Novena for a Happy and Faithful Marriage

A new Novena based on Saint Josemaria's writings is available in pdf and printed format. Intended for both married and engaged couples, it presents the sacrament of marriage as a "true path to holiness, an image of Christ's spousal love for his Church."

Download Novena for a Happy and Faithful Marriage in pdf format

Printed copies can be ordered from:

St. Josemaria Institute
4340 Cross Street, Suite 1
Downers Grove, IL 60515
(630) 541-9742
www.stjosemaria.org

Saint Josemaria Escriva (1902-1975), priest and founder of Opus Dei, believed that “those who are called to the married state will, with the grace of God, find within their state everything they need to be holy, to identify themselves each day more with Jesus Christ, and to lead those with whom they live to God."

The Novena for a Happy and Faithful Marriage is inspired by Saint Josemaria's desire to help all married couples, and those preparing for marriage, to find meaning and encouragement in their vocation through a commitment to daily prayer and friendship with God, especially when facing inevitable difficulties and times of trial.

The novena reflections are all taken from the homily by Saint Josemaria Escriva, “Marriage: A Christian Vocation," published in the book Christ is Passing By (Scepter Publishers, 1974).

What is a novena?

A novena is a personal commitment to pray for nine consecutive days to ask God for answers to a specific request, struggle, or intention. The novena prayer is repeated each day and can be accompanied by reading and reflection. Novenas can be prayed throughout the year and are often prayed in preparation for a feast day of the Church.

Who should pray the Novena for a Happy and Faithful Marriage?

The Novena for a Happy and Faithful Marriage is ideal for those who are thinking about marriage as a vocation, for engaged couples, and for married couples.

How to pray the Novena for a Happy and Faithful Marriage:

--Choose a date and time (e.g. end of day, after dinner) to start the novena

--Read the reflection of the day slowly in front of a crucifix or image of the Holy Family

--Meditate on the reading and ask God to let you see what you need to understand

--Pray one of the two prayers indicated for the day (for the married or engaged)

--End with the Prayer for the Family and ask God for your specific request(s)