Novena in Honour of the Annunciation

O ADMIRABLE Virgin, the most exalted, yet the most humble among all creatures, I salute thee in union with the respect and veneration of the angel who was deputed from heaven to hail thee full of grace, and to choose thee for the Mother and Sanctuary of the Author of grace. O most happy Mother, most pure Virgin, most favoured among all women, shall not I join with all generations in calling thee blessed? Why cannot I share in the profound feelings of humiliation which filled thy soul, even in the moment of thy glorious exaltation? O most humble, but most privileged “handmaid of the Lord,” since thou hast found grace before God, obtain for me that invaluable treasure, and fidelity to practise all that it requires. Since thou hast never felt the anguish which springs from sin, and wert never degraded by a single imperfection, thou hast no cause to fear those tremendous judgments which should make me tremble. O powerful Protectress of those who trust in thee, O refuge of sinners, whose misfortunes thou well knowest how to compassionate, shield me from the anger of thy divine Son, and since it is by thee he comes to us, may we by thee attain to the enjoyment of his adorable presence in heaven. Amen.