Lord Jesus Christ, You have destroyed the power of death and given the hope of eternal life in body and soul.

You granted your Mother a special place in your glory, and did not allow decay to touch her body.

As we rejoice in the Assumption of Mary, give to us a renewed confidence in the victory of life over death.

You live and reign forever and ever.

Amen

Day 9

O Blessed Mother Assumed into Heaven, after years of heroic martyrdom on earth, we rejoice that you have at last been taken to the throne prepared for you in Heaven by the Holy Trinity.

Lift our hearts with you in the glory of your Assumption above the dreadful touch of sin and impurity.

Teach us how small earth becomes when viewed from heaven. Make us realize that death is the triumphant gate through which we shall pass to your Son and that someday our bodies shall rejoin our souls in the unending bliss of heaven.

From this earth, over which we tread as pilgrims, we look to you for help.

In honor of your Assumption into Heaven we ask for this favor.

(mention your request)

When our hour of death has come, lead us safely to the presence of Jesus to enjoy the vision of God for all eternity together with you.

Pray for us O Queen Assumed into Heaven, that we may be made worthy of the promises of Christ.

Amen.

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From the writings of St. Teresa Benedicta of the Cross

One cannot desire freedom from the Cross when one is especially chosen for the Cross.*

Saint Teresa Benedicta of the Cross speaks to the acceptance of suffering as a necessary part of the Christian life. She suggests that such challenges, often seen as burdens, are opportunities for spiritual growth and deeper communion with Christ. Edith Stein’s acceptance of her own suffering, particularly during the Holocaust, serves as a powerful testament to this belief. Her willingness to embrace the cross, even unto death, illustrates a profound trust in God’s providence and the redemptive power of suffering.

One cannot desire freedom from the Cross when one is especially chosen for the Cross.*

How can you embrace your challenges and sufferings as a part of your spiritual journey and calling?

O my God, fill my soul with holy joy, courage and strength to serve You. Enkindle Your love in me and then walk with me along the next stretch of road before me. I do not see very far ahead, but when I have arrived where the horizon now closes down, a new prospect will open before me and I shall meet with peace

The post Day 9 – St. Teresa Benedicta of the Cross (Edith Stein) Novena for the Discerning Heart – Discerning Hearts Podcast appeared first on Discerning Hearts Catholic Podcasts.

Lord Jesus Christ, You have destroyed the power of death and given the hope of eternal life in body and soul.

You granted your Mother a special place in your glory, and did not allow decay to touch her body.

As we rejoice in the Assumption of Mary, give to us a renewed confidence in the victory of

You live and reign forever and ever.

Amen.

Day 2

Mary, Assumed into Heaven, we venerate you as the Queen of Heaven and earth. As you tasted the bitterness of pain and sorrow with your Son on earth, you now enjoy eternal bliss with Him in Heaven.

Loving Queen, intercede for us in our needs.

(mention your request)

We praise Jesus for giving us such a loving mother.

O Queen Assumed into Heaven, pray for us.

Amen.

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From the writings of St. Teresa Benedicta of the Cross

Our love of neighbour is the measure of our love of God. For Christians—and not only for them—no one is a ‘stranger’. The love of Christ knows no borders.*

Saint Teresa Benedicta of the Cross emphasizes the universal call to love, suggesting that our love for others reflects our love for God. This love transcends boundaries, reaching beyond personal preferences and prejudices to embrace all people. Edith Stein, through her writings and her life, including her solidarity with her Jewish heritage during the Holocaust, demonstrated an expansive and inclusive love rooted in God’s example. This perspective challenges us to practice inclusive and unconditional love, mirroring Christ’s boundless love for humanity.

Our love of neighbour is the measure of our love of God. For Christians—and not only for them—no one is a ‘stranger’. The love of Christ knows no borders.*

How can you expand your understanding of love to include all people, regardless of differences?

O my God, fill my soul with holy joy, courage and strength to serve You. Enkindle Your love in me and then walk with me along the next stretch of road before me. I do not see very far ahead, but when I have arrived where the horizon now closes down, a new prospect will open before me and I shall meet with peace

The post Day 8 – St. Teresa Benedicta of the Cross (Edith Stein) Novena for the Discerning Heart – Discerning Hearts Podcast appeared first on Discerning Hearts Catholic Podcasts.

Lord Jesus Christ, You have destroyed the power of death and given the hope of eternal life in body and soul.

Day 1

Immaculate Virgin, Mother of Jesus and our Mother, we believe in your triumphant assumption into heaven where the angels and saints acclaim you as Queen of Heaven and earth.

(mention your request)

We are comforted by our faith in the coming Resurrection and we look to you for prayers and comfort.

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From the writings of St. Teresa Benedicta of the Cross

Anyone who seeks the truth is seeking God, whether consciously or unconsciously.*

Saint Teresa Benedicta of the Cross underscores the intrinsic connection between the search for truth and the search for God. She suggests that all genuine quests for truth, in any form, are ultimately directed toward God, the source of all truth. This idea encourages us to view our intellectual pursuits and spiritual journeys as deeply interconnected. Edith Stein, a renowned philosopher and theologian, experienced this connection profoundly in her own life, leading her to embrace the Catholic faith and eventually become a Carmelite nun.

Anyone who seeks the truth is seeking God, whether consciously or unconsciously.*

How can you approach your search for truth as a journey toward God, and how does this understanding influence your daily life and interactions?Approach all inquiries and learning with the awareness that they are paths to discovering God. Allow this perspective to inspire integrity and humility in your quest for knowledge, recognizing each step as part of a larger spiritual journey. Deepen your quest for truth by immersing yourself in the Sacred Scriptures, the teachings of the Church, and the writings of the saints. Participate regularly in the sacramental life of the Church, particularly in the Eucharist and Confession, which provide spiritual nourishment and guidance. Seek the intercession of the Blessed Virgin Mary, Seat of Wisdom, and ask for her guidance in your studies and pursuits. Engage in prayer and contemplation, allowing the Holy Spirit to enlighten your mind and heart, leading you closer to the fullness of truth found in Christ. This understanding enriches your interactions with others, fostering respect and openness, and encourages you to live out the truths of the Catholic faith in your daily life.

O my God, fill my soul with holy joy, courage and strength to serve You. Enkindle Your love in me and then walk with me along the next stretch of road before me. I do not see very far ahead, but when I have arrived where the horizon now closes down, a new prospect will open before me and I shall meet with peace

The post Day 7 – St. Teresa Benedicta of the Cross (Edith Stein) Novena for the Discerning Heart – Discerning Hearts Podcast appeared first on Discerning Hearts Catholic Podcasts.

From the writings of St. Teresa Benedicta of the Cross

When night comes, and retrospect shows that everything was patchwork and much which one had planned was left undone; when so many things rouse shame and regret, then take all as it is, lay it in God’s hands, and offer it up to Him.*

Saint Teresa Benedicta of the Cross speaks to the universal experience of reflection and regret, especially at the end of a day or life phase. She advises turning these feelings into a spiritual offering, placing them in God’s hands as an act of trust and surrender. This practice fosters a sense of peace and acceptance, knowing that divine grace can transform even our shortcomings. Edith Stein’s intellectual and spiritual journeys were marked by moments of uncertainty, yet she consistently found peace in surrendering to God’s will, exemplifying a deep trust in divine providence.

When night comes, and retrospect shows that everything was patchwork and much which one had planned was left undone; when so many things rouse shame and regret, then take all as it is, lay it in God’s hands, and offer it up to Him.*

How can you practice surrender and trust in God’s plan when faced with your own shortcomings and unfinished plans?Offer your regrets and unmet goals to God in prayer, trusting in His mercy and wisdom. Embrace a spirit of humility and acceptance, believing that God can bring good out of every situation and that He guides you towards spiritual growth. Deepen your trust by reflecting on Christ’s own surrender to the Father’s will in the Garden of Gethsemane, and regularly participate in the sacraments, especially Reconciliation and the Eucharist, which provide grace and strength. Seek the intercession of saints like Edith Stein, who found profound peace in trusting God’s plan. Pray for the grace to accept your limitations and to trust in God’s loving providence, knowing that He works all things for the good of those who love Him (Romans 8:28).

O my God, fill my soul with holy joy, courage and strength to serve You. Enkindle Your love in me and then walk with me along the next stretch of road before me. I do not see very far ahead, but when I have arrived where the horizon now closes down, a new prospect will open before me and I shall meet with peace

The post Day 6 – St. Teresa Benedicta of the Cross (Edith Stein) Novena for the Discerning Heart – Discerning Hearts Podcast appeared first on Discerning Hearts Catholic Podcasts.

A Novena in honor of Ven. Bruno Lanteri, founder of the Oblates of the Virgin Mary

Day 9 – Opening to the Supreme Joy: Friendship with Jesus

“[The heart of the human person] finds itself in great distress without a close union with God, because only the fullness of being, of intelligence and of love, the infinite Unity and ineffable Trinity of God, can fill and satisfy its immense capacity.”

“The Church sings the solemn chant: Nobis datus, nobis natus–For us he has been given, for us he is born! Who would ever doubt this truth after so many testimonies? Jesus Christ is all for us. His Father gave him to us. He gave himself to us. There is no other acquisition better than this gift. He is therefore mine. Yes, he is mine and belongs to me. Oh Love! Oh Goodness! What is necessary on my part to gain this gift, greater than any gift, that contains in itself every other gift? Three things are necessary: faith, confidence and offering.”

“They are always in Jesus’ company; they are always conversing with Jesus. They strive to keep their memory gently fixed on Jesus, to accustom their intellect to always see and judge everything according to Jesus, to keep their will always tranquil and united to that of Jesus.”

Most Holy Trinity, Father, Son and Holy Spirit, you created me in your plan of love. You created all the things on the face of the earth to help me find true happiness. Fully aware of my weakness, I resolve this day to become a living copy of Jesus, letting him rejoice in me.

Daily Novena Prayer 

Venerable Bruno Lanteri, I come to you confident in the words of Jesus: Ask and you shall receive (Matthew 7:7). You said, “It is impossible to hope too much; the one who hopes for everything attains everything.” You taught that the greatest miracles are those that change the heart. Through your intercession, may the good God, whose infinite mercy surpasses all the malice of the world, console my heart and grant my request.

By your prayers keep my poor heart in peace, protect me from discouragement, and help me to serve God with a holy joy. Amen.

O Father, fountain of all life and holiness you gave Father Bruno Lanteri great faith in Christ, your Son, a lively hope, and an active love for the salvation of his brethren. You made him a prophet of your Word and a witness to your Mercy. He had a tender love for Mary and by his very life he taught fidelity to the Church. Father, hear the prayer of your family and, through the intercession of Fr. Lanteri, grant us the grace for which we now ask…. May he be glorified on earth that we may give you greater praise.

We ask this through your Son, Jesus Christ, our Lord. Amen.

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From the writings of St. Teresa Benedicta of the Cross

The soul of woman must therefore be expansive and open to all human beings; it must be quiet so that no small weak flame will be extinguished by stormy winds; warm so as not to benumb fragile buds; clear so that no vermin will settle in dark corners and recesses; self-contained, so that no invasions from without can imperil the inner life; empty of itself, in order that extraneous life may have room in it; finally, mistress of itself and also of its body, so that the entire person is readily at the disposal of every call.*

Saint Teresa Benedicta of the Cross uses vivid imagery to describe the ideal qualities of a woman’s soul. She emphasizes openness, nurturing warmth, clarity, and self-discipline as essential characteristics that enable women to care for others while maintaining their own integrity and strength. This vision encourages women to develop these traits actively. Edith Stein often wrote about the importance of balancing contemplation and action, advocating for a deeply integrated spiritual life.

The soul of woman must therefore be expansive and open to all human beings; it must be quiet so that no small weak flame will be extinguished by stormy winds; warm so as not to benumb fragile buds; clear so that no vermin will settle in dark corners and recesses; self-contained, so that no invasions from without can imperil the inner life; empty of itself, in order that extraneous life may have room in it; finally, mistress of itself and also of its body, so that the entire person is readily at the disposal of every call.*

In what ways can you cultivate a soul that is open, nurturing, and self-disciplined, ready to serve others?”

O my God, fill my soul with holy joy, courage and strength to serve You. Enkindle Your love in me and then walk with me along the next stretch of road before me. I do not see very far ahead, but when I have arrived where the horizon now closes down, a new prospect will open before me and I shall meet with peace

The post Day 5 – St. Teresa Benedicta of the Cross (Edith Stein) Novena for the Discerning Heart – Discerning Hearts Podcast appeared first on Discerning Hearts Catholic Podcasts.

A Novena in honor of Ven. Bruno Lanteri, founder of the Oblates of the Virgin Mary

Day 8 – Overcoming Excuses for being Sad

“It is necessary to notice that many times these sufferings are products of our imagination, and a joyful spirit dispels them easily. In fact, many times they are trifles, or even without any foundation whatsoever. For example: a person forgets to greet someone because of a distraction, causing that person to presume it is out of malice or scorn. Or again, a word comes from the mouth of someone–perhaps in simplicity or jest–and it is immediately interpreted as an offense. Many times the disgust is disgust because we want to be disgusted, like spooked horses who jump backwards not because there may be an occasion for fear, but because they themselves create the fear.

…As for true and real tribulations and adversities, notice that if they are not taken with a joyful abandonment to God, they will become much heavier! They will damage the spirit and lead to impatience, lack of charity, murmuring against God, and even against one’s own body. Drive sadness far away from you, for sadness brought death to many (Sirach 30:23). Thus, afflictions of soul, desolations, desperation–see how they foster more sadness!

…Yes, these things impede joy if one looks upon them with a worldly eye, if one seeks their causes in the earth, or in creatures, and does not look upon them with the eye of faith, or does not believe that all comes from God… nothing happens contrary to His will. And it is from God our father–he is a father like no other father–who permits all things for our good, so may we reflect on the grace attached to it and the reward prepared for us.”

Most Holy Trinity, Father, Son and Holy Spirit, you created me in your plan of love. You created all the things on the face of the earth to help me find true happiness. Fully aware of my weakness, I resolve this day to accept with joy whatever you permit to happen, for I know that all things work for good for those who love God (Romans 8:28).

Daily Novena Prayer 

Venerable Bruno Lanteri, I come to you confident in the words of Jesus: Ask and you shall receive (Matthew 7:7). You said, “It is impossible to hope too much; the one who hopes for everything attains everything.” You taught that the greatest miracles are those that change the heart. Through your intercession, may the good God, whose infinite mercy surpasses all the malice of the world, console my heart and grant my request.

By your prayers keep my poor heart in peace, protect me from discouragement, and help me to serve God with a holy joy. Amen.

O Father, fountain of all life and holiness you gave Father Bruno Lanteri great faith in Christ, your Son, a lively hope, and an active love for the salvation of his brethren. You made him a prophet of your Word and a witness to your Mercy. He had a tender love for Mary and by his very life he taught fidelity to the Church. Father, hear the prayer of your family and, through the intercession of Fr. Lanteri, grant us the grace for which we now ask…. May he be glorified on earth that we may give you greater praise.

We ask this through your Son, Jesus Christ, our Lord. Amen.

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