இன்றைய புனிதர்கள் அக்டோபர் 23

 Saint John of Capistrano

கப்பிஸ்ட்றனோ நகர் புனிதர் ஜான் 

ஒப்புரவாளர்:

பிறப்பு: ஜூன் 24, 1386

கப்பிஸ்ட்றனோ, அப்ருஸ்ஸி, நேப்பிள்ஸ் அரசு

இறப்பு: அக்டோபர் 23, 1456 (வயது 70)

இலோக், சிம்ரியா, ஹங்கேரியின் தனிப்பட்ட ஐக்கிய குரோஷியா அரசு

ஏற்கும் சமயம்: 

ரோமன் கத்தோலிக்க திருச்சபை

புனிதர் பட்டம்: கி.பி. 1690 அல்லது 1724 

திருத்தந்தை எட்டாம் அலெக்சாண்டர்

அல்லது (OR)

திருத்தந்தை பதின்மூன்றாம் பெனடிக்ட் 

நினைவுத் திருநாள்: அக்டோபர் 23

பாதுகாவல்:

நீதிபதிகள், பெல்கிரேட் (Belgrade) மற்றும் ஹங்கேரி (Hungary)

கப்பெஸ்ட்றனோ'வின் புனிதர் ஜான், இத்தாலி நாட்டின் தென் பிராந்தியமான “அப்ருஸ்ஸோ”வைச் (Abruzzo) சேர்ந்த “கப்பெஸ்ட்றனோ” (Capestrano) எனும் சிறிய நகரைச் சார்ந்த ஃபிரான்சிஸ்கன் துறவியும், கத்தோலிக்க குருவும் ஆவார். இவர் ஒரு போதகர், இறையியலாளர், மற்றும் புலன் விசாரணையாளராக புகழ் பெற்றவர்.

கி.பி. 1456ம் ஆண்டில், தமது எழுபது வயதின்போது, ஒட்டோமான் பேரரசுக்கு (Ottoman Empire) எதிராக, ஹங்கேரியின் இராணுவ தளபதி “ஜான் ஹுன்யாடி”யுடன் (John Hunyadi) இணைந்து “பெல்கிரேட்” நாட்டை முற்றுகையிட, (siege of Belgrade) சிலுவைப்போர் புரிய சென்ற படைகளுக்கு தலைமை தாங்கிச் சென்றதால், இவருக்கு "சிப்பாய் புனிதர்" (The Soldier Saint) என்ற சிறப்புப் பட்டப் பெயர் வழங்கலாயிற்று.

“அக்குயிலா" (Aquila) என்பவரின் மகனான இவர், “பெருஜியா பல்கலையில்” (University of Perugia) கல்வி பயின்றார். கி.பி. 1412ம் ஆண்டு, இவரது 26ம் வயதிலேயே, “நேப்பிள்ஸ்” மன்னரான (King of Naples) “லாடிஸ்லாஸ்” (Ladislaus) பெருஜியா (Perugia) நகரின் கவர்னராக இவரை நியமனம் செய்தார். 1416ல், 'பெருஜியா' மற்றும் 'மலாடேஸ்டாஸ்' (Perugia & Malatestas) ஆகிய நாடுகளுக்கிடைய போர் வெடித்தது. ஜான் சமாதான தூதுவராக அனுப்பப்பட்டார். ஆனால், 'மலாடேஸ்டாஸ்' அவரைப் பிடித்து சிறையில் எறிந்தது. சிறை வாழ்வின்போது விரக்தியடைந்த ஜான், விடுதலையின் பிறகு, புதிதாய் மணமான தமது மனைவியை ஒதுக்கி வைத்தார். திருமணம் செய்தும் முழுமையான தாம்பத்திய வாழ்க்கை வாழாத இவர், திருமணத்தை ரத்து செய்ய மனைவியின் அனுமதி பெற்று, இல்லற வாழ்வை துறந்தார். 

“சியேன்னாவின் பெர்னார்டினோ” (Bernardino of Siena) என்பவருடன் நண்பரான இவர், அவருடனே இணைந்து இறையியல் கற்றார். கி.பி. 1416ம் ஆண்டு, அக்டோபர் மாதம், நான்காம் தேதி, “ஜேம்ஸ்” (James of the Marches) என்பவருடன் இணைந்து, “பெருஜியா” நகரிலுள்ள “ஃபிரான்சிஸ்கன்” (Order of Friars Minor) இளம் துறவியர் சபையில் சேர்ந்தார். இவர் தமது குருத்துவ அருட்பொழிவு பெற்றபின் தாமாகவே முன்வந்து பல்வேறு மறையுரைகளை ஆற்றினார்.

பெர்னார்டினுடன் இணைந்து ஐரோப்பா முழுவதும் சென்று மறைபரப்புப் பணியை ஆற்றினார். சென்ற இடமெல்லாம் ஆடம்பர திருப்பலி நிறைவேற்றி, மக்களை கவரும் விதத்தில் மறையுரையாற்றி, விசுவாசத்தைப் பரப்பினார்.

கி.பி. பதினைந்தாம் நூற்றாண்டின் பிற இத்தாலிய மறை போதகர்களைப் போலன்றி, ஜான் மறையுரையாற்றுவதில் சிறப்பு பெற்றவராக திகழ்ந்தார். இவரது மறையுரை காரணமாக, “வடக்கு மற்றும் மத்திய ஐரோப்பா” (Northern and central Europe), “தூய ரோமப் பேரரசின் ஜெர்மன் மாநிலங்கள்” (German states of Holy Roman Empire), “போஹெமியா” (Bohemia, “மொராவியா” (Moravia), “ஆஸ்திரியா” (Austria), “ஹங்கேரி” (Hungary), “குரோஷியா” (Croatia) மற்றும் “போலந்து அரசுகளில்” (Kingdom of Poland) இவரது புகழ் பரவியது. இவரது மறையுரையைக் கேட்கக் கூடிய மக்கள் கூட்டம் பேராலயங்களில் கூட அடங்கவில்லை. திறந்தவெளிகளில் மறையுரைகள் ஆற்றினார். இவரது மறையுரையைக் கேட்க சுமார் 126,000 வரை மக்கள் கூட்டம் கூடினர்.

இவர், “கிரேக்க: (Greek) மற்றும் “ஆர்மேனிய” (Armenian ) திருச்சபைகள் மீண்டும் ஒன்று சேர உதவினார்.

கி.பி. 1453ம் ஆண்டு, “துருக்கியர்கள்” (Turks) “கான்ஸ்டண்டினோபில்” (Constantinople) நாட்டை கைப்பற்றியபோது, ஐரோப்பாவை பாதுகாப்பதற்கான ஒரு சிலுவைப்போர் பிரசங்கத்திற்கு ஜான் நியமிக்கப்பட்டார். “பவேரியாவிலும்” (Bavaria) “ஆஸ்திரியாவிலும்” (Austria) சிறிது விடையிறுப்பைப் பெற்ற அவர், “ஹங்கேரியில்” (Hungary) தனது முயற்சிகளை கவனத்தில் கொள்ள முடிவு செய்தார். அவர் “பெல்கிரேடிற்கு” (Belgrade) இராணுவத்தை வழிநடத்தினார். “ஜெனரல் ஜான் ஹுனைடியின்” (General John Hunyadi) தலைமையின் கீழ், அவர்கள் பெரும் வெற்றி பெற்றனர். அத்துடன், “பெல்கிரேடின்” (Belgrade) முற்றுகை அகற்றப்பட்டது. அதீத முயற்சிகளால் களைத்துப்போன “கபிஸ்ட்ரனோ” (Capistrano), போருக்குப் பிறகு ஒரு நோய்த் தொற்றுக்கு எளிதான இரையாக இருந்தது.

தன்னுடைய 40 வயதிற்குள்ளே ஐரோப்பா முழுவதும் பயணம் செய்து மறைபரப்பு பணியாற்றி கிறிஸ்தவ மறையை வளர்த்த ஜான், தமது எழுபது வயதில் மரித்தார்.

Also known as

• Giovanni da Capestrano

• Ivan Kapistran

• Jan Kapistran

• John Capistran

• Jovan Kapistran

• János Kapisztrán

Profile

Son of a German knight, his father died when John was still young. The young man studied law at the University of Perugia, and worked as a lawyer in Naples, Italy. Reforming governor of Perugia under King Landislas of Naples. When war broke out between Perugia and the House of Malatesta from Rimini, Italy in 1416, John tried to broker a peace, but when the opponents ignored the truce, John became a prisoner of war.

During his imprisonment, John came to the decision to change vocations. He had married just before the war, but the marriage was never consummated, and with his bride's permission, it was annulled. He joined the Franciscans at Perugia on 4 October 1416. Fellow student with Saint James of the Marches. Disciple of Saint Bernadine of Siena. Noted preacher while still a deacon, beginning his work in 1420. Itinerant priest throughout Italy, Germany, Bohemia, Austria, Hungary, Poland, and Russia, preaching to tens of thousands. Established communities of Franciscan renewal. John was reported to heal by making the Sign of the Cross over a sick person. Wrote extensively, mainly against the heresies of the day.

After the fall of Constantinople, he preached Crusade against the Muslim Turks. At age 70 he was commissioned by Pope Callistus II to lead it, and marched off at the head of 70,000 Christian soldiers. He won the great battle of Belgrade in the summer of 1456. He died in the field a few months later, but his army delivered Europe from the Muslims.

Born

1386 at Capistrano, Italy

Died

23 October 1456 at Villach, Hungary of natural causes

Canonized

16 October 1690 by Pope Alexander VIII

Blessed Arnold Reche

அருளாளர்_அர்னால்டு_ரெச்சி (1838-1890)

அக்டோபர் 23

இவர் (#Arnold_Reche) பிரான்ஸ் நாட்டில் உள்ள லாண்ட்ரோஃப் என்ற இடத்தில் பிறந்தவர். இவரது குடும்பம் மிகவும் சாதாரண குடும்பம். இவரது தந்தை செருப்புத் தைக்கும் தொழிலைச் செய்து வந்தார்.

குடும்பத்தில் நிலவிய வறுமை காரணமாக இவரால் தொடர்ந்து படிக்க முடியாமல் போனது. இதனால் இவர் தனக்குக் கிடைத்த சிறு சிறு வேலைகளைச் செய்து, குடும்பத்திற்கு உதவியாய் இருந்து வந்தார். 

ஒருபக்கம் இவரது குடும்பத்தில் வறுமை நிலவினாலும், இன்னொரு பக்கம் இவர் தனது பெற்றோரின் எடுத்துக்காட்டான வாழ்வால் தூண்டப்பட்டு இறைப் பற்றில் சிறந்து விளங்கினார். ஆகவே இவர் தனக்கு 28 வயது நடக்கும்போது தெ லசால் சபையில் சேர்ந்து, 1871 ஆம் ஆண்டு தன் இறுதி வார்த்தைப்பாட்டை எடுத்துக் கொண்டார்.

இதன் பிறகு இவர் கல்விப்பணியில் தன்னை முழுமையாக கரைத்துக் கொண்டார். மேலும் பிரான்சிற்கும் ப்ரூசியாவிற்கும் இடையே நடந்த போரில் பாதிக்கப்பட்டவர்கள் நடுவில் மிகச் சிறப்பானதொரு பணியைச் செய்தார். பின்னர் கோர்லான்சி என்ற இடத்தில் இருந்த இல்லத்தின் தலைவராக உயர்ந்து, தன் இறப்பு வரை இவர் அங்கேயே இருந்தார்.

இப்படி இறைப்பணியையும் மக்கள் பணியையும் செய்துவந்த இவர் 1890

ஆம் ஆண்டு இறையடி சேர்ந்தார். இவருக்குத் திருத்தந்தை புனித இரண்டாம் ஜான் பால் அவர்களால் 1987 ஆம் ஆண்டு அருளாளர் பட்டம் கொடுக்கப்பட்டது

Also known as

• Arnold Jules-Nicolas Rèche

• Jules Reche

• Julian-Nicolas Rèche

• Nicholas-Jules Reche

Profile

Son of Claude and Anne Flausset Reche, a poor family in a small village. His father was extremely religious shoemaker, his mother given to fits of depression over their impoverished condition, and Nicholas was one of nine children. He grew up with strong religious values and a fear of sin. Considered the only serious student in his cathechism class, he taught catechism to the younger children. However, when he moved to the Charlesville as a young adult, he began drifting to a more secular life.

He worked as a coachman for a wealthy family, and a mule driver for a contractor building a local church. His aunt, who lived nearby, convinced him to make some changes in his life; Nicholas began to attend classes conducted by the Brothers of the Christian Schools, and returned to a life of active and intense prayer. He joined the LaSalle Brothers in 1862 at age 28, taking the name Brother Arnold, and making his final vows in 1871.

He worked as a medic, treating the wounded in the trenches during the Franco-Prussian War, and was awarded the bronze cross for his work. Taught at the Brothers boarding school at Rheims, France; noted as a mediocre teacher of classroom topics, but an outstanding teacher of Christian doctrine. Novice director for the congregation in 1877, a move that got him out of the class rooms where he felt he was a failure. Director general of the house at Courlancy from March 1890 till his death a few months later.

Born

2 September 1838 at Landroff, Lorraine, France as Nicholas-Jules Reche

Died

• 23 October 1890 following a cerebral hemorrhage

• buried in the public cemetery at Rheims, France

• grave known as a site of miracles

Beatified

1 November 1987 by Pope John Paul II

Blessed Severinus Boethius

Also known as

• Anicius Manlius Torquatus Severinus Boethius

• Last of the Romans

• Severino Boezio

Profile

Descendant of a Roman consular family. His father was chosen as consul in 487, but died soon after, leaving Severinus an orphan. Educated by a pious, aristocratic friend of the family, Quintus Aurelius Memmius Symmachus. Fluent in Greek, he probably studied in Athens, Greece or Alexandria, Egypt. Known for his education and intellect. Married Rusticana, the daughter of his mentor Symmachus. They had of two sons. Severinus served as Roman consul in 510; his sons were chosen as Roman co-consuls themselves in 522. Aide and confidant to King Theodoric. Philosopher. Writer.

Political rivals accused him of disloyalty to the throne, of plotting to restore the Republic, and of the sacrilege of astrology; he was imprisoned without trial. While in jail he reflected on the instability of a state whose government depended on a single man such as a king; these ideas were developed in his best-known work, De Consolatione Philosophiae (Consolations of Philosophy). Soon after, he was executed on order of King Theodoric. A tradition began soon after that he had really been imprisoned and killed for being an orthodox Catholic, and he was soon considered a martyr.

Born

475-480 at Rome, Italy as Anicius Manlius Torquatus Severinus Boethius

Died

• 524-525 at Pavia, Italy

• relics in the cathedral in Pavia

Beatified

1883 by Pope XIII (cultus confirmed)

Saint Allucio of Campugliano

Profile

Son of Omodeo, a rancher. Shepherd in Pescia, Tuscany, Italy. Director of the alms-house in Valdi Nievole, Italy. Built shelters for travellers in mountain passes and river crossings. His work attracted other people who became the core of the future Brothers of Saint Allucio. Known as a miracle worker, and as a peace maker, ending the war between the Italian city states of Ravenna and Faenza.

Born

c.1070 in Campugliano, Italy

Died

• 23 October 1134 in Campugliano, Italy of natural causes

• interred by the Brothers in the church of Saint Luke in Campugliano

• relics enshrined in a stone urn at the high altar of the cathdral of Campugliano in 1344 by Dominican Brother Paul Lapi by order of Bishop Guglielmo Dulcini of Lucca, Italy

• relics moved to the chapel of Our Lady of the Rosary, Cathedral of Pescia, Italy in 1792

• relics moved to the new chapel of Saint Allucio in Campugliano, which soon after changed its name to Sant'Allucio di Uzzano, in 1934

Canonized

23 October 1182 by the bishop of Lucca, Italy

Saint Phaolô Tong Viet Buong

Also known as

• Paul Buòng

• Paul Buòng Viêt Tông

• Phaolô Buòng Viêt Tông

Additional Memorial

24 November as one of the Martyrs of Vietnam

Profile

Lifelong layman in the apostolic vicariate of Cochinchina. Convert to Christianity. Soldier. Captain of the guard for Emperor Ming Mang. Worked with the Society for Foreign Missions. When Ming Mang began a new round of persecutions of Christians, he ordered the apostasy of Christian soldiers; Phaolô refused. He was arrested in 1832, spent a year in prison being tortutred, interrogated for the names of other Christians, and order to renounce the faith; Phaolô refused. He was finally convicted of being a Christian, kicked out of the army and executed. Martyr.

Born

c.1773 in Phu Cam, Phu Xuân (now Hue), Vietnam

Died

beheaded on 23 October 1833 in Tho Ðuc, Saigon, Vietnam

Canonized

19 June 1988 by Pope John Paul II

Blessed Esther Paniagua Alonso

Profile

The daughter of Dolores Alonso and Nicasio Paniagua. Esther joined the Augustinian Missionary Congregation at age 18, making her perpetual vows in August 1970. Trained as a nurse, she was assigned to a hospital in the Bab El Oued neighborhood of Algiers, Algeria where she was especially drawn to handicapped children, and where she came to love the Arab people and culture. Murdered by members of the Armed Islamic Group while walking to Mass. Martyr.

Born

7 June 1949 in Izagre, León, Spain

Died

shot three times in the head on Sunday 23 October 1994 in Bab-el-Oued, Algiers, Algeria

Beatified

8 December 2018 by Pope Francis

Blessed María Caridad Álvarez Martín

Profile

The daughter of Sotera Martín and Constantino Álvarez, María joined the Augustinian Missionary Sisters in 1955, and made her perpetual vows on 3 May 1960. She served in Algeria for more than 30 years, working with the poor and the elderly. Murdered by Muslim fundamentalists in the Armed Islamic Group while walking to Mass. Martyr.

Born

9 May 1933 in Santa Cruz de Salceda, Burgos, Spain

Died

shot in the head and neck on Sunday 23 October 1994 in Bab-el-Oued, Algiers, Algeria

Beatified

8 December 2018 by Pope Francis

Saint Ignatius of Constantinople

Also known as

Ignatios, Nicetas

Profile

Son of the Byzantine emperor Michael I. Imprisoned for political reasons in a monastery in 813 by Leo the Armenian; there he learned about and entered the religious life, taking the name Ignatius. Monk. Priest. Abbot. Patriach of Constantinople in 842. Fought corruption in civil and religious life, even in the highest offices; refused communion to Bardas Caesar due to his acts of incest. Because of his high standards, Ignatius was exiled from 858 to 867, but eventually returned in triumph.

Born

c.799 in Constantinople as Nicetas

Died

• 23 October 877 of natural causes

• relics in the church of Saint Michael, Constantinople

Blessed John Buoni

Also known as

John Bonus

Profile

Spent his youth as a jester in Italian courts with his spare time mis-spent in wild living. After a severe illness in 1208, he reformed completely, converted, and became a hermit at Cesena, Italy. His reputation for piety attacted disciples. To escape them, he left one night and walked continuously and aimlessly till dawn. At sunrise he found himself at the front door of his hermitage; he took this as a sign, and turned his energy to organizing his would-be followers. Pope Innocent IV gave them the Augustinian rule, and they formed the basis of the Augustinian hermit friars.

Born

1168 in Mantua, Italy

Died

1249 in Mantua, Italy of natural causes

Beatified

1483 by Pope Sixtus IV (cultus confirmed)

Blessed Anne-Joseph Leroux

Also known as

• Anna Josepha

• Josephine Leroux

• Marie-Joséphine

• Mary Josephine

Profile

Ursuline nun at Valenciennes, France, taking the name Josephine. When the convents were suppressed in the French Revolution, she fled to Mons in Hainault (in modern Belgium. She returned to Valenciennes in 1793. She and many of her sisters were arrested and executed for the crime of being faithful Christians. Martyr.

Born

23 January 1747 at Cambrai, Nord, France as Ann-Joseph Leroux

Died

guillotined on 23 October 1794 in Valenciennes, Nord, France

Beatified

13 June 1920 by Pope Benedict XV

Saint Gratien of Amiens

Profile

Breton bishop martyred by pagans while on pilgrimage to Rome, Italy.

Died

• c.286 in Saint-Gratien, diocese of Amiens, France

• his walnut pilgrim's staff was stuck into the ground on the site of his execution; it took root and grew there; as late as 1117, that tree, though stripped bare, would burst into leaf and be covered in fruit on the night of his feast

• relics enshrined in the Coulombs monastery, diocese of Chartres, France in the 11th century

• relics hidden in the palace of the archbishop in Paris, France during the anti-Christian persecutions of the French Revolution

• relics somehow lost in 1830

Saints Germanus and Servandus of Cadiz

Profile

Sons of Saint Marcellus of Léon. Soldiers in the imperial Roman army. When they were revealed to be Christians, the brothers were chained, tortured, force marched without food, and finally martyred in the persecutions of Diocletian.

Born

Merida, Spain

Died

• beheaded c.305 on the Hill of Martyrs in San Fernando, Cadiz, Andalusia, Spain

• relics enshrined in Seville, Spain

Blessed Álvaro Ibáñez Lázaro

Also known as

Brother Florencio Martín

Profile

Baptized at the age of one day. Member of the Brothers of the Christian Schools, joining at Cambrils, Spain on 10 November 1927, taking the habit on 14 August 1929, and taking the name Brother Florencio Martín. Began teaching in Barceloneta, Spain in February 1932. A popular teacher noted for his skill in art and singing. Martyred in the Spanish Civil War.

Born

12 June 1913 in Godos, Teruel, Spain

Died

22 October 1936 in Benimaclet, Valencia, Spain

Beatified

11 March 2001 by Pope John Paul II

Blessed Pedro Lorente Vicente

Also known as

Brother Ambrosio León

Profile

Baptized at the age of four days. Member of the Brothers of the Christian Schools, joining on 7 November 1925 at Monreal del Campo, Spain and making his vows on 1 February 1930, taking the name Brother Ambrosio León. Taught in Bonanova, Spain in 1932. Dragged of his school militia during the Spanish Civil War, he was exiled and eventually martyred.

Born

7 January 1914 in Ojos Negros, Teruel, Spain

Died

22 October 1936 in Benimaclet, Valencia, Spain

Beatified

11 March 2001 by Pope John Paul II

Blessed Andrés Zarraquino Herrero

Also known as

Brother Honorato Andrés

Profile

Member of the Brothers of the Christian Schools, joining in Cambrils on 27 July 1924 and taking the habit on 15 August 1925, taking the name Brother Honorato Andrés. Teacher in Tortosa, Gracia, and then the College of Our Lady of Bonanova in Barcelona, Spain. Martyred in the Spanish Civil War.

Born

18 April 1908 in Bañón, Teruel, Spain

Died

22 October 1936 in Benimaclet, Valencia, Spain

Beatified

11 March 2001 by Pope John Paul II

Saint Severinus of Cologne

Also known as

Severin, Severino

Profile

Bishop of Cologne, Germany. Prominent opponent of Arianism.

Legend says that as a priest, Father Severinus heard a voice saying, "Severinus, you will be bishop of Cologne." He asked, "When?" "When your staff flourishes," came the reply. So, he planted his walking stick into the ground. It took root, and on the day it budded he presented himself in Cologne and was chosen bishop.

Born

Bordeaux, France

Died

c.403 in Cologne, Germany of natural causes

Blessed Thomas Thwing

Also known as

Thomas Thweng

Additional Memorial

29 October as one of the Martyrs of Douai

Profile

Studied at Douai, France. Priest, ordained in 1665. Returning to England, he served as chaplain for his cousin, Sir Miles Stapleton, and chaplain to a Yorkshire school. Arrested in 1680, accused of involvement in the Titus Oates Plot. Martyr.

Born

1635 in Heworth, North Yorkshire, England

Died

hanged, drawn and quartered on 23 October 1680 in York, North Yorkshire, England

Beatified

15 December 1929 by Pope Pius XI

Saint Theodoret of Antioch

Also known as

Theodore, Teodoreto, Theodoritus

Profile

Priest in Antioch (in modern Turkey) where he served as the treasurer of the diocese. Effectively eliminated paganism in area of influence. Imprisoned, tortured and martyred in the persecutions of Julian the Apostate for refusing to surrender sacred vessels used in the Mass.

Died

• beheaded in 362 in Antioch, Syria (modern Antakya, Turkey)

• his executioners claimed to have seen angels around him

Saint Romanus of Rouen

Profile

Courtier to King Clothaire II. Bishop of Rouen, France c.629. He worked to convert the remaining pagans in his diocese, and personally tore down a temple to Venus. He ministered to prisoners, especially those on death row, and was known as a miracle worker.

Died

639 of natural causes

Blessed John Angelo Porro

Also known as

Giovannangelo Porro

Profile

Blessed John Angelo Porro was a Servite priest who was born in Milan, Italy, in 1451. He joined the Servites at Monte Senario, where the order was founded in the 13th century. He served as novice master in Florence and returned to his native Milan, where he died on October 24, 1506. His remains are enshrined in the Church of San Carlo al Corso in Milan.

Porro was known for his piety, humility, and love of the poor. He was also a skilled preacher and confessor. He was known for his ability to heal the sick and perform miracles.

After his death, Porro's tomb became a place of pilgrimage. Many miracles were attributed to his intercession. Pope Clement XII confirmed his cult as Blessed in 1737.

Blessed John Angelo Porro is a model of Christian holiness. He shows us that it is possible to live a life of love and service to others, even in the midst of difficult circumstances. He is also a reminder of the power of God's grace to transform our lives.

Feast day: October 23

Born

1451 at Milan, Italy

Died

1504 of natural causes

Beatified

15 July 1737 by Pope Clement XII (cultus confirmed)

Saint Benedict of Sebaste

Also known as

• Benedict of Poitiers

• Benedict of Quincay

Profile

Bishop of Sebaste, Samaria. During the persecutions of Julian the Apostate, Benedict fled to Gaul. Hermit near Poitiers, France where he attracted so many would-be students that the monastery later known as Saint Benedict of Quincay grew up around his hermitage.

Died

c.654

Feast of the Most Holy Redeemer

Article

Celebrated in honor of the graces and benefits of the Redemption. It was instituted at Venice, Italy in 1576 in thanksgiving for the cessation of a plague, and is now found only in the special calendar of some dioceses and religious orders.

Saint Ethelfleda

Also known as

Elfleda, Elflaeda, Ethelflaeda, Ethelfleda

Profile

Saint Ethelfleda was the eldest daughter of Alfred the Great and Ealhswith of Wessex. She was born in 872 AD and died in 918 AD. She is considered to be one of the most important figures in Anglo-Saxon history.

Ethelfleda was married to Ethelred II, the ealdorman of Mercia. After Ethelred's death in 911 AD, Ethelfleda became the ruler of Mercia in her own right. She proved to be a skilled and capable ruler. She expanded the borders of Mercia and built a number of fortifications to protect her kingdom from the Vikings.

Ethelfleda was also a devout Christian. She founded several churches and monasteries. She was also known for her generosity to the poor and the sick.

Ethelfleda died in 918 AD and was buried at Gloucester Cathedral. She was canonized by Pope Innocent IV in 1226.

Saint Ethelfleda is a model of Christian leadership. She was a strong and courageous woman who dedicated her life to serving her people and her faith. She is also a reminder that women can play a vital role in leadership, even in times of war and conflict.

Feast day: October 23

Died

c.970

Saint Oda of Aquitaine

Profile

Saint Oda of Aquitaine was a 9th-century French noblewoman who became a nun and then the abbess of Soissons Abbey. She is known for her piety, her generosity to the poor, and her skill in leading her community.

Oda was born into the royal family of Aquitaine, France. She was the daughter of Duke William I of Aquitaine and Engelberga of Albi. Oda was married at a young age to Robert, Count of Blois. However, her husband died just a few years after their marriage.

After her husband's death, Oda decided to become a nun. She entered Soissons Abbey, where she eventually became the abbess. As abbess, Oda was known for her wise and compassionate leadership. She also worked tirelessly to improve the lives of the poor and the sick.

Oda died in 882 AD and was buried at Soissons Abbey. She was canonized by Pope Leo IX in 1051.

Saint Oda of Aquitaine is a model of Christian leadership and service. She shows us that it is possible to live a holy life, even in the midst of wealth and privilege. She also teaches us the importance of compassion and generosity towards others.

Saint Clether

Also known as

Cleer, Clydog, Scledog, Clitanus, Cleodius

Profile

Known in Wales and Cornwall; several churches are dedicated to him. No details about him have survived.

Died

c.520

Saint Domitius of Amiens

Profile

Eight-century deacon and hermit near Amiens, France. Spiritual teacher of Saint Ulphia of Amiens.

Saint Elfleda

Also known as

Aelflead

Profile

Born an Anglo-Saxon princess and widow, she lived as an anchoress in Glastonbury, England, and was highly revered by Saint Dunstan of Canterbury.

Died

c.936

Saint Arethas of Negran

Profile

Sixth-century governor of the town of Negran in Arabia Felix. Martyred with a large number of Christians in the persecutions of Dunaan.

Died

523

Blessed Henry of Cologne

Profile

Studied at the University of Paris. One of the first Dominicans. First prior at Cologne, Germany. Friend of Blessed Jordan.

Died

1225

Saint Syra of Faremoutiers

Profile

Saint Syra of Faremoutiers (c. 530 - 620 AD) was a Frankish noblewoman who became a nun and then the abbess of Faremoutiers Abbey. She is known for her piety, her leadership of her community, and her contributions to the spread of Christianity in Francia.

Syra was born into a wealthy and powerful Frankish family. Her father was a close advisor to King Childebert I. Syra was educated at the court of Childebert's daughter, Chlodoswintha.

At a young age, Syra decided to become a nun. She entered Faremoutiers Abbey, which had been founded by her mother, Clotilda. Syra eventually became the abbess of Faremoutiers Abbey.

As abbess, Syra led Faremoutiers Abbey to become one of the most important centers of learning and piety in Francia. She also worked tirelessly to spread the Christian faith. Syra founded several new monasteries and supported the work of missionaries.

Syra was also a close advisor to King Chlothair II. She used her influence with the king to promote peace and justice in Francia.

Syra died in 620 AD and was buried at Faremoutiers Abbey. She was canonized by Pope Nicholas I in 860 AD.

Saint Syra of Faremoutiers is a model of Christian leadership and service. She shows us that it is possible to live a holy life, even in the midst of wealth and privilege. She also teaches us the importance of education, piety, and service to others.

Saint Dorotheus of Hadrianopolis

Saint Dorotheus of Hadrianopolis (also known as Saint Dorotheus of Bulgaria) was a 4th-century bishop of Hadrianopolis (now Edirne, Turkey). He was known for his piety, his wisdom, and his writings on spiritual life.

Dorotheus was born in Antioch, Syria, in the early 4th century. He was educated at the famous school of Antioch, where he studied under the renowned theologian Diodorus of Tarsus. After completing his studies, Dorotheus became a monk and then a priest.

In the early 4th century, Dorotheus was elected bishop of Hadrianopolis. He served as bishop for many years and was known for his wise and compassionate leadership. He was also a prolific writer and left behind a number of works on spiritual life, including the Discourses and the Instructions.

Dorotheus's writings are known for their practical advice on how to live a Christian life. He emphasizes the importance of humility, obedience, and love. He also stresses the importance of prayer and the study of Scripture.

Dorotheus died in Hadrianopolis in the late 4th century. He is commemorated in the Eastern Orthodox Church on October 23.

Saint Verus of Salerno

Saint Verus of Salerno (also known as Vero or Verus of Canosa) was a 6th-century Italian bishop and saint. He is believed to have been born in Canosa di Puglia, Italy, and he was educated in Rome. After his studies, he returned to Canosa and was ordained a priest.

In 542, Verus was elected bishop of Salerno. He was a wise and compassionate pastor, and he was loved by his people. He was also a strong defender of the Catholic faith, and he fought against the Arian heresy.

Verus is credited with many miracles, including the healing of the sick and the raising of the dead. He is also said to have exorcised demons and to have calmed storms.

Verus died in 579, and he was buried in the cathedral of Salerno. He was canonized by Pope Gregory the Great in 590. His feast day is celebrated on October 23rd.

Saint Socrates of Nicaea

Profile

There is very little information available about the life of Saint Socrates of Nicaea. He is mentioned in the martyrologies of Eusebius and Jerome, but these sources only provide basic information about his death. It is believed that he was persecuted during the reign of Emperor Maximinus Thrax, and that he was beheaded for his faith.

Saint Socrates of Nicaea is venerated as a martyr by the Catholic Church, the Orthodox Church, and the Oriental Orthodox Church. He is also one of the patron saints of the city of Nicaea.

Died

c.230 in Nicaea

Saint John of Syracuse

Saint John of Syracuse was a Benedictine bishop of Syracuse, Sicily, from 595 until his death in 619. He is venerated as a saint by the Catholic Church,

John was born into a wealthy family in Syracuse, and he received a good education. He was drawn to the religious life, and he entered the Benedictine monastery at Monte Cassino. After several years of monastic life, he was elected bishop of Syracuse.

As bishop, John was known for his holiness of life and his zeal for the Gospel. He was also a strong defender of the Catholic faith against the Arian heresy. He is credited with building many churches and monasteries in Syracuse and the surrounding area.

John is also known for his miracles. He is said to have cured the sick, raised the dead, and calmed storms. He is also said to have prophesied the future.

John died in 619, and he was buried in the cathedral of Syracuse. His tomb became a place of pilgrimage, and many miracles were reported to have happened there.

Saint John of Syracuse is a patron saint of the city of Syracuse, and he is also invoked by sailors and travelers. He is a model of holiness and service to God, and his intercession is sought for many needs.

Died

c.609

Saint Severus of Hadrianopolis

Also known as

Severus of Adrianopolis

Saint Severus of Hadrianopolis (c. 465 - 538) was a Greek Christian monk, theologian, and patriarch of Antioch. He was a leading figure in the Miaphysite movement, which taught that Christ has one unified nature that is both divine and human. Severus was a prolific writer, and his works include homilies, theological treatises, and letters. He was also a skilled translator, and he translated works by Cyril of Alexandria and other Greek theologians into Syriac.

Severus was born in Sozopolis in Pisidia, Asia Minor. He entered a monastery at a young age and received a thorough education in theology and philosophy. In 512, he was elected patriarch of Antioch. As patriarch, Severus was a strong advocate for the Miaphysite position. He attended the Council of Chalcedon in 451, but he refused to sign the Chalcedonian Creed, which he believed denied the full divinity of Christ.

Severus's refusal to sign the Chalcedonian Creed led to his exile from Antioch in 518. He spent the rest of his life in exile, mostly in Egypt. He continued to write and teach, and he became a leading figure in the Miaphysite movement. He died in exile in 538.

Severus is venerated as a saint by the Coptic Orthodox Church, the Ethiopian Orthodox Church, the Syrian Orthodox Church, and the Syro-Malankara Orthodox Church. 

Saint Amo of Toul

Also known as

Amon

Saint Amo (also spelled Amas or Ama) was the second bishop of Toul, France. He succeeded Saint Mansuetus in the 4th century. Very little is known of his life, but he is venerated as a saint by the Catholic Church.

Saint Amo's feast day is celebrated on May 13th. He is often depicted as a bishop wearing a miter and holding a crosier.

In the town of Toul, there is a church dedicated to Saint Amo. It is one of the oldest churches in the town, dating back to the 11th century. The church contains a number of relics of Saint Amo, including his skull and a piece of his cloak.

Saint Amo is invoked as a patron saint of the city of Toul and of the diocese of Toul. He is also invoked as a patron saint of travelers and of those who are sick.

Saint Euerotas of Nicaea

Saint Euerotas of Nicaea was a bishop of Nicaea in the 4th century. He is best known for his participation in the First Council of Nicaea in 325 AD, where he was one of the signers of the Nicene Creed.

Euerotas was born in Nicaea in the early 4th century. He was a learned man and a skilled theologian. He was also a devout Christian and was known for his piety and asceticism.

In 325 AD, Euerotas was one of the bishops who were invited by the Roman Emperor Constantine the Great to attend the First Council of Nicaea. The council was convened to address the Arian controversy, which was a theological dispute over the nature of the relationship between Jesus Christ and God the Father.

At the council, Euerotas was one of the bishops who spoke against the Arian heresy. He defended the orthodox teaching that Jesus Christ is fully God and fully human. He also helped to draft the Nicene Creed, which is the creed that is still used by many Christian churches today.

After the council, Euerotas returned to Nicaea and continued to serve as bishop. He was a popular and respected bishop, and he was known for his pastoral care and his preaching. He died in the late 4th century.

Saint Theodota of Nicaea

Saint Theodota of Nicaea was a Christian martyr who lived during the reign of Emperor Alexander Severus (222-235 AD). She was a rich and beautiful woman, but she chose to dedicate her life to Christ and His Church.

When the governor of Cappadocia learned that Theodota was a Christian, he summoned her and urged her to renounce her faith. Theodota refused, and the governor had her tortured. However, she remained miraculously unharmed.

The governor then sent Theodota to Byzantium, where she was again tortured. But again, she remained unharmed. Finally, the governor ordered that Theodota be taken to Nicea and burned alive.

On the day of her execution, Theodota was led to the stake with her hands bound behind her back. She prayed to God to give her strength, and then she bravely faced her death. As the flames began to rise, Theodota sang a hymn of praise to God.

When the fire finally died down, the people were amazed to see that Theodota's body was unharmed. She had been martyred for her faith, but her body was untouched by the flames.

Martyrs of Valenciennes

Profile

A group of Urusuline and Briggittine nuns murdered together in the anti-Christian excesses of the French Revolution.

The sisters were all deeply committed to their faith and to their vocation as teachers. They knew that they were risking their lives by continuing to teach Catholic doctrine, but they were not willing to compromise their beliefs.

On October 17, 1794, the first six sisters were guillotined. They faced their deaths with courage and dignity, singing hymns and praying for their enemies. On October 23, the remaining five sisters were guillotined.

The Martyrs of Valenciennes were beatified by Pope Benedict XV in 1920. Their feast day is celebrated on October 17.

• Anne-Joseph Leroux

• Clotilde-Joseph Paillot

• Jeanne-Louise Barré

• Marie-Augustine Erraux

• Marie-Liévine Lacroix

• Marie-Marguerite-Joseph Leroux

Died

guillotined on 23 October 1794 in Valenciennes, Nord, France

Beatified

13 June 1920 by Pope Benedict XV

Martyred in the Spanish Civil War

• Agapit Gorgues Manresa

• Anatolio García Nozal

• Andrés Navarro Sierra

• Eduardo Valverde Rodríguez

• Eufrasio de Celis Santos

• Fulgencio Calvo Sánchez

• Honorino Carracedo Ramos

• José María Cuartero Gascón

• Justiniano Cuesta Redondo

• Leonardo Olivera Buera

• Manuel Navarro Martínez

• Tomás Cuartero Gascón

 Bartholomew of Breganze

Bartholomew of Breganze (c. 1200 – 1 July 1271) was an Italian Dominican friar and bishop. He was born in the city of Vicenza to the noble family of Da Breganze (from Breganze). He studied at Padua, receiving there the habit of the recently founded Order from the hands of St. Dominic himself, at about the age of twenty.

Bartholomew was a renowned preacher and theologian. He was also a skilled diplomat and peacemaker. In 1233, he founded the Militia of Jesus Christ for knights. This was a military order dedicated to fighting heresy and defending the Catholic Church. Bartholomew also served as regent of the theological faculty at the papal Curia before becoming bishop of Limassol, Cyprus, in 1252. He was transferred to Vicenza in 1255.

As bishop of Vicenza, Bartholomew worked tirelessly to reform his diocese and to promote peace and unity among the people. He was also a strong advocate for the poor and the oppressed. Bartholomew died in 1271 and was beatified in 1793.

Bartholomew of Breganze is remembered as a holy and dedicated bishop, a gifted preacher, and a skilled diplomat. He is also known for his commitment to peace, justice, and the poor.

Bertrand of Grandselve

Bertrand of Grandselve (c. 1080 - 1149) was a Cistercian abbot and mystic. He was born in France to a noble family, and entered the Benedictine monastery of Grandselve in 1114. In 1128, he was elected abbot, and under his leadership, Grandselve became one of the most flourishing monasteries in the south of France.

In 1144, Bertrand affiliated Grandselve with the Cistercian Order, and in 1145, he met with Saint Bernard of Clairvaux, to whom he submitted his abbey. Bertrand was a close friend and disciple of Bernard, and he played an important role in the spread of the Cistercian Order in southern France.

Bertrand was also a renowned preacher and writer. He wrote several sermons and treatises on spiritual life, which were widely read and admired in his time. He was particularly interested in the mystical aspects of the Christian faith, and his writings are full of insights into the nature of prayer, contemplation, and the union of the soul with God.

Bertrand died in 1149, and he was buried in the abbey church of Grandselve. He was beatified by Pope Leo XIII in 1889