Look to these humble religious to name your little boy.
With so many saints’ names to choose from when naming your child, it’s possible to get a little lost. One way to narrow it down is to pick a favorite religious order to help narrow your search — like the Franciscans. Known for their humble demeanor and desire to help those in need, these religious friars possess many virtues any parent would want his or her child to emulate.
Founded by St. Francis of Assisi in the 13th century, the Franciscan order has developed over the centuries with the creation of off-shoots along the way, such as the Order of Friars Minor Capuchin. With the aim of helping the most vulnerable in society, many Capuchins were known for their great preaching and dedication to ministry work, with quite a few having impressive creative skills too.
Although no doubt Francis is a great name in itself — and it works well as a middle name, too — he is not on this particular list as so much is known about him already. But if you click on the slideshow you’ll find other worthy names to inspire your choice!
Pio: One of thr most popular yet most humble friars was Padre Pio. In his childhood, he spoke to Mary and Jesus and was able to see guardian angels. Later on in his life, the friar, a Capuchin, was able to levitate and bore the stigmata. Hopefully, your little boy will follow advice of St. Pio of Pietrelcina’s to “pray, hope, and don’t worry.”
Maximilian: St. Maximilian Kolbe was a friar who served God and others until his execution in 1941. While imprisoned in Auschwitz, the Polish priest volunteered to take the place of a family man earmarked for death. In suffering starvation and then lethal injection, Kolbe displayed courage and grace, virtues to inspire any little boy.
Anthony: The Portuguese Franciscan friar Anthony of Padua is known for being the patron of lost things. However, he was also known for his eloquent preaching and his ability to share his love of God with others. A friend to Francis of Assisi, Anthony was full of humility and appreciated for his teaching skills. He eventually became a Doctor of the Church. Your own mini-Anthony in the house will surely be a blessing!
Felix: Felix of Canatalice was the first Capuchin to become a saint. First a farm laborer who prayed while he worked, he later became a friar at 28 and devoted himself to God and helping the poor. From the Latin meaning “lucky” or “happy,” St. Felix is a terrific example of holiness for any little boy.
Joseph: St. Joseph of Cupertino was reputed to levitate during rapturous moments of prayer. A prolific miracle worker, the humble and kind friar had a difficult childhood and first joined the Franciscan friars as a servant. Becoming a priest at 25, he found his calling in life. His name can remind any little boy to draw closer to God in prayer.
Junipero: Take inspiration from the Spanish friar St. Junipero Serra, who came to California in the 18th century as a missionary. The brilliant intellectual traveled extensively in central and north America, baptizing many people. As an elderly friar, despite being injured and in pain, he returned to his missions to confirm those he converted. The dedication and endurance he displayed are perfect qualities for any boy.
Angelico: Angelico Chavez, a Hispanic American Friar Minor, followed Junipero Serra in his missionary work. He was also a poet and novelist whose work garnered praise from fellow poet T.S. Eliot. Opting for such a heavenly name might bring out the creative side of your little boy.
Leonard: Leonard of Port Maurice was a great Italian Franciscan missionary whose passion for preaching “The Way of the Cross” led him to establish stations in 571 locations in Italy, including the Colosseum in Rome, over a 43-year period. Thanks to his preaching and dedication to his ministry, he brought many to the Church. Naming your son after such a man would certainly set him on the right path.
Mychal: It would surely be an honor for any boy to benamed after Mychal Judge, the contemporary American priest and Franciscan friar who died during the 9/11 attacks while carrying out his duty as chaplain to the New York City Fire Department. As the first listed victim in 2001, the friar left a huge hole in the city where he ministered to the homeless and vulnerable members of society, in addition to fire fighters.
Raphael Benedict is a Catholic who wants nothing but to spread the catholic faith to reach the ends of the world. Make this possible by always sharing any article or prayers posted on your social media platforms. Remain blessed
