Intercession of Saints

Definition

The intercession of saints refers to the belief that saints, who have attained a special status in heaven, can intercede on behalf of the faithful by presenting their prayers to God. This concept emphasizes the connection between the living and the saints, highlighting the community of believers both on earth and in heaven. In literature, especially in hagiography, this theme illustrates the role of saints as mediators and advocates for those seeking divine help.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The intercession of saints is rooted in early Christian beliefs, with an emphasis on the communal aspect of faith where the saints serve as intermediaries between God and humanity.
2. In hagiographies, stories often emphasize miraculous events attributed to saints’ intercessions, showcasing their power and influence in spiritual matters.
3. The practice of asking saints to intercede is especially prominent in Catholicism and Orthodox Christianity, where believers seek their help during prayers.
4. Saints are often depicted as having specific attributes or patronages associated with various needs or causes, making them relatable figures for those seeking assistance.
5. The veneration of saints and their intercession serves to strengthen the faith community by fostering a sense of belonging and continuity through shared beliefs and practices.

Review Questions

• How does the intercession of saints reflect the communal aspect of faith in hagiographic literature?
  • In hagiographic literature, the intercession of saints highlights the interconnectedness between the living faithful and those who have achieved sainthood. Saints are portrayed as advocates who present prayers and petitions to God on behalf of individuals. This communal aspect not only emphasizes the bond among believers but also reassures them that they are part of a larger spiritual family that transcends earthly life.
• Discuss how hagiography illustrates the concept of intercession through specific narratives or miracles attributed to saints.
  • Hagiographies often contain vivid narratives that showcase miracles performed through the intercession of saints, such as healing the sick or providing protection during perilous situations. These accounts serve to illustrate the saints' ability to mediate between God and humanity. By detailing these miraculous events, hagiographers aim to inspire faith in readers while reinforcing the belief that saints are active participants in the spiritual lives of believers.
• Evaluate the significance of canonization in relation to the intercession of saints and its portrayal in literature.
  • Canonization plays a crucial role in establishing a saint’s authority to intercede for others, as it is an official acknowledgment by the Church that a person has led a life of exceptional virtue. This process not only legitimizes their ability to mediate but also influences how they are depicted in literature. Hagiographic texts frequently highlight their journey towards sainthood and subsequent miracles attributed to them post-canonization, shaping public perception and devotion while reinforcing theological principles surrounding their intercessory power.

Related terms

Hagiography: A genre of literature that recounts the lives, virtues, and miracles of saints, often aimed at inspiring devotion among readers.

Martyrdom: The act of suffering death for one’s faith, which often leads to the canonization of individuals as saints and serves as a powerful narrative in hagiographic texts.

Canonization: The official process by which the Church recognizes a deceased person as a saint, affirming their ability to intercede for others.