FEASTS OF THE WEEK
Thursday 30th July : St. Peter Chrysologus
Born at Imola, Italy. During his life he was well known for his fine homilies, earning him the name "Chrysologus" meaning golden-worded. Bishop of Ravenna. Died c. the year 450.
Friday 31st July : St. Ignatius of Loyola (1491-1556)
From the north of Spain. He was on his way to military fame and fortune when a cannon ball shattered his leg. During convalescence he took to reading about the lives of Christ and some Saints. This led to his long and gradual conversion. He founded the Society of Jesus (Jesuits). By the time of his death, the society had spread widely and had over one thousand members. His great theme was the service of God and God's greater glory. His spirituality is expressed in the Jesuit motto "Ad majorem Dei gloriam" (All for the greater glory of God).
Saturday 1st August : St. Alphonsus Liguori (1696-1787)
Founder of the Redemptorist Congregation, he taught much on moral theology and the spiritual life. He is remembered as a popular preacher and influential writer of theology.
Sunday 2nd August : 18th Sunday in Ordinary Time
Like the manna in the desert, bread in plenty for the crowds is seen as a sign of the coming of the kingdom and of the heavenly banquet in the end times. The actions of Jesus in the desert are described in the same way as his actions at the Last Supper: he takes, blesses, breaks and gives.
Tuesday 4th August : St. John Vianney (1786-1859)
He had to contend with poverty, military service and his own intellectual shortcomings in order to become a priest. In 1817 he was sent to care for the people of a small, obscure French village called Ars. The marvellous gift of the unlearned priest for seeing into the depths of the soul brought the world to Ars. From 1830 on, the curé averaged twelve to sixteen hours a day in the confessional.
He was beatified by Pope Pius X 08/01/1905 and canonised by Pope Pius XI 31/05/1925.
Patron of priests.
Wednesday 5th August : Dedication of the Basilica of St. Mary Major
The basilica was built by Pope Sixtus III after the Council of Ephesus (431). It is the first church in the West named in honour of the Mother of God.
Pope Francis, who died on 21/04/2025, chose his place of burial to be in the Basilica of St. Mary Major.
Thursday 6th August : The Transfiguration of the Lord
The Cross requires the exodus of Jesus, His death, resurrection and glorification. The disciples have to realise that He must depart, just as they are now prepared for His going up to Jerusalem to die.
Saturday 8th August : St. Dominic (1170-1221)
A Spaniard who founded the Order of Preachers (Dominicans).
Patron of astronomers.