• St. Sylvester I (335). Pope. (Current, Traditional)

SYLVESTER was born in Rome toward the close of the third century. He was a young priest when the persecution of the Christians broke out under the tyrant Diocletian. Idols were erected at the corners of the streets, in the market-places, and over the public fountains, so that it was scarcely possible for a Christian to go abroad without being put to the test of offering sacrifice, with the alternative of apostasy or death. During this fiery trial, Sylvester strengthened the confessors and martyrs, God preserving his life from many dangers In 312 a new era set in. Constantine, having triumphed under the “standard of the Cross,” declared himself the protector of the Christians, and built them splendid churches. At this juncture, Sylvester was elected to the chair of Peter, and was thus the first of the Roman Pontiffs to rule the flock of Christ in security and peace. He profited by these blessings to renew the discipline of the Church, and in two great Councils confirmed her sacred truths. In the Council of Arles he condemned the schism of the Donatists; and in that of Nicea, the first General Council of the Church, he dealt Arianism its death-blow by declaring that Jesus Christ is the true and very God. Sylvester died A.D. 335.

REFLECTION: Never forget to thank God daily for having made you a member of His undying Church, and grow daily in your attachment, devotion, and loyalty to the Vicar of Christ.

WORD OF THE DAY

AUTHENTIC TEACHING. Official teaching of the hierarchical Church. Its authenticity depends on its authorization, which means the assurance of divine guidance, as vested in the duly ordained successors of the Apostles united with the Bishop of Rome. Authentic teaching is also infallible when the hierarchy (Pope or bishops with the Pope) intends it universally to bind the consciences of the faithful.

Modern Catholic Dictionary, Fr. John Hardon SJ (Get the real one at Eternal Life — don’t accept an abridged or edited version of this masterpiece!)

Christmastide Meditations

Daily devotional meditations on the Birth of Our Savior and Christmastide: The Shepherds’ Visit & How to begin Heaven on Earth – Christmas Meditation Day 7 (Dec 31)