CATHOLICS URGED TO PRAY A NOVENA FOR THE CONSECRATION OF RUSSIA AND UKRAINE

"We ask the whole Universal Catholic Church to unite itself to our prayers, asking for the forgiveness of sins and praying that this terrible war will end soon" - Archbishop Mieczysław Mokrzycki of Lviv

The Catholic Bishops of Ukraine have asked people around the world to join them in an urgent, nine-day novena beginning on March 17 to conclude on the Solemnity of the Annunciation to the Blessed Virgin Mary on Friday, March 25.

Pope Francis has chosen that day to consecrate Ukraine and Russia to the Immaculate Heart of Mary, a dramatic act aimed at ending the violence that has taken place since Russia invaded Ukraine on Feb. 24.

Archbishop Mieczysław Mokrzycki of Lviv, Ukraine, repeated his request for a worldwide novena: “We ask the whole Universal Catholic Church to unite itself to our prayers, asking for the forgiveness of sins and praying that this terrible war will end soon. Praise be Jesus Christ!"

Catholics worldwide are eager to join in this special time of prayer. But many are asking which novena they ought to pray.

The short answer is that there is no “official” novena tied to the pope’s consecration ceremony. In other words, those wishing to participate may choose any novena they wish.

A novena is simply a daily prayer said over the course of nine days to obtain a special grace.

I, Augustine Mario recommend you join me in making use of this: Novena to the Immaculate Heart of Mary.

This is another short prayer, which recognizes the great purity and love of the heart of the Blessed Virgin Mary for God.

O Most Blessed Mother, heart of love, heart of mercy, ever listening, caring, consoling, hear our prayer. As your children, we implore your intercession with Jesus your Son. Receive with understanding and compassion the petitions we place before you today, especially... (special intention) {for the forgiveness of sins of the people of Russia and Ukraine, praying that this terrible war will end soon}

We are comforted in knowing your heart is ever open to those who ask for your prayer. We trust to your gentle care and intercession, those whom we love and who are sick or lonely or hurting. Help all of us, Holy Mother, to bear our burdens in this life until we may share eternal life and peace with God forever. Amen.

NOTE: This prayer should be said till 25th of March, 2022, for Ukraine and Russia. You may join in making this prayer everyday at your convenience. God bless you.

Rev. Fr. Augustine Mario Nnaji