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


At Naples in Campania, St. Cajetan the Theatine, confessor, founder of the Clerics Regular, who, through singular confidence in God, made his disciples practise the primitive mode of life of the apostles. Being renowned for miracles, he was ranked among the saints by Clement X.


At Arezzo in Tuscany, the birthday of St. Donatus, bishop and martyr, who among other miraculous deeds by his prayers (as is related by blessed Pope Gregory) made whole again a sacred chalice which had been broken by pagans. Being apprehended by the imperial officer Quadratian, during the persecution of Julian the Apostate, and refusing to sacrifice to idols, he was struck with the sword, and thus fulfilled his martyrdom. With him suffered also the blessed monk Hilarinus, whose feast is celebrated on the 16th of July, at which time his body was taken to Ostia.


At Rome, the holy martyrs Peter and Julian, with eighteen others.


At Milan, St. Faustus, a soldier, who obtained the palm of martyrdom after many trials in the time of Aurelius Commodus.


At Como, the passion of the holy martyrs Carpophorus, Exanthus, Cassius, Severinus, Secundus, and Licinius, who were beheaded for the confession of Christ.


At Nisibis in Mesopotamia, St. Dometius, a Persian monk, who was stoned to death with two of his disciples at the time of Julian the Apostate.


At Rouen, the holy bishop St. Victricius. While he was yet a soldier under Julian, he threw away his military belt for Christ, and after being subjected by the tribune to many torments, was condemned to death. But the executioner sent to slay him being struck blind, and the confessor's chains being loosened, he made his escape. Afterwards being made bishop, by preaching the word of God, he brought to the faith of Christ the barbarous people of Belgic Gaul, and finally died in peace, a confessor.


At Chalons in France, St. Donatian, bishop.


At Messina in Sicily, St. Albert, confessor of the Carmelite Order, renowned for miracles.


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


The holy martyrs Cyriacus, deacon, Largus, and Smaragdus, with twenty others who suffered on the 16th of March, during the persecution of Diocletian and Maximian. Their bodies were buried on the Salarian Way by the priest John, but were on this day translated by Pope St. Marcellus to the estate of Lucina, on the Ostian Way. Afterwards they were brought to the city and placed in the church of St. Mary in Via Lata.


At Anzarba in Cilicia, St. Marinus, an old man who was scourged, racked, and lacerated, and who died by being exposed to wild beasts, in the time of Emperor Diocletian and the governor Lysias.


Also, the holy martyrs Eleutherius and Leonides, who underwent martyrdom by fire.


In Persia, St. Hormisdas, a martyr under King Sapor.


At Cyzicum, on the Hellespont, St. Aemilian, bishop, who ended his life in exile after having suffered much from Emperor Leo for the veneration of holy images.


In Crete, St. Myron, a bishop renowned for miracles.


At Vienne in France, St. Severus, priest and confessor, who undertook a painful journey from India in order to preach the Gospel in that city, and converted a great number of pagans to the faith of Christ by his works and miracles.


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


The vigil of St. Lawrence, martyr.


St. John Baptist-Mary Vianney, priest and confessor, and heavenly patron of all parish priests, whose birthday is remembered on the 4th day of this month.


At Rome, St. Romanus, a soldier, who was moved by the torments of blessed Lawrence to ask for baptism from him. He was immediately prosecuted, scourged, and finally beheaded.


In Tuscany, the birthday of the holy martyrs Secundian, Marcellian, and Verian. In the time of Decius, they were scourged by the exconsul Promotus, then racked and torn with iron hooks. Being burned with fie applied to their sides, they merited the triumphant palm of martyrdom by being beheaded.


At Verona, the holy martyrs Firmus and Rusticus. When they refused to sacrifice to idols and remained constant in confessing Christ, after they had overcome many other torments, they were condemned to be scourged and beheaded by Anolinus, a judge, during the reign of Emperor Maximian.


In Africa, the commemoration of many holy martyrs during the persecution of Valerian. Being exhorted by St. Numidicus, they obtained the palm of martyrdom by being cast into the fire, but Numidicus, although thrown into the flames with the others and overwhelmed with stones, was nevertheless taken out by his daughter. Found half dead, he was restored and deserved afterwards by his virtue to be made priest of the Church of Carthage by blessed Cyprian.


At Constantinople, the holy martyrs Julian, Marcian, and eight others. For having set up the image of our Saviour on the brass gate, they were exposed to many torments, and then beheaded by order of the impious emperor Leo.


At Chalons in France, St. Domitian, 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 August 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-August 10th
Roman Martyrology-August 10th- on this date in various years-


At Rome, on the Tiburtine Way, the birthday of the blessed archdeacon Lawrence, martyred during the persecution of Valerian. After much suffering from imprisonment, from scourging with whips set with iron or lead, from hot metal plates, he at last completed his martyrdom by being slowly consumed on an iron instrument made in the form of a gridiron. His body was buried by blessed Hippolytus and the priest Justin in the cemetery of Cyriaca, in the Agro Verano.


In Spain, the apparition of the Blessed Virgin Mary under the title of our Lady of Ransom, foundress of the Order for the Redemption of Captives. Her feast is celebrated on the 24th of September.


At Rome, the passion of one hundred and sixty-five holy martyrs, who were soldiers under Emperor Aurelian.


At Alexandria, the commemoration of the holy martyrs who in the persecution of Valerian, under the governor Emilian, were long tormented with diverse and sharp tortures, and obtained the crown of martyrdom by various kinds of deaths.


At Bergamo, St. Asteria, virgin and martyr, in the persecution of Emperors Diocletian and Maximian.


At Carthage, the holy virgins and martyrs Bassa, Paula, and Agathonica.


At Rome, the holy confessor Deusdedit, a labouring man who gave to the poor every Saturday what he had earned during the week.


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

At Rome, between the two laurels situation about three miles from the city, the birthday of St. Tiburtius, martyr, under the judge Fabian, in the persecution of Diocletian. After he had walked barefooted on burning coals and confessed Christ with increased constancy, he was put to the sword.

Also at Rome, the holy virgin Susanna, a woman of noble race, and niece of the blessed Pontiff Caius. She merited the palm of martyrdom by being beheaded in the time of Diocletian.

At Assisi in Umbria, the birthday of St. Clare, virgin, the first of the Poor Ladies of the Order of Friars Minor. Being celebrated fro holiness of life and miracles, she was placed among the holy virgins by Pope Alexander IV. Her feast, however, is observed on the day following.

At Comana in Pontus, St. Alexander, bishop, surnamed Carbonarius, who added to a masterful knowledge of philosophy an eminent degree of Christian humility. He was promoted to the See of that church by St. Gregory Thaumaturgus, and became illustrious, not only by preaching, but also by suffering martyrdom by fire.

The same day, the martyrdom of St. Rufinus, Bishop of the Marsi, and his companions, under Emperor Maximinus.

At Evreux in France, St. Thaurinus, bishop. Being made bishop of that city by blessed Pope Clement, he propagated the Christian faith by the preaching of the Gospel, and the many labours he sustained for it. Celebrated for glorious miracles, he fell asleep in the Lord.

At Cambrai in France, St. Gaugericus, bishop and confessor.

In the province of Valeria, St. Equitius, abbot, whose sanctity is attested by blessed Pope Gregory.

At Todi in Umbria, St. Digna, 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 August 11:


CHAPTER LVIII
Of the Discipline of receiving Brethren into Religion


To him that newly cometh to change his life, let not an easy entrance be granted, but, as the Apostle saith, "Try the spirits if they be of God." If, therefore, he that cometh persevere in knocking, and after four or five days seem patiently to endure the wrongs done to him and the difficulty made about his coming in, and to persist in his petition, let entrance be granted him, and let him be in the guest-house for a few days. Afterwards let him go into the Novitiate, where he is to meditate and study, to take his meals and to sleep. Let a senior, one who is skilled in gaining souls, be appointed over him to watch him with the utmost care, and to see whether he is truly seeking God, and is fervent in the Work of God, in obedience and in humiliations. Let all the hard and rugged paths by which we walk towards God be set before him. And if he promise steadfastly to persevere, after the lapse of two months let this Rule be read through to him, with these words: "Behold the law, under which thou desirest to fight. If thou canst observe it, enter in; if thou canst not, freely depart." If he still stand firm, let him be taken back to the aforesaid cell of the Novices, and again tried with all patience. And, after a space of six months, let the Rule be again read to him, that he may know unto what he cometh. Should he still persevere, after four months let the same Rule be read to him once more. And if, having well considered within himself, he promise to keep it in all things, and to observe everything that is commanded him, then let him be received into the community, knowing that he is now bound by the law of the Rule, so that from that day forward he cannot depart from the Monastery, nor shake from off his neck the yoke of the Rule, which after such prolonged deliberation he was free either to refuse or to accept.


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


St. Clare, virgin, the first fruits of the Poor Ladies of the Order of Friars Minor, who was called to the everlasting nuptials of the Lamb on the day previous.


The same day, the holy martyrs Porcarius, abbot of the monastery of Lerins, and five hundred monks, who were slain for the Catholic faith by barbarians, and were thus crowned with martyrdom.


At Catania in Sicily, the birthday of St. Euplius, deacon, under Emperors Diocletian and Maximian. He was long tortured for the confession of the Lord, and finally obtained the palm of martyrdom by being put to the sword.


At Augsburg, St. Hilaria, mother of the blessed martyr Afra. Because she watched at the tomb of her daughter she was cast into the fire for the faith of Christ, together with her maidservants Digna, Euprepia, and Eunomia. On the same day there suffered also in that city Quiriacus, Largius, Crescentian, Nimmia, and Juliana, with twenty others.


In Syria, the holy martyrs Marcarius and Julian.


At Nicomedia, the holy martyrs Count Anicetus and his brother Photinus, along with many others, under Emperor Diocletian.


At Faleria in Tuscany, the Saints Gracilian, and Felicissima, virgin, who, for the confession of the faith, first had their mouths bruised with stones, and being afterwards struck with the sword, received the palm of martyrdom.


At Milan, the death of St. Eusebius, bishop and confessor.


At Brescia, St. Herculanus, 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 August 12:


CHAPTER LVIII
Of the Discipline of receiving Brethren into Religion (cont.)


Let him who is to be received make before all, in the Oratory, a promise of STABILITY, CONVERSION OF LIFE, and OBEDIENCE, in the presence of God and of His saints, so that, if he should ever act otherwise, he may know that he will be condemned by Him Whom he mocketh. Let him draw up this promise in writing, in the name of the saints whose relics are in the altar, and of the Abbot there present. And let him write it with his own hand; or at least, if he knoweth not how, let another write it at his request, and let the Novice put his mark to it, and place it with his own hand upon the altar. When he hath done this, let the Novice himself immediately begin this verse: "Uphold me, O Lord, according to Thy Word, and I shall live: and let me not be confounded in my expectation." And this verse let the whole community thrice repeat, adding thereto Gloria Patri. Then let the newly-received brother cast himself at the feet of all, that they may pray for him, and from that day let him be counted as one of the community. Whatever property he hath let him first bestow upon the poor, or by a solemn deed of gift make over to the Monastery, keeping nothing of it all for himself, as knowing that from that day forward he will have no power even over his own body. Forthwith, therefore, in the Oratory, let him be stripped of his own garments, wherewith he is clad, and be clothed in those of the Monastery. And let the garments that are taken from him be laid by and kept in the wardrobe; so that if ever, by the persuasion of the devil, he consent (which God forbid) to leave the Monastery, he may be stripped of the monastic habit and cast forth. But the form of his profession, which the Abbot took from the altar, shall not be given back to him, but be kept in the Monastery.




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


At Rome, the blessed Hippolytus, martyr, who gloriously confessed the faith, under Emperor Valerian. After enduring other torments, he was tied by the feet to the necks of wild horses, and being cruelly dragged through briars and brambles, and having all his body lacerated, he yielded up his spirit. On the same day suffered also blessed Concordia, his nurse, who being scourged in his presence with leaded whips, went to our Lord, and nineteen others of his household, who were beheaded beyond the Tiburtine Gate, and buried with him in the Agro Verano.


At Imola, the birthday of St. Cassian, martyr. As he refused to worship idols, the persecutor called the boys whom the saint had taught and who hated him, giving them leave to kill him. The torment suffered by the martyr was the more grievous, as the hands which inflicted it, by reason of weakness, rendered death long drawn-out.


At Todi in Umbria, St. Cassian, bishop and martyr, under Emperor Diocletian.


At Burgos in Spain, Saints Centolla and Helena, martyrs.


At Constantinople, St. Maximus, a monk distinguished for learning and for zeal for Catholic truth. Valiantly disputing the Monothelites, he had his hands and tongue torn from him by the heretical emperor Constans, and was banished to Chersonesus, where he breathed his last. At this time, two of his disciples, both named Anastasius, and many others endured divers torments and the hardships of exile.


At Fritzlar in Germany, St. Wigbert, priest and confessor.


At Rome, the birthday of St. John Berchmans, a scholastic of the Society of Jesus, illustrious for his innocence and for his fidelity to the rules of the religious life. He was canonized by Pope Leo XIII.


At Poitiers in France, St. Radegund, queen, whose life was renowned for miracles and 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 August 13:


CHAPTER LIX
Of the Sons of Nobles or of Poor Men that are offered


If any nobleman shall perchance offer his son to God in the Monastery, let the parents, should the boy be still in infancy, make for him the written promise as aforesaid; and together with the oblation* let them wrap that promise and the hand of the child in the altar-cloth and so offer him up. With respect to his property, they must in the same document promise under oath that they will never either themselves, or through any one else, or in any way whatever, give him anything, or the means of having anything. Or else, if they are unwilling to do this, and desire to offer something as an alms to the Monastery, for their own advantage, let them make a donation of whatever they please to the Monastery, reserving to themselves, if they will, the income thereof during their life. Thus let all possibility of expectation be excluded whereby the child might be deceived and so perish (which God forbid), as we have learnt by experience may happen. Let those who are poorer do in like manner. But those who have nothing whatever may simply make the promise in writing, and, with the oblation, offer their son before witnesses.




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


The Vigil of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary.


At Rome, the birthday of the blessed priest Eusebius, who for the defence of the Catholic faith was shut up in a room of his own house by the Arian emperor Constantius, where constantly persevering in prayer for seven months, he rested in peace. His body was removed by the priests Gregory and Orosius, and buried in the cemetery of Callistus, on the Appian Way.


At Apamea in Syria, St. Marcellus, bishop and martyr, who was killed by the enraged heathen for having pulled down a temple of Jupiter.


At Todi in Umbria, St. Callistus, bishop and martyr.


In Illyria, St. Ursicius, martyr, who was beheaded for Christ after suffering various torments under Emperor Maximian and the governor Aristides.


In Africa, St. Demetrius, martyr.


In the island of Aegina, St. Athanasia, widow, celebrated for monastical observance and the gift of miracles.


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 August 14:


CHAPTER LX
Of Priests who may wish to dwell in the Monastery


If any one in priestly orders ask to be received into the Monastery, let not consent be too quickly granted him; but if he persist in his request, let him know that he will have to observe all the discipline of the Rule, and that nothing will be relaxed in his favour, according as it is written "Friend, wherefore art thou come?" Let him, nevertheless, be allowed to stand next the Abbot, to give the blessing, and to say Mass, if the Abbot bid him do so. Otherwise, let him presume to do nothing, knowing that he is subject to the discipline of the Rule; but rather let him give an example of humility to all. And if there be a question of any appointment, or other business in the Monastery, let him expect the position due to him according to the time of his entrance, and not that which was yielded to him out of reverence for the priesthood. If any clerics should desire in the same way to be admitted into the Monastery, let them be placed in a middle rank: but in their case also, only on condition that they promise observance of the Rule, and stability therein.


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


The Assumption of the most holy Virgin Mary, Mother of God.


At Cracow in Poland, St. Hyacinth, confessor of the Order of Preachers, whom Pope Clement VIII placed in the number of the saints. His feast is observed on the 17th of August.


At Alba Regalis in Hungary, St. Stephen, King of Hungary, who was graced with divine virtues, was the first to convert the Hungarians to the faith of Christ, and was received into heaven by the Virgin Mother of God on the very day of her Assumption. By decree of Pope Innocent XI, his feast is kept on the 2nd of September, on which day the strong city of Buda, by the aid of the holy king, was recovered by the Christian army.


At Rome, on the Appian Way, St. Tarsicius, acolyte. The pagans accosted him as he was carrying the Sacrament of Christ's Body, and began to inquire what it was. But he judged it an unworthy thing to cast pearls before swine. They therefore beat him with sticks and stones until he expired. The sacrilegious searchers examined his body, but found no vestige of the Sacrament of Christ, either in his hands or in his clothes. The Christians took up the body of the martyr, and buried it reverently in the cemetery of Callistus.


At Tagaste in Africa, St. Alipius, bishop, who was the disciple of blessed Augustine, and the companion of his conversion, his colleague in the pastoral charge, his valiant fellow-soldier in disputing heretics, and finally his partner in the glory of heaven.


At Soissons in France, St. Arnulf, bishop and confessor.


At Rome, St. Stanislas Kostka, a native of Poland, confessor of the Society of Jesus, who being made perfect in a short time, fulfilled a long time by the angelic innocence of his life. He was inscribed on the list 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 August 15:


CHAPTER LXI
Of Stranger Monks, how they are to be received


If any monk who is a stranger come from distant parts, and desire to dwell in the Monastery as a guest, and if he be content with the customs which he there findeth, and do not trouble the Monastery by any superfluous wants, but be satisfied with what he findeth, let him be received for as long a time as he will. And if reasonably and with humility he reprove and point out what is amiss, let the Abbot prudently mark his words, in case God perchance hath sent him for this very end. If afterwards he desire to bind himself to remain there, let not his wish be denied him, especially since during the time he was a guest his manner of life could well be ascertained.


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


St. Joachim, father of the most Blessed Virgin Mary, Mother of God, Confessor. His birthday is noted on the 20th of March.


At Rome, St. Titus, deacon, who, when the city was taken by the Goths, was put to death by a barbarous tribune while distributing money to the poor.


At Nicaea in Bithynia, St. Diomede, a physician who underwent martyrdom by being beheaded during the persecution of Diocletian.


In Palestine thirty-three holy martyrs.


At Ferentino in Campania, St. Ambrose, centurion. In the persecution of Diocletian he was subjected to different kinds of tortures, and finally passing through fire without injury, was cast into the waters, and thus reached the place of eternal rest.


At Milan, the death of St. Simplician, bishop, renowned by the testimony of given of him by St. Ambrose and St. Augustine.


At Auxerre, St. Eleutherius, bishop.


At Nicomedia, St. Arsacius, confessor. Under the persecution of Licinius he left the military service, and leading a solitary life, became so famous for working miracles that we read of his expelling the demons and killing a huge dragon by his prayers. Finally he foretold the destruction of the city, and gave up his soul to God in prayer.


In France, near Montpellier, in the province of Narbonne, the death of blessed Roch, confessor, who by the sing of the cross, delivered many cities of Italy from an epidemic. His body was afterwards transferred to Venice, and deposited with the greatest honours in the church dedicated under his invocation.


At Rome, St. Serena, who had been the wife of Emperor Diocletian.


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

OmniaInstaurareInChristo


The reading appointed from the Rule of St. Benedict for August 16:


CHAPTER LXI
Of Stranger Monks, how they are to be received (cont.)


But if during that time he was found burdensome or prone to vice, not only must he not be admitted among the brethren, but he must even be courteously bidden to depart, lest others should be corrupted by his evil living. If, however, he is not such as to deserve to be sent away, let him not merely on his own asking be received and admitted into the community, but even be persuaded to remain, that the others may be taught by his example: because in every place we serve one God, and fight under one King. And if the Abbot perceive him to be a man of this kind, he may put him in a somewhat higher place. It shall be in the Abbot's power to assign not only to a simple monk, but also to any of the aforesaid priests or clerics, a higher place than that due to them by their entrance into the Monastery, if he see that their lives are such as to deserve it. But let the Abbot take care never to receive a monk from any known monastery, without his own Abbot's consent, and letters of recommendation; as it is written: "What thou wilt not have done to thyself, do not thou to another."


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


The Octave of St. Lawrence, martyr.


St. Hyacinth, confessor of the Order of Preachers, who fell asleep in the Lord on the 15th of August.


At Carthage in Africa, the holy martyrs Liberatus, abbot, Boniface, a deacon, Servus and Rusticus, subdeacons, Rogatus and Septimus, monks, and Maximus, a young child. In the persecution of the Vandals, under King Hunneric, they were subjected to various and unheard-of torments for the confession of the Catholic faith and the defence of one baptism. Finally, being nailed to the wood with which they were to be burned, as the fire was always miraculously extinguished whenever kindled, they were struck with iron bars by order of the tyrant until their brains were dashed out. Thus they ended the glorious series of their combats, and were crowned by our Lord.


In Achaia, St. Myron, priest and martyr, who was beheaded at Cyzicum after undergoing many torments, in the time of Emperor Decius and the governor Antipater.


At Caesarea in Cappadocia, the birthday of St. Mamas, martyr, the son of Saints Theodotus and Rufina, martyrs, who, from childhood to old age, endured a long martyrdom, and at length ended it happily in the reign of Aurelian, under the governor Alexander. He has been highly praised by the holy Fathers Basil and Gregory Nazianzen.


At Nicomedia, the holy martyrs Straton, Philip, and Eutychian, who were condemned to the beasts, but being uninjured by them, ended their martyrdom by fire.


At Ptolemais in Palestine, the holy martyrs Paul and his sister Juliana, virgin, who suffered under Aurelian. They were both punished with various cruel torments and were finally beheaded for their constancy in confessing the name of Christ.


At Rome, Pope St. Eusebius.


At Teramo, St. Anastasius, bishop and confessor.


At Montefalco in Umbria, St. Clare, a nun of the Order of Hermits of St. Augustine, virgin. In her flesh were renewed the mysteries of the Lord's passion, which the faithful honour with great devotion. Pope Leo XIII solemnly inscribed her in the list of the holy virgins.


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 August 17:


CHAPTER LXII
Of the Priests of the Monastery


If any Abbot desire to have a priest or deacon ordained for his Monastery, let him choose from among his monks one who is worthy to fulfil the priestly office. And let him that is ordained beware of arrogance and pride, and presume to do nothing that is not commanded him by the Abbot, knowing that he is now all the more subject to regular discipline. Let him not, by reason of his priesthood, become forgetful of the obedience and discipline of the Rule, but advance ever more and more in godliness. Let him always keep the place due to him according to his entrance into the Monastery, except with regard to his office at the altar, or unless the choice of the community and the will of the Abbot should raise him to a higher place for the merit of his life. Nevertheless, let him know that he must observe the rules prescribed by the deans or Prior. Should he presume to do otherwise, he shall be judged, not as a priest, but as a rebel; and if after frequent warning he do not correct himself, let recourse be had to the intervention of the Bishop.* If even then he will not amend, and his guilt is clearly shewn, let him be cast forth from the Monastery, provided his contumacy be such that he will not submit nor obey the Rule.


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


At Palestrina, the birthday of the holy martyr Agapitus. Although only fifteen years of age, because he was fervent in the love of Christ, he was arrested by order of Emperor Aurelian, and scourged for a long time. Afterwards, under the prefect Antiochus, he endured more severe torments, and being delivered to the lions by the emperor's order without receiving any injury, he was finally struck with the sword, and thus merited his crown.


At Rome, during the persecution of Diocletian, the blessed John and Crispus, priests, who charitably buried the bodies of many saints; afterwards becoming partakers of their merits, they deserved the joys of eternal life.


In the same city, the holy martyrs Hermas, Serapion, and Polyaenus. Being dragged through narrow, stony, and rough places, they yielded up their souls to God.


In Illyria, the holy martyrs Florus and Laurus, stonecutters, who, after the martyrdom of Proculus and Maximus, their employers, were subjected to many torments under the governor Licion, and plunged into a deep well.


At Myra in Lycia, the holy martyrs Leo and Juliana.


At Metz in France, St. Firmin, bishop and confessor.


At Rome, on the Via Lavicana, St. Helena, mother of the religious emperor Constantine the Great, who was the first to set the example to other princes of protecting and extending the Church.


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 August 18:


CHAPTER LXIII
Of the Order of the Community


Let everyone keep that place in the Monastery, which the time of his entering religion, the merit of his life, or the appointment of the Abbot shall determine. And let not the Abbot disquiet the flock committed to him, nor by an undue use of his authority ordain anything unjustly; but let him ever bear in mind that he will have to give an account to God of all his judgments and all his deeds. Therefore in that order which they hold, or which he shall have appointed, let the brethren receive the kiss of peace, approach to Communion, intone the Psalms, and stand in choir. And in no place whatsoever let age decide the order, or be prejudicial to it; for Samuel and Daniel, when but children, judged the elders. Excepting, therefore, those whom (as we have said) the Abbot hath promoted with some special object, or for distinct reasons hath degraded, let all the rest stand in the order of their coming to religion; so that, for example, he who entered the Monastery at the second hour of the day must know that he is lower than he who came at the first hour, whatever may be his age or dignity. The children are to be kept under discipline at all times and by every one.


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


At Caen in France, St. John Eudes, apostolic missionary, founder of the Congregation of Priests of Jesus and Mary and of the Order of Nuns of our Lady of Charity, and the promoter of the liturgical cult towards the most sacred Hearts of Christ and his Mother. He was canonized by Pope Pius XI.


At Rome, St. Julius, senator and martyr, who was delivered up to the judge Vitellius, and thrown into prison by him. By order of Emperor Commodus, he was beaten with rods until he expired. His body was buried in the cemetery of Caleposius on the Aurelian Way.


At Anagni, St. Magnus, bishop and martyr, who was put to death in the persecution of Decius.


In Cilicia, the birthday of St. Andrew, tribune, and his military companions, who were converted to Christianity through a miraculous victory they had gained over the Persians. Being accused on this account, they were massacred in the Mount Taurus pass, by the army of the governor Seleucus, under Emperor Maximian.


In Palestine, St. Timothy, a martyr in the persecution of Diocletian, under the governor Urbanus. After overcoming many torments, he was consumed with a slow fire. In the same country there suffered also Thecla and Agapius. The former, being exposed to the beasts, was torn to pieces by their teeth, and went to her Spouse; but Agapius, after enduring many torments, was reserved for greater trials.


At Rome, St. Sixtus III, pope and confessor.


In Provence, at the village of Brignoles, the death of St. Louis, bishop of Toulouse, of the Order of Friars Minor, renowned for holiness of life and miracles. His body was taken to Marseilles, and buried with due honours in the Church of the Friars Minor, but afterwards it was taken to Valencia in Spain, and enshrined in the cathedral.


In the neighbourhood of Sisteron in France, blessed Donatus, priest and confessor. Being from his very infancy endowed with the grace of God in an extraordinary manner, he lived the life of an anchoret for many years, and after having been renowned for glorious miracles, went to Christ.


In the territory of Bourges, St. Marianus, confessor, whose virtues and miracles were described with great praise by St. Gregory, bishop of Tours.


At Mantua, St. Rufina, confessor.


At Nuremburg, St. Sebald, hermit, noted for his virtues and miracles. Pope Martin V added his name to the list of the saints.


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

OmniaInstaurareInChristo


The reading appointed from the Rule of St. Benedict for August 19:


CHAPTER LXIII
Of the Order of the Community (cont.)


Let the younger brethren, then, reverence their elders, and the elder love the younger. In calling each other by name, let none address another by his simple name; but let the elders call the younger brethren Brothers, and the younger call their elders Fathers,* by which is implied the reverence due to a father. But let the Abbot, since he is considered to represent the person of Christ, be called Lord and Abbot, not that he hath taken it upon himself, but out of reverence and love for Christ. Let him be mindful of this, and shew himself to be worthy of such an honour. Wherever the brethren meet one another, let the younger ask a blessing from the elder. And when the elder passeth by, let the younger rise, and give place to him to sit down; nor let the younger presume to sit with him, unless the elder bid him, that it may come to pass as it is written: "In honour preferring one another." Let young children and boys take their places in the Oratory, or at table, with all due discipline. In other places also, wherever they may be, let them be under proper care and discipline, until they come to the age of understanding.


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


In the territory of Langres, the death of St. Bernard, first abbot of Clairvaux, illustrious for virtues, learning, and miracles. He was declared and confirmed doctor of the Universal Church by the Sovereign Pontiff, Pius VIII.


At Rome, the death of St. Pius X, pope and confessor, who championed the integrity of the faith and the liberty of the Church, and was renowned for his religious zeal. His feastday is celebrated on the 3rd of September.


On Mount Senario in Tuscany, the birthday of St. Manetto, confessor, one of the seven founders of the Order of the Servites of the Blessed Virgin Mary, who died as he was repeating a hymn to her. His feast, with that of his companions, is kept on the 12th of February.


In Judea, the holy prophet Samuel, whose holy relics (as is related by St. Jerome) were taken to Constantinople by Emperor Arcadius, and deposited near Septimum.


In Cyprus, St. Lucius, senator, who was converted to the faith on seeing the constancy of Theodore, bishop of Cyrene, during his martyrdom. He also converted the governor Dignian, with whom he set out for Cyprus, where, seeing other Christians crowned for the confession of the Lord, he offered himself voluntarily, and merited the same crown of martyrdom by beheading.


In Thrace, in the time of the governor Apellian, thirty-seven holy martyrs, who had their hands and feet cut off for the faith of Christ, and were cast into a burning furnace.


Also, the holy martyrs Severus, and the centurion Memnon, who, suffering the same kind of death, went victoriously to heaven.


At Cordova, during the persecution of the Arabs, the holy martyrs Leovigild and Christopher, monks, who were thrust into prison for the defence of the Christian faith, and soon after, being beheaded and cast into the fire, thus obtained the palm of martyrdom.


In the island of Hermoutier, St. Philibert, abbot.


At Rome, blessed Porphyry, a man of God, who instructed the holy martyr Agapitus in the faith and doctrine of Christ.


At Chinon, St. Maximus, confessor, disciple of the blessed bishop Martin.


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 August 20:


CHAPTER LXIV
Of the Appointment of the Abbot


In the appointing of an Abbot, let this principle always be observed, that he be made Abbot whom all the brethren with one consent in the fear of God, or even a small part of the community with more wholesome counsel, shall elect. Let him who is to be appointed be chosen for the merit of his life and the wisdom of his doctrine, even though he should be the last in order in the community. But if all the brethren with one accord (which God forbid) should elect a man willing to acquiesce in their evil habits, and these in some way come to the knowledge of the Bishop to whose diocese that place belongs, or of the Abbots or neighbouring Christians, let them not suffer the consent of these wicked men to prevail, but appoint a worthy steward over the house of God, knowing that for this they shall receive a good reward, if they do it with a pure intention and for the love of God, as, on the other hand, they will sin if they neglect it.


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


The festival of St. Jane Frances Fremiot de Chantal, foundress of the Order of Nuns of the Visitation of St. Mary, whose birthday is commemorated on the 13th of December.


At Rome, in the Agro Verano, St. Cyriaca, widow and martyr. In the persecution of Valerian, after devoting herself and all her goods in the service of the saints, she gave up her life by suffering martyrdom for Christ.


In Gevaudan, St. Privatus, bishop and martyr, who suffered in the persecution of Valerian and Gallienus.


At Salona in Dalmatia, St. Anastasius, a law officer, who was converted to the faith by seeing the fortitude with which blessed Agapitus bore his torments, and being put to death by order of Emperor Aurelian for confessing the name of Christ, went to our Lord, a martyr.


In Sardinia, the birthday of the holy martyrs Luxorius, Cisellus, and Camerinus, who were put to the sword in the persecution of Diocletian, under the governor Delphius.


On the same day, the holy martyrs Bononus and Maximian.


At Fundi in Campania, St. Paternus, a martyr, who came from Alexandria to Rome to visit the tomb of the apostles. Thence he retired to the neighbourhood of Fundi, where, being seized by the tribune while he was burying the bodies of the martyrs, he died in captivity.


At Edessa in Syria, during the persecution of Maximian, the holy martyrs Bassa, and her sons Theogonius, Agapius, and Fidelis, whom their pious mother exhorted to martyrdom and sent before her bearing their crowns. Being herself beheaded, she joyfully followed them and shared their victory.


At Verona, St. Euprepius, bishop and confessor.


Also, St. Quadratus, bishop.


In Auvergne in France, St. Sidonius, bishop, noted for learning and holiness.


At Siena in Tuscany, blessed Bernard Ptolemy, abbot and founder of the Congregation of Olivetans.


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