A portrait of St. Anna the Prophetess
St. Anna the Prophetess
1st century BC – 1st century
Feast
September 1 (Eastern); February 2 (with the Presentation) · I c.
Patron of
Widows · The elderly · Those who pray and fast in hidden devotion
Order
Biblical Saint / Prophetess
Aged widowed prophetess of the tribe of Asher who, having lived in the Temple in fasting and prayer for many decades after a brief marriage, recognized the infant Jesus when his parents brought him to the Temple for the Presentation (Luke 2:36-38). With St. Simeon, she gave thanks for the redemption of Israel and spoke of the child to all who awaited the consolation of Jerusalem. She is honored as the model of a widowed life consecrated entirely to God.
Life & Times
Also known as: Anna; Hannah; the Prophetess Anna · Born: 1st century BC · Died: 1st century · From: Jerusalem (the Temple).
Patronage
St. Anna the Prophetess is invoked as the patron of widows, the elderly, those who pray and fast in hidden devotion. Those in these callings or circumstances often turn to this saint in prayer.
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Devotional items honoring St. Anna the Prophetess, from our Sancta Lumina collection and beyond.
About Catholic Saints
Catholic saints, including St. Anna the Prophetess, are Christians whom the Catholic Church has formally recognized as having lived lifes of heroic holiness and who now dwell with God in heaven, offering an example of faith for those still on their earthly journey. Catholics don't worship saints, but ask them to pray to God with us and for us — much as one might ask a trusted friend to pray for them — trusting that those closest to God can join their voices to ours before Him. Discover more saints in the Catholic Shop Saints section.