St. Nicholas Novena – 9 Days of Prayer
Nine-day novena to the beloved bishop and wonder-worker who inspired the tradition of Christmas giving
St. Nicholas was a fourth-century bishop of Myra whose generosity became a tradition of Christmas giving. This novena honours the beloved wonder-worker and patron of children and the poor. It invites you to give quietly and to pray for those in need. Many families begin it in late November so that it ends on the eve of his feast, December 6, when children traditionally find small gifts in their shoes. It is a gentle way to bring the spirit of Advent into the home. It also fits any family wanting to do something unselfish this winter.
A novena is nine consecutive days of prayer. Begin nine days before the feast (December 6) and finish on its eve. You can pray this novena at any time of year.
Pray this novena with daily reminders in the Sacred Novenas app
Open in the app App StoreGoogle PlaySt. Nicholas Novena – prayer for all nine days
Intention: For Generosity, Children, and Care for the Poor
Dear St. Nicholas, beloved bishop and wonder-worker, you gave generously from all that you had — even in secret — because you loved God and your neighbor. Your life is a sign that holiness and joy belong together.
Great St. Nicholas, bishop of Myra and friend of all in need, I come to you with confident faith. You who rescued the innocent, provided for the poor, and cared for children — intercede for me now before the throne of God.
You gave secretly and without seeking reward. Help me to grow in the virtue of generosity — to give from my heart without counting the cost. Where I have been selfish, grant me conversion. Where I have overlooked the needs of others, open my eyes.
(Pause here to mention your intentions)
St. Nicholas, you are a sign to us that God provides for those who trust in Him. Obtain for me the grace I now request, if it is in accordance with God's holy will. And above all, help me to fix my eyes on the true gift of Christmas — Jesus Christ, who gave Himself entirely for love of us.
Our Father... Hail Mary... Glory Be...
St. Nicholas of Myra, pray for us.
Pray this prayer once a day for nine days in a row.
Traditional Catholic Devotional Prayer · Feast Day: December 6
More novenas
- St. Jude Novena
- Our Lady of Perpetual Help Novena
- St. Joseph Novena
- St. Therese Novena
- St. Anthony of Padua Novena
- St. Rita Novena
Frequently asked questions
When should I start the St. Nicholas Novena?
Begin on November 27 to end on December 5, the eve of his feast on December 6.
How do I pray the St. Nicholas Novena?
Pray the daily prayer once a day and consider a small secret act of giving each day.
Who is the St. Nicholas Novena for?
It is for children, parents, teachers and anyone who wants to practise generosity.
Pray this novena with daily reminders in the Sacred Novenas app
Open in the app App StoreGoogle Play