St. Zachary and Elizabeth

St. Zachary and Elizabeth are the parents of St. John the Baptist, known for their righteousness and deep faith in God. Their story is told in the Gospel of Luke, where Zachary is struck mute for doubting the angel’s message and later regains speech at John’s birth. Elizabeth is honored for her faith and is a relative of the Virgin Mary.

Zachary (or Zechariah) and Elizabeth lived during the first century BC, in the hill country of Judea. According to the Gospel of Luke, Zachary was a priest in the Temple of Jerusalem, serving in the division of Abijah, while Elizabeth was a descendant of Aaron, placing them both within priestly lineages.

Despite being righteous and faithful, they were childless and advanced in age, which was considered a burden in Jewish society. During a Temple service, Archangel Gabriel appeared to Zachary and announced that his wife Elizabeth would bear a son—John the Baptist, the forerunner of Christ. Because Zachary doubted, he was rendered mute until the child's birth.

When Mary, pregnant with Jesus, visited Elizabeth (in the Visitation), Elizabeth was filled with the Holy Spirit and recognized Mary as the Mother of the Lord. This moment, full of spiritual significance, also marked the recognition of Jesus as the Messiah even before His birth.

Elizabeth gave birth to John, and when Zachary confirmed his name in writing, his speech was restored. He then praised God in a beautiful hymn now known as the Benedictus, which the Church still prays daily during Morning Prayer.

Their legacy is deeply connected to the coming of the Messiah. Though not much is known beyond Scripture, both are honored as holy figures, revered for their obedience, prophetic roles, and faith.

Feast Day

5-11-

Birth Date

--1st century

Died Date

--1st century

Canonised Date

--

Israel

Dear St. Zachary and St. Elizabeth, faithful servants of God, we ask for your intercession and guidance. Help us to trust in God's plan for our lives, to remain steadfast in faith, and to find joy in His promises. May your example of devotion and prayer inspire us to live with humility and love. Pray for us, that we may grow in holiness and be open to God's will. Amen.
ST. ZACHARY AND ELIZABETH

Video Not Found

ST. ZACHARY AND ELIZABETH

The information on this website is compiled from various trusted sources. While we aim for accuracy, some details may be incomplete or contain discrepancies.

If you notice any errors or have additional information about this saint, please use the form on the left to share your suggestions. Your input helps us improve and maintain reliable content for everyone.

All submissions are reviewed carefully, and your personal details will remain confidential. Thank you for contributing to the accuracy and value of this resource.

Credits & Acknowledgments

Anudina Visudhar (Malayalam) – Life of Saints for Everyday
by Msgr. Thomas Moothedan, M.A., D.D.
Saint Companions for Each Day
by A. J. M. Mausolfe & J. K. Mausolfe
US Catholic (Faith in Real Life) – Informational articles
Wikipedia – General reference content and images
Anastpaul.com – Saint images and reflections
Pravachaka Sabdam (Malayalam) – Saint-related content and insights

We sincerely thank these authors and platforms for their valuable contributions. If we have unintentionally missed any attribution, please notify us, and we will make the correction promptly.