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WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 95741 [post_author] => 24 [post_date] => 2025-09-26 16:10:34 [post_date_gmt] => 2025-09-26 16:10:34 [post_content] => <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">It’s the most influential book in history.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">And God willing, there will be a few more people who read it this year.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Hallow is thrilled to join forces with other leading Christian organizations as part of Global Bible Month, powered by YouVersion, happening this November.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">People are searching for truth and they're turning to it where it has always lived: God's Word. That's why we see Bible sales surging, Bible podcasts topping the charts and Bible apps growing in popuarlity.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">God’s Word can change hearts and change the world. Join us in committing to spending time with Scripture for 30 days in November.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Go to <a href="http://globalbiblemonth.com">GlobalBibleMonth.com</a> to sign up.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"className":""} --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-more-bible-prayer-resources">More Bible Prayer Resources</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:list {"className":""} --> <ul class="wp-block-list"><!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="https://hallow.com/blog/bible-study-guide-for-beginners/">Bible Study Guide</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="https://hallow.com/blog/parables-of-jesus/">A Guide to Parables</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="https://hallow.com/blog/how-to-pray-lectio-divina/">How to Pray with Lectio Divina</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --></ul> <!-- /wp:list --> [post_title] => Join the 30-Day Bible Challenge for Global Bible Month [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => closed [ping_status] => closed [post_password] => [post_name] => global-bible-month [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2025-09-26 16:21:18 [post_modified_gmt] => 2025-09-26 16:21:18 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://hallow.com/?p=95741 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw )

WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 93181 [post_author] => 32 [post_date] => 2025-09-10 16:45:34 [post_date_gmt] => 2025-09-10 16:45:34 [post_content] => <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class=""></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">The Book of Esther offers one of the most compelling stories of courage, faith, and God's providence in Scripture. While Protestant Bibles don't mention God in the story, <a href="https://www.ncregister.com/blog/stealing-the-show-of-esther-veggie-tales-and-spotting-the-divine">the Catholic Bible</a> has God as central to the Book of Esther. </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Pope Benedict XVI <a href="https://www.vatican.va/content/benedict-xvi/en/audiences/2011/documents/hf_ben-xvi_aud_20110803.html">described</a> the book as a story where a "Jewish Queen saves her people from extermination with her faith and prayer."</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">But Esther was an unlikely queen. Her story is one of bravery and strength, as well as one of transformation--how God can transform tragedy into triumph.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Learn more about Esther and how she can inspire our own prayer lives thousands of years later.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class=""></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:buttons {"layout":{"type":"flex","justifyContent":"center"}} --> <div class="wp-block-buttons"><!-- wp:button --> <div class="wp-block-button"><a class="wp-block-button__link wp-element-button" href="https://hallow.app.link/8AXFmfUjdWb">Pray With Saints on Hallow</a></div> <!-- /wp:button --></div> <!-- /wp:buttons --> <!-- wp:heading {"className":""} --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-esther-s-story">Esther's Story</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">According to the <a href="https://bible.usccb.org/bible/esther/0">USCCB</a>, the Book of Esther was likely written in the second or third century B.C., while other schools suggest the book is even folder, dating back to the fifth century B.C.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Esther, a Jewish orphan raised by her cousin Mordecai, unexpectedly becomes queen of Persia after King Ahasuerus removes Queen Vashti. When the king's advisor, Haman, plots to destroy all Jews in the kingdom, Esther faces a seemingly impossible choice: remain silent and safe in the palace, or risk her life by approaching the king without being summoned—an offense punishable by death.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Mordecai's famous words still resonate: "Who knows—perhaps it was for a time like this that you became queen?" (Esther 4:14). This pivotal moment of the book invites us to consider how God has positioned us in our own lives to serve His purposes, even when we may not immediately recognize it.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Before approaching the king, Esther calls for a three-day fast, demonstrating her understanding that spiritual preparation must precede courageous action. Her words, "If I perish, I perish," reveal a soul who has found peace in surrender to God's will.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"className":""} --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-mary-and-esther">Mary and Esther</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Esther, in the Old Testament, intercedes for her people.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Mary, our Mother, intercedes for us now and always.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Pope Benedict XVI recognized this connection in a July 2006 homily, <a href="https://www.vatican.va/content/benedict-xvi/en/homilies/2006/documents/hf_ben-xvi_hom_20060709_valencia.html">saying</a>, "The Church at prayer has seen in this humble queen interceding with all her heart for her suffering people, a prefigurement of Mary, whom her Son has given to us all as our Mother; a prefigurement of the Mother who protects by her love God’s family on its earthly pilgrimage."</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">In this way, getting to know Esther, and her love for her people, can bring us closer to Mary, who points us toward her Son, Jesus.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">"Mary is the image and model of all mothers, of their great mission to be guardians of life, of their mission to be teachers of the art of living and of the art of loving," said Pope Benedict XVI.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:buttons {"layout":{"type":"flex","justifyContent":"center"}} --> <div class="wp-block-buttons"><!-- wp:button --> <div class="wp-block-button"><a class="wp-block-button__link wp-element-button" href="https://hallow.app.link/8AXFmfUjdWb">Try Hallow for Free</a></div> <!-- /wp:button --></div> <!-- /wp:buttons --> <!-- wp:heading {"className":""} --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-praying-with-esther-s-example">Praying with Esther's Example</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Esther's story can inspire our prayer lives in many ways:</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:list {"className":""} --> <ul class="wp-block-list"><!-- wp:list-item --> <li><strong>Praying for Discernment:</strong> Like Esther discerning when and how to approach the king, we can discern God's path for us through daily prayer. Consider doing a <a href="https://hallow.com/blog/how-to-pray-the-examen/">daily examen</a> to make time to listen to God's voice guiding you.</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><strong>Fasting and Prayer:</strong> Esther's does a three-day fast. During Lent and other times, we also fast. Learn more about the connection between <a href="https://hallow.com/blog/prayers-for-fasting/">fasting and prayer</a>.</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><strong>Praying for Courage:</strong> When facing situations that require bravery, spend time in <a href="/blog/morning-prayer/">morning prayer</a> asking for the same courage in your day, and the challenges you face, as Esther displayed when she said, "If I perish, I perish."</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><strong>Litany of Trust:</strong> Strengthen your trust in God and His plan by praying the <a href="https://hallow.com/blog/how-to-pray-the-litany-of-trust/">Litany of Trust</a>.</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --></ul> <!-- /wp:list --> <!-- wp:heading {"className":""} --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-quotes-about-esther">Quotes about Esther</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:list {"className":""} --> <ul class="wp-block-list"><!-- wp:list-item --> <li>"I keep thinking of Queen Esther who was taken away from her people precisely because God wanted her to plead with the king on behalf of her nation. I am a very poor and powerless little Esther, but the King who has chosen me is infinitely great and merciful. This is great comfort." - <a href="https://www.vatican.va/news_services/liturgy/saints/ns_lit_doc_19981011_edith_stein_en.html">Edith Stein</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>"Esther didn’t plan to be queen, but God positioned her to save a nation. Your purpose is bigger than your platform." - <a href="https://x.com/DrJRobinson23/status/1922843060024611308">Dr. Jason Robinson</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>"Esther is also a story to be enjoyed.&nbsp;&nbsp;The characters and their struggles can teach us that God's mysterious hand is at work for those who love him even in life-threatening circumstances.' - <a href="https://www.catholicnewsagency.com/resource/56245/esther">Mark Giszczak</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>"She fled to the Lord in her anxiety. That is a lesson for me. Her entire eloquent prayer moves me greatly. She glorifies God, she asks for Him to put words in her mouth, and she shows her complete dependence on God by asking a couple of times for God to help her, 'who am alone and have no helper but thee.'" - <a href="https://catholicstand.com/the-courage-of-queen-esther/">Janet Meyer</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --></ul> <!-- /wp:list --> <!-- wp:heading {"className":""} --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-prayer-of-esther">Prayer of Esther</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Esther's prayer is simple and is as relevant for our lives as it was in the 2nd or 3rd century B.C.:</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:quote {"className":""} --> <blockquote class="wp-block-quote"><!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">"My Lord, you alone are our King. Help me, who am alone and have no help but you."</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --></blockquote> <!-- /wp:quote --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Esther's story is a reminder that God's answer to our prayers might (and probably will!) look different than what we expected for had quietly hoped for.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Fr. Mark DeSutter, pastor at Sacred Heart Catholic Church, <a href="https://www.sacredheartmoline.org/fathers-homilies/about-us/pastors-blog/2021/02/25/first-thursday-of-ordinary-time-(esther-12-14-16,-23-25)-%E2%80%9Ca-god-of-surprises%E2%80%9D">captures this reality perfectly</a>.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">"Jesus says knock and the door will be open to you. Esther certainly experienced that, but we notice, once again, that her prayer was answered in a most unusual way," he said. "One thing is important when we are petitioning God for something, we must not be too specific about what we ask for. The Spirit needs room to maneuver and we need to recognize that prayers are often answered in ways we never thought of."</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:buttons {"layout":{"type":"flex","justifyContent":"center"}} --> <div class="wp-block-buttons"><!-- wp:button --> <div class="wp-block-button"><a class="wp-block-button__link wp-element-button" href="https://hallow.app.link/8AXFmfUjdWb">Try Hallow for Free</a></div> <!-- /wp:button --></div> <!-- /wp:buttons --> <!-- wp:heading {"className":""} --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-more-prayer-resources">More Prayer Resources</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:list {"className":""} --> <ul class="wp-block-list"><!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="https://hallow.com/blog/contemplative-prayer-imaginative-prayer/">Imaginative/Contemplative Prayer</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="https://hallow.com/blog/bible-study-guide-for-beginners/">Bible Study Guide</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="https://hallow.com/saints/monica/">St. Monica Prayers</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --></ul> <!-- /wp:list --> [post_title] => Queen Esther: Biblical Story, Prayers and More [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => closed [ping_status] => closed [post_password] => [post_name] => queen-esther-prayers-story [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2025-09-10 16:45:47 [post_modified_gmt] => 2025-09-10 16:45:47 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://hallow.com/?p=93181 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw )

WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 93180 [post_author] => 32 [post_date] => 2025-09-08 22:43:18 [post_date_gmt] => 2025-09-08 22:43:18 [post_content] => <!-- wp:heading {"className":""} --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-finding-inspiration-in-the-prayer-life-of-king-david">Finding Inspiration in the Prayer Life of King David</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">The story of King David offers a powerful model for our own prayer lives. From shepherd boy to king, from sinner to saint, David's journey through triumph and failure reveals a man who maintained a passionate relationship with God through it all. His example can transform how we approach prayer today.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">David wasn't just a great king—he was a man after God's own heart. His psalms reveal someone who poured out everything to God: joy, anger, fear, gratitude, and repentance. This authenticity in prayer is something we can all learn from as we seek to deepen our own relationship with the Lord.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:buttons {"layout":{"type":"flex","justifyContent":"center"}} --> <div class="wp-block-buttons"><!-- wp:button --> <div class="wp-block-button"><a class="wp-block-button__link wp-element-button" href="https://hallow.app.link/8AXFmfUjdWb">Try Hallow for Free</a></div> <!-- /wp:button --></div> <!-- /wp:buttons --> <!-- wp:heading {"className":""} --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">David's Journey of Faith</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Before he was King David, he was simply a shepherd boy—the youngest of his brothers, overlooked by many but seen by God. His early life teaches us that God often works through the unexpected, calling us to greatness even when others might dismiss us.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">David's defeat of Goliath reminds us that with faith, we can face our own giants. When confronting challenges, we can turn to <a href="/blog/morning-prayer/">morning prayer</a> to find the same courage David displayed, trusting not in our own strength but in God's power working through us.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Even as king, David maintained his prayer life. The Psalms attributed to him show a man who regularly brought everything to God—his victories, fears, sins, and hopes. This consistent dialogue with God is something we can emulate in our own lives, creating space for God in both our joys and struggles.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"className":""} --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-king-david-and-the-wisdom-of-the-youth">King David and the Wisdom of the Youth</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">David's story reminds us of the importance of trusting God with childlike dependence, as he did when facing Goliath in battle with only a slingshot.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">In a 2022 address, Pope Francis reminded us of the wisdom of young people that we see throughout the Bible.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">"According to Scripture, young people are the bearers of a spirit of knowledge and intelligence," <a href="https://www.vatican.va/content/francesco/en/speeches/2022/september/documents/20220924-visita-assisi.html">he said</a>. "It was the young David who humbled the arrogance of the giant Goliath."</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">David also reminds us of the power of the Psalms.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:buttons {"layout":{"type":"flex","justifyContent":"center"}} --> <div class="wp-block-buttons"><!-- wp:button --> <div class="wp-block-button"><a class="wp-block-button__link wp-element-button" href="https://hallow.app.link/8AXFmfUjdWb">Try Hallow for Free</a></div> <!-- /wp:button --></div> <!-- /wp:buttons --> <!-- wp:heading {"className":""} --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Praying with the Psalms of David</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">David is deeply connected with the Book of Psalms (also known as the Psalter), which, according to Joseph Onessaa and Laurie Watson Manhardt's book "<a href="https://stpaulcenter.com/store/come-and-see-david-and-the-psalms">Come and See: David and the Psalms</a>", has been called the "Prayer Book of the Church."</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">"Every human emotion finds expression in the psalms," they write. </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class=""><a href="https://cruxnow.com/commentary/2023/12/king-davids-spiritual-legacy-rests-in-the-book-of-psalms">According to Fr. Jeffrey F. Kirby</a>, David "sought to codify and formalize the various prayers of God’s people. As he collected them, he also added his own prayers to God, which added to the depth and beauty of the collection. The codification of these prayers has come to be called the Book of Psalms."</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">The Catechism of the Catholic Church teaches that "In the Psalms David, inspired by the Holy Spirit, is the first prophet of Jewish and Christian prayer. The prayer of Christ, the true Messiah and Son of David, will reveal and fullfill the meaning of this prayer."</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Some of the most beautiful <a href="https://hallow.com/blog/how-to-pray-the-psalms/">psalms</a> for personal prayer include:</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:list {"className":""} --> <ul class="wp-block-list"><!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Psalm 23 ("The Lord is my shepherd...")</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Psalm 51 (David's prayer of repentance)</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Psalm 139 (on God's intimate knowledge of us)</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Psalm 63 (thirsting for God)</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --></ul> <!-- /wp:list --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">The Psalms form the foundation for the <a href="https://hallow.com/blog/liturgy-of-the-hours/">Liturgy of the Hours</a>, an important prayer tradition in the Church.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"className":""} --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-david-and-praying-in-hard-times">David and Praying in Hard Times</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Perhaps what makes David such a compelling figure is not his perfection, but his humanity. His story includes serious sins—adultery with Bathsheba and the arranged death of her husband, Uriah. Yet when confronted by the prophet Nathan, David's response is immediate repentance.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Psalm 51, written after this episode, offers one of the most profound prayers of contrition in Scripture: "A clean heart create for me, God; renew within me a steadfast spirit." (Psalm 51:10)</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">It's <a href="https://catholicstand.com/sin-and-the-gift-of-grace-a-reflection-on-psalm-51/">been called</a> "one of the most emotionally charged psalms ever written."</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">David's story reminds us that prayer isn't just for when we feel holy—it's especially important in moments of failure. Like David, we can bring our brokenness to God through prayers like the <a href="/blog/how-to-pray-divine-mercy-chaplet/">Divine Mercy Chaplet</a>, trusting in His forgiveness.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"className":""} --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-praying-with-king-david-saints-in-7-days">Praying with King David: Saints in 7 Days</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">We're thrilled to invite you to join us in praying Saints in 7 Days, beginning with a week dedicated to David.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Saints in 7 Days is one of our most popular content series and we're excited to launch it again this year.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Starting September 15, join Michael Iskander—who portrays David in the #1 hit series, House of David—as he leads us through the life of the greatest King of Israel.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:buttons {"layout":{"type":"flex","justifyContent":"center"}} --> <div class="wp-block-buttons"><!-- wp:button --> <div class="wp-block-button"><a class="wp-block-button__link wp-element-button" href="https://hallow.app.link/8AXFmfUjdWb">Try Hallow for Free</a></div> <!-- /wp:button --></div> <!-- /wp:buttons --> <!-- wp:heading {"className":""} --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-more-prayer-resources">More Prayer Resources</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:list {"className":""} --> <ul class="wp-block-list"><!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="https://hallow.com/blog/how-to-pray-the-gospels/">How to pray with the Gospels</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="https://hallow.com/blog/parables-of-jesus/">The Parables of Jesus</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="https://hallow.com/blog/bible-study-guide-for-beginners/">Bible Study Guide</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="https://hallow.com/saints/monica/">St. Monica Feast Day and Prayers</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --></ul> <!-- /wp:list --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class=""></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> [post_title] => King David: Life, The Psalms and Prayers [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => closed [ping_status] => closed [post_password] => [post_name] => king-david-life-prayers-palms [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2025-09-08 22:45:23 [post_modified_gmt] => 2025-09-08 22:45:23 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://hallow.com/?p=93180 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw )

WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 93601 [post_author] => 32 [post_date] => 2025-09-02 21:58:36 [post_date_gmt] => 2025-09-02 21:58:36 [post_content] => <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Hallow is pleased to announce the winners of its first-ever teen devotional writing contest, which gave students at Hallow partner schools the opportunity to craft prayer content that could be included inside of the Hallow app.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">After receiving hundreds of submissions, all reviewed by Hallow’s content team, we’re excited to announce 12 winning entries:</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:list {"className":""} --> <ul class="wp-block-list"><!-- wp:list-item --> <li>God Calls Abraham - Mikayla Cranick - Mercy High School (Middletown, Conn.)</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Moses - Lucas Shalch - Cathedral Catholic High School (San Diego, Calif.)</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>God Calls Samuel - Chloe Heim - Frassati Catholic High School (Spring, Texas)</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Ruth - Amelia Payan - Frassati Catholic High School (Spring, Texas)</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Elijah - Maeve Gosman - Mercy High School (Middletown, Conn.)</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Esther - Abby Womack - Frassati Catholic High School (Spring, Texas)</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Annunciation - Tarin Larson - Mercy High School (Middletown, Conn.)</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Fishers of Men - Gustin Cornwell - Frassati Catholic High School (Spring, Texas)</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Jesus Calling - Ambrielle Calixte - Bishop Verot High School (Fort Myers, Fla.)</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Mary and Martha - Teresa Benevente - Loretto Academy (El Paso, Texas)</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Woman at the Well - Isabel Harkness - Bishop Verot High School (Fort Myers, Fla.)</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>James and John - Grace Galleta - Mercy High School (Middletown, Conn.)</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --></ul> <!-- /wp:list --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Hallow will work with students from Frassati High School and our professional production staff to record and produce these prayers and make them available inside of the Hallow app in the coming months.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:image {"id":93648,"sizeSlug":"large","linkDestination":"none","className":""} --> <figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://hallow.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/IMG_1984-scaled-e1756849853208-1024x751.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-93648"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption"><em>Students of Mercy High School (Middletown, Conn.) participated in the contest.</em></figcaption></figure> <!-- /wp:image --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Chloe Heim, one of the winners and a student at Frassati, was excited to be recogized–and to contribute to the faith lives of others.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:image {"id":93611,"sizeSlug":"full","linkDestination":"none","align":"right","className":""} --> <figure class="wp-block-image alignright size-full"><img src="https://hallow.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/Teresa-Benavente_Hallow-2-2-e1756849431282.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-93611"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption"><em>Teresa Benevente</em></figcaption></figure> <!-- /wp:image --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">"I’m so grateful that the Hallow team has chosen to use my writing on the app,” she said. “It’s really such an amazing thing that I had the chance to help other people form their devotions.”</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Another winner, Teresa Benevente, a student at Loretto Academy in El Paso, Texas, wrote a reflection on the Gospel passage in Luke’s Gospel where Jesus visits Martha and Mary–and Martha struggles with Mary being present with Him while Martha herself is busy serving and hosting.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">“We fall into that same trap. We tell ourselves we’re too busy to pray, to rest, to just be still. We say God will understand—and He does,” she wrote. “But we forget that He’s not just waiting patiently in the background. He’s inviting us. Longing for us. Wanting to be a part of the real, everyday version of us—not just the polished, ‘churchy’ version.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">The challenge inspired her to share her hope in Christ with others.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">"There's more grace in God than sin in humanity,” she said.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">To learn more about how Hallow partners with schools, visit <a href="https://hallow.com/hallow-for-schools/">Hallow for Schools</a> or email schools@hallow.app.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> [post_title] => Hallow Announces Winners of Teen Devotional Writing Contest [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => closed [ping_status] => closed [post_password] => [post_name] => hallow-announces-winners-of-teen-devotional-writing-contest [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2025-09-02 21:58:46 [post_modified_gmt] => 2025-09-02 21:58:46 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://hallow.com/?p=93601 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw )

WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 92502 [post_author] => 32 [post_date] => 2025-08-21 22:17:39 [post_date_gmt] => 2025-08-21 22:17:39 [post_content] => <!-- wp:list {"className":""} --> <ul class="wp-block-list"><!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="#biblical-roots">Biblical Roots</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="#popes">Papal Declarations</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="#prayers">Prayers</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="#feast-day">Feast Day</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="#resources">Hallow Resources</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --></ul> <!-- /wp:list --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">The Queenship of Mary feast, celebrated on August 22nd, invites us to honor Mary as Queen of Heaven and Earth. This beautiful feast follows eight days after the <a href="https://hallow.com/blog/feast-of-the-assumption/">Assumption</a>, reminding us that after being taken body and soul into Heaven, Mary was crowned by her Son as Queen of all creation.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">When we celebrate Mary's queenship, we honor our spiritual Mother who intercedes for us with tremendous love. Her crown isn't one of earthly authority, but of heavenly service and perfect discipleship.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"className":""} --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="biblical-roots">The Biblical Roots of Mary's Queenship</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">While recognizing Mary as Queen of heaven and earth is steeped in Catholic tradition, it draws its roots from Scripture.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Biblical scholar Scott Hahn, in his nook <a href="https://stpaulcenter.com/store/hail-holy-queen-the-mother-of-god-in-the-word-of-god?srsltid=AfmBOoqemm3zghzdBVDOJsy2SKTeO0v2WZyvrd8RypGccH95pOnoyucF">Hail, Holy Queen: The Mother of God in the Word of God</a>, explores the concept of "Queen Mother".</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">In "Near Eastern" cultures, "The woman ordinarily honored as queen was not the wife of the king, but the mother of the king," a tradition that dates back to the Old Testmant and the term <em><a href="https://stpaulcenter.com/posts/understanding-mary-as-queen-mother">gebirah</a></em>.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Many point to Chapter 12 of the Book of Revelation as vivid imagery of Mary's reign as queen:</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:quote {"className":""} --> <blockquote class="wp-block-quote"><!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">"A great sign appeared in the sky, a woman clothed with the sun, with the moon under her feet, and on her head a crown of twelve stars." (Revelation 12:1).</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --></blockquote> <!-- /wp:quote --> <!-- wp:buttons {"layout":{"type":"flex","justifyContent":"center"}} --> <div class="wp-block-buttons"><!-- wp:button --> <div class="wp-block-button"><a class="wp-block-button__link wp-element-button" href="https://hallow.app.link/xQYahZwh1Vb">Try Hallow for Free</a></div> <!-- /wp:button --></div> <!-- /wp:buttons --> <!-- wp:heading {"className":""} --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="popes">Mary's Queenship and the Popes</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Pope Sixtus IV, in the 1400s papal bull <em>Cum praeexcelsa</em>, referred to Mary as Queen. Pope Benedict XIV's apostolic letter Gloriosae Dominae, written in 1748, <a href="https://www.vatican.va/content/pius-xii/en/encyclicals/documents/hf_p-xii_enc_11101954_ad-caeli-reginam.html">proclaimed Mary</a> "Queen of heaven and earth." </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Pope Piux XIX, in Ineffabilis Deus, described Mary's role as Queen in language that resonated more than 150 years later.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">"And, since she has been appointed by God to be the Queen of heaven and earth, and is exalted above all the choirs of angels and classes of saints, and even stands at the right hand of her Only-begotten Son, Jesus Christ, Our Lord, she presents our petitions in a most efficacious manner," he wrote. "She obtains what she asks for. She cannot be frustrated."</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class=""><a href="https://ecommons.udayton.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=1666&amp;context=marian_studies">His words</a> "speak of the power of the Queen of heaven and earth--her intercessory role as mediatrix between her Son and all men."</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">In Ad Caeli Reginam, written in 1954, Pope Pius XII beautifully described our reliance on Mary through the centuries, saying, </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:quote {"className":""} --> <blockquote class="wp-block-quote"><!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class=""><br><br>From the earliest ages of the catholic church a Christian people, whether in time of triumph or more especially in time of crisis, has addressed prayers of petition and hymns of praise and veneration to the Queen of Heaven. </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --></blockquote> <!-- /wp:quote --> <!-- wp:quote {"className":""} --> <blockquote class="wp-block-quote"></blockquote> <!-- /wp:quote --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">We can embrace Mary as our Mother by ask her to intercede for us through prayer.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:buttons {"layout":{"type":"flex","justifyContent":"center"}} --> <div class="wp-block-buttons"><!-- wp:button --> <div class="wp-block-button"><a class="wp-block-button__link wp-element-button" href="https://hallow.app.link/xQYahZwh1Vb">Try Hallow for Free</a></div> <!-- /wp:button --></div> <!-- /wp:buttons --> <!-- wp:heading {"className":""} --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="prayers">Prayers to Honor Mary's Queenship</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Praying to Mary as Queen connects us to her powerful intercession. Here are meaningful ways to honor her royal dignity:</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:list {"className":""} --> <ul class="wp-block-list"><!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Pray the <a href="/blog/how-to-pray-the-hail-mary/">Hail Mary</a> with special attention to the words "pray for us sinners"</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Pray the <a href="https://hallow.com/blog/angelus-prayer-how-to-pray/">angelus prayer</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Recite the Salve Regina (Hail, Holy Queen) prayer</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Pray the <a href="/blog/how-to-pray-the-rosary/">Rosary</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Begin a <a href="/blog/how-to-pray-novenas/">novena</a> to Mary, Queen of Heaven</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --></ul> <!-- /wp:list --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">The "Salve Regina", which we pray at the end of a rosary, is particularly fitting for this feast. This ancient prayer addresses Mary directly as our Queen and Mother of Mercy:</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class=""><em>Hail, Holy Queen, Mother of Mercy,<br>Our life, our sweetness and our hope.<br>To thee do we cry, poor banished children of Eve;<br>To thee do we send up our sighs,<br>Mourning and weeping in this valley of tears.<br>Turn then, most gracious advocate,<br>Thine eyes of mercy toward us;<br>And after this our exile,<br>Show unto us the blessed fruit of thy womb, Jesus.<br>O clement, O loving, O sweet Virgin Mary.</em></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"className":""} --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="feast-day">Queenship of Mary Feast Day</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Catholics celerbate the feast of the Queenship of Mary each year on August 22nd, we can honor Mary's Queenship in several meaningful ways:</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:list {"className":""} --> <ul class="wp-block-list"><!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Attend Mass if possible, reflecting on the Queenship of Mary readings</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Pray the Glorious Mysteries of the Rosary</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Place flowers near an image of Mary in your home</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Begin your <a href="/blog/morning-prayer/">morning prayer</a> by asking for Mary's queenly intercession</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Read and reflect on Pope Pius XII's encyclical "Ad Caeli Reginam" which established this feast</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --></ul> <!-- /wp:list --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">The feast is especially popular in Australia, which counts Mary as its patroness under the title of "Help of Christians."</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class=""></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"className":""} --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="resources">Hallow Resources for Feast of Queenship of Mary</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">The Hallow app offers a number of resources to help you draw closer to God through Mary on the feast of her Queenship.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">In addition to many of the prayers mentioned above (Salve Regina, Rosary, Angelus), Hallow also offers the <a href="https://hallow.com/blog/litany-of-the-blessed-virgin-mary-litany-of-loreto/">Litany of the Blessed Virgin Mary</a> and the <a href="https://hallow.com/blog/how-to-pray-mary-undoer-of-knots-novena/">Mary, Undoer of Knots Novena</a>, along with many of prayers appropriate for this feast day.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Since the feast calls during St. Michael's Lent, we also offer a session led by Sr. Alicia Torres, as part of our Michael the Archangel challenge, focusing on Mary as Queen of Angeles.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:buttons {"layout":{"type":"flex","justifyContent":"center"}} --> <div class="wp-block-buttons"><!-- wp:button --> <div class="wp-block-button"><a class="wp-block-button__link wp-element-button" href="https://hallow.app.link/xQYahZwh1Vb">Try Hallow for Free</a></div> <!-- /wp:button --></div> <!-- /wp:buttons --> [post_title] => Queenship of Mary: Feast Day and Prayers [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => closed [ping_status] => closed [post_password] => [post_name] => queenship-of-mary-feast-prayers [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2025-08-21 22:20:43 [post_modified_gmt] => 2025-08-21 22:20:43 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://hallow.com/?p=92502 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw )

WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 91811 [post_author] => 24 [post_date] => 2025-08-12 20:04:41 [post_date_gmt] => 2025-08-12 20:04:41 [post_content] => <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class=""><em>By: Sr. Elizabeth Ann Sjoberg, DC</em></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Many wear the Miraculous Medal.&nbsp;Numerous miracles, healings, and conversions are attributed to it.&nbsp;But much fewer people know the fascinating story behind this Marian Apparition and the Saint who received it.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:list {"ordered":true,"className":""} --> <ol class="wp-block-list"><!-- wp:list-item --> <li><strong>St. Catherine Labouré is the only Saint to have touched an apparition of the Blessed Virgin Mary.</strong>&nbsp;On July 18, 1830, St. Catherine followed an angel appearing as a child to the Chapel, where the <a href="https://hallow.com/blog/litany-of-the-blessed-virgin-mary-litany-of-loreto/">Blessed Virgin Mary</a> appeared, seated on a chair.&nbsp;St. Catherine recounts kneeling with her hands in the Virgin Mary’s lap, “There, a period of time passed, the sweetest of my life.”&nbsp;</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><strong>After telling her confessor, St. Catherine Laboure kept her identity as the Visionary secret for 46 years.</strong> The Blessed Virgin Mary appeared to St. Catherine when she was a 24-year-old Seminary Sister (novice) at the Motherhouse of the <a href="https://daughters-of-charity.com/">Daughters of Charity</a> in Paris, France. Despite the numerous healings and miracles associated with the Miraculous Medal, no one knew who was the visionary Sister was. St. Catherine worked with the poor and elderly for another 46 years before sharing her experience with her local superior and subsequently writing down her account of the apparitions.  </li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><strong>The Blessed Virgin Mary predicted calamities and strife, along with hope.</strong>&nbsp;The Virgin Mary told St. Catherine, “The times are evil.&nbsp; Sorrows will come upon France; the throne will be overturned. The whole world will be upset by miseries of every kind.”&nbsp;St. Catherine recounts that the Mother of God shed tears and that her face twisted in pain.&nbsp;Then the Blessed Virgin pointed to the altar where the tabernacle was and said,&nbsp;“Come to the foot of this altar.&nbsp;Here, graces will be spread over all who ask for them with confidence and fervor.”</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><strong>The Miraculous Medal was not its original name. </strong>The Blessed Virgin Mary instructed St. Catherine to have a medal made with the inscription “O Mary conceived without sin, pray for us who have recourse to thee.”&nbsp;Mary promised that those who wore the medal and prayed for her intercession would receive special graces.&nbsp;It was originally called “The Medal of the Immaculate Conception”, however there were so many accounts of miracles by those who wore it that the people themselves began to call it the Miraculous Medal.&nbsp;At the time of St. Catherine’s death in 1876, more than a billion medals had already been made.</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><strong>The Miraculous Medal is connected to </strong><a href="https://hallow.com/blog/our-lady-of-lourdes-feast-day-prayers-novena/"><strong>Our Lady of Lourdes.</strong>&nbsp;Th</a>e Marian Apparitions to St. Catherine occurred in 1830 with the message “O Mary conceived without sin, pray for us who have recourse to thee,” 24 years before Pope Pius IX declared the <a href="https://hallow.com/blog/feast-of-the-immaculate-conception-church-teaching-prayers/">Immaculate Conception</a> as a Dogma of the Catholic Church.&nbsp;Then in 1858, the Virgin Mary appeared to St. Bernadette Soubirous.&nbsp;When St. Bernadette asked who she was, Mary said, “I am the Immaculate Conception.”&nbsp; Bernadette would later say, “The Lady of the Grotto has appeared to me as displayed in the Miraculous Medal.”</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --></ol> <!-- /wp:list --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">The Miraculous Medal, the only medal designed by Mary herself, is not a good luck charm or a superstition. But rather, the Medal is a reminder of Mary’s powerful intercession for our time and circumstances. May each of us heed her call to “come to the foot of the altar” and ask for God’s graces with confidence.  </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:buttons {"layout":{"type":"flex","justifyContent":"center"}} --> <div class="wp-block-buttons"><!-- wp:button --> <div class="wp-block-button"><a class="wp-block-button__link wp-element-button" href="https://hallow.app.link/miraculousmedal">Try Hallow For Free</a></div> <!-- /wp:button --></div> <!-- /wp:buttons --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">To learn more or share your story of favors received through wearing the Miraculous Medal and Mary’s intercession, go to <a href="https://miraculousmedal.org/">https://miraculousmedal.org/</a>&nbsp;</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class=""><em>Sr. Elizabeth Sjoberg is a Daughter of Charity of St. Vincent de Paul. She is the Vocation Director for the Daughters of Charity Province of St. Louise and cohosts the podcast “In the Company of Charity” on Spotify and <a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/in-the-company-of-charity/id1437268115">Apple Podcasts</a>.</em></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"className":""} --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-related-resources">Related Resources</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:list {"className":""} --> <ul class="wp-block-list"><!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="https://hallow.com/blog/how-to-pray-novenas/">How to pray a novena</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="https://hallow.com/blog/how-to-pray-the-rosary/">How to pray the rosary</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="https://hallow.com/blog/how-to-pray-marian-consecration/">How to pray Marian consecration</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --></ul> <!-- /wp:list --> [post_title] => Five Things You Didn’t Know About the Miraculous Medal [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => closed [ping_status] => closed [post_password] => [post_name] => miraculous-medal-5-things-you-didnt-know [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2025-08-12 20:44:03 [post_modified_gmt] => 2025-08-12 20:44:03 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://hallow.com/?p=91811 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw )

WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 90707 [post_author] => 32 [post_date] => 2025-07-30 20:33:37 [post_date_gmt] => 2025-07-30 20:33:37 [post_content] => <!-- wp:list {"className":""} --> <ul class="wp-block-list"><!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Overview</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="#life">St. John Vianney's Early Life</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="#patron-saint">Patron Saint of Parish Priests</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="#prayer">Prayer</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="#pray-for-parish-priests">Pray for Parish Priests</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="#free">Hallow Free for Priests</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="#faqs">FAQs</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --></ul> <!-- /wp:list --> <!-- wp:heading {"className":""} --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-st-john-vianney-feast-day">St. John Vianney Feast Day</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">The Feast of St. John Vianney takes place on August 4 and offers us an opportunity to remember a saint whose life demonstrates the extraordinary power of prayer and devotion. In 2025, we also celebrated the 100th anniversity of St. John Vianney's canonization.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Known as the Curé of Ars ("Curé" is French for "pastor" and Ars was the French village he served), St. John Vianney stands as one of The Church's most inspiring examples of priestly dedication and the transformative impact of a life centered on prayer.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">In his beautiful encyclical Sacerdotii Nostri Primordia, <a href="https://www.vatican.va/content/john-xxiii/en/encyclicals/documents/hf_j-xxiii_enc_19590801_sacerdotii.html">published in 1959</a>, Pope John XXII wrote beautifully of St. John Vianney's impact, saying:</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:quote {"className":""} --> <blockquote class="wp-block-quote"><!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">"It is said that St. John M. Vianney lived in the Church in such a way that he worked for it alone, and burned himself up like a piece of straw being consumed on fiery coals. May that flame which comes from the Holy Spirit reach those of Us who have been raised to the priesthood of Jesus Christ and consume us too."</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --></blockquote> <!-- /wp:quote --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Learn more about St. John Vianney and his feast day below.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"className":""} --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="life">St. John Vianney's Life </h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Born in 1786 near Lyon, France, John Vianney grew up during the tumultuous aftermath of the French Revolution when practicing the Catholic faith often required courage and secrecy. Vianney grew up attending Mass when fugitive priest <a href="https://faith.nd.edu/saint/st-john-vianney/">came through the area</a>.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">His family was "poor in material possessions but rich in humanity and in faith," <a href="https://www.vatican.va/content/benedict-xvi/en/audiences/2009/documents/hf_ben-xvi_aud_20090805.html">Pope Benedixct XVI once said</a>.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Despite facing significant academic challenges and struggling with Latin during his seminary studies, his unwavering devotion to God carried him through to ordination in 1815. </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">When Father Vianney arrived at the parish of Ars, he found a community where faith had grown cold. The Church stood nearly empty, and many had fallen away from the sacraments. Through his deep commitment to <a href="/blog/morning-prayer/">morning prayer</a>, fasting, and tireless pastoral work, he gradually transformed this small village into a place of profound spiritual renewal.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:buttons {"layout":{"type":"flex","justifyContent":"center"}} --> <div class="wp-block-buttons"><!-- wp:button --> <div class="wp-block-button"><a class="wp-block-button__link wp-element-button" href="https://hallow.app.link/Iusn2ZIDdVb">Try Hallow For Free</a></div> <!-- /wp:button --></div> <!-- /wp:buttons --> <!-- wp:heading {"className":""} --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="patron-saint">The Confessional and the Patron Saint of Parish Priests</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">What makes St. John Vianney's story so remarkable was his extraordinary dedication to the <a href="https://hallow.com/blog/how-to-go-to-confession-the-sacrament-of-penance-reconciliation/">Sacrament of Reconciliation</a>. As his reputation grew, pilgrims began traveling from across France to seek his guidance. In his later years, he would spend up to 16 hours daily in the confessional, often beginning before dawn and continuing until late evening. </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">By the end of his life, hundreds of thousands of people flocked to Ars <a href="https://faith.nd.edu/saint/st-john-vianney/">to visit him</a>.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">The Curé of Ars possessed a remarkable ability to read souls, sometimes seemingly knowing penitents' sins before they spoke them. Yet it was his profound compassion—a reflection of God's own mercy—that drew thousands to this remote French village. Through his ministry in the confessional, countless souls experienced healing and conversion.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">St. John Vianney's life reminds us that holiness isn't reserved for the intellectually brilliant or naturally gifted. His struggles with academic learning never hindered his profound spiritual wisdom. In 1925, Pope Pius XI recognized his extraordinary example by <a href="https://www.vaticannews.va/en/saints/08/04/st--john--m--vianney-the-cur-of-ars--patron-of--parish-priests.html">declaring him</a> the patron saint of parish priests worldwide. And now, many seminaries (not to mention high schools) are named in his honor.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">In this way, St. John Vianney's legacy includes teaching and sharing the faith to many, always pointing people towards Christ.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">"Vianney was specific about Christ," wrote <a href="https://books.google.com/books/about/Saint_John_Vianney.html?id=lcNJDnDAuDYC&amp;printsec=frontcover&amp;source=kp_read_button&amp;hl=en&amp;newbks=1&amp;newbks_redir=0#v=onepage&amp;q&amp;f=false">George William Rutler in <em>The Curé D'ars Today</em></a>. "He knew that great teachers pass on teachings, but that Christ passes on himself."</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:buttons {"layout":{"type":"flex","justifyContent":"center"}} --> <div class="wp-block-buttons"><!-- wp:button --> <div class="wp-block-button"><a class="wp-block-button__link wp-element-button" href="https://hallow.app.link/Iusn2ZIDdVb">Try Hallow For Free</a></div> <!-- /wp:button --></div> <!-- /wp:buttons --> <!-- wp:heading {"className":""} --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="prayer">St. John Vianney and Prayer</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">The Curé of Ars left us with profound insights about prayer that remain relevant today. He understood prayer not as a duty but as the very breath of spiritual life—the essential connection between our souls and God.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">"Prayer is the inner bath of love into which the soul plunges itself," he once said. This beautiful image reminds us that prayer isn't just about asking for things but about immersing ourselves in God's presence and love.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">St. John Vianney <a href="https://www.facebook.com/saintjohnvianneysociety/photos/a.170940439585465/5788560787823374/?type=3&amp;locale=ms_MY&amp;_rdr">also taught</a> that prayer requires perseverance: "The more you pray, the more you want to pray. It's like a fish that starts by swimming near the surface of the water, then goes down deeper and plunges to the very depths." </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">His words continue to inspire many today. <a href="https://archive.org/details/TheCureOfArs-SelectionsFromTheWritingsOfStJohnVianney/CureOfArsLittleCatechismEtc.all/page/n27/mode/2up">This passage</a> from his writing is equally beautiful and moving:</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:quote {"className":""} --> <blockquote class="wp-block-quote"><!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">My children, your heart is poor and narrow; but prayer enlarges it, and renders it capable of loving God. Prayer is a foretaste of Heaven, an overflow of paradise. It never leaves us without sweetness. It is like honey descending into the soul and sweetening everything. Troubles melt away before a fervent prayer like snow before the sun. Prayer makes time pass away very quickly, and so pleasantly that one does not perceive how it passes….</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class=""></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --></blockquote> <!-- /wp:quote --> <!-- wp:buttons {"layout":{"type":"flex","justifyContent":"center"}} --> <div class="wp-block-buttons"><!-- wp:button --> <div class="wp-block-button"><a class="wp-block-button__link wp-element-button" href="https://hallow.app.link/Iusn2ZIDdVb">Try Hallow For Free</a></div> <!-- /wp:button --></div> <!-- /wp:buttons --> <!-- wp:heading {"className":""} --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="pray-for-parish-priests">Pray for Parish Priests</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">The Feast of St. John Vianney is a great reminder to us to offer up prayers for priests, both in our own communities and across the world.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">On Hallow, Sr. Miriam James Heidland, SOLT leads a session of prayers inviting us to pray specifically for priests.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">This collection includes a litany for priests, as well as a prayer written by Richard Cardinal Cushing, former Archbishop of Boston, <a href="https://www.thebostonpilot.com/article.php?ID=197575">whose vision</a> it was "to establish a permanent residence for archdiocesan senior priests that would provide them with a real home, basic care, and the opportunity to continue priestly ministry while aging in place."</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">St. John Vianney's life offers incredible inspiration for our own spiritual journeys. Despite humble beginnings and significant obstacles, his dedication to prayer and the sacraments transformed not only his parish but countless souls throughout France and beyond.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"className":""} --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="free">Hallow Free for Priests</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Hallow is pleased to offer preists, religious sisters, deacons and others free lifetime subscriptions to Hallow.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">If you know someone in religious life who would like a free lifetime subscription to Hallow, please <a href="https://hallow.com/religious">share this form</a> with them.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"className":""} --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="faqs">Common Questions About St. John Vianney</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:yoast/faq-block {"questions":[{"id":"faq-question-1753901957942","question":["Why is St. John Vianney known as patron saint of priests?"],"answer":["St. John Vianney is the patron saint of priests because of his extraordinary dedication to his priestly ministry, particularly in the confessional. Despite his academic struggles, he showed that holiness and effective ministry come through devotion and prayer rather than intellectual brilliance alone. Pope Pius XI officially declared him the patron saint of parish priests worldwide in 1925."],"jsonQuestion":"Why is St. John Vianney known as patron saint of priests?","jsonAnswer":"St. John Vianney is the patron saint of priests because of his extraordinary dedication to his priestly ministry, particularly in the confessional. Despite his academic struggles, he showed that holiness and effective ministry come through devotion and prayer rather than intellectual brilliance alone. Pope Pius XI officially declared him the patron saint of parish priests worldwide in 1925."},{"id":"faq-question-1753902452147","question":["What miracles is St. John Vianney known for?"],"answer":["St. John Vianney believed that conversion from sin to grace ",{"type":"a","props":{"href":"https://catholiceducation.org/en/faith-and-character/miracles-in-ars.html","children":["represented"]}}," \u0022a greater miracle than what the Lord did to raise Lazarus!\u0022 After his death, at least 30 physical miracles were attributed to his intercession, leading to his canonization in 1925."],"jsonQuestion":"What miracles is St. John Vianney known for?","jsonAnswer":"St. John Vianney believed that conversion from sin to grace \u003ca href=\u0022https://catholiceducation.org/en/faith-and-character/miracles-in-ars.html\u0022\u003erepresented\u003c/a\u003e \u0022a greater miracle than what the Lord did to raise Lazarus!\u0022 After his death, at least 30 physical miracles were attributed to his intercession, leading to his canonization in 1925."},{"id":"faq-question-1753902619556","question":["How to pray for priests through St. John Vianney's intercession? "],"answer":["Consider this short prayer, ",{"type":"a","props":{"href":"https://cureofars.com/coanovena","children":["via Curé of Ars Catholic Church"]}},": ",{"type":"em","props":{"children":["O holy Curé of Ars, St. John Vianney, you loved God and faithfully served Him by serving His people as their priest. Now, as you are with our Father, you can continue to serve Him by presenting our petitions to Him directly. Remember the vulnerabilities, fears, and anxieties that surround us and intercede for us in all our needs, especially….(here mention your own personal request). O Priest of Ars, pray for us in a special way during this novena, we ask in the name of Jesus our Lord. Amen."]}}," You can also offer Masses, ",{"type":"a","props":{"href":"/blog/how-to-pray-novenas/","children":["novenas"]}},", or the ",{"type":"a","props":{"href":"/blog/how-to-pray-the-rosary/","children":["rosary"]}}," for priests through his intercession."],"jsonQuestion":"How to pray for priests through St. John Vianney's intercession? ","jsonAnswer":"Consider this short prayer, \u003ca href=\u0022https://cureofars.com/coanovena\u0022\u003evia Curé of Ars Catholic Church\u003c/a\u003e: \u003cem\u003eO holy Curé of Ars, St. John Vianney, you loved God and faithfully served Him by serving His people as their priest. Now, as you are with our Father, you can continue to serve Him by presenting our petitions to Him directly. Remember the vulnerabilities, fears, and anxieties that surround us and intercede for us in all our needs, especially….(here mention your own personal request). O Priest of Ars, pray for us in a special way during this novena, we ask in the name of Jesus our Lord. Amen.\u003c/em\u003e You can also offer Masses, \u003ca href=\u0022/blog/how-to-pray-novenas/\u0022\u003enovenas\u003c/a\u003e, or the \u003ca href=\u0022/blog/how-to-pray-the-rosary/\u0022\u003erosary\u003c/a\u003e for priests through his intercession."},{"id":"faq-question-1753902650966","question":["Where is St. John Vianney's shrine?"],"answer":["St. John Vianney's shrine is located in Ars, France, a small village about 25 miles north of Lyon. The Basilica of Ars contains his incorrupt body and has become a major pilgrimage site, especially for priests and those discerning vocations to the priesthood. The modest rectory where he lived has been preserved, allowing pilgrims to see the simple conditions in which this great saint lived his extraordinary life."],"jsonQuestion":"Where is St. John Vianney's shrine?","jsonAnswer":"St. John Vianney's shrine is located in Ars, France, a small village about 25 miles north of Lyon. The Basilica of Ars contains his incorrupt body and has become a major pilgrimage site, especially for priests and those discerning vocations to the priesthood. The modest rectory where he lived has been preserved, allowing pilgrims to see the simple conditions in which this great saint lived his extraordinary life."}]} --> <div class="schema-faq wp-block-yoast-faq-block"><div class="schema-faq-section" id="faq-question-1753901957942"><strong class="schema-faq-question">Why is St. John Vianney known as patron saint of priests?</strong> <p class="schema-faq-answer">St. John Vianney is the patron saint of priests because of his extraordinary dedication to his priestly ministry, particularly in the confessional. Despite his academic struggles, he showed that holiness and effective ministry come through devotion and prayer rather than intellectual brilliance alone. Pope Pius XI officially declared him the patron saint of parish priests worldwide in 1925.</p> </div> <div class="schema-faq-section" id="faq-question-1753902452147"><strong class="schema-faq-question">What miracles is St. John Vianney known for?</strong> <p class="schema-faq-answer">St. John Vianney believed that conversion from sin to grace <a href="https://catholiceducation.org/en/faith-and-character/miracles-in-ars.html">represented</a> "a greater miracle than what the Lord did to raise Lazarus!" After his death, at least 30 physical miracles were attributed to his intercession, leading to his canonization in 1925.</p> </div> <div class="schema-faq-section" id="faq-question-1753902619556"><strong class="schema-faq-question">How to pray for priests through St. John Vianney's intercession? </strong> <p class="schema-faq-answer">Consider this short prayer, <a href="https://cureofars.com/coanovena">via Curé of Ars Catholic Church</a>: <em>O holy Curé of Ars, St. John Vianney, you loved God and faithfully served Him by serving His people as their priest. Now, as you are with our Father, you can continue to serve Him by presenting our petitions to Him directly. Remember the vulnerabilities, fears, and anxieties that surround us and intercede for us in all our needs, especially….(here mention your own personal request). O Priest of Ars, pray for us in a special way during this novena, we ask in the name of Jesus our Lord. Amen.</em> You can also offer Masses, <a href="/blog/how-to-pray-novenas/">novenas</a>, or the <a href="/blog/how-to-pray-the-rosary/">rosary</a> for priests through his intercession.</p> </div> <div class="schema-faq-section" id="faq-question-1753902650966"><strong class="schema-faq-question">Where is St. John Vianney's shrine?</strong> <p class="schema-faq-answer">St. John Vianney's shrine is located in Ars, France, a small village about 25 miles north of Lyon. The Basilica of Ars contains his incorrupt body and has become a major pilgrimage site, especially for priests and those discerning vocations to the priesthood. The modest rectory where he lived has been preserved, allowing pilgrims to see the simple conditions in which this great saint lived his extraordinary life.</p> </div> </div> <!-- /wp:yoast/faq-block --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">St. John Vianney, pray for us!</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"className":""} --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-more-resources">More Resources</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:list {"className":""} --> <ul class="wp-block-list"><!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="https://hallow.com/blog/back-to-school-prayers-for-teachers/">Back to School Prayers for Teachers</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="https://hallow.com/blog/catholic-schools-week/">Catholic Schools Week</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="https://hallow.com/blog/daily-prayer-prayers-for-today/">Daily Prayer</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --></ul> <!-- /wp:list --> [post_title] => Feast of St. John Vianney [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => closed [ping_status] => closed [post_password] => [post_name] => st-john-vianney-feast-day [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2025-07-30 20:33:51 [post_modified_gmt] => 2025-07-30 20:33:51 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://hallow.com/?p=90707 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw )

WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 90483 [post_author] => 32 [post_date] => 2025-07-25 16:44:59 [post_date_gmt] => 2025-07-25 16:44:59 [post_content] => <!-- wp:list {"className":""} --> <ul class="wp-block-list"><!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="#who-was-st-james">Who was St. James?</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="#origins">Origins of St. James Day/Feast of St. James</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="#celebration">Observing and celebrating the Feast of St. James</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="#prayer">Prayer for Feast of St. James</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --></ul> <!-- /wp:list --> <!-- wp:buttons {"layout":{"type":"flex","justifyContent":"center"}} --> <div class="wp-block-buttons"><!-- wp:button --> <div class="wp-block-button"><a class="wp-block-button__link wp-element-button" href="https://hallow.app.link/Iusn2ZIDdVb">Try Hallow for Free</a></div> <!-- /wp:button --></div> <!-- /wp:buttons --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">The Feast of St. James the Apostle, honors one of Jesus' closest disciples and the first Apostle to be martyred for the faith. St. James, known also as James the Greater, was one of the "Sons of Thunder" with his brother John—a nickname that Jesus gave them that hints at their passionate, zealous nature (which is evident to any viewers of The Chosen!) Tradition holds that James was the older brother, though Scripture does not clarify this. </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">We celebrate the feast each year on July 25. Each year, this feast day offers us a beautiful opportunity to reflect on a man who walked closely with Christ and ultimately gave his life for the Gospel. Whether you're a longtime devotee or just learning about this incredible saint, his feast day provides a perfect moment to <a href="/blog/how-to-pray-the-rosary/">deepen your prayer life</a> and connect with the rich traditions of our faith.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"className":""} --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="who-was-st-james">Who Was St. James the Apostle.</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">St. James was one of the first disciples called by Jesus. He was close to Jesus, witnessing pivotal moments like the Transfiguration and being present during Christ's agony in the Garden of Gethsemane.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Scripture shows us a man of contrasts—someone fiery enough to earn the "Son of Thunder" nickname, yet humble enough to follow Jesus with complete devotion. </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:quote {"className":""} --> <blockquote class="wp-block-quote"><!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">He walked along from there and saw two other brothers, James, the son of Zebedee, and his brother John. They were in a boat, with their father Zebedee, mending their nets. He called them, and immediately they left their boat and their father and followed him. - Matthew 4:21-22</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --></blockquote> <!-- /wp:quote --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">After Christ's Ascension, James preached fearlessly in Judea and Samaria before becoming the first Apostle to be martyred, beheaded by King Herod Agrippa around 44 A.D. in Jerusalem. </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">He was the first of the original 12 to die for his faith, as we learn in the 12th chapter of the Acts of the Apostles.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Tradition holds that before his martyrdom, James evangelized in Spain, which explains his profound connection to the famous pilgrimage route, the Camino de Santiago where millions have journeyed to venerate his relics at the Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Though St. James has a large presence in the Gospels, the Biblical book of James is not connected to him. According to William Farina's book "<a href="https://books.google.com/books?id=kNZSDwAAQBAJ&amp;printsec=frontcover&amp;dq=st.+james+martyred&amp;hl=en&amp;newbks=1&amp;newbks_redir=0&amp;sa=X&amp;ved=2ahUKEwi7j86CttaOAxXnlokEHfxdMX4Q6AF6BAgFEAM#v=onepage&amp;q=st.%20james%20martyred&amp;f=false">St. James the Greater in History, Art and Culture</a>," the New Testament's Epistle of James was written by James the Just, not St. James the Greater.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:buttons {"layout":{"type":"flex","justifyContent":"center"}} --> <div class="wp-block-buttons"><!-- wp:button --> <div class="wp-block-button"><a class="wp-block-button__link wp-element-button" href="https://hallow.app.link/Iusn2ZIDdVb">Try Hallow for Free</a></div> <!-- /wp:button --></div> <!-- /wp:buttons --> <!-- wp:heading {"className":""} --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="origins">The Origins and Significance of St. James' Feast Day</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">The July 25 feast day for St. James has been celebrated since early Christian times, with <a href="https://celticcountries.com/traditions/35-james-the-patron-saint-of-galicia">some sources</a> tracing the celebration back at least to the 9th century.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">With James, we are reminded that Jesus doesn't call perfect people to follow Him. He calls us all, just as he called James</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Google Trends tells us that St. James Day is most popular in Spanish, where devotion to James is particularly strong. </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Spain is home to the shrine of St. James the Great, also called the Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela, a popular pilgrimate destination and where St. James is believed to be buried. (James is also called "Santiago" in Spanish). Read a Hallow employee's personal journey of walking "<a href="https://hallow.com/blog/hallow-spotlight-a-spiritual-journey-on-the-camino/">The Way of St. James.</a>"</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">One of the most famous miracles attributed to St. James happened to a man who returned from a pilgrimage here. According to "Miracles of Saint James" by Linda Davidson, the man's son, who had been unjustly hanged, was revived after the man returned from Santiago de Compostela. </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">It's just one of the 22 miracles commonly associated with St. James.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Modern celebrations of St. James Day include processions, special Masses, traditional foods, and in Santiago de Compostela, spectacular fireworks displays and a unique incense burner (<a href="https://caminoways.com/botafumeiro-santiago-de-compostela">botafumeiro</a>) swinging through the cathedral.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">The Philippines also plays host to St. James Day celebrations, with some towns going so far as to <a href="https://www.sunstar.com.ph/pampanga/betis-to-celebrate-feast-day-of-saint-james-the-apostle">cancel school</a> in order to observe the feast day.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"className":""} --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="celebration">Ways to Observe the Feast of St. James</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">There are many meaningful ways to celebrate this special feast day:</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:list {"className":""} --> <ul class="wp-block-list"><!-- wp:list-item --> <li><strong>Attend Mass</strong> - If possible, try to attend daily Mass, where the readings and prayers will focus on St. James' life and witness.</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><strong>Pray for pilgrims</strong> - Offer <a href="/blog/morning-prayer/">morning prayers</a> for those currently walking the Camino de Santiago, that they might find spiritual renewal.</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><strong>Learn his story</strong> - Read the Gospel accounts featuring St. James (particularly Mark 1:16-20, 3:17, 10:35-45, and Matthew 17:1-8).</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><strong>Prepare a feast</strong> - In Spain, St. James Day often features seafood dishes like scallops (his symbol is the scallop shell). Consider preparing a special meal with family.</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><strong>Pray for courage</strong> - Ask St. James to intercede for you, that you might have his courage to witness to Christ even when it's difficult, and to follow whatever path He leads you</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><strong>Make a donation</strong> to a charity that supports missionary work.</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --></ul> <!-- /wp:list --> <!-- wp:heading {"className":""} --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="prayer">A Prayer Tradition for St. James' Feast</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Many Catholics pray a <a href="/blog/how-to-pray-novenas/">novena</a> leading up to his feast day. This is often done beginning on July 16th and concluding on July 24th, the day before the feast.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Hallow offers a number of audio-guided novenas that you might consider praying ahead of the Feast of St. James, includng the <a href="https://hallow.com/blog/how-to-pray-the-surrender-novena/">Surrender Novena</a> and the Discernment Novena, led by Sr. Josephine Garrett.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">You can also pray this simple prayer asking for the intercession of St. James:</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:quote {"className":""} --> <blockquote class="wp-block-quote"><!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">"St. James, chosen by Jesus to be at His side during so many significant moments of His life, pray for me that I may remain close to Jesus in my own life. Pray that I have the courage to travel whatever road Jesus leads me down. Pray that I may have the strength to encounter whatever adversity comes by way, just as you bravely faced it in your martyrdom. In Jesus's name I pray. Amen."</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --></blockquote> <!-- /wp:quote --> <!-- wp:buttons {"layout":{"type":"flex","justifyContent":"center"}} --> <div class="wp-block-buttons"><!-- wp:button --> <div class="wp-block-button"><a class="wp-block-button__link wp-element-button" href="https://hallow.app.link/Iusn2ZIDdVb">Try Hallow for Free</a></div> <!-- /wp:button --></div> <!-- /wp:buttons --> <!-- wp:heading {"className":""} --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-more-resources">More Resources</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">At Hallow, we're particularly moved by how St. James shows us that peace often comes through transformation. His journey from ambitious fisherman to faithful martyr reminds us that prayer changes us from the inside out.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Here are some more resources to allow Jesus to transform your heart:</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:list {"className":""} --> <ul class="wp-block-list"><!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="https://hallow.com/blog/st-michaels-lent/">How to observe St. Michael's Lent</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="https://hallow.com/blog/how-to-pray-54-day-novena/">54-Day Novena</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="https://hallow.com/blog/how-to-pray-mary-undoer-of-knots-novena">How to Pray the Mary, Undoer of Knots Novena</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --></ul> <!-- /wp:list --> [post_title] => How to Celebrate the Feast of St. James: A Guide to St. James Day [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => closed [ping_status] => closed [post_password] => [post_name] => feast-of-st-james-day [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2025-07-25 16:45:12 [post_modified_gmt] => 2025-07-25 16:45:12 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://hallow.com/?p=90483 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw )

WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 90321 [post_author] => 32 [post_date] => 2025-07-23 17:30:10 [post_date_gmt] => 2025-07-23 17:30:10 [post_content] => <!-- wp:list {"className":""} --> <ul class="wp-block-list"><!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="#text">Jump to the Prayer</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="#history">Origins and History</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="#meaning">The Memorare's Meaning</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="#when-to-pray">When to Pray</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="#benefits">Benefits</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="#faqs">FAQs</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="#on-hallow">Memorare on Hallow</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --></ul> <!-- /wp:list --> <!-- wp:buttons {"layout":{"type":"flex","justifyContent":"center"}} --> <div class="wp-block-buttons"><!-- wp:button --> <div class="wp-block-button"><a class="wp-block-button__link wp-element-button" href="https://hallow.app.link/Iusn2ZIDdVb">Pray the Memorare with Hallow</a></div> <!-- /wp:button --></div> <!-- /wp:buttons --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">The Memorare is one of the most cherished Marian prayers in the Catholic faith. It's a heartfelt reminder that we can always turn to our Blessed Mother, trusting in her unfailing help, especially in our times of need.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Hallow's guide to the Memorare will help you learn more about this popular prayer and why it</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"className":""} --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="text">The Memorare Prayer Text</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:quote {"className":""} --> <blockquote class="wp-block-quote"><!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Remember, O most gracious Virgin Mary, that never was it known that anyone who fled to thy protection, implored thy help, or sought thine intercession was left unaided. <br><br>Inspired by this confidence, I fly unto thee, O Virgin of virgins, my Mother. <br><br>To thee do I come, before thee I stand, sinful and sorrowful. <br><br>O Mother of the Word Incarnate, despise not my petitions, but in thy mercy hear and answer me. <br><br>Amen.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --></blockquote> <!-- /wp:quote --> <!-- wp:heading {"className":""} --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="history">Origins and History of the Memorare</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">The Memorare (Latin for "Remember") is often attributed to St. Bernard of Clairvaux, a <a href="https://www.americamagazine.org/faith/2018/07/18/dear-anxious-millennials-i-have-perfect-prayer-you">Doctor of the Church</a>. The prayer as we know it today became widely popular through the efforts of Fr. Claude Bernard in the 17th century; he distributed more than 200,000 copies of the prayer after attributing his own miraculous recovery from illness to Mary's intercession.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Found in a <a href="https://books.google.com/books?id=IbcRAAAAYAAJ&amp;pg=PA433&amp;dq=memorare&amp;hl=en&amp;newbks=1&amp;newbks_redir=0&amp;sa=X&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiL1df9utGOAxVqmokEHY5KOcMQ6AF6BAgJEAM#v=onepage&amp;q=memorare&amp;f=false">19th century Irish magazine</a>, this prose, sort of a mix between a poem and a prayer, reflects post the popular of the Memorare at this time, and its close connectiont to St. Bernard of Clairvaux, who first became a mong at Citeaux Abbey:</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:quote {"className":""} --> <blockquote class="wp-block-quote"><!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Memorare! Through the ages,<br>Lightning saint and sinner low,<br>Touching heroes, poets, sages,<br>With a deeper spirit-glow,<br>Comes the prayer of Mary's Bernard,<br>Potent now, as long ago,<br>When it rose like incense heavenward<br>From the groves of dark Citeaux</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Memorare, O Maria!<br>That it never hath been known<br>Earthly pleading, Mater pia,<br>Rose unheeded to thy throne.<br>Hear us, then, who kneel before thee,<br>With a long that fain would grow<br>To the love that Bernard bore thee<br>In the cloisters of Citeaux</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --></blockquote> <!-- /wp:quote --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class=""><a href="https://hallow.com/saints/francis-de-sales/">St. Francis de Sales</a>, famous for his <a href="https://hallow.com/blog/salesian-spirituality-guide/">Salesian spirituality</a>, highly recommended the Memorare, and it has remained a cherished prayer for countless Catholics seeking Mary's powerful intercession. The prayer beautifully expresses our confidence in approaching our Blessed Mother, knowing she will carry our petitions to her Son.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">In more recent times, the Memorare prayer has <a href="https://www.vaticannews.va/en/vatican-city/news/2023-12/commission-protection-minors-global-south-safeguarding.html">inspired the name</a> of the Pontifical Commission for the Protection of Minors's (PCPM) program called the Memorare Initiative, which aims to collaborate with local Churches worldwide in to strengthen the protection of children and vulnerable adults. It's a fitting name, given the text of the prayer helps us to call upon Mary for her protection.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">The prayer is as relevant today as ever. In the 2025 Jubilee Year, <a href="https://salinadiocese.org/office/jubilee-year-of-hope-2025/a-million-memorares-for-hope/">one American diocese</a> launched "A Million Memorares for hope," with the goal of "deepening our diocese’s prayer life and fostering a spirit of hope."</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:buttons {"layout":{"type":"flex","justifyContent":"center"}} --> <div class="wp-block-buttons"><!-- wp:button --> <div class="wp-block-button"><a class="wp-block-button__link wp-element-button" href="https://hallow.app.link/Iusn2ZIDdVb">Pray the Memorare with Hallow</a></div> <!-- /wp:button --></div> <!-- /wp:buttons --> <!-- wp:heading {"className":""} --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="meaning">Understanding the Memorare's Meaning</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">The Memorare begins with a powerful statement of confidence: "never was it known that anyone who fled to thy protection... was left unaided." This isn't just poetic language—it's a profound theological truth about Mary's role in our spiritual lives. As the mother of Jesus, Mary has a unique relationship with Christ and a special place in our prayer life.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">When we pray the Memorare, we're acknowledging both our own need for help ("sinful and sorrowful") and our complete trust in Mary's maternal intercession. Unlike the <a href="/blog/how-to-pray-the-hail-mary/">Hail Mary</a>, which begins with the angel Gabriel's greeting, the Memorare immediately places us in a position of seeking Mary's assistance with complete confidence in her care.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"className":""} --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="when-to-pray">When to Pray the Memorare</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Some of the beauty of the Memorare is its simplicity and versatility: It's easy to pray and can be offered up in any number of situations:</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:list {"className":""} --> <ul class="wp-block-list"><!-- wp:list-item --> <li><strong>During times of urgent need</strong> - The Memorare is particularly powerful when facing difficult decisions or seemingly impossible situations.</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><strong>As part of a daily Marian devotion</strong> - Many Catholics include the Memorare in their <a href="/blog/morning-prayer/">morning prayer</a> routine.</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><strong>Before bed</strong> - The prayer makes a beautiful addition to your <a href="/blog/night-prayer-bedtime/">night prayer</a> routine.</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><strong>In a novena format</strong> - Some traditions involve praying the Memorare nine times in a row as an "emergency novena." St. Teresa of Calcutta was known to pray what she called her "<a href="https://hallow.com/blog/mother-teresa-prayers-emergency-novena/">Flying Novena</a>" — nine Memorares in a row followed by a tenth in thanksgiving for the favor received.</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><strong>As part of the Rosary</strong> - Some people add the Memorare at the beginning or end of their daily <a href="/blog/how-to-pray-the-rosary/">Rosary</a>.</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --></ul> <!-- /wp:list --> <!-- wp:heading {"className":""} --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="benefits">The Spiritual Benefits of Praying the Memorare</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Mother Theresa <a href="https://catholicmessenger.net/2022/06/mother-teresa-the-fruit-of-prayer/">once said</a>:</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">“The fruit of silence is prayer, the fruit of prayer is faith, the fruit of faith is love, the fruit of love is service, and the fruit of service is peace.”</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Like all prayer, the memorare can help us grow in faith. Regularly praying it helps us develop a deeper relationship with Mary, who leads us to her Son, Jesus. This prayer reminds us that we're never alone in our struggles. Just as Mary stood at the foot of the Cross during Jesus's greatest suffering, she stands with us in our moments of need.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">In Mary, we have a mother who understands human suffering and brings our needs directly to her Son.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"className":""} --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="faqs">Commonly Asked Questions About the Memorare</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:yoast/faq-block {"questions":[{"id":"faq-question-1753218085564","question":["Is the Memorare prayer in the Bible?"],"answer":["The Memorare isn't directly from Scripture, but its theology is deeply biblical. It reflects Mary's intercessory role, which we see at events like the Wedding at Cana (John 2:1-11) where Mary brings needs to Jesus."],"jsonQuestion":"Is the Memorare prayer in the Bible?","jsonAnswer":"The Memorare isn't directly from Scripture, but its theology is deeply biblical. It reflects Mary's intercessory role, which we see at events like the Wedding at Cana (John 2:1-11) where Mary brings needs to Jesus."},{"id":"faq-question-1753218105828","question":["Can non-Catholics pray the Memorare?"],"answer":["Anyone can pray the Memorare who feels drawn to Mary's intercession. While Marian devotion is most prominent in Catholic and some Orthodox traditions, all are welcome to seek Mary's prayers."],"jsonQuestion":"Can non-Catholics pray the Memorare?","jsonAnswer":"Anyone can pray the Memorare who feels drawn to Mary's intercession. While Marian devotion is most prominent in Catholic and some Orthodox traditions, all are welcome to seek Mary's prayers."},{"id":"faq-question-1753218118316","question":["How is the Memorare different from other Marian prayers?"],"answer":["Unlike prayers like the Hail Mary which begin with praise, the Memorare immediately expresses confidence in Mary's help and presents our petitions. It's particularly focused on seeking Mary's intercession in times of need."],"jsonQuestion":"How is the Memorare different from other Marian prayers?","jsonAnswer":"Unlike prayers like the Hail Mary which begin with praise, the Memorare immediately expresses confidence in Mary's help and presents our petitions. It's particularly focused on seeking Mary's intercession in times of need."}]} --> <div class="schema-faq wp-block-yoast-faq-block"><div class="schema-faq-section" id="faq-question-1753218085564"><strong class="schema-faq-question">Is the Memorare prayer in the Bible?</strong> <p class="schema-faq-answer">The Memorare isn't directly from Scripture, but its theology is deeply biblical. It reflects Mary's intercessory role, which we see at events like the Wedding at Cana (John 2:1-11) where Mary brings needs to Jesus.</p> </div> <div class="schema-faq-section" id="faq-question-1753218105828"><strong class="schema-faq-question">Can non-Catholics pray the Memorare?</strong> <p class="schema-faq-answer">Anyone can pray the Memorare who feels drawn to Mary's intercession. While Marian devotion is most prominent in Catholic and some Orthodox traditions, all are welcome to seek Mary's prayers.</p> </div> <div class="schema-faq-section" id="faq-question-1753218118316"><strong class="schema-faq-question">How is the Memorare different from other Marian prayers?</strong> <p class="schema-faq-answer">Unlike prayers like the Hail Mary which begin with praise, the Memorare immediately expresses confidence in Mary's help and presents our petitions. It's particularly focused on seeking Mary's intercession in times of need.</p> </div> </div> <!-- /wp:yoast/faq-block --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class=""></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"className":""} --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="on-hallow">Incorporating the Memorare into Your Prayer Life</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">The Memorare is a simple prayer to memorize and incorporate into your daily routine.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Hallow can also help.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">On the Hallow app, there are several different sessions of the Memorare available--same prayer, different voice.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">In addition to standard Hallow voices like Francis and Abby, you can also pray the Memorare in sessions led by Jonathan Roumie.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Hallow also offers the Memorare with audio from Fr. Patrick Peyton, known as "Rosary priest." Fr. Peyton, who died in 1992, was declared venerable in 2017 by Pope Francis and his known for his tremendous work popularizing the rosary and prayer within families.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:buttons {"layout":{"type":"flex","justifyContent":"center"}} --> <div class="wp-block-buttons"><!-- wp:button --> <div class="wp-block-button"><a class="wp-block-button__link wp-element-button" href="https://hallow.app.link/Iusn2ZIDdVb">Pray the Memorare with Hallow</a></div> <!-- /wp:button --></div> <!-- /wp:buttons --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class=""></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"className":""} --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-related-resources">Related Resources</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:list {"className":""} --> <ul class="wp-block-list"><!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="https://hallow.com/blog/angelus-prayer-how-to-pray/">How to pray the Angelus prayer</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="https://hallow.com/blog/how-to-pray-the-rosary/">How to pray the Rosary</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="https://hallow.com/blog/how-to-pray-marian-consecration/">How to pray Marian Consecration</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --></ul> <!-- /wp:list --> <!-- wp:list {"className":""} --> <ul class="wp-block-list"></ul> <!-- /wp:list --> [post_title] => How to Pray the Memorare [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => closed [ping_status] => closed [post_password] => [post_name] => memorare-prayer-how-to-pray [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2025-07-23 17:30:25 [post_modified_gmt] => 2025-07-23 17:30:25 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://hallow.com/?p=90321 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw )

WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 89237 [post_author] => 32 [post_date] => 2025-07-10 19:21:06 [post_date_gmt] => 2025-07-10 19:21:06 [post_content] => <!-- wp:heading {"className":""} --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-angelus-prayer-table-of-contents">The Angelus Prayer: Table of Contents</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:list {"className":""} --> <ul class="wp-block-list"><!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="#english">Angelus Prayer in English</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="#latin">Angelus Prayer in Latin</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="#overview">Angelus Pray Overview</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="#history">History and Meaning of the Angelus Prayer</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="#pray-on-hallow">Praying the Angelus on Hallow</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="#faq">Angelus FAQ</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --></ul> <!-- /wp:list --> <!-- wp:buttons {"layout":{"type":"flex","justifyContent":"center"}} --> <div class="wp-block-buttons"><!-- wp:button --> <div class="wp-block-button"><a class="wp-block-button__link wp-element-button" href="https://hallow.app.link/rhn62MJimUb">Pray on Hallow</a></div> <!-- /wp:button --></div> <!-- /wp:buttons --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">The Angelus prayer offers a beautiful way to punctuate your day with moments of grace and remembrance. This centuries-old Catholic tradition invites us to pause three times daily to commemorate the Incarnation—that incredible moment when God became human in Jesus Christ. We couldn't be more thrilled to introduce you to this meaningful prayer that has brought peace to countless faithful throughout history!</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">It remans an important part of the faith life of Catholics today, more than 1000 years after the tradition began. In fact, Pope Leo XIV, less than one month after being elected to succeed Pope Francis, <a href="https://press.vatican.va/content/salastampa/en/bollettino/pubblico/2025/07/06/250706a.html">prayed</a> the Angelus in St. Peter's Square.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:quote {"className":""} --> <blockquote class="wp-block-quote"><!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Let us ask the Blessed Virgin Mary, who generously gave her “yes” to participating in the work of salvation, to intercede for us and accompany us on the path of following the Lord, so that we too may become joyful laborers in God’s Kingdom. - Pope Leo XIV</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --></blockquote> <!-- /wp:quote --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class=""></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"className":""} --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="english">The Angelus Prayer in English: How to Pray</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">The "V" stands for Versicle, a word that refers to the liturgical leader who would say or sing the line at a service. The "R" simply stands for Response. :</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:list {"className":""} --> <ul class="wp-block-list"><!-- wp:list-item --> <li><strong>V. The Angel of the Lord declared unto Mary.</strong></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>R. And she conceived of the Holy Spirit.</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><em>Hail Mary, full of grace...</em></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><strong>V. Behold the handmaid of the Lord.</strong></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>R. Be it done unto me according to thy word.</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><em>Hail Mary, full of grace...</em></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><strong>V. And the Word was made Flesh.</strong></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>R. And dwelt among us.</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><em>Hail Mary, full of grace...</em></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><strong>V. Pray for us, O Holy Mother of God.</strong></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>R. That we may be made worthy of the promises of Christ.</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Let us pray: Pour forth, we beseech Thee, O Lord, Thy grace into our hearts, that we to whom the Incarnation of Christ Thy Son was made known by the message of an angel, may by His Passion and Cross be brought to the glory of His Resurrection. Through the same Christ our Lord. Amen.</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --></ul> <!-- /wp:list --> <!-- wp:heading {"className":""} --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="latin">Angelus Prayer in Latin: How to Pray</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">While many pray the Angelus in their native language, there's something special about connecting with the Latin tradition.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">You don't need to be a Latin expert. Here are a few basic tips from my high school studying of Latin under Fr. Robert Cregan, S.J. that can help with pronunciation:</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:list {"className":""} --> <ul class="wp-block-list"><!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Vowels each get their own sound, so "Dei" sounds like "day-ee".</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>The letter "c" is usually pronounced with a hard sound. So "concepit" is pronounced "cohn-KEP-it".</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>When it begins a word, the letter "v" takes a softer sound than we're accustomed to in English, something closer to the English" w" sound.</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Double consonants are each pronounced distinctly, so "Ecce" sounds like "ek-kay".</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --></ul> <!-- /wp:list --> <!-- wp:heading {"level":3,"className":""} --> <h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-angelus-prayer-in-latin">Angelus Prayer in Latin<strong>:</strong></h3> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:list {"className":""} --> <ul class="wp-block-list"><!-- wp:list-item --> <li><strong>V. Angelus Domini nuntiavit Mariæ.</strong></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>R. Et concepit de Spiritu Sancto.</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><em>Ave Maria...</em></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><strong>V. Ecce ancilla Domini.</strong></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>R. Fiat mihi secundum verbum tuum.</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><em>Ave Maria...</em></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><strong>V. Et Verbum caro factum est.</strong></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>R. Et habitavit in nobis.</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><em>Ave Maria...</em></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><strong>V. Ora pro nobis, sancta Dei Genitrix.</strong></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>R. Ut digni efficiamur promissionibus Christi.</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Oremus: Gratiam tuam, quæsumus, Domine, mentibus nostris infunde; ut qui, Angelo nuntiante, Christi Filii tui incarnationem cognovimus, per passionem ejus et crucem, ad resurrectionis gloriam perducamur. Per eumdem Christum Dominum nostrum. Amen.</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --></ul> <!-- /wp:list --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">If you mispronounce some words, it doesn't matter. Who will even know? Dedicating time to prayer is much more important than getting your Latin pronunciations correct!</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:buttons {"layout":{"type":"flex","justifyContent":"center"}} --> <div class="wp-block-buttons"><!-- wp:button --> <div class="wp-block-button"><a class="wp-block-button__link wp-element-button" href="https://hallow.app.link/rhn62MJimUb">Try Hallow for Free</a></div> <!-- /wp:button --></div> <!-- /wp:buttons --> <!-- wp:heading {"className":""} --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="overview">What is the Angelus Prayer?</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">The Angelus is a devotional prayer that commemorates the announcement of the Incarnation when the angel Gabriel appeared to Mary (Luke 1:26-38). The name "Angelus" comes from the Latin opening words: "Angelus Domini nuntiavit Mariae" ("The Angel of the Lord declared unto Mary").</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Traditionally prayed at 6 a.m, noon, and 6 pm, the Angelus creates a rhythm of remembrance throughout our day, helping us to center our hearts on God even amid our busiest moments--which is basically why Hallow exists. It's a beautiful way to <a href="/blog/morning-prayer/">start your morning</a>, sanctify your midday, and transition into your evening.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"className":""} --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="history">The History and Meaning of the Angelus Prayer</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">The Angelus has deep roots in Catholic tradition, evolving gradually over centuries. While its exact origins aren't precisely documented, we know that by the <a href="https://mcgrathblog.nd.edu/praying-the-angelus-daily">13th century</a>, evening bells were rung encouraging the faithful to pray three <a href="https://hallow.com/blog/how-to-pray-the-hail-mary/">Hail Marys</a>.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">By the 16th century, the prayer had taken its current form with the familiar pattern of versicles, responses, and Hail Marys, followed by a concluding prayer. The earliest known appearance of the complete prayer in a text <a href="https://books.google.com/books?id=Ip1UDwAAQBAJ&amp;printsec=frontcover&amp;dq=angelus+prayer&amp;hl=en&amp;newbks=1&amp;newbks_redir=0&amp;sa=X&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjm2bT1wrKOAxWqC3kGHbvDJZEQ6AF6BAgFEAM#v=onepage&amp;q&amp;f=false">dates back</a> from 1566, "Little Office of the Blessed Virgin."</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Throughout medieval Europe, church bells would ring to signal Angelus prayer time, a practice that continues in many places today.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">This beautiful tradition reminds us that we're part of something much larger than ourselves—a communion of saints stretching back through time who have paused to remember God's incredible gift of the Incarnation.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">At its heart, the Angelus helps us remember and celebrate the moment when God entered human history in the most intimate way possible—by becoming one of us. Each time we pray the Angelus, we're reminded of:</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:list {"className":""} --> <ul class="wp-block-list"><!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Mary's complete openness to God's will ("Behold the handmaid of the Lord")</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>The mystery of the Incarnation ("And the Word was made flesh")</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li>Our own call to bring Christ into the world through our daily lives</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --></ul> <!-- /wp:list --> <!-- wp:buttons {"layout":{"type":"flex","justifyContent":"center"}} --> <div class="wp-block-buttons"><!-- wp:button --> <div class="wp-block-button"><a class="wp-block-button__link wp-element-button" href="https://hallow.app.link/rhn62MJimUb">Try Hallow for Free</a></div> <!-- /wp:button --></div> <!-- /wp:buttons --> <!-- wp:heading {"className":""} --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="pray-on-hallow">Praying the Angelus with Hallow</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">We'd love to accompany you as you begin or deepen your practice of the Angelus prayer. The <a href="/blog/night-prayer-bedtime/">Hallow app</a> offers guided Angelus prayers to help you learn this beautiful tradition and incorporate it into your daily life.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">The Angelus reminds us that God breaks into our ordinary moments—just as He did with Mary—bringing extraordinary grace. When we pray the Angelus, we create space for God to speak to our hearts, just as the angel Gabriel spoke to Mary.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">On the Hallow app, you also can pray the Angelus in Latin with Padre Pio.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">We're thrilled to walk this journey of prayer with you! Whether you're just discovering the Angelus or returning to it after some time away (it's OK if you're rusty!), remember that each time you pray, you're joining countless faithful across the world who have paused to remember the moment when heaven touched earth.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:quote {"className":""} --> <blockquote class="wp-block-quote"><!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">"If you accept the invitation and stick with the practice daily, you will look back and find that God was indeed at work through the prayer." - Jared Dees, author, "Praying the Angelus: Find Joy, Peace, and Purpose in Everyday Life"</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --></blockquote> <!-- /wp:quote --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Jump in wherever you are in your prayer journey—God is already waiting to meet you there.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"className":""} --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="faq">Frequently Asked Questions About the Angelus</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:yoast/faq-block {"questions":[{"id":"faq-question-1752158686829","question":["When should I pray the Angelus?"],"answer":["Traditionally, the Angelus is prayed three times daily: at 6:00 am, noon, and 6:00 pm. However, you can adapt these times to fit your schedule. The important thing is creating a regular rhythm of prayer throughout your day."],"jsonQuestion":"When should I pray the Angelus?","jsonAnswer":"Traditionally, the Angelus is prayed three times daily: at 6:00 am, noon, and 6:00 pm. However, you can adapt these times to fit your schedule. The important thing is creating a regular rhythm of prayer throughout your day."},{"id":"faq-question-1752158704687","question":["Is the Angelus only for Catholics?"],"answer":["While the Angelus is a Catholic tradition, anyone drawn to this beautiful prayer is welcome to pray it. It centers on the Incarnation—God becoming human in Jesus—which is central to Christian faith across denominations."],"jsonQuestion":"Is the Angelus only for Catholics?","jsonAnswer":"While the Angelus is a Catholic tradition, anyone drawn to this beautiful prayer is welcome to pray it. It centers on the Incarnation—God becoming human in Jesus—which is central to Christian faith across denominations."},{"id":"faq-question-1752158752082","question":["Do I need to memorize the Angelus?"],"answer":["While memorization can make the prayer more accessible throughout your day, it's perfectly fine to use a prayer card, book, or the Hallow app. You'll probably find that you will have it memorized before long."],"jsonQuestion":"Do I need to memorize the Angelus?","jsonAnswer":"While memorization can make the prayer more accessible throughout your day, it's perfectly fine to use a prayer card, book, or the Hallow app. You'll probably find that you will have it memorized before long."},{"id":"faq-question-1752158773497","question":["Should I stand or kneel for the Angelus?"],"answer":["Traditionally, the Angelus is prayed standing, except for the final prayer which is sometimes prayed kneeling (particularly on Fridays). However, the posture is less important than the disposition of your heart."],"jsonQuestion":"Should I stand or kneel for the Angelus?","jsonAnswer":"Traditionally, the Angelus is prayed standing, except for the final prayer which is sometimes prayed kneeling (particularly on Fridays). However, the posture is less important than the disposition of your heart."},{"id":"faq-question-1752160123766","question":["Are there seasons for the Angelus?"],"answer":["You can pray the Angelus whenever! However,during Easter season (from Easter Sunday through Pentecost), ",{"type":"a","props":{"href":"https://www.vaticannews.va/en/pope/news/2025-06/pope-leo-xiv-pentecost-regina-caeli-reconciliation.html","children":["Catholic tradition substitutes"]}}," the Angelus with the Regina Caeli (\u0022Queen of Heaven\u0022), a prayer that celebrates Christ's resurrection and Mary's joy."],"jsonQuestion":"Are there seasons for the Angelus?","jsonAnswer":"You can pray the Angelus whenever! However,during Easter season (from Easter Sunday through Pentecost), \u003ca href=\u0022https://www.vaticannews.va/en/pope/news/2025-06/pope-leo-xiv-pentecost-regina-caeli-reconciliation.html\u0022\u003eCatholic tradition substitutes\u003c/a\u003e the Angelus with the Regina Caeli (\u0022Queen of Heaven\u0022), a prayer that celebrates Christ's resurrection and Mary's joy."}]} --> <div class="schema-faq wp-block-yoast-faq-block"><div class="schema-faq-section" id="faq-question-1752158686829"><strong class="schema-faq-question">When should I pray the Angelus?</strong> <p class="schema-faq-answer">Traditionally, the Angelus is prayed three times daily: at 6:00 am, noon, and 6:00 pm. However, you can adapt these times to fit your schedule. The important thing is creating a regular rhythm of prayer throughout your day.</p> </div> <div class="schema-faq-section" id="faq-question-1752158704687"><strong class="schema-faq-question">Is the Angelus only for Catholics?</strong> <p class="schema-faq-answer">While the Angelus is a Catholic tradition, anyone drawn to this beautiful prayer is welcome to pray it. It centers on the Incarnation—God becoming human in Jesus—which is central to Christian faith across denominations.</p> </div> <div class="schema-faq-section" id="faq-question-1752158752082"><strong class="schema-faq-question">Do I need to memorize the Angelus?</strong> <p class="schema-faq-answer">While memorization can make the prayer more accessible throughout your day, it's perfectly fine to use a prayer card, book, or the Hallow app. You'll probably find that you will have it memorized before long.</p> </div> <div class="schema-faq-section" id="faq-question-1752158773497"><strong class="schema-faq-question">Should I stand or kneel for the Angelus?</strong> <p class="schema-faq-answer">Traditionally, the Angelus is prayed standing, except for the final prayer which is sometimes prayed kneeling (particularly on Fridays). However, the posture is less important than the disposition of your heart.</p> </div> <div class="schema-faq-section" id="faq-question-1752160123766"><strong class="schema-faq-question">Are there seasons for the Angelus?</strong> <p class="schema-faq-answer">You can pray the Angelus whenever! However,during Easter season (from Easter Sunday through Pentecost), <a href="https://www.vaticannews.va/en/pope/news/2025-06/pope-leo-xiv-pentecost-regina-caeli-reconciliation.html">Catholic tradition substitutes</a> the Angelus with the Regina Caeli ("Queen of Heaven"), a prayer that celebrates Christ's resurrection and Mary's joy.</p> </div> </div> <!-- /wp:yoast/faq-block --> <!-- wp:heading {"className":""} --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-more-resources">More Resources</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:list {"className":""} --> <ul class="wp-block-list"><!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="https://hallow.com/blog/how-to-pray-the-rosary/">How to pray the rosary</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="https://hallow.com/blog/how-to-pray-franciscan-crown-rosary/">How to pray the Franciscan Crown rosary</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="https://hallow.com/blog/litany-of-the-blessed-virgin-mary-litany-of-loreto/">How to pray the Litany of Loreto</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --></ul> <!-- /wp:list --> [post_title] => Angelus Prayer: How to Pray [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => closed [ping_status] => closed [post_password] => [post_name] => angelus-prayer-how-to-pray [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2025-07-10 19:21:19 [post_modified_gmt] => 2025-07-10 19:21:19 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://hallow.com/?p=89237 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw )

WP_Post Object ( [ID] => 89152 [post_author] => 32 [post_date] => 2025-07-09 16:20:59 [post_date_gmt] => 2025-07-09 16:20:59 [post_content] => <!-- wp:heading {"className":""} --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-the-our-lady-of-mount-carmel-novena-overview">The Our Lady of Mount Carmel Novena Overview</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">The Our Lady of Mount Carmel Novena offers a beautiful opportunity to deepen your relationship with Mary, who always leads us closer to her Son. This nine-day devotion provides a structured yet heartfelt way to bring your intentions before our Blessed Mother.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Our Lady of Mount Carmel has a special place in Catholic devotion, representing Mary's protection and intercession. Devotion to Our Lady of Mt. Carmel is popular across the world but is <a href="https://trends.google.com/trends/explore?date=all&amp;q=%2Fm%2F06jnqk&amp;hl=en">especially strong</a> in the countries of Colombia, Spain, and Panama--where fishermen <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MiC7F3ObYUM">hold an annual procession</a> and celebration honoring Our Lady of Mt. Carmel as the patron of fishermen, sailors and sea merchants.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Today, many schools and churches also count Our Lady of Mount Carmel as their patron.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">The brown scapular associated with this devotion has been a source of comfort for countless Catholics throughout the centuries, reminding us of Mary's promise of protection. Outside of a cross, crucifix or rosary beads, this sacramental is perhaps one of the most widely recognized symbols worn by Catholics in the world.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Learn more about Our Lady of Mount Carmel and pray a novena to her below.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:quote {"className":""} --> <blockquote class="wp-block-quote"><!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">The early hermits of Mount Carmel retained the memory of that holy place, and even if exiled and distanced from it constantly kept their gaze fixed on the glory of God. - <a href="https://www.vatican.va/content/francesco/en/messages/pont-messages/2013/documents/papa-francesco_20130822_ordine-carmelitano.html">Pope Francis</a></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --></blockquote> <!-- /wp:quote --> <!-- wp:buttons {"layout":{"type":"flex","justifyContent":"center"}} --> <div class="wp-block-buttons"><!-- wp:button --> <div class="wp-block-button"><a class="wp-block-button__link wp-element-button" href="https://hallow.app.link/rhn62MJimUb">Try Hallow for Free</a></div> <!-- /wp:button --></div> <!-- /wp:buttons --> <!-- wp:heading {"className":""} --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">The History of Our Lady of Mount Carmel</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">The Carmelite Order traces its origins to Mount Carmel in the Holy Land, where hermits gathered to pray in the spirit of the prophet Elijah. </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">According to tradition, Our Lady appeared to <a href="https://followingthetruth.com/why-should-i-wear-a-scapular/">St. Simon Stock</a>, a Carmelite, on July 16, 1251, presenting him with the brown scapular and promising that whoever died wearing it would not suffer eternal fire.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:quote {"className":""} --> <blockquote class="wp-block-quote"><!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">The first Carmelites went to Mount Carmel because they believed in the love of God, who so loved the world that he gave his Only-Begotten Son - <a href="https://www.vatican.va/content/benedict-xvi/en/letters/2007/documents/hf_ben-xvi_let_20070814_ordine-carmelo.html">Pope Benedict XVI</a></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --></blockquote> <!-- /wp:quote --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Carmelites "are committed to live "in the footsteps of Jesus Christ" with the same intimate and deep feelings which were Mary's," <a href="https://www.carmelites.org.au/about-the-carmelites/history-of-the-carmelite-order#:~:text=Successive%20approvals%20of%20this%20formula%20of%20life,a%20Rule%20by%20Innocent%20IV%20in%201247.&amp;text=At%20the%20dawn%20of%20the%20French%20Revolution%2C,world%20with%2054%20Provinces%20and%2013%2C000%20religious.">according to the Carmelites of Australia &amp; Timor-Leste</a>. The first Carmelites on Mount Carmel <a href="https://x.com/CarmelitesOCD/status/1942585611111571693">referred to Mary</a> as "Lady of the Place."</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">This powerful devotion reminds us of Mary's maternal protection and her desire to help us reach Heaven. The feast of Our Lady of Mount Carmel is celebrated on July 16th, though you can pray this novena at any time you feel called.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:yoast/how-to-block {"hasDuration":true,"minutes":"15","jsonDescription":"How to Pray the Novena to Our Lady of Mount Carmel.","steps":[{"id":"how-to-step-1752000017473","name":["Begin with the Sign of the Cross"],"text":["\u0022In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.\u0022"],"jsonName":"Begin with the Sign of the Cross","jsonText":"\u0022In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.\u0022"},{"id":"how-to-step-1752000056047","name":["Opening Prayer for Our Lady of Mount Carmel's Intercession"],"text":["\u0022O Beautiful Flower of Carmel, most fruitful vine, splendor of Heaven, Holy and singular, who brought forth the Son of God, still ever remaining a Pure Virgin, assist me in this necessity. O Star of the Sea, help and protect me! Show me that you are my Mother.\u0022"],"jsonName":"Opening Prayer for Our Lady of Mount Carmel's Intercession","jsonText":"\u0022O Beautiful Flower of Carmel, most fruitful vine, splendor of Heaven, Holy and singular, who brought forth the Son of God, still ever remaining a Pure Virgin, assist me in this necessity. O Star of the Sea, help and protect me! Show me that you are my Mother.\u0022"},{"id":"how-to-step-1752004636688","name":["Offer your personal intention for the novena"],"text":["\u0022Our Lady of Mount Carmel, pray for me, and for my special intention today: (share personal intention)"],"jsonName":"Offer your personal intention for the novena","jsonText":"\u0022Our Lady of Mount Carmel, pray for me, and for my special intention today: (share personal intention)"},{"id":"how-to-step-1752004725618","name":["Pray the Our Father"],"text":["Pray the ",{"type":"a","props":{"href":"https://hallow.com/blog/how-to-pray-our-father/","children":["Lord's Prayer"]}}," one time."],"jsonName":"Pray the Our Father","jsonText":"Pray the \u003ca href=\u0022https://hallow.com/blog/how-to-pray-our-father/\u0022\u003eLord's Prayer\u003c/a\u003e one time."},{"id":"how-to-step-1752004752288","name":["Pray the Hail Mary"],"text":["Pray the ",{"type":"a","props":{"href":"https://hallow.com/blog/how-to-pray-the-hail-mary/","children":["Hail Mary"]}}," one time."],"jsonName":"Pray the Hail Mary","jsonText":"Pray the \u003ca href=\u0022https://hallow.com/blog/how-to-pray-the-hail-mary/\u0022\u003eHail Mary\u003c/a\u003e one time."},{"id":"how-to-step-1752004758938","name":["Recite the Glory Be"],"text":["\u0022Glory 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.\u0022"],"jsonName":"Recite the Glory Be","jsonText":"\u0022Glory 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.\u0022"},{"id":"how-to-step-1752004938731","name":["Final Prayer and Sign of the Cross"],"text":["\u0022Our Lady of Mount Carmel, pray for us! In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.\u0022"],"jsonName":"Final Prayer and Sign of the Cross","jsonText":"\u0022Our Lady of Mount Carmel, pray for us! In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.\u0022"}],"defaultDurationText":"Time needed:"} --> <div class="schema-how-to wp-block-yoast-how-to-block"><p class="schema-how-to-total-time"><span class="schema-how-to-duration-time-text">Time needed: </span>15 minutes. </p><p class="schema-how-to-description">How to Pray the Novena to Our Lady of Mount Carmel.</p> <ol class="schema-how-to-steps"><li class="schema-how-to-step" id="how-to-step-1752000017473"><strong class="schema-how-to-step-name">Begin with the Sign of the Cross</strong> <p class="schema-how-to-step-text">"In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen."</p> </li><li class="schema-how-to-step" id="how-to-step-1752000056047"><strong class="schema-how-to-step-name">Opening Prayer for Our Lady of Mount Carmel's Intercession</strong> <p class="schema-how-to-step-text">"O Beautiful Flower of Carmel, most fruitful vine, splendor of Heaven, Holy and singular, who brought forth the Son of God, still ever remaining a Pure Virgin, assist me in this necessity. O Star of the Sea, help and protect me! Show me that you are my Mother."</p> </li><li class="schema-how-to-step" id="how-to-step-1752004636688"><strong class="schema-how-to-step-name">Offer your personal intention for the novena</strong> <p class="schema-how-to-step-text">"Our Lady of Mount Carmel, pray for me, and for my special intention today: (share personal intention)</p> </li><li class="schema-how-to-step" id="how-to-step-1752004725618"><strong class="schema-how-to-step-name">Pray the Our Father</strong> <p class="schema-how-to-step-text">Pray the <a href="https://hallow.com/blog/how-to-pray-our-father/">Lord's Prayer</a> one time.</p> </li><li class="schema-how-to-step" id="how-to-step-1752004752288"><strong class="schema-how-to-step-name">Pray the Hail Mary</strong> <p class="schema-how-to-step-text">Pray the <a href="https://hallow.com/blog/how-to-pray-the-hail-mary/">Hail Mary</a> one time.</p> </li><li class="schema-how-to-step" id="how-to-step-1752004758938"><strong class="schema-how-to-step-name">Recite the Glory Be</strong> <p class="schema-how-to-step-text">"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."</p> </li><li class="schema-how-to-step" id="how-to-step-1752004938731"><strong class="schema-how-to-step-name">Final Prayer and Sign of the Cross</strong> <p class="schema-how-to-step-text">"Our Lady of Mount Carmel, pray for us! In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen."</p> </li></ol></div> <!-- /wp:yoast/how-to-block --> <!-- wp:heading {"className":""} --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-daily-themes-for-our-lady-of-mt-carmel-novena">Daily Themes for Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Novena</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">While you can offer up your special intentions with the novena to Our Lady of Mount Carmel, consider these more universal intentions, inspired by <a href="https://www.mcacubs.com/student-life/spirituality/novena-to-our-lady-of-mount-carmel">Mt. Carmel Academy</a> in New Orleans:</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:list {"className":""} --> <ul class="wp-block-list"><!-- wp:list-item --> <li><strong>Day 1:</strong> For peace between nations and neighbors</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><strong>Day 2:</strong> For those struggling with disaease and illness</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><strong>Day 3:</strong> For all who have died</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><strong>Day 4:</strong> For all experiencing hardship and difficulty</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><strong>Day 5:</strong> For all young people</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><strong>Day 6:</strong> For those no longer young</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><strong>Day 7:</strong> For family and friends</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><strong>Day 8:</strong> For those who are the face of God to those in need</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><strong>Day 9</strong>: In thanksgiving for God's love as shown to us by those around us.</li> <!-- /wp:list-item --></ul> <!-- /wp:list --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">For each day, also consider reflecting on Scripture, the writings of Carmelite saints like <a href="https://hallow.com/blog/st-teresa-of-avila-prayers-quotes-feast-day/">St. Teresa of Avila</a> or St. John of the Cross, or simply your own relationship with our Blessed Mother.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:buttons {"layout":{"type":"flex","justifyContent":"center"}} --> <div class="wp-block-buttons"><!-- wp:button --> <div class="wp-block-button"><a class="wp-block-button__link wp-element-button" href="https://hallow.app.link/rhn62MJimUb">Try Hallow for Free</a></div> <!-- /wp:button --></div> <!-- /wp:buttons --> <!-- wp:heading {"className":""} --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">The Brown Scapular Connection</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">The brown scapular is deeply connected to Our Lady of Mount Carmel. This small garment worn over the shoulders represents Mary's mantle of protection. Many Catholics choose to be invested in the brown scapular and wear it as a sign of devotion. <a href="https://www.etsy.com/market/brown_scapular">Etsy</a> has a number of small, independent shops that make and sell brown scapulars.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">If you have a brown scapular, you might hold it during your novena prayers as a tangible reminder of Mary's care. If you don't have one, that's completely fine, too.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"className":""} --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-frequently-asked-questions-about-the-our-lady-of-mount-carmel-novena">Frequently Asked Questions about the Our Lady of Mount Carmel Novena</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:yoast/faq-block {"questions":[{"id":"faq-question-1752007102861","question":["When is the best time to pray the Our Lady of Mount Carmel Novena?"],"answer":["While traditionally prayed for nine days leading up to the feast day on July 16th, you can pray this novena anytime you need Our Lady's intercession. Many people start on July 7th to finish on the eve of the feast, but you can pray it any time."],"jsonQuestion":"When is the best time to pray the Our Lady of Mount Carmel Novena?","jsonAnswer":"While traditionally prayed for nine days leading up to the feast day on July 16th, you can pray this novena anytime you need Our Lady's intercession. Many people start on July 7th to finish on the eve of the feast, but you can pray it any time."},{"id":"faq-question-1752007153076","question":["Do I need a brown scapular to pray this novena?"],"answer":[" No, a brown scapular isn't required to pray the novena. The brown scapular is a sacramental, and it places our lives under the protection of our Blessed Mother. But it is not required to pray the novena to Our Lady of Mount Carmel."],"jsonQuestion":"Do I need a brown scapular to pray this novena?","jsonAnswer":" No, a brown scapular isn't required to pray the novena. The brown scapular is a sacramental, and it places our lives under the protection of our Blessed Mother. But it is not required to pray the novena to Our Lady of Mount Carmel."},{"id":"faq-question-1752007242645","question":["How does this novena differ from other Marian novenas?"],"answer":["The Our Lady of Mount Carmel Novena specifically honors Mary under this title, which emphasizes her protection and spiritual guidance. It's especially popular among those with special closeness to the charism of the Carmelites."],"jsonQuestion":"How does this novena differ from other Marian novenas?","jsonAnswer":"The Our Lady of Mount Carmel Novena specifically honors Mary under this title, which emphasizes her protection and spiritual guidance. It's especially popular among those with special closeness to the charism of the Carmelites."}]} --> <div class="schema-faq wp-block-yoast-faq-block"><div class="schema-faq-section" id="faq-question-1752007102861"><strong class="schema-faq-question">When is the best time to pray the Our Lady of Mount Carmel Novena?</strong> <p class="schema-faq-answer">While traditionally prayed for nine days leading up to the feast day on July 16th, you can pray this novena anytime you need Our Lady's intercession. Many people start on July 7th to finish on the eve of the feast, but you can pray it any time.</p> </div> <div class="schema-faq-section" id="faq-question-1752007153076"><strong class="schema-faq-question">Do I need a brown scapular to pray this novena?</strong> <p class="schema-faq-answer"> No, a brown scapular isn't required to pray the novena. The brown scapular is a sacramental, and it places our lives under the protection of our Blessed Mother. But it is not required to pray the novena to Our Lady of Mount Carmel.</p> </div> <div class="schema-faq-section" id="faq-question-1752007242645"><strong class="schema-faq-question">How does this novena differ from other Marian novenas?</strong> <p class="schema-faq-answer">The Our Lady of Mount Carmel Novena specifically honors Mary under this title, which emphasizes her protection and spiritual guidance. It's especially popular among those with special closeness to the charism of the Carmelites.</p> </div> </div> <!-- /wp:yoast/faq-block --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class=""></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"className":""} --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-incorporating-novenas-into-your-prayer-life">Incorporating Novenas into Your Prayer Life</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">The Our Lady of Mount Carmel novena, like other novenas, can seem intimidating, because it requires committing to prayer for nine straight days. </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Hallow can help you build a habit of prayer and make it easy to pray whenever your schedule allows.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">This novena also works beautifully alongside other forms of prayer. You might consider combining it with your <a href="/blog/morning-prayer/">morning prayer</a> routine or making it part of your <a href="/blog/night-prayer-bedtime/">night prayer</a> before bed. Some folks also find it meaningful to pray this novena while meditating on the <a href="/blog/how-to-pray-the-rosary/">rosary</a>, especially the Glorious Mysteries which celebrate Mary's Assumption and Coronation.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph {"className":""} --> <p class="">Remember, prayer isn't about perfection—it's about showing up with an open heart. Even if you miss a day or your mind wanders during prayer, simply pick up where you left off. Our Lady understands the challenges of daily life and meets us exactly where we are.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading {"className":""} --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-more-prayer-resources">More Prayer Resources</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:list {"className":""} --> <ul class="wp-block-list"><!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="https://hallow.com/blog/litany-of-the-blessed-virgin-mary-litany-of-loreto/">Litany of the Blessed Virgin Mary</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="https://hallow.com/blog/feast-of-our-lady-of-guadalupe-prayers-celebrations/">Our Lady of Guadalupe</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="https://hallow.com/blog/our-lady-of-aparecida-prayers-feast-day/">Our Lady of Aparecida</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --> <!-- wp:list-item --> <li><a href="https://hallow.com/blog/our-lady-of-chiquinquira-history-feast-day-and-prayers/">Our Lady of Chiquinquira</a></li> <!-- /wp:list-item --></ul> <!-- /wp:list --> [post_title] => Our Lady of Mount Carmel Novena: How to Pray [post_excerpt] => [post_status] => publish [comment_status] => closed [ping_status] => closed [post_password] => [post_name] => how-to-pray-our-lady-of-mount-carmel-novena [to_ping] => [pinged] => [post_modified] => 2025-07-09 16:21:14 [post_modified_gmt] => 2025-07-09 16:21:14 [post_content_filtered] => [post_parent] => 0 [guid] => https://hallow.com/?p=89152 [menu_order] => 0 [post_type] => post [post_mime_type] => [comment_count] => 0 [filter] => raw )