What’s a novena?

A novena is a Catholic devotional prayer repeated for nine consecutive days (or sometimes hours) to ask for a specific grace, intention, or spiritual favor.

Origins

The word “novena” comes from the Latin novem, meaning “nine.” It’s inspired by the nine days of prayer the Apostles and the Virgin Mary spent in the Upper Room between the Ascension of Jesus and the coming of the Holy Spirit at Pentecost (Acts 1:12–14).

Purpose of a Novena

• To ask for intercession (often through a saint, Mary, or Jesus)
• To seek help in times of need
• To prepare for feasts or sacraments
• To grow in spiritual discipline and perseverance

Types of Novenas

1. Petition – Asking for a particular favor or grace
2. Thanksgiving – In gratitude for prayers answered
3. Preparation – Leading up to a feast or sacrament
4. Mourning – Prayed after someone’s death (like a novena for the dead)

Examples of Popular Novenas

• Divine Mercy Novena (leading up to Divine Mercy Sunday)
• Novena to St. Jude (for hopeless cases)
• Novena to the Sacred Heart of Jesus
• Christmas Novena (before December 25)
• Novena to Our Lady of Perpetual Help

How It’s Done

Each day usually includes:

• A short reflection or reading
• A specific prayer or set of prayers
• Often ends with a petition or personal intention

You can pray novenas privately, with family, or in a church group. Some are printed in booklets, emailed daily, or found online.