Written by Benoît Santos - Updated on Oct 27, 2024
Catholic spirituality offers a rich variety of devotional practices, among which novenas occupy a special place. Novenas are periods of intense prayer that take place over nine consecutive days, usually dedicated to a particular intention.
In this article, we'll explore the basics of novenas , providing an accessible guide for beginners who want to deepen their spiritual life.
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What is a Novena?
Novenas originate from the Latin "novem," meaning nine. They consist of a series of prayers recited over nine consecutive days for a specific intention. These prayers can vary depending on the particular devotion of the novena, but they usually include traditional prayers such as the Our Father, Hail Mary , and Glory Be.
Intentions of the Novenas
Novenas can be dedicated to a variety of intentions. Some choose to follow them for physical or spiritual healing , overcoming personal difficulties, spiritual warfare, purification, or a special favor.
It is advisable not to multiply intentions, as this can lead to confusion.
We suggest you have two intentions.
- A spiritual intention: because it allows you to grow spiritually and get closer to God . Here you can ask for goods from above such as faith, humility, abandonment to God, detachment, the conversion of a loved one.
- An intention for temporary goods: because this allows you to have what is necessary to live the pilgrimage on Earth well. You can ask for favors such as a job, health, marriage, healthy finances.
How to choose your novena?
The choice of novena is usually linked to intentions. Certain saints and devotions are traditionally associated with specific intentions.
For example: the novena to Saint Rita is generally associated with desperate cases, the novena to Saint Michael the Archangel is associated with protection and spiritual combat, the novena to the Immaculate Conception , with purity and faith, the novena to Saint Joseph for obtaining a job.
Also, if you have a particular devotion to a saint, consider choosing a novena related to that saint. This could be a patron saint, a saint whose life you admire, or a saint who has a special connection to your situation.
The saints are only waiting for one thing, that we resort to their intercession and they will not fail to give us joy.
How to start a Novena
For beginners, starting a novena may seem intimidating, but it is actually a simple and accessible practice.
Having made your choice of novena, find the specific prayers associated with it. There are many online resources and dedicated books that can guide you through this process.
Ideally, do not go into novenas with long prayers for a start because it can seem heavy. The most important thing during a novena is not the length of the prayer , but rather the constancy and regularity.
Set aside a daily time for prayer. Create a space for reflection and meditation , eliminating potential distractions.
When to start a novena
The church offers a calendar of the most well-known novenas. In this calendar, novenas are generally said as a prelude to a solemnity or the feast of a saint. Here are some examples:
- From November 30 to December 8: Novena to the Immaculate Conception
- From March 11 to 19: Novena to Saint Joseph
- From June 23 to July 1: Novena to the Precious Blood
- From September 21 to 29: Novena to Saint Michael the Archangel and the 9 choirs of angels
- From September 23 to October 1: Novena to Saint Therese of the Child Jesus
However, you can start a novena at any time according to your specific need. In order not to get lost during the thread of the days, please note the day of the beginning of your novena, in a notebook. Thus, you can always refer if at any time, you are confused.
The Spiritual Benefits of Novenas
Beyond the specific requests made during a novena, this practice offers significant spiritual benefits . It promotes spiritual discipline, perseverance in prayer, and a deepening of the personal relationship with God.
Novenas are also an opportunity to cultivate patience, trust and gratitude, recognizing that all prayers are heard, even if the answers may differ from our expectations.
Novenas are a valuable way to deepen your spiritual life and cultivate a closer relationship with God . By following this beginner’s guide, you can explore this grace-rich devotional practice. So what do you hear, start a novena today.
Randolph Gamo is a poor sinner who trusts in God's mercy. He believes in the power of prayer . He is a member of the Heart of Love of Jesus association.
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