Adore the Lord in the Most Blessed Sacrament during 40 Hours Devotion from December 6-8, 2022

The 40 Hours Devotion has been widely celebrated in the Diocese of Arlington since the diocese was established in 1974. That Eucharistic mindset continues today. The Basilica continues its focus on the Eucharist, which was encouraged last year during Preparation Year I of the Diocesan Golden Jubilee’s Year of the Eucharist celebration, by holding 40 Hours Devotion starting on Tuesday, December 6, the Feast Day of Saint Nicholas (and the anniversary day of when Pope Francis granted Saint Mary the title of Basilica in 2017).

Here is the schedule: 

Tuesday, December 6: 40 Hours Devotion opens with the 12:10 p.m. Mass, followed by Exposition/Adoration and recitation of the rosary. Exposition continues throughout the day and night. Confessions, as usual, following the 12:10 p.m. Mass.

Wednesday, December 7: Memorial of Saint Ambrose. 40 Hours Exposition/Adoration continue, interrupted only by Masses at 6:30 a.m., 8 a.m. and 12:10 p.m. Recitation of the rosary follows the 12:10 p.m. Mass. Holy Hour with Sung Vespers at 7 p.m. (this is not a Mass; attending will not fulfill your Holy Day Obligation). Confessions will be heard following the 12:10 p.m. Mass and at 7 p.m.

Thursday, December 8: Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception of the Blessed Virgin Mary (a Holy Day of Obligation). 40 Hours Devotion closes with Benediction at 11:45 a.m. and Reposition before the 12:10 p.m. Holy Day Mass. Recitation of the rosary follows the 12:10 p.m. Mass. Masses on this Holy Day will be at 6:30 a.m., 8 a.m., 12:10 p.m., 5 p.m. and 7 p.m. 

For the 40 Hours Devotion, parishioners will only be able to sign up via Sign-Up Genius by clicking here. Those who cannot sign up that way need to go to the parish front office, 313 Duke Street, and share with the receptionist their name and when they are available to adore the Lord. Or call the Parish Office at 703.836.4100.

At least two people need to be present at every hour.

Click here to read a guide to adoration produced by the Diocese of Arlington.