Saints Joachim and Anne, parents of the Blessed Virgin Mary, hold a significant place in Catholic tradition and devotion.
Their feast day is celebrated on July 26th.
Although the Gospels do not explicitly mention Saints Joachim and Anne, their veneration grew over the centuries, eventually leading to their recognition as saints in the Catholic Church.
These saints were blessed in their old age with the miraculous conception of Mary, who became the Mother of Jesus Christ. The birth of the Virgin Mary set the stage for the fulfillment of God's plan for the redemption of humanity.
Saints Joachim and Anne are considered the patron saints of grandparents and models of holy parenthood. Their intercession is sought by those seeking a spouse and couples struggling with infertility.
We celebrate these saints as a reminder of their profound impact on salvation history and their unique role in the Holy Family.
Below are three historic works of art depicting Saints Joachim and Anne, followed by a powerful prayer for their intercession:
Prayer for the Intercession of Saints Joachim and Anne
O Holy Mother and Father of the Blessed Virgin Mary,
as parents, you guided and nurtured Mary and,
under your protection and love,
watched her grow in holiness.
Through your faithfulness and goodness,
the Will of God was fulfilled;
the fruits of your virtue and faith
brought salvation to the whole world
with the birth of the baby Jesus.
Most Holy Saints Anne and Joachim,
come close to us and guide our hands
and our hearts in the way of virtue.
Help us to parent our children and grandchildren
with a gentle heart as you did.
Show us how to raise our children in faith
and bring our families into the Light of Jesus.
Remain close to us and help us on our journey to salvation.
Saints Anne and Joachim,
we place our petitions in your hands
and ask that you lay them before the child Jesus.
Seek this, my favor
[State your request…]
but only if it be for the greater glory of God
and the good of my soul.
Our Father… Hail Mary… Glory Be…