Saint of the Day for 3 April
Saint of the Day 3 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!
Bishop of Naples in a particularly turbulent period, John is remembered for having had the remains of St. Januarius translated from the Ager Marcianus to the extra-urban cemetery. He died on Holy Saturday 432 at the beginning of the liturgical celebration and was buried on the feast of Easter.
Richard became a priest after meeting Edmund Rich. As a parish priest, in England, he worked for the reform of the clergy, the free administration of the sacraments, the celebration of Mass in dignified conditions and cared for the poor and the sick. He died in 1253 in Dover.
Liturgical Calendar
3 April: Thursday of the Fourth Week of Lent
Today's Readings and Gospel
Reading 1 :
Exodus 32:7-14
Verse Before the Gospel :
John 3:16
Gospel :
John 5:31-47
Liturgical vestments: Purple
“It is not a question of knowing something about God but of having God within.” (Saint Gregory of Nyssa)
“Let your light shine in our society, in political and economic life, in culture and research. Even if it is only a flicker amid so many deceptive lights, it nonetheless draws its power and splendour from the great Morning Star, the Risen Christ.” (Benedict XVI)
“The signs worked by Jesus attest that the Father has sent him. They invite belief in him (…). So miracles strengthen faith in the One who does his Father's works (…). But his miracles can also be occasions for ‘offence’ (Mt 11:6). They are not intended to satisfy people's curiosity or desire for magic. Despite his evident miracles some people reject Jesus; he is even accused of acting by the power of demons.” (Catechism Of The Catholic Church, Nº 548)
The Father was always present in Jesus's life, and Jesus spoke about Him. Jesus prayed to the Father. And many times, He spoke about the Father who cares for us, as He cares for the birds, the lilies of the field… the Father. And when the disciples asked to learn how to pray, Jesus taught them to pray to the Father: “Our Father” (Mt 6:9). He always turns to the Father. This trust in the Father, trust in the Father who is capable of doing everything, This courage to pray, because it takes courage to pray! Praying is going with Jesus to the Father who will give you everything. Courage in prayer, boldness in prayer. Thus the Church progresses in prayer, in the courage of prayer because the Church knows that without this ascent to the Father, she cannot survive. (Santa Marta, 10 May 2020)