On 29 April, the Novena to Saint Maddalena di Canossa. Nine days of prayer, reflection, and concrete gestures to prepare for her liturgical feast on 8 May, the anniversary of the foundation of the Institute of the Daughters of Charity, which took place in 1808.
Maddalena Gabriella di Canossa, born in Verona on 1 March 1774, discovered in Christ Crucified the centre of her life and mission. Her deepest conviction – “Christ is not loved because he is not known” – drove her to dedicate herself to the poorest and most abandoned, in an era marked by profound social, political, and ecclesial difficulties.
Each day of the novena is dedicated to a theme reflecting the Canossian spirituality as lived by Maddalena. Follow us on our social media channels to receive each day’s reflection, quotation, and daily resolution:
29/4 – Trust
30/4 – Joy
01/5 – Eucharist
02/5 – Mission
03/5 – Mary
04/5 – Holiness
05/5 – The Crucified
06/5 – Faith
07/5 – Apostolic Zeal
Each day offers a quotation from Saint Maddalena’s writings, a brief reflection, and a practical resolution to live: lighting a candle, performing a work of mercy, praying the Rosary, visiting a sick person, receiving the sacrament of reconciliation.
A simple yet profound journey, accessible to all, to renew our Canossian life and allow ourselves to be transformed by the same love that guided Maddalena.
Whether you are living this novena alone, with your family, or in community, you are invited to join this journey of prayer and reflection. Let the words and life of Saint Maddalena speak to your heart and renew your Canossian commitment.
Saint Maddalena, pray for us.