RULE/MARTYROLOGY THREAD

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

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OmniaInstaurareInChristo


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


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


At Antioch, the holy martyrs Basileus, bishop, Auxilius, and Saturninus.


At Sebaste in Armenia, in the reign of Emperor Diocletian and under the governor Maximus, the holy martyrs Hirenarchus, the priest Acacius, and seven women. Struck with the constancy of these women, Hirenarchus was converted to Christ, and with Acacius died under the axe.


In Galicia, on the River Cea, the Saints Facundus and Primitivus, who suffered under the governor Atticus.


In Persia, St. James Intercisus, a distinguished martyr. In the time of Theodosius the Younger he denied Christ in order to please King Isdegerd, but his mother and his wife for this reason withdrew from his company. Coming to himself, he returned to the king to declare his faith in our Lord, whereupon the angry monarch condemned him to be cut in pieces and beheaded. Countless other martyrs suffered at this time in the same country.


At Aquileia, St. Valerian, bishop.


At Riez in France, St. Maximus, bishop and confessor, who, from his tender years, was endowed with every grace and virtue. Being first superior of the monastery of Lerins, and afterwards bishop of the Church of Riez, he was celebrated for the working of miracles and prodigies.


At Salzburg in Austria, St. Virgil, bishop and apostle of Carinthia, who was placed among the number of saints by Pope Gregory IX.


In India, near the Persian boundary, the Saints Barlaam and Josaphat, whose wonderful deeds were written by St. John Damascene.


At Paris, the death of St. Severin, monk and solitary.


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 27:


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


At Corinth, the birthday of St. Sosthenes, disciple of the blessed apostle Paul, who is mentioned in his Epistle to the Corinthians. He was chief of the synagogue when converted to Christ, and as a glorious beginning, consecrated the first fruits of his faith by being scourged before the proconsul Gallio.


At Rome, St. Rufus, who was martyred with all his family by Diocletian.


In Africa, under the Arian king Genseric, in the persecution of the Vandals, the holy martyrs Papinian and Mansuetus, bishops, who, for the Catholic faith, were burned in every part of their bodies with hot plates of iron, which ended their glorious trial. At this time also, other holy bishops, Valerian, Urban, Crescens, Eustachius, Cresconius, Crescentian, Felix, Hortulanus, and Florentian ended the course of their lives in exile.


At Constantinople, in the time of Constantine Copronymus, the holy martyrs Stephen the Younger, Basil, Peter, Andrew, and their companions, numbering three hundred and thirty-nine monks, who were subjected to diverse torments for the veneration of holy images, and confirmed the Catholic truth with the shedding of their blood.


At Naples in Campania, the death of St. James della Marca, priest and confessor of the Order of Friars Minor, celebrated for the austerity of his life, his apostolic preaching, and his many diplomatic missions undertaken for the success of the affairs of Christianity. His name was added to the calendar of the saints by the Sovereign Pontiff, Benedict XIII.


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

OmniaInstaurareInChristo


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


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


The Vigil of St. Andrew, apostle.


At Rome, on the Salarian Way, the birthday of the holy martyr, Saturninus, an aged man, and the deacon Sisinius, in the time of Emperor Maximian. After a long imprisonment, by order of the prefect of the city they were placed on the rack, stretched with ropes, scourged with rods and whips garnished with metal, then exposed to the flames, taken down from the rack and beheaded.


At Toulouse, in the time of Decius, the holy bishop Saturninus, who was taken to the capitol of that city by the heathen and thrown down the steps from the highest part of the building. The fall having crushed his head, dashed out his brain and mangled his whole body, he rendered his worthy soul to our Lord.


Also, the martyrdom of the Saints Paramon and his companions, to the number of three hundred and seventy-five under Emperor Decius and the governor Aquilinus.


At Ancyra in Galatia, St. Philomenus, martyr. During the persecution of Emperor Aurelian, under the governor Felix, he was first exposed to the flames, then having his hands, feet, and head pierced with nails, he fulfilled his martyrdom.


At Veroli, the holy martyrs Blaise and Demetrius.


At Todi in Umbria, St. Illuminata, 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 29:


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


At Patras in Achaia, the birthday of the apostle St. Andrew, who preached the gospel of Christ in Thrace and Sythia. He was apprehended by the proconsul Aegeas, imprisoned, and severely scourged, and finally, being hung on a cross, he lived two days on it, teaching the people. Having besought our Lord not to permit him to be taken down from the cross, he was surrounded with a great brightness from heaven, and when the light disappeared he breathed his last.


At Rome, the martyrdom of the Saints Castulus and Euprepis.


At Constantinople, St. Maura, virgin and martyr.


Also, St. Justina, virgin and martyr.


At Rome, St. Constantius, confessor, who bravely opposed the Pelagians, and by enduring many injuries from them, gained a place among the holy confessors.


At Saintes in France, St. Trojan, bishop and confessor, a man of great sanctity, who shews by many miracles that he lives in heaven, though his body is buried on earth.


In Palestine, blessed Zosimus, confessor, who was distinguished for his sanctity and miracles in the time of Emperor Justin.


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 30:


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-December 1st
Roman Martyrology-December1st-on this date in various years-


The prophet Nahum, who was buried in Bagabar.


At Rome, the holy martyrs Diodorus, a priest, and Marian, a deacon, with many others, while they were observing the birthdays of the martyrs in the catacombs. They were made partakers in the glory of martyrdom when the persecutors, by order of Emperor Numerian, walled up the door of the oratory and piled up a great mass of stones against it.


Also in Rome, the martyrdom of the Saints Lucius, Rogatus, Cassian, and Candida.


At Narni, St. Proculus, bishop and martyr, who, after performing many good works, was beheaded by order of Totila, king of the Goths.


At Casale, St. Evasius, bishop and martyr.


The same day, St. Ansanus, martyr, who confessed Christ at Rome, and was cast into prison in the time of Emperor Diocletian. Afterwards he was taken to Siena in Tuscany, where he ended the course of his martyrdom by beheading.


At Amelia in Umbria, St. Olympias, ex-consul, who was converted to the faith by blessed Firmina, was tortured on the rack, and under Diocletian achieved martyrdom.


At Arbela in Persia, St. Ananias, martyr.


At Milan, St. Castritian, bishop, who was eminent for virtues and the practice of pious and religious deeds during the greatest troubles of the Church.


At Brescia, St. Ursicinus, bishop.


At Noyon in Belgium, St. Eligius, bishop, whose life is rendered illustrious by a considerable number of miracles.


At Verdun in France, St. Agericus, bishop.


The same day, St. Natalia, wife of the blessed martyr Adrian, in the time of Emperor Diocletian. She long served the holy martyrs imprisoned at Nicomedia, and when their trials were over, went to Constantinople where she peacefully went to her rest in the Lord.


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


For 2018 The first Sunday of the Advent of our Lord Jesus Christ.

At Rome, the martyrdom of the saintly virgin Bibiana, under the sacrilegious Emperor Julian. For the sake of our Lord she was scourged with leaded whips until she expired.


At Imola, St. Peter Chrysologus, bishop of Ravenna, confessor and doctor of the Church, celebrated for his learning and sanctity. His feast is celebrated on the 4th of this month.


In Sancian, an island of China, the birthday of St. Francis Xavier, priest of the Society of Jesus, confessor and Apostle of the Indies. He was renowned for his conversion of the heathen, his gifts and miracles, and he was filled with merits and good works when he fell asleep in the Lord. Pope Pius X chose and appointed him the heavenly protector of the Society for the Propagation of the Faith and of the work for the same object. Pope Pius XI confirmed this and appointed him the special patron of all the Foreign Missions. His feast, by decree of Pope Alexander VII, is kept on the following day.


At Rome, the holy martyrs Eusebius, a priest, Marcellus, a deacon, Hippolytus, Maximus, Adria, Paulina, Neon, Mary, Martana, and Aurelia, who fulfilled their martyrdoms under the judge Secundian in the persecution of Valerian.


Also at Rome, St. Pontian, martyr, with four others.


In Africa, the birthday of the holy martyrs Severus, Securus, Januarius, and Victorinus, who were there crowned with martyrdom.


At Aquileia, St. Chromatius, bishop and confessor.


At Verona, St. Lupus, bishop and confessor.


At Edessa in Syria, St. Nonnus, bishop, by whose prayers Pelagia the penitent was converted to Christ.


At Troas in Phrygia, St. Silvanus, bishop, renowned for miracles.


At Brescia, St. Evasius, 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 December 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-December 3rd
Roman Martyrology-December 3rd-on this date in various years-


St. Francis Xavier, priest of the Society of Jesus, confessor, Apostle of the Indies, and heavenly patron of the Society for the Propagation of the Faith, and also of all the Missions, who died on the day previous.


In Judea, the holy prophet Sophonias.


At Rome, the holy martyrs Claudius, a tribune, and Hilaria, his wife, with Jason and Maur, their sons, and seventy soldiers. By the command of Emperor Numerian, Claudius was fastened to a large stone and thrown into the river, the soldiers and the sons of Claudius were condemned to capital punishment. But blessed Hilaria, after having buried the bodies of her sons, and while praying at their tomb, was arrested by the pagans, and shortly after departed for heaven.


At Tangier in Morocco, St. Cassian, martyr. After having been a recorder for a long time, at length, by an inspiration from heaven, he deemed it a hateful thing to contribute to the massacre of the Christians, and therefore abandoned his office, and making a profession of Christianity, he deserved to obtain the triumph of martyrdom.


Also in Africa, the holy martyrs Claudius, Crispin, Magina, John, and Stephen.


In Hungary, St. Agricola, martyr.


At Nicomedia, the martyrdom of the Saints Ambicus, Victor, and Julius.


At Milan, St. Mirocles, bishop and confessor, sometimes mentioned by St. Ambrose.


At Dorchester in England, St. Birinus, who was the first bishop of that city.


At Chur in Germany, St. Lucius, king of the Britons, who in the time of Pope Eleutherius, was the first of their kings to receive the faith of Christ.


At Siena in Tuscany, St. Galganus, hermit.


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 December 3:


CHAPTER LII
Of the Oratory of the Monastery


Let the Oratory be what it is called, a place of prayer: and let nothing else be done, or kept there.* When the Work of God is ended, let all go out with the utmost silence, paying due reverence to God, so that a brother, who perchance wishes to pray by himself, may not be hindered by another's misconduct. If any one desire to pray in private, let him go in quietly and pray, not with a loud voice, but with tears and fervour of heart. And let it not be permitted, as we have said, to remain in the Oratory when the Work of God is finished, except it be for a like purpose, lest hindrance be caused to others.


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


St. Peter Chrysologus, bishop of Ravenna, confessor, and doctor of the Church, whose birthday is kept on the 2nd of December.


At Nicomedia, the passion of St. Barbara, virgin and martyr, in the persecution of Maximinus. After a series of sufferings, a long imprisonment, the burning with torches, and the cutting away of her breasts, her martyrdom was fulfilled by the sword.


At Constantinople, St. Theophanes and his companions.


In Pontus, blessed Meletius, bishop and confessor, who joined to an eminent gift of knowledge the more distinguished glory of fortitude and integrity of life.


At Bologna, St. Felix, bishop was one time deacon of the Milanese Church under St. Ambrose.


In England, St. Osmund, bishop and confessor.


At Cologne, St. Anno, bishop.


In Mesopotamia, St. Maruthas, bishop, who restored the churches of God that had been ruined in Persia by the persecution of King Isdegerd. Being renowned for many miracles, he merited to be honoured even by his enemies.


At Parma, St. Bernard, cardinal and bishop of that city, of the Congregation of Vallombrosa of the Order of St. Benedict.


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 December 4:


CHAPTER LIII
Of receiving Guests


Let all guests that come be received like Christ Himself, for He will say: "I was a stranger and ye took Me in." And let fitting honour be shewn to all, especially to such as are of the household of the faith, and to strangers. When, therefore, a guest is announced, let him be met by the Superior or the brethren, with all due charity. Let them first pray together, and thus associate with one another in peace; but the kiss of peace must not be offered until after prayer, on account of the delusions of the devil. In this salutation let all humility be shewn. At the arrival or departure of all guests, let Christ - who indeed is received in their persons - be adored in them, by bowing the head or even prostrating on the ground.


When the guests have been received, let them be led to prayer, and then let the Superior, or any one he may appoint, sit with them. The law of God is to be read before the guest for his edification; and afterwards let all kindness be shewn him. The Superior may break his fast for the sake of the guest, unless it happen to be a principal fast-day, which may not be broken. The brethren, however, shall observe their accustomed fasting. Let the Abbot pour water on the hands of the guests; and himself, as well as the whole community, wash their feet after which let them say this verse: "We have received Thy mercy, O God, in the midst of Thy Temple." Let special care be taken in the reception of the poor and of strangers, because in them Christ is more truly welcomed. For the very fear men have of the rich procures them honour.


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


In Judea, St. Sabbas, abbot, who was born in the town of Mutala in Cappadocia. He gave a wondrous example of holiness and laboured most zealously for the Catholic faith against those who attacked the holy Council of Chalcedon. He rested in peace in the monastery later named for him in the diocese of Jerusalem.


At Nice, near the river Var, St. Bassus, bishop. In the persecution of Decius and Valerian, he was tortured by the governor Perennius for the faith of Christ, burned with hot plates of metal, beaten with rods and whips garnished with pieces of iron, and thrown into the fire. When he came out of it unhurt, he was pierced with two spikes, and thus completed an illustrious martyrdom.


At Pavia, St. Dalmatius, bishop and martyr, who suffered in the persecution of Maximian.


At Corfinio in Peligno, St. Pelinus, bishop of Brindisi, at the time of Julian the Apostate. When the temple of Mars fell to the ground at his prayer, he was severely scourged by the priests of the temple, and being pierced with eighty-five wounds, he merited the crown of martyrdom.


Also, St. Anastasius, martyr, who in his ardent desire for martyrdom gave himself up voluntarily to the persecutors.


At Thagura in Africa, the holy martyrs Julius, Potamias, Crispin, Felix, Gratus, and seven others.


At Thebaste in Africa, St. Crispina, a woman of the highest nobility who refused to sacrifice to idols during the reign of Diocletian and Maximian, and was beheaded by order of the proconsul Anolinus. Her praises are often celebrated by St. Augustine.


At Treves, St. Nicetius, bishop, a man of great sanctity.


At Polybotum in Asia, St. John, bishop, surnamed the Wonderworker.


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 December 5:


CHAPTER LIII
Of receiving Guests (cont.)


Let the kitchen for the Abbot and guests be apart by itself; so that strangers, who are never wanting in a monastery, may not disturb the brethren by coming at unlooked-for hours. Let two brothers, who are well able to fulfil the duty, be placed in this kitchen for a year; and let help be afforded them as they require it, so that they may serve without murmuring. When they have not much to occupy them there, let them go forth to other work, wherever they may be bidden. And not only with regard to them, but in all the offices of the Monastery, let there be such consideration shewn, that when there is need of help it may be given them; and that when they are without work, they do whatever they are commanded. Let the care of the guest-house, also, be entrusted to a brother whose soul is possessed with the fear of God: let there be sufficient beds prepared there and let the house of God be wisely governed by prudent men. Let no one, except he be bidden, on any account associate or converse with the guests. But if he chance to meet or to see them, after humbly saluting them, as we have said, and asking their blessing,* let him pass on, saying that he is not permitted to talk with a guest.


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


At Myra, which is the metropolis of Lycia, the birthday of St. Nicholas, bishop and confessor, of whom it is related, among other miracles, that, while at a great distance from Emperor Constantine, he appeared to him in a vision and moved him to mercy so as to deter him from putting to death some persons who had implored his assistance.


On the same day, St. Polychronius, priest, who was surprised while offering Mass at the altar and slain by the Arians, in the reign of Emperor Constantius.


In Africa, St. Majorcus, son of St. Dionysia, who, being quite young and dreading the torments, was strengthened by the looks and words of his mother, and becoming stronger than the rest, expired in torments. His mother took him in her arms, and having buried him in her own home, was wont to pray diligently at his tomb.


In the same place, the holy women Dionysia, who was the mother of St. Majorcus the martyr, Dativa, and Leontia; also a pious man named Tertius, Emilian a physician, Boniface, and three others. In the persecution of the Vandals, under the Arian king Hunneric, they were subjected to numberless most painful tortures for the Catholic faith, and thus merited to rank among the confessors of Christ.


At Rome, St. Asella, virgin, who according to the words of St. Jerome, being blessed from her mother's womb, lived to old age in fasting and prayer.


At Granada in Spain, the passion of blessed Peter Paschasius, bishop of Jaen and martyr, a member of the Order of our Lady of Ransom for the Redemption of Captives.


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 December 6:


CHAPTER LIV
Whether a Monk ought to receive letters, or tokens


By no means let a monk be allowed to receive, either from his parents or any one else, or from his brethren, letters, tokens, or any gifts whatsoever, or to give them to others, without permission of the Abbot. And if anything be sent to him, even by his parents, let him not presume to receive it until it hath been made known to the Abbot. But even if the Abbot order it to be received, it shall be in his power to bid it be given to whom he pleaseth; and let not the brother to whom it may have been sent be grieved, lest occasion be given to the devil. Should any one, however, presume to act otherwise, let him be subjected to the discipline of the Rule.


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


The Vigil of the Immaculate Conception of the Blessed Virgin Mary.


St. Ambrose, bishop and doctor of the Church, who fell asleep in the Lord on the 4th of April; his feast is kept on this day, the day on which he assumed the government of the Church of Milan.


At Rome, blessed Eutychian, pope, who with his own hand buried three hundred and forty-two martyrs in various places. He himself was joined with them, crowned with martyrdom under Emperor Numerian, and was buried in the cemetery of Callistus.


At Alexandria, the birthday of blessed Agatho, soldier. In the persecution of Decius, because he prevented some people from mocking the bodies of the martyrs, a sudden clamour was raised against him by the crowd. Being brought before the judge, and persisting in his confession of Christ, he was sentenced to death for his reverence.


At Antioch, the holy martyrs Polycarp and Theodore.


At Tuburbum in Africa, during the persecution of the Vandals, under the Arian king Hunneric, St. Servus, martyr, who, being for a very long time beaten with rods, lifted up on high with pulleys, and suddenly dropped on flint-stones with his whole weight, and rubbed over with sharp stones, obtained the palm of martyrdom.


At Teano in Campania, St. Urban, bishop and confessor.


At Saintes in France, St. Martin, abbot, at whose tomb frequent miracles have been worked through the power of God.


At Faremoutiers, in the diocese of Meaux, the commemoration of St. Phara, who is also called Burgundofara, abbess and virgin. Her birthday is on the 3rd of April.


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 December 7:


CHAPTER LV
Of the Clothes and Shoes of the Brethren


Let clothing be given to the brethren suitable to the nature and the climate of the place where they live; for in cold countries more is required, in warm countries less. This must therefore be considered by the Abbot. We think, however, that in temperate climates a cowl and a tunic should suffice for each monk: the cowl to be of thick stuff in winter, but in summer something worn or thin: likewise a scapular for work, and shoes and stockings to cover their feet. And let not the monks complain of the colour or coarseness of these things, but let them be such as can be got in the country where they live, or can be bought most cheaply.


Let the Abbot be careful about the size of the garments, that they be not too short for those who wear them, but of the proper length. When they receive new clothes let them always give up the old ones at once, to be put by in the wardrobe for the poor. For it is sufficient for a monk to have two tunics and two cowls for wearing at night, and also for washing: whatever is over and above this is superfluous, and ought to be cut off. In the same way, let them give up their shoes, and whatever else is worn out, when they receive new ones. Let those who are sent on a journey receive drawers from the wardrobe, and on their return restore them washed. Their cowls and tunics also, which are to be a little better than those they ordinarily wear, let them receive from the wardrobe when setting out on their journey, and give them back on their return.


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


The Immaculate Conception of the glorious and ever Virgin Mary, Mother of God. On this day, Pius IX solemnly declared her to have been by a singular privilege of God preserved from all stain of original sin.


At Treves, St. Eucharius, a disciple of blessed Peter the Apostle, first bishop of that city.


At Alexandria, St. Macarius, martyr, whose constancy in professing the faith increased with the efforts made by the judge to persuade him to deny Christ. He was finally condemned to be burned alive.


In Cyprus, the holy bishop Sophronius, who was a devoted protector of orphans and widows, and a helper of the poor and oppressed.


In the monastery of Luxeuil in France, St. Romaricus, abbot, who left the highest station at the court of King Theodobert, renounced the world, and surpassed others in the observance of monastic discipline.


At Constantinople, St. Patapius, solitary, renowned for virtues and miracles.


At Rome, the finding of the holy martyrs Nemesis, a deacon, his daughter Lucina, a virgin, Symphronius, Olympius the tribune and his wife Exuperia and his son Theodulus, whose commemoration is made on the 25th of August.


At Verona, the ordination of St. Zeno, 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 December 8:


CHAPTER LV
Of the Clothes and Shoes of the Brethren (cont.)


For their bedding let a straw mattress, blanket, coverlet and pillow suffice. These beds must be frequently inspected by the Abbot, to see if any private property be discovered therein. And if any one should be found to have anything which he hath not received from the Abbot, let him be subjected to the most severe discipline. In order that this vice of private ownership may be rooted out entirely, let the Abbot supply them with all necessaries: that is, a cowl, tunic, shoes, stockings, girdle, knife, pen, needle, handkerchief, and tablets; so that all plea of wanting anything may be taken away. Yet let the Abbot always be mindful of those words of the Acts of the Apostles: "Distribution was made to everyone, according as he had need." Let him, therefore, consider the infirmities of such as are in want, and not the ill-will of the envious. Nevertheless, in all his judgments, let him think of the retribution of God.




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


At Carthage, St. Restitutus, bishop and martyr, on whose feast St. Augustine delivered a discourse to the people in which he set forth his praises.


Also in Africa, the holy martyrs Peter, Successus, Bassian, Primitivus, and twenty others.


At Toledo in Spain, the birthday of the holy virgin Leocadia, a martyr in the persecution of Emperor Diocletian. She was condemned to a cruel imprisonment by Dacian, prefect of Spain, and was pining away when, hearing of the barbarous tortures of blessed Eulalia and the other martyrs, she knelt down to pray and yielded up her undefiled spirit to Christ.


At Limoges in Aquitaine, St. Valeria, virgin and martyr.


At Verona, during the persecution of Diocletian, St. Proculus, bishop, who was buffeted, scourged with rods, and driven out of the city. Being at length restored to his church, he died in peace.


At Pavia, St. Syrus, first bishop of that city, who was renowned for apostolic signs and virtues.


At Apamea in Syria, blessed Julian, bishop, who flourished in holiness in the time of Severus.


At Gray in Burgundy, St. Peter Fournier, Canon Regular of Our Saviour and the founder of the Canonesses Regular of Our Lady for the education of children. Because of his brilliant virtues and miracles, Leo XIII placed him the catalogue of the Saints.


At Perigueux in France, St. Cyprian, abbot, a man of great sanctity.


At Nazianzum in Cappadocia, St. Gorgonia, of whose virtues and miracles St. Gregory has written. She was the daughter of blessed Nonna and the sister of St. Gregory the Theologian and St. Caesarius.


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 December 9:


CHAPTER LVI
Of the Abbot's Table


Let the table of the Abbot be always with the guests and strangers. But as often as there are few guests, it shall be in his power to invite any of the brethren. Let him take care, however, always to leave one or two seniors with the brethren for the sake of discipline.


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


St. Melchiades, pope and martyr, whose birthday is mentioned on the 11th of January.


At Rome, on the Ostian Way, the Dedication of the Basilica of St. Paul the Apostle. The yearly commemoration of this Dedication, together with that of St. Peter, prince of the apostles, is observed on the 18th of November.


Also, the holy martyrs Carpophorus, a priest, and Abundius, a deacon, in the persecution of Diocletian. They were first cruelly beaten with rods, then imprisoned and denied food and drink; being placed on the rack a second time and again thrown into prison, they were finally beheaded.


At Alexandria, the holy martyrs Mennas, Hermogenes, and Eugraphus, who suffered under Galerius Maximian.


At Lentini in Sicily, the holy martyrs Mercurius and his soldier companions, who were slain by the sword under the governor Tertyllus, in the reign of Emperor Licinius.


At Ancyra in Galatia, St. Gemellus, martyr, who, after severe torments, fulfilled his martyrdom by being crucified in the time of Julian the Apostate.


At Merida in Spain, in the time of Maximian, the martyrdom of the holy virgin Eulalia, who at twelve years of age suffered many torments for the confession of Christ by order of the governor Dacian. She was stretched on the rack, torn with iron claws, had her sides burned with flaming torches, and swallowing the fire she expired.


Also, in the same city, St. Julia, virgin and martyr, the companion of the blessed Eulalia, who would not be separated from her when the latter went to suffer.


At Rome, Pope St. Gregory III, who departed for heaven renowned for his sanctity and good works.


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


At Brescia, St. Deusdedit, bishop.


At Loretto in Piceno, the Translation of the Holy House of Mary the Mother of God, wherein the Word was made flesh. Pope Benedict XV declared the same Blessed Virgin Mary, under the title of Loretto, to be the chief Patroness before God of all airmen.


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 December 10:


CHAPTER LVII
Of the Artificers of the Monastery


Should there be artificers in the Monastery, let them work at their crafts in all humility, if the Abbot give permission. But if any of them be puffed up by reason of his knowledge of his craft, in that he seemeth to confer some benefit on the Monastery, let such a one be taken from it, and not exercise it again, unless, perchance, when he hath humbled himself, the Abbot bid him work at it anew. And if any of the work of the artificers is to be sold, let those by whom the business is done see that they defraud not the Monastery. Let them ever be mindful of Ananias and Saphira, lest perchance, they, and all who deal fraudulently with the goods of the Monastery, should suffer in their souls the death which these incurred in the body. But with regard to the prices of such things, let not the vice of avarice creep in, but let them always be sold a little cheaper than by men in the world, that God may be glorified in all things.


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


At Rome, St. Damasus, pope and confessor, who condemned the heresiarch Apollinaris, and restored to his See Peter, bishop of Alexandria, who had been driven from it. He also discovered the bodies of many holy martyrs and composed verses in their honour.


Also at Rome, St. Thrason. He was arrested by order of Maximian for supporting with his goods the Christians who laboured in the baths and at other public works, and those confined in jail. He was crowned with martyrdom with two others, Pontian and prætextatus.


At Amiens in France, the holy martyrs Victoricus and Fuscian, under the same emperor. By order of Governor Rictiovarus, they had iron pins driven into their ears and nostrils, heated nails into their temples, and arrows into their bodies and their eyes torn out. They were beheaded with St. Gentian, their guest, and they passed to the Lord.


In Persia, St. Barbabas, martyr.


In Spain, St. Eutychius, martyr.


At Piacenza, St. Sabinus, bishop, renowned for miracles.


At Constantinople, St. Daniel Stylites.


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