St. Joseph of Arimathea
A wealthy member of the Sanhedrin and secret disciple of Jesus, who courageously asked Pilate for the body of Christ after the Crucifixion and laid him in his own new tomb (Matthew 27:57-60; John 19:38-42). Medieval English tradition holds that he later traveled to Britain bearing the Holy Grail and founded the first Christian community at Glastonbury, though this legend is not historically verifiable. He is venerated wherever the dignity of Christian burial is honored.
Life & Times
Also known as: The Disciple from Arimathea · Born: 1st century · Died: 1st century · From: Arimathea, Judea; Britain (per medieval tradition).
Patronage
St. Joseph of Arimathea is invoked as the patron of funeral directors, pallbearers, tin miners, the dying. Those in these callings or circumstances often turn to this saint in prayer.
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About Catholic Saints
Catholic saints, including St. Joseph of Arimathea, are Christians whom the Catholic Church has formally recognized as having lived lifes of heroic holiness and who now dwell with God in heaven, offering an example of faith for those still on their earthly journey. Catholics don't worship saints, but ask them to pray to God with us and for us — much as one might ask a trusted friend to pray for them — trusting that those closest to God can join their voices to ours before Him. Discover more saints in the Catholic Shop Saints section.