Liturgical Year and Calendar of the Saints

The liturgical year begins with Advent, which is a time of preparation for the celebration of Jesus' birth, and also for his second coming. The Christmas season begins with first Vespers of Christmas Eve and ends with the feast of the Baptism of Jesus. Lent is a time of repentance and conversion beginning on Ash Wednesday and ending on Holy Thursday. The Mass of the Lord's Supper on Holy Thursday begins the Easter Triduum which includes Good Friday, Holy Saturday and Easter Sunday. The Easter season continues for seven weeks ending with Pentecost which celebrates the descent of the Holy Spirit after Jesus' Ascension. The rest of the liturgical year is called Ordinary Time.

During the Liturgical year there is also a cycle of dates on which we remember particular saints. This list may vary slightly according to country or local devotions. The list of saints included here is from a Benedictine calendar and contains some Benedictine saints not found in your Missalette.

DECEMBER
3
 Francis Xavier was a Jesuit and patron of missionaries. Pray to have a missionary heart, to spread God's message to others.
4
 St John of Damascus , a monk near Jerusalem in the eighth century, is known as the last of the Greek Fathers.
6
 St Nicholas, a 4 th Century bishop in Turkey , is patron of children, brides, sailors, pawnbrokers and the countries of Greece , Sicily , and Russia . What do you think St Nicholas, the original “Santa Claus” thinks of his modern portrayal?
7
 Ambrose – In honor of Ambrose, a learned church bishop, do a bit of challenging spiritual reading today
8
 Father Marquette brought devotion to the Immaculate Conception to North America, and the bishops of the US adopted the Immaculate Conception as patron of the nation eight years before it was proclaimed a dogma by Pius IX in 1854. Let us remember God's mercy, which frees us from sin in Baptism.
9
 Juan Diego, an Aztec Indian, was chosen by our Lady of Guadalupe to bring her message to the bishop. Do we recognize God's messengers in our lives?
12
 Our Lady of Guadalupe appeared to a poor Mexican in 1531. Mary in this image is pregnant and awaits the coming of Christ into the world. How am I “expecting” Christ?
13
 Lucy means “light.” Let us make the lights of commercialism a reminder of Christ who is our Light.
14

John of the Cross wrote The Dark Night of the Soul . After focusing on joy and light, it is appropriate to remember that God is also present when we experience darkness and pain.

17-24

Meditate on the Gospel for these days from the first chapter of Matthew and of Luke.
The O Antiphons are prayed at Vespers beginning on December 17.

23
 John of Kanty was a Polish priest and professor. Pray for Poland .
25
 Christmas celebrates the dawn of the Light of the World. May that Light shine in each of us.
26
 Stephen, first martyr. Acts, Chapter 7. His death reminds us of the implications of Christ's birth for Jesus and for us.
27
 John, apostle & evangelist. His letter reminds us that Christmas is the beginning of Christ's redemption won by death and resurrection.
28
 The feast of the Holy Innocents reminds us that Christ's coming is a sign of contradiction. He came to bring joy, but also brings conflict and suffering. Pray for aborted babies and their mothers.
29
 Thomas Becket, murdered in his cathedral, reminds us of archbishop Romero, also martyred at Mass.

The Feast of the Holy Family on the Sunday after Christmas makes it clear that Jesus was born into the human condition in all its fullness. Pray for families.

The Epiphany of the Lord celebrates God's self-revelation to the Gentiles in the Magi's visit to the Infant Jesus. The date is traditionally on January 6, but in recent years has been celebrated on the Sunday after January 1. How does my life reveal God?

The Baptism of the Lord in the Jordan is also an occasion of God's self-revelation and is usually celebrated the Sunday after Epiphany. At his Baptism Jesus hears the Father say, “this is my beloved Son.” Take time today to delight in being God's beloved child.

JANUARY
1
 Today we celebrate the Motherhood of Mary, the Octave of Christmas, the beginning of the civil year, and the World Day of Peace! This is certainly a day to take some time for prayer and reflection.
2
 Saints Basil and Gregory of Nazianzen, doctors of the Church, did much to solidify the early Church's faith. They remind us too, of the great gift that friendship in the Lord can be.
4
 Elizabeth Ann Seton, a widow with children, founded the first US religious community, the first Catholic parish school and the first Catholic orphanage in the States in 1821. What am I too busy to do?
5
 John Neumann was an immigrant who became bishop of Philadelphia , a model of an urban and urbane bishop. Do we have the zeal of our ancestors in the faith?
6
 Blessed Andre Besset, born near Montreal , was known for his holiness. People still visit St. Joseph 's Shrine in Montreal that was built at his instigation. This is the third day in a row that we celebrate an American saint. May we be inspired by their faith.
7
 Raymond of Penyafort was a Dominican canonist who wrote about the sacrament of Penance. What is my appreciation of this sacrament?
10
 Gregory of Nyssa, brother of Basil, and a great teacher and writer, became the bishop of Nyssa 371. He attended the Council of Constantinople. Am I making full use of my talents?
13
 Hilary of Poitiers was a married man who was elected Bishop of Poitiers, France around 350 and spent the next 18 years combating the Arian heresy that denied the divinity of Christ. Read the first chapter of John's gospel.
15
 Maurus and Placid were young monks in Benedict's monastery who became renowned for their obedience and holiness in the daily events of life. Jesus taught, “Blessed are they who hear the Word of God and keep it.”
17
 Anthony of Egypt , Father of Monasticism and a hermit for 85 years. He learned from following God's inspiration in his life. At the request of other hermits, he organized a monastery of scattered cells. How might I learn from his example?
20
 Fabian, a layman elected pope, and Sebastian were early martyrs. Pray to live your own vocation fully.
21
 Agnes, virgin & martyr, is named in Eucharistic Prayer I. As a young girl she witnessed to her faith in Christ through martyrdom.
22
 Vincent, deacon and martyr in 303. Today is also the anniversary of Roe v. Wade. Thank God for his gift of life.
24
 Francis de Sales worked for restoration of Catholicism during the Reformation. His axiom was, “A spoonful of honey attracts more flies than a barrelful of vinegar”. Let us learn God's gentleness.
25
 Conversion of St. Paul . How has faith in Jesus changed my life?
26
 Robert, Alberic and Stephen were founders of the monastery of Citeaux and the Cistercian Order, which was a stricter living of the Benedictine Rule.
Are there habits in my life that need reform?
26 or 27

Timothy & Titus were appointed by Paul to organize the Christian community where Paul had preached the Gospel. Read one of the epistles to Timothy or Titus.

27

Angela Merici was the foundress of the Ursulines, the first teaching order of women.
What am I doing to expand my knowledge of God?

28

Thomas Aquinas, Dominican priest and doctor of the church. His eloquent writings about the Eucharist can inspire us to devotion.

31
 John Bosco was founder of the Salesians who are dedicated to education and mission work. Pray for teachers and students.

Ash Wednesday varies according to the date of Easter each year. It is a day of fast and abstinence. Wearing ashes has been a sign of public penance since pre-Christian times and was recommended for all Catholics by Pope Urban II in 1091. Begin the day with a prayer of repentance.

FEBRUARY
2
 Presentation of the Lord celebrates Jesus, Light to the Nations, and candles are blessed today. As we await the groundhog's shadow, let us present the shadows of our own life to the Light of Christ.
3
 The feast of Blase is traditionally the day for blessing throats. Let us bless those we meet today.
5

Agatha was martyred in 251. She is the patron of nurses. Pray for nurses.

6
 Paul Miki and Companions. Twenty-six Japanese and European Jesuits, Franciscans and laymen were martyred at Nagasaki in 1597. Paul prayed from his cross, “I hope my blood will fall on my fellow men as fruitful rain.” Pray for the fruitfulness of suffering.
8
 Jerome Emiliani, a 16 th century priest, cared for victims of the plague. Is there someone I can call or visit or help in some way to alleviate their suffering?
10
 Scholastica, twin sister of Benedict, founded a community of women a few miles from Monte Cassino. Pray for Benedictine monastics and oblates.
11
 Ask our Lady of Lourdes to pray for the healing of those who suffer from any kind of illness.
14
 Cyril & Methodius were missionaries to Eastern Europe . Pray for the people of Eastern Europe .
21
 Peter Damien, bishop, religious, and a doctor of the Church calls us to solid Christian belief and practice. May our values as a church be a powerful witness to others.
22
 Chair of Peter. Apostle. Cathedra (of ex cathedra ) means chair and the feast celebrates the role of the pope for the universal Church. Pray for Pope Benedict XIV.
23
 Polycarp, Bishop of Smyrna, at age 86, refused to renounce Christ and was martyred in 155. Pray for perseverance in faithfulness.
25
 Walburga, patroness of this monastery, left England to be a missionary in Germany . She was related to Boniface, apostle of Germany . She, along with other members of her community and family, responded to his call for assistance. Are there ways that I can assist or activate my parish community in the work of God?
MARCH
3
 Katharine Drexel established a community of religious women to minister to African and Native Americans. What is my attitude and speech regarding minorities
7
 Perpetua & Felicity, African martyrs, were fed to lions soon after their baptism. Pray for catechumens.
8
 John of God founded the Brothers Hospitallers of St. John of God. Pray for the sick. Visit the sick
9
 Frances of Rome , wife, mother, founder of a religious order is co-patron of Benedictine Oblates. Frances was a wealthy woman who spent her time and family resources helping the poor. She won over opponents through trust in God.. What do I rely on? She founded the Oblates of Mary, a lay order of women attached to the Benedictines.
17

Let us imitate the missionary zeal of St. Patrick, patron of Ireland , by sharing the Good News with all we meet today.

18
 Cyril of Jerusalem , fourth century bishop of Jerusalem , doctor of the Church, is known as the greatest catechist among the early Fathers. Pray for catechists and catechumens.
19
 Joseph, husband of Mary. Let us imitate his steadfast faith.
21
 Today Benedictines remember the anniversary of St. Benedict's Passing. Pray for monastic vocations.
25
 The Annunciation. Blessed is she who believed and accepted God's invitation.

Passion (Palm) Sunday . As you hold the palm and listen to the events of Jesus' entrance into Jerusalem , be present to how he enters your life today. What can I learn about the role of suffering by meditating on the suffering of Jesus?

Check your parish bulletin for times of Triduum services.

During the Easter season the Church reads the book of Acts of the Apostles . As we follow the liturgical readings from Acts of the Apostles , let us be open to the power of the same Holy Spirit active in us.

APRIL
2
 Francis of Paola founded a community committed to fasting and abstinence regarding food. Is self-denial part of my life?
4
 Isidore of Seville , bishop of Seville , Spain was born into a family of saints, but this did not protect him from abusive treatment by his family that drove him to run away. He learned from his experience and became a brilliant teacher and bishop. Does hardship strengthen me or embitter me?
5
 Vincent Ferrer was influential in the resolution of the Western Schism when three men claimed to be the pope. How can I be a peacemaker?
7
 John the Baptist de La Salle founded the Christian Brothers. Pray for them and the young people they educate.
11
 Stanislaus, patron of Krakow , Poland , was killed by the king for denouncing the king's cruelties. May we have the courage to speak the truth no matter how difficult the circumstances.
13
 Martin I, pope and martyr, died for opposing the emperor on doctrinal matters. As the struggle between light and darkness continues in today's world, what am I willing to sacrifice to bring Christ's Light?
21
 Anselm, bishop and doctor of the Church, was famous for his theological writings, which were born of his motto: faith seeking understanding. Reading the Fathers of the Church can be a fascinating way to see the continuity of church teaching and to appreciate the struggles of the Christian community since the beginning.
23
 St. George is pictured slaying a dragon. He reminds us that Jesus sustains us in battle against our own "dragons."
25
 Mark is one of the four Evangelists, and today's reading from 1 Peter reminds us that he traveled with Peter. Read a portion of Mark's Gospel today. It wouldn't take long to read his whole Gospel. It is the shortest of the four Gospels.
28
 Peter Chanel, Marist priest and martyr, was martyred on Futuna (between Fiji and Somoa). To what mission is the Spirit calling me?
29

Catherine of Siena , a fourteenth-century mystic and doctor of the church, wrote extensively about the cross, negotiated secular and ecclesiastical treaties, and encouraged the pope to move from Avignon to Rome and turned people away from the anti-pope. Write to your congressman or to the editor of your newspaper about an issue that you are concerned about.

30

Pius V, Pope after the Council of Trent, published a Roman Catechism, the Breviary and the Missal used for 400 years until 1970. What reforms are needed in my life?

MAY
1
 St. Joseph the Worker reminds us of the value of our work.
2
 Athanasius, a 4 th Century bishop of Alexandria in Egypt , was a great champion of the faith against the Arian Heresy, which denied the divinity of Christ.
3
 We celebrate this feast of Philip and James, apostles, as an opportunity to enter more fully into the spirit of discipleship inherent in Easter.
10
 Blessed Damien Joseph de Veuster of Molokai gave his life to serve lepers. How willing am I to serve others?
11
 Odo, Maiolus, Odilo, Hugh and Peter were abbots. Benedict advises abbots to teach what is good and holy more by example than by words. How does that admonition apply to my life?
13
 Celebrate the feast of Our Lady of Fatima by saying the rosary.
14
 Matthias' election after Pentecost came as a result of prayer and dependence on the Holy Spirit. How are my important decisions made?
15
 Pachomius promoted the concept of a religious community of monks in its beginnings! Let us pray for our own communities: family, business, parish, etc.
18

John I, pope and martyr, offers witness to the courage to stand up to civil rulers. How do I contribute to civic affairs?

20
 Bernadine of Siena , a great Franciscan preacher in fifteenth-century Italy , had a special devotion to the name of Jesus. Recall the Name of Jesus today with devotion.
25

Bede the Venerable was a great Benedictine monk and scholar. As a historian, he saw the hand of God in all human events. Can we?

26

Philip Neri, a 16th Century priest, was known for his zeal and joyful spirituality - a wonderful way for any Christian to be remembered!

26
 Pope Gregory VII was a great Church reformer. Pray for the Pope today.
27
 Augustine of Canterbury was sent by Gregory the Great to evangelize Britain . To what place has the Lord sent me to spread His Word?
31
 Visitation - a fitting end to Mary's month! Pray with Mary, "My soul magnifies the Lord."

The Ascension is less about Jesus' departure than it is about His presence. Now He is present for all ages as Risen Lord.

Pentecost ends the Easter Season. It is a day for being Church, for being Christ'sBody on earth, and for being led by the Spirit to continue the work of Christ. “Come Holy Spirit fill the hearts of your faithful and enkindle in us the fire of your love.”

Trinity Sunday - a feast of God's love. Trinitarian love is so powerful that Three are One. As Christians we are called to image God through a community of love.

The Body and Blood of Christ (Sunday after Trinity Sunday) combines the former feast of Corpus Christi and the feast of the Precious Blood, and we celebrate the fullness of the sacramental presence of Christ.

The feast of the Sacred Heart (Friday after the celebration of the Body and Blood of Christ) reminds us of the inexhaustible love of Christ. May our own hearts burn with the love of the Spirit.

Immaculate Heart of Mary (day after the feast of the Sacred Heart) is a remembrance of Mary's love for God and for us.

JUNE
1
 Justin was a seeker of truth. He was able to write defending the faith and to explain it in terms of pagan philosophy. He was martyred during the persecution of Marcus Aurelius. What will I risk in seeking God who is Truth?
2
 Marcellinus and Peter, martyrs of the early church, remind us that we are called to total dedication.
3
 Charles Lwanga and companions, martyrs. Africa today is torn by problems and also marked by a young and vibrant Catholicism. Pray for the problems; also pray for a share in their enthusiastic faith.
5
 Boniface, Bishop, martyr, Benedictine monk, and missionary, is honored as the patron of Germany . Pray for missionaries.
6
 Norbert founded the Norbertines in the 12 th century to combat heresies against the Eucharist. Read the Last Supper account in Matthew, Mark or Luke and meditate on the meaning of Eucharist.
9
 Ephrem of Syria , a Doctor of the Church, represents the ancient cultures of Mesopotamia , land of Biblical origins. Recall your own roots in the faith.
11
 Barnabas is called an apostle, but not one of the twelve. He is mentioned in Acts 11:21-26 & 13:1-3.
13
 Anthony of Padua is a lovable saint claimed as a patron by many. It was his life of Gospel poverty that made his preaching so effective. What is my attitude toward material goods?
19
 Romuald, founder of the Camaldolese Order, was known for persevering in prayer even in times of spiritual darkness. Let us follow his example.
21
 Aloysius Gonzaga, a Jesuit seminarian, died of the plague which he contracted while helping the ill. Does my faith inspire me to help others?
22

John Fisher, bishop, and Thomas More, married man, died for witnessing to their faith in opposition to King Henry VIII. To what am I willing to witness in the face of social pressure?

24
 Birth of John the Baptist. At the Annunciation Mary was told that her cousin Elizabeth was in her sixth month. Notice that we celebrate the birth of John the Baptist three months after the Annunciation. Pray the Canticle of Zachary, Lk 1:67.
27
 Cyril of Alexandria was a bishop and Father of the Church. Let us take time to review the teachings of the Creed. The Catechism might be a good place to begin.
28

Irenaeus, bishop and martyr of 2 nd century Lyons , compiled a list of bishops of churches founded by the apostles, thus witnessing to apostolic succession

29
 Peter and Paul. All churches in communion with Rome celebrate their apostolic foundation today. Peter stands for the institutional church, while Paul represents the charismatic dimension.
30
 The First Martyrs of Rome were the Christians Nero accused and had executed for the burning of Rome .How do I respond when falsely accused?
JULY
1
 Blessed Junipero Serra founded Spanish missions in California . Pray for missionaries.
3
 Thomas the Apostle is the patron of India . Let us pray for India .
4

Elizabeth of Portugal was a married queen with duties to family and country. Let us remember her when responsibilities weigh us down. Let us pray on this Independence Day that our country will be a land of freedom and justice for all. Let us also pray for those traveling this holiday.

6
 Goretti was canonized in 1950 as a martyr for chastity. Pray for victims of rape.
9

Augustine Zhao Rong, Chinese convert and priest, died while imprisoned for his faith. Pray for the Church in China .

11
 Benedict, Abbot, Patriarch of Western Monasticism, sought God in solitude, and God led him to develop a community life that transformed the society he had left. May we be open to God's transforming power.
13
 Henry II, Holy Roman Emperor in 1002, was known as a just and clement ruler, a man of prayer, and a humble ascetic. Pope Pius X named him the patron saint of Benedictine Oblates.
14

Blessed Kateri Tekawitha, a Native American, was born just west of what is now Albany, NY, and was baptized by French missionaries.

15
 Bonaventure, bishop and doctor, renewed his Franciscan order. Pray for all Franciscans.
16
 Our Lady of Mount Carmel . Ask Mary to keep all Carmelites under her patronage
21

Lawrence of Brindisi , Presbyter, Religious, and Doctor of the Church, was an effective preacher. Pray for preachers that they may speak the Word of God.

22
 Mary Magdalene, a disciple of the Lord, witnessed the death and burial of Jesus, was the first to see the risen Jesus and was sent to carry the news of the resurrection to the apostles. May we be receptive to God's messengers.
23

Bridget of Sweden , queen, mother, religious founder and mystic is a reminder that every vocation is a call to holiness.

24
 Sharbel Makhluf, monk & hermit of the Lebanese Maronite Order, was canonized by Pope Paul VI who said, “In a world largely fascinated with riches and comfort, he helps us understand the value of poverty, penance, and asceticism to liberate the soul in its ascent to God.”
25
 James the Apostle was one of the three men closest to Jesus. Spend time simply being with Jesus.
26
 Joachim & Anne were the parents of Mary and the grandparents of Jesus. Pray for parents and grandparents.
29
 Martha, Mary and Lazarus hosted the Lord. See Luke 10:38-41 and John 11:19-27.
30
 Peter Chrysologus, bishop and doctor of the Church, was named “golden-worded” because of his oratorical eloquence. May our words inspire rather than tear down others.
31
 Ignatius of Loyola, founder of the Jesuits, was converted by reading the lives of the saints. When is the last time I was inspired by reading the life of a saint? Pray for Jesuits.
AUGUST
1
 Alphonse Ligouri, Redemptorist, bishop and patron of moral theologians, taught a theology of moderation. He often preached about the Eucharist. Let us renew our Eucharistic devotion.
2
 Eusebius, was a fourth-century Italian bishop who defended the faith against Arianism, for which he was exiled by the emperor. He is a model for those called to stand up to the powerful.
4
 John Mary Vianney was a parish priest and is patron of parish priests. Pray for the priests of your parish and diocese. Remember especially those priests who have nourished and encouraged your faith.
5
 Dedication of the Basilica of St Mary Major in Rome is one of four such anniversaries of churches in Rome . We are reminded of our roots and our relatedness to the Church in Rome .
6
 We celebrate the Transfiguration of our Lord. God says, “This is my beloved Son; listen to Him.”
7

Pope Sixtus II and Companions were martyred in the Roman persecutions of Valerian. Cajetan, an Italian lawyer and priest, founded the Congregation of Clerks Regular in Rome to work for the renewal of preaching and the clergy. Let us pray for the church in Rome .

8
 Dominic, founder of the Order of Preachers, based his preaching on speaking of God or with God. To whom, of what do I speak?
9

St. Teresa Benedicta of the Cross (Edith Stein), Jewish convert, Carmelite nun, martyred at Auschwitz , 1942, canonized in 1998. Let us remember that martyrdom is not a thing of the past.

10
 Lawrence, a deacon in the early church, had such faith in Christ's promise of new life, that he joked with his executioners. Can I bring gentle humor into difficult situations?
11
 Clare who founded the Poor Clares, lived the Gospel as literally and fully as her more well-known friend, Francis. How can I live the Gospel more fully?
12
 Jane Frances de Chantel and Frances de Sales refrained from polemics in a post Reformation period and inspired people with the robustness of a full sacramental life. May we follow their example so that the Gospel may always be heard as Good News.
13

Hippolytus, a Roman presbyter and an important author of early liturgy, was also a schismatic leader who was eventually reconciled to his bishop. This is a good reminder to pray for Church unity.

14

Maximilian Kolbe died in Auschwitz when he voluntarily took the place of a married man who was arbitrarily chosen to die in retaliation for the escape of a prisoner. The man survived the war. To love my neighbor as myself can be challenging.

15
 Feast of the Assumption of Mary. In proclaiming this ancient belief to be a dogma of faith, Pope Pius XII listed its benefits: A stronger piety towards Mary, a more universal conviction on the value of human life devoted to God's will, a repudiation of the materialism that diverts body and soul from their lofty goal, and "Finally, it is our hope that belief in Mary's bodily Assumption into heaven will make our belief in our own resurrection stronger and render it more effective."
16
 Stephen, King of Hungary, is revered as one largely responsible for the Christianization of Hungary. How do I share the Good News?
20

Bernard of Clairvaux, abbot, seems to have been everywhere in the early twelfth century preaching, writing, reforming. How does my faith inspire and energize me for action?

21
 Pope Pius X is remembered as a pastoral pope who promoted the renewal of the church. He lowered the age for first communion, promoted congregational singing at liturgy, fostered the foundation of biblical institutes, reorganized the Curia and began codifying Canon Law. How well do I balance a nurturing attitude and efficiency?
22

Queenship of Mary. God chooses the weak and lowly to do great things. This can be a consolation - or a challenge - if we think of ourselves as powerful and important.

23
 Rose of Lima was the first canonized saint of the New World . Enduring opposition from her parents, she devoted herself to prayer, penance and service to the elderly, the sick and homeless children. What does St. Rose's steadfastness say to me?
24
 Bartholomew (also called Nathaniel) the Apostle was described by Jesus as a man without guile. If I were brought to meet Jesus face to face, how would he describe me?
27
 Monica, whose prayers and charity led to the conversion of her husband and her son, reminds us of the power of prayer and example.
28
 Augustine, Monica's son, and a bishop and doctor of the church. His Confessions tell of his conversion as an adult. This is a good day to pray for our own continuing conversion.
29
 The martyrdom of John the Baptist calls us to courage in speaking the truth.
  • Labor Day, a civil holiday, is a good time to consider the place of work in our lives: its purpose and its relationship to other dimensions of life.
SEPTEMBER
3
 Pope Saint Gregory the Great sent Augustine of Canterbury and companions to England as missionaries. The Life and Miracles of St Benedict are found in the Dialogues written by St. Gregory in the early 600's. Reflect on the possibilities of one person's influence on history.
8
 The Birth of Mary is a feast of joyful expectancy. Which expectations in my life lead to joy?
9
 Peter Claver, a Spanish Jesuit, spent most of his adult life serving black slaves in Columbia . Look for ways to be of service.
12
 The Holy Name of Mary. Pray for all those named in honor of Mary.
13
 John Chrysostom died on tomorrow's feast, the Triumph of the Cross, a feast he had preached so well. What feast, virtue or saint would I like to be identified with? How can I make it my life's theme song?
14
 The Exaltation of the Cross commemorates the dedication of the church erected by Constantine , in 335 AD over the sites of Christ's Crucifixion and Resurrection. It occurs 40 days after the Feast of the Transfiguration on August 6.
15
 Our Lady of Sorrows. Our Blessed Mother knows how to be with us in both joy and sorrow.
16
 Cornelius and Cyprian , bishops of Rome and Carthage , were martyred in the mid-third century. What kind of men accepted an office with a death sentence attached?
17
 Robert Bellarmine, Jesuit scholar, theologian and cardinal who opposed heresy. He was the spiritual father of St. Aloysius Gonzaga, helped St. Francis de Sales obtain approval of the Visitation Order, and in his prudence opposed severe action in the case of Galileo. He wrote many works of devotion and instruction, as well as controversy.
17
 Hildegarde of Bingen, a Benedictine nun, mystic, nurse, poet and musician has been “rediscovered” in recent years. Let us remember that holiness can touch all aspects of our lives.
19
 Januarius. Whatever the explanation of the liquefaction of his blood in the Cathedral of Naples, it can remind us of the centrality of blood in our ecclesial life and deepen our participation from the Eucharistic cup.
20
 Andrew Kim Taegon, priest, and Paul Chong Hasang, catechist, and their 103 companions were martyred in Korea from 1839 to 1867. Let us pray for the church in Korea .
21
 Matthew is remembered as leaving his collected taxes to follow Jesus. What am I willing to sacrifice to follow Jesus.
23

Padre Pio was canonized June 2002. What can we learn from this modern saint?

26
 Cosmas and Damian were martyred in Syria c. 300 AD. How do I “give my life” for the Gospel?
27
 Vincent de Paul saw that the Church's mission must be to the poorest of the poor. Let us pray for the Vincentians and the Sisters and Daughters of Charity – Vincent's spiritual sons and daughters.
28
 Lawrence Ruiz and Companions. Lawrence was a husband and father and the first Filipino to be canonized. Today we remember Ruiz and his companions, lay and ordained, who were martyred in Nagasaki from 1633-1637, and we thank God for the universality of our faith.
29
 Michael, Gabriel and Raphael, archangels. Let us join them in the praise of God.
30
 Jerome translated Scripture into Latin. May we translate it into our daily lives.
OCTOBER
1
 Therese of the Child Jesus entered a Carmelite convent at age 15 and lived a hidden and humble life. Her “little way” of holiness has inspired many.
2
 Feast of the Guardian Angels. Let us be grateful for God's constant care.
3
 Blessed Columba Marmion wrote Christ the Ideal of the Monk. How is Christ the “Ideal of the 21st Century Christian?”
4
 Francis of Assisi is associated with animals and flowers. How can we help the environment?
6
 Bruno founded the Carthusians. Try to find a time for silence today.
7
 Honor Our Lady of the Rosary by praying the rosary.
9
 Denis and Companions gave their lives for their faith. Is “sacrifice” still part of my religious vocabulary?
14
 Callistus I, pope and martyr in the early church, was criticized by the priest Hippolytus for being too lenient with sinners. Both died as martyrs of Rome .
15
 Teresa of Jesus (her Carmelite name), sixteenth–century mystic and reformer of her Carmelite Order, is also known as Teresa of Avila. What identification would I like to add to my name?
16
 Hedwig was a Polish mother of seven who lived in a monastery after the death of her husband and used her wealth for the poor. She might be an inspiration for those considering a second career.
16
 Margaret Mary Alacoque was a French mystic who spread devotion to the Sacred Heart based on her private revelations. Both are saints. May I be sanctified in my particular circumstances.
17
 Ignatius of Antioch , on his way to being fed to lions wrote, “I will gladly die for God.” What do I gladly live for?
18
 On the feast of Luke the evangelist and physician, let us pray for all in the health care professions.
19
 Isaac Jogues, John de Brebeuf and Companions. Let these “North American Martyrs” inspire us to share our faith with others.
23
 John Capistrano was a married lawyer who later became a Franciscan. Pray for all who are seeking God, especially lawyers.
24
 Anthony Mary Claret was bishop of Santiago , Cuba . Let us pray for Cuba .
28

Simon and Jude were apostles. We too are called to announce the Good News.

NOVEMBER
1
 All Saints Day began in the early Church as a festival of Martyrs and was celebrated in the Easter season (a custom retained by the Byzantine calendar). Gradually it became "All Saints" and moved to November 1, probably to replace the Celtic pagan New Year's Day.
2
 The Commemoration of All the Faithful Departed. Pray for those who have died.
3
 Martin de Porres, a Peruvian of mixed race, ministered to the sick, poor and slaves of all races.
4
 Charles Borromeo, bishop, was a Church reformer. Where do our lives need reforming?
9
 The Dedication of St. John Lateran. The complex of buildings in Rome called the "Lateran" was given to the pope by Emperor Constantine. It became the cathedral of the bishop of Rome and was eventually dedicated to St. John the Baptist.
10
 Pope Leo the Great is said to have met with Attila the Hun and saved Rome . Pray for peacemakers.
11
 Martin of Tours left military service because of his commitment to Christ. Today we remember veterans who saw military service as an expression of love. Let us be grateful to God who sees hearts.
13

Francis Xavier Cabrini was the first citizen of the United States to be canonized (1946). She is the patron of immigrants. Where would she stand in today's discussions on immigration?

15
 Albert the Great was the teacher of Thomas Aquinas. Don't hesitate to spread the Good News. You don't know who might be listening.
16
 Gertrude was a Cistercian nun and mystic at Helfta , Germany . Today devote extra time to be with God in prayer.
17
 Elizabeth of Hungary is patroness of Catholic Charities & the Franciscan Third Order. Pray for both.
18
 Dedication of Churches of St. Peter and St. Paul . How can I imitate these great apostles in building up God's people?
18
 Rose Philippine Duchesne, a Religious of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, was buried in Missouri in 1852 after a long life of teaching in France and the United States . The Indians among whom she lived called her “Woman Who Prays Much.” What might our names be if they were descriptive?
19
 Mechtilde was St. Gertrude's formation director in the Benedictine community at Helfta. Later Gertrude wrote of Mechtilde's visions. Who have been my teachers in the faith?
20
 Anniversary of the Dedication of our Monastery Church . May our worship in this building build up the Body of Christ.
21
 Presentation of the Virgin Mary. We look to Mary as an inspiration of total dedication to God.
22
 Cecilia, patron of musicians, was a martyr, not a musician, but her life and death must have been music to the Lord. May my life be a song of praise to God.
23
 Clement I, the third successor of Peter, was martyred. Columban was the greatest of the Irish missionaries to Europe in the sixth and early seventh centuries. Miguel-Agustin was accused and executed as a conspirator against the Mexican government in 1927 and was immediately considered a martyr by Mexican Catholics.
24

Andrew Dung-Lac and companions were Vietnamese martyrs. Pray for Vietnam .

30
 Andrew the Apostle was described by John Chrysostom, a Father of the Church, as “waiting with utmost longing for the coming of the Messiah.” May that longing be stirred in our hearts.

Happy Thanksgiving ! Let us be grateful to God for our many blessings.

The Feast of Christ the King is celebrated on the last Sunday of the Liturgical Year. Let us renew our openness to the Kingdom of God among us.

The Season of Advent, which prepares for the celebration of Christmas, begins the Liturgical Year.