Rule/Martyrology

[OmniaInstaurareInChristo]

The reading appointed from the Rule of St. Benedict for November 5:

CHAPTER XXIX
Whether Brethren Who Leave the Monastery Ought to Be Received Again

If a brother, who through his own fault leaveth the monastery or is expelled, desireth to return, let him first promise full amendment of the fault for which he left; and thus let him be received in the last place, that by this means his humility may be tried. If he should leave again, let him be received even a third time, knowing that after this every means of return will be denied him.

Martyrology-November 6th
Roman Martyrology-November 6th-on this date in various years-

At Barcelona in Spain, St. Severus, bishop and martyr, who had his head pierced with a spike, and thus received the crown of martyrdom for the sake of the Catholic faith.

At Tunis in Africa, the birthday of St. Felix, martyr, who, having confessed Christ, was sent to prison. His sentence had been deferred, but the next day he was found dead, as is related by St. Augustine when he was expounding on a psalm to the people on the feast of the saint.

At Theopolis, which is Antioch, ten holy martyrs who are said to have suffered at the hands of the Saracens.

In Phrygia, St. Atticus, martyr.

At Berg in Flanders, the death of St. Winoc, abbot, who was renowned for virtues and miracles, and for a long time was servant to the brethren subject to him.

At Fondi in Lazio, St. Felix, monk.

At Limoges in Aquitaine, St. Leonard, confessor, disciple of the blessed bishop Remigius, who was born of a noble family but chose to lead a solitary life. He was celebrated for holiness and miracles, but his virtue shone particularly in the deliverance of captives.

And elsewhere in divers places, many other holy martyrs, confessors, and holy virgins.
R. Thanks be to God.

[OmniaInstaurareInChristo]

The reading appointed from the Rule of St. Benedict for November 7:

CHAPTER XXXI
The Kind of Man the Cellarer of the Monastery Ought to Be

Let there be chosen from the brotherhood as Cellarer of the monastery a wise man, of settled habits, temperate and frugal, not conceited, irritable, resentful, sluggish, or wasteful, but fearing God, who may be as a father to the whole brotherhood.

Let him have the charge of everything, let him do nothing without the command of the Abbot, let him do what hath been ordered him and not grieve the brethren. If a brother should perchance request anything of him unreasonably let him not sadden the brother with a cold refusal, but politely and with humility refuse him who asketh amiss. Let him be watchful of his own soul, always mindful of the saying of the Apostle: "For they that have ministered well, shall purchase to themselves a good degree" (1 Tm 3:13). Let him provide for the sick, the children, the guests, and the poor, with all care, knowing that, without doubt, he will have to give an account of all these things on judgment day. Let him regard all the vessels of the monastery and all its substance, as if they were sacred vessels of the altar. Let him neglect nothing and let him not give way to avarice, nor let him be wasteful and a squanderer of the goods of the monastery; but let him do all things in due measure and according to the bidding of his Abbot.

Martyrology-November 8th
Roman Martyrology-November 8th-on this date in various years-

The Octave of All Saints.

At Rome, on the Lavican Way, three miles from the city, the martyrdom of the Saints Claudius, Nicostratus, Symphorian, Castorius, and Simplicius. They were first sent to prison, then scourged with whips set with metal, but since they could not be made to forsake the faith of Christ, Diocletian ordered them to be thrown into the river.

Also, on the Lavican Way, the birthday of the saintly brothers, Severus, Severian, Carpophorus, and Victorinus, called the Four Crowned, who were scourged to death with leaded whips, during the reign of the same emperor. Because their names, known some years afterwards by revelation, could not then be ascertained, it was ordered that their anniversary should be commemorated with the preceding five, under the name of the Four Saints Crowned. This custom was retained by the Church, even after their names had been revealed.

Also at Rome, St. Deusdedit, pope, whose merit was so great that he cured a leper by kissing him.

In the village of Plexem, on the Weser River in Germany, St. Willehad, first bishop of Bremen, who, together with St. Boniface, whose disciple he was, spread the Gospel in Friesland and Saxony.


At Soissons in France, St. Godfrey, bishop of Amiens, a man of great sanctity.

At Verdun in France, St. Maur, bishop and confessor.

At Tours in France, St. Clarus, a priest whose epitaph was written by St. Paulinus.

And elsewhere in divers places, many other holy martyrs, confessors, and holy virgins.
R. Thanks be to God.

[OmniaInstaurareInChristo]

The reading appointed from the Rule of St. Benedict for November 8:

CHAPTER XXXI
The Kind of Man the Cellarer of the Monastery Ought to Be (cont.)

Above all things, let him be humble; and if he hath not the things to give, let him answer with a kind word, because it is written: "A good word is above the best gift" (Sir 18:17). Let him have under his charge everything that the Abbot hath entrusted to him, and not presume to meddle with matters forbidden him. Let him give the brethren their apportioned allowance without a ruffle or delay, that they may not be scandalized, mindful of what the Divine Word declareth that he deserveth who shall scandalize one of these little ones: "It were better for him that a millstone were hanged about his neck and that he were drowned in the depth of the sea" (Mt 18:6).

If the community is large, let assistants be given him, that, with their help, he too may fulfil the office entrusted to him with an even temper. Let the things that are to be given be distributed, and the things that are to be gotten asked for at the proper times, so that nobody may be disturbed or grieved in the house of God.


Martyrology-November 9th
Roman Martyrology-November 9th-on this date in various years-

At Rome in the Lateran, the Dedication of the Basilica of the Saviour, which is the Mother and Head of all churches in the city and the world.

At Amasea in Pontus, the birthday of St. Theodore, a soldier, in the time of Emperor Maximian. For the confession of Christ he was severely scourged and sent to prison, where he was comforted by an apparition of our Lord, who exhorted him to act with courage and constancy. He was finally stretched on the rack, lacerated with iron hooks until his bowels were laid bare, then cast into the flames to be burned alive. His glorious deeds have been celebrated in a eulogy by Gregory of Nyssa.

At Tyana in Cappadocia, the martyrdom of St. Orestes under Emperor Diocletian.

At Thessalonica, under Emperor Maximian, St. Alexander, martyr.

At Bourges in Aquitaine, St. Ursinus, confessor, who was ordained at Rome by the successors of the apostles and appointed first bishop of that city.

At Naples in Campania, St. Agrippinus, bishop, renowned for miracles.

At Constantinople, the holy virgins Eustolia, a Roman maiden, and Sopatra, the daughter of Emperor Maurice

At Berytus in Syria, the Commemoration of the Image of our Saviour, which, being fastnened to a cross by the Jews, poured out blood so plentifully that the Eastern and Western Churches received abundantly of it.

And elsewhere in divers places, many other holy martyrs, confessors, and holy virgins.
R. Thanks be to God.

[OmniaInstaurareInChristo]

The reading appointed from the Rule of St. Benedict for November 9:

CHAPTER XXXII
Of the Tools and Goods of the Monastery

Let the Abbot appoint brethren on whose life and character he can rely, over the property of the monastery in tools, clothing, and things generally, and let him assign to them, as he shall deem proper, all the articles which must be collected after use and stored away. Let the Abbot keep a list of these articles, so that, when the brethren in turn succeed each other in these trusts, he may know what he giveth and what he receiveth back. If anyone, however, handleth the goods of the monastery slovenly or carelessly let him be reprimanded and if he doth not amend let him come under the discipline of the Rule.

Martyrology-November 10th
Roman Martyrology-November 10th-on this date in various years-

At Naples in Campania, the birthday of St. Andrew Avellini, Cleric Regular and confessor, celebrated for his sanctity, his zeal in procuring the salvation of souls, and renowned for his miracles. He was inscribed on the catalogue of the Saints by Pope Clement XI.

On the same day, the birthday of the holy martyrs Trypho and Respicius, and the virgin Nympha.

At Rome, Pope St. Leo I, confessor and doctor of the Church, surnamed the Great because of his extraordinary merits. During his pontificate the holy Council of Chalcedon was held which condemned Eutyches thruogh his legates, and whose decrees were afterwards given the seal of his authority. After meriting the gratitude of the Church of God and the whole flock of Christ by the many decrees which he issued, and by the many excellent works which he wrote, this good and zealous shepherd rested in peace. His feast is celebrated on the 11th of April.

At Iconium in Lycaonia, the holy women Tryphenna and Tryphosa, who profited by the preaching of blessed Paul and the example of Thecla to make great progress in Christian perfection.

At Antioch, Saints Demetrius, bishop, Anian, deacon, Eustosius, and twenty other martyrs.

In the diocese of Agde in France, the holy martyrs Tiberius, Modestus, and Florence, who were subjected to diverse torments and fulfilled their martyrdom in the time of Diocletian.

At Ravenna, St. Probus, a bishop renowned for miracles.

At Orleans in France, St. Monitor, bishop and confessor.

In England, St. Justus, bishop, who was sent by Pope Gregory with Augustine, Mellitus, and others to preach the Gospel in that country. There he went to repose in the Lord, celebrated for his sanctity.

In the town of Melun in France, St. Leo, confessor.

In the island of Paros, St. Theoctistis, virgin.

And elsewhere in divers places, many other holy martyrs, confessors, and holy virgins.
R. Thanks be to God.

[OmniaInstaurareInChristo]

The reading appointed from the Rule of St. Benedict for November 10:

CHAPTER XXXIII
Whether Monks Ought to Have Anything of Their Own

The vice of personal ownership must by all means be cut out in the monastery by the very root, so that no one may presume to give or receive anything without the command of the Abbot; nor to have anything whatever as his own, neither a book, nor a writing tablet, nor a pen, nor anything else whatsoever, since monks are allowed to have neither their bodies nor their wills in their own power. Everything that is necessary, however, they must look for from the Father of the monastery; and let it not be allowed for anyone to have anything which the Abbot did not give or permit him to have. Let all things be common to all, as it is written. And let no one call or take to himself anything as his own (cf Acts 4:32). But if anyone should be found to indulge this most baneful vice, and, having been admonished once and again, doth not amend, let him be subjected to punishment.


Martyrology-November 11th
Roman Martyrology-November 11th-on this date in various years-

At Tours in France, the birthday of blessed Martin, bishop and confessor, whose life was so renowned for miracles that he received the power to raise three persons from the dead.

At Cotyaeum in Phrygia, during the persecution of Diocletian, the celebrated martyrdom of St. Mennas, an Egyptian soldier, who cast off the military belt and obtained the grace of serving the King of heaven secretly in the desert. Afterwards, coming out publicly and freely declaring himself a Christian, he was first subjected to severe torments; and finally kneeling in prayer, giving thanks to our Lord Jesus Christ, he was slain with the sword. After his death he became renowned for many miracles.

At Ravenna, the holy martyrs Valentine, Felician, and Victorinus, who were crowned during the persecution of Diocletian.

In Mesopotamia, St. Athenodorus, martyr, who was subjected to fire and other torments under the same Diocletian and the governor Eleusius. He was at length sentenced to be beheaded, but when the executioner fell to the ground and no other person would dare to strike him with the sword, he passed to his repose in the Lord while praying.

At Lyons in France, St. Veranus, bishop, whose life was illustrious for his faith and his other virtues.

At Constantinople, St. Theodore, abbot of Studium, who fought valiantly for the Catholic faith against the Iconoclasts, and became famed throughout the universal Church.

In the monastery of Grottaferrata, in the Tuscan plain, the holy abbot Bartholomew, a companion of blessed Nilus, whose life he wrote.

In the province of Abruzzi, blessed Mennas, a solitary whose virtues and miracles are mentioned by Pope St. Gregory.

And elsewhere in divers places, many other holy martyrs, confessors, and holy virgins.
R. Thanks be to God.

[OmniaInstaurareInChristo]

The reading appointed from the Rule of St. Benedict for November 11:

CHAPTER XXXIV
Whether All Should Receive in Equal Measure What Is Necessary

It is written, "Distribution was made to everyone according as he had need" (Acts 4:35). We do not say by this that respect should be had for persons (God forbid), but regard for infirmities. Let him who hath need of less thank God and not give way to sadness, but let him who hath need of more, humble himself for his infirmity, and not be elated for the indulgence shown him; and thus all the members will be at peace.

Above all, let not the evil of murmuring appear in the least word or sign for any reason whatever. If anyone be found guilty herein, let him be placed under very severe discipline.

Martyrology-November 12th
Roman Martyrology-November 12th-on this date in various years-

The Feast of St. Martin I, pope and martyr, whose birthday is mentioned on
the 16th day of September.


At Witebsk in Poland, the martyrdom of St. Josaphat, of the Order of St.
Basil, a Polish archbishop and martyr, who was cruelly slain by schismatics
through hatred of Catholic unity and truth. He was canonized by Pope Pius IX,
and his feast is observed on the 16th of November.

At Alcala in Spain, the birthday of St. Didacus, confessor, a member of the
Order of Friars Minor well known for his humility. Pope Sixtus V included
him in the catalogue of the saints and his feast is celebrated on the day
following.

In Asia, the martyrdom of the holy bishops Aurelius and Publius.

At Eschen in Belgium, St. Livinus, bishop and martyr. After converting
many to the faith he was slain by heathens. His body, however, was afterwards
translated to Ghent.

At Gnesen in Poland, the holy hermits and martyrs Benedict, John, Matthew,
Isaac, and Christian. They were savagely attacked by robbers and slain by
the sword while there were at prayer.

In the neighbourhood of Sens, St. Paternus, monk and martyr. He had met
some robbers in a nearby forest, and for attempting to persuade them to amend
their lives, they slew him.

At Avignon, St. Rufus, the first bishop of that city.

At Cologne, the death of St. Cunibert, bishop.

At Tarazona in Aragon, blessed Emilian, a priest favoured with many
miracles. His admirable life was recorded by St. Braulio, bishop of Saragossa.

At Constantinople, St. Nilus, abbot, who resigned as prefect of the city to
become a monk, and during the reign of Theodosius the Younger became
distinguished for his learning and sanctity.

And elsewhere in divers places, many other holy martyrs, confessors, and
holy virgins.
R. Thanks be to God.

[OmniaInstaurareInChristo]

The reading appointed from the Rule of St. Benedict for November 12:

CHAPTER XXXV
Of the Weekly Servers in the Kitchen

Let the brethren serve each other so that no one be excused from the work in the kitchen, except on account of sickness or more necessary work, because greater merit and more charity is thereby acquired. Let help be given to the weak, however, that they may not do this work with sadness; but let all have help according to the size of the community and the circumstances of the place. If the community is large, let the Cellarer be excused from the kitchen, or if, as we have said, any are engaged in more urgent work; let the rest serve each other in charity.

Let him who is to go out of the weekly service, do the cleaning on Saturday. Let him wash the towels with which the brethren wipe their hands and feet. Let him who goeth out, as well as him who is to come in, wash the feet of all. Let him return the utensils of his department to the Cellarer clean and whole. Let the Cellarer give the same to the one who cometh in, so that he may know what he giveth and what he receiveth back.


Martyrology-November 13th
Roman Martyrology-November 13th-on this date in various years-

St. Didacus, confessor of the Order of Friars Minor, whose birthday occurred on the preceding day.

At Ravenna, the birthday of the holy martyrs Valentine, Salutor, and Victor, who suffered under Emperor Diocletian.

At Aix, in the province of Narbonne, the renowned martyr, blessed Mitrius.

At Caesarea in Palestine, the martyrdom of the Saints Antoninus, Zebina, Germanus, and the virgin Ennatha. Under Galerius Maximian, Ennatha was scourged and burned alive, while the others, for boldly reproaching the governor Firmilian for his idolatry in sacrificing to the gods, were beheaded.

In Africa, the holy martyrs Arcadius, Paschasius, Probus, and Eutychian, Spaniards who absolutely refused to yield to the Arian perfidy, during the persecution of the Vandals. Accordingly, they were condemned by the Arian king Genseric, driven into exile, and finally, after being subjected to fearful tortures, were put to death in divers manners. At that time there was also seen the constancy of the small boy Paulillus, brother of the Saints Paschasius and Eutychian. Because he could not be turned from the Catholic faith, he was long beaten with rods and sentenced to the lowest servitude.

At Rome, Pope St. Nicholas, distinguished for the apostolic spirit.

At Tours in France, St. Brice, bishop, a disciple of the blessed Bishop Martin.

At Toledo in Spain, St. Eugene, bishop.

In Auvergne in France, St. Quinctian, bishop.

At Cremona, in the duchy of Milan, St. Homobonus, confessor, renowned for miracles, whom Innocent III placed among the saints.

And elsewhere in divers places, many other holy martyrs, confessors, and holy virgins.
R. Thanks be to God.

[OmniaInstaurareInChristo]

The reading appointed from the Rule of St. Benedict for November 13:

CHAPTER XXXV
Of the Weekly Servers in the Kitchen (cont.)

An hour before meal time let the weekly servers receive each a cup of drink and a piece of bread over the prescribed portion, that they may serve their brethren at the time time of refection without murmuring and undue strain. On solemn feast days, however, let them abstain till after Mass.

As soon as the morning office on Sunday is ended, let the weekly servers who come in and who go out, cast themselves upon their knees in the oratory before all, asking their prayers. Let him who goeth out of the weekly service, say the following verse: Benedictus es, Domine Deus, qui adjuvisti me et consolatus se me (Dan 3:52; Ps 85[86]:17). The one going out having said this three times and received the blessing, let the one who cometh in follow and say: Deus in adjutorium meum intende; Domine, ad adjuvandum me festina (Ps 69[70]:2). And let this also be repeated three times by all, and having received the blessing let him enter upon his weekly service.

Martyrology-November 14th
Roman Martyrology-November 14th-on this date in various years-

St. Josaphat, of the Order of St. Basil, archbishop and martyr of Poland, whose birthday was observed on the 12th of November.

At Gangra in Paphlagonia, St. Hypatius, bishop, who on his way home from the great Council of Nicaea, was attacked with stones by the Novatian heretics, and died a martyr.

At Heraclea in Thrace, the birthday of the holy martyrs Clementinus, Theodotus and Philomenus.

At Alexandria, St. Serapion, martyr, whom the persecutors under Emperor Decius subjected to torments so cruel that all his limbs were disjointed. He became a martyr of Christ by being hurled from the upper part of the house.

At Troyes in France, under Emperor Aurelian, St. Venerandus, martyr.

Also in France, the holy virgin Veneranda, who received the crown of martyrdom under Emperor Antoninus and the governor Asclepiades.

At Emesa in Phoenicia, the martyrdom of many holy women, who were barbarously tortured and massacred for the faith of Christ under Mady, a savage Arabian chief.

At Bologna, St. Jucundus, bishop and confessor.

At Eu in France, St. Laurence, bishop of Dublin.

At Algiers in Africa, blessed Serapion, of the Order of Our Blessed Lady of Ransom. For the redemption of the faithful in captivity and the preaching of the Christian faith, he was the first of his Order to merit the palm of martyrdom, being crucified and torn limb from limb.

And elsewhere in divers places, many other holy martyrs, confessors, and holy virgins.
R. Thanks be to God.

[OmniaInstaurareInChristo]

The reading appointed from the Rule of St. Benedict for November 14:

CHAPTER XXXVI
Of the Sick Brethren

Before and above all things, care must be taken of the sick, that they be served in very truth as Christ is served; because He hath said, "I was sick and you visited Me" (Mt 25:36). And "As long as you did it to one of these My least brethren, you did it to Me" (Mt 25:40). But let the sick themselves also consider that they are served for the honor of God, and let them not grieve their brethren who serve them by unnecessary demands. These must, however, be patiently borne with, because from such as these a more bountiful reward is gained. Let the Abbot's greatest concern, therefore, be that they suffer no neglect.

Let a cell be set apart for the sick brethren, and a God-fearing, diligent, and careful attendant be appointed to serve them. Let the use of the bath be offered to the sick as often as it is useful, but let it be granted more rarely to the healthy and especially the young. Thus also let the use of meat be granted to the sick and to the very weak for their recovery. But when they have been restored let them all abstain from meat in the usual manner.

But let the Abbot exercise the utmost care that the sick are not neglected by the Cellarer or the attendants, because whatever his disciples do amiss falleth back on him.

Martyrology-November 15th
Roman Martyrology-November 15th-on this date in various years-

At Cologne, St. Albert, surnamed the Great, bishop and confessor of the
Order of Preachers, renowned for his holiness and learning. Pope Pius XI
appointed him as Doctor of the universal Church, and Piius XII appointed him as
heavenly patron of those studying the natural sciences.

Also, the birthday of St. Eugene, bishop of Toledo and martyr, disciple of
blessed Denis the Areopagite. His martyrdom was completed near Paris, and he
received from our Lord a crown for his blessed sufferings. His body was
afterwards translated to Toledo in Spain.

At Nola in Campania, blessed Felix, bishop and martyr, who was renowned for
miracles from his fifteenth year. He completed the combats of his martyrdom
with thirty others, under the governor Marcian.

At Edessa in Mesopotamia, the martyrdom of St. Abibus, deacon, who was torn
with iron hooks and cast into the fire in the time of Emperor Licinius and
the governor Lysanias.

In the same place, the holy martyrs Gurias and Samonas, under Emperor
Diocletian and the governor Antoninus.

In Africa, the holy martyrs Secundus, Fidentian, and Varicus.

At Archingeay, in the neighbourhood of Saintes, the birthday of St. Malo,
bishop of Aleth, in France. He was born in England and from his earliest
years was famed for his miracles.

At Verona, St. Luperius, bishop and confessor.

At Klosterneuburg, near Vienna in Austria, St. Leopold, margrave of that
province of Austria. He was placed on the canon of the saints by Pope Innocent
VIII.

And elsewhere in divers places, many other holy martyrs, confessors, and
holy virgins.
R. Thanks be to God.

[OmniaInstaurareInChristo]

The reading appointed from the Rule of St. Benedict for November 15:

CHAPTER XXXVII
Of the Aged and Children

Although human nature is of itself drawn to feel compassion for these
life-periods, namely, old age and childhood, still, let the decree of the Rule
make provision also for them. Let their natural weakness be always taken into account and let the strictness of the Rule not be kept with them in respect to food, but let there be a tender regard in their behalf and let them eat before regular hours.

Martyrology-November 16th
Roman Martyrology-November 16th-on this date in various years-

St. Gertrude, virgin, whose birthday is on the 17th of November.

At Edinburgh in Scotland, the birthday of St. Margaret, queen of the Scots and widow, renowned for her love of the poor and her voluntary poverty. Her feast is celebrated on the 10th of June.

In Africa, the holy martyrs Rufinus, Mark, Valerius, and their fellows.

The same day, the holy martyrs Elpidius, Marcellus, Eustochius, and their companions. Elpidius, who was a senator, perseveringly confessed the Christian faith before Julian the Apostate, and, with his companions, was tied to wild horses and dragged by them, thus fulfilling a glorious martyrdom.

At Lyons in France, the birthday of St. Eucherius, bishop and confessor, a man of extraordinary faith and learning. He renounced the senatorial dignity to embrace the religious life, and for a long time voluntarily shut himself up in a cave, where he served Christ in prayer and fasting. Afterwards, through the revelation of an angel, he was solemnly installed in the episcopal chair of the city of Lyons.

At Padua, St. Fidentius, bishop.

At Canterbury in England, St. Edmund, archbishop and confessor, who was sent into exile for having maintained the rights of his church. He died a most holy death at Provins, a town near Sens, and was canonized by Innocent IV.

The same day, the death of St. Othmar, abbot.

And elsewhere in divers places, many other holy martyrs, confessors, and holy virgins.
R. Thanks be to God.

[OmniaInstaurareInChristo]

The reading appointed from the Rule of St. Benedict for November 16:

CHAPTER XXXVIII
Of the Weekly Reader

Reading must not be wanting at the table of the brethren when they are eating. Neither let anyone who may chance to take up the book venture to read there; but let him who is to read for the whole week enter upon that office on Sunday. After Mass and Communion let him ask all to pray for him that God may ward off from him the spirit of pride. And let the following verse be said three times by all in the oratory, he beginning it: Domine, labia mea aperies, et os meum annuntiabit laudem tuam (Ps 50[51]:17), and thus having received the blessing let him enter upon the reading.

Let the deepest silence be maintained that no whispering or voice be heard except that of the reader alone. But let the brethren so help each other to what is needed for eating and drinking, that no one need ask for anything. If, however, anything should be wanted, let it be asked for by means of a sign of any kind rather than a sound. And let no one presume to ask any questions there, either about the book or anything else, in order that no cause to speak be given [to the devil] (Eph 4:27; 1 Tm 5:14), unless, perchance, the Superior wisheth to say a few words for edification.

Let the brother who is reader for the week take a little bread and wine before he beginneth to read, on account of Holy Communion, and lest it should be too hard for him to fast so long. Afterward, however, let him take his meal in the kitchen with the weekly servers and the waiters. The brethren, however, will not read or sing in order, but only those who edify their hearers.

Martyrology-November 17th
Roman Martyrology-November 17th-on this date in various years-

At Neocaesarea in Pontus, the birthday of St. Gregory, bishop and confessor, illustrious for his learning and sanctity. The signs and miracles which he wrought to the great glory of the Church gained for him the surname Wonderworker.

At Hedelfs in Saxony, the birthday of St. Gertrude, virgin of the Order of St. Benedict, who was famous for her revelations. Her feast is observed on the preceding day.

In Palestine, in the first year of Diocletian's persecution, the holy martyrs Alpheus and Zachaeus, who underwent beheading after many tortures.

At Cordova in Spain, during the same persecution, the holy martyrs Acisclus and his sister Victoria, who were most cruelly tortured by order of the governor Dion, and thus merited to be crowned by our Lord for their glorious sufferings.

At Alexandria, St. Denis, bishop, a man of very great learning. In the time of Emperors Valerian and Gallienus, renowned for often having confessed the faith, and illustrious for the various sufferings and torments he had endured, full of days he rested in peace a confessor.

At Orleans in France, St. Anian, bishop, the value of whose death in the sight of the Lord is attested by frequent miracles.

In England, St. Hugh, bishop, who was called to rule the church of Lincoln. He ended his holy life in peace, renowned for many miracles.

At Tours in France, St. Gregory, bishop.

At Florence, St. Eugene, confessor, the deacon of blessed Zenobius, bishop of that city.

And elsewhere in divers places, many other holy martyrs, confessors, and holy virgins.
R. Thanks be to God.

[OmniaInstaurareInChristo]

The reading appointed from the Rule of St. Benedict for November 17:

CHAPTER XXXIX
Of the Quantity of Food

Making allowance for the infirmities of different persons, we believe that for the daily meal, both at the sixth and the ninth hour, two kinds of cooked food are sufficient at all meals; so that he who perchance cannot eat of one, may make his meal of the other. Let two kinds of cooked food, therefore, be sufficient for all the brethren. And if there be fruit or fresh vegetables, a third may be added. Let a pound of bread be sufficient for the day, whether there be only one meal or both dinner and supper. If they are to eat supper, let a third part of the pound be reserved by the Cellarer and be given at supper.

If, however, the work hath been especially hard, it is left to the discretion and power of the Abbot to add something, if he think fit, barring above all things every excess, that a monk be not overtaken by indigestion. For nothing is so contrary to Christians as excess, as our Lord saith: "See that your hearts be not overcharged with surfeiting" (Lk 21:34).

Let the same quantity of food, however, not be served out to young children but less than to older ones, observing measure in all things.

But let all except the very weak and the sick abstain altogether from eating the flesh of four-footed animals.

Martyrology-November 18th
Roman Martyrology-November 18th-on this date in various years-

At Rome, the dedication of the basilica of the holy apostles Peter and
Paul. The former, having been enlarged, was on this day solemnly consecrated by Urban VIII; while the latter, more beautifully rebuilt after its total destruction by fire, was solemnly dedicated on the 10th of December by Pius IX, though the feast in commemoration of that event was transferred to this day.

At Antioch, the birthday of St. Romanus, martyr, in the time of Emperor
Galerius. When the prefect Asclepiades attacked the Church and attempted to destroy it, Romanus exhorted the Christians to resist him. After being subjected to severe torments and the cutting out of his tongue (without which, however, he spake the praises of God), he was strangled in prison and crowned with glorious martyrdom. Before him suffered a young boy named Barula, who being asked by him whether it was better to worship one God or several gods, and having answered that we must believe in the one God whom the Christians adore,
was scourged and beheaded.

Also at Antioch, the holy martyr Hesychius, a soldier. Hearing the order
that anyone refusing to sacrifice to idols should lay aside his military belt,
he immediately took off his. For this reason he was cast into the river
with a large stone tied to his right hand.

On the same day, St. Oriculus and his companions, who suffered for the
Catholic faith in the Vandal persecution.

At Mainz, St. Maximus, bishop, who suffered greatly at the hands of the
Arians, and died a confessor in the time of Constantius.

At Tours in France, the passing of blessed Odo, abbot of Cluny.

At Antioch, St. Thomas, a monk honoured with an annual solemnity by the people of Antioch, for bringing the end of a plague by his prayers.

At Lucca in Tuscany, the translation of St. Frigidian, bishop and confessor.

And elsewhere in divers places, many other holy martyrs, confessors, and holy virgins.
R. Thanks be to God.

[OmniaInstaurareInChristo]

The reading appointed from the Rule of St. Benedict for November 18:

CHAPTER XL
Of the Quantity of Drink

"Every one hath his proper gift from God, one after this manner and another after that" (1 Cor 7:7). It is with some hesitation, therefore, that we determine the measure of nourishment for others. However, making allowance for the weakness of the infirm, we think one hemina of wine a day is sufficient for each one. But to whom God granteth the endurance of abstinence, let them know that they will have their special reward. If the circumstances of the place, or the work, or the summer's heat should require more, let that depend on the judgment of the Superior, who must above all things see to it, that excess or drunkenness do not creep in.

Although we read that wine is not at all proper for monks, yet, because monks in our times cannot be persuaded of this, let us agree to this, at least, that we do not drink to satiety, but sparingly; because "wine maketh even wise men fall off" (Sir 19:2). But where the poverty of the place will not permit the aforesaid measure to be had, but much less, or none at all, let those who live there bless God and murmur not. This we charge above all things, that they live without murmuring.


Martyrology-November 19th
Roman Martyrology-November 19th-on this date in various years-

At Marburg in Germany, the death of St. Elizabeth, widow, daugher of King Andrew of Hungary, and member of the Third Order of St. Francis. After a life spent in the performance of works of piety, she went to heaven, having a reputation for miracles.

St. Pontian, pope and martyr, whose birthday occurs on the 30th of October.

At Samária in Palestine, the holy prophet Abdias.

At Rome, on the Appian Way, the birthday of St. Maximus, priest and martyr, who suffered in the persecution of Valerian and was buried near St. Sixtus.

At Ecijo in Spain, blessed Bishop Crispin, who obtained the glory of martyrdom by beheading.

St. Faustus, deacon of Alexandria, who had been banished with St. Denis in the persecution of Valerian; later, in the persecution of Diocletian, being advanced in age, his martyrdom was accomplished by the sword.

At Caesarea in Cappadocia, St. Barlaam, martyr, who, though unpolished and ignorant, was armed with the wisdom of Christ to overcome the tyrant, and by the constancy of his faith, subdue fire itself. On his birthday, St. Basil the Great delivered a celebrated sermon.

At Vienne in France, the holy martyrs Severinus, Exuperius and Felician. Their bodies, after the lapse of many years, were found through their own revelation, and being taken up with due honours by the bishop, clergy, and people of that city, were buried with becoming solemnity.

In Isauria the martyrdom of St. Azas and his soldier companions, to the number of one hundred and fifty, under Emperor Diocletian and the tribune Aquilinus.

And elsewhere in divers places, many other holy martyrs, confessors, and holy virgins.
R. Thanks be to God.

[OmniaInstaurareInChristo]

The reading appointed from the Rule of St. Benedict for November 19:

CHAPTER XLI
At What Times the Brethren Should Take Their Refection

From holy Easter till Pentecost let the brethren dine at the sixth hour and take supper in the evening. From Pentecost on, however, during the whole summer, if the monks have no work in the fields and the excess of the heat doth not interfere, let them fast on Wednesday and Friday until the ninth hour; but on the other days let them dine at the sixth hour. This sixth hour for dinner is to be continued, if they have work in the fields or the heat of the summer is great. Let the Abbot provide for this; and so let him manage and adapt everything that souls may be saved, and that what the brethren do, they may do without having a reasonable cause to murmur. From the ides of September until the beginning of Lent let them always dine at the ninth hour. During Lent, however, until Easter, let them dine in the evening. But let this evening hour be so arranged that they will not need lamp-light during their meal; but let everything be finished whilst it is still day. But at all times let the hour of meals, whether for dinner or for supper, be so arranged that everything is done by daylight.

Martyrology-November 20th
Roman Martyrology-November 20th-on this date in various years-

St. Felix of Valois, priest and confessor, who founded the Order of the Most Holy Trinity for the Redemption of Captives, and who fell asleep in the Lord on the 4th of November.

In Persia, the martyrdom of St. Nersas, bishop, and his companions.

At Messina in Sicily, the holy martyrs Ampelus and Caius.

At Turin, the holy martyrs Octavius, Solutor, and Adventor, soldiers of the Theban Legion, who fought valiantly for the faith under Emperor Maximian and who were crowned with martyrdom.

At Caesarea in Palestine, in the time of Emperor Galerius Maximian, the holy martyr Agapius, who was condemned to be devoured by the beasts; but being unhurt by them, he was cast into the sea with stones tied to his feet.

At Silistria in Rumania, St. Dasius, bishop, who, for refusing to consent to the unholy rites of the Saturnalia, was put to death under the governor Bassus.

At Nicaea in Bithynia, the holy martyrs Eustace, Thespesius, and Anatolius, in the persecution of Maximinus.

At Heraclea in Thrace, the holy martyrs Bassus, Denis, Agapitus, and forty others.

In England, St. Edmund, king and martyr.

At Constantinople, St. Gregory of Decapolis, who suffered many things for the veneration of sacred images.

At Milan, St. Benignus, bishop, who, amid great troubles caused by the barbarians, governed the Church entrusted to him with greatest constancy and piety.

At Chalons in France, St. Sylvester, bishop, who went to God in the forty-second year of his priesthood, full of days and virtues.

At Verona, St. Simplicius, bishop and confessor.

At Hildesheim in Saxony, St. Bernard, bishop and confessor, who was numbered among the saints by Pope Celestine III.

And elsewhere in divers places, many other holy martyrs, confessors, and holy virgins.
R. Thanks be to God.

[OmniaInstaurareInChristo]

The reading appointed from the Rule of St. Benedict for November 20:

CHAPTER XLII
That No One Speak after Complin

Monks should always be given to silence, especially, however, during the hours of the night. Therefore, on every day, whether of fast or of a mid-day meal, as soon as they have risen from their evening meal, let all sit together in one place, and let one read the Conferences or the Lives of the Fathers, or something else that will edify the hearers; not, however, the Heptateuch or the Books of the Kings, because it would not be wholesome for weak minds to hear this part of the Scripture at that hour; they should, however, be read at other times. But if it was a fast-day, then, when Vespers have been said, and after a short interval, let them next come together for the reading of the Conferences, as we have said; and when the four or five pages have been read, or as much as the hour will permit, and all have assembled in one place during the time of the reading, let him also come who was perchance engaged in work enjoined on him. All, therefore, having assembled in one place, let them say Complin, and after going out from Complin, let there be no more permission from that time on for anyone to say anything.

If, however, anyone is found to break this rule, let him undergo heavy punishment, unless the needs of guests should arise, or the Abbot should perhaps give a command to anyone. But let even this be done with the utmost gravity and moderation.

Martyrology-November 21st
Roman Martyrology-November 21st-on this date in various years-

In the temple at Jerusalem, the Presentation of the Blessed Virgin Mary, Mother of God.

Also, the birthday of blessed Rufus, mentioned by the apostle St. Paul in his Epistle to the Romans.

At Rome, the martyrdom of the Saints Celsus and Clement.

At Rheims, St. Albert, bishop of Liege and martyr, who was put to death for defending the liberty of the Church.

At Ostia, the holy martyrs Demetrius and Honorius.

In Spain, the holy martyrs Honorius, Eutychius, and Stephen.

In Pamphylia, St. Heliodorus, martyr, in the persecution of Aurelian under the governor Aetius. After his death his executioners were converted to the faith and were cast into the sea.

At Rome, Pope St. Gelasius, distinguished for learning and sanctity.

At Verona, St. Maur, bishop and confessor.

In the monastery of Bobbio, the death of St. Columban, abbot who founded many monasteries and governed a large number of monks. He died at an advanced age, celebrated for many virtues.

And elsewhere in divers places, many other holy martyrs, confessors, and holy virgins.
R. Thanks be to God.