Saint Alexius intercedes before the Virgin for protection against earthquakes, Austria, 18th century, etching.

The kneeling saint holds up a prayer-sheet inscribed "Libera nos" - Free us!. In the background, an earthquake shakes down buildings resembling those on the Roman Forum. Lettering: "Der H. Alexius ein mächtiger Patron für Abwendung der Erdbeben." - Saint Alexius, a powerful patron saint for averting earthquakes.

Night Prayer - Scripture Reading for today

"Do not let resentment lead you into sin; the sunset must not find you still angry. Do not give the devil his opportunity." (Eph 4:26-27)

The Virgin Mary with the infant Jesus and angels above; below, Saint Louis of Toulouse, Saint Clare, Saint Francis, Saint John the Baptist, Saint Catherine of Alexandria, and Saint Alexius (kneels in the foreground on the right side of the picture, wearing a cloak and holding a walking stick). Drawing by F. Rosaspina, c. 1830, after Annibale Carracci.

We wish a happy birthday and good health to two members of the Irish Alexian community, Brother Luke and Brother Sean, who celebrate this special day in September, one day apart!

Saint Alexius, patron saint of pilgrims, the homeless, the Alexian Brothers, and an exemplary Christian. We come before you with gratitude, asking for your intercession during this relaxing weekend. Please accompany us so that we may find the physical and spiritual renewal we need. Help us to be filled with love and peace during the weekend, so that we may let go of the tensions of the week and find tranquility. Give us the strength to enjoy the beautiful moments and appreciate the company of our family and friends. Be with us so that the joy and peace we experience this weekend will accompany us throughout the coming week. Teach us that rest is also part of life and that we should always seek Your presence, which refreshes and strengthens us. Bless us with Your love and grace so that we may live happily on the weekend and in our daily lives. Amen.

Balthasar Stecher - Saint Alexius, copperplate engraving, circa 1690, Herzog August Library, Wolfenbüttel, Germany.

Evening prayer

Heavenly Father, at this evening hour we give thanks to You for this day, which we have received as a gift. We thank You for the moments we have experienced, both the joys and the challenges, which all shape our lives. We ask You to bless our loved ones and protect them from all harm and illness. Grant that our love and understanding may always be strong, and help us to stand by each other despite difficulties. Bless the world with peace and love. Help us to understand and accept one another, and to build a better future for all. Amen.