St. Rachel

Biography of St. Rachel

St. Rachel is a saint in the Roman Catholic Church, she is considered the patron saint of travelers and converts. However, there is little historical information available about her life. The historical existence of St. Rachel as a person can not be confirmed and is rather considered a symbolic representation.

In the Bible, Rachel is the second wife of Jacob and the mother of Joseph and Benjamin. Rachel is also considered a foremother of the Jewish people, as Joseph was one of the twelve tribes of Israel. Rachel is remembered for her devotion to her children and her faith in God. In the Bible, Rachel is described as being a woman of great beauty, but also of great piety and compassion.

According to tradition, St. Rachel died in childbirth while giving birth to her son Benjamin, She is said to have been buried on the road to Efrat, also known as Bethlehem, which is considered the traditional birthplace of Jesus. It is believed that her tomb was visited by many people over the centuries, who sought her intercession and protection, especially travelers.

In the Catholic Church, St. Rachel is invoked as a protector of travelers and converts, as well as a helper in times of need. Her feast day is celebrated on September 23. She is also considered the patron saint of pregnant women.

In art, Rachel is usually depicted with a lamb, a symbol of her innocence, purity, and motherly love. Also she is sometime shown with a scroll or a book, which represents her wisdom and learning.

Throughout history, many churches, monasteries and chapels were built and dedicated to St. Rachel, specially along pilgrimage routes, for the travelers to pray for her protection.

St. Rachel is honored by Eastern Orthodox, Oriental Orthodox, and Byzantine Catholics. In the Eastern Church, her feast day is celebrated on December 24, She is also honored as one of the Foremothers of Jesus in the Eastern Christian tradition.

In modern times, St. Rachel continues to be an inspiration and a source of comfort for people who are seeking guidance and protection on their journey of faith. Her example of devotion, selflessness, and faithfulness to God is an inspiration to all who seek to live a life of holiness and service.

Prayers to St. Rachel

Dear St. Rachel, you were a woman of great faith and devotion, and we turn to you now in prayer. You were the wife of Jacob, who loved and cherished you deeply, and you were also the mother of Joseph and Benjamin. Through your example, teach us to love and cherish our own families, to provide them with the guidance and protection they need, and to give them the gift of your own powerful intercession. We pray for your intercession for families everywhere, for protection and peace within them, for healthy and holy relationships and for the gift of faith for all members. Amen.

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O St. Rachel, you were a woman of great compassion and tenderness, and you were known for your deep love for your children. We ask for your intercession as we strive to be mothers and fathers after your example. Help us to be patient and loving as we guide and teach our children, and grant us the grace to discern the needs of our families. Through your powerful intercession, may we be blessed with children who are kind, faithful, and obedient to God. We also ask that you intercede for all mothers and fathers who are going through difficult times and help them to find the strength and grace they need to care for their families. Amen.

Popular St. Rachel Medal and St. Rachel Rosary

St. Rachel is the patron saint of infertility and travelers.

St. Rachel is believed to have been the wife of the biblical patriarch Jacob and the mother of Joseph and Benjamin. Her feast day is celebrated on September 23rd. According to tradition, St. Rachel is considered the patron saint of infertility because she had difficulty bearing children. She is also invoked by travelers for her supposed intercession in ensuring safe journeys.

Saints Similar to St. Rachel

You may also be interested in reading the St. Ruth. St. Rachel and St. Ruth are figures from the Old Testament. Their commonality is based on their roles in biblical narratives and their virtuous lives. Next up: Biography of St. Rafka

 

Also check out our handmade St. Rachel Medal and St. Rachel Rosary and St. Rachel Rosary Bracelet .