Memorial of Saints (October 31)

Feasts, Obligatory and Optional Memorials of Saints

• Wolfgang
• Foillan
• Quentin

St. Wolfgang became a Benedictine at Einsiedeln and was ordained in 971 A.D.

St. Follian and his brothers built a monastery in England and worked as missionaries among the East Angles.

St. Quentin went to Gaul as a missionary and settled at Amiens in Picardy.

Learn more

This day in Catholic Church history (October 31).

• Martin Luther, former monk of the Augustinian Order, posted his 95 Theses on the door of the castle Church in Wittenberg
• These theses questioned the abuses in the sale of indulgences at that time
• October 31, 1517 A.D., is traditionally recognized as the beginning of the Protestant Reformation

The Protestant Reformation and the Catholic Counter-Reformation

• Voices of the Protestant Reformation:
• Martin Luther,
• John Huss,
• Erasmus,
• Servetus,
• Zwingli,
• and Calvin
• Voices of the Counter-Reformation:
• St. Teresa of Avila,
• St. John of the Cross,
• St. Ignatius of Loyola,
• St. Bernardine of Siena,
• St. John of Capistrano,
• Benedictines of Bursfeld and Melk Congregations
• the Dominican Lombard Congregation;
• and many Augustinian monasteries
• Learn more

• Saints and Leaders of the Counter Reformation, Learn more

Memorial of Saints (October 30)

Feasts, Obligatory and Optional Memorials of Saints for October 30, Learn more

• Serapion of Antioch, bishop;
• Marcellus, martyr;
• Asterius, bishop;
• Germanus of Capua, bishop;
• Ethelnoth, bishop;
• Alphonsus Rodriguez

St. Alphonsus Rodriguez (1533-1617 A.D.) was the son of a wealthy merchant at Segovia, Spain. Bl. Peter Favre, one of the original nine members of the Society of Jesus, and who was a close friend of his father, prepared Alphonsus for first communion. Alphonsus was sent to Alcala to study under the Jesuits. He returned to Segovia upon the death of his father to oversee the family business. He got married but when his wife passed away, he sold the business. When his son also died several years later, he applied to the Society of Jesus. He was not admitted at Segovia. He went back to grade school and by a special ruling of the provincial was admitted to the Jesuits as a lay brother. After final vows, he served in the lowly post of hall porter at Montesion College on Majorca. Known for his holiness, he was consulted by both the learned and the simple. St. Peter Claver was under Alphonsus' guidance while a student at Montesion. St. Alphonsus suffered ill health the last years of his life until he died on November 1. He was canonized together with Peter Claver in 1888 A.D. by Pope Leo XIII.

Related blog posts:

• St. Ignatius of Loyola, Priest and Founder of the Society of Jesus, Learn more
• "Hearts on Fire: Praying with Jesuits", Learn more

The prayer of St. Alphonsus Rodriguez in the book, "Hearts on Fire":

"Lord, show me your ways".

His three brief aspirations:

"Lord, let me know you, let me know myself.
Lord, you do your will and not mine.
I'm just coming, Lord."

Memorial of Saints (October 29)

Feasts, Obligatory and Optional Memorials of Saints

• Narcissus of Jerusalem, bishop;
• Theuderius or Chef, abbot;
• Colman of Kilmacduagh, bishop;
• Abraham of Rostov, abbot

St. Narcissus of Jerusalem (d. ca. 215 A.D.) was a Greek and was named bishop of Jerusalem when he was 80 years old. Because he was strict in his discipline, his opponents denounced him at the Council of Jerusalem. He lived for a time as a hermit, returned to his see, and was persuaded to resume his office as bishop by the faithful of the city. He appointed St. Alexander his coadjutor, who stated that St. Narcissus was 116 years old in 212 A.D.

Related blog posts:

St. Narcissus of Jerusalem is one of the Saints of the Church who lived past 100 years. Below is a study of Saints who are also centenarian. A simple analysis of their longevity is made in Part Four of this Series.

• Saints Who Lived to 100 Years or More (Part One), Learn more
• Saints Who Lived to 100 Years or More (Part Two), Learn more
• Saints Who Lived to 100 Years or More (Part Three), Learn more
• Saints Who Lived to 100 Years or More (Part Four), Learn more

St. Abraham of Rostov (12th century A.D.) was born of pagan parents near Galick and was known to have been cured of a disease as a young man when he called upon God of the Christian religion. He was baptized and became a monk. He went to Rostov, Russia, to preach the gospel and founded a monastery where he became abbot. He built two churches and was effective in the work of conversion.

Asceticism and Purgation in Christian Mysticism

Introduction

One of the foundations of Christian mystical practice is asceticism and purgation. The term asceticism comes from the Greek word askêsis - meaning any kind of physical training, as what athletes before sports competition do.

During the era of the Church Fathers (the Patristic period of Christian history), Christians began to use the word askêsis to refer to the spiritual practices of self-denial and preparation for religious life. Asceticism is seen as a preparation for mystical grace and the first step to union with God. Examples of ascetical practices are various forms of self-denial: denial of bodily pleasure: from food, conjugal relations, sleep, and possessions.

Purgation

Purgation is a deeper stage in ascetical practice. Because God in His Divinity is all-good, all-pure, and all-perfect, any human being can purify himself if he wants to approach the Lord in prayer. In this sense, purgation of the exterior and interior person is not just a preparation, but an essential condition of being for anyone who seeks God in life.

Spiritual programs of asceticism

Detailed programs of ascetical life are connected with specialized forms of religious life. This began with the cenobytes of the desert in the fourth century A.D. When these cenobytes evolved into a more organized monastic ascetical order, they progressed into the religious asceticism of the Friars and the Beguines of the 13th century A.D. Ascetical practices at this historical stage became complex. But in whatever form ascetics practice, whether simple or complex, asceticism remains an important key to understanding Christian mysticism.

5 Primary sources on the ideal of asceticism and purgation

There are five spiritual works which can help understand asceticism/purgation and mysticism.

• One source is (1) "The Life of St. Antony", written by St. Athanasius of Alexandria - a writing that came from the mid-fourth century A.D.
• Another is the (2) "Praktikos" by Evagrius Ponticus - written at the end of the fourth century A.D.
• A third source is (3) "The Life of Mary of Oignies", by James of Vitry. This is a classic account of extreme asceticism by one of the early Beguines.
• Finally, two early-modern mystics, who develop the spiritual meaning of purgation, are: St. Catherine of Genoa, and St. John of the Cross. St. Catherine wrote (4) "Purgation and Purgatory",
• while St. John of the Cross wrote (5) "The Ascent of Mount Carmel".

Mysticism and Catholic spirituality in modern times

Catholic spirituality encompasses many states of life (celibate, married, priestly, religious). Catholic spirituality engages the person in relationship with God and others through prayer and active life. What makes mystical spirituality deeper is its way of relating with God. The Christian mystic's prayer and active life is one of intensity in simplicity. Mysticism today is often regarded as contemplation. Jesuit theologian Karl Rahner views it as a common and normal activity for most contemplatives-in-action - those who live an intense prayer life in their work.

Memorial of Saints (October 28)

Feasts, Obligatory and Optional Memorials of Saints

• St. Simon, apostle
• St. Jude, apostle
• Anastasia and Cyril, martyrs;
• Fidelis of Como, martyr;
• Salvius or Saire;
• Faro, bishop

Simon (died 1st c. A.D.): called the "Canaanite" and also "the Zealot," an anti-Roman party; possibly preached in Egypt and Persia; mentioned in the Roman canon.

Jude, or Thaddeus ("Courageous") (died 1st c. A.D.): may have preached in Palestine and Persia; mentioned in the Roman Canon; patron of those in despair, or in hopeless situations (perhaps because of the similarity of his name with that of Judas Iscariot, who betrayed Jesus and despaired.)

St. Faro (d. ca. 672 A.D.) was the brother of St. Chainoaldus and St. Burgundofara. He married. When he was thirty-five, he and his wife, by agreement, separated, and in time he became a monk at Meaux. He was ordained and about ca. 628 A.D., he was named bishop of Meaux. He was noted for his aid to the needy and for the many conversions he accomplished.

Memorial of Saints (October 27)

Feasts, Obligatory and Optional Memorials of Saints

• Frumentius, bishop;
• Otteran or Odhran, abbot

St. Frumentius (d. ca. 380 A.D.), his brother Aedesius and their teacher Meropius were able to survive being killed by natives when their ship stopped off at Ethiopia. They were taken to the King and made members of his court. Upon the death of the King, they were given back their freedom and helped the widowed Queen rule the country. They introduced Christianity and brought in traders from the West. When the King's sons came of age, Frumentius and Aedesius resigned their posts and Aedesius went back to Tyre where he was ordained. Frumentius on the other hand went to Alexandria to ask St. Athanasius to send a missionary to the country he had just left. St. Athanasius consecrated Frumentius bishop of the Ethiopians and sent him back. Back in Ethiopia, St. Frumentius made numerous converts including the two sons of the King.

Related blog post

• St. Athanasius of Alexandria, Archbishop who consecrated St. Frumentius, Learn more

30th Sunday of the Year (B)

(Edited) Reflections for 30th Sunday of the Year (B), October 28, 2012
Jeremiah 31:7-9
Psalm 126
Hebrews 5:1-6
Mark 10:46-52

To be posted and published soon.

Memorial of Saints (October 26)

Feasts, Obligatory and Optional Memorials of Saints

• Lucian and Marcian, martyrs;
• Rusticus of Narbonne, bishop;
• Cedd, bishop;
• Eata, bishop;
• Bean, bishop

St. Rusticus of Narbonne (d. ca. 461 A.D.) became a well-known preacher in Rome before he became a monk at Lérins. He was ordained and made bishop of Narbonne in 427 A.D. St. Rusticus wanted to resign because of internal conflicts among the orthodox of his see and the spread of Arianism in the wake of a Gothic siege. However, Pope Leo I dissuaded Rusticus. Rusticus attended the synod at Arles which approved St. Leo's Epistola dogmatica that denounced Nestorianism.

(Nestorianism claimed that there were two distinct persons in Christ - one human, the other divine. The Church, however, held the orthodox claim that Christ was a divine person who assumed a human nature). St. Celestine I held a council in Rome in 430 A.D. to condemn the Nestorian heresy. It was finally achieved in the General Council of Ephesus in 431 A.D. - which formally condemned Nestorianism. Despite being officially condemned by the Catholic Church, Nestorianism persisted in its influence. Learn more.

Crossing the Threshold of Hope

Book: "Crossing the Threshold of Hope", a compiled text of the interview made with John Paul II by Vittorio Messori.

The book explains with clarity important truths of the Catholic faith. It is composed of responses made by St. John Paul II to the interview of Vittorio Messori.

Issues addressed by the competent authority of John Paul II

Issues relevant to our contemporary times are made clearer by the Pope's citation of truths based on Scriptures and Tradition. Much of the concerns and moral issues that are plaguing the Church at present, which are making it difficult for bringing more members, are the scandals which the late Holy Father discusses.

To get an idea of the topics in the book, here is a list of the titles:

• "The Pope": A Scandal and a Mystery
• Praying: How and Why
• How Does the Pope Pray?
• Does God Really Exist?
• "Proof": Is it Still Valid?
• If God Exists Why Is He Hiding
• Is Jesus the Son of God
• What Has Become of the "History of Salvation"?
• The Centrality of Salvation
• Why is There So Much Evil in the World?
• Why Does God Tolerate Suffering?
• What Does "To Save" Mean?
• Why So Many Religions?
• Buddha?
• Muhammad?
• Judaism?
• A Minority by the Year 2000
• What is the "New Evangelization"?
• Is there Really Hope in the Young?
• Was God at Work in the Fall of Communism
• Is Only Rome Right?
• In Search of Lost Unity
• Why Divided?
• The Church and the Council
• A "Dialogue of Salvation"
• A Qualitative Renewal
• The Reaction of the "World"
• Does "Eternal Life" Exist?
• What is the Use of Believing?
• Human Rights
• The Defense of Every Life
• The Mother of God
• Women
• "Be Not Afraid"
• Crossing the Threshold of Hope

Learn more about the life and mission of St. John Paul II. Check the list of his life and work from 1920, his birth, until 2005, his death.

Memorial of Saints (October 25)

Feasts, Obligatory and Optional Memorials of Saints

• Chrysanthus and Daria, martyrs;
• Crispin and Crispinian, martyrs;
• Fronto and George, bishops;
• Gaudentius, bishop

St. Gaudentius (d. ca. 410 A.D.) was a native of Brescia, Italy. He studied under St. Philastrius, went on a pilgrimage to Jerusalem, and then became a monk at Caesarea in Cappadocia. He eventually succeeded St. Philastrius as bishop of Brescia despite his own objections, and was consecrated by St. Ambrose in ca. 387 A.D. Together with two other bishops, he was sent by Pope Innocent I to defend St. John Chrysostom, but they were imprisoned. Eventually, the three bishops were given freedom with St. Gaudentius returning to Italy where he died.

Related blog posts:

• On June 24, 404 A.D., Emperor Arcadius ordered St. John of Chrysostom into exile at Cucusus, Armenia, despite the support of the people of Constantinople, Pope Innocent I, and the whole western Church., (Learn more about St. John of Chrysostom and the historical context in which St. Gaudentius of Brescia was involved)

Memorial of Saints (October 24)

Feasts, Obligatory and Optional Memorials of Saints

• Anthony Claret
• Felix of Thibiuca, bishop and martyr;
• Proclus, bishop;
• Aretas and the martyrs of Najran and Elesbaan;
• Senoch, abbot;
• Martin or Mark;
• Maglorius or Maelor, bishop;
• Martin of Vertou, abbot;
• Ebregislus or Evergislus, bishop

St. Anthony Claret: (died 1870 A.D.); from Catalonia; vigorous reforming bishop of Santiago, Cuba; founded (1849 A.D.) the Missionary Sons of the Immaculate Heart of Mary (Claretians), today numbering about 2,900 members; fostered credit unions and the apostolic press.

St. Maglorius, or Maelor (d. ca. 586 A.D.) was born at Glamorgan, Wales. He became a disciple of St. Samson and accompanied him to the mission in Britanny. St. Maglorius eventually succeeded St. Samson as bishop of Dol. When he reached old age, he resigned his office of bishop to live as a hermit on Sark. At Sark, when he miraculously cured a chieftain from a skin disease, the chieftain gave him property. St. Maglorius used this property to found and build a monastery. He ministered to the people in the area during famine and plague and reportedly performed many miracles.

Memorial of Saints (October 23)

Feasts, Obligatory and Optional Memorials of Saints

• Theodoret, martyr;
• Severinus or Seurin, martyr;
• Severinus Boethius, martyr;
• Romanus of Rouen, bishop;
• Ignatius of Constantinople, bishop;
• Allucio
• John of Capistrano

John of Capistrano (died 1456 A.D.): OFM; reformer of the Franciscans and Poor Clares; preached devotion to the Holy Name of Jesus; sought an end to the Western Schism; animated resistance against the Turks at the battle of Belgrade (1456 A.D.); patron of military chaplains.

Related blog posts:

• St. Clare of Assisi, Foundress of the Poor Clares, Learn more
• St. Anthony of Padua, Franciscan and 1 of 3 Franciscan Doctors of the Church, Learn more

St. Allucio (d. ca. 1134 A.D.) was a shepherd in Pescia, Tuscany, Italy. He became director of the almshouse in Valdi Nievole and built shelters at river crossings and mountain passes. These were run by young men who became known as the Brothers of St. Allucio. St. Allucio's cult was approved by Pope Pius IV.

Memorial of Saints (October 22)

Feasts, Obligatory and Optional Memorials of Saints

• John Paul II
• Abercius, bishop;
• Philip of Heraclea, bishop, and Companions, martyrs;
• Mallonius or Mellon, bishop;
• Nunilo and Alodia, virgins and martyrs;
• Donatus of Fiesole, bishop

On the Life and Mission of St. John Paul II

• 1920-1939 A.D., Learn more
• 1939-1969 A.D., Learn more
• 1969-1978 A.D., Learn more
• 1978-1980 A.D., Learn more
• 1981-1985 A.D., Learn more
• 1986-1990 A.D., Learn more
• 1991-1995 A.D., Learn more
• 1996-2000 A.D., Learn more
• 2001-2005 A.D., Learn more

More resources on the life and work of St. John Paul II

• Books and references used for the abovementioned blog posts, Learn more
• "A Gift of Enduring Love", by Joseph Durepos, Learn more

Memorial of Saints (October 21)

Feasts, Obligatory and Optional Memorials of Saints

• Hilarion, abbot;
• Malchus;
• Fintan or Munnu of Taghmon, abbot;
• Condedus;
• John of Bridlington

St. John Thwing a.k.a. John of Bridlington (1319-1379 A.D.) was born at Thwing, near Bridlington, England. After studying at Oxford he became a Canon Regular of St. Augustine. He filled various positions and in time was elected prior, a position he held for seventeen years until his death. He was canonized by Pope Boniface IX in 1401 A.D. and is the patron saint of women in difficult labor.

29th Sunday of the Year (B)

(Edited) Sunday reflections (from) liturgical years 2014 (A), 2015 (B), and 2016 (C)

October 18, 2015
Liturgical readings
Isaiah 53:10-11
Psalm 33
Hebrews 4:14-16
Mark 10:35-45

"Anyone who wants to rank first must serve the needs of all."

There arose a feeling of indignation among the apostles. The reason is clear. James and John approached Jesus, and requested that they be sitted, one at His right, and the other at His left (when He comes into His glory). The action of James and John caused the others to react against the two brothers' ambitions. To remedy the situation, Jesus called all of them, and emphasized the priority of service above positions of honor and authority. The Lord's own words and deeds since the beginning of His public ministry attest to this teaching. Jesus began as a poor, itinerant preacher, who went about many villages to heal the sick, to reconcile sinners back to God, and to give hope to families by raising many dead back to life. And He continued to be so up to this point with James and John and the other apostles.

This example par excellance of Jesus' servant leadership in biblical times can be inculturated in any state of life. Even lay people are called to serve others in positions of leadership in work, family or community. These positions have their own specific difficulties, distinct from the clergy and the religious, but it is a Christian commitment just the same. It takes the grace and strength of Christ in the Sacraments, and a daily commitment to do God's will, that makes the good of Christian service clearly seen in secular realities where the clergy or religious cannot witness to. The laity can and should witness Christ in all or such situtations as: practicing an accounting or engineering profession, faithfully working as a paid employee, rearing up children as a widow, exercising one's leadership as CEO of a big corporation, managing a small business, defending the rights of the oppressed as a local politician...

The commitment to serve in many situations in which the lay people find themselves can be just as difficult and demanding. But St. Paul in his letter to the Romans is a source of strength and courage:

Suffering produces endurance, and endurance produces character, and character produces hope, and hope does not disappoint us, because God's love has been poured into our hearts through the Holy Spirit which has been given to us. (Romans 5:3-5)

This wisdom of Christian service is witnessed by the Eucharistic community. It is a wisdom not as welcomed by non-Catholics or non-Christians. They would not naturally see its value because many value the wisdom of power without service in the world. This was what James and John were tempted to do. But this direction creates division and can be both destructive and self-destructive. Jesus protects His apostles from falling into this temptation. He calls James and John and all His apostles to follow His Wisdom: a higher Wisdom that values self-denial above self-interest, mercy above justice based only on laws, and the love of God above all things. It is a Wisdom also for lay people. They to are to bring this Wisdom to others: in the very realities they work and live. The laity are called to make a world intent on power without service imbued with the strong light, fullness and order of Christian service in leadership.

Memorial of Saints (October 20)

Feasts, Obligatory and Optional Memorials of Saints

• Caprasius, martyr;
• Artemius, martyr;
• Acca, bishop;
• Andrew of Crete, martyr;
• Maria Bertilla (Ann Francis Boscardin), virgin

Memorial of Saints (October 19)

Feasts, Obligatory and Optional Memorials of Saints

• John de Brebeuf, Isaac Jogues and companions
• Paul of the Cross, priest;
• Peter of Alcantara, confessor;
• Ptolemaeus and Lucius, martyrs;
• Cleopatra, widow, and Varus;
• Ethbin;
• Aquilinus, bishop;
• Frideswide, virgin;
• Philip Howard, martyr

John de Brebeuf, Isaac Jogues and companions: French Jesuit and oblate missionaries to the Hurons and Iroquois of North America, (died 1642-1649 A.D.); Isaac was tomahawked to death by Iroquois on 18 Oct. 1646 A.D. near Albany; John was savagely mutilated and slain 16 Mar. 1649 A.D. near Georgian Bay; other martyrs were Antony Daniel, Gabriel Lalemant, Charles Garnier, Noel Chabanel and oblates Rene Goupil and Jean de la Lande; secondary patrons of Canada.

The Jesuit martyrs St. Isaac Jogues, Jean de Brebeuf, and their companions, were among the many who ministered to the spiritual and temporal needs of the native Americans. These early founding fathers and other missionaries also helped establish French Catholic outposts on the Great Lakes and down through the Ohio and Mississippi valleys, ('History of Catholic Church in America', Learn more)

Memorial of Saints (October 18)

Feasts, Obligatory and Optional Memorials of Saints

• Luke, apostle and evangelist
• Justus of Beauvais, martyr

Luke (died 1st c. A.D.): Syrian physician from Antioch and companion of Paul; authored c. 70-85 A.D. Acts of the Apostles and the gospel for the gentile Christians; it speaks of God's mercy, universal salvation, love of the poor and marginalized, absolute renunciation, prayer and the Holy Spirit; represented by a winged ox (cf. Ezekiel 1); patron of the medical profession, painters, artists, sculptors and butchers.

The gospel of Luke is often referred to by post-Vatican II bible scholars as a two volume book known as Luke-Acts. The author of the gospel is also the author of the Acts of the Apostles. When reading both books, one can see the missionary works of Jesus continued by the missionary works of His followers. The apostles and St. Paul continue the mission of Jesus in the book of Acts. Learn more

Memorial of Saints (October 17)

Feasts, Obligatory and Optional Memorials of Saints

• Ignatius of Antioch
• John the Dwarf;
• Anstrudis or Anstrude, virgin;
• Nothelm, bishop;
• Seraphino, confessor

Ignatius: (died c. 107 A.D.) under Trajan in Rome's amphitheater; from Syria; Apostolic Father known as the second successor of St. Peter in Antioch; wrote seven letters to local communities on church unity and structure, esp. the monoepiscopacy; first to use the term "Catholic Church" as a collective designation for Christians; mentioned in the Roman Canon.

St. Anstrudis (died ca. 700 A.D.) succeeded her mother as abbess of a Laon abbey. She incurred the enmity of mayor Ebroin because she opposed him when her brother Baldwin was murdered. She was subjected to many harrassments until Bl. Pepin of Landen put her under his protection.

In Search of True Wisdom

In Search of True Wisdom: Visits to Eastern Spiritual Fathers, by Sergius Bolshakoff and M. Basil Pennington, OCSO

Introduction:

Christian spiritual tradition has a basic core of values and an essential body of truths, that even the major rifts in theological understanding between the West and the East in the Eastern schism of 1054 A.D., has not changed radically the common understanding of God and the tradition of prayer between them. Though the East has separated from the Catholic West because of a theological dispute in the role of the Holy Spirit, the Orthodox Church in the East, which grew and developed since that schism, continued in its spiritual traditions. These traditions have remained mostly unchanged due to the monks who preserved the religious practices associated with it. A book that can be read in relation spirituality of the Eastern Christian Church is "In Search of True Wisdom: Visits to Eastern Spiritual Fathers" by Sergius Bolshakoff. The author, Bro. Sergius, writes this book and speaks of his experiences of learning the spiritual wisdom of the Eastern fathers and monks.

Bro. Sergius Bolshakoff

As a young man in 1919 A.D., Sergius did not want to do anything with the Bolsheviks of Russia. He settled in Estonia to pursue an education in engineering. While studying to be an engineer, he discovered and met Russian Catholics and their communities outside Russia. An inspiration led him to conceive a work for the unity of these Russian Christians in the face of the Bolshevik influence. Seeking advice, he was told to learn more of his own Orthodox tradition. He began to pursue theological studies at Pskovo-Petchersky Monastery. The situation at that monastery led him to live in the West, at the newly established Latin-Byzantine Benedictine Monastery at Amay - modern-day Chevtogne.

Over the course of years, Sergius became convinced that his life is to be spent in the cause of Church unity. Christians of both the East and West, especially monks, need to share from the experience of each other's community's life and search for God, the source of all unity. And so, in England, on December 27, 1928 A.D., in the Anglican Benedictine Monastery of Nashdown, Bro. Sergius made a lifetime commitment [in the hands of the Orthodox Bishop of Berlin, Tikhon Ljoshenko] to seek perfection according to the Rule of Saint Benedict as a lay oblate and to work for Christian unity.

This profession was quite extraordinary, since it was the first time an Orthodox had committed himself to the Rule of the Patriarch of Western monasticism because the Benedictine monasteries on Mount Athos died out, in the thirteenth century.

A travelogue of interviews with wise and holy monks

Bro. Sergius' lifetime commitment led him in a road untravelled - one where he would visit the old monasteries in the East, particularly within and around Russia - listening and learning from the old and holy monks about a spirituality that is rooted in the classic and sound traditions of Orthodoxy. This book by Bro. Sergius is very interesting: both in the personages that are featured [the old holy monks], and in the spiritual teaching they impart from both learning and experience.

One great teaching these monks commonly share about is the "Jesus Prayer", a prayer that can be used as a mantra in one's meditation or prayers. This is the prayer:

"Lord Jesus Christ, Son of God, have mercy on me, a sinner."

In one of his interviews with the holy monks, Bro. Sergius learned that the "Jesus Prayer" is the duty of all Orthodox and should not be neglected. The prayer must not only be prayed externally but also interiorly in mind, heart and soul.

Bro. Sergius teaches how to begin the practice of the Jesus Prayer:

• one must first lead a wise and abstentious life, avoiding all luxuries and all carnal pleasure
• one must watch over one's sense of sight, hearing, and other senses and limit speech to the needful
• one must learn to live in true solitude: the ascesis of solitude of the heart and a true seclusion while still living in the world
• one must master one's passions
• one must do penance and have a true sorrow for one's sins
• one must have deep humility, humble wisdom, setting one's neighbor's good before one's own, have evangelical love of neighbor, desire to be unknown and to leave behind worldly vanity

The book is a treasure of great spiritual teachings from the Eastern saints - who have been very contemplative and have led lives of intense prayer and solitude. To have more ideas of what this book contains, the following list enumerates the travels Bro. Sergius made and the holy persons whom he had the privilege to interview about Eastern Orthodox spirituality:

• At the Lavra of Saint Alexander Nevsky: Father Sergius
• In the Tradition of Bishop Ignatius: Hierodeacon Isaya Bobinin
• Father Theophan and the Pskovo-Petchersky Monastery
• Hieromonk Dorofey of Konevitsa: The First Steps on the Spiritual Journey
• In the Far North: Hieromonk John of Petchenga
• Hegumen John, Exiled from Solitude
• The Tradition of Valaam: Hieroschimonk Luke
• The Recluse of Uusi Valamo: Hieroschimonk Michael
• Archimandrite Ilian, Hegumen of Aghios Panteleimonos
• A Good Monk at Dionysiou: Father Euthemios
• A Monk in Exile: Father Tikhon Voinov
• The Young Elder: Archimandrite Aimilianos
• Stavronkikita: Father Paisios and Archimandrite Vasileios
• Archimandrite Sophrony: Disciple of Father Silouan
• Mount Athos in Boston: Archimandrite Panteleimon
• A Noble Spiritual Mother: Mother Alexandra

As regards Russian Orthodox terms which are particular to Orthodox spiritual tradition, there is a glossary at the back of the book which defines and describes the meaning of these terms which are not known as well to Western Catholics. There is also a map of the Russian mainland to help locate certain places where the mentioned monasteries are built. The book is not only spiritually enriching because of the depth of spiritual insights, but also entertaining since it gives vivid imagery of the Russian countryside, the freshness and tranquillity of the Finnish lakes, the vastness of the forests, the giant conifers and many more.

Memorial of Saints (October 16)

Feasts, Obligatory and Optional Memorials of Saints

• Martinian and Companions and Maxima;
• Gall;
• Mommolinus, bishop;
• Bercharius, abbot;
• Lull, bishop;
• Anastasius of Cluny;
• Bertrand of Comminges, bishop;
• Gerard Majella

St. Anastasius of Cluny (ca. 1020-1085) was born in Venice, became a monk at Mont St. Michel, then left to live as a hermit on an island off the coast of Normandy. About 1066 A.D. St. Hugh convinced him to be a monk at Cluny. After seven years, Pope St. Gregory VII sent him on a mission in Spain. He spent the last years of his life as a hermit near Toulouse.

St. Gerard Majella (1726-1755 A.D.) was born in Muro in southern Italy. He joined the Redemptorists as a lay brother in 1748 A.D. and was professed by its founder, St. Alphonsus Liguori, in 1752 A.D. As a tailor and infirmarian in the Redemptorist community, he was known for his spiritual gifts of bilocation, prophecy, ecstasies, visions and infused knowledge. In the last few months of his life, he raised funds for new buildings at Caposele, where he died from consumption. Canonized in 1904, he is the patron of childbirth.

More on Saints: October 16

Memorial of Saints (October 15)

Feasts, Obligatory and Optional Memorials of Saints

• Teresa of Avila, virgin and doctor of the Church;
• Leonard of Vandoeuvre, abbot;
• Thecla of Kitzingen, virgin;
• Euthymius the Younger, abbot

A popular prayer of St. Teresa of Avila

Let nothing disturb thee,
Nothing affright thee;
All things are passing;
God never changeth;
Patient endurance
Attaineth to all things;
Who God possesseth
In nothing is wanting;
Alone God sufficeth.

This prayer of St. Teresa of Avila is found in her breviary. Learn more

On the Life, Writings and Spirituality of St. Teresa of Avila, virgin and Doctor Learn more

St. Teresa of Avila was also one of the leaders of the Counter-Reformation together with St. John of the Cross, St. Ignatius of Loyola, and the leaders of the French School of Spirituality.

Related blog posts:

• The Reformation and Counter-Reformation, Learn more
• Saints and Leaders of the Counter-Reformation, Learn more

Memorial of Saints (October 14)

Feasts, Obligatory and Optional Memorials of Saints

• Justus of Lyons, bishop;
• Manechildis, virgin;
• Angadrisma or Angadrême, virgin;
• Burchard, bishop;
• Dominic Lauricatus

Callixtus I (died 222 A.D.): incurred ire of Tertullian and Hippolytus (13 Aug) over lapsi controversy; organized the first official Christian cemetery in Rome and instituted Ember day fasts.

28th Sunday of the Year (B)

(Edited) Sunday reflections (from) liturgical years 2014 (A), 2015 (B), and 2016 (C)

October 11, 2015
Liturgical readings
Wisdom 7:7-11
Psalm 90
Hebrews 4:12-13
Mark 10:17-30

"With God all things are possible."

A rich man asked the Lord what he must do to share in everlasting life. Jesus answered him: "You know the commandments: 'you shall not kill; you shall not commit adultery; you shall not steal; you shall not bear false witness; you shall not defraud; honor your father and your mother.'" (all commandments taken from the Decalogue handed to the Israelite people through the prophet Moses). The man then said: "Teacher, I have observed all these since my childhood." And then Jesus replied: "There is one thing more you must do ... sell what you have, give to the poor ... after that, come and follow me."

This gospel passage can serve as a tool for any important decision in life - most especially in a discernment process. It can bring light and understanding for anyone seeking to do God's will in his Christian life. St. Francis de Sales, a bishop and doctor of the Church, writes that there are four options in life that need more discernment. The first and most important of these four, is choosing one's vocation in life. The rich man in the gospel was given that option. He can follow Jesus where Jesus is, (and headed), or he can obey God's commandments where he already is. Where Jesus is and headed, is perfect charity; and where the man is, is the opportunity to sanctify better the realities wherein he stewards his material resources responsibly and charitably.

The man in the gospel was invited by Christ to a life of perfect charity - (not the basic charity of giving to the collection bag at the Eucharist, or to someone knocking at your gate), but one that involved one's whole being. However, as St. Francis de Sales counsels, charity can be practiced in all walks of life. As soldiers, craftsmen, statesmen, and servants; the widowed, married, and single. (This he counsels in his book, Introduction to the Devout Life.) This charity begins in the heart. When God becomes the center of one's heart, then God and His love dwells in him. He awakens all and calls each one personally. The quality of one's response to God's call produces a practice of charity to the best of one's strengths, abilities and talents. Humbly acknowledging that all good comes from God, all are led to live committed to Christ in both work and life.

Memorial of Saints (October 13)

Feasts, Obligatory and Optional Memorials of Saints

• Edward the Confessor;
• Faustus, Januarius, and Martial, martyrs;
• Comgan, abbot;
• Gerald of Aurillac;
• Coloman, martyr;
• Maurice of Carnoë, abbot

Peter's Confession of Faith: Key to Understanding Mark's Gospel

Who Do You Say That I Am?

Understanding the Gospel of Mark through the Confession of Peter

The Gospel of Mark

The gospel of Mark is the shortest of the four gospels with just 16 chapters. Many bible scholars describe Mark as a long passion narrative. The reason given is the presentation of Christ's ministry which flows directly towards His passion, death and resurrection.

There are many ways of understanding the gospel of Mark. One way of understanding is through a key passage - the confession of Peter at Mark 8:27-30, where Peter confessed Jesus as, "You are the Christ". If this is seen as the turning point and central axis of the gospel, then it will be easy to understand what the passages mean before this turning point, and what the passages signify after this turning point.

If the gospel of Mark is divided with the confession of Peter as the central passage between the first part before the confession, and the second part after the confession of Peter, then the main themes of the division will be:

1. theme: Who Am I?
2. central point: You Are The Christ
3. theme: What Does This Imply?

1 From this gospel structure, one can see that before the confession of Peter, the meaning of the passages generally lead to the general thematic trend-question of who and what the identity of Christ is. In these passages before Peter's confession, Jesus was multiplying the loaves of bread and performing healing miracles. These signs impressed the people's minds and made them aware of Jesus and wonder who Jesus is.

2 And then this leads to the turning point: the confession of Peter. Peter gave the right answer under the inspiration of God's Spirit.

3 From hereon, the answer of Peter, "You are the Christ", leads to the thematic trend that being the Christ, the Messiah, means suffering and death. This answers the thematic question, "What does this imply?", and leads to three predictions of Christ's passion.

The main thematic passages of the Gospel of Mark

Below is the structure of the gospel of Mark according to the themes before the turning point and the themes after the turning point.

I. Who Am I?

• Mark 1:1 - "The beginning of the gospel of Jesus Christ, the Son of God"
• Mark 6:30-34 - First multiplication of the loaves
• Mark 7:31-37 - Healing of deaf-mute
• Mark 8:1-10 - Second multiplication of loaves
• Mark 8:22-26 - Healing of blind man of Bethsaida

II. You Are The Christ? - Mark 8:27-30

III. What Does This Imply?

• Mark 8:31 - First prediction of the passion
• Mark 9:31 - Second prediction of the passion
• Mark 10:32-34 - Third prediction of the passion
• Mark 10:35-45 - The Sons of Zebedee
• Mark 10:46-52 - Healing of blind Bartimaeus
• Mark 15:39 - Confession of the centurion: "Truly this man was the Son of God."

The main message of the Gospel of Mark

The first part of the gospel speaks about the signs performed by Jesus during His public ministry. Many people wondered who Jesus was because of the great signs He was performing. (First multiplication of the loaves, Healing of deaf-mute, Second multiplication of loaves, Healing of blind man of Bethsaida: Mark 6-8).

After that first part, Mark leads the readers to the confession of Peter: "You Are The Christ" - Mark 8:27-30. But before this confession of Peter, Mark presents passages that builds up the readers' interest:

• the apostolic group gathered at Caesarea Philippi,
• Jesus turned to His apostles and questioned them, "Who do people say that I Am?".
• The first answers were answers in line with what prophets usually do,
• and so some say that Jesus was Elijah, or John the Baptist who came back from the dead, or just one of the prophets.
• And then Jesus turned this question to the apostles and asked them, "Who do you say that I Am?"
• It was Peter who gave the right and inspired answer.

Note that this confession of Peter was echoed and reaffirmed by the confession of the centurion towards the end of the gospel when the centurion confessed, "Truly this man was the Son of God" (Mark 15:39).

What is Mark's reason for making the confession of Peter the turning point of the gospel? Mark wants the reader to also be aware that the Christ is not a Messiah in the manner by which the Jewish world understands what a Messiah should be. Rather, the Christ and Messiah, must suffer and die in order to save humanity from sin. This was Mark's emphasis. The Jews in biblical times were blind to this truth. They, and the apostles themselves, do not as yet see that Jesus as the Messiah is called to suffer death on the Cross. We can also point out the irony that exists in the gospel of Mark: the physically blind whom Jesus healed "saw" Jesus as the Messiah, while those who have preconceived notions of a Messiah as a glorified king or political liberator, are the ones who are blind, spiritually blind ("they have eyes and ears, but they do not see or hear" [Isaiah 6:9-10])

Mark also implies that this truth flows into the meaning of Christian discipleship. Just as Jesus served and did not seek political glory, then those who are called to follow Christ are also called to follow Him not in the road to political glory, but to serve one another in the manner that Christ did.

Memorial of Saints (October 12)

Feasts, Obligatory and Optional Memorials of Saints

• Maximilian, bishop and martyr;
• Felix and Cyprian and Companions;
• Edwin, martyr;
• Ethelburga of Barking, virgin;
• Wilfrid, bishop

St. Maximilian of Lorch (d. ca. 284 A.D.) was born at Cilli, Styria, of wealthy parents. He gave his inheritance to charity, went on a pilgrimage to Rome and was sent to the missions by Pope Sixtus II. St. Maximilian became bishop of Lorch, made many converts, and was beheaded by Prefect Numerian when he refused to sacrifice to pagan gods.

Memorial of Saints (October 11)

Feasts, Obligatory and Optional Memorials of Saints

• Andronicus, Tarachus and Probus, martyrs
• Nectarius, bishop;
• Canice or Kenneth, abbot;
• Agilbert, bishop;
• Gummarus or Gommaire;
• Bruno the Great of Cologne, bishop;
• Alexander Sauli, bishop;
• Maria Desolata (Emmanuela Torres Acosta), virgin

St. Bruno the Great of Cologne (925-965 A.D.) is not the St. Bruno of Cologne who founded the Carthusians. The founder of the Carthusians lived between the years ca. 1030-1101 A.D. This St. Bruno became the personal secretary of Emperor Otto I, who was his brother. In 953 A.D., St. Bruno was appointed archbishop of Cologne. He was active in the political life of his time: a leader in imperial as well as ecclesiastical affairs and helping settle many political disputes. He died at Rheims on October 11.

Memorial of Saints (October 10)

Feasts, Obligatory and Optional Memorials of Saints

• Francis Borgia, confessor;
• Gereon and Companions, martyrs;
• Eulampius and Eulampia, martyrs;
• Maharsapor, martyr;
• Cerbonius, bishop;
• Paulinus of York, bishop;
• Daniel and Companions, martyrs

St. Cerbonius (d. ca. 575) was driven from Africa by the Vandals. He moved to Tuscany with St. Regulus whom he eventually succeeded as bishop of Populania. When the Ostrogoths invaded Tuscany, St. Cerbonius was ordered to be killed by wild beasts by King Totila. However, St. Cerbonius was miraculously saved. He spent the last thirty years of his life in exile on Elba.

Saints (October 10), Learn more

On the Jerusalem's Spirituality and Rule of Life

In the Heart of the City, In the Heart of God by Pierre-Marie Delfieux

This book is about monastic spirituality. It is unique because it describes the Jerusalem Community's rule of life - which is a spirituality that lives monasticism "in the midst of the world" - "in the heart of the city".

A brief introduction

The Introduction of the book has this quote:

"In the Heart of the City, In the Heart of God is not just the rule of life of the monastic communities; it is also a "Book of Life" expressing the ideal lived by all those in the Communion. It is a spiritual guide for both monastics and laity, since their common baptismal vocation has its source in the one Gospel and its model in the unique face of Christ."

A spiritually enriching book

Monastic spirituality is probably the deepest of the spiritualities in the Catholic Church since many who live this spirituality are in constant prayer and meditation. Even while doing ordinary work, monastics always place themselves before God in an attitude of prayer and contemplation. The spiritual wisdom embedded in this book can be helpful for anyone wanting to avoid the distracting noise of the city and his work environs. It is indeed a discipline to balance one's attention between what one does in the external world and in how one relates to God. Most of the time one's attention, thoughts and feelings get dissipated by the influence of news and activities. When anyone immerses in a book such as this, a refreshing experience of silence and the knowledge of God's presence becomes priceless.

To get an idea of what the book contains, here is a list of the book's chapters:

• Communities
• Love
• Prayer
• Work
• Silence
• Hospitality
• Monastic
• Monks and Nuns
• Chastity
• Poverty
• Obedience
• Humility
• In the Heart of the City
• At the Heart of the World
• In the Church
• Jerusalem
• Joy

Scriptural references

The book is written with scriptural references at the sides of the pages. Monastic life is very much rooted in the scriptures. Much of what is known of monastic life has a specific reference to a scripture passage: either in the Old Testament or in the New Testament. To understand the contents of the book very well, a good English translation of the Bible can help a lot.

Memorial of Saints (October 9)

Feasts, Obligatory and Optional Memorials of Saints

• Denis
• John Leonardi
• Demetrius of Alexandria, bishop;
• Publia, widow;
• Andronicus and Athanasia;
• Savin;
• Gislenus or Ghislain, abbot;
• Gunther;
• Louis Bertrand

Learn more of the lives of Saints in October 9

Denis, or Dionysius (died 258 A.D.): first bishop of Paris; martyred with the presbyter, Eleutherius, and the deacon, Rusticus, on Montmartre (or "mount of martyrs"); patron of Paris and France.

Related blog post: St. Bernadette Soubirous and the Patron Saints of France, Learn more

John Leonardi: (died 1609 A.D.) at Lucca; founded (1574 A.D.) the Congregation of Clerics Regular of the Mother of God to further education in Christian doctrine; helped found the Propaganda Fide, the Vatican Congregation in charge of missionary activity (known as the Congregation for the Evangelization of Peoples).

Memorial of Saints (October 8)

Feasts, Obligatory and Optional Memorials of Saints

• Marcellus, martyr;
• Simeon;
• Pelagia the Penitent;
• Thaïs;
• Reparata, virgin and martyr;
• Demetrius, martyr;
• Keyne, virgin

Memorial of Saints (October 7)

Feasts, Obligatory and Optional Memorials of Saints

• Our Lady of the Rosary;
• Mark, pope;
• Justina, virgin and martyr;
• Osyth, virgin and martyr;
• Artaldus or Arthaud, bishop

27th Sunday of the Year (B)

Reflections for the 27th Sunday of the Year (B)
Genesis 2:18-24
Psalm 128
Hebrews 2:9-11
Mark 10:2-16

To be posted and published soon.

Memorial of Saints (October 6)

Feasts, Obligatory and Optional Memorials of Saints

• Bruno, priest
• Faith, virgin and martyr;
• Nicetas of Constantinople;
• Mary Frances of Naples, virgin

Bruno (died 1101 A.D.): at la Grande Chartreuse (or Charter House) near Grenoble; sought "to seek God assiduously, to find God promptly, and to possess God fully"; founded (1084 A.D.) the Carthusians, whose motto is "while the world changes, the cross stands firm."

Memorial of Saints (October 5)

Feasts, Obligatory and Optional Memorials of Saints

• Maria Faustina Kowalska
• Apollinaris of Valence, bishop;
• Galla, widow;
• Magenulf or Meinulf;
• Flora of Beaulieu, virgin;
• Aymard of Cluny, abbot

St. Aymard (d. 965 A.D.) became the third abbot of the Benedictine monastery at Cluny, France. Succeeding St. Odo in 942 A.D., he continued the reforms of St. Odo and his predecessor. He resigned in 948 A.D. because of blindness and died on October 5.

Related blog posts:

• The Benedictine Monastery at Cluny, France, Learn more
• Sts. Berno, Odo, and Aymard: Benedictine Abbots of Cluny, Learn more
• Sts. Majolus, Odilo, and Hugh: Benedictine Abbots of Cluny, Learn more
• What Monasticism in the History of the Church Can Teach Us, Learn more

Memorial of Saints (October 4)

Feasts, Obligatory and Optional Memorials of Saints

• Francis of Assisi
• Ammon;
• Petronius, bishop

Francis of Assisi: (died 3 Oct 1226 A.D.); noted for his charismatic personality, deep compassion for all, and love for God's creation; renounced wealth to follow "Lady Poverty"; deacon; founded the Order of Friars Minor, the Poor Clares and the Third Order; wrote Canticle of the Sun; received the stigmata 14 Sept. 1224 A.D.; canonized only two years after his death; patron of ecologists and of Italy.

Related Blog posts:

• St. Francis and the Franciscans, One of the Four Great Mendicant Orders in the Church, Learn more
• St. Francis' Involvement in the Crusades, Learn more
• St. Clare of Assisi and the Poor Clares - the "Second Order" of the Franciscans, Learn more
• St. Anthony of Padua, St. Bonaventure, and St. Lawrence of Brindisi: three Franciscan Doctors of the Church

Memorial of Saints (October 3)

Feasts, Obligatory and Optional Memorials of Saints

• Francis Borgia, priest
• Hesychius;
• The Two Ewalds, martyrs
• Gerard of Brogne, abbot
• Froilan and Attilanus, bishop
• Thomas of Hereford, bishop

St. Francis Borgia (1510-1572 A.D.) was married to Eleanor de Castro in 1529 A.D. When Eleanor died in 1546 A.D., he was left with eight children. In 1548 A.D. Francis decided to join the Jesuits. He went to Rome, returned to Spain the next year to turn over his inheritance to his son, Charles, and was ordained later in the year. Francis Borgia founded numerous monasteries, colleges and foundations. In 1565 A.D., he was elected father general of the Jesuit Order (the third general from St. Ignatius of Loyola). As superior general, he expanded the Society of Jesus greatly. He was so successful in revitalizing and reinvigorating the Jesuit Order that he is often called the second founder. He was canonized in 1671 A.D. (the Dictionary of Saints by John Delaney mentions his feast day on October 10 while the Lives of the Saints by Richard P. McBrien mentions his feast day on October 3).

Related blog posts:

• Eight Days of the Spiritual Exercises
• St. Peter Canisius, Priest and Jesuit
• Hearts on Fire: Praying with Jesuits
• St. Aloysius Gonzaga, Jesuit Scholastic
• St. Ignatius of Loyola, Priest and Founder
• Heroic Leadership

The Two Ewalds (d. ca. 695 A.D.) were two brothers from Northumbria. They were educated in Ireland and were sent as missionaries to Germany. They were named "the Dark" and "the Fair" to distinguish them. Both were murdered by barbarians who feared that their friendship with the local chieftain of Aplerbeke, Dortmund, would lead to the adoption of Christianity and the eradication of pagan rites. However, the chieftain put the murderers to death.

Learn more of Saints with Memorials on October 3

Memorial of Saints (October 2)

Feasts, Obligatory and Optional Memorials of Saints

• Guardian Angels
• Eleutherius, martyr;
• Leodegarius or Leger, bishop and martyr

Guardian Angels: Observed since the 16th c. A.D. in Spain, Pope Clement X in 1670 A.D. assigned this memorial to the first free day following Michaelmas day.

St. Eleutherius (d. ca. 303 A.D.) was a soldier in Nicomedia when the Emperor Diocletian's palace got burned. He was accused of being the leader of a group that set it on fire, he was tortured and then burned to death. (A lot of Christians were martyred during the time of Emperor Diocletian). His story is in the Roman Martyrology.

Learn more

The Spirituality of St. Therese of Lisieux

An extraordinary charity

What makes St. Therese such a great saint was not because she accomplished many great things, but that she accomplished simple tasks with extraordinary charity. According to author Segundo Galilea, the spirituality of St. Therese is not complicated. No excessive will power was exercised and no emphasis was made to accomplish what was difficult. She rather insisted on the quality of love and charity in everything that she did. The spirit of extraordinary charity she placed in all that she did was rooted in God - in the core of her heart and soul as a Carmelite nun.

Her "Little Way"

Even in her childlike attitude is found an amazing wisdom that leads us to see how small each one is in relation to God and all the trials and tribulations experienced in life. This is especially seen when Therese said to her sister Celine:

"Do not try to rise above your trials, for we are too small to rise above our difficulties. Therefore, let us try to pass under them."

All things in the Church for God

Because of her extraordinary charity, St. Therese wanted to live and experience every existing vocation in the Church. She wanted to become a contemplative, a missionary, a martyr, an evangelizer, a penitent, an educator, dedicated to the poor, and the servant of the sick. Like St. Paul, she wanted to be all things to all people so that she may win many souls to God.

St. Therese did live all what she desired for God as she expressed in her desire to be many things for Him. She "mystically" (as Segundo Galilea stated) lived the substance of every Catholic vocation in her state of life as a Discalced Carmelite. Through God's divine grace, she has "mystically" integrated the entire multiform mission of the Church in her soul.

A missionary in heart and soul

St. Therese sacrificed herself for the missions. But unlike St. Francis Xavier who traveled thousands of miles, preached the gospel incessantly, and died a martyr, St. Therese never left her Carmelite convent. Her missionary journey was more an inner journey - what author Mary Neill, OP, calls the "emigres de l'Interieur". In her inner journey, St. Therese experienced "spiritual martyrdoms" and "dangerous adventures". She traveled the inner geography of her soul in a very deeply affecting way that really touches the heart of anyone who has read her autobiography. Many will be inspired to live a more contemplative approach to life after reading her autobiography.

What also made St. Therese a true missionary in heart and soul was her ministry and mission of encouraging missionaries through her correspondence with them. In the midst of laundry work, cleaning rooms, looking after linen, she took time to bring courage and faith to the missionaries she corresponded with. She wrote to Carmelite sisters in Hanoi, Vietnam, to Pere Roulland (a missionary in China), and to a seminarian named Maurice Belliere.

"The Story of a Soul"

A lot can be learned from St. Therese. Not only from secondary sources on her life and spirituality, but most important of all the primary source of her little Way - her autobiography, "The Story of a Soul". It is really a very inspiring book - one that anyone can identify with spiritually. She writes her autobiography in a candid and very simple style. After reading the book, one will truly know in mind, heart and soul, that there is a God who truly loves all - no matter how small or simple one is.

Sources of this blog post

• Great Saints Great Friends, by Mary Neill, OP, and Ronda Chervin
• The Doctors of the Church, by John F. Fink
• The Friendship of God, by Segundo Galilea

St. Therese of Lisieux, Co-Patroness of Missions

St. Therese of Lisieux, Virgin and Doctor of the Church

Birth and childhood

St. Therese of Lisieux was born Marie Françoise Martin on January 2, 1873 A.D., at Alençon, France. Therese is the youngest of nine children - with only five of them surviving (all girls) to adulthood. Her father was Martin, a watchmaker, and her mother was Zelie Guerin. When the mother of Therese passed away in 1877 A.D., her father moved the family to Lisieux so that Therese and her sisters could be near an aunt who can help raise the family.

Entering the Carmelite convent at Lisieux

Therese was nearly fourteen when she insistently wanted to enter the Carmelite convent where her sisters Pauline and Marie entered. She was refused admission at first because of her youth, but when she reached the age of 15 years, with a Papal dispensation, she entered the Carmelite Monastery of Lisieux. She was professed in 1890 A.D. and took the religious name she will come to be known by: Therese of the Child Jesus.

Life as a Carmelite

Therese became afflicted with tuberculosis. However, she bore her illness with great patience and fortitude. She did not perform extraordinary things, but rather, she fulfilled her daily duties in an extraordinary way - in a spirit of love and charity. Soon, she was appointed novice mistress of the community, in which position she taught humility and simplicity to the new novices (both in word and by example). When her older sisters got the idea for her to write her autobiography, by order of the prioress, which was Pauline (the eldest sister of Therese), she undertook to write the story of her life. This autobiography came to be titled, "The Story of a Soul".

The Story of a Soul

The Story of a Soul is actually composed of three manuscripts: manuscript A - this is the one asked of Therese by her sister Pauline; manuscript B - this tells about her "little way", for which she is famous; and manuscript C - this compiles a memoir of Therese and her experiences as a Carmelite (this Therese wrote in obedience to prioress Mother Gonzague, the one who succeeded her sister Pauline). This book, in one of its editions, is published in only 159 pages and divided into eleven chapters. Reading the book will truly introduce the reader not only to the "little way" of Therese, but also how she lived this spirit in her life as a Carmelite nun in Lisieux.

Death and sainthood

Therese died of tuberculosis in September 30, 1897 A.D. at Lisieux. She immediately attracted a tremendous following as "the Little Flower" and "the saint of the little way". She was canonized in 1925 A.D. by Pope Pius XI and was declared copatron of the missions (because of her spiritually encouraging correspondence by letters with many missionaries) together with St. Francis Xavier in 1927 A.D. She was also named copatroness of France together with St. Joan of Arc in October 1, 1944 A.D. In 1997 A.D., one hundred years after he death, she was declared a Doctor of the Church by Pope John Paul II. The Church celebrates her feast day every October 1.

Memorials of Saints (October 1)

Feasts, Obligatory and Optional Memorials of Saints

• St. Therese of Lisieux, virgin & doctor of the Church
• Remigius, bishop and confessor;
• Romanus the Melodist;
• Melorus Melar or Mylor, martyr;
• Bavo or Allowin

Therese Martin: the "Little Flower," died 30 September 1897 A.D. of tuberculosis in Carmel of Lisieux at age 24; born in Alencon; contemplative who, in her biography, "The Story of a Soul" urged all to follow "the little way"; proclaimed doctor of the Church by Pope John Paul II, 19 October 2001 A.D.; patroness of the missions, of France.

• St. Therese's book The Story of a Soul is mentioned as one of the fourteen classics in the book The Classics of Catholic Spirituality
• More details on the story of her life are found in the book, Saints and Spiritual Friendship
• She is also one of the patron saints of France together with St. Denis, St. Bernadette Soubirous, St. Joan of Arc, St. Martin of Tours and St. Remigius. Learn more
• She is also a co-patron of Missions, Learn more
• The Spirituality of St. Therese of Lisieux