1. St. Jude Novena 2. St. Joseph Novena 3. St. Rita Novena 4. Holy Spirit Novena 5. St. Anthony Novena 6. Sacred Heart Novena 7. Divine Mercy Novena 8. St. Therese Novena 9. Miraculous Medal 10. St. Benedict Novena 11. St. Peregrine Novena 12. Our Lady of Lourdes

St. Thomas Becket Novena | Traditional Catholic Prayer for Courage and Faith

About St. Thomas Becket

St. Thomas Becket (c. 1118–1170), also known as St. Thomas of Canterbury, was the Archbishop of Canterbury and one of the most famous martyrs in the history of the Catholic Church. Before becoming archbishop, he served as Lord Chancellor and was a close friend of King Henry II of England.

After his appointment as Archbishop of Canterbury in 1162, Thomas underwent a profound spiritual transformation. He dedicated himself completely to God and became a fearless defender of the Church’s freedom and the rights of the clergy. His refusal to allow the king to interfere in Church matters led to years of conflict.

On December 29, 1170, four knights acting in support of King Henry II entered Canterbury Cathedral and murdered Archbishop Thomas while he was preparing for evening prayer. His martyrdom shocked Europe, and countless pilgrims soon visited his tomb, where many miracles were reported. Pope Alexander III canonized him in 1173.

Today, St. Thomas Becket is remembered as a courageous shepherd who remained faithful to Christ and His Church, even at the cost of his life. His witness continues to inspire Catholics to stand firmly for truth, justice, and religious freedom.

Feast Day: December 29

Why Pray the St. Thomas Becket Novena?

Catholics pray the St. Thomas Becket Novena to ask for:

Courage to defend the Catholic faith
Strength during persecution or opposition
Protection of the Church
Wisdom for bishops, priests, and Church leaders
Fidelity to God’s truth
Perseverance during trials
Special intentions and personal petitions

Who was St. Thomas Becket?

St. Thomas Becket was the Archbishop of Canterbury in the 12th century. He courageously defended the freedom of the Church against interference from King Henry II and was martyred for his faith.

Why is St. Thomas Becket a saint?

He was canonized because of his holy life, courageous defense of the Church, and martyrdom. He willingly gave his life rather than compromise the rights of the Church.

When is St. Thomas Becket’s feast day?

The Catholic Church celebrates the Feast of St. Thomas Becket each year on December 29.

What is St. Thomas Becket the patron saint of?

St. Thomas Becket is the patron saint of secular clergy. He is also invoked by those seeking courage, integrity, and perseverance in defending truth and justice.

What do people pray for in the St. Thomas Becket Novena?

People pray for courage to remain faithful, strength during persecution, protection of the Church, wisdom for Church leaders, and the grace to stand firmly for what is right.

When should I pray the St. Thomas Becket Novena?

The novena may be prayed at any time of the year. Many Catholics begin it on December 20, concluding on December 28, the day before his feast, while others pray it whenever they seek his powerful intercession.

How did St. Thomas Becket die?

St. Thomas Becket was martyred inside Canterbury Cathedral on December 29, 1170. He was killed by four knights after years of conflict over the independence of the Church from the English crown.

What can we learn from St. Thomas Becket?

St. Thomas Becket teaches us to place God above earthly power, defend the truth with courage, remain faithful to our conscience, and trust God even in times of suffering and persecution.

Novena Begins:	December 20
Feast Day:	December 29

Day 1 – St. Thomas Becket Novena

Let us begin, in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.

O God, for the sake of whose Church the glorious Bishop St. Thomas Becket fell by the sword of ungodly men, grant, we beseech You, that all who implore his aid may obtain the good fruit of their petitions.

Through our Lord Jesus Christ, Your Son, who lives and reigns with You in the unity of the Holy Spirit, God, forever and ever. Amen.

(Mention your request here…)

St. Thomas Becket, pray for us.