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Prepare the Way of the Lord

For many years it has been the custom at Our Lady of the Lake to pray a novena for the benefactors of our parish. We are blessed with so many visitors throughout the year who support us with their contributions and enrich us with their faith. At each of the masses leading up to Christmas, we will remember our benefactors and we will pray that the special grace of Advent open our hearts and minds to the fulness of God’s presence in the Word Made Flesh.

Daily Opening Prayer

    Almighty and Eternal Father, you have blessed your Church with another year of Grace. During this time of Advent, we prepare to celebrate the Light of Jesus Christ that darkness cannot hide. May our prayers and good works reflect the light of Christ. May they assist our brothers and sisters in need. May they express our gratitude for the generosity of so many who support the work of our church. Keep us faithful to our commitments and guide us in the truth. May gladness fill our hearts and peace fill our homes as we celebrate the birth of your Son, who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, forever and ever. Amen.

December 16

Scripture Reading from the letter to the Romans Are you unaware that we who were baptized into Christ Jesus were baptized into His Death? We were indeed buried with Him through baptism into death, so that, just as Christ was raised from the dead by the glory of the Father, we too might live in newness of life….now that you have been freed from sin…the benefit that you have leads to sanctification and its end is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord. (Romans 6)

Prayer: How good of you, dear Father, to wrap your son in the garb of humanity! Christened at the baptismal font, we call ourselves Christians. May we always honor your name. Amen.

December 17

Scripture Reading from the letter to the Romans We boast in hope of the glory of God. Not only that, but we even boast of our afflictions, knowing that affliction produces endurance, proven character, hope, and hope does not disappoint, because the love of God has been poured out into our heart through the Holy Spirit that has been given to us. (Romans 7)

Prayer: Heavenly Father, you sent your son as a herald of HOPE. His birth in Bethlehem was a sunburst of hope in a world of darkness. Praise to you, Father, for the wonder of Christ in us. Amen.

December 18

Scripture Reading from Isaiah A shoot shall sprout from the stump of Jesse, and from his roots a bud shall blossom. The spirit of the Lord shall rest upon him: a spirit of wisdom and understanding, a spirit of counsel and of strength, a spirit of knowledge and of fear of the Lord. (Isaiah 11)

Prayer: Come, Lord, Leader of ancient Israel! Enable us to keep faith in our human nature, your creation, our responsibility. As we think, reflect and seek advice, keep us always open to your wondrous intervention, our Immanuel. Amen

December 19

Scripture Reading from Matthew Should anyone press you into service for one mile, go with him for two miles. Give to the one who asks of you. Love your enemies, and pray for those who persecute you, that you may be children of your heavenly Father. (Matthew 5)

Prayer: Come, Lord Jesus, wondrous child where life seemed dead. Come, revive my life and my faith in your miraculous presence. Make me a sign of how we ought to live totally for you, how to go the extra mile. Amen

December 20

Scripture Reading from Luke Joseph too went up from Galilee from the town of Nazareth to Judea, to the city of David that is called Bethlehem, because he was of the house and family of David, to be enrolled with Mary, his betrothed, who was with child. While they were there, she gave birth to his firstborn son. She wrapped him in swaddling clothes and laid him in a manager. (Luke 2)

Prayer: Come, Lord Jesus, Key of David. Open the gates of fear so that we walk with faith and willingly accept the surprising turns of your holy will. Mary, Mother of Faith, intercede for us that we may follow your example. Amen

December 21

Scripture Reading from Luke The angel said to the shepherds, “Do not be afraid….a savior has been born for you. You will find an infant wrapped in swaddling clothes and lying in a manger.” (Luke 2)

Petitions

Prayer: Come, Jesus, our Immanuel! Be “God-with-us” in our joy: and sorrows. Save us from rejoicing too much and from weeping too much. Be with us in all moments of our life. Amen.

December 22

Scripture Reading from Luke My soul proclaims the greatness of the Lord; my Spirit rejoices in God my savior. For he has looked upon his handmaid’s lowliness: behold from now on all ages will call me blessed. (Luke 1)

Prayer: Come, King of all nations! For you, Lord Jesus, are a home for each of us in every moment of our existence. You are the source of unity and faith. Save us, for we are your own creation. Come, King of Kings, Amen.

December 23

Scripture Reading from Luke When the time arrived for Elizabeth to have her child, she Gave birth to a son. Her neighbors and relatives rejoiced with her… they were going to call him Zechariah after his father, but his mother said in reply, “No. He will be called John.” (Luke 1)

Prayer: Lord, I hear you say, “Lift up your heads and see; your redemption is near at hand.” Whenever this redemption expresses itself in fragile joy and delicate beauty, keep me fearful lest I forget what is lovely as this.” Amen.

December 24

Scripture Reading from Luke Zechariah prophesied, saying, “Blessed be the Lord, the God of Israel, for he has visited and brought redemption to his people. He has raised up a horn for our salvation within the house of David his servant, even as he promised through the mouth of his holy prophets from of old.” (Luke 1)

Prayer: O Christ, radiant Dawn, Splendor of Eternal Light, Sun of Justice, shine on us! Illumine the dark areas of our life and give warmth to our cold hearts. Break our routine of indifference with the splendor of your freedom. Amen.