St. John Bosco was a Catholic priest, educator, and founder of the Salesian Society, a religious order dedicated to serving young people. His prayers reflect his deep commitment to youth education, spiritual formation, and devotion to Mary Help of Christians.
Known for his innovative approach to education and youth ministry, St. John Bosco’s prayers emphasize the importance of protecting and guiding young people while trusting in divine providence and Mary’s intercession. His spiritual legacy continues through these prayers, which serve as a source of inspiration for educators, youth ministers, and all those dedicated to the welfare of young people.
Historical Context
Saint: John Bosco (Don Bosco)
Feast Day: January 31
Patronage: Youth, students, young apprentices
Era: 1815-1888 AD
St. John Bosco Prayer 1
O glorious Saint John Bosco,
Who in order to lead young people to the feet of the divine Master
and to mould them in the light of faith and Christian morality
didst heroically sacrifice thyself to the very end of thy life
and didst set up a proper religious Institute
destined to endure and to bring to the farthest boundaries of the earth
thy glorious work,
obtain also for us from Our Lord a holy love for young people
who are exposed to so many seductions
in order that we may generously spend ourselves
in supporting them against the snares of the devil,
in keeping them safe from the dangers of the world,
and in guiding them, pure and holy,
in the path that leads to God.
Amen.
Best Times for This Prayer:
St. John Bosco Prayer 2
O Saint John Bosco,
For I require not only spiritual graces
but also temporal ones,
and particularly (here mention the grace you seek).
May you, who on earth had such great devotion
to Jesus in the Blessed Sacrament,
and to Mary, Help of Christians,
and who always had compassion for those who were in suffering,
obtain from Jesus and from His heavenly Mother
the grace I now request,
and also a sincere resignation to the Will of God.
Amen.
Best Times for This Prayer:
St. John Bosco Prayer 3
Most Holy Virgin Mary,
Help of Christians,
how sweet it is to come to your feet
imploring your perpetual help.
If earthly mothers cease not to remember their children,
how can you, the most loving of all mothers forget me?
Grant then to me, I implore you,
your perpetual help in all my necessities,
in every sorrow, and especially in all my temptations.
I ask for your unceasing help for all who are now suffering.
Help the weak, cure the sick, convert sinners.
Grant through your intercessions many vocations to the religious life.
Obtain for us, O Mary, Help of Christians,
that having invoked you on earth
we may love and eternally thank you in heaven.
Amen.
