St. Christopher
Bearer of Christ, Patron of Travelers
Feast Day: July 25
Biography
St. Christopher is one of the most beloved and widely invoked saints in popular devotion, though historical details about his life are limited. According to tradition, he was a giant of a man named Reprobus who sought to serve the most powerful king in the world. After discovering that even the mightiest earthly king feared the devil, and that the devil feared Christ, he sought Christ. A hermit told him to serve travelers by carrying them across a dangerous river. One night, a small child asked to be carried across. As Christopher waded into the water, the child grew impossibly heavy — for he was carrying Christ and the weight of the whole world. The child revealed himself as Jesus, saying: 'You have carried the whole world upon your shoulders.' Christopher was martyred during the persecution of Decius (c. 251). Though removed from the universal calendar in 1969, he remains a saint of the Church, and his devotion continues worldwide.
Patronages
Symbols
Prayer
Grant me, O Lord, a steady hand and watchful eye, that no one shall be hurt as I pass by. You gave life, I pray no act of mine may take away or mar that gift of Thine. Through the intercession of St. Christopher, protect all travelers. Amen.
Asking for Intercession
Catholics ask saints to pray with us and for us, as we ask friends on earth. St. Christopher, who lives in God's presence, intercedes before His throne. Speak from your heart: “St. Christopher, please pray for me…” You may also pray the prayer above or include this intention in your Rosary.