About the Immaculate Conception Novena
The Immaculate Conception is the dogma that the Virgin Mary, from the first moment of her existence, was preserved by God from original sin. This is not the same as the Virgin Birth — it refers to Mary's own conception, not the conception of Jesus.
The dogma was solemnly defined by Pope Pius IX on December 8, 1854. Just four years later, on March 25, 1858, Our Lady confirmed the dogma herself when she appeared to Saint Bernadette at Lourdes and said: "I am the Immaculate Conception."
December 8 falls in Advent — the season of preparation for the birth of Jesus. The Immaculate Conception reminds us that God prepared Mary perfectly from the beginning to be the Mother of His Son. It is a Holy Day of Obligation throughout the Catholic world.
The miraculous medal, given by Our Lady to Saint Catherine Labouré in 1830, bears the image of the Immaculate Conception and has been associated with countless miracles since.
Get a reminder to start this novena on 11/29/2026 — 9 days before the feast on December 8
🙏 The Immaculate Conception Novena Prayer
O God, who by the Immaculate Conception of the Blessed Virgin Mary, didst prepare a worthy dwelling place for Thy Son, we beseech Thee that, as by the foreseen death of this, Thy Son, Thou didst preserve Her from all stain; so too Thou wouldst permit us, purified through Her intercession, to come unto Thee. Through the same Lord Jesus Christ, Thy Son, who liveth and reigneth with Thee in the unity of the Holy Spirit, God, world without end. Amen.
O Mary, conceived without sin, pray for us who have recourse to thee.
Pray this prayer once each day for nine consecutive days, beginning on November 29.
9-Day Novena Schedule
Pray the novena prayer above once each day. Use this schedule to guide your meditation:
If you miss a day, simply continue. A novena is an act of love, not a legal contract. Our Lady values your faithful return above mechanical perfection.