Explore every episode of the podcast Catholic Saints & Feasts of the Liturgical Year

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The Ascension of the Lord—Solemnity
Thursday of the Sixth Week of Easter or on the Seventh Sunday of Easter

Liturgical Color: White

Quote:
When they had gathered together they asked him, “Lord, are you at this time going to restore the kingdom to Israel?” He answered them, “It is not for you to know the times or seasons that the Father has established by his own authority. But you will receive power when the holy Spirit comes upon you, and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, throughout Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.” When he had said this, as they were looking on, he was lifted up, and a cloud took him from their sight. While they were looking intently at the sky as he was going, suddenly two men dressed in white garments stood beside them. They said, “Men of Galilee, why are you standing there looking at the sky? This Jesus who has been taken up from you into heaven will return in the same way as you have seen him going into heaven.” Then they returned to Jerusalem from the mount called Olivet, which is near Jerusalem, a sabbath day’s journey away. ~Acts 6:1–12

Prayer:
My Ascended Lord, forty days after You rose from the dead You ascended to the right hand of the Father in Heaven, taking up Your throne from which You pour forth both judgment and mercy. As we honor this great mystery of Your divine and human life, I beg for mercy upon me and upon the whole world. Free us from all sin, and open the floodgates of Your mercy so that all people will share one day, body and soul, in the glory of Your Beatific Vision. Jesus, I trust in You.

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May 29: Saint Paul VI, Pope—Optional Memorial

1897–1978
Patron Saint of Vatican Council II
Canonized by Pope Francis on October 14, 2018
Liturgical Color: White

Quote:
And most important of all, on taking my leave of this earthly scene, and going to face the judgment and mercy of God, there are so many things I should say, indeed so many. On the state of the Church; let her give ear to some words of ours which we uttered on her behalf seriously and lovingly. On the Council: let it be brought to a good conclusion, and let its prescriptions be put into effect. As regards ecumenism: the approach to the separated Brethren must go on, with great understanding and patience, with great love; but without deflecting from the true Catholic doctrine. As regards the world: one must not think to help it by following its ways of thought, its habits and tastes, but by studying it, loving it and serving it. I close my eyes on this sorrowful, dramatic and magnificent world, invoking once again on her behalf the divine goodness. Again I bless everyone, especially Rome, Milan and Brescia. For the Holy Land, the land of Jesus, where I went as a pilgrim of faith and peace, a special greeting and blessing. ~Last Testament, Paul VI

Prayer:
Pope Saint Paul VI, you were a faithful servant of Christ and His Church. You prayerfully sought to share the ancient and glorious faith of the Church with the whole world in any way you could. Please pray for me, that I will also be a faithful servant of Christ’s Church, doing all I can to further its mission of bringing the grace and mercy of God to all. Pope Saint Paul VI, pray for me. Jesus, I trust in You.

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May 18: Saint John I, Pope and Martyr—Optional Memorial

c. Late Fifth Century–526
Invoked against temptations toward false unity and acceptance of heresy
Pre-Congregation canonization
Liturgical Color: Red

Quote:
Who does not envy the happiness of a martyr in his dungeon, when he beholds the inward joy, peace, and sentiments of charity with which he closes his eyes to this world! And much more when he contemplates in spirit the glory with which the soul of the saint is conducted by angels, like Lazarus, to the abodes of immortal bliss! On the contrary, the wicked tyrant cannot think himself safe upon his throne… At best, his treacherous pleasures are a wretched exchange for the true joy and peace of virtue; nor can he fly from the torment of his own conscience, or the stench of his guilt. How dreadfully are his horrors increased upon the approach of death! And how will he to all eternity condemn his extravagant folly, unless by sincere repentance he shall have prevented everlasting woes! ~Butler’s Lives of the Saints

Prayer:
Pope Saint John, you chose to value the truth of the Catholic faith over your own life. You remained steadfast in the proclamation of the Gospel until the end. Please pray for me, that I will never waver in my faith, and will never give in to temptations to water down that faith. May I have the same courage that you had so that God will be able to use me to reach out to those who need to know His saving truths. Saint John I, pray for me. Jesus, I trust in You.

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December 13: Saint Lucy of Syracuse, Virgin and Martyr—Memorial

c. 283–c. 304
Patron Saint of blind people, martyrs, peasants, penitent prostitutes, poor people, sick children, authors, cutlers, farmers, glassmakers, glaziers, gondoliers, laborers, lawyers, maidservants, notaries, eye doctors, porters, printers, saddlers, sailors, salesmen, seamstresses, tailors, upholsterers, weavers, and writers.
Invoked against dysentery, epidemics, hemorrhages, throat infections, fire, poverty, and spiritual blindness.
Pre-Congregation canonization
Liturgical Color: Red

Quote:
December 13: At Syracuse, in Sicily, the birthday of St. Lucy, virgin and martyr, in the persecution of Diocletian. By the order of the ex-consul Paschasius, she was delivered to profligates, that her chastity might be insulted; but when they attempted to lead her away, they could not succeed, either with ropes or with many yoke of oxen. Then pouring hot pitch, rosin, and boiling oil over her body without injuring her, they finally plunged a sword into her throat, and thus completed her martyrdom. ~Official Roman Martyrology

Prayer:
Saint Lucy, you grew deep in faith at a young age, committed yourself to your God, and never turned back. Please pray for me, that I will have your strength, wisdom, and charity so that I will unwaveringly fulfill the will of God, choosing Him above all else. Saint Lucy, pray for me. Jesus, I trust in You.

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December 12: Our Lady of Guadalupe—USA Feast

Patroness of the Americas

Quote:
Let not your heart be disturbed. Do not fear that sickness, nor any other sickness or anguish. Am I not here, who is your Mother? Are you not under my protection? Am I not your health? Are you not happily within my fold? What else do you wish for? Do not grieve nor be disturbed by anything. ~Our Lady of Guadalupe to Juan Diego

Prayer:
Dearest Mother, Queen of Heaven and Earth, Ever-Virgin and Lady of Guadalupe, your love for the people of Central America led you to appear to a humble Christian and entrust him with a sacred task. His willingness to fulfill your will led to the conversion of countless people who will now spend their eternity with you in Heaven. Please pray for me, and for the Americas, that we will never turn away from your divine Son and will always rely upon your motherly intercession. Our Lady of Guadalupe, pray for me. Jesus, I trust in You.

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December 11: Saint Damasus I, Pope—Optional Memorial

c. 305–384
Patron Saint of archeologists
Pre-Congregation canonization
Liturgical Color: White

Quote:
You who read, whoever you are, recognize the equal merit of the two to whom Damasus the bishop has dedicated this inscription after their rewards. The Jewish people stoned Stephen when he was instructing them on a better course, he who carried off the trophy from the enemy: the faithful deacon first laid hold of martyrdom. When a raving gang was pressing holy Tarsicius to reveal to the uninitiated the sacraments of Christ that he was carrying, he wished rather to release his spirit, struck down, than to betray the heavenly limbs to mad dogs. ~An epitaph written by Pope Saint Damasus

Prayer:
Pope Saint Damasus, you lived during a transformative time in the history of the Church. Through you, God navigated the Church of your day, leading toward a fuller image of the Kingdom of Heaven. Please pray for me, that I, in my own way, will make myself more fully available to God so that He can use me to help navigate His Church through the challenges it faces in my day and age. Pope Saint Damasus, pray for me. Jesus, I trust in You.

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December 10: Our Lady of Loreto—Optional Memorial

Patron Saint of aviators and builders

Quote:
I was indeed happy when on the way to Loreto. Our Lady had chosen an ideal spot in which to place her Holy House. Everything is poor, simple, and primitive; the women still wear the graceful dress of the country and have not, as in the large towns, adopted the modern Paris fashions. I found Loreto enchanting. And what shall I say of the Holy House? I was overwhelmed with emotion when I realized that I was under the very roof that had sheltered the Holy Family. I gazed on the same walls Our Lord had looked on. I trod the ground once moistened with the sweat of St. Joseph’s toil, and saw the little chamber of the Annunciation, where the Blessed Virgin Mary held Jesus in her arms after she had borne Him there in her virginal womb. I even put my Rosary into the little porringer used by the Divine Child. How sweet those memories! ~Autobiography of Saint Thérèse of Lisieux

Prayer:
Our Lady of Loreto, your home was a sacred place. Within it, the Word became flesh and dwelt among us. Within your home, you raised your divine Son and saw Him grow in grace and virtue. The love you shared with your Son in that home was pure and perfect in every way. Please pray for me, that my home will more fully reflect the grace and virtue that abounded in your home so that my home will become more like your Holy House. Our Lady of Loreto, pray for me. Jesus, I trust in You.

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December 9: Saint Juan Diego, Hermit—Optional Memorial

1474–1548
Patron Saint of Indigenous peoples
Canonized by Pope John Paul II on July 31, 2002
Liturgical Color: White

Quote:
I beg you to entrust your message to someone more known and respected so that he will believe it. I am only a simple Indian whom you have sent as a messenger to an important person. Therefore, he didn’t believe me, and I do not want to greatly disappoint you.—My dearest son, you must understand that there are many more noble men to whom I could have entrusted my message and yet, it is because of you that my plan will succeed. Return to the bishop tomorrow. Tell him that it is I myself, the Blessed Virgin Mary, Mother of God, who is sending you. ~Reported conversation between Our Lady and Juan Diego

Prayer:
Saint Juan Diego, when the Blessed Virgin Mary appeared to you, she called you, “Juanito, the most humble of my sons…” In your humility, you obeyed her instructions and, through you, the Mother of God was able to evangelize an entire nation. Please pray for me, that I will also grow in humility so that the Mother of God can use me for her purpose, in accord with God’s perfect will. Saint Juan Diego, pray for me. Jesus, I trust in You.


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December 8: Immaculate Conception of the Blessed Virgin Mary—Solemnity
Patronal Feast of the United States—Holy Day of Obligation

c. 15 BC
Patron Saint of the United States, clothmakers, clothworkers, coopers, upholsterers, the Amazon rainforest, and numerous dioceses, cities, and countries
Liturgical Color: White

Quote:
We declare, pronounce, and define that the doctrine which holds that the most Blessed Virgin Mary, in the first instance of her conception, by a singular grace and privilege granted by Almighty God, in view of the merits of Jesus Christ, the Savior of the human race, was preserved free from all stain of original sin, is a doctrine revealed by God and therefore to be believed firmly and constantly by all the faithful. ~From the Apostolic Constitution issued by Pope Pius IX on December 8, 1854

Prayer:
Most holy Mother, you are the Immaculate Conception, God’s most precious treasure and His singular delight. To your intercession and mediation I entrust my life. Take me to your Son and pour forth His grace upon me and upon the whole world. I entrust to you every care, concern, confusion, struggle, and cross. I turn to you for every grace of faith, hope, and love from Heaven, so that I can become more fully conformed to the image of your Son Who alone is the Savior of the World. Mother Mary, the Immaculate Conception, pray for me. Jesus, I trust in You.

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December 7: Saint Ambrose, Bishop and Doctor—Memorial

c. 339–c. 397
Patron Saint of beekeepers, bishops, candlemakers, domestic animals, geese, honey cake bakers, learning, livestock, police officers, schoolchildren, security personnel, starlings, and wax refiners
Pre-Congregation canonization
Liturgical Color: White

Quote:
To avoid dissensions we should be ever on our guard, more especially with those who drive us to argue with them, with those who vex and irritate us, and who say things likely to excite us to anger. When we find ourselves in company with quarrelsome, eccentric individuals, people who openly and unblushingly say the most shocking things, difficult to put up with, we should take refuge in silence, and the wisest plan is not to reply to people whose behavior is so preposterous. Those who insult us and treat us contemptuously are anxious for a spiteful and sarcastic reply: the silence we then affect disheartens them, and they cannot avoid showing their vexation; they do all they can to provoke us and to elicit a reply, but the best way to baffle them is to say nothing, refuse to argue with them, and to leave them to chew the cud of their hasty anger. This method of bringing down their pride disarms them, and shows them plainly that we slight and despise them. ~Saint Ambrose

Prayer:
Saint Ambrose, God called you to become bishop, and you responded. Once ordained, you embraced your new calling with vigor and unwavering devotion. Through you, many lives were touched and continue to be touched through your writings and witness. Please pray for me, that I will be more fully open to God’s will for my life, always surrendering my own preferences and embracing God’s. Saint Ambrose of Milan, pray for me. Jesus, I trust in You.

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December 6: Saint Nicholas, Bishop—Optional Memorial

c. 270–c. 346
Patron Saint of children, sailors, merchants, archers, repentant thieves, brewers, pawnbrokers, unmarried people, Russia, and numerous countries and cities
Pre-Congregation canonization
Liturgical Color: White

Quote:
“If you wish to be perfect, go, sell what you have and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven. Then come, follow me.” ~Matthew 19:21

Prayer:
Saint Nicholas, through your intercession, God has touched many lives. The legends of your life have inspired faith throughout the centuries, just as your priestly and episcopal ministry impacted the people of your day. Please pray for me, that I will become a true saint and fulfill the mission God has given to me. Saint Nicholas of Myra, pray for me. Jesus, I trust in You.

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December 4: Saint John Damascene, Priest, Religious and Doctor—Optional Memorial

c. 676–749
Patron Saint of pharmacists, icon painters, and theology students
Pre-Congregation canonization
Declared a Doctor of the Church by Pope Leo XIII in 1890
Liturgical Color: White

Quote:
In other ages God had not been represented in images, being incorporate and faceless. But since God has now been seen in the flesh, and lived among men, I represent that part of God which is visible. I do not venerate matter, but the Creator of matter, who became matter for my sake and deigned to live in matter and bring about my salvation through matter…But I do not venerate it in absolute terms as God! How could that which, from non-existence, has been given existence, be God?…Is not the wood of the Cross, three times blessed, matter?… And the ink, and the most Holy Book of the Gospels, are they not matter? The redeeming altar which dispenses the Bread of life, is it not matter?… And, before all else, are not the flesh and blood of Our Lord matter? Either we must suppress the sacred nature of all these things, or we must concede to the tradition of the Church the veneration of the images of God and that of the friends of God who are sanctified by the name they bear, and for this reason are possessed by the grace of the Holy Spirit. ~Saint John Damascene

Prayer:
Saint John Damascene, you sensed God calling you out of the world to a place where you could enter into deep communion with Him. In that holy monastery, you were formed in virtue and holy learning. God then used you in remarkable ways for the good of the Church and His glory. Please pray for me, that I will embrace the deeper conversion I need so as to be better equipped to serve God as He wills. Saint John Damascene, pray for me. Jesus, I trust in You.

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December 3: Saint Francis Xavier, Priest—Memorial

1506–1552
Patron Saint of foreign missions, missionaries, navigators, and parish missions
Invoked against plague epidemics
Canonized by Pope Gregory XV on March 12, 1622
Liturgical Color: White

Quote:
By the favor of God we all arrived in Japan in perfect health on the 15th of August, 1549. We landed at Cagoxima, the native place of our companions. We were received in the most friendly way by all the people of the city, especially the relations of Paul, the Japanese convert, all of whom had the blessing to receive the light of truth from heaven, and by Paul’s persuasion became Christians. During our stay at Cagoxima the people appeared to be wonderfully delighted with the doctrines of the divine law, so entirely new to their ears. Japan is a very large empire entirely composed of islands. One language is spoken throughout, not very difficult to learn…The Japanese are very ambitious with honors and distinctions, and think themselves superior to all nations in military glory and valor…They are, in short, a very warlike people, and engaged in continual wars among themselves; the most powerful in arms bearing the most extensive sway. They have all one sovereign, although for one hundred and fifty years past the princes have ceased to obey him, and this is the cause of their perpetual feuds. ~From a letter to the Jesuits in Europe, from Saint Francis Xavier

Prayer:
Saint Francis Xavier, the Gospel was planted deep in your heart through the Spiritual Exercises given to you by Saint Ignatius, your founder. Those exercises transformed your life, and through you, many other lives were touched. Please pray for me, that I will be open to the transformation that God wants for me, so that I can then go forth to share His love with others. Saint Francis Xavier, pray for me. Jesus, I trust in You.

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Image: Joseph-Marie Vien, CC0, via Wikimedia

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May 15: Saint Isidore—USA Optional Memorial

c. 1070–c. 1130
Patron Saint of Madrid, farms, farmers, bricklayers, and rural communities
Invoked against the death of a child
Canonized by Pope Gregory XV, March 12, 1622
Liturgical Color: White

Quote:
But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be given you besides. ~Matthew 6:33

Prayer:
Saint Isidore, you were born into poverty and worked by the sweat of your brow throughout your life. All that you did, you did to give God glory. Even small tasks were sanctified in your life. Please pray for me, that I will find dignity and holiness by doing the most mundane chores and labors of my life with love. May I always seek first God’s Kingdom, making His will the center of my life. Saint Isidore the Laborer, pray for me. Jesus, I trust in You.

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Image: Joseph von Führich, via Wikimedia Commons

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November 30: Saint Andrew the Apostle—Feast

c. 5–10–c. 60–80
Patron Saint of boatmen, butchers, farm workers, fish dealers, fishermen, happy marriages, maidens, miners, paralytics, pregnant women, ropemakers, sailmakers, sailors, singers, spinsters, textile workers, water carriers, and women who wish to become mothers
Invoked against cramps, convulsions, dysentery, fever, gout, neck pain, paralysis, sore throats, and whooping cough
Pre-Congregation canonization
Liturgical Color: Red

Quote:
Ægeates then being enraged, ordered the blessed Andrew to be fastened to the cross. And he, having left them all, goes up to the cross, and says to it with a clear voice: Rejoice, O cross, which has been consecrated by the body of Christ, and adorned by His limbs as if with pearls. Assuredly before my Lord went up on you, you had much earthly fear; but now invested with heavenly longing, you are fitted up according to my prayer. For I know, from those who believe, how many graces you have in Him, how many gifts prepared beforehand. Free from care, then, and with joy, I come to you, that you also exulting may receive me, the disciple of Him that was hanged upon you…And having thus spoken, the blessed Andrew, standing on the ground, and looking earnestly upon the cross, stripped himself and gave his clothes to the executioners…And they having come up, lifted him on the cross; and having stretched his body across with ropes, they only bound his feet, but did not sever his joints, having received this order from the proconsul: for he wished him to be in distress while hanging, and in the night-time, as he was suspended, to be eaten up alive by dogs. ~Acts of Andrew

Prayer:
Saint Andrew the Apostle, God called you, and you listened and responded. After responding, the Son of God formed you, taught you, and prepared you for the mission He entrusted to you. Please pray for me, that I will more fully imitate your willing acceptance of Christ in my life, so that I will be able to be more fully formed by Him and used by Him to be an instrument of His saving Cross to the world. Saint Andrew, pray for me. Jesus, I trust in You.

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USA: Thanksgiving Day—Optional Memorial
Fourth Thursday in November

Prayer:
Most Holy Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, You are One God in Three Persons, perfectly united by divine love. I thank You profoundly for the gift of Your grace in my life, especially as that Gift is communicated to me through the Mass. In gratitude for all You have bestowed upon me, I pray that I will go forth for the rest of my life and become an instrument of Your loving mercy to all. Most Holy Trinity, I love Thee, adore Thee, and Thank Thee for everything. I wholeheartedly trust in You.

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November 25: Saint Catherine of Alexandria, Virgin and Martyr—Optional Memorial

c. 287–c. 305
Patron Saint of apologists, apprentice milliners and seamstresses, archivists, attorneys, barbers, potters, spinners, the dying, educators, girls, jurists, knife sharpeners, librarians, maidens, mechanics, millers, nurses, old maids, philosophers, preachers, scholars, schoolchildren, scribes, secretaries, tanners, teachers, theologians, and unmarried girls
Pre-Congregation canonization
Liturgical Color: Red

Quote:
Lord Jesus Christ, my God, I thank Thee for having firmly set my feet on the rock of the Faith and directed my steps on the pathway of salvation. Open now Thy arms wounded on the cross to receive my soul, which I offer in sacrifice to the glory of Thy Name. Forgive the faults I committed in ignorance and wash my soul in the blood I will shed for Thee. Do not leave my body, slaughtered by love for Thee, in the power of those who hate me. Kindly regard this people and give them the knowledge of the truth. Finally, O Lord, in Thy infinite mercy exalt those who will invoke Thee through me so that Thy name be always glorified. ~Prayer attributed to Saint Catherine before her execution

Prayer:
Saint Catherine, you devoted yourself to your God after learning of Him through the teaching of a holy monk. Once you wedded yourself to your Lord, you never wavered in your love for Him. Please pray for me, that I will also hear God’s Word, spoken in the depths of my soul, and will respond to His voice with all my heart. Saint Catherine of Alexandria, pray for me. Jesus, I trust in You.

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Our Lord Jesus Christ, King of the Universe—Solemnity

Last Sunday in Ordinary Time
Liturgical Color: White or Gold

Quote:
Jesus said to his disciples: “When the Son of Man comes in his glory, and all the angels with him, he will sit upon his glorious throne, and all the nations will be assembled before him. And he will separate them one from another, as a shepherd separates the sheep from the goats. He will place the sheep on his right and the goats on his left. Then the king will say to those on his right, ‘Come, you who are blessed by my Father. Inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world.’” ~Matthew 25:31–34

Prayer:
My glorious King of the Universe, You are perfect in all of Your ways. Your divine Law must reign in my heart and become the purpose of my life. As we honor Your kingship this day, I rededicate myself to You and submit more fully to Your sovereign control of my life. Please do with me what You will, and use me to help build Your Kingdom on earth. Jesus, I trust in You.

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November 24: Saint Andrew Dung-Lac, Priest and his Companions, Martyrs—Memorial

Seventeenth–Nineteenth Centuries
Patron Saints of Vietnam
Canonized by Pope John Paul II June 19, 1988
Liturgical Color: Red

Quote:
I, Paul, in chains for the name of Christ, wish to relate to you the trials besetting me daily, in order that you may be inflamed with love for God and join with me in his praises, for his mercy is forever. The prison here is a true image of everlasting hell: to cruel tortures of every kind—shackles, iron chains, manacles—are added hatred, vengeance, calumnies, obscene speech, quarrels, evil acts, swearing, curses, as well as anguish and grief. But the God who once freed the three children from the fiery furnace is with me always; he has delivered me from these tribulations and made them sweet, for his mercy is forever. In the midst of these torments, which usually terrify others, I am, by the grace of God, full of joy and gladness, because I am not alone—Christ is with me. ~From a letter of Saint Paul Le-Bao-Tinh sent to students of the Seminary of Ke-Vinh in 1843

Prayer:
Saints Andrew Dung-Lac, Paul Le-Bao-Tinh, Peter Thi, Agnese Le Thi Thành, Jean-Théophane Vénard, and all Vietnamese martyrs, known and unknown, I thank you for your witness of love, for your fidelity to Christ in the face of such brutal tortures, and for the gift of your prayers from Heaven. Please pray for me, and especially for the Church in Vietnam, that we will all be faithful to Christ unto death, never counting the cost, but giving all in imitation of you. Martyrs of Vietnam, pray for me. Jesus, I trust in You.

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November 23: Saint Columban (Columbanus), Abbot—Optional Memorial

543–615
Patron Saint of motorcyclists
Invoked against floods
Pre-Congregation canonization
Liturgical Color: White

Quote:
All we Irish dwelling on the edge of the world are disciples of Saints Peter and Paul and of the disciples who, under the Holy Spirit, wrote the Sacred Canon. We accept nothing outside this evangelical and apostolic teaching. There was no heretic, no Jew, no schismatic, but the Catholic Faith, as first delivered to us by you, the successor of the apostles, is kept unshaken…. We, indeed, are, as I have said, chained to the Chair of Saint Peter; for although Rome is great and known afar, it is great and honored with us only by this Chair. ~Saint Columban

Prayer:
Saint Columban, God called you at a young age to enter monastic life so as to form you into a holy man of God. He later called you forth to preach, administer the Sacraments, found new communities, teach, and influence the Church throughout Europe. Please pray for me, that I will first cooperate with the Holy Spirit in the conversion of my own soul so that God can then use me for His greater glory and the salvation of souls. Saint Columban, pray for me. Jesus, I trust in You.

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November 23: Blessed Miguel Agustín Pro, Priest and Martyr—USA Optional Memorial

1891–1927
Invoked by the Mexican Church and in times of political persecution
Beatified by Pope John Paul II on September 25, 1988
Liturgical Color: Red

Quote:
Deceitful are the ephemeral pleasures and joys of this world. Our supreme comfort in this life is to die to the world that we may live with Jesus crucified. Let others seek gold and other earthly treasures. I already possess the immortal treasure of holy poverty on the Cross of Jesus crucified. The angelic virtue, growing like a pure, fragrant lily in the hidden beauteous garden of the cloister, adorns the forehead with heavenly tints, for it has roots in the Cross of Jesus crucified. A third crown completes my oblation, it is the seal of glory, whereby the obedient, spotless Lamb gained victory. Obedience is the secure science of living with Jesus crucified. With this triple treasure, I can hope to pass beyond the fleeting confines of mortal man, by living poor on this earth and rich in heaven, united with Jesus crucified. ~Blessed Miguel, from his spiritual notebook, written when he joined the Jesuits

Prayer:
I believe, O Lord; but strengthen my faith … Heart of Jesus, I love Thee; but increase my love. Heart of Jesus, I trust in Thee; but give greater vigor to my confidence. Heart of Jesus, I give my heart to Thee; but so enclose it in Thee that it may never be separated from Thee. Heart of Jesus, I am all Thine; but take care of my promise so that I may be able to put it in practice even unto the complete sacrifice of my life. Blessed Miguel Agustín Pro, pray for me. Jesus, I trust in You.

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November 23: Saint Clement I, Pope and Martyr—Optional Memorial

c. 35–c. 99
Patron Saint of sailors, mariners, sick children, and stonecutters
Pre-Congregation canonization
Liturgical Color: Red

Quote:
Concerning the things pertaining to our religious observance which are most profitable for a life of goodness to those who would pursue a godly and righteous course, we have written to you, men and brethren, at sufficient length. For concerning faith and repentance and true love and continence and soberness and patience, we have touched upon every passage, putting you in mind that you ought in righteousness and truth and long-suffering to be well-pleasing to Almighty God with holiness, being of one mind—not remembering evil—in love and peace with instant gentleness, even as also our fathers forementioned found favor by the humility of their thoughts towards the Father and God and Creator and all mankind. And of these things we put you in mind with the greater pleasure, since we were well assured that we were writing to men who were faithful and of highest repute and had peered into the oracles of the instruction of God. ~Pope Saint Clement, Letter to the Corinthians

Prayer:
Pope Saint Clement, you were entrusted with the care of the Church on earth at the very beginning of its founding. You led through your pastoral care, your writings, and by the witness of your life. Please pray for me, that I will have the courage to lay my life down for Christ. Pray that out of love for others, I will share the Gospel with those entrusted to my care in imitation of you. Saint Clement I, pray for me. Jesus, I trust in You.

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November 22: Saint Cecilia, Virgin and Martyr—Memorial

Late Second or Early Third Century
Patron Saint of bodily purity, composers, luthiers, martyrs, music, musicians, musical instrument makers, poets, and singers
Pre-Congregation canonization
Liturgical Color: Red

Quote:
Almachius urged, “Set aside your delusions and worship the gods.”
Cecilia responded, “You’re blinded. What you call gods, we see as mere stones. Touch them, and you’ll understand what your eyes can’t see.”
Furious, Almachius ordered her to be taken to her house and burned in a hot bath. However, she felt it as if it were a cool, refreshing place. Hearing this, Almachius ordered her beheading there. The executioner struck her three times but failed to behead her. By law, a fourth strike wasn’t allowed. Thus, she was left, half alive. Over the next three days, she donated her belongings to the poor, preached her faith, and directed new believers to Urban for baptism, saying, “I’ve been granted three days to guide these souls to you and wish my home to become a church.” After three days, she passed away. Saint Urban and his followers buried her with respect, turning her home into a church, which still operates today. ~from the Golden Legend

Prayer:
Saint Cecilia, at a time in the Roman Empire when following Christ was illegal and brought with it the penalty of death, you clung to your divine Spouse without fear. Your courage and love converted your husband and his brother, and your martyrdom continues to inspire many today. Please pray for me, that I will never fear any form of suffering that is inflicted upon me because of my faith, but will follow your example and willingly lay down my life out of love for God and others. Saint Cecilia, Virgin and Martyr, pray for me. Jesus, I trust in You.

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November 21: Presentation of the Blessed Virgin Mary—Memorial

Liturgical Color: White

Quote:
And the child was three years old, and Joachim said: Invite the daughters of the Hebrews that are undefiled, and let them take each a lamp, and let them stand with the lamps burning, that the child may not turn back, and her heart be captivated from the temple of the Lord. And they did so until they went up into the temple of the Lord. And the priest received her, and kissed her, and blessed her, saying: The Lord has magnified your name in all generations. In you, on the last of the days, the Lord will manifest His redemption to the sons of Israel. And he set her down upon the third step of the altar, and the Lord God sent grace upon her; and she danced with her feet, and all the house of Israel loved her. And her parents went down marveling, and praising the Lord God, because the child had not turned back. And Mary was in the temple of the Lord as if she were a dove that dwelt there, and she received food from the hand of an angel. ~Protoevangelium of James

Prayer:
Most Holy and Immaculate Virgin Mary, you were conceived without sin and remained sinless throughout your life. With the perfection of every virtue and grace, you loved and served God even as a young child. Please pray for me, as I help to inspire young people in the ways of holiness, that I will never shy away from pointing them to you as a model and mediator of God’s grace. Most Holy Blessed Virgin Mary, pray for me. Jesus, I trust in You.

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May 14: Saint Matthias the Apostle—Feast

First Century
Patron Saint of alcoholics, carpenters, and tailors
Invoked against smallpox
Pre-Congregation canonization
Liturgical Color: Red

Quote:
After this the Lord appointed seventy-two others whom he sent ahead of him in pairs to every town and place he intended to visit. He said to them, “The harvest is abundant but the laborers are few; so ask the master of the harvest to send out laborers for his harvest. Go on your way; behold, I am sending you like lambs among wolves.” ~Luke 10:1–3

Prayer:
Saint Matthias, you heard Jesus calling you to follow Him from the very beginning of His public ministry. You responded with generosity, fulfilling the humble role of a disciple and missionary. When you were chosen as one of the Twelve and ordained a bishop, you fulfilled your shepherding duty of spreading the Gospel to the ends of the earth. Please pray for me, that I will listen to the voice of God and respond to His call generously all the days of my life. Saint Matthias, pray for me. Jesus, I trust in You.

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November 18: Dedication of the Basilicas of Saints Peter and Paul, Apostles—Optional Memorial

Liturgical Color: White

Quote:
But not to dwell upon ancient examples, let us come to the most recent spiritual heroes. Let us take the noble examples furnished in our own generation. Through envy and jealousy the greatest and most righteous pillars [of the church] have been persecuted and put to death. Let us set before our eyes the illustrious apostles. Peter, through unrighteous envy, endured not one or two, but numerous labors; and when he had at length suffered martyrdom, departed to the place of glory due to him. Owing to envy, Paul also obtained the reward of patient endurance, after being seven times thrown into captivity, compelled to flee, and stoned. After preaching both in the east and west, he gained the illustrious reputation due to his faith, having taught righteousness to the whole world, and come to the extreme limit of the west, and suffered martyrdom under the prefects. Thus was he removed from the world, and went into the holy place, having proved himself a striking example of patience. ~Epistle of Saint Clement of Rome to the Corinthians

Prayer:
Saints Peter and Paul, God used you in unique and powerful ways that continue to have a profound impact upon the lives of God’s people today. Please pray for me, that I will also become a foundation upon which God continues to build His Church and from which the message of salvation goes forth. Saints Peter and Paul, pray for me. Jesus, I trust in You.

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November 18: Saint Rose Philippine Duchesne, Virgin—USA Optional Memorial

1769–1852
Invoked for perseverance amid adversity and against the opposition of Church authorities
Canonized by Pope John Paul II on July 3, 1988
Liturgical Color: White

Quote:
You may dazzle the mind with a thousand brilliant discoveries of natural science; you may open new worlds of knowledge which were never dreamed of before; yet, if you have not developed in the soul of the pupil strong habits of virtue which will sustain him in the struggle of life, you have not educated him, but only put in his hand a powerful instrument of self-destruction. ~Saint Rose

Prayer:
Saint Rose Philippine Duchesne, God called you from an early age, and you responded. As you endured one hardship after another in the pursuit of your religious vocation, you persevered, continuously devoting yourself to God’s service. In the end, God brought every desire He had planted in your heart to fruition. Please pray for me, that I will always overcome every obstacle to the fulfillment of God’s will by divine faith, hope, and love. I pray that I will always persevere as you did, so that God will be more fully glorified by my life. Saint Rose, pray for me. Jesus, I trust in You.

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November 17: Saint Elizabeth of Hungary, Religious—Memorial

1207–1231
Patron Saint of Third Order Franciscans, bakers, beggars, brides, charitable societies and workers, exiles, falsely accused people, homeless people, hospitals, lacemakers, nursing homes, nursing services, people ridiculed for their piety, widows
Invoked against in-law problems, the death of children, and toothache
Canonized by Pope Gregory IX on May 27, 1235
Liturgical Color: White

Quote:
On Good Friday in 1228, having placed her hands on the altar in the chapel of her city, Eisenach, to which she had welcomed the Friars Minor, in the presence of several friars and relatives Elizabeth renounced her own will and all the vanities of the world. She also wanted to resign all her possessions, but I dissuaded her out of love for the poor. Shortly afterwards she built a hospital, gathered the sick and invalids and served at her own table the most wretched and deprived. When I reprimanded her for these things, Elizabeth answered that she received from the poor special grace and humility ~Testimony of her spiritual director, Friar Conrad, during the process of canonization

Prayer:
Saint Elizabeth, you dedicated yourself to your loving and crucified Lord from an early age, rejecting the vanities of this world. Despite your many temptations and hardships, you remained true to your King until the end. Please pray for me, that I will also reject all that is vain in this world and always choose my Lord and His will above all else. Saint Elizabeth of Hungary, pray for me. Jesus, I trust in You.

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November 16: Saint Gertrude the Great, Virgin—Optional Memorial

1256–1302
Patron Saint of nuns
Invoked for poor souls in Purgatory
Equivalent canonization in 1606
Added to the Universal Roman Calendar by Pope Clement XII in 1677
Liturgical Color: White

Quote:
Let the Abyss of Uncreated Wisdom invoke the Abyss of Omnipotent Power to praise and extol the amazing charity which, by an excess of Thine infinite mercy, O most sweet God of my life and only Love of my soul, hast led Thee through a desert, pathless, and dry land,— that is, through the many obstacles I have placed to Thy mercy,—to descend into the valley of my miseries. I was in the twenty-sixth year of my age when, on the Monday before the Feast of the Purification of Thy most chaste Mother, in a happy hour, after Compline, at the close of day, Thou the true Light, Who art clearer than any light, and yet deeper than any recess, having resolved to dissipate the obscurity of my darkness, didst sweetly and gently commence my conversion by appeasing the trouble which Thou hadst excited in my soul for more than a month, which Thou didst deign to use, as I believe, to destroy the fortress of vain-glory and curiosity which my pride had raised up within me, although I bore the name and habit of a religious to no purpose; but Thou didst will to use this means, that Thou mightest thereby show me Thy salvation. ~Saint Gertrude

Prayer:
Eternal Father, I offer Thee the Most Precious Blood of Thy Divine Son, Jesus, in union with the Masses said throughout the world today, for all the holy souls in purgatory, for sinners everywhere, for sinners in the Universal Church, those in my own home and within my family. Amen. Saint Gertrude the Great and Saint Matilda, pray for me. Jesus, I trust in You.

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November 16: Saint Margaret of Scotland—Optional Memorial

c. 1045–1093
Patron Saint of learning, parents of large families, parents who have lost a child, queens, and widows
Canonized by Pope Innocent IV in 1251
Liturgical Color: White

Quote:
She was called Margaret, and in the sight of God she showed herself to be a pearl, precious in faith and works. She was indeed a pearl to you, to me, to all of us, yea, to Christ Himself, and being Christ’s she is all the more ours now that she has left us, having been taken to the Lord. This pearl, I repeat, has been removed from the dunghill of the present world, and now she shines in her place among the jewels of the Eternal King. ~From a biography written by her spiritual director, Bishop Turgot

Prayer:
Saint Margaret, Queen of Scotland, you received much in this earthly life, but gave so much more. The glory of God and the salvation of souls was your greatest desire. Please pray for me, that I will always use what I have received, not for selfish gain, but for the fulfillment of the will of God in all things. Saint Margaret, pray for me. Jesus, I trust in You.

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November 15: Saint Albert the Great, Bishop and Doctor—Optional Memorial

c. 1200–1280
Patron Saint of scientists, medical technicians, natural sciences, philosophers, schoolchildren, and theology students
Canonized by Pope Pius XI on December 16, 1931
Declared a Doctor of the Church (Universal Doctor) during his canonization
Liturgical Color: White

Quote:
I have felt moved to write a few last thoughts describing, as far as one may in this waiting-time of our exile and pilgrimage, the entire separation of the soul from all earthly things and its close, unfettered union with God.
I have been more urged to this, because Christian perfection has no other end but charity, which unites us to God. This union of charity is essential for salvation, since it consists in the practice of the precepts and in conformity to the Divine will. Hence it separates us from whatever would war against the essence and habit of charity, such as mortal sin. ~Saint Albert, “On Union With God”

Prayer:
Saint Albert the Great, though your mind was incapable of comprehending the depth and breadth of God, you strove for that goal nonetheless. As a result of that continuous striving, God used you in numerous ways, helping to lay a firm foundation for the development of the Church’s faith. Please pray for me, that I will devote myself more fully to the study, prayerful pondering, and contemplation of all that God has revealed, so that I will be drawn more deeply into communion with Him. Saint Albert the Great, pray for me. Jesus, I trust in You.

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November 13: Saint Frances Xavier Cabrini, Virgin—USA Memorial

1850–1917
Patron Saint of immigrants, emigrants, hospital administrators, and orphans
Invoked against malaria
Canonized by Pope Pius XII on July 7, 1946
Liturgical Color: White

Quote:
How lovely and sweet it is to undertake a sea voyage when one is tired and worn out with the labors of the Missions! The day was fixed, the cabins were secured, and September the 2nd came all too quickly…As soon as I had finished waving my handkerchief to the Sisters, I sat on a chair, and fell asleep. When I awoke…I realized that I was far away from the Sisters and felt the sorrow of separation from them… Reflecting upon my vocation as a Missionary, I remembered that I ought not to allow sadness to take hold of me. So I entered into the Heart of Jesus, where I saw all the Sisters, and though I could not speak to them, I asked the Sacred Heart to tell each of them what I had forgotten, or what I had not time to say. Great was my pleasure at the thought that the Sacred Heart would inspire you with the good resolution to do what I want you to do, and to add to it His Grace, and thus facilitate the exercise of those virtues which give to true Missionaries of the Sacred Heart that energy which makes them zealous for the salvation of souls. ~Saint Frances Xavier Cabrini, letter to her daughters

Prayer:
Saint Frances Xavier Cabrini, in your humility and obedience you became a founder of an army of holy women who went forth across the globe to bring the Mercy in the Heart of Jesus to those in need. Please pray for me, that I will discover that same abundant mercy in Jesus’ Heart and will become an instrument of that love to all. Saint Frances Xavier Cabrini, pray for me. Jesus, I trust in You.

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November 12: Saint Josaphat, Bishop and Martyr—Memorial

1580–1623
Patron Saint of Ukraine
Invoked for the reunification of Eastern and Western Christians
Canonized by Pope Pius IX on June 29, 1867
Liturgical Color: Red

Quote:
You people of Vitebsk want to put me to death. You make ambushes for me everywhere, in the streets, on the bridges, on the highways, and in the marketplace. I am here among you as a shepherd, and you ought to know that I would be happy to give my life for you. I am ready to die for the holy union, for the supremacy of Saint Peter, and of his successor the Supreme Pontiff. ~Saint Josaphat

Prayer:
Saint Josaphat, God drew you to Himself from an early age, and you responded to His grace. As you grew in faith, God also drew you to the mission of Church unity. Please pray for me, and pray for our Church and world, that all will become one in Christ and that I will do my part to help bring that unity about. Saint Josaphat, pray for me. Jesus, I trust in You.

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November 11: Saint Martin of Tours, Bishop—Memorial

316 or 336–397
Patron Saint of beggars, cavalry, equestrians, geese, horses, innkeepers, Pontifical Swiss Guards, quartermasters, reformed alcoholics, soldiers, tailors, and winemakers
Invoked against alcoholism and poverty
Pre-Congregation canonization
Liturgical Color: White

Quote:
Accordingly, at a certain period, when he had nothing except his arms and his simple military dress, in the middle of winter, a winter which had shown itself more severe than ordinary, so that the extreme cold was proving fatal to many, he happened to meet at the gate of the city of Amiens a poor man destitute of clothing. He was entreating those that passed by to have compassion upon him, but all passed the wretched man without notice, when Martin, that man full of God, recognized that a being to whom others showed no pity, was, in that respect, left to him. Yet, what should he do? He had nothing except the cloak in which he was clad, for he had already parted with the rest of his garments for similar purposes. Taking, therefore, his sword with which he was girt, he divided his cloak into two equal parts, and gave one part to the poor man, while he again clothed himself with the remainder. ~From the Life of Saint Martin, by Sulpicius Severus

Prayer:
Saint Martin of Tours, though you were born into a pagan family, God spoke to your heart from an early age, and you listened and responded. Your kindness, deep prayer, and generosity led to your ongoing conversion, making you an inspiration to all. Please pray for me, that I will always listen to God’s voice and respond with all my heart. Saint Martin of Tours, pray for me. Jesus, I trust in You.

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November 10: Saint Leo the Great, Pope and Doctor—Memorial

c. 400–461
Pre-Congregation canonization
Declared a Doctor of the Church by Pope Benedict XIV in 1754
Liturgical Color: White

Quote:
He conquered that we too might likewise conquer. For there are no works of power, dearly beloved, without the trials of temptations, there is no faith without proof, no contest without a foe, no victory without conflict. This life of ours is in the midst of snares, in the midst of battles; if we do not wish to be deceived, we must watch: if we want to overcome, we must fight. ~Sermon by Saint Leo the Great

Prayer:
Saint Leo the Great, you exercised your papal ministry with humility and strength, wisdom and pastoral diplomacy, guiding the Church through a difficult period. Please pray for me, that I will learn from your example and always remain firm in my faith, doing all I can to lead others to God. Saint Leo the Great, pray for me. Jesus, I trust in You.


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May 13: Our Lady of Fátima—Optional Memorial

1916–1917
Liturgical Color: White

Quote:
Our Lady showed us a great sea of fire which seemed to be under the earth. Plunged in this fire were demons and souls in human form, like transparent burning embers, all blackened or burnished bronze, floating about in the conflagration… The demons could be distinguished by their terrifying and repulsive likeness to frightful and unknown animals, all black and transparent. This vision lasted but an instant. How can we ever be grateful enough to our kind heavenly Mother, who had already prepared us by promising, in the first Apparition, to take us to heaven. Otherwise, I think we would have died of fear and terror. ~from the First Secret of Fátima

Prayer:
Our Lady of the Rosary, you are the Immaculate Conception, the Queen of Heaven and Earth, and the Mother of God. Please pray for me, that I will heed the messages that you revealed at Fátima. Pray that I will live a life of continuous sacrifice of prayer, so as to make reparation for the sins and sacrileges committed against your most Immaculate Heart and the Sacred Heart of your divine Son. Our Lady of the Rosary, pray for me. Jesus, I trust in You.

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November 9: Dedication of the Lateran Basilica—Feast

Liturgical Color: White

Quote:
“Destroy this temple and in three days I will raise it up.” The Jews said, “This temple has been under construction for forty-six years, and you will raise it up in three days?” But he was speaking about the temple of his Body. ~John 2:19–21

Prayer:
Christ our Savior, through the intercessions of Saints John the Baptist and John the Evangelist, I pray for the Church today. I pray for your abundant mercy upon every sinner whom you are calling into your Church for reconciliation. I pray for my local parish, diocese, country, and the Universal Church headed in Rome. I especially pray for the Holy Father, the pastor of the Lateran Basilica and shepherd of the whole Church. Draw him close to You, make him holy, and use him to draw many people to Yourself. Saints John the Baptist and John the Evangelist, pray for us. Jesus I trust in You.

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November 4: Saint Charles Borromeo, Bishop—Memorial

1538–1584
Patron Saint of apple orchards, bishops, catechism writers, catechists, catechumens, seminarians, starchmakers, and spiritual directors
Invoked against abdominal pain, colic, stomach diseases, and ulcers
Canonized by Pope Paul V on November 1, 1610
Liturgical Color: White

Quote:
Most dearly beloved brethren, If you should look diligently into what was written in the Old Law about the excellence and purity of priests and other ministers serving the altar, and what was written about external cleanliness of body, it will surely enough become clear to you how much more excellent and pure, and how much more free from all stain and blemish of body, and even more of soul, the ministers and priests of the Law of the Gospel must be. For if we compare the New Law’s most holy sacrifice of the immaculate Lamb, the sacrifice of the Son of our God and Lord offered daily on the altar to God the Father for our sins, with those irrational victims slaughtered in the Temple of Solomon on prescribed days, what else will that be, if not to compare shadow to reality, darkness to light, earth to heaven, or rather brute animals to the most high God of gods, our savior Jesus Christ? ~Saint Charles Borromeo to newly ordained priests

Prayer:
Saint Charles Borromeo, you were born into privilege, but once ordained, you became a fervent follower of Christ and a holy shepherd of God’s people. Please pray for me, that I will follow your example of Church reform by applying the fervor you had to my own soul and family. May all I do always be done for the glory of God and the salvation of souls. Saint Charles Borromeo, pray for me. Jesus, I trust in You.

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November 3: Saint Martin de Porres, Religious—Optional Memorial

1579–1639
Patron Saint of African-Americans, biracial people, barbers, innkeepers, the poor, Peru, public health workers, public schools, television, and interracial and social justice
Canonized by Pope John XXIII on May 6, 1962
Liturgical Color: White

Quote:
Certain that he deserved more severe punishment for his sins than others did, he would overlook their worst offenses. He was tireless in his efforts to reform the criminal, and he would sit up with the sick to bring them comfort. For the poor he would provide food, clothing and medicine. He did all he could to care for poor farmhands, blacks, and mulattoes who were looked down upon as slaves, the dregs of society in their time. Common people responded by calling him, “Martin the charitable.” He excused the faults of others. He forgave the bitterest injuries, convinced that he deserved much severer punishments on account of his own sins. ~From the canonization homily of Saint John XXIII

Prayer:
Saint Martin de Porres, your poverty and rejection did not deter you from pursuing the love of God. Your love of God then filled you with many virtues and a deep love for God’s people. Pray for me, that I may learn humility from your life and will never waver in my commitment to prayer, so that God can do great things in me and through me for the world. Saint Martin de Porres, pray for me. Jesus, I trust in You.

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November 2: All Souls’ Day—Commemoration

Liturgical Color: White, Violet, or Black

Quote:
Turning to supplication, they prayed that the sinful deed might be fully blotted out. The noble Judas exhorted the people to keep themselves free from sin, for they had seen with their own eyes what had happened because of the sin of those who had fallen. He then took up a collection among all his soldiers, amounting to two thousand silver drachmas, which he sent to Jerusalem to provide for an expiatory sacrifice. In doing this he acted in a very excellent and noble way, inasmuch as he had the resurrection in mind; for if he were not expecting the fallen to rise again, it would have been superfluous and foolish to pray for the dead. But if he did this with a view to the splendid reward that awaits those who had gone to rest in godliness, it was a holy and pious thought. Thus he made atonement for the dead that they might be absolved from their sin. ~ 2 Maccabees 12:42–46

Prayer:
Most Holy Trinity, Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, through the intercession of the Blessed Virgin Mary, all the angels and saints, I beg for an outpouring of Your Divine Mercy upon every poor sinner and every poor soul in Purgatory. Cleanse them all, especially my family and friends who have died, and bring them into the full beauty and splendor of Your presence. Please also pour Your mercy down upon my poor soul, and free me from every sin and every attachment I have to sin. Increase my virtue, and draw me into union with You, my God. Angels and saints of God, pray for us. Jesus, I trust in You.

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November 1: All Saints’ Day—Solemnity

Holy Day of Obligation
Liturgical Color: White

Quote:
After this I had a vision of a great multitude, which no one could count, from every nation, race, people, and tongue. They stood before the throne and before the Lamb, wearing white robes and holding palm branches in their hands. They cried out in a loud voice: “Salvation comes from our God, who is seated on the throne, and from the Lamb.” ~ Revelation 7:9–10

Prayer:
All saints in Heaven, I thank you for the holy witness you each have given to the Church and rejoice in the blessings you now enjoy in Heaven. Please pray for me and for all people, that every one of us will become holy, bearing witness to Christ with our lives, and one day enter Heaven. May God pour forth an abundance of grace upon the world through the example you set and the prayers you now pray before His throne. All saints of God, pray for me. Jesus, I trust in You.

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October 28: Saint Simon and Saint Jude, Apostles—Feast

First Century
Patron Saint of curriers, woodcutters, and tanners (Simon); hopeless causes and hospital workers (Jude)
Pre-Congregation canonization
Liturgical Color: Red

Quote:
In those days he departed to the mountain to pray, and he spent the night in prayer to God. When day came, he called his disciples to himself, and from them he chose Twelve, whom he also named apostles: Simon, whom he named Peter, and his brother Andrew, James, John, Philip, Bartholomew, Matthew, Thomas, James the son of Alphaeus, Simon who was called a Zealot, and Judas the son of James, and Judas Iscariot, who became a traitor. ~Luke 6:12–16

Prayer:
Saints Simon and Jude, you were both privileged to learn from Jesus Himself. After His Ascension, you were among the first to receive the Holy Spirit and ordination as bishops. God used you to then go forth and fulfill His command to share the Gospel to the ends of the earth. Please pray for me, that I will more fully understand my mission within the Body of Christ and will fulfill my duties with diligence and love. Saints Simon and Jude, pray for me. Jesus, I trust in You.

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October 24: Saint Anthony Mary Claret, Bishop—Optional Memorial

1807–1870
Patron Saint of the Catholic press, textile merchants, and weavers
Canonized by Pope Pius XII on May 7, 1950
Liturgical Color: White

Quote:
Love in a man who preaches the Word of God is like fire in a musket. If a man were to throw a bullet with his hands, he would hardly make a dent in anything; but if he takes this same bullet and ignites some gunpowder behind it, it can kill. It is much the same with the Word of God. If God’s Word is spoken only naturally, it does very little; but if it is spoken by a priest who is filled with the fire of charity—the fire of love of God and neighbor—it will wound vices, kill sins, convert sinners, and work wonders. We can see this in the case of St. Peter, who walked out of the upper room afire with the love he had received from the Holy Spirit, with the result that through just two sermons he converted 8,000 people, three in the first sermon and five in the second. ~from the Autobiography of Saint Anthony Mary Claret (#439)

Prayer:
Saint Anthony Mary Claret, God set your heart on fire with a love for Him so deep that it overflowed into the hearts of every sinner you encountered. Please pray for me, that I will grow deeper in my love of God, and from that love will love others whom I encounter every day. Saint Anthony, pray for me. Jesus, I trust in You.

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October 23: Saint John of Capistrano, Priest—Optional Memorial

1386–1456
Patron Saint of military chaplains, judges, jurists, and lawyers
Canonized by Pope Alexander VIII on October 16, 1690
Liturgical Color: White

Quote:
Those who are called to the table of the Lord must glow with the brightness that comes from the good example of a praiseworthy and blameless life. They must completely remove from their lives the filth and uncleanness of vice. Their upright lives must make them like the salt of the earth for themselves and for the rest of mankind. The brightness of their wisdom must make them like the light of the world that brings light to others. They must learn from their eminent teacher, Jesus Christ, what he declared not only to his apostles and disciples, but also to all the priests and clerics who were to succeed them, when he said, “You are the salt of the earth…You are the light of the world.” …By the brightness of their holiness they must bring light and serenity to all who gaze upon them. They have been placed here to care for others. Their own lives should be an example to others, showing how they must live in the house of the Lord. ~From the treatise “Mirror of the Clergy,” by Saint John of Capistrano

Prayer:
Saint John of Capistrano, your taste of worldly power and wealth was unsatisfying, leading you to search for more. The suffering of your imprisonment helped open your eyes to God, and you turned to Him and never turned back. Please pray for me, that I will come to the same deep conviction in my life that God alone is what matters. May I become completely devoted to Him, serving His will alone. Saint John of Capistrano, pray for me. Jesus, I trust in You.

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October 22: Saint John Paul II, Pope—Optional Memorial

1920–2005
Patron Saint of World Youth Days
Canonized by Pope Francis on April 27, 2014
Liturgical Color: White

Quote:
Do not be afraid. Open wide the doors for Christ. To His saving power, open the boundaries of States, economic and political systems, the vast fields of culture, civilization and development. Do not be afraid. Christ knows “what is in man.” He alone knows it. So often today man does not know what is within him, in the depths of his mind and heart. So often he is uncertain about the meaning of his life on this earth. He is assailed by doubt, a doubt which turns into despair. We ask you therefore, we beg you with humility and trust, let Christ speak to man. He alone has words of life, yes, of eternal life. ~Inaugural homily of Pope John Paul II

Prayer:
Saint John Paul II, your life began with the loss of your earthly family, but you were later entrusted with the entire world as your children. Please pray for me, that I will never allow hardships in this life to deter me from the service of God’s will, so that I can remain hopeful and fearless as I seek to serve our glorious God. Saint John Paul II, pray for me. Jesus, I trust in You.

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October 20: Saint Paul of the Cross, Priest—USA: Optional Memorial
(October 19 outside of the USA)

1694–1775
Patron Saint of Hungary and Ovada, Italy
Canonized by Pope Pius IX on June 29, 1867
Liturgical Color: White

Quote:
You must correspond faithfully to His merciful action by humbling yourself ever more in your nothingness before His Sovereign Majesty, renouncing all these gifts and remaining in utter nakedness and nothingness. At the same time offer a holocaustal sacrifice of all these gifts and put them in the thurible of your heart so that, enkindled by God’s charity, they may ascend as a fragrant incense before the Most High Majesty of the Supreme Good ~From a letter to Mother Mary Crucified, by Saint Paul of the Cross

Prayer:
Saint Paul of the Cross, God drew you to the heights of contemplation and taught you the deepest truths within the depths of your soul. You then shared the good fruits of your contemplation with the world. Please pray for me, that I will continuously seek to deepen my faith by deepening my prayer and penance, never shying away from the most glorious Gift of the Passion of Jesus Christ. Saint Paul of the Cross, pray for me. Jesus, I trust in You.

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May 12: Saint Pancras, Martyr—Optional Memorial

c. 289–c. 304
Patron Saint of children, jobs, and health
Invoked against cramps, false witnesses, headaches, and perjury
Pre-Congregation canonization
Liturgical Color: Red

Quote:
In the same place, on the Aurelian road, the holy martyr Pancratius, who, at fourteen years of age, endured martyrdom by decapitation under Diocletian.
Also, at Rome, Saint Denis, uncle of the same blessed Pancratius. ~Roman Martyrology for May 12

Prayer:
Saint Pancras, though young in age, you were old in faith and courage. You chose to die rather than to worship false gods. Please pray for me, that I will imitate your faith and courage in my life, holding nothing back from my wholehearted service of the true King of all Kings. Saint Pancras, pray for me. Jesus, I trust in You.

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October 19: Saints Jean de Brébeuf, Isaac Jogues, Priests and Martyrs; and their Companions, Martyrs—USA: Memorial

Saint René Goupil (1606–1642); Saint Isaac Jogues (1607–1646); Saint Jean de la Lande (Unknown–1646); Saint Antoine Daniel (1601–1648); Saint Gabriel Lalemant (1610–1649); Saint Jean de Brébeuf (1593–1649); Saint Charles Garnier (1606–1649); Saint Noël Chabanel (1613–1649)
Patron Saints of North America
Canonized by Pope Pius XI on June 29, 1930
Liturgical Color: Red

Quote:
Having stopped near the gate of the Village, to see what they might say to us, one of those two Iroquois draws a hatchet, which he held concealed under his blanket, and deals a blow with it on the head of René, who was before him. He falls motionless, his face to the ground, pronouncing the holy name of JESUS (often we admonished each other that this holy name should end both our voices and our lives)…I rise again, and run to the dying man, who was quite near. They dealt him two other blows with the hatchet, on the head, and dispatched him—but not until I had first given him absolution, which I had been wont to give him every two days since our captivity; and this was a day on which he had already confessed.” ~Account of the martyrdom of Saint René Goupil, the first martyr, from Saint Isaac Jogues

Prayer:
Saints Jean de Brébeuf, Isaac Jogues, and companions, you abandoned the comforts of your life in France and traveled to a new land to share the Gospel with a people who had never heard of Christ. Your courage and love for all of God’s people brought you there, and you shed your blood for that act of love. Please pray for me, that I will have the same depth of love for all whom God calls me to serve. Holy Martyrs of North America, pray for me. Jesus, I trust in You.

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October 18: Saint Luke the Evangelist—Feast

First Century, died c. age 84
Patron Saint of artists, bachelors, bookbinders, brewers, butchers, glassworkers, goldworkers, laceworkers, notaries, physicians, and surgeons
Pre-Congregation canonization
Liturgical Color: Red

Quote:
Since many have undertaken to compile a narrative of the events that have been fulfilled among us, just as those who were eyewitnesses from the beginning and ministers of the word have handed them down to us, I too have decided, after investigating everything accurately anew, to write it down in an orderly sequence for you, most excellent Theophilus, so that you may realize the certainty of the teachings you have received. ~Luke 1:1–4

Prayer:
Saint Luke, you were a faithful servant of Saint Paul and a devout worshiper of Jesus, your Lord. You placed before God all your natural gifts, your education, time, and energy so that He could use you for the fulfillment of His holy will and the proclamation of the Gospel. Please pray for me, that I will always devote myself without hesitation to the fulfillment of God’s will, so that God can use me as He will to draw many to Christ. Saint Luke, pray for me. Jesus, I trust in You.

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October 17: Saint Ignatius of Antioch, Bishop and Martyr—Memorial

Early- to Mid-First Century–c. 107
Patron Saint of the Church in Northern Africa and the Eastern Mediterranean
Invoked against throat diseases
Pre-Congregation canonization
Liturgical Color: Red

Quote:
I am writing to all the churches to let it be known that I will gladly die for God if only you do not stand in my way. I plead with you: show me no untimely kindness. Let me be food for the wild beasts, for they are my way to God. I am God’s wheat and bread. Pray to Christ for me that the animals will be the means of making me a sacrificial victim for God. No earthly pleasures, no kingdoms of this world can benefit me in any way. I prefer death in Christ Jesus to power over the farthest limits of the earth. ~Saint Ignatius, letter to the Romans

Prayer:
Saint Ignatius of Antioch, you were highly blessed to be part of the earliest days of the Church. You were touched by Christ, made the radical commitment to follow Him, served as a bishop, and died courageously and joyfully as a martyr. Please pray for me, that I will discover what you discovered and believe what you believed, so that I will also long for nothing other than to be in the service of God’s will, sacrificially laying my life down. Saint Ignatius of Antioch, pray for me. Jesus, I trust in You.

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