Novena For Support Of Pope Benedict XVI Day 3

I was surprised to hear not just about the Pope's retirement, but also about his health. 

 

Many people praying with us today are also struggling with health issues. While illness and aging are difficult and painful, they can also be opportunities to embrace the cross and grow closer to Jesus.

 

As the Pope retires, he is going to devote himself to a life of prayer and I expect he will be using his weakness to embrace the cross. Let's take his lead and devote ourselves to prayer when we struggle. 

 

Here are the novena prayers for today:

 

Day 3 - Novena Prayers for Pope Benedict

 

Dear Lord, Your servant Benedict has given his life for the Church and for You. As he now steps down from leadership, please protect his health as he grows older so that he can continue to serve You in prayer.

 

[Insert your intentions and personal petitions for the Pope here]

 

Prayer for the Pope:

 

Let us pray for Benedict, the Pope.

May the Lord preserve him,

give him a long life,

make him blessed upon the earth,

and not hand him over

to the power of his enemies.

May Your hand be upon Your holy servant.

And upon Your son, whom You have anointed.

 

Closing: The Prayer of St. Benedict

 

Gracious and holy Father,

please give to our Pope and 

to us the faithful:

intellect to understand You;

reason to discern You;

diligence to seek You;

wisdom to find You;

a spirit to know You;

a heart to meditate upon You;

ears to hear You;

eyes to see You;

a tongue to proclaim You;

a way of life pleasing to You;

patience to wait for You;

and perseverance to look for You.

 

Grant Your servant the 

Pope and us the faithful:

a perfect end,

Your holy presence.

A blessed resurrection,

And life everlasting.

 

Our Father...

Hail Mary...

Glory Be...

 

Amen.