Saint of the day, November 5

November 5 - St. Elizabeth and St. Zechariah

Born: First century

Died: Unknown

Nationality: Israelite

Patronage: Pregnant women (St. Elizabeth)

Canonized: Pre-Congregation

St. Elizabeth and St. Zechariah, the parents of St. John the Baptist, offer a beautiful example of faith, patience, and trust in God's promises. Their story, told in the Gospel of Luke, reveals how God can work through even the most unexpected circumstances.

Elizabeth and Zechariah remained faithful to God despite years of longing for a child. While Zechariah was serving as a priest in the Temple, the angel Gabriel appeared with the extraordinary news that Elizabeth would bear a son who would prepare the way for the Lord. Struggling to believe the promise because of their age, Zechariah lost his ability to speak until John's birth.

During her pregnancy, Elizabeth received a visit from her relative, the Blessed Virgin Mary, who was carrying Jesus. Filled with the Holy Spirit, Elizabeth proclaimed, “Most blessed are you among women, and blessed is the fruit of your womb."

When Zechariah regained his speech after John’s birth, he praised God for His faithfulness and the promise of salvation. His words became known as the Canticle of Zechariah, a prayer still recited each morning in the Liturgy of the Hours.

The lives of St. Elizabeth and St. Zechariah invite us to trust in God's timing, even when His plans are difficult to understand. Their example encourages us to remain faithful in prayer and welcome His blessings with grateful hearts.

St. Elizabeth and St. Zechariah, pray for us!

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