Liturgical Living
Win With a Smile :)
On January 24th, we honor St. Francis deSales, who was Bishop during a time of great division in his country. Everyone was fighting because of the Reformation, but Francis did not give in to all the arguing. Instead, he said: "You can catch more flies with a little honey than with a hundred barrels of vinegar." He used kindness and respect to win over and unite people in his area. Today, be an ambassador of unity by keeping a smile on your face and using kind words just like St. Francis deSales. Keep a journal of the reactions you get from your actions. Ask St. Francis to help you continue to be gentle and kind every day!
Patron Saint of Students
St. Thomas Aquinas, who we honor on January 28, had six older brothers who were tall, athletic, and all became soldiers. Thomas didn't have very many athletic gifts - he had something different. He had a brain that could think so wisely and so clearly that he surpassed all other students at his school! But he didn't just use this gift for himself, he used his incredible brain to learn everything he could about God and teach others about Him. In fact, next time you're at Benediction with Father Padraic or Father Dave and they start singing a song called "Tantum Ergo" (In English, "Down in Adoration Falling"), you can thank St. Thomas. He wrote that song that we still use to worship God today! Next time you don't want to study or you have a big test, ask St. Thomas Aquinas to help you to use your brain for the greater glory of God!
Patron Saint of Athletes
St. Sebastian, who we honored yesterday on January 20, is the patron saint of athletes because he was known for his incredible physical stamina. He was a strong soldier who stood up for his faith, even when they threatened to kill him. He was martyred, but legends of his physical abilities live on. In fact, the NFL Quarterback Philip Rivers announced that he will retire from the NFL on the Feast of St. Sebastian. He told ESPN: "Every year, January 20th is a special and emotional day. It is St. Sebastian's Feast day, the day I played in the AFC championship without an ACL, and now the day that after 17 seasons, I'm announcing my retirement from the National Football League." So before a big game, ask St. Sebastian to help you perform your best!