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— Born in a Lebanese mountain village, St. Sharbel (1828-1898) was a Maronite priest and hermit-monk. Originally revered among Lebanese Christians, his reputation for holiness (and many miracles) spread throughout the world, leading countless pilgrims to his tomb. — While only some are called to the hermit life, that which St. Sharbel practiced -contemplative silence, […]

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— St. Apollinaris was one of the first great martyrs of the church. According to tradition, he was consecrated Bishop of Ravenna by St. Peter during the reign of Emperor Claudius. Apollinaris preached the Good News and worked miracles, and although many converted to the faith, he also provoked the ire of idolaters.

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*** *** *** “The best perfection of a religious man is to do common things in a perfect manner. A constant fidelity in small things is a great and heroic virtue.” (St. Bonaventure)

— Known as the Seraphic Doctor, St. Bonaventure (1221–1274) is considered one of the most influential theologians of the Middle Ages. He was elected Minister General of the Friars Minor and composed a number of important works, including his mystical treatise “The Journey of the Mind to God.” Through generations, St. Bonaventure continues to inspire […]

*** *** *** the young and steadfast “Lily of the Mohawks”

— Born in the Mohawk village of Ossernenon, St. Kateri (1656–1680) was the daughter of a Mohawk chief and an Algonquin woman who had been assimilated into the tribe after she was taken captive. When a smallpox epidemic hit her village, Kateri was orphaned and left with impaired eyesight and facial scars. She was often […]

*** *** *** “Idleness is the enemy of the soul; and therefore the brethren ought to be employed in manual labor at certain times, at others, in devout reading.” (from the Rule of St. Benedict)

— Known as the “Father of Western Monasticism,” St. Benedict of Nursia (480-547) was a visionary. His instruction on religious life, known as the “Rule of St. Benedict,” is still directing monastic life today. ‘The Rule’ is also widely read by those outside the monastic community who seek “to do battle for Christ the Lord, […]

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— Daughter of King Peter III of Aragon, St. Elizabeth (1271-1336) was a devout child, developing a spiritual strength that would equip her in life. At a young age, she was given in marriage to Denis, King of Portugal. He would have several illegitimate children, resulting in great strife over heirship to the throne. Elizabeth […]

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We wish you and family a blessed and safe Independence Day! ~ from all of us at Midwest Theological Forum (Apostolic Journey – Oriole Park at Camden Yards, Baltimore – 10/08/1995)