Regarding his learning: even as a youth in Tuscany, young St. Robert was devoted to studying Church History, the Fathers of the Church, and Scripture, He was ordained as a Jesuit priest in 1570, a time when the Church needed to address her teaching in light of rapidly spreading Protestant heresies.
St. Robert became a professor at what is now the Jesuit-run Gregorian University in Rome and his lectures there became the basis of his most famous work, his three-volume Disputationes de Controversiis Christianae Fidei adversus hujus temporis Haereticos—“Disputations Concerning the Controversies of the Christian Faith Against the Heretics of This Time” containing the lucid and uncompromising explanation of Catholic doctrine in light of errors of his day. He served as a theologian to the pope and published two important catechisms
Regarding his virtue: when he was made a Cardinal by Pope Clement VIII, St. Robert insisted on living a simple life rather than embracing the privileges he could have enjoyed. He abstained from luxurious meals, and gave away many of his possession to clothe the poor.
Bellarmine understood that if he were to combat the overwhelming heresies during the time of the Reformation, he would need to be guided by the powers above. It was for this reason that Bellarmine had an undying devotion to the Virgin Mary. Each Saturday the saint would fast in her honor, and devoted every morning to the recitation of the Office of the Blessed Virgin.
Pope Pius XI said that “Saint Robert Bellarmine is to be numbered among the greatest men in the history of the Church, whom God in His providence has endowed with exceptional learning and sanctity to teach the truths of the Catholic Faith and defend its integrity against the attacks of the heretics.”
Here was a man totally dedicated to Christ and His Church. He is an example of the wise man in the Gospel who built his life on the solid rock of the Gospel because of his desire for heaven and to help others get there, too.
St. Bellarmine wrote: “if you are wise, then know that you have been created for the glory of God and for your eternal salvation. This is your goal; this is the center of your life; this is the treasure of your heart. If you reach this goal, you will find happiness. If you fail to reach it, you will find misery.”
Through his intercession and that of Our Lady to whom he was so devoted, may we develop the learning and virtue God desires for us for the glory of God and the salvation of souls.
- - - - -
For the Church, that like St. Robert Bellarmine, we may be steadfast in defending and explaining our faith with clarity and conviction, and that theologians and teachers of the faith, may be blessed with wisdom and virtue as they guide others in understanding Catholic doctrine. Let us pray to the Lord.
For those in positions of authority, that they may follow St. Robert's example of humility and simplicity, using their roles to serve others rather than seeking privilege. Let us pray to the Lord.
For those struggling with doubts or questions about their faith, that they may find clarity and renewed commitment to Christ and His Church, and that all of us may build our lives on the solid rock of the Gospel. Let us pray to the Lord.
That the sick and the poor may know the compassion and charity of the Church and the closeness of God in their afflictions.
For the repose of the souls of our beloved dead, for all of the poor souls in purgatory, and for N. for whom this mass is offered.
Heavenly Father, we bring these petitions before You on this memorial of St. Robert Bellarmine. Through his intercessions grant us what we truly need to keep our hearts fixed on the glory of Your kingdom. Through Christ our Lord. Amen.
No comments:
Post a Comment