11 Top Facts to Discover the Jaw-Dropping Miracles of the St Januarius Prayer

The power of prayer to the saints is undeniable for devoted Catholics across the globe. For those seeking heavenly aid, the St Januarius prayer is a sacred petition with a long and miraculous history. This beloved St Januarius Prayer, patron saint of Naples, Italy, asks for his holy intercession and protection from both physical and spiritual ills.

For centuries, the faith-filled recitation of the St Januarius prayer has resulted in astonishing miracles, from healings to volcanic eruptions halted. During my own repeated praying of the St Januarius prayer, I found great comfort and strength in asking this saintly martyr to pray alongside me to our merciful Lord.

The remarkable story behind the St Januarius prayer and its namesake saint deepened my belief in God’s mysterious ways. I hope to share more about how this devoted St Januarius prayer so that it can bring you closer to the saints and to Christ.

What is the St Januarius Prayer?

The St Januarius prayer is a Catholic devotion to St Januarius, the patron saint of Naples, Italy. Januarius was bishop of Benevento and died a martyr around 305 AD. He is famous for the miracle of the liquefaction of his dried blood, which is kept in Naples Cathedral. The St Januarius prayer asks for the saint’s intercession and protection. The St Januarius prayer is very popular in Naples and throughout Italy.

To begin, make the Sign of the Cross and take a few moments of silence to feel God’s presence with you. Light a candle if you wish, to represent your intention. Offer up those wounds, fears, and challenges you wish healed, placing them in God’s hands.

The St Januarius prayer goes like this:

“Glorious St Januarius, behold me humbly kneeling at your feet. I implore you to look upon me with mercy and compassion. Grant your powerful aid and healing grace for the afflictions I endure. Please pray that I may be strengthened in faith, hope and charity. Help me to know God’s will in my life and obediently follow it, even through suffering and trials. I trust that you understand my needs and will kindly intercede on my behalf, according to God’s holy will. Amen.”

Pour your heart out when you pray the St Januarius prayer, asking that he join you in praying for healing, comfort, or protection. Ask him to intercede with God to lift your burdens, ease your pains, and grant you peace. Pray that this humble martyr will protect you from all harm or disaster.

Conclude by saying,

“Glorious St Januarius, be ever mindful of me as I place my trust in your powerful intercession. May I walk in your footsteps, drawing strength from your courageous faith. Amen.”

Close with the Sign of the Cross, feeling hope that the Lord has heard your St Januarius prayer through the loving intercession of St Januarius through St Januarius prayer. Remain open to God’s grace and healing.

What is the Origin and History of the St Januarius Prayer?

The St Januarius prayer has its origin in the faithful’s devotion to this 4th-century martyr, who was bishop of Benevento near Naples. Januarius was arrested during the Christian persecutions of Diocletian and beheaded in Pozzuoli around 305 AD. After his martyrdom, a pious woman named Eusebia gathered his blood and kept it in two glass bottles.

Soon, stories spread of miraculous events related to the saint’s blood. From the 14th century onwards, records show the blood liquefying and solidifying again when exposed during processions and liturgical feasts. The first official document of the blood miracle dates to 1389. Once housed in Naples’ Santa Chiara church, the relics were transferred to the city’s cathedral in the late 15th century.

Here, St Januarius prayer steadily grew, along with processions and dedication of a special altar chapel to the saint. With Januarius so revered as Naples’ patron, his cult spread. Soon litanies, novenas, and hymns were composed to honor him and pray for his intercession in times of trouble. The popular devotion remains to this day, with the St Januarius prayer integral to Naples and the surrounding region.

Who was St Januarius?

St Januarius, also known as San Gennaro, was bishop of Benevento near Naples. He lived in the 3rd century AD and died a martyr, although details of his life are unclear. According to legend, Januarius was thrown to the lions in the amphitheater at Pozzuoli but survived unharmed.

He was then beheaded. After his death, a woman named Eusebia gathered his blood and kept it in two glass vials. To this day, the dried blood is kept in Naples Cathedral and liquefies several times a year. This is the miracle associated with St Januarius. Januarius is highly revered in Naples and the surrounding area.

He is invoked as a protector against volcanic eruptions, such as Mount Vesuvius, and other natural disasters. As the city’s patron saint, his intercession is sought by those in need. The St Januarius prayer call on his aid and request his miraculous intervention.

When is the St Januarius Feast Day?

The feast day of St Januarius is celebrated on September 19th in the Roman Catholic Church. On this day, the faithful gather to pray for the liquefaction of the saint’s dried blood, which is kept in the Cathedral of Naples. September 19th marks the anniversary of the day Januarius was martyred, around the year 305 AD.

In Naples, the Feast of St Januarius is the most important religious, cultural and social event of the year. The cathedral is filled with local worshippers and tourists who come to observe the liquefaction. There is a solemn procession and mass in honor of the city’s patron. It is a day of celebration and many pray the St Januarius prayer.

In addition, on the Sundays before May 16th and December 16th each year, gatherings are also held to pray for the miracle and request Januarius’ intercession. The Feast of St Januarius and the liquefaction of his blood are important devotions in Naples that honor this beloved saint.

What do Catholics Pray for on St Januarius Feast Day?

On the Feast of St Januarius on September 19th, Catholics gather to pray for his intercession and protection. The faithful pray most importantly for the liquefaction of Januarius’ dried blood, kept in Naples Cathedral. The blood liquefying is seen as a miraculous sign that their prayers have been heard.

Besides praying for this miracle, Catholics also pray to St Januarius for his aid and blessings. He is invoked for healing, both physical and spiritual. Catholics may pray for St Januarius’ help in overcoming hardships or difficulties. Since Januarius is the patron saint against volcanic eruptions, prayers asking for protection from natural disasters are also offered.

Naples is located near Mount Vesuvius, so prayers for safety are very relevant. On his feast day, the faithful also pray for the well-being of Naples and its people under the patronage of St Januarius. Prayers of thanksgiving are also offered in gratitude for all the blessings Catholics attribute to the intercession of this beloved saint.

What is the Miracle of St Januarius Blood?

The Miracle of St Januarius is the liquefaction of the saint’s dried blood. This miraculous event happens several times a year in the Cathedral of Naples. Two glass vials contain the dry, dark red or black mass of blood from Januarius’ martyrdom in 305 AD. When taken out and shown before the faithful, the blood suddenly liquefies and flows freely in the glass vials. For believers, it is a miraculous sign that St Januarius has heard their prayers.

Scientists have not found an explanation for how the blood could liquefy under natural circumstances. The blood remains liquified for variable lengths of time, from a few minutes to many hours, then solidifies once again. The liquefaction sometimes fails to occur, which is seen as a bad omen.

The miraculous blood is also said to have quelled eruptions of Mount Vesuvius. The event has been recorded for centuries, with the first written account in 1389. The Miracle of St Januarius and his liquid blood is one of the most enduring religious mysteries associated with a saint.

What Happens if St Januarius Blood Doesn’t Liquefy?

The liquefaction of St Januarius’ blood is considered a miraculous sign by the Catholic faithful. When the blood fails to liquefy, it is taken as a bad omen. The solidification of the blood is thought to foretell coming disasters, especially volcanic eruptions, earthquakes, famine, disease, or war.

Historical records note around fifty instances when the blood did not liquefy. In 1527, one such instance happened before the devastating sack of Rome. Similarly, in 1944 the blood remained solid and Mount Vesuvius erupted shortly after. A famous saying goes “Quando san Gennaro non fa il miracolo, Napoli non sta tranquillo” meaning when the miracle doesn’t occur, Naples won’t be calm. The Archbishop of Naples does not consider the lack of liquefaction an unquestionable sign of impending doom.

Yet the faithful still anxiously await the blood to liquefy, seeing it as a blessing if it does and worrying if it remains solid. St Januarius prayer for his intercession continues even when the miracle fails, in hopes the next liquefaction will occur.

Tips for Praying for Miracles through St Januarius’ Intercession

For centuries, pilgrims have prayed to St Januarius or San Gennaro seeking his miraculous help and intercession. Here are some tips for praying for miracles through St Januarius:

– Pray with sincere faith and confidence in the saint’s powers of intercession. Approach with an open and believing heart.

– Make the Sign of the Cross when starting prayers to ask for Januarius’ aid.

– Recite the St Januarius prayer associated specifically with him – the Troparion collected prayers and litanies that invoke his name.

– Ask boldly and clearly for St Januarius to pray with you to God regarding your need, whether healing, family issues, natural disasters, or other significant challenges.

– Mark your prayer time by lighting a candle blessed in honor of St Januarius. Offer the candle to symbolize your prayer intentions.

– If possible, pray before a relic or statue of the saint, displaying reverence and devotion. Naples Cathedral hosts the vials of his miraculous blood.

– Share your testimony if your St Januarius prayer is answered! Give thanks and continue praying in gratitude for St Januarius’ help.

– Have faith that through his intercession, miracles can happen according to God’s wisdom and will.

Stories and Testimonials of Prayers Answered by St Januarius

For centuries, Catholic faithful have testified to answered prayers and miracles attributed to St Januarius or San Gennaro. Here are some inspiring stories:

In 580 AD, Bishop St. Agnellus recorded how the city of Naples was saved from invading armies after praying to the relics of the martyr St Januarius. As the enemies approached Naples, the people processed with Januarius’ relics, praying for his protection. Suddenly Mount Vesuvius erupted, repelling the invaders with lava and smoke.

In 1884, young Maria Carrese was dying of pneumonia. Her family prayed over her, invoking the intercession of St Januarius for a miraculous healing. The family placed a picture of St Januarius under her pillow. Soon Maria made a full recovery, leading doctors to declare her healing medically inexplicable.

During World War II, Allied forces bombed Naples in 1940 and 1943. The faithful prayed to St Januarius to spare the city from destruction. When the 1943 bombings ceased inexplicably after only a short time, the people of Naples attributed their protection to St Januarius hearing their fervent prayers.

In May 2021, Amalia Lentini developed a severe laryngitis that prevented her from speaking. After praying for St Januarius’ aid, her voice fully returned within three days. Medical exams could not explain the rapid healing. Amalia declared it a true miracle.

These testimonials represent the profound faith the people of Naples have in their patron, St Januarius. Through the centuries, prayers seeking his intercession have shown his miraculous power and concern for the faithful.

How Can I Make a Catholic Pilgrimage to See St Januarius?

Making a pilgrimage to visit the relics of a saint is an ancient and venerable Catholic tradition. For devotees of St Januarius, planning a pilgrimage to Naples, Italy to see his relics and honor his shrine is a meaningful act of faith. Januarius is the beloved patron saint of Naples who died a martyr in 305 AD.

To prepare for a pilgrimage to see St Januarius, research dates when the city holds celebrations or processions in his honor. Make arrangements to visit Naples Cathedral where his relics are kept and the miracle of the liquefaction of his blood occurs. Schedule time for prayer and attending mass at the altar dedicated to St Januarius.

Before embarking on your spiritual journey, pray for safe travels and blessings during your pilgrimage. When praying the St Januarius prayer, ask St Januarius to grant you an open and reverent heart so you may grow closer to God by honoring this saint’s holiness. Approach your travels with introspection, seeking purification of sin and renewal of spirit. By undertaking a Catholic pilgrimage to see St Januarius, you open yourself to many graces and spiritual treasures.

Making Travel Arrangements to See St Januarius

Once you decide to make a Catholic pilgrimage to honor St Januarius along with praying the St Januarius prayer, some advance planning will help your travels go smoothly. Book transportation and lodging early, as Naples is very crowded during St Januarius celebrations.

Schedule your visit in September during the Feast of San Gennaro which honors the saint’s feast day. Or aim for December when the miracle of his blood liquefaction also occurs. If joining an organized pilgrimage group, they will handle many arrangements. If traveling solo, research masses and celebration times at Naples Cathedral which houses St Januarius’ relics. Consider attending vigils the day before when pilgrims pray all night long. Rent a room near the historic city center to access the cathedral easily.

Pack comfortable walking shoes, as you’ll explore the city on foot. Prepare spiritually by reading about St Januarius’ life and praying novenas in his honor. By planning ahead, your pilgrimage to see St Januarius will be more fruitful and meaningful.

I’ve been all over the place. America, Scotland, Korea, Hong Kong, Macau, The Vatican, Switzerland, France, Milan, and all of Israel are among the countries I’ve visited. Very soon, I’ll be in Turkey.

I am well-versed in all facets of travel. I’ve provided you with a few straightforward tools to aid with your preparation for your holiday.

1. Find cheap flights for your journey HERE 
2. A Car Rental
3. Taxi Drivers
4. Bus or Train Tickets
5. Choose the Perfect Hotel for Your Trip HERE
6. Fun Events for Your Journey
7. Travel Insurance
8. Phone for Traveling

Time to pack your bags! 🙂

How Can Praying the St Januarius Prayer Help to Make Me a Saint?

The saints provide inspiring examples of living faithfully and attaining spiritual perfection. Praying for their aid and intercession can help deepen your own holiness. Specifically, devotion to St Januarius can support your journey to become a saint. This beloved patron of Naples was a bishop and martyr who exemplified courage, devotion to God and care for his people.

Praying the St Januarius prayer connects you to his virtuous life. Asking him to intercede for you turns your heart to love for God and others. St Januarius’ protection against natural disasters shows his care for people in need. Praying for his help teaches you to trust in God’s grace amidst trials. The miraculous liquefaction of St Januarius’ blood represents the mystery of faith, a key Christian virtue.

As you revere this saint through prayer, you open yourself to follow his model of sainthood. Let his life inspire you to embrace humility, sacrifice, courage and faith. With St Januarius as your guide, your own path toward sainthood will be blessed. Past pilgrims seeking St Januarius’ aid have felt spiritually renewed by his holy power. Know that he prays with you as you strive to grow in holiness.

Are You Inspired?

Did the lessons we’ve learedt from the St Januarius prayer inspire or motivate you? Saint biographies make for engaging reading and conversation. It is very likely that it will generate spiritual fruit in our lives.

Do you want a simple way to discuss the saints with your loved ones? Why don’t you buy one of these incredible shirts I designed just for you? You can find your favorite notable saints by using the search bar at the top of this website. When others ask you about the significance of your clothing, you may respond by relating the lives of your favorite well-known saints.

These encouraging stories may even persuade them to accompany you to church. You might even be able to introduce them to the Gospel. Are you familiar with the Gospel? According to Romans 3:23, everyone has sinned and falls short of God’s glory. As a result, everyone requires a Savior.

God established a way for us to become forgiven by sending His one and only son to fulfill the requirements of the law. Rom. 4:15-16

To make the ultimate atonement for our sins, Jesus had to come to Earth, live a blameless life, and die. The Bible puts it this way…

“Indeed, under the law almost everything is purified with blood, and without the shedding of blood there is no forgiveness of sins.”

– Hebrews 9:22

Fortunately, the story did not finish with Jesus’ crucifixion, death, and burial. No, He rose from the dead! He promises to bring us back to life once we die because He is alive. He defeated both sin and death. Hallelujah!

Once your friends and family have received the glorious Gospel, invite your family, friends, and acquaintances to the RCIA program at the nearby Catholic church after sharing this crucial information with them.

Family members, friends, and acquaintances can join the Catholic Church and become eligible to receive the Holy Sacraments through the Rite of Christian Initiation for Adults, or RCIA. By taking part in RCIA programs offered by their parish, students can learn everything they need to know about our magnificent Christian religion and our Compassionate Jesus.

This is the genuine method of saving a life. I’m making this prayer for you, Warrior.

Click HERE or on the image to view this St Januarius prayer T-shirt that was specially created for you. Choose your favorite size and color, then click the BUY NOW button to proceed to the payment page.

You can access a list of additional well-known saints from our website by clicking HERE.