There are many empowering saints whose Feast Days we celebrate in July. In this month’s blog, we cover saints as young as 11 to the elderly parents of Mary, grandparents of Jesus.
Saint Thomas the Apostle – July 3rd
It is believed that St Thomas was born in Galilee. He was one of Jesus’ apostles and plays a significant role in the Gospel of John. He is remembered by the name “Doubting Thomas” as he declared that he would not believe in Jesus’ resurrection unless he would see and touch the wounds himself. After his belief was confirmed, he went on to spread the gospel as far as India. His life is a reminder that questioning is a part of faith, but seeking out answers for them can lead to a closer relationship with God.
Saint Maria Goretti – July 6th
St Maria was born in Italy to a poor family, whose father died when Maria was nine. She helped her mum work in the fields and looking after the youngest sibling. A family they job-shared with often withheld funds from them and ordered Maria to complete difficult chores. At age 11, Maria was repairing a shirt for the family when the son burst in and ordered her to the bedroom. She refused, but was forced, and later stabbed 14 times by the father. Before her death, Maria forgave him. Maria became one of the youngest saints, being canonised at only 11 years old.
Saint Mary Magdalene – July 22nd
St Mary Magdalene is known as the “Apostle to the Apostles”, as Jesus entrusted her to tell the Apostles of His resurrection. She is mentioned in all 4 gospels and is believed to have been healed by Jesus. She was with him through all his ministry, as well as his crucifixion. There are opposing views about whether Mary was the weeping women at Jesus feet in the Gospel of John.
Saint James the Greater – July 25th
Born in Galilee, St James too was one of Jesus’ apostles, and is the only apostle whose martyrdom was written in the New Testament. He was one of the fisherman Jesus appeared to and found their nets full of fish after listening to Jesus’ instructions. James was one of three to witness Jesus’ transfiguration and it is believed that after His resurrection, James travelled to Spain to share the gospel. He is known to have been the first apostle to die.
Saint Joachim and Anne – July 26th
Saints Joachim and Anne are the parents of Mary, and grandparents of Jesus. They are not mentioned in the Bible, but their story is preserved in Christian writings such as the Protoevangelium of James. From these texts, we know that Joachim and Anne were an elderly couple who prayed for a baby. Their prayers were answered as they welcomed Mary to the world, who later became the mother of the Son of God. It is believed that Joachim died shortly after Mary’s birth, and Anne later remarried.
