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Mary, Blessed Mother
$5.00
Recognized by all Christians for the immense role she played in the story of our salvation, Mary is the mother of Jesus - a title without equal among the communion of saints. Jesus directed us to bring Mary, whom the Scriptures call "blessed among women," into our lives with three simple words: "Behold, your mother." (Jn 19:27) Since then, Mary has been a source of peace, hope and love for all who have turned to her. Without exception, Mary hears the prayers of her children and delivers them perfectly to Jesus.
Saint Michael the Archangel
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Much of what we know of Saint Michael, we know from Scripture: "Then war broke out in heaven; Michael and his angels battled against the dragon. The dragon and its angels fought back." (Revelation 12:7) An important figure in Church history, Michael was beloved by the Jewish faithful long before the days of Christ. Today, he is chief protector of the Christian faith. For his strength, courage and mission to protect, Michael is the patron saint of the military and police officers.
Saint Therese of Lisieux
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Known also as "Saint Theresa, the Little Flower," Therese was a very smart, kind and sensitive child from a good and loving family. But she had a very hard time with stress and fell victim to bullying, self-doubt and the challenges of life (including the early death of her mother). In 1886, Therese felt Jesus give her an answer to her struggle for peace. “I felt, in a word, charity enter my heart, the need to forget myself to make others happy,” she said. In 1888, Therese entered a Carmelite convent. Known for her simple love and kind ways, Therese died at 24, promising to "send down a shower of roses" from Heaven.
Saint Francis of Assisi
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Known well as the namesake for Pope Francis, St. Francis was born in Assisi, Italy, the son of a wealthy merchant. He joined the military but soon became a prisoner of war. When he finally returned home, Francis felt called to serve others, especially the poor. While praying before a crucifix, Francis heard Jesus tell him to repair the Church and live a life of poverty and simplicity. He soon attracted many followers. Today, the Franciscan Order is one of the most beloved religious institutions in the world.
Saint Joseph
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Joseph, the father of Jesus, was responsible for teaching his son how to work, pray and learn. An often unsung hero, he showed great faith during Mary’s pregnancy and great courage in protecting his unborn son from Herod. Clearly God trusted this good man to care for Jesus and Mary in all the ways a husband and father should. A carpenter by trade, Joseph is the patron saint of workers. Having died with Mary and Jesus by his side, he is also the patron saint of a happy death.
Pope Francis
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We can pray for our Holy Father with the simple prayer on the back of each charm package:
Dear Jesus,
Please bless Pope Francis.
Help him lead by his words and example. Give him strength to carry out your work and deliver your message of love. We ask this through the intercession of Mary and all the saints.
Amen.
Saint Anne
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Anne was the mother of Mary and grandmother of Jesus! She was a woman of faith who inspired her daughter to trust in God’s plan for our lives. She probably never fathomed how important that lesson would become. When the angel Gabriel visited Mary, Anne’s influence on Mary’s “let it be” changed history. Today, Anne is the patron saint of homemakers and women in labor. She is also the patron of miners for her role in safeguarding Jesus (gold) and Mary (silver).
Saint Cecilia
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Cecilia was a 2nd-century Christian from Rome. She was forced by her family to marry despite the fact that she had dedicated herself to Jesus. Focused on that commitment, Cecilia sang praises in her heart throughout her wedding ceremony. (That is why she is the patroness of musicians.) By God’s grace, Cecilia’s husband soon became a Christian as well and respected Cecilia’s wishes to be consecrated to Jesus. It is said that for their purity and love, an angel gave Cecilia and her husband a gift of roses and lilies.
Saint John Paul II
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As pope from 1978 to 2005, Pope John Paul II tackled difficult global issues like corrupt governments, war and human rights. He visited 116 countries and met frequently with world leaders. But his message was not just for those in power; it was for everyone. “Do not be afraid,” he said. “Jesus Christ is the hope of the world.” Through his courage and leadership, Pope John Paul II inspired a generation of faithful. Today, many of them call him St. John Paul the Great.
Saint Teresa of Calcutta
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"By blood, I am Albanian. By citizenship, an Indian. By faith, I am a Catholic nun. As to my calling, I belong to the world. As to my heart, I belong entirely to the Heart of Jesus." Those were the words of Mother Teresa, beloved foundress of the Missionaries of Charity and recipient of the 1979 Nobel Peace Prize. Mother Teresa’s life epitomized the joy of love, the dignity of life, the significance of little acts, and the immeasurable value of friendship with Jesus.
Saint Anthony
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St. Anthony of Padua was a 13th-century member of the Franciscan Order known for his rich knowledge of Church theology. But even more important was his incredible ability to explain the Faith so that anyone could understand even the deepest truths. Anthony is often seen holding the child Jesus, who once appeared to him and touched his face. Over the years, St. Anthony has become beloved by millions as the patron saint of "lost things.”
Saint Patrick
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Originally from Scotland, Patrick was kidnapped by pirates and enslaved at only 14. He was taken to Ireland to work as a shepherd. In the fields, Patrick’s faith grew immensely. He prayed in the woods and on the mountains, day and night. After miraculously finding his way home in Scotland, Patrick became a priest, and soon a bishop. God called him to return to Ireland and share the Gospel. There, Patrick performed many miracles and popularly used the shamrock to explain the Trinity.
Saint Christopher
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Christopher was 3rd-century Christian and a “carrier” by trade. This meant that his job was to take goods and people safely across rivers that had no bridge. Legend has it that one day a young child asked if he could be carried. Christopher was overwhelmed by the weight of the child, but pressed on. Christopher discovered that the child was actually Jesus bearing the weight of the world. Christopher was being called to carry Christ and His message to all!
Saint Catherine of Siena
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Catherine was one of 25 children! Despite family tragedies and the difficulties of her time, Catherine’s family gave her the nickname “Joy” in honor of her happy personality. Catherine had visions of guardian angels, Mary, the saints and Jesus! She became a member of the Dominican Order and is still known today as one of the most brilliant minds in Church history. Catherine has been given the esteemed title “Doctor of the Church” for her faithful wisdom.
Our Lady of Guadalupe
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In 1531, the Virgin Mary appeared to a Mexican peasant named Juan Diego and asked him to have a church built at the site of the apparition. Seeking proof, Juan Diego's bishop asked him for a sign. Mary told Juan Diego to gather flowers in his tilma (a Mexican garment) and take them to the bishop. When Juan Diego poured out the flowers, the bishop saw on his tilma the miraculous image of Mary. Today, the image is on display in Mexico City for all to see.
Saint Joan of Arc
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Born a peasant in what is now eastern France, Joan of Arc heard God calling her to lead France to victory during the Hundred Years’ War. To follow this call, she refused an arranged marriage and cut her hair short to blend into and lead the French army. With Joan in a position of leadership, the French saw many of their pivotal victories. When she was eventually captured, the British had Joan executed for a number of charges including witchcraft, wearing men’s armor and claiming to speak to God.
Saint Padre Pio
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Padre Pio, born Francesco Forgione in 1887, was the son of poor Italian farmers. He became a Capuchin priest and eventually became an inspiration to millions. In 1971, Pope Paul VI explained why: “...It was because he said Mass humbly, heard confessions from morning until night and was a marked representative of the stigmata of Our Lord. He was truly a man of prayer and suffering.” Today, Padre Pio’s favorite advice - pray, hope and don’t worry - continues to resonate with the world.
Saint Jude
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St. Jude was one of the twelve apostles (not to be confused with Judas) and was likely a cousin of Jesus. During the desperate times of the Great Depression and World War II, devotion to this “patron saint of impossible causes” led to the establishment of the National Shrine of St. Jude in Chicago. Word spread throughout the United States, and to this day St. Jude is a source of strength for many people when all hope is dwindling.
Saint Nicholas
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Nicholas was a generous 3rd-century bishop who came from a wealthy family. Legend has it that Nicholas would toss bags of gold through the windows of families in need of money to secure good marriages for their daughters. These bags of gold often landed in stockings hanging by a fire. Over time, a gift-giving tradition grew. In fact, every Christmas we all invite St. Nicholas to celebrate with us, but his name sounds just a little different! You know him as... Santa Claus!
Saint Gianna
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Born in 1922, Gianna Beretta Molla was an Italian pediatrician, wife and mother who worked hard to keep life balanced. She understood the rigors of work and family and believed that taking time for prayer was essential. This inspired her faith, a faith she leaned on when she opted to undergo surgery that could save her unborn baby while putting her own life at risk. The baby, Gianna’s fourth, was delivered safely in 1962, but Gianna died one week later from complications.
Our Lady of Undoer of Knots
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"Eve, by her disobedience, tied the knot of disgrace for the human race; whereas Mary, by her obedience, undid it." These words of St. Irenaeus nearly 2,000 years ago resonate deeply with millions who suffer from family struggles, addiction and the many anxieties of life - the knots of life. Inspired by St. Iranaeus’ message, a German artist painted “Mary, Undoer of Knots” around the year 1700. Pope Francis saw the image while studying in Germany and has since shared it with the world!
Saint Faustina
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In 1931, Jesus appeared to a Polish nun named Sister Faustina. She recounted the event in her diary: “Jesus said to me, ‘Paint an image according to the pattern you see, with the inscription: Jesus, I trust in You… Every soul believing and trusting in My Mercy will obtain it.’” To this day, the message has garnered immense devotion. Understanding Jesus’ desire for the world to grasp the depths of God’s mercy, Pope John Paul II declared that Divine Mercy Sunday woud be celebrated by the Church every year one week after Easter.
Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton
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Elizabeth Ann Seton was the very first American saint! Born in 1774, Elizabeth suffered personal tragedies during her early life. She found comfort in reading, nature, poetry, music, and even horseback riding. Elizabeth eventually married, but her husband died only a few years later. Soonafter, Elizabeth became Catholic and established a girl's school in Emmitsburg, MD. She also founded a religious community under the Rules of the Daughters of Charity.
Saint Maximilian Kolbe
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Father Maximilian Kolbe was a loving and compassionate Franciscan priest from Poland. He cared deeply about sharing the message of the Gospel and even published a newspaper and magazine. In 1941, Kolbe was arrested by the Nazis and placed in Auschwitz concentration camp. When ten prisoners were chosen to die by starvation, Kolbe volunteered to replace a young husband and father. The man survived the war and attended the Kolbe’s canonization in 1982.
Saint Rose of Lima
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From the moment Rose was born in 1586, people admired her beauty. But she did not feel called to marriage. That angered her parents, but Rose eventually became a member of the Third Order of St. Dominic. Living at home, she sold embroidery and flowers to support her family. Rose lived a life of intense penance and sacrifice. Sometimes, she would sleep only two hours so she could spend more time in prayer.
Saint Maria Goretti
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Maria Goretti was born in Italy in 1890. When her father died of malaria, Maria’s mother and siblings worked in the fields while Maria tended to the home. They found happiness in family and faith. But when Maria Goretti was only 11 years old, she was attacked by her neighbor. After pleading more for his soul than her own safety, Maria died from her wounds a day later. Maria's attacker attended her canonization in 1950 and died twenty years later, having prayed to Maria every day.
Saint Kateri Tekakwitha
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When Kateri was just a child, smallpox left her with poor vision and scars on her face. But Kateri was a strong and determined girl! She sought and found peace through Jesus, especially in the Eucharist. Scorned by her Mohawk tribe for that faith, Kateri traveled the wilderness by foot and canoe to live in a community with fellow Christians. She lived there happily until 1680 when she died from illness at the age of 24. Many call Kateri “The Lily of the Mohawks.”
Saint Thomas Aquinas
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Thomas Aquinas lived in the 13th century and is perhaps the most influential thinker in the Christian Church. He was called "Dumb Ox" by his teachers as a young boy, but the truth was that Thomas’ mind simply operated on a whole different level! Today, many view Thomas as a man who stands alongside the giants of philosophy, including Plato and Aristotle. Yet, in his final hours, even with all he had written, Aquinas said that the wonders of God made his writings as valuable as "straw."
Saint Lucy
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Young Lucy used to bring food and aid to fellow Christians hiding from persecutors during the third and fourth century. She used a candle-lit wreath to light her way and carried as much food as possible. But eventually, Lucy was captured and tortured. Her eyes were removed and she soon after died a martyr of the Faith. Today in Scandinavia, St. Lucy is considered a source of hope and light during the long dark winter months. Each year, prior to Christmas, towns gather to celebrate her light!
Saint Sebastian
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Sebastian was a captain of the Roman Praetorian Guard around the year 275. When his Christian faith was exposed to Emperor Diocletian, Sebastian was tied to a tree, shot full of arrows, and left for dead. He survived and set out to share his faith and story. Sebastian went to the steps of the emperor and spoke loudly against the persecution of Christans. He was captured again and beaten to death with clubs. For his physical endurance and passion, Sebastian is now the patron of athletes.
Saint Clare
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Influenced by her dear friend Francis of Assisi, Clare lived a life of poverty and piety. In the year 1244, Emperor Frederick II attacked Clare’s convent walls. Sick in her bed, Clare held the Eucharist high and prayed. The soldiers miraculously fled, no match for the faith of this humble nun. During her illness, God stayed close to Clare, even projecting daily Mass on her wall so she could participate from her sickbed! Today the Poor Clares are a beloved community known for their faith, simplicity and joy.
Saint Bernadette
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Bernadette Soubirous was only 14 years old when Mary appeared to her at a grotto in Lourdes, France. There, Mary told Bernadette to dig a small spring. The young girl was ridiculed by many for her claim, but eventually the miracles surrounding the apparitions attracted the world's attention. Today, more than five million people visit the grotto spring every year. Countless miracles, especially healings, are attributed to the miraculous waters of Lourdes.
Saint Monica
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Monica's husband led a scandalous life and influenced their son to do the same. But after years and years of Monica's patient prayer and example, both men amended their ways and converted to Christianity. And the story doesn’t end there. Monica’s son eventually became one of the most influential saints in history: St. Augustine. Because of her remarkable story, Monica is a source of comfort and peace for those with loved ones whose actions bring pain and concern to friends and family.
Blessed Pier Giorgio Frassati
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Pier Giorgio Frassati was born in 1901 in Turin, Italy. As a student activist and lay Dominican, Pier Giorgio strived to put Jesus’ teachings to practice throughout his community. His friends and family loved his sense of humor, kindness and courage. Pier Giorgio was known as an avid outdoorsman and is often depicted hiking and skiing! He died at the young age of 24, but his legacy lives on. In 1977 Pope John Paul II deemed Pier Giorgio “the man of the eight beatitudes."
Saint Philomena
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In 1802, the tomb of a 4th-century teenage girl was discovered with the inscription: Peace be with thee, Philomena. A young martyr, Philomena had refused the evil advances of Emperor Diocletian. He tried to have her killed by anchor drowning, then by archers, and then finally succeeded by lancing. But for centuries after, Philomena was unknown. When her tomb was discovered, miracles abounded. Since then, Philomena has stirred the hearts of millions (often through miracles) while bringing those who know her closer to Jesus.
Saint Louis and Saint Zelie Martin
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Louis and Zélie Martin married in the year 1858. Louis was a watchmaker, Zélie owned a lace business, and love radiated within their home in Alençon, France. But the Martins suffered immensely after losing four of their nine children at young ages. Their decision to endure those losses with their eyes fixed on Christ led to an intensified love for each other and for their children. But Zélie’s early death brought more challenges for the family. Again, Louis led his family with faith. An incredible testament to that faith is the Martin’s youngest daughter. You know her as St. Theresa the Little Flower!
Saint George
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George was a Christian in the Roman army during the reign of Emperor Diocletian, one of the most violent persecutors of Christians in history! George spoke openly against Diocletian and was killed for it around the year 300. But many stories of George’s bravery lived on. There is even a legend that he once slayed a man-eating dragon! What we know for sure is that this brave soldier was willing to risk everything to defend his faith in Jesus.
Saint Augustine
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Augustine was born in 354 A.D. in North Africa. He lived much of his life partying and spending wealth. But in time, through prayer, reflection and study, Augustine admitted his mistakes and wrote to God these words: "Restless is our heart until it rests in you." He eventually became a priest and bishop and shared the story of his conversion in an infamous autobiography called Confessions. Augustine wrote more than 200 other books and nearly a thousand sermons and letters.
Saint Peter
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Peter, a simple fisherman by trade, was far from perfect. The saying "ye of little faith" stems from St. Peter’s distrust when Jesus invited him to walk on water. It was Peter who impulsively severed the ear of one of the men sent to arrest Jesus. And it was Peter who denied Jesus three times after his capture. But it was also Peter, the first pope, upon whom Christ chose to build His church. Following Jesus’ ascension into Heaven, Peter proclaimed the Gospel with passion until he was martyred in 64 A.D.
Our Lady of Fatima
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In 1917, Mary appeared to three shepherd children in Fatima, Portugal. For the sixth and final apparition, tens of thousands of people gathered at the site. Many of them, including skeptical journalists, testified that the sun began to “dance in the sky”. Throughout 1917, in the midst of these wonders, Mary delivered many messages. Young Lúcia, one of the shepherd children, shared this one: "There is no problem, no matter how difficult it is...that cannot be solved by the Rosary."
Saint Gabriel
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Gabriel holds a special place in the story of our redemption. It was Gabriel who visited Mary to announce that God had chosen her to be the mother of Jesus. In fact, the words Gabriel spoke that day form much of the beloved “Hail Mary” prayer. Just a few months prior, Gabriel had announced the birth of John the Baptist in a similar way. Because of all this, he is often seen with a trumpet - a symbol of his role as a herald of wonderful news.
Saint Paul
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Paul is one of the most significant figures in all of Christian history. Once a vicious persecutor of Christians, Paul was literally thrown from his horse as God commanded him to change his ways. He became a follower of Christ and his letters are part of the Bible. Across cities, deserts and oceans, Paul devoted his life to the messages of Jesus. He was persecuted, imprisoned and eventually killed for it. Some say that in all of the world's history, no one has spread any message as well as St. Paul.
Saint Brigid of Ireland
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Brigid was born in Ireland around the year 450. Her father was a nobleman and her mother was a slave. Though she and her mother were rejected by her father, Brigid was inspired to faith by the teachings of St. Patrick. She founded several convents and even a school of art that specialized in decorative Irish manuscripts! It is said that when Brigid passed, her nuns kept a fire lit for centuries. It is tradition in Ireland to create small woven crosses each spring. They are called Brigid’s cross!
Saint Mary Magdalene
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Mary Magdalene is infamous for her name as well as her possibly checkered past. What many people do not know about Mary Magdalene is that she was present at the foot of the cross and was the very first person to whom the resurrected Jesus revealed himself! Although her full story is still a bit of a mystery, Mary Magdalene is beloved as an “every-woman” who, like all of us, was a sinner. But despite her human weaknesses, Jesus welcomed her into his closest circle of family and friends.
Our Lady of Lourdes
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In the French town of Lourdes, Mary appeared to 14-year-old Bernadette in 1858. She wore a beautiful white dress and blue sash with yellow roses at her feet. Bernadette hurried home to share what she had seen but was rebuked for lying. So, Mary instructed Bernadette to tell people she had seen the Immaculate Conception. This impressed local leaders and many healings and other miracles followed. Today, Lourdes is one of the most visited pilgrimage destinations in the world.
Saint Dymphna
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Dymphna was an Irish princess whose father became violent and dangerous with mental illness. Accompanied by her priest, court jester, and servants, Dymphna fled to a place called Gheel. There she used her wealth to build a hospital. When her father heard this, he found Dymphna and took her life while she defended her chastity. But the story did not end there. Under Dymphna’s patronage, Gheel has become a sanctuary of love, kindness and even miracles for those suffering from mental illness.
Saint Luke
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One of the four Gospel writers, Luke is known for his impressive writing skills which probably stemmed from his education. Luke was a physician by trade and a friend of St. Paul. Many believe he was also an artist. It appears that Luke set out to capture the history of Jesus through personal interviews with those who met Jesus. Luke’s Gospel emphasizes Jesus' compassion and patience with the sinners and the suffering. Luke also wrote the Acts of the Apostles.
Saint Ignatius of Loyola
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Enjoying the life among royals as an apprentice in Spain, Ignatius eventually went to war seeking more glory and fame. A serious cannonball injury left him recuperating in a hospital. During recovery, Ignatius read a book about the life of Christ and a book on the saints. This changed him forever. Eventually, his faith experiences inspired the famous Spiritual Exercises and even a new religious order called The Society of Jesus, or Jesuits. The Jesuit call is to be “contemplatives in action.”
