutiful speech is now more necessary. Open your heart to faith, O blessed Virgin, your lips to praise, your womb to the Creator. See, the desired of all nations is at your door, knocking to enter. If he should pass by because of your delay, in sorrow you would begin to seek him afresh, the One whom your soul loves. Arise, hasten, open. Arise in faith, hasten in devotion, open in praise and thanksgiving. "Behold the handmaid of the Lord," she says, "be it done to me according to your word."

From a homily in Praise of the Virgin Mother by Saint Bernard, Abbot

For more daily prayers, please visit the following link: Devotional Prayers

How to Pray the Holy Rosary



Our Lady of the Holy Rosary
 Photograph by Loci B. Lenar


How to Pray the Holy Rosary

How to Pray the Rosary

from wikiHow - The How to Manual That You Can Edit

In the Roman Catholic faith, the Rosary is one of the most beautiful, powerful, and sacred prayers. The Rosary is a devotion to God through a devotion to Mary. The Rosary is Scriptural, Christ centered, and the twenty Mysteries reflect the life of Jesus Christ. The Rosary offers hope when life can be unbearable.

Steps

1. Begin by touching the crucifix and pray The Sign of the Cross.English: In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen. Latin: In nomine Patris et Filii et Spiriti Sancti. Amen.
   
   • As you say this, with your right hand touch your forehead when you say Father, touch your breastbone when you say Son, touch your left shoulder when you say Holy, and touch your right shoulder when you say Spirit.
2. Pray The Apostles CreedEnglish: I believe in God, the Father almighty, Creator of Heaven and earth. And in Jesus Christ, His only Son, our Lord, Who was conceived by the Holy Spirit, born of the Virgin Mary, suffered under Pontius Pilate; was crucified, died, and was buried. The third day He rose again from the dead. He ascended into Heaven, and sits at the right hand of God, the Father almighty. He shall come again to judge the living and the dead. I believe in the Holy Spirit, the holy catholic church, the communion of saints, the forgiveness of sins, the resurrection of the body, and life everlasting. Amen. Latin: Credo in Deum Patrem omnipotentem, Creatorem caeli et terrae. Et in Iesum Christum, Filium eius unicum, Dominum nostrum, qui conceptus est de Spiritu Sancto, natus ex Maria Virgine, passus sub Pontio Pilato, crucifixus, mortuus, et sepultus, descendit ad inferos, tertia die resurrexit a mortuis, ascendit ad caelos, sedet ad dexteram Dei Patris omnipotentis, inde venturus est iudicare vivos et mortuos. Credo in Spiritum Sanctum, sanctam Ecclesiam catholicam, sanctorum communionem, remissionem peccatorum, carnis resurrectionem, vitam aeternam. Amen.
3. On the first large rosary bead, pray the Our Father. English: 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 daily bread, and forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. Amen. Latin: Pater noster, qui es in caelis, sanctificetur nomen tuum. Adveniat regnum tuum. Fiat voluntas tua, sicut in caelo et in terra. Panem nostrum quotidianum da nobis hodie, et dimitte nobis debita nostra sicut et nos dimittimus debitoribus nostris. Et ne nos inducas in tentationem, sed libera nos a malo. Amen.
4. On each of the next three beads, pray a Hail Mary. English: Hail Mary, full of grace, the Lord is with thee; blessed art thou among women, and blessed is the fruit of thy womb, Jesus. Holy Mary, Mother of God, pray for us sinners, now and at the hour of our death. Amen. Latin: Ave Maria, gratia plena, Dominus tecum. Benedicta tu in mulieribus, et benedictus fructus ventris tui, Jesus. Sancta Maria, Mater Dei, ora pro nobis peccatoribus, nunc, et in hora mortis nostrae. Amen.
   
   • Pray these Hail Marys with the following intentions:
     
     • For the increase of faith.
     • For the increase of hope.
     • For the increase of love.
5. On the next large bead, pray Glory Be To the Father. English:Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit. As it was in the beginning is now, and ever shall be, world without end. Amen. Latin: Gloria Patri et Filio et Spiritui Sancto. Sicut erat in principio, et nunc et semper et in saecula saeculorum. Amen.
6. Announce the Mystery
   
   • On the first rosary bead, pray the Our Father.
   • On each of the next ten beads, pray a Hail Mary.
   • On the next large bead, pray a Glory Be To The Father.
   • Pray a Fatima Prayer.English:O my Jesus, forgive us our sins, save us from the fires of Hell; lead all souls to Heaven, especially those in most need of Thy mercy. Amen. Latin:Domine Iesu, dimitte nobis debita nostra, salva nos ab igne inferiori, perduc in caelum omnes animas, praesertim eas, quae misericordiae tuae maxime indigent.
7. Repeat the previous six steps for each of the remaining Mysteries as you work your way around the rosary beads.
8. Pray a Hail Holy Queen. English: HAIL HOLY QUEEN, mother of mercy; our life, our sweetness, and our hope. To thee do we cry, poor banished children of Eve. To thee do we send up our sighs, mourning and weeping in this vale of tears. Turn, then, most gracious advocate, thine eyes of mercy toward us. And after this, our exile, show unto us the blessed fruit of thy womb, Jesus. O clement, O loving, O sweet Virgin Mary. Pray for us, O holy Mother of God, that we may be made worthy of the promises of Christ. Amen. Latin: Salve, Regina, Mater misericordiae; vita, dulcedo, et spes nostra, salve. Ad te clamamus, exules filii Hevae; ad te suspiramus, gementes et flentes in hac lacrymarum valle. Eia ergo, advocata nostra, illos tuos misericordes oculos ad nos converte; et Jesum, benedictum fructum ventris tui, nobis post hoc exilium ostende. O clemens, O pia, O dulcis Virgo Maria. Amen.
9. Pray the Final Prayer (optional). English:O GOD, WHOSE only-begotten Son by His life, death and resurrection, has purchased for us the rewards of eternal life; grant, we beseech Thee, that by meditating upon these mysteries of the Most Holy Rosary of the Blessed Virgin Mary, we may imitate what they contain and obtain what they promise, through the same Christ our Lord. Amen.
10. End with the Sign of the Cross.

Tips

• You do not actually need a Rosary, You can pray the Rosary on your fingers or by using another method of counting.
• If you are nervous about an upcoming event silently say just a decade in your head as you drive there or wait in line for your turn. It is very relaxing to know that our Blessed Mother and Jesus Christ are there for you.
• Say a decade for a individual in need. All you need to do is mention the name of the person at the end of the decade. (i.e. Oh Lord I lift up this decade of the rosary for (persons name) because (certain circumstance that calls for prayer.)

Things You'll Need

• A rosary

Related wikiHows

• How to Say the Rosary
• How to Pray to Jesus
• How to Create Your Own Bible Study

Sources and Citations

• http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rosary

Article provided by wikiHow, a wiki how-to manual. Please edit this article and find author credits at the original wikiHow article on How to Pray the Rosary. All content on wikiHow can be shared under a Creative Commons license.


The following illustration can be found on the website of Christian Wallpapers.

The Mysteries of the Holy Rosary

The Joyful Mysteries

The Sorrowful Mysteries

The Luminous Mysteries

The Glorious Mysteries

St. Anthony of Padua Novena

Stained glass window of St. Anthony
Photograph by Loci B. Lenar

St. Anthony Novena - EWTN

O wonderful St. Anthony, glorious on account of the fame of your miracles, and through the condescension of Jesus in coming in the form of a little child to rest in your arms, obtain for me of His bounty the grace which I ardently desire from the depths of my heart . (State your intention)

You who were so compassionate toward miserable sinners, regard not the unworthiness of those who pray to you, but the glory of God that it may once again be magnified by the granting of the particular request  (State your intention)  which I now ask for with persevering earnestness. Amen

Pray one Our Father, one Hail Mary, and Glory Be to the Father, in honor of Saint Anthony.

Saint Anthony, pray for us!


St Anthony and Infant Jesus
Photograph By Loci B. Lenar

DAY ONE

O holy St. Anthony, gentlest of saints, your love for God and charity for his creatures made you worthy while on earth to possess miraculous powers. Miracles waited your word, which you were ever ready to speak for those in trouble or anxiety. Encouraged by this thought, I implore you to obtain for me the favor I seek in this novena (State your intention). The answer to my prayer may require a miracle; even so, you are the saint of miracles. O gentle and loving Saint Anthony, whose heart was ever full of human sympathy, whisper my petition into the ears of the Infant Jesus, who loved to be folded in your arms, and thee gratitude of my heart will always be yours.

One Our Father, one Hail Mary, and Glory Be to the Father, in honor of Saint Anthony.

Saint Anthony, pray for us!


DAY TWO

O miracle-working St. Anthony, remember that it never has been heard that you left without help or relief anyone who in his need had recourse to you. Animated now with the most lively confidence, even with full conviction of not being refused, I fly for refuge to thee, O most favored friend of the Infant Jesus. O eloquent preacher of the divine mercy, despise not my supplications but, bringing them before the throne of God, strengthen them by your intercession and obtain for me the favor I seek in this novena (State your intention) .

One Our Father, one Hail Mary, and Glory Be to the Father, in honor of Saint Anthony.

Saint Anthony, pray for us!


DAY THREE

O purest St. Anthony, who through your angelic virtue was made worthy to be caressed by the Divine Child Jesus, to hold him in your arms and press him to your heart. I entreat you to cast a benevolent glance upon me. O glorious St. Anthony, born under the protection of Mary Immaculate, on the Feast of her Assumption into Heaven, and consecrated to her and now so powerful an intercessor in Heaven, I beseech you to obtain for me the favor I ask in this novena (State your intention). O great wonder-worker, intercede for me that God may grant my request.

One Our Father, one Hail Mary, and Glory Be to the Father, in honor of Saint Anthony.

Saint Anthony, pray for us!


DAY FOUR

I salute and honor you, O powerful helper, St. Anthony. The Christian world confidently turns to you and experiences your tender compassion and powerful assistance in so many necessities and sufferings that I am encouraged in my need to seek you help in obtaining a favorable answer to my request for the favor I seek in this novena (State your intention). O holy St. Anthony, I beseech you, obtain for me the grace that I desire.

One Our Father, one Hail Mary, and Glory Be to the Father, in honor of Saint Anthony.

Saint Anthony, pray for us!


DAY FIVE

I salute you, St. Anthony, lily of purity, ornament and glory of Christianity. I salute you, great Saint, cherub of wisdom and seraph of divine love. I rejoice at the favors our Lord has so liberally bestowed upon you. In humility and confidence I entreat you to help me, for I know that God has given you charity and pity, as well as power. I ask you by the love you did feel toward the Infant Jesus as you held him in your arms to tell Him now of the favor I seek through your intercession in this novena (State your intention).

One Our Father, one Hail Mary, and Glory Be to the Father, in honor of Saint Anthony.

Saint Anthony, pray for us!


DAY SIX

O glorious St. Anthony, chosen by God to preach his Word, you received from Him the gift of tongues and the power of working the most extraordinary miracles. O good St. Anthony, pray that I may fulfill the will of God in all things so that I may love Him, with you, for all eternity. O kind St. Anthony, I beseech you, obtain for me the grace that I desire, the favor I seek in this novena (State your intention).

One Our Father, one Hail Mary, and Glory Be to the Father, in honor of Saint Anthony.

Saint Anthony, pray for us!


DAY SEVEN

O renowned champion of the faith of Christ, most holy St. Anthony, glorious for your many miracles, obtain for me from the bounty of my Lord and God the grace which I ardently seek in this novena (State your intention) . O holy St. Anthony, ever attentive to those who invoke you, grant me that aid of your powerful intercession.

One Our Father, one Hail Mary, and Glory Be to the Father, in honor of Saint Anthony.

Saint Anthony, pray for us!


DAY EIGHT

O holy St. Anthony, you have shown yourself so powerful in your intercession, so tender and so compassionate towards those who honor you and invoke you in suffering and distress. I beseech you most humbly and earnestly to take me under your protection in my present necessities and to obtain for me the favor I desire (State your intention). Recommend my request to the merciful Queen of Heaven, that she may plead my cause with you before the throne of her Divine Son.

One Our Father, one Hail Mary, and Glory Be to the Father, in honor of Saint Anthony.

Saint Anthony, pray for us!


DAY NINE

Saint Anthony, servant of Mary, glory of the Church, pray for our Holy Father, our bishops, our priests, our Religious Orders, that, through their pious zeal and apostolic labors, all may be united in faith and give greater glory to God. St. Anthony, helper of all who invoke you, pray for me and intercede for me before the throne of Almighty God that I be granted the favor I so earnestly see in this novena (State your intention).

One Our Father, one Hail Mary, and Glory Be to the Father, in honor of Saint Anthony.

Saint Anthony, pray for us!


May the divine assistance remain always with us.
Amen

May the souls of the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace.
Amen.

O God, may the votive commemoration of blessed Anthony, your confessor, be a source of joy to your Church, that she may always be fortified with spiritual assistance, and deserve to enjoy eternal rewards. Through Christ our Lord.
Amen.

Devotional Prayers

Praying the Chaplet of the Sacred Heart of Jesus

Statue of the Sacred Heart of Jesus
Church of Saint Ann, Hoboken, New Jersey
Photograph by Loci B. Lenar

How to Pray the Chaplet of the Sacred Heart of Jesus - Franciscan Focus

The chaplet and following instructions can be found on the website of the Franciscan Focus



Chaplet of the Sacred Heart of Jesus
Photo copyright Lisa, sfo of FranciscanFocus.com


The chaplet is composed of 39 beads (or knots, in this case) -- 6 of which are large, and 33 small -- a centerpiece, crucifix, and a Sacred Heart medal. The small beads represent the 33 years of the mortal life of our Lord. The first 30 call to mind the years of his private life and are divided into 5 groups of 6. The 3 near the crucifix recall his public life.

To Start: On the crucifix, pray the Anima Christi:

Soul of Christ, sanctify me.
Body of Christ, save me.
Blood of Christ, inebriate me.
Water from the side of Christ, wash me.
Passion of Christ, strengthen me.
O good Jesus, hear me.
Within Thy wounds hide me.
Separated from Thee let me never be.
From the malignant enemy, defend me.
At the hour of death, call me.
And close to Thee bid me.
That with Thy saints I may be
Praising Thee, forever and ever.
Amen.

On the small beads say:
Sweet Heart of Jesus, be my love.

On the large beads say:
O Sweetest Heart of Jesus, I implore
that I may ever love thee more and more.

After each grouping, say:
Sweet Heart of Mary, be my salvation.

To End, Finish on the centerpiece and pray:
May the Sacred Heart of Jesus in the most Blessed Sacrament
be praised and adored and loved with grateful affection,
at every moment, in all the tabernacles of the world,
even to the end of time.
Amen.

Prayers of Saint Pio of Pietrelcina

Statue of Padre Pio

Photo by Loci B. Lenar

Prayer for the Intercession of St. Pio of Pietrelcina

Dear God, You generously blessed Your servant,

St. Pio of Pietrelcina, with the gifts of the Spirit.

You marked his body with the five wounds

of Christ Crucified, as a powerful witness

to the saving Passion and Death of Your Son.

Endowed with the gift of discernment,

St. Pio labored endlessly in the confessional

for the salvation of souls.

With reverence and intense devotion

in the celebration of Mass,

he invited countless men and women

to a greater union with Jesus Christ

in the Sacrament of the Holy Eucharist.

Through the intercession of St. Pio of Pietrelcina,

I confidently beseech You to grant me

the grace of (here state your petition). Amen.

Glory be to the Father and to the Son

and to the Holy Spirit, as it was in the beginning,

is now and ever shall be, world without end.

Amen (Say three times)

Statue of St. Pio of Pietrelcina

Photo by Loci B. Lenar

A Prayer for Trust and Confidence in God's Mercy

By St. Pio of Pietrelcina

O Lord,

we ask for a boundless confidence

and trust in Your divine mercy,

and the courage to accept

the crosses and sufferings

which bring immense goodness

to our souls and that of Your Church.

Help us to love You

with a pure and contrite heart,

and to humble ourselves beneath Your cross,

as we climb the mountain of holiness,

carrying our cross that leads to heavenly glory.

May we receive You

with great faith and love in Holy Communion,

and allow You to act in us as You desire

for your greater glory.

O Jesus, most adorable Heart

and eternal fountain of Divine Love,

may our prayer find favor before

the Divine Majesty of Your heavenly Father.

A Prayer

By Saint Pio of Pietrelcina

May Jesus comfort you

in all your afflictions.

May He sustain you in dangers,

watch over you always with His grace,

and indicate the safe path

that leads to eternal salvation.

And may He render you always

dearer to His Divine Heart

and always more worthy of Paradise.

Amen

For other daily prayers, please visit the following link:
Devotional Prayers

***

The life-like statue of Padre Pio is on display inside the Church of Saint Ann, which is located on 704 Jefferson Street in Hoboken, New Jersey.  Loci B. Lenar photographed the statue while attending Saint Ann's Italian Festival on July 25, 2010.

Photographs Copyright 2010 Loci B. Lenar
Christian-Miracles.com 

Prayer to Our Lady of Mercy by St. Augustine of Hippo

Photograph by Loci B. Lenar

Prayer to Our Lady of Mercy - St. Augustine of Hippo

Blessed Virgin Mary,
who can worthily repay you with praise
and thanks for having rescued a fallen world
by your generous consent!
Receive our gratitude,
and by your prayers obtain the pardon of our sins.
Take our prayers into the sanctuary of heaven
and enable them to make our peace with God.

Holy Mary, help the miserable,
strengthen the discouraged,
comfort the sorrowful,
pray for your people,
plead for the clergy,
intercede for all women consecrated to God.
May all who venerate you
feel now your help and protection.
Be ready to help us when we pray,
and bring back to us the answers to our prayers.
Make it your continual concern
to pray for the people of God,
for you were blessed by God
and were made worthy to bear the Redeemer of the world,
who lives and reigns forever.

Amen.

***

For other Catholic prayers, please visit the following link: Daily Devotional Prayers

The statue of Our Lady is displayed on the exterior of the Holy Name of Jesus Catholic Church in East Orange, New Jersey. The statue and church is located on the corner of Dodd Street and Midland Avenue.
 
Photograph Copyright 2010 Loci B. Lenar
Christian-Miracles.com

Novena Prayer to Saint Philomena

Photograph by Loci B. Lenar

Novena Prayer to Saint Philomena

We beseech Thee, O Lord, to grant us the pardon of our sins by the intercession of Saint, virgin and martyr, who was always pleasing in Thy sight by her eminent chastity and by the profession of every virtue. Amen.

Illustrious virgin and martyr, Saint Philomena, behold me prostrate before the throne whereupon it has pleased the Most Holy Trinity to place thee. Full of confidence in thy protection, I entreat thee to intercede for me with God, from the heights of Heaven deign to cast a glance upon thy humble client! Spouse of Christ, sustain me in suffering, fortify me in temptation, protect me in the dangers surrounding me, obtain for me the graces necessary to me, and in particular

(Here specify your petition).

Above all, assist me at the hour of my death. Saint Philomena, powerful with God, pray for us.  Amen.

O God, Most Holy Trinity, we thank Thee for the graces Thou didst bestow upon the Blessed Virgin Mary, and upon Thy handmaid Philomena, through whose intercession we implore Thy Mercy. Amen.

***

The prayer to St. Philomena can be found on Catholic websites.

For biographical information about Saint Philomena, please visit Catholic Online.

For other prayers of interest, please visit the following link: Devotional Prayers

The stained glass window of Saint Philomena can be seen inside of St. Anthony of Padua Church. The Catholic church is located on 1360 Pleasant Valley Way in West Orange, New Jersey, USA.

Photograph Copyright 2010 Loci B. Lenar
Christian-Miracles.com

Prayers and Poems of Saint Teresa of Avila

Stained glass window detail of St. Teresa of Avila

Photograph by Loci B. Lenar

Prayers and Poems of Saint Teresa of Avila

To Redeem Lost Time

O my God! Source of all mercy!

I acknowledge Your sovereign power.

While recalling the wasted years that are past,

I believe that You, Lord,

can in an instant turn this loss to gain.

Miserable as I am,

yet I firmly believe that You can do all things.

Please restore to me the time lost,

giving me Your grace,

both now and in the future,

that I may appear before You in "wedding garments."

Amen.

Stained Glass Window of St. Teresa of Avila

Photograph by Loci B. Lenar

God Alone is Enough

Let nothing upset you,

let nothing startle you.

All things pass;

God does not change.

Patience wins

all it seeks.

Whoever has God

lacks nothing:

God alone is enough

Let Nothing Trouble You

Let nothing trouble you.

Let nothing scare you.

All is fleeting.

God alone is unchanging.

Patience

Everything obtains.

Who possesses God

Nothing wants.

God alone suffices.

If, Lord, Thy Love is Strong

If, Lord, Thy love for me is strong

As this which binds me unto thee,

What holds me from thee Lord so long,

What holds thee Lord so long from me?

O soul, what then desirest thou?

Lord I would see thee, who thus choose thee.

What fears can yet assail thee now?

All that I fear is but lose thee.

Love's whole possession I entreat,

Lord make my soul thine own abode,

And I will build a nest so sweet

It may not be too poor for God.

A sould in God hidden from sin,

What more desires for thee remain,

Save but to love again,

And all on flame with love within,

Love on, and turn to love again.

A Love Song

Majestic sovereign, timeless wisdom,
your kindness melts my hard, cold soul.

Handsome lover, selfless giver,
your beauty fills my dull, sad eyes.

I am yours, you made me.

I am yours, you called me.

I am yours, you saved me.

I am yours, you loved me.

I will never leave your presence.

Give me death, give me life.

Give me sickness, give me health.

Give me honor, give me shame.

Give me weakness, give me strength.

I will have whatever you give. Amen.

***

The above prayers and poems can be found on Cathoic websites.

For other prayers, please visit the following link: Devotional Prayers

For biographical information on the saint, please visit the following link: St. Teresa of Avila

The stained glass window art can be seen inside of the Saint Teresa of Avila Mausoleum which is located on Passaic Avenue in Summit, NJ, USA.

Photographs Copyright 2010 Loci B. Lenar
Christian-Miracles.com

Prayer for the Seven Gifts of the Holy Spirit

Photograph by Loci B. Lenar

PRAYER FOR THE SEVEN GIFTS OF THE HOLY SPIRIT - Catholic Online

O Lord Jesus Christ, Who, before ascending into heaven, didst promise to send the Holy Ghost to finish Thy work in the souls of Thy Apostles and Disciples, deign to grant the same Holy Spirit to me, that He may perfect in my soul the work of Thy grace and Thy love.

Grant me the Spirit of Wisdom that I may despise the perishable things of this world and aspire only after the things that are eternal,

the Spirit of Understanding to enlighten my mind with the light of Thy divine truth,

the Spirit of Counsel that I may ever choose the surest way of pleasing God and gaining Heaven,

the Spirit of Fortitude that I may bear my cross with Thee, and that I may overcome with courage all the obstacles that oppose my salvation,

the Spirit of Knowledge that I may know God and know myself and grow perfect in the science of the Saints,

the Spirit of Piety that I may find the service of God sweet and amiable,

the Spirit of Fear that I may be filled with a loving reverence towards God, and may dread in any way to displease Him. Mark me, dear Lord, with the sign of Thy true disciples and animate me in all things with Thy Spirit.

Amen.

***

For other Christian prayers, please visit the following link: Devotional Prayers

The above stained glass window detail can be seen on top of the far right entrance door which leads into the Gate of Heaven Mausoleum. The Catholic mausoleum is located on Ridegdale Avenue in East Hanover, NJ, USA.

Photograph Copyright 2010 Loci B. Lenar
Christian-Miracles.com

Prayer for the Intercession of Saint John Neumann

Saint John Neumann

Photo by Loci B. Lenar

Prayer for the Intercession of St. John Neumann

O Saint John Neumann, your ardent desire of bringing all souls to Christ impelled you to leave home and country; teach us to live worthily in the spirit of our Baptism which makes us all children of the one Heavenly Father and brothers and sisters of Jesus Christ, the first-born of the family of God.

Obtain for us that complete dedication in the service of the needy, the weak, the afflicted and the abandoned which so characterized your life. Help us to walk perseveringly in the difficult and, at times, painful paths of duty, strengthened by the Body and Blood of our Redeemer and under the watchful protection of Mary our Mother.

May death still find us on the sure road to our Father's House with the light of living Faith in our hearts.

Amen.

*** 

For biographical information about the saint, please visit the following link: St. John Neumann

For other prayers, please visit the following link: Devotional Prayers

The stained glass window detail of St. John Neumann can be seen inside the the Gate of Heaven Mausoleum. The Catholic mausoleum is located on Ridegdale Avenue in East Hanover, NJ, USA.

Photograph Copyright 2010 Loci B. Lenar
Christian-Miracles.com

The Anima Christi of St. Elizabeth Ann Seton

Stained Glass Window Detail of St. Elizabeth Ann Seton

Photograph by Loci B. Lenar

The Anima Christi of St. Elizabeth Ann Seton - Catholic Online

Soul of Jesus,

Sanctify me.

Blood of Jesus,

Wash me,

Passion of Jesus,

Comfort me.

Wounds of Jesus,

Hide me.

Heart of Jesus,

Receive me.

Spirit of Jesus,

Enliven me.

Goodness of Jesus,

Pardon me.

Beauty of Jesus,

Draw me.

Humility of Jesus,

Humble me.

Peace of Jesus,

Pacify me.

Love of Jesus,

Inflame me.

Kingdom of Jesus,

Come to me.

Grace of Jesus,

Replenish me.

Mercy of Jesus,

Pity me.

Sanctity of Jesus,

Sanctify me.

Purity of Jesus,

Purify me.

Cross of Jesus,

Support me.

Nails of Jesus,

Hold me.

Mouth of Jesus,

Bless me in life, in death, in time and eternity.

Mouth of Jesus,

Defend me in the hour of death.

Mouth of Jesus,

Call me to come to Thee.

Mouth of Jesus,

Receive me with Thy saints in glory evermore.

Stained Glass Window of St. Elizabeth Ann Seton

Photograph by Loci B. Lenar

Let Us Pray

Unite me to Thyself,

O adorable Victim.

Life-giving heavenly Bread,

feed me,

sanctify me,

reign in me,

transform me to Thyself,

live in me;

let me live in Thee;

let me adore Thee in Thy life-giving Sacrament as my God,

listen to Thee as to my Master,

obey Thee as my King,

imitate Thee as my Model,

follow Thee as my Shepherd,

love Thee as my Father,

seek Thee as my Physician

who wilt heal all the maladies of my soul.

Be indeed my Way,

Truth and Life;

sustain me,

O heavenly Manna,

through the desert of this world,

till I shall behold Thee unveiled in Thy glory.

Amen

***

The stained glass window art of St. Elizabeth Ann Seton can be seen inside the Gate of Heaven Mausoleum. The Catholic mausoleum is located on Ridegdale Avenue in East Hanover, NJ, USA.

For additional biographical information, please visit the following link: St. Elizabeth Ann Seton

Photographs Copyright 2010 Loci B. Lenar
Christian-Miracles.com

A Prayer on Mother's Day

Photograph by Loci B. Lenar

Prayer to the Mother of the Lord for all Mothers - Catholic Online

Mary, on this day when we honor all mothers, we turn to you. We thank the Lord whom you serve for the great gift of motherhood. Never has it been known that anyone who sought your intercession was left unaided by grace. Dear Mother, thank you for your “Yes” to the invitation of the angel which brought heaven to earth and changed human history. You opened yourself to God’s word and the Word was made flesh and dwelt among us.

Dear mother, intercede for all of our mothers. Ask your Divine Son to give them the grace of surrendered love so that they could join with you in giving their own “Fiat.” May they find daily strength to say yes to the call to the sacrificial love- the very heart of the vocation of motherhood. May their love and witness be a source of great inspiration for all of us called to follow your Son.

On this Mothers day, Mother of the Word Incarnate, pray for us who have recourse to you…

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

***

The statue of the Blessed Mother can be seen inside of Saint Jude's Catholic Church, which is located on 40 Maxim Drive in Hopatcong, NJ, USA.

Photograph Copyright 2010 Loci B. Lenar
Christian-Miracles.com

Prayers of St. Francis Xavier

Photograph by Loci B. Lenar

Prayers of St. Francis Xavier - Liturgies.net

Prayer to St. Francis Xavier
Preacher and Miracle Worker

O God, You who were pleased
to gather into your Church the peoples of the East
by the preaching and miracles of St. Francis Xavier,
grant that we, who honor his glorious merits,
may also imitate the example of his virtues.
This we ask through Christ our Lord.

Amen.


Prayer to St. Francis Xavier
Herald of the Gospel

Almighty and everlasting God,
we thank you for your Servant Francis,
whom you called to preach the Gospel
to the peoples of Asia.
Raise up, we pray,
in this and every land
heralds and evangelists of your kingdom,
that your Church may proclaim
the unsearchable riches
of our Savior Jesus Christ;
who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit,
one God, now and for ever.

Amen


Prayer to St. Francis Xavier

Creator God
Inspired by the example of St. Francis,
We pray to you for the courage to be missionaries,
Reaching out and leading others to Jesus.
Like St. Francis
May we help those in need,
May we live a life rooted in prayer and
May we bring Christ to all those we meet.
This we ask through your Son, our Lord, Jesus Christ.

Amen.

For additional prayers, please visit the following link: Devotional Prayers 

The miniature stained glass window of St. Francis Xavier can be seen inside of Saint Jude's Catholic Church, located on 40 Maxim Drive in Hopatcong, NJ, USA.

Photograph Copyright 2010 Loci B. Lenar
Christian-Miracles.com

O Mary Bright Dawn Of The New World

Photograph by Loci B. Lenar

O MARY BRIGHT DAWN OF THE NEW WORLD - Catholic Online

O Mary bright dawn of the new world, Mother of the living, to you do we entrust the cause of life: Look down, O Mother, upon the vast numbers of babies not allowed to be born, of the poor whose lives are made difficult, of men and women who are victims of brutal violence, of the elderly and the sick killed by indifference or out of misguided mercy. Grant that all who believe in your Son may proclaim the Gospel of life with honesty and love to the people of our time. Obtain for them the grace to accept that Gospel as a gift ever new, the joy of celebrating it with gratitude throughout their lives and the courage to bear witness to it resolutely, in order to build, together with all people of good will, the civilization of truth and love, to the praise and glory of God, the Creator and lover of life.

The beautiful miniature stained glass window can be seen inside of Saint Jude's Catholic Church, located on 40 Maxim Drive in Hopatcong, NJ, USA.

For other prayers, please visit the following link: Devotional Prayers

Photograph Copyright 2010 Loci B. Lenar
Christian-Miracles.com

Novena to Saint Joseph

Photograph by Loci B. Lenar

Prayer to Saint Joseph over 1900 Years Old

Say this prayer for nine consecutive mornings

for anything you may desire.

O Saint Joseph, whose protection is so great, so strong, so prompt before the throne of God, I place in you all my interests and desires.

O Saint Joseph, assist me by your powerful intercession and obtain for me from your Divine Son all spiritual blessings through Jesus Christ, Our Lord; so that having engaged here below your heavenly power, I may offer my thanksgiving and homage to the most loving of Fathers.

O Saint Joseph, I never weary contemplating you and Jesus asleep in your arms; I dare not approach while He reposes near your heart. Press Him in my name and kiss His fine head for me, and ask Him to return the Kiss when I draw my dying breath. Amen

O Saint Joseph, hear my prayers and obtain my petitions. O Saint Joseph, pray for us. (Mention your intention)

The following information regarding the St. Joseph Prayer is published in The Pieta Prayer Book by the Miraculous Lady of the Roses, Hickory Corners, Michigan:

The prayer was found in the 50th year of our Lord Jesus Christ. In the 1500's it was sent by the Pope to Emperor Charles when he was going into battle. It is said that whoever shall read this prayer or take it with them, shall never die a sudden death or be drowned, nor shall poison take effect on them; neither shall they fall into the hands of the enemy, or shall be burned in any fire or shall be overpowered in battle.

Make this prayer known everywhere.

Imprimatur
Most Rev. George W. Ahr
Bishop of Trenton

The above intercessory prayer to St. Joseph can be found on Catholic Websites.  For additional prayers, please visit the following link: Devotional Prayers

The statue of St. Joseph holding the infant Jesus can be seen outside of St. Mary's Church, located on Myers Avenue in Denville, NJ, USA.

Photograph Copyright 2010 Loci B. Lenar
Christian-Miracles.com 

Novena Prayer to Our Lady of Good Remedy

Our Lady at St. Mary's Church, Denville, NJ

Photograph by Loci B. Lenar

Novena Prayer to Our Lady of Good Remedy

O Queen of heaven and earth, Most Holy Virgin, we venerate you. You are the beloved Daughter of the Most High God, the chosen Mother of the Incarnate Word, the Immaculate Spouse of the Holy Spirit, the sacred vessel of the Most Holy Trinity.

Mother of the Divine Redeemer, who, under the title of Our Lady of Good Remedy, comes to the aid of all who call upon you, extend your maternal protection to us. We depend on you, dear Mother, as helpless and needy children depend on a tender and caring Mother.

Hail, Mary...

Lady of Good Remedy, source of unfailing help, grant that we may draw from your treasury of graces in our time of need.

Touch the hearts of sinners, that they may seek reconciliation and forgiveness. Bring comfort to the afflicted and the lonely; help the poor and the hopeless; aid the sick and the suffering. May they be healed in body and strengthened in spirit to endure their sufferings with patient resignation and Christian fortitude.

Hail, Mary...

Dear Lady of Good Remedy, source of unfailing help, your compassionate heart knows a remedy for every affliction and misery we encounter in life. Help me, with your prayers and intercession, to find a remedy for my problems and needs, especially for...(indicate your special intentions).

On my part, loving Mother, I pledge myself to a more intensely Christian lifestyle, to a more careful observance of the laws of God, to be more conscientious in fulfilling the obligations of my state in life, and to strive to be a source of healing in this broken world of ours.

Dear Lady of Good Remedy, be ever present to me and, through your intercession, may I enjoy health of body and peace of mind, and grow stronger in the faith, and in the love of your Son, Jesus.

Hail, Mary...

Pray for us, Holy Mother of Good Remedy that we may deepen our dedication to your Son, and make the world alive with His Spirit.

Amen

Our Lady - Photograph by Loci B. Lenar

History of Novena

Eight hundred years ago Christians were being captured and sold into slavery by the thousands, and nobody knew what to do about it; Then,in the year 1198 a man had an idea. John de Matha founded the Trinitarians to go to the slave markets, buy the Christian slaves, and set them free. To carry out this plan, the Trinitarians needed large amounts of money. So, they placed their fund-raising efforts under the patronage of Mary. They were so successful that, over the centuries, the Trinitarians were able to free thousands and thousands of people, and to return them safely home. In gratitude for her miraculous assistance, St. John de Matha honored Mary with the tide of Our Lady of Good Remedy. This ancient devotion is widely known in Europe and Latin America, and the Church celebrates her feast day on October 8. Our Lady of Good Remedy is depicted as the Virgin Mary handing a bag of money to St. John de Matha. When in need, invoke the aid of Our Lady of Good Remedy, and you will surely experience the power of her intercession.

Still white-robed and wearing the red and blue cross, as designed by their founder, the Trinitarians are involved in many and varied apostolates, expressing their love for the Triune God as missionaries, parish priests, chaplains in prisons and hospitals, educators, friends of the left-out, the less fortunate, and all whose faith is in danger.

The above prayer and its history can be found on Catholic websites.

For additional prayers, please visit the following link: Devotional Prayers

The statue of Our Lady can be seen in front of the convent at Saint Mary's Church, located on Myers Avenue in Denville, New Jersey, USA.

Photograph Copyright 2010 Loci B. Lenar
Christian-Miracles.com

Novena Prayer to St. Therese of the Child Jesus

Photograph by Loci B. Lenar

Novena Prayer to Saint Therese

The Twenty-four “Glory be to the Father’s” Novena

The Twenty-four “Glory be to the Father’s” novena can be said at any time. However, the ninth to the seventeenth of the month is particularly recommended, for on those days the petitioner joins in prayer with all those making the novena.

The “Glory be to the Father” praising the Holy Trinity is said twenty-four times each of the nine days, in thanksgiving for all the blessings and favors given to Saint Therese of the Child Jesus during the twenty-four years of her life. In addition, this, or a similar prayer may be used:

“Holy Trinity, God the Father, God the Son, and God the Holy Ghost, I thank Thee for all the blessings and favors Thou hast showered upon the soul of Thy servant Therese of the Child Jesus, during the twenty-four years she spent here on earth, and in consideration of the merits of this Thy most beloved Saint, I beseech Thee to grant me this favor, if it is in accordance with Thy most Holy Will and is not an obstacle to my salvation.”

After this Prayer, follow the twenty-four “Glory be to the Father’s,” between each of which may be included this short prayer:

“Saint Therese of the Child Jesus, pray for us.”

The Glory Be Prayer

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.


ORIGIN OF THE NOVENA

Father Putigan, a Jesuit, began the Novena to Saint Therese of the Child Jesus on December 3, 1925, asking the glorious Saint for one great favor. For nine days he recited the “Glory be to the Father” twenty-four times thanking the Holy Trinity for the favors and Graces showered on Saint Therese during the twenty-four years of her life on earth. The priest asked Saint Therese, that as a sign that his novena was heard he would receive from someone a freshly plucked rose. On the third day of the novena, an unknown person sought out Father Putigan and presented him with a beautiful rose.

Father Putigan began the second novena on December 24 of the same year, and as a sign, asked for a white rose. On the fourth day of this novena one of the Sister-nurses brought him a white rose saying:

“Saint Therese sent you this.”

Amazed, the priest asked:

“Where did you get this?”

“I was in the chapel,” said the Sister, “and as I was leaving I passed the altar above which hangs the beautiful picture of Saint Therese. This rose fell at my feet. I wanted to put it back into the bouquet, but a thought came to me that I should bring it to you.”

Father Putigan received the favors he had petitioned of the Little Flower of Jesus, and promised to spread the novena to increase devotion to, and bring her more honor.

In this fashion, from the ninth to the seventeenth of each month, those who want to participate in the Twenty-four “Glory be to the Father’s” novena, should add to those of their own, the intentions of all who are at that time making the novena, thus forming one great prayer in common.

The above prayer and history of the novena is found on the following link: EWTN

For additional prayers, please visit the following link: Devotional Prayers

The stained glass window of Saint Therese can be seen inside of the St. Anthony of Padua Catholic Church. The church is located on 1360 Pleasant Valley Way in West Orange, New Jersey, USA.

Photograph Copyright 2010 Loci B. Lenar
Christian-Miracles.com

Prayers to Saint Jude: Patron of Hopeless and Desperate Cases

Saint Jude Thaddeus

Photograph by Loci B. Lenar

Prayer to St. Jude

 Patron of Hopeless and Desperate Cases

O most holy apostle, St. Jude, faithful servant and friend of Jesus, the church honors and invokes you universally, as the patron of hopeless cases, of things almost despaired of. Pray for me, I am so helpless and alone.

Make use, I implore you, of that particular privilege given to you, to bring visible and speedy help where help is almost despaired of. Come to my assistance in this great need that I may receive the consolation and help of heaven in all my necessities, tribulations, and sufferings, particularly (state your request) and that I may praise God with you and all the elect forever.

I promise, O blessed St. Jude, to be ever mindful of this great favor, to always honor you as my special and powerful patron, and to gratefully encourage devotion to you. Amen.

Saint Jude Heals King Abgar of Edessa

Photograph by Loci B. Lenar

Prayer To Saint Jude Thaddeus the Apostle

True relative

Of Jesus and Mary,

I salute you through

This Sacred Heart of Jesus!

Through his Heart

I praise and thank God

For all the graces

He has bestowed upon you.

Humbly prostrate before you

I implore you,

Through His Heart,

To look down upon me

With compassion.

Despite my poor prayer;

Let not my trust

Be confounded!

To you God has granted

The privilege of

Aiding mankind

In the most desperate cases.

Oh, come to my aid

Until I can thank you in heaven.

All my life

I will be your grateful client

Until I can thank you in heaven.

Amen.

St. Jude, pray for us

And for all who invoke your aid.

Amen.

Saint Jude Novena

(to be prayed for 9 consecutive days)

Most holy Apostle, St. Jude, faithful servant and friend of Jesus, the Church honors and invokes you universally, as the patron of difficult cases, of things almost despaired of, Pray for me, I am so helpless and alone.

Intercede with God for me that He bring visible and speedy help where help is almost despaired of. Come to my assistance in this great need that I may receive the consolation and help of heaven in all my necessities, tribulations, and sufferings, particularly (make your request here) and that I may praise God with you and all the saints forever. I promise, O Blessed St. Jude, to be ever mindful of this great favor granted me by God and to always honor you as my special and powerful patron, and to gratefully encourage devotion to you. Amen

May the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus be adored, and loved in all the tabernacles until the end of time. Amen.
May the most Sacred Heart of Jesus be praised and glorified now and forever. Amen
St. Jude pray for us and hear our prayers. Amen.

Blessed be the Sacred Heart of Jesus
Blessed be the Immaculate Heart of Mary
Blessed be St. Jude Thaddeus, in all the world and for all Eternity.

Pray the Our Father and the Hail Mary

***

The prayers can be found on Catholic websites.

For additional daily prayers, please visit the following link: Devotional Prayers

For biographical information, please visit the following link: Saint Jude

The upper stained glass window detail of Saint Jude can be seen inside of the St. Anthony of Padua Church. The Catholic church is located on 1360 Pleasant Valley Way in West Orange, New Jersey, USA.

The lower stained glass window of Saint Jude healing King Abgar of Edessa can be seen inside of Saint Jude's Church, located on 40 Maxim Drive in Hopatcong, NJ, USA.

Photographs Copyright 2010 Loci B. Lenar
Christian-Miracles.com