January 13^th

This Day, the Thirteenth Day of January
 

Saint Hilary, bishop and doctor of the Church, who, having been raised to the See of Poitiers in Aquitaine, under the Emperor Constantius who was devoted to the Arian heresy, vigorously defended by his writings the Nicene faith concerning the Trinity and the divinity of Christ; wherefore he was exiled for four years to Phrygia. He also composed very famous commentaries on the Psalms and on the Gospel of Matthew.

2.  Singidunum in Moesia, of the holy martyrs Hermylus and Stratonice, who, after cruel tortures under the Emperor Licinius, were drowned in the river Istrus (the lower Danube).

3.  Trier in Belgic France, of Saint Agricius, bishop, who converted the palace given as a gift by Saint Helena into a church.

4.  Likewise at Reims in Belgica, the burial of Saint Remigius, bishop, who, after having initiated King Clovis to the sacred font of baptism and to the sacraments of the faith, converted the people of the Franks to Christ; and, having passed more than sixty years in the episcopate, died, distinguished for his holiness.

5.  Glasgow in Scotland, Saint Kentigern, bishop and abbot, who established his seat there and is said to have founded a great community of monks according to the pattern of the early Church.

6.  Capitolias in Batanea, of Saint Peter, priest and martyr, who, having been accused before Walid, prince of the Saracens, because he publicly taught the faith of Christ along the roads, had his tongue, hands, and feet cut off and was affixed to a cross, thus he fulfilled the martyrdom which he had ardently desired.

7.  Córdoba in the region of Andalusia in Spain, of the holy martyrs Gumesindus, priest, and Servideus, monk, who, having professed themselves Christians before the Moorish rulers and judges, died for the faith of Christ

8.  In the monastery of Ilbenstadt in Germany, of Saint Godfrey, who, being count of Cappenberg, willed that his castle be transformed into a monastery against the will of his relatives; and, having taken up the canonical habit, devoted strenuous work to the poor and the sick.

9.  Near Huy in the region of Liège, of Saint Lutgardis, who, a widow, dedicated herself to the care of lepers and, having finally enclosed herself near them, chose that way of life.

10.  Milan in Lombardy, blessed Veronica of Binasco Negroni, virgin, who, having entered the monastery of Saint Martha under the Rule of Saint Augustine, ascended to the highest contemplation.

11.  In the city of Nam Dinh in Tonkin, of the holy martyrs Dominic Phạm Trọng (An) Kham, Luke (Cai) Thin, his son, and Joseph Phạm Trọng (Cai) Ta, who, under the emperor Tự Đức, preferred to undergo tortures and death rather than to trample upon the cross.

12.  In the internment camp of Dachau near Munich in Bavaria, Germany, blessed Emil Szramek, priest and martyr, who, a Pole by nation, during the storm of war was inhumanely deported to this camp for having defended the faith of Christ before his persecutors, and, tortured, died.

January 14^th

This Day, the Fourteenth Day of January

1. Commemoration of Saint Potitus, martyr, who, having suffered many things at Sardica in Dacia, is said finally to have attained martyrdom by the sword.

2.  Antioch in Syria, Saint Glycerius, deacon and martyr.

3.  Nola in Campania, Saint Felix, priest, who, as Saint Paulinus recounts, during furious persecutions, was thrown into prison, endured the most bitter tortures, and, peace having at last been restored, returned to his people, withdrawing into poverty until old age, an invincible confessor of the faith.

4.  Commemoration of the holy monks, who at Raithu and on Mount Sinai were slain for the faith of Christ.

5.  Iberia beyond the Black Sea, Saint Nino, who, though captured as a Christian, by the holiness of her life gained such reverence and admiration from all that she drew the queen—whose son she had healed through her prayers—the king, and the entire nation to the faith of Christ.

6.  Gabala in France, Saint Firminus, bishop.

7.  Clermont in Aquitaine, Saint Euphrasius, bishop, whose hospitality is praised by Saint Gregory of Tours.

8.  Milan in Liguria, the death (or burial) of Saint Datius, bishop, who, in the controversy over the Three Chapters, defended the position of Pope Vigilius, whom he accompanied to Constantinople, where he died.

9.  Astigi in Báetica, Saint Fulgentius, bishop, brother of Saints Leander, Isidore, and Florentina, to whom Isidore dedicated the treatise “On the Ecclesiastical Offices.”

10.  Tagliacozzo in Abruzzo, blessed Odo of Novara, priest of the Carthusian Order.

11.  Udine in Venetia, blessed Odoric of Portu Naónis Mattiuzzi, priest of the Order of Friars Minor, who journeyed through the regions of the Tartars, Indians, and Chinese as far as the imperial city of the Chinese, Khanbaliq, widely proclaiming the Gospel and bringing many to the faith of Christ.

12.  Batavia in Suriname blessed Peter Donders, priest of the Congregation of the Most Holy Redeemer, who with tireless charity cared for lepers, both in body and soul.

January 15^th

This Day, the Fifteenth Day of January

1.  Anagni in Latium, Saint Secundina, virgin and martyr.

2.  Constantinople, Saint John Calybites, who, it is said, lived for some time hidden in a part of his father's house and later in a “kalyba,” wholly devoted to contemplation and hidden even from the sight of his own parents, who recognized him only after his death by the golden codex of the Gospels which they had given to their son.

3.  the monastery of Cluain Credal in Ireland, Saint Ita, virgin, foundress of the same monastery.

4.  Rieti in the Sabine region, commemoration of Saint Probus, bishop, of whom Saint Gregory the Great composed a eulogy.

5.  Glanfeuil on the Loire in the territory of Anjou in France, Saint Maurus, abbot.

6.  In the region of Rouergue, also in France, Saint Tarsicia, virgin and martyr.

7.  Ham in Brabant, Saint Ablebert, also called Emebert, bishop of Cambrai.

8.  Chartres in Neustria, Saint Malard, bishop.

9.  In the valley of Anaunia in the territory of Trent, Saint Romedius, hermit, who, having given his goods to the Church, led a life of penance in the wilderness which is still called by his name.

10.  Lyon in France, the passing of Saint Bonitus, bishop of the Arverni (Clermont), who, having been prefect of Marseille, was elevated to the episcopate in place of his brother Saint Avitus. Ten years later, having resigned his office, he lived at the monastery of Manliole and, returning from a pilgrimage to Rome, died at Lyon.

11.  Armo near Reggio Calabria, Saint Arsenius, hermit, distinguished for prayer and austerity.

12.  the town of Saint-Gilles in Provence, blessed Peter of Castelnau, priest and martyr, who, having entered the Cistercian monastery of Fontfroide, was appointed by Pope Innocent III to preach peace and instruct in the faith in Provence, but was pierced by a lance by heretics and died.

13.  Pievi in Umbria, blessed James, called “the Almsgiver,” who, being skilled in law, served as advocate for the poor and oppressed.

14.  In the region of Gualdo, also in Umbria, blessed Angelus, hermit.

15.  In the city of Fuan in the province of Fujian in China, Saint Francis Fernandez de Capillas, priest of the Order of Preachers and martyr, who, having brought the name of Christ to the Philippine Islands and to Fujian, was imprisoned during the Tartar persecution and finally beheaded.

16.  In the village of Steyl in the Netherlands, Saint Arnold Janssen, priest, who founded the Society of the Divine Word for the propagation of the faith in missions.

16.  Berlin in Germany, blessed Nikolaus Gross, father of a family and martyr, who, deeply engaged in social concerns, resolutely opposed the godless regime hostile to human dignity and religion, so that he might not act against the commandments of God. For this he was imprisoned and, through the agony of hanging, became a partaker in the victory of Christ.

January 16^th

This Day, the Sixteenth Day of January
 

1.  Rome, in the cemetery of Priscilla on the Via Salaria Nova, the burial of Saint Marcellus I, Pope, who, as Saint Damasus recounts, was a true shepherd, grievously harassed by the lapsed for refusing to relax the penance he had imposed. Denounced to the tyrant by these same individuals, he was driven from his homeland and died in exile.

2.  Aulon in Illyricum, Saint Danactes, martyr.

3.  Rhinocorura in Egypt, Saint Melas, bishop, who, under the Arian emperor Valens, suffered exile for the orthodox faith and rested in peace.

4.  Arles in the Province of France, Saint Honoratus, bishop, who established the famous monastery on the island of Lérins and assumed the governance of the Church of Arles.

5.  Tarantaise in Viennese France, Saint James, bishop, disciple of Saint Honoratus of Lérins.

6.  Oderzo in Venetia, Saint Titian, bishop.

7.  In the countryside of Tours, in Lyon France, the commemoration of Saint Leobatius, abbot, who, placed as superior by his master Saint Ursus in the recently founded monastery of Senaparia, persevered in great holiness and old age.

8.  In the region of Dombe in the territory of Lyon in France, Saint Trivier, priest, monk, and finally hermit.

9.  Mézeray on the River Authie in France, Saint Fursey, abbot, who first lived in Ireland, then in England, and finally in France, where he founded the monastery of Lagny.

10.  Bagno in Flaminia, Saint Joanna, virgin, who, having been received into the Order of Camaldolese, shone especially by her obedience and humility.

11.  the city of Marrakesh in Mauretania, the passion of the holy martyrs Berard, Otto, Peter, priests, and Accursius and Adjutus, religious, of the Order of Friars Minor, who were sent by Saint Francis to preach the Gospel of Christ to the Muslims. They were captured at Seville, taken to Marrakesh, and by order of the prince of the Moors, were slain by the sword.

12.  Kandy on the island of Sri Lanka in the Indian Ocean, blessed Joseph Vaz, priest of the Congregation of the Oratory, who, with admirable zeal, tirelessly confirmed Catholics scattered in the countryside in the faith and diligently preached the Gospel of salvation.

13.  Brescia in Italy, blessed Joseph Anthony Tovini, who, as a teacher, founded many Christian schools and promoted the restoration of public works, always offering in his endeavors examples of prayer and virtue.

14.  Valencia in Spain, blessed Joanna Mary Condesa Lluch, virgin, who, with prudent charity and the love of sacrifice, gave herself with humble labor to the aid of the poor, children, and working girls, and for their care and education founded the Congregation of the Handmaids of the Immaculate Conception, Protectresses of Working Women.

January 17^th

This Day, the Seventeenth Day of January
 

Memorial of Saint Anthony, abbot, who, having been orphaned of his parents, received the evangelical precepts, distributed all his goods to the poor, and withdrew into the solitude of the Thebaid in Egypt, where he began to lead an ascetic life. He labored to strengthen the Church, supported the confessors of the faith during the persecution under the emperor Diocletian, and assisted Saint Athanasius against the Arians. So many disciples did he have that he was called the father of monks.

2.  In Cappadocia, the holy martyrs Speusippus, Eleusippus, and Melasippus, brothers, and their grandmother Leonilla.

3.  In Osrhoene, the commemoration of Saint Julian, ascetic, surnamed by the locals Sabas, that is, the old man, who, although he detested the noise of the city, left his beloved solitude for a time in order diligently to refute the followers of the Arian heresy at Antioch.

4.  Die in the region of the Vocontii in Lyon France, Saint Marcellus, bishop, who, as defender of his city and for preserving the Catholic faith, was driven into exile by the Arian king Euric.

5.  Bourges in Aquitaine, Saint Sulpicius, surnamed the Pious, bishop, who, having been promoted from the royal court to the episcopate, held nothing dearer than the care of the poor.

6.  In Bavaria, blessed Gamelbert, priest, who gave his goods to Utho, whom he had received from the sacred font so that the monastery of Metten might be founded.

7.  Forcalquier in the Province of France, Saint Roseline, prioress of the Charterhouse of Celle-Robaud, who shone with self-denial, fasting from food and sleep, and great austerity.

8.  In the city of Tocolatlán in Mexico, Saint Januarius Sánchez Delgadillo, priest and martyr in the Mexican persecution.

January 18^th

This Day, the Eighteenth Day of January
 

1.  Carthage, the holy martyrs Successus, Paul, and Lucius, bishops, who took part in a council held in that city and suffered martyrdom under the emperor Decius.

2.  Nicaea in Bithynia, the holy martyrs Cosconius, Zeno, and Melanippus.

3.  Foix in Narbonese France, the passing of Saint Volusian, bishop of Tours, who, taken captive by the Goths, gave back his spirit to God in exile.

4.  Rome, the commemoration of Saint Prisca, in whose name a basilica was dedicated to God on the Aventine Hill.

5.  In the monastery of Lure in Burgundy, Saint Deicolus, abbot, who, an Irishman by birth and disciple of Saint Columban, is said to have founded that monastery.

6.  Ferrara in Emilia, blessed Beatrice of Este, nun, who, after the death of her husband and renouncing the principality of the world, devoted herself to God in a monastery she had founded under the Rule of Saint Benedict.

7.  Buda in Hungary, Saint Margaret, virgin, daughter of King Béla IV, who, being vowed to God by her parents for the liberation of their homeland from the Tartars and entrusted as a child to the nuns of the Order of Preachers, made religious profession at the age of twelve and gave herself entirely to the Lord, striving diligently to become like Christ crucified.

8.  Cremona in Lombardy, blessed Facius, a goldsmith, who migrated there from his native Verona and was greatly devoted to penance, pilgrimages, and the consolation of the sick.

9.  Morbegno in the Alps, blessed Andrew Grego of Peschiera, priest of the Order of Preachers, who traveled on foot throughout the entire region, living simply among the poor and winning the hearts of all with brotherly charity.

10.  L’Aquila in the Abruzzo, blessed Christina (Mattea) Ciccarelli, virgin of the Order of Saint Augustine.

11.  Braunsberg in Prussia, blessed Regina Protmann, virgin, who, moved by love for the poor, devoted herself intensely to their service and founded the Congregation of the Sisters of Saint Catherine.

12.  Avrillé near Angers in France, the blessed Martyrs Felicité Pricet, Monique Pichery, Charlotte Lucas, and Victoire Gusteau, who, during the turmoil of the French Revolution, were shot out of hatred for the Christian religion.

13.  Cascia in Italy, blessed Maria Teresa (Maria Giovanna) Fasce, abbess of a monastery of the Order of Saint Augustine, who joined asceticism and contemplation with devoted care for pilgrims and the local poor.

January 19^th

This Day, the Nineteenth Day of January
 

1.  Smyrna in Asia, the passion of Saint Germanicus, martyr of Philadelphia, who, in the time of the emperors Marcus Antoninus and Lucius Aurelius, was a disciple of Saint Polycarp, and preceded him in martyrdom. Although in the beauty of early youth, he was condemned by the judge, and by the power of God cast out fear of bodily weakness, and willingly provoked the beast prepared for him.

2.  Spoleto in Umbria, Saint Pontian, martyr, who, in the time of the emperor Antoninus, is said to have been severely scourged for Christ, and was finally pierced by the sword.

3. On the Via Cornelia, thirteen miles from the city of Rome, in the cemetery ad Nymphas, the holy martyrs Marius, Martha, Audifax, and Abachum.

4. Commemoration of Saint Macarius the Great, priest and abbot of the monastery of Scetis in Egypt, who, dead to the world and to himself, lived for God alone, which he also taught his disciples.

5. Commemoration of Saint Macarius, surnamed the Alexandrian, priest and abbot near Mount Scetis in Egypt.

6.  Laus Pompeia in Liguria, the commemoration of Saint Bassian, bishop, who, to defend his flock from the still-flourishing heresy of the Arians, strove vigorously together with  Ambrose of Milan.

7.  Como in Lombardy, SS. Liberata and Faustina, sisters, and virgins, who founded the monastery of  Margaret.

8. In the district of Dunois near Chartres in Neustria, Saint Launomarus, abbot of the monastery of Corbie, which he founded in the wilderness of Pertica.

9.  Ravenna in Flaminia, Saint John, bishop, who, while all Italy was shaken by the Lombard war, provided excellently for the needs of the Church, as attested by Pope Saint Gregory the Great, who sent him the Book of Pastoral Rule.

10.  Rouen in Neustria, Saint Remigius, bishop, brother of King Pepin, who with diligent care ensured that the singing of the Psalms would be modulated in the Roman manner.

11.  Corfu in Greece, Saint Arsenius, bishop, who was a vigilant shepherd of his flock and constant in prayer by night.

12.  Seville in Spain, blessed Marcelo Spínola y Maestre, bishop, who, to promote human society, founded workers’ circles, defended truth and justice, and opened his home to the poor.

January 20^th

This Day, the Twentieth Day of January
 

Saint Fabian, pope and martyr, who, though a layman, was divinely called to the pontificate, and, offering a glorious example of faith and virtue, suffered martyrdom in the persecution of the emperor Decius. Concerning his combat, Saint Cyprian rejoices, for he had borne unimpeachable and outstanding witness in governing the Church. His body was laid to rest at Rome on the Appian Way in the Cemetery of Callistus on this day.

Saint Sebastian, martyr, who, born at Milan, as Saint Ambrose recounts, went to Rome when the persecutions were raging fiercely, and there suffered martyrdom. Thus, in the city to which he had come as a guest, he obtained a home of everlasting immortality. His burial also took place at Rome, in the Catacombs, on this same day.

3.  Antinoë in the Thebaid, Saint Ascla, martyr, who did not fear the threats of the governor, since he had a greater fear of denying Christ After enduring various tortures, he was cast into the river.

4.  Nicaea in Bithynia, Saint Neophytus, martyr.

5.  In Palestine, Saint Euthymius, abbot, who, of Armenian birth and consecrated to God from infancy, went to Jerusalem and, after spending many years in solitude, died in humility and charity, outstanding in the observance of discipline, vigorous and joyful to the end of his life.

6.  Worcester in England, Saint Wulfstan, bishop, who, raised from the cloister to this episcopal see, united monastic customs with pastoral zeal, showing great care for visiting parishes, promoting the building of churches, encouraging learning, and denouncing abuses such as the slave trade.

7.  Coltevalenza in Etruria, blessed Benedict Ricasoli, hermit of the Congregation of Vallumbrosa.

8.  In Finland, Saint Henry, bishop and martyr, who, born in England, took up the governance of the Church of Uppsala and diligently labored to evangelize the Finns; finally, he was cruelly murdered by a man whom he had attempted to correct according to ecclesiastical discipline.

9.  Messina in Sicily, Saint Eustochia Calafato, virgin and abbess of the Order of Saint Clare, who devoted herself zealously to restoring the original discipline of religious life and to fostering the following of Christ in the spirit of Saint Francis.

10.  Seoul in Korea, Saint Stephen Min Kuk-ka, martyr, catechist, who was beheaded in prison for the Christian faith.

11.  Cesaura near Naples in Campania, Italy, blessed Mary Christina of the Immaculate Conception (Adelaide) Brando, virgin, who devoted her life to the Christian education of children and founded the Congregation of the Expiatory Victims of Jesus in the blessed Sacrament, greatly promoting Eucharistic adoration.

12.  In the monastery of Mount Saint Bernard near Leicester in England, blessed Cyprian (Michael) Iwene Tansi, priest of the Cistercian Order, who, born in the territory of Onitsha in Nigeria, embraced the Christian faith in his youth despite family opposition. Ordained a priest, he devoted himself zealously to pastoral care, and later, becoming a monk, he was deemed worthy to complete his holy life with a holy death.

January 21^st

This Day, the Twenty-first Day of January

Memorial of Saint Agnes, virgin and martyr, who, still a young girl, bore the supreme testimony of faith in Rome and consecrated the title of virginity by martyrdom; for she overcame both age and tyrant, gained the greatest admiration among the nations, and acquired even greater glory before God. On this day, the burial of her body is celebrated.

2.  Commemoration of Saint Publius, bishop of Athens, who bore witness to Christ through martyrdom.

3.  Tarragona in Hispania Citerior, the passion of the holy martyrs Fructuosus, bishop, and Augurius and Eulogius, his deacons, who, under the emperors Valerian and Gallienus, after confessing the faith before the procurator Aemilian, were brought into the amphitheater, where, after the bishop had offered a prayer in a clear voice for the peace of the Church in the presence of the faithful, they were thrown into the flames, and kneeling, completed their martyrdom in prayer.

4.  Troyes in Lyon France Saint Patroclus, martyr.

5.  Pavia in Liguria, Saint Epiphanius, bishop, who, during the time of barbarian invasions, labored intensely for the reconciliation of peoples, the redemption of captives, and the restoration of the city itself, which had been destroyed.

6.  In the mountains around Lake Zurich in Switzerland, Saint Meinrad, priest, who, first living a cenobitic life and later as a hermit, was killed by robbers.

7.  On Mount Mercury in Lucania, Saint Zacharias, called “the Angelic,” a master of cenobitic monastic life.

8.  In London, England, blessed Edward Stransham and Nicholas Wheeler, priests and martyrs, who, under Queen Elizabeth I, were condemned to death for being priests and suffered martyrdom at Tyburn.

9.  In London, England, Saint Alban Roe, of the Order of Saint Benedict, and blessed Thomas Green, priests and martyrs, who, under King Charles I, the one after seventeen years in prison, the other after fourteen, both worn out by old age, were hanged together at Tyburn for Christ.

10.  In the monastery of Benigánim in the region of Valencia, Spain, blessed Josefa María of Saint Agnes, virgin, of the Discalced Augustinian Order.

11.  In Valle Guidonis in France, blessed priests Jean-Baptiste Turpin du Cormier and thirteen companions, ¹ martyrs, who, for their steadfast loyalty to the Catholic Church during the French upheaval, were beheaded.

12.  In the region of Daegu in Korea, Saint John Yi Yun-il, martyr, who, a father of a family, farmer, and catechist, remained steadfast in the Christian faith, enduring beatings and dislocations of his limbs, and attained martyrdom with a peaceful spirit by beheading. He was one of the last victims of the great persecution carried out in that nation.

January 22^nd

This Day, the Twenty-second Day of January

Saint Vincent, deacon of Caesaraugusta and martyr, who, in the persecution of Emperor Diocletian, having endured prisons, hunger, the rack, and red-hot plates, flew unconquered to the reward of martyrdom in heaven at Valentia in Carthaginian Spain.

2.  Likewise, the commemoration of Saint Valerius, bishop of Caesaraugusta in Tarraconensian Spain, who took part in the First Council of Elvira and, together with Saint Vincent, was brought to Valencia and sent into exile.

3.  Novara in Liguria, Saint Gaudentius, who is considered the first bishop of that see.

4.  Sergiopolis in Persia, the passion of Saint Anastasius, monk and martyr, who, after many torments which he suffered in Caesarea of Palestine, was afflicted with many punishments by Chosroes, king of the Persians, and, after seventy companions, was suffocated near a river and beheaded.

5.  In the monastery of Romans along the Isère River in the Alps, the burial of Saint Bernard, bishop of Vienne, who, having left the army of Emperor Charlemagne for the army of Christ, gave to the poor the wealth received from his father and built two monasteries, Ambronay and Romans, where he spent the course of his life.

6.  Sora in Latium, Saint Dominic, abbot, who founded monasteries in various regions of Italy and brought others back to regular life through the spirit of his reform.

7.  Pisa in Etruria, blessed Maria Mancini, who, twice widowed and having lost all her children, at the encouragement of Saint Catherine of Siena, began a communal life in the monastery of Saint Dominic, over which she presided for ten years.

8.  Como in Lombardy, blessed Anthony della Chiesa, priest of the Order of Preachers, who restored regular life in several houses of the Order, treating human weakness with gentleness and correcting it with firmness.

9.  London in England, blessed William Patenson, priest and martyr, who, under Queen Elizabeth I, was condemned to death for the priesthood; even in prison, he reconciled six fellow inmates to the Church and at last completed his martyrdom, being cut in pieces at Tyburn.

10.  In Tonkin, SS Francis Gil de Federich and Matthew Alonso de Leziniana, priests of the Order of Preachers and martyrs, who, under the rule of Trịnh Doanh, after steadfast preaching of the Gospel even in chains, were struck with the sword and underwent a glorious death for Christ

11.  Rome, Saint Vincent Pallotti, priest, founder of the Society of the Catholic Apostolate, who, through his writings and works, encouraged all the baptized in Christ to diligently fulfill their vocation in service to the Church.

12.  Bordeaux in France, blessed William Joseph Chaminade, priest, who, exercising pastoral zeal boldly and in secret for a long time, worked to gather the faithful laity to promote devotion to the blessed Virgin Mary and foreign missions, for which he also founded the Institute of the Daughters of Mary Immaculate and the Society of Mary.

13.  In the region of Junín in the Andes in Argentina, blessed Laura Vicuña, virgin, who, born in the city of Santiago in Chile and a student in the Institute of the Daughters of Mary Help of Christians, offered her life to God at the age of thirteen for the conversion of her mother.

14.  Castel Gardo in Italy, blessed Joseph Nascimbeni, priest, founder of the Institute of the Little Sisters of the Holy Family.

15.  Vienna in Austria, blessed Ladislaus Batthyány-Strattmann, who, as a father of a family, bore witness to the Gospel in both family and civil life by the holiness of his life and works, honored the name and dignity of physician in truly Christian manner, and served the sick with great charity, founding hospitals for them, where, having cast aside all vanity, he welcomed only the poor and needy.

January 23^rd

This Day, the Twenty-third Day of January

1.  Caesarea in Mauretania, the holy martyrs Severian and Aquila, husband and wife, who were burned with fire.

2.  Rome, on the Via Nomentana in the Major Cemetery, Saint Emerentiana, martyr.

3.  Ancyra in Galatia, the holy martyrs Clement, bishop, and Agathangelus.

4.  Teano in Campania, the commemoration of Saint Amasius, bishop.

5.  Toledo in Spain, Saint Ildephonsus, bishop, who, being a monk and head of a monastery, was elected bishop and wrote many books with brilliant eloquence, composed notable liturgical prayers, and with wondrous zeal of devotion honored the blessed Mary, Mother of God and ever Virgin.

6.  Dompierre in the region of Besançon in Burgundy, Saint Maimbodus, who, born in Ireland, became a pilgrim and hermit, and is said to have been killed by robbers.

7.  Seoul in Korea, Saint Andrew Chong (Tyong) Hwa-gyong, catechist and martyr, who, by helping Saint Bishop Lawrence Imbert, made his home a refuge for Christians; for this reason, he was severely beaten and finally strangled in prison.

January 24^th

This Day, the Twenty-fourth Day of January

Memorial of Saint Francis de Sales, Bishop of Geneva and Doctor of the Church, a true shepherd of souls, who brought many of our separated brethren back into full communion with the Catholic Church. Through his inspired writings, he taught Christians the beauty of devotion and the love of God. Together with Saint Jane Frances de Chantal, he founded the Order of the Visitation. Living humbly in Lyon, he peacefully surrendered his soul to God on December 28th, and on this day was laid to rest in Annecy.

2.  Foligno in Umbria, the commemoration of Saint Felician, honored as the first bishop of that region, a faithful guardian of the flock entrusted to him.

3.  In the countryside of Troyes in France, the memory of Saint Sabinian, martyr, who bore witness to Christ through the shedding of his blood.

4.  Antioch in Syria, the passion of Saint Babylas, bishop, who, during the persecution of Emperor Decius, after frequently glorifying God by his sufferings and torments, received a glorious end to his life while in iron chains, with which he ordered his body to be buried. Together with him are also said to have suffered three boys, Urban, Prilidian, and Epolonus, whom he had instructed in the faith of Christ.

5.  Cingoli in Picenum, Italy, Saint Exuperantius, bishop, who faithfully shepherded his people and is venerated for his holiness and pastoral zeal.

6.  Binago near Milan in Lombardy, blessed Paula Gambara Costa, widow, a member of the Third Order of Saint Francis, who bore patiently the trials of a difficult marriage, led her husband to conversion, and shone with remarkable charity toward the poor.

7.  In London, England, the blessed memory of the martyrs William Ireland, a Jesuit priest, and John Grove, his devoted servant, who, falsely accused of treason under King Charles II, gave their lives for Christ at Tyburn, steadfast in faith and courage.

8.  In the village of Sainville, in the region of Chartres, France, blessed Marie Poussepin, virgin, who, desiring to assist pastors in their sacred ministry, to educate young girls, and to care for the poor and the sick, founded the Dominican Sisters of Charity of the Presentation of the blessed Virgin Mary.

9.  In the village of Pratulin, in the Siedlce region of Poland, the blessed memory of Vincent Lewoniuk and twelve companions,² martyrs, who, unmoved by threats or promises, refused to abandon the Catholic Church. When they would not hand over the keys to their parish, they were slain without arms or mortally wounded, offering their lives in fidelity to the faith.

10.  Rome, blessed Timothy (Joseph) Giaccardo, priest, who, as a member of the Society of Saint Paul, formed many disciples to proclaim the Gospel to the modern world, wisely using the means of social communication to bring Christ to all.

January 25^th

This Day, the Twenty-fifth Day of January
 

Feast of the Conversion of Saint Paul, Apostle, who, while journeying to Damascus, still breathing threats and murder against the disciples of the Lord, was gloriously revealed to by Jesus Himself on the road. Christ chose him, filled him with the Holy Spirit, and sent him to proclaim the Gospel of salvation to the nations, suffering much for the name of Christ.

2.  Commemoration of Saint Ananias, who, as a disciple of the Lord in Damascus, baptized the newly converted Paul.

3.  Pozzuoli in Campania, Saint Artemas, martyr.

4.  Carthage, Saint Agileus, martyr, on whose heavenly birthday Saint Augustine preached a sermon in his basilica in honor of him.

5.  Nazianzus in Cappadocia, the heavenly birth of Saint Gregory, bishop, whose feast is observed on January 2^nd.

6.  Commemoration of Saint Bretannio, bishop of Tomis in Scythia, who flourished in holiness and zeal for the Catholic faith, and stood firm against the Arian Emperor Valens.

7.  Tabennisi in the Thebaid of Egypt, Saint Palaemon, hermit, who, devoted to prayer and severe austerities, became the spiritual master of Saint Pachomius.

8.  In the region of Auvergne in Aquitaine, the holy martyrs Praejectus, bishop, and Amarinus, man of God, who were both slain by powerful men of the same city.

9.  Marchiennes in Flanders, Saint Poppo, abbot of Stavelot and Malmedy, who spread Cluniac observance through many monasteries of Lotharingia.

10.  Ulm in Swabia, Germany, blessed Henry Suso, priest of the Order of Preachers, who patiently bore countless sufferings and illnesses, composed a treatise on Eternal Wisdom, and fervently preached the sweet name of Jesus.

11.  Amando in Piceno, Italy, blessed Anthony Migliorati, priest of the Order of Hermits of Saint Augustine.

12.  Mantua in Lombardy, blessed Archangela (Eleanora) Girlani, virgin of the Carmelite Order, prioress of the Parma convent and foundress of the Mantuan monastery.

13.  Tortosa in Spain, blessed Emmanuel Domingo y Sol, priest, who founded the Society of Priestly Workers to promote vocations to the priesthood.

14.  Alessandria in Italy, blessed Mary Antonia (Teresa) Grillo, religious sister, who, after being widowed, compassionately cared for the poor in their needs, sold everything she had, and founded the Congregation of the Little Sisters of Divine Providence.

15.  In the Dachau concentration camp near Munich in Bavaria, Germany, blessed Anthony Świadek, priest and martyr, who, during wartime, bore steadfast witness to the faith and received the imperishable crown before those who denied every form of human and Christian dignity.

January 26^th

This Day, the Twenty-sixth Day of January
 

Memorial of Saints Timothy and Titus, bishops, who were disciples and close collaborators of the Apostle Saint Paul in his apostolic labors. Timothy was entrusted with the Church of Ephesus, and Titus with the Church of Crete. To them are addressed epistles that offer wise admonitions for the instruction of both pastors and the faithful.

2.  Hippo Regius in Numidia, Saint Theogenes, martyr, about whom Saint Augustine preached a sermon.

3.  Near Bethlehem in Judea, the passing of Saint Paula, widow, who, of the most noble senatorial lineage, renounced the world, distributed her wealth to the poor, and with her daughter, the blessed virgin Eustochium, withdrew to the cave of the Lord’s Nativity.

4.  In Jerusalem, SS Xenophon and Mary, and their sons John and Arcadius, who, having given up senatorial rank and great possessions, are said to have embraced monastic life in the Holy City with equal fervor of spirit.

5.  Cîteaux in Burgundy, Saint Alberic, abbot, who was among the first monks from Molesme to come to the New Monastery, and who, when elected abbot, governed it with great diligence and care, striving to uphold the monastic way of life as a true lover of the Rule and of his brethren.

6.  Nidaros in Norway, Saint Augustine (Eystein) Erlandsson, bishop, who zealously defended and greatly strengthened the Church entrusted to him, especially against the opposition of secular rulers.

7.  Angers in France, blessed Mary de la Dive, martyr, who, after being widowed, was beheaded during the upheaval of the French Revolution for her steadfast fidelity to the Church.

8.  Near Munich in Bavaria, Germany, blessed Michael Kozal, auxiliary bishop of Włocławek and martyr, who, for defending the faith and the liberty of the Church, was imprisoned for three years with unwavering patience under the nefarious regime of the Nazis in the extermination camp at Dachau, where he ultimately consummated his martyrdom.

January 27^th

This Day, the Twenty-seventh Day of January

Saint Angela Merici, virgin, who first took the habit of the Third Order of Saint Francis and gathered young girls whom she instructed in works of charity. Later, under the name of Saint Ursula, she founded a religious institute of women, entrusting to them the mission of cultivating a life of Christian perfection in the world and of guiding young girls in the ways of the Lord.  last, she gave her soul to God in Brescia, in Lombardy.

2.  Sora in Latium, the commemoration of Saint Julian, martyr, who is said to have suffered during the reign of Emperor Antoninus.

3.  Le Mans in France, Saint Julian, who is held to be the first bishop of that city.

4.  Mariana on the island of Corsica, the commemoration of Saint Devota, virgin and martyr.

5. In the monastery of Bodac in the region of Sisteron in France, Saint Marius, abbot.

6.  Rome, near Saint Peter’s, the repose of Saint Vitalian, pope, who showed particular zeal for the salvation of the English people.

7.  Ternand in Burgundy, the passing of Saint Theoderic, bishop of Orléans, who died on pilgrimage to the tombs of the Apostles.

8.  Chartres in France, the passing of Saint Gildwin, deacon of Dol in Brittany, who, though elected bishop while still a youth, humbly refused so great an honor in the presence of Pope Saint Gregory VII as unworthy, and, returning from Rome, fell ill with fever in this region and completed his earthly pilgrimage.

9.  Thérouanne in France, blessed John, bishop, a regular canon who took up the see of the Morini, where he opposed simoniacs for over thirty years and founded eight monasteries for both canons and monks.

10.  Riva San Vitale, near Como in Lombardy, blessed Manfred Settala, priest and hermit.

11.  Angers in France, blessed Rosalie du Verdier de la Sorinière, virgin and martyr of the Monastery of Calvary in that same city, who, during the turmoil of the French Revolution, was condemned to death out of hatred for the Christian religion.

12.  Near Mengo in Uganda, the passion of Saint John Mary, called Muzei or “the Elder” because of his maturity of soul, a servant of the king who, having become Christian, refused to flee from persecution. Of his own accord he declared his faith in Christ before the chief minister of King Mwanga, and for that, was beheaded, becoming the final victim of that persecution.

13.  In the town of Gilet, in the province of Valencia, Spain, Saint Henry de Osso y Cervelló, priest, who, to promote the education of girls, founded the Society of Saint Teresa. After being separated from the congregation, he spent the rest of his life in a Friars Minor convent.

14.  Kaunas in Lithuania, blessed George Matulaitis, bishop of Vilnius and later apostolic delegate to Lithuania, who founded the Congregation of Marian Clerics and the Congregation of the Poor Sisters of the Immaculate Conception of the blessed Virgin Mary.

January 28^th

This Day, the Twenty-eighth Day of January

2.  the monastery of Réome near Langres in Neustria, Saint John, priest and man devoted to God, who gathered monks under the Rule of Saint Macarius.

3.  Commemoration of Saint James, hermit in Palestine, who, in a spirit of penance, spent a long time hidden within a tomb.

4.  Cuenca in New Castile, Spain, Saint Julian, bishop, who, being the second bishop after the city was recovered from the Moors, greatly illumined the Church. He gave the Church’s goods to the poor and sustained his daily needs by the work of his hands.

5.  Near San Frediano close to Pisa in Etruria, blessed Bartholomew Aiutamicristo, religious of the Camaldolese Order.

6.  In the village of Plévin, in Brittany, France, blessed Julian Maunoir, priest of the Society of Jesus, who dedicated himself completely for forty-two years to missionary work both in countryside and cities throughout the province.

7.  In the city of Maokou, in Guizhou Province, China, SS Agatha Lin Zhao, virgin, Jerome Lu Tingmei, and Laurence Wang Bing, martyrs, catechists who, having been denounced as Christians during the reign of Emperor Wenzongxian, were at last beheaded.

8.  In the city of Daijiazhuang, in southern Shandong Province, China, Saint Joseph Freinademetz, priest of the Society of the Divine Word, who labored untiringly in the work of evangelization in that region.

9.  In the city of Picassent, in the Valencia region of Spain, blessed María Aloysia Montesinos Orduña, virgin and martyr, who, during a time of fierce persecution against the faith, became a partaker in Christ’s victory through martyrdom.

10.  In the detention camp of Kharsk, near Tomsk in Siberia, Russia, blessed Olympia (Olha) Bida, virgin of the Congregation of the Sisters of Saint Joseph and martyr, who, under a regime of persecution against the faith, endured all adversities for the love of Christ

January 29^th

This Day, the Twenty-ninth Day of January

1.  Edessa in Osrhoene, the holy martyrs Sarbelus, a priest, and Bebaia, his sister, who were brought to baptism by Saint Barsimeus, bishop, and are said to have suffered for Christ

2.  Rome, on the Nomentan Way, in the cemetery of Maius, the holy martyrs Papias and Maurus, soldiers.

3.  Perugia in Umbria, Saint Constantius, bishop.

4.  Antioch in Syria, the holy martyrs Juventinus and Maximinus, who were crowned with martyrdom under Julian the Apostate, emperor.

5.  Trier in Belgic France, Saint Valerius, bishop, who was the second to occupy that see.

6. Near Antioch in Syria, Saint Aphraates, hermit, who, born and educated among the Persians and following the path of the Magi, converted to the Lord at Bethlehem. Seeking Edessa, he withdrew to a small dwelling outside the walls, and finally at Antioch he defended the Catholic faith against the Arians through preaching and writings.

7. In Britain Minor, Saint Gildas, surnamed “the Wise”, abbot, who wrote about the downfall of Britain, mourning the calamities of his people and reproving the depravity of the rulers and clergy. He is said to have founded the monastery of Rhuys facing the sea and to have died on the island of Houat.

8.  Bourges in Aquitaine, Saint Sulpicius Severus, bishop, formerly a senator of France, whose wisdom, pastoral care, and zeal for restoring discipline Saint Gregory of Tours praised.

9.  Florence in Etruria, blessed Villana de’ Botti, a housewife, who, renouncing worldly life, obtained the habit of the Sisters of the Penitents of Saint Dominic and stood out for her meditation on the crucified Christ and her austere way of life, even begging alms for the poor along the roads.

10. In the city of Białystok in Poland, blessed Bolesława Maria Lament, virgin, who, amid political upheavals, founded the Congregation of the Missionary Sisters of the Holy Family to promote the unity of Christians, aid the abandoned, and provide Christian instruction to girls.

January 30^th

This Day, the Thirtieth Day of January

1.  Jerusalem, Saint Matthias, bishop, who, after suffering much for Christ, finally rested in peace.

2.  Edessa in Osrhoene, Saint Barsimeus, bishop, who, for the faith of Christ, is said to have been scourged under Emperor Decius, but, after the persecution ended, was released from prison and devoted the remainder of his life with great diligence to governing the Church entrusted to him.

3.  Rome, the commemoration of Saint Martina, under whose name Pope Donus dedicated a basilica in the Roman Forum.

4.  Chelles on the Marne in the region of Paris in France, Saint Bathildis, queen, who founded monasteries following the Rule of Saint Benedict in the tradition of Luxeuil; after the death of her husband, Clovis II, she assumed the governance of the kingdom of the Franks, and during her son’s reign, spent her last years in religious observance under a strict rule.

5.  Maubeuge in Neustria, Saint Aldegundis, abbess, during the time of King Dagobert.

6.  Pavia in Lombardy, Saint Armentarius, bishop, who solemnly placed the body of Saint Augustine, translated by King Liutprand, in the Basilica of Saint Peter in the Golden Heaven (in Coelo Aureo).

7.  The martyrdom of Saint Theophilus, surnamed “the Youth”, who was a commander of a Christian fleet. Captured by enemies in Cyprus and brought before Harun, the supreme prince of the Saracens, he could not be swayed to deny Christ either by gifts or threats, and was beheaded by the sword.

8.  Burgos in Old Castile, Spain, Saint Adelelm, abbot, who converted the chapel of Saint John together with a guesthouse into a monastery.

9.  Dublin in Ireland, the death of blessed Francis Taylor, martyr, a family man, who suffered seven years in prison for the Catholic faith, and, afflicted by tribulations and old age, completed his martyrdom under King James I.

10.  Viterbo in Tuscany, Saint Hyacintha Mariscotti, virgin of the Third Order Regular of Saint Francis, who, after fifteen years spent in vain pleasures, embraced a most austere conversion and inspired confraternities to console the elderly and to adore the Holy Eucharist.

11.  Turin in Piedmont, blessed Sebastian Valfrè, priest of the Congregation of the Oratory, who dedicated himself entirely to helping the poor, the sick, and those imprisoned, and by his friendship and fervent charity brought many to Christ.

12.  Seoul in Korea, Saint Paul Ho Hyob, martyr, and soldier, who was arrested for professing the faith and subjected to torture. Though he seemed to falter from weakness, he repented and immediately reaffirmed the faith of Christ before the judge. After a long imprisonment, beaten by blows, he died.

13. In Tonkin, Saint Thomas Khuông, priest and martyr, who, in the persecution under Emperor Tự Đức, bravely professed himself a Christian, was imprisoned, and, kneeling before the cross, was beheaded.

14.  Guadalajara in Mexico, Saint David Galván, priest and martyr, who, during the Mexican persecution, for defending the sanctity of marriage, was shot without trial by a soldier and thus obtained a glorious crown.

15.  Malonne in Belgium, Saint Mucian Mary (Aloysius) Wiaux, a Brother of the Christian Schools, who dedicated nearly his entire life with great constancy and tireless joy to the education of youth.

 16.  In the Abbey of Saint Benedict at Maredsous, also in Belgium, blessed Columba (Joseph) Marmion, who, born in Ireland, became a priest and later abbot in the Order of Saint Benedict, and shone as the spiritual father of the monastery and guide of souls through the holiness of his life, spiritual teaching, and eloquence.

17.  In the village of Torrent in Spain, blessed Carmela García Moyón, martyr, a fervent teacher of Christian doctrine, who, during the religious persecution, was burned alive for faith in Christ

18.  In the city of Gdeszyn in Poland, blessed Sigismund Pisarski, priest and martyr, who, during the war, was shot and killed in his parish for not renouncing the faith in the face of his persecutors.

January 31^st

This Day, the Thirty-first Day of January

Memorial of Saint John Bosco, priest, who endured a difficult childhood and, once ordained a priest, dedicated all his strength to the education of youth. He founded the Salesian Society and, with the help of Saint Maria Domenica Mazzarello, the Institute of the Daughters of Mary Help of Christians, to teach young people both useful skills and Christian living.  Turin in Italy, on this day, after accomplishing many works, he peacefully departed to the eternal banquet.

2.  Corinth in Achaia, the holy martyrs Victorinus, Victor, Nicephorus, Claudius, Diodorus, Serapion, and Papias, who are said to have completed their martyrdom under the emperor Decius, suffering various tortures.

3.  Commemoration of Saint Metranus, martyr of Alexandria in Egypt, who, under Emperor Decius, when he refused, despite the command of pagans, to utter impious words, was savagely beaten by bystanders and killed outside the city, crushed with stones.

4.  Also at Alexandria, the holy martyrs Cyrus and John, who, for confessing Christ, after many tortures, were beheaded.

5.  Modena in Emilia, Saint Geminianus, bishop, who led his church away from the error of the Arians to the orthodox faith.

6.  In Persia, the passion of Saint Abraham, bishop of Arbela, who, under King Shapur of the Persians, was beheaded because he refused to worship the sun.

7.  Novara in Liguria, Saint Julius, priest.

8.  Rome, commemoration of Saint Marcellina, widow, who, as Saint Jerome records, by despising wealth and nobility, became more noble through poverty and humility.

 9.  Ferns in Ireland, Saint M’eadoc (or Aidan), bishop, who founded monasteries there and was renowned for his great austerity.

10.  In the region of Constance in Neustria, Saint Waldus, bishop of Évreux.

11.  On Mount Saint Victor near Regensburg in southern Bavaria, Saint Eusebius, who was born in Ireland, journeyed for Christ, became a monk at the monastery of Saint Gall, and finally lived as a hermit.

12.  Rome, blessed Ludovica Albertoni, who, after devoutly raising her children in Christian morals and the death of her husband, joined the Third Order of Saint Francis and, from being wealthy, became exceedingly poor, assisting the poor.

13.  Naples in Campania, Saint Francis Xavier Mary Bianchi, priest of the Order of Clerics Regular of Saint Paul, endowed with mystical gifts, who led many to live under the grace of the Gospel.

14.  In Korea, the holy martyrs Augustine Pak Chong-won, catechist, and five companions ³, who, after enduring many sufferings, professed the Christian faith with fearless courage and glorified God by being beheaded.

___________________________

1.  Their names: Blessed Jean-Baptiste Triquerie, of the Order of Friars Minor Conventual; Jean-Marie Gallot, Joseph Pelle, René-Louis Ambroise, Julien-François Morvin de la Gérardière, François Duchesne, Jacques André, André Duliou, Louis Gastineau, François Migoret Lambardière, Julien Moule, Augustin-Emmanuel Philippot, Pierre Thomas.

2.  Their names: Blessed Daniel Karmasz, Luke Bojko, Bartholomew Osypiuk, Onuphrius Wasiluk, Philip Kiryluk, Constantine Bojko, Michael Nicephorus Hryciuk, Ignatius Franczuk, John Andrzejuk, Constantine Lubaszuk, Maximus Hawryluk, Michael Wawrzyszuk.

3.  Their names: Saints Peter Hong Pyong-ju, catechist; Mary Yi In-dog, virgin; Magdalene Son So-byog, Agatha Yi Kyong-i, Agatha Kwon Chin-i.

Omnes sancti Mártyres, oráte pro nobis. (“All ye Holy Martyrs, pray for us,”
from the Litaniae Sanctorum, the Litany of the Saints)

“Scio opera tua ... quia modicum habes virtutem, et servasti verbum Meum, nec non negasti Nomen Meum”