# Novena for Faithful Citizenship – First Day
*2008-10-12*

> Bill Young introduces the first day of a novena for faithful citizenship, reflecting on Psalm 8 and praying for respect, peace, and the protection of human dignity in the public sphere.

## Opening and Purpose

Good afternoon. This is Bill Young, and welcome to the 167th episode of Catholic Podcast Ministries, Prayer and Lunch. Today we begin a novena called “Novena for Faithful Citizenship,” which I found on CatholicVote.com. As election season approaches, we are called to pray for guidance, especially for those who are undecided or need help making a wise choice.

## Opening Prayer

In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.

Come, Holy Spirit, fill the hearts of your faithful and kindle in us the fire of your love. Amen.

## Scripture Reading – Psalm 8

Our first reading is Psalm 8, verses 2 and 4‑10:

"Lord, our Lord, how majestic is your name in all the earth! You have set your glory above the heavens. When I consider your heavens, the work of your fingers, the moon and the stars you have set in place, what is man that you are mindful of him? He is but a little lower than the angels. Yet you have crowned him with glory and honor, and you have given him dominion over the works of your hands—over all things you have put under his feet: the sheep and the oxen, the beasts of the field, the birds of the air, the fish of the sea, and whatever moves in the waters.

## Reflection

How will I praise God today? How will I show respect for others, especially my neighbor and those in my community who are different from me? The psalm reminds us that every person bears the dignity of being created in God’s image, and we are called to honor that dignity in our public and private lives{unclear:  :  :  : }.

## Prayer for Love and Dignity

God of love, we grow in our love for you by respecting the dignity of all people we encounter. Help us to see every human being as a beloved child of God.

## Novena Prayer to the Immaculate Heart of Mary

Immaculate Heart of Mary, help us conquer the menace of evil that so easily takes root in today’s hearts and burdens our world. Deliver us from famine, war, nuclear conflict, and all forms of self‑destruction. Protect us from sins against human life from its very beginning, from hatred, and from any injustice—national or international. Guard us against the trampling of God’s commandments and the silencing of divine truth. Restore awareness of good and evil, and free us from the sins of the Holy Spirit. Mother of Christ, hear the cries of all suffering individuals and societies. With the power of the Holy Spirit, conquer sin in all its manifestations, and let the saving power of redemption and merciful love put an end to evil, transform consciences, and bring the light of hope.

Amen.

*May the Holy Spirit guide us to vote and act with reverence for every human life, fostering a citizenship rooted in love and truth.*