Saintly Families

Did you know there were a considerable number of saints who were family? Yes, there are spouses, siblings, parents, children, and close friends who became “official” saints on the calendar of the Catholic Church!

 This week, February 10, the church celebrates the feast of St. Scholastica. St. Scholastica was born in 480 and was the twin of St. Benedict who founded the Benedictine religious order. St. Scholastica founded the Benedictine religious order of women five miles away in Monte Cassino which is about 80 miles south-east of Rome in Italy. These biological twins were called by God to do great things and help others come close to God, as they themselves were close friends with God. Close family and friends becoming Saints is not rare. They encourage and nurture the faith in one another.

 Anne and Joachim, parents of the blessed Mother, are saints in the church. Cosmas and Damien, 4th century physician brothers are saints. These brothers are said to have provided free medical care for many. They also brought healing to souls by introducing their patients to the healing power of Jesus Christ. Ignatius of Loyola, founder of the Jesuits, and Francis Zavier were roommates in college. The apostles James and John are brothers and saints as are Simon (Peter) and Andrew.  Paul and Barnabas met each other sharing the Gospel to the early church. They are saints as are Francis and Clare of Assisi. Monica worked hard to make a saint out of her son Augustine. She was successful and became a saint herself. Francis de Sales and Jane Frances de Chantal grew as friends in faith as did husband and wife, Isadore the farmer and his wife Maria de la Cabeza. The list goes on! Faith is strengthened by family, friendship and community. Faith is strengthened by parishes.

 In this pandemic year, the Catholic Community of Waukesha has worked to strengthen the “domestic church.” The domestic church is the church in our homes working to make saints out of moms and dads; sisters and brothers; friends. Yes, we help one another on the road to sainthood. It is amazing the number of family and friends who have helped one another on the road to sainthood. Just think of the foundation of faith that is being set. We are making Waukesha saints right here and now. Your kids, mom and dad, friends are on the road to sainthood. Work hard and keep them on the right path! 

From our domestic church, comes domestic saints. Be on that list.

Fr. Pat Heppe
Pastor