importance. It is not alone a prayer, but a sermon as well. It is a
prayer which comprises in itself all other prayers. It is a prayer of
praise, of thanksgiving and supplication. It is, therefore, appropriate
for all occasions. Are you discouraged and faint-hearted, go and say
the "Our Father." The thought that you have an all-merciful Father in
heaven will lift you up, inspire you with confidence and comfort you.
Do self-love and pride strive for the mastery within you, go and say,
"Hallowed be Thy name." Is anger and malice in your heart, say,
"Forgive us our trespasses at we forgive those who trespass against
us." If impatience is your fault say, "Thy will be done on earth, as it
is in heaven." When beset by temptation invoke God: "Lead us not into
temptation," and in trial and adversity beseech God: "Deliver us from
evil."

O that this holy and sublime prayer would be properly understood and
appreciated. What blessings it would produce everywhere. May then our
contemplation contribute with the blessing of God toward our own love
of this wonderful prayer and greater devotion in its recital.




VIII. THE EXCELLENCE OF THE VARIOUS PARTS OF THE ROSARY

(e) _The Hail Mary._


"And the angel said to her: Hail, full of grace, the Lord is with thee,
blessed art thou among women."--Luke i, 28.