Christopher was probably a real martyr, killed in Lycia (in modern Turkey) in the third century, though almost everything else about him is legend. In 1969 his feast was removed from the Church’s general calendar because so little is known for certain. He’s still a saint, and still one of the most loved. Plenty of Catholics keep his medal on their keychain or dashboard.
Historical Context
A Saint Christopher Prayer for Safe Travel
St Christopher, you carried Christ across the river.
Watch over me on this journey.
Keep me alert and patient on the road,
protect me from accidents and harm,
and bring me safely to where I’m going,
and safely home again.
Amen.
A Driver’s Prayer
Lord, as I start this car, keep my hands steady and my eyes on the road.
Keep me from distraction, anger and hurry.
Protect everyone around me.
St Christopher, ride with me.
Amen.
Before a Long Trip or Flight
Lord, I’m going a long way today.
Bless the pilots, drivers and crews.
Watch over my home while I’m gone,
and bring me back safely.
Amen.
For Someone Travelling
St Christopher, carry the one I love safely to their destination.
Amen.
Best Times for This Prayer
- Before a road trip, flight or commute.
- When a family member is travelling.
- On 25 July, when many parishes bless cars.
- When hanging a St Christopher medal in a new car.
Scripture Connection
“The LORD shall preserve thy going out and thy coming in from this time forth, and even for evermore.” — Psalm 121:8
Psalm 121 was a pilgrim’s psalm, sung by people on the road to Jerusalem. It covers both directions: going out and coming home.
Related prayers
For drivers, see the Truck Driver Prayer, New Driver Prayer and Motorcycle Prayer. For flying, the Pilot Prayer.