Which saints are celebrated today, Thursday October 3, 2024? THE Catholic Church On this day, we celebrate several saints whose lives and works have marked the history of the world. Christianity. The commemoration of saints is a tradition deeply rooted in the Church, which seeks to remember and honor those who, through their faith and virtues, have become models of life for believers. Each day of the liturgical calendar is dedicated to various personalities who have distinguished themselves by their service to God and humanity, and October 3 is no exception. This day, in particular, invites us to reflect on the lives of three great saints: Saint Francis of Borja, Saint Dionysius the Areopagite and Saint Candida of Rome.
The importance of commemorating saints lies in their ability to inspire the faithful on their spiritual path. These figures not only lived according to Christian principles, but also contributed significantly to the strengthening of the faith in different historical and cultural contexts. Saint Francis of Borgia, Saint Dionysius the Areopagite and Saint Candida of Rome They are clear examples of this unconditional dedication to divine service, each with their own story, challenges and achievements. Through the celebration of these saints, the Church not only remembers their merits, but also invites the faithful to follow their example, keeping alive the values they embodied. Now let’s get to know the lives of these three saints who stand out today, and we will also list the rest of the saints of this day.
Saint Francis of Borja
Saint Francis of Borja, born in 1510 in Gandía, Spain, He is known for his transformation from noble courtier to devout Jesuit priest.. Belonging to one of the most illustrious families of his time, the Borgias, Francisco enjoyed a comfortable and prestigious life at the court of Emperor Charles V. However, after the death of his wife and meditation on the fragility of earthly life, he decides to abandon the world of the nobles and embrace religious life. In 1551, he entered the Society of Jesus, where his piety and humility were immediately distinguished, and was subsequently elected third Superior General of the order.
St. Francis of Borja is remembered not only for his spiritual fervor, but also for his important contributions tothe growth and consolidation of the Society of Jesus. Under his leadership, the order grew considerably, both in Europe and the Americas, fostering the creation of colleges and missions.
Areopagite of Saint Denys
Areopagite of Saint Denysknown for being one of the first converts by Saint Paul in Athens, is a key figure in the early history of Christianity. According to the Acts of the Apostles (17.34), Dionysus was converted by Saint Paul during his famous speech at the Areopagus, the Council of Athens. Dionysius not only embraced the Christian faith, but he also became Bishop of Athens and worked tirelessly to spread the Gospel against a backdrop of strong paganism and Greek philosophy. His mission was crucial for the establishment of the Christian faith in a region where polytheistic beliefs predominated.
Over the centuries, The figure of Saint Dionysius the Areopagite is enveloped in an aura of mystery, notably thanks to the theological works attributed to his name. However, what stands out in his life is his courage to embrace a new and revolutionary faith in an environment that in many cases was hostile to Christianity.
Saint Candida of Rome
Saint Candida of Rome was a 3rd century Christian martyrrevered for her courageous testimony of faith in times of persecution. Although details of her life are not abundant, it is known that she was one of many women who gave their lives for refusing to renounce Christ during World War II. persecutions of Emperor Diocletian. At a time when professing the Christian faith meant facing torture and death, Candida would rather suffer martyrdom than renounce her belief in Jesus Christ. His example is a powerful reminder of the courage and determination that characterized the early Christians.
Other saints celebrated on October 3
With the three saints mentioned, On this day, the saints that we will list below are also celebrated:
- Saint Virila, monk.
- Saints Faustus, Gaius, Peter, Paul, Eusebius, Cherimon and Lucius of Alexandria, martyrs and confessors.
- Saint Hesychius of Palestine, monk.
- Saint Maximian of Bagai, bishop and confessor.
- Saint Cyprian of Toulon, bishop.
- Saints Ewaldo the Black and Ewaldo the White, priests and martyrs.
- Saint Viril of Navarre, abbot.
- Saint Gerard of Namur, abbot.
- Blessed Otto of Metten, abbot.
- Blessed Adelgoto of Chur, bishop.
- Blessed Ambrosio Francisco Ferro and his fellow martyrs.
- Blessed Crescencio García Pobo, priest and martyr.
- Blessed Jesús Emilio Jaramillo Monsalve, bishop and martyr.
