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.