A Small Beginning

In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.

God of the lowly, you gave the people of Brazil a sign of maternal care when fishermen found the little image honored as Our Lady of Aparecida. As I begin this novena, receive my intention and draw me closer to Jesus. Through Mary's intercession, deepen my hope, make me attentive to people who are poor or overlooked, and teach me to do whatever your Son asks. Amen.

Let us pause in silence, and bring to mind the intention you are praying for.

In the app, your own saved intention rests here during the silence. The narration stays the same for everyone.

which indeed is smaller than all seeds. But when it is grown, it is greater than the herbs and becomes a tree, so that the birds of the air come and lodge in its branches.

A little image found by fishermen became the center of prayer for a nation and now welcomes pilgrims from far beyond Brazil. The Kingdom often grows this way: quietly, through what appears too small to matter. We do not control that growth. We can faithfully protect the seed, offer hospitality, and let God provide the increase.

Lord of small beginnings, I place before you the work, relationship, or hope that seems too little to matter. Through Mary's prayers, give me patience to tend what you have entrusted to me. Keep me from chasing size for its own sake, and make my life a shelter where another person can rest in your care. Amen.

Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name, thy kingdom come, thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread, and forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us, and lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. Amen.

Hail Mary, full of grace, the Lord is with thee, blessed art thou among women, and blessed is the fruit of thy womb, Jesus. Holy Mary, Mother of God, pray for us sinners, now and at the hour of our death. Amen.

Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit, as it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, world without end. Amen.

Remember, O most gracious Virgin Mary, that never was it known that anyone who fled to your protection, implored your help, or sought your intercession was left unaided. Inspired by this confidence, I fly to you, O Virgin of virgins, my Mother; to you do I come, before you I stand, sinful and sorrowful. O Mother of the Word Incarnate, despise not my petitions, but in your mercy hear and answer me. Amen.

Our Lady of Aparecida, Mother of God and patroness of Brazil, you were welcomed by working people who found your little image in the river. Carry my intention to your Son. Stay close to families, workers, pilgrims, and all whose dignity is denied. Teach me humble faith, steadfast solidarity, and joyful obedience, so that with you I may magnify the Lord and serve his people. Amen.

In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.