CSVF Blog

Come, you whom my Father has blessed, says the Lord; I was ill and you comforted me.  I tell you, anything you did for one of these you did for me.

Today is the Feast of St. Juan Macias, a Dominican lay brother who served Christ and his poor in early seventeenth-century Lima, Peru.

Born in Spain, the young Juan traveled to the New World seeking his fortune as a cattle rancher. After landing in Colombia, he eventually made his way down to Peru, where he met the Dominicans. St. Rose of Lima and St. Martin de Porres were still alive at the time.  Convinced of his vocation to the religious life, Juan entered the Order of Preachers in 1622.  

For over 20 years, St. Juan served as the porter of St. Mary Magdalen Priory.  Similar to other famous and holy porters, Juan cared for the poor who gathered at the priory door.  He also served as a spiritual guide to much of the city, sharing the fruits of his contemplation with all who sought his counsel.  

St. Juan died in 1645, and he was canonized by Pope Paul VI in 1975.

Just and merciful God, your love prompted our brother Juan Macias to become servant of all.  By his example and prayers draw us into the mystery of your goodness so that we, too, may serve our sisters and brothers.

We ask this through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, forever and ever.  Amen.

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The Cathedral of St. Patrick Young Adults are planning an apple picking excursion for Saturday, September 27.  They will leave from Grand Central Station at 9:30 AM and travel to Wright’s Apple Farm in Gardiner, NY.  Expenses will include $34.50 for the train ticket.

Email info@cspya.org if you plan to attend.

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