Mary Undoer of Knots Novena – Complete Devotional Guide

Are there knots in your life that feel impossible to untie? Many Catholics turn to Mary, Undoer of Knots—a powerful Marian devotion that has brought healing, reconciliation, and peace for more than three centuries. Although this devotion is now known worldwide, it did not begin with an apparition but through Our Lady’s quiet and loving intercession in a moment of deep family suffering.

The Origin of the Devotion

In 1615, a German nobleman named Wolfgang Langenmantel was on the verge of divorce. Desperate to save his marriage, he sought guidance from the Jesuit priest Father Jakob Rem. At each meeting, the two prayed before an image of the Blessed Virgin Mary for Wolfgang’s family.

During their final encounter, Wolfgang handed Father Rem the wedding ribbon used during his marriage ceremony—a symbol of unity that had become “knotted” by conflict and sorrow. Father Rem raised the ribbon before an image of Our Lady of the Snows and prayed:

“Mother Mary, untie the knots of this marriage.”

As they prayed, the ribbon loosened, untangled completely, and turned brilliantly white. Shortly after, Wolfgang and his wife Sophie reconciled. Inspired by this miracle, the now-famous painting of Mary Undoer of Knots was commissioned around 1700 and remains in Augsburg, Germany.

A Devotion Rooted in Early Christian Teaching

Long before the painting existed, Saint Irenaeus (2nd century) described Mary as the one who undid the “knot of Eve’s disobedience” through her perfect obedience to God. This ancient teaching beautifully reflects the heart of this devotion: Mary patiently unties the knots created by sin, fear, and human weakness.

Pope Francis and This Devotion

While studying in Germany, Pope Francis encountered the painting of Mary Undoer of Knots and began promoting the devotion throughout Argentina and around the world. He teaches that:

“All the knots of our heart, every knot of our conscience can be undone through Mary.” – Pope Francis

When to Pray This Novena

The devotion’s associated feast day is September 28, and the traditional novena is prayed from September 19–27. However, this powerful intercession is sought all year long, especially during times of:

family problems
spiritual confusion
emotional pain
anxiety or fear
relationship difficulties
financial struggles
addictions or impossible cases

Why Pray to Mary Undoer of Knots?

Just as she untied the ribbon in Wolfgang’s story, Mary brings peace to the “knots” that complicate our lives. These knots can include:

fear and anxiety
broken relationships
resentment or lack of forgiveness
chronic worry
habitual sins
decisions that feel overwhelming

Mary does not undo these knots by magic. She lovingly brings them to Jesus, who heals and restores with divine mercy.

How to Pray This Novena

This is a 9-day devotion. Each day includes:

a short meditation
a prayer asking Mary to undo your knots
your personal intention
one Hail Mary
the invocation: “Mary, Undoer of Knots, pray for me.”

Opening Prayer (Optional)

“Holy Mary, beloved Mother of God, you never abandon your children in their needs. With tender hands, you undo the knots in our lives. Intercede for me before your Son, and obtain for me the grace to trust His will. Mary, Undoer of Knots, pray for me. Amen.”

Mary Undoer of Knots Novena

Day 1 – Mary, Undoer of Knots

Meditation:
Dearest Holy Mother, you are the Undoer of Knots in the lives of your children. I place the ribbon of my life in your hands; no one can take it away from your tender care.

Prayer:
Mary, Undoer of Knots, look upon the knot that causes me so much anxiety. With your maternal hands, undo it in accordance with God’s will.