Saint Hannah, Mother of Samuel

A life of faith

Hannah endured the sorrow of childlessness within the household of Elkanah, where another wife’s hostility deepened her grief. At Shiloh she prayed so intensely that Eli first mistook her condition for drunkenness. She explained her distress, and the priest answered with a blessing. After Samuel was born, Hannah fulfilled her promise to dedicate him to God’s service. The Church also preserves her song in its biblical odes, receiving her prayer within the life of worship. Her story gives a place to pain honestly expressed before God and to gratitude that becomes a freely offered act of devotion.

The Eastern Orthodox Church remembers saints in prayer and commemoration. Their lives offer examples for Christians learning to live their faith.

A reflection

Bring sorrow into prayer without disguising the sorrow. Listen gently to another person’s grief, and avoid assuming that outward appearances explain the whole experience.

Read the Orthodox source

Feast dates follow the linked source. Local calendars and commemorations may vary. Themes describe a saint’s life; quiz suggestions do not assign a baptismal patron. Discuss choosing a patron saint with your priest.