Short answer
Yes, Catholics believe that saints intercede for us before God, strengthening the communion of the Church.
Full answer
Catholics believe in the intercession of saints, a doctrine that is part of the faith and practice of the Church. This belief is based on the conviction that saints, who are now in the glory of God, actively intercede for those still living on Earth. The Catechism of the Catholic Church states that 'the intercession [of saints] is their most exalted service to God's plan' and that 'we can and should ask them to intercede for us and for the whole world' (Catechism of the Catholic Church, n. 956).
The intercession of saints is an expression of the communion of saints, which unites all members of the Body of Christ, both those on Earth and those in Heaven. The practice of venerating saints and asking for their intercession strengthens the unity of the Body of Christ. This unity is essential because every genuine testimony of love shown by us to those in Heaven tends and ends in Christ. The intercession of saints connects us to this network of love and prayer, making God's presence more evident in our lives.
Visual aid
What is the intercession of saints?
The saints intercede for us, living in communion with God and offering our prayers. As the Catechism states (n. 956), their intercession is an expression of Christ's love, strengthening the unity of the faithful in the Body of Christ.
Biblical foundation of the intercession of saints
In Revelation 5:8, we see saints offering the prayers of the faithful to God. Hebrews 12:1 describes a 'cloud of witnesses' surrounding us, showing that saints accompany and intercede for us in our faith journey.
Tradition and testimonies of the practice
The practice of seeking the intercession of saints dates back to early Christians, who left inscriptions on tombs asking for their prayers. Writings by Saint Augustine and prayers such as the 'Sub Tuum Praesidium' reinforce this tradition.
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