The Power of Child‑like Trust
Devotion to the Infant Jesus of Prague centres on two gospel truths: the Incarnation and spiritual childhood. By contemplating the Child, we grasp that Almighty God once relied on the arms of Mary and Joseph. He invites us to rely on Him with equal confidence.
In the words of Saint Thérèse of Lisieux, “To be little is to recognize one’s nothingness, to expect everything from the good God.” This spirituality aligns perfectly with the Infant Jesus of Prague, who, though all-powerful, chose the fragility of a child to draw near to us. Through this devotion, the faithful are reminded that even in weakness and simplicity, God’s grace is sufficient.
How to Pray the Nine‑Day Novena
- Begin with the Sign of the Cross and an act of contrition.
- Recite the Novena Prayer: “O Jesus, Who hast said, ask and you shall receive…” (full text below).
- Meditate on a mystery of Our Lord’s childhood (Annunciation, Nativity, Epiphany…).
- Conclude with the Glory Be and invoke Mary, Help of Christians.
The Church grants a plenary indulgence, under the usual conditions, when the Novena is prayed publicly. It is traditionally prayed for nine consecutive days, but may also be said perpetually.
Enthronement of the Infant Jesus at Home
Many families create a sacred space in their homes where a statue or image of the Infant Jesus is placed, often crowned with a wreath or small crown. This enthronement symbolizes the acceptance of Christ’s reign in the home and family life. It is customary to light a candle and pray together as a family, especially on Sundays or feast days. This practice helps instill faith in children and sanctifies the domestic environment.
The Chaplet
The Chaplet consists of 12 beads in honour of the Holy Childhood. On each bead say: “And the Word was made flesh and dwelt among us.” On the medal pray: “Infant Jesus, bless and protect us!” The Chaplet may be prayed as a private devotion or in a group, and is often accompanied by singing or hymns to the Holy Child.
Devotional Practices Around the World
In the Philippines, Spain, Poland, Brazil and many other countries, devotion to the Infant Jesus includes special processions, feast day Masses, and community novenas. In Mexico, the Niño Dios is lovingly dressed each year on Candlemas, while in the Czech Republic, a grand celebration takes place in January at the Church of Our Lady of Victory. These expressions of love demonstrate the cultural richness and global unity fostered by this devotion.
Novena Prayer (Full Text)
O Jesus, Who hast said, Ask and you shall receive, seek and you shall find, knock and it shall be opened to you,
through the intercession of Mary, Thy most holy Mother, I knock, I seek, I ask that my prayer be granted… (state request) … Divine Infant, hear my prayer and grant my petition.