A convert looking for a patron saint

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There are so many wonderful English saints, from the very early ones, through Thomas Becket, and all the very, very courageous martyrs of the Reformation–Thomas More, and so many more. I’m currently reading Eamon Duffy’s The Stripping of the Altars, about Catholic life in England on the eve of the Reformation and then its aftermath, and I’ve gotten really interested in all the historic saints that were venerated at that time (only to have their veneration suppressed by Henry and his henchmen). If I were of English heritage I would consider an English saint as patron.
 
Honestly I did LOTS of research into patron saints before being confirmed at Easter a few years back. I hardly ever come across a saint whose name I don’t at least recognize because of this 😂 With that said, I encourage you to do your own research and if you come across someone who speaks to you, then read more about them and eventually he or she will find you! I ended up with St. Monica who was persistent in praying for the conversion of her family - something that’s always been close to my heart. Also, I have strayed from the Church a bit and I must say there have been times I know she’s been praying for my return as well. The saints are pretty cool.
 
DaveTheConvert said:
Thank you. Coincidently, I saw an article today in Our Sunday Visitor with the headline St. Elizabeth Ann Seton: A saint for converts. I think I’m getting (name removed by moderator)ut from heavenly sources, too!
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Mother Seton was a remarkable woman and a tremendous saint…and, of course, came out of the English Church tradition, being Episcopalian. She would make a tremendous patron for you.

As a priest, I have known many women Religious across the years who were Mother Joseph or Sister Stephen or Sister Luke or Mother John.

As a man, there is a way, however, for you to circumvent this issue in this instance…Mother’s family name before she married was Bayley and her married name was Seton – and either could work very well for your Confirmation name, if you chose her as your patron saint.

The Blessed John Henry Cardinal Newman should not escape your consideration. Blessed Dominic of the Mother of God was the priest who received John Henry into full communion with Rome.

Another you might wish to consider is Blessed John Sullivan

www.irishtimes.com

Dubliner, who was Protestant, declared ‘Blessed’ by Catholic Church

The priest was reared Protestant and converted to Catholism when he was 35-years-old
www.irishtimes.com www.irishtimes.com
 
Thank you. Duffy’s book sounds fascinating. I will have to add that one to my list of books to read.
 
Thank you for your insight. I hope you find your way back to the Church. I know I can’t imagine my life without it. God bless you!
 
Thank you so much, Father. Mother Seton was a remarkable woman. I will also examine Blessed John Henry Cardinal Newman and Blessed John Sullivan. I appreciate you suggestions and insight.
 
Thank you. I hope I do as well. I’ve had a few negative experiences regarding my local parish, but I am starting to see how much I don’t want that to keep me from Christ no matter how hard it may be. Thanks be to God for your coming into communion with the Catholic Church and I wish you well in your journey!
 
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