Saint Zechariah

Patron Saint of fathers, expectant fathers, speech difficulties, those seeking faith.

Feast Day: September 23rd

Martyr and Religious

Jerusalem, Israel

Public Domain: The Annunciation to Zacharias (c. 1400) by Italian 15th Century via National Gallery of Art.

Feast Day: September 23rd

Martyr and Religious

Jerusalem, Israel

About

Saint Zechariah was a righteous Jewish priest from the line of Abijah who served in the Temple of Jerusalem during the first century. Married to Saint Elizabeth, he and his wife were childless for many years until the angel Gabriel appeared to him while he was offering incense, announcing that they would have a son—John the Baptist—who would prepare the way for the Lord. Because Zechariah initially doubted the angel’s message, he was struck mute until John’s birth. When the child was born, Zechariah’s tongue was loosed, and he proclaimed the Benedictus (Luke 1:68–79), a hymn of praise to God. Tradition holds that Zechariah was later martyred in the Temple for his faithfulness.

Legacy

Saint Zechariah is remembered as a model of faith and patience. His story reminds believers of God’s power to work miracles in His own time, even when human hope seems gone. His canticle, the Benedictus, remains part of the Church’s daily prayer in the Liturgy of the Hours, inspiring countless Christians to trust in God’s promises. He is honored in both the Western and Eastern Churches, with shrines dedicated to him in Jerusalem and Ein Karem.

“Blessed be the Lord God of Israel, for He has visited and redeemed His people.” — Saint Zechariah, Luke 1:68