Our Lady of Perpetual Help Novena
This novena honors the miraculous icon of Our Lady of Perpetual Help, one of the most popular Marian devotions in the Catholic Church.
Our Lady of Perpetual Help Novena - Day 1
Our Lady of Perpetual Help Novena - Day 1
Opening Prayer
In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.
O Mother of Perpetual Help, you are the beloved Mother of Jesus and our Mother forever. We come before your miraculous icon with hearts full of trust, knowing that you never refuse those who seek your aid.
The Miraculous Icon
"Behold, your mother." — John 19:27
The icon of Our Lady of Perpetual Help is one of the most venerated images of the Blessed Virgin in the world. Painted in the Byzantine style, it depicts Mary holding the Child Jesus close to her heart while two angels present the instruments of the Passion. The Child, startled by the vision of His future suffering, clings to His Mother's hand, and one of His sandals hangs loosely from His foot.
This ancient icon tells the whole story of our salvation in a single image. Mary is the Mother who holds the Savior, and the Savior clings to His Mother even as He faces the Cross. The icon teaches us that in every suffering, in every fear, we too can cling to Mary, and she will hold us fast. Her help is perpetual -- never ending, never failing, always available.
Prayer
O Mother of Perpetual Help, your miraculous icon has inspired devotion for centuries. As we gaze upon it, we see your tender love for Jesus and for us. Help us to cling to you in times of fear and suffering, just as the Child Jesus clings to your hand. Grant us the grace we seek (mention your intention), and never let go of us, your children.
The Memorare
Remember, O most gracious Virgin Mary, that never was it known that anyone who fled to your protection, implored your help, or sought your intercession was left unaided. Inspired with this confidence, I fly to you, O Virgin of virgins, my Mother. To you I come, before you I stand, sinful and sorrowful. O Mother of the Word Incarnate, despise not my petitions, but in your mercy hear and answer me. Amen.
Closing Prayer
O Mother of Perpetual Help, grant that I may ever invoke your most powerful name, which is the safeguard of the living and the salvation of the dying. O purest Mary, let your name henceforth be ever on my lips. Delay not, O blessed Lady, to help me whenever I call on you. Through Christ our Lord. Amen.
Our Mother of Perpetual Help, pray for us.