The Fourteen Holy Helpers became recognized during another very troubling time, the time of the bubonic plague. You can read their story in a book by Joan Albarella available on amazon.
Here is an excerpt from another book about the Fourteen Holy Helpers by Anthony Parente.
During one of the darkest times in history a little faith and intercession gave hope to the people of Europe and helped them survive what was called “The Greatest Catastrophe Ever”. During the 14th century Europe faced a major outbreak of Bubonic Plague, which was commonly called the Black Death. This devastating pandemic made its way to Europe from Asia as it estimated to have killed more than 50 million Europeans, which was over half of their population.
The Black Death wiped out small villages, entire families and even livestock. People feared for their lives. Doctors had no answers and were even afraid to care for the sick. In times of uncertainty people often look to their faith in hopes that their prayers will be answered, and they will be spared from the evil that haunts the continent. They turned to a group of Saints known for their miraculous interventions. These Saints were specifically selected for their patronage and they became known as the Fourteen Holy Helpers.
| Saint Acacius | against headaches |
| Saint Barbara | against fever and sudden death |
| Saint Blaise | against ailments of the throat |
| Saint Catherine of Alexandria | against sudden death |
| Saint Christopher | against plagues and sudden death |
| Saint Cyriacus | against temptations, especially at time of death |
| Saint Denis | against headaches |
| Saint Erasmus | against abdominal maladies and for protection of domestic animals |
| Saint Eustace | against family trouble |
| Saint George | for protection of domestic animals |
| Saint Giles | against plagues and for a good confession |
| Saint Margaret of Antioch | for safe childbirth |
| Saint Pantaleon | for physicians and for protection of domestic animals |
| Saint Vitus | against epilepsy and for protection of domestic animals |
Germany was the first to invoke these Holy Helpers. Devotion quickly spread throughout Europe and churches and shrines were dedicated in their honor. These saints all have their own feast days but in some places, they collectively celebrate the Fourteen Holy Helpers on August 8th.
Stay Safe everyone!