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.