Novena to Blessed Hemmin – “God’s gift to Finland”.

The parish of St. Brigid and Blessed Hemming in Turku, where Dehonians serve, is celebrating a novena to Blessed Hemming this year. During the novena, Mass was celebrated every evening, followed by adoration. The last one has been celebrated on May 22, the memorial of Blessed Hemming.  Each day, a different priest from across the diocese presides over the Mass and adoration. Each novena Mass and adoration also had its own theme, which was reflected in the homilies and prayers.

Blessed Hemming (1290-1366) was one of the most important men of the medieval Church in Finland.  He has been called “God’s gift to Finland.” Hemming’s attitude toward the issues and situations he faced motivates us modern people to discover the Lord’s God working where people see mostly evil, horrific war, sin and hard times. Like Blessed Hemming, we want to become instruments of the Lord God in the world to make this world a better place.

Blessed Hemming’s canonization was interrupted in the 15th century due to the Reformation. The process was resumed after 500 years, and Catholics in Finland continue to experience God’s graces through the intercession of St. Brigid’s friend.