Knights of Columbus Novena
Repentance, Renewal, and Rebuilding
As bishops from around the world meet with Pope Francis Feb. 21-24 to discuss the sexual abuse crisis, the Knights of Columbus will embark on nine days of prayer for the success of this landmark Vatican meeting.
Day 1: February 20, 2019 “In their distress, they cried to the Lord, who saved them in their peril, sent forth his word to heal them, and snatched them from the grave. Let them thank the Lord for his mercy, such wondrous deeds for the children of Adam.” Ps 107:19-21 Heavenly Father, we cry out to you today to heal those who are victim-survivors of abuse. May they know the depth of your healing love
Day 2: February 21, 2019 “Keep watch over yourselves and over the whole flock of which the Holy Spirit has appointed you overseers, in which you tend the church of God that he acquired with his own blood.” Acts 20:28 HeavenlyFather, as Pope Francis and bishops who head episcopal conferences begin their meeting in Rome, grant them wisdom, humility, and courage as they discern your holy will.
Day 3: February 22, 2019 “And when the demon was driven out the mute person spoke.” Mt 9:33 Lord, it was you who conquered sin and death. We pray for the purification of the Church from the evil of sexual abuse. May our Church speak and know the truth that can only come through you.
Day 4: February 23, 2019 “Then the peace of God that surpasses all understanding will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.” Phil 4:7 Heavenly Father, bless the discernment process of Pope Francis and the bishops who are meeting in Rome this very day. May they emulate Jesus by radically and intentionally giving of themselves to heal the Church.
Day 5: February 24, 2019 “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, on your own intelligence, do not rely on; In all your ways be mindful of him, and he will make straighten your paths.” Prv 3:5-6 Dear Lord, we ask that you strengthen our Holy Father and bishops as they seek to restore trust in the Church, and renew those whose faith has been shaken by scandal.
Day 6: February 25, 2019 “The Lord rebuilds … healing the brokenhearted, and binding up their wounds.” Ps 147:3 Lord, it is only through you that we are truly healed. May all victim survivors of sexual abuse offer you their suffering, so that their hearts may be joined with yours.
Day 7: February 26, 2019 “For the grace of God has appeared, saving all and training us to reject godless ways and worldly desires and to live temperately, justly, and devoutly in this age.” Titus 2:11-12 Blessed Mother, we ask that you intercede for our priests, so that they may always know the love that your mantle provides. By dying unto themselves, may they empty their hearts of all worldly desires and radiate the love of your Son, Jesus.
Day 8: February 27, 2019 “But now, thus says the Lord, who created you, Jacob, and formed you, Israel: Fear not, for I have redeemed you; I have called you by name: you are mine.” Is 43:1 Lord, we pray for all seminarians. For those whom you are calling to the priesthood, may they never doubt your will as they boldly follow you.
Day 9: February 28, 2019 “For through faith you are all children of God in Christ Jesus. For all of you who were baptized into Christ have clothed yourselves with Christ.” Gal 3:26-27 Lord, we pray for an abundance of holiness in the entire Church. We ask for your blessing and mercy on us all, that we may truly be one Body in Christ.
Conclude each day with one OurFather, Hail Mary and Glory Be. Then recite the Prayer to St. Michael: St. Michael the Archangel, defend us in battle. Be our protection against the wickedness and snares of the Devil. May God rebuke him, we humbly pray and do thou, O Prince of the heavenly hosts, by the power of God, cast into hell Satan, and all the evil spirits, who prowl about the world seeking the ruin of souls. Amen.