The Christmas Novena is a beloved Catholic tradition that helps us prepare our hearts and minds for the birth of Jesus Christ. Beginning nine days before Christmas (December 16–24), this novena is a journey of prayer, reflection, and spiritual renewal. It invites us to reflect on the mystery of the Incarnation—God becoming man to dwell among us—and to embrace the hope, peace, and joy that Christ brings to the world.
The number nine in this novena symbolizes the nine months of Mary’s pregnancy, reminding us of her “yes” to God and her role as the Mother of the Savior. Through the Christmas Novena, we unite ourselves with Mary and Joseph, preparing to welcome the Christ Child into our hearts and homes.
As we recite the prayers of the Christmas Novena, we are called to reflect on the virtues of humility, love, and surrender that Christ modeled. Let these prayers guide you through the final days of Advent, helping you prepare for the great celebration of Christmas with joy and faith.
Daily Christmas Novena Prayer
Opening Prayer (Recited Daily)
O Lord Jesus,
As we prepare for Your birth,
We reflect on the mystery of Your coming into the world.
You chose to dwell among us in humility and love,
And You call us to open our hearts to Your presence.
During this novena, fill us with the grace to love as You love,
To hope as You bring hope,
And to trust in the promise of Your salvation.
Amen.
Day 1: The Annunciation (December 16)
Reflection:
On this first day, reflect on Mary’s “yes” to God at the Annunciation. Her humility and faith opened the way for the Savior of the world. Ask for the grace to respond generously to God’s will in your own life.
Prayer:
Heavenly Father,
As we begin this novena, we remember Mary’s fiat,
Her total surrender to Your plan.
Help us to say “yes” to You, even in uncertainty,
And to trust in Your divine providence.
Amen.
“Behold, I am the handmaid of the Lord; let it be to me according to your word.” (Luke 1:38, RSVCE)
Day 2: The Visitation (December 17)
Reflection:
Mary’s visit to Elizabeth reminds us of the joy and support found in sharing our faith. Pray for the gift of community and love in your life.
Prayer:
Lord Jesus,
In Mary’s visit to Elizabeth,
We see the joy of sharing Your love with others.
Help us to be a source of encouragement and support
For those around us this Advent season.
Amen.
“And blessed is she who believed that there would be a fulfillment of what was spoken to her from the Lord.” (Luke 1:45, RSVCE)
Day 3: The Journey to Bethlehem (December 18)
Reflection:
Mary and Joseph journeyed to Bethlehem in obedience to God’s plan. Reflect on their trust in God during difficult circumstances, and ask for a deeper faith.
Prayer:
O God,
As Mary and Joseph journeyed to Bethlehem in trust,
Grant us the grace to follow Your path with courage.
Help us to see that even in struggles,
You are guiding us toward Your promises.
Amen.
“The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want.” (Psalm 23:1, RSVCE)
Day 4: The Birth of Jesus Foretold (December 19)
Reflection:
The prophets foretold the coming of the Messiah. Reflect on the hope of Christ’s birth and its fulfillment in your life.
Prayer:
Lord,
In Your coming, You fulfill every promise.
Fill us with hope as we await Your birth,
And help us to trust in Your perfect timing.
Amen.
“For to us a child is born, to us a son is given.” (Isaiah 9:6, RSVCE)
Day 5: The Angels Announce the Good News (December 20)
Reflection:
The angels brought the good news of Jesus’ birth to the shepherds. Reflect on how you can share the joy of the Gospel with others.
Prayer:
O Jesus,
As the angels proclaimed Your birth with joy,
Let us be messengers of Your love and peace.
May our words and actions reflect Your truth.
Amen.
“Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace among men with whom he is pleased!” (Luke 2:14, RSVCE)
Day 6: The Shepherds Visit Jesus (December 21)
Reflection:
The humble shepherds remind us that Christ welcomes all to His manger. Pray for the grace to approach Jesus with simplicity and humility.
Prayer:
Dear Jesus,
Like the shepherds, let us come to You with open hearts,
Bringing our hopes, fears, and joys to Your feet.
Help us to see You in the simple and the ordinary.
Amen.
“They went with haste and found Mary and Joseph, and the babe lying in a manger.” (Luke 2:16, RSVCE)
Day 7: The Gifts of the Magi (December 22)
Reflection:
The Magi brought gifts to honor Jesus. Reflect on how you can give your time, talents, and love to Christ.
Prayer:
Lord Jesus,
Help us to offer the best of ourselves to You,
As the Magi offered their gifts at Your birth.
May our lives be a reflection of gratitude and love.
Amen.
“And going into the house they saw the child with Mary his mother, and they fell down and worshiped him.” (Matthew 2:11, RSVCE)
Day 8: Mary Ponders All These Things (December 23)
Reflection:
Mary treasured and pondered the mysteries of Christ’s birth in her heart. Pray for a heart open to God’s mysteries in your own life.
Prayer:
Holy Mary,
Teach us to ponder the mysteries of Christ in our hearts,
And to find peace in God’s plan for our lives.
May we draw closer to Your Son in love and faith.
Amen.
“But Mary kept all these things, pondering them in her heart.” (Luke 2:19, RSVCE)
Day 9: The Birth of Jesus (December 24)
Reflection:
Rejoice in the birth of our Savior, Jesus Christ, and celebrate the fulfillment of God’s promises.
Prayer:
O Holy Child of Bethlehem,
You are the Light of the World and the Prince of Peace.
Fill our hearts with joy as we celebrate Your birth.
May we always live in the light of Your love.
Amen.
“For today in the city of David there has been born for you a Savior, who is Christ the Lord.” (Luke 2:11, RSVCE)
Closing Prayer for the Christmas Novena
Loving Father,
Thank You for the gift of Your Son, Jesus Christ.
As we celebrate His birth, may our lives reflect His love and humility.
Grant us peace, joy, and hope this Christmas,
And strengthen our faith as we journey with You.
Amen.
Scriptures for the Christmas Novena
- Isaiah 9:6: “For to us a child is born, to us a son is given.”
- Luke 2:11: “For today in the city of David there has been born for you a Savior, who is Christ the Lord.”
- Matthew 2:11: “They fell down and worshiped him, offering gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh.”
Prayer Prompt Faith Activity
Create a quiet prayer space with an Advent wreath or nativity scene. Light a candle as you pray the novena each day, reflecting on the journey to Bethlehem. Share the novena with friends and family, inviting them to join you in this spiritual preparation for Christmas.