What is a novena?

A novena is a nine day period of private or public prayer in the Catholic Church to obtain special graces, to implore special favors, or make special petitions. Novenas are often made by groups or individuals to obtain miracles, to implore divine assistance, or to prepare spiritually for a feast day or event.

The practice of novenas is based in early Christianity, when after Christ’s Ascension, the Apostles prayed together for nine days while awaiting the descent of the Holy Spirit at Pentecost. This is seen as the first Christian novena. Novenas to saints also have early origins, with a novena held for St. Martin of Tours in the 6th century. By the 11th century novenas were formally incorporated into public worship.

Novenas bring heightened spiritual benefits through the sustained and focused nature of praying for a special intention over nine days. The repeated prayers bring devotion and connection to God or the saint being invoked. They allow time for inward reflection while seeking intercession. And the period of anticipation makes the feast day or answered prayer more meaningful.

Popular novenas in the Catholic tradition include those to Our Lady of Perpetual Help, St. Joseph leading up to his feast day, St. Jude when one is facing desperate circumstances, St. Peregrine for cancer patients, and the Immaculate Conception leading up to the feast day. Novenas remind us of the power of prayer and intercession. Through them we grow in faith and feel God’s loving presence.

Source: The Catholic Crusade Website