Did you know that the Catholic Church has a patron saint of surfing? On the occasion of International Surfing Day, we share his story and how many of those who practice this sport on the waves entrust themselves to his intercession.
You may have heard his name before: it is St. Christopher, the patron saint of travelers.
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In the 1960s, California (United States), It had become one of the most desired places for surfers.
Lovers of this sport, who came to its beaches looking for the best waves, distributed St. Christopher medals among each other before entering the sea.
These medals were hung around the neck as a symbol of protection. and it was from then on that the pattern of travelers also became that of surfing.
On one side of the medal, you can see the image of Saint Christopher – always represented as a strong and corpulent man – rowing while carrying the baby Jesus on his shoulders with the inscription “Saint Christopher protect us.”
The legend of Saint Christopher
Within the Church he is venerated as a holy martyr from the year 250, although more popular is the legend that attributes him to him and that has been passed down from generation to generation.
The image of Saint Christopher carrying a child on his shoulders It is due to a legend from Christian tradition that tells of the moment in which the saint supposedly met Jesus.
Cristóbal was dedicated to transporting travelers who wanted to cross a river from one bank to the other. And on one of those trips, he had to transport a child who climbed on his shoulders.
When he reached the other side, Christopher asked the boy why he weighed so much, and he answered: “I weigh more than the entire world, because I am the creator of the world.”. I am Christ. You were looking for me and you found me. From now on you will be called Cristoforo, Cristobal, the bearer of Christ.”
Due to this story, the image of Saint Christopher depicts his figure carrying a child who in turn holds a globe.
Originally published June 18, 2022. It has been updated for republication.
Almudena Martínez-Bordiú
I am a graduate in Journalism and Advertising from the CEU San Pablo University in Madrid. Specialized in religious information in Spain since 2015. I have been a senior correspondent for ACI Prensa and EWTN Noticias in the Vatican for two years and I am currently a European correspondent based in Spain.