The "Heart's Image" of Pain & Redemption
]]>The "Heart's Image" of Pain & Redemption
The Pieta is a famous 15th Century Renaissance marble sculpture created by Michelangelo Buonarroti in Rome at age 25. It sits in the first Chapel of Saint Peter’s Basilica near the Holy Door adjacent to Saint Sebastian’s Altar. It shows the veneration of the Blessed Virgin Mary’s lamentation of her son, Jesus whom she is shown holding close to her heart after his death. The Pieta was commissioned by French Cardinal Jean de Bilheres in 1498. It has been damaged many times, most notably in 1972 when a lunatic, Hungarian–born Australian, Laszlo Toth, attacked the Pieta with a geologist’s hammer while proclaiming, “I am Jesus Christ and I have risen from the dead.” Michelangelo sculpted Mary with youthful incorrupt beauty, rationalizing that her chaste life kept her young. When Michelangelo overheard someone saying the Pieta was made by another artist, he carved his name on the sash of Mary’s garments, leaving little doubt that it was his creation. In 1964 the Pieta was loaned by Pope John XXIII, (“JP23”) to the New York World’s Fair. Francis Cardinal Spellman requested it and millions lined up to see the sculpture in the borough of Queens, New York. Although the Pieta has been damaged it has always been meticulously restored. Mary’s eyelid was once broken and it took over 20 tries to restore it perfectly! © 2020
Saint Johannes XXIII story took place very recently, not too long ago, like most of our other saint stories. Johannes was born into an Italian peasant family. During World War I he served in the medical corps and also as a Chaplain. After the war ended, Johannes worked in Rome, where he edited “The Society for the Propagation of the Faith.” He became an Archbishop and was known for his skills with diplomacy and helped mediate the liberal and conservative factions of the clergy. In 1958, he was elected Pope and truly was a “Pope for the People,” all people, including the poor, the infirm, and those marginalized and outcast by society. Johannes was a strong opponent and voice against Communism. He was a true Socialist, fighting for a “living wage” and security to benefit all members of society. He was known as one of the most loved Popes of Modern times. Earlier this year, on April 27, 2014, Pope Johannes XXIII became a Saint when he was Canonized by Pope Francis I, along with Saint John Paul II. We were proud to witness the event in Rome. Millions of people flocked to Rome for the Papal Pilgrimage honoring our 2 newest Saints. © 2014
Paulina was born in the 19th Century in Italy with the birth name of Amabelle Lucia Visintainer. In 1875, she emigrated to Brazil with her family, and soon began taking care of sick children and the elderly. Along with one of her faithful companions, Teresa Maule, she created the Congregation of the Little Sisters of the Immaculate Conception. When she took her vows and became a Nun she selected Paulina of the Agonizing Heart of Jesus as her name. She was a dutiful worker, was often promoted, and eventually became a Superior General. She was known for aiding the elderly and former slaves, discarded because they had become too sick and old to perform any meaningful work. She moved on and worked for the sick and elderly at the Hospice of Saint Vincent de Paul. Later in life she spent her time caring for the sick Sisters of her Congregation. Her health began to suffer and it was determined that she was experiencing the onset of diabetes. She remained steadfast and dedicated to the elderly throughout her life and after her death from diabetes in 1942, Paulina received the distinction of becoming the first Brazilian Citizen to be Canonized as a Saint. She is invoked for proper care to the elderly and is known as the Patroness of the diabetes. [This Story is Dedicated to Mr. Douglas Robertson] © 2009
Pancras (known as Pancrazio) was orphaned while very young. He was brought to Rome by his Uncle who later became Saint Dionysius. Pancras was a willing convert to Christianity and vocal in proclaiming his Faith. He was captured and brought to Emperor Diocletian who implored Pancras to perform acts inconsistent with his Faith. Pancras refused and was then beheaded, becoming an early martyr of the 4th Century. His remains were recovered and he was buried in Rome, near the Catacombs. Pancras’ head was placed in a reliquary of a place known now as the Basilica of Saint Pancrazio. When the English began to convert to Christianity, some of Pancras’ relics were transferred to England. Many churches are named after him in the UK. Pancras is invoked against bearing “false witness against thy neighbor.” In other words, Pancras is a patron for protection from liars. He is also known to protect against cramps and headaches. Wear Saint Pancras for help with embellishers. He will keep your cramps and headaches from becoming too severe. © 2015
The story took place not too long ago. Faustina was born in the early 20th Century in 1905, as Elena Kowalska in Glogowiec, Poland. She wanted to become a Nun but was originally rejected by numerous religious orders. In 1925, she finally entered into the Congregation of the Sisters of Our Lady of Mercy in Warsaw, Poland. She had a special affinity for the Blessed Virgin and an intrinsically mystical belief in the concept of Reconciliation. Sister Faustina began experiencing visions and also began receiving the Stigmata, the wounds of Jesus Christ. She wrote about her experiences but since she was not formally schooled, and nearly illiterate, her translations were not well-received in Rome and refuted. However, when the future Pope John Paul II, Karol Wojtyla Kowalska, became an Archbishop in Poland, some of Faustina’s followers asked him to take another look at her writings. A kinder translation of her prose was then produced and this time, her writings earned the respect of the leaders in Rome. Its title is The Divine Mercy in My Soul, and like Saint Catherine of Siena’s The Dialog, it is considered by many to be a masterpiece. Saints Catherine and Faustina are two shining examples of strong women who could not be deterred by their lack of formal education. Faustina’s preeminently kindhearted and idealistic goal of invoking God’s Mercy on all the sinners in the world, leaves us honored to have her story added to our collection. We are eternally grateful to our friend Jo Ann in Prairieville, Louisiana, for alerting us about her exemplary life! © 2013
She was born in the 12th Century, in Hungary. She was exiled after the conquest of England by the Normans. A storm wound up diverting their ship to Scotland and she later became known as the “Pearl of Scotland.” She was a niece of Saint Stephen and another Uncle was Edward the Confessor. While married in Scotland to King Malcolm III, she had 6 children; hence her name is often associated those from larger families. She was very well-read and wrote a Book on the Gospels of Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John. The book was lost in a river, yet long after, recovered virtually intact! It is available for viewing to this day on Oxford. She led the people of Scotland in effort to build the Abbey of Dunfermline, and other churches in Scotland as well. She led a pious life and was known for helping the poor and those afflicted with illness. She is said to have known the date of her death, which occurred only days after the death of her husband in battle. In the 13th Century she was Canonized by Pope Innocent IV and she is forever revered in Scotland as one who offers help to the oppressed, known as Saint Margaret’s Hope.© 2016
Blessed Junipero Serra’s story took place long ago. His name, roughly translated means “Jester of God.” On the west coast, it was Father Serra who began the foundation of the Catholic Church. Junipero founded over 20 missions and converted many Native Americans. His name is also the namesake of the “Serra Club,” a group dedicated to fostering the growth of spiritual vocations, especially religious novices. Father Serra was beatified in 1988 and is currently awaiting Canonization. If you know of any just cause attributed to Father Serra, contact The Cause of Padre Serra, Old Mission, Santa Barbara, 2201 Laguna Street, Santa Barbara, California 93105. © 2007
Our Lady of Guadalupe’s story began In 1531. A man named Juan Diego was on his way to Mass. Before he arrived at the Church, Our Lady, the Blessed Virgin appeared. She asked for a temple to be built and told Juan to ask Bishop Zumarraga for help. When Juan met the Bishop, he was skeptical and said he needed a “sign” from Our Lady. Juan left and went to look after his dying Uncle. When his Uncle was close to death, Juan went to find a Priest. Our Lady again appeared to Juan, completely cured his Uncle, and told Juan to go gather roses. He found roses and brought them to Our Lady in his tilma. Our Lady took the tilma with its roses and placed them under cover. She instructed Juan to bring the roses to the Bishop. When the Bishop opened the tilma, he saw shining a beautiful artistic image of Our Lady and started praying immediately. A sign had been given. If you ever need a special favor, Look at an image of Our Lady, Believe in her, and Ask for the favor. It will be granted! © 2006
Hidegard of Bingen lived in the 11th and 12th Centuries in what is now known as Germany. She began experiencing visions at an early age and her family sent her to a monastery where she was fortunate to learn languages, including Latin. She possessed a wide ranging intellect, was able to compose music and write a trilogy that includes the “Book of the Life of Merits” and “Book of the Divine Works.” Her writings included anecdotes about her visions, delved into the meaning of scripture, and also included plays and musical scores, many of which are still performed today. She was a brilliant correspondent and her letters have survived and impart a sense of modern day feminism. She exhorted the values of women bonding together with their works and lives. Her visions often had females as the central characters. Her writings were exemplary for a female and probably better than most the treatises of men during her time period. She was considerably bold and wrote text about menstrual cramps and gynecology! She was designated by Pope Benedict XVI as the 4th female Doctor of the Church. This means her writings are revered and her teachings carry considerable weight in Catholicism today! © 2018 For Cayla
Bernadette Soubrious was a young girl who worked in the fields near Lourdes, France corralling animals as a shepherdess. One day she was out gathering sticks and wood to be used to make a fire when Our Lady of Lourdes, the Blessed Mother, appeared to her with a Rosary, and reciting a version of her now well known prayer, “Hail Mary, Full of Grace, the Lord is with Thee, Blessed are Thou among Women and Blessed is the Fruit of Thy Womb, Jesus. Holy Mary, Mother of God, Pray for us Sinners, Now and at the Hour of our Death.” Mother Mary appeared to Bernadette 18 times and she helped Bernadette locate a hidden spring of water in Lourdes. Millions have made pilgrimages to the area and many comforts have been received due to the aura of the land and its effervescent springs. Bernadette is a venerable and popular saint. Some describe her as an “icon.” Her story has been translated into a number of books and a film about her, “The Song of Bernadette” is said to be one of the most beautiful stories ever told. © 2006
Agnus Dei, The “Lamb of God,” is the Invocation sung, recited, or read as, “This is the Lamb of God. Happy are those who are Called to His Supper.” Steeped in Ritual, the Lamb of God is known to protect all from storm and pestilence, the ravages of fires and floods, the dangers inherent in pregnancy, childbirth and protecting and preserving life itself. Agnus Dei, the Lamb of God shall prevent and hinder all malign influence. © 2020
Scholastica’s story took place long ago. She was a devoted Nun and the brother of the man who became Saint Benedict. Scholastica went to see her brother and others, planning to spend time together talking about Jesus and Spirituality. They did this until Benedict announced he was tired and ready to sleep. Scholastica was disappointed and asked him to visit longer but he declined. Scholastica’s feelings were hurt so she started to pray to God. All of a sudden, a tremendous storm erupted. Benedict became alarmed and insinuated that God must be furious with her, but Scholastica set him straight saying something like, “No, God is just spending time with me, something you will not do. And God has said what he has to say about that!” Scholastica told her brother to go to his bunk and sleep. But Benedict knew he should not do that and he and stayed with Scholastica and talked about Holy things all night long. A few days later, Benedict saw Scholastica’s body rise up, turn into a dove, and fly to Heaven. Pray to Scholastica if friends or family say they are too busy to visit, or when you think you are to busy to visit others! © 2006
He lived in the 14th Century during the time when there existed a great schism in the Church. Contra Popes led in Rome and Avignon and Vincent was a follower of Luna, historically known as Pope Benedict. Yet Vincent, a Dominican Friar, was a man who wanted to bridge the gap in the church and he urged Benedict to be a part of the reconciliation, to no avail. When the Council of Constance failed to yield a resolution of unity for the Church, Vincent knew it was time to relinquish his solidarity with Pope Benedict. Like Saint Catherine of Siena, Vincent was a great mediator. His way was one of simplicity and he thought that pursuing ideals with charitable and loving heart was the path to converting fractions. This is probably why he is known as the “Angel of Judgment.” There is a magnificent statue of Saint Vincent, along with Procopius, on the bridge of the Charles River in Prague, Czech Republic. © 2017
Uriel’s story took place very long ago. His name means “God is my Light” and he is often described as the 4th Angel, following Gabriel, Michael and Raphael. Uriel is prominent in Christianity and Judaism. He is the Angel of Repentance. Some say Uriel is one of the Angels who will rule at the end of the world. He is believed to be one of the Angels who helped bury Adam and Eve in Eden. Some declare him to be the Angel of Mars. Uriel represents the arts and poetry and when we learn more about him, we will add to this story of the Angel Uriel, but for now, we need to get his hand-painted medal to Arden, North Carolina, where he has been summoned by the Calloways. © 2019
Thomas the Apostle (called Didymus which means "the twin,” or Mar Thoma in Syriac) was one of the Twelve Apostles of Jesus Christ, according to the New Testament. He is informally called Doubting Thomas because he doubted Jesus' resurrection when first told (in the Gospel of John account only), followed later by his confession of faith, "My Lord and my God,” on seeing Jesus' wounded body.
Traditionally, he is said to have travelled outside the Roman Empire to preach the Gospel, travelling as far as Tamilakam which are the states of Tamil Nadu and Kerala in present-day India.[2][4][5][6] According to tradition, Thomas reached Muziris, (modern-day North Paravur and Kodungalloor in the state of Kerala, India) in 52 CE and baptized several people, founding what today are known as Saint Thomas Christians or Mar Thoma Nazranis. After his death, the reputed relics of Saint Thomas the Apostle were enshrined as far as Mesopotamia in the 3rd century, and later moved to various places.[7] In 1258, some of the relics were brought to Abruzzo in Ortona, Italy, where they have been held in the Church of Saint Thomas the Apostle.[8] He is often regarded as the Patron Saint of India,[9][10] and the name Thoma remains quite popular among Saint Thomas Christians of India. ©1998
Theodore was revered in the Eastern Orthodox Church and known as a dragon slayer. A crocodile is at his feet, meant to represent a dragon. He is the first patron Saint of Venezia, or Venice, Italy. At the Chapel of Doge, his statue was celebrated until the Byzantium Empire fell in disfavor and Saint Mark’s became the emblematic figure of Venice. Both statue columns took many years to be raised and lifted upright. Their placement was finally completed by the local engineer, Niccolo Barattieri. There is a tale that lifelong residents of Venice, to this day, will not walk between the two statues of Saint Mark and Saint Theodore because the area between the columns was the spot where public executions were held. Saint Theodore is traditionally celebrated on the first Saturday of the Lenten Season. After a long fasting period, the Clergy would commemorate the Holiday of Saint Theodore by serving Kolyva, boiled wheat, with honey and raisins. The theory was that since the worshippers had been fasting, it was best to prepare a mild dietary food for the body to absorb without difficulty. In France, at the Chartres Cathedral, there is a stained glass window with 38 panels, all celebrating the life and the curious story of Saint Theodore. ©2019
Tarcisius was born in the 3rd Century, and while very young, he often volunteered to help the Church. The Deacons would typically bring the Holy Eucharist to local prisoners but one day there were no Deacons available for the job. So, Tarcisius was asked to bring the Blessed Sacrament to the prison and he gladly volunteered. While on his way, he encountered a throng of young rogues, children who bullied him and tried to take the Eucharist. Tarcisius was heroic and refused to let the other boys steal the Blessed Sacrament. He was then beaten and died weeks later from his injuries. Pope Damasus compared Tarcisius to the Martyr Saint Stephen, who was stoned to death. Tarcisius was a loyal and devoted Christian who gave his life to protect the Holy Eucharist. It is said the Eucharist miraculously disappeared during his ordeal. If you go to Paris, visit the Musee d’ Orsay, to see a spectacular sculpture of Saint Tarcisius, created by the artist Alexandre Faluire, honoring the bravery of young Tarcisius. ©2012
Stephen was one of 7 Deacons chosen to help administer money to the poor and sick. He was a very articulate person and was well educated about Judaism. Scholars believe that Stephen was a Jewish convert to Christianity. Stephen found himself in trouble at one point in his life and he was brought before a court where he defended himself. Stephen’s speech was full of truth and passion but his listeners refused to listen. Their minds had been stubbornly made up before the hearing even began! When Stephen started to be effective by using reason, the hearing was disrupted, a riot ensued and Stephen was driven out of town. Rogues then rushed after him, picked up stones, and pelted Stephen to death. Even while dying, Stephen held true to his inner convictions and he spoke out to God in public prayer. Stephen asked God to forgive his murderers for stoning him to death. In most artistic renderings, Stephen is shown holding a stone, but ours has a football to honor Steve Gleason, jn his noble fight. Pray to Saint Stephen when you are faced with problems that seem larger than life. If you are forced into a situation where intellect and reason are being set aside, Saint Stephen can help you hold true to your beliefs without surrendering. “No White Flags!” © 2000, © Revised for Mr. Steve Gleason & Stephen Davus
This is the story of Stella Maris, the patroness and “Star of the Sea.” She is the patroness of Fishermen, Captains and Sailors, the Navy and the Coast Guard, divers, swimmers, lifeguards and water polo players, and all others who have occasion to be on or in the water and seas. And while she is best known for protecting people on or near the water, she also looks after all of us who sail the stormy seas of life. Pray to Stella Maris, the Star of the Sea, whenever you feel like you are having trouble keeping your head above water. © 2008
Stanislaus Kostka was born in Poland and came from a wealthy family. He knew, from a very early age, that he wanted to join the Society of Jesus and become a Jesuit. His family was completely opposed and this caused him to have severe doubts about his desire to join the Church. His doubt subsided when he was very ill and seemingly on his deathbed. Doctors believed he would die yet his family would not let him receive the Holy Sacrament. This greatly disturbed Stanislaus and he sought the intercession of Saint Barbara. Stanislaus asked Saint Barbara to help him receive Communion. Barbara sent two Angels to Stanislaus and this buttressed his conviction to join the Church. He remained very ill and the Blessed Mother appeared at his bedside with the Christ Child and Stanislaus gave the Baby a hug. Stanislaus recovered and realized that the only way he was going to get into the Church would be by running away. Stanislaus ran away and his older brother Paul quickly set out to make him come home. But Stanislaus disguised himself and eluded his brother. When the clergy met Stanislaus they knew he was worthy of their vocation. He went on a journey to Rome, planning to enter the Jesuit Order there. Stanislaus got sick again and this time the doctors felt he had a mild form of malaria. Again they were wrong. Stanislaus was very sick. It was early August and very hot. The doctors did not think he would live for another day. But Stanislaus lived to take his first vows as a Jesuit. This brought him such joy his health momentarily returned, enabling Stanislaus to survive until August 15, the date of the Assumption of Mary, the day he went heaven. His prayer had been to celebrate Mary’s Assumption by dying on her Feast Day. Pray to Stanislaus when no one will let you do what you really want to do and he will help you find a way to fulfill your dreams. ©2007
Scholastica’s story took place long ago. She was a devoted Nun and the brother of the man who became Saint Benedict. Scholastica went to see her brother and others, planning to spend time together talking about Jesus and Spirituality. They did this until Benedict announced he was tired and ready to sleep. Scholastica was disappointed and asked him to visit longer but he declined. Scholastica’s feelings were hurt so she started to pray to God. All of a sudden, a tremendous storm erupted. Benedict became alarmed and insinuated that God must be furious with her, but Scholastica set him straight saying something like, “No, God is just spending time with me, something you will not do. And God has said what he has to say about that!” Scholastica told her brother to go to his bunk and sleep. But Benedict knew he should not do that and he and stayed with Scholastica and talked about Holy things all night long. A few days later, Benedict saw Scholastica’s body rise up, turn into a dove, and fly to Heaven. Pray to Scholastica if friends or family say they are too busy to visit, or when you think you are to busy to visit others! © 2009, for Amanda
She lived in a cave in Palermo, Italy in the 12th Century. Instead of telling Rosalie’s story, however, I would like to tell a very personal story I have about Saint Rosalie’s Church:
There is a Saint Rosalie’s Church in the hamlet of Hampton Bays, New York. I know this because it is where I received my First Holy Communion, was taught Catechism by Sarah Cunliffe and was Confirmed with my Grandfather, Paul “Baba” Clemenz as my proud sponsor. It is also the Church where I stood as “best man” in my brother Peter’s wedding and where, as a child, I slept through my sister, Mary Ellen’s wedding. But the most meaningful thing I remember about Saint Rosalie’s Church occurred on Monday, April 30, 1973. I was 13 years old. In the early morning hours, I walked up Fanning Avenue to go to “Thompson’s Foodtown.” There was a shorter way to get there by going over the railroad tracks but I went the long way that day. At the store I met my neighbor and my mother’s best friend, Mrs. Agnes Micari, who lovingly took my order at the deli and surely gave me more food than the sales slip indicated. I then went to Saint Rosalie’s, entered the “old part” of the Church, lit a candle and prayed. Father Flynn came along, saw me with a very large bag and asked “What are you doing?” and “Why aren’t you in school?” I then told him my mother died the night before. He held me tight and cried with me. I remember not understanding why he was so upset, but of course, I understand his feelings now, all too well. There are also so many happy memories in my heart about Saint Rosalie’s, but they are not all about the momentous occasions described above. The greatest thing about Saint Rosalie’s, to me and, I think to my Mom too, was... Bingo! As a boy, if I pleaded hard enough, my mother, a true Bingo fan, would let me come along and play. But I would always insist on playing too many Bingo boards, eating too many hot dogs, drinking too many sodas and eventually, wound up sleeping before the final game. So, my Mom and Mr. Stephen Micari would agree, “Robert is never coming to Bingo again!” That was not really true though and the pattern repeated itself endlessly it seems. I spent so many happy Monday nights at Saint Rosalie’s with my mom and the Micaris’ playing Bingo. It may sound odd but I could never fairly describe how much those memories mean to me. Sarah Cunliffe still selflessly devotes her time at Saint Rosalie’s and I am proud to say my sister-in-law, Kathleen Clemenz, was a dedicated Eucharistic Minister there. Saint Rosalie’s has grown and expanded but in my heart it is simply the place where my mother took me to play Bingo and the place where a kind Priest held a young boy in need of comfort when his mother died. Attend Saint Rosalie’s Church and you too will find comfort. © 1998
Phillip is known as The Apostle of Rome and was true patron of the people. Phillip was one of those folks who could easily talk to anyone, regardless of their social status, formal education, or lack thereof. He was as comfortable with the criminals, womanizers and n’ere do wells who sought his company as he was with the Dukes and Noblemen who also sought his sage counsel. He was a cheerful person who believed in the notion that a “joyful heart” was closer to being perfect than one that was downcast. One day, Phillip was deep in prayer and a miracle occurred. Phillip had a vision that a ball of fire had entered his mouth and enlarged his loving heart. Two ribs were broken to make room for his enlarged heart which was filled with spirit, love, joy, and cheer. Phillip created the Congregation of the Orator. It is a special Order with 3 classes of members: Novices, Triennials, and Decennials and a member is required to attain the age of 36 before making application to join. Phillip is widely known as a Miracle Worker and could read a person’s mind to learn of their sins before they even confessed! He was able to convert 30 misguided youth simultaneously with his hopeful way of life. His optimism enriched many people in the 16th Century and his Order continues to do so today.
Our Lady of Czestochowa’s story began in the 14th Century. Our Lady of Czestochowa is actually a painting that Luke the Apostle painted on a cyprus table in the home of the Holy Family. It has travelled from Jerusalem to Constantinople and many other places. The original version is located in Poland although many other people have also copied the painting. King John II Casimar Vasa crowned Our Lady as the “Black Madonna” and protector of Poland. A fleur-de-lis can be found on Our Lady’s veil. In the United States, the National Shrine of Our Lady of Czestochowa is located in Doyleston, Pennsylvania.©2010
The tale began in the early seventeenth century when three Cuban boys travelled across the Bay of Nipe to bring salt to a local slaughterhouse whose meat fed the copper miners near Santiago. During their journey to Santiago, a dangerous storm struck the Bay, causing the waves to become so rough that the boys were unlikely to survive the voyage. In an abrupt turn of events, the brutal currents subsided, and the boys were able to see a small white object floating towards them on a wooden raft. When the object reached the boys, they discovered that it was a statue of the Virgin Mary holding baby Jesus and a golden cross. The phrase “Yo soy la Virgin de la Caridad” was carved into the wood. As the legend holds, the statue and the raft were completely dry despite the severity of the storm.
When the boys returned to their home of Barajaguas, a chapel was built there to honor Our Lady of Charity. Later, an official sanctuary was constructed in the mining town of El Cobre, which remains a popular destination for pilgrims to this day. Nuestra Señora de la Caridad continues to serve as an icon of the Cuban people and their independence. ©2018
In 1830, Mother Mary appeared in a vision to a child, Catherine Laboure, and told her that she wanted a special medal set and cast. Catherine held true to Mother Mary’s Mission and relayed the story of her vision to The Daughters of Charity in Paris, France. In 1832 the medal was created. It is perhaps the most symbolic religious medal of all time and is revered by millions throughout the world. Around the outside of the Miraculous Medal are the words, “Mary, Conceived without Sin Pray for Us who have Recourse to Thee.” The center of the medal shows Mother Mary standing upon the globe with the date of Sister Catherine Laboure’s vision. The back of the medal is also fascinating. It includes 12 stars, believed to be representations for the 12 Apostles. Also included is the letter “M” for Mother Mary. Encrypted above is the cross and encrypted below are the hearts of Mother Mary and Jesus. The Miraculous Medal is a symbol of Faith and the Power of Trusting Prayer. It is designed to celebrate the Immaculate Conception of Mary, the Mother of the Church and the Mother of us all. It is said that those who wear the Miraculous Medal, and especially, those who wear it around their neck, will receive great graces. Wear the Miraculous Medal to celebrate the Immaculate Conception and to recognize what is truly the most beautiful name of all, Mother “Mary.” © 2006
Leonard was born in the 6th Century. He lived for a time in Orleans, but is best known as “Saint Leonard of Port Maurice.” In his younger years, he lived a solitary life, much like a hermit, a vegetarian subsisting off the grid, on only fruits and berries. God was the mere witness to his quiet life. Later, he became a Franciscan Friar with a great gift for eloquence. His preaching could not be held at church, because there were too few pews for listeners to gather. So, he resorted to sharing his ideas in the public square where all could hear. He was most inclined to speak to the sinners with a goal of a venue of venture toward the path of conversion. He is known as the patron of prisoners, political or otherwise, and is oft invoked for their liberty from confinement. His message often being that the pious souls could leave because his Sermon was not meant for them. But this never deterred the people from flocking to hear Leonard! One of his more famous oratories has become known as “The Little Number of Those Who Are Saved.” He would reach out to the prisoners proclaiming that their behavior was most like that of their enemies. When in Rome, note that Saint Leonard of Noblac is the 2nd saint in the 140 Saints of the Colonnade in Saint Peter’s Basilica. Saint Leonard iconography depicts a book on his medal and his statue presents with outstretched hand, perhaps proclaiming “freedom” to those unjustly captive. (For Otto Warmbier) © 2017
St. Joseph of Cupertino's story took place long ago during the 17th Century in Italy. His father died while Joseph was very young and Joseph was considerably challenged academically. He was defined a “slow learner” and often ostracized by his fellow students and even his own mother. Because he was not articulate with reasoning and logic, he was deemed a misfit and it was believed there was little hope for Joseph in life. His maladies from an early age included ulcers, probably from constantly worrying that he did not fit in with the other students who were quicker with their learning skills and soon mocked Joseph’s answer to questions when his standard response to questions was to meekly say, “I forgot.” While he was often marginalized and set apart from others, this helped Joseph to become empathetic and understanding. He often welcomed and indeed, appreciated, those less fortunate. Soon he found his way to a Franciscan Order that begrudgingly allowed him to participate. Soon, Joseph started to shine. He is often described as one who could levitate and fly. He rose above his hardships. It seems God had found a path in life for Joseph and is a shining example of the notion the “God raises up the lowly” or “the meek shall inherit the earth.” He is now revered as a patron saint of pilots, flight and levitation. Joseph is also known as a Miracle Worker, who happily looks after students struggling with their studies and test taking skills. His image often exalts the glory of flight, clearly showing we can all rise above our disabilities and meaningfully serve others. © 2017
Blessed Jose Gregorio Hernandez is not yet a saint but was venerated by Pope John Paull II, now Saint John Paul II, in 1986. Jose was Venezuelan and worked as a physician, often known to treat patients even though they could not afford to pay for his services. He lived in the late 19th Century and was a brilliant medical student. He was selected to travel to France where he expanded on his extensive medical knowledge. He was devoted to teaching, medicine and religious studies. Twice, he sought to enter the Priesthood but his poor health prevented him form being officially ordained. He was a tireless caregiver and would always go out of his way to help his patients. Sadly, he was hit by a car and died while on his way to deliver medicine to a patient in need. Many have invoked his name in prayer and healing miracles have been attributed to his name. He is well-known and revered throughout Latin America and Spain. In 2008, a Bolivian Mission was named after him, and the hospital is dedicated to helping Venezuelans with disabilities. © 2019