Seventh- and eighth-graders in the Diocese of Davenport were invited to submit an original prayer for Advent to be published in The Catholic Messenger. Prayers reflect on a Scripture from one of the four Sundays of Advent: Dec. 2, 9, 16 and 23.
We are grateful for the response. Each week in Advent we have printed two prayers selected from among the entries submitted.
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O Lord God, we praise you above all things. You are most holy, and we adore you. We come into your presence even though you are much greater than us.
We are celebrating the great season of Advent with you today. We glorify your name in preparation for your son, Jesus Christ. We give thanks to you for giving us your son.
Thank you, Heavenly Father, for the chance to pray to you today and the chance to have eternal life through you. Through you we have the opportunities to praise and worship the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. We come in praise and preparation for your Son and his second coming.
You are ever present, O Lord. You guide all things in praise to you. Without your presence, we would be nothing. Your presence brings joy and life to the world. We praise you for all things you have done for us.
We pray that we are thankful and loving this Advent season, in remembrance of what you have done for us. We ask this prayer through Christ, our Lord. Amen.
By Jacob Townsley, 12, St. Joseph Catholic School, DeWitt.
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Repent and be happy. The Son of God is coming to us. One so great, he is praised above all names. The most holy Son is coming so be ready. Share what you have with your neighbors and all you know. The mountains in their greatness will be lowered and all crooked things straightened. The light of the world is coming in all his glory. In your hearts, know that a holy divine person will soon be among us. Hear the sound of angels singing in your mind. Accept his greatness and lower yourself, too. With a repentant and happy heart prepare for the Lamb of God, Jesus Christ.
By CJ Dupuis, 12, Notre Dame Jr./Sr. High School, Burlington.
