Posted in FEASTS and SOLEMNITIES, LENT- 2025, MARIAN TITLES, SAINT of the DAY, The HOLY FACE

The Feast of the Holy Face of Jesus, Shrove Tuesday, Notre-Dame-de-la-Garde / Our Lady of the Guard , Marseille, France (1221), St Casimir, St Pope Lucius Martyr and the Saints for 4 March

Shrove Tuesday: Shrove is the past tense of the word Shrive, which means “to hear a confession, assign penance and absolve from sin.”
In the Middle Ages, especially in Northern Europe and England, it became the custom to confess one’s sins on the day before Lent began in order to enter the penitential season in a repentant spirit.

Notre-Dame-de-la-Garde / Our Lady of the Guard , Marseille, France (1221) – 4 March:
HERE:

https://anastpaul.com/2021/03/04/notre-dame-de-la-garde-our-lady-of-the-guard-marseille-france-1221-and-memorials-of-the-saints-4-march/

St Casimir (1458-1484) Confessor, Prince, Celibate, Ascetic, Apostle of Prayer, Apostle of Charity and Mercy, Marian Devotee, Eucharistic Adorer, Confessor. His Body is Incorrupt.
Biography:

https://anastpaul.com/2017/03/04/saint-of-the-day-4-march-st-casimir/

St Lucius I (Died 254) Pope and Martyr. The 22nd Bishop of Rome from 25 June 253 to his death on 5 March 254. He was banished soon after his consecration but gained permission to return. Patronage – Copenhagen, Denmark. Lucius I’s Tombstone is still extant in the Catacomb of Callixtus. His Relics were later brought to the Church of Santa Cecilia in Trastevere, along with the Relics of St Cecilia and others. His head is preserved in a reliquary in St. Ansgar’s Cathedral in Copenhagen, Denmark. This Relic was brought to Roskilde around the year 1100, after Lucius had been declared Patron Saint of the Danish region Zeeland.
The Roman Martyrology reads today: “At Rome, on the Appian Way. during the persecution of Valerian, the birthday of St Lucius, Pope and Martyr, who was first exiled for the Faith of Christ but, being permitted by Divine Providence to return to his Church, he suffered Martyrdom by decapitation, after having combated the Novatians. His praises have been published by the blesseed Saint Cyprian, Bishop of Carthage(200-258).”
His Life and Death:
https://anastpaul.com/2023/03/04/saint-of-the-day-4-march-st-lucius-i-died-254-pope-and-martyr/

St Adrian of May
St Adrian of Nicomedia
Bl Alexander Blake
St Appian of Comacchio
St Arcadius of Cyprus
St Basinus of Trier
Bl Christopher Bales
St Felix (c970-1038) Abbot of Rhuys Abbey
St Gaius of Nicomedia

Blessed Humbert III Count of Savoy (1136–1189) Layman Prince. It is recorded of Humberto “who, forced to leave the cloister to deal with public affairs, practiced the monastic life with greater dedication, to which he later returned.” Born in 1136 in Avigliana, Italy and died on 4 March 1189 in Chambéry, France of natural causes. Beatified in 1838 by Pope Gregory XVI.
Holy Humbert:
https://anastpaul.com/2024/03/04/saint-of-the-day-4-march-blessed-humbert-iii-count-of-savoy-1136-1189/

St Leonard of Avranches
Bl Nicholas Horner
St Nestor the Martyr
St Owen
Bl Paolo of Brescia

St Peter of Pappacarbone (c1038-1123) Bishop, Abbot, Reformer. He was Canonised in 1893 by Pope Leo XIII.
His Life:

https://anastpaul.com/2022/03/04/saint-of-the-day-4-march-saint-peter-of-pappacarbone-c-1038-1123/

Blessed Placida Viel SSC (1815—1877) Virgin, Religious Sister of the Sisters of the Christian Schools of Mercy which Order focused on the education of girls. Placida was Beatified on 6 May 1951 by Pope Pius XII.
Bl Placida’s Life:

https://anastpaul.com/2021/03/04/saint-of-the-day-4-march-blessed-placida-viel-ssc-1815-1877/

Bl Rupert of Ottobeuren

Martyrs on the Appian Way – 900 Saints: Group of 900 Martyrs buried in the Catacombs of Saint Callixtus on the Appian Way, Rome.

Martyrs of Nicomedia – 20 Saints: A group of 20 Christians murdered together for their faith. The only details about them to survive are three of their names – Archelaus, Cyrillos and Photius. Nicomedia, Bithynia (in modern Turkey)

Martyrs of the Crimea – 7 Saints: A group of 4th century missionary Bishops who evangelised in the Crimea and southern Russia and were Martyred for their work. We know little else beyond the names – Aetherius, Agathodorus, Basil, Elpidius, Ephrem, Eugene and Gapito.

Posted in SAINT of the DAY

Saint of the Day – 3 March – Saint Titian (Died c540) Bishop of Brescia

Saint of the Day – 3 March – Saint Titian (Died c540) Bishop of Brescia, Italy. In the list of Bishops of Brescia, he is considered the 15th Bishop of Brescia, succeeding Vigilius and preceding Paul II. His Episcopate is believed to have occurred between 526 and 540. Also known as – Tiziano. Additional Memorial – 20 April together with all the Saints of Brescia.

Sadly, we know nothing of our Saints life. He was buried in the Church of Sts Cosma and Damiano, perhaps built by himself. Later a Monastery was annexed to this Church but in 1302, the entire complex was demolished by Bishop Berardo Maggi to make room for the Palazzo Broletto, currently in Piazza del Duomo.

The Church and Monastery, now a Basilica, were rebuilt to the west of the City, in the Campi Bassi area where they still are today. In 1505, St Titian’s Rrelics were translated by Bishop Paolo Zane and placed in a marble Reliquary erected on the Altar in the Chapel on the left of the nave of the new Basilica.

At the end of the 19th Century, his original marble Sarcophagus, after several moves, was placed as a fountain in a corner of Piazzetta Tito Speri, where it is currently located.

The renowned mosaic in the Basilica in Brescia
Posted in franciscan OFM, MARIAN TITLES, SAINT of the DAY

Notre-Dame des Anges / Our Lady of the Angels of Toulouse, France (1212), Blessed Benedetto Sinigardi (Author of the Angelus) and the Saints for 3 March

Notre-Dame des Anges de Toulouse / Our Lady of the Angels of Toulouse, France (1212) – 3 March:
HERE:

https://anastpaul.com/2021/03/03/our-lady-of-angels-of-toulouse-france-1212-and-memorials-of-the-saints/

Blessed Benedetto Sinigardi da Arezzo OFM (1190-1282) Friar of the Order of Friars Minor, who received the Habit directly from St Francis of Assisi. Although rarely mentioned, Blessed Benedetto is the Author of the Angelus!
Furthermore, the beautiful custom of reciting the Marian Antiphon “The Angelus Domini” is attributed to Blessed Benedetto, meditating on the saving Mystery of the Incarnation of the Son of God in Mary’s virginal womb. The Angelus Domini became a pious practice firstly to the entire Franciscan Order, then to the whole Church, as it still is today.

Lovely Fr Benedetto!:

https://anastpaul.com/2023/03/03/saint-of-the-day-3-march-blessed-benedetto-sinigardi-da-arezzo-ofm-c1190-1282-the-author-of-the-angelus/

St Anselm of Nonantola
St Arthelais of Benevento
St Calupan
St Camilla
St Cele-Christ

St Cunegundes (c975-1040) Empress of the Holy Roman Empire, Nun, she took a vow of Virginity before her marriage, which, after a miracle was upheld by her husband, the King (also a Saint). Founder of Monasteries and Churches, Nun in one of her Convents, Apostle of Charity. Born in c 975 and died in 1040 of natural causes.
Biography:

https://anastpaul.com/2022/03/03/saint-of-the-day-3-march-st-cunegundes-c-975-1040/

St Foila
Bl Frederick of Hallum
St Gervinus

Blessed Innocento OFM Cap. (1844-1890) Priest and Friar of the Capuchin Franciscans in Berzo, Italy.
Sweet Innocento:

https://anastpaul.com/2024/03/03/saint-of-the-day-3-march-blessed-innocento-of-berzo-ofm-cap-1844-1890-priest/

Bl Jacobinus de’ Canepaci
St Lamalisse
St Non

Blessed Pietro de Geremia OP (1381-1452) Priest and Friar of the Order of Preaches, renowned and brilliant Preacher, Miracle-worker. In addition to his many miracles and conversions of sinners, he founded the University of Catania and assisted in the establishment of several Dominican Monasteries.
His Life:

https://anastpaul.com/2021/03/03/saint-of-the-day-3-march-blessed-pietro-de-geremia-op-1381-1452-dominican-priest/

Bl Pierre-René Rogue
St Sacer
St Titian (Died c540) Bishop and Confessor
St Winwallus of Landévennec

40 Martyrs in North Africa – A group of Christians Martyred together in North Africa, date unknown. No details have survived, but we know these names – Antonius, Artilaus, Asclipius, Astexius, Basil, Bosimus, Carissimus, Castus, Celedonius, Claudianus, Cyricus, Donata, Emeritus, Emeterius, Euticus, Felix, Fortunatus, Frunumius, Gajola, Georgius, Gorgonius, Hemeterus, Isicus, Janula, Julius, Luciola, Luciolus, Marcia, Marinus, Meterus, Nicephorus, Papias, Photius, Risinnius, Sabianus, Savinianus and Solus

Martyrs of Pontus – 3+ Saints – A large group of Christians Martyred together in the persecutions of Emperor Maximian Galerius and governor Ascleopiodato. We have some details on three of them – Basiliscus, Cleonicus and Eutropius. 308 in Pontus (in modern Turkey)
Martyrs of Caesarea;
Asterius
Marinus

Martyrs of Calahorra:
Cheledonius
Emeterius

Martyrs of Gondar, Ethiopia:
Bl Antonio Francesco Marzorati
Bl Johannes Laurentius Weiss
Bl Michele Pío Fasol

Posted in SAINT of the DAY

Saint of the Day – 2 March – Blessed Fulk of Neuilly (Died 1201) Priest

Saint of the Day – 2 March – Blessed Fulk of Neuilly (Died 1201) Priest of the Parish of Neuilly-sur-Marne, renowned Preacher which encouraged the 4th Crusade, Founder of a Monastery in Paris which encouraged fallen women to seek refuge and repentance in the religious life. Fulk died on 2 March 1201 of natural causes. Also known as – Folco, Foulques, Fulke, Foulque.

In 1191, Fulk was appointed as the Parish Priest of Neuilly-sur-Marne, after attended the lectures of Peter the Chantor (Died 1197) in Paris.

Beginning in 1195, Fulk began to preach gaining a reputation for piety and eloquence. His preaching focused on reforming the morals of the lay faithful and many of his denunciations were upon the sins of usury and lustfulness. But, even more than the laity, Fulk preached most particularly on reforming the morals and lives of the Clergy who, at that time living dissipated lives. Clerical concubinage was a common target of his sermons and he would often indicate and name Priests and concubines, who were guilty of this sin in the crowd, listening to him.

It was reported that he rebuked King Richard I of England by advising him to marry off his three evil daughters, being – his Pride, Greed and Lechery! The King replied that he would marry them appropriately to the Templars, the Cistercians and to the Bishops and Abbots of the Church!

In 1199, Fulk was invited to preach the 4th Crusade by Pope Innocent III. His preaching influenced both Simon de Montfort, 5th Earl of Leicester, the French Lord Alix de Montmorency, the wealthy noble woman and others.

Fulk’s assiduous enthusiasm in carrying out this mission led to much success and large donations flowed in. Inevitably, some murmured and denounced the manner in which these donations were used.

Fulk then went on to found the Abbey of Saint-Antoine-des-Champs in the Faubourg in Paris, charged with taking in women of ill repute. He soon died of his great fatigue in 1201. Blessed Fulk was interred in his own Parish Church where he had spent the majority of his life, at ther Church of Saint-Baudile in Neuilly-sur-Marne.

The bbey of Saint-Antoine-des-Champs
Posted in LENT, MARIAN TITLES, SAINT of the DAY

Quinquagesima Sunday, Nuestra Señora de las Apariciones / Our Lady of Apparitions, Madrid, Spain (1449) and the Saints for 2 March

Quinquagesima Sunday:
This Season is seventeen (17) days long and includes the three Sundays before Ash Wednesday.
The length of the Season never changes but the start date is dependent on the movable date of Easter, which can fall between 22 March-25 April.
For many early Christians Quinquagesima marked the time after which meat was forbidden. In many places, this Sunday and the next two days, were used to prepare for Lent by a good Confession; hence in England, we find the names Shrove Sunday and Shrovetide. Shrove is a form of the English word “shrive,” which means – to obtain absolution for one’s sins by way of Confession and doing penance..
As the days before Lent were frequently spent in merry-making, Pope Benedict XIV by the Constitution “Inter Cetera” (1 January 1748) introduced a Forty Hours’ Devotion to keep the faithful from dangerous amusements and to make some reparation for sins committed.
Quinquagesima also means, the time between Easter and Pentecost, or from the Saturday after Easter to the Sunday after Pentecost; it is then called Quinquagesima Paschae paschalis, or laetitae.

Nuestra Señora de las Apariciones / Our Lady of Apparitions, Madrid, Spain (1449) – 2 March:
HERE:

https://anastpaul.com/2021/03/02/our-lady-of-apparitions-madrid-spain-1449-and-memorials-of-the-saints-2-march/

St Absolon of Caesarea

St Agnes of Prague/Bohemia (1211-1282) Virgin, Nun, Princess, Foundress, Abbess, Missionary of Charity and Mercy – Patron of the Czech Republic and Prague.
Her Holy Life:

https://anastpaul.com/2017/03/02/saint-of-the-day-2-march-st-agnes-of-praguebohemia/

St Basileus the Martyr

St Chad (c620-672) Bishop of Lichfield, Confessor, Abbot, Monk, known as the “Apostle of Mercia,”in England.
About St Chad:

https://anastpaul.com/2021/03/02/saint-of-the-day-2-march-saint-chad-c-620-672-bishop/

Blessed Charles the Good (c1083-1127) Martyr, Duke, Apostle, protector and defender of the poor, selling his and his kingdom’s riches to help those in need, wherever he could, a fair and just Ruler who made laws to accommodate the poor rather than the rich (the eventual cause of his Martyrdom), Knight who assisted in Secomd Crusade.
Blessed Charles cultus was officially confirmed by his Beatification in 1883 by Pope Leo XIII.
His Life and Death:

https://anastpaul.com/2023/03/02/saint-of-the-day-2-march-blessed-charles-the-good-c1083-1127-martyr/

St Cynibild of Laestingaeu
St Felix of Treves
St Fergna the White
Blessed Fulk of Neuilly (Died 1201) Priest


St Girolamo Carmelo di Savoia
St Gistilian

St Joavan (Died c576) English Missionary, Bishop of Brittany, France.
The Life of St Jovan:
https://anastpaul.com/2024/03/02/saint-of-the-day-2-march-saint-joavan-of-brittany-died-c576-bishop/

St Jovinus the Martyr
St Lorgius of Caesarea
St Lucius of Caesarea

St Luke Casali of Nicosia (Died c800) Priest Abbot.
The Roman Martyrology reads: “In Agíra in Sicily, Saint Luke Casale of Nicosía, a Monk, full of humility and virtue.
St Luke’s Life:

https://anastpaul.com/2022/03/02/saint-of-the-day-2-march-saint-luke-casali-of-nicosia-died-c-800/

St Slebhene
St Troas

Martyrs of Campania – Approximately 400 northern Italian Christians Martyred for their faith by pagan Lombards. Their story was recorded by Pope Saint Gregory the Great, who reports that they people spent their final days supporting each other with prayer. c 579 in Camnpania, Italy.

Martyrs of Porto Romano – 4 Saints – Group of Christians Martyred in the persecution of Diocletian. The only other information that survives are the names of four of them – Heraclius, Januaria, Paul and Secondilla. c305 at Porto Romano at the mouth of the River Tiber, Rome.

Posted in Against SORE THROATS, COUGHS, WHOOPING COUGH,, SAINT of the DAY

Saint of the Day – 1 March – Saint Swidbert (Died 713) Bishop, The Apostle of Friesland,

Saint of the Day – 1 March – Saint Swidbert (Died 713) Bishop, Missionary, Founder and Abbot of Kaiserswerth Monastery. Born in Northumbria, England and died on 1 March 713 in today’s Kaiserswerth near Düsseldorf in North Rhine-Westphalia. Patronages – of Germany, against sore throats, of Drevenack, Germany, of Friesland, Netherland, of Ripon, England. Also known as – … the Elder, Suitbert, Suidbert, Suitbertus, Swithbert, Apostle of Friesland, Apostle of the Bructeri. The Name from old High German means: “the strong shining one.

The Roman Martyrology reads today: “At Kaiserswerth, the Bishop, St Swidbert, who, in the time of Pope Sergius, preached the Gospel to the inhabitants of Friesland, Holland and to other Germanic peoples.

The tale of Swidbert’s birth which arose around 1500, tells how a star, sending out two rays, fell on his mother’s bed before his birth. Bishop St Aidan of Lindisfarne, interpreted her dream – the boy who was born would be called to work in two countries – Gaul and Germania.
Some traditions call Swidbert the son of Count Sigebert of Nottingham but he was most likely a Monk in the Monastery in Ripon under St Wilfrid of York. When St Wilfrid travelled to Rome in 678, Swidbert accompanied him and remained behind in Friesland on their return journey, as a missionary.

Another tradition reports that Swidbert left Ripon in 678 after Wilfrid’s departure and went to St Egbert in Rathmelsighe – today’s Mellifont – from wher, in 690, he was sent to southern Friesland together with twelve companions – including St Willibrord – as a Missionaries. In 692/693 his companions elected him as the Bishop, whereafter Swidbert returned to his homeland and was Ordained as a Missionary Bishop by St Wilfrid of York.

After another stay in Friesland, however, he then turned – as our wonderful Church Historian, the Venerable St Bede tells us – to missionary work in the area settled by the Bructeri on the Ruhr and Lippe. Swidbert’s work was unsuccessful – also because the invading Saxons destroyed his facilities. He now moved his activities to Frankish territory and in 695 founded the Benedictine Monastery of Swidbertswerth which was later named after him and later still, called Kaiserswerth and which, he headed as Abbot, on the Rhine island which had been given to him by the Mayor of the Merovingians, Pippin the Middle and his wife, Plektrudis

After his death, Swidbert was soon venerated as a Saint. In 877, the Church of his Monastery was dedicated, not only to Peter, as it had been from the beginning ,ut also to Swidbert. In 904, Swidbert was named as its sole Patron. His bones lie in a precious Shrine made between 1193 and 1332, in the collegiate Church in Kaiserswerth, where they were transferred in 1264, together with those of Abbot Wileich . Other Relics are kept in the Church of Peter and Paul in Duisburg-Süd.

The precious Shrine in the Church in Kaiserswerth,

Swidbert’s Benedictine Monastery was apparently destroyed during the Saxon invasions at the end of the 8th Century, but was soon rebuilt. In the 12th Century, the Rhine Island previously named after Swidbert, was given its new name Kaiserswerth because of the importance of the imperial palace built in 1045. After secularisation, the Church became a Parish Church.

The Rear gable wall of the Swidbertus Shrine with Swidbert (centre), Plektrudis (Pippin’s wife)(left) and Pippin the Middle (right), 1264, in the Collegiate Church in Kaiserswerth
Posted in MARIAN TITLES, SAINT of the DAY

First Saturday, March Devotion – The Month of St Joseph, Madonna Della Croce, “Holy Mary of the Cross,” Italy (1490, St David of Wales and the Saints for 1 March

March Devotion – The Month of St Joseph

The First Saturday of March

Madonna Della Croce, “Holy Mary of the Cross,” Crema, Italy (1490) – 1 March:
HERE:

https://anastpaul.com/2021/03/01/our-lady-della-croce-holy-mary-of-the-cross-crema-italy-1490/

St David of Wales (c542-c601) Bishop, Prince, Monk, Confessor, Missionary, Founder of Monasteries. Uncle of King Arthur. David studied under Saint Paul Aurelian. Worked with Saint Columbanus, Saint Gildas the Wise and Saint Finnigan. He was officially Canonised in 1120 by Pope Callistus II.
Beloved St David
:
https://anastpaul.com/2017/03/01/saint-of-the-day-1-march-st-david-of-wales/

St Abdalong of Marseilles
St Adrian of Numidia
St Agapios of Vatopedi
St Agnes Cao Guiying

St Albinus of Angers (469-549) Bishop, Confessor, Monk, Abbot, miracle-worker.
His Life

https://anastpaul.com/2021/03/01/saint-of-the-day-1-march-saint-albinus-of-angers-469-549-bishop/

St Albinus of Vercelli
St Amandus of Boixe
St Antonina of Bithynia
Bl Aurelia of Wirberg
Bl Bonavita of Lugo
St Bono of Cagliari
Bl Christopher of Milan
Bl Claudius Gabriel Faber
St Domnina of Syria
St Domnina of Syria
St Donatus of Carthage
St Eudocia of Heliopolis
Bl George Biandrate
Bl Giovanna Maria Bonomo
Bl Gonzalo de Ubeda
St Hermes of Numidia
St Jared the Patriarch
St Leo of Rouen

St Leolucas of Corleone OBas (c815-c915) Abbot of the Basilian Order, Mystic, Ascetic, Miracle-worker. He lived as a Monk for more than 80 years.
The Roman Martyrology reads: “In the Monastery of Avena between the slopes of Mount Mercurio in Calabria, St Leone Luca, Abbot of Monte Mula, who shone in the hermitic life, as in the cenobitic life, following the rules of the oriental Monks.
His Biography:

https://anastpaul.com/2023/03/01/saint-of-the-day-1-march-saint-leolucas-of-corleone-obas-c815-c915-abbot/

St Lupercus
St Marnock
St Monan
Bl Pietro Ernandez
Bl Roger Lefort
St Rudesind
St Simplicius of Bourges
St Siviard
St Swidbert (Died 713) Bishop
St Venerius of Eichstätt

Martyrs of Africa – A group of 13 Christians executed together for their faith in Africa. The only details about them to survive are ten names – Abundantius, Adrastus, Agapius, Charisius, Donatilla, Donatus, Fortunus, Leo, Nicephorus and Polocronius. c290

Martyrs of Antwerp – A group of 14 Christians Martyred together, buried together and whose Relics were transferred and enshrined together. We know nothing else but their names – Benignus, Donatus, Felician, Fidelis, Filemon, Herculanus, Julius, Justus, Maximus, Pelagius, Pius, Primus, Procopius and Silvius. Died in the 2nd Century in Rome. They are buried in the St Callixtus Catacombs and their Relics were enshrined in the Jesuit Church in Antwerp on 28 February 1600.

Martyrs of the Salarian Way – A group of 260 Christians who, for their faith, were condemned to road work on the Salarian Way in Rome, Italy during the persecutions of Claudius II. When they were no longer needed for work, they were publicly murdered in the amphitheatre. Martyrs. c269 in Rome.

Martyrs Under Alexander – A large but unspecified number of Christians Martyred in the persecutions of Emperor Alexander Severus and the praefect Ulpian who saw any non-state religion to be a dangerous treason. c 19.

Posted in SAINT of the DAY

Saint of the Day – 28 February – Saint Ruellinus (6th Century) Bishop

Saint of the Day – 28 February – Saint Ruellinus (6th Century) the 2nd Bishop of Treguier, Brittany, France, now in today’s Diocese of Quimper and Leon, Monk and Priest. Probably born in Wales and died in his See. Also known as – Rivelin, Ruelin, Ruellin.

In the 6th Century, the Breton Monk Ruellinus, a disciple of Saint Tugdual, who had established a hermitage on an island off the coast of North Wales, before crossing the sea to Brittany with our Saint and other companions. He became the 1st Bishop of Tréguier.

When Tugdual was dying around the year 564, the Priests asked him to select a successor and he indicated Ruellinus to succeed his spiritual master as the Bishop of this See. It is believed he filled this Office from 564 to 598.

His election was contested by St Pergat, a Canon and the Archpriest of Lexobie but was confirmed by a Synod at Lexobie, where the most able and educated Ecclesiastics of the Diocese were summoned. Ruellinus appeared miraculously to the entire assembly thus ratifying their decision and causing St Pergat to retire from the fray in deep mortification, spending the remainder of his life in penance for his pride.

Ruellinus is mentioned in the 17th Century volume “Vie des saints de la Bretagne Armorique” and in the 19th Century text by M de Garaby, on the Saints of Brittany.

St Ruellinus is commemorated and celebrated in the proper of the Diocese of Quimper and Leon today, 28 February.

Posted in SAINT of the DAY

All the Saints for 28 February and some for 29 February in a Leap Year

St Abercius

Blessed Antonia of Florence OSC (1400-1472) Widow, Abbess (Feast Day 29 February in a Leap Year)

St Caerealis
St Caerealis of Alexandria
St Cyra of Beroea
St Ermine
St Gaius of Alexandria

St Pope Hilary/Hilarius (Died 468) Pope from 461-468, Papal aide to St Pope Leo the Great, Papal Legate, Reformer of Episcopal discipline, builder of Churches, libraries, Chapels and public works. (Feast Day 29 February in a Leap Year)
His Life:

https://anastpaul.com/2021/02/28/saint-of-the-day-28-february-saint-pope-hilary-died-468/

St Justus the Potter
St Llibio
St Macarius the Potter
St Maidoc
St Marana of Beroea

St Oswald of Worcester (Died 992) Archbishop of York from 972-992, as well as simultaneously being the Bishop of Worcester and a leading figure in the reform of the Anglo-Saxon Church which took place in the second half of the tenth Century. He died on 29 February in 992 of natural causes, a leap year, therefore, his Feast is celebrated on the 28th. (Feast Day 29 February in a Leap Year)
St Oswald’s Life:

https://anastpaul.com/2023/02/28/saint-of-the-day-28-february-saint-oswald-of-worcester-c912-992-bishop/

St Proterius of Alexandria
St Pupulus of Alexandria

St Romanus of Condat (c390–c 463) Abbot, Hermit.
His Life:

https://anastpaul.com/2022/02/28/saint-of-the-day-28-february-saint-romanus-of-condat-c-390-c-463/

St Ruellinus (6th Century) Bishop ofof Treguier
St Rufinus the Potter
St Serapion of Alexandria
St Sillan of Bangor
St Theophilus the Potter

Blessed Villana de’Botti OP (1332-1361) Widow, Mother, Penitent, Mystic, Lay Religious of the Order of Preachers. She was gifted with visions of Our Lady and of the Saints and was granted the gift of prophecy.
Her Grace-filled Life:

https://anastpaul.com/2024/02/28/saint-of-the-day-28-february-blessed-villana-debotti-op-1332-1361-widow/

Martyrs of Alexandria – A number of clerics and layman who died as Martyrs of charity for ministering to the sick during a plague that ravaged Alexandria, Egypt in 261.

Martyrs of Antwerp – 14 Christians who were Martyred together. We know nothing about them but the names Alexander, Anicetus, Cyriacus, Eulalia, Faustus, Genesius, Hirena, Macarius, Mauritius, Modestus, Placidus, Rochus, Symforian and Victorinus. Died in Rome, Italy, date unknown. Their Relics were transferred and enshrined in Antwerp, Belgium.

Martyrs of Corinth – A group of Christians Martyred together in Corinth, Greece. The only information we have about them are the names Basilia, Betha, Caius, Claudius, Diodorus, Donatus, Enuclus, Felix, Hermes, Januaria, Januarius, Maccaris, Maninlia, Mansuetus, Nicophorus, Papias, Quinquianus, Rufunia, Serapion, Servilia, Silvana, Stercola, Tella, Veneria, Victor and Victorinus.

Posted in SAINT of the DAY

Saint of the Day – 27 February – Saint John (c900-976) Abbot of Gorze

Saint of the Day – 27 February – Saint John (c900-976) Abbot of Gorze Monastery, Penitent, Reformer, Diplomat, Apostle of the needy and sick. Born in c900 at Vandières, Meurthe-et-Moselle, near Metz, France and died on 7 March 976 of natural causes at his Monastery in Gorse. John possessed the gift of a a photographic memory and also developed a bookkeeping system and capital investment policies. The murmur of his lips, while reading the Psalms, resembled the buzzing of a bee.Also known as – Jean de Gorze, John of Lorraine. Additional Memorial – 23 May in the Diocese if Metz together with all the Saints of that See.

St John with the White hair and beard before the Caliph

John of Gorze, born in Lorraine to wealthy farmers completed his early studies in Metz and Saint-Mihiel. Upon the death of his father, he was forced to take charge of the administration of the family property. When his brothers were able to take on this task, he was appointed Curate of a Church by a neighbouring lord.

In this Office, John came into contact with the female Monastery of Saint Peter of Metz, where he was struck by the devotion of a young Nun wearing a garm;ent made of animal skin. From that moment, he decided to devote himself to penance and study and, with some companions he founded a group of regular Monks.

In 933, John received, from the Bishop of Metz, the Abbey of Gorze which had been abandoned. The Archdeacon of Toul, Einold, became Abbot of the restored Monastery, while John served as Cellarer. John managed to restore the material prosperity of the Abbey, dedicating himself to a severe life, while treating the weak and the sick with gentleness.

In 953, Emperor Otto I sent John on a mission to the Caliph of Cordoba, Abderrahman III. The mission lasted three years and was a diplomatic success.

St John and other Frankish diplomats before Caliph Abd-ar-Rahman III, by Dionisio Baixeras Verdaguer (1885)

Upon the death of Abbot Einold in 967, John became the Abbot of Gorze. He continued his life of austerity and died on 7 March 976, at the beginning of Lent (more precisely on Quinquagesima Sunday). John’s death occurred in 976 and not in 974, as was believed, because he is still mentioned on 2 June and 22 June in 975 (his successor, Odelbert, is mentioned only in 977).

John received the title of Blessed and then of Saint. He is registered in the Benedictine Martyrologies on 27 February. The Life of our St John was written by his friend John of St Arnulf of Metz and, is a work which, even if unfinished, has a certain historical value. St John’s death is described in the prologue.

Posted in SAINT of the DAY

Saint of the Day – 26 February – St Faustinian (4th Century) the 2nd Bishop of Bologna

Saint of the Day – 26 February – St Faustinian (4th Century) the 2nd Bishop of Bologna, Italy. Also known as – Faustinianus, Faustinus, Faustiniano. Additional Memorial – 28 September as one of the Saintly Bishops of Bologna, Italy.

The Roman Martyrology reads today: “At Bologna, the Bishop St Faustinian, whose preaching strengthened and multiplied the faithful of that Church which had been much afflicted during the persecutions of Diocletian.

Faustinian, according to the oldest list of Bishops of the Archdiocese of Bologna, that is the so-called “Rhine List” prior to the 14th Century, is placed in second place; this information is also supported by an inscription in Gothic characters, prior to 1494, where we read that St Zama was the 1st Bishop and St Faustinian the 2nd.

According to some scholars, he should be identified with the ‘Faustinus’ Bishop, cited by St Athanasius the Bishop of Alexandria, in his “Apologia contra Arianos”, in a list of Italian bishops participating in the Council of Sardica (ancient name of Sofia in Bulgaria), in 343.

If all this establishes that St Faustinian was in office in 343, it makes the ancient Bolognese tradition implausible which says that during the persecution of Diocletian, who died in 313, St. Faustiniano spread the faith in Bologna; the dates do not correspond, also because the Episcopal Seat of Bologna does not seem to have arisen before the 4th Century.

The cult of the holy Bishop began only after the 12th Century. In 1586, thanks to Cardinal Gabriele Paleotti, St Faustinian’s Relics were transferred to the Cathedral, thus establishing a continuous veneration of our Saint, who is celebrated twice a year in Bologna.

Posted in MARIAN TITLES, SAINT of the DAY

Notre-Dame des Champs / Our Lady of the Fields, Paris (250), St Margaret of Cortona and the Saints for 26 February

Notre-Dame des Champs / Our Lady of the Fields, Paris, France, consecrated by St Denis (250) – 26 February:
HERE:

https://anastpaul.com/2021/02/26/our-lady-of-the-fields-paris-france-consecrated-by-st-denis-250-and-memorials-of-the-saints-26-february/

St Margaret of Cortona TOSF (1247–1297) Penitent, Franciscan Tertiary, Mystic, Apostle of Charity, Founder of a charitable Lay Apostolate and an Order of Sisters known as “Le Poverelle” – Italian for “The Little Poor Ones.”
“Le Poverelle” :

https://anastpaul.com/2019/02/22/saint-of-the-day-22-february-st-margaret-of-cortona-tosf-1247-1297/

Bl Adalbert of Tegernsee
St Agricola of Nevers

St Alexander of Alexandria (Died c326) Bishop of Alexandria, Confessor, Defender of the True Faith against heresies, in particular the Arians.
The Roman Martyrology states of him today: “At Alexandria, the Bishop St Alexander, an aged man held in great honour who was a successor of the blessed Peter as Bishop of the City. He expelled from the Church, Arius, one of his Priests, tainted with heretical impiety and convicted by Divine Truth and, subsequently, was one of the three hundred and eighteen Fathers, who condemned him at the Council of Nicea.
Holy Father St Alexander:

https://anastpaul.com/2022/02/26/saint-of-the-day-26-february-st-alexander-of-alexandria-died-c-326/

St Andrew of Florence
St Dionysius of Augsburg
St Faustinian (4th Century) Bishop of Bologna
St Felix
St Fortunatus
St Irene
Bl Ottokar of Tegernsee

St Porphyrius of Gaza (Died 420) Bishop of Gaza from 395 to 420, known, from the account in his Life, for Christianising the recalcitrant pagan City of Gaza in Palestine and demolishing its pagan temples. Previously he had been a Hermit.
His Life:

https://anastpaul.com/2023/02/26/saint-of-the-day-26-february-saint-porphyrius-of-gaza-died-420-bishop/

Blessed Ulrik O.Praem. (Died1187) Priest, Priest, Prior of the Monastery of Obermarchtal
Blessed Ulrik’s Life:

https://anastpaul.com/2024/02/26/saint-of-the-day-26-february-blessed-ulrik-of-obermarchtal-o-praem-died-1187-priest/

St Victor the Hermit (Died 6th Century) Priest, Monk, Hermit, miracle-worker.
About St Victor:

https://anastpaul.com/2021/02/26/saint-of-the-day-26-february-saint-victor-the-hermit-died-6th-century-priest/

Posted in SAINT of the DAY

Saint of the Day – 25 February – Saint Tharasius (c730-806) Bishop

Saint of the Day – 25 February – Saint Tharasius (c730-806) Bishop of Constantinople from 25 December 784 until his death on 25 February 806, Defender of Sacred images and of the sanctity of marriage against the imperial powers. Born in c730 in Constantinople and died there in 806. Also known as – Tarasius, Tarasius of Constantinople.

The Roman Martyrology reads today: “At Constantinople, St Tharasius, the Bishop, a man of great erudition and piety, to whom is addressed an epistle of Pope Adrian I, in defence of holy images.

Tharasius was was born and raised in the City of Constantinople. A son of a high-ranking Judge, Tharasius was related to important families, including that of St Photios. Tharasius was surrounded by earthly wealth and possessions, but lived a most austere and holy life. His virtue gained the esteem of the empire and he was made Bishop of Constantinople.

When, being elected as the Bishop of Constantinople, he consented to accept the dignity offered to him, only on condition that a General Council should be summoned, in particular to resolve the disputes concerning the veneration of Sacred images. Constantinople had been separated from the Holy See on account of the war between the Emperors. In 786, the Council was held in the Church of the Holy Apostles, in Constantinople. It met again the following year in Nice and its decrees were approved by the Pope.

The Emperor of the time, Constantine VI, became enamoured of Theodotah, a his wife’s maid and sought to divorce his wife and marry her maid. Wishing to convince Tharasius to marry him to Theodota, the Emperor sent a message to the holy man. Tharasius adamantly refused, replying to the Emperor’s Ambassador, “I would rather suffer death and all manner of torments, than consent to his design.” He continued to reject the Emperor’s requests resulting in great enmity and adversity.

Tharasius’ whole life in the Episcopacy was one of penance and prayer and of hard labour to reform his clergy and people. He occupied the See of Constantinople for 21 years and 2 months. His charity toward the poor was one of the characteristic virtues of his life. He visited in person, all the houses and hospitals in Constantinople, so that no indigent person might be overlooked in the distribution of alms.

Just before his death, Tharasius fell into a trance. As his biographer, who was an eyewitness, relates, he was heard arguing with a number of unseen accusers. Tharasius defended himself against the accusers and answered everything laid to his charge. Later, a great peacefulness came over him and Tharasius gave up his soul to God in 806.

Posted in CARMELITES, franciscan OFM, MARIAN TITLES, SAINT of the DAY

Notre-Dame-de-Grande-Puissance / Our Lady of Great Power, Quebec (1673), St Walburga, Blessed Sebastian of Aparicio and the Saints for 25 February

Notre-Dame-de-Grande-Puissance / Our Lady of Great Power, Quebec, Canada, (1673) – 25 February:
HERE:

https://anastpaul.com/2021/02/25/our-lady-of-great-power-quebec-canada-1673-and-memorials-of-the-saints-25-february/

St Walburga (c710-779) Virgin, Nun and Missionary. Daughter of St Richard the King. Sister of St Willibald and St Winebald, niece of St Boniface.
The Life of St Walburga – image below with her noble and Saintly family:
https://anastpaul.com/2017/02/25/saint-of-the-day-25-february-st-walburga/

Blessed Sebastian of Aparicio OFM (1502-1600) “The Angel of Mexico,” Franciscan Lay Brother, Confessor, Ascetic, apostle of the poor, builder of roads and bridges in Mexico and thus is honoured as the founder of the transport and road system in Mexico.
About the Amazing Blessed Sebastian:

https://anastpaul.com/2021/02/25/saint-of-the-day-25-february-blessed-sebastian-of-aparicio-ofm-1502-1600-the-angel-of-mexico/

St Adelelmo of Engelberg
St Aldetrudis
St Ananias of Phoenicia

Blessed Avertano of Lucca O.Carm ( 1320-1380 ) Lay Brother of the Order of Carmel, Miracle-worker, Avertano had a great devotion to the Passion of Christ.
Biography:

https://anastpaul.com/2022/02/25/saint-of-the-day-25-february-blessed-avertano-of-lucca-o-carm-1320-c-1366/

St Caesarius of Nazianzen (c329-369) 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. Patronages – of Physicians and bachelors.
His Holy Life:

https://anastpaul.com/2024/02/25/131658/

St Donatus the Martyr
St Felix III, Pope
St Gerland the Bishop
St Gothard the Hermit
St Herena the Martyr
St Justus the Martyr

St Nestor of Side
St Riginos

Blessed Robert of Arbrissel (c1045 – 1116) Priest, Itinerant Missionary Preacher, Founder of the renowned dual Monastery of Fontevraud-l’Abbaye in Pays-de-la-Loire, France, Teacher, both a Reformer, as well as possessing the opposite virtue of being a Peacemaker. A quite astonishing man!
https://anastpaul.com/2023/02/25/saint-of-the-day-25-february-blessed-robert-of-arbrissel-c1045-1116-priest-missionary-preacher-founder/

St Tharasius (c730-806) Bishop
St Victor of Saint Gall

Martyrs of Egypt – A group oSeven f Christian men who were exiled to Egypt for their faith and were eventually Martyred for their faith in the persecutions of Numerian. We know little more than their names: Claudianus, Dioscurus, Nicephorus, Papias, Serapion, Victor, Victorinus.

Posted in SAINT of the DAY

Saint of the Day – 24 February – Saint Modestus (Died c486) Bishop and Confessor

Saint of the Day – 24 February – Saint Modestus (Died c486) Bishop and Confessor. Modestus was the 19th Bishop of Trier. In the official records of Bishops, he succeeds Saint Miletus and precedes Maximian. Died in c486 in Trier of natural causes. Tradition remembers him as a tireless Preacher in the streets of the City. He was a man assiduous in prayer who systematically practiced fasting. Modestus fought against the discouragement and poverty of all his people. He was also tireless in the fight against the indiscipline of the Clergy and in the fight against all forms of corruption. Also known as – Modest, Modeste, Modesto.

The Roman Martyrology reads today: “At Treves, Sy Modestus, Bishop and Confessor.”

Statue of Saint Modestus, Bishop of Trier, in Notre-Dame-de-Bonsecours Church, L’Islet, Québec

Of his birth, youth and education nothing is known. That which we ​​do know is but a few details of his Episcopate which are derived from brief mentions in various martyrologies from Germany and the Netherlands. From these sources, the information was later inserted into the Roman Martyrology.

As the Bishop, Modestus governed the Diocese of Trier in the last quarter of the 5th Century, that is, in the difficult times of the Frankish incursions and the devastation of the City and the Diocese.

Modestus died, according to the Florarium Sanctorum manuscript, in 489. Today, after historical investigations, 486 is considered rather the year of his death. He was buried in the church of Saint Eucharist which, since the 12th Century has borne the name of Saint Matthias, Apostle, whose Feastday we appropriately celebrate today too. St Matthias Tomb is enshrined here as are those of Sts Eucharius and Valerius and our St Modestus, although I can find no images of the latter.

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

St Matthias the Apostle, Plague in Rome ends after Saint Pope Gregory the Great leads a procession with a painting of Our Lady by Saint Luke (591) and the Saints for 24 February

St Matthias the Apostle, Martyr. After Christ’s Ascension, Matthias was chosen Apostle in place of the traitor Judas, as is detailed in the Epistle of this day and, after the descent of the Holy Ghost, announced the Gospel, first to his own people, the Jews and then, in Cappadocia and the neighbourhood of the Caspian Sea.
St Matthias!

This Feast was moved to 1969 to 14 May.
https://anastpaul.wordpress.com/2018/05/14/saint-of-the-day-feast-of-st-matthias-apostle/
AND:
https://anastpaul.com/2022/02/24/saint-of-the-day-24-february-st-matthias-apostle-of-christ-martyr/

Plague in Rome ends after Saint Pope Gregory the Great leads a procession with a painting of Our Lady by Saint Luke (591): – 24 February
HERE:

https://anastpaul.com/2021/02/24/plague-in-rome-ends-after-saint-pope-gregory-the-great-leads-a-procession-with-a-painting-of-our-lady-by-saint-luke-591-and-memorials-of-the-saints-24-february/

St Adela of Blois (c1067-1137) Widow, Mother, Countess of Blois, France, Princess. She contributed greatly to the religious, economic and cultural well-being of her lands and was generous in endowing Monasteries and Churches.
A Holy Lady of Many Gifts:

https://anastpaul.com/2024/02/24/saint-of-the-day-24-february-saint-adela-of-blois-c1067-1137-widow/

Bl Antonio Taglia
Bl Arnold of Carcassonne
St Betto of Auxerre
Bl Berta of Busano

Blessed Constantius of Fabriano OP (1401-1481) Priest and Friar of the Order of Preachers, Prior, Reformer, Preacher of renown, Writer, known as a Miracle-Worker and had the gift of prophecy, peacemaker. He was Beatified in 1821 by Pope Pius VII (cultus confirmed).
Rivetting Constantius
:
https://anastpaul.com/2019/02/24/saint-of-the-day-24-february-blessed-constantius-of-fabriano-op-1401-1481/

St Cummian Albus of Iona

St Ethelbert of Kent (552-616) King and Confessor.
Holy St Ethelbert:

https://anastpaul.com/2021/02/24/saint-of-the-day-24-february-saint-ethelbert-of-kent-552-616-king/

St Evetius of Nicomedia
Bl Ida of Hohenfels
St Liudhard
Bl Lotario Arnari

Blessed Marco De’ Marconi OSH (1480-1510) Monk of the Order of the Hermits of Saint Jerome (The Hieronymites). Marco was gifted with the charism of prophecy and of miracles.
His Life:

https://anastpaul.com/2023/02/24/saint-of-the-day-24-february-blessed-marco-de-marconi-osh-1480-1510-the-glory-of-mantua/

St Modestus (Died c486) Bishop and Confessor
St Peter the Librarian
St Praetextatus of Rouen
St Primitiva
St Sergius of Caesarea
Bl Simon of Saint Bertin

Posted in CHRIST the LIGHT, DOCTORS of the Church, GOD ALONE!, I BELIEVE!, MARIAN QUOTES, OUR Cross, PRACTISING CATHOLIC, QUOTES for CHRIST, QUOTES on FAITH, QUOTES on STRENGTH, QUOTES on The SOUL, SAINT of the DAY, The APOSTLES & EVANGELISTS, The FAITHFUL on PILGRIMAGE, The HEART, The HOLY GHOST

Quote/s of the Day – 23 February – St Peter Damian

Quote/s of the Day – 23 February – St Peter Damian (1007-1072) Cardinal Bishop, Confessor, Father and Doctor of the Church

Let us detach ourselves in spirit
from all that we see
and cling to that which we believe.
This is the Cross
which we must imprint
on all our daily actions and behaviour.

He pours light into our minds,
arouses our desire
and gives us strength…
As the soul is the life of the body,
so the Holy Ghost is the life of our souls.

“May Christ be heard in our language,
may Christ be seen in our life,
may He be perceived in our hearts

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

And when day broke,
He summoned His disciples
and from these He chose twelve –
whom He also named Apostles.

Luke 6:13

Bartholomew, whose Feast Day is today,
means in Aramaic,
nothing less than:
‘son of a water-bearer.‘
He is Son of the God,
Who raises the minds of His preachers,
to the contemplation of Truths from on high,
in such a way, that they can spread the rain of God’s Word
in our hearts, efficaciously and abundantly .
This is how they drink water at its source,
so that they can cause us to drink in our turn.

(Sermon 42 the second for Saint Bartholomew).

MORE:
https://anastpaul.com/2024/02/23/quote-s-of-the-day-23-february-st-peter-damian-3/

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

Posted in DOCTORS of the Church, LENT, MARIAN TITLES, SAINT of the DAY

Sexagesima Sunday, Nuestra Señora de la Peña / Our Lady of the Rock (1434), St Peter Damian and the Saints for 23 February

SEXAGESIMA SUNDAY: (Latin – Sexagesima, sixieth) The name means “sixtieth” as it falls within the 50-60 day ranges before Easter and the second before Lent. The Ordo Romanus, St Alcuin and others, count the Sexagesima from this day to Wednesday after Easter. The name was already known to the Fourth Council of Orléans in 541. To the Latins it is also known as “Exsurge” from the beginning of the Introit. The Station was at Saint Paul’s Outside the Walls of Rome and hence, the oratio calls upon the Doctor of the Gentiles. The Epistle is from Paul, 2 Corinthians 11 and 12, describing his suffering and labours for the Church. The Gospel (Luke 8) relates the falling of the seed on good and on bad ground, while the Lessons of the first Nocturn continue the history of man’s iniquity and speak of Noah and of the Deluge.

St Peter Damian OSB (1007-1072) Cardinal Bishop of Ostia, Benedictine Monk, Confessor, Theologian, Reformer, Writer, Teacher, Preacher, Poet, Papal Envoy, Father and Doctor of the Church. Dante placed him in one of the highest circles of Paradiso as a great predecessor of Saint Francis of Assisi. Peter was acclaimed as “one of the most accomplished Latinists of his time, one of the greatest writers of medieval Latin.
The wonderful St Peter here:
https://anastpaul.wordpress.com/2017/02/21/saint-of-the-day-21-february-st-peter-damian/
AND:
https://anastpaul.com/2019/02/21/saint-of-the-day-21-february-st-peter-damian-osb-1007-1072-doctor-of-the-church/

Nuestra Señora de la Peña / Our Lady of the Rock, Pena de Francia, near Salamanca, Spain (1434) – 23 February:
HERE:

https://anastpaul.com/2021/02/23/our-lady-of-the-rock-pena-de-francia-near-salamanca-spain-1434-and-memorials-of-the-saints-23-february/

St Alexander Akimetes
St Boswell
St Dositheus of Egypt
St Felix of Brescia
St Florentius of Seville
St Giovanni Theristi (1049–1129) Monk
Bl John of Hungary

St Lazarus Zographos (c810-c 867) Priest, Monk known as “the Painter and the Iconographer.” Lazarus lived before and during the second period of Byzantine Iconoclasm.
The Roman Martyrology states of him today: “St Lazarus, a Monk, whom the Iconoclast Emperor Theophilus ordered to be put to torture for having painted holy images. His hand was burned with a hot iron but, being healed by the power of God, he painted anew the holy images which had been defaced and finally rested in peace.”
The Painter Saint:

https://anastpaul.com/2022/02/23/saint-of-the-day-23-february-st-lazarus-zographos-810-865/

St Martha of Astorga
St Medrald

St Milburga (Died 715) Virgin, Prioress, Abbess, Miracle-worker.
Biography:

https://anastpaul.com/2023/02/23/saint-of-the-day-23-february-saint-milburga-died-715-abbess/

St Milo (Died c1077) Bishop of Benevento, Teacher, Spiritual Guide and most zealous Shepherd of his flock and a loving father to the poor, the sick and the nedy. B
Loving Father St Milo, Pray for Us!:

https://anastpaul.com/2024/02/23/saint-of-the-day-23-february-saint-milo-of-benevento-died-c1077-bishop/

St Ordonius
St Polycarp of Rome
St Romana (Died c324) Virgin

St Serenus the Gardener (Died 307) Martyr. Serenus was by birth a Grecian. He left his family estate, friends and country to serve God in celibacy, penance and prayer. With this design he bought a garden in Sirmium in Pannonia, which he cultivated with his own hands and lived on the fruits and herbs it produced.
His Life and Death:

https://anastpaul.com/2019/02/23/saint-of-the-day-23-february-st-serenus-the-gardener-died-307-martyr/

St Willigis of Mainz (c940-1011) Archbishop of Mainz, Reformer, builder of the Cathedral of Mainz and many Churches, bridges and roads throughout his Diocese, de facto Regent of Germany during the minority of Otto III, to whom he was Guardian.
About St Willigis:

https://anastpaul.com/2021/02/23/saint-of-the-day-23-february-saint-willigis-of-mainz-c-940-1011-archbishop/

St Zebinus of Syria

Martyrs of Syrmium – 73 Christians who were Martyred together in the persecutions of Diocletian. We know no details about them, and only six of their names – Antigonus, Libius, Rogatianus, Rutilus, Senerotas and Syncrotas.

Posted in SAINT of the DAY, The APOSTLES & EVANGELISTS

Saint of the Day – 22 February – St Abilius (Died c98) the 2nd Bishop of Alexandria

Saint of the Day – 22 February – St Abilius (Died c98) the 2nd Bishop of Alexandria, Egypt. He was the 2nd Bishop of Alexandria. He was Ordained by Saint Mark the Evangelist and was also the first convert Mark won to Christianity in the region. Also known as – Abilio, Abitius, Abylius, Avilio, Avilius, Anamia, Melyos, Mielo, Milius, Sabellius’

The Roman Martyrology reads today: “At Alexandria, St Abilius, Bishop, who was the 2nd shepherd of the City after St Mark and administered his charge with eminent piety.

Relief of St Mark and St Abilius by Pietro Lombardo, 1478

As St Mark was entering Rakotis, a suburb of Alexandria, after his travels from Cyrene, the strap of his sandal detached itself. He found a cobbler, Abilius, to repair it. While he was working on the sandal, the awl slipped in Abilius’ hand, piercing it. Anianus cried out “God is One – Heis ho Theos” in response to the pain. Mark took the opportunity to preach the Gospel to him, at the same time miraculously healing Abilius’ hand of its wound.

Mark was invited to Agilius’ house, where he taught him and his family the Gospel and, thereafter, Baptised them all. A large number of natives of the area were quickly converted by Mark too causing those pagans, who did not convert, to defend their local gods against the new Faith.

Mark, the outsider, decided it might be best if he were to leave the area for a while. He Ordained Abilius and Consecrated him as the Bishop in his absence. He also Ordained three Priests and seven Deacons, charging them with the care of the Church in his absence.

Mark was gone for a period of two years, during which time tradition believes that he attended St Peter in Rome. Abiliuss and his Priests, the meantime, spread the Gospel in the region, performing miracles and winning many to Christ. On Mark’s return, he found the Church in Alexandria had grown significantly and they were able to build a Church at Bucolia on the shore of the Alexandrian eastern harbour.

St Abilius repairing St Mark’s sandal by Cima da Conegliano

Following St Mark’s Martyrdom Abilius took his place in the Church in Alexandria. He would remain in that capacity for over seventeen years. During that time, the number of Christians in the area grew significantly and Abilius Ordained new Priests and Deacons for the growing Church. The extent of the evangelisation they performed is unknown, although it has been thought by some that it was done at least somewhat covertly, given the hostility the pagan population demonstrated to the new Faith.

Abilius died in bed and was buried next to St Mark at the Church in Baucalis. Later, as we know, St Mark’s Relics were translated to Venice.

Posted in MARIAN TITLES, SAINT of the DAY, St PETER!

The Chair of Saint Peter at Antioch, Vigil of St Matthias, Apostle, Notre-Dame de Rennes / Our Lady of Miracles and Virtues, Rennes, France (1357) and the Saints for 22 February

The Chair of Saint Peter at Antioch – where the disciples were first entitled “Christians.” The Chair/Throne or Cathedra itself is a Relic conserved in St Peter’s Basilica although it seems not to be the original Chair. This Antioch is where the disciples were first called CHRISTIANS.
https://anastpaul.com/2022/02/22/the-feast-of-the-chair-of-saint-peter-at-antioch-22-february/

Vigil of St Matthias, Apostle

Notre-Dame de Rennes / Our Lady of Miracles and Virtues, Rennes, France (1357) – 22 February:
HERE:

https://anastpaul.com/2021/02/22/our-lady-of-of-miracles-and-virtues-rennes-france-1357-feast-of-the-chair-of-st-peter-and-memorials-of-the-saints-22-february/

St Abilius (Died c98) Bishop of Alexandria
St Angelus Portasole
St Aristion of Salamis
St Athanasius of Nicomedia
St Baradates of Cyrrhus

Blessed Diego Carvalho SJ (1578-1624) Priest and Martyr of the Society of Jesus, Missionary to Japan. Patronage Japanese miners. Beatified on 7 May 1867 by Pope Blessed Pius IX.
His Life and Death:

https://anastpaul.com/2021/02/22/saint-of-the-day-22-february-blessed-diego-carvalho-sj-1578-1624-priest-and-martyr/

St Elwin

St Isabella of France (1225-1270) Virgin, Founder Nun, Sister of Saint Louis IX; Aunt of Saint Louis of Toulouse.
Previously done on 26 February (post 1969 Feast Day):
https://anastpaul.com/2017/02/26/saint-of-the-day-26-february-blessed-isabellae-of-france/
AND:
https://anastpaul.com/2024/02/22/saint-of-the-day-22-february-saint-isabella-of-france-1225-1270-virgin/

St John the Saxon
St Limnaes
Bl Mohammed Abdalla
St Papias of Heirapolis
St Paschasius of Vienne
St Raynerius of Beaulieu
St Thalassius

Martyrs of Arabia – A memorial for all the unnamed Christians Martyred in the desert and mountainous areas south of the Dead Sea during the persecutions of Emperor Valerius Maximianus Galerius.

Posted in SAINT of the DAY

Saint of the Day – 21 February – St Felix (4th Century) Bishop of Metz

Saint of the Day – 21 February – St Felix (4th Century) Bishop of Metz. Also known as – Felice, Felix I, Felix I of Metz.

The Roman Martyrology simply reads today: “At Metz, St Felix, Bishop

An ancient unknown French Bishop

Felix I was the 3rd Bishop of Metz. He was included in the chronology of the Diocese by a catalogue compiled around 776. He is preceded by Saint Clement and Saint Celeste and followed by Saint Patient, Saint Victor I and Saint Victor II.

Thanks to the presence of Saint Victor I, documented around 346, it is possible to hypothesise that Saint Felix I governed the City in the second or third decade of the 4th Century.
Tradition believes that he was the shepherd of Metz for forty-two years and six months and died on 21 February in an unspecified year but, this information has no historical foundation.

The Bollandists, in their commentary on the Roman Martyrology, confirm that the origins of the Seat of Metz are very dubious and controversial.

Tradition has it that during the 11th Century Felix’s Relics were delivered by Tierry of Luxembourg, the 42nd Bishop of Metz from 1006-1047, to the Archbishop of Bamberg.

Metx Cathedral
Posted in MARIAN TITLES, SAINT of the DAY

Notre-Dame de Bon-Port / Our Lady of Bon Port/Good Haven, France (1838) and the Saints for 21 February

Notre-Dame de Bon-Port / Our Lady of Bon Port/Good Haven, Paimpol, France (1838) – 21 February:
HERE:

https://anastpaul.com/2021/02/21/the-first-sunday-of-lent-2021-our-lady-of-bon-port-good-haven-paimpol-france-1838-and-memorials-of-the-saints-21-february/

St Avitus II of Clermont
Bl Claudio di Portaceli
St Daniel of Persia
Bl Eleanora
St Ercongotha
St Felix (4th Century) Bishop of Metz
St George of Amastris
St Germanus of Granfield
St Gundebert of Sens

St Maximian of Ravenna (c499-556) Archbishop of Ravenna and Confessor. completor of the immensely renowned Basilica of St Vitalis and many more Churches. He was a man of creative talents who ordered the creation of many famous and very beautiful artworks of various types, for his See, as well as, a great lover of Books and literature, (being a prolific Writer himself) ensuring the acquisition of many illuminated manuscripts. Maximian may have been the first Latin Bishop to use the title ‘Archbishop.’
Biography – his Feast Day was changed after 1969 to 22 February. Being rather confused, I have revisted him today
again: Talented St Maximian:
https://anastpaul.com/2024/02/21/saint-of-the-day-21-february-saint-maximian-of-ravenna-c499-556-bishop-and-confessor/
AND:

https://anastpaul.com/2023/02/22/saint-of-the-day-22-february-saint-maximian-of-ravenna-499-556-bishop/

Blessed Noel Pinot (1747-1794) Priest and Martyr. During the French Revolution, he refused to take the oath of the Civil Constitution of the Clergy unlike his superio! He wore his Mass Vestments to execution and died reciting the opening words of the Mass. He was Beatified by Pope Pius XI on 31 October 1926.
His Life and Death:

https://anastpaul.com/2020/02/21/saint-of-the-day-21-february-blessed-noel-pinot-1747-1794-priest-and-martyr/

St Paterius of Brescia (Died 606) Bishop of Brescia Italy, Monk. Friend and spiritual student of Pope Saint Gregory the Great, prolific spiritual writer.
His Life:

https://anastpaul.com/2023/02/21/saint-of-the-day-21-february-saint-paterius-of-brescia-died-606-bishop/

St Pepin of Landen
St Peter Mavimenus
St Randoald of Granfield
Blessed Richard Henkes

St Robert Southwell SJ (1561-1595) Martyr, Priest of the Society of Jesus, Poet, Hymnodist, Writer, clandestine missionary – Additional Memorials: 25 October as one of the Forty Martyrs of England and Wales and 29 October as one of the Martyrs of Douai.
St Robert’s Biography::

https://anastpaul.wordpress.com/2018/02/21/saint-of-the-day-21-february-st-robert-southwell-s-j-1561-1595-martyr/

St Severian of Scythopolis
St Severus of Syrmium

Blessed Thomas Pormort (c1560-1592) Priest Martyr
His Life and Death:

https://anastpaul.com/2022/02/21/saint-of-the-day-21-february-blessed-thomas-pormort-c-1560-1592-priest-martyr/

St Valerius of San Pedro de Montes
St Verda of Persia

Martyrs of Sicily – 79 Saints: Sevent nine Christians Martyred together in the persecutions of Diocletian. They were Martyred in c 303 on Sicily.

Martyrs of Hadrumetum – A group of 26 Christians Martyred together by Vandals. We know little more than eight of their names – Alexander, Felix, Fortunatus, Saturninus, Secundinus, Servulus, Siricius and Verulus. c 434 at Hadrumetum (modern Sousse, Tunisia).

Posted in SAINT of the DAY

Saint of the Day – 20 February – St Wulfric (c1080-1154) Priest, Penitent, Hermit

Saint of the Day – 20 February – St Wulfric (c1080-1154) Priest,Penitent, Hermit, Ascetic, Advisor to Kings, gifted with the charism of prophecy and healing, Miracle-worker. Born in around 1080 near Bristol, England and died in Haselbury, Somerset, England of natural causes on 20 February 1154. He was a Hermit in Wiltshire, England and was frequently visited by King Stephen. Also known as – Wulfrick, Ulric, Ulrico, Ulrich.

An Unknown Hermit

Wulfric was born at Compton Martin, ten miles south of Bristol. After becoming a Priest, he at first exercised his ministry at Deverill, near Warminster. At this stage, he was apparently much addicted to hunting, with both hawks and hounds. A chance conversation with a beggar, however, converted him to his true vocation as a Priest and he returned to Compton Martin as Parish Priest.

In the year 1125, Wulfric came to St Michael and All Angels Church in Haselbury Plucknett, Somerset. He wished to spend the rest of his life as a Hermit, withdrawn from the world, living in a cell adjacent to the Church. This cell stood on the cold northern side of the building. Although he apparently failed to obtain Episcopal permission for this move, he was supported by the Cluniac Monks at Montacute.

Sir William FitzWalter had a great respect for his saintly neighbour; he sent provisions to him and visited him from time to time. Wulfric numbered among his intimate friends Osbern, the village Priest; William, a lay brother of Forde Abbey and Brichtric, who seems to have joined him as a disciple.

Soon, people came to him for guidance and blessings. During the reigns of Kings Henry I and then King Stephen, Wulfric exercised a powerful influence, not only in his own neighbourhood but also at Court. Henry I was informed, correctly, that he would shortly die, while King Stephen was chastised for the evils of his government. Wulfric received the gifts of prophecy and healing and was involved in many miraculous happenings. He became known as a healer of body, mind, and spirit for all those who sought him out.

One of his visitors was Matilda of Wareham who had been planning to work overseas. Wulfric persuaded her that she should become a Recluse. She was committed and agreed to go to Wareham to work for over two years while a cell was created for her. She returned with her servant Gertrude. She died in the cell after fifteen years and Gertrude agreed to take her place.

According to Abbot John of Forde Abbey, Wulfric lived alone in these simple quarters for 29 years, devoting much of his time to reading the Sacred Scriptures, fasting and praying. He adopted stern ascetic practices: he deprived himself of sleep, ate a frugal and meatless diet, spent hours reciting the Psalms sitting in a bath of cold water and wore a hair shirt and heavy chain-mail tunic.

One of the most influential Hermit Priests of England, he died in his cell on 20 February 1154. At his death, a scuffle occurred in and around St Michael’s Church between black-robed Norman Cluniac Monks from Montacute and the laity from Haselbury and Crewkerne who had been summoned by Osbern, the Priest of Haselbury. The Monks maintained that providing food for the saintly Hermit which they had done for many years, gave them a claim to the holy man’s mortal remains. But the locals, forced them to withdraw and Wulfric was buried in his cell by the Bishop of Bath, who had visited him at his death-bed. For security reasons, Fr Osbern moved Wulfric’s remains twice, until they came to rest somewhere near the west end of the Church, “… in a place known only to himself and God” which we think would have suited St Wulfric’s penitent and humble spirit just fine especially as this Church would now be a protestant one.

St Michael’s Church in Haselbury
Posted in MARIAN TITLES, SAINT of the DAY

Notre-Dame de Bolougne-sur-Mer / Our Lady of Bolougne-sur-Mer, France (633) and the Saints for 20 February

Notre-Dame de Bolougne-sur-Mer / Our Lady of Bolougne-sur-Mer, France (633) – 20 February:
HERE:

https://anastpaul.com/2021/02/20/our-lady-of-bolougne-sur-mer-france-633-and-memorials-of-the-saints-20-february/

St Amata of Assisi OSC (Died c 1250)
St Bolcan of Derken
St Colgan

St Eleutherius of Tournai (c 456-532) the first Bishop of Tournai, France, Martyr. Confessor.
His Life and Death:

https://anastpaul.com/2021/02/20/saint-of-the-day-20-february-saint-eleutherius-of-tournai-c-456-532-bishop-martyr/

St Eucherius of Orleans OSB (c 687-743) Bishop Orléans, Benedictine Monk, Confessor.
About St Eucherius:

https://anastpaul.com/2020/02/20/saint-of-the-day-20-february-saint-eucherius-of-orleans-c-687-743/

St Falco of Maastricht

St Leo of Catania (c720-789) Bishop, Defender of Sacred Images for which opposition he was forced to flee into exile for some years, Hermit. Born in c720 in Ravenna, Italy and died on 20 February 789 in Etna, Sicily, Italy, natural causes. St Leo was the 15th Bishop of Catania, Sicily, famed for his love and care for the poor, his brave opposition to the iconoclastic Government of the time and for his Miracles.
Courageous St Leo:

https://anastpaul.com/2024/02/20/saint-of-the-day-20-february-st-leo-of-catania-c720-789-bishop/
St Nemesius of Cyprus

St Nemesius of Cyprus

Blessed Pietro of Treia OFM (1214-1304) Friar of the Friars Minor. Renowned and eloquent Preacher, Mystic and Ecstatic who levitated and experienced visions. Pope Pius VI, on 11 September 1793 approved the cult and Beatified him.
Biography:

https://anastpaul.com/2022/02/20/saint-of-the-day-20-february-blessed-pietro-of-treia-ofm-1214-1304/

St Pothamius of Cyprus
St Serapion of Alexandria
St Silvanus of Emesa
St Valerius of Courserans
St Wulfric (c1080-1154) Priest and Hermit
St Zenobius of Antioch

Posted in SAINT of the DAY

Saint of the Day – 19 February – Saint Auxibius (Died c102) the 1st Bishop of Soloi on the Island of Cyprus.

Saint of the Day – 19 February – Saint Auxibius (Died c102) the 1st Bishop of Soloi on the Island of Cyprus. He was born in Rome and died in Soloi around the year 102. Also known as – Auxibius of Cyprus, … of Soloi, Ausibio…

The Roman Martyrology reads today: “At Soloi, St Auxibius, Bishop

Auxibius was born into a wealthy family in Rome and grew up there with his brother, Tempstagoras. He was taught secular sciences.

To avoid his parents’ wish that he should marry, he secretly left Rome and came first to the Island of Rhodes and then, to the Island of Cyprus.

Auxibius lived in the area around Limnitis, near the then important City of Soloi. There he met the Apostle and Evangelist St Mark, who converted him through his preaching and Baptised him.

Auxibius was appointed as the Bishop of the City of Soli by Archbishop St Herakleidius, as a document from the 7th Century reports, although some give this honour to St Paul himself. This St Herakleidius (1st Century), showed the Apostles Paul and Barnabas, the way from Salamis to Paphos on their first missionary journey (45 – 53) in Cyprus and also led them to Tamassos, a City-Kingdom which was then important due to its copper mining. Paul and Barnabas BaptiSed Herakleidos and later Ordained him as Bishop of Tamassos, one of the first in Cyprus.

Auxibius held the Episcopal Seat for about 50 years before he died around the year 102.

The 4th Century Basilica, now in ruins, in Soli is named after St Auxibius.

Posted in MARIAN TITLES, SAINT of the DAY

Notre Dame-de-Bonne Nouvelle / Our Lady of Good Tidings, Lempdes, France (1500’s) and the Saints for 19 February

Notre Dame-de-Bonne Nouvelle / Our Lady of Good Tidings, Lempdes, France (1500’s) – 18 February:
HERE:

https://anastpaul.com/2021/02/19/saint-of-the-day-19-february-blessed-alvarez-of-cordova-op-c-1350-c-1430-priest/

Blessed Alvarez of Cordova OP (c 1350–c 1430) Priest of the Order of Preachers, Confessor, Ascetic, Royal Advisor and Tutor, founder of many Churches and Convents, miracle-worker.
A Zealous and Fruitfil Life:

https://anastpaul.com/2021/02/19/saint-of-the-day-19-february-blessed-alvarez-of-cordova-op-c-1350-c-1430-priest/

St Auxibius (Died c102) Bishop
St Baoithin

St Barbatus of Benevento (c610-682) “Apostle of the South” Bishop of Benevento, Preacher, Reformer, Confessor.
About St Barbatus:

https://anastpaul.com/2019/02/19/saint-of-the-day-19-february-st-barbatus-of-benevento-c-610-682-apostle-of-the-south/

St Beatus
St Belina
St Boniface of Lausanne
St Conon of Alexandria

St Conrad of Piacenza TOSF (c 1290-1351) Hermit, Pilgrim and Penitent, Member of the Third Order of St Francis.
The Life of St Conrad
:
https://anastpaul.com/2020/02/19/saint-of-the-day-19-february-st-con

St Mansuetus of Milan (Died c685) Archbishop of Milan, Confessor, an active Defender of the Faith against heresy. Born in Rome and died in Milan in c685 of natural causes.
Holy Shepherd Manseuetus:

https://anastpaul.com/2024/02/19/saint-of-the-day-19-february-saint-mansuetus-of-milan-died-c685-archbishop-of-milan-and-confessor/

St Odran
St Proclus of Bisignano

St Quodvultdeus (Died c450) Bishop, Confessor, Father of the Church, Writer and Theologian, spiritual student, friend and correspondent of St Augustine, who dedicated some of his works to St Quodvultdeus. Name Meaning – “What God wants.”
The Roman Martyrology reads: In Naples, deposition of St Quodvultdeus, Bishop of Carthage, who was sent into exile together with his clergy by the Arian king Genseric and placed on disused ships without sails or oars. Against all hope he landed in Naples, where he died. Confessor of the faith.
His Holy Life:
https://anastpaul.com/2022/02/19/saint-of-the-day-19-february-saint-quodvultdeus-died-c-450-f/

St Valerius of Antibes
St Zambdas of Jerusalem

Posted in SAINT of the DAY

Saint of the Day – 18 February – St Helladius (c566-633) Bishop and Confessor – “A Sun which Illuminates the Darkness.”

Saint of the Day – 18 February – St Helladius (c566-633) Bishop and Confessor, Archbishop of Tiledo for 18 years, Abbot before that, Apostle of the poor and needy. Born in c566 in Toledo, Spain and died there in 632 of natural causes. For his charity towards the poor, he was called “A Sun which Illuminates the Darkness.” Also known as – Eladio, Eladius, Elladio, Heladio.

The Roman Martyrology reads today: “At Toledo, St Helladius, Bishop and Confessor.

Almsgiving of Saint Helladius (Eladius), oil painting by Francisco Bayeu c1770.

The life of Saint Helladius has been handed down to us from the account written by Saint Ildefonso (607-670) of Toledo, who is said to have received his diaconal Ordination from the hands of our Saint.

An Official at the Visigoth Court, he was its representative at the Council of Toledo in 589, designated for his particular merits, his ability and his erudition. Already at that time, according to Ildefonsus’ narrative, Helladius was attracted to religious life and used to help the Monks of Agalai, a Monastery on the banks of the Tagus River, with their manual laboUr.

He eventually entered as a Novice Monk and, in 605, was elected as the Abbot but despite the prestigious position, Helladius continued to carry out all the duties as a simple religious, even the heavy task of carrying wood for the stove.

Due to the extreme charity demonstrated by Helladius towards the poor, “it was as if his warmth and vitality, flowed directly into their limbs and their souls”.

In 615, when the Episcopal See of Toledo became vacant, Helladius accepted election as the new Archbishop, although reluctant to abandon the Monastery. Little is known, however, of his eighteen years as the Archbishop, beyond his generosity towards the neediest. Some authors point out that he may have retired to the Monastery to prepare for his death.

Helladius was venerated as a Saint immediately after his death.

Posted in MARIAN TITLES, SAINT of the DAY

Notre-Dame de Laon / Our Lady of Laon, Rheims, France (500), St Simeon of Jerusalem, Martyr, St Bernadette, Virgin and the Saints for 18 February

Notre-Dame de Laon / Our Lady of Laon, Rheims, France (500), founded by St Remigius – 18 February:
HERE:

https://anastpaul.com/2021/02/18/our-lady-of-laon-rheims-france-500-and-memorials-of-the-saints-18-february/

St Simeon of Jerusalem (Died c 106) Martyr, Bishop of Jerusalem, Cousin of Jesus. Son of Cleopas, was a Jewish Christian leader and the second Bishop of Jerusalem (62 or 70–106).
His Life and Death:

https://anastpaul.com/2022/02/18/saint-of-the-day-18-february-st-simeon-died-c-106-martyr/

St Bernadette Soubirous (1844-1879) of Lourdes – Virgin, The Visionary of Lourdes, Consecrated Religious. Born on 7 January 1844 at Lourdes, Hautes-Pyrénées, France and died on 16 April 1879, Nevers, Nièvre, France of natural causes, aged 35. Her Body is incorrupt and is on display in Nevers, France.
She was Canonised on 8 December 1933 by Pope Pius XI.
St Bernadette!

https://anastpaul.wordpress.com/2018/04/16/saint-of-the-day-16-april-saint-bernadette-soubirous-1844-1879/
AND:
https://anastpaul.com/2024/02/18/saint-of-the-day-18-february-st-bernadette-soubirous-1844-1879-virgin/

St Esuperia of Vercelli
St Ethelina

St Flavian (Died 449) Martyr, Archbishop of Constantinople, Confessor, Defender of the Christ’s two natures, both divine and human.
His Life and Death:

https://anastpaul.com/2019/02/18/saint-of-the-day-18-february-st-flavian-of-constantinople-died-449-martyr/

Blessed John of Fiesole/Fra Angelico OP – The Angelic Friar Giovanni (1387-1455)
The Artist:

https://anastpaul.wordpress.com/2018/02/18/saint-of-the-day-18-february-blessed-john-of-fiesole-fra-angelico-o-p-1387-1455/

St Gertrude Caterina Comensoli
St Helladius (c566-633) Bishop and Confessor
Bl John Pibush – one of the Martyrs of Douai
St Leo of Patera
St Paregorius of Patara
St Sadoth of Seleucia
St Tarasius of Constantinople

St Theotonius OSC (1082-1162) Priest of the Canons Regular, Reformer of religious life in Portugal, Royal Counsellor,, Apostle of the poor, Founder of the Canons Regular of the Holy Cross, now known as “The Crosiers.” He is the first Portuguese Saint.
His Life Story:

https://anastpaul.com/2021/02/18/saint-of-the-day-18-february-saint-theotinius-1082-1162/

Bl William Harrington

Martyrs of North Africa – 7 Saints: Group of Christians who were Martyred together, date unknown. We know nothing else but seven of their names – Classicus, Fructulus, Lucius, Maximus, Rutulus, Secundinus and Silvanus.
They were born and martyred in North Africa.

Martyrs of Rome – 5 Saints: A group of Christians Martyred together in the persecutions of Diocletian. We know nothing else but their names – Alexander, Claudius, Cutias, Maximus and Praepedigna. They were martyred in 295 in Rome, Italy.

Posted in SAINT of the DAY

Saint of the Day – 17 February – Saint Silvinus (c650-c717) Bishop

Saint of the Day – 17 February – Saint Silvinus (c650-c717) Bishop, Missionary evangeliser in north-eastern pagain regions of France, gifted with miracles. Born of Celtic origins and died on 15 February c717 at the Abbey of Auchy-les-Moines, Artois, in Belgium of natural causes. Also known as – Silvinus of Thérouanne, … of Toulouse, … of Auchy, Silvain…. Silvin …. Silvino…. Additional Memorial – 15 February in Auchy France.

The Roman Martyrology reads today: “In the territory of Thérouanne, St Silvinus, Bishop of Toulouse.

Saint-Sylvain in the Church of Mazerolles

Born to a noble family, Sylvinus was of Celtic origins. He renounced a life of wealth and power, to embrace poverty and celibacy.

Ordained a Priest and then a Bishop, he devoted himself to evangelisation and charity, in north-eastern France, still largely pagan.

Silvinus was distinguished by his humility and austerity and was venerated during his life-time for his sanctity and his intercessory gifts of performing miracles.

He died in c717 and was buried in the Monastery of Auchy-les-Moines. Several Churches, Towns and Villages are named after him (Saint-Sylvain-d’Anjou or Saint-Sylvain [Calvados] ). The male first name, Sylvainm is very popular and common in France, Belgium and other French-speaking regions in Africa and, of course, Quebec, Canada.

L’Abbatiale St Sylvian, Auchy-lès-Hesdin
Posted in FEASTS and SOLEMNITIES, MARIAN TITLES, SAINT of the DAY

The Flight into Egypt (Year 1), Our Lady of Constantinople, Bari, Turkey (566), Saturday after Ash Wednesday and the Saints for 17 February

The Flight into Egypt (Year 1)- 17 February:

It was on the seventeenth of February, fifty five days after the Nativity of Jesus, when King Herod’s soldiers — sent to slaughter all little boys in Bethlehem and its neighbourhood who were two years old or under, in order to destroy a rival King, Jesus — were getting perilously near the cave at Bethlehem, where at first they little expected Our Lord to be. Saint Joseph received a message from God through an Angel, whereupon he took Our Lady and the Divine Infant and set off leaving the land of the Jews to travel to a land of the Gentiles. They took no-one with them, by way of servants or friends, as Saint Peter Chrysologus tells us.

The Town to which the Holy Family fled was called Fostat. It was three hundred miles from Bethlehem. A Church has been erected there, on the site of the house where the Holy Family lived during their exile. The little Town where the Holy Family lived in Egypt was not far from Heliopolis, a City in which — when Jesus, Mary and Joseph passed through it — statues of pagan gods crashed to the ground. Both Fostat and Heliopolis are not far from Cairo in Egypt.

Our Lady of Constantinople, Bari, Turkey (566) – 17 February:
HERE:

https://anastpaul.com/2021/02/17/our-lady-of-constantinople-bari-turkey-566-and-memorials-of-the-saints-17-february/

St Alexis Falconieri OSM (Died 1310) – One of the Seven Holy Founders of the Servites.
His Life:

https://anastpaul.com/2020/02/17/saint-of-the-day-17-february-saint-alexis-falconieri-13th-century-1310/

St Benedict of Cagliari
St Bonosus of Trier

St Constabilis of Cava OSB (c 1070-1124) Abbot, Miracle-worker, known as “The Blanket of the Brothers” for his gentle kindness and caring humility for all the Monks in their trials and sorrows.
“The Blanket of the Brothers” :

https://anastpaul.com/2022/02/17/saint-of-the-day-17-february-saint-constabilis-of-cava-osb-c-1070-1124/

St Donatus the Martyr
St Evermod of Ratzeburg
St Faustinus the Martyr

St Finan of Iona (Died 661) the Second Bishop of Lindisfarne succeeding St Aidan.
About St Finan:

https://anastpaul.com/2024/02/17/saint-of-the-day-17-february-saint-finan-of-iona-or-lindisfarne-died-661/

St Fintan of Clonenagh (c 524 – 603) Abbot, “Father of the Irish Monks,” disciple of St Columba of Iona. Fintan was granted the gifts of prophecy and miracles.
“Father of the Irish Monks”
:
https://anastpaul.com/2021/02/17/saint-of-the-day-17-february-saint-fintan-of-clonenagh-c-524-603-father-of-the-irish-monks/

St Flavian of Constantinople
St Fortchern of Trim
St Guevrock
St Habet-Deus
St Julian of Caesarea
St Loman of Trim

Blessed Luke Belludi OFM (c1200- c 1285) Friar of the Order of Friars Minor, companion of St Anthony of Padua on his travels, miracle-woker, founder of convents.
Biography:

https://anastpaul.com/2019/02/17/saint-of-the-day-17-february-blessed-luke-belludi-ofm-c-1200-c-1285/

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