We are called to be witnesses as we head towards the start of the school year, in a time of such uncertainty, that we can be assured that God cares for us, is with us, saves us.
Together, we in the Diocese of Hamilton are providing spiritual support for all those entering the “uncharted waters” of the upcoming school year.
Beginning Monday, August 31st, we will join together in prayer over nine days – the traditional novena prayer for special intentions – as parishes and schools, staff and students, parents and grandparents, parishioners, and community members, and we will pray for the protection of all, for the peace of all, for the wisdom and courage for us all.
Our Novena will come to completion on the first day of school – September 8th, the Feast of the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary and we will offer our Novena prayer in union with her:
Novena prayer in preparation for the school year – 2020-21
O God, who gave us your only Son so that we may have everlasting life, may we be confident in your love and mercy. May we look forward to this coming school year knowing you are always with us. Through Christ our Lord. Amen
The Bishops of Canada have dedicated our nation to Mary and have placed us
under her loving protection as she brings our cares and concerns to her Son. The Diocese of Hamilton, including every one of our six English speaking and our one French-speaking school boards, rests under the protection of our Lady of the Annunciation. Like Mary, let us ponder all God has done for us, let us be filled with the Holy Spirit, and let us always turn to her Son who died to save us and is even now at our side, strengthening us.
Click here to download the Adobe Acrobat full text of the Novena including brief reflections for each day.