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Patron saint

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In several forms of the church of Christianity, but especially in the Catholic Church, a patron saint has special affinity for a trade or group. St. Florian is the patron saint of firefighters, and St. Christopher is the patron saint of travellers, for example. Eastern Orthodoxy generally doesn't associate saints with occupations and activities, or does so to a much lesser degree.

Patron saints can also be associated with geographical areas (depending on where they were born or where they preached). For example, St. Joseph is the patron saint of Belgium, St. Patrick is patron saint of Ireland, and Saint Anthony is the patron saint of Lisbon. Oftentimes, certain patron saints may have only a nominal relationship with the trade or group that they represent, as is the case with St. George of England.

Association with a particular area or profession can be found with tutelary deities from other religions as well.

Contents

Saints associated with occupations and activities

Occupations and activities under the patronage of Mary

The Blessed Virgin Mary may be taken as a patroness of any good activity; indeed, she is cited as the patroness of all humanity. However, certain occupations and activities are more closely associated with her protection.

Saints associated with countries, nations, regions, cities and towns

A good number also have a specific title, often 'Apostle of -' if they played a major rule in (early or decisive) conversion, of the place.

Countries and places under Mary's patronage

A large number of countries, places and groups claim the Blessed Virgin Mary as a patroness, though usually under a specific title or apparition.

Dioceses claiming Mary as patron

Non-saint patrons

In some case the celestial patronage is not assigned to a canonized person, but to a liturgical feast and/or (often associated) aspect of God or the Virgin Mary which is held in similar reverence (though unlike a saint it cannot actually intercede with God).

Saints associated with protection from ailments or illness

Other protective help

See also

External links

 

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