St. Benjamin, Martyr, A.D. 424.
by VP
Posted on Sunday March 31, 2024 at 12:00AM in Saints
"He was a deacon in Persia, and one of the glorious champions of Christ in the persecution begun by the king Isdegerdes, and continued by his son and successor, Varanes. The tyrant caused him to be beaten and imprisoned. He had laid a year in the dungeon, when an ambassador from the emperor obtained his enlargement, on condition that he should never speak to any of the courtiers about religion. The ambassador passed his word in his behalf that he would not; but Benjamin, who was a minister of the gospel, declared that he could not detain the truth in captivity, conscious to himself of the condemnation of the slothful servant for having hid his talent. He therefore neglected no opportunity of announcing Christ. The king ordered him to be apprehended; but the martyr made no other reply to his threats, than by asking him what opinion he would have of any of his subjects who should renounce his allegiance to him, and join in war against him. The enraged tyrant caused reeds to be run in between the nails and flesh of his hands and feet; and a knotty stake to be thrust into his bowels to rend and tear them, under which torment he expired in the year 424.
Reasons are easily found
for dispensing with such duties as are troublesome; and it is by these
reasons that tepid souls are governed, when through an absurd nicety
they are more afraid of what will give them a short uneasiness or trouble, than of running into hell. This is not the method of the martyrs,
who living by faith, knew no other evils but such as are eternal; and
for escaping these, cheerfully offered themselves to such sufferings as
threatened nothing beyond this life. Pray for a better sense of their principles; and be not so fond of present ease, as to run the hazard of everlasting torments. If you are afraid of suffering, fear that which is eternal. Let self-love for once teach you to be so wise, as to choose the lesser evil.
It being the last day of the month,
endeavour to put a good end to it, by a hearty thanksgiving for all
blessings and preservations, and for all afflictions too; and by a
sincere contrition for all your offences, for your sins of ignorance, for your hidden and unknown sins. Resolve upon amendment, and beg for grace, that it may be effectual." The Catholic Year by Rev. Fr. John Gother
St. Armogastes, Martyr, A.D. 457
by VP
Posted on Friday March 29, 2024 at 12:00AM in Saints
"A nobleman in Africa, who, in the persecution of the Vandals was apprehended, and most cruelly tortured. But no sooner had the jailers bound him with cords, than they broke of themselves, as the martyr lifted up his eyes to heaven; and this happened several times. And though they afterwards hung him up by one foot with his head downwards for a considerable time, the saint was no more affected by this torment than if he had been all the while upon a soft bed. He seemed, however, so desirous of martyrdom, that the malice of his enemies reprieved him from the sentence of death pronounced against him, that he might be deprived of the glory of dying a martyr. He was therefore sent to work in the mines; and afterwards for more public ignominy, to keep cows in a place near Carthage, where he was exposed to the eyes of all. But this was no confusion to him, who knew how to glory in being dishonoured by men, for the interest of truth, and of God.
Learn from this holy man the spirit of Christianity, which is not to be pleased with the esteem of men, but rather in being despised by them. It is pride and self-love that make us solicitous to please, and give disquiet upon the apprehension of contempt. And according to the degree of this solicitude and disquiet, may be taken the truest measures of a prevailing pride, and of self-love not subdued. Let this be your daily observation; and accordingly use daily endeavours for overcoming that which must be overcome. For until you have gained this point, of placing your satisfaction in doing your duty, whether it pleases others or displeases; and can think yourself happy in those accidents which bring abjection with them, and disesteem, which are justly due to your unworthiness and state of sin, you have not the spirit of the Gospel, nor that humility which Christ has taught you. Pray therefore, and labour every day to obtain it. Pray that like this saint, you may consider it your true glory to be dishonoured before man in the sacred cause of God and religion." The Catholic Year by Rev. Fr. John Gother
Prayer to Our Lady Help of Christians. ( Raccolta, 1935)
Virgin most powerful, loving helper of the Christian people, how great thanks do we not owe thee for the assistance thou didst give our fathers, who, when they were threatened by the Turkish infidels, invoked thy maternal help by the devout recitation of thy Rosary! From heaven thou didst see their deadly peril; thou didst hear their voices imploring thy compassion; and their humble prayers, enjoined by the great Pope, Saint Pius the Fifth, were acceptable unto thee, and thou camest quickly to deliver them. Grant, dear Mother, that in like manner the prolonged sighs of the holy Bride of Christ in these our days may come to thy throne and engage thy pity; do thou, moved anew to compassion for her, rise once again to deliver her from the many foes who encompass her on every side.
Even now from the four quarters of the earth there arises to thy
throne that lovéd prayer, to win thy mercy in these troublous times even
as of old. Unhappily our sins hinder, or at least retard, its effect.
Wherefore, dear Mother, obtain for us true sorrow for our sins and a
firm resolution to face death itself rather than return to our former
iniquities; we are sore distressed that, through our fault, thy help, of
which we stand in such extreme need, should be denied or come too late.Rise, then, O Mary, incline thyself to hear the prayers of the whole
Catholic world, and beat flat to the ground the pride of those wretched
men, who in their insolence blaspheme Almighty God and would destroy His
Church, against which, according to the infallible words of Christ, the
gates of hell shall never prevail. Let it be seen once more that when
thou dost arise to protect the Church, her victory is sure. Amen. SC Ind 1891; SP Ap 1935
Saint Sixtus III, Pope
by VP
Posted on Thursday March 28, 2024 at 12:05AM in Saints
"He was a priest among the Roman clergy in 418, when pope Zozimus condemned the Pelagian heretics. Sixtus was the first after this sentence, who pronounced publicly anathema against them, to stop their slander in Africa that he favored their doctrine, as we are assured by St. Austin and St. Prosper in his chronicle. The former sent him two congratulatory letters the same year, in which he applauds this testimony of his zeal; and, in the first of these letters, professes an high esteem of a treatise wrote by him in defense of the grace of God against its enemies. It was that calumny of the Pelagian heretics that led Garnier into the mistake that our saint at first favored their errors. But a change of this kind would not have been buried in silence. After the death of St. Celestine, Sixtus was chosen pope in 432. He wrote to Nestorius, to endeavor to reclaim him, after his condemnation at Ephesus, in 431: but his heart was hardened, and he stopped his ears against all wholesome admonitions. The pope had the comfort to see a happy reconciliation made, by his endeavors, between the Orientals and St. Cyril: in which he much commended the humility and pacific dispositions of the latter. He says "that he was charged with the care and solicitude of all the churches in the world, and that it is unlawful for anyone to abandon the faith of the apostolic Roman Church, in which Saint Peter teaches in his successors what he received from Christ." When Bassus, a nobleman of Rome, had been condemned by the emperor, and excommunicated by a synod of bishops, for raising a grievous slander against the good pope, the meek servant of Christ visited and assisted him in person, administered him the Viaticum in his last sickness, and buried him with his own hands. Julian of Eclanum or Eculanum, the famous Pelagian, earnestly desiring to recover his see, made great efforts to be admitted to the communion of the church; pretending that he was become a convert, and used several artifices to convince our saint that he really was so; but he was too well acquainted with them to be imposed on. This holy pope died soon after, on the 28th of March in 440, having sat in the see near eight years." Source: The Lives of the Primitive Fathers, Martyrs, and Other Principal Saints By Rev. Fr. Alban Butler 1798
Prayer for the Pope and for the Church
O Jesus, invisible head of that Church
which thou hast built upon a rock, and against which thou hast promised
that the gates of hell shall never prevail, preserve, strengthen, and
guide him, whom thou hast appointed its visible head. Grant that
he may be the model as well as the pastor of thy flock. May he be the
first in holiness, as well as dignity. May he be the worthy Vicar of thy
charity, as well as of thy authority. Inspire him with an ardent
desire for thy glory and for the salvation of souls; and give him
faithful and zealous cooperators, who, by their example and words, will
move and convert sinners; confirm the just, and lead them through the
dangers of this life to the mansions of eternal bliss. Amen
St. Vincentʼs Manual, 1856 page 493
St. John of Egypt, Hermit, A.D. 394.
by VP
Posted on Wednesday March 27, 2024 at 12:00AM in Saints
"At twenty-five years of age he forsook the world, and put himself under the direction of an ancient holy anchoret with such humility and simplicity as struck the venerable old man with admiration. By him he was inured to obedience and other virtues during about twelve years, when the venerable old man died. When St. John was about forty years of age, he retired to the top of a rock, where he walled up his cell, leaving only a little window, through which he received what was brought him for his support, and spoke to those who visited him for their spiritual comfort and edification. He was reverenced by all of his time, and particularly by the Emperor Theodosius the Great, to whom he foretold his victory over Eugenius. He never eat bread, or any thing prepared by fire. His only food was the fruits of the earth; he never eat till sunset, and then very sparingly. During five days in the week he conversed with God alone: but on Saturdays and Sundays all but women had free access to him for his instructions and spiritual advice. In this manner did he live from about the fortieth to the ninetieth year of his age. He was illustrious for miracles, and a wonderful spirit of prophecy, with the power of discovering to those that came to see him their most secret thoughts and hidden sins. And such was the fame of his predictions, and the lustre of his miracles, which he wrought on the sick, by sending them some oil which he had blessed, that they drew the admiration of the whole world upon him. Having been favoured with a foresight of his death, he would see nobody for the last three days. At the end of this term he sweetly expired, being on his knees at prayer, towards the close of the year 394, or the beginning of 395.
You can more easily admire the saints
than imitate them; but ought not this example to be some direction for
this time as to recollection and fasting? Can you cut off nothing of your usual dissipations, so to apply your mind to a serious examination of your state, and to the means necessary for your amendment? Can you practice nothing of his solitude and recollection? Solitude is the dwelling of a seraph upon earth, whose sole employment is to correct the disorders of his soul, to forget the world, and converse, as far as possible, with God alone." The Catholic Year by Rev. Fr. John Gother
Saint Irenaeus, Bishop of Sirmich, (died 304 A.D.)
by VP
Posted on Tuesday March 26, 2024 at 12:56AM in Saints
"The Obligation of Good Example: St. Irenaeus was bishop of Sirmich, in Pannonia, when the edict of Dioclesian's persecution overwhelmed the Church and spread terror abroad. The bishop having been conducted before Probus, governor of the province, gave proof of a courage unequaled, not only in resisting the threats launched against him, but still more in contemning the flattering promises made to him if he would consent to sacrifice to idols. He was beaten with rods, and afterwards sentenced to be thrown into the river after being beheaded. The holy martyr joyfully stripped off his clothing, and uttered this prayer: "I thank Thee, my God, for having deigned to let me suffer death for the glory of Thy name and for the safeguarding of the Christian people of Sirmich. Vouchsafe to receive me in Thy mercy, and by my example fortify The people in the faith."
Moral Reflection: Good example is one of the main duties of every one invested with a dignity, or exercising any spiritual authority whatever. Every one is responsible toward his inferiors for the bad example he gives, and the good example which he should have afforded: "For a most searching judgment shall be for them that bear rule." (Wisdom 6. 6.)" Source: Pictorial half hours with the saints by Rev. Fr. Auguste Lecanu
Prayer for Holy Bishops (Saint John Fisher)
Lord, according to Your promise that the
Gospel should be preached throughout the whole world, raise up men fit
for such work.
The Apostles were but soft and yielding clay till they were baked hard
by the fire of the Holy Ghost.
So, Good Lord, do now in like manner again with Thy Church Militant;
change and make the soft and slippery earth into hard stones;
set in Thy Church strong and mighty pillars, that may suffer and endure
great labors, watching, poverty, thirst, hunger, cold and heat;
which also shall not hear the threatenings of princes, persecution,
neither death but always persuade and think with themselves to
suffer with a good will, slanders, shame, and all kinds of torments,
for the glory and laud of Thy Holy Name. By this manner, good Lord,
the truth of Thy Gospel shall be preached throughout all the world.
Therefore, merciful Lord, exercise Thy mercy, show it indeed upon Thy
Church. Source
Saint John Fisher (Sermon in 1508) from Saint John Fisher Forum
Biography of St. Irenaeus by St. Alphonsus Liguori:
"It is believed that St. Irenaeus was born in the city of which he was afterwards bishop; and, although it is probable that his parents were pagans, he professed the faith of Jesus Christ from his childhood. He married at an early age, and had many children, whom he left young behind him at the time of his martyrdom. This saint gave such extraordinary examples of virtue, that he deserved to be made Bishop of Sirmium while yet a young man; and from the time he received that charge, he ceased not to combat the enemies of the faith, and to defend his flock from their artifices, until he terminated a brilliant career in the glory of martyrdom.
The edicts of the Emperor Diocletian against the Christians were published in Sirmium in the year 304, and Probus, the governor of Lower Pannonia, was most indefatigable in putting them into execution. The ecclesiastics, and particularly the bishops, were the first objects of his unholy zeal; for he thought that by striking the pastors he could the more easily disperse the flock of Jesus Christ.
Irenaeus was accordingly arrested, and brought before Probus, who said to him : "Obey the imperial edicts, and sacrifice to the gods." The saint replied: ''The Scripture saith that whosoever sacrifices to false gods shall be exterminated."
Probus: "The princes have commanded that all Christians shall sacrifice to the gods, or shall be tortured."
Irenaeus: " But I have been commanded to suffer all tortures rather than deny my God, and sacrifice to demons."
Probus: "Either sacrifice, or I will put thee to the torture."
Irenaeus: " In doing so, thou shalt please me; for thus shall I be made a participator of the Passion of my Savior."
Hereupon the governor commanded that he should be tortured; and, seeing that he suffered much, said: " What dost thou now say, Irenaeus ? Wilt thou now sacrifice?" The saint replied: "I sacrifice, by my confession, to my God, to whom I have always sacrificed." During the torments of St. Irenaeus, his father, his wife and children, his domestics and friends, came to implore of him to obey the emperors. His children embraced his feet, crying out: " Father, if thou hast no pity for thyself, have pity, at least, on us." The wife, with many tears, besought him not to leave her disconsolate; while his friends exhorted him not to throw away his life in his youth. But the saint, like an immovable rock upon which the waves lose their strength, armed himself against their assaults with the words of the Savior: But he that shall deny me before men, I will also deny him before my Father who is in heaven. To their importunities he returned not a single word of reply, but sighed only for the consummation of his martyrdom. Probus then said to him: "Irenaeus, abandon this thy folly; sacrifice to the gods, and destroy not thyself in the prime of life." The saint answered: " It is that I may not destroy myself for all eternity, that I refuse to sacrifice." He was then taken down and sent to prison, where he had to endure various tortures for several days. After some time, Probus, seated upon his tribunal, ordered that the holy bishop should be again brought before him, and, upon his appearance, said: "Irenaeus, now at length sacrifice, and free thyself from the torments which otherwise await thee." The saint replied: " Do that which thou art commanded to do, and do not at all imagine that I am likely to obey thee." Probus, enraged at this answer, caused him to be scourged in his presence, during which infliction the saint said: " From my childhood I have adored the one only God, who has always assisted and comforted me, and I can not adore gods made by the hands of men."
Probus: " Let the torments which thou hast already suffered suffice thee; free thyself from death."
Irenaeus: " I do free myself from death, when, by the pains which I suffer, I gain eternal life."
The governor then asked him, whether he had a wife, children, or parents alive; but Irenaeus answered that he had not, adding: "I say I have not, because Jesus Christ hath declared that whosoever loveth father or mother, wife or children, more than Him, is not worthy of Him."
Probus: "Sacrifice at least for thy children's sake."
Irenaeus: "My children have God to provide for them."
Probus: " Do not oblige me to put thee again to the torture."
Irenaeus: "Do thy pleasure; but thou shalt see what constancy my Lord Jesus Christ will give me to overcome all thy arts."
Probus then ordered Irenaeus to be cast into the river; but the saint, hearing the sentence, exclaimed: " I thought, that, after so many threats, thou wouldst have caused me to suffer many tortures, and to be cut to pieces; I beseech thee to do so, that thou mayest perceive how Christians, who have faith in God, despise death."
Probus, enraged at these words, ordered that the saint should be beheaded, and then cast into the river. The holy bishop, perceiving that his end was approaching, returned thanks to Jesus Christ for having given him the necessary fortitude, and for calling him, by such a death, to the participation of his glory. When he arrived at the bridge of Diana, which was the place selected for the execution, he threw off his garments, and prayed thus: "O Lord Jesus Christ! who didst vouchsafe to die for the salvation of the world, I beseech Thee that Thy angels may receive my soul; since I most willingly suffer death for the honor of Thy name, and the edification of Thy Church. Receive me into Thy glory for Thy mercy's sake, and strengthen my flock in Thy holy faith." His head was then struck off, and his body thrown into the river Save. "
Saint Gabriel the Archangel
by VP
Posted on Sunday March 24, 2024 at 12:00AM in Saints
Saint Gabriel, the Archangel, El Greco
"The name Gabriel signifies the strength of God, and well becomes the holy archangel, whose feast we celebrate this day; inasmuch as he was the chosen ambassador of God, in the greatest of mysteries, the Incarnation of His divine Son. He had been sent long before to the prophet Daniel, to announce to him the mysterious period of seventy weeks, which were to elapse from the going forth of the decree for rebuilding Jerusalem, to the coming of the world's Redeemer. Thus this holy archangel was sent early to announce the great mystery of the Incarnation.
Again we find St. Gabriel appearing to Zachary in the temple, to bring him the good tidings of the approaching birth of St. John the Baptist. He was the great precursor of the Messias; and St. Gabriel was sent to announce his nativity, on account of the intimate connexion between that event and the Incarnation of the Son of God.
But the greatest and most solemn embassy of the archangel Gabriel, was at the Annunciation of the Blessed Virgin Mary; when he was sent to declare the adorable counsels of God to her, and solicit her consent to become the mother of the incarnate Son of God. He was sent to the city of Nazareth, to the Blessed Virgin, to declare to her the joyful tidings that she was chosen to be the Mother of the Son of God, and to bring forth the long-expected and promised Messias. The heavenly messenger, entering her house, saluted her with great reverence, and said to her: "Hail full of grace, the Lord is with thee." Having removed her trouble and surprise at this salutation, he told her of the great mystery to be performed in her, and that she should conceive, and bring forth the Son of God. Having delivered this message, and received her consent, he departed: and by the ineffable operation of the Holy Ghost, she conceived the Saviour of the world. The most exalted commission was here given to St. Gabriel; and he was sent to treat of the most important affair which the world had ever witnessed.
Beseech this holy archangel to obtain for you to be duly penetrated with these sacred mysteries, of which he was the august messenger from God to man. Pray that you may faithfully accomplish the will of God, and be at all times sweetly united to Him. Pray that you may ever walk in His holy presence, and lead the lives of angels on earth, that so you may be associated with those pure spirits hereafter." The Catholic Year by Rev. Fr. John Gother
"’Twas you, Gabriel, that taught us the salutation with which we should greet Mary full of grace. You were the first to pronounce these sublime words, which you brought from Heaven. The children of the Church are now, day and night, repeating these words of yours. Pray for us that we may say them in such a manner as that our Blessed Mother may find them worthy of her acceptance.
Angel of Strength, Friend of Mankind, relent not in your ministry of aiding us. We are surrounded by terrible enemies. Our weakness makes them bold. Come to our assistance, get us courage. Pray for us during these days of conversion and penance. Obtain for us the knowledge of all we owe to God in consequence of that ineffable mystery of the Incarnation of which you were the first witness. We have forgotten our duties to the Man-God, and we have offended Him: enlighten us, that so, henceforth, we may be faithful to His teachings and examples. Raise up our thoughts to the happy abode where you dwell. Assist us to merit the places left vacant by the fallen Angels, for God has reserved them for His elect among men.
Pray, Gabriel, for the Church Militant, and defend her against the attacks of Hell. The times are evil. The spirits of malice are let loose, nor can we make stand against them unless with God’s help. It is by His holy Angels that He gives victory to His Spouse. Be thou, Strength of God, foremost in the ranks. Drive heresy back, keep schism down, foil the false wisdom of men, frustrate the policy of the world, arouse the well-minded from apathy that thus, the Christ whom you announced may reign over the Earth He has redeemed, and that we may sing together with you and the whole angelic choir: Glory be to God! Peace to men!" Dom Gueranger
Prayer to the Holy Angels for Parishes
All you legions and choirs of Angels,
please make haste to come to the aid and defense of our One Holy Roman
Catholic Church. Led by St. Michael, may She be protected from
destruction within by all modernistic attempts that try to diminish the
true presence of God and take away His proper and due respect! In
particular, come to the aid of my parish (name your parish) that it may
remain or be remade to be a place of reverence and a stronghold from
which the One True Triune God may continue to lead and strengthen us.
Amen.
St. Victorian and others, Martyrs, A.D. 484
by VP
Posted on Saturday March 23, 2024 at 12:00AM in Saints
" Victorian had been made proconsul of Carthage by Huneric the Arian king of the Vandals, in the fifth century. The king, after he had published his cruel edicts against the Catholics, sent a message to him, promising the most obliging terms, to heap on him the greatest wealth and the highest honours, if he would renounce his faith. The proconsul generously answered: "Tell the king that I trust in Christ. If his majesty pleases, he may condemn me to the flames, or to wild beasts, or to any torments: but I shall never consent to renounce the Catholic Church." The tyrant became furious at this answer: nor can the tortures be imagined, which he caused the saint to endure. Victorian suffered them with joy, and amidst them finished his glorious martyrdom.
Two brothers at the same time being seized, promised to be companions in the same torments and death. This favour being desired of the executioners, they were hung up in the air with heavy weights at their feet; which one of them not supporting, desired to be released. But being called upon by his brother, and put in mind of his promise, he took fresh courage, and offered himself to still greater torments. Upon which, they were burnt with plates of iron, and torn with hooks; and thus finished their glorious martyrdom.
What can we do when we see this courage and patience of the martyrs, but be confounded within ourselves, and blush at the repeated experience of our
own weakness; there being scarce any difficulty so inconsiderable, but
what is above our courage and patience? As often as any provocation is
given us, we immediately take fire, and make passionate returns. As
often as we imagine ourselves injured, affronted, or neglected, we open our breasts to the disquiets of anger
and pride, and in our hearts despise those who have inflicted injuries
upon us. O God, when wilt thou give us a better spirit, such as may
carry us through the ordinary trials of life; that we may not be thus daily overcome by trifles, whilst others triumph over the most severe torments. O God, we bow down and acknowledge our misery, but hope that thy goodness which strengthened the martyrs, will likewise be our support." The Catholic Year by Rev. Fr. John Gother
Saint Lea of Rome, Widow, A.D. 384
by VP
Posted on Friday March 22, 2024 at 12:00AM in Saints
"She was a rich Roman lady. After the death of her husband, entering into a monastery, she was chosen abbess; and by her exemplary piety promoted all good. She had now sackcloth to succeed that rich attire, which she had worn in her conjugal state, and haircloth to take the place of her fine linen. The nights formerly wasted in entertainments, she now employs in prayer, and having been attended by many servants, she is now the servant of all. In this state of penance and humility, without any mixture of affectation, she lived till God called her to the possession of what she had sought. St. Jerome has recorded the virtues of this holy widow. He observes that in her austerities and good works, she carefully avoided all ostentation, lest she might receive her reward in this world, and not in the next. Now however she enjoys eternal rest for her short labour; she is received by choirs of angels, and cherished in Abraham's bosom.
The present season of Lent is a time of penance proper for following such an example. Look upon your sins, and see if justice does not demand it of you: there will be trouble in the practice; but this is one of those
troubles, which will be turned into joy. Let this example be always
before you. Take necessity for your rule, and keeping your eye upon it,
come as near it as you can. Let it be before you at your table, in your
clothing, sleeping, and diversions. You cannot depart many degrees from
it, but with the danger of sin. To exceed in sleep is sloth and laziness; it has no great horror in its appearance, but is the forerunner of all evils. To exceed, or be
nice in diet, is self-love and luxury; to exceed in dress, is pride and
injustice, seeking honour for what deserves contempt. Think of this seriously, taking your measures not from the world, but from the Gospel; and you will soon find reason to retrench. Ask grace to follow the dictates of such reason. Look well to your own state; and as far as you see penance and forsaking any part of this world necessary for your amendment, resolve heartily upon undertaking it. Let no niceness or self-love link you to your sins, and hinder the effects of mercy. Who knows if you shall have another opportunity given you?" The Catholic Year by Rev. Fr. John Gother
Saint Benedict, Abbot and Confessor A.D. 543.
by VP
Posted on Thursday March 21, 2024 at 12:40AM in Saints
"Having received a good education, and observed the corruption of the world, he resolved to withdraw from it. He entered into a deep cave, and continued there for three years in prayer, mortification and fasting. No one was acquainted with his retreat, but one religious man, whose care it was to supply him with bread. Offer up your prayers for all who are engaged in the corruptions of the world, and beseech God to inspire them with the thoughts of retiring from it. Though all cannot hide themselves in deserts, there are none who have it not in their power to withdraw from so much of the world, at least, as is to them an occasion of sin.
Being discovered at length in that retirement, he was obliged to quit it; but still lived in solitude, with his usual rigours. God permitted him to be assaulted with most violent temptations; but being truly apprehensive of the danger in which he was, he resolved to repel force by force, and going into a field, laid himself down in the midst of nettles and briars, till the pain had extinguished that fire which his enemy had kindled; and thus the wounds of his body became the eure of his soul: for from that time he was never molested with the like temptations. Pray for all in these difficulties, that God would be their protector and comfort. And if you are at present in peace, prepare at least, against the day of battle.
This holy man was, after this, importuned by some religious to be their abbot. But they, not relishing the discipline in which he obliged them to live, resolved to remove.him by putting poison into his drink. But God was pleased to disappoint their malice, and deliver his servant by miracle; for, upon his making the sign of the cross over the glass, it fell in pieces. St. Benedict therefore took leave of them, and going into a desert, was soon followed by many holy men, and after having established a rule, which has since brought forth many great bishops and popes, and having wrought many miracles, he made a happy end in the year 543. Give God thanks for his favours to this his servant, and pray for all the religious of his order, that the example of their founder may be the rule of their lives, and that the discipline which he established may be exactly preserved among them." The Catholic Year by Rev. Fr. John Gother
"THE AVOIDANCE OF SIN.-We are here "to live in all purity," by which he means the avoiding not only of all grave sin, but of even those which are usually looked upon as mere trivial defects. Without this, bodily abstinence will be but little worth. Therefore, in these days of Lent, let the Monk repress the curiosity of his eyes; the itching of his ears to catch whatever news may be afloat; the volubility of his tongue in speech; the affection of his heart to cling to creatures. Let him look to his sluggishness in obedience, reluctance of will to submit, and rebellion of heart against the ordinances of rule.
THE DOING OF GOOD.—This is the time in which to devote himself more especially to his duty of prayer, and to banish from it all the defects which have been suffered to creep in. It must not be a sleepy, listless, inattentive, distracted prayer, but energetic, vigilant, absorbing the whole mind in the intensity of its fervour. By tearful prayer, St. Benedict does not mean that we should weep material tears, but that our tears should be the tears of the heart; a sorrow founded upon reason; not evanescent, but abiding in the fixed resolve never again to betray Jesus Christ. Besides giving himself up to prayer, the Monk must apply his mind to reading, in order to acquire that sound doctrine which will save him from error, and fill his mind with a store of learning profitable alike both to himself and to others. In prayer he speaks to God; but while reading, it is God Who speaks to him, and whispers into the ear of his heart the suggestions of the Holy Spirit, by Whose guidance he is led onward from one degree of perfection to another, till at last he stands upon the topmost round of the ladder which enables him to reach the gate of heaven." The Teaching of St. Benedict by Rev. Fr. Francis Cuthbert Doyle 1887
PRAYER OF SAINT BENEDICT
O Lord, I place myself in your hands and dedicate myself to you. I pledge myself to do your will in all things: To love the Lord God with all my heart, all my soul, all my strength.
Not to kill. Not to steal. Not to covet. Not to bear false witness. To honor all persons. Not to do to another what I would not wish done to myself. To chastise the body. Not to seek after pleasures. To love fasting. To relieve the poor. To clothe the naked. To visit the sick. To bury the dead. To help in trouble. To console the sorrowing. To hold myself aloof from worldly ways. To prefer nothing to the love of Christ.
Not to give way to anger. Not to foster a desire for revenge. Not to entertain deceit in the heart. Not to make a false peace. Not to forsake charity. Not to swear, lest I swear falsely. To speak the truth with heart and tongue. Not to return evil for evil. To do no injury: yea, even to bear patiently any injury done to me. To love my enemies. Not to curse those who curse me, but rather to bless them. To bear persecution for justice's sake.
Not to be proud. Not to be given to intoxicating drink. Not to be an over-eater. Not to be lazy. Not to be slothful. Not to be a murmurer. Not to be a detractor. To put my trust in God.
To refer the good I see in myself to God. To refer any evil in myself to myself. To fear the Day of Judgment. To be in dread of hell. To desire eternal life with spiritual longing. To keep death before my eyes daily. To keep constant watch over my actions. To remember that God sees me everywhere. To call upon Christ for defense against evil thoughts that arises in my heart.
To guard my tongue against wicked speech. To avoid much speaking. To avoid idle talk. To read only what is good to read. To look at only what is good to see. To pray often. To ask forgiveness daily for my sins, and to seek ways to amend my life. To obey my superiors in all things rightful. Not to desire to be thought holy, but to seek holiness.
To fulfill the commandments of God by good works. To love chastity. To hate no one. Not to be jealous or envious of anyone. Not to love strife. Not to love pride. To honor the aged. To pray for my enemies. To make peace after a quarrel, before the setting of the sun. Never to despair of your mercy, O God of Mercy. Amen.
"The Medal of St. Benedict: This highly indulgenced medal bears a likeness of the great "Father of the Monastic Life." In his right hand is a cross, beside which are the words: "Crux Patric Benedicti" (The Cross of the Father Benedict"); in his left hand is the book of the Benedictine rule. At his feet are represented a chalice and a raven, symbols of the priesthood and of hermit life. Around the edge are the words: "Ejus in Obitu Nostro Praesentia Muniamur" ("At our death may we be fortified by his presence"). On the reverse side is a cross, on the vertical bar of which are the initial letters of the words "Crux Sacra Sit Mihi Lux" ("The holy Cross be my light"); on the horizontal bar are the initials of "Non Draco Sit Mihi Dux" ("Let not the Dragon be my guide"); and around are other letters signifying other Latin mottoes. At the top is usually the word "Pax" ("Peace") or the monogram IHS.
This form of the Benedict medal commemorates the 1400th anniversary of the birth of St. Benedict, celebrated in 1880. (...)
The medal of St. Benedict was first approved by Benedict XIV in 1741, an further indulgences were granted by Pius IX in 1877 and by Pius X in 1907."
Source:The Externals of the Catholic Church, By Rev. Fr. John Francis Sullivan from the Diocese of Providence p 226. 1918
The Medal Or Cross of St. Benedict: Its Origin, Meaning, and Privileges by Prosper Guéranger
St. Cuthbert, Bishop and Confessor, A.D. 687
by VP
Posted on Wednesday March 20, 2024 at 12:00AM in Saints
The Journey by Fenwick Lawson, showing the
coffin of Saint Cuthbert of Lindisfarne being carried by 6 monks,
eventually to Durham, UK.
"This saint was particularly devoted from his childhood to the love and service of God. While keeping sheep on the mountains of Northumberland, he saw one night a multitude of angels carrying up to heaven the soul of St. Aidan, bishop of Lindisfarne, which had just departed. This vision moved him to great compunction, and a strong desire of quitting the world. He soon after took the monastic habit in the monastery of Mailros. Here he applied himself continually to reading, working, watching, and praying; wholly abstaining from wine and all strong drink. After some time he was chosen prior; and afterwards prior of a larger monastery at Lindisfarne. He was a man of extraordinary patience, preserving a cheerful countenance under all adversities. He was a great lover of watching and praying, often passing nights together without sleep, employed in praying, singing psalms, and working.
Aspiring to a closer union with God, St. Cuthbert built himself a cell in the uninhabited island of Farne, intending to dedicate the remainder of his days to divine contemplation. But he was called from his solitude, and consecrated bishop of Lindisfarne. He adorned this dignity by every episcopal virtue, without changing his former method of life, being as sparing to himself as ever, whilst he was liberal to others, in feeding the hungry, clothing the naked, and exercising all other duties of his station. After governing the church of Lindisfarne for two years in a most saintly manner, he resigned his bishopric, and returned to his beloved cell in the island of Farne; and after two months he was seized with his last illness, and gave up his soul, intent on the divine praises, to take her flight to heavenly joys, on the 20th of March, 687.
Pray for your country, and all the pastors of it; that being watchful in the concerns of their flocks, and their own souls, they may live to edification, and do good to all. Imitate the spirit of prayer of St. Cuthbert, whose life was a continual prayer. Whatever he saw seemed to speak to him of God, and invite him to his holy love." The Catholic Year by Rev. Fr. John Gother
- "So devout and zealous was he in his desire after heavenly things, that when saying Mass, he could never come to the conclusion thereof without a plentiful shedding of tears. When celebrating the mysteries of our Lord's Passion, he would, very appropriately, imitate the action that he was performing, ie. in contrition of heart he would sacrifice himself to the Lord; and he exhorted those present to "lift up their hears," and " to give thanks to the Lord," more by raising up his heart than his voice, and more by his groans then his singing."
A Prayer to Saint Cuthbert
Hail, father of thy country! Hail, man of renown! Hail, thou who often bestowest upon the miserable the comforts of health! Hail, lovely glory! Hail, great hope of thy servants! Farewell merit of our own! Do thou act, thou man of piety! To thee be praise! To thee let worthy honour, to thee let thanks be given, who frequently bestowest blessings upon me, undeserving though I be. Thou art my mighty help; often hast thou been my glory. Always dost thou cherish me with thy sweetly-flowing love. Oh from how many evils, from what enemies and dangers, my father, hast thou rescued me, and still nourishest thou me in prosperity! What worthy return can I make to thee, my father? Oh thou pious Bishop! Oh Father! Oh merciful Pastor! give me thy aid. As it pleases thee, O Father, and as thou knowest my wants, give help to thy petitioner. I pray thee to remember me, thou sweet friend of God.
