On the traditional Roman calendar, 22 September honours St Thomas of Villanova, a sixteenth-century Spanish Augustinian friar who became archbishop of Valencia. He gave away almost all of his income, mended his own clothes, and fed hundreds of poor people at his door every day. He was called “the father of the poor” and “the almsgiver.”
Historical Context
Villanova University in Pennsylvania, founded by Augustinians in 1842, is named after him.
A September 22 Prayer
Lord of the seasons, the year is turning.
Thank you for summer’s light and for the harvest.
As the days grow shorter, give me balance:
between work and rest, giving and receiving, activity and prayer.
Help me let go of what this season is asking me to release.
And like St Thomas of Villanova, make me generous to the poor.
Amen.
For the Harvest
Lord, bless farmers bringing in the harvest,
and let there be enough for every table.
Amen.
For Generosity
St Thomas of Villanova, father of the poor,
pray that I may give freely.
Amen.
Best Times for This Prayer
- On the autumn equinox.
- At the start of a new school or work season.
- At a harvest festival.
Scripture Connection
“To every thing there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven.” — Ecclesiastes 3:1
The equinox is a natural reminder that life has seasons. Each one has its purpose, including the ones that ask us to slow down.
Related prayers
For September, see the September 13 Prayer and September 27 Prayer. For weather, the Prayer to St Medard.