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 minds,  and  frequently  on  our  lips;  that  it  may  be  our defence in  temptations,  and  our  refuge  in  danger  during our  lives;  and  our  consolation  and  support  in  the hour of  death. Amen.

This Novena  is  usually  made  during  the  nine  days  preceding Christmas,  to  prepare  for  the  coming  of  Christ,  and to  obtain  some  particular  favor.

Being fully  recollected  in  spirit,  and  respectfully  kneeling before  the  altar  or  picture  of  the  nativity  of  our  Lord, you  will  address  the  following  petition  to  our  blessed  Lady and  St. Joseph, beginning  with  the  sign  of  the  cross.

MOST sacred  Virgin,  and  blessed  St. Joseph! obtain for  us  the  grace  to  perform  this  Novena with such  attention,  devotion,  and  ardent  charity,  as will  entitle  us  to  join  the  angels  in  rendering  glory  to God. Amen.

Let us  say  twelve  Hail  Marys;  in  remembrance  of  the care and  solicitude  shown  by  our  blessed  Lady,  towards the Infant  Jesus,  till  his  twelfth  year. Hail Mary,  &amp;c.

Let us  say  three  Our  Fathers,  in  honor  of  the  three  years of our  Lord's  infancy. Our Father,  &amp;c.

Let us  make  three  aspirations,  to  incline  the  Infant  Jesus to turn  his  favorable  attention  on  us.

1st. O Divine  Infant  of  Bethlehem,  whom  we  adore and acknowledge  to  be  our  sovereign  Lord! come and take birth  in  our  hearts. Amen.

2d. O Infant  Jesus! grant that  each  moment  of  our fives, we  may  pay  homage  to  that  moment,  in  which thou didst  begin  the  work  of  our  salvation. Amen.

3d; O  sacred  Mother  of  our  Infant  Saviour! obtain that we  may  so  prepare  ourselves  for  his  coming,  as not  to  be  separated  from  him  for  all  eternity. Amen.