|
| Date | Saint | |
| December | ||
| 3 |
St. Francis Xavier-nobleman and priest who studied and taught philosophy at the University of Paris. His friend St. Ignatius of Loyola convinced him to use his talents to spread the Gospel. One of the founding Jesuits and the first Jesuit missionary. In India he worked with the sick and taught children their catechism. He is said to have converted the entire city of God. Always helped the poor and forgotten. He had the gift of tongues and was known to raise people from the dead and calm storms. Patron of missions and missionaries, plague epidemics and the Propagation of the Faith. "It is not the actual physical exertion that counts towards a man's progress, not the nature of the task, but by the spirit of faith with which it is undertaken." |
|
| 4 | St. John Damascene- priest, highly educated in the classical fields (geometry, literature, logic, rhetoric, etc.) Defended the use of icons and images in churches. Adapted choral music for use in the liturgy. Proclaimed a Doctor of the Church in 1890 by Pope Leo XIII. "The saints must be honored as friends of Christ and children and heirs of God, as John the theologian and evangelist says: 'but as many as received him, he gave them the power to be made the sons of God...' Let us carefully observe the manner of life of all the apostles, martyrs, ascetics and just men who announced the coming of the Lord. And let us emulate their faith, charity, hope, zeal, life, patience under suffering, and perseverance unto death, so that we may also share their crowns of glory." | |
| 6 | St. Nicholas of Myra - priest, abbot and bishop. Generous to the poor and special protector of the innocent and wronged. Many stories grew up around him prior to his becoming Santa Claus. Patron against imprisonment, robberies, pharmacists, bakers boatmen, brides, captives, school children and travelers to name a few. | |
| 7 | St. Ambrose of Milan- brother of Sts. Marcellina and Satyrus. Poet and noted orator. Preacher, teacher, bible student of renown, and writer of liturgical hymns. He stood firm against pagans and Arians. His preaching helped convert St. Augustine of Hippo. Proclaimed a great Doctor of the Latin Church by Pope Boniface VIII in 1298. Called the "Honey Tongued Doctor" because of his speaking and preaching ability. This led to the use of a beehive and bees in his iconography, symbols which also indicate wisdom. Patron of bee keepers, candle makers, domestic animals, and schoolchildren. "No one heals himself by wounding another." | |
| 12 | Our Lady of Guadalupe-Mother of the Americas. Mary's words of trust and love to Juan Diego at Guadalupe: "Listen, my son, to what I will tell you now. Do not be troubled by anything. Do not fear illness or any disturbing occurrence or pain. Am I not your Mother? Am I not Life and Health? Have I not placed you in my care and made you my responsibility? Do you need anything else?" | |
| 13 | St. Lucy of Syracuse-vowed her life to Christ but her mother arranged a marriage for her. To change her mother's mind, Lucy prayed at the tomb of St. Agatha and her mother's long hemorrhagic illness was cured. Her mother agreed with Lucy's desire to live for God. Her rejected pagan suitor denounced her as a Christian and she was jailed. After tortures that included having her eyes torn out, they tried to burn her alive but the wood would not burn. She was eventually stabbed to death with a dagger. Legend says her eyesight was restored before her heath. Patron against hemorrhages, blindness/eye problems, stained glass workers, and throat infections. | |
| 14 | St John of the Cross-born in poverty. Carmelite brother and priest. Persuaded by St. Teresa of Avila to begin the Discalced or barefoot reform within the Carmelite Order and he took the name of John of the Cross. His reforms revitalized the Order. Great contemplative and spiritual writer. Named Doctor of the Church by Pope Pius XI in 1926. Patron of contemplative life, mystical theology and Spanish poets. "Live in the world as if only God and your soul ere in it; then your heart will never be made captive by any earthly thing." | |
| 21 | St. Peter Canisius-educated in Germany; an excellent student, he received a master's degree by age 19. Became a Jesuit; was a preacher, writer and teacher. Traveled and worked with St. Ignatius of Loyola. During prayers, he received a vision of the Sacred Heart, and even after offered his work to the Sacred Heart of Jesus. Led the Counter-Reformation in German lands. His catechism was translated into 12 languages. Doctor of the Church. Patron of the Catholic press, Germany and writers of catechisms. | |
| 25 | CHRISTMAS DAY- Thank you Jesus. We pray for Peace and joy. | |
| 26 | St. Stephen the Martyr-first Christian Martyr-stoned to death. Deacon and preacher. All we know of him is related in the Acts of the Apostles. Patron of casket makers, deacons, headaches, horses, stone masons and Owensboro, Kentucky. | |
| 27 | St. John the Apostle-son of Zebedee and Salome. Brother of St. James the Great. Disciple of St. John the Baptist and friend of St. Peter. fisherman. Called by Jesus during the first year of His ministry, becoming so close as to be known as the beloved disciple. The only one of the Twelve not to forsake the Savior in the hour of His Passion. Stood at the foot of the cross. Made guardian of Our Lady by Jesus, he took her into his home. Wrote the fourth Gospel, three Epistles and possibly the Book of Revelations. Survived all his fellow apostles. Patron against poison, art dealers, Asia Minor, authors, bookbinders, booksellers, publishers, burns, friendships, Cleveland, Ohio and Taos, New Mexico. | |
| 28 | Holy Innocents- the children slaughtered by Herod when he tried to kill the infant Christ. Patron of babies, children's choir, choir boys and foundlings. To what merits of their own do the children owe this kind of victory? They cannot speak, yet they bear witness to Christ. They cannot use their limbs to engage in battle, yet already they bear off the palm of victory. Bishop St. Quodvultdeus | |
| 29 | St. Thomas a Becket-Soldier and officer. Archdeacon of Canterbury, Chancellor of England, Archbishop of Canterbury. He opposed the King's interference in ecclesiastical matters. Exiled several times and then martyred. Patron of the clergy, Exeter College. "For our sake, Christ offered himself to the Father upon the altar for the cross. He now looks down from heaven on our actions and secret thoughts, and one day he will give each of us the reward his deeds deserve. | |
| 31 | Pope Sylvester I-Pope in the reign of Emperor Constantine I, who built the Lateran and other churches. Sent legates to the First Council of Nicaea, and was involved in the controversy over Arianism. | |
| November | ||
| 3 | St. Martin de Porres-known for his devotion to his work, no matter how menial. Illegitimate and grew up in poverty. Spent part of his youth with a surgeon-barber from whom he learned some medicine and care of the sick. At age 11, he became a servant in the Dominican priory. Placed in charge of the Dominican's infirmary. He took vows as a Dominican brother. Martin established an orphanage and children's hospital for the poor children of the slums. Set up a shelter for the stray cats and dogs and nursed them back to health. Lived in self-imposed austerity, never ate meat, fasted continuously, and spent much time in prayer and meditation. Great devotion to the Eucharist. First black American saint. Patron of African-Americans and bi-racial people, barbers, hairdressers, poor people, public education, health and schools, and television. | |
| 4 | St. Charles Borromeo-Nobility, nephew of Pope Pius IV and a canon lawyer @ 21, cardinal at 22, archbishop of Milan of 24. Suffered with a speech impediment. He fought tirelessly for peace in the wake of the storm caused by Martin Luther. Founded schools for the poor, seminaries for clerics, hospitals for the sick. Instituted children's Sunday school. He did great public and private penance, and worked among the sick and dying during the plague. Patron-against ulcers and intestinal disorders, bishops, catechumens, seminarians, spiritual directors and the diocese of Monterey, California. " We must meditate before, during and after everything we do. The prophet says: "I will pray, and then I will understand." | |
| 10 | St. Leo the Great-strong student, especially in scripture and theology. Priest, Pope and Doctor of the Church. Eloquent writer and homilist. His sermons stressed alms-giving and other social aspects of Christian life, as well as expounding Catholic doctrines-especially that of the Incarnation. Saved Rome when it was invaded by Attila the Hun. "Virtue is nothing without the trial of temptation, for there is no conflict without an enemy, no victory without strife." | |
| 11 | St. Martin of Tours-born to pagan parents. Discovered Christianity and became a catechumen in his early teens. Forced into the army and for some years, he lived more like a monk than a soldier. One day in a very hard winter, during a severe frost, he met at the gate of the city a poor man, almost naked, begging. Martin, cut his cloak in half and gave one half to the beggar. That night Martin in his sleep saw Jesus Christ, dressed in the half of the cloak and heard Jesus say, 'Martin, yet a catechumen, has covered me with this garment'. As a consequence of this vision, he 'flew to be baptized'. He became Bishop of Tours in 372, later moved to a hermit's cell but continued to plead with the emperor for his city, his church and his parishioners. Patron against impoverishment, alcoholism, cavalry, equestrians, wine growers and wine makers. | |
| 13 | St. Frances Xavier Cabrini- born in Italy, the youngest of 13 children. Trained as a teacher. Took religious vows when she was 27. Found the Missionary Sisters of the Sacred Heart of Jesus and was later sent to the United States by Pope Leo XIII to care for the poor. Arrived in New York in 1889. Founded 67 institutions, including schools, hospitals, and orphanages in the U.S., Europe and South America. She became a U.S. citizen and after her death in Chicago she was the first US citizen to be canonized. She is buried in New York, New York. Patron of immigrants, hospital administrators and orphans. "We must pray without tiring, for the salvation of mankind does not depend on material success; nor on sciences that cloud the intellect. Neither does it depend on arms and human industries, but on Jesus alone. | |
| 15 | St. Albert the Great-Dominican Priest. Influential teacher, preacher, administrator. Wide interest in what became known later as the natural sciences-botany, biology, etc. Theological writer and Doctor of the Church. Patron of the archdiocese of Cincinnati, Ohio, medical technicians, natural sciences, scientists and students. " "Do this in remembrance of me." Two things should be noted here. The first is the command that we should use this sacrament, which is indicated when Jesus says, "Do this..." The second is that this sacrament commemorates the Lord's going to death for our sake." | |
| 16 | St. Gertrude the Great- extremely bright student and gentle person. When she became too enamored of philosophy, she received a vision of Christ who reproached her; from then on she studied the Bible and the works of the Church Fathers. Received many visions and mystical instruction, which formed the basis of her writings. Helped spread devotion to the Sacred Heart. Her writings have been greatly praised by St. Teresa and St. Francis de Sales, and continue in print today. Patron of nuns, travelers, West Indies. "O Sacred Heart of Jesus, fountain of eternal life, Your Heart is a glowing furnace of Love. You are my refuge and my sanctuary. | |
| 17 | St. Elizabeth of Hungary-daughter of King Andrew of Hungary. Married Prince Louis of Thuringa @ age 13. In opposition to her family, she built a hospital near her castle and tended to the sick herself. Upon her husbands death, Elizabeth sold all that she had and worked to support her 4 children. Her gifts of bread to the poor, and of a large gift of grain to a famine stricken Germany, let to her patronage of bakers. Patron of bakers, beggars, brides, charitable societies and workers, falsely accused people, hospitals and nursing homes. | |
| 22 | St. Cecilia-vowed her virginity to God, but her parents forced to into marriage. She told her new husband that she was watched over by an angel, but in order to see it, he must be purified. After a visit to then Bishop Urban, he was baptized. When he returned to Cecilia, he found an angel standing by her side, who put upon the head of each a chaplet of roses and lilies. The Acts of Cecilia say, "While the music of her wedding was heard, Cecilia was singing in her heart a hymn of love for Jesus, her true spouse." She was called upon to repudiate her faith-she refused and sentenced to be suffocated, which did not work. A soldier then tried to behead her-she was struck at her neck three times but lingered three days. Patron of musicians/music/musical instrument makers, singers, Albi, France and the archdiocese of Omaha, Nebraska. | |
| 24 |
Martyrs of Vietnam-between the arrival of the first Portuguese missionary in 1533, through the Dominicans and then the Jesuit missions of the 17th century, the politically inspired persecutions of the 19th century, and the Communist-let terrors of the twentieth, there have been many thousands of Catholics and other Christians murdered for their faith in Vietnam. Some were priests, some nuns or brothers, some lay people; some were foreign missionaries, but most were native Vietnamese killed by their own government and people. The government did not care to keep track of the people it murdered, so complete information is not available. They were martyred in various ways and in various locations in Vietnam. |
|
| 30 | St.
Andrew the Apostle-the first apostle. fisherman, brother of
Simon Peter. Follower of John the Baptist. Went through life leading people to Jesus, both before and after the Crucifixion. Missionary in Asia Minor and Greece, and possibly areas in modern Russia and Poland. Martyred on an saltire (x-shaped) cross, he is said to have preached for two days from it. Patron of fishermen, unmarried women, gout and sore throats, Patras, Greece, Russia, Scotland and Amalfi, Italy. |
|
| October | ||
| 1 | St. Therese of Lisieux-the Little Flower. Born to a middle-class French family. Her mother was a lace maker and died of cancer when Therese was 4. Both of her parents have been declared Venerable by the Church. She was cured from an illness at age 8 when a statue of the Blessed Virgin smiled at her. She became a Carmelite nun at the age of 15. She defined her path to God and holiness as "The Little Way," which consisted of love and trust in God. At the direction of her spiritual director, and against her wishes, she dictated her autobiography, Story of a Soul. There have been many miracles attributed to her. She was declared a Doctor of the Church in 1997 by Pope John Paul II. "For me, prayer is a surge of the heart; it is a simple look turned toward heaven, it is a cry of recognition and of love, embracing both trial and joy." Patron of African missions, AIDS suffers, air crews, bodily ills, flower growers/florists, foreign missions, loss of parents, Dioceses of Fairbanks, Alaska, Fresno California, Pueblo Colorado and Russia. | |
| 2 | Guardian Angels-we need our Guardian Angels more than ever in this age of satanic worship even among our youth. Their Feast is a reminder by the Church that we have our won particular Guardian Angel who looks after us, prays for us, intercedes for us with the Father, and stands ready to help us at any moment. We should always be aware of his presence, for he is the one whom God Himself sent to be our guardian and protector all our lives. Let us speak to him and thank him. (Mother M. Angelica, EWTN 1992) | |
| 4 |
St. Francis of Assisi-from a wealthy family. Misspent youth, street brawler and some-time soldier. During an imprisonment, he had a conversion experience, including a reported message from Christ calling him to leave this worldly life. He then began to tale his religion seriously. He took the Gospels as the rule of his life and Jesus Christ as his literal example. He dressed in rough clothes, begged for his sustenance, and preached purity and peace. He visited hospitals, served the sick, preached in the streets. He preached about humility, poverty, simplicity and prayer to everyone, even the birds, whom he thought of as God's special creations. With Papal blessing, he founded the Franciscans. Clare of Assisi became his spiritual student, which led to the founding of the Poor Clares. He composed songs and hymns to God and nature, lived with animals, worked with his hands, cared for lepers, cleaned churches and sent food to thieves. He attempted to express God's brotherhood by truly living by the Gospel. Francis received the stigmata in 1224, which periodically bled during the remaining two years of his life. He is patron against dying alone, against fire, animal welfare societies, environmentalism, families, lace and needle workers. |
|
| 6 | St. Marie Rose Durocher- Born in Canada, the tenth off eleven children, frail of health. Canada was newly independent, wild and untamed, and its bishop had trouble getting European religious to emigrate, so he founded new communities. Marie Rose helped found the Sisters of the Holy Names of Jesus and Mary who served as teachers. She is the patron of bodily ills, loss of parents and sick people. | |
| 9 | St. Denis-first Bishop of Paris. His success roused the ire of local pagans, and he was imprisoned. Later martyred with 2 other saints. Legends have grown up around his torture and death including one that has his body carrying his severed head some distance from his execution site. Patron against frenzy, strife and possessed people and France. | |
| 15 | St. Teresa of Avila-a Spanish noble, she grew up reading the lives of the saints and playing at being a "hermit" in the garden. She struggled to balance a love for God with a need for friends and fun. She was crippled by disease in her youth and was cured after prayer to St. Joseph. Her mother died when Teresa was 12, and she prayed to Our Lady to be her replacement. She entered the Carmelites at 17 -became gravely ill after taking her vows. She began receiving visions there after. She considered her original house too lax in its rule, so she founded a reformed convent of St. John of Avila. Proclaimed Doctor of the church on 9/27/70 by Pope Paul VI. She died on Oct. 4, 1582. Her body is incorrupt. Patron of those with headaches, opposition of Church authorities, people in need of grace, people ridiculed for their piety. "Let nothing trouble you, let nothing make you afraid. All things pass away. God never changes. Patience obtains everything. God alone is enough." | |
| 17 | St.
Margaret Mary Alacoque-healed from a crippling disorder by a
vision of the Blessed Virgin, which prompted her to give her life to
God. She received a revelation from Our Lord in 1675, which included
12 promises to her and to those who practiced a true devotion to His
Sacred Heart, whose crown of thorns represent His sacrifices.
Patron of polio patients and devotees of the Sacred Heart.
St. Ignatius of Antioch-convert from paganism to Christianity. Succeeded Peter as bishop of Antioch, Syria. During the persecution of Trajan, he was ordered taken to Rome to be killed by wild animals. On the way, a journey which took months, he wrote a series of encouraging letters to the churches under his care. First writer to use the term the Catholic Church. Martyred-given to wild beasts. Patron on the Church in eastern Mediterranean and North Africa. "No earthly pleasures, no kingdoms of this world can benefit me in any way. I prefer death in Christ Jesus to power over the farthest limits of the earth. He who died in place of us is the one object of my quest. He who rose for our sakes is my one desire." |
|
| 18 | St. Luke, the Apostle- born a slave of pagan parents. One of the earliest converts. Physician by trade. Traveled with St. Paul and evangelized Greece and Rome with him. Wrote the Gospel According to Luke, much of which was based on the teachings and writings of Paul and his own experiences. Wrote a history of the early Church in the Acts of the Apostles. Patron of artists, bachelors, bookbinders, brewers, butchers, doctors, glass makers, goldsmiths, notaries, painters, and stained glass workers. | |
| 19 | St.
Isaac Jogues-a Jesuit who was a missionary to New France (Canada).
Difficult living conditions and the locals blamed the "Blackrobes" for
any disease, ill luck, or other problems that occurred where they
were. Captured by the Mohawks, tortured for 13 months, teaching the
Faith to all who would listen. He finally escaped but returned to
continue his work with the natives.
St. Paul of the Cross-a pius youth. After receiving a vision, he founded the Passionists to preach about Jesus Crucified. A preacher of such power that hardened soldiers and bandits were seen to weep. His order was approved by Pope Benedict XIV. "It is very good and holy to consider the passion of Our Lord, and to meditate on it, for by this sacred path we reach union with God. In this most holy school we learn true wisdom, for it was there that all the saints learned it." |
|
| 28 | St. Jude Thaddeus-parents were Cleophas, who died a martyr and Mary who stood at the foot of the Cross. Brother of St. James the Lesser; nephew of Mary and Joseph. Writer of canonical letter, preacher, healer and exorcist. Could exorcise pagan idols, which caused the demons to flee and the statues to crumble. His patronage of lost or impossible causes traditionally derives from confusion by many early Christians between Jude and Judas; not understanding the difference between the names, they never prayed for Jude's help, and devotion to him became something of a lost cause. Beaten to death with a club, then beheaded post-mortem. Relics at St. Peter's Rome, at Rheims and Toulouse, France. Patron of desperate situations, forgotten causes, hospital workers, and the diocese of St. Petersburg, Florida. | |
| September | ||
| 3 | St. Gregory the Great -monk, Pope and Doctor of the Church. The first monk to become Pope. From a distinguished family, know for its piety. He received an exceptional education in Rome then became a public official, reaching the highest civil office in Rome. He then resolved to give it all up, sold his possessions, turned his home into a Benedictine monastery, and used his money to build six monasteries in Sicily and one in Rome. He wrote a successful book on the office of a bishop-he regarded bishops as first and foremost physicians of souls whose chief duties were preaching and the enforcement of discipline. He had a great sense of justice and said that people can be won over by meekness and charity. Though one of the most strenuous upholders of the papal dignity, he preferred to call himself by the humble title of Servus servorum Dei--Servant of the servants of God. Patron of choir boys, educators, England, Popes, and students/schoolchildren. | |
| 8 | Birth of Our Blessed Mother | |
| 9 | St. Peter Claver- a farmer's son. Priest. Ministered, physically and spiritually, to slaves when they arrived in Cartegena, converting a reported 300,000 and working for humane treatment on the plantations for 40 years. Patron of African missions, African-Americans, inter-racial justice, diocese of Lake Charles, Louisiana and Shreveport, Louisiana, and slavery. "We must speak to them with our hands by giving, before we try to speak to them with our lips." | |
| 13 | St. John Chrysostom-monk, bishop and Doctor of the Church. Preacher and priest for a dozen years in Syria, where he developed a stomach ailment that troubled him the rest of his life. Exceptional preacher (golden mouthed) that were always on point, they explained the Scriptures with clarity and sometimes went on for hours. Bishop of Constantinople, he criticized the rich for not sharing their wealth, fought to reform the clergy, prevented the sale of ecclesiastical offices, called for fidelity in marriage, encouraged practices of justice and charity. Patron of orators/speakers, epileptics, Constantinople. | |
| 14 | Exaltation of the Holy Cross- Christ offered His sacrifice on the cross for the expiation of the sins of the multitude. Christ "is our salvation, our life, and our resurrection." | |
| 17 | St. Robert Bellarmine-Bishop and Doctor of the Church. Suffered assorted health problems all his life. Made a Cardinal and lived an austere life in Rome, giving most of his money to the poor. Wrote exhaustive against heresies of the day. , spiritual father of St. Aloysius Gonzaga, helped St. Francis de Sales obtain formal approval of the Visitation Order, defender of the faith against Protestants, wrote 2 catechisms, theological advisor to Popes Clement VIII and Paul V. Patron of canon lawyers, catechists, and the archdiocese of Cincinnati, Ohio. | |
| 18 | St. Januarius-bishop. Arrested while visiting imprisoned deacons. Condemned to be torn to pieces by wild beasts. In the amphitheater, none of the animals touched him or his companions. They were then beheaded. His blood was preserved and sealed in a vial. It becomes liquid on his feast day and on the first Sunday of May (the day of the transferal of his relics to Naples) and on December 16 (the anniversary of Naples' deliverance from Vesuvius through the intercession of the saint.) | |
| 21 | St. Matthew, the Apostle- a Roman tax collector, a position equated with collaboration with the enemy by those from whom he collected taxes. He preached among the Jews for 15 years. Patron of accountants, bankers, bookkeepers, custom officers, financial officers, security persons, stock brokers, and tax collectors | |
| 27 | St. Vincent de Paul-peasant, highly intelligent-priest at the age of 20. In Paris he started organizations to help the poor, nursed the sick, and found jobs for the unemployed. Worked always for the poor, the enslaved, the abandoned, and the ignored. Patron of charitable societies and workers, hospital workers, lepers, lMadagascar, diocese of Richmond, Virginia, volunteers. "The most powerful weapon to conquer the devil is humility. For, as he does not know at all how to employ it, neither does he know how to defend himself from it." | |
| 29 | St.
Michael the Archangel-leader of the army of God during the Lucifer
uprising. Devotion is common to Muslims, Christians and Jews with
writings about him in all three cultures. Considered the Guardian
angel of Israel. Patron against temptations, ambulance drivers and
EMT's, artists, danger at sea, dying people, police officers,
soldiers, radiologists, and grocers.
St. Gabriel the Archangel-messenger of God. Appeared to the prophet Daniel to explain the prophet's visions relating to the Messiah; to Zachary in the temple to announce the coming of Zachary's son, John the Baptist and to strike Zachary mute for his disbelief; to Mary to let her know she'd been selected to bear the Saviour. Patron of broadcasters, clergy, telecommunications workers, diplomats, messengers, postal services/workers, Archdiocese of Seattle, Washington, stamp collectors, television and television workers. |
|
| 30 | St. Jerome-born to a rich pagan family and led a misspent youth. Lawyer, studied theology and had a true conversion. Commissioned by Pope Damasus to revise the Latin text of the bible-which is the Vulgate translation. Lived the last 34 years in the HOly Land as a semi-recluse. Patron of archeologists, Bible scholars, librarian, libraries, students and translators. "What Jerome is ignorant of, no man has ever known" St. Augustine. | |
| August | ||
| 1 | Alphonsus Maria De Liguori-One of the leading lawyers in Naples, he never attended court without having attended Mass first. Priest, preacher and missionary and Bishop. Founded the Congregation of the Most Holy Redeemer (Liguorians or Redemptorists) Afflicted with severe rheumatism, he often could barely move nor raise his chin from his chest. Vowed never to waste a moment of his life, and lived that way for over 90 years. A Doctor of the Church. Patron of confessors, final perseverance, theologians, and vocations. | |
| 8 | St. Dominic de Guzman-Priest and visionary, lifelong apostolate among heretics, especially Albigensians. Founded the Order of Friars Preachers (Dominicans) in 1215, a group who live a simple, austere life, and an order of nuns dedicated to the care of young girls. Legend says he received a vision from Our Lady who showed him a wreath of roses, and told him to say the rosary daily, and teach it to all who would listen. Dominic is often credited with the invention of the rosary, but it predates him. Patron of astronomers, astronomy, Dominican Republic, falsely accused people and scientists. | |
| 16 | St. Stephen of Hungary- He was born a pagan but baptized with his father at age 10. He was an evangelizer, king, organized dioceses, and founded monasteries. Patron of bricklayers, death of children, Hungary, kings, masons, and stonecutters. | |
| 23 | St. Rose of Lima-born in Lima, Peru-she was such a beautiful baby that her impoverished family considered her their treasure and called her Rose. She was devoted to her parents and obeyed them in everything they asked of her, except for one: she refused to marry because she wanted to give herself to God. People were so interested in her beauty so she rubbed pepper on her face until her skin was blistered, dressed in rough clothing and cut off her hair so no one would be tempted by her and so she would not succumb to vanity. She eventually moved to a hermitage where she fasted and prayed but she was plagued by sinful thoughts and had a natural tendency to loneliness and sadness. But she cheerfully offered her suffering to the Lord and was re3warded with ecstasies of peace and joy. | |
| 27 | St. Monica-Mother of St. Augustine of Hippo, whose writings about her are the primary source of our information. A Christian from birth, she was given in marriage to a bad-tempered, adulterous pagan. Her mother-in-law, who taunted her and told lies about her, lived with them. She prayed constantly for her husband and his mothers conversion (they both converted), and her son's conversion (who converted after a wild life.) She was a reformed alcoholic and practiced good works, giving to the poor and helping the sick while still caring for her family. Patron of abuse victims, alcoholics, difficult marriages, married women, and mothers. | |
| 28 | St Augustine of Hippo-trained in Christianity, he lost his faith in his youth and led a wild life. He lived with a woman from the age of 15 through 30 and fathered one son. He was converted and baptized by St. Ambrose of Milan. On the death of his mother, he sold his property, gave the proceeds to the poor, and founded a monastery. He was a monk, priest, Bishop-founded religious communities. Patron of brewers, printers, diocese of Bridgeprot, Conn. and Kalamazoo, Michigan, Superior, Wisconsin and Tucson, Arizona. "Our hearts were made for You, O Lord, and they are restless until they rest in you." | |
| July | ||
| 11 | St. Benedict-roman nobility. Twin brother of St. Scholastica. Dismayed by the lack of discipline and the lackadasical attitude of his fellow students. Lived as a hermit for 3 years then his virtues caused an abbey to request him to lead them. He eventually established 12 monasteries. A summation of the Benedictine Rule: "Pray and work." Patron of farm workers, people in religious orders, schoolchildren. Girded with a faith, and the performance of good works, let us follow in Christ's path by the guidance of the Gospel; then we shall deserve to see him "who has called us into His kingdom." | |
| 13 | St. Henry II-founded schools, quelled rebellions, protected the frontiers, worked to establish a stable peace in Europe, and reformed the Church while respecting its independence. A prayerful man and generous to the poor. Patron of Benedictine Oblates, childless people, disabled people, and people rejected by religious orders. | |
| 22 | Mary Magdalen-friend and follower of Jesus. Filled with sorrow over her sin, she anointed Christ, washed His feet with her hair. Exorcised by Him. and was visited by the Risen Christ. Patron of contemplative life, hairdressers, penitent sinners, people ridiculed for their piety, and sexual temptation. "Whoever perseveres to the end will be saved." | |
| 22-28 | World Youth Day "You are the salt of the earth. You are the light of the world: (Mt 5:13-14) | |
| 23 | St. Bridget of Sweden-Bridget began receiving visions, most of the Crucifixion, at age seven. At age thirteen, she wed in an arranged marriage and mothered eight children including St. Catherine of Sweden. When her husband died she pursued a religious life and eventually renounced her title of princess. She recorded the revelations given her in her visions, and these became very popular in the Middle Ages. She founded the Order of the Most Holy Savior (Bridgettines) which survives today. she encouraged all who would listen to meditate on the Passion, and of Jesus Crucified. Patron of Europe, Sweden and widows. "Blessed are you and praiseworthy and glorious for ever, my Lord Jesus." | |
| 25 | St. James the Greater-brother of St. John the Apostle. He left everything when Christ called him to be a fisher of men. His work in Spain, and the housing of his relics there, led to his patronage of the country and all things Spanish. Also patron of the parish in Medjugorje, arthritis sufferers, druggists, horsemen, laborers and veterinarians. | |
| 26 | Sts. Anne and Joachim-parents of Our Lady."The conduct of your life pleased God and was worthy of your daughter. For by the chaste and holy life you led together, you have fashioned a jewel of virginity. From a sermon by Bishop St. John Damascene | |
| 29 |
St. Martha-sister of Saints Lazarus and Mary of Bethany. Friend of Jesus, hostess to Him in her house. Patron of cooks, dietitians, homemakers, hotel-keepers, laundry workers and single laywomen. |
|
| 30 | St. Leopold Mandic --born in Hercegovia-Croatia. Always of frail health he was able to became a Capuchin at the age of 16. He was in prison for 2 years in Italy during WWI. On his return to Padua, he heard confessions 12-15 hours every day for 40 years. The only things in his room was a crucifix and an image of Our Lady, with a small vase of fresh flowers in it. He'd tell the sick and suffering to go to Our Lady and to say, "Blessed Lady, thy servant, Fr. Leopold, has sent me; grant me the favor I ask! "He himself went to confession every day so that he might be strengthened for his penitents. | |
| 31 | St. Ignatius of Loyola-wounded in the leg by a cannon at the siege of Pampeluna, an injury that left him partially crippled for life. During his recuperation the only books he had access to were The Golden Legend (a collection of lives of the saints), and the Life of Christ. These books and the time spent in contemplation, changed him. He worked in the Holy Land to convert Muslims. His meditations, prayers, visions and insights led to forming the Constitutions of the Society of Jesus (Jesuits) in 1534. "Do not let any occasion of gaining merit pass without taking care to draw some spiritual profit from it; as, for example, from a sharp word which someone may say to you; from an act of obedience imposed against your will; from an opportunity which may occur to humble yourself, or to practice charity, sweetness, and patience." | |
| JUNE 1 | Justin, Marytr--converted at age 30 by reading the Scriptures and witnessing the heroism and faith of martyrs. Used his philosophical skills to dispute with pagans and explain the faith. Patron of apologists, lecturers, philosophers. | |
| 5 | St. Boniface | |
| 6 | St. Norbert | |
| 8 | Pentecost Sunday--the apostles and the Blessed Virgin were in a closed room praying for the fulfillment of the promise of Jesus. Suddenly, there came a sound from Heaven as of a mighty wind. At the same time, there appeared tongues of fire which, separating, rested on the head of each of them, and all were filled with the Holy Ghost. The Apostles have received the strength of the Holy Spirit, and while the Synagogue commemorates the promulgation of the Old Law, they promulgate in the Name of God the New Law, of which Christ is the Author. (The Word of God) | |
| 11 | St. Barnabas, apostle | |
| 13 | St. Anthony of Padua--he entered the monastery at age 15, changed orders, and went to Morocco to spread the Gospel. After an illness, he headed back to Portugal but his ship was blown off course and he landed in Italy instead. He lead a quiet life until he was asked to stand in as a speaker at an ordination. His gift for preaching was revealed and he often held Mass outdoor as no church was big enough to hold the crowds. His sermons were so powerful that they inspired enemies to reconcile, thieves to confess and heretics to convert. Legend has it that on one time Anthony's favorite prayer book was stolen by a novice monk who was running away. Anthony prayed that the book be found and an apparition then appeared before the novice, demanding the book's immediate return. Anthony has been the "Finder of Lost Things" since. | |
| 15 | Most Holy Trinity | |
| 16 | Canonization of Padre Pio-2002-set the Holy Cross at the center of his life and his apostolate. It was his strength, his wisdom, and his glory. Turned on by the love of God and by the love of neighbor, Padre Pio lived in the fullness of his vocation to contribute to the redemption of man according to the special mission that characterized all his life. He effected this program with three means: through the direction of the souls, through the sacramental reconciliation of sinners, and through the celebration of the Holy Mass. "On this earth everyone has his cross. But we must act in such a way that we not be the bad, but the good thief." "Always remain close to the Catholic Church, because it alone can give you true peace, since it alone possesses Jesus in the Blessed Sacrament, the true Prince of Peace." | |
| 22 | Most Holy Body & Blood of Christ | |
| 24 | John the Baptist--cousin of Jesus Christ. Priest of the order of Abia. Prophet. He preached a message of repentance converting many and preparing the way for the coming of Jesus. Baptized Christ, after which he stepped away and told his disciples to follow Jesus. Died a victim of the vengeance of a jealous woman, Herodias. Patron of baptism, converts, epilepsy, Knights of Malta, monastic life, motorways and tailors. | |
| 25 | 22st Anniversary of the Apparitions of Our Lady, Queen of Peace, in Medjugoreje. | |
| 27 | Most Sacred Heart of Jesus | |
| 28 | Immaculate Heart of Mary | |
| 29 | SS Peter and Paul --apostles. Co-founders of the Church. | |
| May | ||
| 3 | SS Phillip & James, apostles | |
| 14 | St. Matthias, apostle | |
| 15 | St. Isidore the Farmer-a pious layman who would pray for long periods while guiding his plow. He often spent holidays on pilgrimage to local shrines. There are legends about angels assisting him in his farm labors. He was caring toward animals and generous to the poor. His wife, Maria de la Cabeza, is also a saint. He is patron of Madrid, of farmers and of rural communities. | |
| 20 | St. Bernardine of Siena | |
| 26 | St. Philip Neri | |
| 29 | Ascension of the Lord--the Ascension is not only Christ's leaving earth; it is His entering heaven to take possession of the complete glory He merited on the cross. He entered heaven in triumph, for His work had been completed. Heaven was now His. Since we have become His brothers, co-heirs with Him, Heaven is ours, too. We can rejoice, therefore, for He is holding our share of the inheritance for us. A place is waiting for us in our heavenly home. (The Life of Christ) | |
| 31 | The Visitation of the Virgin Mary to Elizabeth--In the life of Mary her love for God overflowed into a love for men. God was her only love. But it included God's creatures also. Service to her cousin Elizabeth was a manifestation of Mary's love for God. We cannot claim to love God unless that love extends also to God's creatures, our fellow men. Does our helpfulness to our friends and acquaintances who are in trouble reflect the same love that Mary showed in the Visitation? | |
| April | ||
| 2 | Francis of Paola--as a teenager he became a hermit. and later He the Franciscan Order of Minim Friars. He was a prophet, miracle worker, defender of the poor and oppressed. Because so many of his miracles were connected with the sea-one describes how he sailed across the Straits of Messina on his cloak-he was declared the patron saint of seafarers. "Take pains to refrain from sharp words. Pardon one another so that later on you will not remember the injury. The recollection of an injury is itself wrong. It adds to our anger, nurtures our sins and hates what is good. It is a rusty arrow and poison for the soul. It puts all virtue to flight. | |
| 4 | Isidore of Seville-Son of nobility. Initially a poor student, he gave the problem over to God and became one of the most learned men of his time. As Archbishop of Seville, he required seminaries in every diocese, wrote a rule for religious orders. Prolific writer including a dictionary, and an encyclopedia. Proclaimed Doctor of the Church by Pope Benedict XIV in 1722. Patron of computer technicians/users, the Internet and schoolchildren. Prayer purifies us, reading instructs us. Both are good when both are possible. Otherwise prayer is better than reading. | |
| 7 | Divine Mercy Sunday | |
| 8 | Annunciation of the Lord | |
| 16 | Bernadette of Lourdes-the oldest of six children. She was an ailing and undersized child who suffered from asthma -was considered slow and backward by many people. A shepherdess. In 1858, at age 14, she experienced 18 visions of the Virgin Mary between February 11 and July 16. She joined a convent in 1866, died in 1879 and was canonized not because of the many visions she had seen, but for the faith and humility that had characterized her life. Patron of illness, poverty, and shepherds. | |
| 25 | St Mark, the Evangelist-author of the earliest canonical Gospel. Traveled with Saint Peter, St. Paul and his cousin St. Barnabas. Evangelized in Alexandria, established the Church there, and founded the first famous Christian School. Patron: attorneys, captives/imprisoned people, insect bites, and stained glass workers. | |
| 26 | Our Lady of Good Counsel-the picture of Our Lady, appeared at Genazzano (25 miles SE of Rome). The icon was observed to hang suspended in the air without the slightest apparent support. Pilgrim bands began to pour in, while miracles in ever-increasing numbers were wrought, and continue to be, at the shrine. On July 2, 1753 Benedict XIV approved of the Pious Union of Our Lady of Good Counsel for the faithful at large, and himself enrolled at its pioneer member; Pius IX was a member, and also Leo XIII. Patron of Albania, enlightenment. | |
| 29 | St. Catherine of Siena-at the age of 6 she had a vision in which Jesus appeared and blessed her. He parents wanted her to marry, but she became a Dominican tertiary. Received a vision in which she was in a mystical marriage with Christ, and the Infant Christ presented her with a wedding ring. She died on April 29, 1380 of a mysterious and painful illness that came on without notice, and was never properly diagnosed. Patron-against fire, firefighters, bodily ills, Europe, nurses, people ridiculed for their piety, and sexual temptation. | |
| March | ||
| 4 | St. Casimir of Poland-15th century Polish prince and Grand Duke of Lithuania. Lived a highly disciplined, sever life, spending a great part of the night in prayer, dedicating himself to lifelong celibacy. He had a great devotion to Mary, supported the poor, and lived a virtuous life amid the dissolute court. He actively took up the cause of the needy and unfortunate and embraced it as his own. He was never haughty in his conversation or dealings with anyone, no matter how humble or obscure. Patronage-bachelors, kings/princes, Lithuania and Poland. | |
| 8 |
St. John of God-Shepard. Spent a wild youth. Had a brief period of insanity. In his 40's, he began caring for the sick, poor, homeless and unwanted and converted both his patients and those who saw him work with them. His motto: "Labor without stopping. Do all the good works you can while you still have the time." Patronage-alcoholics/alcoholism, booksellers, hospitals/hospital workers, heart patients, sick people/sickness. |
|
| 17 | St. Patrick- during the Middle Ages, Ireland became known as the Land of Saints, and during the Dark Ages its monasteries were the great repositories of learning in Europe, all a consequence of St. Patrick's ministry. Patronage-against snakes and fear of snakes, excluded people and engineers. | |
| 19 | St. Joseph- earthly spouse of the Blessed Virgin Mary and foster father of Jesus. Noted for his willingness to immediately do what God told him. Patronage-against doubt/hesitation, Croatian people, immigrants, fathers/families, working people, carpenters, happy death, social justice, travelers, and the Universal Church. | |
| 24 | Passion Sunday/Palm Sunday | |
| 25 | The Annunciation of the Lord-for centuries men had been waiting for the Incarnation. This event was the central event of all history. Yet God made its accomplishment depend upon the consent of Mary. He did not order her to become the mother of God; He asked her. Similarly, in dealing with us, God usually asks. He orders us to obey His and His Church's commandments, but He asks much more than that. Will we agree like Mary, or will we do only what is ordered? | |
| 31 | Easter Sunday | |
| February | ||
| 2 | Presentation of Our Lord-Simeon was "just and devout, looking for the consolation of Israel." Anna was a woman who "never left the temple, with fasting and prayers worshipping night and day." Others were more worldly, more "successful," more important, better known. These two were simple, humble, unpretentious. But they, rather than the high priest and the officials, had the privilege of welcoming Christ. Whom do we imitate, the simple and humble Simeon and Anna, or the more worldly, the more important? | |
| 5 | St. Agatha-young, beautiful and rich, Agatha lived a life consecrated to God. She rejected the advances of the magistrate, was beaten, imprisoned, tortured, her breast were crushed and cut off. She was then rolled on live coals and was near death when an earthquake struck. Agatha thanked God for an end to her pain and died. While in prison she said "Lord, my creator, you have protected me since I was in the cradle. You have taken me from the love of the world and given me patience to suffer. Now receive my spirit." Patron-breast cancer, fire prevention, nurses, single laywomen, and natural disasters. | |
| 11 | Our Lady of Lourdes-Prayer....Oh
ever Immaculate Virgin, Mother of Mercy, Health of the Sick, Refuge of
Sinners, Comfortess of the Afflicted, you know my wants, my troubles,
my sufferings. Look upon me with mercy. When you appeared in the
grotto of Lourdes, you made it a privileged sanctuary where you
dispense your favors, and where many suffers have obtained the cure of
their infirmities, both spiritual and corporal. I come, therefore,
with unbounded confidence to implore your maternal intercession. My
loving Mother, obtain my request. I will try to imitate your virtues
so that I may one day share your company and bless you in eternity.
Amen. World Day of the Sick |
|
| 13 | Ash Wednesday-- Fast and Abstinence | |
| 22 | The Chair of St. Peter, Apostle-Renamed Peter (rock) by Jesus to indicate that Peter would be the rock-like foundation on which the Church would be built. "Upon this rock I will build my Church, and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it." Patron-papacy, Universal Church, watch/clock makers, bakers, stone masons, fever, feet problems. | |
| January 1 | Mary, Mother of God | |
| 4 | St. Elizabeth Ann Seton--pray for religious vocations | |
| 5 | St. John Neumann | |
| 6 | Epiphany National Vocations Awareness Week |
|
| 7 | St. Raymond of Penafort-famed for his preaching and as a confessor. With St. Thomas Aquinas, he wrote a booklet to explain the truths of faith in a way nonbelievers could understand. Patron of lawyers, medical record librarians. "May the God of love and peace set your hearts at rest and speed you on your journey; may He meanwhile shelter you from disturbance by others in the hidden recesses of His love, until he brings you at last into that place of complete plenitude where you will repose for ever in the vision of peace, in the security of trust, and in the restful enjoyment of his riches." | |
| 13 | Baptism of the Lord-At a word from Christ, John acted. He did not wait or demand a divine sign before carrying out what seemed to be the will of God. His prompt obedience was immediately rewarded-he was permitted to behold God's public acclaim of Christ as His Son. Do we procrastinate in our service of God, excusing ourselves that we have had no positive sign of what He wants us to do? | |
| 17 | St. Anthony, Abbot--he gave himself up to the ascetic life at the age of 20, following the death of his parents. "When, therefore, the demons come by night to you and wish to tell the future, or say 'We are the angels', give no heed, for they lie....But if they shamelessly stand their ground, capering and change their forms of appearance, fear them not, nor shrink, nor heed them as though they were good spirits. For the presence either of the good or evil by the help of God can easily be distinguished. The vision of the holy ones is not fraught with distraction: 'For they will not strive, nor cry, nor shall anyone hear their voice' (Matthew 12:19; Isaiah 42:2). But it comes quietly and gently that an immediate joy, gladness, and courage arise in the soul. For the Lord who is our joy is with them, and the power of God the Father." Patron-skin diseases, amputees, epileptics, butchers. | |
| 24 | St. Francis De Sales--the Gentleman Saint. Born of a wealthy family-became a lawyer. Received a message telling him to "Leave all and follow Me." Doctor of the Church. Patron of authors, Catholic press, deafness, teachers. "Let us run to Mary, and, as her little children, cast ourselves into her arms with a perfect confidence." | |
| 25 | Conversion of St. Paul--"I assure you, brother, the gospel I proclaimed to you is no mere human invention. I did not receive it from any man nor was I schooled in it. It came by revelation from Jesus Christ". (Gal 1:11) Pray for renewed zeal for the Gospel. | |
| 28 | St. Thomas Aquinas-studied under St. Albert the Great, taught theology, won his doctorate, avid writer on bible-related works. "Grant me, O Lord my God, a mind to know you, a heart to seek you, wisdom to find you, conduct pleasing to you, faithful perseverance in waiting for you, and a hope of finally embracing you." Patron- Catholic academies, students, against storms/lightning. | |
| 31 | St. John Bosco-worked as a tailor, baker, shoemaker, and carpenter while attending college and the seminary. Priest and teacher. Worked with youth, finding places where they could meet, play and pray. "Fly from bad companions as from the bite of a poisonous snake. If you keep good companions, I can assure you that you will one day rejoice with the blessed in Heaven; whereas if you keep with those who are bad, you will become bad yourself, and you will be in danger of losing your soul." Patron-apprentices, boys, young people. "The young are my very greatest hope. But many youths seek happiness in just those places where one loses it. (Mary in Medjugorje) | |