Author name: sanjose

Saint Anthony Zaccaria

During the same time when Martin Luther was attacking abuses in the Church, a reformation within the Church was already being attempted. Among the early movers of the Counter-Reformation was Anthony Zaccaria. His mother became a widow at 18, and devoted herself to the spiritual education of her son. He received a medical doctorate at …

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Saint Elizabeth

Elizabeth was a Spanish princess who was given in marriage to King Dennis of Portugal at the age of twelve. She was very beautiful and very lovable. She was also very devout, and went to mass every day. Elizabeth was a holy wife, but although her husband was found of her at first, he soon …

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Saint Thomas

Poor Thomas, little is known about him, yet he made one remark and has been branded as the “Doubting Thomas” ever since. But if he doubted, he also believed. He made what is certainly the most explicit statement of faith in the New Testament: ” My Lord and My God!’ and, in so expressing his …

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Saint Oliver Plunkett

Born in Country Meath in 1629, Oliver studied for the priesthood in Rome and was ordained there in 1654. After some years of teaching and service to the poor  of Rome he was appointed Archbishop of Armagh in Ireland. Archbishop Plunkett was arrested and imprisoned in Dublin Castle in 1679, but his trial was moved …

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Saint Junipero Serra

Born on Spain Island of Malloroca, Serra entered the Franciscan Order taking the name of Saint Francis, childlike companions as Brother Juniper. Until he was 35, he spent most of his time in the classroom first as a student of theology and then as a professor. He also became  famous for his preaching. Suddenly he …

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