Saints Joachim and Anne are traditionally honored as the parents of the Virgin Mary and the grandparents of Jesus Christ. Though not mentioned in the Bible, their story comes from ancient Christian tradition and apocryphal writings, such as the Protoevangelium of James, a 2nd-century text.
Who Are They?
St. Joachim: Often seen as a devout and wealthy man who was deeply faithful to God. Tradition says he was humiliated for being childless, which in Jewish culture at the time was considered a sign of divine disfavor.
St. Anne: Revered as a woman of deep prayer and virtue. According to tradition, after years of barrenness, she conceived Mary through divine intervention.
Their feast day is July 26 in the Catholic Church.
What Faith Do They Teach?
Saints Joachim and Anne are venerated especially for:
1. Faithfulness to God – Even when faced with social shame and personal disappointment, they remained devoted to prayer and trust in God.
2. Perseverance in Hope – Despite their old age and inability to have children for many years, they never gave up hope.
3. Role in Salvation History – By raising Mary in a holy household, they prepared the way for Christ. Their quiet, humble obedience played a crucial role in God’s plan.
They model family, parenting, and generational faithfulness.
How Can We Apply Their Example Today?
Here’s how we can bring their example into our lives:
1. Strengthen Families: In a world where families face pressure and breakdown, Joachim and Anne show the value of a stable, loving, faith-centered home. Encourage prayer, respect, and time together.
2. Persevere in Prayer: Like them, we should never give up praying—even when it feels like nothing is changing. Hope and patience are key virtues in today’s often instant-gratification culture.
3. Respect for Elders: As grandparents of Jesus, they remind us of the wisdom and dignity of the elderly. In a youth-driven world, their lives encourage care for older generations and valuing their spiritual legacy.
4. Pass Down the Faith: Teach children not just religious knowledge, but how to live with integrity, love, and humility. Grandparents and parents both play a role in passing on values.
If you’re a parent, grandparent, or someone nurturing others spiritually, Joachim and Anne are your patrons. Their silent but powerful example teaches us that God works through the quiet faithfulness of family life.