Printable Saint Kateri Tekakwitha Prayer Card — Free Download

Saint Kateri Tekakwitha, known as the Lily of the Mohawks, was born in 1656 in present-day New York. She was the daughter of a Mohawk chief and a Christian mother, but tragically lost her family to smallpox at a young age. Surviving the disease, Kateri’s face was left scarred, and she was given the name ‘Tekakwitha,’ meaning ‘she who bumps into things.’ Despite her hardships, she found solace in her Christian faith. In 1676, Kateri was baptized by a Jesuit missionary, Father Jacques de Lamberville, taking the name Kateri in honor of Saint Catherine of Siena. Her conversion was met with resistance from her tribe, but she remained steadfast in her beliefs. After her baptism, Kateri fled to the Jesuit mission in Quebec, where she dedicated her life to prayer, penance, and service. She became known for her deep spirituality, often engaging in long hours of prayer and fasting. Despite facing challenges as a Native American woman in a colonial society, she exemplified a life of virtue and compassion. Kateri Tekakwitha passed away on April 17, 1680, at the young age of 24, but her legacy continues to inspire many. In 1980, she was canonized by Pope John Paul II, becoming the first Native American saint recognized by the Catholic Church.

One of the most notable miracles attributed to Kateri Tekakwitha involves the healing of a young boy with a serious illness. His mother prayed for Kateri’s intercession, and soon after, the boy made a miraculous recovery, which was deemed unexplainable by medical professionals. Another miracle occurred when a woman suffering from a debilitating condition prayed to Kateri and experienced immediate relief, allowing her to return to her daily life without pain.

Saint Kateri Tekakwitha’s influence extends to the present day, where she is celebrated as a symbol of faith and resilience among Native Americans. Her shrine in Fonda, New York, attracts pilgrims and visitors seeking to honor her memory and seek her intercession. Many Indigenous peoples view her as a bridge between their cultural heritage and Christianity, inspiring a renewed interest in their spiritual traditions.

Day 1: Begin this novena by reflecting on Kateri’s early life and her struggles as a young girl. Pray for strength in facing life’s challenges.

Day 2: Consider Kateri’s conversion and her commitment to Christ. Ask for the grace to deepen your own faith and trust in God.

Day 3: Reflect on Kateri’s dedication to prayer and penance. Pray for a more fervent prayer life and a desire for holiness.

Day 4: Think about Kateri’s love for the Eucharist. Pray for a greater appreciation of the Sacraments and the presence of Christ in your life.

Day 5: Remember Kateri’s compassion for others. Ask for the strength to serve those in need and to show kindness in your daily actions.

Day 6: Contemplate Kateri’s legacy and her role as a model for Native Americans. Pray for unity and understanding among all peoples.

Day 7: Reflect on Kateri’s courage in the face of adversity. Ask for the bravery to stand firm in your beliefs.

Day 8: Consider the miracles attributed to Kateri. Pray for faith in God’s power to heal and transform lives.

Day 9: As we conclude this novena, let us pray for the grace to embody the virtues of Kateri. May her intercession guide us to live as true disciples of Christ. Amen.