Novena to St. Teresa of Kolkata begins today

August 27, 2026: As the Church prepares to celebrate the feast of St. Teresa of Kolkata on September 5, the faithful are invited to begin a nine-day journey of prayer today, drawing inspiration from the saint whose life turned love for Christ into compassionate service to the poorest and most forgotten. The Novena offers an opportunity to pause, pray and rediscover the call to see Christ in those who suffer and respond with love.

The Novena offers a simple but meaningful way to draw closer to Jesus by following St Teresa’s example of faith, compassion and selfless service. Each day focuses on a different dimension of her mission, encouraging the faithful not only to pray, but also to recognise Christ in those who are suffering and in need.

The first day, “Caring for the Sick, Elderly and Dying,” calls believers to see Jesus in every sick, elderly and dying person and to respond with compassionate hearts and willing hands.

The following days invite reflection on caring for the hungry, serving the poor and homeless, supporting struggling families, protecting women, children and the unborn, and growing in faith and trust in God. The final days focus on loving those who suffer and are lonely, reaching out to people on the margins, and becoming missionary witnesses of God’s love.

Throughout the Novena, the prayers encourage the faithful to imitate St. Teresa’s generous heart and allow Jesus’ love to shine through their lives. Participants can also bring their personal intentions before God and seek St Teresa’s intercession.

More than a nine-day prayer, the Novena is an invitation to let prayer change the way we see and serve others. St. Teresa’s life reminds us that even small acts of love, when offered with a sincere heart, can bring hope and dignity to another person.

As the feast of St. Teresa approaches, the faithful are encouraged to begin the Novena today, make time for prayer each day and allow her example to inspire a renewed commitment to love and serve those most in need.

Begin your Novena today and prepare your heart for the feast of St. Teresa of Kolkata on September 5.

Click here to join the Novena

By Catholic Connect Reporter