Litany of the Holy Name of Jesus

The Litany of the Holy Name of Jesus (also known as the Litany of the Most Holy Name of Jesus) emerged from 15th-century Franciscan zeal for reverencing Christ’s name, received gradual papal approval, and continues as a rich scriptural and theological prayer that invites us to contemplate who Jesus is and what He has done.

The litany is believed to have originated in the early 15th century, with its composition traditionally ascribed to two Franciscan saints: St Bernardine of Siena (1380–1444) and his disciple St John of Capistrano (1386–1456). These preachers were renowned for their fervent devotion to the Holy Name of Jesus and actively promoted reverence for it through preaching and the use of the IHS monogram (a Christogram derived from the first three letters of “Jesus” in Greek).

The devotion itself draws on deeper biblical roots, particularly Philippians 2:9–11 (“At the name of Jesus every knee should bend…”) and the Jewish reverence for the divine name, adapted in early Christianity.

A feast in honor of the Holy Name was instituted in the early 16th century which helped popularize related prayers, including the Litany of the Holy Name of Jesus.

In 1585, Pope Sixtus V granted an indulgence (300 days) for its private recitation at the request of the Carmelites, providing early official recognition. Formal approvals for specific versions came later: Pope Pius IX approved a formulary in 1862, and Pope Leo XIII extended this approval and indulgence to the universal Church in 1886, encouraging its use amid concerns over blasphemy and irreverence toward the name of Jesus.

The Litany of the Holy Name of Jesus is naturally linked with the Feast of the Holy Name of Jesus, traditionally celebrated on January 3 (or on January 2 in some calendars). January is also dedicated to the Holy Name in Catholic devotion.

The invocations meditate on Christ’s divinity, humanity, virtues, and salvific works, blending adoration with supplication. It is Christocentric, focusing directly on Jesus rather than intercessors.

The Litany of the Holy Name of Jesus reflects the ancient Christian practice of invoking the name of Jesus for protection, healing, and spiritual strength (echoed in the Jesus Prayer tradition). St Bernardine and St John Capistrano used public veneration of the Name as a means of reform, preaching against vice and encouraging personal holiness. Today, it remains a popular devotion for private prayer, family recitation, or public services, particularly in January or during Holy Name Society gatherings.