St. John Brito was a native of Lisbon, Portugal and was dedicated at birth to St. Francis Xavier, and was a noble friend of King Pedro. He entered the Jesuits at the age of fifteen. In his effort to promote conversions among the native Indian people as a missionary to Goa, he wandered through Malabar and other regions and even adopted the customs and dress of the Brahmin caste which gave him access to the noble classes. In 1683, John had to leave India but returned in 1691. Arrested, tortured, and commanded to leave India, he refused and was put to death. Pope Pius XII canonized him in 1947. St. John Brito 1647 - 1693 Feast Day: February 4 Location: India Identifiers: Martyr Relic located in the: TBD Type of Relic: Sand from the place of martyrdom João de Brito was born in Lisbon, Portugal on March 1, 1647. While still a boy he was admitted among the pages of the King of Spain, but he became seriously ill: his mother made a vow to Saint Francis Xavier that, if her son recovered, she would have him wear the habit of the Society of Jesus for a year. This happened, but John asked to truly become a Jesuit. Ordained a priest in 1673, he was sent to India. His profound inculturation, which led him to adopt clothes and lifestyles similar to those of Indian ascetics, earned him numerous conversions. Being outside the regions controlled by the Portuguese, the Jesuits of Madurai lived according to specific characteristics. They had conformed to the native customs and, in the event of conflict or persecution by the local authorities, they could not expect help from the Portuguese or any other foreign power. Accepting this situation, they were able to establish a Christian Church independent of Western protection. To this end, a violent storm thwarted his plan. According to some, even among his compatriots, de Brito exaggerated in his methods of adaptation. The death sentence, however, had to be confirmed. John was brought before Raganata Tevar. He listened to an exposition of the Christian religion given by the missionary, and was so impressed that he ordered all Christian prisoners to be released. He added, however, that the law of John's God was not suitable for him or his people. He therefore ordered the missionary to be expelled from his kingdom, forbidding him to preach Christianity and threatening him with death if he did not obey. Shortly after these events, the provincial wrote to de Brito, informing him that he must leave for Europe, because he had been elected procurator of the Province. John reminded the provincial that he had vowed never to return to Portugal, but his objection was not accepted. He therefore left Goa on December 15, 1686, for his return to Europe. While in Portugal, he retained many of the habits he had followed in India: he continued to sleep on a mat and to eat only vegetables. To those who were surprised by his attitudes, he replied that his brothers in Madurai led a much more heroic and penitent life, exposed to constant dangers, and added that, being eager to return to India, he wanted to keep fit to return to action, if he were allowed. He had to overcome the resistance of those who wanted to keep him in Lisbon: this time, even the king himself and his ministers. Many told him that he could do much more for India by remaining in Europe. The king finally gave him permission to leave, but declared that he would recall him after two years. He even wrote to the general of the Society of Jesus, through his confessor Father Sebastião de Magalhães, to ask for the return of John de Brito to Portugal, but he obtained nothing. The missionary, later, on April 11, 1692, remembering these attempts, wrote to Father João da Costa: "I have always told Your Reverence that I did not think of returning to Portugal. I love heaven more than earth, the bushes of Madurai more than the palace of Portugal." While waiting to return to the East, John turned to the provincial, who was then Father André Freire, asking him to send him back to the mission in Madurai. He especially wanted to return to Marava, which he later obtained. Thanks to his activity, there were many conversions, even among the relatives of the Rajah, but these successes could not fail to provoke hatred and threats of revenge. Giovanni de Brito was aware of the situation, and on July 22, 1692 he wrote to Father João da Costa: "Now it is said that in Marava they hope to capture me and cut off my head, and thus put an end to the preaching of the Gospel in that land. If this is established, why speak? We will go to heaven sooner; and since the news is already very widespread, I judge that it is not the glory of God to leave these lands now." In fact, events precipitated. The latest events refer to the conversion of Tadaia Theva, who asked to be baptized by John de Brito, after being cured of an illness. Since he was a well-known figure and one of his wives was a cousin of the ra jah, his conversion could not go unnoticed. Making such an important person a Christian was the sure way to provoke a violent persecution. Therefore John gathered his catechists and the most influential Christians and exposed the problem. After these consultations, he was firmly determined to baptize the prince. He met with the catechumen and began to instruct him. He also explained to him what he considered a great obstacle: he must be prepared to live with only one of his wives, sending away the other four, and this would certainly provoke the anger of the rajah. The prince was not intimidated and declared that he was prepared to keep only his first wife and to exclude the others, among whom was the rajah's cousin. When it came to the baptism, it happened as expected: John was taken with his companions, and on January 28, 1693, they were all tried and condemned to death. The Rajah gave the order to shoot them and had them led to the place of execution. Tadaia Theva, surrounded by many Christians, came forward to tell the soldiers that they must kill him first. Fearing an uprising, the Rajah ordered the condemned men to be returned to prison and arranged for John to be transferred to Oriyur and handed over to Udaia Theva, his relative, to be executed. His companions were eventually released. On January 29, John was escorted to Oriyur, where he was beheaded on February 4. The night before, he wrote to Father Francisco Laínez, superior of the mission: "Now I hope to suffer death for my God and my Lord, sought twice in India, in the mission and in Marava: truly with great toil, but with an inestimable reward. The crime of which they accuse me is that of teaching the law of God our Lord, and that in no way should idols be worshipped. When guilt is a virtue, suffering is a glory." These are words that show the dedication of a European who has put aside, as much as possible, his Western style in order to transmit the spirit of Christ by adopting the ascetic practices of Indian penitents. Next Item Previous Item

Thank you for supporting the mission of St. Anthony of Padua. Check out different options to donate to our Parish and Ministries. Tax Advantaged Giving Giving Options Thank you for supporting the mission of St. Anthony of Padua Catholic Church! Below are different options for making a gift to our parish. For more information, check out the most commonly asked questions at the bottom of the page. If you still have questions, feel free to contact us at support@ap.church . Contact Us Questions General Offertory The financial support given through the General Offertory allows us to keep our buildings, our programs, sacraments, staff, and liturgies running smoothly. Giving is an expression of our gratitude to God for the blessings He has given us! Give Now Second Collections As Catholics, not only do we support our parish family, but also our greater community around us. The Archdiocese of Galveston-Houston second collections allow us to give resources to both our region and the world. Give to Second Collections Diocesan Services Fund The Diocesan Services Fund (DSF) is the annual appeal of the Archdiocese of Galveston-Houston that provides funding for essential ministries and programs that serve the religious, spiritual, and human needs of thousands of people from every parish. Give to DSF Outreach Ministries St. Anthony of Padua Catholic Church has approximately 100 active ministries serving the local and global community. Give to one of our various Outreach Ministries such as the Food Pantry, St. Vincent De Paul Assistance Ministry, and many more! Give to Outreach Planned/Legacy Giving Learn more about naming St. Anthony's in your will and designating assets such as retirement accounts, endowments, stock and investment accounts, bank accounts, saving bonds, life insurance, and other non-cash gifts. Planned/Legacy Giving Memorial Gardens Honor the memory of your loved ones with a lasting tribute at our parish. At St. Anthony of Padua, we offer a meaningful way to remember our loved ones in one of our memorial prayer gardens. Custom Pavers Parish Wishlist As the parish grows with time, some items need to be updated and refreshed. Click the button below to view our Parish Wishlist and how you can donate these items. Parish Wishlist Matching Gifts Did you know you can double your support without even giving a dollar more? Many corporations match employee donations to non-profit organizations like ours. Our EIN is 76-0545136. Contact Us Giving FAQs How do I change my payment method? Unfortunately, our parish staff is not able to edit your scheduled recurring giving amount or payment method for you. This is for your protection. Find detailed instructions on how to edit your card number, edit a card expiration date, change your bank account, change the dollar amount or frequency of your recurring gift here. Looking for your annual giving statement? Statements for 2023 were emailed on Friday, January 26, 2024, to donor accounts with annual giving to the email address found on your PushPay account profile from the address of no-reply@pushpay.com . If we have an EMAIL address for your profile in the PushPay system, you will receive an ELECTRONIC statement by email delivery. Detailed instructions on how to log into your PushPay account can be found here. ALL DONORS, regardless of how they give, have an online PushPay account. If you give cash in a giving envelope OR by check, we have created a PushPay account on your behalf and can help you get logged in to see your transactions and download a statement. If we do not have an email address for your profile in the PushPay system, but we do have a USPS mailing address, you will receive a PAPER statement by postal mail delivery IF you had a single contribution greater than $250 and we have a USPS mailing address for the donor. If you do not have an email address on file in PushPay and you do not have a mailing address on file in PushPay, we are happy to send you a statement upon request. Send your inquiry to support@ap.church . Want to stop receiving envelopes? Do you give online but still receive Giving Envelopes? By choosing to give online instead of by envelope, you will save the parish money and cut the cost of printing and shipping! Let us know you no longer want to receive envelopes by filling out the Envelope Change Request Form. Can I set up a Corporate Matching Gift? Corporate matching gifts are a type of philanthropy in which companies financially match donations their employees make to nonprofit organizations. When an employee makes a donation, they’ll request the matching gift from their employer, who then makes their own donation. Some companies have a policy against contributing to religious organizations, but will match donations made to institutions affiliated with houses of worship that provide a service to community members regardless of religious beliefs, such as St. Anthony’s Bread (the food pantry of St. Anthony of Padua Catholic Church). St. Anthony’s Bread is the 2nd largest distributor of food in Montgomery County, Texas. Please check with your employer to see if a Matching Gift can be made to either St. Anthony of Padua Catholic Church or to St. Anthony’s Bread. EIN is 76-0545136.

St. Rose of Lima, born Isabel Flores de Oliva in 1586, was known for her devotion to the Virgin Mary and her love for Christ. After her family fell into poverty, she worked hard while bringing Christian values to her community. She dedicated her life to prayer, penance, and helping the needy, especially children and the elderly. Despite her desire for cloistered life, she lived as a Dominican tertiary in seclusion. Known for miracles and mortifications, she was canonized in 1671. Rose is the first saint of the Americas, and patroness of Peru, Latin America, and the Philippines. St. Rose of Lima 1586 - 1617 Feast Day: August 23 Location: Location: Peru Identifiers: Virgin, Dominican Relic located in the: Right Reliquary Type of Relic: A piece of bone Isabel Flores de Oliva was born in Lima on April 20, 1586, the tenth of thirteen children of the Flores de Oliva, Spanish nobles who had moved to Peru. It was her nurse Marianna, of Indian origin, who gave her the name Rose because of the incredible beauty that characterized her. A name later confirmed at her confirmation and at the age of twenty when she wore the habit of the Third Order of Dominicans, like her model of life, Saint Catherine of Siena. The name "of Saint Mary" was then added to Rose, to express the tender love that always tied her to the Virgin to whom she turned at every moment to ask for protection. Santa Rose experienced poverty when her family fell into poverty due to the failure of her father's business; she worked hard as a maid, in the garden and as an embroiderer, until late at night, bringing the Word of Christ and her yearning for good and justice to the homes of buyers, which, in the Peruvian society of the time, crushed by colonizing Spain, seemed completely obscured. In her mother's house she created a sort of shelter for the needy, where she assisted abandoned children and elderly people, especially of Indian origin. Already as a child, Rose aspired to consecrate herself to God in the cloistered life, but she remained a "virgin in the world" and as a Dominican tertiary she locked herself in a cell of a few square meters, built in the garden of her mother's house, from which she left only for religious functions and where she spent most of her days praying and in close union with the Lord. While praying before an image of the Virgin Mary with Jesus in her arms, one day Rose heard a voice from that child that said to her: "Rose, dedicate all your love to me ...". She had no doubts: from then on, Jesus was her exclusive love until death, a love cultivated in virginity, prayer and penance. She often repeated: "My God, you can increase suffering, as long as you increase my love for you". It is the redemptive meaning of the Passion of Christ that became clear to her: pain lived with faith redeems, saves. And the pain of man can be associated with the saving pain of Christ. It is an interior turning point that coincided with the reading of Saint Catherine, from whom she learned love for the blood of Christ and love for the Church. And it is precisely in her hermitage in the garden that Saint Rose relived in the flesh the passion of Jesus, with two intentions: the conversion of the Spaniards and the evangelization of the Indians. In fact, mortifications and corporal punishments of all kinds are attributed to her, but also many conversions and miracles. One of all, the failed invasion of the Dutch pirates in Lima in 1615. While she was still alive, Rose was examined by a mixed commission of religious and scientific people who judged her mystical experiences as true "gifts of grace", so much so that at her death, due to the enormous crowd that attended her funeral, Rose was already a saint. She died only after having renewed her religious vows, repeating several times: "Jesus, be with me!". It was the night of August 23, 1617. After her death, when her body was transported to the Chapel of the Rosary, the Madonna from that statue before which the Saint had prayed so many times smiled at her again, for the last time. The crowd present cried out a miracle. In 1668, Rose was beatified by Pope Clement IX and canonized three years later. She is the first canonized saint of the New World and is the patron saint of Peru, of all Latin America, of the Indies and of the Philippines. She is invoked as the protector of florists and gardeners, against volcanic eruptions and also in case of wounds or for the resolution of family disputes. A Jubilee Year commemorated the 400th anniversary of the death of Saint Rose with the motto: “400 years interceding for you,” in reference to the thousands of prayers that the Saint received and answered over the course of four centuries. https://www.causesanti.va/it/santi-e-beati/rosa-da-lima.html Next Item Previous Item

Please call the Parish Office at 281-419-8700 if you have an EMERGENCY need for anointing and leave a message on our Priest Emergency line. We highly encourage anyone who is struggling with a serious illness of mind, body, or spirit, or who is anticipating surgery, to plan on attending one of our Anointing of the Sick masses. Anointing of the Sick Please call the Parish Office at 281-419-8700 if you have an EMERGENCY need for anointing and leave a message on our Priest Emergency line. We highly encourage anyone who is struggling with a serious illness of mind, body, or spirit, or who is anticipating surgery, to plan on attending one of our Anointing of the Sick masses. All Ages Next Item Previous Item Program Contact Susan Dewlen Executive Clergy Assistant sdewlen@ap.church 832-482-4121 The Catholic sacrament of Anointing of the Sick is intended for baptized Catholics suffering from serious physical, mental, emotional, or spiritual illness, especially when facing death. It is not restricted to terminal illness and can be administered multiple times if a person’s health worsens or they relapse. Here are some situations when the sacrament may be appropriate: Serious illness: Cancer, heart disease, chronic illnesses like Parkinson’s, or illnesses that could become life-threatening Advanced age: Elderly people who are weakened, even if not seriously ill Upcoming Surgery: When surgery is due to a serious illness. [Note that if the upcoming surgery is for body enhancements, procedures such as in-vitro fertilization, tubal ligation, a vasectomy, sex reassignment surgery, and so on, do not sign up for this sacrament and instead make an appointment with a priest by emailing sdewlen@ap.church ] Mental illness: Acute depression, anxiety that causes panic attacks or other debilitations, bipolar disorders, or psychoses (such as schizophrenia) Addiction: Drug or alcohol abuse, when it creates a dangerous situation to the person Unconscious or incapacitated: If the person would likely have requested the sacrament Children: If they have sufficient reason (usually 7 years old or older) and would be comforted by this sacrament [if you are not sure, make an appointment or a phone call with a priest by emailing sdewlen@ap.church to schedule it]. If a child is under the age of 7, and has never been baptized, and it has been determined that the child is terminal by a physician, that child can be baptized and confirmed immediately. The sacrament is meant to provide spiritual and physical strength, unite the sick with Christ, and offer courage and peace to endure suffering. While the sacrament forgives venial sins, it does not forgive mortal sins, so if the person is healthy enough, he or she should ask the priest to hear his or her confession and receive absolution before receiving this sacrament of the anointing of the sick. We will have Intercessory Prayer Teams available on the third Saturday of the month immediately following the 10:00 am daily Mass. There is no registration required for those who have a prayer request. Upcoming Anointing of the Sick Masses The Catechism of the Catholic Church states: In the Church's Sacrament of Anointing of the Sick, through the ministry of the priest, it is Jesus who touches the sick to heal them from sin – and sometimes even from physical ailment. His cures were signs of the arrival of the Kingdom of God. The core message of His healing tells us of His plan to conquer sin and death by His dying and rising. The Rite of Anointing tells us there is no need to wait until a person is at the point of death to receive the Sacrament. A careful judgment, by the priest, about the serious nature of the illness is sufficient. When the Sacrament of Anointing of the Sick is given, the hoped-for effect is that, if it be God's will, the person be physically healed of illness. But even if there is no physical healing, the primary effect of the Sacrament is a spiritual healing by which the sick person receives the Holy Spirit's gift of peace and courage to deal with the sufferings that accompany serious illness or the frailty of old age.

Our Sacrament Preparation (First Reconciliation and First Communion) program is a collaboration between our Parish, the Family and the Child. Click below to find out more about the program, requirements, and registration.  First Communion - Child Our Sacrament Preparation (First Reconciliation and First Communion) program is a collaboration between our Parish, the Family and the Child. Click below to find out more about the program, requirements, and registration. 2nd-8th Grade Next Item Previous Item Program Contact Leslie Bevilacqua Sacramental Preparation Coord (Bilingüe) lbevilacqua@ap.church 832-482-4062 Diane Czerniak Elementary FF Manager dczerniak@ap.church 832-482-4037 We look forward to helping your child prepare for their First Reconciliation and First Communion. Review the following to determine if you and your child are ready to enter the “Sacramental Preparation Program.” Registration for First Communion and Reconciliation is from August 1st to August 31st and can be found at ap.church/registration . BAPTIZED - Your child has received Catholic Baptism or made a Profession of Faith FORMATION YEAR 1 - Your child completed the previous year of weekly faith formation with good attendance JESUS - Your child knows Jesus through prayer and knows the sacrifice He made for our sins FORMATION YEAR 2 - Your child is receptive to weekly and monthly formation sessions led by you and the parish SUNDAY MASS - Your child attends Mass with your family every Sunday and desires to receive Jesus in the Eucharist IS YOUR CHILD READY? Does your child meet the 6 requirements below? Your child was baptized or made a Profession of Faith in the Catholic Church Your child is at least in 2nd Grade AND at least 7 years old at the time of Sacramental Preparation begins in September Your child completed 1 year of Faith Formation or Catholic School with good attendance during the 2024-2025 School Year For the 2025-2026 School Year, your child will need to be enrolled in 2 programs Your child has a relationship with Jesus, and desires to receive Him sacramentally in the Eucharist Your child understands sin and desires God’s forgiveness and mercy in the sacrament of Reconciliation IS YOUR FAMILY READY? Can you say YES to the following? Or are you committed to saying yes? If you answer “No” to any question below, let’s devise together the best way forward that meets your family's needs! Jesus Christ desires to be in communion with you. Please contact Leslie or Diane to set up a phone or in-person appointment. Do you attend Holy Mass every Sunday and Holy Day of Obligation? Does your family go to sacramental Confession at least once a year? Do you pray regularly at home? Are you able to attend Monthly Family Sessions AND Weekly Formation AND lead your child in 1st Communion/Reconciliation Lessons at home? Can the parent and the child understand the content present in the family sessions?

The ending of a marriage is a difficult experience. Many marriages end in divorce in spite of good intentions. We are sensitive to the pain and stress a failed marital relationship brings to those involved. We are here to assist those who want to know more about how to file a petition for an annulment. Annulments The ending of a marriage is a difficult experience. Many marriages end in divorce in spite of good intentions. We are sensitive to the pain and stress a failed marital relationship brings to those involved. We are here to assist those who want to know more about how to file a petition for an annulment. 18+ years old Next Item Previous Item Program Contact Mary Batey Communications & Chapel Manager mbatey@ap.church 832-482-4115 The ending of a marriage is a difficult experience and we are sensitive to the pain and stress that a failed marital relationship brings to those involved. We are here to assist those who want to know more and those who want to file a petition for an annulment. Throughout this journey various questions will arise. I ask that you read through the FAQ’s provided and familiarize yourself with what an Annulment is. Please note…There are different types of nullity petitions. To ensure that you do not complete an incorrect petition form, you must FIRST consult with a Case Sponsor. A Case Sponsor is a priest, deacon or lay person designated by the parish who determines what type of petition you must complete and assists you in the preparation of the petition. (There is no fee associated with obtaining a petition form or for the services of a Case Sponsor.) Your Case Sponsor will guide you in the paperwork and how to answer the questions. Their job is to review the petition and help you finalize the answers so that it is ready to be signed and sent to the Tribunal. A petition will NOT be accepted without a Case Sponsor. The first step in the annulment process is to fill out the request form so we can capture your information and help determine what type of petition is needed for your case. Annulment FAQ's Annulment Meaning & Explanation Annulment Request Form What is an annulment? Does a declaration of nullity make my children illegitimate? I am not Catholic and have no intention of becoming Catholic. Why do I have to petition? How can the Church apply its understanding of marriage on me when I am not Catholic? Why does a Catholic have to be married by a Catholic priest or deacon? I thought the Church respected the integrity of all marriages. What are the consequences if a Catholic is married “outside” the Catholic Church? May I receive the Sacraments if I am Catholic, divorced and not remarried? May I receive the Sacraments if I am Catholic, divorced and remarried? Why does the Catholic Church punish me by not allowing me to receive the Sacraments?

Saint Gemma Galgani’s life was a testament to extraordinary faith and profound suffering. From a young age, she displayed a deep devotion to Christ, often experiencing mystical visions and receiving the stigmata. Gemma’s life was marked by illness and tragedy, losing her parents, and enduring her own physical ailments. Despite these challenges, she embraced her suffering as a means of union with God and offered her life as a sacrifice for the salvation of souls. Gemma’s unwavering trust in divine providence, coupled with her ardent love for Jesus, earned her recognition as a saint and an enduring inspiration for believers worldwide. St. Gemma Galgani 1878 - 1903 Feast Day: April 11 Location: Italy Identifiers: Virgin, Passionist Sister, Stigmata Relic located in the: Right Reliquary Type of Relic: A piece of bone In the small town in northern Tuscany, a radiant soul named Gemma Galgani was born into a devout Catholic family on March 12, 1878. The fourth child of eight children to Enrico Galgani and Aurelia Landi, Gemma lived a life marked by extraordinary sacrifice and suffering. But amidst her experiences of pain came powerful spiritual experiences that would forge a remarkable devotion to prayer and a burning desire to unite herself entirely with Christ. As a young girl, her mother fell victim to tuberculosis, enduring a long battle with the illness. Gemma had learned her first lessons of Christian piety from her beloved mother, and grappled severely with her looming death. Gemma received the sacrament of Confirmation on May 26th, 1885, and with it came the first of her heavenly communications that would continue throughout much of her life. According to Gemma, a voice in her heart spoke up following the Confirmation Mass, asking, “Will you give me your Mamma?” Gemma replied, “Yes, if you take me as well.” “No,” the voice replied back. “Give me your Mamma without reserve. I will take you to heaven later.” Gemma could hardly bring herself to respond, but still answered “Yes” before running home in tears. Her mother died a few months later. Gemma was eight years old. Shortly after her mother’s passing, Gemma was sent to the school of the Sisters of St. Zita in Lucca. It was here that she developed a greater understanding of prayer and a devotion to the Passion of Christ that she began to meditate on daily. Her school life would be brought to an abrupt end though by a painful illness. A small injury to her foot, which she thought little of, resulted in a severe infection that caused her to be bedridden for months. An operation was necessary, but Gemma refused any anesthetics – fixing her eyes on the crucifix and enduring the surgery silently, amazing the doctors. This illness was followed by an even graver one – spinal tuberculosis, which left her bedridden once again. But despite her repeated physical ailments, Gemma’s spirit remained indomitable. Her love for the Eucharist was unmatched, as she often spent hours in adoration, immersing herself in the presence of her beloved Jesus. In February of 1899, the doctors pronounced Gemma’s health as hopeless and she received her Last Sacraments. Her pitiful condition drew friends and family members to her bedside, and one of them left her the book titled “Life of Venerable Gabriel Possenti”. She read the book several times, developing a special devotion to him. It was Gabriel himself who would appear to Gemma in March of 1899, and ask her, “Do you wish to be healed?” Gemma answered in her heart, “Whatever You will, O Jesus!” and she was miraculously healed. With her health restored, Gemma’s spiritual life flourished, growing in intensity and fervor. She had more intense visions and ecstasies, many of which filled her with an intense desire to suffer with Jesus, and become a victim for the salvation of souls. On June 8th, 1899, while praying with Jesus in His sufferings, she received the stigmata, coming out of the vision to find blood flowing from her hands, feet and side. The wounds would appear every Thursday evening, with Gemma continually pleading for mercy for sinners as her own blood darkened the bandages on her body. As she grew older, Gemma desired to become a nun, but was met with immediate opposition. Upon asking for admission to the convent in Corneto, Italy, the Reverend Mother there turned her away, having heard about Gemma’s illness and cure, and the reported extraordinary graces that surrounded her. Convinced that such a mystic would not be suitable for their contemplative community, she denied Gemma’s admission. Additional attempts were made by her spiritual director and confessor, without any effect. Nonetheless, Gemma began to live the life of a nun as much as she could, outside of the cloister. She had already made a vow of chastity previously during her illnesses, and now added vows of poverty and obedience to her life. She wore the Sign of the Passion on her heart underneath her clothing, and recited the Divine Office every day. Even with the wounds of the Stigmata appearing weekly, Gemma found this opportunity to be the greatest sacrifice of her life – the sacrifice of her vocation. One morning after receiving Holy Communion, she heard Jesus speak to her, “But, do you know, My child, that there is a life still happier than that of the Convent?” She let these words lead her for the remainder of her life, humbly serving everyone around her in love. On the feast of Pentecost in 1902, Gemma was suddenly stricken with another severe illness, which would be the final one for her to endure. She prayed unceasingly, offering up her suffering as pains racked her body. Nearly two months later, on Holy Saturday, she passed away at the age of 25. So joyous and peaceful did she appear to those present that they found it difficult to convince themselves that she was actually dead. Gemma Galgani was beatified by Pope Pius XI on May 14th, 1933, and canonized by Pope Pius XII on Ascension Thursday, May 2nd, 1940. Despite dying without being clothed an official Passionist, her life still greatly furthered the order. In one of her first letters to her spiritual director, Passionist Father Germanus, she had written in extreme detail the establishment of a Passionist convent in Lucca, following her denial from the convent in Corneto. There was not even the thought of such a project at the time, but Gemma repeatedly prayed for the coming of nuns to Lucca. She even searched the town of Lucca more than once for a suitable location for a potential convent. Despite minimal traction being made during Gemma’s life, she remained hopeful, telling those close to her that the foundation would occur after her passing, in the year of the Beatification of St. Gabriel. Just two years after her death, a group of Passionist Sisters arrived in Luca and established a new convent in 1908, just two months after the beatification of St. Gabriel. Today, Saint Gemma’s relics are housed at the Passionist monastery located in Lucca. Saint Gemma lived an extraordinary life of holiness and virtue, embracing suffering rather than running from it. She stands as a powerful intercessor in heaven, ready to assist those who call upon her for help, and she calls us to deepen our relationship with Christ, to embrace the cross in our own lives, and to strive for holiness. Next Item Previous Item

Nearly everything known about Saint Monica comes from the writings of her well-known troublemaker of a son, Saint Augustine, but it’s believed Monica was born around 332 A.D. in the town of Tagaste (present-day Algeria). Married to a pagan Roman official, they had three children but none could compare to Augustine, who Monica spent countless nights praying and fasting for. She even followed him to Rome, where she joyfully witnessed his conversion and baptism in 387. Known as the “Mother of the Virtues”, she is the patron saint of both difficult marriages and difficult children. St. Monica 332 - 387 Feast Day: August 27 Location: Tagaste (present-day Algeria) Identifiers: Mother of St. Augustine Relic located in the: Left Reliquary Type of Relic: A piece of bone The life of Saint Monica gave her every opportunity to be a bitter mother, a nagging wife, and a lukewarm Christian, but instead, she patiently persevered through every difficulty and is now known as a holy, virtuous saint. Nearly everything known about Saint Monica comes from the writings of her well-known troublemaker of a son, Saint Augustine, so many facts and dates are unconfirmed in their exact detail. Regardless, it is believed Monica was born around the year 332 A.D. in North Africa, in the town of Tagaste (present-day Algeria). She was married off at a young age to Patricius, a pagan Roman official. Patricius inherited his mother’s violent temper, and it was just Monica’s luck that her mother-in-law also lived with the couple, leading to more than the occasional temper flare. It is written that Monica’s prayers and Christians beliefs “deeply annoyed” Patricius, but he is said to have nonetheless respected her beliefs. Still, there was animosity between the couple when the topic of baptism arose for their three children, Augustine, Navigius, and Perpetua. Despite Monica’s pleadings, Patricius wouldn’t allow them to be baptized Christians, until their son Augustine fell ill. Seeing her distress, Patricius finally agreed, only to withdraw his consent when the boy recovered. Monica was undeterred by her brutal husband and irritable mother-in-law, even when Patricius’ infidelity caused further rifts in their marriage. Monica prayed for their conversion every night, and slowly but surely won them over for the Lord. Patricius finally converted and was baptized one year before his death. During that time of Patricius’ gradual conversion, their three children were growing up in drastically different directions. Perpetua and Navigius both entered religious life, but their oldest son Augustine, who had recovered from his previous ailments, became lazy and coarse in his life decisions. When Patricius passed away, Monica, distressed about her son’s future, sent the 17-year-old Augustine to Carthage for schooling. Unfortunately, Carthage would provide Augustine ample opportunity to further fall into immorality, greatly wounding Monica’s heart. He had become a Manichaean, a 3rd century heretical religion focused on “all flesh is evil” and other non-Christian views. When Augustine finished his education, he returned home to his mother and when he shared his newfound views with her, she drove him away, refusing to allow him to eat or sleep in her house. Monica spent many tearful nights praying earnestly for her son’s conversion. Despite their estrangement, she soon had a vision that assured her Augustine would one day return to the faith, and that she needed to reconcile with her wayward son. Determined to bring her son closer to Christ, but still distraught about his current religious views, she visited a local bishop who consoled her with the words “the child of those tears shall never perish.” From that time on, Monica began earnest fasting and prayer for her son, staying as close to him as possible, which for the future Saint Augustine, was sometimes a little too close. At the age of 29, Augustine made the decision to travel to Rome to teach rhetoric. Naturally, Monica was determined to join him in order to keep a close and prayerful eye on him, an idea which Augustine wasn’t overly fond of. He attempted to stealthily depart for Rome without his mother by telling her he was going down to the docks to say goodbye to a friend, only to instead jump on a ship himself and sail away. The inspired Monica refused to allow her son to slip away from her again, and she soon set a course for Rome herself. When she arrived, she learned he had just traveled further on to Milan. So too did Monica. Her pursuit of her son led her to the doorstep of a third future saint in this journey, the wise Saint Ambrose. Ambrose was the Bishop of Milan who Augustine quickly came under the influence of thanks to his deep theological knowledge and influence. He also became Saint Monica’s spiritual director, and she accepted his advice in everything, humbly growing in holiness alongside her son, who she continued to pray for day and night. After six months in Milan, Monica was able to joyfully witness Augustine finally joining the church, being baptized by Saint Ambrose on Easter in the year 387, at St. John the Baptist church. Following his baptism, Monica and Augustine departed for Africa, where they felt called to spread the word of God, but although no one else was aware of it, Monica knew her journey was nearing its end. While stopped on their way in the Roman city of Civitavecchia, Monica fell severely ill, and eventually passed away. Augustine’s recording of her final words paints the picture of a loving mother who desired nothing more than to pursue her son in order to return him to the embrace of Christ. “Son, nothing in this world now affords me delight. I do not know what there is now left for me to do or why I am still here, all my hopes in this world being now fulfilled.” Monica’s remains were buried in Ostia, and then later moved into a hidden crypt in the church of Santa Aurea during the 6th century. Monica’s witness and sanctity despite an unfaithful husband and a faithless son led to a strong following of faithful believers, and a feast in her honor was held every year on May 4th. In 1430, Pope Martin V ordered Monica’s relics be brought to Rome for veneration. As her relics were being transported to Rome, numerous miracles were said to have occurred along the path, further spreading the legend of Monica of Hippo. Her relics would eventually find their home in the Basilica di Sant’Agostino, a church built to honor Saint Augustine. Her funeral epitaph survived in ancient manuscripts about her life, until in 1945, while digging a hole to plant a football post, two young boys found the original stone epitaph of Saint Monica. Translated, the tablet’s Latin message titled Saint Monica “Mother of the Virtues.” Today, she is the patron saint of married women, difficult marriages, difficult children, alcoholics, victims of adultery or unfaithfulness, victims of verbal abuse, and conversion of relatives. Patience in prayer is one of the hardest skills to master in our faith journey; we want God to give us answers and give us answers now! We should look to the witness of patient Saint Monica, who trusted that years and years of prayer, paired with strong, unshakeable virtues, would eventually bring the souls of her husband, her mother-in-law, and even her headstrong son, to be where were all so greatly desire – basking fully in the love of Jesus Christ. Next Item Previous Item

Saint Peter –the first Pope and rock upon which Jesus built His church – is one of the greatest stories of redemption and love in the Bible. His bold faith was gained from humble beginnings, repeated missteps, and a stubborn trust that Jesus Christ was truly God. Jesus loved his Apostles dearly but was also unafraid to correct the words and actions of the fallible, fragile humans He chose to be His closest followers. Peter, an inquisitive, brash, hopeful follower of Christ, was the perfect leader of this group and provided the foundation for the Church we still have today. He shares his feast day on June 29th with St. Paul. St. Peter the Apostle 1st Century Feast Day: June 29 Location: Jerusalem Identifiers: Apostle, Martyr Relic located in the: Center Reliquary Type of Relic: A piece of bone Saint Peter – the most outspoken apostle, the first Pope, the rock upon which Jesus built His church – is one of the greatest stories of redemption and love in the Bible. His bold faith that would ultimately change the world was gained from humble beginnings, repeated missteps and a stubborn trust that Jesus Christ was truly God. It is nearly impossible to fully encompass all of Peter’s deeds in the Bible. His adventures are recounted throughout the Gospels, the Acts of the Apostles, and numerous letters of St. Paul; his name appears a total of 187 times in the New Testament. As prominent of a role Peter played in Jesus’ ministry, we know very little about his life prior to his conversion. Tradition places his birth in the 1st century BC, and he was originally named Simon. He lived in the village of Bethsaida, near the Sea of Galilee, and scripture (as well as most historians) point to him having been married. Him and his brother Andrew were both fisherman by trade and Peter owned his own boat. It was in this boat that Peter’s life was changed forever. Matthew 4:18-19, Mark 1:16-17, and Luke 5:1-11 all depict Jesus encountering Peter as he was fishing on the Sea of Galilee. As the crowds listening to Jesus pressed in, He hopped into Peter’s boat and asked him to put out from the shore. Obeying the preacher, Peter rowed out so Jesus could continue to teach the people. After Jesus finished speaking, He turned to Simon Peter to teach one of the most important lessons Peter would ever learn: trust in Him. “When he had finished speaking, he said to Simon, “Put out into deep water, and let down the nets for a catch.” Simon answered, “Master, we’ve worked hard all night and haven’t caught anything. But because you say so, I will let down the nets.” Simon Peter, already sensing the prominence of Jesus by calling Him “master”, obliged the request, and upon seeing the miraculous catch of fish they procured, fell to his knees in front of Jesus. “Go away from me, Lord; I am a sinful man!” But Jesus instead called him deeper, replying, “Don’t be afraid; from now on you will fish for people.” So, they pulled their boats up on shore, left everything and followed him.” The Gospel of John tells a slight variation of when Simon Peter first met Jesus, including an earlier name change than the other three Gospels. John 1:35-42 tells of Andrew, the brother of Simon Peter, hearing John the Baptist cry out, “Look, the Lamb of God!” as Jesus passed by. After Andrew heard this, he immediately ran to find his brother and tell him, “We have found the Messiah.” Jesus, meeting Simon for the first time, greeted Simon with a gift: a new name. “You are Simon son of John. You will be called Cephas” (which, when translated, is Peter).” In all of the Gospels, Jesus began to travel throughout the region after he had called His first disciples. He taught in synagogues, healed sicknesses and attracted large crowds everywhere He went. How awestruck must these first Apostles have been witnessing these miracles and hearing the Sermon on the Mount as written in Matthew 5. Just a few chapters later, Simon Peter witnesses a very personal miracle, as Jesus visits his mother-in-law, sick in bed with a fever. Matthew 8:14-15 tells of Jesus “touching her hand and the fever left her.” The faith of Peter was growing. That faith would be tested though later in Matthew 8, when the experienced fisherman found himself caught in a furious storm while out in a boat with Jesus, who was sleeping. The Apostles, many of whom were likely still just beginning to grasp the divine abilities of Jesus, frantically awoke him saying “Lord, save us! We’re going to drown!” Matthew 8:26: “He replied, “You of little faith, why are you so afraid?” Then he got up and rebuked the winds and the waves, and it was completely calm.” Sitting in the boat, an astonished Simon Peter stared at the calm waters which just seconds ago had been raging all around him. His faith was growing. Another miracle that Jesus would perform not long thereafter points to Simon Peter beginning to form a particular group with James and John out of the twelve Apostles. When a synagogue leader named Jairus earnestly pleaded with Jesus to heal his dying daughter, as written in Mark 5:21-43, Jesus would eventually only bring Peter, James, and John into the home to witness the healing. Perhaps it was for them to witness the mourners laughing at Jesus as He announced “The child is not dead, but asleep” or maybe Jesus wished Peter to see those miraculous steps the little girl took towards Him after she was resurrected. No matter what Jesus’ motives, it’s clear that this trio of Apostles (who would also be the only ones present at the Transfiguration of Jesus and were called deeper by Jesus into the Garden of Gethsemane) were special. It’s clear throughout the Bible that Simon Peter was essentially the “spokesman” of the twelve Apostles. Whenever they are all listed by name (Matthew 10:2-4; Mark 3:16–19; Luke 6:14–16; Acts 1:13), Peter is mentioned first. On a few occasions, when multiple Apostles were present or speaking, only Peter is specifically mentioned by name and the others are merely with him (Mark 1:36; Luke 8:45). His authority was recognizable by others as well; Matthew 17:24 tells of the collectors of the temple tax approaching Peter specifically to question him regarding Jesus. Peter – displaying remarkable insight, developing a depth to his faith, but still harboring reservations and doubts – was the perfect representative of the Apostles, as stubborn and foolhardy as they often were. Matthew 14 and Matthew 16 both contain a monumental event in Peter’s life and both of them are preceded with a misstep or misunderstanding by the Apostles. In Matthew 14, Jesus attempts to retreat to a solitary place following the death of John the Baptist. Crowds followed Him regardless, and while still mourning the loss of His close friend, Jesus “had compassion on them and healed their sick.” As night fell though, the worn-out disciples implored Jesus to dismiss the crowds so they would go away to buy themselves food and leave them alone. Jesus, likely beginning to prepare the Apostles for their ministry following His ascension into heaven, replied, “They do not need to go away. You give them something to eat.” And while they could only muster five loaves and two fish, Jesus taught them an important lesson that night: despite their “little faith” (Matthew 8:26, 14:31, 16:8, 17:20), what they have is enough. After five thousand were fed and twelve baskets of leftovers collected, Jesus instructed the disciples to get into a boat (a recurring location of transformative moments in Peter’s life) and meet Him on the other side. Jesus dismissed the crowds and retreated up the mountainside to pray alone. As the night grew later, the Apostle’s boat traveled a “considerable distance from land” as the wind had picked up. As they continued to traverse across the lake and dawn approached, an impossible sight appeared: a man, Jesus himself, walking on the water. Matthew 14:26-27: When the disciples saw him walking on the lake, they were terrified. “It’s a ghost,” they said, and cried out in fear. But Jesus immediately said to them: “Take courage! It is I. Do not be afraid.” Then, Simon Peter took a leap of faith. “Lord, if it’s you,” Peter replied, “tell me to come to you on the water.” “Come,” he said. Simon Peter, a normal fisherman from Bethsaida, stepped out of the boat. Eyes fixed on Jesus, he began to walk across the water. But as the wind picked up, his gaze on the Lord wavered and he instead looked at the waves all around him. Afraid and sinking into the cold water, Simon Peter cried out, “Lord, save me!” There was no hesitation at all by Jesus. Matthew 14:31 – “Immediately Jesus reached out his hand and caught him. “You of little faith,” he said, “why did you doubt?”” Peter and Jesus returned to the boat, where the incredulous Apostles began to worship Jesus saying, ““Truly you are the Son of God.” Two chapters later, the second prominent milestone of Peter would take place, and it was preceded with Jesus yet again questioning the Apostles and their little faith while in a boat. Matthew 16:5-12 depicts Jesus and the Apostles traveling across a lake. The Apostles had forgotten to pack bread for their journey, and Jesus took the opportunity to begin teaching them to be on their guard against “the yeast of the Pharisees and Sadducees.” The Apostles took the words in a literal sense (as they too often did) and began to discuss the teaching among themselves, as they assumed it was a form of chastisement from Jesus brought forth due to their forgetfulness. Matthew 16:7 – “They discussed this with one another and said, “It is because we have no bread.” This reaction is unique for a number of reasons. Firstly, prior to this journey they had witnessed Jesus on multiple occasions supernaturally multiply bread right in front of them. Secondly, both scripture passages of this story (Mark 8:14-21 also tells of this moment) specifically displays them discussing this apparent chastisement by Jesus just among themselves, without including Jesus in the conversation. The all-knowing Jesus immediately cuts into the chatter and makes it clear that His teaching is regarding something much more serious than baking ingredients. Matthew 16:9 – Do you still not understand? Don’t you remember the five loaves for the five thousand, and how many basketfuls you gathered? Or the seven loaves for the four thousand, and how many basketfuls you gathered? How is it you don’t understand that I was not talking to you about bread? But be on your guard against the yeast of the Pharisees and Sadducees.” It’s not hard to imagine a stunned silence filling the boat, as Simon Peter and the other Apostles realized the profundity of Jesus’ words and the deeper meaning He was speaking to them. Arriving in the region of Caesarea Philippi, these thoughts were likely still swirling in Simon Peter’s head as Jesus turned to His disciples and asked: “Who do people say the Son of Man is?” The first replies were hesitant and non-committal: “Some say John the Baptist; others say Elijah; and still others, Jeremiah or one of the prophets.” Then, Jesus presented the most important question they’d ever face. Matthew 16:15 – “But what about you?” he asked. “Who do you say I am?” It was Simon Peter who stepped up for his second leap of faith. Matthew 16:16 – “Simon Peter answered, “You are the Messiah, the Son of the living God.”” This was the first outright proclamation by an Apostle that Jesus was truly the Messiah – the one promised by God to save His people. It was a significant moment, and the response by Jesus was also significant. Matthew 16:17-18 – “Jesus replied, “Blessed are you, Simon son of Jonah, for this was not revealed to you by flesh and blood, but by my Father in heaven. And I tell you that you are Peter, and on this rock, I will build my church, and the gates of Hades will not overcome it.” Simon Peter had become the foundation of the future Catholic Church, but just a few verses later, it was clear that his sturdiness was still under construction. With everything slowly falling into place for Jesus to fulfill His mission, He began to explain what was soon to come. Peter however, still riding high from being given the keys of the kingdom, wasn’t too fond of the idea of his closest friend going to Jerusalem to be killed. Matthew 16:22 – “Peter took him aside and began to rebuke him. “Never, Lord!” he said. “This shall never happen to you!”” Jesus replied with a stinging rebuke of His own, one that likely cut Peter to the core. Matthew 16:23 – “Jesus turned and said to Peter, “Get behind me, Satan! You are a stumbling block to me; you do not have in mind the concerns of God, but merely human concerns.”” The teaching that followed from Jesus, as Peter stood reeling from the swift reproachment, was one that would shape the lives of many future holy men and women of the Catholic Church. Matthew 16:24-25 – “Then Jesus said to his disciples, “Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross and follow me. For whoever wants to save their life will lose it, but whoever loses their life for me will find it.”” As sharp as this moment was for the future saint, Peter took it in stride. He experienced the wonder of the Transfiguration of Jesus just six days later, at which he had the unique opportunity of being interrupted by God Himself, speaking down from the clouds. Matthew 17:4-5 – “Peter said to Jesus, “Lord, it is good for us to be here. If you wish, I will put up three shelters—one for you, one for Moses and one for Elijah.” While he was still speaking, a bright cloud covered them, and a voice from the cloud said, “This is my Son, whom I love; with him I am well pleased. Listen to him!”” Peter and his fellow Apostles continued to do just that, but they found themselves dumbstruck while listening to Jesus on the first day of the Festival of Unleavened Bread, as they sat around the table to eat: one of them would betray the Messiah and Peter would deny Jesus three times. Jesus, alluding again to His death, had foretold the desertion of the Apostles and Peter’s response again resolutely denied this charge: “Even if I fall away on account of you, I never will.” Matthew 17:34-35 – ““Truly I tell you,” Jesus answered, “this very night, before the rooster crows, you will disown me three times.” But Peter declared, “Even if I have to die with you, I will never disown you.” And all the other disciples said the same.” But try as he might to prevent Jesus from being taken away later that night, going so far as to strike the servant of the high priest with his sword and cut off his ear, Peter was forced to witness the betrayal of Judas and arrest of Jesus. Peter, his world crashing down all around him, retreated to the courtyard as Jesus was brought before the high priests, who mocked and scorned his friend, his leader, the Son of Man. First, a servant girl came to him: “You also were with Jesus of Galilee,” she said to Peter as Jesus was spit at and struck. He uttered his first denial – “I don’t know what you’re talking about.” Then, a second slave woman noticed him and said to the people around them – “You too were with Jesus the Galilean.” As bloodthirsty cries for Jesus, who had called Peter out into the depths, to be put to death rung out in the courtyard, Peter denied him again – “I do not know the man. And a final time, as more bystanders noticed his accent and came up to him with accusations, he began to curse and swear, crying out – “I do not know the man!” Immediately, a rooster crowed, and the devastating words of Jesus Christ had come true: Peter had denied Jesus three times. Just before Jesus was led away to face Pontius Pilate, be crowned with thorns, and ultimately crucified upon Golgotha, He locked eyes with Peter, who was filled with sorrow. He left the courtyard and wept bitterly. But the tomb would not remain occupied for long, and redemption was on its way to Peter. All four Gospels tell of the Resurrection of Jesus, with the Gospel of John providing unique details to the discovery of the empty tomb. After Mary Magdalene discovered the stone had been rolled away, it was Peter who she ran to in distress, believing someone to have taken the body of Jesus from the tomb. Simon and John immediately ran to the tomb, with John arriving first but remaining outside. Peter however, arrived at the tomb and went straight in. Stunned, Peter saw the strips of linen and the cloth that had been wrapped around Jesus’ head, lying on the ground. The immensity of what had happened was beginning to dawn on them. Even when Mary Magdalene told them of her seeing Jesus risen from the dead, many of the Apostles were likely still in a state of tense disbelief while together later that day in the locked upper room. But before they knew it, Jesus was there, standing in their midst. He would appear in the room again a week later to prove He had returned to Thomas the Apostle, who had been absent at the first reappearance. But it was the third time Jesus appeared to His disciples after being raised from the dead that was most significant for Peter. John 21:1-14 tells of the Apostles once again on the Sea of Galilee. Peter, likely still yearning for a chance to reconcile with Jesus after his denials, had returned to his original occupation and familiar pastime: fishing. In a reflection of the first time Peter had encountered Jesus, they were fishing without success until a man on the shore called out to them. John 21:5-6 – “He called out to them, “Friends, haven’t you any fish?” “No,” they answered. He said, “Throw your net on the right side of the boat and you will find some.” When they did, they were unable to haul the net in because of the large number of fish.” The disciple whom Jesus loved immediately cried out “It is the Lord!” and that was all Peter needed to hear. Refusing to even wait for the boat to return to shore, Peter sprung into the water and swam the roughly hundred yards to shore, where Jesus was preparing a familiar breakfast of bread and fish. It was after this meal that Jesus finally spoke to Peter, but the conversation did not go how the future saint likely expected. John 21:15 – “When they had finished eating, Jesus said to Simon Peter, “Simon son of John, do you love me more than these?” “Yes, Lord,” he said, “you know that I love you.” Jesus said, “Feed my lambs.”” Twice more Jesus would ask Peter, “Do you love me?” and a perplexed Peter responded earnestly in affirmation but was hurt by what he perceived as a lack of trust between Jesus and himself on account of the repeated questions. “Lord, you know all things; you know that I love you,” Peter responded to Jesus’ final question. But it was not an absence of trust that had led Jesus to ask Peter three times, but instead an opportunity for redemption – the three denials of Jesus had now been countered with three declarations of love. With that conversation Jesus reinstated Peter; the betrayal had been superseded by an ultimate act of forgiveness and love. Peter was at the head of a flurry of activity following the Ascension of Jesus Christ, which is depicted clearly in the Acts of the Apostles. He was in charge of appointing the replacement of Judas Iscariot, he was the first to preach following the descent of the Holy Spirit at Pentecost (which was so powerful that 3,000 people asked to be baptized following his preaching), and he even was the first one to defend the Church by rendering judgement upon anyone who sought to damage it (the first case being Ananias and Sapphira for lying about their almsgiving). He was even the first Apostle to perform a miracle of healing. A crippled beggar, cast down lame on the side of the road by some affliction, asked Peter for some money. While he had none on him, he instead told the man that in the name of Jesus the Nazarene, to arise and walk. Immediately cured of his lameness, the beggar stood up and was able to walk freely. As the Apostles began to fan out across the regions, Peter was instrumental in spreading the message of Jesus, but not without coming into conflict with the Jewish authorities, still dismayed by the boldness being displayed by the followers of the man they had put to death. Acts 4 tells of Peter and John being brought before the same high priests who had not long ago been spitting upon Jesus, to question their power to teach the people. Peter, filled with the Holy Spirit, delivered a matchless declaration that it was by the name of “Jesus Christ of Nazareth, whom you crucified but whom God raised from the dead” that they did their mighty deeds. The high priests were astonished that these “unschooled, ordinary men” could have such wisdom and courage and they quickly attempted to threaten and silence them. But it was the faith of Peter, growing steadily through every miracle and misstep he had experienced in his journey with Jesus Christ, that led him to boldly reply, “we cannot help speaking about what we have seen and heard.” Even when King Herod attempted to arrest and persecute some who belonged to Christ’s Church, including Peter, God had other plans for him. Acts 12 depicts Peter, bound with chains, freed and guided out of the prison by an angel; an escape so miraculous that when he arrived at the house of Mary, the mother of John, he had to knock multiple times before they believed it was truly him to let him in! On and on the stories continue, as Peter preached to countless regions and races, converting hearts for the Lord. We don’t know precisely the events towards the end of his life and details such as whether he ever physically resided in Rome, but testimony of Peter’s martyrdom is widespread. Following the Great Fire of Rome in A.D. 64, the emperor Nero wished to place the blame on Christians for the fire that had destroyed their city. Three months after the fire, on the “dies imperii” of Nero assuming power (the ten-year anniversary of him ascending the throne), Church tradition tells of Peter being sentenced to death by crucifixion at Vatican Hill. Peter had initially been encouraged to flee the city by his followers, in order to escape persecution, but stories tell of Peter coming across Christ, heading the other way as he fled the city. Peter asked Jesus, “Lord, where are you going?” Jesus replied, “I am going to Rome to be crucified again.” Realizing he is about to make the same mistake he made when denying Jesus three times, Peter turned around to return to Rome and accept his martyrdom. The death of Peter had been foretold by Jesus during that fateful breakfast next to the Sea of Galilee: “when you are old you will stretch out your hands, and someone else will dress you and lead you where you do not want to go.” However, Peter felt he was unworthy to die in the exact same manner that Jesus had, so he made one final request: to be crucified upside down. Most historians believe he died between the ages of 62 and 67. Most recounts of Saint Peter’s life tell of him having been buried in Rome near Vatican Hill. It was at his burial site that in the early 4th century, Emperor Constantine I built a large basilica in honor of Peter. The exact location of Peter’s body and relics were largely a mystery until 1950, when human bones were discovered beneath the altar of St. Peter’s Basilica. Believing these to belong to Saint Peter, an excavation began in 1953 that unearthed St. Peter’s tomb in Jerusalem (bearing the name Simon) as well as the tombs of other apostles. More excavations were conducted in the 1960s, which eventually led to Pope Paul VI in 1968 announcing that the relics they had discovered belonged to the Apostle Peter. Finally, on November 24, 2013, Pope Francis revealed the relics of nine bone fragments for the first time to the public during a Mass celebrated in the very square that bore Peter’s name. Jesus did not coddle the twelve Apostles. He loved them and cared for them deeply, but He was unafraid to correct the course of their words and actions. Fully God and fully man, He purposely selected fallible, fragile humans to be His closest followers. Saint Peter, an inquisitive, brash, hopeful follower of Christ, was the perfect leader of this group and provided the foundation for the Church we still love and cling to today. As the waves of our life rise, and the winds blow all around us, may we keep our eyes on Jesus as Peter did, and walk towards him with trust and faith. Next Item Previous Item

Our Sacrament Preparation (First Reconciliation and First Communion) program is a collaboration between our Parish, the Family and the Child. Click below to find out more about the program, requirements, and registration.  First Reconciliation - Child Our Sacrament Preparation (First Reconciliation and First Communion) program is a collaboration between our Parish, the Family and the Child. Click below to find out more about the program, requirements, and registration. 2nd-8th Grade Next Item Previous Item Program Contact Leslie Bevilacqua Sacramental Preparation Coord (Bilingüe) lbevilacqua@ap.church 832-482-4062 Diane Czerniak Elementary FF Manager dczerniak@ap.church 832-482-4037 We look forward to helping your child prepare for their First Reconciliation and First Communion. Review the following to determine if you and your child are ready to enter the “Sacramental Preparation Program.” Registration for First Communion and Reconciliation is from August 1st to August 31st and can be found at ap.church/registration . BAPTIZED - Your child has received Catholic Baptism or made a Profession of Faith FORMATION YEAR 1 - Your child completed the previous year of weekly faith formation with good attendance JESUS - Your child knows Jesus through prayer and knows the sacrifice He made for our sins FORMATION YEAR 2 - Your child is receptive to weekly and monthly formation sessions led by you and the parish SUNDAY MASS - Your child attends Mass with your family every Sunday and desires to recieve Jesus in the Eucharist IS YOUR CHILD READY? Does your child meet the 6 requirements below? Your child was baptized or made a Profession of Faith in the Catholic Church Your child is at least in 2nd Grade AND at least 7 years old at the time of Sacramental Preparation begins in September Your child completed 1 year of Faith Formation or Catholic School with good attendance during the 2024-2025 School Year For the 2025-2026 School Year, your child will need to be enrolled in 2 programs Your child has a relationship with Jesus, and desires to receive Him sacramentally in the Eucharist Your child understands sin and desires God’s forgiveness and mercy in the sacrament of Reconciliation IS YOUR FAMILY READY? Can you say YES to the following? Or are you committed to saying yes? If you answer “No” to any question below, let’s devise together the best way forward that meets your family's needs! Jesus Christ desires to be in communion with you. Please contact Leslie or Diane to set up a phone or in-person appointment. Do you attend Holy Mass every Sunday and Holy Day of Obligation? Does your family go to sacramental Confession at least once a year? Do you pray regularly at home? Are you able to attend Monthly Family Sessions AND Weekly Formation AND lead your child in 1st Communion/Reconciliation Lessons at home? Can the parent and the child understand the content present in the family sessions?