Script
0:00
The eighth day of the Novena: A unifying heart
3:57
Today's reading is from the Gospel of John.
‘I ask not only on behalf of these, but also on behalf of those who will believe in me through their word, that they may all be one. As you, Father, are in me and I am in you, may they also be in us, so that the world may believe that you have sent me. The glory that you have given me I have given them, so that they may be one, as we are one, I in them and you in me, that they may become completely one, so that the world may know that you have sent me and have loved them even as you have loved me. Father, I desire that those also, whom you have given me, may be with me where I am, to see my glory, which you have given me because you loved me before the foundation of the world.'
5:17
Rows in families, fallings out between friends, prejudice between groups, wars between nations are all signs of the absence of the Spirit. How much pain people endure today! The Spirit works to reconcile and build bridges but through the patience of others who seek to build up the community locally or nationally.
Lord, in our world of fragile relations where prejudice easily substitutes for knowledge, grant us the courage to welcome the outsider and to move beyond peer pressure. Help us to be ready to receive the Spirit at work.
7:35
Lord Jesus Christ, your heart was moved with love for the men and women who came for help in their need. You healed the sick, you fed the hungry, you forgave sinners, you cried over Jerusalem. Above all, you showed to those who were prepared to listen the way to true life, for you are the Way the Truth and the Life.
Lord, your heart is still moved today by your people and their many needs. Open our hearts to hear your word, to accept your love, and to respond to your call. In particular, I beg you to grant me the favour I ask during this novena (make you request silently), provided that it will contribute to my own eternal good and to the building up of your Kingdom of justice, peace and love here on earth.
Most Sacred Heart of Jesus, I place all my trust in you.
Amen.