Today’s Readings – Saint Aloysius Gonzaga, Religious SJ

Aloysius Gonzaga, who came from one of Italy’s most famous families, was born in the castle of Castiglione delle Stiviere, between Brescia and Mantua in northern Italy on 9 March, 1568. He was the eldest son of Ferdinando Gonzaga (1544-1586), Marquis of Castiglione, and Marta de Santena, daughter of a baron of the Piedmontese Della Rovere family. His father wanted him to be a soldier as the family was constantly involved in local conflicts. His military training started at an early age, but he also received an education in languages and other subjects.

At the age of eight, he was placed in the court of Grand Duke Francesco de’ Medici in Florence, where he remained for two years before going on to Mantua. While there he developed a kidney disease which was to trouble him for … Continue

Yesterday’s Readings – The Irish Martyrs

Note: Today we also celebrate the memorial to Blessed Francisco Pacheco and Companions martyred in Japan.*

The celebration of the Irish Martyrs includes hundreds who are remembered for giving their lives for the Catholic faith in Ireland between the years 1537 and 1714. A huge number of … Continue