Patron saints serve as spiritual guardians over different aspects of life, encompassing professions, health issues, and personal causes. Historical records indicate that people began honoring saints as early as the fourth century, often naming churches and communities after apostles and martyrs. — Source: Catholic Online

If you come from a Roman Catholic background, you're likely familiar with the concept of patron saints—holy figures recognized for their devotion and service to God. Even those outside the Catholic faith may recognize some of the most celebrated saints, such as:

• St. Patrick — Patron saint of Ireland
• St. Francis of Assisi — Patron saint of animals and the environment
• St. Nicholas (commonly known as “Santa”) — Patron saint of children

Each saint has a designated feast day (for instance, St. Patrick's is March 17) and specializes in certain areas of life. When faced with specific challenges, individuals often appeal to the relevant patron saint for support.

Here are six lesser-known patron saints who are ready to take requests. While their help isn't guaranteed, reaching out certainly can't hurt.

1. St. Isidore of Seville — Patron saint of the Internet

Experiencing difficulties with your online searches? Hoping your blog will gain traction? Look to St. Isidore, a bishop known for his early attempts to compile an encyclopedia of knowledge—essentially a precursor to the modern Internet.

You can create your own prayer to St. Isidore, but here's a suggestion that addresses internet-related issues:

Grant, we beseech Thee, that through the intercession of Saint Isidore, bishop and doctor, during our journeys through the internet we will direct our hands and eyes only to that which is pleasing to Thee, and treat with charity and patience all those souls whom we encounter. — Source: ElCidOnline.com

2. St. Anthony of Padua — Patron saint of lost items

Have you misplaced your keys or important belongings? St. Anthony might lend a hand. Unlike some other saints, he has a catchy rhyme you can recite to seek his assistance:

“Something’s lost that can’t be found,

Please, St. Anthony, look around.”

Give it a try, and you may be pleasantly surprised by the outcome.

3. St. Joseph — Patron saint of home sellers

St. Joseph is associated with various specialties, but a popular belief involves his aid in selling homes. Some people, including my friend Debbie, swear that burying a statue of St. Joseph in the yard of a house for sale expedites the process.

While the Catholic Church neither endorses nor condemns this practice, the instructions from one kit include:

• Bury the statue in the front yard, ideally near the “For Sale” sign or close to the street.
• Place the statue upside down, facing the house.
• Pray to St. Joseph during the burial and continue until the house sells.
• Most importantly, maintain faith in yourself, the sale, and St. Joseph.
• Once the house sells, take the statue with you to your new home and place it in a position of honor.
• If you reside in a condo, bury the statue in a pot.

4. St. Lawrence — Patron saint of cooks

Struggling with culinary skills? A prayer to St. Lawrence could be beneficial. His patronage is linked to his martyrdom, as he was condemned to death by roasting. Legend has it that during his ordeal, he famously remarked, “I’m well done on this side, turn me over,” showcasing his commitment to culinary standards even in extreme circumstances.

5. St. Apollonia — Patron saint of toothaches

St. Apollonia lived in Alexandria during a period of persecution against Christians. She faced extreme torture, including having her teeth extracted, before choosing to leap into flames rather than renounce her faith. As a result, she is often called upon for assistance with dental pain and issues.

6. St. Sebastian — Patron saint of pandemics

St. Sebastian was a Roman soldier who converted to Christianity and encouraged others to do the same. His missionary work led to severe persecution, including being tied to a tree and shot with arrows. Miraculously surviving, he later confronted the emperor, only to be clubbed to death.

Throughout the Middle Ages, people sought St. Sebastian's help during plague outbreaks, believing in his power to intercede against such epidemics. Notably, he was credited with saving Rome from a lethal epidemic in 680, according to chronicler Paul the Deacon.

While some mistakenly identify St. Corona as the patron saint of pandemics, she is actually associated with lumberjacks—an ironic twist given her grisly martyrdom.

©2020, Denise Shelton. All rights reserved.