RULE/MARTYROLOGY THREAD

[OmniaInstaurareInChristo]

The reading appointed from the Rule of St. Benedict for November 8:


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


At Rome in the Lateran, the Dedication of the Basilica of the Saviour, which is the Mother and Head of all churches in the city and the world.


At Amasea in Pontus, the birthday of St. Theodore, a soldier, in the time of Emperor Maximian. For the confession of Christ he was severely scourged and sent to prison, where he was comforted by an apparition of our Lord, who exhorted him to act with courage and constancy. He was finally stretched on the rack, lacerated with iron hooks until his bowels were laid bare, then cast into the flames to be burned alive. His glorious deeds have been celebrated in a eulogy by Gregory of Nyssa.


At Tyana in Cappadocia, the martyrdom of St. Orestes under Emperor Diocletian.


At Thessalonica, under Emperor Maximian, St. Alexander, martyr.


At Bourges in Aquitaine, St. Ursinus, confessor, who was ordained at Rome by the successors of the apostles and appointed first bishop of that city.


At Naples in Campania, St. Agrippinus, bishop, renowned for miracles.


At Constantinople, the holy virgins Eustolia, a Roman maiden, and Sopatra, the daughter of Emperor Maurice


At Berytus in Syria, the Commemoration of the Image of our Saviour, which, being fastnened to a cross by the Jews, poured out blood so plentifully that the Eastern and Western Churches received abundantly of it.


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 November 9:


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


At Naples in Campania, the birthday of St. Andrew Avellini, Cleric Regular and confessor, celebrated for his sanctity, his zeal in procuring the salvation of souls, and renowned for his miracles. He was inscribed on the catalogue of the Saints by Pope Clement XI.


On the same day, the birthday of the holy martyrs Trypho and Respicius, and the virgin Nympha.


At Rome, Pope St. Leo I, confessor and doctor of the Church, surnamed the Great because of his extraordinary merits. During his pontificate the holy Council of Chalcedon was held which condemned Eutyches thruogh his legates, and whose decrees were afterwards given the seal of his authority. After meriting the gratitude of the Church of God and the whole flock of Christ by the many decrees which he issued, and by the many excellent works which he wrote, this good and zealous shepherd rested in peace. His feast is celebrated on the 11th of April.


At Iconium in Lycaonia, the holy women Tryphenna and Tryphosa, who profited by the preaching of blessed Paul and the example of Thecla to make great progress in Christian perfection.


At Antioch, Saints Demetrius, bishop, Anian, deacon, Eustosius, and twenty other martyrs.


In the diocese of Agde in France, the holy martyrs Tiberius, Modestus, and Florence, who were subjected to diverse torments and fulfilled their martyrdom in the time of Diocletian.


At Ravenna, St. Probus, a bishop renowned for miracles.


At Orleans in France, St. Monitor, bishop and confessor.


In England, St. Justus, bishop, who was sent by Pope Gregory with Augustine, Mellitus, and others to preach the Gospel in that country. There he went to repose in the Lord, celebrated for his sanctity.


In the town of Melun in France, St. Leo, confessor.


In the island of Paros, St. Theoctistis, 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 November 10:

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

At Tours in France, the birthday of blessed Martin, bishop and confessor, whose life was so renowned for miracles that he received the power to raise three persons from the dead.

At Cotyaeum in Phrygia, during the persecution of Diocletian, the celebrated martyrdom of St. Mennas, an Egyptian soldier, who cast off the military belt and obtained the grace of serving the King of heaven secretly in the desert. Afterwards, coming out publicly and freely declaring himself a Christian, he was first subjected to severe torments; and finally kneeling in prayer, giving thanks to our Lord Jesus Christ, he was slain with the sword. After his death he became renowned for many miracles.

At Ravenna, the holy martyrs Valentine, Felician, and Victorinus, who were crowned during the persecution of Diocletian.

In Mesopotamia, St. Athenodorus, martyr, who was subjected to fire and other torments under the same Diocletian and the governor Eleusius. He was at length sentenced to be beheaded, but when the executioner fell to the ground and no other person would dare to strike him with the sword, he passed to his repose in the Lord while praying.

At Lyons in France, St. Veranus, bishop, whose life was illustrious for his faith and his other virtues.

At Constantinople, St. Theodore, abbot of Studium, who fought valiantly for the Catholic faith against the Iconoclasts, and became famed throughout the universal Church.

In the monastery of Grottaferrata, in the Tuscan plain, the holy abbot Bartholomew, a companion of blessed Nilus, whose life he wrote.

In the province of Abruzzi, blessed Mennas, a solitary whose virtues and miracles are mentioned by Pope St. Gregory.

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 November 11:

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

The Feast of St. Martin I, pope and martyr, whose birthday is mentioned on the 16th day of September.

At Witebsk in Poland, the martyrdom of St. Josaphat, of the Order of St. Basil, a Polish archbishop and martyr, who was cruelly slain by schismatics through hatred of Catholic unity and truth. He was canonized by Pope Pius IX, and his feast is observed on the 16th of November.

At Alcala in Spain, the birthday of St. Didacus, confessor, a member of the Order of Friars Minor well known for his humility. Pope Sixtus V included him in the catalogue of the saints and his feast is celebrated on the day following.

In Asia, the martyrdom of the holy bishops Aurelius and Publius.

At Eschen in Belgium, St. Livinus, bishop and martyr. After converting many to the faith he was slain by heathens. His body, however, was afterwards translated to Ghent.

At Gnesen in Poland, the holy hermits and martyrs Benedict, John, Matthew, Isaac, and Christian. They were savagely attacked by robbers and slain by the sword while there were at prayer.

In the neighbourhood of Sens, St. Paternus, monk and martyr. He had met some robbers in a nearby forest, and for attempting to persuade them to amend their lives, they slew him.

At Avignon, St. Rufus, the first bishop of that city.

At Cologne, the death of St. Cunibert, bishop.

At Tarazona in Aragon, blessed Emilian, a priest favoured with many miracles. His admirable life was recorded by St. Braulio, bishop of Saragossa.

At Constantinople, St. Nilus, abbot, who resigned as prefect of the city to become a monk, and during the reign of Theodosius the Younger became distinguished for his learning and sanctity.

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 November 12:

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

St. Didacus, confessor of the Order of Friars Minor, whose birthday occurred on the preceding day.

At Ravenna, the birthday of the holy martyrs Valentine, Salutor, and Victor, who suffered under Emperor Diocletian.

At Aix, in the province of Narbonne, the renowned martyr, blessed Mitrius.

At Caesarea in Palestine, the martyrdom of the Saints Antoninus, Zebina, Germanus, and the virgin Ennatha. Under Galerius Maximian, Ennatha was scourged and burned alive, while the others, for boldly reproaching the governor Firmilian for his idolatry in sacrificing to the gods, were beheaded.

In Africa, the holy martyrs Arcadius, Paschasius, Probus, and Eutychian, Spaniards who absolutely refused to yield to the Arian perfidy, during the persecution of the Vandals. Accordingly, they were condemned by the Arian king Genseric, driven into exile, and finally, after being subjected to fearful tortures, were put to death in divers manners. At that time there was also seen the constancy of the small boy Paulillus, brother of the Saints Paschasius and Eutychian. Because he could not be turned from the Catholic faith, he was long beaten with rods and sentenced to the lowest servitude.

At Rome, Pope St. Nicholas, distinguished for the apostolic spirit.

At Tours in France, St. Brice, bishop, a disciple of the blessed Bishop Martin.

At Toledo in Spain, St. Eugene, bishop.

In Auvergne in France, St. Quinctian, bishop.

At Cremona, in the duchy of Milan, St. Homobonus, confessor, renowned for miracles, whom Innocent III placed among 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 November 13:

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

St. Josaphat, of the Order of St. Basil, archbishop and martyr of Poland, whose birthday was observed on the 12th of November.

At Gangra in Paphlagonia, St. Hypatius, bishop, who on his way home from the great Council of Nicaea, was attacked with stones by the Novatian heretics, and died a martyr.

At Heraclea in Thrace, the birthday of the holy martyrs Clementinus, Theodotus and Philomenus.

At Alexandria, St. Serapion, martyr, whom the persecutors under Emperor Decius subjected to torments so cruel that all his limbs were disjointed. He became a martyr of Christ by being hurled from the upper part of the house.

At Troyes in France, under Emperor Aurelian, St. Venerandus, martyr.

Also in France, the holy virgin Veneranda, who received the crown of martyrdom under Emperor Antoninus and the governor Asclepiades.

At Emesa in Phoenicia, the martyrdom of many holy women, who were barbarously tortured and massacred for the faith of Christ under Mady, a savage Arabian chief.

At Bologna, St. Jucundus, bishop and confessor.

At Eu in France, St. Laurence, bishop of Dublin.

At Algiers in Africa, blessed Serapion, of the Order of Our Blessed Lady of Ransom. For the redemption of the faithful in captivity and the preaching of the Christian faith, he was the first of his Order to merit the palm of martyrdom, being crucified and torn limb from limb.

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 November 14:

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

At Cologne, St. Albert, surnamed the Great, bishop and confessor of the Order of Preachers, renowned for his holiness and learning. Pope Pius XI appointed him as Doctor of the universal Church, and Piius XII appointed him as heavenly patron of those studying the natural sciences.

Also, the birthday of St. Eugene, bishop of Toledo and martyr, disciple of blessed Denis the Areopagite. His martyrdom was completed near Paris, and he received from our Lord a crown for his blessed sufferings. His body was afterwards translated to Toledo in Spain.

At Nola in Campania, blessed Felix, bishop and martyr, who was renowned for miracles from his fifteenth year. He completed the combats of his martyrdom with thirty others, under the governor Marcian.

At Edessa in Mesopotamia, the martyrdom of St. Abibus, deacon, who was torn with iron hooks and cast into the fire in the time of Emperor Licinius and the governor Lysanias.

In the same place, the holy martyrs Gurias and Samonas, under Emperor Diocletian and the governor Antoninus.

In Africa, the holy martyrs Secundus, Fidentian, and Varicus.

At Archingeay, in the neighbourhood of Saintes, the birthday of St. Malo, bishop of Aleth, in France. He was born in England and from his earliest years was famed for his miracles.

At Verona, St. Luperius, bishop and confessor.

At Klosterneuburg, near Vienna in Austria, St. Leopold, margrave of that province of Austria. He was placed on the canon of the saints by Pope Innocent VIII.

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 November 15:

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

St. Gertrude, virgin, whose birthday is on the 17th of November.

At Edinburgh in Scotland, the birthday of St. Margaret, queen of the Scots and widow, renowned for her love of the poor and her voluntary poverty. Her feast is celebrated on the 10th of June.

In Africa, the holy martyrs Rufinus, Mark, Valerius, and their fellows.

The same day, the holy martyrs Elpidius, Marcellus, Eustochius, and their companions. Elpidius, who was a senator, perseveringly confessed the Christian faith before Julian the Apostate, and, with his companions, was tied to wild horses and dragged by them, thus fulfilling a glorious martyrdom.

At Lyons in France, the birthday of St. Eucherius, bishop and confessor, a man of extraordinary faith and learning. He renounced the senatorial dignity to embrace the religious life, and for a long time voluntarily shut himself up in a cave, where he served Christ in prayer and fasting. Afterwards, through the revelation of an angel, he was solemnly installed in the episcopal chair of the city of Lyons.

At Padua, St. Fidentius, bishop.

At Canterbury in England, St. Edmund, archbishop and confessor, who was sent into exile for having maintained the rights of his church. He died a most holy death at Provins, a town near Sens, and was canonized by Innocent IV.

The same day, the death of St. Othmar, abbot.

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 November 16:


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


At Neocaesarea in Pontus, the birthday of St. Gregory, bishop and confessor, illustrious for his learning and sanctity. The signs and miracles which he wrought to the great glory of the Church gained for him the surname Wonderworker.


At Hedelfs in Saxony, the birthday of St. Gertrude, virgin of the Order of St. Benedict, who was famous for her revelations. Her feast is observed on the preceding day.


In Palestine, in the first year of Diocletian's persecution, the holy martyrs Alpheus and Zachaeus, who underwent beheading after many tortures.


At Cordova in Spain, during the same persecution, the holy martyrs Acisclus and his sister Victoria, who were most cruelly tortured by order of the governor Dion, and thus merited to be crowned by our Lord for their glorious sufferings.


At Alexandria, St. Denis, bishop, a man of very great learning. In the time of Emperors Valerian and Gallienus, renowned for often having confessed the faith, and illustrious for the various sufferings and torments he had endured, full of days he rested in peace a confessor.


At Orleans in France, St. Anian, bishop, the value of whose death in the sight of the Lord is attested by frequent miracles.


In England, St. Hugh, bishop, who was called to rule the church of Lincoln. He ended his holy life in peace, renowned for many miracles.


At Tours in France, St. Gregory, bishop.


At Florence, St. Eugene, confessor, the deacon of blessed Zenobius, 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 November 17:


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


At Rome, the dedication of the basilica of the holy apostles Peter and Paul. The former, having been enlarged, was on this day solemnly consecrated by Urban VIII; while the latter, more beautifully rebuilt after its total destruction by fire, was solemnly dedicated on the 10th of December by Pius IX, though the feast in commemoration of that event was transferred to this day.


At Antioch, the birthday of St. Romanus, martyr, in the time of Emperor Galerius. When the prefect Asclepiades attacked the Church and attempted to destroy it, Romanus exhorted the Christians to resist him. After being subjected to severe torments and the cutting out of his tongue (without which, however, he spake the praises of God), he was strangled in prison and crowned with glorious martyrdom. Before him suffered a young boy named Barula, who being asked by him whether it was better to worship one God or several gods, and having answered that we must believe in the one God whom the Christians adore, was scourged and beheaded.


Also at Antioch, the holy martyr Hesychius, a soldier. Hearing the order that anyone refusing to sacrifice to idols should lay aside his military belt, he immediately took off his. For this reason he was cast into the river
with a large stone tied to his right hand.


On the same day, St. Oriculus and his companions, who suffered for the Catholic faith in the Vandal persecution.


At Mainz, St. Maximus, bishop, who suffered greatly at the hands of the Arians, and died a confessor in the time of Constantius.


At Tours in France, the passing of blessed Odo, abbot of Cluny.


At Antioch, St. Thomas, a monk honoured with an annual solemnity by the people of Antioch, for bringing the end of a plague by his prayers.


At Lucca in Tuscany, the translation of St. Frigidian, bishop and 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 November 18:


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


At Marburg in Germany, the death of St. Elizabeth, widow, daugher of King Andrew of Hungary, and member of the Third Order of St. Francis. After a life spent in the performance of works of piety, she went to heaven, having a reputation for miracles.


St. Pontian, pope and martyr, whose birthday occurs on the 30th of October.


At Samaria  in Palestine, the holy prophet Abdias.


At Rome, on the Appian Way, the birthday of St. Maximus, priest and martyr, who suffered in the persecution of Valerian and was buried near St. Sixtus.


At Ecijo in Spain, blessed Bishop Crispin, who obtained the glory of martyrdom by beheading.


St. Faustus, deacon of Alexandria, who had been banished with St. Denis in the persecution of Valerian; later, in the persecution of Diocletian, being advanced in age, his martyrdom was accomplished by the sword.


At Caesarea in Cappadocia, St. Barlaam, martyr, who, though unpolished and ignorant, was armed with the wisdom of Christ to overcome the tyrant, and by the constancy of his faith, subdue fire itself. On his birthday, St. Basil the Great delivered a celebrated sermon.


At Vienne in France, the holy martyrs Severinus, Exuperius and Felician. Their bodies, after the lapse of many years, were found through their own revelation, and being taken up with due honours by the bishop, clergy, and people of that city, were buried with becoming solemnity.


In Isauria the martyrdom of St. Azas and his soldier companions, to the number of one hundred and fifty, under Emperor Diocletian and the tribune Aquilinus.


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 November 19:


CHAPTER XLI
At What Times the Brethren Should Take Their Refection


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


St. Felix of Valois, priest and confessor, who founded the Order of the Most Holy Trinity for the Redemption of Captives, and who fell asleep in the Lord on the 4th of November.


In Persia, the martyrdom of St. Nersas, bishop, and his companions.


At Messina in Sicily, the holy martyrs Ampelus and Caius.


At Turin, the holy martyrs Octavius, Solutor, and Adventor, soldiers of the Theban Legion, who fought valiantly for the faith under Emperor Maximian and who were crowned with martyrdom.


At Caesarea in Palestine, in the time of Emperor Galerius Maximian, the holy martyr Agapius, who was condemned to be devoured by the beasts; but being unhurt by them, he was cast into the sea with stones tied to his feet.


At Silistria in Rumania, St. Dasius, bishop, who, for refusing to consent to the unholy rites of the Saturnalia, was put to death under the governor Bassus.


At Nicaea in Bithynia, the holy martyrs Eustace, Thespesius, and Anatolius, in the persecution of Maximinus.


At Heraclea in Thrace, the holy martyrs Bassus, Denis, Agapitus, and forty others.


In England, St. Edmund, king and martyr.


At Constantinople, St. Gregory of Decapolis, who suffered many things for the veneration of sacred images.


At Milan, St. Benignus, bishop, who, amid great troubles caused by the barbarians, governed the Church entrusted to him with greatest constancy and piety.


At Chalons in France, St. Sylvester, bishop, who went to God in the forty-second year of his priesthood, full of days and virtues.


At Verona, St. Simplicius, bishop and confessor.


At Hildesheim in Saxony, St. Bernard, bishop and confessor, who was numbered among the saints by Pope Celestine III.


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 November 20:


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


In the temple at Jerusalem, the Presentation of the Blessed Virgin Mary, Mother of God.


Also, the birthday of blessed Rufus, mentioned by the apostle St. Paul in his Epistle to the Romans.


At Rome, the martyrdom of the Saints Celsus and Clement.


At Rheims, St. Albert, bishop of Liege and martyr, who was put to death for defending the liberty of the Church.


At Ostia, the holy martyrs Demetrius and Honorius.


In Spain, the holy martyrs Honorius, Eutychius, and Stephen.


In Pamphylia, St. Heliodorus, martyr, in the persecution of Aurelian under the governor Aetius. After his death his executioners were converted to the faith and were cast into the sea.


At Rome, Pope St. Gelasius, distinguished for learning and sanctity.


At Verona, St. Maur, bishop and confessor.


In the monastery of Bobbio, the death of St. Columban, abbot who founded many monasteries and governed a large number of monks. He died at an advanced age, celebrated for many 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 November 21:


CHAPTER XLIII
Of those who come late to the Work of God, or to table


At the hour of Divine Office, as soon as the signal is heard, let every one, leaving whatever he had in hand, hasten to the Oratory with all speed, and yet with seriousness, so that no occasion he given for levity.

Let nothing, then, be preferred to the Work of God. And should any one come to the Night-Office after the Gloria of the ninety-fourth Psalm (which for this reason we wish to be said very slowly and protractedly), let him not stand in his order in the choir, but last of all, or in the place set apart by the Abbot for the negligent, so that he may be seen by him and by all, until, the work of God being ended, he have made satisfaction by public penance. The reason why we have judged it fitting for them to stand in the last place, or apart, is that, being seen of all, they may amend for very shame. For, if they were to remain outside the Oratory, some one perchance would return to his place and go to sleep, or at all events would sit down outside, and give himself to idle talk, and thus an occasion would be given to the evil one. Let him therefore enter, that he may not lose the whole, and may amend for the future. At the day Hours, let him who cometh to the Work of God after the Verse,* and the Gloria of the first Psalm which followeth it, stand in the last place, as ordered above, and not presume to join with the choir in the Divine Office, until he hath made satisfaction: unless perchance the Abbot shall permit him so to do, on condition, however, that he afterwards do penance.


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


St. Cecilia, virgin and martyr, who on the 16th of September, purpled with her own blood, departed to her heavenly Spouse.


At Colossae in Phrygia, during the reign of Nero, Saints Philemon and Apphias, disciples of St. Paul. When the heathen rushed into the church on the feast of Diana, they were arrested and the rest of the Christians fled. By command of the governor Artocles they were scourged, enclosed up to their waists in a pit, then overwhelmed with stones.


At Rome, St. Maur, martyr. He came from Africa to visit the tombs of the apostles, and suffered martyrdom there under Celerinus, prefect of the city in the reign of Emperor Numerian.


At Antioch in Pisidia, the martyrdom of the Saints Mark and Stephen, under Emperor Diocletian.


At Autun, St. Pragmatius, bishop and 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 November 22:


CHAPTER XLIII
Of those who come late to the Work of God, or to table (cont.)


If any one, through his own negligence and fault, come not to table before the Verse, so that all may say this and the prayer together, and together sit down to table, let him be once or twice corrected. If after this he do not amend, let him not be admitted to share in the common table, but be separated from the companionship of all, and eat alone, his portion of wine being taken from him, until he hath made satisfaction and amends. Let him be punished in like manner, who is not present also at the Verse which is said after meals. And let no one presume to take food or drink before or after the appointed hour: but should a brother be offered anything by the Superior, and refuse to take it, if he afterwards desire either what he before refused, or anything else, he shall receive nothing whatever, until he hath made proper satisfaction.


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


The birthday of Pope St. Clement, who held the sovereign pontificate the third after the blessed apostle Peter. In the persecution of Trajan, he was banished to Chersonesus, where, being thrown into the sea with an anchor tied to his neck, he was crowned with martyrdom. During the pontificate of Pope Adrian II, his body was translated to Rome by the brothers Saints Cyril and Methodius, and buried with honour in the church that had already been built and named for him.


At Rome, St. Felicitas, mother of seven martyred sons. After them she was beheaded for Christ by order of Emperor Marcus Antoninus.


At Cyzicum, in the Hellespont, St. Sisinius, martyr, who after many torments was put to the sword in the persecution of Diocletian.


At Merida in Spain, St. Lucretia, virgin and martyr, whose martyrdom was fulfilled in the same persecution, under the governor Dacian.


At Iconium in Lycaonia, the holy bishop Amphilochius, who was the companion of St. Basil and St. Gregory Nazianzen in the desert, and their colleague in the episcopate. After enduring many trials for the Catholic faith, he rested in peace, renowned for holiness and learning.


At Girgenti, the death of St. Gregory, bishop.


In the town of Hasbein in Belgium, St. Trudo, priest and confessor. Both the monastery which he had erected on his land, and the town which soon afterwards arose, were later named for him.


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