Look to these saints to help keep your Lenten promises

While Lent is a deeply spiritual time in the Church, it can also be a bit of a struggle for the faithful — on day one you’re all fired up, and then before you know it, you’re halfway through, with temptations tugging at you and your resolutions starting to wobble. Don’t worry; you’re not alone!

When your Lenten promises feel a bit fragile, it helps to lean on some timeless examples of faith. So here are just a few remarkable saints who can inspire you to stay on track for the rest of this sacred season:

St. Padre Pio’s life was defined by his deep commitment to prayer, even amid personal challenges. Famous for his compassionate heart and miraculous endurance, he’s a powerful reminder that sometimes the best way to overcome temptation is to pause, pray, and persevere. When your resolve begins to waver, take a cue from Padre Pio — gather strength in a quiet moment with God, knowing that each prayer is a step back to renewal.

If your Lenten journey feels more like a marathon than a sprint, let St. Francis de Sales encourage you. His gentle approach reminds us that progress happens one small step at a time. Whether you’re struggling with a particular sacrifice or just need a reminder that every effort counts, let his example inspire you to celebrate each little victory — because, in the end, it’s the steady pace that leads to transformation.

St. Catherine of Siena, a Doctor of the Church, was known for her bold spirit and fearless love for Christ. Her passionate approach to faith reminds us that renewal can come from embracing life’s challenges with courage. When you’re feeling tempted to give in or lose heart, channel St. Catherine’s fiery determination. Allow her example to spark a renewed passion in your prayer life and inspire you to face each day with a courageous, joyful spirit.

Known affectionately as the Curé of Ars, St. John Vianney dedicated his life to caring for his community with warmth and humility. His deep commitment to the sacrament of Confession and genuine pastoral care shows us that no act of kindness or honest conversation with God is ever too small. When you feel weighed down by your Lenten commitments, let St. John Vianney’s gentle example remind you that every honest moment spent with God is a chance to refresh your soul and renew your promise.

Known as “The Little Flower,” St. Thérèse reminds us that holiness isn’t about grand gestures. Her “little way” teaches us that small, everyday acts of love can blossom into something beautiful. When the daily grind wears you down, try focusing on one tiny, heartfelt habit — perhaps a quiet moment of prayer or a kind word to a neighbor. Like Thérèse, remember that even the smallest seed of faith can grow into a garden of grace.

Often the unsung hero of the Holy Family, St. Joseph exemplifies the power of humble, everyday devotion. As a loving provider and protector, he reminds us that maintaining our Lenten promises isn’t about grand gestures — it’s found in daily acts of care and responsibility. When you’re tempted to slip up or feel alone in your journey, think of St. Joseph’s steadfast, practical faith. His quiet strength is a beacon for anyone striving to balance life’s pressures with a call to holiness.

As you navigate the rest of these 40 days, remember that Lent isn’t about perfection — it’s about persistence, progress, and finding true joy in every little moment. With the inspiring examples of these saints by your side, you have a veritable team of saintly friends cheering you on. So grab a cup of tea, tuck away that tempting treat for a bit longer, and let these extraordinary lives guide you through the rest of this sacred season.

And in case you need a little more inspiration -- we can't blame you! -- here are a few quotes from popes that might inspire you this Lent, too.