Prayer to Saint Alphonsus Liguori for Holiness

Saint Alphonsus Liguori writing at his desk with a crucifix and Marian image, representing his devotion to Christ, moral theology, and prayer.

On August 1, we honor Saint Alphonsus Liguori — bishop, Doctor of the Church, and founder of the Redemptorists. Known for his tireless preaching, his hours spent in the confessional, and his deep devotion to Mary, he reminds us that holiness is possible in ordinary, faithful service. This prayer asks for his intercession as we seek wisdom, holiness, perseverance, and deeper trust in God’s mercy.

Who Is Saint Alphonsus Liguori?

Born near Naples in 1696, Alphonsus was a brilliant lawyer before he felt called to leave the legal profession and serve God. Ordained a priest in 1726, he devoted himself to preaching missions, hearing confessions, and caring for the poor and the spiritually neglected. In 1732, he founded the Congregation of the Most Holy Redeemer (the Redemptorists), dedicated to bringing the Gospel to those most in need of it.

Alphonsus wrote more than a hundred spiritual and theological works, including The Glories of Mary, and became known for teaching a moral theology centered on God’s mercy rather than fear. Despite suffering from severe arthritis in his later years, he remained faithful to his mission until his death in 1787 at the age of 91. He was canonized in 1839 and declared a Doctor of the Church in 1871.

He is the patron saint of confessors, moral theologians, and those who suffer from arthritis.

His writings continue to guide Catholics in living faithful lives rooted in charity, mercy, and trust in God’s grace.

When Should You Pray This Prayer?

This prayer can accompany us in many moments, especially:

On his feast day, August 1
When seeking guidance in a moment of moral discernment
When living with arthritis or chronic pain
For priests and confessors, and those preparing for Confession
Whenever we want to grow closer to Mary through his example
When seeking a deeper love for the Sacrament of Reconciliation

Powerful Prayer to Saint Alphonsus Liguori

Through the intercession of Saint Alphonsus Liguori, let us ask God for wisdom, fidelity, and the grace to follow Christ with generous hearts.

Glorious Saint Alphonsus, bishop and Doctor of the Church, devoted servant of our Lord and loving child of Mary, I invoke you as a saint in heaven.

I give myself to your protection, that you may always be my guide in the way of holiness and salvation.

I ask for this favor: (mention your request).

Saint Alphonsus, pray for me and for those I love. I beg of you, by your love for Jesus and Mary, do not abandon us in our needs. May we experience the peace and joy of your holy death. Amen.

How to Use This Prayer

This prayer can be said on its own, especially on August 1, or whenever you seek Saint Alphonsus’s intercession. Some pray it for nine consecutive days as a novena leading up to his feast. It can be accompanied by a moment of examination of conscience or a resolution to go to Confession, in the same spirit that guided his own ministry.

You may also conclude by praying one Hail Mary in honor of Saint Alphonsus’s lifelong devotion to the Blessed Virgin Mary.