A Brief Story OF Sr. Maria Clara do Menino Jesus

Our narration begins here. It is the story of Libânia: June 15, 1843. Nuno Tomaz de Mascarenhas Galvão Mexia de Moura Telles e Albuquerque and Mrs. Maria da Purificação de Sá Carneiro, the parents, in the serenity of deep joy and great love, welcome the birth of the little girl as a priceless gift. Nuno and Emília Carolina had already enriched the family of Quinta do Bosque, na Amadora. Now, the little Libânia bring along new enchantment. If her parents gave her a name among the great, the more important, Baptism confers upon her that of a Christian. In the bosom of her Godmother, D. Libânia do Carmo Abranches Ferreira da Cunha, she receives the lustral water from the hands of the Parish priest, Fr. Jerónimo, on September 2, 1843. The bells of the Church of Nossa Senhora do Amparo, of Benfica, ring and celebrate the entrance of Libânia in the bosom of the Church. Libânia do Carmo grows serenely and harmoniously. The house of the Bosque is very big and witnesses her awakening to life. Everything is novelty and interesting. To read, to count, the catechism classed awakened her curiosity. The family keeps growing. After her came Matilde Henriqueta, Carlos, Henrique ... Ruisinho is about to arrive. Tio João lives with them – and now in Lisbon. It is there that she witnesses his death in 1885 and that of her youngest brother Rui. Pain sown in her adolescent heart. Greater suffering will she face a year after, when the incurable sickness takes her mother and in December 1d857, the epidemic takes away her father. Two months before, she had joined the Boarding of Palácio da Ajuda. The work of the educators, the Daughters of Charity of St. Vincent of Paul, of French origin, helps her to get healed of the wounds and to prepare herself to the ups and downs of life. Five years of study, reflection, work and prayer forged her rich personality, newly wounded by the expulsion of her educators, in 1862. She is then determined to accept, the invitation to live with the the Marchioness of Valada, great friends of her parents. Life in Society, by the side of these relatives, occupied all her days. "The youthfulness spent in the splendour of luxury, surrendered to the frivolous pleasures of the world” did not satisfy her well formed heart. It is this restlessness that leads her to the tranquillity of the Boarding of St. Patricio, in Lisbon. There she comes to know Fr. Raimundo dos Anjos Beirão. She opens her heart and places before him her problems… His advice enlightens her path, but feels it is not easy to follow. Society is an obstacle; to overcome them she needs a lot of courage. She breaks off from everything and decides: to consecrate herself to God in the service of the needy. She changes the worldly life for a habit of a poor servant. Gives up the illustrious name and is forever Sr. Maria Clara of the Child Jesus. She follows the Master and Lord who washed the feet of his apostles, welcoming the poor and the forgotten, the sick and the weak, the children and the lonely. For this, she starts the Congregation of the Franciscan Hospitaller Sisters of the Immaculate Conception. It is May 03, 1871. The new way of life keeps on attracting other followers. They are quite a number. She wants the approval from Rome, for this way of living. Exposes the evangelical dream of her heart, draws up plans of mercy, presents her intention of well-being. May the Holy Father bless her resolution of living fraternal life in poverty ... In the slowness of the means of communications of that time, the quickness of the Papal Yes surprises our times. Having requested for it in November 1875, on March 27, 1876 the Congregation is of pontifical right. Those who have nothing of their own have to trust in Providence. Precisely, in these extreme situations, the hand of God opens out generously “satiating those who place their trust in Him”. When dinner time comes – says the Chronicler – there is nothing to eat. Mother Clara, sadly says: “My Sisters, today, Our Lord did not give us anything to prepare the meal with”. Nobody was disturbed and all relished the piece of dry bread. Moments later, there is a knock at the door. A lady sends a basket full of food. Only a heart that is poor is available for others. To attend to them, to look after the children, help the elderly, welcome the orphans is a job that does not permit this Sister of the poor to rest. “She possessed a tender and kind heart, very compassionate and charitable. It could be said that it was in intimate contact with the heart of Christ”". She dedicates her time, care and savings for all. Never does her heart pain as much as when she cannot extend her hand to those who suffer or wipe the tears of those who cry. Her works of beneficence do not choose the place. When called to Africa, they leave happily. The heroic missionary deeds begins by sending Sisters to Angola, in 1883 and later to India, Guiné and Cabo Verde, which is later woven self-sacrifice by generous and faithful hands. The links of courage and joy, of devotion and humanity, of faith and great zeal, interwoven by a thousand dangers and exertions, will offer the people of other places a blanket woven with love and a tent of shelter and hope. A fertile life in her self-gift, opening frontiers to all charity, Sr. Maria Clara moves towards new Easter. In spite of her extraordinary fortitude of soul, with all vitality of the spirit, the signs of her end approach. A sickness that she had for several years, aggravated, without hope of recovery. A cardiac lesion, with added pulmonary congestion, takes her away from this earth. It is on December 01, 1899. To the pain of the Sisters is added that of the poor and the friends. The devout pilgrimage of the faithful lasted for three days. They want to see for the last time, this extremely charitable woman … and ask her from heaven to watch over us. A life that is transformed, to produce life in other lives. The grain of wheat, giving fruit through the strength of the Spirit. Inner sap, spurring generosity in those who follow her ideal … Deep footprints of the life of Mother Clara today, form the path for many, who continue her work. And, the more workers follow her, the more this world will be happy, through the blessing of the Gospel, lived and proclaimed.

Abide with me- HYMN

1. Abide with me; fast falls the eventide; The darkness deepens; Lord, with me abide. When other helpers fail and comforts flee, Help of the helpless, O abide with me. 2. Swift to its close ebbs out life's little day; Earth’s joys grow dim; its glories pass away; Change and decay in all around I see; O thou who changest not, abide with me. 3. I need thy presence every passing hour. What but thy grace can foil the tempter's power? Who, like thyself, my guide and stay can be? Through cloud and sunshine, Lord, abide with me. 4. I fear no foe, with thee at hand to bless; Ills have no weight, and tears not bitterness. Where is death's sting? Where, grave, thy victory? I triumph still, if thou abide with me. 5. Hold thou thy cross before my closing eyes; Shine through the gloom and point me to the skies. Heaven's morning breaks and earth's vain shadows flee; In life, in death, O Lord, abide with me.

BLESSED ARE THEY WHO ARE PERSECUTED FOR THE SAKE OF RIGHTEOUSNESS, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven

INTRO As we come to celebrate the eight day of novena we are here to remember the persecutions that we face in the name of Christ. Are you ready to suffer for Christ? Today we are called to suffer persecution, shame and injustice for being a Christian. Who are the persecuted today? These are the people who are persecuted on account of “Me” • who stand up for Jesus, who stand up against un-Christian values They are willing to give up or lose their life for the sake of the Gospel;And have the courage to do what is right at all times Let us take a flash through history 2000 years ago to see the martyrs who gave each drop of their blood for their faith. “If the world hates you, be aware that it hated me before it hated you…… If they persecuted me, they will persecute you……..They will do all these things to you on account of my name, because they do not know HIM who sent me”. (John 15:18 – 21) St.Thomas – First Christian martyr. “Asathoma Sathgamaya , Thamasoma Jyothirgamaya, Mrutyoma Amrutam gamaya” The ancient sages prayed longing for the ultimate truth, light and life… • St.Thomas, the disciple of Jesus brought Christianity to India. In the year AD52, he reached the port of Cranganore, Kerala . • He healed the sick, did many miracles for the needy and preached the good news of Jesus, “I am the Light of the world, the Way, the Truth and the Life”. • He became a martyr in AD72 near Chennai. “Father in heaven, forgive them, they do not know what they are doing”- He repeated the prayer of Jesus for those who crucified him. Christianity in India was founded on the blood of St.Thomas. Let us now see the Cruel Indian Story which happened in our own country to our own people for the sake of Christ From a land that respect and worship women Just one of the many examples in recent years Gandhiji’s Murders are destroying the Christian community Gandhiji taught – Ishware, alla tere naam… sabko summat, Hey Bhagavan Bapuji, Will they ever realize that all are children of the same God They think Creator of the universe need blood and rape of nuns They brand Christians like untouchables The Week of Nightmares (December 2007)  Death – 6, Houses burnt & looted – 500,Shops, commercial properties – 126  Destruction:Parish churches – 5, Village Churches – 48,Convents – 5  Hostels – 7,Leprosy centre -1 ,Vocational Training Centre – 1  Vehicles – not surveyed,Animals killed – not surveyed Still Counting…. (violence 2008) Death confirmed: 45  priests/ pastors/ nuns seriously .injured: 10  Priests kidnapped : 2 Houses demolished in 160 villages : 4300 Institutions/ schools destroyed : 7 Churches/Chapels : 101 Convents and hostels: 14  Residences of priests : 5 Dispensaries : 2 Vocational Training Centres : 3  Shops : 126 Vehicles burnt / destroyed: 43 The Forest was the only refuge for the roofless and voiceless….. Shops & Houses Owned by Christians were charred to the ground. About 50,000 people fled to the forests ( imagine you stuck alone in the forest – fear and no food/shelter ) What is happening today? 12,000 persons in the refugees camps  Little medical care, No rehabilitation taking place  40,000 people still hiding in forests On return: No Christian Leader is allowed to visit. Supporters of fundamentalists get further access. Many people are indirectly forced to forsake faith. Christian Organizations are not allowed to do relief works………. WHEREAS……In the Super Cyclone & other natural calamities Christian NGOs and church groups were first to set up relief and rehabilitation works in Orissa Orissa is not alone…. Hate and Crimes against Christians are appearing in several states  Prominent are Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, Gujarat, Maharashtra, Andhra Pradesh, and Karnataka On single day Sep. 14th 2008 in Karnataka ( “Bangalore” is in this state- sadly ungrateful leaders) .14 churches attacked, Blessed Sacrament desecrated, statues broken, even cloistered nuns were not spared Those who escaped the attacks…. Unknown destiny.. With last straw of faith Leaping out of Memories Doctor Graham Stains and children burnt to death in Manoharpur. He was running a leprosy hospital. Tomb of Sr. Rani Maria In MP, with 52 stabbing she had the courage to say - “I forgive and pray for you”, said the sister to the killer while dying. Grace Nayak & family beaten up in MP Gajraula – gangrape of nuns What do the religions teach? “Go into all lands and preach this gospel. Tell them that the poor and the lowly, the rich and the high are one”. - The Buddha “You must go out to preach your religion, preach it to every nation under the sun”.- Swami Vivekananda “May the active be Glorifying God, arising all” (Rig Veda 9.63.5) “May I speak these blissful words to my own people and the foreigner” (Yajur Veda 26.1-2 “Go and proclaim the good news to all creations”. - Jesus Christ “For this purpose was I born, and to spread this religion God appointed me”.Guru Govind Singh Christian Response to Persecution – “Father, Forgive them” “My husband and our children have sacrificed their lives for the nation of India. India is my home” - Gladis Stains “I praise God that my father and my brothers are found worthy to die for Christ” Esther Stains Faith in God is all that they have left. Christians demands protection of their fundamental rights. Christians seek support from all right-thinking citizens of this country irrespective of caste and religion The persecuted church in India waits the day of Resurrection!!! Oh God, our Father, let your Spirit enlighten us to understand that all human beings, irrespective of race, caste and creed, are your children. As Jesus taught us, let ‘truth make us free’ from all prejudices, hatred and violence, transforming our society into a family of love, joy and peace. We make this prayer through your beloved son and our Lord, Jesus Christ, AMEN. My dear friend, Hope you will try to make a difference so that… Lessons for Today Early Christians could have avoided persecution by simply incorporating pagan worship (e.g., worshiping Caesar) into Christian practice However, they didn’t. Unlike the society around them, they believed in truth and were prepared to defend it with their lives. Greek philosophy had eroded confidence in Gods which led to religious pluralism. Today Christians are in an analogous situation we are pressured by society to accept religious pluralism we are seen as foolish and narrow-minded to think we have the truth Society has tacitly excepted religious pluralism We must be willing to stand up for truth in the face of more benign adversity No blessing on those who suffer because they have done wrong, “But let none of you suffer as a murderer, a thief, an evildoer, or as a busybody in other people's matters” (1 Peter 4:15).Persecution for Christ is laudable, “Yet if anyone suffers as a Christian, let him not be ashamed, but let him glorify God in this matter” (1 Peter 4:16). Persecution will happen! (Acts 14:21-22; 2 Tim. 3:12) In being one of Jesus’ disciples, each person takes up his cross daily (Luke 9:23).The cross stands for the suffering involved in living for Christ (Mat 10:21-22). The Christian gladly endures persecution for the sake of righteousness knowing that no form of persecution can separate him from God’s love and promise of salvation (Rom. 8:35-39; cf. Mat. 5:10-12).

FEAST OF BLESSED MARIA CLARA

The great feast of Mother Clara commemorating her 111 death anniversary calls us to renew our spiritual birth in the congregation of Franciscan Hospitaller Sisters of the Immaculate Conception. Our Foundress lived on this earth as a model of love and charity “ Do good where there is good to be done”, echoes the heart beat of the birth of our congregation through the pains of religious persecution and sickness. Mother Clara, who was barely 35 years old, had to shoulder the responsibility of leading a Congregation at a time in history, when women were considered to be 2nd class citizens, who were to be submissive to the orders of men. The government as well as other officials were not very encouraging. With her total trust in the Lord, and her conviction that “The Providential glance of God watches over us !” Mother Clara was able to nurture the Congregation which reached out to the thousands of poor and needy and which continues to do so in different parts of the world even today. A life that is transformed, to produce life in other lives. The grain of wheat, giving fruit through the strength of the Spirit. Inner sap, spurring generosity in those who follow her ideal are the Deep footprints of the life of Mother Clara today, forming the path for many, to continue her work. And, the more the workers follow her, the more this world will be happy, through the blessing of the Gospel, lived and proclaimed The links of courage and joy, of devotion and humanity, of faith and great zeal, interwoven by a thousand dangers and exertions, will offer the people of other places a blanket woven with love and a tent of shelter and hope. A fertile life in her self-gift, opening frontiers to all charity, Mother Maria Clara moves towards her new Easter. Lord, You who motivated Mother Clara to live with an ever grateful heart, advising us to "be generous towards You, as You have been generous towards us", through Your intercession, as we gather round this altar give us the grace to worthily partake of this mystery as her true daughters, friends and intercessors. This morning we remember each of our sisters all over the world, the Fasfhic members and the Pro- league members who are ever zealous to spread the witnesses of her great generosity through the miracles and graces obtained to face the challenges of our ever changing world. . Lord our God "Many and marvellous are the wonders you work upon us" (Ps. 39). Through the intercession of Your Servant, Mother Clara, through whom You revealed to many Your love, give heed to our prayer, and once again manifest Your goodness, granting us the grace we ask for.Glory be... Lord Jesus, You who ask us "Be perfect as Your heavenly Father is perfect" (Mt. 5:48), enkindle in us the desire to imitate You. In the example of Mother Clara who filing the edges of her defects, went on perfecting herself ever more, grant us a good heart and the grace of obtaining what we ask of You.Glory be... .

BLESSED ARE THE PEACEMAKERS, for they will be called children of God.

Today we have once more gathered together to reflect on a beatitude which is the answer to a world of terrorism, hatred, religious fundamentalism and war. We are also here to begin the wonderful season of Advent in preparation for the coming of the prince of Peace, Jesus The Lord of Lords let us welcome him in our midst . Let us now invite Sr _________ to light the first candle of Advent as we begin our prayer with a hymn. 1. O come, divine Messiah! The world in silence waits the day when hope shall sing its triumph, And sadness flee away. Ch Dear Savior haste; Come, come to earth, Dispel the night and show your face, And bid us hail the dawn of grace. 2. O Christ, whom nations sigh for, whom priest and prophet long foretold, Come break the captive fetters; redeem the long-lost fold. 3. You come in peace and meekness, and lowly will your cradle be; all clothed in human weakness Shall we your Godhead see. The season of Advent is here… to begin a new life Light looked down and beheld Darkness. “Here will I go," said Light. Peace looked down and beheld War.” Here will I go," said Peace. Love looked down and beheld Hatred.” Here will I go," said Love. So came Light and shone. So came Peace and gave rest. So came Love and brought Life. --Laurence Housman Event after event has left the world questioning Why all the pain and strife? Where has peace been lost, Let us find peace before we lose our world… Why the slaughter of the innocents? Why troubles and sorrows?" It is getting darker and colder all the time. The sun is setting, the darkness is falling, and the world is looking for some ray of peace… …That peace is here. On that special night, God gave us the greatest gift anyone could give--His Son, Jesus. Though Jesus came into the world as a tiny baby, He brought with Him all of God's wonderful gifts. As He grew older, He unwrapped these gifts for us, one by one, as He taught us how to love God and each other. Then, when Jesus died for us, He gave us the greatest gift of all--the promise of eternal life in Heaven when our time on Earth is done. Two thousand years ago, over the town of Bethlehem, a new star shone and an angel of God proclaimed to a group of shepherds, "Behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy which will be to all people. For there is born to you this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord" (Luke 2:10-11). Jesus wants to bring His peace to the hearts of all men everywhere. He sees the misery and grief and pain of the heavy-hearted. He sees the weak and the weary. He sees those who struggle with fear--fear of the past, and fear of the future. He sees the persecuted and war-torn, those who have been robbed of hope and a chance to live in peace. He hears our cries and reaches out to us in love. He offers us a way out, an escape route from our inner conflicts, fears, and sense of hopelessness. "Let not your heart be troubled," He tells us. "You believe in God, believe also in Me" (John 14:1). "Peace I leave with you, My peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you" (John 14:27). “In the world you will have tribulation; but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world" (John 16:33). If you will reach out your hand to Him now, He will lead you through the darkness and into the light. Jesus came into this world to offer you life and love and peace that know no boundaries. These gifts are not limited by race or religious background or color or creed. They are for now and forever. Who are the Peacemakers on this earth? They are more than just being peace lovers • They work not just for the absence of conflict but for authentic justice and harmony Peacemakers are the ones who Are peaceful from within • Who promote conditions or situations for real peace • Who promote love of enemies and are agents of reconciliation Peacemakers “Give peace a chance!” They create and develop the right relationships to promote justice and a better world to live in with freedom and respect and equality. They work for peace, reconciliation and justice in the world recognizing every person as a child of God. “Peace is the true prize of souls who serve the Lord well in this world and the secure path to eternal glory”. “True peace of soul is what gives us strength and courage in the midst of the sacrifices of our life”.“Without union, there is no peace”. “Serenity of spirit (Peace) is not acquired without interior struggle, but it is the sure path to eternal glory”. Jesus, the Prince of Peace, will not only give you peace in your heart here and now, but when this life is over, He will bring you to His haven of rest. In His heavenly Kingdom there will be no more oppression or war or poverty or pain or sickness or suffering or sorrow or death, but only peace and plenty for all. There evil and darkness dare not go! Jesus is reaching out to you now. Won't you take His peace? Let us welcome the Christ child in our midst and let us express to him our deepest sentiment of peace and love as we pass the statue of Baby Jesus around to venerate the coming of his kingdom Let the Prince of Peace give you His perfect peace. Let the truth and love He brought that first Christmas shine in your heart now. Let Him wipe away your fears and tears and let His love warm your Christmas! LIGHT OF THE WORLD, You stepped down into darkness, Opened my eyes, let me see Beauty that made this heart adore You, Hope of a life spent with you. So here I am to worship, Here I am to bow down, Here I am to say that You're my God; And You're altogether lovely, Altogether worthy, Altogether wonderful to me. King of all days, Oh so highly exalted, Glorious in heaven above; Humbly You came To the earth You created, All for love's sake became poor. And I'll never know how much it cost, to see my sin upon that cross.

Here I Am To Worship (Light of the World)

ORDER: I V1 C V2 C B B C C E INTRO: E VERSE 1: E Bsus Light of the world F#m You stepped down into darkness E Bsus E/A Opened my eyes, let me see E Bsus F#m Beauty that made this heart adore You E Bsus E/A Hope of a life spent with You CHORUS: Bsus E Here I am to worship B/D# Here I am to bow down E/G# A Here I am to say that You're my God E You're altogether lovely B/D# Altogether worthy E/G# A Altogether wonderful to me VERSE 2: E Bsus King of all days F#m Oh so highly exalted E Bsus E/A Glorious in Heaven above E Bsus F#m Humbly You came to the earth You created E Bsus E/A All for love’s sake became poor BRIDGE: B/D# E/G# A I'll never know how much it cost B/D# E/G# A To see my sin upon that cross

BLESSED ARE THE PURE OF HEART, for they will see God.

INTRO As we gather once again to understand the beatitude of life let us reflect on the purity of heart that makes us a child of God not only to see God but to understand the quality of his creation. Let us look around and see. The world is pure and it reflects Gods purity in the air we breathe, in the light we see, in the beauty of earth, the flowers, fruits and mountains and sea. Yet it is a miracle to experience the purity of God from within and around. Who are the clean of heart? Those who have absolute integrity in word and action • have pure intentions, • Have purity of words and deeds • are sincere, transparent • have selfless motives They put God first in their lives and nothing comes in between. Their commitment to a cause is Absolute. The clean of heart are characterized by their – simplicity, single mindedness, single priority sacrifice, solitude None of us has a pure heart spontaneously; if we attain it one day, it will be at the cost of great effort. Thus, it is primarily a question for us aspiring to purify our hearts. Our first concern is therefore to show the way of this purification: through what stages will we have to pass that our hearts may become as clear waters which will reflect the image of God? Jesus has a terrible observation to make about our impure hearts: `Whatever comes out of the mouth comes from the heart, and it is this that makes someone unclean. For from the heart come evil intentions: murder, adultery, fornication, theft, perjury, slander. These are the things that make a person unclean' (Matthew 15:18—20 NJB). Our hearts are the source of the pollution which spreads through both our inner and outer selves. In the very centre of our life of prayer there is an inexhaustible reservoir of disturbance, noise, agitation and of fog clouding our eyes as we seek the divine light. That is the heart we have to purify. It would be foolish to want to deal at a stroke with this source of impurity without first disposing of all those external actions which make us blind. The first stage on the journey to purity of heart is interior silence. To ensure that our actions regain a genuine integrity, and above all to bring order into our thoughts and imaginations: this is the first, indispensable purification if we want to rediscover our hearts, hidden and buried as they are by the rush and bustle within us. Even if our imagination has fallen silent and our thoughts become stilled, we shall find in the depths of ourselves a kind of fundamental instability, an inexhaustible fount of anxiety, a seedbed of judgments, condemnations and fear. If we are truly to have a strong desire to purify this heart, we must first experience its impurity and feel the radical need to transform it, if we are one day to see God. It is then that we make our own, as though addressed to us personally, the word that God spoke to Israel through Ezekiel: `I shall pour clean water over you and you will be cleansed; I shall cleanse you of all your filth and of all your foul idols. I shall give you a new heart, and put a new spirit in you; I shall remove the heart of stone from your bodies and give you a heart of flesh instead. I shall put my spirit in you, and make you keep my laws, and respect and practise my judgements.' (Ezekiel 36: 25—27 NJB) “I now no longer live Christ my Lord lives in me” We must cleanse ourselves of sin so we may be able to call upon the Lord with a pure heart 2 Tim 2:21-23 Therefore, if anyone cleanses from these things, hey will be a vessel for honor, sanctified, useful to the Master, prepared for every good work. Now flee from youthful lusts, and pursue righteousness, faith, love and peace, with those who call on the Lord from a pure heart. Mother Clara’s call is a testimony for her vocation. Let us Love God and God alone… What is Life? GOD What is our nourishment? The Cross What is our achievement? The Sacrifice “Courage then! Hands to the work without slackening living solely for God, having but one heart and one soul for him” “You do not live among angels, but creatures who cannot be absolutely perfect. We are all mortals and we are weak. So accept one another in charity without being astonished at the defects of your sisters”. For purity of heart, we must confess our sins regularly seeking forgiveness 1 John 1:9 If we confess our sins, He is faithful and righteous to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness To maintain fellowship with God requires a pure heart James 4:8 Draw near to God and He will draw near to you. Cleanse your hands, you sinners; and purify your hearts, you double-minded. HYMN Purify my heart, Let me be like gold and precious silver Purify my heart, Let me be like gold, pure gold, Ch Refiner’s fire, my hearts one desire is to be holy, Set apart for you Lord, I chose to be holy, set apart for you my Master, Ready to do your will… Purify my heart, cleanse me from within, and make me holy, Purify my heart, cleanse me from my sin, deep within. The converted are pure in heart. Matt 5:8 Blessed are the pure in heart: for they shall see God. To be “pure in heart” is to be clean and pure of sin, having a sincere and earnest devotion to God. Purity of heart is to have a pure longing for God, serving Him only (Mat 6:24). Purity of heart is accomplished only with the help of God (Ps 51:10; Act 15:9). There is a commitment to totally clean our hearts from sin (Mat. 12:34-35). Novena 6th day To You all honour and glory for ever and ever. Amen Lord our God "Many and marvellous are the wonders you work upon us" (Ps. 39). Through the intercession of Your Servant, Mother Clara, through whom You revealed to many Your love, give heed to our prayer, and once again manifest Your goodness, granting us the grace we ask for. Glory be to the Father… Lord Jesus, You who ask us "Be perfect as Your heavenly Father is perfect" (Mt. 5:48), enkindle in us the desire to imitate You. In the example of Mother Clara who filing the edges of her defects, went on perfecting herself ever more, grant us a good heart and the grace of obtaining what we ask of You. Glory be to the Father… Lord, You who motivated Mother Clara to live with an ever grateful heart, advising us to "be generous towards You, as You have been generous towards us", through Your intercession, listen to our supplication in Your great generosity. Our Father... Glory be to the Father... To You all honour and all glory... Prayer Asking For The Canonization Of Mother Maria Clara Of The Child Jesus Most Holy Trinity, Father, Son and Holy Spirit, for your greater honor and glory, for the good of the Church and the world, deign to glorify here on earth your servant Mother Maria Clara of the Child Jesus who in her life time dedicated herself to care of the children the poor and all those who suffered. Adorn her Lord with the aureole of glory, which the Holy Church places before us as models of virtue to imitate and listen to supplication, which through her intercession we address to you granting us the grace we ask for. To You all honour and glory for ever and ever. Amen

HYMN TO MARIA CLARA

HYMN We give thanks to thee O Lord, for Mother Maria Clara, Who lit in our hearts, a flame so bright that even today is burning. 1 A life that reached and touched the lives Of those around her perishing A life that showed that God is love Through Hospitality. 2. we thank thee Lord that she cared so much And made a difference by ministering Making this like heaven above, Bringing light, the shadows dispelling. 3. Help us keep the flame shining bright, Bring hope to a world that’s dying, Help us to love, make burdens light And chase away all sighing.

STATIONS OF THE CROSS= 4

INTRODUCTION Lord Jesus/we have come/ to walk along with you /on the journey to Calvary. /You were condemned /by the very persons/ who knew who you really were./ The persons who were cured / of their diseases,/ the blind who regained their sight,/ the lame that walked again,/ were there to condemn you./ Your own Apostles/ denied and deserted you./Today/we desire to walk with you/as a repentance for the times /you were with us/ and yet we deserted you./ You sustain us/ with the love of the Eucharist/ and yet we are guilty/ of denying that we are your disciples/ by our lives of indifference/ and lack of witness./As we walk along with you,/we repent for our sins/ which made you walk/ this journey for us. /Give us the grace / to remain faithful/to our commitment/ not to sin/ Amen. 1. Dear Jesus, today, I too deny you like Pilate. Even when I know what is wrong, I listen to the crowd of the television, of the media and the world and deny you and your values, because it is the ‘in’ thing. Give me the grace to be another Jesus everyday and bring salvation to souls. Amen. At the Cross her station keeping Stood the mournful Mother weeping, Close to Jesus to the last 2. Lord Jesus Christ, / you accepted the Cross at the hands of men / to make of it / the sign of God’s saving love/ for humanity./ Grant to us / the courage to take up the Cross/ and follow you/ in word and deed./ We ask that / the cross will always be for us / and our families/ a sign of redemption/ and a witness/ of your love/ to the whole world/.To you, O Jesus, / Priest and Victim, /be praise and glory/ for ever and ever/ Amen. Through her heart, his sorrow sharing, All his bitter anguish bearing, Now at length the sword had passed 3. Lord Jesus,/ I admit / that I too have fallen into sin,/ and it was my sin / that made you carry the cross./ You loved us/ and so you continued your journey./ Give me the grace/ to realise that/ much is to be done/ in my parish/ and in society./ Let me get up from my lethargy/ and come forward/ to share in the mission /you have given me and my family/ to make this world / into the Kingdom of God. Amen. Oh, how sad and sore distressed Was that Mother highly blessed Of the sole begotten One! 4. O Mary, Our Mother/ I too am in the crowd/ of those who mocked Jesus./ It was for my sins / that Jesus had to carry the Cross / and walk the journey to Calvary/.Yet/ you surrendered all/ with your Yes./ and remained faithful to your word./ Implore for us / and for the generations yet to come/ the grace to surrender to God’s love and will./ Help us, / in the face of suffering,/ rejection, and trial, / however prolonged and severe, / never to doubt his love./ To Jesus, your Son, honour and glory for ever and ever. / Amen. Christ above in torments hangs She beneath beheld the pangs Of her dying Glorious Son 5. Lord Jesus/ you needed Simon / to carry the cross. Very often/ I have just watched others/ slog and sweat/ to make this parish and society/ a better place./ Give me the grace/ to realise that/ I need to contribute/ the best that I have/ by way of time, resources and talents/ to share in the mission that you have given us/ to bring the Good News / and make the parish and society / a better place. Amen Is there one who would not weep, Whelmed in miseries so deep, Christ’s dear Mother to behold? 6. Lord Jesus/ many a time/ I have wanted to be another Veronica/ but fear of the crowd/ made me draw back./ Our mothers like Veronica/ came forward to teach us about you/ but as we grew/ we wandered far/ from what is expected of us./ As we walk with you to Calvary/ give us a new understanding/ of Your love/ and the courage to be different in You. Amen Can the human heart refrain From partaking in her pain, In that Mother’s pain untold? 7. Lord Jesus/ the road to Calvary/ was full of stones and pitfalls/ but you continued your mission / because of your infinite love for us./ It was not your will alone,/ but the will of the Father/ that you came to accomplish./ Your Father and ours/ has a plan for each of us/ a plan for our good / give us the gifts of the Spirit/ that we will constantly discern/ God’s will in our lives. Amen Bruised, derided, cursed, defiled, She beheld her tender Child, All with bloody scourges rent. 8. Lord Jesus,/ today the world is full of exciting and tempting options,/ but these are not of You./ Teach us through Your passion/ the price of our redemption./ May we make our homes / truly a Domestic Church/ and be the instruments of holiness to our children and our neighbours./ May we repent/ for our sins/ and avoid all the occasions of sin./ Amen Let me share with you his pain Who for all my sin was slain, Who for me in torments died. 9. Lord Jesus/ you fell a third time/ but you did not give up./ Sharing in your passion/ I ask that/ when sin and evil get me down/ I too will rise / trusting always in your everlasting love/ and knowing that when I return to you/ even if my sins/ are scarlet like blood/ you will wash them/ whiter than snow/ and you will remember my sin no more./ Amen. O you Mother, fount of love! Touch my spirit from above, Make my heart with yours accord. 10. Lord give me the grace/ to detach my heart / more and more / from all that takes me/ away from you./ Detach my heart / from all sinful vanities / and pleasures./grant to us and to all the world’s people / a share in your sacrifice on the Cross,/ so that / what we are / and what we do / may always be a free and conscious sharing / in your work of salvation./ Amen Make me feel as you have felt; Make my soul to glow and melt With the love of Christ our Lord. 11. Lord Jesus/ you were nailed to the cross/ like a common criminal,/ yet you did it for me./ You suffered the pain and agony/ because you wanted to show/ for all eternity/ the great love of the Father/and to bring us back/ to the Father’s love/ Give me/ and each of us/ in this parish/ a burning desire/ to forget our differences/ and work together/ to experience the great love of the Father/ in our lives/ and that of the community. Amen. Holy Mother, pierce me through; In my heart each wound renew Of my Saviour crucified 12. Lord Jesus Christ, / in the moment of your agony / you asked the Father/ to forgive those who hurt you./ You asked forgiveness for all my sins/ because you wanted to spare me / the torment of hell./ For all that you have done for me/ I have been indifferent to you/ and to others./ I have taken you for granted/ and lived as a Christian/ only in name./ Very often I have done the minimum/ as your witness/ in reaching out to others/ and using my talents for the good of all/ and expected the maximum from you./ Fill me and the generations yet to come /with your Spirit of love,/ so that our indifference/ will not render vain in us/ the fruits of your death./ Amen Let me share with thee His pain Who for all our sins was slain Who for me in torments died 13. Mary, our Mother/ we ask you today/ to intercede for us/ the grace/ to be ever loyal/ and devoted to you and Jesus./ we pray today/ in a special way/ for our mothers/ bless them with you love and care./Be with them while on earth/ and assist and intercede for them / before the throne of grace. Amen Let me mingle tears with you, Mourning him who mourned for me, All the days that I may live. 14. Lord Jesus Christ,/ by the power of the Holy Spirit,/ you were drawn by the Father/ from the darkness of death/ to the light of a new life in glory./ Grant that the sign of the empty tomb/ may always remind us /of your undying love/ and become for us/ a wellspring of living faith,/ generous love,/ and unshakeable hope./ To you, O Jesus,/ whose presence, hidden and victorious,/ fills the history of the world,/ be honour and glory/ for ever and ever./ Amen While my body here decays, May my soul your goodness praise, Safe in paradise with you. Amen. CLOSING PRAYER TO JESUS CHRIST CRUCIFIED Behold, O kind and most sweet Jesus, I cast myself on my knees in Thy sight, and with the most fervent desire of my soul, I pray and beg Thee to impress upon my heart lively sentiments of faith, hope, and charity, with true repentance for my sins, and a firm desire of amendment, while with deep affection and grief of soul I contemplate Thy five most precious Wounds, having before my eyes that which David spoke in prophecy: "They pierced My hands and My feet; they have numbered all My bones." God has loved us from all eternity. So He says: "Remember I first loved you. You had not come to be, nor did the world yet exist, but I loved you already. From all eternity I have loved you."

BLESSED ARE THEY WHO MOURN, for they will be comforted

Happy are you who weep your tears will be turned to joy. Intro Welcome dear friends for the third day of our novena. The Lord has gathered us together as one family to acknowledge together to say “You are our God who cares for us everyday of our live. As we reflect on the beatitudes of Jesus in the life of Mother Clara, we see that she did not always walk on a bed of roses but there were always struggles, difficulties and bitterness in her life. “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, in every painful experience, if you continue, endurance will bring you to your greatest triumph. Life’s painful experience is the real teacher for our learning. Have you ever cried when some one died they who mourn are those • who exhibit patient endurance or acceptance of the deep realities of life as part of God’s providence • who are the opposite of the complaining about the bitter truth and accept the vacuum life remains with. • whose hearts turn to God for mercy and consolation Has any one comforted you in your sorrow, loss or sadness They are also those whose sufferings open their hearts to God • who have hope and faith in the “Transcendent” God who will fill their emptiness • Jesus cried when his best friend Lazarus died. • Jesus wept with the widow of Nain seeing the dead body of her young son • Jesus lamented on the thought of sharing the sight of his passion with Mary To such persons who can cry and also be a comfort for others, • God is present even in the face of suffering • They are saddened at the sufferings, sins and evils in the world. But they look to God as the one who can give meaning and comfort in the face of all these realities. • They accept the truth that Life is not eternal HYMN What a friend we have in Jesus, All our sins and griefs to bear! What a privilege to carry Everything to God in prayer! Oh, what peace we often forfeit, Oh, what needless pain we bear, All because we do not carry Everything to God in prayer! Have we trials and temptations? Is there trouble anywhere? We should never be discouraged— Take it to the Lord in prayer. Can we find a friend so faithful, Who will all our sorrows share? Jesus knows our every weakness; Take it to the Lord in prayer. Are we weak and heavy-laden, Cumbered with a load of care? Precious Savior, still our refuge— Take it to the Lord in prayer. Do thy friends despise, forsake thee? Take it to the Lord in prayer! In His arms He’ll take and shield thee, Thou wilt find a solace there. Blessed Savior, Thou hast promised Thou wilt all our burdens bear; May we ever, Lord, be bringing All to Thee in earnest prayer. Soon in glory bright, unclouded, there will be no need for prayer— Rapture, praise, and endless worship will be our sweet portion there. Without remorse, concern, or care that one has violated the will of God… One will not mourn, who has not repented, One will not truly be converted to the Lord, and will not receive eternal “comfort.” (2 Cor. 7:9-10; ) Have we wept for the death of our souls in sin? God weeps for us when we are stubborn and do not want to return to His House like the Prodigal Father who waited for his Son in tears. Gregory of Nyssa taught that the Beatitudes built one upon another. Thus if we are humble and appreciate that all of our gifts and blessings come from God, we grow in love and gratitude for Jesus Christ our Savior. But this can only produce mourning and regret over our own sins and the sins of this world, for we have hurt the one who has been so good to us. Psalm 30 I will extol you, O Lord, for you have drawn me up, and did not let my foes rejoice over me. O Lord my God, I cried to you for help, and you have healed me. O Lord, you brought up my soul from Sheol, restored me to life from among those gone down to the Pit. Sing praises to the Lord, O you his faithful ones, give thanks to his holy For his anger is but for a moment; his favor is for a lifetime. Weeping may linger for the night, but joy comes with the morning. As for me, I said in my prosperity, "I shall never be moved." By your favor, O Lord, you had established me as a strong mountain you hid your face; I was dismayed. To you, O Lord, I cried, and to the Lord I made supplication: "What profit is there in my death, if I go down to the Pit? Will the dust praise you? Will it tell of your faithfulness? Hear, O Lord, and be gracious to me! O Lord, be my helper!" You have turned my mourning into dancing; you have taken off my sackcloth and clothed me with joy, so that my soul may praise you and not be silent. O Lord my God, I will give thanks to you forever. The promise of this hope, though, comes for me in two lines, the first that "Weeping may linger for the night, but joy comes with the morning." The psalmist is not dishonest about pain, about suffering. But the psalmist also believes that with God there is always hope. It reminds me of the line from the hymn "Great is Thy Faithfulness" in which I have taken some solace in hard times: "strength for today, and bright hope for tomorrow." The second promise of Psalm 30, of course, is that God will turn "mourning into dancing." What a beautiful image, and what a profound hope. My prayer—in the midst of my own discernment, in the midst of this wreck of a saint's feast we call Valentine's Day, and in the midst of arrogant and spiteful attempts to break apart those who love each other—my prayer is, "Dearest God, God of the lover and the Beloved, turn our mourning into dancing." Amen The comfort of Mother Clara is seen in her words: “Valor and courage dear daughter, because this life is only two days and heaven is an eternity for all! When perhaps we feel dejected and dispirited, let us remember heaven and only this hope will encourage us!” “In spite of the most cruel bitterness, contradictions and grief, I see a providential glance of God that watches over us”. “No suffering reaches or touches us without the sight of God”. The Plan of the Master Weaver Our lives are but fine weavings that God and we prepare, Each life becomes a fabric planned and fashioned in God's care. We may not always see just how the weavings intertwine, But we must trust the Master's hand and follow God's design, For God can view the pattern upon the upper side, While we must look from underneath and trust in God to guide... Sometimes a strand of sorrow is added to the plan, And though it's difficult for us, we still must understand That it's God who fills the shuttle; it's God who knows what's best, So we must weave in patience and leave to God the rest... Not till the loom is silent and the shuttles cease to fly Shall God unroll the canvas and explain the reason why -- The dark threads are as needed in the Weaver's skilful hand As the threads of gold and silver in the pattern God has planned.

BLESSED ARE THE MERCIFUL, for they will be shown mercy

Intro Today we shall reflect on the beatitude of mercy. This is an outward characteristic of our human personality. To be merciful is an attitude when our heart goes out to the other. it is an active love that gives us definition and precision to be for the other. a mother is merciful to her child in sickness or in any weakness. . A teacher is merciful to her students who have less opportunities God is merciful to his creation so how true is this beatitude BLESSED ARE THE MERCIFUL, for they will be shown mercy. Who are the merciful in this world? The merciful are those who recognize their own sinfulness and inadequacies and thus are willing to forgive others. This is an outward grace towards others to feel empathy in the right sense, with your attitude to feel for others in their sufferings and struggles Jesus is the one example for forgiveness to reconcile us to himself and to God and to the world Let us hear the words of Jesus on the Cross for each one of us We are the ones who still scourge him with the words of hatred We nail him to the stubbornness and hardness of our lives where we don’t’ want to change. We crown him with our unforgiveness, envy and jealousy He is thirsty for each of us. Can we quench his thirst with the water of forgiveness. Hymn Father forgive them they do not know what they do Father forgive them they do not know how much they hurt me Father forgive them they do not know how sad I am today Here I stand beneath your cross O Jesus and I pray Father forgive them Your blood flowing down from your wounds shall flow into my hurting wounds Soothing the bruises still bleeding I am reaching out to you my Lord with tears that are welling in my eyes I am holding to your body that’s wounded my recent rebels, my heat in pain swells Give me the power to pray your prayer Ch I forgive ( 4) In your name I forgive (3) All those who hurt me all those who broke me In your name I forgive (3) Being merciful is a call to forgiveness • Against keeping grudges and vengeance • responding to the call to heal wounds and soothe pain • the spirit of the “Lord’s Prayer” (Luke 6:36).The mercy of God is the source of motivation to show mercy to others (Mat. 18:21-35).Mercy (in part) is demonstrated by our willingness to forgive It is a contradiction for the Christian to receive God’s mercy and then turn around and show no mercy towards others! Only those who are merciful will receive mercy (Mat 18:34-35; 5:8). James 2:13 For judgment will be merciless to one who has shown no mercy; mercy triumphs over judgment. Isaiah says in verse _15 When you spread out your hands in prayer, I will hide my eyes from you; even if you offer many prayers, I will not listen. Your hands are full of blood; 16 wash and make yourselves clean. Take your evil deeds out of my sight! Stop doing wrong, 17 learn to do right! Seek justice, encourage the oppressed. Defend the cause of the fatherless, plead the case of the widow. 18 "Come now, let us reason together," says the LORD. "Though your sins are like scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they are red as crimson, they shall be like wool. 19 If you are willing and obedient, you will eat the best from the land; Hymn There are times when I have wandered, there are days so steeped in sin, there are times when I have floundered, For there’s darkness deep within. Now’s the time for my returning Far from you I ‘ve strayed away, for your love my heart is longing and that time must be today. Ch Come back my love you call me, come back to me and stay My heart is full of mercy for the sinner who goes astray All the past is now forgotten and with you a new day dawns Though your heart my sin has broken, yet your love goes on and on And I try to hide my feelings, though I know where I belong, Of your love my heart keeps singing in a never ending song For the sins I had committed all my tear have washed away in your love I have confided, in your arms you let me stay but the world keeps always judging, for my heart it does not see only you with eyes so searching see the change of heart in me As Mother Clara would say – • “Suffer one another with charity without being astonished at the defects of your brothers and sisters”. • “ Do not interpret anything badly but take everything in good faith” • “ Mother Clara had a special tenderness for not only her daughters but also the children whom she cared with great love and mercy” Washing of the feet An act resembling the Maundy Thursday gospel to forgive and to seek forgiveness from one another. “Let us approach the tabernacle often conversing with Jesus. Let us consult him and learn of him to forgive and forget offences”. “By the grace of the Holy spirit those who use mercy become in the world of today a sacramental sign transmitting life, love and salvation”. Hymn Gentle woman, quiet light, morning star so strong and bright Gentle mother peaceful dove, teach us wisdom teach us love You were chosen by the father, You were chosen for the Son You were chosen from all women and for women shining one

BLESSED ARE THE MEEK, for they will inherit the land.

The Beatitude calls us to reflect on a four letter word MEEK. As we open the dictionary of life, we see this word being described by many people. Let us see today how Mother Clara will lead us to master this beatitude which is an inward quality of person. To differentiate and define meekness is difficult, but when you experience a meek person you know, this is the one. Close your eyes and imagine a meek person you have seen in your life, you surely will be able to count it on your finger. Meekness is a rare commodity in the quality of human beings, yet we will surely find one. First let us look to the gospels. Let us look at Jesus who had the courage to say I am the meek Lamb of God The person who is poor in spirit, will also be “meek.” Matthew 5:5 blessed are the meek: for they shall inherit the earth.” What is meekness? Meekness is more than just being gentle or considerate it also has to do with having your strength under control. Allow yourself to be under God’s control! Meekness towards God is the act of depending upon God for our salvation. Who are the meek in the eyes of God? The meek are the humble, the lowly, & the gentle • whose attitude is: “In God’s eyes I am nothing, I have nothing, all that I have belongs to God.” • the opposite of the self-righteous • those who recognize a power beyond themselves Who are the meek in the eyes of the world? The meek are those who do not see the need for vengeance or revenge • whose general attitude is one of silent endurance • Who enjoys in the praise of the other with no jealousy or envy and ready to give and accept praises They recognize their own “littleness” in the eyes of God, so they have really nothing to be proud of.Towards others they are understanding, patient, & kind.With a greater acceptance and readiness to forgive and respect with love In coming to God, one must totally surrender self and totally submit to His will, and this requires a meek attitude. Romans 12:2 And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what the will of God is, that which is good and acceptable and perfect. (2 Peter 3:13). Only the meek shall “inherit the earth” where righteousness dwells Hymn p Jesus meek and humble of heart, make my heart like yours 1. Come to me you who are heavily laden and I will give you rest Take my yoke and learn from me I am meek and humble of heart 2. Come to me you who are thirsting for water and I will give you drink Come and stay beneath my cross from my heart flow living streams 3. Follow me why do you walk in the darkness when I’m the light of life? Come to where my Father dwells I’m the Way the Truth and the Life JESUS is meek, is gentle and kind, and exhibits a docility to the Spirit. Obedience and submission to the will of God are the response to the Abba’s love, and thus He was ready to die on the cross to save the world. This meekness brings peace in this world. And thus Jesus took possession of this world Look at the sheep in the field, look at the dove in the sky, look at the fish in the water, none are in extinction, since all have accepted one another and proved to be a symbol of meekness “Be good to one another; receive everything as coming from the hands of God who permits everything for our good”. This is an inward character to be defined Patience, gentleness, respect and humility It is an inward harmony of accepting one’s self and others Let us examine our selves Like a dove as a symbol of gentleness and patience Are we patient with our selves, with our short comings? And do we apply the same scale for others? Have we gentleness in our seeing, hearing, speaking, doing or walking And are we gentle with the life of the other especially in our profession? Like a sheep with respect for one another Do we respect our body, our feelings, our intelligence, our spirituality? And are we tolerant to respect others with their views and ideas? Like the fish as a symbol of humility Are we humble to accept that we do not know everything in our lives sometimes facts about our very own selves? And do we have the courage to praise the missing in our lives as we see it complete in the other? Mother Clara speaks of patience, respect gentleness and humility the mixture of meekness in the words of the beatitudes. Hymn I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever in a city where there comes no night 1.The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not want, daily he supplies every need though I walk in the valley or in blue green pastures and will let no harm befall me Goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life, I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever in a city where there comes no night (2) 2.The Lord looks with favour on the humble of heart; He marks down the proud from afar, though I live in the midst of affliction and trials, He preserves my life against my foes. 3.In the presence of the angels I will bless you O Lord, and adore before your holy temple, on the days I called He answered my cry, He increased the strength of my soul

BLESSED ARE THEY WHO HUNGER AND THIRST FOR RIGHTEOUSNESS for they will be satisfied.

Today we come to the beatitude that gives us so much dynamism to live for justice and righteousness. This was the reason why many do not appreciate Christianity nor Christ. Justice and righteousness are big words in the world and society. But even a small movement can move the whole world. Nonviolence of Gandhiji gained India’s freedom. A fragile woman like Megha Patkar can move the government in thinking of dams products. The small ruder controls the way and direction of the ship. A small bridle controls the horse. Let us see how Mother Clara who in the convent challenged the world to be just in the footsteps of the Master Jesus Matt 5:6 Blessed are they which do hunger and thirst after righteousness: for they shall be filled. Once a person “empties” of pride, sin, and self, then they can be “filled.” This is the reward of letting go and letting God Humility, godly sorrow, and meekness leads to a desire to be right with God! This is an outward attitude to belong to Jesus. But to stand for righteousness is challenging the very nature of God who is just. So if you are on God’s side who can be against you. St Paul says Corinthians 5:21 He made Him who knew no sin to be sin on our behalf, that we might become the righteousness of God in Him. Gal 3:27 To gain the righteousness found in Christ, one must obey His gospel and continue to obey the truth or “practice righteousness Ch The world stands in need of liberation my Lord It still has to feel your power The blind and the deaf the dumb and the maimed All need to feel your healing touch The world stands in need of liberation my Lord It still has to learn to love. There are those who have eyes but refuse to see Their inhumanity to man There are those who have ears but refuse to hear The cries of those in agony. There are those who have mouths but refuse to speak Against injustice done to men There are those who have hands but refuse to reach them out In love and charity. There are those who have talents they do not use To build a true community And we know that we all have the talent to love But leave it buried in our selves. Who are the ones hungry and thirsty for righteousness They are the prophets of God • to work for justice • not passively by just avoiding evil • but actively by obedience and doing good • and desiring to do God’s will And what is God’s will in justice and righteousness It means • To strive for wholeness despite our hurdles and failures • To act with the right intention/motivation for others • To follow equality in all our dealings and transactions Those who are hungry and thirsty for righteousness are the people who know how to share and give what is due to others. In relationships they are always fair, standing up for the truth. In the words of Mother Clara saying “The Sun Of justice is eclipsed for a moment, but it is to re appear later with greater splendor”. Great courage, the divine Captain goes before us, animating us to struggle with valor, perseverance and justice The Love of God has two wings: the one to the right is the love of God, that to the left love of neighbor: as the bird cannot fly with one wing only, so one without the love of God above all things and love of neighbor as one self, will certainly not enter heaven Let us hear Mother Clara calling each one of us in different situations I hear the cries of the poor crushed by the illiteracy, ignorance, exploitation, lack of opportunities and unequal distribution of the resources… Whom shall I send? Here I am Lord, Is it you Lord?I have heard you calling in the night, I will go Lord if you lead me I will hold your people in my heart I hear the cries of the oppression of culture, intolerant to humanity, with inferiority complexes between Gods people involving terrorism and racism… Whom shall I send? Here I am Lord, Is it you Lord?I have heard you calling in the night, I will go Lord if you lead me I will hold your people in my heart I hear the groans of injustice, of a lack of sharing even with the little we have, a little water, a little air to breathe, a little land to live on… Whom shall I send? Here I am Lord, Is it you Lord?I have heard you calling in the night, I will go Lord if you lead me I will hold your people in my heart LET US PRAY 1. FOR THE UNBORN CHILD- THE ABORTUS 2. FOR THE CHILD- ON THE STREET ORPHANED AND EXPOSED TO THE BRUTALITY OF SOCIETY 3. FOR THE ADOLESCENCE – IN THE SCHOOLS COPING WITH STRESSES AND VICES SUCH AS DRUGS 4. FOR THE TEENAGERS FACED WITH UNEMPLOYMENT, ILLTIERACY AND LACK OF OPPORTUNITIES 5. FOR THE WOMAN WHO DOES NOT HAVE A WORD IN CHOOSING HER VOCATION OR PROFESSION 6. FOR THOSE WHO HAVE TO EARN THEIR BREAD BY USING THEIR FLESH AND BLOOD 7. FOR THE ELDERLY WHO ARE TREATED AS A BURDEN AT THE END OF THEIR LIVES

POOR IN SPIRIT AS MOTHER CLARA

As we begin the novena to Mother Clara we will reflect on the essence of our lives. Being Franciscan Hospitaller we are called to live the spirit of beatitudes in our daily lives through our thoughts, words and deeds. Let us peep into the Gospel and together with Mother Clara let us hear what Jesus wants to tell each one of us. Let us climb the mountain of the Lord to listen to a way of life He is calling us to. Jesus outlined eight formulas, those that we commonly call today “The Eight Beatitudes.” These are found in the 5th Chapter of the Gospel of Matthew. They are like a “preamble” to the Sermon on the Mount (Matthew Chapters 5, 6, & 7). Beatitudes comes from the Latin word “beatus,” meaning happy. So beatitudes refers to those ways or “attitudes” that we must possess in order to attain true happiness. Let us go over these eight secrets or formulas of happiness – and discover the beauty and the wisdom of Jesus’ mission to live our life in paradox to the world. BLESSED ARE THE POOR IN SPIRIT, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. This is a call for inward renewal Who are the poor in spirit… who are the poor of Yahweh? Let us look at Mary the Mother of Jesus Poor in spirit also means like Mary  She is conscious of her need of God. Do You Need God?  She accepts everything coming from God, with empty hands  She is the opposite of self-exaltation  She sings the magnificat of her life. I delight greatly in the Lord, my soul rejoices in my God – 2 1. For He has clothed me with garments of salvation, And arrayed with me in a robe of righteousness (2) 2. For he has sent me to heal the broken hearted And proclaim to prisoners that they are free (2) 3. For God’s own spirit is poured upon his servant, He’s anointed me with oil of gladness(2) Poor in spirit can also mean like Francis  who continuously finds his strength in God alone  who has an attitude of gratefulness towards God who is the source of all blessings flowing into a life of generosity and service  They are also the people to whom nothing is more important than God. They rely on God and God alone for everything. Good Lady Poverty, come be my bride Forever you and me walk side by side Teach me your wisdom, lead me your way Show me the path you take and Walk with Christ each day Good Lady Poverty, I sing your praise, St Francis blessed one, has walked your ways He sang your virtues; you were his prize, Good lady poverty an angel in disguise Poor in spirit means like Mother Clara • who found her total dependence on God • who putting her complete trust and confidence in him • who saw the hand of God in my life It is these who are my people (4) 1. The child who is hungry for bread and warmth The homeless child lacking care and love Looking for someone who would wish it well Capable of being a father and mother. 2. The patient who suffers, who feels lonely the patient who longs for a caressing gesture Looking for the one who would soothe his pain who’ll be able to care and treat him with love. 3. A world of the rich, but empty handed, a world of the poor , of daily bread, Looking for one who would feel their hunger A surrendered life to transform society In the words of Mother Clara:-  A providential glance of God watches over us.  Nothing happens without divine permission.  Let us work with the right intention of pleasing only GOD, otherwise, our works would be empty  My daughter is the one who will be at the side of the unprotected, will be the voice of the voiceless, will be an evangelical witness of Lady poverty through her thoughts, words and deeds In Coming to God, One Must Be “Poor in Spirit.” • You must humble yourself and God will then exalt you (James 4:10). • Only those who are “poor in spirit” will God fellowship (Isa.57:15). • For thus says the high and exalted One who lives forever, whose name is Holy, ‘I dwell on a high and holy place, and also with the contrite and lowly of spirit in order to revive the spirit of the lowly and to revive the heart Of the contrite.’” • The “kingdom of heaven” belongs to the “poor in spirit.” So what is God calling you to be… The Poor in spirit… The Anawim of Yahweh God’s cared people… To recognize the poor in spirit we have to be one. Let us open our eyes to discover the poor in spirit within our selves

Vocation Holy Hour

Introduction: Most Holy Trinity Father Son and Holy Spirit living within our hearts we adore you and praise you. Thank you Lord for you have created us in your own image and likeness. We thank you for the wonder of our being we surrender our life with all its, past present and future. Oh most Holy Trinity may you be praised and adore in our life and in the life of every human being. Be still and know that I am God (3) It is in the stillness of ones heart that God is experienced in its fullness. The depth of God’s love is easy to be experienced than to be expressed. Dear Sisters as we silence ourselves let each fibre of our being be touched by God’s love. Let us allow ourselves to take leap in to his ocean of love. Let us ask Jesus to keep us in tune with his Spirit. So that we may follow Him faithfully till the end of time. Let us give an expression to this feeling by listening to a bhajan. Cassette The theme of today’s vocation Holy hour is “Accept your uniqueness”, our life belongs to God because he is the giver of it. If our life is extended by a few days it means that God’s plan regarding our life has not yet reached its completion. We may love our life but when see the life of other people we must be able to be happy with them and be ready to help them if necessary. All of us are only pilgrims passing through this world. We have many opportunities to use our gifts of mind and heart to bring about God’s Kingdom to our broken and fragmented world. In the world we are only for the time being. Story from the book. Once upon a time a farmer ploughing his field came across a beautiful framed mirror. It was an age when mirrors were not commonly used. Mirrors were used only by the rich and the famous. The farmer had never seen a mirror before. He cleaned the mirror and was astonished to behold the handsome face of his father in his youth. He ran to the parish priest and showed him the mirror and said, “Look at the portrait of my father. He looks so handsome.” The parish priest, who had never seen a mirror before, took the mirror and saw himself and exclaimed, “But Leo this is not your father, this is the portrait of my saintly predecessor. See how Holy he looks!” The farmer took the mirror from the priest and said, “But he looks like my father.” At that moment, the farmer’s wife entered the room and she took the mirror in her hands and looked at herself in the mirror, but in her ignorance she screamed. “Who is this funny woman you are gaping at? Are you having another woman in your life and such an ugly creature?! Each one of them in the story was looking at himself and herself in different ways. One looked at himself as holy and another as someone handsome. The person who saw herself as ugly was angry, upset and deeply hurt. Deep inner silence and self – awareness leads to a loving acceptance of who we really are. The lack of acceptance leads to depression and other related problems, like anger, hatred, envy and jealousy. Do I look at myself as someone beautiful or ugly, as useful or useless, as strong or weak? I am constantly threatened by people who appear to be smarter than I am or who seem to be more gifted. The more we are able to observe ourselves lovingly and accept our physical intellectual, emotional and spiritual structure, the more open to life we become and enjoy living our life to the full. Cassette Time for reflection Two men went fishing. One was an experienced fisherman, the other wasn’t. Every time the experienced fisherman caught a big fish, he put it in his ice chest to keep it fresh. Whenever the inexperienced fisherman caught a big fish, he threw it back. The experienced fisherman watched this go on all day and finally got tired of seeing the man waste good fish. “Why do you keep throwing back all the big fish you catch?” he asked. The inexperienced fisherman replied, “I only have a small frying pan”. Sometimes, like that fisherman, we throw away the big plans, big dreams, the big opportunities that God gives us. We look at ourselves as a small frying pan. Our faith is too small. God asks us to learn to look at ourselves in a big way. We have to learn from our Blessed Mother Mary to look at ourselves as God’s wonderful creation. Mary could exclaim: “My soul glories the Lord and my spirit exults in God my Saviour. He has looked upon his servant in her lowliness and people forever will call me blessed. The mighty One has done great things for me, Holy is his name!” (Lk 1:46-49) Mary in her humility was able to accept the fact that God had created her for a great purpose and she could proclaim that God had done and was doing great things for her. Self – acceptance is the act of befriending ourselves and being happy with who we are now. We can also call it self – love or love for self. When the Pharisees asked Jesus, “Teacher, which is the most important commandment in the Law?” Jesus replied, “You shall love the Lord your God, with all your heart, with all your soul and with all you strength. This is the first and most important of the commandments. But there is another one very similar to it: you shall love your neighbour as you love yourself” (Mt.22:35-39; Lk.10:25-27; Mk.12:28-31). Self – awareness helps us to accept the best of what we are and also our limitations. We learn to approve who we are, all parts of our being, even the parts we do not like. Acceptance means being nonjudgmental toward ourselves. Jesus does not ask us to hate ourselves; instead he says love others as you love yourself. We cannot really love others until we have accepted ourselves and learnt to love ourselves. This is a triple commandment of love: Love for God, love for self and love for others” Love and acceptance of self is very different from selfishness. Love for self is based on humility. I humbly look at myself as a beautiful gift of God. Like Mary, I am able to see the good things God has done for me and does through me. Selfishness is based on hatred for self. Love for self or loving self – acceptance opens me to look at the beauty and goodness of others. Once we lovingly accept ourselves we are not threatened by others - their beauty intelligence, talents or even material possessions. This feeling fills us with a sense of self – satisfaction that enables one to bring out the best in us. It is said that “If you feel inferior to someone else, it is because of your own beliefs”. Cassette Do you know who the happiest people are? Those who just accept ourselves the way God made them who learn to be happy with what they have and not care what others think. Struggling to live up to ideas that you think are expected of you by your peers puts a real weight on you but there is freedom in humility. If you were honest I think you’d admit that you really admit that you really admire people who have the guts to be themselves to live right, live healthy and have their priorities straight. God loves you the way he made you and you are beautiful in his eyes. We are all unique and special in his eyes. There is no ugliness no matter what we look like. Building self esteem often has a lot to do with your relationship with God. The closer you draw to him and the more at peace you’ll be the more relaxed you’ll be if you are closer to the Lord. You are beautiful because his love and his light shine through. Spend some time in silence and let the Lord speak to you about yourself. Ask him to tell you how he sees you. What your inner beauties are what your inner strengths are what these gifts and abilities that he likes to bring forth that he likes to see you shine for others Let him encourage and then be encouraged by him Prayer: You could have made me perfect Jesus but you did not. Instead you made me just the way you wanted me, to doubt that is to doubt your love, but to realize that is to find perfect peace, security and rest in your love. Take me now just as I am in your heart of hearts. Cassette Lord Jesus we praises and we thank you for you infinite love towards us. Thank you Lord for the gifts of our vocation you have called us to be your own and to send forth. Thank you for calling us from many and keeping us safe as the apple of your eye. We pray for our Congregational family each and every member of our providence. Strengthen us Lord in our vocation grant us good and holy vocation. Inspire the young hearts to respond to your calling bless all the parents to bring up their children in God’s love Vocation Prayer O Jesus good shepherded accept our praise and humble thanks for the vocations which through your spirit you have continually given your church. Assist all Bishops, Priests and missionaries and all consecrated persons, let them be example of a truly evangelical life, watch over the youth in our families and our communities. Grant them promptitude and generosity in following you direct your glance on them today and design to call them give all those called the strength to abandon all for your love and choose you and you alone. Hearken to our prayers o Christ through the intercession of Mary your mother queen and the apostles Amen.

Prayer Asking For The Canonization Of Mother Maria Clara Of The Child Jesus

Most Holy Trinity, Father, Son and Holy Spirit, for your greater honour and glory, for the good of the Church and the world, deign to glorify here on earth your servant Mother Maria Clara of the Child Jesus who in her life time dedicated herself to care of the children the poor and all those who suffered. Adorn her Lord with the aureole of glory, which the Holy Church places before us as models of virtue to imitate and listen to supplication, which through her intercession we address to you granting us the grace we ask for. To You all honour and glory for ever and ever. Amen. Novena THROUGH THE INTERCESSION OF MADRE MARIA CLARA DO MENINO JESUS 1° Day To You all honour and glory for ever and ever. Amen. Lord God, You who “sustain those who fear You and will never forget Your covenant” (Ps 110),grant that we may seek You with our whole heart and with firmness in faith. Through the intercession of Your Servant, Mother Clara, teach us to raise our eyes to You and trust fully in Your mercy. Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit, As it was in the beginning is now, ever shall be, forever and ever. Amen. Lord Jesus, You who have said “Come to me all you who labour and are burdened, and I will give you rest” (Mt 11:28) look upon the weight of our faults and deliver us from all evil. Through the intercession of Your Servant, who found in You, strength and comfort in tribulations, open Your heart to our prayer and grant us what we ask for. Glory be to the Father… Lord, You whose fidelity was evident in the life of Your Servant, Mother Clara, by nourishing her in Faith, Hope and Charity, sustain us with Your power, so that, like her, we may motivate all our works with a great spirit of faith and sacrifice and may accept Your will in the present situation. Our Father... Glory be to the Father... To You all honour and all glory... 2º Day To You all honour and glory for ever and ever. Amen. Lord, Father and Creator, who “knows the inmost of our being and observe all our steps” (Ps.138), do not permit that we may withdraw from your presence, for, without You we can do nothing: help us with Your grace and come to our rescue in the present need. Glory be to the Father… Lord Jesus, You have said: “ask and you shall receive, seek and you shall find, knock and it shall be opened” (Mt 7:7). Through the humble and supplicant heart of Your Servant, Mother Clara, we knock at Your door. Having recourse to the infinite goodness of Your Heart, in it we seek remedy in our affliction. Glory be to the Father… Lord, in whom Mother Clara gave herself in filial trust, like a child in the arms of her Mother, we give to you this preoccupation of ours, believing like her, that, “a Providential Glance of God watches over us”. Our Father... Glory be to the Father... To You all honour and all glory... 3° Day To You all honour and glory for ever and ever. Amen. Lord, Holy Father, who "protect the simple and save the feeble" (Ps. 114) give us a heart that Is able to have pity on those who are weak and needy. In the example of Your Servant, Mother Clara who dedicated herself so much to the care of the poor, the children and those who suffer, deliver us from our egoism and grant that we may dedicate our lives to works that are pleasing to You. Glory be to the Father… Lord Jesus, You who have said: "whatever you do to the least of these, you do it unto Me" (Mt. 25:45), guide our actions in favour of the needy so that, seeing You in them, we may also merit to be attended to in our present need. Glory be to the Father… You, who through the word of Mother Clara ask us: "to practise charity with the greatest perfection", give us strength and courage to live a life that is more in conformity with the commandment of love. Through the intercession of Your Servant, turn towards us Your glance, and grant us the grace we ask for. Our Father... Glory be to the Father... To You all honour and all glory... 4° Day To You all honour and glory for ever and ever. Amen. Lord, "You who are the Sun and Shield, and do not refuse anything, to those who walk uprightly" (Ps 84) let the light of Your face, shine upon us. Just as You illuminated and strengthened Your Servant, Mother Clara, enliven our spirit to act righteously and never to drift away from Your path. Glory be to the Father… Lord Jesus, You who have said: "He who wishes to be the first among you, will be the servant of all" (Mt. 23:11) look upon the witness of life of Your Servant who served everyone through self-forgetfulness. In Your example awaken in us, the spirit of helping all those who are in need. Glory be to the Father… Holy Father, You who "are pleased with the efforts of the humble and of all those who work with love and for love", accept our struggles, our works and the desire of loving and serving You. In virtue of the merits of Your Servant, listen to Your petitions and grant us the joy of obtaining Your graces. Our Father... Glory be to the Father... To You all honour and all glory... 5° Day To You all honour and glory for ever and ever. Amen. Lord, "You grant us life and complete what You have begun with our help" (Ps. 137). Through your goodness, do not abandon the work of Your hands, shower upon us the blessing of salvation and peace and grant us the grace which we ask you at this hour. Glory be to the Father… Lord Jesus Christ, You who have said: " He who remains faithful till the end, will be saved" (Mt. 24:13), remind us of Your fidelity and do not permit us to be shaken due to our weakness and discouragement. Through the intercession of Your Servant, Mother Clara, who never gave in to discouragement in prayer, in the good to be done and in all the adversities, come to our aid and give heed to our prayers. Glory be to the Father… Lord, You who encourage us with the words of Mother Clara "do not be overcome by difficulties", grant that, in Your example, fighting the good fight, we may remain faithful and accept with serenity the designs of your will. Our Father... Glory be to the Father... To You all honour and all glory... 6° Day To You all honour and glory for ever and ever. Amen. Lord our God "Many and marvellous are the wonders you work upon us" (Ps. 39). Through the intercession of Your Servant, Mother Clara, through whom You revealed to many Your love, give heed to our prayer, and once again manifest Your goodness, granting us the grace we ask for. Glory be to the Father… Lord Jesus, You who ask us "Be perfect as Your heavenly Father is perfect" (Mt. 5:48), enkindle in us the desire to imitate You. In the example of Mother Clara who filing the edges of her defects, went on perfecting herself ever more, grant us a good heart and the grace of obtaining what we ask of You. Glory be to the Father… Lord, You who motivated Mother Clara to live with an ever grateful heart, advising us to "be generous towards You, as You have been generous towards us", through Your intercession, listen to our supplication in Your great generosity. Our Father... Glory be to the Father... To You all honour and all glory... 7° Day To You all honour and glory for ever and ever. Amen. Lord, You who "save the humble people and are the protector of those who place their trust in You" (Ps. 17) instil in us the spirit of humility. Through the total surrender lived by Your Servant Mother Clara, who hoped for everything from Your hands, increase our trust in Your Fatherly love. Glory be to the Father… Lord Jesus, You who have said: "He who exalts, will be humbled and he who humbles himself will be exalted" (Mt. 23:12) for the love with which Your Servant bore the most excruciating humiliations, make us understand that, true glory lies in Your Cross. Glory be to the Father… You who encourage us by the simple and humble life of Your Servant, Mother Clara, who never excused herself and never spoke ill of anyone, through her intercession, turn your glance upon our petitions and listen to our prayer. Our Father... Glory be to the Father... To You all honour and all glory... 8° Day To You all honour and glory for ever and ever. Amen. Lord, You "are good and patient, teach us Your paths and guide us in Your truth" (Ps. 24). Through your mercy and fidelity, protect us from the snares of evil, in order to journey in Your presence. Glory be to the Father… Lord Jesus, You have said: "All those who do the will of my Father, are brother, my sister and my mother (Mt. 12:50) help us to faithfully fulfil that which you ask of us. In attention to the fidelity with which Mother Clara followed the Gospel, grant that we may conform our lives to Your life. Glory be to the Father… Lord, confiding in the word of Your Servant, Mother Clara "If we allow divine will to reign over ours, God will fill us with blessings and will make us experience His peace", exercise upon us, your rights of a Father and take possession of our hearts. Through the intercession of Your Servant, who lived the peace of Your will, shower Your blessings upon us and grant us the grace we ask for. Our Father... Glory be to the Father... To You all honour and all glory... 9° Day To You all honour and glory for ever and ever. Amen. Lord "those who love Your law, live in great peace and nothing worries them" (Ps. 118). Blessed be God for Your Word, which fills us with joy and peace that, radiates from those who live it whole heartedly. Grant us the peace, which the world cannot give, and the grace to always accept Your will. Glory be to the Father… Lord Jesus, You have said: "I give you my peace, my peace I give you" (Mt. 14:27) grant that we may live in peace and extend to all our pardon. Through the intercession of Mother Clara, who was solicitous in spreading Peace and Goodwill, peacemakers, make us meek in order that we may resemble Your Most Holy Heart, ever more. Glory be to the Father… Lord, You comfort us with the word of Mother Clara "the true peace of soul, gives us strength and courage in the midst of the sacrifices of life", encourage us with Your grace in the problems of this hour and through the intercession of Your Servant, grants us what we ask for. Our Father... Glory be... To You all honour and glory for ever and ever. Amen.

BEGINNING THE NOVENA TO MOTHER CLARA IN THE SPIRIT OF THE BEATITUDES

INTRODUCTION We come to celebrate a life that is transformed, to produce life in other lives. The birth of Mother Maria Clara do menino Jesus is like the grain of wheat, giving fruit through the strength of the Spirit. The Inner sap, spurring generosity in those who follow her vocation and ideal see the birth of a congregation dedicated to the charism of Hospitality in Joy and Simplicity… But the Deep footprints of the life of Mother Clara even today, challenge us to form the path of the road less traveled for many, who continue her work through the mercy and compassion of God. Only a heart that is poor is available for others. To attend to them, to look after the children, help the elderly, welcome the orphans. This is a job that does not permit this Sister of the poor to rest. “She possessed a tender and kind heart, very compassionate and charitable. It could be said that it was in intimate contact with the heart of Christ”". This morning as we celebrate her birth anniversary let us rejoice as daughters of the one true Mother who has sown in our hearts the divine love for Christ who gave up everything to belong to him. We have a way of Life but she shows us the passion to live it in all its adversaries and in all its goodness. Those who have nothing of their own have to trust in Providence. Precisely, in these extreme situations, the hand of God opens out generously “satiating those who place their trust in Him”. No wonder Mother Clara would exclaim” Nothing happens in this world without divine providence”. We rejoice as Franciscan Hospitallers together with all our sisters all over the world. we also celebrate the feast of the Immaculate Hospitaller, entrusting Mary Our Mother with the missionary zeal to live our common life for the good of the church and society. As Her daughters we try to make this world happy, through the blessings of the Gospel, lived and proclaimed by Jesus in the spirit of the beatitudes of Humanizing Love and Care. The Plan of the Master Weaver Our lives are but fine weavings that God and we prepare, Each life becomes a fabric planned and fashioned in God's care. We may not always see just how the weavings intertwine, But we must trust the Master's hand and follow God's design, For God can view the pattern upon the upper side, While we must look from underneath and trust in God to guide... Sometimes a strand of sorrow is added to the plan, And though it's difficult for us, we still must understand That it's God who fills the shuttle; it's God who knows what's best, So we must weave in patience and leave to God the rest... Not till the loom is silent and the shuttles cease to fly Shall God unroll the canvas and explain the reason why -- The dark threads are as needed in the Weaver's skilful hand As the threads of gold and silver in the pattern God has planned

WAY OF THE CROSS 3

Opening prayer: The road to Calvary stretches long and lonely before Me. I could turn back. But I know that for me there must be no turning back. I must do my Father’s will. Is there no one to share that pain? Not even you? 1st Station They Bring Me to Pilate. V: We adore and praise you, Lord Jesus Christ. R: By your cross and death you give us life. (To be said at every station) Please don’t be like Pilate and choose sin and your own way instead of Me and My commandments. Remember you are Mine. So don’t try to fool yourself and say you didn’t sin. One Pilate is enough! R: Have mercy on us, O Lord ; have mercy on us. May the souls of the faithful departed, through the mercy of God rest in peace. Amen (To be said at every station) 2nd Station They Bring My Cross to Me Crosses are always heavy. You have to pick them up and carry to them. Think of Me when yours comes along. I’ll help you to carry yours if you’ll ask me. 3rd Station I Fall…….and Hard, Lying here flat on my face I know now why I could not stand up any longer. But I can’t stay quite so heavy. May be you helped. You certainly did if you ever carried your cross cheerfully. 4th Station I Meet My Mother My Mother is there in the crowed looking straight at Me. But she is not crying. She loves you and wants me to save you. She wants to do God’s will. She wants me to do what God the Father wants me to do. You also do the same. 5th Station Simon of Cyrene helps Me I need your help to save souls. Remember I will help you as Simon helps me. I need………….. Your prayer and scarifies and penance, I should like to think of you as another Simon of Cyrene. 6th Station Veronica wipes My Face Seeing My swollen eyes, bruished face and tangled hair, most of my friends have run away. But that does not stop Veronica. Some day……some face ….some friend may need you as I neede Veronica. 7th Station I fall Again Big sins….Many sins ….may throw you down even after you have been good for a long time. But try to remember me here on the ground. My voice and my hands will come to lift you up. 8th Station I speak to some Women who are Crying Suffering will go on in the world. I want these good mothers …and you….to think of this. They are My children when they suffer, I suffer; you ought to be able to se me when you are there. 9th Station This is My Last Fall I want all men….and all women and all children of all ages to remember this: Even after they might have sinned and sinned, I want them to know that I still love them. 10th Station They get Me Ready for Crucifixion All that I own is gone now… even my clothing. I am thinking of you, of the time e you might lose your parents, your health and your friends. I know how you will feel if any of these things come to you. But don’t be afraid. Think of Me. 11th Station They fasten Me to the Cross. A Cross is not worth much unless hold on to it. ‘I am not much interested in how big your cross is. The big thing is how well you carry it…every day. Hang on to your cross… whatever it is. 12th Station I think of You, My first thoughts were, always for sinners. I love them I despise their sins but I love them if they only knew, it! Now My last thoughts on earth are for them. That is why I must pray for sinners now “Father forgive them for they don’t know what they are doing.” 13th Station Mary with Jesus in Her Arms. Jesus is very close to me now, just as He was in the cave where He was born. I pray, here with Jesus on my knees for those mothers who will offer their sons and daughters to Him. What a privilege to work for Jesus sake! 14th Station Jesus in the Tomb I am buried: buried with all the sins of the world. But I know I will arise. I will conquer My enemies. One day you will be buried in the earth. But the heaven that I opened will be yours, if you are dead to your sins. 15th Station The Resurrection I am alive I have been raised from death and will never die again: death has no power over me. You too must be dead to sin but alive to Me, union with Me.

Celebrating Evening Prayer With ST.FRANCIS – MAN OF THE HOLY EUCHARIST

1. INVITATION TO PRAY (Stand) Leader O God come to our aid Al O Lord make haste to help us Glory be… Leader Above all else, St.Francis was a disciple of Jesus Christ. “No human tongue”, wrote St.Bonaventure, “could describe the passionate love with which Francis burned for Christ, his spouse” (M.L.ix. 1- 2). This devotion led him to the Holy Eucharist, which he saw as a unique meeting place with him, where he came as near as it is possible, to see and touch Him. Following Francis’ example, we offer this evening sacrifice of praise, adoring the Lord Jesus present in mystery, in his holy Body and Blood. 2. Hymn (where possible, entrance procession, exposition of the Sacrament, and incensation) All Sing Hail our Saviour’s glorious Body, Which his Virgin Mother bore; Hail the Blood which, shed for sinners, Did a broken world restore; Hail the sacrament most holy, Flesh and Blood of Christ adore. To the Virgin, for man’s healing, His own Son the Father sends; From the Father’s love proceeding Sower, seed and Word descends; Wondrous life of Word incarnate With his greatest wonder ends! On the paschal evening see him With the chosen twelve recline, To the old law still obedient In its feast of love divine; Love divine, the new law giving, Gives himself as Bread and wine! By his word the Word almighty Makes of bread his flesh indeed; Wine becomes his very life – blood: Faith God’s living Word must heed! Faith alone may safely guide us Where the senses cannot lead! Come adore this wondrous presence; Bow to Christ, the source of grace! Here is kept the ancient promise Of God’s earthly dwelling place! Sight is blind before God’s glory, Faith alone may see his face! Glory be to God the Father, Praise to his co – equal Son, Adoration to the Spirit, Bond of love in Godhead one! Blest be God by all creation Joyously while ages run! 3. PSALMODY Antiphoner 1 “It was the Father’s will that his blessed and glorious Son… should offer himself by his own blood as a sacrifice and victim on the altar of the cross” (St.Francis: Letters) Alternate The Lord’s oracle to you, my Lord, Sit at my right hand and I will make your enemies a footstool for you. The Lord will force all your enemies under the sway of your sceptre in Zion. Royal dignity was yours from the day you were born, on the holy mountains, royal from the womb, from the dawn of your earliest days. The Lord has sworn an oath which he never will retract, You are a priest of the order of malchizedek, and forever. The Lord is at your right hand. When he grows angry he shatters kings, he gives the nations their deserts, smashing their skulls, he heaps the wide world with corpses Drinking from the stream as he goes, he can hold his head high in victory. Glory be… As it was in the beginning… (Silent prayer) PSALM PRAYER Jesus, gloriously risen Lord. I adore you. Help me to love you more and more, and by worshipping you in the holy mystery of your Body and Blood, share in your victory over evil. Antiphoner 1 “It was the Father’s will that his blessed and glorious Son… should offer himself by his own blood as a sacrifice and victim on the altar of the cross” Anitphoner 2 “In this world there can be nothing of the Most High Himself that we can possess and contemplate with our own eyes, except his Body and Blood, his Name and Words”. (St.Francis: Letters) Alternate Alleluia! verse I love! For the Lord listen to my entreaty; He bends down to listen to me when I call. The Lord is righteous and merciful, our God is tender hearted; The Lord defends the simple, he saved me when I was brought to my knees. I will walk in the Lord’s presence in the land of the living. I have faith, even when I say, ‘I am completely crushed’. In my alarm I declared, ‘No man can be relied on”. What return can I make to the Lord for all his goodness to me? I will offer libations to my saviour, invoking the name of the Lord. I will pay what I vowed to the Lord: may his whole nation be present! The death of the devout coasts the Lord dear, Lord, I am your servant your servant, son of a pious mother. you undo my fetters. I will offer you the thanksgiving sacrifice, invoking the name of the Lord. I will walk in the Lord’s presence in the land of the living. I will pay what I vowed to the Lord, may his whole nation be present, In the courts of the house of the Lord, in your heart, Jerusalem. Glory be… As it was in the beginning… (silent prayer) PSALM PRAYER Lord, in the Eucharist we are able to offer you a ‘perfect and living sacrifice’, an oblation that is worthy of your holiness. May our whole lives be directed to this summit of all human activity. Antiphoner 2 “In this world there can be nothing of the Most High Himself that we can possess and contemplate with our own eyes, except his Body and Blood, his name and Words”. Antiphoner 1 “What wonderful majesty! What stupendous condescension! O sublime humility! O humble sublimity! That the Lord of the whole universe… should humble himself like this and hide under the form of a little bread for our salvation” Alternate His state was divine, verses yet he did not cling to his equality with God but emptied himself to assume the condition of a slave, and became as men are; and being as all men are, he was humble yet, even to accepting death, death on a cross. But God raised him high And gave him a name which is above all other names so that all beings in the heavens, on earth and in the underworld, should bend the knee at the name of Jesus and that every tongue should acclaim Jesus Christ as Lord, to the glory of God the Father. Glory be… As it was in the beginning… (silent prayer) PSALM PRAYER Lord, may your holy Body and Blood be for us a source of strength, that we may follow your example of humility, mercy and love. Antiphoner 1 “What wonderful majesty! What stupendous condescension! O sublime humility! O humble sublimity! That the Lord of the whole universe… should humble himself like this and hide under the form of a little bread for our salvation” 4.THE WORD OF GOD Reader 1 St.Francis appreciated the intimate connection between the Word of God in the Scriptures, and his presence in the Holy sacrament. He treated both with the utmost reverence and respect. A READING FROM THE BOOK OF PROVERBS (9:1-6) Wisdom has built herself a house, she has erected her seven pillars, she has slaughtered her beasts, prepared her wine, she has laid her table. she has dispatched her maidservants and proclaimed from the city’s heights: ‘Who is ignorant? Let him step this way’. To the fool she says, ‘Come and eat my bread’ drink the wine I have prepared! Leave your folly and you will live, walk in the ways of perception’. This is the Word of the Lord. All Thanks be to God. THE TEACHING Reader 2 FROM THE ADMONITIONS OF ST.FRANCIS No.1 “Every day Jesus humble himself just as he did when he came from his heavenly throne into the Virgin’s womb: everyday he comes to us and let us see him in abjection, when he descends from the bosom of the Father into the hands of the priest at the altar. He shows himself to us in this sacred bread just as he once appeared to his apostles in real flesh. With their own eyes they saw only his flesh, but they believed that he was God, because the contemplated him with the eyes of the Spirit. We too with our own eyes, see only bread and wine: but we must see further and firmly believe that his is the most holy Body and Blood, living and true” Here ends the reading All Thanks be to God 5. THE SONG OF MARY (Stand) Antiphoner 1 “Our Lord Jesus Christ is the glorious Word of the Father, whose coming the Father made known by Gabriel the Archangel to the glorious and blessed Virgin Mary” (St.Francis:Letters) Alternate And Mary said: verses My soul proclaim the greatness of the Lord and my spirit exults in God my saviour; because he has looked upon hid lowly handmaid. Yes, from this day forward all generations Will call me blessed, for the Almighty has done great things for me. Holy is his name, and his mercy reaches from age to age for those who fear him. He has shown the power of his arm, He has routed the proud of heart. He has pulled down princes from their thrones and exalted the lowly. The hungry he has filled with good things the rich sent empty away. He has come to the help of Israel his servant, mindful of his mercy. according to the promise he made to our ancestor of his mercy to Abraham and to his descendants forever. Glory be… As it was in the beginning… Antiphoner 1 “Our Lord Jesus Christ is the glorious Word of the Father, whose coming the Father made known by Gabriel the Archangel to the glorious and blessed Virgin Mary”. 6. THE PRAYERS THE DIVINE PRAISES OF ST.FRANCIS (Kneel) Leader Some times after the awe – inspiring events on La Verna Francis said to Br.Leo: “Bring me some parchment and ink for I want to write down the words of the Lord, and his praises which I have meditated upon in my heart” This is what Francis wrote: You are holy Lord, the only God, and your deeds are wonderful All You are stromg, You are great, You are most high, You are almighty. You, holy Father, are King of heaven and earth. Leader You are three and one, Lord God, all good. You are good, all good, supreme good. Lord God, living and true. All You are love, You are wisdom, You are humility, You are endurance. You are rest, You are peace. You are joy and gladness. You are justice and moderation… You are all our riches, And you suffice for us. Leader You are beauty. You are gentleness You are our protector, You are our guardian and defender. You are our courage. You are our heaven and our hope. All You are our faith, You are our great consolation. You are our eternal life, You are wonderful Lord, God Almighty, Merciful saviour. HYMN OF ADORATION (during which there is an incensation) All Sing Godhead here in hiding, whom I do adore, Masked by these bare shadows, shape and nothing more, see Lord, at thy service low lies here a heart lost, all lost in wonder at the God thou art. Seeing, touching, tasting are in thee deceived; how says trusty hearing? That shall be believed: what God’s Son has told me, take for truth I do; Truth himself speaks truly or there’s nothing true. Jesus, whom I look at shrouded here below, I beseech thee send me what I thirst for so, some day to (2) gaze on (2) thee, face to face in light and be blest forever with the glory’s sight. (Tune: Adoro Te (2) 11 11.11 11) THE PRAYER (and the benediction, if possible) Leader Lord Jesus Christ, you gave your Church an admirable Sacrament as the abiding memorial of your passion. Teach us so to worship the sacred mystery of your Body and Blood, that its redeeming power will sanctify us always. Who live and reign with the Father and the Holy Spirit, God, forever and ever. All Amen THE BENEDICTION (and Reposition) 7. RECESSIONAL HYMN All Sing Abide with me; fast falls the eventide: the darkness deepens; Lord, with me abide: when other helpers fail, and comforts flee, help of the helpless, O abide with me. Swift to its close ebbs out life’s little day; earth’s joys grow dim, its glories pass away; change and decay in all around I see: O thou who changest not, abide with me. I need thy presence every passing hour; what but thy grace can foil the tempter’s power? who like thyself my guide and stay can be? Through cloud and sunshine, Lord, abide With me. I fear no foe with thee at hand to bless; ills have no weight, and tears no bitterness. Where is death’s sting? Where, grave thy victory? I triumph still, if thou abide with me. Hold thou thy cross before my closing eyes; shine through the gloom, and point me to the skies: heaven’s morning breaks, and earth’s vain shadows flee; in life, in death, O Lord, abide with me. (Tune: Eventide 10 10.10 10)