Novena to St. John Bosco, Day 4

4th Day (January 25) - For Young People

From the Holy Gospel according to Matthew

Then children were brought to him that he might lay his hands on them and pray. The disciples rebuked them, but Jesus said, “Let the children come to me, and do not prevent them; for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these.” After he placed his hands on them, he went away.

From the Memoirs of the Oratory of St. Francis de Sales

Meanwhile I thought a great deal about how to go ahead with my studies. I would see good priests working at their sacred ministry, but I could not strike up a close relationship with them. Often I would meet on the road our parish priest or his curate. I would greet them at a distance and bow to them as they passed. In their distant and courteous manner, they would return my greeting and go on their way. Often, I used to cry and say to myself and even to others, "If I were a priest, I would act differently. I would approach the children, say some kind words to them, and give them good advice. How happy I would be if I could talk with my parish priest as I used to talk with Fr Calosso. Why shouldn't it be so?"

Novena Prayer

O Saint John Bosco, you became father, teacher, and friend to young people by the great love and personal sacrifice with which you worked for their salvation. Pray for us that, inspired by your example, we also may love this chosen portion of God's flock with Christ's own pastoral charity, and receive every child as we would the Lord Jesus himself.

Through your intercession may God grant me the following grace... [pause]... so that together with others I may assist and help young people in today's society.

Our Father... Hail Mary... Glory be to the Father...