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JANUARY 25
The Conversion of St. Paul
O Christ, the Son of God,
you graciously chose Saint Paul
to be your apostle,
and enabled him to sow the good seed
of your Word throughout the world.
From his preaching there has sprung up
an abundant harvest for you.
Grant that his teachings may sink deep into our hearts
and bring forth fruit to your glory;
with the Father and the Holy Spirit,
you live and reign,
one God, now and forever.
Amen.
JANUARY 28
ST. THOMAS AQUINAS
PRIEST AND DOCTOR OF THE CHURCH
Prayer for a Good Life
Grant O merciful God, that I may ardently desire,
carefully examine, truly know and perfectly fulfil those things
that are pleasing to You and to the praise and glory of Your holy name.
Direct my life, O my God, and grant that I might know
what you would have me to do and for me to fulfil
it as is necessary and profitable to my soul.
Grant to me, O Lord my God, that I may not be found wanting
in prosperity or in adversity and that I may not be
lifted up by one nor cast down by the other.
May I find joy in nothing but what leads to You
and sorrow in nothing but what leads away from You.
May I seek to please no one or fear
to displease anyone, save only You.
Grant to me, O Lord God,
– a vigilant heart that no subtle speculation may ever lead me from You;
– a noble heart that no unworthy affection may draw me from You;
– an upright heart that no evil purpose may turn me from you.
Give me a steadfast heart that no tribulation
may shatter and a free heart that no violent
affection may claim as its own.
And finally, grant me O Lord my God,
a mind to know you, diligence to seek you, wisdom to find you.
Give me a way of life pleasing to You;
perseverance to trust and await You
in confidence that I shall embrace You at the last.
Amen.
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