A novena to St. Catherine of Siena, day six.

To brother Ramondo of Capua at Avignon.

I do not want you to fall into weariness or confusion through any vexations that you might feel in your mind.

But I want you to keep that good and holy and true faithful will,

which I know that God and His mercy has given you.

Yes, I want that out of the shadows should issue knowledge of yourself,

free from confusion.

Reflect that through love he keeps your will good, and does not let it run by its own

consent or pleasure after the suggestions of the devil.

And so, through love, he has permitted to you and me and his other servants, the many vexations and deceits of the devil, and fellow creatures, and our own flesh, solely in order that we might rise from negligence and reach perfect seal, true humility, and most ardent charity. Humility,

which comes from knowledge of self, charity which comes from knowledge of the goodness of God.

There is the soul inspired and consumed by love.

Heavenly Father, your glory is in your saints.

We praise your glory in the life of the admirable St. Catherine of Siena, virgin, and doctor of the church.

Her whole life was a noble sacrifice,

inspired Biden, ardent love of Jesus,

your unblemished lamb.

In troubled times,

she strenuously upheld the rights of his beloved spouse, the church.

Father, honor her merits and hear her prayers for each of us. Help us to pass unscathed

through the corruption of this world and to remain unshakably faithful to the church in word, deed,

and example. Help us always to see in the vicar of Christ an anchor in the storms of life and a beacon of light to the harbor of your love, in this dark night of your times and men's souls.

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