Blessed Amadeus - March 31st
Amadeus was a Duke of the region called Savoy in Italy. He grew up in a palace where many people were leading worldly lives, but he kept himself good. His secret for avoiding sin was to receive the sacraments often, to pray and read good books, especially the Gospel. Even after Amadeus became the ruler himself, he always began his day by reading a holy book. He especially loved to think about the sufferings of Jesus. Then he would assist at Holy Mass so devoutly that everyone who saw him felt a desire to be close to God, too. Next he would take care of all the matters that a ruler has to decide upon. He was so just and fair and kind that no king anywhere was loved more then Amadeus.
The Saint and his holy wife, Yolanda, found great happiness in making others happy. Amadeus often went himself to serve the poor people with his own hands. He said that he enjoyed that more than anything else.
Once he was told that he should not give so much away to the poor. Instead he ought to use that money to build forts to protect his lands. Do you know what Duke Amadeus answered to that? He said: "The best forts are the loving hearts of my people."
Though kind and gentle, on the battlefield Amadeus showed himself a very brave soldier. And he was a good father, raising his children to love and obey God.
The best way to get our younger brothers and sisters to obey us is to win their love. And they will love us if we are always kind and fair with them.
3/31/08
3/30/08
St. John Climacus
St. John Climacus - March 30th
St. John was an intelligent teenager who did very well in school. He could have become a famous teacher, but he decided to serve God with his whole heart. He went to a monastery and tried very hard to get rid of his defects. Then he went to live for forty years by himself and spent all his time praying and reading the lives of the saints. At first, St. John was very badly tempted by the devil. The devil is always furious when people decide to give themselves completely to God. John felt all kinds of bad passions trying to make him give in and sin.. But he put all his trust in Jesus and prayed harder than ever. So the temptations never made him fall into sin. In fact, he only grew holier. he became so close to God that many heard of his holiness and went to ask him for advise.
God gave St. John a wonderful gift.This was the gift of bringing peace to people who were upset and tempted. Once there came to him a man who was having terrible temptations. He asked St. John to help him and told him how hard it was for him to fight these temptations. St. John invited him to pray with him to God. After they had prayed, peace filled the poor man's soul and he was never again troubled with those temptations.
When the Saint was seventy-four years old, he was chose Abbot of Mt. Sinai and Superior of all the monks and hermits in the country. Another abbot asked St. John, before his death, to write the rules which he had lived by all his life, so that others could follow his example. With great humility St. John wrote the book called The Climax of Perfection. And that is why he is called "Climacus".
It is very wise to keep a good book in our room and read it a little bit each day.
3/29/08
Sts. Jonas, Barachisius and their Companions
Sts. Jonas, Barachisius and their Companions - March 29th
King Sapor of Persia hated the Christians and he persecuted them cruelly. He destroyed their churches and monasteries. Two brothers named Jonas and Barachisius heard of the persecutions and of the many Christians who had been put to death.
They decided to go to help them and to encourage them to remain faithful to Christ. Jonas and Barachisius knew that they, too, might be captured. But that did not stop them . Their hearts were too full of love of others to have room for a thought of themselves.
When at last these holy brothers were taken prisoner, they were told that if they did not worship the sun, and the moon, and the fire and water, they would be tortured and put to death. Of course, they refused to worship anything or anyone except the one true God. They had to suffer greatly, but they prayed and kept thinking of how Our Lord suffered for love of them.
Jonas was placed in a frozen pond and left there a whole night. His wicked tormentors came next morning and asked him if he had had a miserable night. St. Jonas answered that it was the most pleasant night he had ever had because he was suffering for Christ! Many other tortures these saints had to endure, but they accepted all of them willingly and finally were put to death. They gladly gave up their lives for Jesus.
When we have some little pain, are we brave enough to offer it up to Jesus in secret? Or do we have to let everyone know how much it hurts us?
King Sapor of Persia hated the Christians and he persecuted them cruelly. He destroyed their churches and monasteries. Two brothers named Jonas and Barachisius heard of the persecutions and of the many Christians who had been put to death.
They decided to go to help them and to encourage them to remain faithful to Christ. Jonas and Barachisius knew that they, too, might be captured. But that did not stop them . Their hearts were too full of love of others to have room for a thought of themselves.
When at last these holy brothers were taken prisoner, they were told that if they did not worship the sun, and the moon, and the fire and water, they would be tortured and put to death. Of course, they refused to worship anything or anyone except the one true God. They had to suffer greatly, but they prayed and kept thinking of how Our Lord suffered for love of them.
Jonas was placed in a frozen pond and left there a whole night. His wicked tormentors came next morning and asked him if he had had a miserable night. St. Jonas answered that it was the most pleasant night he had ever had because he was suffering for Christ! Many other tortures these saints had to endure, but they accepted all of them willingly and finally were put to death. They gladly gave up their lives for Jesus.
When we have some little pain, are we brave enough to offer it up to Jesus in secret? Or do we have to let everyone know how much it hurts us?
3/28/08
St. John Capistrano
St. John Capistrano - March 28th
St. John Capistrano was born in Italy. He was a lawyer and Governor of Perugia. When enemies of the city threw John into prison, he started to think about what he was doing with his life. In the meantime, his wife died. John began to realize that the only thing that really mattered was to save his soul. So when he was set free by a miracle, he entered the Franciscan monastery. He was thirty years old at the time. He did much penance. For many years he ate not meat at all, except when he was sick. He slept only three or four hours at night and his bed was a hard board.
After he was made a priest, John was sent out to preach. He and St. Bernardine of Siena spread devotion to the Holy Name of Jesus everywhere. John preached all over Europe for forty years, and all who heard his sermons were moved to love and serve Our Lord better.
The greatest moment in the life of this Saint came at the tremendous battle of Belgrade. The Turks had made up their minds to conquer all Europe and wipe out the Church of Jesus. The Pope sent St. John to all the Christian Kings of Europe to beg them to unite to fight the mighty Turkish army. The Kings obeyed this poor, barefoot monk who stirred up their love of God and their courage with his fiery words. But even though a big army of Christians came to fight Mohammed II and hit Turks, it looked as though they would lose, for the enemy army was much bigger. Then it was that the Saint himself, though he was seventy years old, ran to the front lines and encouraged the men to keep fighting. Holding his crucifix up high, this thin, small old man kept crying, “Victory, Jesus, victory!” And the Christian soldiers felt full of more courage than ever. They fought until the enemy ran away in great fear!
Just one person can do great things, if he is on God’s side. Let us make up our mind always to be on Our Lord’s side and stand up for what is right.
St. John Capistrano was born in Italy. He was a lawyer and Governor of Perugia. When enemies of the city threw John into prison, he started to think about what he was doing with his life. In the meantime, his wife died. John began to realize that the only thing that really mattered was to save his soul. So when he was set free by a miracle, he entered the Franciscan monastery. He was thirty years old at the time. He did much penance. For many years he ate not meat at all, except when he was sick. He slept only three or four hours at night and his bed was a hard board.
After he was made a priest, John was sent out to preach. He and St. Bernardine of Siena spread devotion to the Holy Name of Jesus everywhere. John preached all over Europe for forty years, and all who heard his sermons were moved to love and serve Our Lord better.
The greatest moment in the life of this Saint came at the tremendous battle of Belgrade. The Turks had made up their minds to conquer all Europe and wipe out the Church of Jesus. The Pope sent St. John to all the Christian Kings of Europe to beg them to unite to fight the mighty Turkish army. The Kings obeyed this poor, barefoot monk who stirred up their love of God and their courage with his fiery words. But even though a big army of Christians came to fight Mohammed II and hit Turks, it looked as though they would lose, for the enemy army was much bigger. Then it was that the Saint himself, though he was seventy years old, ran to the front lines and encouraged the men to keep fighting. Holding his crucifix up high, this thin, small old man kept crying, “Victory, Jesus, victory!” And the Christian soldiers felt full of more courage than ever. They fought until the enemy ran away in great fear!
Just one person can do great things, if he is on God’s side. Let us make up our mind always to be on Our Lord’s side and stand up for what is right.
3/27/08
St. John Damascene
St. John Damascene – March 27th
St. John was born in the city of Damascus of a good Christian family. When his father died, he became the Governor of Damascus. At this time, the Emperor Leo made the law forbidding Christians to have statues or pictures of Our Lord and the Saints. St. John Damascene knew the Emperor was wrong and he joined with many others to defend this practice of the Christians. The Pope himself asked John to keep telling people that it is a good thing to have statues and holy pictures. They make us thing of Our Lord, our Blessed Mother and the Saints. But the Emperor would not give in to the Holy Father, and he again forbade statues to be put in public places. St. John bravely wrote three letters, telling the Emperor to give up his wrong ideas.
The Emperor became so furious that he wanted revenge. The Saint was condemned to have his right hand cut off, but the Blessed Mother attached it to his arm again in answer to his prayer.
This miracle made John decide to resign as Governor, give away all his money to the poor and become a monk. He kept on writing marvellous books to defend the Catholic religion, and at the monastery. One day he even went to sell baskets in the streets of Damascus. Many of those who had known him before were mean enough to laugh at him. Here was the man who had once been the great Governor of the city now selling baskets that nobody wanted to buy! Imagine how St. John must have suffered! Yet he thought of Jesus, the Son of God, Who wanted to be born in a stable, and then he felt happy to imitate Our Lord’s humility.
At the end of a long life full of merits, St. John died a peaceful, happy death.
Do we have nice pictures or statues of Our Lord, the Blessed Mother, and the Saints? Let us look at them often. They will remind us to pray to them an ask their help.
St. John was born in the city of Damascus of a good Christian family. When his father died, he became the Governor of Damascus. At this time, the Emperor Leo made the law forbidding Christians to have statues or pictures of Our Lord and the Saints. St. John Damascene knew the Emperor was wrong and he joined with many others to defend this practice of the Christians. The Pope himself asked John to keep telling people that it is a good thing to have statues and holy pictures. They make us thing of Our Lord, our Blessed Mother and the Saints. But the Emperor would not give in to the Holy Father, and he again forbade statues to be put in public places. St. John bravely wrote three letters, telling the Emperor to give up his wrong ideas.
The Emperor became so furious that he wanted revenge. The Saint was condemned to have his right hand cut off, but the Blessed Mother attached it to his arm again in answer to his prayer.
This miracle made John decide to resign as Governor, give away all his money to the poor and become a monk. He kept on writing marvellous books to defend the Catholic religion, and at the monastery. One day he even went to sell baskets in the streets of Damascus. Many of those who had known him before were mean enough to laugh at him. Here was the man who had once been the great Governor of the city now selling baskets that nobody wanted to buy! Imagine how St. John must have suffered! Yet he thought of Jesus, the Son of God, Who wanted to be born in a stable, and then he felt happy to imitate Our Lord’s humility.
At the end of a long life full of merits, St. John died a peaceful, happy death.
Do we have nice pictures or statues of Our Lord, the Blessed Mother, and the Saints? Let us look at them often. They will remind us to pray to them an ask their help.
3/26/08
St. Ludger
St. Ludger - March 26th
St. Ludger was born in Northern Europe. Since his parents were nobles, he was given a very good education. When he was just fourteen, he asked his parents to send him to the great monastery school of Utrecht. There he saw St. Boniface and always treasured the memory of the great Saint. Another Saint named Gregory was his teacher and he found Ludger a very attentive and eager pupil.
After he had studied hard many years, he was made a priest. Now Ludger began to travel far and wide preaching to the people. He was very happy to share all that he had learned about God with everyone who listened to him. Many pagans were converted. Many Christians began to live much better lives. And St. Ludger built churches and monasteries everywhere.
Ludger worked very hard and made much progress. Then, suddenly the Saxons, a group of barbarians, attacked his land and drove all the priest out! It seemed as though all the Saint’s work would be lost. But Ludger did not give up. He first found a safe place for his disciples and then went to Rome to ask the Holy Father what he what he should do.
For over three years, Ludger lived in the Benedictine monastery as a good, holy monk. But he did not forget his poor people at home. As soon as he could get back into his country, Ludger returned and continued his work. He labored very hard and converted many of the pagan Saxons.
When he was made a bishop, Ludger gave even more good example by his great kindness and piety. Once, jealous men spoke against him to King Charlemagne, and the King ordered him to come to court to defend himself. Ludger went obediently. The next day when the King sent for him, Ludger said he would come as soon as he had finished his prayers. King Charlemagne was very angry at first. But St. Ludger explained that although he had great respect for the King, he knew God came first. “Your Majesty will not be angry with me,” he said, “for you yourself have told me always to put God first.” At such a wise answer, the King realized that Ludger was very holy and from then on, he admired and loved him very much.
St. Ludger died on Passion Sunday. He performed his duties in the service of God even on the day he died.
Let us appreciate the good education our parents are giving us. Some day we will be happy to be able to use all that we have learned.
St. Ludger was born in Northern Europe. Since his parents were nobles, he was given a very good education. When he was just fourteen, he asked his parents to send him to the great monastery school of Utrecht. There he saw St. Boniface and always treasured the memory of the great Saint. Another Saint named Gregory was his teacher and he found Ludger a very attentive and eager pupil.
After he had studied hard many years, he was made a priest. Now Ludger began to travel far and wide preaching to the people. He was very happy to share all that he had learned about God with everyone who listened to him. Many pagans were converted. Many Christians began to live much better lives. And St. Ludger built churches and monasteries everywhere.
Ludger worked very hard and made much progress. Then, suddenly the Saxons, a group of barbarians, attacked his land and drove all the priest out! It seemed as though all the Saint’s work would be lost. But Ludger did not give up. He first found a safe place for his disciples and then went to Rome to ask the Holy Father what he what he should do.
For over three years, Ludger lived in the Benedictine monastery as a good, holy monk. But he did not forget his poor people at home. As soon as he could get back into his country, Ludger returned and continued his work. He labored very hard and converted many of the pagan Saxons.
When he was made a bishop, Ludger gave even more good example by his great kindness and piety. Once, jealous men spoke against him to King Charlemagne, and the King ordered him to come to court to defend himself. Ludger went obediently. The next day when the King sent for him, Ludger said he would come as soon as he had finished his prayers. King Charlemagne was very angry at first. But St. Ludger explained that although he had great respect for the King, he knew God came first. “Your Majesty will not be angry with me,” he said, “for you yourself have told me always to put God first.” At such a wise answer, the King realized that Ludger was very holy and from then on, he admired and loved him very much.
St. Ludger died on Passion Sunday. He performed his duties in the service of God even on the day he died.
Let us appreciate the good education our parents are giving us. Some day we will be happy to be able to use all that we have learned.
3/25/08
Annunciation of the Blessed Virgin Mary
Annunciation of the Blessed Virgin Mary - March 25th
When the time came for Our Savior to come down from Heaven, God sent St. Gabriel to the little town of Nazareth, where the Blessed Virgin Mary lived. The glorious Archangel entered Mary’s little house and found her praying.
“Hail Mary, full of graces!” said the Angel. “The Lord is with you, and you are blessed among women.” Mary was surprised to hear the angel’s words of praise.
“Hail Mary, full of graces!” said the Angel. “The Lord is with you, and you are blessed among women.” Mary was surprised to hear the angel’s words of praise.
“Do not be afraid, Mary,” said St. Gabriel. Then he told her that she was to be the Mother of Jesus our Savior. Mary understood what great honor God was giving her. Yet she said, “Behold the handmaid of the Lord!” At that very moment, she became the Mother of God. And still she called herself His handmaid-His servant!
Mary knew, too, that as the Mother of Jesus, she would have many sorrows. She knew she would have to suffer when her Son suffered. Yet, with all her heart, she said, “Be it done to me according to your word.”
On this occasion, our Blessed Mother gave us a wonderful example of humility and obedience. Let us, too, show God our love by obeying those who represent Him-our parents and teachers.
3/24/08
St. Gabriel, Archangel
St. Gabriel, Archangel - Patron of Radio, Television, Telephone, and Mail Workers - March 24th
Gabriel is one of the three glorious Archangels, whom we honor and to whom we pray.
It was St. Gabriel who appeared to the Blessed Mother and told her she was to be the mother of God. God chose him for this very special mission.
In the Holy Bible we read of his appearances on the earth. In each of his visits to men, St. Gabriel gives us wonderful examples of charity and humility. He came to tell the Prophet Daniel when Jesus would be born, and he spoke to him with great courtesy and kindness. When he appeared to Zachary to tell him he was to be the father of St. John the Baptist, he showed his humility. He did not even say who he was until just before he disappeared.
And when Gabriel announced to the Blessed Virgin Mary that she was to be the Mother of God, he was very respectful and reverent. With loving devotion, he greeted her and have her God’s message. What great joy it was for him to announce to the Queen of Heaven and earth the coming of Jesus!
Devoutly and respectfully we will say three Hail Mary’s to the Blessed Mother every morning and night.
Gabriel is one of the three glorious Archangels, whom we honor and to whom we pray.
It was St. Gabriel who appeared to the Blessed Mother and told her she was to be the mother of God. God chose him for this very special mission.
In the Holy Bible we read of his appearances on the earth. In each of his visits to men, St. Gabriel gives us wonderful examples of charity and humility. He came to tell the Prophet Daniel when Jesus would be born, and he spoke to him with great courtesy and kindness. When he appeared to Zachary to tell him he was to be the father of St. John the Baptist, he showed his humility. He did not even say who he was until just before he disappeared.
And when Gabriel announced to the Blessed Virgin Mary that she was to be the Mother of God, he was very respectful and reverent. With loving devotion, he greeted her and have her God’s message. What great joy it was for him to announce to the Queen of Heaven and earth the coming of Jesus!
Devoutly and respectfully we will say three Hail Mary’s to the Blessed Mother every morning and night.
3/23/08
St. Toribio
St. Toribio - March 23rd
This Spanish saint was a famous judge, wise and just. Although he was not a priest at that time, he was asked to become Archbishop of Lima in Peru, South America. That was because everyone knew what a fine Christian he was. Toribio did not think he was worthy. He begged to be excused from the honor. But when he learned about the miserable condition of the Indians in Peru, he could not refuse to help them and to bring them to the Faith. He was ordained a priest and set out for Peru.
As Archbishop, St. Toribio traveled all over the land, over the snowy mountains on foot, over the hot sands of the seashore. He built churches and hospitals. He built schools to train priests. He learned the different languages of the Indians so that he could preach to them in their troubles and protected them from being treated cruelly by those who had conquered them.
After a life of charity to his beloved Indians, St. Toribio was called to heaven.
Let us treat everyone in the same kind manner, and be especially good to those who are not as fortunate as we.
This Spanish saint was a famous judge, wise and just. Although he was not a priest at that time, he was asked to become Archbishop of Lima in Peru, South America. That was because everyone knew what a fine Christian he was. Toribio did not think he was worthy. He begged to be excused from the honor. But when he learned about the miserable condition of the Indians in Peru, he could not refuse to help them and to bring them to the Faith. He was ordained a priest and set out for Peru.
As Archbishop, St. Toribio traveled all over the land, over the snowy mountains on foot, over the hot sands of the seashore. He built churches and hospitals. He built schools to train priests. He learned the different languages of the Indians so that he could preach to them in their troubles and protected them from being treated cruelly by those who had conquered them.
After a life of charity to his beloved Indians, St. Toribio was called to heaven.
Let us treat everyone in the same kind manner, and be especially good to those who are not as fortunate as we.
3/22/08
St. Catherine of Sweden
St. Catherine of Sweden - March 22nd
St. Catherine was born in Sweden of holy parents. Her mother was St. Bridget and her father, the good Prince Ulfo. When she was seven, Catherine was placed in a convent to be educated.
At the age of fourteen, she was given marriage to a good young nobleman. So well did Catherine speak of the happiness of belonging to God alone that her husband agreed to live with her as her brother. These two holy servants of God spent most of their time in prayer, mortification and works of charity.
St. Catherine had to suffer insults and unkind treatment, even from her own relatives. Yet, she did not become upset. She offered it all to God.
When St. Catherine accompanied her mother to Rome, she received news of her husband’s death in Sweden. Many people wanted her to marry again, because she was still young and pretty. But Catherine firmly refused. With the help of God, she remained a virgin all her life.
Four hours a day Catherine prayed. She spent the rest of her time serving God and doing good to many people. After her mother died, she entered a convent. St. Catherine had the great joy of seeing her own mother canonized as a saint.
Let us learn from this pure virgin never to look at anything impure or displeasing to God.
St. Catherine was born in Sweden of holy parents. Her mother was St. Bridget and her father, the good Prince Ulfo. When she was seven, Catherine was placed in a convent to be educated.
At the age of fourteen, she was given marriage to a good young nobleman. So well did Catherine speak of the happiness of belonging to God alone that her husband agreed to live with her as her brother. These two holy servants of God spent most of their time in prayer, mortification and works of charity.
St. Catherine had to suffer insults and unkind treatment, even from her own relatives. Yet, she did not become upset. She offered it all to God.
When St. Catherine accompanied her mother to Rome, she received news of her husband’s death in Sweden. Many people wanted her to marry again, because she was still young and pretty. But Catherine firmly refused. With the help of God, she remained a virgin all her life.
Four hours a day Catherine prayed. She spent the rest of her time serving God and doing good to many people. After her mother died, she entered a convent. St. Catherine had the great joy of seeing her own mother canonized as a saint.
Let us learn from this pure virgin never to look at anything impure or displeasing to God.
3/21/08
St. Benedict
St. Benedict - Patron Against Poisoning and of Speleologists - March 21st
St. Benedict was the son of a rich Italian family. His life was full of adventure and wonderful deeds. As a young boy, he was sent to Rome to study in the public schools. When he was a young man, because he was disgusted with the vices of the world, he left the city and went looking for a place where he could devote all his time to praying and loving God. In a cave in the mountain of Subiaco, he spent three years alone. The devil often tempted him to go back to his rich home, but Benedict overcame these temptations by prayer and penance. One day, the devil kept making him think of a beautiful lady he had once seen in Rome. He tried to make him go back to look for that lady. Benedict almost gave in to the temptation, but then he felt so sorry that he threw himself into a bush of long, sharp thorns. He rolled around in these terrible thorns until he was covered with blood. From then on, he had no more temptations to impurity.
After three years, God let a priest know where Benedict was living, and soon many people came to him to learn how to become holy. He became the leader of some men who had asked his help. But when he tried to make them do penance, they grew angry. They were so wicked that they even tried to poison Benedict. He made the Sign of the Cross over the poisoned wine and by a miracle, the glass shattered to pieces! God had saved him!
Later, Benedict became the leader of many good monks.
He founded twelve monasteries in Subiaco, and then went to Cassino, where he built a famous monastery. It was here that St. Benedict wrote the wonderful rules for the Benedictine order. He taught his monks to pray and work hard, and, especially, to be humble always. Both Benedict and his monks greatly helped the people of their times by teaching them how to read and write, how to farm, and how to work at different trades.
St. Benedict was able to do so much good, because he prayed very much.
Whenever we are tempted, especially to impurity, let us say a prayer at once. And let us make whatever sacrifice must be made to avoid sinning.
St. Benedict was the son of a rich Italian family. His life was full of adventure and wonderful deeds. As a young boy, he was sent to Rome to study in the public schools. When he was a young man, because he was disgusted with the vices of the world, he left the city and went looking for a place where he could devote all his time to praying and loving God. In a cave in the mountain of Subiaco, he spent three years alone. The devil often tempted him to go back to his rich home, but Benedict overcame these temptations by prayer and penance. One day, the devil kept making him think of a beautiful lady he had once seen in Rome. He tried to make him go back to look for that lady. Benedict almost gave in to the temptation, but then he felt so sorry that he threw himself into a bush of long, sharp thorns. He rolled around in these terrible thorns until he was covered with blood. From then on, he had no more temptations to impurity.
After three years, God let a priest know where Benedict was living, and soon many people came to him to learn how to become holy. He became the leader of some men who had asked his help. But when he tried to make them do penance, they grew angry. They were so wicked that they even tried to poison Benedict. He made the Sign of the Cross over the poisoned wine and by a miracle, the glass shattered to pieces! God had saved him!
Later, Benedict became the leader of many good monks.
He founded twelve monasteries in Subiaco, and then went to Cassino, where he built a famous monastery. It was here that St. Benedict wrote the wonderful rules for the Benedictine order. He taught his monks to pray and work hard, and, especially, to be humble always. Both Benedict and his monks greatly helped the people of their times by teaching them how to read and write, how to farm, and how to work at different trades.
St. Benedict was able to do so much good, because he prayed very much.
Whenever we are tempted, especially to impurity, let us say a prayer at once. And let us make whatever sacrifice must be made to avoid sinning.
3/20/08
St. Cuthbert
St. Cuthbert - Patron of Sailors - March 20th
St. Cuthbert lived in England. He was a poor shepherd boy who loved to play games with his friends. He was very good at them, too. One of his friends scolded him for loving to play so much. Cuthbert never forgot this wise correction. Our Lord granted him a vision when he was fifteen; and after that he strongly desired to become a saint. He entered a monastery and later became a missionary.
From one village to another, from house to house, St. Cuthbert went, on horse or on foot. He did good everywhere, and brought many souls to God. So cheerful and kind was he that everyone felt attracted to him. Yet he himself was more contented to be alone with God.
When Cuthbert was made Bishop, he worked just as hard as ever to help souls. As he lay dying, he urged his monks to live in peace and charity with everyone.
Let us be so kind and good that no one will find it hard to get along with us.
St. Cuthbert lived in England. He was a poor shepherd boy who loved to play games with his friends. He was very good at them, too. One of his friends scolded him for loving to play so much. Cuthbert never forgot this wise correction. Our Lord granted him a vision when he was fifteen; and after that he strongly desired to become a saint. He entered a monastery and later became a missionary.
From one village to another, from house to house, St. Cuthbert went, on horse or on foot. He did good everywhere, and brought many souls to God. So cheerful and kind was he that everyone felt attracted to him. Yet he himself was more contented to be alone with God.
When Cuthbert was made Bishop, he worked just as hard as ever to help souls. As he lay dying, he urged his monks to live in peace and charity with everyone.
Let us be so kind and good that no one will find it hard to get along with us.
3/19/08
St. Joseph
St. Joseph - Patron of Universal Church and of Working Men - March 19th
St. Joseph is a great saint, the foster-father of Jesus Christ, and the husband of the Blessed Mother. He was given the great privilege of taking care of God’s Son, Jesus, and His Mother, Mary. Joseph was poor all his life, even though he came from a family of kings. He has to work very hard in his carpenter shop, but he did not mind. He was happy to work for his little family, the holiest family there ever was.
Whatever the Lord wanted him to do, St. Joseph did at once, no matter how hard it was. He was humble and pure; he was gentle and wise. Jesus and Mary obeyed his perfectly. What an honor for St. Joseph to see the Son of God Himself obeying him and helping him, as a good son!
St. Teresa chose St. Joseph as the protector of her Order of Sisters. She had great trust in his prayers. "Every time I ask St. Joseph for something," she said, "he always obtains it for me."
As Jesus obeyed and helped St. Joseph in his hard and humble work, let us, too, willingly help our parents with the work to be done at home.
3/18/08
St. Cyril of Jerusalem
St. Cyril of Jerusalem - March 18th
St. Cyril was born in Jerusalem and at the age of thirty was ordained a priest. He was given the duty of instructing the preparing the people for baptism. Cyril taught in a very clear, simple way that everyone could understand. He often repeated the words of the Holy Bible. Because the words of the Bible are the words of God, they move peoples hearts.
When the Bishop died, Cyril was chosen to take his place. Not long after he became Bishop of Jerusalem, a bright cross appeared in the sky. It was two miles long and reached from Mt. Calvary, where Jesus died, to Mt. Olivet, where Jesus suffered the Agony in the Garden. Perhaps this was a sign of the great persecutions the Church had to suffer in this period.
In St. Cyril’s time, the Emperor Julian, who had given up his Christian faith, said that Jesus had been wrong when He declared that the temple of Jerusalem would not be rebuilt. He decided to try to prove it. So he spent much money and sent all the materials for a new temple. Many people helped by giving jewels and precious metals. Yet St. Cyril was sure that the temple could not be built, because Jesus, Who is God, said so. And sure enough, first a storm, then an earthquake and finally a fire stopped the Emperor, and those with him had given up. God had put an end to their wicked plan!
Let us make up our minds never to read or to listen to anything which is different from what Jesus and His holy Church teach us.
3/17/08
St. Patrick
St. Patrick - Patron of Ireland - March 17th
It is believed that St. Patrick was born in Britain of Roman parents.
When he was sixteen, he was captured by pirates and taken to Ireland. There he was sold as a slave. His owner sent him to tend his flocks on the mountains. St. Patrick had very little food and clothing. Yet every morning, even in rain, snow and ice, he would get up early to pray. A hundred time a day and a hundred times during the night, Patrick prayed to God. His faith thus grew stronger all the time and his love for God increased.
Later, when he escaped from Ireland, he studied to become a priest. But Patrick always felt that he must go back to Ireland to bring that pagan land to Christ. At last his wish came true. He was consecrated a Bishop and sent by the Holy Father to Ireland. How happy he was to bring the good news of the true God to the poor pagans of the land where once he had been a slave!
Right from the start, Patrick suffered much. His relatives and friends wanted him to quit before the pagan Irish killed him. Yet the Saint kept on preaching about Jesus, traveling from one village to the another. He never rested, and he did great penance for these people whom he so loved. Before he died, the whole nation was Christian! And besides bringing the Irish to the Faith, he made them a civilized, learned people.
Despite such great success, St. Patrick never grew proud. He called himself a poor sinner and gave all the praise to God.
Today, we shall perform at least one spiritual work of mercy. For example, we may pray for missionaries in pagan lands.
It is believed that St. Patrick was born in Britain of Roman parents.
When he was sixteen, he was captured by pirates and taken to Ireland. There he was sold as a slave. His owner sent him to tend his flocks on the mountains. St. Patrick had very little food and clothing. Yet every morning, even in rain, snow and ice, he would get up early to pray. A hundred time a day and a hundred times during the night, Patrick prayed to God. His faith thus grew stronger all the time and his love for God increased.
Later, when he escaped from Ireland, he studied to become a priest. But Patrick always felt that he must go back to Ireland to bring that pagan land to Christ. At last his wish came true. He was consecrated a Bishop and sent by the Holy Father to Ireland. How happy he was to bring the good news of the true God to the poor pagans of the land where once he had been a slave!
Right from the start, Patrick suffered much. His relatives and friends wanted him to quit before the pagan Irish killed him. Yet the Saint kept on preaching about Jesus, traveling from one village to the another. He never rested, and he did great penance for these people whom he so loved. Before he died, the whole nation was Christian! And besides bringing the Irish to the Faith, he made them a civilized, learned people.
Despite such great success, St. Patrick never grew proud. He called himself a poor sinner and gave all the praise to God.
Today, we shall perform at least one spiritual work of mercy. For example, we may pray for missionaries in pagan lands.
3/16/08
St. Abraham
St. Abraham - March 16th
St. Abraham was born in Mesopotamia of a rich, noble family. He married because that was what his parents wanted. But immediately after the wedding, he told his wife that he wanted to live and die as a virgin. Then secretly he left home to live only for God. His friends looked for him for seventeen days. They finally found him praying in a little cell outside the city. He begged them to let him stay and at last they gave in.
Abraham’s cell had only one little window, through which he received food and drink. Here he spent all his time. Adoring and praising God, and begging His mercy. All he had was a cloak and a piece of sackcloth to wear and one dish out of which he ate a drank. Ten years after Abraham had left the world, he received all his parents’ fortune. But he gave it to the poor. Many people called upon him for advise. On seeing this, the Bishop ordained Abraham a priest and sent him to preach to people who were enemies of our holy Faith. Abraham would have been happier to stay in his cell, but he obeyed cheerfully.
He was often beaten and insulted by those people. Three times he was sent away, but each time he returned with greater zeal. After three years, the people were finally moved by his meekness and patience. Through the prayers of Abraham, they all received baptism!
When his brother died, St Abraham took upon himself the care of his brother’s only child, Mary. He placed her in a little cell next to his own and instructed her himself. Mary became very pious and dear to God. But after twenty years of this holy life, she was attracted by the world. She ran away to a distant town and there committed many sins. For two years, St. Abraham wept and prayed for her conversion. Finally he found out where she was living, and he went to talk to her. She was so ashamed when she saw him! “Mary,” he said, “what has become of your angelic life and your prayers?” Then, seeing how sorry she was, he comforted her lovingly. He promised her that she would be happy again if she would follow his advice. Poor Mary! She cried and thanked him for coming. She promised to obey perfectly. So Abraham put her on his horse and led her back to her cell. There Mary did great penance and wept for her sins until she died a saint fifteen years later. She was so sorry that she had offended God. And Our Lord showed how pleased He was with Mary’s sorrow for her sins. He gave her the gift of working miracles by her prayers.
St. Abraham lived ten more years after he had led his niece, St. Mary, back to God.
St. Abraham converted the pagans and his niece with his prayers and mortifications. We must pray and offer up little sacrifices when we need graces.
St. Abraham was born in Mesopotamia of a rich, noble family. He married because that was what his parents wanted. But immediately after the wedding, he told his wife that he wanted to live and die as a virgin. Then secretly he left home to live only for God. His friends looked for him for seventeen days. They finally found him praying in a little cell outside the city. He begged them to let him stay and at last they gave in.
Abraham’s cell had only one little window, through which he received food and drink. Here he spent all his time. Adoring and praising God, and begging His mercy. All he had was a cloak and a piece of sackcloth to wear and one dish out of which he ate a drank. Ten years after Abraham had left the world, he received all his parents’ fortune. But he gave it to the poor. Many people called upon him for advise. On seeing this, the Bishop ordained Abraham a priest and sent him to preach to people who were enemies of our holy Faith. Abraham would have been happier to stay in his cell, but he obeyed cheerfully.
He was often beaten and insulted by those people. Three times he was sent away, but each time he returned with greater zeal. After three years, the people were finally moved by his meekness and patience. Through the prayers of Abraham, they all received baptism!
When his brother died, St Abraham took upon himself the care of his brother’s only child, Mary. He placed her in a little cell next to his own and instructed her himself. Mary became very pious and dear to God. But after twenty years of this holy life, she was attracted by the world. She ran away to a distant town and there committed many sins. For two years, St. Abraham wept and prayed for her conversion. Finally he found out where she was living, and he went to talk to her. She was so ashamed when she saw him! “Mary,” he said, “what has become of your angelic life and your prayers?” Then, seeing how sorry she was, he comforted her lovingly. He promised her that she would be happy again if she would follow his advice. Poor Mary! She cried and thanked him for coming. She promised to obey perfectly. So Abraham put her on his horse and led her back to her cell. There Mary did great penance and wept for her sins until she died a saint fifteen years later. She was so sorry that she had offended God. And Our Lord showed how pleased He was with Mary’s sorrow for her sins. He gave her the gift of working miracles by her prayers.
St. Abraham lived ten more years after he had led his niece, St. Mary, back to God.
St. Abraham converted the pagans and his niece with his prayers and mortifications. We must pray and offer up little sacrifices when we need graces.
3/15/08
St. Zachary
St. Zachary - March 15th
St. Zachary was a Benedictine monk from Greece who became a Cardinal and then Pope. In his time, there was much fighting all over Italy between one kingdom and another. Pope St. Zachary was the one who kept making peace and saving people from terrible wars. At times he risked his life to do it.
It was because the Saint was so gentle and kind that leaders did what he asked. Even for his enemies he would do favors and give them the kindest treatment possible. He never took revenge on them.
St. Zachary had special care for the churches of Rome. He loved to make them as beautiful as he could, out of love for Jesus dwelling on the altars.
Towards the poor, this holy Pope was a real father. He built big homes for them and for travelers. His loving heart could not bear to see people suffer. Once he heard that some businessmen had bought poor slaves in Rome and were going to sell them in Africa. He called those men and scolded them for being so cruel. Then he paid them the price they were asking for the slaves and set the poor slaves free.
When St. Zachary died, all the people were saddened to have lost such a good and saintly father.
St. Zachary had much respect for Our Lord’s presence in every church. Let us, too, have respect for the House of God and never talk or joke in church.
St. Zachary was a Benedictine monk from Greece who became a Cardinal and then Pope. In his time, there was much fighting all over Italy between one kingdom and another. Pope St. Zachary was the one who kept making peace and saving people from terrible wars. At times he risked his life to do it.
It was because the Saint was so gentle and kind that leaders did what he asked. Even for his enemies he would do favors and give them the kindest treatment possible. He never took revenge on them.
St. Zachary had special care for the churches of Rome. He loved to make them as beautiful as he could, out of love for Jesus dwelling on the altars.
Towards the poor, this holy Pope was a real father. He built big homes for them and for travelers. His loving heart could not bear to see people suffer. Once he heard that some businessmen had bought poor slaves in Rome and were going to sell them in Africa. He called those men and scolded them for being so cruel. Then he paid them the price they were asking for the slaves and set the poor slaves free.
When St. Zachary died, all the people were saddened to have lost such a good and saintly father.
St. Zachary had much respect for Our Lord’s presence in every church. Let us, too, have respect for the House of God and never talk or joke in church.
3/14/08
St. Matilda
St. Matilda - March 14th
St. Matilda was the daughter of a German count. When she was still quite young, her parents married her to a nobleman named Henry, who became King of Germany.
As Queen, Matilda lived a life of prayer and virtue. Everyone who saw her realized how pure and humble and good she was. She loved to visit and comfort the sick and to help prisoners. Her holy husband saw all the good she was doing, and decided to help her.
When King Henry died, St. Matilda suffered very much. He died very suddenly, and the poor Queen decided then and there to live for God alone. So she called the priest to offer Mass for him and then gave him all the jewels she was wearing. She promised to give up the things of the world from then on.
Although she was a saint, Matilda made a big mistake: she favored her son Henry more than his brother, in the struggle to see who would be king. But she was very sorry for having done this and she made up for it by accepting great sufferings all the rest of her life.
After years spent in practicing charity and penance, St. Matilda died a peaceful, holy death and was buried beside her good husband.
From St. Matilda, let us learn to offer up little sufferings to make up for our sins.
3/13/08
St. Euphrasia
St. Euphrasia - March 13th
St. Euphrasia was born of a saintly and noble parents. Her father died when she was only five years old. Her mother, who is also named St. Euphrasia, took her to Egypt. There they lived in a large house near a convent of good and holy nuns.
Euphrasia begged her mother to let her serve God in the convent in which the holy nuns lived. Her good mother cried with joy. Soon afterwards, she took the child to the convent and put her in the care of the Abbess. The Abbess asked Euphrasia if she would be able to leave behind all her riches and comforts. She asked the girl is she thought she could live a life of sacrifice for Jesus. The young girl answered right away that she would be happy to do anything, as long as she could stay in the house of God. So the Abbess accepted her.
When her mother died, the Emperor reminded Euphrasia that her parents had promised her in marriage to a rich young senator. Of course Euphrasia wanted to belong to no one but Jesus. So she wrote a respectful letter to the Emperor. In it she said: “I belong to Jesus, and I cannot give myself to anyone else. My only desire is that the world should forget about me completely. I humbly beg Your Majesty to take all the riches my parents left me and give them to the poor. I ask Your Majesty to free all the slaves of my family and to cancel all the debts people own me.”
The Emperor thought her letter was so beautiful that he read it out loud to all the senators. Then he did everything she had asked.
For her generosity, God showered Euphrasia with special favors and graces. On her part, she thought only of becoming a saint. And she succeeded. The devil tempted her very much, especially with temptations of impurity, but Euphrasia prayed harder than ever. She made even more sacrifices than usual. That is why she was always victorious over the devil. She grew holier every day until God called her home to Heaven.
It is all right to be happy with the nice clothes and many good things we have. But we should never forget that all these things are nothing compared to what we shall have in Heaven-if we live as Jesus wants us to live.
St. Euphrasia was born of a saintly and noble parents. Her father died when she was only five years old. Her mother, who is also named St. Euphrasia, took her to Egypt. There they lived in a large house near a convent of good and holy nuns.
Euphrasia begged her mother to let her serve God in the convent in which the holy nuns lived. Her good mother cried with joy. Soon afterwards, she took the child to the convent and put her in the care of the Abbess. The Abbess asked Euphrasia if she would be able to leave behind all her riches and comforts. She asked the girl is she thought she could live a life of sacrifice for Jesus. The young girl answered right away that she would be happy to do anything, as long as she could stay in the house of God. So the Abbess accepted her.
When her mother died, the Emperor reminded Euphrasia that her parents had promised her in marriage to a rich young senator. Of course Euphrasia wanted to belong to no one but Jesus. So she wrote a respectful letter to the Emperor. In it she said: “I belong to Jesus, and I cannot give myself to anyone else. My only desire is that the world should forget about me completely. I humbly beg Your Majesty to take all the riches my parents left me and give them to the poor. I ask Your Majesty to free all the slaves of my family and to cancel all the debts people own me.”
The Emperor thought her letter was so beautiful that he read it out loud to all the senators. Then he did everything she had asked.
For her generosity, God showered Euphrasia with special favors and graces. On her part, she thought only of becoming a saint. And she succeeded. The devil tempted her very much, especially with temptations of impurity, but Euphrasia prayed harder than ever. She made even more sacrifices than usual. That is why she was always victorious over the devil. She grew holier every day until God called her home to Heaven.
It is all right to be happy with the nice clothes and many good things we have. But we should never forget that all these things are nothing compared to what we shall have in Heaven-if we live as Jesus wants us to live.
3/12/08
St. Gregory the Great
St. Gregory the Great - Patron of England and Teachers - March 12th
St. Gregory was born in Rome of noble parents. His father was a senator and his mother was a saint, St. Celia. Gregory studied philosophy and while still young, became Governor of Rome.
When his father died, he turned his large house into a monastery. For several years he lived as a good and holy monk. Then Pope Pelagius made him one of the seven deacons of Rome, and when the Pope died, Gregory himself was chosen to take his place. The humble Saint did not want that honor at all. He was so holy and wise, however, that everyone knew he would be a good Pope. Gregory even tried to disguise himself and hide in a cave, but he was found and consecrated Pope, anyway.
For fourteen years he ruled the Church. He was one of the greatest Popes the Church has ever had, even though he always was a sickly man. St. Gregory wrote many books and preached to the people constantly. He cared for people all over the world. Indeed, he considered himself everyone’s servant. He was the first Pope to use the title “Servant of the servants of God.” Now, all the Popes use this title.
St. Gregory took special, loving care of poor people and strangers. Every day he used to feed them a good dinner. Once the Lord Himself came, dressed like one of the Saint’s poor guests. This Jesus did to show St. Gregory how pleased He was with his charity.
Once, when Gregory was still a monk, he saw some blonde boys up for sale in the slave market of Rome. He asked where they were from and was told that they were from England. The Saint felt a great desire to go to England to bring the Faith to those pagans. When he became Pope, one of the first things he did was to send some of his best monks to convert the English to Christ.
The last years of this holy Pope’s life were filled with terrible sufferings, yet he continued working for his beloved Church until the very end.
Every morning let us make the resolution to do at least one good deed of charity during the day.
St. Gregory was born in Rome of noble parents. His father was a senator and his mother was a saint, St. Celia. Gregory studied philosophy and while still young, became Governor of Rome.
When his father died, he turned his large house into a monastery. For several years he lived as a good and holy monk. Then Pope Pelagius made him one of the seven deacons of Rome, and when the Pope died, Gregory himself was chosen to take his place. The humble Saint did not want that honor at all. He was so holy and wise, however, that everyone knew he would be a good Pope. Gregory even tried to disguise himself and hide in a cave, but he was found and consecrated Pope, anyway.
For fourteen years he ruled the Church. He was one of the greatest Popes the Church has ever had, even though he always was a sickly man. St. Gregory wrote many books and preached to the people constantly. He cared for people all over the world. Indeed, he considered himself everyone’s servant. He was the first Pope to use the title “Servant of the servants of God.” Now, all the Popes use this title.
St. Gregory took special, loving care of poor people and strangers. Every day he used to feed them a good dinner. Once the Lord Himself came, dressed like one of the Saint’s poor guests. This Jesus did to show St. Gregory how pleased He was with his charity.
Once, when Gregory was still a monk, he saw some blonde boys up for sale in the slave market of Rome. He asked where they were from and was told that they were from England. The Saint felt a great desire to go to England to bring the Faith to those pagans. When he became Pope, one of the first things he did was to send some of his best monks to convert the English to Christ.
The last years of this holy Pope’s life were filled with terrible sufferings, yet he continued working for his beloved Church until the very end.
Every morning let us make the resolution to do at least one good deed of charity during the day.
3/11/08
St. Eulogius of Spain
St. Eulogius of Spain - March 11th
St. Eulogius belonged to a very famous family of Spain. He was educated by wonderful Christian teachers. While he learned his lessons, he also learned from their example to be virtuous. Even when he grew up, he kept on studying. When he finished he knew many things. He knew much about the Holy Bible. But best of all, he was a man full of a desire to bring God’s message to everyone. As a priest, he became himself the head of a famous school. Everyone admired and loved St. Eulogius because he was humble, kind and very close to God.
At this time the Mohammedans were ruling Spain. They were terrible enemies of Christianity. At first they tried to make the people give up their Faith. When the people refused, the Mohammedans began to put them to death.
Eulogius and his Bishop were put in prison along with many other good Christians. In the prison, Eulogius read the Holy Bible out loud all the time to the other prisoners. In this way he filled them with great courage. They did not feel afraid to die for Our Lord. During this time, St. Eulogius also wrote a book encouraging Christians to die rather than give up their holy Faith.
The Saint himself wanted to be a martyr more than anything else. Instead, he was let out of prison. As soon as he was free, St. Eulogius began to preach and he converted many.
The Mohammedans were so angry with Eulogius that they arrested him again. In front of the judge, he bravely declared that Jesus is God. When they condemned him to death, Eulogius thanked God! Very willingly he offered up his life for Jesus.
We are all proud of our country’s war heroes, and we dream of doing the great deeds they did. Let us be very proud of the heroes of our Faith, too, and try to be like them.
St. Eulogius belonged to a very famous family of Spain. He was educated by wonderful Christian teachers. While he learned his lessons, he also learned from their example to be virtuous. Even when he grew up, he kept on studying. When he finished he knew many things. He knew much about the Holy Bible. But best of all, he was a man full of a desire to bring God’s message to everyone. As a priest, he became himself the head of a famous school. Everyone admired and loved St. Eulogius because he was humble, kind and very close to God.
At this time the Mohammedans were ruling Spain. They were terrible enemies of Christianity. At first they tried to make the people give up their Faith. When the people refused, the Mohammedans began to put them to death.
Eulogius and his Bishop were put in prison along with many other good Christians. In the prison, Eulogius read the Holy Bible out loud all the time to the other prisoners. In this way he filled them with great courage. They did not feel afraid to die for Our Lord. During this time, St. Eulogius also wrote a book encouraging Christians to die rather than give up their holy Faith.
The Saint himself wanted to be a martyr more than anything else. Instead, he was let out of prison. As soon as he was free, St. Eulogius began to preach and he converted many.
The Mohammedans were so angry with Eulogius that they arrested him again. In front of the judge, he bravely declared that Jesus is God. When they condemned him to death, Eulogius thanked God! Very willingly he offered up his life for Jesus.
We are all proud of our country’s war heroes, and we dream of doing the great deeds they did. Let us be very proud of the heroes of our Faith, too, and try to be like them.
3/10/08
Forty Martyrs of Sebaste
Forty Martyrs of Sebaste – March 10th
Under the Emperor Licinius, these martyrs suffered at Sebaste in Armenia. When all the soldiers of their legion were commanded to offer sacrifice to the gods, these forty heroes bravely refused. They said they would willingly die for their country but they would never commit the sin of offering sacrifice to false gods. In punishment, they were stripped of their clothes and lowered into a little pond. It was winter time and very cold. They were to be left there all night to freeze to death. "It will be a terrible night," they exclaimed, ""but it will win us a happy eternity!"
The pagans kept trying to persuade them to give up their faith in the true God. If they would, they could jump into a warm bath prepared nearby. At last, one soldier gave in to the temptation. But no sooner did he enter the warm bath than he died!
A pagan guard had a vision right then of blessed spirits descending from heaven with thirty-nine crowns. He was converted himself, and casting of his clothes, he joined the other thirty-nine. So the number of forty martyrs was complete again, and the Church honors these brave heroes of Christ as saints.
Let us admire the courage of these soldiers and learn from them how to bear without complaining the heat or the cold.
Under the Emperor Licinius, these martyrs suffered at Sebaste in Armenia. When all the soldiers of their legion were commanded to offer sacrifice to the gods, these forty heroes bravely refused. They said they would willingly die for their country but they would never commit the sin of offering sacrifice to false gods. In punishment, they were stripped of their clothes and lowered into a little pond. It was winter time and very cold. They were to be left there all night to freeze to death. "It will be a terrible night," they exclaimed, ""but it will win us a happy eternity!"
The pagans kept trying to persuade them to give up their faith in the true God. If they would, they could jump into a warm bath prepared nearby. At last, one soldier gave in to the temptation. But no sooner did he enter the warm bath than he died!
A pagan guard had a vision right then of blessed spirits descending from heaven with thirty-nine crowns. He was converted himself, and casting of his clothes, he joined the other thirty-nine. So the number of forty martyrs was complete again, and the Church honors these brave heroes of Christ as saints.
Let us admire the courage of these soldiers and learn from them how to bear without complaining the heat or the cold.
3/9/08
St. Dominic Savio
St. Dominic Savio - Patron of Choir Boys - March 9th
St. Dominic Savio was born in Italy in 1842. One day when he was just four, he disappeared and his good mother went looking for him. She found the little fellow in a corner praying with his hands joined and his head bowed. Already he knew all his prayers by heart. At five, he was an altar boy. When he was seven, he received his First Holy Communion. On that solemn day he chose a motto: "Death, but not sin!" And he kept it always.
"A teenager such as Dominic, who bravely struggled to keep his innocence from baptism to the end of his life, is really a saint," said Pope St. Pius X.
Yes, Dominic was an ordinary boy with an extraordinary love for God.
At the age of twelve, Dominic entered the school run by St. John Bosco. Don Bosco examined his first and at the end of the questions, Dominic asked, "What do you think of me?"
"I think you’re good material," answered the priest, with a big smile.
"Well, then," said Dominic, "you are a good tailor, so if the material is good, take me and make a new suit out of me for Our Lord!"
Everyone in the school soon saw from the way he prayed that this boy was different. He greatly loved all the boys and even though he was younger, he used to worry about them. He was afraid that they would lose the grace of God by sinning.
One day, a fellow brought a magazine full of bad pictures to school. In a minute, a group of boys had gathered around him to see it. "What’s up?" wondered Dominic and he, too, went to look. Just one peek was enough for him. He grabbed the magazine and tore it to pieces! "Poor us!" he cried in the meantime, "Did God give us eyes to look at such things as this? Aren’t you ashamed?"
"Oh, we ere just looking at these pictures for the fun of it," said one boy.
"Sure, for fun," answered Dominic, "and in the meantime you’re preparing yourselves to go to hell!"
"Oh, what’s so wrong about looking at these pictures anyway?" another fellow demanded.
Dominic had a ready answer. "If you don’t see anything wrong," he said sadly, "this is even worse. It means you’re used to looking at shameful things!"
No one said anything after that. They all realized that Dominic was right.
Another time he stopped a terrific stone-throwing fight between two angry boys. Holding up a little crucifix between them, he said, ‘Before you fight, look as this and say, ‘Jesus Christ was innocent and He died forgiving His murderers. I am a sinner, and I am going to hurt Him by not forgiving my enemies.’ Then you can start-and throw your first stone at me!"
The two boys were so ashamed of themselves that they made up and promised to go to confession, besides.
One day Dominic began to feel sick and was sent home to get better. There he grew worse, instead, and received the last Sacraments. He was only fifteen then but he did not fear death. In fact, he was overjoyed at the thought of going to Heaven. Just before he died, he tried to sit up. "Goodbye," he murmured to his good father. Suddenly his face lit up with a smile of great joy and happiness. "I am seeing such wonderful things!’ he exclaimed. Then he spoke no more, for he had gone to Heaven.
Let us make Dominic’s motto, "Death, but not sin" our motto, too.
St. Dominic Savio was born in Italy in 1842. One day when he was just four, he disappeared and his good mother went looking for him. She found the little fellow in a corner praying with his hands joined and his head bowed. Already he knew all his prayers by heart. At five, he was an altar boy. When he was seven, he received his First Holy Communion. On that solemn day he chose a motto: "Death, but not sin!" And he kept it always.
"A teenager such as Dominic, who bravely struggled to keep his innocence from baptism to the end of his life, is really a saint," said Pope St. Pius X.
Yes, Dominic was an ordinary boy with an extraordinary love for God.
At the age of twelve, Dominic entered the school run by St. John Bosco. Don Bosco examined his first and at the end of the questions, Dominic asked, "What do you think of me?"
"I think you’re good material," answered the priest, with a big smile.
"Well, then," said Dominic, "you are a good tailor, so if the material is good, take me and make a new suit out of me for Our Lord!"
Everyone in the school soon saw from the way he prayed that this boy was different. He greatly loved all the boys and even though he was younger, he used to worry about them. He was afraid that they would lose the grace of God by sinning.
One day, a fellow brought a magazine full of bad pictures to school. In a minute, a group of boys had gathered around him to see it. "What’s up?" wondered Dominic and he, too, went to look. Just one peek was enough for him. He grabbed the magazine and tore it to pieces! "Poor us!" he cried in the meantime, "Did God give us eyes to look at such things as this? Aren’t you ashamed?"
"Oh, we ere just looking at these pictures for the fun of it," said one boy.
"Sure, for fun," answered Dominic, "and in the meantime you’re preparing yourselves to go to hell!"
"Oh, what’s so wrong about looking at these pictures anyway?" another fellow demanded.
Dominic had a ready answer. "If you don’t see anything wrong," he said sadly, "this is even worse. It means you’re used to looking at shameful things!"
No one said anything after that. They all realized that Dominic was right.
Another time he stopped a terrific stone-throwing fight between two angry boys. Holding up a little crucifix between them, he said, ‘Before you fight, look as this and say, ‘Jesus Christ was innocent and He died forgiving His murderers. I am a sinner, and I am going to hurt Him by not forgiving my enemies.’ Then you can start-and throw your first stone at me!"
The two boys were so ashamed of themselves that they made up and promised to go to confession, besides.
One day Dominic began to feel sick and was sent home to get better. There he grew worse, instead, and received the last Sacraments. He was only fifteen then but he did not fear death. In fact, he was overjoyed at the thought of going to Heaven. Just before he died, he tried to sit up. "Goodbye," he murmured to his good father. Suddenly his face lit up with a smile of great joy and happiness. "I am seeing such wonderful things!’ he exclaimed. Then he spoke no more, for he had gone to Heaven.
Let us make Dominic’s motto, "Death, but not sin" our motto, too.
3/8/08
St. John of God
St. John of God - Patron of Hospitals, of the Sick, and of Nurses - March 8th
St. John was born in Portugal. His parents were poor, but very pious. John was a shepherd for a while, then a soldier, and then a storekeeper. All this time he led a bad life. His friendship with sinful men had made him lose his fear of offending God.
When he was forty, a sermon he heard made him feel very sorry for the life he was living. He promised to make up for it. He sold the little that he had and gave to the money to the poor. Then he began a new life. Day and night he prayed and did hard penances. His great charity led him to give himself as a servant to a poor family sent into exile.
When he was forty-five, John got a house where he could care for the sick who were too poor to go to the hospital. He founded a religious order for the care of the poor. The members are called Brothers of St. John of God.
One night, St. John found a poor man on the streets who seemed half-dead. He carried him to his hospital. There he put him to bed and began to bathe him, as was his custom. But when he reached his feet, how surprised he was to see that the man’s feet seemed to be pierced like Our Lord’s. John looked up and saw that the poor man was really Jesus Himself! “John,” said Our Lord, “everything you do for the poor in My name you do for me.” Then Jesus disappeared and St. John was left with a great joy in his heart.
After ten years of hard work in his hospital, St. John became sick himself. He died on his knees in front of the alter.
St. John of god turned from his bad way of living to lead a holt life because of one sermon he heard and thought much about. We, too, could become better if we thought more about the good things we read.
St. John was born in Portugal. His parents were poor, but very pious. John was a shepherd for a while, then a soldier, and then a storekeeper. All this time he led a bad life. His friendship with sinful men had made him lose his fear of offending God.
When he was forty, a sermon he heard made him feel very sorry for the life he was living. He promised to make up for it. He sold the little that he had and gave to the money to the poor. Then he began a new life. Day and night he prayed and did hard penances. His great charity led him to give himself as a servant to a poor family sent into exile.
When he was forty-five, John got a house where he could care for the sick who were too poor to go to the hospital. He founded a religious order for the care of the poor. The members are called Brothers of St. John of God.
One night, St. John found a poor man on the streets who seemed half-dead. He carried him to his hospital. There he put him to bed and began to bathe him, as was his custom. But when he reached his feet, how surprised he was to see that the man’s feet seemed to be pierced like Our Lord’s. John looked up and saw that the poor man was really Jesus Himself! “John,” said Our Lord, “everything you do for the poor in My name you do for me.” Then Jesus disappeared and St. John was left with a great joy in his heart.
After ten years of hard work in his hospital, St. John became sick himself. He died on his knees in front of the alter.
St. John of god turned from his bad way of living to lead a holt life because of one sermon he heard and thought much about. We, too, could become better if we thought more about the good things we read.
3/7/08
St. Thomas Aquinas
St. Thomas Aquinas - Patron of Universities, Colleges, and Schools - March 7th
St. Thomas Aquinas was the son of a noble family of Italy. Thomas was very, very intelligent, but he was never proud about it. He knew that his mind was a gift from God.
When he was nineteen, he entered the Dominican Order, even though his family was very much against it. When he was on his way to Paris to study, his angry brothers captured him and kept him a prisoner in one of their castles for two years. During that time they did all they could to make him change his mind. They even sent bad women to his room to tempt him. But Thomas grabbed a burning brand from the fireplace and chased her away! His sister also came to try to give up his vocation. But Thomas spoke so beautifully about the joy of serving God that it was she who changed her mind and decided to give her life to God! At last the Saint was set free.
Because this lovable Saint was chubby and a bit quiet, he was teased and called the “dumb ox” while he was a student. Yet Thomas never grew angry. He just offered it all to Jesus and Mary, whom he loved with all his heart.
St. Thomas wrote so well about God that people all over the world have used his books for hundreds of years now. The secret of his success was that he never began to write anything without first praying.
When traveling to see the Pope, Thomas became ill. Just before he died, a brother asked him what was the best way of living without offending God. Thomas answered, “He who lives in the presence of God and loves Him will never be separated from Him by sin.”
If we want to do well in school, let us imitate St. Thomas by praying and trying our very best.
St. Thomas Aquinas was the son of a noble family of Italy. Thomas was very, very intelligent, but he was never proud about it. He knew that his mind was a gift from God.
When he was nineteen, he entered the Dominican Order, even though his family was very much against it. When he was on his way to Paris to study, his angry brothers captured him and kept him a prisoner in one of their castles for two years. During that time they did all they could to make him change his mind. They even sent bad women to his room to tempt him. But Thomas grabbed a burning brand from the fireplace and chased her away! His sister also came to try to give up his vocation. But Thomas spoke so beautifully about the joy of serving God that it was she who changed her mind and decided to give her life to God! At last the Saint was set free.
Because this lovable Saint was chubby and a bit quiet, he was teased and called the “dumb ox” while he was a student. Yet Thomas never grew angry. He just offered it all to Jesus and Mary, whom he loved with all his heart.
St. Thomas wrote so well about God that people all over the world have used his books for hundreds of years now. The secret of his success was that he never began to write anything without first praying.
When traveling to see the Pope, Thomas became ill. Just before he died, a brother asked him what was the best way of living without offending God. Thomas answered, “He who lives in the presence of God and loves Him will never be separated from Him by sin.”
If we want to do well in school, let us imitate St. Thomas by praying and trying our very best.
3/6/08
Sts. Felicitas and Perpetua
Sts. Felicitas and Perpetua - St. Felicitas, Patroness for Motherhood - March 6th
Perpetua was a young wife who lived long ago in the early days of the great Roman Empire. Her father was a rich nobleman, so Perpetua had everything she wanted. But she loved Jesus more than anything in this world.
Perpetua’s father was a pagan, and he did everything possible to make her give up her Christian faith to save her life. But Perpetua did not give in, no matter how her father cried and begged and threatened her. At last, he fell onto his knees and kissed her hands, calling her “Lady,” instead of “daughter.” Still Perpetua did not give up her resolution to be loyal to Christ - not even when she was asked to do it for the sake of her little baby.
She and her Christian maid, Felicitas, were condemned to death.
Felicitas was also a young wife, and while she was in prison for her Faith, she became a mother, too. Her little baby was at once adopted by a good Christian women. Felicitas was happy because now she could die as a martyr.
Perpetua and Felicitas bravely faced martyrdom together, encouraging and helping each other.
The martyrs were faithful to Christ as to make great sacrifices and to give up their lives for Him. Let us learn from them at least to make cheerfully the little sacrifices that come our way.
Perpetua was a young wife who lived long ago in the early days of the great Roman Empire. Her father was a rich nobleman, so Perpetua had everything she wanted. But she loved Jesus more than anything in this world.
Perpetua’s father was a pagan, and he did everything possible to make her give up her Christian faith to save her life. But Perpetua did not give in, no matter how her father cried and begged and threatened her. At last, he fell onto his knees and kissed her hands, calling her “Lady,” instead of “daughter.” Still Perpetua did not give up her resolution to be loyal to Christ - not even when she was asked to do it for the sake of her little baby.
She and her Christian maid, Felicitas, were condemned to death.
Felicitas was also a young wife, and while she was in prison for her Faith, she became a mother, too. Her little baby was at once adopted by a good Christian women. Felicitas was happy because now she could die as a martyr.
Perpetua and Felicitas bravely faced martyrdom together, encouraging and helping each other.
The martyrs were faithful to Christ as to make great sacrifices and to give up their lives for Him. Let us learn from them at least to make cheerfully the little sacrifices that come our way.
3/5/08
St. John Joseph of the Cross
St. John Joseph of the Cross - March 5th
St. John Joseph of the Cross was born in southern Italy on the feast of the Assumption. He was a young noble, but dressed like a poor man. He did that because he wanted to be as poor as Jesus was.
At the age of sixteen, John Joseph entered the Franciscan Order. He made many sacrifices. He slept only three hours every night and ate very plain food.
Later he became a priest and the Superior of the monastery. Still he always insisted on doing the hardest work. He did the kind of duties that no one would ordinarily like to do.
St. John Joseph had a very loving nature. But he did not try to win love for himself. Instead, he showered all his affection on his brethren and was like a father to all.
This good priest loved God so much that even when he was sick, he kept on working. He dearly loved the Blessed Virgin, too, and tried to bring others to love her.
From this saint let us learn not to be selfish. Let us love everyone alike and show our love in words and deeds.
St. John Joseph of the Cross was born in southern Italy on the feast of the Assumption. He was a young noble, but dressed like a poor man. He did that because he wanted to be as poor as Jesus was.
At the age of sixteen, John Joseph entered the Franciscan Order. He made many sacrifices. He slept only three hours every night and ate very plain food.
Later he became a priest and the Superior of the monastery. Still he always insisted on doing the hardest work. He did the kind of duties that no one would ordinarily like to do.
St. John Joseph had a very loving nature. But he did not try to win love for himself. Instead, he showered all his affection on his brethren and was like a father to all.
This good priest loved God so much that even when he was sick, he kept on working. He dearly loved the Blessed Virgin, too, and tried to bring others to love her.
From this saint let us learn not to be selfish. Let us love everyone alike and show our love in words and deeds.
3/4/08
St. Casimir of Poland
St. Casimir of Poland - Patron of Poland - March 4th
St. Casimir was one of the thirteen children of the King of Poland. With the help of his virtuous mother and his devout tutor, Casimir grew in wisdom and virtue.
At the age of thirteen he had the chance to become king, but he refused. The rest of his life he spent in trying to become a saint. He was always cheerful and friendly with everyone. He fasted, slept on the ground and prayed in the middle of the night. He loved to meditate on the Passion of Jesus, which is a good way of learning to love our God, Who loves us so much. Casimir also loved the Blessed Virgin with a special love. In her honor he loved to recite a beautiful hymn very often. We have a part of it in English and it is called, "Daily, Daily, Sing to Mary."
Casimir was never too healthy, yet he was courageous and strong in character. He would always do what he knew was right. Sometimes he would even advise his father, the King, to rule the people fairly. He always did this with great respect, and his father would listen to him.
St. Casimir had a great love for virginity. Even though his parents found a very beautiful and virtuous young woman for him to marry, he chose to give his heart to God alone.
St. Casimir died when he was still very young.
Even if we are not too strong or healthy, we can still be strong in character. We can always stand up for what is right, but in a kind way.
St. Casimir was one of the thirteen children of the King of Poland. With the help of his virtuous mother and his devout tutor, Casimir grew in wisdom and virtue.
At the age of thirteen he had the chance to become king, but he refused. The rest of his life he spent in trying to become a saint. He was always cheerful and friendly with everyone. He fasted, slept on the ground and prayed in the middle of the night. He loved to meditate on the Passion of Jesus, which is a good way of learning to love our God, Who loves us so much. Casimir also loved the Blessed Virgin with a special love. In her honor he loved to recite a beautiful hymn very often. We have a part of it in English and it is called, "Daily, Daily, Sing to Mary."
Casimir was never too healthy, yet he was courageous and strong in character. He would always do what he knew was right. Sometimes he would even advise his father, the King, to rule the people fairly. He always did this with great respect, and his father would listen to him.
St. Casimir had a great love for virginity. Even though his parents found a very beautiful and virtuous young woman for him to marry, he chose to give his heart to God alone.
St. Casimir died when he was still very young.
Even if we are not too strong or healthy, we can still be strong in character. We can always stand up for what is right, but in a kind way.
3/3/08
St. Cunegundes
St. Cunegundes - Patroness of Poland - March 3rd
St. Cunegundes was the daughter of a King. She was married to the Emperor, St. Henry II. This holy couple leg virgin lives, like brother and sister. Even though she was the Empress, St. Cunegundes spent a great deal of her time in prayer and in works of charity. She gave up all the good times she could have had in the palace. She visited the poor and the sick in the hospitals and also cared for lepers.
St. Cunegundes and her husband, St. Henry loved each other very much. They never quarreled. And they gave one another good example in the practice of every virtue. But the devil was jealous of their goodness and he tried to cause trouble between them. Wicked people accused the Empress of having committed a shameful sin. Since she remained silent about it, her husband believed them and felt very bad. For this reason, she asked to be permitted to go through the trial by fire, according to the custom of those days. She walked barefoot on red-hot pieces of metal for quite some time. Yet she was not burned at all! By this miracle God showed her husband and all the people that she was innocent.
When her husband, St. Henry, died, Cunegundes sold all that she owned and gave it to the poor. Then she followed the call of Christ to the convent.
There, for fifteen years, she was the most humble and obedient of all the nuns. She seemed to have forgotten completely that she was ever an Empress. She even begged her Superiors to give her the hardest and most lowly work to do.
St. Cunegundes was made Patroness of Poland.
We can always keep ourselves pure, even in the midst of many dangers. But we have to pray and to avoid bad companions, bad books and magazines, bad movies and TV shows. We also have to mortify our senses, especially our eyes and our sense of touch - whether we are alone or with others.
3/2/08
St. Simplicius
St. Simplicius - March 2nd
St. Simplicius was a Pope. In his day great numbers of the people had many wrong ideas about the Christian faith and many, many others were pagans. St. Simplicius was alone in trying to correct these evils but since he was both learned and holy he never gave up. More than by words, he taught with the example of his holy life and always he corrected others with charity and humility. Yet his good, fatherly heart had to suffer very much because some Christians stubbornly held on to their wrong opinions. Then with great sorrow, St. Simplicius had to put them out of the Church.
He was Pope for fifteen years and eleven months. Then Our Lord called him to receive the reward of his labors.
Let us be grateful to those who correct us, even when it hurts, because they are the ones who love us.
St. Simplicius was a Pope. In his day great numbers of the people had many wrong ideas about the Christian faith and many, many others were pagans. St. Simplicius was alone in trying to correct these evils but since he was both learned and holy he never gave up. More than by words, he taught with the example of his holy life and always he corrected others with charity and humility. Yet his good, fatherly heart had to suffer very much because some Christians stubbornly held on to their wrong opinions. Then with great sorrow, St. Simplicius had to put them out of the Church.
He was Pope for fifteen years and eleven months. Then Our Lord called him to receive the reward of his labors.
Let us be grateful to those who correct us, even when it hurts, because they are the ones who love us.
3/1/08
St. Eudocia
St. Eudocia - March 1st
Eudocia was a very beautiful young women who loved rich clothes and jewels. People called her the most beautiful women of her times. She lived a carefree, sinful life in her rich house in Egypt. One night she awoke because the sound of singing was coming from the next house. After the singing stopped, she heard the same voice reading aloud about what sinners suffer in hell, and what the Saints enjoy in Heaven. Eudocia was so frightened that she could not sleep any more. The next morning she found out that the strange voice was a monk’s. He was the guest of her neighbor and had gotten up at night, as he always did, to praise God and pray. She asked him to explain to her what he had read. When she began to cry over her sins, the holy monk told her not to be discouraged. He told her to start leading a good life from then on.
Eudocia was taught all about the Christian religion and was then baptized. Right afterwards she freed all her slaves. She encouraged them to become Christians, too. No more did she care for money and left her rich house. From then on, she became a model Christian because of the great virtue she practiced.
Eudocia went off to live alone and serve Jesus with prayer and penance. She ended her life by gaining the crown of martyrdom during the Emperor Trajan’s persecution of the Christians.
When we make the resolution to become better, the devil tries to make us break it. Let us never listen to him. Instead, we must pray and go to Confession and Communion often. Then we will be strong enough to overcome every temptation.
Eudocia was a very beautiful young women who loved rich clothes and jewels. People called her the most beautiful women of her times. She lived a carefree, sinful life in her rich house in Egypt. One night she awoke because the sound of singing was coming from the next house. After the singing stopped, she heard the same voice reading aloud about what sinners suffer in hell, and what the Saints enjoy in Heaven. Eudocia was so frightened that she could not sleep any more. The next morning she found out that the strange voice was a monk’s. He was the guest of her neighbor and had gotten up at night, as he always did, to praise God and pray. She asked him to explain to her what he had read. When she began to cry over her sins, the holy monk told her not to be discouraged. He told her to start leading a good life from then on.
Eudocia was taught all about the Christian religion and was then baptized. Right afterwards she freed all her slaves. She encouraged them to become Christians, too. No more did she care for money and left her rich house. From then on, she became a model Christian because of the great virtue she practiced.
Eudocia went off to live alone and serve Jesus with prayer and penance. She ended her life by gaining the crown of martyrdom during the Emperor Trajan’s persecution of the Christians.
When we make the resolution to become better, the devil tries to make us break it. Let us never listen to him. Instead, we must pray and go to Confession and Communion often. Then we will be strong enough to overcome every temptation.
