So many times we pray for a close friend of family member, but aren't sure how best to continue to encourage them in their situation. Novena Cards were developed as a way to share our intentions with them, letting them know that we have asked the saints to pray for them. Each time they return to this card, it serves as a tangible reminder that an "all star in heaven" is praying for them and that they are loved.

Not familiar with novenas? Novenas, prayed over nine days, are a special way to focus our prayers, especially for our loved ones. This ancient tradition started with Our Lady and the apostles when they "joined together constantly in prayer" for nine days between the Ascension and Pentecost (Acts 1:14). Novenas are usually associated with a specific devotion, saint or liturgical celebration and are prayed for a specific intention or to ask God for a special grace.