72. Prayer to Jesus, Lover of Children

300 Days, once a day.* (See Instructions, p. r.) JESUS, friend of children, who from thy most tender years didst grow visibly in wisdom and in grace before Gop and men; who at the age of twelve wast seated in the Temple, in the midst of the doctors, listening to them attentively, humbly asking them questions, and exciting their admira- tion by the prudence and wisdom of thy discourse; who didst receive so willingly the children, bless- ing them and saying to thy disciples: Lez them come to Me, for of such ts the Kingdom of Heaven, inspire me as Thou didst inspire Blessed Peter Canisius, model and guide of the perfect Catechist, with a profound respect and a holy affection for childhood, a taste and a marked devotion for in- structing them in Christian doctrine, a special aptitude in making them understand its mysteries and love its beauties. I ask this of Thee, through the intercession of the blessed Virgin Mary. Amen