St. Marguerite d'Youville
Feastday: October 16
Patron: of widows, difficult marriages, death of young children
Birth: October 15, 1701
Death: December 23, 1771
Beatified: 1959 by Pope John XXIII
Canonized: December 9, 1990, Vatican Basilica, by Pope John Paul II
Foundress of the Sisters of Charity, the Grey Nuns of Canada. St. Marguerite D'Youville was born at Varennes, Quebec, on October 15, Marie Marguerite Dufrost de La Jemmerais. She studied under the Ursulines, married Francois D'Youville in 1722, and became a widow in 1730. She worked to support herself and her three children, devoted much of her time to the Confraternity of the Holy Family in charitable activities.
In 1737, with three companions, she founded the Grey Nuns when they took their initial vows; a formal declaration took place in 1745. Two years later she was appointed Directress of the General Hospital in Montreal, which was taken over by the Grey Nuns, and had the rule of the Grey Nuns, with Marguerite as Superior, confirmed by Bishop of Pontbriand of Quebec in 1755.
She died in Montreal on December 23, and since her death, the Grey Nuns have established schools, hospitals, and orphanages throughout Canada, the United States, Africa, and South America, and are especially known for their work among the Eskimos. She was beatified by Pope John XXIII in 1959 and canonized in 1990 by Pope John Paul II.
Marguerite d'Youville, SGM (French pronunciation: [maʁɡʁit djuvil]; October 15, 1701 – December 23, 1771) was a French Canadian Catholic widow who founded the Order of Sisters of Charity of Montreal, commonly known as the Grey Nuns. She was canonized by Pope John Paul II in 1990, becoming the first native-born Canadian to be declared a saint.
Early life and marriage
She was born Marie-Marguerite Dufrost de Lajemmerais in 1701 at Varennes, Quebec, oldest daughter of Christophe du Frost, Sieur de la Gesmerays (1661–1708) and Marie-Renée Gaultier de Varennes. (According to Quebec naming conventions, she would have always been known as Marguerite, not Marie.) Her father died when she was a young girl. Despite her family's poverty, at age 11 she was able to attend the Ursuline convent in Quebec City for two years before returning home to teach her younger brothers and sisters.[1] Marguerite's impending marriage to a scion of Varennes society was foiled by her mother's marriage below her class to Timothy Sullivan, an Irish doctor who was seen by the townspeople as a disreputable foreigner.[2] On August 12, 1722, at Notre-Dame Basilica in Montreal, she married François d'Youville, a bootlegger who sold liquor illegally to Indigenous Peoples in exchange for furs and who frequently left home for long periods for parts unknown. Despite this, the couple eventually had six children before François died in 1730. By age 30 she had suffered the loss of her father, husband and four of her six children, who died in infancy. Marguerite experienced a religious renewal during her marriage. "In all these sufferings Marguerite grew in her belief of God's presence in her life and His tender love for every human person. She, in turn, wanted to make known His compassionate love to all. She undertook many charitable works with complete trust in God, whom she loved as a Father."[1]
Marguerite d'Youville Sanctuary in Varennes
Marguerite and three other women founded in 1737 a religious association to provide a home for the poor in Montreal. At first, the home only housed four or five members, but it grew as the women raised funds. As their actions went against the social conventions of the day, d'Youville and her colleagues were mocked by their friends and relatives and even by the poor they helped. Some called them "les grises", which can mean "the grey women" but which also means "the drunken women",[3] in reference to d'Youville's late husband's career as a bootlegger. By 1744 the association had become a Catholic religious order with a rule and a formal community. In 1747 they were granted a charter to operate the General Hospital of Montreal, which by that time was in ruins and heavily in debt. d'Youville and her fellow workers brought the hospital back into financial security,[4] but the hospital was destroyed by fire in 1765.[1] The order rebuilt the hospital soon after. By this time, the order was commonly known as the "Grey Nuns of Montreal" after the nickname given to the nuns in ridicule years earlier. Years later, as the order expanded to other cities, the order became known simply as the "Grey Nuns".
Slave owner
d'Youville has been described as "one of Montreal's more prominent slaveholders".[5][6] d'Youville and the Grey Nuns used enslaved laborers in their hospital and purchased and sold both Indian slaves and British prisoners, including an English slave which she purchased from the Indians. The vast majority of the 'slaves' in the hospital were English soldiers and would be better described as prisoners of war. As described in 'The Captors' Narrative: Catholic Women and Their Puritan Men on the Early American Frontier': "These 21 men were not captive freeholders, resentful of their captors' religion and longing to reestablish themselves at home. They were for the most part young soldiers, many of them conscripts, simply wishing to survive their captivity. However strange they may have found the community that held them and the woman who supervised them, they were probably relieved to find themselves in a situation that offered a strong possibility of survival. They knew their fellow soldiers to be dying in nearby prisons -- places notorious for their exposure to the heat and cold and unchecked pestilence. As hard as they must have worked at Pointe-Saint-Charles, the men could easily have regarded their captivity at least as a partial blessing."[7]
Legacy
Marguerite d'Youville died in 1771 at the General Hospital. In 1959, she was beatified by Pope John XXIII, who called her "Mother of Universal Charity", and was canonized in 1990 by Pope John Paul II. She is the first native-born Canadian to be elevated to sainthood by the Roman Catholic Church. Her feast day is October 16. In 1961, a shrine was built in her birthplace of Varennes. Today, it is the site of a permanent exhibit about the life and works of Marguerite.[8] The review process included a medically inexplicable cure of acute myeloid leukemia after relapse. The woman is the only known long-term survivor in the world, having lived more than 40 years from a condition that typically kills people in 18 months.[9]
A large number of Roman Catholic churches, schools, women's shelters, charity shops, and other institutions in Canada and worldwide are named after St. Marguerite d'Youville. Most notably, the renowned academic institution of higher learning, D'Youville College in Buffalo, NY, is named after her.[10] The D'Youville Academy at Plattsburgh, New York was founded in 1860.[11]
Sir Louis-Amable Jetté’s wife, Lady Jetté, wrote a biography of Marie-Marguerite d'Youville.[12]
Final resting place
In 2010, Mother Marie-Marguerite d'Youville's remains were removed from Grey Nuns Motherhouse and relocated to her birthplace of Varennes.[13]
Recognition
On September 21, 1978, Canada Post issued 'Marguerite d'Youville' based on a design by Antoine Dumas. The 14¢ stamps are perforated 13.5 and were printed by Canadian Bank Note Company, Limited
St. Bercharius
Feastday: October 16
Birth: 636
Death: 696
Benedictine abbot and founder, martyred at Moutier-en-Der, France. He was a native of Aquitaine who became a monk at Luxeuil and was ordained. Bercharius became the first abbot at Hautvilliers, founded by St. Nivard. He also founded the monastery at Moutier-en-Der and a convent at Puellemontier. Bercharius was stabbed by Dagnin, a deranged monk whom he had disciplined, and died two days later on March 26.
St. Colman of Kilroot
Feastday: October 16
Death: 6th century
Saint Colman of Kilroot (also Colman mac Cathbaid) was a 6th-century Irish saint who was an abbot and bishop of Kilroot (County Antrim), a minor see which was afterwards incorporated in the Diocese of Connor. He may have given his name to Kilmackevat (County Antrim).
Colman was a disciple of Saint Ailbe of Emly. At Ailbe's direction, Colman founded a church on the northern shore of Lough Laoigh. According to Bishop Healy, Colman of Kilroot was the uncle of Colman of Dromore. Colman's feast has been kept on 16 October.
St. Kiara
Feastday: October 16
Death: 680
Irish virgin, a disciple of St. Fintan Munnu Kiara, who is also listed as Chier, lived near Nenagh, in Tipperary, Ireland.
Saint Ciera of Ireland (alternately Chera, Chier, Ciara, Cyra, Keira, Keara, Kiara, Kiera, Ceara, Cier, Ciar) was an abbess in the 7th century who died in 679. Her history is probably commingled with another Cera (alternately Ciar, Ciara) who lived in the 6th century. However, some authors maintain that monastic mistakes account for references to Cera in the 6th century or that a single Cera had an exceptionally long life span.[1][2]
Life
There are two stories connected with the saint(s). In the first story, Cera's prayers saved an Irish town from a foul-smelling fire. When a noxious blaze broke out in "Muscraig, in Momonia," St. Brendan instructed the inhabitants to seek Cera's prayers. They followed his instructions, Cera prayed in response to their supplications, and the fire disappeared.[1][3] Since St. Brendan died in 577, this story likely refers to an earlier Cera. "Muscraig, in Momonia" may refer to Muskerry, an area outside of Cork. "Momonia" refers to southern Ireland in at least one ancient map.[4]
The other story relates how St. Cera established a nunnery called Teych-Telle around the year 625. Cera was the daughter of Duibhre (or Dubreus) reportedly in the bloodline of the kings of Connor (or Conaire). She, along with 5 other virgins asked Saint Fintan Munnu for a place to serve God. He and his monks gave the women their abbey in Heli (or Hele). Heli may have been in County Westmeath. He blessed Cera, and instructed her to name the place after St. Telle who had given birth to four children, Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John in the plain of Miodhluachra that day.[2][5][6]
St. Cera eventually returned to her own province and founded another monastery, Killchree, which she governed until her death in 679.[3] The later Franciscan Kilcrea Friary stands about a mile west of where her monastery stood, and claims to have taken its name, Kilcrea, in her honor: "Kilcrea (Cill Chre) means the Cell of Cere, Ciara, Cera or Cyra
St. Margaret Mary Alacoque
புனித மார்கரெட் மரி அலக்கோக்
திருவிழா : அக்டோபர் 16, 17 October 16 (October 17 by the Order of the Visitation of Holy Mary and universally prior to 1969; transferred to Oct 20 in Canada)
பிறப்பு : 22 ஜூலை, 1647, லாட்டகொர், பர்கன்டி,பிரான்சு
இறப்பு : 17அக்டோபர், 1690(அகவை 43) பரே-லீ-மொனியல், பர்கன்டி, பிரான்சு
அருளாளர் பட்டம் : 18 செப்டம்பர் 1864,ரோம் (திருத்தந்தை 9ம் பயஸ்)
புனிதர் பட்டம் : 13 மே 1920,ரோம் (திருத்தந்தை 15ம் பெனடிக்ட்)
பாதுகாவல் : போலியோ பாதித்தோர், திருஇதய பக்தர்கள், பெற்றோரை இழந்தோர்
புனித மார்கரெட் மரி அலக்கோக் (Saint Margaret Mary Alacoque) அல்லது புனித மார்கரெட் மரியா (22 ஜூலை 1647 – 17 அக்டோபர் 1690), பிரான்சு நாட்டைச் சார்ந்த கத்தோலிக்க திருச்சபையின் அருட்சகோதரி (கன்னியர்) மற்றும் மறைபொருளாளர் ஆவார். இயேசுவின் திருஇதய பக்திக்கு தற்போதைய வடிவம் கொடுத்தவர் இவரே.
தொடக்க காலம்
மார்கரெட் மரியா, 1647ஆம் ஆண்டு ஜூலை 22ந்தேதி பிரான்ஸ் நாட்டின் பர்கன்டியில் உள்ள லாட்டகொர் என்ற இடத்தில் பிறந்தார். இவரது பெற்றோர்கள் புண்ணிய வாழ்வில் சிறந்து விளங்கியவர்கள். மார்கரெட் சிறு வயது முதலே, திவ்விய நற்கருணையில் இருக்கும் ஆண்டவர் இயேசுவின்மீது அதிக பக்தி கொண்டிருந்தார்; இயேசுவோடு அமைதியில் பேசுவது இவரது வழக்கமாக இருந்தது. இவர் முடக்கு வாதத்தால் பாதிக்கப்பட்டபோது, மரியன்னையின் உதவியால் குணமடைந்தார். இதற்கு நன்றியாகத் துறவற சபை ஒன்றில் சேர்ந்து கன்னியராக விரும்பினார்.
இயேசுவின் காட்சிகள்
1671 மே 25ந்தேதி, மார்கரெட் தனது 24ஆம் வயதில் பரே நகரிலுள்ள விசிட்டேசன் (மினவுதல் அல்லது சந்திப்பு) துறவற சபையில் இணைந்தார். அதே ஆண்டு ஆகஸ்ட் 25ந்தேதி தனது துறவற உடைகளைப் பெற்றுக்கொண்டார். 1672ஆம் ஆண்டு, இவர் கன்னியருக்கான இறுதி வாக்குறுதிகளை உச்சரித்தார்.
அந்த துறவற மடத்தில் மார்கரெட் திவ்விய நற்கருணை முன்பாக அதிக நேரம் செலவிட்டார். இயேசு கிறிஸ்துவின் பல காட்சிகளை காணும் பேறு மார்கரெட் மரியாவுக்கு கிடைத்தது. பலமுறை இயேசுவின் வேதனையுற்ற உருவத்தை இவர் காட்சியாக கண்டுள்ளார்.
1673 டிசம்பர் 27ந்தேதி, இயேசு கிறிஸ்து அன்புத் தீ பற்றி எரியும் இதயத்துடன் முதல்முறை மார்கரெட்டுக்கு காட்சி அளித்து, தனது திரு இதயத்தின் பக்தியைப் பரப்பும் திருத்தூதராக இவரைத் தேர்ந்து கொண்டார். அதன் பிறகு பதினெட்டு மாதங்கள் வரை, இயேசு இவருக்கு பலமுறை காட்சி அளித்தார். இயேசு இறப்பதற்கு முந்திய நாள் கெத்சமனித் தோட்டத்தில் அனுபவித்த மரண வேதனையை நினைவுகூரும் வகையில், ஒவ்வொரு வியாழனும் இரவில் திருமணி ஆராதனை மேற்கொள்ளுமாறு இயேசு இவரிடம் கூறினார்.
மார்கரெட் இயேசுவின் திரு இதய பக்தியைப் பரப்ப ஆர்வமுடன் உழைத்தார். மாதத்தின் முதல் வியாழக்கிழமை இரவு 11மணி முதல் 12மணி வரை நற்கருணை ஆராதனை செய்தல், முதல் வெள்ளிக்கிழமை திருப்பலியில் பங்கேற்று திவ்விய நற்கருணை உட்கொள்தல் போன்ற பக்தி முயற்சிகளையும் இயேசு இவர் வழியாகக் கற்றுக்கொடுத்தார். இயேசுவின் திருவுடல், திருஇரத்தப் பெருவிழாவைத் தொடர்ந்து வரும் வெள்ளிக்கிழமை அன்று இயேசுவின் திருஇதயப் பெருவிழா கொண்டாடப்பட வேண்டுமென்றும் மார்கரெட் மூலம் இயேசு கிறிஸ்து அறிவுறுத்தினார்.
தொடக்கத்தில் மார்கரெட் கண்ட காட்சிகளை நம்ப பலரும் மறுத்தனர். அவ்வேளையில் இவரது சபையின் ஒப்புரவாளராக இருந்த புனித கிளாட் தெ லா கொலம்பியர், இவரது காட்சிகளின் உண்மைத்தன்மையை முதன்முதலில் ஏற்று அறிக்கையிட்டார். அதன்பின், இவரது சபையைச் சார்ந்த மற்ற அருட்சகோதரிகள் அக்காட்சிகளை ஏற்றுக்கொண்டனர். 1686ஆம் ஆண்டு, அந்த துறவற மடத்தில் தனிப்பட்டவிதத்தில் முதல்முறையாக இயேசுவின் திருஇதயத்திற்கு விழா கொண்டாடப்பட்டது, இரண்டு ஆண்டுகளுக்கு பிறகு இயேசுவின் திருஇதயத்தின் பெயரால் அங்கு ஒரு சிற்றாலயமும் எழுப்பப்பட்டது.
புனிதர் பட்டம்
புனித மார்கரெட் மரியாவின் மெழுகு உருவம் இவ்வுலகில் இயேசு கிறிஸ்துவைப் பலமுறைக் காணப் பேறுபெற்ற மார்கரெட் மரியா, அவரை நிரந்தரமாகக் காண 1690 அக்டோபர் 17ந்தேதி விண்ணகம் சென்றார். திருஇதய பத்தி பற்றி மார்கரெட் எழுதிய குறிப்புகள், 1698ல் ஜெ. க்ரோய்செட் என்பவரால் இயேசுவின் திருஇதய பக்தி (La Devotion au Sacré-Coeur de Jesus) என்ற பெயரில் புத்தகமாக வெளியிடப்பட்டன.1824ல் திருத்தந்தை 12ம் லியோ இவரை வணக்கத்திற்குரியவர் என்று அறிவித்தார்.
மார்கரெட் இறந்து 140 ஆண்டுகள் கழித்து 1830ல் இவரது கல்லறைத் தோண்டப்பட்ட வேளையில், அழியாத நிலையில் இருந்த மார்கரெட் மரியாவின் உடல் வெளியே எடுக்கப்பட்டது. அப்போது இரண்டு அதிசயங்களும் நடைபெற்றன. 1864ல் திருத்தந்தை 9ம் பயஸ் இவருக்கு அருளாளர் பட்டம்வழங்கினார்.
1920ஆம் ஆண்டு திருத்தந்தை 15ம் பெனடிக்ட் இவருக்கு புனிதர் பட்டம் வழங்கினார். 1929ல் மார்கரெட் இறந்த அக்டோபர் 17ந்தேதியில் இவரது நினைவைக் கொண்டாடும் வகையில் இவரது விழா யில் இணைக்கப்பட்டது.1969ல் இவரது விழா அக்டோபர் 16ந்தேதிக்கு மாற்றப்பட்டது.
1928ல் திருத்தந்தை 11ம் பயஸ் இரக்கமுள்ள மீட்பர் (Miserentissimus Redemptor) என்ற தனது சுற்றுமடலில் மார்கரெட் மரியா கண்ட காட்சிகளை உறுதிசெய்யும் விதத்தில், இயேசு தன்னை மார்கரெட் மரிக்கு வெளிப்படுத்தி, அவரது இதயத்துக்கு மரியாதை செலுத்துவோருக்கு விண்ணக அருள்வரங்களை வழங்குவதாக வாக்குறுதி அளித்திருக்கிறார்" என்று குறிப்பிட்டுள்ளார்.
Feastday: October 16
Patron: of those suffering with polio, devotees of the Sacred Heart, loss of parents
Birth: July 22, 1647
Death: October 17, 1690
Beatified: September 18, 1864, Rome by Pope Pius IX
Canonized: May 13, 1920, Vatican City, by Pope Benedict XV
St. Margaret Mary Alacoque, a French Roman Catholic Visitation nun and mystic, is greatly recognized for her devotion to the Sacred Heart of Jesus.
She was born in 1647 in France as the only daughter of Claude and Philiberte Lamyn Alacoque. Margaret has always shown an intense love for the Blessed Sacrament and preferred silence over typical childhood play. She began practicing severe corporal mortification after her first communion at 9-years-old.
She continued this until rheumatic fever confined her to her bed for four years. After making a vow to the Blessed Virgin Mary to consecrate herself to religious life, Margaret instantly returned to perfect health. In recognition of this favor, Margaret added the name Mary to her baptismal name.
St. Margaret Mary Alacoque experienced visions of Jesus Christ for most of her life, but thought they were a normal part of life and continued to practice austerity.
After the death of her father, Margaret and her family were forced into poverty when a relative refused to hand over the family's assets. Margaret's only comfort in life was her frequent visits to pray before the Blessed Sacrament at a local church.
At 17-years-old, Margaret's family was able to regain control of their assets. Margaret's mother started encouraging her to become more social, in hopes she would find a suitable husband.
One night, after attending a ball in an evening dress, Margaret had a vision of Christ, scourged and bloody. He accused Margaret of forgetting about him. He showed her that His heart was full of love for her because of the promise she made to His Blessed Mother as a child. After this vision, Margaret was determined to fulfill the vow she made years ago. She entered the Visitation Convent at Paray-le-Monial in May 1671 to become a nun.
St. Margaret Mary was admitted to wearing the religious habit in August 1671 but was not officially admitted to profession until November 1672. Although she was described as humble, simple, kind and patient, Margaret had to prove the authenticity of her vocation.
During her time in this monastery, Margaret received several private revelations of the Sacred Heart of Jesus. These visions showed her the "form of the devotion, the chief features being reception of Holy Communion on the first Friday of each month, Eucharistic adoration during a 'Holy hour' on Thursdays, and the celebration of the Feast of the Sacred Heart." The Lord Jesus requested His love be made evident through her.
In her vision, she was instructed to spend an hour every Thursday night meditating on Jesus' Agony in the Garden of Gethsemane, a practice, known as "The Holy Hour," that later became widespread.
In December 1673, Jesus appeared to Margaret Mary again, and allowed her to rest her head on His heart. His human heart was to be the symbol of His divine-human love. He revealed to her the wonders of His love. He explained to her that he wished to make these wonders known to all the world, and that He chose her for His work.
Margaret Mary convinced her superior, Mother de Saumaise, her visions were authentic. However, she struggled with convincing others of the validity of her apparitions, even those in her own community. A group of theologians declared her visions delusions and suggested she eat better. Even parents of children she instructed began calling her an imposter.
Margaret eventually gained the support from the community's confessor, St. Claude de la Colombiere, who declared her visions were genuine. Finally, all opposition from the community, regarding Margaret's visions, ended in 1683, when Margaret Mary became the assistant to the Superior.
St. Margaret Mary, who later became known as Novice Mistress, led the monastery in observing the Feast of the Sacred Heart privately, and inspired the construction of a chapel built to honor the Sacred Heart.
Margaret Mary died a couple of years later, at the age of 43, on October 17, 1690, while being anointed. She spoke the words, "I need nothing but God, and to lose myself in the heart of Jesus."
After her death, the devotion to the Sacred Heart was adopted by the Jesuits but remained controversial within the Church. The practice did not become officially recognized until 75 years later.
St. Margaret Mary Alacoque was the topic of discussion long after hear death. People talked about her mission and qualities, her revelations and spiritual maxims and her teachings on the Sacred Heart. On September 18, 1864, Margaret Mary was beatified by Pope Pius IX. When her tomb was opened a few years later, two immediate cures took place and her body laid incorrupt.
St. Margaret Mary Alacoque was officially canonized on May 13, 1920 by Pope Benedict XV and, in 1928, Pope Pius XI upheld the Church's position regarding the credibility behind her visions of Jesus Christ. He stated Jesus "manifested Himself" to Margaret and the chief features of devotion to the Sacred Heart are "reception of Holy Communion on the first Friday of each month, Eucharistic adoration during a 'Holy hour' on Thursdays, and the celebration of the Feast of the Sacred Heart."
St. Margaret Mary Alacoque is the patron saint of devotees of the Sacred Heart, and those suffering with polio and from the loss of parents. Her feast day is celebrated on October 16. St. Margaret Mary Alacoque, a French Roman Catholic Visitation nun and mystic, is greatly recognized for her devotion to the Sacred Heart of Jesus.
She was born in 1647 in France as the only daughter of Claude and Philiberte Lamyn Alacoque. Margaret has always shown an intense love for the Blessed Sacrament and preferred silence over typical childhood play. She began practicing severe corporal mortification after her first communion at 9-years-old.
She continued this until rheumatic fever confined her to her bed for four years. After making a vow to the Blessed Virgin Mary to consecrate herself to religious life, Margaret instantly returned to perfect health. In recognition of this favor, Margaret added the name Mary to her baptismal name.
St. Margaret Mary Alacoque experienced visions of Jesus Christ for most of her life, but thought they were a normal part of life and continued to practice austerity.
After the death of her father, Margaret and her family were forced into poverty when a relative refused to hand over the family's assets. Margaret's only comfort in life was her frequent visits to pray before the Blessed Sacrament at a local church.
At 17-years-old, Margaret's family was able to regain control of their assets. Margaret's mother started encouraging her to become more social, in hopes she would find a suitable husband.
One night, after attending a ball in an evening dress, Margaret had a vision of Christ, scourged and bloody. He accused Margaret of forgetting about him. He showed her that His heart was full of love for her because of the promise she made to His Blessed Mother as a child. After this vision, Margaret was determined to fulfill the vow she made years ago. She entered the Visitation Convent at Paray-le-Monial in May 1671 to become a nun.
St. Margaret Mary was admitted to wearing the religious habit in August 1671 but was not officially admitted to profession until November 1672. Although she was described as humble, simple, kind and patient, Margaret had to prove the authenticity of her vocation.
During her time in this monastery, Margaret received several private revelations of the Sacred Heart of Jesus. These visions showed her the "form of the devotion, the chief features being reception of Holy Communion on the first Friday of each month, Eucharistic adoration during a 'Holy hour' on Thursdays, and the celebration of the Feast of the Sacred Heart." The Lord Jesus requested His love be made evident through her.
In her vision, she was instructed to spend an hour every Thursday night meditating on Jesus' Agony in the Garden of Gethsemane, a practice, known as "The Holy Hour," that later became widespread.
In December 1673, Jesus appeared to Margaret Mary again, and allowed her to rest her head on His heart. His human heart was to be the symbol of His divine-human love. He revealed to her the wonders of His love. He explained to her that he wished to make these wonders known to all the world, and that He chose her for His work.
Margaret Mary convinced her superior, Mother de Saumaise, her visions were authentic. However, she struggled with convincing others of the validity of her apparitions, even those in her own community. A group of theologians declared her visions delusions and suggested she eat better. Even parents of children she instructed began calling her an imposter.
Margaret eventually gained the support from the community's confessor, St. Claude de la Colombiere, who declared her visions were genuine. Finally, all opposition from the community, regarding Margaret's visions, ended in 1683, when Margaret Mary became the assistant to the Superior.
St. Margaret Mary, who later became known as Novice Mistress, led the monastery in observing the Feast of the Sacred Heart privately, and inspired the construction of a chapel built to honor the Sacred Heart.
Margaret Mary died a couple of years later, at the age of 43, on October 17, 1690, while being anointed. She spoke the words, "I need nothing but God, and to lose myself in the heart of Jesus."
After her death, the devotion to the Sacred Heart was adopted by the Jesuits but remained controversial within the Church. The practice did not become officially recognized until 75 years later.
St. Margaret Mary Alacoque was the topic of discussion long after hear death. People talked about her mission and qualities, her revelations and spiritual maxims and her teachings on the Sacred Heart. On September 18, 1864, Margaret Mary was beatified by Pope Pius IX. When her tomb was opened a few years later, two immediate cures took place and her body laid incorrupt.
St. Margaret Mary Alacoque was officially canonized on May 13, 1920 by Pope Benedict XV and, in 1928, Pope Pius XI upheld the Church's position regarding the credibility behind her visions of Jesus Christ. He stated Jesus "manifested Himself" to Margaret and the chief features of devotion to the Sacred Heart are "reception of Holy Communion on the first Friday of each month, Eucharistic adoration during a 'Holy hour' on Thursdays, and the celebration of the Feast of the Sacred Heart."
St. Margaret Mary Alacoque is the patron saint of devotees of the Sacred Heart, and those suffering with polio and from the loss of parents. Her feast day is celebrated on October 16.
Margaret Mary Alacoque, VHM (French: Marguerite-Marie Alacoque) (22 July 1647 – 17 October 1690), was a French Catholic Visitation nun and mystic who promoted devotion to the Sacred Heart of Jesus in its modern form
Saint Hedwig of Andechs
சிலேசியா புனிதர் ஹெட்விக்
கைம்பெண், துறவி:
பிறப்பு: கி.பி. 1174
அந்தேக்ஸ், பவேரியா, தூய ரோமப் பேரரசு
இறப்பு: அக்டோபர் 15, 1243 (வயது 68–69)
ட்ர்செப்னிகா துறவுமடம், சிலேசியா, போலந்து
ஏற்கும் சமயம்:
ரோமன் கத்தோலிக்க திருச்சபை
புனிதர் பட்டம்: மார்ச் 26, 1267
திருத்தந்தை நான்காம் கிளமெண்ட்
முக்கிய திருத்தலங்கள்:
அன்டேக்ஸ் துறவு மடம், மற்றும் தூய ஹெட்விக்’கின் ஆலயம், பெர்லின்
பாதுகாவல்:
அன்டேக்ஸ் துறவு மடம் (Andechs Abbey), பிராண்டன்பேர்க் (Brandenburg), பெர்லின் (Berlin), போலந்து (Poland), சிலேசியா (Silesia), க்ராகோவ் (Kraków), வ்ரோக்ளா (Wrocław), ட்ருஸ்பினிகா (Trzebnica), “கோர்லிட்ஸ்” ரோமன் கத்தோலிக்க மறைமாவட்டம் (Görlitz, the Roman Catholic Diocese), அனாதைகள் (Orphans)
நினைவுத் திருநாள்: அக்டோபர் 16
புனிதர் “சிலேசியாவின் ஹெட்விக்” (Saint Hedwig of Silesia) என்றும், “அன்டேக்ஸின் ஹெட்விக்” (Saint Hedwig of Andechs) என்றும் அழைக்கப்படும் இவர், ஒரு “சிலேசிய சீமாட்டி, அல்லது பிரபுவின் மனைவியும்,” (Duchess of Silesia), “போலந்தின் சீமாட்டியும்” (Duchess of Poland) ஆவார்.
ஹெட்விக், “அன்டேக்ஸ்” நாட்டின் பிரபுவான “நான்காம் பெர்தோல்ட்” (Berthold IV of Andechs), மற்றும் அவரது இரண்டாம் மனைவியான “அக்னேஸ்” (Agnes of Wettin) ஆகியோருக்குப் பிறந்தவர் ஆவார்.
தமது பன்னிரண்டு வயதிலேயே சிலேசியா நாட்டை சேர்ந்த “முதலாம் ஹென்றி” (Henry I the Bearded) என்பவரை திருமணம் செய்து வாழ்ந்த இவர், ஏழு குழந்தைகளுக்கு தாயானார். இவர் தனது குடும்பத்தில் மகிழ்ச்சியாக வாழ்ந்தார். ஹென்றி டிரேப்னிட்ஸ் (Trebnitz) என்ற ஊரில் சிஸ்டர்சியன் (Cistersien) துறவற மடத்திற்கென்று, துறவற இல்லம் ஒன்றை கட்டினார். அம்மடத்தில் துறவற இல்லத்திற்கான, மருத்துவமனை ஒன்றையும் கட்டினார்.
கி.பி. 1238ம் ஆண்டு, ஹென்றி இறந்து போனார். இதனால் அதே ஆண்டு, தமது சகோதரியாகிய “கேட்ரூட்” (Gertrude) தலைமை தாங்கி நடத்திவந்த துறவற மடத்தில், சத்தியப் பிரமாணம் ஏற்காத, துறவற சீருடையணிந்த, பொதுநிலை அருட்சகோதரியாக (Lay Sister) சேர்ந்த ஹெட்விக், செபதவ வாழ்வில் ஈடுபட்டார். அப்போது தன் பிள்ளைகளிடையே பிரச்சினைகள் எழுந்தது. இவரின் ஒரே பிள்ளையான “இரண்டாம் ஹென்றி” (Henry II the Pious) மங்கோலியர்களால் கொல்லப்பட்டார். ஹெட்விக் தன் பிள்ளைகளுக்காக இடைவிடாமல் செபித்து செபத்தினாலேயே மங்கோலியர்களை வென்றார்.
ஹெட்விக் எப்போதுமே ஏழைகளுக்கும் கைம்பெண்களுக்கும் அனாதைகளுக்கும் உதவி வந்திருக்கின்றார். நோயுற்றோர்க்காகவும் தொழு நோயாளிகளுக்காகவும் பல்வேறு மருத்துவமனைகளை நிறுவினார். தனக்கு சொந்தமான நிலங்களை திருச்சபைக்கு வழங்கினார். தனது கணவர் உதவியுடன் ஏழைகளுக்கு ஏராளமான் உதவிகளை செய்தார். இவர் குளிர்காலத்தில் கூட பனிகட்டிகள் கொட்டியபோதும், காலணிகள் அணியாமலே பனியில் நடந்து சென்று செபம் செய்து, மறைப்பணியாற்றி ஏழைகளுக்கு உதவியுள்ளார். கி.பி. 1243ம் ஆண்டு, அக்டோபர் மாதம், 15ம் தேதி மரித்த இவரது உடல், இவரது கணவரின் உடல் அடக்கம் செய்யப்பட்ட அதே “ட்ரேஸ்பெனிகா” (Trzebnica Abbey) துறவு மடத்தில் அடக்கம் செய்யப்பட்டது. இவரது உடலின் மிச்சங்கள் (Relic) ஜெர்மனியின் தலைநகர் பெர்லினில் உள்ள “தூய ஹெட்விக்” (St. Hedwig's Cathedral in Berlin) பேராலயத்தில் வைக்கப்பட்டுள்ளன.
Also known as
• Hedwig of Silesia
• Hedwig von Andechs
• Jadwiga Slaska
• Hedvigis, Hedwiges, Avoice
Profile
Daughter of Berthold IV, Duke of Merania. Aunt of Saint Elizabeth of Hungary. Married Prince Henry I the Bearded of Silesia and Poland in 1186 at age 12. Mother of seven, including Saint Gertrude of Trebnitz. Cared for the sick both personally and by founding hospitals. Widow. Upon her husband's death, she gave away her fortune and entered the monastery at Trebnitz where her daughter was abbess.
Born
1174 in Castle Andechs, Bavaria (part of modern Germany)
Died
• 15 October 1243 at at Trzebnica, Silesia (part of modern Poland)
• relics preserved at Adechs Abbey
Canonized
26 March 1267 by Pope Clement IV
Saint Gerard Majella
புனித_ஜெரால்டு_மெஜல்லா (1725-1755)
அக்டோபர் 16
இவர் (#St_Gerald_Mejalla) இத்தாலியில் உள்ள மூரோ (Muro) என்ற ஊரைச் சார்ந்தவர்.
இவரது குடும்பம் மிகவும் வறிய குடும்பம். இவரது தந்தை தையல்தொழில் செய்துக் குடும்பத்தைக் கரையேற்றி வந்தார். இவருக்குப் பன்னிரண்டு வயது நடக்கும்போது இவரது தந்தை இறந்து போனார். இதனால் இவர் பெருந்துயர் அடைந்தார்.
இவருக்குத் துறவியாகப் போக வேண்டும் என்ற எண்ணம் இருந்தது. அதனால் இவர் கப்புச்சின் சபைக்குச் சென்றார். அங்கிருந்தவர்கள் இவருடைய உடல்நிலையைக் காரணம் காட்டி, இவரைத் தங்களது சபையில் சேர்த்துக்கொள்ள அனுமதி மறுத்துவிட்டனர். இதன் பிறகு இவர் இரட்சகர் சபைக்குச் சென்றன்ர். அச்சபையில் இருந்தவர்கள் இவரை ஒரு சகோதரராக ஏற்றுக்கொண்டார்கள்.
துறவு மடத்தில் இவருக்குக் கொடுக்கப்பட்ட தோட்ட வேலை, நோயாளர்களைக் கவனித்துக் கொள்ளுதல், கோயில் பணியாளர்... போன்ற சிறு சிறு வேலைகளைக் கூட இவர் மனமுவந்து செய்தார். அதே நேரத்தில் இவர் வல்ல செயல்களைச் செய்பவராகவும் இருந்தார்.
ஒருமுறை பெண்மணி ஒருவர், தன்னுடைய வயிற்றில் வளரும் கருவிற்கு இவர்தான் காரணம் என்று இவர்மீது அபாண்டமாகப் பழிசுமத்தினார். அதற்கு இவர் எதுவும் சொல்லாமல் அமைதியாக இருந்தார். கடைசியில்தான் உண்மை தெரிய வந்து, இவர் குற்றமற்றவர் என்று நிரூபிக்கப்பட்டார்.
இன்னொரு முறை இவர் தனது நண்பருடைய வீட்டிற்கு விருந்துக்குச் சென்றிருந்தார். விருந்து முடிந்து வெளியே வந்துபொழுது, தன்னுடைய கைக்குட்டையை நண்பருடைய வீட்டிலேயே மறந்து வைத்துவிட்டு வந்துவிட்டார். அதை இவரது நண்பரின் மனைவி எடுத்துக்கொண்டு வந்து இவரிடம் கொடுத்த பொழுது, "இதை நீங்களே வைத்துக் கொள்ளுங்கள், உங்களுக்குத் தேவைப்படும்" என்று சொல்லிவிட்டு இவர் வந்து விட்டார்.
இது நடந்து ஓரிரு மாதங்கள் கழித்து இவரது நண்பரின் மனைவி பேறுகால வலியில் துடித்த போது, அவர் இவர் கொடுத்துவிட்டுச் சென்ற கைக்குட்டையை நினைத்துப் பார்த்து, அதைத் தன் வைத்து வேண்டியபொழுது, அவருக்கு நல்ல முறையில் குழந்தை பிறந்தது.இதனாலேயே இவர் தாய்மார்களுக்கும், கர்ப்பிணிப் பெண்களுக்கும் பாதுகாவலராக இருக்கிறார்.
நாள்கள் மெல்ல நகர்கையில் இவரது உடல்நலம் குன்றியது.இதனால் இவர் 1755 ஆம் ஆண்டு இறையடி சேர்ந்தார். இவருக்கு 1904 ஆம் ஆண்டு திருத்தந்தை பத்தாம் பயஸால் புனிதர் பட்டம் கொடுக்கப்பட்டது.
Profile
Son of a tailor who died when the boy was 12, leaving the family in poverty. Gerard tried to join the Capuchins, but his health prevented it He was accepted as a Redemptorist lay brother serving his congregation as sacristan, gardener, porter, infirmarian, and tailor. Miracle worker.
When falsely accused by a pregnant woman of being the father of her child, he retreated to silence; she later recanted and cleared him, and thus began his association as patron of all aspects of pregnancy. Reputed to bilocate and read consciences. His last will consisted of the following small note on the door of his cell: "Here the will of God is done, as God wills, and as long as God wills."
Born
23 April 1725 at Muro, Italy
Died
• 16 October 1755 at Caposele, Provincia di Avellino, Campania, Italy of tuberculosis
• interred in the Basilica di San Gerardo Maiella in Materdomini Caposele, Provincia di Avellino, Campania, Italy
Canonized
11 December 1904 by Pope Saint Pius X
Saint Longinus the Centurian
Also known as
Longino
Additional Memorials
• 15 October (Extraordinary Form)
• 22 October (Armenian Apostolic Church)
Profile
Saint Longinus the Centurion is a Christian saint who is venerated in the Roman Catholic Church, Eastern Orthodox Church, and several other Christian communions. He is best known as the Roman soldier who pierced the side of Jesus Christ with a lance at the Crucifixion.
Longinus is not mentioned by name in the canonical Gospels, but he is first mentioned in the apocryphal Gospel of Nicodemus, which dates back to the 4th century. According to this gospel, Longinus was blind in one eye, and when blood and water flowed from the wound in Jesus' side, some of it splashed into his eye and healed him. This miracle led Longinus to believe in Jesus as the Son of God.
After the Crucifixion, Longinus is said to have converted to Christianity and become a missionary. He is eventually martyred for his faith, and his feast day is celebrated on October 16th.
Saint Longinus is often depicted in art as a soldier with a spear. He is also a popular saint among those who suffer from eye problems.
In addition to his role in the Crucifixion, Saint Longinus is also known for his legend of the Holy Lance. This lance is said to be the same one that Longinus used to pierce Jesus' side. The Holy Lance has been venerated by Christians for centuries, and it is believed to have miraculous powers.
Born
Cappadocia
Died
• martyred in Cappadocia in the 1st century
• relics in the church of Saint Augustine, Rome, Italy
Saint Gall
Also known as
Callo, Chelleh, Gaaech, Gallen, Gallo, Gallonus, Gallunus, Gallus, Gilianus
Profile
Younger brother of Saint Deicola. Studied at Bangor Abbey under Saint Comgall of Bangor and Saint Columba. Bible scholar. Priest. One of the twelve who accompanied Saint Columbanus to France and helped found Luxeuil Abbey. He followed Columbanus into exile in 610 and then to Austrasia, where he preached with little success around Lake Zurich, and near Bregenz.
Illness forced Gall to leave Columbanus's party in 612, though some say the leader suspected Gall of malingering, and imposed a penance on him, which Gall faithfully observed, of not celebrating Mass during Columba's life. When he recovered, Gall lived as a hermit on the Steinach River, attracting disciples. Saint Gall Monastery occupied this site, becoming a center of literature, the arts, and music, though legend to the contrary, Saint Gall did not found it. Worked there with Saint Magnus of Füssen. Legend also says that one night during this period Gall ordered a bear to bring fire wood for his group of hermits - and it did.
Exorcist. Twice refused bishoprics offered by King Sigebert, whose betrothed he had freed of demons which fled from her in the form of blackbirds. Reportedly was the offered the abbacy of Luxeuil on the death of Saint Eustace but declined, and remained a hermit.
Born
Irish
Died
c.630 at Bregenz, Switzerland
Saint Bertrand of Comminges
Profile
Son of a military officer. His family exepected a military life for Bertrand, but he was drawn to religion, joined the canons of Toulouse, and became an archdeacon. Bishop of Comminges, France c.1075, a position he served for nearly 50 years; this area is part of the modern diocese of Toulouse. Reformed the clergy, enforced their discipline, and placed the cathedral canons under Augustinian Rule. Worked in the Synod of Poitiers in 1100; this synod excommunicated King Philip I, and were stoned by the public for their trouble. Helped preside at the consecration of the cemetery of Saint Mary at Auch during which some embittered monks from Saint Orens tried to burn down the church.
Once during a sermon at Val d'Azun, Bertrand was particularly forceful in taking the faithful to task for their sins. A near riot broke out, which Bertrand calmed before serious problems occurred. To make up for the disturbance, the local leaders agreed to provide free butter to Comminges every year during the week after Pentecost, a custom that continued until stopped by the French Revolution nearly 700 years later.
Born
11th century France
Died
1123 of natural causes
Canonized
1309 by Pope Alexander III
Blessed Józef Jankowski
Also known as
prisoner 16895
Additional Memorial
12 June as one of the 108 Martyrs of World War II
Profile
Second of eight children of Robert and Michalina Jankowski. Joined the Pallottines in 1929, making his final vows on 5 August 1931. Ordained on 2 August 1936 in the archdiocese of Gniezno, Poland. Particularly involved in ministry to children and young people, working as a chaplain and catechist in schools in the area of Oltarzew, Poland. Seminary treasurer and director of novices on 31 March 1941. Had a devotion to Saint Teresa of Avila who inspired his interior spiritual life. Tortured and martyred in the Nazi persecutions.
Born
17 November 1910 in Czyczkowy, Kujawsko-Pomorskie, Poland
Died
beaten to death by a guard on 16 October 1941 in the prison camp at Oswiecim (Auschwitz), Malopolskie, occupied Poland
Beatified
13 June 1999 by Pope John Paul II in Warsaw, Poland
Blessed Augustine Thevarparampil
Also known as
• Kunjachan
• Good Shepherd of the Dalits
Profile
Priest in the eparchy of Palai, India, ordained on 17 December 1921. Worked the the "untouchable" caste in India, bringing them to the faith, and giving them some basic education to improve their lot in this world.
Born
1 April 1891 in Ramapuram, Kerala, India
Died
16 October 1973 in Ramapuram, Kerala, India of natural causes
Beatified
• 30 April 2006 by Pope Benedict XVI
• recognition celebrated at Ramapuram, Palai, India
Blessed Anicet Koplinski
Also known as
Adalbert Koplinski
Additional Memorial
12 June as one of the 108 Polish Martyrs of World War II
Profile
Blessed Anicet Koplinski (1875-1941) was a Polish Capuchin friar and priest who was martyred by the Nazis during World War II. He was born Wojciech Koplin to a Polish-German family in Debrzyno, Poland. He joined the Capuchins at the age of 22 and was ordained a priest in 1900.
Koplinski was known for his devotion to the poor and his willingness to help those in need. He was also a skilled confessor and spiritual director. After the German invasion of Poland in 1939, Koplinski continued to minister to his flock, even as the Nazis began to persecute the Catholic Church.
In 1941, Koplinski was arrested by the Gestapo and deported to the Auschwitz concentration camp. He was gassed to death on October 16, 1941.
Koplinski was beatified by Pope John Paul II in 1999, along with 108 other martyrs of World War II. He is a powerful example of Christian heroism and sacrifice.
Born
30 July 1875 at Debrzyno, Pomorskie, Poland
Died
16 October 1941 in the gas chambers of the Auschwitz concentration camp in occupied Poland
Beatified
13 June 1999 by Pope John Paul II at Warsaw, Poland
Saint Lull
Also known as
Lul, Lullon, Lullus, Lulo
Profile
Related to Saint Boniface. Monk at Malmesbury Abbey in England. Missionary to Germany with Boniface who ordained him a priest with a mission of training new priests. Bishop of Mainz, Germany. After the death of Boniface, Lull took charge of the missionary work. Founded several monasteries in the region.
Died
787
Saint Mummolinus of Noyon
Also known as
Momelin, Mommolenus, Mommolinus, Mummolin
Profile
Monk at Luxeuil Abbey in France. Abbot at the monastery at Saint Omer. Abbot of Sithin. Friend of Saint Bertin the Great. Bishop of Noyon-Tournai, Belgium.
Born
at Constance, Scotland
Died
c.686 of natural causes
Saint Eliphius of Toul
Also known as
Eloff, Elophe, Éliphe
Profile
Saint Eliphius of Toul (also known as Eloff, Élophe, Éliphe, or Alophe) is a Christian martyr who is venerated in the Roman Catholic Church. Tradition holds that he was the child of a king of Scotia (which can refer to Ireland or Scotland), and that he preached in Toul, France, where he converted 400 people to Christianity. He was accompanied by his siblings: St. Eucharius, and three sisters, Menna, Libaria, and Susanna.
There is some debate about the exact details of Saint Eliphius' life and martyrdom. Some sources say that he was beheaded at or near Toul, at the order of the Roman emperor Julian the Apostate, in the 4th century. Others say that he was martyred under a different emperor, or at a different time.
Regardless of the exact details of his death, Saint Eliphius is remembered as a courageous and faithful witness to the Christian faith. He is a patron saint of the city of Toul, and his feast day is celebrated on October 16th.
In 964, Saint Eliphius' relics were translated to Cologne, Germany, where they are still enshrined today. He is a popular saint in both France and Germany, and he is often depicted in art as a deacon holding a palm branch, a symbol of martyrdom.
Born
in Ireland
Died
• beheaded in 362 in Toul, France
• relics translated to Cologne, Germany in the 10th century
Saint Ambrose of Cahors
Also known as
Ambroise, Ambrosius
Profile
Bishop of Cahors, France during a turbulent period; he was forced to flee his diocese several times to escape enemies. He retired from his see to live as a hermit near Bourges, France. In his old age he made a pilgimage to Rome, Italy.
Died
c.752 at Saint-Ambroise-sur-Arnon, Berry, France
Saint Balderic of Montfaucon
Also known as
Baldric, Baudry, Balderik, Balderich, Beaufroi
Profile
Born a prince, the son of King Sigebert I of Austrasia, an area in the east of modern France; brother of Saint Bova, and uncle of Saint Doda of Rheims. Founded the monastery of Montfaucon in Switzerland and a convent for his sister in Rheims, France.
Died
c.640 of natural causes
Saint Anastasius of Tombolenia
Profile
Monk on the island of Tombolenia of the coast of Brittany, France. Monk at the monastery of Cluny. Hermit in the region of the Pyrenees in western France.
Born
Venice, Italy
Died
c.1085 near Pamiers, Gaul (in modern France) of natural causes
Blessed Jesús Villaverde Andrés
Profile
Dominican priest. Martyred in the Spanish Civil War.
Born
4 December 1877 in San Miguel de Dueñas, León, Spain
Died
16 October 1936 in Madrid, Spain
Beatified
28 October 2007 by Pope Benedict XVI
Blessed Gerald of Fossanuova
Profile
Blessed Gerald of Fossanuova (c. 1125-1200) was a Cistercian abbot and monk who is venerated in the Roman Catholic Church. He was born in Lombardy, Italy, and entered the Benedictine Fossanova Abbey as a young man. After the monastery joined the Cistercian Order, Gerald became its first abbot. He served as abbot for two terms, from 1158 to 1170 and again from 1177 to 1200.
Gerald was known for his strict adherence to the Cistercian rule and his deep devotion to the Eucharist. He was also a gifted writer and preacher. He wrote several treatises on spirituality and theology, including a commentary on the Song of Songs.
Blessed Gerald was also a close friend of Saint Bernard of Clairvaux. Saint Bernard wrote to Gerald on several occasions, seeking his advice and counsel. In one letter, Saint Bernard wrote to Gerald:
"I know that you are a man of great wisdom and holiness, and I am grateful for your friendship. I seek your advice on many matters, both spiritual and temporal. I know that I can always count on you to give me a wise and honest answer."
Blessed Gerald died in 1200 at the age of 75. He is buried at Fossanova Abbey. He was beatified by Pope John Paul II in 1999.
Born
at Lombardy, Italy
Died
killed by an unruly brother monk in 1177 at Igny Abbey, Arcis-le-Ponsart, Marne, France
Saint Dulcidius of Agen
Also known as
Dulcet, Dulcidio, Doucis
Profile
Bishop of Agen, France. Fought the Arian heresy, brought to his diocese by invading Vandals and Visigoths. Miracle worker.
Died
c.450 in Agen, Aquitaine (in modern France)
Saint Florentinus of Trier
Also known as
• Florentinus of Treve
• Florentius...
Profile
Saint Florentinus of Trier was the fourth bishop of Trier, Germany, succeeding Saint Severinus. He is believed to have lived in the 4th century, but very little is known about his life. The only reference to him is in the "Liber Pontificalis Romanus," a collection of biographies of the popes and bishops of Rome and other important sees.
The "Liber Pontificalis Romanus" states that Florentinus was sent to Trier by Pope Sylvester I to replace Severinus, who had died. Florentinus is said to have been a wise and holy man, and he is credited with strengthening the Christian faith in Trier.
Florentinus' feast day is celebrated on October 16th. He is often depicted in art as a bishop holding a crosier, a staff that is a symbol of his authority as a bishop.
Saint Silvanus of Ahun
Also known as
Salvan, Sauvan, Silvain, Souvain, Sylvanus
Profile
Saint Silvanus of Ahun was a 5th-century bishop who was martyred by the Vandals in 407. He is venerated as a saint in the Roman Catholic Church.
Silvanus was born in Ahun, France, and was ordained a priest. He was later appointed bishop of Ahun. During his time as bishop, he was known for his preaching and his work to help the poor and the sick.
In 407, the Vandals invaded Gaul. Silvanus was captured by the Vandals and brought before their leader, Genseric. Genseric demanded that Silvanus renounce Christianity, but Silvanus refused. He was then tortured and killed.
Silvanus's feast day is celebrated on October 16th. He is often depicted in art as a bishop holding a palm branch, a symbol of martyrdom.
Representation
deacon in a dalmatic holding a book and palm
Saint Amandus of Limoges
Also known as
• Amandus of Haute-Vienne
• Amand, Amatius, Amantius
Profile
Saint Amandus of Limoges (c. 584-679) was a Frankish bishop and missionary who is venerated as a saint in the Roman Catholic Church. He was born in Aquitaine, France, to a noble family. At a young age, he entered the monastery of Saint Yrieix-la-Perche, where he was educated and trained for the priesthood.
In 612, Amandus was ordained a priest and was sent by Bishop Chlodoald of Limoges to evangelize the pagan population of the region. Amandus was a successful missionary, and he converted many pagans to Christianity. He also founded several monasteries and churches.
In 629, Amandus was appointed bishop of Limoges. He served as bishop for over 50 years, and during that time he worked tirelessly to strengthen the Christian faith in his diocese. He also built many churches and schools, and he helped to establish a number of religious orders.
Amandus was also a strong advocate for social justice. He worked to protect the poor and the oppressed, and he spoke out against injustice and corruption. He was also a staunch defender of the Catholic faith, and he opposed all forms of heresy.
Amandus died in 679 at the age of 95. He is buried in the Cathedral of Limoges. He was canonized by Pope John XV in 995.
Died
5th century of natural causes
Saint Baldwin
Also known as
Balduin, Balduinus, Baudoin, Baudouin, Boudewijn
Profile
Son of Saint Sadalberga and Saint Blandinus of Laon. Brother of Saint Anstrude of Laon. Archdeacon of Laon in the time of Dagobert I, King of France. Martyred by Ebroin.
Died
c.680
Saint Conogan of Quimper
Also known as
Albinus, Conogon, Gwen
Profile
Saint Conogan of Quimper (c. 5th century) was a bishop of Quimper in Brittany, France. He is venerated as a saint in the Roman Catholic Church.
Conogan was born in Ireland and studied at the monastery of Landevennec in Brittany. He was ordained a priest and then became a monk at Landevennec. After the death of Saint Corentin, the first bishop of Quimper, Conogan was elected to succeed him.
As bishop of Quimper, Conogan was known for his holiness, his preaching, and his work to help the poor and the sick. He is also credited with founding several monasteries and churches in his diocese.
Conogan died in the late 5th century and was buried in the Cathedral of Quimper. He is venerated as the patron saint of Quimper and of the diocese of Quimper and Léon.
Died
460
Saint Vitalis of Noirmoutier
Also known as
Vial
Profile
Saint Vitalis of Noirmoutier (c. 525 – 587) was a Frankish monk and abbot who is venerated as a saint in the Roman Catholic Church. He was born in the region of Auvergne, France, and was ordained a priest. He later became a monk at the monastery of Saint-Maurice d'Agaune in Switzerland.
In 558, Vitalis was sent by the abbot of Saint-Maurice to found a monastery on the island of Noirmoutier off the coast of France. Vitalis became the first abbot of the monastery, which he named for himself.
Vitalis was a wise and holy man, and he was a great leader of the monastery. He was also a gifted preacher, and he traveled widely to preach the Gospel.
Vitalis died in 587 at the age of 62. He is buried in the monastery of Noirmoutier. He was canonized by Pope Urban VIII in 1625.
Saint Magnobodus of Angers
Also known as
Mainboeuf, Maimbod
Profile
Saint Magnobodus of Angers (c. 490 – c. 585) was a bishop of Angers in France. He is venerated as a saint in the Roman Catholic Church.
Magnobodus was born in a wealthy family in Angers. He received a good education and was ordained a priest at a young age. He was known for his piety and his learning, and he was soon appointed bishop of Angers.
As bishop, Magnobodus was a zealous pastor and a strong defender of the Catholic faith. He built churches and monasteries, and he worked to evangelize the pagans in his diocese. He was also a compassionate and generous man, and he was always willing to help the poor and the needy.
Magnobodus is credited with performing many miracles during his lifetime. He is said to have healed the sick, raised the dead, and cast out demons. He is also said to have protected the city of Angers from a number of disasters, including a flood and a fire.
Magnobodus died in 585 and was buried in the Cathedral of Angers. He was canonized by Pope Leo IX in 1049.
Saint Martinian of Mauretania
Profile
Saint Martinian of Mauretania (c. 400 - c. 450) was a Christian martyr who was tortured and killed by the Vandals during their invasion of North Africa. He is venerated as a saint in the Roman Catholic Church and the Eastern Orthodox Church.
Martinian was born in the Roman province of Mauretania, which is now northern Algeria. He was a wealthy and well-educated man, and he served as a governor under the Roman Empire.
When the Vandals invaded North Africa in 429, Martinian refused to renounce his Christian faith. He was arrested and tortured, but he refused to give up his beliefs. He was eventually beheaded in 450.
Martinian is remembered as a courageous and faithful martyr. He is a reminder of the importance of standing up for our beliefs, even in the face of persecution.
Died
dragged to death by horses in 458
St. Maxima
Feastday: October 16
Martinian, his brother Saturian and their two brothers were slaves in Africa at the time of Arian King Jenseric's persecution of Catholics. They were converted to Christianity by another slave, Maxima. When their master insisted that Martinian marry Maxima, who had taken a vow of virginity, they fled to a monastery but were brought back and beaten for their attempt to escape. When their master died, his widow gave them to a Vandal, who freed Maxima (she later entered a monastery) and sold the men to a Berber chief. They converted many, petitioned the Pope to send them a priest, and were then tortured and dragged to their deaths by horses for their Faith. Their feast day is October 16.
Saint Saturian of Mauretania
Profile
Saint Saturian of Mauretania was a Christian martyr who was tortured and killed by the Vandals during their invasion of North Africa in the early 5th century. He is venerated as a saint in the Roman Catholic Church and the Eastern Orthodox Church.
Saturian was born in the Roman province of Mauretania, which is now northern Algeria. He was a priest and a preacher, and he was known for his zeal and his eloquence.
When the Vandals invaded Mauretania in 429, Saturian was arrested and tortured. He was refused food and water, and he was beaten and whipped. But he refused to renounce his faith.
Eventually, Saturian was beheaded. He is remembered as a courageous and faithful martyr. He is a reminder of the importance of standing up for our beliefs, even in the face of persecution.
Died
dragged to death by horses in 458
Saint Bolonia
Also known as
Boulogne
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Nun. Martyred at age 15 in the persecutions of Julian the Apostate. Then village of Saint Boulogne in Maine, France is named for her.
Died
362
Saint Gaudericus of Mirepoix
Also known as
Gauderico
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Saint Gaudericus of Mirepoix (c. 770 - c. 850) was a French monk and hermit who is venerated as a saint in the Roman Catholic Church. He is known for his piety, his humility, and his love for the poor and the needy.
Gaudericus was born into a wealthy family in Mirepoix, France. He received a good education and was destined for a promising career. But he was drawn to the religious life, and he eventually decided to become a monk.
Gaudericus entered the Benedictine abbey of Saint-Michel de Cuxa in the Pyrenees mountains. He quickly became a respected member of the community, and he was known for his holiness and his dedication to prayer.
After some time, Gaudericus felt called to a more solitary life. He left the abbey and became a hermit. He lived in a small cave on a hill near Mirepoix, where he devoted himself to prayer and contemplation.
Gaudericus lived a simple and austere life. He ate only wild plants and berries, and he slept on the hard ground. But he was always cheerful and welcoming to visitors. He was known for his wisdom and his compassion, and he was often sought out for counsel and advice.
Gaudericus died peacefully in his cave in about 850. He was buried in the abbey of Saint-Michel de Cuxa. His tomb became a popular pilgrimage site, and he was soon venerated as a saint.
Saint Eremberta of Wierre
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Saint Eremberta of Wierre was a seventh-century Benedictine abbess. She was the niece of Saint Wulmar, who founded Wierre Monastery in France for her. Eremberta was known for her piety and humility, and she was a wise and compassionate leader of her community. She died around the year 740 and is venerated as a saint by the Catholic Church.
Feast day: October 16
Details of her life
Saint Eremberta of Wierre was born into a noble family in France. She was the niece of Saint Wulmar, a wealthy and powerful nobleman who was also a devout Christian. Wulmar was so impressed by his niece's piety and intelligence that he decided to found a monastery for her. The monastery was built in the town of Wierre-aux-Bois, and Eremberta became its first abbess.
Eremberta was a wise and compassionate leader of her community. She was known for her humility and her dedication to prayer. She was also a skilled teacher and administrator. Under her leadership, the monastery at Wierre-aux-Bois became a center of learning and spirituality.
Eremberta died around the year 740. She is buried in the monastery at Wierre-aux-Bois, and her tomb is still a popular pilgrimage site.
Miracles attributed to Saint Eremberta
Several miracles are attributed to Saint Eremberta, both during her lifetime and after her death. One legend tells that she once healed a group of sick children by praying over them. Another legend tells that she once saved a group of nuns from a fire by leading them to safety.
After her death, Eremberta is said to have appeared to several people in visions. In one vision, she is said to have appeared to a nun who was struggling with doubts about her faith. Eremberta encouraged the nun to persevere in her faith, and the nun was able to overcome her doubts.
Veneration of Saint Eremberta
Saint Eremberta is venerated as a saint by the Catholic Church. Her feast day is celebrated on October 16. She is the patron saint of the town of Wierre-aux-Bois, France.
Saint Bonita of Brioude
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Saint Bonita of Brioude (c. 900 - c. 960) was a French nun who is venerated as a saint in the Roman Catholic Church. She is known for her piety, her charity, and her miracles.
Bonita was born into a wealthy family in Brioude, France. She received a good education and was raised in the Christian faith. She was always known for her kindness and her generosity to the poor and the needy.
When Bonita reached adulthood, she decided to become a nun. She entered the Benedictine abbey of Saint-Julien in Brioude, where she lived a life of prayer and contemplation.
Bonita was a model of Christian virtue. She was humble, obedient, and charitable. She was also known for her gift of miracles. She is said to have healed the sick, raised the dead, and cast out demons.
Bonita died peacefully in the abbey of Saint-Julien in about 960. She was buried in the abbey church, and her tomb became a popular pilgrimage site. She was soon venerated as a saint.
Saint Bonita is a model of Christian charity and compassion. She is a reminder that we are all called to serve God and others, especially those who are most in need. She is also a reminder that God works miracles through His saints.
Saint Vidal of Retz
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Saint Vidal of Retz was an 8th-century hermit who lived in the region of Retz, near Nantes, in Brittany, France. He is venerated as a saint by the Catholic Church, and his feast day is celebrated on October 11.
Vidal was born into a noble family, but he chose to renounce his worldly possessions and live a simple life of prayer and penance. He built a hermitage in the forest of Retz, where he spent his days in meditation and contemplation. He was known for his great holiness and wisdom, and many people came to him for guidance and counsel.
One day, a group of bandits attacked Vidal's hermitage. Vidal defended himself with a cross, and the bandits were miraculously driven away. This event further enhanced Vidal's reputation as a holy man, and he became known as a protector against evil.
Vidal died peacefully in his hermitage in the early 8th century. He was buried in the nearby town of Missillac, where his tomb became a popular pilgrimage site. Many miracles were reported to have occurred at his tomb, and he was venerated as a saint by the people of Brittany.
In the 17th century, the relics of Saint Vidal were transferred to the cathedral of Nantes, where they are still enshrined today. He is a popular saint in Brittany, and his feast day is celebrated with great devotion.
Saint Vidal is often depicted in art holding a cross, as a symbol of his victory over the bandits. He is also sometimes depicted as a hermit, with a long beard and wearing a simple robe.
Saint Vidal of Retz is commemorated on two feast days: October 11 and October 16. This is not uncommon for saints who are particularly popular in certain regions or countries
Saint Junian
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The Saint Junian celebrated on October 16 is Junian of Saint-Junien. He was a 5th-century Christian hermit who lived in the Limousin region of France. He is credited with performing many miracles during his lifetime, including healing the sick, raising the dead, and casting out demons. He is also said to have protected the city of Saint-Junien from a number of disasters, including a flood and a fire.
Junian died in 552 and was buried in the church of Saint-Amand. He was canonized by Pope Gregory VII in 1073.
Martyrs in Africa
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A group of 220 Christians martyrs about whom we know nothing but that they died for their faith.
Martyrs of North Africa
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A group of 365 Christians who were martyred together in the persecutions of the Vandal king Genseric. The only details that have survived are the names of two of the martyrs - Nereus and Saturninus.
Died
450 in North Africa
Purity of the Blessed Virgin Mary
The purity of the Blessed Virgin Mary is a central tenet of Catholic Marian doctrine. It is believed that Mary was conceived without sin (the Immaculate Conception) and that she remained a virgin throughout her life, even when she gave birth to Jesus Christ (perpetual virginity).
Mary's purity is often symbolized by the lily, a flower known for its beauty and whiteness. It is also associated with the color white, which represents purity and innocence.
The Feast Day of the Purity of the Blessed Virgin Mary is celebrated on October 16. It is a feast day that commemorates the purity of Mary, both in her conception and in her perpetual virginity.
The feast day is celebrated in some places, such as in the United States, but it is not a universal feast day in the Catholic Church. It is, however, a feast day that is celebrated by many religious orders and Marian groups.
Evodius of Uzala
Evodius of Uzala (c. 350-420 AD) was a North African Christian bishop and theologian. He was a close friend of Saint Augustine of Hippo, and the two men corresponded frequently on theological matters. Evodius is also known for his book De Fide contra Manichaeos (On the Faith Against the Manichaeans), which is a refutation of Manichaeism, a dualistic religious movement that was popular in North Africa at the time.
Evodius was born in Thagaste, North Africa, around the year 350 AD. He was a pagan in his youth, but he converted to Christianity under the influence of Augustine. Evodius was baptized in 387 AD, and he was ordained a priest in 391 AD.
In 396 AD, Evodius was consecrated as the bishop of Uzala, a small town in North Africa. He served as bishop of Uzala for the rest of his life. As bishop, Evodius was a staunch defender of orthodoxy against heresy. He was particularly opposed to Manichaeism, and he wrote his book De Fide contra Manichaeos in order to refute the Manichaean teachings.
Evodius died around the year 420 AD. He is venerated as a saint by the Catholic Church, the Eastern Orthodox Church, and the Oriental Orthodox Church. His feast day is celebrated on October 16.
Fortunatus of Casei
Saint Fortunatus of Casei (Italian: San Fortunato di Casei) is a 3rd-century martyr who is venerated as a saint by the Catholic Church. Tradition makes him a member of the Theban Legion, a group of Christian soldiers who were martyred in Agaunum (modern-day Saint-Maurice, Switzerland) in 286 AD.
However, Fortunatus' relics were situated in the catacombs of Pope Callixtus I in Rome until 1746, when Cardinal Guadagni, Roman vicar to Benedict XIV, re-exhumed and displayed Fortunatus' relics in the collegiate church of Santa Maria in Via Lata in Rome. It is unclear how the relics of Fortunatus reached Rome from the saint's supposed place of death in the Swiss Alps.
From Santa Maria in Via Lata, Fortunatus' relics were translated to Casei Gerola in 1765, as a gift to the church there from the Holy See. Casei Gerola, in the province of Pavia, was an important village of the diocese of Tortona, which had close ties to the papacy. His relics were kept in an urn; Fortunatus' skull was crushed, indicating the cause of death to be a fatal blow to the head.
Saint Fortunatus of Casei is a popular saint in Italy, especially in the Lombardy region. He is often invoked as a protector against headaches and other head injuries. His feast day is celebrated on October 16.
Petra de San José
Petra de San José (1845-1906) was a Spanish nun who founded the Congregation of the Mothers of the Forsaken and Saint Joseph of the Mountain. She was beatified by Pope John Paul II in 1994.
Petra was born in Valle de Abdalajís, Spain, on December 25, 1845. She was the youngest of six children. Her parents were poor farmers, and she received little formal education.
From a young age, Petra felt called to a religious life. She was particularly drawn to helping the poor and the marginalized. In 1872, she founded a shelter for homeless women and children in Málaga, Spain.
In 1888, Petra founded the Congregation of the Mothers of the Forsaken and Saint Joseph of the Mountain. The congregation's mission is to care for the poor, the sick, and the abandoned.
Petra served as the congregation's first superior general until her death on August 16, 1906. She was beatified by Pope John Paul II on October 16, 1994.
