Month: February 2018

Duodécimo Kaléndas Mártii. Luna.

Published on by TheOldRomanLeave a comment

romanmartyrology

Duodécimo Kaléndas Mártii.  Luna. The Eighteenth Day of February.  The Night of the Moon.

Hierosólymis natális sancti Simeónis, Epíscopi et Mártyris; qui fílius Cléophæ et propínquus Salvatóris secúndum carnem fuísse tráditur. Hic, Hierosolymórum Epíscopus post Jacóbum, fratrem Dómini, ordinátus, et, in Trajáni persecutióne, multis supplíciis afféctus, martyrio consummátus est, ómnibus qui áderant et Júdice ipso mirántibus ut centum vigínti annórum senex fórtiter constantérque supplícium crucis pertulísset. At Jerusalem, the birthday of St. Simeon, bishop and martyr, who is said to have been the son of Cleophas, and a relative of the Saviour according to the flesh. He was consecrated bishop of Jerusalem after St. James, the cousin of our Lord. In the persecution of Trajan, after having endured many torments, his martyrdom was completed. All who were present, even the judge himself, were astonished that a man one hundred and twenty years of age could bear the torment of crucifixion with such fortitude and constancy. Apud Ostia Tiberína sanctórum Mártyrum Máximi et Cláudii fratrum, et Præpedígnæ, uxóris Cláudii, cum duóbus fíliis Alexándro et Cútia; qui, cum essent præclaríssimi géneris, omnes, jubénte Diocletiáno, tenti atque in exsílium deportáti sunt, ac deínde, incéndio concremáti, Deo ipsi odoríferum martyrii sacrifícium obtulérunt. Eórum relíquiæ, in flumen projéctæ et a Christiánis perquisítæ, juxta eándem civitátem sepúltæ sunt. At Ostia, the holy martyrs Maximus and his brother Claudius, and Praepedigna, the wife of Claudius, with her two sons Alexander and Cutias. Although all of a noble birth, by the order of Diocletian, they were apprehended and sent into exile. Afterwards being burned alive, they offered to God the sweet sacrifice of martyrdom. Their remains were cast into the river, but the Christians found them and buried them near the city. In Africa sanctórum Mártyrum Lúcii, Silváni, Rútuli, Clássici, Secundíni, Frúctuli et Máximi. In Africa, the holy martyrs Lucius, Sylvanus, Rutulus, Classicus, Secundinus, Fructulus, and Maximus. Constantinópoli sancti Flaviáni Epíscopi, qui, cum fidem cathólicam Ephesi propugnáret, ab ímpii Dióscori factióne pugnis et cálcibus percússus est, et, in exsílium actus, ibídem post tríduum vitam finívit. At Constantinople, St. Flavian, bishop, who, for having defended the Catholic faith at Ephesus, was attacked with slaps and kicks by the faction of the impious Dioscorus, and then driven into exile where he died within three days. Toléti, in Hispánia, sancti Helládii, Epíscopi et Confessóris, qui a sancto Ildefónso, Toletáno Episcopo, multis láudibus celebrátur. At Toledo, Spain, St. Helladius, bishop and confessor, who received much praise from St. Ildefonse, Bishop of Toledo.

Et álibi aliórum plurimórum sanctórum Mártyrum et Confessórum, atque sanctárum Vírginum. And elsewhere in divers places, many other holy martyrs, confessors, and holy virgins. R. Deo grátias. R. Thanks be to God.

Butler’s Lives of the Saints:

February XVIII.
St. Simeon, Bishop of Jerusalem, Martyr
SS. Leo and Paregorius, Martyrs

ORCCE Ordo: S. Simeonis Faustini Episcopi et Martyris ~ Simplex; Tempora: Feria III infra Hebdomadam Septuagesimae

Nota Bene:  

Burma (Myanmar): Ethnic Cleansing of Christian Kachin

Syrian town of Saidnaya battles armed groups

Enquiry Of Increased Violence In CAR

Machine Gun Preacher Raided By FBI

Pakistan Christian Man Allegedly Tortured and Murdered By Police in Islamabad

Two murdered in Russian church shooting

Anti-Christian Violence Detailed in Hearing Calling for Filling of Religious Freedom Post

NIGERIA: Terrorists Brutally Attack Christians While Sparing Muslim Neighbors

Reports of Horrific Torture Of Children In Syria

Kenneth Bae returned to labor camp, sister pleads for his release #BringBackBae

Death In the Nuba Mountains

‘Proselytism’ Conviction of Convert from Islam in Morocco Overturned

Central African Republic: Soldiers Lynch Man Minutes After Presidential Address

Who are the Pakistani Taliban?

Grenade Attack on Phillippine Church

How Syrian Christians Are In Danger

Syria’s Catholic Leader Opposes Plans to Bring Refugees to the West

American Detained By North Korea- Free Kenneth Bae

Update: Pastor and Son Killed in Central African Republic as Religious Leaders Try to Keep Peace

Chaos In The Central African Republic, Making Sense & Asking Questions

Nigeria: Battered By Islamic Terror Group – Kill 52, Set 300 Houses Ablaze

Forgive or Forget: Survivors of genocide in the Holocaust, Rwanda & Cambodia

Michigan Mom says School Told Son Not to Bring Bible to School

Syria: Christian Stabbed with Crucifix, Decapitated

Tertiodécimo Kaléndas Mártii. Luna.

Published on by TheOldRomanLeave a comment

romanmartyrology

Tertiodécimo Kaléndas Mártii.  Luna. The Seventeenth Day of February. The Night of the Moon.

Floréntiæ natális sancti Aléxii Falconérii Confessóris, e septem Fundatóribus Ordinis Servórum beátæ Maríæ Vírginis; qui, décimo supra centésimum vitæ suæ anno, Christi Jesu et Angelórum præséntia recreátus, beáto fine quiévit. Ipsíus tamen ac Sociórum festum prídie Idus Februárii celebrátur. In Florence, the birthday of St. Alexis Falconieri, confessor, one of the seven founders of the Order of the Servites of the Blessed Virgin Mary. In the one hundred and tenth year of his age, he ended his blessed career in the consoling presence of Christ Jesus and the angels. His feast, with that of his companions, is kept on the 12th of February. Romæ pássio sancti Faustíni, quem álii quadragínta quátuor secúti sunt ad corónam. At Rome, the passion of St. Faustinus, whom forty-four others followed to receive the crown of martyrdom. In Pérside natális beáti Polychrónii, Epíscopi Babylónis, qui, in persecutióne Décii, ore lapídibus cæso, mánibus exténsis, ad cælum óculos élevans, emísit spíritum. In Persia, during the persecution of Decius, the birthday of blessed Polychronius, bishop of Babylon, who, being struck in the mouth with stones, died with hands outstretched and eyes lifted towards heaven. Concórdiæ, in Venetórum fínibus, sanctórum Mártyrum Donáti, Secundiáni et Rómuli, cum áliis octogínta sex, ejúsdem corónæ consórtibus. At Concordia, the holy martyrs Donatus, Secundian, and Romulus, with eighty-six others, partakers of the same crown. Cæsaréæ, in Palæstína, sancti Theodúli senis, qui, cum esset ex família Prǽsidis Firmiliáni, et, Mártyrum excitátus exémplo, Christum constánter confiterétur, martyrii palmam, cruci affíxus, nóbili triúmpho proméruit. At Caesarea in Palestine, the death of St. Theodulus, in the service of the governor Firmilian, at a great age. Prompted by the example of the martyrs, he confessed Christ with constancy, and was nailed to a cross. By this noble victory he merited the palm of martyrdom. Ibídem sancti Juliáni Cappádocis, qui, exosculátus necatórum Mártyrum córpora, et ídeo ut Christiánus delátus et ad Prǽsidem ductus, lento igne jussus est combúri. In the same place, St. Julian the Cappadocian, who, because he had kissed the relics of martyrs, was denounced as a Christian. Being taken to the governor, he was ordered to be burned to death over a slow fire. In pago Tarvanénsi, in Gállia, sancti Silvíni, Epíscopi Tolosáni. In the territory of Terouanne in France, St. Silvinus, bishop of Toulouse. In monastério Cluain-ednechénsi, in Hibérnia, sancti Fintáni, Presbyteri et Abbátis. In the monastery of Cluainedhech in Ireland, St. Fintan, abbot.

Et álibi aliórum plurimórum sanctórum Mártyrum et Confessórum, atque sanctárum Vírginum. And elsewhere in divers places, many other holy martyrs, confessors, and holy virgins. R. Deo grátias. R. Thanks be to God.

Butler’s Lives of the Saints:

February XVII.
St. Flavian, Archbishop of Constantinople, Martyr
SS. Theodulus and Julian, Martyrs
St. Silvin of Auchy, Bishop and Confessor
St. Loman, or Luman, Bishop in Ireland, Confessor
St. Fintan, Abbot of Cluain-Ednech, in Ireland

ORCCE Ordo: Feria II infra Hebdomadam Septuagesimae ~ Ferial

Nota Bene:  

Machine Gun Preacher Raided By FBI

Pakistan Christian Man Allegedly Tortured and Murdered By Police in Islamabad

Two murdered in Russian church shooting

Anti-Christian Violence Detailed in Hearing Calling for Filling of Religious Freedom Post

NIGERIA: Terrorists Brutally Attack Christians While Sparing Muslim Neighbors

Reports of Horrific Torture Of Children In Syria

Kenneth Bae returned to labor camp, sister pleads for his release #BringBackBae

Death In the Nuba Mountains

‘Proselytism’ Conviction of Convert from Islam in Morocco Overturned

Central African Republic: Soldiers Lynch Man Minutes After Presidential Address

Who are the Pakistani Taliban?

Grenade Attack on Phillippine Church

How Syrian Christians Are In Danger

Syria’s Catholic Leader Opposes Plans to Bring Refugees to the West

American Detained By North Korea- Free Kenneth Bae

Update: Pastor and Son Killed in Central African Republic as Religious Leaders Try to Keep Peace

Chaos In The Central African Republic, Making Sense & Asking Questions

Nigeria: Battered By Islamic Terror Group – Kill 52, Set 300 Houses Ablaze

Forgive or Forget: Survivors of genocide in the Holocaust, Rwanda & Cambodia

Michigan Mom says School Told Son Not to Bring Bible to School

Syria: Christian Stabbed with Crucifix, Decapitated

Quartodécimo Kaléndas Mártii. Luna.

Published on by TheOldRomanLeave a comment

romanmartyrology

Quartodécimo Kaléndas Mártii. Luna. The Sixteenth Day of February. The Night of the Moon. 

Romæ beáti Onésimi, de quo sanctus Paulus Apóstolus ad Philémonem scribit; quem étiam, post sanctum Timótheum, Ephesiórum Epíscopum ordinávit, prædicationísque verbum illi commisit. Ipse autem Onésimus, vinctus Romam perdúctus ac pro fide Christi lapidátus, primo ibídem sepúltus fuit; inde ad locum ubi Epíscopus fúerat ordinátus, corpus ejus delátum est. At Rome, blessed Onesimus, concerning whom the apostle St. Paul wrote to Philemon. He made him bishop of Ephesus after St. Timothy, and committed to him the office of preaching. Being led a prisoner to Rome, and stoned to death for the faith of Christ, he was first buried there, but his body was afterwards taken to the place where he had been bishop.
In Ægypto sancti Juliáni Mártyris, cum áliis quinque míllibus. In Egypt, St. Julian, martyr, with five thousand other Christians.

Cæsaréæ, in Palæstína, sanctórum Mártyrum Ægyptiórum Elíæ, Jeremíæ, Isaíæ, Samuélis et Daniélis; qui, cum spontánee ministrássent Confessóribus in Cilícia ad metálla damnátis, et inde reverteréntur, sunt comprehénsi, et a Firmiliáno Præside, sub Galério Maximiáno Imperatóre, sævíssime torti, gládio demum percússi sunt. Post eos sanctus Porphyrius, Pámphili Mártyris fámulus, et sanctus Seléucus Cáppadox, qui iterátis certamínibus sæpe vícerant, rursus cruciáti sunt, atque alter incéndio, gládio alter corónam martyrii accepérunt. At Caesarea, in Palestine, the holy martyrs Elias, Jeremias, Isaias, Samuel, and Daniel. These Egyptians of their own accord ministered to the confessors condemned to labour in the mines of Cilicia, but were arrested upon their return, and after being cruelly tortured by the governor Firmilian, under Emperor Galerius Maximian, were put to the sword. After them, St. Porphyry, servant of the martyr Pamphilus, and St. Seleucus the Cappadocian, who had been triumphant in several previous tests, being again tortured, now won the crown of martyrdom, the one by fire, the other by the sword.

Nicomedíæ sanctæ Juliánæ, Vírginis et Mártyris; quæ, sub Maximiáno Imperatóre, primum a patre suo Africáno gráviter cæsa, deínde ab Evilásio Præfécto, cui núbere recusáverat, várie cruciáta, et póstmodum in cárcerem detrúsa, ubi palam cum diábolo conflíxit, demum, cum flammas ígnium et ollam fervéntem superásset, cápitis decollatióne martyrium consummávit. Ipsíus autem corpus póstea Cumas, in Campánia translátum est. At Nicomedia, St. Juliana, virgin and martyr. Under Emperor Maximian, she was first severely scourged by her own father, Africanus, and then made to suffer many torments by the prefect Evilasius, whom she had refused to marry. Later thrown into prison, she encountered the evil spirit in a visible manner. Finally, because the fiery furnace and a caldron of boiling oil could do her no injury, her martyrdom was fulfilled by beheading. Her body was later transferred to Cumi in Campania.

Et álibi aliórum plurimórum sanctórum Mártyrum et Confessórum, atque sanctárum Vírginum.
R.  Deo grátias.
And elsewhere in divers places, many other holy martyrs, confessors, and holy virgins.
R.  Thanks be to God.

February XVI.
St. Onesimus, Disciple of St. Paul
SS. Elias, Jeremy, Isaias, Samuel, Daniel, and Other Holy Martyrs at Cæsarea, in Palestine
St. Juliana, Virgin and Martyr
St. Gregory X. Pope and Confessor
St. Tanco, or Tatta, Bishop and Martyr, Native of Scotland

Foundation for Relief and Reconciliation in the Middle East – providing humanitarian relief in Iraq through St George’s Church and Clinic.

Open Doors – The world’s largest outreach to persecuted Christians in the most high-risk places.FOR NEWS OF CONTEMPORARY MARTYRS…

Voice of the Persecuted – Informing the world of Christian persecution, one of the worst humanitarian crises on the planet, today.

Quintodécimo Kaléndas Mártii. Luna.

Published on by TheOldRomanLeave a comment

romanmartyrology

Quintodécimo Kaléndas Mártii. Luna. The Fifteenth Day of February. The Night of the Moon. 

Bríxiæ natális sanctórum Mártyrum Faustíni et Jovítæ fratrum, qui sub Hadriáno Imperatóre, post multa præclára ob Christi fidem suscépta certámina, victrícem martyrii corónam accepérunt. At Brescia, in the time of Emperor Adrian, the birthday of the holy martyrs Faustinus and Jovita, who received the triumphant crown of martyrdom after many glorious combats for the faith of Christ.

Romæ sancti Cratónis Mártyris, qui, cum uxóre sua et univérsa domo a beáto Valentíno Epíscopo baptizátus, non multo post, una cum illis, martyrio consummátus est. At Rome, St. Craton, martyr. A short time after being baptized with his wife and all his household by the holy bishop Valentine, he was put to death with them.
Interámnæ natális sanctórum Mártyrum Saturníni, Cástuli, Magni et Lúcii. At Teramo, the birthday of the holy martyrs Saturninus, Castulus, Magnus, and Lucius.

Ibídem sanctæ Agapis, Vírginis et Mártyris. In the same place, St. Agape, virgin and martyr.

Vasióne, in Gálliis, sancti Quinídii Epíscopi, cujus mortem in conspéctu Dómini pretiósam mirácula crebra testántur. At Vaison in France, St. Quinidius, bishop, whose death was precious in the sight of God, as is shewn by frequent miracles.
Cápuæ sancti Decorósi, Epíscopi et Confessóris. At Capua, St. Decorosus, bishop and confessor.
In Província Valériæ sancti Sevéri Presbyteri, qui (ut beátus Gregórius Papa scribit), fusis lácrimis, defúnctum revocávit ad vitam. In the province of Valeria, St. Severus, priest, of whom St. Gregory says that by his tears he recalled a dead man to life.
Antiochíæ sancti Joséphi Diáconi. At Antioch, St. Joseph, deacon.
Arvérnis, in Gállia, sanctæ Geórgiæ Vírginis. In Auvergne in France, St. Georgia, virgin.

Et álibi aliórum plurimórum sanctórum Mártyrum et Confessórum, atque sanctárum Vírginum.
R.  Deo grátias.
And elsewhere in divers places, many other holy martyrs, confessors, and holy virgins.
R.  Thanks be to God.

February XV.
SS. Faustinus and Jovita, Martyrs
St. Sigefride, or Sigfrid, Bishop, Apostle of Sweden

Foundation for Relief and Reconciliation in the Middle East – providing humanitarian relief in Iraq through St George’s Church and Clinic.

Open Doors – The world’s largest outreach to persecuted Christians in the most high-risk places.FOR NEWS OF CONTEMPORARY MARTYRS…

Voice of the Persecuted – Informing the world of Christian persecution, one of the worst humanitarian crises on the planet, today.

Sextodécimo Kaléndas Mártii. Luna.

Published on by TheOldRomanLeave a comment

romanmartyrology

Sextodécimo Kaléndas Mártii.  Luna. The Fourteenth Day of February. The Night of the Moon.

Romæ, via Flamínia, natális sancti Valentíni, Presbyteri et Mártyris, qui, post multa sanitátum et doctrínæ insígnia, fústibus cæsus et decollátus est, sub Cláudio Cǽsare. At Rome, on the Flaminian Way, in the time of Emperor Claudius, the birthday of St. Valentine, priest and martyr, who after having cured and instructed many persons, was beaten with clubs and beheaded. Ibídem deposítio sancti Cyrílli, Epíscopi et Confessóris; qui, una cum sancto Methódio, simíliter Epíscopo et fratre suo, cujus dies natális octávo Idus Aprílis recensétur, multas Slávicas gentes earúmque Reges ad fidem Christi perdúxit. Horum tamen Sanctórum festívitas Nonis Júlii celebrátur. In the same place, St. Cyril, bishop, who together with his brother Methodius, also a bishop, whose birthday is the 6th of April, brought many people and the rulers of Moravia to the faith of Christ. Their feast is celebrated on the 7th of July. Item Romæ sanctórum Mártyrum Vitális, Felículæ et Zenónis. Also at Rome, the holy martyrs Vitalis, Felicula and Zeno. Iterámnæ sancti Valentíni, Epíscopi et Mártyris, qui, post diútinam cædem mancipátus custódiæ, et, cum superári non posset, tandem, médiæ noctis siléntio ejéctus de cárcere, decollátus est, jussu Præfécti urbis Plácidi. At Teramo, St. Valentine, bishop and martyr, who was scourged, committed to prison, and, because he remained unshaken in his faith, was taken out of his dungeon in the dead of night and beheaded by order of Placidus, prefect of the city. Alexandríæ sanctórum Mártyrum Cyriónis, Presbyteri, Bassiáni Lectóris, Agathónis Exorcístæ, et Móysis; qui omnes, igne combústi, evolavérunt ad cælum. At Alexandria, the holy martyrs Cyrion, priest; Bassian, lector; Agatho, exorcist; and Moses, who perished in the flames and took their flight to heaven. Interámnæ sanctórum Próculi, Ephébi et Apollónii Mártyrum, qui, cum ad sancti Valentíni corpus vigílias ágerent, Leóntii Consuláris jussu comprehénsi sunt, et gládio cæsi. At Teramo, the holy martyrs Proculus, Ephebus, and Apollonius, who, while keeping watch at the body of St. Valentine, were arrested and put to the sword by command of the consular officer, Leontius. Alexandríæ sanctórum Mártyrum Bassi, Antónii et Protólici, qui demérsi sunt in mare. At Alexandria, the holy martyrs Bassus, Anthony, and Protolicus, who were drowned in the sea. Item Alexandríæ sanctórum Dionysii et Ammónii decollatórum. Also at Alexandria, the Saints Denis and Ammonius, who were beheaded. Neápoli, in Campánia, sancti Nostriáni Epíscopi, qui in cathólica fide contra hæréticam pravitátem tuénda éxstitit insígnis. At Naples, in Campania, St. Nostrian, bishop, who was outstanding for his defence of the Catholic faith against heretical errors. Ravénnæ sancti Eleuchádii, Epíscopi et Confessóris. At Ravenna, St. Eleuchadius, bishop and confessor. In Bithynia sancti Auxéntii Abbátis. In Bithynia, St. Auxentius, abbot. Apud Surréntum sancti Antoníni Abbátis, qui e monastério Cassinénsi, a Longobárdis devastáto, in solitúdinem ejúsdem urbis secéssit; ibíque, sanctitáte célebris, obdormívit in Dómino. Ipsíus corpus multis quotídie miráculis, et præsértim in energúmenis liberándis effúlget. At Sorrento, St. Anthony, abbot, who, when the monastery of Monte Cassino was devastated by the Lombards, withdrew into a solitude of the neighbourhood, where, celebrated for his holiness, he went calmly to his repose in God. His body is daily glorified by many miracles, especially by the deliverance of possessed persons.

Et álibi aliórum plurimórum sanctórum Mártyrum et Confessórum, atque sanctárum Vírginum. And elsewhere in divers places, many other holy martyrs, confessors, and holy virgins. R. Deo grátias. R. Thanks be to God.

Butler’s Lives of the Saints:

February XIV.
St. Valentine, Priest and Martyr
St. Maro, Abbot
St. Abraames, Bishop of Carres
St. Auxentius, Hermit
St. Conran, Bishop of Orkney, Confessor

ORCCE Ordo: S. Valentini ~ Simplex; Tempora: Feria VI infra Hebdomadam V post Epiphaniam

Nota Bene: Two murdered in Russian church shooting

Anti-Christian Violence Detailed in Hearing Calling for Filling of Religious Freedom Post

NIGERIA: Terrorists Brutally Attack Christians While Sparing Muslim Neighbors

Reports of Horrific Torture Of Children In Syria

Kenneth Bae returned to labor camp, sister pleads for his release #BringBackBae

Death In the Nuba Mountains

‘Proselytism’ Conviction of Convert from Islam in Morocco Overturned

Central African Republic: Soldiers Lynch Man Minutes After Presidential Address

Who are the Pakistani Taliban?

Grenade Attack on Phillippine Church

How Syrian Christians Are In Danger

Syria’s Catholic Leader Opposes Plans to Bring Refugees to the West

American Detained By North Korea- Free Kenneth Bae

Update: Pastor and Son Killed in Central African Republic as Religious Leaders Try to Keep Peace

Chaos In The Central African Republic, Making Sense & Asking Questions

Nigeria: Battered By Islamic Terror Group – Kill 52, Set 300 Houses Ablaze

Forgive or Forget: Survivors of genocide in the Holocaust, Rwanda & Cambodia

Michigan Mom says School Told Son Not to Bring Bible to School

Syria: Christian Stabbed with Crucifix, Decapitated

Super omnia caritas: a pastoral epistle for Lent 2018

Published on by TheOldRomanLeave a comment

Carissime in Christo

“Above all charity[1]” summarises the apostolic exhortations of the New Testament epistle writers and indeed the crux of our Catholic faith. The sacrificial love of God made manifest in Christ for us is the raison d’etre of the Church, to proclaim and teach it is the Divine Commission but more than this, it is to be the very nature of our own being, individually, to live our lives sacrificially for, in and with God, now and for eternity.

Holy Mother Church through the wisdom contained in her Divine Liturgy and in expression of her own love toward us, has exhorted us throughout the Gesima season to approach holy Lent with purpose, but above all love.  She has every Sunday of Gesima used the Apostle Paul’s teaching, that great evangelist and expositor of the Gospel, to encourage us[2], to entreat us[3]and to enlighten us[4] to this end. In the Gospels of the same Sundays, she has sought to remind us of the worth of our salvation[5], how we receive our salvation[6] and how we attain our salvation[7]. Having taken these lessons to heart, taken stock of our spiritual condition, it is for us now to take the time and effort to address the spiritual and temporal remedies necessary for us to make manifest in our lives our love for God.

So it is that on Ash Wednesday itself when our Lenten season begins, we are reminded in the liturgy of the purpose of the season, a time to renew our relationship with God, “Now therefore saith the Lord: Be converted to me with all your heart, in fasting, and in weeping, and in mourning.”[8]We are reminded of both the invitation and the desire of God for us to demonstrate our love for Him in return for the manifestation of His love for us in Christ and for the very reason He created us. We are reminded of that first lesson we learned in our catechism, “Why did God make you? God made me to know him, to love him and to serve him in this world, and to be happy with him forever in the next.” This holy season is an opportunity not just to repair our relationship with God, but renew it anew, begin again and consolidate, strengthen and cement that relationship in the realisation of true, not sentimental, but sacrificial love.

In order to maximise the efficacy of our Lenten endeavours, it is necessary for us to avail ourselves of that ineffable and sublime grace that God provides for us in the sacraments of holy Mother Church. Mindful that Our Lord Himself admonishes us “thou shalt not know the day nor the hour”[9], let us avail ourselves of the opportunity to rejuvenate our faith by frequent recourse to the Sacrament of Penance, that when and however “that hour” comes to pass for us, we are found ready, made “white in the blood of the lamb”[10] through the forgiveness of our sins and able worthily then to commune with i.e. become one with God through the Holy Communion.  As a pilgrim people we are provided with the opportunity to receive “our daily bread”[11], that “new manna from heaven”[12] to feed us on our journey toward our heavenly home, the Sacrament of Christ’s love made available to us in the holy Eucharist. These two restorative sacraments, after baptism, are the assured means by which we who would return our hearts to God, may do so confident of His promises to forgive and receive us into Himself. Remembering that this is a season of renewal, it is an opportunity to avail ourselves too of His revealed Word, His Divine Revelation of Himself in Scripture as well as in sacrament. We should seek to realise again our advocacy in the Holy Ghost and seek to imbue ourselves with His particular assistance in wisdom, understanding, counsel, fortitude, knowledge, piety and holy fear[13], strengthening and enlightening our resolve, confirming our faith, grounding our hope and manifesting charity.

Aside from the interior reflection and introspection Lent naturally requires and opportunely affords, we must remember that charity of itself requires expression, not only between ourselves and God, but between ourselves and others too. We are charged[14] to extend God’s invitation to know Him and live in love with Him to others by ourselves demonstrating in our lives His mercy, His kindness, His love. Not our own pale reflection of His nature, but striving to manifest in ourselves the reconciliation of His image within us, of that reconciliation between creature and Creator that Our Lord embodied in Himself and enables us so to be, by following His way of perfection, Who is “the way, the truth and the life,”[15] our “light and salvation”[16] in Whose light is our life[17] Who has reconciled us to God in Himself[18] that we might reconcile others to Him as His ambassadors in the world. Taking up our cross and denying ourselves[19]is to become like Him, bearing through suffering and patience our own and each other’s faults, to share in that redemption He has gained for us by His Cross and Passion[20] manifesting God’s love.

Wishing you a great and holy Lent

I.X.

Feria IV Cinerum 2018AD

[1] Cf Colossians iii.14 & 1 Corinthians xiii.13

[2] 1 Cor. ix. 24 & x. 1.5

[3] 2 Cor. xi. 19-33

[4] 1 Cor. xiii. 1-13

[5] St Matt. xx. 1-16

[6] St. Luke viii. 4-15

[7] St. Luke xviii. 31-43

[8] Joel ii.12

[9] St. Matt. xxiv.36, St.Matt. xxv.13, St. Mark xiii.32

[10] Revelation vii.14, Isaiah i.18 & 1 John i.7

[11] St. Matt. vi. 11

[12] St. John vi.31-35

[13] Isaiah xi.2-3

[14] St. Matt. xxii.37-40

[15] St. John xiv.6

[16] Psalm xxvii.1

[17] St. John i.4

[18] 2 Cor. v.11-21

[19] St. Luke ix.23

[20] Ephesians i.7

Idibus Februárii. Luna.

Published on by TheOldRomanLeave a comment

romanmartyrology

Idibus Februárii.  Luna. The Thirteenth Day of February. The Night of the Moon.

Antiochíæ natális sancti Agábi Prophétæ, de quo beátus Lucas in Actibus Apostólicis scribit. At Antioch, the birthday of St. Agabus, prophet, of whom mention is made by St. Luke in the Acts of the Apostles. Tudérti, in Umbria, sancti Benígni, Presbyteri et Mártyris; qui, Diocletiáni et Maximiáni Imperatórum témpore, cum fidem Christiánam verbo et exémplo propagáre non desísteret, ab idolórum cultóribus captus est, ac, váriis afféctus supplíciis, sacerdotále munus honóre martyrii cumulávit. At Todi in Umbria, St. Benignus, priest and martyr, who would not cease spreading the Christian faith. In the reign of Emperors Diocletian and Maximian he was taken by the pagans, suffered various tortures, and finally reached the perfection of his priestly office with the honour of martyrdom. Melitínæ, in Arménia, sancti Polyéucti Mártyris, qui in persecutióne Décii multa passus, martyrii corónam adéptus est. At Meletine in Armenia, in the persecution of Decius, St. Polyeuctus, who, after many sufferings, obtained the crown of martyrdom. Lugdúni, in Gállia, sancti Juliáni Mártyris. At Lyons in France, St. Julian, martyr. Ravénnæ sanctárum Fuscæ Vírginis, ejúsque nutrícis Mauræ; quæ, Décio imperánte, multa sub Quinctiáno Præside perpéssæ, demum, gládio transfíxæ, martyrium consummárunt. At Ravenna, in the time of Emperor Decius and the governor Quinctian, the Saints Fusca, virgin, and Maura, her nurse. They endured many afflictions, but were finally transfixed with a sword, and thus ended their martyrdom. Lugdúni, in Gállia, sancti Stéphani, Epíscopi et Confessóris. At Lyons in France, St. Stephen, bishop and confessor. Reáte sancti Stéphani Abbátis, miræ patiéntiæ viri; in cujus tránsitu (ut refert beátus Gregórius Papa) sancti Angeli, céteris étiam vidéntibus, adfuérunt. At Rieti, the abbot St. Stephen, a man of wonderful patience, at whose death, as is related by blessed Pope Gregory, the holy angels were present and visible to all.

Et álibi aliórum plurimórum sanctórum Mártyrum et Confessórum, atque sanctárum Vírginum. And elsewhere in divers places, many other holy martyrs, confessors, and holy virgins. R. Deo grátias. R. Thanks be to God.

Butler’s Lives of the Saints:

February XIII.
St. Catharine de Ricci, Virgin
St. Licinius, Bishop of Angers, Confessor
St. Polyeuctus, Martyr
St. Gregory II. Pope and Confessor
St. Martinianus, Hermit at Athens
St. Modomnoc, or Dominick, of Ossory, Bishop and Confessor
St. Stephen, Abbot
B. Roger, Abbot and Confessor

ORCCE Ordo: Feria V infra Hebdomadam V post Epiphaniam ~ Ferial

Nota Bene: 

Two murdered in Russian church shooting

Anti-Christian Violence Detailed in Hearing Calling for Filling of Religious Freedom Post

NIGERIA: Terrorists Brutally Attack Christians While Sparing Muslim Neighbors

Reports of Horrific Torture Of Children In Syria

Kenneth Bae returned to labor camp, sister pleads for his release #BringBackBae

Death In the Nuba Mountains

‘Proselytism’ Conviction of Convert from Islam in Morocco Overturned

Central African Republic: Soldiers Lynch Man Minutes After Presidential Address

Who are the Pakistani Taliban?

Grenade Attack on Phillippine Church

How Syrian Christians Are In Danger

Syria’s Catholic Leader Opposes Plans to Bring Refugees to the West

American Detained By North Korea- Free Kenneth Bae

Update: Pastor and Son Killed in Central African Republic as Religious Leaders Try to Keep Peace

Chaos In The Central African Republic, Making Sense & Asking Questions

Nigeria: Battered By Islamic Terror Group – Kill 52, Set 300 Houses Ablaze

Forgive or Forget: Survivors of genocide in the Holocaust, Rwanda & Cambodia

Michigan Mom says School Told Son Not to Bring Bible to School

Syria: Christian Stabbed with Crucifix, Decapitated

Prídie Idus Februárii. Luna.

Published on by TheOldRomanLeave a comment

romanmartyrology

Prídie Idus Februárii.  Luna. The Twelfth Day of February. The Night of the Moon.

Sanctórum septem Fundatórum Ordinis Servórum beátæ Maríæ Vírginis, Confessórum, quorum deposítio respectívis diébus recólitur. Quos autem in vita unus veræ fraternitátis spíritus sociávit, et indivísa post óbitum venerátio pópuli prosecúta est, eos Leo Décimus tértius, Póntifex Máximus, una páriter Sanctórum fastis accénsuit. The seven Holy Founders of the Order of Servites of the Blessed Virgin Mary, whose deaths are noted on their respective days. As one spirit of true fraternal love united them in life, and as the people joined them together in the same veneration after death, Pope Leo XIII placed them together in the catalogue of the saints. In Africa sancti Damiáni, mílitis et Mártyris. In Africa, St. Damian, soldier and martyr. Carthágine sanctórum Mártyrum Modésti et Juliáni. At Carthage, the holy martyrs Modestus and Julian. Alexandríæ sanctórum Mártyrum Modésti et Ammónii infántum. At Alexandria, the holy children Modestus and Ammonius, martyrs. Barcinóne, in Hispánia, sanctæ Euláliæ Vírginis, quæ, témpore Diocletiáni Imperatóris, equúleum, úngulas flammásque perpéssa, demum, cruci affíxa, gloriósam martyrii corónam accépit. At Barcelona in Spain, in the time of Emperor Diocletian, St. Eulalia, virgin, who, being racked, torn with iron hooks, cast into the fire, and crucified, received the glorious crown of martyrdom. Constantinópoli sancti Melétii, Epíscopi Antiochéni, qui, pro fide cathólica sæpe exsílium passus, demum in eádem urbe migrávit ad Dóminum. Ejus virtútes sanctus Joánnes Chrysóstomus et sanctus Gregórius Nyssénus summis láudibus celebrárunt. At Constantinople, St. Meletius, bishop of Antioch, who often suffered exile for the Catholic faith, and finally died at Constantinople and went to his reward. His virtues have been extolled by St. John Chrysostom and St. Gregory of Nyssa. Item Constantinópoli sancti Antónii Epíscopi, témpore Leónis sexti Imperatóris. Also at Constantinople, St. Anthony, a bishop in the time of Emperor Leo VI. Verónæ sancti Gaudéntii, Epíscopi et Confessóris. At Verona, St. Gaudentius, bishop and confessor.

Et álibi aliórum plurimórum sanctórum Mártyrum et Confessórum, atque sanctárum Vírginum. And elsewhere in divers places, many other holy martyrs, confessors, and holy virgins. R. Deo grátias. R. Thanks be to God.

Butler’s Lives of the Saints:

February XII.
St. Benedict of Anian, Abbot
St. Meletius, Patriarch of Antioch, Confessor
St. Eulalia, Virgin, of Barcelona, Martyr
St. Antony Cauleas, Patriarch of Constantinople, Confessor

ORCCE Ordo: S. Benedicti Biscopi Abbatis

Nota Bene: 

NIGERIA: Terrorists Brutally Attack Christians While Sparing Muslim Neighbors

Reports of Horrific Torture Of Children In Syria

Kenneth Bae returned to labor camp, sister pleads for his release #BringBackBae

Death In the Nuba Mountains

‘Proselytism’ Conviction of Convert from Islam in Morocco Overturned

Central African Republic: Soldiers Lynch Man Minutes After Presidential Address

Who are the Pakistani Taliban?

Grenade Attack on Phillippine Church

How Syrian Christians Are In Danger

Syria’s Catholic Leader Opposes Plans to Bring Refugees to the West

American Detained By North Korea- Free Kenneth Bae

Update: Pastor and Son Killed in Central African Republic as Religious Leaders Try to Keep Peace

Chaos In The Central African Republic, Making Sense & Asking Questions

Nigeria: Battered By Islamic Terror Group – Kill 52, Set 300 Houses Ablaze

Forgive or Forget: Survivors of genocide in the Holocaust, Rwanda & Cambodia

Michigan Mom says School Told Son Not to Bring Bible to School

Syria: Christian Stabbed with Crucifix, Decapitated

Tértio Idus Februárii. Luna.

Published on by TheOldRomanLeave a comment

romanmartyrology

Tértio Idus Februárii.  Luna. The Eleventh Day of February. The Night of the Moon.

Lapúrdi, in Gállia, Apparítio beátæ Maríæ Vírginis. At Lourdes in France, the apparition of the Blessed Virgin Mary. Hadrianópoli, in Thrácia, sanctórum Mártyrum Lúcii Epíscopi, et Sociórum ejus, sub Constántio. Ipse Lúcius, ab Ariánis multa perpéssus, in vínculis martyrium consummávit; céteri vero nobilióres cívium, cum Ariános, in Sardicénsi Concílio tunc damnátos, recípere noluíssent, a Philágrio Cómite capitálem senténtiam excepérunt. At Adrianople, the holy martyrs Lucius, bishop, and his companions. Lucius suffered much from the Arians under Constantius, and completed his martyrdom in prison. The others, among the foremost citizens, refusing to communicate with the Arians, who were just condemned in the Council of Sardica, were sentenced to capital punishment by the count Philagrius. In Africa natális sanctórum Mártyrum Saturníni Presbyteri, Datívi, Felícis, Ampélii et Sociórum, qui, in persecutióne Diocletiáni, cum ad Domínicum ex more celebrándum conveníssent, idcírco, a milítibus comprehénsi, sub Anolíno Procónsule passi sunt. In Africa, during the persecution of Diocletian, the birthday of the holy martyrs Saturninus, a priest, Davitus, Felix, Ampelius, and their companions. They had, as was their custom, assembled for Mass when they were seized by the soldiers and put to death, under the proconsul Anolinus. In Numídia commemorátio plurimórum sanctórum Mártyrum, qui, in eádem persecutióne comprehénsi sunt, et, cum juxta Imperatóris edíctum divínas Scriptúras trádere noluíssent, gravíssimis excruciáti sunt supplíciis, ac tandem occísi. In Numidia, in the same persecution, the commemoration of many holy martyrs, who, refusing after their apprehension to deliver the holy Scriptures in conformity with an imperial edict, were given over to most painful torments and slain. Romæ sancti Gregórii Papæ Secúndi, qui Leónis Isáurici impietáti acérrime réstitit, et sanctum Bonifátium ad prædicándum Evangélium in Germániam misit. At Rome, Pope St. Gregory II, who courageously withstood the impiety of Leo the Isaurian, and sent St. Boniface to preach the Gospel in Germany. Item Romæ sancti Paschális Papæ Primi, qui plúrima sanctórum Mártyrum córpora levávit e cryptis, éaque in divérsis Urbis Ecclésiis honorífice collocávit. Also at Rome, Pope St. Paschal I, who raised many bodies of the holy martyrs from their crypts, and buried them with honour in various churches in the city. Ravénnæ sancti Calóceri, Epíscopi et Confessóris. At Ravenna, St. Calocerus, bishop and confessor. Medioláni sancti Lázari Epíscopi. At Milan, St. Lazarus, bishop. Cápuæ sancti Castrénsis Epíscopi. At Capua, St. Castrensis, bishop. In Castro Nantoniénsi, in Gállia, sancti Severíni, qui fuit Abbas monastérii Agaunénsis, suísque précibus cultórem Dei, Regem Clodovéum, a diútina infirmitáte liberávit. At Chateau Landon in France, St. Severin, abbot of the monastery of Agaune, by whose prayers the Christian king Clovis was delivered from a long sickness. In Ægypto sancti Jonæ Mónachi, virtútibus clari. In Egypt, St. Jonas, a monk, eminent for his virtues. Viénnæ, in Gállia, Translátio córporis sancti Desidérii, Epíscopi et Mártyris, ex território Lugdunénsi, in quo ipse olim passus fúerat décimo Kaléndas Júnii. At Vienne in France, the translation of the body of St. Desiderius, bishop and martyr, from the district of Lyons where he had died on the 23rd of May.

Et álibi aliórum plurimórum sanctórum Mártyrum et Confessórum, atque sanctárum Vírginum. And elsewhere in divers places, many other holy martyrs, confessors, and holy virgins. R. Deo grátias. R. Thanks be to God.

Butler’s Lives of the Saints:

February XI.
SS. Saturninus, Dativus, and Others, Martyrs of Africa
St. Severinus, Abbot of Agaunum
St. Theodora, Empress

ORCCE Ordo: Dominica V Post Epiphaniam ~ Semiduplex Dominica minor; Commemoratio: S. Apollonia virgin and martyr

Nota Bene: 

Reports of Horrific Torture Of Children In Syria

Kenneth Bae returned to labor camp, sister pleads for his release #BringBackBae

Death In the Nuba Mountains

‘Proselytism’ Conviction of Convert from Islam in Morocco Overturned

Central African Republic: Soldiers Lynch Man Minutes After Presidential Address

Who are the Pakistani Taliban?

Grenade Attack on Phillippine Church

How Syrian Christians Are In Danger

Syria’s Catholic Leader Opposes Plans to Bring Refugees to the West

American Detained By North Korea- Free Kenneth Bae

Update: Pastor and Son Killed in Central African Republic as Religious Leaders Try to Keep Peace

Chaos In The Central African Republic, Making Sense & Asking Questions

Nigeria: Battered By Islamic Terror Group – Kill 52, Set 300 Houses Ablaze

Forgive or Forget: Survivors of genocide in the Holocaust, Rwanda & Cambodia

Michigan Mom says School Told Son Not to Bring Bible to School

Syria: Christian Stabbed with Crucifix, Decapitated

Quarto Idus Februárii. Luna.

Published on by TheOldRomanLeave a comment

romanmartyrology

Quarto Idus Februárii.  Luna. The Tenth Day of February. The Night of the Moon.

Apud montem Cassínum sanctæ Scholásticæ Vírginis, soróris sancti Benedícti Abbátis; qui ejus ánimam, instar colúmbæ, migrántem e córpore in cælum ascéndere vidit. On Monte Cassino, St. Scholastica, virgin, whose soul was seen by her brother, St. Benedict, abbot, leaving her body in the form of a dove, and ascending into heaven. Romæ sanctórum Mártyrum Zótici, Irenǽi, Hyacínthi et Amántii. At Rome, the holy martyrs Zoticus, Irenaeus, Hyacinth, and Amantius. Ibídem, via Lavicána, sanctórum decem mílitum Mártyrum. In the same place, on the Via Lavicana, ten holy soldiers, martyrs. Item Romæ, via Appia, sanctæ Sotéris, Vírginis et Mártyris; quæ (ut scribit sanctus Ambrósius), nóbili génere nata, paréntum Consulátus et Præfectúras ob Christum contémpsit. Hæc, jussa idolis immoláre, et non acquiéscens, gráviter et diutíssime álapis cæsa est; et, cum cétera quoque pœnárum génera vicísset, demum, percússa gládio, læta migrávit ad Sponsum. Also at Rome, on the Appian Way, St. Soteris, virgin and martyr, descended of a noble family, but as St. Ambrose mentions, for the love of Christ she set at naught the consular and other dignitaries of her people. Upon her refusal to sacrifice to the gods, she was for a long time cruelly scourged. She overcame these and various other torments, then was struck with the sword; and joyfully went to her heavenly spouse. In Campánia sancti Silváni, Epíscopi et Confessóris. In Campania, St. Silvanus, bishop and confessor. In Stábulo Rhodis, in territorio Senénsi, sancti Guiliélmi Eremítæ. At Malavalle, near Siena, St. William, hermit. In pago Rotomagénsi sanctæ Austrebértæ Vírginis, miráculis célebris. In the diocese of Rouen, St. Austreberta, virgin, renowned for miracles.

Et álibi aliórum plurimórum sanctórum Mártyrum et Confessórum, atque sanctárum Vírginum. And elsewhere in divers places, many other holy martyrs, confessors, and holy virgins. R. Deo grátias. R. Thanks be to God.

Butler’s Lives of the Saints:

February X.
St. Scholastica, Virgin
St. Soteris, Virgin and Martyr
St. William of Maleval, Hermit, and Institutor of the Order of Gulielmites
St. Erlulph, Bishop and Martyr, Native of Scotland

Nota Bene: ORCCE Ordo: Dominica V Post Epiphaniam ~ Semiduplex Dominica minor; Commemoratio: S. Apollonia virgin and martyr

‘Proselytism’ Conviction of Convert from Islam in Morocco Overturned

Central African Republic: Soldiers Lynch Man Minutes After Presidential Address

Who are the Pakistani Taliban?

Grenade Attack on Phillippine Church

How Syrian Christians Are In Danger

Syria’s Catholic Leader Opposes Plans to Bring Refugees to the West

American Detained By North Korea- Free Kenneth Bae

Update: Pastor and Son Killed in Central African Republic as Religious Leaders Try to Keep Peace

Chaos In The Central African Republic, Making Sense & Asking Questions

Nigeria: Battered By Islamic Terror Group – Kill 52, Set 300 Houses Ablaze

Forgive or Forget: Survivors of genocide in the Holocaust, Rwanda & Cambodia

Michigan Mom says School Told Son Not to Bring Bible to School

Syria: Christian Stabbed with Crucifix, Decapitated