“Dear Saint Lazarus,

Friend of Jesus and comfort to the suffering,

I come to you with a humble heart, seeking your compassion.

Guide me in times of hardship, grant me strength and healing,

And help me walk with faith and patience.

May your story of renewal inspire hope in my soul,

And may I find peace in the love and kindness you shared.

Saint Lazarus, pray for me,

And let your spirit of friendship and resilience be with me always.

Amen.”

While the Gospels don’t directly describe Lazarus as a "social butterfly," there are hints that he may have been a well-known and beloved figure in his community. The fact that many people came to mourn his death suggests he had strong social connections and was likely respected and cared for by many beyond his immediate family.

In that sense, we could consider him "social" in the context of his time—a person who formed meaningful connections, maintained close family bonds, and had a presence that brought people together. His friendship with Jesus, a widely known figure, might also imply a certain openness to engaging with others. So, while he might not fit today’s idea of a social butterfly, he does seem to have been deeply connected within his community.

Saint Lazarus, or San Lázaro, is a deeply revered figure in various religious and cultural traditions, often associated with healing, wellness, and compassion for the poor and sick. His story, originating in the Christian and biblical tradition, has transcended time and geography, gaining particular significance in Latin American and Afro-Caribbean spirituality. Understanding his journey to becoming a patron of healing and wellness requires exploring both the biblical accounts and how cultural and syncretic beliefs have evolved his role over centuries.

Biblical Background

The story of Lazarus of Bethany, also known as the "Friend of Jesus," appears in the New Testament, specifically in the Gospel of John (John 11:1–45). Lazarus was a close friend of Jesus, alongside his sisters, Mary and Martha. According to the biblical account, Lazarus fell seriously ill, and though his sisters sent word to Jesus, Jesus delayed his arrival. By the time he reached Bethany, Lazarus had been dead for four days. Moved by the sorrow of Mary and Martha, Jesus performed one of his most famous miracles, raising Lazarus from the dead. This act became a powerful symbol of Jesus’s compassion and the triumph of life over death, and Lazarus himself became a figure representing hope and renewal.

This miraculous event established Lazarus as a powerful symbol of healing and resurrection within Christianity. Over time, his story grew beyond the Bible, and he became venerated as Saint Lazarus, associated with miracles, healing, and salvation, embodying spiritual restoration for those suffering in mind and body.

The "Poor Lazarus" and the Parable of Lazarus

Interestingly, another Lazarus is mentioned in the New Testament in the Gospel of Luke (Luke 16:19–31), where he appears as a character in a parable told by Jesus. In this story, Lazarus is a poor, destitute man covered in sores who lies at the gate of a wealthy man. While Lazarus suffers, the rich man enjoys a luxurious life, ignoring Lazarus’s plight. Eventually, they both die: Lazarus is taken to heaven by angels, while the rich man suffers in the afterlife. This "Poor Lazarus" is seen as a representative of the poor, the sick, and the neglected, and over time, this image merged with the story of Lazarus of Bethany, reinforcing his association with the poor, the suffering, and the marginalized.

This aspect of Lazarus resonates deeply with the values of compassion and social justice. The "Poor Lazarus" became a symbol for the sick, the impoverished, and those who suffer from neglect, creating a lasting legacy as a patron saint for all who endure physical and emotional hardships.

Evolution into a Patron of Healing

The veneration of Saint Lazarus as a patron of healing developed through the blending of these two accounts and evolved even further through popular devotion. Early Christians revered Saint Lazarus as one who not only experienced resurrection but also lived with an understanding of suffering and the human condition. As Christianity spread, so did his reputation as a miraculous healer who could intercede on behalf of the sick and afflicted.

His image as a healer solidified during the Middle Ages when European Christians began invoking him for protection against diseases, especially leprosy. Lazarus became associated with lepers, partly due to the sores described in the "Poor Lazarus" parable. During the medieval period, leprosy was rampant, and leper colonies often adopted Saint Lazarus as their patron. The *Order of Saint Lazarus*, a medieval Christian military order, also emerged, initially dedicated to helping lepers, which further cemented his legacy as a saint of healing and wellness.

Afro-Caribbean and Latin American Syncretism

When European colonizers and missionaries brought Christianity to the Americas, African and indigenous communities in the Caribbean and Latin America encountered the story of Saint Lazarus. Many African spiritual traditions already included figures devoted to healing, compassion, and wellness. As a result, Saint Lazarus became syncretized with these healing deities, particularly in Afro-Caribbean and Afro-Brazilian religious practices.

In Cuban Santería, for example, Saint Lazarus is associated with the orisha Babalú-Ayé, the Yoruba god of illness and healing. Babalú-Ayé is believed to have control over infectious diseases and is called upon to heal ailments like smallpox, leprosy, and more contemporary issues such as HIV/AIDS. His role as a protector of the sick aligns closely with the depiction of Saint Lazarus, and the two figures merged into one in popular devotion. Devotees appeal to Saint Lazarus/Babalú-Ayé for miraculous healing and protection from suffering.

Modern Devotion and Legacy

Today, Saint Lazarus is one of the most popular saints in Latin America, particularly in Cuba, where his feast day, December 17, is celebrated with great fervor. Devotees make pilgrimages to shrines dedicated to him, offering candles, flowers, and other tokens as expressions of their devotion. Some believers undertake these pilgrimages as acts of penance, crawling or walking long distances in gratitude for healing or as requests for good health.

Saint Lazarus’s legacy as a healer extends beyond physical ailments to encompass spiritual and emotional well-being. In many cultures, his name is invoked for those suffering from loneliness, poverty, and despair, as he represents both the resurrection of the body and the resilience of the human spirit. For millions of believers, Saint Lazarus is a reminder that wellness is not just a matter of health but of compassion, community, and faith.

The history of Saint Lazarus is a story of transformation, compassion, and healing that bridges biblical, medieval, and modern traditions. From his miraculous resurrection to his role as a protector of the sick and poor, he embodies a message of hope that has resonated for centuries. Whether as a Christian saint, a patron of lepers, or a syncretized orisha, Saint Lazarus continues to inspire and comfort those in need, making him a powerful figure for anyone seeking healing and wellness in body and soul. His journey is a testament to the enduring human need for compassion, resilience, and faith, reminding us of the power of community in times of suffering and the promise of renewal even in the face of adversity.

Lazarus had two sisters, Mary and Martha, who are also prominent figures in the New Testament. They were a close-knit family living in Bethany, a village near Jerusalem, and were known to be dear friends of Jesus. Mary and Martha each have unique personalities that come through in the gospel stories, and they are often remembered for their faith and devotion to Jesus.

Mary and Martha's Roles in the Bible

Mary of Bethany is perhaps best known for her act of devotion in the Gospel of John, where she anoints Jesus’ feet with expensive perfume and wipes them with her hair (John 12:1-8). This event is significant as it demonstrates her deep love and respect for Jesus, as well as her understanding of his impending death, something that even the disciples struggled to fully comprehend at the time.
Mary is also depicted as a contemplative and deeply spiritual person. In the story of Jesus visiting their home (Luke 10:38-42), Mary chooses to sit at Jesus’ feet and listen to his teachings, while Martha is busy with household tasks. When Martha expresses frustration, Jesus gently tells her that Mary has chosen the “better part,” highlighting the importance of spiritual reflection and attentiveness to faith.

Martha is portrayed as practical, diligent, and hospitable, a woman who takes charge of her household and cares about providing for others. She demonstrates her faith in Jesus during one of the most pivotal moments in the story of Lazarus’s resurrection. When Lazarus falls ill and dies, it is Martha who goes out to meet Jesus, expressing her grief and faith by saying, “Lord, if you had been here, my brother would not have died” (John 11:21). Even in her sorrow, Martha expresses her belief in Jesus’s power, saying, “But even now I know that whatever you ask of God, God will give you” (John 11:22). This strong statement of faith showcases her trust in Jesus, even in the face of death.
It is in this interaction that Jesus reveals to Martha his identity as “the resurrection and the life” (John 11:25-26), a powerful moment that demonstrates Martha’s spiritual insight and her faith in him. Martha’s role in this story affirms her as a devoted follower who balances both action and faith.

The Role of Mary and Martha in Lazarus's Story

Mary and Martha play crucial roles in the story of Lazarus’s resurrection. They send for Jesus when Lazarus falls ill, demonstrating their belief in his power to heal. After Lazarus’s death, they both express their grief to Jesus, who is deeply moved by their sorrow and goes on to perform the miracle of bringing Lazarus back to life. Their faith, combined with their love for their brother, sets the stage for one of Jesus's most remarkable miracles, reinforcing the themes of compassion, faith, and hope in the face of loss.

In many ways, Mary and Martha are seen as symbols of the balance between contemplation (Mary’s focus on spiritual connection) and action (Martha’s practical approach to caring for others). Their relationship with Jesus and their faith through adversity continue to inspire believers, and they are commemorated as saints in the Christian tradition.

The Gospels don’t provide a detailed backstory about how Lazarus, Mary, and Martha first met Jesus or became close to him, but they clearly share a profound bond of friendship and faith. The family’s home in Bethany, located just a couple of miles from Jerusalem, was a place where Jesus often visited, suggesting that they offered him both friendship and a haven during his travels. Here’s how their relationship is depicted and what may have drawn them to each other:

A Family of Faith and Devotion

Mary, Martha, and Lazarus were known for their faith and devotion, and this likely resonated with Jesus. They were people who not only believed in his teachings but also loved him personally. The trust they had in him is shown repeatedly: they sought him out when Lazarus was ill, fully believing in his power to heal, and later they expressed faith in his ability to bring comfort even in the face of Lazarus’s death. This close connection indicates that they were more than followers; they were true friends of Jesus who believed in him as the Messiah.

Hospitality and Openness

In the ancient world, hospitality was a valued virtue, especially among Jewish communities. When Jesus visited their home, Martha went out of her way to make him feel welcome, preparing food and tending to his needs. This act of hospitality wasn’t just a formality—it represented a genuine connection. Martha’s desire to serve and Mary’s attentive listening reflect their love for Jesus and his teachings, indicating a mutual respect and care that likely deepened their friendship over time.

Their home in Bethany may have served as a restful place for Jesus during his ministry. He traveled extensively, often facing hostility from those who opposed his message. Having a peaceful, welcoming place to visit with trusted friends would have been invaluable to him.

Mutual Love and Compassion

The bond between Jesus and this family is apparent in his emotional reaction to Lazarus’s death. The Gospel of John describes Jesus as being "deeply moved" and even weeping when he saw Mary, Martha, and others mourning Lazarus (John 11:33-35). This is one of the few times in the Gospels where Jesus shows such deep, personal emotion, reflecting how much he cared for Lazarus and his sisters. His compassion and sorrow for their loss reveal a genuine human connection that goes beyond a teacher-student or prophet-follower relationship.

Jesus’s love for them and their love for him exemplifies the type of relationship he sought with his followers—one based on love, faith, and mutual support. This deep, emotional connection might have developed over multiple visits, shared experiences, and their mutual dedication to God.

Mary’s Act of Devotion

Another glimpse into their closeness comes from the scene where Mary anoints Jesus’ feet with costly perfume (John 12:1-8). This gesture of devotion and respect signifies an intimate understanding of his significance. Mary’s willingness to pour out expensive perfume at Jesus’ feet was an expression of love, honor, and perhaps a recognition of his approaching sacrifice. This act likely deepened their connection, showing that Mary understood something profound about Jesus’s journey.

Possible Theories on How They Met

While there is no direct account of their initial meeting, several theories offer possibilities:

• Jesus’ Ministry in Judea: Jesus frequently traveled through Judea, where Bethany was located, and he may have encountered Lazarus, Mary, and Martha during his early ministry there.
• Shared Religious Gatherings: Since they were people of faith, it’s possible they initially met through religious gatherings or community events, where Jesus’s teachings would have stood out to them.

Lazarus, Mary, and Martha became close friends with Jesus through shared values of faith, mutual respect, hospitality, and acts of compassion. Their bond goes beyond discipleship and illustrates a relationship of love and loyalty, with their home serving as a comforting refuge for Jesus during his ministry. This unique friendship not only provided him with support but also allowed them to witness firsthand his compassion and miraculous powers, cementing them as beloved figures in the story of Jesus’s life.

In ancient times, friendships often developed more naturally and swiftly because life was centered around close-knit communities, shared responsibilities, and face-to-face interactions. Here are some reasons why forming connections might have been easier and quicker in that era:

Community-Centric Lifestyle: Ancient societies were largely community-oriented, with people relying on each other for survival, whether through shared labor, religious gatherings, or mutual support in times of illness or grief. This interdependence fostered strong, immediate bonds, as people often lived close to extended family, neighbors, and fellow villagers. Life’s challenges were frequently faced together, building friendships through shared experiences and mutual reliance.

Frequent, Unhurried Interactions: Without the distractions of modern technology, people spent more time in unhurried, face-to-face interactions. Social gatherings were a natural part of life, often revolving around communal tasks like gathering water, baking bread, or tending animals. Because people spent so much time in each other’s presence, friendships formed more organically and often grew deeper over time.

Shared Beliefs and Traditions: Religious and cultural practices were deeply embedded in daily life, bringing people together through rituals, celebrations, and communal worship. Festivals, temple gatherings, and rituals created natural opportunities to bond with others who shared similar values and beliefs. For example, for Lazarus, Mary, and Martha, faith was a common ground that strengthened their bonds with Jesus and others who followed him.

A Slower Pace of Life: With fewer distractions and simpler routines, people had more time to connect on a personal level. The slower pace allowed for more meaningful conversations and more time spent with others. Relationships weren’t hurried, and people often invested in friendships with a sense of commitment and patience that can be harder to find today.

A Strong Sense of Belonging: In smaller communities, everyone had a role and a place. This created an environment where making friends felt natural, as people were constantly engaged in one another’s lives. Unlike in modern society, where individualism is more emphasized, ancient communities emphasized unity and a collective identity, encouraging people to support and care for each other as friends and neighbors.

So, without the pressures and distractions of modern life, people likely had an easier time forming genuine friendships. They shared time, space, and purpose, creating an environment where trust and friendship could flourish naturally.

Making friends with Lazarus in mind can inspire us to prioritize meaningful, compassionate connections, focusing on qualities like empathy, loyalty, and a readiness to be present for others. Lazarus’s story reminds us of the strength of friendship in supporting others during life’s challenges. Here are some ideas for forming friendships today inspired by his example:

Create Space for Deep Conversations

Lazarus, Mary, and Martha had a close bond with Jesus, marked by moments of deep, heartfelt conversation and mutual support. To foster meaningful friendships, try to create opportunities for genuine dialogue. Invite someone to share a meal, have a coffee, or take a walk together—without rushing the conversation. These relaxed, unhurried settings can make it easier to open up and form authentic connections.

Be Compassionate and Supportive

Lazarus’s family sought Jesus’s help in a time of crisis, showing vulnerability and trust. Similarly, let friends know they can turn to you in difficult moments. Showing up during someone’s tough times, listening to them, and offering comfort can strengthen bonds profoundly. Likewise, don’t hesitate to reach out when you need help—it creates balance and helps friends feel needed and trusted.

Seek Shared Values and Interests

Lazarus and his family connected with Jesus partly through shared beliefs and values. Similarly, look for people who share your values, passions, or hobbies. Whether it’s joining a community group, attending a class, or volunteering, engaging in activities that align with your beliefs can lead to friendships rooted in common purpose and mutual respect.

Embrace Consistency and Reliability

Lazarus’s family home became a place where Jesus felt welcomed and accepted. Today, being a reliable, consistent presence in someone’s life—whether by keeping in touch, checking in regularly, or making time for small acts of kindness—builds trust and shows that you’re there for the long haul.

Show Humility and Openness

In Jesus’s time, Lazarus’s family wasn’t afraid to openly express their faith and vulnerabilities, creating a foundation for trust. Similarly, approaching friendships with humility and openness allows others to feel safe being themselves around you. Don’t feel pressured to present a perfect version of yourself; instead, embrace authenticity, including your flaws, strengths, and dreams. This honesty can make you more relatable and approachable.

Extend Warm Hospitality

Martha and Mary welcomed Jesus into their home as a friend, offering a place of rest and comfort. In our lives, we can extend hospitality in simple ways—hosting a dinner, organizing a game night, or even meeting for a picnic. This warm invitation creates a space for connection, allowing friendships to deepen through shared experiences.

Nurture Friendship through Small Gestures

The simple, caring acts within Lazarus’s family made their bond special. Small gestures—like remembering a friend’s favorite things, sending a thoughtful message, or surprising them with something meaningful—demonstrate that you value and cherish the friendship. Thoughtful acts, no matter how small, can help strengthen the bond over time.

Be Patient and Present

Lazarus’s story teaches us that friendship isn’t about quick gains but about being present over time. Friendships grow slowly, through patience and mutual presence. Avoid rushing the process; instead, let the connection unfold naturally. Offer your presence, be a good listener, and appreciate the gradual build-up of trust and closeness.

By focusing on these values, we can form friendships that are not just surface-level but genuinely supportive, enriching, and rooted in mutual care. Lazarus’s life reminds us that true friendship is about being there for each other, building connections based on love, trust, and shared moments, and letting the relationship grow naturally over time.

Lazarus's life exemplifies the power of compassionate friendship. Try to cultivate deeper, more meaningful relationships by checking in on friends and family regularly, offering support during tough times, and showing genuine interest in their lives. A small act of kindness, like a call or message, can make a big difference. The story of Lazarus teaches us to hold onto hope, even in seemingly impossible situations. When facing difficulties, remember the miracle of Lazarus’s resurrection as a symbol of renewal and resilience. Practicing gratitude or taking a moment for prayer, meditation, or reflection can remind us that faith and hope can help us overcome life’s challenges.

Just as Lazarus’s family gathered to mourn and support each other, you can be a source of comfort for those around you. Offer your presence and a listening ear to those who are grieving or going through a difficult time. A simple gesture of empathy can show others they’re not alone. Lazarus’s home in Bethany was a place where Jesus felt welcomed and loved. Likewise, you can create a welcoming environment in your own home, inviting friends and family for meals or quality time. This hospitality can foster connection and give others a place to feel valued and accepted.

Lazarus’s story reminds us that meaningful relationships are built on humility and openness. Approach others with a willingness to be vulnerable, sharing both your strengths and struggles. This honesty can encourage deeper bonds and help others feel safe to be themselves around you. The resurrection of Lazarus symbolizes renewal, showing us that new beginnings are possible. Use his story as a reminder to let go of old, limiting beliefs or patterns that hold you back, embracing growth and positive change. Just as Lazarus experienced a second chance at life, we can see each day as an opportunity for transformation.

Lazarus’s family’s faith in Jesus exemplifies loyalty and patience. In friendships and family relationships, show loyalty by standing by those you care about, even during tough times. Patience in relationships helps build trust, creating a foundation of mutual support that can last a lifetime. By carrying these values forward, you can honor the spirit of Lazarus’s life and legacy, creating a more compassionate and connected daily life.

Thank you for reading about Saint Lazarus. If you want to look at the Saint Lazarus items that we carry click here.

Have a great day.