St. Christopher (died c. 251 AD) is one of the most beloved Christian saints, particularly known as the patron saint of travelers. According to legend, he carried the Christ Child across a dangerous river, not knowing the child’s identity until he felt the immense weight of the world on his shoulders.
Though his historical existence is debated, his symbolic importance as a protector of travelers and bearer of Christ has inspired millions. His prayers are especially meaningful for those undertaking journeys, whether physical or spiritual, and those seeking safe passage through life’s challenges.
Historical Context
Saint: Christopher
Feast Day: July 25
Patronage: Travelers, Drivers, Transportation
Era: 3rd Century
Saint Christopher Prayer 1
O Glorious St. Christopher,
You inherited a beautiful name, Christ-bearer,
as a result of the wonderful legend
that while carrying people across a raging stream
you also carried the Child Jesus.
Teach us to be true Christ-bearers
to those who do not know Him.
Protect all of us who travel both near and far
and petition Jesus to remain with us always.
Amen.
Best Times for This Prayer:
Saint Christopher Prayer 2
Father,
Grant that I may be a bearer of Christ Jesus, Your Son.
Allow me to warm the often cold, impersonal scene
of modern life with Your burning love.
Strengthen me by Your Holy Spirit
to carry out my mission of changing the world
or some definite part of it for the better.
Despite my lamentable failures,
bring home to me that my advantages
are Your blessings to be shared with others.
Make me more energetic in setting right
what I find wrong with the world
instead of complaining about it.
Nourish in me a practical desire to build up
rather than tear down,
to reconcile instead of polarize,
to go out on a limb rather than crave security.
Never let me forget that it is far better
to light one candle than to curse the darkness,
and to join my light, one day, with Yours.
Amen.
Best Times for This Prayer:
Saint Christopher Prayer 3
Dear Saint Christopher,
Protect me today in all my travels
along the road’s way.
Give your warning sign if danger is near
so that I may stop while the path is clear.
Be at my window and direct me through
when the vision blurs from out of the blue.
Carry me safely to my destined place,
like you carried Christ in your close embrace.
Amen.
Best Times for This Prayer:
Saint Christopher Prayer 4
Dear Lord,
Before I take my place today behind the wheel,
please let me come with humble heart
before Thy throne to kneel and pray
that I am fit to drive each busy thoroughfare,
and that I keep a watchful eye,
lest some small child be there.
And keep me thinking constantly about the Golden Rule,
when driving past the playground zones
or by some busy school.
Then when I stop to give someone
his right to cross the street,
let me by brother’s keeper be
and spare a life that’s sweet.
Please make me feel this car I drive,
You gave me to enjoy,
and that its purpose is to serve mankind
not to destroy.
Amen.
Best Times for This Prayer:
Saint Christopher Prayer 5
Dear Lord,
We appeal to you for strength.
Help us choose the vocation set for us.
Help us take up our daily burden,
as St. Christopher did.
Help us navigate the hazards of this life.
Help us manage the burdens upon our backs.
See us safely to the other side,
where we shall receive our promised reward.
We ask this through Christ, Our Lord.
Amen.
Best Times for This Prayer:
Saint Christopher Prayer 6
Dear Saint,
You have inherited a beautiful name Christopher
as a result of a wonderful legend
that while carrying people across a raging stream
you also carried the Child Jesus.
Teach us to be true Christbearers
to those who do not know Him.
Protect all drivers who often transport
those who bear Christ within them.
Amen.
