This holiday’s roots stretch back to the 4th century when Christians sought to solemnly venerate Roman martyrs some 300 years after the resurrection of Christ. In that period, persecution against Christians
came in “waves,” said Father Michael Bruno, dean of seminarians and professor of church history at St. Joseph Seminary and College at Dunwoodie, Yonkers.
African American Catholics plan to visit the Vatican in November to promote the cause for Mother Mary Lange, one of six African American Catholics who are candidates for sainthood.
Bishop Robert Brennan celebrated the Solemnity of All Saints Day Mass at the Shrine Church of Saint Jude with student from Our Lady of Trust Catholic Academy.
The saints were not “starched,” picture-perfect conformists, Pope Francis said; they were “countercultural and revolutionary.”
Christian joy is neither a passing emotion nor an optimistic worldview but a sign of holiness that bears witness to God’s love, even in the direst circumstances, Pope Francis said on the feast of All Saints.
In celebration of All Saint’s Day, Nov. 1, here is a starter in getting to know some of the lesser-known saints who, like all members of the Communion of Saints, have important stories worth preserving and sharing in Brooklyn, Queens, and beyond.
Saint Philomena, the patron saint of youth and babies, died on Aug. 10, 304, at the age of 13. She was canonized in 1837 and her feast day is Aug.11. An interesting fact is that she died on a Friday at 3 p.m. just like when Jesus did on Good Friday.
