San Lorenzo Ruiz: First Filipino Saint

Saint Lorenzo Ruiz, also known as Saint Laurence Ruiz is the first ever Filipino Roman Catholic Saint venerated and honored in the Catholic Church. St. Lorenzo was a martyr during the Tokugawa Shogunate - 17th century persecution of the Christians in Japan.

St Lorenzo Ruiz is considered the Patron Saint of the Filipino and Chinese Filipino youth. He is also known as the Patron Saint of the Filipino Expatriates and people lacking in basic necessities. The Feast of San Lorenzo Ruiz is every September 28.

Prayer to Saint Lorenzo Ruiz

Lord, you have given Lorenzo Ruiz
Great strength to resist the
Forces of death
Because of his great faith in your love.

Through Lorenzo’s prayers
Please make us follow his steps
Help us overcome all adversities and trials
And increase tremendously
Our hope, faith and full love for You.


Dear Saint Lorenzo Ruiz,
You gave much honor to the Philippines,
You are a humble witness of Jesus Christ in your simple life
Up to your own death.

We sent all our prayers and petitions
To the Lord God with your assistance
In order that with all our actions and prayers,
We are able to know and understand more
Our Lord Jesus Christ.

We pray for your intercession
Our dear Saint Lorenzo Ruiz,
For the honor and glory of the Lord God
And also for your honor
As a humble martyr and follower of Jesus Christ
And staunch defender of the Christian faith.

Amen.