Catholic Saints

St. John Damascene, born around 675 AD in Damascus, was a monk, theologian, and hymnographer known for his eloquent defense of Christian doctrine. A staunch opponent of iconoclasm, he championed the veneration of holy images and wrote extensively to uphold orthodox teachings. His works, including The Fountain of Knowledge, profoundly shaped Christian theology and philosophy. St. John passed away in 749 AD, and his feast day is celebrated on December 4 as a tribute to his wisdom and devotion.

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St. Francis Xavier, born in 1506 in Navarre, Spain, was a Jesuit missionary and one of the founding members of the Society of Jesus. Renowned for his zeal in spreading Christianity, he traveled extensively, preaching in India, Japan, and Southeast Asia, baptizing thousands. Known for his humility and dedication, he learned local languages and adapted to cultures to effectively share his faith. Francis Xavier passed away on December 3, 1552, near China, and is celebrated as the patron saint of missions and missionaries.

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All saints had a story before they met Jesus. For St. Andrew, he was a fisherman. Hearing the call of Christ, Andrew and his brother Peter left everything behind to follow Jesus. Join Dr. Ben Akers and Mary McGeehan as they discuss St. Andrew, his life, and the example he provides to all Christians.

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Saint Catherine of Alexandria, a 4th-century Christian martyr, was known for her intelligence, beauty, and steadfast faith. She boldly debated Emperor Maxentius and his scholars, converting many before being imprisoned and martyred for refusing to renounce Christianity. Venerated as the patroness of philosophers and scholars, her legacy inspires courage and devotion.

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Sit down with Dr. Ben Akers and Dr. Carl Vennerstrom as they discuss Pope St. Clement of Rome, who was an early Church Father and the third successor to St. Peter. He wrote an original letter to the dissentient church of Corinth that we can still read and access today! His feast day is November 23. St. Clement, pray for us! 

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Join Dr. Tim Gray and Paul McCusker as they discuss St. Cecilia and the role of Art and Beauty in the New Evangelization.

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St. Rose Philippine Duchesne (1769–1852) was a French missionary and a member of the Society of the Sacred Heart who dedicated her life to education and service on the American frontier. After enduring the hardships of the French Revolution, she answered the call to missionary work, establishing schools for Native Americans and settlers in the United States, particularly in Missouri and Kansas. Known for her deep spirituality and devotion, she was called the “Woman Who Prays Always” by the Potawatomi people. Canonized in 1988, her life exemplifies perseverance, cultural bridge-building, and an unwavering commitment to Christ.

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St. Albert the Great (1200–1280), also known as Albertus Magnus, was a German Dominican friar, bishop, scholar, and one of the most influential figures of the medieval Church. Renowned as a "Doctor Universalis" (Universal Doctor), he was a polymath who made significant contributions to theology, philosophy, and the natural sciences. A pioneer in integrating Aristotelian philosophy with Christian theology, St. Albert was a mentor to St. Thomas Aquinas and a key figure in the development of Scholasticism. His vast knowledge spanned subjects such as biology, chemistry, astronomy, and ethics, earning him recognition as the patron saint of scientists. Declared a Doctor of the Church in 1931, St. Albert's legacy continues to inspire those who seek harmony between faith and reason.

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Saint Didacus of Alcalá (c. 1400–1463), also known as Diego de San Nicolás, was a Spanish Franciscan lay brother celebrated for his humility, charity, and deep spirituality. Born in San Nicolás del Puerto, Andalusia, he initially lived as a hermit before joining the Franciscan Order. Didacus served as a missionary in the Canary Islands, where he was appointed guardian of the Franciscan community on Fuerteventura, an exceptional role for a lay brother. In 1450, he traveled to Rome for the canonization of Saint Bernardine of Siena and remained there to care for friars afflicted by an epidemic, reportedly performing miraculous healings. After returning to Spain, he spent his remaining years in contemplation and service, passing away in Alcalá de Henares on November 12, 1463. Canonized in 1588, he is the patron saint of the city of San Diego, California, which was named in his honor.  

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Join Dr. Ben Akers and Dr. Carl Vennerstrom as they discuss St. Leo the Great, who served as pope during the tumultuous time of the Council of Chalcedon. With the heart of a pastor, St. Leo modeled Christian charity amidst the debates and controversies on the divine and human nature of Jesus. He blessed the Church by using his gift of administration to create a healthy bureaucracy where brotherly love could flourish. 

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