FIRST FRIDAY
- St. Iranaeus (203). Bishop, Martyr. (Traditional)
- St. Leo II (683). Pope. (Historical)
- St. Thomas (75). Apostle, Martyr. (Current) Also Apostle to India
THIS Saint was born at Dalmatia, St. Jerome’s native country, and soon sought out that great Doctor, in order not only to follow his advice in matters relating to Christian perfection, but also to profit by his deep learning. The life of a recluse possessed peculiar attractions for him, but to enter a monastery it would be necessary to leave his spiritual master and director, and such a sacrifice he was not prepared to make. He remained in the world, though not of it, and, following the example of the holy anchorites, passed his time in prayer and devout reading. He accompanied St. Jerome to the East, but the desire to revisit his native land, and to see his parents once more, drew him back to Dalmatia, although St. Jerome tried to persuade him to remain. He promised to return as soon as he had fulfilled the duty he owed his parents. In the meantime, finding his absence protracted, and fearing that the love of family and attachment to worldly things might lure him from his vocation, St. Jerome wrote him an earnest letter exhorting him to break entirely with the world, and to consecrate himself to the service of God. But the Lord, who disposes all things, had another mission for His servant. After the death of his mother, Heliodorus went to Italy, where he soon became noted for his eminent piety. He was made Bishop of Altino, and became one of the most distinguished prelates of an age fruitful in great men. He died about the year 290.
WORD OF THE DAY
CHARISMS OF SERVICE. Supernatural gifts described by St. Paul, conferred on persons in the service of the faithful: 1. almsgiving (Romans 12:8), the receiving of supernatural tact in service of the poor and needy with simplicity of intention; 2. manifestation of mercy (Romans 12:8), the quality of showing compassion for the unfortunate, the imprisoned, and the sick, along with the ability to remain always cheerful even under duress; 3. helpfulness (I Corinthians 12:28), the gift of simplicity in being of ready service to anyone in need; 4. leadership (I Corinthians 12:28), distinct from the charism of administration as a supernatural gift of taking the initiative and of directing others for the good of the Mystical body.
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!)
July, Month of the Precious Blood
The Precious BIood of Jesus – Short Meditations for July. July 3d — The Anticipation of the Precious Blood.
