Connecting St. Martin's Day and Veteran's Day
St. Martin's Day
St. Martin, a Christian Roman soldier in the 4th century stationed in France, shifted from military service to promoting peace, becoming a bishop. He died on November 8, 397. His feast day on November 11 celebrates his life as a patron saint of soldiers.
St. Martin of Tours, a prominent figure in the early days of Christianity, was renowned for his kindness, modesty, and unwavering devotion to his religious beliefs. He was born about 316 AD in Pannonia (modern-day Hungary) to a Roman officer and was enlisted in the Roman army while still young. Despite his military background, he was strongly drawn to Christianity and underwent baptism at the age of 23.
One of the most well-known anecdotes about St. Martin involves his compassionate gesture towards a beggar. During his time in Amiens, France, he encountered a beggar shivering in the cold. Martin divided his military cloak in half to share it with the man. That evening, he had a dream of Jesus wearing the half-cloak, reinforcing his dedication to his faith.
Martin’s dedication to his faith led him to seek discharge from the military, but he was accused of cowardice. In response, he offered to stand unarmed in the front lines, trusting in God’s protection. This act of courage and faith further solidified his reputation1. After leaving the army, Martin continued to serve as a model of Christian virtue, eventually becoming the Bishop of Tours and dedicating his life to helping others.
His life story, marked by acts of kindness, bravery, and a strong commitment to his faith, made him an ideal patron for soldiers, symbolizing both the physical and spiritual battles they face.
Veteran's Day
World War I ended on November 11, 1918, with an armistice signing with Germany for an immediate ceasefire, marking a new chapter in Europe for peace.
In 1938, the yearly anniversary was ratified as a legal holiday, known as 'Armistice Day,' honoring World War I veterans. By 1954, it expanded to include all veterans, becoming "Veterans Day."
Interestingly, Veterans Day, honoring soldiers, is the same day as the Memorial of St. Martin of Tours, the patron saint of soldiers. Germany surrendering on a day that commemorates a saint who chose peace over war may appear coincidental, but the timing of the armistice was intentional -- set for the eleventh hour of the eleventh day of the eleventh month.
Could St. Martin have played a role in ending World War I? Or was it merely chance? Only heaven knows.
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READINGS FOR THIS WEEKEND’S MASSES
VIRTUALLY SUNDAY REFLECTION
Have you ever reflected upon what you hold back from God? It is important to give fully to God. True generosity comes from our poverty and our willingness to hold nothing back, much like Jesus' ultimate sacrifice. Join Fr. Tim as he reflects on this weekend's scripture readings.
FAMILIES
WEEKLY BULLETIN
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PARISH LYCEUM
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ANNOUNCEMENTS
ONGOING EVENTS
Ruby and Res
The weather may have turned chilly but good friends keep you warm.
