Meet the Patron Saints of Grandparents
Why Sts. Joachim and Anne Are the Patron Saints of Grandparents
St. Joachim and St. Anne were the parents of the Blessed Virgin Mary and the grandparents of Jesus. We know little of their lives because they are not mentioned in Scripture. Their names appear in an ancient non-biblical text called the “Protoevangelium of James,” which reveals that they struggled with infertility until God answered their prayers and St. Anne conceived our Lady.
They were the first to introduce Mary to the worship of the one true God, modeling for Catholic parents and grandparents the importance of spiritually influencing future generations.
St. Joachim is also the patron saint of grandfathers and St. Anne is the patron saint of grandmothers.
For Centuries, Catholics Have Venerated These Saintly Grandparents
The Catholic Church celebrates the feast of Sts. Joachim and Anne on July 26. They have been venerated by Christians since at least the sixth century A.D.
As the patron saints of grandparents, St. Joachim and St. Anne are powerful intercessors for grandparents and their grandchildren.
If you’d like to entrust your grandchildren to Sts. Joachim and Anne’s prayers, join our Society of Sts. Joachim and Anne. You’ll also enjoy access to many exclusive resources that will help you become a multigenerational spiritual leader.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are there any miracles attributed to the intercession of St. Joachim and/or St. Anne?
While most have not been investigated by the Church, there are numerous miracles attributed to these holy grandparents, especially St. Anne. For example, many visitors who have prayed to St. Anne at the Sainte-Anne-de-Beaupré Shrine have reported miraculous healings from chronic illness and physical disabilities.
Are there any other saints who were grandparents?
Yes, there are many, including Sts. Monica, Gorgonia, Thomas More, Helena, Louis IX and Elizabeth of Hungary. Some had grandchildren who were also saints — for example, St. Macrina the Elder was the grandmother of St. Macrina the Younger and the Church Fathers St. Basil the Great and St. Gregory of Nyssa, among other saintly grandkids.
What is the role of grandparents in the Catholic Church?
Grandparents are called to be multigenerational spiritual leaders for their families. They pray for and with their grandchildren and share with them the treasures of Catholic belief and practice.
Do You Have Questions About the Society of Sts. Joachim and Anne?
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