Have you noticed that where one saint is found, others are often nearby?
Timmerie recently pointed to the old adage, it’s not what you know but who you know. Isn’t that true when it comes to the faith? Holy, saintly people often surround themselves with other holy people. Ones who can help guide, instruct, and support them in their faith journey. This isn’t an easy road and certainly not one that we can walk alone.
Saints travel in packs, Timmerie explained on Trending with Timmerie. She gave the example of Saint Polycarp. Polycarp was an apostle of St. John. Polycarp also instructed St. Irenaeus. St. Polycarp traveled to Rome to meet the pope, St. Anicetus, and he also kissed the chains of St. Ignatius of Antioch as he was led away for martyrdom.
This isn’t just a group of some well-connected people. It’s faithful, holy people who sought out those who could guide them in their faith and they also instructed and passed the faith on to others.
There are many examples of saints who were friends with or were related to other saints. Here are a few examples:
- Saints Louis and Zelie Martin, parents of St. Therese
- Saint Monica and her son, Saint Augustine, who was instructed by St. Ambrose
- St. Francis and St. Clare of Assisi
- St. Felicity and St. Perpetua
Why does it matter that these saints knew other saints? It’s more than just knowing someone who is holy, it’s a mutual support of one another throughout life. “One thing that saints did really well—one thing that the early Church did really well—is they encouraged one another in the faith,” explained Timmerie.
“If we can build up each other now in the Church, we will become better communicators; we will become better sources of mentorship,” she said. We can be inviting, welcoming, and offer encouragement to others. “Evangelization is personal,” and to be effective, it requires relationship and authenticity.
Who can you build up in their faith today? And who can you turn to for inspiration and support?
Tune in to Trending with Timmerie weekdays at 6-7pm CT only on Relevant Radio®.
