Mary Virginia Merrick Novena
The Milwaukee Chapter of the Christ Child Society is excited to begin a special novena to honor our founder, Mary Virginia Merrick, starting on January 10 – the date that will be her Feast Day if she is canonized. A novena is a nine-day period of prayer and reflection, traditionally used to seek God’s grace and deepen our spiritual connection.
We invite you to join us using this guide or praying each day following our social media posts. If you would like, consider gathering with family and friends, or even involving your parish or church to pray together during these nine days.
Each day, please:
- Read and reflect on the Bible readings
- Follow the additional instructions provided for prayer and reflection.
- Write down your thoughts and spiritual reflections in a journal or post your comments online.
Born in 1866 and paralyzed at 14, Mary Virginia could have allowed suffering to define her story. Instead, she allowed faith to transform it. From her bed, she built a movement of love that still touches the lives of children and families across the country today. Her simple yet powerful motto, “Nothing is ever too much to do for a child,” continues to guide our mission and remind us that every act of kindness – no matter how small – is sacred when done for the love of the Christ Child.
Throughout the next nine days, we’ll share a daily reflection question inspired by Miss Mary’s faith, courage, and compassion. Each post is an invitation to pause, pray and ask: How can I live out her spirit of joyful service in my own life?
We would love to see your responses on our Facebook page.