St Francis Novena

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The St. Francis Novena is a nine-day Catholic devotion honoring St. Francis of Assisi, the beloved saint known for his humility, simplicity, and love of creation. This novena asks for his intercession in growing closer to Christ through peace, detachment from worldly concerns, and joyful service. It is often prayed leading up to October 4th, the Feast of St. Francis, but may also be prayed any time Catholics seek his help in following Christ more faithfully. Through these prayers, the faithful remember his radical commitment to Gospel living and his example of holiness that continues to inspire people worldwide.

When to Pray

The St. Francis Novena is traditionally prayed from September 25th to October 3rd, leading up to the Feast of St. Francis of Assisi on October 4th. It may also be prayed at any time during the year when seeking his intercession for peace, for the care of creation, or for help in living simply and faithfully according to the Gospel.

Day 1

Heavenly Father, through the intercession of St. Francis, grant me the grace to love You above all things. Help me to begin this novena with a heart open to peace, humility, and joy. May I imitate St. Francis in seeking only Your will. Amen.

Day 2

Lord Jesus, You called St. Francis to rebuild Your Church. Through his prayers, renew my faith and strengthen Your Church in our time. May I work with love to build unity and spread the Gospel. Amen.

Day 3

Holy Spirit, inspire in me the simplicity and purity of St. Francis. Free me from attachment to sin and worldly pride. May my life reflect the joy of the Gospel. Amen.

Day 4

God of creation, You gave St. Francis a deep love for all living things. Teach me to honor and protect Your creation, respecting the dignity of every creature. Through his intercession, may I grow in gratitude for the world around me. Amen.

Day 5

Lord, grant me the courage of St. Francis, who embraced poverty for love of You. Help me to detach from selfish desires and find freedom in living simply and faithfully. Amen.

Day 6

Father, St. Francis bore the wounds of Christ in his body. Through his intercession, grant me strength to carry my own crosses with patience and love, uniting my sufferings with Yours. Amen.

Day 7

God of mercy, through the prayers of St. Francis, help me to be an instrument of Your peace. Where there is hatred, let me sow love; where there is doubt, faith; where there is despair, hope. Amen.

Day 8

Lord Jesus, St. Francis longed for heaven and trusted fully in Your providence. Teach me to long for holiness and eternal life with You. May I live each day with hope and trust in Your promises. Amen.

Day 9

Almighty God, as I complete this novena, I thank You for the gift of St. Francis. Through his intercession, hear my petitions and grant me the grace to follow Christ with joy and humility. May I always walk in Your peace. Amen.