On January 31, Franciscans remember Blessed Ludovica (Louise) Albertoni (1473-1533), renowned for her works of charity and deep mystical union with God.
On January 30, Franciscans honor the memory of St. Hyacintha Mariscotti (1585-1640), a nun of the Franciscan Third Order Regular. Hyacintha’s life illustrates that conversion to deep, authentic Gospel values at times takes twists and turns.
Who cares for and hears the prayers of the nameless caregivers, the people who toil without recognition, adequate pay, or impressive job titles to provide loving, attentive care to the ill and homebound? Mark Winiarski suggests that Margaret of Cortona is a worthy candidate to be the patron saint of these healthcare workers.
On January 16, Franciscans celebrate the feast of St. Berard and four friar companions, the first martyrs of the Order, who were beheaded in Morocco on this date in 1220.
On January 14, Franciscans honor the memory of Blessed Odoric of Pordenone (c. 1286–1331), one of the most prominent missionaries of the later Middle Ages.
His Holiness Pope Leo XIV has proclaimed a special Jubilee Year in commemoration of the Eighth Centenary of the passage of St. Francis of Assisi from death to eternal life.
On January 11, Franciscans honor the memory of Saint Thomas of Cori (1655–1729), a Franciscan who is not well known outside the region of Rome; he was canonized only in 1999.
