Quote/s of the Day – 17 May – The Memorial of St Paschal Baylon OFM (1540-1592) Confessor, “Seraph of the Eucharist,” “Saint of the Blessed Sacrament,” “Servant of the Blessed Sacrament.” Franciscan Lay Brother.
“Meditate well on this – Seek God above all things! It is right for you to seek God, before and above, everything else because the Majesty of God wishes you to receive what you ask for. This will also make you more ready to serve God and will enable you to love Him more perfectly.”
Saint of the Day – 17 May – St Bruno of Würzburg (c1005-1045) Bishop and Confessor, Prince, Imperial Chancellor of Italy from 1027 to 1034.
Bruno, son of Conrad I of Carinthia and cousin of Emperor Conrad II, was probably educated in Salzburg. He was a member of the Royal Chapel, the Imperial Chancellor of Italy and an intimate adviser of Conrad II and Emperor Henry III, before being elected Bishop of Würzburg. He also accompanied Henry on his second Hungarian Campaign.
Bruno rebuilt the existing Cathedral, constructed many new churches and improved education, to which purpose he composed a well-known exegesis on the Psalms to which he appended an analysis of ten Biblical hymns, consisting of extracts from the writings of the Church Fathers. Under his direction the Cathedral school flourished.
In 1040 Bruno began the construction of Würzburg Cathedral. The Consecration of the Cathedral on 16 June 1045 was combined with his burial. Bruno died accidentally, en route to Hungary with Henry III and was buried in Würzburg Cathedral crypt. Below is the interior and exterior of the Cathedral.
His cult spread in Germany, and though never formally Canonised, he appears in the Roman Martyrology of 1616.
St Madron of Cornwall St Maildulf of Malmesbury St Maw
St Paul of Noviodunum Bl Peter Lieou St Rasso of Grafrath St Restituta of Carthage St Silaus of Lucca St Solochanus of Chalcedon St Thethmar St Victor Roma
Martyrs of Alexandria – 3 Saints: Three Christians Martyred together; no details about them have survived except their names: Adrio, Basilla and Victor. 4th century Alexandria, Egypt.
Martyrs of Nyon: A group of Christians Martyred together in the persecutions of Diocletian. We know little more than three of their names: Aquilinus, Heradius and Paul. 303 at Noyon, Switzerland.
Quote/s of the Day –30 April – Prayers by St Catherine of Siena (1347-1380)
O God of Truth and Love
O omnipotent Father, God of truth, God of love permit me to enter into the cell of self-knowledge. I admit, that of myself, I am nothing but that all being and goodness in me comes solely from You. Show me my faults, that I may detest them, and thus I shall flee from self-love and find myself clothed again in the nuptial robe of divine charity, which I must have, in order to be admitted to the nuptials of life eternal. Amen
Holy Trinity, Holy Love
Holy Spirit, come into my heart; draw it to Thee by Thy power, O my God, and grant me charity with filial fear. Preserve me, O beautiful love, from every evil thought, warm me, inflame me with Thy dear love and every pain will seem light to me. My Father, my sweet Lord, help me in all my actions. Jesus, love, Jesus, love. Amen.
Your Blood, The Fire of Love!
O sweet Jesus, my Love, to strengthen my soul and to rescue it from the weakness into which it has fallen, You have built a wall around it and have mixed the mortar with Your Blood, confirming my soul and uniting it to the sweet will and charity of God! Just as lime mixed with water is placed between stones, to cement them together, so You, O God, have placed between Your creature and Yourself, the Blood of Your Only-begotten Son, cemented with the Divine lime of the fire of ardent charity, in such a way that there is no Blood without fire, nor fire without Blood. Your Blood was shed, O Christ, by the fire of love! Amen
Constant Prayer to the Precious Blood of Jesus
Precious Blood, Ocean of Divine Mercy, Flow upon us! Precious Blood, Most Pure Offering, Procure us every grace! Precious Blood, Hope and Refuge of sinners, Atone for us! Precious Blood, Delight of holy souls, Draw us! Amen
Saint of the Day – 30 April – St Catherine of Siena OP (1347-1380) Virgin. Revisiting St Catherine with Fr Weninger.
St Catherine of Sienna, Virgin By Fr Francis Xavier Weninger SJ (1805-1888)
Sienna, in the Tuscan District, is the favoured place where, in 1347, Caterina / Catherine, first saw the light of this world. Her life from her childhood, was a continual exercise of the choicest virtues but, at the same time, a perpetual communication of Divine Grace. When scarcely five years of age, she was called “the little Saint” on account of her quietness and her love of prayer. Already, at that time, she greeted the Virgin Mother upon every step of the staircase with the words of the Angels: “Ave Maria!” When six years old, our Lord appeared to her with the Apostles Peter, Paul and John, together with St Dominic, looked tenderly at her and gave His blessing. This was the beginning of many and extraordinary visions with which the holy virgin was graced until her death. Her heart from this time was filled with intense love of God. She read most carefully the lives of the Saints and endeavoured to follow their example. In her seventh year she Consecrated her virginity to God. Her only pleasure was solitude, prayer, work and self-immolation.
Catherine’s Mother Sees Her Daughter Climbing the Stairs Suspended in the Air, by Alessandro Franchi and Gaetano Marinelli
Persuaded by her sister, she once began to pay more attention to her dresses and to curl her hair after the prevailing fashion of the world. This lasted, however, only a short while, for she became aware, during her prayers, how much God was displeased with such vanities and how long her pious sister would have to suffer, on account of it in purgatory. Hencfprward, she refrained from it and repented of her folly, as long as she lived. Her parents desired her to marry but she replied: “I am already wedded to a most noble Spouse and shall never bestow my love on a human being” and cutting off her hair, she covered her head with a veil.
Catherine Cutting Off her Long Hair, by Alessandro Franchi and Gaetano Marinelli
To drive all thoughts of entering a Convent out of her mind, her parents burdened her with the entire care of the house, as well as the most difficult work, so that no leisure was left her, either for prayer, or devotional reading. This was at first a sore trial to her,but she was told by Chris, to build a cell in her heart, where, in the midst of her employments, she might pray, namely, by offering her work to God and by pious ejaculations. Following these directions of Christ, her soul became filled with sweet consolation and she manifested, under the greatest drudgery, a most extraordinary happiness. This caused her parents to change their resolution and they permitted her to live according to her vocation. Hence, she now began to live in a more retired manner and with more austerity than before.
Catherine’s Father Finds Her Praying with the Dove of the Holy Ghost Above her Head,by Alessandro Franchi and Gaetano Marinelli
Bread, herbs and water were her only nourishment, two bare boards her bed. She was girded by a pointed chain which she continued to wear until a few hours before her death, when at the instance of her Confessor, she laid it aside. She only allowed herself one or two hours of sleep during the nigh,; the remainder she employed in prayer or in the contemplation of the Divine Mysteries. She scourged herself three times daily, sometimes until she drew blood. These austerities she observed from her eighteenth year until her death. After she had been received into the Third Order of St Dominic, she aspired most fervently after sanctification but Satan endeavoured, with the most loathsome imaginings and temptations, to trouble the repose of her soul and pervert her thoughts. Catherine, however, increasing her penance and her prayers, withstood him bravely but still, without feeling more relieved or more quiet. At length, when, one day, Christ appeared to her, she said: “O Lord, why hast Thou forsaken me?” “I was in thy heart,” answered the Saviour. “What” said she, “hast Thou been in my heart which was filled with such abominable thoughts? Hast thou then consented to them?!” “Hast thou been pleased with them?” asked Christ. “Oh, no!” replied Catherine, “it was most painful to me to be afflicted with them.” “And this was thy merit” said Christ “I have seen how thou hast battled and I have assisted thee.“ Thus ended her temptations which were succeeded by the most comforting visions of our Lord, His Blessed Mother and other Saints, the number of which is known only to God.
She frequently saw Christ as a lovely little Child in the holy Sacrament, for which Divine Mystery she entertained the most fervent devotion. She partook of it almost daily but always with renewed piety and shedding a flood of tears. It was very remarkable that the receiving of it preserved also her temporal life, for it is a fact that one year she partook of nothing else but the Blessed Eucharist from Ash Wednesday until Ascension day. When she was required, as an act of obedience, to take some food, she suffered so greatly by so doing that the request was not repeated.
After some time, Christ commanded her to be kind and charitable to her neighbours and she began to nurse the sick with an indescribable loving care. Among others, she attended to two women, of whom one was afflicted with leprosy, the other with cancer. In nursing them, she evinced the most perfect self-control. She pressed the offensive matter out of the sores and cleansed them with water. Feeling disgust, she drank the purulent matter which she had kept in a vessel mixed with water, saying to her Confessor that she had never tasted anything more agreeable. Christ appeared to her on the following night, praised her self-mortification and rewarded her with great interior peace and tranquillity.
Catherine Gives her Cloak to Jesus in the Guise of a Poor Man, by Alessandro Franchi and Gaetano Marinelli
It was an awful cross for her to bear, when this very woman, whom she had so tenderly nursed, instigated by Satan, not only complained of her but slandered her in the whole City. But Christ visited her and presenting to her two crowns, one of gold, the other of thorns, said: “Which of these two do you desire?” Catherine answered: “Lord, I desire to resemble Thee in this life and it is a joy to me to suffer as Thou didst:” and with these words she took the crown of thorns and pressed it upon her head. Christ, upon this, commanded her to continue her charity towards the sick which she did with unprecedented patience and kindness.
Jesus Offering Catherine a Crown of Gold and a Crown of Thorns, by Alessandro Franchi and Gaetano Marinelli
Her love towards those whose souls were diseased, was still more tender and she offered for such, her prayers and many penances, through which means, she obtained from God, the conversion of many sinners, who otherwise would have gone to destruction. She prayed three whole days for a certain woman who was dangerously ill and, who hated the Saint most bitterly. At last, she said to Christ: “I will not move from this place until Thou givest me this soul.” He graciously complied with her request by converting the woman and giving her a happy death.
She was also gifted by God with the grace of reading the inmost thoughts of those who approached her, hence, her exhortations were always addressed to their weakest spot. If a lascivious person came near her, she always perceived so terrible an odour that she had to cover her nose and mouth. Many other graces God had bestowed upon her, to relate all of which would take too much space.
One of the most remarkable of these was, that Christ had impressed the marks of His Five Holy Wounds upon her but in such a manner that, exteriorly, nothing was to be seen, while she suffered all their pains. She had prayed to Christ for this grace in order that it might remain unknown to the world. The many miracles which she performed on the sick and possessed and the heavenly wisdom with which she was filled, secured her, not only the highest regard of the people but also of the prelates of the Church, as well as of worldly princes. She was even sent in times of strife and contention, as a messenger of peace and the effect of her wonderful talents, more than surpassed all expectations.
By Giovanni Battista Tiepolo
At Rome, whither she had been called by the Pope, she became dangerously sick and during four months, she suffered excruciating pain. She ceased not, however, praising and giving thanks to God. The Almighty, whose judgement, although inscrutable, is always just, sent her a last bitter trial after she had received the holy Sacrament – Satan reproached her that in her actions and ecstasies, she had only sought her own aggrandisement. But she overcame the enemy of her peace and, after this anguish of soul, she had a most consoling and tender discourse with Christ, Who visibly appeared to her and into Whose Hands she breathed her chaste soul, in the thirty-third year of her life. Her last words were: “Lord, into Thy Hands I commend my spirit.“
Statuette by Neroccio di Bartolomeo de’ Landi,(1475)
The Chapel of Saint Catherine, Basilica of San Domenico in Siena
Bl Hildegard the Empress St Lawrence of Novara St Louis of Córdoba St Mariano of Acerenza St Maximus of Ephesus St Mercurialis of Forlì St Peter of Córdoba St Pomponius of Naples St Quirinus of Rome St Rodopiano of Aphrodisias St Sophia of Fermo St Swithbert the Younger Bl Ventura of Spello
Martyrs of Montpellier: A group of 70 Mercedarian Friars, led by Blessed Luigi Puell, who were Martyred by Huguenots for trying to bring people back to the Catholic Church. They were Martyred in 1567 in Montpellier, France.
Saint of the Day – 29 April – St Joseph Benedict Cottolengo (1786-1842) Priest, Founder, Confessor, Apostle of Charity.
It is the glory of the City of Turin that for almost one hundred years, it possessed a line of saintly Tertiary Priests ,who have been raised to the honours of the Altar. One of these is Saint Joseph Benedict Cottolengo, the man who more than any other, in the nineteenth Century at least, was instrumental in inducing men “to love, bless and invoke that sweet and ever active Providence which rules over the universe and provides for the needs of every man, on his way through the toils of life, to the rest of the eternal blessedness.”
Joseph Benedict was born in the little town of Piedmont called Bra, on the 3rd of May,1786. His parents were poor in the goods of this world but rich, by virtue of noble traits of mind and character. Twelve children were born to this worthy couple. Joseph was the eldest and was so frail in his infancy that his mother was in constant dread of losing him but, her fervent prayers and faithful car, in time brought him health and strength. As soon as he was able to understand, she filled his mind with thoughts of God and of our Lady and was careful to train him to deeds of charity to the poor.
In preparing His servant for his life work, Almighty God provided Joseph Benedict Cottolengo with the greatest need of the human soul – that “one in ten thousand” who St Francis de Sales recommends Phiothea, to choose for her Confessor. The Parish Priest of St Andrew the Apostle, besides being a Priest who possessed more than ordinary zeal, eloquence and piety, had a special love for the poor and the afflicted. He allowed this gentle and pure child to receive his First Holy Communion at the then unusual age, of nine years.
At school, Joseph was much grieved to find himself always at the bottom of his class. Some Priests advised him to pray to the great St Thomas Aquinas, after which he went from the foot to the head of the class. Recognising the event as a special blessing from God, he was desirous of reciprocating, to the best of his ability and so, he frequently declared, “I will strive to become a saint.”
In spite of the various obstacles that came in his way when preparing for the holy Priesthood, he, nevertheless, succeeded in passing the various tests of his vocation and on 8 June 1811, aged 25 years, he was Ordained a Priest in the Church of the Immaculate Conception in Turin. He devoted himself with much ardour to all his priestly duties and especially to the poor and the sick; still, his heart was not satisfied, for he felt that God intended him for some special work.
As Canon of the Collegiate Church of Corpus Christi in Turin, he was inspired, by the sight of the misery everywhere apparent and by the reading of the life of St Vincent de Paul, to take a hand in alleviating human suffering. After having witness the death of a mother of three children who was very sick. yet was denied admission in any hospital, he was inspired to spend his life in the service and the welfare of the poor. To serve and help them he founded the Little House of Divine Providence, in Turin on 27 April 1832. He founded the communities of Sisters, Brothers, and Priests. His first steps were to provide care and shelter for the destitute sick of the Parish, by renting some rooms for a hospital and interesting some young women in the work.
In 1832 there was founded at Valdocco, what became known as the House of Providence. Pope Pius IX called it the “House of Miracles” and popularly it was styled the “University of Charity” on account of the diversified work of charity which the Saint began there, with no income or outlook but an heroic trust in the merciful Providence of God. By the time of his death in 1842, the work, as it may still be seen today, was practically complete, with all its various hospitals, workshops, schools, seminaries, cloistered and non-cloistered Convents, asylums for the old, the feebleminded and the insane, the crippled, epileptic, blind, deaf and dumb and the like! All this in just 10 years – only the Hand of God in His Divine Providence using His lowly tool, Joseph, could have accomplished such an immense achievement!
Saint Joseph of Cottolengo purchased food for his destitute patients on credit and once forgot to pay the bill after a series of months. The creditor, naturally upset, personally presented the bill for payment. The Saint had no money and proved it by emptying his pockets and all the drawers in the house. The creditor became so enraged that he began to strike St Joseph, when the Saint once again reached into his pocket. This time he drew out several gold coins that had not been there a moment before and paid the surprised creditor with them.
At Saint Joseph Benedict Cottolengo’s Beatification in 1917, this “City of Charity” numbered some eight thousand people and these had resolutely resisted any attempt to settle fixed revenues on the Institution, so that it might remain, forever, what it was at the outset, a monument to Divine Providence.
While still a young man, Joseph had been received into the Third Order of St Francis and had distinguished himself by his spirit of perfect poverty. He assiduously strove also, to foster in himself and in others, love towards the Blessed Sacrament and the sufferings of Jesus Christ. Along with supreme trust in God’s Providence, good humour adorned the Saint, which no opposition, no storms, nor hardships could shake.
When the authorities of the City of Turin, giving way to protests from the people, ordered the closing of the original house, the Saint smilingly complied and moved the Infirmary countryward saying: “Cabbages thrive better for being transplanted.” His vast settlement with all its departments he referred to as “Noah’s Ark.”
Confidence in God did not, however, cause him to cross his arms and observe. He slept only a few hours, often on a chair or bench and then returned to his daily labour, work and prayer. But Saint Joseph Benedict was exhausting his strength. In 1842, the doctors decided that he should go to visit his brother in Chieri. When he entered the carriage, one of the Sisters cried out in tears: “Father,, you are sick,what will become of us?” “Be at peace,” he answered. “When I am in Heaven, where one can do everything, I will help you more than I now do. I will hold to the cloak of the Mother of God and keep my eyes fixed on you. Do not forget what I, a poor old man, say to you today!”
Saint Joseph Benedict Cottolengo was only in his fifty-sixth year when he was called to his great reward. His last hours were spent in fervent prayer. He died on the evening of 30 April 1842. The final word of this great Saint was that of the Psalm: “I rejoiced when it was said unto me, Let us go unto the House of the Lord!”
Many miracles occurred at his tomb, including many cures of bodily ills and maladies of the soul. Some have even seen his visible presence. Pope Pius XI enrolled him among the Saints of the Church on 19 March 1934.
Statue of the 19th century St Joseph Benedict Cottolengo stands in the 50-acre campus of the Marian Center.
St Peter Martyr/ of Verona OP (1205–1252) Martyr, Priest and Friar of the Order of Preachers, , a celebrated Preacher, Miracle-worker, Marian devotee. He served as Inquisitor in Lombardy, was murdered by an assassin and was Canonised 11 months after his death, making his the fastest Canonisation in history. His Life: https://anastpaul.com/2019/04/29/saint-of-the-day-29-april-st-peter-of-verona-op-1205-1252/
Abbots of Cluny: A feast that recognises the great and saintly early Abbots of Cluny Abbey:
Saint Aymardus of Cluny
Saint Berno of Cluny
Saint Hugh of Cluny
Saint Mayeul
Saint Odilo of Cluny
Saint Odo of Cluny
Saint Peter the Venerable
St Ava of Denain St Daniel of Gerona St Dichu St Endellion of Tregony St Fiachan of Lismore
St Hugh of Cluny (1024-1109) St Hugh the Great, Priest and Royal Prince, Abbot of Cluny from 1049 until his death., Founder-builder of numerous Monasteries, Convents , Hospitals and the biggest Church in Europe (the Abbey Church at C luny) prior to the building of St Peter’s, apostle of the poor, the sick, the marginalised by the feudal system, ecclesiastical Reformer, holy father to his Monks and servant to all who needed him,. He was one of the most influential leaders of the monastic orders from the Middle Ages. St Hugh the Great: https://anastpaul.com/2021/04/29/saint-of-the-day-29-april-st-hugh-of-cluny-1024-1109-st-hugh-the-great/
St Gundebert of Gumber St Juan Vargas St Paulinus of Brescia Bl Robert Gruthuysen St Senan of Wales
St Severus of Naples (Died 409) Bishop of Naples for 46 years, Confessor, friend of St Ambrose, constructor of four Basilicas and the first Baptistry in the West. The Roman Martyrology reads: “In Naples, St Severus, Bishop, loved by St Ambrose, as a brother and, by his Church ,as a father.” Fascinating fact: The City of Naples has more than 50 official Patron Saints, although its principal Patron is the Martyr Bishop, Saint Januarius.(Died c 304). His life here: https://anastpaul.com/2017/09/19/saint-of-the-day-19-september-st-januarius/ St Severus is one of those 50 and the full list is contained in his biography, below. His Life: https://anastpaul.com/2022/04/29/saint-of-the-day-29-april-saint-severus-of-naples-died-409/
St Theoger St Torpes of Pisa St Tychicus St Wilfrid the Younger
Martyrs of Cirta: A group of Clergy and Laity Martyred together in Cirta, Numidia (in modern Tunisia) in the persecutions of Valerian. They were – Agapius, Antonia, Emilian, Secundinus and Tertula, along with a woman and her twin children whose names have not come down to us.
Martyrs of Corfu: A gang of thieves who converted while in prison, brought to the Faith by Saint Jason and Saint Sosipater who had been imprisoned for evangelising. When the gang announced their new Faith, they were Martyred together. They were – Euphrasius, Faustianus, Insischolus, Januarius, Mammius, Marsalius and Saturninus. They were boiled in oil and pitch in the 2nd century on the Island of Corcyra (modern Corfu, Greece. Also known as: Martyrs of Corcyra, Seven Holy Thieves, Seven Holy Robbers, Seven Robber Saints.
Saint of the Day – 28 April – St Paul of the Cross CP (1604-1775) Confessor, Priest, Mystic, Preacher, endowed with miraculous powers of healing and prophecy, Founder of the Congregation of the Passion of Jesus Christ – the Passionists. Born Paolo Francesco Danei on 3 January 1694, in the Town of Ovada, Italy and died at the age of 81 on 18 October 1775, at the Retreat of Saints John and Paul. St Paul’s Major Shrine is at the Basilica of Saints Giovanni e Paolo, Rome, Italy. St Paul called his Monasteries “Retreats” to underline the life of solitude and contemplation which, he believed was necessary, for someone who wished to preach the message of the Cross. In addition to the communal celebration of the Divine Office, members of hisOrder were to devote at least three hours to contemplative prayer each day.
St Paul of the Cross From the Roman Breviary
St Paul of the Cross was born at Ovada in Liguria [Northern Italy] and was descended from a noble family of Castellazzo near Alessandria [Piedmont]. The brilliance of his future holiness was foreshown, by a wonderful light which filled his mother’s room at night, while she was in labour and, by a remarkable favour of the august Queen of Heaven, who delivered him unhurt, from certain destruction, when he fell into a river as a child.
From the dawn of reason, he was filled with an ardent love for Jesus Christ Crucified and began to devote much time to contemplation of His Passion. He chastised his innocent flesh with watchings, scourgings and fasting, on Fridays drank vinegar mingled with gall and practiced all kinds of severe penances. Burning with desire for Martyrdom, he enlisted in the army which was being raised at Venice, to fight against the Turks. After he learned, in prayer, the will of God, he gave up the career of arms to serve in a nobler army which was, to defend the Church and strive with all his might for the eternal salvation of men. When he returned home he refused a very honourable marriage and the inheritance left him by his uncle; he wished to enter upon the narrower way of the Cross and to receive a coarse tunic from his Bishop. Then, by command of the Bishop, because of his eminent holiness of life and knowledge of Divine things, although not yet a cleric, he tilled the Lord’s field by preaching the Divine Word, with great profit to souls.
He went to Rome and after having studied the regular course in Theology, he was Ordained Priest by command of the Supreme Pontiff, Benedict XIII, who also gave him permission to gather companions around him. He withdrew to the solitude of Mount Argentaro, where he had already been summoned by the Blessed Virgin, who had also shown him a black habit bearing the emblems of the Passion of her Son and there, he laid the foundations of a new Congregation.
Retreat/Monastery of the Presentation in Monte Argentario, Tuscany
In a short time by God’s blessing, it increased very much, sustained by his arduous labours and attracted eminent men. It received the confirmation of the Apostolic See more than once, together with the Rules which Paul had himself received from God in prayer and, the addition of a Fourth Vow – to promote the blessed remembrance of the Passion of the Lord. He also founded a Congregation of holy Virgins, who would constantly meditate upon the surpassing love of the Divine Spouse.
In all these works, his untiring love of souls never caused him to weary in the preaching of the Gospel and he led almost countless men, even the most abandoned and those who had fallen into heresy, onto the footpath of salvation. Wonderful was the power of his eloquence, especially when he spoke of the Passion of Christ, so that, both he and his hearers, would shed tears and the most hardened hearts were moved to repentance.
The flame of the love God, so burnt in breast that the garment which was nearest to his heart, often seemed to be scorched if by fire and two of his ribs seemed to protrude. He could not restrain his tears, particularly when saying Mass and he was seen to experience frequent ecstasies, during which there was a remarkable elevation of his body and his face shone with light from Heaven. Sometimes, when he was preaching, a heavenly voice was heard promting him and at other times, his words could be heard at the distance of several miles! He was distinguished for gifts of prophecy, languages, reading the heart, power over evil spirits, diseases and the elements. Though even the Supreme Pontiffs regarded him with affection and veneration, he looked upon himself as an unprofitable servant and a worthless sinner, upon whom devils might well trample.
At length, having persisted in his most austere mode of life until extreme old age, in 1775 at Rome, he pass,ed to Heaven on the very day he had predicted, after he had addressed to his followers, some most beatiful exhortations, as it were bequeathing them the heritage of his spirit and fortified with the Sacraments of the Church and with a heavenly vision.
Founder’s Statue at St Peter’s Basilica, Rome
The Supreme Pontiff Pius IX enrolled him among the blessed and after renewed signs and wonders, among the Saints.
Shrine is at the Basilica of Saints Giovanni e Paolo, Rome, Italy.
St Vitalis of Ravenna (Died c 171) Martyr, Layman, Husband and father. The Roman Martyrology states of him today: “At Ravenna, the birthday of St Vitalis, Martyr, father of the Saint Gervasius and Protasius. When he had taken up and reverently buried the body of blessed Ursicinus, he was arrested by the ex-consul Paulinus and after being racked and thrown nto a deep pit, was overwhelmed with earth and stones and by this kind of martyrdom, went to Christ.” His Life and Death: https://anastpaul.com/2021/04/28/saint-of-the-day-28-april-saint-vitalis-of-ravenna-died-c-171-martyr/
Saint of the Day – 27 April – Saint John of Kathara (c770-c835) Priest, Abbot, Defender of Sacred Images. Born in c770 at Irenopolis, Isaurian Decapolis (modern Greece) and died in c835 on the prison island of Aphousia (modern Avsa, Balikesir, Turkey) of natural causes. Also known as – John di Catari, John of Cathare, John of Constantinople.
The Roman Martyrology states [somewhat erroneously * see below]: “At Constantinople, the Abbot St John, who combated vigorously, for the worship of holy images, under Leo the Isaurian.”
At the age of nine John embraced the monastic life. His master became attached to him and took him with him to the second Council of Nicaea (787) and then again when he left for Constantinople, where he became Superior of the Monastery known as the Dalmatian. Here John was Ordained to the Priesthood.
In Lent of 805, the Emperor Nicephorus (802-811) sent John to govern the Cathar Monastery in Bithynia and in the summer of 808, his convent separated from St. Theodore the Studite, probably because John had accepted the re-establishment of the Priest Giuseppe, made famous in the ‘Mechian’ controversy.
He had been Abbot for just over ten years when the iconoclast persecution, unleashed by Leo the Armenian (813-820), removed him from his Convent (April – May 815). Taken to Constantinople before the Emperor, he was scourged, then relegated to his residence where he remained for three months. He was finally exiled and imprisoned in the fortress of Pentadactylos in the region of Lampe, near Apamea.
During this confinement, he joined, together with other iconodule Abbots and Monks, the appeals addressed to Rome, in 816 and 817, by Saint Theodore the Studila. After ten months of detention, he had to appear again, in the capital (around April 817), before the Emperor and the usurping Bishop Theodotus.
John resisted magnificently and was exiled again (June 819) to the fort of Criautoros. Early in the reign of Michael the Stutterer, Leo’s successor, John was freed (after 25 December 820) and returned to Chalcedon but was not allowed to enter the capital. Perhaps he reached his Monastery. But when the Emperor Theophilos unleashed a new offensive against the cult of images (after October 832), John tried to rally the iconophile Monks around him. Therefore, he was again exiled to the island of Afusia,, where he died on 27 April 835.
* On 27 April, the Roman Martyrology contains a praise of the Saint which needs rectification – it speaks of Leo the Isaurian instead of Leo the Armenian; moreover, in fixing the place of John’s death at Constantinople, leading many to believe that the Saint had been the Abbot of the Cathar Monastery existing in the capital of the Byzantine Empire.
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/
Our lady of Montserrat, patroness of Catalonia. The statue of the black Madonna is in the Church of Santa Maria de Montserrat Abbey, Catalonia, Spain. Photographed from 21.07.2015.
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 John of Kathara (c770-c835) Priest, Abbot St Liberalis of Treviso St Maughold
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.” P atronages – housewives, butlers, housemaid, domestic servants (proclaimed by Pope Pius XII), housemaid, lost keys, maids, manservants, people ridiculed for their piety, rape victims, servants, 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 – Saint 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.”
Marcellinus was a Roman, the son of Projectus. He succeeded Caius as Bishop of Rome. We know little about his Pontificate except that a certain heretic of the 6th Century accused Marcellinus of having apostised but almost immediately repenting. St Augustine refutes and denies this allegation.
Marcellinus was beheaded with three others and their bodies remained without burial in the forum for thirty six days, to strike fear into the hearts of their fellow-Christians.
It was on the 26th of April in the year 304 that a Priest named Marcel, came at night, with other Priests and Deacons of Rome, to gather up their Relics which they laid to rest in the Priscilla Catacomb.
After a considerable interval, he was succeeded by Marcellus, with whom he has sometimes been confused
Bl Alda of Siena St Antoninus of Rome St Basileus of Amasea St Clarence of Venice St Claudius of Rome St Cyrinus of Rome St Exuerantia of Troyes Bl Gregory of Besians Bl Juli Junyer Padern St Lucidius of Verona
Saint of the Day – 25 April – Blessed Boniface of Valperga (Died 1243) Bishop, distinguished by his love for the poor and his great humility -his spiritual depth and holiness of life, made him very popular, even among the simplest people. Born in the latter 12th Century in Turin, Italy and died on 25 April 1243 in Aosta, Italy of natural causes.
Boniface was born into a noble family of the Canavese, the Counts of Valperga, which claimed descent from the King of Italy, Arduino d’Ivrea. Having received a first basic Christian education in the family, he was, therefore, sent to his paternal uncle Arduino, Bishop of Turin, who provided for his wider education, as well as the growth of Christian virtues.
Having reached a certain age, Bonifacio decided to undertake religious life, wearing the monastic Habit in the Benedictine Abbey of Fruttuaria, today’s San Benigno Canavese. He then moved to the Monastery-Collegiate Church of Sant’Orso of the Regular Canons of Aosta, shining here too for his doctrine and the sanctity of his life.
Soon, around 1210, he was made Prior. In this capacity he undertook a vigorous spiritual and temporal direction of the community, attracting popular admiration and esteem upon himself. This also meant that the faithful took the fate of the Convent more to heart, intervening more and more frequently, with substantial donations.
When Bishop Giacomo was transferred to Asti, on 17 July 1219, Boniface was elected Bishop of Aosta, an office which he retained until his death nearly 24 years later, on 25 April 1243.
The numerous donations in favour of the Bishop’s canteen testify to the good administration of Diocesan assets which he was able to implement and the trust he inspired in his faithful. He poured out all his strength as Shepherd of the flock entrusted to him for twenty-four years, always distinguishing himself by his humility, his love for the poor, for his concern and zeal in the care of souls.
Bonifacio died on 25 April 1243 and was buried at first in the Collegiate Church of Sant’Orso. His body was then transferred to the Cathedral Church of Aosta, to the Chapel of St Antonio.
Around 1302, a marble Statue of Boniface was erected and finally, there was a triple recognition of his mortal remains in 1551, in 1783 and in 1817. On this last occasion the Urn of Relics was placed in a niche between the main Altar and the right aisle of the Aosta Cathedral, where they are still exposed to public veneration today, alongside those of the Blessed Emeric of Quart.
On 28 April 1890 Pope Leo XIII Confirmed his Beatification which had taken place in 1885 by an Ecclesiastical Court in Aosta, Iwhich was specifically called to consider the matter.
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/
The Healing of Anianus by Cima da Conegliano
Blessed Boniface of Valperga (Died 1243) Bishop St Callista of Syracuse St Clarentius of Vienne St Ermin of Lobbes St Evodius of Syracuse 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 – 24 April – St Egbert (c639-c729) Confessor, Priest, Monk, Reformer, Missionary, Teacher. Born in c639 in Northumbria, England and died on 24 April 729 on the Island of Iona, Scotland of natural causes. After studying at Lindisfarne and Rath Melsigi, (in Ireland) he spent his life travelling around the Monasteries in northern Britain and around the Irish Sea on his mission of Reform. He was instrumental in the establishment of St Wigbert’s mission, in the footsteps of St Boniface, to the Teutonic lands of Holland and Germany. Also known as – Egbert of Iona, Egbert of Northumbria, Egbert of Ripon, Egbert of Rath Migisi, Ecgberht.
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.”
Egbert was born in Northumbria, England in around 639 of a noble family. After some years of study at the Monastery of Lindisfarne, he travelled to Ireland to study. One of his fellow Friars at this time was St Chad of Mercia. He settled at the Monastery of Rath Melsigi, in modern-day County Carlow.
By 664, most of his Northumbrian brethren, died of the plague and he contracted it too. Egbert vowed that if he recovered, he would live in exile, on perpetual pilgrimage from his homeland of England and would lead a life of penitential prayer and fasting. At this time he was twenty five years old and upon his recovery, he kept his vow until his death at age 90.
According to tradition, Egbert was one of the most renowned ‘pilgrims’ of the early Middle Ages and occupied a prominent position in a political and religious culture which spanned northern Britain and the Irish Sea.
Egbert was Ordained a Priest and began to organise Monks in Ireland to evangelise in Frisia. Many other high-born notables were associated with his work, including Saint Adalbert, Saint Swithbert and Saint Chad. He, however, was dissuaded from accompanying them himself by a vision in which a Monk, who had been the Prior of Melrose Monastery. Egbnert instead dispatched St Wigbert, another Englishman living at Rath Melsigi, to Frisia.
While in Ireland, Egbert was one of those present at the Synod of Birr in 697, when the Lex Innocentium (Law of Innocents) was guaranteed. This is regarded as Europe’s first human rights treaty, for its protection of women and non-combatants, extending the Law of Patrick, which protected Monks, to civilians.
Egbert had influential contacts with the Kings of Northumbria and of the Picts, as well as with Iona, to which he moved in around 716. He persuaded the Monks there to adopt the Roman Easter dating. He died on Iona at the age of ninety, on the first day in which the Easter Feast was observed in the Roman dating in the Monastery, on 24 April 729.
His feast day 24 April, is found in both the Roman and Irish Martyrologies, and in the Metrical Calendar of York. Although he is now honoured as a Confessor, it is probable that St Ecgberht was a Bishop.
Our Saint Egbert ought not to be confused with the later Egbert. the Archbishop of York, or Egbert of Lindisfarne.
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. St Eusebius of Lydda St Gregory of Elvira St Honorius of Brescia St Ivo of Huntingdonshire 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 Helen del Cavalanti OSA (1396-1458) Widow, Mother, Third Order Augustinian, Mystic, Miracle-worker. Helen was known for her spirit of penance, obedience, humility, devotion to the Passion of Christ and to the Eucharist and for her love of neighbour. Born in 1396 at Udine, Italy and died om 23 April 1458, at Udine of natural causes. Patronages – against temptations, of widows. Also known as – Helen Valentini. Helen of Udine, Helena Valentini of Udine, Elena…
Helen was born in Udine in 1396 to the nobleman Count Valentinis – a Lord of Maniago. We know of only one sibling, a sister: named Perfetta.
In 1411 at the age of 15, she married the Florentine Knight, Antonio del Cavalcanti, an Official of the City of Udine and the pair had six children – three males and three females, living happily as a loving family.
After 30 years together, raising their 6 children, Antonio died. Helen cut off her hair and placed it with her jewels in his coffin, saying: “These I wore for love of you – take them to the grave with you.”
A short while later, still within 1441, Helen heard a sermon in the Augustinian Church of Santa Lucia and decided then and there to join the Order. She became a professed Third Order member of the Order of Saint Augustine (the first for the Third Order in Udine).
A Statue of Blessed Helen in Udine
She soon became known for her several austerities and her life of dedication to her fellowman. One of her mortifications was to take a vow of silence, speaking on Christmas alone. Helen placed 33 pebbles in jer shoes walking with pain for the rest of her days and slept on a stone pallet in place of a bed. She continued to live at home, in 1446 she moved in with her sister who was also a Third Order Augustinian, residing there until her death. She dedicated herself completely to God. She devoted long hours to prayer and meditation on the Gospels. She provided personal service and material contributions, to works of mercy. Helen developed a reputation as a Miracle worker with the power of curing the sick.
Helen became bedridden in 1455 after fracturing both her femurs in a fall. Even now, in this painful time, Helen preferred a pallet of stones and straw to a bed. Her declining health led to her death on the Saturday evening of 23 April 1458. Mass was celebrated in her room and Friars from a nearby Convent came to chant the Psalms.
Her remains were interred in Santa Lucia but in 1845. they were moved to the Udine Cathedral. On 27 September 1848, Pope Pius IX confirmed her cultus and Beatified her.
There is a wonderful procession in her honour each year.
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/
Blessed Helen del Cavalanti (Died 1458) Widow, Mother, Third Order Augustinian. 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 – 22April – Saint Altfried of Münster (Died 849) the Third Bishop of Münster from (839–849) and Abbot of Essen-Werden and Helmstedt. Born in the 9th Century, n Friesland (in modern Netherlands) and died on 22 April 849 of natural causes. Altfried was a nephew of St Ludger (c 742-809) and his second successor in the See of Münster, as well as a successor as Abbot of the Abbey of Essen-Werden (founded by St Ludger). The second successor was also a close relative, St Gerfried of Münster. Altfried also wrote a comprehensive Vita of St Ludger. Also known as – Altfrid, Altfrith. The name Münster means Monastery.
We have such scant information on Altfried’s life, although I believe there is a complete Vita available somewhere online in Latin. He was born of a noble family and followed his uncle, St Ludger becoming a Monk and Priest in St Ludger’s Monastery of Essen-Werden, later becoming it’s Abbot. It seems that a second Monastery at Helmstedt, also founded by St Ludger fell under Altfried’s administration.
On the death of Bishop Gerfried in 839, Altfried succeeded him as the Bishop of Münster where he remained until his death.
His remains were solemnly buried in the Crypt at the Monastery of Essen-Werden. The Statues and Tomb inscription below, are enshrined there.
Notre-Dames de Betharam / Our Lady of Betharam, France (1503) – 22 April: Saint Bernadette Soubirous frequently visited the Shrine of Betharram. In fact, the rosary beads that Bernadette used when praying with the Blessed Virgin during the first apparition at Lourdes had come from the Betharram Shrine and the priest to whom she was sent after the apparitions, was Saint Michel Garicoïts (1797-1863) the Priest of Betharram. He it was who alone believed Bernadette’s accounts of the apparitions at Lourdes. He was Canonised in 1947. About St Michel Garicoits here: https://anastpaul.com/2019/05/14/saint-of-the-day-14-may-saint-michel-garicoits-1797-1863/ HERE: https://anastpaul.com/2021/04/22/notre-dames-de-betharam-our-lady-of-betharam-france-1503/
St Pope Caius I (Died 296) Martyr, Bishop of Rome from 17 December 283 to his death in 296. Christian tradition makes him a native of the Dalmatian city of Salona, today Solin near Split, the son of a man also named Caius and a member of a noble family related to the Emperor Diocletian. Biography: https://anastpaul.com/2019/04/22/saint-of-the-day-22-april-saint-pope-caius-i-died-613/
Martyrs of Persia: Bishops, Priests, Deacons and Laity who were Martyred in Persia and celebrated together. Several of them have their stories related in the Acta of Saints Abdon and Sennen.
Saint of the Day – 21 April – St Anselm (1033-1109) Bishop, Confessor, Magnificent and Marian Doctor of the Church
St Anselm, Archbishop of Canterbury By Fr Francis Xavier Weninger SJ (1805-1888)
“Anselm, the celebrated Archbishop of Canterbury, in England, was born in Piedmont in the year 1033. He was gifted by nature with brilliant talents and a large, comprehensive mind. When he was hardly fifteen years of age, he was desirous of entering upon a religious life but he was not, admitted, as it was feared that it would provoke the wrath of his father and his noble relatives. This refusal was so deeply regretted by Anselm that he fell into a grievous illness which renewed his determination to enter a Monastery. On his recovery, however, he forgot his resolution and not only did he lose all inclination to enter the religious state, but he began to lead a much more worldly life than he had done previously. It was fortunate for him that, to a certain extent, he had lost his father’s love and was treated by him rather harshly. Not being able to endure this, Anselm left home, hoping that his absence might restore to him his father’s affection.
He, therefore, proceeded to France, where he remained for three years. Suddenly his desire to study, which had lain dormant in his mind so long, was reawakened and hearing that the celebrated Doctor Lanfranc, his compatriot, instructed young men in sacred science, in an Abbey not far distant, he went to him and begged to be admitted among the number of his disciples. Lanfranc consented and Anselm made such rapid progress in his studies that he soon left all others behind him.
During this time, he renewed his zeal in the practice of piety and virtue and also his determination to give his life entirely to the Almighty. In pursuance of this, he received the Habit, at the age of twenty-seven, in the Abbey of St Benedict, where he had studied and, after having passed through his novitiate, he took his vows. How eanestly he strove after spiritual perfection is evident from the fact that three years after, he had taken the vows, he succeeded Lanfranc, his teacher, as Prior of the same Abbey, the latter being called as Abbot to another Monastery. Several, who had been longer in the Order than he, envied and persecuted him on account of his promotion but the exquisite gentleness, patience and humility of Anselm soon won him all hearts and changed envy and jealousy into love and respect. His holy life added much to their veneration. He fasted almost daily,and his body became fearfully emaciated. By his constant mortification, he lost all relish for food. During the day, he instructed others in sacred science and in the Mysteries of the Faith. The greater part of the night he passed in prayer and meditation.
He attended, before all his other affairs, to the sick, day and night and wherever he was needed. He fed them and lifted them in and out of their beds, with his own hands. The most tender devotion he bore to our Crucified Saviour and often wept bitterly when he thought how our Redeemer, notwithstanding all His sufferings for us, is so frequently and so deeply offended. His aversion to sin was so intense that he, several times said that he would rather cast himself into hell, than commit a mortal sin. He shunned carefully the least thing that he thought was displeasing to God – because nothing is little which offends the Most High and often from something which appears, in itself, of small importance, eternal happiness or damnation depends! He too, was much devoted to the Blessed Virgin and was one of the first who defended, by the pen, her Immaculate Conception. Besides this, he wrote many other works in praise of the Divine Mother,and endeavoured to incite others to pay her due honours.
After the death of the Abbot, Anselm was unanimously elected as his successor, although he did what he could to prevent it. Invested with this new dignity, he changed, not in the least his mode of life, unless he was more fervent than ever in all his devotional exercises.
The fame of his sanctity and erudition spread abroad daily, more and more, so that he was not only esteemed by the Prelates of the Church, as well as by Kings but also by Pope Gregory VII, who, harassed on account of the sad condition of the Church at that period, recommended himself several times to the prayers of the Saint.
Some business appertaining to his Convent called Anselm to England and as his name was already well known there, he was everywhere received with the greatest honour. While he was, in England, Lanfranc, who after being instructor to Anselm, had become Abbot and then Archbishop of Canterbury, died and the King, without hesitation, chose St Anselm to be his successor and although the Saint most earnestly declined, he was at last obliged to yield to the influences of the clergy. He shed many bitter tears during his Consecration but once installed in his new functions, he went zealously to work to change the depraved manners of the people by preaching, writing instructive works and holding Councils.
Everything was going well, when the King himself caused great disturbances. He took forcible possession of a great deal of property belonging to the Church and would not consent that, during the division which at that time existed in the Church, anyone else but himself, should be regarded as the head thereof. Anselm courageously protected the rights and liberties of the Church and opposed, with manly independence, the wicked oppression and evil designs of the King. Hence, the unscrupulous counsellors of the King, persecuted him, banished his friends, deprived him of his revenues and tormented him in manifold ways, thinking thus to intimidate him and make him pliable to the King’s wishes. But they were mistaken. The Saint remained inflexible and was willing, rather to die, than in the least to swerve from his duty. Believing that the wrath of the King would be sooner appeased, if another occupied his See, he went to Rome and humbly requested the Pope to release him from his Archbishopric. The Pope, however, refusing his request, endeavoured to reconcile him with the King and meanwhile, made use of the knowledge and talents of the holy man in his warfare against the heretics and schismatics.
After sometime, Anselm went to Lyons, in France, to escape the honours which were tendered to him at Rome. While there, King William of England, who had so violently resented the Saint’s protection of the rights of the Church, died an unhappy death. He was hunting and the excitement was just at its height, when the fatal arrow of a French officer piercing his heart, sent him, without a moment for repentance, into eternity. Indescribably grieved was Anselm on hearing this news and he said more than once, that he would willingly give his life, if with his blood, he could save the soul of the unhappy Monarch. Before the intelligence of the King’s death had reached Lyons, Hugh, the holy Abbot of Cluny, said to Anselm : “King William stands accused before the Judgement Seat of the Most High and is already judged and sentenced to the eternal fire.”
On the death of King William, the crown fell to his son Henry, who, warned by the example of his father, endeavoured to ameliorate matters. He abolished the intolerable investitures, was gracious and kind to all, would neither have anything to do with the property of the Church, nor lay hands on the income of the clergy. As he knew how great the consideration was that Anselm enjoyed among all right-minded people, he recalled him to England and received him very graciously. But this behaviour was of short duration and before long the Archbishop had again to make a journey to Rome to seek protection for the rights of the Church, which Henry, like his father, commenced to violate. The Pope granted the Saint all he requested, all that justice demanded but when the King heard of it, he forbade the Archbishop to return to his See.
Anselm, therefore, repairing once more to Lyons, remained there for sixteen months. While there he daily celebrated the Holy Mass and offered many prayers and penances for the conversion of the King and the salvation of the whole land. Meanwhile, all England wished for the return of her shepherd and the King’s sister rested not in her endeavours, until her brother was appeased and allowed him to come back. After the holy man had returned to his See, he strove with all his energy to employ his few remaining years for the benefit of his flock. Thus he passed three peaceful years.
When he was no longer able to say Mass, he caused himself to be carried into the Church that he might at least be present at the Holy Sacrifice, for which he had always evinced the deepest veneration. After having received the Holy Sacraments on Wednesday in Holy Week, he requested to be laid, clad in a penitential robe, on the ground upon ashes and while they read to him the Passion of our Lord, he peacefully expired, in the seventy-sixth year of his age.
The many miracles which were wrought at his tomb caused the fame of his sanctity to be spread abroad through the whole of the Christian world.”
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 Bl Wolbodó of Liège
Saint of the Day – 20 April – 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. Born in the Rhineland, Germany and died in 1188 in Schönau, Germany of natural causes. Also known as – Joseph, Brother Joseph, Hildegun of Neuss, Hildegunda of…. Hildegunde of…. Hildegund of…. (Hildegund should not be confused with Saint Hildegund (c1130–1178), whose Feast day is 6 February.)
Born to a noble family, her father Harper, took her on a pilgrimage to the Holy Land in 1182, when she was 12 years old. However, after landing at Tyre, Lebanon, Harper took ill and knew he would die. He entrusted her to the care of his manservant and, realising the dangers that could meet the girl on her return journey, her father dressed her as a boy.
No sooner was Harper buried, however, than the servant absconded with the money given him for expenses and abandoned Hildegun. Still dressed as a boy, she took the name Joseph for the patron of families and children. Left to beg on the streets, a well-connected German pilgrim saw her and offered to return her to her home but failed to fulfil his plans.
By 1187, Hildegun was moved by a call to the religious life. Thus she entered the Cistercian Monastery at Schönau — without mentioning that she was a young woman.
After a year’s novitiate and three days before she was to take her monastic vows, she took ill, dying on 20 April 1188. Only while preparing her for burial did the Monks discover her actual sex.
St Caedwalla of Wessex Bl Catwallon St Domninus of Digne Bl Gerald of Salles Bl Harduin Blessed Hildegun of Schönau (Died 1188) Virgin St Hugh of Anzy-le-Duc Bl John of Grace-Dieu
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 – Blessed Bernard of Sithiu (Died 1182) Layman Penitent, Pilgrim, Hermit Died on 19 April 1182 in the Monastery of Saint-Bertin, Thérouanne region, France of natural causes. Patronages – of sinners, convicts, prisoners, penitents, pilgrims. Also known as – Bernard of Maguellone, Bernard the Penitent, Bernard the Pilgrim.
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.”
Like St Nicholas of Trani, St Benedict Joseph Labre, St Rocco and several others this Saint lived as an itinerant pilgrim to the Shrines of Europe.
The few reports received about the life of Blessed Bernard of Sithiu are those handed down in the writings of John of Sithiu, Abbot in 1187, a source of extraordinary interest. There is also the Office composed in his honour and in 1465, an inventory of his remains are cited, “relics of St Bernard, Penitent. “
From such documents and testimonies, we discover that Bernard, following a murder, was ordered to make a pilgrimage of atonement.
After wandering far and wide for a long time, he finally settled near the former town of Sithiu, where, for four years he lived in poverty and deprivation. He prayed and fasted incessantly and endured the elements, as well as many other trials and sufferings. He became a very saintly man in love with God and self-renunciation. Finally dying on 19 April 1182.
The fame for holiness which was gained in life, was later confirmed after death, by many miracles occurring at his tomb.
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
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 – Blessed Barbara Aurillot / Marie of the Incarnation OCD (1566-1618) Widow, Third Order Lay Discalced Carmelite Sister, Apostle of Charity, Mystic. Barbara is considered the Foundress of the French branch of Carmel. She was known for receiving visions and ecstasies and for supernatural gifts. Born on 1 February 1566 at Paris, France as Barbe Aurillot and died on 18 April 1618 at Pontoise, France of natural causes. Patronages – against impoverishment, against loss of parents, against poverty, parents separated from children, the poor, widows. Also known as – Le belle Acarie (the beautiful Acarie), as she was known in Paris, Barbara Aurillot, Barbara Avrillot, Barbe Acarie, Barbe Aurillot, Barbe Avrillot, Madame Acarie, Marie Acarie Marie or Mary of the Incarnation.
Barbara was the daughter of a French Government Official named Nicholas Aurillot,the Accountant General in the Paris Chamber and Chancellor of Marguerite of Navarre, first wife of Henri IV. Her mother, Marie Lhuillier. was a descendant of Etienne Marcel, the famous prévôt des marchands (Chief municipal Magistrate). She was educated at her Aunt’s Convent at Longchamps, the Minor Sisters of Humility of Our Lady.
Although Barbara was attracted to the religious life, at the age of 16 in 1684, through obedience, she was married to Pierre Acarie, the Viscount of Villemoran, a wealthy young man of high standing, who was a fervent Catholic and Government Treasury Official. She became the Mother of six children, three of whom became Carmelites Nuns and one a Priest.
Her husband, Pierre, supported the Catholic League, of which he was a staunch member, against Henry IV. Pierre was one of the sixteen who organised the resistance in Paris. When Henry became King, he seized the Acarie estates, impoverished the family and exiled Pierre from Paris, separated husband and father from his family. Barbara had to contend with creditors and irate businessmen. Although she had been severely injured due to a fall from her horse and medical treatment which had only made matters worse and left her an invalid for the rest of her life. Barbara still, legally challenged the matter and went to Court to fight and she won. The family was able to reclaim part of the their property and fortune.
Barbara was devoted to the writings of Saint Teresa of Avila. Her good works eventually won her the admiration and support of the same King Henry! who assisted her later when she was the greatest protagonist in bringing the reformed Carmelites of St Teresa to France. At this time, she received a vision of St Teresa who informed her that God wished Barbara to do this work.
At the beginning of the Seventeenth Century Madame Acarie was widely known for her virtue, her supernatural gifts and especially, for her charity towards the poor and the sick in the hospitals. To her residence came all the distinguished and devout people of the day. Among them was St Vincent de Paul and St Francis de Sales, the latter of whom became her Spiritual Counsellor.
Barbara was instrumental in bringing the Discalced Carmelites of Saint Teresa to France, founding five houses between 1604 and 1609. The Carmel spread rapidly and profoundly influenced the French religious and secular society of the day. In 1618, the year of Barbara’s death, Carmel numbered fourteen houses.
She also shared in two foundations of the day, that of the Oratory and of the Ursulines. She urged De Bérulle to refuse the tutorship of Louis XIII and on 11 November 1611, she, with St Vincent de Paul, assisted at the Mass of the installation of the Oratory of France.
Among the many postulants whom Mme Acarie received for the Carmel, there were some who had no vocation and she conceived the idea of getting them to undertake the education of young girls and broached her plan to her holy cousin, Mme. de Sainte-Beuve. To establish the new order they brought Ursulines to Paris and adopted their rule and name.
When Pierre died in 1613, his widow settled her affairs and begged leave to enter the Carmel, asking as a favour to be received as a lay sister in the poorest community. In 1614 she withdrew to the Monastery of Amiens, taking the name of Marie of the Incarnation. Her three daughters had preceded her into the cloister and one of them was Sub-prioress at Amiens. In 1616, by order of her Superiors for health reasons, she went to the Carmelite Convent at Pontoise, where she died at the aged of 52/53. St Francis de Sales considered her death in spiritual poverty as laudable as that of St Francis Xavier’s, who died in utter physical poverty.
Her cause was introduced at Rome in 1627 and she was Beatified on 24 April 1791 by Pope Pius VI – her Feast is widely celebrated in Paris on 18 April. Her mortal remains are in the Chapel of the Carmelites of Pontoise.
It has been said that the vigorous and saintly Madame Acarie, provided the first definite impulse towards that interior growth which made the exquisite and urbane St Francis de Sales, a fit guide for the soul of St Jane Frances de Chantal.
St Agia of Hainault St Anthia of Illyria St Antusa of Constantinople Saint Apollonius the Apologist
St Athanasia of Aegina
Blessed Barbara Aurillot / Marie of the Incarnation O.Carm (1566-1618) Widow, Lay Carmelite Sister St Bitheus St Calocerus of Brescia St Cogitosus St Corebus St Eleuterius of Illyria St Elpidius of Melitene St Eusebius of Fano St Galdinus of Milan St Gebuinus of Lyons St Genocus St Hermogenes of Melitene
Blessed Idesbald of Dunes O.Cist (c1095-1167) Cistercian Priest and Abbot of Ten Duinen Abbey, Our Lady of the Dunes. The Roman Martyrology states: “In Bruges in Flanders, in today’s Belgium, Blessed Idesbaldo, Abbot, who, soon became a widower and exercised for another thirty years, duties in the palace of the Counts, entered the Monastery of Dune at a mature age, which he held holy, as the third Abbot for twelve years.” Biography: https://anastpaul.com/2021/04/18/saint-of-the-day-18-april-blessed-idesbald-of-dunes-o-cist-c-1095-1167/
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