Dedication of the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore
It is so called to indicate its pre-eminence over all the other churches in the world named after the Blessed Virgin. Its name is linked to the centuries-old cult of Our Lady of the Snow.
Saint John Mary Vianney
Endless rows of penitents forced him to spend up to 16 hours a day in the confessional. He interrupted confessions only to celebrate Mass. The very way he celebrated Mass was the most powerful means of conversion.
Saint Eusebius of Vercelli
He was one of the few bishops to defend strenuously, at the cost of persecution, the righteous faith in the Son of God “begotten, not created, of the same substance as the Father”, as had been solemnly confirmed by the Nicene Creed.
Saint Alphonsus Maria de’ Liguori
He was able to speak of the truths of faith to both learned and simple people, writing over a hundred works, some of which have been translated into more than 70 languages.
Saint Ignatius of Loyola
Before choosing holiness and consecrating his life to the greater glory of God, Saint Ignatius of Loyola (1491-1556) had had a rather turbulent youth. The great protagonist of the Catholic Reformation was the last of 13 children of a couple of the high Spanish nobility, who had baptized him with the name of Iñigo.
Saint Peter Chrysologus
For his sermons he was proclaimed Doctor of the Church.
Saints Martha, Mary and Lazarus
Today we commemorate together the three holy brothers of Bethany, friends of the Lord Jesus.
Saint Alphonsa of the Immaculate Conception
"I consider the day I have not suffered a lost day for me,” she said
Saint Pantaleon
He is the patron saint of midwives and co-patron of doctors together with the famous Cosmas and Damian.
Saints Anne and Joachim
Today the Church jointly celebrates Saints Anne and Joachim, parents of the Virgin Mary.
Saint James the Greater
He was the first of the Twelve to bear witness to Christ through martyrdom.