Novena to Saint Martina of Rome, Virgin, Martyr 1

Jan 21 - 29

Novena to Saint Martina of Rome, Virgin, Martyr 1

Jan 21 - 29

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Citizens of Rome! sing to the celebrated name of the glorious Martina. Sing the praises of this admirable Virgin and Martyr of Christ.

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She was born of noble parents, and was brought up in every delicacy, surrounded by all that could pamper nature, and with riches of a princely house at her command.

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But she spurns these luxuries, dedicates herself to the Creator of all things, and with a liberal hand distributes her riches to the poor of Christ, that she may gain the riches of heaven.

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She shrinks not at the torturing hook, the wild beasts, or the cruel wound-inflicting rods. Angels descend from heaven, comforting her with divine food.

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The very lions lose their fierceness, and tamely come crouching at her feet. The sword, Martina gave thee the wished-for death, and death united thee to the choirs of heaven.

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Our ceaseless prayers mount up to thee from thine altar, where clouds of incense shroud devotion's love; and thy blessed name banishes that of the false deity Mars.

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Do thou protect thy fatherland and give to Christian countries the rest of holy peace, driving unto Thracian coasts the din of arms and war.

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Marshal the armies of princes under the banner of the Cross, deliver Jerusalem from her chains. Avenge innocent blood, and once for all crush down the Turkish foe.

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O thou our Patron, and our City's Saint I see this homage of our loving hearts. Hear the prayers of thy Rome, which on this festive day offers thee its hymns and reveres thy name.

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O God, whose arm protects the Martyrs, take from us the pleasures which would make us fall. O Triune God, give to Thy servants the blessed light, wherewith Thy mercy crowns the soul with bliss.

Amen.