Liturgical Calendar

Saint of the day

Saint Marguerite d’Youville (1701-1771)

Saint Marguerite d'Youville was born in rural Quebec in 1701 into serious poverty, and dropped out of school to help her widowed mother and younger brothers and sisters. She married unhappily when she was 21, and when her husband died she brought up her two sons alone by running a little store. By the time her sons were grown, she'd developed such a reputation for helping out the poor whenever and wherever she could that she and three young friends joined together to start a group called the Sisters of Charity of Montreal, now better known as the Grey Nuns. Among other great accomplishments, Saint Marguerite and the Sisters of Charity started the first home for abandoned children in North America. (Taken from "Saints Passionate and Peculiar.")

Reflection

Even though life may throw you a few curve balls, you can still minister to others and grow in your faith. It wasn't Saint Marguerite d'Youville's plan to drop out of school or to enter into an unhappy marriage, but through these obstacles she still helped the hurting and less fortunate. Even though you may be hurting, struggling, or living unhappily, ministering to others can help you to feel God's love and joy, and can strengthen your faith. How can you help someone today?

Prayer

Dear God, help me to open my eyes today and discover where I can do an act of love for your sake. (Taken from "Take Ten: Daily Bible Reflections for Teens.")