This month we highlight and honour the lives of some very significant figures in the Church. Each of these saints celebrated in June inspire us to live a life of compassion, purpose and witness.
St Justin Martyr – June 1st
St Justin Martyr was an early Christian apologist (early Christian writer) and philosopher. Many of his works were lost overtime, however, there are 2 apologies and a dialogue that have been found. These texts are The First Apology, The Second Apology, and The Dialogue with Trypho. Through his skill of writing, St Justin heroically defended the Christian faith, and ultimately died for his faith as he was beheaded along with a number of his students, under the authority of Emperor Marcus Aurelius. He is the patron saint of apologists, philosophers and speakers, and his life reminds us to be fearless witnesses of the faith.
St Barnabas – June 11th
Originally named Joseph, St Barnabas was known for being a companion of St Paul on his missionary journeys. St Barnabas was an advocate for St Paul when he converted from persecuting Christians to wanting to become a Christian and encouraged the disciples to forgive him. Due to this, he is the patron saint of second chances. St Barnabas is remembered and praised for his generosity and compassion, as he sold his property and donated all proceeds to the community. His live reminds us that the Church needs encouragers, to invite more people to the Christian faith.
St Anthony of Padua – June 13th
St Anthony is one of the Doctors of the Church. In his teenage years, St Anthony joined the religious order of St Augustine. Later on, he received the Franciscan habit and travelled to Morocco. During his time here, he became seriously ill and needed to return home. The ship he was on encountered intense storms and was redirected to Sicily. During his time as a Friar, he was known for his deep knowledge of scripture and his ability to communicate complex truths in such a simple yet profound way to those around him. St Anthony is the patron saint of lost items.
St Aloysius Gonzaga – June 21st
St Aloysuis was destined for a military career due to his family history, however, instead gave up his inheritance and social status for a life of prayer, care and compassion. During his time as a Jesuit, a fierce plague broke out in Rome, which found St Aloysuis caring for the victims of the plague. Through this selfless work, he contracted the plague himself and died at the young age of 23. He tirelessly worked for the sick and dying, and his life is a powerful testimony that true greatness can be found in service and sacrifice. He is the patron saint of youth and students.
Sts Peter and Paul – June 29th
Saints Peter and Paul, two significant figures and pillars of the Church, were two vastly different men who ultimately shared the same faith. St Peter was a fisherman who was chosen by Jesus to be the leader of the apostles. He is recognised as the first Pope of the Church. St Paul on the other hand, persecuted Christians. He had a dramatic encounter on the road to Damascus, which resulted in his conversion. The pair are celebrated together as they were both considered to be founders of the Church in Rome and it is believed they were both martyred during the reign of Emperor Nero. St Peter is the patron saint of fisherman, locksmiths and Rome, and St Paul is the patron saint of missionaries, writers and tentmakers.
