St. Christopher

His story

Tradition says Christopher sought to serve the greatest king, learned that Jesus is King of kings (Revelation 17:14), and was baptized (see Acts 2:37-39). He carried travelers across a dangerous river. One day a child grew heavier with every step until Christopher nearly drowned; the child revealed himself as Jesus. In Jacobus de Voragine's Golden Legend, the Child tells him he carried the Creator of the world, and his staff, planted in the earth, bore leaves and fruit the next morning.

His name, from Greek Christos and pherein (Latin Christophorus), means "Christ-bearer." He was martyred, reportedly in the 250s. A church built in Bithynia in the early 450s and other evidence from the 500s and early 600s testify to his historicity. Tradition adds that he told the blinded king of Lycia to rub his blood on his eyes; the king was cured and converted, reminding us to pray for our persecutors (see Matthew 5:43-48). Martyrs show the ultimate discipleship (see John 13:34; 15:13).

Patron of travelers

He is patron of travelers, motorists, sailors and pilgrims. Every journey should be made with Christ and as his ambassador (see 2 Corinthians 5:18-20). We ask his prayers not because he has power apart from God but because the saints intercede in communion with the Lord (see Revelation 5:8; Hebrews 12:23).

Is he still a saint?

Yes. In 1969 the General Roman Calendar was revised, removing some saints whose cult was less universal to make room for martyrs from lands evangelized later. St. Paul VI's Mysterii Paschalis explains this. Christopher was never "de-canonized" or declared a myth, and Mass may be offered in his honor on his feast.

The St. Christopher medal

The medal is not a good-luck charm; Catholics do not place idolatrous trust in objects (see CCC 2115-2117). It is a sacramental reminding us to pray and trust in Jesus, often given before military service, college or travel, to keep Christ at the center and bear witness to him (see 1 Peter 3:15).

What he represents

Christopher symbolizes carrying Christ into the world in thought, word and deed (see Colossians 3:15-17), serving humbly and trusting God when the way seems impossible. (The island of Saint Kitts was historically called Saint Christopher.)