Introduction
Saints are special friends in Heaven who walk alongside us, helping us through our struggles and guiding us toward a life of holiness. Just as the Bible says, “Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders…” (Hebrews 12:1, NIV), the communion of saints is that “great cloud of witnesses” that helps us in our spiritual journey. The Catholic Church recognizes the importance of these friends and teaches that “the witnesses who have preceded us into the kingdom…share in the living tradition of prayer by the example of their lives” (Catechism of the Catholic Church, 2683).
While the list of saints is vast, there are a few who are especially revered for their extraordinary lives and virtues. Here are 21 saints every Catholic should consider praying with right now. This is not an exhaustive list or a universal teaching of the Church, but a curated collection based on their virtues and relevance for modern challenges.
1. St. Joseph – The Protector
St. Joseph, the earthly father of Jesus, exemplifies the virtues of humility and obedience. The Catechism teaches, “The hidden life at Nazareth allows everyone to enter into fellowship with Jesus by the most ordinary events of daily life” (CCC, 533). By seeking the intercession of St. Joseph, you invite protection and guidance into your family life.
2. St. Mary – The Mother of God
Mary, the mother of Jesus, holds a unique place in the communion of saints. As the Catechism puts it, “By her complete adherence to the Father’s will…Mary made wholehearted obedience to God’s will the defining center of her life” (CCC, 144). Pray the Rosary to draw closer to Mary and, through her, to Jesus.
3. St. Peter – The Rock of the Church
St. Peter, the first pope, exemplifies faith and repentance. Jesus said to him, “You are Peter, and on this rock I will build my church” (Matthew 16:18). Pray to St. Peter for courage and faithfulness in times of doubt and struggle.
4. St. Paul – The Apostle to the Gentiles
St. Paul was a great missionary. He said, “I have become all things to all people so that by all possible means I might save some” (1 Corinthians 9:22). Pray to St. Paul for the courage to evangelize and spread the Gospel.
5. St. Augustine – The Seeker
St. Augustine’s journey from a life of sin to sainthood inspires those struggling with temptation. His famous line “Our heart is restless until it rests in You” encapsulates the human quest for God. Pray to St. Augustine for guidance in your search for truth.
6. St. Thomas Aquinas – The Scholar
Thomas Aquinas blended faith and reason, a much-needed blend in today’s polarized world. The Catechism states, “Faith is certain. It is more certain than all human knowledge” (CCC, 157). Pray to St. Thomas for wisdom and discernment.
7. St. Francis of Assisi – The Lover of Creation
St. Francis reminds us of the beauty of God’s creation. “Praised be you, my Lord, with all your creatures” is a famous line from his Canticle of the Sun. Pray to St. Francis for a deeper connection with nature and all God’s creatures.
8. St. Therese of Lisieux – The Little Flower
St. Therese’s “Little Way” teaches that even the smallest acts done in love can achieve greatness. Pray to her for the grace to see God’s love in the mundane and ordinary aspects of life.
9. St. Anthony of Padua – Finder of Lost Things
Many pray to St. Anthony when something is lost. His intercession teaches us to find God in all circumstances. Pray to St. Anthony for help in finding not just material objects but also the right path in life.
10. St. Ignatius of Loyola – The Spiritual Warrior
St. Ignatius’ Spiritual Exercises are a powerful tool for discernment. Pray to him for guidance in making difficult decisions according to God’s will.
11. St. Joan of Arc – The Brave Maiden
St. Joan of Arc displays courage and conviction. Her life shows that age and gender are no barriers to serving God. Pray to her for courage and resilience against all odds.
12. St. Maximilian Kolbe – The Martyr of Charity
St. Maximilian Kolbe sacrificed his life for another man in Auschwitz. His action reflects Jesus’ words, “Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends” (John 15:13). Pray to him for the strength to love selflessly.
13-21: More Friends in Heaven
The list goes on, including St. Monica, the patient mother; St. John Paul II, the modern pope; St. Teresa of Calcutta, the saint of the gutters; St. Padre Pio, the stigmatist; St. Michael the Archangel, the protector; St. John of the Cross, the mystic; and St. Elizabeth Ann Seton, the educator. Each offers unique virtues and lessons that can be applied to our modern lives.
Conclusion
Remember that the saints are not just figures of the past; they are our present companions in the journey towards eternal life. “Being more closely united to Christ, those who dwell in heaven fix the whole Church more firmly in holiness…. They do not cease to intercede with the Father for us” (CCC, 956). As you walk your path toward holiness, know that you do not walk alone. Invite these saintly friends into your life through prayer, and let them guide you closer to God.