DUBLIN -- The Irish government has added a new public holiday to the national calendar to honor the country's female patron, St. Brigid of Kildare.

In June we celebrate St. Vitus’ Day, a time that honours an unusual saint whose influence was seen throughout Europe generally and in Germany in particular.

Young Catholics seeking a role model on how to serve God during the COVID-19 pandemic can look to St. Aloysius Gonzaga, the patron saint of youth.

March 7 is the feast day for Sts. Perpetua and Felicitas — the patron saints of mothers and expectant mothers — and the story of these two courageous martyrs is appropriate to reflect upon.

Praying to patron saints can be particularly helpful to young people of faith, guiding them through difficult situations, said Fr. Francois Mifsud, chaplain at Toronto������Ƶapp University of St. Michael������Ƶapp College.

Patron saints are offered to Christians as role models, associated with issues that matter to individuals, said Mifsud.

“When you read the Gospel, some people say it������Ƶapp too hard, it������Ƶapp too much for me,” Mifsud said. “(Patron saints show that) for young people… being a Christian is possible, even though it is challenging.”