St Juliana Falconieri

What sets many Saints apart is their love of charity towards all and their at times severe penances towards themselves, such is this case with the young lady, Juliana Falconieri.

Juliana Falconieri was born in the year 1270 in the city of Florence into the Nobility. Juliana would also not be the only Saint to be born into the Falconieri family her uncle also became a Saint his name being Alexis Falconieri, not an unusual occurrence in the days when living the Catholic Faith meant something.

Juliana was lucky in that her parents were deeply devout and instilled into their beloved daughter a love of the Catholic Church and Jesus in the Blessed Sacrament. Her devout parents in a spirit of thanksgiving towards God financed the building of the Church of the Annunciation in Florence in appreciation of how much God had blessed this Holy couple.

Juliana from a very young age showed little joy for trivial pursuits and had absolutely no time for dances and what she considered foolish past-times, her heart was totally dedicated to God and God alone! This did not make her a dour or morbid personality Juliana simply knew what her priorities in life were and lived them with joy and a deep knowledge of what was pleasing to God and it was in pleasing God that she gained her greatest joy and happiness.

Unfortunately Juliana's parents were both elderly when she was born and at a young age Juliana's beloved father died and so Juliana was raised by her mother, Riguardata with the help of her uncle Alexis. From a very young age Juliana's deepest desire was to serve God as a Religious, and though her mother was deeply devout she did not wish to be left alone and so was against her daughter leaving her to join an Order. As Juliana was an obedient child, she did not wish to disobey her beloved mother and so a compromise was reached where Juliana could join a Third Order the Religious Order chosen was the Servites.

After taking instructions from her uncle Juliana was given her Habit to wear as a Third Order Servite and was able to live at home for many years while putting into practice the Charism of the Servite Order. Juliana and her mother were deeply devoted to one another as both loved their faith deeply so it saddened Juliana deeply when her mother died, she had lost not only her mother but also one of her closest friends. The death of her mother allowed Juliana to leave her former home and to live in another house where the memories were not so heartrending.

As she lived the Charism of the Servite Order, Juliana's obvious holiness came to the attention of many who knew of her and had heard about her total devotion to God and the Catholic Church. Soon more women would join her in her new home where Juliana started the Third Order of Servites, she and her lady friends began to wear a Habit that was similar to the male equivalent of the Servite Order.

Juliana and her fellow sisters practiced works of charity within their community and lived a prayerful life within the home as they dedicated their lives to God and lived out the message of the Gospels. Though Juliana had a deep love of the poor and tried her best to alleviate their sufferings, she intensified her own mortifications sometimes at the expense of her own health. Juliana and her fellow Servite sisters became well renowned for their love and service to the poorest of the poor and the love that they took in treating all as if they were royalty, this made Juliana greatly loved and admired for her virtue and charity towards all. It is also one of the reasons why she remained the Director of her Servite Third Order community for nearly 35 years, an astounding feat.

Due to her severe penances Juliana's health became severely impaired and caused her many stomach ailments later in life. This deeply affected her in that due to her inability to retain food she could no longer receive the Eucharist, something that grieved her deeply. A compromise was reached when close to death Juliana requested that the Priest lay the Eucharist on her heart, this he did. The Priest was astonished when the Host disappeared as were the rest of her community.

Upon her death and as she was being prepared for burial there was found to be the image of the Eucharist upon her heart.

Juliana Falconieri died in 1341.

Saint Juliana Falconieri was canonized in the year 1737 by Pope Clement XII.

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Saint Hannibal Di Francia

In an age where many countries are feeling the shortage of Priests the Church needs more men like Hannibal Di Francia.

Hannibal Di Francia, was born in the year 1851 in Messina Sicily. He was fortunate to be born into a wealthy and socially prominent family, but this did not lead Hannibal to have a haughty or arrogant view on life. Unfortunately for Hannibal his father died when he was very young his mother Anna Di Francia, a noble woman by birth sent Hannibal at only age 7 to boarding school, this would help open Hannibal's eyes to the world beyond his own home environment.

Being of a kind disposition he was shocked at the actions of his fellow boarders and their harsh attitude towards the poor in their area. One day a beggar was able to gain access to the school cafeteria where he then begged for some sustenance, many of the children were cruel and made fun of this poor man, little Hannibal though was horrified to see such poverty. He was even more horrified to witness many of his friends tease and torment this poor beggar, finally Hannibal could stand it no longer and he went forward to give the poor man some food.

Hannibal from a very early age showed a great love for the Eucharist and with his inherent humility and meekness of character he was allowed to receive Communion much earlier than other children. This love for Jesus in the Eucharist would hold sway over his entire life and also the need to promote Priestly vocations, truly he was a boy ahead of his times. When Hannibal was 15 his boarding school had to close down and so Hannibal undertook private instructions at home where he thrived on learning everything he could.

Things would change for Hannibal one day as he prayed in front of the Blessed Sacrament and felt God calling him to the Priesthood. During this time in prayer these words took root in this young man's heart and mind, "Ask the Lord of the harvest to sent out laborers to gather his harvest." These words would prompt Hannibal in his mission to promote the Priestly vocation to all he could. Through this insight Hannibal was able to tap into what would become a crucial need in the generations that would follow, he surely is a prophet for these times.

Once Hannibal had completed his studies in theology he was Ordained into the Priesthood in the year 1878. Though Hannibal did not have to struggle financially still he never forgot that poor beggar who had come to his boarding school and upon meeting a blind beggar Francesco Zancone, he was able to see for himself the sad plight of many of his fellow citizens, this sight affected Fr. Hannibal profoundly. Being fatherless himself gave Hannibal a compassionate empathy towards other children who were also orphaned at young ages.

The plight of the poor and the homeless so deeply touched Fr. Hannibal that he decided to make his home alongside the disenfranchised of society after gaining the Bishops approval for this move, he set out to do all he could to try and alleviate many of the sufferings he saw within the poor community.

At first the poor in his region were suspicious of this Priest who though his intentions were good many felt that he would lack the stamina to be successful and so some paid scant regard to this Priest and what they assumed was his naivety when dealing with the truly impoverished. This did not put Fr. Hannibal off one bit and he set out not to prove these people wrong but to simply be a shepherd to his flock and bring them the Good News.

As he walked the streets he could not fail to see the miserable conditions that many children were left to wallow in and one child in particular touched his heart. The poor boy was mentally retarded and was being misused and abused by some around him, Fr. Hannibal could not stand to see such suffering and so brought the young boy home with him. After feeding him a wholesome meal and giving the poor boy a bath, Fr. Hannibal made him a comfortable bed and after prayers he gently said goodnight to the poor boy. When gazing at his face, suddenly the boy's features turned into the face of Jesus, Fr. Hannibal was deeply moved, and even more determined to help these children in a more meaningful and practical way.

This would set the course for the foreseeable future as Fr. Hannibal began to instruct the children of his area, firstly by starting day schools and then with orphanages for both girls and boys. This total devotion to the poor also brought with it controversy as many of his former social standing didn't understand his love for the poor and so questioned why this Priest was so dedicated to what they considered the 'dregs of society', this questioning didn't stop Fr. Hannibal who also had the support of the Bishop and some fellow Priests. It was during this time that Fr. Hannibal wrote this poem:

So bread upon the table might not lack,

I brave the cold, the dripping sweat on back…

Oh, here it is today the food my children need;

Tomorrow's dole our Father sure will speed.

I've often knocked on doors, a scant welcome bidden

My sentence stiff has scarce been hidden:

"Beware of him, the pest, he's lost his mind.

Now let him suffer fate unkind!"

Discern my martyrdom, my flaming core;

No father loved his children more…

For you I God and man implore!

As the good works of Fr. Hannibal progressed he did not forget his first love that of promoting the Priesthood and this through prayer, for Fr. Hannibal understood the power of prayer most especially for Religious vocations. With this in mind Fr. Hannibal began a new Religious Order called 'The Daughters of Divine Zeal' at a later date he also founded the 'Rogationists' both of which were approved in the year 1926. With this mission for Priests in mind Fr. Hannibal started several projects one of them being a periodical called 'God and Neighbour' so that all could enjoin him in praying for vocations and promoting the Priesthood.

While doing all this work Fr. Hannibal was also one of the Priests that Luisa Piccarreta had chosen for her spiritual director, this would bring more controversy as many misunderstood the meaning of Luisa's particular calling. The Catholic Church is still investigating the message given to this noble soul, Luisa Piccarreta.

As Fr. Hannibal undertook all this work with holy zeal many of his contemporaries were already calling him the 'saintly Priest', Fr. Hannibal simply got on with the work God had called him to do with humility and a deep sense of charity towards all even those who were antagonistic towards his various fields of work.

Throughout his entire life Hannibal Di Francia always kept his eyes on his goal that of doing God's Will rather than his own. He also never lost sight of his particular mission that of spreading the love of the Priesthood to all who would listen. This world so needs more Priests of Fr. Hannibal's calibre.

Father Hannibal Di Francia died in 1927.

Saint Hannibal Di Francia was canonized in the year 2004 by Pope John Paul II.

Some Quotes:

"What are these few orphans we attend to, these few people we bring the good news to, compared to the millions who are lost and abandoned as sheep without a shepherd? I looked for an answer and I found a complete one in the words of Jesus: 'Ask the Lord of the harvest to send out laborers to gather his harvest'. I concluded then that I had found the secret key to all good works and to the salvation of all souls".

"From my early youth I have committed myself to that Holy Word of the Gospel: ‘Rogate ergo...' From my small Institutes an unceasing daily prayer is raised by the orphans, the poor, the priests and the consecrated virgins, to the most Sacred Hearts of Jesus and Mary, to Saint Joseph and the Apostles, that they may abundantly provide the Church with holy and chosen priests and with evangelical workers for the spiritual harvest of souls."

"The entire Church must formally pray for [vocations] because the purpose of the prayer to gain vocations must concern all the faithful, every Christian who has at heart the good of souls and, in a particular way, the Bishops who are the shepherds of the spiritual flock and to whom souls are entrusted. They are the living Apostles of Jesus Christ today."

Peace of Christ to ALL

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SAINT JOHN BAPTIST DE LA SALLE

John started out in life much luckier than many of his compatriots and fellow French Saints. He was born in the year 1651 to wealthy parents, Louis and Nicolle de la Salle. His father had hopes that his intelligent son would pursue a career in law but John was of a decisive nature and had already decided to become a Priest.

After studying at various academy's where he impressed many of his teachers, John eventually gained a place at the Sorbonne where he studied theology and also excelled in that field. Though not all compliments were given because of his high intellect for John also had a pleasing personality which sought no fame for himself but instead sought to help others. John's obvious piety was witnessed by many of his teachers and fellow students, who all had high praise for this young man who wished to serve God all his life.

Grief though would touch the life of John when both his parents died within a year of each other, which brought much heartache to John who had dearly loved both his parents. This was a difficult time for John as he grappled with his own grief and tried to the best of his ability to provide for his younger siblings. It also meant putting his studies on hold as he took the reigns of the household till his brothers and sisters were able to take care of themselves.

Though he was immersed in the domestic activities of his home John did not forget his first love which was to serve God. So after speaking with his spiritual advisor Nicolas Roland, John was ordained as a subdeacon at Cambrai. During this time between looking after his family and his parish commitments John also did not forget the poor and sought out ways to help them in a practical manner.

John eventually fulfilled his longed for wish to become a Priest, he was ordained in the year 1678 and gained his Doctorate in theology in 1680. Though Father John wished to serve God as any other devoted Priest through the care of his parish, God had other plans for this true son of the Church. It so happened that he came across an enterprise where a few good men were trying to teach literacy to young boys who had been born in rough circumstances. One of the leaders of these young boys was Adrien Nyel who though he did his best his gift was in interacting with his students and not in the organizational needs that this little group desperately needed in order to succeed.

Father John first watched this group of boys and a few good men from a distance, rendering help when needed. Gradually though it dawned on Father John that the boys needed a strong figure head, one who could make this ideal of educating poor young boys into a movement. Father John even though he was very busy decided with his usual decisive nature to bring the boys back to his own house so they could be properly supervised, not everyone was thrilled with this idea, as questions were raised about the young boys moral characters. This love that grew within Father John for these poor boys would soon become a matter of principle as he grappled with the consequences of truly helping these young men gain a good future for themselves whilst regaining their lost dignity.

This great man of the Church though was never one to back away from a challenge and so Father John took the extraordinary step of leaving behind his comfortable lifestyle, so that he could become one with the poor rather than continue to remain aloof from them. Father John realised that in order to truly gain the respect of these boys he had to live with them in order to teach them a better way of life. This brought much contention within his own family and circle of friends, and also much heartache as many of his family disowned him through this act of true and authentic charity of spirit displayed by Father John.

Due to his love of these poor boys Father John endured the estrangement from his family, friends and some of his fellow Priests, he even faced prison when the authorities raised objections to his teaching techniques. It was just as well that Father John De La Salle was resolute of nature and not one to give up easily no matter how many hurdles were thrown at him, he would rise above them all. This was not done from a spirit of pride in himself but of a self giving to those who needed him most, the poor.

Father John would face many obstacles on the path he had chosen and he also faced betrayal from those he had trusted in founding this institute to educate the poor boys in France which was named, 'Brothers of the Christian Schools'. He struggled against many adversaries many of whom from within the Catholic Church, but always Father John kept his eyes on Jesus and did not waver in his attempts to form a school to help the young youth of France find better lives for themselves.

When it came to teaching the boys Father John would prove to be an innovator and with a small group of like minded men, he changed the face of Christian education as it had been into a more modern and more practical way of educating his young boys to equip them better when they left his schools and began lives of their own.

Though Father John faced much adversity he never allowed this to embitter him even when friends betrayed his trust, still Father John focused on Jesus and to Father John God truly did suffice.

Many thought that Father John gave up all the glories and honors that could have been his for the taking....but the one thing that Father John longed for and the only words that Father John wanted to hear were....'well done good and faithful servant'.

Father John Baptist de La Salle died in the year 1719.

Saint John Baptist de La Salle was canonized in the year 1900 by Pope Leo XIII.

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Saint John of God

John de Dios was born of a humble couple in the year 1495, though his parents were devout they were also poor. The young John was very taken with stories of adventures far from his native land of Portugal so from a young age John decided to run away from home and explore the excitements of the wider world. This would bring much sorrow to his parents most especially his mother who died not long after John left home, but she was comforted when an Angel appeared to her and told her that though her son would suffer adversity he would lead a good and holy life. John's mother then died a peaceful death.

Upon running away it didn't take John long to have regrets over his actions, for John at first did not find the expected excitement and instead worked as a shepherd in the fields of Spain. Through his hard work he was able to gain the trust of his employer who offered John his daughter to marry, but John declined the offer, as he felt God calling him to another direction entirely. Once he refused the offer of marriage John felt a little uncomfortable so he stowed away in the middle of the night and decided to join the Spanish army in their fight against France. John roamed about for many years not really knowing what to do with his life as he served in the army, and though he was a good soldier and joined in with the antics of his fellow soldiers in the end it failed to deliver the fulfillment that he longed for. Because of Johns inner wranglings his fellow compatriots became annoyed and so tricked John into leaving his post thereby angering the authorities and John subsequently was discharged from serving with them.

Through this internal dialogue within himself John would prove himself to be no ordinary man as he repented deeply of the wrongs he had done in his life most especially the pain he had caused his parents. He decided that he would put things right between himself and his parents and so returned to his native homeland. Upon arriving though John was sorrowful unto death when he discovered that both of his parents had died during his absence this truly tore at the heart of this repentant man and he wept profusely that it was now too late to make amends to his parents. Once again this got John thinking and he decided right there and then to never let an opportunity to do good pass him by, he may have let down his parents, his former employer and the army but John would not let down God.

He returned to work as a shepherd for a short time and it was when he heard of the war with the Moslems that once again John's impetuous heart was set afire and he decided to join those who were opposing this mighty army of the Moors. Once he reached the port of Gibraltar where he had indented to take a ship to Africa he came upon a wealthy family who also had need to leave the area immediately, without too much forethought John decided on the spur of the moment that he would instead become the servant to Count DaSilva. Unfortunately the Count died and the DaSilva family were able to return to Spain. John also returned to Spain, thinking himself a failure yet again.

John's whole life seemed to be one misadventure after another, as he tried to find some meaning to his life by jumping from one thing to another only to find that this was not what he was seeking. It was not so much that he was selfish as in he could not pinpoint the direction for which he felt an internal restlessness and so seemed to flit from one occupation to another in a frenzy of activity in order to fill the emptiness he felt within his soul. This did not make John a bad man nor a flighty one it made him a restless one with no place to call home.

It was while he was at Granada that he heard a sermon delivered by John of Avila, this stirred his heart deeply so much so that through his outward display of his intense feeling of grief over his past sins, John soon found himself locked within an insane asylum. He was visited by John of Avila and finding him to be sane John of Avila instructed John to behave himself and to do something with his life rather than meander on his meaningless trail. This truth truly struck home with John and he promised then and there to do all he could to serve God and the poor.

Upon his release from prison John began collecting all he could for the poor of the area in Granada. This particular work appealed to John in that he also empathized with all he met and did not judge those who found themselves in difficult circumstances. John knew that his own past behaviour did not bare closer scrutiny and though he knew God had forgiven him still he compassionated with those who did not yet understand the deep mercy of God's Love. Johns deep love for the poor was never in doubt and when he heard that a terrible fire had broken out in a nearby hospital John immediately left to do all he could to assist in saving those from the burnt out wreckage. Once he arrived though John was stunned to see many spectators just standing around as they watch the inmates burn, John did not lack courage so he raced into the burning building to save as many lives as he could. This time his impetuous nature not only worked for him it also saved lives.

There were many instances that changed Johns life most especially when he aided a poor beggar who had collapsed and as he bent to kiss the feet of the poor beggar it was here that John noticed he had nail marks driven into his feet. John was full of awe and knelt at the feet of his Lord and Savior. John was to come to the aid of many of the poor and his friends, one especially who had accidentally fallen into a raging river, John with no thought for his own safety jumped in and saved his friends life. It was through this accident that John would become critically ill as he caught pneumonia.

Though John's beginnings seemed to be one long accident after another as he tried desperately to 'fit in' John finally found his calling to serve God through the poor. John found the meaning of his existance through the love of God, and therefore he strove to serve God the rest of his remaining days.

John de Dios died in 1550.

Saint John of God was canonized in 1690 by Pope Alexander VIII.

Some Quotes

"If we look forward to receiving God's mercy, we can never fail to do good so long as we have the strength. For is we share with the poor, out of love for God, whatever he has given to us, we shall receive according to his promise a hundredfold in eternal happiness. What a fine profit, what a blessed reward! With outstretched arms he begs us to turn toward him, to weep for our sins, and to become the servants of love, first for ourselves, then for our neighbors. Just as water extinguishes a fire, so love wipes away sin."

"I work here on borrowed money, a prisoner for the sake of Jesus Christ. And often my debts are so pressing that I dare not go out of the house for fear of being seized by my creditors. Whenever I see so many poor brothers and neighbors of mine suffering beyond their strength and overwhelmed with so many physical or mental ills which I cannot alleviate, then I become exceedingly sorrowful; but I trust in Christ, who knows my heart. And so I say, "Woe to the man who trusts in men rather than in Christ."

"God is Gracious"

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Blessed Ivan Merz

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Ivan Merz was born in the year 1896 in Bosnia. Like every young person Ivan attended school in a society that tended towards the more liberal way of thinking where great literature was extolled over the Churches Teachings. This did not deter the young Ivan who not only loved his Faith but tried his utmost to live it everyday.

This was the standout point with Ivan, unlike many of his contemporaries Ivan's focus was on God and living to please God by prayerfully doing His Will. This meant a great deal of self discipline as Ivan distanced himself from those who led loose lives with equally loose morals.

Ivan chose instead to concentrate on his education and attended the University of Vienna with the hope that he would be able to pass on his own love of the Catholic Church to a younger generation. Ivan's love of the Church was so fierce and so devout that he could not imagine a world where people could be happy without God, so began his longing to evangelize the Catholic Church to all he met and all he would come to meet.

Though Ivan did not feel a calling to become a Priest he did decide after much prayer to make a vow of chastity so that he could concentrate on spreading the Faith that he loves so well and so passionately. Ivan truly is a wonderful example of how a young man can live in the world without becoming corrupted by it nor of living in the world.

As in all things though what we plan does not always turn out exactly how we would wish, this was so with Ivan with the commencement of the First World War. A horrific war with devastating consequences for many families and for the world as a whole, it would also deeply impact Ivan's own life, and lead him ever deeper into prayer and trusting in God alone.

During this most brutal war the Italian soldiers were poorly equipped with some of the fighting in the mountainous regions. It led to much bloodshed and loss of life and through it all Ivan was able to maintain his Faith even if at times he felt himself in the pits of hell due to the suffering and devastation he witnessed. Though the First World War would become known as 'the war to end all wars' unfortunately history does not bear this out, but Ivan would not see the brutality of yet another World conflict.

Upon the finish of the First World War, Ivan returned to resume his studies and took a course on Literature whereupon he completed his studies in Paris in 1922. He then studied Philosophy specializing in the Liturgy and the influence of French literature within the Liturgy itself. Ivan undertook this course of study so he could help young people gain a new love and reverence for the Liturgical elements in the Mass and the deeper meaning within the Mass, so as to impress upon young minds the essentialness of the Liturgy in Catholic Worship.

During this time Ivan also started several groups for young people in order to teach and instruct them on the Faith one of these groups being, "League of Young Croatian Catholics". Through his in-depth and private studies of documents within the Magisterium, Ivan hoped to renew the love of young people towards the Catholic Church and to influence them to give their obedience to the Vicar of Christ and the Magisterium. This young man truly was an inspiration to many he met as he sought to convey his own passion for the Church to those who needed to hear that God can be found within the One Holy and Apostolic Catholic Church.

Through all this activity Ivan never lost track of prayer and devoted many hours in silent prayer in spiritual communion with the Triune Spirit, after all it was the source of Ivan's strength, for no good work for the Church has ever been accomplished without a deep and devout prayer life. Though Ivan would suffer the ridicule of some and the insults of others he did not allow this to affect his Faith or his peace of heart. This was a young man who's soul was immersed in the love of God which knew no bounds as he offered up these sufferings to our Lord and Savior. Ivan simply wished to spread the love of God to all and the joy he had found in the embrace of the Catholic Church.

Ivan would be spared the pain of having to endure yet another world war and also the pain of watching his own country erupt in civil war. Though Ivan suffered and endured much pain he was spared this searing affliction of his own war torn country.

Ivan Merz died in 1928.

Blessed Ivan Merz was Beatified in 2003 by Pope John Paul II.

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Saint Raphael Kalinowski

Joseph Kalinowski was born in the year 1835 in the town of Vilna Poland. He was fortunate in that his parents were well educated, and his father Andrew Kalinowski, was a professor of mathematics. Coming from such a background, it was no surprise that Joseph excelled at his studies and won prizes for his gift of learning.

Even though the young Joseph received a head start in life in that his parents were well educated and prosperous, he also had the great fortune that both his parents were devout Catholics and raised their son with a deep love for the Church and for prayer. Still the political situation of his country was unsettling and would not leave the Kalinowski family unscathed.

In order to further his education and his prospects, Joseph chose to attend the Academy of Military Engineering in Russia, mainly because many Polish universities had been closed due to the Russian invasion of his homeland. It was not a happy situation and many of his fellow Poles were becoming disaffected with the Russian regime, so while this hot bed of insurrection grew, Joseph concentrated on his studies.

Joseph graduated in 1857 and as a lieutenant in the Russian Engineering Corp he worked on designing a railway line between Kursk and Odessa. Though this meant separation from his family which made Joseph homesick, still he concentrated on the task at hand, despite the vastness of the landscape. It was during these almost solitary months that Joseph grew to love this aloneness where he could commune with God as best he could under the circumstances. Joseph grew to love this solitude of heart and mind which perhaps laid the foundation for his future life. This sojourn though was to be interrupted when Joseph was recalled by the Russian authorities and transferred to the fortress at Litovsk, where he received a promotion to Captain. Though he was pleased with this promotion Joseph was not so pleased to see how Russia was oppressing his own people and the Catholic Church. It was here that he decided to run a Catholic Sunday school in order to teach the fundamentals of the Faith to the youth, at times Joseph even bought the materials needed out of his own wages.

The Polish people though were a tough and uncompromising nation and they soon became disillusioned with the force of the Russian government dictating how they should live and what they could believe, and an uprising quickly developed. Though Joseph knew that they were outnumbered and out armed, his love for his native country came first, and he joined the uprising where he was named as minister for war in the area of Vilna. He took this post on the understanding that he would not accept nor condone the death penalty on anyone. Though Joseph loved his country he loved God first!

In all despotic leaderships they usually persecute the intellectuals first, so was the case with the young Joseph Kalinowski where upon their defeat, the Russians had taken particular notice of this young mans adeptness and his love for his Faith. So it was that in 1864 the Russians arrested Joseph and sentenced him to death which they later commuted to a ten year sentence of hard labor.

For his own people and the peoples of Russia, Siberia was a place of dread where only the toughest made it through its harsh landscape and unforgiving and bitter cold. It was here where Joseph with countless others were sent as they walked their way to Siberia which took 9 months of torture as many succumbed on the way. It was also here that Joseph's strength of character came forth as many looked to him to uplift them in their own agonies. Joseph's profound love of God and the instructions he had received as a child from his loving parents shone forth as he became a beacon of light in a horrific situation. During this time he befriended the Priest who he helped by teaching the children of his fellow prisoners Catechism as they were prepared to receive their first Communion. Through this experience Joseph became more aware of where God was calling him and his heart opened to the thought of the Priesthood, as he continued to assist his fellow prisoners.

Upon his release in 1873 and returning to his native country Joseph found to his sadness that many Religious Orders had been disbanded on orders of the Russian government. This did not deter Joseph and he set off for France where he could study to become a Priest. It was in France that he became a Tutor to prominent and distinguished families and where he taught the young Prince Augusto Czartoryski who went on to join the Salesian Order of St. John Bosco.

Though Joseph loved to teach the Faith to young hearts, still he longed to become a Priest himself and this was to be answered when he joined the Carmelite Order in Austria and chose the religious name Brother Raphael, he was Ordained into the Priesthood in the year 1882, his joy was complete.

Father Raphael returned to his native country to try and help his oppressed people and to bring alive the spirit of Carmel, he also had a deep love for the Sacrament of Penance and encouraged all peoples to empty their hearts of sin and open them to the Light of Christ. It was through the example of Father Raphael that many embraced the ideal of Carmel and so the seeds were planted to be reaped at a later date as the Order of Carmel gained prominence.

Due to the many hours he spent in the Sacrament of Penance, Father Raphael earned the title that the people gave him as "martyr of the confessional." This most holy Priest did not mind the time he spent in freeing souls of the darkness of sin as they embraced and were renewed with the Light of Christ through the Sacraments of the Church.

Through imprisonment and torture this great man never once wavered in his Faith and through his efforts the Order of Carmel would flourish once again in Poland.

Father Raphael Kalinowski died in the year 1907.

Saint Raphael Kalinowski was canonized in 1991 by Pope John Paul II.

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Saint Julie Billiart

Julie Billiart was born into tempestuous times as France tinkered on the brink of revolution and civil decline. As it was in 1751 Julie was born into a devout family who loved their Catholic Faith and their country.

Julie was to become acquainted with the piquancy of life when several of her beloved siblings died at young ages which brought great suffering to the Billiart family, this suffering seemed to strengthen the Faith that held this loving family together. This studious young girl loved to study and had a great intellectual curiosity about her Faith and the world around her, which enabled her to excel in her studies and impressed her parish Priest. Due much to her maturity of nature her Priest allowed Julie to receive her first Communion at a very young age before the accepted norm which was 13 years old. When she was only 16 years old Julie gained employment in order to help with the family finances as difficulties arise in the family. Within the bosom of her family Julie was known to be a loving and compassionate girl who tried her best to help out when things needed to be done.

Julie's disposition was such that many admired her ability to work harder than anyone else in order to help her parents look after her family. What impressed many people was Julie's selflessness and gentle compassion to all irrespective of their backgrounds. This young girl who had made a private promise to God to maintain a chaste life became renowned for her prayerfulness and kindly nature. So it came as a surprise that when an extraordinary violent incident occurred within her own family it was to change Julies life forever.

France was quickly heading down the road of insurrection as many had become disaffected with their government and also the Church which some of the more political elements used to try and persecute the Catholic Church within France. This revolutionary terrorism would strike at the heart of the Billiart home when an assassin's bullet missed Julies father by only inches. This was such a shock to Julie that it affected her nerves in a very bad way and she was confined to bed, unable to work or to do anything at all. Though this terrible incident affected her nervous disposition still Julie strove by her prayers to help her family and her beloved France.

It was during this time that Julie's spiritual life gained ground and she grew in wisdom so much so that many came to seek her advice about various situations in their own lives. Though Julie was struck down with this mysterious ailment she did not allow it to embitter her but rather became even more prayerful and turned directly to God for her solace. Even Priest's sought out her wisdom to help them in their arduous vocation most especially during these dangerous years.

Then came one of Julie's biggest dreads her beloved France rose up and so began the infamous French Revolution which would also persecute her beloved Catholic Church. Though the leaders of the revolution tried to destroy the Catholic Church they did not succeed and their own attempts at a 'quasi church' met with disdain from the faithful! This persecution also led this courageous lady into hiding as she was paralyzed, and unable to defend herself for she would not submit to this 'quasi church' and allied herself totally with the Roman Catholic Church and to the Pontiff!

Julie would travel to various places including a short stay in Compiegne the scene of a terrible massacre of some heroic Carmelite Nuns. Julie then moved on to Amiens and in 1794 she stayed with the Vicomtesse Francoise de Bourdon after the terrorist revolutionaries had done their worst.

Julie's presence brought much comfort to the Vicomtesse who had been lucky to escape execution by the revolutionaries! Everybody was affected by this truly horrendous persecution of the wealthy classes, the Church and all those who opposed the revolutionaries reign of terror. Everyone was in a state of nervous tension as France endured the persecutors hatred and many of the faithful were forced to go underground in order to receive the Sacraments of the Church. While Julie stayed with Vicomtesse de Bourdon Mass was often held secretly within her home as Julie continued with her strong prayer life as France and its people were in grave need of God's Mercy and protection.

It was here that the first beginnings of a new Religious Order came to be as many in the area were drawn to Julie's particular strong devotion to prayer and her Faith. It was also here that a very holy Priest would visit and through his prayerful novena which Julie also prayed with him, she was cured of her paralysis, such is the power of prayer.

Through the intervention of Father Varin and with approval of the Bishop of Amiens a school would be opened to help aid the poor children many of whom had been orphaned during the terror of the French revolutionaries. It was also at this time that Julie Billiart took her Vows to join the Congregation of the Sisters of Notre Dame. The emphasis with Julie's Order was education of the young many of whom were abandoned by their parents or were made orphans because of the revolution.

As the reputation of the Sisters of Notre Dame grew for its excellent instruction and care of the young, more Houses were opened under the Rule of the Order. This Rule would turn into an open dispute when a Priest decided to try and impose his own rules which had a different Charism than what Mother Julie Billiart had intended but rather than become embroiled in arguments, Mother Julie chose instead to leave Amiens and begin in Ghent.

Mother Julie Billiart's Order grew as its reputation became widely known and admired. The personality of Mother Julie also played an important part as many could see her obvious piety and holiness with an inherent cheerfulness, there was nothing dour in Mother in Mother Julie. This made her loved and admired by one and all.

Though Mother Julie worked hard the effort to maintain the charism of her Order and its standards of excellence led her to neglect her own health. Mother Julie became ill and with her usual patience she bore all with peace of heart and tranquility.

Mother Julie Billiart died in the year 1816.

Saint Julie Billiart was canonized in 1969 by Pope Paul VI.

Peace of Christ to ALL

Copyright © 2006 Marie Smith. All rights reserved.

Saint Louis Marie de Montfort

Louis Marie Grignon was born in the year 1673 in the town of Montfort, France to very devout parents Jean Baptiste and Jeanne Grignon. The young Louis spent much of his infancy on the family farm near the town of Montfort, where he helped out with the chores and became an eager learner of the stories told him of heroic Saints but most especially on stories involving the Blessed Mother.

From a very young age Louis showed extraordinary love for the Mother of God and longed to be her servant through the Church. Louis was also very different from many of his contemporaries as he loved to pray much and to offer little sufferings to God in the silence of his heart. He was not so much introspective as involved with God from his infancy, he grasped quickly the fundamentals of the spiritual life even as a young child which caused many to comment on his maturity and wisdom.

At the age of 12 years he left his farm and entered the Jesuit College of St Thomas Becket in Rennes where he excelled in his studies. It was also during this time of instruction and learning that Louis heart became touched by those who were living in impoverished circumstances. Though Louis was a very prayerful young boy he was not whimsical so he set about trying to alleviate and help the sufferings of the poor who were in his neighborhood as best he could in a practical manner.

Due to his studious and serious nature Louis caught the attention of a benefactor and through his help the young man was able to bring to fruition his longing to become a Priest, so Louis left to study at the prestigious Seminary of Saint Sulpice.

His parents were very proud of their erstwhile son and showered him with gifts before he embarked on his journey to Paris, during the journey Louis gave most of these gifts to the poor. Upon arriving though at Saint Sulpice Louis found that he did not have the required amount of money to board there, but undeterred Louis began living in boarding houses so as to continue his studies. Though Louis was very intelligent and his piety was noted by all, he was not elitist in nature and respected all people from various backgrounds, whether Prince or pauper Louis treated all with equality.

Following the practices that was thriving in his era Louis also began to practice severe acts of penance so much so that it would endanger his health, and lead to a spending a short time in hospital recuperating. Upon being released from hospital and still not in the best of health Louis very fortunately was offered a place within the Saint Sulpice.

This school was to alight a fierce love for the Blessed Mother that stayed with Louis for the rest of his life and though at times some of the aspects of Saint Sulpice could be stifling Louis chose instead not to become complacent in his studies nor in his private life as he continued to work hard and to also help the poor. Louis great love was to learn everything he could without becoming opinionated, to become knowledgeable about the Faith without falling into pride, to reach out to the poor without playing lord bountiful. Louis in essence longed for authenticity in everything!

It was in 1700 that Louis dream was fulfilled and he was Ordained into the Priesthood and his first Mass very aptly was at the altar of the Blessed Virgin in the Church that was in the grounds of Saint Sulpice.

Father Louis was sent to Saint Clement in Nantes as Priest. Filled with a zealous love of God and our Lady Louis would become frustrated that others did not necessarily share this same zeal and fire for God and Church. He longed for the mission field where he could preach to his hearts content and most especially spread the devotion and love he felt for our Blessed Mother. This love would set Louis on a course that not even he could have predicted, but of course this lay in the future.

It was in meeting Mme de Montespan a woman of dubious reputation who upon repenting of her loose lifestyle had completely renounced her life of sin for a life spent in loving God and her neighbour, through service to the poor. Through the intervention of Mme de Montespan Father Louis would become chaplain to the Hospital General where the homeless were housed in terrible conditions, Father Louis compassion was aroused as he saw the terrible conditions and abject poverty of the inmates and set about trying to rectify their terrible plight. As Louis was not one for compromising when things needed to be done he became disliked by those in authority at the hospital, being a practical man at heart Father Louis could not see how treating the inmates could benefit either them or the authorities. Unfortunately those in positions of authority decided they had enough of this meddling Priest and so Father Louis had to take his leave.

This unwillingness to compromise would lead Father Louis into troubled waters as upon arriving in Paris he offered his assistance to the chaplains at the Salpetriere which had been founded by St. Vincent de Paul. Through misunderstandings Father Louis was forced to leave this work and then found himself undergoing a short period where even his friends found him difficult which led to friction and soon Louis found himself friendless in a very large city.

During these difficult months Louis was led deeper and deeper into prayer as he reflected on the life of Christ and the Blessed Mother. It is thought that the beginnings of his book 'The Love of Eternal Wisdom' was begun during this difficult period. This time away gave Louis the time he needed to reflect on God's Will for his life and how he can fulfill his mission to serve God through the poor.

It was here that the poor intervened for many had come to love this very holy Priest and it was upon their request that Father Louis with the approval of the Bishop returned to the 'Hospital General' where he became Director and had the authority to see through his reforms to help make conditions more acceptable and more comfortable for the poorest of the poor. Through his hard work Father Louis would inspire many who came to know him and watch him at work with the poor who he loved without patronising them. Two of these would be young women who felt called to the Religious life, one was Marie Louise Trichet and Catherine Brunet these two ladies joined this very holy Priest in his mission to alleviate the sufferings of the poor and give them their due dignity. Later both women would become the first Sisters of the 'Daughters of Wisdom'.

Once again though Father Louis would be met with resistance as his reforms took affect and once again Father Louis was asked to leave the 'Hospital General'. So began another foray to try and spread the zeal he felt towards love of God and in living the Gospels in daily life. It seems Father Louis love of God was the problem as many other Priests became jealous of his obvious charisma and ability to lead others back to the Church.

Father Louis was at a loss he did not know which direction to take next as all doors seemed closed to him, but not the door of Rome and so Father Louis set off to see the Pope himself! He took this step not out of ego or self pity but as a step to find direction to where truly God Willed for him to be, and so he sought a meeting with the Pope.

After speaking with Pope Clement XI, where he confided his longing to be a missionary the Pope decided that Father Louis would serve France better by staying and so he made Louis Apostolic Missionary.

Upon returning to France and after a short retreat Father Louis met Father Leuduger a Priest who was held in very high esteem. During the following months Father Louis spent his time preaching to various dioceses about the need for more and more missionary workers even to his former home, Montfort. Through his efforts a soup kitchen was started up for Louis recognised that if his own people were suffering how could they help the rest of the world and stand by as their own communities went hungry?

Once again though Father Louis came into conflict as his inability to compromise forced him to leave the work started by Father Leuduger. Louis found he dealt better with people on a one to one basis and not as statistics, he loved the interaction of dealing with people from all walks of life without any feeling of condescension. So Louis continued forth in Montfort where he lived in a small community of two other men. Through all these troubles the one consistent fact is that though some had problems with Father Louis including his fellow Priests it became very evident that Louis had the heart of the poor who never forgot the love that this holy Priest gave them as he treated one and all as his betters. Put simply Father Louis was loved by the poor of each area he had worked in. Some spoke affectionately of this devout Priest as "the good Father from Montfort".

All through his life as a Priest it would be peppered with 'instances' as his fellow Priests became jealous of Louis ability to reach out and touch the heart of the people for love of God. It was through his love of the people that Father Louis began the enterprise of erecting a large monument to remind people of Jesus love for them on the Cross at Calvary. He began construction of the monument at Pontchateau with high hopes as people rallied around to see this awesome monument erected to honour Christ's suffering on the Cross at Calvary. It was here too though that once again jealousy raised its ugly head and Father Louis was told to stop construction on orders of the King the Bishop then refused to give his blessing and the whole project was called to a grinding halt.

One can stop and admire the sheer perseverance of this amazing man where no matter what he tried to do or how successful he was nothing he touched seemed to come to fruition not because Louis was flighty but because of the petty jealousies and rivalries of others. What is outstanding is the lack of bitterness shown by Father Louis who never uttered a critical word or spoke out of favour, and he never allowed any of this to stop him from preaching God's Word to those who needed to hear it. This was an extraordinary man amongst ordinary folk, who seemed to set off the wrath of his fellow Priests and some in authority and yet the poor embraced and loved him. Wherever Father Louis traveled and preached many came back to the Church while others embraced the Faith and were baptized into the Catholic Church just from listening to this holy and also totally honest Priest who only had their best interests at heart and was able to convey just how much God loved each one of His children.

During the last years of Father Louis life even though he still preached to whoever was willing to listen to him, he also did his most productive work when writing his thoughts into books which are still considered spiritual classics and are a treasure to the Catholic Church, to this very day.

Father Louis, overcame the jealousy of others, the pain of seeing his work destroyed. He endured the animosity of those in authority while retaining the love of the poorest of the poor. He overcame petty rivalries by keeping his eyes focused on spreading the Good News to all who would listen. He began soup kitchens to feed the poor, and established free schools for those who were to poor to educate their children. He began a new Order called 'Daughters of Wisdom' with the help of his two friends Marie Louise Trichet and Catherine Brunet. He even suffered attempts on his life with equanimity and compassion for his attackers.

Father Louis Marie de Montfort was a man amongst men and a Saint amongst Saints!

Father Louis Marie de Montfort died in the year 1716.

Saint Louis de Montfort was canonized in the year 1947 by Pope Pius XII.

Peace of Christ to ALL

Copyright © 2006 Marie Smith. All rights reserved.

Saint Rose of Viterbo

At a very early age Rose proved herself to be very different from her contemporaries, what made her so different is her outstanding and obvious holiness in one so young.

What is known of Rose is that she was born around the year 1235 to poor parents and had to earn her living from a very young age, as many children had to do in order to feed themselves and provide a roof over their heads. In the thirteenth century there were no social or welfare services, to help out the poorer families.

Rose was noticeable by her holiness mainly because many had fallen away from the Faith or had become lukewarm this was due also to the fact that Emperor Frederick II was persecuting the Church and its followers. During a time where many people worked from sun up to sun set with little or no breaks in between their work life and their home life many resorted to simple but mindless pleasures to help alleviate the dreariness of their lives. This is why Rose stood out amongst the crowd, unlike the rest of the people Rose remained steadfast and grounded in the Church with a filial love and devotion.

From a young age Rose would pray before the Blessed Sacrament for hours with such love and devotion that many were in awe of this young girls evident holiness while others became annoyed at this girls faithfulness when they had let their own faith fall into lukewarmness. Rose from a young age grasped the fact that in order to gain any joy in life one must receive it from the Divine, for true peace can only come through Christ. This was a lesson that stamped itself into this young girls life as she prayed with zealousness and practiced mortifications upon herself.

The practice of severe penances was normal in the Era that Rose lived, as many holy and devout souls enjoined Christ in His suffering for the love of all mankind. During these difficult years while many suffered from oppression it was Rose who understood that it is God who ennobles all that we do so long as it is done with love and obedience to His Will. So no matter how hard times were or how difficult it was to survive it is God that strengthens the soul to persevere. Rose understood that it is God that gives us the joy we seek and not in a gaining of 'worldly' comforts.

Due to her severe mortifications Rose became ill, and even though friends and family tried to make her become less severe still Rose continued to suffer for the sake of souls. Even from a young age Rose longed to join a Religious Order, her dearest dream did not become a reality, but Rose accepted all as the Will of God deemed it.

It was during one of these severe illnesses that Rose nearly lost her life as consumption consumed her ragged and worn body made weak through her severe penances. When all seemed lost, Rose suddenly leaned up from her bed and exclaimed to those present, "All of you here, why do you not greet the Queen of the world? Do you not see Mary, the August Mother of my God, coming forward? Let us go to meet Her, and prostrate ourselves before Her majesty!" Those gathered at her death bed were astonished as they could not see what Rose herself was seeing that through the intervention of our Blessed Mother, Rose was cured. Our Lady also informed Rose that she would enter the Third Order of the Franciscans, but this would not be welcomed by all as Our Lady informed Rose, "reprove, convince, exhort and bring back the erring to the paths of salvation. If your endeavors bring upon you sarcasm and mockery, persecution and labor, you must bear them patiently... Those who assist you will be enriched with all the graces of the Lord."

From these words Rose's mission in life became reality as she endeavored to fulfill what our Lady had instructed her. She had a great love for the poor and practiced the corporal works of mercy while instructing and reproving those who had fallen away from the Faith. These were also perilous times as Rose fell foul of the Emperor and with her parents she had to flee her native town of Viterbo. When it came to protecting the Church Rose had the courage of a lioness protecting her young, she was truly fearless in the face of oppression.

There were many miracles attributed to this holy young girl as she lived her Faith with fierce courage and fortitude. It is thought that Rose raised her Aunt from the dead, and when she confronted a sorceress in her region Rose was tied to a burning pyre where the flames did not touch her, many who witnessed this miracle converted back to their Faith.

Though Rose was never to become a Religious Sister, still she served the Church through the Third Order Franciscans.

Due to her many mortifications which may have strengthened her soul it invariably weakened her body. Rose became very ill and died at only 18 years of age, surrounded by her loving family and friends.

Rose of Viterbo died in the year 1251.

Saint Rose of Viterbo was canonized in the year 1457 by Pope Callistus III.

Peace of Christ to ALL

Copyright © 2006 Marie Smith. All rights reserved.

Saint John Fisher

Like his friend Thomas More, John Fisher would also pay the ultimate price for his fidelity to the Roman Catholic Church at the hands of the vindictive and heretical King Henry the VIII.

Unlike Thomas More and John Fisher, King Henry VIII was ruled more by lustful passions than zealous principles! It comes as no surprise that this despotic ruler would murder two of the Churches finest men and all for whim, as he allowed his lust to have full reign, rather than his conscience!

John Fisher was born in the year 1460 to prosperous parents who wanted the best for their very bright and intelligent son, they sent their son to the university of Cambridge where he earned his degree in theology in the year 1487. He then spent a few years as Vicar of Northallerton before moving on to become Proctor of his university he earned a D.D in theology in the year 1501, thus making him one of the most learned theologians of his time.

He was a man of many gifts and of a resolute nature this was acknowledged at his university where was not only Proctor but also vice-chancellor before becoming chancellor for life a great honour indeed. During these busy years he met Lady Margaret Beaufort he would eventually become her Confessor and friend. It was with the encouragement of John Fisher that Lady Margaret donated considerable sums of money to the university. Upon her death in 1509 Lady Margaret Beaufort bequeathed to John Fisher some land in which she wished to build a college which would become known as St. Johns College.

Life went along fairly smoothly for John Fisher as he was given more responsibility within his area of skill, he was known for his quiet manner, deep devotion to the Church and his love of learning which he wished to share with all those he came into contact with. He had learned the skill of diplomacy and his personal integrity was never in question, though he was a learned man, he also had a deep love and concern for the poor.

In 1504 John was made Bishop of Rochester a position he maintained for thirty years. He proved to be a good Bishop and kept in touch with all people from all walks of life. He was very much a hands on Bishop who had the wellbeing of his parish at the forefront of his mind, and to instruct future Priests into the Faith with as much devotion as he had within himself.

It was around the time that Martin Luther who challenged the very fabric of the Church, that John Fisher would become close friends with Thomas More as they both sought to denounce Luther's heretical position. In conjunction with Thomas More, John Fisher wrote his apologetic in reference to the Luther heresy in his work 'Confutatio'. The difference with John Fishers work is that while he denounced the error of Luther he did not resort to personal insults or attacks but rather wrote the Truth to expose the Luther error while maintaining the Christian virtue of prudence over bluster.

While both Thomas More and John Fisher worked on refuting Luther's challenge, they also worked alongside the King which would prove to be their undoing. While both Thomas and John were moral men of high principles, King Henry the VIII was not as they would soon find out.

So it was in the year 1527 that King Henry VIII decided to annul the marriage of his first wife Catherine of Aragon, a deeply devout woman of the Church. The King knowing of John's deep virtue and great knowledge sent Cardinal Wosley to seek out the opinion of John Fisher concerning the Kings right to divorce his first wife. John Fisher gave this request much thought and after investigating the issue he sided with Rome on the issue of divorce, this displeased King Henry the VIII greatly!

John Fisher was a man of remarkable character who would not be swayed from his love of the Church and so remained an obedient son of the Church till the end, for John never reversed his first assessment of the Kings position, the King was wrong and Rome was right! Just as in the case of his good friend Thomas More, John must have realised his days were numbered for no-one crossed this out of control King without punishment. Being a resolute and unswerving man of high principles John courageously spoke out in favour of Queen Catherine and that the Kings marriage remained intact in the eyes of the Church despite King Henry's wanton disregard towards the Church's Teaching.

Things came to a head when upon marrying Anne Boleyn, the King insisted that an oath be taken that recognised that only the children of the King and Queen Anne be recognised as legitimate this was anathema to both John and Thomas More, both refused to make the oath. This action enraged the King and infuriated the headstrong young Queen, and both men found themselves arrested and taken to the Tower, a fearful place to be.

It was also discovered that John Fisher was seriously ill but the King showed no compassion and was further enraged when the Catholic Church pronounced that John would henceforth be known as Cardinal of the title of St. Vitalis. This was too much for the King and he urged with full malice to try and implicate John Fisher in open heresy towards himself. The King used one of his confidants to seek out John Fisher and to request his private opinion on the King becoming the Head of the Church of England, John trusted this particular man and replied to the question 'that the King was not, nor could be, by the law of God, Supreme Head of the church of England.' This would seal Johns fate.

Though John Fisher had serious health problems which may have been terminal the Kings malice towards this honorable man knew no bounds and he ordered the execution of this most noble and Godly man of principle to be beheaded.

John Fisher died in the year 1535.

Saint John Fisher was canonized in the year 1935 by Pope Pius XI.

His Feast Day is shared alongside his noble friend Saint Thomas More who shared his fate.

Peace of Christ to ALL

Copyright © 2006 Marie Smith. All rights reserved.

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Blessed Mother Marianne Cope

Though Barbara Koob was born in Germany in the year 1838, she did not live the rest of her life in her native country as her parents migrated to America in the hope of finding a better life for them all. The family settled in New York a bustling conglomerate of different migrants who like the Koob family hoped to live more prosperous lives in the land of the free. In order for the family to fit into their new country Barbara's parents changed their name from the German Koob to a more Anglicized Cope.

Barbara belonged to a large and loving family consisting of nine other siblings which kept the young girl busy as she helped out her mother in raising them, it also stalled her own plans of entering the Religious life. Once her siblings had reached maturity only then did Barbara follow her calling to live as a Religious and serve God.

At the age of 24 in the year 1862 Barbara entered the Order of the Sisters of St. Francis, upon receiving her habit she changed her name to Sister Marianne. When she made her religious Vows she began her work as a Sister by teaching in elementary schools, the years spent helping her mother with her younger siblings would prove invaluable.

As in many cases though Sister Marianne's life would take another turn as her skills were directed towards nursing and administration, but deep in her heart Marianne had a deep love for people which was shown by her compassionate nature towards all.

Like many Saints before her Sister Marianne became well known for her common sense attitude towards solving problems her approachable demeanor and gentle personality was loved by all. Once again though Sister Marianne's life would take yet another turn when she received a letter from a Priest requesting help in the Hawaiian Islands.

Mother Marianne along with some fellow Sisters set sail for Honolulu in 1883 where they would work as missionaries. Upon arriving both Mother Marianne and her Sisters were shocked at the deplorable state of the unhygienic hospitals, being very practical by nature Mother Marianne soon got to work and cleaned up the hospital used by those suffering with leprosy, a most dreaded and stigmatized disease.

The suffering of the lepers touched a deep chord in the heart of Mother Marianne but not only for the lepers but the family members who visited these diseased ravaged victims. This most compassionate of women then set about with her other Sisters to build a home for the children of the diseased lepers so that they too may be safe while at the same time stay in the vicinity of their ill parents.

Leprosy in those days was considered by some to be a punishment from God, Mother Marianne tried to counter act this terrible ignorance and the real fear that many had towards the lepers by educating those around her, while displaying a fearless courage in the knowledge that she too could catch this dreaded disease.

Nothing deterred this most wonderful woman, and upon learning that Fr. Damien had also contracted leprosy, Mother Marianne received him into her loving hospital community. Though this remarkable woman was fearless when confronting this disease not everyone had the same courage and upon a change in Government it was decided by the Governing body to exile the lepers to another colony. This was deeply disturbing to Mother Marianne but nonetheless she took up the challenge and went to serve and live amidst her loving community of leper victims, on the island of Molokai.

When Mother Marianne arrived it soon became evident that Fr. Damien did not have long to live and with her loving and compassionate heart she nursed this remarkable Priest while assuring him that his home for the boys would continue under her supervision. This quieted the ravaged body of Fr. Damien and he died peacefully a few months after Mother Marianne's arrival. Many lepers came to love Mother Marianne for her continual spirit of joy and compassion, she never made them feel unclean or unsightly. Her unfailing good spirits helped raise the spirits of all those around her, including her exhausted fellow Sisters.

Mother Marianne was to serve her community for the rest of her life, and unlike Fr. Damien she did not contract this dreaded illness but died of natural causes.

Mother Marianne Cope died in 1918.

Blessed Mother Marianne Cope was Beatified in 2005 by Pope Benedict XVI.

Peace of Christ to ALL

Copyright © 2006 Marie Smith. All rights reserved.

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Saint Peter the Apostle

A Reflection

Like many men Peter wanted to be seen as strong, courageous, tough and resolute. He was all these things yet paradoxically he was also, weak, cowardly, indecisive Peter was essentially the ultimate people pleaser, yet out of the twelve it was Peter who was chosen to become the leader.

When we look at the life of this great Apostle we must recognise that during his life span Peter underwent a metamorphosis that shook him to his very core and radically transformed him into a man of both courage and substance while still remaining the same Peter who would at times revert back to the attraction of a longing to be liked by the multitudes.

In order to recognise the fundamental changes that transpired within the heart and soul of Peter we must look at two events in his life which began a revolution within his very depths. The Peter that followed Jesus, listened to Jesus, lived with Jesus, ate with Jesus and who was befriended by Jesus, and who came to love Jesus for as Peter exclaimed when questioned, "he asked his disciples, "Who do people say that the Son of Man is?" They replied, "Some say John the Baptist, others Elijah, still others Jeremiah or one of the prophets." He said to them, "But who do you say that I am?" Simon Peter said in reply, "You are the Messiah, the Son of the living God." The Peter that could speak with such strength and conviction was spoken from a heart that had not yet been tested. During this time spent with Jesus, Peter was full of bravado and bluster a man more comfortable with action rather than prayer, a man intent upon proving his strength to all who accompanied him, including Jesus himself!

This was a man among men and he thrived in the company of his fellow Apostles and his friend Jesus, who intrigued but also baffled him, for Peter loved the commotion and roar of the crowds, he loved to be the centre of attention and the thrills that public life brought, yet so many times Jesus would insist that the mysteries he had shared with them must remain a secret. Peter was not given to thinking about things too much as the days were short and there was work to be done, after all he had spent his life as a fishermen, he knew what hard work meant. Deep thinking only left Peter perplexed, confused and frustrated, he preferred to speak less and do more, an action man in the true sense of the word.

When Jesus spoke about prayer, Peter listened with one ear, as he concentrated on more important issues, such as where they would sleep that night, what would they eat for the day and how was his family coping?..Should he return to his family or continue this journey with Jesus? All these things took much effort how could Peter find time to waste in prayer? There was too much to do! Even though for a short time Peter returned to his family he could not forget this man Jesus and his message...he also could not forget the words Jesus spoke to him which resonated in his heart and soul,"Come after me, and I will make you fishers of men." Peter was not a fanciful man but he could no longer ignore these words which held the meaning to his existence and is the Word of life.

As Jesus traveled within his Ministry so did Peter, who followed in the Master's footsteps while keeping an eye out for anyone who may cause trouble, for was not Peter the strong one? He alone would make sure that nothing happened to Jesus for Peter was a man of action, when Peter roared everyone jumped, he was proud of his fierce courage. Though Peter loved to be seen as strong and forceful, yet the words Jesus spoke slowly took ground as Jesus spoke of the way to the Heavenly Kingdom with words Peter had never expected to hear, a way of living that puzzled him as Jesus spoke to the crowds, "Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are they who mourn, for they will be comforted. Blessed are the meek, for they will inherit the land..." What was Peter to make of this kind of language and how could anyone live this message in the daily trials of life? These questions and more reverberated within the soul of Peter for one of Peter's great blessings was an insatiable curiosity a longing to know the Truth....at all costs.

Because Peter believed that through Jesus one found eternal life, he was determined to ensure that nothing would happen to his beloved friend. So Peter would leave the praying to Jesus while he, a man of great physical strength would take the necessary action to protect Jesus and his fellow disciples. Nothing was going to happen to Jesus or his friends on Peters watch, he was proud of his strength for the many years he had toiled as a fisherman hauling on board vast quantities of fish caught within his net, Peter had the strength and disposition of an ox!

Peter was most comfortable on the sea, where he had learned his craft to perfection, so he was in his element when he, and the other disciples decided to cross the lake in a fishing boat. It was not long before a storm blew up and the disciples shivered in terror as the waves washed over them. Peter may have been able to earn his living by the sea but he could not tame it, so all the Apostles were amazed when they saw Jesus approach them, but was it Jesus or a ghost? With his usual bluster Peter took charge and asked Jesus to command him to walk on the water and meet him, which Jesus did, but then as the Word reveals, "Come." Peter got out of the boat and began to walk on the water toward Jesus. But when he saw how (strong) the wind was he became frightened; and, beginning to sink, he cried out, "Lord, save me!" Peter once again had relied on his own strength, he had not yet realised that his strength was totally reliant upon the Lord, he would soon learn this lesson in the most painful way.

When we look at the life of Peter it reveals a man both courageous yet at times terrified, a man of action, yet when faced with opposition he flees. A man of strength yet when it was called upon his weakness overcame him, a man who promises much yet failed to deliver what he had boasted, that he would stand beside Jesus while all others fled. The man who had no time for prayer soon found he had placed his 'faith' in himself.

Jesus had warned all his disciples what lay ahead of him, yet when the time came for his betrayal, the disciples were in disarray as Peter who had slept when Jesus had most needed him took his sword out and cut the ear off the slave of the High Priest, once again Peter chose action despite the message that Jesus had preached, had he not learned anything from his Master?

Once Jesus was arrested, and the disciples had fled the scene, Peter was left to himself, but still he could not leave Jesus entirely alone so he watched Jesus from a safe distance or so he thought. Peter was an emotional mess, a confused and frightened man, as thoughts raced through his head...what could one man do against such a horde? Everything Peter had depended upon now deserted him, when questioned by the crowds Peter denied ever knowing Jesus not just once but three times, and once again the words of Jesus resonated within Peters heart, "Amen, I say to you, this very night before the cock crows, you will deny me three times."

Peter stood naked before his own perception of himself, he could barely tolerate his own company, yet still he kept his eye on Jesus as he kept his distance and a well spring of self disgust rose up in him, there was no hiding now. As Peter watched in the safety of the crowds as the fire warmed those around him yet the chillness within Peter's tormented heart found no warmth.

As the crowds gathered Peter was a man torn apart, a gut wrenching torment swept through him, he so loved Jesus, yet he had denied him..still he waited.

There but for a moment stood Jesus, bloodied, ragged, spittle running down his face, as he turned and looked upon Peter. A trembling Peter could not help himself, he gazed upwards towards Jesus where their eyes met.

The look that broke Peter's heart, that shattered forever his own belief in himself, that brought Peter to breaking point and to his knees. Peter found no condemnation in the Lords eyes, he found no censure...what Peter found was infinite love and mercy, when what he longed for was to receive what he deserved, instead he found... compassionate forgiveness.

Peter was a broken man, but his torment was not over as the tears gushed forth...he still had to face the mother of Jesus. This most holy of mothers, yet he had failed to keep any of his empty promises, how could he face this most holy and courageous of mothers? Peter looked within and found himself empty.

These were the darkest hours of Peter's life as he wept bitter tears so much so that deep grooves would remain on his face to remind him of his own failures and of God's greatness. What would he say to the mother of Jesus, how could he face her who had suffered such a grievous wound? What could he say? Peter's bluster had left him.

During these long and lonely hours as the disciples fled in every direction, more words came to Peter's heart, "Simon, Simon, behold Satan has demanded to sift all of you like wheat, but I have prayed that your own faith may not fail; and once you have turned back, you must strengthen your brothers." Despite not living up to his promises Peter came to understand that it is God's Promise that matters, slowly he re-gathered his strength as he now relied upon the Word spoken by Jesus. In these painful hours he trusted in himself no longer and instead trusted God as he began to understand the power of prayer.

As the disciples gathered in their hiding place, where a stunned Mary Magdalene informed the disciples that Jesus was risen, still many of them scoffed at such a thought...Peter did not, he fled to the empty tomb, no longer fearful of being seen...Peter ran and found the tomb empty.

The day that Jesus was Crucified and died was the day that Peter began to live the Gospel message, no longer relying on his own strength but instead Peter kept his eyes on his Lord and Him Crucified!

We can only imagine the humiliating experience which faced Peter when he met up with his brother disciples, having failed to live up to his former boasts. We can only imagine the words shared between Peter and the mother of Jesus, when he also had to face her with his cowardice....Peter learnt the meaning of humility and then lived it.

There would be many more challenges that Peter would face as he continually confronted his indecisive nature, his need to please those around him.....Till he met one man who would join him in the mission entrusted to Peter, to spread the Good News to all people...that man was known as....Paul.

Peace of Christ to ALL

Copyright © 2006 Marie Smith. All rights reserved.