Saturday of the Eighteenth Week in Ordinary Time – A Time of Lectio Divina for the Discerning Heart Podcast

Saturday of the Eighteenth Week in Ordinary Time – A Time of Lectio Divina for the Discerning Heart Podcast

As you begin, take a deep breath and exhale slowly.  For at least the next few moments, surrender all the cares and concerns of this day to the Lord.

Say slowly from your heart “Jesus, I Trust In You…You Take Over”

Become aware that He is with you, looking upon you with love, wanting to be heard deep within in your heart…

From the Holy Gospel According to St. Matthew 17:14-20

A man came up to Jesus and went down on his knees before him. ‘Lord,’ he said ‘take pity on my son: he is a lunatic and in a wretched state; he is always falling into the fire or into the water. I took him to your disciples and they were unable to cure him.’ ‘Faithless and perverse generation!’ Jesus said in reply ‘How much longer must I be with you? How much longer must I put up with you? Bring him here to me.’ And when Jesus rebuked it the devil came out of the boy who was cured from that moment.

Then the disciples came privately to Jesus. ‘Why were we unable to cast it out?’ they asked. He answered, ‘Because you have little faith. I tell you solemnly, if your faith were the size of a mustard seed you could say to this mountain, “Move from here to there,” and it would move; nothing would be impossible for you.’

What word made this passage come alive for you?

What did you sense the Lord saying to you?

Once more give the Lord an opportunity to speak to you:

A man came up to Jesus and went down on his knees before him. ‘Lord,’ he said ‘take pity on my son: he is a lunatic and in a wretched state; he is always falling into the fire or into the water. I took him to your disciples and they were unable to cure him.’ ‘Faithless and perverse generation!’ Jesus said in reply ‘How much longer must I be with you? How much longer must I put up with you? Bring him here to me.’ And when Jesus rebuked it the devil came out of the boy who was cured from that moment.

Then the disciples came privately to Jesus. ‘Why were we unable to cast it out?’ they asked. He answered, ‘Because you have little faith. I tell you solemnly, if your faith were the size of a mustard seed you could say to this mountain, “Move from here to there,” and it would move; nothing would be impossible for you.’

What did your heart feel as you listened?

What did you sense the Lord saying to you?

Once more, through Him, with Him and in Him listen to the Word:

A man came up to Jesus and went down on his knees before him. ‘Lord,’ he said ‘take pity on my son: he is a lunatic and in a wretched state; he is always falling into the fire or into the water. I took him to your disciples and they were unable to cure him.’ ‘Faithless and perverse generation!’ Jesus said in reply ‘How much longer must I be with you? How much longer must I put up with you? Bring him here to me.’ And when Jesus rebuked it the devil came out of the boy who was cured from that moment.

Then the disciples came privately to Jesus. ‘Why were we unable to cast it out?’ they asked. He answered, ‘Because you have little faith. I tell you solemnly, if your faith were the size of a mustard seed you could say to this mountain, “Move from here to there,” and it would move; nothing would be impossible for you.’

What touched your heart in this time of prayer?

What did your heart feel as you prayed?

What do you hope to carry with you from this time with the Lord?


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

Excerpt from THE JERUSALEM BIBLE, copyright (c) 1966 by Darton, Longman & Todd, Ltd. and Doubleday, a division of Penguin Random House, Inc. Reprinted by Permission.

Day 9 – St. Teresa Benedicta of the Cross (Edith Stein) Novena for the Discerning Heart – Discerning Hearts Podcast

A St. Teresa Benedicta of the Cross Novena for the Discerning Heart

Day 9 – Embracing the Cross

From the writings of St. Teresa Benedicta of the Cross

One cannot desire freedom from the Cross when one is especially chosen for the Cross.*

Saint Teresa Benedicta of the Cross speaks to the acceptance of suffering as a necessary part of the Christian life. She suggests that such challenges, often seen as burdens, are opportunities for spiritual growth and deeper communion with Christ. Edith Stein’s acceptance of her own suffering, particularly during the Holocaust, serves as a powerful testament to this belief. Her willingness to embrace the cross, even unto death, illustrates a profound trust in God’s providence and the redemptive power of suffering.

One cannot desire freedom from the Cross when one is especially chosen for the Cross.*

How can you embrace your challenges and sufferings as a part of your spiritual journey and calling?
Accept the difficulties in your life as opportunities for spiritual growth and unity with Christ’s suffering. Offer these challenges in prayer, seeking strength and grace to endure them with faith, and trust in God’s plan for your redemption and sanctification. Emulate the example of Edith Stein, who saw her sufferings as a way to participate in the mystery of the Cross and grow closer to Christ.

A Prayer of St. Teresa Benedicta of the Cross

O my God, fill my soul with holy joy, courage and strength to serve You. Enkindle Your love in me and then walk with me along the next stretch of road before me. I do not see very far ahead, but when I have arrived where the horizon now closes down, a new prospect will open before me and I shall meet with peace

All-powerful, ever-living God,
  you gave Saint Teresa Benedicta of the Cross
  the courage to witness to the gospel of Christ
  even to the point of giving her life for it.
By her prayers, help us to endure all suffering for love of you
  and to seek you with all our hearts,
  for you alone are the source of life.
Grant this through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son,
who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit,
God, for ever and ever.
Amen.
*Citation: Edith Stein, The Collected Works of Edith Stein, Volume 3: The Way of the Cross. Translated by Hilda Graef (ICS Publications, 2006), p. 11.

For the complete 9-Day St. Teresa of Benedicta Novena for the Discerning Hearts visit here

Friday of the Eighteenth Week in Ordinary Time – A Time of Lectio Divina for the Discerning Heart Podcast

Friday of the Eighteenth Week in Ordinary Time – A Time of Lectio Divina for the Discerning Heart Podcast

As you begin, take a deep breath and exhale slowly.  For at least the next few moments, surrender all the cares and concerns of this day to the Lord.

Say slowly from your heart “Jesus, I Trust In You…You Take Over”

Become aware that He is with you, looking upon you with love, wanting to be heard deep within in your heart…

From the Holy Gospel According to St. Matthew 16:24-28

Jesus said to his disciples: ‘If anyone wants to be a follower of mine, let him renounce himself and take up his cross and follow me. For anyone who wants to save his life will lose it; but anyone who loses his life for my sake will find it. What, then, will a man gain if he wins the whole world and ruins his life? Or what has a man to offer in exchange for his life?
‘For the Son of Man is going to come in the glory of his Father with his angels, and, when he does, he will reward each one according to his behaviour. I tell you solemnly, there are some of these standing here who will not taste death before they see the Son of Man coming with his kingdom.’

What word made this passage come alive for you?

What did you sense the Lord saying to you?

Once more give the Lord an opportunity to speak to you:

Jesus said to his disciples: ‘If anyone wants to be a follower of mine, let him renounce himself and take up his cross and follow me. For anyone who wants to save his life will lose it; but anyone who loses his life for my sake will find it. What, then, will a man gain if he wins the whole world and ruins his life? Or what has a man to offer in exchange for his life?
‘For the Son of Man is going to come in the glory of his Father with his angels, and, when he does, he will reward each one according to his behaviour. I tell you solemnly, there are some of these standing here who will not taste death before they see the Son of Man coming with his kingdom.’

What did your heart feel as you listened?

What did you sense the Lord saying to you?

Once more, through Him, with Him and in Him listen to the Word:

Jesus said to his disciples: ‘If anyone wants to be a follower of mine, let him renounce himself and take up his cross and follow me. For anyone who wants to save his life will lose it; but anyone who loses his life for my sake will find it. What, then, will a man gain if he wins the whole world and ruins his life? Or what has a man to offer in exchange for his life?
‘For the Son of Man is going to come in the glory of his Father with his angels, and, when he does, he will reward each one according to his behaviour. I tell you solemnly, there are some of these standing here who will not taste death before they see the Son of Man coming with his kingdom.’

What touched your heart in this time of prayer?

What did your heart feel as you prayed?

What do you hope to carry with you from this time with the Lord?


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

Excerpt from THE JERUSALEM BIBLE, copyright (c) 1966 by Darton, Longman & Todd, Ltd. and Doubleday, a division of Penguin Random House, Inc. Reprinted by Permission.

Day 2 – Novena in Honor of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary

Lord Jesus Christ, You have destroyed the power of death and given the hope of eternal life in body and soul.

You granted your Mother a special place in your glory, and did not allow decay to touch her body.

As we rejoice in the Assumption of Mary, give to us a renewed confidence in the victory of
life over death.

You live and reign forever and ever.

Amen.

Day 2

Mary, Assumed into Heaven, we venerate you as the Queen of Heaven and earth. As you tasted the bitterness of pain and sorrow with your Son on earth, you now enjoy eternal bliss with Him in Heaven.

Loving Queen, intercede for us in our needs.

(mention your request)

We praise Jesus for giving us such a loving mother.

O Queen Assumed into Heaven, pray for us.

Amen.

Day 8 – St. Teresa Benedicta of the Cross (Edith Stein) Novena for the Discerning Heart – Discerning Hearts Podcast

A St. Teresa Benedicta of the Cross Novena for the Discerning Heart

Day 8 – Love of Neighbor

From the writings of St. Teresa Benedicta of the Cross

Our love of neighbour is the measure of our love of God. For Christians—and not only for them—no one is a ‘stranger’. The love of Christ knows no borders.*

Saint Teresa Benedicta of the Cross emphasizes the universal call to love, suggesting that our love for others reflects our love for God. This love transcends boundaries, reaching beyond personal preferences and prejudices to embrace all people. Edith Stein, through her writings and her life, including her solidarity with her Jewish heritage during the Holocaust, demonstrated an expansive and inclusive love rooted in God’s example. This perspective challenges us to practice inclusive and unconditional love, mirroring Christ’s boundless love for humanity.

Our love of neighbour is the measure of our love of God. For Christians—and not only for them—no one is a ‘stranger’. The love of Christ knows no borders.*

How can you expand your understanding of love to include all people, regardless of differences?
Strive to see each person as a child of God, deserving of love and respect. Actively work to break down barriers of prejudice and division, and seek to serve others with compassion and humility, reflecting the inclusive love of Christ. Engage in acts of charity and outreach, particularly those who are marginalized or in need, embodying the Christian call to love without limits.

A Prayer of St. Teresa Benedicta of the Cross

O my God, fill my soul with holy joy, courage and strength to serve You. Enkindle Your love in me and then walk with me along the next stretch of road before me. I do not see very far ahead, but when I have arrived where the horizon now closes down, a new prospect will open before me and I shall meet with peace

All-powerful, ever-living God,
  you gave Saint Teresa Benedicta of the Cross
  the courage to witness to the gospel of Christ
  even to the point of giving her life for it.
By her prayers, help us to endure all suffering for love of you
  and to seek you with all our hearts,
  for you alone are the source of life.
Grant this through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son,
who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit,
God, for ever and ever.
Amen.
*Citation: Edith Stein, On the Mystery of Christmas (Intellectual Charity, 2012), p. 25

For the complete 9-Day St. Teresa of Benedicta Novena for the Discerning Hearts visit here

Day 9 – A St. Dominic Novena for the Discerning Heart – Discerning Hearts Podcast

A Novena to St. Dominic for the Discerning Heart

Day 9 – Enduring Influence

A teaching from St. Dominic:

“Do not weep, for I shall be more useful to you after my death and shall help you then more effectively than during my life.”

St. Dominic’s life was a testament to his deep faith in the communion of saints, believing that he would continue to intercede for his followers after death. This reflects the Catholic belief that saints remain actively involved in the lives of the faithful, offering prayers and support from heaven. It provides comfort and a sense of connection to the larger community of believers, both living and deceased.

“Do not weep, for I shall be more useful to you after my death and shall help you then more effectively than during my life.”

How do you find comfort or guidance in the teachings and lives of spiritual figures?
Finding comfort and guidance involves studying the lives of saints and their writings to draw inspiration and learn from their examples. Praying for the intercession of saints, like St. Dominic, can bring spiritual support and guidance. Participate in the Church’s liturgical life, especially during feasts dedicated to saints, to deepen your connection with the communion of saints. Reflect on their virtues and strive to emulate their dedication to God in your own life. Additionally, forming or joining a community that shares devotion to a particular saint can provide mutual support and encouragement.

“Do not weep, for I shall be more useful to you after my death and shall help you then more effectively than during my life.”

The Dominican Blessing, from an anonymous 13th-century English Dominican, captures St. Dominic’s timeless call for blessings, healing, and divine guidance.

May God the Father, who made us, bless us.

May God the Son, who redeemed us, send healing into our midst.

May God the Holy Spirit, who gives us life, move within us.

May God give us eyes to see to God, ears to hear God, and hands to bring God’s work into the world.

May we walk with God and preach the word of God to all.

May the angel of peace watch over us and lead us at last by God’s grace to the eternal Kingdom.

Amen

Lord God,
  you gave Saint Dominic to the Church of his day
  as a great preacher of your truth.
We pray that he will help us in our time
  by his merits, his teaching, and his unfailing prayer.
Through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son,
who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit,
God, for ever and ever.
Amen.
St. Dominic Quotation taken from: Constitutions of the Order of Preachers

For the complete 9-Day Novena to St. Dominic visit here

Thursday of the Eighteenth Week in Ordinary Time – A Time of Lectio Divina for the Discerning Heart Podcast

Thursday of the Eighteenth Week in Ordinary Time – A Time of Lectio Divina for the Discerning Heart Podcast

As you begin, take a deep breath and exhale slowly.  For at least the next few moments, surrender all the cares and concerns of this day to the Lord.

Say slowly from your heart “Jesus, I Trust In You…You Take Over”

Become aware that He is with you, looking upon you with love, wanting to be heard deep within in your heart…

From the Holy Gospel According to Matthew 16:13-23

When Jesus came to the region of Caesarea Philippi he put this question to his disciples, ‘Who do people say the Son of Man is?’ And they said, ‘Some say he is John the Baptist, some Elijah, and others Jeremiah or one of the prophets.’ ‘But you,’ he said ‘who do you say I am?’ Then Simon Peter spoke up, ‘You are the Christ,’ he said, ‘the Son of the living God.’ Jesus replied, ‘Simon son of Jonah, you are a happy man! Because it was not flesh and blood that revealed this to you but my Father in heaven. So I now say to you: You are Peter and on this rock I will build my Church. And the gates of the underworld can never hold out against it. I will give you the keys of the kingdom of heaven: whatever you bind on earth shall be considered bound in heaven; whatever you loose on earth shall be considered loosed in heaven.’ Then he gave the disciples strict orders not to tell anyone that he was the Christ.
From that time Jesus began to make it clear to his disciples that he was destined to go to Jerusalem and suffer grievously at the hands of the elders and chief priests and scribes, to be put to death and to be raised up on the third day. Then, taking him aside, Peter started to remonstrate with him. ‘Heaven preserve you, Lord;’ he said ‘this must not happen to you.’ But he turned and said to Peter, ‘Get behind me, Satan! You are an obstacle in my path, because the way you think is not God’s way but man’s.’

What word made this passage come alive for you?

What did you sense the Lord saying to you?

Once more give the Lord an opportunity to speak to you:

When Jesus came to the region of Caesarea Philippi he put this question to his disciples, ‘Who do people say the Son of Man is?’ And they said, ‘Some say he is John the Baptist, some Elijah, and others Jeremiah or one of the prophets.’ ‘But you,’ he said ‘who do you say I am?’ Then Simon Peter spoke up, ‘You are the Christ,’ he said, ‘the Son of the living God.’ Jesus replied, ‘Simon son of Jonah, you are a happy man! Because it was not flesh and blood that revealed this to you but my Father in heaven. So I now say to you: You are Peter and on this rock I will build my Church. And the gates of the underworld can never hold out against it. I will give you the keys of the kingdom of heaven: whatever you bind on earth shall be considered bound in heaven; whatever you loose on earth shall be considered loosed in heaven.’ Then he gave the disciples strict orders not to tell anyone that he was the Christ.
From that time Jesus began to make it clear to his disciples that he was destined to go to Jerusalem and suffer grievously at the hands of the elders and chief priests and scribes, to be put to death and to be raised up on the third day. Then, taking him aside, Peter started to remonstrate with him. ‘Heaven preserve you, Lord;’ he said ‘this must not happen to you.’ But he turned and said to Peter, ‘Get behind me, Satan! You are an obstacle in my path, because the way you think is not God’s way but man’s.’

What did your heart feel as you listened?

What did you sense the Lord saying to you?

Once more, through Him, with Him and in Him listen to the Word:

When Jesus came to the region of Caesarea Philippi he put this question to his disciples, ‘Who do people say the Son of Man is?’ And they said, ‘Some say he is John the Baptist, some Elijah, and others Jeremiah or one of the prophets.’ ‘But you,’ he said ‘who do you say I am?’ Then Simon Peter spoke up, ‘You are the Christ,’ he said, ‘the Son of the living God.’ Jesus replied, ‘Simon son of Jonah, you are a happy man! Because it was not flesh and blood that revealed this to you but my Father in heaven. So I now say to you: You are Peter and on this rock I will build my Church. And the gates of the underworld can never hold out against it. I will give you the keys of the kingdom of heaven: whatever you bind on earth shall be considered bound in heaven; whatever you loose on earth shall be considered loosed in heaven.’ Then he gave the disciples strict orders not to tell anyone that he was the Christ.
From that time Jesus began to make it clear to his disciples that he was destined to go to Jerusalem and suffer grievously at the hands of the elders and chief priests and scribes, to be put to death and to be raised up on the third day. Then, taking him aside, Peter started to remonstrate with him. ‘Heaven preserve you, Lord;’ he said ‘this must not happen to you.’ But he turned and said to Peter, ‘Get behind me, Satan! You are an obstacle in my path, because the way you think is not God’s way but man’s.’

What touched your heart in this time of prayer?

What did your heart feel as you prayed?

What do you hope to carry with you from this time with the Lord?


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

Excerpt from THE JERUSALEM BIBLE, copyright (c) 1966 by Darton, Longman & Todd, Ltd. and Doubleday, a division of Penguin Random House, Inc. Reprinted by Permission.

Day 1 – Novena in Honor of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary – Discerning Hearts Catholic Podcasts

Lord Jesus Christ, You have destroyed the power of death and given the hope of eternal life in body and soul.
You granted your Mother a special place in your glory, and did not allow decay to touch her body.
As we rejoice in the Assumption of Mary, give to us a renewed confidence in the victory of life over death.
You live and reign forever and ever.
Amen.

Day 1

Immaculate Virgin, Mother of Jesus and our Mother, we believe in your triumphant assumption into heaven where the angels and saints acclaim you as Queen of Heaven and earth.
We join them in praising you and bless the Lord who raised you above all creatures. With them we honor you.
We are confident that you watch over our daily lives and we ask that you intercede for us now.

(mention your request)

We are comforted by our faith in the coming Resurrection and we look to you for prayers and comfort.
After this earthly life, show us Jesus, the blest fruit of your womb, O kind, O loving, O sweet Virgin Mary.
O Queen Assumed into Heaven, pray for us.
Amen.

Day 7 – St. Teresa Benedicta of the Cross (Edith Stein) Novena for the Discerning Heart – Discerning Hearts Podcast

A St. Teresa Benedicta of the Cross Novena for the Discerning Heart

Day 7 – Quest for Truth

From the writings of St. Teresa Benedicta of the Cross

Anyone who seeks the truth is seeking God, whether consciously or unconsciously.*

Saint Teresa Benedicta of the Cross underscores the intrinsic connection between the search for truth and the search for God. She suggests that all genuine quests for truth, in any form, are ultimately directed toward God, the source of all truth. This idea encourages us to view our intellectual pursuits and spiritual journeys as deeply interconnected. Edith Stein, a renowned philosopher and theologian, experienced this connection profoundly in her own life, leading her to embrace the Catholic faith and eventually become a Carmelite nun.

Anyone who seeks the truth is seeking God, whether consciously or unconsciously.*

How can you approach your search for truth as a journey toward God, and how does this understanding influence your daily life and interactions?Approach all inquiries and learning with the awareness that they are paths to discovering God. Allow this perspective to inspire integrity and humility in your quest for knowledge, recognizing each step as part of a larger spiritual journey. Deepen your quest for truth by immersing yourself in the Sacred Scriptures, the teachings of the Church, and the writings of the saints. Participate regularly in the sacramental life of the Church, particularly in the Eucharist and Confession, which provide spiritual nourishment and guidance. Seek the intercession of the Blessed Virgin Mary, Seat of Wisdom, and ask for her guidance in your studies and pursuits. Engage in prayer and contemplation, allowing the Holy Spirit to enlighten your mind and heart, leading you closer to the fullness of truth found in Christ. This understanding enriches your interactions with others, fostering respect and openness, and encourages you to live out the truths of the Catholic faith in your daily life.

A Prayer of St. Teresa Benedicta of the Cross

O my God, fill my soul with holy joy, courage and strength to serve You. Enkindle Your love in me and then walk with me along the next stretch of road before me. I do not see very far ahead, but when I have arrived where the horizon now closes down, a new prospect will open before me and I shall meet with peace

All-powerful, ever-living God,
  you gave Saint Teresa Benedicta of the Cross
  the courage to witness to the gospel of Christ
  even to the point of giving her life for it.
By her prayers, help us to endure all suffering for love of you
  and to seek you with all our hearts,
  for you alone are the source of life.
Grant this through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son,
who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit,
God, for ever and ever.
Amen.
*Citation: Edith Stein, Finest Quotes: Collected Works of Edith Stein. ICS Publications.

For the complete 9-Day St. Teresa of Benedicta Novena for the Discerning Hearts visit here

Day 8 – A St. Dominic Novena for the Discerning Heart – Discerning Hearts Podcast

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A Novena to St. Dominic for the Discerning Heart

Day 8 – Rosary Devotion

A teaching from St. Dominic:

“Whoever devoutly serves the Blessed Virgin through the recitation of the Rosary will infallibly receive blessings according to their spiritual and temporal needs.”

St. Dominic’s words emphasize the profound importance and power of the Rosary in the life of a faithful Christian. According to tradition, St. Dominic was given the Rosary by the Blessed Virgin Mary in an apparition after his prayer and fasting seeking a way to combat heresy spreading in the world. During his time, many people did not have access to the Bible in their homes. The Rosary became a means of catechizing the faithful through prayerful reflection and immersion in the Gospel message. By responding to the Blessed Virgin Mary’s call to pray the Rosary, we follow her guidance and grow closer to her Son, Jesus Christ. The Rosary is a personal prayer and a means of calling upon God’s grace for ourselves and the world. Each mystery draws us into the biblical narrative, helping us to embrace and live out the teachings of the Gospel. This practice deepens our understanding of Scripture and strengthens our relationship with God, opening us to receive blessings that address both our spiritual and temporal needs.

“Whoever devoutly serves the Blessed Virgin through the recitation of the Rosary will infallibly receive blessings according to their spiritual and temporal needs.”

How can you incorporate the regular recitation of the Rosary into your life, seeking blessings and growing in your understanding and relationship with Christ, as well as addressing the needs of the world?
To incorporate the Rosary into your life, dedicate a specific time each day for its recitation. Focus on the mysteries, which reflect significant events in the life of Christ and Mary, as presented in Scripture and Tradition. Meditating on these mysteries helps embrace Gospel teachings and apply them to daily life. This practice not only strengthens our connection with God but also allows us to receive unseen graces that extend beyond our personal needs to address the spiritual and temporal needs of the world. Through the Rosary, we can intercede for global peace, healing, and conversion, trusting that our prayers contribute to the outpouring of divine grace for the benefit of all.

“Whoever devoutly serves the Blessed Virgin through the recitation of the Rosary will infallibly receive blessings according to their spiritual and temporal needs.”

The Dominican Blessing, from an anonymous 13th-century English Dominican, captures St. Dominic’s timeless call for blessings, healing, and divine guidance.

May God the Father, who made us, bless us.

May God the Son, who redeemed us, send healing into our midst.

May God the Holy Spirit, who gives us life, move within us.

May God give us eyes to see to God, ears to hear God, and hands to bring God’s work into the world.

May we walk with God and preach the word of God to all.

May the angel of peace watch over us and lead us at last by God’s grace to the eternal Kingdom.

Amen

Lord God,
  you gave Saint Dominic to the Church of his day
  as a great preacher of your truth.
We pray that he will help us in our time
  by his merits, his teaching, and his unfailing prayer.
Through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son,
who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit,
God, for ever and ever.
Amen.
St. Dominic Quotation taken from: Constitutions of the Order of Preachers

For the complete 9-Day Novena to St. Dominic visit here