Today the Church honors Saints Joachim and Anne, the parents of the Blessed Virgin Mary and grandparents of Jesus.
Though the Bible does not mention them by name, tradition holds them in great esteem as the holy root of Mary’s upbringing and faith.
Their example reminds us of the vital role of family in passing on the faith.
Prayer of the Day
Loving God,
You chose Saints Joachim and Anne to raise the Blessed Virgin Mary in holiness and wisdom. Through their intercession, bless all parents and grandparents, that they may raise children who love and follow You. Help us to honor our family heritage of faith and to grow in love as Your children.
Through Christ our Lord,
Amen.
Mass Readings of the Day
First Reading: Sirach 44:1, 10–15
Their name lives on generation after generation.
Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 132:11, 13–14, 17–18
The Lord has chosen Zion; he has desired it for his dwelling.”
Gospel: Matthew 13:16–17
Blessed are your eyes, because they see, and your ears, because they hear.”
Catholic Saints of the Day: Saints Joachim and Anne
Saints Joachim and Anne are revered as the grandparents of Jesus and the parents of the Blessed Virgin Mary.
While little is historically known about them, devotion to them grew over the centuries, especially among those praying for family, children, and strong marriages.
Their lives are celebrated for their faith, virtue, and role in salvation history through their daughter Mary.
5 Interesting Facts About Saints Joachim and Anne
- They are not mentioned in the Bible – Their names and story come from early Christian tradition, particularly the Protoevangelium of James (an apocryphal gospel).
- They are the patron saints of grandparents – They are honored especially by those who pray for family and future generations.
- Their feast day celebrates the family – It reminds the Church of the importance of generational faith.
- St. Anne has long been especially venerated – Particularly in Canada, Brittany (France), and Latin America.
- They are seen as models of trust in God’s plan – Tradition says they waited many years to have a child, and God blessed them with Mary in old age.
