Friday 18 August 2023 marks the beginning of the Diocesan Novena to pray for the Canonisation of Blessed Dominic Barberi.

The Novena of Prayer lasts for nine days and concludes on his feast day on Saturday 26 August.

The annual Novena of Prayer for the Cause of Blessed Dominic Barberi is a moment to pause and to appreciate the work of this holy Passionist in our Archdiocese and to pray for his Canonisation.

Blessed Dominic arrived in the Archdiocese in February 1842. He spent the next seven years based at Aston Hall in Staffordshire, from where he celebrated Mass, preached Missions, heard confessions, and received many people into the Catholic Church, the most famous being St John Henry Newman in October 1845.

Blessed Dominic had a well known reputation for sanctity and holiness of life. He is also remembered for his love for the poor, and those in need of prayer and help.

In our Archdiocese his memory is held in special regard and each year we pray a Novena of Prayer asking God to grant a miracle of healing through the intercession of Blessed Dominic, which could further his cause for Canonisation.

Please pray the Novena during the nine days from August 18 until August 26. It can be prayed in the parish or at home.