The Surrender Novena is a devotion that is gaining popularity among Catholics worldwide. It is a powerful tool for spiritual growth and surrender to the will of God. This devotion has become so popular that many people are now wondering whether it is approved by the Catholic Church. In this article, we will explore the history of the Surrender Novena, its teachings, and whether or not it is approved by the Catholic Church.
The History of The Surrender Novena
The Surrender Novena is a devotion that was first introduced by St. John of the Cross, a Spanish mystic and poet who lived in the 16th century. St. John of the Cross was a Carmelite priest who is famous for his teachings on the mystical life and the path to union with God. He believed that surrender to God was the key to a deeper spiritual life, and he encouraged his followers to practice this devotion in order to deepen their relationship with God.
The Teachings of The Surrender Novena
The Surrender Novena is a nine-day devotion that is designed to help individuals surrender their lives to God. It involves repeating prayers, meditations, and spiritual exercises that help to cultivate a deeper sense of surrender and trust in God. This devotion is based on the teachings of St. John of the Cross and is designed to help individuals let go of their fears and anxieties and allow God to take control of their lives.
One of the key teachings of the Surrender Novena is that God’s will is the best for us, and that we must surrender our own will in order to receive His blessings. This means that we must be willing to let go of our own plans and desires and trust that God’s plan is better than our own. This devotion is designed to help individuals cultivate a deeper sense of trust in God and to surrender their lives to His will.
Is The Surrender Novena Approved By The Catholic Church
The Catholic Church does not officially approve or disapprove of devotions like the Surrender Novena. However, the Church does encourage the faithful to engage in devotions that are based on the teachings of the Church and that promote spiritual growth and a deeper relationship with God.
The Surrender Novena is based on the teachings of St. John of the Cross, who is a recognized saint and doctor of the Church. This devotion is also in line with the teachings of the Church on the importance of surrendering our lives to God and trusting in His will. As such, it can be said that the Surrender Novena is a devotion that is consistent with the teachings of the Catholic Church.
Benefits of Practicing The Surrender Novena
There are many benefits to practicing the Surrender Novena, including:
- Increased Trust in God: By surrendering your life to God, you are expressing your trust in His will and His plan for your life. This can help to deepen your spiritual life and bring you closer to God.
- Greater Peace: When you surrender your life to God, you are letting go of your fears and anxieties and trusting in His love and protection. This can bring you a greater sense of peace and calm.
- Greater Clarity: When you surrender your life to God, you are letting go of your own plans and desires and allowing Him to guide your life. This can help to bring clarity and direction to your life.
- Increased Spirituality: The Surrender Novena is a powerful tool for spiritual growth and can help you to deepen your relationship with God.
The Surrender Novena in Everyday Life
The Surrender Novena can be practiced in a variety of ways, including:
- Through Prayer: Repeat a prayer of surrender each day, such as the St. John of the Cross prayer: “Take, Lord, and receive all my liberty, my memory, my understanding, and my entire will, all that I have and possess. You have given all to me. To you, Lord, I return it. All is yours; do with it what you will. Give me your love and your grace; that is enough for me.”
- Through Meditation: Meditate on the teachings of St. John of the Cross and reflect on how surrendering your life to God can bring you closer to Him.
- Through Service: Serve others in the name of God, letting go of your own desires and allowing Him to guide your actions.
The Surrender Novena can be a valuable tool for spiritual growth and surrender to God’s will. It is important to approach this devotion with an open heart and a desire to deepen your relationship with God.
Final Thoughts
The Surrender Novena is a powerful devotion that is based on the teachings of St. John of the Cross and is designed to help individuals surrender their lives to God and deepen their spiritual life. This devotion can bring many benefits, including increased trust in God, greater peace, greater clarity, and increased spirituality. The Surrender Novena can be practiced in a variety of ways, including through prayer, meditation, and service, and is a valuable tool for spiritual growth and surrender to God’s will.