The celebration of Jesus’ Ascension often falls during May, but the month also features a large number of influential saints in the Church, such as Our Lady of Fatima, Sts. Philip and James, St. Damien, St. Matthias and St. Philip Neri.
Here is a list of 8 of the most influential saints to imitate and celebrate in May.
1Sts. Philip and James – May 3
Sts. Philip and James the Lesser were among the 12 Apostles and both established churches and spread the Gospel.
2St. Damien de Veuster – May 10
Missionary in Hawaii to a leper colony, St. Damien was a humble priest who died serving his flock.
3St. John of Avila – May 10
St. John of Avila, a Doctor of the Church, was the spiritual advisor of St. Teresa of Avila and St. John of the Cross.
4Our Lady of Fatima – May 13
May 13 marks the feast day of Our Lady of Fatima, the anniversary of the first apparition of Mary to Lucia, Jacinta and Francisco.
5St. Matthias – May 14
St. Matthias was the “replacement apostle,” who was chosen as one of the twelve after Judas’ betrayal and death.
6St. Brendan – May 16
St. Brendan is best known as an Irish missionary who made many legendary voyages, including one to America.
7St. Bernardine of Siena – May 20
St. Bernardine was a holy Franciscan who loved to spread devotion to Jesus’ Holy Name.
8St. Philip Neri – May 26
St. Philip Neri is known as the “second apostle of Rome,” and was known as a joyful priest.
