Novena to the Holy Spirit with Reflections from Pope Francis
Before Jesus ascended into heaven, he commanded his apostles to “wait for the promise of the Father” in Jerusalem. Nine days later the apostles celebrated the Jewish feast of Pentecost, and God fulfilled his promise by sending the Holy Spirit. This was the first “novena.”
A novena is a traditional prayer devotion in which prayers are said for nine consecutive days. By praying a novena to the Holy Spirit, we can imitate the example of Mary and the apostles when they prayed and waited for the Holy Spirit. We can prepare our hearts for the coming of the Holy Spirit in a new way.
There are many options online, and you can adapt these to fit the needs of your own family. Traditionally, the Novena to the Holy Spirit starts nine days before Pentecost, but you can start and pray it anytime you feel appropriate. You may also wish to include other prayers and songs/hymns about the Holy Spirit. You may wish to conclude each day by praying the Our Father and Hail Mary, and then seven Glory be to the Father prayers.
Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name; thy kingdom come; thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread; and forgive us our trespasses as we forgive those who trespass against us; and lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. Amen.
Hail Mary, full of grace, the Lord is with you. Blessed are you among women, and blessed is the fruit of your womb, Jesus. Holy Mary, Mother of God, pray for us sinners, now and at the hour of our death. Amen.
Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit. As it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, world without end. Amen. Come, Holy Spirit, fill the hearts of your faithful. And kindle in them the fire of your love. Send forth your Spirit and they shall be created. And you will renew the face of the earth. Amen
Follow this link to the Novena to the Holy Spirit