Our Lady of Perpetual Help Novena

A novena is a traditional form of Catholic prayer that is said consistently over nine consecutive days or weeks, typically in petition for a specific request or intention. “Our Lady of Perpetual Help Novena” is a particular novena dedicated to the Blessed Virgin Mary under the title of “Our Lady of Perpetual Help.”

The title “Our Lady of Perpetual Help” refers to a Byzantine icon dating from the 13th-15th century, depicting the Virgin Mary comforting the Christ Child, who is disturbed by a vision of the instruments of his Crucifixion. The image is known for the tenderness and compassion it portrays, and the Virgin Mary under this title is often invoked for help in times of need or distress.

The novena consists of specific prayers to Our Lady of Perpetual Help, asking for her intercession. While the prayers can vary, they usually include reciting the Hail Mary, the Our Father, and the Glory Be, along with specific prayers to Our Lady of Perpetual Help herself. Participants often pray for personal intentions or the intentions of others.

The novena to Our Lady of Perpetual Help is a significant devotion in many Catholic communities. For example, the Redemptorists, a religious congregation in the Catholic Church, have a strong devotion to Our Lady of Perpetual Help and often lead novenas in her honor.

Just like any other devotional practice in the Catholic Church, the novena to Our Lady of Perpetual Help is not a magical ritual or a guaranteed way to get what one wants. Instead, it is a way of deepening one’s faith, building perseverance in prayer, seeking spiritual comfort and support, and growing closer to God through devotion to the Virgin Mary.