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Portrait of St. Zacharias
A portrait of St. Zacharias

St. Zacharias

1st century BC – 1st century BC/AD
Feast
September 5 · I c.
Patron of
Fathers · Priests · Parents · Hope in old age
Order
Biblical Saint / Priest

Jewish priest of the course of Abijah (Lk 1:5-25, 57-79), husband of St. Elizabeth, father of St. John the Baptist; struck mute by the angel Gabriel for incredulity at the announcement of John's conception, regained speech at the circumcision and pronounced the Benedictus. Pre-Congregation.

Life & Times

Born: 1st century BC · Died: 1st century BC/AD · From: Judea / Jerusalem.

Patronage

St. Zacharias is invoked as the patron of fathers, priests, parents, hope in old age. Those in these callings or circumstances often turn to this saint in prayer.

“Blessed be the Lord God of Israel, for he has visited and redeemed his people.”
— Gospel of Luke 1:68 — opening of the Benedictus, prayed at the circumcision of John the Baptist.

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About Catholic Saints

Catholic saints, including St. Zacharias, 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.