Faith can be a powerful source of strength during challenging times, especially for students. In the Catholic tradition, turning to prayer and seeking the intercession of saints can provide comfort and guidance. Here are five saints and accompanying prayers to help students who may need extra support in their academic and personal lives.
1. St. Thomas Aquinas: Patron Saint of Students
From a young age, St. Thomas Aquinas was encouraged by his family to pursue a monastic life. Despite his family's initial resistance, he joined the Dominican Order and became a renowned theologian. As the patron saint of students, his prayers are mighty for those seeking academic success.
A Student’s Prayer by St. Thomas Aquinas:
“Come, Holy Spirit, Divine Creator, true light source and fountain of wisdom! Pour forth your brilliance upon my dense intellect, dissipate the darkness which covers me, that of sin and ignorance. Grant me a penetrating mind to understand, a retentive memory, method and ease in learning, the lucidity to comprehend, and abundant grace in expressing myself. Guide the beginning of my work, direct its progress, and bring it to successful completion. This I ask through Jesus Christ, true God, and true man, living and reigning with You and the Father, forever and ever. Amen.”
2. St. John the Apostle: Patron Saint of Friendships
St. John the Apostle, entrusted by Jesus to care for His mother Mary, exemplifies the values of friendship and companionship. He is the patron saint of friendships, making his prayers perfect for those looking to strengthen their bonds with friends.
Prayer for Best Friends:
“Lord, you are our best friend and love us like none other. May my own best friend share in your goodness and love for me. Help each one of us to have a good friend who truly wants what is best for our souls. Thank you, Lord, for hearing my prayer.”
3. St. Joseph of Cupertino: Patron Saint of Studying
St. Joseph of Cupertino, known for overcoming learning and social challenges, is the patron saint of studying. His life story is an inspiration for students facing academic difficulties.
Prayer for Success in Exams:
“O, Great St. Joseph of Cupertino, who while on earth did obtain from God the grace to be asked at your examination only the questions you knew, obtain for me a like favor in the examinations for which I am now preparing. In return, I promise to make you known and cause you to be invoked. I will also imitate your life of prayer and devotion through Jesus Christ our Lord. St. Joseph of Cupertino, Pray for us. Amen.”
4. St. Francis de Sales: Patron Saint of Writers and Journalists
St. Francis de Sales, whose life was marked by dedication and faith, is the patron saint of writers and journalists. Those who wish to convey their thoughts and creativity through writing seek his intercession.
Prayer for Writers:
“May the Lord guide me and all those who write. Through your prayers, St. Frances de Sales, I ask for your intercession as I attempt to bring the written word to the world. Let us pray that God takes me in His hand and inspires my creativity and success. St. Francis de Sales, you understand the dedication required. Pray for God to inspire and allow ideas to flow. In His name, let my words reflect my faith for others to read. Amen.”
5. St. Expeditus: Patron Saint of Procrastination
Though his background is somewhat mysterious, St. Expeditus is known as the patron saint of procrastination. He is invoked by those seeking to overcome delays and take immediate action.
Prayer to Overcome Procrastination:
“St. Expedite, the witness of Faith to the point of martyrdom, in the exercise of Good, you make tomorrow today. You live in the fast time of the last minute, always projecting yourself toward the future. Expedite and give strength to the heart of the man who doesn’t look back and who doesn’t postpone. Amen.”
Embracing the Power of Prayer
Faith and prayer can be sources of strength and guidance, especially for students facing academic and personal challenges. Students can find support and peace by turning to these saints and their prayers as they navigate their educational journey and personal growth.