help in the various needs of body and soul, is as
old as the Church. At what period, however, the custom of having
recourse to the fourteen saints called Holy Helpers originated, is
unknown. Nevertheless it is certain that each one of them was invoked
for his intercession with God since his entrance into heaven. Prayer is
the Christian's resource in every difficulty: and difficulties and
trials are never wanting on earth.

Because the needs of mankind on earth are various, the faithful selected
certain saints as intercessors in certain cases of distress, and
obtained relief; hence these saints came to be regarded as special
patrons in such trials, and were called Holy Helpers.

PRACTICE

MAKE this novena with full confidence in the power of the intercession
of the Fourteen Holy Helpers. During their earthly life they devoted
their whole energy to the spreading of God's kingdom and the relief and
succor of their fellow-men. Much more efficiently can they do so now
when they are in the enjoyment of eternal happiness, and can supplicate
for us at the very throne of God.

The saints _can_ help us through their intercession. God hears their
prayers and He wrought miracles to confirm us in this belief, even
whilst His servants sojourned here on earth. They _desire_ and are
willing to help us. St. Bernard says: "In heaven hearts do not grow
cold; they are rather rendered more affectionate and tender. By
receiving the crown of justice the saints were not hardened against the
sufferings of their brethren on earth."

Therefore, in calling on them, have full confidence in their power and
ability to come to your aid.

_Prayer_

WE BESEECH Thee, O Lord, to hear the prayer which we send up to Thee in
honor of Thy glorified servants, the Fourteen Holy Helpers: and as we
can not rely upon our own justice, grant our petition through the
intercession of those whose merits have made them especially dear to
Thee. Through Christ our Lord. Amen.

[Image: Death of the Blessed Virgin]

LITANY OF THE FOURTEEN HOLY HELPERS

LORD, have mercy on us.
Christ, have mercy on us.
Lord, have mercy on us.
Christ, hear us.
Christ, graciously hear us.
God the Father of heaven, have mercy on us.
God the Son, Redeemer of the world, have mercy on us.
God the Holy Ghost, have mercy on us.
Holy Trinity, one God, have mercy on us.
Holy Mary, queen of martyrs, pray for us.
St. Joseph, helper in all needs, pray for us.
Fo