St. Foillan - October 31st
Foillan was an Irish monk whose two brothers were also Saints. They were some of the many zealous Irish apostles who left their homeland to help other countries with fewer priests than Ireland had.
Saints Foillan, Fursey, and Ultan went to England first of all and establish a monastery in Burgh Castle. From this spot they did missionary work among the people called the East Angles. When invaders of the land robbed the monastery of everything it had, Saints Foillan and Ultan decided to preach the Gospel in France. Their other brother, St. Fursey, had already worked as a missionary and died there.
King Clovis II welcomed the two holy Irishmen as he had welcomed their brother before them. Foillan was given land by Blessed Itta and her daughter. St. Gertrude asked him to preach to the nuns of the convent over which she was abbess. He did so, and had great influence on them. He also did missionary work among the Brabanters. In fact, St. Foillan is a well-remembered Irish Saint in Europe.
One day, after singing Mass for St. Gertrude and her nuns, the Saint set out with three companions to see his brother Ultan, who was preaching in another area. While passing through a forest, they were attacked by a band of robbers and killed. Their bodies were not found for about two and a half months, and then St. Gertrude had St. Foillan buried with honor in the abbey he had founded.
Let us say a prayer to Our Lord from our heart, that He may help us in the hour of our death. And let us offer Him all the sufferings which will come with death.
10/31/08
10/30/08
St. Alphonsus Rodriguez
St. Alphonsus Rodriguez – October 30th
This Spanish Saint took over the family business of buying and selling wool when he was twenty-three. Three years later, he got married and God sent him and his wife Mary two children. But many sufferings now came to Alphonsus. Business began to be bad, his little daughter died and then his wife. Now this business man began to think of what God might have in mind for him. He had always been a devout Christian, but from then on, he prayed, did penance, and went to the Sacraments more than he had ever done.
When he was nearly forty, Alphonsus’ son died, too, and despite his great sorrow, he thanked God for having taken the boy out of the danger of sinning. Alphonsus soon asked to be admitted into the Society of Jesus, but he was told he must study first. So he went back to school, this man of forty, with little boys who made fun of him. He had to beg for his food, for he had given his money to the poor. At last, he was accepted as a lay-brother and was made door-keeper at a Jesuit college.
“That brother is not a man-he is an angel!” his Superior said of him years later. Priests who knew him for forty years never heard him say or do anything which could be criticized. His kindness and obedience were known to all. Once, all the chairs in the house, even the ones from the bedrooms, had been used for a forty hours devotion. By mistake, his was not returned until the following year. Yet, because of his humility, Alphonsus had never mentioned the fact to anyone. When he was over seventy and sick, the Superior tested his obedience by saying: “You are to go to the missions of the Indies.” St. Alphonsus went straight out to the college gate to go find out when the next ship was sailing-only to be told to go back to his Superior!
During his long life, the Saint had to conquer very strong temptations, besides physical pains. Even as he lay dying, he spent a half hour in terrible agony. Then, just before he died, he was filled with peace and joy. He kissed his crucifix, looked lovingly at his brothers, and died with the name of Jesus on his lips.
Saints became saints because they were humble. Jesus said that to enter Heaven we must become humble. Today I will imitate this saint by taking the last place and doing humble work cheerfully.
10/29/08
St. Narcissus
St. Narcissus - October 29th
Narcissus was an old man when he was made Bishop of Jerusalem, but he was still an excellent Bishop. Everyone admired his virtues-everyone except the wicked. Three of these enemies of the Saint accused him of a terrible crime. One said: "May I die by fire if it is not true!" The second said: "May I be wasted away by leprosy if it is not true." The thrid said: "May I be struck blind if it is not true." Yet no one believed their lie. The people had seen Narcissus' virtues crowned with miracles too many times to believe he could have committed such a terrible sin.
Although no once believed the wicked story, St. Narcissus used it as an excuse to go off to live in the desert. His whole trust was in God, whom he had served so lovingly. And God saw to it that the story of those three men was shown to be absolutely false! Narcissus returned to be Bishop of Jerusalem, to the immense joy of his people. Although he was even older, he seemed more zealous than ever. In fact, he seemed stronger than ever, too, for a few years. Then he became too old to carry on, and begged God to send him a Bishop to help out. Our Lord sent him another Saint, Alexander of Cappadocia. In great love and zeal, they ruled together, and Narcissus lived to be one hundred sixteen years old.
God never abandons those who trust in Him. When He permits me to go through some trouble, I will not despair. I will pray, instead, and keep calm. He has His ways to defend me.
10/28/08
Saints Simon and Jude
Saints Simon and Jude – October 28th
These two Apostles of Our Lord are honored on the same day. St. Simon was called “the Zealous One” because he had so much devotion to the Jewish law before he came to know Jesus. Once he had been called by Our Lord to be an Apostle, he gave his heart and his energy to preaching the Gospel. With the other Apostles, he received the Holy Ghost on the first Pentecost. Then it is believed that he went to Egypt to preach the Faith. Afterwards he went to Persia with the Apostle St. Jude, and the two of them were martyred there.
St. Jude is sometimes called Thaddeus, which means ‘the Brave One.” It was he who asked Our Lord a famous question at the Last Supper. Jesus had said: “He who loves Me will be loved by My Father, and I will love him and manifest myself to him.” And St. Jude wanted to know: “Lord, how is it that You are about to manifest Yourself to us and not to the world?” Jesus gave him the answer: “If anyone love Me, he will keep my word, and my Father will love him, and we will come to him and make our abode with him.”
St. Jude is sometimes called the Saint of “desperate cases.” People pray to him when things seem hopeless, and often God answers their prayers through the intercession of this beloved Apostle.
St. Jude wrote a beautiful letter which is in the Bible. In it he recommends compassion towards those who have gone astray. Let us, too, be merciful to those who have made mistakes, by not condemning them and by keeping quiet about their faults.
These two Apostles of Our Lord are honored on the same day. St. Simon was called “the Zealous One” because he had so much devotion to the Jewish law before he came to know Jesus. Once he had been called by Our Lord to be an Apostle, he gave his heart and his energy to preaching the Gospel. With the other Apostles, he received the Holy Ghost on the first Pentecost. Then it is believed that he went to Egypt to preach the Faith. Afterwards he went to Persia with the Apostle St. Jude, and the two of them were martyred there.
St. Jude is sometimes called Thaddeus, which means ‘the Brave One.” It was he who asked Our Lord a famous question at the Last Supper. Jesus had said: “He who loves Me will be loved by My Father, and I will love him and manifest myself to him.” And St. Jude wanted to know: “Lord, how is it that You are about to manifest Yourself to us and not to the world?” Jesus gave him the answer: “If anyone love Me, he will keep my word, and my Father will love him, and we will come to him and make our abode with him.”
St. Jude is sometimes called the Saint of “desperate cases.” People pray to him when things seem hopeless, and often God answers their prayers through the intercession of this beloved Apostle.
St. Jude wrote a beautiful letter which is in the Bible. In it he recommends compassion towards those who have gone astray. Let us, too, be merciful to those who have made mistakes, by not condemning them and by keeping quiet about their faults.
10/27/08
Bl. Contardo Ferrini
Bl. Contardo Ferrini – October 27th
Contardo’s father was a teacher of mathematics and physics and he early began teaching his little son his own love for study. As a young man, Contardo could speak many languages besides his own Italian. He did very well in every school and college he went to, and his great love for study and for his Catholic Faith made his friends nickname him their own ‘St. Aloysius’. It was Contardo who first started clubs for college students to help them form themselves into good Christians.
When he was twenty-one, he was offered a chance to study at the University of Berlin in Germany. It was hard for him to leave his home in Italy, but he was happy to meet many devout Catholics at the University of Berlin. He wrote down in a little book what he felt the first time he went to Confession in a foreign land: it thrilled him to realize that the Catholic Church is really the same everywhere a person goes.
By the next year, Contardo was trying to decide whether he should become a priest or a monk, or whether he should marry or just what he should do. As it turned out, he took a vow to give himself only to God, but he never became a priest or a brother. He went on teaching and writing and trying always to become a more perfect Christian. While enjoying his favorite sport of mountain-climbing, he would think of God, the Creator of all the beauty he saw. People noticed that there was something different about Professor Ferrini. Once when he had passed by with his usual warm smile, someone exclaimed “That man is a Saint!”
Today I will offer my prayers for lay apostles, so that they may be able to do much good, by their good example to the people with whom they live and work.
Contardo’s father was a teacher of mathematics and physics and he early began teaching his little son his own love for study. As a young man, Contardo could speak many languages besides his own Italian. He did very well in every school and college he went to, and his great love for study and for his Catholic Faith made his friends nickname him their own ‘St. Aloysius’. It was Contardo who first started clubs for college students to help them form themselves into good Christians.
When he was twenty-one, he was offered a chance to study at the University of Berlin in Germany. It was hard for him to leave his home in Italy, but he was happy to meet many devout Catholics at the University of Berlin. He wrote down in a little book what he felt the first time he went to Confession in a foreign land: it thrilled him to realize that the Catholic Church is really the same everywhere a person goes.
By the next year, Contardo was trying to decide whether he should become a priest or a monk, or whether he should marry or just what he should do. As it turned out, he took a vow to give himself only to God, but he never became a priest or a brother. He went on teaching and writing and trying always to become a more perfect Christian. While enjoying his favorite sport of mountain-climbing, he would think of God, the Creator of all the beauty he saw. People noticed that there was something different about Professor Ferrini. Once when he had passed by with his usual warm smile, someone exclaimed “That man is a Saint!”
Today I will offer my prayers for lay apostles, so that they may be able to do much good, by their good example to the people with whom they live and work.
10/26/08
St. Evaristus
St. Evaristus – October 26th
St. Evaristus was the son of Guy, a Jew of Bethlehem who was living in Greece at the time of his son’s birth. Evaristus was brought up in the Jewish religion, and his father was so pleased with the boy’s virtue and knowledge that he sent him to the best teachers.
Evaristus became a Christian when he grew older. So great was his love for his new Faith that he decided to become a priest, too. At Rome, where he labored for souls, everyone grew to admire and love him. So it was that when the Pope was martyred, Evaristus was chosen to take his place. He felt he was completely unworthy to be Pope, but God knew better.
These were times of persecution for the Church. Such bad lies were spread about the Catholic Faith that the Romans thought nothing of putting Christians to death. Every man who became Pope was almost certain to be arrested. For about nine years, St. Evaristus ruled the Church, and his zeal was so great that the number of believers grew larger every day. At last, however, he was captured.
The jailors were amazed to see the joy on the holy man’s face as he was led to prison. St. Evaristus thought himself very privileged to have been found worthy to suffer and die for Jesus. No better gift could have been given him than his martyrdom.
I will live as a true Christian, even when this is hard to do.
St. Evaristus was the son of Guy, a Jew of Bethlehem who was living in Greece at the time of his son’s birth. Evaristus was brought up in the Jewish religion, and his father was so pleased with the boy’s virtue and knowledge that he sent him to the best teachers.
Evaristus became a Christian when he grew older. So great was his love for his new Faith that he decided to become a priest, too. At Rome, where he labored for souls, everyone grew to admire and love him. So it was that when the Pope was martyred, Evaristus was chosen to take his place. He felt he was completely unworthy to be Pope, but God knew better.
These were times of persecution for the Church. Such bad lies were spread about the Catholic Faith that the Romans thought nothing of putting Christians to death. Every man who became Pope was almost certain to be arrested. For about nine years, St. Evaristus ruled the Church, and his zeal was so great that the number of believers grew larger every day. At last, however, he was captured.
The jailors were amazed to see the joy on the holy man’s face as he was led to prison. St. Evaristus thought himself very privileged to have been found worthy to suffer and die for Jesus. No better gift could have been given him than his martyrdom.
I will live as a true Christian, even when this is hard to do.
10/25/08
FEAST OF OUR LORD JESUS CHRIST THE KING
FEAST OF OUR LORD
JESUS CHRIST THE KING
JESUS CHRIST THE KING
The Last Sunday of October (Sunday between October 25 and 31 inclusive)
Pope Pius XI (whose motto was: Pax Christi in regno Christi) instituted the feast of Christ the King as a solemn affirmation of our Lord’s kingship over every human society; He is King, not only the soul and conscience, intelligence and will of all men, but also of families and cities, peoples and states and the whole universe. In his Encyclical Letter "Quas primas" the Pope showed how laicism or secularism, organizing society without any reference to God, leads to the apostasy of the masses and the ruin of society, because it is a complete denial of Christ’s Kingship. This is one of the great heresies of our time, and the Pope considered that this annual, public, social and official assertion of Christ’s divine right of Kingship over men in the liturgy would be an effective means of combating it.
That Christ if King over all creation is the theme of the whole Mass and Office of the feast. The Mass begins with the magnificent Apocalyptic vision of the Lamb of God, sacrificed but henceforth glorified for ever, acclaimed by the innumerable host of Angels and Saints (Intr.). By its position on the last Sunday of October, towards the end of the Liturgical year and just before All Saints, the feast of Christ the King comes as the climax of our celebration of all Christ’s mysteries and a kind of earthly anticipation of his everlasting reign over the elect in the glory of heaven. It sums up the Christian message that by His Death and Resurrection Christ has conquered sin and death and reigns in the glory of His victory among the elect who are its fruit. Christ is the creative Word; He is the Man-God, seated at the right hand of the Father; He is our Saviour; these are His threes title to kingship.
Prayer to Christ the King
O CHRIST Jesus, I acknowledge You King of the Universe. All that has been created has been made for You. Exercise upon me all Your rights. I renew my baptismal promises, renouncing Satan and all his works and pomps. I promise to live a good Christian life and to do all in my power to procure the triumph of the rights of God and Your Church. Divine Heart of Jesus, I offer You my poor actions in order to obtain that all hearts may acknowledge Your sacred Royalty, and that thus the reign of Your peace may be established throughout the universe. Amen.
Blessed Richard Gwyn
Blessed Richard Gwyn – October 25th
Richard was a Welshman who lived in the time of Queen Elizabeth I, ruler of England and Wales, too. Because most of the people in Wales were still Catholic, the Queen and her ministers determined to crush the Faith there by cruel laws. Priests or people who were loyal to the Holy Father were put in prison, tortured and killed by a horrible method. Richard himself only became a Catholic after he had finished college and had become a teacher.
Before long, he was a hunted man. He escaped from jail once and a month later was arrested again. “You will be freed,” he was told, “if you will give up the Catholic Faith.” Bl. Richard absolutely refused. He was brought to a non-Catholic Church by force, but he upset the preacher’s whole sermon by clanking his chains loudly! Furious, the officials put him in the stocks for eight hours, and many came to abuse and insult him.
More time in prison and periods of torture followed. The Queen’s men wanted him to give them the names of other Catholics, but Richard would not. At his trial, men were paid to lie about him, as one of them admitted. The men on the jury were so dishonest that they asked the judge whom he wanted them to condemn! After Blessed Richard was sentenced to death, his wife and baby were brought into court. “Do not imitate your husband,” the poor woman was told. In disgust, she bravely snapped, “If you want more blood, you can take my life with my husband’s. If you give more money to your witnesses, they will surely find something to say against me, too!”
As Blessed Richard was being cruelly martyred, he cried out in terrible agony: “My God, what is this?” One of the officials mockingly answered: “An execution for Her Majesty, the Queen.” “Jesus, have mercy on me!” exclaimed the martyr, and then he was beheaded. The beautiful religious poems Bl. Richard wrote in prison are still in existence. In them, he begged his countrymen of Wales to be loyal to the Catholic Faith.
If today I have to suffer a little, I will not complain.
10/24/08
St. Raphael the Archangel
St. Raphael the Archangel - Patron of Doctors, Nurses, Lovers, and Travelers - October 24th
The Holy Bible tells us that a very kind and devout man named Tobias had become blind. But in his suffering, he remained as faithful to God as ever. One day, desiring to collect some money that a man owed him, he sent his son, young Tobias, off on a long trip to this man’s country. As the youth was about to leave, a handsome young man who called himself Azarias offered to go with him as his guide. Young Tobias soon found out what a wonderful companion he had! Azarias saved him from a monstrous fish and brought him to the home of a relative whose daughter, Sara, Tobias married on the advice of Azarias.
Sara was a holy young woman who had begged God to give her a good husband. Her prayer, too, was answered when Tobias asked her to be his wife. In the meantime, Azarias went on to collect the money owed to Tobias. When he got back, he and the young couple set off for home. Young Tobias and Azarias went on ahead toward the end of the trip. What joy there was when young Tobias’ worried parents saw him arriving! Next, Azarias told his friend to take the gall of the fish and apply it to his father’s eyes. He did do, and Tobias regained his sight! Meanwhile, Sara, the rich and beautiful bride of young Tobias, arrived with all the servants, cattle, camels, and money which was her dowry. For a whole week, everyone celebrated the wonderful happiness that had come to Tobias and his family.
The good man and his son were so grateful to the young man, Azarias, that they did not know how they would ever repay him. When they called him aside to ask him to accept half of all they owned, he revealed a tremendous secret to them: “I am the Angel Raphael,” he declared, “one of the seven who stand before the Lord!” Tobias and his son were filled with fear and fell to the ground. “Peace be to you, and fear not,” said the Archangel. “For when I was with you, I was there by the will of God.” He told them that God was pleased with Tobias because he had prayed, done penance and helped so many people. So He had sent St. Raphael to bring him many blessings. “It is time that I return to God,” Raphael concluded, and with that he was taken from their sight and they could see him not more.
To make sure that our prayers are heard by God, we should accompany them, as Tobias did, with little sacrifices and acts of charity toward our neighbor.
10/23/08
St. Allucio
St. Allucio – October 23rd
This Italian Saint was a simple shepherd and herdsman who took great interest in an almshouse nearby. An almshouse was a “poor house” for those who could not support themselves. Allucio’s kind heart was moved to pity for these poor people and he did everything he could to help them. This was his way of showing his love for God.
Although he was just a shepherd, the Saint was put in charge of the almshouse, because the officials knew how much good he would do there. And they were not disappointed either. St. Allucio made so many improvements that it almost seemed a new place entirely. Next, the Saint noticed how badly some shelters were needed at places where people had to cross rivers, and at mountain passes. He saw to it that many were built and he put generous young men to run them for the benefit of all travelers. Later these good men were called Brothers of St. Allucio.
It seemed as if the Saint felt he could never do enough to make the world a better place to live in. He took care of still more projects such as building a bridge over a big river. He made peace, too, between two cities about to fight each other.
St. Allucio might have tended to his sheep and let other people face their own problems. But those who love God never do that. He made other peoples’ troubles his own and in this way, he grew very dear to God.
I will be ready when I see a need. I will help, even at the cost of sacrifice.
This Italian Saint was a simple shepherd and herdsman who took great interest in an almshouse nearby. An almshouse was a “poor house” for those who could not support themselves. Allucio’s kind heart was moved to pity for these poor people and he did everything he could to help them. This was his way of showing his love for God.
Although he was just a shepherd, the Saint was put in charge of the almshouse, because the officials knew how much good he would do there. And they were not disappointed either. St. Allucio made so many improvements that it almost seemed a new place entirely. Next, the Saint noticed how badly some shelters were needed at places where people had to cross rivers, and at mountain passes. He saw to it that many were built and he put generous young men to run them for the benefit of all travelers. Later these good men were called Brothers of St. Allucio.
It seemed as if the Saint felt he could never do enough to make the world a better place to live in. He took care of still more projects such as building a bridge over a big river. He made peace, too, between two cities about to fight each other.
St. Allucio might have tended to his sheep and let other people face their own problems. But those who love God never do that. He made other peoples’ troubles his own and in this way, he grew very dear to God.
I will be ready when I see a need. I will help, even at the cost of sacrifice.
10/22/08
St. Philip of Thrace
St. Philip of Thrace – October 22nd
Philip was a bishop in the time of the Emperor Diocletian’s persecution of Christians. When the orders against Christians were first published in his city, many who loved him begged him to leave. But he would not even consider it. The door of his Church was sealed up first of all, so he held services outdoors in front of it. When the soldiers came to take the sacred vessels and the Holy Scriptures, he encouraged his Christian people to stand up bravely for the Faith, and nothing could frighten him away.
As the holy bishop was being taken to prison, some people in the watching mob pushed him down. Others admired the way he quietly picked himself up, smiling all the while. As he and his deacon Hermes entered the prison, their faces shone with joy. They even sang a hymn of thanksgiving!
To every command to offer sacrifice to the gods, Philip answered, “I am a Christian and cannot do that. You can punish our refusal, but you cannot make us do what you command.” The officer threatened to torture him, yet the Bishop said: “You may torment me, but you cannot conquer me. No power can make me sacrifice to the gods.”
And the rulers discovered he meant just what he said. No matter what they did to Saints Philip and Hermes, they would not give up the Faith. On the contrary, as they were being led out to execution, Hermes joyfully said to his Bishop: “Let us hurry to go to the Lord!”
In imitation of these heroic martyrs, I will offer up little sacrifices for love of Our Lord.
Philip was a bishop in the time of the Emperor Diocletian’s persecution of Christians. When the orders against Christians were first published in his city, many who loved him begged him to leave. But he would not even consider it. The door of his Church was sealed up first of all, so he held services outdoors in front of it. When the soldiers came to take the sacred vessels and the Holy Scriptures, he encouraged his Christian people to stand up bravely for the Faith, and nothing could frighten him away.
As the holy bishop was being taken to prison, some people in the watching mob pushed him down. Others admired the way he quietly picked himself up, smiling all the while. As he and his deacon Hermes entered the prison, their faces shone with joy. They even sang a hymn of thanksgiving!
To every command to offer sacrifice to the gods, Philip answered, “I am a Christian and cannot do that. You can punish our refusal, but you cannot make us do what you command.” The officer threatened to torture him, yet the Bishop said: “You may torment me, but you cannot conquer me. No power can make me sacrifice to the gods.”
And the rulers discovered he meant just what he said. No matter what they did to Saints Philip and Hermes, they would not give up the Faith. On the contrary, as they were being led out to execution, Hermes joyfully said to his Bishop: “Let us hurry to go to the Lord!”
In imitation of these heroic martyrs, I will offer up little sacrifices for love of Our Lord.
10/21/08
St. Hilarion
St. Hilarion – October 21st
Hilarion was a pagan lad when he left his home in Palestine to go to school in Egypt. There he learned about the Christian Faith, and soon he was baptized. Hilarion was only about fifteen at this time, but before long, he was off on a visit to the famous St. Anthony in the desert. He wanted to be alone to serve Jesus, whom he had just come to love. Hilarion stayed two months with St. Anthony, but it was not quiet enough there for him. Too many people came to St. Anthony for help, in his opinion. So he left and after giving everything he had to the poor, he went into the wilderness to live as a hermit.
Hilarion had to battle many temptations. At times it seemed to him as if none of his prayers were heard at all. Yet he did not let these temptations stop him from praying even harder.
After twenty years in the desert, the holy man worked his first miracle and soon many people began coming to his hut to beg his help. Many men asked him to let them stay with him to learn how to pray and do penance. In his great love of God and souls, the Saint did not refuse. But finally, when he was sixty-five, he began going from one country to another trying to find peace and quiet. The fame of his miracles of mercy always brought crowds of visitors, however. It was not until a few years before he died at eighty that this great lover of God could be alone with Him.
When I say my prayers I will avoid every willful distraction.
10/20/08
St. John Kanti
St. John Kanti – October 20th
This Polish Saint was the son of good country-folk. Seeing how intelligent their son was, they sent him to the University of Cracow. He did well in his studies and became a priest, a teacher, and a preacher. John was also well-known for his great love of the poor. Once he was eating in the University dinning hall when he happened to see a beggar passing by the window. Immediately he jumped up and brought the man his meal!
There were some people who became very jealous of St. John’s success as a teacher and preacher. They finally managed to have him sent to a parish as the pastor. Here, he put his whole heart into the new life, but at first things did not go well at all. The people did not particularly care for John, and John himself was rather afraid of the responsibility. He did not give up, however, and his efforts brought results. By the time he was called back to the University, the people of his parish loved him dearly. They went part of the way with him and were so sad to see him go that he had to tell them: “This sadness does not please God. It I have done any good for you in all these years, sing a song of joy!”
Back in Cracow, St. John taught the Holy Bible and again became a very popular teacher. He was invited to the homes of rich nobles, but still he gave everything he had to the poor and dressed very poorly himself. Once he wore such an old cassock to a banquet that the servants refused to let him in. St. John went home and changed into a new one. During the dinner, someone spilled a dish of food on the new cassock! “Never mind,” said the Saint with good humor, “my cassock deserves some food, anyway, because without it, I wouldn’t have been here at all!”
St. John lived to be eight-three, and again and again during all those years he cleaned out everything he owned to help the poor. When people burst into tears on hearing that he was dying, he said, “Don’t worry about this prison which is decaying! Think of the soul that is going to leave it.”
From this saint I want to learn to do my duties for God alone, without expecting any reward here on earth.
This Polish Saint was the son of good country-folk. Seeing how intelligent their son was, they sent him to the University of Cracow. He did well in his studies and became a priest, a teacher, and a preacher. John was also well-known for his great love of the poor. Once he was eating in the University dinning hall when he happened to see a beggar passing by the window. Immediately he jumped up and brought the man his meal!
There were some people who became very jealous of St. John’s success as a teacher and preacher. They finally managed to have him sent to a parish as the pastor. Here, he put his whole heart into the new life, but at first things did not go well at all. The people did not particularly care for John, and John himself was rather afraid of the responsibility. He did not give up, however, and his efforts brought results. By the time he was called back to the University, the people of his parish loved him dearly. They went part of the way with him and were so sad to see him go that he had to tell them: “This sadness does not please God. It I have done any good for you in all these years, sing a song of joy!”
Back in Cracow, St. John taught the Holy Bible and again became a very popular teacher. He was invited to the homes of rich nobles, but still he gave everything he had to the poor and dressed very poorly himself. Once he wore such an old cassock to a banquet that the servants refused to let him in. St. John went home and changed into a new one. During the dinner, someone spilled a dish of food on the new cassock! “Never mind,” said the Saint with good humor, “my cassock deserves some food, anyway, because without it, I wouldn’t have been here at all!”
St. John lived to be eight-three, and again and again during all those years he cleaned out everything he owned to help the poor. When people burst into tears on hearing that he was dying, he said, “Don’t worry about this prison which is decaying! Think of the soul that is going to leave it.”
From this saint I want to learn to do my duties for God alone, without expecting any reward here on earth.
10/19/08
Sts. Varus and Cleopatra
Sts. Varus and Cleopatra – October 19th
Varus was an Egyptian soldier who brought food to seven holy monks who had been put in prison for their Faith. When one of them died, the fearless Christian soldier took his place in prison. St. Varus was cruelly tortured because he would not give up his belief in Christ, and finally he died a martyr.
A saintly Christian woman named Cleopatra secretly obtained the body of the soldier-martyr and hid it in a bundle of wool. In this manner she brought it out of Egypt and back to her home in Palestine. There many people came to visit the Saint’s tomb. Cleopatra had a son named John, and when he was about to go into the army, she decided to have a big church built to honor the relics of St. Varus. At the same time, she asked him to pray for her son.
When the beautiful church was ready, she and John brought the martyr’s remains to the new shrine. But that very night, John became sick and died! Poor mother! She had her dead son carried into the church and laid in front of the altar, sobbing as though her heart would break. She stayed there, begging God to bring her son back to life, until the next night. She even spoke angry words to St. Varus, whom she had honored so much before. At last, she was so tired out by her weeping that she fell fast asleep. And in a dream she saw St. Varus leading John by the hand. They both looked so gloriously happy that St. Cleopatra could not say a word.
“Have I forgotten all the love you showed me?” St. Varus said to her. “You asked for health and success for your son, and look! He is safe forevermore!” The good woman felt contented now. Then she was told to lay John’s body there in the church and to wait awhile until they came for her. She spent seven years in prayer and penance, until at last God called her to share the glory of St. Varus and her son.
Let us pray to these saints to make us brave and patient amid the troubles of life.
Varus was an Egyptian soldier who brought food to seven holy monks who had been put in prison for their Faith. When one of them died, the fearless Christian soldier took his place in prison. St. Varus was cruelly tortured because he would not give up his belief in Christ, and finally he died a martyr.
A saintly Christian woman named Cleopatra secretly obtained the body of the soldier-martyr and hid it in a bundle of wool. In this manner she brought it out of Egypt and back to her home in Palestine. There many people came to visit the Saint’s tomb. Cleopatra had a son named John, and when he was about to go into the army, she decided to have a big church built to honor the relics of St. Varus. At the same time, she asked him to pray for her son.
When the beautiful church was ready, she and John brought the martyr’s remains to the new shrine. But that very night, John became sick and died! Poor mother! She had her dead son carried into the church and laid in front of the altar, sobbing as though her heart would break. She stayed there, begging God to bring her son back to life, until the next night. She even spoke angry words to St. Varus, whom she had honored so much before. At last, she was so tired out by her weeping that she fell fast asleep. And in a dream she saw St. Varus leading John by the hand. They both looked so gloriously happy that St. Cleopatra could not say a word.
“Have I forgotten all the love you showed me?” St. Varus said to her. “You asked for health and success for your son, and look! He is safe forevermore!” The good woman felt contented now. Then she was told to lay John’s body there in the church and to wait awhile until they came for her. She spent seven years in prayer and penance, until at last God called her to share the glory of St. Varus and her son.
Let us pray to these saints to make us brave and patient amid the troubles of life.
10/18/08
St. Luke the Evangelist
St. Luke the Evangelist - Patron of Painters, Glass-Workers, and Doctors - October 18th
Luke was a pagan doctor, a good kind man who came to know Our Lord from the great Apostle Paul. After he had become a Christian, he went everywhere with St. Paul and was a great help to him in spreading the Faith. In the Bible this holy convert is called: “Luke, the beloved physician.”
St. Luke himself is the author of two books in the Bible: “The Holy Gospel according to St. Luke,” and “The Acts of the Apostle.” Although he did not know Jesus while Our Lord was on this earth, he wanted to write about Him for other new converts like himself. So he talked to those who had known Jesus and he wrote down all that they had seen Our Lord do and heard Him say. It is believed that St. Luke learned from the Blessed Virgin Mary herself all about the Angel Gabriel’s appearance to her, the birth of Jesus in Bethlehem, the flight of the Holy Family into Egypt, and many other facts we read in his Gospel.
Luke also wrote the story of how the Apostles began to teach the message of Jesus after Our Lord went back to Heaven. It is in his book, “The Acts of the Apostles,” that we learn how the Church began to grow and spread.
St. Luke is the patron saint of doctors and of painters, too, because it is believed that he painted a beautiful picture of our Blessed Mother.
In his Gospel St. Luke wrote especially of the mercy of God for repentant sinners. Today I will read in it the parable of the Lost Sheep.
Luke was a pagan doctor, a good kind man who came to know Our Lord from the great Apostle Paul. After he had become a Christian, he went everywhere with St. Paul and was a great help to him in spreading the Faith. In the Bible this holy convert is called: “Luke, the beloved physician.”
St. Luke himself is the author of two books in the Bible: “The Holy Gospel according to St. Luke,” and “The Acts of the Apostle.” Although he did not know Jesus while Our Lord was on this earth, he wanted to write about Him for other new converts like himself. So he talked to those who had known Jesus and he wrote down all that they had seen Our Lord do and heard Him say. It is believed that St. Luke learned from the Blessed Virgin Mary herself all about the Angel Gabriel’s appearance to her, the birth of Jesus in Bethlehem, the flight of the Holy Family into Egypt, and many other facts we read in his Gospel.
Luke also wrote the story of how the Apostles began to teach the message of Jesus after Our Lord went back to Heaven. It is in his book, “The Acts of the Apostles,” that we learn how the Church began to grow and spread.
St. Luke is the patron saint of doctors and of painters, too, because it is believed that he painted a beautiful picture of our Blessed Mother.
In his Gospel St. Luke wrote especially of the mercy of God for repentant sinners. Today I will read in it the parable of the Lost Sheep.
10/17/08
St. Margaret Mary Alacoque
St. Margaret Mary Alacoque – October 17th
Margaret Mary is the famous French nun to whom Our Lord showed His Sacred Heart. As a child, she had a horror of being naughty and she was a healthy, happy little girl who loved the nuns at school. But when she was eleven, she became very sick and it was four years before she was well again. Her father had died, and an aunt had moved into their home. This aunt and her husband made Margaret Mary and her beloved mother suffer very much. Day after day, the young teenager would hide herself in the garden to cry and pray. What hurt her most was to see her mother being hurt.
Yet Margaret Mary grew to love good times and a few years later, she was considering marriage. Her mother wanted her to marry and so did her relatives, especially when she brought beggar children into the garden to try to teach them!
But Christ wanted her for His own. Margaret Mary hesitated a while, neither marrying nor entering the Convent, but at last she generously gave herself to Jesus as His bride.
In the Visitation Convent she entered, she was of good example to everyone because of her charity and humility. Often she made others impatient since she was rather slow and clumsy, but she was dear to Jesus, and He began to appear to Sister Margaret Mary to show her how much He loves us all. Jesus wanted her to spread devotion to His Sacred Heart. It was a very hard thing to do, because many people thought the good Sister really had not seen Our Lord at all. Some were very angry with her for trying to spread the new devotion, and all this brought great suffering to the Saint. Yet she still did her best to carry out Our Lord’s wish, and today, this wonderful devotion to the Sacred Heart is practiced all over the world.
Our Lord made great promises to St. Margaret Mary for those who are devoted to His Most Sacred Heart. Some of these promises are: “I will comfort them in all their afflictions. I will establish peace in their homes. I will bestow abundant blessings on all their undertakings. I will bless every place where a picture of My Heart shall be exposed and honored.” The greatest promise Our Lord made is this: “My Divine Heart shall be the safe refuge in the last moment to all those who receive Holy Communion on the First Friday for nine months in a row.” I want to make sure of making the Nine First Fridays.
10/16/08
St. Gerard Majella
St. Gerard Majella - Patron of Mothers - October 16th
Gerard was born in a little Italian town. Even as a boy, he loved to visit Our Lord in the Blessed Sacrament. “He would stop in church,” said his mother, “and then forget to come home for dinner.” When Gerard’s father died, the boy was taken out of school and sent to learn to be a tailor. His master was good to him, but the helper in the shop treated him roughly. Later Gerard started out in business for himself. One third of the money he earned he gave to his mother. Another third he gave away to poor people, and the rest he gave as offerings to have Masses said for the poor souls in Purgatory.
St. Gerard had once tried to enter the Capuchin Order, but they thought he looked too weak. Now he asked the Redemptorists to accept him as a brother. They did, but not too eagerly at all. At first they thought he would be useless, but soon they found him to be very humble and eager to do what he was told. While he was a novice, one priest heard him say, as he knelt in front of the altar: “Lord, let me go, I beg You. I have work that I must do!”
God gave St. Gerard marvelous and extraordinary gifts. He could read minds, appear to be in two places at once, cure people, tell what was going on someplace far away, and make animals and nature obey him. Yet Gerard had his sufferings, too. Once, a wicked woman accused the holy brother of committing a mortal sin, and since he did not excuse himself, he was punished by his Superior. He was sent away from everyone else and forbidden to receive Holy Communion. But all the Saint said was: “There is God in Heaven and He will provide.” Later, the evil woman repented and freely confessed that she had lied. Then everyone knew that Gerard was innocent and had said nothing because of his deep humility.
God alone sees my thoughts, word and deeds. I will never worry about what the others say about me. I will remember instead that God will be my Judge one day, and He will reward me if I was good, or punish me if I was bad.
Link to an audio story of St. Gerard Majella by Regina Martyrum Productions:
10/15/08
St. Teresa of Avila
St. Teresa of Avila – October 15th
As a little girl in her parents’ rich home in Spain, Teresa and her brother Rodrigo loved to read the lives of the saints and martyrs. It seemed to them that the martyrs got to Heaven an easy way, so the two of them set out secretly to go to the land of the Moors. As they walked along, they prayed that they might die for Christ. But they had not gotten far when they met an uncle, who at once took them back to their worrying mother! Next the two little ones decided to be hermits in their garden, but they never could get enough stones together to build their huts!
St. Teresa herself wrote down these amusing stories of her childhood. The fact is that when she grew to be a teenager, however, she read so many novels and foolish romances that she lost much of her love for prayer, and she began to think more of dressing up to look pretty. But after she recovered from a bad illness, Teresa read a book about the great St. Jerome, and then and there, she made up her mind to become a Bride of Christ.
As a nun, St. Teresa often found it hard to pray and besides that, she was quite sick for some time. In those days many visitors used to come to the convent to talk with the nuns; and this practice, too, made it difficult for the Sisters to keep closely united to God. Teresa, like many others nuns, wasted much time this way. But one day, in front of a picture of Jesus, she felt great sorrow that she did not love God more. She started then to live for Him alone, no matter what sacrifice had to be made. In return for her love, Our Lord gave St. Teresa the privilege of hearing Him talk to her. She learned to pray in a marvelous way, too, and she wrote down in obedience all that she had experienced.
St. Teresa of Avila is very famous for having opened new Carmelite convents in which no worldly conversations with visitors disturbed their prayer. Her nuns made many sacrifices for Jesus and worked and prayed with great love. She herself gave them the example, not only by the way she prayed, but by the way she worked in spinning, cleaning, and sweeping the house.
Always St. Teresa placed all her hopes in God. Once in opening a new Convent, she had just a few coins to her name. “Teresa and this money are nothing,” she said. “But God, Teresa and this money are enough.” With a man-like courage, a heart full of love of God, and a wonderful sense of humor, this marvelous nun performed a great service for Christ’s Church.
From the life of this Saint, as well as of many other saints, we can see how the reading of books can change a person. From now on I resolve to choose good books as gifts for my family and friends.
10/14/08
St. Callistus
St. Callistus – October 14th
This great Pope and martyr was once a young slave in Rome, who got into serious trouble. His master, a Christian, had put him in charge of a bank, and somehow or other, Callistus lost the money deposited with him by other Christians. In fear, he ran away, escaping from Rome to Porto. But there he was caught, after jumping into the sea to try to get away. His sentence was a terrible one: he was chained and put to endless hard labor in a mill.
From this punishment Callistus was released, only because his creditors hoped he could get some of their money back. But once again he was arrested, this time for having gotten into a fight. He was sent to the mines of Sardinia. When the Emperor freed all the Christians who had been condemned to those mines, Callistus was freed, too, and from that time on things began to go better for the poor young man.
Pope St. Zephrinus came to know and trust the freed slave, and he placed him in charge of the public Christian cemetery. This cemetery is now named after St. Callistus himself and many popes were buried in it. Callistus proved himself worthy of the Pope’s confidence in him, and St. Zephrinus not only ordained him, but also made him his friend and advisor.
Later on, St. Callistus himself became pope. Some people complained because he showed too much mercy to sinners, but the holy Pope ruled that even murderers could be admitted to communion after they had done penance for their sin. This great Pope always defended the true doctrine of Jesus and ended his life with a glorious martyrdom.
Even after many failures, one can succeed in the end. What counts is never to quit, but always to try again.
This great Pope and martyr was once a young slave in Rome, who got into serious trouble. His master, a Christian, had put him in charge of a bank, and somehow or other, Callistus lost the money deposited with him by other Christians. In fear, he ran away, escaping from Rome to Porto. But there he was caught, after jumping into the sea to try to get away. His sentence was a terrible one: he was chained and put to endless hard labor in a mill.
From this punishment Callistus was released, only because his creditors hoped he could get some of their money back. But once again he was arrested, this time for having gotten into a fight. He was sent to the mines of Sardinia. When the Emperor freed all the Christians who had been condemned to those mines, Callistus was freed, too, and from that time on things began to go better for the poor young man.
Pope St. Zephrinus came to know and trust the freed slave, and he placed him in charge of the public Christian cemetery. This cemetery is now named after St. Callistus himself and many popes were buried in it. Callistus proved himself worthy of the Pope’s confidence in him, and St. Zephrinus not only ordained him, but also made him his friend and advisor.
Later on, St. Callistus himself became pope. Some people complained because he showed too much mercy to sinners, but the holy Pope ruled that even murderers could be admitted to communion after they had done penance for their sin. This great Pope always defended the true doctrine of Jesus and ended his life with a glorious martyrdom.
Even after many failures, one can succeed in the end. What counts is never to quit, but always to try again.
10/13/08
St. Edward
St. Edward – October 13th
King St. Edward was one of the best loved of all the English Kings. Because of enemies in his own country, he had to live in Normandy from the age of ten until his fortieth year. However, when he came back to rule, all the people welcomed him with great joy.
St. Edward was a tall, well-built man, but he was never too healthy. Still he was able to rule his country well and keep peace most of the time because he trusted in God and held firm when necessary. He was a gentle, kind man who never spoke strongly, even to the meanest of persons. To poor people and foreigners, he showed special charity, and he helped monks in every way he could. It was his justice to everyone and his love for God’s Church that made St. Edward so popular with the English people. They would cheer him as he rode out hunting, which was his favorite sport. Yet they all knew that even if he was out for days at a time, he would always get to Mass every morning.
Although he was a King with great power, St. Edward showed his honesty by the way he kept his word-to God and to men. While he was still living in Normandy, he had made a promise to God that if his family would see better times, he would go on a pilgrimage to St. Peter’s tomb in Rome. After he was made King, he wanted to keep his vow. But the nobles knew that there would be no one to keep the peace among the war-like peoples in the land. So, although they admired his devotion, they did not want him to go. The whole matter was brought to the Pope, St. Leo IX, who decided that the King could stay home but was to give to the poor the money he would have spent on the trip. He also was to build or repair a monastery in honor of St. Peter. Obediently, St. Edward carried out the Pope’s decision and he was buried in the marvelous abbey he rebuilt.
For love of charity and peace, I will never say an unkind word to anyone. Like this holy king, I, too, will speak kindly with everyone.
King St. Edward was one of the best loved of all the English Kings. Because of enemies in his own country, he had to live in Normandy from the age of ten until his fortieth year. However, when he came back to rule, all the people welcomed him with great joy.
St. Edward was a tall, well-built man, but he was never too healthy. Still he was able to rule his country well and keep peace most of the time because he trusted in God and held firm when necessary. He was a gentle, kind man who never spoke strongly, even to the meanest of persons. To poor people and foreigners, he showed special charity, and he helped monks in every way he could. It was his justice to everyone and his love for God’s Church that made St. Edward so popular with the English people. They would cheer him as he rode out hunting, which was his favorite sport. Yet they all knew that even if he was out for days at a time, he would always get to Mass every morning.
Although he was a King with great power, St. Edward showed his honesty by the way he kept his word-to God and to men. While he was still living in Normandy, he had made a promise to God that if his family would see better times, he would go on a pilgrimage to St. Peter’s tomb in Rome. After he was made King, he wanted to keep his vow. But the nobles knew that there would be no one to keep the peace among the war-like peoples in the land. So, although they admired his devotion, they did not want him to go. The whole matter was brought to the Pope, St. Leo IX, who decided that the King could stay home but was to give to the poor the money he would have spent on the trip. He also was to build or repair a monastery in honor of St. Peter. Obediently, St. Edward carried out the Pope’s decision and he was buried in the marvelous abbey he rebuilt.
For love of charity and peace, I will never say an unkind word to anyone. Like this holy king, I, too, will speak kindly with everyone.
10/12/08
Sts. Felix and Cyprian
Sts. Felix and Cyprian – October 12th
Felix and Cyprian were African bishops who suffered with over 4,900 martyrs in the terrible persecution by the Vandals. Huneric, the Vandal king, drove these Christians into exile in the Libyan desert. They were treated with great cruelty by the Moors. Some were stoned; others were dragged over stony ground, some forced to run by spear tips, and some torn apart.
A holy Bishop named Victor used to try to help the poor Christians who had been shut up in a horrible prison, packed in without air or light. He wrote the story of their courage and their sufferings, and he says that when they were ordered into exile in the terrible desert, they came out that prison singing hymns. Other Christians burst into tears at the sight and even women and children went with them to exile and death. The Bishop St. Felix was so old and so crippled that someone said to the Vandal King: “You might just as well leave him here to die.” But King Huneric cruelly answered, “If he cannot ride a horse, he can be dragged by oxen!” In the end, they decided to tie the brave old bishop to a donkey and he was carried off to die in the desert.
The bishop St. Cyprian risked his own life to take care of as many prisoners as he could. He spent every minute he could and every ounce of strength he had, plus everything he owned, to assist them. At last, he, too, was arrested and sent into exile. There he also died a martyr from the cruel treatment given to all these strong defenders of the Catholic Faith.
The Martyrs gave up all they had, even life itself, to keep their Faith in God. And I? Do my words and deeds reflect my Faith, even when little difficulties come up?
Felix and Cyprian were African bishops who suffered with over 4,900 martyrs in the terrible persecution by the Vandals. Huneric, the Vandal king, drove these Christians into exile in the Libyan desert. They were treated with great cruelty by the Moors. Some were stoned; others were dragged over stony ground, some forced to run by spear tips, and some torn apart.
A holy Bishop named Victor used to try to help the poor Christians who had been shut up in a horrible prison, packed in without air or light. He wrote the story of their courage and their sufferings, and he says that when they were ordered into exile in the terrible desert, they came out that prison singing hymns. Other Christians burst into tears at the sight and even women and children went with them to exile and death. The Bishop St. Felix was so old and so crippled that someone said to the Vandal King: “You might just as well leave him here to die.” But King Huneric cruelly answered, “If he cannot ride a horse, he can be dragged by oxen!” In the end, they decided to tie the brave old bishop to a donkey and he was carried off to die in the desert.
The bishop St. Cyprian risked his own life to take care of as many prisoners as he could. He spent every minute he could and every ounce of strength he had, plus everything he owned, to assist them. At last, he, too, was arrested and sent into exile. There he also died a martyr from the cruel treatment given to all these strong defenders of the Catholic Faith.
The Martyrs gave up all they had, even life itself, to keep their Faith in God. And I? Do my words and deeds reflect my Faith, even when little difficulties come up?
10/11/08
St. Kenneth
St. Kenneth – October 11th
This saint, who is sometimes called St. Canice or Kenny, was an Irishman, but he is famous in both Ireland and Scotland. His father was a bard, that is, a professional singer of ballads and stories in song. As a young man, Kenneth went to Wales to study for the priesthood with St. Cadoc as his teacher. After he became a priest, he went to visit Rome, and then returned to Ireland to study at the school of St. Finnian. He became good friends with three other Irish Saints-Kieran, Comgall and Columba.
After preaching through Ireland, St. Kenneth went with St. Columba to Scotland on a mission to the pagan King Brude. When this King angrily seized his sword to strike the two missionaries, St. Kenneth made the sign of the cross, and a miracle took place! The King’s hand was suddenly paralyzed, and the Saints were saved! St. Kenneth and St. Columba were always very close friends. Once Columba was sailing with some companions and Kenneth was far away in his monastery in Ireland. Suddenly he learned from God that Columba was in great danger at sea. He jumped up from the dinner table and ran to church to pray for his beloved friend. Out at sea, Columba cried to his frightened companions: “Don’t be afraid! God will listen to Kenneth. Right now he’s running to church with only one shoe on to pray for us!” And as he had said, they were saved!
St. Kenneth founded many monasteries in Ireland and converted many pagans in Scotland. He became famous for his zealous preaching of the Gospel and even more, for the perfect way in which he himself practiced the teachings of Jesus.
I will read a page of the Holy Gospel every day.
This saint, who is sometimes called St. Canice or Kenny, was an Irishman, but he is famous in both Ireland and Scotland. His father was a bard, that is, a professional singer of ballads and stories in song. As a young man, Kenneth went to Wales to study for the priesthood with St. Cadoc as his teacher. After he became a priest, he went to visit Rome, and then returned to Ireland to study at the school of St. Finnian. He became good friends with three other Irish Saints-Kieran, Comgall and Columba.
After preaching through Ireland, St. Kenneth went with St. Columba to Scotland on a mission to the pagan King Brude. When this King angrily seized his sword to strike the two missionaries, St. Kenneth made the sign of the cross, and a miracle took place! The King’s hand was suddenly paralyzed, and the Saints were saved! St. Kenneth and St. Columba were always very close friends. Once Columba was sailing with some companions and Kenneth was far away in his monastery in Ireland. Suddenly he learned from God that Columba was in great danger at sea. He jumped up from the dinner table and ran to church to pray for his beloved friend. Out at sea, Columba cried to his frightened companions: “Don’t be afraid! God will listen to Kenneth. Right now he’s running to church with only one shoe on to pray for us!” And as he had said, they were saved!
St. Kenneth founded many monasteries in Ireland and converted many pagans in Scotland. He became famous for his zealous preaching of the Gospel and even more, for the perfect way in which he himself practiced the teachings of Jesus.
I will read a page of the Holy Gospel every day.
10/10/08
St. Francis Borgia
St. Francis Borgia - Patron of Portugal - October 10th
Francis was a young nobleman at the court of the King of Spain. He became a Duke when he was only thirty-three and lived a happy, peaceful life with his wife Eleanor and their eight children. But unlike so many other powerful nobles, Francis was a perfect Christian gentleman, a true man of God, and his great joy was to receive Holy Communion often.
This happy life ended when his beloved wife died. Just a few years later, Francis did something that astonished all the nobles of Spain: he gave up his dukedom to his son Charles and became a Jesuit priest. So many people came to his first Mass that they had to set up an altar out doors. But his superior tested him by treating him in exactly the opposite way he had been used to all his forty-one years of life. He who had once had been a duke had to help the cook, carrying wood for the fire and sweeping the kitchen. When he served the food to the priests and brothers, he had to kneel down in front of them all and beg them to forgive him for being so clumsy! Still he never once complained or grumbled. The only time he became angry was when anyone treated him with respect, as if he were still a duke.
Once a doctor who had to take care of a painful wound Francis had gotten said to him: “I am afraid, my lord, that I have to hurt your grace.” The Saint answered that he would not hurt him more than he was right then by calling him “my lord” and “your grace.”
It was not too long before the humble priest accomplished wonderful works for God’s glory as he preached everywhere and advised many important people. He spread the Society of Jesus all over Spain and in Portugal. When he was made Superior General of the Jesuits, he sent missionaries all over the world. Under his guidance, the Jesuits grew to be a very great help to the Church in many lands.
Through all such success, St. Francis Borgia remained completely humble.
How did this Spanish nobleman learn such humility, after so long being honored as a great man in the world? By reflecting often on the humiliations of Our Lord and strongly willing to imitate Him.
10/9/08
St. Louis Bertrand
St. Louis Bertrand – October 9th
Louis was born in Valencia, Spain, in a family of nine children. His good parents brought him up well, and he became a Dominican priest. He was very severe as the Master of the Novices, but even though he did not have a good sense of humor, he taught the novices to give themselves completely to God. When first he began to preach, it did not seem as though he would be very successful, but his deep love for souls brought great results.
At the age of thirty-six, St. Louis left for South America. He stayed in the New World only about six years, but in that short time, this great apostle baptized thousands of persons. Although he knew only Spanish, God gave him the gift of tongues, so that when he spoke, all the different tribes of Indians understood him. Yet his apostolate was not without dangers. A tribe called the Caribs of the Leeward Islands even tried to poison the Saint when he visited them to preach the Gospel of Our Lord.
Once he was called back to Spain, St. Louis trained other preachers, teaching them to prepare themselves by fervent prayer, first of all. The last two years of his life were full of painful suffering, but still he kept preaching. Finally he was carried from the pulpit to his bed, and he never left it again, for he died eighteen months later.
Success in life lies in generosity and prayer. Today I will try to overcome my selfishness and say my prayers well.
Louis was born in Valencia, Spain, in a family of nine children. His good parents brought him up well, and he became a Dominican priest. He was very severe as the Master of the Novices, but even though he did not have a good sense of humor, he taught the novices to give themselves completely to God. When first he began to preach, it did not seem as though he would be very successful, but his deep love for souls brought great results.
At the age of thirty-six, St. Louis left for South America. He stayed in the New World only about six years, but in that short time, this great apostle baptized thousands of persons. Although he knew only Spanish, God gave him the gift of tongues, so that when he spoke, all the different tribes of Indians understood him. Yet his apostolate was not without dangers. A tribe called the Caribs of the Leeward Islands even tried to poison the Saint when he visited them to preach the Gospel of Our Lord.
Once he was called back to Spain, St. Louis trained other preachers, teaching them to prepare themselves by fervent prayer, first of all. The last two years of his life were full of painful suffering, but still he kept preaching. Finally he was carried from the pulpit to his bed, and he never left it again, for he died eighteen months later.
Success in life lies in generosity and prayer. Today I will try to overcome my selfishness and say my prayers well.
10/8/08
St. Bridget of Sweden
St. Bridget of Sweden - Patroness of Sweden - October 8th
From the time she was a child, Bridget was greatly devoted to the Passion of Our Lord. When she was only ten, she seemed to see Jesus on the Cross and to hear Him say, “Look upon Me, My daughter.” “Who had treated you like this?” cried the holy child. “They who despise Me and refuse My love for them,” answered Jesus. From then on, Bridget tried to stop people from offending Our Lord any more.
While she was just a very young teenager, she was married to a young man named Ulf who, like herself, set his whole heart on serving God. They had eight children, of whom one was St. Catherine of Sweden. At the Swedish court of King Magnus and Queen Blanche, Bridget tried to make these rulers lead better lives, but they did not listen to her for the most part. All her life, the Saint had many marvelous visions and received special messages from God. In obedience to them, she visited many rulers and important people in the Church to tell them what God expected of them.
After her good husband died, Bridget put away forever her wealthy clothes and lived as a poor nun. Later, she founded the Order of the Most Holy Savior, who are called Bridgettines. She still kept up her own busy life, however, traveling about doing good everywhere. And through all this activity, Our Lord continued to reveal many secrets to her, all of which she received without the least bit of pride.
Shortly before she died, the Saint went on a pilgrimage to the Holy Land, where Jesus had lived. At the shrines there, she had visions of what Our Lord had said and done in each place. All St. Bridget’s revelations on the sufferings of Jesus were published after her death.
I will learn from St. Bridget the devotion to Jesus Crucified. Like this saint, I, too, for love of Jesus Crucified, will keep my soul pure from every fault, and will go to Confession and Holy Communion often.
10/7/08
The Holy Rosary
The Holy Rosary
– October 7th
It was St. Dominic who urged everyone to say the beautiful prayer of the Holy Rosary. St. Dominic was greatly saddened by the spread of a terrible heresy called Albigensianism, and with the members of his new Order of Preachers, he was trying his best to destroy this dangerous heresy. He begged the Blessed Virgin for help, and it is said that she told him to preach devotion to the Holy Rosary. St. Dominic obeyed, and he was very successful in stopping the heresy with this wonderful, holy weapon.
The Hoy Rosary is a simple devotion which can be practiced by all people-old and young, learned and unlearned. It can be said anywhere at any time. While we say the Our Father, Hail Marys and the Glory Be to the Father, we think about different great moments in the lives of Jesus and Mary. In this way, we grow closer and closer to Our Lord and His Blessed Mother and we learn to imitate their holy lives.
Mary is very pleased when we say the Holy Rosary often and well. She used to say it with St. Bernadette when she appeared to her at Lourdes, and the three little children of Fatima learned from Our Lady how powerful the Holy Rosary is to obtain all graces and save sinners from hell.
Let us acquire the beautiful habit of saying the Rosary every day. “Those who love the Blessed Mother will be saved, and those who love her much will become saints,” a great Saint once said.
10/6/08
St. Bruno
St. Bruno - Patron of those Expelling Demons - October 6th
The founder of the Carthusian Order of monks was at first not a hermit at all, but rather a famous priest-teacher in his own country of France. For eighteen years he taught very learned men and tried his best to lead them closer to God. Then he was made chancellor of the diocese of Rheims.
But Bruno did not take delight in the honors that had come to him. His heart began to long to be alone with Jesus, and soon he gave up his position right when he was about to be chosen Archbishop of the great city of Rheims. St. Hugh of Grenoble gave Bruno and his friends a hidden desert land called Chartreuse, and there they built a church and little huts to live in. This was the beginning of the Carthusian Order. They were very happy there, working their fields, fasting and praying, hidden in God.
After six years, however, the Pope required a great sacrifice of Bruno. He asked him to go to Rome to be his adviser. It broke the Saint’s heart, but he obeyed, and left one of the monks in charge at Chartreuse. He served Pope Urban II well, until finally the Holy Father allowed him to be a monk again, but nearer Rome. So with new disciples, he began all over again in Italy.
As we know by his letters, St. Bruno was always a cheerful, active man, who did not want to see any of his monks sad. He describes their hard life in delightful expressions and urged a close friend to come see for himself.
Just before he died, the holy founder confessed himself out loud in front of his monks, and then professed his Faith for the last time.
God loves those who serve Him with joy. St. Bruno used to say, “Try, and you will see how sweet and rewarding it is to serve God with all the love of your heart.”
10/5/08
St. Flora of Beaulieu
St. Flora of Beaulieu – October 5th
This French saint came from a good family and entered a convent of nuns which was called Beaulieu. She was an innocent, good girl who had resisted all her parents’ plans to marry her. But once she gave herself to God as His spouse, He allowed her to prove her love by overcoming all kinds of trials and temptations.
Sometimes it seemed to Sister Flora that she was leading too comfortable a life. At other times, she was tempted to return home to enjoy herself.
Yet, because she kept trying to love God, she grew dearer and dearer to Him. At last, He blessed her with wonderful visions and the gift of knowing the future. Soon, people realized that Sister Flora was very holy and they came to ask her prayers and her advice. Once Holy Communion was brought to her from a church eight miles away, by an angel. This Saint also received the privilege of suffering the pain of Christ’s cross, which she seemed to feel pressing into her, and making a wound in her side. She joyfully accepted this suffering put of her great love for our Lord.
I will force myself to be brave and full of courage when the devil suggests things to me which would offend our Lord.
This French saint came from a good family and entered a convent of nuns which was called Beaulieu. She was an innocent, good girl who had resisted all her parents’ plans to marry her. But once she gave herself to God as His spouse, He allowed her to prove her love by overcoming all kinds of trials and temptations.
Sometimes it seemed to Sister Flora that she was leading too comfortable a life. At other times, she was tempted to return home to enjoy herself.
Yet, because she kept trying to love God, she grew dearer and dearer to Him. At last, He blessed her with wonderful visions and the gift of knowing the future. Soon, people realized that Sister Flora was very holy and they came to ask her prayers and her advice. Once Holy Communion was brought to her from a church eight miles away, by an angel. This Saint also received the privilege of suffering the pain of Christ’s cross, which she seemed to feel pressing into her, and making a wound in her side. She joyfully accepted this suffering put of her great love for our Lord.
I will force myself to be brave and full of courage when the devil suggests things to me which would offend our Lord.
10/4/08
St. Francis of Assisi
St. Francis of Assisi - Patron of Italy, of Catholic Action, and of Merchants - October 4th
As a young man in his Italian hometown of Assisi, Francis loved parties and good times. He was handsome and rich, so he bought himself the finest clothes and spent money right and left. Francis had no desire to study or to learn his father’s business-he just wanted to have fun. Yet he was never impure or selfish.
After two illnesses and other adventures, Francis realized that he must serve Christ, and so he began by praying much more and making sacrifices to grow strong in spirit. Once he kissed a horrible-looking leper, while giving him money. Often he gave his clothes and money to the poor and served the sick in hospitals. Still he felt he must do more. He fasted and prayed and began to go around in rags, in order to humble himself. It is not hard to imagine how his former rich friends must have looked at him now! His father was so angry that he beat him and locked him up at home. Francis bore all this suffering for love of Christ, and when his father took everything from him in disgust, Francis put all his trust in his Father in Heaven. He said that he was married to “Lady Poverty” and he began to live as a beggar, with no shelter or food but what kind people gave him. Everywhere he went, he urged people to stop sinning and to go back to God. Soon many men began to realize how close to God this poor man was, and they became his disciples. That is how the great Franciscan Order of priests and brothers began.
Even after the Order had been spread all over Italy, Francis insisted that they should not own anything and should all love poverty as he did. The brothers helped the poor and sick and preached everywhere. St. Francis had the power of working miracles and even of making birds and animals obey him! As a reward for his great love, Christ gave him His own wounds in his hands and feet, but the humble Francis tried to hide them.
When he had been sick for a long time and was told he could only live a few more weeks, he exclaimed, “Welcome, Sister Death!” He asked to be laid on the ground and covered with an old habit. Then he urged his Brothers to love God, to love poverty, and to obey the Holy Gospel. “I have done my part,” he said. “May Christ teach you to do yours.”
For love of God, today I will help someone, without asking or accepting a reward of any kind.
10/3/08
St. Theresa of Lisieux
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St. Theresa of Lisieux - Patroness of Foreign Missions and of Aviators
- October 3rd
St. Theresa, often called the Little Flower, was the youngest of the five daughters born to Louis and Zelie Martin. She was a very lively, lovable little girl, whose father called her his “little queen.” Yet she was quite sensitive and touchy, and in the story she wrote of her life, she tells how the Infant Jesus helped her overcome this defect.
It was Theresa’s great desire to enter the Carmelite convent where two of her sisters were already nuns. But since she was only fifteen, permission was not granted. Theresa felt sure that Jesus wanted her to spend her life loving Him alone, so she kept praying and asking to be admitted. She even dared to ask the Pope himself to grant her heart’s desire. And finally she was allowed to enter.
Although she was only fifteen, St. Theresa did not expect to be babied. “Obedience, prayer and sacrifice” were her program. She had a thirst to suffer for the love of God, and she had the spiritual courage of real heroine. “May Jesus make me a martyr of the heart or of the body-or even better, both!” she wrote, and she meant it. Whenever she suffered from the bitter cold in her plain cell or whenever she was humiliated, she would offer her pain to her beloved Jesus and hide it under a smile. She called herself Jesus’ little ball, and told Him to do with her whatever He pleased.
St. Theresa was very humble, and she called her great confidence in God her “little way” to sanctity. She always had a burning desire to become a saint and wanted to find a “short cut,” an “elevator” to take her quickly to sanctity. So she looked in the Holy Bible, and found the words, “Whoever is a little one, let him come to me.” When she lay dying, she could say: “I have never given the good God anything but love, and it is with love that He will repay. After my death, I will let fall a shower of roses. I will spend my Heaven doing good upon earth.”
St. Theresa taught us her LITTLE WAY. Yes, it is a small and yet a great thing to offer Jesus the flowers of our little sacrifices moment by moment.
10/2/08
The Holy Guardian Angels
The Holy Guardian Angels – October 2nd
A feast of the Guardian Angels, distinct from that of St. Michael, was celebrated in Spain in the 16th century. In 1670 Clement X extended its celebration to the whole Church, placing it on October 2, the first free day after Michaelmas. – The prime duty of the angels, who have already entered into everlasting glory, is the adoration of God (Int., Off., Comm.) and so in the Preface of the Mass we ask God to allow us to join our praise to theirs*. But, as their name indicates, they are also God’s messengers, charged to carry out His behests (Off.) and to watch over us (Ep., Grad.), whence their name Guardian Angels. It is generally agreed that all Christian communities, countries, families, dioceses, churches and religious houses, have each their Guardian Angel**; it is certain that every baptized Christian has his own. To each of us the Church applies what was written of God’s people under the Old Law: “I am sending my angel to go before thee and guard thee on thy way, and lead thee to the place I have made ready for thee” (Ep.) ***. Our Guardian Angel is commissioned to protect and defend us always against the cunning enemies of our soul and all adversities, so that we may reach the promised land of everlasting life (Coll., Sec., Postcomm.). As our faithful companion, we owe him our gratitude, as a saint enjoying the vision of God in heaven, our veneration (Gospel). It is to remind us of this duty that to-day’s feast has been instituted.
* “I have seen the Seraphim,” says Isaias, “they stood near the sublime throne, where Jehovah was seated: their faces veiled they cried out to one another: Holy, holy, holy is the Lord God of Hosts, the whole earth is full of His glory.” Isa. 6, 1-3.
** In some countries they celebrate the feast of the angel of the nation. St. Francis de Sales says that the bishop as such has another guardian angel. Ezechiel says that the angel of the Temple of Jerusalem has a writing case hanging from his girdle (Ezech. 11). These angels of the churches, adds St. Basil, write down our irreverences.
***St. Bernard: Sixth Lesson at Martins.
St. Leger
St. Leger – October 2nd
Leger was sent by his parents to the court of the French King, and although he dedicated his life to the service of God, he always had much to do with the affairs of the rulers. The King sent the boy to Leger’s uncle, Bishop Didon, who took care of his education. When Leger was ordained, he was made an abbot and he ruled well, though rather severely. Next he was appointed Bishop of Autun. He brought peace and new fervor to the people of that city, who had been fighting among themselves before the Saint arrived.
About ten years later, King Clotaire died and St. Leger hurried to the royal palace to help the new King Childeric overcome his enemy, a mayor named Ebroin. As long as King Childeric listened to the advice of Leger, he governed well. But he was young and violent, and at last, he decided to sin and to do as he pleased. St. Leger’s enemies saw their chance. They told the King that Leger was a traitor, and the King sent him into exile.
When Childeric died, St. Leger was allowed to go back Autun. His people welcomed him back joyously. But the Saint’s real sufferings were just beginning. The evil Mayor Ebroin attacked Autun, and since Leger did not want his people to suffer on his account, he gave himself into his enemies’ hands. These cruel men’s first act was to put out the holy bishop’s eyes. He made no resistance and uttered not a sound. Next he and his brother were accused of a great crime, and his brother was put to death, while he himself was tortured. Yet Leger wrote to his mother, who had become a nun, that he forgave his enemies and felt full of courage and charity. Two years later he was put to death, after praying for his executioners.
Where did the Saints get the courage to suffer so much, and to forgive their enemies? From prayer. We, too, when we pray, will find it easy to forgive and to forget little injures for love of God.
Leger was sent by his parents to the court of the French King, and although he dedicated his life to the service of God, he always had much to do with the affairs of the rulers. The King sent the boy to Leger’s uncle, Bishop Didon, who took care of his education. When Leger was ordained, he was made an abbot and he ruled well, though rather severely. Next he was appointed Bishop of Autun. He brought peace and new fervor to the people of that city, who had been fighting among themselves before the Saint arrived.
About ten years later, King Clotaire died and St. Leger hurried to the royal palace to help the new King Childeric overcome his enemy, a mayor named Ebroin. As long as King Childeric listened to the advice of Leger, he governed well. But he was young and violent, and at last, he decided to sin and to do as he pleased. St. Leger’s enemies saw their chance. They told the King that Leger was a traitor, and the King sent him into exile.
When Childeric died, St. Leger was allowed to go back Autun. His people welcomed him back joyously. But the Saint’s real sufferings were just beginning. The evil Mayor Ebroin attacked Autun, and since Leger did not want his people to suffer on his account, he gave himself into his enemies’ hands. These cruel men’s first act was to put out the holy bishop’s eyes. He made no resistance and uttered not a sound. Next he and his brother were accused of a great crime, and his brother was put to death, while he himself was tortured. Yet Leger wrote to his mother, who had become a nun, that he forgave his enemies and felt full of courage and charity. Two years later he was put to death, after praying for his executioners.
Where did the Saints get the courage to suffer so much, and to forgive their enemies? From prayer. We, too, when we pray, will find it easy to forgive and to forget little injures for love of God.
10/1/08
St. Remigius
St. Remigius – October 1st
Sometimes called St. Remi, this Saint became the great apostle of the Franks. These pagan tribes lived in the land that is now France. As a boy, Remigius did very well in his studies and it was the opinion of St. Sidonius that he was the best speaker of his day. In fact, he earned such a reputation for holiness and learning that he was made the Bishop of Rheims when he was only twenty-two years old. With great fervor and energy, the Saint set out to spread the true Faith among the Franks.
The Queen of the Franks was St. Clotilda, and through her influence, King Clovis called on the “God” of the Christians during battle which he had all but lost. From that moment on, he began winning, and that convinced him that Christianity was the true religion. The baptism of the King was performed by St. Remigius, whom the Queen greatly respected as a holy man. The ceremony was magnificent. The streets leading to the church were decorated and a great number of candles brightened the church. But it was the holiness of St. Remigius himself that made the day unforgettable and won a great many Franks to the Faith. To the King, he was not afraid to say, just before baptizing him: “Humble yourself! Worship what you have burned, and burn what you have worshipped!”
During the ceremony, the man who was bringing the holy Chrism needed for the solemn baptism arrived late and could not make his way through the crowds. Then it was that St. Remigius prayed and a dove appeared in the air carrying a little bottle of the holy oil!
With many other miracles and with his own brave zeal, the Saint fought to get rid of all the idols worshipped by the pagan Franks. He lived to be very old, and God rewarded him for all his work by giving him the great joy of seeing many Franks become Christians.
I will pray for my country and for my leaders, who have great and difficult responsibilities.
Sometimes called St. Remi, this Saint became the great apostle of the Franks. These pagan tribes lived in the land that is now France. As a boy, Remigius did very well in his studies and it was the opinion of St. Sidonius that he was the best speaker of his day. In fact, he earned such a reputation for holiness and learning that he was made the Bishop of Rheims when he was only twenty-two years old. With great fervor and energy, the Saint set out to spread the true Faith among the Franks.
The Queen of the Franks was St. Clotilda, and through her influence, King Clovis called on the “God” of the Christians during battle which he had all but lost. From that moment on, he began winning, and that convinced him that Christianity was the true religion. The baptism of the King was performed by St. Remigius, whom the Queen greatly respected as a holy man. The ceremony was magnificent. The streets leading to the church were decorated and a great number of candles brightened the church. But it was the holiness of St. Remigius himself that made the day unforgettable and won a great many Franks to the Faith. To the King, he was not afraid to say, just before baptizing him: “Humble yourself! Worship what you have burned, and burn what you have worshipped!”
During the ceremony, the man who was bringing the holy Chrism needed for the solemn baptism arrived late and could not make his way through the crowds. Then it was that St. Remigius prayed and a dove appeared in the air carrying a little bottle of the holy oil!
With many other miracles and with his own brave zeal, the Saint fought to get rid of all the idols worshipped by the pagan Franks. He lived to be very old, and God rewarded him for all his work by giving him the great joy of seeing many Franks become Christians.
I will pray for my country and for my leaders, who have great and difficult responsibilities.