INSPIRING NOVENA TO SAINT ALOYSIUS GONZAGA, RELIGIOUS – PATRON SAINT OF THE YOUTH, AIDS PATIENTS: DAY 8 (For the protection of children and the youth)

(Do you seek inspiration in your studies or strive to live a life of purity and service? Do you need strength to remain steadfast in your faith and compassionate in your actions? Then turn to St. Aloysius of Gonzaga, the patron saint of youth and students, known for his deep piety, commitment to chastity, and compassionate dedication to those in need)

Opening Prayer for Day 8

O Holy Saint Aloysius Gonzaga, you dedicated your life to serving and protecting the young and vulnerable. Pray for us, that we may also seek to protect and nurture the children and youth in our communities. May they grow in wisdom, strength, and grace under God’s loving care. (Add your personal intention).

Scriptural Reading, Life, Examples & Legacies (Part 8)

Matthew 18:2-4;10: “He called a little child to him, and placed the child among them. And he said: ‘Truly I tell you, unless you change and become like little children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven. Therefore, whoever takes the lowly position of this child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven.’ “See that you do not despise one of these little ones. For I tell you that their angels in heaven always see the face of my Father in heaven.”

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Saint Aloysius Gonzaga, renowned for his profound commitment to purity and piety from a young age, devoted himself to the service of God and the well-being of others, particularly the young. Despite the privileges of his noble birth, he chose a path of humility and dedication to the less fortunate, especially children and the sick. His deep love for Christ inspired him to view every child as a reflection of God’s innocence and purity. He tirelessly worked to educate and care for the youth, providing them with spiritual guidance and protection. His life testifies to the importance of nurturing and safeguarding the younger generation, recognizing their potential to shape the future of the Church and the world.

Reflect on how we can contribute to the protection and development of children and youth in our own lives. Consider ways to support and mentor the young, providing them with a foundation of faith, love, and security. Just as Saint Aloysius saw the face of Christ in every child, let us strive to see and nurture the divine potential in each young person we encounter.

Litany of Saint Aloysius Gonzaga

Lord, have mercy on us.
Christ, have mercy on us.
Lord, have mercy on us.
Christ, hear us.
Christ, graciously hear us.
God the Father of Heaven, have mercy on us.
God the Son, Redeemer of the world, have mercy on us.
God the Holy Spirit, have mercy on us.
Holy Trinity, One God, have mercy on us.

Holy Mary, Queen of Angels, pray for us.
Saint Aloysius Gonzaga, pray for us.
Patron of Youth, pray for us.
Model of Humility, pray for us.
Exemplar of Purity, pray for us.
Mirror of Penitents, pray for us.
Lover of the Poor, pray for us.
Comforter of the Afflicted, pray for us.
Defender of the Faith, pray for us.
Zealous Worker for Souls, pray for us.
Inspiration for Students, pray for us.
Example of Piety, pray for us.
Devoted Servant of Jesus, pray for us.
Faithful Follower of Mary, pray for us.
Saint Aloysius Gonzaga, intercede for us.

Lamb of God, who takes away the sins of the world, spare us, O Lord.
Lamb of God, who takes away the sins of the world, graciously hear us, O Lord.
Lamb of God, who takes away the sins of the world, have mercy on us.

Pray for us, Saint Aloysius Gonzaga,
That we may be made worthy of the promises of Christ.

Concluding Prayer

Heavenly Father, by the intercession of Saint Aloysius Gonzaga, grant us the grace to protect and nurture the children and youth in our communities. May we provide them with the love, guidance, and security they need to grow in faith and grace, shielding and protecting them from abuses and violations of their rights. Help us to see the face of Christ in every child and to recognize their divine potential. Bless our efforts to support and mentor the young, ensuring their well-being and spiritual growth. We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen.

Shalom!
Fr. Chinaka Justin Mbaeri, OSJ
Paroquia Nossa Senhora de Loreto, São Paulo, Brazil
nozickcjoe@gmail.com / fadacjay@gmail.com
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PS: Have you prayed your Rosary today?