Preparing for the 2025 Fall Ember Days—Even While It’s Still Summer

Although we’re still enjoying the warmth and light of summer, the Church gently calls us to start looking ahead with spiritual intention. The Fall Ember Days—a beautiful tradition of fasting, prayer, and thanksgiving—return this September 17, 19, and 20, 2025. Rooted in gratitude for the harvest and prayers for priests, these sacred days offer us a quiet pause as we transition into autumn.

At St. Jude Shop, we believe in preparing our hearts—and our homes and parishes—for moments like these. Even now, while the sun is still high and families are enjoying the summer break, you can begin gathering what you need to make the 2025 Fall Ember Days a meaningful and prayerful experience.

What Are the Fall Ember Days?

The Ember Days (short for Quatuor Tempora, or "the four times") are seasonal days set aside by the Catholic Church for prayer, fasting, and almsgiving. Each season—winter, spring, summer, and fall—includes three Ember Days: Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday.

The Fall Ember Days traditionally:                        

• Give thanks for the harvest 

• Ask for blessings on the fruits of the earth

• Pray for the sanctification of clergy

• Invite us into deeper reflection as the liturgical year winds down  
  

Even though these days are optional in modern observance, many Catholic families and parishes continue to honor them with reverence.

How to Spiritually Prepare: Catholic Essentials for Fall Ember Days

Looking ahead to September, now is a wonderful time to gather the devotional items you’ll want on hand. Here are a few recommended products from StJudeShop.com to enhance your Ember Days preparation:

Ember Days Prayer Cards
Include special prayers for Ember Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday in your daily devotion. While specific Ember Day cards may vary, our wide selection of Catholic prayer cards includes options for priests, vocations, and thanksgiving—perfect for the spirit of the season.

Liturgical Candles and Holders
Ember Days are times of solemnity. Lighting a candle during morning or evening prayer is a meaningful way to create space for sacred reflection. Stock up now on altar candles, devotional candles, or votive holders for your home or chapel.

Small Outdoor Statues or Grottoes
Since Ember Days are rooted in nature and gratitude for the harvest, it’s fitting to reflect outdoors. Add a Virgin Mary garden statue, St. Jude statue, or Mary grotto to your patio or yard to create a peaceful prayer space.

Catholic Missals and Devotional Books
Find Ember Day readings and prayers in traditional Catholic missals or daily devotionals. We carry several pocket missals, seasonal guides, and books for deeper Catholic living. These resources help individuals and families enter fully into Ember observance.

Liturgical Garments and Tablecloths for Prayer Corners
If you have a family prayer table or home altar, consider refreshing your liturgical linens. Fall colors—gold, burgundy, green—can help mark the changing season with reverence.

It’s Still Summer—But Your Soul Can Start Preparing

While there’s still time for barbecues and beach days, consider weaving early moments of prayer and preparation into your summer rhythm. Set aside a few items, pick up a new devotional, or create a prayer corner in your home. Small steps now will help you enter September ready for renewal.

Celebrate Fall Ember Days with Purpose

At St. Jude Shop, we’re here to support your Catholic life year-round—with the supplies, devotionals, and sacred art that help make the liturgical seasons come alive. Whether you're preparing your parish, your prayer group, or your family at home, we invite you to explore our collection of Catholic church supplies and faith-filled gifts to mark the Ember Days with beauty and reverence.

Shop early, pray deeply, and let your faith flourish this fall.