O Lord, who hast mercy upon all,
take away from me my sins,
and mercifully kindle in me
the fire of thy Holy Spirit.
Take away from me the heart of stone,
and give me a heart of flesh,
a heart to love and adore Thee,
a heart to delight in Thee,
to follow and enjoy Thee, for Christ’s sake, Amen
St. Ambrose of Milan (AD 339-397)
Where did this prayer come from? Penitential Prayer of St. Ambrose of Milan
The Penitential Prayer of St. Ambrose of Milan is a Catholic prayer that originated in the early Christian church, and is traditionally associated with the season of Lent. Saint Ambrose was a prominent bishop and theologian in the fourth century, known for his piety and commitment to the Christian faith.
The Penitential Prayer of St. Ambrose of Milan is a powerful expression of repentance and spiritual renewal. It is typically recited during Lent, as a reminder of the need for ongoing repentance and conversion.
One of the most striking features of the prayer is its imagery, which evokes the timeless themes of sin, confession, and redemption. The prayer begins with a call to repent, and acknowledges the challenges inherent in the spiritual life.
The prayer has undergone various adaptations and translations over the centuries, but its essential message has remained the same: to express sorrow for sin, and to seek God’s forgiveness and mercy.
Today, the Penitential Prayer of St. Ambrose of Milan remains an important part of the Catholic spiritual tradition, particularly during the season of Lent. It is a powerful reminder of the transformative power of God’s love and mercy, and of the ongoing need for spiritual renewal.
In conclusion, the Penitential Prayer of St. Ambrose of Milan is a beautiful and powerful expression of Catholic faith, one that invites believers to deepen their repentance, and to seek God’s mercy and forgiveness in all things. It is a prayer that has been cherished and passed down through the centuries, a sacred reminder of the enduring beauty and mystery of God’s love.