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Night of Knights

“A man must go on a quest to discover the sacred fire in the sanctuary of his own belly to ignite the flame in his heart.” -Sam Keen

These First Friday evening gatherings are at the very heart of this apostolate, and they inspire men in two very important ways:

  1. Supernaturally, as it places men in an environment of Awe and Divine Love
    1. Awe, as we reverently place ourselves before the exposed Blessed Sacrament.
    2. Divine Love, as we obediently utilize the rich tradition of Catholic Sacraments and prayers in seeking union with God.
  2. Naturally, as it places men in the company of strength. There are few natural sources of inspiration greater than being in the company of others who share your resolve to be a fully committed Disciple of Christ. 

GATHERING

5:30 PM to 7:00 PM – Men arrive as they are able (business dress, if possible)

The gathering begins at 5:30 PM, one half hour before the optional Holy Hour. For those who are able to break away from job and family to be with us early on, a beautiful Holy Hour for prayer and the reception of the Sacrament of Confession is made available from 6:00 to 7:00 PM. 

HOLY HOUR

6:00 PM – 7:00 PM (optional)

1)      Procession (as Angelus Bells ring, if possible) – The priest, (or deacon) along with two servers, processes to the sanctuary of the church.

2)      Angelus (or Regina Caeli) is prayed while facing Blessed Mother (remain standing).

3)      Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament – All kneel and the Host is exposed by an assistant deacon or priest. All sing, O Salutaris Hostia, and incense is offered as usual.

4)      Confession – Having reverenced the Blessed Sacrament, the celebrant then goes into the Confessional and is available for the Sacrament of Penance until approximately 6:55.

5)      Divine Office – A leader of prayer (deacon, if possible) then leads the men in Vespers.

NIGHT OF PRAYER

7:00 – 8:00 PM

1)      Procession – The priest, (or deacon) along with two servers, processes to the sanctuary of the church (all kneel for Chaplet and Benediction).

2)      Divine Mercy Chaplet

3)      Meditation – Guest priest (deacon or other) gives 30 minute reflection on topic related to masculine spirituality.

4)      Benediction

  1. All sing, Tantum ergo.
  2. Priest stands and goes up to the altar, to the place in front of or behind the altar from where he will bless the assembly with the Blessed Sacrament.
  3. Divine Praises are sung or said.
  4. Reposition – All sing, Holy God We Praise Thy Name. The celebrant goes to the altar to repose the Blessed Sacrament.

5)      Announcements and Thanks Offered to Visiting Priest

  1. At this time it is important to express appreciation to visiting priest(s), especially priest offering the evening meditation.
  2. The announcements are a wonderful time to inform men of the many opportunities to engage the world as a strong Catholic man.

SOCIAL WITH FOOD

8:00 PM

The Knights of Divine Mercy are firm believers in the old adage, “If you feed them, they will come!” This is usually a potluck. Bring whatever you want, unless requested otherwise.