Saint Martha

Patron Saint of cooks, homemakers, servants, single women, hospitality workers.

Feast Day: July 29th

Layperson

Bethany, near Jerusalem

Feast Day: July 29th

Layperson

Bethany, near Jerusalem

About

Saint Martha was the sister of Mary and Lazarus, and a close friend of Jesus. She is best known for her active hospitality, welcoming Jesus into her home in Bethany. In the Gospel of Luke, Martha is shown preparing a meal while her sister Mary sits at Jesus’ feet. When Martha asks Jesus to tell Mary to help, He gently reminds her that spiritual attention is just as important as service. In the Gospel of John, Saint Martha shows great faith when her brother Lazarus dies. She runs out to meet Jesus and declares, “I believe that you are the Messiah, the Son of God.” Her strong faith and loving heart make her one of the most relatable women in the Bible.

Legacy

Saint Martha is remembered for her balance of service and faith. She represents those who show love by taking care of others. Though busy with hospitality, she still had a deep belief in Jesus and His power. Tradition holds that she continued to evangelize after the Resurrection, with some legends saying she traveled to France. Martha is the patron saint of homemakers, cooks, and those who serve others. Her example reminds us that service, when rooted in love for Christ, is holy and powerful.

“I believe that you are the Christ, the Son of God, who is coming into the world.” – Saint Martha (John 11:27)