Mary, Comfort of the Afflicted

From the Novena to Our Lady of Lourdes

Sacred Scripture: 2 Corinthians 1:3-4

Meditation for Day 6

Our Lady of Lourdes is the 'Comfortess of the Afflicted.' St. Paul blesses 'the Father of mercies and God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our affliction' (2 Cor 1:3-4) — and Mary is the channel of that maternal consolation.

Today's prayer brings to her every grief and heartache — the lonely, the grieving, the discouraged — asking that she who stood beneath the Cross would console all who carry heavy burdens.

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.