Preparing for Pentecost

A Novena to the Holy Spirit

Introduction

Following the Ascension of Our Lord, tradition says that the disciples gathered in the upper room together with Our Blessed Mother for the first novena, nine days of prayer in anticipation of the outpouring of the Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit was given to the disciples to empower them to ``be my witnesses... even to the ends of the earth.'' (Acts 1:8)

Today, as disciples of Jesus, we too join together in prayer for a fresh outpouring of the Holy Spirit in our Dioceses, our parishes, our faith communities, our families, and in ourselves. We need of the power of the Holy Spirit to be effective witnesses of the love of God for our world.

This novena to the Holy Spirit has been designed for either individual or communal prayer. The time commitment is not long, probably less than 15 minutes each day. The spiritual impact of serious prayer and reflection, however, is immeasurable.

When prayed in a communal setting, the reflection time after the reading of the scripture may be in silence or someone may be designated to share a brief reflection. When two or more are praying the closing prayer, The Prayer for a New Millennium, the ``chorus'' (in bold) can be said in unison, while the verses are said by a designated reader.

Suggested Opening Songs

Come Holy Spirit, Spirit of the Living God, Veni Sancte Spiritus, Envia Tu Espiritu, or any similar song invoking the Holy Spirit.

Closing Prayer:

We recommend the Prayer for a New Millennium. (See below)

First Day
Second Day
Third Day
Fourth Day
Fifth Day
Sixth Day
Seventh Day
Eighth Day
Nineth Day
Prayer for a New Millennium
Entire Novena in a single file to allow printing.

Published by The Catholic Charismatic Center, PO Box 110578, Campbell, CA 95011
Permission granted for reproduction.

Original by David Thorp, the Liaison to the Charismatic Renewal, Diocese of Boston, Massachusetts