Which saints are celebrated today, Monday September 9, 2024? On September 9, 2024, the catholic church celebrates several saints whose lives and devotion have inspired generations of worshipers throughout history. Among them, the figure of Santa María de la Cabeza and the Virgin of Aránzazu, two Marian devotions deeply venerated in different parts of the world. These saints are remembered for their virtues and for their intercession in the lives of Christians, who trust in them to receive protection and spiritual direction. This day is also a special date for those who bear the name Arancha or Aránzazu.
The name Arancha, derived from the Virgin of Aranzazuis quite common in Spanish culture, especially in the Basque Country, where devotion to this virgin has a long tradition. According to the most recent data from the National Institute of Statistics (INE), 2,838 people have the name Aranchawhile the name Aranzazu is worn by 12,548 people. The name Aránzazu has a deeply religious origin and is linked to the apparition of the Virgin on a hawthorn in the town of Oñate, in the Basque Country. This event dates back to the 15th century, when a shepherd discovered the image of the Virgin among the thorns, which led to the construction of the sanctuary of Aránzazu. The name “Aránzazu” means “place of thorns” in Basque. a direct reference to the place where the apparition took place. Since then, this dedication has been a symbol of protection and protection for the faithful.
The legend of the Virgin of Aranzazu
The name Aránzazu has a rich history that It is linked to the miraculous apparition of the Virgin on Mount Aránzazu, located in the Basque Country. According to tradition, in 1468, A shepherd named Rodrigo de Balzategui discovered the image of the Virgin Mary in the middle of a thorny tree, surprising all the inhabitants of the area. By pronouncing the words “Arantzan zu?” which means “You among the thorns?” In Basque, the place was marked as sacred. From this miraculous discovery, the Virgin of Aránzazu became the patron saint of Gipuzkoa and the famous sanctuary of Aránzazu was built, one of the most important pilgrimage centers in Spain. The name, which evokes purity and devotion, is associated with the spiritual strength and protection that the Virgin has offered for centuries to her faithful.
In addition to the celebration of Virgin of Aránzazu, other saints are also commemorated on September 9 important in the Catholic tradition. Among them stand out Saint Peter Claverknown for his tireless work on behalf of African slaves in Cartagena de Indias in the 17th century, and Saint Gorgon of RomeChristian martyr persecuted under the Roman Empire. Both saints are examples of sacrifice and dedication in the service of those most in need, and their memory continues to be a source of inspiration for Catholics around the world.
Saint Mary of the Head
Another saint commemorated on September 9 is Saint María de la Cabeza, wife of Saint Isidro Labrador and recognized for her deep faith and piety. Born in Torrelaguna, Madrid, she is credited with a life of humility and devotion, dividing her time between prayer and caring for those most in need. Popular tradition attributes several miracles to her and her intercession is invoked, especially in times of drought, to ask for rain.
Saint Peter Claver
Saint Pedro Claver is one of the most important figures of the Latin American Church, particularly known for his humanitarian work with African slaves in Cartagena de Indias, Colombia. Born in Spain in 1580, he dedicated his life to the spiritual and physical care of slaves who arrived in America. in deplorable conditions. He baptized and helped thousands of Africans, fighting tirelessly for their rights and dignity at a time when slavery was a brutally widespread institution. His feast day, September 9, commemorates his work as a defender of the oppressed and an apostle of justice and peace.
Saint Gorgon of Rome
Saint Gorgon of Rome is another of the saints commemorated on this date. He was an officer of the Roman Empire who, after converting to Christianity, suffered martyrdom under the persecution of the Emperor Diocletian. His courage in not denying his faith, even under torture, made him a symbol of spiritual strength and resistance in the face of adversity. Saint Gorgon is an example of the sacrifice made by many Christians during the first centuries of Christianity, and his memory continues to be venerated in the Church.
Other saints celebrated on September 9
With those mentioned, This September 9, these other saints are also celebrated:
- Saint Gorgon of Rome
- Saint Ciarano of Clonmacnoise
- Blessed María de la Cabeza (12th century)
- Blessed George Douglas
- Blessed Maria Eutimia Üffing
- Blessed Peter Bonhomme
- Blessed Jacques Desiderius Laval
- Blessed Francisco Gárate Aranguren
- Virgin Our Lady of Health
