December Saints

December 3. St. Francis Xavier

Born in the Castle of Xavier in Spain in 1506, Francis traveled to Paris in 1525 and studied in the University of the Sorbonne. There he encountered St. Ignatius Loyola and joined the developing Society of Jesus. The times during which he lived coincided with some of the greatest discoveries of the 15th and 16th centuries, in which the Church also became aware of the need to announce the gospel throughout the world. Francis Xavier founded the mission in Asia. In 1542, after a journey of a year and three months, he landed with his companions in Goa, capital of India colonized by the Portuguese. In the 10 years of his ministry he journeyed through India, Malacca, the Moluccas, and Japan. Everywhere he went, Francis Xavier founded new Christian communities. He died at the age of 46 when he was considering going to China, which up until then barred foreigners. He was in the island of St. Shang-ch'wan when he became gravely ill. He died on December 3, 1552. Together with St. Thérèse of Lisieux, he is the patron saint of missions.

Your turn
Have you ever felt the need to follow the calling to announce the gospel beyond the boundaries of your community or city? What would appeal from such a calling? What would cause you the greatest fear?

December 14. St. John of the Cross

He was born in Spain in 1542. Ordained as a priest in 1567—period in which he met Teresa of Avila—he felt enthusiastic about the idea of reforming the Carmelite convents, which had become laid-back in their customs. Together with Teresa of Avila, John of the Cross is recognized as one of the most important Catholic mystics. His main works of spirituality are The Ascent of Mount Carmel, The Dark Night of the Soul, and
O Living Flame of Love. He suffered persecution, at times, even from the Carmelite monks. He died in 1591.

Your turn
What would hurt the most from your friends’ rejection? What changes do you feel called to make in your society and surroundings? What difficulties would you face? Would you dare to try it?

December 22. St. Frances Xavier Cabrini

Born in 1850 in Sant'Angelo Lodigiano, Lombardy, Italy. She suffered from poor health and decided to abandon her teaching career to join the Missionary Sisters of the Sacred Heart of Jesus. Because of her poor health, the order did not accept her. In 1880, following the advice of her bishop, she founded the Missionary Sisters of the Sacred Heart to provide religious instruction to youth. In 1889 she traveled to New York to work with Italian immigrants. There she built convents, schools, and hospitals. She traveled extensively, crossing the Atlantic up to 19 times. Her work spread to Chicago and California, as well as throughout Latin America. She is the patron saint of immigrants.

Your turn
Would you change your plans if you felt the calling of God? What cause would you take up with the greatest passion?

December 26. St. Stephen

He is the first martyr of Christianity. St. Stephen was a Jew from the diasporas who lived in Jerusalem and was one of seven deacons selected by the Apostles to assist the needs of the community. His martyrdom signaled the rupture between Christianity and Judaism. St. Stephen was accused of subverting the laws and customs and criticizing the institutions and structures that were considered sacred.

Your turn
In what ways would you consider serving your community? What are the needs that you observe in your surroundings?

December 28. Holy Innocents

When Jesus was born, King Herod has been reigning in Judea for 30 years. When he learns from the Magi of the birth of Jesus in Bethlehem, he planned to kill the newborn. Perceiving he had been deceived by the three wise men, he became angry and ordered every male child under the age of 2 be killed. But an angel warned Joseph to flee with Mary and the child to Egypt, saving them. The church celebrates on this date the feast of the Holy Innocents.

Your turn
Just like in those days, there still are many attacks against innocent lives. What do you believe can be done in defense of life?

December 31. St. Sylvester

A native of Rome, he ruled the church as pope from 314 to 335. The conversion of Constantine changed the church’s destiny and Christians were no longer persecuted and could openly profess their beliefs. Furthermore, the emperor took the initiative to build the first basilicas where the people could convene for great solemnities. Under the guidance of Sylvester the first ecumenical council in the history of the church was held: the Council of Nicaea in 325, where the divinity of Christ was defined. Sylvester is one of the first saints not martyred.

Your turn
What responsibilities do you have? Do you think you could be called to a position of leadership? Does it scare you or does it appeal to you?