St. Christopher, whose name means "Christ-bearer", is an early martyr and one of many great saints of the faith. It is believed that he lived during the third century. The facts about him are uncertain, but his legend has been told throughout the centuries.

Christopher, born Offerus, was dedicated to the gods of Greece in his youth and grew to be a man of extraordinary size and strength. He pledged his service first to a king and then to Satan, but found that both masters were cowardly. He took a post transporting people across a river. One day he was carrying a small child across the river and the child grew heavier and heavier, as if the whole world rested on his shoulders. When Christopher wondered who the child could be, the child revealed that He was the Creator and Redeemer of the world.

Christopher, who carried Christ, is patron of travellers.

PRAYERS

Introductory Prayer:

O St. Christopher, patron of travellers, protect me and all those who accompany me from mishap and accident. Guide me in my travels whether by land, sea, or air to my destination with safety. As you carried Jesus upon your shoulders may I also carry the burdens of life that I face with the same determination and inspiration. And may the beauty of this world that God has created with the joy of His grace always be with me. Amen.

or

Motorists' Prayer:

Grant me, O Lord, a steady hand and watchful eye
that no one shall be hurt as I pass by.

You gave life, I pray no act of mine
may take away or mar that gift of Thine.

Shelter those, dear Lord, who bear my company,
from the evils of fire and all calamity.

Teach me, to use my car for others need;
Nor miss through love of undue speed

The beauty of the world; that thus I may
with joy and courtesy go on my way.

St. Christopher, holy patron of travellers, protect me and lead me safely to my destiny. Amen.

On each set of three beads, pray one Our Father, one Hail Mary, and one Glory Be.