ON THE NEED FOR HEAVENLY PATRONS

In Roman society, patronage was a central idea holding society together. The wealthier classes had an obligation to accept the less well off as their clients. These clients could look to their patrons to help them if they needed to find a job, or secure a re- spected tutor for their children, or to help them out of legal trouble. The patronage system kept Roman society intact for centuries.

The patrons depended on their clients to support them if they ran for public office. Each morning, a wealthy patron could expect many of his clients to be at his door to greet him or request something of him. Frequently, the patron would be joined by his clients for a stroll through the Forum. The Romans enjoyed such processions, and the more people a patron had with him, the more impressive he seemed. (You’ll notice that the Church also loves a good procession; it’s an echo of the ancient world.)

The Roman Church continues the idea of patronage in a spiritual sense. The saints in heaven are rich in grace, and we, on earth, are in need of their help. Thus, every baptized Catholic should have a patron saint interceding for them. Every parish has a patron saint. Ours, of course, is Saint Eugene: when on earth a holy pope; now, in heaven, an intercessor for his clients. You are encouraged to foster a relationship with more than one saint, of course. My personal “patrons” include Our Blessed La-dy; St. Joseph; St. Anthony of Padua; and St. Padre Pio. I go to them often and ask for their intercession. I hope you also have a number of heavenly patrons.

-Fr. Jim Goins