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JMV BOOK OF PRAYERS VINCENTIAN MARIAN YOUTH

MEETING

YOU IN

PRAYER,

LORD

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For the formulation of this Book of Prayers, we thank the collaboration of Fr. Vicente de Dios, CM, Fr. Martin Burguete, CM, Edurne Urdampilleta, Gloria Santillan, the members of the JMV International Council and Secretariat and all those who offered their valuable assistance. Many thanks. PUBLISHED AND DISTRIBUTED BY: Secretariado Internacional Juventud Mariana Vicentiana C/ José Abascal, nº 30 28003 Madrid, Spain Telephone: (34) 91 5912164 Fax: 91 4483189 E-mail: secinterjmv@telefonica.net / jmvinter@telefonica.net

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• FDEZ. MÁRQUEZ

Manuel J., VIDA Y CONTEMPLACIÓN, Ediciones San Pablo, 1988

• SESBOÜÉ Bernard, CREER (invitación a la fe católica para las mujeres y los hombres del siglo XXI), San Pablo, 2000

• GIBSON Audrey and Kneaves Kieran, PRAYING WITH LOUISE DE MARILLAC, Saint Mary's Press, 1995

• ALDERMAN Margaret and BURNS Josephine, PRAYING WITH ELIZABETH SETON, Saint Mary’s Press, 1992

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PART VI: BIBLIOGRAPHY

• SÉRIE HORS, Rayons, EL MENSAJE DE CATALINA LABOURÉ: UNA DINÁMICA DE VIDA, Graphic Express, París, 1992

• Cogregación de la Misión, ORAR EN NUESTRAS COMUNIDADES, TOMO 2, CEME

• DE DIOS Vicente, C.M., LA MEDALLA MILAGROSA: DOCTRINA Y CELEBRACIÓN, CEME, Salamanca, 1986

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PRESENTATION Dear friends: The General Assembly of Rome 2000 explicitly asked that “the International Secretariat, in collaboration with the International Council, will compile a book o f p r aye r s f o r the Association, which will help us preserve the spirit of common prayer and so reinforce our sense of belonging to the Association. All countries will be asked to contribute their own prayer materials for this project.” (Final Document, 1.2) You hold in your hands today this dream come true.

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We have tried to gather in this book the principal prayers with which we identify ourselves and which highlight our characteristics as Vincentian Marian Youth. Certainly, the National Councils are free to use and enrich it in the manner they deem convenient. Through this book, it is our hope that: We support each other daily through prayer, Our prayer become beautiful for God and attractive to young people, and We will make prayer an integral part of our encounters for catechism,

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illusions of sanctity. Action, separated from prayer, can become superficial. It can take a compulsive character. It can become an intoxifying addiction. Spirituality is at its best when there is a mutual and vital balance between prayer and action. Genuine spirituality transforms our humanity. We become more pleasant, more attentive to others. It stirs our desire “ to serve and not to be served” (Mk. 10: 45) and, brings about the conviction that is more joyful to give than to receive (Acts 20:35). We are driven to be missionaries. In prayer, we listen as God calls us to be of service to others, sharing the good news with them “in deed and in word,” as St. Vincent liked to say. As I end this book, I pray that all of us who make use of it will make prayer a permanent part of our lives so that we can move forward day by day, filled with the spirit of the Lord, willing to serve and be His missionaries in the world.

Robert P. Maloney, CM

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EPILOGUE

The gospels describe Mary’s spirituality in a simple way: She heard the word of God and she put it into action (Lk. 8:19-21) St. Vincent reminded his followers that Mary “better than any

believer” understood the meaning of the gospel and she put it into action. (SV. XII, 129 / ES XI, 428). The bond between prayer and action is one of the most important keys for a healthy spirituality. St. Vincent was deeply convinced that in order to live in a balanced way, prayer and action must breathe in unison, just like our two lungs. Prayer separated from action can be a form of escapism. It can be diluted in fantasy, it can create

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format ion, apostolate , service and evangelization, so that we take it up naturally and spontaneously in our daily life. May the Virgin of the Miraculous Medal, teacher of prayer for JMV, maternally motivate our prayer life and that of our respective groups so that, like St. Vincent, we b e c o m e a u t h e n t i c contemplatives in action. JMV INTERNATIONAL COUNCIL

October 2002

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INDEX INTRODUCTION JMV PRAYERS • Prayer to the Holy Spirit

• Marian Prayers • The Rosary • JMV Marian

Consecration • Vincentian Prayers

PRAYER THEMES • Practical

recommendations on developing a life of prayer:

• Jesus, teach us to pray

• Abandoning oneself into the hands of God

CELEBRATION GUIDES • Marian • Vincentian • Rue du Bac

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14

15 16 24 38

40

46

47

49

52

53 59 68

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Body: Christians are united with Christ, the Head, through His body, and each one carries out the function granted to him/her by the Spirit in favor of others. Thus, they have the same unity as with the human body when they carry out their different functions harmoniously with the other parts of the human body (1Co.12: 14-26). Symbols: All prayers have a symbolic dimension since man senses God and enters in contact with Him by means of symbols.

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To deepen in the Word: God is revealed in my neighbors. Therefore, I must also love them with all my heart, with all my soul, with all my strength and with all my mind. Being sent: "Go, and do the same yourself." You are also sent by St. Vincent de Paul: "I have been sent not only to love God but also to make men love Him.” Glossary of Terms Praise: Praise fills the entire human being. To praise God does not mean limiting it to an occasional act but it should be our lifetime occupation. It has to be the profession of man during his journey on earth. Thanksgiving: Thanksgiving is the echo of God, the external manifestation of what is experienced in the soul.

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CELEBRATIONS • Ecclesial Note : The

Church, body of Christ

• Missionary Note : Witnesses of the Gospel

• Marian Note : Mary of Nazareth, active listener of the Word

• Vincentian Note : St. Vincent, Man of Christ and of the Poor

EPILOGUE

BIBLIOGRAPHY

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PART ONE: Introduction

To pray is one of the most beautiful and profound activities that man can do. By means of its continued practice one can reach such depth and inner renewal that in it and through it, man himself becomes the “work” of God. For a Christian, Jesus Christ is the authentic model and teacher of prayer. Mary was also a woman of prayer: “His mother stored up all these things in her heart” (Lk. 2:51). St. Vincent de Paul was convinced of the value of prayer. “Give me a man of prayer and he shall be capable of everything.” (Coste XI,83; CEME XI, 778)

To pray is to live; it is not to

imagine nor to dream but to get out of the “dream” in which we live. To pray is to awaken; it is a constant dawning… a continuous awakening from life, in life and for life. The other kind of prayer, that which takes away and shuns life, that which pretends and dulls the senses, that which is a refuge and fleeing away… is not

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which worried him a bit. Jesus tells him a story so that he might set out for a new way. This message led St. Vincent to the world of the poor. I have felt your call, Lord, to meditate on your words "Go and do the same yourself." We respond to the Word with Prayer: "Go and do the same yourself." The Word of the Lord asks for a response. Here I am Lord, I am ready to follow the way of the good Samaritan. I recognize you in the good Samaritan, in each of his healing and welcoming gestures. Like Vincent de Paul, make me live this parable in my life.

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Gathered together in the name of the Lord: We pray the way the first Christians taught us. “Direct our eyes towards you, Lord. Grant your pardon and mercy to all of us gathered here. Have pity on us and grant us the grace to be good, wise and pure. Send us your power so that your people may be known as holy and immaculate.” (Prayer of the first Christians) We begin our prayer: Jesus spoke during His time and continues to do so now. His words have not lost their strength or meaning. Praise and give thanks to God because He reveals himself to men. Who can doubt that the Word of God penetrated into the depths of St. Vincent's heart? Word of God: Lk. 10: 25-37: Let us take some moments of silence as we prepare to listen to the Word of God. Personal reading and meditation of the Word proclaimed: Focus your attention on each of the characters of the parable. The lawyer receives at the end of the parable, the command: "Go, and do the same yourself." This lawyer did not seem to have any problem in matters relating to God. But here comes the part

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prayer. Neither is prayer “thinking” much about God, because going through things a thousand times in the head is not enough in a personal relationship. To pray is to enter into a dialogue with God from the depth of our hearts. As God gradually reveals Himself to us, prayer comes spontaneously, like a mutual call, a dialogue wherein God calls and seeks man out (“Where are you?… Gen. 3:9-13) and man responds (“Here I am, I come to do your will…“ Heb. 10:5-7) Thus, St. Therese of the Child Jesus says that prayer is “an intimate sharing between friends, taking time frequently to be alone with the One who loves us”. The one who discovers God, who discovers Christ, becomes a “lover”. And the one who loves tunes in, seeks the presence, the dialogue…

We need to live prayer; or if you prefer, the encounter with God. It’s one thing to think about trekking the mountain and another to really climb it. We are nourished when we eat. It is not enough to only read the menu in a restaurant; in the same manner, it is only when we drink that our thirst is quenched, not by recalling the

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fountain. We learn to walk by walking and to pray by praying.

Man´s heart, struck by infinite

love, seeks with insatiable longing the loving encounter with his God. He ardently wishes to be with the Lord of his life, to fill his life with the shining and radiant presence of God. He feels like a ray of light which only finds itself when in permanent contact and union with the sun. How can we exist without Him? Be in communication and loving communion with God.

In prayer we go to be with the

Lord in a loving presence. “To be” simply and clearly is an attitude quite costly for us who value so much our actions and our work and who measure our being and persons by our performance and efficiency.

Thus, before the “doing” of

prayer, we must know how “to be”, valuing our capacity of being conscientiously present here and now, in an attitude of active passivity. At times, in praying, we value very much what we say to the Lord, what we think, what we analyze or do, the

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Vincentian Note : ST. VINCENT, MAN OF CHRIST AND OF THE

POOR Orientation: The Gospel is a Good news, a message of liberation, of light and of love. It speaks of love, especially for those who are oppressed, for sinners and for the sick. Let us also contemplate and welcome this Good News of liberation, light and charity. "It is not enough to love God if my neighbor does not love Him”. If we want to be with Christ, like St. Vincent de Paul, we have to have a more open heart. Being open universally means that we accept spreading the Gospel to more and more places and people.

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Blessing: Lord, may my whole being overflow with blessings and praises. May your praise be always in my mouth. Amen.

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resolutions we make… so much so that we sometimes forget Him and continue to be engrossed in our own selves, in our problems and thoughts. Jesus says: “In your prayers do not babble much... because your Father knows what you need before you ask him.” (Mt. 6: 7-8)

Through this booklet, we invite

you then to simply practice “being” in prayer, to simply focus into the depth of your being in an attitude of silence and warmth. Silence enables us to live our own selves and, at the same time, opens within us the possibility of welcoming and receiving the presence of God, His revelation and intimate communion with the soul. What little capacity do we actually have of simply being silent, welcoming and being receptive before the presence of the loving God! “Speak, Lord, for your servant is listening.” (1 S 3:10)

All profound encounters

between people lead to an authentic manifestation and revelation of the intimacy of persons. This communication of intimacy brings about true friendship. A revelation of

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intimacy will be difficult to achieve if one does not encounter a silent, attentive and receptive heart on whom to share intimacy. Thus, we have to put into place conditions so that this encounter will come about and carefully begin this delicate task.

SOME MEANS:

Once we are clear on the primary element – our disposition – let us move on to talk of some means. Since we are young people in the process of learning, there are times when it is necessary for us to place some means that can help us in the encounter and will focus our attention to the living presence.

It may help to have an image or icon, a candle, the Bible, a chosen passage... or it would also be good to repeat a word, phrase or a short prayer slowly and to the rhythm of our breathing.

Sometimes, it may be a feeling, a gesture or a song…

Or at times, it will be an idea or reflection…

It can also be perhaps an encounter with the poor or an event...

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Thanksgiving: “It is right and necessary to give thanks to you, Lord, Holy Father, all-powerful and ever-living God, through Christ our Lord. Because the Virgin believed the message of the angel: that Christ, by the working of the Holy Spirit, would be born to save mankind” (Preface of the Blessed Virgin Mary, Disciple of the Word Incarnate). Symbolic language: The Miraculous Medal shows to us the heart of Mary at the foot of the cross, in an attitude of acceptance, meditation and living out the obedience of faith. What the heart of Mary at the cross suggests to us here is the attitude that she always had of welcoming the will of the Father and of meditating the Word of God in her heart. Being sent: Mary, disciple of Christ, intercedes for us before the Lord so that we will live our apostolate following the way of the Gospel. Filled with the light of the Holy Spirit, she asks that we, who are sent into the world, be the “light of the people”.

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Mary feels confused with the greeting. The words are simply too deep for a young woman with a simple heart. But the angel confirms the truthfulness of the greeting and clears the confusion. The dialogue highlights the simplicity of this young woman as well as her reasoning ability: "How can this be?" Listen attentively to the Word - this is the most important and most definite thing to do: "Let it be done to me according to your Word." The explanation of this passage raises new responses and questions: Praise: “Blessed are you, Mary, who upon receiving the message of the angel, have become the Mother of the Word of God. Blessed are you, who meditating in silence the words from heaven, have become a disciple of the Lord“ (Marian Antiphon).

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And for those who have already begun this process, silence itself .

But it is important to always remember that we should not stick to these means as if they were the only ones.

Let us not forget that they are simply “bridges” that aid and facilitate the personal, intimate and loving encounter with God.

To help you in this encounter with the Lord, we suggest some ways to aid your personal prayer or community celebration. These proposed prayers and guides are inspired by the Marian and Vincentian spirituality of our Association, which will surely help awaken in you a prayerful attitude. May the Blessed Virgin Mary, who became the model of the imploring Church when she joined in prayer with the disciples at the coming of the Holy Spirit at Pentecost, obtain for us, JMV members of the world, the gift of constant prayer and silence and make us capable of giving ourselves deeply to the service of the poor and other young people.

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PART TWO:

JMV PRAYERS

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We respond to the Word with Prayer: Prayer is now the response that the Word of the Lord stirs up within us. When we read the Scriptures, we listen to God, and when we pray, we respond to Him. Therefore, prayer is absolutely necessary so that there will be a dialogue between the believer and God. The Word of God is always asking for our response. To deepen in the Word: Explanation of the passage: Luke shares to us here the most marvelous encounter that we can imagine between God and any human being. After a good reflection, only Mary would be the appropriate person to transmit something of what really happened. The feelings, attitudes and reactions of Mary are reflected in verses 29, 34 and 38. “She was deeply disturbed by these words and asked herself what this greeting could mean.” (v.29) Mary said to the angel, “But how can this come about, since I have no knowledge of man?” (v.34) Mary said, “ You see before you the Lord’s servant, let it happen to me as you have said” (V.38).

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presence of the Lord in Mary, may we too recognize here and now within ourselves the tabernacle of the Lord. We begin our prayer: We use the sign of the cross. With such, we indicate that we are united in prayer in the name of the Father, of the Son and of the Holy Spirit. We pray to receive the Word: Grant us, Lord, the grace to understand your Word and perceive it as light that radiates the mystery of Mary. We entrust to you, Mary, our prayers and requests for JMV in the whole world. We pray, looking up to you, our Mediatrix. Word of God: Lk. 1: 26-38: Let us take some moments of silence as we prepare to listen to the Word of God: let us ask for “a disciple’s listening ear”. Personal reading and meditation of the Word proclaimed: Try to repeat the Gospel passage slowly, committing it to memory and keeping it in your heart.

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PRAYER TO THE HOLY SPIRIT Come, Holy Spirit, and from heaven direct on man the rays of Your light. Come Father of the poor; Come, Giver of God's gifts; Come, Light of men's hearts. Kind Paraclete, in Your gracious visits to man's soul You bring relief and consolation. If it is weary with toil, You bring it ease; in the heat of temptation, Your grace cools it; if sorrowful, Your words console it. Light most blest, shine on the hearts of Your faithful - even into their darkest corners; for without Your aid man can do nothing good, and everything is sinful. Wash clean the sinful soul, rain down Your grace on the parched soul and heal the injured soul. Soften the hard heart, cherish and warm the ice-cold heart, and give direction to the wayward. Give Your seven holy gifts to Your faithful, for their trust is in You. Give them reward for their virtuous acts; give them a death that ensures salvation; give them unending bliss. Amen.

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MARIAN

PRAYERS

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Marian Note: MARY OF NAZARETH, ACTIVE LISTENER OF THE WORD Orientation: The Word of God is in the heart of every believer (Rom. 10:8). His/her whole life c a n n ow b e transformed into “salt of the earth” and “light of the world.” Jesus’ words then can be fulfilled: “Your light must shine in people’s sight, so that, seeing your good works, they may give praise to your Father in heaven.” (Mt. 5:16) The attitude of Mary before the Word is the most appropriate one. She is the true listener who knew how to listen and receive the Word simply and fully. Let us discover our own condition as we listen and pray here and now. Gathered together in the name of the Lord: The Lord is with us. We are very familiar with the liturgical greeting: “The Lord be with you.” With this, we affirm the presence among us of him who “lives forever and ever.” In the same way that the Angel recognizes the

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Sweet Refreshment, Father of the poor… Define your mission as that of Christ’s: proclaim the Good News to the poor, driven by the Spirit, Father of the poor. Blessing: Lord, may your divine spirit make us servants of others. May it give us wisdom to receive your word, put it to practice and proclaim it. Oh God, bless each one of us by showering upon us the “fruit” of the spirit: Love, kindness…

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Praying with Mary... Praying for Mary meant acknowledging in her the work of God and accepting herself as established in His work. To pray entails discovering God as “my God.” He who loves and singles me out even if neither reason nor basis exists for Him to do so. Prayer for Mary is a dialogue with God the Father. It is a dialogue of seeking in the faith.

"Oh Mary conceived without sin, pray for us who have recourse to you.”

MAGNIFICAT My soul proclaims the greatness of the Lord, my spirit rejoices in God, my Savior for he has looked with favor on his lowly servant. From this day all generations will call me blessed: the Almighty has done great things for me, and holy is his Name. He has mercy on those who fear him in every generation. He has shown the strength of his arm, he has scattered the proud in their conceit. He has cast down the mighty from their thrones, and has lifted up the lowly. He has filled the hungry with good things, and the rich he has sent away empty. He has come to the help of his servant Israel for he has remembered his promise of mercy, the promise he made to our fathers, to Abraham and his children for ever.

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WE FLY TO YOUR PATRONAGE We fly to your patronage, O Holy Mother of God. Despise not our petitions in our necessities but deliver us always from all dangers, O glorious and blessed Virgin.

HAIL HOLY QUEEN Hail Holy Queen, Mother of Mercy, Hail, our life, our sweetness and our hope! To you do we cry poor banished children of Eve! To you do we send up our sighs, mourning and weeping in this valley of tears! Turn then, most gracious advocate, your eyes of mercy towards us; and after this, our exile, show unto us the blessed fruit of your womb, Jesus! O clement, O loving, O sweet Virgin Mary! AVE REGINA Hail, Queen of heaven; Hail, Lady of Angels; Hail, root of Jesus; Hail, the gate through which the Light rose over the earth. Rejoice, O glorious Virgin, lovely beyond all others Hail, most beautiful maiden and pray for us to Christ.

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We pray to receive the Word: The Church in the cenacle only asked for one thing: the Spirit. Let us ask for the Spirit as the gift that contains all other gifts, in particular, the gift of prayer. The Apostle reminds us: “you received the Spirit of adoption, enabling us to cry out, ‘Abba, Father!’” (Rom. 8:15) Word of God: Acts 2:1-13: Let us take some moments of silence as we prepare to listen to the Word of God. Personal reading and meditation of the Word proclaimed: Read, listen, feel it burn in our hearts. We speak of your Word, Lord, “and all about this new life.” (Acts 5:20) We respond to the Word with Prayer: You entrust us, Lord to give testimony to the Gospel, to be witnesses and servants of the Word. Fill us with your Spirit and may your Spirit really play the leading role in the mission. (Silent prayer) Symbolic language: In the absence of its own face, the Spirit has been portrayed in different ways. Let us see how sacred scriptures and the Holy Fathers describe their appreciation for Him: Spirit Creator, Spirit of the Father, Paraclete, Comforter, Spirit of Truth, Gift of God, Blessed Light, Spirit of Life, Fire, Love, Finger of God,

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Missionary Note : WITNESSES OF THE GOSPEL

Orientation: Reading the second chapter of the book of the Acts of the Apostles we discover that the effect of the descent of the Holy Spirit on the Pentecost is the preaching of the Gospel. This resulted to a massive conversion to those who listened. With the descent of the Holy Spirit and this first preaching, the words of Jesus begins to be fulfilled: “Receive the power of the Holy Spirit which will come on you, and then you will be my witnesses not only in Jerusalem but throughout Judea and Samaria, and indeed to earth’s remotest end.” (Acts 1:8) Gathered together in the name of the Lord: Give us your Spirit, Lord, so that your presence fills our hearts. Bring us together in unity. Keep us all in communion of faith and mutual love.

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REGINA CAELI P: Queen of heaven, rejoice, alleluia. A: The Son whom it was your privilege to

bear, alleluia P: Has risen as he said, alleluia. A: Pray to God for us, alleluia. P: Rejoice and be glad, O Virgin Mary,

alleluia. A: For the Lord has truly risen, alleluia ´

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ANGELUS P. The angel of the Lord declared unto

Mary; A: And she conceived of the Holy Spirit.

(Hail Mary...) P: Behold the handmaid of the Lord; A: Be it done unto me according to your

word. (Hail Mary...)

P: And the Word was made flesh; A: And dwelt among us.

(Hail Mary...) P: Pray for us, O holy Mother of God. A: That we may be worthy of the promises

of Christ. Let us pray:

Pour forth, we beseech you, O Lord, your grace into our hearts, that we, to whom the incarnation of Christ, your Son, was made known by the message of an angel, may by his passion and cross be brought to the glory of his resurrection, through the same Christ our Lord. Amen.

MEMORARE (From the Novena of Our Lady of the Miraculous Medal) Remember, O most compassionate Virgin Mary That never was it known that anyone who fled to your protection, implored your help or sought your intercession was left unaided. Inspired with this confidence we fly unto you, O Virgin of virgins, our Mother.

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Symbolic language: Twelve stars are engraved on the face of the Medal. It is certainly a reference to the Lady in the Book of Revelations, who appears robed with the sun and with a crown of twelve stars. But the twelve stars could also mean the communion of the Church, established on the foundation of the twelve. Being sent: To become a disciple of a master means acknowledging the authority of another in your life. To become a disciple of Christ entails a radical self-giving, sacrificing one’s life to God. This is how availability begins and grows. As members of the Church, in its capacity as the “body of Christ”, we who are sent acquire an obligation: to be holy and faultless always so that the full body of Christ be wholly and clearly seen (Cf. Ep. 5:27.) “Each one must be careful how he does the building.” (1 Co. 3:10) Blessing: Fill my mouth with your praises, Lord, and my lips with joy: that we may sing your glory and your power. We bless you, our Savior, Lord of heaven and earth for the abundance of your grace. Fill your Church with your glory so that we may praise you for ages without end.

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To thee we come, before you we stand, sinful and sorrowful. O Mother of the Word Incarnate, Despise not our petitions But in your mercy hear and answer us. Amen. PRAYER OF JOHN PAUL II IN THE CHAPEL

OF THE RUE DU BAC O Mary, conceived without sin, pray for us who have recourse to you. O Mary, this was the prayer that you gave to Saint Catherine Labouré in the Chapel of the Apparitions, more than one hundred and fifty years ago. This invocation, engraved on the Miraculous Medal, is now worn and repeated by the faithful throughout the world. Blessed are you among women! You are intimately associated with the work of our Redemption, associated with the Cross of our Savior, your heart has been pierced, next to his heart. And now, in the glory of your Son, you never cease to intercede for us, poor sinners. You watch over the Church for you are its Mother. You watch over each of your Children. From God, you obtain for us, all the graces that are symbolized by the rays of light which radiate from your open hands, and the only condition that you demand of us is that we approach with the confidence, the hardiness, and the simplicity of a child. And it is thus that you bring us before your Divine Son.

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O MARY, BRIGHT DAWN OF THE NEW WORLD O Mary, bright dawn of the new world, Mother of the living, to you do we entrust the cause of life: Look down, O Mother, upon the vast numbers of babies not allowed to be born, of the poor whose lives are made difficult, of men and women who are victims of brutal violence, of the elderly and the sick killed by indifference or out of misguided mercy. Grant that all who believe in your Son may proclaim the Gospel of life with honesty and love to the people of our time. Obtain for them the grace to accept that Gospel as a gift ever new, the joy of celebrating it with gratitude throughout their lives and the courage to bear witness to it resolutely, in order to build, together with all people of good will, the civilization of truth and love, to the praise and glory of God, the Creator and lover of life. [Source: Pope John-Paul II, March 25, 1995]

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We respond to the Word with prayer: The Word of God has been constituted in Jesus who is among us. He prays for all those gathered here and who are united with Him. If the passage is a letter, then we need to read it. Nevertheless, that is not enough. The letter is the Word of God. Thus, I want to pray it with my brothers and sisters. To deepen in the Word: Explanation of the passage: The body is structured in such a way that different parts carry out specific functions. We, Christians, also constitute one body. No one represents the entire body; but nobody is an extra. Therefore, our Christian existence cannot be limited to our private inner life. Praise and thanksgiving: “Lord, we give you thanks and praise. We bless you because you not only manifested yourself in the richness and potential of your life and death but you continue to show yourself to us through the mystery of your Church. You live Her, Lord, through Her, you spread your Spirit, in Her you cure and alleviate the sufferings of your people. In Her and through Her, you create a visible body that is a light for history, a sign and instrument of unity for mankind”. (Cardinal Martin)

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We begin our prayer: Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit. Let creation, magnificent in its splendor, never be silent neither by day nor by night. Let the bright stars, the tallest mountains and the deepest seas shout their praises to God while we sing our hymns: to the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit (Prayers of the first Christians). We pray to receive the Word: Grant us, Lord, the grace to contemplate you as the Lord and Master of each one of us, of your Church, as we grow and are shaped by your spirit. Prepare our hearts to listen to the words of life which come from your lips. Word of God: Rom. 12:3-8: Let us take some moments of silence as we prepare to listen to the Word of God. Personal reading and meditation of the Word proclaimed: Meditate on the Word of God and apply it to your life. “You are all one in Christ Jesus.” (Gal 3:28.) Spirit of the Lord, may your holy words fill and nourish the hearts of the believers who are gathered in your name.

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ALMA REDEMPTORIS MATER Loving mother of the Redeemer, gate of heaven, star of the sea, assist your people who have fallen yet strive to rise again. To the wonderment of nature you bore your Creator, yet remained a virgin after as before. You who received Gabriel's joyful greeting, have pity on us poor sinners.

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THE ROSARY

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Ecclesial Note: THE CHURCH, THE BODY OF CHRIST

Orientation: The expression “Body of Christ” is very familiar to Catholics. The Church is seen not only externally as a structured corporation or organization divided according to dignitaries and jurisdictions but also internally as a mystery founded by Christ. For many, this brings them to discover a new ecclesial dimension. Paul finds that image and applies it to the Christian community. What is important is the unity of the community and of feelings. “As it is, the parts are many, but the body is one.” (1 Cor. 12:20) Gathered together in the name of the Lord: The communities that meet in private homes know that they constitute the Church, a Greek term which means “those who are called together.” We pray as a Church; prayer gathers together the members of the Church. St. Cyprian points out that the Christian, wherever he is, always prays in plurality. He prays as member of a community, incorporated through baptism in the Body of Christ.

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PART IV:

CELEBRATIONS

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The Joyful Mysteries (Mondays and Saturdays) The Annunciation The Angel Gabriel said to Mary, “Rejoice, you who enjoy God’s favor!... you are to conceive in your womb and bear a son, and you must name him Jesus.” (Lk. 1:28-31) Then Mary said, “You see before you the Lord’s servant, let it happen to me as you have said.” (Lk. 1:38) Humility: Jesus exclaimed, “I bless you, Father, Lord of heaven and of earth, for hiding these things from the learned and the clever and revealing them to little children.” (Mt. 11:25) The Visitation Mary went as quickly as she could to the house of her cousin Elizabeth. Now it happened that as soon as Elizabeth heard Mary’s greeting, she was filled with the Holy Spirit and giving a loud cry said, “Of all women you are the most blessed!” (Lk.1:42) Then, Mary said, “My soul proclaims the greatness of the Lord.…for the Almighty has done great things for me.” (Lk. 1:46-49) Service and mission: The Son of Man came not to be served but to serve and to give his life. (Mt. 20:28)

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The Birth of the Lord The angel said to them, “Today in the town of David a Saviour has been born to you.” (Lk. 2:11) So they hurried away and found Mary and Joseph and the baby lying in the manger. (Lk. 2:16) As for Mary, she treasured all these things and pondered them in her heart. (Lk. 2:19) Love for the poor: For He rescues the needy who calls to him, and the poor who has no one to help. He has pity on the weak and the needy, and saves the needy from death. (Ps. 72:12-13) The Presentation of Jesus in the Temple Prompted by the Spirit, Simeon came to the Temple; and when the parents brought in the Child Jesus…. he took him into his arms and blessed God saying, “My eyes have seen the salvation…. a light of revelation for the people” (Lk. 2: 27-32) Simeon blessed them and said to Mary his mother, “He is destined to be a sign that is opposed - and a sword will pierce your soul too.” (Lk. 2:34-35) Obedience: Jesus was humbler yet, even to accepting death, death on a cross. (Ph. 2:8)

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Bible Reading: Mk. 16:15 Text from the message at Rue du Bac: "I heard a voice telling me: Have a medal struck according to this design. The persons who wear it wil receive great graces...especially if they wear it with confidence.” Points for reflection: • Wearing a medal. In these days of tattoos,

amulets and symbols of supernatural powers, it is important to shed light on the meaning of the medal. It is not a magical amulet that drives away evil spirits but a sign of God’s tender love and care. It is a TANGIBLE SYNTHESIS OF THE GOSPEL.

• When we wear the medal we must be willing to be witnesses and missionaries of the truths it bears and make of them the foundation of our life. The medal is a mission. The medal is a gift from God. We have to wear it with joy as as sign of his mission: to proclaim God’s tender love and care.

Questions: • We can say that the medal is our

missionary ID in the world... How do we carry out our mission with the medal?

• To what do I commit myself when I wear the medal?

Closing Prayer: The medal reminds us of the Good News of the Gospel that we must bring to the world, preaching and building the Kingdom of God. Lord, I want to continue your work and be your companion in the mission.

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We run to her and she listens. She hears and understands all that our young hearts do not know how to express and she leads us to her Son: “Do whatever He tells you.”

• Reverse side of the Medal: This is a gift of love. Jesus and Mary represent love in the midst of men and are love for men. In spite of our infidelities and betrayals, the hearts of Mary and Jesus are always there - they never get tired of loving us. They are united to ensure joy in our life. A person’s worth is not measured by the clothes he/she wears, by their diplomas or how thick his/her wallet is: it is measured by the ability to love. Without love nothing is of value.

Questions: • Marian Youth, do you wear your medal

proudly? Or do you hide it? What does it signify to you?

• What does “to serve with love” mean for us? Do we live our commitment with enthusiasm?

Closing Prayer: Lord, you come to me, you look into my eyes and you tell me you love me… I feel your love, I wish to savor it and let myself be swept by it. This love moves me to transmit it to others. Lead me and help me in this task.

“Our Driving Force” Theme: The Medal, a sign of love Introduction: Mary wants to leave a remembrance of her message. This message is not only for Catherine but for everyone. The medal is the sign that will help us bring the message of Jesus and Mary very far.

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The Finding of Jesus in the Temple It happened that, three days later, they found him in the Temple. His mother said to him, “My child, why have you done this to us?” Then, he replied, “ Why were you looking for me? Did you not know that I must be in my Father’s house?” He went down with them then and came to Nazareth and lived under their authority. (Lk. 2: 46-49, 51) Everything has been entrusted to me by my Father; and no one knows who the Son is except the Father, and who the Father is except the Son and those to whom the Son chooses to reveal him. (Lk. 10:22) Availability for the Kingdom: Jesus said, “No one who prefers father or mother to me is worthy of me.” (Mt. 10:37)

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T h e S o r r o w f u l Mysteries (Tuesdays and Fridays) The Agony in the Garden Jesus prayed, “Father, if you are willing, take this cup away from me. Nevertheless, let your will be done, not mine.” And his sweat fell to the ground like great drops of blood. (Lk. 22:42-44). Jesus said to his apostles, “Stay awake and pray not to be put to the test. The spirit is willing enough, but human nature is weak.” (Mt. 26: 41) Search for God’s will: Let your will be done on earth as in heaven. ( Mt. 6:10) The Scourging at the Pillar After having Jesus scourged, he handed him over to be crucified. (Mt. 27:26) Whereas he was wounded for our rebellions, crushed because of our guilt. (Is. 53:5) Ill-treated and afflicted, he never opened his mouth, like a lamb led to the slaughterhouse. (Is. 53:7) Purity: Do you not realize that your body is the temple of the Holy Spirit? (1 Cor. 6:19)

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distant from the Church, those who are going through difficult situations and also those who opt to enter into this plan of life. May we be capable of listening to the challenges, longings, dreams and desires of our brothers and sisters with love.

“…A project of love” Theme: The Medal Introduction: With this medal, Mary presents to us the essential Christian message. The reverse side of the medal talks about God’s plan of love for mankind while the front shows Mary as the chosen messenger of God’s tenderness. Bible Reading: 1 Jn. 4:7-16 Text from the message at Rue du Bac: "An oval frame formed around the Blessed Virgin, upon which one could read the following words written in gold letters: Oh Mary conceived without sin, pray for us who have recourse to Thee.” The frame seemed to turn, and on the reverse side, could be seen the letter M surmounted by a cross, and below it the hearts of Jesus and Mary.” Points for reflection: • Front side of the Medal. Mary is seen

standing, like a pilgrim on the way, with her arms stretched out to welcome with kindness in order to make possible a true encounter with the light that shines from her hands - an encounter with God’s love. Mary reveals her identity: She is the Immaculate Conception who is attentive to all our needs. She intercedes to God for us.

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Text from the message at Rue du Bac: "The Blessed Virgin wants you to begin a mission… you will be its founder and director. It is about a Confraternity of the Children of Mary to which the Blessed Virgin will grant abundant graces. Many indulgences will also be granted.” Points for reflection: • Young person, your life is a constant

calling; it yearns for an encounter – you dream and need, sometimes desperately, to meet someone who can understand your struggles, who will listen patiently, who will be attuned with you in such a way that you will be able to say: he/she is my soul mate, my significant other. A genuine encounter requires certain conditions: deep empathy, unlimited trust, ability to listen, truthfulness, loyalty, attention, respect.

• Mary and Catherine talk lengthily without haste. Gazing at each other’s eyes, they discover their secrets and weave together a covenant. They make the encounter possible, one that will never end and leaves a deep mark on Catherine’s life.

Questions: • What is the quality of my encounters in

JMV? What is my contribution? • Am I eager to make other young people

become members of JMV?

Closing Prayer:

Through JMV we are able to reach out to young people who are

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God’s temple is holy and you are that temple. (1 Cor. 3:17) The Crowning with Thorns And having twisted some thorns into a crown they put this on his head and placed a reed in his right hand. To make fun of him, they knelt to him saying, “Hail, king of the Jews.” And they spat on him and took the reed and struck him on the head with it. (Mt. 27:29-30) He had no form or charm to attract us, no beauty to win our hearts; he was despised, the lowest of men, a man of sorrows, familiar with suffering, one from whom, as it were, we averted our gaze, despised, for whom we had no regard. Yet ours were the sufferings he was bearing, ours the sorrows he was carrying. (Is. 53:2b-4) Struggle against pride: God opposes the proud but he accords his favor to the humble. (Jn. 4:6) The Carrying of the Cross They led him out to crucify him. They enlisted a passer-by, Simon of Cyrene, to carry his cross. (Mk. 15:20-21) Large numbers of people followed him, and women too, who mourned and lamented for him. But Jesus turned to them and said, “Daughters of Jerusalem, do not weep for me; weep rather for yourselves and for your children.” (Lk. 23:27-28)

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They repay my kindness with evil, and friendship with hatred. (Ps. 109:5) Patience in trials: The temporary, light burden of our hardships is earning us forever an utterly incomparable, eternal weight of glory since what we aim for is not visible but invisible. Visible things are transitory, but invisible things are eternal. (2 Cor. 4:17-18) The Crucifixion and Death of Jesus When they had finished crucifying him they shared out his clothing by casting lots, and then sat down and stayed there keeping guard over him. (Mt. 27:35-36) Jesus said, “Father forgive them; they do not know what they are doing.” (Lk. 23:34) Jesus said to his mother, “Woman, this is your son,” and to John, “This is your mother.” (Jn. 19:26-27) Generous self-giving: No one can have greater love than to lay down his life for his friends. (Jn. 15:13)

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simply a set of propositions to be accepted with intellectual assent. Rather, faith is a lived knowledge of Christ, a living remembrance of his commandments, and a truth to be lived out. (cf. Veritatis Splendor, 88)

Questions:

• Does our life bring light or gloom to our brothers and sisters? Why?

• Do we let the light fill our hearts? Do we pass it on to others? How?

Closing Prayer:

Lord, like you, may my life be a light that shines on humanity. In our world where many of our contemporaries think and live as if God did not exist, we ask you, Lord, to help reaffirm our faith as a personal decision that commits my whole being. May the gospel be the lamp that guides the decisions and direction of our lives.

“A wish come true” Theme: Mary’s wish – a past and present mission: to found the Association. Introduction: At one time in his/her life, the young person lives a critical phase and this is represented by pressure in the society. It is our obligation to pay attention to their needs as they develop their own identity and philosophy of life. Bible Reading: Mt. 4:18-22

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“Living in the Light” Theme: Drawing near to the Light Introduction: God captivated Mary’s heart with His love thus enabling her to reflect Him wholly. When we draw near to the light, we are enlightened and love is reflected in our lives. Bible Reading: Mt. 5:14-16 Text from the message at Rue du Bac: "These rays of light are the symbols of the graces that the Blessed Virgin obtains for those who them of her.” " Points for reflection: • The light that Jesus refers to in the Gospel

is the light of faith; God’s free gift that comes to enlighten our hearts and minds. “It is God who said, ‘Let light shine out of darkness,’ that has shone into our hearts to enlighten them with the knowledge of God’s glory, the glory of the face of Christ.” (2 Co. 4:6) That’s why the words of Jesus take on a special meaning when he explains his identity and mission: “I am the light of the world, anyone who follows me will not be walking in the dark, but will have the light of life.” (Jn. 8:12)

• A personal encounter with Christ enlightens our life with a new light; it leads us on the right path and commits us to be his witnesses. With the new way of looking at the world and persons that Jesus shows us, we are able to understand deeply the mystery of faith which is not

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The Glorious Mysteries (Wednesdays and Sundays) The Resurrection of Jesus Christ “He has risen, as he said he would!” (Mt. 28:6) He said to them, “See by my hands and my feet that it is I myself. Touch me and see for yourselves; a ghost has no flesh and bones as you can see I have.” (Lk. 24:39) Thomas replied, “My Lord and my God.” (Jn. 20:28) Faith: The Lord said, “If you had faith like a mustard seed you can say to this mulberry tree, ‘Be uprooted and planted in the sea,’ and it would obey you.” (Lk. 17:6) The Ascension of Jesus to Heaven Jesus said to his apostles, “I am with you always; yes, to the end of time.” (Mt. 28:20) Now as he blessed them, he withdrew from them and was carried up to heaven. (Lk. 24:51) The apostles preached everywhere with the Lord working with them. (Mk. 16:20)

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Apostolic commitment: What we are waiting for, relying on his promises, is the new heavens and the new earth, where uprightness will be at home. (2 P. 3:13) The Descent of the Holy Spirit “Receive the power of the Holy Spirit which will come on you, and you will be my witnesses to the earth’s remotest end.” (Acts 1:8) With one heart all of them joined constantly in prayer, together with some women, including Mary the mother of Jesus, and with his brothers. (Acts 1:14) Suddenly, there came from heaven, a sound as of a violent wind which filled the entire house… and there appeared to them tongues as of fire; these separated and came to rest on the head of each of them. They were all filled with the Holy Spirit. (Acts 2: 2-4) Apostolic Zeal: Jesus told them, “Go out to the whole world; proclaim the gospel to all creation.” (Mk. 16:15) The Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary into Heaven How beautiful you are, my beloved, how beautiful you are!” (Sg 4:1) "The Immaculate Mother of God, the ever-virgin Mary, having completed the course of her earthly life, was assumed body and soul into heavenly glory." (Pope Pius XII, Nov. 1, 1950) “From now onwards, all generations will call me blessed.” (Lk. 1:48)

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made the Bread of Life, and brings us to a sacramental encounter with Jesus Christ in the Eucharist– an encounter which renews our ways, where we regain strength, where we rise again, where life is made.

• The Eucharist is a memorial in the

fullest sense. Through it, we are able to understand the “real presence” of Christ in the Eucharist. Bread and wine are fruits of man’s labor. It is the gift of his time and of himself. “ We come to the foot of the altar” when we relive the Eucharistic encounter.

Questions: • What are the things we must set aside

today in order to encounter the Lord and others?

• How do I celebrate and live the Eucharist with all my heart?

Closing Prayer:

Lord, when we receive you in the Eucharist, we accept your love and strength so as to become builders of a new world. Thank you, Lord, for showing us the way to salvation and grant us the grace to continue in it by celebrating the sacraments and proclaiming our faith.

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RUE DU BAC

“Come to Me” Theme: Living the intensity of the Eucharist Introduction: Mary puts us on the way to her Son. She motivates an encounter and communion by proposing a concrete action - “come” - that implies coming out of our homes, of our comfort zones, of our own selves and meet with others in order to go to God. Bible Reading: Mt. 11:28-30 Text from the message at Rue du Bac: "Come to the foot of this altar. There, graces will be poured out on all those, small or great, who ask for them with confidence and fervour. Graces will be poured out especially on those who ask for them.” Points for reflection: • Mary is not a goal, nor the end of the

road, but an indicator who brings us to encounter the God of life present in the Eucharist and in each of our brothers and sisters. She gives us her Son,

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The gift of a joyful encounter with God: Now we see only reflections in a mirror, mere riddles, but then we shall be seeing face to face. Now I can know only imperfectly, but then I shall know just as I am myself known. (1 Cor. 13:12) The Coronation of the Blessed Virgin Mary Now a great sign appeared in heaven: a woman robed with the sun, standing on the moon, and on her head a crown of twelve stars. (Rev. 12:1) “I shall put enmity between you and the woman, and between your offspring and hers; and it will bruise your head and you will strike its heel.” (Gn. 3:15) "Oh Mary conceived without sin, pray for us who have recourse to you.” Perseverance: But anyone who stands firm to the end will be saved. (Mt. 24:13)

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The Mysteries of Light (Thursdays) The Baptism of Jesus Then Jesus appeared: he came from Galilee to the Jordan to be baptized by John. John tried to dissuade him, with the words, “It is I who need baptism from you and yet you

come to me!” (Mt. 3:13-14) While Jesus after his own baptism was at prayer, heaven opened and the Holy Spirit descended on him… and a voice came from heaven, “You are my Son, today have I fathered you.” (Lk. 3:21-22) Naaman, army commander to the king of Aram, was a man who enjoyed his master’s respect and favor…but suffered from a virulent skin disease. Elisha sent him a messenger to say, “Go and bathe seven times in Jordan and your flesh will become clean once more.” So he went down and immersed himself seven times in the Jordan, as Elisha had told him to do. And his flesh became clean once more like the flesh of a little child. (2 K 5:1,10,14) Justice: For Yahweh is upright and loves uprightness, the honest will ever see his face. (Ps. 11:7)

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• Each one, by the working of the Holy Spirit, is called to live in a special manner what the Spirit proposes and gives to him/her alone – the symbolic mediation of giving and receiving.

Questions: • What means do we have for bringing the

good news to the poor? Which ones are we using?

• How can we give closer attention to the new kinds of poverty and to the most marginalized sectors?

Closing Prayer:

Lord, you never forget the work of your hands. Through St. Vincent de Paul, we discover that the poor are our lords and masters. Grant us this same grace.

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“The Vincentian Style” Theme: The Holy Spirit sends us Introduction: Prayer, mission and community are the three guiding pillars of our life. Jesus Christ is our model. To be missionaries in JMV means that we realize we have received a light that shines on us. It also means being one with the Missionary Church by praying for the missions, helping in campaigns, going without some things so that others may have more. Bible Reading: Lk. 4:16-21 VincentianText: "Now if it is true that we are called to bear God’s love near and far, if we must set nations alight, if our vocation is to go and spread this divine fire in the whole world, if it is so, my brothers, if it is really so, how must I myself burn of this divine fire!” (S.V.P. ES XI,554) Points for reflection: • Vocation and mission are two ideas that

complement each other. “Come follow me” finds its completion in “go and preach to all nations”. “To follow” means to leave everything for Christ, for His mission; it means assuming the way of life of Jesus.

• Zeal consists of the sole desire to become pleasing to God and to be of service to others with enthusiasm and dedication.

• The Holy Spirit is a divine force living in us that makes God’s gift abide in us - inspiring us, making us talk and act in accordance with God. It is the love of God present in us that calls and send us.

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The Manifestation at the Wedding at Cana They ran out of wine, and the mother of Jesus said to him, “They have no wine.” Jesus said, “Woman what do you want from me? My hour has not come yet.” His mother said to the servants, “Do whatever he tells you.” (Jn. 2: 3-5) This was the first of Jesus’ signs: it was in Cana in Galilee. He revealed his glory, and his disciples believed in Him. (Jn 2:11) Spirit of Collaboration: It is all one who does the planting and who does the watering, and each will have the proper pay for the work that he has done. After all we do share in God’s work; you are God’s farm, God’s building. (1 Cor. 3:8-9) The Proclamation of the Kingdom of God Jesus, with the power of the spirit in him returned to Galilee; and his reputation spread throughout the countryside. He taught in their synagogues and everyone glorified him. (Lk 4:14-15) “The time is fulfilled and the Kingdom of God is close at hand. Repent and believe the gospel.” (Mk. 1:15) The people that walked in darkness have seen a great light; on the inhabitants of a country in shadow as dark as death light has blazed forth. You have enlarged the nation, you have increased its joy. (Is. 9:1-2)

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Conversion: Now you must repent and turn to God, so that your sins may be wiped out, and so that the Lord may send the time for comfort. Then he will send you the Christ he has predestined and that is Jesus, whom heaven must keep till the universal restoration comes. (Ac 3:19-21) The Transfiguration of Jesus Six days later, Jesus took with him Peter and James and John and led them up a high mountain on their own by themselves. There in their presence he was transfigured: his clothes became brilliantly white, whiter than any earthly bleacher could make them. (Mk. 9:2-3) Suddenly a bright cloud covered them with a shadow, and suddenly from the cloud there came a voice which said, “This is my Son, the Beloved; he enjoys my favor. Listen to him.” (Mt. 17:5) When we were told about the power and the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ, we were not slavishly repeating cleverly invented myths; no, we had seen his majesty with our own eyes. (2 P. 1:16) Simplicity: There is one thing that we are proud of, namely our conscientious conviction that we have always behaved towards everyone, and especially towards you, with that unalloyed holiness that comes from God, relying not on human reasoning but on the grace of God. (2 Cor. 1:12)

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possessions will find life. This gives him the capacity to dedicate his time and effort in the building of the Kingdom of God, taking on the attitude of a faithful servant.

• Service to the poor reminds us of the mystical but real presence of Christ. God comes to our meeting and we can find Him if we let ourselves be found. Following the example of Jesus, we find in service the reason of our life…. and let us always remember that through service we are bringing to completion God’s gift that acts in us.

Questions: • Are you searching for your place and call?

… listen and find out… • How can you follow God’s way of life?

Closing Prayer:

Now that I have found out how much I can do for others, grant me, Lord, the courage so as not to be afraid to respond generously to your call.

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Closing Prayer: Let us address to the Lord our concerns… He alone can give us the strength to opt for Him, opening our hearts to the needs of others, especially to the poorest of the poor. Fill us with your grace and help us to remember that every time we serve, we are responding to your love and fidelity. May our service be concrete and effective.

“It is never too late” Theme: The call Introduction: We shall be able to find the right place and service by listening to God. He continues to call us up to the end of our lives. Bible Reading: Lk. 17:7-10 Vincentian Text: "We cannot better make certain of our eternal happiness than by living and dying in the arms of Providence, in the genuine renouncement of ourselves, in the following of Jesus Christ.” (S.V.III, 359) Points for reflection: • God’s call is always a surprise and knows

neither time nor age but it asks a response. Whoever puts himself in the hands of God instead of relying on his own

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The Institution of the Eucharist Then he took bread, and when he had given thanks, he broke it and gave it to them saying, “This is my body given for you; do this in remembrance of me”. He did the same with the cup after supper, and said, “This cup is the new covenant in my blood poured out for you.” (Lk. 22:19-20) From now on, I tell you, I shall never again drink wine until the day I drink the new wine with you in the kingdom of my Father. (Mt. 26:29) Whenever you eat this bread, then, and drink this cup, you are proclaiming the Lord’s death until he comes. Therefore, anyone who eats the bread or drinks the cup of the Lord unworthily is answerable for the body and blood of the Lord. (1 Cor 11:26-27) Charity: Love is always patient and kind; love is never jealous; love is not boastful or conceited, it is never rude and never seeks its own advantage, it does not take offense or store up grievances. Love does not rejoice at wrongdoing, but finds its joy in the truth. It is always ready to make allowances, to trust, to hope and to endure whatever comes. (1 Cor. 13: 4-7)

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Marian

Consecration

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Points for reflection: • Discover the meaning of the invitation of

Jesus to see Him in the poor and to follow His example. Christ does not only want us to see Him in the poor but he also wants us to act, to do something. The Good Samaritan saw someone in need and he hurried to help. St. Vincent always helped those who were in his reach: the orphans, the elderly, the sick… he searched for solutions and means. And he never made excuses by saying that his problems were many and maybe his efforts would be in vain.

• Being a Christian requires that we be good Samaritans. It is not enough to be avoid sin or keep the commandments. We have to take a positive attitude by doing good works and bringing the brotherhood of all to a reality. Being a neighbor demands that we forget our differences and help others.

• Charity or love is the greatest commandment. Charity is being sensitive to the needs of others. That is how we will be judged: by the times we have been sensitive to the needs of our neighbor.

Questions: • St. Vincent dedicated himself entirely to the

poor by seeking all the means necessary for their service and evangelization. How about you? What do you do for them?

• I feel the Lord is inviting me to be of service… In what manner has Jesus’ example helped you define your attitude towards the poor? In what way does your attitude towards the poor define your life with Jesus?

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Questions:

• How do we share the love we receive from God?

• Is it better that our actions speak louder than our words? Why?

Closing Prayer:

Lord, you truly love me and this realization has changed me. The love you have for me, you, who loved me first, is repaid with love. Help me to share it with others.

“See the poor...and act” Theme: The Good Samaritan Introduction: Jesus invites us to live the faith

through a life of commitment. We must not remain neutral before those we find wounded along the way. Jesus will tell us: “Go and do the same.” Bible Reading: Lk. 10:25-37

Vincentian Text: "To serve the poor is to serve Jesus Christ. You serve Jesus Christ in the person of the poor. This is as true as we are here today. A sister will go ten times a day to visit the sick and ten times a day she will find God in them. (SVP. IX, 252, ES IX, 240)

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TO JESUS WITH MARY Lord Jesus, following the example of Mary, I want to DISCOVER you! With her, Mother of the Church, and in the heart of a serving community, I want to be a youthful presence, committing myself generously to evangelization. Lord Jesus, following the example of Mary, I want to FOLLOW you! With Mary, favored daughter of God the Father, and in faithfulness to my baptismal consecration, I want to be like You, the Evangelizer of the poor, by being a builder of Life, Love and Peace! Lord Jesus, like Mary, I want to LOVE you! With her, the prayerful Virgin, filled with the Holy Spirit, I want to make of my life a way of Prayer and Service, in simplicity, and humility, assuming the spirituality of the Magnificat. Lord Jesus, like Mary, I want to OFFER myself! With her, the first disciple, I want to open my heart and my mind to the mission, so that the gifts that You have given me may be at the service of the young of the world, thus becoming your hands, Lord, for others. O Mary conceived without sin, pray for us who have recourse to you.

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VINCENTIANVINCENTIANVINCENTIANVINCENTIAN

PRAYERS PRAYERS PRAYERS PRAYERS

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“My witnessing here and now” Theme: The Layperson, a means of evangelization Introduction: Let us try to analyze our present reality, what we know of our surroundings in order to see it as the best field of action. It is important to reflect on the image we have of humanity and the responses that society gives, putting special emphasis on our response as Vincentians. Our motivation should be similar to that of Jesus who feels a special preference for the least, opts to be on their side and is near to the suffering of the poor. Bible Reading: Mt. 25:31-46 Vincentian Text: "I have been sent not only to love God but also to make men love Him. It is not enough to love God if my neighbor does not love Him.” (S.V.P. XII, 262 - 263: ES XI, 553 - 554) Points for reflection: • Laypersons are normally involved in the

world of their time. It is in the core of this living in community with others that they give witness of their faith through their words and lifestyle.

• God’s main objective is to manifest Himself to us, to give Himself personally to us for the purpose of establishing a bond with us. This offering made by God leads to the most absolute participation on our part.

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Points for reflection: • Baptism is the sacrament of Christian

identity that makes us share in the resurrection of Christ. It is a grace and a task at the same time. It is grace because it sets us free from our sins and makes us adopted children of the Father and brothers and sisters of the Son. It is a task because we have to live according to the freedom as children of God. We need to empty ourselves in order to be filled with Jesus Christ.

• All Christians are called to be like Jesus Christ in life and in death. To follow Jesus requires that we renounce ourselves and eventually this leads us to lose our own life. The disciple Paul says it best… “ I am alive; yet it is no longer I, but Christ living in me.”(Gal. 2:20)

Questions: • How did St. Vincent live his option for

Christ? • What direction will you give to your life?

Do you feel questioned by Jesus Christ? Closing Prayer:

The death of Jesus on the cross teaches us to love by taking on the cross as a sign of solidarity so we may never be overcome by the difficulties of life.

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Praying with the Vincentian Family … One with the Universal Church, called together by our love for the mission and as Vincentians, we unite in prayer with the saints of our Family. Following their example, we are daily invited to give our life for our brothers, especially the poor and the needy.

• PRAYER TO IMITATE CHRIST O Savior of the world, to you it was sheer joy to fulfill the will of your Father. We are your children, we throw ourselves into your arms now, for we want to do what you have done. Please, give us that grace! Because we can never do it by ourselves. We are asking for your help now. We hope for it in confidence in our burning desire to do your will. O Lord, if it please you, grant us your Spirit, so that we will make ourselves ever more pleasing to you.

• PRAYER OF THE VINCENTIAN FAMILY

Lord Jesus, you who willed to become poor, give us eyes and a heart directed toward the poor; help us to recognize you in them – in their thirst, their hunger, their loneliness and their misfortune. Enkindle within our Vincentian Family unity, simplicity, humility, and the fire of love that burned in St. Vincent de Paul. Strengthen us, so that, faithful to the practice of these virtues, we may contemplate you and serve you in the person of the poor, and we may one day be united with you and them in your Kingdom. Amen.

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• PRAYING WITH ST. VINCENT AND ST. LOUISE

O God eternal, who filled Saints Vincent and Louise with charity, listen to our prayer. Give us your love. By their example, lead us to discover and serve Jesus Christ, your Son, in our brothers the poor. At their school, teach us to love, to love with the sweat of our brows, to love with the strength of our arms, with humility, simplicity and with charity. By their prayers lead not our hearts to trust solely in our own strength or beat for our own selfish end but make us remember that we all one day will be judged according to our love. Through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

• PRAYER TO ST. LOUISE DE

MARILLAC God our Father, the source and reward of love, through your Son who became man you gave the new commandment of love to your Church. May we follow the example of St. Louise; and by practicing your love on earth may we obtain the kingdom promised to your people who are faithful. We ask this through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, now and forever. Amen.

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VINCENTIAN St. Vincent, man of Christ Theme: Learn to give by giving one’s self Introduction: In his Passion, Jesus lives the great moment of truth, the moment when the link between his word and his actions will be submitted to the test of contradictions. Two roads open up before Him: to remain firm in the direction of His life or to abandon His mission. But Jesus remains firm to the word. His attitude gives meaning to His death; to live for His Father and for his brothers was His way of life; it would also be His way of death. Bible Reading: Ph.2: 6-8 Vincentian Text: "We live in Jesus Christ through the death of Jesus Christ and we must die in Jesus Christ through the life of Jesus Christ, and our life must be hidden in Jesus Christ and filled with Jesus Christ, and in order to die as Jesus Christ, we must live as Jesus Christ."(S.V.P. I, 294 - 295: ES I, 320)

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Questions: • How do I follow Mary’s example? How do I

make myself present in the lives of others? • Imagine that Mary is in your house …

something is worrying you; a feeling of anxiety bothers you. Mary tells you: “It seems you need to talk…” What would you tell her? Open your heart and mind to her. Remember that she loves you…

Closing Prayer:

Mary of the visitation, today as in the past, you continue to visit your children by making yourself present in their lives and showing your love for each one of them. Through your intercession, we ask you to obtain from your Son the grace to live as you lived, allowing God to visit us and bringing His presence to others.

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• PRAYER OF SAINT CATHERINE LABOURE

Whenever I go to the chapel, I put myself in the presence of our good Lord, and I say to him "Lord, I am here. Tell me what you would have me do." If he gives me some task, I am content and I thank him. If he gives me nothing, I still thank him since I do not deserve to receive anything more than that. And then, I tell God everything that is in my heart. I tell him about my pains and my joys, and then I listen. If you listen, God will also speak to you, for with the good Lord, you have to both speak and listen. God always speaks to you when you approach him plainly and simply.

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PRAYER OF THE MARIAN YOUTH

MOVEMENT

Lord Jesus, we come to You with Mary Immaculate. You, the friend of the insignificant and the poor, we praise You. You regard each one of us with so much Love. Teach us to LIVE TOGETHER with the dynamism of Your Spirit which commits us to the way of wonder, of truth and of action. Grant us to LOOK AT others with the eyes of the heart, so as to recognize the wonders that You work in them and, in particular, in all those who are disadvantaged. Help us to BUILD a fraternal world where no one may be put aside. Make us act, not in a spirit of power or of domination, but humbly, in a spirit of service.

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Questions: • Meditate on an important event of your life.

Ask yourself: how did God act in this event? Were you aware that you wanted to do God’s will?

• It is said that each one of us has a great moment in life…What has been your great moment as a Christian? What did your action consist of?

Closing Prayer: Let us strive to transform the dullness of our lives into abundant wine. We place in God’s hands all our needs and that of our families and friends.

"Your life matters to me" Theme: The Visitation Introduction: God visited Mary and, at once, she felt the need to visit others and share her joy with them. Truly, the Virgin is favored from generation to generation because the Lord has done great things for her. She believed in the promise of the Lord. Bible Reading: Lk. 1:39-45 Points for reflection: • Mary’s availability - a woman capable of

bearing the difficulties and risks of life. • A woman focused on God and attentive to

the needs of others. She brings them the Good News – Jesus.

• Mary, a woman captivated by the love of God that becomes love-service for others. Love was always the driving force in Mary’s life – an unbounded love that brought her to be present for others and accompany them.

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Questions : • When I am with other young people, am I an

instrument of goodness? Or do I lead them along bad paths?

• What concrete contribution do I give to my local Church?

Closing Prayer:

Lord, grant that we may contemplate the cross with eyes full of faith, and remain faithful to you, just like Mary, our Mother.

"The Right Moment" Theme : The Wedding Feast at Cana Introduction: Mary is perfect. However, she is not far from us; she belongs to our family, intimately rooted in our daily life, never isolated or inaccessible but very near. As a believer, Mary asks for the first miracle to be done… She is the mediatrix of the early faith of the apostles and she continues to be for all humanity, always mindful of its needs. Bible Reading: Jn. 2:1-12 Points for reflection: • To be certain of God’s plan in our life

normally requires a combination of patience, prayer, reflection on our experiences as well as good personal accompaniment and guidance.

• Our time is a precious and valuable gift. Service to others should also be freely given. Like Mary we have to live God’s will through the events of our daily life.

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MISSIONARY PRAYER OF MISEVI

God, Father of goodness, You who call each one of us by name, help us to be faithful to the vocation received. We want to be salt and light of the world,

always serving among the poor with an affective and effective love. We need your Son Jesus Christ to preach your Word in the places we have been sent. We want to be witnesses of

the Kingdom, living out the Beatitudes. Send us the Holy Spirit so that, as Church, we will live in communion and unity with others. We, lay missionaries, want to welcome the gift of community and renew ourselves in the light of your Gospel. May Mary, Queen of the Missions, accompany and watch over the continuity of our self-giving in the task entrusted by Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

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Part III:

PRAYER THEMES

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"Mary gathers us together"

Theme: Mary, Mother of the Youth Introduction: The Church is the people of God. It is the people consecrated by Christ by virtue of His death and resurrection. The Church is the fruit of the gift of the Spirit of Jesus. It is the communion of faith and love among all believers. Thus, salvation reaches us at a personal level, but not at an individual level. Bible Reading: Jn. 19:25-27 Points for reflection:

• Jesus gives us Mary to be the Mother of the Church. She gathers us together and teaches us to live in solidarity, a solidarity that permits us to share and contribute to the good of all.

• Young people are called, together with the ministers of the Church, to be leading agents in the building of a “Civilization of love” by living out the spirituality, dynamism, joy, critical reflection and values proper to the youth.

• The youth can be a great influence in our modern society. This growing influence in society demands an active apostolate. Young people possess drive and enthusiasm. They have great imagination and spontaneity. If all of these are driven by the spirit of Christ, then we can be sure it will bear much fruit. The youth are the first and direct apostles of other youth. We are called to be active members in solidarity with the Church.

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"My Life… a Song of Praise"

Theme: The Magnificat Introduction: Mary is grateful because God has looked on her and has done great things in her. The Magnificat is the song of thanksgiving that bursts forth from Mary’s heart when her cousin Elizabeth feels the child inside her womb leap with joy because God made man has entered her house. It manifests trust in God’s faithful love. Bible Reading: Lk. 1:46-55 Points for reflection: • Gratitude is having an open heart; a

listening heart; a heart full of faith. Everyday, God manifests His great love for us – He gives us life; He gives us a new surprise; He grants us a favor. In the same manner, we are invited to show our gratitude, a simple “thank you, Lord” for listening to us.

Questions:

• As a young JMV, what does the Magnificat tell you?

• What are the challenges it presents? What hopes do you discover in it?

Closing Prayer:

Mary, through the Magnificat, you give us a preview of the Kingdom that your Son proclaimed. As the first Christian, you show us the ideal way of our lives.

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Practical recommendations on developing a life of prayer:

I. Jesus, teach us to pray "In the morning, long before dawn, Jesus got up and left the house and went off to a lonely place and prayed there.”

(Mk. 1:35) 1. Look for a cozy place: in a church

or chapel, in your room. 2. Sit comfortably, be calm and

concentrate. To do this: leave your concerns behind… concentrate on the here and now, in the present moment, in this very place where you find yourself…

3. Take a few moments to be aware of

yourself. Observe yourself in silence, in inner tranquility, serenity, peace and openness…

4. Focus your attention on the face or

icon of Jesus.

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5. Close your eyes and try to remain

silent, being conscious of yourself and the face of Jesus…

6. Take note of your desires to pray, to

be near Jesus, to feel Him close to you…

7. Read the passage (or better yet,

recall it without reading again) "In the morning, long before dawn, Jesus got up and left the house and went off to a lonely place and prayed there.” (Mk. 1:35) 8. Afterwards, close your eyes or leave

them half shut. Imagine Jesus before daybreak, going out of his house toward a deserted place, kneeling down and praying to God his Father… Observe and contemplate Him silently.

9. If you prefer, imagine Him now

together with you, praying to God our Father.

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Marian "I want to say yes" Theme: The Annunciation Introduction: Mary is the woman chosen by God in order to realize through her the work of salvation. And this required a YES. Without her free and total cooperation nothing would have happened… Bible Reading: Lk. 1:26-38 Points for reflection:

• Mary, model of self-giving and generosity. Mary’s “yes” is the foundation of our response of faith to God. Like Mary, God invites us – he never imposes – to respond freely to His love. Once we accept his invitation a bond of love is created between God and us - a bond He will never betray.

Questions :

• God also wants to tell you something... He speaks to you now… do you listen to Him?

• What yes is God asking from us today? Are we willing to sacrifice our own self in order to make God’s plan a reality in us?

Closing Prayer: Thank you, Lord, for the gift of faith. You invite us to live the experience of God in our lives. JMV draws us nearer to the Mystery of Salvation. Amen.

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GUIDESGUIDESGUIDES

forforfor CELEBRATIONSCELEBRATIONSCELEBRATIONS

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10. Let your heart, mind and your

whole being be filled with the prayer of Jesus, with the spirit of Jesus...

11. Repeat in your heart, like an echo

of your soul....

Jesus, teach us to pray... Jesus teach us to pray… Jesus, teach us to pray with your own spirit… Jesus teach us to pray… Jesus, fill us with your spirit of prayer…. Jesus teach us to pray…

II. Abandoning oneself into the hands of God

1. Be conscious of yourself, of your being. 2. Relax, be calm and settle down. 3. Silence, inner calmness, serenity.

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4. “Do not worry about your life and

what you are to eat, nor about your body and what you are to wear. Surely life is more than food, and the body more than clothing! Look at the birds in the sky. They do not sow or reap or gather into barns; yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not worth much more than they are? Set your hearts on his kingdom first, and on God’s saving justice, and all these things will be given you as well. So, do not worry about tomorrow: tomorrow will take care of itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.” (Mt. 6:25-34)

5. Abandoning one’s self into the hands

of God in this very moment. (Like someone who is immersed in water…) Experience the sensation of sinking in God, of being immersed in God.

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6. Repeat this from the depth of your soul: “Father I place myself in your hands.”

− Father: inhale (as an impulse

toward God) − I place myself in your hands: exhale

(abandoning ourselves in God)