Prídie Kaléndas Januárii. Luna.

romanmartyrology

Prídie Kaléndas Januárii.  Luna. The Thirty-First Day of December. The Night of the Moon.

Romæ natális sancti Silvéstri Primi, Papæ et Confessóris; qui Magnum Constantínum Imperatórem baptizávit, et Nicænam confirmávit Synodum, ac, multis áliis rebus sanctíssime gestis, quiévit in pace. At Rome, the birthday of Pope St. Sylvester I, confessor, who baptized Emperor Constantine the Great, and confirmed the council of Nicaea. After performing many other holy deeds, he rested in peace. Item Romæ, via Salária, in cœmetério Priscíllæ, sanctárum Mártyrum Donátæ, Paulínæ, Rústicæ, Nominándæ, Serótinæ, Hiláriæ et Sociárum. At Rome, on the Salarian Way, in the cemetery of Priscilla, the holy martyrs Donata, Paulina, Rustica, Nominanda, Serotina, Hilaria, and their companions. Apud Sénonas beatórum Sabiniáni Epíscopi, et Potentiáni; qui, a Pontífice Románo illuc ad prædicándum dirécti, confessiónis suæ martyrio eándem metrópolim illustrárunt. At Sens, the blessed Sabinian, bishop, and Potentian. They had been sent there to preach by the Roman Pontiff, and that metropolitan church was illustrated by their confession and martyrdom. Cátanæ, in Sicília, pássio sanctórum Stéphani, Pontiáni, Attali, Fabiáni, Cornélii, Sexti, Floris, Quinctiáni, Minervíni et Simpliciáni. At Catania in Sicily, the passion of the Saints Stephen, Pontian, Attalus, Fabian, Cornelius, Sextus, Flos, Quinctian, Minervinus, and Simplician. Apud Sénonas sanctæ Colúmbæ, Vírginis et Mártyris; quæ, igne superáto, in persecutióne Aureliáni Imperatóris, gládio cæsa est. At Sens, St. Columba, virgin and martyr, who, after having triumphed over fire, was beheaded during the persecution of Emperor Aurelian. Eódem die sancti Zótici, Presbyteri Románi; qui, Constantinópolim proféctus, illic alendórum orphanórum curam suscépit. On the same day, St. Zoticus, a Roman priest who went to Constantinople and undertook the work of caring for orphans. Ravénnæ sancti Barbatiáni Presbyteri et Confessóris. At Ravenna, St. Barbatian, priest and confessor. In pago Lalovésci, diœcésis Viennénsis, in Delphinátu, deposítio sancti Joánnis-Francísci Regis, Sacerdótis e Societáte Jesu et Confessóris, exímiæ in salúte animárum procuránda. At La Louvesc, in the diocese of Vienne in Dauphine, the death of St. John Francis Regis, priest of the Society of Jesus and confessor. He was a man of great love and patience in securing the salvation of souls. Rhætáriæ sancti Hermétis Exorcístæ. At Retiers, St. Hermes, exorcist. Lutétiæ Parisiórum sanctæ Catharínæ Labouré, Vírginis, e Societáte Puellárum Caritátis, quæ a Deípara Immaculáta singulári manifestatióne Sacri Numísmatis donáta, virtútibus et miráculis insígnis éxstitit, et a Pio Papa Duodécimo in sanctárum Vírginum númerum reláta est. At Paris, St. Catherine Labouré, Virgin, of the Order of the Daughters of Charity, who, having been presented with the Miraculous Medal in a special apparition of the Immaculate Mother of God, was remarkable for her virtue and her miracles.  Pope Pius XII added her to the number of holy Virgins. Eódem die sanctæ Melániæ junióris, quæ, cum viro suo Piniáno, ex urbe Roma discéssit, et Hierosólymam profécta est; ibíque ipsa inter féminas Deo sacras et vir inter Mónachos religiósam vitam exércuit, et ambo sancto fine quievérunt. Also, St. Melania the Younger, who withdrew from Rome with her husband Pinian, and went to Jerusalem, where both embraced the religious life, she among the women consecrated to God, and he among the monks, and ended their career in peace.

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:


St. Sylvester, Pope and Confessor

St. Columba, Virgin and Martyr


St. Melania the Younger

ORCCE Ordo: S. Silvestri Papae et Conf. ~ Duplex

Nota Bene: 

Christians Not Target of Baghdad Bombings, Iraqi Officials Say

Different faiths distributed Red Roses and Christmas Cards at the Churches of Rawalpindi and Islamabad city

Central African Republic Christians petition for President’s removal

Coptic Church Forced to Close Due to Violence From Muslim Brotherhood Backed Aggressors

Christian Syrian Refugees Denied Visas to West

Christians being attack on Christmas in Mideast

Reverend Peter Jasper Akinola RESCUED : Nigeria’s Anglican Leader Kidnapped by Gunmen

VIDEO reports: Iraq bombings target Christians on Christmas

Joy and fear for Christians in Sri Lanka

Egyptian Copts to celebrate Christmas ‘no matter the circumstance’

Décimo nono Kaléndas Januárii. Luna.

romanmartyrology

Décimo nono Kaléndas Januárii.  Luna. The Fourteenth Day of December.  The Night of the Moon.

Ubédæ, in Hispánia, natális sancti Joánnis a Cruce, Presbyteri et Confessóris, sanctæ Terésiæ in Carmelitárum reformatióne sócii; quem, a Summo Pontífice Benedícto Décimo tértio Sanctis adscríptum, Pius Papa Undécimus Doctórem universális Ecclésiæ declarávit. Ipsíus tamen festívitas ágitur octávo Kaléndas Decémbris.

At Ubeda in Spain, the birthday of St. John of the Cross, priest and confessor, and the companion of St. Teresa in the reform of the Carmelites. Pope Benedict XIII placed him on the list of the saints, and Pope Pius XI declared him a doctor of the universal Church. His feast, however, is observed on the 24th of November.

Rhemis, in Gállia, pássio sanctórum Nicásii Epíscopi, ac soróris Eutrópiæ Vírginis, et Sociórum Mártyrum; qui a bárbaris Ecclésiæ hóstibus cæsi sunt.

At Rheims in France, holy Bishop Nicasius, his sister, the virgin Eutropia, and their companions, martyrs, who were put to death by barbarians hostile to the Church.

Alexandríæ sanctórum Mártyrum Herónis, Arsénii, Isidóri, et Dióscori púeri. Horum tres primos Judex, in persecutióne Deciána, cum eos, váriis torméntis dilánians, pari armátos constántia vidéret, tradi ígnibus jubet; Dióscorus vero, multiplíciter flagellátus, divíno nutu ad consolatiónem fidélium dimíssus est.

At Alexandria, the holy martyrs Heron, Arsenius, Isidore, and the boy Dioscorus. In the persecution of Decius, the first three were subjected to all the refinements of cruelty by the judge, who, seeing them displaying the same constancy, ordered that they should be cast into the fire. But Dioscorus, after repeated scourgings, was set free by the intervention of Providence to the great consolation of the faithful.

Antiochíæ natális sanctórum Mártyrum Drusi, Zósimi et Theodóri.

At Antioch, the birthday of the holy martyrs Drusus, Zosimus, and Theodore.

Eódem die pássio sanctórum Justi et Abúndii, qui, sub Numeriáno Imperatóre et Olybrio Præside, conjécti in ignem, et, cum inde evasíssent illæsi, gládio percússi sunt.

On the same day, the martyrdom of Saints Justus and Abundius, who were cast into the flames in the time of Emperor Numerian and the governor Olybrius, but escaping all injury, they were smitten with the sword.

In Cypro natális beáti Spiridiónis Epíscopi, qui unus fuit ex illis Confessóribus, quos Galérius Maximiánus, dextro óculo effósso et sinístro póplite succíso, ad metálla damnáverat. Hic prophetíæ dono et signórum glória ínclitus fuit, et in Nicæno Concílio philósophum éthnicum, Christiánæ religióni insultántem, devícit et ad fidem perdúxit.

In the island of Cyprus, the birthday of blessed Spiridion, bishop. He was one of those confessors who were condemned by Galerius Maximian to labour in the mines, after suffering the loss of his right eye and cutting of the sinews of his left knee. This prelate was renowned for the gift of prophecy and glorious miracles, and in the Council of Nicea he confounded a heathen philosopher, who had insulted the Christian religion, and brought him to the faith.

Bérgomi sancti Viatóris, Epíscopi et Confessóris.

At Bergamo, St. Viator, bishop and confessor.

Papíæ sancti Pompéji Epíscopi.

At Pavia, St. Pompey, bishop.

Neápoli, in Campánia, sancti Agnélli Abbátis, virtúte miraculórum illústris, qui obséssam urbem sæpe visus est Crucis vexíllo ab hóstibus liberáre.

At Naples in Campania, St. Agnellus, abbot. Illustrious for the gift of miracles, he was often seen with the standard of the Cross, delivering the city besieged by enemies.

Medioláni sancti Matroniáni Eremítæ.

At Milan, St. Matronian, hermit.

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.

Butler’s Lives of the Saints:
St. Spiridion, Bishop and Confessor
SS. Nicasius, Ninth Archbishop of Rheims, and His Companions, Martyrs


Nota Bene: 

Syria: Orthodox bishop to press, ‘Christians take up arms’

VIDEO: On patrol with the French army in the CAR

Munich: Newspaper turns off comments after story about yet another “Allahu Akbar, Holy War” church smearing


Idibus Decémbris. Luna.

romanmartyrology

Idibus Decémbris.  Luna. The Thirteenth Day of December.  The Night of the Moon.

Syracúsis, in Sicília, natális sanctæ Lúciæ, Vírginis et Mártyris, in persecutióne Diocletiáni. Hæc nóbilis Virgo, cum eam lenónes, quibus, jubénte, Paschásio Consulári, trádita erat ut a pópulo castitáti ejus illuderétur, dúcere vellent, nullátenus per illos movéri pótuit, nec fúnibus ádditis, nec boum jugis plúrimis; deínde vero, picem, resínam ac fervens óleum nil læsa súperans, tandem, gládio in gútture percússa, martyrium consummávit.

At Syracuse in Sicily, the birthday of St. Lucy, virgin and martyr, in the persecution of Diocletian. By order of the proconsul Paschasius, she was delivered to profligates, that her chastity might be insulted by the people; but when they attempted to lead her away they were not able to move her, either with ropes or by means of many yoke of oxen. Then having hot pitch, resin, and burning oil applied to her body without being injured, she finally had a sword driven through her throat, and thus completed her martyrdom.

Molíni, in Gállia, item natális sanctæ Joánnæ-Francíscæ Frémiot de Chantal Víduæ, quæ Ordinis Sanctimoniálium Visitatiónis sanctæ Maríæ fuit Institútrix; ac, nobilitáte géneris, vitæ sanctimónia, quam in quadruplíci statu constánter duxit, et miraculórum dono illústris, a Cleménte Décimo tértio, Pontífice Máximo, in Sanctárum númerum reláta est. Sacrum ejus corpus Annésium, in Sabáudia, translátum fuit, et solémni pompa in prima sui Ordinis Ecclésia tumulátum. Ipsíus autem festum duodécimo Kaléndas Septémbris ab univérsa Ecclésia Clemens Papa Décimus quartus celebrári mandávit.

At Moulins in France, the birthday of St. Jane Frances Fremiot de Chantal, widow, foundress of the Nuns of the Visitation of St. Mary, distinguished by the nobility of her birth, by the holiness she constantly displayed in four different states of life, and by the gift of miracles. She was placed among the saints by Clement XIII. Her holy body was taken to Annecy in Savoy and buried with great pomp in the first church of her order. by order of Clement XIV, her feast is kept by the whole Church on the 21st of August.

In Arménia pássio sanctórum Mártyrum Eustrátii, Auxéntii, Eugénii, Mardárii et Oréstis, in persecutióne Diocletiáni. Ex ipsis Eustrátius, primum sub Lysia, deínde Sebáste, sub Agricoláo Præside, una cum Oréste exquisítis torméntis cruciátus, in fornácem missus réddidit spíritum; Oréstes autem, in stratum férreum ignítum pósitus, migrávit ad Dóminum; céteri apud Arábracos, sævíssimis agitáti supplíciis, sub Lysia Præside, diversímode martyrium consummárunt. Eórum córpora, póstea Romam transláta, in Ecclésia sancti Apollináris honorífice collocáta sunt.

In Armenia, the martyrdom of the holy martyrs Eustratius, Auxentius, Eugene, Mardarius, and Orestes, in the persecution of Diocletian. Eustratius was the first subjected alone to barbarous torments under Lysias. Then he was conducted to Sebaste, where he was tortured together with Orestes under the governor Agricolaus, and being cast into a furnace, yielded up his soul; but Orestes being laid on a bed of heated iron, rendered his soul unto God. The others were made to endure most grievous torments among the Arabraci, under the governor Lysias, and fulfilled their martyrdom in different ways. Their relics were afterwards carried to Rome and placed with due honours in the church of St. Apollinaris.

In Sulcitána ínsula, apud Sardíniam, pássio sancti Antíochi, sub Hadriáno Imperatóre.

At Sardinia, in the island of Sulci, the martyrdom of St. Antiochus, under Emperor Hadrian.

Cameráci, in Gállia, sancti Authbérti, Epíscopi et Confessóris.

At Cambrai in France, St. Aubert, bishop and confessor.

In pago Pontívo, in Gállia, sancti Judóci, Presbyteri et Confessóris.
In the parts of Ponthieu in France, St. Judoc, priest and confessor.

In território Argentoraténsi sanctæ Othíliæ Vírginis.
In the territory of Strasbourg, St. Otilie, 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.

Butler’s Lives of the Saints:
St. Lucy, Virgin and Martyr
St. Jodoc, or Josse, Confessor
St. Kenelm, King and Martyr
St. Aubert, Bishop of Cambray and Arras, Confessor
B. John Marinoni, Confessor
St. Othilia, Virgin and Abbess

ORCCE Ordo: S. Luciae Virginis et Martyris ~ Duplex; Commemoratio: Feria VI infra Hebdomadam II Adventus

Nota Bene: 

Syria: Orthodox bishop to press, ‘Christians take up arms’

VIDEO: On patrol with the French army in the CAR

Munich: Newspaper turns off comments after story about yet another “Allahu Akbar, Holy War” church smearing


Prídie Kaléndas Januárii. Luna.

romanmartyrology

Prídie Kaléndas Januárii.  Luna. The Thirty-First Day of December. The Night of the Moon.

Romæ natális sancti Silvéstri Primi, Papæ et Confessóris; qui Magnum Constantínum Imperatórem baptizávit, et Nicænam confirmávit Synodum, ac, multis áliis rebus sanctíssime gestis, quiévit in pace. At Rome, the birthday of Pope St. Sylvester I, confessor, who baptized Emperor Constantine the Great, and confirmed the council of Nicaea. After performing many other holy deeds, he rested in peace. Item Romæ, via Salária, in cœmetério Priscíllæ, sanctárum Mártyrum Donátæ, Paulínæ, Rústicæ, Nominándæ, Serótinæ, Hiláriæ et Sociárum. At Rome, on the Salarian Way, in the cemetery of Priscilla, the holy martyrs Donata, Paulina, Rustica, Nominanda, Serotina, Hilaria, and their companions. Apud Sénonas beatórum Sabiniáni Epíscopi, et Potentiáni; qui, a Pontífice Románo illuc ad prædicándum dirécti, confessiónis suæ martyrio eándem metrópolim illustrárunt. At Sens, the blessed Sabinian, bishop, and Potentian. They had been sent there to preach by the Roman Pontiff, and that metropolitan church was illustrated by their confession and martyrdom. Cátanæ, in Sicília, pássio sanctórum Stéphani, Pontiáni, Attali, Fabiáni, Cornélii, Sexti, Floris, Quinctiáni, Minervíni et Simpliciáni. At Catania in Sicily, the passion of the Saints Stephen, Pontian, Attalus, Fabian, Cornelius, Sextus, Flos, Quinctian, Minervinus, and Simplician. Apud Sénonas sanctæ Colúmbæ, Vírginis et Mártyris; quæ, igne superáto, in persecutióne Aureliáni Imperatóris, gládio cæsa est. At Sens, St. Columba, virgin and martyr, who, after having triumphed over fire, was beheaded during the persecution of Emperor Aurelian. Eódem die sancti Zótici, Presbyteri Románi; qui, Constantinópolim proféctus, illic alendórum orphanórum curam suscépit. On the same day, St. Zoticus, a Roman priest who went to Constantinople and undertook the work of caring for orphans. Ravénnæ sancti Barbatiáni Presbyteri et Confessóris. At Ravenna, St. Barbatian, priest and confessor. In pago Lalovésci, diœcésis Viennénsis, in Delphinátu, deposítio sancti Joánnis-Francísci Regis, Sacerdótis e Societáte Jesu et Confessóris, exímiæ in salúte animárum procuránda. At La Louvesc, in the diocese of Vienne in Dauphine, the death of St. John Francis Regis, priest of the Society of Jesus and confessor. He was a man of great love and patience in securing the salvation of souls. Rhætáriæ sancti Hermétis Exorcístæ. At Retiers, St. Hermes, exorcist. Lutétiæ Parisiórum sanctæ Catharínæ Labouré, Vírginis, e Societáte Puellárum Caritátis, quæ a Deípara Immaculáta singulári manifestatióne Sacri Numísmatis donáta, virtútibus et miráculis insígnis éxstitit, et a Pio Papa Duodécimo in sanctárum Vírginum númerum reláta est. At Paris, St. Catherine Labouré, Virgin, of the Order of the Daughters of Charity, who, having been presented with the Miraculous Medal in a special apparition of the Immaculate Mother of God, was remarkable for her virtue and her miracles.  Pope Pius XII added her to the number of holy Virgins. Eódem die sanctæ Melániæ junióris, quæ, cum viro suo Piniáno, ex urbe Roma discéssit, et Hierosólymam profécta est; ibíque ipsa inter féminas Deo sacras et vir inter Mónachos religiósam vitam exércuit, et ambo sancto fine quievérunt. Also, St. Melania the Younger, who withdrew from Rome with her husband Pinian, and went to Jerusalem, where both embraced the religious life, she among the women consecrated to God, and he among the monks, and ended their career in peace.

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:


St. Sylvester, Pope and Confessor

St. Columba, Virgin and Martyr

St. Melania the Younger

ORCCE Ordo: S. Silvestri Papae et Conf. ~ Duplex

Nota Bene: 

Christians Not Target of Baghdad Bombings, Iraqi Officials Say

Different faiths distributed Red Roses and Christmas Cards at the Churches of Rawalpindi and Islamabad city

Central African Republic Christians petition for President’s removal

Coptic Church Forced to Close Due to Violence From Muslim Brotherhood Backed Aggressors

Christian Syrian Refugees Denied Visas to West

Christians being attack on Christmas in Mideast

Reverend Peter Jasper Akinola RESCUED : Nigeria’s Anglican Leader Kidnapped by Gunmen

VIDEO reports: Iraq bombings target Christians on Christmas

Joy and fear for Christians in Sri Lanka

Egyptian Copts to celebrate Christmas ‘no matter the circumstance’

Décimo nono Kaléndas Januárii. Luna.

romanmartyrology

Décimo nono Kaléndas Januárii.  Luna. The Fourteenth Day of December.  The Night of the Moon.

Ubédæ, in Hispánia, natális sancti Joánnis a Cruce, Presbyteri et Confessóris, sanctæ Terésiæ in Carmelitárum reformatióne sócii; quem, a Summo Pontífice Benedícto Décimo tértio Sanctis adscríptum, Pius Papa Undécimus Doctórem universális Ecclésiæ declarávit. Ipsíus tamen festívitas ágitur octávo Kaléndas Decémbris.

At Ubeda in Spain, the birthday of St. John of the Cross, priest and confessor, and the companion of St. Teresa in the reform of the Carmelites. Pope Benedict XIII placed him on the list of the saints, and Pope Pius XI declared him a doctor of the universal Church. His feast, however, is observed on the 24th of November.

Rhemis, in Gállia, pássio sanctórum Nicásii Epíscopi, ac soróris Eutrópiæ Vírginis, et Sociórum Mártyrum; qui a bárbaris Ecclésiæ hóstibus cæsi sunt.

At Rheims in France, holy Bishop Nicasius, his sister, the virgin Eutropia, and their companions, martyrs, who were put to death by barbarians hostile to the Church.

Alexandríæ sanctórum Mártyrum Herónis, Arsénii, Isidóri, et Dióscori púeri. Horum tres primos Judex, in persecutióne Deciána, cum eos, váriis torméntis dilánians, pari armátos constántia vidéret, tradi ígnibus jubet; Dióscorus vero, multiplíciter flagellátus, divíno nutu ad consolatiónem fidélium dimíssus est.

At Alexandria, the holy martyrs Heron, Arsenius, Isidore, and the boy Dioscorus. In the persecution of Decius, the first three were subjected to all the refinements of cruelty by the judge, who, seeing them displaying the same constancy, ordered that they should be cast into the fire. But Dioscorus, after repeated scourgings, was set free by the intervention of Providence to the great consolation of the faithful.

Antiochíæ natális sanctórum Mártyrum Drusi, Zósimi et Theodóri.

At Antioch, the birthday of the holy martyrs Drusus, Zosimus, and Theodore.

Eódem die pássio sanctórum Justi et Abúndii, qui, sub Numeriáno Imperatóre et Olybrio Præside, conjécti in ignem, et, cum inde evasíssent illæsi, gládio percússi sunt.

On the same day, the martyrdom of Saints Justus and Abundius, who were cast into the flames in the time of Emperor Numerian and the governor Olybrius, but escaping all injury, they were smitten with the sword.

In Cypro natális beáti Spiridiónis Epíscopi, qui unus fuit ex illis Confessóribus, quos Galérius Maximiánus, dextro óculo effósso et sinístro póplite succíso, ad metálla damnáverat. Hic prophetíæ dono et signórum glória ínclitus fuit, et in Nicæno Concílio philósophum éthnicum, Christiánæ religióni insultántem, devícit et ad fidem perdúxit.

In the island of Cyprus, the birthday of blessed Spiridion, bishop. He was one of those confessors who were condemned by Galerius Maximian to labour in the mines, after suffering the loss of his right eye and cutting of the sinews of his left knee. This prelate was renowned for the gift of prophecy and glorious miracles, and in the Council of Nicea he confounded a heathen philosopher, who had insulted the Christian religion, and brought him to the faith.

Bérgomi sancti Viatóris, Epíscopi et Confessóris.

At Bergamo, St. Viator, bishop and confessor.

Papíæ sancti Pompéji Epíscopi.

At Pavia, St. Pompey, bishop.

Neápoli, in Campánia, sancti Agnélli Abbátis, virtúte miraculórum illústris, qui obséssam urbem sæpe visus est Crucis vexíllo ab hóstibus liberáre.

At Naples in Campania, St. Agnellus, abbot. Illustrious for the gift of miracles, he was often seen with the standard of the Cross, delivering the city besieged by enemies.

Medioláni sancti Matroniáni Eremítæ.

At Milan, St. Matronian, hermit.

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.

Butler’s Lives of the Saints:
St. Spiridion, Bishop and Confessor
SS. Nicasius, Ninth Archbishop of Rheims, and His Companions, Martyrs


Nota Bene: 

Syria: Orthodox bishop to press, ‘Christians take up arms’

VIDEO: On patrol with the French army in the CAR

Munich: Newspaper turns off comments after story about yet another “Allahu Akbar, Holy War” church smearing


Idibus Decémbris. Luna.

romanmartyrology

Idibus Decémbris.  Luna. The Thirteenth Day of December.  The Night of the Moon.

Syracúsis, in Sicília, natális sanctæ Lúciæ, Vírginis et Mártyris, in persecutióne Diocletiáni. Hæc nóbilis Virgo, cum eam lenónes, quibus, jubénte, Paschásio Consulári, trádita erat ut a pópulo castitáti ejus illuderétur, dúcere vellent, nullátenus per illos movéri pótuit, nec fúnibus ádditis, nec boum jugis plúrimis; deínde vero, picem, resínam ac fervens óleum nil læsa súperans, tandem, gládio in gútture percússa, martyrium consummávit.

At Syracuse in Sicily, the birthday of St. Lucy, virgin and martyr, in the persecution of Diocletian. By order of the proconsul Paschasius, she was delivered to profligates, that her chastity might be insulted by the people; but when they attempted to lead her away they were not able to move her, either with ropes or by means of many yoke of oxen. Then having hot pitch, resin, and burning oil applied to her body without being injured, she finally had a sword driven through her throat, and thus completed her martyrdom.

Molíni, in Gállia, item natális sanctæ Joánnæ-Francíscæ Frémiot de Chantal Víduæ, quæ Ordinis Sanctimoniálium Visitatiónis sanctæ Maríæ fuit Institútrix; ac, nobilitáte géneris, vitæ sanctimónia, quam in quadruplíci statu constánter duxit, et miraculórum dono illústris, a Cleménte Décimo tértio, Pontífice Máximo, in Sanctárum númerum reláta est. Sacrum ejus corpus Annésium, in Sabáudia, translátum fuit, et solémni pompa in prima sui Ordinis Ecclésia tumulátum. Ipsíus autem festum duodécimo Kaléndas Septémbris ab univérsa Ecclésia Clemens Papa Décimus quartus celebrári mandávit.

At Moulins in France, the birthday of St. Jane Frances Fremiot de Chantal, widow, foundress of the Nuns of the Visitation of St. Mary, distinguished by the nobility of her birth, by the holiness she constantly displayed in four different states of life, and by the gift of miracles. She was placed among the saints by Clement XIII. Her holy body was taken to Annecy in Savoy and buried with great pomp in the first church of her order. by order of Clement XIV, her feast is kept by the whole Church on the 21st of August.

In Arménia pássio sanctórum Mártyrum Eustrátii, Auxéntii, Eugénii, Mardárii et Oréstis, in persecutióne Diocletiáni. Ex ipsis Eustrátius, primum sub Lysia, deínde Sebáste, sub Agricoláo Præside, una cum Oréste exquisítis torméntis cruciátus, in fornácem missus réddidit spíritum; Oréstes autem, in stratum férreum ignítum pósitus, migrávit ad Dóminum; céteri apud Arábracos, sævíssimis agitáti supplíciis, sub Lysia Præside, diversímode martyrium consummárunt. Eórum córpora, póstea Romam transláta, in Ecclésia sancti Apollináris honorífice collocáta sunt.

In Armenia, the martyrdom of the holy martyrs Eustratius, Auxentius, Eugene, Mardarius, and Orestes, in the persecution of Diocletian. Eustratius was the first subjected alone to barbarous torments under Lysias. Then he was conducted to Sebaste, where he was tortured together with Orestes under the governor Agricolaus, and being cast into a furnace, yielded up his soul; but Orestes being laid on a bed of heated iron, rendered his soul unto God. The others were made to endure most grievous torments among the Arabraci, under the governor Lysias, and fulfilled their martyrdom in different ways. Their relics were afterwards carried to Rome and placed with due honours in the church of St. Apollinaris.

In Sulcitána ínsula, apud Sardíniam, pássio sancti Antíochi, sub Hadriáno Imperatóre.

At Sardinia, in the island of Sulci, the martyrdom of St. Antiochus, under Emperor Hadrian.

Cameráci, in Gállia, sancti Authbérti, Epíscopi et Confessóris.

At Cambrai in France, St. Aubert, bishop and confessor.

In pago Pontívo, in Gállia, sancti Judóci, Presbyteri et Confessóris.
In the parts of Ponthieu in France, St. Judoc, priest and confessor.

In território Argentoraténsi sanctæ Othíliæ Vírginis.
In the territory of Strasbourg, St. Otilie, 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.

Butler’s Lives of the Saints:
St. Lucy, Virgin and Martyr
St. Jodoc, or Josse, Confessor
St. Kenelm, King and Martyr
St. Aubert, Bishop of Cambray and Arras, Confessor
B. John Marinoni, Confessor
St. Othilia, Virgin and Abbess

ORCCE Ordo: S. Luciae Virginis et Martyris ~ Duplex; Commemoratio: Feria VI infra Hebdomadam II Adventus

Nota Bene: 

Syria: Orthodox bishop to press, ‘Christians take up arms’

VIDEO: On patrol with the French army in the CAR

Munich: Newspaper turns off comments after story about yet another “Allahu Akbar, Holy War” church smearing


Prídie Kaléndas Januárii. Luna.

romanmartyrology

Prídie Kaléndas Januárii.  Luna. The Thirty-First Day of December. The Night of the Moon.

Romæ natális sancti Silvéstri Primi, Papæ et Confessóris; qui Magnum Constantínum Imperatórem baptizávit, et Nicænam confirmávit Synodum, ac, multis áliis rebus sanctíssime gestis, quiévit in pace. At Rome, the birthday of Pope St. Sylvester I, confessor, who baptized Emperor Constantine the Great, and confirmed the council of Nicaea. After performing many other holy deeds, he rested in peace. Item Romæ, via Salária, in cœmetério Priscíllæ, sanctárum Mártyrum Donátæ, Paulínæ, Rústicæ, Nominándæ, Serótinæ, Hiláriæ et Sociárum. At Rome, on the Salarian Way, in the cemetery of Priscilla, the holy martyrs Donata, Paulina, Rustica, Nominanda, Serotina, Hilaria, and their companions. Apud Sénonas beatórum Sabiniáni Epíscopi, et Potentiáni; qui, a Pontífice Románo illuc ad prædicándum dirécti, confessiónis suæ martyrio eándem metrópolim illustrárunt. At Sens, the blessed Sabinian, bishop, and Potentian. They had been sent there to preach by the Roman Pontiff, and that metropolitan church was illustrated by their confession and martyrdom. Cátanæ, in Sicília, pássio sanctórum Stéphani, Pontiáni, Attali, Fabiáni, Cornélii, Sexti, Floris, Quinctiáni, Minervíni et Simpliciáni. At Catania in Sicily, the passion of the Saints Stephen, Pontian, Attalus, Fabian, Cornelius, Sextus, Flos, Quinctian, Minervinus, and Simplician. Apud Sénonas sanctæ Colúmbæ, Vírginis et Mártyris; quæ, igne superáto, in persecutióne Aureliáni Imperatóris, gládio cæsa est. At Sens, St. Columba, virgin and martyr, who, after having triumphed over fire, was beheaded during the persecution of Emperor Aurelian. Eódem die sancti Zótici, Presbyteri Románi; qui, Constantinópolim proféctus, illic alendórum orphanórum curam suscépit. On the same day, St. Zoticus, a Roman priest who went to Constantinople and undertook the work of caring for orphans. Ravénnæ sancti Barbatiáni Presbyteri et Confessóris. At Ravenna, St. Barbatian, priest and confessor. In pago Lalovésci, diœcésis Viennénsis, in Delphinátu, deposítio sancti Joánnis-Francísci Regis, Sacerdótis e Societáte Jesu et Confessóris, exímiæ in salúte animárum procuránda. At La Louvesc, in the diocese of Vienne in Dauphine, the death of St. John Francis Regis, priest of the Society of Jesus and confessor. He was a man of great love and patience in securing the salvation of souls. Rhætáriæ sancti Hermétis Exorcístæ. At Retiers, St. Hermes, exorcist. Lutétiæ Parisiórum sanctæ Catharínæ Labouré, Vírginis, e Societáte Puellárum Caritátis, quæ a Deípara Immaculáta singulári manifestatióne Sacri Numísmatis donáta, virtútibus et miráculis insígnis éxstitit, et a Pio Papa Duodécimo in sanctárum Vírginum númerum reláta est. At Paris, St. Catherine Labouré, Virgin, of the Order of the Daughters of Charity, who, having been presented with the Miraculous Medal in a special apparition of the Immaculate Mother of God, was remarkable for her virtue and her miracles.  Pope Pius XII added her to the number of holy Virgins. Eódem die sanctæ Melániæ junióris, quæ, cum viro suo Piniáno, ex urbe Roma discéssit, et Hierosólymam profécta est; ibíque ipsa inter féminas Deo sacras et vir inter Mónachos religiósam vitam exércuit, et ambo sancto fine quievérunt. Also, St. Melania the Younger, who withdrew from Rome with her husband Pinian, and went to Jerusalem, where both embraced the religious life, she among the women consecrated to God, and he among the monks, and ended their career in peace.

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:

St. Sylvester, Pope and Confessor

St. Columba, Virgin and Martyr

St. Melania the Younger

ORCCE Ordo: S. Silvestri Papae et Conf. ~ Duplex

Nota Bene: 

Christians Not Target of Baghdad Bombings, Iraqi Officials Say

Different faiths distributed Red Roses and Christmas Cards at the Churches of Rawalpindi and Islamabad city

Central African Republic Christians petition for President’s removal

Coptic Church Forced to Close Due to Violence From Muslim Brotherhood Backed Aggressors

Christian Syrian Refugees Denied Visas to West

Christians being attack on Christmas in Mideast

Reverend Peter Jasper Akinola RESCUED : Nigeria’s Anglican Leader Kidnapped by Gunmen

VIDEO reports: Iraq bombings target Christians on Christmas

Joy and fear for Christians in Sri Lanka

Egyptian Copts to celebrate Christmas ‘no matter the circumstance’

Décimo nono Kaléndas Januárii. Luna.

romanmartyrology

Décimo nono Kaléndas Januárii.  Luna. The Fourteenth Day of December.  The Night of the Moon.

Ubédæ, in Hispánia, natális sancti Joánnis a Cruce, Presbyteri et Confessóris, sanctæ Terésiæ in Carmelitárum reformatióne sócii; quem, a Summo Pontífice Benedícto Décimo tértio Sanctis adscríptum, Pius Papa Undécimus Doctórem universális Ecclésiæ declarávit. Ipsíus tamen festívitas ágitur octávo Kaléndas Decémbris.

At Ubeda in Spain, the birthday of St. John of the Cross, priest and confessor, and the companion of St. Teresa in the reform of the Carmelites. Pope Benedict XIII placed him on the list of the saints, and Pope Pius XI declared him a doctor of the universal Church. His feast, however, is observed on the 24th of November.

Rhemis, in Gállia, pássio sanctórum Nicásii Epíscopi, ac soróris Eutrópiæ Vírginis, et Sociórum Mártyrum; qui a bárbaris Ecclésiæ hóstibus cæsi sunt.

At Rheims in France, holy Bishop Nicasius, his sister, the virgin Eutropia, and their companions, martyrs, who were put to death by barbarians hostile to the Church.

Alexandríæ sanctórum Mártyrum Herónis, Arsénii, Isidóri, et Dióscori púeri. Horum tres primos Judex, in persecutióne Deciána, cum eos, váriis torméntis dilánians, pari armátos constántia vidéret, tradi ígnibus jubet; Dióscorus vero, multiplíciter flagellátus, divíno nutu ad consolatiónem fidélium dimíssus est.

At Alexandria, the holy martyrs Heron, Arsenius, Isidore, and the boy Dioscorus. In the persecution of Decius, the first three were subjected to all the refinements of cruelty by the judge, who, seeing them displaying the same constancy, ordered that they should be cast into the fire. But Dioscorus, after repeated scourgings, was set free by the intervention of Providence to the great consolation of the faithful.

Antiochíæ natális sanctórum Mártyrum Drusi, Zósimi et Theodóri.

At Antioch, the birthday of the holy martyrs Drusus, Zosimus, and Theodore.

Eódem die pássio sanctórum Justi et Abúndii, qui, sub Numeriáno Imperatóre et Olybrio Præside, conjécti in ignem, et, cum inde evasíssent illæsi, gládio percússi sunt.

On the same day, the martyrdom of Saints Justus and Abundius, who were cast into the flames in the time of Emperor Numerian and the governor Olybrius, but escaping all injury, they were smitten with the sword.

In Cypro natális beáti Spiridiónis Epíscopi, qui unus fuit ex illis Confessóribus, quos Galérius Maximiánus, dextro óculo effósso et sinístro póplite succíso, ad metálla damnáverat. Hic prophetíæ dono et signórum glória ínclitus fuit, et in Nicæno Concílio philósophum éthnicum, Christiánæ religióni insultántem, devícit et ad fidem perdúxit.

In the island of Cyprus, the birthday of blessed Spiridion, bishop. He was one of those confessors who were condemned by Galerius Maximian to labour in the mines, after suffering the loss of his right eye and cutting of the sinews of his left knee. This prelate was renowned for the gift of prophecy and glorious miracles, and in the Council of Nicea he confounded a heathen philosopher, who had insulted the Christian religion, and brought him to the faith.

Bérgomi sancti Viatóris, Epíscopi et Confessóris.

At Bergamo, St. Viator, bishop and confessor.

Papíæ sancti Pompéji Epíscopi.

At Pavia, St. Pompey, bishop.

Neápoli, in Campánia, sancti Agnélli Abbátis, virtúte miraculórum illústris, qui obséssam urbem sæpe visus est Crucis vexíllo ab hóstibus liberáre.

At Naples in Campania, St. Agnellus, abbot. Illustrious for the gift of miracles, he was often seen with the standard of the Cross, delivering the city besieged by enemies.

Medioláni sancti Matroniáni Eremítæ.

At Milan, St. Matronian, hermit.

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.

Butler’s Lives of the Saints:
St. Spiridion, Bishop and Confessor
SS. Nicasius, Ninth Archbishop of Rheims, and His Companions, Martyrs


Nota Bene: 

Syria: Orthodox bishop to press, ‘Christians take up arms’

VIDEO: On patrol with the French army in the CAR

Munich: Newspaper turns off comments after story about yet another “Allahu Akbar, Holy War” church smearing


Idibus Decémbris. Luna.

romanmartyrology

Idibus Decémbris.  Luna. The Thirteenth Day of December.  The Night of the Moon.

Syracúsis, in Sicília, natális sanctæ Lúciæ, Vírginis et Mártyris, in persecutióne Diocletiáni. Hæc nóbilis Virgo, cum eam lenónes, quibus, jubénte, Paschásio Consulári, trádita erat ut a pópulo castitáti ejus illuderétur, dúcere vellent, nullátenus per illos movéri pótuit, nec fúnibus ádditis, nec boum jugis plúrimis; deínde vero, picem, resínam ac fervens óleum nil læsa súperans, tandem, gládio in gútture percússa, martyrium consummávit.

At Syracuse in Sicily, the birthday of St. Lucy, virgin and martyr, in the persecution of Diocletian. By order of the proconsul Paschasius, she was delivered to profligates, that her chastity might be insulted by the people; but when they attempted to lead her away they were not able to move her, either with ropes or by means of many yoke of oxen. Then having hot pitch, resin, and burning oil applied to her body without being injured, she finally had a sword driven through her throat, and thus completed her martyrdom.

Molíni, in Gállia, item natális sanctæ Joánnæ-Francíscæ Frémiot de Chantal Víduæ, quæ Ordinis Sanctimoniálium Visitatiónis sanctæ Maríæ fuit Institútrix; ac, nobilitáte géneris, vitæ sanctimónia, quam in quadruplíci statu constánter duxit, et miraculórum dono illústris, a Cleménte Décimo tértio, Pontífice Máximo, in Sanctárum númerum reláta est. Sacrum ejus corpus Annésium, in Sabáudia, translátum fuit, et solémni pompa in prima sui Ordinis Ecclésia tumulátum. Ipsíus autem festum duodécimo Kaléndas Septémbris ab univérsa Ecclésia Clemens Papa Décimus quartus celebrári mandávit.

At Moulins in France, the birthday of St. Jane Frances Fremiot de Chantal, widow, foundress of the Nuns of the Visitation of St. Mary, distinguished by the nobility of her birth, by the holiness she constantly displayed in four different states of life, and by the gift of miracles. She was placed among the saints by Clement XIII. Her holy body was taken to Annecy in Savoy and buried with great pomp in the first church of her order. by order of Clement XIV, her feast is kept by the whole Church on the 21st of August.

In Arménia pássio sanctórum Mártyrum Eustrátii, Auxéntii, Eugénii, Mardárii et Oréstis, in persecutióne Diocletiáni. Ex ipsis Eustrátius, primum sub Lysia, deínde Sebáste, sub Agricoláo Præside, una cum Oréste exquisítis torméntis cruciátus, in fornácem missus réddidit spíritum; Oréstes autem, in stratum férreum ignítum pósitus, migrávit ad Dóminum; céteri apud Arábracos, sævíssimis agitáti supplíciis, sub Lysia Præside, diversímode martyrium consummárunt. Eórum córpora, póstea Romam transláta, in Ecclésia sancti Apollináris honorífice collocáta sunt.

In Armenia, the martyrdom of the holy martyrs Eustratius, Auxentius, Eugene, Mardarius, and Orestes, in the persecution of Diocletian. Eustratius was the first subjected alone to barbarous torments under Lysias. Then he was conducted to Sebaste, where he was tortured together with Orestes under the governor Agricolaus, and being cast into a furnace, yielded up his soul; but Orestes being laid on a bed of heated iron, rendered his soul unto God. The others were made to endure most grievous torments among the Arabraci, under the governor Lysias, and fulfilled their martyrdom in different ways. Their relics were afterwards carried to Rome and placed with due honours in the church of St. Apollinaris.

In Sulcitána ínsula, apud Sardíniam, pássio sancti Antíochi, sub Hadriáno Imperatóre.

At Sardinia, in the island of Sulci, the martyrdom of St. Antiochus, under Emperor Hadrian.

Cameráci, in Gállia, sancti Authbérti, Epíscopi et Confessóris.

At Cambrai in France, St. Aubert, bishop and confessor.

In pago Pontívo, in Gállia, sancti Judóci, Presbyteri et Confessóris.
In the parts of Ponthieu in France, St. Judoc, priest and confessor.

In território Argentoraténsi sanctæ Othíliæ Vírginis.
In the territory of Strasbourg, St. Otilie, 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.

Butler’s Lives of the Saints:
St. Lucy, Virgin and Martyr
St. Jodoc, or Josse, Confessor
St. Kenelm, King and Martyr
St. Aubert, Bishop of Cambray and Arras, Confessor
B. John Marinoni, Confessor
St. Othilia, Virgin and Abbess

ORCCE Ordo: S. Luciae Virginis et Martyris ~ Duplex; Commemoratio: Feria VI infra Hebdomadam II Adventus

Nota Bene: 

Syria: Orthodox bishop to press, ‘Christians take up arms’

VIDEO: On patrol with the French army in the CAR

Munich: Newspaper turns off comments after story about yet another “Allahu Akbar, Holy War” church smearing


Prídie Kaléndas Januárii. Luna.

romanmartyrology

Prídie Kaléndas Januárii.  Luna. The Thirty-First Day of December. The Night of the Moon.

Romæ natális sancti Silvéstri Primi, Papæ et Confessóris; qui Magnum Constantínum Imperatórem baptizávit, et Nicænam confirmávit Synodum, ac, multis áliis rebus sanctíssime gestis, quiévit in pace. At Rome, the birthday of Pope St. Sylvester I, confessor, who baptized Emperor Constantine the Great, and confirmed the council of Nicaea. After performing many other holy deeds, he rested in peace. Item Romæ, via Salária, in cœmetério Priscíllæ, sanctárum Mártyrum Donátæ, Paulínæ, Rústicæ, Nominándæ, Serótinæ, Hiláriæ et Sociárum. At Rome, on the Salarian Way, in the cemetery of Priscilla, the holy martyrs Donata, Paulina, Rustica, Nominanda, Serotina, Hilaria, and their companions. Apud Sénonas beatórum Sabiniáni Epíscopi, et Potentiáni; qui, a Pontífice Románo illuc ad prædicándum dirécti, confessiónis suæ martyrio eándem metrópolim illustrárunt. At Sens, the blessed Sabinian, bishop, and Potentian. They had been sent there to preach by the Roman Pontiff, and that metropolitan church was illustrated by their confession and martyrdom. Cátanæ, in Sicília, pássio sanctórum Stéphani, Pontiáni, Attali, Fabiáni, Cornélii, Sexti, Floris, Quinctiáni, Minervíni et Simpliciáni. At Catania in Sicily, the passion of the Saints Stephen, Pontian, Attalus, Fabian, Cornelius, Sextus, Flos, Quinctian, Minervinus, and Simplician. Apud Sénonas sanctæ Colúmbæ, Vírginis et Mártyris; quæ, igne superáto, in persecutióne Aureliáni Imperatóris, gládio cæsa est. At Sens, St. Columba, virgin and martyr, who, after having triumphed over fire, was beheaded during the persecution of Emperor Aurelian. Eódem die sancti Zótici, Presbyteri Románi; qui, Constantinópolim proféctus, illic alendórum orphanórum curam suscépit. On the same day, St. Zoticus, a Roman priest who went to Constantinople and undertook the work of caring for orphans. Ravénnæ sancti Barbatiáni Presbyteri et Confessóris. At Ravenna, St. Barbatian, priest and confessor. In pago Lalovésci, diœcésis Viennénsis, in Delphinátu, deposítio sancti Joánnis-Francísci Regis, Sacerdótis e Societáte Jesu et Confessóris, exímiæ in salúte animárum procuránda. At La Louvesc, in the diocese of Vienne in Dauphine, the death of St. John Francis Regis, priest of the Society of Jesus and confessor. He was a man of great love and patience in securing the salvation of souls. Rhætáriæ sancti Hermétis Exorcístæ. At Retiers, St. Hermes, exorcist. Lutétiæ Parisiórum sanctæ Catharínæ Labouré, Vírginis, e Societáte Puellárum Caritátis, quæ a Deípara Immaculáta singulári manifestatióne Sacri Numísmatis donáta, virtútibus et miráculis insígnis éxstitit, et a Pio Papa Duodécimo in sanctárum Vírginum númerum reláta est. At Paris, St. Catherine Labouré, Virgin, of the Order of the Daughters of Charity, who, having been presented with the Miraculous Medal in a special apparition of the Immaculate Mother of God, was remarkable for her virtue and her miracles.  Pope Pius XII added her to the number of holy Virgins. Eódem die sanctæ Melániæ junióris, quæ, cum viro suo Piniáno, ex urbe Roma discéssit, et Hierosólymam profécta est; ibíque ipsa inter féminas Deo sacras et vir inter Mónachos religiósam vitam exércuit, et ambo sancto fine quievérunt. Also, St. Melania the Younger, who withdrew from Rome with her husband Pinian, and went to Jerusalem, where both embraced the religious life, she among the women consecrated to God, and he among the monks, and ended their career in peace.

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:
St. Sylvester, Pope and Confessor
St. Columba, Virgin and Martyr
St. Melania the Younger

ORCCE Ordo: S. Silvestri Papae et Conf. ~ Duplex

Nota Bene: 

Christians Not Target of Baghdad Bombings, Iraqi Officials Say

Different faiths distributed Red Roses and Christmas Cards at the Churches of Rawalpindi and Islamabad city

Central African Republic Christians petition for President’s removal

Coptic Church Forced to Close Due to Violence From Muslim Brotherhood Backed Aggressors

Christian Syrian Refugees Denied Visas to West

Christians being attack on Christmas in Mideast

Reverend Peter Jasper Akinola RESCUED : Nigeria’s Anglican Leader Kidnapped by Gunmen

VIDEO reports: Iraq bombings target Christians on Christmas

Joy and fear for Christians in Sri Lanka

Egyptian Copts to celebrate Christmas ‘no matter the circumstance’