Humility of the Saints: The Litany of Humility Made Flesh

 Maria V. Gallagher discovers a healthy prescription for living in the new book by Patrick O'Hearn.  

Humility of the Saints: The 'Litany of Humility' Made Flesh

By Patrick O'Hearn

Published by Sophia Institute Press

From the moment I saw the positive pregnancy test result, motherhood represented a continual lesson in humility for me.

I came face to face with my flaws as my maternity created a mirror that revealed the blotches on my soul. Fault-finding became an obsession as I found myself floundering trying to accomplish the basics of cooking, cleaning, and kid care.

The early days of motherhood taught me that I was filled with pride. It was the kind of pride where I seemed shocked to discover the areas in which I needed improvement. It appeared that every area of my new role required some soul-searching combined with Google searching for best methods.

A Modern Masterpiece

My tattered history with humility made me hungry to read Patrick O’Hearn’s new book, Humility of the Saints: The ‘Litany of Humility’ Made Flesh. I have to say that it satiated my spirit and made me more determined than ever to strive to imitate the saints.

The book, published by Sophia Institute Press, is a modern masterpiece. It provides plenty of examples of individuals who achieved holiness, one humble act at a time. Each chapter is dedicated to a part of the Litany of Humility, which you can find on the Internet and on many prayer apps.

In a book I wrote, I encouraged people to pray the Litany of Humility each day. It’s a difficult prayer to contemplate because it requires stripping yourself of desires for being esteemed, loved, and approved. But I have discovered that life is actually much sweeter when I relinquish my self-will and surrender to the Lord. That means giving up striving for awards and accolades and instead focusing on His will for my life.

Wisdom from the Saints

O’Hearn profiles a diverse collection of saints in his book — some famous, some less so. But all shared a common desire to pull out the weeds of pride from the garden of their hearts.

For instance, one of my favorite saints, Saint Thérèse of Lisieux, remarked to her sibling Celine,

If I could begin my life all over again, I should desire to remain ever as a very little child constantly reaching out for help from the Child Jesus. (23)

Simplicity was also important to Saint Carlo Acutis, otherwise known as the Millennial Saint. The saint, famous for his computer expertise and his ever-present sneakers, once said,

If God possesses our heart, we will possess Infinity. Whoever trusts only in material goods and not in the Lord is living life backward. (30)

Perfect for Parents on the Go

O’Hearn’s work is so appropriate for parents on the go. Whether you are waiting for your children in the school carpool line or sitting patiently at the doctor’s office waiting for an appointment to begin, Humility of the Saints is a wonderful companion to have for your spiritual journey.

The book is written in a style that is user-friendly, yet rich in substance. I found myself quickly devouring its pages because I was curious about the next saint I would encounter. Rather than being discouraged by the overwhelming holiness of the people profiled, I felt inspired to strive for holiness in all my endeavors.

I learned a great deal reading this impressive book — lessons that I hope to pass on to those I love. For in humility, I have uncovered joy and the hope for a better tomorrow.

Is this a book you'd like to read? Share your thoughts with the Catholic Mom community! You'll find the comment box below the author's bio and list of recommended articles.

Copyright 2026 Maria V. Gallagher
Images: (top) detail from cover