Throughout the Gospels, we see Christ entering homes, sitting at tables with all sorts of people, sharing meals, and teaching those gathered around Him. The early Christians followed His example, gathering in homes to pray, break bread, and share their faith. That instinct to open our doors and make room for others has been part of Christian life from the beginning.
But let’s be honest: hosting doesn’t always feel particularly holy. It can feel more like a juggling act of grocery runs, vacuuming, setting the table, and hoping the casserole actually cooks through. The stress is real, and sometimes it can overshadow the very joy that brought people through our door in the first place.
Which is why it helps to look to the saints—men and women who lived hospitality in both big and small ways, and who show us that welcoming others doesn’t have to be perfect to be holy.
Let’s take a look:
St. Martha - For when you’re feeling frustrated.
We all know Martha. She’s the one in the Gospel who’s scrambling to set the table while her sister Mary sits peacefully at Jesus’ feet. She gets frustrated, but who wouldn’t? Hosting is work. But Martha also had the courage to proclaim her faith out loud: “Yes, Lord, I believe.” When you’re tempted to grumble about being the only one wiping down counters, ask St. Martha to help you host with humility.
St. Zita - For the tired homemaker.
Zita was a servant in Italy who did all the behind-the-scenes work without fanfare. She’s the patron saint of domestic workers, which makes her a natural companion for anyone running the kitchen like a command center. She didn’t complain, didn’t demand thanks—she just did her work well, with kindness. Ask her for a little of that quiet steadiness when your guests are eating faster than you can refill the breadbasket.
St. Elizabeth of Hungary - For an increase of generosity.
Elizabeth had royal wealth, but what made her unforgettable was the way she used it. She fed the hungry, gave her best to the poor, and turned her castle into a place of refuge. Hosting can sometimes feel like performance—matching napkins, polished silver—but Elizabeth reminds us that all that is for naught if one isn’t giving with real generosity of heart. If your food isn’t fancy or your living room isn’t picture-perfect, it doesn’t matter as long as you’re generous in your love.
St. Pier Giorgio Frassati: For the more casual host.
Not every host is a meticulous planner. Some are more like Pier Giorgio—who loved bringing people together, hiking, and sharing meals. Rather than formal dinner parties or events, St. Pier Giorgio would create spur-of-the-moment gatherings and intimate moments with those who happened to be around him. If you feel pressured to host like Martha Stewart, Pier Giorgio says: relax. Genuine friendship and the intention to share the beatitudes matter far more than a planned tablescape and a 4-course meal.
As Catholics, we must remember that hosting isn’t about perfection. It’s about presence. These saints lived ordinary hospitality with extraordinary love.
Above all, we should look to Our Lady, who was a homemaker to the King of Kings. In simple, humble service, Our Lady sanctified the tedious and mundane housework that is unavoidable in all hosting pursuits. These beautiful Marian Floral Table Runners are a wonderful addition to any hosting environment. Order yours today from The Catholic Company!
