INSPIRING NOVENA TO SAINT LAWRENCE, DEACON & MARTYR: DAY 2

Opening Prayer for Day 2

Heavenly Father, as we continue this novena in honor of Saint Lawrence, we humbly come before you seeking inspiration and guidance from his life of faith and martyrdom. Help us to grow in our love for you and our fellow human beings, especially those who are marginalized and in need. Through the intercession of Saint Lawrence, may we find the strength to face our trials and challenges with unwavering trust in your providence (Pause & add your intentions). We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen.

Life, Examples & Legacies (Part 2)

Saint Lawrence’s life was marked by a deep love for Christ and a passionate devotion to serving others, particularly the poor and vulnerable. His dedication to the Christian faith led him to boldly proclaim the Gospel, even in the face of persecution and death. Lawrence’s commitment to Christ was evident not only in his words but also in his actions. He recognized the dignity and worth of every person, especially those who society often overlooked. Lawrence’s response to the Roman authorities demanding the treasures of the Church teaches us a profound lesson. Instead of clinging to material possessions or yielding to fear, he chose to give everything to the poor. His actions embodied the Gospel message of selflessness, sacrifice, and love for one’s neighbor. Lawrence’s life echoes the words of Jesus, who said, “Whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me” (Matthew 25:40). His martyrdom, too, stands as a testament to his unyielding faith and trust in God. Faced with the unimaginable pain and suffering of being grilled alive, Saint Lawrence did not waver. His steadfastness in the face of torture and death points to the eternal hope he found in Christ, whose love conquered even the greatest of trials.

Meditation for Day 2

As we meditate on the life of Saint Lawrence, let us contemplate the virtues he exemplified: love, compassion, and steadfastness in the face of adversity. Let us examine our own lives and ask ourselves how we can better imitate his selfless love for others. May his example remind us to see Christ in the faces of those around us, especially the less fortunate, and to serve them with joy and generosity. Let us also pray for the strength to remain faithful to Christ, even in times of trial, knowing that our hope and ultimate victory lie in Him.

Scriptural Reflection

• 1 Peter 4:12-13: “Beloved, do not be surprised at the fiery trial when it comes upon you to test you, as though something strange were happening to you. But rejoice insofar as you share Christ’s sufferings, that you may also rejoice and be glad when his glory is revealed.”

Litany of Saint Lawrence

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 Spirit, have mercy on us.
Holy Trinity, one God, have mercy on us.
Holy Mary, pray for us.
Saint Lawrence, pray for us.
Beloved son of the Church, pray for us.
Courageous martyr of Christ, pray for us.
Zealous defender of the faith, pray for us.
Lover of the poor, pray for us.
Servant of the suffering, pray for us.
Patron of deacons, pray for us.
Example of virtue, pray for us.
Faithful follower of Christ, pray for us.
Hope of the hopeless, pray for us.
Man of unshakable faith, pray for us.
Witness to the Gospel, pray for us.
Lover of God’s creation, pray for us.
Holy Lawrence, pray for us.

Concluding Prayer

God of all goodness, through the example and intercession of Saint Lawrence, may we grow in love and devotion to you. Help us to recognize the value of every human life and to serve others with the same selflessness that characterized the life of your faithful servant. Grant us the courage to face any persecution or trial that may come our way, knowing that you are always with us. We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen.

Shalom!
Fr. Chinaka Justin Mbaeri, OSJ
Paroquia Nossa Senhora de Loreto, São Paulo, Brazil
nozickcjoe@gmail.com / fadacjay@gmail.com
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PS: Have you prayed your Rosary today?