St. Andrew Christmas Novena, or the Christmas Novena, begins on St. Andrew’s feast, celebrated on November 30th—the day of his martyrdom—marking the threshold of what the Church later calls the season of Advent. The prayer itself has nothing to do with St. Andrew nor is it addressed to him, but starting on his feast reflects his role of leading others to Christ, connecting both the liturgical calendar and Andrew’s role in salvation history.
Andrew’s role in the Gospel aligns with the purpose of this novena. Three scenes in John reveal his generous spirit. Brother of Simon Peter and a disciple of John the Baptist, he is called the First-called—the first Apostle. Responding to John’s preaching—“I am preparing for one who is greater than myself”—Andrew eagerly anticipated the Messiah, immediately recognizing Jesus and following Him. His discipleship exemplifies watchfulness, generosity, readiness, and responsiveness—the very qualities Advent invites us to embrace. Beginning the novena on his feast provides the faithful with a spiritual rhythm of anticipation and encourages us to follow his example in preparing both ourselves and others for Christ’s coming at Christmas.
He was the first to bring others to Christ, starting with his brother Simon Peter to whom he declared, “We have found the Messiah,” and brought him to Jesus (John 1:41–42). At the feeding of the five thousand (John 6:9), Andrew identified what could be offered and brought the boy’s loaves and fishes to Jesus. He also guided others to Christ, such as the Greeks seeking Him through Philip. Similarly, this novena invites us to prepare our hearts and share God’s grace with others.
Most novenas last 9 days, but the St. Andrew Christmas Novena is an exception—prayed over 25 days, spanning the Advent season. It is piously believed that whoever recites the prayer 15 times each day (either all at once or throughout the day) from St. Andrew’s feast until Christmas Eve will receive powerful intercession. It is a prayer especially cherished by couples hoping to conceive and by anyone seeking special favours, while also being beautiful and meditative, helping us reflect on the true meaning of Christmas and prepare our hearts for Christ’s coming.
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Begin with the Sign of the Cross
In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. -
Pray the St. Andrew Christmas Novena prayer
Hail and blessed be the hour and moment in which the Son of God was born of the most pure Virgin Mary, at midnight, in Bethlehem, in the piercing cold. In that hour vouchsafe, I beseech Thee, O my God, to hear my prayer and grant my desires through the merits of Our Savior Jesus Christ, and of His blessed Mother.
Amen.
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Offer your intentions
- Conclude with the Sign of the Cross
In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit.
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