Memorial of Saints (July 31)

St. Ignatius of Loyola was converted from a worldly career to a life of holiness in Christ after he was wounded seriously in battle in 1521 A.D. Upon recuperating at his family's castle, he read books on the Lives of the Saints and a Life on Christ. This reading inspired him deeply that he searched more into the spiritual life. From his spiritual experiences, he wrote a guidebook on meditation called "The Spiritual Exercises". This was to be instrumental in his obtaining followers, and founding of the Jesuit Order. Through his leadership, the Jesuits influenced much of Europe and the rest of the world. The Jesuits evangelized many people in their missions and educated leaders through their education system. St. Ignatius spent the rest of his years in Rome, where he directed the members of the Order (died ca. 1556 A.D.).

St. Neot was a monk at Glastorbury, England. He was ordained a cleric and decided to become a hermit in Cornwall (which is now known as St. Neot). Because of his exemplary life of holiness, his relative, King Alfred, went to visit him to seek his advice. Nothing else is known about St. Neot's life except that he was the reason Cornwall, England came to be known as St. Neot (died ca. 880 A.D.).

St. Helen of Skövde was a Swedish noblewoman who gave her possessions to the poor upon the death of her husband. She then made a pilgrimage to Rome, but upon her return to Sweden, she was accused of the death of her son-in-law. Though she was executed for a crime she never committed, it was later discovered that her son-in-law had been murdered by his own servants. Miracles were reported to have numerously happened at her tomb (died ca. 1160 A.D.).

St. Germanus of Auxerre studied in Gallic schools and pursued a legal profession in Rome. In 418 A.D., he was named bishop of Auxerre. Upon his ascent to the episcopate, he led a holy life and worked for the good of his diocese. St. Germanus was a strong defender of the Church against the Pelagian heresy. And aside from combatting this heresy, he also had to contend with hostile groups like the Picts, the Saxons and other savage tribes (died ca. 448 A.D.).

St. Justin de Jacobis joined the Vincentians and was ordained. He served as local superior in Lecce before he was sent to the Catholic mission at Adua, Ethiopia. Though he had difficulties at first, he was able to meet the Pope in Rome. After the meeting with the Pope, St. Justin founded a college and seminary in his mission. By 1853 A.D., there were some five thousand Catholic Ethiopians. However, in 1860 A.D., a new king launched a persecution against the Catholics. St. Justin was arrested. After months in prison, he was released and was able to find his way to Eritrea, where he spent his last years (died ca. 1860 A.D.).

St. Peter Chrysologus: Bishop and Doctor of the Church

St. Peter Chrysologus, Bishop and Doctor, ca. 406-450 A.D.

"The golden-worded"

Like St. John Chrysostom, who earned the surname "Chrysostom", which means "golden tongue", St. Peter Chrysologus also earned his surname "Chrysologus", which means "the golden-worded" or "golden-speaker", because of his great eloquence and preaching abilities.

Born at Imola and chosen bishop of Ravenna

St. Peter was born at Imola, Emilia, in Italy and studied Sacred Theology under Bishop Cornelius of Imola - who also ordained him as deacon. St. Peter's election as bishop of Ravenna was a surprise and founded on legend. The story goes like this. The people of Ravenna have already elected their bishop. However, Pope St. Sixtus III refused the one elected by the people and instead chose St. Peter Chrysologus. This was because of a vision the Pope had of St. Appolinarius (first bishop of Ravenna), who told him to choose Peter Chrysologus. That was the legend.

In his position then as bishop of Ravenna, St. Peter set out to reform his diocese and free it from paganism. His first sermon impressed the Empress Galla Placidia so much that she gave her all out support for Peter's ambitious building projects.

St. Peter Chrysologus' sermons

The homilies of St. Peter were short; he did not want to tire his listeners. But his sermons were greatly known as being powerful that he was named Doctor of the Church by Pope Benedict XIII in 1729 A.D. Peter's sermons were collected by Bishop Felix of Ravenna in the eighth century. There are about one hundred seventy-six of these existing today. They cover biblical texts, the Apostles' Creed, sermons on the Blessed Virgin and other themes. Though these written sermons cannot indicate the intensity and fervor by which he preached and delivered them, there are of him preaching with such vehemence that he became speechless at certain times because of great excitement.

Feast day is July 30

In ca. 450 A.D., Peter received a revelation of his approaching death and decided to return to his home town in Imola. He died at Imola on July 31 and his feast is celebrated as an optional memorial in the Church's liturgical calendar every July 30.

His Lenten sermon and teaching

Probably one of his best sermons is the Lenten sermon he composed about prayer, fasting, and mercy. This Lenten sermon of St. Peter Chrysologus is also found in the non-biblical section of readings at the back pages of the breviary. What St. Peter says in this Lenten sermon is simple, but when applied to one's Christian life, is powerfully effective. He says in this sermon:


"There are three things, my brethren, by which faith stands firm, devotion remains constant, and virtue endures. They are prayer, fasting, and mercy. Prayer knocks at the door, fasting obtains, mercy receives. Prayer, fasting and mercy: these three are one, and they give life to each other."

Related resources:

• Dictionary of Saints, by John J. Delaney


• "A Year with the Saints" by Don Bosco Press, Inc.


• "Doctors of the Church" by Fink


• "Saints for Our Time" by Ransom

17th Sunday of the Year (A)

(Edited) Sunday reflections: (From) years 2014 (A), 2015 (B), and 2016 (C)

July 27, 2014
Liturgical readings
1 Kings 3:5, 7-12
Psalm 119
Romans 8:28-30
Matthew 13:44-52

"The reign of God is like a merchant's search for fine pearls."

One of the favorite themes of Jesus' preaching is the "reign of God" or the "kingdom of heaven". Both point to an eternal reality - one that is gift and mystery. Since this truth is beyond our capacity to understand, the Lord refers to it by means of parables. Through parables, Jesus speaks familiar realities to ordinary people of His time. Parables give glimpses of what the kingdom of heaven is. Shepherds, merchants, and fishermen easily understand when the Lord speaks to them of "a buried treasure", "a merchant's search for fine pearls" and "a dragnet that collects all sorts of things from the lake".

In relation to this, the Catechism of the Church says that everyone is called to the kingdom of God, because the Catholic Church is an inclusive spiritual family. She wants to extend the good news of salvation to all. This good news is proclaimed daily in the Mass, and it is brought to mission lands where the faith has not yet taken root. As with Christ, the missionaries bring the good news of God's kingdom to the "shepherds", "merchants" and "fishermen" of our present generation. Hearing the good news, they learn the truth of the kingdom by becoming Christians (Catechism #543-546).

Many seasoned Catholics educated in Catholic schools, are fortunate due to their roots in family and school. Since youth, these seasoned Catholics have been educated with a world of meaning directed to what is essential - the "search for fine pearls". These pearls are simply the wisdom, joy, peace, and perseverance needed in the journey of faith and life. In these perilous times, these "spiritual pearls" can provide the vision and wisdom to follow the Lord's light, and avoid paths to darkness and sin. The practice of the Church and human experiences continue to shepherd seasoned Catholics towards God's kingdom. Seasoned Catholics are given much; and so they are required to contribute to the mission of the Church in any way they can.

Scripture quotes for reflection:
"We know that God makes all things work together for the good of those who love Him, who have been called according to His decree." (Romans 8)

Saints and Spiritual Friendship: by Neill, Chervin, Galilea

Saints as Great Friends

"Great Saints Great Friends" by Mary Neill, O.P., and Ronda Chervin, is a book on the lives of 11 Saints. Like Segundo Galilea in his book, "The Friendship of God", Neill and Chervin sees the Saints as sources of spiritual friendship in the interior life. The Saints author Segundo Galilea features in his book are:

St. Francis of Assisi,
St. Catherine of Siena,
Julian of Norwich,
St. Thomas More,
St. Ignatius of Loyola,
St. Francis Xavier,
St. Teresa of Avila,
St. John of the Cross,
St. Rose of Lima,
the Priest of Ars (John Vianney),
Cardinal John Newman,
St. Frances Xavier Cabrini,
St. Therese of Lisieux,
and Sts. Cecilia, Agatha, Agnes and Lucy.

Neill and Chervin, like Galilea, also write on

St. Francis of Assisi,
St. Catherine of Siena,
St. Thomas More,
St. Teresa of Avila,
St. John of the Cross,
and St. Therese of Lisieux.

The five other saints the two authors include, but which Segundo Galilea did not have in his selection are:

St. Paul the Apostle,
St. Thomas Aquinas,
St. Joan of Arc,
St. Bernadette of Lourdes
and St. Elizabeth Seton.

Segundo Galilea

In his book, Galilea's focus is not on the Saints themselves, but as an added feature and concluding section to his major topic, "The Friendship of God: Christianity as Friendship". Galilea presented a spirituality of friendship in the Christian faith, with human friendship as a window to see God's friendship with His people. The Saints Galilea selects in this book are his favorites, with whom he has special interests and devotions.

Dr. Ronda Chervin and Sr. Mary Neill, O.P.

These two authors divided the chapters of their book with each one writing on Saints they have a special devotion to. Chervin writes on St. Paul, St. Francis of Assisi, St. Catherine of Siena, St. Teresa of Avila, St. John of the Cross, and St. Elizabeth Seton. Neill, on the other hand, writes on: St. Thomas Aquinas, St. Joan of Arc, St. Thomas More, St. Bernadette of Lourdes and St. Therese of Liseiux. Both authors have written well by showing how the Saints are not only holy, but human. It is their ardent commitment to Christ that has raised the level of their prayer and way of life to heights beyond the average Christian. These Saints are described by the two authors as "God Seekers", for they have sought the Lord with their whole mind, heart, soul and strength. It is by their perseverance in faith that they were able to create a profound impact on countless generations of men and women.

Presentation of each Saint's life and work:

Each chapter written by Chervin and Neill contains a brief description of each saint's life story. The description is then followed by a discussion on how each Saint's life influenced the modern believer. Both authors are able to capture the minds of the modern believer by their own journeys in life. Dr. Ronda Chervin is a wife, mother, professor, author and international lecturer. Sr. Mary Neill, OP, is a professor, workshop director, lecturer and co-director of Inner Explorations.

Excellent spiritual reading

Aside from the Scriptures, the lives of the Saints and other spiritual content reading help to reground one's state of life in what is truly important. Refocusing and recentering one's life in God is very important in a world that has a lot of distractions. Spiritual reading is the key to regain one's center in God. These two books by Neill and Chervin, and by Galilea will remind any soul that his relationship with God and the Church is a sure guide to what is important in one's life and work.

Memorial of Saints (July 24)

St. Declan was one of the bishops ministering to the Irish peoples before St. Patrick arrived in Ireland. Having studied in Gaul, he returned to Ireland and was consecrated to the episcopate. He founded the church of Ardmore where he is said to have built a monastery, a hermitage, and a holy well. There is also an ancient stone on a beach in Ardmore. The stone, which is the size of a boulder, is visited by numerous pilgrims during what they call "Pattern Week". These are the many stories in tradition connected with St. Declan. The holy bishop spent his last years in a hermit's cell before returning to the main settlement he built at Ardmore (died early 6th century A.D.).

St. Christina was converted to the Christian faith as a young girl. After her conversion, she destroyed the pagan images of her father. In anger, her father tied a rock around her neck and threw her into Lake Bolsena. She was however miraculously saved. Taken captive again, her tongue was cut out. She was placed in a furnace for five days, and then was executed by arrows (died 3rd century A.D.).

St. Lewina was a British woman martyred by the invading Saxon army. The story of her martyrdom was discovered in 1058 A.D. when her relics and those of St. Ideberga were transferred from a church at Seaford, Sussex, to St. Winnoc's at Bergues, Flanders (date of death unknown).

Sts. Boris and Gleb were sons of Vladimir of Kiev. After the death of their father, Boris learned of the plan of another brother to defraud him and Gleb of their inheritance. Avoiding what could be a great conflict in the family, and the use of unnecessary force, Boris went to a deserted place to pray. But his brother's followers found him and stabbed him to death with a sword. Gleb was also stabbed to death in Kiev. Another brother of Boris and Gleb got hold of their bodies and buried them in St. Basil's Church. Miracles were reported at their graves. St. Boris is the patron saint of Moscow (died ca. 1015 A.D.).

St. Christina the Astonishing was a Belgian who had an epileptic fit at twenty-one and by all appearances seemed to have died. When a Mass was being said for her, she soared to the roof of the church until the priest ordered her to come down. She reported to the priest that her soul had been to hell, purgatory and heaven, but was ordered to return to earth to pray for the poor souls of purgatory. This is only one of the incredible events that happened in St. Christina's life. She spent the last years of her life in St. Catherine's convent at Saint-Trond (died ca. 1224 A.D.).

St. Christina of Tyre was a martyr. Since she was devoutly Christian, she did not want to sacrifice to the pagan gods to save her life from execution by the pagan authorities. She was thus subjected to the most cruel tortures done in her times: a fire was lit under her; her breasts were cut off; her tongue was cut off; and she was thrown into the sea. When she miraculously survived all these tortures, she was executed with an arrow shot directly through her heart (date of death unknown).

St. John Boste studied at Queen's College, Oxford, England. He became Catholic in 1576 A.D. and was ordained in 1581 A.D. Sent on a mission to minister to the Catholics of northern England, he became wanted by the English authorities. After being found by them, he was arrested and tortured on the rack. This torture crippled him. He was however able to return to Durham but was eventually arrested again and condemned to death for his priesthood. He is one of the Martyrs of Durham (died ca. 1594 A.D.).

16th Sunday of the Year (A)

(Edited) Sunday reflections: (From) Years 2014 (A), 2015 (B), and 2016 (C)

July 20, 2014
Liturgical readings
Wisdom 12:13, 16-19
Psalm 86
Romans 8:26-27
Matthew 13:24-43

"The field-owner said: 'No, don't pull up the weeds...you might take the wheat along with them...wait until harvest'."

In a world that is highly educated in science and technology, God's wisdom in the Scriptures, and common sense wisdom in practical living are still highly valid and valued. God's wisdom reminds all of many unseen spiritual forces - some beneficial, some detrimental, to health of both soul and body. The "good forces" come from God, while the "destructive forces" are from the Ancient Enemy. This battle between good and evil is the cause of many conflicts in the world. For the conflicts are caused by the battle in every soul; and the turmoil caused by the battle spills over to others and the environment. So the gospel calls all today to be wise, patient and practical in this battle.

This battle between good and evil is explained well in the spiritual classic, the "Imitation of Christ", written by Thomas á Kempis. The author writes:

"You must realize that your Ancient Enemy is striving in every way to disturb the good state of your desires, and to turn you against every exercise of devotion...against vigilance over your heart and a firm resolve to make progress in goodness. He supplies many evil thoughts to make you feel restlessness and revulsion, to keep you back from prayer...He has no liking for humble confession, and if he could, he would see that you stopped making your communion." (Imitation, Book 3, chapter VI).

To choose Christ in a world where many are becoming enemies of Christ and the Church, is a vocation. In this vocation, the Ancient Enemy tempts all that he can so they lose heart and become anxious of an uncertain future (which many news online presents). Sometimes, the temptation is directed so that one would rely only on one's strength and intellect, (and that of others), and forget that there is a God whose will and wisdom is greater than all. There is no need to be overwhelmed by the struggle. All that is needed is to "slow down", and to remember the wisdom of the Gospel: Patience. To be patient with others, but most of all to be patient with one's self, is the key. The Lord had been patient with all humanity until now. It is in Him that one's patience will bear much fruit against all evil that seeks only destruction.

Scripture quotes for reflection:
"The Lord gave His sons good ground for hope; He would permit repentance for their sins." (Wisdom 12)

Hearts on Fire: Praying With Jesuits

"Hearts on Fire: Praying with Jesuits", edited by Michael Harter, SJ

A good meditative guide for praying in the spirit of the Ignatian Spiritual Exercises. What is new in this style of presenting St. Ignatius' Spiritual Exercises is the contemporary translation of the method into popular literary forms: prayers and prose written by Jesuits - both "classic", like Gerard Manley Hopkins, SJ, and contemporary, like Anthony de Mello, SJ.

The original Spiritual Exercises of Saint Ignatius of Loyola was written in terse and concise language meant as a handbook and guide for Jesuit spiritual directors in leading their retreat work.

Since this is a popular presentation, many readers familiar with the 30-day retreat given by the Jesuits, can now have this simple prayer and meditation guide to understand in depth the Spiritual Exercises of St. Ignatius.

The structure of the book

The Spiritual Exercises of Saint Ignatius of Loyola are divided into four weeks. The Hearts on Fire book organized all the prayers and prose and structured it also according to the four weeks:

These are the themes which the book presents:

the First Week: to help us realize how much we are loved by God and how much we have been poor in this response to this love;

the Second Week: to help us contemplate on the life and ministry of Jesus;

the Third Week: to help us contemplate on the Passion of Jesus;

and the Fourth Week: to help us contemplate on the Resurrection and the joy of sharing in that gift.

Featured Jesuit writers and authors in the book

• Gerald Manley Hopkins
• Saint Francis Xavier
• Saint Claude La Colombiere
• Saint Peter Canisius
• Blessed Peter Faber
• Saint Ignatius Loyola
• Blessed Miguel Augustine Pro
• Saint Alphonse Rodriguez
• Saint Robert Southwell
• Saint Joseph Pignatelli
• Jean-Pierre de Caussade
• Saint Edmund Campion
• Saint Edmund Arrowsmith
• Saint Peter Claver
• Saint Aloysius Gonzaga
• Saint John Berchmans

Also featuring contemporary Jesuit writers and authors in the book

• Carlo Maria Martini
• David L. Fleming
• Joseph Tetlow
• Anthony de Mello
• Daniel Berrigan
• Karl Rahner
• Jean-Pierre Médaille
• John Powell
• Leo Rock
• John Veltri
• Pierre Teilhard de Chardin
• Daniel A. Lord
• Michael Moynahan
• William Breault
• David J. Hassel
• Armand Nigro
• John Eagan
• Pedro Arrupe
• John Futrell
• Stephen Privett
• Ignacio Martin-Baro
• John J. Morris
• Louis J. McCabe and Philip G. Steele

15th Sunday of the Year (A)

(Edited) Sunday reflections for liturgical years 2014 (A), 2015 (B), and 2016 (C)

July 13, 2014
Liturgical readings
Isaiah 55:10-11
Psalm 65
Romans 8:18-23
Matthew 13:1-23

The Lord said: "Mark well, then, the parable of the Sower."

Matthew's gospel helps to see the importance of God's Word - how it can produce fidelity to God, Church, family, and work. Each day is a challenge to produce a harvest not only for the family and the corporation, but most of all, for the Lord: to cultivate patience, kindness in the workplace, and prudence especially for a perilous time such as now. Prayer and the wisdom of experience teaches better ways to do one's job each day. Not all days are good. There can be misunderstanding, faith without depth, and anxiety-ridden situations that can choke off one's faith in God's Word. But if all strive to be "good soil", the Lord will certainly bless the work of everyone's hands.

Many lives prove that it is possible to hear God's Word and to live lives that are life-giving to others. The ordinary example of kind people around one's life and work is enough. St. Francis de Sales, the one who wrote "Introduction to the Devout Life", has an inspiring image in his book that proves being "good soil" is possible in the midst of a world where all sorts of vices and evils is seen or experienced. Below is St. Francis de Sales' quote:

"Just as fireflies pass through flames without burning their wings;
even so, a resolute person can live in the world without submitting
to its influence. He can fly through the flames of earthly attractions
without burning the wings of the holy desires of a devout life."

The temptation to lose patience, to worry or be anxiety-ridden of an uncertain future, due to disruptional change and environmental upheavals, can really "burn anyone's wings", if one is not careful. Resolution is the key. To be resolved to believe in Christ's word. Jesus says it well in the gospel: "Mark well, then, the parable of the Sower". Jesus repeats the central and important place of God's Word in our lives. To fully trust in His Word and His will can help avoid anxiety or fruitlessness in any work effort or responsibility in life. Placing one's life, work and family in the Lord's care will make all attentive to His word and let it achieve the the good harvest He wills of it.

Scripture quotes for reflection:
"God's Word shall not return to Him void, but shall do His will, achieving the end for which He sent it." (Isaiah 55)

Memorial of Saints (July 17)

St. Frederick became a priest at Utrecht and became known for his holiness and learning. Elected bishop in 825 A.D., he worked to put his diocese in order. He even sent missionaries to evangelize the pagan area in the northern part of his diocese. Because of his zeal, he got into loggerheads with the Empress, whom he reproached for her immorality. This may have caused his death from stab wounds. He was either killed by assassins sent by the Empress, or by pagans who resisted his evangelization activities (died ca. 838 A.D.).

The Blessed Martyrs of Campiegne were Carmelite nuns - 15 choir sisters and 3 lay sisters. After the French Revolution, all religious vows in France was not recognized by the law of the State. The sisters however decided to stay in their convent and not be involved with the new law of the State. In September 1792 A.D., the Sisters were ordered to leave their convent, and live as private citizens. When they refused to give up their religious way of living, they were arrested and imprisoned. They died as martyrs for the faith (died ca. 1794 A.D.).

St. Alexis married a wealthy Roman girl to please his parents. After his marriage, by mutual consent, he went to Syria and lived in solitude in a cell adjoined to a church dedicated to the Blessed Mother in Edessa. Because of the great austerities he practiced, when he went back home to his father, he was unrecognizable. Not knowing that the man was his son, his father gave him a job and a place to live under a staircase in his home. Unrecognized by all in his hometown, his identity was revealed only at his death when his autobiography was found and read (died ca. 5th century A.D.).

Sts. Marcellina, Speratus and Companions were the Sicilian martyrs. St. Marcellina was the sister of St. Ambrose, while St. Speratus was the spokesman for 4 other women and 6 other men. Arrested for being Christians, they were offered their freedom if they would give worship to the pagan gods. When they refused to renounce their Christian faith, they were sentenced to death. Theirs is the earliest existing account of martyrdom in the African Church (died ca. 180 A.D.).

St. Ennodius was married before he and his wife decided to part ways so that they can pursue vocations in the Church. Ennodius became a deacon, while his wife became a nun. In 514 A.D., Ennodius was appointed bishop of Ticinium. Although his political move to admonish the Emperor did not receive success, he was however successful in his help to the poor, in all his evangelical activities, and in building churches. He was also a prolific writer. Among his writings were: a biography on St. Antonius of Lerins, an autobiography, a handbook of rhetoric, poetry, and many letters of correspondence (died ca. 521 A.D.).

St. Kenelm was only seven years old when his father King Kenulf of Mercia died. Kenelm succeeded to his father's throne. However, his sister plotted to kill him so she could succeed to the throne. He was killed by Ascebert, his teacher. His dead body was enshrined in Gloucestershire. From then on, all kinds of marvels and miracles occurred at his grave (died ca. 812 A.D.).

St. Leo IV was elected Pope to succeed Sergius. He began to repair the fortifications of Rome to defend it against a possible Saracen attack. Leo IV was faced with many political problems to fix in his pontificate: the killing of his papal legate, the creation of a metropolitan see at Dol without his papal permission, and his refusal to confirm the political moves of Patriarch Ignatius of Constantinople. In 850 A.D., Leo IV crowned Louis, son of Emperor Lothair. In 853 A.D., he also crowned Alfred, son of King Ethelwulf of the West Saxons (died ca. 855 A.D.).

St. Clement of Okhrida became a bishop - the first Slav (from southern Macedonia) to become a bishop. Clement founded a monastery at Okhrida near Velitsa, Bulgaria. He received great success in his missionary work with the Bulgars that he came to be known as one of the Seven Apostles of Bulgaria (died ca. 916 A.D.).

St. Nerses Lampronazi was educated at Skeyra Monastery. After his father died, he was ordained but lived as a hermit for a time. In 1176 A.D., Nerses was consecrated archbishop of Tarsus. He worked for the reunion of the Armenian Church with Rome. This received success in 1198 A.D., but Nerses died six months after the reunion was officialized. St. Nerses was noted to also have translated St. Benedict of Nursia's Rule into Armenian (died ca. 1198 A.D.).

Blessed Hedwig of Poland succeeded to the throne of King Louis in 1382 A.D. She was married to a Lithuanian Duke - a marriage that began a 400-year alliance between Poland and Lithuania. Through the marriage, the Duke became a Christian and worked for the Christianization of the Lithuanian people. Blessed Hedwig died upon giving birth and is venerated by the Polish people (died ca. 1399 A.D.).

The Vita Apostolica in the High Middle Ages

Introduction

After the spiritual reform movement of Cluny in France, there were spiritual leaders who continued this reform movement. These were: St. Romuald of the Camaldolese Monk Hermits, and St. Bruno of the Carthusians, St. Nilus the Younger and St. John Gualbert (feast: July 12). These religious leaders and founders followed the ideal of the "vita apostolica". Other reformers also during this time were Robert of Abrissel and Vitalis of Tierceville. These leaders and many others worked in parts of Italy, north of the Alps, and much of Germany and France. The spiritual movement of reform they led brought a spirit of penitence and revived much religious fervor in Europe.

St. Nilus the Younger

Initially, Nilus lived a rather dissolute life with a woman from whom he had a child. When the woman and the child passed away, Nilus he joined the Byzantine Basilian monks of St. Adrian in Calabria, Italy. For a time, he lived as a hermit. Then he moved on to live in several Basilian monasteries until he became abbot of San Demetrio Corone. His saintly reputation spread and attracted many to become monks. In 981 A.D., Nilus was forced to flee due to the invading Saracens. He and his monks were given the monastery of Vallelucio. It was here were Nilus and his monks lived for about fifteen years. They soon were able to secure a grant of land from the Count of Tuscalum. This grant of land became the place to build and found the Basilian monastery of Grottaferra near Rome.

St. John Gualbert

John Gualbert was the founder of the Vallombrosian monks whose movement of spiritual rejuvenation began near Florence. Before this monastic community began, John entered the Benedictine monastery of San Miniato in Florence. He left this community and visited the hermitage of St. Romuald (founder of the Camaldolese Order). After this visit, John Gualbert decided to establish his own monastery. The place he chose was Vallombrosa. St. John Gualbert adopted a modified form of the primitive Rule of St. Benedict. His order had many members during the Middle Ages. This Order was reformed by St. John Leonardi in the 16th century.

Reform spirit overflows to secular clergy

The monastic reform movement that began at Cluny, and created the monastic Orders of Camaldolese, Carthusians, Vallambrosians, and Cistercians, also influenced the secular clergy at that time. And the canonical reform that occured in the 11th and 12th centuries brought a renewed pastoral spirit among the secular clerics. The most influential of these canonically reformed clergy were the Premonstratensians - founded by St. Norbert of Xanten.

Summary

The reform movement that started at the Benedictine monastery of Cluny gave birth to other reform movements - one of which was the "vita apostolica". Foremost among those who championed the "vita apostolica" ideal were: St. Nilus, St. John Gualbert, St. Romuald, and St. Bruno. This spirit of reform influenced St. Norbert of Xanten to found a monastery which was to serve as a community (not of monks) but of secular clergy living according to the Rule of St. Augustine.

Church History: Learning Shifts from Monasteries to the Universities

Centers of Learning: From Monasteries to Universities

In the early centuries of Christianity, the centers of learning were based in the monasteries. As Christianity entered the Middle Ages, learning shifted from the monasteries to the universities of Europe.

Monasticism defined

Monasticism has been understood as a "flight from the world" or in Latin, "fuga mundi". Some historians interpret this movement as a "protest" of the spiritually knowledgeable and intellectually inclined, against a sector of the Church that has become secularized by the many vices often seen in the cities. Many of those who followed this movement hurried off into the desert "to be alone with God". Although the response of these religious may be a negative reaction to what was happening to the faith in the cities, a positive way of seeing this phenomenon is the desire of these many Christians for greater solitude, quiet and a direction to better knowledge of God and His ways.

The proponents of monasticism

There were major proponents of this monastic movement. The foremost among these were: St. Anthony of the Desert, Pachomius, Basil the Great, and St. Benedict of Nursia.

St. Anthony of the Desert

St. Anthony (251-356 A.D.) lived as a hermit in the desert of Egypt - leaving all earthly securities after being inspired by a gospel passage. For 20 or so years, Anthony lived alone, and learned about the spiritual life from his victories against the temptations of the devil. By Anthony's complete trust and confidence in the providence of God, he eventually attracted followers who were interested in his way of life. This way of life soon became the origin for the anchorite or eremitical [hermit] way of life in the Christian faith.

Pachomius

Pachomius (287-347 A.D.) also followed the spiritual path of Anthony. Pachomius also began as a hermit but eventually introducted a new element in his way of life: a sense of community among the those who began as hermits. These community of hermits then began the cenobitic way of life where men in community shared in the life of silence, prayer, seclusion (solitary life in a cell), and meditation.

St. Basil and St. Benedict

From St. Anthony and Pachomius in the Egyptian desert, the movement spread all over the East and the West. Basil the Great (329-379 A.D.) drew up a rule which became accepted as a standard in Eastern monasticism. In the West, this movement was popularized by Benedict of Nursia (480-547 A.D.), who also wrote a rule for the monasteries he founded.

With the rules of St. Basil and St. Benedict, monasteries sprouted all over the Eastern and Western landscapes. Their flowering occured more intensely in the high Middle Ages when additional reforms were made to protect the monasteries from worldly influence. With a wave of reforms the monastic movement recovered and regained its focus on the spiritual and intellectual task of praying for the whole of Christendom.

Though the monks were basically secluded from public life, they preserved some openness to the world by pursuing scientific studies. It is in these studies, plus their intense prayer life, that the monastic movement and its centers became great sources of learning that influenced the spiritual and intellectual life of the people. Noted among these monasteries were the ones at Cluny, at Gorze in Lorraine, and also at Brogne, Hirsau, Siegburg, and Einsiedelm.

The monasteries educated the world in their time. They helped people understand the importance of religion in public life, and the role of the Church and the pope in the world. Their emphasis and focus on prayer helped people to learn how to place in proper context their relationship with God, and all human activity. People understood that God was to be the center of all life and human activity.

The universities of Europe

For a long time, the monasteries were centers of learning. Many studies were written and preserved by the monks that later provided voluminous scholarly resources for the whole of Christendom. From the time of Benedict and Basil, up to around 1200 A.D., learning came from the monasteries.

By 1200 A.D., starting with the influence of two missionary saints - St. Francis of Assisi and St. Dominic de Guzman - Christianity was brought out of the monastery and into the streets. Gradually, the centers of learning shifted from the monasteries to the newly developing universities of Europe. Great theologians who made scholarly studies became solid proponents of theological and scientific studies that initiated for the development of the university system. Those who spearheaded this movement were scholars like: St. Anselm of Canterbury, Gratian, Peter Lombard, St. Bernard of Clairvaux, St. Bonaventure and St. Thomas Aquinas. They moved the center of intellectual life and scholarly activity from the monasteries to the universities. Popular among these universities is the one at Paris; at Padua (1222 A.D.) and Naples (1224 A.D.) in Italy; Oxford and Cambridge in England; Valencia and Salamanca (1220 A.D.) in Spain; Prague (1348 A.D.), Vienna (1365 A.D.), Heidelberg (1386 A.D.), and Cologne (1388 A.D.). These universities sparked intellectual life all over Europe, became great centers of theological studies and science in general.

In many of these universities, philosophy and theology were of prime importance - most especially in the university at Paris. In Bologna, it was the school of law that was primary. But in general, the three primary schools in the universities were: theology, law and medicine. At the time, the acquisition of a doctoral degree from one of these universities meant equality with the nobility. The university as a center of learning truly ennobled a person - both in his Christian faith and in his knowledge of the sciences.

Related resources

• "A History of the Church", by August Franzen and John P. Dolan
• Saints for Our Time, by Ed Ransom

Memorial of Saints (July 10)

St. John Gualbert had an early Christian education, but did not practice it; he instead led a sinful life. His conversion experience was triggered by something that happened in his family. His only brother Hugo was killed. He wanted to take revenge, but when his brother's killer pleaded for mercy, he was moved, and saw his own sinfulness. He spent some time in church in tears asking the Lord forgiveness for his sinful life. This conversion led him to join the Benedictines. As a Benedictine, he made progress in the practice of virtues. But when he felt called to a greater solitude, he left the Benedictines, and settled at Valle Ombrosa in Tuscany, Italy. It was here that St. John Gualbert laid the foundation for the Order of Vallombrosa (died ca. 1073 A.D.).

St. Canute is the patron saint of Denmark. He became the Duke of southern Jutland, fought against Viking raids, and aided the missionary activities of St. Vicelin. In 1129 A.D., Emperor Lothair III recognized Canute as king of the Western Wends - a political move opposed by his uncle, King Nils of Denmark. This volatile situation led to his death near Ringsted, when two of his cousins killed him (died ca. 1131 A.D.).

Sts. Rufina and Secunda were siblings - daughters of a Roman senator. Both were engaged to be married, but their fiancés renounced their Christian faith during the persecution of Christians by the Emperor Valerian. So both Rufina and Secunda fled from Rome to escape the persecutions. However, Valerian's soldiers scoured the Empire until both of them were included among those captured. They were tortured and then beheaded (died ca. 257 A.D.).

St. Amalburga married Count Witger and had three children. After their children all came of age, Witger decided to become a Benedictine monk at Lobbes. On her part, Amalburga entered the Benedictines at Mauberg, Flanders, where she spent the rest of her years (died ca. 690 A.D.).

Sts. Antony and Theodosius Pechersky were the fathers of Russian monasticism. Antony lived as a hermit at first, until others sought him. Antony organized the Caves of Kiev (in the region of the Ukraine). This is the first Russian monastery established by Russian monks. Theodosius soon joined Antony here at the Caves of Kiev. St. Theodosius reformed St. Antony's concept of monasticism, by stressing the participation of the monks in secular affairs (died ca. 1073-1074 A.D.).

14th Sunday of the Year (A)

(Edited) Sunday reflections: (From) Years 2014 (A), 2015 (B), and 2016 (C)

July 6, 2014
Liturgical readings
Zechariah 9:9-10
Psalm 145
Romans 8:9, 11-13
Matthew 11:25-30

"Learn from Christ and find rest."

If one observes children, it is easy to recognize their openness to learn. That was one reason Jesus was close to children; they are trusting, and more attentive to Him. Most adults tend to have a set of principles already established in their way of life and work. And it is this that can make many resistant and closed to new ideas. Such were the Pharisees and the scribes of Jesus' time. When Jesus spoke about the Kingdom of God to them, they hearts were closed. But the other people around Jesus who were humble and had a childlike trust, listened to what Christ had to say. These were often simple folks: the fishermen, the shepherds, those at the marketplace and all who walk in the public squares.

From that biblical time and along the historical continuum of the Catholic faith, there are Saints in the Church who place great value on humility as a path to Christian maturity. To name a few who were really influential on this spirituality: we have St. Therese of the Child Jesus, St. Bruno of Cologne, St. Francis of Assisi, St. Francis of Paola, St. Ephrem of Syria, and St. Gabriel of Our Lady of Sorrows. These Saints have listened well to the words of Christ and learned how to be open, attentive and trust in His will. This entailed humility, seeing their rightful place in comparison to a God who created everything they saw in the world. It was humility that made them see who they are in both their strengths and weaknesses: the former for works of mercy, and the latter for prayer.

Simplicity and humility are easy to practice once a Christian is accustomed to the discipline of seeking God's will and acting on it. For simplicity and humility will grant the grace to avoid pride and other habits of sin. One has to take care not to let pride insidiously take root in the soul. For this will obscure a path to virtue and deafen one's ears to the voice of Christ. And it could make the Christian less diligent to listen to the Word of God in the Eucharist. The discipline of seeking God's will is in the desire to reform one's life, celebrate God's mercy in the Eucharist, and act on His will in the very circumstances every faithful soul lives and works in. This discipline makes one's life well-ordered and in its rightful place with others. Once the discipline is learned, it ceases to become a sorrow and a burden. For it is in the discipline of Christ's yoke that we attain life and find rest.

Scripture quotes for reflection:
"Our souls will find rest in Christ, for His yoke is easy and His burden light." (Matthew 11)

Memorial of Saints (July 3)

St. Thomas the Apostle merited the title of "doubting Thomas" because at first he did not believe in the Lord's resurrection. Once it was proven to him by Christ Himself, tradition reports that he went to India to preach the gospel after the Pentecost event. Stories tell of his many sojourns in India to evangelize the people. There is a story that tells how Thomas was involved in a conflict with a king of India named Mazdaz. The conflict was due to Thomas converting the king's wife to the Christian faith. This situation naturally incurred the wrath of the king. St. Thomas' mission to bring the Christian faith to India led to his martyrdom on top of a hill (died 1st century A.D.).

St. Leo II was elected Pope on January 10, 681 A.D. Because of the unstable political conditions of that time, he was consecrated at a later time - on August 17, 682 A.D. Leo II was a good preacher and knowledgeable in music. He was also known to be very charitable towards the poor. Together with other Church leaders of his time, St. Leo II upheld the decisions of the 6th General Council of Constantinople (680-681 A.D.). This Church council condemned monothelitism and censured those who did not condemn this heresy.

St. Anatolius was a scholar and head of the Aristotelian school in Alexandria. During conflict in Alexandria in 262 A.D., Anatolius helped noncombatants find safety and refuge from the civil disturbance. Anatolius then went to Palestine and became an assistant to the bishop of Caesarea. In 269 A.D., he became bishop of Laodicaea, Syria (died ca. 283 A.D.).

St. Anatolius of Constantinople opposed the heresy of Nestorianism at the Council of Ephesus. Then he became patriarch of Constantinople, succeeding St. Flavian. St. Anatolius was active in the Council of Chalcedon, which unequivocally accepted papal authority. St. Anatolius got involved in controversy on matters related to Church (the see of Constantinople being higher than the sees of Alexandria and Antioch), and matters related to his being made patriarch of Constantinople (died ca. 458 A.D.).

Sts. Julius and Aaron suffered martyrdom at Caerlon, Monmouthshire, England. These two Englishmen were sentenced to be executed during Emperor Diocletian's persecution of Christians. There are no existing stories of how they were martyred. It can be simply concluded that they were martyred in the same way other Christian martyrs were executed during Emperor Diocletian's reign of the Roman Empire (died ca. 304 A.D.).

St. Heliodorus was a soldier. He met St. Jerome in ca. 372 A.D. and became Jerome's disciple. Heliodorus followed St. Jerome to the East but did not go further when Jerome went to the desert of Palestine. St. Jerome was upset by St. Heliodorus' decision. But the Lord had a plan for both Heliodorus and Jerome. When Heliodorus returned to his birthplace in Italy, he became bishop of Altino. As bishop, St. Heliodorus helped finance St. Jerome's translation of the Bible (died ca. 390 A.D.).

St. Irenaeus and Mustiola were Christians of Italy in the 3rd century A.D. Irenaeus, a deacon, was arrested by Turcius, the local magistrate, for the crime of burying the martyred body of Felix of Sutri. In prison, St. Mustiola attended to St. Irenaeus as well as other Christians who were in prison for their faith. Out of jealousy, Turcius tortured Irenaeus to death in Mustiola's presence. And when Mustiola resisted Turcius' advances on her person, Turcius had Mustiola beaten to death with clubs (died ca. 273 A.D.).

St. Rumold was an Irish monk who journeyed to Rome. In Rome, he was consecrated a regionary bishop. Together with St. Willibrord, both did missionary work in Brabant and Holland. Their mission received great success. Since Rumold denounced the evil ways of the people in his preaching missions, he was killed in Malines, Flanders, by two of those whom he denounced (died ca. 775 A.D.).

St. Bernardino Realino studied well and became a lawyer. When he was 34 years of age, he joined the Jesuits. He did a lot of pastoral work and also became a rector. His reputation for holiness received attention as he grew older. St. Bernardino had a wound in his leg, the blood from which was collected in vials. Over the next 250 years, many witnessed the blood in these vials to remain in a liquid state. It also bubbled and was seen in a boiling state (died ca. 1616 A.D.).

13th Sunday of the Year (A)

"He who will not take up his cross and come after me is not worthy of me."

Lectionary readings for the 13th Sunday Ordinary Time, Year A:
2 Kgs 4:8-11, 14-16
Ps 89:2-3, 16-17, 18-19
Rom 6:3-4, 8-11
Mt 10:37-42

What Jesus asks His followers to do is not simple work. It demands all - one's mind, heart, soul and strength for others - in truth, one's very life. What He asks of every Christian is to make Him the center of his life - number 1 in every priority list. He asks this not once, not twice, but throughout the entire life of every Christian. Every moment He calls Christians to take up the cross of their responsibilities, He asks it to be done in the same intention as He did: to give one's life for God and the building of the Kingdom. This means practicing love, sacrifice, and generosity in the very ordinary circumstances that life opens for each Christian.

Taking up the cross in the same spirit as the Lord can mean several things. It could mean responsibilities and obligations that are not to one's liking, but still has to be corrected or worked on: a rebellious son; a daughter who is in a relationship the parents knows is not good; a spouse who has a vice; a wife who is not responsible with the children; a job that does not bring the profit one needs; a mission to an unfamiliar culture that brings isolation, sorrow and loneliness; a ministry that makes one feel powerless to soothe the pain of the people; a life that is filled with poverty, suffering and pain. The cross is all this and more. But if one were to look up to Christ, He will help carry the crosses of one's life, because the faith, love and hope in God needed is always there.

The help necessary to carry the crosses of life in the same spirit as the Lord is found in prayer and the sacraments, and within a family or community that cares, is responsible and works towards the greater good. If these means are exercised, then God will surely grant the grace and strength to carry one's responsibilities well. And He will grant the strength needed to persevere in one's vocation or state of life till the end. Also, there is one truth that should be remembered: with every "cross" experience, there is always a "resurrection" experience in the journey of life. And it is the knowledge of the Lord's resurrection that gives Christians hope to continue in their following of Jesus until the end.

Feasts of Saints Celebrated in the Month of July

on July 1: Shenute, abbot; Theodoric or Thierry, abbot; Carilefus or Calais, abbot; Gall of Clermont, bishop; Eparchius or Cybard; Simeon Salus; Serf or Servanus, bishop; Oliver Plunkett, bishop and martyr

on July 2: Processus and Martinian, martyrs; Monegundis, widow; Otto of Bamberg, bishop

Thomas: (died 1st c.); his doubting gave way to faith when he saw the risen Lord; associated with founding the Church in south India; mentioned in the Roman Canon; patron of builders, India and Pakistan. (July 3)

also on July 3: Leo II, pope and confessor; Anatolius, bishop; Irenaeus and Mustiola, martyrs; Julius and Aaron, martyrs; Heliodorus, bishop; Anatolius of Constantinople, bishop; Rumold or Rombaut, martyr; Bernardino Realino.

Elizabeth of Portugal: (died 1336; named after her
great-aunt, St. Elizabeth of Hungary (died 1231 A.D.); queen and mother; lover of the poor; peacemaker in the royal family; later a Franciscan tertiary; patroness of Catholic Action. (July 4)

also on July 4: Bertha, widow; Andrew of Crete, bishop; Odo of Canterbury, bishop; Ulric of Augsburg, bishop

Anthony Zaccaria (died 1539 A.D.): at Cremona at age 36; doctor turned priest; popular preacher who founded in Milan the Clerics Regular of St. Paul (Barnabites) for the reform of society (1530 A.D.); today they number some 400 members; sought collaboration between the clergy and the laity; promoted frequent communion. (July 5)

also on July 5: Athanasius the Athonite, abbot

Maria Goretti: (died 1902 A.D.) at age 12; born near Ancona; she was stabbed to death, preferring to die than be raped alive; with her mother present, she was canonized in 1950 A.D. before the largest crowd ever assembled in Rome for a canonization; patroness of teenage girls. (July 6)

also on July 6: Romulus of Fiesole, bishop and martyr; Dominica, virgin and martyr; Sisoes; Goat; Sexburga, widow; Modwenna, virgin; Godelva, martyr

on July 7: Pantaenus; Palladius, bishop; Félix of Nantes, bishop; Ethelburga, Ercongota and Sethrida, virgins; Hedda, bishop

on July 8: Aquila and Prisca; Procopius, martyr; Kilian and Companions, martyrs; Withburga, virgin; Adrian III, pope; Grimbald; Sunniva and Companions; Raymund of Toulouse

Augustine Zhao Kong: was a Chinese diocesan priest who was martyred with his 119 companions in 1815 A.D. Among their number was an eighteen year old boy, Chi Zhuzi, who cried out to those who had just cut off his right arm and were preparing to flay him alive: "Every piece of my flesh, every drop of my blood will tell you that I am a Christian." (July 9)

also on July 9: Everild, virgin; The Martyrs of Gorkum: Nicholas Pieck, Jerome Weerden, Leonard Vechel, Nicholas Janssen, Godfrey van Duynen, John van Oosterwyk, John van Hoornaer, Adrian van Hilvarenbeek, James Lacops, Andrew Wouters, Antony van Willehad, and Nicasius van Heeze; Veronica Giuliani, virgin

on July 10: Rufina and Secunda, virgin and martyrs; Amalburga, widow; Amalburga, virgin; Antony and Theodosius of Pechersk, abbot

Benedict: (died 547 A.D.); wrote famous monastic Rule noted for its wisdom and moderation; founded 12 monasteries including Monte Cassino; Benedictines today number some 8,500 religious; considered the "Patriarch of Western Monasticism"; patron of Europe. (July 11)

also on July 11: Drostan, abbot; John of Bergamo, bishop; Hidulf, bishop; Olga, widow

on July 12: John Gualbert, abbot; Nabor and Felix, martyrs; Veronica; Jason, martyr; Hermagoras and Fortunatus, martyrs; John the Iberian, abbot; John Jones, priest and martyr

Henry II: (died 1024 A.D.); together with his wife, St. Cunegunda, he assisted the poor; as emperor, he respected the Church’s freedom, fostering ecclesiastical and monastic reform; founded the see of Bamberg as a center for missions to the Slavs; patron of Finland and Benedictine oblates. (July 13)

also on July 13: Silas or Silvanus; Maura and Brigid; Eugenius of Carthage, bishop; Mildred, virgin; James of Voragine, bishop; Francis Solano

Camillus de Lellis (died 1614 A.D.) at Rome; born at Chieti in Abruzzi in 1550 A.D.; soldier addicted to gambling; his conversion led him to found (in 1582 A.D.) a society (Camillians), today numbering 1,000 religious, which established hospitals and cared for the sick with affection and diligence; patron of nurses, of the sick, and hospitals. (July 14)

also on July 14: Deusdedit, bishop; Marchelm; Ulric of Zell, abbot

Bonaventure (died 1274 A.D.): O.F.M. minister general for 17 years; Cardinal bishop of Albano; authored biblical commentaries and many ascetical and spiritual treatises, esp Journey of the Soul into God; known as the "seraphic Doctor." (July 15)

also on July 15: James of Nisibis, bishop; Barhadbesaba, martyr; Donald; Swithun, bishop; Athanasius of Naples, bishop; Edith of Polesworth; Valdimir of Kiev; David of Munktorp, bishop; Pompilio Pirrotti

on July 16: Athenogenes, bishop and martyr; Eustathius of Antioch, bishop; Helier, martyr; Reineldis, virgin and martyr; Fulrad, abbot

on July 17: Speratus and Companions, the Scillitan Martyrs; Marcellina, virgin; Ennodius, bishop; Kenelm; Leo IV, pope; Clement of Okhrida and Companions, the Seven Apostles of Bulgaria; Nerses Lampronazi, bishop; Mary Magdelen Postel

on July 18: Pambo; Philastrius, bishop; Arnulf or Arnoul of Metz, bishop; Frederick of Utrecht, bishop and martyr; Bruno of Segni, bishop

on July 19: Justa and Rufina, virgin and martyrs; Arsenius; Symmachus, pope; Ambrose Autpert; Macrina the Younger, virgin; William John Plessington, priest and martyr

Apollinarius: Early accounts report that Saint Apollinarius was ordained Bishop by Peter himself and sent as a missionary bishop to Ravenna during the reign of the emperor Claudius. Renowned for his powers to heal in the name of Christ, he was frequently exiled, tortured and imprisoned for the faith, and finally martyred. (July 20)

also on July 20: Wilgefortis or Liberta; Joseph Barsabas; Aurelius, bishop; Flavian and Elias, bishops; Vulmar or Wulmar, abbot; Ansegisus, abbot

Lawrence of Brindisi (died 1619 A.D.); Capuchin, linguist, military chaplain, diplomat and minister general; learned exegete, forceful preacher and controversialist; 15 volumes of his writings are extant. (July 21)

also on July 21: Praxedes, virgin; Victor or Marseilles, martyr; Arbogast, bishop

Mary Magdalene: (died 1st c.); healed of possession; disciple of Jesus and present at his crucifixion; in Mark, the first to witness to the risen Lord (hence, called the "apostle of the apostles" - Robanus Maurus, +856 A.D.); mistakenly identified as the sinful woman of Luke 7:36-50; patroness of the Order of Preachers. (July 22)

also on July 22: Joseph of Palestine; Wandregisilus or Wandrille, abbot; Philip Evans and John Lloyd, priests and martyrs

Bridget (died 1373 A.D.): in Rome; born in Sweden; mother of eight; mystic, prophet and foundress of the Order of the Most Holy Savior ("Bridgetines"); sought an end to the luxury and dissipation of the Avignon papacy and return of the pope to Rome; her Revelations record her spiritual experiences and life; patroness of Sweden. (July 23)

also on July 23: Apollinaris of Ravenna, bishop and martyr; Liborius, bishop; The Three Wise Men; John Cassian, abbot; Romula and her Companions, virgins; Anne or Susanna, virgin

Sharbel Makhlouf: was a Lebanese monk, born in a small mountain village and ordained in 1858 A.D. Devoted to the Blessed Virgin Mary, he spent the last twenty three years of his life as a hermit. Despite temptations to wealth and comfort, Saint Sharbel taught the value of poverty, self-sacrifice and prayer by the way he lived his life. (July 24)

on July 24: Christina, virgin and martyr; Lewina, virgin and martyr; Declan, bishop; Boris and Gleb, martyrs; Christina the Astonishing, virgin; Christina of Tyre, virgin and martyr; John Boste, priest and martyr

James, brother of John, is called "the Greater" because he followed Christ before the other apostle of the same name; first of the twelve to be martyred, being decapitated by order of Herod Agrippa I, c. 44 A.D.; venerated at Campostella, Spain; named in the Roman Canon; patron of Spain, Guatemala, and Nicaragua. (July 25)

also on July 25: Christopher, martyr; Thea, Valentina and Paul, martyrs; Magnericus, bishop

Joachim and Anne: Names of the parents of Mary found in the 2nd c. Protoevangelium of James, veneration of Anne originated in 6th c. East; patroness of childless women and miners; devotion to Joachim dates from the 8th c. (July 26)

also on July 26: Simeon the Armenian; Bartholomea Capitanio, virgin

on July 27: Pantaleon, martyr; The Seven Sleepers of Ephesus; Aurelius, Natalia, Felix and Companions, martyrs; Theobald of Marly, abbot

on July 28: Nazarius and Celsus, martyrs; Samson, bishop; Botvid

Martha (died 1st c. A.D.): sister of Mary and Lazarus; model of hospitality and faithful disciple; confessed her faith in Jesus as the Son of God; patroness of housewives, waiters and waitresses. (July 29)

also on July 29: Felix II, pope; Simplicius, Faustinus and Beatrice, martyrs; Lupus or Loup, bishop; Olaf, martyr; William Pinchon, bishop

Peter: (died c. 450 A.D.); called "Chrysologus" (golden-tongue) for his exceptional preaching ability; bishop of Ravenna; 170 homilies are extant. (July 30)

also on July 30: Abdon and Sennen, martyrs; Julitta, widow and martyr

Ignatius (died 1556 A.D.): soldier, founded the Compania de Jesus (Latin: Societas Iesu), today numbers some 22,250 members; approved by Paul III, 1540 A.D.; authored the Spiritual Exercises; founded the Roman College; at his death, the Society numbered 1,000 members in 76 houses in 12 provinces, including Brazil and India; patron saint of retreatants and soldiers. (July 31)

also on July 31: Neot; Helen of Skövde, widow; Germanus of Auxerre, bishop; Justin de Jacobis, bishop