Saints Louis and Zelie Martin were the parents of "The Little Flower" or St Therese, and they were the first married couple to be canonized together in history. My good friend, Patrick O'Hearn reminded me of their feast day which is fast approaching, July 12th, which was actually their wedding anniversary. Louis, a watchmaker and Zelie, a lacemaker were married for 19 year until breast cancer claimed the life of Zelie. They are the patron saints of marriage, parenting, mental illness, illness and widowers.
In the lead-up to this auspicious feast, there is a novena which you may like to offer. I am offering it for a close friend who is discerning marriage. Feel free to leave a comment with your prayer intention, that others may see and pray in union with you. We start July 3rd, and pray the prayer below everyday until July 11th, the eve of the feast!
The Novena to Saints Louis and Zelie
St Louis Martin, you endured great sufferings in your life, amid the even greater joys of serving God in your blessed family.
You instructed your daughters in the Faith and then generously gave them to God in religious life, holding nothing back from Him, and He rewarded you with the crown of sanctity.
St Zelie Guerin Martin, you felt the tremendous suffering of having four children die at a young age, and then yourself faced death while still having young children.
Yet you endured to the end with faith and perseverance, uniting your sufferings with those of Our Lord on the Cross, obtaining for your family, and subsequently for us, many graces.
Pray for us, Saints Louis and Zelie Martin, especially in the intention we have for this novena (mention your request here…).
Amen.
Our Father
Hail Mary
Glory Be
Saints Louis and Zelie Martin, pray for us!