Why is Saint Christopher recognized as a saint?

Answer 1

Actually, St. Christopher is one of those legendary saints who may or may not have really existed. There is so little information known about him. Several decades ago he was removed from the official Calendar of Saints because so little was known. There were a number of saints that also were dropped, including St. Barbara of Nicomedia, St. Philomena, St. Dorothy and St. Ursula. The Church was not denying that these people were saints, they just said that too many questions remain unanswered. In the early days of the Church there was no official process for the canonization and people were declared as saints by popular acclamation. The canonization process did not begin until the 12th century. However, a number of really questionable individuals were honored as saints in ancient times. Even Buddha was, at one time, "converted" to Catholocism and named as a saint. Of course, he was one of the first to go.

In most cases, the Church allows the continued devotion to these people. However, they may not allow new parishes or disocese to be named for these questionable saints.

Answer 2

Saint Christopher is recognized as a saint for his martyrdom and miracles. He is believed to have been a Canaanite who converted to Christianity and was martyred for his faith. He is also known for carrying a child across a river, who later revealed himself as Christ, hence the name "Christopher," which means "Christ-bearer."