FEASTS OF THE WEEK
Friday 24th July : St. Declan
Considered to be one of the pre-Patrician saints. He was of noble blood. Colman, a local priest, baptised him. Later he went to Europe to continue his studies where he was ordained priest and possibly bishop. He settle in Ardmore and evangelised the Decies country.
Saturday 25th July : St. James
Son of Zebedee and brother of John, called the Greater. He was put to death by Herod Agrippa about the year 44, being the first of the Apostles to die for Christ.
His shrine is at Compostella in Spain.
Sunday 26th July : 17th Sunday in Ordinary Time
World Day of Grandparents and the Elderly
Listening to the word of God enables us to acquire true wisdom. By it we learn where our true good lies, that it means more than silver and gold. This wisdom helps us to make the right choices in our search for the real treasure. We ought to pray for the ability to make the positive, radical decision for the Kingdom. Jesus asks us all, "Have you understood all this?".
Wednesday 29th July : Ss Martha, Mary and Lazarus
They welcomed Jesus as a family friend. Martha generously offered him hospitality, Mary listened attentively to his words and Lazarus promptly emerged from the tomb at the command of the One who humiliated death.
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.