St. Agatha of Sicily

Feast Day: February 5

Saint Agatha of Sicily is a Christian saint, revered for her martyrdom in the 3rd century AD. Her story is an example of faith and resilience in the face of persecution.

Birth and Early Life: Agatha was born in Catania, Sicily, around 231 AD. Little is known about her early life, but she came from a wealthy and noble family.

Faith and Vow of Virginity: From a young age, Agatha committed herself to Christianity and took a vow of chastity.

Persecution by Quintianus: Her beauty attracted the attention of a Roman prefect, Quintianus, who made advances toward her. Agatha refused, citing her vow to God.

Imprisonment and Torture: In retaliation, Quintianus had her imprisoned and subjected to torture. This included the severing of her breasts, a detail that later became a significant aspect of her iconography.

Faith During Suffering: Despite the torture, Agatha remained steadfast in her faith.

Death: Agatha died in prison around 251 AD, likely due to the severity of her injuries.

Patronage:

Saint Agatha is venerated as a patron saint in various contexts:

Patroness of Sicily: She is particularly revered in Sicily, especially in her hometown of Catania.

Protection Against Fire: Her intercession is sought for protection against fire, possibly due to the legend of Mount Etna's eruption being halted at her veil's touch.

Patron of Breast Cancer Patients: Given the nature of her martyrdom, she is often invoked by those suffering from breast cancer and other diseases of the breast.

Patron of Bell Founders: Due to the shape of her severed breasts. These associations are more symbolic, linked to the instruments of her martyrdom and her iconography.

Recorded Miracle:

Intervention During Etna's Eruption: Many legends talk about the miracle attributed to her miraculous veil for stopping a lava flow from Mount Etna. Etna’s eruption of 252 AD, is the year after the death of Agatha.

Prayer to Saint Agatha:

"O Heavenly Father, who glorified Your faithful servant Agatha with the crown of martyrdom, grant us, through her intercession, the strength to overcome the temptations of this world and remain steadfast in our faith. May we, inspired by the example of Saint Agatha, endure our trials with courage and grace, seeking always to do Your will. Through her prayers, may we find healing and comfort in our afflictions, especially those who suffer from illnesses of the breast. We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen."

Reflection:

Reflecting on Saint Agatha's life, we are reminded of the virtues of faith, courage, and purity. Her unwavering commitment to God in the face of unimaginable pain and suffering teaches us about the power of faith to endure hardships. Her story encourages us to stand firm in our convictions and to trust in God's plan, even when faced with trials and tribulations. Saint Agatha's legacy continues to inspire and offer solace, especially to those battling illnesses or facing persecution for their beliefs.

St. Helen (St Helena)

Feast Day: August 18 

Born in mid-3rd century in the Middle East, St. Helen lived to a ripe old age as Empress Helena, mother of Constantine the Great.  A daughter of humble inn-keepers, Helena married Roman general, Constantius, who later divorced her upon becoming junior emperor to marry--for political expediency--the stepdaughter of his patron, co-emperor Maximianus.  Remaining loyal, her only child, Constantine,  succeeded his father’s throne upon his death.  When he defeated his rivals becoming sole ruler, Constantine summoned Helena to the imperial court, bestowing on her the title “Empress.” Furthermore, he honored his mother by ordering coins made with her name and portrait.    

Influenced by Constantine, Empress Helena converted to Christianity becoming even more devout than those born and raised as Christians.  Known for her charitable acts, she gave generously to whole towns, not just individuals, especially the needy. Her generosity and zeal in building churches and visiting shrines encouraged the wider spread of Christianity.   In her late 70’s, Empress Helena made a pilgrimage to Palestine. In a dream, she saw the Cross of Christ buried under a pagan temple.  She had it demolished, the ground dug out.  Helena found fragments of the Cross, recognizable for its inscription between 2 plain ones.  She sent the nails to Constantine who put one in his crown, another in his horse’s bridle, making the prophecy of Zechariah come true (14.20).  In that day there shall be upon the bells of the horses, “Holy Unto The Lord.”

St. Helen lived so long ago, legend and fact have intertwined. Legend credits her for building churches in Rome and other places and decorating them lavishly. The fact remains, as Palestine’s Bishop Eusebius asserted, she did build a church near the Grotto of Nativity in Bethlehem, another on the Mount of the Ascension near Jerusalem and embellished the Grotto.

Already past 80, Helen returned to her native land which Constantine, then residing in the East, had improved renaming it, Helenapolis.  Constantine was at her deathbed in 330, the last year known to have coins with her image.  Her body was transported to Constantinople (now Istanbul, Turkey) to the imperial vault of the church of the Church of the Apostles. Today, the sarcophagus of St. Helen lies in the Vatican Museum.

St. Helen was venerated as a saint as early as the 9th century, devotees reaching even western countries.  Her religious pictures show her holding a cross.  She left a lasting impact on Christian history and is revered as a saint in the Eastern Orthodox, Oriental Orthodox, and Roman Catholic churches.

Patronage:

Saint Helena is the patron saint of new discoveries, converts, difficult marriages, and archaeologists.

Prayer to Saint Helena:

"O Saint Helena, who, with faith unwavering, journeyed to the Holy Land to seek the True Cross, guide us on our own journeys of faith. Teach us to search tirelessly for the Lord and embrace the crosses we find along the way. May your example inspire us to convert our hearts fully to God’s will. Amen."

Reflection:

* Let us reflect on St. Helen’s journey to sainthood.  Isn’t it impressive that she used the massive wealth at her disposal in church-building and uplifting the lives of the needy?  She could have wallowed in a luxurious lifestyle befitting a Roman empress had she been self-indulgent. Hadn’t she the pick of the finest jewelry to bedeck herself?  Couldn’t she have caroused in endless banquets and merry-making with the high and mighty? Instead, she used the resources of the empire to decorate the churches she built and devoted her time to visiting shrines and holy places.

* Reflecting on the life of Saint Helena encourages us to consider the importance of faith and perseverance. Her dedication to finding the True Cross symbolizes the Christian pursuit of truth and the embracing of one's cross in life. Her influence on her son, Constantine, reminds us of the profound impact that our faith can have on those around us, often leading to transformative changes in their lives and in the wider world. Saint Helena's story is a testament to the power of faith to inspire great deeds and lasting change.

Saint Sebastian

Feast Day: January 20

Birth and Early Life: There is not much historical evidence about Saint Sebastian's early life. He is believed to have been born in Narbonne, Gaul (modern-day France), and grew up in Milan, Italy.

Military Service: Sebastian joined the Roman army around 283 AD, reportedly to assist persecuted Christians. He served under Emperor Carinus and later under Diocletian.

Christian Faith: Despite his military status, Sebastian was a devout Christian. He used his position to comfort and strengthen Christians who were being persecuted, and he converted many to Christianity.

Discovery and Martyrdom: Eventually, his faith was discovered. According to tradition, Diocletian ordered him to be tied to a stake and shot with arrows. Miraculously, he survived this ordeal, only to be beaten to death later after he openly criticized Diocletian for his treatment of Christians.

Death and Veneration: He died as a martyr around 288 AD. His body was recovered and buried on the Appian Way, near the present Basilica of St. Sebastian.

Patronages:

Athletes and Soldiers: He is most commonly known as the patron saint of athletes and soldiers, likely due to his physical endurance and military background.

Plague Protection: He is also invoked for protection against plagues, as his martyrdom was remembered during times of widespread disease.

Archers and Pin-makers: Given the manner of his attempted execution, archers and pin-makers also regard him as their patron.

Prayer to St Sebastian:

"O Lord, we remember today Saint Sebastian, a faithful servant and martyr. Through his intercession, grant us the courage to stand firm in our faith and the strength to endure the challenges of life. May his exemplary devotion inspire us to live our lives in service to You and to others, especially in times of difficulty and trial. Saint Sebastian, pray for us. Amen."

Reflections:

Reflecting on the life of Saint Sebastian encourages resilience and faithfulness in the face of adversity. His story reminds us that true strength often lies not in physical power, but in the courage of one's convictions and the willingness to endure suffering for a greater cause. As we navigate the challenges of our own lives, may we find inspiration in his unwavering commitment to his faith and his compassionate assistance to those in need.

Great was his love for Christ and his fellow Christian that Sebastian risk his life to be with them and minister to them.  He did not only encourage them to remain firm in their faith.  But he too lived and died remaining firm to his faith and defending it till the end.

Saint Maximilian Kolbe

Feast Day: August 14


Known as Apostle of Consecration to Mary

Pope John Paul II declared him the “The Patron Saint of Our Difficult Century”

Maximilian was born in 1894 as Raymond Kolbe. He is the second of the 3 sons born to a poor Catholic family in Poland which was then occupied by Russia.   His parents were both Franciscan lay tertiaries who worked at home as basket weavers. His father later ran a religious book store then enlisted in the army.  His mother, on the other hand, soon worked as a midwife and owned a grocery store in part of her rented house. In 1907, Kolbe and his elder brother Francis decided to join the Conventual Franciscan junior seminary in Lwów. In 1910, Raymond Kolbe was allowed to enter the novitiate and professed his first vows a year after. He adopted the name Maximilian Maria to show his devotion to the Blessed Virgin Mary
and received the final vows at age 20. That same year, his father who fought for Polish independence from Russia was captured and hanged by the Russians as a traitor. Maximilian's mother eventually became a Benedictine nun.

While in seminary, Maximilian and his six friends founded the Immaculata Movement to work for the conversion of sinners, opposition to freemasonry, as well as the spread of the Miraculous Medal and devotion to Our Lady.

During this time, he contracted tuberculosis which nearly killed him and though he recovered, Maximilian remained frail all his life. In 1915, he earned a doctorate in philosophy at the Pontifical Gregorian University,
and a doctorate in theology at the Pontifical University of St. Bonaventure for years after. 
After receiving a doctorate in theology, Maximilian Kolbe spread the Immaculata Movement through a monthly magazine publication called "The Knight of the Immaculata" which had over a million circulation.  The Immaculata friars also published catechetical and devotional tracts as well as newspapers reaching thousands of people daily.

Maximilian founded the monastery of Niepokalanów near Warsaw. He established a seminary, a radio station (used to spread Catholic faith and to speak out against the atrocities of the Nazi regime) and several other
organizations and publications. Kolbe is the only canonized saint to have held an amateur radio license.

In 1930, Maximilian along with 4 brothers left for Japan and within a month upon their arrival was printing a Japanese version of the Knight of the Immaculata. Six years after, the magazine grew to a circulation of 65,000.  Maximilian founded a monastery in Nagasaki in 1931 that still stands today as a center of Franciscan work in Japan.

He was forced to return to Poland because of poor health and by 1939, following the Nazi invasion of Poland, Maximilian along with several of his brothers were arrested.  They were released barely 3 months later.  But on 17 February 1941, Maximilian was imprisoned in Pawiak, Warsaw and the brothers dispersed for housing Polish refugees many of whom were Jewish and for publishing materials considered to be anti-Nazi.  He was transferred to Auschwitz and branded as prisoner #16670. Maximilian suffered a lot from the abusive guards and was even left for dead after being beaten and lashed. Nevertheless, Maximilian ministered to other prisoners and spent his time hearing confessions, conducting Mass and giving communion when unleavened bread is made available.

On July 31, 1941, there was an escape from the camp and in retribution for one prisoner's escape, ten men were to be starved to death. One of the selected men, Francis Gajowniczek, was a young married man and father.  Father Kolbe offered himself in place of him.

In the prison cell, Kolbe led the other 9 men in prayer and worship. Each time the guards checked on him, he was seen praying and ministering to others or would be singing hymns to the Virgin Mary. After enduring 3 weeks of starvation and dehydration, only Kolbe remained alive. 

The guards wanted the bunker emptied so Maximilian Kolbe was murdered with an injection of carbolic acid.

Kolbe was canonized by Pope John Paul II on October 10, 1982 in the presence of Franciszek Gajowniczek and declared Maximilian Kolbe a martyr of charity.
   
Maximilian Kolbe's beatification miracles include the cure of intestinal tuberculosis of Angela Testoni in July 1948 and the cure of calcification of the arteries/sclerosis of Francis Ranier in August 1950.

Patronage:

    drug addicts (against drug addiction)
    prisoners
    journalists
    pro-life movement
    families

Prayer to St Maximilian Kolbe:

"O Lord, we remember the courage and love of Saint Maximilian Kolbe. Grant us the strength to be selfless in service and steadfast in faith, as he was. May his life inspire us to hold firm in our beliefs and to offer compassion and aid to those in need. Help us to follow his example of sacrificial love, and may his intercession guide us on our spiritual journey. Amen."

Reflection: 

St. Maximilian Kolbe's life reminds us of the profound impact of faith, sacrifice, and love. His willingness to lay down his life for another reflects the highest form of Christian love – agape. In our daily lives, we can honor his legacy by showing selfless love and kindness to those around us, standing firm in our beliefs, and using our talents and resources for the greater good.

Saint Lorenzo Ruiz

Feast Day: September 28

Lorenzo Ruiz was born in Binondo, Manila on November 28, 1594.  His father was Chinese and his mother Filipino.  During his youth, Lorenzo was educated by the Dominican Fathers and from them he learned the fundamentals of faith.  He became the errand boy of the friars and was an altar boy at Binondo convent.  As he grew older, he was employed as their "escribano" because of his skillful hand.

Lorenzo is a devout Catholic and was a great devotee of the Blessed Virgin.  He was blessed with two sons and a daughter and had a happy and harmonious married life.  Things changed, however, when he found himself being accused of a crime he did not commit after having an argument with a Spaniard. Fearing for his life, he sought to escape and when he learned that the Dominicans were preparing to embark on a mission to Japan, he joined the group.  He bade goodbye to his loved ones and left the Philippines with a heavy heart.

The expedition was a clandestine one for the Christians were hunted down, persecuted and put to death in Japan at that time.  His intention, at the start was to remain in Macau to earn a living for his family.  But St. Lorenzo Ruiz changed his plan and decided to be a missionary instead.  Not many days after their arrival in Okinawa, the missionaries were arrested and thrown into prison. Two years after, they were brought in a torture chamber in Nagasaki. There they suffered incredible torture as they were hung by their feet and were submerged in water which brought some of his companions to recant their faith. There were beaten and needles were inserted inside their finger nails while they were being questioned.

"If we grant you your life, are you willing to renounce your faith?"

To this St. Lorenzo Ruiz answered:

"I am a Christian and this I profess, and although I did not come to Japan to become a martyr, I am now willing to give up my life for God. You can do with me as you will please."

On September 1637, muzzled and hand tied the prisoners marched to the place of execution.  Saint Lorenzo Ruiz was hanged head down inside a small pit called a 'horca y hoya'.  Only his limbs were seen from above the ground.  To slow down the flow of blood, he was bound and his flesh slightly cut.  For three days, his torturer left him this way. Their bodies were burned and the ashes were thrown into the sea.

He and his companions were beatified by Pope John Paul II during the Papal visit to Manila on 18 February 1981.  He was canonized on October 18, 1987.

 He is recognized as the first Filipino Saint and Martyr.

Patronage:

St. Lorenzo Ruiz is the patron saint of several causes and groups, including:

Filipino Youth: He is a role model for Filipino youth, exemplifying faith, courage, and perseverance in the face of adversity.

Filipino migrants and overseas workers: St. Lorenzo Ruiz's story resonates with the struggles of Filipino migrants and overseas workers, offering them inspiration and intercession.

Prayer to St Lorenzo Ruiz:

O Holy Martyr Lorenzo Ruiz,

You faced persecution and suffering

with unwavering faith and love for Christ.

You remained steadfast in your beliefs

and willingly endured torment and death

rather than renounce your faith.

Pray for us, dear saint,

that we may find the strength and courage

to stand firm in our beliefs

and remain faithful to Christ in the face of adversity.

Intercede for all Filipinos and migrants

who seek your protection and guidance.

Amen.

Reflections:

* The life of St. Lorenzo Ruiz reminds us of the power of faith and the strength of the human spirit. He endured unimaginable suffering and remained unwavering in his commitment to his Christian beliefs. His story is an inspiration to all who face trials and tribulations in life.

In our own lives, we may encounter challenges and difficulties that test our faith and resolve. St. Lorenzo Ruiz teaches us the importance of standing firm in our convictions, even when the world around us may be hostile or uncertain. His example reminds us that true strength comes from our faith in God and our willingness to endure hardships for the sake of our beliefs.

Let us reflect on the courage and faith of St. Lorenzo Ruiz and seek his intercession when we face adversity in our own lives. May his story inspire us to live with unwavering faith and to remain steadfast in our devotion to Christ, no matter the circumstances.

*Anyone can be a saint. Saint Lorenzo Ruiz or more known to Filipinos as San Lorenzo Ruiz is an ordinary man.  Just like us, he simply wants to have a happy, peaceful, harmonious life.  However, his circumstances changed and he was thrust into a situation so complicated.   Yet, even if he didn’t want what was happening in his life, Saint Lorenzo Ruiz faced it with unwavering courage and unyielding faith and trust in God.  In the end, he willingly gave his life to a God who is truly deserving of all Saint Lorenzo Ruiz can offer.

Saint Lorenzo Ruiz encourages us to never lose faith and to always trust in God no matter what.  Surely, God was with him during those terrible last days and though his body was suffering, his soul found happiness, peace and assurance that his suffering was not in vain.

Saint Vincenta Maria Lopez y Vicuña

Feast Day: December 26

Saint Vicenta Maria Lopez y Vicuña was born at Cascante, Spain in March 24, 1847. Vicenta had a happy childhood. She was a daughter of a famous lawyer, reared in a Catholic home and educated in Madrid. She may have had a good chance of living a comfortable life yet she chose the way of austerity and sacrifice. Vicenta’s uncle was a priest while her aunt was a nun who founded a home for domestic servants. This perhaps, fostered her attraction to religious life. At 23, she too became a nun and organized a group of ladies to protect and promote the welfare of the working girls- This was the beginning of the Sisters of Mary Immaculate. Along with this, Vicenta Maria founded several foundations, technical training schools, hostels, canteen, and provided these working girls boarding houses while they are away from home. She was a mother and homemaker to them, helping and teaching them in the ways of the Lord.

Her congregation spread throughout Spain and other parts of Europe as well as in Latin America. She endured many trials and difficulties which she faced with courage and faith. Saint Vicenta Maria died on December 26, 1890. Sixty years after her death and through numerous graces obtained through her intercession, she was canonized Saint.

Patronage:

St. Vicuña is considered a patroness of vulnerable children, young women, and all those who work to protect and care for them. Her life serves as an example of selflessness and devotion to the welfare of others, particularly those in difficult circumstances.

Prayer St. Vicuña:

Dear Heavenly Father, we thank you for the life and legacy of St. Vicuña, who dedicated her life to the care and protection of vulnerable children and young women. Through her example, may we be inspired to show compassion and love to those in need, especially those who are marginalized and oppressed.

St. Vicuña, pray for us, that we may follow your path of selfless service and be a source of hope and healing for those who are most in need. Help us to be instruments of your mercy and grace in the world. Amen.

Reflection:

*What could have prompted Saint Vicenta Maria to abandon a life of comfort and live an austere life for others? LOVE.
In her desire to give herself totally to God, she gave up all that she had and all that she might have been. She love God abundantly (a love that she first received from God) and that love overflowed to her neighbors.

* St. Vicuña's life reminds us of the profound impact one person's compassion and dedication can have on the lives of others. Her journey from a challenging childhood to becoming a beacon of hope for countless young girls and women serves as a powerful reminder that each of us has the potential to make a difference in the world. As we celebrate her feast day, let us reflect on the ways we can extend kindness and support to those who are marginalized and vulnerable in our own communities, and may we find inspiration in her unwavering faith and love for others.