The healing spring and the waters of grace

From the Novena to Our Lady of Lourdes

Sacred Scripture: John 4:14

Meditation for Day 3

At Mary's word Bernadette uncovered a spring, and from it have flowed both bodily cures and rivers of grace. Jesus promised the Samaritan woman 'a spring of water welling up to eternal life' (Jn 4:14).

The waters of Lourdes point beyond themselves to the grace of Christ and the cleansing of Baptism. Today's prayer comes to that 'privileged sanctuary' where Our Lady dispenses her favours, with unbounded confidence in her maternal intercession.

Daily Novena Prayer (recited every day)

Prayer to Our Lady of Lourdes

Oh ever immaculate Virgin, Mother of Mercy, Health of the Sick, Refuge of Sinners, Comfortess of the Afflicted, you know my wants, my troubles, my sufferings. Look upon me with mercy. When you appeared in the grotto of Lourdes, you made it a privileged sanctuary where you dispense your favors, and where many sufferers have obtained the cure of their infirmities, both spiritual and corporal. I come, therefore, with unbounded confidence to implore your maternal intercession. My loving Mother, obtain my request. I will try to imitate your virtues so that I may one day share your company and bless you in eternity. Amen.

The traditional prayer to Our Lady of Lourdes, recited each of the nine days. Conclude with one Our Father, Hail Mary, and Glory Be.