Which reminds me of the old joke. A fellow asked a Franciscan if it was o.k. to pray a novena for a new BMW. Franciscan asked, "What's a BMW?"
Asked a Jesuit the same question, he asked, "What's a novena?"
Very good joke, and thanks for the correction.
I heard an updated version of the joke with a Lexus. Truth be told, though, most Jesuits are familiar with the Novena to St. Francis Xavier, one of their founding fathers:
O most lovable and loving Saint Francis Xavier in union with thee I adore the Divine Majesty. The remembrance of the favors with which God blessed thee during life and of thy glory after death fills me with joy; and I unite with thee in offering to Him my humble tribute of thanksgiving and of praise. I implore thee to secure for me through thy powerful intercession the inestimable blessing of living and dying in the state of grace. I also beseech thee to obtain for me the favor I ask in this novena. (Mention your intentions here, or simply pause to allow people to form their intentions silently if this is being prayed publicly) But if what I ask is not for the glory of God and for the good of my soul do thou obtain for me what is more conducive to both. Amen.
V: Pray for us, Saint Francis Xavier,
R: That we may be made worthy of the promises of Christ.
Recite one Our Father, one Hail Mary, and one Glory Be