AKA: Sailors, Seaman
Serving in the United States Navy is a distinctive and demanding experience that offers a profound sense of purpose, adventure, and service to the nation. Naval personnel often find themselves immersed in a dynamic and ever-changing environment. Whether stationed on ships, submarines, naval bases, or even serving alongside Marines, life in the Navy is characterized by discipline, camaraderie, and a deep commitment to the defense of the nation and its maritime interests.
Two unique traditions of the Navy are reciting the Navy hymn and the Sailor’s Creed and the hallowed and solemn shipboard ceremony. And life in the Navy requires discipline, adaptability, and a strong commitment to teamwork. Sailors, officers, and enlisted personnel work together in a tightly knit community, and the Navy's culture fosters camaraderie and a shared sense of responsibility. The Navy's mission is to ensure the readiness, training, and equipping of combat-ready naval forces capable of achieving victory in conflicts, deterring aggression, and safeguarding the freedom of the seas.
Being a part of the Navy is a distinctive and multifaceted experience that encompasses a wide array of roles and responsibilities. Sailors are trained to operate advanced naval technologies, maintain the readiness of their units, and perform their duties with precision and excellence.
Navy sailors often face the challenges of extended deployments, which may keep them away from their families and loved ones for significant periods. Given the challenges faced by those serving in the Navy, it is very important to offer prayers for their safety, well-being, and hardiness. Saints provide a great way to seek intercession, offering emotional support, guidance, and resolute strength to these servicemen and women as they carry out their duties and confront the distinctive hardships of their service.
Who is the Patron Saint of the Navy
Several saints have long been revered for their association with aiding and safeguarding men and women in the Navy. While popular saints like St. Michael, St. George, and St. Joan of Arc are widely recognized as Patron Saints of the Military in general as well as the Navy, there are also specific Patron Saints who hold a special place for the Navy, such as St. Brendan and St. Nicholas.
St. Brendan, an Irish monastic saint from the 6th century, is not traditionally recognized as the Patron Saint of the Navy. However, his deep association with the sea and navigation can serve as a source of inspiration for some.
St. Brendan is most renowned for his legendary voyages, notably the "Voyage of St. Brendan," a medieval Irish tale that recounts his adventurous journeys across the Atlantic Ocean. While the historical accuracy of these expeditions remains a subject of debate, they depict St. Brendan and his companions embarking on maritime adventures, discovering unfamiliar islands, and steadfastly relying on their faith. Navy Sailors draw inspiration from St. Brendan's adventurous and seafaring spirit, as well as his courage, resourcefulness, and unwavering faith, particularly in the face of challenges and uncertainties.
St. Nicholas, known as Saint Nicholas of Myra, is widely known as the Patron Saint of sailors, including merchant mariners and fishermen. This association with sailors and seafaring is due to several legends and stories connected to his life.
St. Nicholas was a Bishop who lived in the 4th century in what is now Turkey. One of the most famous stories related to his connection with sailors tells of his miraculous intervention during a storm at sea. According to the legend, St. Nicholas appeared to sailors who were in danger and calmed the storm, saving their lives and the ship. This act of protection and guidance led to his veneration as a Patron saint for those who make their living on the sea.
Sailors often seek his intercession for safe voyages and protection during their maritime endeavors.
Click here for our list of Patron Saints.
Prayers for Navy
Navy Sailor Prayer
Eternal Father, strong to save, whose arm hath bound the restless wave, who bid the mighty Ocean deep its own appointed limits keep; O hear us when we cry to thee, for those in peril on the sea.
O Christ! Whose voice the waters heard and hushed their raging at Thy word, who walked on the foaming deep, and calm amidst its rage didst sleep; Oh hear us when we cry to Thee for those in peril on the sea!
Most Holy spirit! Who didst brood upon the chaos dark and rude, and bid its angry tumult cease, and give, for wild confusion, peace; oh, hear us when we cry to Thee for those in peril on the sea!
O Trinity of love and power! Our brethren shield in danger's hour; from rock and tempest, fire and foe, protect them wheresoe'er they go; thus evermore shall rise to Thee, glad hymns of praise from land and sea. Amen.
Prayer to St. Nicholas for Sailors
Heavenly Father, through the intercession of St. Nicholas, Patron of sailors, we come before You with humble hearts. We ask for Your divine protection over all those who work and travel on the seas. Grant them courage and strength to face the challenges of nature, and bestow upon them Your wisdom to navigate safely through storms and treacherous waters.
We thank You, Lord, for St. Nicholas’ unwavering faith and devotion to You. May his example inspire all sailors to live a life rooted in prayer and trust in Your divine providence. Through Jesus Christ, our Savior and Redeemer, we pray. Amen.
The Midshipman Prayer
Almighty Father, whose way is in the sea, whose paths are in the great waters, whose command is over all and whose love never faileth; let me be aware of Thy presence and obedient to Thy will. Keep me true to my best self, guarding me against dishonesty in purpose and in deed, and helping me so to live that I can stand unashamed and unafraid before my shipmates, my loved ones, and thee. Protect those in whose love I live. Give me the will to do my best and to accept my share of responsibilities with a strong heart and a cheerful mind. Make me considerate of those entrusted to my leadership and faithful to the duties my country has entrusted in me. Let my uniform remind me daily of the traditions of the service of which I am a part. If I am inclined to doubt, steady my faith; if I am tempted, make me strong to resist; if I should miss the mark, give me courage to try again. Guide me with the light of truth and keep before me the life of Him by whose example and help I trust to obtain the answer to my prayer, Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
Related Patron Saint Jewelry and Rosaries
Buy some beautiful St. Michael, St. George, St. Joan of Arc, St. Brendan or St. Nicholas jewelry to keep you or your loved one close to the Patron saint of the Navy and be a symbol of your faith.