Augustine was born at Tagaste in North Africa in 354. At first he followed his mother’s example and advice but later fell into a licentious way of life: “My sins increased like a rolling snowball,” he wrote in his Confessions. In her distress, Monica turned to God in prayer and tears and remained with her…

The Church, having celebrated the earthly birthday of St. John the Baptist on June 24, today honors the anniversary of his martyrdom. Besides Our Lord and Our Lady, St. John the Baptist is the only one whose birth and death are thus celebrated. Today’s Gospel relates the circumstances of his execution. He had the courage…

A century after the discovery of the New World there was born at Lima, the capital of Peru, the first flower of holiness to bloom in South America. Her name was Isabella but her fresh complexion earned her the name of Rose by which she is always known. From her childhood she lived solely for…

St. Raymund Nonnatus, who devoted his life to the ransoming of Christians held prisoner by the Mohammedans, was one of the first members of the Order of Our Lady of Ransom founded by St. Peter Nolasco and St. Raymund of Penafort. Having been sent to Africa he obtained the freedom of many captives; he offered…