Whether you’re Catholic or just open to praying for the good of others, this is a simple, meaningful nine-day practice.
Adele Brise (1831–1896) was a Belgian immigrant who settled with her family near present-day Champion, Wisconsin. Partially blind after a childhood accident, she earned a reputation for cheerfulness and steady faith. In October 1859 she reported an encounter with Mary, who asked her to “gather the children and teach them what they should know for salvation.”
Adele spent the rest of her life doing exactly that — walking farm roads to catechize kids, founding a school, and encouraging regular reception of the sacraments.
October 9 is the established anniversary day of the Blessed Virgin Mary’s second and third apparitions to Adele, and the date of the Solemnity of Our Lady of Champion.
The site of her encounter with Mary is now the National Shrine of Our Lady of Champion — the first and only Marian apparition in the United States judged “worthy of belief” by the Catholic Church.
The shrine’s story is intertwined with local history. During the 1871 Peshtigo Fire, neighbors fled to the chapel and prayed through the night; while the region burned, the shrine grounds were spared. Ever since, pilgrims have come seeking peace, purpose, and a way to pray for one another.
That’s where the Champion Novena comes in — and it starts today, so as to conclude on the solemnity. Whether you’re Catholic or just open to praying for the good of others, this is a simple, meaningful nine-day practice rooted in Adele’s mission.
How to pray the Champion Novena (daily)
Catholics are encouraged to sign up at championshrine/novenas to receive the daily novena prayers.
State the day’s intention (below) and add your own.
Pray the “Prayer to Our Lady of Champion” (short form here).
Conclude with an Our Father, Hail Mary, and Glory Be. Catholics may also offer Holy Communion for these intentions.
As the Catechism says of the saints, they “constantly care for those whom they have left on earth” (CCC 2683) — that’s what we mean by asking Mary to pray with us.
Daily intentions
Day 1 – For the sick, especially those with eye disorders. Adele lost sight in one eye and cared deeply for the ill; pray for the sick and their caregivers.
Day 2 – For immigrants. Remember those seeking safety, work, and family stability—like Adele’s own family.
Day 3 – For the conversion of sinners. Offer prayer and, if possible, Communion for hearts to turn toward God.
Day 4 – For Catholic schools and religious education. For faithful teachers, catechists, and strong Catholic identity.
Day 5 – For students. For open minds, protected hearts, and a growing love for truth.
Day 6 – For families. For healing, unity, and homes where prayer is welcome.
Day 7 – For priests. For prayerful, generous, and missionary shepherds.
Day 8 – For those away from the sacraments and renewed fervor. For a homecoming to Confession and the Eucharist.
Day 9 – For the New Evangelization. For courage and creativity in sharing the Gospel.
Prayer to Our Lady of Champion (short form)
O Dear Lady of Champion, you called Adele to pray for the conversion of sinners and prepare children for the sacraments. I entrust to you this intention: ________. You said, “Do not be afraid; I will help you.” Help me now to follow Jesus with trust. Amen.
Our Father, Hail Mary, Glory Be.
Our Lady of Champion, pray for us.
Start today. Invite a friend. If you can, plan a visit to Champion — but even from home, these nine days can be a quiet way to care for the sick, support families, and ask God to renew hearts.
