Why do Catholics choose patron saints for baptism, confirmation, and professions?
Choosing a patron saint provides the Christian with a heavenly model of heroic virtue, an intimate spiritual friend, and a tireless intercessor before the throne of God. By taking a saint's name at Baptism and Confirmation, the believer is inspired to imitate their fidelity to the Gospel and can call upon their protection throughout life. Likewise, parishes, dioceses, nations, and occupational groups (such as doctors under St. Luke or musicians under St. Cecilia) have heavenly patrons who intercede for their specific needs.
Sources
- Catechism of the Catholic Church, paragraph 2156
- Revelation 8:3-4
Awaiting review by the chaplaincy. Written in our own words; the Church's own texts are the authority.