During November we remember the communion of saints starting on the first of the month when we celebrated the Solemnity of All Saints. This communion of saints is always with us, so we should challenge ourselves to stay connected with them all year round!
As you get to know individual saints, you will come to find that virtually all of them were common, ordinary people, who went on to live extraordinary lives and witness to their faith in amazing ways. My ‘go to’ prayer guide is the Magnificat, which includes our daily scripture readings, reflections, and lives of the saints. The daily feature on a saint may be about someone who I am familiar with, and often times it’s about a saint that I’ve never heard of.
November 11, Veterans Day, is the Memorial of St. Martin of Tours, Bishop. St. Martin is the patron saint of soldiers, and I really enjoyed reading about the “God moment” that changed his heart. Here’s what the Magnificat had to say about St. Martin on his feast day…
Martin was born in Pannonia (modern Hungary) and became a catechumen at the age of ten. While serving in the Roman Army, he met a poor, half-clothed man outside the city gate of Amiens. Martin drew his sword and divided his own cloak in two, giving half to the naked man. That night, he saw Jesus in a vision. “Martin, who is still a catechumen, gave me this robe”, our Lord told the angels. After this, Martin “flew to be baptized.” After he resigned from the army, he founded a monastic community in Gaul (modern France). In 372 he was elected Bishop of Tours, where he served his flock with great care until his death in 397.
What a neat story! Can you imagine having a dream where Jesus is sharing a story with the angels about a kind deed that you did? Those kind of “God moments” are often life-changing. By our baptism, we are all called to be saints. A great way to nourish our souls is to read about and reflect upon the lives of the saints. I know you will be amazed at what you’ll discover!
Here’s an easy way to stay connected to the communion of saints all year round… Simply, go to www.Franciscanmedia.com and click on the “Saint of the Day” tab. There is an option to enter your email address to subscribe, at no cost. Then, Franciscan media will send you an email each day that provides more information about the life of that saint along with a brief reflection. It’s a great way to help feed your soul all year round!
God bless you and your family.