Monday, December 21, 1998
Monday December 21:
Final Monday of Late Advent and
Optional Memorial of Saint Peter Canisius, priest and Doctor of the Church Violet vestments
First Reading: Song of Songs 2: 8-14
Psalms: Psalm 33: 2-3, 11-12, 20-21
Gospel Reading: Luke 1: 39-45
Feast of Saint Peter Canisius, priest and Doctor of the Church
This Dutch-born Jesuit priest played a key role in the landmark Council of Trent and played a vital role in debating the Protestant heresies throughout Europe, especially in his native Netherlands and Germany, Austria, Bohemia and Poland. He was a great eloquent preacher sought by prince and pauper alike. He served as mediator between Holy Roman Emperors and Popes. He also founded the University of Fribourg in 1580. One of his most famous works was "Manuel of Catholics" and is referred to as the "Second Apostle of Germany," giving way to the great Saint Boniface as the "First Apostle of Germany." Because of Peter's efforts, the counter-reformation was a resounding success in Bavaria. In 1591 he suffered a stroke which hindered his speaking engagements, but he continued his writings with the help of a scribe as he dictated to him. Six years later, at the age of 76 this noble man died at Fribourg. Pope Pius XI canonized him in 1925, at the same time declaring him a distinguished Doctor of the Church.
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