As this special day approaches, we wish Brother Luke and Brother Sean a happy birthday, good health, and much continued joy in their ministry.

J.W. Baumgartner - Saint Alexius as the patron saint against earthquakes, colored engraving, mid-18th century.

An Alexian brother, a color woodcut based on an illustration by M. Jacques Charles Bar, from Tiron Abbot’s book "Histoire et Costumes des Ordres Religieux" (History and Costumes of Religious Orders), a volume of over 600 pages, published by Librairie Historique-Artistique, Brussels, 1845. The publication presents the official vestments of a total of 80 religious orders (both male and female).

Our Lady of Knock, as we begin this new month of September, we place the days ahead into your gentle care. With the arrival of fall, when the leaves begin to change and the earth quietly prepares for a new season, remind us that every season of life has its own beauty, purpose, and grace. Watch over the village of Knock in Ireland, this blessed place where you appeared in 1879, and especially over the four-member Alexian community who live and serve there today. Strengthen them in their vocation, bless their community with unity and peace, and give them courage to continue their mission of bringing Christ’s compassion to those who are sick, poor, or in need. Our Lady of Knock, accompany the Alexian Brothers in Ireland and throughout the world, protect our communities, our families, and all those entrusted to our prayers. May September be a month of renewed hope, quiet strength, and faithful service, and may we learn from you to carry God’s presence into the ordinary moments of each day. Our Lady of Knock, pray for us, lead us closer to your Son and help us to live with generous hearts, trusting that God is with us in every season. Amen.

Saint Alexius, the patron saint against earthquakes, 18th century, copperplate engraving, Austria

The kneeling saint holds a prayer card in his hand bearing the inscription “Libera nos” — Deliver us!. In the background is a landscape reminiscent of ancient Rome, destroyed by an earthquake. At the bottom of the image is the inscription “Der H. Alexius ein mächtiger Patron für Abwendung der Erdbeben” — Saint Alexius, the patron saint who protects against earthquakes.

Bronze statues of Irish Saint (Saint Brendan, Saint Patrick and Saint Kevin) by Timothy Schmalz are located next to the Knock basilica.

 

Prayer for Vocations

Saint Alexius, we ask you to hear our prayers and intercede for us for vocations in the Alexian communities throughout the world. Help those who are seeking God’s call to find their place in religious life and to follow Jesus Christ in a worthy manner. Help them find the strength and dedication to serve the Church and their fellow human beings faithfully. Amen.