“It is of vital urgency to have a clear awareness of what the Cross of Christ means, of what it accomplishes in the mystery of the person," wrote Blessed Maria Concepción Cabrera Arias de Armida (feast day March 3), the first Mexican laywoman, wife, and mother to be beatified in the Catholic Church.
https://marian.org/articles/north-american-sanctity-blessed-maria-concepcion-cabrera-arias-de-armidaPope Leo XIII told St. Katherine Drexel (feast day, March 3), “Why not be a missionary yourself, my child?” And so she did, helpoing the poor and fighting racism.
Saint Gregory of Narek (feast day: Feb. 27) sought to identify with sinners in every age, and fervently interceded for us, trusting in God’s gracious mercy. Said Pope Francis, “He became ‘the intercessor of the whole world.’”
Have you every heard of Blessed Sebastián de Aparicio (1502-1600)? He is the patron saint of travelers and hailed as the “Angel of Mexico.” A handsome, smart, affluent man, he lived a life of ascetism and service to others. Later in life, he became a Franciscan friar. We celebrate his feast day on Feb. 25.
Two years ago, on Feb. 24, 2022, Russia invaded Ukraine. The war drags on, and ordinary folks continue to suffer. But the prayers and financial support of Marian Helpers have given hope to those caught in the crossfire.
The Divine Mercy Image, revealed 93 years ago on Feb. 22, 1931, has become a source of amazing graces for souls who trust in Jesus by venerating or honoring it.
"The Catholic Church has a feast day to a chair?" you may ask. Yes, and we should remember to be grateful, particularly on the Feast of the Chair of St. Peter the Apostle on Feb. 22, for Christ's loving protection of His Church.
He was a monk, cardinal, and Doctor of the Church. He confronted kings and clergy, lived a life of heroic virtue, and was a prolific writer for the Church. He is St. Peter Damian (feast day: Feb. 21), known for his Church reforms, diplomatic ability, holiness, and great theological mind.
On Feb. 17 and 18, 1943, two Marian priests chose to die rather than abandon those in their care. They are Blessed Anthony Leszczewicz and Blessed George Kaszyra.
"Father Thad has been teaching our community about poverty in religious life," says Brother Josh, "and for me, poverty is tied to peace, freedom, and simplicity. My mind feels tranquil when I have very little."
All of the Fridays in Lent, as well as on Ash Wednesday and Good Friday, are days of abstinence for all in good health ages 14 and over, refraining from the consumption of meat.
This year, one of the most austere observances on the liturgical calendar coincides with a holiday synonymous with fancy dinners, fine wine, expensive jewelry, and rich chocolates. Ash Wednesday falls on Feb. 14 - Valentine's Day.
