Blessed Bartolo Longo (1841-1926)by Theresa Cavicchio
Sanctity can reveal itself in many ways, as evidenced by even a quick glance at the lives of the saints. The story of Blessed Bartolo Longo, who will be canonized on October 19th this year, is a case in point. It reveals not a straight path toward sainthood, but rather a circuitous route paved with inherently dangerous implications for the fate of his soul.
June 3
“Your example, even more than your words, will be an eloquent witness to the world.”
-Saint Madeline Sophie Barat
June 2
“For by doing what God demands of us with total surrender of our innermost being, we cause the divine life to become our own inner life. Entering into ourselves, we find God in our own selves.”
-St. Teresa Benedicta
June 1
“Do not waste the hour after Holy Communion, which provides you with so favorable an opportunity for acquainting Him with your interests. Realize that this time is very precious for the soul.”
-St. Teresa of Avila
May 31
“Whatever God gives and permits: temptations, being tried by people... or any sort of trouble, He gives and permits it for our good, either to cleanse us of our sins, or for our growth in perfection and grace.”
-St. Catherine of Siena
May 30
“One life is all we have and we live it as we believe in living it. But to sacrifice what you are and to live without belief, that is a fate more terrible than dying.”
-St Joan of Arc
May 29
“Do not be afraid. Do not be satisfied with mediocrity. Put out into the deep and let down your nets for a catch.”
-Pope Saint John Paul II
May 28
“For in this century, we must no longer count on men to preserve the faith. The grain of faith that will be saved will hide itself among women. A woman cannot remain neutral in the world. She too is set for the fall and resurrection of many.”
-St. Madeline Sophie Barat
May 27
“How often have I thought that I may owe all the graces I’ve received to the prayers of a person who begged them from God for me, and whom I shall know only in heaven.”
-St. Thérèse of Lisieux
May 26
“When God sends his inspirations into a man’s heart, the first one He gives is that of obedience.”
-St. Francis de Sales
