visit of don bosco's relic: liturgies and para-liturgy

Visit of the Relic of St. John Bosco: Dec. 23, 2010 – Jan. 15, 2010

CELEBRATIONS IN HONOR OF ST. JOHN BOSCOLITURGY & PARA-LITURGIES

Contents:

Welcoming the Relic- Outside the Church.......................................................... 3- Inside the

Church .............................................................7

- When Holy Mass follows...................................................

11

Celebration of Handing Over- At the end of the Holy

Mass .............................................16

- Outside the Holy Mass .................................................... 17

Prayers for Venerations- Children Meet. St. John Bosco ....................................... 19, 20- Adolescents Meet St. John Bosco .................................. 19, 23 - Youth Meet St. John Bosco .......................................... 19, 26- Adults Meet St. John Bosco .......................................... 19,29 - The Salesian Family Meet St. John Bosco ...................... 19, 32- Personal Veneration .................................. .................. 19, 35

Holy Mass in Honor of St. John Bosco .................................... 37

Liturgies & Para-liturgy 1

Suggestion: Prayers for Veneration be formatted

to fit one back-to-back sheet for different groups to use as they come.

WELCOMING CEREMONY

In welcoming the Urn it is possible to accept the Rite of Blessing for the image of a Saint taken from the Book of Blessings, using the same scheme. We suggest two approaches.

1. Welcome outside the church entering in procession. 2. Welcome inside the church.

Welcome outside the church entering in procession. Greeting outside the church Entering in procession Placement

Without mass OR With Mass- Readings /Homily- Incensation- Veneration

- Incensation- Holy Mass- Veneration

Welcome inside the church entering in procession. Entering in procession Introduction Placement

Without mass OR With Mass- Readings /Homily- Incensation- Veneration

- Incensation- Holy Mass- Veneration


WELCOME OUTSIDE THE CHURCH

Priest: In the name of the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit.R. Amen.

Priest: The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, crown of all the Saints, the love of God our Father and the communion of the Holy Spirit, be with you.

R. And also with you.

Introductory WordPriest: Dearly beloved, we welcome with great affection and devotion the relics of

St John Bosco. Our celebration, gives glory to God in the first place, the source of all holiness. Let us prepare our hearts to understand the true meaning of this celebration. In his lifetime, St. John Bosco always was first to approach, first to give a kind word, first to visit. We continue to feel his care and welcome his visit to our place.

Let us pray.Lord God, in your providence you gave us Saint John Bosco, father and teacher of the young, who worked with tireless zeal, under the guidance of the Virgin Mary, for the good of the Church; arouse in us the same apostolic charity, which urges us to seek the salvation of our brothers to serve you, our one and only good, through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son who is God, and who lives and reigns with you, in the unity of the Holy Spirit forever and ever.

R. Amen.

Procession and Placement Of The Urn/ Relic inside the ChurchAppropriate Song of the Saint is sung. Side location or angled sideways in respect to the altar.

Hymn To St. John BoscoSaint of youth, O Saint John BoscoSet our hearts on God’s wondersLead us to our heavenly homeSaint John Bosco, Saint John Bosco!(Saint John Bosco, Pray for us all) Saint of youth we come to youListen with a shepherd’s earHear us Father dearYour children standing hereBring us peace, calm our fear.

Saint of youth we come to you With you as guide, we journey onIn the dark of nightKeep us in your sightLead us safe to the light.

St. John Bosco, Our Loving Father

St. John Bosco, our loving Father,Now we lift to thee our voices.As we gather around thine altar,Far and wide the world rejoices.St. John Bosco, we're thy dearest;Whose protection are imploring.For in heaven thou remainest,An apostle 'mid thee adoring.// John Bosco, thy children on many a shore;Shall love and revere thee till time be no more.// (2X)


Saint of youth, we come to youBring us close to God’s embraceKeep us in his graceThat in the end of daysWe may see his loving faceAfter the relic is reposedOption if Mass follows (go to page 11)

Option if no Mass follows:R By offering the relics of St John Bosco to the devout attention of the faithful, holy

Mother Church wishes to place before us the image of those who, led by the Holy Spirit, followed Jesus in life and in death, so that by lifting our gaze to heaven we may see the way that the Saints have given us to follow. They are friends of the Lord. They are our models and patrons. They love us. They come to our aid, intercede for us, because of the mysterious bond of communion between the pilgrim members of the Church on earth and those who have already entered the heavenly Jerusalem.

(Please be seated)

An Excerpt in the Life of St. John Boscoby Teresio Bosco

One evening in June, after a very tiring Sunday of confessions, preaching, leading his youngsters in play, he fainted. He was a few meters from the Refuge and some passerby carried him in there. During the night his temperature rose to alarming heights. On the scaffolding of the masons, in the workshops of the young mechanics the news spread throughout the city: “Don Bosco is dying.”

That evening, in a room at the Refuge where Don Bosco hovered between life and death laid low by pneumonia, groups of bewildered lads began to arrive. They were still in their working clothes. They had not eaten their tea in their hurry to get there. They were crying, they were praying: “Good Lord, don’t let him die.”

For eight days Don Bosco was at death’s door. There were many boys who, for those whole eight days, had not touched a drop of water to extort a special grace from heaven. At the Church of the Consolata, young workmen took turns to pray, night and day, in front of the statue of the Madonna. At times their eyes closed in sleep but these lads stuck to it because DON BOSCO MUST NOT DIE!

The grace was obtained, extorted from the Madonna by her little ones who could not bear the thought of being deprived of their father.

One Sunday, after midday, leaning on a stick, Don Bosco slowly walked back to the Oratory. The boys flew to meet him. The bigger lads made him sit on a chair, they lifted him and it on to their shoulders, carried him in triumph to the courtyard. They sang and they cried, these little ones of Don Bosco, and he cried with them.

They went into the chapel and thanked the good Lord. Don Bosco managed to say a few words: “I owe my life to you. Be certain of this, from this day forward I will spend it entirely for you.”


Homily

Psalm(Ps 24:1bc-2, 3-4ab, 5-6)

R. Blessed be the Lord, the glory of his Saints

Blessed the man who follows notthe counsel of the wickedNor walks in the way of sinners,nor sits in the company of the insolent,But delights in the law of the LORDand meditates on his law day and night.


He is like a treeplanted near running water,That yields its fruit in due season,and whose leaves never fade.Whatever he does, prospers.


Not so the wicked, not so;they are like chaff which the wind drives away.For the LORD watches over the way of the just,but the way of the wicked vanishes.


(All stand)Prayer of the FaithfulPriest: In this celebration in honour of the Father and Teacher of the young, we

address our prayer to God the Father, who is always ready to accept the prayers of his children

R. Lord, hear our prayer.

R. For the Pope, bishops, priests and deacons: that they may proclaim the Gospel of truth and joy through generous witness to their calling, we pray to the Lord.

R. For all people of good will: that their commitment to a better world may be based on a generous and disinterested love, we pray to the Lord.

R. For the Salesians and the Salesian Sisters that by imitating St John Bosco in his total gift of his life and service of the young, they may learn how to form in them the true image of Christ, we pray to the Lord.


R. For neglected, marginalised young people without ideals: that they may find in every son and daughter of St John Bosco a friend to help them to construct their life according to the Gospel, we pray to the Lord.

R. For all those involved in the Christian education of the young: that they may find in their holy Patron a teacher and guide to inspire them in their mission, we pray to the Lord.

R. For those of us gathered here at the Urn of St John Bosco: that with him as a model for holiness we may be committed each day to carrying out the Gospel teaching of love and mutual acceptance to one day be welcomed into the Lord's presence, we pray to the Lord.

Other intentions

Priest Ever faithful God, you gave to Saint John Bosco a great and generous heart; hear our prayer, that with your Spirit as our guide we may strive to live out each day what we have asked for with faith. Grant this through Christ our Lord.

Priest: The Lord's Prayer follows Our Father.

Final PrayerPriest: Let us pray.

O God source of all grace and holiness, look with love on your faithful who have welcomed this reliquary of St John Bosco, friend and heir of Christ, and faithful witness to the Gospel. May his intercession at the throne of your glory, bring us closer to your, through Christ our Lord.

R. Amen.

IncensationThe celebrant venerates the Urn/ Relic with incense. Following this some young people may decorate the Urn symbolically with flowers and lamps, or with two appropriate sentences chosen from the Gospel and from writings of the Saint.

Conclusion Priest: The priest extends his hands over those present saying:

O God, your are the glory and joy of your faithful servants. You gave us in St John Bosco a sign of your protection. Free us from present evils. May his example urge us to live according to the Gospel, in the service of God and our brothers and sisters.

R. Amen.

Priest: And may the blessing of Almighty God, Father, Son and Holy Spirit, descend on you, and with you remain forever.

R. Amen.


Hymn in honour of St John BoscoPrivate / Group Veneration

WELCOME INSIDE THE CHURCH (when no Holy Mass follows)

The Relic/ Urn is solemnly wheeled into the church, preferably a side location or angled sideways in respect to the altar. An appropriate song is sung. Suggestions below.

Hymn To St. John Bosco Saint of youth, O Saint John BoscoSet our hearts on God’s wondersLead us to our heavenly homeSaint John Bosco, Saint John Bosco!(Saint John Bosco, Pray for us all) Saint of youth we come to youListen with a shepherd’s earHear us Father dearYour children standing hereBring us peace, calm our fear.

Saint of youth we come to you With you as guide, we journey onIn the dark of nightKeep us in your sightLead us safe to the light. Saint of youth, we come to youBring us close to God’s embraceKeep us in his graceThat in the end of daysWe may see his loving face



Placement Of The Urn/ RelicSide location or angled sideways in respect to the altar.

Everyone makes the sign of the Cross, while the priest says

Priest: In the name of the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit.R. Amen.

Priest: The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, crown of all the Saints, the love of God our Father and the communion of the Holy Spirit, be with you.



Introductory WordPriest: Dearly beloved, we welcome with great affection and devotion the relics of St

John Bosco. Our celebration, gives glory to God in the first place, the source of all holiness. Let us prepare our hearts to understand the true meaning of this celebration.

R. By offering the relics of St John Bosco to the devout attention of the faithful, holy Mother Church wishes to place before us the image of those who, led by the Holy Spirit, followed Jesus in life and in death, so that by lifting our gaze to heaven we may see the way that the Saints have given us to follow. They are friends of the Lord. They are our models and patrons. They love us. They come to our aid, intercede for us, because of the mysterious bond of communion between the pilgrim members of the Church on earth and those who have already entered the heavenly Jerusalem.

PrayerPriest: Let us pray.

Lord God, in your providence you gave us Saint John Bosco, father and teacher of the young, who worked with tireless zeal, under the guidance of the Virgin Mary, for the good of the Church; arouse in us the same apostolic charity, which urges us to seek the salvation of our brothers to serve you, our one and only good, through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son who is God, and who lives and reigns with you, in the unity of the Holy Spirit forever and ever.

R. Amen.

An Excerpt in the Life of St. John Boscoby Teresio Bosco

One evening in June, after a very tiring Sunday of confessions, preaching, leading his youngsters in play, he fainted. He was a few meters from the Refuge and some passerby carried him in there. During the night his temperature rose to alarming heights. On the scaffolding of the masons, in the workshops of the young mechanics the news spread throughout the city: “Don Bosco is dying.”

That evening, in a room at the Refuge where Don Bosco hovered between life and death laid low by pneumonia, groups of bewildered lads began to arrive. They were still in their working clothes. They had not eaten their tea in their hurry to get there. They were crying, they were praying: “Good Lord, don’t let him die.”

For eight days Don Bosco was at death’s door. There were many boys who, for those whole eight days, had not touched a drop of water to extort a special grace from heaven. At the Church of the Consolata, young workmen took turns to pray, night and day, in front of the statue of the Madonna. At times their eyes closed in sleep but these lads stuck to it because DON BOSCO MUST NOT DIE!

The grace was obtained, extorted from the Madonna by her little ones who could not bear the thought of being deprived of their father.

One Sunday, after midday, leaning on a stick, Don Bosco slowly walked back to the Oratory. The boys flew to meet him. The bigger lads made him sit on a chair, they lifted him and it on to their shoulders, carried him in triumph to the courtyard. They sang and they cried, these little ones of Don Bosco, and he cried with them.


They went into the chapel and thanked the good Lord. Don Bosco managed to say a few words: “I owe my life to you. Be certain of this, from this day forward I will spend it entirely for you.”Homily

Psalm(Ps 24:1bc-2, 3-4ab, 5-6)R. Blessed be the Lord, the glory of his Saints







(All stand)Prayer of the FaithfulPriest: In this celebration in honour of the Father and Teacher of the young, we










Other intentions


Priest: The Lord's Prayer follows Our Father.

Final PrayerPriest: Let us pray.

O God source of all grace and holiness, look with love on your faithful who have welcomed this reliquary of St John Bosco, friend and heir of Christ, and faithful witness to the Gospel. May his intercession at the throne of your glory, bring us closer to your, through Christ our Lord.

R. Amen.

IncensationThe celebrant venerates the Urn/ Relic with incense. Following this some young people may decorate the Urn symbolically with flowers and lamps, or with two appropriate sentences chosen from the Gospel and from writings of the Saint.

Conclusion Priest: The priest extends his hands over those present saying:

O God, your are the glory and joy of your faithful servants. You gave us in St John Bosco a sign of your protection. Free us from present evils. May his example urge us to live according to the Gospel, in the service of God and our brothers and sisters.

R. Amen.


R. Amen.


Hymn in honour of St John BoscoPrivate / Group Veneration

HOLY MASS WHEN WELCOMING THE RELIC (after reposing the Relic)

Opening PrayerPriest: Let us pray.

Lord our God,In your providence you have given us Saint John Bosco,the father and teacher of youth,who under the guidance of the Virgin Maryworked with untiring zealfor the good of the Church;inspire us with that same apostolic charity,to seek the salvation of our neighbourand so serve you, the one and only good.

We ask this through our Lord Jesus Christ your Son,who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit,one God, for ever and ever.

Amen.

Reading of the Word of God

1st Reading: A Reading from the Book of Ezekiel(Ezek 34, 11-12.15-16.23-24.30-31)

For thus says the Lord GOD: I myself will look after and tend my sheep. As a shepherd tends his flock when he finds himself among his scattered sheep, so will I tend my sheep. I will rescue them from every place where they were scattered when it was cloudy and dark. I myself will pasture my sheep; I myself will give them rest, says the Lord GOD. The lost I will seek out, the strayed I will bring back, the injured I will bind up, the sick I will heal (but the sleek and the strong I will destroy), shepherding them rightly.

I will appoint one shepherd over them to pasture them, my servant David; he shall pasture them and be their shepherd. I, the LORD, will be their God, and my servant David shall be prince among them. I, the LORD, have spoken. Thus they shall know that I, the LORD, am their God, and they are my people, the house of Israel, says the Lord GOD. (You, my sheep, you are the sheep of my pasture, and I am your God, says the Lord GOD.)

The Word of the Lord.


Thanks be to God.

Responsorial Psalm (Ps 24:1bc-2, 3-4ab, 5-6)R. Blessed be the Lord, the glory of his Saints







A Reading from the Holy Gospel according to Matthew (Mt 5:1-12a)

When Jesus saw the crowds, he went up the mountain, and after he had sat down, his disciples came to him. He began to teach them, saying:

“Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the Kingdom of heaven.Blessed are they who mourn, for they will be comforted.Blessed are the meek for they will inherit the land.Blessed are they who hunger and thirst for righteousness,for they will be satisfied.Blessed are the merciful, for they will be shown mercy.Blessed are the clean of heart, for they will see God.Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God.Blessed are they who are persecuted for the sake of righteousness,for theirs is the Kingdom of heaven.Blessed are you when they insult you and persecute you and utter every kind of evil against you falsely because of me.Rejoice and be glad, for your reward will be great in heaven.”

The Gospel of the Lord.Praise to you O Lord, Jesus Christ.


Homily

Prayer of the FaithfulPriest: In this celebration in honour of the Father and Teacher of the young, we









Other intentions


Prayer Over Gifts

Priest: Accept, holy Father,The sacrifice we offer youwith sincere devotion;grant that we may love you above all else,so that our whole lifemay be a hymn to your glory.

We ask this through Christ our Lord.


Preface

Saint John Bosco, a gift of God to the Church

P. The Lord be with youR. And also with you.

P. Lift up your hearts.R. We lift them up to the Lord.

V. Let us give thanks to the Lord our God.P. It is right to give him thanks and praise.

Father, all-powerful and ever-living God,we do well always and everywhere to give you thanksthrough Jesus Christ our Lord.

Father of eternal love you have raised up Saint John Bosco in the Churchas the father, brother and friend of the young,to lead them along the way of salvation.

With a prophetic vision of new times to come,he prepared them to face up to lifewith honesty, integrity and active faith.

Under the impulse of your Spirit,he brought into being a great Familyto continue throughout the worldhis mission of father and teacher.

And we, gathered together in festive assembly,raise up to you, Father,our hymn of adoration and praise,as together with the angels and saints in heavenwe proclaim your glory saying (singing):

Holy, holy, holy Lord, God of power amd might,heaven and earth are full of youir glory.Hosannah in the highest.Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord.Hosannah in the highest.


Communion AntiphonAnyone who welcomes one little child like this in my nameWelcomes me, says the Lord.

Prayer After Communion

Priest: Father, you have nourished uswith this sacrament of salvation;help us to imitate the tireless activity of Saint John Boscoin bringing young people to the love of Christ, your Son,the inexhaustible source of new life.

He lives and reigns forever and ever.

Prayer Of Thanksgiving

People: Almighty and eternal God, we thank you for the gift of St John Bosco,father and teacher of the young.Bless all of us all who have come with such devotion to see his relicsand to ask him to intercede with You.Free us from every affliction of body and mind,look after is in your mercy here and everywhereand keep us in your grace,so that we may deserve to come to the joy of Paradise.Bless and guard these relicsand all the faithful who receive a visit from this Urnso that by praying to St John Boscothey may come to You, O Father, who visits his peopleand proclaims through the life of your Saints the wonders of our Lord Jesus Christ. He who is God and lives and reigns with you,in the unity of the Holy Spirit, forever and ever. Amen.

(If the Relic is to be handed over after the Mass, the Prayer for Handing Over is inserted here before the Solemn Blessing)

Solemn Blessing

Priest: May the Lord who inspires every good intentionprotect you always by his graceand keep you faithful to your baptismal promises.

R. Amen.


Priest: May Christ, the Good Shepherd,enable you to serve with joy your brothers and sistersafter the example of our (your) holy Founder.

R. Amen.

Priest: May the Lord grant you,who have celebrated with joy the feast of Saint John Bosco,to walk always in faith, hope and love.

R. Amen.

Priest: And may the blessing of almighty God,

Father, Son + and Holy Spirit,Come down on you, and remain with you for ever.

R. Amen

CELEBRATION OF HANDING OVER (At the Conclusion of the Mass)(After the post communion prayer.)

Incensation (The celebrant venerates the Urn with incense)

Handing Over (The celebrant greets representatives of the community who will next receive the Urn of the Saint and invites them to receive the solemn blessing which will accompany them on the journey.)

BlessingPriest: To you, who are about to receive the relics of St John Bosco, may the Lord

grant that you may always walk in faith, hope and love, may he look after you and protect you as you walk to your community.

R. Amen.

Mass Conclusion:Priest The Lord be with you.



R. Amen.

Priest: The Mass is ended, let us go in peace

R: Thanks be to God

Final Hymn


CELEBRATION OF HANDING OVER (Outside the Mass)(This celebration may take place at the conclusion of the Thanksgiving Mass taken from the Proper of St John Bosco. After the post communion prayer the following schema is possible.) Priest In the Name of the Father...

The Lord be with you.


Priest Let us pray.Father God, we thank you for blessing us with the visit of our saintly Father, friend and guide, St. John Bosco.May the graces we have received through his intercessionallow us to come closer to you and one anotherthrough Christ our Lord. Amen

Prayer Of ThanksgivingPeople: Almighty and eternal God,

we thank you for the gift of St John Bosco,father and teacher of the young.Bless all of us all who have come with such devotion to see his relicsand to ask him to intercede with You.Free us from every affliction of body and mind,look after is in your mercy here and everywhereand keep us in your grace,so that we may deserve to come to the joy of Paradise.Bless and guard these relicsand all the faithful who receive a visit from this Urnso that by praying to St John Boscothey may come to You, O Father, who visits his peopleand proclaims through the life of your Saints the wonders of our Lord Jesus Christ. He who is God and lives and reigns with you,in the unity of the Holy Spirit, for ever and ever. Amen.

IncensationPriest: O Father, you have given us your blessings through your saints.

May we imitate the tireless efforts of St John Boscoto bring the young to the love of Christ your Son,the inexhaustible source of new life.He who lives and reigns for ever and ever.

R. Amen.

Priest: Gathering our prayers and praises into one let us now pray...Our Father in heaven....


Hail Mary full of grace...Glory be to the Father....

(while the prayers are recited the preside incenses the relic)

Handing Over (The celebrant greets representatives of the community who will next receive the Urn of the Saint and invites them to receive the solemn blessing which will accompany them on the journey.)

BlessingPriest: To you, who are about to receive the relics of St John Bosco, may the Lord

grant that you may always walk in faith, hope and love, may he look after you and protect you as you walk to your community.

R. Amen.

Conclusion:Priest The Lord be with you.


Priest: And may the blessing of Almighty God, Father, Son and Holy Spirit,descend on you, and remain with you forever.

R. Amen.

Hymn (Farewell Song: “Live the Dream” or any appropriate song)


PRAYERS FOR VENERATION

Don Bosco Meets The ChildrenHymn To St. John Bosco Saint of youth, O Saint John BoscoSet our hearts on God’s wondersLead us to our heavenly homeSaint John Bosco, Saint John Bosco!(Saint John Bosco, Pray for us all) Saint of youth we come to youListen with a shepherd’s earHear us Father dearYour children standing hereBring us peace, calm our fear.

Saint of youth we come to you With you as guide, we journey onIn the dark of nightKeep us in your sightLead us safe to the light. Saint of youth, we come to youBring us close to God’s embraceKeep us in his graceThat in the end of daysWe may see his loving face



Beginning

Leader: In the name of the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit.R. Amen.

Leader: The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, crown of all the Saints, the love of God our Father and the communion of the Holy Spirit, be with us all.


Celebrations you can choose:1. For Children2. For Adolescents (1st and 2nd Year)3. For Youth (15 years old and up)4. For Adults5. For Salesians and Religious People6. Personal Veneration to the Relic


Children Meet Don BoscoLeader: We come together grateful to God for this opportunity to venerate his servant,

St. John Bosco who during his life gave all his time, energy and resources teaching, guiding and loving the young, especially those who were abandoned and uncared for.

We come in homage to St. John Bosco. We also come with our prayers, asking him to bring our intentions to God.

A Reading from the Life of Saint John BoscoThe Young Acrobat (Excerpt Adapted from “The Memoirs of the Oratory” by St. John Bosco)

When I was ten years old, I did what was possible at my age and formed a kind of festive oratory. An oratory is a place where young people could play and pray at the proper time. It is also a place where they could learn.

Though I was still pretty small, I tried always to help and never to hurt. So my companions were quite fond of me. I would take their side when quarrels broke out. Though I was not very big, I was strong and brave enough to stand up even to older companions. Whenever arguments, questions, or quarrels of any kind arose, I acted as arbiter, and everyone accepted my decisions with good grace.

But it was to hear my stories that they flocked round me. In the wintertime, everyone wanted me in the stable to tell stories. I would stand on a bench so that all could hear and see.

When the weather was fine, especially on Sundays and feast days, a few strangers would come along to swell the ranks. Things were getting a bit more serious now. The entertainment now extended to tricks I had picked up from acrobats and magicians I had watched in the marketplace and at fairs. I used to watch them closely to get the hang of the tricks, then go home and practise till I had mastered the skill. You can imagine all the falls and tumbles and bumps and crashes I was always having! But would you believe that by the time I was eleven I could juggle, do midair somersaults and the swallow trick, and walk on my hands. I could walk, jump, and even dance on the tightrope like a professional acrobat.

When I had everything set up and everyone was eager to marvel at my latest feats, I would invite

them to recite the rosary and sing a hymn. Then standing on the chair, I preached to them or, better, repeated as much as I could remember from the explanation of the gospel I had heard in church that morning; or sometimes I recalled episodes from something I had heard or read. After the sermon there was a short prayer, and then the show began. At that point you would have seen, just as I am telling you, the preacher transformed into a professional acrobat.

I did the swallow trick and somersaults, walked on my hands, got myself out of a tied sack, swallowed coins and then produced them from someone's nose. I multiplied balls and eggs, changed water into wine, killed and chopped up a chicken and then brought it back to life again so that it crowed better than before. These were part of my stock in trade. I walked the tightrope like an ordinary path, jumped and danced on it, and hung by one foot or one hand, sometimes by two.

This went on for several hours. At the end of it I was tired. A short prayer brought proceedings to a close, and everyone went about his business. Those who cursed or engaged in bad talk or refused to join in the prayers were not allowed to watch the show.

Now you might ask me, Did my mother mind my wasting my time playing magician? I assure you that my mother loved me dearly, and I had boundless trust in her. I would not take one step without her approval. She knew everything, saw everything, and let me do it. Indeed, if I needed something, she willingly came to my help. My companions and generally all the spectators gladly gave me what was necessary to provide them with those amusements.


Homily

Symbolic Offerings/ Commitment Signs (Sample)Design a symbolic offering for kids. Something like the sample here.

Some youngsters bring a vase containing earth and a container with seeds in front of the Urn. The priest then says these or similar words. The sign could be altered according to the circumstances.

Dear young friends, you have heard how St John Bosco, from his childhood, put his life at the disposition of others for love of the Lord. To do everything that Jesus asked of him, he made many sacrifices and his efforts brought many good results. We could say that St. John Bosco was consumed with love for others.

These seeds too, in order to grow and bear fruit have to be sacrificed: in fact they have to die in the ground in order to become a plant.We also wish to live for others like young John Bosco, and to help us to keep our commitment we become seeds.

One at a time we will plant our little seed in the ground to remind us that to grow and bear fruits of love we need to act courageously and be ready to make sacrifices.May St John Bosco help us to love the Lord.

While the youngsters line up to seeds, there can be a suitable hymn.

Other Options would be:a) They offer in a vase a commitment they have written in a piece of paperb) A flower that symbolizes a virtue they want to receive and live

Prayer to St. John BoscoO Saint John Bosco, father and teacher of youth, who labored so much for the salvation of souls, be our guide in seeking the good of our souls and the salvation of our neighbor; help us to be mindful of all our actions and to practice daily our faith; teach us to love Jesus in the Blessed Sacrament, Mary Help of Christians and our Holy Father the Pope. And obtain for us the grace of living and dying as friends of God so that we may all be gathered together with you in heaven. Amen.

Prayer for One’s ParentsO Saint John Bosco, having lost your father at such a tender age, you experienced the difficulties of being raised by a single parent, yet your home was always filled with love and discipline, of virtue and faith. Through your intercession, bless my parents. May God continue to instill in them a sacrificial devotion to our family, a flaming zeal in witnessing unconditional love towards each other and their children. Bless their work. Make their efforts bear fruit and their plans meet success. Protect them from harm and let them be concerned with living a healthy lifestyle both in body and spirit. When they reach the sunset of their lives, teach them to grow old in grace and wisdom. Let them have faith in the love their children have for them. Sustain and strengthen them in their weak moments. May all that they do give glory to You. Amen.

Prayer for Choosing FriendsO Saint John Bosco, you have always offered a warm and welcoming friendship to those you meet. Let your warmth and quiet discernment be with me when choosing my friends. Grant me the grace to find good peers who can be positive and joyful influences in my life and that I be the same in theirs. May my youth be blessed with wholesome fun and adventure, knowledge and learning, joys and successes, challenges and trials in the company of friends who are bound by true friendship and goodness. Amen.


The Lord's Prayer Follows Our Father

Prayer of BlessingLeader: O God source of all grace and holiness,

look with love on these children who have prayed at the relics of St John Bosco, friend and heir of Christ, faithful witness to the Gospel: may we experience the effectiveness of his intercession at the throne of your glory,so that we too may becomefriends of the Lord and bear fruits of love.through Christ our Lord.

R. Amen.

Conclusion Leader: O God, glory and joy of your faithful servants,

who in St John Boscogave us a sign of your love, let your face shine on us,Through Christ our Lord

R. Amen.

Leader: May the intercession of St John Bosco help you to be good and cheerful. May his example urge you to cultivate friendship with Jesus and Mary,to serve God and your brothers and sisters in love.

R. Amen.

Leader: In the name of the Father....

Hymn in honour of St John Bosco


Adolescents (1st & 2nd Year) Meet Don BoscoLeader: We come together grateful to God for this opportunity to venerate his servant,

St. John Bosco who during his life gave all his time, energy and resources teaching, guiding and loving the young, especially those who were abandoned and uncared for.

We come in homage to St. John Bosco. We also come with our prayers, asking him to bring our intentions to God, especially our

prayers for enlightenment, protection and guidance.

A Reading From The Life Of Saint John Bosco(Excerpts from “The Memoirs of the Oratory” – First Communion, Fr. Calosso, Studies) I was eleven years old when I made my first holy com-

munion. I knew my catechism well. The minimum age for first communion was twelve years. My mother had to do almost all the religious instruction. She did not want me to get any older before my admission to that great act of our religion, so she took upon herself the task of preparing me as best she could. She sent me to catechism class every day. My mother coached me for days and brought me to confession three times during that Lent.

"My dear John," she would say, "God is going to give you a wonderful gift. Make sure you prepare well for it. Go to confession and don't keep anything back. Tell all your sins to the priest, be sorry for them all, and promise God to do better in the future." I promised all that. God alone knows whether I have been faithful to my resolution.

At home, she saw to it that I said my prayers and read good books; and she always came up with the advice which a diligent mother knows how to give her children.

On the morning of my first communion, my mother did not permit me to speak to anyone. She accompanied me to the altar and together we made our preparation and thanksgiving. It was my mother's wish for that day that I should refrain from manual work. Instead, she kept me occupied reading and praying. Amongst the many things that my mother repeated to me many times was this: "My dear son, this is a great day for you. I am convinced that God has really taken possession of your heart. Now promise him to be good as long as you live. Go to communion frequently in the future, but beware of sacrilege. Always be frank in confession, be obedient always, go willingly to catechism and sermons. But for the love of God, avoid like the plague those who indulge in bad talk."

I treasured my mother's advice and tried to carry it out. I think that from that day on there was some

improvement in my life, especially in matters of obedience and submission to others. It was not easy for me to be submissive because I liked to do things my way and follow my own childish whims rather than listen to those who gave me advice or told me what to do.

One thing that was a source of concern to me was that there was no church or chapel where I could sing and pray with my companions. To hear a sermon or attend a catechism lesson meant a round trip of 9 kilometers.

On one April evening, as I was making my way home after listening to a sermon by a missionary, one of those who walked along with us was Fr Calosso of Chieri, a very devout priest. Although he was old and bent, he made the long walk to hear the missionary. He looked me over and then began to talk with me.

It was my first conversation with a priest. To him, I expressed my desire to study and become a priest. We were too poor. And my mother could not afford to put me in school. This priest said, "Cheer up now. I'll keep you and your schooling in mind. Come to see me on Sunday with your mother. We'll arrange something."

He became my teacher and my regular spiritual director, a faithful friend of one's soul.

Amongst other things he forbade a penance I used to practise; he deemed it unsuited to my age and circumstances. He encouraged frequent confession and communion. He taught me how to make a short daily meditation, or more accurately, a spiritual read-ing. I spent all the time I could with him; I stayed with him on feast days. I went to serve his Mass during the week when I could. From then on I began to savour the spiritual life; up to then I had acted in a purely mechanical way, not knowing the reasons.

Homily

Symbolic Offerings/ Commitment Signs (Sample)

Liturgy & Para-liturgies 23

Some youngsters bring a vase containing earth and a container with seeds in front of the Urn. The priest then says these or similar words. The sign could be altered according to the circumstances.

Dear young friends, you have heard how St John Bosco, from his childhood, put his life at the disposition of others for love of the Lord. To do everything that Jesus asked of him, he made many sacrifices and his efforts brought many good results. We could say that St. John Bosco was consumed with love for others.

These seeds too, in order to grow and bear fruit have to be sacrificed: in fact they have to die in the ground in order to become a plant.We also wish to live for others like young John Bosco, and to help us to keep our commitment we become seeds.

One at a time we will plant our little seed in the ground to remind us that to grow and bear fruits of love we need to act courageously and be ready to make sacrifices.

May St John Bosco help us to love the Lord.

While the youngsters line up to seeds, there can be a suitable hymn.

Other Options would be:a) They offer in a vase a commitment they have written in a piece of paperb) A flower that symbolizes a virtue they want to receive and live

Leader: Prayer to St. John BoscoAll: In need of special help, we appeal with confidence to you, Saint John Bosco, for

we require not only spiritual graces, but also temporal ones, and particularly... (pause for personal intentions)

May you, who on earth had such great devotion to Jesus in the Blessed Sacrament and to Mary Help of Christians, and who always had compassion for those who were suffering, obtain from Jesus and His Heavenly Mother the grace we now request, and also a sincere resignation to the Will of God.

(Recite the Our Father, Hail Mary, and Glory Be)

Leader: St. John Bosco, friend of souls, to you we recommend the salvation of our souls. Your heart was always full of love for all human needs. We pray, implore for us from God the graces we seek.

All: Our Father… Hail Mary… Glory be…

Leader: Litany in honor of St. John BoscoLord, have mercy on us… Lord, have mercy on us.Christ, have mercy on us… Christ, have mercy on us.Lord, have mercy on us… Lord, 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… Pray for us.Mother Mary, help of Christians… Pray for us.


Response: Pray for us.St. John Bosco, father of the youth…St. John Bosco, champion of the Eucharist…St. John Bosco, tireless apostle of reconciliationSt. John Bosco, obedient to the plan of God…St. John Bosco, obedient to the authority of the Church…St. John Bosco, devoted son of Mary…St. John Bosco, promoter of unity in times of division…St. John Bosco, educator of faith and morals…St. John Bosco, role model to youth…St. John Bosco, consoler of the poor and the ordinary…St. John Bosco, champion of vocations…St. John Bosco, friend of apprentices and young laborers…St. John Bosco, friend of struggling youth…St. John Bosco, guide of the young in conflict with the law…St. John Bosco, creative inspiration of catechists…St. John Bosco, patron of Catholic editors…St. John Bosco, patron of school children and students…St. John Bosco, inspiration of writers…St. John Bosco, defender of the least, the last and the lost…

Lamb of God, who takes away the sins of the worl, 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 worl, Have mercy on us.

Conclusion / Prayer Of BlessingLeader: O God source of all grace and holiness,


R. Amen.

Leader: St. John Bosco,All: Pray for us.Leader: Mary, help of Christians…All: Pray for us.

In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen

Hymn in honour of St John BoscoYoung People Meet Don BoscoLeader: We gather together grateful to God for this opportunity to venerate his

servant, St. John Bosco who during his life time offered all his giftedness,


energy and resources to guide and teach the young, especially those who were abandoned and uncared for.

We come in homage to St. John Bosco. We also come with our prayers, asking him to bring our intentions to God – enlightenment to pursue a life that is meaningful, strength to avoid what is wrong and do good joyfully, and consistency in being good influence to others.

A Reading From The Life Of Saint John Bosco (by Teresio Bosco)DEATH IN THE STREET OF TURIN

July 1854. Frightening news ran through Turin. Cholera had struck and was spreading. A month later, Turin looked like a dead city. Hundreds were dying in their homes or in hospitals. All those who could, fled the city.

That evening Don Bosco spoke to the big boys of the Oratory: “The Mayor has launched an appeal. If any of you feel like coming with me to the hospitals and private houses to care for those struck down by the cholera, we would be doing a fine thing and something very pleasing to the Lord. I guarantee that, provided you remain in the state of grace, and do not commit any mortal sins, not one of you will be touched by the cholera.”

That very evening, fourteen of his bigger boys handed in their names. A few days later, another thirty followed their example.

They were days of intense work. Those struck by the sickness needed help, especially in the first hours. They needed massage to help the circulation of the blood and to provoke sweating.

For more than a month the 44 boys had no set timetable by day or night. And Don Bosco gave the example; always ready to help, to comfort, to administer the last sacraments. Among these boys was John Cagliero, the future bishop and Salesian cardinal. There was also Dominic Savio, the young saint from Mondonio, and it was just during these days he showed a glimpse of his sanctity.

Walking along a street one evening, Dominic looked up at a window and, as if a voice was calling him, entered the house and quickly ran up the stairs. Without a moment’s hesitation, he knocked at the door. The owner came out.

“Excuse me”, Dominic said, “there must be someone here who has been hit by the cholera and needs help.” The poor man stared: “No, no, there’s no-one

here. If there was I wouldn’t be here, for sure.” “Are you sure?” the owner asked.“Definitely, ” said Dominic.

“Then I think you have made a mistake. Let me have a look.” The master of the house knew that no-one, thanks be to God, was sick. But that lad was so insistent that it seemed... “Alright. Come in and have a look. But you’ll find out you are mistaken.”

Dominic went through the rooms, the kitchen, the storeroom. Nothing. “But have you got any other rooms? An Attic?”

“Ah” and the master struck his forehead, “the lumber room! Come on!” They climbed up to the attic and came to a miserable room. Curled up in a corner her face contracted with grief, a poor woman was dying. “Hurry, call a priest!” whispered Dominic. And he set about doing his duties as a nurse.

“How could the boy know that?” the poor man repeated to himself as he hurried down to get a priest. He just remembered that this poor woman, who went early to work each day, had returned late at night, had asked some time ago if she could sleep in the attic. He had forgotten all about her.

The priest came and was able to give the poor dying woman the last sacraments.

In a corner, his hat in his hand, the owner of the house scratched his head and continued asking: “How in the world did that lad know about her?”

Then the cold of the autumn and winter came: the cases of cholera declined, then stopped altogether. Don Bosco’s boys, healthy and happy, were able to return to their studies and trades. From the outside, these boys who people at first thought were good for nothing, now looked transformed. But what was more amazing was how they had become so ready to serve and help those in need.

Homily (Theme: Using our Youthful creativity and energy to do good and live with purpose)

Symbolic Offerings/ Commitment Signs (Sample)


A period of silence could be given for reflection and prayer, at the end of which young people could write in a piece of paper statement of commitment to: (1) become good influence to youth; (2) do some youth work; (3) renounce habits & activities that waste God-given gifts to youth. They later drop the papers in a vase near the casket. The leader/ priest could introduce this activity by saying:

Dear young friends, you have heard how St John Bosco, challenged the young people of his time to put their gifts, in fact their very life at the disposition of others for love of the Lord.

Through the intercession of John Bosco, let us commit ourselves to using our life’s blessings to bring God’s love to others.

One by one, young people drop their commitment statements. As they do so, there can be a suitable hymn.


we require not only spiritual graces, but also temporal ones, and particularly...

(pause for personal intentions)





Leader: Litany in honor of St. John BoscoLord, have mercy on us… Lord, have mercy on us.Christ, have mercy on us… Christ, have mercy on us.Lord, have mercy on us… Lord, have mercy on us.God the Son, Redeemer of the World… Pray for us.God the Holy Spirit… Have Mercy on us.Holy Trinity, one God… Have Mercy on us.Mother Mary, help of Christians… Pray for us.

Response: Pray for us.St. John Bosco, father of the youth…St. John Bosco, champion of the Eucharist…St. John Bosco, tireless apostle of reconciliationSt. John Bosco, obedient to the plan of God…St. John Bosco, obedient to the authority of the Church…St. John Bosco, devoted son of Mary…


St. John Bosco, promoter of unity in times of division…St. John Bosco, educator of faith and morals…St. John Bosco, role model to youth…St. John Bosco, consoler of the poor and the ordinary…St. John Bosco, champion of vocations…St. John Bosco, friend of apprentices and young laborers…St. John Bosco, friend of struggling youth…St. John Bosco, guide of the young in conflict with the law…St. John Bosco, creative inspiration of catechists…St. John Bosco, patron of Catholic editors…St. John Bosco, patron of school children and students…St. John Bosco, inspiration of writers…St. John Bosco, defender of the least, the last and the lost…

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 worl, Have mercy on us.

Conclusion / Prayer of BlessingLeader: O God source of all grace and holiness,


R. Amen.



Hymn in honour of St John Bosco or quiet time for one last short prayer, before exiting.

The Adults Meet Don BoscoLeader: We gather together grateful to God for this opportunity to venerate his

servant, St. John Bosco who during his life gave all his time, energy and


resources teaching, guiding and loving the young, especially those who were abandoned and uncared for.

In homage to St. John Bosco, we recall his life and virtues. We also come with our prayers, asking him to bring our intentions to God as we pray for ourselves, our children and the young entrusted to our care.

A Reading From The Life Of Saint John Bosco (from the Memoirs of the Oratory)Mama Margaret Moves In With Don Bosco It took me several months of rest at home to recover from over fatigue that almost ended my life. I felt I could return to my beloved youngsters. Every day many of them were coming to see me or were writing to me, urging me to come back to them soon. But where could I find lodging? I had been sent away from the place where I used to gather them. What means did I have to keep my work going -- the work that was daily becoming more demanding and expensive? How was I to support myself and the persons who were indispensable to me? At that time, two rooms fell vacant in the Pinardi house, and these were rented as a dwelling for me and my mother. "Mother," I said to her one day, "I should take up residence in the Pinardi but considering the people who live in that house, I can't take anyone with me but you." She knew what I was hinting at and replied straight-away, "If you think such a move is God's will, I'm ready to go right now." My mother made a great sacrifice. At home, even though we were not well off, she was in charge of everything, everyone loved her, and to young and old she was a queen. My mother filled a basket with linen and other things we would need. I took my breviary, a missal, and some of the more important books. This was our entire fortune. On foot, we set towards Turin. When my mother laid eyes on those barren rooms, she said jokingly, "At home I had so many worries about ad-ministration and direction. Here I’ll be much more at ease: I have nothing to manage, nobody to command." But how were we to live? What were we to eat? How could we pay the rent and supply the needs of the many children who constantly asked for bread, shoes,

clothes, or shirts, which they needed to go to work? From home we had brought some wine, millet, beans, grain, and so forth. To meet initial expenses, I had sold part of a field and a vineyard. My mother sent for her wedding gown, which up to then she had jealously preserved intact. From some of her dresses we made chasubles; from the linen we made, amices, purificators, surplices, albs, and towels for use in the celebration of the Holy Mass. Everything passed through the hands of my mother who since then has helped look after the needs of the house which we began calling “oratory.” My mother also had a little gold necklace and her wedding ring. They were quickly sold to buy braid and trimmings for the sacred vestments. My mother was always in good humour. One evening, she laughingly sang to me: “Woe to the world if it should learn we're just penniless strangers!” When our domestic affairs were somewhat organised, I rented another room, which was intended for a sacristy. As we lacked classrooms, for the time being we had to use the kitchen or my room. But the students— prime little rascals — either destroyed everything or put everything topsy-turvy. When we started, some classes met in the sacristy, in the attic, or in other parts of the church. But the noise, the singing, the coming and going of one group disturbed whatever the other groups were trying to do. After a few months, we were to rent two other rooms and so organise our night classes better. As was said above, during the winter of 1846-7 we got excellent scholastic results. Every evening we had an average of three hundred pupils. In addition to the academic side, the classes were animated by plainchant and vocal music, which we have always cultivated.

Homily (Theme: Re-inventing our life and directing our giftedness in the service of God and others)

Symbolic Offerings/ Commitment Signs (Sample)A period of silence could be given for reflection and prayer, at the end of which the following options could be taken:


(1) Devotees write in a piece of paper statement of commitment to: (a) become good influence to youth; (b) do some youth work. They later drop the papers in a vase near the casket. The leader/ priest could introduce this activity by saying: ”Dear young friends, you have heard how St John Bosco, challenged the young people of his time to put their gifts, in fact their very life at the disposition of others for love of the Lord. Through the intercession of John Bosco, let us commit ourselves to using our life’s blessings to bring God’s love to others.”One by one, they drop their commitment statements. As they do so, there can be a suitable hymn.

(2) They do a spontaneous prayer of the faithful


we require not only spiritual graces, but also temporal ones, and particularly...





Leader: Prayer for One's ChildrenAll: O Saint John Bosco, you called the young people entrusted to you "my children". Even as a

newly ordained priest, you know the deep longings of a parent’s heart when you referred to a Gospel message in your first sermon that parents only want good for their children. I beseech you to intercede for our children and all the young people under our care. May they grow up knowing, loving, and seeking God in the ordinary circumstances of their lives, in their dreams and aspirations, and in every person they relate with everyday. Amen.

Leader: Prayer for Health and Well-beingAll: O Saint John Bosco, you gave the last stretch of your human strength to the tasks that God asked

you to do. You gave your utmost in your work for young people. But you heeded the advice to rest and regain strength when your health was challenged. You believed that a well-rested worker is a happy and productive worker able to generate more good results. I beg for your intercession to keep me aware of the importance of health and well-being in my service to You, my family, my work, and my community. Carry my petitions to God that He grants me the strength necessary to fulfill His will for me. Amen.


Leader: Litany in honor of St. John BoscoLord, have mercy on us… Lord, have mercy on us.Christ, have mercy on us… Christ, have mercy on us.Lord, have mercy on us… Lord, have mercy on us.


God the Son, Redeemer of the World… Pray for us.God the Holy Spirit… Have Mercy on us.Holy Trinity, one God… Have Mercy on us.Mother Mary, help of Christians… Pray 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.

Conclusion / Prayer of BlessingLeader: O God source of all grace and holiness, look with love on these children

who have prayed at the relics of St John Bosco, friend and heir of Christ, faithful witness to the Gospel; may we experience the effectiveness of his intercession at the throne of your glory, so that we too may becomefriends of the Lord and bear fruits of love, through Christ our Lord.

R. Amen.



Hymn in honour of St John Bosco or quiet time for one last short prayer, before exiting. The Salesian Family / Community Meet Don BoscoLeader: We gather together grateful to God for this opportunity to venerate our

founder St. John Bosco who during his life gave all his time, energy and resources teaching, guiding and loving the young, especially those who were abandoned and uncared for.


In homage to St. John Bosco, we recall his life and virtues. We also come with our prayers, asking him to bring our intentions to God as we pray for the renewal of our response to our Salesian vocation.

A Reading from the Life of Saint John Bosco (from the Memoirs of the Oratory)Religious Celebrations (Chapter 49) The dangers to which youngsters were exposed in matters of religion and morality called for greater efforts to safeguard them. In the night school, as well as in the day program, we thought it would be good to add courses in piano, organ, and even instrumental music to those in vocal music. So I found myself as teacher of vocal and instrumental music, of piano and organ, though I had never truly been a student of them myself. Goodwill made up for everything. Having prepared a group of the best soprano voices, we began to give recitals at the Oratory, afterwards we ventured into the outside. We sought help from experts who were willing helpers in training our musicians, accompanying them, and conducting them at their public performances in various towns. Since choirs of boy sopranos with orchestral accompaniment had not often been heard up till then, and our solos, duets, and full choral renderings were so novel, our music was spoken of everywhere and our singers were much sought after for various solemn occasions. Every year we used to go to perform at a religious func-tion at the Church of Our Lady of Consolation. This year we marched in procession from the Oratory. The singing along the way and the music in church drew a numberless crowd of people. Mass was celebrated, holy communion received, and then I gave a short sermon suited to the occasion in tine underground chapel. In this way we began to gain respect. We gathered youngsters, and we had opportunities to inculcate with the greatest prudence a spirit of morality and respect for authority and to encourage frequent reception of the holy sacraments. But such novelty gave rise to rumours. In this year, too, the city of Turin sent inspectors to assess the vague reports that were being put about.

They were highly satisfied with us. When their report was sent in an award of 1000 francs was decreed, and a very flattering letter. From that year the city assigned an annual subsidy that was paid until 1878.

The Schools for the Poor also sent inspectors to visit us. That work had also introduced night schools and music schools, using our method. As a mark of their approval, they gave us another award of a thousand francs. Every year on Holy Thursday, we used to go together to visit the altars of repose. But because of the ridicule —we would even say contempt — not a few of the boys no longer dared to join their companions. To encourage our young men ever more to overcome other people’s bad judgment, in that year for the first time we marched in procession to make those visits, singing the Stabat Mater and chanting the Miserere. Then youngsters of every age and condition were seen joining us along the route and racing to join our lines. Everything went off in a peaceful and orderly fashion. That evening was the first time that we performed the ceremony of the washing of the feet. For this purpose twelve youngsters were chosen, who are usually called the twelve apostles. When the ritual washing was finished, a moral exhortation was preached to the public. Afterwards the twelve apostles were all invited for a frugal supper, and each one was given a small gift which he proudly carried home.

Likewise in that year the stations of the cross were erected according to the prescriptions of the Church and solemnly blessed.16 At each station there was a brief little sermon, and an appropriate motet was sung. In such ways our humble Oratory continued to consoli-date at the same time that important events were running their course.

Reading: Phil 4, 4-9

Rejoice in the Lord always. I shall say it again: rejoice! Your kindness should be known to all. The Lord is near. Have no anxiety at all, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, make your requests known to God. Then the peace of God that surpasses all understanding will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.


Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is gracious, if there is any excellence and if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things. Keep on doing what you have learned and received and heard and seen in me. Then the God of peace will be with you.

Homily

Symbolic Offerings/ Commitment Signs (Sample)A period of silence could be given for reflection and prayer, at the end of which the following options could be taken:

(1) Devotees write in a piece of paper statement of commitment to: (a) become good influence to youth; (b) do some youth work. They later drop the papers in a vase near the casket. The leader/ priest could introduce this activity by saying: ”Dear young friends, you have heard how St John Bosco, challenged the young people of his time to put their gifts, in fact their very life at the disposition of others for love of the Lord. Through the intercession of John Bosco, let us commit ourselves to using our life’s blessings to bring God’s love to others.”

One by one, they drop their commitment statements. As they do so, there can be a suitable hymn.

(2) They do a spontaneous prayer of the faithful


we require not only spiritual graces, but also temporal ones, and particularly... (pause for personal intentions)



Leader: Prayer of the Salesian Family and Lay Partners of St. John BoscoAll: O Saint John Bosco, father and teacher of youth, who, docile to the gifts of the

Spirit, passed on to the Salesian Family the wealth of your predilection for the humble and the poor. Teach us, to become each day, for them signs and bearers of the love of God, cultivating in our soul the same sentiments of Christ, the Good Shepherd. Grant to all the members of your Family a good he art, tenacity of work, wisdom in discernment, courage to witness, a sense of Church, and missionary generosity. Obtain for us the grace of fidelity to the special covenant which the Lord has established with us. And grant that, guided by Mary, we may joyfully journey with the young along the way that leads to love. Amen.



Leader: Litany in honor of St. John BoscoLord, have mercy on us… Lord, have mercy on us.


Christ, have mercy on us… Christ, have mercy on us.Lord, have mercy on us… Lord, have mercy on us.God the Son, Redeemer of the World… Pray for us.God the Holy Spirit… Have Mercy on us.Holy Trinity, one God… Have Mercy on us.Mother Mary, help of Christians… Pray 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.

Conclusion / Prayer of BlessingLeader: O God source of all grace and holiness, look with love on these children who

have prayed at the relics of St John Bosco, friend and heir of Christ, faithful witness to the Gospel; may we experience the effectiveness of his intercession at the throne of your glory, so that we too may become friends of the Lord and bear fruits of love ,through Christ our Lord.

R. Amen.Leader: St. John Bosco,All: Pray for us.Leader: Mary, help of Christians…All: Pray for us.

In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. AmenHymn in honour of St John Bosco or quiet time for one last short prayer, before exiting. PERSONAL PRAYER / NOVENA PRAYER TO ST. JOHN BOSCO


Prayer to St. John BoscoIn need of special help, I appeal with confidence to you, Saint John Bosco, for I require not only spiritual graces, but also temporal ones, and particularly...



May you, who on earth had such great devotion to Jesus in the Blessed Sacrament and to Mary Help of Christians, and who always had compassion for those who were suffering, obtain from Jesus and His Heavenly Mother the grace I now request, and also a sincere resignation to the Will of God.

Prayer for Health and Well-beingO Saint John Bosco, you gave the last stretch of your human strength to the tasks that God asked you to do. You gave your utmost in your work for young people. But you heeded the advice to rest and regain strength when your health was challenged. You believed that a well-rested worker is a happy and productive worker able to generate more good results. I beg for your intercession to keep me aware of the importance of health and well-being in my service to You, my family, my work, and my community. Carry my petitions to God that He grants me the strength necessary to fulfill His will for me. Amen.

Prayer for Guidance in Decision-makingMy Lord Jesus, I beg you for the grace of a receptive heart so that I may learn to be ever sensitive and open to the Spirit’s presence and guidance in my life. I beg you, dear Lord, for clarity of mind so that I can behold myself, my situations in the present world with new eyes and, in the end, follow the Spirit’s urgings and act accordingly. I beseech You to help me work with and be in touch with my feelings, my consolations and desolations and their patterns in my life, knowing that it is here in the depths of my affectivity that God speaks to me most intimately. My Lord Jesus, I beg You, through the intercession of Saint John Bosco, for the grace of discerning love and docility to Your Spirit, so that I can truly seek, find and do God’s will in my life. Amen.

Prayer for Growth in FaithAlmighty God and Father, breathe your Spirit into my soul. Open my mind, that you may fill it with truth, knowledge and wisdom.Open my eyes, that I may see you each day of my life.Open my ears, that I may hear you speak to me.Open my mouth, that I may proclaim your works and praise you.Open my heart, that you may fill it with your love, mercy and forgiveness.Open my hands, that I may do your work on this earth.Guide my feet, that I may go where you lead me.O St. John Bosco, be my light as I journey on this earth and do God’s will.Amen.

(Other prayers in the Salesian Prayer booklet can be prayed)

St. John Bosco, friend of souls, to you I recommend the salvation of my soul. Your heart was always full of love for all human needs. I pray, implore for me from God the graces I seek.

Our Father… Hail Mary… Glory be…

Litany in honor of St. John Bosco:


Lord, have mercy on us… Lord, have mercy on us.Christ, have mercy on us… Christ, have mercy on us.Lord, have mercy on us… Lord, have mercy on us.God the Son, Redeemer of the World… Pray for us.God the Holy Spirit… Have Mercy on us.Holy Trinity, one God… Have Mercy on us.Mother Mary, help of Christians… Pray for us.

Response: Pray for us.St. John Bosco, father of the youth…St. John Bosco, champion of the Eucharist…St. John Bosco, tireless apostle of reconciliation…St. John Bosco, obedient to the plan of God…St. John Bosco, obedient to the authority of the Church…St. John Bosco, devoted son of Mary…St. John Bosco, promoter of unity in times of division…St. John Bosco, educator of faith and morals…St. John Bosco, role model to youth..St. John Bosco, consoler of the poor and the ordinary…St. John Bosco, champion of vocations…St. John Bosco, friend of apprentices and young laborers…St. John Bosco, friend of struggling youth…St. John Bosco, guide of the young in conflict with the law…St. John Bosco, creative inspiration of catechists…St. John Bosco, patron of Catholic editors…St. John Bosco, patron of school children and students…St. John Bosco, inspiration of writers…St. John Bosco, defender of the least, the last and the lost…

Lamb of God, who takes away the sins of the worl, Spare us, O Lord.Lamb of God, who takes away the sins of the worl, Graciously hear us, O Lord.Lamb of God, who takes away the sins of the worl, Have mercy on us.

(Short pause)

St. John Bosco, pray for usMary, help of Christians, pray for us. In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen

THE HOLY MASS IN HONOR OF ST. JOHN BOSCO

Entrance AntiphonGod gave him wisdom and understandingand a heart as vast as the sand on the seashore.

Or:

Come, children , and hear me:


that I may teach you the fear of the Lord.Look towards him and be radiant.

The ‘Gloria’ is said.

Opening prayerLord our God,In your providence you have given us Saint John Bosco,the father and teacher of youth,who under the guidance of the Virgin Maryworked with untiring zealfor the good of the Church;inspire us with that same apostolic charity,to seek the salvation of our neighbourand so serve you, the one and only good.

We ask this through our Lord Jesus Christ your Son,who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit,one God, for ever and ever.

1st Reading: A Reading from the Book of Ezekiel(Ezek 34, 11-12.15-16.23-24.30-31)

For thus says the Lord GOD: I myself will look after and tend my sheep. As a shepherd tends his flock when he finds himself among his scattered sheep, so will I tend my sheep. I will rescue them from every place where they were scattered when it was cloudy and dark. I myself will pasture my sheep; I myself will give them rest, says the Lord GOD. The lost I will seek out, the strayed I will bring back, the injured I will bind up, the sick I will heal (but the sleek and the strong I will destroy), shepherding them rightly.

I will appoint one shepherd over them to pasture them, my servant David; he shall pasture them and be their shepherd. I, the LORD, will be their God, and my servant David shall be prince among them. I, the LORD, have spoken. Thus they shall know that I, the LORD, am their God, and they are my people, the house of Israel, says the Lord GOD. (You, my sheep, you are the sheep of my pasture, and I am your God, says the Lord GOD.)

The Word of the Lord. Thanks be to God.

Responsorial Psalm(Ps 31:20, 21, 22, 23, 24)R. Blessed be the Lord, the glory of his SaintsHow great is the goodness, O LORD, which you have in store for those who fear you,And which, toward those who take refuge in you, you show in the sight of the children of men.R. Blessed be the Lord, the glory of his Saints


You hide them in the shelter of your presence from the plottings of men;You screen them within your abode from the strife of tongues.R. Blessed be the Lord, the glory of his Saints

Blessed be the LORD whose wondrous mercy he has shown me in a fortified city. R. Blessed be the Lord, the glory of his Saints

Once I said in my anguish, “I am cut off from your sight”;Yet you heard the sound of my pleading when I cried out to you.R. Blessed be the Lord, the glory of his Saints

Love the LORD, all you his faithful ones!The LORD keeps those who are constant, but more than requites those who act proudly.R. Blessed be the Lord, the glory of his Saints

2nd Reading:A Reading from the Letter of Paul to the Philipians(Phil 4, 4-9)Rejoice in the Lord always. I shall say it again: rejoice! Your kindness should be known to all. The Lord is near. Have no anxiety at all, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, make your requests known to God. Then the peace of God that surpasses all understanding will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.

Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is gracious, if there is any excellence and if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things. Keep on doing what you have learned and received and heard and seen in me. Then the God of peace will be with you.

The Word of the Lord.Thanks be to God

Gospel: Mt 18, 16.10At that time the disciples approached Jesus and said, "Who is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven? "He called a child over, placed it in their midst, and said, "Amen, I say to you, unless you turn and become like children, you will not enter the kingdom of heaven. Whoever humbles himself like this child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven. And whoever receives one child such as this in my name receives me.

"Whoever causes one of these little ones who believe in me to sin, it would be better for him to have a great millstone hung around his neck and to be drowned in the depths of the sea. "See that you do not despise one of these little ones, for I say to you that their angels in heaven always look upon the face of my heavenly Father.

The Gospel of the Lord.Praise to you O Lord, Jesus Christ. Prayer over the giftsAccept, holy Father,The sacrifice we offer youwith sincere devotion;grant that we may love you above all else,so that our whole lifemay be a hymn to your glory.


We ask this through Christ our Lord.

PrefaceSaint John Bosco, a gift of God to the Church

V. The Lord be with youR. And also with you.

V. Lift up your hearts.R. We lift them up to the Lord.

V. Let us give thanks to the Lord our God.R. It is right to give him thanks and praise.

Father, all-powerful and ever-living God,we do well always and everywhere to give you thanksthrough Jesus Christ our Lord.

Father of eternal love you have raised up Saint John Bosco in the Churchas the father, brother and friend of the young,to lead them along the way of salvation.

With a prophetic vision of new times to come,he prepared them to face up to lifewith honesty, integrity and active faith.

Under the impulse of your Spirit,he brought into being a great Familyto continue throughout the worldhis mission of father and teacher.

And we, gathered together in festive assembly,raise up to you, Father,our hymn of adoration and praise,as together with the angels and saints in heavenwe proclaim your glory saying (singing):

Holy, holy, holy Lord, God of power amd might,heaven and earth are full of youir glory.Hosannah in the highest.Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord.Hosannah in the highest.

Communion antiphon

Anyone who welcomes one little child like this in my nameWelcomes me, says the Lord.

Or:


This is my commandment:Love one another as I have loved you.

Prayer after communionFather, you have nourished uswith this sacrament of salvation;help us to imitate the tireless activity of Saint John Boscoin bringing young people to the love of Christ, your Son,the inexhaustible source of new life.

He lives and reigns forever and ever.

Solemn blessingMay the Lord who inspires every good intentionprotect you always by his graceand keep you faithful to your baptismal promises.

R. Amen.

May Christ, the Good Shepherd,enable you to serve with joy your brothers and sistersafter the example of our (your) holy Founder.

R. Amen.

May the Lord grant you,who have celebrated with joy the feast of Saint John Bosco,to walk always in faith, hope and love.

R. Amen.

And may the blessing of almighty God,

Father, Son + and Holy Spirit,Come down on you, and remain with you for ever.

R. Amen


visit of don bosco's relic: liturgies and para-liturgy

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