40 Days of Grace(Day16): 10 Unpopular Ways to Grow in Holiness, Inspired by the Saints

22 March, 2025: In a world that pressures us to have the best of everything, let us dare to be the least—choosing the most unpopular paths that ultimately lead us closer to Christ. For it is in dying to ourselves, that we truly come alive in Him. The saints often embraced lesser-known ways to grow in holiness—paths that challenge our comfort and call us to radical love. Inspired by their lives, here are ten unconventional yet powerful ways to seek holiness this Lent.

1. Embrace Silence – St. Joseph

St. Joseph never speaks in Scripture, yet his silence speaks volumes. In a noisy world, we often equate holiness with activity, but Joseph teaches us that silence cultivates deep trust in God. Try spending 10 minutes daily in complete silence, allowing God to speak to your heart.

How can I create more silence in my day to hear God's voice?

2. Serve the Difficult People – St. Thérèse of Lisieux

The Little Flower intentionally sought out people who irritated her and treated them with extraordinary love. Instead of avoiding difficult relationships, Lent is an opportunity to practice patience and charity with those who challenge us.

Who in my life is difficult to love? How can I show them kindness?

3. Sleep Less for Prayer – St. Catherine of Siena

Catherine spent long hours in prayer, often sacrificing sleep to be with Christ. While rest is essential, consider waking up 15 minutes earlier to spend time in prayer, offering your first thoughts to God.

Can I give up a small comfort, like extra sleep or screen time, to spend more time with God?

4. Accept Humiliations – St. Philip Neri

St. Philip Neri embraced humility to the point of wearing silly clothes and acting foolishly to avoid pride. While we don’t need to go to extremes, we can embrace moments of humiliation—like being misunderstood or corrected—as a path to true humility.

How do I respond when I feel embarrassed or misunderstood? Can I offer it to God?

5. Fast from Criticism – St. Francis de Sales

Francis de Sales advised against gossip and harsh judgment, teaching that charity begins in our words. This Lent, instead of giving up food, consider fasting from complaints, negativity, or gossip.

Do my words build others up or tear them down? How can I speak with more love?

6. Do Small Things with Great Love – St. Teresa of Calcutta

Mother Teresa reminded us that holiness is found in doing ordinary tasks with extraordinary love. Offer small acts of kindness, like writing a note of encouragement or washing dishes with joy.

How can I make my everyday tasks an offering to God?

7. Detach from Your Own Plans – St. Ignatius of Loyola

Ignatius surrendered his personal ambitions to follow God's will. This Lent, surrender your rigid plans and be open to the interruptions and detours God allows in your day.

How do I react when my plans don’t go my way? Do I trust that God is leading me?

8. Bless Those Who Hurt You – St. Maria Goretti

Maria forgave her attacker even on her deathbed. True holiness means praying for those who wrong us and choosing to bless them instead of seeking revenge.

Is there someone I need to forgive? How can I pray for them today?

9. Live Simply – St. Francis of Assisi

Francis found joy in poverty and detachment. This Lent, declutter your home, give away unnecessary items, and practice detachment from material things.

What possessions or comforts am I too attached to? Can I give something away as an act of trust in God?

10. Trust in Gods Mercy - St. Faustina

St. Faustina’s Divine Mercy message reminds us that holiness is not about perfection but trust. If you struggle with sin or discouragement, remember that God’s mercy is greater than your failures.

Do I truly believe that God’s mercy is for me? How can I grow in trust this Lent?

This Lent, dare to walk the hidden paths of holiness—the roads the world overlooks but the saints embraced. True transformation doesn’t come from comfort but from surrender. As you step into these unpopular yet sacred ways, may you discover that the closer you draw to Christ, the less you need anything else.

By Catholic Connect Reporter