catholicsaints

*** *** *** “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 and is also widely read by those outside the monastic community. Its wisdom emphasizes balance and moderation; through prayer, work, and […]

*** *** ***

— Martyred around 203, St. Irenaeus is considered one of the first great Church theologians and his important work went beyond the refutation of heresy. His system of theology includes the principle of apostolic succession and Mary’s role in the history of salvation. Some fragments of his writings have survived and are studied today for […]

“John the Baptist is ‘more than a prophet.’ In him, the Holy Spirit concludes his speaking through the prophets… John ‘came to bear witness to the light.’ In John’s sight, the Spirit thus brings to completion the careful search of the prophets and fulfills the longing of the angels.” (CCC 719)

— We honor the birth of St. John the Baptist with the highest order of liturgical feast. As the Forerunner of the Savior, St. John prepared the way for Jesus, instructing his followers to turn and follow the “Lamb of God.” (Usually celebrated on June 24, this year the Solemnity is moved to June 23 […]

*** *** ***

— Born in Nisibis, St. Ephrem (306– 373) was a deacon, poet, teacher, and defender of the faith. He is remembered for his hymns and biblical commentaries, many of which are still in existence. His works not only give praise and worship to God, but also teach the Christian faith. Confronting the heresy of his […]

*** *** ***

“Mary, present in the Church as the Mother of the Redeemer, takes part, as a mother, in that monumental struggle; against the powers of darkness which continues throughout human history. …as Christians raise their eyes with faith to Mary in the course of their earthly pilgrimage, they ‘strive to increase in holiness.’ Mary, the exalted […]

*** *** *** courageous young men gave witness to Christ…

— As master page in the royal court of King Mwanga, St. Charles (d. 1886) led a group of young men to uphold their Christian faith in opposition to King Mwanga’s immoral actions. St. Charles was martyred along with many of his fellow pages, including St. Kizito, who was only fourteen. Some of the men […]