Who Is My [Patron Saint](/guides/who-is-my-patron-saint)?

A patron saint is a holy person in heaven who advocates for a specific cause, profession, or individual. They are chosen as special intercessors because they have walked the path of holiness before us.

Why Do We Need Them?

We don't need them like we need God, but God gives them to us as family. Just as you ask a friend to pray for you, we ask the saints to pray for us. Because they are in heaven, their prayers are perfect and untainted by selfishness.

Finding Your Patron

Many people choose a patron saint for:

1. Confirmation: A name taken at the sacrament of Confirmation.
2. Profession: Accountants (St. Matthew), Doctors (St. Luke), Musicians (St. Cecilia).
3. Struggle: Anxiety (St. Dymphna), Lost Causes (St. Jude), Cancer (St. Peregrine).
4. Inspiration: Someone whose life story resonates with yours.

Signs a Saint is Choosing You

Often, it feels like the saint chooses you.

• You keep hearing their name.
• You receive a prayer card or medal of them unexpectedly.
• Their feast day lands on a significant date for you.
• You read their story and feel a deep connection.

What to Do Once You Find Them

• Read their biography: Know their story.
• Ask for their intercession: "St. [Name], pray for me."
• Imitate their virtues: If they were patient, practice patience.
• Celebrate their feast day: Go to Mass or do something special.

The saints want to help us get to heaven. They are our cheerleaders in the great cloud of witnesses.