More Old Time Religion

A few posts ago I mentioned prayer practices which had , to some extent, gone out of practice. I have just completed a novena to Our Lady of the Miraculous Medal and found it helpful both spiritually and practically. A novena is, firstly, an act of discipline where you determine to follow a course of prayer for a period of time. This involves an act of will and a committment to fulfill the intention. The will is strengthened having made the committment to, in this case, the Mother of God.

If the novena is for remedy of a personal weakness it has the very practical effect of creating a period of time during which it is less likely that you will allow that particular behaviour to occur. For example, an irritable person might use the period of the novena as an opportunity to practice control of that weakness, whilst at the same time seeking the help of Mary to overcome it. It is good both psychologically and spiritually.

There are many forms of prayer which too often lie unused. They give a form and framework to prayer time and, through repetition and familiarity, can instill the truths they represent deep into our hearts.

Give it a try.