Annual Patron Saint

Years ago, when we lived in Kearney, NE, I was introduced to the idea of annual patron saints. The idea is to randomly pick a saint from a pile or group; and in the coming year, you are to learn about that saint and ask them for intercession in your life. Some say that the saint chooses you.

Early in the new year (or maybe it was December), while shopping at a local Catholic bookstore, I picked out an annual patron saint at the checkout. What a wonderful project for a store to undertake...making sure their 'patron's' have a patron saint to help them through the year. The saint's name and a verse were written on a thin strip of paper. Mine was St. Helena and I'll admit that I don't know much about her, other than remembering she is credited with finding the true cross. If I could find the strip, I'd share the verse, but I can't find it. I distinctly remember Graham holding it and that I took it and put it somewhere safer. Ha!! Haven't we all done that! Anyway, I hope to share more as I learn more.

Shrine to Saint Helena at St. Peter's Basilica

Then, at our first Family Formation parent class in January, I was again given the opportunity to pick an annual patron saint from a face-down pile of cards. After asking if it was okay to have two patrons - as if I don't need more help! - I chose one for myself and my husband, who wasn't able to attend. My second patron for the year is the Infant Baby Jesus. The card showed this beautiful picture of Mary and Jesus with the following phrase and prayer:

Newborn Baby Jesus

"Today when Jesus is born and by His birth brings immeasurable joy, love and peace, I call you, in a special way to say your 'yes' to Jesus. Open your hearts so that Jesus enters into them, comes to dwell in them and starts to work through you. Only in this way will you be able to comprehend the true beauty of God's love, joy and peace." *

~Let the baby Jesus be your guide, pray that all mothers would choose life for their unborn child.

If you don't have an annual patron saint, but would like to participate, go grab a saint book. With your eyes closed, flip through the pages and just stop at some point. Consider this your 2009 annual patron saint. Live and learn with your saint over the coming year.

*From page 321 of 'The Visions of the Children: The Apparitions of the Blessed Mother at Medjugorje' By Janice T. Connell. Check here for more information on the book and author.