INSPIRING NOVENA TO SAINT LAWRENCE, DEACON & MARTYR: DAY 7

Opening Prayer for Day 7

O God, on this seventh day of the novena, we come before you to honor and seek the intercession of Saint Lawrence, your faithful servant and martyr. We thank you for the lessons we have learned from his life of devotion and selflessness. As we meditate on his witness today, may we be inspired to imitate his unwavering faith and his love for the poor and marginalized. Through the intercession of Saint Lawrence, may we grow in holiness and become more faithful disciples of your Son, Jesus Christ (Pause & add your intentions). We ask this in His holy name. Amen.

Life, Examples & Legacies (Part 7)

Saint Lawrence’s life was a testament to his profound love for the poor and his unwavering commitment to serve them. As a deacon, he understood that the Church’s mission extended beyond the walls of its buildings, and he actively sought out those in need, caring for them with compassion and generosity. When confronted with the demands of the Roman authorities, Lawrence’s response was not one of fear or self-preservation. Instead, he demonstrated remarkable courage by choosing to give everything to the poor, trusting in God’s providence for both himself and those he served. This act of selflessness resonates with the teachings of Jesus, who said, “It is more blessed to give than to receive” (Acts 20:35). Saint Lawrence’s love for the poor and his refusal to renounce his faith in Christ ultimately led to his martyrdom. His example challenges us to examine our own lives and consider how we prioritize and use our resources. Do we emulate Saint Lawrence’s willingness to give generously to those in need? Are we attentive to the cry of the poor and the suffering in our midst? Furthermore, Saint Lawrence’s martyrdom calls us to reflect on our own commitment to Christ. In times of trial or persecution, are we willing to stand firm in our faith, even if it means facing difficulties or opposition? May Saint Lawrence’s witness inspire us to remain faithful to Christ’s teachings, even in challenging circumstances, knowing that our ultimate treasure lies in Him.

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Meditation for Day 7

As we meditate on the life of Saint Lawrence, let us reflect on our own attitudes toward the poor and marginalized. Are we truly attentive to their needs, and do we respond with love and compassion? Let us also pray for the grace to be steadfast in our faith, even when faced with challenges or temptations to compromise our beliefs. May the example of Saint Lawrence inspire us to live with selflessness, courage, and unyielding dedication to Christ and His Gospel.

Scriptural Reflection

• James 1:12: “Blessed is the man who remains steadfast under trial, for when he has stood the test, he will receive the crown of life, which God has promised to those who love him.”

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 love and mercy, on this seventh day of the novena, we thank you for the witness of Saint Lawrence, who showed us the true meaning of selflessness and faithfulness. Through his intercession, may we grow in our love for the poor and our commitment to serve them with compassion and generosity. Grant us the grace to remain steadfast in our faith, even in the face of difficulties or persecution. May we follow the example of Saint Lawrence, living lives of love and service, and bearing witness to the Gospel in all that we do. 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?