The Archdiocese of Boston is preparing for the feast day of one of the most popular saints in North America — St. Patrick — with a novena and Eucharistic adoration.

During the nine days leading up to the feast of St. Patrick, the archdiocese’s Vocation Office has organized Eucharistic adoration and prayer for vocations in 47 different parishes, religious houses, colleges and schools. Part of the prayer includes the Novena to St. Patrick. The prayer tour began March 9 and will conclude March 17.

Eucharistic adoration and prayer are being carried out in the presence of the John Paul II Monstrance. The late pope blessed six monstrances in 2004 and presented one to each continent. The monstrance is brought around each continent to promote prayer for vocations.  

Cardinal Seán O' Malley presided at the Holy Hour at the Cathedral of the Holy Cross on March 9.

The prayer tour will end at the Boston Catholic Men's and Women's Conferences on March 17 and 18.

For the schedule of prayer locations and times, go to: www.rcab.org/News/Events/070309-novena.html