What Is a Novena? The Power and History of Nine Days of Prayer in Catholic Tradition

About This Prayer

What is a novena, and why do Catholics pray them for nine days? This video explains the Scriptural origin of novenas in the Upper Room before Pentecost, how they developed in Catholic tradition, and the different forms they take—from Our Lord and Our Lady to saints and angels. On this channel, you’ll find novenas and devotions including: • Novena to the Sacred Heart • Miraculous Medal Novena • Holy Cloak of Saint Joseph Novena • St. Jude for Financial Help • Thirty-Day Prayer to St. Joseph • Chaplets and devotions such as the Chaplet of St. Michael, the Holy Face, the Holy Wounds, and more Novenas are a powerful way to grow in perseverance and trust, placing our needs before God with the help of the saints. Follow for more Catholic teaching, prayers, novenas, and devotions.