As a teenager, Godfrey, a native of Treves, France, combined a dedication to the study of Scripture and ecclesiastical literature with a deep purity of heart. While serving as a chanter in the cathedral of Le Mans, he exhibited great generosity in his donations to the poor and to the fitting adornment of churches. In 1234 Godfrey was chosen to become bishop of Le Mans. While zealously applying himself to his episcopal responsibilities, he continued his corporal works of mercy to the needy, and fortified his soul with contemplation and spiritual reading. When in 1254 the construction of Le Mans cathedral was completed, Godfrey insisted upon carrying with his own hands the relics of the third century bishop Saint Julian of Le Mans to the high altar for the veneration of the faithful. Godfrey also helped to found a Carthusian monastery at Parc d’Orques, personally funding the construction of a spacious new church for the monks. It was while journeying to Rome to visit Pope Alexander IV that Godfrey fell gravely ill and died at Anagni, Italy.
Eldest son of a shoemaker, John was born at Diest, Brabant. He early wanted to be a priest, and when thirteen became a servant in the household of one of the Cathedral canons at Malines, John ... continue readingMore Saint of the Day
St. Christina was the daughter of a rich and powerful magistrate named Urbain. Her father, who was deep in the practices of heathenism, had a number of golden idols, which our saint destroyed, and distributed the pieces among the poor. Infuriated by this act, Urbain ... continue readingMore Female Saints
St. Michael the Archangel - Feast day - September 29th The name Michael signifies "Who is like to God?" and was the warcry of the good angels in the battle fought in heaven against satan and his followers. Holy Scripture describes St. Michael as "one of the chief ... continue reading
The name Gabriel means "man of God," or "God has shown himself mighty." It appears first in the prophesies of Daniel in the Old Testament. The angel announced to Daniel the prophecy of the seventy weeks. His name also occurs in the apocryphal book of Henoch. He was the ... continue reading
Although little is known about Simon Stock's early life, legend has it that the name Stock, meaning "tree trunk," derives from the fact that, beginning at age twelve, he lived as a hermit ... continue reading
By Deacon F.K. Bartels
St. Teresa's whole life is one of simple beauty and fervent purpose; it is a life contained in Christ. She shows us how to live the same way through Prayer.On reading from St. Teresa, a deep feeling of her love for His Majesty envelops us; we begin, in a very real, ... continue readingMore Christian Saints & Heroes