Our Lenten Journey with the Angels and the Saints – 29 February – Thursday in the Second Week of Lent – Jeremias 17:5-10, Luke 16:19-31 – Scripture search here: https://www.drbo.org/
“ I am the Lord Who search the heart and prove the reins: Who give to everyone according to his way and according to the fruit of his devices.” Jeremias 17:10
“The poor man died and was carried by the Angels to Abraham’s bosom. The rich man also died and was buried and in Hades, being in torment, he lifted up his eyes and saw Abraham, far off and Lazarus in his bosom. …” Luke 16:22-23
True Wealth, True Poverty
St Augustine (354-430) Father & Doctor of the Church
“When I say that God does not incline His ear to the rich man, do not go so far as to think, my friends that God fails to answer those who have gold and silver, servants and lands. If they were born in that state and occupy that class of society, let them call to mind the saying of the Apostle Paul: “Tell the rich in the present world, not to yield to pride” (1Tm 6:17). People who do not yield to pride are poor before God, Who inclines His ear to the poor and needy (Ps 85:1). Indeed, they know their hope does not lie in gold or silver, or in those things, of which they have an abundance, for a time. It suffices that possessions are not causing their loss and that, if they do nothing for their salvation, at least they are not an obstacle to it … Therefore, when someone despises those things that feed one’s pride, he is one of God’s poor and God inclines His ear towards him, for He knows the troubles of his heart.
It is true, my brethren that the poor man Lazarus, covered with sores, who lay at the rich man’s door, was carried by Angels into the bosom of Abraham. This is what we read and believe. Whereas ,the rich man, who was clothed in purple and fine linen and feasted splendidly everyday, was thrown down to the torments of hell.
But was it really the merit of his destitution which won for the poor man, his being carried away by Angels? And was the rich man delivered up to torment because of his lavish lifestyle? We need to acknowledge that it was humility which was honoured in that poor man and pride which was punished in the rich man!” – (Discourses on the Psalms 85,3).
Our Morning Offering – 29 February –“The Month of the Most Holy and Blessed Trinity” – Thursday of the Second Week in Lent
Daily Morning Prayer Of St Francis de Sales (1567-1622) Doctor Caritatis
Lord, I lay before Thee my weak heart, which Thou fills with good desires. Thou knows that I am unable to bring the same to good effect, unless Thou bless and prosper them and, therefore, O Loving Father, I entreat Thee to help me by the merits and Passion of Thy dear Son, to Whose honour I would devote this day and my whole life. Amen
Saint of the Day – 29 February – Blessed Antonia of Florence OSC (1401-1472) Widow, Abbess of the Monastery of Corpus Christi in L’Aquila. Born in 1401 in Florence, Italy and died on 29 February 1472 in her Convent at Aquila, Italy of natural causes, her Feast Day is, therefore, celebrated on 28 February in non-Leap years. Her body is incorrupt. Antonia was Beatified in 1847 by Pope Pius IX.
Blessed Antonia of Florence was born of a noble family in Florence, Italy, in 1401. She entered the married state at a very early age, in compliance with the wish of her parents. She and her husband had one child, a son. When her husband died in 1428, she allowed nothing to induce her to contract a second marriage but resolved to withdraw from the world and live only for God and the salvation of her soul.
These were the years in which Saint Bernardino of Siena, with some companions, spread the Observance movement and the return of an original “Franciscanism” in many Italian cities. Most of the sermons were given in the square, the churches were unable to contain the crowds that punctually flocked. Brother Bernardino preached in Santa Croce in Florence from 8 March to 3 May 1425. Antonia, listening to him, responded yes, without conditions, to God’s call. She had known the experience of married life, she was a mother, but the Lord gave a turning point to her life. Four years later, once family matters were settled, she entered
In 1429, after ensuring the comfort and care of her son, she entered the Convent of Tertiaries which Blessed Angelina had ounded at Florence. Here she so distinguished herself by virtue and wisdom that after a few years, the Superiors called her to Foligno to preside as Superior of the Convent there.
A fresco of Blessed Antonia – c1500
Although, in her humility, she found it difficult to accept the advancement, she was happy to carry out the appointment under the guidance of Blessed Angelina, who, as Superior General of the several Convents she had founded, dwelt at Foligno. Antonia so availed herself of the opportunity to profit by the holy example and the good counsel of the Foundress that she could be honoured as an example of how a Superior. should conduct herself and her responsibilities.
In consequence, after a few years, Blessed Antonia of Florence was sent to establish a Convent in Aquila. There, under her maternal direction, a veritable sanctuary of holiness budded forth, the fame of which brought joy to that City and the entire vicinity.
Although the religious community zealously served God according to the rule of the Third Order, it did not satisfy Blessed Antonia in her yearning for personal perfection. She felt strongly drawn to a stricter life, to more perfect poverty and to more complete renunciation of the world, as practiced in the Order of St Clare.
At a visitation she communicated her desire to her spiritual Coinfessor, St John of Capistrano OFM (1386-1456). He approved it and, at his suggestion and with the sanction of the Holy Father, in 1447, a new Convent of the Poor Clares was founded at Aquila which ,Antonia with twelve consecrated virgins, entered. She was appointed Superior and Abbess but, while she occupied the highest place, she always strove to find the last. The lowliest tasks, worn clothes, the most disagreeable occupations she assigned to herself, while she shunned all honour and distinction. In all she did and said, there shone forth the most sincere humility.
Just as pronounced was the patience with which she bore the burdens of her position, the weakness of all her subjects, the many importunities of her relatives and finally, the sufferings of a lingering illness.
While she was extraordinarily severe with herself, she possessed truly motherly concern for her Sisters. They, in turn, clung to her with filial love and, when after seven years of administration, she was relieved of the burden, she was still considered, by the sisters, as their mother and model.
God distinguished His faithful servant with special graces. Her prayer amounted to perfect contemplation of heavenly things, the ardour of her devotion sometimes causing her to be raised aloft bodily. Once a glowing sphere was seen suspended over her head.
Blessed Antonia of Florence reached the age of seventy-one years and died on 29 February 1472, addressing words of comfort and holy exhortation to her sorrowing fellow Sister, who were gathered around her.
Numerous miracles occurred at her tomb and her body is a constant miracle, for, up to the present time, it is preserved wholly incorrupt and is of an extraordinary freshness and beauty which is emphasised by the open eyes. The uninterrupted veneration which began with the day of her death received the sanction of Pope Pius IX.
St Oswald of Worcester (Died 992) Monk, Archbishop of York from 972-992, as well as simultaneously being the Bishop of Worcester and a leading figure in the reform of the Anglo-Saxon Church which took place in the second half of the tenth Century. He died on 29 February in 992 of natural causes, a leap year, therefore, his Feast is celebrated on the 28th. (Feast Day 29 February in a Leap Year) St Oswald’s Life: https://anastpaul.com/2023/02/28/saint-of-the-day-28-february-saint-oswald-of-worcester-c912-992-bishop/
Thought for the Day – 28 February – The Spiritual Combat (1589) – Dom Lorenzo Scupoli OSM (c1530-1610)
“None shall be crowned who has not fought well.” 2 Tim 2: 5
XXV: … The Soldier of Christ Must Avoid All which May Disturb His Peace of Mind (Part One)
Antonio de Pereda y Salgado – The Liberation of St Peter by an Angel
“When we have lost our peace of mind, we should do our utmost to recover it; neither, is there any accident of life which should reasonably have power to deprive us of that peace, or even to trouble it. Over our own sins, we have indeed cause to mourn deeply but, our sorrow, as I have shown more than once, should be calm and in like manner, without any disquiet but with a holy feeling of charity, should we compassionate other sinners and weep, at least inwardly, over their offenses.
As to other sad and trying events, such as sickness, wounds, or loss of dearest friends, pestilence, fire, war, or suchlike evils – although these being painful to nature, are, for the most part, shunned by the men of this world, yet may we, by Divine grace, not only desire but, even love them, as just chastisements upon the wicked and occasions of virtue to the just. For, therefore, does our Lord God take pleasure in sending them and thus borne forward by His will, we shall pass, with a calm and quiet spirit, through all the bitterness and contradictions of this life. And be assured that all disquietude, on our part, is displeasing in His sight for, of whatever kind it be, it is never free from imperfection and always springs from some evil root of self-love.
Keep, therefore, a sentinel always on the watch, who, as soon as he shall discern the approach of anything likely to disquiet or disturb you, may give you a signal, to take up your weapons of defence!
And consider that, all these evils,and many others of a like kind, although outwardly they appear to be such, are not indeed real evils, nor can they rob us of any real good but are all ordered, or permitted by God, for the righteous ends of which we have spoken, or for others, most wise and holy, although beyond our power to discern and understand.
So, may the most untoward accident work for us much good, if we do but keep our souls in peace and tranquillity, otherwise, all our exercises will produce little, or no fruit!”
Our Lenten Journey with the Angels and the Saints – 28 February – St Gabriel of the Sorrowful Virgin/Gabriel Possenti CP (1838-1862) Confessor, – 1 John 2:14-17; Mark 10:13-21 – Scripture search here: https://www.drbo.org/
“He will not deprive, of good things, those who walk in innocence. O Lord of hosts, blessed is the man who trusts in Thee!” Psalm 83:13
“One thing is lacking to thee; go, sell whatever thou has and give to the poor and thou shalt have treasure in Heaven and come, follow Me.” Mark 10:21
Let Us Hate Our Sins and Love Him Who Will Exact Punishment for Them.
St Augustine (354-430) Father and Doctor of Grace
“What then should the Christian do? He ought to use the world, not become its slave. And what does this mean? It means having, as though not having.
So says the Apostle: “My brethren, the appointed time is short — from now on, let those who have wives, live as though they had none and those who mourn, as though they were not mourning and those who rejoice, as though they were not rejoicing and those who buy, as though they had no goods and those who deal with this world, as though they had no dealings with it.”
For the form of this world is passing away. But I wish you to be without anxiety. He who is without anxiety waits without fear until his Lord comes. For what sort of love of Christ is it to fear His coming? Brothers, do we not have to blush for shame? We love Him, yet we fear His coming! Are we really certain that we love Him? Or do we love our sins more? Therefore, let us hate our sins and love Him Who, will exact punishment for them. He will come whether we wish it or not. Do not think that because He is not coming just now, He will not come at all. He will come, you know not when and provided He finds you prepared, your ignorance of the time of His coming, will not be held against you.” (A Discourse on Psalm 95)
One Minute Reflection – 28 February – “The Month of the Most Holy and Blessed Trinity”– St Gabriel of the Sorrowful Virgin/Gabriel Possenti CP (1838-1862) Confessor, – 1 John 2:14-17; Mark 10:13-21 – Scripture search here: https://www.drbo.org/
“One thing is lacking to thee; go, sell whatever thou has and give to the poor and thou shalt have treasure in Heaven and come, follow Me.” – Mark 10:21
REFLECTION – “Blessed is the poor man who cried and whom the Lord heard. Blessed is the man poor in offence. Blessed is the man poor in vices. Blessed is the poor man, in whom the prince of this world finds nothing. Blessed is the poor man who, is like that Poor Man Who, although He was rich, became poor for our sake. Matthew fully revealed this when he said, “Blessed are the poor in spirit.” One poor in spirit is not puffed up, is not exalted in the mind of his own flesh. This Beatitude is first, when I have laid aside every sin and I have taken off all malice and I am content with simplicity, destitute of evils. All that remains is that I regulate my conduct. For what good does it do me to lack worldly goods, unless I am meek and gentle?
Although there are many charms of delights in riches, yet there are more incentives to practice virtues. Although virtue does not require assistance and the contribution of the poor person, is more commended, than the generosity of the rich, yet with the authority of the heavenly saying, He condemns, not those who have riches but those who do not know how to use them. The pauper is more praiseworthy who gives with eager compassion and is not restrained, by the bolts of looming scarcity. He thinks that he who has enough for nature, does not lack. So the rich person is the more guilty, who does not give thanks to God, for what he has received but vainly hides wealth given for the common use and conceals it, in buried treasures. Then the offence consists, not in the wealth but in the attitude.
Purify yourself with your tears. Wash yourselves with mourning. If you weep for yourself, another will not weep for you…. One who is a sinner weeps for himself and rebukes himself, that he may become righteous, for just people accuse themselves of sin. Let us pursue order because, it is written, “Set in order love in me.” I have laid down sin. I have tempered my conduct. I have wept for my transgressions. I begin to hunger. I hunger for righteousness. The sick, when he is seriously ill, does not hunger because, the pain of the illness excludes hunger. What is the hunger for righteousness? What is the bread of which it is said, “I have been young and am old and I have not seen the righteous man forsaken, nor his seed begging bread?” Surely, one who is hungry, seeks increase of strength. What greater increase of virtue is there, than the rule of righteousness?” – St Ambrose (340-397) Bishop of Milan, Father and Doctor of the Church( Exposition on the Gospel of Luke, 5).
PRAYER – O God, Who taught blessed Gabriel to meditate continually on the sorrows of Thy most sweet Mother and Who, through her, exalted him by the glory of a holy life and miracles; grant us, we beseech Thee, through his intercession and example so to share in the sorrows of Thy Mother that her motherly protection may save us. Through Jesus Christ, Thy Son our Lord, Who lives and reigns with Thee, in the unity of the Holy Ghost, God, world without end. Amen (Collect).
Our Morning Offering – 28 February – St Gabriel of Our Lady of Sorrows/Gabriel Possenti CP (1838-1862) Confessor
O Mother of Sorrows, Stand by Me in My Last Agony By St Gabriel Francis Possenti of Our Lady of Sorrows (1838-1862)
O Mother of Sorrows, by the anguish and love with which thou did stand at the Cross of Jesus, stand by me in my last agony. To thy maternal heart I commend the last three hours of my life. Offer these hours to the Eternal Father in union with the agony of our dearest Lord, in atonement for my sins. Offer to the Eternal Father the most precious blood of Jesus, mingled with your tears on Calvary, that I may obtain the grace of receiving Holy Communion with the most perfect love and contrition before my death and that I may breathe forth my soul in the adorable presence of Jesus. Dearest Mother, when the moment of my death has at last come, present me as your child to Jesus. Ask Him to forgive me for having offended Him, for I knew not what I did. Beg Him to receive me into His kingdom of glory to be united with Him forever. Amen
Saint of the Day – 28 February – Blessed Villana de’Botti OP (1332-1361) Widow, Mother, Penitent, Mystic, Lay Religious of the Order of Preachers. She was gifted with visions of Our Lady and of the Saints and was granted the gift of prophecy. Born in 1332 in Florence, Italy and died on 29 January 1361 of natural causes. Patronage – of Florence.
Villana de’Botti was born in 1332 in Florence in the Tuscany region of central Italy. She was the daughter of the rich Florentine merchant Andrea di Lapo de’Botti. As a child she was exceptionally pious and, at the age of thirteen, she ran away from home to enter a Convent. But her father objected to this and had her brought back. Not long after, in July 1351 he had her married to Rosso di Piero Benintendi.
After she married, she seemed completely transformed. She indulged herself completely in worldliness and vanity and even debauchery. But it is said that one day she was going out dressed in a beautiful dress adorned with pearls and precious stones. She looked in the mirror, but instead of her own reflection, she saw a demon (another version says she saw her stained soul). The same image appeared in a second and a third mirror. Immediately Villana repented of her sins, her vices and evil habits. She tore off her dress and put on the simplest outfit she could find. She then went to the Dominican Church of Santa Maria Novella and made a general Confession. Not long after, she joined the Dominican Tertiaries.
Her conversion was complete but she remained faithful to her marital duties. However, she spent all her free time in prayer and reading spiritual literature, studying — especially the biographies of Saints and St Paul ‘s letters and, she made great progress in the spiritual life. She tried to beg for the poor in the streets but was prevented from doing so by her horrified family. She appears to have had visions and ecstasies, and despite opposition in certain camps, she was locally venerated as a saint even before she died. After she became a widow, she had to endure slander from some of her companions.
She died on 29 January 1361 in Florence while the words from the Passion of Christ: “He bowed his head and gave up His spirit” were read to her at her request. (The painting below depicts Bl Villana and companions mourning the Death of our Saviour). Her body was carried to the Church of Santa Maria Novella, where it was besieged for a month by large crowds who fought to get hold of pieces of her clothing and made it impossible for any burial to take place.
Mastro dell’Annunciazione di Fiesole, compianto della Beata Villana
She is buried there in a marble tomb made by Bernardo Rossellino. She was Beatified on 27 March 1824 when her cult was confirmed by Pope Leo XII (1823-1829). Her Feast Day is 28 February.
St Justus the Potter St Llibio St Macarius the Potter St Maidoc St Marana of Beroea
St Oswald of Worcester (Died 992) Monk, Archbishop of York from 972-992, as well as simultaneously being the Bishop of Worcester and a leading figure in the reform of the Anglo-Saxon Church which took place in the second half of the tenth Century. He died on 29 February in 992 of natural causes, a leap year, therefore, his Feast is celebrated on the 28th. (Feast Day 29 February in a Leap Year) St Oswald’s Life: https://anastpaul.com/2023/02/28/saint-of-the-day-28-february-saint-oswald-of-worcester-c912-992-bishop/
St Proterius of Alexandria St Pupulus of Alexandria
St Ruellinus of Treguier St Rufinus the Potter St Serapion of Alexandria St Sillan of Bangor St Theophilus the Potter Blessed Villana de’Botti OP (1332-1361) Widow, Mother, Penitent, Mystic.
Martyrs of Alexandria – A number of clerics and layman who died as Martyrs of charity for ministering to the sick during a plague that ravaged Alexandria, Egypt in 261.
Martyrs of Antwerp – 14 Christians who were Martyred together. We know nothing about them but the names Alexander, Anicetus, Cyriacus, Eulalia, Faustus, Genesius, Hirena, Macarius, Mauritius, Modestus, Placidus, Rochus, Symforian and Victorinus. Died in Rome, Italy, date unknown. Their Relics were transferred and enshrined in Antwerp, Belgium.
Martyrs of Corinth – A group of Christians Martyred together in Corinth, Greece. The only information we have about them are the names Basilia, Betha, Caius, Claudius, Diodorus, Donatus, Enuclus, Felix, Hermes, Januaria, Januarius, Maccaris, Maninlia, Mansuetus, Nicophorus, Papias, Quinquianus, Rufunia, Serapion, Servilia, Silvana, Stercola, Tella, Veneria, Victor and Victorinus.
Thought for the Day – 27 February – The Spiritual Combat (1589) – Dom Lorenzo Scupoli OSM (c1530-1610)
“None shall be crowned who has not fought well.” 2 Tim 2: 5
XXIV: … Of the Ways to Rule the Tongue
“It is very necessary that the tongue be well bridled and regulated, as we are all much inclined, to let it run wildly on, upon those things which are most pleasing to the senses.
MUCH SPEAKINGsprings, ordinarily, from pride. We persuade ourselves that we know a great deal; we take delight in our own conceits and endeavour, by needless repetitions, to impress them upon the minds of other, that we may exercise a mastery over them, as though they needed instruction from us. It is not possible, in a few words, to express, the many evils which arise from overmuch speaking. TALKATIVENESS is the mother of sloth, the sign of ignorance and folly, the door of slander ,the minister of falsehood, the destroyer of fervent devotion. A multitude of words adds strength to evil passions, by which, again, the tongue is the more easily led to indiscreet speech. Do not indulge in long conversations with those who are unwilling to hear you, lest you weary them; nor with those who love to listen to you, lest you exceed the bounds of modesty.
AVOID LOUD and assertive speaking, which is not only odious in itself but, is also a sign of presumption and vanity.
NEVER SPEAK OF YOURSELF or your doings, nor of your kindred, except in case of absolute necessity and then, with all possible brevity and reserve. If others seem to speak overmuch of themselves, try to put a favourable construction upon their conduct but, do not imitate it, even though, their words seem to tend to self-humiliation and self-accusation.
SPEAK AS LITTLE as maybe possible, of your neighbour, or of anything concerning him, unless an occasion occurs to say something in his praise.
SPEAK WILLINGLY OF GOD and especially, of His Love and Goodness but with fear and caution, lest even here, you fall into error. Rather, take pleasure in listening, while others speak of Him, treasuring their words in the depth of your heart.
LET THE SOUND of men’s voices strike only upon your ear – meanwhile, you should lift up your heart to God and, if you must, listen to their discourse, in order to understand and reply to it, yet neglect not to cast your eye in thought to Heaven, where God dwells and, contemplate His loftiness, as He ever beholds your vileness.
CONSIDER WELL the things your heart suggests to you, before they pass onto your tongue – for you will perceive that many of them would be better suppressed altogether and never reach the ears of anyone! Nay, I can still further assure you that not a few, even of those which you will then think it expedient to pronounce aloud, would be far better buried in silence and so, you will perceive, upon reflection, when the opportunity for speaking is past.
SILENCE IS A STRONG FORTRESS, in the spiritual combat and a sure pledge of victory.
SILENCE IS THE FRIEND,of him who distrusts himself and trusts in God; it is the guard of holy prayer and a wonderful aid in the practice of virtue. In order to acquire the practice of silence, consider frequently the great benefits which arise therefrom and, the evils and dangers of verbosity Love this virtue and in order to acquire the habit of it, keep silence occasionally, even at times when you might lawfully speak, provided this be not to your own prejudice, or to that of others. And you will be greatly helped to achieve this virtue, by withdrawing from the society of men; for, in the place of this, you will have the society of Angels, Saints and of God Himself!
Lastly, remember the combat which you have in hand that, seeing you have so much to do, you may the more willingly refrain from all superfluous words.”
Our Lenten Journey with the Angels and the Saints – 27 February– Tuesday of the Second Week in Lent – Scripture search here: https://www.drbo.org/
“The troubles of my heart are multiplied, deliver me from my necessities. See my abjection and my labour and forgive me all my sins.” Psalm 24:17-18
“Whoever exalts himself will be humbled and whoever humbles himself will be exalted.” Matthew 23:12
PENANCE “ … Come to Our Help, Watchful Ward of Our Lives”
Custodes Hominum Psallimus Angelos Praise We the Guardian Angels of Men By St Robert Bellarmine SJ (1542-1621) Archbishop of Capua, Theologian Doctor of the Church
Angel-guardians of men, spirits and powers we sing, Whom our Father hath sent, aids to our weakly frame, Heavenly friends and guides, help from on high to bring, Lest we fail through the foeman’s wile.
He, the spoiler of souls, Angel-traitor of old, Cast in merited wrath out of his honoured place, Burns with envy and hate, seeking their souls to gain Whom God’s mercy invites to Heaven.
Therefore, come to our help, watchful ward of our lives: Turn aside from the land, God to thy care confides Sickness and woe of soul, yea and what else of ill Peace of heart to its folk denies.
Now to the Holy Three praise evermore resound: Under Whose Hand Divine resteth the triple world Governed in wondrous wise, glory be Theirs and Might While the ages unending run. Amen
This Hymn/Prayer/Reflection by St Robert Bellarmine,was added to the Roman Breviary in 1608, by command of Pope Paul V. It is for Vespers in the Office for “the Holy Guardian Angels. Double of the second class, 2 October.
Quote/s of the Day – 27 February – Tuesday in the Second Week of Lent – Feruial Day – 3 Kings 17:8-16; Matthew 23:1-12 – Scripture search here: https://www.drbo.org/
“Whoever exalts himself will be humbled and whoever humbles himself will be exalted.”
Matthew 23:12
“The one sole thing, in myself, in which I glory, is that I see in myself, nothing, in which I can glory.”
St Catherine of Genoa (1447-1510)
“Humility is not just about self-mistrust but about the entrusting of ourselves to God. Distrusting ourselves and our own strength produces trust in God and from that trust, generosity of soul is born.”
St Francis de Sales (1567-1622) Doctor of Charity
“The most powerful weapon to conquer the devil is humility. For, as he does not know at all, how to employ it, neither does he know how to defend himself from it.”
One Minute Reflection – 27 February – Tuesday in the Second Week of Lent – Ferial Day – 3 Kings 17:8-16; Matthew 23:1-12 – Scripture search here: https://www.drbo.org/
“Whoever exalts himself will be humbled and whoever humbles himself will be exalted.” … Matthew 23:12
REFLECTION – “Humility is a secret power the saints receive when they bring all their life’s ascetical practices to a successful conclusion. For indeed, this power is only bestowed on those who attain to the perfection of virtue, through the strength of grace … It is the same power the blessed Apostles received in the form of fire. Our Saviour commanded them, in fact, not to leave Jerusalem until they had received the power from on high (Acts 2:3; 1:4). Here Jerusalem stands for virtue — the power is humility and the power from on high, is the Paraclete, in other words the Consoler Spirit.
Now this is exactly what Sacred Scripture had said – these Mysteries are revealed to the humble (Lk 10:21). To the humble it is given to receive, within themselves, that Spirit of revelation which uncovers mysteries. That is why certain saints have said that humility is that which brings the soul to fulfilment, in divine contemplation. So let no-one start thinking they have attained complete humility because, at some moment, a thought of compunction came to them or because they shed a few tears …. But if someone has overcome every contrary spirit …, if he has overturned and subjected all the strongholds of the enemy and, if he then feels that he has received that grace in which “the Spirit bears witness to our spirit” (Rom 8:16) in the Apostle Paul’s words, then there is the perfection of humility. Blessed are they who possess it. For they continually embrace the breast of Jesus (cf Jn 13:25).” … St Isaac the Syrian of Nineveh (c 613-c 700) Bishop of Nineveh, Monk at Mosul – Ascetical discourses, 1st series, no 20
PRAYER – From all perils of soul and body defend us, O Lord, we beseech Thee and by the intercession of the blessed and glorious ever Virgin Mary, Mother of God, of blessed Joseph, of Thy blessed Apostles Peter and Paul and of all the Saints, graciously grant us safety and peace that all adversities and errors being overcome, Thine Church may serve Thee in security and freedom. Through t Jesus Christ, Thy Son our Lord, Who lives and reigns with Thee, in the unity of the Holy Ghost, God, world without end. Amen (Collect).
Our Morning Offering – 27 February – “The Month of the Most Holy and Blessed Trinity”
Morning Prayer To Be Conformed to the Divine Will Unknown Author Breviary Prayer
Most Holy Trinity, Godhead IndIvisible, Father, Son, and Holy Ghost, our first beginning and our last end, Thou hast made us in accord with Thine Own Image and likeness.
Grant that all the thoughts of our minds, all the words of our tongues, all the affections of our hearts and all the actions of our being may always be conformed to Thine Holy Will.
So may we, having seen Thee veiled in appearance here below, by means of faith, come at last to contemplate Thee face-to-face, in the perfect possession of Thee, forever in Heaven. Amen
Saint of the Day – 27 February – Saint Baldomerus of Saint Just (Died c650) SubDeacon, Lay Brother, Blacksmith. Born in Ouvacou Auditiac, near Lyon in France and died in Lyon in c650. Patronages – of Blacksmiths, Lyon, France and Nuremberg, Germany. Also known as – Baldomerus of Lyons, Baldimerus… Baldomer… Baldomero… Baudemer… Galmier…Garmier… Germier… Gaumier… Geaumier… Waldimer… Waldimerus…
Baldomerus was born in the village of Ouvacou Auditiac, near Lugdunum , now Lyon which was then part of the County of Forez . Already as a young man he practiced the trade of a Blacksmith.
He lived poorly himself, nevertheless, his care and attention was always concerned with the poor, whom he continually assisted as much as he could. In the absence of anything else, sometimes he even gave them his work tools.
He was devoted to prayer, meditation and reading the Holy Scriptures and his favourite phrase was: “Always thanks be to God.” He had a very cheerful and lively character. One day he met the Abbot Viventius (who later became the Bishop of Lyon), who, in fact, had visited the village particularly to meet our Saint as he had been attracted by the fame of sanctity that had already spread around Baldomerus. The Abbot wanted him to become a Monk in his Monastery of Saint Just in Lyon. Baldomerus immediately left his forge and followed him.
Bishop Gaudry (Ganderic) consecrated him as SubDeacon, overriding Baldomerus’ objections based on his feeling of unworthiness. He wanted to remain a lowly Lay Brother but he was able to continue to practice his craft – a much-needed art, even today but especially in the days of horses and wagons.
Statue in the Church of Montanay near Lyon
After a life of prayers, fasting and sacrifices, he died around the middle of the 7th Century, between 642 and 660
He was buried by the Bishop of Lyon, Viventius II in the Church of the Monastery of Saint-Just. His Relics were immediately the object of great veneration by the people, until the 16th Century, when they were dispersed and burned by the Huguenots. Of them, only one arm was saved which had previously been detached from the body and taken to the Church of Saint-Galmier (Baldomerus), a Town in the Loire which bears his name and is famous for its Badoit table water. ..
St Abundius of Rome St Alexander of Rome St Alnoth St Antigonus of Rome St Baldomerus of Saint Just (Died c650) SubDeacon, Monk St Basilios of Constantinople St Comgan Bl Emmanuel of Cremona Bishop St Fortunatus of Rome St Herefrith of Lindsey St Honorina St John of Gorze St Luke of Messina
Blessed William Richardson (1572–1603) English Priest, Martyr. He was Beatified on 15 December 1929 by Pope Pius XI. Born in Yorkshire and died by being hanged, drawn and quartered on 27 February 1603 at Tyburn, London, aged just 31. William owns the dubious honour of being the last Martyr under Elizabeth I’s barbaric policy of murdering Catholics and especially Priests, in this manner. His Life and Death: https://anastpaul.com/2023/02/27/saint-of-the-day-27-february-blessed-william-richardson-1572-1603-english-priest-martyr/
Thought for the Day – 26 February – The Spiritual Combat (1589) – Dom Lorenzo Scupoli OSM (c1530-1610)
“None shall be crowned who has not fought well.” 2 Tim 2: 5
XXIII: … Of Using the Senses to Advantage in Diverse Situations (Part Four)
“The following which are divided for morning, noon and evening, belong to the Passion of our Lord, for we are deeply bound, frequently, to remember the sorrow endured by our Lady, on this account and most ungrateful are we, to neglect it.
+++ In the evening then, recall to mind the anguish of that most pure Virgin at the bloody sweat, the capture and the hidden sorrows of her blessed Son.
+++ In the morning, compassionate her affliction at His presentation before Pilate and Herod. His condemnation and the bearing of His Cross.
+++ At midday, meditate upon that sword of anguish which wounded the heart of that disconsolate Mother at the Crucifixion and Death of the Lord and, the cruel piercing of His most Sacred Side.
These meditations on our Lady’s sorrows may be made from the evening of Thursday till the Saturday at noon, the others on the remaining days of the week.
I leave all this, however, to your particular devotion and the occasions offered by external things and, to express, in few words, the method by which you must regulate your senses, take care in all things and under all circumstances that you be moved and drawn, not by hatred or love of them but, by the Will of God alone, loving and hating only that which He wills you to hate or love.
And observe that I have not given you these methods for regulating the senses, for you to dwell upon them; for your mind should almost always be fixed upon the Lord, Who wills that, by frequent acts, you should apply yourself to conquer your enemies and your sinful passions, both by resisting them and, by making acts of the contrary virtues but, I have taught them to you that you may know how to rule yourself on needful occasions. For you must know that there is little fruit in a multiplicity of spiritual exercises; which, however excellent in themselves, often lead to mental perplexity, self-love, instability and the snare of the devil.”
Quote/s of the Day – 26 February – Matthew 13:44-52 – Scripture search here: https://www.drbo.org/
“The Kingdom of Heaven is like a treasure hidden in a field.”
Matthew 13:44
“Do you wish your prayer to fly toward God? Make for it two wings – fasting and almsgiving!”
St Augustine (354-430) Father and Doctor of Grace
“What is a man’s treasure but the heaping up of profits and the fruit of his toil? For, whatever a man sows, this too will he reap and each man’s gain, matches his toil and where delight and enjoyment are found, there the heart’s desire is attached. Now, there are many kinds of wealth and a variety of grounds for rejoicing – every man’s treasure is that, which he desires. If it is based on earthly ambitions, its acquisition makes men not blessed but wretched. … By distributing what might be superfluous to support the poor, they are amassing imperishable riches, so that what they have discreetly given, cannot be subject to loss. They have properly placed those riches, where their heart is – it is a most blessed thing, to work to increase such riches, rather than to fear that they may pass away.”
St Pope Leo the Great (400-461) Father and Doctor of the Church
“Let your tongue be poor with them in converse but let your hands be rich to distribute out of your abundance!”
Our Lenten Journey with the Angels and the Saints – 26 February – St Margaret of Cortona (1247–1297) Penitent – Sirach 51:13-17, Matthew 13:44-52 – Scripture search here: https://www.drbo.org/
“The Kingdom of Heaven is like a treasure hidden in a field; he who finds it, hides it and in his joy, goes and sells all that he has and buys that field.” Matthew 13:44
“For where your treasure is, there also will your heart be.” Luke 12:34
ALMSGIVING
St Peter Chrysologus (c400-450) Bishop of Ravenna Father and “Doctor of Homilies”
“All this is what that treasure brings about. Either through almsgiving, it raises the heart of a man into Heaven, or through greed, it buries it in the earth!
That is why He said, “For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” O man, send your treasure on, send it ahead into Heaven, or else your God-given soul will be buried in the earth. Gold comes from the depth of the earth — the soul, from the highest Heaven. Clearly, it is better to carry the gold to where the soul resides, than to bury the soul in the mine of the gold. That is why God orders those, who will serve in His army here below, to fight as men stripped of concern for riches and unencumbered by anything. To these he has granted the privilege of reigning in Heaven.” (Sermon 22)
One Minute Reflection – 26 February – “The Month of the Most Holy and Blessed Trinity” –St Margaret of Cortona (1247–1297) Penitent – Sirach 51:13-17, Matthew 13:44-52 – Scripture search here: https://www.drbo.org/
“Again, the Kingdom of Heaven is like a merchant in search of fine pearls. When he finds a single pearl of great price, he goes and sells all that he has and buys it.” – Matthew 13:45-46
REFLECTION – “For the man who loves God, it is sufficient to please the One he loves and, there is no greater recompense to be sought, than the loving itself. For love is from God, by the very fact, that God Himself is love. The good and chaste soul is so happy to be filled with Him that it desires to take delight in nothing else. For what the Lord says is very true: – ‘Where your treasure is, there also will your heart be.’
What is a man’s treasure but the heaping up of profits and the fruit of his toil? For whatever a man sows, this too will he reap and each man’s gain, matches his toil and where delight and enjoyment are found, there the heart’s desire is attached. Now there are many kinds of wealth and a variety of grounds for rejoicing – every man’s treasure is that, which he desires. If it is based on earthly ambitions, its acquisition makes men not blessed but wretched.
But those who enjoy the things that are above and eternal, rather than earthly and perishable, possess an incorruptible, hidden store, of which the Prophet speaks: ‘Our treasure and salvation have come, wisdom and instruction and piety, from the Lord: these are the treasures of justice.’ Through these, with the help of God’s grace, even earthly possessions are transformed into heavenly blessings. It is a fact that, many people use the wealth, which is either rightfully left to them or otherwise, acquired, as a tool of devotion. By distributing what might be superfluous to support the poor, they are amassing imperishable riches, so that what they have discreetly given, cannot be subject to loss. They have properly placed those riches, where their heart is, – it is a most blessed thing, to work to increase such riches, rather than to fear that they may pass away.” – St Pope Leo the Great (400-461) Bishop of Rome and Great Western Father and Doctor of the Church (An excerpt from Sermon 92).
PRAYER – Grant, we beseech Thee, O Lord our God, that we may imitate Thy holy Penitent Margaret, may we at least present to her, our humble homage. Through Jesus Christ, Thy Son our Lord, Who lives and reigns with Thee, in the unity of the Holy Ghost, God, world without end. Amen (Collect).
Saint of the Day – 26 February – Blessed Ulrik of Obermarchtal O.Praem. (Died 1187) Priest, Prior. Born in the early 12th Century Germany and died on 26 February 1187 in Swabia, Germany of natural causes. Also known as – Ulric, Ulrich.
All the Saints and Blesseds of the Norbertines
Ulrik was born at the beginning of the 12th Century in Germany. He joined the Premonstratensians – the Norbertines. He became a Canon in their Monastery, Mönchsrot in Rot on the river Rot in Upper Swabia in Baden-Württemberg, modern Germany.
This Monastery was founded in 1126 by the Founder of the Order, St Norbert of Xanten, the later Bishop of Magdeburg, on land he had received from Hemma of Wildenburg. The Monastery’s first Prior or Provost was Saint Burchard (1126-1140). Burchard was succeeded by the Blessed Odino (1140-1182). At the same time, the Monastery was upgraded from a Priory to an Abbey and he became the Monastery’s first Abbot.
In 1171, our Blessed Ulrik was sent by Abbot Odino to the new foundation of Obermarchtal in Swabia (now in the state of Baden-Württemberg, Germany) where, in 1179, he succeeded the Blessed Eberhard (1171-1179) as pthe Prior. He was a good shepherd who was concerned with the spiritual life of his Monastery and who carefully followed the Rules of the Order. Under a picture where Ulrik is portrayed as blissful, it says:
“In virtute silentii ita emicuit, ut sese / supra se levarit; ita mortificatus vixit ut ne minimam offenseis ansam alicui / umquam videatur praebuisse; / Divino Angelorumque colloquio / intentus saepius.”
A very rough translation: “In the power of silence he flashed, so that he lifted himself above himself. He lived in such a mortified way that he should not have given the slightest offence as a snare to anyone … The divine conversation of the Angels was often his to attend to.”
Ulrik died on 26 February 1187 and was buried in the same grave as his predecessor Eberhard. He is honoured as Blessed by the Premonstratensians with a memorial day on the day of his death, 26 February.
St Alexander of Alexandria (Died c 326) Bishop of Alexandria, Confessor, Defender of the True Faith against heresies, in particular the Arians. The Roman Martyrology states of him today: “At Alexandria, the Bishop St Alexander, an aged man held in great honour who was a successor of the blessed Peter as Bishop of the City. He expelled from the Church, Arius, one of his Priests, tainted with heretical impiety and convicted by Divine Truth and, subsequently, was one of the three hundred and eighteen Fathers, who condemned him at the Council of Nicea.” Biography: https://anastpaul.com/2022/02/26/saint-of-the-day-26-february-st-alexander-of-alexandria-died-c-326/
St Andrew of Florence St Dionysius of Augsburg St Faustinian of Bologna Bishop St Felix St Fortunatus St Irene Bl Ottokar of Tegernsee
Thought for the Day – 25 February – The Spiritual Combat (1589) – Dom Lorenzo Scupoli OSM (c1530-1610)
“None shall be crowned who has not fought well.” 2 Tim 2: 5
XXIII: … Of Using the Senses to Advantage in Diverse Situations (Part Three)
“+++ When reading, behold your Lord in the words and receive them as from His Divine Lips!
+++ When you look upon the Holy Cross, consider that it is the Standard of your warfare – that, by forsaking it, you will fall into the hands of cruel enemies but that, by following it, you will enter Heaven laden with glorious spoils.
++ + When you see the dear image of the Blessed Virgin Mary, let your heart turn to her ,who reigns in Paradise, thanking her that she was ever ready to do the will of God that, she brought forth and nourished the Redeemer of the world and,that her favour and assistance, never fail us in our spiritual conflict.
+++ The images of the Saints represent to you, so many champions, who, having courageously run their course, have opened a way for you, wherein, if you will press onward, you also shall, with them, be crowned with immortal glory.
+++ When you see a Church, you may, amid other devout reflections, consider that your soul is the temple of God and, therefore, to be kept pure and spotless as His dwelling-place.
+++ When you hear the triple sound of the Angelus [even if these days, the sound is only in your heart and mind] make the following brief meditations, in conformity with the words which are said before each recitation of the Ave Maria. At the first stroke of the bell, thank God for that embassy from Heaven to earth which was the beginning of our salvation. At the second, rejoice with the Blessed Mary at the sublime dignity to which she was exalted by her singular and most profound humility. At the third, adore, together with the most Blessed Mother and the Angel Gabriel, the Divine Child just now conceived and forget not, reverently, to bow your head at each signal, especially the last, even to genuflect if possible!
Quote/s of the Day – 25 February – The Second Sunday in Lent – Thessalonians 4:1-7; Matthew 17:1-9 – Scripture search here: https://www.drbo.org/
“Lord, it is good for us to be here …”
Matthew 17:4
“I know a man in Christ— whether he was in or outside the body, I do not know, God knows— who was snatched up to the third heaven. . . and heard secret words, words which it is not granted to man to utter.”
2 Corinthians 12:2-4
“They shall see God.” Matthew 5:8
“You will surely not be allowed to see with an impure heart what one can only see with a pure heart. You will be moved away, put at a distance, you will not see! The vision of God is promised ONLY to people with a pure heart. This is not without a reason, since the eyes which allow us to see God are in the heart. Those are the eyes the Apostle Paul was talking about when he said: “May He enlighten your innermost vision” (Eph 1:18). So, at the present time because of their weakness, those eyes are enlightened by faith; later, because of their strength, they will be enlightened by vision… “Now we see indistinctly, as in a mirror; then we shall see face-to-face.”
St Augustine (354-430) Father and Doctor of the Church
“You will begin to taste, even in this life, a foretaste of eternal life, for the principal beatitude of the soul in Heaven, is to be confirmed forever in the Will of the Father. Thus, it tastes the divine sweetness. But it will never taste it in Heaven, if it is not clothed with it on earth, where we are pilgrims and travellers. When it is clothed with it, it tastes God by grace in its troubles; its memory will be full of the Blood of the Lamb without blemish; its mind will be opened and contemplate the ineffable love that God has made known in the Wisdom of His Son and the love it finds, in the Holy Spirit’s goodness, casts out self-love and love for created things, to love only God. So do not be afraid … but suffer with joy, so as to conform yourself to the Will of God.””
St Francis de Sales (1567-1622) Doctor Caritatis
“At His Transfiguration Christ showed His disciples, the splendour of His Beauty, to which He will shape and colour, those who are His : ‘He will reform our lowness configured to the Body of His Glory.”
St Thomas Aquinas (1225-1274) Doctor of the Church
Our Lenten Journey with the Angels and the Saints – 25 February – “The Month of the Most Holy and Blessed Trinity” – The Second Sunday in Lent – Thessalonians 4:1-7; Matthew 17:1-9 – Scripture search here: https://www.drbo.org/
“Remember us, O Lord, in the favour of Thy people; visit us with Thy salvation.” Psalm 105:4
“Lord it is good for us to be here” Matthew 17:4
ON HEAVEN
St Alphonsus Maria de Liguori (1696-1787) Doctor Zelantissimus
“IN this day’s Gospel we read that, wishing to give His disciples a glimpse of the glory of Paradise, in order to animate them to labour for the Divine Honour, the Redeemer was transfigured and allowed them to behold the splendour of His Countenance. Ravished with joy and delight, St Peter exclaimed: “Lord, it is good for us to be here.” Lord, let us remain here; let us never more depart from this place; for, the sight of Thine Beauty consoles us more than all the delights of the earth!
Brethren, let us labour during the remainder of our lives to gain Heaven. Heaven is so great a good that, to purchase it for us, Jesus Christ has sacrificed His Life on the Cross. Be assured, that the greatest of all the torments of the damned in hell, arise from the thought of having lost Heaven through their own fault. The blessings, the delights, the joys, the sweetness of Paradise may be acquired but, they can be described and understood, only by those blessed souls who enjoy them. But let us, with the aid of the holy Scripture, explain the little that can be said of them here below.
… In this life we cannot have an idea of any other pleasures than those which we enjoy by means of the senses. … Speaking of Paradise, St Bernard says: “O man, if you wish to understand the blessings of Heaven, know that in that happy country, there is nothing which can be disagreeable and everything which you can desire.” … In Paradise, death and the fear of death are no more: in that place of bliss there are no sorrows, no infirmities, no poverty, no inconveniencies, no vicissitudes of day or night, of cold or of heat. In that Kingdom there is a continual day, always serene, a continual Spring, always blooming. In Paradise there are no persecutions, no envy, for all love each other with tenderness and each, rejoices at the happiness of the others, as if it were his own. There is no more fear of eternal perdition – for the soul confirmed in grace, can neither sin nor lose God.
… Justly, then, has St Augustine said, that to gain the eternal glory of Paradise, we should cheerfully embrace eternal labour. … The saints have done but little to acquire Heaven. So many kings, who have abdicated their thrones and shut themselves up in a cloister; so many holy anchorets, who have confined themselves in a cave; so many martyrs, who have cheerfully submitted to torments to the rack and to red-hot plates, have done but little. “The sufferings of this life are not worthy to be compared to the glory to come.” (Rom 8:18) To gain Heaven, it would be but little to endure all the pains of this life.
Let us, then, brethren, courageously resolve to bear patiently with all the sufferings which shall come upon us during the remaining days of our lives: to secure Heaven, they are all little and nothing. Rejoice then, for all these pains, sorrows and persecutions shall, if we are saved, be to us a source of neverending joys and delights. “Your sorrows shall be turned into joy.” (John 16:20) When, then, the crosses of this life afflict us, let us raise our eyes to Heaven and console ourselves with the hope of Paradise. At the end of her life, St Mary of Egypt was asked, by the Abbot St Zozimus, how she had been able to live for forty seven years in the desert, where he found her dying. She answered: “With the hope of Paradise.” If we be animated with the same hope, we shall not feel the tribulations of this life.
Have courage! Let us love God and labour for Heaven. There the Saints expects us, Mary expects us, Jesus Christ expects us – He holds in His Hand a Crown, to make each of us a king in that eternal Kingdom!” [Extracts from Sermons for all the Sundays in the Year – Lent II (1, part 2, 3, 9 & 10)]
One Minute Reflection – 25 February – “The Month of the Most Holy and Blessed Trinity” – The Second Sunday in Lent – Thessalonians 4:1-7; Matthew 17:1-9 – Scripture search here: https://www.drbo.org/
“His Face shone like the sunand His garments became white as snow.” – Matthew 17:2
REFLECTION – “The Lord displays His glory before chosen witnesses and makes illustrious that bodily shape which He shared with others, with such splendour that His countenance shone like the sun and His garments were as white as snow. In this Transfiguration, the chief object was to remove the scandal of the Cross from the hearts of the disciples and, to prevent their faith being disturbed, at the humiliation of His voluntary Passion, by revealing the excellence of His hidden dignity. But, with no less foresight, the foundation was laid, of the hope of holy Church, that the whole Body of Christ, might realise, with what a change it was to be endowed and that the members, might promise themselves, a share in that honour which had shone forth in their Head.
But to confirm the Apostles and to lead them onto all knowledge, still further, instruction was conveyed by this miracle. For Moses and Elias, that is, the law and the prophets, appeared talking with the Lord, so that, in the presence of these five men, might most truly be fulfilled, what was said – In two or three witnesses every word stands. What more stable, what more steadfast, than the Word, in the proclamation of which, the trumpet of the Old and of the New Testaments, sounds forth and the records of ancient witnesses, agree with the teaching of the Gospel? For the pages of both Covenants corroborate each other and He, Whom, under the veil of Mysteries, the types that went before, had promised, is displayed clearly and manifestly by the splendour of His present glory.
The Apostle Peter, therefore, being stirred by the revelation of these Mysteries, despising things worldly and scorning things earthly, was carried away by a certain excess of mind, to the desire of things eternal and, being filled with rapture at the whole vision, longed to make his abode with Jesus, in the place where he was gladdened by the sight of His glory. And so also he says: Lord, it is good for us to be here: if Thou wilt, let us set up here, three tents, one for Thee and one for Moses and one for Elias. But to this proposal the Lord made no reply, signifying that what he asked was not indeed wicked, but irregular, since the world could not be saved, except by Christ’s Death and by the Lord’s example in this, the faithful were called upon to believe that, although there ought not to be any doubt about the promises of happiness, yet, we should understand that, amid the trials of this life, we must ask for power to endure, rather than for glory.” – St Leo the Great (400-461) Pope, Father and Doctor (Sermon on the Transfiguration – excerpt).
PRAYER – O God, Thou Who sees how we are deprived of all strength, guard us inwardly and outwardly that in body, we may be protected against all misfortunes and in mind, cleansed of evil thoughts and by the intercession of blessed and gloriosus ever Virgin Mary, Mother of God, be assisted on this earthly pilgrimage. Through Jesus Christ, Thy Son our Lord, Who lives and reigns with Thee, in the unity of the Holy Ghost, God, world without end. Amen (Collect).
Our Morning Offering – 25 February – “The Month of the Most Holy and Blessed Trinity” – The Second Sunday in Lent
The Golden Arrow
This prayer was revealed by Jesus Himself to a Carmelite Nun of Tours in 1843 as a Reparation for Blasphemy. “This Golden Arrow will wound My Heart delightfully” He said “and heal the wounds, inflicted by blasphemy.”
May the Most Holy, Most Sacred, Most Adorable, Most Mysterious and Unutterable Name of God be always praised, blessed, loved, adored and glorified in Heaven. on earth and under the earth, by all the creatures of God and by the Sacred Heart of our Lord Jesus Christ in the most Holy Sacrament of the Altar. Amen
AnaStpaul 
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