Author: AnaStpaul

Passionate Catholic. Being a Catholic is a way of life - a love affair "Religion must be like the air we breathe..."- St John Bosco Prayer is what the world needs combined with the example of our lives which testify to the Light of Christ. This site, which is now using the Traditional Calendar, will mainly concentrate on Daily Prayers, Novenas and the Memorials and Feast Days of our friends in Heaven, the Saints who went before us and the great blessings the Church provides in our Catholic Monthly Devotions. This Site is placed under the Patronage of my many favourite Saints and especially, St Paul. "For the Saints are sent to us by God as so many sermons. We do not use them, it is they who move us and lead us, to where we had not expected to go.” Charles Cardinal Journet (1891-1975) This site adheres to the pre-Vatican II Catholic Church and all her teachings. . PLEASE ADVISE ME OF ANY GLARING TYPOS etc - In June 2021 I lost 100% sight in my left eye and sometimes miss errors. Thank you and I pray all those who visit here will be abundantly blessed. Pax et bonum! 🙏
Posted in CHRIST the WORD and WISDOM, DOCTORS of the Church, FATHERS of the Church, GOD ALONE!, JULY - The MOST PRECIOUS BLOOD, ONE Minute REFLECTION, PENTECOST, QUOTES on the CROSS of CHRIST, The GOOD SHEPHERD, The HOLY CROSS, The HOLY GHOST, The MOST PRECIOUS BLOOD, The WORD

One Minute Reflection – 8 June – ‘…This is wine which was pressed on the Cross!’ St Ephrem

Posted on by AnaStpaul

One Minute Reflection – 8 June – “The Month of the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus” – Pentecost Sunday – Acts 2:1-11 – John 14:23-31 – Scripture search here: https://www.drbo.org/

“But the Paraclete, the Holy Ghost, Whom the Father will send in My Name, He will teach you all things and bring all things to your mind, whatsoever I shall have said to you.” – John 14:26

REFLECTION – “The Apostles were sitting there in the Cenacle, the Upper Room, waiting for the Holy Ghost’s coming. Like torches, they were present there, ready and waiting to be set alight by the Holy Ghost so as to illumine the whole creation with their teaching… They were there like farm hands carrying seed in their coat pocket, waiting for the order to go out and sow. They were there like sailors whose boat is tied up in the harbour of the Son’s commandment and who are waiting for the gentle wind of the Spirit. They were there like shepherds who have just received their staff from the Chief Shepherd of the fold and who are waiting for the flock to be divided among them.

“And they began to speak in different tongues as the Spirit enabled them to proclaim.” O Cenacle, kneading trough into which has been thrown the leaven, leavening the whole world! O Cenacle, mother of all the Churches, who have witnessed the miracle of the burning bush (Ex 3). O Cenacle, amazing Jerusalem with a wonder far greater than that of the burning furnace which astonished the inhabitants of Babylon (Dn 3). The fire of the furnace burned all those around it but protected those in its midst – the flames of the Cenacle gather together those outside who wish to see them, while bringing comfort to those who receive them. O fire, whose coming is word, whose silence is light! O fire, establishing hearts in thankfulness!…

Some people, who were opposed to the Holy Ghost, said: “These people have had too much new wine; they are drunk.” Indeed, you speak truly! However, it is not as you think it is. It is not wine from the vineyard they have drunk. It is a new wine which flows from Heaven – a wine newly pressed on Golgotha. The Apostles caused it to be drunk and thus, they inebriated all creation. This is wine which was pressed on the Cross!” – St Ephrem (306-373) Deacon in Syria, Father and Doctor of the Church [Added by Pope Benedict XV in 1920] – (On the outpouring of the Holy Ghost).

PRAYER – O God, Thou Who on this day have taught the hearts of the faithful by the Light of the Holy Spirit, grant us by that Holy Spirit Himself, to know what is right and ever to rejoice in His consolation. 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).

Posted in 7 GIFTS of the HOLY GHOST: Wisdom, Understanding, Prudence, Strength, Knowledge, Piety, Fear, PENTECOST, PRAYERS to THE HOLY GHOST, The HOLY GHOST

Our Morning Offering – 8 June – The Golden Sequence, Veni Sancte Spiritus

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Our Morning Offering – 8 June – “The Month of the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus” – Pentecost Sunday

Veni Sancte Spiritus
The Golden Sequence (Extract)

Come, Holy Ghost and bring from above
The splendour of Thy Light.
Come, Father of the poor,
come, Giver of graces,
Come, Light of our hearts.
Best of Consolers,
sweet Guest of the soul,
And Comfort of the weary.
Thou rest in labour,
relief in burning toil,
Consoling us in sorrow.
O blessed Light,
fill the innermost hearts
Of those who trust in Thee.
Without Thy indwelling,
there is nothing in man
And nothing free of sin.
Cleanse what is sordid,
give water in dryness,
And heal the bleeding wounds.
Bend what is proud,
make warm what is cold,
Bring back the wayward soul.
Give to the faithful, who trustingly beg Thee
Thy seven Holy Gifts.
Grant virtue’s reward, salvation in death,
And everlasting joy.
Amen
Alleluia!

“Veni Sancte Spiritus,” the “Golden Sequence”
is a sequence prescribed in the Roman Liturgy for the Masses of Pentecost and its Octave, exclusive Trinity Sunday.
It is usually attributed to either the 13th Century Pope Innocent III (c1160 – 1216) or to the Archbishop of Canterbury, Cardinal Stephen Langton (c1150 – 1228).

Posted in SAINT of the DAY

Saint of the Day – 8 June – St Clodulphus (c605-c696) Bishop

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Saint of the Day – 8 June – St Clodulphus (c605-c696) Bishop of Metz, modern France, serving for around 40 years from approximately 647 until his death in 606 or 607. A man of great holiness and charity, he served his Diocese and his King and Government with brilliant and faithful apostolic fervour. Devoting himself to both spiritual and pastoral care of the most needy to the King and noblemen. Born in c605 and died on 8 June in c696. Patronage – of Metz. Also known as – Chlodulf, Clodould, Clodulphe, Clodulph, Clou, Cloud, Clodolfo, Clodulfo,

The Roman Martyrology reads today: “At Metz, St Clodulphus, Bishop.”

St Clodulphus and his wife Maria

Clodulphus was the son of St Arnulf, the Bishop of Metz and his wife, Doda. He was raised in an environment permeated by religious values ​​and commitment to the community.

Together with his brother, Ansegis, Clodulphus distinguished himself for his abilities and his high sense of duty, obtaining important positions at the Court of the Kings of Austrasia, modern France.

However, it was at the death of his father’s successor, St Arnulf, on the Episcopal seat of Metz, that Clodulphus embarked on a path destined to leave an indelible mark on history. Although he was a layman and already led a devout and holy life, he was elected as the Bishop, accepting the office with humility and deep dedication.

Bishop Clodulphus led the Diocese of Metz for forty years, distinguishing himself for his wisdom, his generosity and his commitment to promoting the well-being of the people. His pastoral work was characterised by the attentive care of the clergy, the promotion of devotions and piety among the faithful and the realisation of numerous charitable works, including the distribution of alms to the most needy.

Clodulphus did not limit himself only to the spiritual aspect,but also proved to be a skilled administrator, wisely managing the resources of the Diocese and contributing to its economic and social development. It is thought that he also composed a biography of his father St Arnulf, testimony to his deep family ties and his admiration for his parent’s work.

In addition to his Episcopal role, Clodulphus played a leading role as an advisor to the Kings of Austrasia. His wisdom and political experience made him an important point of reference for the Sovereigns, who relied upon his judgement in crucial matters for the Kingdom.

Clodulphus’ influence also extended to the dynastic sphere. His brother, Ansegis, by marrying Begga, daughter of Pepin of Landen, became the founder of the Carolingian Dynasty, destined to profoundly mark European history.
In this way, Clodulphus found himself playing an indirect but significant role in the birth of this powerful Dynasty.

Clodulphus died at the age of about ninety-one, leaving a lasting legacy in the Diocese of Metz and in Frankish history. As Patron Saint of the Diocese and City of Metz, Clodulphus is celebrated on 8 June each year.

Posted in MARIAN TITLES, SAINT of the DAY

Pentecost Sunday, Notre-Dame du Dimanche/ Our Lady of Sunday, France (1873) and the Saints for 8 June 2025

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Pentecost Sunday Alleluia!
https://anastpaul.com/2022/06/05/pentecost-sunday-5-june/
AND:
https://anastpaul.com/2018/05/20/the-solemnity-of-pentecost-20-may/

Notre-Dame du Dimanche/ Our Lady of Sunday, Saint-Bauzille-de-la-Sylve, l’Hérault, France (1873) – 8 June:
HERE:
https://anastpaul.com/2021/06/08/notre-dame-du-dimanche-our-lady-of-sunday-saint-bauzille-de-la-sylve-lherault-france-1873-and-memorials-of-the-saints-8-june/

Blessed Armand of Zierikzee OFM (Died c1524) Friar of the Order of the Friars Minor, renowned Scriptural Scholar.
St Bron of Cassel Bishop, Spiritual student of Saint Patrick.
St Calliope
St Clodulf (c605-c696) Bishop of Metz
Bl Engelbert of Schäftlarn
St Eustadiola of Moyen-Moutier
St Fortunatus of Fano Bishop

St Gildard of Rouen (c 456-c 545 Bishop of Rouen, Confessor * Twin Brother of St Medard below.
The Roman Martyrology states of St Medard and his twin brother, St Gildard, today: “At Soissons, in France, the birthday of St Gildard, Bishop of Rouen, whose life and precious death are illustrated by glorious miracles – at Rouen, St Gildard, Bishop, twin brother of St Medard,who was born with his brother on the same day, Consecrated Bishops at the same time and being taken away from this life, also on the same day, they entered Heaven together!”
About St Gildard:
https://anastpaul.com/2022/06/08/saint-of-the-day-8-june-st-gildard-of-rouen-c-456-c-545/

Bl Giorgio Porta
Bl Giselbert of Cappenberg
St Heraclius of Sens

Blessed John Davy O.Cart. (c1490-1535) Deacon of the Carthusian Order, Martyr. Born in York in c1490 and died by being chained to a wall in the Tower prison, London and starved, until his death on 8 June 1535. Also known as – John Davies. Additional Memorial – 4 May as one of the Carthusian Martyrs of London. Blessed John was Beatified on 20 December 1886 by Pope Leo XIII.
His Life and Death:
https://anastpaul.com/2024/06/08/saint-of-the-day-8-june-blessed-john-davy-o-cart-c1490-1535-deacon-martyr/

Bl essedJohn Rainuzzi
Bl Maddallena of the Conception

St Maximinus of Aix (1st Century) The first Bishop of Aix-en-Provence, France, in the 1st Century. One of Christ’s seventy-two disciples and a companion of Sts Mary Magdalen, Mary Cleopas, Martha and Lazarus. In one account, Maximinus is called “the man who had been blind from birth.”
The Roman Martyrology reads: “In Aix-en-Provence in France, Saint Maximinus, who is believed to have been a disciple of Our Lord and to whom the beginnings of Christianity in this City are attributed.”
His Zealous Life:
https://anastpaul.com/2023/06/08/saint-of-the-day-8-june-st-maximinus-of-aix-1st-century-bishop-one-of-christs-seventy-two-disciples-and-possibly-the-man-who-had-been-blind-from-birth/

St Medard (c456-545) Bishop and Confessor * Twin Brother of St Gildard above.
About these iluustrious Saint:
https://anastpaul.com/2020/06/08/saint-of-the-day-8-june-saint-medard-c-456-545-bishop/
The Roman Martyrology states of St Medard and his twin brother, St Gildard, today: “At Soissons, in France, the birthday of St Medard, Bishop of Novon, whose life and precios death are illustrated by glorious miracles – at Rouen, St Gildard, Bishop, twin brother of St Medard,who was born with his brother on the same day, Consecrated Bishops at the same time and being taken away from this life, also on the same day, they entered Heaven together!”

St Melania the Elder
St Muirchu
St Pacificus of Cerano
Bl Peter de Amer
Bl Robert of Frassinoro
St Sallustian
St Syra of Troyes
St Victorinus of Camerino

St William of York (Died 1154) Archbishop of York, Monk
St William’s Life:
https://anastpaul.com/2021/06/08/saint-of-the-day-8-june-saint-william-of-york-died-1154/

Posted in 7 GIFTS of the HOLY GHOST: Wisdom, Understanding, Prudence, Strength, Knowledge, Piety, Fear, PENTECOST, PRAYERS to THE HOLY GHOST, The HOLY GHOST

The Indulgenced Pentecost Novena to the Holy Ghost, the Ninth Day – The Vigil of Pentecost, 7 June

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The Indulgenced Pentecost Novena to the Holy Ghost for the Seven Gifts – The Vigil of Pentecost – 7 June

NINTH DAY

Foreword and Indulgences CLICK HERE :  Foreword

Thou, on those who evermore
Thee confess and Thee adore
In Thy sevenfold Gifts, descend.
Give them comfort when they die,
Give them life with Thee on high,
Give them joys which never end.

THE FRUITS of the HOLY GHOST

The Gifts of the Holy Ghost perfect the supernatural virtues,
by enabling us to practice them with greater docility to Divine inspiration.
As we grow in the knowledge and love of God, under the direction of the Holy Ghost, our service becomes more sincere and generous,
the practice of virtue becomes more perfect.
Such acts of virtue leave the heart filled with joy and consolation
and are known as Fruits of the Holy Spirit.
These Fruits, in turn, render the practice of virtue more attractive and become a powerful incentive for still greater efforts,
in the service of God, to serve Whom is to reign!

Prayer

Come, O Divine Spirit,
fill my heart with Thy heavenly fruits,
Thy charity, joy,
peace, patience,
benignity, goodness,
faith, mildness and temperance,
that I may never weary
of the service of God
but, by continued faithful submission,
to Thy inspiration,
may merit to be united eternally with Thee,
in the love of the Father
and the Son.
Amen

Our Father and Hail Mary – ONCE.
Glory be to the Father – SEVEN TIMES.

ACT of CONSECRATION to the HOLY GHOST
To be prayed each day of the Novena

Posted in 7 GIFTS of the HOLY GHOST: Wisdom, Understanding, Prudence, Strength, Knowledge, Piety, Fear, PENTECOST, PRAYERS to THE HOLY GHOST, QUOTES on WISDOM, The HOLY GHOST

The Indulgenced Pentecost Novena to the Holy Ghost, the Eighth Day – 6 June

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The Indulgenced Pentecost Novena to the Holy Ghost for the Seven Gifts

EIGHTH DAY

Foreword and Indulgences CLICK HERE :  Foreword

Bend the stubborn heart and will;
Melt the frozen, warm the chill;
Guide the steps which go astray!

The Spirit of Wisdom

Embodying all the other gifts, as charity embraces all the other virtues,
Wisdom is the most perfect of the gifts.
Of Wisdom it is written:
“all good things come to me with her
and innumerable riches through her hands.”
It is the gift of Wisdom which strengthens our faith,
fortifies hope, perfects charity and promotes the practice of virtue
in the highest degree.
Wisdom enlightens the mind to discern and relish things Divine,
in the appreciation of which, earthly joys lose their savour,
whilst the Cross of Christ, yields a Divine sweetness,
according to the words of the Saviour:
“Take up thy cross and follow Me,
for My Yoke is sweet and My Burden light.”

Prayer

Come, O Spirit of Wisdom
and reveal to my soul,
the Mysteries of heavenly things,
their exceeding greatness,
power and beauty.
Teach me to love them above
and beyond all the passing joys
and satisfactions of earth.
Help me to attain them
and possess them forever.
Amen

Our Father and Hail Mary – ONCE.
Glory be to the Father – SEVEN TIMES.

ACT of CONSECRATION to the HOLY GHOST
To be prayed each day of the Novena

Posted in 7 GIFTS of the HOLY GHOST: Wisdom, Understanding, Prudence, Strength, Knowledge, Piety, Fear, PENTECOST, PRAYERS to THE HOLY GHOST, The HOLY GHOST

The Indulgenced Pentecost Novena to the Holy Ghost, the Seventh Day – 5 June

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The Indulgenced Pentecost Novena to the Holy Ghost for the Seven Gifts

SEVENTH DAY

Foreword and Indulgences CLICK HERE :  Foreword

Heal our wounds, our strength renew;
On our dryness pour Thy dew;
Wash the stains of guilt away!

THE GIFT OF COUNSEL

The gift of Counsel endows the soul with supernatural prudence,
enabling it to judge promptly and rightly, that which must be done,
especially in difficult circumstances.
Counsel applies, the principles furnished by Knowledge and Understanding, to the innumerable concrete cases
which confront us, in the course of our daily duty,
as parents, teachers, public servants and Christian citizens.
Counsel is supernatural common-sense, a priceless treasure in the quest of salvation.
“Above all things, pray to the Most High,
that He may direct thy way in truth.”

Prayer

Come, O Spirit of Counsel,
help and guide me in all my ways,
that I may always fulfill Thine Holy Will.
Incline my heart to that which is good;
turn it away from all which is evil
and direct me,
by the straight path of Thy commandments,
to that goal of eternal life
for which I long.
Amen

Our Father and Hail Mary – ONCE.
Glory be to the Father – SEVEN TIMES.

ACT of CONSECRATION to the HOLY GHOST
To be prayed each day of the Novena

Posted in 7 GIFTS of the HOLY GHOST: Wisdom, Understanding, Prudence, Strength, Knowledge, Piety, Fear, I BELIEVE!, PENTECOST, PRACTISING CATHOLIC, PRAYERS to THE HOLY GHOST, QUOTES on FAITH, QUOTES on MYSTERIES of our FAITH, The FAITHFUL on PILGRIMAGE, The HOLY GHOST

The Indulgenced Pentecost Novena to the Holy Ghost, the Sixth Day – 4 June

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The Indulgenced Pentecost Novena to the Holy Ghost for the Seven Gifts

SIXTH DAY

Foreword and Indulgences CLICK HERE :  Foreword

If Thou take Thy grace away,
nothing pure in man will stay;
All his good is turned to ill.

THE GIFT OF UNDERSTANDING

Understanding, as a Gift of the Holy Ghost,
helps us to grasp the meaning of the truths of our holy religion.
By faith we know them but, by Understanding,
we learn to appreciate and relish them.
It enables us to penetrate the inner meaning, of revealed truths and through them, to be quickened to newness of life.
Our faith ceases to be sterile and inactive but, inspires a mode of life,
which bears eloquent testimony, to the faith which is in us, we begin to:
“walk worthily of God in all things,
pleasing Him and increasing,
in the knowledge of God.”

Prayer

Come, O Spirit of Understanding
and enlighten our minds,
that we may know and believe
all the Mysteries of salvation
and may merit, at last,
to see the eternal light of Thy Light
and in the light of glory,
to have a clear vision of Thee
and the Father and the Son.
Amen

Our Father and Hail Mary – ONCE.
Glory be to the Father – SEVEN TIMES.

ACT of CONSECRATION to the HOLY GHOST
To be prayed each day of the Novena

Posted in 7 GIFTS of the HOLY GHOST: Wisdom, Understanding, Prudence, Strength, Knowledge, Piety, Fear, PENTECOST, PRAYERS to THE HOLY GHOST, The HOLY GHOST

The Indulgenced Pentecost Novena to the Holy Ghost, the Fifth Day – 3 June

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The Indulgenced Pentecost Novena to the Holy Ghost for the Seven Gifts

FIFTH DAY

Foreword and Indulgences CLICK HERE: Foreword

Light immortal! Light Divine!
Visit Thou these hearts of Thine
And our inmost being fill!

THE GIFT OF KNOWLEDGE

The Gift of Knowledge enables the soul to evaluate created things,
at their true worth, in their relationship to God.
Knowledge unmasks the pretence of creatures, reveals their emptiness
and points out their only true purpose, as instruments, in the service of God. It shows us the loving care of God, even in adversity and directs us to glorify Him in every circumstance of life.
Guided by its light, we put first things first
and prize the friendship of God, beyond all else.
“Knowledge is a fountain of life
to him who possesseth it.”

Prayer

Come, O Blessed Spirit of Knowledge
and grant that I may perceive
the Will of the Father;
show me the nothingness of earthly things,
that I may realise their vanity
and use them, only for Thy glory
and my own salvation,
looking ever beyond them
to Thee and Thine Eternal Rewards.
Amen.

Our Father and Hail Mary – ONCE.
Glory be to the Father – SEVEN TIMES.

ACT of CONSECRATION to the HOLY GHOST
To be prayed each day of the Novena

Posted in 7 GIFTS of the HOLY GHOST: Wisdom, Understanding, Prudence, Strength, Knowledge, Piety, Fear, PENTECOST, PRAYERS to THE HOLY GHOST, QUOTES on PERSEVERANCE, The HOLY GHOST

The Indulgenced Pentecost Novena to the Holy Ghost, the Fourth Day –2 June

Posted on by AnaStpaul

The Indulgenced Pentecost Novena to the Holy Ghost for the Seven Gifts

FOURTH DAY

Foreword and Indulgences CLICK HERE: Foreword

Thou in toil art comfort sweet,
Pleasant coolness in the heat,
Solace in the midst of woe.

The Gift of Fortitude

By the Gift of Fortitude, the soul is strengthened against natural fear
and supported to the end, in the performance of duty.
Fortitude imparts to the will, an impulse and energy
which move it to undertake, without hesitancy, the most arduous tasks, to face dangers, to trample underfoot, human respect
and, to endure, without complaint, the slow martyrdom of even lifelong tribulation.
“He who shall persevere unto the end,
he shall be saved.”

Prayer

Come, O Blessed Spirit of Fortitude,
uphold my soul in time of trouble and adversity,
sustain my efforts, after sanctity,
strengthen my weakness,
give me courage against all the assaults
of my enemies
that I may never be overcome
and separated from Thee, my God
and greatest Good.
Amen.

Our Father and Hail Mary – ONCE.
Glory be to the Father – SEVEN TIMES.

ACT of CONSECRATION to the HOLY GHOST
To be recited each day of the Novena

Posted in INDULGENCES, JUNE-THE SACRED HEART, SACRED HEART ASPIRATIONS, SACRED HEART QUOTES, SACRED HEART REFLECTIONS

Devotion for June – The MONTH of the MOST SACRED HEART of JESUS – 1 June

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1 June – Devotion for June –
The MONTH of the MOST SACRED HEART of JESUS

In the early 17th Century, Devotion to the Sacred Heart was given considerable attention in the preaching and writings of St John Eudes, known as “The Apostle of the Two Holy Hearts.”

St Francis (1567-1622) in his “Treatise on the Love of God,” lays out the foundation of the Devotion to the Sacred Heart. St Francis would greatly influence St Jane Frances de Chantal who was the Foundress of the Sisters of the Visitation of the Blessed Virgin Mary, the very Order which St Margaret Mary Alacoque VHM. (1647-1690), the Visionary of the Sacred Heart, would later join.

 Our Lord appeared to St Margaret Mary, perhaps close to forty times. The first apparition occurred in the Visitation Chapel at Paray-le-Monial on 27 December 1673. The last apparition occurred less than two years later in June 1675. She saw His heart engulfed in flames and surrounded by thorns and heard His gentle voice:

“Behold this Heart which has so loved men that It spares nothing…to prove to them It’s love.   And, in return, I receive from the greater part of men, nothing but ingratitude, by the contempt, irreverence, sacrileges and coldness with which they treat Me in this Sacrament of Love.

I thirst, I burn with a consuming desire for men’s love and I find none to quench this thirst, according to My wish, by making any return of love.”

From her cloister, St Margaret Mary promoted the Feast of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, First Friday Devotion, The Twelve Promises and the Holy Hour of Reparation.

The Sacred Heart Enthronement desires to follow in the footsteps of Saints who came before and hold true to the basic request of Jesus to St.Margaret Mary, “I will bless the home in which the Image of My Sacred Heart shall be exposed and honoured.”

Sweet Heart of my JESUS, Make me love Thee ever more and more! – 300 Days Indulgence Once a day, Plenary Once a month – Pope Pius IX – 26 November 1876

Posted in 7 GIFTS of the HOLY GHOST: Wisdom, Understanding, Prudence, Strength, Knowledge, Piety, Fear, PRAYERS to THE HOLY GHOST, The HOLY GHOST

The Indulgenced Pentecost Novena to the Holy Ghost, the Third Day –1 June

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The Indulgenced Pentecost Novena to the Holy Ghost for the Seven Gifts

THIRD DAY

Foreword and Indulgences CLICK HERE: Foreword

Thou, of all Consolers best,
Visiting the troubled breast,
Dost refreshing peace bestow.

The Gift of Piety

The gift of Piety begets in our hearts, a filial affection for God as our most loving Father. It inspires us to love and respect,
for His glory. persons and things consecrated to Him,
as well as those, who are vested with His authority,
His Blessed Mother and the Saints, the Church and its visible Head,
our parents and superiors, our country and its rulers.
He who is filled with the gift of Piety, finds the practice of his religion,
not a burdensome duty but, a delightful service.
Where there is love, there is no labour.

Prayer

Come, O Blessed Spirit of Piety,
possess my heart.
Enkindle therein, such a love for God,
that I may find satisfaction
only in His service
and for His glory,
lovingly submit
to all holy obedience.
Amen.

Our Father and Hail Mary – ONCE.
Glory be to the Father – SEVEN TIMES.

ACT of CONSECRATION to the HOLY GHOST
To be recited each day of the Novena

Posted in 7 GIFTS of the HOLY GHOST: Wisdom, Understanding, Prudence, Strength, Knowledge, Piety, Fear, PENTECOST, PRAYERS to THE HOLY GHOST, QUOTES on FEAR, The HOLY GHOST

The Indulgenced Pentecost Novena to the Holy Ghost, the Second Day – 31 May

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The Indulgenced Pentecost Novena to the Holy Ghost for the Seven Gifts

SECOND DAY

Foreword and Indulgences CLICK HERE: Foreword

Come. Father of the poor.
Come, treasures which endures,
Come, Light of all Who live!

The Gift of Fear

The gift of Fear fills us
with a sovereign respect for God
and makes us dread nothing as much,
as to offend Him by sin.
It is a fear which arises,
not from the thought of hell
but, from sentiments of reverence
and filial submission to our Heavenly Father.
It is the fear which is the beginning of wisdom,
detaching us from worldly pleasures
which could, in any way,
separate us from God.
“They who fear the Lord,
will prepare their hearts
and in His sight,
will sanctify their souls. ”

Prayer

Come, O blessed Spirit of Holy Fear,
penetrate my inmost heart,
that I may set Thee,
my Lord and God,
before my face forever,
help me to shun all things
which may offend Thee
and make me worthy
to appear before
the pure Eyes of Thy Divine Majesty
in Heaven, where Thou livest and reignest,
in the unity of the ever-Blessed Trinity,
God world without end.
Amen

Our Father and Hail Mary – ONCE.
Glory be to the Father – SEVEN TIMES.

ACT of CONSECRATION to the HOLY GHOST

Posted in CATHOLIC-PRAYERS OF THE CHURCH, MARIAN HYMNS, MARIAN POETRY, NOTES to Followers, Our MORNING Offering, PRAYERS of the CHURCH, QUEENSHIP of MARY

Wishing you a Blessed and Holy Feast of our Great Queen

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Our Morning Offering – 11 February – Apparition of the Immaculate Conception at Lourdes

Hail! all Hail! Great Queen of Heaven,
Notre Dame de Lourdes
Unknown Author
First Published in 1905

Hail! all Hail! great Queen of Heaven,
Hail sweet Notre Dame de Lourdes,
‘Neath whose care our weary exile,
Is from countless ills secured.

Refrain:
Then let men and angels praise thee,
Fount of grace to all assured,
While in gladsome strains we are singing,
Hail! sweet Notre Dame de Lourdes
Hail! sweet Notre Dame de Lourdes.

Blessed thou above all others,
Mary Mistress of the spheres,
Star of hope, serenely beaming
Through this darksome vale of tears.
Refrain

Happy angels joy to own thee,
O’er their choirs exalted high,
Throned in blissful light and beauty,
Empress of the starry sky.
Refrain

As the fount is still unsealing
Its pure treasures softly fair,
May each drop be fraught with healing,
Dearest Mother, at thy prayer.
Refrain

Posted in 7 GIFTS of the HOLY GHOST: Wisdom, Understanding, Prudence, Strength, Knowledge, Piety, Fear, CATHOLIC-PRAYERS OF THE CHURCH, CONSECRATION Prayers, PAPAL APOSTOLIC LETTERS, PARTIAL Indulgence, PENTECOST, PRAYERS of the CHURCH, PRAYERS to THE HOLY GHOST, QUOTES on WATCHING, The HOLY GHOST

The Indulgenced Pentecost Novena to the Holy Ghost, the First Day – 30 May

Posted on by AnaStpaul

The Indulgenced Pentecost Novena to the Holy Ghost for the Seven Gifts

“We ought to pray and invoke the Holy Ghost,
for, each one of us, greatly needs His protection
and His aid.
The more we are lacking in wisdom,
weak in strength,
burdened with trouble,
prone to sin,
the more we should turn to Him,
Who, is the never-ceasing Fount of Light,
Strength, Consolation and Holiness!”

Pope Leo XIII (1810-1903)

Foreword

The Novena in honour of the Holy Ghost is the oldest of all Novenas, since it was first prayed at the direction of Our Lord Himself, when He sent His Apostles back to Jerusalem to await the coming of the Holy Ghost on the first Pentecost. Addressed to the Third Person of the Blessed Trinity, it is a powerful plea for the Light and Strength and Love, so sorely needed by every Catholic today. To encourage devotion to the Holy Ghost, the Church has granted the following Indulgences:

“The faithful who devoutly assist at the public Novena in honour of the Holy Ghost, immediately preceding the Solemn Feast of Pentecost, may gain a Partial Indulgence for themselves or, as an offering for the intentions of the faithful departed.”

An Indulgence of 10 years on any (and every) day of the Novena.
A Plenary Indulgence, if they take part in at least five of the exercises and go to Confession, receive Holy Communion and pray for the Holy Father’s intentions.

“Those who make a private Novena in honour of the Holy Ghost, either before the Solemn Feast of Pentecost or at any other time in the year, may also gain a Partial Indulgence for themselves or, as an offering for the intentions of the faithful departed.”

An Indulgence of 7 years on any (and every) day of the Novena.
A Plenary Indulgence under the usual conditions but, if a public Novena is held, this Indulgence is available only to those who are lawfully hindered from being part of the same.

FIRST DAY (Friday after Ascension)

Holy Spirit! Lord of Light!
From Thy clear celestial height,
Thy pure beaming radiance give!

The Holy Ghost

Only one thing is important — eternal salvation.
Only one thing, therefore, is to be feared–sin.
Sin is the result of ignorance, weakness
and indifference.
The Holy Spirit is the Spirit of Light, of Strength and of Love.
With His sevenfold gifts He enlightens the mind, strengthens the will and inflames the heart with love of God.
To ensure our salvation we ought to invoke the Divine Spirit daily, for “The Spirit helpeth our infirmity.
We know not what we should pray for as we ought.
But the Spirit Himself asketh for us.”

Prayer

Almighty and eternal God,
Who hast vouchsafed to regenerate us
by water and the Holy Ghost
and hast given us forgiveness of all sins,
vouchsafe to send forth upon us from Heaven,
Thy sevenfold Spirit,
the Spirit of Wisdom and Understanding,
the Spirit of Counsel and Fortitude,
the Spirit of Knowledge and Piety
and fill us with the Spirit of Holy Fear.
Amen.

Our Father and Hail Mary – ONCE.
Glory be to the Father – SEVEN TIMES.

ACT of CONSECRATION to the HOLY GHOST
To be prayed each day of the Novena

On my knees,
I, before the great multitude of heavenly witnesses,
offer myself, soul and body to Thee, Eternal Spirit of God.
I adore the brightness of Thy purity,
the unerring keenness of Thyr justice
and the might of Thy love.
Thou art the Strength and Light of my soul!
In Thee I live and move and am.
I desire never to grieve Thee
by unfaithfulness to grace
and I pray with all my heart to be kept
from the smallest sin against Thee.
Mercifully guard my every thought
and grant that I may always watch for Thy Light,
listen to Thy Voice
and follow Thy gracious Inspirations.
I cling to Thee and give myself to Thee and ask Thee,
by Thy compassion, to watch over me in my weakness.
Holding the pierced Feet of Jesus,
looking at His Five Wounds
and trusting in His Precious Blood
and adoring His opened Side and stricken Heart,
I implore Thee, Adorable Spirit,
Helper of my infirmity,
to keep me in Thy grace,
that I may never sin against Thee.
Give me grace O Holy Spirit,
Spirit of the Father and the Son,
to say to Thee always and everywhere,
“Speak Lord for Thy servant hears.”
Amen

Posted in NOTES to Followers

Unexpected Absence!

Posted on by AnaStpaul

So very, very sorry dear Friends!

I have been laid very low by Blinding Migraine which I have not ever experienced before and which, besides the severe pain, destorted and ravaged the vision.

I am still struggling to see, apparently depending upon the strength and cause of the Migraine, the vision can take quiite a few days to recover completely – the PC Light, naturally is also dangerous. I will be back in a short while, I pray 🙏 but will take it slowly and return initially with fewer posts.

Ana 🤗💖

Posted in MARIAN POETRY, MARIAN PRAYERS, MARIAN REFLECTIONS, The IMITATION of MARY, Thomas a Kempis

Thought for the Day – 23 May – Symbols of Mary

Posted on by AnaStpaul

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 IX
SYMBOLS of MARY

i. Honour, praise and glory to God on high, Who gives to thee, O Mary, a grace greater than that of all the women in this world and Who gives to thee, in the other world, a place of glory, near His Throne, in the highest Heaven, above all the choirs of Angels and Saints.
O glorious and admirable Virgin Mary, Mother and Daughter, of thy God, thou merit all honour and glory.
Thou art the most great in thy humility, the most beautiful in thy virginity, the most ardent in thy love, the most resigned in thy patience.
Thou art the most gentle in thy mercy, the most inflamed in thy prayer, the most profound in thy meditation, the most elevated in thy contemplation, the most sensitive in thy compassion, the most enlightened in thy counsel, the most powerful in thine help.

ii. Thy art, O Mary, the dwelling place of God,
thou art too, O Mary, the Gate of Heaven,
the garden of delights, the source of graces,
the glory of Angels, the salvation of men.
Thou art the art of living, the splendour of virtue,
the light of day, the hope of the unhappy,
the health of the sick, the mother of orphans.
O Virgin of virgins, all beautiful and fragrant,
thou hast in thyself, O Mary,
the brilliance of the stars, the charm of the rose,
the beauty of the dawn, the gentleness of the moon,
the depth of the pearl, the splendour of the sun.

iii. And in thee too, O Virgin, so gentle, pure in thy life, like to a lamb,
simple in thy heart, like a dove,
prudent in the fashion of a noble mistress,
submissive in the manner of a humble servant.
O Mary, holy tree, noble and sublime cedar,
vine heavy with grapes, fig tree covered with fruit,
cypress tall and strong, palm tree full of glory,
in thee art found gathered, all good things,
through thee art promised to us, all delights.
We all hasten then to thee, O Mary, as sons to a beloved mother,
as orphans to a mother whom they love.
Through thy merits protect us from all evil.
Through thy prayers deliver us from all peril.

iv. Prayer: O Mary, Golden Rose

O Mary, golden rose,
sweet and beautiful at once,
may my urgent prayers rise to thee!
Here I stand,
knocking at the door of thy dwelling,
assured of obtaining thy mercy,
in the midst of my sorrows and tribulations.
Indeed, thou art the Mother of mercy
and thou givest to the sinner hope of pardon.
Thour tenderness, O Mary
and thou goodness surpass all that
can be expressed here below.
Thou art elevated above the glory,
above the honours which the Saints possess,
higher than the virtues,
the benignity, the sweetness
and the charm of blessed spirits.
And if it were not thus, O Mary,
how could thou inundate the unfortunate
with so much sweetness,
with so many consolations,
with such great hope
and such great contrition.
Thou wilt never be impoverished,
for in thee is conceived the
Source of all goodness,
thou art the ornament of the Heavens
and the joy of the Saints
and thou art the Tabernacle of the Holy of Holies.
Our forefathers longed for thee for aeons.
Thou, the chosen Mother and the elected virgin,
who were to grant all pardon on earth
and all fullness in Heaven.

(By Thomas à Kempis (1380-1471)
Three Tabernacles, Chapter Ill)

Translated By:
Fr & Dr C Albin de Cigala (1865-1928)
Faculty of Paris (1947)
Doctor of Theology and Philosophy

Posted in MARIAN QUOTES, MARIAN REFLECTIONS, The IMITATION of CHRIST, Thomas a Kempis

Thought for the Day – 22 May – The Splendour of the Race, in Mary

Posted on by AnaStpaul

Thought for the Day – 22 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 (VIII)
The Splendour of the Race, in Mary

I. Perfect beauty bears a new name; it is “splendour.” Splendour is itself a virtue.
All virtue has, in effect, an active side and a passive side.
It produces works which we sec and, it is produced by causes which we do not see.
In Mary, the splendour and the illustriousness of her race ,operate these marvels which cause love and admiration to be born which, entice hearts and elevate souls.
Let us be drawn to Mary;
Trahimur ad te, we are drawn to thee – chants the Liturgy.

II. This splendour in Mary arises from her race and her descent. She is the heir of a royal line which reaches back to Joachim, to Solomon, to David, to Jesse, to Abraham, to Adam.
Flowered stem, blessed branch which was to bear the Divine Fruit of the Eucharist – Caro Christi, caro Mariae, said St Augustine.

III. Also, let us ask Mary, with the pious Author of the Imitation, for the hope which is a source of consolation, awaiting the realisation of Love in Heaven, where we shall see our Mother and our Queen in all her splendour.

MEDITATION
Feminine Beauty

Beauty is not only a brilliance, it is also a harmony of the proportions which constitutes perfection.
The man who would possess this harmony, would be the perfect man.
But there is in the beauty of a woman, a more luminous and a more delicate grace which constitutes charm.
Let her be queen or shepherdess, a great lady or a simple worker, a woman can always refine herself more than a man and arrive, at this harmonious beauty of gestures, if not of forms which will make her particular charm.
Do not doubt that this be a virtue instead of coquetry, if it is used in the service of the good and in the perfection of the soul.
All which requires effort and an effort is always an act of virtue.
Be careful then, as St Francis de Sales said, of your appearance and cultivate your heart, so that the fire which leaps forth from this heart, illumines your face with heavenly splendour equal to that of our Divine Mother Mary, the most beautiful of all women.

Practice:
To make an effort everyday, to be gracious to everyone.

Thought:
You are all beautiful, O Mary:
Tota pulchra es Maria!

Fr & Dr Célestin Albin de Cigala (1865-1928)
Faculty of Paris (1947)
Doctor of Theology and Philosophy

Posted in MARIAN TITLES, PATRONAGE - IMPOSSIBLE CAUSES, PRAYERS for VARIOUS NEEDS, PRAYERS to the SAINTS

Prayers to the Patrons Of Difficult and Impossible Causes.

Posted on by AnaStpaul

Quote/s of the Day – 22 May – St Rita of Cascia (1386-1457) Widow, Stigmatist – Patron of Impossible Causes

A Prayer to St Rita
When in Special Need

O powerful St Rita,
rightly called Saint of the Impossible,
I come to you with confidence in my great need.
You know well my trials,
for you yourself were many times burdened in this life.
Come to my aid, speak for me,
pray with me, intercede on my behalf
before the Father.
I know that God has a most generous heart
and that He is a most loving Father.
Join your prayers to mine
and obtain for me the grace I desire
……………… (here mention your request).
You who were so very pleasing to God on earth
and are so much now in Heaven,
I promise to use this favour, when granted,
to better my life, to proclaim God’s Mercy
and to make you more widely known and loved.
Amen

Memorare to Our Lady
of the Sacred Heart of Jesus
By the Missionaries of the Sacred Heart (MSC)
Patronag: Of Difficult and Impossible Causes.

Remember, Our Lady of the Sacred Heart,
what ineffable power thy Divine Son
hath given thee over His own adorable Heart.
Full of trust in thy merits,
we come before thee and beg thy protection.
O heavenly Treasurer of the Heart of Jesus
that Heart which is the inexhaustible source of all graces
which thou mayest open to us at thy good pleasure,
in order that, from it may flow forth upon mankind
the riches of love and mercy, light and salvation
which are contained therein;
grant unto us, we beseech thee, the favours which we seek.
We can never, never be refused by thee
and since thou art our Mother,
O our Lady of the Sacred Heart,
graciously hear our prayers and grant our request.
Amen

Prayer to Sts Simon and Jude
From the Liturgical Year, 1903

Great evils surround us!
is there any hope left to the world?
The confidence of thy devout clients
proclaims thee, O Jude,
the Patron of desperate cases
and for thee, O Simon,
this is surely the time
to prove thyself Zelotes, full of zeal.
Deign, thou both,
to hear the Church’s prayers
and aid her, with all thy Apostolic might,
to re-animate faith,
to rekindle charity
and to save the world!
Amen

Prayer to St Jude
Patron of Impossible Causes

It is a beautiful tradition,
associated with prayer to St Jude,
to leave a copy of the prayer in a Church
or before his Statue, Image or Shrine,
for someone else, who is in great need, to find.

Most holy Apostle, St Jude,
faithful servant and friend of Jesus,
the Church honours and invokes you universally,
as the patron of hopeless causes,
of things almost despaired of.
Pray for me, I am so helpless and alone.
Help me, I implore you,
by that particular privilege given to you,
to bring visible and speedy help
where help is almost despaired of.
Come to my assistance in this great need,
that I may receive the consolation
and help of Heaven in all my necessities,
tribulation and sufferings,
particularly ………………… (state request)
and that I may praise God with you
and all the elect forever.
I promise, O blessed St Jude,
to be ever mindful of this great favour,
to always honour you as my special and powerful patron
and to gratefully encourage devotion to you.
Amen

Posted in DOCTORS of the Church, FATHERS of the Church, ONE Minute REFLECTION, PENTECOST, The HOLY GHOST, The WORD

One Minute Reflection – 22 May – ‘ … Consider the analogy of the sunbeam … ‘

Posted on by AnaStpaul

One Minute Reflection – 22 May – “The Month of the Blessed Virgin Mary” – Ferial Day – St Rita of Cascia (1386-1457) Widow, Stigmatist – Patron of Impossible Causes – James 1:17-21 – John 16:5-14 – Scripture search here: https://www.drbo.org/

“If I go, I will send Him to you.” – John 16:7

REFLECTION – “The Holy Ghost is simple in being. His powers are many. They are entirely present everywhere and in everything. He is distributed but does not change. He is shared yet remains whole.

Consider the analogy of the sunbeam – each person on whom its kindly light falls, rejoices! as if the sun existed for him alone, yet it illumines land and sea and is master of the atmosphere.
In the same way, the Spirit is given to each one who receives Him as if he were the possession of that person alone, yet He sends forth sufficient grace to fill the entire universe.
Everything which partakes of His grace is filled with joy according to its capacity—the capacity of its nature, not of His power.” – St Basil the Great (329-379) Father and Doctor of the Church

PRAYER – Grant us, Thy servants, O Lord God, we beseech Thee, to enjoy lasting health of mind and body; and by the intercession of glorious and blessed Mary, ever Virgin, may we be delivered from present sorrow and partake to the full of eternal happiness. 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).

Posted in AUGUSTINIANS OSA, MARIAN POETRY, MARIAN PRAYERS, Our MORNING Offering, PRAYERS of the SAINTS

Our Morning Offering – 22 May – St Augustine’s Blessed Virgin Mary, Holy Mary!

Posted on by AnaStpaul

Our Morning Offering – 22 May – “The Month of the Blessed Virgin Mary”

Blessed Virgin Mary, Holy Mary!
By St Augustine (354-430)
Father & Doctor of the Church

Blessed Virgin Mary,
who can worthily repay thee
with praise and thanksgiving
for having rescued a fallen world
by thy generous consent!
Receive our gratitude and by thy prayers,
obtain the pardon of our sins.
Take our prayers into the sanctuary of Heaven
and enable them to make our peace with God.
Holy Mary, help the miserable,
strengthen the discouraged,
comfort the sorrowful,
pray for thy people,
plead for the clergy,
intercede for all women consecrated to God.
May all who venerate thee,
feel now, thy help and protection.
Be ready to help us when we pray
and bring back to us, the answers to our prayers.
Make it thy continual concern,
to pray for the people of God,
for thou were blessed by God
and were made worthy to bear
the Redeemer of the world,
Who lives and reigns forever.
Amen

Posted in SAINT of the DAY

Saint of the Day – 22 May – St Quiteria (5th Century) Virgin Martyr

Posted on by AnaStpaul

Saint of the Day – 22 May – St Quiteria (5th Century) Virgin Martyr., Princess. Born in the 5th Century in Braga, Lusitania (now Portugal) and died in Aire-sur-l’Adouron the borders between France and Spain by beheading. Patronages – against rabies and rabid dogs, against anger, of the City of Higueruela in Spain. Also known as – Kitheriammal, Quiteira, Quitterie.

The Roman Martyrology reads today: “In Spain, St Quiteria, Virgin Martyr.”

18th Century Portuguese painting of Quiteria

One will discover several Churches dedicated to Saint Quiteria while wandering between the south-west of France and the north of Spain, areas which, in the first centuries of Christianity, formed a single cultural entity. Several apostles of the area, such as Saint Saturnin of Toulouse, in fact worked on both sides of the Pyrenees. Furthermore, it should not be forgotten that a few centuries later ,a good part of southern Spain fell into the hands of the Arabs and this constituted a powerful stimulus to strengthen the Christian ties across the Pyrenees.

The centre of the cult paid to Quiteria is constituted by her ancient and valuable sarcophagus, kept since time immemorial, in the French City of Aire-Sur-Adour, in Gascony, on the banks of the Adour River, on the route which crosses the Pyrenees from north to south.

Ancient references help to strengthen the evidence of her cult which St Gregory of Tours also mentions. She is usually considered a virgin and marty, but her life is almost totally unknown.

Believed to have been a Princess, originally from Spanish Galicia, she ran away from home because her father wanted to marry her and make her renounce her personal vows within the Christian Faith.

Quiteria firmly refused and sought refuge in the Aire region but her father’s emissaries reached her and ruthlessly beheaded her. Legend tells that a dog then grabbed the Saint’s head by the hair, now detached and the depiction of this curious episode has spread the belief among the people that the Saint is a powerful defence against rabid dogs.

Quiteria is also venerated in Portugal, where, however, a different legend is attributed to her. The Martyrologium Romanum places the Feastday on the traditional date of 22 May.

Posted in ART DEI, MARIAN TITLES, SAINT of the DAY, The APOSTLES & EVANGELISTS

Beata Vergine di San Luca/ The Blessed Virgin of Saint Luke, Bologn, Italy, St Rita of Cascia, Widow and the Saints for 22 May

Posted on by AnaStpaul

Beata Vergine di San Luca, Bologna, Italy / The Blessed Virgin of Saint Luke, Bologna – 22 May, Saturday before the Feast of the Ascension of our Lord:. The Blessed Virgin of St Luke is the Patron Saint of Bologna.
HERE:
https://anastpaul.com/2021/05/22/beata-vergine-di-san-luca-bologna-italy-the-blessed-virgin-of-saint-luke-bologna-and-memorials-of-the-saints/

St Rita of Cascia (1386-1457) Mother, Widow, Stigmatist, Consecrated Religious, Mystic, – Patron of Impossible Causes, Abused Wives and Widows et al
About St Rita:
https://anastpaul.wordpress.com/2017/05/22/saint-of-the-day-22-may-st-rita-of-cascia-patron-of-impossible-causes-abused-wives-and-widows/

St Aigulf of Bourges
St Atto of Pistoia
St Aureliano of Pavia
St Ausonius of Angoulême
St Baoithin of Ennisboyne

St Basiliscus of Pontus (Died c 310) Martyr, Bishop of Comana in Pontus, Asia Minor (in modern Turkey).
His Life and Death:
https://anastpaul.com/2022/05/22/saint-of-the-day-22-may-st-basiliscus-of-comana-died-c-310-martyr-bishop/

St Beuvon (Died 986) Pilgrim, Apostle of the poor, Hermit, Knight
About St Beuvon:
https://anastpaul.com/2020/05/22/saint-of-the-day-22-may-st-beuvon-died-986/

St Boethian of Pierrepont
St Castus the Martyr
St Conall of Inniscoel
Bl Diego de Baja
Bl Dionisio Senmartin
St Emilius the Martyr
St Faustinus the Martyr

St Fulgentius (Mid 6th Century) Bishop of Otricoli , Miracle-worker, remembered by St Gregory the Great in his Dialogues.
His Life:
https://anastpaul.com/2023/05/22/saint-of-the-day-22-may-saint-fulgentius-of-otricoli-mid-6th-century-bishop/

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Bl Fulk of Castrofurli
Bl Giacomo Soler
Bl Giusto Samper
St Helen of Auxerre

St Humility (c1226–1310) Wife, Mother, Nun – a founder of Vallumbrosan Convents in the region of Faenza in Italy and is considered the Founder of the Vallumbrosan Nuns.
Her Story:
https://anastpaul.com/2021/05/22/saint-of-the-day-22-may-saint-humility-of-faenza-c-1226-1310/

Blessed John Forest OFM (1471-1538) Martyr of Oxford University, Priest of the Order of Friars Minor. Beatified by Pope Leo XIII on 29 December 1886.
His Life and Death:
https://anastpaul.wordpress.com/2018/05/22/saint-of-the-day-22-may-bl-john-forest-o-f-m-1471-1538-martyr/

St Julia (5th Century) Virgin Martyr
Her Life and Death:
https://anastpaul.com/2019/05/22/saint-of-the-day-22-may-st-julia-5th-century-martyr/

St Lupo of Limoges
St Marcian of Ravenna Bishop and Confessor
St Margaret of Hulme
Bl Pedro of the Assumption
St Quiteria (5th Century) Virgin Martyr

St Romanus (Died c560) Abbot, Protector and benefactor of St Benedict during the latter’s early years as a Hermit.
Holy St Romanus:
https://anastpaul.com/2024/05/22/saint-of-the-day-22-may-saint-romanus-of-subiaco-died-c560-abbot/

St Timothy the Martyr
St Venustus the Martyr

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Posted in MARIAN POETRY, MARIAN PRAYERS, MARIAN REFLECTIONS, The IMITATION of MARY, Thomas a Kempis

Thought for the Day –21 May – On the BEAUTY and LINEAGE of MARY

Posted on by AnaStpaul

Thought for the Day –21 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 VIII
On the BEAUTY and LINEAGE of MARY

i. O Mary, illustrious Virgin, engendered from the fruitful race of Patriarchs, nourished by the holy descendants of priests, O Mary, honoured with the dignity of Pontiffs, announced by the choir of Prophets, heiress of the grandeur of Kings, illustrious daughter of the House of David, supreme glory of the Tribe of Juda.
Sacred heroine of the valiant people of Israel, living symbol of a holy nation, miraculous child of blessed parents, thou merit glory and praise, thou merit tenderness and love.
Thou art a treasure among all women, thou, who even before the beginning of time had been chosen as the Mother of God.
The Patriarchs desired thy birth, O Mary, the wise Prophets announced thee, the just men and the Kings bore witness to thee, the people of Israel sighed for thee, until the day, when at last, thou appeared, O Mary, for the salvation of this dying world.

ii. Thy name is proclaimed in the whole universe, O Mary! from the rising to the setting of the sun, among all nations, Jews and Gentiles, Greeks and Latins, Romans and Scythians, everywhere thy name is announced with the Gospel.
Everywhere, too and everyday, thy name is preached in Churches and Chapels, in cloisters, in fields, in deserts.
It is repeated by the little and the great, by priests and doctors and preachers, who all equally seek to praise thee.
Yes, O Mary, together the choir of the just unites its harmonies and its voices, in order to chant thy attractions, thy grace and thy holiness.
Its love is so great, its love is so gentle that it can, without ever tiring, chant, contemplate, meditate and fete thy mysteries.
Mindful of the words of Wisdom:
‘Those who eat of me yet hunger for this bread,
those who drink of me still thirst for this wine.’

iii. Prayer: Come then, O Mary, Sweet Virgin Whom I Love!

Come then, O Mary, sweet Virgin whom I love!
Come then, my hope and my consolation!
Come, for when I am near thee,
when I hear thy voice,
it seems, I already possess all good,
it seems, I am sheltered from all evil,
recalling thy sweet clemency,
I come to seek refuge under thine aegis,
O Mary, thou who knowest how to give,
to the weak – strength,
to the captive – freedom,
be for me, all merciful,
be, by thy love, a mother to me.
Thus I shall know,
through having experienced it.
All those who arc faithful in serving thee,
how thou console, with charm
and how thou defend, with assurance.

By Thomas à Kempis (1380-1471)
(Soliloquy of the Soul, Chapter V)

Translated By:
Fr & Dr C Albin de Cigala (1865-1928)
Faculty of Paris (1947)
Doctor of Theology and Philosophy

Posted in DOCTORS of the Church, DOMINICAN OP, FATHERS of the Church, Hail MARY!, MARIAN QUOTES, MARIAN TITLES, QUOTES on GRACE, QUOTES on HUMILITY, QUOTES on THANKSGIVING, The BLESSED VIRGIN MARY, The LITTLE OFFICE of MARY

Quote/s of the Day – 21 May – Hail full of grace!

Posted on by AnaStpaul

Quote/s of the Day – 21 May – “The Month of the Blessed Virgin Mary”

“Hail full of grace!”

Luke 1:28

“By a woman came the flood of our ills
and, by a woman too,
our blessings have their spring.”

St Gregory Thaumaturgus (c213-c270)
“the Wonder-Worker” Bishop, Confessor, Father

“Through a woman, [Eve]
a curse fell upon the earth;
through a woman, [Mary]
there returned to the earth,
a blessing!”

St Peter Damian (1007-1072)
Bishop, Father and Doctor of the Church

“The Blessed Virgin was chosen
to be the Mother of God
and, therefore, it is not to be doubted,
but that God fitted her for it
by His graces.”

St Thomas Aquinas (1225-1274)
Doctor Angelicus / Doctor Communis

“Give thanks to Almighty God
Who resists the proud
and gives grace to the humble
and offer Him all the glory
that this Maiden accorded to His Majesty
by her practice of the richest humility
during her childhood
and throughout the rest of her life.”

St John Eudes CO (1601-1680)

Posted in CHRIST the WORD and WISDOM, FEBRUARY - THE BLESSED TRINITY (Traditional), GOD is LOVE, ONE Minute REFLECTION, QUOTES on MYSTERIES of our FAITH, QUOTES on UNITY/with GOD, The HOLY GHOST, The MOST HOLY & BLESSED TRINITY, The WORD

One Minute Reflection– 21 May – ‘ … We are lovingly embraced by means of the Holy Ghost, in eternal Love!

Posted on by AnaStpaul

One Minute Reflection – 21 May – “The Month of the Blessed Virgin Mary” – Ferial Day – James 1:17-21 – John 16:5-14– Scripture search here: https://www.drbo.org/

“I will send Him to you.” – John 16:7

REFLECTION – “The going forth of a contemplative is a heavenly life … for by means of blissful love, he transcends his creaturely state and finds and savours, the riches and delight which God is Himself and which He causes ceaselessly, to flow forth into the hidden depths of the spirit, where the spirit bears a likeness to God’s own nobility. When an interior, contemplative person has thus attained his eternal image and, in this purity and by means of the Son, has possessed the Father’s bosom, then he is enlightened with Divine Truth…

You should know that, the heavenly Father, as a Living Ground and with all that lives in Him, has turned actively toward His Son, as toward His own eternal Wisdom (Pr 8:22) and, this same Wisdom, together with all which lives in it, has actively turned back toward the Father, toward that same Ground from which it comes forth. In this meeting between the Father and the Son, there arises the third Person, the Holy Ghost, Who is the Love of Them Both and Who is One with Them in the same nature. In a way, characterised by both activity and blissful enjoyment, the Holy Ghost embraces and penetrates the Father and Son and all which lives in both of Them, with such great riches and joy, all creatures must remain silent before this, for the incomprehensible wonder which resides in this Love, eternally transcends the understanding of all creatures.

But when a person understands this wonder and savours it without amazement, then has his spirit been raised above itself and been made one with the Spirit of God; it savours and sees without measure, like God Himself—the riches which it has itself become in the Unity of the Living Ground where it possesses itself in accordance with the mode of its uncreated being … Now this blessed meeting is actively renewed in us … For just as the Father ceaselessly sees all things anew, in the birth of the Son, so too, are all things loved anew, by the Father and the Son, in the flowing forth of the Holy Ghost. This is the active meeting of the Father and the Son, in which we are lovingly embraced by means of the Holy Ghost, in eternal Love!” – Bl Jan van Ruysbroeck (1293-1381) Canon Regular (The spiritual espousals III).

PRAYER – Grant, we beseech Thee, O Lord God, unto all Thy servants, that they may remain continually in the enjoyment of soundness, both of mind and body and by the glorious intercession of the Blessed Mary, always a Virgin, may be delivered from present sadness and enter into the joy of Thine eternal gladness. 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).

Posted in DIVINE Mercy, Goodness, Patience, MARIAN POETRY, MARIAN PRAYERS, MARIAN REFLECTIONS, PRAYERS of the SAINTS, QUOTES on MERCY

Our Morning Offering – 21 May – St Jerome Emiliani’s O Mary, Twice Mother of Mercy

Posted on by AnaStpaul

Our Morning Offering – 21 May – “The Month of the Blessed Virgin Mary”

O Mary, Twice Mother of Mercy
By St Jerome Emiliani (1486–1537)

O Mary,
thou art twice Mother of Mercy
because thou hast been made
Mother of our most merciful Saviour,
and, furthermore because,
thou hast given to us
so many signs
of thy maternal care and love.
Turn upon us, we beseech thee,
thy glance of compassion
and grant, that we may always
live free from sin,
which is the only impediment
to receiving the fruits
of the Divine Mercies.
Amen.

Posted in SAINT of the DAY

Saint of the Day – 21 May – St Hospitius (Died 581) Confessor, Hermit

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Saint of the Day – 21 May – St Hospitius (Died 581) Confessor, Hermit, Ascetic, Penitent, Spiritual Guide, gifted with the Charisms of Prophecy and physical cures, Miracle-worker. Believed to have been born in Egypt in the 6th Century, he died in 581 in France. Patronage – of the French Town of San-Sospis named after him. Also known as – Sospis, Hospitus, Ospicio, Ospizio.

The Roman Martyrology reads today: “At Nice, in France, St Hospitius, Confessor, distinguished by the virtue of abstinence and the spiorit of prophecy.”

Having retired to a tower near Villafranca, not far from Nice, Hospitius led a life devoted to prayer and the mortification of the flesh. His home, now known as St-Sospis in his honour, was the scene of a life stripped of all comforts – bread, herbs and dates made up his frugal diet, while heavy chains and a rough hair shirt encircled his body.

Hospitius was not only a model of austerity but also, included among his gifts, God had graced him with the ability to foresee the future. Famous is the prophecy he pronounced about the invasion of the Lombards – he accurately predicted the raid which would devastate Nice in 574. Hospitius was seized by these raiders but his life was spared when he worked a miracle in favour of his attacker, who subsequently embraced the Faith and then the religious life and was known personally to St Gregory of Tours. It was from this former Lombardian soldier that St Gregory, to whom we are indebted for the meagre details of the Saint’s life, learned of the austerities and numerous miracles of the saintly Hermit. This Statue of the event is displayed in the Church dedicated to St Hospitius in Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat (Alpes-Maritimes, France).

Hospitius’ fame spread far beyond the confines of his tower, attracting to his hermitage, countless pilgrims in search of comfort and cures. Numerous miracles were attributed to his intercession, including the cure of a man blind from birth and another, who was deaf and mute. It is said that the very dust of his tomb possessed healing properties.

Hospitius foretold his death and died around 581, surrounded by a devotion which has never waned over the many centuries. Even today, his figure inspires the faithful with his testimony of unshakable faith, strength of spirit and self-denial. He was buried by his friend, Austadius, the Bishop of Nice.

His memory is celebrated every year on 21 May and his Relics are kept in the Cathedral of Nice and in several other Churches in the Diocese.

Information about Saint Hospitius comes to us mainly from the works of Saint Gregory of Tours, his contemporary, who briefly described his life and virtues, much of this information gleaned from a Religious disciple of our Saint. Various biographies dedicated to the Saint were written over time but unfortunately none of them have reached us.

The figure of St Hospitius is closely linked to the history of Provence in the 6th Century, a period marked by barbarian invasions and political upheavals. His prophecy on the arrival of the Lombards makes him an eyewitness to crucial events which shaped the future of the region.

Painting of Saint-Hospice interceding to the Blessed Virgin Mary, in the Chapel of Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat.
Posted in MARIAN TITLES, SAINT of the DAY

Nostra Signora degli Angeli / Our Lady of the Angels, Arcola, Italy (1556) and Memorials of the Saints – 21 May

Posted on by AnaStpaul

Nostra Signora degli Angeli / Our Lady of the Angels, Arcola, Italy (1556) – 21 May:
HERE:
https://anastpaul.com/2021/05/21/nostra-signora-degli-angeli-our-lady-of-the-angels-arcola-italy-1556-and-memorials-of-the-saints-21-may/

St Adalric of Bèze
Bl Adilio Daronch
St Ageranus of Bèze
St Ansuinus of Bèze
St Antiochus of Caesarea Philippi

St Bairfhion of Killbarron
St Berard of Bèze

St Collen (Died c600) Welsh Abbot in Denbighshire, Wales
His Devout Life:
https://anastpaul.com/2023/05/21/saint-of-the-day-21-may-saint-collen-of-denbighshire-died-c600-welsh-abbot/

St Donatus of Caesarea
St Eutychius of Mauretania

St Genesius of Bèze

St Godric of Finchale (c1070-1170) Hermit, Merchant, Pilgrim, Hymnist, Spiritual Advisor to Saints, both great and small, friend of all animals.
Biography:
https://anastpaul.com/2022/05/21/saint-of-the-day-21-may-saint-godric-of-finchale-c-1070-1170/

Bl Hemming of Åbo

St Hospitius (Died 581) Confessor, Hermit

St Isberga of Aire
Bl Lucio del Rio
St Mancio of Évora
St Nicostratus of Caesarea Philippi

Blessed Pietro Parenzo (Died 1199) Layman Martyr, Husband, Mayor of Orvieto, Reformer.
His Life and Death:
https://anastpaul.com/2021/05/21/saint-of-the-day-21-may-blessed-pietro-parenzo-died-1199-layman-martyr/

St Polieuctus of Caesarea
St Polius of Mauretania
St Restituta of Corsica
St Rodron of Bèze
St Secundinus of Cordova
St Secundus of Alexandria
St Serapion the Sindonite
St Sifrard of Bèze
Bl Silao
St Synesius
St Theobald of Vienne
St Theopompus
St Timothy of Mauretania
St Valens of Auxerre
St Vales
St Victorius of Caesarea

Martyrs of Egypt: Large number of Bishops, Priests, Deacons and lay people banished when the Arian heretics seized the diocese of Alexandria, Egypt in 357 and drove out Saint Athanasius and other orthodox Christians. Many were old, many infirm and many, many died of abuse and privations while on the road and in the wilderness. Very few survived to return to their homes in 361 when Julian the Apostate recalled all Christians and then many of those later died in the persecutions of Julian.

Martyrs of Pentecost in Alexandria: An unspecified number of Christian clerics and lay people who, on Pentecost in 338, were rounded up by order of the Arian bishop and Emperor Constantius and were either killed, or exiled, for refusing to accept Arian teachings. 339 in Alexandria, Egypt.

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Posted in MARIAN REFLECTIONS, MOTHER of GOD, The IMITATION of MARY, Thomas a Kempis

Thought for the Day – 20 May – The Grandeurs and Tenderness of Mary

Posted on by AnaStpaul

Thought for the Day – 20 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 (VII)
The Eminent Dignity of the Mother Of God

I. In the suggestive language of poetry, when we compare God to the sun, we liken Mary to the moon, as the planet which comes immediately after the greatest.
Thus it is in reality – Mary is, after God, the most beautiful and the greatest marvel of the universe.
The dignity and the grandeur of a being is due to its functions.
What grandeur more sublime, what dignity more striking
than those of “Mother of God?”
The Greeks had created purposefully, in order to designate it, a word which applies only to Mary –Theotokos, “she who has brought forth God.”

II. In the enumeration of the privileges of Mary, the beauty, the sweetness, the power, the force and the majesty, nothing equal is found here on earth.
Just as the Temple of Solomon was unique in the world, thus Mary, is unique in the order of creation.
But, if grandeur frightens ordinarily, here it attracts, for to the grandeur, is attached too, tenderness – the tenderness of a Mother!

III. Hence, the Author asks Mary, in the final prayer, for the assistance of her power and the protection of her love – “Tutamen et solomen.”

MEDITATION
The Grandeurs and Tenderness of Mary

The enumeration of the privileges of Mary is her most beautiful eulogy, says St Germain.
Thou art, O my Mother, the panegyric of all the ages and of all spheres.
Thou ary great and thou art powerful, yjou art sovereign and thou art mistress, thou art Queen and thou art woman, thou art she, who is always named and thou
art she, who cannot be named at her worth.
Thou art the Mother and thou art the ineffable.
Thy tenderness is that of a virginal heart, inserted into the flesh of a Mother.
Just as the mother gives us both of her soul and of her body in forming us within her womb, thus thou gives us of thy heart and of thy substance when we receive Jesus, thy Son, in the Eucharist.
O inaccessible grandeur, O ineffable tenderness!

Practice:
Often recite the Litanies of the Holy Virgin which are
a summary of her privileges.

Thought:
O Mary, thou surpassest in greatness and sweetness, all
creatures – “Tn snpergressa es universas, O Maria! Thy sweetness extends throughout the universe, o Mary!

Fr & Dr Célestin Albin de Cigala (1865-1928)
Faculty of Paris (1947)
Doctor of Theology and Philosophy