I am going to reveal to you the secret of sanctity and happiness. Every day for five minutes control your imagination and close your eyes to all the noises of the world in order to enter into yourself. Then, in the sanctuary of your baptized soul (which is the temple of the Holy Spirit) speak to that Divine Spirit, saying to Him:
O Holy Spirit, beloved of my soul, I adore You.
Enlighten me, guide me, strengthen me, console me.
Tell me what I should do; give me Your orders.
I promise to submit myself to all that You desire of me
and to accept all that You permit to happen to me.
Let me only know Your Will.
If you do this, your life will flow along happily, serenely, and full of consolation, even in the midst of trials. Grace will be proportioned to the trial, giving you the strength to carry it and you will arrive at the Gate of Paradise, laden with merit. This submission to the Holy Spirit is the secret of sanctity.
The emergence of A Prayer to the Holy Spirit (by Cardinal Mercier)
A Prayer to the Holy Spirit, also known as the “Cardinal Mercier Prayer,” is a popular Catholic prayer. It was written by Cardinal Désiré-Joseph Mercier, who served as the Archbishop of Malines, Belgium from 1906 to 1926.
The prayer is believed to have been written during World War I when Cardinal Mercier fervently prayed for the Holy Spirit’s guidance and protection for his country and its people. The prayer expresses a deep reliance on the Holy Spirit’s power and guidance in times of trial and difficulty.
The prayer quickly gained popularity and was adopted into the Catholic faith. It has been translated into many languages and remains a powerful reminder of the Holy Spirit’s role in the lives of believers.
Today, the Prayer to the Holy Spirit is often recited during Pentecost, a celebration of the Holy Spirit’s descent upon the Apostles. It is also used as a personal prayer, calling on the Holy Spirit to provide strength, wisdom, and guidance in daily life.
The prayer’s enduring popularity is a testament to its ability to provide comfort and hope to believers in difficult times. It is a reminder of the Holy Spirit’s constant presence and the power it provides to believers who call upon it in prayer.