Saint of the Day – 1 April – Saint Valéry of Leucone (c565-c619) Priest, Abbot, Founder of the Abbey of Saint-Valery-sur-Somme, a man of Miracles and Visions. Born around 565 in the Auvergne in France and died on 1 April c619 (?) in Leuconay, today St-Valéry-sur-Somme. Patronages – of horticulturists and gardeners,of Death Row Prisoners,fishermen and of of Saint-Valéry-sur-Somme. Also known as – Valery of Leuconay, Valery of Amiens, Gualaric… Valarico… Valerico… Valerio… Walaric… Walarich… Walarico…Walaricus… Waleric… Walerico… Walericus… Walric… Additional Memorials – 2 April (enshrining of Relics) 21 May (translation of Relics at the Quintinus Basilica) 24 August (translation of Relics at the Bertinus Monastery) 12 December (translation of Relics in Amiens, France).
The Roman Martyrology reads: “At Amiens, the Abbot, St Valéry, whose Tomb is made illustrious by frequent miracles.”
Valéry was born in the Auvergne into a peasant family. Nearby was a school for the children of the wealthy citizens and Valéry begged a teacher to teach him the letters which the teacher gladly did. He could soon both read and write and his first project was to write the entire Book of Psalms and with this in his possession, he used the time tending the sheep to memorise all the Psalms
Leaving his family home, finally having convinced his father to allow him to go, he joined the Abbey of Autumo., where apparently an uncle was a Monk, He later moved to the Abbey of Saint-Germain d’Auxerre and finally, the Abbey of Luxeuil under the famous Abbot Columban. At Luxeui,l he exelled and was honoured too for his horticultural skills. His ability to protect his vegetables from insects was regarded as miraculous.
When Theuderic II, King of Burgundy expelled St Columban from his domains, Valéry and a fellow Monk named Waldolanus, left the kingdom to preach the Gospel. He eventually settled down as a Hermit at a place called Leuconay near the mouth of the Somme River. A community of disciples grew up around him.
In 613, Valéry founded a Monastery in Leuconay – today’s St-Valéry-sur-Somme – whose Monks lived according to Columban’s Rule. He converted the population to Christianity by – like St Boniface later in Hesse – having a tree felled which had been worshiped by the pagans. Tradition tells how he cured a lame man, St Blitmund, who became the Abbot of the Monastery after Valéry’s death.
The Monastery was built on the site of the former pagan tree. The village which developed around the Monastery bears our Saint’s name — Saint-Valery-sur-Somme.
Valéry died on 1 April around 619 in Leuconay. Valéry’s Relics were taken to Corbie by Huguenots but were amazingly recovered and returned to Leuconay on 12 December which is a day greatly celebrated.
The Luxeuil Monastery was abolished in 1790 during the French Revolution, the Abbey Church of St-Colomban is now a Parish Church and a school is housed in the Monastery buildings.
Saint of the Day – 27 March – Saint John Damascene (675-749) Confessor, Father & Doctor of the Church – Priest, Monk, Theologian, Writer, Defender of Iconography, Poet, a Polymath and more. Patronages – Pharmacists, Artists, Theologians and Theology Students.
John Damascene, was a Monk and Theologian, whose writings were crucially important in staunchly defending the value of visual art in communicating the Christian faith and in the acquisition and growth of devotion, piety and the worship of God alone..
John was born into an Arabic Christian family, around the year 675 in Damascus, in present-day Syria, ASas the son of Mansur, the Representative of the Christians to the Court of the Muslim Caliph. In the period following the Muslim Caliphs conquering of the City, most of the Christians who had lived in Damascus were either displaced, or forced to convert. John’s family, however, had worked with the Muslim rulers once they captured the City and John’s father had a position in the Court of the Caliphate, thus their family had been allowed to remain Christian. John’s father ensured that his son received the best education possible, providing his son with a Christian Monk as a tutor. The brilliant young John became a scholar of astronomy, mathematics, classical Greek and Arabic texts.
Some sources claim that John himself became the Chief Administrator of the Caliph’s Court. Eventually, however, John, hearing the call of Christ, resigned his life at the Court and made his way to Jerusalem, to become a Priest and Monk at the Monastery of Mar Saba, outside Jerusalem.
Wheile John was establishing himself at Mar Saba, a great debate, known as the Iconoclastic Controversy, continued to divide the Church. Emperor Leo III issued an Edict forbidding the use of images. John wrote vehemently in favour of the use of images and encouraged lay Christians to continue using them, in defiance of the Emperor’s edict. John’s treatises are beautiful defences of an Incarnation Theology and of the importance of the imagination in developing faith in Christ.
John wrote that art is appropriate for depicting a God Who became human: “I do not draw an image of the immortal Godhead, I paint the visible flesh of God, for it is impossible to represent a spirit, how much more God Who gives breath to the spirit. When the Invisible One becomes visible in the flesh, you may then draw a likeness of His form.” Indeed, “I do not worship matter,” wrote John, “I worship the God of matter, Who became matter for my sake. Do not despise matter, for it is not despicable.”
John continues to discuss the human imagination, “the mind, which is set upon getting beyond corporeal things, is incapable of doing it. For the invisible things of God, since the creation of the world, are made visible through images.” The imagination reaches towards God but needs faith, needs grace, to receive the image of God’s own self which God brings to the human being. And images are important for igniting the imagination, for “Image speaks to the sight, as words to the ear, it brings understanding.”
In 787, at the Second Council of Nicaea, forty years after John’s death in 749, John’s writings were essential arguments which were used, when the Iconoclastic Controversy was finally settled in favour of the Iconophiles—those who advocated the use of Sacred Images in Christian life.
St John Damascene at the Faculty of Theology, at the Convent of St Simplician in Milan
John wrote and adapted many Scriptural texts for musical use in the Liturgy —these texts still survive and are frequently used.
Known as the last of the Greek Fathers, John Damascene was proclaimed a Doctor of the Church in 1890 by Pope Leo XIII for his orthodox works and especially for his defence of Sacred Art.
St John of Damascus, saint who defended art’s power to move the heart and mind, to God—pray for us!
Saint of the Day – 25 March – Blessed Placido Riccardi OSB (1844-1915). Priest and Friar of the Order of St Benedict. He founded a branch thereof known as the Cassinese Congregation, a reform of the standard way of life of the Monasteries. Born on 24 June 1844 as Tommaso Riccardi in Trevi, Umbria, Italy and died aged 70 in Rome, on 25 March 1915. PATRONAGES – against Malaria, against all bodily illnesses. Also known as – Tommaso Riccardi, Thomas Riccardi. He was Beatified on 5 Dercember 1954 by Pope Pius XII.
Tommaso Riccardi was born in Trevi on 24 June 1844 to Francesco and Maria Stella Paoletti, the third of ten children. He was Baptised in the nearby Church of St Emilian and, as soon as he was reborn with Baptism, he was placed on the Altar of Our Lady of Sorrows, in an act of consecration.
In 1853 he entered the Lucarini College where he distinguished himself as attested by numerous mentions and medals, awarded to him. In 1862, when the Lucarini College was closed for political reasons, he placed himself under the spiritual direction of Don Ludovico Pieri, a holy Priest from Trevia, spiritual father and inspiration of Blessed Pietro Bonilli. In 1865, in the the act of resigning from Pieri to continue his studies in Rome, the latter prophesied his future vocation but Tommaso made a gesture of rebellion and, throwing the hat he was holding in his hand, to the ground and stepping on it, exclaimed: “If this vocation comes to me, I drown!”
Just a year later, 1866, after a pilgrimage to Loreto and a course of spiritual exercises, he knocked on the door of the Abbey of St Paul. Admitted to the Novitiate on 5 January 1867 with the name of Placido, he was Ordained Subdeacon on 2 April 1870 and Deacon on 224 September 1870.
Called up for Military Service, he took a few days to finish his exams but was immediately declared a deserter because of this delay! Having arrived in Spoleto to plead his case, since in the meantime, the Piedmontese government which also dominated Rome, had decreed an amnesty, it was discovered that his case did not fall within it and, therefore, he was arrested at the Fonti del Clitunno, while returning to Trevi. Transferred to Florence, he was tried and sentenced to one year’s imprisonment, then pardoned and sent to the Regiment in Pisa but, after medical tests, declared unfit, he was discharged on 27 January 1871. On 7 February he returned to St Paul’s where, on 10 March he made his Solemn Profession and on 25 March he was Ordained a Priest.
At The Beatification in St Peter’s Square
He held various positions: Deputy Master of Students, Master of Novices, Abbey Vicar of the Benedictines of St Magno in Amelia in two different periods. In 1994, while he was leaving the Amelia Monastery to return to Rome due to his poor health, a Nun wrote about him as follows: “Don Placido left leaving everyone in the deepest pain. Austere with himself but all charity for us, especially the sick. His charity also extended to the poor in Amelia. His virtues have aroused the admiration of the whole City!”
But the apotheosis of the humiliation and triumph of Don Placido’s sanctity occurred in Farfa, where he was sent to try to save what could be saved. The glorious Abbey, already powerful in the time of the Lombards, was reduced to miserable conditions. Overwhelmed by the latest political events and its assets passed to private individuals, the Abbot’s residence itself was absolutely uninhabitable! Don Placido turned his attention to the people, generally poor shepherds who came to him after Sunday Mass. In their extreme need, they were helped spiritually and materially. In his prodigality Don Placido regretted that he no longer even had his own personal effects to donate to the poor, since those he possessed were rejected several times because they were too poor. It is said that he also provided suggestions and medicinal remedies described in the ancient codes.
Farfa Abbey
In 1912, after almost twenty years of staying in Farfa, his body, which had always been in poor health, further weakened by a life of penance and deprivation, was so weakened he contracted Malaria and the holy man had to be brought back to Rome. He lived for another two and a half years, assisted by his disciple and friend Don Idelfonso Schuster, later Cardina, Bishop of Milan and his Biographer.
He passed away on the evening of 25 March 1915 and the following day, when his body was transported to the Basilica, the bells rang out without assistance.
In 1925 the body was moved to Farfa Monastery and in 1928 the process of Canonisation began band in the 1950s Pope Pius XII proclaimed him Blessed. .
On 5 December 2008, a day of study was dedicated to the Blessed. In Trevi the road which goes from Piazza del Comune up towards the Church of St Emilian, where our Saint was Baptised and which was since named after him, passing in front of his house, where a plaque was placed. The large square behind the Basilica of St Paul in Rome also bears his name and in Milan, a central street, parallel to Via Palmanova.
THIS IS THE HOUSE WHERE HE WAS BORN, ON 24 JUNE 1844 AND HE LIVED, FOR MANY YEARS, TOMMASO RICCARDI. WITH THE NAME OF PLACIDO ETERNATED IN THE LIGHT OF THE ALTARS FOR HIS VIRTUES – GLORIFYING SELF AND HOMELAND
FELLOW CITIZENS IN THE YEAR 1955 CELEBRATING HIS BEATIFICATION
Saint of the Day – 20 March – St Guillermo de Peñacorada (Died c1042) Abbot, Miracle-worker. Patronage – Cistierna, Spain and he is invoked for rain in times of drought and he regularly proves his worth, bringing rain whenever needed. Also known as – Guglielmo, William.
We have no information regarding the early life of our Saint today. He became a Monk in the Cluniac Monastery of Satagún in the Province of León in Spain.
In 988 he fled with the other Monks from the horrors of the Almanzor invasion. They initially took refuge in a grotto on the southern slopes of Peñacorada, near Cistierna. This rough Hermitage became a pilgrimage site and remains so today. Below is an image of the Hermitage of Saint Guillermo, which is attended by devotees throughout the year.
After quite a long period in the Grotto, Guillermo and his Friars accepted the hospitality of the Augustinian Abbey near the Sanctuary of the Virgen de la Velilla, in the northern area of Peñacorada. There, after some time, he was elected Abbot and governed with great foresight.
Upon his death he was proclaimed a Saint and immediately afterwards the Monastery was solemnly renamed in his honour.
In the year 1281, the Monastery of St Guillermo de Peñacorada was annexed by King Sancho IV to the Cathedral of León.
Postage Stamp featuring St Guillermo
His Relics are located in La Mata de Monteagudo and lhe is remembered and celebrated on 20 March.
One Minute Reflection – 19 March – “The Month of the St Joseph” and his Feast – Tuesday in Passion Week – Ecclesiasticus 45:1-6, Matthew 1:18-21 – Scripture search here: https://www.drbo.org/
“Joseph, son of David ” – Matthew 1:20
REFLECTION – “There is no doubt that Joseph was a very holy and trustworthy man, since the Mother of the Saviour was to be his wife. He was the “faithful and prudent servant” (Mt 24:45), for God established him to be His Mother’s support, the foster father of His flesh and the assistant for His plan of salvation.
We must recall, that he was of the House of David. He was son of David, not only by bonds of the flesh but even more, because of his faith, holiness and piety. God found in him, a second David, to whom He could confidently entrust His plans, even the most hidden. He revealed to him, as to another David, the mysteries of His Wisdom and disclosed to him, what no teacher in the world, could know. He allowed him to see and listen, to things that so many kings and prophets had wished to see and hear but which,, in spite of their desire, they had not been able to see or to hear (Mt 13:7), even more,, He made him carry and guide, embrace, nurture and protect Him. Both Mary and Joseph belonged to David’s race; in Mary was fulfilled the promise once made by the Lord to David, while Joseph was the witness of this fulfilment.” – St Bernard (1090-1153) (Surname de Fontaine) Priest, Cistercian Monk, The Last Father and Doctor Mellifluus (Mellifluous Doctor) (Homily on the “Missus est”, 2, 16).
PRAYER – May the merits of Thy most holy Mother’s Spouse help us, we beseech Thee, O Lord, that through his intercession we may receive what we cannot obtain by our own efforts. 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).
Saint of the Day – 3 March – Blessed Innocento of Berzo OFM Cap. (1844-1890) Priest, Friar of the Friars Minor of the Capuchins, Born on 19 March 1844 at Niardo, Brescia, Italy as Giovanni Scalvinoni and died on 3 March 1890 at Bergamo, Italy from influenza. Patronages – of children, Berzo Inferiore, Italy. Also known as – Giovanni Scalvinoni, Innocent, Innocenzo. Additional Memorial – 28 September (Capuchins), the Sunday after the Pardon of Assisi , that is the Sunday after 2 August at his Annunziata Convent.
Among the votive offerings preserved in the humble birthplace of Blessed Innocento in Berzo, now transformed into a Museum, there is a fragment of rope in memory of a miracle which occurred in the 1920s. A mountaineer, during a climb, fell into a crevice and, having no-one to help him, asked for the intervention of the humble Capuchin Friar, to whom he was devoted. A rope came from above while the movements to climb the cliff were suggested to him but, once he reached the top, he was astonished to see that no-one was waiting for him.
Giovanni Scalvinoni was born in Niardo (Brescia), his mother’s hometown, on 19 March 1844. A few months later a terrible disaster suddenly struck the young family. His father, in just two days, died of pneumonia. Giovannino spent his childhood simply — making the strong faith of the mountain people his own. From an early age he had great pity for the poor, generously giving what little he had to those who knocked on his door. He woulf retain this deeply experienced compassion throughout his life — when, as a Capuchin, he went around collecting alms, he was extremely satisfied to return to the Convent with an empty bag. That which he had received as an offering, he had immediately distributed to those in even more need than the Friars of the Convent.
He studied with excellent results in the Municipal College of Lovere (Bergamo) and from there, he moved onto the Seminary of Brescia, where he imposed a demanding spiritual disciplineupon himself. Giovanni was Ordained a Priest in 1867. Thereafter, he held various positions, including that of Vice Rector of the Seminary but each time he was removed because he absolutely lacked authority. His innate shyness led him to desire to live in solitude, between prayers and penances. On 16 April 1874 he finally began his Novitiate among the Capuchins, taking the name Innocento, at the Annunziata Convent. Four years later he made his Solemn Profession and was appointed Assistant Master of Novices.
Except for brief assignments and the preaching of spiritual exercises in some Lombard Convents, it was in the Annunziata Convent where he intensely experienced total abandonment to the Lord. Despite his excellent knowledge of theology, also passed onto his brothers, he always appeared humble and modest, with the desire to disappear and never be noticed. In love with the Eucharist (his Masses were of exceptional intensity), he stopped as much as he could in front of the Tabernacle. He loved the Crucifix very much too and the exercise of theWay of the Cross which he always recommended to his penitents.
On 3 March 1890, at the age of forty-six, he fell seriously ill and died in the Infirmary of the Convent in Bergamo. A few months later his mortal remains were solemnly transferred to Berzo. A reputation for sanctity had already surrounded him in life. On 21 March 1943 Innocento was venerated by Pope Pius XII by a Decree of Heroic Virtue and on 12 November 1961, John XXIII proclaimed him Blessed and Patron of children, protagonists of the two miracles of the recorded for his Beatification process.
Private Chapel of Innocento da Berzo in Piancogno
His writings (a few letters, diary fragments, notes for sermons), collected in a thousand pages, reveal the disarming secret of his sanctity — the unconditional abandonment in the arms of the Father. “Jesus is offended by everyone in the world — it is up to me not to leave Him alone in His affliction. The love of God does not consist in great feelings but in great nakedness and patience, for the beloved God. There is no other better means to guard the spirit, than to suffer, do and remain silent. I will have a great desire to be subject to everyone and I will have a horror of being preferred to the least.”
A path which leads to the Annunziata Convent, which he followed many times to reach various locations in Valcamonica, where he was sought as a Confessor and Preacher, is today named after him. From his cell, a destination for continuous pilgrimages, a small window allows you to contemplate the enchanting landscape of the lower valley, Lake Iseo and his native town of Berzo.
The Order of Friars Minor Capuchin commemorates his Feast on 28 September, while in the Sanctuary of the Santissima Annunziata, the Convent where the Blessed lived, the Feast is on the Sunday after the Pardon of Assisi (after 2 August).
The beloved Foster-Father and Guardian of Jesus and Protector of the Holy Family, is celebrated for this whole month and his Feast Day falls on 19 March .
“Quamquam Pluries” On the Devotion to St Joseph Pope Leo XIII
“On 10 March, [11 MARCH THIS YEAR], we begin the Novena to St Joseph, entrusting so many of our woes and cares to his holy and fatherly care and intercession. His Patronages are numerous, as we know, one of them will fit our needs perfectly and if not, then we should all ask him to intercede on our behalf for our families and for a Happy and Holy Death. On the 19thFEAST we pray the Consecration to St Joseph.”
Indulgenced Prayer to St Joseph O St Joseph! Pray for Us Daily O Joseph! virgin father of Jesus, pure Spouse of the Virgin Mother, pray for us daily to the Son of God, that, armed with the weapons of His grace, we may fight as we ought in life and be crowned by Him in death. Amen (Indulgence of 100 days, twice a day St Pius X 26 November 1906)
Patronages in Alphabetical Order:
of Accountants • Bursars • Cabinetmakers • Carpenters • Catholic Church • Cemetery Workers • Children • Civil Engineers • against Communism • Confectioners • Craftsmen • against Doubt and Hesitation • the Dying • Emigrants • Exiles • Expectant Mothers • Families • Fathers • Furniture Makers • Grave diggers • Happy Death • Holy Death • House Hunters • House Sellers • Immigrants • Joiners • Labourers • all the Legal Profession • Married Couples • Oblates of Saint Joseph • Orphans • Pioneers • Social Justice • Teachers • Travellers • the Unborn • Wheelwrights • Workers • Americas • Austria • Belgium • Bohemia • Canada • China • Croatian people • Korea • Mexico • New France • New World • Peru • Philippines • Vatican City • VietNam • Canadian Armed Forces • Papal States • 46 Diocese • 26 Cities,States and Regions.
Saint of the Day – 27 February – Saint Baldomerus of Saint Just (Died c650) SubDeacon, Lay Brother, Blacksmith. Born in Ouvacou Auditiac, near Lyon in France and died in Lyon in c650. Patronages – of Blacksmiths, Lyon, France and Nuremberg, Germany. Also known as – Baldomerus of Lyons, Baldimerus… Baldomer… Baldomero… Baudemer… Galmier…Garmier… Germier… Gaumier… Geaumier… Waldimer… Waldimerus…
Baldomerus was born in the village of Ouvacou Auditiac, near Lugdunum , now Lyon which was then part of the County of Forez . Already as a young man he practiced the trade of a Blacksmith.
He lived poorly himself, nevertheless, his care and attention was always concerned with the poor, whom he continually assisted as much as he could. In the absence of anything else, sometimes he even gave them his work tools.
He was devoted to prayer, meditation and reading the Holy Scriptures and his favourite phrase was: “Always thanks be to God.” He had a very cheerful and lively character. One day he met the Abbot Viventius (who later became the Bishop of Lyon), who, in fact, had visited the village particularly to meet our Saint as he had been attracted by the fame of sanctity that had already spread around Baldomerus. The Abbot wanted him to become a Monk in his Monastery of Saint Just in Lyon. Baldomerus immediately left his forge and followed him.
Bishop Gaudry (Ganderic) consecrated him as SubDeacon, overriding Baldomerus’ objections based on his feeling of unworthiness. He wanted to remain a lowly Lay Brother but he was able to continue to practice his craft – a much-needed art, even today but especially in the days of horses and wagons.
Statue in the Church of Montanay near Lyon
After a life of prayers, fasting and sacrifices, he died around the middle of the 7th Century, between 642 and 660
He was buried by the Bishop of Lyon, Viventius II in the Church of the Monastery of Saint-Just. His Relics were immediately the object of great veneration by the people, until the 16th Century, when they were dispersed and burned by the Huguenots. Of them, only one arm was saved which had previously been detached from the body and taken to the Church of Saint-Galmier (Baldomerus), a Town in the Loire which bears his name and is famous for its Badoit table water. ..
Saint of the Day – 25 February – Saint Caesarius of Nazianzen (c329-369) Single Celibate Layman, a prominent Physician and Politician, Son of Saint Gregory of Nazianzen the Elder and Saint Nonna, Brother of Saint Gorgonia and Saint Gregory of Nazianzen. Born in c329 in Arianzus, near Nazianzen in modern day Turkey and died in c369 in Constantinople of natural causes. Patronages – of Physicians and bachelors.
It is maintained by historical writers that, while Caesarius and his brother Gregory were very close, they were very different characters. As Gregory pursued a devout religious life, his vivacious, outgoing brother was at home in the world of Byzantine politics. The two were complementary figures; Caesarius relied on his brother to guide him through troubles, while he encouraged Gregory’s literary and rhetorical talents.
The younger son of Gregory the Elder, the Bishop of Nazianzen and his wife, Nonna, Caesarius was born at the family villa of Arianzus, near Nazianzen. He probably studied at Caesarea Mazaca in Cappadocia in preparation for the elite school of Alexandria in Egypt. His favourite studies there were geometry, astronomy and especially medicine. In the last-named science, he surpassed all his fellow students.[
His fame as a Physician spread quickly and in 355 he travelled to the Imperial Capital of Constantinople. About 3 years later, in 358, Caesarius had already acquired a great reputation for his medical skill in Constantinople, when his brother Gregory, homeward bound from Athens, arrived ther. Caesarius sacrificed a remunerative and honourable post to return with Gregory to their home near Nazianzen.
The Capital, however, soon proved to be too great an attraction for him and he returned there to eventually become an eminent Physician at the Byzantine Court of Emperor Constantius II and then, much to the regret of his family, at that of Julian the Apostate. But Julian failed in his efforts to win him over to briefly restored Paganism. Caesarius, more appreciative of his Faith than of imperial favour, ultimately left the Court but returned to Constantinople after Julian’s death in 363.
Under the Emperor Valens, Caesarius became Quaestor of Bithynia, a position which included the treasury and tax collection responsibilities. After escaping from the earthquake which shook Nicaea (11 October, 368), his brother wrote to him, pleading with him to leave his political position and withdraw to a religious life. However, Caesarius was suddenly killed by the widespread Plague which followed the earthquake, shortly after having received Baptism which he, like many others at the period, had deferred until late in life.
After his death, his very considerable estate was rapidly pillaged by servants and creditors. His brother Gregory insisted that what remained of the estate be distributed to the poor and to surviving relatives. His remains were interred at Nazianzen, where his brother delivered the funeral Sermon in the presence of his parents. In the Sermon, “On His Brother: St Caesarius” St Gregory portrays Caesarius as a model Christian devotion and asceticism, providing the main source for the details of his life and setting the groundwork for his elevation to the honour of Sainthood.
Saint of the Day – 23 February – Saint Milo of Benevento (Died c1077) Bishop, Teacher, Spiritual Guide and most zealous Shepherd of his flock and a loving father to the poor, the sick and the nedy. Born in Auvergne, France and died in c1073 in Benevento, Italy of natural causes. Patronages – of Bishops, of the poor and needy, of Teachers. Also known as – Milo of Auvergne, Milon … Milone… Additional Memorial – 25 May on some calendars.
An Unknown Bishop Saint who maybe St Milo
Saint Milo was born in Auvergne, France, in the 11th Century. From a young age he was remarkable for his piety and intelligence,and, for this reason, he was initiated into the studies required for the Priesthood. He studied in Paris, where he was Ordained a Priest and became a Canon of the Cathedral.
Milo was a man of great charity and compassion. He dedicated himself passionately to his ministry and, did his utmost to help those in need. He was also a great Teacher and was responsible for the education of several young people, including Saint Stephen of Muret, who would become the Founder of the Order of Grandmont.
The Romanesque Cathedral of Benevento
The fame of Milo’s virtues and knowledge soon crossed the borders of France. In 1068, he was elected as the Bishop of Benevento in Italy. Milo accepted the Ecclesiatical honour with great humility and dedication. He committed himself to reforming the Diocese and promoting peace and justice.
Unfortunately he was able to govern the Diocese for only two years. He died in c1070 (some sources say 1076).
Saint Milo is venerated as a Patron of Bishops, Teachers and the poor and needy. His liturgical Feast is celebrated on 23 February 23 and 25 May.
Saint of the Day – 22 February – Saint Isabella of France (1225-1270) Virgin, Apostle of the poo, the sick and needy, Founder Nun of a Convent based on the Poor Clares Order, known as the Sisters Minor and forming part of the Franciscan family. Sister of Saint Louis IX, Aunt of Saint Louis of Toulouse, Princess. Born in March 1225 in Paris and died on 23 February 1270 (aged 45) at the Convent in Longchamp, Pays de France. Patronages – of the ill and infirm, of the Royal Abbey of Longchamp. Also known as – Isabel, Isabelle. Additional Memorial 8 June (Franciscans), 8 November – as one of the Saints of the Diocese of Evry, 23, 24 and 26 February – on some calendars.
St Isabella with St Louis IX – laying the cornerstone ofthe Longchamps Convent
In Pays de France, just outside the City of Paris, along the Seine, lived King Louis VIII and Blanche of Castile, the Queen of France. The Royal couple were a holy example of Christian love and they had alreadybeen blessed with several children when their daughter, Isabella, came into the world in March 1225.
When Isabella was less than two years old, King Louis VIII died, leaving her older brother to reign as King. King St Louis IX was installed in 1226 and he reigned until 1270. His mother supervised the education of the young children, ensuring that Isabella not only learned the feminine arts butm also learned Latinm in order to study the Fathers of the Church.
Isabella demonstrated great piety from a very early age and, it must be noted, she received much support in practising her faith from her mother, her brother the King and other members of the Royal Court. Isabella dedicated her sewing skills to providing clothing for the poor and preparing Vestments for liturgical celebrations. On one occasion, as she was embroidering a new hat, King Louis IX asked her to give the hat to him. She refused, explaining, “No, this is the first of its kind and I must make it for my Saviour Jesus Christ.” When she finished it, she gave it to a poor and sick person. Then, she made another cap of similar design for her Royal brother.
Arranged marriages, common at the time, were a part of Isabella’s life from the age of two. The Treaty of Vendome, created in March 1227 and signed in June 1230, betrothed Isabella to Hugh, the eldest son and heir of Hugh X of Lusignan which was an area on the western coast of France. However, Isabella refused to celebrate this marriage. Some years later, she also refused to marry another Royal personage, Conrad, the son of the Holy Roman Emperor Frederick II. Her mother and brother both urged her to marry Conrad. Even Pope Innocent IV tried to persuade her to marry the son of the Emperor but, again she refused. When she learned of the Pope’s hope that she would marry Conrad, Isabella wrote to him explaining that she had consecrated her virginity to Christ and would never marry. The Pope, witnessing her steadfast faithfulness to Christ, admired her for her perseverance and agreed with her position. Her brother finally acquiesced and no longer tried to persuade her to marry Conrad or anyone else. Not long after this episode, their mother died.
In 1255, Isabella requested her brother’s permission to leave the Court and to establish a home for a group of devout women. . Thus, King St Louis IX undertook the purchase of some land in the Forest of Rouvray, just west of Paris, for this purpose. The cornerstone was placed on 10 June 1256 and four years later, the building was completed. On 2 February 1259, Pope Alexander IV gave his approval to the new Rule prepared by Princess Isabella. This Rule had been compiled by Fr Mansuetus, a Franciscan, who based it on the Rule of the Order of St Clare, also referred to as the Poor Clares. The Rule was approved by St Bonaventure, who was then the Minister General of the Franciscan Order. The new Monastery was called the Monastery of the Humility of the Blessed Virgin. The Nuns of this Monastery were called Sisters Minor.
The Rules were unique and specific to this group of women, being somewhat simpler than the Rules of the Poor Clares, in that the fasting was not as rigid and the community was allowed to hold property. But like the Poor Clares, these women also helped Tthe poor and needy of the neighbourhood. . The first Nuns to join this new Monastery were from the Convent of the Poor Clares at Rheims, nearly 100 miles east of Paris. Although Isabella never resided at the Monastery herself, she observed the Rules in the privacy of her home.
After a few years, Isabella adjusted the Rule and King St Louis submitted and obtained confirmation of the revised Rule. Pope Urban IV approved the new Rule on 27 July 1263, giving the Nuns of Longchamp, the official title of Sisters Minor. This title emphasised the close relationship with the Order of Friars Minor.
Isabella had refused to become the Abbess but continued to observe the Rule, as well as additional mortifications. She practiSed nearly total silence, fasted three days a week and lived a life of heroic virtue.
In 1270 Isabella died at the new house in Longchamp. The Nuns declared that when she died, the singing of Angels could be heard. She was buried in the Convent Church. After only nine days, her body was exhumed and it was still supple, suffering no decay. Not surprisingly, many miracles occurred at her gravesite. In 1521 Pope Leo X Beatified Isabella, permitting the Abbey of Longchamp to celebrate her Feast with a special office. On 4 June 1637 Isabella’s body was exhumed again and it was still incorrupt. 50 years later, on 25 January 1688, the Nuns received permission to celebrate Isabella’s Feast with an Octave observance. In 1696, on her Canonisation, Pope Innocent XII extended the permission to the entire Franciscan Order.
Saint of the Day – 6 February – Blessed Angelus of Furci OSA (1246-1327) Priest and Friar of the Order of Augustinian Hermits, Theologian, renowned Preacher, Provincial Superior. Born in 1246 at Furci, in the Abruzzi region, Diocese of Chieti, Italy and died on 6 February 1327 at the Augustinian Convent in Naples, Italy of natural causes. Patronages – of Furci, one of the more than 50 Patrons of Naples,. Additional Memorial – 13 September on some calendars (translation of Relics?). Beatified on 20 December 1888 by Pope Leo XIII (cult confirmed). Also known as Angelo, Angel.
Angelus was born in Furci in Abruzzo , Italy in 1246 to wealthy parents, who, being childless, obtained the blessing of this child through the intercession of St Michael the Archangel. These devout folks, had gone on a pious pilgrimage to St Michael’s Sanctuary, above the cave at Gargano where St Michael had appeared. At Baptism he received the name Angelus which he later retained in religion.
Educated to a high and exemplary standard by his parents, Angelus was later entrusted to a maternal uncle, the Benedictine Abbot of Cornaclano, near Furci, with whom he made rapid progress, both in science and in sanctity. When his uncle died, Angelus returned to Furci.
After his father also died shortly afterwards in 1266, he went to Vasto, where he joined the Augustinians, where he completed his required studies and rose to the Priesthood. Around the age of twenty-five he was sent to study at the Sorbonne in Paris, where he remained for five years.
After his return to Italy, he taught in various Convents of his Order, until he was assigned to the Augustinian Convent in Naples, from where he never moved again until his death. He distinguished himself as a Theologian andPreacher – indeed, historians attribute to him, a commentary on St Matthew’s Gospel – a collection of sermons which sadly today we have lost.
In 1287 Angelus was elected Superior of the Neapolitan Province. Later he refused the Bishoprics of Acerra and Melfi. He died in Naples in the Convent of St Agostino alla Zecca on 6 February 1327 and was buried there. The people, who already venerated him as a saint when he was alive, began to recommend themselves to him, obtaining favours and graces. He was later included among the Patron Saints of Naples and celebrated on 6 February and 13 September. There is also great devotion towards him in Furci, where his sacred body was transferred in August 1808. On 20 December 1888 Pope Leo XIII approved its cult ab immemorial.
Saint of the Day – 5 February – Saint Genuinus of Sabion (Died c605) Bishop , Miracle-worker. Born in the 6th Century probably in Rome and died in c605 in Sabiona, Italy of natural causes. Patronages – of the Mines and of Miners, the Diocese of Bolzano-Bressanone, Italy, the City and Diocese of Brixen, Italy. Also known as – Genuino, Ingenium, Ingenuin, Ingenuino, Ingenuinus, Ingwin, Jenewein. Additional Memorial – 13 May (translation of Relics).
Genuinus was the Bishop of Sabion in South Tyrol, a small Town which has since disappeared, the area being incorporated into a larger City – Brixen. It was located at Klausen near present-day Bressanone (then Brixen)in northern Italy. At the time, the Diocese belonged to the Archdiocese of Aquileia and only in 798 was it transferred to Salzburg.
Genuinus attended the synod of Marano in 588.
Genuinus died around 605. At the beginning of the 6th Century, South Tyrol suffered greatly from attacks by Lombards and Bajuvars and, therefore, some assume that he died as a Martyr, while others seem to think that he died in exile.
In 1141, the blessed Bishop Hartmann of Brixen (1090-1164) transferred his Relics to the High Altar of the Cathedral of Brixen together with the Relics of one of his successors, Saint Albinus (Died 1005), who was Bishop of Brixen. They are both remembered today, 5 February. A translation festival is also celebrated in Brixen on 13 May. St Genuinus is portrayed as a Bishop, most often together with his successor, St Albinus. Even the Roman Martyrology links them in one sentence: “At Brixen, the Bishops Genuinus and Albinus, whose lives were illustrious for holiness and miracles.”
The Relics of St Genuinus and St Albinus under the High Altar of the Cathedral of Brixen
Saint of the Day – 3 February – Saint Lawrence the Illuminator (Died 576) Bishop, Peacemaker – graced with the charism of granting clarity of understanding to both sides of disagreeing parties, Founded the Farfa Monastery where he died. Born in Syria and died in 576 at the Monastery at Farfa, Italy, of natural causes. Patronages – against eye diseases and blindness, of the blind – both bodily and spiritual cases. Also known as – Lawrence of Spoleto, Laurence …
Lawrence was driven into exile from Antioch, in 514, with 300 faithful during the persecution by the Monophysite patriarch, Severus of Antioch.
He was Ordained to the Priesthood in Rome and sent to preach in Umbria, where he founded a Monastery near Spoleto. He was elected as the Bishop of Spoleto and served as its prelate for 20 years. He then resigned and retired to the famous Monastery of Farfa in the Sabine Hills near Rome which he had founded.
Saint Lawrence was renowned as a peacemaker who helped the parties to see the situation from the other side. It is said that he attained the surname “the Illuminator” because he had a special gift for curing blindness – both physical and spiritual .
St Scholastica was the twin sister of St Benedict (480-547) and the Foundress of the Benedictine Nuns. As twins, St Scholastica and St Benedict were naturally born together and died within 6 weeks of each other. She is the Patron of Schools and Education, especially – tests and reading; of Convulsive children; Nuns; invoked against storms, lightening; rain. Normally prayed from 1 February until the 9th, in preparation for her Feast day on the 10 February.
O God, Thou caused the soul of Thy blessed virgin Scholastica, to enter heaven in the form of a dove, to show us the way of innocence. Grant us, by her prayers and merits, to live in such innocence that we may deserve to attain eternal joys. Through Jesus Christ, Thy Son our Lord, Who liveth and reigneth with Thee, in the unity of the Holy Ghost, ever one God, world without end. Amen. V. By the example and intercession of the Blessed Virgin Mary, Mother of the Church, keep us faithful to Thy Word. R. Hear us, O Lord. V. By the example and intercession of St Scholastica, keep us rooted in Thy love. R. Hear us, O Lord. V. By the example and intercession of all the holy virgins, keep us firm in prayer and charity. R. Hear us, O Lord.
(Mention your request here…)
Lord our God, Thou robed the virgin St Scholastica with the beauty and splendour of love. Help us to walk blamelessly before Thee, so that in the company of virgins, we may praise Thy Name forever and find our delight in Thee, through the same Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen
Saint of the Day – 17 January – St Anthony Abbot (251-356) Hermit, Founder of Monasteries, Abbot and Spiritual Guide, Mystic and Miracle-Worker, beloved of all animals. Born in 251 at Heracleus, Egyptand died on 17 January 356 at Mount Colzim of natural causes. Also known as – Anthony of Egypt, Anthony of the Desert, Anthony the Anchorite, Anthony the Hermit, Antonio Abate, Father of All Monks, Father of Western Monasticism. His Patronages are numerous – against eczema, skin diseases and rashes, pestilence, Saint Anthony’s Fire, of firefighters, of wild animals, amputees, anchorites, basket weavers and makers, bell ringers, brushmakers, domestic animals, butchers, cemetery and funeral workers and gravediggers, epileptics, farmers, hermits, monks, pigs, livestock, Hospitallers, of 29 Cities in Europe.
The Roman Martyrology says: “In Thebais, St Anthony, Abbot and Spiritual Guide of many Monks. He was most celebrated for his life and miracles, of which St Athanasius has written a detailed account. His holy body was found by divine revelation, during the reign of the Emperor Justinian and brought to Alexandria, where it was buring in the Church of St John the Baptist.”
St Anthony unknown artist Italian School
St Anthony’s Vocation Anthony was born in 251 to a wealthy family of farmers in the village of Coma, now Qumans, in Egypt. Around the age of 18-20, he was left an orphan with a rich estate to manage and with a younger sister to educate. Attracted by the evangelical teaching “If you wish to be perfect, go, sell what you have, give to the poor and you will have treasure in heaven, then come, follow me” and by the example of some Anchorites who lived nearby in prayer, poverty and chastity, Anthony’s heart was drawn to choose this path. He, therefore, sold his goods, entrusted his sister to a community of virgins and dedicated himself to an ascetic life in front of his house and then outside the town.
Seeking a penitential and isolated life, he prayed to God for enlightenment. Not far away he saw a Hermit, like himself, who sat and worked, weaving a rope, then stopped, stood up and prayed; immediately after, he went back to working and praying again. This Anchorite was an Angel of God showing Anthony the path of work and prayer which, two Centuries later, would form the basis of the Benedictine Rule “Ora et labora” and Western Monasticism. Part of Anthony’s work was used to obtain food and part was distributed to the poor. St Athanasius asserts that he prayed continually and was so attentive to reading the Scriptures that he trained them verbatim in his memory oand he no longer needed scrolls.
From the Sienese Altarpiece (1425-50) depiciting the Life of St Anthony – this image shows him as a little boy on the right and as a young adult on the left, after hearing the Gospel of the rich young man
St Anthony’s Temptations While still very young, after a few years of his solitary life, very difficult trials began for him. Impure thoughts tormented him, doubts assailed him about the advisability of such a solitary life. The instinct of the flesh and the attachment to material goods which he had tried to suppress, returned in overbearing and uncontrollable force. He, therefore, asked for help from other Hermits, who told him not to be afraid but to move forward with confidence because God was with him. They also advised him to get rid of all ties and material possessions and retreat to a more solitary place. Thus, barely covered by a rough cloth, Anthony took refuge in an ancient tomb dug into the rock of a hill, aurrounding the village of Coma. A friend brought him some bread every now and then; for the rest, he had to make do with wild berries and herbs growing around him. In this place, the first temptations were replaced by terrifying visions and noises. Furthermore, he went through a period of terrible spiritual darkness. All this Anthonye overcame by patiently persevering in faith, carrying out the will of God, day by day, as his teachers had taught him. When Christ finally revealed Himself to him as the Hermit, he asked: “Where were Thou? Why did Thou not appear from the beginning, to put an end to my sufferings?”. He heard Him reply: “Anthony, I was here with thee and witnessed thy fight”…
St Anthony’s Temptations
On the Mountains of Pispir Discovered by his fellow citizens, who, like all Christians of those times, flocked to the Hermits to receive spiritual advice, prayer and consolation but, at the same time, disturbed their solitude and meditation, forced Anthony to move further away. In the Pispir mountains there was an abandoned fortress, infested with snakes but with a spring source and in 285 Anthony moved there and remained there for 20 years. Twice a year, bread was dropped to him from above. In this new solitude he followed the example of Jesus, Who, guided by the Spirit, retreated into the desert “to be tempted by the devil,”
St Athanasius tells of the many times when St Anthony struggled against devils, not only by resisting temptations but also suffering bodily harm which they were permitted to inflict upon him. On one such occasion, “a multitude of demons … so cut him with stripes that he lay on the ground speechless from the excessive pain.” He was discovered unconscious by the local villagers, who thought him dead and brought him to their Church, here depicted in the background. (Life of Anthony 8 and 9)
The First Communities of disciples Then came the time when many people who wanted to dedicate themselves to the solitary eremitcal life arrived at the fort. Anthony went out and began to console the afflicted, obtaining cures from the Lord, freeing the possessed and instructing the new disciples. Two groups of Monks were formed who gave rise to two Monasteries, one east of the Nile and the other on the left bank of the river. Each Monk had his own solitary cave but obeyed a brother more experienced in spiritual life. Anthony gave everyone his advice on the path towards perfection of the spirit and union with God, thus operating as their Abbot from his cave.
In the Thebaid Once again, to escape the many curious people who went to the fortress, Anthony decided to retreat to a more isolated place. He, therefore ,went to the Thebaid desert, in Upper Egypt, where he began to cultivate a small garden to support himself and those disciples and visitors, who followed him. He lived in the Thebaid region until the end of his very long life. He was able to bury the body of the Hermit Saint Paul the Hermit, with the help of a lion — for this reason he is considered the Patron Saint of wild animals, of cemeteries, gravediggers and funeral workers. In his last years he welcomed two Monks who looked after him in his extreme old age. He died at the age of 106, on 17 January 356 and was buried in a secret place.
St Anthony meets St Paul the Hermit
The Spiritual Inheritance His presence had also attracted many people to the Thebaid eager for a more spiritual life. Many chose to follow his style, thus Monasteries arose among those mountains. The desert was populated by Monks, the first of that multitude of consecrated men, who in the East and the West, continued the path he had begun, expanding it and adapting it to the needs of the times. His disciples handed down his wisdom to the Church, collected in 120 sayings and 20 letters. In Letter 8, Saint Anthony wrote: “Ask with a sincere heart for that great Spirit of fire which I myself have received and it will be given to you.”
The Last Rites and Death of St Anthony
Protection against Shingles (Herpes Zoster) In 561 his tomb was discovered and the Relics began a long journey through time and space, from Alexandria to Constantinople, until arriving in France, in the 11th Century, in Motte-Saint-Didier, where a Church was built in his honour. Crowds of sick people flocked to venerate his Relics in this Church, especially those suffering from skin eruptions, caused by the poisoning of a fungus present in rye, used to make bread (or so it was thought). The disease, now scientifically known as herpes zoster, was known since ancient times as ‘ignis sacer’ (sacred fire) due to the burning sensation it caused. Also for this reason, our Saint is invoked against skin diseases in general. To house all the sick people who arrived, a hospital was built and a brotherhood of religious people was founded, the ancient hospital order of the ‘Antoniani.’ Hence the Patronage of Hospitallers. The village took the name of Saint-Antoine de Viennois.
The Tau Staff is visible in St Anthony’s hand
The Pig, the Fire, the “Tau” The Pope granted the Antonians the privilege of raising pigs for their own use and at the expense of the community, so the piglets could move freely between courtyards and streets; no-one touched them, if they wore an identification bell. Their fat was used to treat ergotism, which was called “sickness. Antonio” and then “fire of St Anthony.” For this reason, in popular religiosity, the pig began to be associated with the great Egyptian Hermit, later considered the Patron Saint of pigs and by extension, of all domestic and stable animals. In his iconography, in addition to the pig with the bell, there also appears the T-shaped Hermits’ staff, the “tau” the last letter of the Hebrew alphabet and, therefore, an allusion to the last things and destiny. A popular legend which connects his iconographic attributes, narrates that Saint Anthony went to hell to contend with the devil for the souls of the dead. While his little pig, sneaking in, created havoc among the demons, he lit his tau-shaped stick with infernal fire and took it out together with the recovered little pig — he gave fire to humanity, lighting a pile of wood.
Popular devotion On the day of his liturgical memory, the stables are blessed and the domestic animals are brought to be blessed. In some countries of Celtic origin, Saint Anthony took on the functions of the divinity of rebirth and light, Lug, the guarantor of new life, to whom wild boars and pigs were consecrated. Therefore, in various works of art, there is a boar at his feet. Patron of all those involved in processing pigs, alive or slaughtered, he is also the Patron of those who work with fire, such as firefighters because he cured that metaphorical fire which was Herpes Zoster. Even today, on 17 January, especially in agricultural villages and farmhouses, it is customary to light the so-called “St Anthony’s bonfire which had a purifying and fertilising function, like all the fires which marked the transition from winter to the imminent spring. The ashes, then collected in the home braziers of the past, were used to heat the house and, using a special bell made with wooden slats, to dry damp clothes. Venerated throughout the Centuries, his name is among the most widespread in Catholicism. Saint Anthony of Padua himself, precisely to indicate his desire for greater perfection, chose to change the name received at his Baptism to that of our Saint today.
The Life of St Anthony by St Athanasius: https://www.youtube.com/watch? v=XiKDl_lOb74&list=PL5_ax08Z6UX9h2VWw84sk4zcAQUliDUo7
Saint of the Day – 16 January – Saint Honoratus of Arles (c350-c429) Bishop and Confessor, Monk and Abbot, Miracle-worker, Founder of the renowned Monaster at Lérins. on the Iles-de-Lérins, the Lérins Islands, outside present-day Cannes. Born in c350 in northern Gaul (modern France) and died in January 429 of natural causes, Patronages – against and for rain, against drought. Also known as – Honorat, Honore, Honoratus of Lérins.
The Roman Martyrology reads today: “At Arles, St Honoratus, Bishop and Confessor, whose life was renowned for learning and miracles.”
This Statue of St Honoratus resides in Barcelona – Basílica de la Mercè
Honoratus and his brother, also a Saint, Venantius were of a noble pagan family of Roman heritage, their father being a Roman Consul to Gaul in the north of modern France. Honoratus was born around the year 350 probably in Lorraine or possibly in Trier in present-day Germany.
After receiving an outstanding education in the liberal arts both Honoratus and his brother became Christians and in 368, under the instruction and guidance of St Caprasius (died around 430), a holy Hermit of Lérins, the two brothers embarked, from Marseilles, on a pilgrimage to the Holy Land and the Desert Monks in Egypt and Syria, speciafically aimed at studying monasticism.
The sudden death of Venantius and illness of Honoratus in Greece, prevented further travels. St Caprasius and our Saint, returned home through Italy stopping at Rome. On their return to Gaul, Honoratus went on into Provence. There in around 405, encouraged by St Leontius the Bishop of Fréjus (Died c488), he was Ordained a Priest and took up his abode on the wild Lérins Island today named after him — the Île Saint-Honorat, with the intention of living there in solitude.
Numerous disciples soon gathered around Honoratus, including St Lupus of Troyes, St Eucherius of Lyon and St Hilary of Arles (who was our Saints’ nephew[?]). Thus was founded the Monastery of Lérins which has enjoyed so great a celebrity status and which was, during the 5th and 6th Centuries, a nursery for illustrious Bishops and remarkable Ecclesiastical writers. His Rule of Life was chiefly borrowed from that of St Pachomius. It is believed too that the glorious St Patrick trained there for his missionary work in Ireland. The famous Monastery of Lerinum (Lérins) which stands there to this day, the oldest existing Monastery in Europe, is today inhabited by Cistercians. Many visitors also found their way to Lérins, among them Saint John Cassian . He called the foundation at Lérins “en ingens fratrum coenobium — a great community of brothers.”
Honoratus’ reputation for sanctity was such that in 426, after the assassination of Patroclus, Archbishop of Arles, he was summoned from his solitude to succeed to the government of the Diocese which the Arian and Manichaean beliefs had greatly disturbed. He appears to have succeeded in re-establishing order and orthodoxy, while still continuing to direct, from afar, the Monks of Lérins.
He died in the arms of Hilary, his disciple and nephew, who was to succeed him in the See of Arles. Almost immediately after his death in around 430, Hilary wrote the “Sermo de Vita Sancti Honorati” probably in 430.
In 1391, Honoratus’ Relics were transferred to Lérins and his Tomb now stands empty under the High Altar in the Church named after him in Arles. His Relics have, since 1788, been in the Church of Notre-Dame in Grasse in the south of France, north-west of Cannes. There he was later honoured as “St Transitus” (Latin transitus = the moved) – possibly moved for safety during the Revolution.
Honoratus’ various writings have not been preserved, nor has the Rule which he gave to the solitaries of Lérins. St John Cassian, dedicated several of his “Conferences” to our Saint Honoratus.
Saint of the Day – 15 January – Saint Bonitus of Clermont (c623-706) Bishop, Confessor, Chancellor of the Kingdom, Governor of Provence, Diplomatic peacemaker, Protector of Slaves and active advocate for its abolition, a man of deep devotion and Asceticism, Promoter of monasticism, builder of Churches and Monasteries., Miracle-worker. Heir to a rich heritage, he used his resources not only to beautify Churches and Monasteries but also, to relieve the miseries of the poor. Bonitus is a much loved and endearing Saint in France and, in some ways, a very modern figure. Born in c623 in Auvergne, France and died in 706 in Lyon, France of natural causes. Patronages – against leg ailments (gout), of Clermont and Lyons, France, of Bonito, Italy. Also known as – Bonet, Bonito, Bonnet, Bont, Bunìto, Bunìtë, Bonnite.
The Roman Martyrology reads: “At Clermont, in Auvergne, St Bonitus, Bishop and Confessor.”
Bonitus was born in Auvergne around 623–630 (but the place is unknown, probably Clermont). He came from a large aristocratic family from Auvergne, who held important positions in France (like many Bishops at that time). He made, perhaps in Clermont, very careful studies in law, grammar and literature, in order to prepare himself for a political career. He was thus noticed by King Sigebert II who entrusted him with high functions at Court. After the death of his father, he became the Chancellor of King Sigebert III, then, in around 677, he was sent to Marseille as the Governor of Provence.
He exercised this function with great gentleness (while the time was particularly marked by violence). He strongly opposed the sale of slaves and bought back those he could reach, to free them. Despite his responsibilities, he practiced severe asceticism and demonstrated great piety. This is how the cult of Saint Sidoine Apollinaire (former Bishop of Clermont) would have developed early in Provence, and this thanks to the action of Bonitus (he indeed had great admiration for this Bishop who courageously defended the Province of Auvergne against the Visigoths).
Bonitus’elder brother, St Avitus, was then the Bishop of Clermont. Feeling his death approaching, he persuaded his entourage and the faithful of Clermont, to elect Bonitus in his place. This was done around 689 or 690, with the consent of the clergy and the approval of the King (according to the tradition of the time).
His Episcopate in Clermont extended over approximately ten years, illustrated by his piety and charity. He gave new impetus to the famous Episcopal school (founded at the beginning of the 6th Century) responsible for training young clerics. He also took care of the training of his clergy and organised missions in regions which were still poorly Christianised — these missions seemed a novelty for the time.
He favoured the monastic expansion then underway, either by encouraging the restoration of ruined Monasteries (for example the Abbey of Menat by a young Monk Ménélée), or by establishing new Monasteries (perhaps Royat, Chamalières, Beaumont…) , or by favouring founders (for example Calmin who built Mozac). In his undertakings, Bonitus benefited from the friendly assistance of the pious Count Genèsius who then Governed Auvergne.
Inhabited by profound piety, Bonitus was also concerned with liturgical celebrations — instituting a solemn fast and then a famous and miraculous procession of prayer which he ordered in Clermont, to pray for the cessation of the long drought which was desolating Auvergne and, an abundant rain poured down and alloweda beneficial and a succesful and long-awaited harvests!.
However, after ten years of Episcopate, he was assailed by scruples. Bonitus resigned his Seat and retired, as a penance, as a simple Monk at the Benedictine Abbey of Manglieu. In fact, he thought that his designation as Bishop had not been valid and that it was hardly reconcilable with Canonical rules because he had been chosen by his brother. Feeling remorseful, when he was the Bishop, he sought advice from several Monks, including the renowned Monk Tillo, of the Abbey of Solignac, near Limoges, who suggested he resign. What motivated his decision. (We can also assume that his appointment had perhaps caused resentment among high-ranking Priests, including the one who would be his successor, Nordebert…).
After having practiced monastic life for some time in Manglieu, he decided to undertake, despite his great age, a pilgrimage to Rome via Lyon, where he stayed for a time in the Monastery of Isle-Barbe. In reality,, he was sought out in Manglieu, in order to settle various disciplinary or doctrinal disputes which had arisen in the Lyon region and in the north of Italy. This is how, among other things, he resolved a conflict between the Bishop of Lyon and the Duke of Burgundy and, as a wise advisor, he succeeded in appeasing the revolt between the King of Lombard and his subjects. We can sense here the experience of the politician he once was.
Then, arriving in Rome, he made his devotions at the Tombs of the Apostles Peter and Paul and then he started his journey his way back home. During this period, he returned with captives, whose freedom he had purchased in Rome and, according to reports, he performed miracles with the oil brought from the Tomb of Saint Peter.
Finally, he returned to Lyon where he lived for four years in a Monastery and took care to re-establish good relations with his successor in Clermont. In 706, therefore, very old, he died in Lyon of an attack of gout. His body, believed to be miraculous, was then placed in the Saint-Pierre Monastery of this City.
The Bishop of Clermont requested the transfer of his remains to Auvergne. It was not without many difficulties — Clermont and Lyon fought over the Relics! Finally, after six years of negotiations, he sent the Abbot of Manglieu (the same one who had welcomed Bonitus into his Monastery) to Lyon to settle this long dispute. And the Relics were brought back triumphantly to Clermont. The translation would have taken place around 712(?) and the remains deposited in the Saint-Maurice Church, a very old Church which was restored for the occasion. It was located below the Poterne, near the current Rue Sidoine Apollinaire and this cCurch then became a place of pilgrimage, it also took the name of Saint Bonitus (later, it woulf be destroyed under the Revolution).
In 1095, the Relics were transferred to the recently built cathedral and placed in a chapel in the apse which will bear his name. In the 13th century, in the new Gothic cathedral, the chapel dedicated to Saint Bonnet was decorated with a set of stained glass windows which tell the story of his life in a slightly legendary way! A beautiful reliquary of gilded silver was made to enclose his relics. But it was destroyed during the Revolution and its relics disappeared.
Bonifus’ fame was significant and numerous Relics of the Saint were scattered in various places (as was often the custom, especially during the Middle Ages). This is why a certain number of places and Churches bear his name in France, particularly in the Diocese of Lyon, Marseille, Autun and, especially in Auvergne in the vast territory of the former Diocese of Clermont. Today, in the area of Puy-de -Dôme (therefore, the current Diocese of Clermont), he is the Patron of 17 Churches.
In order to establish his biography, historians were able to rely on a reliable source, being the “Vita Sancti Boniti = The Life of Saint Bonitus” written shortly after his death by a Monk from Manglieu. He wrote down what he had learned, often from direct witnesses (including the Abbot of Manglieu). Subsequently, much later legends were written which took pleasure in embellishing his life but, they at least testify to the popularity of the Saint and the fervour of his cult (he was invoked particularly for leg ailments). He was the 28th Bishop and he closes (to this day!) the list of holy Bishops of Clermont. Currently his Feast is celebrated in the Diocese on 16 January (supposed day of his death) but the 1914 Roman Martyrology which is used for the Traditional Calendar, shows his day and festival as 15 January.
The above graceful and factual rendition of our Saint Bonitus’ life, is from the Diocese of Clermont.
Saint of the Day – 14 January – St Hilary (315-368) Confessor, Bishop, Father and Doctor of the Church, Writer, Philosopher, Theologian, Preacher, Defender of the Faith, Doctor of the Divinity of Christ, Miracle-worker. The “Hammer of the Arians” and “Athanasius of the West.” Patronages – against rheumatism, against snakes and snakebites, children with learning impediments, children learning to walk, lawyers, mothers, of the sick, of La Rochelle and Poitiers in France,4 Cities in Italy. Also known as – Ilario di Poitiers, Malleus Arianorum.
The Roman Martyrology reads yesterday, 13 January the day of his death: “At Poitiers, in France, the birthday of St Hilary, Bishop and Confessor of the Catholic Faith which he courageously defended and for which he was banished for four years to Phrygia, where, among other miracles, he raised a man from the dead. Pope Pius IX declared him a Doctor of the Church. His festival is celebrated on the 14th day of this Month.”
This staunch defender of the Divinity of Christ was a gentle and courteous man, devoted to writing some of the greatest theology and was like his Master in being labeled a “disturber of the peace.” In a very troubled period in the Church, his holiness was lived in both scholarship and controversy.
Raised a pagan, he was converted to Christianity when he met his God of nature in the study of Sacred Scriptures. His wife was still living when he was chosen, against his will, to be the Bishop of Poitiers in France. He was soon involved in the immense fight against what became the scourge of the 4th Century, -Arianism which denied the Divinity of Christ.
The heresy spread rapidly. St Jerome said “The world groaned and marvelled to find that it was Arian.” When Emperor Constantius ordered all the Bishops of the West to sign a condemnation of Athanasius, the great Defender of the Faith in the East, Hilary refused and was banished from France to far off Phrygia. Eventually he was called the “Athanasius of the West.”
While in Phrygia, however, he continued to govern his Diocese, as well as writing two of the most important of his contributions to theology. While there, he was invited by some semi-Arians (hoping for reconciliation) to a Council the Emperor called to counteract the Council of Nicea. But Hilary predictably defended theTruth of the Church and when he sought public debate with the heretical bishop who had exiled him, the Arians, dreading the meeting and its outcome, pleaded with the Emperor to send this troublemaker back home to the small Town of Poitiers, where his enemies hoped he would fade into obscurity. Hilary was welcomed by his people but he continued the fight against the heretics without ceasing.
While Hilary closely followed the great St Athanasius, in exegesis and Christology respectively, his work shows many traces of vigorous independent thought. St Jerome and others consider our St Hilary as the first Catholic Hymnist. Hilary is the pre-eminent Latin writer of the 4th Century (before Sts Ambrose and Augustine) and his works continue to be highly influential. Remember this Hymn we prayed yesterday for the Octave of the Epiphany and the Baptism of the Lord:
Jesus Refulsit Omnium Jesus, Light of All the Nations By St Hilary (315-368) Father & Doctor of the Church Doctor of the Divinity of Christ
Jesus, the merciful Redeemer of all nations, shone forth on this day; let the faithful of every race celebrate Him in their songs of praise.
A Star, shining in the heavens, announces His Birth; it leads the way and guides them to His Crib.
Prostrating, they adore the Infant wrapped in swaddling clothes; they confess Him to be the true God, offering Him their mystic gifts.
Thirty years of His life had passed and He, the infinitely pure God, seeks the laver of baptism.
John, the favoured Baptist trembles as he bends the head of Jesus beneath the waters–that Jesus whose Blood was to purify the whole earth from its sins.
The Divine Voice of the Father is heard from Heaven, bearing testimony to His Son and the Holy Ghost, too, is present, the Giver of holy grace.
We beseech Thee in humble supplication, O Jesus! protect Thy people; we ask it of Thee by the power Thou didst show when Thou didst command the water to be changed into wine.
May praise, honour and all power be to the Trinity forever and forever. Amen
(Verses 4-6 omitted on the image). I could not find the name of the Translator of this version of this Hymn, often referred to as “the oldest” Christmas Hymn.
Saint of the Day – 9 January – Saint Marcellinus of Ancona (Died c577) the Fifth Bishop of Ancona, Italy.Born in Ancona and died there on 9 January in c577 of natural causes. Patronages – against fire (a raging fire ceased by St Marcellinus waving his prayer book at it; the book survived the fire with only slight damage; afterwards, people who touched it, while praying, were cured of ailments), of Ancona, Italy. Also known as – Marcellin, Marcellino.
The Roman Martyrology reads: “At Ancona, St Marcellinus, Bishop, who, according to St Gregory the Great, miraculously delivered that City from destruction by fire.”
Marcellinus, of the noble family of Boccamaiori, became the Fifth Bishop of Ancona in 539. At that time, the Church of Santo Stefano acted as the Cathedral. According to a Vita of the Saint, instead of being proud of the high office which had been entrusted to him, Marcellinus mortified himself with fasting and continual penance which he offered to God, together with vigils, prayers and works of charity.
In his Dialogues, St Gregory the Great (540-604) called him “a man of venerable virtue” and recalled the miracle when he extinguished a fire which was devastating Ancona.
In the Istoria d’Ancona, written in the first half of the 19th Century by Abbot Antonio Leoni, who drew upon a number of ancient sources, we read what happened when the fire “untreated at first” was fuelled by the wind. The City’s inhabitants implored the help of their Bishop who, after raising his eyes to Hea in prayer, was carried on a chair (he had difficulty walking due to a severe attack of gout) to the point where the fire was most threatening. There, he held out and read from the Evangeliary containing the passages of the synoptic Gospels, with notes relating to the Liturgical use of Ancona. The Evangeliary was partly scorched by a sudden upsurge of the flames which, however, went out the instant the Saint suddenly shut the book, to everyone’s gratitude.
A portion of the Evangeliary which was damaged
The Evangeliary of Saint Marcellinus, on the eve of the Saint’s Feast, is carried in procession through the City’s streets and is still kept in the Diocesan Museum of Ancona, after being restored in the 20th Century. Sick people who touched it regained health; the son of a noble family remained unharmed in the midst of a fire into which the devil had thrown him, out of envy at the veneration shown to Marcellinus by the youth; a fire in a village near Ancona immediately ceased when the prayer book was brought there.
Early 1300s Statue of St Marcellinus
The first Cathedral in Ancona is commemorated by an inscription on the Primary School which is now built on this site.
St Marcellinus’ Relics , circa 1756, in the Crypt of Ancona Cathedral
Saint of the Day – 8 January – Saint Albert of Cashel (Died c600) Bishop(?), Missionary. Born in England and died in 800 at Regensburg, Germany of natural causes. Patronages – against arthritis, of Cashel, Ireland, the Archdiocese of Cashel and Emly, Ireland. Also known as – Albert of Regensburg, Alberto. The name ‘Albert’ means “shining through nobility” (From the Old High German). Canonised on 19 June 1902 by Pope Leo XIII.
Traditionally held to be an Englishman who worked in Ireland and then Bavaria in modern Germany, together with St Erhard of Regensburg who died in the 7th Century and is believed to have been Albert’s brother.
Albert worked mainly around the City of Cashel, in Ireland and itraditionally held to have been the Bishop of that City and today he is reverred as the City’s and the Diocesan Patron Saint. There is a chronilogical error regarding Albert’s life in that the Diocese of Cashel was only founded in 1111.
In a legendary 12th Century Vita, he is called “natione Anglus, conversatione Angelicus – by race an Angle, in manners an Angel!”
Our Saint and St Erhard of Regensburg, evangelised and went on pilgrimage to the Holy Land together. They separated when Albert went to Ireland and Erhard remain in Regensburg. According to tradition, Albert became Archbishop of Cashel in County Tipperary in Ireland. Out of longing for his brother Erhard, Albert finally returned to Regensburg, where Erhard had since died. Albert prostrated himself crying at his grave in what was then the Niedermünster Monastery. Albert died soon after and his grave is next to Erhard ‘s.
Albert was Canonised by the confirmation of his cult on 19 June 1902 (the group “Albert , Asicus and Carthagus – Bishops, and their 22 Irish companions”) by Pope Leo XIII. His memorial day is 8 January in the Archdiocese of Cashel and Emly but 19 January is also mentioned. He is celebrated all over Ireland. It is recorded that Albert suffered from arthritis, hence his patronage of this illness.
St Albert’s Reliquary in the Church of the Niedermünster Monastery in Regensburg.
Saints of the Day – 6 January – Saint Caspar, Saint Melchior and Saint Balthasar, (1st Century) otherwise known as the Three Wise Men/Kings or the Magi – they were all Martyrs. Patronages – against epilepsy/of epileptics, against thunder, furriers, motorists, pilgrims, playing card manufacturers, sawmill workers, travellers, travelling merchants, Cologne, Germany, Saxony. Additional Memorials – 23 July (translation of Relics); 24 July (Cologne, Germany where their Relics lie).
“And entering into the house, they found the child with Mary His Mother and falling down they adored Him and opening their treasures, they offered Him gifts; gold, frankincense and myrrh.” – Matthew 2:11
The Three Kings brought Jesus Gold — to show that He was a King; Frankincense to honour Him as God and Myrrh to greet Him as man. These Kings first saw the Star which led them to Bethlehem, on the previous 25 March — the day and at the moment, on which Jesus was conceived in the womb of the Blessed Virgin Mary by the power of the Holy Ghost.
It took the Magi nine months and twelve days to reach Bethlehem, guided by the Star. The Star left them when they were in Jerusalem. But it shone again after the Kings left Jerusalem and led them to the cave of Bethlehem.
Our Lady let each of the Kings hold Jesus in his arms. They were given some of His baby clothes to bring back to the East by way of Relics. The Kings returned to the East, to Persia and later were Baptised there by Saint Thomas the Apostle, in the year 40.
All three of the Kings were Martyred for the Catholic Faith. Their names are now and should always be called, Saint Caspar, Saint Melchior and Saint Balthasar. The bodies of Saint Gaspar, Saint Melchior and Saint Balthasar were first brought to Constantinople and then to Milan and in the 12th Century they were placed in the Cathedral of Cologne, in Germany, where they are venerated with much love by the Catholics of all the world.
Around the year 1200, the Cologne Cathedral Chapter commissioned the creation of this Golden Shrine to house the bones of the Magi.
These Relics which were brought from Milan to Cologne in 1164 by ArchbishopRainald of Dassel, remain there to this day.
The precious Reliquary is decorated with gems, intaglios and cameos. The sides of the Shrine feature images of the Prophets and the Apostles, seated beneath rows of arches while the front-facing end, depicts three manifestations of Christ; the adoration of the Magi on the left, the Baptism in the Jordan on the right and the Last Judgement – above.
For centuries, pilgrims have come from all over Europe and the world, to venerate the Relics in the Shrine.
Prayer for the Intercession of the Three Kings, Saint Caspar, Saint Melchior and Saint Balthasar (By Cologne Cathedral)
Lord and God Thou created us for a lifelong journey to Thee. Each one of us takes a different path, over mountains and through valleys, through joy and sorrow and need. May the Three Holy Kings guide us in our wanderings, as their faith, knowledge and determination guided them through many perils on their journey to Thee. They saw Thee, knelt before Thee, offered up their gifts and paid homage to Thee, They were filled with the joy of finding Thee!
Lord and God, We thank Thee for granting us the freedom to seek and find Thee, our life’s goal! Grant us the faith, strength and trust we need, to follow in the path of the Three Kings. Give us courage when we are risk of taking easier but false paths, Let us experience the joy of being with Thee at the end of our journey, so that we may be eternally surrounded by Thy Love. We ask this, through Jesus Christ our Lord. the destination of every pilgrimage. Amen!
(An Imprimatur has been granted for this publication – Cologne Cathedral)
Saint of the Day – 5 January –S aint Syncletica (c320-c400) Virgin, Anchorite, Mystic, Spiritual Guide, Abbess in the Sketic Desert? Name means: “the chosen one” (From the Greek). Syncletica was born around 320 in Alexandria in Egypt and died there of natural causes in around 400. Patronages – against bodily ills, against loss of parents, against temptations, of the ill, of single laywomen. Also known as – Sincletica.
The Roman Martyrology reads: “St Syncletica, whose noble deeds have been recorded by St Athanasius.”
According to tradition, Syncletica came from a rich and pious family and is reputed to have been very beautiful. From childhood, however, Syncletica was drawn to a life of holiness and piety. She rejected several marriage proposals for she wished to lead a virtuous life devoted to her heavenly Spouse alone.
After the death of her parents, she distributed her inheritance to the poor and with her younger blind sister, Syncletica abandoned the life of the City withdrawing into a cave as a Recluse. Her holy life soon gained the attention of locals and, gradually, many women joined her to live as her disciples in Christ, teaching them the ascetic way of life.
She was mystically gifted. At the end of their lives, the tempter asked God for permission to test them – just as he had done with Job. Syncletica was tormented by many sufferings but despite her old age, she remained steadfast in her faith and asceticism until she died at the age of 84.
About 40 sayings have been preserved of and about Syncletica. Her life story probably dates to the 5th Century.
We are exposed to many temptations in life. Syncletica advises how we should deal with them:
“The devil’s snares are common. If he cannot dissuade the soul through poverty, then he brings wealth as a lure. If he cannot do anything through disgrace, then he withholds praise and honour from her. If he has to accept defeat through health, he makes the body sick. If he cannot deceive with his desires, then he tries to bring about a change through unwanted efforts. He brings about certain very serious illnesses if he is allowed to, in order to darken the love of God in those who become faint-hearted. Then the body is worn out by the most violent fever and is harassed by unbearable thirst. If you, as a sinner, have to endure this, then remember the coming punishment and the eternal fire and the torments inflicted by the Judge and do not be discouraged because of the present. Rejoice that God has visited you, and have that sweet word on your tongue – God has chastened me but has not delivered me to death (Psalm 117:18). You were like iron but with fire you burnt away the rust but if you, as a righteous person, fall into sickness, you will progress from greatness to greaterness. You are gold but through fire you become even more proven.
An Angel has been appointed to you for the flesh (2 Corinthians 12:7). Be happy! See who you have become like! For you were worthy of the lot of St Paul . … In such exercises let us form our souls. Because we see the enemy before our eyes!” (Compiled by Abbot em. Dr Emmeram Kränkl OSB Benedictine Abbey Schäftlarn – for the Katholische SonntagsZeitung).
Fresco in the Chapel at St Thodosios’ Tomb in the Monastery of Agiou Theodosiou tou Neou near Agia Triada near Argos
Saint of the Day – 3 January – Saint Daniel of Padua (Died 168) Deacon Martyr, Missionary, Evangeliser. Born in Italy, tradition says that he was originally a Jew but was converted by Saint Prosdocimus (Died c100), the first Bishop of Padua, who he assisted in evangelising north-eastern Italy. He was Ordained a Deacon and helped the Bishop preach the Gospel. Patronages – of lost articles, the blind and of eye diseases, prisoners, women whose husbands are away from home at war and he is considered the Patron Saint of Treviso and is also one of four Patron Saints of Padua, along with Saints Anthony of Padua, Prosdocimus and Justina of Padua. Also known as – Daniele, Danilo. Additional Memorial – 17 February on some calenders.
Bronze sculpture detail of Daniel of Padua on the doors of the Basilica of St Anthony
According to tradition, Daniel was Martyred in the year 168 under Emperor Marcus Aurelius (161-180), nailed to a table. However, it is more likely that he died in the early 4th Century in the persecutions under the Emperor Diocletian (284-305). The Roman Martyrology gives no further information.
Bronze sculpture of Daniel of Padua on the doors of the Basilica of St Anthony
The traditions about Daniel were forgotten but his remains were discovered many Centuries later. According to the legend, the core of which seems certain, the Martyr appeared to a blind man in Tuscia and invited him to receive the grace of sight in the oratory of St Prosdocimus in Padua, where Daniel’s tomb lay, completely ignored. The miraculous cure was followed by a diligent search, which led to the discovery of a marble sarcophagus. The Martyr lay there, as on the day he was killed. The body, lying on a wooden slab and covered with a slab of marble, had been pierced by many long nails. An inscription said: “Hic corpus Danielis martyris et levitae quiescit – This is the body of Daniel, Martyr and Deacon.”
Bronze sculpture of Daniel of Padua on the doors of the Basilica of St Anthony
Bishop Uldericus was present at the first identification and, on 3 January 1076 he had the sarcophagus solemnly processed into the new Cathedral of Santa Maria within the City walls. To appease the opposition of the Monks of Santa Justina and the local population of the place, he built a Chapel dedicated to St Daniel on the site where the Parish Church of the same name now stands – the Statue depicted below is situate on the facade. The Martyr’s remains lay under the High Altar in the Cathedral until in 1592 when they were moved to the crypt in the new Cathedral.
In 1953, the sarcophagus was placed in another Chapel and then Daniel’s original sarcophagus was freed from the marble and bronze which had hidden it. It was the same one in which the Martyr had been found, an old Roman sarcophagus of Carrara marble which had had the old pagan decoration removed, probably at the time it was discovered.
Church of the Monastery of St Daniel in Monte near Abano Terme
Daniel is celebrated in the Diocese of Padua, as a Patron Saint, on 3 January the date of the first translation. This day is also in the general Roman Martyrology, while the day in the edition for the Regular Canons was 17 February.
Daniel is depicted in art as a Deacon wearing a Dalmatic, holding a towel and wash basin. He is also often depicted with a Church or City model and a banner. He is invoked by wives with men away at war. He is also invoked in cases of imprisonment, the blind and eye disorders and lost articles.
Jacopo da Montagnana – Saints Daniel of Padua and Louis of Toulouse
Saint of the Day – 2 January – Blessed Stephana de Quinzanis OP (1457-1530) Virgin, Dominican Tertiary, Mystic, Stigmatist, Stephana was particularly devoted to the Passion of our Lord and bore the Stigmata of His Passion. At the same time, she experienced spiritual aridity, as well as doubts and temptations. Stephana was well known for her service to the poor. Born in 1457 in Orzinuovi near Brescia in Italy and died on 2 January 1530 in Soncino near Crema in Italy. Also known as – Stefana Quinzani, Stephanie de Quinzanis. Patronage – of Theologians, Beatified on 14 December 1740 by Pope Benedict XIV (cultus confirmed). Her Body is interred at the Church of the Convent of the Dominican Tertiary Sisters Soncino, Cremona, Italy which Stephana had founded and some of her Relics are enshrined in her hometown Parish of .Orzinuovi.
She was born in 1457 in Brescia, Italy, to Lorenzo de Quinzanis and his wife, who were a poor and pious couple. Her father became a member of the Third Order of St Dominic while Stephana was very young. While accompanying him on visits to the Dominican Monastery in nearby Soncino, she met the stigmatist Friar, Blessed Matthew Carrieri, who instructed her in the Catechism.
Bl Matthew told her that she would be his spiritual heiress, a statement she did not understand for many years. She began receiving visions of Dominican Saints from age seven, at which point she made vows of poverty, chastity and obedience. In 1464, Christ appeared to her, accompanied bythe Blessed Virgin Mary and Saints Dominic, Thomas Aquinas and Catherine of Siena, presenting her with a wedding ring, signifying her mystical marriage. Bl Matthew Carrieri died when Stephana was 14 years old and soon after he appeared to her in a vision and she herself received the Stigmata.
Stephana started to work as a servant but she continued in her formation in the Third Order and at age 15, made her profession at the Dominican Priory in Soncino. Her devotion to the poor and sick led her to found a community of Third Order Sisters there. She served as its first Prioress.
Her counsel was sought by many, including St Angela Merici, Foundress of the Ursulines, also Bl Augustine Fangi, as well as her fellow Dominican tertiary and mystic, Bl Osanna of Mantua. In 1497, Stephana participated in various stages of the Passion of Jesus Christ which was attested to by 21 witnesses in a still extant account, written in the vernacular and entitled “Relazione dell’Estasi della Passione – Report of the Ecstasy of the Passion.” Sources state that although Stephana was “plain” she had magnificent hair. Grudging herself this one beauty, she pulled it out by the roots.
Bl Stephana in ecstasy, bust on the Altar dedicated to her, in the Parish Church in Orzinuovi. The Sculphture was created in 1930 by Enrico Biondi
Stephana had a particularly intense devotion to Saint Thomas Aquinas. In fact, to overcome the temptation of thoughts against purity, she once threw herself upon a cartload of thorns in imitation of the Doctor Angelicus. Exhausted from this penance, she prayed to Saint Thomas and, was girded by Angels, as St Thomas had been mystically girded with a cord, which they tied so tightly around her waist that she cried out in pain.
Although she had no formal theological training, she could discuss mystical theology at the most profound level. She is considered a patron saint for theologians. Stephana could read the hearts and minds of the people around her and had the gift of prophesy and of curing illnesses. She lived in a nearly continuous fast. She accurately predicted the date of her own death which occurred from natural causes on 2 January 1530.
Stephana’s tomb became a pilgrimage site almost immediately. Her intercession was often felt in the Convent she had founded, where the Sisters obtained both material and spiritual help through her intercession.
Her cult was popularised by the Dominicans Bartholomeo of Mantua and Battista of Salò but their Latin Vitae (Lives of the Blessed), have been lost and only a later Italian version which combined the two texts has survived.
Saint of the Day – 31 December – Saint Zoticus of Constantinople (Died c350) Priest, known as “The Feeder of Orphans,” possibly a Martyr. Patronages – of the poor and of orphans. Nickname: “Orphanotrophos” the one who feeds orphans. Name means: Z: the man full of life (Greek) and O: the orphan carer (Greek).
Originally from Rome, he journeyed to Constantinople (modern Istanbul, Turkey) when it became the capital city of the Empire under Constantine the Great (r. 324-337). There he founded a hospital for the poor and defended orthodox Christianity before the pro-Arian Emperor Constantius II (r. 641-668).
Some traditions declare him a Martyr due to the above defiance of the Arian Enmperor but the Roman Martyrology does not define him as a Martyr. It says: “The same day, St Zoticus, Roman Priest, who went to Constantinople and took upon himself the care of orphans.”
Zoticus is revered as the founder of Byzantium ‘s first Orphanage
Saint of the Day – 14 December – Saint Agnellus of Naples OSA (535-596) Hermit, Priest, Abbot, Defender and Protector of the City of Naples, Miracle-worker. Agnellus was initially a Basilian Monk and later became a Friar of the Hermits of St Augustine. Born in 535 in Naples, Italy and died of natural causes on 14 December 596 in his birth-town at the age of 61. Patronages – against invaders or invasion, of the City of Guarcino, one of the 50+ Co-Patrons of Naples (See Note below). Also known as – Agnello, Aniello the Abbot. Additional Memorial – 18 May in his Patronage Town of Guarcino.
The Roman Martyrology reads today: “In Naples, in Campaniaa, St Agnellus, Abbot. Illustrious by the gift of miracles, he was often seen with the standard of the Cross, delivering the City besieged by enemies.”
At the beginning of the 10th Century, Peter, a Sub-Deacon of the Neapolitan Church who had been freed from a serious illness through the intercession of Agnellus, composed a “Libellus Miraculorum,” in which, in addition to his own miraculous cure, he recounts twenty-two further miracles performed through the intercession of our Saint.
Agnellus was born in 535 in Naples into a rich family of Syracusan origin, possibly related to Saint Lucy. His father was Federico and his mother Giovanna. He spent his youth as a Hermit in a cave near a Chapel dedicated to the Virgin Mary and then, in the Church of Santa Maria Intercede which later became Sant’Agnello Maggiore.
Statue of the saint in the Town named after him.
He received a rich and extensive inheritance on his parents’ death and used it on works of mercy, such as founding a hospital for the poor.
Agnellus became increasingly popular among the inhabitants of Naples, so much so that they called upon him to save the City during the Lombard invasion of 581. Accepting the challenge, he appeared carrying a Banner of the Cross to defend the City.
He finally left the City to escape his popularity, moving to Monte Sant’Angelo, then the village of Guarcino, where he remained for seven years and where there is a Shrine dedicated to him.
Agnellus later returned to Naples to become an Augustinian Monk and then a Priest at the Monastery of Gaudiosus of Naples, where he finally became Abbot and where he died aged 61.
The 17th Century Reliquary bust containing the jaw and throat attributed to Agnellus, is kept in the Cathedral of Naples, inside the Chapel of San Gennaro. He is Co-Patron of the City of Naples where, according to tradition, he was buried in the Church of Sant’Agnello Maggiore in Caponapoli.
Since the 15th Century, Agnellus was counted among the Patrons of Naples and is also the Patron of Guarcino, a City in Lazio in the Province of Frosinone. He also enjoys particular veneration in Lucca, where, since the 12th Century, an Altar was dedicated to him. This City disputed with Naples regarding the authenticity of its Relics and celebrates the Feast on 18 May.
There are many Churches dedicated to St Agnellus in the region.
*NOTE: The City of Naples has more than 50 official Patron Saints, although its principal Patron is Saint Januarius (Died c305). St Januarius is a Martyr of the Great Persecution which ended with Diocletian’s retirement in 305. The second in terms of importance, is St Aspren (Died in the 2nd Century) – the first Bishop of Naples. St Aspren’s Episcopate is stated as lasting twenty-three years.
St Agnellus in Glory – Gloria di Sant’Agnello, Santuario di Sant’Agnello Abate – Roccarainola
St Lucy (of Syracuse) – St Lucy/Lucia of Syracuse (c283-304) Virgin and Martyr Patron of the blind, eye disorders, martyrs, Perugia, Italy, Malta; epidemics; salesmen, Syracuse, Italy, throat infections, writers, against fire, against poverty, against spiritual blindness, peasants, penitent prostitutes, poor people, sick children, authors, cutlers, farmers, glass blowers, glass makers, glaziers, labourers, lawyer, maid servants, notaries, ophthalmologists, opticians, porters, printers, saddler, sailors, salesmen, seamstresses, stained glass workers, tailors, upholsterers, weavers and 10 further towns and cities. St Lucy’s Life and Death: https://anastpaul.wordpress.com/2017/12/13/saint-of-the-day-13-december-st-lucy-c-283-304/
Prayer to St Lucy
O St Lucy, you preferred to let your eyes be torn out instead of denying the faith and defiling your soul and God, through an extraordinary miracle, replaced them with another pair of sound and perfect eyes to reward your virtue and faith, appointing you as the protector against eye diseases. I come to you for you to protect my eyesight and to heal the illness in my eyes.
O St Lucy, preserve the light of my eyes so that I may see the beauties of creation, the glow of the sun, the colour of the flowers and the smile of children.
Preserve also the eyes of my soul, the faith, through which I can know my God, understand His teachings, recognise His love for me and never miss the road that leads me to where you, St Lucy, can be found in the company of the angels and saints. St Lucy, protect my eyes and preserve my faith.
St Lucy, “Bringer of Light” Pray for those with eye ailments, Pray for us all!
Merciful God, I come to You to ask Your aid that my life may always give You praise. I ask through the intercession of St Odilia and all your holy people to be a beacon of Your Light to all I meet. Give me holiness of soul and body and bring me into Your divine Light. May I obtain these favours, as well as my special prayer, St Odilia, pray for my eyes and the eyes of my faith. Through the merits of Our Saviour, Jesus Christ, Your Son, our Lord, Who lives with you and the Holy Spirit, God forever and ever. Amen.
St Antiochus of Sulci
Blessed Antonio Grassi Cong. Orat. (1592 – 1671) Priest of the Oratorians of St Philip Neri, Confessor, Tertiary of the Order of St Francis, Spiritual advisor, Counsellor, Mediator, Miracle Worker, Apostle of the poor and the sick. He was Beatified on 30 September 1900 by Pope Leo XIII. Blessed Antonio’s biography: https://anastpaul.com/2018/12/13/saint-of-the-day-13-december-blessed-antonio-grassi-cong-orat-1592-1671/
St Aristone St Arsenius of Latro St Aubert of Arras Bl Bartholomew of Tuscany St Edburgh of Lyminge St Einhildis of Hohenburg Bl Elizabeth Rose St Jodocus
Blessed Giovanni Marinoni CR (1490-1562) Priest of the Theatines of St Cajetan (1480-1547) (The Congregation of the Clerics Regular of the Divine Providence), renowned Preacher and spiritual director. Patron of Preachers. He was Beatified on 5 December 1764, by a Bull of Pope Clement XIII, who also granted an Office in his honour, to his Order, to be celebrated on 13 December. Biography: https://anastpaul.com/2019/12/13/saint-of-the-day-blessed-giovanni-marinoni-cr-1490-1562/
St Martino de Pomar St Roswinda St Tassio of Bavaria St Ursicinus of Cahors (Died c595) Bishop St Wifred
Blessed Mercedarian Knights – 7 Beati: A group of Mercedarian Knights who fought the enemies of the Catholic faith in the first Century of the Order. Blessed Bernardo de Podio Blessed Giacomo de Copons Blessed Giovanni de Bruquera Blessed Guglielmo de Sa Blessed Pietro Boguer Blessed Pietro Ricart Blessed Raimondo de Frexa
Martyrs of Sebaste – 5 Saints: A group of Christians Martyred together in the persecutions of Diocletian. We know little more than their names – Auxentius, Eustratius, Eugene, Mardarius and Orestes. They were martyred in c 302 at Sebaste, Armenia (in modern Turkey) and their relics are enshrined at the church of Saint Apollinaris in Rome, Italy.
Saint of the Day – 5 November – Saint Gerald of Béziers OSA (1070–1123) Bishop of Béziers from 1121 until the day of his death, Canon Regular of St Augustine and the 2nd Prior of the community at Cassan Abbey, Apostle of the poor and sick, Gerald built a Hospital and restored and extended the Abbey, Miracle-worker. Born around 1070 in Puissalicon and died on 5 November 1123 in Béziers in France of natural causes. Patronages – Puissalicon and the town of Saint-Guiraud and of children suffering from eye diseases. Also known as – Gerald of Puissalicon, Guiraud, Geraud, Geraldo.
Gerald was born in Puissalicon in 1070. Several acts and charters bear the signature “Guiraud of Puissalicon.” This proves that he was from the noble family of thePuissalicons. Tradition reports that his mother carried him for only 7 months and then, when he was Baptised, the Baptismal’s water began to boil as if some red-hot iron had been planted within it. This miracle was considered as forerunner of the holiness of the child.
Before 1085, being only around 15 years old, he joined the Canons Regular of St Augustine, where , in around 1094, he was Ordained a Deacon. Seven years later, in 1101, aged 31, Gerald was Ordained to the Priesthood.
Between 4 May 1105 and 6 August 1106, he was elected Prior of the Monastery in Cassan near Roujan , which, as Prior, he restored to its former glory. He built many new buildings, including a Hospital. On 5 October 1115, a new Church outside the Cassan Monastery was Consecrated.
Gerald was known for his piety, sincerity and simplicity, He devoted much of his time to the poor and sick and in 1121 he accepted the Bishopric of the Diocese of Béziers. He held this office for only around 2 years before Gerald died at the age of approximately 53 as a result of illness.
He was buried, as requested, next to Saint. Aphrodisius, first bishop of Béziers. His Relics were transferred on 11 November 1259 to the no longer existing Monastery of the Poor Clares . This building was a place of worship until the French Revolution, during which the Relics of our Saint were destroyed. His miraculous Silver Amethyst Ring was stored in Reujan and was stolen in 1980 by unknown perpetrators. The ring had great supernatural powers, especially for children with eye diseases.
The French Town of Saint-Guiraud is named after him .
Quote/s of the Day – 4 November – “The Month of the Holy Souls in Purgatory” – Saint Charles Borromeo (1538-1584) He is known as the “Father of the Clergy” – Some of his Patronages – Bishops, Priests, Seminarians • Catechists • Catechumens • Spiritual Director s • Spiritual leaders.
“Prayer is the beginning, the progress and the complement of all virtues.”
“Souls are won with the knees.”
“The Rosary is the most divine of devotions.”
“Just as Christ came into this world only once, clothed in our flesh, He is also ready to come again, at any moment, to dwell spiritually in our hearts with the profusion of His graces, as long as we do not resist Him!”
“We are all weak, I confess but the Lord God has given us means with which, if we wish, we can be strengthened with ease.”
O Holy Mother of God A Prayer for our Priests to the Most Blessed Virgin By St Charles Borromeo (1538-1584)
O Holy Mother of God, pray for the Priests thy Son has chosen to serve His Church. Help them by thy intercession, to be holy, zealous and chaste. Make them models of virtue, in the service of God’s people. Help them to be prayerful in meditations, effective in preaching and enthusiastic in the daily offering of the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass. Help them to administer the Sacraments with joy, O Holy Mother of God. Amen.
AnaStpaul 
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