Throughout our life, there are different saints we may lean on for different prayer requests or seasons of life. For those who have families or young children at home, this is a season of life that lasts a long time. Consider choosing a family patron saint that you and your children can lean on throughout the years. Here are five tips for choosing a family patron saint. Tailor these to you and your family and let me know which saint you choose!
1. Consider Your Family's Interests and Virtues
Think about what qualities are important to your family. Is there a saint who embodies those virtues? For example, if your family values hospitality, St. Martha might be a good fit. If you’re looking for someone who was a loving spouse and parent, St. Louis and St. Zélie Martin, the parents of St. Thérèse of Lisieux, could be great role models.
2. Reflect on Family Challenges and Needs
Is there an area of life where your family seeks particular guidance or protection? If you have a loved one battling illness, consider St. Peregrine, the patron saint of cancer patients. For help with marriage or raising children, look to saints like St. Joseph or St. Anne, the mother of Mary.
3. Pray and Seek Divine Guidance
Spend some time in prayer asking God to help you discern the right saint for your family. One powerful way to do this is by praying a novena to the Holy Spirit. Over nine days, invite the Holy Spirit to lead you to the saint who can best guide your family on your spiritual journey.
4. Look Into Your Family’s Background
If your family has a particular cultural or national heritage, you might find inspiration by looking into saints from that region. Whether it’s St. Patrick for the Irish, St. Gianna Beretta Molla for Italians, or Our Lady of Guadalupe for those of Mexican heritage, these saints can be a beautiful link to your family’s roots.
5. Involve the Family in the Decision
Make this a family project! Gather together and discuss the different saints that inspire you. Read their stories and ask everyone to share their thoughts. When you feel ready, choose a day to make your final decision and celebrate with a family prayer or even a small feast.
By taking these steps, you'll invite both wisdom and grace into the process of selecting your family's patron saint. Trust that God will lead you to the saint who will walk alongside your family and bring you closer to Him!
