# Prayer for the Seven Gifts of the Holy Spirit and Day Three of the Our Lady of Lourdes Novena
*2017-02-03*

> Bill Young leads a prayer for the seven gifts of the Holy Spirit, continues the third day of the Our Lady of Lourdes novena, and offers petitions for the unborn, political leaders, and those demonstrating for life.

## Feast of St. Joseph of Leonissa

Today, February 4th, is the feast day of St. Joseph of Leonissa (January 8, 1556 – February 4, 1612), a 17th‑century priest and martyr who proclaimed the Gospel with great zeal. We ask his intercession as we pray for the gifts of the Holy Spirit.

## Prayer for the Seven Gifts of the Holy Spirit

Lord Jesus Christ, before ascending into heaven you promised to send the Holy Spirit to complete your work in the apostles. Grant that we may receive the same Holy Spirit, that He may perfect the work of your grace in our souls.

Grant us the Spirit of Wisdom, that we may not cling to the fleeting things of this world but desire what lasts for eternity.
Grant us the Spirit of Understanding, that divine truth may enlighten our minds.
Grant us the Spirit of Right Judgment, that we may always choose the way that pleases God.
Grant us the Spirit of Courage, that we may bear our cross with fortitude.
Grant us the Spirit of Knowledge, that we may come to know God and ourselves more deeply, growing in holiness like the saints.
Grant us the Spirit of Piety, that with childlike love we may serve God sweetly and reverently.
Grant us the Spirit of Fear of the Lord, that we may always respect God and avoid displeasing Him.
Seal us with the mark of true discipleship and inspire us in all we do. Amen.

## Third Day of the Our Lady of Lourdes Novena

We continue the novena to Our Lady of Lourdes, which began on February 2 and will conclude on February 10. The novena recalls Pope Pius IX’s solemn proclamation of the dogma of the Immaculate Conception (December 8, 1854) and the apparition to Bernadette Soubirous (March 25, 1858).

Our Lady of Lourdes, Immaculate Virgin, pray for us. Mother of our Divine Savior, pray for us. You who chose a humble girl to be your instrument, pray for us. You who caused a spring to flow from the earth for the comfort of pilgrims, pray for us. Dispenser of heavenly gifts, pray for us. To you no request is denied, pray for us. Advocate of souls in purgatory, pray for us. Virgin of the Holy Rosary, pray for us.

Lamb of God, who takes away the sins of the world, have mercy on us. Lord, through the intercession of Our Lady of Lourdes, grant us the graces promised in this novena: strength, peace, and the perseverance to do good deeds.

## Petitions for Life and Leadership

We pray for an end to abortion, that the unborn may be protected from conception to natural death. May those who demonstrate for life be guided by true wisdom and courage.

We also lift up our political leaders—President Donald Trump, Vice President Mike Pence, and all members of the administration—asking that the Holy Spirit bestow upon them the seven gifts we have just prayed for, that they may govern with justice and protect the innocent.

Finally, we pray for those who oppose life, including those who fund anti‑life activities. May the Holy Spirit work in their hearts, bringing conversion and repentance.

## Closing Prayer and Practical Reminders

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

Remember to go to confession, pray the Rosary, and receive Holy Communion. I encourage you to join me at St. Maxwell’s or St. David’s for the 5 p.m. Mass and to make a rosary during the hour of the liturgy.

*May the Holy Spirit fill us with His gifts so we can stand firm for life, truth, and love.*