9 Patron Saints for Catholic Athletes You Should Know Ahead of the 2024 Summer Olympics
The Paris 2024 Olympic Games kick off with the opening ceremony on Fri., July 26.
While you’re tuning into the summer Olympic events this year, remember to pray for the athletes! They need our prayers for their mental, physical, and spiritual wellness.
Saint Sebastian is known as the overarching go-to patron saint for Catholic athletes. However, we miss out on many additional intercessory companions without considering the list below of saints for Catholic athletes!
1. Saint Sebastian
While we don’t necessarily know if this 3rd-century soldier and martyr was an athlete himself, we do know that his qualities of strength and courage make him a patron saint fit for athletes.
Saint Sebastian, Pray for Us!
2. Saint John Paul II
Karol Wojtyla was an avid skier and hiker. He also played soccer as a child! As pope, he spoke of the power of athletics when it came to young people, saying, “Sports contribute to the love of life, and teach sacrifice, respect, and responsibility, leading to the full development of every human person.”
Saint John Paul the Great, Pray for Us!
3. Blessed Pier Giorgio Frassatti
Frassatti was often photographed scaling mountains, hiking with friends, skiing, and riding horses. You can learn more about this soon-to-be saint here.
Blessed Pier Giorgio Frassatti, Pray for Us!
4. Blessed Chiara Badano
She is the perfect saintly intercessor for swimmers, dancers, and tennis players.
Blessed Chiara Bando, Pray for Us!
5. Blessed Michael McGivney
This American Catholic priest was not only the founder of the Knights of Columbus, but he also played baseball! You can find more information about his love of the game here.
Saint Michael McGivney, Pray for Us!
6. Saint Teresa of the Andes
This inspiring Carmelite loved to swim and ride horses. She was also a talented dancer and tennis player.
Saint Teresa of the Andes, Pray for Us!
7. Saint Joseph Mukasa Balikuddembe
Joseph was a talented runner, avid wrestler, and a Catholic convert. This Ugandan Catholic martyr is also a model of leadership.
Saint Joseph Mukasa Balikuddembe, Pray for Us!
8. Saint Christopher
Again, we don’t have reason to believe that Saint Christopher participated in organized sports, but he is known as the faithful patron of travelers and sought for protection during sports games.
Saint Christopher, Pray for Us!
9. Saint Michael the Archangel
Whether it’s for spiritual or physical protection, Saint Michael the Archangel is a go-to for athletes!
Saint Michael the Archangel, Pray for Us!
Below is the Church’s official prayer for sports events previously published by National Catholic Register:
Strong and faithful God,
as we come together for this contest,
we ask you to bless these athletes.
Keep them safe from injury and harm,
instill in them respect for each other,
and reward them for their perseverance.
Lead us all to the rewards of your kingdom
where you live and reign forever and ever.
Amen.