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 March 11:


CHAPTER XXXIII
Whether Monks ought to have anything of their own


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


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


At Rome, St. Gregory, pope and eminent doctor of the Church, who on account of his illustrious deeds and the conversion of the English to the faith of Christ, was surnamed the Great, and called the Apostle of England.


In the same place, the death of St. Innocent I, pope and confessor. His feast is celebrated on the 28th of July.


Also at Rome, St. Mamilian, martyr.


At Nicomedia, St. Egdunus, priest, and seven others, who, one by one, on successive days, were strangled in order to terrify those who remained.


In the same city, the passion of the martyr St. Peter, chamberlain to Emperor Diocletian. For openly complaining of the atrocious torments inflicted upon the martyrs, he was, by order of the emperor, first suspended and for a long time scourged, then had salt and vinegar poured on his wounds, and finally was burned on a grate over a slow fire. Thus did he become a true heir of St. Peter's name and faith.


At Constantinople, St. Theophanes, who gave up great riches to embrace the poverty of the monastic state. The impious Leo the Armenian kept him in prison for two years because of his veneration of sacred images, and later sent him into Thrace in exile. There, overwhelmed with afflictions, but famous for miracles, death came upon him.


At Capua, St. Bernard, 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 March 12:


CHAPTER XXXIV
Whether all ought alike to receive what is needful


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


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

At Cordova in Spain, the holy martyrs Ruderic, priest, and Solomon.


At Nicomedia, the birthday of the holy martyrs Macedonius, Patricia, his wife, and his daughter Modesta.


At Nicaea in Bithynia, the holy martyrs Theusetas and Horres, his son; Theodore, Nymphodora, Mark, and Arabia, who were all burned to death for Christ.


At Hermopolis in Egypt, the martyr St. Sabinus, who suffered many torments, and at last completed his martyrdom by being cast into a river.


In Persia, St. Christina, virgin and martyr.


At Camerino, St. Ansovinus, bishop and confessor.


In Thebais, the death of St. Euphrasia, virgin.


At Constantinople, the transferral of the body of St. Nicephorus, bishop of that city, and confessor. The body was returned from the island of Propontis in the Proconnesus, where his death occurred on the 5th of June while in exile for his reverence of sacred images. He was buried with honour by Bishop Methodius in the Church of the Holy Apostles on this the anniversary day of his exile.


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 March 13:


CHAPTER XXXV
Of the Weekly Servers in the Kitchen


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


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


At Rome, in the Veranian Field, St. Leo, bishop and martyr.


Also at Rome, the birthday of forty-seven holy martyrs who were baptized by the apostle St. Peter while in the Mamertine Prison with St. Paul his fellow apostle. After an imprisonment of nine months, they all fell by the sword of Nero for their generous confession of faith.


In the province of Valeria, two saintly monks, who were hanged on a tree by the Lombards, and although dead, were heard singing psalms even by their enemies.


In the same persecution, a deacon of the church of Marsico who was beheaded for the confession of faith.


In Africa, the holy martyrs Peter and Aphrodisius, who received the crown of martyrdom in the Vandal persecution.


At Carrhae in Mesopotamia, the patrician St. Eutychius and his companions, who were killed by Evelid, king of Arabia, for the confession of the faith.


At Halberstadt in Germany, the death of blessed Queen Matilda, mother of Emperor Otto I, renowned for humility and patience.


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 March 14:


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


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


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


At Caesarea in Cappadocia, the martyrdom of St. Longinus, the soldier who is said to have pierced our Lord's side with a lance.


The same day, the birthday of St. Aristobulus, a disciple of the apostles, who completed by martyrdom a life spent in preaching the Gospel.


In the Hellespont, St. Menignus, a dyer, who suffered under Decius.


In Egypt, St. Nicander, martyr, who sought diligently for the remains of the holy martyrs, and thus merited to be made a martyr himself, under Emperor Diocletian.


At Cordova in Spain, St. Leocritia, virgin and martyr. She suffered various cruel tortures and was beheaded for the faith of Christ during the Arabian persecution.


At Thessalonica, St. Matrona, servant of a Jewess, who, worshipping Christ secretly, and stealing away daily to pray in the church, was detected by her mistress and subjected to many trials. Being at last beaten to death with large clubs, she gave up her pure soul to God in confessing Christ.


At Rieti, the bishop St. Probus, at whose death the martyrs Juvenal and Eleutherius were present.


At Vienna in Austria, St. Clement Mary Hofbauer, a priest of the Congregation of the Most Holy Redeemer, renowned for his great devotion in promoting the glory of God and the salvation of souls, and in extending that order. He was canonized by Pope Pius X.


At Capua, the monk St. Speciosus,, whose soul his brother saw being taken into heaven, as is recorded by Pope St. Gregory.


At Pairs, the birthday of St. Louise de Marillac, a widow of Le Gras, co-founder with St. Vincent de Paul of the Society of the Daughters of Charity. Outstanding for her virtues and miracles, her name was inscribed on the roll of the saints by Pope Pius XI.


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 March 15:


CHAPTER XXXVI
Of the Sick Brethren


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


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


At Rome the martyrdom of the deacon St. Cyriacus, who, after a long imprisonment, had melted pitch poured over him, was stretched on the rack, had his limbs pulled with ropes, was beaten with clubs, and finally was beheaded by order of Maximian, together with Largus, Smaragdus, and twenty others. Their feast, however, is kept on the 8th of August, the day on which these twenty-three martyrs were exhumed by blessed Pope Marcellus and reverently entombed.


At Aquileia, in the time of Emperor Numerian and the governor Beronius, the birthday of the holy bishop Hilary, and the deacon Tatian, who were martyred with Felix, Largus, and Denis, after being subjected to the rack and other tortures.


In Lycaonia, the holy martyr Papas, who was scourged for the Christian faith, had his flesh torn with iron hooks, and was compelled to walk with shoes pierced with nails, and was finally bound to a barren tree. In leaving this world to go to God, he rendered this same tree fruitful.


At Anazarbum in Cilicia, under the governor Marcian, the martyr St. Julian, who was a long time tortured, then put into a sack with serpents, and cast into the sea.


In the territory of Canada, Saints John de Brebeuf, Gabriel Lalemant, Anthony Daniel, Charles Garnier, and Noel Chabanel, priests of the Society of Jesus, who in the mission of the Hurons, on this and other days, after many labours and most cruel torments, bravely underwent death for Christ.


At Ravenna, St. Agapitus, bishop and confessor.


At Cologne, St. Heribert, bishop, celebrated for sanctity.


In Auvergne, the death of St. Patrick, bishop.


In Syria, St. Abraham, hermit, whose life has been written by the blessed deacon Ephrem.


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 March 16:


CHAPTER XXXVII
Of Old Men and Children


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


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


At Downpatrick in Ireland, the birthday of St. Patrick, bishop and confessor, who was the first to preach Christ in that country, and who became illustrious by great miracles and virtues.


At Jerusalem, St. Joseph of Arimathea, noble senator and disciple of our Lord,. who took his Body down from the Cross and buried it in his own new sepulchre.


At Rome, the Saints Alexander and Theodore, martyrs.


At Alexandria, the commemoration of many holy martyrs, who, being seized by the worshippers of Serapis, and refusing constantly to adore that idol, were cruelly murdered. Emperor Theodosius, who issued the order, afterwards commanded that the temple of Serapis should be destroyed.


At Constantinople, St. Paul, martyr, who was burned alive by Constantine Copronymus, for defending the veneration of sacred images.


At Chalons in France, St. Agricola, bishop.


At Nivelle in Brabant, St. Gertrude, a virgin of noble birth. Because she despised the world, and during her whole life practised all kinds of good works, she deserved to have Christ for her spouse in heaven.


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 March 17:


CHAPTER XXXVIII
Of the Weekly Reader


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


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


At Jerusalem, St. Cyril, bishop, who suffered many injuries from the Arians for the faith. Often exiled from his church, he at length rested in peace with a great reputation for sanctity. A magnificent testimony of the purity of his faith is given by the first ecumenical Council of Constantinople in a letter to Pope Damasus.


At Caesarea in Palestine, the birthday of the blessed Bishop Alexander, who, from his own city in Cappadocia, where he was bishop, coming to Jerusalem to visit the holy places, took upon himself, by divine revelation, the government of that church in place of the aged Narcissus. Sometime afterwards, when he had become venerable by his age and gray hair, he was led to Caesarea and shut up in prison, where he completed his martyrdom for the confession of Christ during the persecution of Decius.


At Augsburg, St. Narcissus, bishop, who was the first to preach the Gospel in the Tyrol. Afterwards, setting out for Spain, he converted many to the faith of Christ at Gerona, and there, along with the deacon Felix, he received the palm of martyrdom during the persecution of Diocletian.


At Nicomedia, ten thousand holy martyrs, who were put to the sword for the confession of Christ.


In the same place, the holy martyrs Trophimus and Eucarpius.


In England, St. Edward, king, who was assassinated by order of his treacherous stepmother, and became celebrated for many miracles.


At Lucca in Tuscany, the birthday of the holy bishop Fridian, who was illustrious by the power of working miracles.


At Mantua, St. Anselm, bishop and confessor.


At Cagliari in Sardinia, St. Salvatore of Orte, confessor, a member of the Order of Friars Minor, who was numbered among the heavenly saints by Pope Pius XI, because he was graced with every virtue and had been given by God the gift of performing outstanding 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 March 18:


CHAPTER XXXIX
Of the Measure of Food


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


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


In Judea, the birthday of St. Joseph, spouse of the Most Blessed Virgin Mary. Pope Pius IX, yielding to the desires and prayers of the whole Catholic world, declared him Patron of the Universal Church.


At Sorrento, the holy martyrs Quinctus, Quinctilla, Quartilla, Mark, and nine others.


At Nicomedia, St. Pancharius, a Roman, who apostatized for the sake of Emperor Diocletian, but by the persuasion of his mother and sister immediately returned to the true faith. Because of his subsequent constancy in it, he was beaten with clubs and beheaded, obtaining thus the crown of martyrdom.


The same day, the holy Bishops Apollonius and Leontius.


At Ghent in Flanders, Saints Landoald, a Roman priest, and the deacon Amantius, who were sent to preach the Gospel by Pope St. Martin. They faithfully fulfilled this apostolic appointment, and after their deaths became renowned for their miracles.


In the city of Pinna, the birthday of blessed John, a man of great sanctity, who came from Syria into Italy, and there founded a monastery. After being the spiritual guide for many of God's servants for forty-four years, he rested in peace.


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 March 19:


CHAPTER XL
Of the Measure of Drink


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


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


In Judea, St. Joachim, the father of the Most Blessed Virgin Mary, Mother of God. His feast day is on the 16th of August.


In Asia, the birthday of St. Archippus, fellow-labourer of the apostle St. Paul, who is mentioned by him in his epistles to Philemon and the Colossians.


In Syria, the holy martyrs Paul, Cyril, Eugene, and four others.


On the same day, the Saints Photina, a Samaritan, and her sons Joseph and Victor; also, Sebastian, a military officer, Anatolius, and Photius; Photides, Parasceves, and Cyriaca, sisters, all of whom were put to death for the confession of the faith.


At Amisus in Paphlagonia, seven holy women, Alexandria, Claudia, Euphrasia, Matrona, Juliana, Euphemia, and Theodosia, who were put to death for the confession of the faith. They were followed by Dephuta and her sister.


At Apollonia, Bishop St. Nicetas, who died in exile where he had been sent for upholding the veneration of sacred images.


In the monastery of Fontanelle in France, St. Wulfran, bishop of Sens, who resigned his bishopric, and after having performed miracles, departed out of this life.


In England, the death of St. Cuthbert, bishop of Lindisfarne, who from his childhood until his death was renowned for good works and miracles.


At Sienna in Tuscany, blessed Ambrose of the Order of Preachers, celebrated for sanctity, eloquence, 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 March 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-March 21st
Roman Martyrology-March 21st-on this date in various years-


At Monte Cassino, the birthday of the holy abbot St. Benedict, who restored and wonderfully extended the monastic discipline in the West, where it had almost been destroyed. His life, brilliant in virtues and miracles, was written by Pope St. Gregory.


At Catania, St. Birillus, who was consecrated bishop by St. Peter. After converting many gentiles to the faith, he died in extreme old age.


At Alexandria, under Emperor Constantine and the governor Philagrius, the commemoration of the holy martyrs who were murdered by the Arians and the heathens, being attacked by them while they were in church on Good Friday.


On the same day, the holy martyrs Philemon and Domninus.


At Alexandria, blessed Serapion, anchoret and bishop of Thmuis, a man of great virtue, who was driven into exile by the enraged Arians, where he departed to heaven.


In the territory of Lyons, St. Lupicinus, abbot, whose life was brilliant with the glory of holiness and miracles.


In the village of Ranft, near Sachseln in Switzerland, St. Nicholas of Flue, a family man who became an anchoret, famed for his most ardent penítence and contempt for the world, and known by the Swiss as the father of the fatherland. He was numbered among the saints by Pope Pius XII.


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




At Narbonne in France, the birthday of the bishop St. Paul, a disciple of the apostles. He is said to have been the proconsul Sergius Paulus, who was baptized by the blessed apostle Paul, and left at Narbonne, where he was raised to the episcopal dignity when the apostle went to Spain. Having zealously discharged the office of preaching and having performed miracles, he departed to heaven.


At Terracina, St. Epaphroditus, a disciple of the apostles, who was consecrated bishop of that city by the blessed apostle Peter.


At Ancyra, under Julian the Apostate, St. Basil, priest and martyr, who gave up his soul to God after having endured grievous torments.


At Carthage, the archdeacon St. Octavian, and many thousands of martyrs, who were slain by the Vandals for the Catholic faith.


In Africa, the holy martyrs Saturninus and nine others.


In Galatia, the birthday of the holy martyrs Callinica and Basilissa.


At Rome, the birthday of Pope St. Zachary, who governed the Church of God with vigilance, and at last, renowned for miracles, rested in peace.


At Carthage, St. Deogratias, bishop of Carthage, who ransomed many captives taken from that city by the Vandals, and who performed many other good works, after which he went to rest in the Lord.


At Osimo, in Piceno, the bishop St. Benvenuto.


At Rome, the widow St. Lea, whose virtues and happy death are related by St. Jerome.


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


In Africa, the holy martyrs Victorian, proconsul of Carthage, and two brothers from Aquaregia. Also two merchants, both named Frementius, who (as Bishop Victor Africanus relates) were subjected to the most atrocious torments for their courageous confession of the Catholic faith, and who were gloriously crowned martyrs under the Arian king Hunneric, during the persecution of the Vandals.


Also in Africa, St. Fidelis, martyr.


In the same place, St. Felix and twenty other martyrs.


At Caesarea in Palestine, the holy martyrs Nicon and ninety-nine others.


Likewise, the crowning of the holy martyrs Domitius, Pelagia, Aquila, Eparchius, and Theodosia.


At Lima in Peru, Archbishop St. Turibius, through whose labours both faith and ecclesiastical discipline were spread through America.


At Antioch, the priest St. Theodulus.


At Barcelona in Spain, the priest St. Joseph Oriol, pastor of the church of St. Mary of the Kings, famous for every virtue, especially mortification of the body, his rule of poverty, and his love towards the poor and the sick. Because he was known for his miracles both in life and after death, Pope Pius X placed his name in the number of the saints.


At Caesarea, St. Julian, confessor.


In Campania, St. Benedict, monk, who was shut up in a burning furnace by the Goths, but who was found uninjured the next day.


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


The Feast of St. Gabriel Archangel, who was sent by God to announce the Incarnation of the Divine Word.


At Rome, the priest St. Epigmenius, who completed his martyrdom by the sword in the persecution of Diocletian, under the judge Turpius.


Also at Rome, in the time of Julian the Apostate, the passion of blessed Pigmenius, a priest, who was killed for the faith of Christ by being drowned in the Tiber.


At Rome, the holy martyrs Mark and Timothy, who were crowned with martyrdom under Emperor Antoninus.


At Caesarea in Palestine, the birthday of the holy martyrs Timolaus, Denis, Pausides, Romulus, Alexander, another Alexander, Agapius, and another Denis. They merited the crown of life by being beheaded in the persecution of Diocletian under the governor Urban.


In Morocco, the birthday of the saintly brothers Romulus and Secundus, who suffered for the faith of Christ.


At Trent, the martyrdom of the boy St. Simeon, who was barbarously murdered by the Jews, but who was afterwards glorified by many miracles.


At Synnadas in Phrygia, Bishop St. Agapitus.


At Brescia, the bishop St. Latinus.


In Syria, St. Seleucus, confessor.


In Sweden, the virgin St. Catherine, daughter of St. Bridget.


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


The Annunciation of the Most Blessed Virgin Mary, Mother of God.


At Jerusalem, the commemoration of the good thief who confessed Christ on the cross, and who deserved to hear from him these words: "This day shalt thou be with me in paradise."


At Rome, St. Quirinus, martyr, who after losing his possessions, suffering imprisonment in a dark dungeon, and being cruelly scourged, was put to death with the sword, and thrown into the Tiber. The Christians found his body on the island of Lycaónia (which was thereafter called St. Bartholomew's), and buried it in the Pontian cemetery.


Also at Rome, two hundred and sixty-two holy martyrs.


At Sirmium, the martyrdom of St. Irenaeus, bishop.  In the time of Emperor Maximian, under the governor Probus, after undergoing bitter torments and a painful imprisonment for may days, he was beheaded.


At Nicomedia, St. Dula, the servant of a soldier, who was killed for the preservation of her chastity, and deserved the crown of martyrdom.


At Laodicea, St. Pelagius, bishop, who after having endured exile and other afflictions for the Catholic faith under Valens, rested in the Lord.


At Indre, an island in the Loire, Abbot St. Hermeland, whose glorious life was commended by outstanding miracles.


At Pistoia, the holy confessors Barontius and Desiderius.


At Montefiascone, St. Lucia Filippini, founder of the Institute of Pious Teachers, from whose surname they are known as Filippines. Having merited greatly by the Christian education of girls and women, especially of the poor, Pope Pius XI enrolled her among 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 March 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-March 26th
Roman Martyrology-March 26th-on this date in various years-


At Rome, on the Via Lavicana, St. Castulus, martyr, chamberlain in the palace of the emperor. For harbouring Christians, he was three times suspended by the hands, three times cited before the tribunals. As he persevered in the confession of the Lord, he was thrown into a pit, covered with a mass of sand, and thus obtained the crown of martyrdom.


Also at Rome, the crowning of the holy martyrs Peter, Marcian, Jovinus, Thecla, Cassian, and others.


At Pentopolis in Libya, the birthday of the holy martyrs Theodore, bishop, the deacon Irenæus, and the lectors Serapion and Ammonius.


At Sirmio, the holy martyrs Montanus, priest, and Maxima, who were drowned in a river for the faith of Christ.


Likewise, the holy martyrs Quadratus, Theodosius, Emmanuel, and forty others.


At Alexandria, the holy martyrs Eutychius and others, who died by the sword for the Catholic faith, in the time of Constantine, under the Arian bishop George.


The same day, St. Ludger, bishop of Munster, who preached the Gospel to the Saxons.


At Saragossa in Spain, St. Braulio, bishop and confessor.


At Treves, St. Felix, bishop.


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