St. Ignatius of Loyola, Priest and Founder

Hagiography of St. Ignatius of Loyola, Priest and Founder, 1491-1556 A.D.

Introduction

St. Ignatius of Loyola used three names to refer to himself: Iñigo de Loyola, Ignacio de Loyola, and Ignatius de Loyola. It is the third name which many use to refer to him. Together with a few companions, he founded a religious order of men called the Society of Jesus. They use the IHS monogram which many of the universities and libraries in Europe bear. These buildings were once owned by the Jesuits [members of that Society] who had a strong influence in the education of many nobles and royalty in Europe. They were part of the scientific revolution, the exploration of nature and the world - sending ships beyond Europe to extend discoveries and the many missionary endeavors to the "new" lands. Their missionary and educational efforts spread to India, China, Japan, Mexico, and then to Brazil, Paraguay, Canada, the Midwest of the United States, and California. The leader and founder of this group of men was Saint Ignatius of Loyola.

Saint Ignatius of Loyola was born into a Basque family of minor nobility with no great wealth or important connections. His education was not extensive. He never rose to any high rank in the Church and was not a charismatic preacher. However, he became one of the great leaders and organizers of Counter-Reformation Europe. The instrument of his success was a written practical guide called "Spiritual Exercises" - a set of brief instructions for spiritual renewal that he composed during his convalescence after his injury in the siege of Pamplona.

More biographical data on St. Ignatius of Loyola and the founding and growth of the religious order he led:

• 1491 - Born in Loyola, probably before the 23rd of October
• 1505 October 23 - Azpeitia. Acts as witness on the sale of a horse
• 1506 - Travels to Arévalo as the page of Juan Velázquez de Cuéllar, main accountant of the Catholic King Ferdinand
• 1515 February 20 - Azpeitia. Brought to court by the magistrate of Guipuzcoa Hernández de la Gama, on what was considered a serious case against him
• 1517 - Joins a gentleman the service of Antonio Manrique de Lara, duke of Nájera, viceroy of Navarre
• 1520 - Participates in the military occupation f Nájera
• 1521 May 17-18 - Leads a garrison of auxiliary troops to Pamplona.
  
  May 19 - Does not allow for the fortress to be surrendered to the French troops.
  
  May 20 - Is wounded in the right leg defending the castle and receives medical care from the French doctors.
  
  May 23 - The castle of Pamplona surrenders.
  
  June 2-5 - Is taken to Loyola.
  
  June 24 - Receives the last sacraments.
  
  June 28 - Begins to recover.
  
  August-September - Asks for reading material, exciting romances about knights, which were then fashionable reading. They give him, for lack of these books, the lives of the saints. From now on he aims to imitate them. Conversion.
  
  October-December - Looks for signs in the readings of Vita Christi by the Carthusian Ludolph of Saxony, which had been translated into Spanish and given a preface by the Franciscan Fray Ambrosio de Montesino. He also came across some lives of the saints (Flos Sanctorum) written by the Dominican Bishop Jacobus de Voraigne, with an introduction by the Cistercian Fray Gauberto Maria Vagad


• 1522 February - Leaves for Aránzazu, Navarrete, and Montserrat.
  
  March - Reaches Montserrat.
  
  March 22-24 - General confession.
  
  March 25 - Descends to Manresa, where he dedicates himself to a life of prayer and penance.
  
  August-September - Has vision by the Cardoner River. Inner transformation. Begins to write the Spiritual Exercises


• 1523 - February - Arrives in Barcelona on his way to Jerusalem.
  
  September 4 - Arrives in Jerusalem


• 1524 - Returns to Barcelona at the beginning of February
• 1525 - Spends the whole year in Barcelona studying grammar
• 1526 - Travels to Alcalá to study humanities.
  
  November 21 - Juan Rodríguez de Figueroa, Vicar-General of Alcalá, dictates sentence against Ignatius
  
  December - Ignatius and his three companions are asked to wear different clothing and shoes


• 1527 March 6 - The Inquisition goes against him.
  
  April 18-19 - Goes to jail.
  
  May 2-21 - Third bout with the Inquisition.
  
  June 1 - Sentence of Figueroa against Ignatius. Ignatius leaves jail about the 21st of June. Leaves Alcála.
  
  July, early - Arrives in Salamanca.
  
  July, towards the end - Encounter with the Dominicans. Goes to jail after three days.
  
  August 20-22 - Is absolved by the Inquisition but is forbidden to teach theological matters without studying theology. Leaves jail.
  
  September - Leaves Salamanca and via Barcelona leaves for Paris. His companions abandon him


• 1528 February 2 - Arrives in Paris. Lives in a hospital. Studies Latin at Montaigu College.
  
  April, past the 12th - Moves to the pilgrim hospice of St. Jacques for lack of money


• 1529 Lent - First trip to Bruges, where he met with Luis Vives, Erasmus' best disciple.
  
  May-June - Gives the Exercises to Peralta, Castro, and Amador.
  
  September - Moves to the College of Sante-Barbe in Paris.
  
  October 1 - Starts his studies in philosophy and becomes friendly with Peter Faver and Francis Xavier


• 1530-1531 - Travels to Antwerp and London
• 1532 - Becomes a Bachelor of Arts
• 1534 April - Obtains his Master of Arts degree, and is known as master Ignatius.
  
  August - Ignatius and his friends, Nicolás Bobadilla, Peter Faver, Diego Laínez, Símon Rodríguez, Alfonso Salmerón and Francisco de Xavier met in the Chapel of the Martyrs in Montmartre to take their vows and lead a radically apostolic life according to the Gospel. The vows they took were of poverty, chastity, and to make a pilgrimage to Jerusalem. If the pilgrimage proved impossible, they proposed to put themselves at the direct service of the Pope, for in their opinion, he had the best overall view of the needs of Christendom


• 1535 - Returns to Spain to recover his health
• 1536 - Goes to Venice to study theology and give the exercises
• 1537 - His companions from Paris arrive and work at the hospitals.
  
  June - Becomes a priest
  
  November - Has the vision at La Storta. Enters Rome


• 1538 June-August - Persecution in Rome is resolved in Ignatius' favor
  
  November 18-23 - Unable to go to Jerusalem, the first companions put themselves at the service of the pope


• 1539 March - Deliberation to form a religious order
  
  May 4 - First decision about the society
  
  June-August - The first draft of the society is prepared
  
  September 3 - Pope Paul III approves the new society


• 1540 March 4 - Simón Rodríguez leaves on his way to India
  
  March 16 - Francis Xavier leaves for India
  
  September 27 - The Society of Jesus is officially approved with the bull Regimini militantis Ecclesiae, limiting the number of members to 60


• 1541 March 10 - The constitutions of the society are drafted
  
  April 8 - Ignatius is unanimously chosen as general of the new society
  
  April 19 - Ignatius accepts


• 1544 February 2 - March 13 - Writes the Spiritual Diary
  
  March 14 - New bull Iniunctum nobis reconfirming the society and removing the limitation of 60 members.


• 1544-1552 - Runs the society spreading all over the world and finishes writing the constitutions
• 1554 April - Is ill and health deteriorates
  
  October 26 - Accepts as a member of the society the daughter of King Charles V, Doña Juana de Austria, the only woman Jesuit


• 1556 July 30 - Ignatius dies
  
  August 1 - He is buried


• 1622 March 12 - He is canonized by Gregory XV
• 1922 July 25 - Ignatius is proclaimed Patron of all Spiritual Exercises and works related to them by Pius XI.

Related resources:

• Dictionary of Saints, by John J. Delaney
• "A Year with the Saints" by Don Bosco Press, Inc.
• "Saints for Our Time" by Ransom

Memorial of Saints (July 31)

St. Ignatius of Loyola was converted from a worldly career to a life of holiness in Christ after he was wounded seriously in battle in 1521 A.D. Upon recuperating at his family's castle, he read books on the Lives of the Saints and a Life on Christ. This reading inspired him deeply that he searched more into the spiritual life. From his spiritual experiences, he wrote a guidebook on meditation called "The Spiritual Exercises". This was to be instrumental in his obtaining followers, and founding of the Jesuit Order. Through his leadership, the Jesuits influenced much of Europe and the rest of the world. The Jesuits evangelized many people in their missions and educated leaders through their education system. St. Ignatius spent the rest of his years in Rome, where he directed the members of the Order (died ca. 1556 A.D.).

St. Neot was a monk at Glastorbury, England. He was ordained a cleric and decided to become a hermit in Cornwall (which is now known as St. Neot). Because of his exemplary life of holiness, his relative, King Alfred, went to visit him to seek his advice. Nothing else is known about St. Neot's life except that he was the reason Cornwall, England came to be known as St. Neot (died ca. 880 A.D.).

St. Helen of Skövde was a Swedish noblewoman who gave her possessions to the poor upon the death of her husband. She then made a pilgrimage to Rome, but upon her return to Sweden, she was accused of the death of her son-in-law. Though she was executed for a crime she never committed, it was later discovered that her son-in-law had been murdered by his own servants. Miracles were reported to have numerously happened at her tomb (died ca. 1160 A.D.).

St. Germanus of Auxerre studied in Gallic schools and pursued a legal profession in Rome. In 418 A.D., he was named bishop of Auxerre. Upon his ascent to the episcopate, he led a holy life and worked for the good of his diocese. St. Germanus was a strong defender of the Church against the Pelagian heresy. And aside from combatting this heresy, he also had to contend with hostile groups like the Picts, the Saxons and other savage tribes (died ca. 448 A.D.).

St. Justin de Jacobis joined the Vincentians and was ordained. He served as local superior in Lecce before he was sent to the Catholic mission at Adua, Ethiopia. Though he had difficulties at first, he was able to meet the Pope in Rome. After the meeting with the Pope, St. Justin founded a college and seminary in his mission. By 1853 A.D., there were some five thousand Catholic Ethiopians. However, in 1860 A.D., a new king launched a persecution against the Catholics. St. Justin was arrested. After months in prison, he was released and was able to find his way to Eritrea, where he spent his last years (died ca. 1860 A.D.).

Memorial of Saints (July 30)

Peter: (died c. 450 A.D.); called "Chrysologus" (golden-tongue) for his exceptional preaching ability; bishop of Ravenna; 170 homilies are extant.

The homilies of St. Peter were short; he did not want to tire his listeners. But his sermons were greatly known as being powerful that he was named Doctor of the Church by Pope Benedict XIII in 1729 A.D. Peter's sermons were collected by Bishop Felix of Ravenna in the eighth century A.D. There are about one hundred seventy-six of these existing today. They cover biblical texts, the Apostles' Creed, sermons on the Blessed Virgin and other themes. Learn more.

also on July 30: Abdon and Sennen, martyrs; Julitta, widow and martyr

Abdon and Sennen (d. ca. 303 A.D.) were arrested during Diocletian's persecution of Christians. When they refused to sacrifice to the gods, they were exposed to the wild beasts. But they were unharmed by the wild beasts. They were eventually hacked to pieces by the gladiators.

Memorial of Saints (July 29)

Martha (died 1st c. A.D.): sister of Mary and Lazarus; model of hospitality and faithful disciple; confessed her faith in Jesus as the Son of God; patroness of housewives, waiters and waitresses.

also on July 29:

• Felix II, pope;
• Simplicius, Faustinus and Beatrice, martyrs;
• Lupus or Loup, bishop;
• Olaf, martyr;
• William Pinchon, bishop

Olaf (995-1030 A.D.) spent his youth as a pirate. But he was baptized in Rouen, and in 1013 A.D. went to England to aid the King against the Danes. He went back to Norway, captured most of Norway from the Danes and the Swedes, and became king. He set about unifying his realm and Christianizing it. But because his rule was harsh, it precipitated a revolt that made him flee to Russia. He returned to Norway and attempted to recover his kingdom but he was slain in the battle. Though not popular during his lifetime, miracles were reported at his shrine. A chapel was built there which became a great pilgrimage center in Scandinavia. He was canonized in 1164 A.D. and is the patron saint of Norway.

17th Sunday of the Year (B)

(Edited) Sunday reflections (from) 17th Sunday of the Year - liturgical years 2014 (A), 2015 (B), and 2016 (C)

July 26, 2015
Liturgical readings
2 Kings 4:42-44
Psalm 145
Ephesians 4:1-6
John 6:1-15

"Gather up the crusts so that nothing will go to waste."

The miracle of the loaves and the fish in the gospel of John. This miracle involved five thousand men. In the other gospels, there is an additional phrase added - "not counting women and children". But even without this additional phrase in John's gospel, we can see that families benefitted from the feeding miracle of Jesus. So all the people had their fill, and there were still leftovers from the miracle of the loaves and the fish. Note what the Lord said to His disciples: "gather up the crusts that are left over so that nothing will go to waste." The Lord's miracle was also an occasion to teach that God's graces and blessings are life-giving and should not be put to waste; it is to be gathered for others as well.

All human life and creation is part of God's plan - a plan that is good and meant to serve His divine purpose. All life comes from God and goes back to God. This mystery and gift of God's grace and mercy received each day must be reproduced and responsibly taken care of, "so that nothing will go to waste", and may benefit others as well. The gathering of the hosts in the Eucharistic celebration is symbolic of that feeding miracle of Christ. After everyone in the Eucharistic celebration have been fed with the Body, Blood, Soul and Divinity of the Lord, the communion ministers gather all the hosts and place them in ciboria. These are brought back to the tabernacle for the next Mass. From this "left overs" of God's grace, some are brought to the sick in the parish either by the parish priest, other assistant clergy or by the communion ministers.

God's blessings and graces are never sparse but always there for us. Even when times get difficult, material resources are scarce, and good seems absent in the environment, the Lord continues to provide - both spiritually and materially. We are to seek His Kingdom and all things will be provided for us. But we also have to do our part to save, and not to waste God's blessings and provisions. We know by experience the value of "left overs" in hard times. Many families are trained in the dinner table to get only what they need, and to finish everything in their plate. This discipline need not be only in matters relating to food, but in all areas of Christian life. As St. Francis de Sales counsels, whenever there is an opportunity to "store" patience, or meekness in our souls, then we should do so. For when calamity arrives, impatience is high and anger can erupt. But if we have "stored" virtue in our way of living, no difficulty or calamity can take away our focus on the Lord.

Memorial of Saints (July 27)

on July 27: Pantaleon, martyr; The Seven Sleepers of Ephesus; Aurelius, Natalia, Felix and Companions, martyrs; Theobald of Marly, abbot

Memorial of Saints (July 26)

Joachim and Anne: Names of the parents of Mary found in the 2nd c. A.D. Protoevangelium of James, veneration of Anne originated in 6th c. A.D. East; patroness of childless women and miners; devotion to Joachim dates from the 8th c. A.D.

also on July 26:

• Simeon the Armenian;
• Bartholomea Capitanio, virgin

Bartholomea Capitanio (1807-1833 A.D.) was unable to secure her parents' permission to become a nun. She organized a sodality for the education of the young, met Catherine Gerosa, and together they founded an institute. The congregation eventually secured papal approval. Bartholomea died on July 26 at twenty-six and was canonized in 1950.

Memorial of Saints (July 25)

James, brother of John, is called "the Greater" because he followed Christ before the other apostle of the same name; first of the twelve to be martyred, being decapitated by order of Herod Agrippa I, c. 44 A.D.; venerated at Campostella, Spain; named in the Roman Canon; patron of Spain, Guatemala, and Nicaragua.

also on July 25:

• Christopher, martyr;
• Thea, Valentina and Paul, martyrs;
• Magnericus, bishop

Christopher (d. ca. 251 A.D.) is well known among seasoned Catholics. His image as a man carrying the child Jesus in his shoulders over a river has been part of devotional practice before Vatican II. Even when devotion to Christopher declined when the socio-historical side of the Catholic faith had been emphasized, he is still present in religious tradition. The image of Christopher carrying the child Jesus over a river, will always make the meaning of his name notable - "Christopher = Christ-bearer". He is the patron of travelers and also particularly of motorists. He will always be remembered as long as traditional devotional practices are still in place through religious art, imagery and literature. And if the need for divine protection for travel becomes necessary, devotion to Christopher may be important again.

The Use of the Internet

There are many Church documents on the use of the Internet for evangelization purposes. Three that are worth mentioning are: The Church and Internet (February 22, 2002), the 36th World Communications Day Message (May 12, 2002), and Rapid Development (January 24, 2005).

There are many principles outlined in these documents. In Pope John Paul II's Message for the 36th World Communications Day, the principles are:

• "The Church in every age continues the work begun on the day of Pentecost...to preach the Gospel to every nation." (paragraph 1)
• "For the Church the new world of cyberspace is a summons...of using its potential to proclaim the Gospel message". (paragraph 2)
• "Like other communications media, it is a means, not an end in itself (paragraph 3)
• "Christian living calls for continuing instruction and catechesis...the area in which the Internet can provide excellent help". (paragraph 3)
• "...the Internet can never replace that profound experience of God which only the living, liturgical and sacramental life of the Church can offer...it can certainly provide a unique supplement and support". (paragraph 3)
• "...that this marvellous instrument serves the common good and does not become a source of harm". (paragraph 4)
• "...how are we to cultivate...values...insight...the wisdom that understands the difference between right and wrong (in the context of the Internet)?" (paragraph 4)
• "...electronically mediated relationships can never take the place of the direct human contact required for genuine evangelization". (paragraph 5)
• "...how can we ensure [the Internet] will work in favour of the globalization of human development and solidarity, objectives closely linked to the Church's evangelical mission?" (paragraph 5)
• "...how can we ensure that [the Internet] can serve the cause of peace?" (paragraph 5)
• "From this galaxy of sight and sound will the face of Christ emerge and the voice of Christ be heard?" (paragraph 6)
• "...this is what will make the Internet a genuinely human space...room for Christ [and] ...room for man". (paragraph 6)

Memorial of Saints (July 24)

Sharbel Makhlouf: was a Lebanese monk, born in a small mountain village and ordained in 1858 A.D. Devoted to the Blessed Virgin Mary, he spent the last twenty three years of his life as a hermit. Despite temptations to wealth and comfort, Saint Sharbel taught the value of poverty, self-sacrifice and prayer by the way he lived his life.

also on July 24:

• Christina, virgin and martyr;
• Lewina, virgin and martyr;
• Declan, bishop;
• Boris and Gleb, martyrs;
• Christina the Astonishing, virgin;
• Christina of Tyre, virgin and martyr;
• John Boste, priest and martyr

Declan (c. 6th century A.D.) was born at Desi in Ireland and was baptized by St. Colman. After being a disciple of St. Colman, he made two pilgrimages to Rome and later became bishop of Ardmore.

Memorial of Saints (July 23)

Bridget (died 1373 A.D.): in Rome; born in Sweden; mother of eight; mystic, prophet and foundress of the Order of the Most Holy Savior ("Bridgetines"); sought an end to the luxury and dissipation of the Avignon papacy and return of the pope to Rome; her Revelations record her spiritual experiences and life; patroness of Sweden.

(more on St. Bridget of Sweden)

St. Bridget experienced visions and revelations early in life. After marrying and having children, she made a holy pilgrimage to St. Olaf at Norway. Upon her husband's death in 1344 A.D., she spent the next four years living in the Cistercian monastery of Alvastra. As a result of a revelation in her visions, she denounced the King and Queen of Sweden for their frivolous lives. She then founded a monastery at Vadstena in 1344 A.D. This marked the beginning of the Order of the Most Holy Trinity (the Brigettines). Vadstena then became the intellectual center of fifteenth century Sweden.

Because St. Bridget had very high moral standards, she denounced many people in high offices, including Pope Urban V. The constitutions of her Order was approved in 1370 A.D. Before she passed away in 1373 A.D., St. Bridget made a final journey to the Holy Land in 1371 A.D. Canonized in 1391 A.D., she is also known as Birgitta.

also on July 23:

• Apollinaris of Ravenna, bishop and martyr;
• Liborius, bishop;
• The Three Wise Men;
• John Cassian, abbot (learn more);
• Romula and her Companions, virgins;
• Anne or Susanna, virgin

Liborius (d. 390 A.D.) was known to be a bishop of Le Mans, Gaul, for almost fifty years. This is all that is known about him.

Memorial of Saints (July 22)

Mary Magdalene: (died 1st c. A.D.); healed of possession; disciple of Jesus and present at his crucifixion; in Mark, the first to witness to the risen Lord (hence, called the "apostle of the apostles" - Robanus Maurus, +856 A.D.); mistakenly identified as the sinful woman of Luke 7:36-50; patroness of the Order of Preachers.

also on July 22:

• Joseph of Palestine;
• Wandregisilus or Wandrille, abbot;
• Philip Evans and John Lloyd, priests and martyrs

Joseph of Palestine (d. ca. 356 A.D.) was assistant to Rabbi Hillel, but became a Christian when the Rabbi was baptized at his death. He inherited the Christian books of the Rabbi. He was made a comes by Emperor Constantine and built several churches in Galilee. When he took up residence in Scythopolis, he gave shelter to St. Eusebius of Vercelli, St. Epiphanus, and other refugees of Arian persecution. St. Epiphanus later wrote a biography of Joseph of Palestine.

Wandregisilus (d. 668 A.D.) was married in deference to his parents wishes. In 628 A.D., he separated from his wife by mutual consent: she to become a nun, and he to become a Benedictine monk in Montefaucon Abbey under St. Baudry. For a time he also became a hermit, then went to Romain-Moûtier abbey where he was ordained after 10 years. He again left this abbey to found a new one in Normandy. It was here that he also built a school and became involved in preaching to the inhabitants of the area.

The Classics of Catholic Spirituality

The Classics of Catholic Spirituality: A Brief Introduction to 14 Catholic Classics

For those interested, 14 classic spiritualities of the Catholic faith are in this book. It gives an overview of fourteen great classics in the Christian faith. It also outlines all the themes that go into a Catholic classic.

A brief introduction

According to Fr. Arie van der Hulst, SMM, a priest of the Montfort Missionaires, it takes a certain level of spiritual understanding to read the classics. One who intends to read the classics has to have a certain level of spiritual experience to understand the richness of its wisdom. Some classics are easily understood; others may be read and understood when the level of one's relationship with God approaches that of the author. If you have a spiritual director, then you can seek counsel what classic books are best for your spiritual journey.

14 Classics in the book are listed below:

• St. Augustine: Confessions


• The Cloud of Unknowing


• The Little Flowers of St. Francis


• Julian of Norwich: Revelations of Divine Love
  


• St. Catherine of Siena: The Dialogue


• Thomas a Kempis: The Imitation of Christ


• St. Ignatius of Loyola: The Spiritual Exercises
  


• St. John of the Cross: The Ascent of Mount Carmel
  


• St. Teresa of Avila: Interior Castel


• St. Francis de Sales: Introduction to the Devout Life


• Bro. Lawrence of the Resurrection: The Practice of the Presence of God


• St. Louis de Montfort: True Devotion to the Blessed Virgin Mary


• Jean-Pierre de Caussade: Abandonment to Divine Providence


• St. Therese of Lisieux: Story of a Soul

Short descriptions and explanations

The short descriptions and explanations of the content inside the fourteen classics are easy to understand because the author writes them in layman's language. The reader will easily understand what each spiritual author is saying through a general description of the author's life and his spirituality. What one can learn from the descriptions is only the "tip of the iceberg". But the challenge for each interested reader is to know more about them through the actual reading of the classic book itself. If you decide to go to the book themselves - the primary sources - you will see in greater detail the beauty and splendor of the truth of God and the respect we own Him for our life and world.

Some suggestions

If you have not read anyone of the fourteen classics above, a starter list suggestion for reading would be the following:

• The Cloud of Unknowing


• The Little Flowers of St. Francis


• The Imitation of Christ


• Introduction to the Devout Life


• Abandonment to Divine Providence


• Story of a Soul

Of all the six books listed above, the Story of a Soul is easy to understand. It is written by St. Therese of the Child Jesus. The Introduction to the Devout Life, written by St. Francis de Sales is also a very good guide to holiness mapped for the faithful in all walks of life.

Classic Novenas

Classic Novenas

To the Holy Spirit

O Holy Spirit, Third Person of the Blessed Trinity! Spirit of Truth, Love and Holiness, proceeding from the Father and the Son, and equal to Them in all things! I adore Thee and love Thee with all my heart. Teach me to know and to seek God, by whom and for whom I was created. Fill my heart with holy fear and love of God. Grant me compunction and patience, and suffer me not to fall into sin. Give me an increase of Faith, Hope and Charity, and bring forth in my soul all the virtues proper to my state of life. Give me the four Cardinal Virtues, Thy seven Gifts and Thy twelve Fruits. Make me a faithful follower of Jesus and an obedient child of the Church. Give me the grace to keep the Commandments and to receive the Sacraments worthily. Raise me to perfection in the state of life to which Thou hast called me, and lead me through a happy death, to everlasting life. Through Jesus Christ, Our Lord. Grant me also, O Holy Spirit, Thou who art the giver of all good gifts, the special favour for which I ask (name it), if it be for Thy greater honor and glory and the good of my soul.

Glory be to the Father (3 times)

Novena of Confidence to the Sacred Heart

O Lord Jesus Christ, to Thy Most Sacred Heart, I confide this intention (here mention your request). Only look upon me, then do what Thy Sacred Heart inspires. Let Thy Sacred Heart decide...I count on It...I trust in It...I throw myself on Its mercy. Sacred Heart of Jesus, I trust in Thee. Sacred Heart of Jesus, I believe in Thy love for me. Sacred Heart of Jesus, Thy kingdom come. O Sacred Heart of Jesus, I have asked Thee for many favors, but I earnestly implore this one. Take it, place it in Thy open, broken Heart; and when the Eternal Father looks upon it, covered with Thy Precious Blood, He will not refuse it. It will be no longer my prayer, but Thine, O Jesus, O Sacred Heart of Jesus, I place all my trust in Thee. Let me not be disappointed. Amen.

Novena in Urgent Need to the Infant Jesus of Prague

To be said at the same time for nine consecutive hours or for nine days

O Jesus, who hast said, "Ask and you shall receive, seek and you shall find, knock and it shall be opened to you," through the intercession of Mary, Thy most holy Mother, I knock, I seek, I ask that my prayer be granted.

Mention your request

O Jesus, who hast said, "All that you ask of the Father in My Name, He will grant you," through the intercession of Mary, Thy most holy Mother, I humbly and urgently ask Thy Father in Thy Name that my prayer be granted.

Mention your request

O Jesus, who hast said, "Heaven and earth shall pass away, but
My word shall not pass," through the intercession of Mary, Thy most
holy Mother, I feel confident that my prayer will be granted.

Mention your request

To Our Lady of Perpetual Help

O Mother of Perpetual Help! grant that I may ever invoke your
most powerful name, which is the safeguard of the living and the
salvation of the dying. O purest Mary! O sweetest Mary! let your
name henceforth be ever on my lips. Delay not, O Blessed Lady, to
succour me whenever I call on you. In all my temptations, in all
my needs, I will never cease to call on you ever repeating your
sacred name. Mary, Mary. Oh, what a consolation, what sweetness,
what confidence, what emotion fills my soul when I utter your sacred
name, or even only think of you! I thank the Lord for having given
you, for my good, so sweet, so powerful, so lovely a name. But I
will not be content with merely uttering your name. Let my love for
you prompt me ever to hail you Mother of Perpetual Help. Mother of
Perpetual Help, pray for me and grant me the favour I confidently
ask of you. Hail Mary (3 times)

To Our Lady of Lourdes

O Ever Immaculate Virgin, Mother of Mercy, Health of the Sick,
Refuge of Sinners, Comfortress of the Afflicted, you know my wants,
my troubles, my sufferings; deign to cast upon me a look of mercy.
By appearing in the grotto of Lourdes you were pleased to make it a
privileged sanctuary whence you dispense your favours, and where
many sufferers have obtained the cure of their infirmities, both
spiritual and corporal. I come, therefore, with unbounded confidence
to implore your maternal intercession. Obtain O loving Mother, the
grant of my request. I will endeavour to imitate your virtues, that
I may one day share your glory and bless you in eternity. Amen.

Prayer to One's Patron or to Any Saint

O Glorious Saint N. (my beloved Patron), you served
God in humility and confidence on earth and are now in the enjoyment
of His beatific Vision in heaven because you persevered till death
and gained the crown of eternal life. Remember now the dangers that
surround me in the vale of tears, and intercede for me in my needs
and troubles

(especially...)

To St. Anthony of Padua, the Wonder Worker

In Any Need

St. Anthony, glorious for your miracles and for the condescension
of Jesus in coming as a little child to repose in your arms, obtain
for me from His bounty the grace which I ardently desire. You who
were so compassionate towards sinners, regard not my unworthiness,
but the glory of God, that it may be magnified by you in connection
with the particular request which I now earnestly present to you.
(Name it). As a pledge of my gratitude, I beg you to accept
my promise to live more faithfully in accordance with the teachings
of the Church, and to be devoted to the service of the poor whom you
ever loved and still love so greatly. Bless this my resolution,
that I may be faithful to it even until death. St. Anthony, consoler
of all the afflicted, pray for me. St. Anthony, helper of all who
invoke you, pray for me. St. Anthony, whom the Infant Jesus so
much loved and honoured, pray for me.

To Find A Lost Article

St. Anthony, perfect imitator of Jesus, who received from God the
special power of restoring lost things, grant that I may
find...which has been lost, if such be the will of God; or at least
restore to me peace and tranquillity of mind, the loss of which has
afflicted me even more than my material loss. To this favour I beg
you to add another; that I may always remain in possession of the
true good that is God. May I rather lose all things than to lose
God, my supreme Good, or suffer the loss of my greatest treasure,
my immortal soul.

To St. Gerard

For An Expectant Mother

Great St. Gerard, beloved servant of Jesus Christ, perfect imitator
of our 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 like your Divine Master, you bore
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 in the
dangers of motherhood and shield the child I now bear, that it
may be brought safely to the light of day and receive the sacrament
of baptism.

Hail Mary (3 times)

To St. Peregrine, The "Cancer Saint"

Glorious Wonder-Worker, St. Peregrine, you answered the divine
call with a ready spirit, and forsook all the comforts of the world
to dedicate yourself to God in the Order of His most Holy Mother.
You laboured manfully for the salvation of souls; and in union with
Jesus Crucified you endured the most painful sufferings with such
patience as to deserve to be healed miraculously of an incurable
cancer in your leg by a touch of His divine hand. Obtain for me the
grace to answer every call of God and to fulfill His will in all the
events of life. Enkindle in my heart a consuming zeal for the
salvation of souls; deliver me from the infirmities that afflict my
body (especially...). Obtain for me also perfect resignation
to the sufferings it may please God to send me, so that, imitating
our Crucified Savior and His Sorrowful Mother, I may merit eternal
glory in heaven. Amen.

16th Sunday of the Year (B)

(Edited) Reflections (from) 16th Sunday of the Year (B), July 22, 2012

Liturgical readings

Jeremiah 23:1-6
Psalm 23
Ephesians 2:13-18
Mark 6:30-34

"Like sheep without a shepherd."

Because of the hard work the apostles did in their preaching and mission work, Jesus invited them to go to a deserted place to rest from their labors. The mission was fruitful, for many believed in their words and deeds. Such was the success of their mission work that crowds of people continued to stay close to the apostles - making it difficult for the Twelve to even rest and eat. So Jesus led the apostles to a boat where they could go far. The people however were so eager to follow them, that they arrived at the place even before Jesus and the Twelve embarked from their boat. When Jesus saw the crowd, He was moved with compassion, for the people were "like sheep without a shepherd".

Since the time of Jesus, the missionary spirit of the Church has left us with many "landmarks". These basic landmarks are what we can find in our Creed, the moral teachings of the Church, and the traditional prayers (both individual and Sacramental) that have guided all the faithful since the day of each one's baptism. As long as the faithful believe, follow and continuously pray within these landmarks, all will be kept within the sheepfold of Christ, our Good Shepherd. But if these these landmarks were removed from one's way of life, and the faithful follow other philosophies, trends or ways of thinking (especially anti-Catholic ones), we may end up losing our way in the world.

Our present times appears to be neglectful of these landmarks. And humility and vigilance are important virtues to practice in these times. Humility predisposes our minds and our hearts to listen and to obey. Vigilance on the other hand keeps our minds and our hearts watchful against anything that can lead our souls astray. Prayers help a lot, but the Sacraments (especially the Eucharist) can continually guide us in the right path. And as long as we keep within the thinking and the practice of the Church (as St. Ignatius of Loyola and St. Thomas of Aquinas counsels in their writings), then we can make our way through all the confusion, uncertainties and anxieties of our times.

Memorial of Saints (July 20)

Apollinarius: Early accounts report that Saint Apollinarius was ordained Bishop by Peter himself and sent as a missionary bishop to Ravenna during the reign of the emperor Claudius. Renowned for his powers to heal in the name of Christ, he was frequently exiled, tortured and imprisoned for the faith, and finally martyred. He is also known as Apollinaris of Ravenna and some martyrologies and calendars celebrate his feast day on July 23.

also on July 20: Wilgefortis or Liberta; Joseph Barsabas; Aurelius, bishop; Flavian and Elias, bishops; Vulmar or Wulmar, abbot; Ansegisus, abbot

St. Lawrence of Brindisi, Priest and Doctor of the Church

St. Lawrence of Brindisi, Priest and Doctor: 1559-1619 A.D.

Feast day, July 21

Birth, early life and entrance into the Capuchin Order

Caesare de Rossi, a.k.a. St. Lawrence of Brindisi, was born in the town of Brindisi, in the kingdom of Naples, on July 22, 1559 A.D. His education began with the Conventual Franciscans, who lived also in the same town of Brindisi. When Caesare's parents died, he was taken in by his uncle, who sent him to the College of Saint Mark's in Venice. Then, upon reaching sixteen years of age, Caesare joined the Order of the Friars Minor Capuchin - a branch of the Franciscans that had been established forty-six years earlier (in 1528 A.D.) by Matteo di Bassi Urbino. Upon entrance into this religious order, "Caesare" changed his name to "Lawrence".

His marvelous gift for languages

Lawrence was sent to the University of Padua for his philosophical and theological studies. It was there that they discovered his marvelous gift for languages. So, besides his own native Italian, he also became fluent in Latin, Greek, Hebrew, German, Bohemian, French and Spanish. Because of this knowledge, St. Lawrence was able to study the Bible in its original languages (Hebrew and Greek). Then, he was ordained a priest at age twenty-three, and began a preaching ministry in Padua, Verona, Vicenza and other cities in northern Italy.

Definitor General and converter of Jews

In 1596 A.D., the Capuchins called him to Rome to fill the post of definitor general of the Order - a position he was to hold five times. While in Rome, he was also asked by Pope Clement VIII to use his knowledge of Hebrew and the Old Testament to preach to the Jews in Italy. St. Lawrence proved to be successful at converting many Jews because his fluency in Hebrew led many Jews to believe that he was a Jew who converted to Catholicism.

Sent on a mission to the German Empire

In 1598 A.D., Germany and Austria were threatened by Lutheranism. St. Lawrence was thus sent to the German Empire, together with Blessed Benedict of Urbino, to establish the Capuchins in that part of Europe and to oppose Lutheranism. The two Capuchin friars founded friaries in Prague (now in modern day Czech Republic), Vienna (in Austria), and Gorizia (in northern Italy). These were to later develop into the provinces of Bohemia, Austria, and Styria.

Chaplain and leader in the battle against the Turks

It was while in Germany that Emperor Rudolf III asked St. Lawrence to help raise an army and to secure the help of the various German princes to defend the Empire against the Ottoman Turks, who were threatening to conquer all of Hungary. St. Lawrence of Brindisi was indeed able to raise an army and then became its chaplain and leader. It was said that he gave a rousing address to the troops and rode into battle mounted on a horse ahead of them - armed only with a crucifix. The victory over the Turks was then credited and attributed to him.

Accepted a mission to King Philip III of Spain

In 1602 A.D., St. Lawrence was elected vicar general of the Capuchins, but refused re-election in 1605 A.D. Instead, he accepted a mission on behalf of Emperor Rudolf, to talk King Philip III of Spain into joining the Catholic League - a league of countries headed by Catholic rulers in opposition to a group of nations headed by Protestant rulers. St. Lawrence was successful in this mission and was even able to found a house of the Capuchins in Madrid, Spain.

On a mission to Bavaria before retirement

After his mission in Spain, the Holy See saw his gift of diplomacy and thus appointed Lawrence as papal nuncio in Munich - where he was sent to the court of Maximilian of Bavaria. While living in Munich, St. Lawrence administered two Capuchin provinces and continued in his work of preaching and conversions. He was also frequently used as a mediator and peacemaker in several quarrels and disputes between rulers. After all these missions and activities, St. Lawrence then retired from worldly affairs to the friary at Caeserta in 1618 A.D.

Noted for his eleven volumes of collected sermons

Compared to other doctors of the Church, St. Lawrence of Brindisi did not write any important books. He did however write commentaries on Genesis and Ezekiel and several treatises against Luther. He is most noted though for his sermons which, when the Capuchins collected them in 1956 A.D., filled about eleven volumes. In those sermons, Lawrence of Brindisi relied on Scripture quotations to illustrate the points he was making. His teachings show a combination of brilliance and human compassion.

Last mission before his death

While in retirement, Lawrence was recalled at the request of the rulers of Naples to go to Spain to intercede with King Philip for them against the duke of Osuna. Lawrence acceded to their request and went to convince the king to recall the duke of Osuna to avert an uprising. As a result of this work, St. Lawrence was completely worn out. The trip in the sweltering heat of summer exhausted him and so he died a few days after his meeting with the king on July 22, 1619 A.D.

St. Lawrence of Brindisi was beatified in 1783 A.D. by Pope Pius VI, canonized in 1881 A.D. by Pope Leo XIII, and declared a doctor of the Church in 1959 A.D. by Pope John XXIII. The Church celebrates his feast on July 21.

References of this article

• Dictionary of Saints, by John J. Delaney
• The Doctors of the Church vol 1, by John F. Fink
• A Year With the Saints, by Don Bosco Press, Inc.

Memorial of Saints (July 19)

• Justa and Rufina, virgin and martyrs;
• Arsenius;
• Symmachus, pope;
• Ambrose Autpert;
• Macrina the Younger, virgin;
• William John Plessington, priest and martyr

Memorial of Saints (July 18)

Pambo; Philastrius, bishop; Arnulf or Arnoul of Metz, bishop; Frederick of Utrecht, bishop and martyr; Bruno of Segni, bishop

Pambo (d. ca. 390 A.D.) was a disciple of St. Antony of the Desert in his youth. He is one of the founders of the Nitrian Desert monasteries in Egypt and was noted for his austerities, mortifications, and wisdom. He was consulted by many, incuding St. Melania the Elder, who was with him when he died.

Memorial of Saints (July 17)

Speratus and Companions, the Sicilian Martyrs; Marcellina, virgin; Ennodius, bishop; Kenelm; Leo IV, pope; Clement of Okhrida and Companions, the Seven Apostles of Bulgaria; Nerses Lampronazi, bishop; Mary Magdelen Postel

Speratus (d. 180 A.D.) was a resident in Tunisia when he was arrested for his Christian faith together with others. They were offered their freedom if they would worship pagan gods. Speratus was the spokesman of the group of seven men and five women. They refused and were beheaded. Known as the Sicilian Martyrs, the account of their martyrdom is the earliest record of martyrdom in the African Church.

Ennodius (473-521 A.D.) was married but he and his wife decided to part - she to become a nun and Ennodius to be ordained a deacon. Eventually Ennodius was appointed bishop of Ticinum in 514 A.D. He was noted for his help to the poor, the churches he built and his writings. Notable among his writings were his autobiography of St. Antoninus of Lérins, an autobiography, a handbook on rhetoric, poetry and letters.

Memorial of Saints (July 16)

Athenogenes, bishop and martyr; Eustathius of Antioch, bishop; Helier, martyr; Reineldis, virgin and martyr; Fulrad, abbot

Athenogenes (d. ca. 305 A.D.) was a bishop and theologian. He was burned to death with 10 companions at Sebaste, Armenia, during the persecution of Christians by Diocletian. Athenogenes was the author of a hymn proclaiming the divinity of the Holy Spirit.

Helier (6th century A.D.) was born at Belgium. He was raised a Christian by a priest, who was murdered by Helier's pagan father. He eventually became a hermit on the Isle of Jersey. He has been venerated in the Isle of Jersey since his murder by a band of brigands.

Memorial of Saints (July 15)

Bonaventure (died 1274 A.D.): O.F.M. minister general for 17 years; Cardinal bishop of Albano; authored biblical commentaries and many ascetical and spiritual treatises, esp Journey of the Soul into God; known as the "seraphic Doctor."

There are two stories in relation to how he got the name Bonaventure. One story tells how Maria, his mother, pleaded to St. Francis to cure the dangerous illness that Bonaventure was stricken with as a baby. Another story tells how St. Francis cured him of a mortal illness when only 4 years old. Whichever was true, what was important is that both share the legend of St. Bonaventure being healed from his ailment, and St. Francis seeing a great future for the baby and exclaimed, "O buona venture" - O good fortune! O good encounter! That was how he got the name Bonaventure.

Learn more about St. Bonaventure's writings and spirituality

also on July 15:

• James of Nisibis, bishop;
• Barhadbesaba, martyr;
• Donald;
• Swithun, bishop;
• Athanasius of Naples, bishop;
• Edith of Polesworth;
• Valdimir of Kiev;
• David of Munktorp, bishop;
• Pompilio Pirrotti

Donald (8th century A.D.) was a resident of Ogilvy in Scotland. He formed a religious group with his nine daughters after the death of his wife. They later entered a monastery at Abernethy.

15th Sunday of the Year (B)

(Edited) Reflections (from) 15th Sunday of the Year (B), July 15, 2012

Liturgical readings

Amos 7:12-15
Psalm 85
Ephesians 1:3-14
Mark 6:7-13

"Jesus summoned the Twelve and began to send them."

God sent His Son Jesus for an itinerant mission. As the Father sent Jesus, so Jesus summoned the Twelve, and sent them for the same itinerant mission. In mission, obedience and poverty Jesus sent the Twelve to preach the Good News. Those three Christian ideals can be gleaned from this Sunday's gospel. Jesus practiced them first in His life as a poor, itinerant preacher. Leading by example, He summoned the Twelve to follow Him, and they obey in zeal and poverty. It is this same missionary spirit that enkindles every missionary in the Church to go forth into the world to proclaim the Good News of God's Kingdom.

The lay faithful are also called to share in this mission. We are called to sanctify the secular realities we find ourselves in. How can we do it? By practicing a regimen of kindness with others at work, and in the streets while commuting to, and from work. Sanctification of one's secular environments is the main mission that all baptized can do in the same manner as Christ and the Twelve apostles. To sanctify means to start with our own sanctification - through sacrifices and healing experiences. This purifying process makes Christ more real and present in ourselves. The source of sanctification, and the strength to sanctify the realities around us have their rootedness in Jesus - our reason for the mission. Christ is the Life of the mission. And the mission of everyone in the Church is to share this Life.

The Christ that we share with others we receive in the Sacraments through the Church. It can be done also by joining parish-based lay ministries. These are concrete roads to make Christ known to others. But as much in classic spirituality teaches, whether it be parish-based or in the secular environments of work, prayer is always primary. Everything else is corollary. The roots of sharing God's Kingdom is one's connection to Christ in prayer. Only if we do so will all actions bear fruit in the Spirit: humility, understanding, patience, hope, and charity. This rootedness in Christ in prayer and the Sacraments is the simplest path to join the Church in mission, obedience and poverty.

Memorial of Saints (July 13)

Henry II: (died 1024 A.D.); together with his wife, St. Cunegunda, he assisted the poor; as emperor, he respected the Church’s freedom, fostering ecclesiastical and monastic reform; founded the see of Bamberg as a center for missions to the Slavs; patron of Finland and Benedictine oblates.

also on July 13:

• Silas or Silvanus;
• Maura and Brigid;
• Eugenius of Carthage, bishop;
• Mildred, virgin;
• James of Voragine, bishop;
• Francis Solano

Silas or Silvanus (1st century A.D.) was one of the leaders of the Church of Jerusalem. He went with Paul and Barnabas to Antioch to communicate the decisions of the Council of Jerusalem to the Gentile community. Tradition says that he became the first bishop of Corinth and that he died in Macedonia.

Memorial of Saints (July 12)

John Gualbert, abbot; Nabor and Felix, martyrs; Veronica; Jason, martyr; Hermagoras and Fortunatus, martyrs; John the Iberian, abbot; John Jones, priest and martyr

John Gualbert (d. 1073 A.D.) repented after revenging on the death of his brother. He became a Benedictine monk. When he felt that he was to be made abbot, he left and founded a monastery of his own at Vallombrosa, near Fiesole. He followed the primitive Rule of St. Benedict. He and his monks became known as the Vallombrosans. They stressed charity and poverty. Their way of life spread all through Italy, particularly in Tuscany and Lombardy. John Gualbert was canonized in 1193 A.D.

Memorial of Saints (July 11)

Benedict: (died 547 A.D.); wrote famous monastic Rule noted for its wisdom and moderation; founded 12 monasteries including Monte Cassino; Benedictines today number some 8,500 religious; considered the "Patriarch of Western Monasticism"; patron of Europe.

Learn more

• The Way of Integration (depth psychology based on Benedictine spirituality)
• Benedictine Reform at Cluny and other Monastic Reforms in the 10th centruty

also on July 11:

• Drostan, abbot;
• John of Bergamo, bishop;
• Hidulf, bishop;
• Olga, widow

Memorial of Saints (July 10)

on July 10:

• Rufina and Secunda, virgin and martyrs;
• Amalburga, widow;
• Amalburga, virgin;
• Antony and Theodosius of Pechersk, abbot

Rufina (d. ca. 257 A.D.) and her sister Secunda were daughters of a Roman senator. They were engaged to be married, but when the men they were engaged to be married to apostasized during the persecution of Christians under Valerian, they refused to do the same. They fled from Rome to escape the persecution. They were then captured and then beheaded for their faith.

Antony Pechersk (983-1073 A.D.) was educated to be a hermit. He went to Russia and built a hermitage at Kiev on the Dnieper River. He attracted others and thus began the Caves of Kiev - the first Russian monastery established by Russian monks for Russians. With Theodosius Pechersk, he is considered the father of Russian monasticism.

Theodosius Pechersk (d. 1074 A.D.) in about 1032 A.D. became a monk at the Caves of Kiev, founded by Antony Pechersk. When he became abbot after Barlaam, he replaced Antony's concept of monasticism based on the austerities of the Egyptian hermits with the more moderate approach of the Palestinian monks. He emphasized harmony between the active and contemplative life. During the four decades of his abbacy, the Caves of Kiev became a great monastery.

Memorial of Saints (July 9)

Augustine Zhao Kong: was a Chinese diocesan priest who was martyred with his 119 companions in 1815 A.D. Among their number was an eighteen year old boy, Chi Zhuzi, who cried out to those who had just cut off his right arm and were preparing to flay him alive: "Every piece of my flesh, every drop of my blood will tell you that I am a Christian."

also on July 9:

• Everild, virgin;
• The Martyrs of Gorkum: Nicholas Pieck, Jerome Weerden, Leonard Vechel, Nicholas Janssen, Godfrey van Duynen, John van Oosterwyk, John van Hoornaer, Adrian van Hilvarenbeek, James Lacops, Andrew Wouters, Antony van Willehad, and Nicasius van Heeze;
• Veronica Giuliani, virgin

The Martyrs of Gorkum were a group of missionaries who opposed the Calvinist forces that seized the town of Gorkum. These Calvinist forces were opposed to the Spanish rule. They seized these missionaries and subjected them to various indignities. Despite a letter from the prince of Orange ordering their release, they were hanged at deserted Ruggen Monastery on the outskirts of Briel on July 9, and their bodies were callously thrown into a ditch. They were all canonized in 1867 A.D.

Memorial of Saints (July 8)

Aquila and Prisca; Procopius, martyr; Kilian and Companions, martyrs; Withburga, virgin; Adrian III, pope; Grimbald; Sunniva and Companions; Raymund of Toulouse

Aquila (1st century A.D.) was a Jewish tentmaker. He and his wife Prisca left Rome when the Roman Emperor forbade Jews to live in Rome. Aquila and Prisca went to Corinth where they met St. Paul. Converted to the faith by St. Paul, they accompanied Paul in his mission to Ephesus. They eventually returned to Rome and made their house a church for the Christian community. Both Aquila and Prisca suffered martyrdom either in Asia Minor (according to the Roman Martyrology) or in Rome.

Procopius (d. 303 A.D.) was born at Jerusalem and became a lector, translator and exorcist when he moved to Bethsan. During the persecution of Christians under Diocletian, when he refused to sacrifice to the gods, he was beheaded. Bishop Eusebius of Caesarea called him "the Great" in the story written of him in his martyrdom.

14th Sunday of the Year (B)

(Edited) Reflections (from) 14th Sunday of the Year (B), July 8, 2012

Liturgical readings

Ezekiel 2:2-5
Psalm 123
2 Corinthians 12:7-10
Mark 6:1-6

"So much did their lack of faith distress Jesus."

In His public ministry, Jesus emphasized faith in His prophetic preaching. It is one of the themes of His proclamation at Galilee: "The time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God has come near; repent and believe in the good news." Believe in the good news! Jesus appeals to all who listen to Him to have faith in Him and the Kingdom. Not all responded in faith - as the gospel passage tells us. Those who did not respond in faith were His own countrymen. They were too familiar with Jesus' family background that they failed to see His divinity. It was this lack of faith that distressed Jesus not only in this instance, but during His entire public ministry.

Faith is a gift. And all the faithful are called to be thankful if they receive it. It helps all to know that God wills what is best for us. It also moves all to be good and to live virtuous lives in the eyes of both God and man. Furthermore, Jesus Himself says that anyone with faith can "move mountains". Faith that can move mountains begins in daily life. It means that despite all difficulties or doubts experienced, there is a knowledge that upon fulfilling the duties of one's state, will someday bring the reward God promises to us in this life and at the end. Though we do not see end, faith gives the eyes to have a glimpse of it (in prayer, the Scriptures, the Sacraments, and the events that unfold in our lives).

Faith can indeed move mountains. But we don't need this degree of faith everyday. The daily miracles of faith are those times that we continue to hang on in doing the good that we ought to do, even when the environment around us isn't. Blessed Teresa of Calcutta is our inspiration in this. She said, paraphrasing in a few words, "if others are bad, be good just the same". And St. Paul too can inspire all to always act in good faith: "The trials we have had to bear in our lives are no more than people normally have; we can trust God not to let us be tried beyond our strength; and with any trial He will give us a way out of it and the strength to bear it." (1 Cor 10:11-13).

Memorial of Saints (July 6)

Maria Goretti: (died 1902 A.D.) at age 12; born near Ancona; she was stabbed to death, preferring to die than be raped alive; with her mother present, she was canonized in 1950 A.D. before the largest crowd ever assembled in Rome for a canonization; patroness of teenage girls.

also on July 6:

• Romulus of Fiesole, bishop and martyr;
• Dominica, virgin and martyr;
• Sisoes;
• Goar;
• Sexburga, widow;
• Modwenna, virgin;
• Godelva, martyr

Sexburga (d. ca. 699 A.D.) is the daughter of King Anna of the East Angles and sister of Sts. Etheldreda, Ethelburga, Erconwald, and Withburga. She married King Erconbert in 640 A.D. In 664 A.D., her husband died but she finished Minster Monastery, which she had founded on Sheppey Island. She then went to Ely Abbey to succeed her sister Etheldreda as abbess there. It was here where she died.

Memorial of Saints (July 5)

Anthony Zaccaria (died 1539 A.D.): at Cremona at age 36; doctor turned priest; popular preacher who founded in Milan the Clerics Regular of St. Paul (Barnabites) for the reform of society (1530 A.D.); today they number some 400 members; sought collaboration between the clergy and the laity; promoted frequent communion.

also on July 5: Athanasius the Athonite, abbot

Memorial of Saints (July 4)

Elizabeth of Portugal: (died 1336; named after her great-aunt, St. Elizabeth of Hungary (died 1231 A.D.); queen and mother; lover of the poor; peacemaker in the royal family; later a Franciscan tertiary; patroness of Catholic Action.

also on July 4:

• Bertha, widow;
• Andrew of Crete, bishop;
• Odo of Canterbury, bishop;
• Ulric of Augsburg, bishop

Memorial of Saints (July 3)

Thomas: (died 1st c. A.D.); his doubting gave way to faith when he saw the risen Lord; associated with founding the Church in south India; mentioned in the Roman Canon; patron of builders, India and Pakistan.

also on July 3:

• Leo II, pope and confessor;
• Anatolius, bishop;
• Irenaeus and Mustiola, martyrs;
• Julius and Aaron, martyrs;
• Heliodorus, bishop;
• Anatolius of Constantinople, bishop;
• Rumold or Rombaut, martyr;
• Bernardino Realino.

Leo II (d. 683 A.D.) was a eloquent preacher, was interested in music, and was known for his concern for the poor. He condemned monothelitism and censured Pope Honorius I for not formally condemning the heresy.

Anatolius (d. ca. 283 A.D.) was renowned as a philosopher, scientist, and mathematician, and was head of the Aristotelian school in Alexandria. He went to Palestine, where he was assistant to the bishop of Caesarea, and in 269 A.D. he was chosen bishop of Laodicea, Syria.

Bernardino Realino, (1530-1616 A.D.), was a lawwyer and then at 34 years old joined the Jesuits. He was engaged in pastoral work and also became a rector. His reputation for holiness increased as he grew older. His blood, which came from an unhealed wound before his death, was collected in vials and remained in a liquid state. He was canonized in 1947 A.D. by Pope Pius XII.

Memorial of Saints (July 2)

• Processus and Martinian, martyrs;
• Monegundis, widow;
• Otto of Bamberg, bishop

Processus and Martinian, according to pious stories, were the wardens of Peter and Paul when the two apostles were in Mammertine Prison in Rome. Both wardens were converted by the apostles, were tortured by their superior when they would not sacrifice to Jupiter. They were both sworded to death.

Monegundis (d. 570 A.D.) was married with two children. When her two children died she became a recluse, with her husband's permission, in a cell in Chartres, France. She moved to Tours and attracted numerous disciples. After her death many miracles were reported at her tomb.

Otto of Bamberg (d. 1139 A.D.) was ordained at a young age. In 1124 A.D., at the invitation of Boleslaus III of Poland, he headed a group of missionaries to eastern Pomerania, where they made thousands of converts. He was canonized in 1189 A.D.

Memorial of Saints (July 1)

• Shenute, abbot;
• Theodoric or Thierry, abbot;
• Carilefus or Calais, abbot;
• Gall of Clermont, bishop;
• Eparchius or Cybard;
• Simeon Salus;
• Serf or Servanus, bishop;
• Oliver Plunkett, bishop and martyr

Shenute (d. ca. 450 A.D.) became a monk at the double monastery at Dair-al-Abiad near Atripe in the Thebaid and succeeded his Uncle Bhol, who had founded the abbey as abbot. He was a leader in the development of monastic communal life and in time was regarded as archimandrite of all the surrounding monasteries. He wrote extensively and is believed to have died when he was 118.

Theodoric (died 533 A.D.) was born in Rheims, Gaul, married against his will, and persuaded his wife to agree to a separation. He became a priest, founded a religious community, became known for his conversions, and reportedly cured King Theodoric of ophthalmia.

Carilefus (d. ca. 540 A.D.) became a monk at Menat Monastery near Riom, France with his friend St. Avitus. They transferred to Micy abbey, were both ordained, and then Carilefus went to Maine to become a hermit. His holiness attracted followers. He organized them into a monastery where he became its abbot.

Oliver Plunket (1629-81 A.D.) was ordained in 1654 A.D. He was a professor of theology, was consultor of the Sacred Congregation of the Index, and was procurator for the Irish bishops. In 1669 A.D., he was named archbishop of Armagh and Primate of All Ireland. Because of the persecution of Catholics, he was imprisoned on charges of conspiring to bring about a rebellion against the British crown. Convicted of high treason, he was hanged, drawn and quartered on July 1, 1681 A.D.