St. Lawrence was born at Brindisi, Italy. He entered the Capuchin Franciscan community at Verona at the age of 16. He made rapid progress in his studies at the University of Padua, particularly in philosophy and theology and mastered Greek, Latin, Hebrew, French, Spanish, German and Bohemian languages. He also acquired a wide knowledge of the Scriptures. He worked as a domestic missionary after his ordination and then was called to Rome by Pope Clement VIII to work for the conversion of Jews. He was sent with 11 other Capuchins to establish Capuchin communities in 1598. These communities were threatened By Lutheranism at that time. His holiness, wisdom, and administrative ability were factors in his appointment by Emperor Rudolph III to organize the Catholic princes against the invading Turks. When the Christians were outnumbered four to one at the Battle of Stuhl-weissenburg, Lawrence mounted a horse and rode before the army holding a crucifix high and making a rousing speech. The Turks were turned away and Europe was saved. He finally returned to Italy where he sought seclusion but was elected Minister General of the Order. While on a mission to Portugal he died in 1619. He was a man of prayer as well as deep learning and was made a Doctor of the Church in 1960.
FEAST DAY: July 21
PATRON OF: Chefs, comedians
CHILDREN’S BOOKS
Responsorial Psalm
To the upright I will show the saving power of God.
QUIZ
Yesterday’s Answer-
Finding of Jesus in the Temple
Today’s Question-
When Jesus entered Jerusalem, what words did the people proclaim?
(a) “Jesus, Son of David, have mercy on us.” (b) “Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord.” (c) “Crucify him.”
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