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Dio Wheeling-CharlestonMay 20th is the memorial of St. Bernadine of Siena – a 15th Century Franciscan, called “the Apostle of the Holy Name of Jesus.”
His wisdom shared in his sermons still reminds us that, “Whenever divine grace selects someone to receive a particular grace or some especially favoured position, all the gifts (needed for it) are given to the person (by God) abundantly.”
It was St. Bernadine who created the IHS monogram (the Greek initials of Jesus) and in turn also began the devotion to the Most Holy Name of Jesus.
It was his Aunt Diana who was his great witness of faith, taught him to praise God always, and be devoted to honor the Blessed Mother. She actually raised him. His parents died, leaving him orphaned at the age of seven.
As a boy he would build pretend altars and pretend to be a priest giving sermons and celebrating Mass. He was selfless turning to prayer, fasting, and helping others.
When his aunt died, he prayed to God to clearly guide him in his vocation – within two years he joined the Franciscans. During his first 12 years with the missionaries, he wasn’t able to do much preaching because an ailment left barely a voice – it was weak and hoarse. So, he spoke through his actions.
He never backed down from a missionary and evangelization assignment, and when he was given the important task to travel to Milan, Italy to convert souls, he asked God to give him a voice strong and bold. God did.
His preaching drew crowds from all over. Stores would close so shop owners, workers, and customers could listen to him. Pope Pius II called him the “second St. Paul”.
Vatican records note that at the end of his sermons he would always leave the people with a message of Jesus’ mercy and Mary’s great love, telling them never to forget the power in the name of Jesus.
Faithful Catholics around the world reverently bow their heads during Mass when the name of Jesus is said.
Call upon St. Bernadine’s intercession:
Saint Bernardine of Siena, words were very important to you. You used your gifts to share words of Jesus’ mercy and forgiveness and to praise his Holy Name. Pray for us that we may always choose to speak Jesus’ name with reverence and to use our words to promote peace and love rather than discord. Amen.Editor’s Note: the painting of St. Bernadine of Siena is by Julie Lonneman and available at Trinity Stores https://trinitystores.com
