The Intercession of the Saints: Why Do Catholics Ask for Their Help?

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In the vast and profound ocean of the Catholic faith, one of the topics that most intrigues and fascinates those who approach it is the intercession of the saints. Why do Catholics turn to the saints to ask for their help? Isn’t it enough to go directly to God? These questions, though valid, reveal a lack of understanding of the theological and spiritual richness that underlies this ancient practice. In this article, we will explore the biblical foundation, the theological relevance, and the practical applications of the intercession of the saints, with the aim of educating, inspiring, and guiding those who seek to deepen their relationship with God and with the communion of saints.

The Biblical Foundation of the Intercession of the Saints

The intercession of the saints is not a human invention but a practice rooted in Sacred Scripture. In the Old Testament, we see how the righteous intercede for the people. For example, Abraham intercedes for Sodom (Genesis 18:22-33), and Moses intercedes for the Israelites (Exodus 32:11-14). In the New Testament, Saint Paul asks for prayers for himself (Romans 15:30) and assures that he prays for others (Ephesians 1:16). Additionally, the Book of Revelation shows the saints offering the prayers of the faithful to God (Revelation 5:8; 8:3-4).

These biblical passages reveal a fundamental truth: intercession is a reality in God’s plan. The saints, as living members of the Body of Christ, participate in this work of intercession. They, who have attained the fullness of life in Christ, are closer to God and, therefore, can intercede for us more effectively.

The Theological Relevance of the Intercession of the Saints

The intercession of the saints is based on two essential theological pillars: the communion of saints and the mediation of Christ.

1. The Communion of Saints: The Catechism of the Catholic Church teaches us that the communion of saints is the spiritual union among all the members of the Church: those who are pilgrims on earth, those who are being purified in purgatory, and those who enjoy the beatific vision in heaven (CCC 946-959). This communion is not limited to earth but extends to heaven and purgatory. The saints, far from being isolated in their glory, are deeply united to us and actively participate in our spiritual lives.
2. The Mediation of Christ: The intercession of the saints does not replace or diminish the unique and universal mediation of Christ. On the contrary, it presupposes and depends on it. Christ is the one mediator between God and humanity (1 Timothy 2:5), but He Himself has chosen to associate His Church with His work of salvation. The saints, as members of His Body, participate in this mediation in a subordinate and dependent manner on Christ. Their intercession is a reflection and extension of Christ’s intercession.

The Practical Applications of the Intercession of the Saints

The intercession of the saints is not merely a pious devotion but a practice with profound implications for our spiritual lives. Here are some practical applications:

1. Strengthens Our Faith and Hope: By turning to the saints, we are reminded that eternal life is an attainable reality. The saints are living witnesses that it is possible to live in holiness and attain the glory of God. Their example encourages us to persevere in faith and to trust in Christ’s promises.
2. Connects Us with the Living Tradition of the Church: The saints are part of the great cloud of witnesses that surround us (Hebrews 12:1). By invoking their intercession, we unite ourselves to the living tradition of the Church and feel part of a spiritual family that transcends time and space.
3. Helps Us Overcome Individualism: In a world marked by individualism, the intercession of the saints reminds us that we are not alone. We are part of a community of believers who support one another in prayer. The saints, as older brothers and sisters in the faith, accompany and sustain us on our journey toward God.
4. Provides Models of Virtue: Each saint is a model of virtue and a reflection of God’s holiness. By learning about their lives and asking for their intercession, we are inspired to imitate their virtues and grow in our own holiness.

How to Apply the Intercession of the Saints in Daily Life

The intercession of the saints is not a practice reserved for moments of crisis or extreme need. It can and should be part of our daily lives. Here are some suggestions for integrating this practice into your spiritual routine:

1. Choose a Patron Saint: Identify a saint with whom you feel a special connection, whether because of their life, virtues, or intercession in a specific need. You can choose your patron saint based on your name, profession, or personal interests.
2. Pray the Rosary with the Saints: The Rosary is a wonderful prayer that allows us to meditate on the mysteries of Christ’s life alongside the Virgin Mary. You can ask for the intercession of the saints while praying each mystery, offering their virtues as a model for your life.
3. Celebrate the Feasts of the Saints: The feasts of the saints are an opportunity to deepen your understanding of their lives and spirituality. Participate in liturgical celebrations, read about their lives, and ask for their intercession in your needs.
4. Ask for Their Intercession in Daily Needs: Do not hesitate to ask for the intercession of the saints in the concrete needs of your life. Whether at work, in your family, for health, or in the struggle against sin, the saints are ready to help you.
5. Imitate Their Virtues: The best way to honor the saints is to imitate their virtues. Identify the virtues you most admire in them and strive to live them out in your daily life.

Conclusion: United in Prayer

The intercession of the saints is a precious gift that the Church offers us. It reminds us that we are not alone on our journey toward God but are part of a great spiritual family that accompanies and sustains us. By turning to the saints, we not only receive their help but also join in their praise and thanksgiving to God.

As the Apostle Saint Paul tells us: “For this reason, since the day we heard about you, we have not stopped praying for you. We continually ask God to fill you with the knowledge of his will through all the wisdom and understanding that the Spirit gives” (Colossians 1:9). May this teaching on the intercession of the saints inspire us to deepen our relationship with God and with the communion of saints, and may it encourage us to live our faith with greater fervor and hope.

In this world full of challenges and difficulties, let us remember that we are surrounded by a great cloud of witnesses who intercede for us. Let us trust in their help and follow their example, so that one day we too may attain the glory of heaven and join them in the eternal praise of God. Amen.