Novena of the Holy Nativity with Saint Charbel
A Christmas novena with Saint Charbel, drawn from the Maronite tradition, Scripture, and ancient Syriac hymns, to prepare the heart for Christ's birth.
What Is This Novena?
This novena is a way to prepare for Christmas with Saint Charbel, following the ancient prayer tradition of the Maronite Church, one of the oldest Catholic traditions in the world.
Prayed during the final days of Advent, from December 16 to Christmas Eve morning, it follows the same Scripture readings used in the Maronite Mass and leads the soul step by step toward the Birth of Christ.
It is not a sentimental Christmas devotion.
It is an invitation to pray the mystery of the Incarnation deeply, through Scripture, ancient hymns, and silence.
Why This Novena Is Different
Rather than reflections or explanations, this novena lets the prayers of the Church themselves speak.
It draws from:
Daily Advent Scripture readings
Ancient Syriac Christian hymns, close in spirit to the writings of Saint Ephrem the Syrian
The living prayer of the Maronite Catholic Church
Each day follows a simple rhythm:
Scripture
A short hymn meditation
A prayer through Saint Charbel
Familiar concluding prayers
It is designed for personal prayer, easily prayed at home, quietly or aloud.
What This Novena Helps You Pray
At its heart, this novena contemplates why Christ was born.
It presents Jesus as:
The eternal Word who became truly human
The Light that enters real darkness
The Savior who comes to free us from fear, sin, and death
The One who brings peace into concrete, ordinary lives
Christmas is celebrated not only as a feast, but as a rescue and a gift.
The Place of Saint Charbel
Saint Charbel is not the focus of the novena, but its guide.
A priest and monk known for holiness, miracles, and deep silence, Saint Charbel lived entirely centered on the Eucharist and the mystery of Christ.
He died on Christmas Eve, offering his life back to God as the Church prepared to celebrate the Birth of Jesus. In this novena, he stands as a quiet companion, pointing always to Christ.
Who This Novena Is For
This novena is especially suited for:
Catholics who love Saint Charbel and want to know his spiritual roots
Those seeking a deeper, quieter way to prepare for Christmas
Anyone drawn to ancient Christian prayer and biblical spirituality
Readers who want to move beyond surface-level Christmas devotions
No knowledge of Eastern liturgy is required.
In One Sentence
A Christmas novena with Saint Charbel, rooted in ancient Christian prayer, Scripture, and hymns, to meet Christ as light in darkness and peace for the heart.