Saint of the Day – 26 May – Blessed Andrea Franchi OP (1335-1401) known as “The Father of the Poor”Bishop, Priest and Friar of the Order of Preachers, renowned Preacher and missionary evangelist, Professor of Prior, Reformer, Miracle-worker. Born in 1335 in Pistoia, Italy and died on 26 May 1401 in Pistoia, Italy of natural causes.
Andrea Franchi was born in Pistoia in 1335 as the third of four children which included – Francesco Franchi, as well as Bartolomeo – an Advisor tp Pope Urban VI and Pope Boniface IX – and Luca (who joined Andreas in the Dominican Order).
He studied at the Dominican Convent of Santa Maria Novella in Pistoia and, in 1359, at the very young age of 14 years, entered the Dominicans. He was later Ordained to the Priesthood and became a noted Preacher and internal missionmary evangelist. He also served as a teacher in Rome of both philosophical and theological studies.
From 1369 until 1381, Andrea served as the Prior of the Dominican houses in his home Town of Pistoia, and also of the districts of Lucca and Orvieto.
In 1382, he was appointed aas the Bishop of Pistoia, by Pope Urban VI. The new Bishop received his Episcopal Consecration sometime in 1382. He administered to the poor and to the ill and gained the moniker of the “The Father of the Poor.” After 18 years servoce, ill health forced him, on 29 May 1400 – to relinquish his Episcopal See and he returned to his Pistoia Convent where he remained for the final months of his life.
Andrea died in 1401. He was interred in theChurch of San Domenico in Pistoia and his remains were found to be incorrupt after their exhumation in 1613 – a sweet odour emanated from his remains.
This holy and zealous Dominican received formal Beatification by Pope Benedict XV on 21 November 1921 after the Pontiff confirmed the late Bishop’s cultus.
St Alphaeus St Anderea Kaggwa Blessed Andrea Franchi OP (1335-1401) Bishop St Becan of Cork Bl Berengar of Saint-Papoul St Damian the Missionary St Desiderius of Vienne St Eleuterus Pope and Martyr St Felicissimus of Todi
St Odulvald of Melrose St Paulinus of Todi St Peter Sanz St Ponsiano Ngondwe St Priscus of Auxerre and Companions St Quadratus of Africa St Quadratus the Apologist St Regintrudis of Nonnberg St Simitrius of Rome and Companions St Zachary of Vienne
Saint of the Day – 25 May – Blessed Bartolomeus Magi di Amghiari OFM (1460-1510) Confessor, Friar of the Order of Friar’s Minor. Born in 1460 in Anghiari, Italy and died in 1510 in Empoli, Italy of natural causes. Also known as – Bartholomeo, Bartholomew. Additional Memorial – 29 August (Enshrinment of Relics)
In the Franciscan Obituary our Bartholomeus is remembers today as follows: “Near Empoli, in Tuscany, the Blessed Bartholomaeus Magi, from Anglario, a Confessor who, adorned with chastity, humility,and patience, led an almost angelic life. ”
I can find little personal detail of our Saints life but the cult and memory of Bartolomeus Magi of Anghiari, as well as within the Franciscan Order, has been a constant love over the centuries, espeically in the devotion of the Parish of Anghiari, indeed the Church of Santa Croce, with the adjoining Convent, remains a monument in honour of the Blessed.
He, by his holy advice, organised the construction of this Church which, according to his intention, was to commemorate the miracle of the of the Stigmata of Saint Francis which occurred in 1224, when he passed near the Castle and raised a Cross there.
The Church of Santa Croce in Anghiari was built and Consecrated on 15 October 1566. The faithful of Anghiari wanted to house the mortal remains of the blessed Bartolomeus Magi. But this grace was obtained only in 1603. It was on 19 August when, in the City of Empoli, Father Valerio Martelli delivered the Relics of the head of the Blessed to Mr. Maurizio di Girolamo Magi, to place them in the Church of Santa Croce in Anghiari which was officiated at the time by the Zoccolanti Fathers.
Public veneration of the Blessed Bartolomeo Magi was paid in the Church of Santa Croce by the Decree of the Bishop of Sansepolcro Fra Zanobio de Medici OP, issued on 19 June 1635. This privilege was granted at the request of the Municipal Administration of Anghiari of those times, who erected a beautiful Monument to Blessed Bartolomeo. In the Hall of the City Council of Anghiari, the marble bust of the Blessed still dominates today, as does the picture painted by Proposto Tuti in the Sacristy of the Church.
Coming to more recent times, we remember that public veneration of the Blessed Bartolomeus Magi was recognised in any Church, Oratory, or Chapel by the Bishop of Sansepolcro ,Annibale Tommasi on 2 May 1830, after having completed the recognition of the illustrious Relic. In 1907 Giovanni Volpi, Bishop of Arezzo, made his first pastoral visit to Anghiari and with the Decree of 9 June of the same year, he repeated what Monsignor Tommasi had established and was allowed to transfer the Relic from the Church of Santa Croce to that of Propositura, in order to encourage the rememberance and veneration of the faithful.
In August 1910 the IV Centenary of the death of the Blessed was celebrated in the Propositura of Anghiari and in 1922 the Association of Male Catholic Youth had the Blessed Bartolomeus Magi as its protector. In 1950, the Catholic Action Associations of the Parish, built a new Altar in the Propositura under Sogliani’s painting to give a more decorous arrangement to the Relic of the Head of the Blessed Magi, placed in a precious Reliquary.
The Feast of the Blessed is celebrated at this Altar on 29 August of each year.
St Pope Gregory VII (1015-1085) Confessor, Bishop of Rome 22 April 1073 to his death in 1085, Monk, Priest, Reformer, Administrator, Adviser. Pope Gregory “was probably the most energetic and determined man ever to occupy the See of Peter and was driven by an almost mystically exalted vision of the awesome responsibility and dignity of the papal office” (Eamonn Duffy, Saints and Sinners: A History of the Popes). Biography: https://anastpaul.com/2018/05/25/saint-of-the-day-25-may-st-pope-gregory-vii-c-1015-1085/
Bl Antonio Caixal Blessed Bartolomeus Magi di Amghiari OFM (1460-1510) Confessor, Friar of the Order of Friar’s Minor St Canio St Denis Ssebuggwawo St Dionysius of Milan St Dunchadh of Iona St Egilhard of Cornelimünster Bl Gerardo Mecatti St Gerbald St Injuriosus of Auvergne St Iosephus Chang Song-Jib Bl James Bertoni Bl Juan of Granada St Leo of Troyes
St Madeleine Sophie Barat RSCJ (1779-1865) Virgin, Religious, Foundress of the Religious of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, Institute of Teachers. Patronage – Teachers. Her body is incorupt. Saint Madeleine Sophie died in Paris on 25 May, 1865. Ascension Day. She was buried in the cemetery at Conflans. In 1904, when the French Sisters were expelled by the Combes laws, her body was transferred to the Sacred Heart at Jette, Brussels. Since her Beatification in 1908 by St Pius X, her well-preserved body has been exposed in a Shrine. She was Canonised n 24 May 1908 by Pope Pius XI Her Life of Love: https://anastpaul.com/2022/05/25/saint-of-the-day-25-may-st-madeleine-sophie-barat-rscj-1779-1865-v/
St Matthêô Nguyen Van Ðac Phuong St Maximus of Evreux Bl Nicholas Tsehelsky St Pasicrates of Dorostorum Bl Pedro Malasanch St Pherô Ðoàn Van Vân St Scholastica of Auvergne St Senzio of Bieda St Urban I, Pope St Valentio of Dorostorum St Victorinus of Acquiney St Winebald of Saint Bertin St Worad of Saint Bertin St Zenobius of Florence
Quote/s of the Day – 24 May – “The Month of the Blessed Virgin Mary” and the Feast of Our Lady, Help of Christians/Auxilium Christianorum and the Feast Day of Saint Vincent of Lérins (Died c445) Confessor
Most Holy Virgin Mary, Help of Christians By St John Bosco (1815-1888)
Most Holy Virgin Mary, Help of Christians, how sweet it is to come to thy feet imploring thy perpetual help. If earthly mothers cease not to remember their children, how can thou, the most loving of all mothers, forget me? Grant then to me, I implore thee thy perpetual help in all my necessities, in every sorrow and especially in all my temptations. I ask for thy unceasing help for all who are now suffering. Help the weak, cure the sick, convert sinners. Grant through thy intercession, many vocations to the religious life. Obtain for us, O Mary, Help of Christians, that having invoked thee on earth we may love and eternally thank thee in Heaven. Amen
Saint of the Day – 24 May – Blessed Juan del Prado OFM (1563-1631) Martyr, Priest, Religious of the Friars Minor of the Barefooted Franciscans of the Strict Observance, Missionary to Muslims in Morocco. Born in 1563 at Morgobresio, Habsburg, Kingdom of Léon, Spain and died by being burned to death on 24 May 1636 at Morocco, North Africa. Also known as – Giovanni di Prado, John of Prado.
Juan del Prado was born in 1563 in Morgovejo, Léon, Spain, to a noble Spanish family. He attended the University of Salamanca and in 1584 made his religious profession in the Order of Friars Minor. Having then received Priestly Ordination, he was initially sent to his home town to preach. He served in various communities as Novice Master and later, as Guardian. However, he was then removed from this last position following a false accusation made against him despite the holiness of life and humility which distinguished him. In 1610, having definitively established his innocence, he was able to be elected Minister of the newly formed Province of San Diego.
In the meantime, the desire to be able to dedicate himself to announcing the Gospel to the pagans, in one of the many missions already existing at that time scattered around the world, grew in his heart. When, IN 1613, the plague raged in Morocco most of his brothers in Morocco, engaged in the difficult mission with the local Muslim population, sadly succombed to the illmess. With the need to replace this sad loss, Juan was able to realise his dream and Pope Urban VIII did not hesitate to name him an Apostolic Missionary and give him special powers.
Having arrived on site, he and two companions began to take care of the Christian slaves. The local authorities ordered them to leave the Town but the three Franciscans did not give up and continued with their activity. They were then arrested near Marrakech, imprisoned and sent to crush saltpetre, the mineral for the manufacture of gunpowder. Led by the Sultan, they did not hesitate to profess their Christian faith and were, therefore, flogged and thrown back into prison. In a subsequent public interrogation, ignoring the presence of the Sultan, Juan turned his attention to some apostates present. Mulay al Walid then struck him, throwing him to the ground, he was pierced by two arrows and burned alive. Overwhelmed by the flames, he persevered in exhorting the executioners to follow Christ but one of them became impatient and smashed his head with a stone.
Pope Benedict XIII Beatified Juan deL Prado on 24 May 1728, officially recognising his Martyrdom “in odium fidei.”
Our Lady of China: Our Lady of China is a title for the Virgin Mary in China who is believed to have appeared at the small village of Donglu in 1900. In Chinese she is called Zhōnghuá Shèngmǔ. She is also known as Our Lady of Donglu.
St Afra of Brescia Bl Benedict of Cassino
St David, King of Scotland (1085-1183) King David was a social and religious Reformer, a man of great administrative skills, apostle of charity and of holy piety. He transformed his Kingdom by the widespread introduction of Catholic Churches and Monasteries, thus also assisting in the international diplomatic influence of his country, it’s farming and agricultural wealth and it’s education. He was the main force and instrument of God in Christianising Scotland. St David’s life: https://anastpaul.com/2020/05/24/saint-of-the-day-24-may-st-david-king-of-scotland-1085-1183/
Bl Diego Alonso St Donatian of Nantes St Gennadius of Astroga St Hubert of Bretigny St Joanna the Myrrhbearer Blessed Juan del Prado OFM (1563-1631) Martyr, Priest, Religious of the Friars Minor Bl John of Montfort Blessed Juan of Huete St Manahen St Marciana of Galatia St Meletius the Soldier Bl Nicetas of Pereslav St Palladia St Patrick of Bayeux
St Rogatian of Nantes St Sérvulo of Trieste St Simeon Stylites the Younger
St Susanna Martyr (Died 2nd Century) One of a group of wives of 2nd century Martyred soldiers under the command of Saint Meletius. Following the death of the soldiers, the wives and children were Martyred, as well.
Martyrs of Istria: A group of early Martyrs in the Istria peninsula. We know little more than some names – Diocles, Felix, Servilius, Silvanus and Zoëllus.
Martyrs of Plovdiv: 38 Christians Martyred together in the persecutions of Diocletian and Maximian. We don’t even known their names. They were beheaded in Plovdiv, Bulgaria.
Saint/s of the Day – 23 May – Saint Eutychius of Valcastoria (6th Century) Abbot and Confessor, Hermit and Saint Florentius of Valcastoria (6th Century) Confessor, Hermit, Miracle-worker. Also known as Eutizio and Fiorenzo. St Florentius attracts 2 additional memorils – on 1 June in Foligno and on 27 June in Norcia.
The Roman Martyrology reads: “In the territory of Norcia in Umbria, commemoration of Saint Eutizio, Abbot, who, as Pope Saint Gregory the Great recounts, first practiced a solitary life together with Saint Fiorenzo, leading many to God with their encouragement and later, governed the nearby Monastery with great holiness.”
St Gregory the Great narrates their lives in the Dialogues. There is also a legend of Eutychius of late origin, in which the events told by St Gregory are attributed to him. And what is found in the fabulous Acts of another Eutychius are also sometimes attributed to today’s Saint.
After having led a solitary life together with Florentius in the Norcia Province, Eutychius was elected Abbot of a Monastery in Valcastoria, famous in the Middle Ages which he ruled for many years and which took its name from him, even though he was not its founder.
It is believed that the arrival of Eutychius to Valcastoria and the construction of the Monastery date o the early times of the Ostrogothic invasion, i.e. after 487.
When Eutychius became the Abbot, Florentius remained alone and, suffering as a result, he prayed to the Lord to send him a companion. As soon as he left the oratory he found a bear, to which he gave the task of taking four or five goats to pasture, a job which the animal carried out with care. But four of Eutychius’ Monks, envious of Florentius’ miracles, killed the bear, causing him great pain. Eutychius went to console him but Florentius, inconsolable, asked the Lord for severe punishment of the guilty. These, struck by a mysterious illness, died miserably.
Upon Eutychius’ death, Florentius probably took himself to Foligno, where he died around 540 and where he is commemorated on 1 June. In Norcia, his Feast is 27 June. The Martyrology of Farfa, from the 16th Century commemorates both our Saints today on 23 May as Confessors. Both are registered in the Roman Martyrology on 23 May.
St Epitacius of Tuy St Euphebius of Naples St Eutychius of Valcastoria (6th Century) Abbot and Confessor St Florentius of Valcastoria (6th Century) Hermit and Confessor St Goban Gobhnena
Martyrs of Béziers: 20 Mercedarian Friars murdered by Huguenots for being Catholic. Martyrs. 1562 at the Mercedarian convent at Béziers, France.
Martyrs of Cappadocia: A group of Christians tortured and Martyred in the persecutions of Diocletian and Galerius. Their names and the details of their lives have not come down to us. They were crushed to death in c.303 in Cappadocia (in modern Turkey).
Martyrs of Carthage: When a civil revolt erupted in Carthage in 259 during a period of persecution by Valerian, the procurator Solon blamed it on the Christians, and began a persecution of them. We know the names and a few details about 8 of these martyrs – Donatian, Flavian, Julian, Lucius, Montanus, Primolus, Rhenus and Victorius. They were beheaded in 259 at Carthage (modern Tunis, Tunisia).
Martyrs of Mesopotamia: A group of Christians Martyred in Mesopotamia in persecutions by imperial Roman authorities. Their names and the details of their lives have not come down to us. They were suffocated over a slow fire in Mesopotamia.
Martyrs of North Africa: A group of 19 Christians Martyred together in the persecutions of the Arian Vandal King Hunneric for refusing to deny the Trinity. We know little more than a few of their names – Dionysius, Julian, Lucius, Paul and Quintian. c
Saint of the Day – 22 May – Saint Romanus of Subiaco (Died c560) Abbot, Hermit and Monk. Protector and benefactor of St Benedict during the latter’s early years as a Hermit. Also known as Romano.
Life of St Benedict, Scene 4: The Monk Romanus Dresses Benedict by Il Sodoma,
The spirituality of the great Saint Benedict, Patron Saint of Europe, originated with a three-year Retreat at the so-called “Sacro Speco” of Subiaco. In this deep, almost inaccessible cave, the young Benedict dedicated himself, body and soul, to a very harsh ascetic practice. However, not everyone knows that it was our Saint Romanus, a Monk near the Lazio village of Subiaco, who dressed the famous Saint of Norcia in the Hermit’s Habit, helped him enter the Sacro Speco and provided him with everything he needed to survive for three long years. All this, however, was done with secrecy, to prevent anyone from suspecting Benedict’s presence in the cave and possibly disturbing his asceticism.
Everyday, Romanus provided the penitent boy with some bread recovered from the canteen of his Monastery, climbing the cliff above the entrance to the cavity, he warned Benedetto of his arrival with a bell and letthe supplies, just as much as was needed, down to him down with a rope.
Legend has it that one day the bell was broken by the devil, enraged by the strong ascetic and charitable virtues which he found in Benedict and Romanus respectively. The latter, however, did not limit himself exclusively to providing the Saint of Norcia with material aid but thanks to his experience and his wisdom, he was able to reveal to him, the secrets of monastic asceticism which proved to be of fundamental importance in the drafting of the Benedictine Rule.
Unfortunately, it is not known with historical certainty whether the two Sints remained in contact even at the end of the three years of collaboration at the Holy Sepulchre of Subiaco. When Saint Benedict finally became famous as Abbot of Monte Cassino, tradition rather leans towards a transfer of Romanus to France, where he did his utmost to found a new Monastery and trained many young Monks. Here, upon his death, he was venerated for his immense spiritual merits which materialised mainly in the inspiration of Saint Benedict in the foundation of the new religious family, which formed the Christian soul of the old continent.
St Boethian of Pierrepont St Castus the Martyr St Conall of Inniscoel Bl Diego de Baja Bl Dionisio Senmartin St Emilius the Martyr St Faustinus the Martyr
St Lupo of Limoges St Marcian of Ravenna Bishop and Confessor St Margaret of Hulme Bl Pedro of the Assumption St Quiteria St Romanus of Subiaco (Died c560) Abbot, Protector and benefactor of St Benedict during the latter’s early years as a Hermit. St Timothy the Martyr St Venustus the Martyr
Rose Petals raining down on Pentecost Sunday in St Mary and the Martyrs (Pantheon), Rome
St Robert Bellarmine SJ (1542-1621) Doctor of the Church, Confessor, Bishop, Priest of the Society of Jesus, Bishop, Confessor, Cardinal, Theologian, Professor, Writer, Preacher, Mediator, Doctor of the Church. Among others patronages, he is the Patron of Catechists and Catechumens. His body is honoured with pious veneration at Rome in the Church of St Ignatius, near the tomb of St Aloysius, as he himself had desired. Blessed be God in His Holy Saints! Amen. He was Beatified on 13 May 1923, Rome by Pope Pius XI and Canonised 29 June 1930, Rome by Pope Pius XI – he was named a Doctor of the Church by the same Pope a year later. He is remembered as one of the most important Cardinals of the Catholic Counter Reformation. Feast Day today. changed in 1969. Biography: https://anastpaul.com/2017/09/17/saint-of-the-day-17-september-st-robert-bellarmine-s-j-doctor-of-the-church/ AND: https://anastpaul.com/2020/10/05/saint-of-the-day-5-october-blessed-raymond-of-capua-op-c-1330-1399/
St Abban of Abingdon (Died c520) Irish Hermit who served the Lord in England, Founded a Monastery. St Agnes of Poitiers
St André-Hubert Fournet (1752-1834) “The Good Father” – Priest and Co-Founder with St Jeanne-Élisabeth Bichier des Ages of the Congregation of the Daughters of the Cross, Apostle of the poor, needy, children and the aged. Until his old age, the Good Father kept an expression of simplicity and humility. In the sun of God’s love, the transfiguration of his being continued in deep holiness, charity, humility and zeal. After the approval of 2 miracles, he was Beatified on 16 May 1926 by Pope Pius XI and Canonised on June 1933 by the same Pope, after a further 2 miracles. About St André-Hubert : https://anastpaul.com/2020/05/13/saint-of-the-day-13-may-saint-andre-hubert-fournet-1752-1834-the-good-father/
St Anno of Verona St Argentea of Cordoba St Euthymius the Illuminator Bl Fortis Gabrielli Bl Gerard of Villamagna Bl Gemma of Goriano St Glyceria of Trajanopolis
St Lucius of Constantinople St Mael of Bardsey Bl Magdalen Albrizzi St Merewenna of Rumsey St Mucius of Byzantium St Natalis of Milan St Onesimus of Soissons St Servatus of Tongres St Valerian of Auxerre
Martyrs of Alexandria: A group of Christians Martyred in the Church of Theonas, Alexandria, Egypt by order of the Arian Emperor Valens. Their names have not come down to us. 372 in Alexandria, Egypt.
Quote/s of the Day – 27 April – St Peter Canisius SJ (1521-1597) Confessor, Doctor of the Church
“These ceremonies which are used in the administration of the Sacraments, each of which we receive, as delivered and entrusted to us through the hands of the fathers, must especially be retained and observed with great devotion.”
“At the mention of this name [the Blessed Virgin Mary], the Angels rejoice and the devils tremble. Through this invocation, sinners obtain grace and pardon.”
St Peter Canisius SJ (1521-1597) – The Known as “The Hammer of Protestantism,” “Second Apostle of Germany” – Confessor, Doctor of the Church, Dutch Priest of the Society of Jesus, Reformer, Teacher, Writer, Apostle of Charity. Patronages – Catholic Press, Germany, Catechists. The restoration of the Catholic Church in Germany after the Protestant Reformation is largely attributed to the work there of the Society of Jesus, which he led. “Peter Canisius was the first publisher, the first author, the first editor of the Society of Jesus. By now, Jesuits have followed in his footsteps to the tune of having published in 400 years, thousands of books. From the time of Canisius, and his name is first in the bibliography of Jesuit writers, from Peter Canisius to the end of the l9th century, that is to 1900, there are about twenty volumes of bibliography, each volume about two inches thick, stands about eighteen inches high, filled just with authors and titles, thousands and thousands and thousands, no other religious institute in the Church publishes as much as members of the Society. It was all started by Peter Canisius.” (Ven Servan of God Fr John A Hardon SJ) His Feast day is 27 April (General Roman Calendar, 1926–1969. Biography: https://anastpaul.com/2017/12/21/saint-of-the-day-21-december-st-peter-canisius-s-j-1521-1397-doctor-of-the-church/ AND: https://anastpaul.com/2018/12/21/saint-of-the-day-21-december-st-peter-canisius-s-j-1521-1397-the-second-apostle-of-germany-doctor-of-the-church/
St Adelelmus of Le Mans St Asicus of Elphin St Castor of Tarsus St Enoder St Floribert of Liege
Blessed Jakov Varingez OFM (c 1400–1496) Croatian professed religious of the Order of Friars Minor, Apostle of charity, Mystic with a great devotion to the Cross of Christ, Marian devotee, he was noted as a miracle worker and levitated. He was Beatified on 29 December 1700 by Pope Clement XIH.His body is incorrupt. His Life: https://anastpaul.com/2019/04/27/saint-of-the-day-27-april-blessed-jakov-varingez-ofm-c-1400-1496/
St Peter Armengol OdeM (c 1238-1304) “The Martyr who Wasn’t,” “The Unconquerable Martyr of Jesus Christ,” “The Gangster Saint,”Spanish Priest of the Mercedarian Friars, Penitent, Mystic. Beatified on 28 March 1686, by Pope Innocent XI and Canonised on 8 April 1687, by the same Pope. His body was incorrupt until it was destroyed during the horrors of the Spanish Civil War. A Miraculous Life: https://anastpaul.com/2022/04/27/saint-of-the-day-27-april-saint-peter-armengol-odem-c-1238-1304-the-martyr-who-wasnt/
St Pollio of Cybalae St Simeon of Jerusalem St Stephen of Tarsus St Tertullian of Bologna St Theophilus of Brescia St Winewald of Beverley
St Zita of Lucca (1212-1272) Virgin, Laywoman, Apostle of the Poor. – Her reputation was such that Dante in the Inferno referred to the City of Luccam, her birthplace and home, as “Santa Zita.” Patronages – housewives, butlers, housemaid, domestic servants (proclaimed by Pope Pius XII), housemaid, eys, manservants, people ridiculed for their piety, rape victims, servers, single laywomen, waiters, Lucca, Italy. Her body is incorrupt. Biography:. https://anastpaul.wordpress.com/2017/04/27/saint-of-the-day-27-april-st-zita-of-lucca/
Martyrs of Nicomedia: A group of Christians murdered together for their faith. In most cases all we have are their names – Dioscurus, Evanthia, Felicia, Felix, Germana, Germelina, Johannes, Julius, Laetissima, Nikeforus, Papias, Serapion and Victorinus. They died at Nicomedia, Bithynia, Asia Minor (modern Izmit, Turkey).
Saint of the Day – 26 April – St Clarence of Venice (12th Century) Bishop and Confessor, a diligent and committed Apostle of the poor, the sick, the outcasts, founding Hospitals and Schools for their care. Clarence was renowned for his great wisdom, piety and humility and his exceptional administrative abilities and for his many miracles. Also known as – Clareno, Chiarenzio. Great confusion exists regarding our Saint today. He is most commonly confused with St Clarentius of Vienne who was celebrated yesterday, 25 April. The information below is not confirmed anywhere, unfortunately, nor am I able to find an image of our Saint.
St Mark’s Basilica in Venice
Although not much is known about his early life, it is believed that Clarence was born in the 12th Century in Italy and devoted his entire life to the service of God and his people.
He studied and was Ordained at a young age and quickly rose through the ranks due to his exceptional leadership qualities and commitment to preaching the Gospel. His devotion to his faith and the well-being and growth in sanctity of his flock, made him a beloved figure, both within the clergy and among the faithful.
As the Bishop of Venice, Clarence played a crucial role in the spiritual and moral development of the City. His pastoral efforts focused on promoting unity among the faithful and fostering a deep understanding of the importance of faith in their daily lives. He set an example of virtuous living and tirelessly preached the Gospel to his congregation, inspiring them to lead lives rooted in love, compassion and devotion.
Known for his exceptional administrative abilities, Clarence worked towards the improvement of the Diocese by establishing schools, hospitals and other charitable institutions. Under his guidance, the Church in Venice flourished and became a centre of learning and holiness.
Throughout his life, Clarence emphasised the importance of almsgiving and the care of the needy and less fortunate. He dedicated himself to serving the poor, the sick and the oppressed, tirelessly offering them support, hope and solace. His efforts to alleviate the suffering of others made him a true champion of the suffering and gained him great reverence among the people.
Clarence’s spiritual influence extended well beyond the confines of Venice. People from far and wide sought his counsel and his intercession. Known for his miracles and the extraordinary power of his prayers, he became widely recognised as a man of great holiness and virtue.
Saint Clarence of Venice on 26 April, leaving behind a legacy of devotion, humility and great love for his neighbour. His selfless and unwavering dedication to God and his people, earned him a special place in the hearts of the faithful. While Saint Clarence of Venice does not have any specific patronage attributed to him, he continues to be remembered and venerated by the faithful as a model of Christian virtue and a source of inspiration for all those who aspire to a life of holiness. His feast day is celebrated today 26 April, serving as a reminder of his legacy and the enduring impact he made on the Church and the world.
St Pope Marcellinus (Died 304) Martyr, Bishop of Rome from 30 June 296 to his death in 304. The Roman Martyrology reads: “In the same City [Rome], in the time of Maximian, St Marcellinus, Pope and Martyr, who was beheaded for the Faith of Christ, with Claudius, Cyrinus and Antoninus. So great was the persecution at this time that, within a month, seventeen thousand Christians were crowned with Martyrdom.” His Life and Death: https://anastpaul.com/2023/04/26/saint-of-the-day-26-april-saint-pope-marcellinus-died-304-martyr/
Bl Alda of Siena St Antoninus of Rome St Basileus of Amasea (Died c319) Martyr Bishop St Clarence of Venice (12th Century) Bishop and Confessor St Claudius of Rome St Cyrinus of Rome St Exuerantia of Troyes Bl Gregory of Besians St Lucidius of Verona Bishop
Saint of the Day – 25 April – Saint Franca Visalta O.Cist. (1170-1218) Virgin Abbess in Piacenza and Pittolo, Foundress of a Cistercian Convent. Born in 1170 in Piacenza, Italy and died on 25 April 1218 in Pittoli, Italy of natural causes. Also known as – Franca of Piacenza, Francesca da Vitalta.
Franca was born into the Visalta family in Piacenza in Italy in the 12th Century. Even before her 7th year, she began to develop her beautiful virtues and soon expressed to her parents her desire to devote herself to God wholeheartedly in the Monastery. She was, therefore, taken in by the Benedictine nuns of St Syri in Piacenza, where she received her education.
At the age of 14 she entered the same Convent as a Novice. There she became a lamp of all virtues for her fellow sisters and in the wounds of her divine Saviour she found her most blissful consolations. In 1206 she mediated between her hometown and Pope Innocent III and by her efforts, peace was restored. After the death of the Abbess, Franca was unanimously elected by her fellow sisters, who were around fifty in number, to be their Abbess. In this capacity she sought to promote godliness in every possible way, especially the spirit of mortification which is said to be the first adornment of a monastic community. In order to achieve this goal, however, she had to endure great difficulties and was finally removed from her office..
Nevertheless, one of the Nuns, Sister Carentia, agreed with her discipline. When Sr Carentia left St Syri Convent and entered the Cistercian Novitiate at Rapallo. Around the year 1216, Franca convinced her parents to build a Cistercian house at Montelana. There, she became the Abbess of the community at of Santa Maria di Montelana and Sr Carentia joined her there and was appointed as the Prioress. The community later moved to Pittoli.
Sanctuary of St Franca built in the 19th Century on the site of the former Monastery of Santa Maria di Montelana. Montelana used to be the name of the mountain on which the Monastery stood.
Franca consistently maintained the severe penances she imposed on herself, even in the face of poor health. She spent most nights in the chapel, praying for hours.
She died in this Abbey on St Mark’s Day 1218. Her Relics were later translated to Piacenza where they are today, in the Church of San Raimondo.
Relics of St Franca at the Church of St Raimondo
Franca was Beatified on 21 March 1273 by Pope Gregory X and Canonised by Pope Paul V in the early part 17th Century.
St Anianus of Alexandria (Died c 86) 2nd Bishop of Alexandria, after St Mark and succeeding him. Consecrated by St Mark and disciple of St Mark. He was Ordained by Saint Mark and was also the first convert Mark won for Christ in the region, in c 48. As St Mark was entering Rakotis, a suburb of Alexandria, the strap of his sandal broke. He found a cobbler, St Anianus, to repair it. While he was working on the sandal, the awl slipped in Anianus’ hand, piercing it. Anianus cried ‘“Heis ho Theos” (“God is one”) in response to the pain. Mark took the opportunity to preach the Gospel of Christ to him, at the same time. https://anastpaul.com/2021/04/25/saint-of-the-day-25-april-st-anianus-of-alexandria-died-c-86-sucessor-and-disciple-of-st-mark-the-evangelist/
St Callista of Syracuse St Clarentius of Vienne St Erminus of Lobbes (Died 737) Bishop and Confessor St Evodius of Syracuse Saint Franca Visalta O.Cist. (1170-1218) Virgin Abbess St Heribaldus of Auxerre St Hermogenes of Syracuse St Kebius St Macaille St Macedonius St Mario Borzaga St Pasicrate of Mesia St Phaebadius of Agen St Philo of Antioch St Robert of Syracuse Bl Robert Anderton Stefano of Antioch St Valenzio of Mesia Bl William Marsden
Saint of the Day – 23 April – St Ives of Huntingdonshire (6th-7th Century) Bishop, Missionary. Born in the 6th Century in Persia and died in Huntingdonshire (now Cambridgeshire) England of natural causes. Also known as – Ivo of Ramsey, Ive… Ives… Ivia… Yves. Additional Memorial – 10 June in St Ives.
Ives was born in the 6th Century, in Persia, of a noble family and became a Missionary and then the Bishop of Huntingdon in England.
He dedicated himself to itinerant preaching, on the model of St Paul the Apostle, first in Asia Minor and in Illyria (historical region of the Balkan Peninsula which became a Roman Province in 228).
On his travels, he passed through Rome and from there he arrived in France where he had great success, honoured by the King, the nobles and the people; perhaps from him the name Ives (Yves) began to establish itself more in France.
But Ives, wanting to refuse all the honours paid to him for his evident sanctity, went with three companions to England, where he worked fruitfully for several years in Mercia (one of the seven Kingdoms, founded by the Anglo-Saxons in the second half of 5th Century) finally establishing his residence in the City of Sleve, now St Ives, three miles from Huntingdon. It seems he was appointed as the Bishop although it is uncertain when. After several years of his pastoral apostolate among those populations, he died at the beginning of the 7th Century.
His Relics were miraculously discovered in 1001 and transferred to the Benedictine Abbey of Ramsey, the new name of Huntingdon his ‘Life’ from which subsequent biographies arose, was written by the Monk Goscelin of Westminster in 1091 on behalf of Abbot Erebert. His celebration is on 24 April and 10 June.
St Fidelis of Sigmaringen OFM Cap (1577-1622) Priest of the Capuchins of the Friar’s Minor and Martyr, Lawyer, Philosopher, Teacher, Apostle of Eucharistic Adoration and charity Known as “The Poor Man’s Lawyer” St Fidelis was Beatified on 24 March 1729 by Pope Benedict XIII and Canonised on 29 June 1746, Rome by Pope Benedict XIV His Life and Death: https://anastpaul.wordpress.com/2017/04/24/saint-of-the-day-24-april-st-fidelis-of-sigmaringen/
St Alexander of Lyon St Anthimos of Nicomedia St Authairius of La Ferté St Bova of Rheims St Deodatus of Blois St Diarmaid of Armagh St Doda of Rheims St Dyfnan of Anglesey
St Egbert (c639-c729) Confessor, Priest, Monk, Reformer, Missionary, Teacher. The Roman Martyrology reads: “On the Island of Iona in Scotland, Saint Egbert, Priest and Monk, who worked with dedication for the evangelisation of many regions of Europe and, now, advanced in years, reconciled the Monks of Iona, with the use Roman of the Paschal Rectum, celebrating his eternal Easter, immediately after having officiated its Solemnity.” Biography: https://anastpaul.com/2023/04/24/saint-of-the-day-24-april-st-egbert-c639-c729-confessor-priest/
St Eusebius of Lydda St Gregory of Elvira Bishop and Confessor St Honorius of Brescia Bishop St Ives of Huntingdonshire (6th-7th Century) Bishop St Leontius of Lydda St Longinus of Lydda
St Mary Euphrasia Pelletier (1796-1868) Nun, Foundress of the Congregation of Our Lady of Charity of the Good Shepherd. Patronages – Good Shepherd Sisters, travellers. On 11 December 1897, Pope Leo XIII declared her “Venerable.” She was Beatified on 30 April 1933 and Canonised on 2 May 1940 by Venerable Pope Pius XII. About St Mary Euphrasia: https://anastpaul.wordpress.com/2018/04/24/saint-of-the-day-24-april-st-mary-euphrasia-pelletier-1796-1868/
Saint of the Day – 23 April – Blessed Giles of Assisi OFM (c1190-1262) Friar and Missionary of the Order of Friars Minor, Friend and the 3rd follower of St Francis. Giles held a leading place among the original Franciscans and St Francis called him “The Knight of our Round Table.” Giles was unlearned but a man of great wisdom, so much so, that all social classes came to learn aat his feet., he was a Mystic and man of deep contemplation and prayer. Born in c1190 in Assisi, Umbria, Papal States (in modern Italy) and died on 23 April 1262 at Perugia, Italy of natural causes. Also known as – Aegidius, Egidius.
Of Giles’ origins and early life nothing certain is known, other than that he was a simple farmer. In April, 1209, moved by the example of two leading fellow-Assisians and friends, who had already become the first followers of St Francis, he begged permission to join the little band and on the Feast of St George was invested in a poor religious habit which Francis had begged for him. Almost immediately afterwards he set out with Francis to preach in the Marches of Ancona. He accompanied Francis to Rome when the first Rule was orally approved by Pope Innocent III and appears to have then received the monastic tonsure.
Pope Innocent III approves the first Rule
About 1212 Giles made a pilgrimage to the Tomb of St James at Compostella, in Spain. Shortly after his return to Assisi, he started for Jerusalem, to venerate the Holy Places, visiting on his way home, the Italian Shrines of St Michael, at Monte Gargano and St Nicholas, at Bari. He is next found in Rome and still later at Tunis.
In these journeys, Giles was always at pains to procure, by manual labour, what food and shelter he needed. At Ancona he made reed baskets; at Brindisi he carried water and helped to bury the dead; at Rome he cut wood, trod the wine-press and gathered nuts; while the guest of a Cardinal at Rieti, he insisted on sweeping the house and cleaning the knives. He said: “Happiness is to do bodily labour for the love of the Most High and not to take any lesser wages than Paradise, for the good work one does.”
During the course of these travels, Giles, a keen observer of people and events, acquired much valuable knowledge and experience which he turned to good account. He took every opportunity to preach the Gospel. His sermons were brief and heartfelt, replete with homely wisdom. He never eluded truth and spoke to all, with the same love.
After some years of missionary activity, included a period amongst the Muslims in Tunis, Giles was assigned by Francis to the Hermitage of Monteripido, outside Perugia, where he began a life of contemplation and ecstasy which continued until his death.
Giles was a stranger to theological and classical learning but engaged in constant contemplation of heavenly things. Men of all social classes were drawn to Perugia to hear Giles teach. The answers and advice these visitors received were remembered, talked over and committed to writing and thus was formed a collection of the familiar ‘Dicta’ or ‘Sayings’ of Giles. St Bonaventure held these ‘Sayings’ in high esteem and they are cited in the works of many subsequent ascetical writers. They are short, pithy, popular counsels on Christian perfection, applicable to all classes. Known for their mysticism, humanity and originality, they faithfully reflect the early Franciscan spirit and teaching.
It was in 1262, on the 52nd Anniversary of his reception into the Order of Friars Minor that this Blessed Giles died, already revered as a Saint. His immemorial cultus was confirmed by Pope Pius VI in 1777 and his Feast Day is celebrated today, the 23rd of April.
Blessed Giles before Pope Gregory IX by Bartolomé Estéban Murillo
Bl essed Giles of Assisi OFM (c1190-1262) Friar and Missionary of the Order of Friars Minor, Friend and the 3rd follower of St Francis.
Bl Giles of Saumur
St Giorgio di Suelli (Died 1117) Italian Bishop of Suelli, Apostle of the poor, Miracle-worker. For the Diocese he was a true shepherd, a lover of the poor whom he helped and of whom he had a list. He was devoted to prayer and fasting and lived a life of penitence and poverty. Biography: https://anastpaul.com/2021/04/23/saint-of-the-day-23-april-saint-giorgio-di-suelli-died-1117/
St Ibar of Meath St Marolus of Milan St Pusinna of Champagne
Martyrs of Africa: A group of Christians murdered for their faith in northern Africa. Little information has survived but their names. The ones we know are – Catulinus, Chorus, Faustinus, Felicis, Felix, Nabors, Plenus, Salunus, Saturninus, Silvius, Solutus, Theodora, Theodorus, Theon, Ursus, Valerius, Venustus, Victorinus, Victurus, Vitalis.
Saint of the Day – 22 April – Blessed Wolfhelm of Brauweiler (c1020-1091) Abbot of Brauweiler Abbey, near Cologne, Theologian, Writer, Defender of the Doctrine of the Church and of the property of the Church, Miracle-worker. Born in c1020 in the Lower Rhineland (in modern Germany and died on 22 April 1091 at his Monastery of natural causes. Also known as – Wolfelmi Brunwilarensis, Wulfhelm… Wolphelmus… Name means: “the one who protects against the wolf” (Old High German). His sister Bertha, was a Nun of Vilich Abbey, who wrote a Vita of the Abbess Adelheid.
Wolfhelm was the son of a noble family from the Lower Rhine, He received his education at the Cathedral school in Cologne under Archbishop St Heribert(c970-1021) and then worked there as a teacher.
In Trier in 1036, Wolfhelm entered the Benedictine order in what was then the reform Monastery of St Maximinus. He later relocated to the Monastery in Gladbach – today’s Mönchengladbach – which was subordinate to his uncle, Abbot Heinrich of St Pantaleon in Cologne.
In 1065 he became the 3rd Abbot in Brauweiler. Wolfhelm wrote theological writings, for example in the Sacrament dispute against Berengar of Tours, who questioned the Doctrine of transubstantiation , and he campaigned emphatically for Church buildings and Monastery properties, especially the large Klotten estate on the Moselle River which was disputed between his own Monastery and the Archdiocese of Cologne. By his extreme difficult efforts, he managed to secure this inheritance from Queen Richeza for his Monastery of Brauweiler.
Even during his lifetime, numerous miracles were associated with his person. Around 1115, the Monk Konrad von Brauweiler wrote a life story with the aim of achieving Wolfhelm’s Canonisation.
Saint of the Day – 21 April – Saint Wolbodó of Liège (c950-1021) Bishop, Chaplain to the Emperor, supporter of Monasteries and the Founder of the Monastery of St Lawrence, which became his heir and where he is buried. Born in c950 in Flanders, Belgium and died on 21 April 1021 in Liège, Belgium of natural causes. Patronage – of Students. Also known as – Fulmodo, Vilpodo, Volbodo, Wolbodon.
His biography, although sparse in detail, tells us of a man of noble Flemish lineage, whose education at the Cathedral school of Utrecht, where he became a Canon, a Professor and finally led him to assume the role of Dean of the Cathedral of Saint Martin and, later, of Chaplain to the Court of Henry II.
Appointed as the Bishop of Liège in 1018 and in November of that year he was Consecrated Bishop by St Heribert of Cologne, assisted by Bishop Gerard of Cambrai, in the presence of Emperor Henry II. He led the Diocese with wisdom and devotion until 1021, the year of his death. He was responsible for the foundation of the Abbey of St Lawrence in Liège, testimony to his religious fervour and his commitment to the spread of the cult of the Saints.
St Lawrence Abbey Church
He named Olbert of Gamblou, as head of the Abbey of St James in Liège and in 1020 deposed Ingobrand as the Abbot of Lobbes Abbey, replacing him with Richard of Saint-Vanne. In 1020 he also installed St Poppo, the Prior of the Abbey of Saint-Vaast in Cambrai, as the Abbot of Stavelot Abbey.
In the official recorded listing of the Bishops, Wolbodó appears after Baldéric de Looz and before Durand.
Wolbodó bequeathed his moveables, 300 Marks of silver and his lands in Flanders, to the Abbey of St Lawrence, Liège and was buried in the Abbey’s Crypt which, at the time, was still under construction. In 1656 his tomb was opened and his remains reburied.
Saint Wolbodó is considered the Patron Saint of Students. In Delft, Holland, the Student Society, Menschen Vereeniging Wolbodó, is named after him.
St Conrad of Parzham OFM Cap (1818-1894) Franciscan Religious Lay Friar, Devotee of Blessed Sacrament and Marian, Apostle of Charity, Miracle worker with the charism of prophecy. His heroic virtues and the miracles he performed won for him the distinction to be ranked among the Blessed by Pope Pius XI in 1930. Four years later, the same pope, approving additional miracles which had been performed, solemnly inscribed his name in the list of Saints. Biography: https://anastpaul.com/2018/04/21/saint-of-the-day-21-april-st-conrad-of-parzham-ofm-cap-1818-1894/
St Crotates of Nicomedia St Cyprian of Brescia St Felix of Alexandria St Fortunatus of Alexandria St Frodulphus St Isacius of Nicomedia St Maelrubba of Applecross
St Silvius of Alexandria St Simeon of Ctesiphon St Vitalis of Alexandria Bl Vitaliy Bayrak St Wolbodó of Liège (c950-1021) Bishop
Saint of the Day – 20 April – Saint Peter Caedwalla of Wessex (c658-689) Layman, King of Wessex. Venerable St Bede wrote of him in his Ecclesiastical History of the English People. Born in c658 in Wessex, England and died on 20 April 689 at Rome, Italy. Reign as King of Wessex, 685–688, when he abdicated. Patronages – of converts, of reformed murderers. Also known as – Caedwalla of Wales, Cadwallader, Cadwallador, Cadwalla… Cadwallon… Ceadwalla… Cedualla… Peter Caedwalla.
From St Bede’s Ecclesiastical History of the English People, we learn that Caedwalla was a nobleman of the West Saxons, exiled from his Country as a youth, who returned with an army and killed the reigning Monarch. After much plunder and bloodshed, he became the new King.
Caedwalla then conquered the pagan Isle of Wight and did his best to exterminate all the natives and replace them with settlers from his own region, although Bede states that the natives remained a majority on the island.Although not yet Baptised, Caedwalla is said to have vowed that, should he conquer the Island, he would give a quarter of all the land and his spoils to the God of the Christians. This promise was honoured when he gave the promised bounty to Bishop Wilfrid. Wilfrid appointed a Priest to preach on the Island and to Baptise all who wished to convert to the Christian Faith.
When Cædwalla first attacked the South Saxons, Wilfrid was at the court of King Æthelwealh and on Æthelwealh’s death, Wilfrid attached himself to Cædwalla. The Life of Wilfrid records that Cædwalla sought Wilfrid out as a spiritual father.
This stained glass window (above) can be seen in the south aisle of St Mary’s Church in Ryde. It was designed and installed by the Victorian Catholic artist, Nathaniel Westlake in 1882. It depicts St. Wilfrid, having landed on the Isle of Wight in 686, with Benedictine Monks, seeking permission from Caedwalla to preach the Gospel. Being granted permission and given land on the Island, St Wilfrid and his followers, built the Island’s first (wooden) Church at Brading, on the site of the present Church of St Mary the Virgin. Hence, it could be said that our St Peter Caedwalla was the first Isle of Wight Saint. (St Wilfred: https://anastpaul.com/2018/10/12/saint-of-the-day-12-october-st-wilfrid-c-633-709/).
Two young Princes, brothers of the former King, when Caedwalla invaded the Island, escaped across the Solent. They were eventually betrayed, however and ordered to be put to death. Caedwalla, at this time, was living in seclusion while he recovered from wounds received while fighting on the Isle of Wight. The Abbot of Redbridge petitioned him to allow the young Princes to receive instruction in the Christian Faith and to receive Baptism before their execution. Caedwalla consented to this request and they were duly instructed, Baptised and then executed.
In 688 Caedwalla, after governing the people of Wessex “most ably” for two years, abdicated his throne and went on pilgrimage to Rome, where he hoped to receive Baptism. He arrived in Rome during the Pontificate of Pope Sergius and was Baptised by him (and given the name of Peter on account of his devotion to the Apostle, which had inspired his pilgrimage).
On Holy Saturday 689, Peter Caedwalla fell ill while “still wearing his white robes” that is, during Easter Week when the newly Baptised were wearing the white garment received by them as a sign of their purification from sin. He died on 20 April that year and was buried in St Peter’s. The Pope directed that an Epitaph be inscribed on his tomb to preserve his memory and devotion. It was composed by the Archbishop of Milan and is given in full by St Bede. The stone was discovered in the 16th Century when the Basilica of St Peter was being rebuilt. A s 16th Century mural in Chichester Cathedral depicts St Peter Caedwalla giving land to St Wilfrid, see below.
A 16th Century Mural by Lambert Barnard in Chichester Cathedral, depicting Saint Peter Cædwalla granting land to Saint Wilfrid.
St Peter Caedwalla of Wessex (c658-689) Layman, King of Wessex. Venerable St Bede wrote of him in his History of the English Church. Bl Catwallon St Domninus of Digne Bl Gerald of Salles Bl Harduin
Blessed Hildegun of Schönau O.Cist. (Died 1188) Virgin, Cistercian Monk – yes! she was disguised as a boy as a child, for her own safety and after many frightening trials, decided to retain the identity in order to enter the Cistercian Monastery as Brother Joseph. Her true identity remained a secret until her death. Or Brother Joseph!: https://anastpaul.com/2023/04/20/saint-of-the-day-20-april-blessed-hildegun-of-schonau-died-1188-virgin/
St Marcian of Auxerre St Margaret of Amelia Bl Maurice MacKenraghty St Michel Coquelet Bl Oda of Rivreulle St Sara of Antioch St Secundinus of Córdoba St Servilian
Blessed Simon Rinalducci OSA (Died 1322) Priest, Friar of the Order of the Hermits of St Augustine, noted for his theological studies, Prior of several houses, renowned Preader, Miracle-worker. Blessed Simon was a model of humility and obedience, even in the face of great trials and obvious injustices. Simon was Beatified on 19 March 1833 by Pope Gregory XVI (cultus confirmed). His Life: https://anastpaul.com/2021/04/20/saint-of-the-day-blessed-simon-rinalducci-osa-died-1322/
St Sulpicius St Theodore Trichinas St Theotimus of Tomi St Vincent of Digne St Wiho of Osnabrück
Saint of the Day – 19 April – Saint Gerold of Saxony (c900-c978) Hermit. … Born in in Rhaetia, in the lower part of the Alps (part of modern Austria/Switzerland) and died on 16 April 978 of natural causes in Frisun, today the Town of St Gerold. Also known as – Gerold Graziato, Gerold of Einsiedeln, Gerold of Großwalsertal, Gerold of Grosswalsertal, Gerold of Vorarlberg, Adam… Geroldus…
On 1 January 949, Otto I returned to a certain Adam, involved in a conspiracy against the Sovereign and deprived him of his assets by judicial sentence, his possession which was located in present-day Vorarlberg. Otto calls Adam “vir Dei” in his act of 949 which allows us to deduce that this Adam, had consecrated himself to the service of God.
However, he is not designated as a Monk and, in Einsiedeln, tradition has never considered him such. The Einsiedeln Calendar does indeed name an Adam on 16 April but without defining him as a Monk. The tradition traced by the dean Albrecht von Bonstetten in 1494, narrates that the proscribed Adam took refuge in the solitude of the Wals Valley, where – in order not to be recognised – he lived under the name of Gerold Graziato, remained in solitude.
He donated his possessions to the Monastery of Einsiedeln and died around the year 978. The day of his death is placed on different dates. The obituary notices of Einsiedeln from the 10th Century, however, have an Adam on 16 April and the book of the anniversaries of Saint Gerold, dated to the 15th Century, indicates 19 April as the day on which his Feast is still celebrated today.
The place where Adam-Gerold lived, first called Frisun, appears in 1340 for the first time under the name of St Gerold. In Einsiedeln, the festival is celebrated on 19 April only after the exhumation of his bones which took place in 1663 and his Tomb is today preserved in the Monastery. When, in 1378, the suffragan Bishop of Chur consecrated the Altar of Saint Catherine to Saint Gerold, he granted an Indulgence for 4 June on the occasion of the commemoration of the blessed Gerolde – this proves that he was already venerated as a Saint then.
According to the tradition which makes Adam a Duke of Saxony (presumably because there is confusion with the old noble family of Sax, originally from Vorarlberg), he had two sons, Cuno (or also Chamo) and Ulrich (also called Henry), who by order of their father, became Monks of Einsiedeln. Cuno must have been dean and Ulrich custodian. After their father’s death, they both went to Frisun, where they died. Ulrich would have been buried in the provost’s Church, next to his father and Cuno in the Chapel of Saint Anthony ,next to the Church. However, there is no certain information about the two. In the Monastery, they were both venerated later (17th Century) as Blesseds, the Feast of Blessed Cuno on 8 March and that of Blessed Ulrich on 29 April.
Saint Gerold is depicted as a pilgrim with a hat and staff, sometimes even with a donkey because the Saint vowed to settle where the donkey carrying all his possessions would kneel. Sometimes he is represented with a bear, who helped him in the construction of his cell. A cycle of paintings created around 1683, depicting the life of the Saint, is found in the Church of Frisun, while the painting of the main Altar (by Rodolfo Blaettler, 1877) shows him with his two sons.
Statues in the provost’s house show the two sons as Monks and a 17th Century fresco in the Chapel of Saint Anthony represents the Blessed Cuno. Below is the Priory of St Gerold where these Statues reside although I can find no images of them.
St Apollonius the Priest St Aristonicus of Melitene
Blessed Bernard of Sithiu (Died 1182) Penitent, Pilgrim, Hermit. Patronages – of sinners, convicts, prisoners, penitents, pilgrims. The Roman Martyrology: “At the Monastery of Saint-Bertin in the territory of France in Thérouanne, lies the tomb of Blessed Bernard, penitent, who, eager to atone for the sins of his youth with an austere penitence, voluntarily chose exile and, barefooted, wearing rough garments, was a tireless pilgrim to the holy places.” Dear Blessed Bernard, pray for us!: https://anastpaul.com/2023/04/19/saint-of-the-day-19-april-blessed-bernard-of-sithiu-died-1182-layman-penitent/
Our dear Martyr and protector, Saint Expeditus, You who know what is necessary and what is urgently needed. I beg you to intercede before the Blessed Trinity that by your intercession, my request will be granted. …………………… (Clearly express your needs and ask him to find a way to help you.) May I receive your blessings and favours. Through our Lord Jesus Christ, in the unity of the Holy Ghost, One God with the Almighty Father. Amen.
If Saint Expeditus grants your request, place an advertisement in the local Catholic newspaper and/or your Parish Bulletin or Notice Board, thanking Saint Expeditus, so that his name and fame will grow
St Gaius of Melitene St Galata of Melitene St George of Antioch St Gerold of Saxony (c900-c978)Hermit
St Pope Leo IX (1002-1054) known as “Apostolic Pilgrim” When the German Pope Damasus II died in 1048, Bishop Bruno was selected by the Emperor, Henry III, to succeed him. Bruno agreed to go to Rome and to accept the Papacy if freely elected thereto by the Roman people. He wished, at least, to rescue the See of Peter from its servitude to the German Emperors. When, in company with Hildebrand he reached Rome and presented himself to its people clad in pilgrim’s guise and barefooted but still tall and fair to look upon, they cried out with one voice that him and no other would they have as Pope. Assuming the name of Leo, he was solemnly enthronedon 12 February, 1049. Biography: https://anastpaul.wordpress.com/2018/04/19/saint-of-the-day-19-april-st-pope-leo-ix-1002-1954/
St Martha of Persia St Rufus of Melitene St Vincent of Collioure
Martyrs of Carthage – 17 Saints: A group of Christians Martyred in the persecutions of Decius. We know little more than the names – Aristo, Basso, Credula, Donato, Ereda, Eremio, Fermo, Fortunata, Fortunio, Frutto, Julia, Mappalicus, Martial, Paul, Venusto, Victorinus and Victor. Died in the year 250 in prison in Carthage, North Africa (modern Tunis, Tunisia).
Saint of the Day – 18 April – Saint Galdinus della Sala of Milan (c1096-1176) Cardinal ArchBishop of Milan from 1166 until his death in 1176., Born in c1096 at Milan, Italy and died on 18 April 1176 at Milan, Italy of natural causes. Patronages – of the Archdiocese of Milan and of Lombardy. Galdinus was Canonised by Pope Alexander III. Also known as – Galdini, Galdimus, Galdin, Galdino.
The Roman Martyrology reads today: “At Milan, St Galdini, Cardinal and Bishop of the City, who, at the conclusion of a discourse against heretics, gave up his soul to God.”
Galdinus was the son of the noble della Sala family of Milan and from his childhood, he was educated for the Ecclesiastical life. He received Sacred Orders after occupying various important positions and became the Chancellor of the Church in Milan.
In 1165, Pope Alexander III honoured him with the Title of Cardinal in the Consistory of 15 December as the Cardinal Priest of the Titular Church of Santa Sabina and, a year later, made him the Archbishop of Milan.
One of his first aims was to destroy the schism created by partisans of the antipope, “pope” Victor IV favoured by Emperor Frederick Barbarossa and bring them to recognise the legitimate Pontiff Alexander III. In this mission, he skillfully employed the diplomatic gifts he had learned.
Galdinus was very humble, even after reaching this elevated position. He was known for his sweetness and goodness, welcoming all as equals, except in the case of defending his position, when he was an example of fortitude and vigour.
At that time, the Cathars from Cologne were spreading their errors throughout Lombardy and the area of Milan. Galdinus zealously strove to uproot those heresies. His constant preaching and efforts weakened him and his physical strength waned.
In 1176, the Sunday after conducting the Easter ceremonies, he went to the Altar of St Tecla in Milan Cathedral to celebrate Mass but found himself too weak to do so. Nonetheless, at the sermon, he went to the pulpit and delivered a long and vehement discourse refuting the heresies and infamies of the Cathars with greater vigour and virulence than ever. As he finished, he fainted and lost consciousness. He died as the Mass ended, whose Gospel had been that of the Good Shepherd.
AnaStpaul 
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