Expeditus was a Roman centurion in Armenia who was martyred on April 19, 303, for converting to Christianity. When Expeditus decided to convert, the Devil took the form of a raven and tried to convince him to hold off until the next day. Expeditus declared, "I'll be a Christian today!" and stomped on the raven. Icons of Saint Expeditus picture him with a cross with the word "Hodie" ("Today") in his right hand, while under his right foot, a raven says, "Cras" ("Tomorrow").
In this novena, we ask Saint Expeditus to intercede for us for all the graces that we need in our life.
On the first day of the Novena to Saint Expeditus, we pray for the gift of faith.
On the second day of the Novena to Saint Expeditus, we pray for the gift of hope for ourself and for those who have trouble believing.
On the third day of the Novena to Saint Expeditus, we pray that we might be freed from worldly cares, so that we can love God more fully.
On the fourth day of the Novena to Saint Expeditus, we pray for the strength to carry the cross of our passions.
On the fifth day of the Novena to Saint Expeditus, we pray for the grace of detachment.
On the sixth day of the Novena to Saint Expeditus, we pray for freedom from anger.
On the seventh day of the Novena to Saint Expeditus, we pray for the grace to pray well.
On the eighth day of the Novena to Saint Expeditus, we pray for purity of heart.
On the ninth day of the Novena to Saint Expeditus, we pray for the grace of final perseverance.
