Today is the beginning of the Pentecost Novena! Providentially, Pentecost falls this year on what would be the feast of the Visitation. You may know that in some countries and liturgical tradition, this day is a celebration of the reality and sanctity of human life  in the womb. Additionally, in St. Francis de Sales’ Sermons on Our Lady, he reminds us how Our Lady is a channel through whom the Holy Spirit passes, and that when we ask for the Holy Spirit and His Gifts, such as we do when we pray the Pentecost Novena, we should remember to ask for Our Lady’s intercession and that of the Saints, like Elizabeth. (The Sermons of St. Francis De Sales on Our Lady reviews and information.)

So, there are tons of novenas you could draw from or use, but I like this one in particular because it speaks of creation, light and darkness and love and life. (H/T Father Frank Pavone)

Holy Spirit,
At the dawn of creation,
You brought order out of chaos,
Light out of darkness,
Life out of nothingness.

Breathe on us once again,
And change this culture of death
Into a Culture of Life.

Inspire in your people
A spirit of generous welcome
For each and every life,
No matter how unexpected or dependent
That life may be.

Holy Spirit,
You are the Advocate.
As you fill us with Yourself,
Make us advocates
For the unborn and all the vulnerable,

Until we are all united
In the endless life and joy
of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit,
One God, forever and ever. Amen.