RULE/MARTYROLOGY THREAD

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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.


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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.


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


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


At Ravenna, the birthday of the holy bishop Apollinaris, who was consecrated at Rome by the Apostle Peter, and sent to Ravenna, where he endured many different tribulations for the faith of Christ. He afterwards preached the Gospel in Emilia, where he converted many from the worship of idols. Finally, returning to Ravenna, he completed his confession of Christ by a glorious martyrdom under Vespasian Caesar.


At Le Mans in France, St. Liborius, bishop and confessor.


At Rome, St. Bridget, widow, who, after many pilgrimages to the holy places, fell asleep filled with the Spirit of God. Her feast is observed on the 8th of October.


Also, St. Rasyphus, martyr.


In the same city, the martyrdom of St. Primitiva, virgin and martyr.


Also the holy martyrs Apollonius and Eugene.


The same day, the birthday of the holy martyrs Trophimus and Theophilus, who received their crown of martyrdom by being beaten with stones, scorched with fire, and finally struck with the sword, in the time of Emperor Diocletian.


In Bulgaria, many holy martyrs, whom the impious Emperor Nicephorus, while devastating the churches of God, put to death in various ways: by the sword, by hanging, arrows, long imprisonment, and by starvation.


At Rome, the saintly virgins Romula, Redempta, and Herundo, mentioned by Pope St. Gregory in his writings.


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


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


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


The Vigil of St. James the Apostle.


At Tiro in Tuscany, on Lake Bolsena, St. Christina, virgin and martyr. Because she believed in Christ, and broke up her father's gold and silver idols to give them to the poor, she was cruelly scourged at his command, subjected to other most severe torments, and thrown with a heavy stone into the lake from which she was drawn out by an angel. Then under another judge, who succeeded her father, she bore courageously still more bitter tortures. Finally, after she had been shut up by the governor Julian in a burning furnace for five days without any injury, after being cured of the sting of serpents, she ended her martyrdom by having her tongue cut out, and being pierced with arrows.


At Rome, on the Tiburtine Way, St. Vincent, martyr.


At Amiterno in Abruzzi, the martyrdom of eighty-three holy soldiers.


At Merida in Spain, St. Victor, a soldier who, with his two brothers, Stercatius and Antinogenes, by divers torments fulfilled his martyrdom in the persecution of Diocletian.


Also, the holy martyrs Meneus and Capito.


In Lycia, the holy martyrs Niceta and Aquilina, who were converted to Christ by the preaching of the blessed martyr Christopher, and gained the palm of martyrdom by being beheaded.


At Sens, St. Ursicinus, bishop and confessor.


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


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


CHAPTER XLIV
Of those who are excommunicated, how they are to make satisfaction


Let him, who for graver offences is excommunicated from the Oratory and the table, prostrate himself at the door of the Oratory, saying nothing, at the hour when the Work of God is being performed: lying prone, with his face upon the ground, at the feet of all who go out from the Oratory. Let him continue to do this until the Abbot judge that he hath made satisfaction: and then, coming at the Abbot's bidding, let him cast himself at his feet and at the feet of all, that they may pray for him. After this, if the Abbot so order, let him be received back into the choir, in such a place as he shalt appoint: yet so, that he presume not to intone Psalm or lesson, or anything else, in the Oratory, unless the Abbot again command him. And at all the Hours, when the Work of God is ended, let him cast himself on the ground, in the place where he standeth, and so make satisfaction, until such time as the Abbot bid him cease therefrom. But let those, who for lighter faults are excommunicated only from the table, make satisfaction in the Oratory so long as the Abbot shall command, and continue so doing until he bless them and say it is enough.


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


St. James the Apostle, brother of the blessed evangelist John, who was beheaded by Herod Agrippa at about the feast of Easter. He was the first of the apostles to receive the crown of martyrdom. His sacred bones were on this day carried from Jerusalem to Spain, and placed in the remote province of Galicia, where they are devoutly honoured by the far-famed piety of the inhabitants, and the frequent concourse of Christians, who visit them through piety and in fulfillment of vows.


In Lycia, in the time of Decius, St. Christopher, martyr. Being scourged with iron rods, cast into the flames, from which he was saved by the power of Christ, and finally transfixed with arrows and beheaded, he completed his martyrdom.


At Barcelona in Spain, during the persecution of Diocletian and under the governor Dacian, the birthday of the holy martyr Cucuphas. After overcoming many torments, he was struck with the sword, and thus went triumphantly to heaven.


In Palestine, St. Paul, a martyr in the persecution of Maximian Galerius, under the governor Firmilian. He was condemned to death, but having obtained a short period for prayer, he besought God with all his heart, first for his own countrymen, then for the Jews and the Gentiles, that they might embrace the true faith, next for the multitude of spectators, and finally for the judge who had condemned him and the executioner who was to strike him; after which he received the crown of martyrdom by beheading.


At Forcono in Abruzzi, the holy martyrs Florentius and Felix, natives of Siponte.


At Cordova, St. Theodemir, monk and martyr.


In Palestine, St. Valentina, a virgin, who was led to an altar to offer sacrifice, but overturning it with her foot, she was cruelly tortured, and being cast into the fire with another virgin, her companion, she went to her Spouse.


At Treves, St. Magnericus, bishop and confessor.


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


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


CHAPTER XLV
Of those who make mistakes in the Oratory


If any one make a mistake in the recitation of Psalm, responsory, antiphon, or lesson, and do not humble himself by making satisfaction there before all, let him be subjected to severer punishment, as one who would not correct by humility what he did wrong through negligence. But children for such faults are to be whipt.*


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


The departure from this life of St. Anne, mother of the Immaculate Virgin Mary, the Mother of God.


At Philippi in Macedonia, the birthday of St. Erastus, who was appointed bishop of that place by the blessed apostle Paul, and was there crowned with martyrdom.


At Rome, on the Latin Way, the holy martyrs Symphronius, Olympius, Theodulus, and Exuperia, who (as we read in the Acts of Pope St. Stephen) were burned alive, and thus obtained the palm of martyrdom.


At Porto, St. Hyacinth, martyr, who was first thrown into the fire, and then cast into a stream without being injured. Afterwards, under Emperor Trajan, being struck with the sword by the exconsul Leontius, his martyrdom was fulfilled. His body was buried by the matron Julia on her own estate near Rome.


At Verona, St. Valens, bishop and confessor.


At Rome, St. Pastor, a priest in whose name a title exists in the church of St. Pudentiana, on the Viminal Hill.


In the monastery of St. Benedict, near Mantua, St. Simeon, monk and hermit, who was renowned for many miracles, and at an advanced age rested in the Lord.


At Lovere, in the diocese of Brescia, St. Bartholemea Capitanio, virgin, who founded the Sisters of Charity, dedicated to teaching the young. Pope Pius XII added her name to the catalogue of holy virgins.


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


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


CHAPTER XLVI
Of those who offend in any other matters


If any one, while at work in the kitchen or the cellar, in serving the brethren, in the bakehouse or the garden, or at any other occupation or in any place whatever, commit any fault, or break or lose anything, or transgress in any other way, and do not come immediately before the Abbot and community, and of himself confess and make satisfaction for his fault; if it is made known by another, he shall be subjected to more severe correction. If, however, the guilt of his offence be hidden in his own soul, let him manifest it to the Abbot only, or to his spiritual seniors, who know how to heal their own wounds, and will not disclose or publish those of others.


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


At Nicomedia, the martyrdom of St. Pantaleon, a physician. For the faith of Christ he was apprehended by Emperor Maximian, subjected to the torture and burned with torches, during which torments he was comforted by an apparition of our Lord. He ended his martyrdom by a stroke of the sword.


At Bisceglia in Apulia, the holy martyrs Maur, a bishop, Pantaleon, and Sergius, who suffered under Trajan.


At Nicomedia, St. Hermolaus, priest, by whose instructions blessed Pantaleon was converted to the faith. Also, the Saints Hermippus and Hermocrates, brothers. After many sufferings borne for the confession of Christ, they were condemned to death by the same Maximian.


At Cordova in Spain, during the Arab persecution, the holy martyrs George, a deacon, Aurelius and his wife Natalia, Felix and his wife Liliosa.


At Nola in Campania, the holy martyrs Felix, Julia, and Jucunda.


In the country of the Homerites in Arabia, the commemoration of the holy martyrs, who were delivered to the flames for the faith of Christ under the tyrant Dunaan.


At Ephesus, the birthday of the Seven Holy Sleepers, Maximian, Malchus, Martinian, Denis, John, Serapion, and Constantine.


At Rome, Pope St. Celestine I, who had condemned Nestorius, bishop of Constantinople, and put Pelagius to flight. By his command the holy universal Council of Ephesus was also held against the same Nestorius.


At Auxerre, the death of blessed Aetherius, bishop and confessor.


At Constantinople, blessed Anthusa, virgin. After being scourged and banished by Constantine Copronymus for the veneration of holy images, she rested in the Lord.


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


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The reading appointed from the Rule of St. Benedict for July 27:


CHAPTER XLVII
Of signifying the hour for the Work of God


Let the announcing of the hour for the Work of God, both by day and night, be the Abbot's care: either by signifying it himself, or by entrusting the duty to such a careful brother, that all things may be done at the appointed times. Let the Psalms and antiphons be intoned by those whose duty it is, each in his order, after the Abbot. Let no one presume to sing or to read except such as can so perform the office that the hearers may be edified. And let it be done with humility, gravity, and awe, and by those whom the Abbot hath appointed.


Martyrology-July 28th
Roman Martyrology-July 28th- on this date in various years-


At Milan, the birthday of the holy martyrs Nazarius and a boy named Celsus. While the persecution excited by Nero was raging, they were beheaded by Anolinus, after long sufferings and afflictions endured in prison.


At Rome, the martyrdom of St. Victor, pope and martyr.


Also at Rome, St. Innocent, pope and confessor, who passed to the Lord on the 12th of March.


In Thebais in Egypt, the commemoration of many holy martyrs who suffered in the persecution of Decius and Valerian. At this time, when Christians sought death by the sword for the name of Christ, the crafty enemy devised certain slow torments to put them to death, wishing to kill their souls much more than their bodies. One of these Christians, after suffering the tortured of the rack, of hot metal plates and of seething oil, was smeared with honey and exposed, in the broiling heat of the sun, with his hands tied behind him, to the sting of wasps and flies. Another, bound and placed among flowers, being approached by a shameless woman for the purpose of exciting his passions, bit through his tongue and spat it in her face.


At Ancyra in Galatia, the holy martyr Eustathius. After various torments he was plunged into a river, but being delivered by an angel, was finally called to his eternal reward by a dove coming from heaven.


At Miletus, in the time of Emperor Licinius, the holy martyr Acatius, who completed his martyrdom by having his head struck off, after having undergone different torments and having been thrown into a furncace, from which throught the assistance of God he came out uninjured.


In Brittany, St. Sampson, bishop and confessor.


At Lyons in France, St. Peregrinus, priest, whose happiness in heaven is testified by glorious miracles.


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


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The reading appointed from the Rule of St. Benedict for July 28:


CHAPTER XLVIII
Of the daily manual labour


Idleness is an enemy of the soul; and hence at certain seasons the brethren ought to occupy themselves in the labour of their hands, and at others in holy reading. We think, therefore, that the times for each may be disposed as follows: from Easter to the first of October, let them, in going from Prime in the morning, labour at whatever is required of them until about the fourth hour. From the fourth hour until near the sixth let them apply themselves to reading, And when they rise from table, after the sixth hour, let them rest on their beds in perfect silence; or if any one perchance desire to read, let him do so in such a way as not to disturb any one else. Let None be said in good time, at about the middle of the eighth hour: and then let them again work at whatever has to be done until Vespers. And if the needs of the place, or their poverty, oblige them to labour themselves at gathering in the crops, let them not be saddened thereat; because then are they truly monks, when they live by the labour of their hands, as did our fathers and the Apostles. Yet let all be done with moderation, on account of the faint-hearted.


Martyrology-July 29th
Roman Martyrology-July 29th- on this date in various years-


At Tarascon, in the province of Narbonne in France, St. Martha, virgin, the hostess of our Saviour and sister of blessed Mary Magdalene and St. Lazarus.


At Rome, on the Aurelian Way, St. Felix II, pope and martyr. Being expelled from his See by the Arian emperor Constantius for defending the Catholic faith, and being put to the sword privately at Cera in Tuscany, he died gloriously. His body was taken away from that place by clerics, and buried on the Aurelian Way. It was afterwards brought to the Church of the Saints Cosmas and Damian, where, under the Sovereign Pontiff Gregory XIII, it was found beneath the altar with the relics of the holy martyrs Mark, Marcellian, and Tranquillinus, and with the latter was put back in the same place on the 31st of July. In the same altar were also found the bodies of the holy martyrs Abundius, a priest, and Abundantius, a deacon, which were shortly after solemnly transferred to the church of the Society of Jesus, on the eve of their feast.


Also at Rome, on the Via Portuensis, the holy martyrs Simplicius, Faustinus, and Beatrice, in the time of Emperor Diocletian. The first two, after being subjected to many different torments, were condemned to suffer death; Beatrice, their sister, was smothered in prison for the confession of Christ.


At Rome, likewise the holy martyrs Lucilla and Flora, virgins, Eugenius, Antoninus, Theodore, and eighteen companions, who underwent martyrdom in the reign of Emperor Gallienus.


Again at Rome, St. Serapia, virgin. Under Emperor Hadrian, she was delivered to two lustful young men, and as she could not be corrupted, nor afterwards burned with lighted torches, she was beated with rods, and finally beheaded by order of the judge Derillus. She was buried by blessed Sabina in her own tomb, near the field of Vindician. But the commemoration of her martyrdom is celebrated more solemnly on the 3rd of September, when their common tomb was finished and adorned, and dedicated as a place of prayer.


At Gangra in Paphlagonia, St. Callinicus, martyr, who was scourged with iron rods, and given over to other torments. Being finally cast into a furnace, he gave up his soul to God.


In Norway, St. Olaf, king and martyr.


At Troyes in France, St. Lupus, bishop and confessor, who went with blessed Germanus to England to exterminate the Pelagian heresy, and by diligent prayer defended the city of Troyes from the wrath of Attila, who was devastating all of France. At length, having religiously discharged the functions of the priesthood for fifty-two years, he rested in peace.


At St. Brieuc in France, St. William, bishop and confessor.


Also, the death of blessed Prosper, bishop of Orleans.


At Todi in Umbria, St. Faustinus, confessor.


At Mamia, St. Serafina.


At Rome, blessed Pope Urban II who followed in the path of St. Gregory VII. He was resplendent for his zeal for learning and religion, and aroused the faithful, signed with the sign of the cross, to recover the holy places of Palestine from the power of the infidels. Pope Leo XIII ratified and confirmed the veneration shewn him from time immemorial.


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


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The reading appointed from the Rule of St. Benedict for July 29:


CHAPTER XLVIII
Of the daily manual labour (cont.)


From the first of October to the beginning of Lent let them apply to reading until the end of the second hour. Let Tierce be then said, and until the ninth hour let all labour at the work that is enjoined them. When the first signal for None is given, let every one break off from his work, and be ready as soon as the second signal is sounded. After their meal, let them occupy themselves in their reading, or in learning the Psalms. During Lent, let them apply themselves to reading from morning until the end of the third hour, and then, until the end of the tenth, labour at whatever is enjoined them. And in these days of Lent let each one receive a book from the library, and read it all through in order. These books are to be given out at the beginning of Lent. Above all, let one or two seniors be appointed to go round the Monastery, at the hours when the brethren are engaged in reading, and see that there be no slothful brother giving himself to idleness or to foolish talk, and not applying himself to his reading, so that he is thus not only useless to himself, but a distraction to others. If such a one be found (which God forbid) let him be corrected once and a second time; and if he do not amend, let him be subjected to the chastisement of the Rule, so that the rest may be afraid. And let not one brother associate with another at unseasonable hours.


Martyrology-July 30th
Roman Martyrology-July 30th- on this date in various years-


At Rome, in the reign of Decius, the holy Persian martyrs Abdon and Sennen, who were bound with chains, brought to Rome, scourged with leaded whips for the faith of Christ, and then put to the sword.


At Assisi in Umbria, St. Rufinus, martyr.


At Tuberbum Lucernarium in Africa, the holy virgins and martyrs Maxima, Donatilla, and Secunda. The first two, in the persecution of Valerian and Gallienus, were forced to drink vinegar and gall, then scourged most severely , stretched on the rack, burned on the gridiron, rubbed over with lime, and afterwards exposed to the beasts with the virgin Secunda, twelve years old. But being untouched by them, they were finally beheaded.


At Caesarea in Cappadocia, St. Julitta, martyr. As she sought through the courts the restitution of goods seized by a man of influence, the latter objected that, being a Christian, her cause could not be pleaded. The judge commanded her to offer sacrifice to the idols, that she might be heard. She refused with great constancy, and being thrown into the fire, yielded her soul unto God. Her body remained uninjured by the flames. St. Basil the Great has proclaimed her praise in an excellent eulogy.


At Auxerre, St. Ursus, bishop and confessor.


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


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The reading appointed from the Rule of St. Benedict for July 30:


CHAPTER XLVIII
Of the daily manual labour (cont.)


On Sunday, let all occupy themselves in reading, except those who have been appointed to the various offices. But if any one should be so negligent and slothful, as to be either unwilling or unable to study or to read, let some task be given him to do, that he be not idle. To brethren who are weak or delicate, let there be given such work or occupation as to prevent them either from being idle, or from being so oppressed by excessive labour as to be driven away. Their weakness must be taken into account by the Abbot.


Martyrology-July 31st
Roman Martyrology-July 31st- on this date in various years-


At Rome, the birthday of St. Ignatius, priest and confessor, founder of the Society of Jesus, renowned for sanctity and miracles, and most zealous for propagating the Catholic religion in all parts of the world. Pope Pius XI declared him to be the heavenly patron of all spiritual retreats.


At Milan, during the persecution of Antoninus, St. Calimerius, bishop and martyr, who was arrested, covered with wounds, and his throat transfixed with a sword. He completed his martyrdom by being cast into a well.


At Caesarea in Mauretania, the martyrdom of the blessed martyr Fabius. Because he refused to carry the banners of the governor of the province, he was thrown into prison for some days, and as he persisted twice in confessing Christ when brought before the judge, he was condemned to death.


At Synnada in Phrygia Pacatiana, the holy martyrs Democritus, Secundus, and Denis.


In Syria, three hundred and fifty monks, who became martyrs by being slain by the heretics for defending the Council of Chalcedon.


At Ravenna, the death of St. German, bishop of Auxerre, a man most renowned for his birth, faith, learning, and glorious miracles, who freed England completely from the heretical doctrines of the Pelagians.


At Tagaste in Africa, St. Firmus, bishop, illustrious by a glorious confession of the faith.


At Siena in Tuscany, the birthday of blessed John Columbini, founder of the Order of Gesuati, renowned for sanctity and miracles.


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


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The reading appointed from the Rule of St. Benedict for July 31:


CHAPTER XLIX
Of the Observance of Lent


Although the life of a monk ought at all times to have about it a Lenten character, yet since few have strength enough for this, we exhort all, at least during the days of Lent, to keep themselves in all purity of life, and to wash away, during that holy season, the negligences of other times. This we shall worthily do, if we refrain from all sin, and give ourselves to prayer with tears, to holy reading, compunction of heart and abstinence. In these days, then, let us add some thing to our wonted service; as private prayers, and abstinence from food and drink, so that every one of his own will may offer to God, with joy of the Holy Spirit, something beyond the measure appointed him: withholding from his body somewhat of his food, drink and sleep, refraining from talking and mirth, and awaiting Holy Easter with the joy of spiritual longing. Let each one, however, make known to his Abbot what he offereth, and let it be done with his blessing and permission: because what is done without leave of the spiritual father shall be imputed to presumption and vain-glory, and merit no reward. Everything, therefore, is to be done with the approval of the Abbot.


Martyrology-August 1st
Roman Martyrology-August 1st- on this date in various years-


At Rome, on the Esquiline, the Dedication of the Church of St. Peter in Chains.


At Antioch, the martyrdom of the seven brothers, the holy Machabees, martyrs, and their mother, who suffered under King Antiochus Epiphanes. Their relics were transferred to Rome, and placed in the church or St. Peter in Chains.


At Vercelli, St. Eusebius, bishop and martyr, who, for the confession of the Catholic faith was banished to Scythopolis in Palestine, and thence to Cappadocia, by Emperor Constantine. Afterwards, returning to his church, he suffered martyrdom in the persecution of the Arians. His memory is more especially honoured on the 15th of December, when he was consecrated bishop, and his feast is kept on the 16th of December.


At Nocera dei Pagani in Campani, the birthday also of St. Alphonsus Maria Liguori, founder of the Congregation of our most Holy Redeemer, bishop of Santa Agata dei Goti, and confessor. Noted for his zeal for souls, his writings, and his example, Pope Gregory XVI added him to the canon of saints, and Pius IX declared him to be a doctor of the Universal Church. Pius XII established him as heavenly patron of all moral theologians and of those who hear Confession. His feast, however, is observed on the day following.


At Rome, on the Latin Way, the holy martyrs Bonus, a priest, Faustus and Maur, with nine others, mentioned in the Acts of Pope St. Stephen.


Also at Rome, the holy virgins Faith, Hope, and Charity, children of St. Sophia, who won the crown of martyrdom under Emperor Hadrian.


At Philadelphia in Arabia, the holy martyrs Cyril, Aquila, Peter, Domitian, Rufus, and Menander, crowned on the same day.


At Perge in Pamphylia, the holy martyrs Leontius, Attius, Alexander, and six peasants, who were beheaded in the persecution of Diocletian, under the governor Flavian.


At Gerona in Spain, the birthday of the holy martyr Felix. After enduring various torments, by order of Dacian he was cut with knives until he gave his undaunted soul to Christ.


In the diocese of Paris, St. Justin, martyr.


At Vienne in France, St. Verus, bishop.


At Winchester in England, St. Ethelwold, bishop.


In the country of Lisieux, St. Nemesius, confessor.


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


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[OmniaInstaurareInChristo]

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


CHAPTER L
Of the Brethren who are working at a distance from the Oratory, or are on a journey


Let the brethren who are at work at a great distance, or on a journey, and cannot come to the Oratory at the proper time (the Abbot judging such to be the case) perform the Work of God there where they are labouring, in godly fear, and on bended knees. In like manner, let not those who are sent on a journey allow the appointed Hours to pass by; but, as far as they can, observe them by themselves, and not neglect to fulfil their obligation of divine service.


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


St. Alphonsus Maria Liguori, founder of the Congregation of our most Holy Redeemer, bishop of Santa Agata dei Goti, confessor and doctor of the Church, who fell asleep in the Lord on the previous day.


At Rome, in the cemetery of Callistus, the birthday of St. Stephen I, pope and martyr. In the persecution of Valerian, the soldiers suddenly entered while he was saying Mass, but remaining before the altar, fearless and unmoved, he concluded the sacred mysteries, and was beheaded on his throne.


At Nicaea in Bithynia, the martyrdom of St. Theodota with her three sons. The eldest named Evodius, confessing Christ with confidence, was first beaten with rods by order of Nicetius, exconsul of Bithynia, and then the mother with all her sons, was consumed by fire.


In Africa, St. Rutilius, marytr. He had frequently secured safety from the perils of persecution by flight, and sometimes even by means of money, but at last, being unexpectedly apprehended, he was led to the governor and subjected to many tortures. Afterwards he was cast into the fire, and thus merited the glorious crown of martyrdom.


At Padua, St. Maximus, bishop of that city, who ended his blessed life in peace, with a reputation for miracles.


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


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The reading appointed from the Rule of St. Benedict for August 2:


CHAPTER LI
Of the Brethren who go not very far off


Let not the brother who is sent out on any business, and hopeth to return that same day to the Monastery, presume to eat while abroad, even although pressed by any one to do so, unless perchance he have been bidden by his Abbot. If he do otherwise, let him be excommunicated,


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


At Jerusalem, the finding of the body of blessed Stephen, protomartyr, and of the Saints Gamaliel, Nicodemus, and Abibo, through a divine revelation made to the priest Lucian, in the time of Emperor Honorius.


At Philippi in Macedonia, St. Lydia, a dealer in purple, who was the first to believe in the Gospel when the apostle St. Paul preached in that city, as is related by St. Luke in the Acts of the Apostles


At Naples in Campania, St. Aspren, bishop, who was cured of a sickness by the apostle St. Peter, and after being baptized, was made bishop of that city.


At Constantinople, the birthday of St. Hermellus, martyr.


Among the Indians, bordering on Persia, the martyrdom of holy monks and other Christians who were put to death after suffering diverse torments, during the persecution of the Church of God by King Abenner.


At Autun, the death of St. Euphronius, bishop and confessor.


At Anagni, St. Peter, who rested in the Lord after gaining great renown for monastical observance and for pastoral vigilance.


At Beroea in Syria, the holy women Marana and Cyra.


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


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