RULE/MARTYROLOGY THREAD

Started by OmniaInstaurareInChristo, May 01, 2013, 08:27:53 PM

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OmniaInstaurareInChristo

The reading appointed from the Rule of St. Benedict for May 1:

CHAPTER LXXIII
Of This, that Not the Whole Observance of Righteousness Is Laid Down in this Rule

Now, we have written this Rule that, observing it in monasteries, we may show that we have acquired at least some moral righteousness, or a beginning of the monastic life.

On the other hand, he that hasteneth on to the perfection of the religious life, hath at hand the teachings of the holy Fathers, the observance of which leadeth a man to the height of perfection. For what page or what utterance of the divinely inspired books of the Old and the New Testament is not a most exact rule of human life? Or, what book of the holy Catholic Fathers doth not loudly proclaim how we may go straight to our Creator? So, too, the collations of the Fathers, and their institutes and lives, and the rule of our holy Father, Basil -- what are they but the monuments of the virtues of exemplary and obedient monks? But for us slothful, disedifying, and negligent monks they are a source for shame and confusion.

Thou, therefore, who hastenest to the heavenly home, with the help of Christ fulfil this least rule written for a beginning; and then thou shalt with God's help attain at last to the greater heights of knowledge and virtue which we have mentioned above.

Martyrology-May 2nd
Roman Martyrology-May 2nd- on this date in various years-

At Alexandria, the birthday of St. Athanasius, bishop of that city, confessor and doctor of the Church, most celebrated for sanctity and learning. Although almost all of the world had formed a conspiracy to persecute him, he courageously defended the Catholic faith, from the reign of Constantine to that of Valens, against emperors, governors, and a multitude of Arian bishops, whose underhanded attacks forced him to wander as an exile over the whole earth without finding a place of security. At length, however, he was restored to his church, and after overcoming many trials, and winning many crowns by his patience, he departed for heaven in the forty-sixth year of his priesthood, in the time of the emperors Valentinian and Valens.

At Florence, Bishop St. Antoninus of the Order of Preachers, renowned for sanctity and learning. His feast is kept on the 10th of this month.

At Rome, the holy marytrs Saturninus, Neopolus, Germanus, and Celestine, who after much suffering were thrown into prison, where they found rest in the Lord.

The same day, St. Vindemial, bishop and martyr, who with the holy bishops Eugene and Longinus, combated the Arians by his teaching and miracles, and was beheaded by order of Hunneric, king of the Vandals.

At Seville in Spain, St. Felix, deacon and martyr.

At Attalia in Pamphylia, the holy martyrs Exuperius and Zoe, his wife, with their sons, Cyriacus and Theodulus. They were the slaves of a man named Paganus. During the reign of Emperor Hadrian, because of their outspoken profession of the Christian faith, their master ordered them to be scourged and severely tortured. They were finally cast into an oven, and in this way gave up their souls to God.

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 May 2:

PROLOGUE

Listen, O my son, to the precepts of thy master, and incline the ear of thy heart, and cheerfully receive and faithfully execute the admonitions of thy loving Father, that by the toil of obedience thou mayest return to Him from whom by the sloth of disobedience thou hast gone away.

To thee, therefore, my speech is now directed, who, giving up thine own will, takest up the strong and most excellent arms of obedience, to do battle for Christ the Lord, the true King.

In the first place, beg of Him by most earnest prayer, that He perfect whatever good thou dost begin, in order that He who hath been pleased to count us in the number of His children, need never be grieved at our evil deeds. For we ought at all times so to serve Him with the good things which He hath given us, that He may not, like an angry father, disinherit his children, nor, like a dread lord, enraged at our evil deeds, hand us over to everlasting punishment as most wicked servants, who would not follow Him to glory.

Martyrology-May 3rd
Roman Martyrology-May 3rd- on this date in various years-

At Jerusalem, in the time of Emperor Constantine, the finding of the holy Cross of our Lord.

At Rome, on the Via Nomentana, the holy martyrs Pope Alexander and the priests Eventius and Theodulus. Alexander was bound, imprisoned, racked, lacerated with hooks, burned, and had all his limbs pierced with pointed instruments, and finally met death, under Emperor Hadrian and the judge Aurelian. Eventius and Theodulus after a long imprisonment were exposed to flames and then beheaded.

At Narni, St. Juvenal, bishop and confessor.

On Mount Senario in Etruria, Saints Sosteneo and Ugoccio, confessors, of the seven founders of the Order of Servites of the Blessed Virgin Mary. Responding to a voice from heaven, they departed this life on the same day and at the same hour, while reciting the angelical salutation. Their feast is observed with the rest of their companions on the 12th day of February.

At Constantinople, the holy martyrs Alexander, soldier, and Antonina, virgin. In the persecution of Maximian, under the governor Festus, Antonina, having been condemned to remain in a place of debauchery, was delivered by Alexander, who secretly exchanged garments with her, and took her place. They were tortured together, both had their hands cut off, were cast into the fire, and received their crowns at the end of their heroic combat for the faith.

In Thebais, the holy martyrs Timothy and his wife Maura. The Arian prefect caused them to be tortured, and then fastened to a cross, on which they remained alive for nine days, encouraging each other to persevere in the faith, until they completed their martyrdom.

At Aphrodisia in Caria, the holy martyrs Diodorus and Rodopian, who were stoned to death by their fellow citizens, in the persecution of 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 May 3:

PROLOGUE (cont.)

Let us then rise at length, since the Scripture arouseth us, saying: "It is now the hour for us to rise from sleep" (Rom 13:11); and having opened our eyes to the deifying light, let us hear with awestruck ears what the divine voice, crying out daily, doth admonish us, saying: "Today, if you shall hear his voice, harden not your hearts" (Ps 94[95]:8 . And again: "He that hath ears to hear let him hear what the Spirit saith to the churches" (Rev 2:7). And what doth He say? -- "Come, children, hearken unto me, I will teach you the fear of the Lord" (Ps 33[34]:12). "Run whilst you have the light of life, that the darkness of death overtake you not" (Jn 12:35).

Martyrology-May 4th
Roman Martyrology-May 4th- on this date in various years-

At Ostia, the birthday of St. Monica, mother of blessed Augustine. He has left us in the ninth book of his Confessions a beautiful sketch of her life.

At the metal mines of Phennes in Palestine, the birthday of blessed Silvanus, bishop of Gaza, who was crowned with martyrdom with many of his clerics by the command of Caesar Galerius Maximian, in the persecution of Diocletian.

At Jerusalem, in the reign of Julian the Apostate, St. Cyriacus, bishop, who was murdered while visiting the holy places.

At Camerinum, St. Porphyry, priest and martyr. Because he converted many to the faith (among them Venantius), he was beheaded during the reign of Emperor Decius and the governor Antiochus.

Also in the mines of Phennes, thirty-nine holy martyrs, who were condemned to work there, to be branded with hot irons, to undergo other torments, and finally all to be beheaded at the same time.

At Lorch in Austria, under Emperor Diocletian and the governor Aquilinus, the martyr St. Florian, who was thrown into the River Enns, with a stone tied about his neck.

At Cologne, the martyr St. Paulinus.

At Tarsus, St. Pelagia, virgin, who endured martyrdom under Diocletian by being shut up inside an ox made of brass that had been heated to redness.

At Nicomedia, the birthday of St. Antonia, martyr, who was cruelly tortured, subjected to various torments, suspended by one arm for three days, kept two years in prison, and finally delivered to the flames for the confession of Christ by the governor Priscillian.

At Milan, St. Venerius, a bishop whose virtues are attested to by St. John Chrysostom in the epistle which he had written to him.

In the province of Perigord, St. Sacerdos, bishop of Limoges.

At Hildesheim in Saxony, St. Gothard, bishop and confessor, who was ranked among the saints by Innocent II.

At Auxerre, St. Curcodomus, deacon.

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

OmniaInstaurareInChristo

#3
The reading appointed from the Rule of St. Benedict for May 4:

PROLOGUE (cont.)
And the Lord seeking His workman in the multitude of the people, to whom He proclaimeth these words, saith again: "Who is the man that desireth life and loveth to see good days" (Ps 33[34]:13)? If hearing this thou answerest, "I am he," God saith to thee: "If thou wilt have true and everlasting life, keep thy tongue from evil, and thy lips from speaking guile; turn away from evil and do good; seek after peace and pursue it" (Ps 33[34]:14-15). And when you shall have done these things, my eyes shall be upon you, and my ears unto your prayers. And before you shall call upon me I will say: "Behold, I am here" (Is 58:9).

What, dearest brethren, can be sweeter to us than this voice of the Lord inviting us? See, in His loving kindness, the Lord showeth us the way of life.

Martyrology-May 5th
Roman Martyrology-May 5th- on this date in various years-

Pope St. Pius V, confessor of the Order of Preachers, who went to sleep in the Lord on the 1st of May.

At Rome, the martyr St. Silvanus.

Also at Rome, St. Crescentia, martyr.

At Leocata in Sicily, St. Angelus, priest of the Order of Carmelites, who was murdered by the heretics because of his defence of the Catholic faith.

At Alexandria, St. Euthymius, deacon, who died in prison for the sake of Christ.

At Auxerre, the martyrdom of St. Jovinian, lector.

At Thessalonica, the birthday of the holy martyrs Irenæus, Peregrinus, and Irene, who were burned alive.

At Jerusalem, St. Maximus, bishop, whom Maximian Galerius Caesar condemned to the mines, after having plucked out one of his eyes and branded him on the foot with a hot iron. He was afterwards freed, and allowed to rule the church at Jerusalem, where he died in peace, renowned for the glory of his confession.

At Edessa in Syria, St. Eulogius, bishop and confessor.

At Arles in France, the bishop St. Hilary, noted for his learning and sanctity.

At Vienne in France, the bishop St. Nicetus, a man venerable for his piety.

At Bologna, St. Theodore, a bishop who was eminent for merits.

At Milan, the bishop St. Geruntius.

On the same day, St. Sacerdos, bishop of Saguntum.

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

OmniaInstaurareInChristo

#4
The reading appointed from the Rule of St. Benedict for May 5:

PROLOGUE (cont.)

Therefore, having our loins girt with faith and the performance of good works, let us walk His ways under the guidance of the Gospel, that we may be found worthy of seeing Him who hath called us to His kingdom (cf 1 Thes 2:12).

If we desire to dwell in the tabernacle of His kingdom, we cannot reach it in any way, unless we run thither by good works. But let us ask the Lord with the Prophet, saying to Him: "Lord, who shall dwell in Thy tabernacle, or who shall rest in Thy holy hill" (Ps 14[15]:1)?

After this question, brethren, let us listen to the Lord answering and showing us the way to this tabernacle, saying: "He that walketh without blemish and worketh justice; he that speaketh truth in his heart; who hath not used deceit in his tongue, nor hath done evil to his neighbor, nor hath taken up a reproach against his neighbor" (Ps 14[15]:2-3), who hath brought to naught the foul demon tempting him, casting him out of his heart with his temptation, and hath taken his evil thoughts whilst they were yet weak and hath dashed them against Christ (cf Ps 14[15]:4; Ps 136[137]:9); who fearing the Lord are not puffed up by their goodness of life, but holding that the actual good which is in them cannot be done by themselves, but by the Lord, they praise the Lord working in them (cf Ps 14[15]:4), saying with the Prophet: "Not to us, O Lord, not to us; by to Thy name give glory" (Ps 113[115:1]:9). Thus also the Apostle Paul hath not taken to himself any credit for his preaching, saying: "By the grace of God, I am what I am" (1 Cor 15:10). And again he saith: "He that glorieth, let him glory in the Lord" (2 Cor 10:17).


Martyrology-May 6th
Roman Martyrology-May 6th- on this date in various years-

For 2013 At Rome, the Lesser Litanies in the church of St. Mary Major.

At Rome, the Apostle and Evangelist St. John before the Latin Gate. He was bound and brought to Rome from Ephesus by the order of Domitian, and the Senate condemned him to be taken to that gate and placed in a cauldron of boiling oil, from which he came forth more healthy and vigorous than before.

At Damascus, the birthday of St. John Damascene, priest and doctor of the Church, renowned for sanctity and learning. By means of his writing and preaching, he courageously resisted Leo the Isaurian, in defending the veneration paid to sacred images. By order of this emperor his right hand was cut off, but commending himself before an image of the Blessed Virgin Mary, which he had defended, his hand was immediately restored to him, entire and sound. His feast day is the 27th of March.

At Cyrene in Africa, Bishop St. Lucius, who is mentioned by St. Luke in the Acts of the Apostles.

At Antioch, St. Evodius, who, as the blessed Ignatius wrote to the people of Antioch, was consecrated first bishop of that city by the apostle St. Peter, and ended his life by a glorious martyrdom.

In Africa, the holy martyrs Heliodorus and Venustus and seventy-five others.

In Cyprus, St. Theodotus, bishop of Cyrinia, who having undergone grievous afflictions under Emperor Licinius, at length yielded his soul to God when peace was restored to the Church.

At Carrhae in Mesopotamia, St. Protogenes, bishop and confessor.

In England, St. Eadbert, bishop of Lindisfarne, famed for his teachings and his piety.

At Rome, the virgin St. Benedicta.

At Salerno, the translation of St. Matthew, apostle and evangelist. His revered body, previously transferred from Ethiopia to various countries, was finally taken to Salerno, and with great pomp was there placed in a church dedicated to his name.

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 May 6:

PROLOGUE (cont.)

Hence, the Lord also saith in the Gospel: "He that heareth these my words and doeth them, shall be likened to a wise man who built his house upon a rock; the floods came, the winds blew, and they beat upon that house, and it fell not, for it was founded on a rock" (Mt 7:24-25). The Lord fulfilling these words waiteth for us from day to day, that we respond to His holy admonitions by our works. Therefore, our days are lengthened to a truce for the amendment of the misdeeds of our present life; as the Apostle saith: "Knowest thou not that the patience of God leadeth thee to penance" (Rom 2:4)? For the good Lord saith: "I will not the death of the sinner, but that he be converted and live" (Ezek 33:11).

Martyrology-May 7th
Roman Martyrology-May 7th- on this date in various years-

For 2013  At Rome, the Lesser Litanies in the church of St. John Lateran.

St. Stanislas, bishop of Cracow and martyr, who received the crown of martyrdom on the day following this.

At Terracina in Campania, the birthday of blessed Flavia Domitilla, virgin and martyr, and niece of the holy martyr, the Consul Flavius Clemens. She received the religious veil at the hands of St. Clement, and in the persecution of Domitian was exiled with many others to the island of Pontia, where endured a long martyrdom for Christ. Taken afterwards to Terracina, she converted many to the faith of Christ by her teachings and miracles. The judge ordered the room in which she was with the virgins Euphrosina and Theodora, to be set on fire, and she thus completed her glorious martyrdom. She is also mentioned with the holy martyrs Nereus, Achilleus and Pancras, on the 12th day of this month.

On the same day, St. Juvenal, martyr.

At Nicomedia, the holy martyrs Flavius, Augustus and Augustine, all brothers.

In the same city, St. Quadratus, martyr, who was frequently tortured in the persecution of Decius, and at last beheaded.

At York in England, St. John, bishop, renowned for a saintly life and miracles.

At Rome, the translation of the body of St. Stephen protomartyr, which was brought from Constantinople to Rome by Pope Pelagius I, and laid in the sepulchre of the martyr St. Lawrence in the Agro Verano, where it is honoured with great devotion by the pious faithful.

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 May 7:

PROLOGUE (cont.)

Now, brethren, that we have asked the Lord who it is that shall dwell in His tabernacle, we have heard the conditions for dwelling there; and if we fulfil the duties of tenants, we shall be heirs of the kingdom of heaven. Our hearts and our bodies must, therefore, be ready to do battle under the biddings of holy obedience; and let us ask the Lord that He supply by the help of His grace what is impossible to us by nature. And if, flying from the pains of hell, we desire to reach life everlasting, then, while there is yet time, and we are still in the flesh, and are able during the present life to fulfil all these things, we must make haste to do now what will profit us forever.

Martyrology-May 8th
Roman Martyrology-May 8th- on this date in various years-

For 2013 The Vigil of the Ascension of our Lord Jesus Christ.

For 2013  At Rome, the Lesser Litanies in the church of St. Peter.

On Mount Gargano, the apparition of St. Michael Archangel, whom Pope Pius XII named the patron and protector of radiologists and radiotherapists.

At Cracow in Poland, the birthday of St. Stanislas, bishop and martyr, who was slain by the wicked King Boleslas. His feast was celebrated on the previous day.

At Milan, the birthday of th holy martyr Victor, a Moor. He became a Christian in his youth and served in the imperial army. When Maximian wished to force him to offer sacrifice to idols, he persevered with the greatest fortitude in the confession of the Lord. He was first beaten with rods, but by God's protection without feeling any pain. Following this, melted lead was poured over him, which did him no injury whatever. The career of his glorious martyrdom was finally ended by his being beheaded.

At Constantinople, St. Acathius, who, being denounced as a Christian by the tribune Firmus, and cruelly tortured at Perinthus by the judge Bibian, was finally condemned to death at Byzantium by the procunsul Flaccinus. His body was afterwards miraculously brought to the shore of Squillace in Calabria, where it is preserved with honour.

At Rome, Pope St. Boniface IV, who dedicated the Pantheon to the honour of our Lady and the martyrs.

Also at Rome, St. Benedict II, pope and confessor.

At Vienne in France, St. Denis, bishop and confessor.

At Auxerre, St. Helladius, bishop.

In the monastery of Bella Vallis, in the diocese of Besançon, St. Peter, Cistercian monk, who was made bishop of Tarantaise in Savoy.

At Ruremonde in Holland, St. Wiro, bishop of Scotland.

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 May 8:

PROLOGUE (cont.)

We are, therefore, about to found a school of the Lord's service, in which we hope to introduce nothing harsh or burdensome. But even if, to correct vices or to preserve charity, sound reason dictateth anything that turneth out somewhat stringent, do not at once fly in dismay from the way of salvation, the beginning of which cannot but be narrow. But as we advance in the religious life and faith, we shall run the way of God's commandments with expanded hearts and unspeakable sweetness of love; so that never departing from His guidance and persevering in the monastery in His doctrine till death, we may by patience share in the sufferings of Christ, and be found worthy to be coheirs with Him of His kingdom.

Martyrology-May 9th
Roman Martyrology-May 9th- on this date in various years-

For 2013  On Mount Olivet, the Ascension of our Lord Jesus Christ.

At Nazianzum, the birthday of St. Gregory, bishop, confessor, and doctor of the Church, surnamed the Theologian because of his remarkable knowledge of divinity. At Constantinople, he restored the Catholic faith which was fast waning, and repressed the rising heresies.

At Rome, St. Hermas, mentioned by the apostle St. Paul in the Epistle to the Romans. Generously sacrificing himself, he became an offering acceptable to God, and outstanding for his virtues he took his departure for the heavenly kingdom.

At Cagli, on the Flaminian Way, the passion of St. Gerontius, bishop of Cervia.

In Persia, three hundred and ten holy martyrs.

In Egypt, the abbot St. Pachomius, who founded many monasteries in that country, and wrote a rule for monks which he had learned from the dictation of an angel.

In the town of Windisch in France, the death of St. Beatus, confessor.

At Bologna, blessed Nicholas Albergati, a Carthusian monk, bishop of that city, and cardinal of the Holy Roman Church, celebrated for his sanctity and and for his work as an apostolic legate. His body was buried at Florence in the monastery of the Carthusians.

At Constantinople, the translation of the apostle St. Andrew and the evangelist St. Luke, out of Achaia, and of Timothy, disciple of the blessed apostle Paul, from Ephesus. The body of St. Andrew, long after, was conveyed to Amalfi, where it is honoured by the pious gatherings of the faithful. From his tomb there continually flows a liquid which heals diseases.

At Rome, also, the translation of St. Jerome, priest, confessor, and doctor of the Church. His body was taken from Bethlehem of Judea to the basilica of St. Mary of the Manger.

At Bari in Apulia, the translation also of St. Nicholas, bishop and confessor, from Myra, a city of Lycia.

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 May 9:

CHAPTER I
Of the Kinds or the Life of Monks

It is well known that there are four kinds of monks. The first kind is that of Cenobites, that is, the monastic, who live under a rule and an Abbot.

The second kind is that of Anchorites, or Hermits, that is, of those who, no longer in the first fervor of their conversion, but taught by long monastic practice and the help of many brethren, have already learned to fight against the devil; and going forth from the rank of their brethren well trained for single combat in the desert, they are able, with the help of God, to cope single-handed without the help of others, against the vices of the flesh and evil thoughts.

But a third and most vile class of monks is that of Sarabaites, who have been tried by no rule under the hand of a master, as gold is tried in the fire (cf Prov 27:21); but, soft as lead, and still keeping faith with the world by their works, they are known to belie God by their tonsure. Living in two's and three's, or even singly, without a shepherd, enclosed, not in the Lord's sheepfold, but in their own, the gratification of their desires is law unto them; because what they choose to do they call holy, but what they dislike they hold to be unlawful.

But the fourth class of monks is that called Landlopers, who keep going their whole life long from one province to another, staying three or four days at a time in different cells as guests. Always roving and never settled, they indulge their passions and the cravings of their appetite, and are in every way worse than the Sarabaites. It is better to pass all these over in silence than to speak of their most wretched life.

Therefore, passing these over, let us go on with the help of God to lay down a rule for that most valiant kind of monks, the Cenobites.

Martyrology-May 10th
Roman Martyrology-May 10th- on this date in various years-

St. Antoninus of the Order of Preachers, confessor and archbishop of Florence, whose birthday is the 2nd of May.

At Rome, on the Via Latina, the birthday of the holy martyrs Gordian and Epimachus. In the time of Julian the Apostate, the former was a long time scourged and finally beheaded for confessing the name of Christ. He was buried at night by the Christians, in a crypt to which, shortly before, the remains of the blessed martyr Epimachus had been transferred from Alexandria, where he had been martyred for the faith of Christ on the 12th of December.

In the land of Hus, the holy prophet Job, a man of wonderful patience.

At Rome, the blessed priest and martyr Caleposius, who was killed with the sword by order of Emperor Alexander. His body was dragged through the city and thrown into the Tiber. It was afterwards found and buried by Pope Callistus. The consul Palmatius was also beheaded with his wife, his sons, and forty-two of both sexes belonging to his household; likewise the senator Simplicius with his wife, and sixty-eight of his house; Felix also with his wife Blanda. The heads of all these martyrs were exposed over different gates of the city in order to terrify the Christians.

Also at Rome, on the Via Latina, the birthday of the holy martyrs Quartus and Quinctus, whose bodies were translated to Capua.

At Lentini in Sicily, the holy martyrs Alphius, Philadelphis, and Cyrinus.

At Smyrna, St. Dioscorides, martyr.

At Taranto, St. Cataldus, a bishop renowned for miracles.

At Madrid, St. Isidore the Farmer. Being well known for his miracles, Pope Gregory XV placed him in the number of saints at the same time with St. Ignatius, St. Francis Xavier, St. Teresa, and St. Philip Neri.

At Milan, the finding of the bodies of the holy martyrs Nazarius and Celsus. The blessed bishop Ambrose found the body of St. Nazarius covered with blood still fresh, and transferred it to the Basilica of the Apostles, together with the body of the blessed Celsus, a youth whom Nazarius had taken care of, and whom Anolinus, in the persecution of Nero, had ordered to be slain with the sword on the 28th of July, on which day their martyrdom is commemorated.

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 May 10:

CHAPTER II
What Kind of Man the Abbot Ought to Be

The Abbot who is worthy to be over a monastery, ought always to be mindful of what he is called, and make his works square with his name of Superior. For he is believed to hold the place of Christ in the monastery, when he is called by his name, according to the saying of the Apostle: "You have received the spirit of adoption of sons, whereby we cry Abba (Father)" (Rom 8:15). Therefore, the Abbot should never teach, prescribe, or command (which God forbid) anything contrary to the laws of the Lord; but his commands and teaching should be instilled like a leaven of divine justice into the minds of his disciples.

Martyrology-May 11th
Roman Martyrology-May 11th- on this date in various years-

At Rome, on the Salarian Way, the birthday of blessed Anthimus, priest, who, after having distinguished himself by his virtues and preaching, was cast into the Tiber during the persecution of Diocletian. He was rescued by an angel and restored to his oratory. Afterwards he was beheaded, and went victoriously to heaven.

In the same place, St. Evelius, martyr, who belonged to the household of Nero. By witnessing the martyrdom of St. Torpes, he also believed in Christ, and for him was beheaded.

Also at Rome, on the Salarian Way, the holy martyrs Maximus, Bassus, and Fabius, who were put to death during the reign of Diocletian.

At Osimo in Piceno, the holy martyrs Sisinius, a deacon, Diocletius and Florentius, disciples of the priest St. Anthimus, whose martyrdom was completed under Diocletian by their being stoned.

At Camerino, the holy martyrs Anastasius and his companions who were killed in the persecution of Decius, under the governor Antiochus.

At Varennes in France, St. Gangulphus, martyr.

At Vienne in France, St. Mamertus, bishop, who, to avert an impending calamity, instituted in that city the three days' Litanies immediately before the Ascension of our Lord. This rite was afterwards received and approved by the universal Church.

At Souvigny in France, the death of St. Maieul, abbot of Cluny, whose life was distinguished for merits and sanctity.

At Naples in Campania, St. Francis of Jerome, priest of the Society of Jesus, and confessor. He was born in the town of Grottaglia, in the diocese of Taranto. Having been a man of great patience and zeal for the salvation of souls, he was canonized by Pope Gregory XVI.

At San Severino in Piceno, St. Illuminatus, confessor.

At Cagliari in Sardinia, St. Ignatius of Laconi, confessor, of the Minor Order of Capuchins, distinguished for his humility, charity and miracles. He was accorded the honour of canonization by Pope Pius XII.

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 May 11:

CHAPTER II
What Kind of Man the Abbot Ought to Be (cont.)

Let the Abbot always bear in mind that he must give an account in the dread judgment of God of both his own teaching and of the obedience of his disciples. And let the Abbot know that whatever lack of profit the master of the house shall find in the sheep, will be laid to the blame of the shepherd. On the other hand he will be blameless, if he gave all a shepherd's care to his restless and unruly flock, and took all pains to correct their corrupt manners; so that their shepherd, acquitted at the Lord's judgment seat, may say to the Lord with the Prophet: "I have not hid Thy justice within my heart. I have declared Thy truth and Thy salvation" (Ps 39[40]:11). "But they contemning have despised me" (Is 1:2; Ezek 20:27). Then at length eternal death will be the crushing doom of the rebellious sheep under his charge.

Martyrology-May 12th
Roman Martyrology-May 12th- on this date in various years-

At Rome, on the Ardeatine Way, the holy martyrs Nereus and Achilleus, brothers, who underwent a long exile for Christ in the island of Pontia with Flavia Domitilla, whose chamberlains they were. Afterwards they endured a most severe scourging. Finally, as the judge, Minutius Rufus, endeavoured by using the rack and fire to force them to offer sacrifices, they said that having been baptized by the blessed apostle Peter, they could by no means sacrifice to idols. They were beheaded, and their revered remains, with those of Flavia Domitilla, were, by order of Pope Clement VIII, solemnly transferred the day before this, from the sacristy of St. Adrian to the church in which they had been kept in the first place, and which was now repaired. He also ordered today's observance of the feast of St. Domitilla, the virgin, whose martyrdom was mentioned on the 7th of May.

In the same place, on the Aurelian Way, the holy martyr Pancras who at fourteen years of age endured martyrdom by being beheaded under Diocletian.

At Salamis in Cyprus, St. Epiphanius, a bishop of great erudition, with a profound knowledge of the Holy Scriptures. He is to be admired for the sanctity of his life, his zeal for the Catholic faith, his charity to the poor, and the gift of miracles.

At Constantinople, St. Germanus, a bishop distinguished by his virtues and learning, who faithfully opposed Leo the Isaurian for publishing an edict against sacred images.

At Treves, St. Modoaldus, bishop.

At Rome, St. Denis, uncle of the martyr St. Pancras.

At Agirone in Sicily, St. Philip, a priest who was sent to that island by the Roman Pontiff, and converted to Christ a great portion of it. His sanctity is particularly manifested by the deliverance of persons possessed.

In the city of Calzada in Spain, St. Dominic, confessor.

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 May 12:

CHAPTER II
What Kind of Man the Abbot Ought to Be (cont.)

When, therefore, anyone taketh the name of Abbot he should govern his disciples by a twofold teaching; namely, he should show them all that is good and holy by his deeds more than by his words; explain the commandments of God to intelligent disciples by words, but show the divine precepts to the dull and simple by his works. And let him show by his actions, that whatever he teacheth his disciples as being contrary to the law of God must not be done, "lest perhaps when he hath preached to others, he himself should become a castaway" (1 Cor 9:27), and he himself committing sin, God one day say to him: "Why dost thou declare My justices, and take My covenant in thy mouth? But thou hast hated discipline, and hast cast My words behind thee" (Ps 49[50]:16-17). And: "Thou who sawest the mote in thy brother's eye, hast not seen the beam in thine own" (Mt 7:3).

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

St. Robert Bellarmine, of the Society of Jesus, cardinal and one time bishop of Capua, confessor and doctor of the Church, whose birthday is kept on the 17th of September.

At Rome, in the time of Emperor Phocas, the dedication of the church of St. Mary of the Martyrs, formerly a temple of all the gods, called the Pantheon, which was purified and dedicated by the blessed Pope Bonface IV to the honour of the Blessed Mary ever Virgin, and of all the martyrs. The solemn anniversary of this dedication was later ordered to be kept by Pope Gregory IV as the Feast of All Saints on the 1st of November.

At Constantinople, under Emperor Diocletian and the proconsul Laudicius, the blessed Mucius, priest and martyr, who endured many tribulations and torments for the confession of Christ at Amphipolis, and then being taken to Byzantium, suffered death.

At Alexandria, the commemoration of many holy martyrs, who were put to death for the Catholic faith by the Arians in the church of St. Theonas.

At Heraclea in Thrace, St. Glyceria, a Roman martyr who suffered many severe torments under Emperor Antonius and the governor Sabinus. By the help of God having escaped them all unharmed, she was finally thrown to the wild beasts, and when the first one had bitten her body, she rendered her soul to God.

At Utrecht, St. Servatius, bishop of Tongres, whose grave, as a public sign of his merit, was free from snow during winter (although everything around was covered with it), until the inhabitants built a church over it.

In Palestine, St. John the Silent, who resigned the see of Colonia in Armenia and retired to the monastery of St. Sabbas until his saintly death.

At La Puye in the diocese of Poitiers, St. André-Hubert Fournet, confessor and one time parish priest, and founder with St. Elizabeth-Lucie Bichier des Ages of the Institute of the Daughters of the Holy Cross. He was placed on the roll of the saints 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 May 13:

CHAPTER II
What Kind of Man the Abbot Ought to Be (cont.)

Let him make no distinction of persons in the monastery. Let him not love one more than another, unless it be one whom he findeth more exemplary in good works and obedience. Let not a free-born be preferred to a freedman, unless there be some other reasonable cause. But if from a just reason the Abbot deemeth it proper to make such a distinction, he may do so in regard to the rank of anyone whomsoever; otherwise let everyone keep his own place; for whether bond or free, we are all one in Christ (cf Gal 3:28; Eph 6:8, and we all bear an equal burden of servitude under one Lord, "for there is no respect of persons with God" (Rom 2:11). We are distinguished with Him in this respect alone, if we are found to excel others in good works and in humility. Therefore, let him have equal charity for all, and impose a uniform discipline for all according to merit.

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

At Tarsus in Cilicia, the birthday of the holy martyr Boniface, who suffered under Diocletian and Maximian. His body was subsequently taken to Rome and buried on the Via Latina.

In France, St. Pontius, martyr. Having by his preaching and his zeal converted to the faith of Christ the two Caesars Philippi, he obtained the palm of martyrdom under the emperors Valerian and Gallienus.

In Syria, the holy martyrs Victor and Corona, under Emperor Antoninus. Victor was subjected to diverse and horrible torments by the judge Sebastian. Just then, as Corona, the the wife of a certain soldier, proclaimed him blessed for his constancy in his sufferings, she saw two crowns falling from heaven, one for Victor, the other for herself. She related this to all present, and was torn to pieces between two trees, while Victor was beheaded.

In Sardinia, the holy martyrs Justa, Justina, and Henedina.

At Ferentino in Tuscany, Bishop St. Boniface, who was renowned for sanctity and miracles from his childhood as is told by the blessed Pope Gregory.

In the town of Betharram in the diocese of Bayonne, St. Michael Garricoits, confessor, and founder of the Congregation of the Priests of the Sacred Heart, renowned for his apostolic fervour. Pope Pius XII added him to the roll of saints.

At Nizza Monferrato in Italy, St. Mary Dominica Mazzarello, co-founder of the Daughters of Mary Help of Christians, and renowned for her humility, prudence and charity. She was added to the book of Virgins by Pope Pius XII.

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 May 14:

CHAPTER II
What Kind of Man the Abbot Ought to Be (cont.)

For in his teaching the Abbot should always observe that principle of the Apostle in which he saith: "Reprove, entreat, rebuke" (2 Tm 4:2), that is, mingling gentleness with severity, as the occasion may call for, let him show the severity of the master and the loving affection of a father. He must sternly rebuke the undisciplined and restless; but he must exhort the obedient, meek, and patient to advance in virtue. But we charge him to rebuke and punish the negligent and haughty. Let him not shut his eyes to the sins of evil-doers; but on their first appearance let him do his utmost to cut them out from the root at once, mindful of the fate of Heli, the priest of Silo (cf 1 Sam 2:11-4:18). The well-disposed and those of good understanding, let him correct at the first and second admonition only with words; but let him chastise the wicked and the hard of heart, and the proud and disobedient at the very first offense with stripes and other bodily punishments, knowing that it is written: "The fool is not corrected with words" (Prov 29:19). And again: "Strike thy son with the rod, and thou shalt deliver his soul from death" (Prov 23:14).

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

St. John Baptist de la Salle, priest and confessor, who founded the Society of Brothers of the Christian Schools. He went to rest in the Lord on the 7th of April.

In Spain, the Saints Torquatus, Ctesiphon, Secundus, Indaletius, Cecilius, Hesychius, and Euphrasius, who were consecrated bishops at Rome by the holy apostles, and sent to Spain to preach the word of God. When they had evangelized various cities, and brought innumerable multitudes under the yoke of Christ, they rested in peace in different places in that country: Torquatus at Cadiz, Ctesiphon at Vierco, Secundus at Avila, Indaletius at Portilla, Cecilius at Elvira, Hesychius at Gibraltar, and Euphrasius at Anduxar.

At Fausina in Sardinia, in the time of Diocletian and the governor Barbarus, Bishop St. Simplicius, who was pierced with a lance and thus gained martyrdom.

At Evora in Portugal, St. Mancius, martyr.

In the island of Chio, the birthday of blessed Isidore, martyr, in whose church is a well into which he is said to have been thrown. By drinking of the water of this well, the sick are frequently cured.

At Lampascum in the Hellespont, the martyrdom of the Saints Peter, Andrew, Paul, and Dionysia.

In the Auvergne in France, the holy martyrs Cassius, Victorinus, Maximus, and their companions.

At Gheel in Brabant, St. Dympna, virgin and martyr, daughter of the king of Ireland. By order of her father, she was beheaded for the faith of Christ and the preservation of her virginity.

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 May 15:

CHAPTER II
What Kind of Man the Abbot Ought to Be (cont.)

The Abbot ought always to remember what he is and what he is called, and to know that to whom much hath been entrusted, from him much will be required; and let him understand what a difficult and arduous task he assumeth in governing souls and accommodating himself to a variety of characters. Let him so adjust and adapt himself to everyone -- to one gentleness of speech, to another by reproofs, and to still another by entreaties, to each one according to his bent and understanding -- that he not only suffer no loss in his flock, but may rejoice in the increase of a worthy fold.

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

At Gubbio, St. Ubaldus, bishop and confessor renowned for his miracles.

At Auxerre, the passion of St. Peregrinus, first bishop of that city. He was sent into France with other clerics by the blessed Pope Sixtus II, and having accomplished his work of preaching the Gospel, he was condemned to capital punishment, and merited for himself an everlasting crown.

In Persia, the holy martyrs Audas, a bishop, seven priests, nine deacons and seven virgins, who endured various kins of torments under King Isdegerdes, and thus gloriously completed their martyrdom.

At Prague in Bohemia, St. John Nepomucene, a canon of the cathedral church, who, being tempted in vain to betray the secret of confession, was cast into the River Moldau, and thus won the palm of martyrdom.

In Isauria, the birthday of the holy martyrs Aquilinus and Victorian.

At Uzalis in Africa, the holy martyrs Felix and Gennadius.

In Palestine, the martyrdom of the holy monks massacred by the Saracens in the monastery of St. Sabbas.

At Janow, near Pinsk in Lithuania, St. Andrew Bobola, priest of the Society of Jesus, who having suffered many kinds of torments at the hands of the schismatics, was crowned with an illustrious martyrdom.

At Amiens in France, St. Honoratus, bishop.

At Le Mans in France, St. Domnolus, bishop.

At Mirandola in Aemilia, St. Possidius, bishop of Calamae, and disciple of St. Augustine, of whose glorious life he wrote a history.

In the monastery of Enachduin in Ireland, the death of St. Brendan, abbot of Clonfert.

At Treves in France, St. Fidolus, confessor.

At Frejus in France, St. Maxima, virgin, who died in peace with a reputation for many virtues.

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