This wonderful prayer is part of the 9th day of the St. Augustine of Hippo Novena. Aurelius Augustinus was born in 354 and is one of the Latin Fathers of the Church and maybe one of the essential Christian founders along with St Paul and St Luke. His teachings are responsible for a great deal of Christian thinking and has had a lasting influence on us.
He was formally recognized by the Vatican as a Doctor of the Church, an honor bestowed on only the greatest theologians of all time.
Like St Patrick, he wrote a Confessional that remains as one of the earliest insights into the life of a Christian in the 4th century.
Heavenly Father, we turn to you now with the intentions we hold in our hearts, as pray as St. Augustine has taught:
Spirit of Wisdom and Understanding, enlighten my mind to perceive the mysteries of the Universe in relation to eternity.
Spirit of Right Judgment and Courage, guide me to make firm in my baptismal decision to follow Jesus’ way of Love.
Spirit of Knowledge and Reverence, help me to see the lasting value of justice and mercy in my everyday dealings with others. May I respect life as I work to solve problems within my family and nation, economy and ecology.
Spirit of God, spark my Faith, Hope and Love into new action each day. Fill my life with Wonder and Awe in Your Presence, which penetrates all Creation.
In Jesus Christ’s name I pray, who lives and reigns with the Father and the Holy Spirit One God forever and ever.
Amen