Faith & Prayer
This month of April in the Catholic Church is dedicated to the Holy Spirit:
Breathe in me, O Holy Spirit, that my thoughts may all be holy.
Act in me, O Holy Spirit, that my work, too, may be holy.
Draw my heart, O Holy Spirit, that I love but what is holy.
Strengthen me, O Holy Spirit, to defend all that is holy.
Guard me, then, O Holy Spirit, that I always may be holy.
Amen. (St. Augustine)
Pope Leo’s intention for April:
For priests in crisis:
Let us pray for priests going through moments of crisis in their vocation, that they may find the accompaniment they need and that communities may support them with understanding and prayer.
LET US REFLECT ON THE MAGESTERIUM OF THE CHURCH TO HELP US ENTER THE EUCHARIST!
Therefore, the study of Sacred Scripture must be like the soul of theology.” This expression from the Dogmatic Constitution *Dei Verbum* has become increasingly familiar in recent years. We can say that in the era following the Second Vatican Council—with regard to theological and exegetical studies—frequent reference has been made to this expression as a symbol of a renewed interest in Sacred Scripture. The Twelfth Assembly of the Synod of Bishops, too, has frequently appealed to this well-known affirmation to indicate the relationship between historical research and the hermeneutics of faith, with reference to the sacred text. From this perspective, the Fathers have joyfully acknowledged the growth of the study of the Word of God within the Church over the last few decades, and have expressed profound gratitude to the numerous exegetes and theologians who, through their dedication, commitment, and expertise, have contributed essentially—and continue to contribute—to a deeper understanding of the meaning of the Scriptures, while addressing the complex issues that biblical research faces in our day. They have also expressed sincere gratitude to the members of the Pontifical Biblical Commission who, in close collaboration with the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith, have offered—and continue to offer—their expert contribution over these years in addressing questions inherent to the study of Sacred Scripture. Furthermore, the Synod felt the need to inquire into the current state of biblical studies and their importance within the theological sphere. Indeed, the pastoral effectiveness of the Church’s mission and of the spiritual life of the faithful depends largely on the fruitful relationship between exegesis and theology. For this reason, I consider it important to revisit certain reflections that emerged during the discussions on this topic held during the work of the Synod.
Verbum Domini: Apostolic Exhortation : 31
PRAYER FOR THE SPREAD OF PERPETUAL ADORATION
Heavenly Father, increase our faith in the Real Presence of Your Son Jesus Christ in the Holy Eucharist.
We are obliged to adore Him, to give Him thanks and to make reparation for sins.
We need your peace in our hearts and among nations.
We need conversion from our sins and the mercy of Your forgiveness.
May we obtain this through prayer and our union with the Eucharistic Lord.
Please send down the Holy Spirit upon all peoples to give them the love, courage, strength and willingness to respond to the invitation to Eucharistic Adoration.
We beseech You to spread Perpetual Adoration of the Most Blessed Sacrament in parishes around the world.
We ask this in the name of Jesus the Lord. Amen
Our Lady of the Most Blessed Sacrament
Help us to spread the glory of Your Son through Perpetual Adoration.
Amen
St. Michael the Archangel,
defend us in battle.
Be our defense against the wickedness
and snares of the Devil.
May God rebuke him, we humbly pray,
and do thou, O Prince of the heavenly hosts,
by the power of God, thrust into hell Satan,
and all the evil spirits,
who prowl about the world seeking the ruin of souls. Amen
