Praying to the Saints

The Catholic practice of seeking the intercession of the saints is deeply rooted in Scripture and in the communion of the Church.

Revelation 5:8 presents a striking image: the elders in heaven offer “golden bowls full of incense, which are the prayers of the saints.” This reveals that the saints in glory are not passive observers but active participants, presenting our prayers before God.

Hebrews 12:1 reminds us that we are “surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses,” affirming the ongoing presence and encouragement of those who have gone before us in faith. As members of the Body of Christ, the saints remain united with us through Christ, who conquered death.

Scripture also teaches that “the prayer of a righteous person has great power” (James 5:16). Who is more righteous than those perfected in heaven?

Praying to the saints is not a substitute for prayer to God—it is a request for their intercession, just as we would ask a faithful friend on earth to pray for us. It is an expression of the unity of the Church across heaven and earth.