— “And indeed in the Rosary… the chief mysteries of our religion follow one another, as they are brought before our mind for contemplation: first of all the mysteries in which the Word was made flesh and Mary, the inviolate Virgin and Mother, performed her maternal duties for Him with a holy joy…” (Magnae Dei […]
— Part of Franciscan history involves the San Damiano Cross. According to tradition, it was while praying in the chapel of San Damiano that Francis received a message from Christ Crucified to rebuild the Church. This cross now hangs in the Basilica of Saint Clare and remains a popular site for pilgrims.
– “For he will give his angels charge of you, to guard you in all your ways.” (Ps 91:11) – “‘Father, if thou art willing, remove this cup from me; nevertheless not my will, but thine, be done.’ And there appeared to him an angel from heaven, strengthening him.” (Lk 22:42-43) – “For the Son […]
— St. Therese (1873-1897) received permission to enter the Carmelite convent at only 15; her insight and deep spirituality were way beyond her years. She is remembered for her “little way” of seeking sanctity by doing daily chores with little acts of charity and making sacrifices. Her many inspirational writings include “Story of a Soul,” […]
— St. Jerome (c. 342) believed that all Christians should view Bible study as a necessity. He is best known for his translation of the Bible into Latin, the Vulgate, which was adopted by the Church as the official edition of Scripture. St. Jerome’s extensive writings include historical essays, commentaries on Scripture, and writings on […]
~ Michael is the great protector and defender of the Church. Pope Leo XIII instituted the Prayer to St. Michael, invoking his name for protection against Satan and all evil. ~ Gabriel is the messenger; he announced the birth of John the Baptist to Zechariah and the joyful message of the Incarnation to the Blessed […]
— St. Vincent de Paul (1581–1660) was a French priest who dedicated himself to ministering spiritually and materially to the poor and suffering. He founded the Congregation of the Mission (Vincentians) and cofounded the Daughters of Charity with St. Louise de Marillac.
Saint Pius of Pietrelcina (1887–1968), known as Padre Pio, was an Italian Franciscan Capuchin friar, priest, stigmatist, and mystic. His miraculous abilities as spiritual advisor, confessor, and intercessor attracted the attention of the world.
— “As Jesus passed on from there, he saw a man called Matthew sitting at the tax office; and he said to him, ‘Follow me.’ And he rose and followed him.” (Mt 9:9)
— In 1215, St. Dominic was granted permission to form his own religious order for the purpose of promoting morality and addressing the spiritual needs of the growing cities. St. Dominic and six followers lived by monastic rules which included discipline, prayer, and penance. The group also established a system of education.