go out and tell the whole world....

Today, we celebrate St. Bernardine of Siena, a preacher and pastor who devoted his holy life to the service of the poor. Growing up in Italy in the 1300s, he accepted the habit of the Friars Minor. He is known for having risked his life caring for the sick ravaged with plague and for having walked the breadth of Italy preaching and teaching peace. He loved the Holy Name of Jesus. He encouraged people everywhere to practice devotion to the Holy Name and would carry a plaque or later a staff with Jesus' name surrounded by beautiful rays of light for the faithful to venerate.
As young people, we are given the opportunity to follow in St. Bernadine's footsteps. We live in a culture where Jesus' name is not honored, but on the contrary, often slandered and spoken in vain. Yet, by the way we speak, act, dress, play, and live, we can make a difference. Let us ask St. Bernadine to intercede for us, as we learn how to proclaim our love for Jesus' name in a fallen world. Have courage! Do not be afraid!



from-The Litany of the Holy Name of Jesus

V. Jesus, Son of the living God,
R. Have mercy on us.
Jesus, splendor of the Father, [etc.]

Jesus, brightness of eternal light.
Jesus, King of glory.
Jesus, sun of justice.
Jesus, Son of the Virgin Mary.
Jesus, most amiable.
Jesus, most admirable.
Jesus, the mighty God.
Jesus, Father of the world to come.
Jesus, angel of great counsel.
Jesus, most powerful.
Jesus, most patient.
Jesus, most obedient.
Jesus, meek and humble of heart.
Jesus, lover of chastity.
Jesus, lover of us.
Jesus, God of peace.
Jesus, author of life.
Jesus, example of virtues.
Jesus, zealous lover of souls.
Jesus, our God.
Jesus, our refuge.
Jesus, father of the poor.
Jesus, treasure of the faithful.
Jesus, good Shepherd.
Jesus, true light.
Jesus, eternal wisdom.

V. Be merciful,
R. spare us, O Jesus.
V. Be merciful,
R. graciously hear us, O Jesus.

St. Bernardine, Pray for us!