Saint of the Month - April 2025: Blessed Pauline von Mallinckrodt

 

Bl. Pauline von Mallinckrodt

A Light to the Blind

Memorial: April 30th

This month this ministry features Bl. Pauline von Mallinckrodt, a little-known German foundress of a Catholic Congregation. She was born on June 3, 1817 in the town of Minden and baptized with the name Maria Bernardine Sophia Pauline.  Her family was well-to-do being that her father, Detmar, was a government official.  He was a Lutheran but Pauline’s mother Marianna was a highly devout Catholic who raised her children in the Faith.

Given Detmar’s work, Pauline and her three siblings received an excellent education and afforded luxuries reserved only for the privileged: abundant food, fine clothing, social status, servants, extensive travels, etc.  Despite her family’s affluent lifestyle, the Beata developed a deep piety from her early youth, which was expressed via a deepening devotion towards the Blessed Sacrament and a compassionate heart for the less fortunate.

Biographies relate how young Maria affectionately cared for her father and siblings after her mother passed away from typhus when she was 17-years-old … and her loving concern extended to the hired help, who Maria treated with solicitude and nursed when they were ill.  This kindness she strove to live by extended outside of the Mallinckrodt home reaching out to the poor with whom she shared her monetary allowances and whatever other alms she could provide.

After Maria’s father retired from public service in 1840, the family relocated to Paderborn where she was drawn to a group of pious women who charitably assisted the sick-poor in the community.  She joined this association while entertaining the notion of becoming a Vincentian Sister of Charity, even going so far as to visit their motherhouse in Paris (where St. Catherine Laboure received her Miraculous Medal apparitions) to get an idea of what religious life would be like.

It soon became evident that Maria was the immerging leader of the charity she was a member of.  Through her initiative, their ministry opened a school to ensure children and orphans were not only educated, but also protected from neglect in the wake of the chaotic Industrial Revolution of the early 1800s.  In addition, an opportunity arose to establish a special school for blind children, which Maria also took on.  Both projects prospered and the work quickly grew beyond what was easily manageable for her and her companions.  Besides that, the Beata was still planning to become a nun.

Bl. Pauline in her youth

In 1846, Maria traveled to France to meet with another religious founder – Mother Madeleine Sophie Barat (now a Saint) – with the intent of turning over the administration of the school for the blind to St. Madeleine’s congregation.  Things, however, didn’t turn out the way she hoped as the German/Prussian government was unwilling to have a French organization – even a religious one – operating on German soil. Following this major setback, Maria consulted with the Archbishop of Cologne who encouraged her to start her own congregation to continue and propagate the charisms of charitable service and Christian education that she was already doing.  After prayerful consideration, she founded the Sisters of Christian Charity (SCC) in Paderborn in August 1849, along with three companions, and became its first superior under the name of Mother Pauline.

It should be mentioned that in the hustle and bustle of her daily life and work, Pauline had, for some time, been receiving Holy Communion daily with the Church’s permission (it was uncommon in her time to do so).  This was the secret to her burning charity and the drive she possessed to serve the Lord in serving others – the Eucharist and deep prayer were the fuel to her fire.  After establishing her congregation, she was able to have the Blessed Sacrament reserved in the chapels of her religious houses and made it a rule for her spiritual daughters to attend daily Mass.

Pauline spent her remaining years growing the SCC ministry.  Within the span of the next 25 years, they had over 200 members working in 20 establishments in Germany before branching out to other countries beginning in June 1873 when a group of her nuns sailed to New Orleans, USA (the first of over two dozen houses of charity/schools in the US!).  Other requests for the SCC also came in from Argentina, Chile, and Uruguay where there was an influx of German immigrants in the second half of the 1800s … so Mother Pauline sent her daughters there, too, to assist her former countrymen and the locals.

Despite chronic illnesses in her later years, the Beata traveled extensively – even going overseas to personally monitor the expansion of her congregation’s work.  Upon returning from a grueling trip to South America then up to New York in 1880, she fell ill and progressively worsened.  She succumbed to pneumonia on the morning of April 30, 1881; Mother Pauline was 63-years-old.

A bone relic from Mother Pauline gifted to this

ministry by the Sisters of Christian Charity

The founder’s reputation for sanctity earned while she was still alive survived her death, leading to the opening of her Cause for Canonization in Paderborn in 1926.  In December 1984 a miraculous cure attributed to her intercession was officially approved by the Vatican and Pauline was Beatified by Pope John Paul II the following April 1985.  A second officially recognized miracle is needed to raise her to Sainthood.  We pray for her speedy Canonization.

Bl. Pauline von Mallinckrodt,

pray for us!

Are these extraordinary blessings for St. Anthony of Padua Parish?

Strange things are happening at my Kailua parish of St. Anthony of Padua Church; wonderful things ... and this author suspects perhaps the Good Lord and the Holy Virgin is trying to tell Hawaii something and maybe has plans for the parish.  May our priests and faith community respond worthily with opens hearts.  Allow me to elaborate.

It started 10 days ago on March 20, 2025.  While praying after the morning Mass, I felt a powerful presence within the church; a living and holy presence that was so tangible I could pinpoint it hovering up in the highest part of the church interior.  I couldn't see anything but I sensed it was there ... and after I was done praying and left the church, it followed me; it was around me.  I couldn't help but think to myself, "Something special is gonna happen today." and I looked up searching at the sky but didn't see anything extraordinary.

However, while walking across the street to my car, I heard a woman's voice say to me, "Go ahead - take a picture."  I recognized the voice as Our Lady's, and without hesitation I snapped three photos towards the church.  Upon reviewing the pics, I was amazed to discover that one of them showed her silhouette atop a palm tree in front of the church - it reminded me of a classic depiction of the Virgin of Fatima on her little tree!  So the "presence" was her, after all.

We observe First Saturdays with a special

Rosary so was it Our Lady of Fatima?

Fast forward to yesterday - March 29th - after the Saturday evening Vigil Mass, a huge cloud above the church began taking a human-like silhouette - a familiar form.  In awe, I recall thinking something to this effect, "It can't be.  Not again."  I don't know why but I actually ignored what I was seeing and drove off to a nearby Aunt's house ... and when I got out of my car, the cloud-figure was still above - impossibly intact! - so I took a few photos, which I post a couple below.

   

Showing both sets of the pics to family and a few friends, collectively we came to the same conclusion - we see the outline/figure of the Virgin Mary.  But the big question is ... WHY?  Why an influx of signs?  I can only assume that there is a special grace being granted to St. Anthony of Padua Church and a lesson to be learned.  The truth is, these two photos aren't the only unusual ones taken at the parish.  If one browses this ministry's Photo Albums of Little Signs to the right, one will find others taken within the past 10 years so it can't be mere coincidences.  I believe all of it has something to do with the faith and dedication of certain parishioners there; a few of them are co-members with me in our parish's FIAT: Faith In Action Today Prayer Group so I know them very well.  All are active in parish ministries and involved in spreading the Faith; all have a loving, filial relationship with Our Lady, especially through the Holy Rosary.  

What a privilege it is to know such good people; to pray and serve alongside them.  I believe that it's because of our collaborative efforts to spread devotion to the Blessed Virgin that she responds as our "Mom" to encourage and remind us of her abiding maternal love.  And the pics - they're only a visible sign of something more important, which is the invisible grace Our Lady brings that is working in life of our parish.  I discern its power ... and I'm humbled, uplifted, and grateful.  I also sense that we haven't seen the last of her.

So long as the parish continues doing what it's doing for our dear Heavenly Mother, blessings will blossom into good fruit in our faith-community; she'll also continue dropping by on occasion to check-in with us - her "kids" - knowing that she's invited and welcomed.  That's the special grace and, ultimately, the big lesson ... and it applies to every other parish not just mine.  Make Mother Mary welcomed - she will come bearing gifts.  Ave Maria!

[If you're ever in Kailua, please visit us

too - we welcome you!  For directions to

our beautiful church, click here]

Monthly Message from the Queen of Peace of Medjugorje: March 2025

Monthly Message given to Marija on March 25th:

  “Dear children, in this time of grace when you are called to conversion, I am encouraging you, little children: offer me your prayers, sufferings and tears for conversion of hearts that are far from the Heart of my Son Jesus.  Pray with me, because, little children, without God you do not have a future or eternal life.  I love you, but I cannot help you without you; therefore, say 'yes' to God.  Thank you for having responded to my call.”

Message given to Mirjana during her Annual Apparition on March 18th:

  “Dear children!  With motherly love I implore you: give me your hands folded in prayer, give me your hearts cleansed in confession and I will lead you to my Son.  Because, my children, only my Son, with His light, can illuminate the darkness; only He, with His Word, can remove suffering.  Therefore, do not be afraid to walk with me, because I am leading you to my Son – salvation.  Thank you.”

Saints & Relics Presentation, 3/15/2025: Holy Cross Parish, Kalaheo (Kauai)

Once again, the people of Kauai have warmed my heart and exceeded my expectations with their enthusiasm and hospitality!  This morning, this author flew over to Kauai Island to conduct a Lenten "Mini-Retreat" for Holy Cross Parish, which included a talk on Saints, Relics, and Eucharistic Miracles.  Based on feedback, the event was a complete success.  Thanks and Praises be to God!

The church's Pastor, Fr. Danny Galang, and his parish team of organizers were well-prepared to host the Relics, having setup covered tables and generously putting together packets filled with rosaries, holy cards, and even handkerchiefs with which to touch the Relics, so as to create 3rd Class ones for blessed mementos of the occasion.  And there was food prepared for the 70+ attendees!  (Well done, Holy Cross Parish!)

With my new friend - Fr. Danny

What was also exceptional was the invitation extended to the other parishes on the island - I met people from St. Raphael Parish, St. Theresa Parish, and again saw several friends I made when I did the January 2025 talk at St. Catherine Parish in Kapa'a.

Over 30 Relics on display, including Relics

of Our Lady's veil and the True Cross

What a beautiful and highly fruitful event orchestrated by our Lord; all the free sacramentals were scooped up and this ministry was invited to return in October to faith-share about the Blessed Virgin's apparitions and messages.  God's will be done!

Fr. Danny and my new Kauai Ohana

Lent 2025

“By the sweat of your brow you shall

eat bread, until you return to the ground,

from which you were taken; for you are

dust, and to dust you shall return.”

- Genesis 3:19

“So submit yourselves to God.

Resist the devil, and he will flee from

you.  Draw near to God, and he will draw

near to you.  Cleanse your hands, you

sinners, and purify your hearts, you of

two minds.  Begin to lament, to mourn, to

weep.  Let your laughter be turned into

mourning and your joy into dejection.

Humble yourselves before the Lord

and he will exalt you.”

- James 4:7-10

Saint of the Month - March 2025: Venerable Maria Costanza Zauli

Ven. Maria Costanza Zauli

A Handmaid of the Eucharist

Although not yet Canonized, the life of this lofty Italian mystic is worth reflecting upon, especially for the upcoming Lenten Season.  Like many authentic mystics, her life was filled with many sufferings, patiently and generously endured for the love of God and in atonement for the sins of others ... yet compensated with sublime heavenly visitations and abundant graces.

Born in Faenza, Italy, on April 17, 1886, she was baptized on the following day - a Palm Sunday - by her highly devout parents.  Thus, they named her Palma Pascua ("Easter Palm").  She reportedly smiled sweetly and laughed as the baptismal waters flowed over her head prompting the priest to exclaim: "This little girl is singular! Usually little ones cry, while she smiles so much!"

Indeed, Palma was special in many ways. Being that she was the only daughter with 6 brothers, she was doted upon by her entire family - the girl was said to have been exceptionally affable, and displayed a deep piety from her earliest years.  In fact, in her diary Palma recounted how her father, Giuseppe, taught her to love the Blessed Virgin and how she often heard the Lord clearly "speaking" to her heart (interior locutions); teaching and guiding her, which she initially thought was common to all children.

A pivotal experience occurred when Palma was only about 3-years-old - her father took her to Mass with him during which she witnessed the Host brilliantly illuminated by a supernatural light. From henceforth she was enamored by the Eucharist and when Giuseppe asked her what she wanted to do when she grew up, Palma decisively replied: "I will become a nun."

Throughout her pre-adolescent years, Palma amazed all who knew her with her admirable conduct, the aura of sanctity she exuded, and the special gifts God was clearly manifesting in her - she seemed to read souls and possessed a mature level of spiritual insight.  Of this period in her life, the Venerable once wrote: "The Lord, from then on, made himself known to my soul as a great light that enveloped me, permeated me, centered me in Himself, and I lived in that celestial atmosphere.  I preferred to remain in silence, in contemplation... In everything the Lord attracted me with an irresistible force and filled me with Himself."

At 9-years-old, Palma received Confirmation followed by her First Holy Communion, which was an earlier age than usual during her time. On both occasions she felt herself "alight" with presence of God, but it was during Communion that she heard Jesus say to her: "Will you be all mine as I am all yours, and forever? I have chosen you as my bride."  To this invitation Palma replied: "I will be yours forever."

In 1895, at the age of 20, Palma left home for Bologna to pursue her goal of becoming a nun.  Her vocation was at first opposed by her mother, but the young girl's firm resolve and Giuseppe's support managed to convince the woman.  So Palma entered the Congregation of the Handmaids of the Sacred Heart (a teaching and nursing congregation) on August 15th, the Feast of Our Lady's Assumption ... and after proving herself sincere and capable, she was admitted into investiture during which she was given the religious name of Sr. Maria Costanza (referred to as simply Sr. Costanza).

Sr. Costanza as a young nun.

In the convent, Sr. Costanza's mysticism escalated.  Frequent apparitions of our Lord occurred as He revealed to her profound heavenly mysteries and was apparently preparing her for a very special mission.  In her diary, she wrote these words concerning what the Lord was asking of her:

  "A great and luminous idea dominated my spirit from then on: the sanctity that the Lord demands of those consecrated to Him, priests, and religious: demands of love not sufficiently satisfied, for which the lament of the Divine Heart committed me to take the utmost care of my perfection, and to pray and offer for the sanctification of the chosen portion. With the consent of the director, I offered myself for this purpose so desired by God."

There were also encouraging appearances from the Madonna, whom Costanza loved dearly, and other visitations not so wonderful, as they involved the devil.  The enemy came in the form of a large menacing black dog to intimidate the young novice.  This infernal animal was also witnessed by the other nuns, but Sr. Costanza wasn't afraid - she simply invoked Our Lady and her guardian angel and it was usually sufficient to dispel the devil.

The profusion of extraordinary graces this Venerable experienced was so numerous, it will take too long to explain them all in a short blog.  So below is just a summary of some of the more significant ones:

• In separate successive visions, the Lord showed Sr. Costanza Purgatory, then Hell, and finally Heaven in 1911.

• During Holy Week of 1913, she experienced the suffering of the pains of Christ's Passion, via the Stigmata.  The Stigmata were repeated frequently, per witnesses who saw the wounds on her limbs.

• Also during Lent of 1913, on Good Friday, she underwent the Mystical Marriage with Jesus in the presence of His Holy Mother who placed her finger into a ring with three precious stones.

• The Eucharist was for her the summit of her spiritual life, triggering many of her visions, revelations, and outward signs such as ecstasies and a fiery glow on her face after Holy Communion or Adoration.

The nun, despite the unusual graces and sufferings she was living through, was able to fulfill her religious duties and was generally well-liked by her companions for her faith-example and the contagious joy she exuded; a smile was ever on her face ... and the students under her care loved her like a mother.  Furthermore, everything that God revealed to her, she entrusted to the guidance of her Confessor.

Beginning in 1923, Costanza came down with a mysterious and painful malady that mostly left her bedridden.  Our Lord had forewarned her of this trial, which He described as a participation and preparation for a great work.  In a series of revelations, He informed Costanza that she would leave her congregation to found another; Jesus wanted a new contemplative group of nuns who would  dedicate their lives to Perpetual Eucharistic Adoration for the specific purposes of praying for the sanctification of priests and religious; making reparation for their sins; supporting their work through prayer and sacrifices; and praying for spiritual vocations.

The sick nun sought discernment and approval from her Confessor and Cardinal Giorgio Cusmini, who unknown to her was the spiritual director to another reputable privileged soul, Elena Rocca (d. 1919 - read about her here).  Elena and Costanza were strangers to one another, but in September 1917 the Lord directed Elena to write to the Cardinal to urge him to support Sr. Costanza's initiative.  She did as instructed and was instrumental in setting into motion the establishment of the new congregation.

It wasn't until 1933 that the Handmaid Adorers of the Blessed Sacrament was finally founded amidst providential circumstances, in the face of many obstacles, and supported by the prayerful sacrifices on the part of Sr. Costanza and Elena Rocca.  On the day of the inauguration of the new monastery the foundress was miraculously healed of her illness and was able to join her spiritual daughters as their Mother Superior; she changed her name to Maria Costanza of the Sacred Side.  It was a name Jesus, Himself, had once called her because the work, He explained had sprung from his side-wound; hence, from the Sacred Heart, itself.

The Handmaid Adorers of the Blessed

Sacrament (Madre Costanza sits in the

front row to the left of the Cardinal).

Now a founder, Madre Costanza spent the rest of her life in complete dedication to the charism of her congregation and in intimate union with her Divine Spouse, via an intense Eucharistic Devotion.  Miracles and revelations also continued - she was reported to heal illnesses with her touch and foresee future events ... and demons still harassed her.

In July 1938 she was warned by Christ of an upcoming second World War.  Consequently, the founder transformed her monastery's cellar into a shelter, which she wisely stocked with necessary supplies.  When WWII erupted the year after in September 1939, her foresight greatly served not just her nuns, but also the local community.  Furthermore, God protected the Handmaids against the ravages of the war - bombs that fell on their monastery grounds failed to explode and bullets shot at their chapel missed the worshippers inside!  

Given that she had offered herself as an expiatory victim soul to mitigate the evils and ravages of the war (along with other mystic souls of her time) Madre Costanza suffered greatly.  By the time the war abated in Italy in the Spring of 1945, it had taken a toll on the nun; she began a slow decline.  In fact, Jesus appeared to her in August of that year bearing a magnificent jeweled crown for her, which she sensed was a happy foreshadowing of her eternal reward.  She lived until April 28, 1954, being 68-years-old at the time of her passing.

Madre Maria Costanza Zauli's Cause for Canonization is in progress; she was declared Venerable in June 2024.  Her body was discovered incorrupt during the ritual examination of her remains.  Please join this ministry in praying for her speedy Canonization.  Madre Costanza, pray for us!

A prayer leaflet w/a relic from Madre Maria

Costanza's veil, "Particella del Velo".

Monthly Message from the Queen of Peace of Medjugorje: February 2025

  "Dear Children, may this springtime be an encouragement for personal conversion for you, that with your lives you may pray and love God above all, for all those who are in need.  Little Children, be my hands of peace and prayer; be love for all those who do not love, do not pray and do not want peace.  Thank you for having responded to my call."

A Presentation and a Special Blessing from Our Lady

Yesterday morning this ministry conducted a presentation at St. John Vianney Church - it was another Saints & Relics talk tailored for the parish's CCD kids and their parents/adult sponsors; I've been conducting this talk for this group every February since 2021 and it's always well-received.  This year there was a different vibe, though, but in a very good way - the audience was larger than usual and seemed extra-receptive to what was being shared.

First off, I like it when parish's include parents in their children’s CCD journey because I strongly feel that some parents could use a Catholic education, too.  As with prior talks I've done, I emphasized the fact that "church begins at home"; the importance of praying together as a family outside of Mass for the general and spiritual well-being of the family ... especially for the protection of the children against negative worldly influences.  I also use the example of the virtues of the Holy Family or St. Therese of Lisieux, her canonized parents (Sts. Louis & Zelie Martin), and her four holy nun-sisters to drive the point home.  That part of the talk is usually received with a lukewarm response from some of the adults, but at this year's presentation, most adults and children were really paying closer attention throughout the entire talk; I sensed there was a deep "thirst" for the message.

Relics of the Holy Family on display.  Other Holy Persons/Relics featured were the Servant of God Nina Ruiz Abad, Bl. Carlo Acutis, St. Damien of Molokai, St. Germaine Cousin, and St. Giuseppe Moscati, and Bl. Pier Giorgio Frassati.

As confirmation, after the presentation this author received positive feedback that made me hopeful that people got a measure of satisfaction from the message shared about our Spiritual Heroes, and faith-seeds had also been planted - one father approached me and commented: "Thank you for doing this.  I really enjoyed it.  This was inspirational.  I didn't know much about the Saints." ... and a young mother had the following feedback: "Thank you for coming.  I enjoyed your talk.  I brought my older kids along to listen and your presentation addressed questions they had about Saints and how relevant they are to our faith."

... and to see the parents and their children up at the relic display - discussing the Saints; praying together; and touching the reliquaries with awe and reverence - is always priceless.  Again, one could sense the thirst for a personal connection with God, and the Saints/Relics were providing something tangible to satisfy that need.  May the Lord, Our Lady, and the Saints continue working on these families to help them grow in their Catholic Faith.

The children and parents making personal connections with our Saints and Blesseds through their precious and holy relics.

And speaking of Our Lady, I commend every presentation to her maternal intercession before conducting them.  This presentation was no exception - I asked our Heavenly Mother to obtain graces for a successful talk; for all the attendees to open their hearts to Jesus's message, especially the parents.  After the event, shortly after reaching home and parking my car, my attention was strongly drawn to the sky, which was immediately followed by an inner voice telling me to "take a picture".  Although I didn't discern anything specific in the clouds I immediately obeyed and snapped two pics.

Later, when I reviewed the photos, I was amazed to discover the luminous figure of the Blessed Virgin in both photos - I understood that she had shown herself to affirm her maternal solicitude and blessing upon the families, which made yesterday's event all the more special for me.  Below are the photos ...

   

ABOVE: The Blessed Virgin appears in

these photos taken after the presentation.

BELOW: My visual interpretation of the

holy figures I discern in the two photos.

* * *  A  T E S T I M O N I A L  * * *

  "I had so many wonderful comments and words of gratitude from the families.  The mom of Annabelle pulled me aside with tears slipping down her face thanking us and yourself for the wonderful affirmations.  Annabelle was so full of joy. Her mom was touched by her faith in God's power and a desire to be more like the saints herself. Aren't we all drawn closer to Jesus through these children who believe wholeheartedly?  May God continue to bless you through your ministry."

- Joan H., CCD Youth Coordinator

All Thanks and Praises be to our Lord, to His most Holy Mother Mary, and all the Saints who touched lives today.  GOD IS GOOD.

Are you Battle Ready?

Stand with St. Michael and the

Angelic Army of Heaven!

  "Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil's schemes.  For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms.  Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand.  Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist, with the breastplate of righteousness in place, and with your feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace.  In addition to all this, take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one.  Take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God."  - Ephesians 6:11-17

An unusual cloud formation above

Kailua Town in February 2025.  Are we

being prepared for spiritual warfare?

St. Michael the Archangel,

defend us in battle!

For Discernment: What's up with the Planet Venus?

For those not aware, there's been an extraordinary astronomical event unfolding, even at this very moment, as I'm writing this blog - a rare planetary alignment of all 7 planets is underway that will be visible at the end of this month.

I first started noticing something was up when I began seeing an extraordinarily bright light from my home, directly above the Waikiki area, beginning in November 2024.  I initially thought it was a large drone but changed my mind when it continued to quietly appear nightly in the same spot without any blinking lights.  I later learned from a friend that it was the planet Venus ... and not long after a faint reddish light was seen beside it, which I understood to be the planet Mars.

I know what's taking place is a natural occurrence, but can't help but wonder if there's also a spiritual undertone to it all.  The reason being is because several photos I took of Venus, on consecutive nights back in November, unexpectedly showed mysterious images in place of the planet.  Three of the clearest photos are shown below in the successive order they were snapped, and just a few days apart:

Seen together, could these be interpreted

as a message from Heaven?

I've been praying about these photos for the past two months - about whether I should share them - but I finally decided to post them because I now feel there's a relevant message that's being given, at least to me.  But I'm hoping there are others out there who will discern the same and spiritually profit from this blog.

Essentially, I believe our Lord is trying to draw attention to His True Presence in the Eucharist; urgently conveying a wake-up call for souls to open up to His LOVE being poured out through the Eucharist, and for us to respond with love; that the Eucharist must be central in our present and uncertain times.  This is a reasonable assessment and relevant, given that these occurrences coincide with the US Church's ongoing "Eucharistic Revival", which was initiated in mid-2024.

A normal photo of Venus - its that brilliant

white spot way above the moon.  Waikiki city

lights shine brightly below.

And what was a final "nudge" for me to post the pics was an exciting discovery I made a couple weeks ago - I researched the Biblical significance of Venus and was surprised to learn that the planet was called the "Morning Star" in ancient times, and early Christians referenced it as a symbol for our Risen Lord!  In fact, Jesus proclaimed this, Himself - take a look at this passage from the Book of Revelation, 22:12-16:

  "Look, I am coming soon!  My reward is with me, and I will give to each person according to what they have done.  I am the Alpha and the Omega, the First and the Last, the Beginning and the End.

  Blessed are those who wash their robes, that they may have the right to the tree of life and may go through the gates into the city.  Outside are the dogs, those who practice magic arts, the sexually immoral, the murderers, the idolaters and everyone who loves and practices falsehood.

  I, Jesus, have sent my angel to give you this testimony for the churches.  I am the Root and the Offspring of David, and the bright Morning Star."

Talk about a seriously pertinent Scripture Passage for our times, and note the very end where Jesus identifies Himself as the "Morning Star"; the entire passage resonated with me.  Now tie that all together with this series of unusual photos of Venus I took.  Doesn't it somehow go together?  Personally, I totally get it.

Another view of Venus (captured from

Kailua Town - beautiful!).

Today these photos continue speaking to me about the importance of the Eucharist and the urgency of our present times. Jesus is ringing an alarm, so it seems - "Look, I am coming soon!" - and it's time for the world to wake up!  Irregardless, whether one discerns the unusual images, a message ... or nothing at all ... we Catholics still need to continue recognizing; partaking of; appreciating; loving; and defending the Eucharist.

... and what about this strange photo?

Is Heaven saying something?

And finally ... about the 2025 Jubilee Year of Hope - I think these photos may also serve as a prophetic reminder for the Jubilee: JESUS - TRULY PRESENT IN THE EUCHARIST - IS OUR UNFAILING HOPE!  Amen.

"And there shall be signs in the sun, and

in the moon, and in the stars; and upon the

earth distress of nations, with perplexity;

the sea and the waves roaring ..."

- Luke 21:25

Saint of the Month - February 2025: Blessed Eustochio of Padua

Bl. Eustochio of Padua

She conquered the devil!

Memorial - February 13th

The Italian city of Padova (Padua) is known all the world over today thanks to its famous Patron Saint - St. Anthony of Padua.  In the 20th Century, it was graced by the presence of yet another holy figure - the Franciscan Priest/Confessor, St. Leopoldo Mandic ... but how many people are aware that there is another revered spiritual figure in the city?  A female Beata (or Blessed) baptized as Lucrezia Bellini, but more commonly invoked as Eustochio of Padua.  This ministry is pleased to feature her bio this month.

Lucrezia was the illegitimate daughter from the adulterous union of a married nobleman named Bartolomeo Bellini and an unworthy nun, Magdalena Cavalcabo.  Before continuing any further, it should be noted that the monastery where her mother resided - the Benedictine establishment of San Prosdocimo in Padua - wasn't noted for piety, rather it was gossiped about by the townsfolk because of the rumored widespread abuses of its Rule perpetrated by the occupants.  This was the dissolute environment that little Lucrezia was born into sometime in 1444.

Soon after her birth in the monastery, Lucrezia was discretely spirited away to be raised by Bartolomeo.  In the Bellini home, Bartolomeo's lawful wife, not surprisingly, resented the girl's presence and treated her with contempt. Things worsened when Lucrezia began exhibiting bizarre behavior starting at age 4, which was attributed to bouts of demonic possession.  Normally a well-behaved child, she fell into states of uncontrollable rage and violent behavior that lead to her being returned to the monastery as a "boarding student" at 7-years-old.  It was hoped that her condition would improve but just the opposite occurred - her symptoms of possession worsened so priests were summoned and exorcisms conducted.  The ritual brought a measure of relief to the child.

In the meantime, a new Abbess was installed who sought to reform the monastery but her efforts met with strong resistance from the community, with the exception of Lucrezia, who matured into a highly devout young woman. Perhaps because of her traumatic experiences, she was exceptionally prayerful and reflective; often seeking the intercession of the Blessed Virgin, St. Luke, and St. Jerome for the general good of her soul.

When the Abbess died under mysterious circumstances (suspected poisoning), the local Bishop intervened by personally implementing greater discipline among the nuns of San Prosdocimo.  Rather than comply, the nuns chose to pack up and returned to their respective homes, which spoke volumes as to their degenerate spiritual disposition.  Again, the exception was Lucrezia, who was the only resident who chose to stay.

An old print of Bl. Eustochio (Note

the demon under her feet)

The Bishop brought in more-observant Benedictines to take over San Prosdocimo and the 17-year-old Lucrezia applied with this new group.  Given her condition, the nuns hesitated until the Bishop ordered them to admit her.  Hence, she was clothed in the habit on January 14, 1461, under the religious name of Sr. Eustochio.  The event triggered another full-blown possession, which figures prominently for the rest of her life.

This time around, the Beata was also subjected to other forms of diabolic vexations: she came down with mysterious illnesses that caused intense bodily pains and fits of vomiting; suffered blows from invisible attackers who sometimes also lifted her into the air only to throw her to the ground or against walls; she was choked and even burned.  Needless to say, Eustochio was often left bruised or wounded after each episode.  Her spiritual director - a Fr. Girolamo Saligario - performed repeated exorcisms on her, which provided temporary respite.  It became clear that the Lord had a special purpose for Eustochio's sufferings and she responded heroically.

The brave nun intensified her prayers, voluntary mortifications, and fasting to combat the evil forces; consciously accepting her sufferings as a way of closer conformity with her Crucified Spouse; the constant contemplation of the Cross was a source of both solace and strength in the midst of her terrible ordeals.  Some of her biographers have even speculated that the mysterious scourge wounds that appeared on her limbs were actually a form of mystical participation in the Passion of Christ.  Thus, she could reasonably be ranked amongst the rare group of mystics marked with the Stigmata.

To add to her troubles, Sr. Eustochio also suffered from her own community.  When the Abbess fell ill, some of her companions accused her of poisoning the woman; she was imprisoned for a period of three months during which she was chained to a pillar and fed only bread and water.  When the citizens of Padua heard of the strange events surrounding Eustochio, they accused her of witchcraft and threatened to burn her at the stake.  Fortunately, Fr. Girolamo staunchly defended her and he managed to convince the other nuns that she was indeed an innocent victim of the devil's wiles; not a willing perpetrator of evil.

The reliquary of Bl. Eustochio on display

in the Cathedral of Padua, Italy

Little by little the community came to recognize Eustochio's virtues, as her conduct was consistently beyond reproach during the intervals when she was fully herself ... and, on her part, she never harbored resentment for the way she was mistreated in the past.  The possession and attacks continued until shortly before the Beata's death; despite their horrific efforts, the devil never succeeded in breaking her faith in God.  Instead, Sr. Eustochio broke them and emerged victorious after her long battle, which is why her iconography depicts her stomping on demons!

The Beata was only 25-years-old when she passed on February 13, 1469, but had lost her youthful beauty due to her sufferings and mortifications.  But no sooner did she breathe her last when her corpse was transformed in heavenly beauty and exuded a floral scent, which were outward signs of the great sanctity she managed to achieve within her short life.  Furthermore, as the nuns prepared Eustochio's body for burial, a notable discovery was made - on her chest, directly over her heart were lesions that clearly spelled the name of "JESUS".

Veneration for the dead nun increased as miracles occurred at her grave in San Prosdocimo.  Within a span of six years, the graces attributed to Eustochio's intercession were so numerous, the Paduans popularly acclaimed her as "Beata Eustochio" and the Bishop authorized the translation of her remains into the monastery church.  Upon exhuming her body, it was found incorrupt and a spring began miraculously flowing from the original grave site, which cured the sick!  Pope Clement XIII recognized the validity of Sr. Eustochio's Cultus by making it official in 1760.

For centuries, Sr. Eustochio's relics were highly venerated at San Prosdocimo and the healing water was channeled into a large marble basin for pilgrims to collect.  However, when the anti-clerical government closed the monastery in 1806, the spring abruptly stopped flowing and the Beata’s body (then reduced to a skeleton) was taken by the nuns to a new tomb in the Benedictine monastery/church of San Pietro in Padua.  In 2019, the relics were moved to the Cathedral of Padua due to extensive  renovations at San Pietro Church.

A contemporary rendering of Bl. Eustochio,

based on forensic studies of her skull relic -

she was beautiful!

Today, the Beata's precious bones (enclosed in a simulacrum and wearing a forensically-reconstructed mask of her actual facial features) remain in the Cathedral where they are the destination of local pilgrims.  Monthly prayer services are celebrated in Bl. Eustochio's honor attended by many people from all over Italy - and even beyond - who desire to receive graces from deliverance prayers offered by resident exorcists for the diabolically afflicted and for the general sick.  Spiritual favors continue to be reported and because of her effective intercession against the demonic, Italian exorcists have designated Eustochio their Patroness and the Patroness of Spiritual Warfare.

Blessed Eustochio of Padua,

pray for us against the forces of evil!