54 Day Rosary Novena

On March 3, 1884, Our Lady of Pompeii appeared before the gravely ill daughter of an Italian military officer. Through her, Our Lady gave the world the miraculous devotion of the 54 day Rosary Novena. For over a year, Fortuna Agrelli had been in great distress and near death. So serious was her illness that it was considered hopeless by the most celebrated physicians. In desperation, on February 16th, the afflicted girl and her family began a novena of Rosaries.

One evening two weeks later, the Queen of the Holy Rosary appeared to Fortuna. Sitting upon a high throne, surrounded by luminous figures, Our Lady was holding the Divine Child on her lap and a Rosary in her hand. Both were arrayed in golden garments and were accompanied by Saint Dominic and Saint Catherine of Siena.

Our Lady said, "Child, your faith has pleased me. Whoever desires to obtain favours from me should make three Novenas of the prayers of the Rosary, and three Novenas in thanksgiving."

Obedient to Our Lady's invitation, Fortuna and her family completed the Novenas, 3 nine day novenas, 27 days each. The young girl was restored to perfect health and her family showered with many blessings.

The Devotion of the Miraculous Rosary Novena
To complete one Novena, pray the rosary for 27 days of Petition to obtain the favor and 27 days in Thanksgiving. This makes a total of 54 days. Whether the prayer intention has been received or not after the first 27 days, pray the rosary for 27 days in Thanksgiving.

On September 17th, I began a 54 day Rosary Novena for a number of special intentions. When I began, I did not count out the days. To my surprise and delight, Day 27 was October 13th, the day of the last apparition to the children in Fatima, where the Blessed Mother said to the children,

"I am the Lady of the Rosary."

When I counted out the second 27 days, my 54 day Rosary Novena ended today. November 9th is a very special day, the birthday of Lily Grace. She is the precious baby who is the reason this baby prayer ministry began. So many prayers were offered for her! Today she is a beautiful, little 4 year old! I think the significance of the dates of my Rosary Novena were a little sign from Our Lady of the Rosary, to whom this baby prayer ministry is dedicated.