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🗓 Sunday, October 19 – Sts. John de Brébeuf, Isaac Jogues & Companions, North American Martyrs
Jesuit missionaries of the 17th century, these saints brought the Gospel to Native peoples in New France (Canada and upstate New York). Despite hardship, torture, and death, they persevered with courage and charity. Their blood sanctified the soil of North America, bearing witness to Christ’s love even in suffering.
🗓 Monday, October 20 – St. Paul of the Cross
Founder of the Passionist Order, Paul (1694–1775) was devoted to the mystery of the Cross. He preached Christ crucified with great fervor and called all to find love and redemption in His Passion. His contemplative life and missionary zeal gave new depth to devotion to the suffering Christ.
🗓 Tuesday, October 21 – St. Hilarion
A 4th-century hermit from Palestine, Hilarion studied under St. Anthony of Egypt and brought monastic life to Palestine. Known for miracles and asceticism, he lived in solitude and prayer, inspiring others to seek holiness in simplicity and detachment.
🗓 Wednesday, October 22 – St. John Paul II, Pope
Elected in 1978, John Paul II served as pope for over 26 years, one of the longest pontificates in history. A philosopher, poet, and tireless traveler, he proclaimed the dignity of the human person, the sanctity of life, and the mercy of God. He helped end Communist rule in his native Poland and throughout Eastern Europe. Canonized in 2014, he remains beloved as a shepherd of courage and hope.
🗓 Thursday, October 23 – St. John of Capistrano
A 15th-century Franciscan friar, preacher, and reformer, John was known for his fiery sermons and defense of the faith. He helped lead Christian forces in the defense of Belgrade against invasion and was celebrated as a model of zeal joined with prayer. Patron of military chaplains and lawyers.
🗓 Friday, October 24 – St. Anthony Mary Claret
Archbishop of Santiago, Cuba, and founder of the Claretians, Anthony Mary (1807–1870) was a dynamic missionary and confessor to Queen Isabella II of Spain. He preached across continents, promoted devotion to the Immaculate Heart of Mary, and suffered persecution for his reforms. His burning zeal for souls made him one of the 19th century’s great preachers.
🗓 Saturday, October 25 – Sts. Crispin & Crispinian
Brothers and Roman shoemakers who evangelized in Gaul, they used their trade to spread the Gospel and aid the poor. Martyred under Diocletian, they became patron saints of cobblers and leather workers. Their feast reminds us that holiness can flourish in any trade or craft sanctified by love.
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