Seven Founders of the Order of Servites

In the 13th century, seven Florentine saints founded the Servite Order, inspired by a vision of Mary, adopting a life of devotion under her guidance.

Saint Onesimus

Saint Onesimus, a first-century slave, transformed by St. Paul into a Christian, later became a bishop and martyr, epitomizing redemption and faith.

Saint Claude de la Colombière

Jesuit missionary, ascetical writer, spiritual director to St. Margaret Mary Alacoque. He died in 1682.

Saint Valentine

Saint Valentine, a Roman priest martyred for marrying Christians and aiding persecuted believers under Claudius II, was executed on February 14, circa 270.

Ash Wednesday

In the Roman Catholic Church, Ash Wednesday is the first day of Lent, the season of preparation for the resurrection of Jesus Christ on Easter Sunday. (In Eastern Rite Catholic churches, Lent begins two days earlier, on Clean Monday.)

Saint Agabus the Prophet

Saint Agabus the Prophet, one of the seventy disciples, and martyr. The seventy disciples were chosen by the Lord to go before Him to preach the gospel. St. Agabus was with the twelve disciples in the upper room on the day of Pentecost, and he was filled with the Holy Spirit, the Comforter.

Saint Julian

Saint Julian, patron of travelers and hoteliers, overcame tragedy through penance, founding an inn and hospital, and achieved redemption by aiding a divine visitor.

The Feast of Our Lady of Lourdes

Bernadette Soubirous, a humble girl from Lourdes, experienced Marian apparitions in 1858, leading to the worldwide veneration of Our Lady of Lourdes and miraculous healings.

Saint Scholastica

Devoted nun and sister of St. Benedict, St. Scholastica dedicated her life to God, founding a convent and sharing profound spiritual bonds with her brother.

Saint Maroun

Saint Maroun, a 4th-century ascetic and healer, inspired the Maronite Christian community, enduring extreme climates for spiritual growth in ancient Cyrrhus, near modern-day Turkey.