Saint Lucy

Francesco del Cossa Saint Lucy

Saint Lucy, by Francesco del Cossa (c. 1430–c. 1477). From Wikimedia.

Almighty God, who didst give to thy servant Lucy boldness to confess the Name of our Saviour Jesus Christ before the rulers of the world, and courage to die for this faith: Grant that we may always be ready to give . . . → Read More: Saint Lucy

On the Kalendar: Lucy, Sicilian Martyr

December from Les Petites Heures d'Anne de Bretagne

According to the 5th-century Acts of the Martyrs, a disappointed suitor denounced Lucy as a Christian, and she was executed in Syracuse, Sicily, in A.D. 304, during the Diocletian Persecution. She was born to noble parents, but her father died when she was five years ago, leaving her and her mother Eutychia without a guardian. . . . → Read More: On the Kalendar: Lucy, Sicilian Martyr

The Second Sunday in Advent

Advent Wreath Advent II

Blessed Lord, who hast caused all holy Scriptures to be written for our learning: Grant that we may in such wise hear them, read, mark, learn, and inwardly digest them, that by patience and comfort of thy holy Word, we may embrace, and ever hold fast, the blessed hope of everlasting life, which thou . . . → Read More: The Second Sunday in Advent

Saint Ambrose, Bishop of Milan and Doctor

Ambrose and Theodosius

Saint Ambrose barring Theodosius from Milan Cathedral, by Anthony van Dyck (1599–1641). From Wikipedia.

O God, who didst give to thy servant Ambrose grace eloquently to proclaim thy righteousness in the great congregation, and fearlessly to bear reproach for the honour of thy Name: Mercifully grant to all bishops and pastors such . . . → Read More: Saint Ambrose, Bishop of Milan and Doctor

Choral Evensong for Advent II

Rorate caeli manuscript illumination

Sunday, October 7th, 2018 at 6:00 PM

Evensong, a fusion of the monastic prayer offices Vespers and Compline, is one of the greatest treasures of the Anglican tradition. Presented by Saint Stephen’s Choir of Men & Boys on the First Sunday of the month, the service begins at 6:00 PM and ordinarily lasts about 40 . . . → Read More: Choral Evensong for Advent II

Saint Nicholas of Myra

Ilja Repin Saint Nicholas of Myra saves three innocents from death

Saint Nicholas of Myra saves three innocents from death by Ilja Repin (1844–1930).

Almighty God, who in thy love didst give to thy servant Nicholas of Myra a perpetual name for deeds of kindness both on land and seas: Grant, we pray thee, that thy Church may never cease to work for the . . . → Read More: Saint Nicholas of Myra

Saint John of Damascus

St John of Damascus with his foster brother St Kosmas

St John of Damascus with his foster brother St Kosmas

Confirm our minds, O Lord, in the mysteries of the true faith, set forth with power by thy servant John of Damascus; that we, with him, confessing Jesus to be true God and true Man, and singing the praises of the risen Lord, . . . → Read More: Saint John of Damascus

Saint Clement of Alexandria

Martyrdom of St Clement

Martyrdom of St Clement, by Bernardino Fungai (1460–1516).

O God, who hast enlightened thy Church by the teaching of thy servant Clement of Alexandria: Enrich it evermore, we beseech thee, with thy heavenly grace, and raise up faithful witnesses, who by their life and doctrine may set forth to all men the truth . . . → Read More: Saint Clement of Alexandria

Saint Birinus

Celtic Cross

We beseech thee, O Lord, to pour thy grace on all who go to other lands, publishing the Word of salvation: That, following the patient labours of Saint Birinus, who brought to us the Gospel from beyond the sea, they may gather many believers into the fold of thy holy Church; through the merits . . . → Read More: Saint Birinus

On the Kalendar: Nicholas Ferrar, Deacon, Founder of the Little Gidding Community

December from Les Petites Heures d'Anne de Bretagne

Nicholas Ferrar was born in London in 1592. He took his BA at Clare Hall, Cambridge, in 1610, and obtained a position in the retinue of Princess Elizabeth, daughter of James I and wife of the Elector Frederick V. He travelled abroad with the Princess, but quickly set off on his own, visiting most of . . . → Read More: On the Kalendar: Nicholas Ferrar, Deacon, Founder of the Little Gidding Community