When my husband and I first started our married life, we were looking for ways to make our relationship deeper and more meaningful. That’s when we discovered the idea of choosing a patron saint. For us, Saint Padre Pio has become a big part of our spiritual journey together.
Our special devotion to Padre Pio has been a cornerstone of our spiritual life together since before we were married. One of my favorite dates with my husband was when he surprised me with a trip to the Padre Pio Shrine in Barto, Penn. We also turned to him with heartfelt prayers during a tough time when our baby was in the NICU. One of our most cherished moments was meeting Pope Francis during our honeymoon in Rome, where he blessed a rosary I had gifted my husband with a relic of Padre Pio. This connection has really strengthened our bond and become a cornerstone of our marriage, enriching our shared faith in ways we never imagined.
Choosing a patron saint for your relationship can be just as transformative. It offers a unique way to seek divine guidance and intercession, enriching your spiritual connection and supporting your journey together. Here’s why it’s worth considering and how you can incorporate this practice into your life as a couple.
Embracing a Shared Spiritual Focus
Choosing a patron saint gives your relationship a shared spiritual focus that can strengthen your bond. By selecting a saint whose virtues and life resonate with both of you, you create a common goal and a role model to aspire to in your relationship.
Saint Agnes of Rome, for instance, is a powerful choice for couples who want to emphasize chastity and purity. Venerated for her dedication to Christ and her vow of virginity, Saint Agnes’ life is a testament to unwavering commitment and selflessness. Celebrated on January 21, her example can inspire couples to uphold these virtues, fostering a deeper, more meaningful connection.
Saint Valentine, known for his dedication to love and marriage, is another inspiring patron. He performed secret marriages during Roman persecution. The celebration of his feast day on February 14 reminds couples to celebrate and cherish their love. His story highlights the importance of commitment and devotion, even in challenging times.
Drawing Strength from Intercession
Inviting a patron saint into your relationship means seeking their guidance and support. This can be especially helpful in navigating challenges and growing together in faith.
Saint Raphael the Archangel is renowned for his role in guiding and healing relationships. His feast day, September 29, is an opportunity for couples to seek his intercession for harmony and understanding in their relationship. Saint Raphael’s guidance can provide reassurance and wisdom as you move forward together.
Saint Louis and Zélie Martin, celebrated for their exemplary marriage and family life, offer a model of holiness and love. Their feast day on July 12 is a chance to honor their legacy and seek their support for your marriage.
Celebrating and Honoring Your Patron Saint
Engaging in activities to honor your patron saint can bring a deeper dimension to your relationship. Here are a few suggestions:
- Consecration: Consider consecrating your relationship to Jesus through your chosen saint. This devotion can help align your relationship with your spiritual values.
- Feast Day Celebrations: Celebrate your patron saint’s feast day with special rituals such as a dinner, prayer, and attending Mass. This can be a joyful way to honor their example.
- Prayer for Intercession: Regularly pray to your patron saint as a couple. Sharing these prayers can strengthen your connection and provide a spiritual foundation for your relationship.
- Learning Together: Read about your patron saint together. This practice can lead to meaningful conversations and insights into each other’s values and beliefs. My husband and I did this when we were dating, and it really helped us grow closer by understanding each other’s learning and communication styles.
Building a Faithful Relationship
Choosing a patron saint for your relationship is more than a tradition; it’s an opportunity to deepen your spiritual connection and seek divine guidance. It can provide a strong foundation for your relationship, helping you navigate life’s challenges and celebrate its joys together.
Whether you’re drawn to the purity of Saint Agnes, the love of Saint Valentine, or the guidance of Saint Raphael, each saint offers unique blessings for your journey together. Embrace this practice and let it inspire and enrich your relationship in meaningful ways.
