Category: SAINT of the DAY

Posted in SAINT of the DAY

Saint of the Day – 31 March – St Balbina (Died c130) Virgin and Martyr

Posted on by AnaStpaul

Saint of the Day – 31 March – St Balbina (Died c130) Virgin and Martyr of Rome. Patronage – against Throat Diseases, goitor diseases. Also known as – Balbina the Virgin, Balbine .

The Roman Martyrology reads today: “At RFome, the holy virgin Balbina, daughter of the blessed Martyr Quirinus, who was Baptised by Pope St Alexander and after overcoming the world, was buried on the Appian Road at ther father’s side.”

Tradition tells us that Balbina was a Virgin Martyr found guilty of being a Christian and sentenced to death by Hadrian.

The legendary life of Balbina has come down to us through two Passios: the first is a passio St Alexandri, perhaps from the 6th Century which confuses Pope Alexander with the same-named Martyr from Nomentana. The second is a Vita of Sts Balbina and Hermetis, an appendix to the Passio Alexandri.

According to these two Vitae, Balbina was the daughter of the Martyr Quirinus, who, having converted to the Christian faith, was Baptised. with his daughter by Pope Alexander. When Balbina became seriously ill, her father took her to the Pope, who was then imprisoned and he cured her – this illness must relate to her Patronages.

St Balbina and her father St Quirinus

Because of her wealth and nobility, many young men wished to marry her but she wished to consecrate herself to God. Arrested together with her father by order of the Emperor Hadrian (117-135), after many torments, she was beheaded.

St Balbina on the St Peter’s Collonade

A Titulus Church was founded on the Aventine Hill in Rome which preserved her name for veneration. Her date is “ante 595” since that is the earliest documented reference to her Church.

St Balbina’s Church in Rome
Posted in MARIAN TITLES, SAINT of the DAY

Our Lady of the Holy Cross, Basilica di Santa Croce, Rome and the Saints for 31 March

Posted on by AnaStpaul

Monday in the Fourth Week of Lent – Ferial Day: FAST

Our Lady of the Holy Cross, Basilica di Santa Croce in Gerusalemme, Rome – 31 March:
HERE:
https://anastpaul.com/2021/03/31/our-lady-of-the-holy-cross-basilica-di-santa-croce-in-gerusalemme-rome-and-memorials-of-the-saints-31-march/

St Abda
St Acacius Agathangelos of Melitene

St Agigulf (Died 751) Martyr, Monk, Abbot of Stavelot, Archbishop of Cologne, Died by being murdered in 751 in Cologne, Austrasia (in modern Germany).
His Life and Death:
https://anastpaul.com/2023/03/31/saint-of-the-day-31-march-st-agigulf-died-751-martyr-bishop/

St Aldo of Hasnon
St Balbina (Died c130) Virgin and Martyr of Rome

St Benjamin the Deacon (Died c424) Deaco and Martyr. Benjamin was executed during a period of persecution of Christians that lasted forty years and through the reign of two Persian kings: Isdegerd I, who died in 421 and his son and successor, Varanes V. King Varanes carried on the persecution with such great fury, that Christians were submitted to the most cruel tortures.
His Life and Death:
https://anastpaul.com/2021/03/31/saint-of-the-day-31-march-st-benjamin-the-deacon-died-c-424-martyr/

Blessed Bonaventure Tornielli OSM (1411-1491) Priest of the Servite Order, called the “Apostolic Preacher”, Confessor, Biblical expert, Missionary Preacher. His cult was confirmed by Pope Pius X in 1911.
His Devoted Life:
https://anastpaul.com/2020/03/31/saint-of-the-day-31-march-blessed-bonaventure-tornielli-osm-1411-1491/

Blessed Daniel of Venice ECMC (1344-1411) Martyr, Layman, Husband, Father, Entrepreneur, Politician, Diplomat, Peace-maker, Apostle of the poor, part-time Monk and Hermit.
His Holy Life and Death:
https://anastpaul.com/2024/03/31/saint-of-the-day-31-march-blessed-daniel-of-venice-ecmc-1344-1411-martyr/

St Guy (Died 1046) Monk, Abbot, Hermit, Spiritual Adviser, Ascetic in Pomposa, Italy.
His Life of Penance:
https://anastpaul.com/2019/03/31/saint-of-the-day-31-march-st-guy-of-pomposa-died-1046/

Bl Guy of Vicogne

Blessed Jane O.Carm. (Died 1286?) possibly the first Carmelite Tertiary or a fully professed Nun of Toulousand it is believed, that she received the Veil from the hands of St Simon Stock
Blessed Jane:
https://anastpaul.com/2022/03/31/saint-of-the-day-31-march-blessed-jane-of-toulouse-o-carm-died-1286/

St Machabeo of Armagh
Bl Mary Mamala
St Mella of Doire-Melle
St Renovatus of Merida

Martyrs of Africa – 4 Saints: A group of Christians Martyred together for their faith. No details have survived except for of their names – Anesius, Cornelia, Felix and Theodulus. They were martyred in Roman pro-consular Africa.

Posted in SAINT of the DAY

Saint of the Day – 30 March – St Zosimus (c570-662) Bishop and Confessor of Syracuse, Sicily

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Saint of the Day – 30 March – St Zosimus (c570-662) Bishop and Confessor of Syracuse, Sicily, Abbot. Born in the region and died in Syracuse of natural causes in 662. A man of great wisdom and virtue. Also known as – Zosimo, Zozimus.

The Roman Martyrology reads today: “At Syracuse, St Zosimus, Bishop and Confessor.”

Zosimo, was a young Monk who had been entrusted with the custody of the Tomb of Saint Lucy in Syracuse Monastery, due to his perceived ineptitude. One day, eager to see his parents again, he left the Monastery without notifying his Superiors. His parents, seeing him arrive with the air of a fugitive, scolded him and took him back to the Monastery. He was forgiven by the Abbot and returned to his role as “Guardian of the Tomb.”

This role he held for a long time because he was considered incapable of more demanding tasks. When the Abbot died, the Monks went to the Bishop to find out the name of their new Abbot. Zosimo was not among them, having remained behind as ‘useless.’ When the Bishop interviewed the Monks before him, he asked: “Are you all here?” “No” they replied, “’the Guardian of the Tomb of Saint Lucy’ is at home but he is of little importance.” “Bring him along” ordered the Bishop. And when Zosimo arrived: “Here is your Abbot” the Bishop solemnly affirmed.

Thus Zosimo, to everyone’s surprise, became the Abbot of the Monastery. In this role, he quickly emonstrated the richness of his wisdom and virtue, to the point that the people wanted him as their Bishop when that Office became vacant. Confirmed by Pope Theodore, he remained on the Episcopal Seat of Syracuse from 647 until his death in 662, leading the Diocese with kindness and wisdom.

Posted in MARIAN TITLES, SAINT of the DAY

Lent IV – LAETARE / Rejoice SUNDAY, Our Lady, Boulogne-sur-mer and the Saints for 30 March

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Lent IV – LAETARE / Rejoice SUNDAY

Re-establishment of Chapel of Our Lady, Boulogne-sur-mer, by Bishop Dormy – Basilica of Notre-Dame de Boulogne-sur-mer: – 30 March:
HERE:
https://anastpaul.com/2021/03/30/our-lady-boulogne-sur-mer-and-memorials-of-the-saints-30-march/

Blessed Amadeus of Savoy (1435-1472) IXth Duke of Savoy, nicknamed “the Happy” was the Duke of Savoy, from 1465 to 1472, Apostle of the poor and ill, a pious, humble and gentle ruler. Amadeus was a particular protector of Franciscan Friars and endowed other religious houses, as well as homes for the care of the poor and suffering.
Biography:
https://anastpaul.com/2021/03/30/saint-of-the-day-30-march-blessed-amadeus-of-savoy-1435-1472/

St Clinius of Pontecorvo (Died c1030) Abbot
St Cronan Mochua
St Damiano
St Domnino of Thessalonica

Blessed Dodone of Haske O.Praem.(1231) Monk, Hermit, Stigmatist.
Blessed Dodone’s Devoted Life:
https://anastpaul.com/2024/03/30/saint-of-the-day-30-march-blessed-dodone-of-haske-o-praem-1231-hermit-stigmatist/


St Fergus of Downpatrick
St Irene of Rome

Blessed Joachim (c1130-1202) Abbot, Founder, Theologian, Mystic, Writer. Joachim was the Founder of the monastic Order of San Giovanni in Fiore. Later followers, inspired by his works in Eschatology and Historicism theories, are called Joachimites.
About Blessed Joachim:
https://anastpaul.com/2023/03/30/saint-of-the-day-30-march-blessed-joachim-of-fiore-c1130-1202-priest-abbot/

St John Climacus (c 525-606) Abbot, Anchorite Monk, Mystic, Poet, Writer, Ascetic, Father
St John of the Wonderful Words:
https://anastpaul.com/2019/03/30/saint-of-the-day-st-john-climacus-c-525-606/

St Leonard Murialdo
St Mamertinus of Auxerre
St Osburga of Coventry
St Pastor of Orléans
St Patto of Werden
St Quirinus the Jailer

St Peter Regalatus OFM (1320-1456) Priest, Friar of the Friars Minor, Superior, gifted with bi-location, prophecy and Miracle working. He was Canonised on 29 June 1746 by Pope Benedict XIV.
The Roman Martyrology reads: “In Aguilera in Castile in Spain, Saint Peter Regalado of Valladolid, Priest of the Order of Minors, who was distinguished for humility and rigour of penance and built two cells, in which only twelve Friars could live in solitude.”
About this zealous Saint:
https://anastpaul.com/2022/03/30/saint-of-the-day-30-march-saint-peter-regalatus-ofm-1320-1456/

St Regulus of Scotland
St Regulus of Senlis
St Secundus of Asti
St Tola
St Zosimus (c570-662) Bishop and Cpmnfessor of Syracuse

Martyrs of Constantinople: 4th Century Christians who were exiled, branded on the forehead, imprisoned, tortured, impoverished and murdered during the multi-year persecutions of the Arian Emperor Constantius. They were Martyred between 351 and 359 in Constantinople.

Posted in SAINT of the DAY

Saint/s of the Day – 29 March – Saint Constantine (Died c560) AND Sainst Simplicius (Died c576) Both Abbots of Monte Cassino

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Saint/s of the Day – 29 March – Saint Constantine (Died c560) Abbot of Monte Cassino AND Saint Simplicius (Died c576) Abbot of Monte Cassino. These 2 Monks were disciples of St Benedict and the 2nd and 3rd successors as Abbots of his Monastery at Monte Cassino.

Founder Father St Benedict and his Monks

After the holy Founder of Monte Cassino, the father of Western Monastism, St Benedict died, his first four successors Abbots of the famous Monastery, are all Saints and are in order: Constantine (c547-c560), Simplicius (c560-c576), Vitalis (c576-c580) and Bonitus (c580-584).

We can say little about our Saints, almost no documentation have come down to us which tell of their lives.

Simplicius is, however, mentioned together with Constantine in the following centuries, both for the cult paid to both on 29 March by the Benedictines of Monte Cassino,and because, their Relics are deposited together.
In fact, these Relics were found in the area of ​​the presbytery of the Cassinese Basilica around 1625-1628 and translated to the old Chapel of St Bertario and then, in 1710, always together with those of Constantine, they were transferred to the Chapel of St Gregory the Great.

During the disastrous bombing of 1944, they emerged unscathed and were placed again in the rebuilt Chapel under the Altar, which, like the whole Church, was later Consecrated in the solemn dedication made after the restoration.

The Monte Cassino Basilica

Simplicius is remembered in the 9th Century ‘Vita Mauri’ as one of the Monks who St Benedict gave as companions to St Maurus on his journey to France. Furthermore, the historian Peter the Deacon, states that Simplicius gave the Rule of St Benedict, to all the Monks he met on this trip with St Maurus, writing some verses about it which have come down to us.

He was depicted in a painting by De Mura placed in the Chapel mentioned above, in the act of presenting the Rule to the Monks.

St Simplicius and St Constantine, Abbots, were venerated immediately after their death for having been disciples and first successors of the holy Founder and their first burial was right next to his. Today we see St Benedict and his twin sister, St Scholastica, are venerated side by side at Monte Cassino Basilica. The image below are their tombs.

Posted in MARIAN TITLES, SAINT of the DAY

Apparition of Our Lady to St Bonitus (7th Century) and the Saints for 29 March

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Saturday in the Third Week in Lent – Ferial Day: FAST

Apparition of Our Lady to St Bonitus (7th Century) – 29 March:
HERE:
https://anastpaul.com/2021/03/29/apparition-of-our-lady-to-st-bonitus-7th-century-and-memorials-of-the-saints-29-march/

St Acacia of Antioch
St Archmimus of Africa
St Armogastes of Africa
St Barachasius

Blessed Bertold (Died 1195) Priest, Monk of Mount Carmel, Hermit, Crusader.
His Life:
https://anastpaul.com/2020/03/29/saint-of-the-day-29-march-blessed-bertold-of-mount-carmel-died-1195/

St Constantine (Died c560) Abbot of Monte Cassino AND
St Simplicius (Died c576) Abbot of Monte Cassino

St Eustachio (3rd Century) Bishop of Naples
The little we know about St Eustachio:
https://anastpaul.com/2022/03/29/saint-of-the-day-29-march-saint-eustachio-of-naples-3rd-century/

St Eustasius (c560–c626),Abbot, Disciple of St Columban, Abbot of Luxeuil Monastery, (after its Founder, St Columban) Missionary and Founder of another Monastery in Bavaria, Miracle-worker. Patronages – against blindness and eye diseases, of all illness and sick people.
Biography:
https://anastpaul.com/2023/03/29/saint-of-the-day-29-march-st-eustasius-of-luxeuil-c560-c626/

St Firminus of Viviers

St Gladys (Sixth Century) Welsh Queen and Hermit, Mother and Widow.
Her Life:
https://anastpaul.com/2021/03/29/saint-of-the-day-29-march-saint-gladys-sixth-century/

St Gwynllyw
Bl Hugh of Vaucelles
St Jonas of Hubaham
St Lasar

St Ludolf O.Praem. (Died 1250) Bishop of Ratzeburg and Martyr, Preacher and founder of a community of Norbertine Sisters, Reformer and Counseller. St Ludolf was a Priest of the Premonstratensian (Norbertines) Order, particularly invoked as a Martyr for the freedom of the Church.
His Life and Death:
https://anastpaul.com/2019/03/29/saint-of-the-day-29-march-st-ludolf-of-ratzeburg-o-praem-died-1250-martyr/

St Mark of Arethusa
St Masculas of Africa
St Pastor of Nicomedia
St Saturus of Africa
St Victorinus of Nicomedia

St William Tempier OSA (Died 1197) the 12th Bishop of Poitiers, “William the Strong” Canon Regular of the Augustinian Order. He is remembered as a man of great courage and virile patience in the exercise of his Office in defending the rights of and the property of the Church.
“William the Strong”
https://anastpaul.com/2024/03/29/saint-of-the-day-29-march-saint-william-tempier-of-poitiers-osa-died-1197-bishop-known-as-william-the-strong/

Martyrs of Nicomedia: Seven Christians who were Martyred together in the persecutions of Diocletian. We know nothing else about them but the names of two – Pastor and Victorinus.

Posted in AUGUSTINIANS OSA, DOMINICAN OP, franciscan OFM, MARIAN TITLES, SAINT of the DAY

FEAST OF THE FIVE HOLY WOUNDS, Friday of the Third Week in Lent – FAST & ABSTINENCE, Nuestra Senora de Castelbruedo / Our Lady of Castelbruedo, Catalonia, Spain, St John of Capistrano OFM (1386-1456) and all the Saints for 28 March

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Friday of the Third Week in Lent – FAST & ABSTINENCE

FEAST OF THE FIVE HOLY WOUNDS
Celebrated on Friday after the Third Sunday in Lent
HERE:
https://anastpaul.com/2023/03/17/the-feast-of-the-five-holy-wounds-17-march/

Nuestra Senora de Castelbruedo / Our Lady of Castelbruedo, Catalonia, Spain – 28 March:
HERE:
https://anastpaul.com/2021/03/28/palm-sunday-2021-our-lady-of-castelbruedo-catalonia-spain-and-memorials-of-the-saints-28-march/

St John of Capistrano OFM (1386-1456) Priest and Friar of the Friars Minor, Confessor and Preacher. Famous as a Preacher, Theologian and Inquisitor, trained Lawyer, he earned himself the nickname ‘the Soldier Saint’ when in 1456 at age 70 he led a Crusade against the invading Ottoman Empire at the Siege of Belgrade. He was Beatified on 19 December 1650 by Pope Innocent X and Canonised on 16 October 1690 by Pope Alexander VIII.
Feast Day moved from 28 March in 1969.
A Wonderful Saint:
https://anastpaul.com/2017/10/23/saint-of-the-day-23-october-st-john-capistrano-ofm-1386-1456-the-soldier-saint/

St Alkelda of Middleham

Blessed Antonio Patrizi OSA (c 280-1311) Priest, Friar of the Order of St Augustine, Prior, Hermit. He was Beatified in 1804 by Pope Pius VII (cultus confirmation).
His Life:
https://anastpaul.com/2021/03/28/saint-of-the-day-28-march-blessed-antonio-patrizi-osa-c-1280-1311-priest/

St Castor of Tarsus

Blessed Conon (1139-1236) Monk, Hermit and Abbot of the order of St Basil of Caesarea, Miracle-worker.
His Life of Love:
https://anastpaul.com/2020/03/28/saint-of-the-day-28-march-blessed-conon-of-naso-1139-1236/

St Cyril the Deacon
St Dorotheus of Tarsus
St Gundelindis of Niedermünster

St Guntramnus (c532-592) King of the Kingdom of Orléans and Burgundy from 561 until his death in 592, Confessor, Apostle of the needs of the Church and of the poor and sick, Penitent.
The Roman Martyrology reads: “At Chalons in France, the demise of St Gontran King, who devoted himself to exercises of piety, renounced the pomps of the world and bestowed his treasures on the Church and the poor,”
A Pious and Generous Ruler:
https://anastpaul.com/2022/03/28/saint-of-the-day-28-march-saint-guntramnus-died-597/

St Hesychius of Jerusalem (Died c450) Priest, Exegete, Scholar, Monk, Hermit, Writer. He is not to be confused with Bishop St Hesychius of Jerusalem, a contemporary of St Gregory the Great.
His Life of Zealous Labour:
https://anastpaul.com/2024/03/28/saint-of-the-day-28-march-saint-hesychius-of-jerusalem-died-c450-priest/

St Hilarion of Pelecete

Blessed Jeanne Marie de MailleTOSF (1331-1414) Widow, Recluse, Third Order of St Francis. Beatified on 27 April 1871 by Pope Pius IX .
About Blessed Jeanne Marie
https://anastpaul.com/2023/03/28/saint-of-the-day-28-march-blessed-jeanne-marie-de-maille-tosf-1331-1414-virgin-widow/

St Proterius of Alexandria
St Rogatus the Martyr
St Successus the Martyr
St Tutilo OSB (c850-c915) Monk of Saint-Gall

Blessed Venturino OP (1304-1346) Priest, Friar of the Order of Preachers of St Dominic, Preacher, Missionary Preacher of the Crusades, Writer.
His Holy Life:
https://anastpaul.com/2019/03/28/saint-of-the-day-28-march-blessed-venturino-of-bergamo-op-1304-1346/

Posted in BREVIARY Prayers, DOCTORS of the Church, FATHERS of the Church, Our MORNING Offering, PRAYERS of the SAINTS, QUOTES on the CROSS of CHRIST, SAINT of the DAY, The HOLY CROSS, The SIGN of the CROSS

Our Morning Offering – 27 March – Hail, Most Precious and Life-Giving Cross of the Lord!

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Our Morning Offering – 27 March – The Feastday of St John Damascene (675-749) Confessor, Father and Doctor of the Church

Hail, Most Precious
and Life-Giving Cross of the Lord!
By St John Damascene (675-749)
Confessor, Father
and Doctor of the Church

Let God arise and let His enemies be scattered
and let those, who hate Him,
flee from His Presence.
As smoke vanishes, let them vanish
and as wax melts by the presence of fire,
so let the demons perish by the presence
of those who love God
and who sign themselves
with the Sign of the Cross
and say in gladness:
Hail, Most Precious
and Life-Giving Cross of the Lord,
for Thou drives away the demons
by the power of our Lord Jesus Christ
Crucified on thee, Who went down to hell
and trampled on the power of the devil
and gave us thee, His venerable Cross,
for driving away all enemies.
O Most Precious and Life-Giving Cross of the Lord,
help me, with our holy Lady,
the Virgin Mother of God
and with all the Saints, throughout the ages.
Amen.

Posted in SAINT of the DAY

Saint of the Day – 27 March – StAimone OSB (Died 853) Bishop of Halberstadt

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Saint of the Day – 27 March – St Aimone OSB (Died 853) Bishop of Halberstadt, in Germany, a learned Scholarly Monk, Theologian, Spiritual Writer, Teacher, Aimone became a passionate disciple of the teachings of St Alcuin, whom he sought to emulate in his writings. Also known as – Aimon, Haimo, Haymo.

The life of Aimone of Fulda, a Benedictine Monk, Theologian and the Bishop of Halberstadt, unfolds as a fascinating tapestry of study, teaching and pastoral commitment.

Having entered the famous German Monastery pf Fulda, at a young age, he formed a deep bond with the Blessed Rabanus Maurus, with whom he shared a passion for knowledge, listening to the lessons of the luminary St Alcuin, whilst the latter was in Tours.

Returning to Fulda, until 839, Aimone poured out his knowledge as a teacher, enlightening the minds of many. In 839, he was called to lead the Diocese of Hersfeld. His fame as a learned and upright man reached the Emperor Louis the German, who in 840 appointed him as the Bishop of Halberstadt.

In this capacity, Aimone actively participated in the Synods of Mainz, helping to resolve theological and disciplinary questions of primary importance for the Church of the time.

In agreement with Rabanus’ suggestions, Aimone stood aloof from the Court of King Louis the German, did not entangle himself in the affairs of the State, preached often and lived solely for the welfare of his Diocese.

His fruitful pen gave birth to numerous works, among which the commentary on the Gospel of Matthew is magnified, although not all the writings attributed to him have been confirmed as authentic. He is also the Author of an Epitome of Eusebius’s Ecclesiastical History, of a large number of sermons and of a spiritual work, De Amore Coelestis Patriae.

His earthly existence ended on 27 March 853, leaving a legacy of profound erudition and zealous service to his Master and ours, the Lord Jesus Christ and to the Church.

Halberstadt Cathedral
Posted in DOCTORS of the Church, FATHERS of the Church, SAINT of the DAY

Thursday in the Third Week of Lent – FAST, St John Damascene and the Saints for 27 March

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Thursday in the Third Week of Lent – FAST

St John Damascene (675-749) Confessor, Father and Doctor of the Church, Priest, Monk, Theologian, Writer, Defender of Iconography, Poet, a Polymath whose fields of interest and contribution included law, theology, philosophy, music, Marian devotee. Also known as Doctor of Christian Art.
Feast moved in 1969 to 4 December.
The Great St John Damascene:
https://anastpaul.com/2018/12/04/saint-of-the-day-4-december-st-john-damascene-675-749-father-doctor-of-the-church/
AND:
https://anastpaul.com/2024/03/27/saint-of-the-day-27-march-saint-john-damascene-675-749-confessor-father-doctor-of-the-church/

St Aimone (Died 853) Bishop of Halberstadt
St Amphilochius of Illyria
St Alexander of Drizipara
St Alexander of Pannonia
St Alkeld the Martyr
St Amator the Hermit

St Augusta (Died 5th Century) Virgin Martyr of Treviso
Her Life and Death:
https://anastpaul.com/2022/03/27/saint-of-the-day-27-march-saint-augusta-of-treviso-died-5th-century-virgin-martyr/

St Claudio Gallo
St Cronidas of Illyria
St Ensfrid of Cologne
Bl Frowin of Engelberg
St Gelasius of Armagh

St John (c305-394) Hermit of Lycopolis , Spiritual Advisor, Miracle-worker, graced with the gifts of prophecy and seeing into the hearts of men. John was known and admired by the great Saints of his time, including Saint Jerome, Saint Augustine, Saint Cassian and others.
His Holy Life:
https://anastpaul.com/2023/03/27/saint-of-the-day-27-march-st-john-of-lycopolis-c305-394-hermit/

St Matthew of Beauvais
St Macedo of Illyria

Blessed Pellegrino of Falerone OFM (Died 1233) Lay Brother of the First Order of St Francis of Assisi.
Blessed Pellegrino’s life:
https://anastpaul.com/2021/03/27/saint-of-the-day-27-march-blessed-pellegrino-of-falerone-ofm-died-1233-lay-brother/
St Philetus
St Romulus the Abbot

St Rupert (c660–710) Bishop and Abbot in Salzburg, Apostle to Bavaria and Austria.
The Life of Holy St Rupert:
https://anastpaul.com/2019/03/27/saint-of-the-day-st-rupert-of-salzburg-c-660-710/

St Suairlech of Fore
St Theoprepius

Martyrs of Bardiaboch: A group of Christians who were arrested, tortured and executed together for their faith during the persecutions of Persian King Shapur II. Martyrs. – Abibus, Helias, Lazarus, Mares, Maruthas, Narses, Sabas, Sembeeth and Zanitas. 27 March 326 at Bardiaboch, Persia.

Posted in SAINT of the DAY

Saint of the Day – 26 March – St Felix (Died c400) Bishop of Trier, Germany

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Saint of the Day – 26 March – St Felix (Died c400) Bishop of Trier, Germany, Consecrated by St Martin of Tours. Died in c400. We know that St Felix brought the Relics of St Paulinus of Trier back from Phrygia, where he had died in exile and built a Church to house them.

The Roman Martyrology reads today: “At Treves, the Bishop St Felix.”

In the list of Bishops of the Diocese of Trier, he appears in eleventh place after Saint Brittone or Britto and before Maurice II.

We know little about him. Tradition reports that he was Consecrated as the Bishop in 386, by Saint Martin of Tours, his friend. But since this Consecration was made with the agreement of the usurper Emperor, the Holy See did not recognise the legality of the appointment, even if it considered it valid.

The List of Bishops of Trier Diocese

His Episcopate was also marked by the trial of Priscillian and his followers and their subsequent execution for heresy and witchcraft which can be seen as the first inquisitorial action in the Church.

In 538, Felix, accused of not having campaigned vigorously enough against that verdict, for reasons of peace, after the Synod of Turin, renounced the appointment as Bishop by abdicating.

Some of his contemporaries, including Saint Sulplice Sévère, praised his virtues.

Saint Felix is ​​believed to have died around the year 400.
His Feastday was set for today, 26 March.

Posted in MARIAN TITLES, SAINT of the DAY

Notre-Dame de Soissons / Our Lady of Soissons, France (1128) One of Our Lady’s Slippers was kept in this Abbey, Wednesday of the Third Week – Ferial Day: FAST and the Saints for 26 March

Posted on by AnaStpaul

Wednesday of the Third Week – Ferial Day: FAST

Notre-Dame de Soissons / Our Lady of Soissons, France (1128) One of Our Lady’s Slippers was kept in this Abbey Church – 26 March:
HERE:
https://anastpaul.com/2021/03/26/our-lady-of-soissons-france-1128-and-memorials-of-the-saints-26-march/

St Barontius (Died c725) Monk, Hermit, gifted with visions.
His Life of Grace:
https://anastpaul.com/2023/03/26/saint-of-the-day-26-march-st-barontius-of-pistoia-died-c725-monk-hermit/

St Basil the Younger (Died c952) Confessor, Hermit, Mystic, Miracle-worker.
His Holy Life:
https://anastpaul.com/2022/03/26/saint-of-the-day-26-march-saint-basil-the-younger-died-c-952/

St Bathus
St Bercharius

St Braulio (590-651) Bishop of Saragossa, Spain, Monk, Confessor, Reformer, Scholar, Advisor, Writer, eloquent Preacher, Apostle of Charity. Saint Braulio was friend and disciple to Saint Isidore of Seville (560-636) Doctor of the Church ) and a prolific writer of letters, hymns, martyrologies, hagiographies and history. He fought against heresy and provided both strength and encouragement in the faith to his congregation.
Biography:
https://anastpaul.wordpress.com/2018/03/26/saint-of-the-day-26-march-braulio-590-651/

St Castulus(Died c288) Martyr, Layman, married to Saint Irene of Rome (the woman who assisted St Sebastian after he had been wounded by the Imperial archers), Military Officer and he was the Chamberlain (or officer, valet) of Emperor Diocletian.
His Life and Death:
https://anastpaul.com/2021/03/26/saint-of-the-day-26-march-saint-castulus-of-rome-died-c-288-martyr/

St Desiderius of Pistoia

St Eutychius of Alexandria (Died 356) Sub-Deacon, Martyr of Alexandria. Died during Lent in 356, from his wounds and exhaustion, while on the road to the mines in Egypt.
The Roman Martyrology reads today: “At Alexandria, the holy Martyrs, Eutychius and others, who died by the sword for the Catholic Faith, in the time of Constantius, uinder the Arian bishop, George.”
His Life and Death:
https://anastpaul.com/2024/03/26/saint-of-the-day-26-march-st-eutychius-of-alexandria-died-356-sub-deacon-martyr/

St Felicitas of Padua
St Felix (Died c400) Bishop of Trier, Germany
St Garbhan
St Govan

St Ludger (c742-809) Bishop, Missionary, Founder, Abbot, Writer. Following in the footsteps of the English Missionary St Boniface, St Ludger, who was a native Netherlander, brought the faith to the people of Frisia in Holland and the Saxons of north-west Germany. He founded the Werden Abbey and was the first Bishop of Münster in Westphalia, Germany.
About St Ludger:
https://anastpaul.com/2019/03/26/saint-of-the-day-26-march-st-ludger-c-742-809/

St Maxima the Martyr
St Mochelloc of Kilmallock (Died c639) Abbot at Kilmallock, Ireland. No other information has survived. Also known as – Celloch, Cellog, Motalogus, Mottelog.
St Montanus the Martyr
St Sabino of Anatolia

St Sincheall the Elder (5th-6th Century) On 25 June is the commemoration of a County Offaly Saint, Sincheall of Killeigh. There is a Saint of this name associated with the household of Saint Patrick who is commemorated today. He is distinguished as Sincheall the Elder and may have been related to the St Sincheall of Killeigh. The Irish Calendars preserve this distinction and the two separate Feast Days. We have no further information of today’s St Sincheall the Elder.

St Wereka (Died c370) Martyr – Part of a Congregation burned to death in their Church, somewhere in the Balkans in south-eastern Europe. No other information has survived.

Martyrs of Rome – 5 Saints: A group of Christians Martyred together. The only details to survive are the names – Cassian, Jovinus, Marcian, Peter and Thecla. Rome, Italy, date unknown.

Posted in SAINT of the DAY

Saint of the Day – 25 March – St Hermelandus (Died c720) Priest, Founder-Abbot

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Saint of the Day – 25 March – St Hermelandus (Died c720) Priest, Founder-Abbot of the Monastery of Aindre, Miracle-worker. Born in Noyon, France and died on 25 March in c720 of natural causes in his Monastery at Aindre. Also known as – Erblon, Ermelando, Herbland, Hermeland, Hermiland. Additional Memorials – 18 October in Rouen, Bagneux and Treguier. 20 November (translation of Relics), 25 November in Nantes, today 25 March (the anniversary of his death) universaly and solemnly celebrated at the Monastery of Fontenelle.

The Roman Martyrology reads today: “In Aindre, an Island of the Loire, the Abbot St Hermelandus, whose glorious life is attested by many miracles.”

St Hermelandus Statue in the Church dedicated to him in Sottevast

The Life of Saint Hermelandus, Abbot of Aindre, written almost contemporaneously with his death in 767 and preserved in a manuscript, offers us a fascinating glimpse into the life of a Frankish nobleman of the 7th Century.

Born in Noyon to an illustrious family, Hermelandus began a brilliant career at the Court of Clotaire III, obtaining the position of Cupbearer. However, refusing an arranged marriage and desiring a life consecrated to God, he asked the King for permission to enter a Monastery.

Welcomed to Fontenelle, under the guidance of the Abbot Saint Lambert, Hermelandus distinguished himself for his devotion and his ascetic rigour. It was the Bishop of Nantes, Pascarius, who asked Abbot Lambert to send Monks to found an Abbey in his Diocese.

Hermelandus was chosen to lead the community of twelve brothers, identified an Island in the Loire, called Aindre because of its woods, as an ideal site for the new Monastery. With the support of Pascarius, he obtained the Monastery’s exemption from the authority of the future Bishops of Nantes and the confirmation of its freedom by King Childebert III.

The number of years Hermelandus spent as the Abbot remains uncertain; we know only that he abdicated power late in life, dying under his second successor between 710 and 730.

In 843, the Abbey of Aindre, unfortunately, was destroyed by the Normans and was never rebuilt.
Devotion to Saint Hermelandus spread over the centuries, as evidenced by the miracle which occurred in the 12th Century in a Church dedicated to him in Rouen. His Relics, twere ransferred to Bagneux and Loches, to escape the Norman invasions, continue to attract the veneration of the faithful.

At the time of the Revolution , the silver Reliquary was removed but the Relics were saved. Then placed in the Collegiate Church of Saint-Ours in Loches , they were returned in 1848, to the Church which bears his name of Saint-Herblain.

Posted in FEASTS and SOLEMNITIES, SAINT of the DAY, The ANNUNCIATION, The INCARNATION

The Annunciation of the Blessed Virgin Mary, St Dismas and the Saints for 25 March

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The Annunciation of the Blessed Virgin Mary
HERE:
https://anastpaul.com/2019/03/25/the-solemnity-of-the-annunciation-of-the-lord-25-march/
AND:
https://anastpaul.com/2021/03/25/the-solemnity-of-the-annunciation-of-the-lord-our-lady-of-betania-and-memorials-of-the-saints-25-march/

By Paolo Matteis

St Alfwold of Sherborne
St Barontius of Pistoia
St Desiderius of Pistoia

St Dismas (Crucified with Jesus) “The Good Thief”
Here:
https://anastpaul.com/2021/03/25/saint-of-the-day-25-march-saint-dismas-the-good-thief/

St Dula the Slave
Bl Everard of Nellenburg
Bl Herman of Zahringen
St Hermelandus (Died c720) Priest, Abbot
St Humbert of Pelagius
Bl James Bird
St Kennocha of Fife

St Lucia Filippini (1672-1732) Virgin, Religious Sister, Founder. On 22 June 1930, Lucia Filippini was declared a Saint of the Church by Pope Pius XI and her Statue was given the last available niche in the Basilica of Saint Peter in Rome. Her statue can be seen in the first upper niche from the main entrance on the left (south) side of the nave of St Peter’s.
Biography:
https://anastpaul.com/2022/03/25/saint-of-the-day-25-march-st-lucia-filippini-1672-1732/

Blessed Margaret Clitherow (1556-1586) Martyr, Married Laywoman and Mother of 3. Her 2 sons became Priests and her daughter a Nun. She is one of the Forty Martyrs of England and Wales. She was Beatified on 15 December 1929 by Pope Pius XI.
Her Life and Most Horrible Death:
https://anastpaul.com/2023/03/25/saint-of-the-day-25-march-saint-margaret-clitherow-1556-1586-the-pearl-of-york-marty/

St Matrona of Barcelona
St Matrona of Thessaloniki
St Mona of Milan
St Nicodemus of Mammola
St Pelagius of Laodicea Bishop

Blessed Placido Riccardi OSB (1844-1915. Priest and Friar of the Order of St Benedict. He was Beatified on 5 Dercember 1954 by Pope Pius XII. PATRONAGES – against Malaria, against all bodily illnesses
A Devout and Dedicated Servant:
https://anastpaul.com/2024/03/25/saint-of-the-day-25-march-blessed-placido-riccardi-osb-1844-1915-priest/

St Procopius
St Quirinus of Rome
Bl Tommaso of Costacciaro

262 Martyrs of Rome: A group 262 Christians Martyred together in Rome. We know nothing else about them, not even their names.

Posted in SAINT of the DAY

Saint of the Day – 24 March – Saint Severus (Died c814) Bishop of Catania, Sicily, Italy.

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Saint of the Day – 24 March – Saint Severus (Died c814) Bishop of Catania, Sicily, Italy. Also known as – Severo.

In the official chronology of the Diocese he is listed in the 19th place. He succeeds Teodoro mentioned in 787. In the list of Diocesan Bishops Severus is not historically documented but is known only thanks to some hagiographic texts written between the 8th and 9th Centuries. Tradition tells us his Episcopate was administered between the years 802 and 814.

Catania Cathedral

Severus governed the Diocese in a saintly manner, with his word and example, deserving the highest praise from all. There are a few citations of his memory in the Menologium of Cardinal Sirleto and in the National Library of Paris.

The Bollandists cite him as follows: “24 March – memory of Severus, Bishop of Catania, a City in Sicily.”

In the modern lists of Bishops of Catania, another San Severo (or Everio) has also been included in second place and a San Severino in fourth place. According to the historian, Francesco Lanzoni, “they could be a back projection of the holy Bishop Severus, whose Episcopate dates to the beginning of the 9th Century.”

In the Baptistery of the Basilica of Maria Santissima dell’Elemosina, better known as the Collegiate Basilica of Catania, there is an image of our Saint Severus. This is the Basilica below which contains many magnificent paintings, statues, sacred vessels, murals and more but I could not find our Saint Severus.

Posted in ArchAngels and Angels, MARIAN TITLES, SAINT of the DAY

The Feast of Saint Gabriel, the Archangel, Notre-Dame de L’épine Fleurie / Our Lady of the Flowering Thorn, France and Memorials of the Saints for 24 March

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The Archangel Saint Gabriel
The Feast of Saint Gabriel was included by Pope Benedict XV in the General Roman Calendar in 1921, for celebration on 24 March.
The Archangel Saint Gabriel’s name means “the Power of God” He appeared to the Prophet Daniel (Dan 8:16; 9:21), to the priest Zachary to announce the forthcoming birth of Saint John the Baptist (Luke 1:11, 19) and, most importantly, to the Blessed Virgin Mary to announce the birth of Our Saviour (Luke 1:26).
St Gabriel!
https://anastpaul.com/2022/03/24/saint-of-the-day-24-march-the-archangel-saint-gabriel/

Notre-Dame de L’épine Fleurie / Our Lady of the Flowering Thorn, France – 24 March:
HERE:
https://anastpaul.com/2021/03/24/our-lady-of-the-flowering-thorn-and-memorials-of-the-saints-24-march/

St Agapitus of Synnada (Died 3rd Century) Bishop of Synnada, Phrygia, in Asia Minor. Its site is now occupied by the modern Turkish Town of Suhut. We have no further information on the life of St Agapitus..

St Aldemar the Wise OSB (985-c1080) Italian Priest, Abbot, founder of many Monasteries, Miracle-worker.
A Most Gifted Man:
https://anastpaul.com/2023/03/24/saint-of-the-day-24-march-st-aldemar-the-wise-osb-985-c1080-priest-abbot/

St Bernulf of Mondov
Bl Bertha de’Alberti of Cavriglia

Blessed Bertrada of Laon (c726-783) Married to King Pepin the Short. Queen of the Franks. Mother of Blessed Charlemagne.
A Life of Piety:
https://anastpaul.com/2024/03/24/saint-of-the-day-24-march-blessed-bertrada-of-laon-c726-783-queen/

St Caimin of Lough Derg
St Cairlon of Cashel

St Catherine (1331-1381) Widow, Nun of the Brigittine Order in Sweden . Catherine was Canonised in 1484 by Pope Innocent VIII.
Dedicated St Catherine:
https://anastpaul.com/2019/03/24/saint-of-the-day-24-march-st-catherine-of-sweden-1331-1381/

Blessed Diego José /Blessed Didacus Joseph OFM Cap (1743–1801) Spanish Capuchin Priest Friar in Cadiz, renowned Preacher, Missionary. He was Beatified on 22 April 1894 by Pope Leo XIII.
A Life of Love:
https://anastpaul.com/2020/03/24/saints-of-the-day-24-march-blessed-didacus-joseph-of-cadiz-ofm-cap-1743-1801/

St Domangard of Maghera
St Epicharis of Rome
St Epigmenius of Rome
St Hildelith of Barking

Blessed John dal Bastone OSB Silv. (c1200-1290) Priest, Monk. He was Beatified on 29 August 1772 by Pope Clement XIV.
His Life:
https://anastpaul.com/2021/03/24/saint-of-the-day-24-march-blessed-john-dal-bastone-c-1200-1290/

St Latinus of Brescia
St Macartan of Clogher
St Mark of Rome
St Pigmenius of Rome
St Romulus of North Africa
St Secundus of North Africa
St Seleucus
St Severus (Died c814) Bishop of Catania
St Timothy of Rome

Martyrs of Africa – 9 Saints: A group of Christians murdered for their faith in Africa, date unknown. The only details about their that survive are the names – Aprilis, Autus, Catula, Coliondola, Joseph, Rogatus, Salitor, Saturninus and Victorinus. .

Martyrs of Caesarea – 6 Saints: A group of Christians Martyred together in the persecutions of Diocletian. We know little else but six of their names – Agapius, Alexander, Dionysius, Pausis, Romulus and Timolaus. They were martyred by beheading in 303 at Caesarea, Palestine.

Posted in SAINT of the DAY

Saint of the Day – 23 March – Saint Felix OSB (10th-11th Century) Monk of Monte Cassino,

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Saint of the Day – 23 March – Saint Felix OSB (10th-11th Century) Monk of Monte Cassino, spiritual teacher and director to the shepherds in the area. Patronage – against jaundice. Also known as – Felix of Chieti, Felice… Fele… Féle…

Little is known regarding Felix’s personal history. That which we do have, has been handed down by Desiderio, the renowned Abbot of Montecassino, who became Pope Victor III (Died 1087).

The Pontiff, while in Chieti, saw an Altar dedicated to a blessed Saint in the Cathedral there. He turned to the Bishop and learned that the Altar was dedicated to Felix, a Monk from Monte Cassino, who had been sent by his Abbot to spiritually assist the shepherds who lived in that area.

Chieti Cathedral

After the Monk’s death, numerous miracles occurred through his intercession, so much so, that his body was elevated and transferred to the Cathedral. The Pontiff upon hearing the tale immediately called the Monk Felix and blessed. The Benedictine Monk Bucelino, included him in his Martyrology with the title of Saint.

Some sources state: “There are some references to the Benedictine friar, sent to Chieti to assist the shepherds, probably between the 10th and 11th Centuries, referring to a St Felix of Chieti, probably identifiable with tour Saint Felix mentioned in two parchments preserved in the Archives of the Archbishop’s Curia.”

Felix’s cult as ‘Blessed’ or Fele (“Sante Féle” in dialect), is considered a protector against jaundice, flourished thanks to the pilgrims from various parts of Abruzzo, who flocked to invoke his aid in prayer.

Some of his Relics (at least eleven including hair, bones and other items) are preserved in the Chapel of the Sacrament of the Cathedral of Chieti. St Felix (?) Feastday has been set for 23 March.

Posted in MARIAN TITLES, SAINT of the DAY

Lent III – The Third Sunday in Lent, Madonna della Vittoria di Lepanto / Our Lady of Victory of Lepanto and Hungary (1716) and the Saints for 23 March

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Lent III – The Third Sunday in Lent

Madonna della Vittoria di Lepanto / Our Lady of Victory of Lepanto and Hungary (1716) – 23 March:
HERE:
https://anastpaul.com/2021/03/23/our-lady-of-victory-of-lepanto-and-hungary-1716-and-memorials-of-the-saints-23-march/

St Benedict of Campagna
St Crescentius of Carthage

St Ethelwald of Farne (Died 699) Priest, Monk and Hermit, Miracle-worker. St Bede has recorded some of his life and miracles.
St Ethelwald’s Life:
https://anastpaul.com/2024/03/23/saint-of-the-day-23-march-saint-ethelwald-of-farne-died-699-priest-hermit/

St Felix the Martyr
St Felix OSB (10th-11th Century) Monk of Monte Cassino
St Fergus of Duleek
St Fidelis the Martyr
St Frumentius of Hadrumetum
St Gwinear

St Joseph Oriol (1650-1702) Priest, Confessor, graced with the charism of prophecy, Penitent, Apostle prayer and the sick and Miracle-worker. Known as the Miracle-worker of Barcelona. He was Canonised on 20 May 1909 by Pope Pius X.
His Life of Grace:
https://anastpaul.com/2019/03/23/saint-of-the-day-23-march-st-joseph-oriol-1650-1702/

St Julian the Confessor
St Liberatus of Carthage
St Maidoc of Fiddown
St Nicon of Sicily

St Ottone Frangipane (1040-1127) Layman, military Knight, Pilgrim, Ascetic, Hermit, Miracle-worker both during life and after his death. Founder of a Pilgrim’s Hospice in Ariano which later became a huge Hospital. Born in 1040 in Rome, Italy and died on 23 March 1127 in Ariano Irpino, Italy of natural causes.
His Life:
https://anastpaul.com/2023/03/23/saint-of-the-day-23-march-st-ottone-frangipane-1040-1127/

Blessed Pietro of Gubbio OSA (Died c1306) Priest and Friar of the Order of Hermits of St Augustine, Lawyer, noted Preacher, Envoy for the Order, Miracle-worker. Pietro was Beatified in 1874 by Pope Pius IX (cultus confirmation).
His Life:
https://anastpaul.com/2022/03/23/saint-of-the-day-23-march-blessed-pietro-of-gubbio-osa-died-c-1306/

St Theodolus Priest in Antioch, Syria. No other information has survived.

St Turibius (1538-1606) Spanish ArchBishop of Lima in Peru, Lawyer, Missionary, Preacher, Reformer, Professor, Miracle-worker. Patronages – Peru, Lima, Latin American Bishops, Native rights, Scouts, Valladolid. St Turibius predicted the exact date and hour he would die, which would come to pass. His reputation for holiness and learning was never forgotten for it led to calls for his Canonisation. Pope Innocent XI Beatified and Pope Benedict XIII Canonise him on 10 December 1726.
Amazing St Turibius:
https://anastpaul.com/2018/03/23/saint-of-the-day-23-march-st-turibius-of-mogrovejo-1538-1606/


St Victorian of Hadrumetum

St Walter of Pontoise OSB (c1030-c 1099) A very reluctant Abbot, Reformer, would-be hermit.
About St Walter:
https://anastpaul.com/2021/03/23/saint-of-the-day-23-march-saint-walter-of-pontoise-osb-c-1030-c-1099-a-very-reluctant-abbot/

Daughters of Feradhach: They are mentioned in early calendars and martyrologies but no information about them has survived.

Martyrs of Caesarea – 5 Saints: A group of five Christians who protested public games which were dedicated to pagan gods. Martyred in the persecutions Julian the Apostate. The only details we know about them are their names – Aquila, Domitius, Eparchius, Pelagia and Theodosia. They were martyred in 361 in Caesarea, Palestine.

Posted in SAINT of the DAY, WIDOWS and WIDOWERS

Saint of the Day – 22 March – Saint Lea (Died 384) Widow

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Saint of the Day – 22 March – Saint Lea (Died 384) Widow of Rome, a disciple of St Jerome, Nun, Prioress, Died in 384 of natural causes in Ostia, Rome. Patronage – of widows.

The Roman Martyrology reads today: “At Rome, St Lea, a widow, whose virtues and happy death are related by St Jerome.”

A letter which St Jerome wrote to St Marcella, the noblewoman and leader of a female community of a monastic type, who had gathered in her residence on the Aventine Way, provides the only information we have of St Lea.

Lea, herself of a noble and rich family, was a widow, who upon the death of her husband, she instead of re-marrying as had been arranged for her, entered St Marcella’s community, where they studied the Scriptures and fasted and prayed, living in chastity and poverty. Lea ultimately became the Superior.

St Jerome’s correspondence, written after Lea’s death, concentrated on Lea’s final fate in comparison with that of a Consul who had recently died. St Jerome’s words:

“Who will praise the blessed Lea as she deserves? She renounced painting her face and adorning her head with shining pearls. She exchanged her rich attire for sackcloth and ceased to command others, in order to obey all. She dwelt in a corner with a few bits of furniture; she spent her nights in prayer and instructed her companions through her exampl, rather than through protests and speeches. And she looked forward to her arrival in Heaven in order to receive her recompense for the virtues which she practiced on earth.

So it is that thenceforth, she enjoyed perfect happiness. From Abraham’s bosom, where she resides with Lazarus, she sees our consul who was once decked out in purple, now vested in a shameful robe, vainly begging for a drop of water to quench his thirst. Although he went up to the capital, to the plaudits of the people and his death occasioned widespread grief, it is futile for the wife to assert, he has gone to Heaven and possesses a great mansion there. The fact is, he is plunged into the darkness outside, whereas Lea, who was willing to be considered a fool on earth, has been received into the House of the Father,, at the Wedding Feast of the Lamb.
Hence, I tearfully beg you to refrain from seeking the favors of the world and to renounce all that is carnal. It is impossible to follow both the world and Jesus.
Let us live a life of renunciation, for our bodies will soon be dust and nothing else will last any longer.”

Posted in MARIAN TITLES, SAINT of the DAY

A Day of Fasting, Notre-Dame-de-Citeaux / Our Lady of Citeaux, France built by St Robert (1098), Nostra Signora dei Sette Veli / Our Lady of the Seven Veils, Foggia, Italy (11th Century), St Isidore the Farmer, St Catherine of Genoa and the Saints for 22 March

Posted on by AnaStpaul

SATURDAY of the Second Week in Lent – FAST

Notre-Dame-de-Citeaux / Our Lady of Citeaux, France built by St Robert (1098) – 22 March:
HERE:
https://anastpaul.com/2021/03/22/our-lady-of-citeaux-france-built-by-st-robert-1098-our-lady-of-the-seven-veils-11th-century-our-lady-of-sorrows-of-castelpetroso-italy-1888-and-memorials-of-the-saints-22-march/

Nostra Signora dei Sette Veli / Our Lady of the Seven Veils, Foggia, Italy (11th Century) – 22 March:
About:
https://anastpaul.wordpress.com/2018/03/22/memorial-of-our-lady-of-the-seven-veils-and-memorials-of-the-saints-22-march/

St Isidore the Farmer (c1070 -1130) – Confessor, Farm Worker and Apostle of Charity.
Additional Memorials, 15 May, 25 October.– these occur in local calendars.
About St Isidore:
https://anastpaul.com/2017/05/15/saint-of-the-day-15-may-isidore-the-farmer/

St Catherine of Genoa (1447-1510) Widow, Mystic, Apostle of the sick, the poor and the needy, Writer.
Her Feast Day was moved after Vatican II to 15 September but today is the date of her death.
Her Life:
https://anastpaul.com/2020/09/15/saint-of-the-day-15-september-st-catherine-of-genoa-1447-1510/

St Avitus of Périgord
St Basil of Ancyra
St Basilissa of Galatia

St Benevenuto Scotivoli (c1188-1282) Bishop of Osimo in Italy, Reformer. He was Canonised in 1284 by Pope Martin IV.
Biography:
https://anastpaul.com/2021/03/22/saint-of-the-day-22-march-saint-benevenuto-scotivoli-of-osimo-c-1188-1282/

St Callinica of Galatia
St Catherine of Sweden
St Darerca of Ireland
St Deghitche

St Epaphroditus (1st Century) First Bishop of Terracina, Italy, Missionary, Evangelist, Disciple of the Apostles, Friend and Envoy of St Paul Apostle. St Hippolytus’ list of the Seventy Disciples includes “Epaphroditus, Bishop of Andriace.”
The Roman Martyrology reads: “At Terracina, St Epaphroditus, a disciple of the Apostles, who was Consecrated Bishop of that City by the blessed Apostle Peter.”
Biography:
https://anastpaul.com/2022/03/22/saint-of-the-day-22-march-saint-epaphroditus-of-terracina-1st-century/

St Failbhe of Iona
St Harlindis of Arland

Blessed Hugolinus Zefferini OSA (c1320-1367) Italian Priest, Friar of the Hermits of St Augustine, Hermit, Miracle-worker. Patronage – Cortona, Italy (chosen by the citizeins in 1508). Blessed Hugolinus was Beatified in 1804 by Pope Pius VII
His Life:
https://anastpaul.com/2023/03/22/saint-of-the-day-22-march-blessed-hugolinus-zefferini-osa-c1320-1367-pries/

St Lea (Died 384) Widow of Rome

Blessed Lukarda O.Cist (c1275-1309) Virgin, German Cistercian Nun in Oberweimar , Mystic , Stigmatist, Miracle-worker. Born in c1275, probably in Erfurt, Germany and died on 22 March (Palm Sunday) 1309 at the Oberweimar Abbey, Weimar, Thuringia (in modern Germany) of natural causes, aged 33.
Amazing Lukarda!:
https://anastpaul.com/2024/03/22/saint-of-the-day-22-march-blessed-lukarda-of-oberweimar-o-cist-c1275-1309-virgin/

St Nicholas Owen SJ (1562-1606) – The Priest-Hole Builder, Martyr, Lay Brother of the Society of Jesus
Dear St Nicholas Owen:
https://anastpaul.wordpress.com/2018/03/22/saint-of-the-day-22-march-st-nicholas-owen-s-j-1562-1606-the-priest-hole-builder-martyr/

St Octavian of Carthage
St Paul of Narbonne
St Saturninus the Martyr

Posted in SAINT of the DAY

Saint of the Day – 21 March – Saint Birillus (Died c90) Bishop

Posted on by AnaStpaul

Saint of the Day – 21 March – Saint Birillus (Died c90) the 1st Bishop of Catania, Consecrated by St Peter, Missionary. Born in Antioch (in modern Turkey) and died in c90 in Catania, Italy of natural causes . Patronage – of the Archdiocese of Catania, Italy. Also known as – Berillo, Beryl, Beryllus, Brillus.

The Roman Martyrology reads today: “At Catania, St Brillus, who was Consecrated Bishop by St Peter. After converting many Gentiles to the Faith, he rested in peace in extremely old age.”

St Peter Consecrates St Birillus Bishop, 1693, in the Cathedral in Catania by Andrea Suppa

Birillus was Consecrated Bishop by St Peter in Antioch in 42 and sent to Catania as a Missionary. After a long service as the City’s 1st Bishop, he died at an advanced age.

St Peter sends St Birillus to preach the Gospel

Birillus was first mentioned in the 8th Century in the biography of Leo of Catania, then in that of Pancras of Taormina and in two liturgical texts of the 9th Century.

In fact, the City’s first Cathedral, from 380 onward, was the Church of Sant’Agata la Vetere —probably only appeared in the 3rd/4th Century.

The tradition concerning Birillus is, therefore, uncertain, nevertheless, he is highly revered in his City of Catania.

Posted in MARIAN TITLES, SAINT of the DAY, The PASSION, The SEVEN PASSION Feasts

The Feast of the Holy Shroud of Jesus, Onze-Lieve-Vrouw van Bruges / Our Lady of Bruges, Flanders (1150), where a lock of Our Lady’s hair is preserved, St Benedict OSB (c480-547) Abbot, Patron of Europe and Founder of Western Monasticism and the Saints for 21 March

Posted on by AnaStpaul

The Feast of the Holy Shroud of Jesus
Today’s Feast which, since 1831, is contained in the appendix of the Breviary, on the Friday after the Second Sunday in Lent, is independent of any particular Relic but, before 1831 it was rarely found on the Diocesan Calendars.
The Office is taken from the Proprium of Turin.”
HERE:
https://anastpaul.com/2024/03/01/the-feast-of-the-holy-shroud-of-jesus-celebrated-on-friday-after-the-second-sunday-of-lent-1-march/

Onze-Lieve-Vrouw van Bruges / Our Lady of Bruges, Flanders (1150), where a lock of Our Lady’s hair is preserved – 21 March:
HERE:
https://anastpaul.com/2021/03/21/passion-sunday-or-the-fifth-suday-of-lent-2021-our-lady-of-bruges-flanders-1150-and-memorials-of-the-saints-21-march/

Michelangelo Buonarroti; Bruges

St Benedict OSB (c480-547) Abbot, Patron of Europe and Founder of Western Monasticism.
His Feast Day was moved in 1969.
The Twin Brother of St Scholastica:
https://anastpaul.com/2018/07/11/saint-of-the-day-11-july-st-benedict-of-nursia-osb-c-480-547-patron-of-europe-and-founder-of-western-monasticism/
AND:
https://anastpaul.com/2017/07/11/saint-of-the-day-11-july-st-benedict-of-nursia-o-s-b-abbot-patron-of-europe-patronus-europae/
AND:
https://anastpaul.com/2023/03/21/saint-of-the-day-21-march-st-benedict-dom-prosper-gueranger-on-the-medal/

Bl Alfonso de Rojas
St Birillus (Died c90) Bishop of Catania
St Christian of Cologne
St Domninus of Rome

St Enda (c450 – c530) Monk, Abbot of Aran “Father of Irish Monasticism” and Aran is known as “Aran of the Saints.”
“Father of Irish Monasticism” :
https://anastpaul.com/2020/03/21/saint-of-the-day-21-march-st-enda-of-aran-c-450-c-530-patriarch-of-irish-monasticism/

St Isenger of Verdun
St James the Confessor

St John (Died 1146) Bishop of Valence , Founder of the Abbey of Bonnevaux, Monk, Abbot, Apostle of the poor, Social Reformer.
The Roman Martyrology reads: “In Valence in the territory of Vienne in France, St John, Bishop, who, at first Abbot of Bonnevaux, suffered many adversities for the defence of justice and with charity took care of the peasants, the poor and the merchants ruined by debts.”
Imitating the Lord:
https://anastpaul.com/2022/03/21/saint-of-the-day-21-march-saint-john-of-valence-died-1146/

Bl Lucia of Verona (1514-1574) Laywoman, Apostle of the Sick

St Lupicinus (Died c480) brother of St Romanus (Died c460)both Abbots at Condat Monastery. St Romanus is venerated on 28 February.
St Lupinus’ Body was certainly incorrupt until the 1700s. I am not sure whether it was protected from the evils destruction of the French Revolution.
His Life of Love:
https://anastpaul.com/2024/03/21/saint-of-the-day-21-march-saint-lupicinus-of-condat-died-c480-abbot/

St Nicholas of Flue (1417-1487) Swiss Hermit and Ascetic who is the Patron Saint of Switzerland. He is sometimes invoked as Brother Klaus. A husband and father, a Mystic, a Writer, farmer, military leader, Member of the assembly, Councillor, Judge, he was respected as a man of complete moral integrity. He was Canonised on 15 May 1947 by Pope Pius XII.
Holy St Nicholas:
https://anastpaul.wordpress.com/2018/03/21/saint-of-the-day-21-march-st-nicholas-of-flue-1417-1487/St Nicholas of Flue (1417-1487)

St Serapion the Scolastic (Died c354-370) Bishop of Thmuis, near Diospolis in the Nile delta of Egypt, Monk and Hermit, Confessor, brilliant Scholar of great learning, Theologian, Writer, a companion to St Anthony, the Desert and a close friend of St Athanasius and gave support to him against the heretic Arians in Egypt, for which action he was exiled.
St Serapion’s Life:
https://anastpaul.com/2021/03/21/saint-of-the-day-21-march-saint-serapion-the-scolastic-died-c-354-370-bishop/

St Philemon of Rome
Bl Santuccia Terrebotti

Martyrs of Alexandria: A large but unknown number of Catholics massacred in several Churches during Good Friday services in Alexandria, Egypt by Arian heretics during the persecutions of Constantius and Philagrio. They were Martyred on Good Friday in 342 in Alexandria, Egypt.

Posted in Against ICONOCLASM, SAINT of the DAY

Saint of the Day – 20 March – Saint Nicetas (Died c733) Bishop of Apollonias

Posted on by AnaStpaul

Saint of the Day – 20 March – Saint Nicetas (Died c733) Bishop of Apollonias in Bithynia, a region of Asia Minor, Defender of the veneration of holy images. We have no history of his birthplace but he died in exile in c733, presumably of natural causes, although some refer to him as a Martyr. Also known as – Nicetas of Apollonias, … of Bithynia, Niceta.

The Roman Martyrology reads today: “At Apollonia, the Bishop, St Nicetas, who breathed his last in exile, where he had been sent for upholding the veneration of holy images.”

Am unknown Saintly Bishop’s Benediction

The history of the Church preserves the memories of countless figures who, by their courage and dedication, have helped shape Christian doctrine and tradition. Among these, the figure of Saint Nicetas, Bishop of Apollonias, (in modern Turkey) is distinguished as a silent hero of the Faith whose tale, although fragmentary, offers us food for thought and admiration.

Unfortunately, information regarding St Nicetas is limited. The records of Constantinople describes him as a “Most Orthodox” Bishop of Apollonias, who lived during the era of denying the benefits of the veneration of holy images, a turbulent period in which sacred images were the subject of heated controversy and destruction.

Nicetas not only remained faithful to the cult of images but too, suffered harsh persecution for his unshakable faith. His resistance eventually led him to exile, where he died in circumstances which remain unknown.

The precise identification of Apollonias, the City of which Nicetas was the Bishop, presents several difficulties. In fact, there are several Cities with this name in the ancient Christian world. The most widespread tradition places him in Bithynia, a region of Asia Minor. However, some scholars hypothesise that Nicetas may have been the Bishop of another Apolloniad, located in Thrace or Illyria.

The date and circumstances of the death of Saint Nicetas is also uncertain. Some hypothese associate him with the persecution of Leo the Isaurian (717-741), while others place him at the time of Leo the Armenian (813-820), both anti-veneration of holy images.

Posted in DOMINICAN OP, MARIAN TITLES, SAINT of the DAY

Our Lady of Calevourt, Belgium (1454), St Photina & Companions, St Cuthbert of Lindisfarne and the Saints for 20 March

Posted on by AnaStpaul

Ferial Day, Thursday after the Second Sunday in Lent

Our Lady of Calevourt, near Brussels, Belgium (1454) – 20 March:
HERE:
https://anastpaul.com/2021/03/20/our-lady-of-calevourt-near-brussels-belgium-1454-and-memorials-of-the-saints-20-march/

St Photina & Companions / Martyrs of Rome – 9+ Saints: A group of Christians Martyred together in the persecutions of Nero. We know nothing else about them but the names Photina, Sebastian and Victor, Anatolius, Cyriaca, Joseph, Parasceve, Photis.

St Cuthbert of Lindisfarne (c634-687) “The Wonder-Worker of England,” Bishop of Lindisfarne, Monk, Hermit, Miracle-worker.
St Cuthbert’s Zealous Life:
https://anastpaul.com/2022/03/20/saint-of-the-day-20-march-saint-cuthbert-of-lindisfarne-c-634-687-the-wonder-worker-of-england/

Blessed Ambrose Sansedoni OP (1220-1287) Priest and Friar of the Order of Preachers, Preachers, Confessor, Mystic, a powerful and convincing Preacher employed by various Popes as a Diplomatic Peacemaker and that which seems opposed, as a Preacher of the Crusades, Peacemaker. A fellow student with St Thomas Aquinas under St Albert Magnus.
His Life:
https://anastpaul.com/2023/03/20/saint-of-the-day-19march-blessed-ambrose-sansedoni-of-siena-op-1220-1287-priest/

Anastasius XVI
Archippus of Colossi
St Benignus of Flay
St Cathcan of Rath-derthaighe
St Clement of Ireland

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.
The Rain-Maker:
https://anastpaul.com/2024/03/20/saint-of-the-day-20-march-st-guillermo-de-penacorada-died-c1042-abbot/

St Herbert of Derwenwater
Bl Hippolytus Galantini
Bl Jeanne Veron
Bl John Baptist Spagnuolo
St John Nepomucene
St John Sergius

St Martin (c520–580) Archbishop of Braga, Monk, Missionary, Monastic Founder, prolific Ecclesiastical Writer.
Biography:
https://anastpaul.wordpress.com/2018/03/20/saint-of-the-day-20-march-st-martin-of-braga-c-520-580/

St Nicetas (Died c733) Bishop of Apollonias
St Remigius of Strasbourg
St Tertricus of Langres
St Urbitius of Metz

St Wulfram (c640-c 703) Archbishop of Sens, France and Confessor, Missionary, Miracle-worker.
Patronages – Abbeville, France, against the dangers of the sea/of sailors, childbirth and young children.
His Life of Love:
https://anastpaul.com/2021/03/20/saint-of-the-day-20-march-saint-wulfram-of-sens-c-640-c-703/

Martyrs of Amisus – 8 Saints: A group of Christian women Martyred together in the persecutions of Diocletian. The only details we have are eight of their names – Alexandra, Caldia, Derphuta, Euphemia, Euphrasia, Juliana, Matrona and Theodosia. They were burned to death c 300 in Amisus, Paphlagonia (modern Samsun, Turkey).

Martyrs of San Saba – 20 Saints: Twenty monks who were Martyred together in their monastery by invading Saracens. They were Martyred in 797 when they were burned inside the San Sabas monastery in Palestine.

Martyrs of Syria – 3+ Saints: A group of Christians who were Martyred together in Syria. We know nothing else about them but the names Cyril, Eugene and Paul.

Posted in SAINT of the DAY

Saint of the Day – 19 March – Saint John (6th Century) Abbot

Posted on by AnaStpaul

Saint of the Day – 19 March – Saint John (6th Century) Founder Abbot in Civita-di-Penna, Umbria, Italy, Miracle-worker. Accounts of John’s birthplace differ but he certainly died at his Monastery, dedicated to St Stephen, in Penna, Umbria of natural causes. Also known as – Giovanni/John di Penna, of Panaca, of Parran, the Abbot, the Syrian.

The Roman Martyrology reads today: “At Civita-di-Penna, the birthday of the blessed St Joh, a man of great holiness, who came from Syria into Italy, where he constructed a Monastery and, after having been the spiritual guide of many servants of God for forty-four years, rested in peace, renowned for great virtue.”

Unknown Monk

There is an ancient legendary Vita which states that he was born in Syria in the 6th Century and being persecuted by the heretical monophysites, he fled to Italy. He arrived in the dead of winter, when the trees were bare of leaves and fruit. Some hunters witnessed John sit beside a bare, leafless pear tree which suddenly burst into full bloom due to the holy man’s proximity, supplying him and all who passed by with delicious fruit.

He settled in the locality of Nocera in the Diocese of Spoleto.
In this pleasant locality, he founded his own Monastery which he then led as the Abbot for for 44 years.

As the Abbot, he instructed and assisted numerous young Monks to increase in virtue and sanctity, ever ascending the ladder of perfection. John used the instruments of silence and prayer as the greatest means of achieving perfection.

In the Roman Martyrology it is stated that he was the father of numerous servants of God. In the volume of the Biblioteca Sanctorum, under the entry Giovanni di Penna, it is reported that even if the Roman Martyrology indicates him as being from Penna, it seems that this transcription is incorrect, while on various other Italian platforms, he is described as being from Spoleto in Umbria.

Saint John the Abbot is also remembered both in the Martyrology of Adone and in that of Usuardo.

Posted in DOMINICAN OP, franciscan OFM, INCORRUPTIBLES, SAINT of the DAY

St Joseph! and the Saints for 19 March

Posted on by AnaStpaul

Feast of St Joseph – FAST

St Joseph, Spouse of the Blessed Virgin Mary – 19 March (trasferred to today due to yesterday being Laetare Sunbday).:
HERE:
https://anastpaul.com/2021/03/19/solemnity-of-st-joseph-spouse-of-the-blessed-virgin-mary-and-memorials-of-the-saints-1-9-march/
St Joseph!
https://anastpaul.wordpress.com/2018/03/19/saint-of-the-day-19-march-the-solemnity-of-st-joseph-spouse-of-the-most-blessed-virgin-mary-mother-of-god-and-patron-of-the-universal-church/
AND – Do Not Forget St Joseph! – The Story of a Miracle in South Africa:
https://anastpaul.com/2022/03/19/second-thought-for-the-day-19-march-do-not-forget-st-joseph/

St Adrian of Maastricht
St Alkmund of Northumbria
St Amantius of Wintershoven

Blessed Andrea Gallerani (Died 1251) Layman, Penitent, Founder of a Lay Apostolate known as “The Friars of Mercy” (Frati della Misericordia). Andrea was Beatified on 13 May 1798 by Pope Pius VI (cultus confirmation).
His Holy Life:
https://anastpaul.com/2022/03/19/saint-of-the-day-19-march-blessed-andrea-gallerani-died-1251/

St Apollonius of Braga
St Auxilius of Ireland

Blessed Clement of Dunblane (1200-1258) Bishop of Dunblane in Scotland, , Priest and Friar of the Order of Preachers, a great and humble carer of the poor and needy, a zealous Administrator but just as much, a shepherd of souls, Reformer, Writer, a highly renowned Preacher and Linguist, a very learned man indeed. Clement was the first member of the Dominican Order in Britain and Ireland to become a Bishop. Born in Scotland in 1200 and died in 1258 in Dunblane, Scotland of natural causes.
An Inspiring Life:
https://anastpaul.com/2023/03/19/saint-of-the-day-19-march-blessed-clement-of-dunblane-op-1200-1258-bishop/

St Colocer of Saint-Brieuc
St Corbasius of Quimperlé
St Cuthbert of Brittany
St Gemus

Blessed Isnard de Chiampo OP (Died 1244) Priest of the Order of Preachers, known as the “Apostle of Pavia,” Confessor, Miracle-worker,
His Life:
https://anastpaul.com/2021/03/19/saint-of-the-day-19-march-blessed-isnard-de-chiampo-op-died-1244-priest-the-apostle-of-pavia/

Blessed John of Parma OFM (c1209-1289) Priest, 7th Minister General of the Friars Minor from (1247–1257) and a noted Theologian. He was known for his attempts to bring back the earlier spirit of the Order after the death of Saint Francis of Assisi. Patronage – of his birthplace, Parma, Italy. His cult was confirmed in 1777 by his Beatification by Pope Pius VI.
Blessed John’s Zealous Life:
https://anastpaul.com/2024/03/19/saint-of-the-day-19-march-blessed-john-of-parma-ofm-c1209-1289-priest/

St John (6th Century) Abbot in Umbria, Italy
St Lactali of Freshford
St Landoald of Maastricht
St Leontinus of Braga
St Leontinus of Saintes
Bl Mark of Montegallo
St Pancharius of Nicomedia

Blessed Sibyllina Biscossi OP (1287-1367) Blind Dominican Virgin and Recluse, Penitent, Miracle-worker. She was Beatified on 17 August 1854 by Pope Pius IX. Her body is incorrupt.
Her Life:
https://anastpaul.com/2020/03/19/saint-of-the-day-19-march-blessed-sibyllina-biscossi-op-1287-1367/

Martyrs of Sorrento: A group of Three sisters and a brother who were Martyred together. We have little more than their names – Mark, Quartilla, Quintilla and Quintius. They were Martyred in Sorrento, Italy, date unknown.

Posted in SAINT of the DAY

Saint of the Day – 18 March – Blessed Christian O’Conarchy (c1100-1186) O.Cist. Abbot

Posted on by AnaStpaul

Saint of the Day – 18 March – Blessed Christian O’Conarchy (c1100-1186) O.Cist. Abbot, a disciple and then the Archdeacon of the renowned St Malacy O’More (1094 – 1148) , the Bishop and Confessor of Armagh, possibly also the Bishop of Lismore and the Papal Legate of all Ireland, although these latter Offices are unconfirmed. Born in c1100 at Bangor, County Down, Ireland and died in 1186 at Odorney Abbey, Ireland of natural causes. Also known as – Christianus, Giolla Criost Ua Condoirche.

Beyond the fact that Christian was the Abbot of the first Cistercian Monastery established in Ireland, practically nothing at all can be stated with certainty about his life.

The various traditions and legends are confused and conflicting. According to some accounts, he was born at Bangor in Ulster,and some reports say he was the disciple and then, the Archdeacon of St.Malachy the Bishop of Armagh. Christian probably accompanied the Prelate on a visit to Rome, visiting at Clairvaux on their way there.

It is believed that Christian was one of the four disciples of St Malachy, who remained behind at Clairvaux on the homeward journey and who received the Habit from St Bernard himself.

St Bernard

Upon Christian’s return to Ireland, St Malachy was anxious to introduce the Cistercian Order into Ireland and, at his prompting, Christian set about building Mellifont Monastery. In 1142, St Malachy applied to St Bermard to appoint a Superior and to send Monks to fill the new Monastery and St Bernard appointed Christian as the Abbot and sent several French brothers.

The ruins of the Mellifont Monastery built by Blessed Christian under instruction from St Malachy

Christian is said, by some writers, to have become the Bishop of Lismore andthe Papal Legate for Ireland. An ancient anonymous Irish analyst notes the year 1186 as the date of the death of Christian, the illustrious Prelate of Lismore, “formally Legate of Ireland, emulator of the virtues which he saw and heard from his holy father, St Bernard and from the Supreme Pontiff, the venerable man Eugenius, with whom he was in the novitiate at Clairvaux.”

The new Mellifont Monastery built after the reformation
Posted in franciscan OFM, INCORRUPTIBLES, MARIAN TITLES, SAINT of the DAY

 Nostra Signora della Misericordia / Our Lady of Mercy, Italy (1536), St Cyril of Jerusalem and the Saints for 18 March

Posted on by AnaStpaul

Nostra Signora della Misericordia / Our Lady of Mercy, Patron of Savona, Italy (1536) – 18 March:
HERE:
https://anastpaul.com/2021/03/18/nostra-signora-della-misericordia-our-lady-of-mercy-patron-of-savona-italy-1536-and-memorials-of-the-saints-19-march/

St Cyril of Jerusalem (315-387) Bishop of Jerusalem, Confessor Father & Doctor of the Church, Theologian, Writer.
Marvellous St Cyril
https://anastpaul.com/2017/03/18/saint-of-the-day-18-march-st-cyril-of-jerusalem/
AND:
https://anastpaul.com/2024/03/18/saint-of-the-day-18-march-st-cyril-of-jerusalem-315-387-bishop-confessor-doctor/

NOVENA for the INTERCESSION of ST JOSEPJ
DAY NINE: Click Link HERE: DAY NINE

St Alexander of Jerusalem (Died 251) Bishop and Martyr
His Life and Death:
https://anastpaul.com/2021/03/18/saint-of-the-day-18-march-saint-alexander-of-jerusalem-died-251-bishop-and-martyr/

St Anselm of Lucca the Younger (1036-1086) Italian Bishop and Confessor.
About this St Anselm:
https://anastpaul.com/2020/03/18/saint-of-the-day-18-march-saint-anselm-of-lucca-the-younger-1036-1086/

St Braulio (c590-c651) Bishop of Zaragoza
Blessed Christian O’Conarchy (c1100-1186) O.Cist. Abbot

St Edward the Martyr (962-978) Child King of England.
The Roman Martyrology states today: “In England, the holy King Edward, who was assasinated by order of his treacherous stepmother and became celebrated for many miracles.”
His Life and Death:
https://anastpaul.com/2022/03/18/saint-of-the-day-18-march-saint-edward-the-martyr-c-962-978/


St Eucarpius of Nicomedia
St Felix Deacond and Martyr at Gerona, Catalonia, Spain
St Finan of Aberdeen
St Leobard of Tours
St Narcissus of Gerona

St Salvator of Horta OFM (1520-1567) Lay Brother of Friars Minor, Cook, Porter and Quester of alms, Miracle-worker. Canonised on 17 April 1938 by Pope Pius XI. His body is incorrupt.
Holy St Salvator:
https://anastpaul.com/2023/03/18/saint-of-the-day-18-march-saint-salvator-of-horta-ofm-1520-1567-lay-brother/

St Trophimus of Nicomedia

Martyrs of Nicomedia – Commemorates the Christians who were Martyred anonymously, either singly and in small groups, by local pagans in the area of Nicomedia prior to the year 300 and who may have been over-looked in the waves of Diocletian persecutions that resulted in the deaths of thousands.

Posted in FEBRUARY - THE BLESSED TRINITY (Traditional), PRAYERS of the SAINTS, QUOTES on HOPE, QUOTES on OBEDIENCE, QUOTES on the CHURCH, SAINT of the DAY, The APOSTLES & EVANGELISTS, The RESURRECTION

Quote/s of the Day – 17 March – St Patrick

Posted on by AnaStpaul

Quote/s of the Day – 17 March – St Patrick (c386-461) “The Apostle of Ireland,” Bishop, Confessor

“The man of God, Patrick, was
marvellously favoured with heavenly visions
and revelations in prayer.
‘When,’ says his biographer, ‘he everyday,
in the Mass, sacrificed the Son to the Father,
or devoutly recited the Apocalypse of St John,
it was granted to him to see the heavens opened
and Jesus standing there,
surrounded by a multitude of Angels
and whilst he meditated on these great visions,
his soul was altogether lost in God.’
Three times in the week the Angel Victor,
visited and conversed with him,
filling his soul with celestial consolations.
The labours of the day, amongst men,
seem to have been less arduous
than those of the night with God.”
(The Life of St Patrick, Apostle of Ireland)

Prayer of St Patrick

I bind unto myself today
the power in the love of the Seraphim,
in the obedience of the Angels,
in the ministration of the Archangels,
in the hope of Resurrection unto reward,
in the prayers of the Patriarchs,
in the predictions of the Prophets,
in the preaching of the Apostles,
in the faith of the Confessors,
in the purity of the holy Virgins,
in the deeds of Righteous men.
Amen

St Patrick (c386-461)
“The Apostle of Ireland”

Posted in SAINT of the DAY

Saint of the Day – 17 March – St Agricola (498-580) Bishop

Posted on by AnaStpaul

Saint of the Day – 17 March – St Agricola (498-580) Bishop of Châlon-sur-Saône, Defender of the true Faith against heretics, a zealous shepherd and teacher of his flock, Apostle of the poor and sick, building hospitals and leper colonies. He founded Churches and Monasteries. He was also a Diplomat and Peace-maker against invading barbarian forces and protector his people by his great courage. Agricola cared for his Diocese for 50 years with tireless dedication. He was born in 498 in the region and died there in 580 of natural causes. Patronage – of Châlon-sur-Saône. Also known as – Aregl, Agrele.

The Roman Martyrology reads today: “At Châlon, in France, St Agricola, Bishop.”

Born in 498 to a noble senatorial family, Agricola of Châlon-sur-Saône distinguished himself from a young age for his pious nature and religious fervour. Having received a rigorous education, he developed a keen intelligence and a profound knowledge of the Sacred Scriptures which nourished his vocation to the Divine service.

In 532, he was Consecrated as the Bishop of Châlon-sur-Saône, assuming the leadership of the Diocese with tireless zeal and exemplary dedication.

His Episcopate, which lasted about 50 years, was marked by pastoral activity aimed at caring for the flock entrusted to him. Agricola did his utmost to strengthen the faith of Christians, promoting assiduous preaching, religious instruction and the celebration of the Sacraments. With wisdom and firmness, he fought the rampant heresies, especially Arianism, strenuously defending the orthodox doctrine.

Statue in the Church Saint-Marcel near Châlon-sur-Saône where St Agricola’s FRelics are enshrined

In 535, he participated in the Synod in Arvernis —present-day Clermont-Ferrand— and sent one of his Priests to the Synod in Orléans in 538.

His tenacity and courage were particularly evident in the context of the barbarian invasions which were devastating Europe at that time. Agricola stood as a bulwark of his community, protecting it from the violence and depredations of the barbarians. With skilled diplomacy and tireless commitment, he negotiated with the various invading leaders, obtaining their protection and ensuring the survival of the Diocese.

In addition to his pastoral and civil role, Agricola also distinguished himself for his generosity and charity towards the poor and needy. He promoted the construction of hospitals and leper colonies, offering relief and comfort to the outcasts and the suffering.

His fame for sanctity spread rapidly, attracting pilgrims from all over to Châlon-sur-Saône, who sought his blessing and advice. After a life spent in the service of God and his neighbour, Saint Agricola died peacefully in 580, leaving an indelible legacy of unshakeable faith, adamantine tenacity and loving compassion.

Agricola was buried in the Church of the then Monastery in Saint-Marcel near Châlon-sur-Saône, where his remains were found in 878.