RULE/MARTYROLOGY THREAD

[OmniaInstaurareInChristo]

The reading appointed from the Rule of St. Benedict for August 12:

CHAPTER LVIII
Of the Discipline of receiving Brethren into Religion (cont.)

Let him who is to be received make before all, in the Oratory, a promise of STABILITY, CONVERSION OF LIFE, and OBEDIENCE, in the presence of God and of His saints, so that, if he should ever act otherwise, he may know that he will be condemned by Him Whom he mocketh. Let him draw up this promise in writing, in the name of the saints whose relics are in the altar, and of the Abbot there present. And let him write it with his own hand; or at least, if he knoweth not how, let another write it at his request, and let the Novice put his mark to it, and place it with his own hand upon the altar. When he hath done this, let the Novice himself immediately begin this verse: "Uphold me, O Lord, according to Thy Word, and I shall live: and let me not be confounded in my expectation." And this verse let the whole community thrice repeat, adding thereto Gloria Patri. Then let the newly-received brother cast himself at the feet of all, that they may pray for him, and from that day let him be counted as one of the community. Whatever property he hath let him first bestow upon the poor, or by a solemn deed of gift make over to the Monastery, keeping nothing of it all for himself, as knowing that from that day forward he will have no power even over his own body. Forthwith, therefore, in the Oratory, let him be stripped of his own garments, wherewith he is clad, and be clothed in those of the Monastery. And let the garments that are taken from him be laid by and kept in the wardrobe; so that if ever, by the persuasion of the devil, he consent (which God forbid) to leave the Monastery, he may be stripped of the monastic habit and cast forth. But the form of his profession, which the Abbot took from the altar, shall not be given back to him, but be kept in the Monastery.


Martyrology-August 13th
Roman Martyrology-August 13th- on this date in various years-

At Rome, the blessed Hippolytus, martyr, who gloriously confessed the faith, under Emperor Valerian. After enduring other torments, he was tied by the feet to the necks of wild horses, and being cruelly dragged through briars and brambles, and having all his body lacerated, he yielded up his spirit. On the same day suffered also blessed Concordia, his nurse, who being scourged in his presence with leaded whips, went to our Lord, and nineteen others of his household, who were beheaded beyond the Tiburtine Gate, and buried with him in the Agro Verano.

At Imola, the birthday of St. Cassian, martyr. As he refused to worship idols, the persecutor called the boys whom the saint had taught and who hated him, giving them leave to kill him. The torment suffered by the martyr was the more grievous, as the hands which inflicted it, by reason of weakness, rendered death long drawn-out.

At Todi in Umbria, St. Cassian, bishop and martyr, under Emperor Diocletian.

At Burgos in Spain, Saints Centolla and Helena, martyrs.

At Constantinople, St. Maximus, a monk distinguished for learning and for zeal for Catholic truth. Valiantly disputing the Monothelites, he had his hands and tongue torn from him by the heretical emperor Constans, and was banished to Chersonesus, where he breathed his last. At this time, two of his disciples, both named Anastasius, and many others endured divers torments and the hardships of exile.

At Fritzlar in Germany, St. Wigbert, priest and confessor.

At Rome, the birthday of St. John Berchmans, a scholastic of the Society of Jesus, illustrious for his innocence and for his fidelity to the rules of the religious life. He was canonized by Pope Leo XIII.

At Poitiers in France, St. Radegund, queen, whose life was renowned for miracles and virtues.

And elsewhere in divers places, many other holy martyrs, confessors, and holy virgins.
R. Thanks be to God.

[OmniaInstaurareInChristo]

The reading appointed from the Rule of St. Benedict for August 13:

CHAPTER LIX
Of the Sons of Nobles or of Poor Men that are offered

If any nobleman shall perchance offer his son to God in the Monastery, let the parents, should the boy be still in infancy, make for him the written promise as aforesaid; and together with the oblation* let them wrap that promise and the hand of the child in the altar-cloth and so offer him up. With respect to his property, they must in the same document promise under oath that they will never either themselves, or through any one else, or in any way whatever, give him anything, or the means of having anything. Or else, if they are unwilling to do this, and desire to offer something as an alms to the Monastery, for their own advantage, let them make a donation of whatever they please to the Monastery, reserving to themselves, if they will, the income thereof during their life. Thus let all possibility of expectation be excluded whereby the child might be deceived and so perish (which God forbid), as we have learnt by experience may happen. Let those who are poorer do in like manner. But those who have nothing whatever may simply make the promise in writing, and, with the oblation, offer their son before witnesses.


Martyrology-August 14th
Roman Martyrology-August 14th- on this date in various years-

The Vigil of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary.

At Rome, the birthday of the blessed priest Eusebius, who for the defence of the Catholic faith was shut up in a room of his own house by the Arian emperor Constantius, where constantly persevering in prayer for seven months, he rested in peace. His body was removed by the priests Gregory and Orosius, and buried in the cemetery of Callistus, on the Appian Way.

At Apamea in Syria, St. Marcellus, bishop and martyr, who was killed by the enraged heathen for having pulled down a temple of Jupiter.

At Todi in Umbria, St. Callistus, bishop and martyr.

In Illyria, St. Ursicius, martyr, who was beheaded for Christ after suffering various torments under Emperor Maximian and the governor Aristides.

In Africa, St. Demetrius, martyr.

In the island of Aegina, St. Athanasia, widow, celebrated for monastical observance and the gift of miracles.

And elsewhere in divers places, many other holy martyrs, confessors, and holy virgins.
R. Thanks be to God.

[OmniaInstaurareInChristo]

The reading appointed from the Rule of St. Benedict for August 14:

CHAPTER LX
Of Priests who may wish to dwell in the Monastery

If any one in priestly orders ask to be received into the Monastery, let not consent be too quickly granted him; but if he persist in his request, let him know that he will have to observe all the discipline of the Rule, and that nothing will be relaxed in his favour, according as it is written "Friend, wherefore art thou come?" Let him, nevertheless, be allowed to stand next the Abbot, to give the blessing, and to say Mass, if the Abbot bid him do so. Otherwise, let him presume to do nothing, knowing that he is subject to the discipline of the Rule; but rather let him give an example of humility to all. And if there be a question of any appointment, or other business in the Monastery, let him expect the position due to him according to the time of his entrance, and not that which was yielded to him out of reverence for the priesthood. If any clerics should desire in the same way to be admitted into the Monastery, let them be placed in a middle rank: but in their case also, only on condition that they promise observance of the Rule, and stability therein.

Martyrology-August 15th
Roman Martyrology-August 15th- on this date in various years-

The Assumption of the most holy Virgin Mary, Mother of God.

At Cracow in Poland, St. Hyacinth, confessor of the Order of Preachers, whom Pope Clement VIII placed in the number of the saints. His feast is observed on the 17th of August.

At Alba Regalis in Hungary, St. Stephen, King of Hungary, who was graced with divine virtues, was the first to convert the Hungarians to the faith of Christ, and was received into heaven by the Virgin Mother of God on the very day of her Assumption. By decree of Pope Innocent XI, his feast is kept on the 2nd of September, on which day the strong city of Buda, by the aid of the holy king, was recovered by the Christian army.

At Rome, on the Appian Way, St. Tarsicius, acolyte. The pagans accosted him as he was carrying the Sacrament of Christ's Body, and began to inquire what it was. But he judged it an unworthy thing to cast pearls before swine. They therefore beat him with sticks and stones until he expired. The sacrilegious searchers examined his body, but found no vestige of the Sacrament of Christ, either in his hands or in his clothes. The Christians took up the body of the martyr, and buried it reverently in the cemetery of Callistus.

At Tagaste in Africa, St. Alipius, bishop, who was the disciple of blessed Augustine, and the companion of his conversion, his colleague in the pastoral charge, his valiant fellow-soldier in disputing heretics, and finally his partner in the glory of heaven.

At Soissons in France, St. Arnulf, bishop and confessor.

At Rome, St. Stanislas Kostka, a native of Poland, confessor of the Society of Jesus, who being made perfect in a short time, fulfilled a long time by the angelic innocence of his life. He was inscribed on the list of the saints by the Sovereign Pontiff, Benedict XIII.

And elsewhere in divers places, many other holy martyrs, confessors, and holy virgins.
R. Thanks be to God.

[OmniaInstaurareInChristo]

The reading appointed from the Rule of St. Benedict for August 15:

CHAPTER LXI
Of Stranger Monks, how they are to be received

If any monk who is a stranger come from distant parts, and desire to dwell in the Monastery as a guest, and if he be content with the customs which he there findeth, and do not trouble the Monastery by any superfluous wants, but be satisfied with what he findeth, let him be received for as long a time as he will. And if reasonably and with humility he reprove and point out what is amiss, let the Abbot prudently mark his words, in case God perchance hath sent him for this very end. If afterwards he desire to bind himself to remain there, let not his wish be denied him, especially since during the time he was a guest his manner of life could well be ascertained.

Martyrology-August 16th
Roman Martyrology-August 16th- on this date in various years-

St. Joachim, father of the most Blessed Virgin Mary, Mother of God, Confessor. His birthday is noted on the 20th of March.

At Rome, St. Titus, deacon, who, when the city was taken by the Goths, was put to death by a barbarous tribune while distributing money to the poor.

At Nicaea in Bithynia, St. Diomede, a physician who underwent martyrdom by being beheaded during the persecution of Diocletian.

In Palestine thirty-three holy martyrs.

At Ferentino in Campania, St. Ambrose, centurion. In the persecution of Diocletian he was subjected to different kinds of tortures, and finally passing through fire without injury, was cast into the waters, and thus reached the place of eternal rest.

At Milan, the death of St. Simplician, bishop, renowned by the testimony of given of him by St. Ambrose and St. Augustine.

At Auxerre, St. Eleutherius, bishop.

At Nicomedia, St. Arsacius, confessor. Under the persecution of Licinius he left the military service, and leading a solitary life, became so famous for working miracles that we read of his expelling the demons and killing a huge dragon by his prayers. Finally he foretold the destruction of the city, and gave up his soul to God in prayer.

In France, near Montpellier, in the province of Narbonne, the death of blessed Roch, confessor, who by the sing of the cross, delivered many cities of Italy from an epidemic. His body was afterwards transferred to Venice, and deposited with the greatest honours in the church dedicated under his invocation.

At Rome, St. Serena, who had been the wife of Emperor Diocletian.

And elsewhere in divers places, many other holy martyrs, confessors, and holy virgins.
R. Thanks be to God.

[OmniaInstaurareInChristo]

The reading appointed from the Rule of St. Benedict for August 16:

CHAPTER LXI
Of Stranger Monks, how they are to be received (cont.)

But if during that time he was found burdensome or prone to vice, not only must he not be admitted among the brethren, but he must even be courteously bidden to depart, lest others should be corrupted by his evil living. If, however, he is not such as to deserve to be sent away, let him not merely on his own asking be received and admitted into the community, but even be persuaded to remain, that the others may be taught by his example: because in every place we serve one God, and fight under one King. And if the Abbot perceive him to be a man of this kind, he may put him in a somewhat higher place. It shall be in the Abbot's power to assign not only to a simple monk, but also to any of the aforesaid priests or clerics, a higher place than that due to them by their entrance into the Monastery, if he see that their lives are such as to deserve it. But let the Abbot take care never to receive a monk from any known monastery, without his own Abbot's consent, and letters of recommendation; as it is written: "What thou wilt not have done to thyself, do not thou to another."

Martyrology-August 17th
Roman Martyrology-August 17th- on this date in various years-

The Octave of St. Lawrence, martyr.

St. Hyacinth, confessor of the Order of Preachers, who fell asleep in the Lord on the 15th of August.

At Carthage in Africa, the holy martyrs Liberatus, abbot, Boniface, a deacon, Servus and Rusticus, subdeacons, Rogatus and Septimus, monks, and Maximus, a young child. In the persecution of the Vandals, under King Hunneric, they were subjected to various and unheard-of torments for the confession of the Catholic faith and the defence of one baptism. Finally, being nailed to the wood with which they were to be burned, as the fire was always miraculously extinguished whenever kindled, they were struck with iron bars by order of the tyrant until their brains were dashed out. Thus they ended the glorious series of their combats, and were crowned by our Lord.

In Achaia, St. Myron, priest and martyr, who was beheaded at Cyzicum after undergoing many torments, in the time of Emperor Decius and the governor Antipater.

At Caesarea in Cappadocia, the birthday of St. Mamas, martyr, the son of Saints Theodotus and Rufina, martyrs, who, from childhood to old age, endured a long martyrdom, and at length ended it happily in the reign of Aurelian, under the governor Alexander. He has been highly praised by the holy Fathers Basil and Gregory Nazianzen.

At Nicomedia, the holy martyrs Straton, Philip, and Eutychian, who were condemned to the beasts, but being uninjured by them, ended their martyrdom by fire.

At Ptolemais in Palestine, the holy martyrs Paul and his sister Juliana, virgin, who suffered under Aurelian. They were both punished with various cruel torments and were finally beheaded for their constancy in confessing the name of Christ.

At Rome, Pope St. Eusebius.

At Teramo, St. Anastasius, bishop and confessor.

At Montefalco in Umbria, St. Clare, a nun of the Order of Hermits of St. Augustine, virgin. In her flesh were renewed the mysteries of the Lord's passion, which the faithful honour with great devotion. Pope Leo XIII solemnly inscribed her in the list of the holy virgins.

And elsewhere in divers places, many other holy martyrs, confessors, and holy virgins.
R. Thanks be to God.

[OmniaInstaurareInChristo]

The reading appointed from the Rule of St. Benedict for August 17:

CHAPTER LXII
Of the Priests of the Monastery

If any Abbot desire to have a priest or deacon ordained for his Monastery, let him choose from among his monks one who is worthy to fulfil the priestly office. And let him that is ordained beware of arrogance and pride, and presume to do nothing that is not commanded him by the Abbot, knowing that he is now all the more subject to regular discipline. Let him not, by reason of his priesthood, become forgetful of the obedience and discipline of the Rule, but advance ever more and more in godliness. Let him always keep the place due to him according to his entrance into the Monastery, except with regard to his office at the altar, or unless the choice of the community and the will of the Abbot should raise him to a higher place for the merit of his life. Nevertheless, let him know that he must observe the rules prescribed by the deans or Prior. Should he presume to do otherwise, he shall be judged, not as a priest, but as a rebel; and if after frequent warning he do not correct himself, let recourse be had to the intervention of the Bishop.* If even then he will not amend, and his guilt is clearly shewn, let him be cast forth from the Monastery, provided his contumacy be such that he will not submit nor obey the Rule.

Martyrology-August 18th
Roman Martyrology-August 18th- on this date in various years-

At Palestrina, the birthday of the holy martyr Agapitus. Although only fifteen years of age, because he was fervent in the love of Christ, he was arrested by order of Emperor Aurelian, and scourged for a long time. Afterwards, under the prefect Antiochus, he endured more severe torments, and being delivered to the lions by the emperor's order without receiving any injury, he was finally struck with the sword, and thus merited his crown.

At Rome, during the persecution of Diocletian, the blessed John and Crispus, priests, who charitably buried the bodies of many saints; afterwards becoming partakers of their merits, they deserved the joys of eternal life.

In the same city, the holy martyrs Hermas, Serapion, and Polyaenus. Being dragged through narrow, stony, and rough places, they yielded up their souls to God.

In Illyria, the holy martyrs Florus and Laurus, stonecutters, who, after the martyrdom of Proculus and Maximus, their employers, were subjected to many torments under the governor Licion, and plunged into a deep well.

At Myra in Lycia, the holy martyrs Leo and Juliana.

At Metz in France, St. Firmin, bishop and confessor.

At Rome, on the Via Lavicana, St. Helena, mother of the religious emperor Constantine the Great, who was the first to set the example to other princes of protecting and extending the Church.

And elsewhere in divers places, many other holy martyrs, confessors, and holy virgins.
R. Thanks be to God.

[OmniaInstaurareInChristo]

The reading appointed from the Rule of St. Benedict for August 18:

CHAPTER LXIII
Of the Order of the Community

Let everyone keep that place in the Monastery, which the time of his entering religion, the merit of his life, or the appointment of the Abbot shall determine. And let not the Abbot disquiet the flock committed to him, nor by an undue use of his authority ordain anything unjustly; but let him ever bear in mind that he will have to give an account to God of all his judgments and all his deeds. Therefore in that order which they hold, or which he shall have appointed, let the brethren receive the kiss of peace, approach to Communion, intone the Psalms, and stand in choir. And in no place whatsoever let age decide the order, or be prejudicial to it; for Samuel and Daniel, when but children, judged the elders. Excepting, therefore, those whom (as we have said) the Abbot hath promoted with some special object, or for distinct reasons hath degraded, let all the rest stand in the order of their coming to religion; so that, for example, he who entered the Monastery at the second hour of the day must know that he is lower than he who came at the first hour, whatever may be his age or dignity. The children are to be kept under discipline at all times and by every one.

Martyrology-August 19th
Roman Martyrology-August 19th- on this date in various years-

At Caen in France, St. John Eudes, apostolic missionary, founder of the Congregation of Priests of Jesus and Mary and of the Order of Nuns of our Lady of Charity, and the promoter of the liturgical cult towards the most sacred Hearts of Christ and his Mother. He was canonized by Pope Pius XI.

At Rome, St. Julius, senator and martyr, who was delivered up to the judge Vitellius, and thrown into prison by him. By order of Emperor Commodus, he was beaten with rods until he expired. His body was buried in the cemetery of Caleposius on the Aurelian Way.

At Anagni, St. Magnus, bishop and martyr, who was put to death in the persecution of Decius.

In Cilicia, the birthday of St. Andrew, tribune, and his military companions, who were converted to Christianity through a miraculous victory they had gained over the Persians. Being accused on this account, they were massacred in the Mount Taurus pass, by the army of the governor Seleucus, under Emperor Maximian.

In Palestine, St. Timothy, a martyr in the persecution of Diocletian, under the governor Urbanus. After overcoming many torments, he was consumed with a slow fire. In the same country there suffered also Thecla and Agapius. The former, being exposed to the beasts, was torn to pieces by their teeth, and went to her Spouse; but Agapius, after enduring many torments, was reserved for greater trials.

At Rome, St. Sixtus III, pope and confessor.

In Provence, at the village of Brignoles, the death of St. Louis, bishop of Toulouse, of the Order of Friars Minor, renowned for holiness of life and miracles. His body was taken to Marseilles, and buried with due honours in the Church of the Friars Minor, but afterwards it was taken to Valencia in Spain, and enshrined in the cathedral.

In the neighbourhood of Sisteron in France, blessed Donatus, priest and confessor. Being from his very infancy endowed with the grace of God in an extraordinary manner, he lived the life of an anchoret for many years, and after having been renowned for glorious miracles, went to Christ.

In the territory of Bourges, St. Marianus, confessor, whose virtues and miracles were described with great praise by St. Gregory, bishop of Tours.

At Mantua, St. Rufina, confessor.

At Nuremburg, St. Sebald, hermit, noted for his virtues and miracles. Pope Martin V added his name to the list of the saints.

And elsewhere in divers places, many other holy martyrs, confessors, and holy virgins.
R. Thanks be to God

[OmniaInstaurareInChristo]

The reading appointed from the Rule of St. Benedict for August 19:

CHAPTER LXIII
Of the Order of the Community (cont.)

Let the younger brethren, then, reverence their elders, and the elder love the younger. In calling each other by name, let none address another by his simple name; but let the elders call the younger brethren Brothers, and the younger call their elders Fathers,* by which is implied the reverence due to a father. But let the Abbot, since he is considered to represent the person of Christ, be called Lord and Abbot, not that he hath taken it upon himself, but out of reverence and love for Christ. Let him be mindful of this, and shew himself to be worthy of such an honour. Wherever the brethren meet one another, let the younger ask a blessing from the elder. And when the elder passeth by, let the younger rise, and give place to him to sit down; nor let the younger presume to sit with him, unless the elder bid him, that it may come to pass as it is written: "In honour preferring one another." Let young children and boys take their places in the Oratory, or at table, with all due discipline. In other places also, wherever they may be, let them be under proper care and discipline, until they come to the age of understanding.

Martyrology-August 20th
Roman Martyrology-August 20th- on this date in various years-

In the territory of Langres, the death of St. Bernard, first abbot of Clairvaux, illustrious for virtues, learning, and miracles. He was declared and confirmed doctor of the Universal Church by the Sovereign Pontiff, Pius VIII.

At Rome, the death of St. Pius X, pope and confessor, who championed the integrity of the faith and the liberty of the Church, and was renowned for his religious zeal. His feastday is celebrated on the 3rd of September.

On Mount Senario in Tuscany, the birthday of St. Manetto, confessor, one of the seven founders of the Order of the Servites of the Blessed Virgin Mary, who died as he was repeating a hymn to her. His feast, with that of his companions, is kept on the 12th of February.

In Judea, the holy prophet Samuel, whose holy relics (as is related by St. Jerome) were taken to Constantinople by Emperor Arcadius, and deposited near Septimum.

In Cyprus, St. Lucius, senator, who was converted to the faith on seeing the constancy of Theodore, bishop of Cyrene, during his martyrdom. He also converted the governor Dignian, with whom he set out for Cyprus, where, seeing other Christians crowned for the confession of the Lord, he offered himself voluntarily, and merited the same crown of martyrdom by beheading.

In Thrace, in the time of the governor Apellian, thirty-seven holy martyrs, who had their hands and feet cut off for the faith of Christ, and were cast into a burning furnace.

Also, the holy martyrs Severus, and the centurion Memnon, who, suffering the same kind of death, went victoriously to heaven.

At Cordova, during the persecution of the Arabs, the holy martyrs Leovigild and Christopher, monks, who were thrust into prison for the defence of the Christian faith, and soon after, being beheaded and cast into the fire, thus obtained the palm of martyrdom.

In the island of Hermoutier, St. Philibert, abbot.

At Rome, blessed Porphyry, a man of God, who instructed the holy martyr Agapitus in the faith and doctrine of Christ.

At Chinon, St. Maximus, confessor, disciple of the blessed bishop Martin.

And elsewhere in divers places, many other holy martyrs, confessors, and holy virgins.
R. Thanks be to God.

[OmniaInstaurareInChristo]

The reading appointed from the Rule of St. Benedict for August 20:


CHAPTER LXIV
Of the Appointment of the Abbot


In the appointing of an Abbot, let this principle always be observed, that he be made Abbot whom all the brethren with one consent in the fear of God, or even a small part of the community with more wholesome counsel, shall elect. Let him who is to be appointed be chosen for the merit of his life and the wisdom of his doctrine, even though he should be the last in order in the community. But if all the brethren with one accord (which God forbid) should elect a man willing to acquiesce in their evil habits, and these in some way come to the knowledge of the Bishop to whose diocese that place belongs, or of the Abbots or neighbouring Christians, let them not suffer the consent of these wicked men to prevail, but appoint a worthy steward over the house of God, knowing that for this they shall receive a good reward, if they do it with a pure intention and for the love of God, as, on the other hand, they will sin if they neglect it.


Martyrology-August 21st
Roman Martyrology-August 21st- on this date in various years-


The festival of St. Jane Frances Fremiot de Chantal, foundress of the Order of Nuns of the Visitation of St. Mary, whose birthday is commemorated on the 13th of December.


At Rome, in the Agro Verano, St. Cyriaca, widow and martyr. In the persecution of Valerian, after devoting herself and all her goods in the service of the saints, she gave up her life by suffering martyrdom for Christ.


In Gevaudan, St. Privatus, bishop and martyr, who suffered in the persecution of Valerian and Gallienus.


At Salona in Dalmatia, St. Anastasius, a law officer, who was converted to the faith by seeing the fortitude with which blessed Agapitus bore his torments, and being put to death by order of Emperor Aurelian for confessing the name of Christ, went to our Lord, a martyr.


In Sardinia, the birthday of the holy martyrs Luxorius, Cisellus, and Camerinus, who were put to the sword in the persecution of Diocletian, under the governor Delphius.


On the same day, the holy martyrs Bononus and Maximian.


At Fundi in Campania, St. Paternus, a martyr, who came from Alexandria to Rome to visit the tomb of the apostles. Thence he retired to the neighbourhood of Fundi, where, being seized by the tribune while he was burying the bodies of the martyrs, he died in captivity.


At Edessa in Syria, during the persecution of Maximian, the holy martyrs Bassa, and her sons Theogonius, Agapius, and Fidelis, whom their pious mother exhorted to martyrdom and sent before her bearing their crowns. Being herself beheaded, she joyfully followed them and shared their victory.


At Verona, St. Euprepius, bishop and confessor.


Also, St. Quadratus, bishop.


In Auvergne in France, St. Sidonius, bishop, noted for learning and holiness.


At Siena in Tuscany, blessed Bernard Ptolemy, abbot and founder of the Congregation of Olivetans.


And elsewhere in divers places, many other holy martyrs, confessors, and holy virgins.
R. Thanks be to God.

[OmniaInstaurareInChristo]

The reading appointed from the Rule of St. Benedict for August 21:


CHAPTER LXIV
Of the Appointment of the Abbot (cont.)


Let him that hath been appointed Abbot always bear in mind what a burden he hath received, and to Whom he will have to give an account of his stewardship; and let him know that it beseemeth him more to profit his brethren than to preside over them. He must, therefore, be learned in the Law of God, that he may know whence to bring forth new things and old: he must be chaste, sober, merciful, ever preferring mercy to justice, that he himself may obtain mercy. Let him hate sin, and love the brethren. And even in his corrections, let him act with prudence, and not go too far, lest while he seeketh too eagerly to scrape off the rust, the vessel be broken. Let him keep his own frailty ever before his eyes, and remember that the bruised reed must not be broken. And by this we do not mean that he should suffer vices to grow up; but that prudently and with charity he should cut them off, in the way he shall see best for each, as we have already said; and let him study rather to be loved than feared. Let him not be violent nor over anxious, not exacting nor obstinate, not jealous nor prone to suspicion, or else he will never be at rest. In all his commands, whether concerning spiritual or temporal matters, let him be prudent and considerate. In the works which he imposeth, let him be discreet and moderate, bearing in mind the discretion of holy Jacob, when he said "If I cause my flocks to be overdriven, they will all perish in one day." Taking, then, the testimonies, borne by these and the like words, to discretion, the mother of virtues, let him so temper all things, that the strong may have something to strive after, and the weak nothing at which to take alarm. And, especially, let him observe this present Rule in all things; so that, having faithfully fulfilled his stewardship, he may hear from the Lord what that good servant heard, who gave wheat to his fellow-servants in due season: "Amen, I say unto you, over all his goods shall he place him."


Martyrology-August 22nd
Roman Martyrology-August 22nd- on this date in various years-


The Octave of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary.


Feast of the Immaculate Heart of the same Blessed Virgin Mary.


At Rome, on the Ostian Way, the birthday of the holy martyr Timothy. After he had been arrested by Tarquin, prefect of the city, and kept for a long time in prison, because he refused to sacrifice to idols, he was scourged three times, subjected to the most severe torments, and finally beheaded.


At Porto, St. Hippolytus, bishop, most renowned for learning. Having gloriously confessed the faith, in the time of Emperor Alexander, he was bound hand and foot, thrown into a deep ditch filled with water, and thus received the palm of martyrdom. His body was buried by the Christians at that place.


At Autun, St. Symphorian, a martyr, in the time of Emperor Aurelian. Refusing to offer sacrifice to the idols, he was first scourged, then confined to prison, and finally ended his martyrdom by being beheaded.


At Todi in Umbria, the birthday of St. Philip Beniti, confessor, of Florence. He was a zealous promoter of the Order of the Servants of the Blessed Virgin Mary, and was a man of great humility. He was canonized by Pope Clement X; his feast, however, is observed on the day following


At Rome, St. Antoninus, martyr, who, openly declaring himself a Christian, was condemned to capital punishment by the judge Vitellius, and buried on the Aurelian Way.


At Tarsus in Cilicia, the commemoration of Saints Athanasius, bishop and martyr, Anthusa, a noble woman he had baptized , and two of her servants, Charisius and Neophytus, martyrs who suffered under the Emperor Valerian.


At Porto, the holy martyrs Martial, Saturninus, Epictetus, Maprilis, and Felix, with their companions.


At Nicomedia, the passion of Saints Agathonicus, Zoticus, and their fellow-martyrs, under Emperor Maximian and the governor Eutholomius.


At Rheims in France, the holy martyrs Maur and his companions.


In Spain, the holy martyrs Fabrician and Philibert.


At Pavia, St. Gunifort, martyr.


And elsewhere in divers places, many other holy martyrs, confessors, and holy virgins.
R. Thanks be to God.

[OmniaInstaurareInChristo]

The reading appointed from the Rule of St. Benedict for August 22:


CHAPTER LXV
Of the Prior of the Monastery


It happeneth very often that by the appointment of the Prior grave scandals arise in Monasteries; since there are some who, puffed up by the evil spirit of pride, and deeming themselves to be second Abbots, take upon themselves to tyrannise over others, and so foster scandals and cause dissensions in the community: especially in those places where the Prior is appointed by the same priest, or the same Abbots as appoint the Abbot himself. How foolish this is may easily be seen; for from the moment of his appointment an incentive to pride is given to him, the thought suggesting itself that he is freed from the authority of his Abbot, since he hath been appointed by the very same persons. Hence are stirred up envy, quarrels, backbiting, dissensions, jealousy and disorders. And while the Abbot and Prior are at variance with one another, it must needs be that their own souls are endangered by reason of their disagreement; and those who are their subjects, while favouring one side or the other, run to destruction. The evil of this peril falleth on the heads of those who by their action have been the cause of such disorders.


Martyrology-August 23rd
Roman Martyrology-August 23rd- on this date in various years-


The Vigil of St. Bartholomew, Apostle.


St. Philip Beniti, confessor, promoter of the Order of the Servants of the Blessed Virgin Mary, who departed to the Lord on the previous day.


At Ostia, the holy martyrs Quiriacus, bishop, Maximus, priest, Archelaus, deacon, and their companions, who suffered under prefect Ulpian, in the time of Alexander.


At Antioch, the birthday of the holy martyrs Restitutus, Donatus, Valerian, and Fructuosa, with twelve others, who were crowned after having distinguished themselves by a glorious confession.


At Aegaea in Cilicia, the holy martyrs Claudius, Asterius, and Neon, brothers, who were accused of being Christians by their stepmother, under Emperor Diocletian and the governor Lysias. After enduring bitter torments, they were fastened to a cross, and thus conquered and triumphed with Christ. After them suffered Dovina and Theonilla.


At Rheims in France, the birthday of the Saints Timothy and Apollinaris, who merited to enter the heavenly kingdom by completing their martyrdom in that city.


At Lyons, the holy martyrs Minercus and Eleazar, with his eight sons.


Also St. Luppus, martyr, who, though a slave, enjoyed the liberty of Christ, and was likewise deemed worthy of the crown of martyrdom.


At Jerusalem, St. Zachaeus, bishop, who governed the Church in that city the fourth after the blessed apostle James.


At Alexandria, St. Theonas, bishop and confessor.


At Utica in Africa, blessed Victor, bishop.


At Autun, St. Flavian, bishop.


And elsewhere in divers places, many other holy martyrs, confessors, and holy virgins.
R. Thanks be to God.

[OmniaInstaurareInChristo]

The reading appointed from the Rule of St. Benedict for August 23:


CHAPTER LXV
Of the Prior of the Monastery (Cont.)


We foresee, therefore, that it is expedient for the preservation of peace and charity, that the ordering of the Monastery depend upon the will of the Abbot. If possible, let all the affairs of the Monastery be attended to (as we have already arranged) by Deans, as the Abbot shall appoint; so that, the same office being shared by many, no one may become proud. But if the needs of the place require it, and the community ask for it reasonably and with humility, and the Abbot judge it expedient, let him himself appoint a Prior, whomsoever he shall choose with the counsel of brethren who fear God. Let the Prior reverently do whatever is enjoined him by his Abbot, and nothing against his will or command; for the more he is raised above the rest, so much the more carefully ought he to observe the precepts of the Rule. And if the Prior be found culpable or deceived by the haughtiness of pride, or be proved a contemner of the holy Rule, let him be admonished by words until the fourth time, and then let the correction of regular discipline be applied to him. But if even then he do not amend, let him be deposed from the office of Prior, and another, who is worthier, be substituted in his place. If afterwards he be not quiet and obedient in the community, let him be expelled from the Monastery. Nevertheless, let the Abbot bear in mind that he must give an account to God of all his judgments, lest perchance the flame of envy or jealousy be kindled in his soul.


Martyrology-August 24th
Roman Martyrology-August 24th- on this date in various years-


The apostle St. Bartholomew, who preached the Gospel of Christ in India. Passing thence into the Greater Armenia where, after converting many to the faith, he was flayed alive by the barbarians, and having his head cut off by order of King Astyages, he fulfilled his martyrdom. His holy body was first carried to the island of Lipara, then to Benevento, and finally to Rome in the Island of the Tiber, where it is venerated by the pious faithful.


At Lima in Peru, the birthday of St. Rose of St. Mary, virgin of the Third Order of St. Dominic. Her feast is observed on the 30th of August.


At Nepi, St. Ptolemy, bishop, disciple of the blessed apostle Peter. Being sent by him to preach the Gospel in Tuscany, he died a glorious martyr of Christ in the city of Nepi.


Also, St. Eutychius, disciple of the blessed evangelist John. He preached the Gospel in many countries, and was subjected to imprisonment, to stripes and fire, but finally he rested in peace.


Also at Nepi, St. Romanus, bishop of that city, who was the disciple of St. Ptolemy, and his companion in martyrdom.


At Carthage, three hundred holy martyrs, in the time of Valerian and Gallienus . Among other torments inflicted on them, a pit filled with burning lime was prepared by order of the governor, who, live coals with incense being brought to him, said to the confessors: "Choose one of these two things: either offer incense to Jupiter upon these coals, or be thrown into the lime." Armed with faith, and confessing Christ to be the Son of God, they quickly threw themselves into the pit, and amid the vapours of the lime were reduced to dust. From this circumstance, this white-robed company of the blessed earned for itself the name of the White Mass.


In Isauria, St. Tation, martyr, who received the crown of martyrdom by being beheaded in the persecution of Diocletian, under the governor Urbanus.


Also, St. George Limniota, monk. Because he reprehended the wicked emperor Leo for breaking holy images, and burning the relics of the saints, he had his hands cut off and his head burned by order of the tyrant, and went to our Lord to receive the recompence of a martyr.


At Ostia, on the Tiber, St. Aurea, virgin and martyr, who was plunged into the sea with a stone tied to her neck. Her body being driven to the shore was buried by blessed Nonnus.


At Rouen, St. Owen, bishop and confessor.


At Nevers in France, St. Patrick, abbot.


At Naples in Campania, St. Joan Antide Thouret, virgin, who founded the Daughters of Saint Vincent de Paul, and whom Pope Pius XI added to the catalogue of holy virgins.


At Marseilles in France, St. Emily de Vialar, virgin, foundress of the Congregation of the Sisters of Saint Joseph of the Apparition. A shining example of fortitude, patience and charity, the Sovereign Pontiff Pius XII added her to the number of the saints.


At Valencia in Spain, the birthday of St. Mary Micaela virgin, who founded the Institute of Religious Adorer-Slaves of the Blessed Sacrament and of Charity. Burning with the desire to suffer and draw souls to God, she was numbered among the holy virgins by Pope Pius XI.


And elsewhere in divers places, many other holy martyrs, confessors, and holy virgins.
R. Thanks be to God.

[OmniaInstaurareInChristo]

The reading appointed from the Rule of St. Benedict for August 24:


CHAPTER LXVI
Of the Porter of the Monastery


Let a wise old man be placed at the door of the monastery, one who knoweth how to take and give an answer, and whose mature age doth not permit him to stray about.
He ought to have his cell near the gate, so that they who come may always find some one at hand to give them an answer. As soon as any one shall knock, or a poor man call to him, let him answer, "Thanks be to God," or bid God bless him, and then with all mildness and the fear of God let him give reply without delay, in the fervour of charity. If the porter need help, let him have with him one of the younger brethren.

The Monastery, however, ought if possible to be so constituted that all things necessary, such as water, a mill, and a garden, and the various crafts may be contained within it; so that there may be no need for the monks to wander abroad, for this is by no means expedient for their souls. And we wish this rule to be frequently read in the community, that none of the brethren may excuse himself on the plea of ignorance.


Martyrology-August 25th
Roman Martyrology-August 25th- on this date in various years-


At Carthage, St. Louis IX, king of France and confessor, illustrious for holiness of life and glorious miracles. His bones were later translated to Paris.


At Rome, the birthday of St. Joseph Calasanctius, priest and confessor, noteworthy for his holy life and miracles. He founded the Order of Poor Clerics Regular of the Mother of God of the Christian Schools. The Sovereign Pontiff, Pius XII, named him as heavenly patron of all Christian schoolchildren. His feast is on the 27th of August.


Also at Rome, in the time of Emperor Commodus, the holy martyrs Eusebius, Pontian, Vincent, and Peregrinus, who were first racked, distended by ropes, then beaten with rods and burned about their sides. As they continued faithfully to praise Christ, they were scourged with leaded whips until they expired.


In the same city of Rome, the birthday of blessed Nemesius, deacon, and his daughter, the virgin Lucilla. As they could not be prevailed upon to abandon the faith of Christ, they were beheaded by order of Ermperor Valerian. Their bodies were buried by blessed Pope Stephen, and afterwards more decently entombed on the 31st of October, by blessed Sixtus on the Appian Way. Gregory V translated them into the sacristy of Santa Maria Nova, together with the Saints Symphronius, Olympius, a tribune, Exuperia, his wife, and Theodulus, his son, who, being all converted by the exertions of Symphonius, and baptized by the same St. Stephen, had been crowned with martyrdom. These holy bodies were found there during the pontificate of Gregory XIII, and placed more honourably beneath the altar of the same church, on the 8th of December.


Also at Rome, St. Genesius, martyr, who had embraced the profession of actor while he was a pagan. One day he was deriding the Christian mysteries in the theatre in the presence of Emperor Diocletian; but by the inspiration of God he was suddenly converted to the faith and baptized. By command of the emperor he was forthwith most cruelly beaten with rods, then racked, and a long time lacerated with iron hooks, and burned with torches. As he remained firm in the faith of Christ, even saying: "There is no king besides Christ. Should you kill me a thousand times, you shall not be able to take him from my lips or my heart." He was then beheaded, and thus merited the palm of martyrdom.


At Arles in France, another blessed Genesius, who, filling the office of notary, and refusing to record the impious edicts by which Christians were commanded to be punished, threw away his books publicly, and declared himself a Christian. He was seized and beheaded, and thus attained the glory of martyrdom through baptism in his own blood.


In Syria, St. Julian, martyr.


At Tarragona in Spain, St. Maginus, martyr.


At Italica in Spain, St. Gerontius, bishop, who preached the Gospel in that country in apostolic times, and after many labours died in prison.


At Constantinople, St. Mennas, bishop.


At Utrecht, St. Gregory, bishop.


At Monte Falisco in Etruria, St. Thomas, bishop of the church of Hereford in England, and confessor.


At Naples in Campania, St. Patricia, virgin.


And elsewhere in divers places, many other holy martyrs, confessors, and holy virgins.
R. Thanks be to God.

[OmniaInstaurareInChristo]

The reading appointed from the Rule of St. Benedict for August 25:


CHAPTER LXVII
Of the Brethren Who Are Sent on a Journey


Let the brethren who are about to be sent on a journey commend themselves to the prayers of all the brethren and of the Abbot, and at the last prayer of the Work of God let a commemoration be always made of the absent. Let the brethren that return from a journey, on the very day that they come back, lie prostrate on the floor of the Oratory at all the Canonical Hours, while the Work of God is being performed, and beg the prayers of all on account of their transgressions, in case they should perchance upon the way have seen or heard anything harmful, or fallen into idle talk. And let no one presume to relate to another what he may have seen or heard outside the Monastery; for thence arise manifold evils. If any one shall so presume, let him be subjected to the punishment prescribed by the Rule. And he shall undergo a like penalty, who dareth to leave the enclosure of the Monastery, or to go anywhere, or do anything, however trifling, without permission of the Abbot.


Martyrology-August 26th
Roman Martyrology-August 26th- on this date in various years-


At Rome, St. Zephyrinus, pope and martyr, whose birthday falls on the 20th of December.


At Cardona in Spain, the birthday of St. Raymund Nonnatus, cardinal and confessor, of the Order of our Lady of Ransom for the Redemption of Captives, renowned for holiness of life and for miracles, whose feast is observed on the 31st of August.


At Rome, during the persecution of Valerian, the holy martyrs Irenæus and Abundius, who were thrown into a sewer from which they had taken the body of blessed of Concordia. Their bodies were drawn out by the priest Justin, and buried in a crypt near St. Lawrence.


At Ventimiglia, a city of Liguria, St. Secundus, martyr, a distinguished man and officer in the Theban Legion.


At Bergamo in Lombardy, St. Alexander, martyr, who was one of the same legion, and endured martyrdom, being beheaded for the constant confession of the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.


Among the Marcians, the saints Simplicius, and his sons Constantius and Victorian, who were first tortured in different manners, and lastly, struck with the axe, obtained the crown of martyrdom, in the time of Emperor Antoninus.


At Nicomedia, the martyrdom of St. Adrian, son of Emperor Probus. For reproaching Licinius because of the persecution of Christians, he was put to death by his order. His body was buried at Argyropolis by his uncle Domitius, bishop of Byzantium.


In Spain, St. Victor, martyr, who merited the crown of martyrs by being slain by the Moors for the faith of Christ.


At Capua, St. Rufinus, bishop and confessor.


At Pistoia, St. Felix, priest and confessor.


In the diocese of Poitiers, St. Joan-Elizabeth Bichier des Ages, virgin, who with St. André Hubert Fournet co-founded the Congregation of the Daughters of the Cross, and who was renowned for her spirit of mortification and life of innocence. Pope Pius XII added her name to the list of holy virgins.


And elsewhere in divers places, many other holy martyrs, confessors, and holy virgins.
R. Thanks be to God.

[OmniaInstaurareInChristo]

The reading appointed from the Rule of St. Benedict for August 26:


CHAPTER LXVIII
If a Brother be commanded to do Impossibilities


If on any brother there be laid commands that are hard and impossible, let him receive the orders of him who biddeth him with all mildness and obedience. But if he seeth the weight of the burden altogether to exceed his strength, let him seasonably and with patience lay before his Superior the reasons of his incapacity to obey, with out shewing pride, resistance, or contradiction. If, however, after this the Superior still persist in his command, let the younger know that it is expedient for him; and let him obey for the love of God, trusting in His assistance.


Martyrology-August 27th
Roman Martyrology-August 27th- on this date in various years-


St. Joseph Calasanctius, priest and confessor, who founded the Order of Poor Clerics Regular of the Mother of God of the Christian Schools. He fell asleep in the Lord on the 25th of August.


At Potenza in Lucania, the passion of Saints Arontius, Honoratus, Fortunatus, and Sabinian. They were the sons of Saints Boniface and Thecla, and were condemned to death by the judge Valerian in the reign of Emperor Maximian. Their feast, together with that of the other twelve holy brethren, is celebrated on the first of September.


At Bergamo, St. Narnus, who was baptized by blessed Barnabas and consecrated by him first bishop of that city.


At Capua, the birthday of St. Rufus, bishop and martyr, a patrician, who was baptized with all his family by blessed Apollinaris, disciple of St. Peter.


In the same place, the holy martyrs Rufus and Carpophorus, who suffered under Diocletian and Maximian.


At Tomis in Pontus, the holy martyrs Marcellinus, a tribune, and Mannea, his wife, and his sons John, Serapion, and Peter.


At Lentini in Sicily, St. Euthalia, virgin. Because she was a Christian she was put to the sword by her brother Sermilian, and went to her Spouse.


The same day, the martyrdom of St. Anthusa the Younger, who was made a martyr by being cast into a well for the faith of Christ.


At Arles in France, the holy bishop Caesarius, a man of great sanctity and piety.


At Autun, St. Syagrius, bishop and confessor.


At Pavia, St. John, bishop.


At Lerida in Spain, St. Licerius, bishop.


In Thebais, St. Poemen, abbot.


At San Severino, in Piceno, St. Margaret, widow.


And elsewhere in divers places, many other holy martyrs, confessors, and holy virgins.
R. Thanks be to God.