Prayers for 5/17

Today we ask the intercession of Sts. Madron and Pascal Baylon, as well as Bls. Antonia Messina and Giulia Salzano.

For the Congregation of the Catechetical Sisters of the Sacred Heart of Jesus...

For those suffering from constant pain...

For the Vietnamese Eucharistic Youth Society...

For cooks...

For Bishop Wuerl and the people of Pittsburgh...

For VSC's father, as well as his family and friends...

For a personal intention...

For all intentions posted on Catholic Fire...

For all intentions previously posted on this site...

Hymn for 5/17

With Joy I Heard My Friends Exclaim


With joy I heard my friends exclaim,
“Come, let us in God’s temple meet;
Within thy gates, O Zion blest,
Shall ever stand our willing feet.”

How beautiful doth Zion stand,
A city built compact and fair;
The people of the Lord unite
With joy and praise to worship there.

They come to learn the will of God,
To pay their vows, His grace to own;
For there is judgment’s royal seat,
Messiah’s sure and lasting throne.

For Zion’s peace let prayer be made;
May all that love thee prosper well;
Within thy walls let peace abide,
And gladness with thy children dwell.

For sake of friends and kindred dear,
My heart’s desire is Zion’s peace;
And for the house of God, the Lord,
My loving care shall never cease.

Prayers for 5/16

Today we ask the intercession of Sts. Andrew Bobola, Brendan the Navigator, Honorius of Amiens, John Nepomucene, Simon Stock, and Ubaldus Baldassini.

For the peoples of Poland and the Czech Republic...

For sailors and all who make their living on the water...

For bakers and confectioners...

For florists...

For protection of the seal of the confessional...

For those suffering from the effects of gossip, slander, and calumny...

For all who wear the Brown Scapular...

For sick children, their parents, and their caregivers...

For Nancy, her husband, and their children...

For the repose of the soul of Eric D. Clark, as well as his family and friends...

For the repose of the souls of Donald Rintelman, Brian Rintelman, and Thomas Beck, and for the recovery of Ann Rintelman as well as their family and friends...

For the people of New England affected by flooding...

For a personal intention...

For all intentions posted on Catholic Fire...

For all intentions previously posted on this site...

Hymn for 5/16

Ye Sons of Men, with Joy Record


Ye sons of men, with joy record
The various wonders of the Lord;
And let His power and goodness sound
Through all your tribes the earth around.

Let the high heavens your songs invite;
Those spacious fields of brilliant light,
Where sun and moon and planets roll,
And stars that glow from pole to pole.

See earth in verdant robes arrayed,
Its herbs and flowers, its fruit and shade;
View the broad sea’s majestic plains,
And think how wide its Maker reigns.

But O that brighter world above,
Where lives and reigns Incarnate Love!
God’s only Son in flesh arrayed,
For man a bleeding Victim made.

Thither, my soul, with rapture soar:
There in the land of praise adore:
This theme demands an angel’s lay,
Demands an undeclining day.

Prayers for 5/15

Today we ask th eintercession of Sts. Andrew Abellon, Dymphna, Gerebernus, Hallvard, Indaletius, Isidore the Farmer, and Pachomius; as well as Bl. Magdalen Albrizzi.

For those suffering from mental illnesses...

For epileptics...

For those who suffer from neurological disorders...

For all in health professions, especially those who care for the illnesses mentioned above...

For agricultural workers...

For the people of Brazil, especially those killed in recent violence...

For the people of New Hampshire and Massachusetts affected by flooding...

For Staff Sergeant Brian Ekendahl, as well as all troops traveling to and from home...

For the repose of the soul of Alysha S. Adlam, as well as her family and friends...

For Shane...

For a personal intention...

For all intentions posted on Catholic Fire...

For all intentions previously posted on this site...

Hymn for 5/15

Come, Thou Everlasting Spirit


Come, Thou everlasting Spirit
,Bring to every thankful mind
All the Savior’s dying merit,
All His sufferings for mankind!
True Recorder of His passion,
Now the living faith impart;
Now reveal His great salvation;
Preach His Gospel to our heart.

Come, Thou Witness of His dying;
Come, Remembrancer divine!
Let us feel Thy power, applying
Christ to every soul, and mine!
Let us groan Thine inward groaning;
Look on Him we pierced, and grieve;
All receive the grace atoning,
All the sprinkled blood receive.

Prayers for the Fifth Sunday of Easter

Today we ask the intercession of Sts. Matthias the Apostle, Boniface of Tarsus, Carthage, and Maria Mazzarello; along with Bl. Giles of Santarem.

For recovering alcoholics, their families and friends, and those who support them...

For alcoholics still in the thrall of their addiction, and for their families and friends...

For those who work in substance abuse treatment...

For the Salesian Sisters...

For Nancy, her husband, and her children...

For all parents, especially mothers...

For peace throughout the world...

For Ellen and her back problems...

For a personal intention...

For all intentions posted on Catholic Fire...

For all intentions previously posted on this site...

Hymn for the Fifth Sunday of Easter

O Will of God Beneath Our Life


O Will of God beneath our life,
The sea beneath the wave:
From Thee we rise in mystic strife,
In Thee we find our grave.

O Truth of God beneath our faith,
The rock on which we rest:
Thy Mind is near, Thy Spirit saith
Our home is in Thy breast.

O Love of God beneath our loves,
The fountain to the stream:
The river of Thy peace it moves,
Its tide our surest dream.

O Life of God beneath our death,
The sun behind our gloom:
Thy Christ proclaims in every breath,
The world of fadeless bloom.

Prayers for 5/12

Today we honor Mary under two of her titles: Our Lady of Fatima and Our Lady of the Blessed Sacrament.

We also ask the intercession of the Martyrs of Alexandria; Sts. Andrew Fournet, Erconwald of London, Felix of Burgundy, John the Silent, Peter Regulatus, and Servatus; as well as Bls. Fontis Gabrielli, Gerard of Villamagna, Imelda Lambertini, and Julian of Norwich.

For the pilgrims of Fatima, especially those who seek healing...

For all Marian movements within the Church...

For the Missionaries of the Blessed Sacrament...

For the Daughters of the Cross of St. Andrew...

For those suffering from foot problems...

For those dealing with infestations of vermin...

For Nancy and her family...

For those fleeing the Indonesian volcano, and for those affected by it...

For Abbigail and Isabelle Carlsen, their parents, their family, and friends...

For the repose of the soul of Zachary Jones, as well as his family and friends...

For Mateo and McHale Shaw, their parents, their family, and friends...

For Bernett Adelle...

Hymn in Honor of Our Lady of Fatima

Mary the Dawn

Mary the dawn, Christ the Perfect Day;
Mary the gate, Christ the Heavenly Way!

Mary the root, Christ the Mystic Vine;
Mary the grape, Christ the Sacred Wine!

Mary the wheat, Christ the Living Bread;
Mary the stem, Christ the Rose blood-red!

Mary the font, Christ the Cleansing Flood;
Mary the cup, Christ the Saving Blood!

Mary the temple, Christ the temple's Lord;
Mary the shrine, Christ the God adored!

Mary the beacon, Christ the Haven's Rest;
Mary the mirror, Christ the Vision Blest!

Mary the mother, Christ the mother's Son
By all things blest while endless ages run.
Amen

Prayers for 5/12

Today we ask the intercession of Sts.Acheilleus, Diomma, Epiphanius of Salamis, Ethelhard, Flavia Domitilla, Germanus of Constantinople, Nereus, Pancras, and Philip of Agirone; as well as Bls. Candida Maria de Jesus, Francis Patrizzi, and Jane of Portugal.

For arbritrators and negotiators...

For the Daughters of Jesus...

For Claire's job search...

For Mark and his travels...

For peace throughout the world, especially in the Middle East...

For Rodney Willoughby, Jr., as well as his family and friends...

For Mateo and McHale Shaw, their parents, as well as their family and friends...

For a personal intention...

For all intentions posted on Catholic Fire...

For all intentions previously posted on this site...

Hymn for 5/12

Come, My Way, My Truth, My Life


Come, my Way, my Truth, my Life:
Such a way as gives us breath;
Such a truth as ends all strife,
Such a life as killeth death.

Come, my Light, my Feast, my Strength:
Such a light as shows a feast,
Such a feast as mends in length,
Such a strength as makes his guest.

Come, my Joy, my Love, my Heart:
Such a joy as none can move,
Such a love as none can part,
Such a heart as joys in love.

Prayers for 5/11

Today we ask the intercession of Sts. Francis of Girolamo, Gengulphus, Ignatius of Laconi, and Mamertus; as well as Bls. Albert of Bergamo, Aloysius Luis Rabata, James Walworth, John Rochester, and Julian Cesarello de Valle.

For couples dealing with difficulties in their marriages...

For those affected by severe spring weather...

For VSC's father, as well as VSC's family and friends...

For peace throughout the world, especially in the Middle East...

For a personal intention...

For all intentions posted on Catholic Fire...

For all intentions previously posted on this site...

Hymn for 5/11

Immortal Love, Forever Full


Immortal love, forever full,
Forever flowing free,
Forever shared, forever whole,
A never ebbing sea!

Our outward lips confess the name
All other names above;
Love only knoweth whence it came,
And comprehendeth love.

Blow, winds of God, awake and blow
The mists of earth away:
Shine out, O Light divine, and show
How wide and far we stray.

We may not climb the heavenly steeps
To bring the Lord Christ down;
In vain we search the lowest deeps,
For Him no depths can drown.

But warm, sweet, tender, even yet,
A present help is He;
And faith still has its Olivet,
And love its Galilee.

The healing of His seamless dress
Is by our beds of pain;
We touch Him in life’s throng and press,
And we are whole again.

Through Him the first fond prayers are said
Our lips of childhood frame,
The last low whispers of our dead
Are burdened with His Name.

O Lord and Master of us all,
Whate’er our name or sign,
We own Thy sway, we hear Thy call,
We test our lives by Thine.

The letter fails, the systems fall,
And every symbol wanes;
The Spirit over brooding all,
Eternal Love remains.

Prayers for 5/10

Today we ask the intercession of the Patriarch Job; Sts. Antonius of Florence, Comgall, John of Avila, and Solange; and also Bl. Ivan Merz.

For those who have suffered great loss...

For those who suffer from ulcers...

For the people of Andalusia...

For rape victims...

For the repose of the souls of those killed by the tornadoes in Texas...

For the repose of the soul of Nathan Vacho, as well as his family and friends...

For all members of our armed forces...

For a personal intention...

For all intentions posted on Catholic Fire...

For all intentions previously posted on this site...

Hymn for 5/10

As Light, O Christ


As light, O Christ, Thou cam’st to earth;
In Thee I live, in Thee I shall arise;
Thou art my joy, Thou my new birth,
To blessèd life Thou openest mine eyes.
For me Thou to the cross didst go,
For me Thou gav’st Thy blood to flow.

For me, in dark Gethsemane
Alone Thou, Christ, with sin and death didst fight;
Alone with God didst plead for me,
That I in Thee might see the blessèd light.
From all my heart, while I may live,
Eternal thanks to Thee I’ll give.

Prayers for 5/9

Today we ask the intercession of St. Gorfor, as well as Bls. Nicholas Albergati and Theresa of Jesus Gerhardinger.

For college professors...

For the School Sisters of Notre Dame...

For peace throughout the world, especially in the Middle East...

For a personal intention...

For all intentions posted on Catholic Fire...

For all intentions previously posted on this site...

Hymn for 5/9

Loving Shepherd of Thy Sheep


Loving Shepherd of Thy sheep,
Keep Thy lamb, in safety keep;
Nothing can Thy power withstand,
None can pluck me from Thy hand.

Loving Savior, Thou didst give
Thine own life that we might live,
And the hands outstretched to bless
Bear the cruel nails’ impress.

I would praise Thee every day,
Gladly all Thy will obey,
Like Thy blessèd ones above
Happy in Thy precious love.

Loving Shepherd, ever near,
Teach Thy lamb Thy voice to hear,
Suffer not my steps to stray
From the straight and narrow way.

Where Thou leadest I would go,
Walking in Thy steps below,
Till before my Father’s throne
I shall know as I am known.

Prayers for 5/8

Today we ask the intercession of Popes Benedict II and Boniface IV; as well as Sts. Acacius, Ida of Nivelles, Odrian, and Victor Maurus.

For the Holy Father, and for his intentions...

For all members of the Armed Forces, especially those serving far from home...

For those suffering from erysipelas...

For those suffering from dental disorders...

For Christina...

For the repose of the soul of Doug Collier...

For Fr. Jeffrey Keyes, C.PP.S...

For the familiy of the girl killed in a shooting in Brooklyn...

For the people in Florida affected by the brush fires...

For the repose of the soul of Lillian Gertrud Asplund, her family and friends, as well as all those lost in disasters at sea...

For a personal intention...

For all intentions posted on Catholic Fire...

For all intentions previously posted on this site...

Hymn for 5/8

Great Shepherd of Thy Chosen Flock


Great Shepherd of Thy chosen flock,
Thy people’s Shield, their shadowing Rock,
Once more we meet to hear Thy voice,
Once more before Thee to rejoice.

Now may Thy Spirit, by the Word,
Refresh each wearied heart, O Lord,
Wearied of earth’s vain strife and woe,
And longing more Thyself to know.

Thine is the heart our griefs to feel,
And Thine the love each wound to heal;
Home Thou art gone for us to care,
Returning soon to take us there.

Prayers for the Fourth Sunday of Easter

Today we ask the intercession of Sts. Agnellus of Pisa, Agostino Roscelli, and Duje; as well as Bls. Notkar Balbulus and Rose Venerini.

For the Institute of Sisters of the Immaculata...

For the Venerini Sisters...

For musicians...

For those suffering from speech impediments, especially children...

For Nancy and her family...

For thanksgiving for the safe return of Danielle Hernandez...

For peace throughout the world, especially in the Middle East...

For a personal intention...

For all intentions posted on Catholic Fire...

For all intentions previously posted on this site...

Hymn for the Fourth Sunday of Easter

The True Shepherd


I was wandering and weary
When my Savior came unto me;
For the ways of sin grew dreary,
And the world has ceased to woo me;
And I thought I heard Him say,
As He came along His way,

Refrain

O wand’ring souls, come near Me,
My sheep would never fear Me,
My sheep would never fear Me:
I am the Shepherd true.

At first I would not hearken,
And put off till the morrow;
But life began to darken,
And I was sick with sorrow;
Still I thought I heard Him say,
As He came along His way,

Refrain

At last I stopped to listen,
His voice could not deceive me;
I saw His kind eyes glisten,
So anxious to relieve me,
I was sure I heard Him say,
As He came along His way,

Refrain

He took me on His shoulder,
And tenderly He kissed me;
He bade my love be bolder,
And said how He had missed me;
Then I heard Him sweetly say,
As He went along His way,

Refrain

I thought His love would weaken,
As more and more He knew me;
But it burneth like a beacon,
And its light and heat go thro’ me.
And I ever hear Him say,
As He goes along His way,

Refrain

Let us do, then, dearest brothers,
What will best and longest please us.
Follow not the ways of others,
But trust ourselves to Jesus.
We shall ever hear Him say,
As He goes along His way,

Refrain

Prayers for 5/6

Today we ask the intercession of Sts. Evodius of Antioch and Gerard of Lunel; as well as Bl. Anna Rosa Gattorno.

For the Movement of Hope, the Daughters of St. Anne, and the Sons of St. Anne...

For those who suffer from epilepsy...

For Nancy...

For the repose of the soul of Martin Lee Anderson, as well as his family and friends...

For the safe return of Danielle Hernandez, as well as her family and friends...

For peace throughout the world, especially in the Middle East...

For a personal intention...

For all intentions posted on Catholic Fire...

For all intentions previously posted on this site...

Hymn for 5/6

What Shall I Render to the Lord


What shall I render to the Lord
For all His benefits to me?
How shall my soul, by grace restored,
Give worthy thanks, O Lord, to Thee?

Salvation’s cup of blessing now
I take, and call upon God’s Name;
Before His saints I pay my vow
And here my gratitude proclaim.

His saints the Lord delights to save,
Their death is precious in His sight;
He has redeemed me from the grave,
And in His service I delight.

With thankful heart I offer now
My gift, and call upon God’s Name;
Before His saints I pay my vow
And here my gratitude proclaim.

Within His house, the house of prayer,
I dedicate myself to God;
Let all His saints His grace declare
And join to sound His praise abroad.

Prayers for 5/5

Today we ask the intercession of St. Angelus of Jerusalem; as well as Bls. Caterina Cittadini, Edmund Rice, John Haile , and Nuntius Sulprizio.

For the Ursuline Sisters of Somasca...

For the Christian Brothers of Ireland...

For the repose of the soul of Joyce Malawey, as well as her family and friends...

For the infant son of Emily's friend, as well as the child's family...

For Christina, as well as her family and friends...

For the people of Darfur, especially the victims of genocide...

For the repose of the souls of Dacharette McCants, Davieon Randle, and Dominique Randle, as well as their family and friends...

For the repose of the souls of Joseph Ballantyne and Brandon Bunnell, as well as their families and friends...

For peace throughout the world, especially the Middle East...

For a personal intention...

For all intentions posted on Catholic Fire...

For all intentions previously posted on this site...

Hymn for 5/5

Zion, To Thy Table Singing


Zion, to Thy Savior singing,
To thy Prince and Shepherd bringing,
Sweetest hymns of love and praise,
Thou wilt never reach the measure
Of His worth, by all the treasure
Of thy most ecstatic lays.

Of all wonders that can thrill thee,
And, with adoration fill thee,
What than this can greater be,
That Himself to thee He giveth?
He that eateth ever liveth,
For the Bread of Life is He.

Fill thy lips to overflowing
With sweet praise, His mercy showing
Who this heav’nly table spread:
On this day so glad and holy,
To each longing spirit lowly
Giveth He the living Bread.

Here the King hath spread His table,
Whereon eyes of faith are able
Christ our Passover to trace:
Shadows of the law are going,
Light and life and truth inflowing,
Night to day is giving place.

O Good Shepherd, Bread life giving,
Us, Thy grace and life receiving,
Feed and shelter evermore;
Thou on earth our weakness guiding,
We in Heav’n with Thee abiding,
With all saints will Thee adore.

Prayers for 5/4

Today we ask the intercession of several of the English Martyrs: the Carthusians Augustine Webster, John Houghton, and Robert Lawrence; the Brigittine Richard Reynolds; and Antony Page and George Beesley.

We also ask the intercession of Sts. Florian and Venerius of Milan, as well as Bl. Gregory Celli of Verucchio.

For the peoples of England and Austria...

For the Carthusian Order...

For members of the Armed Forces, especially those serving far from home...

For those who work in the brewing industry...

For all prayers previously posted on this site...

Hymn for 5/4

Panis Angelicus

(translation in italics)


Panis angelicus
fit panis hominum;
dat panis caelicus
figuris terminum;
O res mirabilis:
manducat Dominum
pauper, servus et humilis.

Thus Angels' Bread is made
the Bread of man today:
the Living Bread from heaven
with figures dost away:
O wondrous gift indeed!
the poor and lowly may
upon their Lord and Master feed.

Te, trina Deitas
unaque, poscimus:
sic nos tu visita,
sicut te colimus;
per tuas semitas
duc nos quo tendimus,
ad lucem quam inhabitas.

Thee, therefore, we implore,
o Godhead, One in Three,
so may Thou visit us
as we now worship Thee;
and lead us on Thy way,
That we at last may see
the light where
in Thou dwellest aye.

Prayers for the Feast of Sts. Phillip and James

Besides the Apostles Phillip and James the Lesser, we also ask the intercession of Pope Alexander I; Sts. Maura and Timothy,; and also Bl. Edoardo Giuseppe Rosaz.

For the Holy Father, and for his intentions...

For the peoples of Uruguay and Luxembourg...

For bakers...

For clothes manufacturers, especially those who work in difficult conditions...

For those who work in clothing stores...

For pharmacists...

For the dying...

For the victims of the Armenian airline crash, as well as their family and friends...

For peace throughout the world, especially in the Middle East...

For a personal intention...

For all intentions posted on Catholic Fire...

For all intentions previously posted on this site...

Hymn for the Feast of Sts. Phillip & James

The Winter's Sleep Was Long and Deep

(altered slightly to fit the current calendar)


The winter’s sleep was long and deep,
But earth is awakened and gay;
For the life ne’er dies that from God doth rise,
And the green comes after the grey.

So God doth bring the world to spring;
And on this holy day
Doth the Church proclaim her Apostles’ fame,
To welcome the third of May.

Two saints of God went by the road
That leadeth on to light;
And they gave up all at their Master’s call,
To work in their Master’s sight.

Would Philip’s mind the Father find?
Lo, he hath found the Way;
For to know the Son is to know the One
Whom the earth and the heavens obey.

And James, ’twas thine by grace divine
To preach the Christian life,
Where our faith is shown by our works alone,
And love overcometh strife.

Lord, grant that we may brethren be—
As Christians live in deed;
For it is but so we can learn to know
The truth that to Thee doth lead.

Prayers for 5/2

Today we ask the intercession of Sts. Athanasius, José María Rubio y Peralta, Joseph Luu, and Wiborada.

For Coptic Christians...

For members of the Armed Forces, especailly those serving far from home...

For Andrea Clark...

For the Faniel family...

For regions afflicted by inclement weather, especially Texas...

For peace throughout the world...

For the intentions posted on Catholic Fire...

For all intentions previously posted on this site...

Hymn for 5/2

O Esca Viatorum

English version follows


O esca viatórum,
O panis angelórum, O manna coélitum,
Esuriéntes ciba, Dulcédine non priva
Corda quæréntium, Corda quæréntium.

O lympha, fons amóris,
Qui puro Salvatóris, E corde prófluis
Te sitiéntes pota, Hæc sola nostra vota,
His una súfficis, His una súfficis.

O Jesu, Tuum vultum,
Quem cólimus occúltum, Sub panis spécie,
Fac, ut remóto velo, Post líbera in cælo
Cernámus fácie, Cernámus fácie.

O Bread of Life from Heaven


O Bread of life from Heaven,
O Food to pilgrims given,
O Manna from above:
Feed with the blessèd sweetness
Of Your divine completeness
The souls that want and need Your love.

O Fount of grace redeeming,
O River ever streaming,
From Jesus’ wounded side:
Come now, Your love bestowing
On thirsting souls, and flowing
Till all are fully satisfied.

We love You, Jesus, tender,
In all Your hidden splendor
Within these means of grace.
Oh, let the veil be riven,
And our clear eye in Heaven
Behold Your glory face to face.

Prayers for 5/1

Besides St. Joseph the Worker, we also ask the intercession of the prophet Jeremiah ; Sts. Augustine Schoffler, Brieuc, John-Louis Bonnard, Marculf, Peregrine Laziosi, and Richard Pampuri; as well as Bl. Panacea.

For all working people...

For those suffering from skin diseases...

For cancer patients...

For AIDS patients and those who carry the HIV virus...

For their caregivers...

For peace throughout the world...

For personal intentions...

For the intentions posted on Catholic Fire...

For all intentions previously posted on this site...

Hymn for St. Joseph the Worker

Sons of Labor, Dear to Jesus


Sons of labor, dear to Jesus,
To your homes and work again;
Go with brave hearts back to duty,
Face the peril, bear the pain.
Be your dwellings ne’er so lowly,
Yet remember, by your bed,
That the Son of God most holy
Had not where to lay His head.

Sons of labor, think of Jesus
As you rest your homes within,
Think of that sweet Babe of Mary
In the stable of the inn.
Think how in the sacred story
Jesus took a humble grade,
And the Lord of Life and Glory
Worked with Joseph at His trade.

Sons of labor, pray to Jesus;
Oh, how Jesus prayed for you!
In the moonlight, on the mountain,
Where the shimmering olives grew.
When you rise up at the dawning,
Ere in toil you wend your way,
Pray, as He prayed, in the morning,
Long before the break of day.

Sons of labor, be like Jesus,
Undefilèd, chaste, and pure;
And, though Satan tempt you sorely,
By His grace you shall endure.
Husband, father, son and brother,
Be ye gentle, just and true—
Be ye kind to one another,
As the Lord is kind to you.

Sons of labor, seek for Jesus,
Where He tells you ye shall find,
In the children, ’mid the mourners,
In the sick, poor, lame and blind—
“Search the Scriptures,” He entreats you,
“For of Me they testify”;
Love His altar, where He meets you,
Saying, “Fear not—It is I.”

Sons of labor, go to Jesus,
In your sorrow, shame and loss;
He is nearest, you are dearest,
When you bravely bear His cross.
Go to Him, Who died to save you,
And is still the sinner’s Friend;
And the great love, which forgave you,
Will forgive you to the end.

Sons of labor, live for Jesus,
Be your work your worship, too;
In His Name, and to His glory,
Do whate’er you find to do;
Till this night of sin and sorrow
Be for ever overpast;
And we see the golden morrow,
Home with Jesus, home at last!

Prayers for the Third Sunday of Easter

.Today we ask the intercession of Sts. Adjutor, Joseph Benedict Cottolengo, and Pope Pius V; as well as Bls. Marie Guyart of the Incarnation and William Southerne.

For the Holy Father, and for his personal intentions...

For lifeguards...

For the Sisters of St. Joseph Benedict Cottolengo, and all the religious communities founded by that saint...

For those who attend the Indult Mass, and for the priests serving them...

For the repose of the soul of Joyce Malawey, and for her family and friends...

For Andrea Clark...

For those affected by inclement weather, especially in Texas...

For refugees, especially in Darfur, Sudan...

For the intentions posted on Catholic Fire...

For all intentions previously posted on this site...

Hymn for the Third Sunday of Easter

Jesus, My Advocate Above


Jesus, my Advocate above,
My Friend before the throne of love,
If now for me prevails Thy prayer,
If now I find Thee pleading there,
If Thou the secret wish convey,
And sweetly prompt my heart to pray;
Hear, and my weak petitions join,
Almighty Advocate, to Thine.

Fain would I know my utmost ill,
And groan my nature’s weight to feel,
To feel the clouds that round me roll,
The night that hangs upon my soul,
The darkness of my carnal mind,
My will perverse, my passions blind,
Scattered o’er all the earth abroad,
Immeasurably far from God.

Jesus, my heart’s desire obtain!
My earnest suit present, and gain;
My fulness of corruption show,
The knowledge of myself bestow;
A deeper displacence at sin,
A sharper sense of hell within,
A stronger struggling to get free,
A keener appetite for Thee.

O sovereign Love, to Thee I cry,
Give me Thyself, or else I die!
Save me from death, from hell set free,
Death, hell, are but the want of Thee.
Quickened by Thy imparted flame,
Saved, when possessed of Thee, I am;
My life, my only heaven Thou art,
O might I feel Thee in my heart!

Prayers for 4/29

Today we ask the intercession of Sts. Catherine of Siena, Hugh of Cluny, Peter Verona, and Torpes of Pisa.

For firefighters...

For the people of Italy...

For nurses and nursing assistants...

For Andrea Clark...

For peace throughout the world...

For personal intentions...

For the intentions posted on Catholic Fire...

For all intentions previously posted on this site...

Hymn for 4/29

I Could Not Do Without Thee


I could not do without Thee
O Savior of the lost,
Whose precious blood redeemed me
At such tremendous cost.
Thy righteousness, thy pardon
Thy precious blood, must be
My only hope and comfort,
My glory and my plea.

I could not do without Thee,
I cannot stand alone,
I have no strength or goodness,
No wisdom of my own;
But Thou, beloved Savior,
Art all in all to me,
And weakness will be power
If leaning hard on Thee.

I could not do without Thee,
For, oh, the way is long,
And I am often weary,
And sigh replaces song:
How could I do without Thee?
I do not know the way;
Thou knowest, and Thou leadest,
And wilt not let me stray.

I could not do without Thee,
O Jesus, Savior dear;
E’en when my eyes are holden,
I know that Thou art near.
How dreary and how lonely
This changeful life would be,
Without the sweet communion,
The secret rest with Thee!

I could not do without Thee;
No other friend can read
The spirit’s strange deep longings,
Interpreting its need;
No human heart could enter
Each dim recess of mine,
And soothe, and hush, and calm it,
O blessèd Lord, but Thine.

I could not do without Thee,
For years are fleeting fast,
And soon in solemn oneness
The river must be passed;
But Thou wilt never leave me,
And though the waves roll high,
I know Thou wilt be near me,
And whisper, “It is I.”

Prayers for 4/28

Today we ask the intercession of Sts. Adalbero, Cronan of Roscrea, Gianna Beretta Molla, John Baptist Thanh, Louis Marie de Monfort, Luchesius, Peter Chanel, and Prudentius.

For women with complcated pregnancies, and for their unborn children...

For parents whose children have died...

For the peoples of the Pacific Islands...

For the Montfortian Religious Family...

For Andrea Clarke...

For the repose of the souls of Elizabeth Smith, Bradley Larson, Whitney Cerak, Laurel Erb, and Monica Felver; and for their families and friends...

For those injured in the same accident...

For the intentions posted on Catholic Fire...

For all intentions previously posted on this site...

Hymn for 4/28

O That I Could For Ever Dwell


O that I could for ever dwell,
Delighted, at the Savior’s feet,
Behold the form I love so well,
And all His tender words repeat.

The world shut out from all my soul,
And Heav’n brought in with all its bliss—
O is there aught from pole to pole,
One moment to compare to this!

This is the hidden life I prize—
A life of penitential love;
When most my follies I despise,
And raise my highest thoughts above.

Thus would I live till nature fail,
And all my former sins forsake;
Then rise to God within the veil,
And of eternal joys partake.

Prayers for 4/27

Today we ask the intercession of Sts. Asicus and Zita; as well as Bls. Hosanna of Cattaro, James of Bitetto, Mariana of Jesus, and Peter Armengol.

For domestic servants...

For restaurant workers...

For housewives...

For rape victims...

For Christina, as well as her family and friends...

For the repose of the soul of Harold Bennett, as well as his family and friends...

For peace throughout the world, especially in the Middle East...

For a personal intention...

For all intentions posted on Catholic Fire...

For all intentions previously posted on this site...

Hymn for 4/27

We Give Immortal Praise


We give immortal praise
To God the Father’s love,
For all our comforts here,
And better hopes above;
He sent His own eternal Son,
To die for sins that man had done.

To God the Son belongs
Immortal glory too,
Who bought us with His blood
From everlasting woe:
And now He lives, and now He reigns,
And sees the fruit of all His pains.

To God the Spirit’s Name
Immortal worship give,
Whose new-creating power
Makes the dead sinner live;
His work completes the great design,
And fills the soul with joy divine.

Almighty God, to Thee
Be endless honors done,
The undivided Three,
And the mysterious One:
Where reason fails, with all her powers,
There faith prevails, and love adores.

Prayers for 4/26

Today we ask the intercession of Our Lady of Good Counsel; along with Popes Cletus and Marcellinus; Sts. Franca Visalta, Paschasius, and Richarius; as well as Bl. John of Valence.

For the Holy Father, and for his intentions...

For the people of Albania...

For Julie's friend, as well as her family and friends...

For the people of Chernobyl...

For peace throughout the world, especially in the Middle East...

For Christina, as well as her families and friends...

For a personal intention...

For all intentions posted on Catholic Fire...

For all intentions previously posted on this site...

A Correction

Yesterday I listed Our Lady of Good Counsel as one of the feasts celebrated on April 25. It should be April 26, as only the city of Genazzano, Italy, keeps it on the day preceding.

Hymn for 4/26

God Loved the World So That He Gave

God loved the world so that He gave
His only Son the lost to save
That all who would in Him believe
Should everlasting life receive.

Christ Jesus is the Ground of faith,
Who was made flesh and suffered death;
All that confide in Him alone
Are built on this chief Cornerstone.

God would not have the sinner die,
His Son with saving grace is nigh,
His Spirit in the Word doth teach
How man the blessèd goal may reach.

Be of good cheer, for God’s own Son
Forgives all sins which thou hast done,
And, justified by Jesus’ blood,
Thy baptism grants the highest good.

If thou be sick, if death draw near
This truth thy troubled heart can cheer:
Christ Jesus saves my soul from death;
That is the firmest ground of faith.

Glory to God the Father, Son,
And Holy Spirit, Three in One!
To Thee, O blessèd Trinity,
Be praise now and eternally!

Prayers for the Feast of St. Mark

Besides today's principal patron, we also ask the intercession of Our Lady of Good Counsel; along with Bls. Robert Anderton and William Marsden.

For the peoples of Albania and Egypt...

For Coptic Christians...

For lawyers and all who work in the legal profession...

For prison inmates, those being held in jail, prisoners of war, and all captives...

For glaziers...

For zoo workers and veterinarians, especially those who work with Big Cats...

For those who suffer from scrofula, and for their caregivers...

For Mary Catteli's friend...

For Julie, as well as her family and friends...

For Andrea Clarke, as well as her family and friends...

For the victims of the bombings in Egypt, as well as their family and friends...

For the repose of the soul of Pamela Hawkins, as well as her family and friends...

For peace throughout the world...

For a personal intention...

For all intentions posted on Catholic Fire...

For all intentions previously posted on this site...

Hymn for the Feast of St. Mark

Tell the Blessed Tidings


Tell the blessèd tidings, children of the King,
With your glad hosannas make the morning ring:
Songs of His salvation, nevermore should cease;
Crown Him with your praises, hail Him Prince of Peace!
Round His throne of triumph happy hosts attend,
His the power and glory, kingdom without end.

Tell the blessèd tidings, ye whose ears have heard;
Tell it to the captives waiting for His Word:
Tell the hungry nations, longing to be fed,
Of the living water and the heav’nly bread.
Mighty to deliver, tender Guide and Friend,
His the power and glory, kingdom without end.

Bear the blessèd tidings, over land and sea;
Lo, the morning breaketh, and the shadows flee!
Whosoever heareth, speed the news along,
Join with men and angels, in salvation’s song.
Christ the world’s Redeemer, Savior, Guide and Friend!
Thine the power and glory, kingdom without end!

Prayers for 4/24

Today we ask the intercession of Sts. Benedetto Menni, Egbert, Fidelis of Sigmaringen, Ivo, Mary Euphrasia Pelletier, and William Firmatus.

For the Sisters Hospitallers of the Sacred Heart of Jesus...

For the Good Shepherd Sisters...

For those suffering from severe headaches...

For the victims of a plane crash in Alaska, as well as their family and friends...

For Jeremy Hand, as well as his family and friends...

For peace throughout the world, especially in the Middle East...

For a personal intention...

For all intentions posted on Catholic Fire...

For all intentions previously posted on this site...

Hymn for 4/24

Why Did the Nations Join to Slay


Why did the nations join to slay
The Lord’s anointed Son?
Why did they cast His laws away,
And tread His Gospel down?

The Lord, that sits above the skies,
Derides their rage below;
He speaks with vengeance in His eyes,
And strikes their spirits through.

“I call him my eternal Son,
And raise Him from the dead;
I make My holy hill His throne,
And wide His kingdom spread.

“Ask Me, My Son, and then enjoy
The utmost heathen lands:
Thy rod of iron shall destroy
The rebel that withstands.”

Be wise, ye rulers of the earth,
Obey th’ anointed Lord,
Adore the King of heav’nly birth,
And tremble at His Word.

With humble love address His throne;
For if He frown, ye die:
Those are secure, and those alone,
Who on His grace rely.

Prayers for the Second Sunday of Easter (Mercy Sunday)

Today we ask the intercession of Sts. Adalbert of Prague and George; as well as Bls. Helen del Cavalanti and Teresa Maria of the Cross.

For the peoples of Bohemia, Poland, and Prussia...

For the peoples of Aragon, Canada, Catalonia, England, the Republic of Georgia, Germany, Greece, Lithuania, Malta, Palestine, and Portugal; and all other places under St. George's patronage...

For farmers and agricultural workers...

For soldiers, especially those serving far from home...

For the Boy Scouts...

For those suffering from sexually transmitted diseases, and for their caregivers...

For Jeremy Hand, as well as his family and friends...

For peace throughout the world, especially in the Middle East...

For a personal intention...

For all intentions posted on Catholic Fire...

For all intentions previously posted on this site...

Hymn for the Second Sunday of Easter (Mercy Sunday)

O Sons and Daughters, Let Us Sing!


O sons and daughters, let us sing!
The King of heaven, the glorious King,
Over death today rose triumphing.
Alleluia! Alleluia!

That Easter morn, at break of day,
The faithful women went their way
To seek the tomb where Jesus lay.
Alleluia! Alleluia!

An angel clad in white they see,
Who sat, and spake unto the three,
“Your Lord doth go to Galilee.”
Alleluia! Alleluia!

That night th’apostles met in fear;
Amidst them came their Lord most dear,
And said, “My peace be on all here.”
Alleluia! Alleluia!

When Thomas first the tidings heard,
How they had seen the risen Lord,
He doubted the disciples’ word.
Alleluia! Alleluia!

“My piercèd side, O Thomas, see;
My hands, My feet, I show to thee;
Not faithless but believing be.”
Alleluia! Alleluia!

No longer Thomas then denied;
He saw the feet, the hands, the side;
“Thou art my Lord and God,” he cried.
Alleluia! Alleluia!

How blessed are they who have not seen,
And yet whose faith has constant been;
For they eternal life shall win.
Alleluia! Alleluia!

On this most holy day of days
Our hearts and voices, Lord, we raise
To Thee, in jubilee and praise.
Alleluia! Alleluia!

Prayers for Easter Saturday

Today we ask the intercession of several Martyrs of Persia; along with Sts. Apelles, Epipodius, Opportuna, and Theodore of Sykeon; as well as Bl. Maria Gabriella.

For the Chaldean Christians, especially in Iraq...

For single men...

For the chronically and terminally ill...

For regions afflicted by drought...

For the people of Nepal...

For peace in the world...

For personal intentions...

For the intentions posted on Catholic Fire...

For all intentions previously posted in this site...

Hymn for Easter Saturday

Happy Magdalene, to Whom


Happy Magdalene, to whom
Christ the Lord vouchsafed t’appear!
Newly risen from the tomb,
Would He first be seen by her?
Her by seven devils possessed,
Till His Word the fiends expelled;
Quenched the hell within her breast,
All her sins and sickness healed.

Yes, to her the Master came,
First His welcome voice she hears:
Jesus calls her by her name,
He the weeping sinner cheers,
Lets her the dear task repeat,
While her eyes again run o’er;
Lets her wash His bleeding feet,
Kiss them, and with joy adore.

Highly favored soul! To her
Farther still His grace extends,
Raises the glad messenger,
Sends her to His drooping friends;
Tidings of their living Lord
First in her report they find:
She must spread the Gospel word,
Teach the teachers of mankind.

Who can now presume to fear?
Who despair his Lord to see?
Jesus, wilt Thou not appear,
Show Thyself alive to me?
Yea, my God, I dare not doubt,
Thou shalt all my sins remove;
Thou hast cast a legion out,
Thou wilt perfect me in love.

Surely Thou hast called me now!
Now I hear the voice divine,
At Thy wounded feet I bow,
Wounded for whose sins but mine!
I have nailed Him to the tree,
I have sent Him to the grave:
But the Lord is ris’n for me,
Hold of Him by faith I have.

Here for ever I would lie,
Didst Thou not Thy servant raise,
Send me forth to testify
All the wonders of Thy grace.
Lo! I at Thy bidding go,
Gladly to Thy followers tell
They their rising God may know,
They the life of Christ may feel.

Hear, ye brethren of the Lord,
(Such as He vouchsafes to call)
O believe the Gospel word,
Christ hath died, and rose for all:
Turn ye from your sins to God,
Haste to Galilee, and see
Him, Who bought Thee with His blood,
Him, Who rose to live in Thee.

Prayers for Easter Friday

Today we ask the intercession of Sts. Anselm of Canterbury, Conrad of Parzham, and Ethelwald of Lindisfarne; as well as Bl. John Saziari.

For the Capuchins, especially the members of the Mid-America Province...

For Jeremy Hand, as well as his family and friends...

For the people of Eastern Russia affected by the earthquake...

For peace throughout the world, especially the Middle East...

For a personal intention...

For all intentions posted on Catholic Fire...

For all intentions previously posted on this site...

Hymn for Easter Friday

Father, God, We Glorify

Father, God, we glorify
Thy love to Adam’s seed;
Love that gave Thy Son to die,
And raised Him from the dead:
Him, for our offenses slain,
That we all might pardon find,
Thou hast brought to life again,
The Savior of mankind.

By Thy own right hand of power
Thou hast exalted Him,
Sent the mighty Conqueror
Thy people to redeem:
King of Saints, and Prince of Peace,
Him Thou hast for sinners giv’n,
Sinners from their sins to bless,
And lift them up to Heav’n.

Father, God, to us impart
The gift unspeakable;
Now in every waiting heart
Thy glorious Son reveal:
Quickened with our living Lord,
Let us in Thy Spirit rise,
Rise to all Thy life restored,
And bless Thee in the skies.

Prayers for Easter Thursday

Today we ask the intercession of Sts. Agnes of Montepulciano and Caedwalla; as well as Bls. John Finch, John Payne, and Simon Rinalducci.

For converts, especially those received into the Church this past Easter...

For Jeremy Hand, as well as his family and friends...

For those affected by the bus accident in India...

For Rebecca Huston and her family and friends...

For peace throughout the world, especially the Middle East...

For all intentions posted on Catholic Fire...

For all intentions previously posted on this site...

Hymn for Easter Thursday

That Eastertide with Joy Was Bright


That Eastertide with joy was bright,
The sun shone out with fairer light,
When, to their longing eyes restored,
The glad apostles saw their Lord.

He bade them see His hands, His side,
Where yet the glorious wounds abide;
The tokens true which made it plain
Their Lord indeed was risen again.

Jesus, the King of gentleness,
Do Thou Thyself our hearts possess
That we may give Thee all our days
The tribute of our grateful praise.

O Lord of all, with us abide
In this our joyful Eastertide;
From every weapon death can wield
Thine own redeemed forever shield.

All praise be Thine, O risen Lord,
From death to endless life restored;
All praise to God the Father be
And Holy Ghost eternally.

Prayers for Easter Wedensday

Today we ask the intercession of Sts. Expeditus and Pope Leo IX; as well as Bl. James Duckett.

We also celebrate the first anniversary of the accession of our Holy Father.

For the Holy Father, and for his personal intentions...

For deliverymen and couriers...

For those who work under tight deadlines...

For publishers and booksellers...

For peace throughout the world...

For a personal intention...

For all intentions posted on Catholic Fire...

For all intentions previously posted on this site...

Hymn for Easter Wedensday

At the Lamb's High Feast We Sing


At the Lamb’s high feast we sing,
Praise to our victorious King,
Who hath washed us in the tide
Flowing from his piercèd side;
Praise we Him, Whose love divine
Gives His sacred blood for wine,
Gives His body for the feast,
Christ the Victim, Christ the Priest.

Where the Paschal blood is poured,
Death’s dark angel sheathes his sword;
Israel’s hosts triumphant go
Through the wave that drowns the foe.
Praise we Christ, Whose blood was shed,
Paschal Victim, paschal Bread;
With sincerity and love
Eat we Manna from above.

Mighty Victim from the sky,
Hell’s fierce powers beneath Thee lie;
Thou hast conquered in the fight,
Thou hast brought us life and light;
Now no more can death appall,
Now no more the grave enthrall;
Thou hast opened Paradise,
And in Thee Thy saints shall rise.

Paschal triumph, Easter joy,
Only sin can this destroy;
From sin’s death do Thou set free
Souls reborn, O Lord, in Thee.
Hymns of glory and of praise,
Father, to Thee we raise;
Risen Lord, all praise to Thee,
Ever with the Spirit be.

Prayers for Easter Tuesday

Today we ask the intercession of Sts. Agapitus, Idesbald, Laserian , and Pedro de San Jose Betancur; as well as Bls. James Oldo, Maria Anna Blondin and Marie of the Incarnation.

For the people of Guatemala...

For the Sisters of Saint Anne...

For the Bethlehemite Congregation...

For babies suffering from Colic, and for their parents...

For the repose of the soul of George J. Watkins, III, as well as his family and friends...

For Haleigh Poutre...

For Melanie's grandmother, as well as her family and friends...

For peace throughout the world...

For a personal intention...

For all intentions posted on Catholic Fire...

For all intentions previously posted on this site...

Hymn for Easter Tuesday

Mary to Her Savior's Tomb


Mary to her Savior’s tomb
Hasted at the early dawn;
Spice she brought, and sweet perfume,
But the Lord, the Loved, was gone.

For awhile she weeping stood,
Struck with sorrow and surprise;
Shedding tears, a plenteous flood,
For her heart supplied her eyes.

Jesus, Who is always near,
Though too often unperceived
Came, His drooping child to cheer,
And inquired, Why she grieved?

Though at first she knew Him not,
When He called her by her name,
Then her griefs were all forgot,
For she found He was the same.

Grief and sighing quickly fled
When she heard His welcome voice;
Just before she thought Him dead,
Now He bids her heart rejoice:

What a change His Word can make,
Turning darkness into day!
You who weep for Jesus’ sake;
He will wipe your tears away.

He Who came to comfort her,
When she thought her all was lost;
Will for your relief appear,
Though you now are tempest-tossed:

On His Word your burden cast,
On His love your thoughts employ;
Weeping for awhile may last,
But the morning brings the joy.

Prayers for Easter Monday

Today we ask the intercession of St. Robert of Chaise Dieu and Bl. James of Cerqueto.

For all travelling back to their homes on this day...

For all intentions posted on Rerum Novarum...

For peace throughout the world...

For a personal intention...

For all intentions posted on Catholic Fire...

For all intentions previously posted on this site...

Hymn for Easter Monday

This Joyful Eastertide


This joyful Easter-tide,
Away with care and sorrow!
My Love, the Crucified,
Hath sprung to life this morrow.

Refrain

Had Christ, that once was slain,
Ne’er burst His three day prison,
Our faith had been in vain;
But now hath Christ arisen,
Arisen, arisen, arisen!

My flesh in hope shall rest,
And for a season slumber;
Till trump from east to west,
Shall wake the dead in number.

Refrain

Death’s flood hath lost his chill,
Since Jesus crossed the river:
Lover of souls, from ill
My passing soul deliver.

Refrain

Prayers for Easter Sunday

On this most festive day, we ask the intercession of the Martyrs of Saragossa; Sts. Benedict Joseph Labre, Bernadette of Lourdes, Drogo, and Fructuosus of Braga; as well as Bl. Joachim Piccolomini.

For all those received into the Church, and for their sponsors and teachers...

For those travelling during this holiday...

For those who spend this day and every day alone...

For those for whom this day is marred by tragedy (remembering especially the families of Purvis Virginia Parker and Quadrevion Henning)

For the homeless...

For the mentally ill, and for their caregivers...

For the owners and patrons of coffeehouses...

For the deaf and all hearing-impaired...

For our Holy Father as he celebrates his 79th birthday...

For peace throughout the world...

For intentions posted on Catholic Fire...

For intentions previously posted on this site...

Hymn for Easter Sunday

Jesus Christ Is Ris'n Today


Jesus Christ is risen today, Alleluia!
Our triumphant holy day, Alleluia!
Who did once, upon the cross, Alleluia!
Suffer to redeem our loss, Alleluia!

Hymns of praise then let us sing, Alleluia!
Unto Christ, our heavenly King, Alleluia!
Who endured the cross and grave, Alleluia!
Sinners to redeem and save, Alleluia!

But the pains which He endured, Alleluia!
Our salvation hath procured, Alleluia!
Now above the sky He’s king, Alleluia!
Where the angels ever sing, Alleluia!

Sing we to our God above, Alleluia!
Praise eternal as His love, Alleluia!
Praise Him, all you heavenly host, Alleluia!
Father, Son, and Holy Ghost, Alleluia!

Prayers for Holy Saturday

Today we ask the intercession of Sts. Hunna and Ruadhan; as well as Bls. Cesar de Bus and Joseph de Veuster.

For operators of dry cleaning stores and laundromats...

For the people of Hawaii...

For those suffering from Hansen's disease...

For the Doctrinarian Fathers...

For those travelling for the Easter Holiday...

For those being received into the Church this Easter Vigil, and for their sponsors and teachers...

For Shawn McElhinney's prayer intentions...

For persecuted Christians, especially in Egypt...

For the victims of the train accident in Indonesia, and for their families...

For peace in the world...

For the intentions listed in Catholic Fire...

For all intentions previously posted on this site...

Hymn for Holy Saturday

Wondrous Love


What wondrous love is this, O my soul, O my soul!
What wondrous love is this, O my soul!
What wondrous love is this that caused the Lord of bliss
To bear the dreadful curse for my soul, for my soul,
To bear the dreadful curse for my soul.

When I was sinking down, sinking down, sinking down,
When I was sinking down, sinking down,
When I was sinking down beneath God’s righteous frown,
Christ laid aside His crown for my soul, for my soul,
Christ laid aside His crown for my soul.

To God and to the Lamb, I will sing, I will sing;
To God and to the Lamb, I will sing.
To God and to the Lamb Who is the great “I Am”;
While millions join the theme, I will sing, I will sing;
While millions join the theme, I will sing.

And when from death I’m free, I’ll sing on, I’ll sing on;
And when from death I’m free, I’ll sing on.
And when from death I’m free, I’ll sing and joyful be;
And through eternity, I’ll sing on, I’ll sing on;
And through eternity, I’ll sing on.

Prayers for Good Friday

Today we may ask the intercession of Sts. Benezet, Lydwina of Schiedam, Marguerite d'Youville and Peter Gonzalez.

For bridgebuilders...

For the chronically ill...

For skaters...

For the Sisters of Charity...

For our Jewish brothers and sisters as they celebrate Passover...

For those travelling for the Easter holiday...

For all being received into the Church this Easter Vigil...

For the repose of the soul of Carlisle Brewer Morrison, David Morrison's father, as well as his family and friends...

For Sherry Weddell's father, Sherry, and their family and friends...

For Sonya's grandmother, Sonya, and their family and friends...

For a personal intention...

For all intentions posted on Catholic Fire...

For all intentions previously posted on this site...

Hymn for Good Friday

Cross of Jesus


Cross of Jesus, cross of sorrow,
Where the blood of Christ was shed,
Perfect Man on thee did suffer,
Perfect God on thee has bled!

Here the King of all the ages,
Throned in light ere worlds could be,
Robed in mortal flesh is dying,
Crucified by sin for me.

O mysterious condescending!
O abandonment sublime!
Very God Himself is bearing
All the sufferings of time!

Evermore for human failure
By His passion we can plead;
God has born all mortal anguish,
Surely He will know our need.

This—all human thought surpassing—
This is earth’s most awful hour,
God has taken mortal weakness!
God has laid aside His Power!

Once the Lord of brilliant seraphs,
Winged with love to do His will,
Now the scorn of all His creatures,
And the aim of every ill.

Up in Heaven, sublimest glory
Circled round Him from the first;
But the earth finds none to serve Him,
None to quench His raging thirst.

Who shall fathom that descending,
From the rainbow circled throne,
Down to earth’s most base profaning,
Dying desolate alone.

From the “Holy, Holy, Holy,
We adore Thee, O most High,”
Down to earth’s blaspheming voices
And the shout of “Crucify.”

Cross of Jesus, cross of sorrow,
Where the blood of Christ was shed,
Perfect Man on thee did suffer,
Perfect God on thee has bled!

Prayers for Holy Thursday

Today we ask the intercession of Sts. Hermengild and Pope Martin I; as well as Bls. John Lockwood and Margaret of Castello.

For the Holy Father, and for his intentions...

For converts, especially those being received into the Church this Easter Vigil...

For the disabled and chronically ill...

For the poor among us...

For those who fight for the right to life....

For those making Confession and seeking Reconciliation...

For those affected by mudslides in Northern California, especially Walter Guthrie and his family and friends...

For Hannah Clark, as well as her family and friends...

For the repose of the soul of a pilot whose helicopter crashed in Wisconsin, as well as his family and friends...

For peace throughout the world, especially in the Middle East...

For a personal intention...

For all intentions posted on Catholic Fire...

For all intentions previously posted on this site...

Hymn for Holy Thursday

Draw Nigh and Take the Body of the Lord


Draw nigh and take the body of the Lord;
And drink the holy blood for you outpoured.
Saved by that body and that holy blood,
With souls refreshed, we render thanks to God.

Salvation’s Giver, Christ, the only Son,
By His dear cross and blood the victory won.
Offered was He for greatest and for least,
Himself the Victim, and Himself the Priest.

Victims were offered by the law of old,
Which in a type this heavenly mystery told.
He, Ransomer from death, and Light from shade,
Now gives His holy grace His saints to aid.

Approach ye then with faithful hearts sincere,
And take the safeguard of salvation here.
He, that His saints in this world rules and shields,
To all believers life eternal yields.

With heavenly bread makes them that hunger whole,
Gives living waters to the thirsting soul,
Alpha and Omega, to Whom shall bow
All nations at the doom, is with us now.

Prayers for Wedensday of Holy Week

Today we ask the intercession of Sts. Pope Julius I and Zeno of Verona; as well as Bls. Alferius, Angelo Carletti di Chivasso, and William Ward.

For the Holy Father, and for his intentions...

For fishermen and anglers...

For children with developmental disabilities...

For newborn babies and their parents...

For peace throughout the world, especially in the Middle East...

For a personal intention...

For all intentions posted on Catholic Fire...

For all intentions previously posted on this site...

Hymn for Wedensday of Holy Week

When I Survey the Wondrous Cross


When I survey the wondrous cross
On which the Prince of glory died,
My richest gain I count but loss,
And pour contempt on all my pride.

Forbid it, Lord, that I should boast,
Save in the death of Christ my God!
All the vain things that charm me most,
I sacrifice them to His blood.

See from His head, His hands, His feet,
Sorrow and love flow mingled down!
Did e’er such love and sorrow meet,
Or thorns compose so rich a crown?

His dying crimson, like a robe,
Spreads o’er His body on the tree;
Then I am dead to all the globe,
And all the globe is dead to me.

Were the whole realm of nature mine,
That were a present far too small;
Love so amazing, so divine,
Demands my soul, my life, my all.

Prayers for Tuesday of Holy Week

Today we ask the intercession of Sts. Antipas, Gemma Galgani, Godeberta, and Stanislaus of Cracow; as well as Bl. George Gervase.

For the people of Poland...

For all who work in the pharmaceutical field...

For those who have lost their parents at an early age...

For regions suffering from drought...

For all members of the armed forces, especially those serving far from home...

For persecuted Christians throughout the world...

For the victims of a vehicle collision in China...

For a personal intention...

For all intentions posted on Catholic Fire...

For all intentions previously posted on this site...

Hymn for Tuesday in Holy Week

In Thee, O Lord, I Put My Trust


In Thee, O Lord, I put my trust;
Shamed let me never be;
O save me in Thy righteousness,
Give ear, and rescue me.
Be Thou my rock, my dwelling place,
Forever mine, as now;
Salvation Thou hast willed for me,
My rock and fortress, Thou.

Deliver me from wicked hands,
Save me from men unjust,
For Thou, Jehovah, art my hope,
From youth Thou art my trust.
Thou hast upheld me in Thy grace,
From childhood’s early days;
To Thee from whom I life received
Will I give constant praise.

Though troubles great o’ershadow me,
Thou art my refuge strong,
My mouth shall praise Thee all the day,
Thine honor be my song.
Cast me not off when hoary age
Becomes my weary lot,
And in the days of failing strength
Do Thou forsake me not.

My foes are strong and confident
For I to them appear
As one forsaken by his God,
With none to help me near.
My God, be Thou not far from me,
Make haste to hear my call;
Ashamed, consumed be all my foes,
Dishonored let them fall.

But I will ever hope in Thee,
My ceaseless praise is Thine;
I will declare Thy countless deeds
Of truth and grace divine.
Yea, I will tell the mighty acts
Performed by God the Lord;
Thy righteousness and Thine alone,
With praise I will record.

Prayers for Monday in Holy Week

Today we ask the intercession of Sts. Macarius of Antioch and Michael de Sanctis.

For peace throughout the world, especially the Middle East...

For all faithful peoples preparing for the celebration of Easter...

For a personal intention...

For all intentions posted on Catholic Fire...

For all intentions previously posted on this site...

Hymn for Monday in Holy Week

Once He Came in Blessing


Once He came in blessing,
All our ills redressing,
Came in likeness lowly,
Son of God most holy;
Bore the cross to save us,
Hope and freedom gave us.

Still He comes within us,
Still His voice would win us
From the sins that hurt us;
Would to truth convert us
From our foolish errors,
Ere He comes in terrors.

Thus if Thou hast known Him,
Not ashamed to own Him,
Nor dost love Him coldly,
But will trust Him boldly,
He will now receive thee,
Heal thee, and forgive thee.

He who well endureth,
Bright reward secureth;
Come, then, O Lord Jesus,
From our sins release us;
Let us here confess Thee,
Till in Heav’n we bless Thee.

Prayers for Palm Sunday

Today we ask the intercession of Sts. Casilda of Toledo, Mary of Cleophas, and Waltrude; as well as Bl. Innocent of Berzo.

For couples trying to have children...

For peace throughout the world...

For a personal intention...

For all intentions posted on Catholic Fire...

For all intentions previously posted on this site...

Hymn for Palm Sunday

Ride On, Ride On In Majesty!

Ride on, ride on, in majesty!
Hark! all the tribes Hosanna cry;
O Savior meek, pursue Thy road
With palms and scattered garments strowed.

Ride on, ride on, in majesty!
In lowly pomp ride on to die!
O Christ! Thy triumph now begin
Over captive death and conquered sin.

Ride on, ride on, in majesty!
The wingèd squadrons of the sky
Look down with sad and wondering eyes
To see the approaching sacrifice.

Ride on, ride on, in majesty!
Thy last and fiercest strife is nigh;
The Father, on His sapphire throne,
Expects His own anointed Son.

Ride on, ride on, in majesty!
In lowly pomp ride on to die;
Bow Thy meek head to mortal pain,
Then take, O God, Thy power, and reign.