Are you bored with being like everyone else? Do you want to be a true individual? Learn to be extra-ordinary in order to get the most out of this one life! Learn how to be full of joy by imitating a saint who was once just like you.
Click on any photo to be taken directly to a website dedicated to their legacy. Click on the blue text for videos.
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Blessed Carlo Acutis: born in Fulham, London on 3rd May 1991. Died in Milan, Italy on 11th October 2006. Carlo never wasted his short life on anything that would displease God. He was in many ways an ordinary teenager, but in reality he was extra-ordinary. He loved playing computer games such as 'Super Mario' but limited himself to only an hour per week. He used his knowledge of computer programing to collect all the known Eucharistic miracles and Marian Apparitions from the world. Here is a 25 minute video about his amazing life. Miracles were already occurring through his intercession during his funeral. He was devoted to the real presence of Jesus in the tabernacle and to the holy rosary.
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Blessed Pier Giorgio Frassati who grew up in Turin, Italy was an incredible role model of heroic virtue to all his peers.
His funeral was attended by thousands, the streets of Turin were lined with crowds all wanting to pray for the saintly young man who was known for his love of others and for his smile. Here is a short video about his life.
He was known for his love of the outdoors, including rock climbing and skiing. But above all it was his love of Jesus Christ in Holy Communion that inspired him to give so much of his time and energy to serving the poor in his work for the local St Vincent de Paul Society.
in every photo you will see his contagious smile, he loved practical jokes but was never malicious.
St John Paul 2nd called the 24 year old a "model of the Eight Beatitudes."
St Maria Goretti: a great role model for our young people who are growing up in an every increasingly sexualised and confusing culture. She died at the age of just eleven for defending her chastity and virginity. Before she died from her wounds she forgave Alexander. He later confessed his sins and having spent his time in prison was present in the Piazza of St Peter's with Maria's family on the day she was declared a Saint by Pope Pius 12th. Here is a film telling the story. |
St Tarcisius: during the 3rd Century Emperors such as Valerian were known for their lack of religious tolerance towards Christians and Jews. It was at this time that Christians would gather in the catacombs to celebrate Holy Mass together. Priests would send Deacons out from the mass to bring Holy Communion to those in prison. On one occasion in 257AD there were no deacons available so 12 year old Tarcisius was sent. On route a group of his peers savagely attacked him. "I'd rather die than let the Eucharist be profaned..."
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St Josephine Bakhita:
Born in Sudan 1869. At the age of 7 she was kidnapped and sold into slavery. Despite slavery being illegal in Sudan. The name 'Bakhita' means 'lucky.' After twelve years of harsh treatment by many 'owners' It was while staying with nuns in Venice that she discovered the Gospel and desired Baptism. She was baptised by the future St Pope Pius Xth on 9th Jan 1890. She forgave her kidnappers and slave masters. She became a nun on 8th Dec 1896. “The Lord has loved me so much: we must love everyone; we must be compassionate!” 8lessed Chiara Badano: born 29th October 1971 and died on 9th October 1990 aged 18 from a painful form of bone cancer. A short life, but it was full of life, love and faith. Her life story has inspired people all across the world; from her native Italy to Brazil, and to the Far East. She was described as a modern, sporty, positive girl, who loved music and dance and who transmitted a message of optimism and hope found in God. She reminded everyone that everyone has sufficient grace to become saints. In 2010 Pope Benedict 16th encouraged everyone to study her life and to learn from her example. Video
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St Charles Lwanga and his Companions:
22 Catholic martyrs of Uganda died on 6th June 1890 because they denied the will of their King Mwanga and for the faith. Our new parish Icon shows both St Charles and St Josephine. Here's a very short video. At a time when the secular world dictates that gender is fluid and that sexuality defines us, St Charles and his companions remind us of the truth and the need to defend it. St Jose Sanchez del Rio: St Jose was an altar boy and when he was just 14 he was tortured and killed. The film “Outlaws-For Greater glory” retells the true story of the young catholic martyrs of 1920’s Mexico who died for “Cristo Rey.” The New Mexican government led by dictator Obregon became anti catholic, the young people united to defend their right to worship.
Their hymn “The Virgin Mary is our protector and defender when there is fear. She will vanquish all demons at the cry of “Long live Christ the King!” Soldiers of Christ: Let’s follow the flag, for the cross points to the army of God! Let’s follow the flag at the cry of “Long live Christ the King!” |