II
Novena in Honor of the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary
FIRST DAY
The Birth of Mary
PREPARATORY PRAYER
We fly to thy patronage, O holy Mother of God. Despise not our petitions in our necessities, and deliver us from all dangers, O ever glorious and blessed Virgin!
MEDITATION
Mary is born! The dawn announcing the coming salvation of mankind is at hand. The deep significance of Mary's birth is expressed in the words of the Church: "Thy birth, O virgin Mother of God, has brought joy to the world; for from thee is to come forth the Sun of Justice, Christ our Lord, to dispel the curse and bring the blessing, to conquer death and bring us everlasting life. On this day a light broke forth to brighten the paths of men through all time. Let us, then, rejoice in Mary's coming."
Equally expressive and touching are the reflections of that great Doctor of the Church, St. Au-
