Saint of the Day for 18 April
Saint of the Day 18 April: Celebrating the Lives of the Church’s Saints
Every day, the Catholic Church honors a saint or blessed who stood out for their faith, dedication, and love for God. The Saint of the Day is an opportunity for the faithful to learn more about the history of the Church and be inspired by the witness of these men and women who lived according to Christ’s teachings.
The Meaning of the Saint of the Day
The celebration of the Saint of the Day is a Church tradition that helps us remember those who were examples of faith and holiness. Saints may have been martyrs who gave their lives defending their faith, missionaries who spread the Gospel, or ordinary people who lived in deep communion with God through simplicity.
Learning about each saint’s story inspires us to live with more love, patience, and hope. It also reminds us that we are all called to holiness.
Why Do We Celebrate the Saints?
Saints serve as models of Christian life. Their stories show us that, despite challenges, it is possible to live according to God’s will. Moreover, the faithful often seek the intercession of saints, believing that they are close to God and can pray for our needs.
Following the Saint of the Day is a way to strengthen our spiritual journey and learn from those who dedicated their lives to serving God. May we follow their examples and strive each day to live with greater love, faith, and hope!
🙏 May today’s Saint of the Day intercede for us and inspire us to live according to God’s will!
In 1162, Galdinus witnessed the destruction of Milan by Frederick I Barbarossa, and sided with Pope Alexander III against the anti-Pope Victor VI. He was created Cardinal, and became Archbishop of the city, which he worked to rebuild, both physically and spiritually. He died in 1176.
Liturgical Calendar
18 April: Good Friday of the Lord’s Passion
Today's Readings and Gospel
Reading I:
Isaiah 52:13—53:12
Reading II:
Hebrews 4:14-16; 5:7-9
Verse Before the Gospel:
Philippians 2:8-9
:
Gospel:
John 18:1—19:42
Liturgical vestments: Purple
“The Cross is the most profound bowing down of the Divinity towards man. The Cross is like a touch of eternal love on the most painful wounds of humanity’s earthly existence.” (Saint John Paul II)
“Forgiveness exacts a price—first of all from the person who forgives (…). God could overcome men’s guilt and suffering only by bringing himself into play, by becoming in his Son a sufferer who carried this burden and overcame it through his self-surrender.” (Benedict XVI)
“The desire to embrace his Father's plan of redeeming love inspired Jesus' whole life, for his redemptive passion was the very reason for his Incarnation. And so he asked, 'and what shall I say? 'Father, save me from this hour?' No, for this purpose I have come to this hour' (Jn 12:27). And again, ‘Shall I not drink the cup which the Father has given me?’ (Jn 18,11). From the cross, just before ‘It is finished’ (Jn 19:30), he said, ‘I thirst’.” (Catechism Of The Catholic Church, Nº 607)