Novenas
Catholics have been praying novenas for thousands of years. The origins of this traditional devotion go all the way back to the time of the apostles.
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At his Ascension, Jesus instructed the apostles to pray in preparation for Pentecost. Nine days later, he sent the Holy Spirit as tongues of fire to strengthen them for the ministry that would spread the Good News throughout the world.
Early Christians noticed this pattern of prayer, and thus novenas follow this nine-day example.
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This form of devotional praying, consisting of private or public prayers repeated for nine successive days. Novenas are often prayed in preparation for a feast day or for a specific intention. Derived from devotional prayer books, novena prayers are dedicated to a specific angel, saint, the Blessed Virgin Mary, or one of the persons of the Holy Trinity.
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