Why Saints?

Abstract

A Saint is a person who is recognized as having an exceptional degree of Holiness, likeness, or closeness to the Godhead. Many religions use similar concepts, albeit different terminologies, to venerate persons worthy of some honor. Saints across various cultures and religions have the following family resemblances: exemplary model, extraordinary teacher, wonder worker or source of benevolent power, intercessor, life often refusing material attachments or comforts, and possession of a special and revelatory relation to the Holy. From the beginning of civilization, man has placed importance on the appearance and symbolism of hair. Peculiarities relating to the hair of Saints are the miracle of hair growth (St. Agnes of Rome), long and beautiful hair (St. Mary Magdalene), long and disheveled hair (St. Mary of Egypt), generalized hypertrichosis (St. Onuphrius), facial hirsutism (St. Wilgefortis), and overnight whitening of hair (St. Thomas More). Therefore, the Saints whose attributes relate to the hair have proven suitable candidates for a number of varied trichological issues. Finally, in challenging times with capitalist technocracy changing the face of our practice at the cost of our spirituality, it is wise to get back to the basics and reflect on the examples of the Saints. Saint Josemaría Escrivá taught that everyone is called to Holiness and to discover Sanctity in their ordinary lives. The role of the Saints is to act as spiritual guides, mentors, and examples of faith. In many religions, there are individuals who have been recognized within their tradition as having fulfilled the highest aspirations of religious teaching. In English, the term Saint is often used to translate this idea from many world religions, which proves the universality of Sainthood.