# Singing the Praises of Mary Every Day
*2016-01-02*

> Bill Young reflects on the feast of St. Basil the Great and leads a short prayer honoring the Blessed Virgin Mary, encouraging daily devotion to her.

## Feast of St. Basil the Great

Good afternoon, this is Bill Young and welcome to the Prayer at Lunch podcast. Today is Saturday, January 2nd, the feast day of St. Basil the Great. Basil was an early bishop in the fourth century, a great teacher and saint who founded what is considered the first monastery in Asia Minor.

## January’s Marian Focus

January is dedicated to the baby Jesus, and of course to His mother, Mary, who carried Him and cared for Him from infancy to adulthood. In honor of this, we will sing a short prayer that praises Mary each day.

## Prayer: Sing the Praises of Mary Every Day

Sing the praises of Mary every day.
Oh my soul, venerate her feast and the wonderful mysteries.
Oh pure one, without a stain, may I praise you with a pure and serene heart.
May I be chaste, modest, sweet, good, moderate, devoted, and honest, both shrewd and simple.
May I draw knowledge and courage from the Word of God.
May I be attentive and shine with good deeds.
Holy Virgin, see how many dangers we face; sustain us that we may remain steadfast and secure. Protect and help all Christians.

*Daily devotion to Mary strengthens our faith and helps us face life's challenges with grace.*