Meaning in suffering, united to Christ

From the Novena to Our Lady of Lourdes

Sacred Scripture: Romans 8:18

Meditation for Day 7

Not every pilgrim to Lourdes is cured in body, yet none who come in faith go away empty. St. Paul teaches that 'the sufferings of this present time are not worth comparing with the glory that is to be revealed' (Rom 8:18). Suffering offered with Christ becomes redemptive.

Today's prayer asks Our Lady to help the sick find meaning in their suffering by uniting it to the Cross, transforming affliction into a path of grace for themselves and for the Church.

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.