Liturgical Calendar

Saint of the day

Saint Maurice (d.287)

Saint Maurice was a soldier. He was an officer of the Theban Legion of Emperor Maximian's army. Emperor Maximian's army was made up of Christians from Upper Egypt. When he and his fellow soldiers were ordered to sacrifice to gods to insure victory in battle, they refused and left their encampment. Emperor Maximian had the entire Theban Legion put to death for refusing; over 6,000 men. Maurice and his fellow officers encouraged the other soldiers to remain faithful to the one true God. Saint Maurice is the patron saint of soldiers, swordsmiths, armies, and infantrymen.

Reflection

In the United States, we often take for granted our right to practice the religion of our choosing. But throughout history, and even today in many countries, religious freedom is unimportant. Many Christians around the world are still persecuted for simply choosing their faith. Take a moment to meditate on the quality of a life lived in constant fear that others will hurt you because of your religion.

Prayer

Dear Jesus, please help those who are religiously persecuted to maintain their faith and help them to know and feel your love for them.

Meditations

Meditation for Gospel

Saint Robert Bellarmine was a theologian and Scripture scholar. He was a Jesuit priest who was made a cardinal because the Pope said, "He had not his equal for learning." In spite of his brilliance and honors, Robert ate only the food available to the poor and used the hangings in his room to clothe poor people. He said, "The walls won't catch cold." The seed of God's word found good soil in Robert Bellarmine. Pray to Saint Robert Bellarmine that your heart and mind will be good soil for the word of God. Pray that you may put the lessons of the Gospel into action in your life as he did in his. (Taken from “Take Ten – Daily Bible Reflections for Teens”)