Prayer, best preparation...

 "The name of Jesus is the glory of preachers, because the shining 

splendor of that name causes His Word to be proclaimed
and heard.  And how do you think such an immense,
sudden and dazzling light of faith came into the world, 
if not because Jesus was preached?" - St Bernardine of Siena

"Prayer is the best preparation 
for Holy Communion. 
Prayer is the raising of the mind to God.
When we pray we go to meet Christ Who is coming to us.
If our Creator and Savior comes from heaven with such great love, 
it is only fitting that we should go to meet Him.
And this is what we do when we spend some time in prayer."

St Bernardine of Siena

Italy ~ 1380-1444
Orphaned young
Franciscan friar

Itinerant preacher, theological writer

Known as "Apostle of Italy"

for efforts to revive faith in 15th century 

Feast Day - May 20

Painting above: Women Praying at Kotel ~ Brocha Teichman

Especially known for his devotion to the Holy Name of Jesus, 

Bernardine devised a symbol—IHS, the first three letters

of the name of Jesus in Greek, in Gothic letters on a blazing sun.

  

"Jesus, Name full of glory, grace, love and strength! 

You are the refuge of those who repent, our banner of warfare in this life, 

the medicine of souls, the comfort of those who mourn, the delight of those 

who believe, the light of those who preach the true faith, the wages of those who toil, the healing of the sick.  To You our devotion aspires; by You our prayers are received; we delight in contemplating You. O Name of Jesus, 

You are the glory of all the saints for eternity. Amen." 

 St Bernardine

Click here: Discovering our Saints - St. Bernardine of Siena - YouTube

Click here: St. Bernardine of Siena - YouTube (2 mins)

Catholic Culture Library: St. Bernardino Fostered Holy Name Devotion

St Bernardine, pray for us!