St. Stephen: First Deacon & Martyr

St. Stephen: The First Deacon and Martyr

St. Stephen holds a significant place in Christian history as the first deacon and the first martyr of the Church. His life and martyrdom are recorded in the Acts of the Apostles, and his story continues to inspire believers around the world. This blog post delves into the life, ministry, and legacy of St. Stephen, highlighting his role in the early Church and his enduring impact on Christian faith.

Early Life and Ministry

St. Stephen was one of the seven deacons chosen by the apostles to assist in the distribution of food and aid to the early Christian community in Jerusalem. The selection of deacons is described in Acts 6:1-6:

> "Now in these days when the disciples were increasing in number, a complaint by the Hellenists arose against the Hebrews because their widows were being neglected in the daily distribution. And the twelve summoned the full number of the disciples and said, 'It is not right that we should give up preaching the word of God to serve tables. Therefore, brothers, pick out from among you seven men of good repute, full of the Spirit and of wisdom, whom we will appoint to this duty. But we will devote ourselves to prayer and to the ministry of the word.' And what they said pleased the whole gathering, and they chose Stephen, a man full of faith and of the Holy Spirit, and Philip, and Prochorus, and Nicanor, and Timon, and Parmenas, and Nicolaus, a proselyte of Antioch. These they set before the apostles, and they prayed and laid their hands on them."

Stephen's selection as a deacon highlights his reputation as a man of faith and wisdom, filled with the Holy Spirit. His role as a deacon involved serving the needs of the community, particularly the widows and the poor, ensuring that they received fair and adequate support.

Preaching and Miracles

In addition to his service as a deacon, Stephen was also known for his powerful preaching and the miracles he performed. Acts 6:8 describes him as "full of grace and power," performing "great wonders and signs among the people." His eloquence and ability to articulate the Christian faith made him a prominent figure in the early Church.

Stephen's preaching, however, drew the attention and opposition of certain members of the Jewish community. They accused him of blasphemy against Moses and God, leading to his arrest and trial before the Sanhedrin, the Jewish council.

Trial and Martyrdom

Stephen's trial is recorded in Acts 6:9-15 and Acts 7. During his trial, Stephen delivered a powerful speech, recounting the history of Israel and emphasizing God's faithfulness and the people's repeated rejection of God's messengers. He concluded his speech with a bold proclamation, accusing the Sanhedrin of betraying and murdering the Righteous One, Jesus Christ:

> "You stiff-necked people, uncircumcised in heart and ears, you always resist the Holy Spirit. As your fathers did, so do you. Which of the prophets did your fathers not persecute? And they killed those who announced beforehand the coming of the Righteous One, whom you have now betrayed and murdered, you who received the law as delivered by angels and did not keep it." (Acts 7:51-53)

Stephen's words enraged the members of the Sanhedrin, and they dragged him out of the city to stone him. As he was being stoned, Stephen prayed for his persecutors and entrusted his spirit to Jesus:

> "And as they were stoning Stephen, he called out, 'Lord Jesus, receive my spirit.' And falling to his knees, he cried out with a loud voice, 'Lord, do not hold this sin against them.' And when he had said this, he fell asleep." (Acts 7:59-60)

Stephen's martyrdom marked the first recorded instance of a Christian being killed for their faith. His willingness to forgive his persecutors and his unwavering faith in Jesus serve as a powerful testimony to the strength and depth of his belief.

Legacy and Significance

St. Stephen's legacy as the first martyr of the Church has had a profound impact on Christian history and spirituality. His example of faith, courage, and forgiveness continues to inspire believers to stand firm in their convictions and to extend grace and mercy to others.

The Feast of St. Stephen is celebrated on December 26, the day after Christmas, in many Christian traditions. This timing highlights the connection between the birth of Christ and the witness of the first martyr, emphasizing the cost of discipleship and the call to follow Jesus even unto death.

Stephen's role as a deacon also underscores the importance of service within the Christian community. His dedication to caring for the needs of others reflects the call to love and serve one another, a central tenet of the Christian faith.

Conclusion

St. Stephen's life and martyrdom offer a powerful example of faith, service, and forgiveness. As the first deacon and martyr, he holds a special place in the history of the Church, reminding us of the call to serve others and to stand firm in our faith. His story challenges us to live out our beliefs with courage and compassion, trusting in God's grace and mercy.

As we remember St. Stephen, let us be inspired by his example and strive to embody the virtues of faith, service, and forgiveness in our own lives. May his witness strengthen our resolve to follow Christ and to share His love with the world.

---

Sources

: [Catholic Online](https://www.catholic.org/saints/saint.php?saint_id=137)

: [Britannica](https://www.britannica.com/biography/Saint-Stephen)

: [Catholic News Agency](https://www.catholicnewsagency.com/saint/st-stephen-110)

St. Lucy: The Bringer of Light and Patroness of the Blind

Title: St. Lucy: The Bringer of Light and Patroness of the Blind

St. Lucy, also known as Santa Lucia, is one of the most revered saints in the Catholic Church. Celebrated for her unwavering faith and martyrdom, St. Lucy's story has inspired countless believers throughout the centuries. Her feast day, December 13, is marked by various traditions and festivities, particularly in Scandinavian countries. This blog post delves into the life, legacy, and significance of St. Lucy.

Early Life and Background

St. Lucy was born around 283 AD in Syracuse, Sicily, during the reign of the Roman Emperor Diocletian. Her name, Lucia, is derived from the Latin word "lux," meaning "light." This name is fitting, as Lucy is often associated with light and vision. She was born into a wealthy and noble family, and her father died when she was young, leaving her and her mother, Eutychia, to manage their estate.

A Vow of Virginity

From a young age, Lucy was deeply devoted to her Christian faith. She made a vow of virginity, dedicating her life to God and rejecting the idea of marriage. However, her mother, unaware of Lucy's vow, arranged for her to marry a wealthy pagan suitor. Lucy prayed fervently for a way to avoid this marriage, and her prayers were answered when her mother was miraculously cured of a long-standing illness. Grateful for the miracle, Eutychia agreed to honor Lucy's vow and allowed her to distribute her dowry to the poor.

Martyrdom and Legacy

Lucy's refusal to marry and her charitable acts angered her suitor, who reported her to the Roman authorities. At the time, Christians were persecuted for their faith, and Lucy was arrested and ordered to renounce her beliefs. She steadfastly refused, declaring her faith in Christ. According to tradition, various attempts to execute her failed, including trying to burn her at the stake. Ultimately, she was martyred by a sword thrust to her throat around 304 AD.

St. Lucy's martyrdom and unwavering faith made her a symbol of courage and devotion. She was canonized as a saint, and her story spread throughout the Christian world. She is often depicted holding a palm branch, symbolizing martyrdom, and a lamp or a pair of eyes on a plate, representing her association with light and vision.

Patroness of the Blind and Those with Eye Ailments

St. Lucy is the patron saint of the blind and those with eye ailments. This association stems from various legends about her life. One such legend claims that Lucy's eyes were gouged out as part of her torture, but they were miraculously restored by God. As a result, she is often invoked by those seeking healing for eye-related issues.

Feast Day and Traditions

St. Lucy's feast day, December 13, is celebrated with various customs and traditions, particularly in Scandinavian countries like Sweden, Norway, and Denmark. In Sweden, the celebration of St. Lucy's Day, or "Luciadagen," is a major cultural event. It involves a procession led by a young girl dressed as St. Lucy, wearing a white gown and a crown of candles. She is accompanied by "star boys" and other attendants, who sing traditional songs and distribute saffron buns called "lussekatter."

In Italy, particularly in Sicily, St. Lucy's Day is marked by processions, special church services, and the preparation of traditional foods like "cuccìa," a dish made from wheat berries and ricotta cheese.

Conclusion

St. Lucy's life and legacy continue to inspire believers around the world. Her unwavering faith, charitable acts, and martyrdom serve as a powerful testament to the strength of the human spirit and the enduring power of faith. As the patroness of the blind and those with eye ailments, St. Lucy is a beacon of hope and healing. Her feast day celebrations, filled with light and joy, remind us of the importance of faith, charity, and resilience in the face of adversity.

---

Sources:

: [Catholic Online](https://www.catholic.org/saints/saint.php?saint_id=75)

: [Britannica](https://www.britannica.com/biography/Saint-Lucy)

: [Catholic News Agency](https://www.catholicnewsagency.com/saint/st-lucy-106)

St. Josaphat: The Martyr of Ecumenism

St. Josaphat: The Martyr of Ecumenism

St. Josaphat, born John Kunsevych in 1580 in Volodymyr, Ukraine, is a revered figure in the Catholic Church, known for his unwavering commitment to the unity of the Church and his dedication to the Eastern Catholic faithful. His life was marked by his bold and often dangerous mission to bridge divisions between the Eastern Orthodox and Roman Catholic Churches, making him one of the most impactful saints of his time.

Early Life and Vocation

John Kunsevych was born into a devout family that belonged to the Eastern Rite Church of Kyiv, which was then separated from Rome. From a young age, he displayed a strong spiritual inclination and was known for his deep sense of prayer and self-discipline. His spiritual path began with an apprenticeship to a merchant in Vilna, Lithuania, where he demonstrated exceptional business acumen. Despite being offered a lucrative partnership and a promising marriage proposal from his master’s family, he turned these down, feeling called to a religious life.

In 1604, John entered the Monastery of the Holy Trinity in Vilna, taking the name "Josaphat" and committing himself to a life of asceticism, prayer, and service. His dedication to his faith and his community was evident from the start, and he quickly became known for his profound preaching and his efforts to educate both clergy and laity on the importance of unity with the Church in Rome.

The Path to Priesthood and Ecumenism

Josaphat was ordained a priest shortly after joining the monastery. He dedicated his efforts to reuniting the Eastern and Western Christian traditions under the Union of Brest, a treaty that sought to bring Eastern Orthodox believers into communion with the Pope while preserving their Byzantine liturgy and customs. His ministry included profound preaching and an intensive campaign to educate clergy and laity alike on the importance of unity with the Church in Rome.

One of Josaphat’s significant achievements was publishing a new catechism designed to clarify Catholic doctrines, particularly focusing on the primacy of the Pope. He was also noted for advocating for strict adherence to ecclesiastical discipline among clergy, particularly in relation to marriage and celibacy. In the Eastern Catholic tradition, married men could become priests but were not allowed to remarry if widowed. Josaphat enforced this discipline, which at times brought him into conflict with local customs and drew resentment.

Bishop of Polotsk and the "Thief of Souls"

In 1617, Josaphat was appointed the Bishop of Polotsk, a region rife with religious division. He became known for his fervent sermons and writings defending unity with Rome and was nicknamed the "Thief of Souls" by those opposed to his mission. His words often inspired a deep reverence and love for Christ and the Church. One of his famous quotes encapsulates his courage and devotion: "I am ready to die for the holy union with Rome and for the supremacy of St. Peter." This line would foreshadow his ultimate martyrdom.

Josaphat’s efforts led to many conversions and a more devoted clergy, yet his success created resentment among some Orthodox believers who felt threatened by his reforms. Despite the opposition, he remained steadfast in his mission, continuing to preach and work towards unity.

Martyrdom and Legacy

Josaphat’s commitment to unity ultimately led to his martyrdom. On November 12, 1623, a mob opposed to his efforts broke into his residence in Vitebsk, Belarus. He was struck with a halberd, then shot, and his body was thrown into the river. His body was later recovered and is now buried in St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome. Josaphat was the first saint of the Eastern Church to be canonized by Rome, a testament to his significant impact on the Church.

His death brought a movement toward Catholicism and unity, but the controversy continued, and the dissidents, too, had their martyr. After the partition of Poland, the Russians forced most Ruthenians to join the Russian Orthodox Church. In 1964, newspaper photos of Pope Paul VI embracing Athenagoras I, the Orthodox patriarch of Constantinople, marked a significant step toward the healing of a division in Christendom that has spanned more than nine centuries.

Reflection

The life of St. Josaphat is a powerful reminder of the importance of unity and the sacrifices that come with it. His unwavering commitment to his faith and his mission to bridge divisions within the Church serve as an inspiration to all who seek to promote understanding and reconciliation. As we reflect on his life and legacy, we are called to embrace the spirit of ecumenism and work towards greater unity within the Christian community.

St. Josaphat’s feast day is celebrated on November 12, and he is remembered as a martyr for Christian unity. His life and work continue to inspire and guide those who strive for peace and reconciliation within the Church.

Source:

: [Franciscan Media](https://www.franciscanmedia.org/saint-of-the-day/saint-josaphat/)

: [Aleteia](https://aleteia.org/daily-prayer/sunday-november-12-2)

 

St. Ignatius of Antioch

St. Ignatius of Antioch, Ordained by Peter, Called Church Catholic

St. Ignatius of Antioch stands as a towering figure in the early Christian Church, known for his fervent faith and his significant contributions to the development of Christian theology and ecclesiology. His life and teachings continue to resonate with Christians worldwide, offering a glimpse into the heart and mind of a man wholly devoted to Christ and His Church.

Born in Syria around the year 35 AD, Ignatius was reportedly a disciple of the Apostle John and was later ordained as the Bishop of Antioch by none other than St. Peter himself. This direct apostolic succession bestowed a considerable amount of spiritual authority and responsibility upon Ignatius, who shepherded the Christian community in Antioch with great zeal and dedication.

During his episcopacy, Ignatius witnessed the burgeoning growth of the Church amidst the trials and tribulations of the Roman Empire. It was in Antioch that the followers of Jesus were first called "Christians," a testament to the distinct identity and unity of the believers in this early center of Christianity.

Ignatius is perhaps best known for the series of letters he penned while en route to Rome, where he would ultimately face martyrdom. These letters, addressed to various Christian communities, are treasured for their theological depth and their clear articulation of key Christian doctrines. They emphasize the importance of ecclesiastical unity, the role of the bishops, and the centrality of the Eucharist as the "medicine of immortality" — a phrase that beautifully captures Ignatius's profound reverence for the sacrament.

Acts 9:31 in Koine Greek Translated with Google

One of the most notable aspects of Ignatius's letters is his use of the term "Catholic Church" (see: St. Ignatius of Antioch to the Smyrnaeans (Hoole translation) (earlychristianwritings.com). This designation highlighted the universal scope of the one true Church founded by Christ upon Peter the Rock, transcending local congregations and geographical boundaries to encompass all believers united in the faith of Christ. 

This early use of the term "Catholic" underscores the inclusive and comprehensive nature of the Church as envisioned by Ignatius.  His usage of the term "Catholic Church" shows us that this was always the name of the Church Christ founded. We see the same term used in Acts 9:31 where the original Greek clearly says "Catholic Church when describing the Church in Judea. 

Ignatius's journey to martyrdom was marked by courage and an unwavering commitment to his faith. Condemned to be devoured by wild beasts in the Colosseum, he embraced his fate with a desire to be united with Christ through his suffering and death. His poignant words, "I am God’s wheat and shall be ground by their teeth so that I may become Christ’s pure bread," reflect a soul ready to join the ranks of the martyrs and saints.

The legacy of St. Ignatius of Antioch is enduring. His writings provide a vital link to the apostolic era and offer rich insights into the early Church's beliefs and practices. For modern-day Christians, Ignatius serves as a model of faithfulness and a reminder of the timeless truths that form the bedrock of Christian doctrine.

The Writings of St. Ignatius of Antioch: A Legacy of Early Christian Theology

St. Ignatius of Antioch, a pivotal figure in the early Christian Church, is renowned not only for his martyrdom but also for his extensive writings, which have been crucial in shaping early Christian theology and ecclesiology. His epistles, written on his way to Rome where he would meet his martyrdom, are among the earliest-known Christian documents after the New Testament and offer profound insights into the beliefs and practices of early Christians.

Ignatius's letters are addressed to various Christian communities and individuals, including the Ephesians, Magnesians, Trallians, Romans, Philadelphians, Smyrnaeans, and Polycarp, the Bishop of Smyrna. These letters serve as a testament to his pastoral care, theological insights, and unwavering commitment to upholding the unity and purity of the Church.

The Epistle to the Ephesians discusses the concept of unity in the Church, emphasizing the importance of the Eucharist and the role of the bishop as a focal point of unity. In his Epistle to the Magnesians, Ignatius warns against Judaizing tendencies and advocates for living according to the New Covenant rather than the Old.

The Epistle to the Trallians reinforces the authority of the bishop and the importance of adhering to the teachings of the apostles, while the Epistle to the Romans is a poignant reflection of Ignatius's readiness for martyrdom, expressing his desire not to be saved from death but to attain union with Christ.

In his letters to the Philadelphians and Smyrnaeans, Ignatius addresses the dangers of heresy, particularly Docetism, which denied the humanity of Christ. He underscores the reality of Christ's incarnation, suffering, and resurrection, affirming the belief in Christ's true flesh and blood.

The Epistle to Polycarp is a personal letter to his fellow bishop, offering guidance and encouragement for his pastoral duties. Ignatius exhorts Polycarp to be steadfast, patient, and to set an example for his flock.

These writings collectively contain the first surviving written description of the Church as "Catholic," from the Greek word indicating both universality and fullness. Ignatius passionately stressed the importance of Church unity, the dangers of heresy, and the surpassing importance of the Eucharist as the "medicine of immortality" — a phrase that encapsulates his deep reverence for the sacrament.

St. Ignatius's letters are a rich source of early Christian doctrine and practice, reflecting a period when the Church was still defining its identity and beliefs. They offer a window into the soul of a man who was deeply in love with Christ and His Church, and who was willing to lay down his life for the faith he so ardently professed. His writings continue to inspire and guide Christians, echoing through the centuries as a voice of apostolic wisdom and fervor.

As we reflect on the life and teachings of St. Ignatius of Antioch, we are reminded of the profound impact that one individual can have on the course of history. His voice, though from a distant past, continues to echo through the ages, calling the faithful to unity, to reverence for the sacred mysteries, and to a life lived in full communion with Christ and His Church.

St. Bartholomew

St. Bartholomew, also known as Nathanael, is celebrated as one of the twelve apostles of Jesus Christ. His story, though not extensively detailed in the Bible, has been pieced together through various historical texts and traditional accounts, painting a picture of a man whose life and works have inspired Christians for centuries.

According to the Synoptic Gospels, Bartholomew was one of the original twelve apostles who were chosen by Jesus to spread his teachings. The name 'Bartholomew' itself is of Aramaic origin, meaning 'son of Talmai,' which suggests a lineage of significance during that time. Despite the lack of personal details about his life in the scriptures, Bartholomew's inclusion among the apostles signifies his importance in the early Christian church.

The legacy of St. Bartholomew is marked by his missionary work, which, according to various traditions, extended as far as India. Eusebius of Caesarea, a notable early church historian, mentioned that Bartholomew left a copy of the Gospel of Matthew in India, indicating his role in spreading Christianity beyond the Roman Empire. Other accounts suggest that he also preached in Armenia, where he met a martyr's death, thus becoming a symbol of sacrifice and devotion for the Christian faith.

The martyrdom of St. Bartholomew is a subject that has captivated the Christian community for centuries, symbolizing the ultimate sacrifice in the name of faith. While the Bible does not provide details of his death, various early Christian writings and traditions offer insights into the end of his earthly journey.

According to these traditions, St. Bartholomew's missionary work led him to Armenia, where he converted the king to Christianity. This angered the local pagan priests, who saw their influence waning as the new faith took hold. They incited the brother of the king, Astyages, against Bartholomew, leading to the apostle's arrest.

The most widely accepted account of his martyrdom states that St. Bartholomew was flayed alive. This gruesome method of execution involved the removal of skin from the body, a punishment reserved for those who were seen as a significant threat to the established order or beliefs. After being flayed, it is said that he was crucified upside down, enduring further agony before succumbing to death.

This narrative of St. Bartholomew's martyrdom has been depicted in numerous works of art throughout history, often showing him holding his own skin or the instruments of his torture. These representations serve as a stark reminder of the physical trials he endured for his unwavering commitment to his faith.

The legacy of St. Bartholomew's martyrdom extends beyond the mere act of his death. It is a testament to the strength of conviction and the depth of devotion he had for his beliefs. His willingness to face such a brutal end rather than renounce his faith has inspired countless believers to hold firm in their convictions, even in the face of persecution.

St. Bartholomew's martyrdom is not just a story of suffering; it is also one of triumph. It underscores the belief that the spirit can overcome the flesh and that faith can transcend even the most horrific of circumstances. His story continues to be a source of strength and inspiration for those who face trials for their beliefs, reminding them of the power of faith and the eternal impact of a life devoted to a higher calling.

St. Bartholomew's feast day is celebrated on August 24th in Western Christianity, a day that commemorates his martyrdom and celebrates his contributions to the spread of Christianity. He is often depicted with a knife, representing his martyrdom by flaying, and his flayed skin, a testament to his unwavering faith even in the face of brutal persecution.

As a patron saint, St. Bartholomew is associated with a diverse range of professions and ailments, from leatherworkers to neurological diseases. This wide patronage reflects the universal appeal of his story and the values he embodies: courage, faith, and the spreading of knowledge.

The veneration of St. Bartholomew is evident in the numerous churches and cathedrals dedicated to him around the world, from the ancient Saint Bartholomew Monastery in Turkey to the Basilica of San Bartolomeo in Benevento, Italy. These sites serve as places of pilgrimage, reflection, and celebration of a man who played a pivotal role in the foundation of the Christian church.

In conclusion, St. Bartholomew the Apostle remains an influential figure in Christianity. His life and martyrdom are shrouded in mystery and legend, but his impact on the faith is clear. He stands as a testament to the power of belief and the importance of spreading a message of hope and salvation, principles that continue to resonate within the Christian community today.

St. John the Evangelist

Today is the feast day of St. John the Divine or the Evangelist. We know of him from the Scriptures.  He was the son of Zebedee and Solome (Matthew 4:21,Mark 15:40). St. John is the younger brother of St. James.

They lived and worked as fishermen in by the sea of Galilee. Both brothers were fond of St. John the Baptist and often heard him preach on repentance near the river Jordan.

St. John was called by Christ Jesus to be one of His disciples. He accepted without hesitation and followed Jesus everywhere even to Christ's crucifixion.  There he would be charged to care for the Blessed Virgin Mary. (John 19:27) St. John would preach the Gospel as Christ commanded, even writing texts that became part of the canon of Sacred Scripture (Gospel of John, the three Epistles of John and the Book of Revelation).  He is the only Apostle to live into old age and not be martyred.

St. John is a role model for all Christians.  He stood by Jesus even till the end.  While the other disciples ran for dear life; John remained by Christ's side. He did not fear the authorities coming to arrest Christ, nor the slanders and gossip of the sanhedrin.    

 

St. Stephen - First Martyr and Deacon

Today is St. Stephen's feast day.

St. Stephen is an important figure in the Early Church.  He was the first to shed blood for the faith, or be a martyr. St. Stephen was the first or one of the first deacons ordained.

As the Catholic Church grew in numbers after Pentecost, the Apostles needed help to minister to them, especially the poor and widows. The diaconate was born. Today we have many men who are ordained deacons in order to help the Church in many ways.  

The story of St. Stephen is introduced in the Acts of the Apostles chapters 6 and 7.  In them, the miracles God worked through St. Stephen as well as his preaching and the drama of his enemies is presented.  Even after Christ's death and resurrection, Christ still had many enemies.  Christianity was seen as a plague - a threat to the status quo and human liberty.  Sounds like our times today right?

St. Stephen was slandered and rejected.  When brought before his enemies, they shouted at him and mocked him.  They refused to listen to his preaching about Christ.  In a rage, they dragged him outside of Jerusalem and stoned him to death.  As he was being stoned, St. Stephen prayed for mercy on the part of his attackers begging God not to punish them.

Stephen is a model for all Christians especially in times of persecution.  We must continue to preach Christ in season and out of season and not fear. (2 Timothy 4:2)  When we are attacked, mocked and hated; we must return these actions with love and prayer. (Matthew 5:43-45)


May St. Stephen pray for us all, especially those being persecuted and for deacons.    

Saint Maximilian Maria Kolbe

Saint Maximilian Maria Kolbe was a Franciscan of the Conventual branch of the Order of Friars Minor.  He was taken prisoner by the Nazi regime and made to suffer the horrible conditions at camp of Auschwitz.
Kolbe did not complain, but instead ministered to the others and even said Mass in his cell.  When he was among a crowd of men who the Nazis commanders were surveying in order to choose one to kill, he remained calm.  The Nazi chose a man named Franciszek Gajowniczek to be killed.  The man out of fear shouted, "no, I have a wife and children."

Maximilian Kolbe stepped forward and said he would take Franciszek's place.  The commander accepted and took Kolbe instead of the married man.  Kolbe was taken to an execution chamber. He was given a lethal injection of carbolic acid on August 14, 1941.  Witnesses say he raised his arm without fear and accepted his death without complain.

Kolbe was canonized by Blessed John Paul II on October 10, 1982 and is the patron saint of
drug addicts, prisoners, families, journalists, and the pro-life movement.  He was also named the patron saint of "our difficult century."

In 1917, Kolbe founded the Militia of the Immaculata which promotes total consecration to the Immaculate Heart of Mary.

May St. Maximilian Kolbe pray for us and teach us how to be courageous to die for the faith and for another soul.

O Lord Jesus Christ who said, "greater love than this no man has that a man lay down his life for his friends," through the intercession of St. Maximilian Kolbe, whose life illustrated such love, we beseech You to grant us our petitions .....(mention them here).

Through the Knights of the Immaculata movement, which Maximilian founded, he spread a fervent devotion to Our Lady throughout the world. He gave up his life for a total stranger and loved his persecutors, giving us all an example of unselfish love for all men --- a love which was inspired by true devotion to Mary.

Grant O Lord Jesus, that we too may give ourselves entirely without reserve to the love and service of our Heavenly Queen in order to better love and serve our fellowman in imitation of your humble servant, Maximilian. Amen.

(Say 3 Hail Marys and a Glory be....)

        

St. Lawrence - Deacon and Martyr

Today is the feast day of St. Lawrence the Martyr.  He was a deacon who helped the poor in his day.  When Christians were persecuted by the Romans, he along with Pope Sixtus II who is a saint as well, were martyred.

A Roman official who was fond of money believed that the Catholic Church had treasure and had St. Lawrence hand it over. St. Lawrence complied and gathered the "treasure."  The Official believed he would get gold and monies, but instead Lawrence had gathered the city's poor and sick that the Church took care of.  Naturally, the Roman official was furious and ordered that Lawrence be killed a slow and torturous death.

He was sentenced to be killed by being tied over a grill made of iron with a large fire below him slowly burning him to death.  Lawrence did not feel pain while being roasted alive and even joked with his torturers by mocking them, "Turn me over, I'm done on this side!"

St. Lawrence is a saint and martyr who obviously had a sense of humor.  He was so full of the joy of Christ that not even the threats or persecution nor the torture took it away.  It is awesome how he introduced the poor and sick of Rome as the Church's treasure - they are indeed.  Pope Francis is reminding us of this today.  The Church is not about rich vestments and altar items, but about the poor.  May St. Lawrence the Martyr pray for all of us, especially Christians in persecuted areas and deacons.    



Prayer to St. Lawrence,  Deacon and Martyr

O Generous patron of the Church’s poor, St. Lawrence, pray to the One God, Father, Son and  Holy Spirit that all the poor of the Church in need in every corner of the world may feel the effect of the love of their brothers and sisters who seek to help them.

Deliver the Church from the greed and envy of the powerful and protect her rights and property so that she may serve the needy in freedom, giving them good things for soul and body.

May we come some day with all those whom we helped on earth to the bright mansions of heaven where we will enjoy the riches of God’s house and the company of the Savior who lives and reigns forever and ever.

Amen