Which saints are celebrated today, Tuesday October 15, 2024? Every day, the Catholic Church commemorates the lives of the saints and blessed who have left an indelible mark in the history of the faith. Today, Tuesday October 15, 2024, is no exception, and the most significant celebration is that of Saint Teresa of Avilaone of the most important figures in Christianity and recognized as a Doctor of the Church. In addition, this day also honors the memory of Nagasaki Cakea martyr who gave her life for her faith amid religious persecution in Japan. Both saints represent examples of strength, spirituality and devotion, and their stories continue to be a source of inspiration for millions of followers around the world.
The name Therese It is particularly popular in many countries and has deep and relevant meaning. According to data from National Institute of Statistics (INE)In In Spain, 104,918 women have this namewhich reflects its great acceptance and affection among the population. Teresa is a name of Greek origin meaning “harvester” or “summer”. This name is associated not only with the figure of Saint Teresa of Ávila, but also with a tradition of strong and dedicated women who left their mark on history. The influence of Saint Thérèse has kept its name current and appreciated over the centuries. In addition to Thérèse, today we also celebrate Madeleine of Nagasaki, a lesser known but equally important saint. Now let’s know the history of these two saints and also, we will list the rest of the saints who are celebrated on this day.
Saint Teresa of Avila
Saint Teresa of Ávila, born Teresa de Cepeda y Ahumada in 1515, is one of the most emblematic figures of Catholicism. Teresa was a mystic, reformer and writer who dedicated her life to the reform of the Order of Carmel.founding numerous convents and advocating a more austere and contemplative religious life. His writings, such as “The Book of Life,” “The Path to Perfection,” and “The Mansions,” are considered masterpieces of spiritual literature and have profoundly influenced mystical theology.
Teresa of Avila was proclaimed Doctor of the Church in 1970 by Pope Paul VI.being the first woman to receive this title. His figure is remembered not only for his contributions to spirituality, but also for his strong character, his keen intelligence and his ability to overcome personal and institutional adversities. Thérèse was a woman ahead of her time, who fought against criticism and resistance within the Church to follow her spiritual calling.
The popularity of Saint Thérèse has kept her name alive throughout the centuries.. The meaning of the name Teresa, associated with the harvest and the heat of summer, embodies the figure of a hardworking, warm woman with a rich inner life. It is a name that symbolizes effort, dedication and the search for spiritual purpose. Women with this name are generally considered to be strong and dedicated people with great leadership abilities, characteristics that undoubtedly reflect the legacy of Saint Teresa.
Nagasaki Cake
Madeleine of Nagasaki was born into a Christian family in 17th century Japan. a period during which Christianity was brutally persecuted. From a young age she showed a fervent desire to serve God, and after the death of her parents she became an Augustinian catechist and tertiary, helping missionaries and the Christian community that lived underground. Magdalena stood out for her deep spirituality and commitment to faith, even in a context of constant danger.
In 1634, when the authorities intensified the persecution against Christians, Magdalena was captured and subjected to cruel torture. Despite the suffering, he remained firm in his faith and refused to renounce Christ. She was eventually executed using the “ana-tsurushi” method, a form of reverse crucifixion, thus becoming a martyr. His courage and testimony of faith are remembered as an example of perseverance in times of trial. Madeleine of Nagasaki was canonized in 1987 by Pope John Paul II along with other Japanese martyrs, recognized for her strength and total dedication to her belief.
The celebration of Saint Teresa of Avila and Magdalene of Nagasaki on the same day highlights the value of faith in very different contexts. Saint Teresa, from the safety of Carmelite convents, and Magdalena, in the midst of persecution and clandestinity, show that devotion and love for God can be expressed in multiple ways. The two saints inspire the faithful to live with courage, spirituality and unwavering dedication, remembering that faith transcends all barriers and challenges.
Other saints celebrated on October 15:
Alongside those mentioned, On this day, these other saints are also celebrated:
- Saint Barses of Edessa
- Saint Severus of Trier
- Holy Thecla of Kitzingen
- Blessed Gonzalo of Lagos
- Blessed Narcissus Basté Basté
