Archangels Michael, Gabriel, and Raphael

 Introduction

Saints Michael, Gabriel, and Raphael are the three archangels recognized in the Christian tradition, especially in Catholicism. They are celebrated together on **September 29** in a feast known as the **Feast of the Archangels**. Each of these archangels has a specific role in the divine plan, serving as messengers and protectors of God's people.

 Archangel Michael, Leader of the Heavenly Army

Role: He is the protector of the Church and is often depicted as a warrior defending heaven from the forces of evil. In the Book of Revelation, Michael leads the heavenly army against Satan.

Patronage: He is the patron saint of soldiers, police officers, and those in battle.

Depictions: Typically shown with armor, a sword or spear, and a shield, sometimes standing over a defeated dragon or demon.

 Archangel Gabriel, Messenger of God

Role: Gabriel is known for delivering important messages from God. His most famous appearances are in the Book of Daniel, where he explains visions, and in the New Testament, where he announces the births of John the Baptist to Zechariah and Jesus to the Virgin Mary (the Annunciation).

Patronage: Gabriel is the patron saint of messengers, postal workers, and telecommunications.

Depictions: He is often portrayed with a lily, symbolizing purity, or with a scroll.

 Archangel Raphael, Healer of God

Role: Raphael is known as a healer and guide. In the Book of Tobit, he guides Tobit’s son Tobias and helps to heal Tobit’s blindness. Raphael’s name means "God heals."

Patronage: He is the patron saint of travelers, healers, and those seeking guidance.

Depictions: Often shown with a staff, a fish (from the healing in the Book of Tobit), or sometimes walking alongside a young Tobias.

Significance of the Feast

Unity of the Archangel:  The feast day emphasizes the distinct yet complementary roles of the archangels in God’s plan. Their feast is a celebration of God's messengers who bring protection, healing, and divine guidance.

The archangels hold a special place in Christian tradition as protectors, healers, and messengers. Their feast day is a reminder of the ongoing spiritual battle and the presence of divine help in human affairs.

Saint Wenceslaus

 

Saint Wenceslaus, also known as Wenceslaus I, Duke of Bohemia, was born around 907 AD in present-day Czech Republic. He is remembered as a martyr and patron saint of the Czech state. Raised by his devout Christian grandmother, St. Ludmila, Wenceslaus embraced Christianity and sought to spread the faith in his rule as Duke of Bohemia.

When Wenceslaus came to power around 921 AD, Bohemia was a turbulent region, with conflicts between pagan and Christian factions. His efforts to consolidate the Christian faith and maintain peace with neighboring Germany earned him a reputation for being a just and pious ruler. Wenceslaus is especially praised for his charitable acts, devotion to the church, and his care for the poor. 

Significant Incident

The most notable incident in Wenceslaus' life was his martyrdom. His younger brother, Boleslaus the Cruel, led a conspiracy against him due to political differences and power struggles. On September 28, 935 AD, Boleslaus invited Wenceslaus to a feast in the town of Stará Boleslav under the guise of reconciliation. However, Boleslaus and his followers ambushed and murdered Wenceslaus on his way to church. His death is considered a martyrdom because Wenceslaus died for his Christian faith and values, and it led to his immediate veneration as a saint.

Wenceslaus' legacy is enduring, with his feast day celebrated on September 28. He became a symbol of Czech nationalism and Christian virtue, immortalized in the Christmas carol "Good King Wenceslas."

Saints Louis Martin and Zélie Guérin

 

Saint Louis Martin (1823–1894) is best known as the father of Saint Thérèse of Lisieux, but his own life was marked by deep faith and devotion. He was born on August 22, 1823, in Bordeaux, France, into a military family. After an early desire to become a monk was thwarted due to health issues, he turned his attention to learning watchmaking, a trade he practiced with great success.

In 1858, Louis married Zélie Guérin, a lace-maker, and together they built a loving and devout home in Alençon, France. They had nine children, four of whom died in infancy, but their five daughters all became nuns, including the future Saint Thérèse of Lisieux. Louis and Zélie raised their children with a strong sense of faith, charity, and devotion to God's will.

Significant Events in Louis Martin's Life:

1. Marriage to Zélie Guérin (1858): This union was central to his life. Both Louis and Zélie were declared saints together in 2015. Their shared spiritual journey and dedication to family life became the foundation for their daughters' religious vocations.

2. The Death of His Wife (1877): After Zéli noe’s death from breast cancer, Louis moved with his daughters to Lisieux. Despite his grief, he remained deeply committed to their spiritual formation.

3. Therese's Entry into Carmel (1888): Louis supported Thérèse's early desire to join the Carmelite convent, despite her young age. His willingness to let go of his youngest daughter for a life of contemplation showed his trust in God’s plan.

4. Suffering and Illness (1887-1894): In his later years, Louis suffered from arteriosclerosis and spent the final years of his life incapacitated by strokes. His suffering was a source of spiritual strength for Thérèse, who wrote about how she admired her father’s courage and faith during his illness.

Louis Martin’s example of fatherhood and faith was key in shaping the sanctity of his daughter, Thérèse. He was beatified along with his wife Zélie in 2008 and canonized in 2015. Their shared feast day is celebrated on July 12.

Saint John Henry Newman

 

Saint John Henry Newman (1801–1890) was an influential theologian, Anglican priest, and later a Catholic cardinal who played a significant role in religious thought in England during the 19th century. He was born in London and educated at Oxford, where he became a leading figure in the Church of England and a founder of the Oxford Movement, which aimed to bring the Anglican Church closer to its Catholic roots. 

Early Life and Anglican Ministry

Newman was ordained as an Anglican priest in 1825, and his early ministry was marked by deep theological reflection and academic achievements. He became the vicar of St. Mary’s University Church, Oxford, where his sermons gained a large following. His work with the Oxford Movement, which began in 1833, sought to emphasize the continuity of the Anglican Church with the early Christian Church and to revive certain Catholic traditions.

Conversion to Catholicism

The most significant event in Newman’s life occurred in 1845 when he converted to Roman Catholicism. This decision was the culmination of years of theological study and reflection, especially on issues of church authority and apostolic succession. His conversion shocked Victorian England, where anti-Catholic sentiment was strong, and it brought great personal and professional costs. However, it also made him famous, as his conversion was seen as a major intellectual victory for Catholicism in England.

 Catholic Priesthood and Cardinalate

After his conversion, Newman was ordained a Catholic priest in 1847. He went on to found the Birmingham Oratory in 1849, a religious community based on the Oratorian model established by St. Philip Neri. His writings during this period, including his autobiography *Apologia Pro Vita Sua* (1864), defended his religious views and recounted his spiritual journey, restoring his reputation and earning him widespread respect.

In 1879, Pope Leo XIII made Newman a cardinal in recognition of his contributions to Catholic theology and his defense of the faith. He remained a prominent intellectual figure, writing on a wide range of topics, including the development of Christian doctrine, conscience, and the relationship between faith and reason.

 Legacy

Newman’s work has had a lasting impact on both the Catholic and Anglican traditions. He was canonized by Pope Francis on October 13, 2019, becoming the first English saint of the modern era. His writings continue to be influential in areas of theology, education, and the understanding of conscience. 

His contributions to education, particularly in his founding of the Catholic University of Ireland, and his ideas on the role of the laity in the church, are also notable.

The most significant event that made Newman famous was his conversion to Catholicism in 1845, which marked a turning point in his life and significantly influenced religious life in England. His intellectual rigor and defense of Catholicism through his writings solidified his status as one of the most important religious figures of his time.

Saint Pio of Pietrelcina

 Saint Pio of Pietrelcina (1887–1968), commonly known as Padre Pio, was a Capuchin friar and priest renowned for his piety, charity, and the mystical phenomena attributed to him, such as the stigmata.

Early Life

Born Francesco Forgione on May 25, 1887, in Pietrelcina, Italy, Padre Pio was raised in a devout Catholic family. From a young age, he felt drawn to religious life and entered the Capuchin friary at age 15, taking the name Pio. He was ordained as a priest in 1910, but due to health issues, he spent several years recovering in his hometown.

 Stigmata and Mystical Experiences

One of the most remarkable aspects of Padre Pio's life was the stigmata he bore for 50 years, from 1918 until his death in 1968. These were wounds resembling those of Christ's crucifixion, appearing on his hands, feet, and side. Despite extensive medical examinations and scrutiny by both Church and secular authorities, the cause of these wounds remained a mystery.

 Spiritual Gifts

Padre Pio was believed to possess numerous spiritual gifts, including bilocation (the ability to be in two places at once), prophecy, healing, and the ability to read souls during confession. He was a sought-after confessor, spending hours in the confessional daily. Many people experienced deep conversions after speaking with him.

 Significant Events

- 1918: Stigmata Appear – While praying before a crucifix in the monastery of San Giovanni Rotondo, Padre Pio received the visible stigmata, which he carried for the rest of his life.

- World War II: Healing and Protection – Padre Pio reportedly helped many soldiers during World War II through prayer and miracles, including protecting his town from bombings.

- Conflict with the Church– Due to the widespread attention surrounding the mystical phenomena, Padre Pio was subject to investigations and restrictions by Church authorities. At one point, he was prohibited from publicly celebrating Mass or hearing confessions, though these restrictions were later lifted.

1956: Foundation of the Casa Sollievo della Sofferenza – Padre Pio founded a hospital, the Casa Sollievo della Sofferenza ("Home for the Relief of Suffering"), which became a major center for medical care and research.

 Later Life and Canonization

Padre Pio died on September 23, 1968, and was canonized by Pope John Paul II on June 16, 2002. His feast day is celebrated on September 23. Today, he remains one of the most beloved modern saints, attracting pilgrims from around the world to San Giovanni Rotondo, where his tomb is located.

His life is a testimony to faith, suffering, and the power of prayer.

St. Matthew

 Saint Matthew’s Story

Matthew was a Jew who worked for the occupying Roman forces, collecting taxes from other Jews. The Romans were not scrupulous about what the “tax farmers” got for themselves. Hence the latter, known as “publicans,” were generally hated as traitors by their fellow Jews. The Pharisees lumped them with “sinners” (see Matthew 9:11-13). So it was shocking to them to hear Jesus call such a man to be one of his intimate followers.

Matthew got Jesus in further trouble by having a sort of going-away party at his house. The Gospel tells us that many tax collectors and “those known as sinners” came to the dinner. The Pharisees were still more badly shocked. What business did the supposedly great teacher have associating with such immoral people? Jesus’ answer was, “Those who are well do not need a physician, but the sick do. Go and learn the meaning of the words, ‘I desire mercy, not sacrifice.’ I did not come to call the righteous but sinners” (Matthew 9:12b-13). Jesus is not setting aside ritual and worship; he is saying that loving others is even more important.

No other particular incidents about Matthew are found in the New Testament.

Reflection

From such an unlikely situation, Jesus chose one of the foundations of the Church, a man others, judging from his job, thought was not holy enough for the position. But Matthew was honest enough to admit that he was one of the sinners Jesus came to call. He was open enough to recognize truth when he saw him. “And he got up and followed him” (Matthew 9:9b).

Saints Andrew Kim Taegon, Paul Chong Hasang, and Companions

 Saints Andrew Kim Taegon, Paul Chong Hasang, and Companions’ Stories

The first native Korean priest, Andrew Kim Taegon was the son of Christian converts. Following his baptism at the age of 15, Andrew traveled 1,300 miles to the seminary in Macao, China. After six years, he managed to return to his country through Manchuria. That same year he crossed the Yellow Sea to Shanghai and was ordained a priest. Back home again, he was assigned to arrange for more missionaries to enter by a water route that would elude the border patrol. He was arrested, tortured, and finally beheaded at the Han River near Seoul, the capital.

Andrew’s father Ignatius Kim, was martyred during the persecution of 1839, and was beatified in 1925. Paul Chong Hasang, a lay apostle and married man, also died in 1839 at age 45.

Among the other martyrs in 1839 was Columba Kim, an unmarried woman of 26. She was put in prison, pierced with hot tools and seared with burning coals. She and her sister Agnes were disrobed and kept for two days in a cell with condemned criminals, but were not molested. After Columba complained about the indignity, no more women were subjected to it. The two were beheaded. Peter Ryou, a boy of 13, had his flesh so badly torn that he could pull off pieces and throw them at the judges. He was killed by strangulation. Protase Chong, a 41-year-old nobleman, apostatized under torture and was freed. Later he came back, confessed his faith and was tortured to death.

Christianity came to Korea during the Japanese invasion in 1592 when some Koreans were baptized, probably by Christian Japanese soldiers. Evangelization was difficult because Korea refused all contact with the outside world except for taking taxes to Beijing annually. On one of these occasions, around 1777, Christian literature obtained from Jesuits in China led educated Korean Christians to study. A home Church began. When a Chinese priest managed to enter secretly a dozen years later, he found 4,000 Catholics, none of whom had ever seen a priest. Seven years later there were 10,000 Catholics. Religious freedom came to Korea in 1883.

Besides Andrew and Paul, Pope John Paul II canonized 98 Koreans and three French missionaries who had been martyred between 1839 and 1867, when he visited Korea in 1984. Among them were bishops and priests, but for the most part they were lay persons: 47 women and 45 men.

Reflection

We marvel at the fact that the Korean Church was strictly a lay Church for a dozen years after its birth. How did the people survive without the Eucharist? It is no belittling of this and other sacraments to realize that there must be a living faith before there can be a truly beneficial celebration of the Eucharist. The sacraments are signs of God’s initiative and response to faith already present. The sacraments increase grace and faith, but only if there is something ready to be increased.

St. Joseph of Cupertino

 Saint Joseph of Cupertino’s Story

Joseph of Cupertino is most famous for levitating at prayer. Already as a child, Joseph showed a fondness for prayer. After a short career with the Capuchins, he joined the Conventual Franciscans. Following a brief assignment caring for the friary mule, Joseph began his studies for the priesthood. Though studies were very difficult for him, Joseph gained a great deal of knowledge from prayer. He was ordained in 1628.

Joseph’s tendency to levitate during prayer was sometimes a cross; some people came to see this much as they might have gone to a circus sideshow. Joseph’s gift led him to be humble, patient, and obedient, even though at times he was greatly tempted and felt forsaken by God. He fasted and wore iron chains for much of his life.

The friars transferred Joseph several times for his own good and for the good of the rest of the community. He was reported to and investigated by the Inquisition; the examiners exonerated him.

Joseph was canonized in 1767. In the investigation preceding the canonization, 70 incidents of levitation are recorded.

Reflection

While levitation is an extraordinary sign of holiness, Joseph is also remembered for the ordinary signs he showed. He prayed even in times of inner darkness, and he lived out the Sermon on the Mount. He used his “unique possession”–his free will–to praise God and to serve God’s creation.

St. Robert Bellarmine

 Saint Robert Bellarmine’s Story

When Robert Bellarmine was ordained in 1570, the study of Church history and the fathers of the Church was in a sad state of neglect. A promising scholar from his youth in Tuscany, he devoted his energy to these two subjects, as well as to Scripture, in order to systematize Church doctrine against the attacks of the Protestant Reformers. He was the first Jesuit to become a professor at Louvain.

His most famous work is his three-volume Disputations on the Controversies of the Christian Faith. Particularly noteworthy are the sections on the temporal power of the pope and the role of the laity. Bellarmine incurred the anger of monarchists in England and France by showing the divine-right-of-kings theory untenable. He developed the theory of the indirect power of the pope in temporal affairs; although he was defending the pope against the Scottish philosopher Barclay, he also incurred the ire of Pope Sixtus V.

Bellarmine was made a cardinal by Pope Clement VIII on the grounds that “he had not his equal for learning.” While he occupied apartments in the Vatican, Bellarmine relaxed none of his former austerities. He limited his household expenses to what was barely essential, eating only the food available to the poor. He was known to have ransomed a soldier who had deserted from the army and he used the hangings of his rooms to clothe poor people, remarking, “The walls won’t catch cold.”

Among many activities, Bellarmine became theologian to Pope Clement VIII, preparing two catechisms which have had great influence in the Church.

The last major controversy of Bellarmine’s life came in 1616 when he had to admonish his friend Galileo, whom he admired. He delivered the admonition on behalf of the Holy Office, which had decided that the heliocentric theory of Copernicus was contrary to Scripture. The admonition amounted to a caution against putting forward—other than as a hypothesis—theories not yet fully proven. This shows that saints are not infallible.

Robert Bellarmine died on September 17, 1621. The process for his canonization was begun in 1627, but was delayed until 1930 for political reasons, stemming from his writings. In 1930, Pope Pius XI canonized him, and the next year declared him a doctor of the Church.

Reflection

The renewal in the Church sought by Vatican II was difficult for many Catholics. In the course of change, many felt a lack of firm guidance from those in authority. They yearned for the stone columns of orthodoxy and an iron command with clearly defined lines of authority. Vatican II assures us in The Church in the Modern World, “There are many realities which do not change and which have their ultimate foundation in Christ, who is the same yesterday and today, yes, and forever” (#10, quoting Hebrews 13:8).

Robert Bellarmine devoted his life to the study of Scripture and Catholic doctrine. His writings help us understand that the real source of our faith is not merely a set of doctrines, but rather the person of Jesus still living in the Church today.

St. Cornelius

 There was no pope for 14 months after the martyrdom of Saint Fabian because of the intensity of the persecution of the Church. During the interval, the Church was governed by a college of priests. Saint Cyprian, a friend of Cornelius, writes that Cornelius was elected pope “by the judgment of God and of Christ, by the testimony of most of the clergy, by the vote of the people, with the consent of aged priests and of good men.”

The greatest problem of Cornelius’s two-year term as pope had to do with the Sacrament of Penance and centered on the readmission of Christians who had denied their faith during the time of persecution. Two extremes were finally both condemned. Cyprian, primate of North Africa, appealed to the pope to confirm his stand that the relapsed could be reconciled only by the decision of the bishop.

In Rome, however, Cornelius met with the opposite view. After his election, a priest named Novatian (one of those who had governed the Church) had himself consecrated a rival bishop of Rome—one of the first antipopes. He denied that the Church had any power to reconcile not only the apostates, but also those guilty of murder, adultery, fornication, or second marriage! Cornelius had the support of most of the Church (especially of Cyprian of Africa) in condemning Novatianism, though the sect persisted for several centuries. Cornelius held a synod at Rome in 251 and ordered the “relapsed” to be restored to the Church with the usual “medicines of repentance.”

The friendship of Cornelius and Cyprian was strained for a time when one of Cyprian’s rivals made accusations about him. But the problem was cleared up.

A document from Cornelius shows the extent of organization in the Church of Rome in the mid-third century: 46 priests, seven deacons, seven subdeacons. It is estimated that the number of Christians totaled about 50,000. He died as a result of the hardships of his exile in what is now Civitavecchia.

Reflection

It seems fairly true to say that almost every possible false doctrine has been proposed at some time or other in the history of the Church. The third century saw the resolution of a problem we scarcely consider—the penance to be done before reconciliation with the Church after mortal sin. Men like Cornelius and Cyprian were God’s instruments in helping the Church find a prudent path between extremes of rigorism and laxity. They are part of the Church’s ever-living stream of tradition, ensuring the continuance of what was begun by Christ, and evaluating new experiences through the wisdom and experience of those who have gone before.

St. Notburga of Eben

 

St. Notburga of Eben (1265–1313) is venerated as a saint in Tyrol, Austria. She is known for her piety, compassion for the poor, and dedication to hard work. Notburga served as a kitchen maid for Count Henry of Rattenberg, where she gave leftover food to the poor. After being dismissed for her generosity, she became a servant to a peasant family in Eben.

Key Incident:

One famous event in her life was when she was working in the fields during harvest season. As it was Saturday evening, she wanted to stop work and observe the Sabbath. Her master disagreed and insisted she continue working. According to legend, Notburga threw her sickle into the air, and it miraculously remained suspended until the master relented and allowed her to stop for the Sabbath. This event symbolizes her deep faith and the miraculous protection granted by God for those who observe religious practices. 

After her death, she became a beloved local saint, and her shrine in Eben is a pilgrimage site.

St. Ailbhe

St. Ailbhe, also known as St. Ailbe or Albeus, is regarded as one of the early Irish saints and a key figure in the spread of Christianity in Ireland during the 5th and 6th centuries. He was born around 450 AD in Munster, Ireland. Legend says he was abandoned as a baby and was found and raised by a wolf, a story often compared to the myth of Romulus and Remus. Later, a Christian man discovered him and took him in, eventually leading to Ailbhe’s Christian upbringing.

Ailbhe was a disciple of St. Patrick and played a crucial role in the conversion of the Irish people, particularly in the southern parts of the country. He eventually became the first bishop of Emly, a diocese in Munster, where he founded a famous monastery that became a center for religious teaching.

Important Incident

The incident that made St. Ailbhe famous is tied to his encounter with King Aengus of Munster. According to tradition, Ailbhe helped convert King Aengus and his court to Christianity, solidifying the Christian faith in that region. This conversion played a significant role in establishing Christianity as a dominant religion in Munster. Additionally, Ailbhe's association with miracles and his reputation as a holy man spread his fame beyond Ireland.

St. Ailbhe’s feast day is celebrated on September 12. He is revered as one of the "Twelve Apostles of Ireland" and is a significant figure in Irish Christian history.

St. Paphnutius

 St. Paphnutius of Thebes was a 4th-century Egyptian bishop and an important figure in the early Christian Church, especially known for his role in defending orthodox teachings and promoting leniency in church practices.

 Early Life and Monasticism:

Paphnutius was originally a monk in the Egyptian desert under the guidance of St. Anthony the Great. His time in the desert made him well-known for his ascetic lifestyle and deep spirituality. Eventually, he was consecrated as a bishop of a diocese in the Upper Thebaid (Egypt).

 Role in Persecution and Suffering:

During the reign of the Roman Emperor Maximinus Daia, Paphnutius was arrested and persecuted for his Christian faith. He was severely tortured, losing his right eye, and his left leg was hamstrung. Despite these sufferings, he remained steadfast in his faith, which earned him great respect among both clergy and laity.

 Council of Nicaea (325 AD):

The most significant event that brought Paphnutius widespread recognition was his role in the First Council of Nicaea. This council, convened by Emperor Constantine, aimed to resolve disputes in the Christian Church, particularly over the Arian heresy.

Paphnutius famously defended the clergy's right to marry. At the time, some bishops proposed that all clergy, even those married before ordination, should adopt celibacy. Paphnutius, who was himself celibate, argued that married priests should not be required to separate from their wives, stating that marriage was honorable and supported by scripture. His appeal was accepted, and the council decided not to impose mandatory celibacy on married clergy, a significant decision in the history of the Church.

 Legacy:

St. Paphnutius is remembered as a staunch defender of orthodoxy, a compassionate advocate for leniency regarding clerical marriage, and a symbol of Christian endurance during persecution. His contributions to the Council of Nicaea helped shape the early practices of the Church.

His feast day is celebrated on September 11.

St. Peter Claver

 St. Peter Claver: The Slave of the Slaves

Born: June 26, 1580, Verdú, Spain  

Died: September 8, 1654, Cartagena, Colombia  

Feast Day: September 9

Patron Saint of: Slaves, African missions, Colombia, and African Americans.

Early Life and Calling

St. Peter Claver was born into a devout Catholic family in Spain. He joined the Society of Jesus (Jesuits) in 1602 and completed his studies in Barcelona. Influenced by St. Alphonsus Rodriguez, a Jesuit lay brother who encouraged him to serve in the missions, Claver felt a strong calling to help the African slaves being transported to the Americas. In 1610, he traveled to Cartagena, a major hub in the transatlantic slave trade.

Ministry in Cartagena

Cartagena was infamous for its role in the brutal slave trade, and it was here that St. Peter Claver would spend the next 40 years of his life ministering to African slaves. When slave ships arrived, Claver would meet them at the docks with food, water, and medicine. He would also baptize the slaves, offering them spiritual comfort amidst their immense suffering. Claver is said to have baptized over 300,000 individuals during his lifetime.

Key Events and Achievements

1. Ministering on Slave Ships: One of the most significant aspects of Claver’s ministry was his work aboard the slave ships. Upon their arrival, he tended to the sick and dying, offering care that no one else would provide. His compassion was a source of solace for those who were treated inhumanely.

2. Baptisms and Catechism: Claver’s primary focus was to baptize the enslaved Africans, ensuring that they received the sacraments. He would also teach them about Christianity in a simplified manner that transcended language barriers. His efforts brought thousands into the Catholic faith.

3. Defender of Human Rights: Claver fought for the humane treatment of the enslaved, urging local authorities and slave owners to treat them with dignity. Though his efforts were often ignored by the ruling classes, his advocacy left a profound moral impact on society.

4. Legacy of Compassion: Claver’s dedication to the oppressed earned him the title of "Apostle of Cartagena." Despite facing ridicule and opposition, he continued his work for decades, never abandoning the people he served. After his death, his legacy of compassion and justice for the marginalized spread widely.

Canonization and Legacy

St. Peter Claver was canonized in 1888 by Pope Leo XIII. He remains a powerful symbol of selfless service and advocacy for the dignity of all people, particularly those subjected to oppression. His life and mission continue to inspire movements for social justice, particularly in the fight against slavery and human trafficking.

In 1985, Pope John Paul II visited Cartagena and called Claver a model for all who seek to defend human rights.

The Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary

 The Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary is celebrated on September 8th, marking the birth of Mary, the mother of Jesus. This feast is observed by many Christian denominations, but it holds particular significance in the Catholic Church. It celebrates the role of Mary in salvation history, especially as the one chosen by God to bear His Son, Jesus Christ. Tradition teaches that Mary's birth brought great joy to her parents, Saints Joachim and Anne, as well as to the world, since she was destined to become the Mother of the Savior. This feast is one of the oldest Marian celebrations, dating back to the 6th century.

 Feast of Our Lady of Velankanni

The feast of Our Lady of Velankanni, also celebrated on September 8th, coincides with the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary. Velankanni is a coastal town in Tamil Nadu, India, and is home to the Basilica of Our Lady of Good Health, one of the most revered Marian shrines in the world. The feast celebrates the apparitions of the Blessed Virgin Mary in Velankanni, where she is said to have appeared to both a young shepherd boy and a lame boy in the 16th century. Tradition holds that through Mary's intercession, miraculous healings took place, which led to the construction of the shrine.

Significance of the Feast

The Velankanni feast draws millions of pilgrims from all over India and the world, especially from different religious backgrounds. It’s a symbol of unity and faith, as people from various walks of life come together to seek the blessings of Our Lady. The celebration lasts for nine days, marked by prayers, processions, and special Masses.

The combination of the Nativity of Mary and the feast of Our Lady of Velankanni makes September 8th a day of profound Marian devotion, underscoring Mary’s significance in the lives of Catholics and devotees of all faiths.

St.Cloud

 St. Cloud, also known as **St. Clodoald**, was a 6th-century French prince and monk. He was the grandson of the powerful King Clovis I, the first King of the Franks to unite all Frankish tribes under one ruler and the first to convert to Christianity. 

### Biography:

St. Cloud was born around **522 AD** to **Clodomir**, King of Orléans, one of the sons of Clovis I. After Clodomir's death in battle in **524 AD**, his three sons, including Clodoald, were left vulnerable in the political struggles for power. His two brothers were killed by their uncles, Childebert I and Clotaire I, who sought control of the Frankish kingdom. 

However, Clodoald escaped the massacre, reportedly smuggled out of the palace and raised in safety. Instead of pursuing vengeance or reclaiming his royal rights, Clodoald chose a religious life. He renounced the throne, cut his hair (symbolic of renouncing his royalty), and became a monk under the mentorship of St. Severinus. Clodoald lived a life of prayer, poverty, and humility.

Later, Clodoald moved to a quiet area near Paris, where he founded a monastery and lived a holy, ascetic life. His reputation for holiness and his commitment to monasticism drew many disciples. He died in **560 AD** and became one of the most popular saints in France, with several churches and towns (including St. Cloud near Paris) named in his honor.

### Important Events and Why He Became Popular:

1. **Royalty to Monasticism**: Clodoald’s decision to renounce his royal title and power in favor of a life of humility and service left a strong impression on the people. His choice was seen as a powerful act of faith and humility, which set an example for both laypeople and the nobility.

2. **Surviving the Massacre of His Brothers**: His survival of a family tragedy and the massacre of his brothers added to his story of perseverance and divine providence. His escape and dedication to a religious life symbolized overcoming the desire for revenge, a stark contrast to the violence of the time.

3. **Miracles and Healing**: After his death, several miracles were attributed to him, particularly in healing illnesses, which increased his veneration among the faithful. 

4. **Influence in Monasticism**: As the founder of a monastery, St. Cloud contributed to the monastic movement in France, and his spiritual leadership influenced many in the region. His life as a monk became a model of piety and humility for future generations.

St. Cloud’s feast day is celebrated on **September 7**, and his legacy as a saintly prince who renounced the world continues to inspire people today.

St. Eleutherius

 St. Eleutherius is a name shared by several saints, but the most notable one is **St. Eleutherius of Illyricum**, a 2nd-century bishop and martyr.

Biography:

St. Eleutherius was born in Illyricum (modern-day Balkans) to a noble Roman family. His mother, Anthia, was a Christian, which greatly influenced his upbringing. At a young age, Eleutherius showed a deep commitment to his faith, leading to his appointment as a deacon, and later, a bishop of Messina in Sicily, while still quite young, around 20 years old.
During his episcopate, he worked tirelessly to spread Christianity, particularly in regions hostile to the faith. His reputation for holiness and leadership attracted attention from the Roman authorities during a time of Christian persecution under Emperor Hadrian. Eleutherius was arrested for his Christian beliefs and brought before the emperor.
Despite various tortures, Eleutherius refused to renounce his faith. Ultimately, both he and his mother, Anthia, were martyred, with Eleutherius beheaded around AD 120.

Significance of His Life:

1. Model of Early Christian Zeal: Eleutherius' life reflects the fervor of early Christian leaders who played pivotal roles in spreading Christianity across the Roman Empire.

2. Martyrdom: His steadfast refusal to abandon his faith in the face of brutal persecution became a powerful testament to Christian conviction during a time of widespread oppression. His martyrdom, alongside his mother, highlights the strong family devotion to faith.

3. Patronage: St. Eleutherius is venerated as a protector against physical ailments, especially hernias, and is often invoked for healing.

His life stands as a symbol of youthful leadership in the Church, dedication to the Gospel, and courage in the face of adversity. His feast day is celebrated on September 6.

St. Mother Teresa of Calcutta

 

St. Mother Teresa of Calcutta (1910–1997) was a Roman Catholic nun and missionary who became a global symbol of compassion and charity. Born as Anjezë Gonxhe Bojaxhiu in Skopje, Macedonia, she felt a strong calling to religious life from an early age. At 18, she joined the Sisters of Loreto in Ireland and was sent to India, where she began teaching at St. Mary’s High School in Calcutta (now Kolkata).

Early Life and Calling

Mother Teresa took her first religious vows in 1931 and later her solemn vows in 1937. For nearly 20 years, she taught at the school and was appointed its headmistress. However, in 1946, during a train ride to the Loreto convent in Darjeeling, she experienced what she described as a "call within a call." She felt compelled to leave her position and work directly with the poorest of the poor in the slums of Calcutta.

Missionaries of Charity

In 1950, with permission from the Vatican, she founded the Missionaries of Charity, a congregation dedicated to serving the most destitute. The order began with 12 members and grew to include thousands of nuns and brothers, serving in over 130 countries. They cared for the sick, the dying, orphans, lepers, and those suffering from AIDS, embodying Christ’s message of love and compassion.

Living Saint

Mother Teresa's lifestyle was marked by her radical commitment to the poor and her profound spiritual devotion. She lived a life of poverty, chastity, and obedience, emulating Christ’s love for humanity. Her work earned her numerous accolades, including the Nobel Peace Prize in 1979. Despite facing criticism for her views on abortion and her methods of care, she remained a figure of deep respect and admiration. Her unwavering dedication to serving the marginalized led to her being called a "living saint" during her lifetime.

Significance

Mother Teresa's significance lies in her embodiment of Christian love in action. She taught the world that holiness could be found in the smallest acts of kindness and that every person, no matter how destitute, possesses inherent dignity. Her life challenges the modern world to look beyond materialism and see the face of God in the poor and suffering.

Canonization

Mother Teresa passed away on September 5, 1997. She was beatified by Pope John Paul II in 2003 and canonized by Pope Francis on September 4, 2016, becoming St. Teresa of Calcutta. Her feast day is celebrated on September 5, the anniversary of her death.

Her legacy continues through the ongoing work of the Missionaries of Charity and her influence on countless people inspired to serve others in their daily lives.

St. Rosalia

Biography:

St. Rosalia, also known as "La Santuzza," was born in Palermo, Sicily, around 1130 AD. She was of noble birth, reportedly the daughter of Sinibald, Lord of Quisquina and Rosa, a descendant of Charlemagne. Despite her privileged background, Rosalia chose a life of solitude and deep devotion to God. At a young age, she decided to dedicate her life to Christ, rejecting worldly pleasures and material wealth.

Rosalia spent her early years as a hermit in a cave on Mount Quisquina, living in prayer and penance. Later, she moved to a cave on Mount Pellegrino, near Palermo, where she continued her ascetic lifestyle until her death around 1166 AD. According to tradition, she was led by divine inspiration to the cave, where she carved an inscription in the rock, declaring her life dedicated to Christ. She lived there in complete isolation, devoted to prayer, fasting, and contemplation, until she passed away.

Significant Events

1. The Discovery of Her Relics (1624):

   St. Rosalia remained relatively unknown until the 17th century. In 1624, during a devastating plague in Palermo, a hunter discovered her relics in a cave on Mount Pellegrino. Following this, Rosalia reportedly appeared in visions to local inhabitants, instructing them to carry her bones in a procession through the city to end the plague. When this was done, the plague miraculously ceased. This event marked the beginning of her widespread veneration.

2. The Establishment of Her Feast Day:

   After the miraculous end of the plague, St. Rosalia was quickly recognized as the patron saint of Palermo. Her feast day is celebrated on September 4th, with elaborate religious processions, including carrying a statue of St. Rosalia through the streets of Palermo. The city's residents have remained devoted to her ever since, considering her their protector.

3. Mount Pellegrino Pilgrimage:

   Mount Pellegrino, where Rosalia spent her final years, has become a major pilgrimage site. The cave where her relics were found has been transformed into a sanctuary. Pilgrims from all over the world visit the site, especially during her feast day, to seek her intercession and to honor her life of holiness.

4. Artistic and Cultural Legacy:

   St. Rosalia has been depicted in numerous works of art, including paintings, statues, and literature. One of the most famous depictions of her is by the Italian painter Anthony van Dyck, who created a series of paintings of the saint during the 1620s. Her image has become a symbol of faith and divine protection, especially for the people of Palermo.

These events solidified St. Rosalia’s place as a significant figure in Catholic tradition and as a symbol of hope and healing. Her life of devotion and the miraculous events associated with her have inspired countless believers and have made her one of the most beloved saints in Sicily.

St. Zenon, Martyr of Nicomedia

St. Zenon, Martyr of Nicomedia

Feast Day: September 2

Biography:

St. Zenon was a soldier in the Roman army stationed at Nicomedia (modern-day Izmit, Turkey) during the reign of Emperor Diocletian (284-305 AD). Despite his position, Zenon was a devout Christian, which was a dangerous stance during a time of intense persecution against Christians. Nicomedia, as the imperial city, was a focal point for the emperor's anti-Christian policies, making it a particularly perilous place for Christians.

Zenon was known for his bravery and deep faith. life of piety and his commitment to the teachings of Christ were well-recognized by his fellow soldiers and citizens. However, his steadfastness in the faith eventually led to his arrest during the persecution of Christians initiated by Diocletian.

Important Incident:

The key event that led to St. Zenon's martyrdom and lasting fame occurred when he publicly condemned the emperor’s persecution of Christians. During a public spectacle in the arena, where the emperor was present, Zenon boldly rebuked Diocletian, denouncing the inhuman treatment of Christians and urging the emperor to abandon idolatry.

This act of defiance did not go unnoticed. Zenon’s courage inspired many but also sealed his fate. He was arrested, subjected to cruel tortures, and ultimately executed by being beheaded. His martyrdom, however, became a powerful testament to the Christian faith, and he was venerated as a saint by the early Church.

St. Zenon is remembered as a model of courage and steadfast faith, someone who chose to stand up for his beliefs in the face of certain death. His story continues to inspire Christians to live out their faith boldly, regardless of the consequences.