Saint Timothy was a close companion and spiritual son of Saint Paul the Apostle. Born in Lystra (modern-day Turkey) to a Jewish mother and a Greek father (Acts 16:1), Timothy embraced the Christian faith early in life through the influence of his mother Eunice and grandmother Lois, both of whom are praised by Paul for their sincere faith (2 Timothy 1:5).

Recognizing his virtues, Saint Paul took Timothy on as a missionary partner. Timothy co-authored several of Paul’s letters to early Christian communities and is frequently mentioned in the Acts of the Apostles and Paul’s Epistles. Saint Paul entrusted him with significant responsibilities, including preaching, teaching, and overseeing Christian communities, especially in Ephesus, where he was later consecrated as bishop.

In his letters to Timothy (1 & 2 Timothy), Paul offers pastoral instruction and encouragement, reminding him to be an example “in speech, conduct, love, faith, and purity” (1 Tim 4:12) and to “preach the word; be persistent whether it is convenient or inconvenient” (2 Tim 4:2).

According to ancient Church tradition, Saint Timothy was martyred in Ephesus around the year 97 A.D. for opposing pagan worship during a festival in honor of the goddess Diana. His witness of faith, leadership in the early Church, and loyalty to Saint Paul have made him a model for Christian discipleship, especially for the young.

Feast Day: January 26 
Patron Saint of: Stomach disorders, intestinal ailments, and young people in ministry

Saint Timothy, pray for me that I, too,
may one day glorify the Blessed Trinity
in heaven.
Obtain for me your lively faith,
that I may consider all persons,
things, and events in the light
of almighty God.
Pray, that I may be generous in making
sacrifices of temporal things to promote
my eternal interests, as you so wisely did.
Set me on fire with a love for Jesus,
that I may thirst for His sacraments
and burn with zeal for the spread
of His kingdom.
By your powerful intercession,
help me in the performance
of my duties to God, myself
and all the world.
Win for me the virtue of purity
and a great confidence in the Blessed Virgin.
Protect me this day, and every day of my life.
Keep me from mortal sin.