* * *** “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. Sadly, she was […]

* * *** During his reign as King of Germany, St. Henry (973–1024) was crowned Holy Roman Emperor by Pope Benedict VIII.

— As a young student, Henry received lessons in piety and charity which would serve him well in life; the medieval king had a deep faith in God and great concern for the Church and his people. Amidst the politics and battles to protect and expand his empire, Henry used his power and wealth to […]

* * *** “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

— St. Benedict of Nursia (480-547) was a visionary… his instructions on religious life, known as the “Rule of St. Benedict,” is still directing monastic life today. Its wisdom emphasizes balance and moderation; through prayer, work, and simplicity. Although written for monastics, the Rule is widely read by the those who seek “to do battle […]

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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)

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— “My Lord and my God!”… the great acclamation of St. Thomas after touching the wounds of Christ (Jn 20:28). — Although Thomas is best remembered for doubting the Resurrection; his work proved steadfast in preaching the Gospel. After Pentecost, the ‘scattering of The Twelve’ would take Thomas far outside the Roman Empire, carrying the […]

* * *** We honor the unnamed First Martyrs in Rome who endured much suffering under the reign of Nero.

— In AD 64, a great fire destroyed large sections of Rome and many believed Nero was to blame for matters of his own interest. To deflect suspicion from himself, Nero accused the Christians of the arson and increased his efforts to persecute them. Christians were seen as an unpopular and expanding group “given to […]

* * *** We honor Saints Peter and Paul, the two great Apostles and principal Pillars of the Church.

— Peter, Leader of the Twelve and “Prince of the Apostles,” was chosen by Jesus at the Sea of Galilee: “And so I say to you, you are Peter, and upon this rock I will build my church, and the gates of the netherworld shall not prevail against it.” (Mt 16:18) — Paul, the great […]

* * *** Martyred around 203, St. Irenaeus is best known for defending Christian orthodoxy against Gnosticism.

— 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 theological insight. — […]

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