The Novena in Honour of St Francis is a tradition celebrated every year from the 25th of September to the 3rd of October by the Friars of St Francis. 2026 marks the 800th year since the death of St Francis in 1226, with a Jubilee and plenary indulgence to commemorate the anniversary.

The Novena consists of 9-nights of prayer, including Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament, Benediction, Night Prayer, and Confessions throughout. Over the 9-nights, the life of this great saint, often known as ‘alter Christus’, is brought to life and told. The Novena culminates in the Transitus on the final night, involving an ancient liturgical ceremony. 

This year’s Novena will be held every night at 7.00 pm at St John the Baptist Church Bonnyrigg Heights, from the 25th of September to the 3rd of October. There will be the Solemn Mass on the the Feast of St Francis on Sunday the 4th, with the animal blessing after the 10.00 am Mass.