Freedom in Obedience

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

God of tenderness and providence, you formed St. Gerard in humble service and steadfast trust. As I begin this novena, draw me closer to Christ and, through Gerard's intercession, receive the need I carry. Teach me to serve faithfully in the duties before me. 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.

If you love me, keep my commandments.

Gerard's obedience was not passive resignation; it was a loving gift of himself to God. Christian obedience listens to truth, respects rightful authority, and keeps conscience rooted in Christ. It frees the heart from having to control everything. Discernment prevents obedience from becoming surrender to manipulation or harm.

St. Gerard, obtain for me a teachable and discerning spirit. When God's will is demanding, help me obey through love and remain faithful to what is true and good. Pray that Christ gives me courage to resist commands that contradict the Gospel. 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. Gerard, faithful brother and compassionate friend, pray for me and for all who await God's help. Bring mothers, children, workers, the sick, and the falsely accused before the Lord, and help me follow Jesus with patient love. May my waiting become active charity rather than fear. Amen.

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