Candlemas Novena – Purification of the Virgin Mary
The Candlemas Novena, also known as the Novena for the Purification of the Virgin Mary, is a beautiful Marian devotion prayed in preparation for the Feast of the Presentation of the Lord. This novena invites us to reflect on Mary’s humility, obedience, and purity of heart as she presented Jesus in the Temple according to the Law.
Traditionally prayed from January 24 to February 2, this novena is a powerful way to seek spiritual renewal, inner purification, and a deeper trust in God at the beginning of the year. Through Mary’s intercession, we ask for the grace to live with a pure heart and faithful obedience to God’s will.
What Is Candlemas?
Candlemas, celebrated on February 2, commemorates two important mysteries:
- The Presentation of the Lord in the Temple
- The Purification of the Virgin Mary
On this feast, Christ is revealed as the Light of the world, and candles are traditionally blessed as a sign of faith, hope, and spiritual illumination. The novena prepares our hearts to receive this light and to walk more faithfully with Christ.
Why Pray the Candlemas Novena?
This novena is especially prayed for:
- Spiritual purification and renewal
- Growth in humility and obedience
- A pure heart like that of the Blessed Virgin Mary
- Light and clarity at the beginning of the year
- Deeper devotion to Jesus and Mary
How to Pray This Novena
- Pray this novena for nine consecutive days, from January 24 to February 2.
- Pray with devotion and trust, asking Mary to intercede for your intentions.
- The prayers below are repeated each day during the novena.
Candlemas Novena Prayer
(Traditional Prayer)
Novena for Purification
January 24th to February 2nd
O Blessed Mother of God,
who went up to the Temple
according to the law with your
offering of little white doves,
pray for me that I too may keep the law
and be pure in heart like you.
Sweet Heart of Mary,
be my salvation.
Pray Five Our Fathers,
Five Hail Marys,
and Five Glory Be’s.
When Is Candlemas Celebrated?
- Feast Day: February 2
- Novena Dates: January 24 – February 2
Although traditionally prayed before Candlemas, this novena may also be prayed at any time of the year when seeking spiritual purification and renewal.
