RULE/MARTYROLOGY THREAD

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The reading appointed from the Rule of St. Benedict for July 7:


CHAPTER XXX
How the younger boys are to be corrected


Every age and understanding should have its proper measure of discipline. As often, therefore, as boys or others under age, or unable to understand the greatness of the penalty of excommunication, commit faults, let them be punished by severe fasting or sharp stripes, in order that they may be cured.


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


St. Elisabeth, widow, queen of Portugal, whose birthday is observed on the 4th of July.


In Asia Minor, the Saints Aquilla and his wife Priscilla, of whom mention is made in the Acts of the Apostles.


At Wurtzburg in Germany, St. Kilian, bishop, who was commissioned by the Roman Pontiff to preach the Gospel. After having converted many to Christ, he was put to death along with his companions Colman, a priest, and Totnan, a deacon.


At Porto, fifty holy martyrs, all soldiers, who were led to the faith by the martyrdom of St. Bonosa, and baptized by the blessed Pope Felix. They were put to death in the persecution of Aurelian.


In Palestine, in the reign of Diocletian, St. Procopius, martyr, who was brought from Scythopolis to Caesarea, and upon his first resolute answer was beheaded by the judge Fabian.


At Constantinople, the holy Abrahamite monks, who resisted Emperor Theophilus by defending the veneration of sacred images, and suffered martyrdom.


At Spina Lamberti in Emilia, Pope St. Adrian III, famous for his zeal in reconciling the Eastern to the Roman Church, and renowned for his miracles. His body was taken to the monastery of Nonantola and buried with honours in the Church of St. Sylvester.


At Treves, St. Auspicius, bishop and confessor.


At Rome, blessed Eugene II, pope. Having gained a great reputation for sanctity and prudence in his government of the monastery of Saints Vincent and Anastasius, he was raised to the Sovereign Pontificate and ruled the universal Church in much holiness. Pope Pius IX approved and confirmed the veneration paid to him.


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 July 8:


CHAPTER XXXI
What kind of Man the Cellarer of the Monastery is to be


Let there be chosen out of the community, as Cellarer of the Monastery, a man wise and of mature character, temperate, not a great eater, not haughty, nor headstrong, nor arrogant, not slothful, nor wasteful, but a God-fearing man, who may be like a father to the whole community. Let him have the care of everything, but do nothing without leave of the Abbot. Let him take heed to what is commanded him, and not sadden his brethren. If a brother ask him for anything unreasonably, let him not treat him with contempt and so grieve him, but reasonably and with all humility refuse what he asks for amiss. Let him be watchful over his own soul, remembering always that saying of the Apostle, that "he that hath ministered well, purchaseth to himself a good degree." Let him have especial care of the sick, of the children, of guests and of the poor, knowing without doubt that he will have to render an account of all these on the Day of Judgment. Let him look upon all the vessels and goods of the Monastery as though they were the consecrated vessels of the altar. Let him not think that he may neglect anything: let him not be given to covetousness, nor wasteful, nor a squanderer of the goods of the Monastery; but do all things in proper measure, and according to the bidding of his Abbot.


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


At Rome, at the Ever-flowing Spring, the birthday of St. Zeno and ten thousand two hundred and three other martyrs.


At Gortyna in Crete, in the persecution of Decius, under the governor Lucius, Bishop St. Cyril. When he was thrown into the flames his bonds were burned, but he was not injured. The judge, struck with awe at so great a miracle, set him at liberty, but as the saint began again immediately to preach with zeal the faith of Christ, he was beheaded.


At Briel in Holland, the passion of the nineteen martyrs of Gorcum. Of these, nine priests and two lay brothers were of the Order of Friars Minor, four were secular priests, two Premonstratensians, one Canon Regular of St. Augustine, and one Dominican. For vindicating the authority of the Roman Church and the real presence of Christ in the Eucharist, they endured various insults and torments from the Calvinist heretics, and their great suffering was ended by all of them being hanged. Pope Pius IX included them in the number of holy martyrs.


In the town of Thora, on Lake Velino in Italy, the martyrdom of the Saints Anatolia and Audax, under Ermperor Decius. Anatolia, a virgin consecrated to Christ, cured many persons afflicted with various infirmities throughout the province of Piceno, and made them believe in Christ. By order of the judge Faustinian she was condemned to different kinds of punishment. She was cured of the sting of a serpent to which she had been exposed, a miracle that converted Audax to the faith. At last, praying with outstretched hands, she was pierced with a sword. Audax was sent to prison, and without delay sentenced to capital punishment, thus obtaining the crown of martyrdom.


At Alexandria, the holy martyrs Patermuthius, Copres, and Alexander, who were put to death under Julian the Apostate.


At Martula in Umbria, St. Brictius, bishop. Under the judge Marcian, after having suffered much for the confession of our Lord, and having converted to Christ a great multitude of people, he rested in peace, a confessor.


At Tiferno in Umbria, St. Veronica Giuliani, a nun of the second Order of St. Francis and abbess of the monastery in that town. Born at Mercatello in the diocese of Urbania, she became illustrious by her great love for suffering and other virtues, and by her heavenly gifts. She was inscribed among the holy virgins by Pope Gregory XVI.


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 July 9:


CHAPTER XXXI
What kind of Man the Cellarer of the Monastery is to be (cont.)


Let him above all things have humility; and to him on whom he hath nothing else to bestow, let him give at least a kind answer, as it is written: "A good word is above the best gift." Let him have under his care all that the Abbot may enjoin him, and presume not to meddle with what is forbidden him. Let him distribute to the brethren their appointed allowance of food, without arrogance* or delay, that they be not scandalised: mindful of what the Word of God declareth him to deserve, who "shall scandalise one of these little ones" namely, "that a millstone be hanged about his neck and that he be drowned in the depths of the sea." If the community be large, let helpers be given to him, by whose aid he may with peace of mind discharge the office committed to him. Let such things as are necessary be given and asked for at befitting times, that no one may be troubled nor grieved in the house of God.


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


At Rome, the martyrdom of the seven holy brothers, sons of the saintly martyr Felicitas. They are Januarius, Felix, Philip, Sylvanus, Alexander, Vitalis, and Martial. They died in the time of Emperor Antoninus, under Publius, prefect of the city. Januarius, after being scourged with rods and detained in prison, died from the blows inflicted with leaded whips. Felix and Philip were scourged to death. Sylvanus was thrown headlong from a great height. Alexander, Vitalis, and Martial were beheaded.


Also at Rome, in the persecution of Valerian and Gallienus, the holy virgins and martyrs Rufina and Secunda, sisters. After being subjected to torments, and one having her head crushed with a sword, the other beheaded, they departed for heaven. Their bodies are kept with due honour in the Lateran basilica, near the baptistry.


In Africa, the holy martyrs Januarius, Marinus, Nabor and Felix, all of whom were beheaded.


At Nicopolis in Armenia, the holy martyrs Leontius, Mauritius, Daniel, and their companions, who were tortured in different ways, and being lastly cast into the fire, ended their long martyrdom in the time of Emperor Licinius and the governor Lysias.


In Pisidia, the holy martyrs Bianor and Silvanus, who were merited an immortal crown by being beheaded, after enduring most bitter torments for the name of Christ.


At Iconium, St. Apollonius, martyr, whose glorious martyrdom was fulfilled by death on the cross.


At Ghent in Flanders, St. Amelberga, 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 July 10:


CHAPTER XXXII
Of the Iron Tools and Property of the Monastery


Let the Abbot appoint brethren, on whose manner of life and character he can rely, to the charge of the iron tools, clothes, and other property of the Monastery; and let him consign to their care, as he shall think fit, the things to be kept and collected after use. Of these let the Abbot keep a list, so that as the brethren in turn succeed to different employments, he may know what he giveth and receiveth back. If any one treat the property of the Monastery in a slovenly or negligent manner, let him be corrected; and if he do not amend, let him be subjected to the discipline of the Rule.


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


At Rome, Pope Pius I, who was crowned with martyrdom in the persecution of Marcus Aurelius Antoninus.


At Bergamo, St. John, a bishop, who was killed by the Arians for defending the Catholic faith.


At Sida in Pamphylia, St. Cindeus, priest, in the time of Emperor Diocletian and the governor Stratonicus. After suffering many torments, he was thrown into the fire, but was not injured by it. He later yielded up his soul in prayer.


At Cordova in Spain, St. Abundius, a priest, crowned with martyrdom while preaching against the sect of Mohammed.


At Nicopolis in Armenia, the birthday of the holy martyrs Januarius and Pelagia, who for four days were racked, torn with iron claws and pieces of earthenware, and thus achieved their martyrdom.


In the territory of Sens, St. Sidronius, martyr.


At Iconium in Lycaonia, St. Marcian, martyr. He obtained the palm of martyrdom by many torments, under the governor Perennius.


At Brescia, the holy martyrs Savinus and Cyprian.


In the territory of Poitiers, St. Sabinus, 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 July 11:


CHAPTER XXXIII
Whether Monks ought to have anything of their own


The vice of private ownership is above all to be cut off from the Monastery by the roots. Let none presume to give or receive anything without leave of the Abbot, nor to keep anything as their own, either book or writing-tablet or pen, or anything whatsoever; since they are permitted to have neither body nor will in their own power. But all that is necessary they may hope to receive from the father of the Monastery: nor are they allowed to keep anything which the Abbot has not given, or at least permitted them to have. Let all things be common to all, as it is written: "Neither did anyone say that aught which he possessed was his own." But if any one shall be found to indulge in this most baneful vice, and after one or two admonitions do not amend, let him be subjected to correction.


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


In the monastery of Passignano, near Florence, Abbot St. John Gualbert, founder of the Order of Vallombrosa.


At Milan, the holy martyrs Nabor and Felix, who suffered in the persecution of Maximian. Their bodies were brought into the city by blessed Savina, and were honourably buried there.


In Cyprus, St. Jason, one of the first disciples of Christ.


At Lucca in Tuscany, blessed Paulinus, who was consecrated first bishop of that city by St. Peter. Under Nero he completed his martyrdom along with many others at the foot of Mt. Pisa, but only after many trials.


At Aquileia, the birthday of St. Hermagoras, disciple of the blessed evangelist Mark, and first bishop of that city. When performing miraculous cures, or while preaching, frequently bringing souls to repentance, he suffered many torments. Finally by capital punishment her merited an immortal triumph along with his deacon Fortunatus.


The same day, the Saints Proclus and Hilarion, who won the palm of martyrdom after most bitter torments, in the time of Emperor Trajan and the governor Maximus.


At Toledo in Spain, St. Marciana, virgin and martyr. For the faith of Christ, she was cast to the beasts, torn to pieces by a bull, and was thus crowned with martyrdom.


At Lentini, St. Epiphana, who, after her breasts were cut away, died in the time of Emperor Diocletian and the governor Tertillus.


At Lyons in France, St. Viventiolus,bishop.


At Bologna, St. Paternian, 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 July 12:


CHAPTER XXXIV
Whether all ought alike to receive what is needful


As it is written: "Distribution was made to every man, according as he had need." Herein we do not say that there should be respecting of persons  - God forbid - but consideration for infirmities. Let him, therefore, that hath need of less give thanks to God, and not be grieved; and let him who requireth more be humbled for his infirmity, and not made proud by the kindness shewn to him: and so all the members of the family shall be at peace. Above all, let not the evil of murmuring shew itself by the slightest word or sign on any account whatsoever. If anyone be found guilty herein, let him be subjected to severe punishment.


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


At Rome, St. Anacletus, pope and martyr, who governed the Church of God after St. Clement, and shed lustre upon it by a glorious martyrdom.


At Bamberg, the birthday of the Roman emperor St. Henry I, confessor. He led a life of perpetual virginity with his wife St. Cunegunde, and converted St. Stephen, king of Hungary,and almost all his people to the faith of Christ. His festival is celebrated on the 15th of July.


In Paleestine the holy prophets Joel and Esdras.


In Macedonia, blessed Silas, one of the first Christians. The apostles sent him with Paul and Barnabas to the churches of the gentiles. Filled with the grace of God, he zealously discharged the office of preaching, and after glorifying Christ by his sufferings, rested in peace.


Also, St. Serapion, martyr, who obtained the crown of martyrdom by fire, in the time of Emperor Severus and the governor Aquila.


In the island of Chio, in the time of Emperor Decius and the governor Numerian, the martyr St. Myrope. She went to the Lord after being beaten with clubs.


In Africa, the holy confessors Eugene, the faithful and virtuous bishop of Carthage, and all the clergy of that Church, to the number of about five hundred or more, among whom were many small children who performed the office of lector. In the persecution of the Vandals, under the Arian king Hunneric, they were subjected to scourging and starvation, and driven into a most painful banishment which they bore with joy for God's sake. In their number were also two distinguished persons, the archdeacon Salutaris, and Muritta, occupying the second rank among the ministers of the Church. Both had three times confessed the faith, and were illustrious by their sturdy perserverance in Christianity.


In Brittany, St. Turian, bishop and confessor, a man of admirable simplicity and innocence.


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 July 13:


CHAPTER XXXV
Of the Weekly Servers in the Kitchen


Let the brethren wait on one another in turn, so that none be excused from the work of the kitchen, except he be prevented by sickness or by some more necessary employment; for thus is gained a greater reward and an increase of charity. But let assistance be given to the weak, that they may not do their work with sadness; and let all have help according to the number of the community and the situation of the place. If the community be large, let the Cellarer be excused from work in the kitchen, and also those, as already mentioned, who are occupied in more urgent business. Let the rest serve each other in turn with all charity. Let him who endeth his week in the kitchen, make all things clean on Saturday, and wash the towels where with the brethren dry their hands and feet. Let both him who goeth out and him who is coming in wash the feet of all. Let him hand over to the Cellarer the vessels of his office, clean and whole; and let the Cellarer deliver the same to him who entereth, that he may know what he giveth and what he receiveth.


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


St. Bonaventure of the Order of Friars Minor, cardinal and bishop of Albano, confessor and doctor of the Church, who passed to the Lord on the day following this.


At Rome, the birthday of St. Camillus de Lellis, priest and confessor, founder of the Clerks Regular for Ministering to the Sick. Pope Benedict XIV numbered him among the saints because of the fame of his miracles and virtues; Pope Leo XIII appointed him heavenly protector of hospitals and of the sick. His feast is observed on the 18th of July.


Also at Rome, St. Justus, a soldier under the tribune Claudius. When a miraculous cross appeared to him he believed in Christ, was baptized, and gave away his goods to the poor. Afterwards arrested by the prefect Magnetius, he was scourged with rods, had a heated helmet put on his head, and was thrown into the fire, but received no injury, not even to a hair of his head. In the end he yielded up his soul confessing the Lord.


At Sinope in Pontus, the martyr St. Phocas, bishop of the city. Under Emperor Trajan, after having been imprisoned, bound, struck with the sword, and exposed to the fire for Christ, he departed to heaven. His remains were brought to Vienne in France, and deposited in the Church of the Holy Apostles.


At Alexandria, St. Heracles, bishop, whose fame was so great that the historian Africanus testifies that he journeyed to Alexandria to see him.


At Carthage, St. Cyrus, bishop, on whose festival St. Augustine spoke of him to his people.


At Como, St. Felix, first bishop of that city.


At Brescia, St. Optatian, bishop.


At Deventer in Belgium, St. Marcellinus, priest and confessor.


At Lima in Peru, St. Francis Solano, a priest and confessor of the Order of Friars Minor. He passed to the Lord in the West Indies, renowned for his preaching, miracles and virtues. Pope Benedict XIII placed him on the canon 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 July 14:


CHAPTER XXXV
Of the Weekly Servers in the Kitchen (cont.)


Let the weekly servers take each a cup of drink and a piece of bread over and above the refection, that so they may serve their brethren, when the hour cometh, without murmuring or great labour. On solemn days, however, let them forbear until after Mass.* On Sunday, as soon as Lauds are ended, let both the incoming and the outgoing servers fall on their knees before all, in the Oratory, and ask their prayers. Let him who endeth his week, say this verse: "Blessed art Thou Lord God, Who hast helped me and comforted me;" which being thrice repeated, he shall receive the blessing. Let him that beginneth his week follow, and say: "O God, come to my assistance: O Lord, make haste to help me." Let this likewise be thrice repeated by all; and having received the blessing, let him enter on his office.


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


St. Henry I, Roman emperor and confessor, whose birthday was noted on the 13th of this month.


At Lyons in France, the death of St. Bonaventure, cardinal and bishop of Albano, confessor and doctor of the Church, of the Order of Friars Minor, who is famed for his learning and the sanctity of his life. His feast is celebrated on the previous day.


At Pavia, St. Felix, bishop and martyr.


At Porto, the birthday of the holy martyrs Eutropius, and the sisters Zosima and Bonosa.


At Carthage, blessed Catulinus, deacon, whose glories were proclaimed by St. Augustine in a sermon to his people. Also the saints Januarius, Florentius, Julia, and Justa, martyrs, who were entombed in the Church of St. Faustus.


At Alexandria, the holy martyrs Philip, Zeno, Narseus, and ten children.


In the island of Tenedos, St. Abudemius, martyr, who suffered under Diocletian.


At Sebaste in Armenia, St. Antiochus, a physician, who was beheaded under the governor Adrian. On seeing milk flowing from his wounds instead of blood, Cyriacus, his executioner, was converted to Christ and endured martyrdom.


At Nisibis in Mesopotamia, the birthday of St. James, bishop of that city, a man celebrated for great holiness, miracles and learning. He was one of those who confessed the faith during the persecution of Galerius Maximian, and later condemned the perverse heresy of Arius in the Council of Nicaea by opposing to the doctrine of consubstantiality. It was also owing to his prayers, and those of the bishop Alexander, that Arius received at Constantinople the suitable punishment of his iniquity, his bowels gushing out.


At Naples in Campania, St. Athanasius, bishop of that city, who suffered a great deal from his wicked nephew Sergius, by whom he was driven from his diocese. Overcome with afflictions, he departed for heaven at Veroli, in the time of Charles the Bald.


At Campo in Italy, the birthday of St. Pompilio Maria Pirrotti of St. Nicholas, confessor, a member of the Congregation of Poor Clerks Regular of the Mother of God of Pious Schools, who spent his entire life in safeguarding the salvation of souls. He was registered among the saints by Pope Pius XI.


At Palermo, the finding of the body of St. Rosalia, virgin of that city. Miraculously discovered in the time of Pope Urban VIII, it delivered Sicily from the plague in the year of the Jubilee.


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 July 15:


CHAPTER XXXVI
Of the Sick Brethren


Before all things and above all things care is to be had of the sick, that they be served in very deed as Christ Himself, for He hath said: "I was sick, and ye visited Me." And, "What ye have done unto one of these little ones, ye have done unto Me." And let the sick themselves remember that they are served for the honour of God, and not grieve the brethren who serve them by unnecessary demands. Yet must they be patiently borne with, because from such as these is gained a more abundant reward. Let it be, therefore, the Abbot's greatest care that they suffer no neglect. And let a cell be set apart by itself for the sick brethren, and one who is God-fearing, diligent and careful, be appointed to serve them. Let the use of baths be allowed to the sick as often as may be expedient; but to those who are well, and especially to the young, let it be granted more seldom. Let the use of flesh meat also be permitted to the sick and to those who are very weakly, for their recovery: but when they are restored to health, let all abstain from meat in the accustomed manner. The Abbot must take all possible care that the sick be not neglected by the Cellarer or servers; because whatever is done amiss by his disciples is laid to his charge.


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


The feast of the Blessed Virgin Mary of Mount Carmel.


At Sebaste in Armenia, the holy martyrs Athenogenes, bishop, and ten of his disciples, in the time of Emperor Diocletian.


At Treves, St. Valentine, bishop and martyr.


At Cordova in Spain, St. Sisenand, cleric and martyr, who was strangled by the Saracens for the faith of Christ.


The same day, the birthday of St. Faustus, martyr, under Decius. He lived five days fastened to a cross, and being then pierced with arrows, he went to heaven.


At Saintes in France, the holy martyrs Raineld, virgin, and her companions who were slain by barbarians for the Christian faith.


At Bergamo, St. Domnio, martyr.


At Antioch, the birthday of blessed Eustace, bishop and confessor, celebrated for learning and sanctity. Under the Arian emperor Constantius, for the defence of the Catholic faith, he was banished to Trajanopolis in Thrace, where he rested in the Lord.


At Capua, St. Vitalian, bishop and confessor.


At the abbey of our Most Holy Redeemer, in the diocese of Coutances in France, St. Mary Magdalene Postel, foundress of the Sisters of Mercy of the Christian Schools, who was added to the list of the holy virgins by Pope Pius XI.


The translation of St. Hilarinus, a monk, to Ostia. He was arrested with St. Donatus in the persecution of Julian. Because he refused to sacrifice to idols, he was finally scourged at Arezzo in Tuscany, and underwent martyrdom on the 7th of August.


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 July 16:


CHAPTER XXXVII
Of Old Men and Children


Although human nature is of itself drawn to feel pity for these two times of life, namely, old age and infancy, yet the authority of the Rule should also provide for them. Let their weakness be always taken into account, and the strictness of the Rule respecting food be by no means kept in their regard; but let a kind consideration be shewn for them, and let them eat before the regular hours.


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


At Rome, St. Alexius, confessor, son of the senator Euphemian. Leaving his spouse before the night of marriage, he withdrew from his house, and after a long pilgrimage, returned to Rome where he was for seventeen years harboured in his father's house as an unknown pauper, thus deluding the world in this strange way. After his death, however, becoming known through a voice heard in the churches of the city, and by his own writings, he was, under the sovereign Pontiff Innocent I, translated to the Church of St. Boniface, where he wrought many miracles.


At Carthage, the birthday of the holy Scillitan martyrs Speratus, Narzales, Cythinus, Venturius, Felix, Acyllinus, Laetantius, Januaria, Generosa, Vestina, Donata, and Secunda. By order of the prefect Saturninus, after their first confession of the faith, they were sent to prison, nailed to a cross, and finally beheaded. The relics of Speratus, with the bones of blessed Cyprian and the head of the martyr, St. Pantaleon, were carried from Africa into France and honourably buried in the basilica of St. John the Baptist at Lyons.


At Amastris in Paphlagonia, St. Hyacinth, martyr, who died in prison after much suffering, under the prefect Castritus.


At Tivoli, St. Generosus, martyr.


At Constantinople, St. Theodota, martyr, under Leo the Iconoclast.


At Rome, the death of Pope St. Leo IV.


At Pavia, St. Ennodius, bishop and confessor.


At Auxerre, St. Theodosius, bishop.


At Milan, the virgin saint Marcellina, sister of the blessed bishop Ambrose, who received the religious veil from Pope Liberius, in the basilica of St. Peter at Rome. Her sanctity is attested to by St. Ambrose in his writings.


At Venice, the translation of St. Marina, 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 July 17:


CHAPTER XXXVIII
Of the Weekly Reader


Reading must not be wanting while the brethren eat at table; nor let any one who may chance to have taken up the book presume to read, but let him who is to read throughout the week begin upon the Sunday. After Mass and Communion, let him ask all to pray for him, that God may keep from him the spirit of pride. And let this verse be said thrice in the Oratory, he himself beginning it: "O Lord, Thou shalt open my lips, and my mouth shall declare Thy praise." And so, having received the blessing, let him enter on his reading. The greatest silence must be kept at table, so that no whispering may be heard there, nor any voice except that of him who readeth. And whatever is necessary for food or drink let the brethren so minister to each other, that no one need ask for anything: but should anything be wanted, let it be asked for by a sign rather than by the voice. And let no one presume to put any questions there, either about the reading or about anything else, lest it should give occasion for talking: unless perchance the Superior should wish to say a few words for the edification of the brethren. Let the brother who is reader for the week take a little bread and wine before he begin to read, on account of the Holy Communion,* and lest it be hard for him to fast so long. Afterwards let him take his meal with the weekly cooks and other servers. The brethren are not to read or sing according to their order, but such only as may edify the hearers.


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


St. Camillus de Lellis, priest and confessor, founder of the Clerks Regular Ministering to the Sick, the heavenly patron of hospitals and of the sick, whose birthday is the 14th day of July.


At Tivoli, in the time of Emperor Hadrian, St. Symphorosa, wife of the martyr St. Getulius, with her seven sons, Crescens, Julian, Nemesius, Primitivus, Justin, Stacteus, and Eugene. The mother, because of her invincible constancy, was first beaten a long time, then suspended by her hair, and lastly thrown into the river with a stone tied to her body. Her sons were stretched by pulleys attached to stakes, and completed their martyrdom in divers ways. Afterwards, their bodies were taken to Rome, and in the pontificate of Pius IV, were found in the sacristy of St. Angelo in Piscina.


At Utrecht, St. Frederick, bishop and martyr.


At Silisitria in Bulgaria, St. Emilian, martyr, who was cast into a furnace, in the time of Julian the Apostate, under the governor Capitolinus, and received the palm of martyrdom.


At Carthage, St. Gundenes, virgin. By order of the proconsul Ruffinus, she was at four different times stretched on the rack for the faith of Christ, horribly lacerated with iron hooks, confined for a long time in a filthy prison, and finally put to the sword.


In Spanish Galicia, St. Marina, virgin and martyr.


At Milan, in the reign of Maximian, the holy bishop Maternus. For the faith of Christ and the Church entrusted to him, he went to his rest in the Lord with a great renown for his repeated confession of the faith.


At Brescia, the birthday of St. Philastrius, bishop of that city, who both by word and writing opposed the heretics, especially the Arians, from whom he suffered greatly. Finally he died in peace, a confessor renowned for miracles.


At Metz in France, St. Arnulf, a bishop illustrious for holiness and miracles. He chose the life of a hermit and ended his blessed career in peace.


At Segni, St. Bruno, bishop and confessor.


At Forlimpopoli in Emilia, St. Ruffillus, bishop of that city.


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 July 18:


CHAPTER XXXIX
Of the Measure of Food


We think it sufficient for the daily meal, whether at the sixth or the ninth hour, that there be at all seasons of the year two dishes of cooked food, because of the weakness of different people; so that he who perchance cannot eat of the one, may make his meal of the other. Let two dishes, then, suffice for all the brethren; and if there be any fruit or young vegetables, let a third be added. Let one pound weight of bread suffice for the day, whether there be but one meal, or both dinner and supper. If they are to sup, let a third part of the pound be kept back by the Cellarer, and given to them for supper. If, however, their work chance to have been hard, it shall be in the Abbot's power, if he think fit, to make some addition, avoiding above everything, all surfeiting, that the monks be not overtaken by indigestion. For there is nothing so adverse to a Christian as gluttony, according to the words of Our Lord: "See that your hearts be not overcharged with surfeiting." And let not the same quantity be allotted to children of tender years, but less than to their elders, moderation being observed in every case. Let everyone abstain altogether from the flesh of four-footed animals, except the very weak and the sick.


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


St. Vincent de Paul, priest and confessor, founder of the priests of the Congregation of the Mission and the Sisters of Charity, the heavenly patron of all charitable organizations. He fell asleep in the Lord on the 27th of September.


At Colossae in Phrygia, the birthday of St. Epaphras, whom the apostle St. Paul calls his fellow-prisoner. By the same apostle he was consecrated bishop of Colossae, where, becoming renowned for his virtues, he received the palm of martyrdom for defending courageously the flock committed to his charge. His body lies at Rome in the basilica of St. Mary Major.


At Treves, St. Martin, bishop and martyr.


At Seville in Spain, the martyrdom of the holy virgins Justa and Rufina. Arrested by the governor Diogenian, they were stretched on the rack and lacerated with iron claws, then imprisoned and subjected to starvation and various tortures. Justa died in prison, but Rufina's neck was broken for the confession of the Lord.


At Cordova in Spain, St. Aura, virgin, the sister of the holy martyrs Adulphus and John. A Mohammedan judge had persuaded her to apostatize for a while, but quickly repenting of what she had done, in the second trial overcame the enemy by the shedding of her blood.


At Rome, Pope St. Symmachus, who for a long time had much to bear, from a faction of schismatics. At last, distinguished by holiness, he went to God.


At Verona, St. Felix, bishop.


At Scete, a mountain in Egypt, St. Arsenius, a deacon of the Roman Church. In the time of Theodosius he retired into a desert where, endowed with every virtue and shedding continual tears, he yielded his soul unto God.


In Cappadocia, St. Macrina, virgin. She was the daughter of Saints Basil and Emmelia, and the sister of the holy bishops, St. Basil the Great, St. Gregory of Nyssa, and St. Peter of Sebaste.


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 July 19:


CHAPTER XL
Of the Measure of Drink


Every one hath his proper gift from God, one after this manner, another after that. And, therefore, it is with some misgiving that we appoint the measure of other men's living. Yet, considering the infirmity of the weak, we think that one pint of wine a day is sufficient for each but let those to whom God gives the endurance of abstinence know that they shall have their proper reward. If, however, the situation of the place, the work, or the heat of summer require more, let it be in the power of the Superior to grant it; taking care in everything that surfeit or drunkenness creep not in. And although we read that wine ought by no means to be the drink of monks, yet since in our times monks cannot be persuaded of this, let us at least agree not to drink to satiety, but sparingly; because "wine maketh even the wise to fall away." But where the necessity of the place alloweth not even the aforesaid measure, but much less, or none at all, let those who dwell there bless God and not murmur. This above all we admonish, that there be no murmuring among them.


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


St. Jerome Emiliani, confessor, founder of the Congregation of Somascha, the heavenly patron of all orphans and destitute children. He fell asleep in the Lord on the 8th of February.


At Antioch, the passion of St. Margaret, virgin and martyr.


On Mount Carmel, the holy prophet Elijah.


In Judea, the birthday of blessed Joseph, surnamed the Just, whom the apostles selected with blessed Matthias for the apostleship to replace the traitor Judas. The lot having fallen upon Matthias, Joseph, notwithstanding, continued to preach and to advance in virtue, and after having sustained from the Jews many persecutions for the faith of Christ, he happily completed his life. It is related of him that having drunk poison, he received no injury from it, because of his confidence in the Lord.


At Cordova in Spain, St. Paul, deacon and martyr. For rebuking Mohammedan princes for their impiety and cruelty, and preaching Christ with constancy, he was put to death and went to his reward in heaven.


At Damascus, the holy martyrs Sabinus, Julian, Maximus, Macrobius, Cassia, and Paul, with ten others.


In Portugal, St. Wilgefortis, virgin and martyr, who merited the crown of martyrdom on a cross in defence of the faith and her chastity.


The same day, the birthday of St. Flavian II, bishop of Antioch, and St. Elias, bishop of Jerusalem. They were driven into exile by Emperor Anastasius for their defence of the Council of Chalcedon, and there they went victoriously to the Lord.


At Boulogne in France, the abbot St. Wulmar, a man of admirable sanctity.


At Treves, St. Severa, 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 July 20:


CHAPTER XLI
  At what Hours the Brethren are to take their Meals


From Holy Easter until Pentecost let the brethren dine at the sixth hour, and sup in the evening. But from Pentecost throughout the summer (unless they have to work in the fields, or are harrassed by excessive heat) let them fast on Wednesdays and Fridays until the ninth hour, but on other days dine at the sixth. Should they have field labour, or should the heat of the summer be very great, they must always take their dinner at the sixth hour. Let the Abbot provide for this, and let him so arrange and dispose all things, that souls may be saved, and that the brethren may do what they have to do without just cause for murmuring. From the fourteenth of September until the beginning of Lent let them always dine at the ninth hour; and during Lent, until Easter, in the evening. And let the hour of the evening meal be so ordered that they have no need of a lamp while eating, but let all be over while it is yet daylight. At all times, whether of dinner or supper, let the hour be so arranged that everything be done by daylight.


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


At Rome, the holy virgin Praxedes, who was brought up in all chastity and in the knowledge of the divine law. Diligently attending to watching, prayer, and fasting, she rested in Christ, and was buried near her sister Pudentiana on the Salarian Way.


At Babylon, the holy prophet Daniel.


At Comana in Armenia, the holy bishop and martyr Zoticus, who was crowned under Severus.


At Marseilles in France, the birthday of St. Victor, a soldier. Because he refused to serve in the army and sacrifice to idols, he was thrust into prison, where he was visited by an angel. He was subjected to various torments, and finally being crushed under a millstone, he ended his martyrdom. With him also suffered three soldiers, Alexander, Felician, and Longinus.


At Troyes in France, the martyrdom of the saints Claudius, Justus, Jucundinus, and five companions, in the time of Emperor Aurelian.


In the same place, St. Julia, virgin and martyr.


At Strasbourg, St. Arbogastus, a bishop, renowned for miracles.


In Syria, the holy monk John, a companion of St. Simeon.


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 July 21:


CHAPTER XLII
That no one may speak after Compline


Monks should love silence at all times, but especially during the hours of the night. Therefore, on all days, whether of fasting or otherwise, let them sit down all together as soon as they have risen from supper (if it be not a fast-day) and let one of them read the Conferences [of Cassian], or the lives of the Fathers, or some thing else which may edify the hearers. Not, however, Heptateuch, nor the Books of Kings for it will not profit those of weak understanding to hear those parts of Scripture at that hour *: they may, however, be read at other times. If it be a fast-day, then a short time after Vespers let them assemble for the reading of the Conferences, as we have said; four or five pages being read, or as much as time alloweth, so that during the reading all may gather together, even those who may have been occupied in some work enjoined them. Everyone, then, being assembled, let them say Compline; and when that is finished, let none be allowed to speak to any one. And if any one be found to evade this rule of silence, let him be subjected to severe punishment; unless the presence of guests should make it necessary, or the Abbot should chance to give any command. Yet, even then, let it be done with the utmost gravity and moderation.


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


At Marseilles in France, the birthday of St. Mary Magdalene, out of whom our Lord expelled seven demons, and who deserved to be the first to see the Saviour after he had risen from the dead.


At Philippi in Macedonia, St. Syntyche, mentioned by the blessed apostle Paul.


At Ancyra in Galatia, the birthday of the martyr St. Plato. Under the lieutenant-governor Agrippinus, he was scourged, lacerated with iron hooks, and subjected to the most atrocious torments, and finally being beheaded, he rendered his invincible soul to God. The Acts of the Second Council of Nicaea bear witness to his miracles in helping captives.


In Cyprus, St. Theophilus, a praetor, who was apprehended by the Arabs, and as he could not be induced either by gifts or by threats to deny Christ, was put to the sword.


At Antioch, the holy bishop Cyril, who was distinguished for learning and holiness.


At Menat, in the territory of Auvergne, St. Meneleus, abbot.


In the monastery of Fontanelle in France, Abbot St. Wandrille, famous for his miracles. His body was afterwards translated to the monastery of Blandin, in Flanders.


At Lisbon in Portugal, St. Lawrence of Brindisi, priest and confessor, superior general of the Order of Friars Minor Capuchin of St. Francis. Illustrious for his preaching and his arduous labour for the glory of God, he was canonized by Pope Leo XIII.


At Scythopolis in Palestine, St. Joseph, a count.


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