St. Elmo – Patron Saint of Sailors (St. Erasmus): Family Activity

The feast day of St. Elmo is on June 2. St. Elmo is the patron saint of sailors. He is also known as St. Erasmus. He was martyred in 303 during the reign of the Emperor Diocletian.

There is a weather phenomenon known as St. Elmo’s fire, which is similar to lightening. It is caused by glowing plasma (ionized air) from an electrical discharge, usually near a sharp or pointed object. During storms, sailors used to see this blue glowing light and considered it a sign of St. Elmo’s protection.

Celebrate St. Elmo’s special day with your family by doing your own sailing activity. Make paper boats and sail them You can sail them in a pond or creek, or even in your wading pool.

How to Make a Paper Boat