Novena for the Removal
of Skunk Odor
A prayer of petition and patience
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Opening Prayer — prayed each day
Lord Jesus Christ, you govern all creation, from the stars in their courses to the creatures of the earth. In your providence you have permitted this trial of the senses to enter our home. We ask your mercy and your aid. Amen.
Lord, I trust that you care for the small frustrations of daily life as much as the great sufferings. Let this inconvenience not disturb my peace. Amen.
Father, the skunk did nothing wrong. It acted according to its nature, as you made it. Give me patience with your creatures and with myself. Amen.
Holy Spirit, guide my hands to the right remedy. Bless the hydrogen peroxide, the baking soda, and the dish soap. May they work as you intend. Amen.
Lord, the smell persists. So does your grace. Grant me the endurance of the saints, who suffered far greater assaults. Amen.
Saint Francis of Assisi, patron of animals, intercede for us. May the creature who visited us go in peace and not return. Amen.
Lord, I thank you that my family is safe, that the dog is only temporarily odious, and that this, too, shall pass. Amen.
Father, help me not to love this house so much that its smell becomes my spiritual enemy. All earthly things will pass. The smell included. Amen.
Lord, I believe the air will be clean again. I believe guests will return. I believe the dog will be permitted back on the couch. Strengthen my hope. Amen.
Lord, whether the smell is gone or merely diminished, I thank you for nine days of prayer that would not have happened otherwise. You drew good from it, as you always do. Amen.
Closing Prayer — prayed each day
Mary, Queen of All Creation, intercede for our household. May it be a place of peace, welcome, and reasonably tolerable air quality. We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen.
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