Quote/s of the Day – 17 January – St Anthony Abbot (251-356)
“Do not have a single thing to do with schismatics and absolutely nothing with heretics …”
“Men are often incorrectly called intelligent. Intelligent men are not those who are erudite in the sayings and books of the wise men of old but those, who have an intelligent soul and can discriminate between good and evil. They avoid what is sinful and harms the soul and, with deep gratitude to God, they resolutely adhere, by dint of practice, to what is good and benefits the soul. These men alone, should truly, be called intelligent.”
“Whoever has not experienced temptation cannot enter into the Kingdom of Heaven. Without temptations, no-one can be saved!”
Saint of the Day – 17 January – Blessed Euphemia Domitilla OP (c1299-1359) Prioress and Religious of the Order of Preachers, an Ascetic and a devout Penitent. Euphemia displayed a deep devotion to the Passion, the Blessed Sacrament and the Blessed Virgin. She ruled as Prioress consistently and practised great service to the Convent and construction of a new Church. She was ever disposed to teach the young and assist the needy. Her Cause is ongoing. Born in c1299 in Silesia in modern Poland and died on 17 January 1359 in Racibórz, Poland of natural causes, Also known as – Eufemia of Racibórz, Ofka (a pet name).
In the Castle of Racibórz (a town in Silesi – modern Poland), in 1299, Euphemia was born, the 2nd daughter of Duke Przemislaus of Racibórz and his wife Anna, daughter of Konrad II Czerski. The child took the name of her paternal grandmother, with the diminutive Ofka.
Her father made a vow to God and the Virgin Mary that he would found a Dominican Convent where one of his daughters would become a Nun of that Order. In 1306, the promisebecame the truth, with the construction of the Convent of the Holy Ghost.
Ofka spent her childhood at Court, receiving a deeply religious education. She studied at the Convent of St Catherine, spending many hours of the day in prayer. She loved to meditate ,in particular, on the Passion of the Lord, even with night vigils. She had a great devotion to the Blessed Sacrament and carefully prepared herself to participate in the Divine Mass. She added penitential acts to her prayers – fasting and a hair shirt.
The first biographer narrates a miraculous event which confirmed her vocation – one night she saw the Dominican Church of Racibórz illuminated by three rays and in a glow the dove of the Holy Ghost. Thus her father’s vow was fulfilled, even though her marriage was being arranged, to take place in 1311, with the Duke of Brunswick. This event had to be cancelled and at the age of 14, Ofka donned the Religious Habit, with a solemn ceremony, becoming Sister Domitilla Euphemia.
She lived the rest of her life in seclusion, holding the position of Prioress several times, at least in the years 1341, 1344 and 1349-1359. There are thirty-one legal Decrees signed by her,. We also know that she dedicated herself to the construction of the Church and to the expansion of the Convent thanks to the generous donations she was able to obtain.
Nicholas II of Przemyśl was so benevolent towards the Convent that he entrusted his three daughters Agnieszka and Elżbieta, who later became Nuns, to the Nuns for their education, while one sister entered after being widowed.
Sister Euphemia Domitilla managed to obtain approval on 6 June 1344 by Papal Bull, for the strict observance, from Pope Clement VI. She also had a strong Marian devotion, so much so that, she was always depicted with the Rosary in her hand. She led her Nuns to live an authentically contemplative consecration, in the spirit of the Order of Preachers. She also took care of the education of girls in the Convent as boarders. Help was never lacking for the poor and needy who knocked on the door of the Convent, even in times of economic hardship, due to war or natural disasters.
Over the years, Sister Euphemia Domitilla intensified her ascetic practices, her life of self-denial was well known beyond the walls of the Convent. After about a year of illness, she died on 17 January 1359 and was buried in the crypt under the Chapel of St. Dominic, the mausoleum of the Dukes of Racibórz.
Her memory remained alive, some portraits were circulated. An increasing number of people, praying to her, obtained graces and miracles. The Beatification process was started in 1606 and a biography was published. In 1659, on the 300th Anniversary of her death, the crypt was renovated and her mortal remains were examined. In 1737, the Chapel and the Tomb of Euphemia were rebuilt. In 1734-1735 the Beatification process was resumed, interrupted by wars and in 1810 by the suppression of the Convent due to the heretics. In 1821 the Relics were transferred to the Polish Chapel of the Parish Church. In 1936 the Sarcophagus was restored, but unfortunately, in 1945, when the Red Army conquered Racibórz, it was involved in a fire.
Sister Euphemia Domitilla is venerated by the people as Blessed, a local Confraternity considers her as their Founder. In more peaceful times the Cause for Blessed Euphemia has been renewed and continues in the Congregation for the Causes of Saints.
Saint of the Day – 16 January – Saint Melas (Died c385) Bishop of Rhinocolura, between Egypt and Palestine. Born in his Diocese and died in exile in c385 of natural causes after many sufferings for the Church of Christ. Also known as – Melantius.
The Roman Martyrology states today : “At Rhinocorura in Egypt, in the reign of the Emperor Valens, the holy Bishop, Saint Melas, who rested in peace after suffering exile and other painful trials fothe Catholic Faith.”
The First Council of Ephesus
The City of Rhinocolura is known as an Episcopal Seat in Egypt (its Bishop, Ermogenes, had in fact participated in the Council of Ephesus).
Melas was a native of this City and became its Bishop in the second half of the 4th Century. We owe all that is known about his life to the Catholic Historian Sozomen, who praises his virtues.
The Emperor Valens (died 378) persecuted all the Bishops faithful to the faith of Nicaea, so Melas, having refused to adhere to the Arian doctrines, was a victim of the persecution and sent into exile. The Imperial Commissioners, arriving with an arrest warrant, found him in the Church busy cleaning the lamps. Having learned that they were looking for Bishop Melas, he introduced the Imperial envoys into his home and refreshed them before revealing his identity to them. Won over by Melas’s kindness, they gave him a chance to escape but he was too attached to the Holy and True Faith and too eager toconfess his conviction, to accept such a compromise and went into exile instead.
Sozomen speaks of Melas’ successor to the See of Rhinocolura, namely his brother Solon but the Historian does not provide any further information on Melas. Therefore, it is unknown whether, after the death of Valens, he was able to return from exile and be reinstated in his pastoral office.
Western Martyrologies have kept St Melas in their lists and St Melas is always venerated on the date of 16 January.
St Honoratus of Fondi Abbot Bl James of Luino St James of Tarentaise Bl Joan of Bagno di Romagna Bl Konrad II of Mondsee St Leobazio St Liberata of Pavia St Melas (Died c385) Bishop of Rhinocolura and Confessor St Otto of Morocco St Peter of Morocco St Priscilla of Rome St Sigeberht of East Anglia
Saint of the Day – 15 January – St John Calabytes (Died c450) Beggar Hermit, Monk. Born at Constantinople (modern Istanbul, Turkey) and died in c450 in Rome of natural causes. Also known as – John Calybita, John Calabites, John Calibita, John Chalybita, John Kalabytes, John the Hut-Dweller, Giovanni… There are many versions of our Beggar Saint’s life, some more romantic than others. However extreme some versions might seem, the facts remain the same as does the approximate year of his death. He is our friend and waits to intercede in Heaven, on our behalf.
The Roman Martyrology reads today: “At Rome, St John Calybita. For some time living unknown to his parents in a corner of their house and later in a hut on an island in the Tiber, he was recognised by them only at his death. Being renowned for miracles, he was buried where he had died and, a Church was subsequently erected in his honour in the same place.”
John was the 3rd son of the Senator and General Eutropius in Constantinople and lived at the beginning of the 5th Century. His mother, Theodora, was also of high birth. His parents were Christians but they sadly believed in their own greatness too. While his older brothers competed for excellent careers, John was allowed to cultivate piety above all.
After completing his studies of rhetoric, his parents allowed him to visit the Monastery of the Ecoimetes, or “sleepless ones” in our language because the Monks used the night for prayer. John chose a spiritual guide among the Monks who advised him to study Sacred Scripture and thus discover his vocation.
His parents were happy to oblige and bought him the Holy Scriptures, the most beautiful copy, decorated with gold and precious stones. As he read the Book of Books, John’s joy grew visibly. He was drawn to devote himself entirely to God in the monastic state. But his parents would not allow this. He left this Monastery in the Bosporus and asked to be accepted into another at Ireneon, today Chiboukli. After passing the test, he was accepted among them. Night prayer was a real delight to him.
But, after six years, he felt a deep sense of homesickness. He told the Abbot: “The desire to see my parents does not give me peace for a moment. I ask permission to return to them. The tempter thinks that he will thus turn me away from God but I trust in your prayer and in Christ, Who is at war beside me, that I will be victorious, even if I return to my parents.” The Abbot recommended the tried brother to the monastic family for prayer and allowed him to leave.
St John reveals his identity to his parents on his deathbed
When he arrived home, he was not recognised because of his poor clothing and ascetic appearance. They accepted him as a holy beggar and even allowed him to set up a hut in a corner of the garden and brought him modest food every day. After three years, he fell seriously ill and asked to visit his mother. Then the beggar revealed himself to his parents. They recognised him from the Gospel book he showed them. He breathed his last in their arms shortly afterwards.
He was buried next to the hut and in 468, a Church was built on his grave, to which pilgrims from near and far came and venerated John Calabytes as a Saint.
In Constantinople, Saint John the Calabytes, who, as is reported, lived for some time in a corner of his father’s house, then in a ‘kalyba’ (hut), completely devoted to contemplation and hidden from his parents, who only recognised him as he lay dying, through the golden scroll of the Gospel, which they had given gave to their son.
St Maurus OSB (c512-584) Benedictine Monk, Abbot and Deacon, Miracle-worker. Maurus was the first disciple of Saint Benedict of Nursia (512–584). He is mentioned in Saint Gregory the Great’s biography of the latter as the first oblate, offered to the Monastery by his noble Roman parents as a young boy, to be brought up in the monastic life. The formula and blessing of St Maurus were universally adopted and approved for use in the Blessing of the Sick. His Life and Miracles: https://anastpaul.com/2021/01/15/saint-of-the-day-15-january-saint-maurus-osb-c-512-584/
St Blaithmaic of Iona
St Bonitus of Clermont (c623-706) Bishop, Confessor, Chancellor of the Kingdom, Governor of Provence, Diplomatic peacemaker, Protector of Slaves and active advocate for its abolition, a man of deep devotion and Asceticism, Promoter of monasticism, builder of Churches and Monasteries., Miracle-worker. Heir to a rich heritage, he used his resources not only to beautify Churches and Monasteries but also, to relieve the miseries of the poor. Bonitus is a much loved and endearing Saint in France and, in some ways, a very modern figure. His Zealous Life of Devotion: https://anastpaul.com/2024/01/15/saint-of-the-day-15-january-saint-bonitus-of-clermont-c623-706-bishop-confessor/
St Britta St Ceolwulf of Northumbria St Emebert of Cambrai St Ephysius of Sardinia St Eugyppius Bl Geoffrey of Peronne Bl Giacomo Villa St Gwrnerth St Habacuc the Prophet St Isidore of Scété St Isidore the Egyptian St Ita of Killeedy
St John Calabytes (Died c450) Beggar Hermit
St Liewellyn St Lleudadd of Bardsey St Malard of Chartres St Maximus of Nola St Michaeas the Prophet Bl Peter of Castelnau St Placidus
Saint of the Day – 14 January – Saint Datius of Milan (Died 552) Bishop and Confessor, Bishop of Milan from c529 until his death in 552, Defender of the Faith against heresy, protector and charitable shepherd of his flock. In Chapter 4 (Book 3) of his Dialogues, St Gregory the Great describes Datius as an Exorcist. It is not known when and where he was born but he died between February and March in 552 in Constantinople during his exile, of natural causes. Also known as – Dacius, Dasius, Dazio.
The Roman Martyrology reads today: “At Milan, St Datius, Bishop and Confessor, mentioned by Pope St Gregory.”
Of Saint Datius, the 26th Bishop of Milan, we must remember his intelligent and zealous charity. When, in 535-536, a terrible famine struck the region, he obtained from the Prefect, Cassiodorus, to distribute, to the starving population, the grain reserves, kept in Pavia and Tortona.
This is a sign of how much Datius was esteemed by the ruling powers and how insistent he was in knocking, until the door of the Prefect’s heart opened.
Datius was known for his learning and his personal piety. As Bishop Datius ordered the history of the Church in Milan known as Historia Datiana, to be compiled although some deny that it was Datius who instigated the compilation.
He was imprisoned and exiled by Arian Ostrogoths for defending the true Faith. During his exile he went to Constantinople where he supported Pope Vigilius against Emperor Justinian in the Three Chapters Controversy of 545. Datius also attended the Council of Constantinople in 551 which condemned the Arian Bishop Mennas.
Datius died in Constantinople and his body was later translated from Chalcedon to Milan and buried in the Church of San Vittore al Corpo (Saint Victor Maurus) where it is still venerated today.
Bl Amadeus of Clermont St Barbasymas St Caldeoldus of Vienne St Datius of Milan (Died 552) Bishopand Confessor St Engelmaro St Eufrasio of Clermont St Euphrasius the Martyr
St Felix of Nola (Died c 253) Priest, Confessor, Apostle of Charity .Patronages – against eye disease, against eye trouble, against false witness, against lies, against perjury, domestic animals, of Nola, Italy. The Roman Martyrology states of him today: “At Nola in Campania, the birthday of St Felix, Priest, who (as is related by Bishop, St Paulinus of Nola), after beomg subjected to torments by the persecutors, was cast into prison and extended, bound hand foot, on (snail) shells and broken earthenware. During the night, however, his bonds were loosened and he was delivered by an Angel. The persecution over, he brought many to the Faith of Christ by his exemplary life and teaching and renowned for many miracles, he rested in peace.” A Miraculous Life: https://anastpaul.com/2019/01/14/saint-of-the-day-14-january-st-felix-of-nola-died-c-253/
St Felix of Rome St Fermin of Mende St Fulgentius of Ecija St Glycerius of Antioch
St Macrina the Elder (Died c 340) Widow, Grandmother of St Basil the Great, St Gregory of Nyssa, St Peter of Sebaste and St Macrina the Younger. The Roman Martyrology says today: “St Macrina, disciple of St Gregory Thaumaturgus and the grandmother of St Basil, whom she brought up in the Faith.” Her Faith-filled Life: https://anastpaul.com/2023/01/14/saint-of-the-day-14-january-st-macrina-the-elder-died-c-340-widow/
St Malachy the Prophet St Nino of Georgia Bl Odoric of Pordenone
St Paul of Africa St Potitus Bl Rainer of Arnsberg St Sabas of Sinai St Sava of Serbia St Successus of Africa St Theodolus of Sinai Bl William de Sanjulia
Martyrs of Mount Sinai: A group of Monks on Mount Sinai who were Martyred by desert Bedouins. Their names and exact number have not come down to us. Martyred by Bedouins.
Martyrs of Raithu – 43 Saints: A group of 43 Monks in the Raithu Desert near Mount Sinai, Palestine, near the Red Sea. They were Martyred for their faith by desert Bedouins. Their names have not come down to us. Martyred by Bedouins.
Saint of the Day – 13 January – St Agritius of Trier (c260-c335) the 4th Bishop of Trier Born in Syria and died in 335 of natural causes in his See of Trier. Also known as – Agricius of Trier, Agrecius of Trèves, Agrizio di Treviri, Agrice, Aguy. Additional Memorials – 9 January in Trier , 29 May when the Holy Relics are venerated.
The Roman Martyrology reads today: “At Treves, St Agritius, Bishop.”
In a manuscript from the Monastery of San Massimino, there is a Life of Agritius which constitutes the second part of the Life of Saint Helena. It was almost certainly written in the 11th Century and it is recorded with authority that its author, writing between 1030 and 1045, was a member of the Clergy of the Cathedral of Trier, perhaps Angibaldo, the Chancellor of the Bishop Poppo.
Furthermore, Agritius is remembered as the Bishop in various Calendars of Trier on 13 January and, by the hagiographer of San Massimino.
Of course, we know little of our Saint’s life exce[t that Agritius participated, together with the Exorcist Felix, at the Council of Arles in 314 and that he died before 336, since in the Chronicon of Saint Jerome, it is written that in 336, precisely, St Athanasius, in exile, was welcomed in Trier by Saint Maximinus, Agritius’ successor.
The Life of Agritius, however, although woven with legend, has a considerable historical-literary value, as it is one of the oldest historical documents of Trier and bears witness to the life and mentality dominant in that Church in the 10th Century.
According to this Life, therefore, Agritius, then the Bishop of Antioch, at the request of Helena, mother of Constantine, was appointed by Pope Sylvester as the Bishop of Trier, the 4th shepherd of this Diocese. Trier, two centuries after the first preaching had relapsed into full paganism and Agritius, despite many serious difficulties, undertook the work of rebuilding Christianity, aided by Helena, who gave him precious Relics of the Saviour, a Nail from the Cross and the Holy Tunic and the Relics of Lazarus and Martha. The translation of the latter is represented in an ivory from the Byzantine era depicting Agritius and Pope Sylvester on a cart while carrying the urn to Trier. Sylvester is also said to have given Agritius and his successors, the primacy over the Bishops of Gaul and Germany but this privilege, inserted in the Vita, is undoubtedly apocryphal and probably echoes that granted by Pope John XIII on 22 January 969 to Bishop Thierry.
Pilgrims view Christ’s Holy Tunioc in Trier
The date of Agritius’ death, established by some as 344, by others as 368, is almost certainly to be indicated as 335 due to the testimony of Jerome mentioned above. Agritius is celebrated on 13 January and, in the Diocese of Trier, also on 9 January. The translation of the Relics is celebrated on 29 May on the Feast Day of St Maximinus, St Agritius successor. You can read St Maximinus’ life here: Saint of the Day – 29 May – St Maximinus of Trier (Died c 346)
Panny Marie Vítězné / Our Lady of Victory, Prague, Czech Republic (1620), Home of the Infant of Prague: 13 January: Among shrines dedicated to Our Lady of Victory, that at Prague has become world-famous because it is also the home of the Statue of the Infant of Prague. This Wonderful Shrine which I have been blessed to venerate: https://anastpaul.com/2021/01/13/our-lady-of-victory-prague-and-memorials-of-the-saints-13-january/
St Agritius of Trier (c260-c335)Bishop St Andrew of Trier St Berno of Cluny St Designatus of Maastricht St Elian of Brittany St Enogatus of Aleth St Erbin of Cornwall St Glaphyra St Gumesindus of Córdoba St Hermylus St Hildemar of Arrouaise Bl Ida of Argensolles Bl Ivetta of Huy Widow, Mother, Recluse, Mystic
Saint of the Day – 12 January – Blessed Lucia (1370-1430) Consecrated Virgin, Founder of a Community of Nuns known as the “Poor Sisters of St Chiara” adopting the original Rule of St Clare of Assisi. Born in 1370 in Norcia, Perugia, Umbria, Italy and died on 12 January 1430 of natural causes at her Convent in Valcaldara di Norcia. Patronage – of Valcaldara. Also known as – Lucia of Norcia and Lucia of Valcaldara di Norcia.Her body is Incorrupt.
Lucia, born into a wealthy family in Norcia, consecrated herself totally to the Lord when she was only fifteen years old. With seven companions, she founded a religious Community which took up residence in her father’s house. Their choice of life was a great example to the entire City and on 28 January 1386 the City Council decided to help them. Previously, the Patriarch of Jerusalem, Ferdinand, administrator of the Diocese of Spoleto-Norcia (1370-1390), had recognised them as a valid Community, naming the Convent after Saint Jerome.
In 1390, Lucia founded another Convent and the Church of Santa Maria in Valcaldara (a hamlet of Norcia). With her companions she submitted to the Bishop’s obedience, “they wore ash and eremitic habits, lived a community life and observed the evangelical norm, not professing for many years any Rule approved by the Church”. In 1407 the two Convents united, with the approval of Bishop Augustine, giving life to the Convent of St Chiara. They called themselves the “Poor Sisters of St Chiara” expressing their desire to follow her Rule, although they could not officially observe it as it had been replaced by the Rule of Urban IV.
Lucia died in Valcaldara on 12 January 1430 and was immediately venerated and invoked as a Saint. Her body, still incorrupt today, kept in its shrine of 1637, is exhibited in the Church of the Poor Clares of Santa Maria della Pace, the nametaken by the Convent took after the earthquake of 1703. In Valcaldara, the celebrations in honour of their Patron Saint are solemnly celebrated with great festivities.
St Caesaria of Arles St Caroticus Bl Emmanuel d’Abreu St Eutropius St Ferreolus of Grenoble Bishop Martyr Bl John Gaspard Cratz St John of Ravenna Blessed Lucia (1370-1430) Virgin. Her Body is Incorrupt. St Martinian of Belozersk St Peter of Abessala St Probus of Verona St Quinctus the Soldier St Satyrus
St Tatiana of Rome (Died c 226) Virgin, Martyr. Patronage – students, school children. The Roman Martyrology reads today: “At Rome in the time of the Emperor Alexander, St Tatiana, Martyr who was torn with iron hooks and combs, thrown to the beasts and cast into the fire but, having received no injury, was beheaded and thus, went to Heaven.” Her Life and Death: https://anastpaul.com/2023/01/12/saint-of-the-day-12-january-saint-tatiana-of-rome-died-c-226-virgin-martyr/
St Tigrius St Victorian of Asana Bl Vincent da Cunha
Martyrs of Africa – 44 Saints: A group of 44 Christian soldiers murdered together for their faith in Africa. The only details that survive are four of their names – Castulus, Modestus, Rogatus and Zoticus.
Martyrs of Ephesus – 42 Saints: Forty-two Monks Martyred at a Monastery in Ephesus (modern Turkey) during the persecutions of the Iconoclast Byzantine Emperor Constantine V. Their names have not come down to us. Martyred c 762.
Martyrs of Iona – 38 Saints: Thirty-eight Monks Martyred in Iona, Ireland. Their names have not come down to us. They were Martyred in 750 at Iona, Ireland.
Saint of the Day – 11 January – St Honorata (Died c500) Virgin Consecrated to God and sister of Saint Epiphanius, the Bishop, in the City of Pavia in Italy. Born in Pavia and died there in c500 of natural causes. Also known as – Onorata, Honorata of Pavia..
What we know of Honorata is extracted from the Vita of Saint Epiphanius, her brother and the Bishop of Pavia, written by Saint Ennodius, who was his successor in the Episcopal See.
She was born in Pavia. It is said that she was the sister of Saints Liberata, Especiosa, Luminosa and Epiphanius. She was a Nun at the Convent of San Vicente de Pavia, where she received a good education and training from her sister Saint Liberata or Saint Luminosa. She was Consecrated by her brother Saint Epiphanius of Pavia.
Honorata lived in the Convent until the invasion of the Barbarians who captured her and later freed her through the intercession of her brother Saint Epiphanius. The image below shows Honorata being rescued by her brother.
She was always highly esteemed for her gift of prayer and her dedication to the things of God and her neighbour. She died in her Convent in Pavia. Her remains are preserved in the Convent of Santa Maria in Pavia.
Some traditions believe that Honorata was buried together with the virgins Luminosa, Liberata and Especiosa in the Basilica of San Vicente, in the Church where the remains of Bishop Saint Epiphanius were transferred. 11 January is the anniversary of this translation. Of the group of virgins mentioned, all buried in the Church of San Vicente, only Saint Honorata has been inscribed in the Roman Martyrology which simply states: “In Pavia, Honorata, Virgin.”
St Pope Hyginus (Died 142) Papal Ascension c 138. It is believed he was a Martyr for Christ and suffered during the persecution of Antoninus, although our ancient sources do not confirm this. Tradition holds that during his Papacy he determined the various prerogatives of the clergy and defined the grades of the ecclesiastical hierarchy. Hyginus also instituted Godparents at Baptism to assist the baptised during their Christian life. In addition, he decreed, that all Churches be Consecrated. His Life and Death: https://anastpaul.com/2022/01/11/saint-of-the-day-11-january-saint-pope-hyginus-died-142/
St Boadin of Ireland St Breandan of Ireland (the name is not an error) St Eithne St Fedelemia St Honorata (Died c500) Virgin St Leucius of Alexandria (Died 5th Century) Bishop Martyr
St Liberata of Pavia St Lucius the Soldier St Luminosa of Pavia St Mark the Soldier St Michael of Klopsk St Palaemon St Paldo St Peter of Alexandria St Peter of Anea St Peter the Soldier
Saint of the Day – 10 January – Blessed Giles of Lorenzana OFM (1443-1518) Lay Brother of the Friars Minor, Hermit, Ascetic, Mystic, Apostle of the all in need. Born in 1443 in Laurenzana, Italy as Bernardin de Bello and died on 10 January 1518 in Laurenzana, Italy of natural causes. Patronage – of the City and Diocese of Laurenzana, Italy. Also known as – Giles di Bello, Bernardi … Bernardin … Egidi … Egidius … Blessed Giles was Beatified on 27 June 1880 by Pope Leo XIII. His body is Incorrupt.
Born of pious parents at Lorenzana in Italy, Giles received the name of Bernardine in Baptism. Even as a youth he received the gift of devotion in so eminent a degree that at prayer, his countenance glowed with fervour and he was often seen raised a foot or more from the floor. This attracted general attention and people came from the surrounding places in order to witness Giles at prayer.
The devout young man, however, desired nothing more than to serve God in seclusion. In order, therefore, to withdraw from the attention of the world and also, to progress in Christian perfection, he asked for admission as a Lay Brother at the Convent of the Friars Minor. This request was granted. He was given the name Giles after the saintly Brother Giles, one of the first companions of St Francis of Assisi.
Burning with love for God, Giles knew no greater joy in the Order than to devote himself to the contemplation of heavenly things and, since his superiors were convinced that he was doing great things for the honour of God and the salvation of souls, they permitted him to live in a hermitage close to the Convent.
Here he lived only for God, to Whom he sacrificed his body by severe fasting, and his soul by constant prayer. He overcame the attacks of hell which, like many other great Saints, he had frequently to endure, without ever yielding, for an instant. When he had finished his course, God called him to the eternal union on 10 January 1518.
The Convent bells rang by themselves when Giles of Lorenzana died and a very great concourse of people flocked to venerate him. Many miracles occurred at his grave. Several years after his death his body was found still perfect and Incorrupt, although he had been buried in a very damp place which should have promoted decay. The veneration which had been accorded to him since time immemorial was approved by Pope Leo XIII.
Even today, the cult of Blessed Egidio is very much alive among the people of the central-northern area of Basilicata.
Saint of the Day – 9 January – Blessed Antony Fatati (c1410-1484) Bishop, holding many illustrious Papal appointments for a few Popes in succession. Blessed Antony was austere to himself but generous towards the poor. As the long-serving Bishop of Teramo and then of Ancona, Antony displayed the perfect example of a zealous and loving shepherd. Born in c1410 in Ancona, in the Marches, Italy and died there on 9 January 1484 of natural causes, aged around 74 years. Additional Memorial – 2 September in Ancona. Blessed Antony was Beatified by Pope Pius VI on 9 May 1795. Also known as – Anthony of Teramo, Anthony of Ancona, Antoine… Antonio… His Body is Incorrupt.
Blessed Antony Fatati was born in Ancona to a noble family. He studied in Bologna, Italy and, after Ordination, was appointed a Canon and vicar of the Vatican Chapter of St Peter’s Basilica.
He was then appointed as a senior Chaplain and Cleric of the Apostolic Camera (Treasury) in the Roman Curia, the General Treasurer of the Marches and Vicar General of that Province.
In 1450 he was elected to the Episcopal See of Teramo and, in 1463, of Ancona. In between these elections, in 1456, the King of Naples Alfonso V of Aragon, became so impressed with Antony, the King asked him to be one of his Councilors.
In his long and fruitful pastoral activity, Blessed Antony distinguished himself for his prudence, equanimity, austerity and generosity. He was a shepherd attentive to the needs of his people, whom he guided with wisdom and firmness. He worked to promote charity and social justice and to defend the Catholic Faith.
He was also a man of great culture and profound devotion and piety, devoting himself to prayer and meditation and was an example of Christian life for all who knew him.
Blessed Antony died in his Diocese on 9 January 1484. He was interred in the Diocesan Cathedral. In 1529 his body were found incorrupt after their exhumation. In 1795 a new sarcophagus was commissioned in order to display Blessed Antony’s Incorrupt body for the veneration of the faithful.
St Peter of Sebaste (c340-c391) Bishop of Sebaste in Lesser Armenia. Member of the glorious family of Saints – He was the younger brother of Basil the Great, Gregory of Nyssa, the famous Christian Hermit Naucratius and Macrina the Younger and a close friend of Gregory of Nazianzen, all Saints. Of course, Basil and Gregory of Nazianzen are both Doctors too. St Pete‘r’s Biography: https://anastpaul.com/2021/01/09/saint-of-the-day-9-january-st-peter-of-sebaste-c-340-c-391-bishop/
Blessed Antony Fatati (c1410-1484) Bishop. His Body is Incorrupt. St Brithwald of Canterbury St Eustratius of Olympus Bl Franciscus Yi Bo-Hyeon St Honorius of Buzancais
St Marcellinus of Ancona (Died c577) The 5th Bishop of Ancona, Italy. Patronages – against fire (a raging fire ceased by St Marcellinus waving his prayer book at it; the book survived the fire with only slight damage; afterwards, people who touched it, while praying, were cured of ailments), of Ancona, Italy. The Roman Martyrology reads: “At Ancona, St Marcellinus, Bishop, who, according to St Gregory the Great, miraculously delivered that City from destruction by fire.” Holy Marcellinus: https://anastpaul.com/2024/01/09/saint-of-the-day-9-january-saint-marcellinus-of-ancona-died-c577-bishop/
St Marciana Bl Martinus In Eon-min St Maurontius St Nearchus St Paschasia of Dijon St Philip Berruyer St Polyeucte
Martyrs of Africa – 21 Saints: A group of 21 Christians murdered together for their faith in the persecutions of Decius. The only details to survive are 14 of their names – Artaxes, Epictetus, Felicitas, Felix, Fortunatus, Jucundus, Pictus, Quietus, Quinctus, Rusticus, Secundus, Sillus, Vincent and Vitalis. They were Martyred in c 250.
Martyrs of Antioch – 6 Saints: A group of Christians Martyred together during the persecutions of Diocletian – Anastasius, Anthony, Basilissa, Celsus, Julian and Marcionilla.
Saint of the Day – 8 January – Blessed Edward Waterson (Died 1593) Priest and Martyr, Missionary to his own beleagured English Catholic people under the horrors set in motion by Henry VIII and now being perpetuated by his daughter Elizabeth I. Edward was born in London, England and died by being hanged, drawn and quartered on 8 January 1593 at Newcastle-on-Tyne, England. The prison horses refused to drag Edward to the scaffold and when the guards finally got him there, the ladder for climbing to the scaffold platform, of its own volition jerked to and fro to keep them from climbing it, until Edward himself, made the Sign of the Cross over it and it settled into its position. Additional Memorial – 29 October as one of the Martyrs of Douai.
Hung, drawn and quartered
Little is known of the English Martyr, Blessed Edward Waterson, before 1588. In that year, this young English Protestant, apparently a man of some status, stopped off at Rome on the way back from a trip he had made to Turkey in the company of some British merchants. He had an unusual story to tell about the Turkish visit. There he had met a wealthy Turk who had taken such a liking to him that he offered him the hand of his daughter in marriage. With one proviso. If he chose the girl, he must first convert to Islam.
Whether the young lady appealed to Edward, the proviso did not. Sorry, he answered, he would not abandon his faith in Christ. Travelling home Edward stopped in Rome and there he must have told the tale of his refusal at the English College in Rome. This college was an ancient hospice for British pilgrims which, in 1579 had also been turned into a Seminary for the training of English Catholic young men for the secular Priesthood and the dangerous Apostolate of the English mission. Even though now a Seminary, the college still had accommodations for pilgrims and visitors to Rome. Edward’s name is entered in its Pilgrims’ Book from 29 November to 11 December 1588.
For the young Englishman who had refused to convert to Islam, that was a momentous fortnight. While at the College, he asked to be instructed in the Catholic beliefs. He received the instructions and converted to the Catholic faith of his English forefathers. Whether this decision was impromptu or long-maturing is not known.
One of the Martyrs of Douai
Edward was not even content to remain a layman. In December he left Rome for the English College at Reims, France, to enroll as a student for the Priesthood. On completing his training, he was Ordained a Priest on 11 March 1592. He had not shown himself to be a brilliant student but he was acknowledged to be a model of humility and self-denial.
In June 1592, the Church authorities at Reims sent the new Priest back to England to begin his work. He knew, of course, that he was courting death. Particularly over the past seven years, many English Douai Seminary Priests had been executed for treason as a result of a law enacted against Priests in 1585. But so great was Edward’s zeal that he declared that if given the choice between owning all France for a year or going to England on the mission, he would choose the latter.
Father Waterson’s Apostolate as a Missionary was very creditable. It was also very brief., around a year. In the summer of 1593 he was arrested and put in harsh confinement at Newcastle-upon-Tyne. At Newcastle, too, he was tried and condemned to death for functioning as a Priest. Execution was set for 7 January 1594.
Those who attended his execution at Newcastle reported some unusual happenings. Catholic Archdeacon Trollope said that when the young Priest was tied down to the hurdle (the wicker sledge used to drag traitors to the place of execution), the horses refused to pull it, so he had to be walked to the scaffold. At the gallows, too, the ladder by which he had to mount the platform began to jerk free and twist about on its own. Only when Father Waterson made the Sign of the Cross over it did it come to rest against the platform. According to the law of execution in treasonable cases, his body was cut down from the hangman’s rope before he was dead, disemboweled and cut into four quarters.
Edward Waterson was Beatified by Pope Pius XI in 1929. Twice tested for his Faith in the Lord Jesus Christ, he had passed the test. He is an interesting illustration of how varied in background were the men and women who were Martyred during the English Reformation. Their witness to the Faith is a many-splendoured memorial!
St Apollinaris the Apologist (Died 2nd Century) Confessor, Defender of the True Faith against heretics, Writer, renowned Scholar. Bishop, Apologist. The Roman Martyrology states: “In Hierapolis in Phrygia, in today’s Turkey, Saint Apollinaris, Bishop, who shone under the Emperor Marcus Aurelius for doctrine and holiness.” A Courageous and Zealous Life: https://anastpaul.com/2022/01/08/saint-of-the-day-8-january-saint-apollinaris-the-apologist-died-2nd-century/
St Athelm of Canterbury St Atticus of Constantinople St Carterius of Caesarea
Blessed Edward Waterson (Died 1593) Priest and Martyr
St Ergnad of Ulster St Erhard of Regensburg St Eugenian of Autun St Garibaldus of Regensburg St Gudule of Brussels St Helladius St Julian of Beauvais St Lucian of Beauvais St Maximian of Beauvais St Maximus of Pavia Bl Nathalan of Aberdeen St Patiens of Metz St Pega of Peakirk
St Severinus of Noricum (c410-482) Abbot, Hermit, Missionary, the “Apostle to Noricum” (Noricum is the Latin name for the Celtic Kingdom or Federation of Tribes which included most of modern Austria and part of Slovenia). He established Monasteries and refuge centres for those stricken by war. Severinus was graced with the gifts of prophecy and miracles. Biography: https://anastpaul.com/2023/01/08/saint-of-the-day-8-january-saint-severinus-of-noricum-c-410-482-the-apostle-to-noricum/
St Theophilus the Martyr St Thorfinn St Wulsin of Sherborne
Martyrs of Greece – 9 Saints: A group of Christians honoured in Greece as Martyrs, but we have no details about their lives or deaths – Euctus, Flix, Januarius, Lucius, Palladius, Piscus, Rusticus, Secundus and Timotheus
Martyrs of Terni – 4 Saints: A group of Christian soldiers in the imperial Roman army. Executed during the persecutions of Emperor Claudius. Martyrs. – Carbonanus, Claudius, Planus and Tibudianus. They were martyred in 270 in Terni, Italy.
Saint of the Day – 7 January – Blessed Albert of Siena ECMC (Died c1181) Hermit of St Romuald’s Camaldolese Hermits of Mount Corona, Pilgrim, Penitent, Ascetic, Miracle-worker. Born at Asciano, near Siena in the early 1100s and died in Montealceto not far from his birth Town in c1181 of natural causes. The name Albert means – shining through nobility (Old High German). Also known as – Alberto.
Mosaic in the Cathedral of San Marco in Venice: The Blessed Albert Enter Heaven.
From his earliest childhood, Albert gave proofs of his future holiness by taking food from his mother only at certain times, as if he wanted to fast and, when he was a little older, he set aside three days a week for fasting.
In addition, he made great and long pilgrimages – to Rome, to Apulia, to Mount Gargano, to Venice, to the Promised Land and to Compostella and lived as a Hermit after his return.
The Camaldolese Monk Anselm, often came to him, where they would scourge each other to tame the flesh. Albert then went to Poitou to St William , who had previously been a Count but had given up all worldly riches and honours and become a Monk.
Albert increased his mortification and penances. He put on hair clothes, slept on the bare ground, often stayed awake all night, ate and drank little and because, he wanted to earn his bread by manual labour, like his forefathers in the Egyptian desert, he turned to farming.
Through his intercession, many and varied miracles occurred, in particular water was often turned into wine through his prayers. But because he was held in great esteem by the people because of these miracles, Albert withdrew into solitude again and for this purpose went with his relative Grifolus to Mount Toricelli which, until there arrival had remained un inhabited due to its reputation for violent storms and high winds.
Blessed Albert’s Hermitage on Mount Toricelli
Here, he and his cousin, Grifolus, themselves little cells and Albert drove away the storms and winds by prayer which, prayer remains in force to this day, preventing the recurrence and return of sorms and high winds!
Albert refreshed the workers who came to assist the cultivation of the land, with a small vessel of wine which multiplied miraculously.
After Albert had lived a holy life on this mountain for 27 years, it happened that one day, while he was working in the fields, a hare ran up the wide sleeve of his habit. Those present wanted to kill the animal but he would not allow that and instead set it free. But the animal had hardly been outside when it jumped at him again to hide because it sensed the danger of nearby hunters. Because of this incident, Albert is depicted in paintings with a hare sitting in his sleeve.
During his holy life he had to endure many snares from the devil, who particularly attacked him in the form of a woman but he remained victorious and drove him out of his cell with blows. But, when the saint felt strong temptations, he rolled himself in nettles, following the example of St Benedict.
According to some traditions, Albert last lived in the Hermitage of Montalceto, not far from his hometown, He died there in the peace of Christ around the year 1181.
Blessed Albert of Siena (Died c1181) Hermit St Aldric of Le Mans Bl Ambrose Fernandez St Anastasius of Sens St Brannock of Braunton St Candida of Greece St Cedd St Clerus of Antioch St Crispin I of Pavia St Cronan Beg St Emilian of Saujon St Felix of Heraclea St Giuliano of Gozzano (c350-c391) Deacon, Missionary St Januarius of Heraclea St Julian of Cagliari St Kentigerna
St Lucian of Antioch (Died 312) Confessor, Priest, Marty, Teacher, Theologian, Writer, Founder of the renowned School of Antioch. The Roman Martyrology reads: “The birthday of the blessed Lucian. a Priest of the Church of Antioch and Martyr, who was distinguished for his learning and eloquence. He suffered at Nicomedia for the confession of Christ, in the persecution of Galerius Maximian and was buried at Helenopolis, in Bithynia. His praises have been proclaimed by St John Chrysostom.” His Life and Death: https://anastpaul.com/2024/01/07/saint-of-the-day-7-january-saint-lucian-of-antioch-died-312-confessor-priest-martyr/
St Pallada of Greece St Polyeuctus of Melitene St Reinhold of Cologne St Spolicostus of Greece St Theodore of Egypt St Tillo of Solignac
St Valentine of Passau (Died 475) Bishop in Passau in the Rhaetia region, Switzerland, an area in the border region of modern Italy, Austria and Switzerland, Monk, Abbot, Missionary, Hermit, Miracle-worker. Died on 7 January 475 at Mais, Tyrol, Austria of natural causes. Patronages – against convulsions, against cramps/stomach pain, against epilepsy, against gout, against plague/epidemics, against demonic possession, of cattle diseases, of pilgrims, poor people, City and Diocese of Passau. Biography: https://anastpaul.com/2023/01/07/saint-of-the-day-7january-st-valentine-of-passau-died-475-bishop/
St Virginia of Ste-Verge Bl Wittikund of Westphalia
Saint of the Day – 6 January – Saint Nilammon of Geris (Died c404) Hermit. Born in Egypt in the 4th Century and died in the early 5th, c404 in Geris of natural but miraculous causes. Also known as – Nilammone, Nilamon, Nillammon. His name means: “the son of my people from the Nile” (Hebrew)
The Roman Martyrology reads today: “At Geris in Egypt, St Nilammon, Anchoret, who, whilst he was carried to a Bishopric againsat his will, gave up his soul to God in prayer.”
Nillammon lived as a recluse in a small stone-walled house near Geris (Gerrum) in Egypt. The people and the Patriarch Theophilos I of Alexandria – who was known for his passionate hostility to St John Chrysostom – wanted to Consecrate him as the Bishop of the City.
But he could not be persuaded to leave his little house near this Town which he had barricaded with stones and to accept the Episcopal dignity. He then locked himself in and would die praying, with scores of people pleading with him to reconsider his decision, standing outside. While he was still praying fevently to be released from this great honour but imposing Office, Nillammon died naturally.
The information about Nilammon comes from the Church Historian Sozomenus (c400-c450), who lived and worked shortly after Nilammon’s life.
St Nilammon is one of the 140 Colonnade saints which adorn St Peter’s Basilica and surround the Square, below St Nilammon is on the left with St Fabiola on the right – this is the North Colonnade.
The Epiphany of the Lord Epiphany celebrates the visit of the three Kings or Magi (Wise Men) to the Christ Child, signifying the extension of salvation to the Gentiles. The date of Epiphany, one of the oldest Christian Feasts, is 6 January, the 12th day after Christmas. However, in some countries, the celebration of Epiphany is transferred to the Sunday which falls between 2 January and 8 January (inclusive). Greece, Ireland, Italy and Poland continue to observe Epiphany on 6 January as do traditional Catholics throughout the world. Because Epiphany is one of the most important Feasts, it is a Holy Day of Obligation.
Saint Caspar, Saint Melchior and Saint Balthasar (1st Century) otherwise known as the Three Wise Men/Kings or the Magi – they are all Martyrs. Patronages – against epilepsy/of epileptics, against thunder, furriers, motorists, pilgrims, playing card manufacturers, sawmill workers, travellers, travelling merchants, Cologne, Germany, Saxony. Additional Memorials – 23 July (translation of Relics); 24 July (Cologne, Germany where their Relics lie). Their Lives and Deaths: https://anastpaul.com/2024/01/06/saints-of-the-day-6-january-saint-caspar-saint-melchior-and-saint-balthasar-1st-century-martyrs/
St Charles of Sezze OFM (1613-1670) Stigmatist, Friar, of the Friars Minor, Mystic, Writer, Advisor. His Beatification was celebrated in 1882 while Pope Pius XII approved his Canonisation in 1958 but the Pope died before he could Canonise the Friar so his successor, Pope John XXIII did so on 12 April 1959. His body is incorrupt. About St Charles: https://anastpaul.wordpress.com/2018/01/06/saint-of-the-day-6-january-st-charles-of-sezze-o-f-m-1613-1670/
St Demetrius of Philadelphia St Diman Dubh of Connor St Edeyrn St Eigrad St Erminold of Prüfening
St Julian of Antinoë St Julius Bl Luc of Roucy Bl Macarius the Scot St Macra of Rheims St Merinus
St Melaine of Rennes (Died 530) Bishop of Rennes in Brittany, France, Confessor, previously a Monk and Abbot, Royal Advisor, Miracle-worker. The Roman Martyrology reds: “At Rennes, in France, St Melanius, Bishop and Confessor, who displayed innumerable virtues and with his thoughts ever fixed on Heaven, passed from the world in glory.” Another Feast Day which should be today but was moved in 1969. His Holy Life: https://anastpaul.com/2023/11/06/saint-of-the-day-6-november-saint-melaine-of-rennes-died-c535-bishop-confessor/
St Nilammon of Geris (Died c404) Hermit St Petran of Landévennec
St Pia of Quedlinburg St Pompejanus Bl Raymond de Blanes St Schotin St Wiltrudis of Bergen
Martyrs in Africa: Unknown number of Christian men and women who were Martyred in the persecutions of Septimus Severus. They were burned to death c 210.
Martyrs of Sirmium – 8 Saints: A group of Christians Martyred together for their faith. The only surviving details are the names of eight of them – Anastasius VIII, Florianus, Florus, Jucundus, Peter, Ratites, Tatia and Tilis. They were martyred in the 4th century at Syrmium, Pannonia (modern Sremska Mitrovica, Vojvodina, Serbia).
Twelve Apostles – Saints of Ireland: Twelve 6th Century Irish Monks who studied under Saint Finian at Clonard Abbey and then spread the Faith throughout Ireland. Each has his own commemoration but on this day, they and their good works are considered and celebrated together. Although Saint Finian is sometimes included, most ancient writers list them as –
Saint of the Day – 25 December – Saint Anastasia of Sirmium (Died 304) Widow, Martyr. Patronages – of martyrs, weavers, widows, Borgorose, Italy, Burana in Kyrgyzstan. She is one of seven women who, along with Blessed Virgin Mary, are commemorated by name in the Roman Canon of the Mass.
From a Triptych in Zadar Cathedral
Before the liturgical reforms of the 20th Century, this Martyr enjoyed the distinction, unique in the Roman Liturgy, of having a special commemoration in the second Mass on Christmas Day. Since the time of St Gregory the Great (Papacy 590-604) and celebrated by the Pope himself, her name was also inserted into the Roman Canon.
The Roman Martyrology reads today: “The birthday of St Anastasia, who, in the time of Diocletian, first suffered a severed and harsh imprisonment on the part of her her husband, Publius, in which, however, she was much consoled and encouraged by the Confessor of Christ, St Chrysogonus. Afterwards, she was thrown into prison again by order of Florus, Prefect of Illyria and, finally having her hands and feet stretched out, she was tied to stakes with a fire kindled about her in the midst of which, she ended her Martyrdom on the Island of Palmarola, whither she had been conveyed with two hundred men and seventy women, who have made Martyrdom a glorious thing by the various kinds of death they so courageously endured. ”
Anastasia, daughter of Pretestato a noble Roman, was a native of Sirmium, Pannonia, a Roman City in what is now Yugoslavia. She was the wife of Publius, a pagan, nevertheless, she was entirely devoted to assisting the Christians of Rome, who were forbidden, by an unjust law, to carry out any profession. Her husband, who was very much against her good works, cruelly punished her every disobedience but she was comforted by the advice of St Chrysogonus, who was also persecuted and imprisoned.
After her husband’s death, she was able to exercise her Christian charity more freely. Her spiritual advisor St Chrysogonus, had been arrested and sent to the Imperial Court in Aquileia, Anastasia accompanied him on the journey from Rome and witnessed the interrogation and then his beheading, the body was abandoned at the home of the three Christian sisters Agape, Chionia, Irene, who with the help of the holy priest Zoilus, gave him burial and for this they were all arrested.
Then Diocletian left for Macedonia taking with him all the imprisoned Christians and with them Anastasia; from Macedonia he moved towards Sirmium in Illyria, here the matron Theodota and her three sons were reported to him as fugitive Christians and he had them imprisoned.
The interest which Anastasia had in the fate of the four, aroused the suspicion of the pagans who reported her to the prefect Probus; these, after interrogations and vain attempts to make her renounce Christ, kept her in chains for a month and then put her on a pierced ship, together with other Christians and criminals and sent it out to sea to a certain death. But they miraculously escaped the stormy seas and landed at Palmaria, where they were again captured and offered freedom in exchange for honouring the gods. After their consistent refusal they were all massacred, while Anastasia was burned alive. Her ashes were collected by a woman named Apollonia who placed them in a small Church in her garden.
Although this ‘passio’ is probably partly enhanced and imagined, it is certain that the cult of a Martyr St Anastasia in Sirmium, is very ancient and then spread to Constantinople and Rome. In Sirmium, her Relics were venerated until about 460, when then, the Bishop Gennadius had them transferred to Constantinople to the Church that later took her name. In Rome, since the 4th Century, there was a Titular Church, already dedicated to her, right in the centre of pagan memories (Circus Maximus, on the Palatine).
She is depicted without particular attributes among the virgins in procession in the Church of St Apollinare Nuovo, also present on the bronze door of St Mark in Venice, in the Cathedral of Zadar in Sirmium (Yugoslavia) and others. In ancient times various Churches were dedicated to her, including that of Verona and the other very ancient and important for its historical and archaeological aspect, in Rome, already mentioned which, in the 7th Century, was already listed as the third most important Church after the Lateran and St Mary Major. The Cathedral of Zadar (Sirmium) is also dedicated to her.
The Nativity of Our Lord, Christmas Day! Celebration of the Anniversary of the Birth of Our Lord. In the earliest days of the Church there was no such Feast, the Saviour’s Birth was commemorated with the Epiphany by the Greek and other Eastern Churches. First mention of the Feast, then kept on 20 May, was made by Clement of Alexandria c 200. The Latin Church began in c 300 to observe it on 25 December, though there is no certainty that Our Lord was born on that day. Today, Priests have the privilege of saying three Masses, at midnight, daybreak and morning. This was originally reserved to the Holy Father alone – beginning about the 4th century he celebrated a midnight Mass in the Lateran Basilica (in which according to tradition, the manger of Bethlehem is preserved), a second in the Church of Saint Anastasia, whose Feast comes on 25 December and a third at the Vatican Basilica. Many peculiar customs of the day are the outcome of the pagan celebrations of the January calendar. The Christmas tree, of which the first known mention was made in 1605 at Strasbourg, was introduced into France and England in 1840. The Feast is a Holy Day of Obligation, preceded by the preparatory season of Advent and by a special Vigil – should it fall on a Friday it abrogates the law of abstinence. Of course, Christmas attracts an Octave, when this wonderful Mystery and Miracle is celebrated for eight days. https://anastpaul.com/2019/12/25/the-solemnity-of-the-nativity-of-our-lord-jesus-christ-25-december-2/ AND: https://anastpaul.com/2018/12/25/the-solemnity-of-the-nativity-of-our-lord-jesus-christ-25-december/ AND: https://anastpaul.wordpress.com/2017/12/25/25-december-the-solemnity-of-the-birth-of-our-lord-jesus-christ-2/
St Adalsindis of Hamay St Alburga of Wilton St Anastasia of Sirmium (Died 304) Widow, Martyr
Saint of the Day – 24 December – Saint Gregory of Spoleto (Died c304) Priest Martyr. Died in Spoleto, Italy after many tortures by being beheaded in c304.
The Roman Martyrology reads today: “At Spoleto, the holy Priest, Gregory. In the time of the Emperors Diocletian and Maximian, he was first beaten with rough clubs and then, after being exposed on the gridiron and improised, was struck on the knees with iron carding instrucments, burned on the sides with firebrands and finally, beheaded.”
Gregory was a holy Priest of Spoleto, in Italy, who employed his time, night and day, in fasting and prayer and in teaching others the holy law of God.
It happened that Flaccus, a General of the armed forces, arrived at that City with a special order from the Emperor Maximian, to punish all the Christians. An information was laid before him, stating that Gregory seduced many and despised the gods and the Emperors. Soldiers were immediately despatched to bring him bound before his tribunal. When he appeared, Flaccus, with a stern countenance, said: “Are you Gregory of Spoleto?” The Martyr answered, “I am.” Flaccus again said, “Are you the enemy of the gods and the enemy of the princes?” St. Gregory replied, “From my infancy, I have always served the God Who formed me out of the earth.” Flaccus asked, “Who is your God?” “He,” replied the Martyr, “Who made man to His Own Image and likeness, Who is all-powerful and immortal and Who will render to all men according to their works.” Flaccus said, “Do not use many words but do what I command you.” The Martyr replied, “I know not what your command implies but I do what I am bound to do.” Flaccus urged, “If you desire to save yourself, go to the wonderful temple and sacrifice to the great gods and you shall be our friend and shall receive many favours from our most invincible Emperors.” St Gregory said, “I desire not such a friendship, nor do I sacrifice to devils but to my God, Jesus Christ.”
The Judge commanded him to be buffeted on the face, beaten with clubs and tortured on the rack and at length, ordered his head to be cut off. This happened in 304. His Relics were originally enshrined in a Church which bears his name at Spoleto. In the 10th Century, St Bruno, the Archbishop of Cologne, transferred Gregory’s Relics to his City’s Cathedral, which gave rise to an impressive local iconography and cultus. In the few figures of the Saint (the 14th Century stained glass window of the Cathedral and the frontispiece of the Cologne Missal) Gregory is depicted in priestly robes with a book in his hand, the Palm of Martyrdom and the sword with which he was beheaded.
In 1037, Baronius found a copy of these Acta of our Saint Gregory, an authentic testimony of a glorious miracle wrought by the touch of these Relics.
The Vigil of the Nativity oL Our Lord Jesus Christ Midnight Mass is the first Liturgy of Christmastide which is celebrated on the night of Christmas Eve, traditionally beginning at midnight when Christmas Eve gives way to Christmas Day. This popular Christmas custom is a jubilant celebration of the Mass in honour of the Nativity of Jesus Christ.
Christmas Novena to the Divine Infant Jesus By St Alphonsus, THE NINTH DAY
The Miraculous Monthly Novena to the Infant Jesus of Prague The Ninth Day
St Irmina of Oehren (Died c716) Virgin Princess, Nun, Abbess, Founder and Co-founder of 2 Monasteries, benefactress of St Willibrord, the great Missionary Saint of Germany. The Roman Martyrology states: “In Trier in Austrasia, in Germany, Saint Irmina, Abbess of the Monastery of Öhren, who, a virgin consecrated to God, gave Saint Willibrord a small Monastery she founded in her villa in Echternach and was a generous giver of her goods.” Her Life: https://anastpaul.com/2021/12/24/saint-of-the-day-24-december-saint-irmina-of-oehren-died-c-716/
St Mochua of Timahoe
St Trasilla (Sixth Century) Virgin, Aunt of Saint Pope Gregory the Great (540-604) The Roman Martyrology reads today: “At Rome, the birthday of the holy Virgin, Trasilla, Aunt of St Gregory, Pope, who writs of her that at the hour of her death, she saw Jesus coming to her.” St Trasilla’s Life: https://anastpaul.com/2022/12/24/saint-of-the-day-24-december-st-trasilla-sixth-century-virgin/
Blessed Mercedarian Brother: Blessed Dionysius Roneo Blessed Philip Claro Blessed Giulio Pons Blessed Peter of Valladolid
Blessed Mercedarian Sisters: Blessed Anna Maria Prieto Blessed Anna de Arrano Blessed Orsola de Larisgoizia Blessed Maguna Mary Blessed Margaret Blessed Mary of the Assumption Sarria
Martyred Maidens of Antioch – 40 Saints: A group of forty Virgins Martyred in the persecutions of Decius. None of their names have come down to us. They were martyred in 250 in Antioch, Syria.
Martyrs of Tripoli – 6 Saints: A group of Christians Martyred together, date unknown. The only details that have survived are six of the names – Drusus, Lucian, Metrobius, Paul, Theotimus and Zenobius. They were martyred in Tripoli, Libya.
Saint of the Day – 23 December – Saint Frithbert of Hexham (Died 766) Bishop of Hexham, England serving his Diocese for 32 years and administering Lindisfarne. He died on 23 December 766 of natural causes. Also known as – Fridebert, Frithubeorht, Frideberto, Frithelbert.
The Reredos at Hexham Abbey depicting the 7 Canonised Bishops. St Firthbert is shown second from the right,
As the 7th Bishop of Hexham, Frithbert served as the Bishop for a lengthy 32 years until his death. He had been Cconsecrated on 8 September 734 by Archbishop Ecgbert. The Diocese which developed in the territory between the Rivers Aln and Tees, had its Seat in the Monastery founded by St Wilfrid of York in 674. Only thirteen Bishops of this ancient Diocese are known and 7 of them are Canonised Saints. After the devastating raids of the Danish Vikings in the 9th Century, around the year 821, the Diocese was united with that of Lindisfarne.
In 750, when Cynewul, then the Bishop of Lindisfarne – was imprisoned for political reasons during a dynastic clash, Frithbert also administered the See of Lindisfarne.
He died on 23 December 766, the same year as Archbishop Ecgbert. St Bede praised Firthbert as a “truly faithful Bishop.”
St Frithbert’s Relics were re-discovered at Hexham in 1154.
St Ivo of Chartres (c1040-1115) Bishop of Chartres, France from 1090 until his death, Confessor, Reformer, Defender of the Faith, Lawyer, Canon Lawyer, Teacher and Theologian, Writer. The Roman Martyrology states: “In Chartres in France, Saint Ivo, Bishop, who re-established the Order of the Canons and did much work and wrote to promote harmony between the clergy and the civil powers and for the good of the Church.” Biography: https://anastpaul.com/2021/12/23/saint-of-the-day-23-december-saint-ivo-of-chartres-c-1040-1115/
St John Cirita St John Stone St Mardonius of Rome St Mazota of Abernethy St Migdonius of Rome
St Servulus (Died c 590) Layman, Beggar, paralysed by Palsy from birth. Saint Servulus was a perfect model of submission to the divine Will; it would be difficult to offer a more consoling example to persons afflicted by poverty, illnesses and the other miseries of life. It is Saint Gregory the Great who narrates for us his edifying story. St Servulus’ Life of devotion: https://anastpaul.com/2020/12/23/saint-of-the-day-23-december-saint-servulus-died-c-590/
Martyrs of Crete – 10 Saints: A group of ten Christians who died in the persecutions of Decius. They were – Agathopus • Basilides • Cleomenes • Eunician • Euporus • Evaristus • Gelasius • Saturninus • Theodulus • Zeticus They were martyred in 250 on the island of Crete.
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