Pick Your Professional Patron
God deemed work holy. Ever since the beginning of time, when He “took the man and settled him in the garden of Eden, to cultivate and care for it.” (Genesis 1:15) The work you do in your professional life matters to God and is an integral part of your path to holiness.
On that path, we sometimes need inspiration and intercession to persevere in the work. Here are five saints who can walk with you (and pray for you!) wherever you are in your work life:
St. Gianna Molla – For Working Mothers, Wives, and Medical Professionals
St. Gianna was a pediatrician, wife, and mother of four. She balanced the call to professional excellence with her vocation to family life, and she did it with grace. She proved that women don’t have to choose between being a mother and having a “real” career. She’s also a wonderful example of a devoted and supportive wife to her husband and his career aspirations.
“She looks well to the ways of her household, and does not eat the bread of idleness.” (Proverbs 31:27)
St. Gianna, pray for me that I may not allow my career ambitions to interfere with my family mission. Amen.
St. Joseph – For Working Fathers and Trade Workers
St. Joseph was steady, faithful, and hard-working—three things our world desperately needs from men in the workplace and at home. Scripture doesn’t record a single word he said; he, instead, is a man of action, someone who gets stuff done and isn’t afraid to roll up his sleeves and do hard work. His holy example lies in his faithfulness day after day, from the mundane to the most momentous.
“You shall eat the fruit of the labor of your hands; you shall be happy, and it shall be well with you.” (Psalm 128:2)
St. Joseph, pray for me that I may be faithful in my work and household duties, noticing the presence of the Divine in the daily.
Bl. Carlo Acutis – For Young Professionals and Computer Workers
Blessed Carlo (soon-to-be canonized saint!) was a tech-savvy teenager with a deep love for the Lord. From a desire to use his gifts for God, he built a website to share Eucharistic miracles with the world. He’s proof that you can live your faith in the digital space, and that even your technical skills can be offered to the Lord.
“Whatever your task, work heartily, as serving the Lord and not men, knowing that from the Lord you will receive the inheritance as your reward; you are serving the Lord Christ.” (Colossians 3:23-24)
Bl. Carlo, pray for me that I may use my gifts and skills for the glory of God, for the good of the world, and the sanctification of my soul. Amen.
St. Cajetan – For the Unemployed and Job-Searchers
St. Cajetan (or Gaetano in Italian) is a lesser-known saint who left behind a legal career to become a priest. He mainly served the poor and the unemployed, founding hospitals and job-training programs. He wasn’t afraid of hard work and lived in radical dependence on God. He reminds us that being without a job doesn’t mean being without purpose or hope, and that the seasons of waiting and searching can sanctify you—if you let God work in it!
“We know that in everything God works for good with those who love him, who are called according to his purpose.” (Romans 8:28)
St. Cajetan, pray for me that I may be faithful in the season of searching, and that the Lord would make my path and next steps clear. Amen.
St. Homobonus – For Entrepreneurs and Business Owners
St. Homobonus (whose name means “good man” in Latin) was a merchant and trader of goods who built his business on honesty, generosity, and prayer. He didn’t see the pursuit of profit and the pursuit of holiness to be contradictory—he and his wife became notably wealthy from their work, but were known for giving much of it to the poor. He challenges business owners to lead with integrity, trust God with their business, and generously share the fruit of their success with others.
“And let us not grow weary in well-doing, for in due season we shall reap, if we do not lose heart.” (Galatians 6:9)
St. Homobonus, pray for me that I may surrender my business pursuits to the Lord and use my success for the good of others. Amen.
So, what is God calling you to do in this season of work (or lack of it)? And who is he calling you to become? Ultimately, our professional lives should work towards holiness and salvation—our own and those around us—not against it.
Whether you’re job-hunting, pivoting careers, building a business, or simply trying to survive another Monday, you don’t have to do it alone. Coaching can help by providing clarity, encouragement, and accountability as you discern the next step for you. You can learn more and schedule a free consultation here!
