St. Christopher
Feast 07-25
Patron of
About
According to tradition, Christopher was a man of great stature who lived in the third century, possibly in Asia Minor. Seeking to serve the greatest king, he first served a local ruler, then the devil himself, before a hermit taught him the Christian faith. He settled near a river and carried travelers across, using his great strength.
One day a child asked to be carried across. As Christopher waded into the water, the child grew heavier and heavier until Christopher feared he would drown. The child revealed himself as Christ, bearing the weight of the world, and Christopher's staff miraculously bloomed. His name means "Christ-bearer."
Christopher was martyred during the persecution of the emperor Decius around 250. He is one of the most popular saints in the world, invoked by travelers and motorists, and his image is carried by millions on medals and dashboard cards.
Suggested prayer
O God, who revealed Your Son to Christopher as he carried a child across the river, grant through his intercession that travelers and motorists may be kept safe on every journey. We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen.
