What is 40 Hours Devotion?

As we observe Lent, an important practice of the season is the custom of 40 Hours Devotion. In 40 Hours Devotion, the consecrated Eucharist is exposed on the altar in a monstrance for adoration for 40 hours. The tradition is tied to repentance and is usually observed during Lent. In Ave Maria Parish, the forty hours are broken up over a period of three days, with a Solemn Evening Prayer every day.

Why 40 Hours?

40 Hours Devotion comes from the 40 hours that Christ’s body traditionally rested in the tomb. 40 is a significant number in the Bible, often tied to trials and/or suffering: the Israelites wandered in the desert for 40 years, and Christ was tempted in the desert for 40 days prior to the start of his ministry.

40 Hours in the United States

St. John Neumann was the first church leader in America to practice the devotion. At the time, Catholics faced great opposition in his home city of Philadelphia during the Know-Nothing Riots of 1844. Anti-Catholic protesters burned two churches and continued to foster animosity towards the Catholics in the city. Bishop Neumann wanted to institute 40 Hours Devotion, but some of the priests in the diocese were hesitant, believing that it might fan the flames of anti-Catholic sentiment and even result in the desecration of the Eucharist. Neumann was working late into the night when he fell asleep at his desk with his candle still lit. As he slept, the candle burnt down and caught the papers on his desk. Miraculously, he awoke before a large fire broke out — and the papers, though charred, were still readable. Neumann thanked God for His protection and the Lord spoke to him, telling him not to fear about having the devotion. The first was held in St. Philip Neri Parish, and then expanded throughout the diocese and beyond, being approved for all American dioceses in 1866.

The Tradition Continues

Ave Maria Parish is honored to carry on the tradition of 40 Hours Devotion, providing the faithful an opportunity to draw close to the Lord in prayer during Lent, honoring the Lamb who takes away the sins of the world and enables us to have communion with God. Mark the days in your calendar for a time of Adoration before the Blessed Sacrament exposed on the altar of our Church. Also, save time to participate in the Solemn Vespers, Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, March 27 – 29, from 7pm – 8pm. 

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