The Feast of St. Barbara

Sometimes solitude can be an opportunity to encounter Christ.

During this busy season, it may be difficult to find solitude, unless life hands you that situation. Instead of impatience, use it as a rare opportunity to go inside yourself to encounter Christ.

The 4th of December is the Feast of St. Barbara. An early Christian martyr, Barbara was the daughter of a wealthy pagan. There is a vivid legend about this obscure saint. Apparently, Saint Barbara was a maiden of great beauty whose father locked her in a tower to remove her from many ardent suitors who were not to his liking. He also wanted to keep her from indulging in a habit of constantly helping the poor. He kept her locked in a tower, which became her main symbol. Barbara is the patron saint of architects, mathematicians, and prisoners.

The United States Army Field Artillery Association and the United States Army Air Defense Artillery Association host the Order of Saint Barbara as an honorary society within the military.

St. Barbara is depicted with small chains, standing by or holding a tower with three windows, carrying a palm branch, and sometimes with cannons.

She is the patron saint of armorers, artillerymen, architects, mathematicians, miners, and the Italian Navy. St. Barbara is one of the Fourteen Holy Helpers, venerated because their intercession is believed to be especially effective against diseases. Barbara is often invoked against lightning and fire, with associations to explosions.

O Saint Barbara, I offer this prayer to you
in the Name of the Father, the Son,
and the Holy Spirit. With a sword
bearing your illustrious name, Saint Barbara,
I make a sign of the Cross over my heart.
I pray that your spirit by my faith,
that your protection and justice be my guide,
and from all my heart I beg that you grant this petition.
I hope to obtain this help through your grace.

Amen.

May peace be with you this Advent. God bless!