Blessed Paula Cerioli – December 24th
Paula’s name before she became a nun was Constance. She was the last of sixteen children born to an Italian countess. When Constance was only nineteen, her parents arranged a marriage for her with a rich man who was sixty years old! He was a good man, but a bit odd and quite unattractive. The poor girl could have been miserable all her life, but instead, she made the best of things, and drew closer and closer to Jesus. She counted on His help always.
Constance’s husband died nineteen years later, and she was left with a great fortune. Something her parish priest happened to say made her decide to devote her time and money to poor children and orphans. At once she took two orphans into her great mansion, and her work had started.
Other ladies joined her and they took the vows of a nun. The new community was called the Sisters of the Holy Family. Constance tool the name, Sister Paula. Some years afterwards, a group of men formed themselves into a community of brothers to help Sister Paula in taking care of orphan boys.
Sister Paula especially wanted to train farm children so that they would know how to farm the land well and not suffer poverty. She knew they would all probably spend their lives on farms and she wanted them to be happy in this way of life.
Sister Paula was always very devoted to the Holy Family, and God gave her the grace of dying peacefully one Christmas Eve.
Since I cannot offer much to help poor children, I will be very kind to them.
Showing posts with label Saints-P. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Saints-P. Show all posts
12/24/08
12/9/08
St. Peter Fourier
St. Peter Fourier – December 9th
Peter was born in France and was educated by the Jesuits. He did very well in school, and when he graduated, he opened a little school of his own. He was not satisfied with his life though, and so he entered the Congregation of the Canons Regular of St. Augustine.
For thirty years, St. Peter was a parish priest in a village where many lived bad lives. He worked and prayed for his people and started several holy associations for the men, women, and young girls.
St. Peter was especially concerned for the children. He started a Congregation of nuns to teach poor children in free schools. The Saint himself taught the nuns how to handle the children and what to teach them. He wanted to make sure that the students learned to make bills and write correct letters so that they could obtain good jobs when they finished their schooling.
As to non-Catholic children, he told his nuns, “Treat them kindly and lovingly. Do not let the other children tease them. Do not speak harshly of their religion, but rather show how good and reasonable our Faith is when you speak to the whole class.”
St. Peter was made the Superior of his Congregation, but he spent the last four years of his life doing what he liked best-teaching the children of the poor in a free school he had opened.
When I feel to grumble because I cannot have something I would like, I will think of the many children who have much less than I.
12/4/08
St. Peter Chrysologus
St. Peter Chrysologus – December 4th
Peter was born in Italy and was educated by the Bishop of his own city. Even as a young boy, Peter understood that a man is truly great only if he can control his passions and put on the spirit of Christ.
When he grew up, St. Peter was made the Archbishop of Ravenna, and he worked hard to wipe out the paganism still practiced in his diocese.
It is as a preacher that St. Peter became famous. Indeed, “Chrysologus” means “golden word.” Yet his sermons were all short, because he was afraid to tire his hearers. Besides that, these sermons are not especially unusually unusual or beautiful in style. But St. Peter’s message was more valuable than gold, and he preached with such enthusiasm and fire that people listened to him breathlessly.
In his sermons, St. Peter urged everyone to receive Jesus often in Holy Communion, so that the Body of the Lord might be the daily food for their souls.
This good Archbishop also worked for the unity of all the members of the Catholic Church. He tried to prevent heresies and to keep peace.
For his wonderful sermons, so rich in teaching, Pope Benedict XIII made St. Peter a Doctor of the Church.
I will pray for preachers and I will listen to the Sunday sermon with attention.
Peter was born in Italy and was educated by the Bishop of his own city. Even as a young boy, Peter understood that a man is truly great only if he can control his passions and put on the spirit of Christ.
When he grew up, St. Peter was made the Archbishop of Ravenna, and he worked hard to wipe out the paganism still practiced in his diocese.
It is as a preacher that St. Peter became famous. Indeed, “Chrysologus” means “golden word.” Yet his sermons were all short, because he was afraid to tire his hearers. Besides that, these sermons are not especially unusually unusual or beautiful in style. But St. Peter’s message was more valuable than gold, and he preached with such enthusiasm and fire that people listened to him breathlessly.
In his sermons, St. Peter urged everyone to receive Jesus often in Holy Communion, so that the Body of the Lord might be the daily food for their souls.
This good Archbishop also worked for the unity of all the members of the Catholic Church. He tried to prevent heresies and to keep peace.
For his wonderful sermons, so rich in teaching, Pope Benedict XIII made St. Peter a Doctor of the Church.
I will pray for preachers and I will listen to the Sunday sermon with attention.
11/17/08
Bl. Philippine Duchesne
Bl. Philippine Duchesne – November 17th
This Saint, who labored for Christ in the United States, was born into a wealthy French family. As a youngster, there was nothing especially holy about Philippine. In fact, she often did her best to get her own way and was apt to command everyone else to do what she wanted. In school, her favorite subject was history, and she later became very interested in stories about the American Indians.
At the age of seventeen, Philippine entered the convent, but she was not allowed to take her vows when the time came, because of the French Revolution. All the Professed Sisters were forced by the Revolutionaries to leave the country, and Philippine had to go home. Still she did not give up her desire to belong to Jesus, and several years later she joined the newly Society of the Sacred Heart.
Mother Philippine Duchesne’s great desire was to be a missionary, but she was fifty before she was sent to the United States, which was still a mission land at this time. In Mississippi, she and a small group of Sisters started a free school for the children of poor families, both white and Indian. The work was hard, because of the different languages and ways of the people. But despite the many difficulties, Mother Duchesne never lost her youthful enthusiasm, even though she did become less commanding and more gentle as she grew older.
Mother Duchesne was a real heroine who went through terrible journeys, nearly died from yellow fever and overcame all kinds of obstacles to open Convents in the New World. Then when she was seventy-one, she resigned her position as Superior and went off to open a school among her beloved Indians. She died at the age of eighty-three in a tiny room in which she had chosen to live in great poverty.
I will ask Our Divine Lord to increase my faith and confidence in Him, especially when things are hard.
This Saint, who labored for Christ in the United States, was born into a wealthy French family. As a youngster, there was nothing especially holy about Philippine. In fact, she often did her best to get her own way and was apt to command everyone else to do what she wanted. In school, her favorite subject was history, and she later became very interested in stories about the American Indians.
At the age of seventeen, Philippine entered the convent, but she was not allowed to take her vows when the time came, because of the French Revolution. All the Professed Sisters were forced by the Revolutionaries to leave the country, and Philippine had to go home. Still she did not give up her desire to belong to Jesus, and several years later she joined the newly Society of the Sacred Heart.
Mother Philippine Duchesne’s great desire was to be a missionary, but she was fifty before she was sent to the United States, which was still a mission land at this time. In Mississippi, she and a small group of Sisters started a free school for the children of poor families, both white and Indian. The work was hard, because of the different languages and ways of the people. But despite the many difficulties, Mother Duchesne never lost her youthful enthusiasm, even though she did become less commanding and more gentle as she grew older.
Mother Duchesne was a real heroine who went through terrible journeys, nearly died from yellow fever and overcame all kinds of obstacles to open Convents in the New World. Then when she was seventy-one, she resigned her position as Superior and went off to open a school among her beloved Indians. She died at the age of eighty-three in a tiny room in which she had chosen to live in great poverty.
I will ask Our Divine Lord to increase my faith and confidence in Him, especially when things are hard.
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.
9/24/08
St. Pacificus of San Severino
St. Pacificus of San Severino – September 24th
When a little Italian boy named Charles Anthony was just five years old, his good parents both died, and he was given to the care of his uncle. This uncle was a cross, mean man and he treated Charles worse than a servant. Yet the boy took this hard treatment quietly and patiently. When he was seventeen, Charles entered a monastery and took the name of Pacificus, which means “peaceful.” After he became a priest, he was made a teacher, but his great desire was to become a preacher. How happy he was when his superior sent him on a preaching mission to many little towns and villages!
St. Pacificus was very popular with the good country folk because his talks were simple and sweet. Besides that, he had the marvelous gift of reading consciences! Once, he reminded a man in confession that he had been unkind to his mother and had kept impure thoughts in his mind. Everywhere the Saint went to preach and hear confessions, he did much good.
But when he had been preaching only about six years, Pacificus had to give it up because he became blind, deaf and crippled. He spent his time praying and doing penance in his monastery, helping others in any way he could. God was always very close to this humble Saint and He gave him the gift of prophecy. St. Pacificus foretold the great victory of the Christian armies over the Turks at Belgrade. He also said to a Bishop: “Your Excellency-Heaven! Heaven! And I will follow you soon!” About two weeks later, the bishop died, and not long after, just as he had said, St. Pacificus died, too. Many miracles took place at his grave.
St. Pacificus’ rule of life, for himself and for the others, was: “Do well, moment by moment.” Let us, too, make this our own rule of perfection.
When a little Italian boy named Charles Anthony was just five years old, his good parents both died, and he was given to the care of his uncle. This uncle was a cross, mean man and he treated Charles worse than a servant. Yet the boy took this hard treatment quietly and patiently. When he was seventeen, Charles entered a monastery and took the name of Pacificus, which means “peaceful.” After he became a priest, he was made a teacher, but his great desire was to become a preacher. How happy he was when his superior sent him on a preaching mission to many little towns and villages!
St. Pacificus was very popular with the good country folk because his talks were simple and sweet. Besides that, he had the marvelous gift of reading consciences! Once, he reminded a man in confession that he had been unkind to his mother and had kept impure thoughts in his mind. Everywhere the Saint went to preach and hear confessions, he did much good.
But when he had been preaching only about six years, Pacificus had to give it up because he became blind, deaf and crippled. He spent his time praying and doing penance in his monastery, helping others in any way he could. God was always very close to this humble Saint and He gave him the gift of prophecy. St. Pacificus foretold the great victory of the Christian armies over the Turks at Belgrade. He also said to a Bishop: “Your Excellency-Heaven! Heaven! And I will follow you soon!” About two weeks later, the bishop died, and not long after, just as he had said, St. Pacificus died, too. Many miracles took place at his grave.
St. Pacificus’ rule of life, for himself and for the others, was: “Do well, moment by moment.” Let us, too, make this our own rule of perfection.
9/19/08
St. Januarius and His Companions
St. Januarius and His Companions – September 19
St. Januarius, bishop of Benevento, was beheaded at Pozzuoli near Naples at the beginning of the 4th century. Among his companions in martyrdom the Roman martyrology names Socius, Proculus, Eutychius and Acutius. The fame of St. Januarius rests chiefly on the miracle of the liquefaction of his blood, which still occurs in the cathedral of Naples. The dry blood, coagulated in a dark lump, is kept in a glass phial; when this is placed near the martyr’s head, the blood becomes liquid, increasing in weight and volume, and takes on the bright red colour of fresh blood, while its surface bubbles so that it is said to boil. This phenomenon takes place three times a year: during nine days festival beginning on the first Sunday of May; during the octave of his feast from September 19 to 26; and on December 16.
St. Januarius, bishop of Benevento, was beheaded at Pozzuoli near Naples at the beginning of the 4th century. Among his companions in martyrdom the Roman martyrology names Socius, Proculus, Eutychius and Acutius. The fame of St. Januarius rests chiefly on the miracle of the liquefaction of his blood, which still occurs in the cathedral of Naples. The dry blood, coagulated in a dark lump, is kept in a glass phial; when this is placed near the martyr’s head, the blood becomes liquid, increasing in weight and volume, and takes on the bright red colour of fresh blood, while its surface bubbles so that it is said to boil. This phenomenon takes place three times a year: during nine days festival beginning on the first Sunday of May; during the octave of his feast from September 19 to 26; and on December 16.
9/10/08
The Martyrs of Japan
The Martyrs of Japan – September 10th
On September tenth, in 1622, on a hill near Nagasaki, there took place what is called the great Martyrdom of Japan. Missionaries and lay people from Europe, and Japanese priests, men, women and children were put to death because they refused to give up their Faith in Jesus. The tortures they suffered seem unbelievable, yet they faced them cheerfully. They were killed by slow fires; they were lowered into a pit of hot sulphur called Hell’s Mouth; they were buried alive, branded with a cross, or left out in open prisons without coverings of food. Yet, one Japanese Christian wrote: “How happy I would be if I could be one of those glorious prisoners of Jesus Christ whose blessedness it is to die a martyr’s death!”
One little child named Peter, just six years old, was awakened in the morning to be told that he was to die with his father. Without a word, the little fellow put on his best clothes and placed his hand into the hand of the soldier who had come to lead him to his death. The first thing he saw when he reached the execution site his father’s dead body. Peter did not scream or run away. Quietly he knelt down beside that headless corpse and prayed. Then he loosened his collar and presented his neck for the stroke of the sword.
At the sight of such courage in a six-year-old child the executioner flung down his sword and ran away. No one but a cruel slave would behead the little Christian, and even he trembled so that he made the child suffer terribly before he finally killed him. Yet Blessed Peter never made a sound!
Mothers died with their children, husbands and wives were martyred together. An English sea captain said that the little ones, five and six years old, being burned in their mothers’ arms, cried out: “Jesus, receive out souls!”
So it was that in the year 1622, Japan gave many glorious and blessed martyrs to the Church and to Heaven!
What generous souls these martyrs were! And what are we doing for the salvation of our souls? If they could die for God, we can at least avoid complaining about little pains….
On September tenth, in 1622, on a hill near Nagasaki, there took place what is called the great Martyrdom of Japan. Missionaries and lay people from Europe, and Japanese priests, men, women and children were put to death because they refused to give up their Faith in Jesus. The tortures they suffered seem unbelievable, yet they faced them cheerfully. They were killed by slow fires; they were lowered into a pit of hot sulphur called Hell’s Mouth; they were buried alive, branded with a cross, or left out in open prisons without coverings of food. Yet, one Japanese Christian wrote: “How happy I would be if I could be one of those glorious prisoners of Jesus Christ whose blessedness it is to die a martyr’s death!”
One little child named Peter, just six years old, was awakened in the morning to be told that he was to die with his father. Without a word, the little fellow put on his best clothes and placed his hand into the hand of the soldier who had come to lead him to his death. The first thing he saw when he reached the execution site his father’s dead body. Peter did not scream or run away. Quietly he knelt down beside that headless corpse and prayed. Then he loosened his collar and presented his neck for the stroke of the sword.
At the sight of such courage in a six-year-old child the executioner flung down his sword and ran away. No one but a cruel slave would behead the little Christian, and even he trembled so that he made the child suffer terribly before he finally killed him. Yet Blessed Peter never made a sound!
Mothers died with their children, husbands and wives were martyred together. An English sea captain said that the little ones, five and six years old, being burned in their mothers’ arms, cried out: “Jesus, receive out souls!”
So it was that in the year 1622, Japan gave many glorious and blessed martyrs to the Church and to Heaven!
What generous souls these martyrs were! And what are we doing for the salvation of our souls? If they could die for God, we can at least avoid complaining about little pains….
9/9/08
St. Peter Claver
St. Peter Claver - Patron of Colombia and of Negro Catholic Missions - September 9th
This Spanish priest of the Society of Jesus is known as the Apostle of the Slaves. While he was still studying to become a Jesuit, he felt a burning desire to go to South America as a missionary. He volunteered and was sent to the seaport of Cartagena, where great shiploads of African slaves were brought to be sold.
At the sight of those poor people all crowded together, sick and suffering, Peter felt great pity. He made up his mind to help them and to convert them. “The slave of the Negroes forever” is what he called himself. As soon as a shipload arrived, he would go among the hundreds of the sick slaves giving them medicine and food, baptizing the dying and the little babies, and nursing the ill. It was such hard, sickening work, in that terrible heat, that one man who went once with St. Peter could never face the horrible sight again. Yet Peter did it for forty years!
Although their owners tried to stop him, the Saint patiently taught the Faith to the slaves. He used pictures of Jesus Crucified, to show them how much God loved them. He used a picture of Hell to make them feel sorry for their sins. In this way, he succeeded in baptizing about 300,000 slaves over the years. Yet it was slow, discouraging work and many people criticized him, saying it was all a waste of time. They thought the slaves would never keep the Faith. St. Peter, however, went to visit them after they left Cartagena and never stopped urging the slaveowners to take care of the souls of their slaves and to be better Christians themselves.
When people praised St. Peter for being able to treat disgusting diseases in conditions that no one else could stand, he would simply say: “If being a saint means having no taste and having a strong stomach, I admit that I may be one!” As if all he did were not enough penance, he also treated his body very harshly and practiced great mortifications. During the last four years of his life, he was so sick that he had to stay in his room and could not even celebrate Mass. Most everyone forgot about him, but he never complained. Then suddenly at his death, the whole city realized they had lost a saint and from then on he was never forgotten again.
Today let us pray for Missionaries. Also let us help them with little offerings every time we can.
This Spanish priest of the Society of Jesus is known as the Apostle of the Slaves. While he was still studying to become a Jesuit, he felt a burning desire to go to South America as a missionary. He volunteered and was sent to the seaport of Cartagena, where great shiploads of African slaves were brought to be sold.
At the sight of those poor people all crowded together, sick and suffering, Peter felt great pity. He made up his mind to help them and to convert them. “The slave of the Negroes forever” is what he called himself. As soon as a shipload arrived, he would go among the hundreds of the sick slaves giving them medicine and food, baptizing the dying and the little babies, and nursing the ill. It was such hard, sickening work, in that terrible heat, that one man who went once with St. Peter could never face the horrible sight again. Yet Peter did it for forty years!
Although their owners tried to stop him, the Saint patiently taught the Faith to the slaves. He used pictures of Jesus Crucified, to show them how much God loved them. He used a picture of Hell to make them feel sorry for their sins. In this way, he succeeded in baptizing about 300,000 slaves over the years. Yet it was slow, discouraging work and many people criticized him, saying it was all a waste of time. They thought the slaves would never keep the Faith. St. Peter, however, went to visit them after they left Cartagena and never stopped urging the slaveowners to take care of the souls of their slaves and to be better Christians themselves.
When people praised St. Peter for being able to treat disgusting diseases in conditions that no one else could stand, he would simply say: “If being a saint means having no taste and having a strong stomach, I admit that I may be one!” As if all he did were not enough penance, he also treated his body very harshly and practiced great mortifications. During the last four years of his life, he was so sick that he had to stay in his room and could not even celebrate Mass. Most everyone forgot about him, but he never complained. Then suddenly at his death, the whole city realized they had lost a saint and from then on he was never forgotten again.
Today let us pray for Missionaries. Also let us help them with little offerings every time we can.
9/3/08
St. Pius X
St. Pius X – September 3rd
This great Pope’s name was Joseph Sarto. He was the son of the mailman in the little Italian town of Riese, and was given the affectionate nickname of “Beppi.” The Sarto’s were a large family, very poor, but very devout, good people. When young Joseph felt that God wanted him to be a priest, he had to make many sacrifices to reach his goal, but he did not mind. He even walked miles to school barefoot to save his one good pair of shoes.
After he was ordained a priest, Joseph Sarto labored for the souls in poor parishes for seventeen years. All the people loved him because he used to give away everything he had to help them. His sisters even had to hide his shirts or he would have nothing left to wear. Even after this good priest had become a Bishop and then a Cardinal, he still gave away what he owned to the poor, and kept nothing for himself.
When Pope Leo XIII died, Cardinal Sarto was chosen Pope, even though he kept saying he was not worthy. He took the name of Pius X, and became known as the Pope who overcame a dangerous heresy and the Pope of the Holy Eucharist, because he encouraged everyone to receive Jesus as often as they could. He also made a law permitting young children to receive Holy Communion, too. Before that time, boys and girls had to wait many years before they could receive Our Lord.
Even as Pope, St. Pius X lived as humbly and simply as ever. “I was born poor,” he said, “I have lived poor, and I wish to die poor.” He did so much to help the poor that people wondered where all the money came from. God gave him the power to work miracles, too. “Cure me, Holy Father!” a man once said, pointing to his paralyzed arm. The Pope rubbed the arm gently, saying “Yes, yes.” And the arm was healed. There were many cures like this one.
When the terrible World War! Broke out, St. Pius X suffered greatly at the thought of all those who would be killed. He had said: “I would gladly give my life to save my poor children from this horrible suffering!” And a short time later, Our Lord did indeed come for this beloved Pope.
I will pray often: “Dear Lord, I am not worthy to receive You into my heart. But in order to overcome my defects, I want to love You more and receive You in Holy Communion even every day if I can.”
8/23/08
St. Philip Benizi
St. Philip Benizi - August 23rd
Philip was a noble young doctor in his own city of Florence, Italy. In his spare time, he studied the Holy Bible and prayed that he might know what he was to do in life. At last, he was inspired to join the Order of Servants of Mary, called the Servites. He asked them to accept him as a brother, saying humbly, “I wish to be the servant of the Servants of Mary.”
Philip was made the gardener because no one knew how brilliant this young man was, and he himself wanted to remain hidden and unnoticed. Happily he talked to Our Lord in his heart as he went about his humble work. But one day, on a trip, without realizing it, Philip spoke so intelligently and beautifully that his brothers told the Superior what a brilliant and learned man the brother-gardener was. Soon he became a priest, then Master of Novices, and finally, Superior of the whole Order!
All his life St. Philip worked to make all Christians everywhere love one another. He succeeded in stopping many fights between Christians in Italy. Indeed, he made such an impression on some of the ringleaders that they changed their lives completely and became very holy men.
God gave this Saint the gift of working miracles. Once his monks had no more food at all and seemed about to starve to death. St. Philip urged them to have faith while he prayed to our Blessed Mother. Suddenly there was a knock at the door and when they opened it, there on the monastery steps sat ten great big baskets of bread.
Before he died, St. Philip kept saying to his brother Servites: “Love one another! Have respect for one another! Love one another!”
What a beautiful rule for a happy and holy life, “Love one another! Love one another!”
8/11/08
St. Philomena
St. Philomena The Wonder-Worker - August 11th
St. Philomena is perhaps the most extraordinary saint in the history of the Catholic Church.
When the relics of this 13-year-old Virgin Martyr were discovered in the Roman Catacombs in 1802, she became almost overnight one of the most popular saints in the Church, earning the nickname of "The Wonder-Worker" because of the countless remarkable favors that she sent to those who prayed to her. For a century and a half there was a worlwide Catholic devotion to St. Philomena, approved by many Popes. But amazingly, since the 1960's, she has been forgotten.
This little book by the beloved Fr. Paul O'Sullivan-author of All About the Angels, Read Me or Rue It, The Secret of Confession, etc.-gives the fascinating story of St. Philomena. Fr. O'Sullivan tells of her martyrdom, her miracles, her relics, her partnership with the Cure of Ars, and the great miracle involving Pauline Jaricot, as well as recounting many other true stories of the "dear Little Saint's" generous answers to those who invoke her.
God obviously wishes to give out His gifts and favors throough the hands of St. Philomena, and it is His will that we ask her for them. These pages will give new hope to all whoneed a special friend in Heaven to answer their prayers.
May this little book help to open up the floodgates of heavenly gifts so that once again this sweet young Saint will become known by that beautiful title: St. Philomena-The Wonder-Worker!
8/1/08
St. Peter in Chains
St. Peter in Chains - August 1st
To please the enemies of the Christians, King Herod Agrippa had put St. James to death, and now he planned to do the same to St. Peter, the Head of the Church. Once he had him in prison, he set a heavy guard about him to make sure he would not escape. But all the Christians of Jerusalem were begging the Lord to save St. Peter, and their prayers were answered.
The night before he was to be condemned, St. Peter was peacefully sleeping in his prison cell between his two guards bound tightly by two chains. He was unafraid of death and ready to do God’s will. Suddenly an angel appeared and tapped him on the side to awaken him. He told him to get up at once, put on his cloak and his sandals and follow him. At the same moment, both the chains fell from his hands! Out the two went, past two sets of guards, and the angel led St. Peter out to the street. Then he disappeared. Up to then, Peter had thought he might be dreaming, but now he knew that God had really sent an angel to free him! What joy and gratitude filled his heart!
At once, the Apostle went to the home of Mary, St. Mark’s mother, where many Christians were praying for his safety. He knocked at the door and a young women named Rhoda came to ask who it was, without opening the door. When she heard St. Peter’s voice, she ran joyfully to tell the others. They, however, could not believe the news. “It must be his angel,” they said, when she kept insisting. Meanwhile St. Peter knocked again. At last they let him in, and their happiness was immense when they saw it was truly St. Peter himself! He told them how the angel had freed him, and all together they blessed and thanked the Lord.
Our Lord never abandons those who serve Him, even though sometimes He permits them to be persecuted. God also listens to the prayers that good people offer for those who are suffering.
To please the enemies of the Christians, King Herod Agrippa had put St. James to death, and now he planned to do the same to St. Peter, the Head of the Church. Once he had him in prison, he set a heavy guard about him to make sure he would not escape. But all the Christians of Jerusalem were begging the Lord to save St. Peter, and their prayers were answered.
The night before he was to be condemned, St. Peter was peacefully sleeping in his prison cell between his two guards bound tightly by two chains. He was unafraid of death and ready to do God’s will. Suddenly an angel appeared and tapped him on the side to awaken him. He told him to get up at once, put on his cloak and his sandals and follow him. At the same moment, both the chains fell from his hands! Out the two went, past two sets of guards, and the angel led St. Peter out to the street. Then he disappeared. Up to then, Peter had thought he might be dreaming, but now he knew that God had really sent an angel to free him! What joy and gratitude filled his heart!
At once, the Apostle went to the home of Mary, St. Mark’s mother, where many Christians were praying for his safety. He knocked at the door and a young women named Rhoda came to ask who it was, without opening the door. When she heard St. Peter’s voice, she ran joyfully to tell the others. They, however, could not believe the news. “It must be his angel,” they said, when she kept insisting. Meanwhile St. Peter knocked again. At last they let him in, and their happiness was immense when they saw it was truly St. Peter himself! He told them how the angel had freed him, and all together they blessed and thanked the Lord.
Our Lord never abandons those who serve Him, even though sometimes He permits them to be persecuted. God also listens to the prayers that good people offer for those who are suffering.
Photos courtesy of Anthony De Piante http://depianteinrome.blogspot.com/
7/27/08
St. Pantaleon
St. Pantaleon - Patron of Doctors - July 27th
Pantaleon came from Nicomedia, near the Black sea, in Asia. He was such a famous doctor that the Emperor himself chose him for his own doctor. There, at the wicked, pagan court, Pantaleon got into trouble. He was a Christian, but little by little he let the bad example all around him ruin him. He began to agree with the false wisdom praised by the pagans, until at last he committed the great sin of giving up his Christian Faith entirely.
A holy priest named Hermolaos was deeply saddened to see the famous doctor desert Our Lord. He went to him and, with his wise, kind words, made him realize what a sin he had committed. Pantaleon listened to him and admitted that he had done very wrong. He detested his sin and joined the Church once more. To make up for what he had done, he greatly desired to suffer and die for charity by taking care of poor sick people without any charge.
When the Emperor Diocletian began his persecution, Pantaleon at once gave away everything he owned to the poor. Not long afterwards, some jealous doctors accused him of being a Christian, and he was given the choice of denying his Faith or being put to death. Pantaleon absolutely refused to say he was not a Christian and no torture could make him do it.
There has been strong devotion in past ages to this Saint. In the East he is called the “Great Martyr and Wonder-worker.”
Let us avoid all companions, TV and radio programs, or books and magazines which could be a danger to our Faith.
7/21/08
St. Praxedes
St. Praxedes - July 21st
This Roman maiden came from a family of saints who had been converted by the great Apostles Peter and Paul. When she and her sister, St. Pudentiana, were left with a huge fortune by their holy father, Senator Pudens, they used it all for God. Together they prayed, read sacred books, helped the poor, and comforted the Christians suffering in prison for the Faith.
When St. Pudentiana died, Praxedes continued doing the same good deeds alone. Although the Christians were being persecuted terribly and she helped them in every way she could, the Saint herself was never arrested. Perhaps because she came hid Christians in her home, gave all her money away, and even buried the bodies of the martyrs.
Her heart broke to see how the Christians had to suffer, especially when she had nothing left to give away. It was then that she asked God to take her to Heaven, since she could not be of any service any more.
Today I will offer to Our Lord a few little sacrifices for the persecuted Christians in different parts of the world.
This Roman maiden came from a family of saints who had been converted by the great Apostles Peter and Paul. When she and her sister, St. Pudentiana, were left with a huge fortune by their holy father, Senator Pudens, they used it all for God. Together they prayed, read sacred books, helped the poor, and comforted the Christians suffering in prison for the Faith.
When St. Pudentiana died, Praxedes continued doing the same good deeds alone. Although the Christians were being persecuted terribly and she helped them in every way she could, the Saint herself was never arrested. Perhaps because she came hid Christians in her home, gave all her money away, and even buried the bodies of the martyrs.
Her heart broke to see how the Christians had to suffer, especially when she had nothing left to give away. It was then that she asked God to take her to Heaven, since she could not be of any service any more.
Today I will offer to Our Lord a few little sacrifices for the persecuted Christians in different parts of the world.
Padre Pio and America
Padre Pio and America
By: Frank M. Rega
First titled, The Holy Man on the Mountain, this book tells the fascinating life story of Padre Pio, with emphasis on his life as a seminarian, young priest and his early decades at San Giovanni Rotondo. Incredible is the number of times the Capuchins sent him home sick unto death while a seminarian and young priest and how he was finally sent to remote San Giovanni Rotondo “for a couple of weeks of mountain air”. He never left. But from this small, remote mountain friary, he became world famous and exercised unbelievable influence on the entire world–though early on, he was forbidden by his superiors to preach, to write or to correspond. A few clerics developed enmity toward Padre Pio, resulting several times in orders from his superiors that he be moved. It is simply hilarious to learn why he never was–though being under obedience, he was entirely willing to do so.
The author also weaves in the Saint’s early work with L’Americana, Mary Pyle, his “foreign ambassadress,” and then with the American GI’s who came to visit him during WWII, when San Giovanni Rotondo was liberated from the Germans. Padre Pio developed a special love for Americans and America–to the point that he wished that all Americans would become his spiritual children.
This book demonstrates Padre Pio’s great love for his parents, his amazing sense of humor, his abstemious eating, his uncanny knowledge of people (even before they visited), and his profound supernatural awareness. In sum, Padre Pio and America is an inspiring book that will instill a profound awe in readers because it shows the impact a truly saintly priest can have on all who come into contact with him–and in Padre Pio’s case, even on the whole world!
First titled, The Holy Man on the Mountain, this book tells the fascinating life story of Padre Pio, with emphasis on his life as a seminarian, young priest and his early decades at San Giovanni Rotondo. Incredible is the number of times the Capuchins sent him home sick unto death while a seminarian and young priest and how he was finally sent to remote San Giovanni Rotondo “for a couple of weeks of mountain air”. He never left. But from this small, remote mountain friary, he became world famous and exercised unbelievable influence on the entire world–though early on, he was forbidden by his superiors to preach, to write or to correspond. A few clerics developed enmity toward Padre Pio, resulting several times in orders from his superiors that he be moved. It is simply hilarious to learn why he never was–though being under obedience, he was entirely willing to do so.
The author also weaves in the Saint’s early work with L’Americana, Mary Pyle, his “foreign ambassadress,” and then with the American GI’s who came to visit him during WWII, when San Giovanni Rotondo was liberated from the Germans. Padre Pio developed a special love for Americans and America–to the point that he wished that all Americans would become his spiritual children.
This book demonstrates Padre Pio’s great love for his parents, his amazing sense of humor, his abstemious eating, his uncanny knowledge of people (even before they visited), and his profound supernatural awareness. In sum, Padre Pio and America is an inspiring book that will instill a profound awe in readers because it shows the impact a truly saintly priest can have on all who come into contact with him–and in Padre Pio’s case, even on the whole world!
To order this book, go to:
6/30/08
The Martyrdom of St. Paul
The Martyrdom of St. Paul - June 30th
St. Paul is the great Apostle who first persecuted the Christians and then was converted. At the time of his conversion, Jesus had said: I will show him how much he must suffer for Me.”
St. Paul loved Jesus Crucified very much-so much that he became living copy of Our Divine Savior. All his life, during his many missionary trips, St. Paul met troubles and went through dangers of every kind. He was whipped, stoned, shipwrecked, and lost at sea. Many, many times, he was hungry, thirsty, and cold.
Yet, he always trusted in God. He never stopped preaching. “The love of Jesus presses me onward,” he said. In reward, God gave him great comfort and in every suffering.
When St. Paul found out that the Emperor Nero had begun a terrible persecution in Rome, he hurried back to Rome to comfort and encourage the Christians. The thought of the danger did not stop him. Before long, however, he and St. Peter were also put in prison and condemned. They were led out to execution together. As they walked along, these two great heroes of Christ encouraged each other.
At a certain point they were separated. St. Peter was crucified on Vatican Hill, and St. Paul was taken and beheaded near the place where his Basilica now stands. With what faith St. Paul bowed his head to accept the blow! From prison he had written: “Behold, the time of my deliverance is at hand. I have fought the good fight. I have kept the Faith. And there is laid up for me a crown, which the Lord will give me and to all those who love and serve Him.”
When we have some trouble or little cross, let us think of St. Paul, and let us pray to him for patience and more love of God.
St. Paul is the great Apostle who first persecuted the Christians and then was converted. At the time of his conversion, Jesus had said: I will show him how much he must suffer for Me.”
St. Paul loved Jesus Crucified very much-so much that he became living copy of Our Divine Savior. All his life, during his many missionary trips, St. Paul met troubles and went through dangers of every kind. He was whipped, stoned, shipwrecked, and lost at sea. Many, many times, he was hungry, thirsty, and cold.
Yet, he always trusted in God. He never stopped preaching. “The love of Jesus presses me onward,” he said. In reward, God gave him great comfort and in every suffering.
When St. Paul found out that the Emperor Nero had begun a terrible persecution in Rome, he hurried back to Rome to comfort and encourage the Christians. The thought of the danger did not stop him. Before long, however, he and St. Peter were also put in prison and condemned. They were led out to execution together. As they walked along, these two great heroes of Christ encouraged each other.
At a certain point they were separated. St. Peter was crucified on Vatican Hill, and St. Paul was taken and beheaded near the place where his Basilica now stands. With what faith St. Paul bowed his head to accept the blow! From prison he had written: “Behold, the time of my deliverance is at hand. I have fought the good fight. I have kept the Faith. And there is laid up for me a crown, which the Lord will give me and to all those who love and serve Him.”
When we have some trouble or little cross, let us think of St. Paul, and let us pray to him for patience and more love of God.
6/29/08
St. Peter
St. Peter - June 29th
Peter, the first Pope and the prince of the Apostles, was a fisherman when Jesus invited him to follow Him, saying: “I will make you a fisher of men.” Peter was a simple man who sometimes acted without thinking, but he was generous, honest and very much attached to Our Lord.
This great Apostle’s name was Simon, but Jesus Himself changed it to Peter, which means “rock.” “You are Peter,” Jesus said, “and on this rock I shall build my Church.”
Because he did not pray for strength, he became afraid when Our Lord was arrested. It was then that he committed the sin of denying Our Lord three times, but he repented, and wept over his sin the rest of his life. Jesus forgave Peter and, after His Resurrection, asked him three times: “Do you love Me? Poor Peter! “Lord,” he said, “You know all things. You know I love You.” Then Our Lord said: “Feed My lambs and My Sheep.” He was telling Peter to rule over the whole Church, and after Our Lord went back to Heaven, Peter was the leader of all the Christians.
He went to Rome to live and converted many pagans. When a great persecution began, the Christians begged St. Peter to leave Rome and save himself. He started out, but on the road, he met Our Lord coming in. “Lord, where are you going?” Peter asked. And Jesus answered, “I am coming to be crucified a second time.” Then St. Peter turned around and went back, for he knew that the vision meant he was the one who was to die on the cross. He was taken prisoner and condemned to death by crucifixion. St. Peter asked to be crucified with his head downward, because he said he was not worthy to suffer as Jesus had.
If we have fallen into sin, we should not get discouraged. We should imitate St. Peter by being sorry and loving Jesus more than ever before.
6/26/08
St. Pelagius
St. Pelagius - June 26th
This boy martyr of Spain lived in the days when the Moors ruled part of his homeland and were fighting the Spanish Christians. Pelagius was only ten when his uncle had to leave him as a hostage with the Moors in the city of Cordova. He would not be allowed to go free until his uncle sent what the Moors demanded.
Three years passed and still the young Christian remained a prisoner. By this time, he was a handsome, lively boy of thirteen, and although many of the other prisoners were men of evil habits, Pelagius was not led to sin by their example. For one so young, he had a strong will and knew how to keep himself good-even in a prison.
The ruler of the Moors heard about the handsome young prisoner and he sent for him. He liked what he saw, and he offered Pelagius his freedom, plus fine clothes to wear, beautiful horses to ride, honor, money-as long as he would give up his Faith and become a Mohammedan like his captors.
“All those things you named mean nothing to me,” answered the boy firmly. “I have been a Christian. I am a Christian now. I shall continue to be a Christian.” Then the ruler tried threatening Pelagius, but neither his promises nor his threats had any effect.
What courage and generosity in this young boy of thirteen! He died a martyr for his Faith. Let us ask ourselves how faithful we are at least to the few little practices of piety our Religion requires of us.
This boy martyr of Spain lived in the days when the Moors ruled part of his homeland and were fighting the Spanish Christians. Pelagius was only ten when his uncle had to leave him as a hostage with the Moors in the city of Cordova. He would not be allowed to go free until his uncle sent what the Moors demanded.
Three years passed and still the young Christian remained a prisoner. By this time, he was a handsome, lively boy of thirteen, and although many of the other prisoners were men of evil habits, Pelagius was not led to sin by their example. For one so young, he had a strong will and knew how to keep himself good-even in a prison.
The ruler of the Moors heard about the handsome young prisoner and he sent for him. He liked what he saw, and he offered Pelagius his freedom, plus fine clothes to wear, beautiful horses to ride, honor, money-as long as he would give up his Faith and become a Mohammedan like his captors.
“All those things you named mean nothing to me,” answered the boy firmly. “I have been a Christian. I am a Christian now. I shall continue to be a Christian.” Then the ruler tried threatening Pelagius, but neither his promises nor his threats had any effect.
What courage and generosity in this young boy of thirteen! He died a martyr for his Faith. Let us ask ourselves how faithful we are at least to the few little practices of piety our Religion requires of us.
6/2/08
St. Pothinus and the Martyrs of Lyons
St. Pothinus and the Martyrs of Lyons - June 2nd
Lyons is a city in France, and back in the very early days of the Church, there was a great persecution of the Christians in that region. As it grew worse, some weak Christians were so afraid of being tortured that they gave up their Faith. But the braver ones, who trusted in God, soon won back their weaker brothers, and all together, they suffered for Jesus.
Some were burned with red-hot plates; some were thrown to beasts; some were whipped; and some were roasted in an iron chair. A slave girl named Blandina amazed her persecutors by her courage. She was tortured all day long, but in the end, it was her torturers who gave up, not she. On the last day of the martyrdoms, Blandina was brought out before all the people to suffer again. Yet she looked as happy as if she were going to her wedding! In fact, she was so intent on talking in her heart to Jesus that she did not even feel it when she was tossed over and over again by a bull! When she was killed, the pagans themselves said they had never seen a women show such courage.
The leader of all these martyrs was the bishop of Lyons. St. Pothinus. He was ninety years old. They kicked and beat him so much that he died two day later in prison.
Let us always be thankful that we share in the divine Faith as these strong Christians. May we never be ashamed of being followers of Christ.
Lyons is a city in France, and back in the very early days of the Church, there was a great persecution of the Christians in that region. As it grew worse, some weak Christians were so afraid of being tortured that they gave up their Faith. But the braver ones, who trusted in God, soon won back their weaker brothers, and all together, they suffered for Jesus.
Some were burned with red-hot plates; some were thrown to beasts; some were whipped; and some were roasted in an iron chair. A slave girl named Blandina amazed her persecutors by her courage. She was tortured all day long, but in the end, it was her torturers who gave up, not she. On the last day of the martyrdoms, Blandina was brought out before all the people to suffer again. Yet she looked as happy as if she were going to her wedding! In fact, she was so intent on talking in her heart to Jesus that she did not even feel it when she was tossed over and over again by a bull! When she was killed, the pagans themselves said they had never seen a women show such courage.
The leader of all these martyrs was the bishop of Lyons. St. Pothinus. He was ninety years old. They kicked and beat him so much that he died two day later in prison.
Let us always be thankful that we share in the divine Faith as these strong Christians. May we never be ashamed of being followers of Christ.
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