What Is a Novena?
A novena is a traditional Catholic prayer prayed for nine consecutive days, asking God for a special grace through the intercession of a saint.
The word novena comes from the Latin word for nine, reflecting the nine days of prayer that prepare the heart for God’s grace.
Many Catholics turn to novenas during times when they need guidance, healing, or help in situations that seem impossible.
Why Pray a Novena to Saint Rita?
Saint Rita of Cascia
Saint Rita is known throughout the world as the patron saint of impossible causes.
Her life was marked by suffering, patience, forgiveness, and deep trust in God. Because she endured many trials in her own life, many believers ask for her intercession when facing:
• difficult marriages
• family struggles
• seemingly hopeless situations
• deep personal suffering
Novena Prayer to Saint Rita
Pray this prayer once each day for nine days.
O Holy Patroness of those in need,
Saint Rita, whose pleadings before God are almost irresistible,
who for your lavishness in granting favors
has been called the Advocate of the Hopeless and even of the Impossible,
Saint Rita, so humble, so pure, so mortified,
so patient and compassionate toward the suffering,
obtain for me from the Heart of Jesus
the grace I ask for in this novena.
(Mention your intention.)
Saint Rita, pray for us and help us trust in God’s mercy,
even when our trials seem beyond hope.
Through Christ our Lord.
Amen.
A Prayer of Trust
Saint Rita reminds us that no situation is beyond God’s grace.
Even when circumstances appear impossible, prayer invites God to work in ways we may not yet understand.
