Is There a Feast Day for the Infant of Prague?

By Anna Duncan

The Infant of Prague is a famous statue of the infant Jesus located in the Czech Republic. This statue has been venerated by Catholics all over the world for centuries, and many people wonder if there is a feast day dedicated to the Infant of Prague.

History of the Infant of Prague
The Infant of Prague statue dates back to the 16th century when it was brought to Bohemia by Princess Polyxena von Lobkowicz. The statue was originally located in a church in Prague, but it was later moved to its current location in the Church of Our Lady Victorious.

According to legend, Princess Polyxena von Lobkowicz gave the statue to her daughter as a wedding gift. When her daughter’s marriage ran into trouble, she prayed before the statue for help.

A miracle occurred, and her daughter’s marriage was saved. This event led to veneration of the statue as an object of miraculous intervention.

Feast Day for Infant of Prague
There is no official feast day for the Infant of Prague, but many people celebrate December 25th as his feast day since it commemorates his birth. Others celebrate September 8th as his feast day since it is also celebrated as the Nativity of Mary.

Despite this lack of an official feast day, there are many traditions associated with the Infant of Prague that are observed throughout the year. One such tradition involves dressing and decorating the statue in various ornate clothing items and jewelry.

Prayer to Infant Jesus
Many Catholics also say a special prayer when praying before the Infant Jesus:

“O Divine Jesus,
Who has said,
Ask and you shall receive,
Seek and you shall find,
Knock and it shall be opened unto you,
Behold me prostrate at your feet. Animated with a lively faith
And confidence in these promises,
I come to implore your aid. From the bottom of my heart
I ask you to help me in my need,
(Mention Your Request)
For I firmly believe
That your Divinity can help me. I hope with confidence
To obtain your holy grace. I love you with all my heart,
And with all the strength of my soul. I repent sincerely of my sins,
And I beg you, O good Jesus,
To grant me the strength
To triumph over them.

I propose to spend the rest of my life
Serving you and your interests. Enlighten me, O Holy Spirit;
Guide me in the path of righteousness. Mary, My Mother,
Queen of Heaven and Earth,
Assist me in this necessity. For I confidently submit myself
To the Divine Will. In Jesus’ name I pray. Amen.”

Conclusion
The Infant of Prague is an important statue for Catholics around the world. Although there is no official feast day dedicated to him, many people celebrate his birth on December 25th or September 8th as his feast day. Regardless of which day is observed, the Infant of Prague remains an important symbol of faith and hope for many people.