Catholic Harbor of Faith and Morals

All of the individual pages devoted to the saints, including prayers, devotions and biographical sketches have been replicated and moved to the Index of the Saints listed below.

Alphabetical Index of the Lives and Teachings of the Saints. Over 200

Sermons of the Saints and for
Various Sundays and Feast Days
Throughout the Year

Children's Sermon for the 19th Sunday After Pentecost

The Resurrection

The Christmas Season

Advent Calendar with Traditional Meditations

Meditations on the
Precious Blood

Meditations on the
Our Father

Meditations on the
The Great Truths

Meditations on the
The Holy Angels

Meditations on the
The Poor Souls in Purgatory

Advent Calendar,
December Meditations

Meditations on the Holy Infancy

Meditations on the Hidden Life of Christ

Meditations on St. Joseph

Mother of Perpetual Help, pray for us.
(Indulgence of 300 days)

Prayer of St. Thomas Aquinas

Almighty and eternal God, I approach to the sacrament of Thy only-begotten Son, our Lord Jesus Christ. As a sick man I approach the physician of life; as a man unclean, I come to the fountain of mercy; blind, to the light of eternal brightness; poor and needy , to the Lord of heaven and earth. I beseech Thee, therefore, in Thy boundless mercy, that Thou wouldst deign to heal my sickness, to wash away my defilements, to enlighten my blindness, to enrich my poverty, and to clothe my nakedness; that I may receive the Bread of angels, the King of kings, the Lord of lords, with such reverence and humility, such contrition and faith, such purpose and intention, as may help the salvation of my soul.

Grant, I beseech Thee, that I may receive not only the Sacrament of the Body and Blood of our Lord, but also the whole grace and virtue of the Sacrament. O most indulgent God, grant me so to receive the Body of Thy only-begotten Son, our Lord Jesus Christ, which He took of the Virgin Mary, that I may be found worthy to be incorporated with His Mystical Body and numbered among His members. O most loving Father, grant that I may one day forever contemplate Him unveiled and face to face, Whom, on my pilgrimage, I receive under a veil, Thy beloved Son, Who liveth and reigneth with Thee and the Holy Ghost, one God, world without end.

Amen

Daily Meditations in June honoring Honoring the Sacred Heart by Rev. R.F. Clarke, S.J.

Invocation to the Sacred Heart

O Heart of love, I put all my trust in Thee; for I fear all things form my own weekness, but I hope for all things from Thy goodness. --St. Margartet Mary Alocoque

His Holiness, Pope Pius IX. by a decree of the Sacred Congregation of Indulgenses, May 8th, 1873, granted to all the faithful who, during the month of June, either in public or in private, shall, with at least contrite heart, say some special prayers, or perform some pious acts in honor of the most sacred heart of Jesus:

An Indulgence of Seven Years, once a day.

Invocation to the Sacred Heart

O Heart of love, I put all my trust in Thee; for I fear all things form my own weekness, but I hope for all things from Thy goodness. --St. Margartet Mary Alocoque

Links for the Sacred Heart of Jesus for the Month of June

First Friday Devotions Devotions to the Sacred Heart Feast of the Sacred Heart Consecration of Children to the Sacred Heart of Jesus The Blessings of Devotion to the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus The Manual of the Sacred Heart Prayers and Devotions Novena to the Sacred Heart Litany of the Sacred Heart for each day of the week Feast of the Sacred Heart: Sermons by Fr. Weninger The Imitation of the Sacred Heart of Jesus Meditations on the Sacred Heart St. Margaret Mary Alacoque I. St. Margaret Mary Alacoque II. Novena to the Sacred Heart

June Novenas can also be said at any time before or after the Saints Feast Day.

Novena to the Holy Spirit: May 27th - June 4th Novena to the Holy Trinity: June 3rd - June 11th Novena to the St. Anthony of Padua: June 5th - June 13th Novena for Corpus Christi: June 7th - June 15th Novena to St. Aloysius Gonzaga: June 13th - June 21st Novena to the Sacred Heart: June 15th - June 23rd Novena to the St. John the Baptist: June 16th - June 24th Novena to Our Lady of Perpetual Help: June 19th - June 27th Novena to St. Peter and St. Paul: June 21st - June 29th Novena to St. Paul: June 22nd - June 30th

Music: Jesu Rex Admirabilis, Adoramus te Christe, Jesu Dulcis Memoria, Veni Jesus Amor Mi, To Jesus Heart All Burning, O Sacred Heart

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June 27th: Within the Octave; In Some Places the Feast Day of Our Lady of Perpetual Help

Mary, thou refuge of sinners, full of grace, pray for us, that God may give us the light to recognize fully the evil of sin, and to avoid it for evermore!

The Novena to Our Mother of Perpetual Help--which can be found on the link below--can also be said anytime throughout the year. June 27th is the Feast of Our Lady of Perpetual Help.

Novena to Our Lady
of Perpetual Help Our Lady of Perpetual Help The Influence of Mary on Modern Civilization and Prayers of Petition to Our Lady What we should pray for Prayer: its Conditions and Circumstances How to Obtain Answers to Our Prayers The Corporal Works of Mercy

Novena to St. Peter and St. Paul: June 21st - June 29th Novena to St. Paul: June 22nd - June 30th Spiritual Communion Links for the Sacred Heart of Jesus During the Month of June June Meditations in Honor of the Sacred Heart of Jesus The Little Office of the Blessed Virgin Mary, from Candlemas until Advent 30 Days Prayer to the
Blessed Virgin Mary Joyful Mysteries Sorrowful Mysteries Glorious Mysteries

The image of Our Lady of Perpetual Help measures around 50 centimeters (25 inches) high. It is in the Byzantine style, painted on wood with a gold leaf background. The Virgin is there with Her divine Child; each of them has a golden halo. Two Angels, one on the right and the other on the left, present the instruments of the Passion to the Child Jesus who is frightened, whereas the Blessed Virgin looks at the pathetic scene with calm, resigned sorrow.

The image of Our Lady of Perpetual Help had long been venerated on the Isle of Crete. The inhabitants of that island, fleeing a Turkish invasion, took it with them to Rome. By the invocation of Mary under the title of Our Lady of Perpetual Help, the ship transporting Her holy image was saved from a terrible storm.

On March 27, 1499, the portrait of the Virgin of Perpetual Help was carried in triumph through the streets of Rome. Preceded by the clergy and followed by the people, it was placed over the main altar of St. Matthew's church, near St. Mary Major. Thanks to the care of the Augustinian friars, the holy image became the object of a very popular devotion which God rewarded for several centuries with many miracles.

During the disturbances of the French Revolution (1789-1793), the French troops occupying Rome destroyed St. Matthew's church. One of the friars serving in that sanctuary had the time to secretly remove the miraculous Madonna. He hid it so well that for sixty years, no one knew what had become of the famous painting.

God permitted a concourse of providential circumstances which led to rediscovery of the venerated image. In 1865, in order to return the holy picture to the same spot it had been prayed to before, Pius IX gave orders to have it taken to the Esquiline Hill, in St. Alphonsus Liguori's church, built on the site of old St. Matthew's. On April 26, 1866, the Redemptorists solemnly enthroned Our Lady of Perpetual Help in their chapel.

From that time on, thanks to the zeal of the sons of Saint Alphonsus and the countless miracles obtained in their pious sanctuary, devotion to Our Lady of Perpetual Help has had an extraordinary development. To acknowledge and perpetuate the remembrances of these precious favors, the Vatican Chapter crowned the holy image in great pomp on June 23, 1867.

In 1876, Pope Pius IX erected an Archconfraternity in St. Alphonsus' church under the title of Our Lady of Perpetual Help. Today the Blessed Virgin is invoked by this name throughout the Western Church.

†

June 26th: Sts. John and Paul, Martyrs. Within the Octave of the Sacred Heart of Jesus

Devotions to the Sacred Heart Feast of the Sacred Heart Consecration of Children to the Sacred Heart of Jesus The Blessings of Devotion to the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus The Manual of the Sacred Heart Prayers and Devotions Novena to the Sacred Heart Litany of the Sacred Heart for each day of the week Feast of the Sacred Heart: Sermons by Fr. Weninger The Imitation of the Sacred Heart of Jesus Meditations on the Sacred Heart St. Margaret Mary Alacoque I. St. Margaret Mary Alacoque II. Novena to the Sacred Heart The Corporal Works of Mercy

Spiritual Communion Links for the Sacred Heart of Jesus During the Month of June June Meditations in Honor of the Sacred Heart of Jesus The Little Office of the Blessed Virgin Mary, from Candlemas until Advent 30 Days Prayer to the
Blessed Virgin Mary Joyful Mysteries Sorrowful Mysteries Glorious Mysteries

Grant, we beseech thee almighty God: that we may receive twofold joy on this day's festival of the triump of blessed John and Paul; whom the same faith and the same martyrdom made to be truly brethren. Through out Lord etc.

(Roman Breviary)

These two Saints were both officers in the army under Julian the Apostate, and received the crown of martyrdom, probably in 362. They glorified God by a double victory; they despised the honors of the world, and triumphed over its threats and torments. They saw many wicked men prosper in their impiety, but were not dazzled by their example.

They considered that worldly prosperity which attends impunity in sin is the most dreadful of all judgments; and how false and short-lived was this glittering prosperity of Julian, who in a moment fell into the pit which he himself had dug! But the martyrs, by the momentary labor of their conflict, purchased an immense weight of never-fading glory; their torments were, by their heroic patience and invincible virtue and fidelity, a spectacle worthy of God, Who looked down upon them from the throne of His glory, and held His arm stretched out to strengthen them, and to put on their heads immortal crowns in the happy moment of their victory.

Reflection--The Saints always accounted that they had done nothing for Christ so long as they had not resisted to blood, and by pouring forth the last drop completed their sacrifice. Every action of our lives ought to spring from this fervent motive, and we should consecrate ourselves to the divine service with our whole strength; we must always bear in mind that we owe to God all that we are, and, after all we can do, are unprofitable servants, and do only what we are bound to do.

†

June 25th: St. William, Abbot. Sunday within the Octave of the Sacred Heart

Manner of Hearing Mass At Home: For those who on account of sickness, old age, or for other proper reasons cannot assist at holy Mass, especially on Sundays and Holidays Sunday within the Octave of the Sacred Heart
Sunday within the Octave of the Sacred Heart: Q and A. Children's Sermon for Sunday within the Octave of the Sacred Heart Consecration of Children to the Sacred Heart of Jesus The Prodigal Son, the Sinner's Return to God True Conversion: One of the best sermons for hardened sinners The Conversion of Sinners The Necessity of Prayer for Sinners Spiritual Communion

Links for the Sacred Heart of Jesus During the Octave of the Sacred Heart and the Month of June June Meditations in Honor of the Sacred Heart of Jesus Novena to Our Lady of Perpetual Help: June 19th - June 27th Novena to St. Peter and St. Paul: June 21st - June 29th Novena to St. Paul: June 22nd - June 30th Novena of the Most Precious Blood: June 23rd - July 1st

The Little Office of the Blessed Virgin Mary, from Candlemas until Advent 30 Days Prayer to the
Blessed Virgin Mary Joyful Mysteries Sorrowful Mysteries Glorious Mysteries

St. William, Abbot

O God, Who, to help our weakness, has given us Thy Saints to be our example and protection in the way of salvation: grant to us that we may so venerate the merits of the blessed Abbot William, that we may both gain his prayers and follow in his footsteps. Through our Lord etc.

(Roman Breviary)

St. William, having lost his father and mother in his infancy, was brought up by his friends in great sentiments of piety; and at fifteen years of age, out of an earnest desire to lead a penitential life, he left Piedmont, his native country, made an austere pilgrimage to St. James's in Galicia, and afterward retired into the kingdom of Naples, where he chose for his abode a desert mountain, and lived in perpetual contemplation and the exercises of most rigorous penitential austerities. Finding himself discovered and his contemplation interrupted, he changed his habitation and settled in a place called Monte-Vergine, situated between Nola and Benevento, in the same kingdom; but his reputation followed him, and he was obliged by two neighboring priests to permit certain fervent persons to live with him and to imitate his ascetic practices. Thus, in 1119, was laid the foundation of the religious congregation called de Monte-Vergine. The Saint died on the 25th of June, 1142.

†

June 24th: Birthday of St. John the Baptist

Novena to the St. John the Baptist: June 16th - June 24th The Nativity of St. John the Baptist I. The Nativity of St. John the Baptist II. Children's Sermon for the Nativity of St. John the Baptist

Novena to Our Lady of Perpetual Help: June 19th - June 27th Novena to St. Peter and St. Paul: June 21st - June 29th Novena to St. Paul: June 22nd - June 30th

Spiritual Communion Links for the Sacred Heart of Jesus During the Month of June The Little Office of the Blessed Virgin Mary, from Candlemas until Advent 30 Days Prayer to the
Blessed Virgin Mary Joyful Mysteries Sorrowful Mysteries Glorious Mysteries

The Sacrament of Penance

Sacrament of Penance The Sacrament of Penance, All of Your Questions Answered The Conversion of Sinners True Conversion: One of the best sermons for hardened sinners Penitent's Consolation Examination of Conscience Rite of Confession General Confession Contrition On Contrition and the Purpose of Amendment Contrition: Explanation of Perfect Contrition and the Necessity of Contrition for Forgiveness of Sins The Nature of Sin Mortal Sin Conscience Index of the Ten Commandments Sermon on Keeping the 10 Commandments Time is No More They that Live in Sin The Sinner Seeks God The Sinner at Death The Necessity of Prayer for Sinners

O God, Who hast made this present day full of honor to us in the birth of blessed John: give to Thy people the grace of spiritual joys, and guide the souls of all the faithful into the way of everlasting salvation. Through our Lord etc.

(Roman Breviary)

The birth of St. John was foretold by an angel of the Lord to his father, Zachary, who was offering incense in the Temple. It was the office of St. John to prepare the way for Christ, and before he was born into the world he began to live for the Incarnate God. Even in the womb he knew the presence of Jesus and of Mary, and he leaped with joy at the glad coming of the son of man. In his youth he remained hidden, because He for Whom he waited was hidden also. But before Christ's public life began, a divine impulse led St. John into the desert; there, with locusts for his food and haircloth on his skin, in silence and in prayer, he chastened his own soul. Then, as crowds broke in upon his solitude, he warned them to flee from the wrath to come, and gave them the baptism of penance, while they confessed their sins. At last there stood in the crowd One Whom St. John did not know, till a voice within told him that it was his Lord. With the baptism of St. John, Christ began His penance for the sins of His people, and St. John saw the Holy Ghost descend in bodily form upon Him.

Then the Saint's work was done. He had but to point his own disciples to the Lamb, he had but to decrease as Christ increased. He saw all men leave him and go after Christ. "I told you," he said, "that I am not the Christ. The friend of the Bridegroom rejoiceth because of the Bridegroom's voice. This my joy therefore is fulfilled." St. John had been cast into the fortress of Machaerus by a worthless tyrant whose crimes be had rebuked, and he was to remain there till he was beheaded, at the will of a girl who danced before this wretched king. In this time of despair, if St. John could have known despair, some of his old disciples visited him. St. John did not speak to them of himself, but he sent them to Christ, that they might see the proofs of His mission. Then the Eternal Truth pronounced the panegyric of the Saint who had lived and breathed for Him alone: "Verily I say unto you, Among them that are born of women there hath not risen a greater than John the Baptist"

Reflection--St. John was great before God because he forgot himself and lived for Jesus Christ, Who is the source of all greatness. Remember that you are nothing; your own will and your own desires can only lead to misery and sin. Therefore sacrifice every day some one of your natural inclinations to the Sacred Heart of Our Lord, and learn little by little to lose yourself in Him.

†

June 23rd: Sacred Heart of Jesus

Devotions to the Sacred Heart Feast of the Sacred Heart Consecration of Children to the Sacred Heart of Jesus and Chaplet to the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus The Manual of the Sacred Heart Prayers and Devotions Novena to the Sacred Heart: June 15th - June 23rd Litany of the Sacred Heart for each day of the week Feast of the Sacred Heart: Sermons by Fr. Weninger The Imitation of the Sacred Heart of Jesus Meditations on the Sacred Heart St. Margaret Mary Alacoque I. St. Margaret Mary Alacoque II. Holy Purity

Related Link:

Litany and Prayer of St. Gertrude to the Sacred Heart

Novena to Our Lady of Perpetual Help: June 19th - June 27th Novena to St. Peter and St. Paul: June 21st - June 29th Novena to St. Paul: June 22nd - June 30th Index of Prayers for the Holy Souls in Purgatory Joyful Mysteries Sorrowful Mysteries Glorious Mysteries Spiritual Communion

History of the Devotion to the Sacred Heart of Jesus

Among the wonderful developments of sacred teaching and piety, by which the plans of the divine wisdom are daily made clear to the Church, hardly any is more manifest than the triumphant progress made by the devotion of the most Sacred Heart of Jesus. Very often indeed, during the course of past ages, Fathers, Doctors, and Saints have celebrated our Redeemer's love: and they have said, that the wound opened in the side of Christ was the hidden fountain of all graces. Moreover, from the Middle Ages onward, when the faithful began to show a more tender piety towards the most sacred Humanity of the Savior, contemplative souls became accustomed to penetrate through that wound almost to the very Heart itself, wounded for the love of men.

And from that time, this form of contemplation became so familiar to all persons of saintly life, that there was no country or religious order in which, during this period, witnesses to it were not to be found. Finally, during recent centuries, and most especially at that period when heretics, in the name of a false piety, strove to discourage Christians from receiving the most Holy Eucharist, the veneration of the most Sacred Heart began to be openly practiced, principally through the exertions of St. John Eudes, who is by no means unworthily called the founder of the liturgical worship of the Sacred Hearts of Jesus and Mary.

But, in order to establish fully and entirely the worship of the most Sacred Heart of Jesus, and to spread the same throughout the whole world, God himself chose as his instrument a most humble virgin from the order of the Visitation, St. Margaret Mary Alacoque, who even in her earliest years already had a burning love for the Sacrament of the Eucharist, and to whom Christ the Lord had very many times appeared, and was pleased to make known the riches and the desires of his divine Heart.

The most famous of these appearances was that in which Jesus revealed himself to her in prayer before the blessed Sacrament, showed her his most Sacred Heart, and, complaining that in return for his unbounded love, he met with nothing but outrages and ingratitude from mankind, he ordered her to concern herself with the establishment of a new feast, on the Friday after the octave of Corpus Christi, on which his Heart should be venerated with due honor, and that the insults offered him by sinners in the Sacrament of love should be expiated by worthy satisfaction.

But there is no one who does not know how many and how great were the obstacles which the handmaid of God experienced, in carrying out the commands of Christ: but, endowed with strength by the Lord himself, and actively aided by her pious spiritual directors, who exerted themselves with an almost unbelievable zeal, up to the time of her death she never ceased faithfully to carry out the duty entrusted to her by heaven.

At length, in the year 1765, the Supreme Pontiff Clement XIII approved the Mass and Office in honor of the most Sacred Heart of Jesus; and Pius IX extended the feast to the universal Church, From then on the worship of the most Sacred Heart, like an overflowing river, washing away all obstacles, has poured itself over the whole earth, and, at the dawn of the new century, Leo XIII, having proclaimed a jubilee, decided to dedicate the whole human race to the most Sacred Heart.

This consecration was actually carried out with solemn rites in all the churches of the Catholic world, and brought about a great increase of this devotion, leading not only nations but even private families to it, who in countless numbers dedicated themselves to the Divine Heart, and submitted themselves to its royal sway.

Lastly, the Sovereign Pontiff Pius XI, in order that, by its solemnity, the feast might answer more fully to the greatly widespread devotion of the Christian people, raised the feast of the most Sacred Heart of Jesus to the rite of a double of the first class, with an octave; and moreover, that the violated rights of Christ, the supreme King and most loving Lord, might be repaired, and that the sins of the nations might be bewailed, he ordered that annually, on that same feast-day, there should be recited an expiatory form of prayer in all the churches of the Christian world.

June 23rd: Vigil of the Nativity of St. John the Baptist

Vigil of the Nativity of St. John the Baptist Novena to the St. John the Baptist: June 16th - June 24th

Grant, we beseech thee, almighty God: that thy servants may walk in the way of salvation, and by following the admonitions of the forerunner blessed John, may surely come to him whom he foretold, our Lord Jesus Christ, thy Son: Who liveth etc.

Well done, thou good and faithful servant, because thou hast been faithful over a few things, I will place thee over many things, saith the Lord.

(Roman Breviary)

Homily on St. John the Baptist by St. Ambrose

Divine Scripture teaches us that we should praise the lives not only of those who are publicly honored, but also the lives of their parents; in order that, as it were, the transmitted heritage of spotless purity may stand out in those whom we wish to praise. For what other intention had the holy Evangelist in this place but to glorify St. John the Baptist in his parents, as in his miracles, his manner of life, his gifts, and his sufferings? So also Anna is praised, the mother of holy Samuel; so did Isaac receive from his parents that nobility of goodness, which he bequeathed to his descendants. Therefore the priest Zachary was not only a priest, but even of the course of Abia, that is, of a house distinguished among the noble families.

And his wife, says he, was of the daughters of Aaron. Therefore the nobility of St. John was inherited not only from his parents, but also from ancestors not distinguished by worldly power, but by a venerable religious succession. For it was fitting that the forerunner of Christ should have such ancestors; that it might be evident that the preaching of faith in the coming of the Lord was not a gift suddenly received, but one inherited from his ancestors, and implanted in him by the very law of nature. And they were, says he, both just before God, walking blamelessly in all the commandments and ordinances of the Lord. What do they make of this who, to show some excuse for their own sins, think that man cannot live without sinning often; and make use of the verse, which is written in Job; No man is pure from sin even though his life on earth be but for one day?

We must answer such persons, first by asking what they mean by a man without sin: whether he is a man who has never sinned, or one who has stopped sinning. For if, by a man without sin, they mean one who has never sinned, I agree with them. For all have sinned, and are without the glory of God. But if they deny that he who has amended his old fault, and has changed his way of life, in order to refrain from sin, cannot keep from sins, I cannot concur in their opinion, since we read that: The Lord so loved the Church, that he might present it to himself a glorious one, not having spot or wrinkle or any such thing: but that it should be holy and without blemish.

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June 22nd: St. Paulinus, Bishop and Confessor. Octave of the Corpus Christi

St. Paulinus, Bishop and Confessor Novena to the Sacred Heart: June 15th - June 23rd Novena to the St. John the Baptist: June 16th - June 24th Novena to Our Lady of Perpetual Help: June 19th - June 27th Novena to St. Peter and St. Paul: June 21st - June 29th Novena to St. Paul: June 22nd - June 30th

Related Links to Corpus Christi

Spiritual Communion June Meditations in Honor of the Sacred Heart of Jesus Links for the Sacred Heart of Jesus During the Month of June The Little Office of the Blessed Virgin Mary, from Candlemas until Advent 30 Days Prayer to the
Blessed Virgin Mary Joyful Mysteries Sorrowful Mysteries Glorious Mysteries

Octave of Corpus Christi

To resist the attacks of renewed heresies against the Holy Eucharist and to revive in the Church a zeal which had somewhat grown cold, the Holy Ghost inspired at the beginning of the thirteenth century, the solemnity of Corpus Christi.

In 1208 the blessed Juliana of Mount Cornillon, near Liege, saw in a vision the full moon with an indentation indicating that a feast was missing in the liturgical cycle. The Eucharist, instituted on Maundy Thursday, had not in effect been celebrated with all the desired pomp, the Church's thoughts being absorbed by the passion of the Saviour. It was thought that immediately after Paschaltide a feast with an octave should be established. As the Last Supper took place on Thursday, the Bishop of Liege instituted in 1246 this solemnity in his diocese on the Thursday which follows the octave of Pentecost. In 1264, Pope Urban IV extended this feast to the whole world. Let us venerate the Eucharist, the greatest of the miracles perfomed by the Holy Ghost.

O God, who hast promised a hundredfold hereafter and life everlasting to those who leave all things in this world for Thy sake: grant in Thy mercy, that we mayh follow in the footsteps of the holy bishop Paulinus and may learn to despise the things of this world and desire only those of heaven: Who livest etc.

(Roman Breviary)

Paulinus was of a family which boasted of a long line of senators, prefects, and consuls. He was educated with great care, and his genius and eloquence, in prose and verse, were the admiration of St. Jerome and St. Augustine. He had more than doubled his wealth by marriage, and was one of the foremost men of his time. Though he was the chosen friend of Saints, and had a great devotion to St. Felix of Nola, he was still only a catechumen, trying to serve two masters. But God drew him to Himself along the way of sorrows and trials. He received baptism, withdrew into Spain to be alone, and then, in consort with his holy wife, sold all their vast estates in various parts of the empire, distributing their proceeds so prudently that St. Jerome says East and West were filled with his alms. He was then ordained priest, and retired to Nola in Campania. There he rebuilt the Church of St. Felix with great magnificence, and served it night and day, living a life of extreme abstinence and toil.

In 409 he was chosen bishop, and for more than thirty years so ruled as to be conspicuous in an age blessed with many great and wise bishops. St. Gregory the Great tells us that when the Vandals of Africa had made a descent on Campania, Paulinus spent all he had in relieving the distress of his people and redeeming them from slavery. At last there came a poor widow; her only son had been carried off by the son-in-law of the Vandal king. "Such as I have I give thee," said the Saint to her; "we will go to Africa, and I will give myself for your son." Having overborne her resistance, they went, and Paulinus was accepted in place of the widow's son, and employed as gardener. After a time the king found out, by divine interposition, that his son-in-law's slave was the great Bishop of Nola. He at once set him free, granting him also the freedom of all the townsmen of Nola who were in slavery. One who knew him well says he was meek as Moses, priestlike as Aaron, innocent as Samuel, tender as David, wise as Solomon, apostolic as Peter, loving as John, cautious as Thomas, keen-sighted as Stephen, fervent as Apollos. He died in 431.

Reflection--"Go to Campania," writes St. Augustine; "there study Paulinus, that choice servant of God. With what generosity, with what still greater humility, he has flung from him the burden of this world's grandeurs to take on him the yoke of Christ, and in His service how serene and unobtrusive his life!"

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June 21st: St. Aloysius Gonzaga, Confessor and Patron of Youth

The Life of St. Aloysius St. Aloysius Gonzaga, Confessor: Prayers and Devotions St. Aloysius Additional Prayers with Novena Feast Day of St. Aloysius Gonzaga, Children's Sermon Prayers for the Preservation of Chastity. An Explanation and Defense of the Virtue of Chastity Holy Purity Part 1 of 3 on the Vice of Lust: The Folly of Impure Desires of Sensual Pleasures Part 2 of 3 on the Vice of Lust: The Incurableness of Impurity Part 3 of 3 on the Vice of Lust: The Anger of God Against the Vice of Impurity The 6th Commandment Moral Teaching on Unchaste Thoughts and Desires The Ravages of Adultery

Related Links to Resisting the Devil and Temptation to Impurity

Part 12: Resisting the Enemies of Our Salvation St. Michael/ Exorcism To fight against Satan, The Medal or Cross of St. Benedict, by Prosper Gueranger Novena to St. Aloysius Gonzaga: June 13th - June 21st Novena to the Sacred Heart: June 15th - June 23rd Novena to the St. John the Baptist: June 16th - June 24th Novena to Our Lady of Perpetual Help: June 19th - June 27th

Spiritual Communion June Meditations in Honor of the Sacred Heart of Jesus Links for the Sacred Heart of Jesus During the Month of June The Little Office of the Blessed Virgin Mary, from Candlemas until Advent 30 Days Prayer to the
Blessed Virgin Mary Joyful Mysteries Sorrowful Mysteries Glorious Mysteries

O God, the giver of heavenly gifts, who in the angelic youth Aloysius didst unite wonderful innocence of life with an equal severity of penance: grant, through his merits and prayers, that we who have failed to follow the example of his innocence may imitate his practice of penance. Through our Lord etc.

(Roman Breviary)

Aloysius, the eldest son of Ferdinand Gonzaga, Marquis of Castiglione, was born on the 9th of March, 1568. The first words he pronounced were the holy names of Jesus and Mary. When he was nine years of age he made a vow of perpetual virginity, and by a special grace was ever exempted from temptations against purity. He received his first Communion at the hands of St. Charles Borromeo. At an early age he resolved to leave the world, and in a vision was directed by our blessed Lady to join the Society of Jesus. The Saint's mother rejoiced on learning his determination to become a religious, but his father for three years refused his consent. At length St. Aloysius obtained permission to enter the novitiate on the 25th of November, 1585. He took his vows after two years, and went through the ordinary course of philosophy and theology.

He was wont to say he doubted whether without penance grace would continue to make head against I nature, which, when not afflicted and chastised, tends gradually to relapse into its old state, losing the habit of suffering acquired by the labor of years. "I am a crooked piece of iron," he said, "and am come into religion to be made straight by the hammer of mortification and penance." During his last year of theology a malignant fever broke out in Rome; the Saint offered himself for the service of the sick, and he was accepted for the dangerous duty. Several of the brothers caught the fever, and Aloysius was of the number. He was brought to the point of death, but recovered, only to fall, however, into slow fever, which carried him off after three months. He died, repeating the Holy Name, a little after midnight between the 20th and 21st of June, on the octave-day of Corpus Christi, being Prather more than twenty-three years of age.

Reflection--Cardinal Bellarmine, the Saint's confessor, testified that he had never mortally offended God. Yet he chastised his body rigorously, rose at night to pray, and shed many tears for his sins. Pray that, not having followed his innocence, you may yet imitate his penance.

†

June 20th: St. Silverius, Pope and Martyr, within the Octave of Corpus Christi

Novena to St. Aloysius Gonzaga: June 13th - June 21st Novena to the Sacred Heart: June 15th - June 23rd Novena to the St. John the Baptist: June 16th - June 24th Novena to Our Lady of Perpetual Help: June 19th - June 27th

Spiritual Communion Prayers for Deceased Parents and Additional Prayers for the Faithful Departed. June Meditations in Honor of the Sacred Heart of Jesus Links for the Sacred Heart of Jesus During the Month of June The Little Office of the Blessed Virgin Mary, from Candlemas until Advent 30 Days Prayer to the
Blessed Virgin Mary Joyful Mysteries Sorrowful Mysteries Glorious Mysteries

O eternal Shepherd, watch over the peace of Thy flock, and through blessed Silverius, Thy Martyr and Sovereign Pontiff, whom thou didst appoint shepherd over the whole Church, keep her under Thy constant protection. Through our Lord etc.

This Saint hath striven for the law of his God even unto death, and hath not feared for words of the ungodly; for he had been founded upon a firm rock.

V. Thou hast crowned him with glory and honor, O Lord.

R. And hast set him over the works of Thy hands.

(Roman Breviary)

St. Silverius was son of Pope Hermisdas, who had been married before he entered the ministry. Upon the death of St. Agapetas, after a vacancy of forty-seven days, Silverius, then subdeacon, was chosen Pope, and ordained on the 8th of June, 536.

Theodora, the empress of Justinian, resolved to promote the sect of the Acephali. She endeavored to win Silverius over to her interest, and wrote to him, ordering that he should acknowledge Anthimus lawful bishop, or repair in person to Constantinople and reexamine his cause on the spot. Without the least hesitation or delay, Silverius returned her a short answer, by which he peremptorily gave her to understand that he neither could nor would obey her unjust demands and betray the cause of the Catholic faith.

The empress, finding that she could expect nothing from him, resolved to have him deposed. Vigilius, archdeacon of the Roman Church, a man of address, was then at Constantinople. To him the empress made her application, and finding him taken by the bait of ambition, promised to make him Pope, and to bestow on him seven hundred pieces of gold, provided he would engage himself to condemn the Council of Chalcedon and receive to Communion the three deposed Eutychian patriarchs, Anthimus of Constantinople, Severus of Antioch, and Theodosius of Alexandria. The unhappy Vigilius having assented to these conditions, the empress sent him to Rome, charged with a letter to the general Belisarius, commanding him to drive out Silverius and to contrive the election of Vigilius to the pontificate.

Vigilius urged the general to execute the project. The more easily to carry out this project the Pope was accused of corresponding with the enemy and a letter was produced which was pretended to have been written by him to the king of the Goths, inviting him into the city, and promising to open the gates to him. Silverius was banished to Patara in Lycia. The bishop of that city received the illustrious exile with all possible marks of honor and respect; and thinking himself bound to undertake his defence, repaired to Constantinople, and spoke boldly to the emperor, terrifying him with the threats of the divine judgments for the expulsion of a bishop of so great a see, telling him, "There are many kings in the world, but there is only one Pope over the Church of the whole world."

It must be observed that these were the words of an Oriental bishop, and a clear confession of the supremacy of the Roman See. Justinian appeared startled at the atrocity of the proceedings, and gave orders that Silverius should be sent back to Rome, but the enemies of the Pope contrived to prevent it, and he was intercepted on his road toward Rome and carried to a desert island, where he died on the 20th of June, 538.

†

June 19th: St. Juliana Falconieri, Virgin and Sts. Gervase and Protase, Martyrs. 5th Sunday After Pentecost

St. Juliana Falconieri, Virgin

Novena to St. Aloysius Gonzaga: June 13th - June 21st Novena to the Sacred Heart: June 15th - June 23rd Novena to the St. John the Baptist: June 16th - June 24th Novena to Our Lady of Perpetual Help: June 19th - June 27th

Links for the Sacred Heart of Jesus During the Month of June June Meditations in Honor of the Sacred Heart of Jesus The Little Office of the Blessed Virgin Mary, from Candlemas until Advent Joyful Mysteries Sorrowful Mysteries Glorious Mysteries

O God, Who in the extremity of her sickness, didst wondrously refresh Thy blessed Virgin Juliana with the precious Body of Thy Son: grant, we beseech Thee; that, in the agony of death, we may by her intercession and merits be so strengthened and refreshed thereby, that we may attain in safety to our heavenly country. Through our Lord etc.

(Roman Breviary)

Saint Juliana Falconieri was born in 1270, in answer to prayer. Her father was the builder of the splendid church of the Annunziata in Florence, while her uncle, Saint Alexis Falconieri, became one of the seven Founders of the Servite Order. Under his surveillance Juliana grew up "more like an angel than a human being," as he said. Her great modesty was remarkable; never during her entire lifetime did she look at her reflection in a mirror. The mere mention of sin made her shudder and tremble, and once, on hearing of a scandal, she fainted.

Her devotion to the sorrows of Our Lady drew her to the Servants of Mary or Servite Order, and at the age of fourteen, after refusing an offer of marriage, she received the habit from Saint Philip Benizi, General of the Order. Her sanctity attracted many novices, for whose direction she was bidden to draw up a rule, and thus she became foundress of the Mantellate.

She was the servant of her Sisters rather than their mistress, while outside her convent she led a life of apostolic charity, converting sinners, reconciling enemies, and healing the sick. She was sometimes rapt for whole days in ecstasy, and her prayers saved the Servite Order when it was in danger of being suppressed.

Saint Juliana in her old age suffered various painful illnesses. She was wasting away through a disease of the stomach which prevented her taking food, and bore her silent agony with constant cheerfulness, grieving only for the privation of Holy Communion. At last, when in her seventieth year she was at the point of death, she begged to be allowed once more to see and adore the Blessed Sacrament. It was brought to her cell and reverently laid on a corporal, which was placed over her heart. At this moment she expired, and the Sacred Host disappeared. After her death the form of the Host was found stamped upon her heart, at the exact spot over which the Blessed Sacrament had been placed. Saint Juliana died in her convent in Florence in 1340. Miracles have been frequently effected through her intercession.

Litany of the Saints

O God, Who dost gladden us by the annual feast of Thy holy Martyrs, Gervase and Protase, mercifully grant that we who rejoice in their merits may be inspired by their examples. Through our Lord etc.

(Roman Breviary)

†

June 18th: Sunday within the Octave of Corpus Christi. St. Ephrem the Syrian, Deacon, Confessor, and Doctor of the Church and Sts. Mark and Marcellianus, Martyrs

Sunday within the Octave of Corpus Christi Sunday within the Octave of Corpus Christi Gospel: Q and A. Children's Sermon for the Sunday within the Octave of Corpus Christi First Communion by Mother Mary Loyola Spiritual Communion Manner of Hearing Mass At Home: For those who on account of sickness, old age, or for other proper reasons cannot assist at holy Mass, especially on Sundays and Holidays

Unworthy Communion: The Catholic Teaching Against Sacrilegious Communion. Also Includes the Refusal of the Sacraments to Public Sinners. This Applies to divorced and remarried Catholics, public heretics, those living openly in fornication (cohabitation without marriage) and homosexual unions etc. What Cannot and What Can Be Reformed in the Church. What Every Christian Must Believe and Do to be Saved.

Novena to St. Aloysius Gonzaga: June 13th - June 21st Novena to the Sacred Heart: June 15th - June 23rd Novena to the St. John the Baptist: June 16th - June 24th Index of Prayers for the Holy Souls in Purgatory June Meditations in Honor of the Sacred Heart of Jesus Links for the Sacred Heart of Jesus During the Month of June The Little Office of the Blessed Virgin Mary, from Candlemas until Advent 30 Days Prayer to the
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Related Links for Catholic Fathers

Prayer Book: The Christian Father: Includes Litany of the Christian Father, Fathers Prayers for Children and How to Raise Catholic Children Religious and Moral
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Catholic Family St. Joseph, Spouse of the Blessed Virgin Mary, Confessor, and Patron of the Universal Church St. Joseph Additional Prayers Short Explanation of the Prayer: Our Father Prayer and Devotions to St. Joachim, the Father of the Blessed Virgin Mary Marriage Index: Links to All Marriage and Family Pages.
Provides answers to all of your questions. Glosary and Cannon Law Included

O God, who hast willed to enlighten Thy Church by the wondrous learning and excellent merits of the life of blessed Ephraem Thy Confessor and Doctor: we suppliantly beseech Thee, that at his intercession Thou mayst defend it by Thy everlasting power against the snares of error and wickedness. Through our Lord etc.

St. Ephrem the Syrian, Deacon, Confessor, and Doctor of the Church God Will Punish You!

The Lord loved him, and adorned him.

R. He clothed him with a robe of glory.

O excellent Doctor, light of holy Church, blessed Ephrem, lover of the divine law, pray unto the Son of God for us.

For theirs is the kingdom of heaven, who have despised the life of the world, and have attained to the rewards of the kingdom, and have washed their robes in the blood of the Lamb.

(Roman Breviary for the Feast of St. Ephrem)

St. Ephrem is the light and glory of the Syriac Church. A mere youth, he entered on the religious life at Nisibis, his native place. Long years of retirement taught him the science of the Saints, and then God called him to Edessa, there to teach what he had learned so well. He defended the Faith against heresies, in books which have made him known as the Prophet of the Syrians. Crowds hung upon his words. Tears used to stop his voice when he preached. He trembled and made his hearers tremble at the thought of God's judgments; but he found in compunction and humility the way to peace, and he rested with unshaken confidence in the mercy of our blessed Lord. "I am setting out," he says, speaking of his own death, "I am setting out on a journey hard and dangerous. Thee, O Son of God, I have taken for my Viaticum. When I am hungry, I will feed on Thee. The infernal fire will not venture near me, for it cannot bear the fragrance of Thy Body and Thy Blood."

His hymns won the hearts of the people, drove out the hymns of the Gnostic heretics, and gained for him the title which he bears in the Syriac Liturgy to this day "the Harp of the Holy Ghost." Passionate as he was by nature, from the time he entered religion no one ever saw him angry. Abounding in labors till the last, he toiled for the suffering poor at Edessa in the famine of 378, and there lay down to die in extreme old age. What was the secret of success so various and so complete? Humility, which made him distrust himself and trust God. Till his death, he wept for the slight sins committed in the thoughtlessness of boyhood. He refused the dignity of the priesthood. "I," he told St. Basil, whom he went to see at the bidding of the Holy Spirit, "I am that Ephrem who has wandered from the path of heaven." Then bursting into tears, he cried out, "O my father, have pity on a sinful wretch, and lead me on the narrow way."

Reflection--Humility is the path which leads to abiding peace and brings us near to the consolations of God.

Grant, we beseech Thee, almighty God: that we who celebrate the birthday of Thy Saints Mark and Marcellian, may through through their intercession be delivered from all the evils that are ready to fall upon us. Through our Lord etc.

(Roman Breviary)

Marcus and Marcellianus were twin brothers of an illustrious family in Rome, who had been converted to the Faith in their youth and were honorably married. Diocletian ascending the imperial throne in 284, the heathens raised persecutions. These martyrs were thrown into prison, and condemned to be beheaded. Their friends obtained a respite of the execution for thirty days, that they might prevail on them to worship the false gods, Tranquillinus and Martia, their afflicted heathen parents, in company with their sons' own wives and their little babes, endeavored to move them by the most tender entreaties and tears.

St. Sebastian, an officer of the emperor's household, coming to Rome soon after their commitment, daily visited and encouraged them. The issue of the conferences was the happy conversion of the father, mother, and wives, also of Nicostratus, the public register, and soon after of Chromatius, the judge, who set the Saints at liberty, and, abdicating the magistracy, retired into the country. Marcus and Marcellianus were hid by a Christian officer of the household in his apartments in the palace; but they were betrayed by an apostate, and retaken. Fabian, who had succeeded Chromatius, condemned them to be bound to two pillars, with their feet nailed to the same. In this posture they remained a day and a night, and on the following day were stabbed with lances.

Reflection--We know not what we are till we have been tried. It costs nothing to say we love God above all things, and to show the courage of martyrs at a distance from the danger; but that love is sincere which has stood the proof. "Persecution shows who is a hireling, and who a true pastor," says St. Bernard.

†

June 17th: Saturday within the Octave of Corpus Christi

On the Number of Sins, by St. Aphonsus Di Liguori Reflection on Hell Index of Prayers for the Holy Souls in Purgatory Novena to St. Aloysius Gonzaga: June 13th - June 21st Novena to the Sacred Heart: June 15th - June 23rd Novena to the St. John the Baptist: June 16th - June 24th

The Little Office of the Blessed Virgin Mary, from Candlemas until Advent Joyful Mysteries Sorrowful Mysteries Glorious Mysteries

The Sacrament of Penance

Sacrament of Penance The Sacrament of Penance, All of Your Questions Answered The Conversion of Sinners True Conversion: One of the best sermons for hardened sinners Penitent's Consolation Examination of Conscience Rite of Confession General Confession Contrition On Contrition and the Purpose of Amendment Contrition: Explanation of Perfect Contrition and the Necessity of Contrition for Forgiveness of Sins The Nature of Sin Mortal Sin Conscience Index of the Ten Commandments Sermon on Keeping the 10 Commandments Time is No More They that Live in Sin The Sinner Seeks God The Sinner at Death The Necessity of Prayer for Sinners

On the Terrors of the last Day

Consider first, that nothing can be conceived more terrible than the prospect the scripture gives us of the last accounting day, with all the prodigies that shall go before it. The sun shall be darkened; the moon red as blood; the stars without light, and seeming to fall from the firmament; the earth shall be shaken with violent earthquakes; the sea swelling and roaring with unusual tempests; the elements all in confusion, and whole nature in disorder. The great day of the Lord is near, saith the prophet, (Sophon. i. 14, 15.) it is near, and exceeding swift :--That day is a day of wrath, a day of tribulation and distress, a day of calamity and misery, a day of darkness and obscurity, a day of clouds and whirlwinds, &c. But oh! what shall then be the thoughts of unhappy sinners, who shall see themselves threatened with all these frightful signs of the divine indignation? Alas! they shall perfectly wither away, according to the expression of the gospel, (Luke xxi. 26.) for fear and expectation of what shall come upon the whole world; and through the apprehension of that dismal tragedy, which shall suddenly follow after these frightful preludes.

Consider 2dly, that these terrors shall chiefly affect the wicked, against whom they are all levelled: so that they shall begin to say to the mountains: fall upon us, and to the hills cover us, (Luke xxiii. 30.) and hide us from the face of him that sitteth upon the throne, and from the wrath of the Lamb: for the great day of their wrath is come; and who shall be able to stared? Apoc. vi. 16, 17. But as for the true servants of God, who are his friends and children, when these things shall begin to come to pass, they are told (Luke xxii. 28.) to look up, and to lift up their heads; because their redemption is at hand. And surely the more they love God, and take to heart the interest of the glory of Christ, and the coming of his everlasting kingdom ; the more will they rejoice at the approaches, of that day, that shall be so glorious to him, and so happy for all his elect. The day, in which he shall be publicly acknowledged by the whole universe, for the great Lord and judge of all: the day, in which he shall finally triumph over all his enemies, and make all his servants sharers in his triumph and glory: the day, in which he shall put an end to the usurpation of Satan, and to the reign of sin and death; and send them all to their proper place, never to come out any more: the day, in which he shall abolish for ever the corruption of the flesh, together with the old man; and all the errors and lying fooleries of a deluded and deluding world; and shall establish the eternal reign of incorruption, justice, and truth. In fine, the day, in which He shall wonderfully renew both heaven and earth; and bring all his servants into the neverending joy of their Lord. O when shall that happy day come!

Consider 3dly, that after all those frightful symptoms, above rehearsed, of the last agony, and final expiring of this sinful world, a fire shall come raging like a torrent; that shall at once involve all the kingdoms of the earth in devouring flames; sweeping off and consuming all it shall find upon the whole face of the globe, and reducing all to smoke and ashes. Where then, O ye worldlings, will be all these painted toys you are now so fond of? Where will be your gardens and palaces? Where your gold and silver, your costly plate and jewels, your pompous equipages, and whatsoever else you seem to possess in this dream of your mortal life? Alas! all these things shall end in smoke; and when you wake you shall find nothing in your hands, Ps.lxxv. O that men would be wise, and would understand, and would provide for their last end! Deut. xxxii. 29. Do thou at least, O my soul, learn to be wise, by the consideration of this last fire, that shall so suddenly put an end to all these worldly bubbles; and take thou care to provide for thyself, by laying up thy treasure in heaven; where alone it shall be out of the reach of this fiery deluge.

Conclude to be always afraid of sin; to fly and abhor it above ail evil; and thou shalt have nothing to fear at the last day.

†

June 16th: Friday within the Octave of Corpus Christi

In some placed St. John Francis Regis is celebrated

St. John Francis Regis Prayers for the Preservation of Chastity. An Explanation and Defense of the Virtue of Chastity The Corporal Works of Mercy The Spiritual Works of Mercy How to Practice Mental Prayer Spiritual Communion Novena to St. Aloysius Gonzaga: June 13th - June 21st Novena to the Sacred Heart: June 15th - June 23rd

June Meditations in Honor of the Sacred Heart of Jesus Index of Prayers for the Holy Souls in Purgatory The Little Office of the Blessed Virgin Mary, from Candlemas until Advent 30 Days Prayer to the
Blessed Virgin Mary Joyful Mysteries Sorrowful Mysteries Glorious Mysteries

On Spiritual Progress

First Point.--Consider in the fervour with which the crowd congregated to hear Christ and to profit by His doctrine the earnestness with which thou shouldst strive to advance in His service, according to thy state of life. Enter into account with thyself, and consider the means and opportunities afforded thee for progressing in His service, and how little fruit thou hast derived therefrom. Weep over thy tepidity, and beg of God to give thee His Holy Spirit in order that thou mayest serve Him with fervour.

Second Point.--Consider those words of Christ: "Duc in altum,"--"Launch out into the deep." Set sail, abandon the earth, and take to the high sea. These words the Lord addresses to thee, admonishing thee to ascend to greater perfection, to arise from earthly passions, and from all that the world adores, and to ascend to the heights of the Spirit, and to the summit of perfection. Remain not always in the lowest class, but advance to higher things; break the bonds of worldly affections which prevent thee from progressing; extend the sails of thy heart to the favourable wind of the Holy Spirit; take courage to run to the summit of perfection, and to live with God and for God alone. Offer thyself forthwith courageously to what is most arduous and perfect. God will assist thee, and in a short time thou wilt advance much.

Third Point.--Meditate those words that the apostles addressed to Christ, "Master, we have laboured all the night and have taken nothing;" and consider in what thou hast spent thy strength and labour; and how little thou hast profited in the service of God, since thou canst in truth say, "I have laboured many years and gained nothing." And seeing thy poverty, exert thyself to employ thy strength with greater fruit henceforth; examine the causes of thy shortcomings, and bewail them before God; entreat His pardon for thy negligence, and implore grace in order to make up in the future for what thou hast lost in thy past life.

Fourth Point.--Consider the very copious draught of fishes enclosed by the disciples through their obedience to Christ, and how they called their companions to aid them in their toil, and they came and helped them, and both the ships were filled with fish, securing thus great profit from their exertions. Ponder what fruit is derived from labouring in company with the virtuous, and from their exhortations, examples, and earnest labours, and draw thence desires of abiding in the society of the just, and of being assisted by their advice and examples, and of being animated by a holy emulation in the service of God. Behold the profit and progress made by others, who in a short time have far outstripped thee, and excite thyself, with the aid of God, to serve Him better, and to outstrip all others.

†

June 15th: Corpus Christi

Corpus Christi Corpus Christi: Fr. Weninger and the Litany of the Blessed Sacrament Corpus Christi Gospel: Q and A. Defense of the Holy Eucharist Newly Added
Corpus Christi Day, for Children The Sacrament of the
Holy Eucharist

Related Links

St. Thomas Aquinas Catholic Worship Explained Why the Mass is in Latin Manner of Hearing Mass At Home: For those who on account of sickness, old age, or for other proper reasons cannot assist at holy Mass, especially on Sundays and Holidays Behold the Lamb, A Book for Little Folks About the Holy Mass, 1912 The Triumph of the Blessed Sacrament or Exorcism of Nicola Aubry, by Fr. Michael Muller God the Teacher of Mankind: The Holy Sacrifice of the Mass, 1884 The Holy Sacrifice of the Mass, Fr. O' Keeffe, 1891 Papal Bull: Quo Primum, the Tridentine Mass for all Times Spiritual Communion Apparition of St. Michael, the Angel of the Blessed Sacrament

Novena to St. Aloysius Gonzaga: June 13th - June 21st Novena to the Sacred Heart: June 15th - June 23rd The Little Office of the Blessed Virgin Mary, from Candlemas until Advent

O God, Who under a wonderful Sacrament hast left us a memorial of Thy passion: grant us, we beseech Thee, so to venerate the sacred mysteries of Thy body and blood, that we may evermore feel within the fruit of Thy redemption: Who livest etc.

(Roman Breviary)

†

June 14th: St. Basil the Great, Bishop, Confessor and Doctor of the Church

St. Basil the Great, Bishop, Confessor, and Doctor of the Church Refuting Protestant Errors of Private Interpretation A Series of Sermons in Defense of the Catholic Teaching on Oral Tradition, the Word of God, and Errors of Private Interpretation Martin Luther & the Bible What Cannot and What Can Be Reformed in the Church. What Every Christian Must Believe and Do to be Saved. Novena for Corpus Christi: June 7th - June 15th Novena to St. Aloysius Gonzaga: June 13th - June 21st

June Meditations in Honor of the Sacred Heart of Jesus Spiritual Communion Index of Prayers for the Holy Souls in Purgatory

The Little Office of the Blessed Virgin Mary, from Candlemas until Advent 30 Days Prayer to the
Blessed Virgin Mary Joyful Mysteries Sorrowful Mysteries Glorious Mysteries

Graciously hear the prayers, we beseech thee, O Lord, which we offer to Thee on the on the solemnity of blessed Basil Thy Confessor and Bishop: and as he deserved to serve thee worthily, so , by the intercession of his merits, do thou absolve us from all our sins. Through our Lord etc.

The Lord loved him, and adorned him.

R. He clothed him with a robe of glory.

Ant. O excellent Doctor, light of holy Church, blessed Basil, lover of the divine law, pray unto the Son of God for us.

Ant. This man, despising the world and triumphing over earthly things, hath laid up treasure in heaven by word and deed.

V. The Lord conducted the just through the right ways.

R. And showed him the kingdom of God.

(Roman Breviary)

St. Basil was born in Asia Minor. Two of his brothers became bishops, and, together with his mother and sister, are honored as Saints. He studied with great success at Athens, where he formed with St. Gregory Nazianzen the most tender friendship. He then taught oratory; but dreading the honors of the world, he gave up all, and became the father of the monastic life in the East. The Arian heretics, supported by the court, were then persecuting the Church; and Basil was summoned from his retirement by his bishop to give aid against them.

His energy and zeal soon mitigated the disorders of the Church, and his solid and eloquent words silenced the heretics. On the death of Eusebius, he was chosen Bishop of C�sarea. His commanding character, his firmness and energy, his learning and eloquence, and not less his humility and the exceeding austerity of his life, made him a model for bishops. When St. Basil was required to admit the Arians to Communion, the prefect, finding that soft words had no effect, said to him, "Are you mad, that you resist the will before which the whole world bows? Do you not dread the wrath of the emperor, nor exile, nor death?" "No," said Basil calmly; "he who has nothing to lose need not dread loss of goods; you cannot exile me, for the whole earth is my home; as for death, it would be the greatest kindness you could bestow upon me; torments cannot harm me: one blow would end my frail life and my sufferings together."

"Never," said the prefect, "has any one dared to address me thus." "Perhaps," suggested Basil, "you never before measured your strength with a Christian bishop." The emperor desisted from his commands. St. Basil's whole life was one of suffering. He lived amid jealousies and misunderstandings and seeming disappointments. But he sowed the seed which bore goodly fruit in the next generation, and was God's instrument in beating back the Arian and other heretics in the East, and restoring the spirit of discipline and fervor in the Church. He died in 379, and is venerated as a Doctor of the Church.

†

June 13th: St. Anthony, Confessor and Doctor of the Church

St. Anthony of Padua,
Confessor and Doctor St. Anthony Additional Prayers St. Anthony of Padua,
The Miracle-worker Newly Added
St. Anthony of Padua,
Children's Page Novena to the St. Anthony of Padua: June 5th - June 13th

Novena for Corpus Christi: June 7th - June 15th Novena to St. Aloysius Gonzaga: June 13th - June 21st June Meditations in Honor of the Sacred Heart of Jesus Spiritual Communion Index of Prayers for the Holy Souls in Purgatory The Little Office of the Blessed Virgin Mary, from Candlemas until Advent Joyful Mysteries Sorrowful Mysteries Glorious Mysteries

Grant, O Lord, that the festival of blessed Anthony Thy Confessor and Doctor, may gladden Thy Church: so that her children may ever be defended by spiritual help and may become worthy of everlasting bliss. Through our Lord etc.

The Lord loved him, and adorned him.

R. He clothed him with a robe of glory.

Ant. O excellent Doctor, light of holy Church, blessed Anthony, lover of the divine law, pray unto the Son of God for us.

This is he who wrought great things before God, and praised the Lord with his whole heart: May he intercede for the sins of all men.

V. Behold a man without reproach, a true worshiper of God, keeping himself from every evil deed, and ever abiding in innocence.

May he intercede for the sins of all men.

This man, despising the world and triumphing over earthly things, hath laid up treasure in heaven by word and deed.

(Roman Breviary)

Anthony was born at Lisbon, in Portugal, of respectable parents, by whom he was piously brought up, and as a youth he joined an institute of canons regular. But, when the bodies of the five Martyrs of the friars Minor, who had, shortly before this, suffered in Morocco for the faith of Christ, were brought to Coimbra, burning with a desire for martyrdom, he went over to the Franciscan order. Presently, urged by the same desire, he proceeded on his way to the Saracens; but, suffering from ill-health, he was forced to turn back; but when the ship approached the coast of Spain, it was driven by contrary winds to Sicily.

From Sicily he came to Assisi, to the general chapter. From there he went to the hermitage of Monte Paolo in Emilia, where he gave himself up for a long while to divine contemplation, fastings, and vigils. Then, when he had received sacred orders and had been sent to preach the Gospel, the wisdom and eloquence of his discourse was so noted, and excited such a great admiration of him, that once the Sovereign Pontiff, on hearing him preach, called him the Ark of the Testament. But chiefly against heresies did he put forth the whole force of his vigor, from which he gained the name of everlasting Hammer of heretics.

He was the first of his order, on account of his preeminent learning, to teach sacred letters at Bologna and in other places, and he supervised the studies of his brethren. Then, having traveled through many provinces, he came, one year before his death, to Padua, where he left remarkable proofs of his holiness.

One night, when St. Antony was staying with a friend in the city of Padua, his host saw brilliant rays streaming under the door of the Saint's room, and on looking through the keyhole he beheld a little Child of marvellous beauty standing upon a book which lay open upon the table, and clinging with both arms round Antony's neck. With an ineffable sweetness he watched the tender caresses of the Saint and his wondrous Visitor. At last the Child vanished, and Fra Antonio, opening the door, charged his friend, by the love of Him Whom he had seen, to "tell the vision to no man" as long as he was alive.

Finally, having undergone much toil for the glory of God, famous for merits and for miracles, he fell asleep in the Lord upon the Ides of June (June 13), in the year of salvation 1231. The supreme Pontiff Gregory IX added him to the number of the holy Confessors, and Pius XII, upon consultation with the Congregation of Sacred Rites, declared him a Doctor of the universal Church.

†

June 12th: John Facundo, Confessor and St. Basilides and Companions, Martyrs.

St. John of Facundo Novena to the St. Anthony of Padua: June 5th - June 13th Novena for Corpus Christi: June 7th - June 15th

June Meditations in Honor of the Sacred Heart of Jesus The Little Office of the Blessed Virgin Mary, from Candlemas until Advent 30 Days Prayer to the
Blessed Virgin Mary Joyful Mysteries Sorrowful Mysteries Glorious Mysteries

O God, the author of peace and lover of charity, Who didst adorn blessed John Thy Confessor with a marvelous grace in reconciling enemies: grant, by his merits and intercession, that, being strengthened in Thy love, we may not be separated from Thee by any temptations. Through our Lord etc.

(Roman Breviary)

St. John was born at St. Fagondez, in Spain. At an early age he held several benefices in the diocese of Burgos, till the reproaches of his conscience forced him to resign them all except one chapel, where he said Mass daily, preached, and catechised. After this he studied theology at Salamanca, and then labored for some time as a most devoted missionary priest. Ultimately he became a hermit of the Augustinian Order, in the same city. There his life was marked by a singular devotion to the Holy Mass. Each night after Matins he remained in prayer till the hour of celebration, when he offered the Adorable Sacrifice with the most tender piety, often enjoying the sight of Jesus in glory, and holding sweet colloquies with Him.

The power of his personal holiness was seen in his preaching, which produced a complete reformation in Salamanca. He had a special gift of reconciling differences, and was enabled to put an end to the quarrels and feuds among noblemen, at that period very common and fatal. The boldness shown by St. John in reproving vice endangered his life. A powerful noble, having been corrected by the Saint for oppressing his vassals, sent two assassins to slay him. The holiness of the Saint's aspect, however, caused by that peace which continually reigned in his soul, struck such awe into their minds that they could not execute their purpose, but humbly besought his forgiveness. And the nobleman himself, falling sick, was brought to repentance, and recovered his health by the prayers of the Saint whom he had endeavored to murder.

He was also most zealous in denouncing those hideous vices which are a fruitful source of strife, and it was in defence of holy purity that he met his death. A lady of noble birth but evil life, whose companion in sin St. John had converted, contrived to administer a fatal poison to the Saint. After several months of terrible suffering, borne with unvarying patience, St. John went to his reward on June 11, 1479.

Reflection--All men desire peace, but those alone enjoy it who, like St. John, are completely dead to themselves, and love to bear all things for Christ.

†

June 11th: Trinity Sunday.

Manner of Hearing Mass At Home: For those who on account of sickness, old age, or for other proper reasons cannot assist at holy Mass, especially on Sundays and Holidays Spiritual Communion Novena to the Holy Trinity: June 3rd - June 11th The Trinity Trinity Sunday The Solemn Feast of the Most Holy Trinity Prayers and Devotions to the Holy Trinity God the Father Son of God The Holy Ghost Trinity Sunday Gospel: Q and A Novena to the Holy Spirit Prayer for the Seven
Gifts of the Holy Spirit Gifts of the Holy Spirit, by Dom Gueranger Prayers and Devotions
to the Holy Ghost

On the Mode of Teaching Christian Doctrine to Children Children Prayers to the Trinity Religious and Moral
Training of Children June Meditations in Honor of the Sacred Heart of Jesus

Almighty, everlasting God, Who hast granted that in confessing the true faith Thy servants should acknowledge the glory of the eternal Trinity and in the power of the divine majesty should also worship unity: grant that by steadfastness in the same faith we may always be defended from all harms. Through our Lord etc.

In the second part of the year, the six months from Trinity to Advent, the Holy Ghost whose reign begins at Pentecost, comes to repeat to us what our Lord Himseif has taught us in the first part, the six months from Advent to Trinity Sunday. The fundamental truth on which everything in the Christian religion rests, is the dogma of the Holy Trinity from whom all comes (Epistle), and to whom all baptized in His name must return (Gospel). In the course of the cycle, having called to our minds in order, God the Father, Author of creation, God the Son, Author of redemption and God the Holy Ghost, Author of our sanctification, the Church today, before all else, recapitulates the great mystery by which we acknowledge and adore the Unity of Nature and Trinity of Persons in almighty God (Collect).

"As soon as we have celebrated the coming of the Holy Ghost," says Abbot Rupert, in the twelfth century, "we hail in song the feast of the Holy Trinity, the following Sunday, a place in the calendar well chosen, for immediately after the descent of the Holy Spirit, preaching and conversion began and faith through baptism and confession in the Name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Ghost." The dogma of the Holy Trinity is affirmed, in the liturgy, on every hand. It is in the Name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Ghost that we begin and end the Mass and Divine Office, and that we confer the Sacraments. All the Psalms end with the Gloria, the Hymns with the Doxology, and the Prayers by a conclusion in honour of the three Divine Persons. Twice during the Mass we are reminded that it is to the Holy Trinity that the Mass is being offered.

The dogma of the Trinity is expressed in the very fabric of our churches. Our fathers delighted to find a symbol of it in the admirably proportioned height, breadth and length of these buildings, in their primary and secondary divisions; the sanctuary, the choir and nave; the ground-floor, the triforium and the clerestory; the three entrances, three doors, three bays, three gables, and often three towers. On every hand, even to the smallest detail of decoration, the number three, repeated frequently, denotes a well conceived plan and a profound faith in the Blessed Trinity.

The same thought is expressed in Christian iconography, in various ways. Up to the twelfth century, God the Father is represented by a hand, emerging from the clouds in blessing and often surrounded by a nimbus containing a cross. By this hand is symbolized divine Omnipotence. In thirteenth and fourteenth century work one sees the face and then the figure of the Father. From the fifteenth century the Father is represented as an old man in the garb of a pontiff. Up to the twelfth century, God the Son was at first represented by a cross, by a lamb or again by a gracious youth, in the same way that Apollo was represented in the pagan world. From the eleventh to the sixteenth century Christ appears bearded and in the prime of life. From the thirteenth century He is seen carrying the cross and often He is depicted as the Lamb.

The Holy Ghost was, at first, represented under the form of a dove, whose outspread wings often touch the mouths of both Father and Son to show that He proceeds from both. For the same reason, from the eleventh century He is depicted as a little child. In the thirteenth century He is a youth, in the fifteenth He is a man of ripe age, like the Father and the Son but with a dove above His head or in His hand to distinguish Him from the other two Persons. Since the sixteenth century the dove and the fiery tongues are the only representations of the Holy Ghost. Quite recently it was expressly forbidden to represent Him under a human form. Since 1628 was also forbidden the monstrous picture of three faces on one body.

As a symbol of the Trinity the triangle has been borrowed from geometry, depicting by its form the divine Unity in which are inscribcd three angles, expressing the three Persons in God. Trefoil plants, as shamrock and clover serve to represent this great mystery, as also do three circles interwoven, with the word Unity inscribed in the central space belonging to all three.

A miniature of the XVIth cent. represents the Father and Son as like each other, with the same nimbus, the same triple crown, the hair worn in the same way and a single cloak drawing them close together. Further, they are united by the same book of divine Wisdom as well as by the Holy Ghost who joins one to the other by the ends of His wings. But the Father is older than the Son, and the beard of the one is pointed while that of the other is round. The Father wears a robe without a girdle and carries the globe of the earth in his hand, while the Son as a Priest, wears an alb with cincture and stole.

The feast of the Holy Trinity owes its origin to the fact that the ordinations of the Ember Saturday, which took place in the evening, were prolonged to the next day, which was Sunday and which had no proper liturgy. As this day is consecrated throughout the year to the Most Holy Trinity, the votive Mass composed in the seventh century to celebrate this mystery was said on the First Sunday after Pentecost; and since it occupied a fixed place in the liturgical calendar, this Mass was considered as establishing this Sunday as a special feast of the Blessed Trinity. Stephen, Bishop of Li�ge, who was born about 850, composed in the tenth century its office which was revised later on by the Franciscans.

The feast was in 1334 extended to the universal Church by Pope John XXII and made a Double of the first class by Pius X.

That we may ever be armed against all adversity, let us today, with the liturgy, make our solemn profession of faith in the Holy and Eternal Trinity and His indivisible Unity.

June 11th: St. Barnabas, Apostle

St. Barnabas, Apostle The 12 Apostles and the Apostles Creed Explained The Labor of the Apostles:
Their Teaching of the Nations

Novena to the St. Anthony of Padua: June 5th - June 13th Novena for Corpus Christi: June 7th - June 15th

The Little Office of the Blessed Virgin Mary, from Candlemas until Advent Joyful Mysteries Sorrowful Mysteries Glorious Mysteries Index of Prayers for the Holy Souls in Purgatory

O God, Who dost gladden us by the worthy deeds and availing prayers of thy blessed Apostle Barnabas, mercifully grant unto us who seek through him Thy manifold gifts, by the tenderness of Thy mercy effectually to obtain the same. Through our Lord etc.

(Roman Breviary)

We read that in the first days of the Church, the multitude of believers had but one heart and one soul; and none said that anything which he possessed was his own. (Acts 4:32) Amid this fervent company of Christians who practiced evangelical poverty, one only is singled out by name, Joseph, a rich Levite from Cyprus. He, having land, sold it, and bringing the price, laid it at the feet of the Apostles. They then gave him a new name, Barnabas, son of consolation. He was a good man, full of the Holy Spirit and of faith, and was soon chosen for an important mission, the rapidly growing Church of Antioch. Here he perceived the great work which was waiting to be done among the Greeks, and therefore he hastened to seek out and bring Saint Paul to Antioch, from his retirement at Tarsus.

When the prophet Agabus at Antioch foretold a great universal famine, Barnabas and Paul were selected by the faithful, to take to the Church of Jerusalem their generous offerings for the poor of that city. It was also at Antioch that the two Saints were named for the apostolate of the Gentiles; and they sailed together for Cyprus and then to the cities of Asia Minor. Their preaching struck men with amazement, and some cried out, "The gods have come down to us in the likeness of men!" calling Paul Mercury, and Barnabas Jupiter. The Saints traveled together once again, to the Council of Jerusalem, and told of the "signs and wonders which God had wrought among the Gentiles" during their missionary journey. Shortly after this they separated; Barnabas with John Mark went to Cyprus, while Paul with Silas returned to Asia Minor.

The tradition of Milan, Italy, reveals that Saint Barnabas went from Cyprus to Italy, and in Milan founded its church; he is still honored there as its first bishop. After seven years he consecrated Saint Anathalon to replace him, and returned to Cyprus to visit the churches. He crisscrossed the island several times to bring to every city and village the Holy Name of the Son of God. In Salamis, some of the recalcitrants plotted together to kill him. He was aware of the conspiracy; nonetheless, after foretelling to John Mark that he would die that same day, he went to the synagogue to preach as usual. It was there that he was stoned as a blasphemer, in the year 61 of our era. Saint John Mark succeeded in burying him near Salamis.

†

June 10th: St. Margaret, Queen and Widow and Ember Saturday. Day of Fast.

St. Margaret Queen, Widow Trials in the Married State Blessings of Many Children Prayer Book: The Christian Mother A Catholic's Moral Guide to Sacramental Marriage and Family Life, Includes a Glossary of Faith and Morals for the Married and Unmarried The Little Office of the Blessed Virgin Mary, from Candlemas until Advent

Prayer for the Seven
Gifts of the Holy Spirit Prayers and Devotions
to the Holy Ghost

Novena to the Holy Trinity: June 3rd - June 11th Novena to the St. Anthony of Padua: June 5th - June 13th Novena for Corpus Christi: June 7th - June 15th

The Sacrament of Penance

Sacrament of Penance The Sacrament of Penance, All of Your Questions Answered The Conversion of Sinners True Conversion: One of the best sermons for hardened sinners Penitent's Consolation Examination of Conscience Rite of Confession General Confession Contrition On Contrition and the Purpose of Amendment Contrition: Explanation of Perfect Contrition and the Necessity of Contrition for Forgiveness of Sins The Nature of Sin Mortal Sin Conscience Index of the Ten Commandments Sermon on Keeping the 10 Commandments Time is No More They that Live in Sin The Sinner Seeks God The Sinner at Death The Necessity of Prayer for Sinners

O God, Who hast made blessed Queen Margarret to be admired by reason of her great charity to the poor: grant that, through her intercession and example, Thy love may be continually renewed in our hearts. Through our Lord etc.

(Roman Breviary)

St. Margaret's signifies "pearl;" "a fitting name," says Theodoric, her confessor and her first biographer, "for one such as she." Her soul was like a precious pearl. A life spent amidst the luxury of a royal court never dimmed its lustre, or stole it away from Him who had bought it with His blood. She was the grand, daughter of an English king; and in 1070 she became the bride of Malcolm, and reigned Queen of Scotland till her death in 1093. How did she become a Saint in a position where sanctity is so difficult? First, she burned with zeal for the house of God.

She built churches and monasteries; she busied herself in making vestments; she could not rest till she saw the laws of God and His Church observed throughout her realm. Next, amidst a thousand cares, she found time to converse with God--ordering her piety with such sweetness and discretion that she won her husband to sanctity like her own. He used to rise with her at night for prayer; he loved to kiss the holy books she used, and sometimes he would steal them away, and bring them back to his wife covered with jewels. Lastly, with virtues so great, she wept constantly over her sins, and begged her confessor to correct her faults. St. Margaret did not neglect her duties in the world because she was not of it. Never was a better mother.

She spared no pains in the education of her eight children, and their sanctity was the fruit of her prudence and her zeal. Never was a better queen. She was the most trusted counsellor of her husband, and she labored for the material improvement of the country. But, in the midst of the world's pleasures, she sighed for the better country, and accepted death as a release. On her death-bed she received the news that her husband and her eldest son were slain in battle. She thanked God, Who had sent this last affliction as a penance for her sins. After receiving Holy Viaticum, she was repeating the prayer from the Missal, "O Lord Jesus Christ, Who by Thy death didst give life to the world, deliver me." At the words "deliver me," says her biographer, she took her departure to Christ, the Author of true liberty.

Reflection--All perfection consists in keeping a guard upon the heart. Wherever we are, we can make a solitude in our hearts, detach ourselves from the world, and converse familiarly with God. Let us take St. Margaret for our example and encouragement.

†

June 9th: Sts. Primus and Felicianus, Martyrs, Ember Friday. Day of Fast and Abstinence

Ss. Primus and Felician, Martyrs Newly Added
Pentecost Thursday: Fire as the Symbol of the Graces of the Holy Ghost, Fr. Zollner, 1911

Prayer for the Seven
Gifts of the Holy Spirit Prayers and Devotions
to the Holy Ghost

Novena to the Holy Trinity: June 3rd - June 11th Novena to the St. Anthony of Padua: June 5th - June 13th Novena for Corpus Christi: June 7th - June 15th

Grant, we beseech Thee, O Lord, that we may ever honor the festival of Thy holy Martyrs Primus and Felicianus: and by their prayersmay obtain the gift of Thy protection. Through our Lord etc.

(Roman Breviary)

These two martyrs were brothers, and lived in Rome, toward the latter part of the third century, for many years, mutually encouraging each other in the practice of all good works. They seemed to possess nothing but for the poor, and often spent both nights and days with the confessors in their dungeons, or at the places of their torments and execution. Some they encouraged to perseverance, others, who had fallen, they raised again, and they made themselves the servants of all in Christ, that all might attain to salvation through Him.

Though their zeal was most remarkable, they had escaped the dangers of many bloody persecutions, and were grown old in the heroic exercises of virtue, when it pleased God to crown their labors with a glorious martyrdom. The pagans raised so great an outcry against them that they were both apprehended and put in chains. They were inhumanly scourged, and then sent to a town twelve miles from Rome to be farther chastised, as avowed enemies to the gods. There they were cruelly tortured, first both together, afterward separately. But the grace of God strengthened them, and they were at length both beheaded on the 9th of June.

Reflection.-- soul which truly loves God regards all the things of this world as nothing. The loss of goods, the disgrace of the world, torments, sickness, and other afflictions are bitter to the senses, but appear light to him that loves. If we cannot bear our trials with patience and silence, it is because we love God only in words. "One who is slothful and lukewarm complains of everything, and calls the lightest precepts hard," says Thomas � Kempis

June 9th: Our Lady Mother of Grace (In Some Places)

Ave Maria: Hail Mary, Full of Grace The Little Office of the Blessed Virgin Mary, from Candlemas until Advent 30 Days Prayer to the
Blessed Virgin Mary Joyful Mysteries Sorrowful Mysteries Glorious Mysteries

Prayer to Our Lady, Mother of Grace

Most holy Mary, great Queen of Heaven, the very treasure of life and ever-flowing channel of Divine grace, by thine ineffable virtues thou wast so pleasing in the sight of God, that thou didst merit to conceive in thy virginal womb the very Author of life and of grace, Jesus Christ our Lord; and by becoming the Mother of the God-made man, thou didst become likewise the Mother of redeemed humanity. Mother, therefore, of grace and of life, of mercy and forgiveness, turn upon me thy motherly countenance; behold my many miseries both in body and soul; raise me up to a state of perfect friendship with Almighty God, obtain for me the grace of final perseverance. And since thy prayers, O Mary, are all-powerful with our Lord, permit me, miserable as I am, to choose thee as my special patroness. With the help of thy mighty intercession I am sure to obtain from thy Divine Son all the graces necessary to serve God faithfully. In such wise thou wilt show thyself unto me the Mother of Divine grace as indeed thou art, and I, thanks to the assistance obtained by thee, will be enabled to live in holiness on earth and hereafter will enjoy the happy lot of praising thee eternally in Heaven. Amen.

†

June 8th: Pentecost Thursday.

Newly Added
Pentecost Thursday: Fire as the Symbol of the Graces of the Holy Ghost, Fr. Zollner, 1911

Prayer for the Seven
Gifts of the Holy Spirit Prayers and Devotions
to the Holy Ghost

Novena to the Holy Trinity: June 3rd - June 11th Novena to the St. Anthony of Padua: June 5th - June 13th Novena for Corpus Christi: June 7th - June 15th The Little Office of the Blessed Virgin Mary, from Candlemas until Advent 30 Days Prayer to the
Blessed Virgin Mary Joyful Mysteries Sorrowful Mysteries Glorious Mysteries

O God, who on this day didst instruct the hearts of the faithful by the light of the Holy Ghost: grant that by the same Spirit we may relish what is right, and ever rejoice in His consolation. Through our Lord ect.

V. The Holy Ghost, the Comforter, alleluia.

R. Shall teach you all things, alleluia.

R. But the Advocate, the Holy Ghost whom the Father will send in my name, He shall teach you all things, and bring all things to your mind, whatever I have said unto you, alleluia.

(Roman Breviary)

†

June 7th: Pentecost Wednesday. Ember Wednesday. Day of Fast.

Wednesday in Whitsun Part 14: Does Satan Exist? Part 3: Temptations and the
            Devils who Tempt Part 2: Lead us not into
            Temptation The Spiritual Combat
by Fr. Scupoli, 1865

Prayer for the Seven
Gifts of the Holy Spirit Prayers and Devotions
to the Holy Ghost

Novena to the Holy Trinity: June 3rd - June 11th Novena to the St. Anthony of Padua: June 5th - June 13th The Little Office of the Blessed Virgin Mary, from Candlemas until Advent 30 Days Prayer to the
Blessed Virgin Mary Joyful Mysteries Sorrowful Mysteries Glorious Mysteries

May our hearts be enlightened, O Lord, we beseech Thee, by the Comforter, who proceeds from Thee: and may he guide us unto all truth, even as Thy Son promised: Who liveth . . in the unity of the same.

V. They were all fileed with the Holy Ghost, alleluia.

R. And began to speak, alleluia.

R. The Lord taught them learning and wisdom, alleluia: he established in them the grace of His Spirit, And filled their hearts with understanding, alleluia.

V. For indeed and suddenly with a sound the Holy Ghost came upon them. And filled their hearts with understanding, alleluia.

(Roman Breviary)

       †

June 6th: Pentecost Tuesday. St. Norbert, Bishop

Tuesday in Whitsun Week Prayer for the Seven
Gifts of the Holy Spirit Prayers and Devotions
to the Holy Ghost St. Norbert, Bishop and Confessor Sermon on Keeping the 10 Commandments

Novena to the Holy Trinity: June 3rd - June 11th Novena to the St. Anthony of Padua: June 5th - June 13th The Little Office of the Blessed Virgin Mary, from Candlemas until Advent 30 Days Prayer to the
Blessed Virgin Mary Joyful Mysteries Sorrowful Mysteries Glorious Mysteries

O God, Who didst make blesed Norbert Thy Confessor and Bishop an illustrious preacher of Thy word, and through him didst beget a new family in Thy Church: grant, we beseech Thee, that his merits may so plead for us, that by Thy help we may be able to practice what he taught both by word and example. Through our Lord etc.

V. The Holy Ghost, the Comforter, alleluia.

R. Shall teach you all things, alleluia.

R. There appeared to the Apostles parted tongues as it were of fire, alleluia: And the Holy Ghost sat upon each one of them, alleluia, alleluia.

V. And they began to speak in foreign tongues, according as the Holy Ghost gave them to speak.

R. The Apostles spoke in foreign tongues the wonderful works of God, according as the Holy Ghost gave them to speak, alleluia.

V. They were all filled with the Holy Ghost, and began to speak, according as the Holy Ghost gave them to speak, alleluia.

(Roman Breviary)

Of noble rank and rare talents, Norbert passed a most pious youth, and entered the ecclesiastical state. By a strange contradiction, his conduct now became a scandal to his sacred calling, and at the court of the Emperor Henry IV. he led, like many clerics of that age, a life of dissipation and luxury. One day, when he was thirty years of age, he was thrown half dead from his horse, and on recovering his senses, resolved upon a new life. After a severe and searching preparation, he was ordained priest, and began to expose the abuses of his Order. Silenced at first by a local council, he obtained the Pope's sanction and preached penance to listening crowds in France and the Netherlands.

In the wild vale of Pr�montr� he gave to some trained disciples the rule of St. Austin, and a white habit to denote the angelic purity proper to the priesthood. The Canons Regular, or Premonstratensians, as they were called, were to unite the active work of the country clergy with the obligations of the monastic life. Their fervor renewed the spirit of the priesthood, quickened the faith of the people, and drove out heresy. A vile heretic, named Tankelin, appeared at Antwerp, in the time of St. Norbert, and denied the reality of the priesthood, and especially blasphemed the Blessed Eucharist. The Saint was sent for to drive out the pest.

By his burning words he exposed the impostor and rekindled the faith in the Blessed Sacrament. Many of the apostates had proved their contempt for the Blessed Sacrament by burying it in filthy places. Norbert bade them search for the Sacred Hosts. They found them entire and uninjured, and the Saint bore them back in triumph to the tabernacle. Hence he is generally painted with the monstrance in his hand. In 1126 Norbert found himself appointed Bishop of Magdeburg; and there, at the risk of his life, he zealously carried on his work of reform, and died, worn out with toil, at the age of fifty-three.

†

June 5th: Pentecost Monday

Monday in Whitsun Week Prayer for the Seven
Gifts of the Holy Spirit Prayers and Devotions
to the Holy Ghost Whit Sunday/ Pentecost Pentecost Sunday Sermons Children's Sermon for Pentecost Sunday, The Coming of the Holy Ghost Pentecost Gospel: Q and A Queen of Apostles The Seven Gifts of the Holy Ghost Novena to the Holy Trinity: June 3rd - June 11th Novena to the St. Anthony of Padua: June 5th - June 13th The Holy Ghost and the Mission of the Church The Sins Against the Holy Ghost Examination of Conscience: The Six Sins Against the Holy Ghost

Children's Retreat: Before Confirmation, Imprimatur 1907 The Sacrament of Confirmation Catholic Worship, Explained

The Little Office of the Blessed Virgin Mary, from Candlemas until Advent June Meditations for the Sacred Heart

O God, Who gavest the Holy Ghost to Thy Apostles: grant to Thy people the fruit of their loving prayer; that on those, to whom Thou hadst given faith, Thou mayest also bestow peace. Through our Lord etc.

V. The Spirit of the Lord has filled the whole world, alleluia.

R. And that which contains all thing, has knowledge of the voice, alleluia.

R. I will not now call you servants, but my friends; because you have known all things, whatsoever I have done amount you, alleluia: Receive the Holy Ghost who is your Comforter within you: the same is He, whome the Father will send unto you, alleluia.

V. You are My friends, if you do whatsoever I command you.

R. The Holy Ghost Who proceeds from the throne, entered unseen into the hearts of the apostles with a new token of sanctification. So that all manner of tongues should spring to their lips, alleluia.

V. The fire of God came not to burn, but to enlighten, and to give them the gifts of His grace. So that all manner of tongues should spring to their lips, alleluia.

Ant. God so loved the world that He gave His only-begotten Son: that whosoever believes in him should not perish, but should have everlasting life, alleluia.

Ant. If any man love me, he will keep my words: and my Father will love him, and We will come to him, and make Our abode with him, alleluia.

(Roman Breviary)

†

June 4th: The Feast of Pentecost

Manner of Hearing Mass At Home: For those who on account of sickness, old age, or for other proper reasons cannot assist at holy Mass, especially on Sundays and Holidays Whit Sunday/ Pentecost Pentecost Sunday Sermons Children's Sermon for Pentecost Sunday, The Coming of the Holy Ghost Prayers and Devotions
to the Holy Ghost Pentecost Gospel: Q and A Queen of Apostles Prayer for the Seven
Gifts of the Holy Spirit The Seven Gifts of the Holy Ghost Novena to the Holy Spirit: May 27th - June 4th Novena to the Holy Trinity: June 3rd - June 11th The Holy Ghost and the Mission of the Church The Sins Against the Holy Ghost Examination of Conscience: The Six Sins Against the Holy Ghost

Children's Retreat: Before Confirmation, Imprimatur 1907 The Sacrament of Confirmation Catholic Worship, Explained

The Little Office of the Blessed Virgin Mary, from Candlemas until Advent June Meditations for the Sacred Heart

O God, Who on this day didst instruct the hearts of the faithful by the light of the Holy Ghost: grant that by the same spirit we may relish what is right, and ever rejoice in His consolation. Through our Lord etc.

(Roman Breviary)

I t would be well, beloved brethren, to consider briefly the words of the lesson from the Gospel, that afterwards we may have more time to spend on the consideration of this great festival. Today the Holy Spirit, suddenly with a sound, came down upon the disciples and changed their carnal minds, filling them with love for himself; and while outwardly fiery tongues appeared, inwardly their hearts were kindled into flame; for while they "received the presence of God in the form of fire, the flames of his love engulfed them. The Holy Ghost himself is love, and so John says: God is charity. He, then, that desires God with all his mind, in truth possesses him already whom he loves. Neither can anyone love God, if he does not possess him whom he loves.

B ut behold, if anyone of you were asked whether he loved God, he would reply with confidence and conviction of mind: I do. But in the very beginning of this lesson you have heard what the Truth himself says: If anyone love me, he will keep my word.

T he test of love, then, is whether it is shown in works. And so in his epistle St. John says again: He who says, I love God, and does not keep the commandments, is a liar. For then do we truly love God and keep his commandments, if we deny ourselves the gratification of our appetites. He who still abandons himself to unlawful desires, certainly does not love God, since of his own will he opposes him.

A nd my Father will love him, and We will come to him and will make our bode with him. Consider, beloved brethren, what a great honor it is to have God coming into our hearts as a guest. Indeed if some rich or powerful friend were entering our house we should make all haste to have the house cleaned throughout, lest he should see something that would displease him. Let the one, then, who is preparing the house of his mind to receive God, cleanse it from all the filth of evil works. But mark what the Truth himself says: We will come and will make our abode with him. For there are some, whose hearts He enters, but does not abide there.

T his is because, although they have been brought to acknowledge God on acknowledge God on account of something that has pricked them with remorse, yet in time of temptation they forget that very thing, for which their conscience pricked them, and so they return to renew those offenses as though they they had never repented.

†

June 3rd: Vigil of Pentecost. Day of Fast and First Saturday.

First Saturday Devotions The Vigil of Pentecost Children's Retreat: Before Confirmation, Imprimatur 1907 The Sacrament of Confirmation Catholic Worship, Explained

Novena to the Holy Spirit: May 27th - June 4th Novena to the Holy Trinity: June 3rd - June 11th Eastertide Prayers The Little Office of the Blessed Virgin Mary, from Candlemas until Advent The Little Office of the Blessed Virgin Mary, from Candlemas until Advent Joyful Mysteries Sorrowful Mysteries Glorious Mysteries

The Sacrament of Penance

Sacrament of Penance The Sacrament of Penance, All of Your Questions Answered The Conversion of Sinners True Conversion: One of the best sermons for hardened sinners Penitent's Consolation Examination of Conscience Rite of Confession General Confession Contrition On Contrition and the Purpose of Amendment Contrition: Explanation of Perfect Contrition and the Necessity of Contrition for Forgiveness of Sins The Nature of Sin Mortal Sin Conscience Index of the Ten Commandments Sermon on Keeping the 10 Commandments Time is No More They that Live in Sin The Sinner Seeks God The Sinner at Death The Necessity of Prayer for Sinners

G rant, we beseech Thee, O almighty God, that the brighteness of Thy glory may shine forth upon us; and the light of Thy light by the illumination of the Holy Ghost, may confirm the hearts of those who have been born again by Thy grace. Through our Lord etc.

(Roman Breviary)

Epistle: Acts of the Aposltes xix. 1-8

And it came to pass, while Apollo was at Corinth, that Paul having passed through the upper coasts, came to Ephesus, and found certain disciples. And he said to them: Have you received the Holy Ghost since ye believed? But they said to him: We have not so much as heard whether there be a Holy Ghost. And he said: In what then were you baptized? Who said: In John's baptism. Then Paul said: John baptized the people with the baptism of penance, saying: That they should believe in him who was to come after him, that is to say, in Jesus. Having heard these things, they were baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus. And when Paul had imposed his hands on them, the Holy Ghost came upon them, and they spoke with tongues and prophesied. And all the men were about twelve. And entering into the synagogue, he spoke boldly for the space of three months, disputing and exhorting concerning the kingdom of God.

Gospel: John xiv. 15-21

At that time Jesus said to His disciples: If you love me, keep my commandments. And I will ask the Father, and he shall give you another Paraclete, that he may abide with you for ever. The spirit of truth, whom the world cannot receive, because it seeth him not, nor knoweth him: but you shall know him; because he shall abide with you, and shall be in you. I will not leave you orphans, I will come to you. Yet a little while: and the world seeth me no more. But you see me: because I live, and you shall live. In that day you shall know, that I am in my Father, and you in me, and I in you.

†

June 2nd: Sts. Marcellinus, Peter and Erasmus, Bishop, Martyrs. First Friday

First Friday Devotions Friday After the Octave of the Ascension by Dom Gueranger Sts. Peter and Marcellinus St. Michael/ Exorcism Part 13: A Short Explanation on the Rite of Exorcisms The Triumph of the Blessed Sacrament or Exorcism of Nicola Aubry, by Fr. Michael Muller

St. Erasmus, BM
One of the 14 Holy Helpers 14 Holy Helpers

Novena to the Holy Spirit: May 27th - June 4th The Little Office of the Blessed Virgin Mary, from Candlemas until Advent 30 Days Prayer to the
Blessed Virgin Mary Joyful Mysteries Sorrowful Mysteries Glorious Mysteries

O God, Who dost give us joy by the annual solemnity of Thy blessed martyrs, Marcellinus, Peter and Erasmus: grant, we beseech Thee, that we may be inspired by the examples of those in whose merits we rejoice. Through our Lord etc.

(Roman Breviary)

The exorcist Peter, sent to prison, under the Emperor Diocletian, converted his jailer and all his family, and brought them to the priest Marcellinus who baptized them. The judge Serenus ordered them both to appear before him and they bore witness to Jesus Christ. They were condemned to death and after atrocious torments, were beheaded towards 303.

Possessing the first fruits of the Holy Ghost, they awaited with sighs the adoption of the children of God and their sufferings were in nowise compared with the glory which now shines forth in them. Both saints are mentioned in the Canon of the Mass. The Station of the Saturday on the Second Week of Lent is held in the Church dedicated to them.

St. Erasmus, bishop in Syria, afterwards hermit in Lebanon, was cruelly tortured several times in Antioch and in Illyria under the Emperors Diocletian and Maximian. His legend tells that his entrails were wound round a windleass: he is therefore invoked for internal diseases, as one of the "fourteen auxilliary Saints". He died in peace at Formise in Campania.

Let us follow the examples of courage and fortitude of these holy martyrs whose merits are our joy.

†

June 1st: St. Angela Merici, Virgin. Octave of the Ascension

Octave of the Ascension:
Litany of the Love of God St. Angela Merici, Virgin Novena to the Holy Spirit: May 27th - June 4th The Little Office of the Blessed Virgin Mary, from Candlemas until Advent 30 Days Prayer to the
Blessed Virgin Mary Joyful Mysteries Sorrowful Mysteries Glorious Mysteries

Related Links to the Ascension

The Ascension of Our Lord Sermons: The Ascension The Ascension: from the Liturgical Year, 1870 and the Litany of Jesus Glorified The Feast of the Ascension:
Questions and Answers Children's Sermon for
the Feast of the Ascension The Resurrection and Ascension of Jesus Christ, as Illustrated by Catholic Artist and Historian, James Tissot, 1899

O God, who didst bring to pass that through blessed Angela a new company of holy virgins should grow up within Thy Church: grant, through her intercession, that we may live as angels in the purity of our lives; and, renouncing all earthly joys, may be found worthy to enjoy those that are everlasting. Through our Lord etc.

(Roman Breviary)

On the Unhappy Life
of the Sinner
by St. Alphonsus Di Liguori

There is no peace for the wicked. Is. xlviii. 22. The devil deceives poor sinners, by making them believe, that if they gratify their sensual desires, revenge themselves, or take what belongs to another, they will gain satisfaction and obtain peace: but no, for the reverse will always be their portion; the soul after sin becomes more than ever disquieted and afflicted. The brutes alone, who are created for the earth, can gain contentment from the enjoyments of the earth; but man, who is "created to enjoy God, cannot derive satisfaction from any or all of God's creatures; his only source of happiness is God. O my God, what, of all the delights by which I have offended thee, now remains but bitterness and sorrow to torment me? I do not regret the bitterness which they now cause me; but only the displeasure which they have given Thee, who hast so much loved me.

The wicked are like the raging sea, which cannot rest. Isa. lvii. 20. What is a soul in disgrace with God, but a tempestuous sea, always in agitation? one wave rises and another succeeds, and all are waves of pain and anguish. No one in the world can have all things according to his will. He who loves God, when adversity comes, resigns himself to God's blessed will, and thus secures peace to his soul; but how can the sinner, if he is an enemy of God, pacify himself by resignation to God's holy appointments? Besides, sin always brings with it the dread of divine vengeance. The wicked man fleeth, when no man pursueth. Prov. xxviii. 1. Yes, for his own sin followeth after him, and by the remorse with which it preys upon his soul, makes him suffer an anticipated hell. O my Lord and my God, I am exceedingly sorry for having forsaken Thee; do Thou forgive me and suffer me not to lose Thee any more.

Delight in the Lord, and He will give thee the requests of thy heart. Ps. xxxvi. 4. Man, whither goest thou in search of content? seek after God, and He will satisfy all the desires of thy soul. Seek, says St. Augustin, the one only good, in whom are all other goods. Behold a St. Francis, who when stript of all worldly goods, being still united to God, found in this a heaven even here upon earth, and could not often enough exclaim: My God, my God and my all! Happy the soul that leaves all for God; for in him she finds her all. O Jesus, instead of abandoning me, as I have deserved, Thou offerest me pardon and callest me to Thy love. Behold I return to Thee overwhelmed with sorrow for the evil which I have done, and deeply affected at seeing that even still Thou lovest me after the many offences I have committed against Thee. Thou lovest me, and I also love Thee and love Thee more than myself. Receive me into Thy favour, and do with me what Thou pleasest: only do not deprive me of Thy love. Mary, mother, have pity on me.

†

May 31st: the Queenship of the Blessed Virgin Mary and St. Petronilla,Virgin

The Queenship of the
Blessed Virgin Mary      Newly Added
Children's Sermon: Mary Crowned Queen of Heaven Novena for the Queenship of Mary: May 23rd - May 31st Novena to the Holy Spirit: May 27th - June 4th Mary Queen of All Saints Devotions in honor of the Queenship of Mary Our Lady Queen of Angels Queen of Apostles Mary, Our Advocate with Our Judge, by Fr. Francis Doyle 1879 Meditations for the Month of May dedicated to Our Lady The Child's Month of Mary
for Each Day in May Visits to the Altar of Mary
for Each Day in May Joyful Mysteries Sorrowful Mysteries Glorious Mysteries 30 Days Prayer to the
Blessed Virgin Mary The Little Office of the Blessed Virgin Mary, from Candlemas until Advent The Humility of the Blessed Virgin of Mary The Crown of Twelve Stars True Devotion to the Blessed Virgin Mary by St. Louis Marie de Monfort The Life of the Blessed Virgin Mary as Set Forth in Her Titles from the Litany of Loreto The Book of the Holy Rosary, as explained by the Church Fathers and prefigured in the Old Testament The Life of the Blessed Virgin Mary, St. Joseph, St. Joachim
and St. Anne, 1859 The Excellence of the Rosary, Rev. M. J. Frings, 1912 Our Lady of Good Counsel: Prayers, Litany and Book, "The Virgin Mother of Good Counsel" The Christian Mother

     Newly Added Catholic Book
St. Joan of Arc      Newly Added
False Confidence of Salvation--
A Must Read Render an Account of Your Life: A Must Read for Every Soul

O God, who didst bring to pass that through blessed Angela a new company of holy virgins should grow up within Thy Church: grant, through her intercession, that we may live as angels in the purity of our lives; and, renouncing all earthly joys, may be found worthy to enjoy those that are everlasting. Through our Lord etc.

(Roman Breviary)

If we follow the writings of St. John of Damascus, St. Athanasius, and others, do these not oblige us to call Mary by the name of Queen, since her father David doth receive the highest praise in Scripture as a renowned king, and her Son as the King of kings and Lord of lords, reigning forever? She is Queen, moreover, when compared with the Saints who reign like kings in the heavenly kingdom, co-heirs with Christ, the great King, placed on the same throne with Him, as saith the Scripture. And as Queen she is second to none of the elect, but in dignity is raised so high above both Angels and men that nothing can be higher or holier than she, who alone hath the same Son as God the Father, and who seeth above her only God and Christ, and below her all creatures other than herself.

The great Athanasius said clearly: Mary is not only the Mother of God, but also can truly be called Queen and Lady, since in the fact the Christ who was born of the Virgin Mother is God and Lord and also King. It is to this Queen, therefore, that the words of the Psalmist are applied : Upon thy right hand did stand the Queen in a vesture of gold. Thus Mary is rightly called Queen, not only of heaven, but also of the heavens, as the Mother of the King of Angels, and as the Bride and beloved of the King of the heavens. O Mary, most august Queen and most faithful Mother, to whom no one doth pray in vain who prayeth devoutly, and to whom all mortal men are bound by the enduring memory of so many benefits, again and again reverently do I beseech thee to accept and be pleased with every evidence of my devotion towards thee, to value the poor gift I offer according to the zeal with which it is offered, and to recommend it to thine all-powerful Son.

       †

May 30th: St. Felix, Pope and Martyr. In some places St. John of Arc

Novena for the Queenship of Mary: May 23rd - May 31st Novena to the Holy Spirit: May 27th - June 4th The Little Office of the Blessed Virgin Mary, from Candlemas until Advent The Child's Month of Mary
for Each Day in May Visits to the Altar of Mary
for Each Day in May Meditations for the Month of May dedicated to Our Lady 30 Days Prayer to the
Blessed Virgin Mary Joyful Mysteries Sorrowful Mysteries Glorious Mysteries

O Eternal Shepherd, watch over the peace of Thy flock, and through blessed Felix Thy Martyr and Sovereign Pontiff, whom thou didst appoint shepherd over the whole Church, keep her under Thy constant protection. Through our Lord etc.

Ant. Perpetual light shall shine upon Thy Saints, O Lord, and an eternity of ages, alleluia.

V. O ye holy and just ones, rejoice in the Lord, alleluia.

R. God has chosen you to Himself for an ineritance, alleluia.

(Roman Breviary)

St. Felix was a Roman by birth, and succeeded St. Dionysius in the government of the Church in 269. Paul of Samosata, the proud Bishop of Antioch, to the guilt of many enormous crimes added that of heresy, teaching that Christ was no more than a mere man, in whom the Divine Word dwelt by its operation and as in its temple, with many other gross errors concerning the capital mysteries of the Trinity and Incarnation. Three councils were held at Antioch to examine his cause, and in the third, assembled in 269, being clearly convicted of heresy, pride, and many scandalous crimes, he was excommunicated and deposed, and Domnus was substituted in his place.

As Paul still kept possession of the episcopal house, our Saint had recourse to the Emperor Aurelian, who, though a pagan, gave an order that the house should belong to him to whom the bishops of Rome and Italy adjudged it. The persecution of Aurelian breaking out, St. Felix, fearless of danger, strengthened the weak, encouraged all, baptized the catechumens, and continued to exert himself in converting infidels to the Faith. He himself obtained the glory of martyrdom. He governed the Church five years, and passed to a glorious eternity in 274.

Reflection--The example of Our Saviour and of all His saints ought to encourage us under all trials to suffer with patience and even with joy. We shall soon begin to feel that it is sweet to tread in the steps of a God-man, and shall find that if we courageously take up our crosses, He will make them light by sharing the burden with us.

St. Joan of Arc

Newly Added Catholic Book
St. Joan of Arc

Who today does not know the history of the Maid of Orleans, who saved France from the foreign domination of the English, only to be betrayed by the legitimate prince whom her efforts had crowned at Rheims, then burnt at the stake on May 30, 1431? Both in the French and English languages, many books and articles have honored her since her canonization in 1920 by Pope Benedict XV.

The Holy Father spoke before the bishop of Orleans and others present for the reading of the decree which approved her two final great miracles, needed to proceed with the canonization. He said, We find the memory of Joan of Arc so apt to enkindle love in the French people for their mother country, that we regret being French only in our heart! Many others could say the same, and confirm the exactitude of the proverb: Every Christian has two mother countries--the one where he or she first saw the light of day, and France!

Two years later, Pope Pius XI declared Saint Joan patroness of France with the Most Blessed Virgin, placing her second only to the Mother of God. In that year Monsignor Baudrillart, French historian, wrote that Saint Joan of Arc may be proposed as an example to all young children by her perfect piety; as a model of fidelity to the call of heaven, to all young persons. For artisans, scholars, writers, teachers, she gives excellent example by her respect for truth and her remarkable prudence. Those dedicated to the works of mercy should find inspiration in her charity, visible when she consoled and wept for her wounded and dying enemies. All agricultural workers can invoke her with confidence, for when Joan, with the archbishop of Rheims, rode through the rich fields in the month of August and saw the reapers at work, she expressed a wish, despite the honors she then enjoyed, to die in the midst of the country-folk of France whom she loved. Her illness in prison, her martyrdom in the flames, recommend her intercession to the sick, as also to all who pray for loved ones in purgatory.

Finally, Monsignor Baudrillart concluded, we pray our new Patroness to intercede unceasingly with God and the Most Blessed Virgin that France, its thoughts turned towards the true liberty of God's children and its own ancient dignity, may truly be today as before, the firstborn daughter of the Church. For centuries that title--conferred because of the early conversion of King Clovis and three thousand of his noble soldiers, baptized on Christmas day of 496--was the glory of Christian France. It was later magnificently renewed and embellished by the heroic virgin, Joan of Arc.

†

May 29th: St. Mary Magdalen de Pazzi, Virgin

St. Mary Magdalen de Pazzi, Virgin Eastertide Prayers Novena for the Queenship of Mary: May 23rd - May 31st Novena to the Holy Spirit: May 27th - June 4th The Little Office of the Blessed Virgin Mary, from Candlemas until Advent The Child's Month of Mary
for Each Day in May Visits to the Altar of Mary
for Each Day in May

The Little Office of the Blessed Virgin Mary, from Candlemas until Advent The Child's Month of Mary
for Each Day in May Visits to the Altar of Mary
for Each Day in May Meditations for the Month of May dedicated to Our Lady 30 Days Prayer to the
Blessed Virgin Mary Joyful Mysteries Sorrowful Mysteries Glorious Mysteries

Memorial Day Related Links:

A Memorial to those who have served in the Military Index of Prayers for the Holy Souls in Purgatory Prayers for America Prayers for Peace

Patron Saints of Soldiers and the Military

St. Michael/ Exorcism Devotions to St. Michael St. George St. Ignatius of Loyola, Confessor St. Francis of Assisi, Confessor St. James the Greater, Apostle St. Sebastian, Martyr St. Eustace and Companions, Martyrs St. Martin, Bishop and Confessor

O God, the lover of virginity, Who didst inflame the blessed virgin Mary Magdalen with Thy love, and didst adorn her with heavenly gifts: grant that, as we honor her by keeping her festival, so we may follow the example of her purity and love. Through our Lord etc.

Ant. Come, Spouse of Chris receive the crown, which the Lord hath prepared for thee for all eternity, alleluia.

V. With thy comeliness and thy beauty, alleluia.

R. Set out, proceed prosperously, and reign, alleluia.

(Roman Breviary)

St. Mary Magdalen of Pazzi, of an illustrious house in Florence, was born in the year 1566, and baptized by the name of Catherine. She received her first Communion at ten years of age, and made a vow of virginity at twelve. She took great pleasure in carefully teaching the Christian doctrine to the ignorant. Her father, not knowing her vow, wished to give her in marriage, but she persuaded him to allow her to become a religious. It was more difficult to obtain her mother's consent; but at last she gained it, and she was professed, being then eighteen years of age, in the Carmelite monastery of Santa Maria degli Angeli in Florence, May 17, 1584.

She changed her name Catherine into that of Mary Magdalen on becoming a nun, and took as her motto, "To suffer or die; " and her life henceforth was a life of penance for sins not her own, and of love of Our Lord, Who tried her in ways fearful and strange. She was obedient, observant of the rule, humble and mortified, and had a great reverence for the religious life. She loved poverty and suffering, and hungered after Communion. The day of Communion she called the day of love. The charity that burned in her heart led her in her youth to choose the house of the Carmelites, because the religious therein communicated every day. She rejoiced to see others communicate, even when she was not allowed to do so herself; and her love for her sisters grew when she saw them receive Our Lord.

God raised her to high states of prayer, and gave her rare gifts, enabling her to read the thoughts of her novices, and filling her with wisdom to direct them aright. She was twice chosen mistress of novices, and then made superioress, when God took her to Himself, May 25, 1607. Her body is incorrupt.

Reflection: St. Mary Magdalen of Pazzi was so filled with the love of God that her sisters in the monastery observed it in her love of themselves, and called her "the Mother of Charity" and "the Charity of the Monastery."

†

May 28th: St. Augustine, Bishop Confessor

St. Augustine of Kent,
Bishop and Confessor Manner of Hearing Mass At Home: For those who on account of sickness, old age, or for other proper reasons cannot assist at holy Mass, especially on Sundays and Holidays Spiritual Communion First Communion by Mother Mary Loyola Behold the Lamb, A Book for Little Folks About the Holy Mass, 1912

6th Sunday After Pentecost Children's Sermon for 6th Sunday After Easter 6th Sunday After Easter:
The Sin of Scandal
Questions and Answers The Sin of Scandal The Dangers of Human Respect Eastertide Prayers Render an Account of Your Life: A Must Read for Every Soul Newly Added
False Confidence of Salvation--
A Must Read

Novena for the Queenship of Mary: May 23rd - May 31st Novena to the Holy Spirit: May 27th - June 4th The Little Office of the Blessed Virgin Mary, from Candlemas until Advent The Child's Month of Mary
for Each Day in May Visits to the Altar of Mary
for Each Day in May Meditations for the Month of May dedicated to Our Lady

30 Days Prayer to the
Blessed Virgin Mary Joyful Mysteries Sorrowful Mysteries Glorious Mysteries

O God, Who didst deign to make the light of the true faith shine upon the English people through the preaching and marvelous works of blessed Augustine Thy Confessor and Bishop: grant that, through his intercession, the hearts of those who have gone astray may return to the unity of Thy truth, and that we may all be of one mind in doing Thy will. Through our Lord etc.

(Roman Breviary)

Saint Augustine was prior of the monastery of Saint Andrew on Mount Coelius in Rome, when he was appointed by Saint Gregory the Great as Superior of the forty missionaries he was sending to England. The Christian faith of England, more than that of any other nation of Europe, was the fruit of the labors and spiritual conquests of the ministry of monks. Its deepest Christian roots are more ancient than Saint Augustine and his companions, and date from the era of the Apostles. England, in the first century, furnished its contingent of martyrs during the persecution of Diocletian. England sent its bishops to the first Councils held after the religion of Christ became that of the Empire in 313. But in the time of Saint Augustine, the Anglo-Saxon conquest had cut down almost all the branches of the tree.

When Saint Augustine arrived, ruined churches, scarcely a Christian to be found to narrate a tradition, attested to the sacrilegious and incendiary hand of paganism, despite the labors of Saint Palladius and Saint Germain d'Auxerre in the fifth century. The last Christian Britons had taken refuge in the mountains of Wales. And England, the land of the Angles, had become a land of infamous slave-traders for the continent, including Rome; its merchants did not spare their own people when profit was at stake. In this way did Saint Gregory the Great come to purchase the English boys he saw marketed at the Roman Forum, and raise them in his house, which he had transformed into a monastery. Thus the definitive conversion of England began, in his compassionate heart, when in the sixth year of his pontificate he chose the prior of his own monastery for the mission to England.

Saint Augustine and his companions during their journey heard many reports of the barbarism and ferocity of the pagan English. They were alarmed and wished to turn back. But Saint Gregory sent word to them saying, "Go on, in God's name! The greater your hardships, the greater your crown. May the grace of Almighty God protect you, and permit me to see the fruit of your labor in the heavenly country! If I cannot share your toil, I shall yet share the harvest, for God knows that it is not good-will which is wanting." The band of missionaries went on in obedience, after halting briefly to deliver letters of Saint Gregory at the Abbey of Lerins, and to the bishops of Aix, Tours, Marseille, Vienna, Autun, and Arles, as well as to obtain translators for the mission of the monks.

Landing at Ebbsfleet, they sent ahead of them their translator-emissaries, to say to the king of those lands that they had come from Rome, to announce to him not merely good news, but the Good News of all ages, with its promises of heavenly joy and an eternal reign in the company of the living and true God. They met with the Saxon King Ethelbert who had been reigning for thirty-six years, and with his barons under a great oak tree at Minster in the present county of Kent, and announced to him the Gospel of Jesus Christ. He was predisposed to listen to the missionaries; his Christian wife, Bertha, was a great-granddaughter of Saint Clothilda and Clovis. He wished to deliberate for a few days nonetheless, and when they returned in procession, chanting and preceded by the Cross, he promised only to give them liberty to practice their faith unmolested. He gave them a residence in Canterbury and provided for their needs. Their good example brought many to them for instruction and then Baptism, and at Pentecost 597, the Anglo-Saxon king, too, entered into the unity of the Church of Christ. His example was followed by the greater number of his nobles and people.

By degrees the Faith spread far and wide, and Augustine, as papal legate, set out on a visitation of Britain. He failed in his attempt to enlist the Christian Britons of the west in the work of his apostolate, but his success was otherwise triumphant from south to north. He died after eight years of evangelical labors, but his monks continued them and perpetuated them. The Anglo-Saxon Church which Saint Augustine founded is still famous for its learning, zeal, and devotion to the Holy See, while its calendar commemorates no fewer than 300 Saints, half of whom were of royal birth.

†

May 27th: St. Bede the Venerable, Confessor and Doctor of the Church

St. Bede and the Litany of Intercession for England Novena for the Queenship of Mary: May 23rd - May 31st Novena to the Holy Spirit: May 27th - June 4th The Little Office of the Blessed Virgin Mary, from Candlemas until Advent The Child's Month of Mary
for Each Day in May Visits to the Altar of Mary
for Each Day in May Meditations for the Month of May dedicated to Our Lady 30 Days Prayer to the
Blessed Virgin Mary Joyful Mysteries Sorrowful Mysteries Glorious Mysteries

The Sacrament of Penance

Sacrament of Penance The Sacrament of Penance, All of Your Questions Answered The Conversion of Sinners True Conversion: One of the best sermons for hardened sinners Penitent's Consolation Examination of Conscience Rite of Confession General Confession Contrition On Contrition and the Purpose of Amendment Contrition: Explanation of Perfect Contrition and the Necessity of Contrition for Forgiveness of Sins The Nature of Sin Mortal Sin Conscience Index of the Ten Commandments Sermon on Keeping the 10 Commandments Time is No More They that Live in Sin The Sinner Seeks God The Sinner at Death The Necessity of Prayer for Sinners

O God, Who makest Thy Church illustrious by the learning of blessed Bede Thy Confessor and Doctor mercifully grant to us Thy servants, that we may always be enlightened by his wisdom and assisted by his merits. Through our Lord etc.

(Roman Breviary)

Venerable Bede, the illustrious ornament of the Anglo-Saxon Church and the first English historian, was consecrated -to God at the age of seven, and intrusted to the care of St. Benedict Bishop at Wearmouth. He became a monk in the sister-house of Jarrow, and there trained no less than six hundred scholars, whom his piety, learning, and sweet disposition had gathered round him. To the toils of teaching and the exact observance of his rule he added long hours of private prayer, and the study of every branch of science and literature then known. He was familiar with Latin, Greek, and Hebrew.

In the treatise which he compiled for his scholars, still extant, he threw together all that the world had then stored in history, chronology, physics, music, philosophy, poetry, arithmetic, and medicine. In his Ecclesiastical History he has left us beautiful lives of Anglo-Saxon Saints and holy Fathers, while his commentaries on the Holy Scriptures are still in use by the Church. It was to the study of the Divine Word that he devoted the whole energy of his soul, and at times his compunction was so overpowering that his voice would break with weeping, while the tears of his scholars mingled with his own. He had little aid from others, and during his later years suffered from constant illness; yet he worked and prayed up to his last hour.

The Saint was employed in translating the Gospel of St. John from the Greek up to the hour of his death, which took place on Ascension Day, 735. "He spent that day joyfully," writes one of his scholars. And in the evening the boy who attended him said, "Dear master, there is yet one sentence unwritten." He answered, "Write it quickly." Presently the youth said, "Now it is written" He replied, "Good! thou hast said the truth--consummatum est; take my head into thy hands, for it is very pleasant to me to sit facing my old praying-place, and there to call upon my Father." And so on the floor of his cell he sang, "Glory be to the Father, Son, and Holy Ghost;" and just as he said "Holy Ghost," he breathed his last, and went to the realms above.

Reflection--"The more," says the Imitation of Christ, "a man is united within himself and interiorly simple, so much the more and deeper things doth he understand without labor; for he receiveth the light of understanding from on high."

†

May 26th: St. Philip Neri, Confessor and St. Eleutherius, Pope and Martyr

St. Philip Neri, Confessor: Novena Prayer Newly Added Catholic Book
The Life of St. Philip Neri The Corporal Works of Mercy The Spiritual Works of Mercy Index of Prayers and
Devotions for the Dying The Little Office of the Blessed Virgin Mary, from Candlemas until Advent The Child's Month of Mary
for Each Day in May Visits to the Altar of Mary
for Each Day in May Meditations for the Month of May dedicated to Our Lady

Novena for the Ascension: May 18th - May 26th Novena for the Queenship of Mary: May 23rd - May 31st 30 Days Prayer to the
Blessed Virgin Mary Joyful Mysteries Sorrowful Mysteries Glorious Mysteries

O God, Who hast exalted blessed Philip Neri, Thy Confessor with the glory of Thy Saints: mercifully grant, that we who rejoice in his festival may profit by the example of his virtues. Through our Lord etc.

(Roman Breviary)

Philip was one of the noble line of Saints raised up by God in the sixteenth century to console and bless His Church. After a childhood of angelic beauty the Holy Spirit drew him away from Florence, the place of his birth, showed him the world, that he might freely renounce it, led him to Rome, modelled him in mind and heart and will, and then, as by a second Pentecost, came down in visible form and filled his soul with light and peace and joy. He would have gone to India, but God reserved him for Rome. There he went on simply from day to day, drawing souls to Jesus, exercising them in mortification and charity, and binding them together by cheerful devotions; thus, unconsciously to himself, under the hands of Mary, as he said, the Oratory grew up, and all Rome was pervaded and transformed by its spirit. His life was a continuous miracle, his habitual state an ecstasy. He read the hearts of men, foretold their future, knew their eternal destiny. His touch gave health of body; his very look calmed souls in trouble and drove away temptations. He was gay, genial, and irresistibly winning; neither insult nor wrong could dim the brightness of his joy.

Philip lived in an atmosphere of sunshine and gladness which brightened all who came near him. "When I met him in the street," says one, "he would pat my cheek and say, 'Well, how is Don Pellegrino?' and leave me so full of joy that I could not tell which way I was going." Others said that when he playfully pulled their hair or their ears, their hearts would bound with joy. Marcio Altieri felt such overflowing gladness in his presence that he said Philip's room was a paradise on earth. Fabrizio de Massimi would go in sadness or perplexity and stand at Philip's door; he said it was enough to see him, to be near him. And long after his death it was enough for many, when troubled, to go into his room to find their hearts lightened and gladdened. He inspired a boundless confidence and love, and was the common refuge and consoler of all. A gentle jest would convey his rebukes and veil his miracles. The highest honors sought him out, but he put them from him. He died in his eightieth year, in 1595, and bears the grand title of Apostle of Rome.

Reflection--Philip wished his children to serve God, like the first Christians, in gladness of heart. He said this was the true filial spirit; this expands the soul, giving it liberty and perfection in action, power over temptations, and fuller aid to perseverance.

†

May 25th: The Ascension of Our Lord

Manner of Hearing Mass At Home: For those who on account of sickness, old age, or for other proper reasons cannot assist at holy Mass, especially on Sundays and Holidays The Ascension of Our Lord Sermons: The Ascension The Ascension: from the Liturgical Year, 1870 and the Litany of Jesus Glorified The Feast of the Ascension:
Questions and Answers Children's Sermon for
the Feast of the Ascension The Resurrection and Ascension of Jesus Christ, as Illustrated by Catholic Artist and Historian, James Tissot, 1899 Glorious Mysteries Saints: the Gift of Miracles Litany of Faith and the Necessity of the Catholic Faith for Salvation Jesus of Nazareth, the Story of His Life: A Catholic Children's Book, 1906 Video: The Resurrection and Ascension of Our Lord Jesus

Novena for the Ascension: May 18th - May 26th Novena to St. Philip Neri:
May 18th - May 26th Novena for the Queenship of Mary: May 23rd - May 31st The Little Office of the Blessed Virgin Mary, from Candlemas, Feb. 2nd 2017 until Advent 2017 The Child's Month of Mary
for Each Day in May Visits to the Altar of Mary
for Each Day in May 30 Days Prayer to the
Blessed Virgin Mary Meditations for the Month of May dedicated to Our Lady

Newly Added
False Confidence of Salvation--
A Must Read The Motives for the Conversion of Sinners Index of Prayers for the Holy Souls in Purgatory

Grant, we beseech Thee, almighty God: that we who believe Thy only-begotten Son, our Redeemer, to have this day ascended into heaven, may ourselves spiritually dwell in heavenly places. Through the same, etc.

V. God is gone up with a shout of joy, alleluia.

R. And the Lord with the sound of the trumpet, alleluia.

Ant. Father, I have manifested thy name to the men whom Thou hast given me: now I pray for them, not for the world, because I come to Thee, alleluia.

(Roman Breviary)

In the forty days which followed His resurrection, our Redeemer laid the foundations of His Church to which He was going to send the Holy Ghost. All the Master's teachings are summed up in the Epistle and Gospel for today. Then He left this earth and the Introit, Collect, Epistle, Alleluia, Gospel, Offertory, Secret, Preface and Communion celebrate His glorious ascension into heaven, where the souls He had freed from Limbo escort Him (Alleluia), and enter in His train into the heavenly kingdom, where they share more fully in His Divinity.

The ascension sets before us the duty of raising our hearts to God. So, in the Collect, we are led to ask that we may dwell with Christ in spirit in the heavenly realms, where we are called one day to dwell in our risen bodies.

During the octave the Credo is said: "I believe in one Lord Jesus Christ, the only-begotten Son of God... Who ascended into heaven... He sitteth at the right hand of the Father" The Gloria speaks in the same sense: "O Lord Jesus Christ, the only-begotten Son... Who sittest at the right hand of the Father, have mercy upon us." In the Proper Preface which is said until Pentecost, we give thanks to God because His Son, the risen Christ, "after His resurrection appeared and showed Himself to all His disciples; and while they beheld Him, was lifted up into heaven". In the same way, during the whole octave, a Proper Communicantes of the feast is said, in which the Church reminds us that she is keeping the day on which the only-begotten Son of God set at the right hand of His glory the substance of our frail human nature, to which He had united Himself in the mystery of the Incarnation.

We are reminded daily in the liturgy at the Offertory Suscipe Sancta Trinitas, and in the Canon Unde et memores, that at our Lord's command the Holy Sacrifice is being otfered in memory of the "blessed passion of the same Christ Thy Son our Lord," and also His resurrection from hell and His glorious ascension into heaven.

The truth is that man is saved only by the mysteries of the passion and resurrection united with that of the ascension. "Through Thy death and burial, through Thy holy resurrection, through Thy admirable ascension, deliver us, O Lord (Litany of the Saints).

Let us offer the divine Sacrifice to God in memory of the glorious ascension of His Son(Suscipe, Unde et memores); while we nourish within our souls an ardent desire for heaven, that "delivered from present dangers," we may "attain to eternal life" (Secret).

†

May 24th: Vigil of the Ascension. Rogation Wednesday. Our Lady Help of Christians

Vigil of the Ascension Rogation Days Mary Help of Christians Newly Added
False Confidence of Salvation--
A Must Read The Motives for the Conversion of Sinners In Defense of Mary
The Mother of God Novena to St. Philip Neri:
May 18th - May 26th Novena for the Ascension: May 18th - May 26th Novena for the Queenship of Mary: May 23rd - May 31st The Little Office of the Blessed Virgin Mary, from Candlemas until Advent The Child's Month of Mary
for Each Day in May Visits to the Altar of Mary
for Each Day in May Meditations for the Month of May dedicated to Our Lady 30 Days Prayer to the
Blessed Virgin Mary Joyful Mysteries Sorrowful Mysteries Glorious Mysteries

On Reforming Our Lives Before Death
by St. Alphonsus Di Liguori

Every one desires to die the death of the saints; but it is scarcely possible for the Christian to make a holy end, who has led a disorderly life until the time of his death; to die united to God, after having always lived at a distance from Him. The saints, in order to secure a happy death, renounced all the riches, the delights, and all the hopes which this world held out to them, and embraced poor and mortified lives. They buried themselves alive in this world, to avoid, when dead, being buried for ever in hell. O God, for how many years past have I deserved to be buried in that place of torments, without hope of pardon, or of being able to love Thee! But Thou hast waited in order to pardon me. Truly, then, am I sorry from the bottom of my heart for having offended Thee, my sovereign good; have pity on me, and do not permit me to offend Thee any more.

God forewarns sinners that they will seek Him in death and will not find Him: You shall seek and shall not find me. They shall not find Him because they will not then seek Him through love, but only through the fear of hell; they will seek God without renouncing their affection for sin; and hence they shall not find Him. No, my God, I will not wait to seek Thee in death, but will seek and desire Thee from this moment. I am sorry for having hitherto given Thee so much displeasure by seeking to gratify my own inclinations. I am sorry for it, I confess that I have done evil. But Thou willest not that the heart that seeks Thee should despair, but rejoice: Let the heart of them rejoice that seek the Lord. Ps. civ. 3. Yes, O Lord, I seek Thee and I love Thee more than myself.

How miserable is the Christian who, before his death, has not spent a good part of his life in bewailing his sins! It is not to be denied that such a man may be converted at his death and obtain salvation; but the mind obscured, the heart hardened, the bad habits formed, the passions predominant, render it morally impossible for him to die happily. An extraordinary grace will be necessary for him; but does God reserve such a grace to bestow it upon one who has continued ungrateful to Him even until the moment of death? O God, to what straits are sinners reduced to escape eternal destruction. No, my God, I will not wait until death to repent of my sins and to love Thee. I am sorry now for having offended Thee; now do I love Thee with my whole heart. Suffer me not any more to turn my back upon thee, rather let me die. O holy mother, Mary, obtain for me perseverance in virtue.

†

May 23rd: Rogation Tuesday

Rogation Days The Greater Litanies of the Saints Prayers of Thanksgiving Daily Rosary: Joyful Mysteries with Meditations Daily Rosary: Sorrowful Mysteries with Meditations Daily Rosary: Glorious Mysteries with Meditations Novena to St. Philip Neri:
May 18th - May 26th Novena for the Ascension: May 18th - May 26th Novena for the Queenship of Mary: May 23rd - May 31st The Little Office of the Blessed Virgin Mary, from Candlemas until Advent The Child's Month of Mary
for Each Day in May Visits to the Altar of Mary
for Each Day in May Meditations for the Month of May dedicated to Our Lady 30 Days Prayer to the
Blessed Virgin Mary

On the Patience of God with Sinners
by St. Alphonsus Di Liguori

The more we have experienced the patient mercies of God, the more we ought to be afraid of continuing to abuse them, lest the time of God's vengeance overtake us. Revenge is mine, and I will repay in due time. Deut. xxxiii. 35. God will put an end to His forbearance towards those who will not cease to abuse it. I give Thee thanks, O Lord, for having patiently borne with me, though I have so often betrayed thee. Make me sensible of the evil which I have done by abusing Thy patience for so long a time; make me sorry for all the offences I have committed against Thee. No, I will never more abuse Thy tender mercy.

Commit this sin; you can afterwards confess it. Such is the artifice with which the devil has drawn many souls into hell. Many Christians, now in hell, have been lost by this delusion. The Lord waiteth that he may have mercy on you. Isa. xxx. 18. God waiteth for the sinner, that the sinner may be converted, and obtain mercy; but when God sees that the time which He allows the sinner for doing penance, is employed only in increasing the number of His offences, then Hhe waits no longer, but punishes him as he deserves. Pardon me, O God, for I desire never more to offend Thee. And why should I delay? that thou mayest condemn me to hell? I fear indeed that now Thou canst no longer have patience with me I have indeed offended Thee too grievously. I am sorry for it, I repent of it. I hope for forgiveness through the merits of that blood which Thou hast shed for me.

The mercies of the Lord that we are not consumed; because His commiserations have not failed. Lam. iii. 22. Thus should he exclaim who finds to his confusion that he has frequently offended God. He should be most grateful to God for not having suffered him to die in his sins, and be most careful not to offend Him again; otherwise the Lord will reproach him, saying: What more could I have done for my vineyard that I have not done? God will say to him: Ungrateful soul! if thou hadst committed the same offences against man, who is viler than the earth, verily he would not have borne with thee. And how great mercies have I exercised towards thee! How many times have I called thee, and enlightened thee, and pardoned thee? The time of punishment is at hand; the time of forgiveness is past. Thus has God spoken to many who are now suffering in hell; where one of their greatest torments is the remembrance of the mercies which they formerly received from God.

Jesus, my Redeemer, and my Judge, I also have deserved to hear the same from Thy mouth; but I hear Thee now again calling me to pardon: Be converted to the Lord thy God. O accursed sin, which has made me lose my God, how much do I abhor and detest thee! I turn my whole self towards thee, my Lord and my God. My sovereign good, I love Thee; and because I love Thee I repent with my whole soul for having, during the time that is past, so much despised Thee. My God, I desire never more to offend Thee: give me Thy love, grant me perseverance. Mary, my refuge, succour and help me.

†

May 22nd, In some places St. Rita of Cascia. Rogation Day

St. Rita, Widow Trials in the Married State Catholic Laws on Marriage and Divorce Sins Against the Marriage Contract Duties of Marriage In Defense of Catholic Marriage Against Divorce Christian Marriage Part 1: The Sacred Bond of Marriage: Happiness with Holiness in Family Life Condemnations of Divorce Index: Links to All Marriage and Family Pages.
Provides answers to all of your questions.

Rogation Days The Greater Litanies of the Saints Prayers of Thanksgiving Daily Rosary: Joyful Mysteries with Meditations Daily Rosary: Sorrowful Mysteries with Meditations Daily Rosary: Glorious Mysteries with Meditations The Little Office of the Blessed Virgin Mary, from Candlemas until Advent 30 Days Prayer to the
Blessed Virgin Mary Eastertide Prayers The Child's Month of Mary
for Each Day in May Visits to the Altar of Mary
for Each Day in May Meditations for the Month of May dedicated to Our Lady

Our Lady of Fatima:
Novena May 13 - 21 Novena to St. Philip Neri:
May 18th - May 26th Novena for the Ascension: May 18th - May 26th

Rogation Days

The great procession ordained by Procleus in Constantinople, in the thirty-sixth year of the reign of Theodosius, in order to implore of heaven deliverance from the earthquake which threatened destruction to the whole city: finally, the processions of rogation introduced by Mamertus, Bishop of Vienna in France, and which were shortly afterwards extended to the whole Church and made annually on the three days preceding the festival of our blessed Lord's Ascension.

O how glorious will be the procession called forth by Christ's words to the just: "Come, ye blessed of my Father, possess the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world!" Matt. xxv. 34. It is not to be wondered at, therefore, that our hearts are filled with sweet and solemn joy when we take our place in the festive train. This is particularly the case in reference to the solemn procession on Corpus Christi.

†

May 21st: Fifth Sunday After Easter

5th Sunday After Easter:
How we should pray Children's Sermon for 5th
Sunday After Easter 5th Sunday After Easter: Epistle and Gospel Manner of Hearing Mass At Home: For those who on account of sickness, old age, or for other proper reasons cannot assist at holy Mass, especially on Sundays and Holidays Spiritual Communion

What we should pray for Prayer: its Conditions and Circumstances How to Practice Mental Prayer How to Obtain Answers
to Our Prayers The Necessity of Prayer for Sinners Ejaculatory Prayers

The Psalter of Jesus Index of Prayers for the Holy Souls in Purgatory Children Prayers and Sermons True Devotion to the Blessed Virgin Mary by St. Louis Marie de Monfort Daily Rosary: Joyful Mysteries with Meditations Daily Rosary: Sorrowful Mysteries with Meditations Daily Rosary: Glorious Mysteries with Meditations The Little Office of the Blessed Virgin Mary, from Candlemas until Advent 30 Days Prayer to the
Blessed Virgin Mary Eastertide Prayers The Child's Month of Mary
for Each Day in May Visits to the Altar of Mary
for Each Day in May Meditations for the Month of May dedicated to Our Lady

Our Lady of Fatima:
Novena May 13 - 21 Novena to St. Philip Neri:
May 18th - May 26th Novena for the Ascension: May 18th - May 26th

O God, from Whom all good things proceed, grant unto Thy suppliants, that by Thy inspiration we may think those things that are right, and under Thy guidance perform them. Through our Lord, etc.

(Roman Breviary)

On Prayer--(John xvi.)
by Alphonso de Andrade

First Point.--Consider the power and efficacy of prayer with God, since Christ has given us His word that the Eternal Father will grant us whatsoever we ask therein. Prayer appeases the wrath of God and opens heaven; it inclines His will, and obtains spiritual and temporal goods, tears and contrition for sin, the grace and friendship of God, and the inheritance of heaven and whatsoever we can desire. Wherefore the Redeemer tells us to pray and solicit, that our joy may be perfect; for prayer fills the soul with joy, and through it we obtain the fulfilment of our desires. Oh, celestial virtue! oh, grace that obtains grace and the inheritance of glory! oh, key that openest the gate of heaven and the treasury of God! Grant me, Lord, this grace wherewith to obtain all graces, and a firm resolution never to fail in prayer for the sake of any earthly interest, but rather to persevere therein all my life, so as to continue therein in the next throughout eternity. Amen.

Second Point.--Ponder those words of the Saviour: "Amen, amen. I say to you, If you ask the Father anything in My name, He will give it to you." Consider the value of the name of Christ, and how powerful and weighty it is with God, on account of the great merits of His Blood. Beg of God by these merits and in His name all that thou needest, for His merits are infinite, and however much thou dost ask for, His merits are greater still.

Third Point.--Consider how Christ tells us to pray; because He will pray to the Father in union with us, and His prayer will accompany ours, assisting and furthering our petitions to God. Having such a Patron and Advocate, be very firmly confident that thou wilt obtain what thou dost ask. Entreat Him always to accompany thee when thou enterest on prayer, and beg Him to keep His word by praying with thee and for thee to the Father. Beseech Him to offer thy prayers, and to supply with His merits what is lacking to thine, and have confidence in His bounty, that if thou dost this with fervour, thou wilt experience His aid and thy prayer will be effectual.

Fourth Point.--Consider how Christ tells us that the man who sought his friend at midnight obtained what he asked for. St. Peter Chrysologus assures us that this was because there is no better time for negotiating with God; first, on account of the silence and quiet of that hour, then because of the secret and obscurity of the night, and again on account of the mortification of breaking sleep and abandoning the repose of the body, which men commonly take at that season, in order to devote it to prayer and communication with God, Who is well pleased with those who praise and bless Him at a time when others forget Him in the sleep of night. Derive hence a resolution to pray at that hour, and to exert thyself in serving and loving God when others forget Him, and of breaking thy sleep and the repose of the body in order to seek that of the soul, which is to be found in prayer and commune with God.

†

May 20th: St. Bernardine of Siena, Confessor.

St. Bernardine of Siena, Confessor Prayers and Devotions to the Holy Name Index of Prayers and
Devotions for the Sick Our Lady of Fatima:
Novena May 13 - 21 Novena to St. Philip Neri:
May 18th - May 26th Novena for the Ascension: May 18th - May 26th 30 Days Prayer to the
Blessed Virgin Mary The Little Office of the Blessed Virgin Mary, from Candlemas until Advent The Child's Month of Mary
for Each Day in May Visits to the Altar of Mary
for Each Day in May Meditations for the Month of May dedicated to Our Lady

The Sacrament of Penance

Sacrament of Penance The Sacrament of Penance, All of Your Questions Answered The Conversion of Sinners True Conversion: One of the best sermons for hardened sinners Penitent's Consolation Examination of Conscience Rite of Confession General Confession Contrition On Contrition and the Purpose of Amendment Contrition: Explanation of Perfect Contrition and the Necessity of Contrition for Forgiveness of Sins The Nature of Sin Mortal Sin Conscience Index of the Ten Commandments Sermon on Keeping the 10 Commandments Time is No More They that Live in Sin The Sinner Seeks God The Sinner at Death The Necessity of Prayer for Sinners

O Lord Jesus, Who didst bestow on the blessed Bernardine Thy Confessor an especial love for Thy Holy Name: mercifully pour into our hearts, by virtue of his merits and intercession, the spirit of Thy love: Who livest etc

(Roman Breviary)

In 1408 St. Vincent Ferrer once suddenly interrupted his sermon to declare that there was among his hearers a young Franciscan who would be one day a greater preacher than himself, and would be set before him in honor by the Church. This unknown friar was Bernardine. Of noble birth, he had spent his youth in works of mercy, and had then entered religion. Owing to a defective utterance, his success as a preacher at first seemed doubtful, but, by the prayers of Our Lady, this obstacle was miraculously removed, and Bernardine began an apostolate which lasted thirty-eight years.

By his burning words and by the power of the Holy Name of Jesus, which he displayed on a tablet at the end of his sermons, he obtained miraculous conversions, and reformed the greater part of Italy. But this success had to be exalted by the cross. The Saint was denounced as a heretic and his devotion as idolatrous. After many trials he lived to see his innocence proved, and a lasting memorial of his work established in a church.

The Feast of the Holy Name commemorates at once his sufferings and his triumph. He died on Ascension Eve, 1444, while his brethren were chanting the antiphon, "Father, I have manifested Thy Name to men." St. Bernardine, when a youth, undertook the charge of a holy old woman, a relation of his, who had been left destitute. She was blind and bedridden, and during her long illness could only utter the Holy Name. The Saint watched over her till she died, and thus learned the devotion of his life.

Reflection--Let us learn from the life of St. Bernardine the power of the Holy Name in life and death.

†

May 19th: St. Peter Celestine, Pope and Confessor and St. Prudentia, Virgin.

St. Peter Celestine, Pope and Confessor Our Lady of Fatima:
Novena May 13 - 21 Novena to St. Philip Neri:
May 18th - May 26th Novena for the Ascension: May 18th - May 26th Our Lady of Fatima:
Novena May 13 - 21 30 Days Prayer to the
Blessed Virgin Mary The Little Office of the Blessed Virgin Mary, from Candlemas until Advent The Child's Month of Mary
for Each Day in May Visits to the Altar of Mary
for Each Day in May Meditations for the Month of May dedicated to Our Lady Eastertide Prayers

O God, Who didst raise up blessed Peter Celestine to the supreme pontificate, yet didst teach him to prefer humility to that dignity, mercifully grant, that, following his example, we may despise all the things of the world, and so deserve to attain to the rewards which thou hast promised to the lowly. Through our Lord etc.

(Roman Breviary)

As a child, Peter had visions of our blessed Lady, and of the angels and saints. They encouraged him in his prayer, and chided him when he fell into any fault. His mother, though only a poor widow, put him to school, feeling sure that he would one day be a Saint. At the age of twenty, he left his home in Apulia to live in a mountain solitude. Here he passed three years, assaulted by the evil spirits and beset with temptations of the flesh, but consoled by angels' visits. After this his seclusion was invaded by disciples, who refused to be sent away; and the rule of life which he gave them formed the foundation of the Celestine Order.

Angels assisted in the church which Peter built; unseen bells rang peals of surpassing sweetness, and heavenly music filled the sanctuary when he offered the Holy Sacrifice. Suddenly he found himself torn from his loved solitude by his election to the Papal throne. Resistance was of no avail. He took the name of Celestine, to remind him of the heaven he was leaving and for which he sighed, and was consecrated at Aquila. After a reign of four months, Peter summoned the cardinals to his presence, and solemnly resigned his trust.

St. Peter built himself a boarded cell in his palace, and there continued his hermit's life; and when, lest his simplicity might be taken advantage of to distract the peace of the Church, he was put under guard, he said, "I desired nothing but a cell, and a cell they have given me." There he enjoyed his former loving intimacy with the saints and angels, and sang the Divine praises almost continually. At length, on Whit-Sunday, he told his guards he should die within the week, and immediately fell ill. He received the last sacraments; and the following Saturday, as he finished the concluding verse of Lauds, "Let every spirit bless the Lord!" he closed his eyes to this world and opened them to the vision of God.

Reflection--"Whose," says the Imitation of Christ, "withdraweth himself from acquaintances and friends, to him will God draw near with His holy angels."

†

May 18th: St. Venantius, Martyr

St. Venantius, Martyr Suffering from the Catechism
of St. John Vianney Our Lady of Fatima:
Novena May 13 - 21 Novena to St. Philip Neri:
May 18th - May 26th Novena for the Ascension: May 18th - May 26th Our Lady of Fatima:
Novena May 13 - 21 30 Days Prayer to the
Blessed Virgin Mary The Little Office of the Blessed Virgin Mary, from Candlemas until Advent The Child's Month of Mary
for Each Day in May Visits to the Altar of Mary
for Each Day in May Meditations for the Month of May dedicated to Our Lady Eastertide Prayers

O God, Who hast made this day holy by the triumph of Thy blessed Martyr Venantius: graciously hear the prayers of Thy people, and grant, that we who venerate his merits may follow the example of his constancy in the faith. Through our Lord etc.

(Roman Breviary)

St. Venantius was born at Camerino in Italy, and at the age of fifteen was seized as a Christian and carried before a judge. As it was found impossible to shake his constancy either by threats or promises, he was condemned to be scourged, but was miraculously saved by an angel. He was then burnt with torches and hung over a low fire that he might be suffocated by the smoke. The judge's secretary, admiring the steadfastness of the Saint, and seeing an angel robed in white, who trampled out the fire and again set free the youthful martyr, proclaimed his faith in Christ, was baptized with his whole family, and shortly after won the martyr's crown himself.

Venantius was then carried before the governor, who, unable to make him renounce his faith, cast him into prison with an apostate, who vainly strove to tempt him. The governor then ordered his teeth and jaws to be broken, and had him thrown into a furnace, from which the angel once more delivered him. The Saint was again led before the judge, who at sight of him fell headlong from his seat and expired, crying, "The God of Venantius is the true God; let us destroy our idols." This circumstance being told to the governor, he ordered Venantius to be thrown to the lions; but these brutes, forgetting their natural ferocity, crouched at the feet of the Saint.

Then, by order of the tyrant, the young martyr was dragged through a heap of brambles and thorns, but again God manifested the glory of His servant; the soldiers suffering from thirst, the Saint knelt on a rock and signed it with a cross, when immediately a jet of clear, cool water spurted up from the spot. This miracle converted many of those who beheld it, whereupon the governor had Venantius and his converts beheaded together in the year 250. The bodies of these martyrs are kept in the church at Camerino which bears the Saint's name.

Reflection--Love of suffering marks the most perfect degree in the love of God. Our Lord Himself was consumed with the desire to suffer, because He burnt with the love of God. We must begin with patience and detachment. At last we shall learn to love the sufferings which conform us to the Passion of our Redeemer.

†

May 17th: St. Paschal Baylon, Confessor

St. Paschal Baylon, Confessor The Necessity of Mortification The Sacrament of the
Holy Eucharist Our Lady of Fatima:
Novena May 13 - 21 30 Days Prayer to the
Blessed Virgin Mary The Little Office of the Blessed Virgin Mary, from Candlemas until Advent The Child's Month of Mary
for Each Day in May Visits to the Altar of Mary
for Each Day in May Meditations for the Month of May dedicated to Our Lady

O God, Who didst adorn Blessed Paschal, Thy Confessor, with a wonderful love for the holy mysteries of Thy Body and Blood, mercifully grant, that we, too, may deserve to receive the same spiritual graces which he received from this deivine banquet. Who livest and reignest, etc. Amen

(Roman Breviary)

From his childhood Saint Paschal seems to have been marked out for the service of God. Amid his daily labors as a shepherd, he found time to instruct and evangelize the rude herdsmen who kept their flocks on the hills of Aragon. At the age of twenty-four he entered the reformed Franciscan Order near the town of Monfort, Spain, where he remained, out of humility, a simple lay brother, occupying himself by preference with the roughest and most servile tasks.

He was distinguished by his ardent devotion and love for the Blessed Sacrament. He would spend hours on his knees before the tabernacle, often being raised from the ground in the fervor of his prayer. And there, from the authentic and eternal Truth, he drew such stores of wisdom that, unlettered as he was, he was considered by all a master in theology and spiritual science.

Shortly after his profession he was sent to Paris on business connected with his Order. The journey was full of perils, owing to the hostility of the Huguenots, who were numerous at the time in the south of France; and on four separate occasions Paschal was in imminent danger of death at their hands. Twice he was taken for a spy; but it was not God's will that His servant should obtain the crown of martyrdom which he so earnestly desired, though he regarded himself as unworthy of it. He returned in safety to his convent, where he would later die in the odor of sanctity in 1592.

Multitudes witnessed the miracles which took place during the three days his body was exposed for veneration. He was canonized in 1690, and in 1897 declared patron of all Eucharistic congresses and confraternities.

†

May 16th: St. Ubaldus (Ubaldo), Bishop and Confessor

St. Ubaldus, Bishop and Confessor and Exorcist A Short Explanation on the Rite of Exorcisms Resisting the Enemies of Our Salvation St. Michael/ Exorcism The Triumph of the Blessed Sacrament or Exorcism of Nicola Aubry, by Fr. Michael Muller To fight against Satan, The Medal or Cross of St. Benedict, by Prosper Gueranger Does Satan Exist? Temptations and the Devils
who Tempt Temptation: as defined by the Council of Trent Temptations: Why we have them Of Resisting Temptation
Thomas A Kempis The Devils Plan to Ruin Souls and the Protection of the Holy Angels

Our Lady of Fatima:
Novena May 13 - 21 30 Days Prayer to the
Blessed Virgin Mary The Little Office of the Blessed Virgin Mary, from Candlemas until Advent Visits to the Altar of Mary
for Each Day in May Meditations for the Month of May dedicated to Our Lady

Be appeased, O Lord, we beseech Thee, and lend us Thy help: and by the intercession of blessed Ubald, Thy Confessor and Bishop, stretch forth the right hand of Thy mercy upon us against the wicked assaults of the devil. Through our Lord etc.

(Roman Breviary)

May 16th: St. John Nepomucen

St. John Nepomucen, Martyr
Defender of the Seal of Confession The Seal of Confession The Sacrament of Penance,
All of Your Questions Answered Preparation for the Sacrament of Penance Contrition and the Purpose of Amendment Catholic Instruction for Children for the Sacrament of Penance, 1897 The Necessity of Prayer for Sinners Blessed are the Clean of Heart The Sixth Commandment: Explained by St. Thomas Aquinas On the Vice of Impurity Moral Teaching on Unchaste Thoughts and Desires and Prayers to Overcome Temptations The Necessity of Self-Examination The Necessity of Avoiding Occasions of Sin Causes of Relapse into Sin The Sinner's Guide
by Ven. Louis of Granada, O.P. Our Lady Refuge of Sinners The Sinner will Seek God at Death On the Number of Sins, by St. Aphonsus Di Liguori Joyful Mysteries Sorrowful Mysteries Glorious Mysteries

St. John was born, in answer to prayer, 1330, of poor parents, at Nepomuc in Bohemia. In gratitude they consecrated him to God; and his holy life as a priest led to his appointment as chaplain to the court of the Emperor Wenceslas, where he converted numbers by his preaching and example. Amongst those who sought his advice was the empress, who suffered much from her husband's unfounded jealousy. St. John taught her to bear her cross with joy; but her piety only incensed the emperor, and he tried to extort her confessions from the Saint. He threw St. John into a dungeon, but gained nothing; then, inviting him to his palace, he promised him riches if he would yield, and threatened death if he refused.

The Saint was silent. He was racked and burnt with torches; but no words, save Jesus and Mary, fell from his lips. At last set free, he spent his time in preaching, and preparing for the death he knew to be at hand. On Ascension Eve, May 16, Wenceslas, after a final and fruitless attempt to move his constancy, ordered him to be cast into the river, and that night the martyr's hands and feet were bound, and he was thrown from the bridge of Prague. As he died, a heavenly light shining on the water discovered the body, which was buried with the honors due to a Saint. A few years later, Wenceslas was deposed by his own subjects, and died an impenitent and miserable death.

In 1618 the Calvinist and Hussite soldiers of the Protestant Elector Frederick tried repeatedly to demolish the shrine of St. John at Prague. Each attempt was miraculously frustrated; and once the persons engaged in the sacrilege, among whom was an Englishman, were killed on the spot. In 1620 the imperial troops recovered the town by a victory which was ascribed to the Saint's intercession, as he was seen on the eve of the battle, radiant with glory, guarding the cathedral. When his shrine was opened, three hundred and thirty years after his decease, the flesh had disappeared, and one member alone remained incorrupt, the tongue; thus still, in silence, giving glory to God.

Reflection--St. John, who by his invincible sacramental silence won his crown, teaches us to prefer torture and death to offending the Creator with our tongue. How many times each day do we forfeit grace and strength by sins of speech!

†

May 15th: St. John Baptist de LaSalle, Confessor

The Story of Saint John Baptist de la Salle, 1921 Religious and Moral Training
of Children Our Lady of Fatima:
Novena May 13 - 21 Eastertide Prayers

Prayers for Catholic Mothers The Christian Mother What is it to be a Mother? The Fruits of Conversion from
the Prayers of Long Suffering Mothers Blessings of Many Children The Child's Month of Mary
for Each Day in May Visits to the Altar of Mary
for Each Day in May Meditations for the Month of May dedicated to Our Lady 30 Days Prayer to the
Blessed Virgin Mary True Devotion to the Blessed Virgin Mary by St. Louis Marie de Monfort

In Defense of Mary
The Mother of God Mother of God: Devotion to the Blessed Virgin Mary Devotions in honor of the Queenship of Mary The Dogma of the Incarnation Rests on the Divine Maternity of the Blessed Virgin Mary Mother of God: Devotion to the Blessed Virgin Mary Immaculate Heart of Mary The Little Office of the Blessed Virgin Mary, from Candlemas until Advent

O God, who didst raise up the holy Confessor John Baptist to promote the Christian education of the poor, and to direct the young in the way of truth, and by his means didst bring together a new family within the Church: mercifully grant, through his intercession and example, that we may burn with zeal for Thy glory in saving souls, and may share his crown in heaven. Through our Lord etc.

(Roman Breviary)

†

May 14th: St. Boniface, Martyr and 4th Sunday After Easter

4th Sunday After Easter, Bishop Ehrler and Fr. Weninger Causes of Relapse into Sin Mortal Sin Sermon on Keeping the 10 Commandments How Catholics lose the Faith by Fr. Michael Muller Children's Sermon for 4th Sunday After Easter Fourth Sunday After Easter:
Epistle and Gospel Spiritual Communion Manner of Hearing Mass At Home: For those who on account of sickness, old age, or for other proper reasons cannot assist at holy Mass, especially on Sundays and Holidays

St. Boniface, Martyr The Sin of Scandal Moral Teaching on Unchaste Thoughts and Desires Prayers for the Preservation of Chastity. An Explanation and Defense of the Virtue of Chastity Impurity a Terrible Evil Holy Purity

Mother's Day Relative to the Blessed Virgin Mary--in some places May Crowning

Prayers for Catholic Mothers The Christian Mother What is it to be a Mother? The Fruits of Conversion from
the Prayers of Long Suffering Mothers Blessings of Many Children The Child's Month of Mary
for Each Day in May Visits to the Altar of Mary
for Each Day in May Meditations for the Month of May dedicated to Our Lady 30 Days Prayer to the
Blessed Virgin Mary True Devotion to the Blessed Virgin Mary by St. Louis Marie de Monfort

In Defense of Mary
The Mother of God Mother of God: Devotion to the Blessed Virgin Mary Devotions in honor of the Queenship of Mary The Dogma of the Incarnation Rests on the Divine Maternity of the Blessed Virgin Mary Mother of God: Devotion to the Blessed Virgin Mary Immaculate Heart of Mary The Little Office of the Blessed Virgin Mary, from Candlemas until Advent

†

May 13th: St. Robert Bellarmine, Bishop, Confessor, and Doctor of the Church

St. Robert Bellarmine The Art of Dying Well by St. Robert Bellarmine Eastertide Prayers The Little Office of the Blessed Virgin Mary, from Candlemas until Advent The Child's Month of Mary
for Each Day in May Visits to the Altar of Mary
for Each Day in May Meditations for the Month of May dedicated to Our Lady 30 Days Prayer to the
Blessed Virgin Mary

O God, who didst endow blessed Robert Thy Bishop and Doctor with wondrous learning and strength to foil the wiles of error and to vindicate the rights of the Apostolic See: grant, through his merits and intercession, that we may grow in the love of truth, and that the hearts of those who have gone astray may return to the unity of Thy Church. Through our Lord etc.

(Roman Breviary)

May 13th, Anniversary of the First Apparition of Our Lady of Fatima

Our Lady of Fatima:
Apparitions, Prayers, Devotions Novena to Our Lady of Fatima:
from May 13th - 21st Fatima: Peace on Earth; A Catholic Russia; Peace of Mind Novena of Reparation to the Immaculate Heart of Mary; Fatima and the Rosary The Sight of Hell, A Book for Children and Young Persons as well as Adults Prayer in Time of War; The Evils of War; Litany in Time of War Immaculate Heart of Mary

The Most Holy Rosary

Feast of the Holy Rosary The Excellence of the Rosary, Rev. M. J. Frings, 1912 Encyclical on the
Recitation of the Rosary Prayers of Our Lady
of the Rosary The History of the Rosary How to Say the Rosary Rosary Novenas Ave Maria Daily Rosary: Joyful Mysteries with Meditations Daily Rosary: Sorrowful Mysteries with Meditations Daily Rosary: Glorious Mysteries with Meditations

†

May 12th: Sts. Nereus, Achilleus, Domitilla the Virgin, and Pancratius, Martyrs.

Sts. Nereus, Achilleus, Domitilla the Virgin, and Pancratius Prayers for the Preservation of Chastity. An Explanation and Defense of the Virtue of Chastity Have Confidence in God Paschal Time The Mystery of Paschal Time Eastertide Prayers The Child's Month of Mary
for Each Day in May Visits to the Altar of Mary
for Each Day in May Meditations for the Month of May dedicated to Our Lady 30 Days Prayer to the
Blessed Virgin Mary

Daily Rosary: Joyful Mysteries with Meditations Daily Rosary: Sorrowful Mysteries with Meditations Daily Rosary: Glorious Mysteries with Meditations The Little Office of the Blessed Virgin Mary, from Candlemas until Advent 30 Days Prayer to the
Blessed Virgin Mary Novena to Our Lady of Fatima: Feast Day May 13th

May the happy festival, O Lord, of Thy Martyrs, Nereus, Achilleus, Domitilla, and Pancratius always defend us from evil: and render us worthy to serve Thee. Through our Lord etc.

(Roman Breviary)

†

May 11th: Ferial Day

Have Confidence in God Paschal Time The Mystery of Paschal Time Eastertide Prayers The Child's Month of Mary
for Each Day in May Visits to the Altar of Mary
for Each Day in May Meditations for the Month of May dedicated to Our Lady 30 Days Prayer to the
Blessed Virgin Mary

Daily Rosary: Joyful Mysteries with Meditations Daily Rosary: Sorrowful Mysteries with Meditations Daily Rosary: Glorious Mysteries with Meditations The Little Office of the Blessed Virgin Mary, from Candlemas until Advent 30 Days Prayer to the
Blessed Virgin Mary Novena to Our Lady of Fatima: Feast Day May 13th

On the Last Apparation of Christ to His Disciples on the Day of His Glorious Ascension--(Mark XVI)

First Point.--Consider how the apostles being unprepared, and whilst they were lying down to rest and eat, Christ appeared to them and placed Himself in their midst, like a vigilant shepherd watching over his flock. Whence thou shouldst draw two lessons: First, of the care thou shouldst bestow on those committed to thee by God, sparing no anxiety or labour for the welfare of those under thy charge, ever bearing in mind the account thou wilt have to give of them to God. Secondly, to be thyself ever on the watch, for thou knowest not at what hour the Lord will come, for, as He Himself says, He will come at the hour we think not, and when least expected, as a thief does, and that therefore we should be always ready, on the watch, and awaiting His coming, lest He find us unprepared and we be deprived of His grace.

Second Point.--Consider how sternly Christ reproved His disciples because they were so slow to believe and to be convinced of His Resurrection, because God reproves and chastises those whom He loves, fashioning them for heaven with the hammer and the fire of reproof. If thou be a superior, learn courageously to admonish thy subjects of their faults, in order that they may progress towards heaven, and not to leave them in their errors through the cowardice of not enlightening and purifying them. If thou be a subject, ponder the patience with which the disciples bore the reproof of their Master, and see what should be thine when reproved by thy superiors for the welfare of thy soul. See what dross of many faults attaches to thee, how displeasing to God they render thee, and how important it is to purify thy soul; implore the Lord to cleanse thee by means of reproof, and when it is administered to thee, accept it with gratitude, as a gift from the hand of the Lord.

Third Point.--Consider how Christ, having reprimanded His disciples, closed the subject, and forthwith made them preachers of His Gospel to the world, commanding them to go and carry His doctrine to the furthest ends thereof. Wherein He teaches us, as good shepherds, to feed as well as to correct, to use gentleness as well as severity, to reward as well as to punish. Learn this lesson, and implore prudence of the Lord in order to know how to govern, and to use both these means towards others, restraining the over-daring with the rigour of the curb, and encouraging the timid with assistance and rewards.

Fourth Point.--Take to thyself those words of Christ, "Go ye into the whole world and preach the gospel to every creature." Consider the ardent desire which consumed Christ for the salvation of the world, and spare no labour for the welfare of thy neighbour. Travel through the world soliciting the conversion of all, and if thou canst not do this in the body, do it in spirit, imploring God with tears to send labourers of great sanctity to convert sinners, and to bestow His Spirit on those who are engaged in His vineyard, in order that they may fulfil His precept and draw the whole world to the knowledge of Him.

†

May 10th: St. Antoninus, Bishop and Confessor and Sts. Gordian & Epimachus, Martyrs. Octave of the Solemnity of St. Joseph

St. Antoninus, Bishop and Confessor The Corporal Works of Mercy Prayers for the Preservation of Chastity. An Explanation and Defense of the Virtue of Chastity The Necessity of Avoiding Occasions of Sin
by St. Alphonsus Liguori Solemnity of St. Joseph Paschal Time The Mystery of Paschal Time Eastertide Prayers The Child's Month of Mary
for Each Day in May Visits to the Altar of Mary
for Each Day in May Meditations for the Month of May dedicated to Our Lady 30 Days Prayer to the
Blessed Virgin Mary

Daily Rosary: Joyful Mysteries with Meditations Daily Rosary: Sorrowful Mysteries with Meditations Daily Rosary: Glorious Mysteries with Meditations The Little Office of the Blessed Virgin Mary, from Candlemas until Advent 30 Days Prayer to the
Blessed Virgin Mary Novena to Our Lady of Fatima: Feast Day May 13th

Grant us, O Lord, to be assisted by the merits of holy Antoninus thy Confessor and Bishop: that, as we acknowledge Thy wonderful power in him, so we may glory in Thy mercy towards oursevles. Through our Lord etc.

V. The Lord loved him, and adorned him, alleluia.

R. He clothed him with a robe of glory, alleluia.

Ant. O Priest, and Bishop, and worker of virtues, good shepherd of the people, pray unto the Lord for us, alleluia.

(Roman Breviary)

Saint Antoninus, or Little Antony, as he was called from his small stature, was born at Florence in 1389. After a childhood of singular holiness, he begged to be admitted very young into the Dominican house at Fiesole; but the Superior, to test his sincerity and perseverance, told him he must first learn by heart the book of the Decretals, or Canon Law, containing several hundred pages. This apparently impossible task was accomplished within twelve months; and Antoninus received the coveted habit in his sixteenth year.

While still young, he filled several important posts of his Order and was consulted on questions of difficulty by the most learned men of his day, being known because of his wonderful prudence, as "the Counselor." He wrote several works on theology and history and served as Papal Theologian at the Council of Florence. In 1446 he was compelled to accept the archbishopric of that city. In this dignity he earned for himself the title of "the Father of the Poor," for all he had was at their disposal. Saint Antoninus never refused an alms which was asked in the name of God. When he had no money, he gave his clothes, shoes, or furniture.

One day, being sent by the Florentines to the Pope, as he approached Rome a beggar came up to him almost naked, and asked him for an alms for Christ's sake. Outdoing Saint Martin, Antoninus gave him his whole cloak. When he entered the city, another one was given him; by whom, he knew not. His household consisted of only six persons; his palace contained no plate or costly furniture, and was often nearly destitute of the necessities of life. His one mule was frequently sold for the relief of the poor, but was ordinarily bought back for him again by some wealthy citizen.

†

May 9th: St. Gregory Nazianzen, Bishop, Confessor, and Doctor of the Church

St. Gregory Nazianzen Prayers and Devotions to the Holy Trinity Part 3 of 3 on the Vice of Lust: The Anger of God Against the Vice of Impurity Temptations and the Devils who Tempt Paschal Time The Mystery of Paschal Time Eastertide Prayers The Child's Month of Mary
for Each Day in May Visits to the Altar of Mary
for Each Day in May Meditations for the Month of May dedicated to Our Lady 30 Days Prayer to the
Blessed Virgin Mary

Daily Rosary: Joyful Mysteries with Meditations Daily Rosary: Sorrowful Mysteries with Meditations Daily Rosary: Glorious Mysteries with Meditations The Little Office of the Blessed Virgin Mary, from Candlemas until Advent 30 Days Prayer to the
Blessed Virgin Mary Novena to Our Lady of Fatima: Feast Day May 13th

O God, Who didst give blessed Gregory to be a minister of eternal salvation to Thy people: grant, we beseech Thee, that we who have had him on earth as Teacher of life, may be worthy to have him for Advocate in heaven. Through our Lord etc.

(Roman Breviary)

Saint Gregory was born in 312 near Caesarea of Cappadocia, of parents who are both honored as Saints, and the infant was immediately consecrated to God. After learning all that he could in his native land, he journeyed to Caesarea in Palestine to study at the famous school founded by Origen, then went to Alexandria in Egypt to rejoin his brother there. After some time he embarked for Athens, the metropolis of the sciences and the humanities. During the voyage, a storm of twenty days' duration nearly caused the loss of the ship and all passengers; their safe arrival in Athens was attributed to Saint Gregory's prayers, and all aboard adopted Christianity.

In Athens he met and became the close friend of Saint Basil, and these noble souls turned away together from the most attractive worldly prospects. For some years they lived in seclusion, self-discipline, and studious labor, knowing only two roads, Gregory wrote, "one to church, the other to school." Only after thirty years of studies and good works in Athens did they leave that city and separate. They would meet again in the year 358, to live in solitude for a time in the Province of Pont.

Saint Gregory was raised to the priesthood almost by force, preaching his first sermon, after a ten-weeks' retreat, on the dangers and responsibilities of the priesthood. In 372, when he was sixty years old, he was consecrated a bishop by his dear friend Saint Basil, who had become Archbishop of Caesarea in Cappadocia. All their lives they would correspond; many of Saint Gregory's noble and eloquent letters to Saint Basil can still be read among the 212 pieces of his correspondence which are still conserved.

Saint Gregory's rare gifts and conciliatory disposition had become well known. In the year 379, when he was sixty-seven years old, he was chosen to be Patriarch of Constantinople. That city was distracted and laid waste in those times by Arian and other heretics. After a reception which was at best lukewarm, the new Patriarch labored there successfully, from his base in a small church named the Anastasia (Resurrection), where he gave instructions and saw the number of his listeners increase daily.
The Arians were so irritated at the decay of their heresy that they pursued the Saint with outrage, calumny and violence, and at length resolved to take his life. For this purpose they chose an intrepid youth who was willing to undertake the sacrilegious commission. But God did not allow him to carry it out; he was touched with remorse and cast himself at the Saint's feet, avowing his sinful intent. Saint Gregory forgave him at once, treated him with all kindness and received him among his friends, to the wonder and edification of the whole city and to the confusion of the heretics, whose crime had served only as a mirror to the virtue of the Saint.

Saint Jerome states that he himself learned at the feet of this master, who was his catechist in Holy Scripture. But Saint Gregory's humility, his austerities, the humble appearance of his aging and worn person, and above all his very success in Constantinople, did not cease to draw down upon him the hatred of every enemy of the Faith. He was persecuted by the magistrates, stoned by the rabble, and thwarted and deserted even by his brother bishops. During the second General Council, hoping to restore peace to his tormented city, the eloquent bishop, whom the Church calls Saint Gregory the Theologian, resigned his see and retired to his native town, where he died in the year 390.

†

May 8th: Double Major Feast of the Apparition of Saint Michael the Archangel

Apparition of St. Michael Dedication of St. Michael Chaplet and Devotions to St. Michael the Archangel Novena to St. Michael the Archangel, April 30th - May 8th

Related Links
St. Michael/ Exorcism Resisting the Enemies of Our Salvation The Spiritual Combat
by Fr. Scupoli, 1865

The Three Archangels and the Guardian Angels in Art, 1899 The Angels in the Liturgy Good and Bad Angels Litany of the Holy Angels Part 5: The Devils Plan to Ruin Souls and the Protection of the Holy Angels Our Lady Queen of Angels

The Child's Month of Mary
for Each Day in May Visits to the Altar of Mary
for Each Day in May Meditations for the Month of May Eastertide Prayers Daily Rosary: Joyful Mysteries with Meditations Daily Rosary: Sorrowful Mysteries with Meditations Daily Rosary: Glorious Mysteries with Meditations The Little Office of the Blessed Virgin Mary, from Candlemas until Advent 30 Days Prayer to the
Blessed Virgin Mary Novena to Our Lady of Fatima: Feast Day May 13th

O God, who ordained in wondrous order, the offices of Angels and men, grant in Thy mercy, that those who stand forever before Thee in heaven to do Thy will, may also guard our lives upon earth. Through our Lord etc.

(Roman Breviary)

The Apparition of St. Michael the Archangel

The Easter feasts are those of angelical spirits, for the Resurrection "gives joy also to the angels," says St. Gregory, "because in opening heaven to us again, it makes up for the losses which their ranks had sustained." The feast of the Apparition of St. Michael, the chief of the celestial host, shows forth, in this Paschaltide, all the grandeuer of the Saviour's triumph.

Saint Michael hiself comes to us to defend us in battle (Alleluia). He came down from heaven (ibid) and appeared in Italy towards 525 under the Pontificate of Gelasius I, in Apulia, on the summit of Monte Gargano, near the Adriatic and the ancient Sipontum. He requested that a sanctuary should be erected to him where God should be worshipped, in memory of himself and all the angels, and the this place became celebrated on account of numerous miracles.

It is evident from Holy Scripture that God is pleased to make frequent use of the ministry of the heavenly spirits in the dispensations of His providence in this world. The Angels are all pure spirits; by a property of their nature they are immortal, as is every spirit. They have the power of moving or conveying themselves at will from place to place, and such is their activity that it is not easy for us to conceive of it. Among the holy Archangels, Saints Michael, Gabriel and Raphael are particularly distinguished in the Scriptures. Saint Michael, whose name means Who is like unto God?, is the prince of the faithful Angels who opposed Lucifer and his followers in their revolt against God. Since the devil is the sworn enemy of God's holy Church, Saint Michael is given to it by God as its special protector against the demon's assaults and stratagems.

Various apparitions of this powerful Angel have proved the protection of Saint Michael over the Church. We may mention his apparition in Rome, where Saint Gregory the Great saw him in the air sheathing his sword, to signal the cessation of a pestilence and the appeasement of God's wrath. Another apparition to Saint Ausbert, bishop of Avranches in France, led to the construction of Mont-Saint-Michel in the sea, a famous pilgrimage site. May 8th, however, is destined to recall another no less marvelous apparition, occurring near Monte Gargano in the Kingdom of Naples.

In the year 492 a man named Gargan was pasturing his large herds in the countryside. One day a bull fled to the mountain, where at first it could not be found. When its refuge in a cave was discovered, an arrow was shot into the cave, but the arrow returned to wound the one who had sent it. Faced with so mysterious an occurrence, the persons concerned decided to consult the bishop of the region. He ordered three days of fasting and prayers. After three days, the Archangel Saint Michael appeared to the bishop and declared that the cavern where the bull had taken refuge was under his protection, and that God wanted it to be consecrated under his name and in honor of all the Holy Angels.

Accompanied by his clergy and people, the pontiff went to that cavern, which he found already disposed in the form of a church. The divine mysteries were celebrated there, and there arose in this same place a magnificent temple where the divine Power has wrought great miracles. To thank God's adorable goodness for the protection of the holy Archangel, the effect of His merciful Providence, this feast day was instituted by the Church in his honor.

It is said of this special guardian and protector of the Church that, during the final persecution of Antichrist, he will powerfully defend it: "At that time shall Michael rise up, the great prince who protects the children of thy people." (Dan. 12:1) Compare this text with Chapter 10 of the Apocalypse of Saint John.

†

May 7th: St. Stanislaus, Bishop and Martyr and 3rd Sunday After Easter

St. Stanislaus, Bishop and Martyr 3rd Sunday After Easter Third Sunday After Easter:
Epistle and Gospel Children's Sermon for 3rd Sunday After Easter The End of Man The Providence of God and why He permits evil Good and Evil Explained Spiritual Communion Manner of Hearing Mass At Home: For those who on account of sickness, old age, or for other proper reasons cannot assist at holy Mass, especially on Sundays and Holidays

The Child's Month of Mary
for Each Day in May Visits to the Altar of Mary
for Each Day in May Meditations for the Month of May Eastertide Prayers Daily Rosary: Joyful Mysteries with Meditations Daily Rosary: Sorrowful Mysteries with Meditations Daily Rosary: Glorious Mysteries with Meditations The Little Office of the Blessed Virgin Mary, from Candlemas until Advent 30 Days Prayer to the
Blessed Virgin Mary Novena to St. Michael the Archangel, April 30th - May 8th Novena to Our Lady of Fatima: Feast Day May 13th

O God, for whose honor the glorious Bishop Stanislaus was slain by the swords of the wicked: grant, we beseech thee, that all who implore his protection may obtain the wholesome fulfilment of their prayers. Through our Lord etc.

(Roman Breviary)

Saint Stanislaus was born in answer to prayer, when his parents were advanced in age. Out of gratitude they educated him for the Church. When his parents died, he sold their vast properties and gave the price to the poor. He was ordained, and being a holy priest, soon afterwards became a Canon of the Cracow cathedral.

It was necessary to have recourse to the Pope to have him accept the see of Cracow when it became vacant. But the bishop of Cracow's virtues increased with his dignity and obligations; Saint Stanislaus donned a hair shirt, which he wore until he died. He had a list drawn up of every poor person of the city, and gave orders to his servants never to refuse anything to anyone.

Boleslaus II was at that time King of Poland; he was a prince of good disposition, but spoilt by a long series of victories and successes. After many acts of lust and cruelty, he outraged the whole kingdom by carrying off the wife of one of his nobles. Against this public scandal the chaste and gentle bishop alone raised his voice. Having commended the matter to God, he went to the palace and openly rebuked the king for his crime against God and his subjects, and threatened to excommunicate him if he persisted in his sin. Boleslaus, with the intention of irrevocably ruining the bishop's good reputation, suborned the nephews of a man named Paul who had recently died, to swear that their uncle had never been paid for land which the bishop had bought for the Church. Saint Stanislaus stood fearlessly before the king's tribunal, though all his frightened witnesses forsook him, and guaranteed to bring the dead man to witness in his favor within three days.

On the third day, after many prayers and tears, he raised the dead man to life and led him in his grave-clothes before the king, where Paul testified that the bishop had reimbursed him fully for the terrain he had sold. He was then taken back to the grave, where he lay down and again relapsed into his former state, before a large number of witnesses.

Boleslaus for a while made a show of a better life. Soon, however, he returned to the most scandalous excesses, and the bishop, finding all remonstrance useless, pronounced the sentence of excommunication. In defiance of the censure, on May 8, 1079, the king went to a chapel where Saint Stanislaus was saying Mass and commanded three groups of soldiers in succession to slay him at the altar. Each in turn came out, saying he had been alarmed by a light from heaven. At this the king himself rushed in and slew with his own hand the Saint at the altar during the Holy Sacrifice.

The Pope placed the kingdom of Poland under interdict, excommunicated the king and declared his royalty null and void. Boleslaus repented, took refuge in another country for a time, then set out dressed as a pilgrim for Rome. On the way he knocked on a monastery door to ask for an alms, then decided to enter there anonymously, and was received. He spent seven years there as a Benedictine lay brother, rendering every humble service to the monks, patiently bearing rude treatment. Only on his deathbed did he identify himself, taking out his royal ring which he had concealed until then. He had spent hours praying before a statue of Our Lady in the chapel, by which we may conclude that the Mother of God had obtained for him the grace of conversion and a happy death. His body remains in the church of the same monastery of Ossiach.

†

May 6th: St. John, Apostle and Evangelist (Before the Latin Gate)

First Saturday Devotions St. John before the Latin Gate St. John, Apostle and Evangelist

Eastertide Prayers The Little Office of the Blessed Virgin Mary, from Candlemas until Advent The Child's Month of Mary
for Each Day in May Visits to the Altar of Mary
for Each Day in May 30 Days Prayer to the
Blessed Virgin Mary Novena to St. Michael the Archangel, April 30th - May 8th

O God, Who seest that evils harrass us on every side: grant, we beseech Thee, that the glorious intercession of blessed John Thy Apostle and Evangelist may always protect us. Through our Lord etc.

(Roman Breviary)

I n the year 95, Saint John the Evangelist, the only surviving Apostle, who was governing all the churches of Asia Minor (present-day Turkey), was apprehended at Ephesus and sent in chains to Rome. The Emperor Domitian did not relent at the sight of the venerable old man, but condemned him to be cast into a cauldron of boiling oil. The martyr doubtless heard, with great joy, this barbarous sentence; the most cruel torments seemed to him light and agreeable because he hoped they would unite him forever to his divine Master and Saviour. But God accepted his will and crowned his desire; He conferred on him the honor and merit of martyrdom while suspending the operation of the fire, just as He had formerly preserved the three children from injury in the Babylonian furnace. The seething oil was changed for him into an invigorating bath, and the Saint came out more refreshed than when he had entered the cauldron.

T he glorious triumph of Saint John happened just beyond the gate of Rome called the Latina. A church which ever since has borne this title was consecrated there, in memory of the miracle. Domitian saw this miracle without deriving the least advantage from it, remaining hardened in his iniquity. Nonetheless, he contented himself afterwards with banishing the holy Apostle to the little island of Patmos. Saint John returned to Ephesus during the mild reign of Nerva (96-98), who during his short imperial government lasting one year and four months, merely labored to restore the faded luster of the Roman Empire.

†

May 5th: St. Pius V, Pope and Confessor and First Friday

First Friday Devotions The The Life of St. Pius V. St. Pius V., Pope and Confessor The Victory of Lepanto Papal Bull: Quo Primum, the Tridentine Mass for all Times Why the Mass is in Latin

Eastertide Prayers The Little Office of the Blessed Virgin Mary, from Candlemas until Advent The Child's Month of Mary
for Each Day in May Visits to the Altar of Mary
for Each Day in May 30 Days Prayer to the
Blessed Virgin Mary Novena to St. Michael the Archangel, April 30th - May 8th

O God, Who, in order to crush the enemies of Thy Church and to restore divine worship, didst deign to elect blessed Pius to the supreme Pontificate: grant us to be defended by his patronage, and so to cleave unto Thy service, that overcoming all the snares of the enemy, we may rejoice with perpetual peace. Through our Lord etc.

(Roman Breviary)

Michael Ghislieri, a Dominican friar from his fifteenth year, a teacher of religion at twenty, as a simple religious, as inquisitor, bishop, and cardinal, was famous both for the spotless purity of his own life and for his intrepid defense of the Church's faith and discipline. Surrounded in his time by great men and great Saints, in apostolic virtue he was surpassed by none.

As Pope, his first concern was to reform the Roman court and the capital city by the strict example of his own household and the punishment of offenders. He next endeavored to obtain from the Catholic powers recognition of the decrees of the Council of Trent, two of which he strictly enforced: the obligatory residence of bishops in their sees, and the establishment of diocesan seminaries. He revised the Missal and Breviary, and reformed ecclesiastical music.

He was not less active in protecting the Church outside Italy. We see him at the same time supporting the Catholic King of France against the Huguenot rebels, and encouraging Mary, Queen of Scots in the bitterness of her captivity. It is he who excommunicated her rival, the usurper Elizabeth, when the best blood of England flowed upon the scaffold and the measure of her crimes was full. The intrepidity of this Vicar of Christ found enemies. The holy Pope was accustomed to kiss the feet of the crucifix on leaving or entering his room. One day the feet moved away from his lips. Sorrow filled his heart, and he made acts of contrition, fearing that he must have committed some secret offense, yet he still could not kiss the feet. It was afterwards discovered that they had been poisoned by an enemy.

It was in the Lepanto victory that the Saint's power was most plainly manifest. There, in October of 1571, by the holy league which he had formed but still more by the prayers of the aging Pontiff to the great Mother of God, the defeat of the advancing Ottoman forces was obtained and Christendom was saved from the Turk. Six months later Saint Pius V died, having reigned only six years.

†

May 4th: The Finding of the Holy Cross

Finding of the Holy Cross Litany of the Holy Cross Stations of the Cross
by St. Alphonsus Liguori The Short Method of the
Stations of the Cross St. Leonard of Port Maurice and the Stations of the Cross The Holy Ways of the Cross
by Henri Boudon, 1875 St. Helena Eastertide Prayers The Little Office of the Blessed Virgin Mary, from Candlemas until Advent The Child's Month of Mary
for Each Day in May Visits to the Altar of Mary
for Each Day in May 30 Days Prayer to the
Blessed Virgin Mary Novena to St. Michael the Archangel, April 30th - May 8th

O God Who by the glorious Finding of the Cross of salvation didst renew the wonders of Thy Passion: grant, we beseech Thee, that through the ransom brought us by this tree of life we may obtain the privilege of eternal life. Who livest etc.

(Roman Breviary)

When God restored peace to His Church by exalting Constantine the Great to the imperial throne, that pious prince, who had triumphed over his enemies by the miraculous power of the Cross of Christ, was very desirous of expressing his veneration for the holy places which had been honored and sanctified by the presence and sufferings of our blessed Redeemer on earth. He accordingly resolved to build a magnificent church in the city of Jerusalem.

Saint Helen, the Emperor's mother, desiring to visit the holy places there, made a journey into Palestine in 326, though she was at that time near eighty years of age. On her arrival at Jerusalem she was inspired with a great desire to find the identical cross on which Christ had suffered for our sins, in order to build the proposed church on the site of Calvary. But there was no mark or tradition, even among the Christians, to show where it might lie. Saint Helen consulted everyone in Jerusalem and the surrounding areas, whom she thought likely to assist her in discovering the cross. She was credibly informed that, if she could find the holy sepulchre, she would also find the instruments of the punishment, since it was the custom among the Jews to dig a pit near the place where the body of a criminal was buried, and to throw into it whatever had contributed to his execution.

The Roman pagans who were dominated by an aversion to Christianity had done what they could to conceal the place where our Saviour was buried by heaping on it a great quantity of stone and rubbish, and building there a temple to Venus. They had also erected a statue of Jupiter in the place where Our Lord rose from the dead. The pious Empress therefore ordered the profane buildings to be pulled down, the statue broken in pieces, and the rubbish removed. And then, upon digging to a great depth, the holy sepulchre was uncovered.

Near it were found three crosses and the nails which had pierced Our Saviour's body, with the title which had been fixed to His cross. By this discovery they knew that one of those three crosses was the one they sought, and that the others belonged to the two criminals between whom Our Saviour had been crucified. But because the title was found separate from the cross, it was difficult to distinguish which of the three crosses was the one on which our Redeemer consummated His sacrifice for the salvation of the world. In this perplexity the holy Bishop of Jerusalem Macarius, knowing that one of the principal ladies of the city lay ill and at the point of death, suggested to the Empress to have the three crosses carried to the sick person, not doubting that God would reveal which one was the cross they sought. Saint Macarius prayed that God would have regard to their faith, and then he applied the crosses, one after another, to the patient. She was immediately and perfectly cured by the touch of the True Cross, after the others had been tried without effect.

Saint Helen, full of joy at having found the treasure which she had so earnestly sought and so highly esteemed, built a church on the site and placed the cross there with great veneration, after providing for it an extraordinarily rich silver reliquary. She afterwards carried part of it to her son Constantine at Constantinople, who received it with great veneration; and another part she took to Rome, to be placed in the church which she built there, called Church of the Holy Cross of Jerusalem, where it remains to this day.

The title was sent by Saint Helen to that church in Rome, and placed on the top of an arch, where it was found in a case of lead in 1492. The inscription in Hebrew, Greek, and Latin is in red letters, and the wood was whitened. So it was in 1492; but these colors have since faded, and the words Jesus and Judaeorum are eaten away. The board is nine inches long, but is considered to have measured about twelve originally.

The reliquary of Jerusalem was committed to the care of Saint Macarius and kept with singular care and respect in the magnificent church which Saint Helen and her son built there. Saint Paulinus relates that, though chips were almost daily cut off from it and given to devout persons, yet the sacred wood suffered thereby no diminution. It is affirmed by Saint Cyril of Jerusalem, twenty-five years after the discovery, that pieces of the cross were spread all over the earth; he compares this wonder to the miraculous feeding of five thousand men, as recorded in the Gospel. The discovery of the cross would have happened in the spring, after navigation began on the Mediterranean Sea, for Saint Helen went the same year to Constantinople and from there to Rome, where she died in the arms of her son on the 18th of August of the same year, 326.

May 4th: St. Monica, Widow

The Mother of St. Augustine St. Monica, Widow Triduum of St. Monica:
May 1st - May 3rd A Mother's Prayer for the Conversion of her child What is a mixed Marriage St. Augustine I. St. Augustine II. Impurity a Terrible Evil The Conversion of Sinners Eastertide Prayers The Little Office of the Blessed Virgin Mary, from Candlemas until Advent Spiritual Communion The Child's Month of Mary
for Each Day in May Visits to the Altar of Mary
for Each Day in May 30 Days Prayer to the
Blessed Virgin Mary

O God, the comforter of them that mourn, and the slavation of such as hope in Thee, Who didst show mercy to the pious tears of the blessed Monica in the conversion of her son Augustine: grant us, through their united intercession, grace to deplore our sins, and to find pardon and favor with Thee. Through our Lord etc.

(Roman Breviary)

Saint Monica, the mother of Saint Augustine, was born in 332 of a Christian family of the ancient city of Tagasta in northern Africa. After a girlhood of singular innocence and piety, she was given in marriage to Patricius, a pagan. She at once devoted herself to his conversion, praying for him always and winning his reverence and love by the holiness of her life and her affectionate forbearance. She was rewarded by seeing him baptized a year before his death.

When her son Augustine went astray in faith and habits, her prayers and tears were incessant. She once begged a learned bishop that he would talk to her son, in order to bring him to a better disposition, but he declined, despairing of success with a young man at once so gifted and so headstrong. At the sight of her prayers and tears, he nonetheless bade her be of good courage, for it could not happen that the child of those tears should perish.

Augustine, by going to Italy, was able for a time to free himself from his mother's importunities, but he could not escape from her prayers, which encompassed him like the providence of God. She followed him to Italy; and there, by his marvelous conversion, her sorrow was turned into joy.

At Ostia, shortly before they were to re-embark for Africa, Augustine and his mother sat at a window conversing on the life of the blessed. She turned to him and said, "My son, there is nothing now I care for in this life. What I shall now do, or why I remain on this earth, I know not. The one reason I had for wishing to linger in this life a little longer was that I might see you a Catholic Christian before I died. This grace God has granted me superabundantly, seeing you reject earthly happiness to become His servant." A few days afterwards she had an attack of fever and died at the age of fifty-six, in the year 388.

†

May 3th:
Solemnity of St. Joseph

Solemnity of St. Joseph Novena for the Solemnity of St. Joseph, April 25th - May 3rd Thirty Days Prayers to St. Joseph with Additional Devotions The Life of the Blessed Virgin Mary, St. Joseph, St. Joachim
and St. Anne, 1859 The Patronage of St. Joseph St. Joseph, Spouse of the Blessed Virgin Mary, Confessor, and Patron of the Universal Church St. Joseph Additional Prayers A Novena of Meditations in Honor of St. Joseph St. Joseph Husband of Mary and Intecessor of the Universal Church The Espousal or Marriage of the Blessed Virgin Mary to St. Joseph Index of Prayers and
Devotions for the Dying; St. Jospeh Patron of a Happy Death The Flight into Egypt Sermons on St. Joseph Index of Prayers and
Devotions for the Dying The Flight into Egypt Joseph Dearest Video

Other Links in Honor of St. Joseph

Prayers and Devotions to the Holy Family The Christian Father Instructions for the
Catholic Family The Christian Family

The Child's Month of Mary
for Each Day in May Visits to the Altar of Mary
for Each Day in May True Devotion to the Blessed Virgin Mary by St. Louis Marie de Monfort Eastertide Prayers The Little Office of the Blessed Virgin Mary, from Candlemas until Advent 30 Days Prayer to the
Blessed Virgin Mary

Triduum of St. Monica:
May 1st - May 3rd Novena to St. Michael the Archangel, April 30th - May 8th

Holy Rosary: Joyful Mysteries Holy Rosary: Sorrowful Mysteries Holy Rosary: Glorious Mysteries The Little Office of the Blessed Virgin Mary, from Candlemas until Advent

O God, Who in Thy unspeakable providence wast pleased to choose blessed Joseph for Thy most holy Mother's spouse: grant, we beseech Thee, that we may become worthy to have him for our intercessor in heaven whom we venerate as our protector upon earth. Who livest etc.

(Roman Breviary)

St. Joseph was by birth of the royal family of David, but was living in humble obscurity as a carpenter when God raised him to the highest sanctity, and fitted him to be the spouse of His Virgin Mother, and foster-father and guardian of the Incarnate Word. Joseph, says the Holy Scripture, was a just man; he was innocent and pure, as became the husband of Mary; he was gentle and tender, as one worthy to be named the father of Jesus; he was prudent and a lover of silence, as became the master of the holy house; above all, he was faithful and obedient to divine calls. His conversation was with angels rather than with men. When he learned that Mary bore within her womb the Lord of heaven, he feared to take her as his wife; but an angel bade him fear not, and all doubts vanished. When Herod sought the life of the divine Infant, an angel told Joseph in a dream to fly with the Child and His Mother into Egypt. Joseph at once arose and obeyed. This sudden and unexpected flight must have exposed Joseph to many inconveniences and sufferings in so long a journey with a little babe and a tender virgin, the greater part of the way being through deserts and among strangers; yet he alleges no excuses, nor inquires at what time they were to return.

St. Chrysostom observes that God treats thus all His servants, sending them frequent trials to clear their hearts from the rust of self-love, but intermixing seasons of consolation. "Joseph," says he, "is anxious on seeing the Virgin with child; an angel removes that fear. He rejoices at the Child's birth, but a great fear succeeds: the furious king seeks to destroy the Child, and the whole city is in an uproar to take away His life. This is followed by another joy, the adoration of the Magi; a new sorrow then arises: he is ordered to fly into a foreign unknown country, without help or acquaintance." It is the opinion of the Fathers that upon their entering Egypt, at the presence of the child Jesus, all the oracles of that superstitious country were struck dumb, and the statues of their gods trembled and in many places fell to the ground. The Fathers also attribute to this holy visit the spiritual benediction poured on that country, which made it for many ages most fruitful in Saints.

After the death of King Herod, of which St. Joseph was informed in another vision, God ordered him to return with the Child and His Mother into the land of Israel, which our Saint readily obeyed. But when he arrived in Judea, hearing that Archelaus had succeeded Herod in that part of the country, and apprehensive that he might be infected with his father's vices, he feared on that account to settle there, as he would otherwise probably have done for the education of the Child; and therefore, being directed by God in another vision, he retired into the dominions of Herod Antipas, in Galilee, to his former habitation in Nazareth. St. Joseph, being a strict observer of the Mosaic law, in conformity to its direction annually repaired to Jerusalem to celebrate the Passover. Our Saviour, now in the twelfth year of His age, accompanied His parents thither. Having performed the usual ceremonies of the feast, they were returning with many of their neighbors and acquaintances towards Galilee; and never doubting but that Jesus was with some of the company, they travelled on for a whole day's journey before they discovered that He was not with them. But when night came on and they could hear no tidings of Him among their kindred and acquaintance, they, in the deepest affliction, returned with the utmost speed to Jerusalem.

After an anxious search of three days they found Him in the Temple, discoursing with the learned doctors of the law, and asking them such questions as raised the admiration of all that heard Him, and made them astonished at the ripeness of His understanding; nor were His parents less surprises on this occasion. When His Mother told Him with what grief and earnestness they had sought Him, and asked, "Son, why hast Thou thus dealt with us? behold Thy Father and I sought Thee in great affliction of mind," she received for answer, "How is it that you sought Me? did you not know that I must be about My Father's business?" But though thus staying in the Temple unknown to His parents, in all other things He was obedient to them, returning with them to Nazareth, and there living in all dutiful subjection to them. As no further mention is made of St. Joseph, he must have died before the marriage of Cana and the beginning of our divine Saviour's ministry. We cannot doubt that he had the happiness of Jesus and Mary attending at his death, praying by him, assisting and comforting him in his last moments; whence he is particularly invoked for the great grace of a happy death and the spiritual presence of Jesus in that hour.

Reflection--St. Joseph, the shadow of the Eternal Father upon earth, the protector of Jesus in His home at Nazareth, and a lover of all children for the sake of the Holy Child, should be the chosen guardian and pattern of every true Christian family.

†

May 2nd: St. Athanasius, Bishop, Confessor and Doctor of the Church

The Creed of St. Athanasius, Prayers and Letter to the Faithful
May 1st - May 10th Novena to St. Athanasius, April 24th - May 2nd The Life of St. Antony
by St. Athanasius What Cannot and What Can Be Reformed in the Church. What Every Christian Must Believe and Do to be Saved. Litany of Faith and the Necessity of the Catholic Faith for Salvation Are we bound to profess our Catholic Faith Openly? How Catholics lose the Faith by Fr. Michael Muller Abjuration of Heresy and Profession of Faith of the Council of Trent, Pius IV., 1565 The Child's Month of Mary
for Each Day in May Visits to the Altar of Mary
for Each Day in May True Devotion to the Blessed Virgin Mary by St. Louis Marie de Monfort Eastertide Prayers The Little Office of the Blessed Virgin Mary, from Candlemas until Advent 30 Days Prayer to the
Blessed Virgin Mary

Triduum of St. Monica:
May 1st - May 3rd Novena for the Solemnity of St. Joseph, April 25th - May 3rd Novena to St. Michael the Archangel, April 30th - May 8th

Holy Rosary: Joyful Mysteries Holy Rosary: Sorrowful Mysteries Holy Rosary: Glorious Mysteries The Little Office of the Blessed Virgin Mary, from Candlemas until Advent

Graciously hear, O Lord, we beseech Thee, the prayers which we present to Thee on the festival of blessed Athanasius, Thy Confessor and Bishop: and through the merits and intercession of him who was found worthy to become Thy servant, loose us from all sin. Through our Lord etc.

(Roman Breviary)

Saint Athanasius was born in Alexandria, Egypt, towards the end of the third century, and from his youth was pious, learned, and deeply versed in the sacred writings. He left the paternal home to be raised by the bishop of Alexandria like a new Samuel in the Lord's temple, as befitted one whom God had chosen to be the champion and defender of His Church against the Arian heresy, which denied the Divinity of Christ.

While still a deacon, he was chosen by Saint Alexander, his bishop, to go with him to the Council of Nicea, A.D. 325. There he attracted the attention of all the prelates by the learning and ability with which he defended the Faith. Five months later, as Saint Alexander was dying, he recommended Athanasius for his successor as Patriarch of Alexandria, and in that office for forty-six years the new Patriarch bore the whole brunt of the Arian assault, often virtually alone and undefended.

When the invincible Athanasius refused to restore Arius to Catholic communion, he was exiled to Treves in France, and the Emperor ordered the Catholic Patriarch of Constantinople to receive the heresiarch. The end of that man of error is very instructive. He took an oath that he had always believed as the Church believes, though he taught that there was a time when the Word of God WAS NOT. Thereupon the Catholic Patriarch of Constantinople, with Saint James of Nisibe, who was in Constantinople at that time, Saint Athanasius in France and the Catholics everywhere, had recourse to fasting and prayer, that God would avert from the Church the frightful sacrilege. The day came for the solemn entrance of Arius into the great church of Saint Sophia. The heresiarch and his party set out, elated, in triumph. But before he reached the church, death smote him in an exemplary, swift and terrible way, and the dreaded sacrilege was averted.

Saint Athanasius stood unmoved against four Roman emperors, was banished five times, was the butt of every insult, calumny and wrong the Arians could devise, and lived in constant peril of death. Though strong as diamond in defense of the Faith, he was meek and humble, pleasant and winning in conversation, beloved by his flock, unwearied in labors, prayer and mortifications, eloquent in speech, and unsurpassed in zeal for souls. From his places of exile he wrote many great works for the instruction and strengthening of his flock, writings rich in thought and learning, clear, keen and stately in expression. He is honored as one of the greatest of the Doctors of the Church.

His admirers told the story of his response to a search party pursuing him downstream, as he retreated by boat. Knowing of their approach, he ordered the captain to change direction and return. When he crossed the search party on the river, they hailed him and asked whether he had seen the bishop of Alexandria pass by. He replied, "Continue; he is not far from here." Restored to his see by the emperor Valens for fear of a popular uprising, the stormy life of the Saint closed in peace on May 2nd of the year 373.

†

May 1st: Sts. Philip and James, Apostles

St. Philip

St. James the Lesser

Sts. Philip and James The Lives of the 12 Apostles and St. Paul: The Apostles Creed The Labor of the Apostles:
Their Teaching of the Nations The Child's Month of Mary
for Each Day in May Visits to the Altar of Mary
for Each Day in May Triduum of St. Monica:
May 1st - May 3rd Novena to St. Athanasius, April 24th - May 2nd Novena for the Solemnity of St. Joseph, April 25th - May 3rd Novena to St. Michael the Archangel, April 30th - May 8th

Holy Rosary: Joyful Mysteries Holy Rosary: Sorrowful Mysteries Holy Rosary: Glorious Mysteries The Little Office of the Blessed Virgin Mary, from Candlemas until Advent

O God, Who dost gladden us by the yearly festival of Philip and James Thy Apostles: grant, we beseech Thee, that as we rejoice in their merits, so we may be taught by their example. Through our Lord etc.

(Roman Breviary)

Philip was one of the first chosen disciples of Christ. On the way from Judea to Galilee Our Lord found Philip, and said, "Follow Me" Philip straightway obeyed; and then in his zeal and charity sought to win Nathaniel also, saying, "We have found Him of Whom Moses and the prophets did write, Jesus of Nazareth;" and when Nathaniel in wonder asked, "Can any good come out of Nazareth?" Philip simply answered, "Come and see," and brought him to Jesus. Another characteristic saying of this apostle is preserved for us by St. John. Christ in His last discourse had spoken of His Father; and Philip exclaimed, in the fervor of his thirst for God, "Lord, show us the Father, and it is enough"

St. James the Less, the author of an inspired epistle, was also one of the Twelve. St. Paul tells us that he was favored by a special apparition of Christ after the Resurrection. On the dispersion of the apostles among the nations, St. James was left as Bishop of Jerusalem; and even the Jews held in such high veneration his purity, mortification, and prayer, that they named him the Just. The earliest of Church historians has handed down many traditions of St. James's sanctity.

He was always a virgin, says Hegesippus, and consecrated to God. He drank no wine, wore no sandals on his feet, and but a single garment on his body. He prostrated himself so much in prayer that the skin of his knees was hardened like a camel's hoof. The Jews, it is said, used out of respect to touch the hem of his garment. He was indeed a living proof of his own words, "The wisdom that is from above first indeed is chaste, then peaceable, modest, full of mercy and good fruits." He sat beside St. Peter and St. Paul at the Council of Jerusalem; and when St. Paul at a later time escaped the fury of the Jews by appealing to Caesar, the people took vengeance on James, and crying, "The just one hath erred," stoned him to death.

Reflection--The Church commemorates on the same day Sts. Philip and James, whose bodies lie side by side at Rome. They represent to us two aspects of Christian holiness. The first preaches faith, the second works; the one holy aspirations, the other purity of heart.

†

April 30th: 2nd Sunday after Easter, Good Shepherd Sunday and St. Catherine of Siena, Virgin

Good Shepherd Sunday
Sermons by Fr. Weninger Second Sunday After Easter:
Epistle and Gospel Children's Sermon for Good Shepherd Good Shepherd Sunday Manner of Hearing Mass At Home: For those who on account of sickness, old age, or for other proper reasons cannot assist at holy Mass, especially on Sundays and Holidays Spiritual Communion Duties of Parents as
Shepherds of their Flock Pastors as True Shepherds and the Evils of Negligent Pastors How Catholics lose the Faith by Fr. Michael Muller What Cannot and What Can Be Reformed in the Church. What Every Christian Must Believe and Do to be Saved. Unworthy Communion Eastertide Prayers

St. Catherine of Siena; Litany, Novena and Sermons Temptations and the Devils who Tempt Novena to St. Catherine of Sienna, April 22th - April 30th Novena to St. Athanasius, April 24th - May 2nd Novena for the Solemnity of St. Joseph, April 25th - May 3rd Novena to St. Michael the Archangel, April 30th - May 8th

Holy Rosary: Joyful Mysteries Holy Rosary: Sorrowful Mysteries Holy Rosary: Glorious Mysteries The Little Office of the Blessed Virgin Mary, from Candlemas until Advent

Grant, we beseech Thee, Almighty God: that we who celebrate the festival of blessed Catharine, Thy Virgin, may rejoice at her yearly festival and profit by the example of so great a virtue. Through our Lord etc.

(Roman Breviary)

Catherine, the daughter of a humble tradesman, was raised up to be the guide and guardian of the Church in one of the darkest periods of its history, the fourteenth century. As a child, prayer was her delight. She would say the "Hail Mary" on each step as she mounted the stairs, and was granted in reward a vision of Christ in glory. When but seven years old, she made a vow of virginity, and afterwards endured bitter persecution for refusing to marry. Our Lord gave her His Heart in exchange for her own, communicated her with His own hands, and stamped on her body the print of His wounds. At the age of fifteen she entered the Third Order of St. Dominic, but continued to reside in her father's shop, where she united a life of active charity with the prayer of a contemplative Saint. From this obscure home the seraphic virgin was summoned to defend the Church's cause. Armed with Papal authority, and accompanied by three confessors, she travelled through Italy, reducing rebellious cities to the obedience of the Holy See, and winning hardened souls to God.

In the face well-nigh of the whole world she sought out Gregory XI. at Avignon, brought him back to Rome, and by her letters to the kings and queens of Europe made good the Papal cause. She was the counsellor of Urban VI., and sternly rebuked the disloyal cardinals who had part in electing an antipope. Long had the holy virgin foretold the terrible schism which began ere she died. Day and night she wept and prayed for unity and peace. But the devil excited the Roman people against the Pope, so that some sought the life cf Christ's Vicar. With intense earnestness did St. Catherine beg Our Lord to prevent this enormous crime. In spirit she saw the whole city full of demons tempting the people to resist and even slay the Pope. The seditious temper was subdued by Catherine's prayers; but the devils vented their malice by scourging the Saint herself, who gladly endured all for God and His Church. She died at Rome, in 1380, at the age of thirty-three.

O God, Who in the humility of Thy Son didst raise up the fallen world: grant to Thy faithful abiding gladness; that whereas Thou hast rescued them from the perils of eternal death, thou mayest bring them to the enjoyment of everlasting bliss. Through our Lord Jesus Christ, Thy Son, Who liveth and reigneth with Thee in the unity of the Holy Ghost, one God, world without end. Amen.

†

April 29th: St. Peter of Verona, Marytr

St. Peter the Martyr How Catholics lose the Faith by Fr. Michael Muller Litany of Faith and the Necessity of the Catholic Faith for Salvation Are we bound to profess our Catholic Faith openly? Saints: the Gift of Miracles Resisting the Enemies of Our Salvation Eastertide Prayers

Novena to St. Catherine of Sienna, April 22th - April 30th Novena to St. Athanasius, April 24th - May 2nd Novena for the Solemnity of St. Joseph, April 25th - May 3rd

Holy Rosary: Joyful Mysteries Holy Rosary: Sorrowful Mysteries Holy Rosary: Glorious Mysteries The Little Office of the Blessed Virgin Mary, from Candlemas until Advent

The Sacrament of Penance

Sacrament of Penance The Sacrament of Penance, All of Your Questions Answered The Conversion of Sinners True Conversion: One of the best sermons for hardened sinners Penitent's Consolation Examination of Conscience Rite of Confession General Confession Contrition On Contrition and the Purpose of Amendment Contrition: Explanation of Perfect Contrition and the Necessity of Contrition for Forgiveness of Sins The Nature of Sin Mortal Sin Conscience Index of the Ten Commandments Sermon on Keeping the 10 Commandments Time is No More They that Live in Sin The Sinner Seeks God The Sinner at Death The Necessity of Prayer for Sinners

Grant, we beseech thee, Almighty God: that we may follow the faith of blessed Peter Thy Martyr with befitting devotion; who for the spreading of the same faith was found worthy to win the palm of martyrdom. Through Our Lord etc.

(Roman Breviary)

In 1205 the glorious martyr Peter was born at Verona of heretical parents. He went to a Catholic school, and his Manichean uncle asked what he learnt. "The Creed," answered Peter; "I believe in God, Creator of heaven and earth." No persuasion could shake his faith, and at fifteen he received the habit from St. Dominic himself at Bologna. After ordination, he preached to the heretics of Lombardy, and converted multitudes. St. Peter was constantly obliged to dispute with heretics, and although he was able to confound them, still the devil took occasion thence to tempt him once against faith. Instantly he had recourse to prayer before an image of Our Lady, and heard a voice saying to him the words of Jesus Christ in the Gospel, "I have prayed for thee, Peter, that thy faith may not fail; and thou shalt confirm thy brethren in it."

Once when exhorting a vast crowd under the burning sun, the heretics defied him to procure shade. He prayed, and a cloud overshadowed the audience. In spite of his sanctity, he was foully slandered and even punished for immorality. He submitted humbly, but complained in prayer to Jesus crucified. The crucifix spoke, "And I, Peter, what did I do?" Every day, as he elevated at Mass the precious blood, he prayed, "Grant, Lord, that I may die for Thee, Who for me didst die." His prayer was answered. The heretics, confounded by him, sought his life. Two of them attacked him as he was returning to Milan, and struck his head with an axe. St. Peter fell, commended himself to God, dipped his finger in his own blood, and wrote on the ground, "I believe in God, Creator of heaven and earth." They then stabbed him in the side, and he received his crown.

Reflection--From a boy St. Peter boldly professed his faith among heretics. He spent his life in preaching the faith to heretics, and received the glorious and long-desired crown of martyrdom from heretics. We are surrounded by heretics. Are we courageous, firm, zealous, full of prayer for their conversion, unflinching in our profession of faith?

†

April 28th: St. Paul of the Cross, Confessor

Novena to St. Paul of the Cross, Feast Day April 28th Catholic Book: The Life of Blessed Paul of the Cross St. Paul of the Cross Newly Added
The Short Method of the
Stations of the Cross Litany of the Holy Cross Devotion to the Five
Wounds of Jesus The Steps of Our Saviors Passion.html Passion of Christ Eastertide Prayers

Novena to St. Paul of the Cross, April 20th - April 28th Novena to St. Catherine of Sienna, April 22th - April 30th Novena to St. Athanasius, April 24th - May 2nd Novena for the Solemnity of St. Joseph, April 25th - May 3rd

Holy Rosary: Joyful Mysteries Holy Rosary: Sorrowful Mysteries Holy Rosary: Glorious Mysteries The Little Office of the Blessed Virgin Mary, from Candlemas until Advent

O Lord Jesus Christ, Who didst endow holy Paul with singular charity in preaching the mystery of the Cross, and wast pleased that through him a new family should flourish in the Church: grant, through his intercession, that we who continually recall the memory of Thy Passion while we are on earth, may be deemed worthy to receive the fruit of it in heaven. Who livest etc.

(Roman Breviary)

The eighty-one years of this Saint's life were modelled on the Passion of Jesus Christ. In his childhood, when praying in church, a heavy bench fell on his foot, but the boy took no notice of the bleeding wound, and spoke of it as "a rose sent from God." A few years later, the vision of a scourge with "love" written on its lashes assured him that his thirst for penance would be satisfied. In the hope of dying for the faith, he enlisted in a crusade against the Turks; but a voice from the Tabernacle warned him that he was to serve Christ alone, and that he should found a congregation in His honor. At the command of his bishop he began while a layman to preach the Passion, and a series of crosses tried the reality of his vocation. All his first companions, save his brother, deserted him; the Sovereign Pontiff refused him an audience; and it was only after a delay of seventeen years that the Papal approbation was obtained, and the first house of the Passionists was opened on Monte Argentario, the spot which Our Lady had pointed out.

St. Paul chose as the badge of his Order a heart with three nails, in memory of the sufferings of Jesus, but for himself he invented a more secret and durable sign. Moved by the same holy impulse as Blessed Henry Suso, St. Jane Frances, and other Saints, he branded on his side the Holy Name, and its characters were found there after death. His heart beat with a supernatural palpitation, which was especially vehement on Fridays, and the heat at times was so intense as to scorch his shirt in the region of his heart. Through fifty years of incessant bodily pain, and amidst all his trials, Paul read the love of Jesus everywhere, and would cry out to the flowers and grass, "Oh! be quiet, be quiet," as if they were reproaching him with ingratitude. He died whilst the Passion was being read to him, and so passed with Jesus from the cross to glory.

April 28th: St. Vitalis, Martyr

Saint Vitalis was a first century Christian citizen of Milan and the father of the twin brothers and future martyrs, Saints Gervasius and Protasius. He is the principal patron of Ravenna, where he was martyred.

Divine providence had conducted him to that city, where he saw come before the tribunal there a Christian physician named Ursicinus, who had been tortured and who then was condemned to lose his head for his faith. Suddenly the captive grew terrified at the thought of death, and seemed ready to yield. Vitalis was extremely moved by this spectacle. He knew his double obligation to prefer the glory of God and the eternal salvation of his neighbor to his own corporal life; he therefore boldly and successfully encouraged Ursicinus to triumph over death, saying, "Ursicinus, you who cured others would want to drive into your soul the dagger of eternal death? Do not lose the crown the Lord has prepared for you!" Ursicinus was touched; he knelt down and asked the executioner to strike him. After his martyrdom Saint Vitalis carried away his body and respectfully interred it.

Saint Vitalis now resigned his post as judiciary assistant to Paulinus, who had been absent on the occasion of the sentence of Ursinius. Paulinus had his former assistant apprehended, and after having him tortured, commanded that if he refused to sacrifice to the gods, he be buried alive, which sentence was carried out. Afterwards, his wife Valeria, as she was on her way from Ravenna to Milan, was beaten by peasants because she refused to join them in an idolatrous festival and riot. She died two days later in Milan, and is also honored as a martyr and Saint. Gervasius and Protasius, their sons, sold their heritage and for ten years before their own martyrdom, lived a penitential life of prayer.

Prayer
by Father Prosper Gueranger

Sin is the enemy of the soul; it throws her back again into that death, whence Jesus had drawn her by his Resurrection. To preserve one of thy brethren from this misery, thou, O Vitalis, bravely raisedst a cry of zealous warning to him in the midst of his torments, and thy words awakened him to self-possession and courage. Show this same fraternal charity to us. We are living with the Life of our Risen Jesus; but the enemy is bent on robbing us of this Life. He will seek to intimidate us; he will lay all manner of snares wherewith to deceive us; he will give us battle, and this untiringly. Pray then for us, O holy Martyr, that we may be on our guard, and that the mystery of the Pasch may be fully accomplished within us, now and for ever!

†

April 27th: St. Peter Canisius, Confessor and Doctor of the Church

St. Peter Canisius The Resurrection and Ascension of Jesus Christ, as Illustrated by Catholic Artist and Historian, James Tissot, 1899 Video: The Resurrection and Ascension of Our Lord Eastertide Prayers Spiritual Communion

Novena to St. Paul of the Cross, April 20th - April 28th Novena to St. Catherine of Sienna, April 22th - April 30th Novena to St. Athanasius, April 24th - May 2nd Novena for the Solemnity of St. Joseph, April 25th - May 3rd

Holy Rosary: Joyful Mysteries Holy Rosary: Sorrowful Mysteries Holy Rosary: Glorious Mysteries The Little Office of the Blessed Virgin Mary, from Candlemas until Advent

O God, Who for the defense of the Catholic faith didst endow blessed Peter Thy Confessor with virtue and learning: mercifully grant that by his example and teaching, the hearts of those who have gone astray may return to the way of salvation and the souls of the faithful may remain steadfast in the confession of the truth. Through our Lord etc.

(Roman Breviary)

Born in 1521 of a distinguished family of Holland, Saint Peter Canisius studied in Cologne and received his license as doctor of civil law; he then went to Louvain (Belgium) to learn canon law. These studies followed close upon the days when Luther had burnt the papal bulls at Wittenberg, Germany. Soon Saint Peter, become a Jesuit, was teaching at the University of Cologne; he was there when the unfortunate archbishop of that city fell into the new heresy. The Catholics who desired to depose him needed a deputy to the emperor to present their request, and Saint Peter was chosen.

His mission, seconded by the Holy Spirit, succeeded; and the deputy was remarked by a Cardinal, who desired to send him to the Council of Trent as his representative and theologian. Saint Peter's superior, Saint Ignatius of Loyola himself, approved this choice, and the young Jesuit took his place among the Fathers of the Council. He was commissioned to draft a memoir on the exact nature of the errors being propagated in the lands of the reform, in consort with the Pope's theologian, another Jesuit named Jacques Laynez. Their work was admired; the Council was dissolved soon afterwards, however, and Saint Peter was recalled to Rome by Saint Ignatius, to consult with him concerning the formation of the religious and the future of their Order.

Afterwards Saint Peter and two other Jesuits founded a college at Ingolstadt, going there with only two books in their baggage, the Spiritual Exercises of Saint Ignatius and the famous Ratio Studiorum, or Plan of Studies of their Order. Saint Peter was named Rector of the University by that institution.

He was in demand everywhere; King Ferdinand of Rome obtained his presence for Vienna. A pestilence broke out there, and he was most often found at the bedside of the dying, caring for the bodies and regenerating the souls of the unfortunate citizens. He opened a boarding school for boys, and Vienna soon found itself reborn in the faith: the famous Catechism of Saint Peter Canisius had much to do with the renovation. During his lifetime it appeared in more than 200 editions, in at least twelve languages. It remains a monument of the triumph of the Church over error in the time of Luther.

Its author had tried to keep his name a secret but did not succeed, and then several nations disputed the honor of his presence. But Saint Peter was Provincial of Germany, named by Saint Ignatius, and he concerned himself above all with the colleges at Prague, Ingolstadt and Munich. Until his death in 1597 the Apostle of Germany continued the valiant and perpetual combat of the Church against error. For a long time forgotten, Saint Peter was canonized and declared a Doctor of the Church by Pope Pius XI in 1927.

†

April 26th: Our Lady of Good Counsel (Celebrated in some places)

Our Lady of Good Counsel: Prayers, Litany and Book, "The Virgin Mother of Good Counsel" The Life of the Blessed Virgin Mary as Set Forth in Her Titles from the Litany of Loreto The Resurrection and Ascension of Jesus Christ, as Illustrated by Catholic Artist and Historian, James Tissot, 1899 Video: The Resurrection and Ascension of Our Lord Eastertide Prayers Spiritual Communion

Novena to Our Lady of Good Counsel, April 18th - April 26th Novena to St. Paul of the Cross, April 20th - April 28th Novena to St. Catherine of Sienna, April 22th - April 30th Novena to St. Athanasius, April 24th - May 2nd Novena for the Solemnity of St. Joseph, April 25th - May 3rd

Holy Rosary: Joyful Mysteries Holy Rosary: Sorrowful Mysteries Holy Rosary: Glorious Mysteries The Little Office of the Blessed Virgin Mary, from Candlemas until Advent

During the afternoon of April 25, 1467, the inhabitants of the little town of Genezzano, in Italy, heard celestial music--music that seemed to descend from the cloudless heavens. And then they saw a snow-white cloud, high above the town's highest houses, from which cloud shone forth rays of the most dazzling light. The cloud came nearer gradually, and finally rested on the wall of a ruined chapel--the bells of the chapel's tower ringing out although it was apparent that no human hand had set them in motion, and every church bell in the town sounded as if in answer. Little by little the cloud cleared away, and where it had been now stood an image of Our Blessed Lady, smiling on the Divine Child in Her arms. The villagers of Genezzano could not but think that the image had come from Heaven itself. It had come from Albania, across the Adriatic Sea, however.

There, in the town of Scutari, this image of Our Lady--known then as the "Madonna of Scutari"--had miraculously appeared some two centuries before, and had been greatly venerated. For instance, the great Albanian, General Scanderbeg, openly declared that his victories over the Moslems were due to the Madonna of Scutari. When he died, the Moslems again threatened the country, and many Albanians sought safety in flight. Among them were two pious clients of Mary, Georgio and Sclavios by name, who went to visit their beloved Madonna just before their departure. As they knelt at Our Lady's shrine, they were astounded to see the image loosen itself from the wall, and, enveloped in a shining cloud, float out of the Church toward the sea. They followed. The image floated on over the sea, and the pious men stepped into the water and were borne up, without even trying to swim, till they reached the Italian shore. On land, they still followed the picture to the very gates of Rome, where the image disappeared. Nor did they see it again, until, having heard of its miraculous advent in Genezzano, they found it there, already rich in renown on account of the miracles wrought by its means, in the Augustinian Church where it still hangs today (its coloring not in the least tarnished or faded, by the way).

In 1862, the miraculous image was crowned, and the title of "Our Lady of Good Counsel" also dates back to the seventeenth century. From the time of the image's coming until this very day hundreds upon hundreds of miraculous cures and conversions have taken place at the shrine of Our Lady of Good Counsel, in Genezzano. Many indulgences are attached to membership in the sodality of Our Lady of Good Counsel, generally known as "The Pious Union."

April 26th: Sts. Cletus and Marcellinus, Popes and Martyrs

O eternal Shepherd, watch over the peace of Thy flock, and through blessed Cletus and Marcellinus, Thy Martyrs and Sovereign Pontiffs, whom Thou didst appoint shepherds over the whole Church, keep her under thy constant protection. Through our Lord etc.

(Roman Breviary)

St. Cletus was the third Bishop of Rome, and succeeded St. Linus, which circumstance alone shows his eminent virtue among the first disciples of St. Peter in the West. He sat twelve years, from 76 to 89. The canon of the Roman Mass, Bede, and other martyrologists, style him a martyr. He was buried near St. Linus, in the Vatican, and his relics still remain in that church.

St. Marcellinus succeeded St. Coins in the bishopric of Rome in 296, about the time that Diocletian set himself up for a deity, and impiously claimed divine honors. In those stormy times of persecution Marcellinus acquired great glory. He sat in St. Peter's chair eight years, three months, and twenty-five days, dying in 304, a year after the cruel persecution broke out, in which he gained much honor. He has been styled a martyr, though his blood was not shed in the cause of religion.

Reflection--It is a fundamental maxim of the Christian morality, and a truth which Christ has established in the clearest terms and in innumerable passages of the Gospel, that the cross or sufferings and mortification are the road to eternal bliss. They, therefore, who lead not here a crucified and mortified life are unworthy ever to possess the unspeakable joys of His kingdom. Our Lord Himself, our model and our he-ad, walked in this path, and His great Apostle puts us in mind that He entered into bliss only by His blood and by the cross.

†

April 25th: St. Mark, the Evangelist

St. Mark, Evangelist Rogation Days The Lives of the 12 Apostles and St. Paul: The Apostles Creed The Labor of the Apostles: Their Teaching of the Nations The Greater Litanies of the Saints The Resurrection and Ascension of Jesus Christ, as Illustrated by Catholic Artist and Historian, James Tissot, 1899

Novena to St. Mark, April 17th through April 25th Novena to Our Lady of Good Counsel, April 18th - April 26th Novena to St. Paul of the Cross, April 20th - April 28th Novena to St. Catherine of Sienna, April 22th - April 30th Novena to St. Athanasius, April 24th - May 2nd Novena for the Solemnity of St. Joseph, April 25th - May 3rd

Holy Rosary: Joyful Mysteries Holy Rosary: Sorrowful Mysteries Holy Rosary: Glorious Mysteries The Little Office of the Blessed Virgin Mary, from Candlemas until Advent

O God, Who by Thy grace didst raise up blessed Mark the Evangelist to be a preacher of the gospel: grant, we beseech Thee, that we may both profit by his teaching and be defended by his prayers. Through our Lord etc.

(Roman Breviary)

St. Mark was converted to the Faith by the Prince of the Apostles, whom he afterwards accompanied to Rome, acting there as his secretary or interpreter. When St. Peter was writing his first epistle to the churches of Asia, he affectionately joins with his own salutation that of his faithful companion, whom he calls "my son Mark." The Roman people entreated St. Mark to put in writing for them the substance of St. Peter's frequent discourses on Our Lord's life. This the Evangelist did under the eye and with the express sanction of the apostle, and every page of his brief but graphic gospel so bore the impress of St. Peter's character, that the Fathers used to name it "Peter's Gospel."

St. Mark was now sent to Egypt to found the Church of Alexandria. Here his disciples became the wonder of the world for their piety and asceticism, so that St. Jerome speaks of St. Mark as the father of the anchorites, who at a later time thronged the Egyptian deserts. Here, too, he set up the first Christian school, the fruitful mother of many illustrious doctors and bishops. After governing his see for many years, St. Mark was one day seized by the heathen, dragged by ropes over stones, and thrown into prison. On the morrow the torture was repeated, and having been consoled by a vision of angels and the voice of Jesus, St. Mark went to his reward.

It is to St. Mark that we owe the many slight touches which often give such vivid coloring to the Gospel scenes, and help us to picture to ourselves the very gestures and looks of our blessed Lord. It is he alone who notes that in the temptation Jesus was "with the beasts;" that He slept in the boat "on a pillow;" that He "embraced" the little children. He alone preserves for us the commanding words "Peace, be still!" by which the storm was quelled; or even the very sounds of His voice, the "Ephpheta" and "Talitha cumi," by which the dumb were made to speak and the dead to rise. So, too, the "looking round about with anger," and the "sighing deeply," long treasured in the memory of the penitent apostle, who was himself converted by his Saviour's look, are here recorded by his faithful interpreter.

Reflection.--Learn from St. Mark to keep the image of the Son of man ever before your mind, and to ponder every syllable which fell from His lips.

†

April 24th: St. Fidelis, Martyr and 4th Sunday After Easter

St. Fidelis, Martyr Eastertide Prayers The Resurrection and Ascension of Jesus Christ, as Illustrated by Catholic Artist and Historian, James Tissot, 1899 Spiritual Communion

Novena for Easter, April 16th through April 24th Novena to St. Mark, April 17th through April 25th Novena to Our Lady of Good Counsel, April 18th - April 26th Novena to St. Paul of the Cross, April 20th - April 28th Novena to St. Catherine of Sienna, April 22th - April 30th Novena to St. Athanasius, April 24th - May 2nd

Holy Rosary: Joyful Mysteries Holy Rosary: Sorrowful Mysteries Holy Rosary: Glorious Mysteries The Little Office of the Blessed Virgin Mary, from Candlemas until Advent

O God, Who didst vouchsafe to inflame the soul of blessed Fidelis with seraphic fervor, and to adorn him with the palm of martyrdom and with glorious miracles, in spreading the true faith: we beseech Thee, through his merits and intercession to strengthen us in faith and love by Thy grace, that we may be worthy to be found faithful in Thy service even unto death. Through our Lord etc.

St. Fidelis was born at Sigmaringen in 1577, of noble parents. In his youth he frequently approached the sacraments, visited the sick and the poor, and spent moreover many hours before the altar. For a time he followed the legal profession, and was remarkable for his advocacy of the poor and his respectful language towards his opponents. Finding it difficult to become both a rich lawyer and a good Christian, Fidelis entered the Capuchin Order, and embraced a life of austerity and prayer. Hair shirts, iron-pointed girdles, and disciplines were penances too light for his fervor; and being filled with a desire of martyrdom, he rejoiced at being sent to Switzerland by the newly-founded Congregation of Propaganda, and braved every peril to rescue souls from the diabolical heresy of Calvin.

When preaching at Sevis he was fired at by a Calvinist, but the fear of death could not deter him from proclaiming divine truth. After his sermon he was waylaid by a body of Protestants headed by a minister, who attacked him and tried to force him to embrace their so-called reform. But he said, "I came to refute your errors, not to embrace them; I will never renounce Catholic doctrine, which is the truth of all ages, and I fear not death." On this they fell upon him with their poignards, and the first martyr of Propaganda went to receive his palm.

Reflection--We delight in decorating the altars of God with flowers, lights, and jewels, and it is right to do so; but if we wish to offer to God gifts of higher value, let us, in imitation of St. Fidelis, save the souls who but for us would be lost; for so we shall offer Him, as it were, the jewels of paradise.

Prayer:

How truly couldst thou, O Fidelis! say with the Apostle: I have finished my course (II. Tim. iv. 7)! Yea, thy death was even more beautiful than thy life, holy as that was. How admirable the calmness wherewith thou receivedst death! how grand the joy wherwith thou didst welcome the blows of thine enemies, thine, because they were those of the Church! Thy dying prayer, like Stephen's, was for them; for the Catholic, while he hates heresy, must love the heretics who put him to death. Pray, O holy Martyr, for the children of the Church. Obtain for them an appreciation of the value of Faith, and of the favour of God bestowed on them when he made them members of the true Church. May they be on their guard against the many false doctrines, which are now current through the world. May they not be shaken by the scandals which abound in this our age of effeminacy and pride.

It is Faith that is to bring us to our Risen Jesus: and He urges us to it by the words he addressed to Thomas: Blessed are they that have not seen, and have believed (St. John, xx. 29)! Of this number we wish to be; and therefore is it, that we cling to the Church, the sovereign mistress of Faith. We wish to believe her, and not Human Reason, which has neither the power to fathom the Word of God, nor the right to sit in judgment over it. Jesus has willed, that this holy Faith should come down to us bearing on itself the strengthening testimony of the Martyrs; and each age has had its Martyrs. Glory to thee, O Fidelis, who didst win thy palm by combating the errors of the pretended Reformation! Take a Martyr's revenge, and pray without ceasing, to our Jesus, that he would bring all heretics back to the Faith and to union with the Church. They are our Brethren by Baptism; pray for them, that they may return to the Fold, and that we may one day celebrate with them the true Paschal Banquet, wherein the Lamb of God gives himself to be our food, not figuratively, as in the Old Law, but really and truly, as becometh the New Covenant.

†

April 23rd: St. George, Martyr. Low Sunday

Low Sunday: Sermon for Chidren and Adults Sermons: Low Sunday The Spiritual Resurrection Are we bound to profess our Catholic Faith openly? How Catholics lose the Faith by Fr. Michael Muller Manner of Hearing Mass At Home: For those who on account of sickness, old age, or for other proper reasons cannot assist at holy Mass, especially on Sundays and Holidays Spiritual Communion The Resurrection and Ascension of Jesus Christ, as Illustrated by Catholic Artist and Historian, James Tissot, 1899 Eastertide Prayers

Novena for Easter, April 16th through April 24th Novena to St. Mark, April 17th through April 25th Novena to Our Lady of Good Counsel, April 18th - April 26th Novena to St. Paul of the Cross, April 20th - April 28th Novena to St. Catherine of Sienna, April 22th - April 30th Novena to St. Athanasius, April 24th - May 2nd

Holy Rosary: Joyful Mysteries Holy Rosary: Sorrowful Mysteries Holy Rosary: Glorious Mysteries The Little Office of the Blessed Virgin Mary, from Candlemas until Advent

Grant, we beseech Thee, Almighty God, that we who have been celbrating the Paschal Festivities, may, through Thy bounty, ever retain their effect, both in life and in conversation. Through our Lord, etc.

(Roman Breviary)

Meditation for Low Sunday

How Christ appeared to His Disciples in the Cenacle (John xx.)

First Point.--Consider how to Christ no door is shut, and how where evil could not find admittance good entered. For the disciples being assembled in the Cenacle, the doors well closed for fear of the Jews, Christ arisen and glorious entered, and placed Himself in their midst, like the sun in the centre of the heavens, illuminating and gladdening their hearts with the light of His Resurrection and the sweetness of His words. Consider the benignity of the Saviour, the love He bears His chosen ones, the care He takes to console them in their sorrows, and how for this purpose He multiplies miracles, making use of the subtility that He enjoyed in His glorious Body to enter through closed doors. Rejoice to have such a Lord and Master, and place great confidence in His love and providence; beg of Him to visit thee in thine afflictions and troubles, and to console and strengthen thee as He did His apostles and disciples.

Second Point.--Ponder how in this visit Christ placed Himself in the centre of that congregation; for He desires to be in the midst of His chosen ones, and in the centre of thy heart, making it His abode and resting-place. Empty it then of all earthly things, and offer it entirely to Him, that He may come unto thee, visit thee, console thee, and abide with thee. Ponder the extreme delight of all that holy company at beholding the glory of their Master and Redeemer; how all would approach to adore, reverence, and serve Him; with what love and caresses He would receive them, and reassure them against the fear they were in of the Jews who persecuted them. Approach thou also, adore and reverence thy Lord; beg of Him to bless thee, to give thee a share in the joy of His Resurrection, and to strengthen and encourage thee in His holy service.

Third Point.--Consider how He showed them the sacred wounds of His Hands, Feet, and Side, which in His glorified Body must have shone more brightly than the stars of heaven, thus increasing His beauty. See how He prides Himself on having suffered for thee, that thou mayst place thy pride in suffering for Him; and behold how the affronts and wounds suffered in this world for the glory of God and the good of souls are in the next turned into diamonds and precious stones of glory, honour, and beauty. O Lord! would that I might suffer affronts, stripes, wounds, insults, and death for Thee as Thou didst endure them for me! Beg of the Lord this favour, and encourage thyself by His example to suffer with joy for His love whatever may befall thee..

Fourth Point.--Consider how the Evangelist St. John says that He then breathed on them, and gave them the Holy Ghost for the remission of sins, not contenting Himself with the great happiness He gave them in making them participators of the glory of His Resurrection, but giving them at the same time the fulness of the Holy Spirit for the forgiveness of sins. Especially for this did Christ come into the world, for this He sent His disciples, not to punish but to forgive sins, and for this did He communicate to them the Holy Ghost. Oh, that He would come into our souls, and give us this gift of gifts of His Holy Spirit! Beg of Him to come into thine, and to do thee this favour, pardoning thee thy sins with the liberality with which He pardoned the apostles, giving them the very breath of His mouth. O Lord, that Thou wouldst give me strength with Thy breath, the pardon of my sins, and grace to abide in Thy favour; this I beg, this I entreat; hold me in Thy hand that I may never offend Thee more.

St. George, Martyr 14 Holy Helpers Does Satan Exist? St. Michael/ Exorcism Are we bound to profess our Catholic Faith openly? Resisting the Enemies of Our Salvation

O God, Who dost gladden us by the merits and intercession of blessed George Thy Martyr: grant in Thy mercy, that we who beg for Thy blessings through him may obtain them by the gift of Thy grace. Through our Lord etc.

St. George was born in Cappadocia, at the close of the third century, of Christian parents. In early youth he chose a soldier's life, and soon obtained the favor of Diocletian, who advanced him to the grade of tribune. When, however, the emperor began to persecute the Christians, George rebuked him at once sternly and openly for his cruelty, and threw up his commission. He was in consequence subjected to a lengthened series of torments, and finally beheaded. There was something so inspiring in the defiant cheerfulness of the young soldier, that every Christian felt a personal share in this triumph of Christian fortitude.

As years rolled on St. George became a type of successful combat against evil, the slayer of the dragon, the darling theme of camp song and story, until "so thick a shade his very glory round him made" that his real lineaments became hard to trace. Even beyond the circle of Christendom he was held in honor, and invading Saracens taught themselves to except from desecration the image of him they hailed as the "White-horsed Knight." The devotion to St. George is one of the most ancient and widely spread in the Church. In the East, a church of St. George is ascribed to Constantine, and his name is invoked in the most ancient liturgies; whilst in the West, Malta, Barcelona, Valencia, Arragon, Genoa, and England have chosen him as their patron.

Reflection--"What shall I say of fortitude, without which neither wisdom nor justice is of any worth? Fortitude is not of the body, but is a constancy of soul; wherewith we are conquerors in righteousness, patiently bear all adversities, and in prosperity are not puffed up. This fortitude he lacks who is overcome by pride, anger, greed, drunkenness, and the like. Neither have they fortitude who when in adversity make shift to escape at their souls� expense; wherefore the Lord saith, 'Fear not those who kill the body, but cannot kill the soul.' In like manner those who are puffed up in prosperity and abandon themselves to excessive joviality cannot be called strong. For how can they be called strong who cannot hide and repress the heart's emotion? Fortitude is never conquered, or if conquered, is not fortitude."--St. Bruno.

Prayer:

Thou, O George, art the glorious type of a Christian Soldier. Whilst serving under an earthly Monarch, thou didst not forget thy duty to the King of heaven. Thou didst shed thy blood for the faith of Christ; and he, in return, appointed thee Protector of Christian Armies. Be their defender in battle, and bless with victory them that fight in a just cause. Protect them under the shadow of thy standard; cover them with thy shield; make them the terror of their enemies. Our Lord is the God of Hosts; and He frequently uses War as the instrument of His designs, both of justice and mercy. They alone win true victory, who have heaven on their side; and these, when on the battle-field, seem to the world to be doing the work of man, whereas it is the work of God they are furthering. Hence are they more generous, because more religious, than other men. The sacrifices they have to make, and the dangers they have to face, teach them unselfishness. What wonder, then, that Soldiers have given so many Martyrs to the Church!

But there is another warfare, in which we Christians are all enlisted, and of which St. Paul speaks, when he says: Labour as a good Soldier of Christ; for no man is crowned save he that striveth lawfully (II. Tim. ii. 5). That we have thus to strive and fight during our life, the same Apostle assures us of it in these words : Take unto you the Armour of God, that ye may be able to resist in the evil day, and to stand in all things perfect. Stand, therefore, having your loins girt about with truth, and having on the Breastplate of justice, and your feet shod with the preparation of the Gospel of peace. In all things taking the Shield of Faith, wherewith ye may be able to extinguish all the fiery darts of the most wicked one. And take unto you the Helmet of the hope of salvation, and the Sword of the spirit, which is the word of God (Eph. vi. 13, 17). We, then, are Soldiers, as thou wast, O holy Martyr! Before ascending into heaven, our divine Leader wishes to review His troops; do thou present us to Him. He has loaded us with honours, notwithstanding our past disloyalties; we must, henceforth, prove ourselves worthy of our position. In the Paschal Communion which we have received, we have a pledge of victory; how can we ever be so base, as to permit ourselves to be conquered! Watch over us, O sainted Warrior! Let thy prayers and example encourage us to fight against the dragon of hell. He dreads the Armour we wear; for it is Jesus Himself that prepared it for us, and tempered it in his own precious Blood: oh ! that, like thee, we may present it to Him whole and entire, when He calls us to our eternal rest.

†

April 22nd: Sts. Soter and Caius, Popes, Martyrs. Easter Saturday.

Easter Saturday: The Holy Sepulchre The Resurrection and Ascension of Jesus Christ, as Illustrated by Catholic Artist and Historian, James Tissot, 1899 Eastertide Prayers Spiritual Communion The Little Office of the Blessed Virgin Mary, from Candlemas until Advent Novena for Easter, April 16th through April 24th Novena to St. Mark, April 17th through April 25th Novena to Our Lady of Good Counsel, April 18th - April 26th Novena to St. Paul of the Cross, April 20th - April 28th Novena to St. Catherine of Sienna, April 22th - April 30th

The Sacrament of Penance

Sacrament of Penance The Sacrament of Penance, All of Your Questions Answered The Conversion of Sinners Penitent's Consolation Examination of Conscience Rite of Confession General Confession Contrition The Nature of Sin Mortal Sin Conscience Index of the Ten Commandments Sermon on Keeping the 10 Commandments The Conversion of Sinners Time is No More They that Live in Sin The Sinner Seeks God The Sinner at Death The Necessity of Prayer for Sinners

O Eternal Shepherd, watch over the peace of Thy flock, and through blessed Soter and Caius, Thy Martyrs and Sovereign Pontiffs, whom Thou didst appoint shepherds over the whole Church, keep her under Thy contact protection. Through our Lord.

Ant. Perpetual light shall shine upon Thy Saints, O Lord, and an eternity of ages, alleluia.

V. O ye holy and just ones, rejoice in the Lord, alleluia.

R. God has chosen you to Himself for an inheritance, alleluia.

(Roman Breviary)

Saint Soter was raised to the papacy upon the death of Saint Anicetus in 161. By the sweetness of his discourses he comforted all afflicted persons with the tenderness of a father, and assisted the indigent with liberal alms, especially those who suffered for the Faith. He liberally extended his charities, according to the custom of his predecessors, to remote churches. He aided in particular that of Corinth, to which he addressed an excellent letter. Saint Dionysius of Corinth in his letter of thanks to Saint Soter, adds that the Pontifical letter together with the letter of Saint Clement, Pope, was read for the edification of the faithful on Sundays, during their assemblies to celebrate the divine mysteries.

One of Saint Soter�s ordinances required all Christians except those in public penance to receive Communion on Holy Thursday. Saint Soter vigorously opposed the heresy of Montanus, and governed the Church up to the year 170. He was martyred on April 22, 170, under the emperor Marcus Aurelius, and buried on the Appian Way in the cemetery of Callixtus.

Pope Saint Caius, born in Dalmatia, was a relative of the emperor Diocletian. The cruel emperor did not for that reason spare him or his family during the bloody persecution of the years 283 to 296, during which the Christians of Rome were obliged to conceal themselves in caverns and cemeteries.

Saint Caius counseled a patrician named Chromatius to receive the tracked disciples of Christ in his country residence. He himself went to visit them on a Sunday, and said to the faithful assembled there that Our Lord Jesus Christ, knowing the fragility of human nature, established two degrees in the practice of Christianity, confession and martyrdom. Our Saviour did so, he said, �so that those who do not believe they could stand up under torment, may nonetheless conserve the grace of the faith by their confession.� Our Lord had indeed specified, "When you are persecuted in one city, flee to another . . ." Then he said, "Those who wish to stay in the house of Chromatius, remain with Tiburtius, while those who prefer to return with me to the city, come." Several followed him back to Rome; among them are the martyrs of the same persecution, the brothers Saints Marcus and Marcellinus, and Saint Sebastian.

Saint Caius himself received the crown of martyrdom in the final year of the persecution, 296, and was buried in the cemetery of Callixtus, where his body was found in 1622, with an inscription identifying him as Vicar of Christ.

†

April 21st: Easter Friday and St. Anselm, Bishop, Confessor and Doctor of the Church

St. Anselm Mortal Sin Easter Friday: In Defense of the Resurrection Paschal Time Eastertide Prayers Video: Resurrection and Ascension Novena for Easter, April 16th through April 24th Novena to St. Mark, April 17th through April 25th Novena to Our Lady of Good Counsel, April 18th - April 26th Novena to St. Paul of the Cross, April 20th - April 28th The Resurrection and Ascension of Jesus Christ, as Illustrated by Catholic Artist and Historian, James Tissot, 1899

How Christ Bore His Wounds on His Risen Body

by Alonso de Andrade, 1878

First Point. Today being Friday, contemplate the marks of the Passion on the risen Body of Christ our Lord, each one more resplendent than the sun; see what glory the Eternal Father has bestowed on Him because of all He suffered for men. Consider that whereas He might have risen without those marks, as He did without those of the stripes and of the thorns, and those made on His Divine Face by the buffets He received, He willed that the wounds made by the nails and the spear should remain, because they were the marks of His Cross by which He consummated our redemption. Whence thou shouldst derive great courage and consolation in thy troubles and labours, remembering that they are tokens of glory and means to attain it, and that in a few days they will be changed into the eternal repose that thou wilt enjoy in bliss.

Second Point. Consider the reasons why Christ preserved the wounds of His Passion on His sacred Body after the Resurrection, of which one was to keep alive and fresh in us the memory of His Passion, and to give us to understand that, as the Apostle St. John tells us in the Apocalypse, that in heaven the angels and blessed sing canticles of the Passion, so here on earth His chosen ones should also sing them, bearing it ever in mind, meditating it, contemplating it, and conversing thereon; for there is nothing more agreeable to the Lord. Beg of God His grace to meditate His Passion as thou shouldst, and with all the tenderness and gratitude to which so great a mercy obliges thee.

Third Point. Consider another reason given by St. Bernard, which is that He might intercede for men before the Eternal Father, showing His open wounds, and begging, through them, pardon for sin and fresh graces and mercies. O Lord, what thanks can I render Thee for the love Thou bearest me, since not once, but many times, Thou hast opened for me the wounds of Thy sacred Body! O my soul! see what an Advocate thou hast in the presence of God, and what a plea, signed with His Blood, He presents at His tribunal for thee! Pray with Him ; offer those most precious wounds in satisfaction for thy sins, and beg of the Eternal Father through them to grant thee fresh favours; for their value is infinite, and therefore greater than anything thou canst ask for or obtain. Beg for thyself and for the whole Church abundance of celestial goods; let the wounds of Christ supply with their value what is wanting to thy works.

Fourth Point. Consider how St. Paul says that he bore stamped on his body the wounds of Christ, because by mortification and penance he made himself His image, also because he glorified in them rejoicing more in ignominies for Christ's sake than in the honours of the world, and also because of the grateful memory he always carried with him of so signal a benefit. Whence let us draw so to study the image of our Redeemer as to transform our bodies into living images of Him by mortification and penance, to glory in His ignominies, as He gloried in suffering them for us, and to take courage to suffer crucifixion and death, if need be, for His service.

†

April 20th: Easter Thursday

Easter Thursday Paschal Time Eastertide Prayers Video: Resurrection and Ascension Novena for Easter, April 16th through April 24th Novena to St. Mark, April 17th through April 25th Novena to Our Lady of Good Counsel, April 18th - April 26th Novena to St. Paul of the Cross, April 20th - April 28th The Resurrection and Ascension of Jesus Christ, as Illustrated by Catholic Artist and Historian, James Tissot, 1899

On the happiness of possessing the grace of God, and the misery of being deprived of it

by St. Alphonsus Liguori

Man knows not the value of divine grace, and hence he exchanges it for a mere nothing. It is a treasure of infinite value. The gentiles said it was impossible for a creature to become the friend of God. But no; divine grace induces God to call the soul that possesses it His friend: You are my friends, said our Blessed Saviour, to His disciples. St. John, xv. 14. When therefore, O God, my soul was in the state of grace, it was Thy friend; but by sin it became the slave of the devil and Thine enemy. I give Thee thanks for affording me time to recover Thy grace. I am sorry, O Lord, with my whole heart for having lost it; in Thy pity restore it to me, and suffer me not to lose it any more.

How fortunate should that man esteem himself who becomes the friend of his king. It would be presumption for a vassal to expect that his prince should make him his friend; but it is not presumption for the soul to aspire to be the friend of God. If I would become a friend of Caesar, (said a certain courtier, as St. Augustin relates,) I should have great difficulty in becoming such, but if I would become the friend of God, I am already His friend. An act of contrition and of love makes us the friends of God. St. Peter of Alcantara said: "No tongue can express the greatness of the love of Jesus for a soul in the state of his grace." O my God, am I in Thy grace or not? I certainly know that at one time I had lost it, and who knows whether I have regained it? O Lord, I love Thee, and am sorry for having offended Thee, make haste to pardon me.

Oh how great on the contrary, is the misery of a soul that is fallen from the state of grace! She is separated from the sovereign good. She belongs no more to God, and God belongs no more to her. She is no longer loved by God, but hated and abhorred by Him. Before, He blessed her as His child, but now, He curses her as His enemy. Such is the unhappy state in which I was, O God, when I had forfeited Thy grace. I hope I have arisen from my unhappy condition, but if I have not, hasten, O Jesus, to rescue me from it. Thou hast promised to love those who love Thee. I love Thee, my sovereign good, do thou love me; and may I hope never again to be deprived of Thy love. Holy Mary, succour me your humble client: I commend myself to your patronage.

†

April 19th, Easter Wednesday

Novena for Easter Easter Wednesday Paschal Time Eastertide Prayers Novena for Easter, April 16th through April 24th Novena to St. Mark, April 17th through April 25th Novena to Our Lady of Good Counsel, April 18th - April 26th

For the Wednesday
in Easter Week:

How Christ Appeared to the Apostles whilst Fishing in
the Sea of Tiberias (JOHN XXI.)

by Alonso de Andrade, 1878

First Point. Consider how, as the Holy Evangelist St. John tells us, St. Peter invited the other disciples to go fishing, and not having caught anything all night, Christ appeared on the shore and ordered them to cast the net on the right hand, and they then took a great draught.

Wherein ponder how it becomes the disciples of Christ to solicit others to the performance of good works in His service after the example of St. Peter, and learn hence always to draw thy neighbor to works of piety and devotion, and to persuade him to the performance of them. Consider next the mercy of the Savior, and how great was that He manifested towards His disciples, appearing to them during their labor, and when discouraged at having caught nothing, and draw thence great confidence in God, that He will be favorable to thee and visit thee in thy labors, and in the works that thou undertakes for His holy service. Beg of Him not to forget thee, but to visit and strengthen thee as He visited and strengthened His disciples.

Second Point. Consider the reasons why the disciples caught nothing until Christ our Redeemer came to them. First, because they cast their net at night, which signifies sin; and those that work whilst in a state of sin, however hard they labor, gain nothing for eternal life. Secondly, because at first they fished of their own will, and afterwards in obedience to Christ's command, which assures success to those who are governed and guided by it.

Thirdly, because they cast the net on the left hand, which signifies the temporal goods of this world; and Christ our Lord commanded them to cast it on the right, which symbolizes eternal treasures. From which thou hast to learn to labor always in the light of grace, and not in the darkness of sin, to be guided by the will of God, seeking always His honor, glory, and service, in whatever works thou dost perform, and always to cast thy net to the right, seeking heavenly things if thou wouldst obtain great profit.

Grieve for all the labor thou hast spent in the course of thy life in laying up perishable riches, and in seeking the dignities and vain honors of this world, all of which are empty nothingness; and taking the advice of Christ, cast thy net to the right for time and heavenly riches, and thy labor will be as completely successful as was that of the disciples.

Third Point. Consider how the Holy Evangelist says, that whilst the disciples were fishing at His command, Christ was on the shore, in their sight, without their knowing Him, preparing food for them when they should come. For He is ever in sight of those who labor for His service, without their seeing or knowing Him, and He prepares their food, providing for their needs.

Draw from this great courage to employ thyself in His service, with steadfast confidence in the care His providence ever has of His servants and of thee, supplying thy wants. Cast all thy care with the utmost confidence into His hands, and be assured that He sees and assists thee in thy works and labors, as He did the disciples, though thou sees Him not with thy bodily eyes.

Fourth Point. Consider how, as soon as the disciples had taken so great a draught of fishes, they recognized that it was by the virtue of Christ; and learn to acknowledge that the success of thy labors is the work of His hands, and to give Him thanks for it, attributing the glory of them to Him from whose hand thou receives it.

See how the disciples then came to shore, with what joy Christ would receive them, and theirs at beholding Him risen ; the benignity with which He would sit down with them, divide the bread and fish that He had prepared on the hot coals, and give it to them to eat. O sweet Jesus! blessed be Thou a thousand times for dealing thus with Thy servants! Who would not serve Thee always, Who art so tender and loving? Approach the Lord, my soul, with the disciples, leave the restless sea of this world in which thou art engulfed, abandon the nets which hold thee prisoner, and casting aside all worldly occupations, entreat Him to permit thee to draw near to His table, beg of Him to give thee a few of the crumbs that fall from it, and take thy place amongst His people, to remain for ever in His service.

†

April 18th, Easter Tuesday

Easter Tuesday Paschal Time Eastertide Prayers Novena for Easter, April 16th through April 24th Novena to St. Mark, April 17th through April 25th Novena to Our Lady of Good Counsel, April 18th - April 26th

Easter Tuesday: The Resurrection of Christ
by Rev. Johann Zollner

The Resurrection of Christ encourages us to the faithful performance of the divine will in every situation of life.

(a.) "My food is to do the will of him that sent me, that I may perfect his work."John--4:, 34. Our Saviour could say this in truth, for His whole life upon earth was one continual, uninterrupted fulfilment of the will of His heavenly Father. For thirty years He leads a hidden life, because His Father wills it; He begins His public life, goes about, teaches, works miracles, and finally dies on the cross in unspeakable tortures and sufferings, because it is the will of His Father. Thus the human will of Christ was entirely subject to the will of God; He did everything that God willed, and in whatever manner He willed.

How gloriously do we see Him rewarded for the faithful performance of the divine will! When He came forth from the grave with a glorified body, "God hath exalted Him, and hath given Him a name which is above every name; that in the name of Jesus every knee should bow of those that are in heaven, on earth, and in hell. And that every tongue should confess that the Lord Jesus Christ is in the glory of God the Father."--Phil. 2: 9-11. What a glorious end! What a great reward!

If we consider our risen Redeemer in the State of His glory, must not we also be encouraged to do the will of God in good as well as in evil days? What does not man do to procure for himself a pleasant earthly life? What tribulations, what perils, and humiliations does he not undergo, not only for days and weeks, but for years? And we can be dilatory in doing the will of God, knowing, as we do, that if we work and suffer with Christ we shall be glorified with him?

2. To a constant warfare against the enemies of our salvation . . . .

a.)The life of Christ was a continual combat with Satan, the prince of the world. He had come to crush the serpent's head, to destroy the kingdom of Satan, to recover for us,the bright inheritance which we had lost by sin, and to redeem us from the slavery of centuries; but Satan resisted with all his might, hence a continual contest and struggle. In the desert, where he tempted our Lord three times and was overcome as often, he had found out that he alone could not prevail against Him; then he looked for confederates to help him frustrate His labor for the redemption of mankind. And he found willing tools in the Scribes and Pharisees and the Jews in general.

What did not Christ endure from them, how often did they lay snares to catch Him in His speech, how did they calumniate, blaspheme and insult Him, in order to destroy all confidence in Him ;and render Him odious to the people! They did not shrink even from brute force, for more than once were they about to lay hands on him, and to take his life.

Finally the devil entered into Judas, who betrayed his Lord and Master, and delivered Him into the hands of His enemies. Jesus dies on the cross. Hell is apparently successful; and its blind instruments exult in their triumph, believing that they have conquered and destroyed the name of Jesus for ever. But the intoxication of victory is of short duration. Easter Sunday announces a victory such as heaven and earth never before witnessed. Christ rises from the dead, glorious and immortal; the nations, from the rising of the sun to the going down of the same, adore Him; Judaism and Paganism fall, and the kingdom of Christ is spread over all the earth.

(b.) Warfare is our lot upon earth. "The life of man upon earth is a warfare, and his days are like the days of a hireling."--Job 7: 1. We carry about us a wicked enemy, our concupiscence, which prevents us reposing in God, and prepares violent temptations for us. We must fight against the devil, who, full of hatred and envy, pursues and everywhere lays snares, seeking our ruin. We live in a world which endeavors to seduce us by its false maxims, scandals, and bad examples. Especially in our days Infidels and Freethinkers do their utmost to tear religion and the fear of God out of our hearts.

Who can listen to their language, or read their papers and books, without being horrified by their hatred of Christianity? Who would not be discouraged at the aspect of the persecutions which the Catholic Church and her children are obliged to suffer? But let us not be of little faith; Christ, who crushed the head of the serpent, forsakes us not; His victory is our victory, for He has merited for us the grace to overcome every enemy. Let us gather round the banner of the cross, and no power, either of man or the devil, can harm us. And what a triumph, if we are found brave warriors! we shall enter with Him into His glory and receive a great reward, as He says Himself: "To him that overcometh, I will give to eat of the tree of life, which is in the paradise of my God."--Apoc. 2: 7.

3. Earnestly to aspire to perfection. The Resurrection of Christ is the pledge and type of our future resurrection. Christ is our head, we His members; what has been done with the head, must also be done with the members. As certain as Christ is risen, so certain shall we rise again. "If Christ be preached that he rose again from the dead, how do some among you say that there is no resurrection of the dead? But if there be no resurrection of the dead, then Christ is not risen again."--I. Cor. 15: 12, 13. Christ is also the type of our resurrection. "Our Lord Jesus Christ will reform the body of our lowness, made like to the body of His glory."--Phil. 3 : 21. The bodies of the just, therefore, after their resurrection, will resemble the body of the risen Christ; they will be finally transformed and glorified; they will become impassible, immortal, spiritual, and united with the soul, will enjoy an unsperkable felicity in heaven.

PERORATION

"Be mindful that the Lord Jesus Christ is risen from the dead."-- II. Tim. 2: 8. This truth of our holy religion is the foundation of our faith and the strongest incentive to a holy life. If you are temped against faith interiorly or exteriorly, say: "What I believe, is the doctrine of Christ, but He is risen from the dead, He is the Son of God, the infallible truth, I therefore stand firm in my faith and nothing in the world shall ever make me waver in it."

If it seems hard sometimes to walk the way of holiness, and if you must endure hard trials, falter not in your courage, look up to Christ; having finished His course, He triumphs over sin, death, and hell, now and for evermore. His infinitely blessed lot shall be ours; therefore follow Him courageously, and trusting in His grace, devote yourselves to His service to your last breath; then the blessed Easter morning will also dawn for you in heaven, where, with the Angels and Saints, you will sing an everlasting Alleluia. Amen.

†

April 17th, Easter Monday

Novena for Easter Easter Monday Paschal Time Children's Sermon for Easter Sunday The Resurrection Newly Added
Easter Sunday: We Must Rise from Sin A Litany for Easter The Spiritual Resurrection Paschal Time Litany of the Resurrection Liturgical Year: Easter Sunday Easter Sunday Sermons Eastertide Prayers Novena to St. Mark, April 17th through April 25th

O God, Who by the Paschal solemnity hast given Thy healing remedies to the world, continue, we beseech Thee, to pour forth Thy heavenly gift on Thy people, that they may deserve to attain perfect liberty, and go forward to life everlasting. Through our Lord, etc.

Easter Monday:
The Wonderful Prerogatives
of Our Lord's Glorified Body

1st Prel: Represent to yourself the glorified body of Jesus.

2d Prel: Ask for grace to comprehend the perfections of our

Lord's glorified body, and to have our share in them with Him on the great day of the Resurrection.

Point I: The Immortality and Impassibility of Our Lord's Body

Consideration.-- As soon as our Lord's soul was reunited to His body, the latter received the property of impassibility. This body, formerly subject to all human infirmities -- cold, hunger, weariness, the pains and sorrows of death -- became absolutely impassible and immortal; "Mors illi ultra non dominabitur." "Death shall no more have dominion over Him." (Rom. 6:9.)

Application.-- How had Jesus, as man, merited such glorious gifts? By His death and sufferings, endured for His Father's glory and man's salvation.. We shall receive the same gifts on the like conditions; therefore, why should we so greatly fear death? Let us sanctify our sufferings by accepting them, as well as death itself, with entire resignation to the will of our Heavenly Father, offering them up in expiation of our sins, and those of others, after the example of our Divine Lord. The more we suffer with Him, the larger our share in the wonderful perfections of His glorified body. Happy the Christian, happy the religious, who bears this in mind! How great will be his courage, how perfect his submission, under every affliction! Let us endeavor so to live that we may be of this happy number.

Affections.-- Make acts of faith in these consoling truths. Ask of God the grace to have them ever present to your mind.

Resolutions.-- In all hardship and bodily suffering, I will bear in mind these words of the Apostle: "We look for the Saviour, our Lord Jesus Christ, who will reform the body of our lowness, made like to the body of His glory." (Philip. 3 : 20, 21.)

Point II: The Spirituality and Agility of Our Lord's Glorified Body

Consideration.-- A spiritual body is one that has spiritual properties, such as the power of penetrating matter, of passing at a single act of the will from one place to another, at whatever distance; how, or in what way, we can not comprehend, much less explain. Nevertheless, such were the properties of our Lord's glorified body. He proved that He possessed them by appearing several times in the midst of the disciples, as St. John relates, although "cum fores erant clausae, propter metum Judaeorum." "The doors were shut, for fear of the Jews." (St. John 20: 19.)

Application.-- Such, again, will be the perfection of the glorified bodies of the just after the resurrection, and for all eternity in heaven. I shall one day partake of them; the hope and assurance of it are given to me by St. Paul in these words, "Seminatur corpus animale, surget corpus spirituale." "It is sown a natural body, it shall rise a spiritual body." (1. Cor. 15:44;) provided that I endeavor to live a spiritual life. "Si facta carnis mortificaveritis." "If by the spirit you mortify the deeds of the flesh, you shall live," (Rom. 8: 13,) as the Apostle St. Paul expresses it. Does my conscience testify that I have done this?

Affections.-- I will rejoice from my heart, and endeavor to animate my devotion by dwelling on these pious and consoling considerations suggested by the mysteries of the Paschal time.

Resolutions.-- I will ask myself frequently in the words of Thomas a Kempis: "To what end camest thou hither? Was it not that thou mightest become a spiritual man?" (Imit. i. Book, xxv.)

Point III: The Lucidity of Our Lord's Glorified Body

Consideration.--Those that would walk securely in the dark must provide themselves with a light. For Jesus risen there is no more darkness. His glorified body is its own light. The splendors of His divinity, flowing from His soul to His body, have made Him more radiant than the sun at noonday. The Apostles had once before seen something of this glory, on the day of His transfiguration.

Application.-- If I share the resurrection of the just, such will also be the radiance of my body; the more brilliant in proportion to the mortifications to which it has been subjected, and the labors it has endured for the glory of God and the salvation of souls.

Colloquy with God the Father. Thank Him for the privileges granted to the humanity of the Incarnate Word, our beloved Saviour. Beg of Him grace to prepare yourself for impassibility and immortality by invincible constancy in your good resolutions; for spirituality and agility by facility and promptitude in penetrating the mysteries of faith and the secrets of the spiritual life; and in fine, for lucidity by the light of good example and edification.

†

April 16th, Easter Sunday
Easter Blessings from
Catholic Harbor

Novena for Easter Children's Sermon for Easter Sunday The Resurrection Newly Added
Easter Sunday: We Must Rise from Sin A Litany for Easter The Spiritual Resurrection Paschal Time Litany of the Resurrection Liturgical Year: Easter Sunday Easter Sunday Sermons Eastertide Prayers Manner of Hearing Mass At Home: For those who on account of sickness, old age, or for other proper reasons cannot assist at holy Mass, especially on Sundays and Holidays Spiritual Communion Vol. 4 Part 2:The Resurrection and Ascension of Jesus Christ from the Latin Vulgate, as Illustrated by Catholic Artist and Historian, James Tissot, 1899 Catholic Harbor Videos for Lent and Easter

The Little Office of the Blessed Virgin Mary Holy Rosary: Joyful Mysteries Holy Rosary: Sorrowful Mysteries Holy Rosary: Glorious Mysteries

Paschal Time

Alleluia, or "Praise the Lord," is an expression of joy and hope for the eternal happiness which our Lord obtained for us by His glorious Resurrection. The Church sings Alleluia today, and often during the Octave, because Christ is risen from the grave, and as St. Augustine says, "We have left the grave of sin, and are ready to walk in the way of the divine commandments."

The Paschal Season commemorates the triumph of our Lord. It is an invitation to spiritual joy. As Christ arose from the dead so must we rise from coldness and indifference to a life of fervor and holiness. Christ offered Himself in complete holocaust on the Cross; we must offer ourselves completely to God through our risen Savior; risen with Christ, we must "seek the things that are above."

Christ promised the miracle of His Resurrection. Se fulfilled that promise, proving His Divinity and giving our faith a sure foundation. He could have ended His stay on earth with His Resurrection on Easter Sunday, but He preferred to remain among His beloved for forty days:

1. To strengthen their faith in the mystery of the Resurrection. "To them also He showed Himself alive after His Passion by many proofs, during forty days appearing to them and speaking of the kingdom of God." (Acts 1, 3.)

2. To stimulate the hope of universal resurrection as the consequence and fruit of His glorious Resurrection.

3. To console the faithful for their sorrow during His Passion and Death.

Since Christ rose from the dead, we know that He is the Son of God, His doctrine is divine. His Church is true, and we, as members of His Mystical Body, provided we are His true disciples, shall one day rise with glorified bodies. Easter is a day of gladness for all Christians, and their triumphant joy is given dramatic expression in the Sequence which follows the Gradual, the frequent alleluias, and the position of the Paschal Candle within the sanctuary throughout the Easter season.

"It is Christ Jesus Who yes, and rose again, He Who is at the right hand of God, Who also intercedes for us." Who, then, "shall separate us from the love of Christ?" (Rom. 8, 34f.)

Prayer:

O God, Who on this say, through Thy Only-begotten Son, didst overcome death, and open unto us the gate of everlasting Life: as, by Thy anticipating grace, Thou dost breath good desires into our hearts, so also, by Thy gracious help, bring them to good effect. Through the same, etc.

(Roman Breviary)

Sequence

O Christians, to the Paschal Victim bring: Of praise the sacrificial Offering. For the sheep the Lamb His Blood did shed: The sinless Christ in the sinners: stead: With God the guilty reconciling. The Life with Death did fiercely strive: Through dying the Leader now reigns alive.

O Mary, what did thy wond'ring eyes adore? "I saw the tomb of One Who dies no more! The glorious risen Lord was shown to me: The napkin, linen cloths there lying: I heard the angels testifying. Yes, Christ is ris'n and you shall see Thy Hope and mine in Galilee!"

We know that Christ rose from the grave: O conqu'ring King, us sinners save. Amen. Alleluia.

†

April 15th, Holy Saturday

Index for the Season of Lent, Prayers, Devotions, Sermons and Books Holy Saturday Meditation Holy Saturday Holy Saturday Instructions Novena for Easter 40 Days of Meditations for Lent by St. Thomas Aquinas The Holy Hour Good Friday: The Two Thieves The Passion and Death of Jesus Christ, as Illustrated by Catholic Artist and Historian, James Tissot, 1899. Vol 4 The Life of Our Savour Jesus Christ, as Illustrated by Catholic Artist and Historian, James Tissot, 1899. Vol. 3 Clock of the Passion Liturgical Commentary
for Good Friday Good Friday Sermons
by Fr. Weninger, 1876 Sermon by Bishop Ehrler:
The Greatest of All Sorrows The Death of Our Lord Passion of Christ The Greatest Suffering on Earth The Steps of Our Savior's Passion Manual of Devotions in Honour of Our Lady of Sorrows Seven Sorrows of the
Blessed Virgin Mary   I. Seven Sorrows of the
Blessed Virgin Mary   II. The Art of Dying Well by St. Robert Bellarmine

Litany of the Holy Cross Devotion to the Five
Wounds of Jesus Devotions and Litany of the Holy Face of Jesus 40 Days of Meditations for Lent by St. Thomas Aquinas The Psalter of Jesus Stations of the Cross Seven Penitential Psalms Seven Sorrows of the
Blessed Virgin Mary   I. Seven Sorrows of the
Blessed Virgin Mary   II. Spiritual Communion Litany of Penance Litany of the Saints Joyful Mysteries Sorrowful Mysteries Glorious Mysteries

Video: O Sacred Head Surrounded Video: Stabat Mater Index of the Ten Commandments

The Sacrament of Penance

Sacrament of Penance The Sacrament of Penance, All of Your Questions Answered The Conversion of Sinners Penitent's Consolation Examination of Conscience Rite of Confession General Confession Contrition The Nature of Sin Conscience Index of the Ten Commandments Sermon on Keeping the 10 Commandments The Conversion of Sinners Time is No More They that Live in Sin The Sinner Seeks God The Sinner at Death The Necessity of Prayer for Sinners Prayers and Devotions for the Holy Season of Lent The Church's Laws on Fasting and the Season of Lent

For Children

Index of Children Prayers, Lent Behold the Lamb, A Book for Little Folks About the Holy Mass, 1912 Jesus of Nazareth, the Story of His Life: A Catholic Children's Book, 1906 Catholic Bible Stories

Recommended Reading:

The Sinner's Guide by Ven. Louis of Granada, O.P. The Prodigal Son, the Sinner's Return to God St. Leonard of Port Maurice and the Stations of the Cross The Penitent Christian The Holy Ways of the Cross
by Henri Boudon, 1875 Introduction to a Devout Life
written by St. Francis De Sales

Please remember the departed souls of your family in your prayers today

Index of Prayers for the Holy Souls in Purgatory Prayers and Devotions for the Faithful Departed

Look down, we beseech Thee, O Lord, upon this Thy family: for which our Lord Jesus Christ hesitated not to be delivered up into the hands of wicked men and to undergo the torment of the Cross. Who liveth and reigneth with Thee in the unity of the Holy Ghost, one God, world without end.   Amen.

(Roman Breviary)

In early Christian times no special liturgical service was held on this day because there was a Solemn Vigil, or Watch, during the night before Easter. Towards the end of this function, before daybreak, the Catechumens received Baptism. They were immersed in the saving waters, being thus mystically buried with Jesus. But also, at the very hour of our Lord's triumphant Resurrection from the sepulchre, they rose spiritually, being born again to a life of grace; and they received likewise the sacraments of Confirmation and Holy Eucharist.

This partly explains the particular character of our Holy Saturday service, with its special Scriptural readings, the blessing of the fire, the blessing of the Font, and the sudden change from austere ceremonies to the anticipated joys of Easter.

In later times these Vigil ceremonies were anticipated, being observed first in the evening, and finally in the morning of Holy Saturday.

The Ceremonies of Holy Saturday are divided into five parts:

1. Blessing of the Fire, Incense, and Paschal candle.

2. Reading of the Prophecies.

3. Blessing of Baptismal Font--which in the Old Roman Liturgy, preceded the Baptism and Confirmation of the new converts.

4. Litany of the Saints and Mass In honor of Christ Resurrected.

5. First Vespers of Easter Sunday.

       †

April 14th, Good Friday. Day of Fast and Abstinence

Devotions for Good Friday:

The hours of twelve noon through three o'clock in the afternoon of Good Friday are most solemn, as these are the hours our Lord Jesus Christ suffered and died on the cross for our redemption. The following links are recommended for devotions and readings during these hours.

      Newly Added
Instruction for Good Friday The Holy Hour Devotions and Prayers
for Good Friday: the Words of Jesus on the Cross Good Friday: The Two Thieves Liturgical Commentary
for Good Friday Good Friday Sermons
by Fr. Weninger, 1876 Sermon by Bishop Ehrler:
The Greatest of All Sorrows The Death of Our Lord The Passion and Death of Jesus Christ, as Illustrated by Catholic Artist and Historian, James Tissot, 1899. Vol 4 The Life of Our Savour Jesus Christ, as Illustrated by Catholic Artist and Historian, James Tissot, 1899. Vol. 3 Videos for Medition During Holy Week Clock of the Passion Passion of Christ The Greatest Suffering on Earth The Steps of Our Savior's Passion Prayers and Devotions for the Holy Season of Lent The Church's Laws on Fasting and the Season of Lent Library of Catholic Books for the Season of Lent Prayers, Devotions, Feasts and Books Dedicated to Our Blessed Mother Prayers, Examination of Conscience and Related Links in Preparation for the Sacrament of Penance The Art of Dying Well by St. Robert Bellarmine

Litany of the Holy Cross Devotion to the Five
Wounds of Jesus Devotions and Litany of the Holy Face of Jesus 40 Days of Meditations for Lent by St. Thomas Aquinas The Psalter of Jesus Stations of the Cross       Newly Added
The Short Method of the
Stations of the Cross Seven Penitential Psalms Manual of Devotions in Honour of Our Lady of Sorrows Seven Sorrows of the
Blessed Virgin Mary   I. Seven Sorrows of the
Blessed Virgin Mary   II. Spiritual Communion Litany of Penance Litany of the Saints Joyful Mysteries Sorrowful Mysteries Glorious Mysteries

For Children

Index of Children Prayers, Lent Behold the Lamb, A Book for Little Folks About the Holy Mass, 1912 Jesus of Nazareth, the Story of His Life: A Catholic Children's Book, 1906 Catholic Bible Stories

Recommended Reading:

The Sinner's Guide by Ven. Louis of Granada, O.P. The Prodigal Son, the Sinner's Return to God St. Leonard of Port Maurice and the Stations of the Cross The Penitent Christian The Holy Ways of the Cross
by Henri Boudon, 1875 Introduction to a Devout Life
written by St. Francis De Sales

Please remember the departed souls of your family in your prayers today

Index of Prayers for the Holy Souls in Purgatory Prayers and Devotions for the Faithful Departed

Look down, we beseech Thee, O Lord, upon this Thy family: for which our Lord Jesus Christ hesitated not to be delivered up into the hands of wicked men and to undergo the torment of the Cross. Who liveth and reigneth with Thee in the unity of the Holy Ghost, one God, world without end.   Amen.

(Roman Breviary)

This day was formerly for the Jewish people a day of preparation for Easter, and was called by them the Passover; for Christians it is the anniversary of the death and burial of our Lord Who on this day, being Himself both hight Priest and Victim, offered Himself upon the Cross for the salvation of the world.

Because Christ died for Jews and Gentiles, the first Lesson is from the Prophet Osee and the second Lesson is from Exodus. From them we infer that by the bloody death of the immaculate Lamb Jesus we are healed of our sins, and redeemed from death.

The second part of these Ceremonies consists of the unveiling and Adoration of the Cross. In the versicles which are chanted alternately by the choir, Christ tenderly and lovingly reproaches the people who crucified Him. They are, therefore, called reproaches, words of complaint, and continue during the Veneration of the Cross by the Priest.

The third part consists of the Procession and the Mass of the Presanctified. The Sacred Host consecrated on Holy Thursday and kept in the chalice is brought by the Priest in procession from the repository to the main Altar, incensed in sign of adoration. The Mass of the Presanctified begins now with the Pater Noster and ends with the Communion.

Crux Fidelis

Faithful Cross, thou stand'st alone, None like thee in our woods is grown, None can with thy rich growth compare, Or leaves like thine, or flowers bear, Sweet wood, sweet nails, both sweet and fair, Sweet is the precious weight ye bear.

Pange Lingua

Sing, my tongue, the Savior's glory,
Of His flesh the mystery sing;
Of His Blood, all price exceeding,
Shed by our immortal King,
Destined, for the world's redemption,
From a noble womb to spring.

Of a pure and spotless Virgin
Born for us on earth below,
He, as Man, with man conversing,
Stayed, the seeds of truth to sow;
Then He closed in solemn order,
Wondrously His life of woe.

On the night of that Last Supper,
Seated with His chosen band,
He the Pascal victim eating,
First fulfills the Law's command;
Then as Food to all His brethren,
Gives Himself with His own hand.

Word-made-Flesh, the bread of nature,
By His word to Flesh He turns;
Wine into His Blood He changes;
What though sense no change discerns,
Only be the heart in earnest,
Faith her lesson quickly learns.

Down in adoration falling,
Lo! the sacred Host we hail;
Lo! o'er ancient forms departing,
Newer rites of grace prevail;
Faith for all defects supplying,
Where the feeble senses fail.

To the everlasting Father,
And the Son who reigns on high,
With the Holy Ghost proceeding
Forth from Each eternally,
Be salvation, honor, blessing,
Might and endless majesty.
Amen. Alleluia.

       †

April 13th, Maundy Thursday. Day of Fast

Grant, we beseech Thee, almighty God: that we who are continually afflicted through our excesses, may be delivered by the Passion of Thy only-begotten Son: Who liveth and reigneth with Thee in the unity of the Holy Ghost, one God, world without end.   Amen.

(Roman Breviary)

Holy Thursday Sermons
by Fr. Weninger, 1876 Liturgical Commentary:
Maundy Thursday       Newly Added
Instruction for Holy Thursday       Newly Added
Take Heed Lest You Fall The Life of Our Savour Jesus Christ, as Illustrated by Catholic Artist and Historian, James Tissot, 1891 The Holy Sacrifice of the Mass by Fr. O' Keeffe, 1891 Unworthy Communion Why the Mass is in Latin Manner of Hearing Mass At Home: For those who on account of sickness, old age, or for other proper reasons cannot assist at holy Mass, especially on Sundays and Holidays Spiritual Communion Catholic Worship, Explained The Angels in the Liturgy The Sacrament of the
Holy Eucharist God the Teacher of Mankind: The Holy Sacrifice of the Mass, 1884 The Sacrament of Holy Orders

Index for the Season of Lent The Church's Laws on Fasting and the Season of Lent The Steps of Our Savior's Passion Novena and Penitential Litany for Lent; The Prodigal Son Prayers and Devotions for the Holy Season of Lent Litany of Penance Manual of Devotions in Honour of Our Lady of Sorrows 40 Days of Meditations for Lent by St. Thomas Aquinas Passion of Christ Clock of the Passion The Holy Hour The Psalter of Jesus       Newly Added
The Short Method of the
Stations of the Cross Stations of the Cross

Index of Children Prayers, Lent Behold the Lamb, A Book for Little Folks About the Holy Mass, 1912 Jesus of Nazareth, the Story of His Life: A Catholic Children's Book, 1906 Catholic Bible Stories

Index of Prayers for the Holy Souls in Purgatory The Triumph of the Blessed Sacrament or Exorcism of Nicola Aubry, by Fr. Michael Muller To fight against Satan, The Medal or Cross of St. Benedict, by Prosper Gueranger

Holy Thursday:

The Mass today commemorates the institution of the Holy Eucharist and the Ordination of the Apostles. On this day only one Mass may be celebrated in each church at which two Hosts are consecrated, one of which is borne in procession to the Altar of Repose and placed in the repository to be used on the following day at the Mass of the Presanctified.

During the Mass, the Church lays aside for a moment the penitential purple, and assumes festive white vestments. The Altar is decorated and the Gloria is sung. The ringing of bells ceases after the Gloria until Holy Saturday, and after Vespers the Altars are stripped.

The Mandatum or Washing of the Feet takes place on this day because our Lord washed the feet of His Apostles before the institution of the Holy Eucharist from which this feast derives its name and most characteristic feature.

Meditation by:
St. Alphonsus De Ligouri

The Last Supper of Jesus

Jesus knowing that his hour was come to pass out of this world to the father; having loved his own who were in the world, he loved them unto the end. Knowing that the time of his death and departure from this world was come, and having hitherto loved men even to excess, he wished to give them the last and the greatest proof of his love. Behold him seated at table, all on fire with charity, turning to his disciples and saying, With desire I have desired to eat this Pasch with you? My disciples (and he then said the same to us all), know that I have desired nothing during my whole life but to eat this last supper with you; for after it I shall go to sacrifice my life for your salvation.

Then, O my Jesus, dost Thou desire so ardently to give Thy life for us, Thy miserable creatures? Ah! this Thy desire inflames our hearts with a desire to suffer and die for the love of Thee, since Thou dost condescend to suffer and die for the love of us. O beloved Redeemer, make known to us what Thou willest from us: we are willing to please Thee in all things. We sigh to give Thee pleasure, to correspond at least in part to Thy great love for us. Increase always more and more this blessed flame within us: may it make us forget the world and ourselves, that from this day forward we may think only of pleasing Thy enamored heart.

He riseth from supper, and layeth aside His garments, and having taken a towel girded Himself. After that He putteth water into a basin. and began to wash the feet of the disciples, and to wipe them with the towel wherewith He was girded? My soul, behold thy Jesus, rising from the table, laying aside his garments, taking a white cloth and girding himself with it; he afterwards puts water into a basin, kneels down before his disciples, add begins to wash their feet. Then the sovereign of the universe, the only-begotten of God, humbles himself so as to wash the feet of his creatures. O angels, what do you say? It would have been a great favor if Jesus Christ had permitted them, as he did Magdalene, to wash his divine feet with their tears. But no; he wished to place himself at the feet of his servants in order to leave us at the end of his life this great example of humility, and this proof of the great love that he bears to men.

And, O Lord, shall we be always so proud as not to be able to bear a word of contempt, or the smallest inattention, without instantly feeling resentment, and thinking of seeking revenge, after we had by our sins deserved to be trampled on by the devils in hell? Ah, my Jesus, Thy example has rendered humiliations and insults amiable to us. I purpose henceforth to bear every injury and affront for the love of Thee.

Institution of the Sacrament of Holy Communion

And whilst they were at supper, Jesus took bread and blessed and broke it, and gave to His disciples and said. Take ye and eat, this is My body. After the washing of the feet, an act of humility the practice of which Jesus recommended to his disciples, he took his garments, and, sitting down again to table, wished to give men the last proof of the tender love that he had for them, and that was the institution of the Most Holy Sacrament of the altar

He took for that purpose bread, consecrated it, broke it, and gave it to his disciples, saying. "Take and eat, this is my body." He then recommended them as often as they should communicate to remember the death which he suffered for their sake. As often as you shall eat this bread . . . you shall show the death of the Lord. Jesus Christ did then, what a dying prince who tenderly loved his spouse would do: he selects among all his gems and jewels the most beautiful and costly; he then calls his spouse and says to her, O my dear spouse, I am going to die; and, that thou mayest not forget me, I leave thee this gem as a memorial of me: when thou dost look at it, remember me and the love I have borne thee.

"No tongue," says St. Peter of Alcantara, in his meditations, "is able to express the greatness of the love which Jesus bears to every soul. Hence, that his absence might not be an occasion of forgetting Him, He left, before his departure from this world, to His spouse this Most Holy Sacrament, in which He Himself remained, wishing that between them there should be no other pledge than Himself to keep alive the remembrance of Him." We may then imagine how pleasing it is to Jesus Christ that we remember His Passion, since He has instituted the sacrament of the altar, that we may preserve a continual remembrance of the immense love which He has shown us in his death.

O my Jesus, O God enamored of souls! Has Thy affection for men enraptured Thee to such a degree as to make Thyself their food? Tell me what more remains for Thee to do in order to oblige us to love Thee? In . the Holy Communion Thou givest Thyself to us entirely and without reserve: it is then but just that we give our whole being unreservedly to Thee. I wish to be all Thine, I wish to love nothing but Thee, my God. Thou hast said that he who eats Thy flesh lives only for Thee. He that eateth Me, the same also shall live by Me. Since then Thou hast so often permitted me to eat Thy flesh, make me die to myself that I may live only for Thee, only to serve Thee, and give Thee pleasure. My Jesus, I wish to fix all my affections in Thee: assist me to be faithful to Thee.

St. Paul remarks the time in which Jesus Christ instituted this great sacrament, and says, The Lord Jesus, the same night in which He was betrayed, took bread, and giving thanks, broke, and said. Take ye and eat: this is My body. O God, on the very night in which men were preparing to put him to death, the loving Redeemer prepared for us this bread of life and of love to unite us entirely to himself, as he declared when he said, He that eateth My flesh abideth in Me, and I in him.

O love of my soul, worthy of infinite love! Thou canst not give greater proofs of Thy affection and tender love for me. Ah, draw me entirely to Thyself: if I know not how to give Thee my whole heart, take it Thou to Thyself. Ah, my Jesus, when shall I be all Thine, as Thou dost make Thyself all mine when I receive Thee in this sacrament of love? Ah, enlighten me, and unfold to me always more and more Thy amiable qualities, which render Thee so worthy of love, that I may be always more and more enamored of Thee, and may be wholly employed in pleasing Thee. I love Thee, O my sovereign good, my joy, my love, my all.

†

April 12th, Wednesday of Holy Week. Day of Fast

      Newly Added
The Short Method of the
Stations of the Cross The Life of Our Savour Jesus Christ, as Illustrated by Catholic Artist and Historian, James Tissot, 1891 Wednesday in Holy Week Prayers Honoring the Passion and Death of Jesus Passion-tide and Holy Week Jesus of Nazareth, the Story of His Life: A Catholic Children's Book, 1906 The Prodigal Son, the Sinner's Return to God Stabat Mater Video

Index for the Season of Lent 40 Days of Meditations for Lent by St. Thomas Aquinas Index of Children Prayers, Lent Novena and Penitential Litany for Lent; The Prodigal Son Clock of the Passion The Psalter of Jesus Seven Penitential Psalms The Steps of Our Savior's Passion Litany of the Passion Novena and Penitential Litany for Lent; The Prodigal Son Manual of Devotions in Honour of Our Lady of Sorrows Seven Sorrows of the
Blessed Virgin Mary   I. Seven Sorrows of the
Blessed Virgin Mary   II. Index of Prayers for the Holy Souls in Purgatory Prayers and Devotions for the Holy Season of Lent The Church's Laws on Fasting and the Season of Lent

The Art of Dying Well
by St. Robert Bellarmine Index of Prayers and
Devotions for the Dying Index of Prayers and
Devotions for the Sick Index of Prayers for the Holy Souls in Purgatory The Sacrament of
Extreme Unction Death General Judgement Heaven Hell The Thought of Eternity The fewness of those saved. Will you be one of them? Spiritual Communion

The Little Office of the Blessed Virgin Mary Joyful Mysteries Sorrowful Mysteries Glorious Mysteries

The Salvation of the Soul
by St. Alphonsus Liguori

We read in the history of the Church, that formerly many holy penitents, impressed with the belief of the nothingness of every thing earthly, and the importance of eternal truths, withdrew into solitary places, that they might give themselves up without distraction to the meditation of these holy truths. Separated from each other, and buried in gloomy caverns, as if already in their graves, they occupied themselves only with such thoughts as these:--that death is certain;-- that no man knows when, where, or how he will die? and that any moment may be the last of our life;-- that at the moment when a man dies, he is judged by God, and must give an exact account of all his thoughts, words, and deeds, which alone, of all he has, will follow him into the next world;--that after this life, which passes so quickly, comes eternity, which has no end, and which will be forever blessed, or forever miserable --that we come into this world only to work out our salvation, ard if we fail in this, we cannot make good our loss in sterility;--that one mortal sin--alone is enough to make us eternally miserable, and that sin is the only real evil, the only misfortune that we have to fear.

Penetrated by these solemn thoughts, they watched through whole nights, fasted, wore hair cloth, and used every instrument of penance to bring the body into subjection to the soul. They lived on roots and herbs or at best, on bread., moistened with their tears. Pale and emaciated, like living skeletons, they passed through a life which seemed more like a slow death, and after twenty, thirty, or forty years thus spent, having reached the end of their course, they asked each other, trembling and full of holy fear, with broken accents: "Think you, ah! think you, that God will have mercy on my soul, and will forgive my sins? Do you really think that there will be any consolation for me in death? that the Eternal Judge will soften the rigor of His judgment against me? Can I hope to escape the terrors of an eternity of misery, and share in the bliss of the elect?"

What dispositions! "What an example! But also, what a condemnation, perhaps, for us! Let us weigh this well. For if God does not call us to such extraordinary things, to which men are drawn only by a peculiar and powerful grace, we are all, without exception, called to a spirit of penance, without which, there is no salvation; for eternal wisdom has said: "Except ye do Penancc, ye shall all likewise perish." (St. Luke, xiii.) We are called, first, to seek the kingdom of God, not to give our heart to the world, to mortify the body, subject it to the control of the spirit, and work out our salvation with fear and trembling. But why are we doing nothing of all this? These holy penitents, at whose life we wonder so much, had they another gospel to follow than ours, another religion to practise than we? Had they not the same God to serve, the same eternity to hope for or to fear? What, then, is the cause of so singular a difference? These saints possessed a degree of faith which we have not. And, therefore, they were careful to secure the salvation of their souls, while we neglect ours. They constantly meditated upon the greatness of God, the enormity of sin, the uncertainty of life, the fearful depths of divine judgment, an eternity of happiness or misery, approaching nearer at every moment; and we!--how much we fear to occupy ourselves with these high and holy subjects. In a word, they lived like saints, and we live like worldly-minded sinners.

Let us think of these things while there is yet time. What are we to expect, if we refuse to consider? What a consolation will it one day be to us, that we have reflected on these things! Let us occupy ourselves with them now, that in eternity, where these great truths will hurst upon our minds with irresistible force, we may not despair, but rather may reap the eternal fruit of these salutary meditations.

A person who had passed his life in the service of an excellent prince, fell dangerously ill. His master, who loved him very much, visited him, and found him in great danger. There he lay, in his agony, just ready to breathe his last. Moved by this spectacle, the prince said to him: Can I do any thing for you? Ask freely whatever you wish, and do not fear that I shall refuse you any thing. My Lord! said the dying man, I know only one thing which, in my present condition, I would like to ask of you. Prolong my life for one quarter of an hour! Alas! said the prince, that is not in my power. Ask for something else; something that I can procure for you. See! said the dying man, for fifty years I have served this master of mine, and now he cannot prolong my life for one quarter of an hour. O! if I had only served my God as well, he would grant me not a quarter of an hour only, but a whole eternity of happiness! Very soon after that, he breathed his last.

Shall we not, by and by, have the same fate ? We wear and wear ourselves out in the service of the world; we even sacrifice ourselves for it, and when our last hour comes, what will the world do for us, and what will remain to us after all we have done for it, if we have neglected the service of God, and the salvation of our soul? Let us consider this, and more sincereiy and firmly than ever before, say: I am resolved to save my soul, and for this I will labor the remainder of my life! Hitherto I have neglected this too much! Have I not reason to look upon it as a great favor, that God still gives me the time and the grace to meditate seriously on these things?

       †

April 11th: St. Leo I, Pope, Confessor and Doctor of the Church. Tuesday in Holy Week. Day of Fast

St. Leo I. Pope, Confessor, and Doctor of the Church Newly Added
The Short Method of the
Stations of the Cross Tuesday in Holy Week Prayers Honoring the Passion and Death of Jesus Passion-tide and Holy Week Index of Prayers for the Holy Souls in Purgatory Index for the Season of Lent 40 Days of Meditations for Lent by St. Thomas Aquinas Index of Children Prayers, Lent Novena and Penitential Litany for Lent; The Prodigal Son Clock of the Passion Litany of the Holy Cross The Psalter of Jesus The Steps of Our Savior's Passion Novena and Penitential Litany for Lent; The Prodigal Son Index of Prayers for the Holy Souls in Purgatory Prayers and Devotions for the Holy Season of Lent The Church's Laws on Fasting and the Season of Lent The Little Office of the Blessed Virgin Mary Joyful Mysteries Sorrowful Mysteries Glorious Mysteries

Grant unto us, we beseech Thee, O merciful God, that through the intercession of Thy Confessor, holy Isidore, the Farmer, we may take no pride in knowledge but rather by his merits and example, we may always serve thee with a humility that is pleasing to Thee. Through our Lord, etc.

(Roman Breviary)

†

April 10th, Monday in Holy Week

Monday in Holy Week Passion-tide and Holy Week The Penitent Christian Vol. 3: Holy Week and the Passion of Jesus Christ from the Latin Vulgate, as Illustrated by Catholic Artist and Historian, James Tissot, 1899 Clock of the Passion with Meditations from St. Alphonsus Liguori Stations of the Cross The Psalter of Jesus Index of Prayers and Devotions for the Season of Lent 40 Days of Meditations for Lent by St. Thomas Aquinas Index of Prayers for the Holy Souls in Purgatory Prayers and Devotions for the Holy Season of Lent The Church's Laws on Fasting and the Season of Lent Index of Children Prayers:
the Season of Lent Jesus of Nazareth, the Story of His Life: A Catholic Children's Book, 1906 Novena and Penitential Litany for Lent; The Prodigal Son Contrition Prayers and Devotions for the Dying

JESUS UNJUSTLY CONDEMNED--HIS RESIGNATION

1st Prel. Consider Jesus, "who delivered Himself to him that judged Him unjustly."

2nd Prel. Ask for victory over, your passions.

Point I: "Pilate saith to them, . . . . . Shall I crucify your King? The chief priests answered, We have no king but Caesar. Then, therefore, he delivered Him to them for to be crucified." (St. John 19: 15, 16.)

Consideration: Never did judge pronounce a more unjust sentence; for He that was condemned as the worst of malefactors had been four times publicly proclaimed innocent. How did it happen that Pilate, naturally right-minded and well-intentioned, descended to such cowardly wickedness? We know the reason; from the beginning he lacked energy and resolution to oppose the popular fury; for he was aware that "for envy they had delivered Him." (St. Matt. 27: 18.)

Application: Nothing is more to be dreaded than the first giving way to passion; generally, the first false step paves the way for others, and brings us only too often to a point from which we should formerly have shrunk with horror. Thus we learn how men once distinguished for their qualities of heart and mind, even religious who were long the edification of their brethren, have fallen into heresy, apostacy, and even infidelity. They merely yielded in the beginning to some slight temptation of wounded self-love or sensuality; but in the end they were blinded by passion, and became its victims.

Affections: Thank God who has mercifully preserved you from falling a victim to those passions which you have so often flattered, where you should rather have struggled against them energetically.

Resolutions: To oppose courageously the first attacks of passion, according to the proverb, "Principiis obsta." "Resist from the beginning."

Point II: "And Pilate, taking water, washed his hands before the people, saying, I am innocent of the blood of this just man. Look you to it. And the whole people answering, said, His blood be upon us, and upon our children." (St. Matt. 27:24, 25.)

Consideration: When those charged with the maintenance of law and order fail in their duty, the consequences are usually as fatal to their subordinates as to themselves. We have a proof of this here: if Pilate, when convinced of our Lord's innocence, had censured His enemies as they deserved, and given Him back justified to the affection of the people, these last would have had no part in the guilt of the chief priests, nor would they have uttered that fearful imprecation, which, during more than eighteen centuries, has hung over their race: "His blood be upon us, and upon our children."

Resolutions: When humbled by reproof, I will say, with the holy King David: "Bonum mihi, quia humiliasti me." "It is good for me that Thou hast humbled me." (Psalm 118: 71.)

Point III: "And they took Jesus, and led Him forth, and, bearing His own cross, He went forth to that place which is called Calvary." (St. John 19: 16, 17.)

Consideration: St. Peter speaks of the perfect submission with which Jesus accepted His unjust sentence. "Tradebat autem judicanti se injuste." "He delivered Himself to him that judged Him unjustly." (1. Peter 2:23.) That is, He looked on it as imposed by His Father in expiation of the sins of the world. God makes use of the malice or the mistakes of men to accomplish His designs, and in expiation of the sins of the world. The design of God here was the reparation of His glory and the redemption of mankind by the death of His Divine Son. And it was this that our Lord had ardently desired from the first moment of His Incarnation: judge, therefore, of the joy and eagerness with which He laid the heavy cross upon His shoulders.

Application: Our Lord here teaches us how to meet the persecution and ill-treatment of wicked men, and how we should receive the humiliations, or even the punishments, that our superiors may inflict upon us by mistake. How has it been with you in such instances? If you have Jesus always before your eyes, nothing will seem difficult; all your glory and happiness will be in bearing the cross after Him.

Colloquy with Jesus, the Model and King of martyrs.

†

April 9th, Palm Sunday

Palm Sunday I. Palm Sunday II. Palm Sunday:
Epistle and Gospel Passion-tide and Holy Week Children's Sermon for Palm Sunday Our Redeemer & Messiah Vol. 3: Holy Week and the Passion of Jesus Christ from the Latin Vulgate, as Illustrated by Catholic Artist and Historian, James Tissot, 1899 Manner of Hearing Mass At Home: For those who on account of sickness, old age, or for other proper reasons cannot assist at holy Mass, especially on Sundays and Holidays Spiritual Communion Clock of the Passion with Meditations from St. Alphonsus Liguori The Psalter of Jesus Index of Prayers and Devotions for the Season of Lent 40 Days of Meditations for Lent by St. Thomas Aquinas Index of Prayers for the Holy Souls in Purgatory Prayers and Devotions for the Holy Season of Lent The Church's Laws on Fasting and the Season of Lent Index of Children Prayers:
the Season of Lent Jesus of Nazareth, the Story of His Life: A Catholic Children's Book, 1906 Novena and Penitential Litany for Lent; The Prodigal Son Contrition Prayers and Devotions for the Dying

Almighty, everlasting God, Who didst cause our Savior to take upon Him our flesh, and to suffer death upon the Cross, that all mankind should imitate the example of His humility; mercifully grant that we may deserve both to keep in mind the lessons of His patience, and also to be made partakers of His resurrection. Through our Lord Jesus Christ, Thy Son, Who liveth and reigneth with Thee in the unity of the Holy Ghost, one God, world without end. Amen.

Ant. The Lord God is my helper, and therefore I am not confounded.

They surrounded me; on all sides thy surrounded me: but in the name of the Lord I will be avenged on them.

Judge my cause: defend me, for Thou art mighty, O Lord.

With the angels and with the children may we be found faithful, singing to Him who triumphed over death: Hosanna in the hightest.

Let them be confounded that persecute me, but let me not be confounded, O Lord, my God. (Roman Breviary)

In today's liturgy the twofold point of view from which the Church regards the Cross is expressed in two ceremonies, one marked by joy and the other by sadness. First comes the Blessing and Procession of Palms in which everything overflows with a holy joy which enables us after nineteen centuries to revive the spirit of the magnificent scene of our Lord's triumphal entry into Jerusalem. Then follows the Mass whose chants and lessons relate exclusively to the sorrowful memory of our Redeemer's Passion.

The Blessing of palms takes place at St. Mary Major which in Rome represents Bethlehem, the birthplace of Him whom the Magi hailed as "King of the Jews." Thence the procession goes to St. John Lateran, in which church in former times the Station took place since, by its dedication to St. Saviour, it calls up memories of the Passion which is the subject of today's Mass".

The Redeemer's triumph must be preceded by His humiliation "even to the death of the cross" (Ep.), which is to serve as a model for us, that "instructed by His patience", we may "partake in His Resurrection".

Explanation of the Passion according to the four Evangelists

Events preceding the Passion

Towards evening on the Tuesday in Holy Week, after leaving the Temple, our Lord ascended the mount of Olives; "You know" He said to His disciples, "that after two days shall be the Pasch, and the Son of Man shall be delivered up to be crucified." Now among the Jews the days are reckoned to begin on the previous evening; Wednesday had already begun and it was on the following Friday that our Lord was put to death. The Passover corresponded with the full moon of the Spring equinox since it was then that the Hebrews left Egypt. In the hurry of their departure they had no time to prepare unleavened bread, in memory of which fact the Jews abstained from leavened bread throughout this Feast.

The Last Supper in the Cenacle

When the Evangelists speak of the "First day of the Azymes" they mean Thursday evening, that is, in the Jewish reckoning, the beginning of Friday. It was on Thursday that Peter and John were sent by the Master to prepare the supper in the "upper room" of a certain house and there at the fall of evening, that is, during the first watch lasting until nine o'clock, our Lord went with His disciples. They reclined round the table in eastern fashion on low couches, the left hand supported on cushions, so that John, on our Lord's right, could easily rest his head on the Master's breast. During the meal, taking one of the great cakes of unleavened bread, about eight inches across and very thin, our Lord changed it into His Body, uttering the Eucharistic prayer or grace, just as the father of the family was accustomed to do when eating the Passover lamb, he thanked almighty God for having delivered Israel from her captivity.

And then, after supper, when there still remained one more cup to drink, He changed it in the same way into His Blood, using the same words by which Moses had sealed the Old Covenant made in the blood of creatures: "This is the blood of the covenant which the Lord hath made with you, to which our Lord added two words: This is my Blood of the New Testament". It was when speaking of the Passover, the centre of the whole religious life of the Jewish people, that the great Lawgiver of Israel said: "You shall keep it a feast to the Lord in your generations with an everlasting observance. "In the same way our Redeemer commanded the Apostles, "and therefore" adds the Council of Trent," all their successors in the priesthood, to consecrate in the same way this bread and cup of wine in memory of Him".

For the lamb sacrificed for more than fifteen hundred years by the children of Israel is substituted the Lamb of God which will be sacrificed by us to the end of the world, and the Mass, which is identified with the Passover and Calvary, becomes the religious centre of all Christian people.

Our Lord's last discourse -- Gethsemane

The Supper over, Jesus uttered the sublime discourse which is the last testament of His love, the second part of it being spoken while He was on His way from the Cenacle to leave the city. Passing through the gate which stood not far from the Pool of Siloam, He traversed the valley of Cedron, by the suburb of Ophel, to enter the Garden of Gethsemane, at the foot of the Mount of Olives. The three apostles who had been witnesses of His Transfiguration were here also as part-witnesses of His thrice renewed agony, and Judas, who had sold his Master for thirty pieces of silver, came with the captain and soldiers of a Roman cohort accompanied by guards commanded by Temple police, sent by the Sanhedrim. In the depth of night they entered Jerusalem with our Lord, climbing the slopes to the north east of the city and went straight to the palace of the High Priests.

Ecclesiastical Trial before Annas and Caiaphas

Here the ecclesiastical trial was about to take place since it pertained to the Jewish religious authorities to examine Jesus on what they called His assumed title of the Son of God. The Sanhedrin consisted of seventy members, at the head of which were the chief priests and their supreme head the High Priest, which office Annas had succeeded in obtaining for his five sons in succession, and then in the year of our Lord's death for his son-in-law, Caiaphas. Faithless to their mission, these official representatives of the Jewish religion no longer looked for any Messias other than a warrior king who should deliver them by main force from the Roman yoke.

Our Lord was at first taken before Annas, the father-in-law as we have seen of the High Priest, but since he was no longer in office it was beyond his competence to judge our Lord when He appeared before him. The affair had been mismanaged and had to be referred to the tribunal of the real High Priest, Caiaphas. He awaited Jesus, in another wing of the Palace, seated, according to custom, with legs crossed, on a slightly raised platform. Around him on the ground, on cushions set in the form of a semicircle, were grouped the other priests. The proceedings were illegal because while they should have taken place in the day-time with witnesses present, it was actually two o'clock in the morning, and such witnesses as there were detected in flagrant imposture.

Then Joseph Caiphas, overpowered by rage, solemnly called upon our Lord to tell him if He were the Christ, a measure quite contrary to the Roman Law which in such a case invalidates the confession of the accused; and our Lord who had waited for this moment before speaking, formally declared His Divinity before the Jewish religious authority in full council assembled. They then found Him worthy of death, a sentence which He accepted since it was precisely His character as Son of God which enabled Him to give an infinite value to the sacrifice which He was about to offer to God the Father for His brethren, the sons of men.

The servants of the High Priest -- Saint Peter -- Judas

Our Lord was then given over to the mockeries of the High Priest's servants who, uttering blasphemies, covered Him with spittle. It was during this night that Peter, who had followed Jesus afar off, was brought by John into the High Priest's palace where he denied his Master three times, and after the cock had crowed for the second time, he went out from the palace, and as the Greek text implies, "he wept with a loud voice, with sobs". Towards morning the Sanhedrin met again in order to give some semblance of legality to its sentence which according to law, had to be passed in the day-time. Our Lord appeared before the court and having declared Himself the Son of God was condemned afresh.

Judas now understood the magnitude of his crime, and being consumed with remorse approached the Council of Priests which was still sitting and confessed that he had "sinned in betraying innocent blood". Then the traitor seized with despair, threw down the pieces of silver in the Temple and going out to the pool of Siloam, lost himself in the deep valley through which flows the mountain stream of Hinnom. In this narrow place known as the Gehenna (Ge-Hinnom) "he hanged himself" and "burst asunder in the midst and all his bowels gushed out".

The Civil Trial before Pilate

But it was Rome, of whom Palestine was at that time a dependency, that had the sole power of life and death. It was necessary to refer a case of this kind to the Roman Procurator and our Lord was taken to the Judgment Hall of Pontius Pilate, in the fortress of Antonia. Here the Jews did not enter, since in the house of a pagan they would have contracted legal defilement, at this time of the Passover Feast.

Our Lord's civil trial was, in its turn, about to commence. But before this new tribunal a political charge was a necessity. In the Jewish view the Messias was to be an earthly monarch, so they accused Jesus, who said that He was the Messias, of being a rival king to Caesar.

On this new ground was reproduced, point by point, the same procedure as that of the night before, the same silence of our Lord in the face of false witnesses, the same formal assertion of His spiritual kingship before the pagan world, represented this time by those who actually held the world power; the same ill-treatment by subordinates, in this case the Roman soldiery. Our Lord, who in reality guided the whole proceeding, would be condemned only as the Son of God and King of souls. He put the question again on religious ground, when He said: "My kingdom is not of this world."

This was to remove the matter from Pilate's province, and he, up to the very end, declared our Lord perfectly innocent. The Jews then had recourse to intimidation, and Pilate who was too much of a coward to use his authority in the teeth of a mob who would avenge itself by accusing him in high places, looked round for means to safeguard his own interests without altogether ignoring the protests of some remnant of conscience, informed as it was by pagan superstition, which vaguely feared the chastisement of the gods.

Herod -- Pilate -- Barabbas -- The Scourging

As a first expedient, Pilate learning that Jesus was a Galilean, despatched him to Herod the Tetrarch of Galilee. This was the son of Herod the Great who had ordered the massacre of the innocents when the Magi announced that the "King of the Jews" had not long been born. Mortif��0�2ed by our Lord's silence, he sought in his turn to humble the Jews by clothing Jesus in the white robe worn by those who laid claim to that royalty which they denied Him.

Pilate's second plan was to propose the exchange with Barabbas. This attempt to establish a parallel between Christ and a murderer met with no better success. His third scheme was to order our blessed Lord to be scourged. This was a shameful punishment reserved only for slaves. The culprit, stripped of his garments, had his hands tied to the iron ring attached to a low pillar, while the executioner armed with a scourge of supple thongs with bone tips, with calculated deliberation lashed with it the back of his victim, bent and taut. The thongs bending pliantly about the body passed from shoulder to breast, ploughing deep furrows from which, while the blood gushed forth, pieces of flesh fell away.

In this state our blessed Lord was brought forth to the mob, wearing His crown of thorns and with a reed for His sceptre. The irony of the scene was not lost on the Jews. How dare they pretend any longer to see Caesar's rival in such a king?

The condemnation of Jesus

They reject Him, therefore, with contempt, on His claim to be the Son of God which was to be the sole cause of His death, and Pilate, shaken by the decisive argument "We will denounce you to Caesar", thinks about finding a last expedient to quiet his conscience. By the symbolic act of washing his hands he shows the Jews that, before his tribunal, Jesus is innocent and that he gives Him up to them only because of their claim that He is condemned by their laws. In this declaration he persisted up to the very last moment when he caused to be attached to the Cross an inscription in three languages, pointing out according to custom, the ground on which the prisoner was condemned. It bore these words: "Jesus of Nazareth, the King of the Jews."

Pilate, in his cowardice was guilty of homicide but the Jews in their hatred attacked the Son of God and were the murderers of God Himself.

The Way of the Cross The Crucifixion The Last Agony

At about eleven o'clock, our Lord leaves the Judgment hall of Pilate. The sorrowful way of the Cross begins with the path which leads down into the valley of Tyropoeon and traverses towards the east a steep slope leading up to the gates of the city itself. There, outside the walls, was Mount Golgotha, the spot where executions generally took place, and here in the midst of the intense darkness which reigned from noon until three o'clock and which was noted everywhere in the Roman Empire, our blessed Lord underwent His last torments.

Death on the cross was the most cruel and terrible of tortures, for the victim necessarily compelled to remain in one position, had for several hours to support the whole weight of his body on his out stretched arms. The horrible tension thus inflicted, congested the blood at the face and neck, causing intolerable pain of which the chief feature was a burning thirst. To die by crucifixion was to die of pain alone, in anguish of the most agonizing kind.

Towards evening it was the custom to hasten death by breaking the sufferer's legs, the feet being a little more than three feet above the ground.

Jesus' Death and Burial

Then came the decisive moment which was to mark the hour of redemption for the human race. Our blessed Lord is about to sign as with a seal, the seal of His Blood, all the acts of His life that they may become redemptive in character. Further, to show that it is not by constraint but through love for His Father and for men that He allows death to work its will upon Him, He utters a loud cry and expires. Our Divine Redeemer is dead. With Mary His Mother and with St. John let us remain at the foot of the Cross, and like the handful of Jews who were converted at this moment, strike our breasts, since it is to make satisfaction for our sins that He has offered His life to God.

It was about three o'clock in the afternoon. About five o'clock our Lord was taken down from the Cross and buried in haste since the Sabbath, this week "a great Sabbath Day", began at six. As a matter of fact it coincides with the 15th. Nisan, the most important day of the Passover, thus perfectly symbolizing the rest into which our Lord had entered for ever.

The Jews had no cemetery but were accustomed to prepare a monument on their own property, often on both sides of the high road. Joseph, who came from Arimathea, a Judean town, had Jesus laid in the sepulchre which he had made for himself and which stood in a garden near the scene of our Redeemer's death; while Nicodemus brought about "an hundred pound weight of myrrh and aloes" with which to embalm Him provisionally. They then closed the sepulchre with a great stone, shaped like a millstone, which could only be moved with the greatest difficulty. This done the holy women returned to the city where they bought spices, intending to complete our Lord's burial with greater care after the Sabbath rest. The next day, Saturday, the Jews sealed the tomb and placed guards there.

Let it be our joy today to repeat with our Lord the Communion prayer: "Father, if this chalice may not pass away, but I must drink it, Thy will be done."

†

April 8th, Ferial Day of Fast

Novena of the Most Precious Blood of Jesus, March 31st through April 8th 40 Days of Meditations for Lent by St. Thomas Aquinas Index for the Season of Lent and Passion-tide. A Resource Center of Prayers, Devotions, Books and Sermons. All related links to the Sacrament of Penance, Marriage, the Blessed Virgin Mary and the Saints. Index of Children Prayers, Lent Lenten Novena in Honor of Christ Crucified and Penitential Litany for Lent Prayers and Devotions for the Holy Season of Lent Litany of the Holy Cross Clock of the Passion The Psalter of Jesus Seven Penitential Psalms Index of Prayers and
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Related links for the Sacrament of Penance

The Sacrament of Penance, All of Your Questions Answered Examination of Conscience Rite of Confession General Confession Contrition: Explanation of Perfect Contrition and the Necessity of Contrition for Forgiveness of Sins The Idolatry of the Creature Due to Impurity The Vice of Lust: The Folly of Impure Desires of Sensual Pleasures Sacrament of Penance The Necessity of Avoiding Occasions of Sin
by St. Alphonsus Liguori Contrition and the Purpose of Amendment
by St. Alphonsus Liguori Contrition The False Peace of a Sinful Conscience, by Fr. Hunolt, 1691-1746 Render an Account of Your Life: A Must Read for Every Soul The Conversion of Sinners Penitent's Consolation The Nature of Sin Conscience Index of the Ten Commandments Sermon on Keeping the 10 Commandments The Conversion of Sinners The Necessity of Prayer for Sinners

THE LAST EXAMINATION OF JESUS AND THE WEAK TIMIDITY OF PILATE

lst Prel. Look at the meek but resolute countenance of Jesus as He stands before the faint-hearted and cowardly judge and the infuriated people.

2nd Prel. Beg for grace never to give way to any fear but the fear of God.

Point I: "He ought to die, because He made Himself" the Son of God. When Pilate therefore had heard this saying, he feared the more." (St. John 19:7, 8.)

Consideration: This last accusation of the Jews. "He made Himself the Son of God," far from creating a belief in His guilt in the mind of the judge, only made him believe the mysterious truth, and filled him with fear. The words and demeanor of our Lord had already made him suspect His Divinity, not with that certainty which faith gives to us, but with such a conviction as a pagan could feel. Was it not natural that he should henceforth fear the vengeance of God?

Application: Pilate was astonished and terrified at the thought that he might perhaps be standing in the presence of God, and about to commit a grievous crime against Him. He dared not take a single step further in the matter without inquiring into the truth of the assertion. And what have we done, who know and firmly believe that we are always in the presence of God, who searches the inmost recesses of our hearts? We have not been afraid to insult Him, to commit iniquity in His sight, to defy His terrors, even with the awful examples before us of His punishments.

Affections: Astonishment at the consideration of our rashness and blind folly.

Resolutions: I will strive with greater diligence than ever to walk in the presence of God, and attend to the inspirations of conscience.

Point II: ''And he entered into the hall again, and he said to Jesus, Whence art Thou? But Jesus gave him no answer. Pilate therefore saith to Him, Speakest Thou not to me? Knowest Thou not that I have power to crucify Thee, and I have power to release Thee? Jesus answered, Thou shouldst not have any power against me, unless it were given thee from above; therefore he that hath delivered me to thee hath the greater sin." (St. John 19:9-11.)

Consideration: Pilate's question was not about the birthplace of our Lord, for that he already knew, but concerning His descent and genealogy. But he was not worthy to be taught the wonderful mystery of our Lord's eternal being and His Incarnation; such truths are revealed only to the pure and humble. Our Lord therefore only rebuked the arrogance of the infidel judge, by reminding him that he had no power save from God, and warned him with wonderful gentleness against the crime he was about to commit;

Application: Why does not God speak to you? Why does He give you so little of His divine light? It is because you are not prepared to listen to Him--because, by constant infidelity to grace, you lose the power God has given you of discerning between good and evil.

Affections: I will pray humbly for light to see what reason I have to reproach myself on these heads, and for grace to amend.

Resolutions: Prepare your heart for prayer by humility and contrition, united with great confidence in God.

Point III: "And from thenceforth Pilate sought to release Him. But the Jews cried out. saying, If thou release this man, thou art not Caesar's friend; for whosoever maketh himself a king speaketh against Caesar." (St. John 19:12.)

Consideration: This last threat of the Jews put an end to the struggle that had been going on in the breast of the cowardly governor. The fear of offending a mortal prince prevailed over his reason, over justice, the warnings of conscience, and even the fear of drawing down Divine vengeance. His head was confused, his heart fainted within him, and he hastened to deliver up Jesus to death.

Application: There is no one who does not detest the criminal cowardice of Pilate; and yet in these days there are a great many Christians who give up their sacred obligations from human respect. Let us give thanks to God for having withdrawn us from the world, where human respect and self-interest exercise a sway so tyrannical that many fall victims to them.

Colloquy with the Mother of our Lord, who, we may suppose, was aware of the plans laid against the reputation and the life of her Divine Son.

†

April 7th, Seven Dolors of the Blessed Virgin Mary and First Friday. Day of Fast and Abstinence.

First Friday Devotions Seven Sorrows of the
Blessed Virgin Mary   I. Seven Sorrows of the
Blessed Virgin Mary   II. Our Lady of Sorrows Novena of the Seven Sorrows,
March 30th through April 7th Novena of the Most Precious Blood of Jesus, March 31st through April 8th Manual of Devotions in Honour of Our Lady of Sorrows Sorrowful Mysteries 30 Days Prayer to the
Blessed Virgin Mary Stabat Mater Video Spiritual Communion The Life of the Blessed Virgin Mary as Set Forth in Her Titles from the Litany of Loreto The Christian Mother Litany of the Holy Cross Stations of the Cross The Holy Ways of the Cross
by Henri Boudon, 1875 The Seven Holy Founders St. Gabriel of Our Lady of Sorrows

40 Days of Meditations for Lent by St. Thomas Aquinas Index for the Season of Lent Index of Children Prayers, Lent Index of Prayers for the Holy Souls in Purgatory Novena and Penitential Litany for Lent; The Prodigal Son The Psalter of Jesus The Steps of Our Savior's Passion Seven Penitential Psalms Prayers and Devotions for the Holy Season of Lent The Church's Laws on Fasting and the Season of Lent

The Little Office of the Blessed Virgin Mary Joyful Mysteries Sorrowful Mysteries Glorious Mysteries

O God, at whose Passion, as foretold by Simeon, a sword of sorrow pierced the most sweet soul of glorious Mary, Virgin and Mother: grant in Thy mercy, that we who reverently call to mind her anguish and suffering, may be helped by the glorious merits and prayers of all the saints who faithfully stand at Thy Cross, and win the happy fruit of Thy Passion: Who liveth and reigneth with Thee in the unity of the Holy Ghost, one God, world without end.   Amen.

(Roman Breviary)

Eve when placed by the hand of God in a garden of delights, received but one precept to be obeyed so as to be forever happy--a precept easy of accomplishment, the non-observance whereof should needs be inexcusable, inasmuch as neither urgent want nor strong inclination led to its violation; there was conjoined, moreover, the assurance of death following inevitably upon the transgression of the precept. But the serpent, kindling with jealousy and hate, came to tempt her. She gazed on the forbidden fruit, gathered thereof, and carried it to her husband, and together they ate, incurring the fatal loss, and involving mankind in their downfall. Mary, preceded by the God made man, went toiling with Him up the arid steep of Calvary, in order to accomplish the most heart-rending of all sacrifices.

Eve had rebelled: Mary surrendered her will. Eve had yielded to the enticing voice of the tempter; Mary heard the voice of the same demon of jealousy and hate, uttering by the mouth of the impious Jews blasphemies and maledictions, but she was not frightened from her purpose. Eve, in her disobedience, stretched forth her hand toward the tree of the knowledge of good and evil; Mary, in her submission to the designs of God, stretches forth hers to the tree of the cross. Eve had sacrificed to her caprice the spouse through whom she had received being; Mary assists at the sacrifice of the Son to Whom she has given being. Eve was born of man without the agency of a mother; Mary gave birth to the Man-God without the intervention of a spouse. Eve, after her disobedience, became the mother, in the order of nature, of a race accursed; Mary, through her submission, has become, in the order of grace, the Mother of a race sanctified.

These points of resemblance and contrast offer themselves spontaneously to the mind, provided we ponder somewhat over the remembrance celebrated by the Church on the Friday in Holy Week, under the title of "The Seven Dolors of the Blessed Virgin." A mother's heart can alone comprehend the agony of torture endured by this Mother at the foot of the cross whereon her Son was immolated; we do not attempt to describe, nor are any mere human lips, indeed, able to express it.

Reflection.--Let us adore this divine and mysterious abyss of charity, in whose depth our salvation was worked out at the price of so much suffering; and let us bear in mind what we have cost that Mother to whose guardianship we were made over even from the sublime height of the cross.

       †

April 6th, Ferial Day of Fast.

Newly Added
Reflections on: the Terrors of Death; the Assaults of Satan at the Hour of Death; the Apparition of the Spirits of Darkness; the Fear of Hell; the Judment

40 Days of Meditations for Lent by St. Thomas Aquinas Index for the Season of Lent and Passion-tide. A Resource Center of Prayers, Devotions, Books and Sermons. All related links to the Sacrament of Penance, Marriage, the Blessed Virgin Mary and the Saints. Index of Children Prayers, Lent Lenten Novena in Honor of Christ Crucified and Penitential Litany for Lent Prayers and Devotions for the Holy Season of Lent Litany of the Holy Cross Clock of the Passion The Psalter of Jesus Seven Penitential Psalms Index of Prayers and
Devotions for the Sick The Church's Laws on Fasting and the Season of Lent

Novena of the Seven Sorrows,
March 30th through April 7th Novena of the Most Precious Blood of Jesus, March 31st through April 8th

April Meditations on Humility The Little Office of the Blessed Virgin Mary Holy Rosary: Joyful Mysteries Holy Rosary: Sorrowful Mysteries Holy Rosary: Glorious Mysteries

ON JESUS CROWNED WITH THORNS AND LOADED WITH IGNOMINY

1st Prel. Behold our blessed Lord sitting on a block of wood holding a reed in His hand. His head crowned with thorns, and insulted by the guards of the Roman governor.

2nd Prel. Beg for feelings of deep grief and compunction.

Point I: THE INSULTS WHICH PRECEDED THE CROWNING WITH THORNS

Consideration: The fearful sufferings of our Lord's scourging were followed by insults not less cruel. Pilate's soldiers, who had led Him to the court of Herod, were anxious that these insults should exceed those offered to Him there. He had there been treated as a fool; they would now crown Him as a fool, as the king of fools; as says holy writ, "taking Jesus into the hall, gathered together unto Him the whole band, and stripping Him, they put a scarlet cloak about Him, and platting a crown of thorns, they put it upon His head, and a reed in His right hand. And bowing the knee before Him, they mocked Him, saying, Hail, King of the Jews! And spitting on Him, they took the reed and struck His head, and they gave Him blows." (St. Matt. 27: 27-30; St. John 19: 3.)

Application: If we carefully think over all the details, and even every word of this narrative, written under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit, we shall see how truly the prophet Jeremias had foretold of the Messiah, "Satiabitur opprobriis." "He shall be filled with reproaches." (Lament. 3 : 30.) If we then ask ourselves, Who is it that is thus treated? for what reason? our hearts will surely burn with love.

Affections: Astonishment, compassion, love. Humble yourself in considering your sensitiveness. Desire to share in the insults endured for you by your Divine Saviour.

Resolutions: Renew your determination to aim at acquiring the third degree of humility.

Point II: THE TERRIBLE PAIN OF THE CROWNING WITH THORNS

Consideration: "And platting a crown of thorns, they put it on His head." They not only placed it on His head, but pressed it in, by striking Him on the head with a reed, as the Evangelist tells us. Conceive, if possible, the sufferings our Lord then endured. Why did He not sink beneath this additional torment, following so rapidly upon His scourging? Did He work a miracle to blunt the edge of His sufferings? No; but He exerted His miraculous power that He might not sink under sufferings which would have caused His death; so that no one else might ever suffer as He had done. And all this was for love of me!

Application: It was the will of our Divine Lord that His head, which had escaped the scourging, should also bear its distinct punishment, that He might expiate our sins of thought--the many thoughts and desires of vanity, pride, ambition, rebellion, hatred, vengeance, impurity, and injustice with which the heads of men are filled, when they lose the recollection of the presence and justice of God.

Affections: Let us compassionate the cruel sufferings of Jesus, tortured for love of us, and ask His pardon for having contributed, by our sinful thoughts and intentions, to His sufferings.

Resolutions: To aim at greater recollection, in order the better to watch over our thoughts and restrain their wanderings.

†

April 5th, St. Vincent Ferrer, Confessor. Day of Fast.

St. Vincent Ferrer I. St. Vincent Ferrer II. Prayers for the Preservation of Chastity. An Explanation and Defense of the Virtue of Chastity

St. Vincent Ferrer, his life, Spiritual Teaching, and Practical Devotion

40 Days of Meditations for Lent by St. Thomas Aquinas Index for the Season of Lent and Passion-tide. A Resource Center of Prayers, Devotions, Books and Sermons. All related links to the Sacrament of Penance, Marriage, the Blessed Virgin Mary and the Saints. Index of Children Prayers, Lent Lenten Novena in Honor of Christ Crucified and Penitential Litany for Lent Prayers and Devotions for the Holy Season of Lent Litany of the Holy Cross Clock of the Passion The Psalter of Jesus Seven Penitential Psalms Index of Prayers and
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Novena to St. Vincent Ferrer,
March 28th through April 5th Novena of the Seven Sorrows,
March 30th through April 7th Novena of the Most Precious Blood of Jesus, March 31st through April 8th

April Meditations on Humility The Little Office of the Blessed Virgin Mary Holy Rosary: Joyful Mysteries Holy Rosary: Sorrowful Mysteries Holy Rosary: Glorious Mysteries

O God, who didst vouchsafe to make Thy Church illustrious by the merits and preaching of blessed Vincent Thy Confessor: grant to us Thy servants, that we may be instructed by his example, and through his intercession may be delivered from all harm. Through our Lord, etc.

V. The Lord loved him, and adorned him.

R. He clothed him with a robe of glory.

Ant. I will liken him to a wise man who built his house upon a rock. (Roman Breviary)

This wonderful apostle, the Angel of the Judgment, was born at Valencia in Spain in 1357. At the age of eighteen, he was professed in the Order of Saint Dominic. After a brilliant course of study he became Master of Sacred Theology, and began to preach. For three years he read only the Sacred Scriptures, and came to know the entire Bible by heart. He brought the light of Christ to the Jews of Valencia, and their synagogue became a church.

Grief at the great schism then afflicting the Church reduced him to the point of death at the age of forty, but Our Lord Himself whom he saw in glory, healed him and bade him go forth to convert sinners, for My judgment is near. In the language of Scripture, a judgment is a time of trial during which the good become better by prayer and abandonment to God's Providence, and the impious blaspheme. The judgment which was to fall upon Europe, the rending of the robe of Christ through the still greater fragmentation of the Church, would follow soon after Saint Vincent's time; his passage preserved large numbers of souls from its fatal dangers.

This virtually miraculous apostolate lasted twenty-one years. He preached throughout western Europe, in the towns and villages of Spain, Switzerland, France, Italy, England, Ireland, Scotland. Everywhere tens of thousands of sinners were reformed. Infidels, heretics, Jews were enlightened and warmed by the Sun of Justice. Stupendous miracles enforced his words. Twice each day the miracle bell summoned the sick, the blind, the lame to be cured, and the most obdurate sinners became Saints. Speaking only his native Spanish, he was understood in all tongues. Processions of ten thousand penitents followed him in perfect order. Convents, orphanages, hospitals, arose where he passed.

Amid all the honors which came to him, his humility remained profound, his prayer constant. He always made prayer his principal preparation for preaching. Once, however, when a person of high rank was to be present at his sermon, he neglected prayer for study. The nobleman was not particularly struck by the discourse which had been thus carefully laid out. But he came again to hear the Saint, and the second sermon, for which Saint Vincent's supplications before the Crucifix were the preparation, made a deep impression on his soul. When Saint Vincent heard of his reaction, he remarked that in the first sermon it was Vincent who had preached, but in the second, Jesus Christ.

Saint Vincent fell ill at Vannes in Brittany, and received the crown of everlasting glory in 1419.

Reflection. Whatever you do, said Saint Vincent, think not of yourself, but of God. In this spirit he preached, and God spoke by him; in this spirit, if we listen, we shall hear the voice of God.

†

April 4th, St. Isidore, Bishop, Confessor, and Doctor of the Church. Day of Fast

St. Isidore, Bishop, Confessor, and Doctor of the Church What Cannot and What Can Be Reformed in the Church. What Every Christian Must Believe and Do to be Saved. 40 Days of Meditations for Lent by St. Thomas Aquinas Index for the Season of Lent and Passion-tide. A Resource Center of Prayers, Devotions, Books and Sermons. All related links to the Sacrament of Penance, Marriage, the Blessed Virgin Mary and the Saints. Index of Children Prayers, Lent Lenten Novena in Honor of Christ Crucified and Penitential Litany for Lent Prayers and Devotions for the Holy Season of Lent Litany of the Holy Cross Clock of the Passion The Psalter of Jesus Seven Penitential Psalms Index of Prayers and
Devotions for the Sick The Church's Laws on Fasting and the Season of Lent

Novena to St. Vincent Ferrer,
March 28th through April 5th Novena of the Seven Sorrows,
March 30th through April 7th Novena of the Most Precious Blood of Jesus, March 31st through April 8th

April Meditations on Humility The Little Office of the Blessed Virgin Mary Holy Rosary: Joyful Mysteries Holy Rosary: Sorrowful Mysteries Holy Rosary: Glorious Mysteries

O God, Who didst give blessed Isidore to be a minister of eternal salvation to Thy people: grant, we beseech Thee, that we who have had him on earth as Teacher of life, may be worthy to have him for advocate in heaven. Through our Lord, etc.

(Roman Breviary)

Saint Isidore was born of a ducal family, at Carthagena in Spain. His two brothers, Leander, Archbishop of Seville, Fulgentius, Bishop of Ecija, and his sister Florentina, are all recognized by the Church as Saints. As a boy Isidore despaired over his poor success in study, and ran away from school. Resting in his flight at a roadside spring, he observed a stone, which had been hollowed out by the slow but constant dripping of water. This lesson decided him to return, and then, by determined application, he succeeded.

He went back to his master and with the help of God became, even as a youth, one of the most learned men of the time. He assisted in converting Prince Recared, the leader of the Arian party; and with his aid, though at the constant peril of his own life, expelled that heresy from Spain. Then, following a call from God, he turned a deaf ear to the entreaties of his friends, and embraced a hermit's life. Prince Recared and many of the nobles and clergy of Seville went to persuade him to come back, representing the needs of the times and the good he could do, and had already done, among the people. He refused, and, as far as we can judge, his retreat gave him the necessary opportunity of acquiring the virtue and power which afterwards made him an illustrious Bishop and Doctor of the Church.

On the death of his brother Leander, he was called to fill the vacant see. As a teacher, ruler, founder, and reformer, he labored not only in his own diocese, but throughout Spain, and his influence attained foreign countries. He died in Seville on April 4, 639, and within sixteen years of his death was declared a Doctor of the Catholic Church.

Reflection. The strength of temptation usually lies in the fact that its object is something flattering to our pride, soothing to our sloth, or in some way attractive to the baser passions. Saint Isidore teaches us to listen neither to the promptings of nature nor the plausible advice of friends, when they contradict the voice of God.

†

April 3rd, Ferial Day of Fast.

Render an Account of Your Life: A Must Read for Every Soul 40 Days of Meditations for Lent by St. Thomas Aquinas Index for the Season of Lent and Passion-tide. A Resource Center of Prayers, Devotions, Books and Sermons. All related links to the Sacrament of Penance, Marriage, the Blessed Virgin Mary and the Saints. Index of Children Prayers, Lent Lenten Novena in Honor of Christ Crucified and Penitential Litany for Lent Prayers and Devotions for the Holy Season of Lent Litany of the Holy Cross Clock of the Passion The Psalter of Jesus Seven Penitential Psalms Index of Prayers and
Devotions for the Sick The Church's Laws on Fasting and the Season of Lent

Novena to St. Vincent Ferrer,
March 28th through April 5th Novena of the Seven Sorrows,
March 30th through April 7th Novena of the Most Precious Blood of Jesus, March 31st through April 8th

April Meditations on Humility The Little Office of the Blessed Virgin Mary Holy Rosary: Joyful Mysteries Holy Rosary: Sorrowful Mysteries Holy Rosary: Glorious Mysteries

THE SCOURGING OF JESUS CHRIST

1st Prel. Behold our Lord Jesus Christ bound to the pillar.

2nd Prel. Let us beg for the grace of making our meditations on our Lord's sufferings as fruitful as those of so many holy souls.

Point I: THE PREPARATION FOR THE SCOURGING

Consideration: "Pilate took Jesus, and scourged Him." (St. John 19: 1.) Our innocent Lord heard Himself sentenced to the humiliation and suffering of scourging. He was dragged to the place of punishment. He saw the preparations for it; and He felt all its horror by anticipation. How terrible must this fear and horror have been to His sensitive nature! But He never wavered in His purpose of bearing all for us, and He went resolutely forward.

Application: How differently do we act! How often do we not only waver, but actually shrink back from carrying out our resolutions! And only because we are terrified by the anticipation (which generally exaggerates matters) of the trouble or suffering they would cost us; for instance, rising at the proper time in all seasons, doing such or such an act of penance or mortification, keeping to a certain position in prayer, or faithfully fulfilling a particular duty. Is not this true?

Affections: Yes, my Saviour, I confess with shame that fear alone has often withheld me from the combat.

Resolutions: I will henceforth distrust my imagination which is always a bad guide where there is question of conquering natural inclinations. I will consult duty alone, and go steadily onward.

Point II: The Suffering Of The Scourging

Consideration: The horror of this punishment is beyond the power of words to describe: but in order to realize it as far as possible, imagine yourself undergoing it: imagine your clothes torn off, yourself bound to the pillar, while strong men, armed some with whips, some with straps, some with cords, and iron spikes, scourge you till their arms drop with fatigue, until your body is but one wound, your flesh torn, and the ground covered with your blood. Then, perhaps, you may form some idea of the suffering of that scourging which your Divine Saviour endured for you.

Application: In all your troubles, whether of mind or body, fix your eyes on Jesus your King, bound to the pillar; the sight of Him will make all your sufferings seem light, and you will bear them with courage and with love.

Affections: Compassion, love, gratitude, desire to suffer for and with Jesus.

Resolutions: I will endeavor to put in practice the precept of the Apostle, " I beseech you, therefore, brethren, by the mercy of God, that you present your bodies a living sacrifice," perpetually immolated through labor and mortification. (Rom. 12: 1.)

Point III: THE MOTIVES FOR THE SCOURGING

Consideration: It was a cruel and cowardly expedient on Pilate's part to appease the people and to save Jesus from death. Our Lord bore it from His heroic love for us. He gave up His body into the hands of the executioners, that He might expiate, in His innocent flesh, the shameful and countless sins with which men of all ages and conditions have degraded, and do daily degrade, their bodies; sins by which they dishonor and trample under their feet the image of God, in whose likeness they were created.

Application: Had I but once grievously offended against holy purity, I ought to say to myself, Here is my work! It is I who, by the hands of the executioners, have torn the body of Jesus, who have covered it with blood and wounds; and besides this, the memory of my frequent acts of self-indulgence ought to be sufficient to produce in me a deep compunction, a contempt of myself, and an ardent desire to labor and suffer much for the love of Him to whom I cause such bitter sufferings.

Colloquy with Jesus bound to the pillar. Renew the Affections of the first and second Points. Offer yourself as a victim of expiation. Renew your good resolutions.

†

April 2nd, Passion Sunday and St. Francis of Paola

St. Francis of Paula, Confessor Passion Sunday,
Sermon and Litany Fifth Sunday of Lent:
Epistle and Gospel Passion Sunday: God Abandons the Incorrigible Sinner The Obdurate Sinner Children's Sermon for Passion Sunday Manner of Hearing Mass At Home: For those who on account of sickness, old age, or for other proper reasons cannot assist at holy Mass, especially on Sundays and Holidays Spiritual Communion

40 Days of Meditations for Lent by St. Thomas Aquinas Index for the Season of Lent and Passion-tide. A Resource Center of Prayers, Devotions, Books and Sermons. All related links to the Sacrament of Penance, Marriage, the Blessed Virgin Mary and the Saints. Index of Children Prayers, Lent Lenten Novena in Honor of Christ Crucified and Penitential Litany for Lent Prayers and Devotions for the Holy Season of Lent Litany of the Holy Cross Clock of the Passion The Psalter of Jesus Seven Penitential Psalms Index of Prayers and
Devotions for the Sick The Church's Laws on Fasting and the Season of Lent

Novena to St. Vincent Ferrer,
March 28th through April 5th Novena of the Seven Sorrows,
March 30th through April 7th Novena of the Most Precious Blood of Jesus, March 31st through April 8th

April Meditations on Humility The Little Office of the Blessed Virgin Mary Holy Rosary: Joyful Mysteries Holy Rosary: Sorrowful Mysteries Holy Rosary: Glorious Mysteries

Passiontide: from Passion Sunday to Holy Saturday

The Mass of Passion Sunday is full of the thought of the Passion of Jesus and of the infidelity of the Jews, whose place in the Kingdom of God was taken by those who were baptized, that is to say by the Christians.

Passion Sunday

The Crucifix over the main altar is veiled today. Think it over in amazement! Jesus is obliged to hid Himself when "humanity 'stones' Divinity" (Gospel). The Jewish synagogue makes its final decision to ignore the miracles, the doctirne, and the sinless life of Christ, even though all these were prophesied in their own Old Testament. Due to stiff-necked pride and hard-hearted materialism, their part of the covenant had become a dead letter. Jesus makes a terrifying analysis of them: "Your are not of God." In the EPISTLE, St. Paul indicates how the Hight Priest of the Old Testament offered the blood sacrifices of victim goats, an offering which acknowleged that man deserves to be done away with for trying to do away with God by sinful rebellion. He now beholds the Altar of Calvary, where Jesus, Eternal High Priest, sheds His precious Blood to "cleanse our conscience" and "to serve the living God." Let us not "stone" Christ or cause Him to hide Himself.

"We are not unaware," says St. Leo, "that among all Christian celebrations the Paschal mystery holds the first place. Our manner of living throughout the whole year, by reforming our ways, ought to give us the dispositions for keeping it worthily and in a fitting manner. These present days which we know to be close to that most sublime sacrament of divine mercy, require devotion in a yet higher degree" (Second Nocturn).

The mystery of which St. Leo speaks, is our Redeemer's Passion, whose anniversary is close at hand. Priest and Mediator of the New Testament, Jesus will soon ascend His Cross, and the blood which He will shed He will offer to His Father, entering into the Holies which is heaven itself (Epistle). The Church sings: "All hail, thou Mystery adored! Hail, Cross! on which the Life Himself died, and by death our life restored!" (Hymn of Vespers). The Eucharist is the memorial of this boundless love of God for men for when instituting it our Lord said: "This is my Body which shall be delivered for you; this chalice is the new testament in My Blood. Do this... in commemoration of Me" (Communion).

What is the response of man to all these divine favours? "His own received Him not," says St. John, speaking of the welcome which the Jews gave Jesus. "For good they rendered Him evil and prepared for Him nothing but insults. "You", our Lord told them, "dishonour me," and in fact, the Gospel shows us the ever growing hatred of the Sanhedrin.

Abraham, the father of God's people, firmly believed the divine promises which heralded the future Messia; and in Limbo his soul, which, as believing was beyond the reach of eternal death, rejoiced to see these promises fulfilled in the coming of Christ.

But the Jews, who ought to have recognized in Jesus the Son of God, greater than Abraham and the prophets, because eternal, misunderstood the meaning of His words, insulted Him by treating Him as a blasphemer and possessed, and tried to stone Him (Gospel). And God tells Him, in the person of Jeremias: "Be not afraid at their presence: for I am with thee to deliver thee, saith the Lord... For behold I have made thee this day a fortified city and a pillar of iron and a wall of brass, over all the land, to the kings of Juda, to the princes thereof and to the priests and to the people of the land. And they shall fight against thee and shall not prevail: for I am with thee, saith the Lord, to deliver thee" (First Nocturn).

"I seek not my own glory," says Jesus, "there is one that seeketh and judgeth" (Gospel). And by the mouth of the psalmist He goes on: "Judge me, O God, and plead my cause against an ungodly nation: O deliver me from the unjust and deceitful man. This "lying" people our Lord declares to be the Jews. The psalmist continues: "Deliver me, O Lord, from my enemies... from the unjust man Thou wilt deliver me" (Gradual).

"The Lord who is just will cut the necks of sinners" (Tract). God will not permit men to lay their hands on Jesus until His hour is come (Gospel), and when that hour of sacriflce came, He snatched His Son from the hands of evil men by raising Him from the death. This death and resurrection had been foretold by the prophets and typified in Isaac when, on the point of being sacrified at God's command by Abraham his father he was restored to life by almighty God, his place being taken by a ram who became a type of the Lamb of God, offered in man's stead (c. p. 257). Thus our Lord, in His first coming, was to be humbled and made to suffer; not until later will He appear in all His power.

But the Jews, blinded by their passions, could appreciate only one kind of coming, a coming in triumph, and so scandalized by the Cross of Christ, they rejected Him. In their turn, almighty God rejected them, while graciously receiving those who put their trust in the redemption of Jesus Christ, uniting their sufferings to His. "Rightly, and under the guidance of the Holy Ghost," says St. Leo, "did the holy Apostles institute these days of more rigorous fasting, so that by a common sharing in the Cross of Christ, even we ourselves may do something towards uniting ourselves with the work that He has accomplished for us. As St. Paul says: "If we suffer with Him, we also shall be glorified with Him." Where we find our Lord's sufferings being shared, there we can look on the attainment of the happiness promised by Him as a thing safe and assured."

Today's station is in the Basilica of Saint Peter, raised on the site of Nero's circus where the prince of the Apostles died, like His Divine Master on a cross. In recalling our Lord's Passion, the anniversary of which draws near, let us remember that if we are to experience its saving effects we must, like the Master, know how to suffer persecution for justice sake. And when as members of God's family, we are persecuted with and like our Lord, let us ask of God, that we may be "governed in body" and "kept in mind".

†

April 1st, First Saturday.
Day of Fast.

First Saturday Devotions The Art of Dying Well
by St. Robert Bellarmine Index of Prayers and
Devotions for the Dying Index of Prayers and
Devotions for the Sick Index of Prayers for the Holy Souls in Purgatory The Sacrament of
Extreme Unction Death General Judgement Heaven Hell The Thought of Eternity The fewness of those saved. Will you be one of them? Spiritual Communion

Novena of the Most Precious Blood of Jesus, March 31st through April 8th Novena to St. Vincent Ferrer,
March 28th through April 5th Novena of the Seven Sorrows,
March 30th through April 7th

Index for the Season of Lent and Passion-tide. A Resource Center of Prayers, Devotions, Books and Sermons. All related links to the Sacrament of Penance, Marriage, the Blessed Virgin Mary and the Saints. Index of Children Prayers The Practice of Lent, by Prosper Gueranger 40 Days of Meditations for Lent by St. Thomas Aquinas The Steps of Our Savior's Passion Stations of the Cross The Psalter of Jesus Devotion to the Five Wounds of Jesus Prayers and Devotions for the Holy Season of Lent Index of Prayers for the Holy Souls in Purgatory The Church's Laws on Fasting and the Season of Lent The Necessity of Mortification

The Little Office of the Blessed Virgin Mary Joyful Mysteries Sorrowful Mysteries Glorious Mysteries

Related links for the Sacrament of Penance

The Idolatry of the Creature Due to Impurity The Vice of Lust: The Folly of Impure Desires of Sensual Pleasures Sacrament of Penance The Sacrament of Penance, All of Your Questions Answered Examination of Conscience Rite of Confession General Confession The Necessity of Avoiding Occasions of Sin
by St. Alphonsus Liguori Contrition and the Purpose of Amendment
by St. Alphonsus Liguori Contrition The False Peace of a Sinful Conscience, by Fr. Hunolt, 1691-1746 Render an Account of Your Life: A Must Read for Every Soul The Conversion of Sinners Penitent's Consolation The Nature of Sin Conscience Index of the Ten Commandments Sermon on Keeping the 10 Commandments The Conversion of Sinners The Necessity of Prayer for Sinners

HOW GOD BRINGS BACK SOULS

Do you know how the rule of St. Francis of Assissi proceeds to make a man a saint? It takes a man and takes from him everything he has, and putting a bag on his back and a cord around his neck, tells him, Go now; you shall be so unhappy on earth that you will be obliged to go to heaven.

It is thus that God is sometimes obliged to treat certain souls, to whom, nevertheless, he has given every facility for walking in the path to heaven. Poor souls, to whom the earth was very bright, too bright for their souls, and who, in answer to God's appeals, ever replied, Later, my God, and who would have ended by gradually wasting all the love God had given them, and which God asked of them.

To bring back these souls God gradually takes from them joys of heart. They lose the love which formerly surrounded them, and they feel that it is through their own fault. They have been sustained, applauded, encouraged, and they find themselves neglected, distrusted, despised, and for no apparent reason.

God allows them to fall into imprudences, and these imprudences, committed innocently and exaggerated through malice, jealousy, or even imprudent zeal, cause them to be severely condemned, and gradually friends fall off, until she who was formerly so beloved suddenly finds herself deserted and knows not where to turn for sympathy. Oh, who can tell the pain, the suffering, the anguish of these souls unfaithful to God's call?

God also takes from her joys of mind. Her path is bright and clear before her, she goes through life careless and happy, when suddenly clouds obscure her path, all is dark, trouble invades her soul, she becomes the victim of doubt and scruples, she believes herself a burden to those about her, she imagines that those in whom she was wont to trust repel her, and fearing to ask counsel, and not daring to act without guidance, she finds herself alone in a pathless, dark, and sunless desert. Oh, again who shall say the fear, the terror, which overwhelm these poor souls unfaithful to God's call?

Then in one of those hours bordering on despair the soul whom God has thus gradually impoverished, and who is on the point of yielding to murmurs, hears a voice which penetrates her more deeply than the fire penetrates the wood which it consumes--God's voice, which the soul understands, and, overcome by hunger and thirst, that hunger of soul and thirst of heart a thousand times more terrible than any other, she says, I will rise and go to my Father! And she goes to her Father, to her God who awaits her, who clasps her in His arms, and for all reproach murmurs, Why hast thou tarried, my child? My God! My God! How great are Thy love and tenderness! And how shall eternity suffice to thank Thee!

†

March 31st, Ferial Day of Fast. Friday after the 4th Sunday of Lent, the Precious Blood.

Importance of Salvation and the Feast of the Most Precious Blood The Seven Sheddings of the Precious Blood 7 Sheddings of Our Lord's Blood--Against the Seven Deadly Sins
Novena of the Most Precious Blood of Jesus, March 31st through April 8th Novena to St. Vincent Ferrer,
March 28th through April 5th Novena of the Seven Sorrows,
March 30th through April 7th

Index for the Season of Lent and Passion-tide. A Resource Center of Prayers, Devotions, Books and Sermons. All related links to the Sacrament of Penance, Marriage, the Blessed Virgin Mary and the Saints. Index of Children Prayers The Practice of Lent, by Prosper Gueranger 40 Days of Meditations for Lent by St. Thomas Aquinas The Steps of Our Savior's Passion Stations of the Cross The Psalter of Jesus Devotion to the Five Wounds of Jesus Prayers and Devotions for the Holy Season of Lent Index of Prayers for the Holy Souls in Purgatory The Church's Laws on Fasting and the Season of Lent The Necessity of Mortification

The Little Office of the Blessed Virgin Mary Joyful Mysteries Sorrowful Mysteries Glorious Mysteries

Reflection for the 4th
Week of Lent

by Fr. Athanasius, O.F.M.

The things our Lord said on that occasion were no doubt impressive enough. Easter was not far off. The hour of His suffering and our redemption was at hand. In preparation for Easter you too should harbor serious thoughts. Meditate once again upon the Last Things. Are you afraid to die? Do you perhaps foolishly play ostrich at the thought? It will avail you nothing. Your turn will come. "It is appointed unto men once to die" (Heb. 9, 27). Look about you in nature. The changing seasons speak to you in unmistakable terms. The spring of your life is going, if not gone; presently you shall have the summer of your maturity, the autumn of senility, and the winter of the grave. Look about you in your parish! Your own cemetery, the bells of your church are ready for your funeral service, any time. Look at your watch! Some 150,000 people are said to die every twenty-four hours. Nearly two every time your watch ticks. One of those ticks will be your last. For you time shall be no more.

When will Brother Death take your arm for the dance into eternity? You do not know. Our Lord Himself has called your attention to this uncertainty, repeatedly: "You do not know the day nor the hour. At an hour when you do not expect it, the Son of man will come. The Son of man shall come like a thief of the night." The papers tell you of great numbers who are taken unawares every day. And you know that many of your confreres have died a sudden death. Are you immune from the lot of sudden death? And death will decide your fate. For all the long ages of eternity. It will be Heaven or Hell. No other alternative! Either: Beati mortui qui in Domino moriuntur (Apoc. 14, 13).Or: Mors peccatorum pessima (Ps. 33, 22).

Today your fate is still in your hands. "Man shall go into the house of his eternity" (Eccles. 12, 5). Let the warning of the Holy Ghost constantly resound in your ears: "Give charge concerning thy house, for thou shalt die" (4 Kings 20, 1). Prepare by keeping your books and files in perfect order. Prepare by paying all your bills and honest debts.Prepare by keeping your distance from mortal sin. Prepare by praying devoutly for the grace of a happy death--particularly to St. Joseph, the patron of the dying. "Blessed are those servants whom the Lord, when he cometh, shall find watching" (Lk. 12,37).

†

March 30th, Ferial Day of Fast.

How Catholics lose the Faith by Fr. Michael Muller Part 2: Sinners will not Believe in the Divine Threats until the Chastisement has come upon Them Newly Added Catholic Book
Fear of Divine Justice Novena to St. Vincent Ferrer,
March 28th through April 5th Novena of the Seven Sorrows,
March 30th through April 7th

Index for the Season of Lent and Passion-tide. A Resource Center of Prayers, Devotions, Books and Sermons. All related links to the Sacrament of Penance, Marriage, the Blessed Virgin Mary and the Saints. Index of Children Prayers The Practice of Lent, by Prosper Gueranger 40 Days of Meditations for Lent by St. Thomas Aquinas Stations of the Cross The Psalter of Jesus Devotion to the Five Wounds of Jesus Prayers and Devotions for the Holy Season of Lent Index of Prayers for the Holy Souls in Purgatory The Church's Laws on Fasting and the Season of Lent The Necessity of Mortification

The Little Office of the Blessed Virgin Mary Joyful Mysteries Sorrowful Mysteries Glorious Mysteries

On the moment of death

by St. Alphonsus Liguori

O Moment, on which depends eternity!" Oh! how much depends on the last moment of our lives, on our last breath! either an eternity of delights, or an eternity of torments; a life of happiness or a life of misery. What folly therefore must it be for the sake of a wretched momentary pleasure in this life to run the risk of making an evil end, and commencing a life of misery, which will never terminate! O God! what will become of me in the last moment of my life? O Jesus, who didst die for my salvation, suffer me not to be lost for ever, suffer me not to lose Thee, my only good.

Oh God! how do those miserable criminals who are condemned to cast lots for their lives tremble when they throw the dice, upon the cast of which depends their life or death. Tell me Christian, if thou wert in such a situation, how much thou wouldst give to be liberated from it? But faith teaches thee that thou wilt one day arrive at that last moment, on which will depend thy eternal life or death. Thou wilt then say: "Alas I must now be either happy forever with God, or in despair for ever without Him." No, my God, I will not lose Thee; if I have hitherto forfeited Thy friendship, I am sorry for it and sincerely repent of it; I will never lose Thee more.

Either we believe, or we do not believe. And if we believe that there is an eternity, that we can die only once, and that if we die ill, the consequences will be eternal, without the least hope of remedy; why do we not resolve to separate ourselves from all danger of being lost, and to use all the means in our power to secure for ourselves a happy death? No security can be too great when eternity is at stake. The days of our lives are so many favours from God, by which He allows us time to prepare our accounts against the arrival of death. Delay not, for thou hast no time to lose. Behold me, O God, tell me what I must do to be saved, for I will do all that Thou requirest of me. I have turned my back upon Thee; and for this I am exceedingly sorry, and for having done so would willingly die of grief. Pardon me, O Lord, and suffer me not to forsake Thee any more. I love Thee above all things, and will never more cease to love Thee. Holy Mary, Virgin of virgins, obtain for me the grace of perseverance in virtue.

†

March 29th, Ferial Day of Fast.

      Newly Added Catholic Book
Fear of Divine Justice       Newly Added Catholic Book
"St. John Capistran" --A Saint
for our time. Novena to St. Vincent Ferrer,
March 28th through April 5th

Index for the Season of Lent and Passion-tide. A Resource Center of Prayers, Devotions, Books and Sermons. All related links to the Sacrament of Penance, Marriage, the Blessed Virgin Mary and the Saints. Index of Children Prayers The Practice of Lent, by Prosper Gueranger 40 Days of Meditations for Lent by St. Thomas Aquinas Stations of the Cross The Psalter of Jesus Devotion to the Five Wounds of Jesus Prayers and Devotions for the Holy Season of Lent Index of Prayers for the Holy Souls in Purgatory The Church's Laws on Fasting and the Season of Lent The Necessity of Mortification

The Little Office of the Blessed Virgin Mary Joyful Mysteries Sorrowful Mysteries Glorious Mysteries

       †

March 28th, St. John Capistran, Confessor

St. John Capistran, Confessor       Newly Added Catholic Book
"St. John Capistran" --A Saint
for our time. Novena to St. Vincent Ferrer,
March 28th through April 5th

Index for the Season of Lent and Passion-tide. A Resource Center of Prayers, Devotions, Books and Sermons. All related links to the Sacrament of Penance, Marriage, the Blessed Virgin Mary and the Saints. Index of Children Prayers The Practice of Lent, by Prosper Gueranger 40 Days of Meditations for Lent by St. Thomas Aquinas Stations of the Cross The Psalter of Jesus Devotion to the Five Wounds of Jesus Prayers and Devotions for the Holy Season of Lent Index of Prayers for the Holy Souls in Purgatory The Church's Laws on Fasting and the Season of Lent The Necessity of Mortification

The Little Office of the Blessed Virgin Mary Joyful Mysteries Sorrowful Mysteries Glorious Mysteries

O God, who through blessed John didst make Thy faithful, in virtue of the most holy Name of Jesus, to triumph over the enemies of Thy Cross: grant, we beseech Thee, by his intercession that we may overcome the snares of the enemies of our souls, and be found worthy to receive the crown of righteousness from Thee. Through our Lord Jesus Christ, Thy Son, Who liveth and reigneth with Thee in the unity of the Holy Ghost, one God, world without end.   Amen.

(Roman Breviary)

       †

March 27th, St. John Damascene, Confessor and Doctor of the Church

St. John Damascene The Church Triumphant Veneration of the Saints

Index for the Season of Lent and Passion-tide. A Resource Center of Prayers, Devotions, Books and Sermons. All related links to the Sacrament of Penance, Marriage, the Blessed Virgin Mary and the Saints. Index of Children Prayers The Practice of Lent, by Prosper Gueranger 40 Days of Meditations for Lent by St. Thomas Aquinas The Psalter of Jesus Devotion to the Five Wounds of Jesus Prayers and Devotions for the Holy Season of Lent Index of Prayers for the Holy Souls in Purgatory The Church's Laws on Fasting and the Season of Lent The Necessity of Mortification

The Little Office of the Blessed Virgin Mary Joyful Mysteries Sorrowful Mysteries Glorious Mysteries

Almighty, everlasting God, Who didst fill blessed John with heavenly learning and with a spirit of wonderful strength, that he might spread devotion to holy images: grant us through this prayers and example, to imitate the virtues of those whose images we venerate and to experience their protection. Through our Lord Jesus Christ, Thy Son, Who liveth and reigneth with Thee in the unity of the Holy Ghost, one God, world without end. Amen.

(Roman Breviary)

Saint John was born in the late 7th century, and is the most remarkable of the Greek writers of the 8th century. His father was a civil authority who was Christian amid the Saracens of Damascus, whose caliph made him his minister. This enlightened man found in the public square one day, amid a group of sad Christian captives, a priest of Italian origin who had been condemned to slavery; he ransomed him and assigned him to his young son to be his tutor. Young John made extraordinary progress in grammar, dialectic, mathematics, music, poetry, astronomy, but above all in theology, the discipline imparting knowledge of God. John became famous for his encyclopedic knowledge and theological method, later a source of inspiration to Saint Thomas Aquinas.

When his father died, the caliph made of him his principal counselor, his Grand Vizier. Thus it was through Saint John Damascene that the advanced sciences made their apparition among the Arab Moslems, who had burnt the library of Alexandria in Egypt; it was not the Moslems who instructed the Christians, as was believed for some time in Europe. Saint John vigorously opposed the ferocious Iconoclast persecution instigated by the Emperor of Constantinople, Leo the Isaurian. He distinguished himself, with Saint Germain, Patriarch of Constantinople, in the defense of the veneration of sacred images.

The Emperor, irritated, himself conjured up a plot against him. A letter was forged, signed with Saint John�'s name, and addressed to himself, the Emperor of Constantinople, offering to deliver up the city of Damascus to him. That letter was then transmitted by the Emperor to the Caliph of Damascus, advising him as a good neighbor should do, that he had a traitor for minister. Although Saint John vigorously defended himself against the charge, he was condemned by the Caliph to have his right hand cut off. The severed hand, by order of the Caliph, was attached to a post in a public square. But Saint John obtained the hand afterwards, and invoked the Blessed Virgin in a prayer which has been preserved; he prayed to be able to continue to write the praises of Her Son and Herself. The next morning when he awoke, he found his hand joined again to the arm, leaving no trace of pain, but only a fine red line like a bracelet, marking the site of the miracle.

The Saint was reinstated afterwards to the favor of the local prince, but he believed that heaven had made it clear he was destined to serve the Church by his writings. He therefore distributed his property and retired soon thereafter to the monastery of Saint Sabas near Jerusalem, where he spent most of his remaining years in apologetic writings and prayer. Occasionally he left to console the Christians of Syria and Palestine and strengthen them, even going to Constantinople in the hope of obtaining martyrdom there. However, he was able to return to his monastery. There he died in peace at the age of 104, and was buried near the door of the monastery church, in the year 780.

†

March 26th, Fourth Sunday of Lent (LAETARE SUNDAY)

4th Sunday Lent Sermons for the Fourth
Sunday in Lent Children's Sermon for the Fourth Sunday in Lent Fourth Sunday of Lent: Epistle and Gospel The Gift of Mircacles Spiritual Communion Manner of Hearing Mass At Home: For those who on account of sickness, old age, or for other proper reasons cannot assist at holy Mass, especially on Sundays and Holidays 40 Days of Meditations for Lent by St. Thomas Aquinas Index for the Season of Lent Index of Children Prayers, Lent Index of Prayers for the Holy Souls in Purgatory Novena and Penitential Litany for Lent; The Prodigal Son The Psalter of Jesus Prayers and Devotions for the Holy Season of Lent The Church's Laws on Fasting and the Season of Lent

The Little Office of the Blessed Virgin Mary Joyful Mysteries Sorrowful Mysteries Glorious Mysteries

The Four Last Things

Death General Judgement Heaven Hell The Thought of Eternity The fewness of those saved. Will you be one of them?

Grant, we beseech thee, almighty God: that we who justly suffere for our deeds, may be relieved by the consolation of Thy grace. Through our Lord.

R. Moses stood before Pharao and said: Thus saith the Lord: Let my people go, that they may sacrifice to me in the desert.

V. The Lord God of the Hebrews sent me to thee, saying. Let my people go, that they may sacrifice to me in the desert.

(Roman Breviary)

Fourth Sunday of Lent
by Dom Gueranger

This Sunday, called, from the first word of the Introit, Lcetare Sunday, is one of the most solemn of the year. The Church interrupts her Lenten mournfulness; the chants of the Mass speak of nothing but joy and consolation; the Organ, which has been silent during the preceding three Sundays, now gives forth its melodious voice; the Deacon resumes his Dalmatic, and the Subdeacon his Tunic ; and instead of purple, Rose-coloured Vestments are allowed to be used. These same rites were practised in Advent, on the third Sunday, called Gaudete. The Church's motive for introducing this expression of joy in today's Liturgy, is to encourage her Children to persevere fervently to the end of this holy Season. The real Mid-Lent was last Thursday, as we have already observed; but the Church, fearing lest the joy might lead to some infringement on the spirit of penance, has deferred her own notice of it to this Sunday, when she not only permits, but even bids, her children to rejoice!

†

March 25th,
The Annunciation of the Blessed Virgin Mary. Day of Fast

The Annunciation Sermons of Fr. Weninger
for the Annunciation Children's Sermon for the
The Annunciation: Sermons for Children           Newly Added
Feast of the Annunciation: Explained by Rev. L. Goffine St. Gabriel Ave Maria The Dogma of the Incarnation Rests on the Divine Maternity of the Blessed Virgin Mary In Defense of Mary
The Mother of God The Humility of the Blessed Virgin of Mary 30 Days Prayer to the
Blessed Virgin Mary Encyclical on the
Recitation of the Rosary Prayers of Our Lady
of the Rosary The History of the Rosary How to Say the Rosary Rosary Novenas Joyful Mysteries Sorrowful Mysteries Glorious Mysteries The Little Office of the Blessed Virgin Mary, from Candlemas until Advent

Index for the Season of Lent and Passion-tide. A Resource Center of Prayers, Devotions, Books and Sermons. All related links to the Sacrament of Penance, Marriage, the Blessed Virgin Mary and the Saints. 40 Days of Meditations for Lent by St. Thomas Aquinas Devotions to the 5 Wounds of Jesus Index of Children Prayers, Lent Prayers and Devotions for the Holy Season of Lent The Steps of Our Savior's Passion The Psalter of Jesus Stations of the Cross The Church's Laws on Fasting and the Season of Lent Index of Prayers for the Holy Souls in Purgatory

Related links for the Sacrament of Penance

The Idolatry of the Creature Due to Impurity The Vice of Lust: The Folly of Impure Desires of Sensual Pleasures Sacrament of Penance The Sacrament of Penance, All of Your Questions Answered Examination of Conscience Rite of Confession General Confession The Necessity of Avoiding Occasions of Sin
by St. Alphonsus Liguori Contrition and the Purpose of Amendment
by St. Alphonsus Liguori Contrition The False Peace of a Sinful Conscience, by Fr. Hunolt, 1691-1746 Render an Account of Your Life: A Must Read for Every Soul The Conversion of Sinners Penitent's Consolation The Nature of Sin Conscience Index of the Ten Commandments Sermon on Keeping the 10 Commandments The Conversion of Sinners The Necessity of Prayer for Sinners

O God, Who didst please that Thy Word should take flesh at the message of an Angel in the womb of the blessed Virgin Mary: grant to us Thy suppliants, that we who believe her to be truly the Mother of God, may be helped by her intercession with thee. Through our Lord Jesus Christ, Thy Son, Who liveth and reigneth with Thee in the unity of the Holy Ghost, one God, world without end.   Amen.

(Roman Breviary)

This great festival takes its name from the happy tidings brought by the angel Gabriel to the Blessed Virgin, concerning the Incarnation of the Son of God. It commemorates the most important embassy that was ever known: an embassy sent by the King of kings, performed by one of the chief princes of His heavenly court; directed, not to the great ones of this earth, but to a poor, unknown virgin, who, being endowed with the most angelic purity of soul and body, being withal perfectly humble and devoted to God, was greater in His eyes than the mightiest monarch in the world.

When the Son of God became man, He could have taken upon Him our nature without the cooperation of any creature; but He was pleased to be born of a woman. In the choice of her whom He raised to this most sublime of all dignities, He pitched upon the one who, by the riches of His grace and virtues, was of all others the most holy and the most perfect. The design of this embassy of the archangel is to give a Saviour to the world, a victim of propitiation to the sinner, a model to the just, a son to this Virgin, remaining still a virgin, and a new nature to the Son of God, the nature of man, capable of suffering pain and anguish in order to satisfy God's justice for our transgressions.

When the angel appeared to Mary and addressed her, the Blessed Virgin was troubled: not at the angel's appearance, says St. Ambrose, for heavenly visions and a commerce with the blessed spirits had been familiar to her; but what alarmed her, he says, was the angel's appearing in human form, in the shape of a young man. What might add to her fright on the occasion was his addressing her in words of praise. Mary, guarded by her modesty, is in confusion at expressions of this sort, and dreads the least appearance of deluding flattery. Such high commendations make her cautious how she answers, till in silence she has more fully considered of the matter: "She revolved in her mind," says St. Luke, "what manner of salutation this should be." Ah, what numbers of innocent souls have been corrupted for want of using the like precautions!

The angel, to calm her, says: "Fear not, Mary, for thou hast found favor before God." He then informs her that she is to conceive and bring forth a Son Whose name shall be Jesus, Who shall be great, and the Son of the Most High, and possessed of the throne of David, her illustrious ancestor. Mary, out of a just concern to know how she may comply with the will of God without prejudice to her vow of virginity, inquires, "How shall this be?" Nor does she give her consent till the heavenly messenger acquaints her that it is to be a work of the Holy Ghost, who, in making her fruitful, will not intrench in the least upon her virginal purity.

In submission, therefore, to God's will, without any further inquiries, she expresses her assent in these humble but powerful words: "Behold the handmaid of the Lord; be it done to me according to Thy word" What faith and confidence does her answer express! what profound humility and perfect obedience!

Reflection.--From the example of the Blessed Virgin in this mystery, how ardent a love ought we to conceive of purity and humility! The Holy Ghost is invited by purity to dwell in souls, but is chased away by the filth of the contrary vice. Humility is the foundation of a spiritual life. By it Mary was prepared for the extraordinary graces and all virtues with which she was enriched, and for the eminent dignity of Mother of God.

Meditation on the Annunciation

Mary's life as Joseph's Spouse was no less one of devotion and recollection and prayer than her life in the Temple. In their little cottage her time was spent, when her household duties were done, in fervent prayer to God. Thus she is said to have been occupied when the Archangel Gabriel appeared to her. Mary's prayers and Mary's longing desires had moved the Heart of God to send a Redeemer for mankind! O omnipotent efficacy of earnest desire and persevering prayer!

The message the Angel brought bewildered the chaste and humble maiden. Her first thought was one of fear--fear lest the privilege announced to her should be purchased at the cost of her Immaculate virginity: she would not sacrifice this even to be Mother of the Messias: anything rather than forfeit that priceless jewel!

But God, who sent an Angel to comfort Christ in His Passion, reassured Mary by the Angel's voice: Fear not, thou hast found grace with God. Because thou dost esteem thyself the most unworthy, God will exalt thee to a dignity which seems almost beyond the power of God to confer: He will make thee the Mother of His Son. O wondrous dignity of true humility!

Mary, it was thy lowliness,
Well pleasing to the Lord,
That made thee worthy to become
The Mother of the Word.

       †

March 24th,
St. Gabriel, Archangel. Day of Fast and Total Abstinence

St. Gabriel The Annunciation Ave Maria Joyful Mysteries Litany of the Holy Angels The Devils Plan to Ruin Souls and the Protection of the Holy Angels The Three Archangels and the Guardian Angels in Art, 1899 The Angels in the Liturgy Good and Bad Angels Your Guardian Angel throughout life Meditations on St. Joseph for the Month of March

Newly Added
Good and Evil Explained

Index for the Season of Lent Index of Children Prayers, Lent 40 Days of Meditations for Lent by St. Thomas Aquinas Prayers and Devotions for the Holy Season of Lent The Steps of Our Savior's Passion The Psalter of Jesus Stations of the Cross The Church's Laws on Fasting and the Season of Lent Index of Prayers for the Holy Souls in Purgatory

Novenas during the month of March

Novena to St. Gabriel,
March 16th through March 24th Novena for the Annunciation,
March 17th through March 25th Novena and Penitential Litany for Lent; The Prodigal Son--These devotions can be said at anytime during the entire season of Lent.

The Little Office of the Blessed Virgin Mary Joyful Mysteries Sorrowful Mysteries Glorious Mysteries

O God, Who didst choose Gabriel, the Archangel, from among the other Angels to announce the mystery of Thy Incarnation: Mercifully grant, that we who keep his feast upon earth may feel his patronage in heaven: Who liveth and reigneth with Thee in the unity of the Holy Ghost, one God, world without end. Amen.

(Roman Breviary)

St. Gabriel was sent to Daniel to enlighten him as to the time when Christ would be born (Epistle), and to Zachary, at the hour in which he offered incense in the temple (Offertory), to announce to him the birth of John the Baptist, the Precursor of the Messias (Gospel). "Only Gabriel, a name that means 'Power of God,' was found worthy among all the angels," says St. Bernard, "to announce to Mary the designs of God with regard to her" (Matins). "He was chosen from among all the angels," says the Collect, " to proclaim the mystery of the Incarnation."

With a feeling of holy reverence, St. Gabriel came to the Virgin who from all eternity had been chosen to be the mother on earth of Him of whom God is the Father in heaven. In the words inspired by the most High, and which the Church desires us to repeat frequently, he said to her: "Hail, full of grace, the Lord is with thee: blessed art thou among women."

And seeing that Mary was taken aback by this salutation, the angel explained that he had come to obtain her consent, her Fiat, that the great mystery on which depended the redemption of mankind might be accomplished. "I am Gabriel who stand before God, and I have been sent to speak to thee and to tell thee these good tidings " (Matins).

It was Mary's wish to remain a virgin, and the angel of the Lord announced that she would conceive of the Holy Ghost and that she would give birth to a son to whom she would give the name of Jesus, that is to say, Saviour.

Mary then, without hesitating, submitted with the most profound humility : Behold the handmaid of the Lord: be it done to me according to Thy word.

And in that instant was accomplished the greatest of all miracles when God raised unto Himself and into union with Him the blessed fruit of the womb of the Virgin : " And the Word was made flesh and dwelt among us."

The angel then returned to heaven. "Having learned by the mouth of Gabriel the Incarnation of the Word, may it be given to us to obtain by his help the fruits of that same Incarnation." (Postcommunion).

†

March 23rd, Ferial Day of Fast

Newly Added
Good and Evil Explained

Index for the Season of Lent Index of Children Prayers, Lent 40 Days of Meditations for Lent by St. Thomas Aquinas Index of Prayers for the Holy Souls in Purgatory The Psalter of Jesus Prayers and Devotions for the Holy Season of Lent The Church's Laws on Fasting and the Season of Lent

Novenas during the month of March

Novena to St. Gabriel,
March 16th through March 24th Novena for the Annunciation,
March 17th through March 25th Novena and Penitential Litany for Lent; The Prodigal Son--These devotions can be said at anytime during the entire season of Lent.

The Little Office of the Blessed Virgin Mary Joyful Mysteries Sorrowful Mysteries Glorious Mysteries

On the Vanity
of all worldly things

by St. Alphonsus Liguori

What is life but a vapour, which appears for a short time and then is seen no more? What is your life? says St. James, It is a vapour which appeareth for a little while, and afterwards shall vanish away. iv. 15. The vapours which arise from the earth, when raised into the air and surrounded by the rays of the sun appear brilliant and beautiful; but the least wind disperses them and they are seen no more. Such is the grandeur of this world. Behold that prince; today, he is feared, attended upon and honoured by thousands; tomorrow, he will be dead, despised and hated by all. In a word, honours, pleasures and riches, must all end in death. O my God! make me sensible of the immensity of Thy goodness, that I may love nothing but Thee.

Death deprives man of whatever he may possess in this world. What a sad sight, to behold a rich man, after death, carried out of his palace, to return thither no more! how sad, to behold others taking possession of the estates which he has left, of his wealth, and of whatever else he so lately enjoyed! His servants, after having accompanied him to his grave, abandon him, and leave him there, to be devoured by worms; no one esteeming him, no one flattering him. Formerly every one obeyed his nod, but now no one takes the least notice of his orders. How wretched have I been, O Lord, in having, for so many years, gone after the vanities of the world, and left Thee, my sovereign good! But from this day forward, I desire to possess Thee as my only treasure, as the only love of my soul.

Dust and ashes, why are you proud? Man, says the Almighty, seest thou not that in a short time thou wilt become dust and ashes? and on what dost thou fix thy thoughts and affections? Reflect that death will soon rob thee of every thing, and separate thee from the whole world. And if, when thou givest in thy accounts, thou be found wanting, what will become of thee for eternity? I give Thee thanks, my Lord and my God. Thou speakest thus to me, because Thou desirest to save me. Let Thy mercies now prevail. Thou hast promised to pardon such as repent of their offences against Thee. From the bottom of my heart do I repent, grant me therefore pardon. Thou hast promised to love those who love Thee: above all things do I now love Thee; wherefore do Thou love me also, and hate me not any more, as I have deserved. O Mary, my advocate, in your protection is my hope.

†

March 22nd, St. Isadore the Farmer. Day of Fast

St. Isadore the Farmer Your Guardian Angel throughout life What we should pray for

Index for the Season of Lent Index of Children Prayers, Lent 40 Days of Meditations for Lent by St. Thomas Aquinas Index of Prayers for the Holy Souls in Purgatory The Psalter of Jesus Prayers and Devotions for the Holy Season of Lent The Church's Laws on Fasting and the Season of Lent

Novenas during the month of March

Novena to St. Gabriel,
March 16th through March 24th Novena for the Annunciation,
March 17th through March 25th Novena and Penitential Litany for Lent; The Prodigal Son--These devotions can be said at anytime during the entire season of Lent.

The Little Office of the Blessed Virgin Mary Joyful Mysteries Sorrowful Mysteries Glorious Mysteries

Grant us, we beseech Thee, O God, by the intercession of Thy Confessor the Holy farm-laborer, Isidore, that we may overcome any feelings of pride, and may always serve Thee with That Humility which pleases Thee, through his merits and example. Through our Lord Jesus Christ, Thy Son, Who liveth and reigneth with Thee in the unity of the Holy Ghost, one God, world without end. Amen.

(Roman Breviary)

St. Isidore the Farmer, was born near Madrid of very poor but very Christian parents, who early inspired in him love for God and horror of sin. His education was accomplished entirely by the Holy Spirit who taught him, without books, the science of salvation.

He married a wife rich in virtue, Maria Torribia, and God blessed them with a son whom they brought up in the sentiments of their own piety. The child fell into a well, which is still shown in Madrid, and drowned; but when his parents prayed he might be returned to them, the water rose to ground level and brought up the child full of life and health. They promised then to separate, apparently out of gratitude to God, and to live in perpetual continence.

Saint Isidore himself was a day-laborer on a farm near Madrid, but every day found him at Mass in one of the churches of the city before he set out for his daily task. His employer desired to verify whether he was wasting time during his work, and one day saw two mysterious personages helping the holy worker to guide his plow; Isidore himself told him they were Angels. Afterwards the wealthy owner became still more convinced that piety was useful in all occupations. For not only did his worker bring back to life one of his horses, which he very much needed; when his daughter, too, died, she was resurrected by the Saint. A fountain of water which the Saint caused to surge up by striking the ground still exists.

Saint Isidore, though poor, shared all he had with the poor; and one day, when no provisions were left, his cupboard was found well furnished when still another beggar arrived.

Saint Isidore died some time after his wife; and forty years later his remains, which had been in extremely wet ground, were found incorrupt. They were taken into the Church of Saint Andrew and re-interred there; miracles have been countless, and celestial music has often been heard at his tomb. He has protected the city of Seville, making himself visible occasionally; and the kings of Spain themselves urged his canonization, which was carried out in 1622 by Pope Gregory XV.

†

March 21st, St. Benedict, Abbot. Day of Fast

May the intercession of the blessed Abbot Benedict procure favor for us, we beseech thee, O Lord: that we may gain, by his patronage, those things of which we are not capable by our own merits. Through our Lord Jesus Christ, Thy Son, Who liveth and reigneth with Thee in the unity of the Holy Ghost, one God, world without end. Amen.

(Roman Breviary)

St. Benedict Prayers and Devotions To fight against Satan, The Medal or Cross of St. Benedict, by Prosper Gueranger Newly Added
St. Benedict by Leonard Goffine

Index for the Season of Lent Index of Children Prayers, Lent 40 Days of Meditations for Lent by St. Thomas Aquinas Index of Prayers for the Holy Souls in Purgatory The Psalter of Jesus Prayers and Devotions for the Holy Season of Lent The Church's Laws on Fasting and the Season of Lent

Novenas during the month of March

Novena to St. Gabriel,
March 16th through March 24th Novena for the Annunciation,
March 17th through March 25th Novena and Penitential Litany for Lent; The Prodigal Son--These devotions can be said at anytime during the entire season of Lent.

The Little Office of the Blessed Virgin Mary Joyful Mysteries Sorrowful Mysteries Glorious Mysteries

St. Benedict, blessed by grace and in name, was born of a noble Italian family about 480. When a boy he was sent to Rome, and there placed in the public schools. Scared by the licentiousness of the Roman youth, he fled to the desert mountains of Subiaco, and was directed by the Holy Spirit into a cave, deep, craggy, and almost inaccessible. He lived there for three years, unknown to any one save the holy monk Romanus, who clothed him with the monastic habit and brought him food. But the fame of his sanctity soon gathered disciples round him.

The rigor of his rule, however, drew on him the hatred of some of the monks, and one of them mixed poison with the abbot's drink; but when the Saint made the sign of the cross on the poisoned bowl, it broke and fell in pieces to the ground. After he had built twelve monasteries at Subiaco, he removed to Monte Casino, where he founded an abbey in which he wrote his rule and lived until death. By prayer he did all things: wrought miracles, saw visions, and prophesied. A peasant, whose boy had just died, ran in anguish to St. Benedict, crying out, "Give me back my son!" The monks joined the poor man in his entreaties; but the Saint replied, "Such miracles are not for us to work, but for the blessed apostles. Why will you lay upon me a burden which my weakness cannot bear? "Moved at length by compassion he knelt down and, prostrating himself upon the body of the child, prayed earnestly. Then rising, he cried out, "Behold not, O Lord, my sins, but the faith of this man, who desireth the life of his son, and restore to the body that soul which Thou hast taken away." Hardly had he spoken when the child's body began to tremble, and taking it by the hand he restored it alive to its father.

Six days before his death he ordered his grave to be opened, and fell ill of a fever. On the sixth day he requested to be borne into the chapel, and, having received the body and blood of Christ, with hands uplifted, and leaning on one of his disciples, he calmly expired in prayer on the 21st of March, 543.

Reflection.--The Saints never feared to undertake any work, however arduous, for God, because, distrusting self, they relied for assistance and support wholly upon prayer.

†

March 20th, St. Joseph, Spouse of the Blessed Virgin Mary

Grant, O Lord, that we may be helped by the merits of the Spouse of Thy most holy Mother: so that what we cannot obtain of ourselves, may be given to us through his intercession: Who liveth and reigneth with Thee in the unity of the Holy Ghost, one God, world without end. Amen.

(Roman Breviary)

St. Joseph, Spouse of the Blessed Virgin Mary, Confessor, and Patron of the Universal Church St. Joseph Additional Prayers Sermons on St. Joseph Newly Added
Instructions for the Feast of St. Joseph The Patronage of St. Joseph Index of Prayers and
Devotions for the Dying
St. Joseph, Patron of the Dying A Novena of Meditations in Honor of St. Joseph.html St. Joseph Husband of Mary and Intecessor of the Universal Church Solemnity of St. Joseph Prayers and Devotions to the Holy Family March Meditation on St. Joseph Christmas Video Joseph Dearest, Joseph Mine

Other Links in Honor of St. Joseph

The Flight into Egypt Instructions for the
Catholic Family The Christian Father Instructions and Prayers for Fathers The Christian Family The Life of the Blessed Virgin Mary, St. Joseph, St. Joachim
and St. Anne, 1859

Novenas during the month of March

Novena to St. Joseph,
March 11th through March 19th 30 Day Prayer to St. Joseph: Feb. 18th - Mar. 19th Novena to St. Gabriel,
March 16th through March 24th Novena for the Annunciation,
March 17th through March 25th Novena and Penitential Litany for Lent; The Prodigal Son--These devotions can be said at anytime during the entire season of Lent.

40 Days of Meditations for Lent by St. Thomas Aquinas Index for the Season of Lent Index of Children Prayers, Lent Index of Prayers for the Holy Souls in Purgatory Novena and Penitential Litany for Lent; The Prodigal Son The Psalter of Jesus Prayers and Devotions for the Holy Season of Lent The Church's Laws on Fasting and the Season of Lent

The Little Office of the Blessed Virgin Mary Joyful Mysteries Sorrowful Mysteries Glorious Mysteries

On the nineteenth of March, our holy Mother the Church reminds us of the feast of St. Joseph, Spouse of the Blessed Virgin Mary, Foster- Father of Jesus, and Patron of the Universal Church. The Catholic Church has always honored St. Joseph in a special manner, after Our Lady and above the other Saints.

St. Gregory the Great tells us that Christ is the Son of God, not only because He is the Second Person of the Blessed Trinity, but also because God formed His sacred humanity. In the first promise of the Redeemer as we read it in the Gospel Commentary, Christ is called, not the seed of man, but the seed of the woman;(1) and in the genealogy of Christ re- corded by St. Matthew, no mention is made of His descent from Joseph, but only of Mary.(2) Yet, Christ was commonly thought to be the son of Joseph.(3) Mary was espoused to St. Joseph that no accusation might be made against her by the world, and that she might have in him a protector. About St. Joseph we have the following facts: He was a carpenter,(4) he was a just man.(5)

On the first page of the New Testament, in the first chapter of St. Matthew's Gospel, stand the name and the office of 8t. Joseph, the foundation of his claim to the veneration of Christians and the complete justification of all the honor paid him by the unerring Spouse of Christ, the Holy Catholic Church.

The Spouse of Mary Immaculate, the Head of the Holy Family, the Foster-Father of the Incarnate Word, to his faithful guardianship were entrusted Christ Jesus, Innocence itself, and Mary, Virgin of virgins. As King Assuerus desired to honor Mardochai of old, the protector of Queen Esther, so the King of Heaven desired to honor Joseph, yet, not with the fleeting hours of earthly greatness, whose remembrance would quickly fade from the minds of men, but with a dignity which should claim increasing reverence in each succeeding age. Even as the elder Joseph in King Pharaoh's court, his prototype, had been clothed with the king's own garment, so was he clothed with the earthly representation of the eternal fatherhood of God. He was the spouse on earth of her who was the Bride of the Holy Ghost.

St. Bernardine of Siena lays down the following principle of God's dealing with His saints which is verified most of all in St. Joseph. "When the divine favor chooses anyone for a singular grace or for a sublime state or position, to that person are given, together with his vocation, all those gifts of grace that are necessary for him as well as those that befit the office to -which he is chosen.

St. Joseph was chosen from among men to have the chief part, after his Immaculate Spouse, in the supreme work of God's mercy, the Incarnation of the Eternal Word. He -was to he the companion and spouse of the Mother of God, the guide, protector and ruler of the Word Made Flesh. His office required the rarest qualities of soul and mind: these were given him with gifts of grace that were limited only by omnipotent generosity.

What must not have been the graces given him in early life to prepare him for his life-work! And then, after the Espousals, must not the prayers of Mary his spouse have obtained for him plentiful floods of divine grace? But who "will attempt to measure the increase of holiness coming to him from his years of close companionship with the Source of all holiness, his Foster-Son Christ Jesus? His life after the Nativity was one long Communion day, grace following grace in his soul; his heart was ever filled with the thought of thanksgiving, as in the psalm, "What shall I render to the Lord for all that he has ren- dered unto me?"

In Christian art we find St. Joseph presented to us in accordance with the truth of Scripture and tradition. Christian artists have ever dwelt lovingly on the mysteries of the life of Christ. Of the Holy Family, pictures are given by the best authorities from the earliest days of the Church; some were found on the walls of the Roman Catacombs of Sts. Calistus and Priscilla; others, to be seen on sepulchral marbles and sarcophagi,, as well as upon ivory and earthenware.

The exquisite legend or tradition of the Espousals is beautifully portrayed in Raphael's painting, "The Marriage of St. Joseph,'' Tradition tells us that .there were many suitors for the hand of Mary, the heiress of Joachim and Anna. All the unmarried laen of the race of David, Joseph among the number, were summoned by the high priest, who bade each of them bring a rod with his name inscribed upon it. These rods the high priest placed in the Tabernacle of the Testimony, as Moses had done with the rods of Aaron and the princes of the tribes, and he besought the Lord to repeat the sign for him whom He had chosen to be Mary's spouse. On the morrow, it was found that, while the rods of the others had remained unchanged, Joseph's rod had budded and blossomed and now bore leaves and beautiful flowers. This is said by many to be the origin of the flowering rod with which St. Joseph is so often represented in art.

The Hidden Life has ever been a magnet for devout artists. The touching traditions that have come down to us fill out the Gospel narrative and afford subjects for Christian art as well as for pious contemplation.

In the Holy House at Nazareth there was constant labor. St. Justin, the Christian Apologist of the second century, tells us that "Jesus was reputed the son of Joseph, the carpenter or worker in wood and He Himself was reckoned to be a carpenter; for while He dwelt among men He had performed carpenter's work, making plows and yokes, teaching us thus to lead just lives, free from idleness.'' Would that these lessons might sink deeply into the souls of all Christians, and that, our thoughts dwelling oftener upon this Holy Family, our labor might become sanctified by closer union with theirs.

The life of Jesus, Mary and Joseph at Nazareth was a life of prayer and of labor, a hard life to lead, as worldly-minded men consider it, a lowly life and, in truth, distasteful to many whose ideas of labor are altogether at variance with Catholic teaching and practice. "To lead just lives" in the practice of all the virtues befitting our state; "to lead lives free from idleness'' avoiding useless works and those not given us to do, and doing with all our might the work that God has given us. What toil will not be sweetened for him who has allowed these lessons to penetrate deeply into his mind and heart! What merit will he not gain if all his days are days of labor and of prayer in union with that prayer and labor which at Nazareth helped to save the world!

The end of earthly life was at hand; St. Joseph's work was done, his mission on earth fulfilled. Now he might repeat, with fuller meaning, the words of the holy old man Simeon--words that when first pronounced had filled his soul with wonder--"Now, O Lord, Thou dost dismiss Thy servant according to Thy word in peace." His eyes had indeed beheld the salvation of the Lord; he had seen Him Whom many kings eagerly desired to look upon; it had been given him not only to see and to hear, but to carry in his arms, to embrace, to clothe and to protect the only- begotten Son of God.

The "Death of St. Joseph" by Overbeck, represents the Saint at the very moment of death; Our Lady kneels beside Him, her hands clasped in prayer, and Our Lord, with hand upraised, is giving him the last blessing. Angels gaze with rapture upon the scene, and chant the words of the Apocalypse:

"Blessed are the dead who die in the Lord." St. Joseph's death in the arms of Jesus has made him the special patron of the dying.

St. Jerome tells us St. Joseph was perfect in every virtue; and St. Thomas Aquinas gives as the reason for his holiness that he was so close to the Fount of holiness, just as the spring is clearer as we approach its source. St. Francis de Sales tells us that St. Joseph was conspicuous for his purity, and therein surpassed all the saints and even the angels. He was called father by Him Whose Father was in heaven.(6) Many saints assert that St. Joseph has a very high place in heaven as the spouse of the Blessed Virgin, and that he will be called upon by men in the last days of the world and give signs of his great power. St. Joseph is the patron of the Church;(7) that is, his prayers for the Church have great efficacy at the throne of God. St. Thomas Aquinas says that St. Joseph received power from God to help us in all necessities; and St. Teresa declared that no prayer of hers to St. Joseph in temporal or spiritual need was ever left unanswered.

May this short story increase our love for St. Joseph and help us to desire more ardently to have a very special share in his powerful protection in life and in death, since God has given him to us also, the most blessed and powerful guide and protector in our last passage, which we trust is to lead us to that heavenly home, of which the cottage at Nazareth was the image and the anticipation.(8)

1. Gen, iii, 15.
2. Matt. i, 16.
3.Luke iii, 23
4. Matt. xiii. 55.
5. Ib. i. 19.
6. St. Basil.
7. Pius IX, 1870.
8. Rev. Alban Butler.

†

March 19th,
Third Sunday in Lent.

The Liturgical Feast of St. Joseph has been transferred to March 20th because the Third Sunday of Lent falls on March 19th.

Third Sunday in Lent I. Third Sunday in Lent II. Third Sunday of Lent:
Epistle and Gospel Children's Sermon for the Third Sunday in Lent Index for the Season of Lent Practice During Lent.html 40 Days of Meditations for Lent by St. Thomas Aquinas Prayers and Devotions for the Holy Season of Lent The Church's Laws on Fasting and the Season of Lent

Novenas during the month of March

Novena to St. Joseph,
March 11th through March 19th 30 Day Prayer to St. Joseph: Feb. 18th - Mar. 19th Novena to St. Gabriel,
March 16th through March 24th Novena for the Annunciation,
March 17th through March 25th Novena and Penitential Litany for Lent; The Prodigal Son--These devotions can be said at anytime during the entire season of Lent.

Resisting the Enemies of Our Salvation Does Satan Exist? To fight against Satan, The Medal or Cross of St. Benedict, by Prosper Gueranger St. Michael/ Exorcism The Spiritual Combat
by Fr. Scupoli, 1865 A Short Explanation on the Rite of Exorcisms The Devils Plan to Ruin Souls and the Protection of the Holy Angels Beware if you have no Temptations Temptations: Why we have them Lead us not into Temptation Temptations and the Devils who Tempt Good and Bad Angels Litany of the Holy Angels

One of the most thoroughly documented accounts of an official Exorcism in the Catholic Church

The Triumph of the Blessed Sacrament or Exorcism of Nicola Aubry, by Fr. Michael Muller

The Little Office of the Blessed Virgin Mary Joyful Mysteries Sorrowful Mysteries Glorious Mysteries

The Necessity of Avoiding Occasions of Sin
by St. Alphonsus Liguori The Penitent Christian Prayers for the Preservation of Chastity. An Explanation and Defense of the Virtue of Chastity, Prayers Against Temptation

Motives for Penance Derived from the Thought of the Evil which Sin has Wrought
by Rev. Bruno Vercruysse

1st Prel. Imagine you hear St. Peter saying to the people of Jerusalem, "Repent therefore, and be converted, that your sins may be blotted out." (Acts 3: 19.)

2d Prel. Beg for a strong impulse of the will to comply with the Apostle's precept.

Point I--MULTITUDE OF OUR SINS

Consideration: Go over the past years of your life in spirit--before and after your First Communion, before and after your entrance into religion, the places where you have lived, the sins you have committed; run rapidly over the commandments of God and the Church, the obligations attached to your vows, the offices and employments that have been confided to you; and you will be surprised and terrified at the sight of your innumerable sins. What would it be if you saw them as God sees them!

Application: For a single mortal sin, Adam and his posterity were condemned to death and eternal torments; for a single venial sin, those great friends of God, Moses, David, and Ezechias, suffered severe punishment--a feeble shadow only, however, of the punishment for the smallest sin in the next world. What ought I, then, to expect, who have committed so many sins? It matters nothing that I forget them; God never forgets. He will leave nothing unpunished, not even the slight fault of an idle word. Our Lord Himself has told us so. We have many motives, then, to induce us to do real and continual penance; and in this holy time we shall receive special graces, which will make the practice of it easier. "Ecce nunc tempus acceptable." "Behold, now is the acceptable time." (11. Cor. 6: 2.)

Affections: Acknowledge humbly before God your sins and infidelities. Express your earnest desire to do penance for them. Ask grace to accomplish this desire.

Resolutions: Resolve on certain acts of penance and mortification which you will perform each day of this second week of Lent.

Point II--THE INJURY THAT SIN IS TO GOD

Consideration: Each mortal sin is a threefold insult to God, and its malice is infinite, inasmuch as it is committed against Him whose Majesty is infinite. We offend Him by insubordination and rebellion: God commands, and we do not obey. We offend Him by contempt: we prefer a transitory and vile enjoyment, sometimes a shameful one, to God and His laws. We injure Him by ingratitude: we make use of His very gifts to offend and insult Him. Each venial sin is also a three-fold injury; it is certainly of a slighter kind, but still its malice is so great that, if by a single venial sin we could change all the lost souls into saints who should praise God eternally in Heaven, we should not commit it, because the praises of all the human race could not compensate God for the injury done to Him by one venial sin.

Application: And the sins which you have committed against the Lord your God have contained malice such as this; and both faith and reason teach us that this malice increases, in proportion to the light and grace we have received. What ought we, then, to think about our venial sins? Who can count them? What an additional motive for penance during these chosen days, of which the Divine Office says, "The days of penance are come, to reclaim us from our sins!" "Advenerunt nobis dies paenitentia? ad redimenda peccata."

Point III--THE INJURY DONE TO OUR LORD BY SIN

Consideration: Our sins have been an injury to our Lord Jesus Christ. The Prophet Isaias speaks of our Lord as "Virum Dolorum," the "Man of Sorrows," (Isaias 53: 3,) above all other men; and it was our sins that made Him so; the sins of the whole world were laid on Him; and God beheld Him as the guilty one, on whom the weight of Divine justice was to fall. "Attritus est propter scelera nostra." "He was bruised for our sins," (Is. 53: 5) says the Holy Ghost. They were our sins which scourged Him, which crowned Him with thorns, which struck Him, spat upon Him, nailed Him to the cross, and made Him die upon it.

Application: This thought ought to overwhelm us with shame: There were times in my life when, in union with the cruel Jews, I cried out, "Let Him be crucified!" and, "Not this man, but Barabbas--not this man, but my passion." There have been times when, in union with the murderers, I ran the nails into my Saviour's hands and feet. I have done this, as far as I could, every time I committed a mortal sin. And every time I have committed a venial sin, I have added fresh suffering to the open wounds of Jesus. Thoughts like these armed the holy penitents of the desert against themselves. Imitate them during these holy days of universal penance and expiation.

†

March 18th, St. Cyril of Jerusalem, Bishop, Confessor. Day of Fast

St. Cyril of Jerusalem 40 Days of Meditations for Lent by St. Thomas Aquinas Index for the Season of Lent Index of Children Prayers, Lent Index of Prayers for the Holy Souls in Purgatory Stations of the Cross The Psalter of Jesus Prayers and Devotions for the Holy Season of Lent The Church's Laws on Fasting and the Season of Lent

Novenas during the month of March

Novena to St. Joseph,
March 11th through March 19th 30 Day Prayer to St. Joseph: Feb. 18th - Mar. 19th Novena to St. Gabriel,
March 16th through March 24th Novena for the Annunciation,
March 17th through March 25th Novena and Penitential Litany for Lent; The Prodigal Son--These devotions can be said at anytime during the entire season of Lent.

Related links for the Sacrament of Penance

The Idolatry of the Creature Due to Impurity The Vice of Lust: The Folly of Impure Desires of Sensual Pleasures Sacrament of Penance The Sacrament of Penance, All of Your Questions Answered Examination of Conscience Rite of Confession General Confession The Necessity of Avoiding Occasions of Sin
by St. Alphonsus Liguori Contrition and the Purpose of Amendment
by St. Alphonsus Liguori Contrition The False Peace of a Sinful Conscience, by Fr. Hunolt, 1691-1746 Render an Account of Your Life: A Must Read for Every Soul The Conversion of Sinners Penitent's Consolation The Nature of Sin Conscience Index of the Ten Commandments Sermon on Keeping the 10 Commandments The Conversion of Sinners The Necessity of Prayer for Sinners

Grant us, we beseech Thee, almighty God, through the intercession of blessed Cyril, Thy Bishop: so to know thee, the only true God and Jesus Christ whom Thou hast sent, that we may be accounted worthy to be numbered always with the sheep who hear his voice. Through our Lord Jesus Christ, Thy Son, Who liveth and reigneth with Thee in the unity of the Holy Ghost, one God, world without end. Amen.

(Roman Breviary)

Cyril was born at or near the city of Jerusalem, about the year 315. He was ordained priest by St. Maximus, who gave him the important charge of instructing and preparing the candidates for Baptism. This charge he held for several years, and we still have one series of his instructions, given in the year 347 or 318. They are of singular interest as being the earliest record of the systematic teaching of the Church on the creed and sacraments, and as having been given in the church built by Constantine on Mount Calvary. They are solid, simple, profound; saturated with Holy Scripture; exact, precise, and terse; and, as a witness and exposition of the Catholic faith, invaluable.

On the death of St. Maximus, Cyril was chosen Bishop of Jerusalem. At the beginning of his episcopate a cross was seen in the air reaching from Mount Calvary to Mount Olivet, and so bright that it shone at noonday. St. Cyril gave an account of it to the emperor; and the faithful regarded it as a presage of victory over the Arian heretics. While Cyril was bishop, the apostate Julian resolved to falsify the words of Our Lord by rebuilding the Temple at Jerusalem. He employed the power and resources of a Roman emperor; the Jews thronged enthusiastically to him and gave munificently. But Cyril was unmoved. "The word of God abides," he said; "one stone shall not be laid on another."

When the attempt was made, a heathen writer tells us that horrible flames came forth from the earth, rendering the place inaccessible to the scorched and scared workmen. The attempt was made again and again, and then abandoned in despair. Soon after, the emperor perished miserably in a war against the Persians, and the Church had rest. Like the other great bishops of his time, Cyril was persecuted, and driven once and again from his see; but on the death of the Arian Emperor Valens he returned to Jerusalem. He was present at the second General Council at Constantinople, and died in peace in 386, after a troubled episcopate of thirty-five years.

Reflection.--"As a stout staff," says St. John Chrysostom, "supports the trembling limbs of a feeble old man, so does faith sustain our vacillating mind, lest it be tossed about by sinful hesitation and perplexity."

†

March 17th, St. Patrick, Bishop and Confessor. Day of Fast and Total Abstinence.

I. St. Patrick Prayers Devotions II. St. Patrick, Apostle of Ireland III. The Life of St. Patrick, Apostle of Ireland, 1890 IV. St. Patrick's Shamrock and the book: "St. Patrick: His Life, His Heroic Virtues, His Labours, and the Fruits of His Labours" V. The Patrons of Erin:
St. Patrick and St. Brigid Instructions for the Feastday
of St. Patrick, Apostle of Ireland Newly Added
St. Patrick's Prayer Book

Novenas during the month of March

Novena to St. Patrick,
March 9th through March 17th Novena to St. Joseph,
March 11th through March 19th 30 Day Prayer to St. Joseph: Feb. 18th - Mar. 19th Novena to St. Gabriel,
March 16th through March 24th Novena for the Annunciation,
March 17th through March 25th Novena and Penitential Litany for Lent; The Prodigal Son--These devotions can be said at anytime during the entire season of Lent.

40 Days of Meditations for Lent by St. Thomas Aquinas Index for the Season of Lent Index of Children Prayers, Lent Index of Prayers for the Holy Souls in Purgatory Stations of the Cross The Psalter of Jesus Prayers and Devotions for the Holy Season of Lent The Church's Laws on Fasting and the Season of Lent

The Little Office of the Blessed Virgin Mary Joyful Mysteries Sorrowful Mysteries Glorious Mysteries

O God, Who didst deign to send blessed Patrick Thy Confessor and Bishop, to preach Thy glory to the nations: grant, through his merits and intercession, that what Thou commandest us to do, we may be Thy mercy be able to accomplish. Through our Lord Jesus Christ, Thy Son, Who liveth and reigneth with Thee in the unity of the Holy Ghost, one God, world without end. Amen.

(Roman Breviary)

If the virtue of children reflects an honor on their parents, much more justly is the name of St. Patrick rendered illustrious by the innumerable lights of sanctity with which the Church of Ireland shone during many ages, and by the colonies of Saints with which it peopled many foreign countries; for, under God, its inhabitants derived from their glorious apostle the streams of that eminent sanctity by which they were long conspicuous to the whole world.

St. Patrick was born towards the close of the fourth century, in a village called Bonaven Taberniae which seems to be the town of Kilpatrick, on the mouth of the river Clyde, in Scotland, between Dumbarton and Glasgow. He calls himself both a Briton and a Roman, or of a mixed extraction, and says his father was of a good family named Calphurnius, and a denizen of a neighboring city of the Romans, who not long after abandoned Britain, in 409. Some writers call his mother Conchessa, and say she was niece to St. Martin of Tours.

In his sixteenth year he was carried into captivity by certain barbarians, who took him into Ireland, where he was obliged to keep cattle on the mountains and in the forests, in hunger and nakedness, amidst snow, rain, and ice. Whilst he lived in this suffering condition, God had pity on his soul, and quickened him to a sense of his duty by the impulse of a strong interior grace. The young man had recourse to Him with his whole heart in fervent prayer and fasting; and from that time faith and the love of God acquired continually new strength in his tender soul. After six months spent in slavery under the same master, St. Patrick was admonished by God in a dream to return to his own country, and informed that a ship was then ready to sail thither. He went at once to the sea-coast, though at a great distance, and found the vessel; but could not obtain his passage, probably for want of money.

The Saint returned towards his hut, praying as he went; but the sailors, though pagans, called him back and took him on board. After three days� sail they made land, but wandered twenty-seven days through deserts, and were a long while distressed for want of provisions, finding nothing to eat. Patrick had often spoken to the company on the infinite power of God; they therefore asked him why he did not pray for relief. Animated by a strong faith, he assured them that if they would address themselves with their whole hearts to the true God He would hear and succor them. They did so, and on the same day met with a herd of swine. From that time provisions never failed them, till on the twenty-seventh day they came info a country that was cultivated and inhabited.

Some years afterwards he was again led captive, but recovered his liberty after two months. When he was at home with his parents, God manifested to him, by divers visions, that He destined him to the great work of the conversion of Ireland. The writers of his life say that after his second captivity he travelled into Gaul and Italy, and saw St. Martin, St. Germanus of Auxerre, and Pope Celestine, and that he received his mission and the apostolical benediction from this Pope, who died in 432. It is certain that he spent many years in preparing himself for his sacred calling. Great opposition was made against his episcopal consecration and mission, both by his own relatives and by the clergy. These made him great offers in order to detain him among them, and endeavored to affright him by exaggerating the dangers to which he exposed himself amidst the enemies of the Romans and Britons, who did not know God.

All these temptations threw the Saint into great perplexities; but the Lord, Whose will he consulted by earnest prayer, supported him, and he persevered in his resolution. He forsook his family, sold his birthright and dignity, to serve strangers, and consecrated his soul to God, to carry His name to the ends of the earth. In this disposition he passed into Ireland, to preach the Gospel, where the worship of idols still generally reigned. He devoted himself entirely to the salvation of these barbarians. He travelled over the whole island, penetrating into the remotest corners, and such was the fruit of his preachings and sufferings that he baptized an infinite number of people.

He ordained everywhere clergymen, induced women to live in holy widowhood and continence, consecrated virgins to Christ, and instituted monks. He took nothing from the many thousands whom he baptized, and often gave back the little presents which some laid on the altar, choosing rather to mortify the fervent than to scandalize the weak or the infidels. He gave freely of his own, however, both to pagans and Christians, distributed large alms to the poor in the provinces where he passed, made presents to the kings, judging that necessary for the progress of the Gospel, and maintained and educated many children, whom he trained up to serve at the altar. The happy success of his labors cost him many persecutions.

A certain prince named Corotick, a Christian in name only, disturbed the peace of his flock. This tyrant, having made a descent into Ireland, plundered the country where St. Patrick had been just conferring confirmation on a great number of neophytes, who were yet in their white garments after Baptism. Corotick massacred many, and carried away others, whom he sold to the infidel Picts or Scots. The next day the Saint sent the barbarian a letter entreating him to restore the Christian captives, and at least part of the booty he had taken, that the poor people might not perish for want, but was only answered by railleries.

The Saint, therefore, wrote with his own hand a letter. In it he styles himself a sinner and an ignorant man; he declares, nevertheless, that he is established Bishop of Ireland, and pronounces Corotick and the other parricides and accomplices separated from him and from Jesus Christ, Whose place he holds, forbidding any to eat with them, or to receive their alms, till they should have satisfied God by the tears of sincere penance, and restored the servants of Jesus Christ to their liberty. This letter expresses his most tender love for his flock, and his grief for those who had been slain, yet mingled with joy because they reign with the prophets, apostles, and martyrs. Jocelin assures us that Corotick was overtaken by the divine vengeance.

St. Patrick held several councils to settle the discipline of the Church which he had planted. St. Bernard and the tradition of the country testify that St. Patrick fixed his metropolitan see at Armagh. He established some other bishops, as appears by his Council and other monuments. He not only converted the whole country by his preaching and wonderful miracles, but also cultivated this vineyard with so fruitful a benediction and increase from heaven as to render Ireland a most flourishing garden in the Church of God, and a country of Saints.

Many particulars are related of the labors of St. Patrick, which we pass over. 'in the first year of his mission he attempted to preach Christ in the general assembly of the kings and states of all Ireland, held yearly at Tara, the residence of the chief king, styled the monarch of the whole island, and the principal seat of the Druids, or priests, and their paganish rites. The son of Neill, the chief monarch, declared himself against the preacher; however, Patrick converted several, and, on his road to that place, the father of St. Benignus, his immediate successor in the see of Armagh.

He afterwards converted and baptized the Icings of Dublin and Munster, and the seven sons of the king of Connaught, with the greatest part of their subjects, and before his death almost the whole island. He founded a monastery at Armagh; another called Domnach-Padraig, or Patrick's Church; also a third, named Sabhal-Padraig; and filled the country with churches and schools of piety and learning, the reputation of which, for the three succeeding centuries, drew many foreigners into Ireland. He died and was buried at Down in Ulster. His body was found there in a church of his name in 1185, and translated to another part of the same church.

Ireland is the nursery whence St. Patrick sent forth his missionaries and teachers. Glastonbury and Lindisfarne, Ripon and Malmesbury, bear testimony to the labors of Irish priests and bishops for the conversion of England. Iona is to this day the most venerated spot in Scotland. Columban, Fiacre, Gall, and many others evangelized the "rough places" of France and Switzerland. America and Australia, in modern times, owe their Christianity to the faith and zeal of the sons and daughters of St. Patrick.

Reflection.--By the instrumentality of St. Patrick the Faith is now as fresh in Ireland, even in this cold nineteenth century, as when it was first planted. Ask him to obtain for you the special grace of his children--to prefer the loss of every earthly good to the least compromise in matters of faith.

†

March 16th, Ferial Day of Fast

40 Days of Meditations for Lent by St. Thomas Aquinas Index for the Season of Lent Index of Children Prayers, Lent Novena and Penitential Litany for Lent; The Prodigal Son The Psalter of Jesus Prayers and Devotions for the Holy Season of Lent The Church's Laws on Fasting and the Season of Lent

Novenas during the month of March

Novena to St. Patrick,
March 9th through March 17th Novena to St. Joseph,
March 11th through March 19th 30 Day Prayer to St. Joseph: Feb. 18th - Mar. 19th Novena to St. Gabriel,
March 16th through March 24th Novena and Penitential Litany for Lent; The Prodigal Son--These devotions can be said at anytime during the entire season of Lent.

Index of Prayers for the Holy Souls in Purgatory The Little Office of the Blessed Virgin Mary Joyful Mysteries Sorrowful Mysteries Glorious Mysteries

Newly Added
On the Deplorable State of a Christian, who is Cold and Insensible with regard to Heaven

On the merciful
chastisements of God

by St. Alphonsus Liguori

God, being infinite goodness, desires only our good and to communicate to us His own happiness. When He chastises us, it is because we have obliged Him to do so by our sins. Hence the prophet Isaias says, that, on such occasions, He doth a work foreign to His desires. xxviii. 21. Hence it is that it is said, that it is the property of God to have mercy and to spare, to dispense His favours and to make all happy. O God, it is this Thy infinite goodness which sinners offend and despise, when they provoke Thee to chastise them. Wretch that I am, how often have I offended Thy infinite goodness!

Let us therefore understand that when God threatens us, it is not because He desires to punish us, but because He wishes to deliver us from punishment; He threatens, because He would have compassion on us. O God thou hast been angry, and hast had mercy on us. Ps. lix. 3. But how is this? He is angry with us, and treats us with mercy? Yes! He shows Himself angry towards us, in order that we may amend our lives, and that thus He maybe able to pardon and save us; hence, if in this life He chastise us for our sins, He does so in His mercy, for by so doing He frees us from eternal woe. How unfortunate then is the sinner who escapes punishment in this life!

Since then, O God, I have so much offended Thee, chastise me in this life, that Thou mayest spare me in the next. I know that I have certainly deserved hell; I accept all kinds of pain, that Thou mayest reinstate me in Thy grace and deliver me from hell, where I should be for ever separated from Thee. Enlighten and strengthen me to overcome every obstacle to Thy favour.

He who makes no account of the divine threats, ought much to fear lest the chastisement threatened in the Proverbs should suddenly overtake him: The man that with a stiff neck despiseth him that reproveth him, shall suddenly be destroyed; and health shall not follow him. xxix. 1. A sudden death shall overtake him that despises God's reprehensions, and he shall have no time to avoid eternal destruction.

This, O Jesus, has happened to many, and I indeed have deserved that the like should happen to me; but, O my Redeemer, Thou hast shown that mercy towards me which Thou hast not shown to many others who have offended thee less frequently than I have done, and who are now suffering in hell without the least hope of ever again being able to regain Thy favour. I know, O Lord, that Thou desirest my salvation, and I also desire it, that I may please Thee. I renounce all, and turn myself to Thee, who art my God, and my only good. I believe in Thee, I hope in Thee, I love Thee, and Thee alone. O infinite goodness, I am exceedingly displeased with myself for having hitherto done evil against Thee; and I wish that I had suffered every evil, rather than offended Thee. Suffer me not any more to depart from Thee, rather let me die than offer Thee so great an injury. In Thee, my crucified Jesus, do I place all my hopes. O Mary, mother of Jesus, recommend me to your Son.

†

March 15th, Ferial Day of Fast

40 Days of Meditations for Lent by St. Thomas Aquinas Index for the Season of Lent Index of Children Prayers, Lent Novena and Penitential Litany for Lent; The Prodigal Son The Psalter of Jesus Prayers and Devotions for the Holy Season of Lent The Church's Laws on Fasting and the Season of Lent

Novenas during the month of March

Novena to St. Patrick,
March 9th through March 17th Novena to St. Joseph,
March 11th through March 19th 30 Day Prayer to St. Joseph: Feb. 18th - Mar. 19th Novena and Penitential Litany for Lent; The Prodigal Son--These devotions can be said at anytime during the entire season of Lent.

Index of Prayers for the Holy Souls in Purgatory The Little Office of the Blessed Virgin Mary Joyful Mysteries Sorrowful Mysteries Glorious Mysteries

THE FEWNESS OF THOSE SAVED. WILL YOU BE ONE OF THEM?

On the Words of Christ: "Many
are called, but few are chosen."

First Point: Consider that, as St. Jerome says, Christ concluded His discourse with these words, because the touchstone of the spiritual life consists not so much in beginning as in ending well. This man condemned by the King for not having on a wedding garment, began well, obeying the Voice of God and coming to His banquet, not excusing himself as others had unreasonably done; but he ended ill, because he took not the pains to fulfil his duty by coming to the table of the Lord in suitable attire. Take warning from his example not to rely on former virtue, becoming careless in God's holy service and not persevering to the end, lest it happen to thee as to this guest, and, whilst thy companions are chosen and partake of the table of the Lord, thou be rejected and precipitated into hell.

Second Point: Consider, with St. John Chrysostom, that Christ spoke these words with reference to those who are called to the faith and chosen for heaven. Many are they who enter the Church, and few those elected to beatitude. Ponder this decree, and let thy soul be filled with awe and trembling, lest thou be one of the many; for there are numbers of the damned who were more virtuous on earth than thou. Consider how numerous are those now in hell who have not committed half so many sins as thou hast, and God has granted to thee this mercy of awaiting thy repentance which He bestowed not on them. Render Him infinite thanks for this incomparable benefit, and entreat of Him one more grace, that of His assistance to escape from sin, and to serve Him until death, so as to secure salvation.

Third Point: Consider, on the one hand, the infinite number of the damned, and the small number of the saved; and, on the other, how terrible a thing it is to be condemned for ever, to enter the eternal dungeons, to be deprived of God and of His light, to suffer with the devils, without relief or cessation; and how blessed is the lot of the predestined, who go to heaven to enjoy God without end! Then go a step farther, and ponder that of necessity one of these two very different fates must be thine, that the risk is great of its being that of the many, and it were great good fortune should it be that of the few. Humble thyself to the very dust of the earth with fear and trembling, beseeching God to hold thee by the hand, and not to suffer thee to be of the number of the majority, but of the few who merit to eat at His table in His kingdom. Ponder the behaviour of the Apostles, when Christ told them that one of their would betray Him; and although the consciences of the eleven did not accuse them, they all trembled and feared, saying, "Is it I?" What, then, would they have said, and how great would have been their alarm, had they been told that many would commit that crime, since they were so distressed to learn that it was to be perpetrated by a single one? Behold, then, how much reason thou hast for fear, knowing that many will be condemned and few saved, and see how it becomes thee to always live in fear, lamenting, and ever on thy guard, lest so miserable a fate be thine; for, were it to threaten but one only person in the world, there would still be great cause for us all to live in dread.

Fourth Point: Consider the reasons why so many are lost and so few saved, which may all be reduced to one universal cause, namely, that the greater number of persons live ill, and the smaller number live well. There are few who are fervent and serve God after the manner of the elect, whilst the tepid and lukewarm are numerous. Many are they whom the greed of temporal things renders blind, and few those who have eyes to see and covet spiritual and eternal wealth: therefore the chosen ones are few, and the reprobate many. Bewail, then, the blindness of the world and the very considerable number of souls who go to perdition, for the sake of that which is so valueless; for, as the Wise Man tells us, their number is infinite and unlimited. Cry aloud to the Lord to open their eyes that, seeing their peril, they may correct themselves; beg this grace especially for thyself, and implore light to see what is lacking to thee. Beg of God one spark of Divine love, in order to despise what is earthly, and to covet what is heavenly, and great fervour wherewith to serve Him perseveringly, after the manner of His elect, so as to merit a place in their midst.

†

March 14th, Ferial Day of Fast

40 Days of Meditations for Lent by St. Thomas Aquinas Index for the Season of Lent Index of Children Prayers, Lent Novena and Penitential Litany for Lent; The Prodigal Son The Psalter of Jesus Prayers and Devotions for the Holy Season of Lent The Church's Laws on Fasting and the Season of Lent

Novenas during the month of March

Novena to St. Patrick,
March 9th through March 17th Novena to St. Joseph,
March 11th through March 19th 30 Day Prayer to St. Joseph: Feb. 18th - Mar. 19th Novena and Penitential Litany for Lent; The Prodigal Son--These devotions can be said at anytime during the entire season of Lent.

Index of Prayers for the Holy Souls in Purgatory The Little Office of the Blessed Virgin Mary Joyful Mysteries Sorrowful Mysteries Glorious Mysteries

WHAT WE MUST DO
TO GAIN HEAVEN

And they that are Christ's have crucified their flesh, with the vices and concupiscences (Galat. v. 24).

Consider first, what is the mark of being dear to Christ. It is not being a worker of miracles, a preacher, a prophet, a doctor of the world; but it is being greatly mortified, a thing which all can attain by the grace of God, if they will. See, therefore, how much mortification should be esteemed.

Consider secondly, that this mortification is called crucifixion: "They have crucified." First, because he who mortifies himself should do it out of devotion to his Lord, that is, to make himself like Him on the Cross. Secondly, because mortification must be stable, solid, not inconstant like that of some. He who is nailed remains immoveable on the Cross, like Jesus, Who did not descend from it until He was taken down. Thirdly, because mortification should be painful, as the crucifixion of Christ was. He who is nailed to the Cross suffers much greater pain than he who is only bound to it. See whether thou thinkest that thy mortification is of this sort.

Consider thirdly, that it does not say, "They have crucified their vices and concupiscences," but, "Their flesh, with the vices and concupiscences," because he who does not go to the root of the evil is not a good doctor. The flesh is the root of all the evils which the soul suffers, and therefore if we wish to be perfectly cured we must subdue the flesh. What corporal penances dost thou do? Dost thou try to subdue the flesh, or dost thou not rather pamper it?

Consider fourthly, that it does not say the flesh alone, but the flesh with all the rest; because exterior mortification is worth little if it is not accompanied at the same time with interior. Indeed, the former ought to be regulated by the latter. What does it avail to take away that which was not the cause of the fever, if the fever itself, which is already in the veins, is not taken away at the same time?

Consider fifthly, what the things that thou shouldst destroy by this interior mortification are--the vices and concupiscences. The vices are the sins, the concupiscences are the passions. For if thou attackest the sins only, thou dost nothing; thou must also attack the passions; first, indeed, the sins, by cleansing the soul, then the passions, by putting it in order. Which are the passions that predominate in thee? Try to know them that thou mayest mortify them, so that if they live, at least they may live on the Cross.

Consider sixthly, that nevertheless it does not say, "With the sins and concupiscences," but, "With the vices." Peccata are actual sins, vitia habitual sins. It is difficult to get so far, by the exercise of mortification, as not to commit a single actual sin, however small, but not so to avoid retaining any vice. Therefore thou must mortify the vices above all, whether they be little or great, not content with making them live on the Cross like the passions, but making them die there. And this also thou mayest attain to with the grace of God.

†

March 13th, Ferial Day of Fast

40 Days of Meditations for Lent by St. Thomas Aquinas Index for the Season of Lent Index of Children Prayers, Lent Novena and Penitential Litany for Lent; The Prodigal Son The Psalter of Jesus Prayers and Devotions for the Holy Season of Lent The Church's Laws on Fasting and the Season of Lent

Novenas during the month of March

Novena to St. Patrick,
March 9th through March 17th Novena to St. Joseph,
March 11th through March 19th 30 Day Prayer to St. Joseph: Feb. 18th - Mar. 19th Novena and Penitential Litany for Lent; The Prodigal Son--These devotions can be said at anytime during the entire season of Lent.

Index of Prayers for the Holy Souls in Purgatory The Little Office of the Blessed Virgin Mary Joyful Mysteries Sorrowful Mysteries Glorious Mysteries

St. John Vianney: On Suffering

For that which is at present momentary and light of our tribulation worketh for us above measure exceedingly an eternal weight of glory. While we look not at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen. For the things which are seen are temporal, but the things which are not seen, are eternal (2 Cor. iv. 17, 18).

Consider first, that it is not any tribulation, but "that what is at present our tribulation," because if thou regardest tribulation which is past it does not give pain now, and therefore there is no occasion so much as to mention it. If thou regardest present tribulation, "that which is at present," what is it? "Momentary and light;" it is indeed an evil, but a momentary, that is a very brief one, especially if thou comparest it with eternity. And it is light also: light with respect to the faults for which thou hast to atone, light with respect to the grace which is granted thee to endure it, and light with respect to the reward, which is prepared for thee if thou bearest it patiently.

Consider secondly, above all, how great will be the good that this little evil will yield to thee, "above measure" and "exceedingly." "Above measure," because it will be immeasurable, that is to say, very far superior to all thy merits. For, although it is said that the Lord "judgeth according to every one's work," this "according" does not denote equality of quantity, as though each person were to enjoy precisely as much as he has suffered, but it denotes equality of proportion, so that he who suffered most enjoys most. "Exceedingly," because it will not be like the goods of this world, subject to various changes, but it will be placed on the summit of the true Olympus, immutable and imperturbable. "I will lift thee up above the high places of the earth," where no evil of any kind will come. Besides this it will be eternal. "Eternal" as opposed to momentary; and it will be like a very heavy "weight" as opposed to a light one. These are the four prerogatives that especially belong to the glory of Paradise: it is superabundant, it is unchangeable, it is eternal, it is weighty.

Consider thirdly, the reason why this glory, which is, in one word, the clear vision of God, is called a weight. Not, certainly, because it will ever become heavy to any one, for after millions of centuries it will be ever new, most blissful, most joyful; but because it contains so exceeding a gladness, that human strength would soon be oppressed by it if it were not invigorated by the strength which is given to it by the light of glory. Or it may mean that it is like a weight, because as a weight draws to itself all things which are attached to it, so this glory will draw to itself the whole being of the blessed in Heaven, in such a manner that, not being able to resist so mighty an attraction, it will be compelled, with all its faculties, to yield to it, and so to become all glorious, both in body and soul.

Consider fourthly, that it is not said that tribulation will bring thee so much glory, but that actually it produces it for thee in thyself--" Worketh for us"--not indeed as a physical, but as a moral cause; and not as an efficient, but as a meritorious cause. From which thou oughtest clearly to understand that this same glory is not a gift, as some would have it, but a reward, although indeed a superabundant reward. Think, therefore, that as God once placed Adam in the terrestrial Paradise "to dress it and keep it," so too He places in thee tribulation, poverty, ignominy, infirmity, that they may form in thee a paradise, though a much better, because a heavenly one. Let them do their work therefore, because the measure of thy reward will be in proportion to the merit they produce in thee by the trouble they cause thee. Would not the earth be foolish to complain of the labourer as unmerciful for maltreating it with the pickaxe, the spade, and the ploughshare?

Consider fifthly, the means which will help thee to suffer willingly all those trials which come to thee through tribulation. Look at those invisible, that is to say heavenly goods, of which we have spoken. Oh! how the hope of them will animate thee. But it is not enough merely to glance at them from time to time; it is necessary to contemplate them, that is, to gaze at them with special attention. Nay, even this is not enough, but it is also necessary, at the same time, not to look at visible, that is to say, earthly goods, because the sight of them fascinates the soul, distracts and diverts it, so that it is not altogether occupied with heavenly things. For it is not "while we look at the things which are not seen," but it is "while we look not at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen." Both our eyes must be fixed on heaven.

Consider sixthly, how right it is that thou shouldst contemplate heavenly goods and that thou shouldst not contemplate earthly goods, since the former are eternal and the latter are transitory: "For the things which are seen are temporal, but the things which are not seen are eternal." Wilt thou, then, stand so long gazing at things which pass away? Thou laughest at the rustic who stops to gaze at the river rushing past with great velocity. But what are all visible things? Are they not just like such a river? Let them go.

†

March 12th, Second Sunday of Lent and St. Gregory the Great, Pope and Doctor of the Church

The Transfiguratioin of our Lord gives us an idea of the beauty of a soul in the state of sanctifying grace. "This is the will of God, your sanctification." It must be our firm determination to preserve the divine life of the soul, at any price.

2nd Sunday in Lent How to become a Saint 2nd Sunday in Lent; Transfiguration Prayers Second Sunday of Lent: Epistle and Gospel Children's Sermon for the Second Sunday in Lent 40 Days of Meditations for Lent by St. Thomas Aquinas Index for the Season of Lent Index of Children Prayers, Lent Novena and Penitential Litany for Lent; The Prodigal Son The Psalter of Jesus Prayers and Devotions for the Holy Season of Lent The Church's Laws on Fasting and the Season of Lent

St. Gregory the Great Litany of the Saints

Novenas during the month of March

Novena to St. Patrick,
March 9th through March 17th Novena to St. Joseph,
March 11th through March 19th 30 Day Prayer to St. Joseph: Feb. 18th - Mar. 19th Novena and Penitential Litany for Lent; The Prodigal Son--These devotions can be said at anytime during the entire season of Lent.

Index of Prayers for the Holy Souls in Purgatory The Little Office of the Blessed Virgin Mary Joyful Mysteries Sorrowful Mysteries Glorious Mysteries

O God, Who seest us to be destitute of all strength, do Thou both inwardly and outwardly keep us; that in body we may be defended from all adversities, and in mind cleansed from evil thoughts. Through our Lord Jesus Christ, Thy Son, Who liveth and reigneth with Thee in the unity of the Holy Ghost, one God, world without end. Amen.

(Roman Breviary)

The Transfiguration of our Lord gives us an idea of the beauty of a soul in the state of sanctifying grace. "This is the will of God, your sanctification." It must be our firm determination to preserve the divine life of our soul, at any price.

In today's Epistle, the Apostle shows what manner of life should be followed by Christians; and the Church, by repeating his words, exhorts the Faithful to profit of the present Season of grace, and regain all the beauty of the image of God, which the grace of Baptism first gave them. A Christian is a vessel of honour, formed and enriched by the hand of God; let him, therefore, shun whatsoever would degrade his noble origin, and turn him into a vessel of dishonor, fit only to be broken and cast with the unclean into the sink of hell.

The Christian Religion has so far ennobled man, that even his very body may share in the soul's sanctity; on the other hand, she teaches us, that this sanctity of the soul is impaired, yea, altogether effaced, by the loss of the body's purity. The whole man, therefore, both body and soul, is to be reformed by the practices of this holy Season. Let us purify the soul by the confession of our sins, by compunction of heart, by the love of God; and let us give back its dignity to the Body, by making it bear the yoke of penance, that so it may be, henceforth, subservient and docile to the Soul, and, on the day of the general Resurrection, partake in her endless bliss.

O God, Who hast given to the soul of Thy servant Gregory, the rewards of everlasting bliss, mercifully grant, that we, who are oppressed by the weight of our sins, may be relieved by his intercession with Thee. Through our Lord Jesus Christ, Thy Son, Who liveth and reigneth with Thee in the unity of the Holy Ghost, one God, world without end. Amen.

O God, Who for his merits didst make the blessed pontiff Gregory the equal of Thy saints; grant us this boon, that we who keep high festival in memory of him may also reproduce the pattern of his life: through our Lord. etc. Amen.

(Roman Breviary)

Gregory was a Roman of noble birth, and while still young was governor of Rome. On his father's death he gave his great wealth to the poor, turned his house on the Coelian Hill into a monastery, which now bears his name, and for some years lived as a perfect monk. The Pope drew him from his seclusion to make him one of the seven deacons of Rome; and he did great service to the Church for many years as what we now call Nuncio to the Imperial court at Constantinople. While still a monk the saint was struck with some boys who were exposed for sale in Rome, and heard with sorrow that they were pagans. "And of what race are they?" he asked. "They are Angles." "Worthy indeed to be Angels of God," said he. "And of what province?" "Of Deira," was the reply. "Truly must we rescue them from the wrath of God. And what is the name of their king?" "He is called Ella." "It is well," said Gregory; "Alleluia must be sung in their land to God."

He at once got leave from the Pope, and had set out to convert the English when the murmurs of the people led the Pope to recall him. Still the Angles were not forgotten, and one of the Saint's first cares as Pope was to send from his own monastery St. Augustine and other monks to England. On the death of Pope Pelagius II., Gregory was compelled to take the government of the Church, and for fourteen years his pontificate was a perfect model of ecclesiastical rule. He healed schisms; revived discipline; saved Italy by converting the wild Arian Lombards who were laying it waste; aided in the conversion of the Spanish and French Goths, who were also Arians; and kindled anew in Britain the light of the Faith, which the English had put out in blood. He set in order the Church's prayers and chant, guided and consoled her pastors with innumerable letters, and preached incessantly, most effectually by his own example. He died A. D. 604, worn out by austerities and toils; and the Church reckons him one of her four great doctors, and reveres him as St. Gregory the Great.

Reflection.--The champions of faith prove the truth of their teaching no less by the holiness of their lives than by the force of their arguments. Never forget that to con Pert others you must first see to your own soul.

†

March 11th, Ferial Day of Fast. Ember Saturday

Ember Day Reflection

Since not a moment passes in life in which we do not experience the goodness of God, we owe Him gratitude. Saint Paul instructs us: "In all things give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus regarding you all" (1 Thess. 5:18). Not only should we thank God for the particular benefits received each day, but we should also give thanks for our creation, for our redemption, and for the gift of faith.

40 Days of Meditations for Lent by St. Thomas Aquinas Index for the Season of Lent Index of Children Prayers, Lent The Psalter of Jesus Prayers and Devotions for the Holy Season of Lent The Church's Laws on Fasting and the Season of Lent

Novenas during the month of March

Novena to St. Patrick,
March 9th through March 17th Novena to St. Joseph,
March 11th through March 19th 30 Day Prayer to St. Joseph: Feb. 18th - Mar. 19th Novena and Penitential Litany for Lent; The Prodigal Son--These devotions can be said at anytime during the entire season of Lent.

Index of Prayers for the Holy Souls in Purgatory The Little Office of the Blessed Virgin Mary Joyful Mysteries Sorrowful Mysteries Glorious Mysteries

Related links for the Sacrament of Penance

The Idolatry of the Creature Due to Impurity The Vice of Lust: The Folly of Impure Desires of Sensual Pleasures Sacrament of Penance The Sacrament of Penance, All of Your Questions Answered Examination of Conscience Rite of Confession General Confession The Necessity of Avoiding Occasions of Sin
by St. Alphonsus Liguori Contrition and the Purpose of Amendment
by St. Alphonsus Liguori Contrition The False Peace of a Sinful Conscience, by Fr. Hunolt, 1691-1746 Render an Account of Your Life: A Must Read for Every Soul The Conversion of Sinners Penitent's Consolation The Nature of Sin Conscience Index of the Ten Commandments Sermon on Keeping the 10 Commandments The Conversion of Sinners The Necessity of Prayer for Sinners

We Must Resolve by the Gracy of God to Renounce Our Sins and to Begin a New Life for the Future

There can be no real sorrow for what we are going to take no pains to avoid. If you are really sorry for having offended God by such and such a fault, you will take reasonable care not to offend Him by repeating that fault.

Remember we have to make a purpose of amendment. Now a purpose is not a mere passing wish, it is a strong intention or determination, it is the making up of our mind about something. Clearly then it needs time and thought. This purpose, as has been said is really part of our act of contrition, for there can be no true sorrow for the wrong we have done unless we intend not to do it again. Indeed, one of the ways of testing the reality of our contrition is to see if we are going to take any pains to do better for the time to come. The purpose of amendment we are bound to have is a firm determination to avoid all mortal sin and the proximate occasions of mortal sin.

Any circumstance leading to sin is called an occasion of sin. It may be proximate or remote. A proximate occasion is one which usually leads us into sin. A remote occasion is one in which we sometimes though seldom commit sin. Persons, places, and things may all become occasions of sin, some to one person, some to another. Certain things, such as bad companions, improper conversations, bad books, are always proximate occasions of sin. Each one of us is strictly bound to avoid what is a proximate occasion of mortal sin to him. Sometimes by means of prayer, a more frequent use of the sacraments, and other precautions, a proximate occasion may be made remote. But should there be any person, place, or thing which, no matter what we do, always leads us into mortal sin, we are bound to keep away from it at any cost. Our Lord says, "If thy hand or thy foot scandalize thee," --that is, if something you care for as much as hand or foot, leads you to commit sin--"cut it off and cast it from thee. It is better for thee to go into life maimed or lame, than having two hands or two feet to be cast into everlasting fire." (Matt. 18.)

We should, of course, resolve to avoid venial sins too, and if we have these only to confess we should pick out one at least and make a firm resolve about that. If you cannot make up your mind what to choose, think what our Lord would advise, and you will make a good choice.

To be of any use, a resolution must be sensible. Here is one that is not sensible: "I am never going to commit a sin again. I am going to be bad in nothing and good in everything." The devil laughs at a resolution like that. But if instead of this I say-- "I will avoid that dangerous occasion--I will say this aspiration when I am tempted--I will watch over myself at such a time, or when talking to such a person, so as to avoid that fault--I will try to lessen the number of times I fall ; and when I do fall I will come back to God at once with an act of sorrow or love, and try again as if nothing had happened"--oh, the devil does not laugh at this. He cannot afford to laugh. For this means great loss to him, the overthrow of all his plans. Any one keeping resolutions such as these will come safely out of all his temptations and march over him up to a high place in heaven.

Remember lastly, we are to resolve by the grace of God to renounce our sins. We cannot do it of ourselves, by our own strength. But God has promised to help us always if we ask Him. It need hardly be said that if our sorrow and purpose of amendment are sincere, we shall be ready to do what is necessary to get our sins forgiven and to amend our life. To refuse to forgive one who has offended us, to give back ill-gotten goods, to restore as far as we can a good name where we have taken it away by calumny or detraction, would prove that we are not really sorry for our sins, and therefore not in fit dispositions to receive the Sacrament of Penance.

Just before going into the confessional, make another hearty act of sorrow for all the sins you are about to confess, and for some sin of your past life for which you are truly sorry. This confession of a past sin is a most excellent practice, if we remember it is done for the sake of arousing contrition. But nothing can be more useless--to say the least--than to confess it merely by routine. Hence it is well in our act of contrition to clearly include this sin.

†

March 10th, Forty Holy Martyrs. Day of Fast and Abstinence. Ember Friday.

The Forty Martyrs The Sin Unto Death
by Cardinal Manning The Providence of God and why He permits evil How Catholics lose the Faith by Fr. Michael Muller Why the World Continually Persecutes the Church

Ember Day Reflection

Since not a moment passes in life in which we do not experience the goodness of God, we owe Him gratitude. Saint Paul instructs us: "In all things give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus regarding you all" (1 Thess. 5:18). Not only should we thank God for the particular benefits received each day, but we should also give thanks for our creation, for our redemption, and for the gift of faith.

40 Days of Meditations for Lent by St. Thomas Aquinas Index for the Season of Lent Index of Children Prayers, Lent Prayers and Devotions for the Holy Season of Lent The Steps of Our Savior's Passion Stations of the Cross The Church's Laws on Fasting and the Season of Lent The Psalter of Jesus

Novenas during the month of March

Novena to St. Patrick,
March 9th through March 17th Novena to St. Joseph,
March 11th through March 19th 30 Day Prayer to St. Joseph: Feb. 18th - Mar. 19th Novena and Penitential Litany for Lent; The Prodigal Son--These devotions can be said at anytime during the entire season of Lent.

Index of Prayers for the Holy Souls in Purgatory The Little Office of the Blessed Virgin Mary Joyful Mysteries Sorrowful Mysteries Glorious Mysteries

Grant, we beseech Thee, almighty God: that we who acknowledge the boldness of Thy glorious Martyrs in confessing Thy name, may enjoy their loving intercession for us before Thee. Through our Lord Jesus Christ, Thy Son, Who liveth and reigneth with Thee in the unity of the Holy Ghost, one God, world without end. Amen.

(Roman Breviary)

The Forty Martyrs of Sebaste were soldiers quartered at Sebaste in Armenia, about the year 320. When their legion was ordered to offer sacrifice they separated themselves from the rest and formed a company of martyrs. After they had been torn by scourges and iron hooks they were chained together and led to a lingering death. It was a cruel winter, and they were condemned to lie naked on the icy surface of a pond in the open air till they were frozen to death. But they ran undismayed to the place of their combat, joyfully stripped off their garments, and with one voice besought God to keep their Ranks unbroken. "Forty," they cried, "we have come to combat: grant that forty may be crowned." There were warm baths near by, ready for any one amongst them who would deny Christ.

The soldiers who watched saw angels descending with thirty-nine crowns, and, while he wondered at the deficiency in the number, one of the confessors lost heart, renounced his faith, and, crawling to the fire, died body and soul at the spot where he expected relief. But the soldier was inspired to confess Christ and take his place, and again the number of forty was complete. They remained steadfast while their limbs grew stiff and frozen, and died one by one. Among the Forty there was a young soldier who held out longest against the cold, and when the officers came to cart away the dead bodies they found him still breathing. They were moved with pity, and wanted to leave him alive in the hope that he would still change his mind. But his mother stood by, and this valiant woman could not bear to see her son separated from the band of martyrs. She exhorted him to persevere, and lifted his frozen body into the cart. He was just able to make a sign of recognition, and was borne away, to be thrown into the flames with the dead bodies of his brethren.

†

March 9th, St. Frances of Rome, Widow. Day of Fast.

In some places, St. Dominic Savio's feast day is celebrated on March 9th.

St. Frances of Rome, Widow Duties of Marriage Your Guardian Angel
throughout life

The Life of St. Dominic Savio, Child Saint St. Dominic Savio, Patron of First Communicants

40 Days of Meditations for Lent by St. Thomas Aquinas Index for the Season of Lent Index of Children Prayers, Lent Index of Prayers for the Holy Souls in Purgatory Prayers and Devotions for the Holy Season of Lent The Church's Laws on Fasting and the Season of Lent

The Little Office of the Blessed Virgin Mary Joyful Mysteries Sorrowful Mysteries Glorious Mysteries Meditations on St. Joseph for the Month of March

Novenas during the month of March

Novena to St. Patrick,
March 9th through March 17th Novena to St. Joseph,
March 11th through March 19th 30 Day Prayer to St. Joseph: Feb. 18th - Mar. 19th Novena and Penitential Litany for Lent; The Prodigal Son--These devotions can be said at anytime during the entire season of Lent.

O God, Who among other gifts of Thy grace, didst honor blessed Frances, Thy servant, with the familiar presence of an angel; grant, we beseech Thee, that by the help of her intercession, we may become worthy of being admitted into fellowship with the angels. Through our Lord Jesus Christ, Thy Son, Who liveth and reigneth with Thee in the unity of the Holy Ghost, one God, world without end. Amen.

V. With thy comeliness and thy beauty.

R. Set out, proceed prosperously, and reign.

Ant. The kingdom of heaven is like a merchant in search of good pearls. When he finds a single one of great price, he gives all that he has and buys it.

(Roman Breviary)

Frances was born at Rome in 1384. Her parents were, of high rank. They overruled her desire to become a nun, and at twelve years of age married her to Rorenzo Ponziano, a Roman noble. During the forty years or their married life they never had a disagreement. While spending her days in retirement and prayer, she attended promptly to every household duty, saying, "A married woman must leave God at the altar to find Him in her domestic cares;" and she once found the verse of a psalm in which she had been four times thus interrupted completed for her in letters of gold.

Her ordinary food was dry bread. Secretly she would exchange with beggars good food for their hard crusts; her drink was water, and her cup a human skull. During the invasion of Rome, in 1413, Ponziano was banished, his estates confiscated, his house destroyed, and his eldest son taken as a hostage. Frances saw in these losses only the finger of God, and blessed His holy name. When peace was restored Ponziano recovered his estate, and Frances founded the Oblates.

After her husband's death, barefoot and with a cord about her neck she begged admission to the community, and was soon elected Superioress. She lived always in the presence of God, and amongst many visions was given constant sight of her angel guardian, who shed such brightness around him that the Saint could read her midnight Office by this light alone. He shielded her in the hour of temptation, and directed her in every good act. But when she was betrayed into some defect, he faded from her sight; and when some light words were spoken before her, he covered his face in shame. She died on the day she had foretold, March 9, 1440.

Reflection.--God has appointed an angel to guard each one of us, to whose warnings we are bound to attend. Let us listen to his voice here, and we shall see him hereafter when he leads us before the throne of God.

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March 8th, St. John of God, Confessor. Day of Fast. Ember Wednesday

Litany and Life of St. John of God, Patron of the Sick and Dying Index of Prayers and
Devotions for the Sick Index of Prayers and
Devotions for the Dying Jesus Christ, Our Physician Practice During Lent.html 40 Days of Meditations for Lent by St. Thomas Aquinas Prayers and Devotions for the Holy Season of Lent The Church's Laws on Fasting and the Season of Lent 30 Day Prayer to St. Joseph: Feb. 18th - Mar. 19th Meditations on St. Joseph for the Month of March

The Little Office of the Blessed Virgin Mary Joyful Mysteries Sorrowful Mysteries Glorious Mysteries

O God, Who didst let blessed John, when burning with Thy love, to walk through flames unscathed, and by his means didst beget new offspring for Thy Church: grant, through the help of his merits that our vices may be healed by the fire of Thy love and that we may receive remedies unto life everlasting. Through our Lord Jesus Christ, Thy Son, Who liveth and reigneth with Thee in the unity of the Holy Ghost, one God, world without end. Amen.

(Roman Breviary)

Nothing in John's early life foreshadowed his future sanctity. He ran away as a boy from his home in Portugal, tended sheep and cattle in Spain, and served as a soldier against the French, and afterwards against the Turks. When about forty years of age, feeling remorse for his wild life, he resolved to devote himself to the ransom of the Christian slaves in Africa, and went thither with the family of an exiled noble, which he maintained by his labor. On his return to Spain he sought to do good by selling holy pictures and books at low prices. At length the hour of grace struck.

At Granada a sermon by the celebrated John of Avila shook his soul to its depths, and his expressions of self-abhorrence were so extraordinary that he was taken to the asylum as one mad. There he employed himself in ministering to the sick. On leaving he began to collect homeless poor, and to support them by his work and by begging. One night St. John found in the streets a poor man who seemed near death, and, as was his wont, he carried him to the hospital, laid him on a bed, and went to fetch water to wash his feet. When he had washed them, he knelt to kiss them, and started with awe: the feet were pierced, and the print of the nails bright with an unearthly radiance. He raised his eyes to look, and heard the words, "John, to Me thou doest all that thou doest to the poor in My name: I reach forth My hand for the alms thou givest; Me dost thou clothe, Mine are the feet thou dost wash." And then the gracious vision disappeared, leaving St. John filled at once with confusion and consolation.

The bishop became the Saint's patron, and gave him the name of John of God. When his hospital was on fire, John was seen rushing about uninjured amidst the flames until he had rescued all his poor. After ten years spent in the service of the suffering, the Saint's life was fitly closed. He plunged into the river Xenil to save a drowning boy, and died, 1550, of an illness brought on by the attempt, at the age of fifty-five.

Reflection.--God often rewards men for works that are pleasing in His sight by giving them grace and opportunity to do other works higher still. St. John of God used to attribute his conversion, and the graces which enabled him to do such great works, to his self-denying charity in Africa.

†

March 7th, St. Thomas Aquinas, Confessor and Doctor of the Church. Day of Fast.

St. Thomas Aquinas Prayers and Devotions
40 Days of Meditations for Lent by St. Thomas Aquinas

Related Links to St. Thomas Aquinas:

The Sixth Commandment: Explained by St. Thomas Aquinas Corpus Christi What is the Sin Against the Holy Ghost Temptations and the Devils who Tempt What Cannot and What Can Be Reformed in the Church. What Every Christian Must Believe and Do to be Saved. The Value and Necessity of Christian Doctrine

Index for the Season of Lent The Church's Laws on Fasting and the Season of Lent Index of Children Prayers, Lent Novena and Penitential Litany for Lent; The Prodigal Son--These devotions can be said at anytime during the entire season of Lent. Prayers and Devotions for the Holy Season of Lent 30 Day Prayer to St. Joseph: Feb. 18th - Mar. 19th Meditations on St. Joseph for the Month of March

Index of Prayers for the Holy Souls in Purgatory Index of Prayers and
Devotions for the Sick The Little Office of the Blessed Virgin Mary Joyful Mysteries Sorrowful Mysteries Glorious Mysteries

O God, Who by the wonderful learning of blessed Thomas, Thy Confessor, givest glory to Thy Church, and by his holy deeds makest her fruitful: grant, we beseech Thee, that we may both perceive with the understanding what he taught and follow his example in what he practiced. Through our Lord Jesus Christ, Thy Son, Who liveth and reigneth with Thee in the unity of the Holy Ghost, one God, world without end. Amen.

(Roman Breviary)

St. Thomas was born of noble parents at Aquino in Italy, in 1226. At the age of nineteen he received the Dominican habit at Naples, where he was studying. Seized by his brothers on his way to Paris, he suffered a two years' captivity in their castle of Rocca-Secca; but neither the caresses of his mother and sisters, nor the threats and stratagems of his brothers, could shake him in his vocation. While St. Thomas was in confinement at Rocca-Secca, his brothers endeavored to entrap him into sin, but the attempt only ended in the triumph of his purity. Snatching from the hearth a burning brand, the Saint drove from his chamber the wretched creature whom they had there concealed. Then marking a cross upon the wall, he knelt down to pray, and forthwith, being rapt in ecstasy, an angel girded him with a cord, in token of the gift of perpetual chastity which God had given him. The pain caused by the girdle was so sharp that St. Thomas uttered a piercing cry, which brought his guards into the room. But he never told this grace to any one save only to Father Raynald, his confessor, a little while before his death. Hence originated the Confraternity of the "Angelic Warfare," for the preservation of the virtue of chastity.

Having at length escaped, St. Thomas went to Cologne to study under Blessed Albert the Great, and after that to Paris, where for many years he taught philosophy and theology. The Church has ever venerated his numerous writings as a treasure-house of sacred doctrine (ex. Summa Theologica); while in naming him the Angelic Doctor she has indicated that his science is more divine than human. The rarest gifts of intellect were combined in him with the tenderest piety.

Prayer, he said, had taught him more than study. His singular devotion to the Blessed Sacrament shines forth in the Office and hymns for Corpus Christi, which he composed. To the words miraculously uttered by a crucifix at Naples, "Well hast thou written concerning Me, Thomas. What shall I give thee as a reward?" he replied, "Naught save Thyself, O Lord." He died at Fossa-Nuova, 1274, on his way to the General Council of Lyons, to which Pope Gregory X. had summoned him.

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March 6th, Sts. Felicitas and Perpetua, Martyrs

Ss. Perpetua and Felicitas, Martyrs What is it to be a Mother? Duties of Parents Are we bound to profess our Catholic Faith openly? Index for the Season of Lent Index of Children Prayers, Lent Novena and Penitential Litany for Lent; The Prodigal Son Prayers and Devotions for the Holy Season of Lent The Church's Laws on Fasting and the Season of Lent Meditations for Lent by
St. Thomas Aquinas The Necessity of Mortification 30 Day Prayer to St. Joseph: Feb. 18th - Mar. 19th Index of Prayers for the Holy Souls in Purgatory The Little Office of the Blessed Virgin Mary Joyful Mysteries Sorrowful Mysteries Glorious Mysteries

Grant, we beseech thee, O Lord our God, that we may reverence with unceasing devotion the triumphs of Thy holy Martyrs, Perpetura and Felicitas, and although we cannot pay them the honor that is their due, let us at least present to them our humble service. Through our Lord Jesus Christ, Thy Son, Who liveth and reigneth with Thee in the unity of the Holy Ghost, one God, world without end. Amen.

(Roman Breviary)

†

March 5th,
First Sunday of Lent

First Sunday in Lent Sermons by Fr. Francis Xavier Weninger First Sunday of Lent: Epistle and Gospel, Instructions for Lent Children's Sermon for the First Sunday in Lent Index for the Season of Lent

A Series of Links on
Temptations and the Devil

Manner of Hearing Mass At Home: For those who on account of sickness, old age, or for other proper reasons cannot assist at holy Mass, especially on Sundays and Holidays Spiritual Communion Prayers and Devotions for the Holy Season of Lent The Church's Laws on Fasting and the Season of Lent Meditations for Lent by
St. Thomas Aquinas The Necessity of Mortification Novena and Penitential Litany for Lent; The Prodigal Son 30 Day Prayer to St. Joseph: Feb. 18th - Mar. 19th Index of Prayers for the Holy Souls in Purgatory The Little Office of the Blessed Virgin Mary Joyful Mysteries Sorrowful Mysteries Glorious Mysteries

O God, Who dost purify Thy Church by the yearly observance of forty days; grant to Thy household that what we strive to obtain from Thee by self denial, we may secure by good works. Through our Lord Jesus Christ, Thy Son, Who liveth and reigneth with Thee in the unity of the Holy Ghost, one God, world without end. Amen.

(Roman Breviary)

Originally the forty days of penance were counted from this Sunday. The liturgical gathering of the " station " takes place to-day, as it was since the fourth century, at Saint John Lateran, which is the patriarchal basilica of the Bishops of Rome, At its first consecration, it was dedicated to " Saint Saviour," a name which calls to mind the Redemption accomplished by our Blessed Lord.

Immediately after His baptism, our Lord began to prepare for His public life by a fast of forty days in the mountainous desert which stretches between Jericho and the mountains of Judea. It was there that He was tempted by Satan, who wished to discover whether the son of Mary was in reality the Son of God (Gospel). As in the case of Adam, he adresses his first attack to the senses. Our Lord is hungry and the tempter suggests to Him that He should turn stones into bread. In the same way he tries, during these forty days, to make us give up our fasting and mortification. This is the concupiscence of the flesh.

The devil had promised our first parent that he should be as God. Now he takes our Lord to the pinnacle of the Temple and tries to induce Him to let Himself be carried by the angels through the air amidst the applause of the crowds below. Satan tempts us by pride, which is opposed to the spirit of prayer and meditation on God's word. This is the pride of life.

Finally, just as he had promised Adam a knowledge which like that of God Himself, should enable him to know all things, so Satan assures Jesus that he will make Him ruler over all created things if He will fall at his feet and worship him. In the same way the devil seeks to attach us to temporal goods, when we ought, by alms and works of charity, to be doing good to our neighbour. This is the concupiscence of the eyes or avarice.

Since the sword of the Spirit is the word of God, our Lord made use of the ninetieth psalm against Satan, and this is the theme of the whole Mass and is found again and again in the office of the day. " His truth shall cover thee with a shield," says the psalmist. This psalm is, therefore, the ideal psalm for Lent as a special time of warfare against the devil. Again, the eleventh verse," He hath given His angels charge over thee, to keep thee in all thy ways," recurs in Vespers like a refrain during the whole season. We find the entire psalm in the Tract, which reminds us of the old custom of singing psalms during certain parts of the Mass. Some of its verses make up the Introit with its verse, the Gradual, the Communion and the Offertory, which last was formerly composed, in to-day's mass, of three verses instead of one, following the order of the threefold temptation as recorded in the Gospel.

Side by side with this psalm the Epistle, certainly dating from the time of Saint Leo, sounds one of the characteristic notes of Lent. There Saint Paul borrows a text of Isaias : " In an accepted time have I heard thee, and in the day of salvation have I helped thee." "Behold," says the apostle, " now is the acceptable time, behold now is the day of salvation" (Epistle and first nocturn). On this Saint Leo comments : " Although there is no season of the year which is not rich in divine gifts and in which we by God's grace do not find immediate access to His mercy; nevertheless at this time when the return of the day on which we are redeemed summons us to fulfill all the duties of Christian piety, the souls of Christians must be stirred with more zeal for spiritual progress, and possessed of a very great confidence in almighty God. In this manner, with pure souls and bodies, shall we celebrate this mystery of the Lord's Passion, sublime beyond all others.

True, we ought always to be in the divine presence, just as much as on the Easter feast. But because this spiritual vigour is the possession of only a few, while, on the one hand, the weakness of the flesh leads to any very severe observance being relaxed, and on the other, the varied occupations of this life share and divide our interest, it necessarily happens that the dust of the world soils the hearts even of religious themselves. This divine institution has been planned with great profit to our salvation in a manner that the exercises of these forty days may help us to regain the purity of our souls, making up, in a way, for the faults of the rest of the year, by fasting and pious deeds. However, we must be careful to give no one the least cause of complaint or scandal, so that our general behaviour may not be inconsistent with our fasting and penance. For it is useless to reduce the nourishment of the body unless the soul departs from sin " (Second nocturn).

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March 4th, St. Casimir, Confessor. Day of Fast. First Saturday

First Saturday Devotions Devotions to St. Casimir What we should pray for Prayer: its Conditions and Circumstances How to Obtain Answers to Our Prayers How to Practice Mental Prayer Meditations for Lent by
St. Thomas Aquinas Stations of the Cross St. Leonard of Port Maurice and the Stations of the Cross Index for the Season of Lent Index of Children Prayers, Lent Novena and Penitential Litany for Lent; The Prodigal Son Prayers and Devotions for the Holy Season of Lent The Church's Laws on Fasting and the Season of Lent Index of Prayers for the Holy Souls in Purgatory

The Little Office of the Blessed Virgin Mary Joyful Mysteries Sorrowful Mysteries Glorious Mysteries

Related links for the Sacrament of Penance

The Idolatry of the Creature Due to Impurity The Vice of Lust: The Folly of Impure Desires of Sensual Pleasures Sacrament of Penance The Sacrament of Penance, All of Your Questions Answered Examination of Conscience Rite of Confession General Confession The Necessity of Avoiding Occasions of Sin
by St. Alphonsus Liguori Contrition The False Peace of a Sinful Conscience, by Fr. Hunolt, 1691-1746 Render an Account of Your Life: A Must Read for Every Soul The Conversion of Sinners Penitent's Consolation The Nature of Sin Conscience Index of the Ten Commandments Sermon on Keeping the 10 Commandments The Conversion of Sinners The Necessity of Prayer for Sinners

O God, Who didst strengthen holy Casimir with the virtue of constancy in the midst of royal delights and the snares of the world, we beseech Thee, grant by his intercession, that Thy faithful people may despise the things of the world and ever aspire to those of heaven. Through our Lord Jesus Christ, Thy Son, Who liveth and reigneth with Thee in the unity of the Holy Ghost, one God, world without end. Amen.

(Roman Breviary)

Casimir, the second son of Casimir III, King of Poland, was born in 1458. From the custody of a very virtuous mother, Elizabeth of Austria, he passed to the guardianship of a devoted master, the learned and pious John Dugloss. Thus animated from his earliest years by precept and example, his innocence and piety soon ripened into the practice of heroic virtue.

In an atmosphere of luxury and magnificence the young prince fasted, wore a hair shirt, slept upon the bare earth, prayed by night, and watched for the opening of the church doors at dawn. He became so tenderly devoted to the Passion of Our Lord that at Mass he seemed quite rapt out of himself; his charity to the poor and afflicted knew no bounds. His love for our Blessed Lady he expressed in a long and beautiful hymn, familiar to us in English as Daily, Daily, Sing to Mary. At the age of twenty-five, sick with a long illness, he foretold the hour of his death, and chose to die a virgin rather than accept the life and health which the physicians held out to him in the married state.

The miracles wrought by his body after death fill an entire volume. The blind saw, the lame walked, the sick were healed, a dead girl was raised to life. At one time the Saint in glory, seen in the air by his army, led his Catholic countrymen to battle and delivered them by a wondrous victory from the schismatic Russian hosts.

One hundred and twenty-two years after his death Saint Casimir's tomb in the cathedral church of Vilna was opened, that the holy remains might be transferred to the rich marble chapel where it now lies. The place was damp, and the very vault crumbled away in the hands of the workmen; yet the Saint's body, wrapped in robes of silk, still intact, was found whole and incorrupt, and emitting a sweet fragrance which filled the church and refreshed all who were present. Under his head was found his hymn to Our Lady, which he had had buried with him.

Reflection. May the meditation of Saint Casimir's life make us increase in devotion to the most pure Mother of God--a sure means of preserving holy purity in our own soul.

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March 3rd, Ferial Day of Fast and Abstinence. First Friday

First Friday Devotions Stations of the Cross Meditations for Lent by
St. Thomas Aquinas Index for the Season of Lent and Passion-tide. A Resource Center of Prayers, Devotions, Books and Sermons. All related links to the Sacrament of Penance, Marriage, the Blessed Virgin Mary and the Saints. Index of Children Prayers, Lent The Necessity of Mortification Prayers and Devotions for the Holy Season of Lent Novena and Penitential Litany for Lent; The Prodigal Son The Church's Laws on Fasting and the Season of Lent Practise During Lent, by Gueranger Lenten Reflection on Via Crucis Stations of the Cross The Holy Ways of the Cross by Henri Boudon, 1875 The End of Man Holy Purity Prayers for the Preservation of Chastity. An Explanation and Defense of the Virtue of Chastity

30 Day Prayer to St. Joseph: Feb. 18th - Mar. 19th The Little Office of the Blessed Virgin Mary, from Candlemas until Advent Daily Rosary: Joyful Mysteries with Meditations Daily Rosary: Sorrowful Mysteries with Meditations Daily Rosary: Glorious Mysteries with Meditations Index of Prayers for the Holy Souls in Purgatory

On Jesus Crowned with Thorns and Loaded with Ignominy

by Rev. Bruno Vercruysse

1st Prel. Behold our blessed Lord sitting on a block of wood holding a reed in His hand. His head crowned with thorns, and insulted by the guards of the Roman governor.

2d Prel. Beg for feelings of deep grief and compunction.

Point I--The Insults which Preceded the Crowning with Thorns

Consideration: The fearful sufferings of our Lord's scourging were followed by insults not less cruel. Pilate's soldiers, who had led Him to the court of Herod, were anxious that these insults should exceed those offered to Him there. He had there been treated as a fool; they would now crown Him as a fool, as the king of fools; as says holy writ, "taking Jesus into the hall, gathered together unto Him the whole band, and stripping Him, they put a scarlet cloak about Him, and platting a crown of thorns, they put it upon His head, and a reed in His right hand. And bowing the knee before Him, they mocked Him, saying, Hail, King of the Jews! And spitting on Him, they took the reed and struck His head, and they gave Him blows." ( St. Matt. 27: 27-30; St. John 19: 3.)

Application: If we carefully think over all the details, and even every word of this narrative, written under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit, we shall see how truly the prophet Jeremias had foretold of the Messiah, " Satiabitur opprobriis." "He shall be filled with reproaches." (Lament. 3 : 30.) If we then ask ourselves, Who is it that is thus treated? for what reason? our hearts will surely burn with love.

Affections: Astonishment, compassion, love. Humble yourself in considering your sensitiveness. Desire to share in the insults endured for you by your Divine Saviour.

Resolutions: Renew your determination to aim at acquiring the third degree of humility.

Point II--The Terrible Pain Of The Crowning With Thorns

Consideration: "And platting a crown of thorns, they put it on His head." They not only placed it on His head, but pressed it in, by striking Him on the head with a reed, as the Evangelist tells us. Conceive, if possible, the sufferings our Lord then endured. Why did He not sink beneath this additional torment, following so rapidly upon His scourging? Did He work a miracle to blunt the edge of His sufferings? No; but He exerted His miraculous power that He might not sink under sufferings which would have caused His death; so that no one else might ever suffer as He had done. And all this was for love of me!

Application: It was the will of our Divine Lord that His head, which had escaped the scourging, should also bear its distinct punishment, that He might expiate our sins of thought--the many thoughts and desires of vanity, pride, ambition, rebellion, hatred, vengeance, impurity, and injustice with which the heads of men are filled, when they lose the recollection of the presence and justice of God.

Affections: Let us compassionate the cruel sufferings of Jesus, tortured for love of us, and ask His pardon for having contributed, by our sinful thoughts and intentions, to His sufferings.

Resolutions: To aim at greater recollection, in order the better to watch over our thoughts and restrain their wanderings.

Point III--The Wonderful Patience of Jesus

Consideration: With what wonderful patience did our Blessed Lord bear these unparalleled insults and sufferings! His eyes were not bandaged now, as they were when, in Herod's court, they mocked Him as a prophet. He looked upon the insulting homage which one soldier after another offered Him in ridicule. He saw the spittle which they dared to throw in His face. He saw the arms of the insolent soldiers raised to strike Him; and yet He never moved His head to escape their blows. When they snatched the reed from His hand, He let them have it; when they gave it Him back again, He took it, fulfilling to the very letter the prophecy of Isaias, "I have not turned away my face from them that spit upon me." (Isaias 50: 6.)

Application: While we gaze upon this wonderful patience, we should remember our own impatience at the least contradiction. What ought we to think of our secret but eager desires for the praise and adulation of the world; of the resentment which enters and dwells in our hearts against those who have offended or looked down upon us? "If," says the author of the Imitation, " Jesus, covered with ignominy, was always before your minds, you would desire rather to be beneath the feet of all men, than to exercise superiority over any one." We should, then, ardently long to be despised, and suffer for the love of Jesus. How far have we advanced in thus following the true disciples of our Lord?

Colloquy with the holy Angels who witnessed the cruel sufferings and the fearful insults inflicted on our Divine Lord.

Jesus, crowned with thorns, have mercy on us. Jesus, struck with a reed upon the head, have mercy on us.

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March 2nd, Ferial Day of Fast

Meditations for Lent by
St. Thomas Aquinas Index for the Season of Lent Index of Children Prayers, Lent The Necessity of Mortification Prayers and Devotions for the Holy Season of Lent Novena and Penitential Litany for Lent; The Prodigal Son The Church's Laws on Fasting and the Season of Lent Practise During Lent, by Gueranger Lenten Reflection on Via Crucis Stations of the Cross The Holy Ways of the Cross by Henri Boudon, 1875 The End of Man

30 Day Prayer to St. Joseph: Feb. 18th - Mar. 19th The Little Office of the Blessed Virgin Mary, from Candlemas until Advent Daily Rosary: Joyful Mysteries with Meditations Daily Rosary: Sorrowful Mysteries with Meditations Daily Rosary: Glorious Mysteries with Meditations Index of Prayers for the Holy Souls in Purgatory

What shall I do when God shall rise to judge ? and when He shall examine, what shall I answer Him? (Job xxxi. 14).

by Fr. Paolo Segneri

Consider first, that the Lord, Who now sits at the right hand of the Father in the character of thy advocate, will one day rise up, no longer as an advocate, but in judgment against thee. Poor soul, and what will become of thee, if nothing else befall thee than this, to have lost such a protector? Therefore it is not said, "What shall I do when God shall come to judgment?" but, "when God shall rise." For this ought to increase thy fear. All the good which thou dost now possess comes from having Jesus for an advocate. "We have an advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the Just (St. John ii. 1)." It is for this that thy fellow-creatures show thee reverence, which is undeserved. It is for this that the earth, instead of yawning to engulf thee, not only bears thee up, but yields thee nourishment. It is for this that air and water are thy servants, and that the fire itself which ought by good right to be exacting atonement for thy sins, is ministering to thy wants. But on that last day Jesus will lay aside the character of mercy, and I leave thee to think how soon then thou wouldst be at the mercy of thy enemy, eager to inflict every torment upon thee. And yet it would be comparatively little only to lose a powerful advocate. The worst is that He will be changed from an advocate into a judge. This is the greatest misfortune that can befall a criminal.

Consider secondly, how shall it fare with thee then in the presence of this Sovereign Lord, "when He shall rise to judgment"? Whither shalt thou turn thyself? When an offender is on his trial in a court from which there is no appeal, he has only one of four courses to follow. He must either deceive or corrupt the judge, or make his escape, or come to terms. Which of these courses canst thou adopt when before the judgment-seat of Christ? Wilt thou try to deceive Him? Knowest thou not that He is God? "When God shall rise to judgment." And if He is God, dost thou suppose that He can be deceived? "Shall God be deceived as a man with your deceitful dealings (Job xiii. 9)?" What course then wilt thou adopt? Wilt thou try to bribe Him? But knowest thou not that "God is a just judge (Psalm vii. 12) ?" Not like men, for He is not an acceptor of persons or a receiver of bribes. He is not an acceptor of persons, for He is Father of all men: nor a receiver of presents, for He is the Lord of all things. "Let the fear of the Lord be with you, for there is no iniquity with the Lord our God, nor respect of persons, nor desire of gifts (2 Paral. xix. 7)."

What course wilt thou take? Wilt thou try to escape? Dost thou not know then that "God is an all-powerful judge (Psalm vii. 12)"? His arm would full surely reach thee even if thou didst hide thyself among the stars. "Though thou set thy nest among the stars, thence I will bring thee down, saith the Lord (Abdias i. 4)." And once captured, dost thou think to escape from His hand? "He shall take hold of the prey, and He shall keep fast hold of it, and there shall be none to deliver it (Isaisas v. 29)." And what course, then, wilt thou still take? Wilt thou try to appease Him? Do not hope to succeed. "God is a patient judge (Psalm vii. 12)." Knowest thou what manner of judges they are who submit to be appeased? They are those who act under the impulse of passion, not those who attend only to the dictates of reason. They are never transported with rage, it is true: they are calm and dignified; but for that very reason all the more they are inexorable. Now, know for certain, that such shall thy judge be. "He is a patient judge." He is not quick-tempered, or given to anger. "Is He angry every day (Psalm vii. 12)?" If He shall in the end determine to punish thee, this will not be from impulse, but for all-sufficient reasons, and therefore thou mayest judge how terrible He will be.

Remember also that thy judge is one Who has shown unwearied patience in supporting thee, and therefore when at last His patience gives place to anger there is no longer hope for pardon. So that wherever thou turnest thyself, come back yet awhile to consider what course thou wilt take. Dost thou not see clearly that there will be no longer any way of escape open to thee? "God is a just judge, strong and patient." Thou seest then that thou canst neither deceive nor bribe Him, nor make thy escape, nor succeed in appeasing that anger which has been styled the anger of the Lamb, to signify that it will prove unchangeable. "Hide us from the wrath of the Lamb (Apoc. vi. 16)."

Consider thirdly, that in order to convince thee that this judge proceeds strictly according to the dictates of reason, He will not condemn thee without first giving thee an opportunity of making thy defence. "When therefore He examines thee, what answer shalt thou make?" He knows perfectly all that thou hast done, because He is God; He has seen everything, heard everything, been present on every occasion, and nevertheless He desires to examine into thy affairs as if He knew nothing. He desires to question thee, to find out all about thee, nay, even to dispute with thee. "I will gather together all nations and will bring them down into the Valley of Josaphat, and I will plead with them (Joel. iii. 2)." "When He shall examine, what shalt thou answer Him?" Thou must either prove thy innocence, or find some excuse for thy conduct; these are the only two lines of defence which are open to thee. But as to proving thy innocence, that is impossible, for in thy case the crimes are clear and unquestioned. It remains for thee to find some excuse for thy conduct. But how?

Thy excuses must fall under one of two heads: ignorance, which led thee into sin, or frailty. But canst thou plead ignorance, who wert born in the very heart of Christendom, brought up in the doctrine of Holy Writ and the lessons of saintly men, living in the midst of illustrious examples of virtue, like so many shining lights around thy path? True it is, that of thy free-will thou hast closed thy eyes in order to shut out the light, but this will only the more surely bring about thy condemnation. "And this is the judgment, because the light is come into the world, and men love darkness rather than the light (St. John iii. 19)," says the Lord. Thus, then, thou must fall back uon the plea of frailty. But how will this avail if thy frailty was thy own fault? Likely enough thou wert frail; but why? Because thou didst choose to be frail. Thou didst not care to employ the means which the Lord placed at thy disposal for acquiring ever new vigour; in time of temptation thou didst not call upon Him for help; thou didst not make frequent Confessions and Communions; thou didst not, though it was in thy power, keep away from occasions of sin; and thinkest thou he shall be excused who asked for no aid and refused all support, while he followed most perilous paths? Alas, who shall dare breathe a word in his own defence for fear of making his cause more hopeless? "All iniquity shall stop her mouth (Psalm cvi. 42)."

Consider fourthly, that although it is graciously granted to thee to plead in thy defence, there is really nothing which thou canst allege in thy favour. It follows by order of good consequence that nothing remains but to receive the sentence of eternal doom. Do not think it irksome to come back to the thought, what course wilt thou take. If thou know not "what thou shalt do when God shall rise in judgment," wilt thou perchance discover it when He shall sit down to pass sentence? Thou mayest indeed turn to the mountains and bid them fall upon thee, to the granite rocks to crush thee and grind thee to dust, to the depths of the earth to open and engulf thee; but to what purpose? It is no longer the time for praying, but for paying the price. "The Lord hath put on the garments of vengeance (Isaisas lix. 17)." What then shall become of thee, when thou shalt hear thy sentence of condemnation to eternal flames pronounced by the lips of Him Who was once thy gracious advocate? If thy sentence had been pronounced by some one unknown to thee or from another land, or by some enemy of thine, thou mightest accuse him of being cruel. But it is thy advocate; one Who has shed His Blood for thee on the Cross, and Who at the right hand of the Father has never ceased to pray and intercede for thee and to seek by every means to bestow Heaven upon thee. From His sentence there can be no appeal if He condemn thee to the flames of Hell.

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March 1st, Ash Wednesday, Day of Fast and Abstinence

Index for the Season of Lent Ash Wednesday Ash Wednesday: Epistle and Gospel, Instructions for Lent The Necessity of Mortification Prayers and Devotions for the Holy Season of Lent Novena and Penitential Litany for Lent; The Prodigal Son Daily Meditations for Lent by
St. Thomas Aquinas The Church's Laws on Fasting and the Season of Lent Practise During Lent, by Gueranger Lenten Reflection on Via Crucis Stations of the Cross The Holy Ways of the Cross by Henri Boudon, 1875 The End of Man Newly Added
On Those Who During Shrove-Tide, Prefer to Follow the Devil, Rather than Christ by Fr. Francis Hunolt, 1740

30 Day Prayer to St. Joseph: Feb. 18th - Mar. 19th The Little Office of the Blessed Virgin Mary, from Candlemas until Advent Daily Rosary: Joyful Mysteries with Meditations Daily Rosary: Sorrowful Mysteries with Meditations Daily Rosary: Glorious Mysteries with Meditations Index of Prayers for the Holy Souls in Purgatory

O God, Who by sin art offended and by penance pacified: mercifully regard the prayers of Thy suppliant people and turn away the scourge of Thy wrath, which we deserve for our sins. Through our Lord Jesus Christ, Thy Son, Who liveth and reigneth with Thee in the unity of the Holy Ghost, one God, world without end. Amen.

(Roman Breviary)

Today's station at Rome is at Saint-Sabina's on the Aventine, in a sanctuary built on the former site of the holy martyr's house. Having been converted by her maid-servant, she was beheaded for the faith and secretly buried. It is to this Church that, in former times, the Pope used to go barefoot "to begin with holy fasts the exercises of Christian warfare, that as we do battle with the spirits of evil, we may be protected by the help of self-denial". In the fifth century it was one of the twenty-five parishes of Rome. Following the example of the Ninevites, who did penance is sackcloth and ashes, the Church today, to humble our pride and remind us of the sentence of death, which as a consequence of our sins we are bound to undergo, sprinkles ashes on our heads with the words: "Remember, man, that thou art dust, and into dust thou shalt return". We come from dust and to dust we shall return! Here indeed, is a thought that should humble our pride.

In this custom we have the remains of an ancient ceremony referred to in the Roman Pontifical. Those Christians who were guilty of grave faults had to undergo public penance. Accordingly on Ash Wednesday, the Bishop used to bless the sackcloth which was to be worn by the penitents during the holy Forty Days, and place upon their heads ashes made from palms used the previous year in the Palm Sunday procession. Then, while the faithful were singing the Seven Penitential Psalms, "the penitents were expelled from the holy place on account of their sins, just as Adam was driven out of paradise because of his disobedience". They were not allowed to put off their penitential garb or to re-enter the Church before Holy Thursday after they had gained their reconciliation by toil and penance, and by sacramental confession and absolution.

At the Council of Beneventum (1091) Pope Urban VI commanded that the ashes should be received by all the faithful indiscriminately. Let us receive them in a spirit of humility and penance, and that by this powerful sacramental we may obtain from almighty God the blessings which the Church implores in the act of blessing them. For, truly, "God overlooks the sins of men for the sake of repentance" (Introit). He is "rich in mercy" to those who are "converted to Him with all their heart in fasting and in weeping and in mourning" (Epistle). We must not indeed, like the Pharisees, rend our garments as a sign of grief, but rather our hearts" (ibid.), for it is not men who are to testify to our fasting, but our Father who sees our inmost souls and will repay us (Gospel), as our Lord Himself tells us in the Sermon on the Mount. Let us then, draw from the Eucharist the help which we need (Postcommunion), so that celebrating today the institution of this sacred fast (Secret), we may "perform it with a devotion which nothing can disturb" (Collect).

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February 28th,
Ferial Day

Newly Added
On Those Who During Shrove-Tide, Prefer to Follow the Devil, Rather than Christ by Fr. Francis Hunolt, 1740
St. John Vianney Sermon:
Confession St. John Vianney Sermon:
Prisoners of Sin St. John Vianney Sermon:
How Blind the Sinner Is

30 Day Prayer to St. Joseph: Feb. 18th - Mar. 19th The Little Office of the Blessed Virgin Mary, from Candlemas until Advent Daily Rosary: Joyful Mysteries with Meditations Daily Rosary: Sorrowful Mysteries with Meditations Daily Rosary: Glorious Mysteries with Meditations Index of Prayers for the Holy Souls in Purgatory

They that are faithful in love shall rest in Him (Wisdom iii. 9).

by Fr. Paolo Segneri

Consider first, that the true mark of the faithful love of God is conformity with the Divine will. It is easy to love Him when His will falls in with our own inclination, when "He rests in us;" when He keeps us in good health, gives us glory, gives us grandeur, or even imparts to us many spiritual consolations. The merit is in loving Him when we have to follow in the path He chooses, when we have "to rest in Him;" to suffer sickness, disgrace, losses, and even continual desolation of spirit. And yet this is His will, that we cease not from suffering; and to speak plainly, we ask for nothing else when we repeat, "Thy will be done;" for it is His will that we should be saints: "This is the will of God, your sanctification (Thess. iv. 3);" and there is no other way to sanctity but that of suffering: "All that have pleased God, passed through many tribulations remaining faithful (Judith viii. 23)."

Consider secondly, that this conformity with the Divine will must be very perfect. Hence it is called repose. Not that the inferior part of our soul need necessarily be always at rest; but that the superior part must be at rest. The will must acquiesce, and the understanding must acquiesce. In many the will readily acquiesces, but not so the understanding; for it seems to them strange at times that God should so treat them, nor can they bring themselves to believe that what has happened to them is the very best thing for them. If such be the condition of thy mind, thou art not at rest, at least not perfectly, and there is therefore no cause for self-congratulation; thou art not faithful: "Those that are faithful in love shall rest in Him."

Consider thirdly, that this complete conformity to the Divine will is what beyond everything else brings rest to the soul. On this account also conformity is called repose. So long as thou art anxious to bend to thy will the will of God, or his who guides thee in God's name, so long shalt thou fail to find repose; then alone shalt thou be at peace when the Lord, or he who guides thee in His name, draws thy will to His; therefore, place thyself in His hands entirely once for all. I say to thee with Job: "Submit thyself then to Him, and be at peace."

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February 27th,
St. Gabriel of Our Lady of Sorrows, Confessor

St. Gabriel of Our Lady of Sorrows Novena to St. Gabriel of Our Lady of Sorrows: Feb. 19th - Feb. 27th Litany of Our Lady of Sorrows Litany of the Passion

30 Day Prayer to St. Joseph: Feb. 18th - Mar. 19th The Little Office of the Blessed Virgin Mary, from Candlemas until Advent Daily Rosary: Joyful Mysteries with Meditations Daily Rosary: Sorrowful Mysteries with Meditations Daily Rosary: Glorious Mysteries with Meditations Index of Prayers for the Holy Souls in Purgatory

O God, Who didst teach blessed Gabriel continually to recall the sorrows of Thy most sweet Mother, and through her didst raise him up to the glory of holiness and of miracles: grant us, through his intercession and example, so to share in the mourning of Thy Mother, that we may be saved by her maternal protection: Who liveth and reigneth with Thee in the unity of the Holy Ghost, one God, world without end. Amen.

(Roman Breviary)

Saint Gabriel was born at Assisi in 1838. He was guided by Our Lady into the Passionist Order founded by Saint Paul of the Cross, and became a veritable Apostle of Her Sorrows. He was a very great and truly contemplative soul, whose only preoccupation was to unite himself to God at all times. He allowed no distractions to enter his spirit, and even though Italy, his country, was in a state of great excitement and activity when he entered religion, he wanted to know nothing of it.

The way to attain union with our Saviour and our God was, for Saint Gabriel, as for Saint Louis de Montfort, His Heavenly Mother. He wrote home to his father, from the first month of his noviciate, "Believe your son, whose heart is speaking by his lips; no, I would not exchange one single quarter of an hour spent near the Most Blessed Virgin Mary, our consolatrix, our protectress and our hope, for a year or several years spent in the diversions and spectacles of the earth." Among his resolutions was that of visiting Jesus in the Most Blessed Sacrament each day, and praying for the gift of a tender and efficacious devotion to His Most Holy Mother. He wrote a beautiful Credo, worthy to be printed in letters of gold, expressing all that he believed of the Mother of God.

At twenty-four years of age Saint Gabriel died of tuberculosis, having already attained heroic sanctity by a life of self-denial and great devotion to our Lord's Passion and the Compassion of His Mother.

Although his life was without any miraculous event, after his death in 1862 many miracles occurred at his tomb in Isola di Gran Sasso, Italy. He was canonized by Pope Benedict XV in 1920, and his feast was extended to the entire church by Pope Pius XI in 1932. He is the patron of youth, and especially of young religious.

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February 26th, Quinquagesima Sunday

Quinquagaesima Sunday Quinquagesima Sunday:
Sermon for Children and Parents Quinquagesima Sunday:
Epistle and Gospel. Necessity of Good Works The Corporal Works of Mercy How Blind the Sinner Is They that Live in Sin Manner of Hearing Mass At Home: For those who on account of sickness, old age, or for other proper reasons cannot assist at holy Mass, especially on Sundays and Holidays Spiritual Communion

30 Day Prayer to St. Joseph: Feb. 18th - Mar. 19th Novena to St. Gabriel of Our Lady of Sorrows: Feb. 19th - Feb. 27th The Little Office of the Blessed Virgin Mary, from Candlemas until Advent Daily Rosary: Joyful Mysteries with Meditations Daily Rosary: Sorrowful Mysteries with Meditations Daily Rosary: Glorious Mysteries with Meditations Index of Prayers for the Holy Souls in Purgatory

On the Mercy of God
in Calling Sinners
to Repentance

by St. Alphonsus Di Liguori

The Lord called to Adam, and said to him; Where art thou? Gen. iii. 10. These are the words of a father, says a pious author, going in quest of his lost son. O the immense compassion of our God! Adam sins, he turns his back upon God; and yet God does not abandon him, but follows him and calls after him: Adam, where art thou? Thus, my soul, has God frequently done towards thee; thou hadst forsaken Him by sin; but He did not hesitate to approach thee, and to call upon thee by many interior lights, by remorse of conscience, and by His holy inspirations; all which were the effects of his compassion and love. O God of mercy, O God of love, how could I have so grievously offended Thee, how could I have been so ungrateful to Thee!

As a father when he beholds his son hastening to cast himself down from the brink of a precipice, presses forward towards him, and with tears endeavours to withhold him from destruction; so, my God, hast Thou done towards me. I was already hastening by my sins to precipitate myself into hell, and Thou didst hold me back. I am now sensible, O Lord, of the love which Thou hast shown me, and I hope to sing for ever in heaven the praises of Thy mercy: The mercies of the Lord I will sing for ever. Ps. lxxxviii. 1. I know, O Jesus, that Thou desirest my salvation; but I do not know whether Thou hast yet pardoned me. Oh! give me intense sorrow for my sins, give me an ardent love for Thee, as signs of thy merciful forgiveness.

O, my Saviour, how can I doubt of receiving Thy pardon, when thou Thyself dost offer it to me, and art ready to receive me with open arms on my return to thee? Wherefore I do return to Thee, sorrowing and overpowered at the consideration that after all my offences against Thee, Thou indeed still lovest me. Oh! that I had never displeased Thee, my sovereign good! how much am I grieved for having done so! Pardon me, O Jesus, I will never more offend Thee. But I shall not be able to rest satisfied with Thy forgiveness only, give me also a great love for Thee. Having so often deserved to burn in the fire of hell, I now desire to burn in the fire of Thy holy love. I love Thee, who art my only love, my life, my treasure, my all. O Mary, my protectress, pray for me, that I may continue faithful to God until the end of my life.

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February 25th, Ferial Day

30 Day Prayer to St. Joseph: Feb. 18th - Mar. 19th Novena to St. Gabriel of Our Lady of Sorrows: Feb. 19th - Feb. 27th The Little Office of the Blessed Virgin Mary, from Candlemas until Advent Daily Rosary: Joyful Mysteries with Meditations Daily Rosary: Sorrowful Mysteries with Meditations Daily Rosary: Glorious Mysteries with Meditations Index of Prayers for the Holy Souls in Purgatory

Considerations To Excite In Our Heart True Contrition For Our Sins

Consider Who He is, and how good and gracious He is to you, Whom you have so often and so deeply offended by these sins. He made you -- He made you for Himself, to know, love, and serve Him, and to be happy with Him forever. He redeemed you by His blood. He has borne with you and waited for you so long. He it is Who has called you and moved you to repentance. Why have you thus sinned against Him? Why have you been so ungrateful? What more could He do for you? Oh, be ashamed, and mourn, and despise yourself, because you have sinned against your Maker and your Redeemer, Whom you ought to love above all things!

Consider the consequences of even one mortal sin. By it you lose the grace of God. You destroy peace of conscience; you forfeit the felicity of heaven, for which you were created and redeemed; and you prepare for yourself eternal punishment. If we grieve for the loss of temporal and earthly things, how much more should we grieve for having deliberately exposed ourselves to the loss of those which are eternal and heavenly!

Consider how great is the love of God for you, if only from this, that He hath so long waited for you, and spared you, when He might have so justly cast you into hell. Behold Him fastened to the cross for love of you! Behold Him pouring forth His precious blood as a fountain to cleanse you from your sins! Hear Him saying, "I thirst," -- " I thirst with an ardent desire for your salvation!" Behold Him stretching out His arms to embrace you, and waiting until you should come to yourself and turn unto Him, and throw yourself before Him, and say, "Father, I have sinned against heaven and before Thee, and am no more worthy to be called Thy son." Let these considerations touch your heart with love for Him Who so loves you, and love will beget true contrition, most acceptable to God.

Say an Our Father, a Hail Mary, and a Glory to obtain true contrition.

Related links for the Sacrament of Penance

Sacrament of Penance The Sacrament of Penance, All of Your Questions Answered Examination of Conscience Rite of Confession General Confession The Necessity of Avoiding Occasions of Sin
by St. Alphonsus Liguori Contrition The False Peace of a Sinful Conscience, by Fr. Hunolt, 1691-1746 Render an Account of Your Life: A Must Read for Every Soul The Conversion of Sinners Penitent's Consolation The Nature of Sin Mortal Sin Four Sins Crying to Heaven for Vengeance Nine Ways of Being Accessory to Another's Sin True Conversion: One of the best sermons for hardened sinners Conscience

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February 24th,
St. Matthias, Apostle

St. Matthias, Apostle The Lives of the 12 Apostles and St. Paul: The Apostles Creed The Labor of the Apostles:
Their Teaching of the Nations Litany of the Saints

30 Day Prayer to St. Joseph: Feb. 18th - Mar. 19th Novena to St. Gabriel of Our Lady of Sorrows: Feb. 19th - Feb. 27th The Little Office of the Blessed Virgin Mary, from Candlemas until Advent Daily Rosary: Joyful Mysteries with Meditations Daily Rosary: Sorrowful Mysteries with Meditations Daily Rosary: Glorious Mysteries with Meditations Index of Prayers for the Holy Souls in Purgatory

O God, Who didst join blessed Matthias to the company of Thy Apostles: grant, we beseech Thee, that, by his intercession, we may enjoy for evermore Thy compassion and loving kindness towards us. Through our Lord Jesus Christ, Thy Son, Who liveth and reigneth with Thee in the unity of the Holy Ghost, one God, world without end. Amen.

(Roman Breviary)

After our blessed Lord's Ascension His disciples met together, with Mary His mother and the eleven apostles, in an upper room at Jerusalem. The little company numbered no more than one hundred and twenty souls. They were waiting for the promised coining of the Holy Ghost, and they persevered in prayer. Meanwhile there was a solemn act to be performed on the part of the Church, which could not be postponed. The place of the fallen Judas must be filled up, that the elect number of the apostles might be complete.

St. Peter, therefore, as Vicar of Christ, arose to announce the divine decree. That which the Holy Ghost had spoken by the mouth of David concerning Judas, he said, must be fulfilled. Of him it had been written, "His bishopric let another take." A choice, therefore, was to be made of one among those who had been their companions from the beginning, who could bear witness to the Resurrection of Jesus. Two were named of equal merit, Joseph called Barsabas, and Matthias. Then, after praying to God, Who knows the hearts of all men, to show which of these He had chosen, they cast lots, and the lot fell upon Matthias, who was forthwith numbered with the apostles. It is recorded of the Saint, thus wonderfully elected to so high a vocation, that he was above all remarkable for his mortification of the flesh. It was thus that he made his election sure.

Reflection.--Our ignorance of many points in St. Matthias's life serves to fix the attention all the more firmly upon these two--the occasion of his call to the apostolate, and the fact of his perseverance. We then naturally turn in thought to our own vocation and our own end.

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February 23rd, St. Peter Damian, Bishop, Confessor and Doctor of the Church

St. Peter Damian Prayers for the Preservation of Chastity. An Explanation and Defense of the Virtue of Chastity The Sixth Commandment Against the Sin of Homosexuality

30 Day Prayer to St. Joseph: Feb. 18th - Mar. 19th Novena to St. Gabriel of Our Lady of Sorrows: Feb. 19th - Feb. 27th The Little Office of the Blessed Virgin Mary, from Candlemas until Advent Daily Rosary: Joyful Mysteries with Meditations Daily Rosary: Sorrowful Mysteries with Meditations Daily Rosary: Glorious Mysteries with Meditations Index of Prayers for the Holy Souls in Purgatory

Grant unto us, we beseech Thee, almighty God: to follow the counsels and example of blessed Peter Thy Confessor and Bishop, that, by despising earthly things, we may attain unto everlasting joys. Through our Lord Jesus Christ, Thy Son, Who liveth and reigneth with Thee in the unity of the Holy Ghost, one God, world without end. Amen.

Ant. O excellent Doctor, light of holy Church, blessed Peter lover of the divine law, pray unto the Son of God for us.

V. The Lord loved him, and adorned him.

R. He clothed him with a robe of glory.

(Roman Breviary)

St. Peter Damian was born in 988, and lost both parents at an early age. His eldest brother, in whose hands he was left, treated him so cruelly that a younger brother, a priest, moved by his piteous state, sent him to the University of Parma, where he acquired great distinction. His studies were sanctified by vigils, fasts, and prayers, till at last, thinking that all this was only serving God by halves, he resolved to leave the world. He joined the monks at Font-Avellano, then in the greatest repute, and by his wisdom and sanctity rose to be Superior. He was employed on the most delicate and difficult missions, amongst others the reform of ecclesiastical communities, which was effected by his zeal.

Seven Popes in succession made him their constant adviser, and he was at last created Cardinal Bishop of Ostia. He withstood Henry IV. of Germany, and labored in defence of Alexander II. against the Antipope, whom he forced to yield and seek for pardon. He was charged, as Papal Legate, with the repression of simony; again, was commissioned to settle discords amongst various bishops, and finally, in 1072, to adjust the affairs of the Church at Ravenna. He was laid low by a fever on his homeward journey, and died at Faenza, in a monastery of his order, on the eighth day of his sickness, whilst the monks chanted matins around him.

Reflection.--The Saints studied, not in order to be accounted learned, but to become perfect. This only is wisdom and true greatness, to account ourselves as ignorant, and to adhere in all things to the teachings and instincts of the Church.

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February 22nd, St. Peter's Chair at Antioch and a Commemoration of St. Paul.

St. Peter, Apostle and First Pope, from the Lives and Times of the Roman Pontiffs, 1867 Prayers and Devotions St. Peter the Apostle and St. Peter's Chair Novena to St. Peter and St. Paul: Feb. 14th - Feb. 22nd The Church The Church is One The Church is Holy The Church is Catholic The Church is Apostolic Contrition St. Peter The Lives of the 12 Apostles and St. Paul: The Apostles Creed Vol. 1, Part 2: The Ministry of Jesus Christ from the Latin Vulgate, as Illustrated by Catholic Artist and Historian, James Tissot, 1899 Vol. 2: Parables and Teachings of Jesus Christ from the Latin Vulgate, as Illustrated by Catholic Artist and Historian, James Tissot, 1899

30 Day Prayer to St. Joseph: Feb. 18th - Mar. 19th Novena to St. Gabriel of Our Lady of Sorrows: Feb. 19th - Feb. 27th The Little Office of the Blessed Virgin Mary, from Candlemas until Advent Daily Rosary: Joyful Mysteries with Meditations Daily Rosary: Sorrowful Mysteries with Meditations Daily Rosary: Glorious Mysteries with Meditations Index of Prayers for the Holy Souls in Purgatory

O God, Who in delivering to Thy blessed Apostle Peter the keys of the kingdom of heaven, didst confer on him the pontifical power of binding and loosing: grant, that by the help of his intercession we may be loosed from the bonds of our sins: Who liveth and reigneth with Thee in the unity of the Holy Ghost, one God, world without end. Amen.

Ant. Thou art the shepherd of the sheep, O Prince of the Apostles, unto thee were given the keys of the kingdom of heaven.

Ant. O holy Apostle Paul, preacher of the truth, and teacher of the Gentiles, intercede for us with God, who chose thee.

V. Thou art a vessel of election, O holy Apostle Paul.

R. A preacher of the truth to the whole world.

(Roman Breviary)

That St. Peter, before he went to Rome, founded the see of Antioch is attested by many Saints. It was just that the Prince of the Apostles should take this city under his particular care and inspection, which was then the capital of the East, and in which the faith took so early and so deep root as to give birth in it to the name of Christians. St. Chrysostom says that St. Peter made there a long stay; St. Gregory the Great, that he was seven years Bishop of Antioch; not that he resided there all that time, but only that he had a particular care over that Church. If he sat twenty-five years at Rome, the date of his establishing his chair at Antioch must be within three years after Our Saviour's Ascension; for in that supposition he must have gone to Rome in the second year of Claudius.

In the first ages it was customary, especially in the East, for every Christian to keep the anniversary of his Baptism, on which he renewed his baptismal vows and gave thanks to God for his heavenly adoption: this they called their spiritual birthday. The bishops in like manner kept the anniversary of their own consecration, as appears from four sermons of St. Leo on the anniversary of his accession or assumption to the pontifical dignity; and this was frequently continued after their decease by the people, out of respect for their memory. St. Leo says we ought to celebrate the chair of St. Peter with no less joy than the day of his martyrdom; for as in this he was exalted to a throne of glory in heaven, so by the former he was installed head of the Church on earth.

Reflection.--On this festival we are especially bound to adore and thank the Divine Goodness for the establishment and propagation of His Church, and earnestly to pray that in His mercy He preserve the same, and dilate its pale, that His name may be glorified by all nations, and by all hearts, to the boundaries of the earth, for His divine honor and the salvation of souls, framed to His divine image, and the price of His adorable blood.

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February 21st, Ferial Day

Novena to St. Peter and St. Paul: Feb. 14th - Feb. 22nd 30 Day Prayer to St. Joseph: Feb. 18th - Mar. 19th Novena to St. Gabriel of Our Lady of Sorrows: Feb. 19th - Feb. 27th The Little Office of the Blessed Virgin Mary, from Candlemas until Advent Daily Rosary: Joyful Mysteries with Meditations Daily Rosary: Sorrowful Mysteries with Meditations Daily Rosary: Glorious Mysteries with Meditations Index of Prayers for the Holy Souls in Purgatory

God Will Punish You!

On the Necessity of Holy Fear and Avoiding Sloth
by Fr. Paolo Segneri, 1892

A wise man will fear in everything, and in the days of sin will beware of sloth (Ecclus. xviii. 27)

Consider first, how natural it is for a wise man to fear, for the wiser a man is, the more clearly he sees the dangers which beset the way of the Lord, from which no one is safe until death, that is, until he has reached the end of that way. But it is not said, "He shall be afraid of everything," but, "He shall fear in everything." Since as to thy past life, when thou hast used due diligence, without excessive anxiety, in confessing candidly all thy sins, and hast tried to excite thyself to true contrition and a real resolution of amendment, though thou mayest have some reason to fear, thou hast much more reason to hope. It is said therefore: "Be not devoid of fear for sin propitiated." The words are not, "Be fearful," but a milder phrase is used, "Be not devoid of fear." Some fear should be ever present to thee, but not very great fear. Very great fear thou shouldst have regarding the works thou hast now to do to ensure thy doing them well. Yet it ought not to be a servile fear, like that of the slaves who bend to the oar from fear of the lash. It should be a generous fear, such as a son feels who dreads separation from his father as the greatest evil that can befall him.

Consider secondly, what is the effect which should be produced in thee by this fear, "the holy fear of the Lord." The effect should be "to keep thee from sloth," especially "in the days of sin." This fear ought not to make thee scrupulous, in other words, to raise alarms without cause; but to make thee cautious, circumspect, watchful over thyself, abstaining not only from sin, but likewise from sloth. This is most important. Thou art on thy guard against sin, but not against idleness, tepidity, weariness, sloth, which make thee so feeble in doing good. If thou cease to do good, rest assured that thou wilt soon go on to do evil. This is the worst tendency of our fallen nature. If great violence be not employed to rein it in, it dashes like a wild horse over the precipice.

Consider thirdly, that this watchfulness is more especially called for "in the days of sin," because thou art then more easily carried along by the current. But what are these "days of sin," if they are not precisely those which are now upon us, the days of the Carnival? during which it appears to be lawful to think only of self-indulgence, idle conversation, much eating, frantic dancing, love-making, shameless effrontery, and the revival in Christendom of the follies of the heathen world. Now, therefore, is the time to "guard against sloth," against slackness in good deeds, neglect of pious practices, examinations of conscience, general and particular, and the reading of devout books, since it is very easy for thee to run with the rest to the precipice. "A wise man will fear in all things, and in the days of sin," that is in "days," according to another reading, "dedicated to sin"--an exact description of these days of Carnival--" will keep himself from sloth."

Consider fourthly, furthermore, that "days of sin " are days when reigning princes either favour vice, or do not punish it: "the days of sin" are days in which schism, rebellion, violence, civil war, oppress the people: "the days of sin" are days in which relaxation of discipline has crept into the community to which thou dost belong, and Superiors have not power to reinstate a fervent life. But above all, know well that in thy case "the days of sin" are days in which all thy affairs go prosperously, in the enjoyment of good health, riches, popularity, applause, or any other accidental gift which affords matter for complacency. Then shalt thou most readily forget the Lord, since thou hast then apparently less need of Him; then, therefore, it behoves thee ever to "beware of sloth," and to give thyself to good works, both for fear of exciting the anger of God by thy ingratitude, and because thou art then in unusual peril: for on the voyage of this mortal life it is not as in other kinds of navigation. In any other voyage the ship goes safely with the wind astern; but in the voyage of life, when the wind blows fair the ship is in the greatest danger, and at such a time thou must more than ever "fear in everything," commending thyself incessantly to God as men do if shipwreck is imminent.

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February 20th, Ferial Day

Novena to St. Peter and St. Paul: Feb. 14th - Feb. 22nd 30 Day Prayer to St. Joseph: Feb. 18th - Mar. 19th Novena to St. Gabriel of Our Lady of Sorrows: Feb. 19th - Feb. 27th The Little Office of the Blessed Virgin Mary, from Candlemas until Advent Daily Rosary: Joyful Mysteries with Meditations Daily Rosary: Sorrowful Mysteries with Meditations Daily Rosary: Glorious Mysteries with Meditations Index of Prayers for the Holy Souls in Purgatory

St. Michael/ Exorcism

How to be Victorious in our Earthly Fight
by Fr. Paolo Segneri, 1892

Laying aside every weight and sin which surrounds us, let us run by patience to the fight proposed to us: looking on Jesus, the Author and Finisher of faith,: Who, having joy set before Him, endured the Cross, despising the shame (Hebrews xii. I, 2).

Consider first, what this fight which is here proposed to thee is. It is the fight in which thou shouldst engage against those three notorious enemies who would rob thee of eternal goods: the inordinate love of wealth, of pleasures, of honours. This is that fight common to all alike on earth. Even the devils, when they tempt thee, can only rouse one of these enemies to assail thee. We must then animate ourselves for this great fight, not merely going forth, but running to it: this we do when we not only accept poverty, suffering, and contempt, our three-fold daily tribulation, but go forth to meet them "by patience," that is, by an invincible spirit of suffering. "Let us run by patience to the fight proposed to us."

Consider secondly, that in order to accomplish this it is necessary to put aside all impediments. Of these there are two, "weight, and sin which surrounds us." Weight is sin already committed, which weighs thee down and draws thee on to further sin. "The sin which surrounds" is the occasion leading to new sins, and perhaps close round thee. It is necessary, therefore, to lay down the weight if we would run to the fight; since to run, that is, to encounter suffering, requires great virtue. But how can we hope for this whilst all the forces of our soul are weighed down by sin? It is necessary to cast aside also the occasions of sin if we would fight valiantly. For when thou hast merely put thy sin away, how canst thou hope to be able to refrain with ease from yielding to impurity, to practise austerity and self-denial, to look with contempt upon unlawful gains, to be indifferent to greatness and to glory, whilst thou remainest all the time surrounded by the fascinations which allure thee. This is, without question, simple folly. Consider, then, thy present state, and whether thou art prepared for running to the fight.

Consider thirdly, that when thou hast cast aside all impediments, the next thing is to animate thy valour by the example of Christ, Who willed to suffer so much for thy sake. By this means thou shalt attain that patience, that invincible spirit of suffering, of which mention has been made. Who, then, is this Lord Who has suffered so much for thee? Jesus Himself, a Lord so free from blame, so sensitive to suffering. At the very sight of Him does not thy courage revive? If thou canst not meditate on His Passion in a more exalted manner, take in thy hand thy crucifix, and there, "looking on Jesus, the Author and Finisher of faith," contemplate that face for thee so pale, those failing eyes, those fleshless bones, those limbs so cruelly racked and torn, and wet with fresh-flowing Blood, and hesitate no longer: one such glance, one only, should be quite enough to move thee to compunction and to give thee strength. Here thou beholdest the brazen serpent, which, if thou fix thy gaze upon it, has power to cure thy weakness. Observe that the words are not, "Looking at the Author," but, "Looking into the Author," in auctorem; hence thou must not look only at His mangled frame to see how much He suffered for thy sake, but through those wide-open wounds thou must penetrate to the interior man, and consider Who has undergone such suffering--God made Man.

Consider fourthly, that for thy greater encouragement this is the same Jesus Who is called the Author and the Finisher of faith, inasmuch as He Who on earth is now the Author of thy faith, by teaching it to the mind, stamping it on the will, confirming it by so many wonders, will hereafter be its Finisher in Heaven, by rewarding it with the clear vision of God, into which faith will melt and be dissolved, and giving place to intuitive knowledge, shall in reality be finished. Jesus, then, both as Author and as Finisher of faith, gives thee encouragement: as Author, by what He promises thee now; as Finisher, by what He will give thee hereafter.

Consider fifthly, that in proposing to thee this great fight, He proposes what He knows by His own experience. Jesus was not obliged to suffer, as thou art, to whom the corruption of thy nature makes it necessary. Joy of every kind was set before Him to take, if He would; and yet, in order to set thee an example, "joy being proposed to Him," He refused to have it; instead of the riches which He could have had in such abundance, He chose poverty; in place of pleasure He chose pain; in place of honour He chose contempt: thus it was He "bore the Cross." Represent to thy mind that the whole life of thy Redeemer was one continued cross, to which He was bound by these three cruel executioners--poverty, pain, contempt. These three He had with Him at the instant of His Birth; they were with Him through life; they were with Him in death. And wilt thou, on the contrary, shrink proudly from them? It is for thee to do as Christ did, and to go forth with high courage to encounter them, when it is in thy power to keep away from them--it is for thee "to run to the fight."

Consider sixthly, that it is not said that Christ overcame shame; it is said that He contemned it, because it is most easily overcome by contempt. It is thy inordinate regard for the opinions of men which makes thee dread the slightest shame. What matters it to thee what people say of thee? Thy true reputation is that which thou enjoyest in Paradise, among the angels and archangels, before the awful throne of the Three Divine Persons. That is the reputation of which thou shouldst take thought. The esteem of men is empty, changeable, unjust, deceitful, fleeting. Let it pass, be it what it may. In short, the one thing needed to conquer shame is to despise it, to contemn contempt.

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February 19th, Sexagesima Sunday

Sexagesima Sunday:
Sermon for Children and Parents Sexagesima Sunday:
Epistle and Gospel. How we should listen to Sermons Sexagesima Sunday A Series of Sermons in Defense of the Catholic Teaching on Oral Tradition, the Word of God, and Errors of Private Interpretation Manner of Hearing Mass At Home: For those who on account of sickness, old age, or for other proper reasons cannot assist at holy Mass, especially on Sundays and Holidays Spiritual Communion

Novena to St. Peter and St. Paul: Feb. 14th - Feb. 22nd 30 Day Prayer to St. Joseph: Feb. 18th - Mar. 19th Novena to St. Gabriel of Our Lady of Sorrows: Feb. 19th - Feb. 27th The Little Office of the Blessed Virgin Mary, from Candlemas until Advent Daily Rosary: Joyful Mysteries with Meditations Daily Rosary: Sorrowful Mysteries with Meditations Daily Rosary: Glorious Mysteries with Meditations Index of Prayers for the Holy Souls in Purgatory

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February 18th, St. Bernadette Soubirous, Virgin (in some places)

St. Bernadette Soubirous, Virgin Novena of Our Lady of Lourdes and St. Bernadette Our Lady of Lourdes Inspirational Account of the Life of St. Bernadette and the Apparition of Lourdes In Defense of the Miracles of Lourdes, A History of Its Apparitions and Cures Novena to St. Peter and St. Paul: Feb. 14th - Feb. 22nd 30 Day Prayer to St. Joseph: Feb. 18th - Mar. 19th

Related links for the Sacrament of Penance

Sacrament of Penance The Sacrament of Penance, All of Your Questions Answered Examination of Conscience Rite of Confession General Confession The Necessity of Avoiding Occasions of Sin
by St. Alphonsus Liguori Contrition The False Peace of a Sinful Conscience, by Fr. Hunolt, 1691-1746 Render an Account of Your Life: A Must Read for Every Soul The Conversion of Sinners Penitent's Consolation The Nature of Sin Mortal Sin True Conversion: One of the best sermons for hardened sinners Conscience

O God, protector and lover of the humble, Who hast bestowed upon Thy servant, Marie Bernadette, the favor of beholding the Immaculate Virgin Mary and of conversing with her, grant, we beseech Thee, that walking through the simple paths of faith, we may deserve to behold Thee in heaven. Through our Lord Jesus Christ, Thy Son, Who liveth and reigneth with Thee in the unity of the Holy Ghost, one God, world without end. Amen.

(Roman Breviary)

February 18th, St. Simeon, Bishop and Confessor

St. Simeon, Bishop and Martyr

Look upon our weakness, O almighty God: and because we are weighed down beneath the burden of our own deeds, let the glorious intercession of blessed Simeon, Thy Martyr and Bishop shied us. Through our Lord Jesus Christ, Thy Son, Who liveth and reigneth with Thee in the unity of the Holy Ghost, one God, world without end. Amen.

(Roman Breviary)

St. Simeon was the son of Cleophas, otherwise called Alpheus, brother to St. Joseph, and of Mary, sister to the Blessed Virgin. He was therefore nephew both to St. Joseph and to the Blessed Virgin, and cousin to Our Saviour. We cannot doubt but that he was an early follower of Christ, and that he received the Holy Ghost on the day of Pentecost, with the Blessed Virgin and the apostles. When the Jews massacred St. James the Lesser, his brother Simeon reproached them for their atrocious cruelty. St. James, Bishop of Jerusalem, being put to death in the year 62, twenty-nine years after Our Saviour's Resurrection, the apostles and disciples met at Jerusalem to appoint him a successor. They unanimously chose St. Simeon, who had probably before assisted his brother in the government of that Church.

In the year 66, in which Sts. Peter and Paul suffered martyrdom at Rome, the civil war began in Judea, by the seditions of the Jews against the Romans. The Christians in Jerusalem were warned by God of the impending destruction of that city. They therefore departed out of it the same year,--before Vespasian, Nero's general, and afterwards emperor, entered Judea,--and retired beyond Jordan to a small city called Pella, having St. Simeon at their head. After the taking and burning of Jerusalem they returned thither again, and settled themselves amidst its ruins, till Adrian afterwards entirely razed it. The Church here flourished, and multitudes of Jews were converted by the great number of prodigies and miracles wrought in it.

Vespasian and Domitian had commanded all to be put to death who were of the race of David. St. Simeon had escaped their searches; but, Trajan having given the same order, certain heretics and Jews accused the Saint, as being both of the race of David and a Christian, to Atticus, the Roman governor in Palestine. The holy bishop was condemned to be crucified. After having undergone the usual tortures during several days, which, though one hundred and twenty years old, he suffered with so much patience that he drew on him a universal admiration, and that of Atticus in particular, he died in 107. He must have governed the Church of Jerusalem about forty-three years.

Reflection.--We bear the name of Christians, but are full of the spirit of worldlings, and our actions are infected with the poison of the world. We secretly seek ourselves, even when we flatter ourselves that God is our only aim; and whilst we undertake to convert the world, we suffer it to pervert us. When shall we begin to study to crucify our passions and die to ourselves, that we may lay a solid foundation of true virtue and establish its reign in our hearts?

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February 17th, Ferial Day

In some locations, the Flight into Egypt of the Holy Family is celebrated

The Flight into Egypt Newly Added
Children's Sermon:
The Flight into Egypt
Novena to St. Peter and St. Paul: Feb. 14th - Feb. 22nd The Little Office of the Blessed Virgin Mary, from Candlemas until Advent Daily Rosary: Joyful Mysteries with Meditations Daily Rosary: Sorrowful Mysteries with Meditations Daily Rosary: Glorious Mysteries with Meditations Index of Prayers for the Holy Souls in Purgatory

On Divine Love, as a Light which Enlightens us.

by St. Alphonsus Liguori

One of the worst effects which Adam's sin produced in us, was its blinding our reason by means of the passions, which darkened the mind. O how miserable is the soul that allows itself to be ruled by any of the passions! Passion is a vapour, a veil, which will not suffer us to see the truth. How can he fly from evil, who knows not what is evil? Our mental obscurity increases in proportion as our sins increase. But the Holy Ghost, who is called "Light most blessed," with His divine rays, not only inflames our hearts to love Him, but also dispels our darkness, and reveals to us the vanity of all worldly things, the value of eternal goods, the importance of salvation, the price of grace, the goodness of God, the infinite love which He deserves from us, and the immense love He has shown to us: The sensual man perceiveth not the things that are of the spirit of God (1 Cor. ii. 14. ).

Man absorpt in the pleasures of the earth, knows but little of these truths, and hence he unhappily loves that which he should hate, and hates that which he should love. St. Mary Magdalen, of Pazzi, exclaimed: "O love not known, O love not loved!" And hence St. Teresa said, that God is not loved because He is not known. Hence the saints ever sought light from God: "Send forth thy light: illuminate our darkness: open thou our eyes." Yes, because without light, precipices cannot be avoided, and God cannot be found.

Affections and Prayers

O Holy and Divine Spirit, I believe that thou art truly God, and one God with the Father and with the Son. I adore and acknowledge Thee as the giver of those lights, by which Thou hast discovered to me the evil which I have done by offending Thee, and the obligation which I am under of loving Thee: I thank Thee for them, and am exceedingly sorry for having offended Thee. I have deserved to be abandoned by Thee in my darkness, but I am sensible Thou hast not yet abandoned me.

Continue, O Eternal Spirit, to enlighten me, and make me know still more and more Thy infinite goodness, and give me strength to love Thee for the future with my whole heart. Add grace upon grace, that so I may be sweetly overcome, and constrained to love no other but Thee. I thank Thee through the merits of Jesus Christ. I love Thee, my sovereign good, I love Thee more than myself. I desire to be all thine, accept of me, and suffer me not to depart from Thee any more. O Mary, my Mother, assist me always by your holy intercession.

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February 16th, Ferial Day

Time is No More

Novena to St. Peter and St. Paul: Feb. 14th - Feb. 22nd The Little Office of the Blessed Virgin Mary, from Candlemas until Advent Daily Rosary: Joyful Mysteries with Meditations Daily Rosary: Sorrowful Mysteries with Meditations Daily Rosary: Glorious Mysteries with Meditations Index of Prayers for the Holy Souls in Purgatory

On our Journey to Eternity

Man shall go into the house of his eternity. Eccles. xii. 5. This earth is not our true country; we are only passing through it on our way to eternity. The land in which I dwell, the house which I inhabit are not mine: in a short time, and when I least expect it, I must leave them. The house which will contain my body, until the day of general judgment, will be the grave, and the house of my soul will be eternity, in heaven if I be saved, in hell if I be lost. Foolish indeed then should I be were I to place my affections on things which I must soon leave. I will endeavour to procure for myself a happy mansion in which I may dwell for ever.

Man shall go into the house of his eternity. It is said he shall go, to give us to understand that each one shall go, in another life, into that house which he himself has chosen: he shall go, he shall not be conducted, but shall go thither of his own free will. Faith teaches us that, in the next life, there are two habitations: one is a palace of delights, where all are happy for ever, and this is paradise: the other is a prison of excruciating torments, where all are for ever miserable, and this is hell. Choose, my soul, to which of the two thou wilt go. If thou desire heaven, thou must walk in the way which leads to heaven; if thou shouldst walk in the way which leads to hell, thou wilt one day unhappily find thyself there. Jesus, enlighten me, Jesus strengthen me. Suffer me not to be separated from thee.

Man shall go into the house of his eternity. If then I be saved and enter into the house of bliss, I shall there be happy for ever; but if I be lost and enter inter into the house of woe, I shall be miserable for ever. If therefore I would be saved, I must keep eternity always before my eyes. He who frequently meditates upon eternity does not become attached to the goods of this world, and thus secures his salvation. I will endeavour, therefore, so to regulate all my actions that they may be so many steps towards a happy eternity. O God, I believe in life eternal. Henceforth I will live only for Thee; hitherto I have lived for myself and have lost Thee, my sovereign good. I will never more lose thee; but will for ever serve and love thee. Assist me, O Jesus, and do not abandon me. Mary, my mother, protect me.

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February 15th, St. Faustina and Jovita, Martyrs

Ss. Faustinus and Jovita, Martyrs Final Perseverance
by St. Bonaventure Novena to St. Peter and St. Paul: Feb. 14th - Feb. 22nd The Little Office of the Blessed Virgin Mary, from Candlemas until Advent Daily Rosary: Joyful Mysteries with Meditations Daily Rosary: Sorrowful Mysteries with Meditations Daily Rosary: Glorious Mysteries with Meditations Index of Prayers for the Holy Souls in Purgatory

O God, Who dost gladden us by the yearly festival of Thy holy Martyrs, Faustinus and Jovita, grant in Thy mercy, that we who rejoice in their merits may be inspired by the example of their lives. Through our Lord Jesus Christ, Thy Son, Who liveth and reigneth with Thee in the unity of the Holy Ghost, one God, world without end. Amen.

(Roman Breviary)

Faustinus and Jovita were brothers, nobly born, and zealous professors of the Christian religion, which they preached without fear in their city of Brescia, while, the bishop of that place lay concealed during the persecution. Their remarkable zeal excited the fury of the heathens against them, and procured them a glorious death for their faith at Brescia in Lombardy, under the Emperor Adrian. Julian, a heathen lord, apprehended them: and the emperor himself, passing through Brescia, when neither threats nor torments could shake their constancy, commanded them to be beheaded. They seem to have suffered about the year 121. The city of Brescia honors them as its chief patrons, possesses their relics, and a very ancient church in that city bears their names.

Reflection.--The spirit of Christ is a spirit of martyrdom--at least of mortification and penance. It is always the spirit of the cross. The more we share in the suffering life of Christ, the greater share we inherit in His spirit, and in the fruit of His death. To souls mortified to their senses and disengaged from earthly things, God gives frequent foretastes of the sweetness of eternal life, and the most ardent desires of possessing Him in His glory. This is the spirit of martyrdom, which entitles a Christian to a happy resurrection and to the bliss of the life to come.

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February 14th, St. Valentine, Priest and Martyr

St. Valentine, Priest and Martyr Novena to St. Valentine:
Feb. 6th - Feb. 14th Holy Purity Index: Links to All Marriage and Family Pages. Provides answers to all of your questions. The Sacrament of Marriage Christian Marriage Preparation for Marraige After Lent/ Laws of the Church Duties of Marriage St. Michael/ Exorcism

Readings and Prayers to Combat the Vice of Impurity The 6th Commandment Moral Teaching on Unchaste Thoughts and Desires Prayers for the Preservation of Chastity. An Explanation and Defense of the Virtue of Chastity The Necessity of Avoiding Occasions of Sin
by St. Alphonsus Liguori The Ravages of Adultery

Novena to St. Peter and St. Paul: Feb. 14th - Feb. 22nd The Little Office of the Blessed Virgin Mary, from Candlemas until Advent Daily Rosary: Joyful Mysteries with Meditations Daily Rosary: Sorrowful Mysteries with Meditations Daily Rosary: Glorious Mysteries with Meditations Index of Prayers for the Holy Souls in Purgatory

Grant, we beseech Thee, almighty God: that we who are keeping the festival of blessed Valentine Thy Martyr, may, through his intercession, be delivered from all the evils that threaten us. Through our Lord. Through our Lord Jesus Christ, Thy Son, Who liveth and reigneth with Thee in the unity of the Holy Ghost, one God, world without end. Amen.

V. Thou hast crowned him with glory and honor, O Lord.

R. And hast set him over the works of Thy hands.

Ant. This Saint hath striven for the law of his God even unto death, and hath not feared for the words of the ungodly; for he had been founded upon a firm rock.

(Roman Breviary)

Valentine was a holy priest in Rome, who assisted the martyrs during the persecution under Claudius II. His great virtue and influence became known, and he was apprehended and brought before the emperor's tribunal. "Why, Valentine, do you want to be the friend of our enemies and reject our friendship?" The Christian priest replied, "My Lord, if you knew the gift of God, you would be happy, and your empire with you; you would reject the cult of your idols and would adore the true God and His Son Jesus Christ." One of the judges interrupted, asking the martyr what he thought of Jupiter and Mercury. "That they were miserable, and spent all their lives in debauchery and crime!" The judge, furious, cried, "He has blasphemed against the gods and against the empire!" The emperor nonetheless continued his questioning with curiosity, pleased to have this opportunity to know what Christians thought. Valentine had the courage to exhort him to do penance for the blood of Christians which he had shed. "Believe in Jesus Christ, be baptized and you will be saved, and already in this life you will insure your empire's glory and the triumph of your arms." Claudius began to be convinced, and said to those in attendance, "Hear the beautiful doctrine this man is teaching us!" But the prefect of Rome, dissatisfied, cried out, "See how this Christian is seducing our prince!" Claudius, weakening, abandoned the holy priest to another judge.

This man, named Asterius, had a little girl who had been blind for two years. Hearing of Jesus Christ, the Light of the world, he asked Valentine if he could convey that light to his child. Saint Valentine placed his hand on her eyes and prayed: "Lord Jesus Christ, true Light, illuminate this blind child!" The child saw, and the Judge with all his family confessed Christ and received Baptism. The emperor, hearing of this, would have turned his gaze away from these conversions, but fear caused him to betray his sense of justice. With several other Christians Saint Valentine was tortured and martyred in the year 268.

This illustrious martyr has always been held in great honor in Rome, where there still exists a catacomb named for him.

Reflection: In the cause of justice and truth, human prudence should not be consulted; in that case, it is mere human respect. Saint Paul says: "The wisdom of this world is foolishness with God." (I Cor. 3:19)

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February 13th, Ferial Day

Novena to St. Agatha:
Feb. 5th - Feb. 13th Novena to St. Valentine: Feb. 6th - Feb. 14th The Little Office of the Blessed Virgin Mary, from Candlemas until Advent

On divine Love as the Virtue which Strengthens us.

by St. Alphonsus Liguori

Love is strong as death.--Cant. viii. 6. As there is no created strength which can resist death; so to the soul that loves God, there is no difficulty which yields not to love. When the soul that loves would please its beloved, love overcomes all losses, contempt, and sorrows: "Nothing is so hard but that it may be conquered by the fire of love." This is the most certain mark by which to know whether a soul really loves God, its being as faithful to Him when things are adverse as when they are prosperous. St. Francis of Sales says: "that God is as amiable when He chastises us as when He consoles us, because he does both from love." Hence when He afflicts us the most in this life, He loves us the most. St. John Chrysostom considered St. Paul bound in chains more happy than St. Paul wrapt to the third heavens.

Hence the holy martyrs, in the midst of their torments, rejoiced and gave thanks to God for the great favour which He conferred upon them in allowing them to suffer for His love. And the other saints, where tyrants were wanting to afflict them, became their own tormentors by the penances which they imposed upon themselves, in order to please God. St. Augustin says: "He who loves, either does not feel labour, or loves it."

Affections and Prayers:

O God of my soul, I say that I love thee, and yet what do I do for Thy love? Nothing. It is a sign therefore that I either do not love Thee, or love Thee not enough. Send therefore, O Jesus, the Holy Ghost upon me, to come and strengthen me to do and to suffer something for Thy love, before death overtake me. Suffer me not, O Lord, to depart out of this life cold: and ungrateful, as I have hitherto been. Give me strength to love sufferings, on account of the many sins by which I have deserved hell.

O my God, who art all goodness and all love, Thou desirest to dwell in my soul, from which I have so often expelled Thee: come and take possession of it, dwell within it and make it air Thine own. I love Thee, O my Lord, and if I love Thee thou art with me, as St. John assures me: He that abideth in charity, abideth in God, and God in him.--1 St. John iv. 16. Since therefore Thou art with me, increase the flames, the chains of Thy love, that I may neither desire, nor seek, nor love any other but Thee, and thus bound: by Thy love never separate myself from Thee any more. I desire, O Jesus, to be Thine, to be all Thine. O Mary, my Queen and advocate, obtain for me love and holy perseverance. Amen

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February 12th, Seven Holy Founders of the Order of Servants of the Blessed Virgin Mary, Confessors. Septuagesima Sunday

Manner of Hearing Mass At Home: For those who on account of sickness, old age, or for other proper reasons cannot assist at holy Mass, especially on Sundays and Holidays Septuagesima Sunday Septuagesima Sunday:
for Children and Parents Septuagesima Sunday:
Epistle and Gospel The Seven Holy Founders of the Order of Servants of the Blessed Virgin Mary, Confessors St. Philip Benizi Temptations and the Devils
who Tempt

Novena to St. Agatha:
Feb. 5th - Feb. 13th Novena to St. Valentine:
Feb. 6th - Feb. 14th The Little Office of the Blessed Virgin Mary, from Candlemas until Advent Daily Rosary: Joyful Mysteries with Meditations Daily Rosary: Sorrowful Mysteries with Meditations Daily Rosary: Glorious Mysteries with Meditations Index of Prayers for the Holy Souls in Purgatory

O God, Who, to honor the memory of Thy most holy Mother's sorrows, didst, by means of seven blessed Fathers, beget within Thy Church a new family of her Servants: mercifully grant that we may so share their weeping that we may also enjoy their bliss. Who liveth and reigneth with Thee in the unity of the Holy Ghost, one God, world without end. Amen.

(Roman Breviary)

Hymn: Sic patres vitam

The fathers lived a life in shade, Yet seemed to Peter's vision seven White glistening lilies for the Maid, The Queen of heaven,

Through city streets, o'er hills and plains, Upborne by love divine, they trod, To fix in men the Mother's pains, The swords of God.

This was the power in which they spoke, Till each wild passion owned their sway: They cheered the sad, from sinners broke Their chains away.

Till at last the Virgin Queen Led them to mansions in the sky, Mansions where garlands aye are green, And never die.

May they hear cries of all who pray, And see how hard our earthly strife: Aiding us onward to the day When all is life.

Now to the Father thanks and praise; To Thee, O Son, the same we send; To thee, great Spirit, through all days, World without end. Amen

When in the thirteenth century the most cultured peoples of Italy were divided by bloodthirsty factions and by the dreadful schism fostered by Frederick II, the merciful providence of God raised up, among others remarkable for holiness, seven men of the nobility of Florence, who were united by mutual affection, and afforded a notable example of brotherly love. These men were: Bonfilio Monaldi, Bonagiunta Manetti, Manettus dell' Antella, Amadeus de Amadei, Hugo Lippi, Gerard Sostegni, and Alexis Falconieri. In the year 1233, on the feast of the Assumption of the blessed Virgin, while they were fervently praying in a certain convent of pious men, called the Praisers, each one of them was urged by the Mother of God herself in a vision, to embrace a more holy and more perfect life. Therefore, having first conferred on the matter with the bishop of Florence, these seven men, laying aside their wealth and rank, and clothing themselves in hair-shirts under very old and ragged garments, on September 8 withdrew to a humble retreat in the country, desiring to begin their holier life on the very day when the Mother of God herself began her own most holy life upon earth.

God showed by a miracle that their manner of life was pleasing to him. For one day shortly afterwards, when these seven men were begging alms from door to door throughout the city of Florence, it happened that they were acclaimed by the voices of children, among whom was St. Philip Benizi, then only five months old, as the Servants of blessed Mary, which was to be always their title in the future. Wherefore to avoid crowds of people, and led by their love of solitude, they all withdrew to the solitude of Monte Senario, and there adopted a manner of life almost heavenly. For they lived in caves, took no food but herbs and water, and subdued their bodies by vigils and other austerities, continually meditating on the passion of Christ and the sorrows of his afflicted Mother.

One Good Friday when they were absorbed in fervent prayer, the blessed Virgin appeared to them all in person a second time, and showed them the somber habit they were to adopt; and told them that she wished them to found a new order of religious in the Church, whose mission was to cultivate and spread devotion to the sorrows which she endured beneath the cross of the Lord. Holy Peter, illustrious Martyr of the Order of Preachers, learned this from familiar association with these holy men, and also from a strange vision of the Mother of God. it was at his instance, that they founded the regular Order under the title of Servants of the Blessed Virgin; which later was approved by the sovereign Pontiff Innocent IV.

These holy men were soon joined by many companions, and began to preach Christ crucified everywhere in the towns and cities of Italy, especially in Tuscany. They brought civil feuds to an end, and brought back almost innumerable sinners to the paths of virtue. Not only Italy, but France, Germany and Poland benefited by their evangelical labors. Finally, after having diffused the good odor of Christ far and wide, and also being illustrious in the glory of miracles, they passed to the Lord. In life they were one in their love of religion and of true brotherhood, in death they were united in one tomb and in the veneration of the people.

†

February 11th, Apparition of Our Lady of Lourdes

Our Lady of Lourdes Novena in Honor of Our Lady of Lourdes and St. Bernadette In Defense of the Miracles of Lourdes, A History of Its Apparitions and Cures St. Bernadette Soubirous, Virgin Inspirational Account of the Life of St. Bernadette and the Apparition of Lourdes Index of Prayers and
Devotions for the Sick Immaculate Conception History and Defense of the Immaculate Conception Devotion in honor of the Immaculate Conception

Novena to St. Agatha:
Feb. 5th - Feb. 13th Novena to St. Valentine: Feb. 6th - Feb. 14th The Little Office of the Blessed Virgin Mary, from Candlemas until Advent Daily Rosary: Joyful Mysteries with Meditations Daily Rosary: Sorrowful Mysteries with Meditations Daily Rosary: Glorious Mysteries with Meditations

Related links for the Sacrament of Penance

Sacrament of Penance The Sacrament of Penance, All of Your Questions Answered Examination of Conscience Rite of Confession General Confession The Necessity of Avoiding Occasions of Sin
by St. Alphonsus Liguori Contrition The False Peace of a Sinful Conscience, by Fr. Hunolt, 1691-1746 Render an Account of Your Life: A Must Read for Every Soul The Conversion of Sinners Penitent's Consolation The Nature of Sin Mortal Sin True Conversion: One of the best sermons for hardened sinners Conscience

O God, Who by the Immaculate Conception of the Virgin didst prepare a worthy dwelling for Thy Son: we humbly beseech Thee, that we who celebrate the Apparition of the same Virgin may win health of mind and body. Through our Lord Jesus Christ, Thy Son, Who liveth and reigneth with Thee in the unity of the Holy Ghost, one God, world without end. Amen.

(Roman Breviary)

In the fourth year after the definition of the dogma of the Immaculate Conception of the blessed Virgin, the Virgin herself deigned to appear on several occasions to a certain very poor but pious and innocent girl named Bernadette, in a rocky cavern overlooking the grotto of Massabielle, on the banks of the river Gave, near the town of Lourdes in the diocese of Tarbes in France. The Immaculate Virgin showed herself as a young and gracious figure, robed in white, with a white veil and blue girdle, and golden roses on her bare feet. At the first apparition on February 11, 1858, she taught the child to make the sign of the cross correctly and devoutly, and, taking a chaplet from her own arm, encouraged her by example to say the holy rosary; this was also repeated in the subsequent apparitions.

On the second day the girl, who feared some deceit of the devil, in all simplicity cast holy water at the Virgin, who smiled more graciously than before. At the third apparition, the girl was invited to repeat her visits to the grotto for fifteen days. During this time the Virgin conversed with her, exhorted her to pray for sinners, to kiss the ground and do penance; and finally commanded her to tell the priests, that a chapel was to be built in that place, and that pilgrims should come to it solemnly in prayer. She was also told to drink and wash in the water from a spring, until the invisible, but which soon gushed out of the ground. On the feast of the Annunciation the girl earnestly begged the Virgin, who had so often visited her, to reveal her name, and joining her hands and raising her eyes to heaven, she said: I am the Immaculate Conception.

†

February 10th,
St. Scholastica, Virgin

St. Scholastica, Virgin Novena to Our Lady of Lourdes: Feb. 3rd - Feb. 11th Novena to St. Agatha:
Feb. 5th - Feb. 13th Novena to St. Valentine: Feb. 6th - Feb. 14th The Little Office of the Blessed Virgin Mary, from Candlemas until Advent The Little Office of the Blessed Virgin Mary, from Candlemas until Advent

O God, Who, to show us the path of innocence, didst cause the soul of Thy blessed virgin Scholastica to go up into heaven in the form of a dove: grant that by the help of her merits and prayers, we may live in such innocence as to be worthy to win everlasting bliss. Through our Lord Jesus Christ, Thy Son, Who liveth and reigneth with Thee in the unity of the Holy Ghost, one God, world without end. Amen.

(Roman Breviary)

Of this Saint but little is known on earth, save that she was the sister of the great patriarch St. Benedict, and that, under his direction, she founded and governed a numerous community near Monte Casino. St. Gregory sums up her life by saying that she devoted herself to God from her childhood, and that her pure soul went to God in the likeness of a dove, as if to show that her life had been enriched with the fullest gifts of the Holy Spirit. Her brother was accustomed to visit her every year, for "she could not be sated or wearied with the words of grace which flowed from his lips."

On his last visit, after a day passed in spiritual converse, the Saint, knowing that her end was near, said, "My brother, leave me not, I pray you, this night, but discourse with me till dawn on the bliss of those who see God in heaven." St. Benedict would not, break his rule at the bidding of natural affection; and then the Saint bowed her head on her hands and prayed; and there arose a storm so violent that St. Benedict could not return to his monastery, and they passed the night in heavenly conversation. Three days later St. Benedict saw in a vision the soul of his sister going up in the likeness of a dove into heaven. Then he gave thanks to God for the graces He had given her, and for the glory which had crowned them.

When she died, St. Benedict, her spiritual daughters, and the monks sent by St. Benedict mingled their tears and prayed, "Alas! alas! dearest mother, to whom dost thou leave us now? Pray for us to Jesus, to Whom thou art gone." They then devoutly celebrated holy Mass, "commending her soul to God;" and her body was borne to Monte Casino, and laid by her brother in the tomb he had prepared for himself." And they bewailed her many days;" and St. Benedict said, "Weep not, sisters and brothers; for assuredly Jesus has taken her before us to be our aid and defence against all our enemies, that we may stand in the evil day and be in all things perfect." She died about the year 543.

Reflection.--Our relatives must be loved in and for God; otherwise the purest affection becomes inordinate and is so much taken from Him.

†

February 9th,
St. Cyril of Alexandria, Bishop, Confessor and Doctor of the Church

St. Cyril Bishop of Alexandria, Confessor, and Doctor of the Church and St. Apollonia, Virgin and Martyr In Defense of Mary
The Mother of God Part 12: Resisting the Enemies of Our Salvation Novena to Our Lady of Lourdes: Feb. 3rd - Feb. 11th Novena to St. Agatha:
Feb. 5th - Feb. 13th Novena to St. Valentine: Feb. 6th - Feb. 14th The Little Office of the Blessed Virgin Mary, from Candlemas until Advent

The following links are particularly relevant today. All Catholics must thoroughly know and firmly believe the infallable teachings of the Catholic Church, or else they will be deceived by false teachers and false prophets and lose their souls. St. Paul warned against this when he wrote to the Galatians: "But though we, or an angel from heaven, preach a gospel to you besides that which we have preached to you, let him be anathema. As we said before, so now I say again: If any one preach to you a gospel, besides that which you have received, let him be anathema.--Galatians 1: 8-9

Litany of Faith and the Necessity of the Catholic Faith for Salvation Are we bound to profess our Catholic Faith openly? What Cannot and What Can Be Reformed in the Church. What Every Christian Must Believe and Do to be Saved. How Catholics lose the Faith by Fr. Michael Muller The Heresy of Indifferentism: the Consequence of Luther's Heresy of Faith Alone Why the Catholic Church Condemns Attendance at False Worship by Michael Mueller, 1874 Abjuration of Heresy and Profession of Faith of the Council of Trent, Pius IV., 1565 Unworthy Communion: Applies to Divorced and Remarried Catholics

O God, Who didst make blessed Cyril, Thy Confessor and Bishop, the invincible champion of the divine motherhood of the most blessed Virgin Mary: grant through his intercession, that we who believe her to be truly the Mother of God may be saved by her motherly care. Through our Lord Jesus Christ, Thy Son, Who liveth and reigneth with Thee in the unity of the Holy Ghost, one God, world without end. Amen.

(Roman Breviary)

St. Cyril became Patriarch of Alexandria in 412. Having at first thrown himself with ardor into the party politics of the place, God called him to a nobler conflict. In 428, Nestorius, Bishop of Constantinople, began to deny the unity of Person in Christ, and to refuse to the Blessed Virgin the title of "Mother of God." He was strongly supported by disciples and friends throughout the East. As the assertion of the divine maternity of Our Lady was necessary to the integrity of the doctrine of the Incarnation, so, with St. Cyril, devotion to the Mother was the necessary complement of his devotion to the Son. St. Cyril, after expostulating in vain, accused Nestorius to Pope Celestine. The Pope commanded retraction, under pain of separation from the Church, and intrusted St. Cyril with the conduct of the proceedings.

The appointed day, June 7, 431, found Nestorius and Cyril at Ephesus, with over 200 bishops. After waiting twelve days in vain for the Syrian bishops, the council with Cyril tried Nestorius, and deposed him from his see. Upon this the Syrians and Nestorians excommunicated St. Cyril, and complained of him to the emperor as a peace-breaker. Imprisoned and threatened with banishment, the Saint rejoiced to confess Christ by suffering. In time it was recognized that St. Cyril was right, and with him the Church triumphed. Forgetting his wrongs, and careless of controversial punctilio, Cyril then reconciled himself with all who would consent to hold the doctrine of the Incarnation intact. He died in 444.

Reflection.--The Incarnation is the mystery of God's dwelling within us, and therefore should be the dearest object of our contemplation. It was the passion of St. Cyril's life; for it he underwent toil and persecution, and willingly sacrificed credit and friends.

February 9th,
St. Apolonia, Virgin and Martyr

O God, Who amongst the many marvels of Thy power hast granted the triumph of martyrdom even to weak women: grant in Thy mercy, that we, who keep the festival of blessed Apollonia, Thy Virgin and Martyr, may, by her example, advance nearer to Thee. Through our Lord Jesus Christ, Thy Son, Who liveth and reigneth with Thee in the unity of the Holy Ghost, one God, world without end. Amen.

(Roman Breviary)

At Alexandria, in 249, the mob rose in savage fury against the Christians. Metras, an old man, perished first. His eyes were pierced with reeds, and he was stoned to death. A woman named Quinta was the next victim. She was led to a heathen temple and bidden worship. She replied by cursing the false god again and again, and she too was stoned to death. After this the houses of the Christians were sacked and plundered. They took the spoiling of their goods with all joy.

St. Apollonia, an aged virgin, was the most famous among the martyrs. Her teeth were beaten out; she was led outside the city, a huge fire was kindled, and she was told she must deny Christ, or else be burned alive. She was silent for a while, and then, moved by a special inspiration of the Holy Ghost, she leaped into the fire and died in its flames. The same courage showed itself the next year, when Decius became emperor, and the persecution grew till it seemed as if the very elect must fall away. The story of Dioscorus illustrates the courage of the Alexandrian Christians, and the esteem they had for martyrdom. He was a boy of fifteen.

To the arguments of the judge he returned wise answers: he was proof against torture. His older companions were executed, but Dioscorus was spared on account of his tender years; yet the Christians could not bear to think that he had been deprived of the martyr's crown, except to receive it afterwards more gloriously. "Dioscorus," writes Dionysius, Bishop of Alexandria at this time, "remains with us, reserved for some longer and greater combat." There were indeed many Christians who came, pale and trembling, to offer the heathen sacrifices. But the judges themselves were struck with horror at the multitudes who rushed to martyrdom. Women triumphed over torture, till at last the judges were glad to execute them at once and put an end to the ignominy of their own defeat.

Reflection.--Many saints, who were not martyrs, have longed to shed their blood for Christ. We, too, may pray for some portion of their spirit; and the least suffering for the faith, borne with humility and courage, is the proof that Christ has heard our prayer.

†

February 8th,
St. John of Matha, Confessor

St. John of Matha, Confessor Novena to Our Lady of Lourdes: Feb. 3rd - Feb. 11th Novena to St. Agatha:
Feb. 5th - Feb. 13th Novena to St. Valentine: Feb. 6th - Feb. 14th The Little Office of the Blessed Virgin Mary, from Candlemas until Advent

O God, Who by heavenly power, and through holy John, didst found the Order of the most holy Trinity for ransoming prisoners from the power of the Saracens: grant, we beseech thee, that by virtue of his helpful merits pleading for us we may, by Thy help, be delivered from all bondage, whether of soul or body. Through our Lord Jesus Christ, Thy Son, Who liveth and reigneth with Thee in the unity of the Holy Ghost, one God, world without end. Amen.

(Roman Breviary)

The life of St. John of Matha was one long course of self-sacrifice for the glory of God and the good of his neighbor. As a child, his chief delight was serving the poor; and he often told them he had come into the world for no other end but to wash their feet. He studied at Paris with such distinction that his professors advised him to become a priest, in order that his talents might render greater service to others; and, for this end, John gladly sacrificed his high rank and other worldly advantages.

At his first Mass an angel appeared, clad in white, with a red and blue cross on his breast, and his hands reposing on the heads of a Christian and a Moorish captive. To ascertain what this signified, John repaired to St. Felix of Valois, a holy hermit living near Meaux, under whose direction he led a life of extreme penance. The angel again appeared, and they then set out for Rome, to learn the will of God from the lips of the Sovereign Pontiff, who told them to devote themselves to the redemption of captives. For this purpose they founded the Order of the Holy Trinity. The religious fasted every day, and gathering alms throughout Europe took them to Barbary, to redeem the Christian slaves. They devoted themselves also to the sick and prisoners in all countries. The charity of St. John in devoting his life to the redemption of captives was visibly blessed by God.

On his second return from Tunis he brought back one hundred and twenty liberated slaves. But the Moors attacked him at sea, overpowered his vessel, and doomed it to destruction, with all on board, by taking away the rudder and sails, and leaving it to the mercy of the winds. St. John tied his cloak to the mast, and prayed, saying, "Let God arise, and let His enemies be scattered. O Lord, Thou wilt save the humble, and wilt bring down the eyes of the proud." Suddenly the wind filled the small sail, and, without guidance, carried the ship safely in a few days to Ostia, the port of Rome, three hundred leagues from Tunis. Worn out by his heroic labors, John died in 1213, at the age of fifty-three.

Reflection.--Let us never forget that our blessed Lord, bade us love our neighbor not only as ourselves, but as He loved us, Who afterwards sacrificed Himself for us.

†

February 7th,
St. Romuald, Abbot

St. Romuald, Abot How to Merit from Suffering Novena to Our Lady of Lourdes: Feb. 3rd - Feb. 11th Novena to St. Agatha:
Feb. 5th - Feb. 13th Novena to St. Valentine: Feb. 6th - Feb. 14th The Little Office of the Blessed Virgin Mary, from Candlemas until Advent

May the intercession of the blessed Abbot Romuald procure favor for us, we beseech Thee, O Lord: That we may gain, by his patronage, those things of which we are not capable by our own merits. Through our Lord Jesus Christ, Thy Son, Who liveth and reigneth with Thee in the unity of the Holy Ghost, one God, world without end. Amen.

(Roman Breviary)

In 976, Sergius, a nobleman of Ravenna, quarrelled with a relative about an estate, and slew him in a duel. His son Romuald, horrified at his father's crime, entered the Benedictine monastery at Classe, to do a forty days' penance for him. This penance ended in his own vocation to religion. After three years at Classe, Romuald went to live as a hermit near Venice, where he was joined by Peter Urseolus, Duke of Venice, and together they led a most austere life in the midst of assaults from the evil spirits. St. Romuald founded many monasteries, the chief of which was that at Camaldoli, a wild desert place, where he built a church, which he surrounded with a number of separate cells for the solitaries who lived under his rule. His disciples were hence called Camaldolese. He is said to have seen here a vision of a mystic ladder, and his white-clothed monks ascending by it to heaven. Among his first disciples were Sts. Adalbert and Boniface, apostles of Russia, and Sts. John and Benedict of Poland, martyrs for the faith. He was an intimate friend of the Emperor St. Henry, and was reverenced and consulted by many great men of his time. He once passed seven years in solitude and complete silence.

In his youth St. Romuald was much troubled by temptations of the flesh. To escape them he had recourse to hunting, and in the woods first conceived his love for solitude. His father's sin, as we have seen, first prompted him to undertake a forty days' penance in the monastery, which he forthwith made his home. Some bad example of his fellow monks induced him to leave them and adopt the solitary mode of life. The penance of Urseolus, who had obtained his power wrongfully, brought him his first disciple; the temptations of the devil compelled him to his severe life; and finally the persecutions of others were the occasion of his settlement at Camaldoli, and the foundation of his Order. He died, as he had foretold twenty years before, alone, in his monastery of Val Castro, on the 19th of June, 1027.

†

February 6th,
St. Titus, Bishop and Confessor

St. Titus, Bishop and Confessor Novena to Our Lady of Lourdes: Feb. 3rd - Feb. 11th Novena to St. Agatha:
Feb. 5th - Feb. 13th Novena to St. Valentine: Feb. 6th - Feb. 14th The Little Office of the Blessed Virgin Mary, from Candlemas until Advent

O God, Who didst adorn blessed Titus, Thy Confessor and Bishop with apostolic virtues: grant through his merits and intercession, that we may live righteous and godly lives in this world, and be worthy to arrive at our heavenly country. Through our Lord Jesus Christ, Thy Son, Who liveth and reigneth with Thee in the unity of the Holy Ghost, one God, world without end. Amen.

(Roman Breviary)

St. Titus was a convert from heathenism, a disciple of St. Paul, one of the chosen companions of the Apostles in his journey to the Council of Jerusalem, and his fellow-laborers in many apostolic missions. From the Second Epistle which St. Paul sent by the hand of Titus to the Corinthians we gain an insight into his character and understand the strong affection which his master bore him. Titus had been commissioned to carry out a twofold office needing much firmness, discretion, and charity.

He was to be the bearer of a severe rebuke to the Corinthians, who were giving scandal and were wavering in their faith; and at the same time he was to put their charity to a further test by calling upon them for abundant alms for the church at Jerusalem. St. Paul meanwhile was anxiously awaiting the result. At Troas he writes, " I had no rest in my spirit, because I found not Titus, my brother." He set sail to Macedonia. Here at last Titus brought the good news. His success had been complete. He reported the sorrow, the zeal, the generosity of the Christians, till the Apostle could not contain his joy, and sent back to them his faithful messenger with the letter of comfort from which we have quoted. Titus was finally left as a bishop in Crete, and here he, in turn, received the epistle which bears his name, and here at last he died in peace.

The mission of Titus to Corinth shows us how well the disciple caught the spirit of his master. He knew how to be firm and to inspire respect. The Corinthians, we are told, "received him with fear and trembling." He was patient and painstaking. St. Paul "gave thanks to God, Who had put such carefulness for them in the heart of Titus." And these gifts were enhanced by a quickness to detect and call out all that was good in others, and by a joyousness which overflowed upon the spirit of St. Paul himself, who "abundantly rejoiced in the joy of Titus."

May blessed Dorothy, Thy Virgin and Martyr earnestly entreat for us pardon from Thee, we beseech Thee, O Lord: for both by her chastity and by her acknowledgment of Thy power she ever pleased Thee well. Through our Lord etc. (Roman Breviary)

February 6th,
St. Dorothy, Virgin and Martyr

St. Dorothy was a young virgin, celebrated at Caesarea, where she lived, for her angelic virtue. Her parents seem to have been martyred before her in the Diocletian persecution, and when the Governor Sapricius came to Caesarea he called her before him, and sent this child of martyrs to the home where they were waiting for her.

She was stretched upon the rack, and offered marriage if she would consent to sacrifice, or death if she refused. But she replied that "Christ was her only Spouse, and death her desire." She was then placed in charge of two women who had fallen away from the faith, in the hope that they might pervert her; but the fire of her own heart rekindled the flame in theirs, and led them back to Christ. When she was set once more on the rack, Sapricius himself was amazed at the heavenly look she wore, and asked her the cause of her joy. "Because," she said, "I have brought back two souls to Christ, and because I shall soon be in heaven rejoicing with the angels." Her joy grew as she was buffeted in the face and her sides burned with plates of red-hot iron. "Blessed be Thou," she cried, when she was sentenced to be beheaded," blessed be Thou, O Thou Lover of souls! Who dost call me to Paradise, and invitest me to Thy nuptial chamber."

St. Dorothy suffered in the dead of winter, and it is said that on the road to her passion a lawyer called Theophilus, who had been used to calumniate and persecute the Christians, asked her, in mockery, to send him " apples or roses from the garden of her Spouse." The Saint promised to grant his request, and, just before she died, a little child stood by her side bearing three apples and three roses. She bade him take them to Theophilus and tell him this was the present which he sought from the garden of her Spouse. St. Dorothy had gone to heaven and Theophilus was still making merry over his challenge to the Saint when the child entered his room. He saw that the child was an angel in disguise, and the fruit and flowers of no earthly growth. He was converted to the faith, and then shared in the martyrdom of St. Dorothy.

†

February 5th,
St. Agatha, Virgin and Martyr

5th Sunday After Epiphany Newly Added
5th Sunday After Epiphany:
Sermon for Children and Adults
Newly Added
5th Sunday After Epiphany: Explanation of the Epistle and Gospel
Manner of Hearing Mass At Home: For those who on account of sickness, old age, or for other proper reasons cannot assist at holy Mass, especially on Sundays and Holidays Spiritual Communion

St. Agatha, Virgin Martyr Novena to St. Agatha:
Feb. 5th - Feb. 13th Moral Teaching on Unchaste Thoughts and Desires Part 5: The Devils Plan to Ruin Souls and the Protection of the Holy Angels Holy Purity Novena to Our Lady of Lourdes: Feb. 3rd - Feb. 11th The Little Office of the Blessed Virgin Mary, from Candlemas until Advent

O God, Who amongst the many marvels of Thy power hast granted the triumph of martyrdom even to weak women: grant in Thy mercy, that we, who keep the festival of blessed Agatha, Thy Virgin and Martyr, may, by her example, advance nearer to thee. Through our Lord Jesus Christ, Thy Son, Who liveth and reigneth with Thee in the unity of the Holy Ghost, one God, world without end. Amen.

(Roman Breviary)

St. Agatha was born in Sicily, of rich and noble parents--a child of benediction from the first, for she was promised to her parents before her birth, and conse- crated from her earliest infancy to God. In the midst of dangers and temptations she served Christ in purity of body and soul, and she died for the love of chastity. Quintanus, who governed Sicily under the Emperor Deems, had heard the rumor of her beauty and wealth, and he made the laws against the Christians a pretext for summoning her from Palermo to Catania, where he was at the time. "O Jesus Christ!" she cried, as she set out on this dreaded journey," all that I am is Thine; preserve me against the tyrant."

And Our Lord did indeed preserve one who had given herself so utterly to Him. He kept her pure and undented while she was imprisoned for a whole month under charge of an evil woman. He gave her strength to reply to the offer of her life and safety, if she would but consent to sin, "Christ alone is my life and my salvation." When Quintanus turned from passion to cruelty, and cut off her breasts, Our Lord sent the Prince of His apostles to heal her. And when, after she had been rolled naked upon potsherds, she asked that her torments might be ended, her Spouse heard her prayer and took her to Himself.

St. Agatha gave herself without reserve to Jesus Christ; she followed Him in virginal purity, and then looked to Him for protection. And down to this day Christ has shown His tender regard for the very body of St. Agatha. Again and again, during the eruptions of Mount Etna, the people of Catania have exposed her veil for public veneration, and found safety by this means; and in modern times, on opening the tomb in which her body lies waiting for the resurrection, they beheld the skin still entire, and felt the sweet fragrance which issued from the temple of the Holy Ghost.

Reflection.--Purity is a gift of God: we can gain it and preserve it only by care and diligence in avoiding all that may prove an incentive to sin.

Hymn: Jesu Corona Virginum

Jesu, the Virgins' crown, do thou Accept us as in prayer we bow; Born of that Virgin, whom alone The Mother and the Maid we own.

Amongst the lilies thou dost feed, By Virgin choirs accompanied; With glory decked, the spotless brides Whose bridal gifts thy love provides.

They, wheresoe'er thy footsteps bend, With hymns and praises still attend: In blessed troops they follow thee, With dance, and song, and melody.

We pray Thee therefore to bestow Upon our senses here below Thy grace, that so we may endure From taint of all corruption pure.

To God the Father, God the Son, And God the Spirit, Three in One, Laud, honor, might, and glory be From age to age eternally. Amen

(Roman Breviary)

†

February 4th,
Anthony Corsini, Bishop and Confessor. First Saturday

First Saturday Devotions St. Andrew Corsini, Bishop and Confessor Novena to Our Lady of Lourdes: Feb. 3rd - Feb. 11th The Little Office of the Blessed Virgin Mary, from Candlemas until Advent

O God, Who dost gladden us at the yearly festival of blessed Blaise, Thy Martyr and Bishop: grant in Thy mercy, that we who keep his festival may also rejoice in his protection. Through our Lord Jesus Christ, Thy Son, Who liveth and reigneth with Thee in the unity of the Holy Ghost, one God, world without end. Amen.

(Roman Breviary)

Andrew, born at Florence, of the noble family of the Corsini, was a child born in answer to his parents' prayers, and was dedicated to the Blessed Virgin. For what manner of man he was to be was shown by a divine sign before he was born: for his pregnant mother dreamed she had given birth to a wolf, which ran to the Carmelite church, and was immediately changed into a lamb at the porch of that temple.

In youth, though educated piously and as befitting his rank, he gradually fell into vice, and was often rebuked by his mother. But when he learned that he had been dedicated by his parents' vow to the Virgin Mother of God, he was set on fire by divine love, and hearing of his mother's dream, entered the Order of the Carmelites; in which he was often molested by the devil with various temptations, but nothing could make him change his resolution of entering religion. He was shortly after sent to Paris and after completing the curriculum of studies and taking his degree, he returned to his own country, and was made superior of his order in Tuscany.

About that time the church of Fiesole lost its shepherd, and chose Andrew for its bishop; he thought himself unworthy of the office and for a long time hid himself until found outside the city, where he was betrayed by the voice of a child speaking miraculously, and, fearing to resist the will of God, he accepted the bishopric. When exalted to that dignity, he applied himself more than ever to the practice of humility, which he had always cultivated; and to the zeal of a shepherd he united tender compassion for the poor, almsgiving, constant prayer, watchings, and other practices of virtue, and he was also noted for the gift of prophecy so that his sanctity was proclaimed by all.

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February 3rd,
St. Blaise, Bishop and Martyr and One of the Fourteen Holy Helpers

First Friday Devotions Prayers, Devotions and
Novena to St. Blaise 14 Holy Helpers Index of Prayers and
Devotions for the Sick Novena to Our Lady of Lourdes: Feb. 3rd - Feb. 11th Saints: the Gift of Miracles The Little Office of the Blessed Virgin Mary, from Candlemas until Advent

O God, Who dost gladden us at the yearly festival of blessed Blaise, Thy Martyr and Bishop: grant in Thy mercy, that we who keep his festival may also rejoice in his protection. Through our Lord Jesus Christ, Thy Son, Who liveth and reigneth with Thee in the unity of the Holy Ghost, one God, world without end. Amen.

(Roman Breviary)

St. Blase devoted the earlier years of his life to the study of philosophy, and afterwards became a physician. In the practice of his profession he saw so much of the miseries of life and the hollowness of worldly pleasures, that he resolved to spend the rest of his days in the service of God, and from being a healer of bodily ailments to become a physician of souls. The Bishop of Sebaste, in Armenia, having died, our Saint, much to the gratification of the inhabitants of that city, was appointed to succeed him. St. Blase at once began to instruct his people as much by his example as by his words, and the great virtues and sanctity of this servant of God were attested by many miracles. From all parts the people came nocking to him for the cure of bodily and spiritual ills.

Agricolaus, Governor of Cappadocia and the Lesser Armenia, having begun a persecution by order of the Emperor Licinius, our Saint was seized and hurried off to prison. While on his way there, a distracted mother, whose only child was dying of a throat disease, threw herself at the feet of St. Blase and implored his intercession. Touched at her grief, the Saint offered up his prayers, and the child was cured; and since that time his aid has often been effectually solicited in cases of a similar disease. Refusing to worship the false gods of the heathens, St. Blase was first scourged; his body was then torn with hooks, and finally he was beheaded in the year 316.

Reflection.--There is no sacrifice which, by the aid of grace, human nature is not capable of accomplishing. When St. Paul complained to God of the violence of the temptation. God answered, " My grace is sufficient for thee, for power is made perfect in infirmity."

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February 2nd,
The Purification of the Blessed Virgin Mary

The Purification of the Blessed Virgin Mary Sermons and Prayers for the Purification The Presentation Candlemas Day: Epistle and Gospel and Explanation of the Feast Day Children's Sermons on the
Feast Day of Candlemas

Novena of the Purification:
Jan. 25th - Feb. 2nd Sacramentals: Blessed Candles The Little Office of the Blessed Virgin Mary, from Candlemas until Advent Novena to St. Blaise:
Jan. 26th - Feb. 3rd Index of Prayers for the Holy Souls in Purgatory Daily Rosary: Joyful Mysteries with Meditations Daily Rosary: Sorrowful Mysteries with Meditations Daily Rosary: Glorious Mysteries with Meditations

Almighty, everlasting God, we humbly beseech Thy majesty: that as Thy only-begotten Son was this day presented in the temple in the substance of our flesh, so Thou wouldst grant that we too may be presented unto Thee with hearts made clean. Through our Lord Jesus Christ, Thy Son, Who liveth and reigneth with Thee in the unity of the Holy Ghost, one God, world without end. Amen.

God hath chosen her, And forechosen her. God hath chosen.

V. He hath made her to dwell in His tabernacle. And forechosen her. Glory be to the Father. God hath chosen.

V. Grace is poured out on thy lips.

R. Therefore hath God blessed thee forever.

(Roman Breviary)

With the feast of the Purification ends the sanctoral Cycle of the Season after Epiphany. It is one of the oldest feasts of Our Lady, and in Rome in the seventh Century ranked after the Assumption. The law of God, given by Moses to the Jews, ordained that a woman, after childbirth, should continue for a certain time in a state which that law calls unclean, during which she was not to appear in public, nor presume to touch anything consecrated to God. This term was of forty days upon the birth of a son, and double that time for a daughter. On the expiration of the term, the mother was to bring to the door of the tabernacle, or Temple, a lamb and a young pigeon, or turtle-dove, as an offering to God. These being sacrificed to Almighty God by the priest, the woman, was cleansed of the legal impurity and reinstated in her former privileges.

A young pigeon, or turtle-dove, by way of a sin-offering, was required of all, whether rich or poor; but as the expense of a lamb might be too great for persons in poor circumstances, they were allowed to substitute for it a second dove.

Our Saviour having been conceived by the Holy Ghost, and His blessed Mother remaining always a spotless virgin, it is evident that she did not come under the law; but as the world was, as yet, ignorant of her miraculous conception, she submitted with great punctuality and exactness to every humbling circumstance which the law required. Devotion and zeal to honor God, by every observance prescribed by His law, prompted Mary to perform this act of religion, though evidently exempt from the precept. Being poor herself, she made the offering appointed for the poor; but, however mean in itself, it was made with a perfect heart, which is what God chiefly regards in all that is offered to Him. Besides the law which obliged the mother to purify herself, there was another which ordered that the first-born son should be offered to God, and that, after its presentation, the child should be ransomed with a certain sum of money, and peculiar sacrifices offered on the occasion.

Mary complies exactly with all these ordinances. She obeys not only in the essential points of the law, but has strict regard to all the circumstances. She remains forty days at home; she denies herself, all this time, the liberty of entering the Temple; she partakes not of things sacred; and on the day of her purification she walks several miles to Jerusalem, with the world's Redeemer in her arms. She waits for the priest at the gate of the Temple, makes her offerings of thanksgiving and expiation, presents her divine Son by the hands of the priest to His Eternal Father, with the most profound humility, adoration, and thanksgiving. She then redeems Him with five shekels, as the law appoints, and receives Him back again as a sacred charge committed to her special care, till the Father shall again demand Him for the full accomplishment of man's redemption.

The ceremony of this day was closed by a third mystery --the meeting in the Temple of the holy persons Simeon and Anne with Jesus and His parents. Holy Simeon, on that occasion, received into his arms the object of all his desires and sighs, and praised God for being blessed with the happiness of beholding the so-much-longed-for Messias. He foretold to Mary her martyrdom of sorrow, and that Jesus brought redemption to those who would accept of it on the terms it was offered them; but a heavy judgment on all infidels who should obstinately reject it, and on Christians, also, whose lives were a contradiction to His holy maxims and example. Mary, hearing this terrible prediction, did not answer one word, felt no agitation of mind from the present, no dread for the future; but courageously and sweetly committed all to God's holy will. Anne, also, the prophetess, who in her widowhood served God with great fervor, had the happiness to acknowledge and adore in this great mystery the Redeemer of the world. Simeon, having beheld Our Saviour, exclaimed: "Now dismiss Thy servant, O Lord, according to Thy word, because my eyes have seen Thy salvation."

This feast is called Candlemas, because the Church blesses the candles to be borne in the procession of the day. "The wax of the candles signifies the virginal flesh of the Divine Infant," says St. Anselm, "the wick figures His soul, and the flame His Divinity."

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February 1st, St. Ignatius of Antioch, Bishop, Confessor and Martyr. St. Brigid of Kildare (Historical Calendar)

St. Ignatius of Antioch,
Bishop and Martyr Newly Added
St. Brigid of Kildare, Virgin, Abbess and Patroness of Ireland
The Little Office of the Blessed Virgin Mary, from Vespers on Christmas Eve to the Purification Vol. 1, Part 2: The Ministry of Jesus Christ from the Latin Vulgate, as Illustrated by Catholic Artist and Historian, James Tissot, 1899 Novena of the Purification:
Jan. 25th - Feb. 2nd Novena to St. Blaise:
Jan. 26th - Feb. 3rd Index of Prayers for the Holy Souls in Purgatory Daily Rosary: Joyful Mysteries with Meditations Daily Rosary: Sorrowful Mysteries with Meditations Daily Rosary: Glorious Mysteries with Meditations

L ook upon our weakness, O almighty God: and because we are weighed down beneath the burden of our own deeds, let the glorious intercession of blessed Ignatius, Thy Martyr and Bishop, shield us. Through our Lord Jesus Christ, Thy Son, Who liveth and reigneth with Thee in the unity of the Holy Ghost, one God, world without end. Amen.

(Roman Breviary)

St. Ignatius, Bishop of Antioch, was the disciple of St. John. When Domitian persecuted the Church, St. Ignatius obtained peace for his own flock by fasting and prayer. But for his part he desired to suffer with Christ, and to prove himself a perfect disciple. In the year 107, Trajan came to Antioch, and forced the Christians to choose between apostasy and death. "Who art thou, poor devil," the emperor said when Ignatius was brought before him, "who settest our commands at naught?" "Call not him 'poor devil,'" Ignatius answered, who bears God within him." And when the emperor questioned him about his meaning, Ignatius explained that he bore in his heart Christ crucified for his sake. Thereupon the emperor condemned him to be torn to pieces by wild beasts at Rome. St. Ignatius thanked God, Who had so honored him, " binding him in the chains of Paul, His apostle."

He journeyed to Rome, guarded by soldiers, and with no fear except of losing the martyr's crown. He was devoured by lions in the Roman amphitheatre. The wild beasts left nothing of his body, except a few bones, which were reverently treasured at Antioch, until their removal to the Church of St. Clement at Rome, in 637. After the martyr's death, several Christians saw him in visions standing before Christ, and interceding for them.

Reflection.--Ask St. Ignatius to obtain for you the grace of profiting by all you have to suffer, and rejoicing in it as a means of likeness to your crucified Redeemer.

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January 31st,
St. John Bosco, Confessor

Prayers and Devotions
to St. John Bosco St. John Bosco's Novena to Our Lady Help of Christians: Jan. 23rd - Jan. 31st Don Bosco: A Sketch of His Life Life and Miracles, 1884 The Life of St. Dominic Savio,
Child Saint St. Dominic Savio, Patron of First Communicants Index of Children Prayers The Little Office of the Blessed Virgin Mary, from Vespers on Christmas Eve to the Purification Vol. 1, Part 2: The Ministry of Jesus Christ from the Latin Vulgate, as Illustrated by Catholic Artist and Historian, James Tissot, 1899 Novena to St. Ignatius of Loyola:
Jan. 24th - Feb. 1st Novena of the Purification:
Jan. 25th - Feb. 2nd Novena to St. Blaise:
Jan. 26th - Feb. 3rd Index of Prayers for the Holy Souls in Purgatory Mary Help of Christians Daily Rosary: Joyful Mysteries with Meditations Daily Rosary: Sorrowful Mysteries with Meditations Daily Rosary: Glorious Mysteries with Meditations

O God, Who hath raised up in Thy Confessor St. John Bosco a father and teacher of youth, and didst will that through him with the help of the Virgin Mary new religious families should flourish in the Church, grant, we beseech Thee, that enkindled by the same fire of charity we may be able to labor in finding souls and serve only Thee. Through our Lord Jesus Christ, Thy Son, Who liveth and reigneth with Thee in the unity of the Holy Ghost, one God, world without end. Amen.

(Roman Breviary)

This apostolic priest of modern times is hailed as the patron of youth. He was born in Castelnuovo, Italy, on August 16, 1815. As a youngster, he was employed for a time as a shepherd, and this leisurely work gave him opportunity for prayerful union with God which was so evident in the years of his labor for souls. As a young priest in Turin, he was under the guidance of Don Joseph Caffasso, now a saint. An act of kindness to a poor boy in 1842 began the work of charity associated with his name thereafter, the care of needy youth.

For them he organized clubs and night schools, giving them recreation and training. Despite obstacles and difficulties from all sides the endeavor, which included technical schools and work shops, grew until he had to found a society, the Salesians, to perpetuate it. The work for boys gradually branched into a work for needy girls, for whom a Community, Daughters of Mary, Help of Christians, was inaugurated. Don Bosco was beatified by Pope Pius XI in 1929. The same Pope, who had known the saintly priest, canonized him five years later. Bl. Dominic Savio, canonized in 1950, was one of the early pupils of the Salesians.

Reflection.--A personal love of Christ developed in his own youth was the source of the deep zeal for the young which characterized St. John Bosco's work. There is nothing as precious as a soul. St. John Chrysostom asks: "What is equal to that profession which is concerned with directing the soul and forming the mind and character of the young?"

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January 30th, St. Martina, Virgin and Martyr

St. Martina, Virgin and Martyr Veneration of the Saints

The Little Office of the Blessed Virgin Mary, from Vespers on Christmas Eve to the Purification Vol. 1, Part 2: The Ministry of Jesus Christ from the Latin Vulgate, as Illustrated by Catholic Artist and Historian, James Tissot, 1899 Meditations on the Holy Infancy St. John Bosco's Novena to Our Lady Help of Christians: Jan. 23rd - Jan. 31st Novena to St. Ignatius of Loyola: Jan. 24th - Feb. 1st Novena of the Purification: Jan. 25th - Feb. 2nd Novena to St. Blaise: Jan. 26th - Feb. 3rd Index of Prayers for the Holy Souls in Purgatory Daily Rosary: Joyful Mysteries with Meditations Daily Rosary: Sorrowful Mysteries with Meditations Daily Rosary: Glorious Mysteries with Meditations

O God, Who amongst the many marvels of Thy power hast granted the triumph of martyrdom even to weak women: grant in Thy mercy, that we, who keep the festival of blessed Martina, Thy Virgin and Martyr, may, by her example, advance nearer to Thee. Through our Lord Jesus Christ, Thy Son, Who liveth and reigneth with Thee in the unity of the Holy Ghost, one God, world without end. Amen.

(Roman Breviary)

Saint Martina, a Roman virgin, was the child of a noble Christian consul, of whom it was said that he was extremely merciful towards the poor, and very zealous for faith in the Most Holy Trinity. His daughter lost both her parents while she was still very young, and for love of Christ she distributed all she inherited to the poor, that she might be more free to hasten towards martyrdom, during the persecution which had recently begun.

Under the emperor Alexander Severus she was discovered in a church one day by three officers of a search party, and commanded to follow them to a temple of Apollo. She cheerfully agreed, saying she would do so after praying for a short time and taking leave of her bishop. The officers reported their important capture to the emperor, believing she would readily renounce her faith. But when he ordered her to speak, she replied that she would sacrifice to none other than the true God, and never to idols, the handiwork of men. She was tortured by iron hooks, but her executioners were thrown to the ground amid a great light as she prayed, and arose converted, like Saint Paul, to the Christian faith.

She was tormented again the following day before the emperor, cruelly scourged while attached by her hands and feet to posts. When, one day later, she was taken to a temple of Diana, the demon left amid horrible screams. Fire from heaven fell and burnt the idol, which in tumbling crushed many of its priests and pagan worshipers. Saint Martina, after suffering other tortures and being spared by an enraged lion and a fiery furnace, was finally beheaded. Her death occurred on January 1st during the fourth year of Alexander Severus.

Her relics were found in 1634, during the papacy of Urban VIII, near the Mamertine Prison, with those of several other martyrs. All were placed in a beautiful church dedicated to Saint Martina in the Roman Forum. Urban VIII spared no efforts in promoting her veneration; and through his solicitude the Office was enhanced with hymns for Matins and Lauds. In these we read that her soul rose to heaven, where she was seen afterwards upon a royal throne, while the Blessed sang praises to God.

Hymn: Non illam crucians

T he agonizing hooks, the rending scourge, Shook not the dauntless spirit in her breast; With torments racked, Angels her fainting flesh Recruit with heavenly feast. In vain they cast her to the ravening beasts;

C alm at her feet the lion crouches down; Till smitten by the sword at length she goes To her immortal crown. Now, with the Saints Martina reigns in bliss, And, where idolatry sat throned of yore, From her victorious altar praise and prayer With odorous incense soar.

O thou, the Martyrs' strength, all cheating joys expel, And fill us with thy bright and never-fading love; Show us the beam divine, which forms the crowning joy, God, Three in One, of bliss above. Amen

Hymn: Martinae celebri plaudite

W ith joyous songs, great Rome, Martina's fame extol, Her glowing praises tell, and all her mighty deeds; A Virgin pure and chaste, she leads a stainless life, And for her Lord a Martyr bleeds.

A happy home is hers, and all that makes this world So sweet, and fresh, and fair, to those who love its wiles: From noblest parents sprung, 'mid wealth, and love, and joy, Her life speeds on, 'mid naught but smiles.

T hese pleasures soon she spurns--her wealth she gladly gives To Christ's own blessed poor--herself, to God above; No other wealth she seeks save her own spotless Spouse, Forever blest in his pure love. Amen

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January 29th,
St. Francis De Sales, Bishop, Confessor and Doctor of the Church. 4th Sunday After the Epiphany

Prayers and Devotions and Novena to St. Francis De Sales Novena to St. Francis De Sales: Jan. 21st - Jan. 29th Introduction to a Devout Life No Salvation Outside the Catholic Church

4th Sunday After the Epiphany: The Calming of the Seas: 3 Sermons by Fr. Weninger           Newly Added
4th Sunday After Epiphany:
Sermon for Children and Adults
          Newly Added
4th Sunday After Epiphany: Explanation of the Epistle and Gospel and Providence of God
The Providence of God and why He permits evil Manner of Hearing Mass At Home: For those who on account of sickness, old age, or for other proper reasons cannot assist at holy Mass, especially on Sundays and Holidays Spiritual Communion St. Michael/ Exorcism Prayer: its Conditions and Circumstances

The Little Office of the Blessed Virgin Mary, from Vespers on Christmas Eve to the Purification Vol. 1, Part 2: The Ministry of Jesus Christ from the Latin Vulgate, as Illustrated by Catholic Artist and Historian, James Tissot, 1899 Meditations on the Holy Infancy St. John Bosco's Novena to Our Lady Help of Christians: Jan. 23rd - Jan. 31st Novena to St. Ignatius of Loyola: Jan. 24th - Feb. 1st Novena of the Purification: Jan. 25th - Feb. 2nd Novena to St. Blaise: Jan. 26th - Feb. 3rd Index of Prayers for the Holy Souls in Purgatory Daily Rosary: Joyful Mysteries with Meditations Daily Rosary: Sorrowful Mysteries with Meditations Daily Rosary: Glorious Mysteries with Meditations

O God, by whose gracious will blessed Francis, Thy Confessor and Bishop, became all things unto all men for the saving of their souls: mercifully grant, that, being filled with the sweetness of Thy love, we may, through the guidance of his counsels and by the aid of his merits, attain unto the joys of life eternal. Through our Lord Jesus Christ, Thy Son, Who liveth and reigneth with Thee in the unity of the Holy Ghost, one God, world without end. Amen.

(Roman Breviary)

Francis was born of pious and noble parents, in the town of Sales, whence the family name. From his earliest years, he gave pledge of his future sanctity by the innocence and gravity of his conduct. Having been instructed in the liberal sciences during his youth, he was sent early to Paris to study philosophy and theology; and that his education might be entirely complete, he took the degree of doctor in both laws, and with the greatest distinction. He visited the sanctuary of Loreto, where he renewed the vow of perpetual virginity, with which he had already bound himself in Paris; which virtue he observed in spite of all the temptations of the devil and all the allurements of the flesh.

He refused to accept a high dignity in the Senate of Savoy, and entered the clerical army. He was ordained priest, and was made provost of the diocese of Geneva. This charge he fulfilled so perfectly that Granier, his bishop, selected him for the arduous undertaking of laboring, by the preaching of God's word, for the conversion of the Calvinists of Chablais and the country about Geneva. This mission he undertook with much joy. He had to suffer the harshest treatment from the heretics, who frequently sought to take his life, calumniated him, and laid plots against him. But he showed heroic courage in the midst of all these dangers and persecutions, and by the divine assistance converted, as it is stated, seventy-two thousand heretics to the Catholic faith, among whom were many distinguished by high position and by their learning.

After the death of Granier, who had already made him his coadjutor, he was consecrated bishop of Geneva. Then his sanctity showed itself in every direction, by his zeal for ecclesiastical discipline, his desire for peace, his charity to the poor, and every virtue. For the greater glory of God, he founded a new Order of nuns, which he called the Visitation of the Blessed Virgin. These nuns follow the Rule of St. Augustine, but Francis added additional constitutions distinguished by wisdom, prudence and tenderness. He enlightened the Church by writings full of heavenly wisdom, which point out a safe and easy path to Christian perfection. At length, in his fifty-fifth year, while returning from France to Annecy, after having celebrated Mass at Lyons, on the Feast of St. John the Evangelist, he was stricken with a fatal disease, and on the following day he passed to heaven, in the year of our Lord 1622. His body was taken to Annecy, and was buried with great honor in the church of the nuns of the above-mentioned order and immediately he became distinguished for miracles. These were officially authenticated and he was placed among the number of the Saints by Pope Alexander VII, with January 29 assigned as his feast; and Pope Pius IX, after consulting the Congregation of Sacred Rites, declared him a Doctor of the universal Church.

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January 28th,
St. Peter Nolasco, Confessor

St. Peter Nolasco, Confessor Our Lady of Ransom

The Little Office of the Blessed Virgin Mary, from Vespers on Christmas Eve to the Purification Vol. 1, Part 2: The Ministry of Jesus Christ from the Latin Vulgate, as Illustrated by Catholic Artist and Historian, James Tissot, 1899 Meditations on the Holy Infancy Novena to St. Francis De Sales: Jan. 21st - Jan. 29th St. John Bosco's Novena to Our Lady Help of Christians: Jan. 23rd - Jan. 31st Novena to St. Ignatius of Loyola: Jan. 24th - Feb. 1st Novena of the Purification: Jan. 25th - Feb. 2nd Novena to St. Blaise: Jan. 26th - Feb. 3rd

Related links for the Sacrament of Penance

Sacrament of Penance The Sacrament of Penance, All of Your Questions Answered Examination of Conscience Rite of Confession General Confession The Necessity of Avoiding Occasions of Sin
by St. Alphonsus Liguori Contrition The False Peace of a Sinful Conscience, by Fr. Hunolt, 1691-1746 Render an Account of Your Life: A Must Read for Every Soul The Conversion of Sinners Penitent's Consolation The Nature of Sin Mortal Sin True Conversion: One of the best sermons for hardened sinners Conscience

O God, Who as an example of Thy love didst divinely inspire blessed Peter to beget within Thy Church a new family for the ransom of the faithful: grant through his intercession, that we may be loosed from the bonds of sin, and enjoy freedom for evermore in our heavenly country: Who liveth and reigneth with Thee in the unity of the Holy Ghost, one God, world without end. Amen.

(Roman Breviary)

St. Peter, of the noble family of Nolasco, was born in Languedoc, about 1189. At the age of twenty-five he took a vow of chastity, and gave over his vast estates to the Church. Some time after, he conceived the idea of establishing an order for the redemption of captives. The divine will was soon manifested. The Blessed Virgin appeared on the same night to Peter, to "Raymond of Pennafort, his confessor, and to James, King of Arragon, his ward, and bade them prosecute without fear their holy designs.

After great opposition, the Order was solemnly established, and approved by Gregory IX., under the name of Our Lady of Mercy. By the grace of God, and under the protection of His Virgin Mother, the Order spread rapidly, its growth being increased by the charity and piety of its members, who devoted themselves not only to collecting alms for the ransom of the Christians, but even gave themselves up to voluntary slavery to aid the good work.

Reflection.--St. Peter Nolasco and his knights were lay men, not priests, and yet they considered the salvation of their neighbor intrusted to them. "We can each of us by counsel, by prayer, but above all by holy example, assist the salvation, of our brethren, and thus secure our own.

January 28th,
Second Commemoration of St Agnes, Virgin and Martyr

This History of Virginity and the Life of St. Agnes Prayers and Devotions to St. Agnes

Almighty, everlasting God, Who choosest the weak things of the world to confound the strong; mercifully grant that we, who keep the solemn feast of blessed Agnes, Thy virgin and martyr, may enjoy her intercession with Thee. Through our Lord Jesus Christ, Thy Son, Who liveth and reigneth with Thee in the unity of the Holy Ghost, one God, world without end. Amen.

(Roman Breviary)

St. Agnes was but twelve years old. when she was led to the altar of Minerva at Rome and commanded to obey the persecuting laws of Diocletian by offering incense. In the midst of the idolatrous rites she raised her hands to Christ, her Spouse, and made the sign of the life-giving cross. She did not shrink when she was bound hand and foot, though the gyves slipped from her young hands, and the heathens who stood around were moved to tears.

The bonds were not needed for her, and she hastened gladly to the place of her torture. Next, when the judge saw that pain had no terrors for her, he inflicted an insult worse than death: her clothes were stripped off, and she had to stand in the street before a pagan crowd; yet even this did not daunt her. "Christ," she said, "will guard His own." So it was. Christ showed, by a miracle, the value which He sets upon the custody of the eyes. Whilst the crowd turned away their eyes from the spouse of Christ, as she stood exposed to view in the street, there was one young man who dared to gaze at the innocent child with immodest eyes. A flash of light struck him blind, and his companions bore him away half dead with pain and terror.

Lastly, her fidelity to Christ was tried by flattery and offers of marriage. But she answered, "Christ is my Spouse: He chose me first, and His I will be." At length the sentence of death was passed. For a moment she stood erect in prayer, and then bowed her neck to the sword. At one stroke her head was severed from her body, and the angels bore her pure soul to Paradise.

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January 27th,
St. John Chrysostom, Bishop, Confessor and Doctor of the Church

Prayers and Devotions to St. John Chrysostom The Little Office of the Blessed Virgin Mary, from Vespers on Christmas Eve to the Purification Vol. 1, Part 2: The Ministry of Jesus Christ from the Latin Vulgate, as Illustrated by Catholic Artist and Historian, James Tissot, 1899 Meditations on the Holy Infancy Novena to St. Francis De Sales: Jan. 21st - Jan. 29th St. John Bosco's Novena to Our Lady Help of Christians: Jan. 23rd - Jan. 31st Novena to St. Ignatius of Loyola: Jan. 24th - Feb. 1st Novena of the Purification: Jan. 25th - Feb. 2nd Novena to St. Blaise: Jan. 26th - Feb. 3rd

O Lord, we beseech Thee, let Thy heavenly grace give increase to Thy Church: which thou hast vouchsafed to make illustrious by the glorious merits and teaching of blessed John Chrysostom, Thy Confessor and Bishop. Through our Lord Jesus Christ, Thy Son, Who liveth and reigneth with Thee in the unity of the Holy Ghost, one God, world without end. Amen.

(Roman Breviary)

John was born at Antioch in 344. In order to break with a world which admired and courted him, he in 374 retired for six years to a neighboring mountain. Having thus acquired the art of Christian silence, he returned to Antioch, and there labored as priest, until he was ordained Bishop of Constantinople in 398. The effect of his sermons was everywhere marvelous. St. Nilus relates that St. John Chrysostom was wont to see, when the priest began the holy sacrifice, " many of the blessed ones coming down from heaven in shining garments, and with bare feet, eyes intent, and bowed heads, in utter stillness and silence, assisting at the consummation of the tremendous mystery."

Beloved as he was in Constantinople, his denunciations of vice made him numerous enemies. In 403 these procured his banishment; and although he was almost immediately recalled, it was not more than a reprieve. In 404 he was banished to Cucusus in the deserts of Taurus. In 407 he was wearing out, but his enemies were impatient. They hurried him off to Pytius on the Euxine, a rough journey of nigh 400 miles. He was assiduously exposed to every hardship, cold, wet, and semi-starvation, but nothing could overcome his cheerfulness and his consideration for others. On the journey his sickness increased, and he was warned that his end was nigh. Thereupon, exchanging his travel-stained clothes for white garments, he received Viaticum, and with his customary words, " Glory be to God for all things. Amen," passed to Christ.

The above image is a 3D sonogram of a baby 3 months old in the womb.

Today is the 44th Anniversary of the United States Supreme Courts infamous ruling, Roe vs Wade, that legalized the murder of unborn children. Since 1973, there have been over 59,738,000 abortions performed in the United States alone. Since 1980, the worldwide total number of abortions exceeds 1,442,308,500

Pro-life Video download, "The Silent Scream." A Chilling documentary by a former abortion doctor who proves abortion is murder. The video is graphic and not suitable for children.

Prayer of the Expectant Mother

O great St. Gerard, beloved Servant of Jesus Christ, perfect imitator of your meek and humble Savior, and devoted child of the Mother of God, enkindle within my heart one spark of that heavenly fire of charity which glowed in yours and made you a seraph of love. O glorious St. Gerard, because you bore, like your Divine Master, without murmur or complaint, the calumnies of wicked men when falsely accused of crime, you have been raised up by God as the Patron and Protector of expectant mothers: preserve me from danger and from the excessive pains accompanying childbirth, and shield the child which I now carry, that it may see the light of day and receive the lustral waters of Baptism. Through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. ( Say Nine Hail Marys.)

Links relevant to the Sin of Abortion:

Crimes Against Life The Killing of the Foetus, Casti Connubii A Series of Catholic Lectures
on the Evils of Abortion and
the Defense of the Unborn The Slaughter of the Holy Innocents & the Value of Children The 5th Commandment Examination of Conscience 5th Commandment Examination of Conscience 6th and 9th Commandment Four Sins Crying to Heaven for Vengeance Motives and Ends of Marriage Advantages of Christian Marriage Prayer Against the Forces of Anti-life God Will Punish You! Joyful Mysteries Sorrowful Mysteries Glorious Mysteries

Other related Links:

Prayers for Catholic Mothers Blessings of Many Children What is it to be a Mother? Prayer Book: The Christian Mother Prayer Book: The Christian Father

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January 26th,
St. Polycarp, Bishop and Martyr

St. Polycarp Bishop and Martyr Hell

The Little Office of the Blessed Virgin Mary, from Vespers on Christmas Eve to the Purification Vol. 1, Part 2: The Ministry of Jesus Christ from the Latin Vulgate, as Illustrated by Catholic Artist and Historian, James Tissot, 1899 Meditations on the Holy Infancy Novena to St. Francis De Sales: Jan. 21st - Jan. 29th St. John Bosco's Novena to Our Lady Help of Christians: Jan. 23rd - Jan. 31st Novena to St. Ignatius of Loyola: Jan. 24th - Feb. 1st Novena of the Purification: Jan. 25th - Feb. 2nd Novena to St. Blaise: Jan. 26th - Feb. 3rd

O God, Who dost gladden us at the yearly festival of blessed Polycarp, Thy Martyr and Bishop: grant in Thy mercy that we who keep his festival may also enjoy his protection. Through our Lord Jesus Christ, Thy Son, Who liveth and reigneth with Thee in the unity of the Holy Ghost, one God, world without end. Amen.

(Roman Breviary)

St. Polycarp, Bishop of Smyrna, was a disciple of St. John. He wrote to the Philippians, exhorting them to mutual love and to hatred of heresy. When the apostate Marcion met St. Polycarp at Rome, he asked the aged Saint if he knew him. "Yes," St. Polycarp answered, "I know you for the first-born of Satan." These were the words of a Saint most loving and most charitable, and specially noted for his compassion to sinners. He hated heresy, because he loved God and man so much. In 167, persecution broke out in Smyrna.

When Polycarp heard that his pursuers were at the door, he said, "The will of God be done," and meeting them, he begged to be left alone for a little time, which he spent in prayer for "the Catholic Church throughout the world." He was brought to Smyrna early on Holy Saturday; and, as he entered, a voice was heard from heaven, "Polycarp, be strong." When the proconsul besought him to curse Christ and go free, Polycarp answered, "Eighty-six years I have served Him, and He never did me wrong; how can I blaspheme my King and Saviour?"

When he threatened him with fire, Polycarp told him this fire of his lasted but a little, while the fire prepared for the wicked lasted forever. At the stake he thanked God aloud for letting him drink of Christ's chalice. The fire was lighted, but it did him no hurt; so he was stabbed to the heart, and his dead body was burnt. "Then," say the writers of his acts, "we took up the bones, more precious than the richest jewels or gold, and deposited them in a fitting place, at which may God grant us to assemble with joy to celebrate the birthday of the martyr to his life in heaven!"

Reflection.--If we love Jesus Christ, we shall love the Church and hate heresy, which rends His mystical body, and destroys the souls for which He died. Like St. Polycarp, we shall maintain our constancy in the faith by love of Jesus Christ, Who is its author and its finisher.

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January 25th,
Conversion of St. Paul and Commemoration of St. Peter

The Conversion of St. Paul Epistle and Gospel for the Feast of the Conversion of St. Paul Newly Added
Powerful Novena to St. Paul: Jan. 17th - Jan. 25th Litany of Faith and the Necessity of the Catholic Faith for Salvation The Steps to a Sinners Conversion True Conversion: One of the best sermons for hardened sinners The Necessity of Prayer for Sinners Death-Bed Repentance They that Live in Sin Prayer: its Conditions and Circumstances Ss. Peter and Paul St. Peter The Church is Catholic The Lives of the 12 Apostles and St. Paul: The Apostles Creed The Labor of the Apostles:
Their Teaching of the Nations

The Little Office of the Blessed Virgin Mary, from Vespers on Christmas Eve to the Purification Vol. 1, Part 2: The Ministry of Jesus Christ from the Latin Vulgate, as Illustrated by Catholic Artist and Historian, James Tissot, 1899 Meditations on the Holy Infancy Novena to St. Francis De Sales: Jan. 21st - Jan. 29th St. John Bosco's Novena to Our Lady Help of Christians: Jan. 23rd - Jan. 31st Novena to St. Ignatius of Loyola: Jan. 24th - Feb. 1st Novena of the Purification: Jan. 25th - Feb. 2nd

O God, Who hast taught the whole world by the preaching of blessed Paul the Apostle: mercifully grant, that we who this day keep the memory of his Conversion, may, by following his example, advance in the way that leads unto Thee. Through our Lord Jesus Christ, Thy Son, Who liveth and reigneth with Thee in the unity of the Holy Ghost, one God, world without end. Amen.

(Roman Breviary)

The great apostle Paul, named Saul at his circumcision, was born at Tarsus, the capital of Silicia, and was by privilege a Roman citizen, to which quality a great distinction and several exemptions were granted by the laws of the empire. He was early instructed in the strict observance of the Mosaic law, and lived up to it in the most scrupulous manner. In his zeal for the Jewish law, which he thought the cause of God, he became a violent persecutor of the Christians.

He was one of those who combined to murder St. Stephen, and in the violent persecution of the faithful which followed the martyrdom of the holy deacon, Saul signalized himself above others. By virtue of the power he had received from the high priest, he dragged the Christians out of their houses, loaded them with chains, and thrust them into prison. In the fury of his zeal he applied for a commission to take up all Jews at Damascus who confessed Jesus Christ, and bring them bound to Jerusalem, that they might serve as examples for the others. But God was pleased to show forth in him His patience and mercy.

While on his way to Damascus, he and his party were surrounded by a light from heaven, brighter than the sun, and suddenly struck to the ground. And then a voice was heard saying, " Saul, Saul, why dost thou persecute Me?" And Saul answered, " Who art Thou, Lord?" and the voice replied, "I am Jesus, Whom thou dost persecute." This mild expostulation of Our Redeemer, accompanied with a powerful interior grace, cured Saul's pride, assuaged his rage, and wrought at once a total change in him. Wherefore, trembling and astonished, he cried out, "Lord, what wilt Thou have me to do?" Our Lord ordered him to arise and to proceed on his way to the city, where he should be informed of what was expected from him.

Saul, arising from the ground, found that, though his eyes were open, he saw nothing. He was led by hand into Damascus, where he was lodged in the house of a Jew named Judas. To this house came by divine appointment a holy man named Ananias, who, laying his hands on Saul, said, "Brother Saul, the Lord Jesus, Who appeared to thee on thy journey, hath sent me that thou mayest receive thy sight and be filled with the Holy Ghost." Immediately something like scales fell from Saul's eyes, and he recovered his sight. Then he arose and was baptized; he stayed some few days with the disciples at Damascus, and began immediately to preach in the synagogues that Jesus was the Son of God. Thus a blasphemer and a persecutor was made an apostle, and chosen as one of God's principal instruments in the conversion of the world.

Reflection.--Listen to the words of the "Imitation of Christ," and let them sink into your heart: "He who would keep the grace of God, let him be grateful for grace when it is given, and patient when it is taken away. Let him pray that it may be given back to him, and be careful and humble, lest he lose it."

(Butler's Lives of Saints)

Hymn: Egregie Doctor, Paule

O great Apostle Paul, may thy deep wisdom teach Our earth-bound souls to strive with thee the skies to reach; Till that which perfect is shall shine with fuller glow, and that be done away, which here in part we know.

All honor, might, and power, and hymns of joy we bring, While to the Trinity eternal praise we sing; He rules the universe in wondrous unity, And shall, throughout the days of all eternity. Amen

(Roman Breviary)

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