Summary: <br> St. Francis de Sales Novena Day 1<br> Day 1<br> <br> There is no clock, no matter how good it may be, that doesn’t need resetting and rewinding twice a day, once in the morning and once in the evening. In addition, at least once a year it must be taken apart to remove the dirt clogging it, straighten out bent parts and repair those worn out. In like manner, every morning and evening a person who really takes care of his heart must rewind it for God’s service by means of certain practices of piety. At least once a year he must take it apart and examine every piece in detail; that is, every affection and passion, in order to repair whatever defects there may be. (INT. Part 5, Ch. 1; O. III, p. 340)<br> <br> O blessed Francis de Sales, who on earth did excel in a life of virtue,<br> especially in the love of God and neighbor,<br> I earnestly ask you to take me under your compassionate care and protection.<br> Obtain for me conversion of mind and heart.<br> Grant that all people,<br> especially (names of those whom you wish to include) may experience<br> the depth of God’s redeeming and healing love.<br> Teach me to fix my eyes on the things of heaven<br> even as I walk each day with my feet planted firmly on the earth.<br> Help me, through the practice of virtue and the pursuit of devotion,<br> to avoid anything that would otherwise cause me to stumble<br> in my attempt to follow Christ<br> and to be an instrument of the Holy Spirit.<br> Encouraged by your prayers and example,<br> help me to live fully my sacred dignity<br> with the hope of experiencing my sacred destiny:<br> eternal life with God.<br> Receive also this particular need or concern<br> that I now lift up in prayer. (mention your particular need).<br> O God, for the salvation of all,<br> you desired that St. Francis de Sales—<br> preacher, missionary, confessor, bishop and founder—<br> should befriend many long the road to salvation.<br> Mercifully grant that we,<br> infused with the humility and gentleness of his charity,<br> guided by his wisdom and sharing in his spirit<br> may experience eternal life.<br> We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen.<br> St. Francis de Sales, pray for us.<br> For the complete <a href="https://www.discerninghearts.com/catholic-podcasts/prayersdevotionals/st-francis-de-sales-novena-mp3-audio-download-and-text/">9-Day St. Francis de Sales Novena – Mp3 audio and text</a> visit <a href="https://www.discerninghearts.com/catholic-podcasts/prayersdevotionals/st-francis-de-sales-novena-mp3-audio-download-and-text/">here</a><br> <br>
