St. Malachy O'More

St. Malachy O'More - November 3rd

At the time this Irish Saint was born in St. Patrick's city of Armogh, Ireland was suffering greatly from the effects of many attacks by the Danes. As a boy, Malachy went to the school in which his father taught. When his parents died, he asked a good hermit to bring him up. At the age of twenty-five, he was ordained by St. Celsus and sent to preach all over the neighborhood of Armogh. The people had fallen into many superstitions brought to Ireland by the pagan conquerors, so Malachy had to burn branches, thorns, and trees which were supposed to be magic! Feeling the need for more instruction, the zealous priest went to St. Malchus to learn as much as he could of Church law.

Next St. Malachy was made Bishop of Connor. Here he changed many wolves into lambs, that is, he converted hardened sinners into good Christians again. As Archbishop of the great diocese of Armogh, Malachy brought about a change in evil customs and established peace between enemies through his calm dignity and courage. Many other works the Saint performed for the good of the Church. Then, in spirit of obedience, he went to see the Pope to make sure he had made no mistakes.

It was a long journey from Ireland to Rome in those days, but one good part of it was that he met the great St. Bernard. The two became very close friends. On another trip to see the Pope, Malachy called on St. Bernard and his monks again. This time he fell very ill, and the monks took loving care of him. "All your efforts are useless," he assured them, "for I will not get better." Sick as he was, he insisted on going to the chapel to receive the Sacraments for the last time. He promised to remember all the monks when he was in heaven, and then died peacefully in the arms of St. Bernard.

When we ask advice from our parents and all those who are in charge of us, we are sure of not making mistakes.