Finding and Choosing Your Patron Saint
July 15, 2024 by Elizabeth Bavaro
You may have heard that St. Christopher is the patron saint of travel, and that St. Joseph is the patron of families, but do you know that you have a patron saint too? If you are named after a saint, you have a built-in patron saint! Maybe you grew up hearing stories about the inspiring life of the saint for which you are named and already have a devotion to him or her. But for converts or those who are not named after Catholic saints, knowing who your patron saint is might be more confusing. In this article we will talk about the various ways of choosing patron saints, and the role they can play in your spiritual life.
What is a Patron Saint?
A patron saint is an advocate and intercessor before God for a specific nation, place, occupation, activity, group, or person. Throughout the history of the Church, people have called upon patrons for help in various aspects of their lives. These saints are seen as companions on the spiritual journey, offering guidance, protection, and support to those who seek their intercession.
Personal patron saints can be chosen based on a variety of factors, such as one's baptismal name, date of birth, personal connection, or specific needs and circumstances.
Developing a relationship with a patron saint involves learning about their life, teachings, and example, as well as seeking their guidance through prayer and reflection. Patron saints are a part of one's heavenly family, walking alongside believers in their earthly struggles and rejoicing in their journey towards eternity.
Overall, patron saints play a significant role in the spiritual life of Christians, offering a source of comfort, inspiration, and assistance in times of need. Their presence serves as a reminder of the communion of saints and the interconnectedness of believers within the mystical body of Christ.
How Do I Know Who My Patron Saint Is?
Most people consider the saint they are named after to be their "official patron saint." Even if your parents' intention was to name you after a relative, or they just liked the name, that saint is still one of your patrons!
Discerning Your Patron - Choosing Between Saints
But what if there are many saints that share your name? For example, if your name is John, your patron could be St. John the Evangelist, St. John Chrysostom, St. John Paul II, St. John Nepomucene, or some other St. John. If you are not named after any John in particular, your patron becomes your choice! Read up on your options and see who you are drawn toward. Maybe you feel connected to one "John" over another because some detail of his life resonates with yours. For example, my first name is Elizabeth, and my middle name is Ann, so I consider St. Elizabeth Ann Seton to be my patron, although I love and pray to the many other St. Elizabeths as well.
Your Confirmation Name
The saint you choose at your Confirmation is another one of your patrons. If you are entering the Catholic Church, choosing a Confirmation name is a great opportunity to explore the lives of the saints and find a spiritual role model. This is a personal choice, and you can select any of the Catholic saints that inspires and speaks to your heart.
Some dioceses may have different rules, but typically, you may choose a saint of either gender. If you are a woman, you are not just limited to female saints, and vice versa. Also, you may take either the first name or last name of the saint. Look through a Lives of the Saints book and see whose story stands out to you.
Catholic Book
ILLUSTRATED LIVES OF THE SAINTS BOXED SET
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Birthdays and Feast Days
Discovering the saint whose feast day aligns with your birthday is a wonderful way to connect with a patron saint. By celebrating their feast day on your birth anniversary, you establish a special bond with this saint and seek their intercession and guidance throughout your life.
To find your patron saint based on your birthday, you can refer to both the traditional calendar and the new calendar. The traditional calendar follows the Latin liturgical tradition, while the new calendar is based on the revised liturgical calendar after the Second Vatican Council.
The traditional calendar can help you identify saints whose feast days traditionally fall on your birthday. This calendar may include lesser-known or local saints that are not widely recognized. It is worth exploring these saints and learning about their lives and virtues.
On the other hand, the new calendar presents a standardized list of saints' feast days observed by the universal Church. It includes well-known and widely venerated saints, making it easier to find a patron saint familiar to many Catholics.
It's important to note that you might have more than one patron saint, as multiple saints could share your birth date. Don't be surprised if you discover several saints who can serve as sources of inspiration and intercession in your life.
Choosing Your Own Patron
But what if your name has no relation to a saint and you did not take a confirmation name? When it comes to choosing your own patron, there are several ways you can go about it. One option is to look up the meaning of your name and find a saint whose attributes or life story resonate with you. Websites like Behind the Name are good resources for name meanings and etymology.
Another approach is to consider your interests, hobbies, occupation, or even a disease you may be struggling with, and find a saint associated with that particular aspect of your life. This can provide you with a saint who can intercede for you in those specific areas. Look at a list of saints and their patronages. Are you devoted to the Eucharist? Read up on St. Paschal Baylon. Did you have a dramatic conversion to the faith? Look into St. Mary Magdalene.
Ultimately, there are no strict rules for choosing a patron, and you can have multiple patrons for different aspects of your life. It is as easy as reflecting on a few of your favorite saints and praying about it. Be open to the Holy Spirit's guidance. Having heavenly friends in your corner can be a source of blessing and support in your spiritual journey. So, take the time to explore different options and find a saint who speaks to your heart and soul.
Celebrating Your Name Day
One way to grow closer to your patron is to celebrate your name day, the feast day of the saint for whom you are named. This is a popular tradition among Catholics in many countries throughout the world. Attending Mass on your Name Day and receiving Holy Communion is a wonderful way to experience God's grace and celebrate your acceptance into the family of God. It is a day of great happiness and an opportunity to reflect on the continuing life and intercession of your patron saint.
Shop For Patron Saint Medals and Statues at Chiarelli's Religious Goods
Are you in search of saint medals and statues to deepen your connection with your patron saint? Look no further! Chiarelli's Religious Goods offers a wide range of beautiful saint medals and statues for you to choose from. Whether you are looking for a specific patron saint or simply wish to explore different options, Chiarelli's has got you covered. These items are perfect for personal devotion, prayer, or as gifts for loved ones who have a special devotion to a particular saint. Shop online or visit our store today!