Saint
Christopher is known as the Patron Saint of travelers. Respected as one of the 14 Holy Helpers, St.
Christopher is especially revered by athletes, mariners, motorists,travelers
and me. It is widely believed that he
provides protection to travelers and against sudden demise.
Legend has
it that Christopher was a 7 ½’ tall Canaanite with an alarming face. While serving the king of Canaan, Christopher
was inspired to go and serve “the greatest king there was”. During his quest to find Christ, he met a
hermit who taught him about as well as baptized him in the name of Christ.
Christopher had a strong desire to serve
Christ. Because of his great size and
strength, the hermit proposed Christopher could serve and please Christ by assisting
people across a dangerous river where many had perished during their
attempt. After having performed this
service for quite some time, a small child asked Christopher to carry him
across the river. While they were
crossing, the river swelled and the child’s weight seemed to increase with
every passing second. Christopher struggled
to carry him. When they were safely on
other side of the river, Christopher told the child “you have put me in the
greatest danger.” The child responded to
Christopher, “you had on your shoulders not only the whole world but He who
created it. I am Christ your King whom
you are serving by this good work.”
Medals with
St. Christopher’s name and/or image are worn by travelers to show devotion to
as well as be blessed and protected by this Patron saint.
