St. Faustina's New Year's Day Tradition

By Marc Massery

Do you have any fun New Year’s Day traditions?

Saint Faustina had one that you and your family might enjoy. On New Year’s Day, St. Faustina and her community drew lots to pick a special patron for themselves for the whole year. She wrote:

[T]here arose within me a secret desire that the Eucharistic Jesus be my special Patron … Suddenly, I heard a voice in my soul: I am your patron. Read. I looked at once at the inscription and read, “Patron for the Year 1935 — the Most Blessed Eucharist.” (360)

First, make a list of all the saints you admire: St. Padre Pio, St. Pope John Paul II, St. Therese, St. John the Baptist — whomever you feel inspired to add. Then gather your family and friends, and begin this tradition with your own family and friends. Otherwise, simply pick a patron randomly for yourself this year. There’s actually a long tradition in the Church of practices such as these. Take, for example, the Apostles. They drew lots to choose who would replace Judas (see Acts 1:26). So why shouldn't we draw lots to pick a special patron for ourselves? 

Before you pick your patron, pray beforehand (as St. Faustina did) that the Lord might guide you. When you choose a patron, consider it the Lord’s hand leading you to that particular saint. Don’t be afraid to make friends with your patron. Tell him or her your thoughts and fears. Ask for their intercession in your life. Ask that you might acquire the virtues your patron excelled in. They will hear your prayers and help you overcome all the trials you’ll face this New Year. 

If you’re struggling to find hope this New Year, learn about the life of the saint you chose. The saints were no strangers to suffering. But through their perseverance and prayers, they grew closer to the Lord and gained the peace that He promised us. They want to help you gain that same peace, too. 

{shopmercy-ad}

lamdvd

You might also like...

One sister said to me, “Get ready, Sister, to receive a small cross at the hands of Mother Superior. I feel sorry for you.” But as for me, I rejoiced at this in the depths of my soul.

Turn to any page of St. Faustina's Diary, and you'll find spiritual gems. 

Turn to any page of St. Faustina’s Diary and you’ll find spiritual gems. Like this one: