In Matthew 6:24, Jesus cautions His disciples about the peril of serving two masters, warning that devotion to wealth can lead one away from serving God. Indeed, greed, whether individual or corporate, has the power to devastate lives, careers, relationships, and communities, hindering our ability to fulfill God's will and love others as ourselves.
Despite the dangers of greed, there are moments when we face financial adversity, whether through unexpected job loss, lack of opportunities, health issues, or burdensome debts. In such times, it's crucial to turn to God in prayer, seeking His guidance and provision.
10 saints, along with additional details about their associations with financial struggles:
Saint Joseph: As the earthly father of Jesus and the patron saint of workers, Saint Joseph is revered for his humility, hard work, and provision for the Holy Family. He is often invoked for assistance in matters of employment, financial stability, and the welfare of families.
Saint Jude Thaddeus: Known as the patron saint of desperate cases, Saint Jude is sought after for his intercession in seemingly hopeless situations, including financial difficulties. Devotees trust in his ability to bring about miraculous solutions and unexpected blessings.
Saint Anthony of Padua: Recognized for his miracles, particularly in finding lost items, Saint Anthony is also invoked for help in financial matters. Many believe that his intercession can lead to the recovery of lost finances, as well as providing for material needs.
Saint Expeditus: Although less well-known, Saint Expeditus is revered for his prompt assistance in urgent matters, including financial crises. Devotees believe that he can swiftly intercede to alleviate financial burdens and bring about favorable outcomes.
Saint Therese of Lisieux: Despite being known as the patron saint of missions and missionaries, Saint Therese is also turned to for help in financial struggles. Her "Little Way" teaches simplicity, trust, and reliance on God's providence, inspiring hope in times of scarcity.
Saint Rita of Cascia: Revered as the patron saint of impossible causes, Saint Rita is invoked by those facing challenging circumstances, including financial hardships. Her life story of perseverance and faith amid adversity offers solace and encouragement to those in need.
Saint Matthew the Apostle: As one of the twelve apostles and the patron saint of accountants, bankers, and financial advisors, Saint Matthew's intercession is sought for wisdom in financial matters. Devotees pray for responsible stewardship, abundance in resources, and guidance in financial decision-making.
Saint Elizabeth of Portugal: Known for her compassion and generosity toward the poor, Saint Elizabeth is venerated for her acts of charity and concern for those in need. She is invoked for assistance in times of financial struggle, promoting a spirit of generosity and trust in God's provision.
Saint Clare of Assisi: The founder of the Order of Poor Ladies (Poor Clares), Saint Clare embraced a life of poverty and simplicity. She is revered for her trust in divine providence and is invoked for help in financial difficulties, encouraging reliance on God's care and provision.
Saint Lawrence: Recognized for his selfless acts of charity and martyrdom, Saint Lawrence is venerated as the patron saint of cooks, butchers, and, importantly, the poor. He is invoked for assistance in financial matters, inspiring generosity and compassion toward those in need.
Short prayers to each of the ten saints mentioned:
- Saint Joseph:"Saint Joseph, patron of workers and provider for the Holy Family, intercede for us in our financial needs. Help us to work diligently and trust in God's provision for our families. Amen."
- Saint Jude Thaddeus:"Saint Jude, patron of desperate cases, we turn to you in our financial struggles. Pray for us, that we may find hope and assistance in our time of need. Amen."
- Saint Anthony of Padua:"Saint Anthony, finder of lost items and helper in financial troubles, we seek your intercession. Guide us to the resources we need and bless us with financial stability. Amen."
- Saint Expeditus:"Saint Expeditus, patron of urgent causes, come to our aid in our financial crisis. Hear our prayers and swiftly intercede on our behalf. Amen."
- Saint Therese of Lisieux:"Saint Therese, model of simplicity and trust in God's providence, pray for us in our financial worries. Help us to find peace and hope in the midst of scarcity. Amen."
- Saint Rita of Cascia:"Saint Rita, patroness of impossible causes, we entrust our financial struggles to your care. Intercede for us and grant us the strength to persevere in faith. Amen."
- Saint Matthew the Apostle:"Saint Matthew, patron of accountants and financial advisors, guide us in our financial decisions. Help us to manage our resources wisely and to seek God's will in all our endeavors. Amen."
- Saint Elizabeth of Portugal:"Saint Elizabeth, model of charity and generosity, pray for us in our financial difficulties. Inspire us to share our blessings with others and to trust in God's abundant provision. Amen."
- Saint Clare of Assisi:"Saint Clare, exemplar of poverty and trust in God, be our advocate in times of financial need. Teach us to rely on God's care and to embrace simplicity in our lives. Amen."
- Saint Lawrence:"Saint Lawrence, patron of the poor and martyr for Christ, intercede for us in our financial struggles. Help us to show compassion and generosity to those in need, and grant us strength and courage in times of trial. Amen."