Welcome the Children

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

Holy God, you drew St. Francis Xavier from restless ambition into friendship with Christ and sent him across oceans in service of the Gospel. As I begin this novena, receive my intention and reorder my desires. Through his intercession, root me in prayer, teach me to listen with humility, and give me courage to serve across every boundary with freedom, patience, and love. Through Christ our Lord. 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.

But Jesus said, 'Allow the little children, and don't forbid them to come to me; for the Kingdom of Heaven belongs to ones like these.'

In Goa and along India's southern coast, Francis gathered children for prayer and instruction. Whatever his era's limitations, the attention he gave them reminds us that young people are not interruptions to important ministry. They are persons entrusted to our protection. Faith is offered best through patient teaching, safe community, good example, and respect for families.

Father of every child, protect young people from neglect, exploitation, violence, and manipulation. Bless parents, teachers, catechists, and caregivers with patience and sound judgment. Through the prayers of St. Francis Xavier, make me attentive to children who need safety or encouragement. May my words about faith be matched by conduct that respects their dignity and earns trust. 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.

St. Francis Xavier, companion of Ignatius and pilgrim of the Gospel, carry my intention before God. Pray for missionaries, catechists, travelers, migrants, and every person discerning where love is calling them. Ask the Lord to purify our zeal of pride, protect the freedom and dignity of those we meet, deepen our prayer, and make our service patient, truthful, and brave. May Christ complete every good work. Amen.

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