Novena of the Holy Spirit: Pentecost in Our Times - Day Three

The following novena is based on traditional prayers, and is centered on the gifts associated with the Holy Spirit (wisdom, understanding, counsel, fortitude, knowledge, piety and fear of the Lord). These form a supernatural framework through which the Holy Spirit moves us from within, by conforming us to the very mode of his own action. Also reflected in the novena are the so-called “fruits” or perfections that the Holy Spirit forms in us as a pledge of eternal glory. These are charity, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, generosity, gentleness, faithfulness, modesty, self-control and chastity. Both the gifts and fruits of the Holy Spirit are ordered to the mission we have as baptized Christians to live and proclaim our new life in Christ.


Third Day: The Gift of Fortitude - May 4, 2008 (Liturgical observance of the Ascension of the Lord)

Leader: Come Holy Spirit, fill the hearts of your faithful,

Response: Enkindle in them the fire of your love.

Leader: Send forth your Spirit, and they shall be created.

Response: And you shall renew the face of the earth.

Leader: Fortitude is steadfastness in doing what is right and good, in the face of obstacles and trials. The gift of fortitude overcomes unreasonable fears, on the one hand, and keeps us from being reckless, on the other. It is the special virtue of those who are pioneers in any endeavor. Fortitude makes it possible for us to undertake difficult tasks, to face risks and dangers, and to endure whatever comes without undue anxiety, discouragement or complaint. Without fortitude we cannot hope to persevere in our Christian calling. Nor can we fulfill the mission that is ours by Baptism and Confirmation, to bear witness to the gospel for the salvation of the world. May the Holy Spirit renew our fortitude amid all the challenges of today’s society and culture.

Leader: Let us pray.

All: Almighty Father, be gracious and bless us with the gift of the Holy Spirit, so that we may persevere with fortitude in doing what we know to be right and good. Strengthen us in our weakness, so that when we are weary, discouraged or put to the test, we may overcome every obstacle, and be refreshed on the path to holiness and virtue. May no trial or difficulty keep us from bearing witness to the splendor of truth which radiates from the face of Jesus Christ, in whose name we pray, now and forever. Amen.

Leader: Mary, Tower of Fortitude,

Response: Pray for us.


Click here to download a PDF of the full Novena Booklet

Para una versión española, empuje aquí


Previous Pro Ecclesia posts on this subject:
Novena of the Holy Spirit: Pentecost in Our Time - Day Two

Novena of the Holy Spirit: Pentecost in Our Time - Day One

Diocese of Toledo Makes Novena Booklet Available: "Novena to the Holy Spirit - Pentecost in Our Time" [UPDATED]

Bishop Blair: "Come Holy Spirit"