How to Make a Novena of Communions
1. Receive Holy Communion nine days in a row or on nine consecutive Sundays in petition for a special favor. If you are receiving on nine Sundays, you need not go to Confession before each Holy Communion (though it is very beneficial to do so), unless you are sure that you have committed a mortal sin. Venial sins should not keep you from receiving. If you feel conscious of venial sin, make an act of perfect contrition and approach the Holy Table without fear. It is advisable, however, to go to Confession at least every two or three weeks.
2. Ask Jesus to help you to practice the virtue suggested for each day of the novena. Recite the prayers carefully, and preferably after Holy Communion. Frequently during the day use the aspiration suggested as a means to keep your mind on the virtue. Examine yourself concerning each virtue to see where you should improve.
3. After you have made your novena of petition for a special favor, make another immediately afterwards in thanksgiving, even if you have not received the favor you prayed for. Your prayers at Holy Communion were answered-perhaps not in your way, but in God's way; and He knows best! At least you have done Our Lord's will and fulfilled the desire of Holy Mother Church; you have become a better Catholic for it. Continue to make your novenas of Holy Communions until frequent Holy Communion becomes a part of your very life. Then you will become truly Christlike.
May the Blessed Virgin Mary, Our Lady of the Blessed Sacrament, to whom this booklet is affectionately dedicated, help you, through frequent Holy Communion, to become more like her Eucharistic Son! —Father Lawrence G. Lovasik, S.V.D.—
