Saint Timothy is the patron saint of stomach disorders, as he is known to have suffered from stomach ailments. He was a disciple of St. Paul and is named as co-author of several books of the New Testament.
If you or someone you love is struggling with a digestive illness, chronic stomach pain, or a long recovery, St. Timothy understands. Below you'll find two prayers to ask for his help, followed by the story of who he was and why Catholics have turned to him for nearly two thousand years.
Prayer to Saint Timothy
Dear Saint, well known for your gentleness, you were a most faithful disciple of Saint Paul, and like him, traveled much to bring the Good News to all people.
The Letters Paul wrote to you reveal your zeal and inspire us with confidence in you. You too were cast into prison, and you too gave your life for Christ.
So with confidence we dare to ask, please obtain relief for (name of sufferer), if it be God's will. Amen.
Like this prayer? Keep it with you on a beautiful laminated prayer card.
St. Timothy Laminated Prayer Card
Made in Italy with Fratelli Bonella artwork. Single cards or packs of 25.
Prayer Through the Intercession of Saint Timothy
Lord, you blessed St. Timothy with Apostolic virtues. Through his intercession, may we be filled with the desire and will to live good and religious lives here on earth, and thus be worthy of our heavenly home with you. Amen.
St. Timothy, pray for us.
Why Is St. Timothy the Patron of Stomach Ailments?
It comes straight from Scripture. In his first letter to Timothy, St. Paul gives his young friend some very practical, fatherly advice:
"Do not still drink water, but use a little wine for thy stomach's sake, and thy frequent infirmities."
1 Timothy 5:23 (Douay-Rheims)
Timothy worked hard, traveled constantly, and carried heavy responsibility for the Church, all while dealing with a stomach that gave him regular trouble. Paul knew it and cared about it. That small, human detail has made Timothy a natural friend to anyone living with digestive illness, from ulcers and reflux to Crohn's disease, IBS, and recovery from surgery.
Who Was St. Timothy?
Timothy grew up in Lystra, in what is now Turkey. His father was Greek, and his mother Eunice and grandmother Lois were Jewish believers who became Christians and raised him in the faith. Paul praises the sincere faith that lived first in them and then in him (2 Timothy 1:5). It is a lovely reminder of how much a mother's and grandmother's faith can shape a child.
Paul met Timothy on his missionary travels and took him along as a companion. Timothy became one of his most trusted helpers, carrying letters, strengthening young churches, and standing in for Paul when he couldn't be there. Paul calls him his beloved son in the faith. Timothy is named alongside Paul at the opening of six New Testament letters: 2 Corinthians, Philippians, Colossians, 1 and 2 Thessalonians, and Philemon. Paul also wrote two letters directly to him, 1 and 2 Timothy.
The Letter to the Hebrews mentions that Timothy had been imprisoned and released (Hebrews 13:23). Tradition holds that he became the first bishop of Ephesus and was martyred there late in the first century for speaking out against a pagan festival.
| Feast day | January 26, shared with St. Titus |
| Patron of | Stomach and intestinal disorders |
| Hometown | Lystra, in modern-day Turkey |
| Known for | Companion of St. Paul, bishop of Ephesus, martyr |
Praying for Healing with St. Timothy
You can pray the prayer above any time. Many people pray it daily during an illness, or as a novena over nine days leading up to a test, a procedure, or a doctor's appointment. Write the person's name on the back of the prayer card and keep it by the bed or in a purse.
Notice that the prayer asks for relief if it be God's will. That isn't a lack of faith. It's the same trust Jesus showed in the garden. And just as Paul gave Timothy practical advice for his stomach, asking for the saints' help goes hand in hand with good medical care. Pray, and keep your doctor in the loop too.
Keep St. Timothy Close
A medal or rosary is a quiet, everyday reminder that someone in heaven is praying with you. They also make a thoughtful gift for a friend who is sick or recovering.
 St. Timothy MedalPewter, sterling silver, or gold. Engravable. |
 St. Timothy Medal and Prayer Card SetIncludes this prayer, ready to give. Made in Italy. |
 St. Timothy Rosary for MenSilver plated, with onyx, hematite, or tiger's eye beads. |
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is the patron saint of stomach problems?
St. Timothy is the patron saint of stomach and digestive disorders. St. Paul mentions Timothy's frequent stomach ailments in 1 Timothy 5:23.
When is the feast of St. Timothy?
St. Timothy's feast day is January 26. He shares it with St. Titus, another close companion of St. Paul.
Did St. Timothy write part of the Bible?
Timothy is named as co-sender with St. Paul of six New Testament letters: 2 Corinthians, Philippians, Colossians, 1 and 2 Thessalonians, and Philemon. Paul also wrote two letters addressed to him, 1 and 2 Timothy.
Can I pray to St. Timothy for someone else?
Yes. The prayer to St. Timothy has a place to insert the name of the person who is suffering, so you can pray it for a family member, a friend, or yourself.
If you're praying for someone who is sick right now, we are praying with you. St. Timothy, pray for us.
From our family to yours,
Rich and Caroline King
Catholic Faith Store
