MALACHI 3:13-4:2A, PS. 1, LUKE. 11:5-13.
Today’s Gospel presents is with the theme of “Prayer”. Prayer demands practice, perseverance, courage and confidence. The Gospel says; “Ask”, “seek” and “knock”. We might have knocked for years yet no answer. Don’t give up; prayer is always heard by God, but not always answered as we might wish.
Mary had moments she prayed; in Acts of the Apostles, she gathered with the Apostles in prayer at the Upper Room. In Luke’s gospel, she prayed the Magnificat.
On October 7, the Catholic Church celebrates the yearly memorial of Our Lady of the Rosary. Known for several centuries by the alternate title of “Our Lady of Victory,” this celebration takes place in honor of the 16th century naval victory which secured Europe against Turkish invasion.
Pope St. Pius V attributed the victory to the intercession of the Blessed Virgin Mary, who was invoked on the day of the battle through a campaign to pray the Rosary throughout Europe.
Today’s memorial- Our Lady of the Rosary, reminds us to be steadfast in prayer and to always trust in the Lord. It also reminds us to invoke Mary’s intercession in this special season of prayer.
PRAYER TO OUR LADY OF THE MOST HOLY ROSARY
O Queen of the Most Holy Rosary, in these times of such brazen impiety, manifest thy power with the signs of thine ancient victories.
From thy throne whence thou dispense pardon and grace, mercifully regard the Church of thy Son, His Vicar on Earth, and every order of clergy, religious, and laity, who are oppressed in this mighty conflict.
Thou who art powerful, the vanquisher of all heresies, hasten the hour of mercy, even though the hour of God’s justice is every day provoked by the countless sins of men, the sons and daughters of Adam.
Obtain for me, the least of men, kneeling before thee in supplication, the grace I need to live righteously upon earth, in order to be numbered among the just in heaven. Amen!
Fr. Daniel Evbotokhai
