Saint of the Day

 

Saints Anne and Joachim are revered as the parents of the Virgin Mary and the grandparents of Jesus Christ in the Catholic, Eastern Orthodox, and Oriental Orthodox traditions.

*Saint Anne:*

- Born: Unknown, possibly in Bethlehem or Nazareth

- Died: Unknown, possibly in Jerusalem

- Feast day: July 26 (Western Christianity), September 9 (Eastern Christianity)

- Patronage: Mothers, grandmothers, women in labor, and the city of Detroit

Anne is often depicted in art as an older woman, sometimes teaching Mary to read or holding her as a child. Her name "Anne" (Hannah in Hebrew) means "gracious" or "favored one."

*Saint Joachim:*

- Born: Unknown, possibly in Nazareth

- Died: Unknown, possibly in Jerusalem

- Feast day: July 26 (Western Christianity), September 9 (Eastern Christianity)

- Patronage: Fathers, grandfathers, and the city of Quebec

Joachim is often depicted in art as a older man, sometimes offering a sacrifice at the temple or standing with Anne and Mary.

*Legend and Tradition:*

According to tradition, Anne and Joachim were childless for many years, and their prayers for a child were answered when Anne conceived Mary. They dedicated Mary to God's service, and she was raised in the temple.

The Protoevangelium of James (2nd century) and the Gospel of the Nativity of Mary (5th century) provide the basis for the legends surrounding Anne and Joachim. While these accounts are not considered historically reliable, they have contributed to the rich tradition and devotion surrounding these saints.

*Veneration:*

Saints Anne and Joachim are revered as models of faith, perseverance, and devotion to family and God. Their feast day is celebrated on July 26 in the Western Christian tradition and September 9 in the Eastern Christian tradition.