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"THIS saint received his surname from the town which was his residence for the greater part of his life, and where he died. He was piously educated, and gave early signs of a virtuous life. In his childhood, he spent hours together at his prayers, with wonderful application of his mind to God. He had a tender love for the poor, and from his tender age had a habit of fasting three days in the week on bread and water. When grown up he became a religious of the Order of the reformed Augustins; and here he lived a wonderful example, not only of great austerity, but also of charity, patience, and humility. He suffered very much in his devotions from the malice of a subtle enemy, without being discouraged. Thus he went on, till he was called to a better life, in the year 1306.

What can you now learn from the method of this saint? You are not to oblige children at his tender years to fast. But if you will be kind to them, flatter not their appetites with choice bits; give them what is wholesome, but teach them not to be nice. For by courting their palates, you would teach them to love themselves, make them unfit for the penitential way of the Gospel, and very miserable, if forced at any time to struggle with the difficulties of the world. Observe the rigors of this saint: for though you cannot follow them, they will yet serve as a reproach to your selfish way, in seeking every thing that pleases. Did he think Heaven worth all his self-denials; and will you suffer nothing for it? Reflect well on this point: for all who follow Christ being commanded to deny themselves, he can be no true disciple, who is a stranger to the practice of self-denial. Learn something as to prayer. Be not discouraged with the distractions of wandering thoughts; and let no temptations frighten you from your usual exercise. Do the best you are able, and hope that God will pardon your weakness. Endeavor to prevent the growth of tares; but do not think your labor unprofitable if there be some tares among the corn.The harvest may turn to good account notwithstanding this mixture." The Catholic Year by Fr. John Gother