A Holy Childhood

From the St. Gerard Majella Novena

Sacred Scripture: Matthew 18:3

Meditation for Day 1

Gerard Majella was born in 1726 in Muro, Italy, the son of a tailor who died when Gerard was only twelve. From boyhood he was marked by an intense love of God and of the poor, learning his father's trade and giving away what little he earned.

As you begin this novena, entrust your family and your intention to the God whom Saint Gerard loved with a child's simplicity, asking for the same trusting heart.

Daily Novena Prayer (recited every day)

Psalm 139:13-14

You formed my inmost being; you knit me in my mother's womb. I praise you, because I am wonderfully made; wonderful are your works! My very self you know.

This psalm of the child knit together in the womb (New American Bible) may be prayed as the daily closing of the novena.