For the Conversion of the Heathen
A historical prayer for conversion attributed in print to St. Francis Xavier.
Historical edition. Historical claims and instructions are preserved as historical context.
O ETERNAL God, Creator of all things, remember that the souls of unbelievers, heretics, and sinners were made by thee, and fashioned to thy own image and likeness. Behold, O Lord, how many of them go down into hell, to the dishonour of thy holy Name. Remember that thy beloved Son Jesus hath suffered a most cruel death for their salvation. Suffer not, I beseech thee, O Lord, thy Son to be any longer despised by unbelievers, heretios, and sinners; but graciously hear the prayers of holy men and of all the Church, the most holy spouse of thy Son; remember thy mercies and thy compassions; remember no more their idolatry, their unbelief, their hardness of heart, nor their evil will; but give them grace at length to know, to fear, and to love him whom thou hast sent, Jesus Christ our Lord, who is our salvation, our life and resurrection, through whom we are saved and made free, to whom be all glory for evermore. Amen.