# Day Four of the Novena: Saint John Neumann
*2008-10-27*

> Bill Young continues the four‑day novena to three American saints, focusing on Saint John Neumann, his missionary work, and a prayer for the protection of life.

## Introducing Saint John Neumann

Good morning, I’m Bill Young. Today is day four of our novena to three American saints for life. Saint John Neumann came to the United States in 1836 as one of thirty‑six priests sent to serve the growing Catholic population of New York and New Jersey. He ministered in Buffalo, Pittsburgh, and Baltimore before becoming Bishop of Philadelphia, where he was tireless in his love for the people of the United States. He died in 1860 while on his way to deliver a chalice to a missionary priest.

## Prayer for Day Four

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

Saint John Neumann, loyal son, faithful priest, and tireless bishop, you worked to support and defend life in all its wonder. Intercede for the Church you loved with all your heart, that we may be faithful witnesses to the Gospel of life. Through Christ our Lord, Amen.

## Petition for Families and Children

Faithful son of faithful parents, teach us to honor our parents as they grow old. Immigrants and strangers, inspire us to welcome the rejected of the world. Protector of the young, inspire us to work for the safety of all children.

## Traditional Prayers

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; lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. Amen.

Hail Mary, full of grace, the Lord is with thee; blessed art thou among women, and blessed is the fruit of thy womb, Jesus. Holy Mary, Mother of God, pray for us sinners now and at the hour of our death. Amen.

Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit, as it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, world without end. Amen.

*May Saint John Neumann’s example inspire us to protect and cherish every human life.*