Liturgical Calendar

Saint of the day

Saint Notburga (1265-1313)

Saint Notburga was a servant in the kitchen of Count Henry Rattenberg in Austria. At the end of each day, Notburga took the leftovers from the day's meals into town and gave them away to the poor and starving. The count's wife, Ottillia, told Notburga that she must use the leftovers to feed the swine instead of the poor. Not wanting to lose her position or disappoint her mistress, Notburga followed the countess's orders for a time, but then continued to feed the poor. When Ottilla discovered that Notburga was disobeying her request, she had her fired. Notburga went to work as a servant for a neighboring farm, but was rehired by the count once the countess passed away. Notburga worked in the count's kitchen for the remainder of her days, and continued to feed the poor. Saint Notburga is the patron of farmers, peasants, and servers.

Reflection

It is hard to believe that Countess Ottilla was so selfish that she told Saint Notburga to feed the pigs instead of feeding the poor. Can you think of a time when your selfishness took something away from the less fortunate? Ask the Lord to help you contribute more of your time, talents, and treasure to the poor, starving, or lonely.

Prayer

God present in the poor, help us to realize that serving the needs of others is something all of us are called to do. Let us be generous in giving to others. Let us give not only of our surplus but also of our time and energy. (Taken from “Good News Day by Day: Bible Reflections for Teens.”)