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CELEBRATING THE Saints

How to Celebrate Saint Feast Days and Traditions: July 14-20

Here I will share the Saint Feast Days July 14-20. Every week I share about different saints and their fest days in the Roman Catholic Church. Each feast day is a day dedicated to honoring the lives and legacies of remarkable individuals who have profoundly impacted the faith. Let’s delve deeper into these saints, their symbols, patronages, miracles, and the rich traditions associated with celebrating their feast days.

Catholic Saint Feast Days July 14-20

The Catholic Saints with feast days this week are:

You can click on each saint’s name above, or keep reading, to learn more about each saint!

Why should we observe feast days?

In the Roman Catholic tradition, celebrating the feast days of saints holds profound significance. We revere Saints as exemplars of faith, whose lives bear witness to the transformative power of God’s grace. Their stories inspire and guide believers in their own spiritual journeys, offering models of virtue, perseverance, and devotion to God. Each saint’s feast day is a time for reflection, prayer, and thanksgiving for their intercession in the lives of the faithful.

Implementing the observation of Feast Days is an easy first step to creating a strong foundation of faith in your home!

Here’s why:
  1. when we become attentive to Feast Days we are also becoming aware of the Liturgical seasons of the church and the traditions associated with those seasons.
  2. When we remember and honor a saint we typically read a story of their life. The stories of the saints reveal to us how ordinary people can do extraordinary things through the grace of God.
  3. The observation of feast days is an intentional act we must make. When we choose to focus our time and minds on our heavenly brothers and sisters we are also choosing to focus our time and minds on God. I personally notice that when I observe feast days I tend to pray more and am reminded of God’s love and of Jesus’ sacrifice for me.

Because of these three reasons, I recommend that you begin observing Feast days with your families. Doing so will enable you to strengthen your home’s roots in the Catholic faith. And what better time to start than today! Keep reading to learn in more detail about each Saint and their feast days from July 14-20.

Hi there! If you’re new here, my name is Brianna. I am a catholic convert and mother of three. My family lives in Louisiana and we have a passion for celebrating the saints and bringing the traditions of the Catholic Church into our home. You can read more about me, my family, and my mission for this blog here.

Kateri Tekakwitha

July 14: St. Kateri Tekakwitha

“I am not my own; I have given myself to Jesus. He must be my only love.”

St. Kateri Tekakwitha
Significance and Contribution to the Church:

St. Kateri Tekakwitha was canonized as a saint by Pope Benedict XVI on October 21, 2012. She was the first Native American woman to be recognized as a saint by the Catholic Church. Despite facing persecution and ostracism from her own community, St. Kateri Tekakwitha remained steadfast in her faith. Her life exemplifies the integration of her Native American heritage with her Christian faith. Further, she demonstrates that one can be deeply rooted in one’s cultural identity while embracing the universal truths of the Catholic Church. Her courage in embracing Christianity and her dedication to prayer and sacramental life are an inspiring example to me, personally.

Patronage:

Ecology and the environment, and Native Americans.

Miracles:

Some of the miracles attributed to St. Kateri Tekakwitha are Healing Miracles, and instances of individuals escaping danger or experiencing unforeseen positive outcomes after seeking her aid.

Symbols:

Symbols associated with St. Kateri Tekakwitha include:

  • Lilies: Representing hurity, innocence, and the beauty of her soul dedicated to Christ.
  • Turtle: Representing longevity, wisdom, and protection. It also symbolizes her rootedness in her Mohawk-Algonquian heritage.
  • Feather: Feathers are a significant symbol in Native American culture and can represent spirituality, freedom, and connection to the spiritual world.
  • Cross: Represents her deep faith in Jesus Christ and her willingness to embrace Christianity despite opposition and persecution.
Prayer:

“Saint Kateri Tekakwitha, Lily of the Mohawks, You endured hardship and suffering with grace, Choosing to follow Christ and His Church faithfully. Through your intercession, we seek your courage and strength. Help us to live our faith boldly, To love God above all things, And to serve others with charity and compassion. Pray for us, that we may imitate your virtues And come to share in the glory of Heaven. Amen.”

Traditions:

Here are some ways to celebrate St. Kateri Tekakwitha:

  • Feast Day Observance: Attend Mass on her feast day, July 14th, and participate in prayers dedicated to her.
  • Pilgrimage: Visit her shrine in Kahnawake, Quebec, Canada, or other places dedicated to her memory.
  • Cultural Awareness: Learn more about Native American culture and spirituality, particularly from the Mohawk-Algonquian perspective.
  • Act of Charity: In honor of St. Kateri Tekakwitha’s dedication to serving others, perform an act of charity or kindness.

By observing St. Kateri Tekakwitha’s feast day in these ways, you can deepen your spiritual connection with her, honor her memory, and draw inspiration from her example of faith and devotion.

St. Bonaventure

July 15: St. Bonaventure

“Since happiness is nothing other than the enjoyment of the highest good, and since the highest good is above, no one can be happy unless he rises above himself, not by an ascent of the body, but of the heart.”

St. Bonaventure
Significance and Contribution to the Church:

St. Bonaventure, born Giovanni di Fidanza (1221-1274), was a Franciscan friar, theologian, and Doctor of the Church. He is renowned for his profound theological writings and contributions to Franciscan spirituality. Bonaventure’s works, such as “The Soul’s Journey into God” and “The Tree of Life,” reflect his mystical insights and theological depth. They emphasizie the union of the soul with God through prayer and contemplation. Lastly, he served as Minister General of the Franciscan Order and played a crucial role in maintaining its unity and spiritual focus during a turbulent period.

Patronage:

St. Bonaventure is the patron saint of bowel disorders, as he suffered from a gastrointestinal illness throughout his life.

Miracles:

Some of the miracles attributed to St. Bonaventure’s intercession include healings and spiritual graces received by those who pray for his help.

Symbols:

Some symbols associated with St. Bonaventure include:

  • Franciscan Habit: Representing his commitment to poverty and simplicity.
  • Book and Quill: Symbolizing his theological writings and intellectual contributions.
  • Holy Spirit: Often depicted guiding him in his theological insights and writings.
Prayer:

“Lord, inflame our hearts and our inmost beings with the fire of Your Holy Spirit, that we may serve You with chaste bodies and pure minds. Through Christ our Lord. Amen.”

Traditions:

Here are some ways to celebrate St. Bonaventure:

  • Feast Day Observance: Attend Mass on his feast day, July 15th, and participate in prayers dedicated to him.
  • Study and Reflection: Dive into his theological works and writings, exploring his teachings on spirituality and the mystical life.
  • Franciscan Spirituality: Embrace aspects of Franciscan spirituality, such as simplicity, humility, and devotion to Christ.

St. Bonaventure’s life and teachings inspire us to deepen our faith, pursue theological knowledge, and embrace a life of prayer and contemplation. His contributions to the Church and Franciscan Order highlight his enduring legacy as a saint, theologian, and spiritual guide.

Additional Readings
Our lady of mt carmel

July 16: Our Lady of Mount Carmel

“My soul magnifies the Lord, and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior.”

Our Lady of Mount Carmel
Significance and Contribution to the Church:

Our Lady of Mount Carmel is a title of the Blessed Virgin Mary associated with the Carmelite Order. The Carmelites trace their origin to Mount Carmel in Israel, where a community of hermits dedicated themselves to a life of prayer and contemplation in the 12th century. As Our Lady of Mount Carmel, The Blessed Virgin Mary is venerated as the patroness and protector of the Carmelite Order and its members.

Patronage:

Our Lady of Mount Carmel is the patroness of the Carmelite Order, as well as:

  • Carmelite Scapular: She is particularly associated with the Brown Scapular, a sacramental worn by the faithful as a sign of devotion and protection.
  • Chile: Our Lady of Mount Carmel is also a patroness of Chile, where her feast day is celebrated with great devotion.
Miracles:

Some of the miracles and graces attributed to Our Lady of Mount Carmel’s intercession include physical healings, conversions, and the reception of spiritual blessings.

Symbols:

Some symbols associated with Our Lady of Mount Carmel include:

  • Brown Scapular: A small garment worn around the neck, signifying devotion and protection under her mantle.
  • Mount Carmel: Representing her connection to the holy site where the Carmelite Order originated.
  • Rosary: Often depicted holding a rosary, emphasizing her role in promoting devotion to prayer and the mysteries of the faith.
Prayer:

“Oh, most beautiful flower of Mt Carmel, fruitful vine, splendor of heaven, blessed mother of the son of God, immaculate virgin: assist me in my necessity. O star of the sea, help me and show me, here you are my mother. Oh, holy Mary, mother of God, queen of heaven and earth: I humbly beseech you from the bottom of my heart to succour me in this necessity (state the request). There are none that can withstand your power. O Mary, conceived without sin, pray for us who have recourse to thee. Holy mother, I place this cause in your hands. Amen.”

Traditions:

Here are some ways you can celebrate Our Lady of Mount Carmel:

  • Feast Day Observance: Attend Mass on July 16th, her feast day, and participate in prayers and devotions dedicated to Our Lady of Mount Carmel.
  • Brown Scapular Devotion: Wear or enroll in the Brown Scapular devotion, expressing devotion to Mary’s protection and intercession.
  • Processions and Celebrations: In many places, processions, feasts, and cultural celebrations honor Our Lady of Mount Carmel, especially in Carmelite communities and parishes.

Our Lady of Mount Carmel holds a special place in the hearts of Carmelites and Catholics worldwide. She symbolizes maternal love, protection, and spiritual guidance. She is a wonderful saint to help you foster a deeper relationship with Christ through prayer and devotion to His Mother.

Additional Reading:
st alexis

July 17: St. Alexis

“I do not deserve to bear the name of Christian if I do not labor for the salvation of souls.”

St. Alexis
Significance and Contribution to the Church:

Some of the most memorable characteristics of St. Alexis are his life of piety, humility, and self-denial. Alexis was born into a wealthy Roman family but chose a life of poverty and service to God, eventually leaving his family to live as a beggar near a church in Edessa, Syria. We can consider him a model of Christian humility and detachment from worldly goods.

Patronage:

Saint Alexis is the patron saint of beggars, pilgrims, and the homeless. His life of voluntary poverty and devotion to God has made him a patron for those who seek spiritual renewal and guidance in simplicity of life.

Miracles:

Miracles attributed to Saint Alexis include healings of illnesses, conversions of sinners through his intercession, and spiritual blessings received by those who pray for his help. These miracles testify to his sanctity and the power of his prayers.

Symbols:

Symbols associated with Saint Alexis include:

  • Beggar’s Garb: Representing his life of poverty and detachment from worldly possessions.
  • Church of Saint Alexis: He is often depicted with church in Rome dedicated to his memory, where his relics are venerated.
  • Pilgrim’s Staff: Symbolizing his journey of faith and pilgrimage in service to God.
Prayer:

“O Saint Alexis, servant of Christ, you chose a life of humility and penance. Intercede for us before the throne of God, that we may follow your example of faith and self-denial. Amen.”

Traditions:

Here are some ways you can honor Saint Alexis:

  • Feast Day Observance: Attend Mass on his feast day, July 17th, and reflect on his life of piety and humility.
  • Acts of Charity: Perform acts of charity and kindness towards the poor and homeless, following Saint Alexis’ example of compassion and service.
  • Pilgrimage: Visit churches dedicated to Saint Alexis or embark on a spiritual pilgrimage, reflecting on the virtues of simplicity and faith.

Saint Alexis’ life of humility, devotion to God, and selfless service to others continues to inspire Christians to live lives of faith and charity. His example challenges believers to embrace simplicity and detachment from worldly goods, focusing instead on spiritual renewal and service to those in need.

St. Camillus de Lellis

July 18: St. Camillus de Lellis

“Consider that the devil doesn’t sleep, but seeks our ruin in a thousand ways.”

St. Camillus de Lellis
Significance and Contribution to the Church:

Saint Camillus de Lellis (1550-1614) was an Italian priest who founded the Order of Clerks Regular, Ministers of the Infirm (commonly known as the Camillians). We remember him for his dedication to caring for the sick and the dying, establishing hospitals, and reforming healthcare practices. St. Camillus emphasized compassionate care and spiritual ministry to those suffering from illness, setting a standard of love and service that continues to influence healthcare workers today.

Patronage:

Saint Camillus de Lellis is the patron saint of hospitals, nurses, physicians, and healthcare workers. Because of his life of service devoted to the sick, he is an excellent a model of compassion and care to the healthcare profession.

Miracles:

Miracles attributed to St. Camillus de Lellis include miraculous healings of illnesses and injuries, conversions of hearts through his intercession, and spiritual blessings received by those who invoke his help in times of need. These miracles testify to his sanctity and the power of his prayers.

Symbols:

Symbols associated with St. Camillus de Lellis include:

  • Red Cross: Representing his role as a caregiver and healer, similar to modern healthcare symbols.
  • Clerical Garb: Depicting his religious vocation and service as a priest dedicated to the care of the sick.
  • Crucifix and Rosary: Symbols of his devotion to Christ and Our Lady, which guided his life and ministry.
Prayer:

“O Saint Camillus, servant of the sick and poor, your life of compassion and dedication inspires us to serve Christ in those who suffer. Pray for us, that we may imitate your selflessness and love. Amen.”

Traditions:

Ways to honor Saint Camillus de Lellis:

  • Feast Day Observance: Attend Mass on his feast day, July 14th, and reflect on his life of service and dedication to the sick.
  • Acts of Charity: Volunteer at hospitals or healthcare facilities, or support organizations that care for the sick and marginalized.
  • Prayer for Healthcare Workers: Offer prayers for healthcare workers, asking for St. Camillus’ intercession for their strength, compassion, and healing ministry.

Saint Camillus de Lellis’ legacy of compassionate care and devotion to the sick continues to inspire Christians and healthcare professionals worldwide. On his feast day this week, I challenges you to seek to embody Christ’s love through acts of mercy and charity.

St. Arsenius the Great

July 19: St. Arsenius the Great

“The kingdom of God is within you.”

St. Arsenius the Great
Significance and Contribution to the Church:

Saint Arsenius the Great, was born in Rome around 354 AD. He served as a deacon at the imperial court of Emperor Theodosius I before renouncing his position to pursue a life of asceticism and solitude in the Egyptian desert. His decision to embrace a life of prayer, fasting, and contemplation marked the beginning of his journey as a desert father.

Saint Arsenius settled in the Egyptian desert near Sketis, where he lived in extreme simplicity and devoted himself to rigorous fasting, prayer, and manual labor. As such, St. Arsenius is an influence to the Catholic church due to his wisdom and spiritual counsel. Saint Arsenius emphasized the importance of humility, detachment from worldly desires, and continuous prayer in the pursuit of union with God. His teachings on the interior life and the struggle against temptations have also had a profound impact on the development of Christian monasticism and spirituality. After spending over forty years in the desert, Saint Arsenius’ reputation for holiness spread throughout the Christian world.

Prayer:

“O God, who adorned Saint Arsenius the Great with a wonderful virtue of self-denial and humility, grant, we pray, through his intercession, that, denying ourselves, we may hold fast to you with all our heart. Through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son, who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, forever and ever. Amen.”

Traditions:

Feast Day Observance: Saint Arsenius’ feast day is celebrated on July 19th. Catholics may attend Mass on this day and reflect on his life of asceticism and spiritual wisdom. Devotional practices may include reading about his life, praying for his intercession, and reflecting on the virtues he exemplified.

Additional Reading:
St. Apollinaris

July 20: St. Apollinaris

“Be constant in prayer and in truth with meekness.”

St. Apollinaris
Significance and Contribution to the Church:

Saint Apollinaris was an early Christian bishop and martyr who lived in the 1st century. He is traditionally believed to have been ordained by Saint Peter himself. He served as the first bishop of Ravenna in Italy. Apollinaris played a crucial role in spreading the Christian faith in the region, enduring persecution and hardships for his beliefs.

Martyrdom: Saint Apollinaris faced persecution under the Roman Emperor Vespasian and was subjected to various tortures for refusing to renounce his Christian faith. He was eventually exiled from Ravenna and martyred in the city of Classis, near Ravenna. His steadfastness in the face of persecution and his willingness to suffer for Christ’s sake have made him a revered figure in the early Church.

Patronage:

Saint Apollinaris is the patron saint of Ravenna, Italy, where his relics are venerated. He is also invoked against gout, epilepsy, and toothache, as well as for protection during storms.

Miracles:

Miracles attributed to him include healings of illnesses and the reception of spiritual graces. His relics are believed to have been associated with miraculous healings throughout the centuries.

Symbols:

Some symbols associated with Saint Apollinaris include:

  • Bishop’s Crozier: Representing his role as a bishop and shepherd of the Christian community.
  • Palm of Martyrdom: Signifying his martyrdom and steadfast faith in Christ.
  • Ravenna Cathedral: Depicting the cathedral dedicated to him in Ravenna, where his relics are enshrined.
Prayer:

“O God, who consecrated the first fruits of the faith in the preaching and martyrdom of Saint Apollinaris, grant, through his intercession, that, as you have begun your gifts in us, so you may bring them to fulfillment. Through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son, who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, forever and ever. Amen.”

Traditions:

Here are some ways to honor Saint Apollinaris:

  • Feast Day Observance: Attend Mass on his feast day, July 20th, and reflect on his life of faith and martyrdom.
  • Pilgrimage to Ravenna: Visit the Cathedral of Ravenna, where his relics are kept, and participate in local celebrations honoring him.

Saint Apollinaris’ courage and faithfulness to Christ’s teachings inspire Christians to remain steadfast in their beliefs, even in the face of persecution and adversity. His life and martyrdom continue to be celebrated and venerated, serving as a reminder of the sacrifices made by early Christians for the sake of their faith.

Weekly wrap-up

Each of these saints has left a lasting impact on the Church, providing examples of faith, dedication, and service. Celebrating feast days offers us an opportunity to reflect on their lives. We can also seek to learn from and imitate their virtues and find inspiration from their contributions to the faith. I hope that this post has helped you learn some of the Traditions for Saint Feast Days July 14-20. Lets take some time this week to meditate on the lessons these Saints have to teach us. Lastly, I hope that through their prayer and intercession you may find yourself on a path to a deeper relationship with our Lord, and to a more sanctified life.

If you enjoyed this post, please consider sharing it and check out my other weekly saint feast day posts!

pax christi, Brianna

Additional Weekly Saint Round-Ups

Here are some of the additional weekly posts I have made that discuss different saints and their feast days.

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