Day 7: Novena Prayer to St. Peter Chanel

A Saint who Perseveres

He had been on the island for over four months. Daily he and Brother Marie Nizier had faithfully practised the routine of prayer prescribed by their rule; on most days he had celebrated Mass; in February with his companion he had carried out the liturgy of Candlemas Day and Ash Wednesday. Quite often the islanders had been present at these acts of worship, though without understanding them, since Peter had no means of explaining anything. His efforts at peacemaking had largely gone unheeded. Very little – except what we might nowadays term wishful thinking – occurs in his diary about direct efforts at evangelisation. Quite simply, he was completely handicapped by lack of communication, and it must have been extremely discouraging. Small wonder that he felt the need of consulting …his Marist fellow-priests. (Graystone, St Peter Chanel, Pg. 29)

Prayer for Vocations
Lord Jesus, you gave to the Church, the Society of Mary and the people of Oceania, St Peter Chanel, as an example of gentleness, compassion and love in action. Welcome many young men and women into the Marist Family, as priests, brothers and sisters. Help us to share our charism with lay people throughout the world and to work in partnership with them in mission for the good of your Church and the world. This prayer we make to the Father in Your name through the Holy Spirit. Amen.

(Picture: Tracy L. Christenson, https://tracylchristianson.com/index.html)