Today is the first day of our novena to St. Francis for divorced Catholics—nine days of prayer leading to his feast on October 4th.
Before the prayer, I invite you to reflect briefly on the life of St. Francis. His story holds powerful messages for you in this difficult time.
What divorce takes—and what it can't
One of the hardest parts of going through a divorce is losing things that matter so much: your intact family, your home, your possessions, your financial security. Those losses touch your identity. You might find yourself asking, Who am I anymore?
Francis chose the path of poverty. He willingly left his former life behind. You didn't choose to be stripped of everything—yet St. Francis still speaks directly to your losses.
He reminds us that our truest identity isn't found in being married, in being a homeowner, or in financial stability. Our deepest identity is found in being a child of God.
Divorce can take an enormous amount from you. It cannot take away your relationship with God. And sometimes, when everything else is being stripped away, Jesus is the one thing you can finally see clearly.
Today's intentions
As you pray today, ask God for your special intentions. Also ask Him to bring peace to your heart—and for the grace to bear your suffering with love.
Novena prayer to St. Francis
In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.
St. Francis, God called you to a life of poverty and simplicity so that you might know Him intimately and share His peace—the peace that surpasses all understanding. You left everything behind and followed Him. My divorce causes me to feel connected to you as I have been stripped of relationships, belongings, self-worth, and understanding. I pray to you now to petition God on my behalf that He will grant me the grace I need to be a faithful follower during this very difficult time. I believe in His goodness and I need Him now more than ever. Help me to stand firmly on my faith and trust in Him. Most of all, I ask for peace in my heart and for this special intention. I pray these things in Jesus' name. Amen.
Our Father…
Hail Mary…
Glory Be…
St. Francis, patron of peace and families, pray for us.
Come back tomorrow
Thank you for praying. Join me tomorrow for Day 2 of the Novena to St. Francis for Divorced Catholics.
You are a child of God. That cannot be taken from you.
Taking the next step
If you're looking for more support as a divorced or separated Catholic, explore the Journey of Hope online subscriptions. The program offers Catholic teaching, encouragement, and practical support from the privacy of your own home.
Watch the video: Novena to St. Francis for Divorced Catholics — Day 1