Tuesday, September 10, 2024

Saint Nicholas of Tolentino

**Saint Nicholas of Tolentino** (Latin: *S. Nicolaus de Tolentino*) was an Italian saint and mystic, born in 1245 in Sant'Angelo in Pontano, Italy. He is particularly known as the **Patron of Holy Souls** and is invoked as an advocate for the souls in Purgatory.

Nicholas became a friar of the Order of Hermits of Saint Augustine at the age of 18 and was ordained a priest seven years later. He gained a reputation as a preacher and a confessor, ministering to the poor and criminals¹. He is said to have cured the sick with bread over which he had prayed to Mary, the Mother of God.

Saint Nicholas of Tolentino died on September 10, 1305, after a long illness. He was canonized by Pope Eugene IV on June 5, 1446. His feast day is celebrated on September 10.

Saint Nicholas of Tolentino is renowned for numerous miracles that have been attributed to his intercession. Here are some of the most notable ones:

1. **Healing the Sick**: Saint Nicholas was known for his ability to heal the sick. One of the most famous miracles involved curing a sick child with a simple prayer.

2. **Feeding the Poor**: He was also known for his charity work, including feeding the poor. He would often distribute bread that he had blessed, which was believed to have healing properties.

3. **Resurrecting the Dead**: One of the most extraordinary miracles attributed to Saint Nicholas is the resurrection of over 100 dead children, including several who had drowned together.

4. **Calming Storms**: Saint Nicholas was known to have calmed storms through his prayers, providing safety to those at sea.

5. **Saving the Burning Palace**: An apparition of Saint Nicholas is said to have saved the burning palace of the Doge of Venice by throwing a piece of blessed bread on the flames.

6. **Incorrupt Body**: The incorrupt body of Saint Nicholas of Tolentino lies in his tomb, and it is believed that grace opens souls to Christ through his intercession, operating conversions and miracles to this day.

These miracles highlight the profound impact of Saint Nicholas of Tolentino's faith and his dedication to serving others. His life and miracles continue to inspire and provide hope to many.

¹: [Nicholas of Tolentino - Wikipedia](^1^)

(1) Nicholas of Tolentino - Wikipedia. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nicholas_of_Tolentino.
(2) Nicholas of Tolentino - Wikipedia. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nicholas_of_Tolentino.
(3) St. Nicholas of Tolentino | EWTN. https://www.ewtn.com/catholicism/saints/nicholas-of-tolentino-711. (4) Saint Nicholas of Tolentino - Catholic Saint | Saint for a Minute .... https://www.saintforaminute.com/saints/saint_nicholas_of_tolentino.
(5) Saint Nicholas of Tolentino — Google Arts & Culture. https://artsandculture.google.com/story/iQWBEZm6lEqzZw.

Monday, September 9, 2024

Saint Peter Claver, Priest

The Memorial of Saint Peter Claver, Priest, is celebrated on **September 9th**. Saint Peter Claver was a Jesuit priest from Catalonia who dedicated his life to ministering to enslaved Africans in Cartagena, Colombia. He served them for **thirty-eight years**, baptizing over **300,000** individuals. He is known for his Christlike compassion and his efforts to confront the horrors of slavery.

Saint Peter Claver was canonized by Pope Leo XIII on January 15, 1888. He is the patron saint of African missions, African-Americans, black missions, black people, foreign missions, interracial justice, slaves, and Colombia. His life and work continue to inspire many to strive for peace and justice in their communities.

The Memorial of Saint Peter Claver, Priest, is celebrated on **September 9th**. Saint Peter Claver was a Jesuit priest from Catalonia who dedicated his life to ministering to enslaved Africans in Cartagena, Colombia. He served them for **thirty-eight years**, baptizing over **300,000** individuals³. He is known for his Christlike compassion and his efforts to confront the horrors of slavery.

Saint Peter Claver was canonized by Pope Leo XIII on January 15, 1888. He is the patron saint of African missions, African-Americans, black missions, black people, foreign missions, interracial justice, slaves, and Colombia. His life and work continue to inspire many to strive for peace and justice in their communities.

Several miracles are attributed to Saint Peter Claver, both during his lifetime and after his death. Here are some notable ones:

1. **Healing the Sick**: Saint Peter Claver was known for his miraculous healings. There were instances when he healed the sick with the touch of his cloak.

2. **Supernatural Light**: During his hospital visits, he was sometimes seen surrounded by a supernatural light.

3. **Miracles in America**: After his death, three miracles from America were attributed to him: one in St. Louis, one in Milwaukee, and one in Philadelphia.

4. **Miracle for Canonization**: One of the miracles chosen for his canonization process was formally declared authentic in Rome by Cardinal Bianchi in 1887.

These miracles contributed to his canonization and the recognition of his holiness and dedication to serving others.

(1) Feast of St. Peter Claver | USCCB. https://www.usccb.org/committees/ad-hoc-committee-against-racism/feast-st-peter-claver.
(2) Fighting slavery like a saint: The story of St. Peter Claver, SJ. https://www.catholicworldreport.com/2024/09/09/fight-slavery-like-a-saint-the-story-of-peter-claver/.
(3) St. Peter Claver - My Catholic Life!. https://mycatholic.life/saints/saints-of-the-liturgical-year/september-9-saint-peter-claver/.
(4) Celebrate the Memorial of St. Peter Claver. https://dosafl.com/2021/09/07/celebrate-the-feast-of-st-peter-claver/.
(5) Peter Claver - Wikipedia. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Peter_Claver.
(6) en.wikipedia.org. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Peter_Claver.

Somno refectis artubus

The hymn "Our limbs refreshed with slumber now" originates from the Latin hymn "Somno refectis artubus," which is attributed to **Saint Ambrose** (340-397 AD). Saint Ambrose was a bishop of Milan and one of the most influential ecclesiastical figures of the 4th century. He is known for his contributions to Christian hymnody and liturgy.

The hymn is traditionally sung at Matins on Mondays and is part of the **Breviary and Missal**¹. The English translation of this hymn was done by **John Mason Neale**, a 19th-century Anglican priest and hymnologist. Neale's translations of ancient hymns have been widely appreciated for their poetic quality and faithfulness to the original texts.
Here is the text of the hymn in a code block for clarity:

```text

Our limbs refreshed with slumber now,
And sloth cast off, in prayer we bow;
And while we sing thy praises dear,
O Father, be thou present here.
To thee our earliest morning song,
To thee our hearts full powers belong;
And thou, O Holy One, prevent
Each following action and intent.
As shades at morning flee away,
And night before the star of day;
So each transgression of the night
Be purged by thee, celestial Light!
Cut off, we pray thee, each offense,
And every lust of thought and sense:
That by their lips who thee adore
Thou mayst be praised forevermore.
Grant this, O Father ever One
With Christ, thy sole-begotten Son,
And Holy Ghost, whom all adore,
Reigning and blest forevermore.
Amen.

``` ¹: [Catholic Cornucopia](^1^)
³: [Hymnary.org](^3^)

(1) Somno refectis artubus : The Hymns of the Breviary and Missal .... http://cathcorn.org/hotbam/11.html.
(2) Our limbs refreshed with slumber now | Hymnary.org. https://patrick.calvin.edu/text/our_limbs_refreshed_with_slumber_now.
(3) Somno refectis artubus : The Hymns of the Breviary and Missal .... http://cathcorn.org/hotbam/11.html.
(4) Our limbs refreshed with slumber now | Hymnary.org. https://patrick.calvin.edu/text/our_limbs_refreshed_with_slumber_now.
(5) OPenn: Lewis E M 70:5-8 Choir psalter and Hymnal. https://openn.library.upenn.edu/Data/0023/html/lewis_e_m_070_005-008.html.

Saint Gorgonius

**Saint Gorgonius** was a Christian martyr who suffered during the Diocletianic Persecution in AD 304. He held a high position in the household of the emperor and was martyred alongside Peter Cubicularius and Dorotheus.

Gorgonius is venerated in both the Eastern Orthodox Church and the Roman Catholic Church. His feast day is celebrated on **September 9** in the Roman Catholic Church and on **March 12** in the Eastern Orthodox Church.

Saint Gorgonius of Rome, who is sometimes confused with Gorgonius of Nicomedia, is commemorated on **September 9**. He was buried in the cemetery known as "Inter duas lauros" on the Via Labicana.

Saint Gorgonius is venerated for his steadfastness and courage, which have inspired countless Christians throughout history. His relics were highly revered, and portions of his body were distributed to various churches, although many were lost during the French Revolution.

Saint Gorgonius of Rome endured severe torments and cruelty during his martyrdom. According to historical accounts, he was arrested by Roman authorities for openly professing his Christian faith. The specific details of his torments are scarce, but it is believed that he faced brutal treatment and torture before his execution.

In general, early Christian martyrs like Saint Gorgonius often faced various forms of torture, such as being beaten, scourged, and subjected to other physical and psychological torments. Despite the suffering, Saint Gorgonius remained steadfast in his faith and refused to renounce his beliefs.

His unwavering commitment to Christ and his willingness to endure such cruelty for the sake of his faith have made him an enduring symbol of courage and devotion in the Christian tradition.

Early Christian martyrdom in Rome was a period of intense persecution and suffering for Christians who openly professed their faith. The most notorious period of persecution began under Emperor Nero in AD 64, following the Great Fire of Rome. Nero blamed the Christians for the fire, leading to widespread arrests and executions.

The First Martyrs of the Church of Rome, celebrated on June 30th, were among those who suffered during Nero's persecution. According to historical accounts, many Christians were put to death in brutal ways. Some were sewn into the bellies of animals and fed to wild dogs, while others were crucified or burned alive.

The historian Tacitus and Pope Clement I recorded these events, highlighting the extreme cruelty faced by early Christians. Saints Peter and Paul were also believed to be among the victims of Nero's persecution.

Despite the severe torments, the early Christian martyrs remained steadfast in their faith, inspiring future generations of Christians. Their courage and dedication to their beliefs have made them enduring symbols of faith and devotion in the Christian tradition.

(1) First Martyrs of the Church of Rome - Wikipedia. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/First_Martyrs_of_the_Church_of_Rome.
(2) First Martyrs of the Church of Rome - Franciscan Media. https://www.franciscanmedia.org/saint-of-the-day/first-martyrs-of-the-church-of-rome/.
(3) First Martyrs of the Church of Rome - My Catholic Life!. https://mycatholic.life/saints/saints-of-the-liturgical-year/june-30-first-martyrs-of-the-church-of-rome/.
(4) The Early Christian Martyrs: Persecutions in the Roman Empire. https://www.thecollector.com/early-christian-martyrs/.

Sunday, September 8, 2024

Homily by St. Ambrose, Bishop of Milan. Bk. 7 on Luke XIV

Homily by St. Ambrose, Bishop of Milan. Bk. 7 on Luke XIV Now is healed this man sick of the dropsy, in whom too much watery matter had well-nigh drowned the functions of life, and quenched the fire of understanding. Anon, a lesson is given in lowly-mindedness, when it is forbidden to the guests at a marriage feast to go and sit down unasked in the highest room, albeit the Lord spake gently, that the teaching of courtesy might forestall a harsh rebuke, reason prevail by dint of persuasion, and the desires be bent to follow the instruction. And upon this, as next-door neighbour, cometh courtesy, which is so called by the Lord, when it is shown to the poor and weak, since to show it to them from whom we are to receive aught, is but a movement of self-interest.

The above text from a **homily by St. Ambrose, Bishop of Milan**, specifically from **Book 7 on Luke XIV**. In this homily, St. Ambrose reflects on the healing of a man with dropsy by Jesus. Dropsy, known today as edema, is a condition characterized by abnormal swelling due to the accumulation of fluid in the body's tissues.

St. Ambrose describes how the excessive watery matter in the man with dropsy had nearly drowned the functions of life and quenched the fire of understanding. Jesus' healing of this man is a demonstration of His compassion and divine power.

Following the healing, St. Ambrose discusses a lesson in humility, where Jesus advises guests at a marriage feast not to take the highest place uninvited. This teaching of courtesy is meant to prevent a harsh rebuke and to encourage reason and persuasion. St. Ambrose emphasizes that true courtesy is shown to the poor and weak, rather than those from whom we expect something in return, as the latter is merely an act of self-interest.

This homily highlights the themes of healing, humility, and genuine courtesy as taught by Jesus.

Humility is a central virtue in Christianity, and it is emphasized throughout the Bible and Christian teachings. Here are some key aspects of humility in Christianity:

1. **Recognition of Dependence on God**: Humility involves acknowledging our limitations, weaknesses, and complete dependence on God. It is about recognizing that we are not self-sufficient and that we need God's grace and guidance in our lives.

2. **Imitating Christ**: Jesus Christ is the ultimate model of humility. He humbled Himself by becoming human and obediently accepting death on the cross (Philippians 2:5-8). Christians are called to imitate Christ's humility by serving others and putting their needs before our own.

3. **Trusting in God's Wisdom**: Humility means trusting in God's wisdom and following His will, even when it goes against our own desires or understanding. It involves submitting to God's authority and recognizing that His ways are higher than our ways (Isaiah 55:8-9).

4. **Serving Others**: Humility is closely linked to service. Jesus taught that true greatness comes from serving others, not from seeking power or recognition (Matthew 20:26-28). Christians are encouraged to serve others selflessly and to consider others more important than themselves (Philippians 2:3-4).

5. **Avoiding Pride and Arrogance**: Humility involves rejecting pride and arrogance. The Bible warns against the dangers of pride and emphasizes the importance of humility in maintaining a right relationship with God and others (Proverbs 16:18, James 4:6).

6. **Genuine Gratitude**: Humility is characterized by genuine gratitude for God's blessings and a lack of entitlement. It involves recognizing that everything we have is a gift from God and being thankful for His provision (1 Thessalonians 5:18).

7. **Building Healthy Relationships**: Humility is essential for building healthy relationships. It helps us to prioritize others, seek reconciliation, and maintain unity within the Christian community (Ephesians 4:2-3).

In summary, humility in Christianity is about recognizing our dependence on God, imitating Christ's example, serving others, trusting in God's wisdom, avoiding pride, expressing genuine gratitude, and building healthy relationships. It is a foundational virtue that shapes the Christian life and fosters spiritual growth.

¹: [What is Humility? Bible Meaning and Importance Today](^1^)
²: [Cultivating Humility: A Biblical Perspective for Spiritual Growth and ...](^2^)
³: [The Power of Humility: Why It’s Crucial for Christian Life](^3^)
⁴: [What Is the Meaning of Humility in the Bible? - Topical Studies](^4^)
(1) Cultivating Humility: A Biblical Perspective for Spiritual Growth and .... https://www.wisdomonline.org/blog/humility.
(2) What is Humility? Bible Meaning and Importance Today - Christianity. https://www.christianity.com/wiki/christian-terms/what-does-humility-mean-in-the-bible-why-should-we-be-humble.html.
(3) The Power of Humility: Why It’s Crucial for Christian Life - temporary. https://christianeducatorsacademy.com/the-power-of-humility-why-its-crucial-for-christian-life/.
(4) What Is the Meaning of Humility in the Bible? - Topical Studies. https://www.biblestudytools.com/bible-study/topical-studies/what-is-the-meaning-of-humility-in-the-bible.html.
(5) What is Humility? Bible Meaning and Importance Toda - Christianity. https://www.christianity.com/wiki/christian-terms/what-does-humility-mean-in-the-bible-why-should-we-be-humble.html.
(6) Cultivating Humility: A Biblical Perspective for Spiritual Growth and .... https://www.wisdomonline.org/blog/humility.
(7) The Power of Humility: Why It’s Crucial for Christian Life - temporary. https://christianeducatorsacademy.com/the-power-of-humility-why-its-crucial-for-christian-life/.
(8) What Is the Meaning of Humility in the Bible? - Topical Studies. https://www.biblestudytools.com/bible-study/topical-studies/what-is-the-meaning-of-humility-in-the-bible.html.

Feast of the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary

"In Nativitate Beatæ Mariæ Virginis" refers to the **Feast of the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary**. This feast is celebrated on **September 8th** each year in the Roman Catholic Church. It commemorates the birth of the Virgin Mary, who is honored as the mother of Jesus Christ. This feast is significant as it marks the beginning of the fulfillment of God's plan for the salvation of humanity through Jesus Christ.

The **Nativity of Mary** is important in Christian theology for several reasons:

1. **Fulfillment of Prophecies**: Mary's birth marks the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies and the beginning of the New Testament era. Her birth brings to an end the stage of expectation and promises, and inaugurates the era of grace and salvation in Jesus Christ.

2. **Immaculate Conception**: According to Catholic belief, Mary was conceived without original sin, making her a pure and suitable vessel to carry the Son of God. Her purity and grace are seen as preconditions for the coming of the Messiah.

3. **Universal Joy**: The Nativity of Mary is considered a day of universal joy because through her, the entire human race was renewed, and the sorrow of the first mother, Eve, was transformed into joy.

4. **Mother of the Savior**: Mary's birth is ordained toward her mission as the Mother of the Savior. She plays a crucial role in Christian theology as the mother of Jesus, the Son of God.

5. **Example of Faith**: Mary's faithful perseverance in doing the will of God and her heavenly reward are sources of courage and hope for all Christians.

These aspects highlight the significance of the Nativity of Mary in Christian theology and its importance in the liturgical calendar.

Mary, the mother of Jesus, serves as a profound model for Christians in several ways:

**Faith and Obedience**: Mary exemplifies unwavering faith and obedience to God's will. When the angel Gabriel announced that she would conceive Jesus, she responded with complete trust and submission: "Let it be done to me according to your word" (Luke 1:38). Her acceptance of God's plan, despite the challenges it posed, is a powerful example of faith and obedience for all believers.

**Humility and Service**: Mary's humility is evident in her Magnificat, where she praises God for looking upon her lowliness and exalting her (Luke 1:46-55). She also demonstrates a spirit of service by visiting her cousin Elizabeth to assist her during her pregnancy (Luke 1:39-45). Her humility and willingness to serve others are qualities that Christians are called to emulate.

**Maternal Love and Care**: As the mother of Jesus, Mary embodies the virtues of motherhood and unconditional love. She cared for Jesus from His birth, through His childhood, and even stood by Him during His crucifixion (John 19:25-27). Her maternal love and care are seen as a model for all mothers and caregivers.

**Perseverance and Suffering**: Mary experienced great joy as well as profound sorrow, such as witnessing the suffering and death of her Son. Her perseverance through these trials, while maintaining her faith, serves as an inspiration for Christians to remain steadfast in their faith during difficult times.

**Intercession and Advocacy**: Mary is often invoked as an intercessor and advocate for believers. Her role in the wedding at Cana, where she interceded with Jesus to perform His first miracle (John 2:1-11), highlights her compassionate and caring nature. Christians look to Mary as a powerful intercessor who brings their prayers and needs before God.

**Model of Discipleship**: Mary followed Jesus from His conception to His death on the cross, demonstrating perfect discipleship. Her life of faith, obedience, humility, and service provides a clear and inspiring example of what it means to be a true disciple of Christ.

These aspects of Mary's life and character make her a significant model for Christians, inspiring them to live lives of faith, humility, service, and perseverance.

¹: [Mary's Legacy: Understanding The Mother Of Jesus](^2^)

(1) Nativity of Mary | EWTN. https://bing.com/search?q=importance+of+the+Nativity+of+Mary+in+Christian+theology.
(2) The Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary – Young Catholics. https://young-catholics.com/4271/the-nativity-of-the-blessed-virgin-mary/.
(3) The Meaning of Mary's Nativity « Catholic Insight. https://catholicinsight.com/the-meaning-of-marys-nativity/.
(4) Nativity of Mary | EWTN. https://www.ewtn.com/catholicism/seasons-and-feast-days/nativity-of-mary-21252.
(5) Mary's Legacy: Understanding The Mother Of Jesus. https://theenlightenmentjourney.com/marys-legacy-understanding-the-mother-of-jesus/.

Friday, September 6, 2024

Nine First Fridays Devotion

The **First Fridays Devotion**, also known as the **Nine First Fridays Devotion** or the **Communions of Reparation to the Sacred Heart**, is a Catholic devotion in honor of the **Sacred Heart of Jesus**. This devotion aims to offer reparations for sins to the Blessed Sacrament.

The devotion consists of several practices performed on the first Fridays of nine consecutive months. On these days, a person is to attend Mass and receive the Eucharist with the intention of honoring the Sacred Heart and making reparation for sins. The nine First Fridays must be consecutive.

The First Friday devotion is associated with the Sacred Heart of Jesus, while the First Saturday devotion is associated with the Immaculate Heart of Mary. The devotion involves receiving Holy Communion on the first Friday of each month as a special act of reparation and love to the Sacred Heart of Jesus.

The **First Fridays Devotion** originated from the apparitions of Jesus Christ to **St. Margaret Mary Alacoque** in the 17th century at **Paray-le-Monial, France**. St. Margaret Mary reported visions of Jesus directing her to promote devotion to the **Sacred Heart of Jesus** on nine consecutive First Fridays. This devotion was intended to offer reparation for sins and to show love to Jesus.

The devotion was fully approved by the Roman Catholic Church, and a "Great Promise" of final penance was made to those who practice the First Fridays Devotion. This promise includes the grace of final repentance and the assurance of receiving the sacraments before death.

To observe the **First Fridays Devotion**, you need to follow these steps on the first Friday of each month for nine consecutive months:

1. **Attend Holy Mass**: Participate in the Holy Mass on the first Friday of each month.

2. **Receive Holy Communion**: Receive the Eucharist worthily with the intention of honoring the Sacred Heart of Jesus and making reparation for sins.

3. **Go to Confession**:

4. **Offer Each Holy Communion as an Act of Atonement**: Offer each Holy Communion as an act of atonement for offenses against the Blessed Sacrament.

To receive the Eucharist worthily, the following requirements must be met:

1. **State of Grace**: You must be in a state of grace, meaning you should not have any unconfessed mortal sins. If you have committed a mortal sin, you need to go to Confession before receiving the Eucharist.

2. **Faith in the True Presence**: You must have faith in the true presence of Jesus Christ in the Eucharist. Receiving without belief is considered sacrilegious and prevents you from receiving the grace Christ wants to give.

3. **Eucharistic Fast**: You should observe the Eucharistic fast, which typically means abstaining from food and drink (except water and medicine) for at least one hour before receiving the Eucharist.

4. **Proper Disposition**: Approach the Eucharist with reverence and a proper disposition. This includes being intentional, preparing through prayer, and actively participating in the liturgy.

5. **Follow-Up**: After receiving the Eucharist, offer a prayer of love and thanksgiving to Jesus for the gift of His Body and Blood.

While **adoration** is not a strict requirement for the **First Fridays Devotion**, it is a common and highly recommended practice. The primary requirements for the devotion are attending Mass and receiving Holy Communion on the first Friday of each month for nine consecutive months, with the intention of honoring the Sacred Heart of Jesus and making reparation for sins.

However, many parishes offer **Eucharistic Adoration** and **Benediction** as part of the First Friday observances. This allows the faithful to spend additional time in prayer and adoration before the Blessed Sacrament, deepening their devotion and love for the Sacred Heart of Jesus.

**Eucharistic Adoration** is a devotional practice in which the faithful worship the real presence of Jesus Christ in the Eucharist. This practice involves spending time in prayer and adoration before the Blessed Sacrament, which is the consecrated host that has been transformed into the Body, Blood, Soul, and Divinity of Jesus Christ.

During Eucharistic Adoration, the Blessed Sacrament is typically displayed in a monstrance, a special vessel designed to hold and display the consecrated host. The faithful are invited to come and spend time in the presence of Jesus, offering prayers, meditations, and acts of worship.

Eucharistic Adoration can be done individually or as part of a communal service. Some parishes offer **Perpetual Adoration**, where the Blessed Sacrament is exposed 24 hours a day, allowing the faithful to come and adore Jesus at any time.

The practice of Eucharistic Adoration helps deepen one's relationship with Jesus, fosters a sense of peace and spiritual renewal, and provides an opportunity for personal reflection and prayer.

**St. Margaret Mary Alacoque** emphasized the importance of **Eucharistic Adoration** in her visions and messages. During one of her mystical experiences, Jesus revealed to her the need for a "Holy Hour" of reparation, which involves spending time in adoration before the Blessed Sacrament. This practice was intended to make reparation for the offenses and ingratitude shown to the Sacred Heart of Jesus.

While Eucharistic Adoration is not a strict requirement for the **First Fridays Devotion**, it is highly recommended and aligns with the spirit of the devotion. Adoration allows the faithful to deepen their relationship with Jesus and show their love and reverence for the Blessed Sacrament.

(1) First Friday Devotion - Fatima. https://fatima.org/first-friday-devotion/.

(2) How to Observe First Fridays and First Saturdays. https://www.simplycatholic.com/how-to-observe-first-fridays-and-first-saturdays/.

(3) The First Friday Devotion to the Sacred Heart of Jesus. https://corjesusacratissimum.org/introduction-devotion-to-sacred-heart-of-jesus/the-first-friday-devotion-to-the-sacred-heart-of-jesus/.

(4) First Friday Devotion - The Catholic Crusade. https://thecatholiccrusade.com/first-friday-devotion/.

By observing these practices, we can fulfill the requirements of the First Fridays Devotion and receive the promises associated with it, such as the grace of final repentance and the assurance of receiving the sacraments before death.

The Apostle of Italy: A Story of Saint Bernardine of Siena

The Apostle of Italy: A Story of Saint Bernardine of Siena The wind howled through the narrow streets of...