Catholic Patron Saints - Who Are They?

admin on September 8th, 2008

Catholic saints. The word "saint" comes from the Latin word “sanctus” which translates to "consecrated" or "holy."

Saints often lived and died in such a way as to be rewarded with a status in Heaven. There are several steps to being officially recognized as a saint by the Catholic Church.

Before a person becomes a saint, they must receive the title of Venerable or Blessed. To be venerable is the title given to a deceased person recognized as having lived heroic virtues. The church leaders research the candidate to verify if the person practiced virtue to a heroic degree, or died a martyr's death, and presents the findings to the Pope. When the pope approves the findings, the candidate is termed "Venerable."

The second step is a very lengthy process of scrutiny over the person's life, virtues, writings and reputation for holiness. In the past, the process has sometimes taken centuries. The process was modified in 1983 to reduce the process to ten years. The person must have died at least five years prior to the beginning of the process.

To be recognized as a blessed, one miracle is required. Martyrdom does not usually require a miracle. The candidate would then be "beatified" by the pope at a ceremony in St. Peter's Basilica.

Based on the course of their lives and the circumstances surrounding them, saints serve as "patrons" of certain peoples, places, things, and occupations, as they intercede for us before God. "Feast Days" are recognized for each saint. These feast days are very often the day of the year in which they died, especially if they gave up their lives for their faith.