Another angel came and stood at the altar, and he held a gold bowl for burning incense. He was given a large amount of incense, in order to offer it on behalf of the prayers of all the saints on the gold altar in front of the throne.
Revelation 8:3, Common English Bible (CEB)
I served as a missionary for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. During my time serving in this capacity, I realized the difference between Christian denominations, as well as the misunderstandings that exist between such denominations. One of these misunderstandings stemmed from the Catholic belief in saints. In my denomination, some people would claim that those who honored saints were choosing to not put God first, making them unholy. Through my own experience, I learned that this just isn’t true.
While on my mission, I made a dear friend who was and is a deeply devoted Catholic. I’ll call her Carol. Carol explained the function of saints in her life in a beautiful way, which I will try to paraphrase: “When I am going through a hard time, I ask my friends and family to pray for me. Similarly, I will ask saints to pray for me. Because they are close to God, I am grateful for their prayers and honor them.”
Recently, my knowledge of saints grew when I visited Assisi on the feast day of St. Francis of Assisi. As someone who knew nothing about this saint before coming to this town, I was astounded to learn facts about his life. As many people do in their early life, he struggled to find his place and define his relationship with God. As we all hope to do, Francis came into his spirituality and enjoyed a close connection with God. He was kind and gentle, humble yet powerful. His teachings made a huge influence on everyone and everything around him. Based on his popularity, he likely could have gained enough power to rule and lead on his own, but instead, he subjected himself to the same leadership that other Catholics followed. Because of his great faith, he worked many miracles and experienced awesome things.
From what I learned about St. Francis, I do want to strive to be like him. As a fellow believer in Jesus Christ, I notice in St. Francis many attributes that I try to cultivate in myself. I can see how learning and exemplifying this saint would bring someone closer to God.
Though we may not resonate or agree with practices of different religions, it is still powerful to see where they’re coming from. I still know very little about Catholic saints, but what I have learned has helped me realize more spiritual truths and accept them into my life.
What is a belief that you don’t understand? How can you learn more about it?
Saint
“All Christians are called to be saints. Saints are persons in heaven (officially canonized or not), who lived heroically virtuous lives, offered their life for others, or were martyred for the faith, and who are worthy of imitation. In official Church procedures there are three steps to sainthood: a candidate becomes ‘Venerable,’ then ‘Blessed’ and then ‘Saint.’ Venerable is the title given to a deceased person recognized formally by the pope as having lived a heroically virtuous life or offered their life. To be beatified and recognized as a Blessed, one miracle acquired through the candidate’s intercession is required in addition to recognition of heroic virtue or offering of life. Canonization requires a second miracle after beatification. The pope may waive these requirements. A miracle is not required prior to a martyr’s beatification, but one is required before canonization.”
“Saints.” United States Conference of Catholic Bishops. (https://www.usccb.org/offices/public-affairs/saints)
CEB
Common English Bible. New translation of the Christian Bible achieved with a group of diverse Christian scholars. Intended to be used by all followers of Jesus Christ.
“Explore – Common English Bible.” Common English Bible. (https://www.commonenglishbible.com/explore)
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints
Culturally called the “Mormon Church,” The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints prefers its full title to emphasize its Christian beliefs. Believe that God has called a modern-day prophet to restore the Jesus Christ’s Church, which was corrupted. Teachings include increasing focus on the Savior, caring for the poor, ending personal conflict in lives, and strengthening families.
“Jesus Christ’s Church Is Restored.” The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.(www.churchofjesuschrist.org/welcome/restored-church-of-jesus-christ?lang=eng)
Roman Catholicism
Prominent Christian branch. Begun during the Apostolic Age of Christianity, soon after the death of Jesus Christ. Over time, the bishop of Rome became the most powerful leader in this church. Many councils met over time to determine doctrine and clarify beliefs. Great Schism of 1054 led to separation between Catholicism and Eastern Orthodoxy. Protestantism split off of Catholicism. Beliefs include sacraments, the authority of scripture and tradition together, and that the Catholic Church is the one true church.
“Is Catholicism a Branch of Christianity?” Christianity.com. (https://www.christianity.com/church/denominations/what-is-catholicism.html)
Saint Francis of Assisi
1182-1226. Patron Saint of animals, Italy, ecology, etc. Founder of the Franciscan Order and the Poor Clares. Called to repair the Lord’s church. Performed many miracles; received the stigmatae of Christ.
“St. Francis of Assisi.” Vatican News. (https://www.vaticannews.va/en/saints/10/04/st–francis-of-assisi–founder-of-the-franciscan–order–patron-.html)
Jesus Christ
Founder and leader of all Christianity. Believed to be the Son of God. Born in Bethlehem around 6-4 BCE. Son of the Virgin Mary. Died around 30 BCE in Jerusalem. The New Testament focuses on Him and His Gospel (meaning His teachings). Teachings focus on honoring God, loving others, the kingdom of God, etc. Performed many miracles. Was captured by the Jews and crucified by the Romans. Believed to have resurrected three days after His death.
“Jesus.” Britannica. (https://www.britannica.com/biography/Jesus/The-relation-of-Jesus-teaching-to-the-Jewish-law)
Hallow 
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