Quote/s of the Day – 18 May – Easter IV – James 1:17-21 – John 16:5-14 – Scripture search here: https://www.drbo.org/
“If I go not, the Paraclete will not come to you but if I go, I will send Him to you. ”
John16:7
“This is the order of our faith, the foundation of the edifice and the support of our conduct – God, the Father, uncreated, uncontainable, invisible, One God, the Creator of all – this is the first article of our faith. And the second article – the Word of God, the Son of God, Christ Jesus our Lord, Who was revealed by the Prophets according to the character of their prophecy and according to the nature of the economies of the Father, by Whom all things were made and Who, in the last times, to recapitulate all things, became a Man amongst men, visible and palpable, in order to abolish death, to demonstrate life and to effect communion between God and man. And the third article – the Holy Ghost, through Whom the Prophets prophesied and the Patriarchs learnt the things of God and the righteous, were led in the path of righteousness and Who, in the last times, was poured out in a new fashion upon the human race, renewing man, throughout the world, to God.”
St Irenaeus (130-202) Martyr, Father of the Church
“He pours light into our minds, arouses our desire and gives us strength… As the soul is the life of the body, so the Holy Ghost is the life of our souls.”
St Peter Damian (1007-1072) Bishop, Father and Doctor of the Church
“The whole Trinity has marked mankind with Its likeness. With the memory, it resembles the Father; with the understanding, it resembles the Son; by love, it resembles the Holy Ghost … ”
St Anthony of Padua (1195-1231) Evangelical Doctor of the Church
One Minute Reflection – 18 May – “The Month of the Blessed Virgin Mary” – Easter IV – St Venantius (Died c 250) Martyr – James 1:17-21 – John 16:5-14 – Scripture search here: https://www.drbo.org/
“But I tell you the truth, it is expedient to you that I go; for if I go not, the Paraclete will not come to you but if I go, I will send Him to you.” – John16:7
REFLECTION – “The Holy Ghost is the Wheat which comforts us along the road to the fatherland, the Wine which gives us joy in tribulation, the Oil which sweetens life’s sorrows. This threefold support, was needed by the Apostles who had to go out to preach through the whole world. This is why Jesus sends the Holy Ghost to them. They are filled with Him – filled, so that no impure spirits might gain entrance into them; when a container is completely full, nothing else can enter into it.
The Holy Ghost “will teach you.” (Jn 16:13) so that you can know; He will prompt you. so that you can will. He gives both knowledge and will add to this our “ability,” according to the measure of our strength and we shall be temples of the Holy Ghost (1 Cor 6,:9).” – St Anthony of Padua (1195-1231) Franciscan, Doctor of the Church – Sermons
PRAYER – O God, Who made this day holy by the triumph of blessed Venantius, Thy Martyr, listen to the prayers of Thy people and grant that we, who honour his noble deeds, may imitate the constancy of his faith. Through the same Jesus Christ, Thy Son our Lord, Who lives and reigns with Thee, in the unity of the Holy Ghost, God, world without end. Amen (Collect).
Thou art inviolate, undefiled and chaste, O Mary. Thou has become the resplendent Gate of Heaven, O loving and dearest Mother of Christ, Accept our devout acclamations in praise of thee. That our minds and bodies may be pure, Devoted hearts and lips now implore thee. Through thy sweet sounding prayers, Gain us pardon forever. O kind one, who alone didst remain inviolate. Amen
The Hymn Inviolata has been claimed by the Carmelite Order, as a Traditional Hymn originating within their ranks. The Hymn is also used by Dominican Friars in the chanting of Compline. Its origins trace to the 11th Century. It appears in Hymnals from 1860 to 1920.
Saint of the Day – 18 May – St Felix (Died c304) Bishop of Spoleto in Italy, Martyr. Martyred in the persecutions of Diocletian in Salona, Dalmatia. Also known as – Felix of Epetium, of Martana, of Spalato, of Spello, of Split, of Stobrec, Felice…
The Roman Martyrology reads today: “At Spoleto, St Felix, a Bishop, who obtained the Palm of Martyrdom under the Emperors Diocletian and Maximian.”
The “Prologus Paschae” written in 395, tells of Bishop Felix’s Martyrdom in Salona, not in Spoleto, during the persecution of Diocletian and Maximian. Here we read: “During the consulship of Diocletian and Maximian, … the Christians suffered the sixth persecution.”
The testimony of the Prologus is, at this point, confirmed by contemporary documents and can be accepted without fear, with the exception of the consular date which evidently must be brought back to at least the year 303, the beginning of the persecution.
Felix’s cult is still alive in Split, the ancient Salona, where, in the Franciscan Church his Relics are preserved and he has been celebrated since time immemorial on 18 May. On the same day the Saint is honoured in Stobrec, formerly Epetium, a few miles from Split, in the vicinity of which the ruins of a Church dedicated to him have been brought to light. Stobrec too, considers him one of its ancient Bishops but wrongly, because the Town was never an Episcopal Seat.
In the Martyrology of the 9th Century, on 18th May we find this eulogy: “On the same day, Saint Felix, Bishop, who obtained the Palm of Martyrdom at the City of Spelle, under the Emperor Maximian.” The same name and the same day of veneration (18 May) as Felice di Spalato. This and other circumstances have led the best scholars, to conclude that Felice di Spello is, in reality, nothing more than the namesake of Spalato and it is probable that the assonance of the words had, as has occurred in many other cases, its share of blame in the genesis of the error. Certainly it was only because of the similarity that Baronio (he himself confesses it) created Felice the Bishop of Spoleto.
In addition to Epetium, Spello and Spoleto, Felice was considered the Bishop of Martana, another Diocese which never existed, where he is celebrated on 30 October. The passio of Felice of Martana is identical, except for the topographical notes, to that of Felice of Spello. Furthermore, since Martana is located in the territory of Todi, the historians of the latter City, since Felice could not have been the Bishop of Martana, assigned him the Seat of Todi.
Martyrs of Ancyra – 8 Saints: Seven nuns Martyred in the persecutions of Diocletian and the innkeeper who was executed for giving them a Christian burial: Alexandria, Claudia, Euphrasia, Julitta, Matrona, Phaina, Thecusa and Theodatus. c.304 in Ancyra, Galatia (in modern Turkey).
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Thought for the Day – 17 May – The Imitation of the Blessed Virgin Mary By Thomas à Kempis (1380-1471)
Extracts from The Imitation of the Blessed Virgin Mary By Thomas à Kempis CRSA (1380-1471) Imprimatur 17 February 1947
Chapter VI OF THE POWER AND ABILITIES OF MARY
i. Mary is faithful in her promises and generous in her gifts to her pious servants. She enjoys the veneration of Angels but yet, she accepts the attentions of men. She tenderly sheds tears with the unhappy; she is compassionate with the sorrows of those who suffer; she comes to give assistance in the struggles of those who are tempted; she turns herself ever, to those who pray to her. All those who go with confidence and devotion to seek refuge with her and call upon her name, find in her abundance and consolation. A Queen, she commands the Angels in Heaven and can send them to succour the needy. In the same way, she has empire everywhere over the demons and can prevent them from harming her servants. The demons dread the Queen of Heaven and her name alone suffices to disperse them. They tremble before the awesome and holy name of Mary, before the name which causes joy to Christians, they no longer dare to show themselves before us or to again try their insidious assaults. As soon as they hear this holy name resound, they tremble, they prostrate, they flee as before a burst of thunder from the sky. And the more often this name is pronounced by us, the more it is invoked devotedly and piously, the more quickly the demons fly from us.
ii. It is for us a duty, sacred above all, at every moment, that of loving the holy name of Mary. It ought to be, a cult, for all the faithful; for Religious, a meditation; for people in the world, a devotion; for preachers, a veneration; for those who suffer, a consolation; in all dangers, a protection. Mary is truly, very near to God; very dear to His Beloved Son, Jesus. All powerful in her intercession, in obtaining pardon and succour for the unfortunate sons of Adam. In all the circumstances of life, she intervenes with her Son to obtain mercy for the culpable. She, too, like Jesus Himself, is always heard, because of the honour which is due to her. Thus, therefore, let every pious Christian hurry to seek refuge near Mary, if he wishes to escape from the shipwrecks of the world and to arrive at the port of eternal salvation. We may indeed expect much from her because, although placed above us all, she loves to come to the least of us, happy to be called Advocate of the unfortunate and more happy still, mother of orphans.
iii. Prayer: O Mary, Gentle Mother, My Cherished Queen
O Mary, gentle Mother, beloved Mother above all, thou art the star on the horizon of the sea, the star which smiles on the lost mariner, the star which leads to the haven of peace. Let it rise to thee, O Mary, my simple prayer. May the flame of my desire arise toward thee, my cherished Queen. Defend my cause at the tribunal of thy Son, for no-one is found innocent before Him.
(By Thomas à Kempis (1380-1471) Sermon to the Novices, Chapter XXIII)
Translated By: Fr & Dr Célestin Albin de Cigala (1865-1928) Faculty of Paris (1947) Doctor of Theology and Philosophy
Quote/s of the Day – 17 May – The Memorial of St Paschal Baylon OFM (1540-1592) Confessor, “Seraph of the Eucharist,” “Saint of the Blessed Sacrament,” “Servant of the Blessed Sacrament.” Franciscan Lay Brother.
“Meditate well on this – Seek God above all things! It is right for you to seek God, before and above, everything else because the Majesty of God wishes you to receive what you ask for. This will also make you more ready to serve God and will enable you to love Him more perfectly.”
One Minute Reflection – 17 May – “The Month of the Blessed Virgin Mary” – St Paschal Baylon OFM (1540-1592) Confessor – Sirach 31:8-11 – Luke 12:35-40 – Scripture search here: https://www.drbo.org/
“Stay dressed for action and keep your lamps burning and be like men who are waiting for their master to come home from the wedding feast, so that they may open the door to him at once when he comes and knocks.” – Luke 12:35-36
REFLECTION – “God, the Word, stirs up the lazy and arouses the sleeper. For indeed, someone who comes knocking at the door is always wanting to come in. But it depends on us, if He does not always enter, or always remain. May your door be open to Him Who comes; open your soul, enlarge your spiritual capacities, that you may discover the riches of simplicity, the treasures of peace and sweetness of grace. Expand your heart; run to meet the Sun of that Eternal Light that “enlightens everyone” (Jn 1,9). It is certain that this true Light shines for all but, if anyone shuts their windows, then they themselves shut themselves off from this Eternal Light.
So, even Christ remains outside, if you shut the door of your soul. It is true that He could enter but He does not want to use force, He does not put those who refuse under pressure. Descended from the Virgin, born from her womb, He shines throughout the universe to give Light to all. Those who long to receive the Light which shines with an everlasting brightness, open up to Him. No night comes to intervene. Indeed, the sun we see each day gives way to night’s darkness but the Sun of Justice (Mal 3:20) knows no setting for Wisdom is not overcome by evil.” – St Ambrose (340-397) Bishop of Milan and Father and Doctor of the Church – 12th Sermon on Psalm 118
PRAYER – O God, Who endowed blessed Paschal, Your Confessor, with a wondrous love for the Sacred Mysteries of Your Body and Blood, mercifully grant that we may be found worthy to share in the same spiritual abundance, which he received in this Divine Banquet. Who lives and reigns with God the Father, in the unity of the Holy Ghost, God, world without end. Amen (Collect).
Our Morning Offering – 17 May – “The Month of the Blessed Virgin Mary”
I’ll Sing a Hymn to Mary By Father John Wyse (1825-1898) Irish Priest and Hymn writer
I’ll sing a hymn to Mary, The Mother of my God, The Virgin of all virgins, Of David’s royal blood. O teach me, Holy Mary, A loving song to frame, When wicked men blaspheme thee, To love and bless thy name.
O Lily of the Valley, O Mystic Rose, what tree, Or flower, e’en the fairest, Is half so fair as thee? O let me, tho’ so lowly Recite my Mother’s fame. When wicked men blaspheme thee, I’ll love and bless thy name.
O noble Tower of David, Of gold and ivory. The ark of God’s own promise, The gate of Heav’n to me. To live and not to love thee Would fill my soul with shame. When wicked men blaspheme thee, I’ll love and bless thy name.
When troubles dark afflict me In sorrow and in care, Thy light doth ever guide me O beauteous Morning Star. Lo, I’ll be ever ready Thy goodly help to claim, When wicked men blaspheme thee, To love and bless thy name.
The Saints are high in glory, With golden crowns so bright; But brighter far is Mary, Upon her throne of light. Oh that which God did give thee, Let mortal ne’er disclaim; When wicked men blaspheme thee, I’ll love and bless thy name.
But in the crown of Mary, There lies a wonderous gem, As Queen of all the Angels, Which Mary shares with them; No sin hath e’er defiled thee, So doth our faith proclaim; When wicked men blaspheme thee, I’ll love and bless thy name.
And now O Virgin Mary My mother and my Queen, I’ve sung thy praise so bless me, And keep my heart from sin. When others jeer and mock thee, I’ll often think how I To shield my Mother, Mary, Would lay me down and die.
Saint of the Day – 17 May – Saint Cathan (6th or 7th Century) Bishop of the Isle of Bute, in the Scottish Hebrides. It is believed that he was one of the first Irish Missionaries to the Scottish lands. Also known as – Cadan, Catan, Chattan.
The Ruins of the Cemetary and Chapel of St Cathan on the Isle of Kil’Cathan/Bute
According to the Scots, the Relics of Bishop St Cathan rest on the Isle of Bute, where he may have been the Bishop. They were so famous that the land is often called Kil’cathan.
There is a Tomb bearing this name at Tamlacht near Londonderry in Ireland. Scholars believe there is the possibility that there were two Saints by this name (Benedictines).
St Paschal Baylon OFM (1540-1592) “Seraph of the Eucharist,” “Saint of the Blessed Sacrament,” “Servant of the Blessed Sacrament.” Franciscan Lay Brother, Mystic…….. A man remarkable for innocence of life and the spirit of penance. Pope Leo XIII declared him the heavenly patron of Eucharistic Congresses and Societies and Apostolates, formed in honour of the Most Blessed Sacrament. Official and traditional Patronages: Pope Leo XIII, on 28 November 1897, proclaimed him Patron of Eucharistic Congresses and Associations. Popularly he is also considered Patron of cooks and pastry chefs, on the basis of his humble services carried out in the Convent – according to tradition, Paschal is the creator of the famous desert called Zabaglione, whose name evidently derives from him. Probably due to a resemblance in the sound of Paschal’s Surname (“St Paschal Baylonne”). Paschal is finally invoked by single women looking for a husband and by women in general. About this Beautiful Saint: https://anastpaul.com/2017/05/17/saint-of-the-day-17-may-st-paschal-baylon/ AND: https://anastpaul.wordpress.com/2018/05/17/saint-of-the-day-17-may-st-paschal-baylon-o-f-m-1540-1592-the-seraph-of-the-eucharist/ AND: https://anastpaul.com/2022/05/17/saint-of-the-day-17-may-st-paschal-baylon-ofm-1540-1592-servant-of-the-blessed-sacrament/
St Heraclius of Noviodunum Bl Ivan Ziatyk St Madron of Cornwall St Maildulf of Malmesbury St Maw
St Paul of Noviodunum St Peter Lieou St Rasso of Grafrath St Restituta of Carthage St Silaus of Lucca St Solochanus of Chalcedon St Thethmar St Victor Roma
Martyrs of Alexandria – 3 Saints: Three Christians Martyred together; no details about them have survived except their names: Adrio, Basilla and Victor. 4th century Alexandria, Egypt.
Martyrs of Nyon: A group of Christians Martyred together in the persecutions of Diocletian. We know little more than three of their names: Aquilinus, Heradius and Paul. 303 at Noyon, Switzerland.
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Thought for the Day – 16 May – The Imitation of the Blessed Virgin Mary By Thomas à Kempis (1380-1471)
Extracts from The Imitation of the Blessed Virgin Mary By Thomas à Kempis CRSA (1380-1471) Imprimatur 17 February 1947
SERMON (V) Duty
I. Duty is a harsh word, when it designates the obligation which binds a man to his post. It becomes a word full of sweetness, when it is applied to the voluntary attentions which the heart suggests for a loved one. Our duties to Mary should be of this type. These duties, extremely pleasing, are those of a son to his mother, of a friend to his friend.
The thought of Heaven is a force, as the thought of love is an allurement. To raise one’s thoughts, is to raise oneself completely –Altius cogita (think higher).
II. It is in the life of the soul, as in the present life; to think well, is the beginning of doing well. To have great thoughts is to prepare for great actions. Mary’s example, in this case, is more than a demonstration, it is an attraction and an aid. Mary, says the Gospel, kept all these things in her heart. As Pascal said, great thoughts come from the heart, it is they that create the action. Too often has mysticism been reproached as being only a dream. The mysticism of the Imitation, is an action, for it is perfection!
III. This action is arduous and often discouraging; besides, the soul begs Mary for confidence to be able to attain the goal of the spiritual life which is Heaven.
MEDITATION The Beauties of Mary
The dream of every soul would be to see Mary in her heavenly splendour – Dante had this dream and tried to translate it into his Paradise. He represents Mary to us under the symbol of an aureole of pure gold and he refers to her only, by the names of flowers and nature – “blooming rose” “lily full of whiteness”, “perfumed stem” “fragrant tree”, “singing lyre” “sparkling sapphire” “soaring flame” “arc which riseth.” He sees her only in the midst of flowers, surrounded by stars, crowned with splendours. For him, she epitomises, all which is charming here below in the being of a young girl, a virgin. The grace which extends itself in reflections, the beauty which radiates in magnificence, the love which gushes forth in transport. Before this dazzling vision, the poet lowers his eyes and kneels with arms extended. So, it seems, we too should do in order to contemplate the beauties of Mary.
“Now raise thy view” St Bernard then says to him, “unto the visage most resembling Christ – for, in her splendour only, shalt thou win the power to look on Him!” Mary, indeed, is beautiful, as all souls are beautiful by the reflection of Christ in them!
Practice: Imitate the Saints, who wore the shield and insignia of Mary, like the Scapular and the Rosary.
Thought: The remembrance of Mary is an aid and a support – “Adjuvat et sublevat – it aids and consoles.”
Fr & Dr Célestin Albin de Cigala (1865-1928) Faculty of Paris (1947) Doctor of Theology and Philosophy
Quote/s of the Day – 16 May – Sirach 44:16-17.22-23:45,3.7.15 – Matthew 25,14-23 – Scripture search here: https://www.drbo.org/
“And he who had received the five talents went and traded with them, and gained five more.
Matthew 25:16
“ Well done, good and faithful servant … Enter thou into the joy of thy Lord.” Matthew 25:23
“The parable of the talents is about all those who, instead of providing assistance to their brethren with their goods, their advice or, in some other way, live only for themselves … Jesus wants to show us, our Lord’s long patience in this parable but, He also alludes, it seems to me, to the final resurrection … In the first place, the servants who give an account of their dealings unequivocally acknowledge that which comes from their Master’s gift and, that which is the fruit of their stewardship. Someone who, for the sake of the other, has received the grace of word and teaching but does not put it to use, will have this grace taken away. But someone, who uses wisely and zealously, the grace received, will receive an even more abundant grace!”
St John Chrysostom (347-407) Father & Doctor of the Church
“What dost thou have that thou hast not received?”
One Minute Reflection – 16 May – “The Month of the Blessed Virgin Mary” – St Ubaldus Baldassini (c1085-1160) Bishop and Confessor –Sirach 44:16-17.22-23:45,3.7.15 – Matthew 25:14-23 – Scripture search here: https://www.drbo.org/
“Well done, good and faithful servant … Enter thou into the joy of thy Lord.”- Matthew 25:21
REFLECTION – “The Word of the Father, Only-begotten Son of God, Sun of Justice (Mal 3:20), is the great Merchant Who has brought us the price of our redemption. It is a truly precious exchange which we can never value sufficiently, when a King, Son of the King Most High, has become the Coin, the Gold has paid our dues, the Just Man is given for the sinner. Truly unmerited mercy, perfectly disinterested love, astonishing goodness … it is a completely disproportionate purchase, in which the Son of God is delivered up for the servant, the Creator is put to death for the one He has created, the Lord is condemned for His slave.
O Christ, these are Thine Works, Thou Who descended from Heaven’s brightness into our hellish darkness, to bring Light to our gloomy prison. Thou came down from the Right Hand of the Divine Majesty, into our human misery, to redeem the human race, Thou Who descended from the Father’s glory, to death on the Cross, to triumph over death and its author. Thou art the only One and there is no other but Thee, Who could have been drawn to redeem us through Thine Own Goodness…
Let all the merchants of Teman (Bar 3:23) withdraw from this place … it is not they but Israel [Thy] beloved whom [Thou hast] chosen, Thou Who hide these mysteries from the wise and prudent and have revealed them to those babes and humble servants of Thine (Lk 10:21) … O Lord, I willingly embrace this purchase since it concerns me!… I remember all the things Thou hast done, Thou Who desire that I should keep them alive … Therefore, I shall profit by this talent which Thou hast lent to me until Thy return and will stand before Thee with great joy. O God, grant that I may then hear these sweet words: “Well done, good and faithful servant! Enter thou into the joy of thy Lord” (Mt 25:21).” – St Bernard O.Cist. (1091-1153) Cistercian Monk, known as the Last Father and the Mellifluous Doctor of the Church (Selected sermons, no 42: The Five Purchases).
PRAYER – Mercifully give us Thine help, we beseech Thee, O Lord and by the intercession of blessed Ubaldus, ThyConfessor, stretch over us the Right Hand of Thy mercy against all wickedness of the devil. Through Jesus Christ, Thy Son our Lord, Who lives and reigns with Thee, in the unity of the Holy Ghost, God, world without end. Amen.Through the same Jesus Christ, Thy Son our Lord, Who lives and reigns with Thee, in the unity of the Holy Ghost, God, world without end. Amen (Collect).
Our Morning Offering – 16 May – “The Month of the Blessed Virgin Mary”
O Purest of Creatures, Sweet Mother, Sweet Maid By Fr Frederick W Faber C.Orat. (1814-1863)
O Purest of creatures, sweet Mother, sweet maid, The one spotless womb wherein Jesus was laid! Dark night hath come down on us, Mother! and we Look out for thy shining, sweet Star of the Sea!
Deep night hath come down on this rough-spoken world, And the banners of darkness are boldly unfurled; And the tempest-tossed Church,— all her eyes are on thee; They look to thy shining, sweet Star of the Sea!
He gazed on thy soul, it was spotless and fair, For the empire of sin—it had never been there; None ever had owned thee, dear Mother but He. And He blest thy clear shining, sweet Star of the Sea!
Earth gave Him one lodging; t’was deep in thy breast, And God found a home where the sinner finds rest; His home and His hiding-place, both were in thee, He was won by thy shining, sweet Star of the Sea!
Saint of the Day – 16 May – St Ubaldus Baldassini (c1085-1160) Bishop and Confessor, Reformer, untiring Shepherd and protector of his flock both in spiritual and temporal affairs, Apostle of all the needs of the poor and Defender of his City, Miracle-worker. Born in c1085 in Gubbio near Ancona, Umbria, Italy as Ubaldo Baldassini and died in the same City at around sunrise on Monday 16 May 1160 . Also known as – Ubaldus of Gubbio, Ubaldo… Ubald… Ubalde… Patronages – of Gubbio and Montovi, in Italy, St Ubaldus was Canonised in 1192 by Pope Celestine III.
The Roman Martyrology reads today: “At Gubbio, St Ubaldus, a Bishop renowned for miracles.”
Ubaldus was born into the noble Baldassini family in c1085. His parents died while he was still a child and he was raised by an uncle. He was educated at St Secondus Monastery and then at St Marianus. However, he disapproved of the way of life of the Clergy of San Marianus and, in 1104, he return to St Secondus.
The old Bishop Rusticus died and was succeeded by St John of Lodi. At the request of the new Bishop, St Ubaldus returned to Sant Marianus.
Ubaldus was Ordained in 1114 and was elected Prior of the St Marianus Canonric some four years later He was sympathetic to the cause of Church reform and imposed an ascetic Rule on his community. [He imposed what is known as the Portuense Rule which Pope Paschal II had confirmed in 1116 for a community of Regular Canons at the Church of Santa Maria in Portu on the Island of Corizo near Ravenna. This Rule subsequently became widely diffused in Italy, France, Spain and Germany.]
In 1126, when a fire destroyed much of Gubbio, including the Cathedral and the Monastery, Ubaldus fled to the Eremo di Fonte Avellana, intent on dedicating himself to the monastic life. Ubaldus had donated his inheritance to the poor and to the restoration of Monasteries. Several bishoprics were offered to him,but he refused them all. However, when in 1128, the Episcopal See of Gubbio becoming vacant, he was sent, with some Clerics, by the faithful, to ask Pope Honorius II, for a newBishop. The Pope immediately Consecrated Ubaldus and sent him back to Gubbio. To his people he became a perfect pattern of all Christian virtues and a powerful protector in all their spiritual and temporal needs.
Ubaldus became its Bishop, just a year before the start of the Papal schism. His support Pope Innocent II (perhaps because this was the candidate supported by St Bernard) seems to have been influential in deciding the obedience of the Cities of Umbria.
One of his first acts as the Bishop was to begin the rebuilding of the City. During the years 1135-1140, our Saint Ubaldus, calmed the civil unrest which culminated in the establishment of the government of the region and the election of Consuls. In 1151, exiled nobles from Gubbio seem to have mobilised support from some eleven neighbouring Cities and a force under Perugian leadership attacked Gubbio. However, Ubaldus had rebuilt the walls of the City and the invaders were forced to mount a siege. Fortunately, St Ubaldus was able to dispatch soldiers to the surrounding mountains under cover of darkness. The following day the besieging army found itself surrounded and was forced to withdraw.
His assistance was again needed in 1155, when the Emperor Frederick I, who was camped with a large army after the sack of Spoleto, demanded a huge payment from Gubbio to prevent a similar seige. St Ubaldus pleaded with Frederick I, who was so impressed that he left the City in peace and granted it a number of territorial privileges.
St Ubaldus left and St Fredianus right
Ubaldus was known for his patience and heroic gentleness and was considered to have the gift of healing. Once it happened, that in repairing the wall of the City, the workmen encroached upon his vineyard. The Bishop mildly put them in mind of it, and desired them to forbear. The overseer of the work moved with fury, scornfully pushed him into a great heap of mortar. The good Bishop got up all covered with lime and dirt, without making the least expostulation. The people demanded that the overseer, in punishment for the offence, should be banished and his goods confiscated. The Saint endeavoured to present the incident as an accident but when that did not satisfy the people, who knew how it happened, he, being desirous to deliver the man out of the hands of the magistrates, maintained that the consideration of the misdemeanour belonging to his own jurisdiction, he would take care to render justice himself. Ubaldus then pardoned him.
Numerous miracles were attributed to St Ubaldus during his life and after his death. A number of miraculous cures were attributed to his intercession. The life of St Ubaldus was written by Theobald, his immediate successor in the Episcopal See.
St Ubaldus Shrine
When St Ubaldus died in 1160, he was buried in the old Duomo, beside the Relics of Sts Marianus and James. In 1188, Pope Clement III gave permission to Bishop Benedetto Bentivoglio, for the translation of the Relics of the saints of Gubbio, (presumably including the body of the future St Ubaldus) from the olf City to the site on the mountain, where the new City Cathedral had been constructed. Now known as the Basilica of St Ubaldus, it is frequented by numerous pilgrims.
Dante mentions Ubaldus in the Divine Comedy (Heaven Canto XI): “Between Tupino and the stream which falls from the blest Ubaldus’ chosen hill, the slope is green, a lofty mount below.”
The festival of La Corsa dei Ceri at Gubbio. The statue of Saint Ubaldo leads the procession, followed by ceri topped with the statues of Saint George and Saint Anthony the Great.
St Ubaldus Statue on the South Colonnade, Curved Arm, at St Peter’s Basilica.
St Abdas of Cascar Bl Adam of Adami Bl Adam of San Sabine
St Andrew Bobola SJ (1591-1657) Priest of the Order of the Society of Jesus (Jesuits), Missionary, known as the Apostle of Lithuania and the “Hunter of Souls.” Beatification: 30 October 1853 by Pope Blessed Pius IX Canonisation: 17 April 1938 by Pope Pius XI His Holy and Zealous Life: https://anastpaul.wordpress.com/2017/05/16/saint-of-the-day-16-may-st-andrew-bobola-sj/
St Carantac St Carantoc St Diocletian of Osimo St Felix of Uzalis St Fidolus of Aumont St Fiorenzo of Osimo St Fort of Bordeaux St Francoveus St Gennadius of Uzalis St Germerius of Toulouse St Hilary of Pavia
St Ubaldus Baldassini(c1085-1160) Bishopand Confessor
St Victorian of Isauria Bl Valdimir Ghika
Martyrs of Saint Sabas: A group of Monks, whose names have not come down to us, who were massacred by Moors at the monastery of Saint Sabas in Palestine.
Martyrs of Caramasi Albertin-Marie Maisonade Ignace-Alexandre-Joseph Cardon Jan Chrysostom Zavrel Maturin-Marie Pitri Modeste-Marie Burgen Zosimo Maria Brambat
Martyrs of Osimo Diocletian Fiorenzo
Martyrs of Uzalis Felix Gennadius
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Thought for the Day – 15 May – The Imitation of the Blessed Virgin Mary By Thomas à Kempis (1380-1471)
Extracts from The Imitation of the Blessed Virgin Mary By Thomas à Kempis CRSA (1380-1471 Imprimatur 17 February 1947
Chapter V OUR DUTIES TO MARY
i. You must still learn, my son, how to seek God as Mary did. You must lean upon her powerful aid and be ever doubtful of your own strength, for fear of being enmeshed here below in your passions. Everyday you should rise above yourself with new thoughts and tender your desires to Heaven, toward the Heaven in which you see Mary your Queen, near Jesus the King and in the midst of the Court of Angels. Alas! Often our weakness will force us to descend into this vale of tears! It is then, above all, it will be necessary to make an effort to raise the voice in frequent supplication to Mary, who is the mother of mercy, so that she may tell her merciful Son how our soul lacks the wine of fervour, how it has need of the perfume of piety, in order to be able to praise Him as one should praise God. Because He alone, in truth, hastens to succour those who, in order to please Him ,have scorned the world and those, who are, for His sake scorned by the world because of His Name and His holy Gospel.
ii. It is often important indeed, to know of a refuge in which one may hide oneself against storms, in the presence of tempests, of tribulation. There is no spot, no place more secure, no port more tranquil, than the bosom of Mary. So, there is no runner more rapid to support us against the blows of the enemy, than an ardent prayer, rising from the plain to the well-armed stronghold of the Virgin Mary. This stronghold is the same one in which Jesus entered, to be clothed therein with a body like unto an armour, so as to chase afar the prince of darkness. Enter you too, within that fortress so as to be sheltered from those who assail you. Remain under the mantle of the Virgin Mary; you will be protected by the arms of a mother. The prayer of Mary puts to flight the.destructive rabble of evil enemies: her aid snatches us from imminent peril. Near her, he who wavers, finds support and he who is abandoned, assistance. It is a benefit, a very great benefit, for you, if you know how to show yourself worthy in this regard and, at the same time, strive attentively to please the Virgin Mary in everything. You will thus merit her graces here below and His glory on high, in the company of the Saints. Attach yourself to her and do not leave her until she has granted you her blessing, so as to lead you to Heaven.
iii. Prayer: O Mary, I Entrust Myself to Thine Heart
O Mary, O mistress filled with clemency, in the name of pure love and affection, I remain at thy feet. I beg thee, give to my heart, an increase of confidence. Fear pursues me and doubt gnaws at me; despair assails me in the midst of temptations: only one thing is still able to console me – it is that, I have sought to be harkened by thee, O Mother, I entrust myself to thine heart.
(By Thomas à Kempis (1380-1471) Monastic Enchiridion, Chapter IV)
Translated by Fr & Dr Célestin Albin de Cigala (1865-1928) Faculty of Paris (1947) Doctor of Theology and Philosophy
Quote/s of the Day – 15 May – St John Baptiste de la Salle (1651-1719) “The Father of Modern Education,” Confessor, Priest, Founder
“Walk along God’s path.”
“Show the great love you have for Jesus, by being eager to talk with Him in prayer.”
Prayer for the Intercession of St John Baptist de La Salle
O Glorious Saint Jean Baptiste de la Salle, Apostle of Children and Youth, be thou, from the heights of Heaven, our guide and our patron. Offer thy prayers fo us and help us, that we may be kept free from every stain of error and corruption and remain ever faithful to Jesus Christ and to His Church. Grant that we, practising the virtues of which thou has been so wondrous an example, may be made partakers of the glory in Heaven, our true country. Amen
One Minute Reflection – 15 May – “The Month of the Blessed Virgin Mary” – St John Baptiste de la Salle (1651-1719) “The Father of Modern Education,” Confessor, Priest, Founder – Sirach 31:8-11 – Matthew 18:1-5 – Scripture search here: https://www.drbo.org/
“And whoever receives one such little child for My Sake, receives Me.” – Matthew 18:5
REFLECTION – “Could God not have made the human person perfect right from the beginning? For God, Who has always been identical with Himself and Who is not created, everything is possible. But because the existence of the created beings began after God’s, they are necessarily inferior to God, Who made them … Thus, since they are created, they are not perfect. When they have just been born, they are small children and as small children, they are neither accustomed to, nor have they had practice in, perfect conduct … Thus, God could give perfection to the human person right from the beginning but, the human person was incapable of receiving this perfection, for he was only a small child.
And that is why, in the last times, when our Lord gathered up all things in Himself (Eph 1:10), He came to us, not in His power but, in such a way, we were able to see Him. For He could have come to us in His inexpressible glory but, we were not yet able to bear the greatness of His glory. … Although, the Word of God was perfect, with humankind He became a small Child, not for Himself but because of the state of childhood, in which was humankind.” – St Irenaeus (c130-202) Bishop of Lyons, Martyr, Father of the Church (Against the Heresies IV 38, 1-2).
PRAYER – God, Who raised up the holy Confessor John Baptiste for the Christian education of the poor and to strengthen youth in the way of truth and through him, formed a new family in the Church, graciously grant, by his intercession and example, that we, striving to save souls out of zeal for Your glory, may be found worthy to share his heavenly crown. T hrough Jesus Christ, Thy Son our Lord, Who lives and reigns with Thee, in the unity of the Holy Ghost, God, world without end. Amen (Collect).
Our Morning Offering – 15 May – “The Month of the Blessed Virgin Mary”
Most Holy Virgin Mary, Help of Christians By St John Bosco (1815-1888)
Most Holy Virgin Mary, Help of Christians, how sweet it is to come to thy feet imploring thy perpetual aid. If earthly mothers cease not to remember their children, how canst thou, the most loving of all mothers, forget me? Grant then to me, I implore thee thy perpetual aid in all my necessities, in every sorrow and especially in all my temptations. I ask for thy unceasing assistance for all who are now suffering. Help the weak, cure the sick, convert sinners. Grant through thy intercession, many vocations to the religious life. Obtain for us, O Mary, Help of Christians, that having invoked thee on earth we may love and eternally thank thee in Heaven. Amen
Saint of the Day – 15 May – Saint Bercthun (Died 733) Abbot of the Monastery n Beverley, North Yorkshire, England. Born in the late 7th Century in Beverley, and died there on 15 May 733 . Also known as – Beorhthun, Berchthun, Berhthu, Bertctun, Bertin, Brithun, Brithwin, Brituno, Britwin, … of Beverley. Additional Memorial – 15 September on local calendars.
A Yorkshireman by birth, Bercthun after having been one of the disciples of St John of Beverley, Archbishop of York, he became a Deacon.
The Archbishop had a great regard for Bercthun, so much so, he entrusted him with the government of the Abbey he had founded in Indervoda or Deirvoda, which would become Beverley which was located in the north of Yorkshire nearby our Saint’s own home-ground and that of St John too.
And it was precisely to this Monastery St John retired after renouncing the government of his Archdiocese. The Venerable St Bede also mentioned Bercthun, calling him “most reverend and most truthful.”
Although we know very little about Bercthu’s personal history, his name appears in various hagiographic sources. The only certain date is the day of his death which occurred on 15 May and, depending on the sources, in the year 733 or 740.
Bercthun’s body was buried in the Monastery but after some miracles were attributed to him through his intercession, it was transferred to the Church and placed next to his master, St John.
St Bercthun is depicted in a bust in the British Library and is locally celebrated and remembered on 15 September possibly the date of the translation of St Bercthun’s Relics.
St Bercthun (Died 733) Abbot in Beverley, England St Bertha of Bingen St Caecilius of Granada St Caesarea of Otranto St Cassius of Clermont Bl Clemente of Bressanone St Colman Mc O’Laoighse St Ctesiphon of Verga
St Hilary of Galeata St Indaletius of Urci St Isaias St Isidore of Chios Bl Joan Montpeó Masip St Maximus of Clermont St Nicholas the Mystic St Rupert of Bingen St Secundus of Avila St Simplicius of Sardinia St Sophia of Rome St Victorinus of Clermont St Waldalenus of Beze
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Thought for the Day – 14 May – The Imitation of the Blessed Virgin Mary By Thomas à Kempis (1380-1471)
Extracts from The Imitation of the Blessed Virgin Mary By Thomas à Kempis CRSA (1380-1471) Imprimatur 17 February 1947
SERMON The Eminent Dignity of the Mother of God
I. The dignity of a person or of a being, is measured by its function. There is not on earth, nor even in Heaven, a function equal to that of the Divine Maternity of Mary. Mary is truly Theotokos, Mother of God and, at the same time, Mother of the Saviour because, in Jesus, the Divinity and the Humanity are substantially united. There is, therefore, no dignity superior to the dignity of Mary.
II. This eminent maternal dignity confers, on Mary, divine prerogatives, at the same time, it infuses into her, human tenderness superior to the most exquisite tenderness of mothers on earth. Even from the viewpoint of the physical function, of the beauty of the woman and of the mother, Mary is, above all those who have been outstanding in the world by their charms and attractions. St Dennis, the Areopagite, a refined Athenian and disciple of St Paul, having gone to Jerusalem and having seen Mary, found her so beautiful, he wished to prostrate himself before her, as before a goddess. Thus should we do in spirit!
III. It is what the disciple promises enthusiastically in the prayer addressed to Mary.
MEDITATION The Use of Time
Between the past which escapes us and the future which does not belong to us, there is the present which alone we possess. This is the time of action and of duty. To employ the present well, is to enrich your life; to waste it, is to die with it. The first rule to use time well, is to use it and not to lose it! Next, to use it in time and not to act at random. Finally, to use it profitably and not without goal and rule; put off nothing, delay nothing until later! This is the secret, par excellence, of success. Mary, here again, can serve us as model. She was undoubtedly, the valiant and diligent woman of whom the Gospel speaks. She fulfilled, with perfection, the motto of the noble Romans. Mary, indeed, was at once Israelite by birth and Roman by adoption. She is the perfect type of woman in the double sense of: fernina et mulier. Let us reproduce this model and this type.
Practice: St Francis de Sales purchased by an alms, each hour which he thought to have lost or misused – imitate him!
Thought: The thought of Mary is a consolation and a protection: “Solamen et dictarnen – Comfort and diration.”
Fr & Dr Célestin Albin de Cigala (1865-1928) Faculty of Paris (1947) Doctor of Theology and Philosophy
Quote/s of the Day – 14 May – The Octave Day of the Patronage of St Joseph
“Saint Joseph was the just man: by his constant fidelity -an effect of justice; by his perfect discretion – a sister to prudence; by his upright conduct – a mark of strength and by his inviolable chastity – a flower of temperance.”
St Albert the Great (1200-1280) Doctor of the Church
“To all fathers of families, Joseph is verily the best model of paternal vigilance and care. In the most holy Virgin Mother of God, mothers may find an excellent example of love, modesty, resignation of spirit and the perfecting of faith. And in Jesus, Who was subject to His parents, the children of the family, have a Divine Pattern of obedience which they can admire, reverence and imitate.”
Pope Leo XIII (1810-1903)
Apostolic Letter, “Breve Neminem Fugit” 1892
“As the Church of Christ is prefigured in the rites and ceremonies of the Old Law, so too, the chief personages who centre around Our Lord in the Redemption of the world, are foreshadowed in the Old Testament . We trace the outlines of Our Lady’s graces in Esther, Jahel, Bethsabee, Judith. So too, St Joseph’s place in the new dispensation, is anticipated in the place of the Patriarch Joseph at the Court of Pharaoh. Thus it is that, God, in His Love for His chosen ones, paves the way for them centuries before. From the beginning, He has prepared their work and the throne they are to earn in Heaven by their labours and sufferings for Him.”
One Minute Reflection – 14 May – “The Month of the Blessed Virgin Mary” –The Octave Day of St Joseph – Feast of St Boniface (Died c307), Martyr – Genesis 49:22-26 – Luke 3:21-23 – Scripture search here: https://www.drbo.org/
“And Jesus, Himself, was beginning about the age of thirty years, being – (as it was supposed) – the son of Joseph … ” – Luke 3:23
REFLECTION – “How faithful in humility was the great Saint we are celebrating! That cannot be said in all its perfection for, in spite of what he was, in what poverty and lowliness he lived all the days of his life, a poverty and lowliness beneath which he kept hidden and concealed his great virtues and dignity!… Truly, I have no doubt at all, that the angels came, beside themselves with admiration, rank upon rank, to behold and wonder at his humility, while he sheltered that dearest Child, in the poor workshop where he worked at his employment, so as to feed the little Boy and the mother entrusted to him.
There is no doubt at all, that Saint Joseph was braver than David and wiser that Solomon, [who were his ancestors]. Nevertheless, seeing him reduced to the exercise of carpentry, who could have discerned this, unless they were enlightened by a heavenly light, so hidden did he keep the remarkable gifts, with which God had favoured him?
And what wisdom did he not have? For God gave him, His most glorious Son to care for… the universal Prince of heaven and earth… Nevertheless, you can see how low and humbled he was brought, more than can be said or imagined… he went to his own country and town of Bethlehem and none but he, was turned away from all those inns…
Notice how the Angel turns him about with both hands. He tells him he has to go to Egypt and he goes, he orders him to return and he returns. God wants him to be always poor… and he submits to it with love and not only for a while, for he was poor his whole life long.”- St Francis de Sales (1567-1622) Bishop of Geneva and Doctor of the Church – Conferences, no. 19) .
PRAYER – God, Who in Thine unspeakable foreknowledge didst choose thy blessed servant Joseph, to be the husband of Thine Own most holy Mother; mercifully grant now that he is in Heaven with Thee, we who on earth do reverence him for our Defender, may worthily be aided by the succour of his prayers, to Thee on our behalf. Through Jesus Christ, Thy Son our Lord, Who lives and reigns with Thee, in the unity of the Holy Ghost, God, world without end. Amen (Collect).
Our Morning Offering – 14 May – “The Month of the Blessed Virgin Mary”
Alma Redemptoris Mater Loving Mother of the Redeemer By Blessed Herman Contractus of Reichenau OSB (1013–1054)
Loving Mother of the Redeemer! Hear thou thy people’s cry, Star of the deep and portal of the sky! Mother of Him Who thee from nothing made, Sinking we strive and call to thee for aid; Oh, by that joy which Gabriel brought to thee, Thou Virgin first and last, let we thy mercy see.
Alma Redemptóris Mater, quæ pérvia cæli Porta manes, et stella maris, succúrre cadénti, Súrgere qui curat pópulo: tu quæ genuísti, Natúra miránte, tuum sanctum Genitórem Virgo prius ac postérius, Gabriélis ab ore Sumens illud Ave, peccatórum miserére.
Marian Antiphon Traditionally said from Advent to the Purification of the Blessed Virgin. Blessed Herman is the Author of the Salve Regina, the Veni Sancte Spiritus and the Alma Redemptoris Mater amongst others.
Saint of the Day – 14 May – St Boniface (Died c307) Martyred by beheading in c307 in Tarsus, Cilicia (in modern Turkey). Patronage – of the City of Cerchiara di Calabria in Italy. Also known as – Boniface of Tarsus, Bonifatius
The Roman Martyrology reads today: “The birthday of the holy Martyr Boniface, who suffered at Tarsus in Cilicia under Diocletian and Maximian. His body was subsequently carried to Rome and buried on the Latin Way.”
Boniface went from Rome to Tarsus in Cilicia to bring back the Relics of the Martyrs to his mistress, Aglaida of whom he was the steward. As a faithful follower of Christ, he in turn suffered Martyrdom under Galerius and his father-in-law Diocletian.
Both Boniface and Aglaida had been pagans and lived in dissoluteness. Tired of their way of life but also interested in understanding the phenomenon of Christianity, Aglaida decided to send Boniface on a pilgrimage to the Holy Land to collect the holy Relics of the Christian Martyrs.
Alexandre Cabanel – Aglaida and Boniface
When he arrived in Tarsus, Boniface discovered a massive persecution against Christians had begun, he immediately declared himself a Christian and, as such, was subjected to Martyrdom. His embalmed body was brought back to Rome to be buried in an oratory on the Via Latina.
Aglaida herself had too become a Christian. Leaving all her wealth to the poor, she retired to monastic life for the eighteen years she lived, receiving – the divine gift of exorcising evil spirits.
In memory of Boniface, Aglaida had a Church built on the Aventine which later became the basilica of Saints Boniface and Alexius (where the remains of St Alexius of Rome are also found), a place where, the Saint’s Relics were later transferred, on Palm Tuesday 1217, to a marble urn under the high Altar.
St Boniface is remembered on 14 May. He is the Patron of Cerchiara di Calabria in Italy. In 1969 the life of the saint was considered legendary and his name was removed from the general calendar of Saints. The Municipality of San Bonifacio takes its name from a noble Chapel dedicated to Saint Boniface of Tarsus.
St Boniface (6th Century) Bishop of Ferentino St Boniface of Tarsus Martyr St Corona the Martyr St Costanzo of Capri St Costanzo of Vercelli Bl Diego of Narbonne St Dyfan St Engelmer St Erembert of Toulouse St Felice of Aquileia St Fortunatus of Aquileia St Gal of Clermont-Ferrand
St Henedina of Sardinia St Justa of Sardinia St Justina of Sardinia
St Maria Domenica Mazzarello FMA (1837-1881) Virgin, Religious Sister and Founder with St John Bosco of the Daughters of Mary Help of Christians. They were founded to work alongside Saint John Bosco and his Salesians of Don Bosco in his teaching projects in Turin. They continue to be a teaching Order worldwide and are now called the Salesian Sisters of St John Bosco.Her Body is incorrupt. Maria was Beatified on 20 November 1938 and Canonised on 24 June 1951. Her incorrupt body is venerated in the Basilica of Our Lady Help of Christians, in Turin, Italy, which is the Mother Basilica of the Salesians, built by St John Bosco. A Church in southeast Rome bears her name, Santa Maria Domenica Mazzarello – the Statue below resides there. Her Saintly Life: https://anastpaul.com/2022/05/14/saint-of-the-day-14-may-st-maria-domenica-mazzarello-fma-1837-1881/
St Maria Domenica Mazzarello FMA (1837-1881) Virgin
St Pons of Pradleves St Pontius of Cimiez St Tuto of Regensburg St Victor the Martyr
Martyrs of Seoul – 5 Beata: A group of lay people Martyred together in the apostolic vicariate of Korea. • Petrus Choe Pil-je • Lucia Yun Un-hye • Candida Jeong Bok-hye • Thaddeus Jeong In-hyeok • Carolus Jeong Cheol-sang 14 May 1801 at the Small West Gate, Seoul, South Korea
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Thought for the Day – 13 May – The Imitation of the Blessed Virgin Mary By Thomas à Kempis (1380-1471)
Extracts from The Imitation of the Blessed Virgin Mary By Thomas à Kempis CRSA (1380-1471) Imprimatur 17 February 1947
Chapter IV The GRANDEURS and GLORIES of MARY
i. Who is she who rises from the emptiness of this world steeped in the delights of Paradise? O Mary, greater than the heavens, thou hast the world under thy feet and thou art seated close to God, on the throne of honour which Jesus gave to thee. Thy mercy which surpasses all mercy, draws me to thee, for thou art ever the aid and consolation of those who suffer. I have need, O Mother, of being consoled and fortified. More than that, I have need of the grace of thy Son because I know, without it, I can accomplish nothing. Thou art able, O my Mother, if thou wish, to lift me up and help me with thy powerful succour. Thou canst comfort me with thine abundant consolation. I feel myself engulfed by temptation, so I run to thee, since I feel that, near to thee, I shall find help as well as pity.
ii. And if I may approach thy majesty and greet thee with reverence and honour, I feel that I must approach thee with love. There is no praise which I can offer thee; rather, I am forced to present to thee, supplication. He who wishes to come near thee irreverently, will be confounded, therefore, I wish to come to thee, O Mother, with confidence, with respect, with humility, so as to merit thy clemency and thine aid. Yes, it is with respect, with love and confidence I come, O Mary, to offer to thee, in my turn, the salutation the kneeling Angel offered thee. I offer it to thee, arms extended and hands upraised, I offer it to thee, thousands and thousands of times and I beg everyone to offer it for me because, I know of nothing sweeter that I may give.
iii. Prayer: O Mother, More Beloved than All Mothers
O Mother, more beloved than all mothers, O Mary, if sometimes I have forgotten thee, I regret and weep for it today. But thou, oh! do not forget me, thou who alone brought forth Mercy by giving birth to Jesus. Kneeling, I salute thee, I bow before thee, I join my hands and prostrate myself, so that thou may listen with greater love to my prayer. I say, before thee and I wish ever to repeat it: “Hail Mary, full of grace the Lord is with thee; thou art blessed among all women and Jesus, the fruit of thy womb, is blessed!”
(By Thomas à Kempis (1380-1471) Soliloquy of the Soul, Chapter XXIII)
Translated by: Fr & Dr Célestin Albin de Cigala (1865-1928) Faculty of Paris (1947) Doctor of Theology and Philosophy
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