Four Marian Dogmas in the Catholic Church

Marian Dogmas in the Catholic Church

Introduction

According to "The New Concise Catholic Dictionary" by Reynolds R. Ekstrom, the term dogma is defined as "an infallible and solemnly recognized doctrine of the universal Catholic community". The term dogma was originally derived from the Greek language from a Greek word meaning "that which one thinks to be true". During the apostolic period, the term was used to distinguish Christian belief from non-Christian belief. At the time of the Middle Ages, especially among the "scholastics", the term was not used anymore. One of the "scholastics" - specifically from the "high scholasticism" school of theology - St. Thomas Aquinas was said to have preferred the use of the term "article of faith" to refer to any dogmatic reality. Today, in contemporary age, the term dogma is often interchangeably used with the word doctrine. Those specializing in theology say there is really a difference between dogma and doctrine and that the terms must be used carefully in formal presentations: either verbal or written. According to these scholars the difference is: dogmas relate the truth of God's revelation, while doctrines teach how a particular dogma may be understood [The New Dictionary of Theology, by editors Komonchak, Collins and Lane].

Marian dogmas

The truth about the person of Mary is given through the dogmas of: 1 her divine motherhood (Theotokos), 2 her perpetual virginity, 3 her Immaculate conception, and 4 her assumption. These revealed truths on Mary celebrate the dignity of her "giving birth to her Creator" and all the implications that accompany this special honor. The abovementioned dogmas will be treated and defined individually in the following paragraphs.

The Motherhood of God, "Theotokos"

This was the first Marian dogma. It proclaims Mary as truly the Mother of God the Son made man. This truth was officially declared in the early ecumenical council of Ephesus in 431 A.D. That council declared and proclaimed thus: "the Holy Virgin is the Mother of God since according to the flesh she brought forth the Word of God made flesh". This truth on the Motherhood of Mary is celebrated by all Catholics all over the world in the Eucharistic liturgy of the Church every 1st of January.

The Perpetual Virginity of Mary

Several centuries later after the declaration of "Theotokos" in the Council of Ephesus, the Church then defined the dogma of Mary's perpetual virginity. It was at the Lateran Council in 649 A.D. which declared that: "She [Mary] conceived without seed, of the Holy Spirit...and without injury brought him [Jesus] forth...and after birth preserved her virginity inviolate".

The Immaculate Conception

It was only a thousand years later when the Church declared the dogma of the Immaculate Conception. This dogma reveals the truth that: "The Most Holy Virgin Mary was, in the first moment of her conception, by a unique gift of grace and privilege of Almighty God, in view of the merits of Jesus Christ, the Redeemer of mankind, preserved free from all stain of original sin". This declaration was made during the pontificate of Pope Pius IX, in the document "Ineffabilis Deus", 1854 A.D. This dogma confirms centuries of Catholic belief that Mary who was greeted by the angel Gabriel as "full of grace" (Luke 1:28), really entered into salvation history and human civilization as without stain of original sin.

The Assumption of Mary

Just a few decades after the declaration of the dogma of the Immaculate Conception, the dogma of the Assumption of Mary was also defined by the Church. According to the document of Pope Pius XII, "Munificentissimus Deus" (1950 A.D.), "Mary, the immaculate perpetually Virgin Mother of God, after the completion of her earthly life, was assumed body and soul into the glory of Heaven". This dogma is related to the truth that since the victory of Christ won over the effects of sin, like death and corruption, Mary intimately shared in the privilege of not suffering death and corruption that came from the Evil One and his seed.

Conclusion

Although these dogmas of the Blessed Mother of God reveal to us the great privilege and gift of grace Mary has received from God by virtue of her great humility and obedience to His will, we are also called to rightfully place her role as that of pointing to the central figure of Christ her Son. The centrality of Christ and the bible was foremost in the most recent ecumenical council of the Catholic Church, Vatican II. This downplayed devotion to Mary [and the saints]. However, though Marian devotion has decreased after that, popular piety and the cult of prayer to Mary has recovered strength on its own. A good and concrete sign of this revival is the increasing numbers of pilgrims every year in the great Marian shrines such as in: Aparecida, Guadalupe, Lourdes, Fatima, and Czestochowa.

Saint Joan of Arc and the Passion of the Saints

Video CD Review

A video CD review of "Passion of the Saints", produced by Discovery Channel

"Passion of the Saints" is a beautiful portrayal of the exemplary lives lived by the Christian martyrs - holy men and women who gave their very selves as a sacrificial offering that the Catholic Church may be strengthened by their witness of the saving love of Christ Jesus. St. Joan of Arc, whose feast is celebrated every May 30, is featured in this Video CD.

Introduction

It is widely known in Catholic scholarly circles that the blood of the martyrs is the seed that gives life to the universal Church and each one's personal faith and devotion. The witness of the martyrs is powerful because they followed Christ fully - in life and in the likeness of His death - a giving of one's life to encourage all the faithful in the Church and to strengthen them to continue following Christ.

The Greek word for martyrdom is martirium. In the early Christian centuries, martyrdom came to be known as the martyrdom one understand it to be: giving of one's life for Christ. It began to incorporate a second meaning only when the spirituality of religious life came into being. Martyrdom in the first sense, that of shedding one's blood for Christ, came to be known as "red" martyrdom. And martyrdom in the latter sense, that of being religious (those who lived as monks and nuns in enclosed and cloistered monasteries), is called "white" martyrdom - a fleeing from what is unredeemed and sinful in the cities of the world.

Passion of the Saints is Video CD about martyrs who shed their blood for Christ

This video CD features martyrs who are both known and popular in the Catholic faith. Featured are Saints Stephen (whose martyrdom is presented in the Acts of the Apostles), Perpetua and Felicity, Polycarp, Thomas a Beckett, Joan of Arc, Appolonia, Sebastian, and many more. The presentation of the lives and deaths of the martyrs is produced in documentary style: where the speakers are professors who teach about the phenonomenon of martyrs. They share their opinions and wisdom in their study of the martyrs presented in the Video.

A world of heroism and nobility of Christian life

The video CD is informative and highly documented. It includes scenes from various modern films made on the martyr saints. It includes scenes from a film on Saint Maximillian Kolbe and Saint Joan of Arc. It also includes scenes made from the movie on the martyrdom of Saint Thomas a Beckett. Produced by Discovery Channel, the Video introduces the viewers to enter a world of Christian heroism and nobility of life purpose. Their heroism and nobility of life purpose is strongly rooted in their conviction that Christ is their true saviour and that their life and death are meant for the greater good of the Church.

What Happened to the Apostles after Pentecost? (Part Two)

St. Andrew

Andrew is the brother of Peter, and their father John was a fisherman. After Pentecost, St. Andrew is said to have preached in Scythia and Greece, in what is now modern Turkey. One story-tradition reports him going to Byzantium, where he appointed Stachys as bishop. He was then martyred at Patras, in Greece, on an X-shaped cross. The body of St. Andrew was brought to the Church of the Apostles - built by Constantine the Great. In 1270 A.D., his relics were deposited in the Cathedral of Amalfi in Italy. St. Andrew was made the patron of Scotland and Russia. This title was based on traditions which say that his relics where brought by St. Rule to Scotland in the fourth century A.D. There is also one other story-tradition that says he preached in Russia as far as Kiev.

St. Thomas

An ancient story says that after Pentecost, St. Thomas was captured and sold as a slave to Gundafor, king of India. After learning that Thomas had a mastery of architecture, King Gundafor ordered Thomas to build a magnificent palace. In the king's absence, St. Thomas distributed to the poor all the money he had received for the palace construction project. Upon the return of Gundafor, he learned what happened, and was about to flay St. Thomas alive, when Gundafor's brother reported that he had seen in a vision the palace that St. Thomas had prepared for him in heaven. The king liberated Thomas and was baptized together with many of his people. So, St. Thomas went all over India evangelizing many people. However, he got into trouble with King Mazday for Christianizing his wife. Eventually, he was led to the top of a hill, was martyred, and then buried at Mylapore near Madras. St. Thomas was declared as the apostle of India by Pope Paul VI in 1972 A.D. St. Thomas is also the patron of builders, architects, surveyors, the blind, Pakistan, and the East Indies.

St. James the Less (or the Younger)

This James was the son of Alphaeus (Mark 3:18) and a first cousin of Jesus (Matthew 13:55). After Pentecost, St. James became the bishop of Jerusalem. James was also part of that first council of the Church where a decision was made that Gentiles who became Christians need not follow Jewish laws. He is also the author of the epistle in the New Testament that bears his name. How he was martyred is told differently by story-traditions. One tradition says that he was thrown down from the pinnacle of the Temple by the Pharisees, and then stoned to death. Another tradition says that as he was being stoned, St. James knelt down and prayed for his persecutors. One of the chief priests tried to defend St. James because of his prayer, but another one took a heavy stick or club and struck St. James on the head, killing him instantly. His death is commonly accepted to be in 62 A.D. St. James is also the patron of druggists, hatmakers, and fullers.

To be continued.

Memorial of Saints (May 29)

St. Cyril of Caesarea became a Christian as a boy. Since his father was pagan, he was disowned by his father and put out of the house. He was then brought to the governor, who offered him pardon if he would renounce his Christian faith and sacrifice to the pagan gods. Cyril naturally refused to renounce his faith and stood steadfast in his belief in Christ. St. Cyril was beheaded and died a martyr for Christ (died ca. 251 A.D.).

St. Maximinus of Trier had a good education under the administration of bishop Agritius. Upon the death of Agritius, Maximinus succeeded to the episcopate in 333 A.D. He staunchly opposed the Arian heresy - supporting St. Athanasius, the leading figure against Arianism. St. Maximinus also gave refuge to Paul of Constantinople and others who were victims of the Arians. He convened the Synod of Cologne which also opposed the Arian heresy. Both St. Jerome and St. Athanasius regarded St. Maximinus of Trier as one of the most courageous bishops of his time (died ca. 347 A.D.).

Sts. Sisinnius, Martyrius and Alexander were three brothers coming from Cappadocia, who all migrated to Milan, Italy. Sisinnius was ordained a deacon, while Martirius was conferred the lectorate, both by Bishop Vigilius. The three brothers were sent to the Tyrol as missionaries. Because of the success of the three in their work of converting the pagans, they were attacked. Sisinnius was beaten to death, Martyrius was dragged to his death, and Alexander was burned to death. All three died as martyrs for Christ within the span of just several days (died ca. 397 A.D.).

St. Theodosia of Constantinople was a nun at the monastery of St. Anastasia. She led a group of nuns in resisting a band of soldiers who were ordered to enforce the iconoclastic orders of Emperor Leo III. The soldiers came to destroy the image of Christ over the monastery's main entrance. Because of their resistance, Theodosia was imprisoned and tortured to death - together with twelve other women (died ca. 745 A.D.).

Sts. William Arnaud, Stephen of Narbonne, and Raymond were martyrs along with others. They came to be known as the Martyrs of Toulouse. These three were commissioned by the Pope to combat Albigensianism. William and his companions were given shelter for a night by Count Raymond VII of Toulouse. Some men, probably allied with the Albigensians, entered the castle and killed William, Stephen, Raymond and their companions. Miracles were reported to have happened at their graves (died ca. 1242 A.D.).

Blessed Richard Thirkeld was educated in Oxford before he entered the priesthood at a very late age. As a priest, he performed his duties around the York area in England. When the authorities learned that he was a priest and that he was seen to be visiting a prisoner at night-time, he was arrested and was condemned to die. His execution was kept private as he was greatly venerated by the people (died ca. 1583 A.D.).

Solemnity of the Most Holy Trinity (B)

(Edited) Reflections (from) Solemnity of the Most Holy Trinity Sunday (B), June 3, 2012

Liturgical readings

Deuteronomy 4:32-34, 39-40
Psalm 33
Romans 8:14-17
Matthew 28:16-20

"In the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit."

The last passage of Matthew's gospel, Mt 28:16-20 is one of the most studied passages in the gospels. The reason? It is a key passage that contains many key themes. And one important theme of this last passage of Matthew is Christ's authority to commission His followers for a universal mission: to bring into one fold all the children of God "in the name of the Holy Trinity". Although the term "Trinity" is not found in the gospel of Matthew, and not found in the other three gospels as well, mention of the three Divine Persons is found in some gospel passages. One instance of the mention of the three Divine Persons is in the story of Christ's baptism in Mt 3:13-17. The "Trinity" is a dogma in the Catholic Church. It is a truth based on Scripture. Even if that truth of the Trinity is not explicitly and literally spelled out in the Bible as the word Trinity, it is still the truth. Other Christian denominations may not agree with this, but we are called to respect their theology as well.

The dogma on the Holy Trinity is proclaimed to assert the truth that the "Holy Trinity" is an important article of faith in the Catholic Church. The presence of the three Divine Persons of God is found in the New Testament. Modern theologians of the Catholic Church, especially those who have spearheaded Vatican II theology, would refer to this as "second reflection". That is how their specialized studies point to the truth of the Trinity. For the universal faithful, simply assenting to the truth presented by the Church is an act of faith taken as one's personal belief and in community. This is true especially in the celebration of the Mass, the other sacraments, and in paraliturgical services. All prayer in the Church begins with an invocation to the Trinity. The Eucharist opens the sign of the Cross, and ends with the sign of the Cross after the blessing of the priest-presider or bishop. Many great teachers of the faith, like the doctors of the Church, encourage all to honor the Trinity and to make a simple act of faith in prayer: acknowledging that there is "one God in three divine Persons, Father, Son and Holy Spirit" who guides and provides for all.

This dogma on the Holy Trinity is not only basic to the Catholic faith but essential to the history of the world's salvation. This was made clear to all in the universal Church when Blessed John Paul II ushered in the new millenium in honor of the Trinity. He dedicated the three years before the beginning of the new millenium to the three Divine Persons: 1997 to Jesus, 1998 to the Holy Spirit, and 1999 to the Father. It has been a great privilege for many of us to see and celebrate this event in the turn of the millenium. Not all have been privileged to be alive when the Holy Father opened the millenium in honor of the Holy Trinity. We are fortunate and blessed indeed. And it is our religious duty to thank God in the Eucharist always for revealing Himself as a community of Persons, and how in His Divine Mercy, He continues to be with us "always, until the end of the world."

What Happened to the Apostles after Pentecost? (Part One)

Introduction

Before the descent of the Holy Spirit upon the Blessed Virgin Mary and all the apostles and disciples, Acts 1:15-26 says that there were about one hundred twenty of them gathered together. Peter, the leader of Christ's inner circle of Twelve, made it known to the whole community, that another should take the place of Judas Iscariot - the one who betrayed Christ and killed himself after despairing and losing hope of being forgiven. So that the Eleven may be restored to the original number of Twelve (note: twelve symbolizing the twelve tribes of Israel), they drew lots, and the choice fell on Matthias. Matthias thus became part of the apostles and was added to the Eleven.

When the day of Pentecost came, the Holy Spirit gave the apostles and the whole community of disciples, the power and the strength, to witness to Christ not only to the Jews, but also to the rest of the world. This blog post will tell that story (based mostly on holy tradition) of where the apostles preached and met a martyr's death (except for one - John).

St. Peter

Peter was the first of the apostles to preach to the Gentiles. He converted many to the Way of Jesus with his preaching. Because of the success of his evangelization, he was imprisoned by Herod Aggripa in 43 A.D. An angel of the Lord helped him escape prison. Tradition then say that he went to Rome, where he became Rome's first "bishop". From here, he ended up being crucified upside down (because Peter felt himself unworthy to be crucified in the manner of his Master) at the foot of Vatican Hill, during the Christian persecution wrought in the reign of Emperor Nero in about 64 A.D. Excavations under St. Peter's Basilica have unearthed what is believed to be his tomb.

St. James the Great

St. James was the first among the apostles to die as a martyr, around the year 42 A.D. He was beheaded in Jerusalem by Herod Agrippa I (Acts 12:1-2). Many stories report that he first preached at Spain before his martyrdom. His remains were then transferred from Jerusalem to the Church of Santiago de Compostela in Spain. Though there are no historical records to attest to this truth, the Church in Compostela, Spain, became one of the great pilgrimage centers of the Middle Ages. St. James has therefore become the patron saint of Spain, as well as the patron saint of labourers, pilgrims, and those suffering from rheumatism.

St. John the Evangelist

John was the brother of James the Great. Both were sons of Zebedee and referred to by Jesus as "sons of thunder" because of their volatile temperament. Traditional stories recount that John went to Rome during the reign of Emperor Domitian. He was said to have miraculously escaped martyrdom by emerging from a cauldron of boiling oil unscathed. He then went to Ephesus, where he was said to have witnessed the assumption into heaven of the Blessed Virgin Mary. From Ephesus, John was then exiled to the island of Patmos, where he wrote the book of Revelation. When Domitian died in 96 A.D., John returned to Ephesus and wrote the fourth gospel, plus the three New Testament epistles bearing his name. He died in Ephesus - the only one of the apostles who did not suffer the pains of martyrdom.

To be continued.

Jesus in History and in Faith

Jesus in History and in Faith

We can know Jesus through the time-bound culture of His time, and through the witness of many saints along the historical continuum of the Catholic church's multifaceted spirituality.

Introduction

Before Catholicism and Protestantism, and before all organized and institutionalized Christian religions came into existence, Christianity began in the person of Jesus and a band of disciples who followed Him closely. Though Jesus and all existing written material on Him are varied - some in agreement with each other, while others with conflicting views - the canonical sources on His life and mission are in the four gospels written by the evangelists Mark, Matthew, Luke and John. These scripture accounts are then secondly supported by many socio-historical information that provide additional background to the person, life and mission of Jesus of Nazareth. Scholars in the Roman Catholic Church are privileged to have all these sources in order, and are able to know Jesus not only through the Word proclaimed in the Eucharist, but also through the many theories proposed by those who undertook specialized and accurate studies surrounding the cultural (Jewish religion) and historical (1st century A.D.) contexts in which Jesus lived.

The four gospels

A majority of those who study the Scriptures attest to the truth that the four gospel accounts on Jesus are not totally the entire account of the life of Jesus of Nazareth. Their studies reveal that these gospel accounts are many levels of meaning apart from the person of Jesus Himself. These levels of meaning comprise the lived experience of Christian communities who practiced the teachings of Jesus and who transcribed in written form the many accounts and stories of Him. Some of those who gathered these accounts and stories were eyewitnesses of Jesus Himself; many others were disciples and followers of those eyewitnesses. It was only in about the year 70 A.D. that more substantial accounts were gathered and edited to be used in the life of the Christian communities. Starting with the evangelist Mark (feast April 25), then Matthew and Luke, and then John, these gospel accounts were written down in a form that has gone through many editions and translations - painting many dimensions on the person of Jesus not only for Roman Catholics but for all Christians as well.

Historical situation in Jesus' time

The region where Jesus lived and preached was Palestine. In 63 B.C., years before Jesus was born, Palestine was under the Romans. Herod at this time was the king of the Jewish people. It was in Herod's reign that Jesus was born. By modern calculation, that may be around 4 B.C. King Herod died and his kingdom was eventually divided among three sons: Herod Archelaus, Herod Antipas, and Herod Philip. Herod Archelaus could not quell the restlessness of his people. So, Rome deposed Archelaus and placed a Roman procurator in his stead. Jesus was about 12 years old at that time. This was the beginning of direct Roman rule - a turbulent epoch that almost led to the destruction of the temple, the city of Jerusalem and the Jewish nation in 70 A.D. It did not last long and the complete destruction of the temple, the city and the nation eventually happened in 135 A.D. This event affected the first communities of Christian who followed and were influenced by the teaching of Jesus of Nazareth.

Non Christian sources of Jesus' life

Even though there was destruction around that time, other non-Christian sources survived the destructive trend and recorded the life of Jesus. There is much evidence of Jesus in the recorded writings of Tacitus in 117 A.D. (Annales XV, 47); Pliny the Younger in 112/113 A.D. (letter to Emperor Trajan); and Suetonius in 120 A.D. (Vita Claudii, ch 25). The Jewish writer Josephus Flavius in 93/94 A.D. also made statements about Jesus in Antiquitates XVIII,5,2 and XX,9,1. These historical records on Jesus are not Christian accounts. This all the more help to understand that Jesus was also known to have lived by the non-Christian writers of that time.

The Shroud of Turin

Fast-forwarding now to modern times, we are given the evidence of the Shroud of Turin. This shroud was discovered in Europe and is popularly thought to be the genuine burial shroud of Jesus. The relic has an incredible imprint of a body of a bearded man who upon scientific investigation of the image show that he has been beaten, crowned with thorns, and pierced with nails through the wrists and feet. Radio carbon dating has been done on the relic, and the results show that the cloth of the shroud may have been produced during the Middle Ages. Also, the burnt marks on the sides of the imprinted body are said to be caused by a fire that may have occured in a monastery that preserved the shroud also during the Middle Ages. This scientific discovery caused quite a stir among those who already believed in its authenticity as the burial shroud of Jesus. Whether the man in the Shroud of Turin is really Jesus or not remains a mystery to this day. Devotees of the Shroud believe that the imprint, which is clearly unexplainable, may have resulted from the great light that transpired when Jesus was resurrected. A lot of specialized studies are still needed to mark the authenticity of this proof of the existence of Jesus.

The only person pre-announced

The gospel accounts give us many aspects of Jesus and His life. Historical records also tell of a man who lived in Palestine, preached and was crucified under Roman rule. The relic of the Shroud of Turin, though still unsubstantiated as authentic, can lead to see that a man indeed lived, underwent a cruel beating, and was nailed on the wrists and feet. But there are other sources besides all these. In the history of world religions, only the person of Jesus was pre-announced. World religions in history are full of men who claim that they came from God: Buddha, Mohammed, Confucius, Lao-tze, and many others. There were no predictions of birth about these men, but there were many predictions on the birth of Christ. These predictions are first seen especially in the Old Testament - particularly in relation to the account of the virgin birth of the Messiah. And in the New Testament we find Wise Men from the East in search of the birth of a King. From this historical points of view alone, the uniqueness of Jesus sets Him truly apart from all other founders of world religions because His birth is the only one that was pre-announced.

The faith of the martyrs

Our capacity to know who Jesus is, is both by reason (from historically written records or artifacts) and by faith (from the witness of Christians in the history of the growth of Christianity). Socio-historical evidences on the life of Jesus, help to understand by reason, that Jesus indeed lived during that time when Israel was ruled by Rome in 1st century Palestine. He was the fulfillment of the awaited Jewish Messiah prophesied in scripture and in many Eastern literature. However, the Jews at the time did not conceive of a Messiah in the likeness of Jesus. They awaited a political Messiah who would deliver them from bondage from a foreign power. Since Jesus did not fulfill their conceptions and perceptions of a Messiah, He was rejected by His own people. But despite all rejection, and despite being executed to death on the cross, Jesus was brought to life again by the power of God the Holy Spirit. The following events after the Resurrection slowly led to the Pentecost experience that transformed the followers of Jesus into courageous witnesses of God's kingdom. Their witnessing also led to their sacrificial death. And this is what is really remarkable about Jesus and the Christian faith: starting from the martyrs [Stephen, Peter and the apostles] as recounted by Scripture, history is dotted and studded with heroic and noble stories of martyrs who gave up their life out of faith in the person of Jesus. The long historical records of many Christian martyrs death truly are convincing evidence that Jesus of Nazareth lived in our human history and made Himself known to many through faith. Why would a small band of apostles go to the extent of preaching about Jesus in different lands and then sacrificing their lives if indeed they believe that Jesus died and rose again for all?

Related resources:

• "Life of Christ", by Fulton Sheen
• "Shroud", by Robert K. Wilcox
• "A History of the Church", by August Franzen and John P. Dolan
• "Jesus Before Christianity", by Albert Nolan

Memorial of Saints (May 22)

Blessed Maria Domenica got married, but she experienced the tragic loss of her husband and son Lorenzo. As a widow, she consecrated herself to works of charity for the poor and the sick. Soon, with six others, she founded the Pious Union of Charity. In 1829 A.D., she also founded a congregation which was to be popularly known as the Camillian Sisters - all dedicated to assist the sick and the poor (died ca. 1868 A.D.).

St. Rita of Cascia lived through four states of life in her lifetime: as a virgin, a married woman and mother, a widow, and an Augustinian nun. She is the patron saint of desperate causes, like St. Jude Thaddaeus. After an unhappy marriage and the death of her husband and two sons, she entered the Augustinian convent in ca. 1407 A.D. at Cascia, Italy. It is popularly known that a wound appeared on her forehead because she meditated intensely on the Passion of Christ. Given the miserable marriage she endured, she became a role model and inspiration for others in desperate marital situations (died ca. 1457 A.D.).

St. Joachima of Vedruna was also known as Joaquina de Mas de Vedruna. She founded a religious community in Spain after her husband died and she finished all her obligations in raising up her children. The religious community follows the Carmelite spirituality and came to be known as the Carmelites of Charity (died ca. 1854 A.D.).

Sts. Aemilius and Castus were African Christians. When they were arrested during the persecution of Christians under the reign of Emperor Decius, they were ordered to be tortured. Under torture, the two recanted. But after they recanted, they retracted from their recantation. So they were both burned to death as martyrs for Christ (died ca. 250 A.D.).

St. Quiteria was the daughter of a Galician prince. When her father wanted her to get married and give up her Christian faith, she fled to escape this situation. St. Quiteria's father had her tracked down through his followers. When they found her in Aire, Gascony, she was beheaded on orders from her own father (died 5th century).

St. Romanus was a monk at Monte Subiaco monastery. He was the one who brought food to St. Benedict while the latter lived as a hermit for three years in a cave. When the Vandals invaded Italy, St. Romanus went to France. It was in France where he founded the Abbey of Fontrouge near Auxerre. He spent the last years of his life in this Abbey (died ca. 550 A.D.).

St. Julia is the patron saint of Corsica. According to Catholic tradition, she was a North African of noble heritage, but was sold as a slave to a Syrian merchant when Carthage was invaded in 439 A.D. On the voyage by ship to Corsica, she did not want to debark when the ship came to shore, because her master wanted her to participate in a pagan ritual ceremony. Learning then of her Christian faith, she was tortured and then crucified (died 5th century A.D.).

St. Aigulf became a hermit at Bourges, France, after the death of his parents. Because of his reputation for sanctity, he was chosen to become bishop of Bourges in 811 A.D. He attended the Council of Toulouse in 829 A.D. When three bishops joined in a revolt of Louis the Debonaire's sons against their father, St. Aigulf was chosen to decide the fate of these three bishops (died ca. 1130 A.D.).

St. Humility is really named Rosana and was married to an Italian nobleman. Her husband got sick and almost died. After this incident in their life, both she and her husband decided to enter the double monastery near Faenza. It was here that Rosana took the religious name Humility. St. Humility lived as a recluse for twelve years before the abbot general of the Vallombrosans suggested that she found an abbey. Humility obeyed and the first Vallambrosan convent for nuns was founded near Faenza. A second house was founded at Florence, Italy. This was where she spent her last years (died ca. 1310 A.D.).

Pentecost Sunday (B)

(Edited) Reflections (from) Pentecost Sunday (B), June 4, 2006

"As the Father has sent me, so I send you."

After the 50 days of Easter, the Church celebrates her birth at Pentecost. It was at Pentecost that the apostles and disciples of Jesus - the seed of the Church - received the Holy Spirit after praying as one in the Upper Room. It was for fear of the Jews that they gathered together and prayed in that Upper Room. They stayed and prayed together with Mary after the Resurrection and the Ascension of Jesus. And they locked all the doors. They prayed continually as they remember the promise of Jesus to them - a promise of a Paraclete - another Advocate to encourage and strengthen them in faith. It was this promise that kept them together in prayerful anticipation of the coming of the Paraclete, who will teach them all they need to know and understand about the teachings of Jesus. So when that time arrived and the Holy Spirit descended upon them, the fear that prevented them to go out into the streets melted, and a strong faith and courage from above was born inside them. It encouraged them to preach what they themselves had received from above. Their prayer in community was then transformed into a strong driving force capable of preaching, teaching and healing in the power of Jesus' name.

Jesus was sent by the Father to preach His Kingdom, teach wisdom, and shepherd all His people into one flock and sheepfold - that all may be saved from sin and receive eternal life in Him. After His earthly ministry was completed, He sends the Holy Spirit to His apostles. And it is this Holy Spirit that everyone in the Church - clergy, religious and lay faithful - are also sent by the Church to the whole world, to preach and teach the Good News, and shepherd the people into one, holy, catholic and apostolic Church.

The presence of the Spirit in the lives of all the faithful makes everyone strong and persevering in faith, hope and love. It is this faith, hope and love that empowers each baptized believer to overcome all difficulties in doing what is good and right. Witnessing as a community in a world that needs to know the meaning of life amidst uncertainty and darkness is a vocation given to all - clergy, religious and lay. This power to witness begins at baptism and is received in fullness during one's confirmation. The witness is much stronger if the baptized gather as a community - such as in the celebration of the Eucharist - and exemplify to the world that Christ and His gospel are meant to breathe life into all.

This Pentecost, we are called to give thanks for all the blessings God has given each one. It is a time to also thank God for the gift of missionaries the Church has sent to all nations in the world. These missionaries are in the very frontline of evangelization - risking their lives for Christ, but by the power of God's Spirit results in a fruitfulness and growth that sustains the Catholic Church. It is a time to thank God most especially for the witness of those who evangelize in places that are hostile to the gospel. God the Holy Spirit continues to give fortitude, wisdom, strength and holiness to the Church's missionaries, that they may bring the gospel of peace to all the corners of the world.

Three Good Catholic Books: Our Lady of Fatima, St. Francis of Assisi, & St. Thomas of Aquinas

The feast of Our Lady of Fatima is on May 13. This blog post will feature a book on Our Lady of Fatima together with two other books of two popular saints, St. Francis of Assisi and St. Thomas of Aquinas. Although devotion to Mary and the saints are not based in Scriptures, these liturgical practices are authentic. They are based and deeply rooted in a tradition of prayers and authentic cults exercised by Chrisitian communities since the time of the apostles after Pentecost. They kept the flame of love of God alive in this cult of prayers - meditating on the holiness of Mary and the heroic virtues of the saints. These early Christian communities believe that seeking the intercession of Mary and the saints will have their petitions brought before God easily and answered swiftly.

Three good Catholic books

Many people have found solace, encouragement, and meaning from life's ups and downs reading many kinds of books. But the best books to read are Catholic books: like simple biographies and stories that inspire and encourage all to do the greater good. These are written often in simple terminologies. The stories of saints, who are as human as anyone of us but have become victorious over their sinful nature in life and in work can surely uplift any heart and soul who reads their biographies. Anyone can easily relate with their stories of brokenness, pain, and their struggles in life. Their preserved stories encourages the faithful to continue to seek Christ and to be inspired to ease the pain and brokenness of others as well.

Three Catholic books suggested in this post are:

• Our Lady of Fatima by William Thomas Walsh
• Saint Thomas Aquinas: "The Dumb Ox" by G. K. Chesterton
• St. Francis of Assisi by Johannes Jörgensen

The Miracle of the Sun at Fatima

The Catholic faith is popularly known for the many accounts of miracles connected with the apparitions of the Blessed Virgin Mary in different parts of the world. Not all apparitions are authentic. However, those apparitions which call the people to repent and to permanently convert from sinful ways and habits, are usually the ones which the Church studies, and makes officially known as authentic. An example of an authentic apparition is the one at Fatima, Portugal. It is here that the Blessed Virgin Mary appeared to three children with a message for the world to repent and be converted back to God. So that the world may believe that the message truly comes from God, a miracle occured in October 13, 1917. When 70,000 people were gathered at Fatima on that day, it rained first and then "the sun whirled like a gigantic "fire-wheel", causing the rain-soaked clothes of the people to become miraculously dry. Many people's lives were affected by that miracle. It began their road to conversion to a life with genuine faith in God. The miracle performed was a sign to the world that God indeed cares for all; He is a Father who holds the world and His children's lives in His hands. It also prepared the world to an incoming evil: a prediction of the Second World War. The messages of the apparition and the story of this miracle is well presented in the book "Our Lady of Fatima" by William Thomas Walsh.

Thomas the Dominican

Saint Thomas belonged to the Order of Preachers, known popularly as the Dominicans. In his student days, he was known by his fellow classmates to be slow, modest and retiring, thus gaining the title, "The Dumb Ox". Little did his classmates know that he would soon be the reference point for the philosophy of the Catholic faith. Up to now, his writings continue to be a classic reference point in the teaching magisterium of the Church. A biography written on him by G. K. Chesterton will inspire anyone who seeks the truth on the existence of God. It can create a great desire for a deeper understanding of the Catholic faith and its philosophy. The experience of knowing God as Truth can transform any person to become more than what he was before - to live as God's instrument for greater good of all in the responsibilities of his or her state of life.

The "Poverello"

Of all the saints recognized in the Catholic faith, the most popular and loved by all is St. Francis of Assisi. Up to modern times, especially when there is an important concern for the preservation of wildlife, the pursuit of balance in the world's ecological environments, and for the cause of world peace, the person of St. Francis looms before all in the world as a solution. His spirituality springs forth from his love of God as Creator: a God who loves the "Poverello" and who loves all that He created. St. Francis' influence is so strong that it encourages and inspires all people to have a positive outlook in life. This positive mindset springs most of all from the perspective of God's goodness and mercy. It is this mindset that is produced when one reads the biography written by Johannes Jörgensen. All those who read the book will certainly be inspired to seek peace and to be an instrument of peace: witnessing to all creation a life that seeks the good of all.

Catholic books are spiritual treasures

There is a lot of wisdom in life to be gained by reading Catholic books like the ones reviewed above. These three books, originally published by Image Books from 1954-1956 A.D., preserves those spiritual treasures. For Catholics who wish a deeper love for God and a better understanding of the Catholic faith, you can search for these books online.

Ascension Sunday (B)

(Edited) Reflections (from) Ascension Sunday (B), May 2009

First reading: Acts 1:1-11
Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 47
Second reading: Ephesians 4:17-24
Gospel reading: Mark 16:15-20

"Jesus was taken up into heaven and took His seat at God's right hand."

The account of the Lord's ascension in the gospel of Mark is very brief. It begins with Jesus appearing to His Eleven apostles and commanding them to undertake a global mission of evangelization and baptism. Jesus adds, that belief in the Good News will save all those who accept the Gospel, but refusal to believe in the Gospel will condemn the unbelievers. The signs by which those who believe, will know that they are faithful to the Gospel, are these: they will have the power to expel demons; to speak new languages; to handle serpents without them being harmed; to be unharmed also from poison; to heal the sick and bring them to recovery. After saying all these to His Eleven apostles, Jesus ascended into heaven and seated at the right of His Father. The work that the Lord did in His earthly ministry is commissioned to the Eleven, and the message they are to proclaim to all people will be accomplished through the spiritual power Jesus grants them to perform in His name.

The Kingdom of God is not a political power or state. It is a spiritual Kingdom with a force to compel humanity to journey with all creation to God. Therefore the power Jesus gives to His apostles is a strong spiritual power more than a temporal one. Thus, the mission entrusted to the Eleven is a mission empowered by this spiritual power. This mission is being accomplished: first, throughout the centuries through the early Christian communities; second, as the Church is doing so through her sacraments and apostolic works to all cultures; and third, as the Church will continue to do so with all the lay faithful in her global mission to all. It was during His Ascension that Christ expressed His mission more definitely to the apostles. These Eleven apostles will soon receive the full spiritual power of the Holy Spirit, when the Spirit descends upon them at Pentecost. Pentecost will lead them to all truth - a truth they must bring to all humanity. This truth is about Jesus, & the Kingdom Christ has established during His earthly mission. As Jesus now ascends into heaven, He promised to send the Holy Spirit, to be with all His followers not only for their time, but up to our present time and until the end of the world.

In this mystery of Christ's Ascension, we catch a glimpse of the glory of God. The Eleven witnessed this, and all the faithful now believe in this mystery by faith in the gospel and the traditions of the Church. When Jesus left His earthly ministry into the responsible hands of the Eleven apostles, these apostles in turn, share their mission and ministry to both the clergy in the hierarchical structure of the Church and to religious communities and lay people in the charismatic movements. The glory that the apostles witnessed in the ascension of Jesus, will be the glory that all the faithful will also share with Christ, if all the baptized accept each one's share of the responsibility and work on it towards completion. This responsibility is in the apostolic works and ministry of the Church - to build the Kingdom of God in the same manner that Jesus did in His earthly mission and ministry. Let us therefore thank the Father, give Him praise and honor forever, for gifting us with His Son Jesus, that we may share too in His life of glory - a life of grace that humanity had lost because of the sin of our first parents. With Jesus, there is always hope again for all of humanity. Hope in God and His Kingdom is the way.

6th Sunday of Easter (B)

(Edited) Reflections (from) 6th Sunday of Easter (B), May 11, 2009

First reading: Acts 10:25-26, 34-35, 44-48
Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 98
Second reading: 1 John 4:7-10
Gospel reading: John 15:9-17

"Live on in My love."

This passage from the gospel of John teaches about God's word, action and His expression of love in the life and action of Jesus. God's word of love is not only in Christ's discourse in this passage from John, but also in the many signs He had performed all throughout the gospel. In His discourse, Christ makes all aware that we are in union with God's love if we live in His love - a love He lives in His love of the Father. This love of Christ makes everyone's joy complete. The measure by which everyone is to increase the quality of this love, is in the measure Christ exemplified by His whole life and mission: a great love of the Father and the Kingdom which all His followers are to continue until the end of the age. This quality of love bore much fruit in the Resurrection of Christ and will continue to bear fruit, and will endure, if all the baptized and the faithful continue to obey the command of Jesus: to love one another under the standard of His love.

Returning to the discourse in John 5:9-17.
The gospel of John has a distinctive difference with the other gospels. Whereas the other three gospels can be seen and viewed through common themes (Matthew and Luke borrow passages from Mark), John's gospel is structured and themed differently, and the text comes from a different scriptural tradition. The discourses in the gospel of John are more lofty, while the synoptic gospels (Mark, Matthew, and Luke), ground their writing in the humanity and person of Jesus. What however, brings all these gospel traditions together, and unites them into a common theme, is Christ's commandment of love. Mark, Matthew and Luke has Jesus saying: "Love the Lord God with all your mind, with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your strength. Love your neighbor as your self". Each gospel's tradition may distinguish each one from the other, but the message of love in their passages all say the same refrain: we are to love God with our whole being, and to love our neighbor as our self.

The reality of love that every human being grows up with is still found in traditional institutions that continue today in modern living: in the family, in school, in work and professional life, with religious communities or lay organizations, with people in one's neighborhood or in the parish, and with other cultures encountered in travels around the world. The love expressed in these situations, and in the specific relationships it is immersed in, is not perfect. It can cause dissensions, conflicts, misunderstanding, envy or jealousy, abandonment or separation. But Jesus teaches now in the discourse that for love to bear fruit it must live on in God; it must be of God. It is a love, as St. Paul says in the letter to the Corinthians, that is pure, patient, not jealous or proud, not ill-mannered or selfish, not happy with evil, but is happy with the truth. And the truth God teaches us about love is this: to have Christ as the source and example by which everyone is to act in love and and in the holiness required of each one's state of life.

St. Athanasius of Alexandria, Feast May 2

St. Athanasius of Alexandria, Archbishop, Greek Father of the Church, Doctor of the Church: ca. 297-373 A.D.

Birth, education and diaconate

St. Athanasius was born of Christian parents at Alexandria, Egypt. He was well educated in Scripture and in theology. Ordained a deacon, he became secretary to Bishop Alexander in Alexandria in ca. 318 A.D.

Leadership in the Church

St. Athanasius was present at the Council of Nicaea, which condemned Arianism and excommunicated Arius. He was elected bishop of Alexandria upon Bishop Alexander's death in 327 A.D. St. Athanasius combined his duties as bishop with his responsibility of taking care of the of the desert hermits, and the people of Ethiopia. It was in the exercise of this responsibility and in his visits to the desert hermits that he came to know St. Anthony of the Desert - who became St. Athanasius' ally in the fight versus Arianism. It was his knowledge on the life of St. Anthony that St. Athanasius wrote a biography of St. Anthony the Abbot in his later years.

The struggle against Arianism

Arianism continued to spread despite its ongoing condemnation since the Council of Nicaea. The Arians were also joined in Egypt by the Meletians - another dissident group. St. Athanasius provided a strong voice against all of them by his orthodox stand on the truth. The Arians persuaded Emperor Constantine to call a council. At first, Constantine sided with St. Athanasius. However, Constantine reverted and agreed with the condemnation of St. Athanasius - sending him into exile in northern Gaul (in what is now Belgian territory).

Second exile

When Constantine died in 337 A.D., St. Athanasius returned to his see. However, an Arian bishop by the name of Eusebius, persuaded Pope Julius to reopen the charges against St. Athanasius. Eusebius succeeded in deposing St. Athanasius at a synod in Antioch. When a Cappadocian by the name of Gregory was then installed as archbishop supplanting St. Athanasius, riots broke out in Alexandria. Because of all this conflict, St. Athanasius was unable to return to Alexandria and remained in Rome.

Third exile

While in Rome, St. Athanasius worked to have his case heard by the pope. Pope Julius I therefore called a synod which vindicated St. Athanasius - a verdict later endorsed by the Council of Sardica. This victory in 346 A.D., helped St. Athanasius to live in peace for four years in Alexandria. This triumph was short-lived because Constans was murdered in 350 A.D. Constans' successor, Constantine, now set himself against St. Athanasius. He condemned St. Athanasius in the council of Arles in 353 A.D., and then again in Milan in 355 A.D. Meanwhile, in Alexandria, soldiers forced their way into the church and killed some of the congregation. St. Athanasius escaped and spent the next six years moving about among the monks in the desert (who all protected him). St. Athanasius remained hidden there for many years. And it was here among the desert hermits where he completed most of his major writings.

Fourth exile

A new emperor, Julian the Apostate, revoked all of his predecessor's banishments of bishops, and St. Athanasius was able to return to Alexandria. But when Julian wanted to re-paganize the Empire, he had to get rid of St. Athanasius - who now had to experience a fourth exile.

Fifth exile

When Emperor Jovian succeeded Julian, he recalled St. Athanasius back from his fourth exile. Jovian's rule however did not last long, and the next emperor, Valens, again ordered all orthodox bishops exiled. This exile only lasted for four months. In September 365 A.D., St. Athanasius was again back in Alexandria. He stayed in Alexandria for the last seven years of his life until his death on May 2.

Greek Father of the Church and Doctor of the Church

St. Athanasius supported the ascetic movement in Egypt and was the first to introduce knowledge of monasticism to the West. He wrote treatises on Catholic doctrine which illuminated many truths on the Christian faith. Among his great works are: Contra gentes and De incarnatione verbi Dei (318-323 A.D.). The major treatises he produced in his exile were: Apologia to Constantius, Defense of Flight, Letter to the Monks, and History of the Arians. The Church recognizes St. Athanasius as both a Father of the Church and Doctor of the Church.

Sources of this blog post:

• Dictionary of Saints, by John J. Delaney
• A Year with the Saints, by Don Bosco Press, Inc.
• Saints for Our Time, by Ed Ransom
• The Doctors of the Church, volume one, by John F. Fink
• The Essential Writings of Christian Mysticism, by editor Bernard McGinn

Saints with Feasts & Memorials of Celebrated in May

Joseph the Worker May 1

also on May 1 Amator or Amatre, bishop; Brioc or Brieuc, abbot; Sigismund of Burgundy; Marculf or Marcoul, abbot; Theodard of Narbonne, bishop; Peregrine Laziosi, Riccardo Pampuri

Athanasius: (died 373 A.D.): 45 years the bishop of Alexandria; champion of Nicea (325 A.D.); prolific polemicist against Arians who exiled him five times; one of the four great doctors of the Eastern Church; wrote On the Incarnation, the Discourses Against the Arians and the Life of Anthony; known as the "Doctor of the Incarnation". (May 2)

also on May 2: Exsuperius or Hesperus and Zoë, martyrs; Waldebert, abbot; Ultan, abbot; Wiborada, virgin and martyr; Mafalda or Matilda

Philip: (died 1st c.); from Bethsaida; among the first disciples called by Jesus (Jn 1:43-44); tradition holds he preached in Phrygia, dying on a cross at Hierapolis; two apocryphal works attributed to him; with James, venerated as the patron saint of Uruguay. (May 3)

James (died 62 A.D.): son of Alphaeus and cousin or "brother of the Lord"; surnamed "the less" or "the just" for his piety; leader of the Jerusalem church; an epistle is ascribed to him; believed to have been beaten or stoned to death; patron of the dying; with Philip, both saints mentioned in the Roman Canon. (May 3)

also on May 3: Alexander, Eventius and Theodulus, martyrs; Juvenal, bishop

on May 4: Cyriacus or Judas Quiricus, bishop; Pelagia of Tarsus, virgin and martyr; John Houghton, Robert Lawrence, Augustine Webster, Richard Reynolds, priests and martyrs; Venerius, bishop; Godehard or Gothard, bishop; Florian, martyr

on May 5: Hilary of Arles, bishop; Maurantius, abbot; Mauruntius, abbot; Avertinus; Angelo, martyr; Jutta, widow

on May 6: Evodius, bishop; Edbert, bishop; Petronax, abbot

on May 7: Domitian, bishop; Liuhard, bishop; Serenicus and Serenus; John of Beverly, bishop

on May 8: Victor Maurus, martyr; Acacius or Agathus, martyr; Gibrian; Desideratus, bishop; Boniface IV, pope; Benedict II, pope; Wiro, Plechlem and Oteger; Peter of Tarentaise, bishop

on May 9: Beatus; Pachomius, abbot; Gerontius, bishop

on May 10: Antoninus of Florence, bishop and confessor; Gordian and Epimachus, martyrs; Calepodius, martyr; Alphius, Cyrinus and Philadelphus, martyrs; Catald and Conleth, bishops; Solangia, virgin and martyr; John of Avila, priest

on May 11: Mamertus, bishop; Comgall, abbot; Asaph, bishop; Gengulf or Gengoul; Majolus or Mayeule, abbot; Ansfrid, bishop; Walter of L'Esterp, abbot; Francis di Girolamo; Ignatius of Laconi

Nereus and Achilleus: (died c. 304 A.D.); Roman soldiers until their conversion to Christianity; tradition holds they were either burned or beheaded. (May 12)

Pancras: (died c. 304); martyred probably in the persecution of Diocletian at the age of 14; perhaps from Syria; buried on the Via Aurelia. (May 12)

also on May 12: Epiphanus of Salamis, bishop; Modoaldus, bishop; Rictrudis, widow; Germanus of Constantinople, bishop; Dominic of Causeway

on May 13: Glyceris, virgin and martyr; Mucius or Mocius, martyr; Servatius or Servais, bishop; John the Silent; Erconwald, bishop; Euthymius the Illuminator, abbot; Peter Regalatus

Matthias (died 1st c.): chosen to replace Judas; qualified because he witnessed Jesus' ministry and resurrection; mentioned in the Roman Canon. (May 14)

also on May 14: Pontius, martyr; Carthage, Carthach or Mochuda, abbot; Erembert, bishop; Michael Garicoits; Mary Mazzarello, virgin

Isidore was born of poor parents in Madrid. Married to a poor woman, Maria de la Cabeza, who is also a saint, he worked as a hired ploughman. Because of his diligence, his employer allowed him to worship in church daily though Isidore took care that his devotion did not interfere with his work. He remained poor, but gave generously to his neighbors in need. He died on May 15, 1130 A.D. As patron of farmers, he is an example of a laborer who values both prayer and work. (May 15)

also on May 15: Torquatus and Companions, martyrs; Isidore of Chios; Hilary of Galeata, abbot; Dympna and Gerebernus, martyrs; Bertha and Rupert; Hallvard, martyr; Isaias of Rostov, bishop; Peter of Lampsacus and Companions, martyrs

on May 16: Ubaldus, bishop and confessor; Peregrine of Auxerre, bishop and martyr; Possidius, bishop; Germerius, bishop; Brendan, abbot; Domnolus, bishop; Carantoc or Carannog, abbot; Honoratus of Amiens, bishop; Simon Stock; John Nepomucen, martyr; Andrew Hubert Fournet

on May 17: Paschal Baylon, confessor; Madron or Madern; Bruno of Wurzburg, bishop

John I: Pope (523-526 A.D.); A native of Tuscany, he was a deacon from the time of his election to succeed Pope Hormisdas. He was the first pontiff to visit Constantinople and made one of the objectives of his reign the restoration of ecclesiastical peace with the Eastern Church after the divisive Acacian Schism 482-519 A.D.). (May 18)

also on May 18: Venantius, martyr; Theodotus, Thecusa and Companions, martyrs; Potamon, bishop and martyr; Eric of Sweden, martyr; Felix of Cantalice

on May 19: Peter Morrone or Peter Celestine V, hermit and pope; Prudentiana and Pudens, martyrs; Calocerus and Parthenius, martyrs; Dunstan, bishop; Ivo of Kermartin

Bernardine of Siena (died 1444 A.D.); O.F.M.; famous reformer and eloquent preacher who traveled throughout Italy; encouraged devotion to the Holy Name of Jesus; known for his use of the monogram, IHS (Iesus Hominum Salvator); patron of advertisers and advertising; invoked against hoarseness. (May 20)

also on May 20: Thalelaeus, martyr; Basilla or Basilissa, virgin and martyr; Baudelius, martyr; Austregisilus or Outril, bishop; Ethelbert, martyr

Cristobal Magallanes was joined in martyrdom by twenty-one diocesan priests and three devout laymen, all members of the Cristeros movement, who rose up in rebellion against the Anti-Catholic Mexican government during the 1920s. Having erected a seminary at Totatiche, he secretly spread the Gospel and ministered to the people. Captured by authorities, he was heard to shout from his jail cell: "I am innocent and die innocent. I forgive with all my heart those responsible for my death, and I ask God that the shedding of my blood serve the peace of our divided Mexico." (May 21)

also on May 21: Godric; Andrew Bobola, martyr; Theophilus of Corte, Eugene de Mazenod

Rita of Cascia: Born in 1381 A.D. in the little town of Roccaporena, in the Province of Umbria, Italy, Saint Rita was married and raised two sons. After the violent murder of her husband, Saint Rita urged forgiveness in contrast to the customary vendetta of the day. She was, however, repeatedly denied entrance to the Augustinian nuns due to the constant threat of violent revenge by her husband's relatives. Through her personal intercession a promise of forgiveness and peace was secured and she began forty years in prayer, contemplation and service to the sick and the poor. Toward the end of her life she received a wound from a thorn from the crown of thorns. (May 22)

also on May 22: Aemilius and Castus, martyrs; Quiteria, virgin and martyr; Romanus; Julia, martyr; Aigulf or Ayoul, bishop; Humility, widow

on May 23: Desiderius or Didier, bishop and martyr; Guibert; Leonitus of Rostov, bishop and martyr; Ivo of Chartres, bishop; Euphrosyne of Polotsk, virgin; William of Rochester, martyr; John Baptist Rossi; Peter Fioretti

on May 24: Donatian and Rogatian, martyrs; Vincent of Lerins; David I, King of Scotland; Nicetas of Pereaslav, martyr

Bede: (died 735 A.D.); O.S.B. born in Northumbria; called "Venerable" while still living; authored the Ecclesiastical History of the English People and wrote Scriptural expositions, commentaries and homilies; known as the "Father of English History" (May 25)

Gregory VII, (died 1085 A.D.); from Tuscany; O.S.B.; championed reform of the clergy against simony, clerical marriage and lay investiture, leading to excommunication of Henry IV; expanded the authority of the Roman See. (May 25)

Mary Magdalene of Pazzi: (died 1607 A.D.); Carmelite mystic of Florence; instrumental in the reform of the Order. (May 25)

also on May 25: Dionysius of Milan, bishop; Zenobius, bishop; Leo or Lye, abbot; Aldhelm, bishop; Gennandius, bishop; Madeleine Sophie Barat, virgin

Philip Neri (died 1595 A.D.): founded the Congregation of Priests of the Oratory to promote holiness of priestly life and foster effective preaching; noted for his joyful and simple spirit. (May 26)

also on May 26: Quadratus, bishop; Priscus or Prix and Companions, martyrs; Lambert of Vence, bishop; Marian of Quito, virgin

Augustine of Canterbury: (died May 26, ca. 604 A.D.); O.S.B. monk of Mt. Coelius in Rome; sent with 40 other monks by Pope Gregory I to England; baptized Ethelbert, king of Kent; ordained bishop 597 A.D.; established the sees of Canterbury, London and Rochester; in 601 A.D., received the pallium as primate of England. (May 27)

also on May 27: Restituta of Sora, virgin and martyr; Julius and Companions, martyrs; Eutropius of Orange, bishop; Melangell or Monacella, virgin

on May 28: Senator, bishop; Justus of Urgel, bishop; Germanus or Germain, bishop; William of Gellone; Bernard of Menthon or Montjoux; Ignatius of Rostov, bishop

on May 29: Cyril of Caesarea, martyr; Maximinus, bishop; Sisinnius, Martyrius and Alexander, martyrs; Theodosia, virgin and martyr; William, Stephen, Raymund and Companions, martyrs

on May 30: Isaac of Constantinople, abbot; Exsuperantius, bishop; Madelgisilus or Mauguille; Walstan; Ferdinand III, King of Castile; Joan of Arc, virgin; Eleutherius, pope; Luke Kirby, priest and martyr

Feast of the Visitation; Petronilla, virgin and martyr; Cantius, Cantianius and Cantianella, martyrs; Mechtildis of Edelstetten, virgin (May 31)