Image of Saint Peter Damian By Edward Matulanya  Learn about Saint Peter Damian, a 11th-century monk, theologian, and Doctor of the Church. His feast day, miracles, and contributions to Church reform explained. 1. Identity and Importance of Saint Peter in the Catholic Church Saint Peter Damian is celebrated as a key figure of 11th-century Church reform, a Benedictine monk, hermit, theologian, cardinal-bishop, and Doctor of the Church. His life exemplifies the Catholic belief that authentic renewal comes from holiness, prayer , and obedience , and that saints play a continuing role in guiding the Church in times of crisis (Catholic Encyclopedia, 1911; Benedict XVI, 2009; CCC, 827; Ratzinger, 2005). 2. Early Life, Education, and Vocation of Saint Peter Born in Ravenna, Peter Damian was orphaned and endured poverty. He was educated by his brother Damian, whose instruction and moral example inspired him (Butler, 1990). Despite his intellectual gifts and opportunities for worldly s...

Image of Saint Jacinta Marto By Edward Matulanya  Learn about Saint Jacinta Marto; Fátima visionary, child saint, model of holiness, and intercessor for families and sick children. Introduction Saint Jacinta Marto (1910–1920) is one of the youngest canonized saints of the Catholic Church, recognized for her heroic virtue , Marian devotion , and redemptive suffering (Catechism of the Catholic Church [CCC], 1997, §§66–67; Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith [CDF], 2000; Francis, 2017). Her life demonstrates how children can achieve holiness through obedience , prayer, sacrifice, and love . 1. Visionary of Our Lady of Fátima Jacinta was chosen to witness and transmit the Fátima apparitions (CDF, 2000; John Paul II, 2000). For example; she consistently testified under civil interrogation, demonstrating fidelity and courage (de Marchi, 1952; Santos, 2016). The lesson is; God works through the humble and persevering (Benedict XVI, 2010). 2. Child Seer of Fátima Spiritual in...

Image of Saint Conrad of Piacenza By Edward Matulanya  Learn about Saint Conrad of Piacenza, celebrated on 19 February. His life of penance, charity, and miraculous intercessions guides Catholics in faith and virtue. 1. Saint of the Day February 19 February Saint Conrad of Piacenza (1290–1351) is commemorated on 19 February for his exemplary repentance, moral courage, and lifelong devotion to God (Butler, 1990; CCC, 1997). For e xample;  Liturgical calendars and Catholic devotional guides present him as the saint of the day, emphasizing moral conversion (Catholic Church, 2004). The l esson is; d aily remembrance of saints encourages Catholics to pursue holiness in everyday life (Hebrews 12:1; CCC, 828). 2. Feast Day of Saint Conrad of Piacenza His feast appears in the General Roman Calendar and local Franciscan calendars, highlighting penitential spirituality (Second Vatican Council, 1963). For e xample;  Franciscan communities mark the day with prayers , fasting, and r...

Image of Ash Wednesday marks the start of Lent By Edward Matulanya  Learn about Ash Wednesday, Holy Week, fasting, almsgiving, and daily reflections according to the Catholic Church, with examples and lessons. 1. What Is Lent in the Catholic Church? Lent is a 40-day season of prayer , fasting, and almsgiving to prepare Catholics spiritually for Easter (Catholic Church, 1997; McBrien, 2011). For example; Catholics may attend Mass more frequently and reflect on their sins. The lesson is; lent teaches repentance, self-discipline, and spiritual growth.  2. The History of Lent in Catholicism Originating from early Christian baptism preparation, Lent evolved into a universal period of penance (Bradshaw & Johnson, 2014; Ratzinger, 2000). For example; early Christians fasted for 40 days before Easter baptism. The lesson is; tradition connects modern Catholics with the faith of the early Church.  3. Start and End of Catholic Lenten Season of 2026 Lent begins on Ash Wednesda...

Image of Saint Bernadette Soubirous By Edward Matulanya  Learn about Saint Bernadette Soubirous, the humble visionary of Lourdes, her miracles, life, and feast day in the Catholic Church. 1. Who Is Saint Bernadette Soubirous in the Catholic Church? Saint Bernadette Soubirous is recognized by the Catholic Church as the humble witness of the Lourdes apparitions and a model of faith and simplicity (Catechism of the Catholic Church [CCC], 1997; John Paul II, 1997). For example; born into poverty in Lourdes, France, she suffered illness but showed deep trust in God’s will (Ruffin, 2013; Laurentin, 2002). The lesson is; holiness is rooted in humility and trust in Divine Providence (CCC, §§489, 544; Benedict XVI, 2008). 2. Life of Saint Bernadette Soubirous According to Catholic Teaching After the apparitions, Bernadette chose the hidden life of a religious sister, embodying the virtues of obedience and simplicity (Vatican, 1862/2002; Second Vatican Council, 1964). For example; she ser...

Image of Seven Holy Founders of the Servite Order By Edward Matulanya  Learn about the Seven Holy Founders of the Servites. Understand their founding of the order, dedication to Mary, examples of holiness, and the miracles that inspire Catholics worldwide. Introduction The Catholic Church commemorates the Seven Holy Founders of the Servite Order on February 17, honoring their collective response to God’s call, their profound Marian devotion, and their witness to communal holiness. Their lives demonstrate that sanctity is not solely an individual pursuit but also an ecclesial reality lived in fraternity, obedience, and service (Vatican II, 1964; Butler, 1995). 1. Saints of February 17 in the Roman Catholic Church This feast highlights saints whose lives reflect unity, humility, and Marian spirituality. The Church commemorates the Seven Holy Founders collectively, emphasizing the communal nature of holiness (Congar, 1965). For e xample; u nlike most saints honored individually, the S...