Video
Jesus the Lord, by Roc O’Connor and the Saint Louis Jesuits
The song/video "Jesus the Lord,” by Roc O’Connor and the Saint Louis Jesuits," available on YouTube (6:24) with lyrics, is best used on day 4.
Video
Light of the World
The song/video "Light of the World," by Hillsong Kids, available on YouTube (3:51) with lyrics, is sung by grade schoolers. It is best used on day 4.
Video
Walk with Me
The song/video "Walk with Me," by Jesus Culture, available on YouTube (10:22) with lyrics, is simple and powerful. It is best used on day 3.
Video
Lord, You Have Come to the Seashore
The song/video "Lord, You Have Come to the Seashore," sung by Tim Lewis, is available on YouTube (4:03) with illustrated art and photos. It is best used on day 1.
Video
Pope Francis Joins Religious Leaders of Different Faiths, in Fight against Modern Slavery
The video "Pope Francis Joins Religious Leaders of Different Faiths, in Fight against Modern Slavery," by Rome Reports, available on YouTube (3:07), shows people of faith working together to eliminate one of the world’s greatest evils, slavery. It is best …
Video
Pope Francis in Action
The video "Pope Francis in Action," by Catholic News Service, available on YouTube (1:26), features the Pope at World Youth Day 2013. It is best used on day 3 or day 4.
Video
Pope Francis Speaks
The video "Pope Francis Speaks," by Catholic News Service, available on YouTube (9:27), is a video of the Pope’s remarks from the balcony of Saint Peter’s on the night of his election. It is best used on day 3.
Video
Pope Paul VI—The Pilgrim Pope
The video "Pope Paul VI—The Pilgrim Pope," by Salt and Light, available on YouTube (2:37), chronicles Pope Paul VI’s role in the Second Vatican Council, increasing Christian unity—including lifting the excommunication of the Greek Orthodox Patriarch—and bringing the Good News …
Video
Dwelling Place
The song/video "Dwelling Place," by John Foley and the Saint Louis Jesuits, available on YouTube (3:42) with lyrics and photos of parish liturgy, is best on day 4.
Video
Make Me a Channel of Your Peace
The song/video "Make Me a Channel of Your Peace," available on YouTube (3:39) with images, photos, and lyrics, is best used on day 3.
Video
Let There Be Peace on Earth—Sing Along
The song/video "Let There Be Peace on Earth—Sing Along," available on YouTube (2:41) with photos and lyrics, is best used on day 2.
Video
Open My Eyes
The song/video "Open My Eyes," by Jesse Manibusan, available on YouTube (2:54) with lyrics, is best used on day 1.
Video
St. Maximilian Kolbe—Martyr
The video "St. Maximilian Kolbe—Martyr," by The Story of Liberty, available on YouTube (4:52), presents this saint to the students in a way that brings his sacrifice to life. Best with Chapter Project.
Video
St. Teresa Benedicta of the Cross
The video "St. Teresa Benedicta of the Cross," available on YouTube (7:13), is an engaging short film on the life of this saint. It would tie well to the "People of Faith" segment at the end of the chapter. It …
Video
Vaticanum Secundum (Opening of the Second Vatican Council)
The video "Vaticanum Secundum (Opening of the Second Vatican Council)," by Caeremoniale Romanum, available on YouTube (3:33), is the opening ceremony of Vatican Council II. The first of three videos. In Italian (no subtitles), but the pictures are worth a …
Video
The Catholic Church during World War II
The video "The Catholic Church during World War II," by heptagonofnerds, available on YouTube (2:47), is done by a teen and addresses the issue of the Catholic Church and the Jews. It presents realistically what Pope Pius XII and the …
Video
Catholic Social Teaching Movie
The video "Catholic Social Teaching Movie," available on YouTube (10:05), is an overview with music, photos, and quotes from various sources, of seven themes. It is best used on day 1.
Video
SJ Project 2012—Dignity of Work and the Rights of Workers
The video "SJ Project 2012—Dignity of Work and the Rights of Workers," available on YouTube (2:33), is a brief video that gives the students a modern look at the dignity of work and the rights of workers as told by …
Video
When the Saints Go Marchin’ In
The song/video "When the Saints Go Marchin’ In," by The Weavers, available on YouTube (2:39) with lyrics, is best used on day 4.
Video
God Bless America
The song/video "God Bless America," by the Barrington Breakfast Rotary, available on YouTube (2:24) with lyrics, is a rousing prayer. It is best used on day 3.
Video
Take, Lord, Receive
The song/video "Take, Lord, Receive," by John Foley and the Saint Louis Jesuits, in Memory of Fr. Bob Bedard C.C., available on YouTube (4:27), is best used on day 1.
Video
St. Rose Philippine Duchesne
The video "St. Rose Philippine Duchesne," by apostleshipofprayer, available on YouTube (2:00), introduces Saint Rose Philippine Duchesne. It is best used on day 4.
Video
St. John Neumann
The video "St. John Neumann," by apostleshipofprayer, available on YouTube (2:01), introduces Saint John Neumann. It is best used on day 4.
Video
Be Not Afraid—St. Louis Jesuits & Bob Dufford, S.J.
The song/video "Be Not Afraid—St. Louis Jesuits & Bob Dufford, S.J.," available on YouTube (4:36), is best used on day 4.
Video
A Mighty Fortress Is Our God—Haven of Rest Quartet (Acapella)
The song/video "A Mighty Fortress Is Our God—Haven of Rest Quartet (Acapella)," available on YouTube (2:46) with lyrics, is best used on day 2.
Video
Palestrina—Sicut cervus
The song/video "Palestrina—Sicut cervus," performed by the Cambridge Singers, available on YouTube (3:17) with lyrics, is best used on day 1.
Video
St. Francis Xavier
The video "St. Francis Xavier," by apostleshipofprayer, available on YouTube (2:00), documents the life, travels, and missionary spirit of Saint Francis Xavier. It is best used on day 4.
Video
St. Thomas More
The video "St. Thomas More," by catholicnewsagency, available on YouTube (2:01), shows the strong Catholic faith of Saint Thomas More and how he stood up to King Henry VIII instead of recognizing the Church of England. It is best used …
Video
Turning Points in History—The Reformation
The video "Turning Points in History—The Reformation," available on YouTube (2:28), is a good presentation of the conflict between Martin Luther and the Catholic Church. It is best used on day 2.
Video
Let My Prayer Arise—Orthodox Lent Chant in English
The song/video "Let My Prayer Arise—Orthodox Lent Chant in English," performed by the parish choir of Saint Philip Antiochian Orthodox Church in the USA, is available on YouTube (5:10) with lyrics and photos of Orthodox worship. This is chanted at …
Video
Gregorian Chant
The song/video "Gregorian Chant," performed by the Monastic Choir of the Abbey of St. Pierre de Solesmes, in 1930, is available on YouTube (45:19). The Abbey of Solesmes is a Benedictine monastery renowned for its teaching of chant. The first …
Video
Crusades
In the video "Crusades," by Mr. Corwin, available on YouTube (9:35), a middle-school history teacher explains it all, with good visuals. It is appropriate for use on day 3.
Video
Fall of the Roman Empire
The video "Fall of the Roman Empire," available on YouTube (12:44), is an entertaining crash course in Roman history. Two segments show the differences between the Eastern and Western Empires (begin at 5:06) and the Eastern and Western Churches (begin …
Video
The Nicene Creed in Original Greek
The video "The Nicene Creed in Original Greek," proclaimed by Pope Benedict XVI and the Orthodox Patriarch of Constantinople, Bartholomew I, is available on YouTube (2:28) with excellent photos of the two prelates, art, and icons. It is best used …
Video
Catholic History in Less than Five Minutes: (4) The Early Church Fathers
The video "Catholic History in Less than Five Minutes: (4) The Early Church Fathers," by Pat McNamara, is available on YouTube (4:47). It is best used on day 1.
Video
Christ Be Our Light
The song/video "Christ Be Our Light," by Bernadette Farrell, is available on YouTube (3:34) with lyrics and nature scenes. It is best on day 3 or day 4.
Video
This Little Light of Mine
The song/video "This Little Light of Mine," by Harry Dixon Loes (University of New Hampshire), is available on YouTube (2:34). It is best used for closing prayer on day 1.
Video
We Are the Light of the World
The song/video "We Are the Light of the World," by Jean A. Greif, available on YouTube (2:58) with lyrics, is the Beatitudes set to music. It is best used for opening prayer on day 1.
Video
Don’t Laugh at Me
The song/video "Don’t Laugh at Me," by Mark Wills, is available on YouTube (3:35), describes the pain of being bullied. It is used on day 1.
Video
Love Knows No End
The song/video "Love Knows No End," by Hillsong Live, available on YouTube (5:24) with lyrics, is best used on day 4 as a closing prayer.
Video
Forgiveness
The song/video "Forgiveness," by Matthew West, available on YouTube (4:26) with lyrics, is best on day 3
Video
Let It Go
The song/video "Let It Go," by Tenth Avenue North, available on YouTube (3:19) with lyrics, is best on day 2.
Video
Sermon on the Mount: The Lord’s Prayer
The video "Sermon on the Mount: The Lord’s Prayer," by LearnAboutTheBible, available on YouTube (2:18), is the English of the King James version. It is best used on day 1.
Video
The Lord’s Prayer
The song/video "The Lord’s Prayer," performed by Andrea Bocelli and the Mormon Tabernacle Choir, available on YouTube (4:30), is an option for opening prayer on day 4.
Video
Abba Father—Acoustic Cover
The song/video "Abba Father—Acoustic Cover," by Carey Landry, available on YouTube (3:30), is best for opening prayer on day 3.
Video
Abba Father
The song/video "Abba Father," by Klaus Kuehn with Kari Jobe, available on YouTube (6:01), is best on day 3.
Video
Come Worship the Lord
The song/video "Come Worship the Lord," by John Michael Talbot, is available on YouTube (7:58). Point out that this song is based on Psalm 95. Commentary includes an explanation of the liturgy as a dance, with gestures. You may want …
Video
10,000 Reasons (Bless the Lord)
The song/video "10,000 Reasons (Bless the Lord)," by Matt Redman, available on YouTube (4:22), encompasses the entire day in worship. This song/video may be used as the hymn with Midday Prayer on day 3.
Video
I Lift Up My Soul
The song/video "I Lift Up My Soul," by Tim Manion and the Saint Louis Jesuits, available on YouTube (3:00) with lyrics, shows views of Catholic liturgy and prayer as well as natural scenes. It is best used on days 1 …
Video
What Is the Difference between Meditation and Contemplation?
The video "What Is the Difference between Meditation and Contemplation?" by Spiritual Direction, is available on YouTube (4:03). A Catholic priest explains these two forms of prayer. It is best used on day 4.
Video
Stillness—Meditation, Prayer, Worship
The video "Stillness—Meditation, Prayer, Worship," by Emo Teofanov, is available on YouTube (1:06:40). The first few minutes outline the basics of contemplative prayer. The author then leads the viewer through a session of stillness and prayer. It is best used …
Video
Illumination—Peaceful Gregorian Chants—Dan Gibson’s Solitude
The video "Illumination—Peaceful Gregorian Chants—Dan Gibson’s Solitude" is available on YouTube (1:01:00). It is Latin chant. In some places, the Liturgy of the Hours is still chanted in Latin. In most places in the United States, Gregorian chant melodies are …
Video
Everyday God—Be with Us
The song/video "Everyday God—Be with Us," available on YouTube (4:54), is appropriate as an opening or closing prayer on any day. There are several videos of "Everyday God," by Bernadette Farrell, on YouTube. One, uploaded by Weng Daquilanea, uses slides …
Video
God Has Chosen Me
The song/video "God Has Chosen Me," by Bernadette Farrell, is available on YouTube (2:12). It is best used on day 1 or day 2.
Video
Lean on Me
The song/video "Lean on Me," by Zeal for Zion, available on YouTube (2:41) with lyrics, is a meditative prayer for times of trouble. It is best used on day 4.
Video
If God Be for Us
The song/video "If God Be for Us," by Zeal for Zion, available on YouTube (2:00), is based on Romans 8:31. It is best used on day 4.
Video
The Heartbeat of God
The song/video "The Heartbeat of God," by Zeal for Zion, available on YouTube (2:39) with lyrics, is appropriate as an opening or closing prayer for any day, but is best used on day 4.
Video
Jesus the Lord
The song/video "Jesus the Lord," by Roc O’Connor and the Saint Louis Jesuits,” available on YouTube (6:24) with lyrics, is best used on day 4.
Video
Day by Day
The song/video "Day by Day," performed by the cast of Godspell, available on YouTube (3:27), is a musical setting of the Prayer of Saint Richard of Chichester. The students might like seeing the recording studio ambience. Appropriate for any day, …
Video
How to Start a Prayer Journal—#blbBibleStudy
The video "How to Start a Prayer Journal—#blbBibleStudy," by breelovesvlogs, available on YouTube (8:43), is a video by a college-age young woman that gives insight into starting a daily conversation with God in writing. It is best used on day …
Video
Top 40 Worship Songs—United States (by CCLI popularity)
The playlist "Top 40 Worship Songs—United States (by CCLI popularity)," by Stone Family Church-Home, available on YouTube with lyrics, is a compilation of forty songs/videos by various contemporary artists. It is useful as a reference for various prayerful songs on …
Video
Just Say Jesus
The song/video "Just Say Jesus," by 7eventh Time Down,” available on YouTube (2:41) with lyrics, is best used on day 4, perhaps as the opening or closing prayer.
Video
Holding Nothing Back
The song/video "Holding Nothing Back," by Ryan Stevenson, is available on YouTube (3:36) with lyrics. Mary holds nothing back from God. It is best used on day 2.
Video
Magnificat (with Wexford Carol)
The song/video "Magnificat (with Wexford Carol)," by Keith & Kristyn Getty,” available on YouTube (4:53) with lyrics, is a song based on the Magnificat. It is best used on day 2.
Video
Magnificat—Mary’s Song
The song/video "Magnificat—Mary’s Song," composed by Todd Agnew & performed by Christy Nockels, available on YouTube (5:08) with lyrics, is the Magnificat in contemporary language illustrated with scenes from nature. It is best used on day 2.
Video
Magnificat
The song/video "Magnificat," by John Michael Talbot, available on YouTube (5:53), includes a slideshow of Marian art. It is best used on day 2.
Video
As Morning Breaks (Ps. 63)
The song/video "As Morning Breaks (Ps. 63)," by John Michael Talbot, available on YouTube (4:07), is a good opening prayer/psalm for day 1.
Video
Jesus Urging His Disciples to Stay Awake
The video "Jesus Urging His Disciples to Stay Awake," by Turnback to God, available on YouTube (5:32), is an animated account of Jesus at prayer in Gethsemane (an amalgamation of Gospel accounts). It is best used on day 4.
Video
Suffer the Little Children to Come unto Me
The video "Suffer the Little Children to Come unto Me," by Mormon Channel, available on YouTube (2:41), shows Jesus blessing and healing little children. It is best used on day 3.
Video
Gifts of the Holy Spirit
The video "Gifts of the Holy Spirit," by Saint Mary’s Press, available on YouTube (0:51), offers a short, meditative reading on the Gifts of the Holy Spirit and would make a good opening prayer for day 4.
Video
Amazing Grace (My Chains Are Gone)
The song/video "Amazing Grace (My Chains Are Gone)," by Chris Tomlin, available on YouTube (4:29), teaches the greatness and power of grace all around us and provides a good opening song for any day this week. "
Video
Burning in My Soul
The song/video "Burning in My Soul," by Matt Maher, available on YouTube (3:45), provides a nice connection to Pentecost and the modern listener and is appropriate for use on day 4.
Video
Spirit of the Living God
The song/video "Spirit of the Living God," by Far from Home, available on YouTube (3:09) with lyrics, offers a nice opening prayer for day 2.
Video
Forever (Live)
The song/video "Forever (Live)," by Kari Jobe, available on YouTube (6:50) with lyrics, is a good opening prayer for day 4. The video can be shortened to 4:38.
Video
With Every Act of Love
The song/video "With Every Act of Love," by Jason Gray, available on YouTube (3:35) with lyrics, is used on day 3.
Video
You Are God Alone
The song/video "You Are God Alone," by Phillips, Craig, and Dean, available on YouTube (4:01), is a good opening song for any day.
Video
Mighty to Save
The song/video "Mighty to Save," by Hillsong United, available on YouTube (7:06) with lyrics, is a good opening song for any day. The video can be stopped at 4:52 as time allows.
Video
Forgiveness (Live)
The song/video "Forgiveness (Live)," by Matthew West, available on YouTube (8:41), is a story told through words and music of the power of forgiveness and new life in Christ. It is appropriate for use on day 4.
Video
Isaiah 53
The song/video "Isaiah 53," by Sovereign Grace Music, available on YouTube (5:14), is appropriate for prayer on day 3. It can be shortened to 3:49.
Video
Lamb of God
This song is presented in the video "Lamb of God—Twila Paris," with images of the life of Jesus, available on YouTube (4:04) and is used on day 2.
Video
Lamb of God (Lyrics)
The song/video "Lamb of God," by Sarah Reeves, available on YouTube (3:22) with lyrics, is used on day 2.
Video
For The Cross
The song/video "For The Cross // Brian Johnson, Jenn Johnson, & Bethel Music // Tides Official Lyric Video," available on YouTube (5:37), provides a good opening prayer for any day. It can be shortened to 3:47.
Video
Seven Corporal Works of Mercy
The video "Seven Corporal Works of Mercy," available on ktd141’s channel on YouTube (3:17), shows the corporal works of mercy in action with a great song accompaniment. It is appropriate for opening or closing prayer on day 4.
Video
The Kingdom of God
The song/video "The Kingdom of God," like many Taizé songs, is available on YouTube (4:15) and is a meditative chant that would work well as an introduction to chant and an opening prayer. It is appropriate for use on day …
Video
Seek Ye First the Kingdom of God
The song/video "Seek Ye First the Kingdom of God" (3:03) is a popular song about seeking the Kingdom of God. Many versions are available on YouTube. It is appropriate for prayer on any day.
Video
Lean on Me
The song "Lean on Me," by Bill Withers, available on YouTube (several versions), is a song about friendship. It is appropriate for use on day 4.
Video
The Angel Speaks to Mary
Several videos of the Annunciation are available on YouTube. Because the Annunciation is the announcement of the Incarnation, it would be appropriate to show one on day 1 or day 2. "The Angel Speaks to Mary," by TheLdsLife (4:08), is …
Video
The Hurt and the Healer
The song/video "The Hurt and the Healer," by Mercy Me, available on YouTube (4:48) with lyrics, provides a good opening prayer for day 3.
Video
I Will Follow
The song/video "I Will Follow," by Chris Tomlin, available on YouTube (3:43), provides a good opening prayer for day 4.
Video
By Faith
The song/video "By Faith," by Keith and Kristyn Getty, available on YouTube (5:08) with lyrics, also provides a good opening prayer for any day. The song can be stopped at 3:08 if time is a consideration.
Video
Consider the Lilies
The song/video "Consider the Lilies," performed by Sings Sampaguita, available on YouTube (3:59) can be used for opening prayer on day 2. In this version, the only visual is the performer, but the words are easier to understand.
Video
Mary's Role in the Catholic Church
The video "Mary’s Role in the Catholic Church," available on YouTube (3:52), is used in the "She Is Your Mother" activity on day 2.
Video
Mary, Did You Know? (The Bible)
The song/video "Mary, Did You Know? (The Bible)," by CeeLo Green, available on YouTube (4:12), incorporates video about the life of Mary and Jesus and is also appropriate for day 1.
Video
Mary, Did You Know?
The song/video "Mary, Did You Know?" by Pentatonix, available on YouTube (3:24) with lyrics, is an a cappella rendition that is appropriate for day 1.
Video
Mary in 2 Minutes
The video "Mary in 2 Minutes," available on YouTube (2:43), addresses many important questions regarding Mary to support day 1 activities.
Video
Trip Lee—Reflections on Romans 8
The video "Trip Lee—Reflections on Romans 8," available on YouTube (2:59), is used for the "Clear the Way" activity on day 4.
Video
Gospel Music by Shai Linne, 116 Clique (Romans)
The song/video "Gospel Music by Shai Linne, 116 Clique (Romans)," available on YouTube (4:55), is used for the “Clear the Way” activity on day 4. Though the video is 4:55, the song concludes at the 4:11 mark. It is helpful …
Video
World Peace Prayer
The song/video "World Peace Prayer," by Marty Haugen, available on YouTube (4:06), provides a hopeful litany that complements the "Opposites" activity on day 4.
Presentation
Our Response to Jesus
This PowerPoint accompanies Unit 5, Chapter 16, by discussing what our response to Jesus is as we pursue eternal life with Him.
Presentation
We Respond through a Life of Discipleship
This PowerPoint accompanies Unit 5, Chapter 15, by discussing what we can do to become true disciples of Jesus.
Presentation
We Respond to God through Prayer
This PowerPoint accompanies Unit 5, Chapter 14, by discussing what prayer is, how best to practice it, and who to look to as an example of a strong prayer life.
Presentation
What Is Faith?
This PowerPoint accompanies Unit 5, Chapter 13, by discussing more deeply the meaning of faith and its connection to religion and belief.
Presentation
Jesus Reveals Our Call to Holiness
This PowerPoint accompanies Unit 4, Chapter 12, by discussing our call to holiness as told by Jesus’ parables and teachings.
Presentation
We Are Children of God
This PowerPoint accompanies Unit 4, Chapter 11, by discussing God’s plan for each of us as His children.
Presentation
Jesus Reveals Our Inherent Dignity
<p>This PowerPoint accompanies Unit 4, Chapter 10, by discussing the inherent dignity of all life as shown to us by Jesus.</p>
Presentation
Jesus Reveals a Vision of Authentic Humanity
This PowerPoint accompanies Unit 4, Chapter 9, by discussing Jesus’ example of what it means to live as a perfect human being.
Presentation
Jesus and the Church
This PowerPoint accompanies Unit 3, Chapter 8, by discussing Jesus’ presence in Church history and today.
Presentation
The Two Natures of Jesus: Human and Divine
This PowerPoint accompanies Unit 3, Chapter 7, by discussing the society and life of Jesus and how it these related to the nature of his humanity and divinity.
Presentation
The Incarnation
This PowerPoint accompanies Unit 3, Chapter 6, by discussing the Incarnation, which brought about the full connection of humanity and divinity.
Presentation
Discovering God in Creation
This PowerPoint accompanies Unit 2, Chapter 4, by discussing the revelation of God through creation, prayer, and the saints.
Presentation
Sacred Scripture and Sacred Tradition
This PowerPoint accompanies Unit 2, Chapter 4, by discussing the revelation of God through Scripture and Tradition.
Presentation
The God-Human Relationship
<p>This PowerPoint accompanies Unit 2, Chapter 3, by discussing the relationship between God and humans.</p>
Presentation
The Development of Trinitarian Doctrine
This PowerPoint accompanies Unit 1, Chapter 2, by discussing the development of Trinitarian Doctrine in the early church.
Presentation
God Is One: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit
This PowerPoint accompanies Unit 1, Chapter 1 by discussing the mystery of the Trinity.
Presentation
What Is Faith?
This PowerPoint reflects on faith and how it ties in with religion and beliefs.
Presentation
Being Human
This PowerPoint reflects on what it means to be human and uses Jesus as the model of how to live well.
Presentation
The Parables of Jesus
This PowerPoint presents images of some of Jesus’ parables and asks students to reflect on and recall each one.
Presentation
The Greatest Commandment
This PowerPoint looks at the Greatest Commandment and how it summarizes all of Jesus’ teachings.
Presentation
Revelation
This PowerPoint discusses and gives examples of ways that humans discover God.
Presentation
God’s Existence
This PowerPoint presents common questions and doubts about the existence of God before showing the way to sources that provide guidance.
Presentation
Mystery of the Trinity: God Is Three-in-One
This PowerPoint identifies the three persons of the Trinity.
Presentation
The Development of Catholic Trinitarian Theology
This PowerPoint covers the development of Trinitarian Theology during the early church.
Presentation
The Trinity: Unpacking the Nicene Creed
This PowerPoint reflects on the statements of faith in the Trinity found in the Nicene Creed.
Saint Tarasius of Constantinople (c.730-806)
Saint Tarasius of Constantinople was given the high honor of acting as consul and secretary of state to Emperor Constantine IV and his mother, Empress Irene. Although he held positions of prestige and power, he led the simple life of …
Saint Peter Damian (1007-1072)
Saint Peter Damian was very young when he was orphaned and sent to live with his brother. However, his brother mistreated him so badly that he went to live with his other brother, Damian, who was a priest in Ravenna, …
Saint Conrad of Piacenza (c.1290-1351)
Saint Conrad of Piacenza was born into a noble family and married the daughter of a nobleman. One day, while Conrad was out on a hunting trip, he ordered his guides to set fire to a pile of brush in …
Saint Flavian of Constantinople (d.449)
Saint Flavian was the patriarch of Constantinople around the year 446. He received harsh treatment from the imperial court when he declined to bribe Emperor Theodosius II to keep his position, and made Theodosius's sister a deaconess against the emperor's …
Saint Alexis Falconieri (1200-1310)
Saint Alexis Falconieri was one of the seven founders of the Servants of Mary, or Servite Order. Alexis and six friends joined the Confraternity of the Blessed Virgin in 1225. As they were assembled on the Feast of the Assumption …
Saint Onesimus (1st century)
Saint Onesimus was the slave of two Colossian Christians, Saints Philemon and Apphia. While enslaved, Onesimus committed a crime and escaped punishment from his masters by running away to Rome. While in Rome, he met Saint Paul, who baptized him …
Saint Claude la Colombière (1641-1682)
Saint Claude la Colombière heard God's call early on to join religious life. He joined the Jesuits, and was educated in Lyons, France, at a Jesuit college. Claude had a special devotion to the Sacred Heart of Jesus. The Sacred …
Saint Catherine de Ricci (1522-1590)
Saint Catherine de Ricci exhibited a great love of prayer and a deep devotion to Jesus from a very young age. When she was six years old, her father allowed her to join the convent of Monticelli in Florence, where …
Saint Julian the Hospitaller (unknown)
Saint Julian the Hospitaller married a wealthy widow. While hunting in the woods, a deer predicted that Julian would kill his parents. Greatly troubled by this premonition, Julian and his wife moved far away from his family. One day, while …
Saint Paschal (d.824)
Saint Paschal studied at the Lateran Basilica in Rome and became a Benedictine monk. He was put in charge of Saint Stephen's Monastery, which was near the Vatican and accommodated pilgrims to Rome. Paschal succeeded Pope Stephen IV, and was …
Saint Scholastica (480-c.543)
Saint Scholastica shared a love of God and a vocation to religious life with her twin brother, Saint Benedict. The twins established religious communities within five miles of each other. Scholastica and Benedict met once a year in a neighboring …
Saint Theodore Stratelates (d.319)
Saint Theodore Stratelates was a Christian general during a time of persecution. When his faith was exposed, a military panel concluded that he was a respectable soldier who had simply made the mistake of becoming a Christian. They told him …
Saint Paul Miki (d.1597)
Saint Paul Miki felt called to religious life as a young man. He was educated by the Jesuits and entered their order. He became a very successful preacher and evangelist. When Japan's political climate became unfriendly to Christianity, Paul was …
Saint Agatha (d.251)
Saint Agatha's story is similar to the story of Saint Agnes. She was born into a wealthy family, and was well-known for her beauty. Agatha consecrated her life and her virginity to God, and rejected suitors who wished to marry …
Saint Joseph of Leonessa (1556-1612)
Saint Joseph was born in Leonessa, Italy, and felt called to religious life. He joined the Capuchins in his home town, and began living a life of simplicity and penance. He went without large meals and accommodating living quarters, and …
Saint Joan de Lestonnac (d.1640)
Saint Joan de Lestonnac was born in Bordeaux, France, in 1556. She was happily married with four children, until her husband tragically passed away. After his passing, Joan singlehandedly ran her home and estate. When her children were grown and …
Saint Brigid of Ireland (c.452-524)
Saint Brigid was the daughter of an Irish king and a Christian slave woman. She was known for her joy, kindness, and compassion toward the poor. Brigid could not stand to see anyone suffering, so she frequently gave away her …
Saint John Bosco (1815-1888)
John Bosco was an educator who started schools and eventually a religious order called the Salesians. Saint John Bosco believed in educating the whole person, not just the mind but also the body and the soul. Though he trained young …
Saint Hyacintha of Mariscotti (1585-1640)
When Saint Hyacintha of Mariscotti's younger sister married before she did, she became so jealous that she made herself, as well as her family, miserable. Her actions became so intolerable that her family sent her off to a Franciscan convent. …
Saint Gildas the Wise (c.500-570)
Saint Gildas the Wise was cared for and educated at a monastery. He became friends with many exceptional men who would one day become saints, and he excelled in the classroom. Gildas became a monk, and moved to Ireland to …
Saint Angela Merici (1470-1540)
As a young woman, Saint Angela Merici felt called to life in a religious order and became a member of the Third Order of Saint Francis. In the order, she lived a very simple life, owning nothing. It greatly troubled …
Saint Timothy (1st century)
Saint Timothy was born to a Greek father and a Jewish mother. His grandmother, Lois, was the first member of the family to convert to Christianity. Timothy converted to the faith through the ministry of Saint Paul, and joined him …
Saint John the Almoner (d.619)
Saint John's early life is one that many of us can relate to. He married, became a father, and lived a normal life with his family. Sadly, disease took his wife and child. After this tragedy, John felt called to …
Saint Agnes (d.304)
Saint Agnes made a pledge to God, whom she called her heavenly Spouse, that she would remain a consecrated virgin throughout her life. Agnes was very beautiful, and many young men wanted to marry her. In order to keep her …
Saint Fabian (d.250)
Saint Fabian was a farmer near Rome who traveled into the city one day as the clergy and townspeople were getting ready to elect a new pope. Tradition tells us that when Fabian arrived to watch the election a dove …
Saint Charles of Sezze (1613-1670)
Saint Charles was born in Sezze, which is southeast of Rome. He was inspired to join the Franciscans and held small, humble jobs in the order. Examples of these positions included cook, porter, sacristan, gardener, and beggar. When Charles's superior …
Saint Berard (d.1220)
Saint Berard was born to a family of Italian nobles. He became a Franciscan monk, and was welcomed into the order by Saint Francis of Assisi himself. Berard was part of a missionary party assigned by Saint Francis to travel …
Saint Paul the Hermit (c.230-342)
Saint Paul the Hermit was raised in a well-to-do Christian family. He was well educated and could speak both Greek and Egyptian. Sadly, he was orphaned at the age of 15. When the persecutions of Decius broke out a few …
Saint Sava (1174-1237)
Saint Sava was born a prince of Serbia. He felt called to a life outside the royal court, and became a monk at Mount Athos. His father, King Stephen I, later gave up his throne and joined Sava in the …
Saint Hilary of Poitiers (c.315-368)
Saint Hilary was born to a wealthy pagan family in France. He married, became the father of a daughter named Abra, and studied on his own. Through his studies he experienced a faith conversion. He began to study the Bible, …
Saint Marguerite Bourgeoys (1620-1700)
Saint Marguerite Bourgeoys was the sixth of 12 children born to her religious parents. When Marguerite was 19 years old her mother passed away, leaving Marguerite to look after her family and household. When her brothers and sisters were grown …
Saint Theodosius the Cenobiarch (423-529)
Saint Theodosius was born to a religious family. He began his education at a young age and followed the example of Abraham by leaving home to follow God. He met and worked with Saints Simeon Stylites and Longinus the Centurian …
Saint Peter Orseolo (928-987)
Saint Peter Orseolo was born into a wealthy family. He married and he and his wife had a son. Peter served as admiral and commander of the Venetian navy before being appointed doge of Venice. This position was one of …
Saint Raymond of Peñafort (1175-1275)
Saint Raymond of Peñafort was born to Aragonian nobility in Spain and was well educated. He taught philosophy and received doctoral degrees in both canon law and civil law. At the age of 41, he joined the Dominicans. He was …
Saint André Bessette (1845-1937)
Saint André Bessette was one of 12 children born to a French Canadian couple who lived near Montreal. He was adopted at the age of 12 after both of his parents passed away. He held odd jobs to contribute to …
Saint Genevieve (d.500)
Saint Genevieve was born around the year 422 in a village near Paris. When she was around seven years old, Saint Germain came to her village to preach against the heresy of Pelagius. While listening to his preaching, he singled …
Saint Sylvester I (d.335)
Saint Sylvester I was pope during the reign of Emperor Constantine I, after the persecutions and terror of Diocletian. He was pope during important events such as the proclamation of the Edict of Milan, the rise of the Catholic Church …
Saint Thomas Becket (1118-1170)
Saint Thomas Becket was appointed chancellor of England by his friend, King Henry II. King Henry selected Thomas with the hope that he could encroach on Church affairs. However, Thomas warned Henry that their friendship did not guarantee that he …
Saint Eugenia (d.258)
Saint Eugenia's life is shrouded in mystery. She is said to have been the daughter of Duke Philip of Alexandria, the governor of Egypt during the time of Emperor Valerian. According to legend, Eugenia ran away from home dressed as …
Saint John Kanty (1390-1473)
Saint John Kanty was born in Poland and studied at the University of Cracow. He then became a professor of theology at his alma mater. However, John's tenure didn't last long. His fellow professors were jealous of his popularity, and …
Saint Peter Canisius (1521-1597)
Peter Canisius was an extremely hard-working person. At the young age of 19, he earned his master's degree from the University at Cologne. Soon after completing his degree, he became acquainted with Peter Faber, who influenced him to join the …
Saint Dominic of Silos (1000-1073)
Saint Dominic of Silos was born into a Spanish peasant family around the year 1000. He spent a considerable amount of time in the fields as a young boy working to support his family and enjoying time alone. He felt …
Saint Anastasius I (d.401)
Saint Anastasius I was a Roman by birth, but very little is known about his early life. He was elected pope in 399 and began his papacy by condemning the works of Origen. His mistrust of Origen began after he …
Saint Jose Manyanet y Vives (1833-1901)
Saint Jose Manyanet y Vives was born into a large, religious family. He was dedicated to Our Lady at the age of five by his mother, and was ordained into the priesthood several years later. Jose founded the Congregation of …
Saint Adelaide (931-999)
Saint Adelaide married King Otto of Germany after her first husband passed away. After Otto's death, Adelaide had a rocky relationship with her son, Otto II, most likely due to the hateful nature of his wife, Theophano. When Otto II …
Saint Lucy (c.283-c.304)
Saint Lucy is a beloved saint in Rome and Sicily. She died a martyr around the year 304. She gave herself totally to Christ in all things. The reading for her feast points to pure speech and service to the …
Saint Damasus I (c.305-384)
Saint Damasus I was appointed pope after the death of Pope Liberius. However, a minority in Rome appointed another man, Ursinus, as pope. This caused a controversy that resulted in violence and scandal. During the papacy of Damasus, Christianity was …
Saint Gregory III (d.741)
Saint Gregory III was not intending on taking over the papacy when Saint Gregory II passed away. He was part of the crowd that was mourning the loss of the pope during his funeral procession, when someone recognized him as …
Saint Nicholas (d.346)
Saint Nicholas was a bishop, and bishops are often referred to as the shepherds of the people of God in the Church. Accounts credit Saint Nicholas with saving the lives of three daughters who were destined for prostitution because their …
Saint Sabas (439-532)
Saint Sabas was left in the care of his aunt and uncle as a child. His aunt treated him so wickedly that he ran away to live with another uncle when he was only eight years old. These two uncles …
Saint Edmund Campion (1540-1581)
Saint Edmund Campion was born in London, England. He was extremely bright, and was given a scholarship to Saint John's College, Oxford, when he was only 15 years old. Edmund was raised a Catholic, but chose to become an Anglican …
Saint Andrew (1st century)
Matthew tells us that Andrew was a fisherman, along with his brother Peter. In the Gospel of John, we learn that Andrew was also a disciple of John the Baptist (see 1:40). With John the Baptist, Andrew was waiting for …
Saint Radbod (d.918)
Saint Radbod lived a very quiet and holy life. He was the grandson of the last pagan king of the Frisions in the Netherlands. Radbod was raised and educated by his uncle, the bishop of Cologne. He became the bishop …
Saint James of the Marche (1391-1476)
Saint James was born in the Marche of Ancona in Italy. He attended the University of Perugia, where he attained doctorates in canon law and civil law. After he earned his degrees, he felt called to join the Franciscans and …
Saint Francesco Antonio Fasani (1681-1742)
Saint Francesco Antonio Fasani was born in Lucera, Italy. He was a very devout child and entered the order of Conventual Franciscans, taking the name Francis. He was ordained 10 years later and taught philosophy to younger friars in the …
Saint Conrad (d.975)
Saint Conrad was born into a prominent Guelph family. He received an education at the Cathedral School at Constance and was ordained a priest. Conrad was appointed provost of the cathedral and was then selected bishop of Constance. He was …
Saint Catherine of Alexandria (d.305)
Saint Catherine is thought to have been born in Alexandria to a noble family. She converted to Christianity after she had a life-altering vision. Catherine criticized Emperor Maxentius for his persecution of Christians. In an attempt to sway Catherine away …
Saint Columban (543-615)
Saint Columban was a famous Irish missionary. Columban received a good education, and resolved to live a life of simplicity and abstinence. However, he began to worry that this might not be possible because he was tempted by the pretty …
Saint Cecilia (2nd century)
Saint Cecilia is the patron saint of musicians, singers, and poets. She lived in the second century and died a martyr. Although not much is known about her, a fifth-century legend holds that she had taken a vow of virginity, …
Saint Edmund the Martyr (c.841-870)
Saint Edmund the Martyr was the king of Norfolk and Suffolk in England in the ninth century. Exact details about his life are fuzzy. It is known that Edmund defended his people against Danish invaders and was killed when the …
Saint Agnes of Assisi (1197-1253)
Saint Agnes was the sister of Saint Clare, and also her first follower. At first, her family disapproved of her choice, and tried to bring her back home. However, when they tried to take her from the monastery, her body …
Saint Gertrude (1256-1301)
Saint Gertrude was born at Eisleben, Saxony, in 1256. She was entrusted to the care of Benedictine nuns at the age of five. When she grew up, she became a Benedictine nun herself, and was elected abbess of the monastery …
Saint Albert the Great (1206-1280)
Saint Albert the Great was born in 1206 to a wealthy and powerful German family. He was well educated, and despite disapproval from his family he joined the Dominicans. He was an educator at Paris and at Cologne, and had …
Saint Laurence O'Toole (1128-1180)
Saint Laurence O'Toole was born in the year 1128 in Ireland. At the age of 10 he became the hostage of one of his father's enemies and brought to the king of Leinster, who mistreated him. After two years of …
Saint Josaphat (c.1580-1623)
This saint, who was a bishop and martyr, spent his life working for the unity of all Christians. He was a reform-minded bishop who brought order and proper procedure into his diocese. Josephat also helped bring the Eastern Church of …
Saint Martin of Tours (c.316-397)
Saint Martin became a Christian at the age of 18. Even though his father was a military officer, Martin believed that Christians were not allowed to kill. He became a conscientious objector, even though he was imprisoned for refusing to …
Saint Benen (d.467)
Saint Benen was the son of an Irish chieftain. He was baptized by Saint Patrick, and was so enraptured by him and his work that he asked the saint if he could accompany him on his travels as a missionary. …
Saint Godfrey (c.1066-c.1115)
Saint Godfrey started his monastic life at a very young age. He was raised from the age of five in the Benedictine Abbey of Mont-Saint-Quentin, where his godfather was abbot. He was given his own tiny habit, and lived life …
Saint Willibrord (658-739)
Saint Willibrord was born in England in 658. He felt called to spread the Good News through missionary work in Germany. With great zeal and enthusiasm, he followed his call and constructed churches and an abbey. Willibrord was experiencing great …
Saint Winoc (d.717)
Saint Winoc was brought up and educated in Brittany. He is said to have possible noble lineage. He was called to become a monk at Saint Peter's monastery at Sithiu under Abbot Saint Bertin. He and three companions founded a …
Saint Sylvia (d.593)
Saint Sylvia was the mother of Saint Gregory the Great. When Sylvia's husband passed away, her son Gregory converted their home into a monastery. Silvia was then able to retire to a life of solitude in a small home in …
Saint Charles Borromeo (1538-1584)
Saint Charles was a bishop in Milan, Italy. His appointment as bishop was delayed because the Council of Trent needed his skill as a behind-the-scenes leader when serious disagreements occurred—something he could not offer if he had been a bishop …
Solemnity of All Saints
Naming people “saints” acknowledges that they led holy lives, did the work of God, and are now with God. A saint is anyone who lives with God, whether officially recognized or not. (Taken from "Good News Day by Day: Bible …
