Explore the holy relics of saints and sacred objects at St. Anthony of Padua in The Woodlands, TX. Learn their history and veneration in the Catholic faith. Chapel and Relics What are Relics? A relic is an object that is considered holy or sacred because it is associated with a saint or a significant event in the life of Jesus or the early Church. The term “relics of the Saints” primarily refers to the bodies or notable parts of the bodies of the Saints who, as distinguished members of Christ’s mystical Body and as Temples of the Holy Spirit, now dwell in Heaven but once lived on earth. Objects that belonged to the Saints, such as personal items, clothing, and manuscripts, are also considered relics, as well as objects that have touched their bodies or tombs, such as oils, cloths, and images. Open Hours Relic Information Relic Listing Upcoming Venerations Open Hours Monthly Feast Days Relic Information Upcoming Venerations Open Hours Relic Information Relic Listing Upcoming Venerations Saints in our Reliquary Wood of the True Cross 1st Century September 14 Main Reliquary - Center Section More Information Veil of the Blessed Virgin Mary 1st Century January 1 Main Reliquary - Center Section More Information From the Tomb of Mary 1st Century August 15 Main Church - Near Mary Statue More Information Holy Innocents 1st Century December 28 Back Left Reliquary - Left Section More Information St. Agatha 231-251 February 5 Main Reliquary - Right Section More Information St. Agnes 291-304 January 21 Main Reliquary - Right Section More Information St. Alexander Sauli 1533-1592 October 11 Back Right Reliquary - Right Section More Information St. Aloysius Gonzaga 1568-1591 June 21 Back Right Reliquary - Left Section More Information St. Alphonsus Liguori 1696-1787 August 1 Back Right Reliquary - Right Section More Information St. Ambrose 340-397 December 7 Main Reliquary - Right Section More Information St. Anastasia of Sirmium 281-304 December 25 Main Reliquary - Right Section More Information St. Andrew Avellino 1521-1608 November 10 Back Right Reliquary - Center Section More Information St. Andrew Kim Taegon 1821-1846 September 20 Back Left Reliquary - Center Section More Information St. Andrew the Apostle 1st Century November 30 Main Reliquary - Center Section More Information St. André Bessette 1845-1937 January 6 Back Left Reliquary - Right Section More Information St. Angela Merici 1474-1540 January 27 Back Right Reliquary - Center Section More Information St. Anrê Nguyễn Kim Thông 1790-1855 November 1 Back Left Reliquary - Center Section More Information St. Anselm of Canterbury 1033-1109 April 21 Back Right Reliquary - Right Section More Information St. Anthony of Padua 1195-1231 June 13 Main Church - Near St. Anthony Statue More Information St. Anthony of the Desert 250-356 January 17 Back Right Reliquary - Left Section More Information St. Athanasius 296-373 May 2 Main Reliquary - Right Section More Information St. Auguste Chapdelaine 1814-1856 February 27 Back Left Reliquary - Center Section More Information St. Augustin Schoeffler 1822-1851 May 1 Back Left Reliquary - Center Section More Information St. Augustine 354-430 August 28 Main Reliquary - Right Section More Information St. Aurelia c. 300 September 25 Back Left Reliquary - Left Section More Information St. Bartholomew the Apostle 1st Century August 24 Main Reliquary - Center Section More Information St. Basil the Great 330-379 January 2 Main Reliquary - Right Section More Information St. Benedict Joseph Labre 1748-1783 April 16 Back Right Reliquary - Left Section More Information St. Benedict of Nursia 480-547 July 11 Back Right Reliquary - Left Section More Information St. Benedict the Moor 1526-1589 April 4 Back Right Reliquary - Left Section More Information St. Bernadette Soubirous 1844-1879 April 16 Back Left Reliquary - Right Section More Information St. Bernard of Clairvaux 1090-1153 August 20 Back Right Reliquary - Right Section More Information St. Bernardine of Siena 1380-1444 May 20 Back Right Reliquary - Left Section More Information St. Blaise c. 280-316 February 3 Back Left Reliquary - Left Section More Information St. Bonaventure 1221-1274 July 15 Back Right Reliquary - Right Section More Information St. Bridget of Sweden 1303-1373 July 23 Back Left Reliquary - Center Section More Information St. Caesarius of Arles 470-543 August 27 Back Right Reliquary - Right Section More Information St. Camillus of Lellis 1550-1614 July 14 Back Right Reliquary - Center Section More Information St. Carlo Acutis 1991-2006 October 12 Back Left Reliquary - Right Section More Information St. Catherine Labouré 1806-1876 November 28 Back Left Reliquary - Right Section More Information St. Catherine of Alexandria 287-310 November 25 Back Left Reliquary - Left Section More Information St. Catherine of Bologna 1413-1463 March 9 Back Right Reliquary - Left Section More Information St. Catherine of Siena 1347-1380 April 29 Back Right Reliquary - Right Section More Information St. Cecilia 180-230 November 22 Main Reliquary - Right Section More Information St. Charles Borromeo 1538-1584 November 4 Back Right Reliquary - Right Section More Information St. Charles Lwanga 1860-1886 June 3 Back Left Reliquary - Center Section More Information St. Christopher c. 220-251 July 25 Back Left Reliquary - Left Section More Information St. Clare of Assisi 1194-1253 August 11 Back Right Reliquary - Left Section More Information St. Clement of Rome d. 97 November 23 Back Left Reliquary - Center Section More Information St. Columba d. 853 September 17 Back Left Reliquary - Center Section More Information St. Cunibert of Cologne 600-663 November 12 Back Right Reliquary - Right Section More Information St. Damien of Molokai 1840-1889 May 10 Back Left Reliquary - Right Section More Information St. Denis of Paris d.c. 250 October 9 Back Left Reliquary - Left Section More Information St. Deodatus of Antioch 1st Century January 28 Back Left Reliquary - Left Section More Information St. Desiderius of Langres d. 407 May 23 Back Left Reliquary - Left Section More Information St. Dominic 1170-1221 August 8 Back Right Reliquary - Center Section More Information St. Edith Stein 1891-1942 August 9 Back Left Reliquary - Center Section More Information St. Edward the Confessor 1003-1066 October 13 Back Left Reliquary - Center Section More Information St. Elizabeth 1st Century November 5 Main Reliquary - Left Section More Information St. Elizabeth Ann Seton 1774-1821 January 4 Back Right Reliquary - Center Section More Information St. Elizabeth of Hungary 1207-1231 November 17 Back Left Reliquary - Center Section More Information St. Ephrem the Syrian 306-373 June 9 Main Reliquary - Right Section More Information St. Faustus of Córdova d. 304 October 13 Back Left Reliquary - Left Section More Information St. Felicity d. 203 March 7 Main Reliquary - Left Section More Information St. Fortunatus d. 286 October 16 Back Left Reliquary - Left Section More Information St. Frances Xavier Cabrini 1850-1917 November 13 Back Left Reliquary - Right Section More Information St. Frances of Rome 1384-1440 March 9 Back Right Reliquary - Center Section More Information St. Francis Borgia 1510-1572 October 10 Back Right Reliquary - Left Section More Information St. Francis Caracciolo 1563-1608 June 4 Back Right Reliquary - Center Section More Information St. Francis de Sales 1567-1622 January 24 Back Right Reliquary - Center Section More Information St. Francis of Assisi 1181-1226 October 4 Back Right Reliquary - Left Section More Information St. Francisco Marto 1908-1919 February 20 Back Left Reliquary - Right Section More Information St. Gabriel of Our Lady of Sorrows 1838-1862 February 27 Back Left Reliquary - Right Section More Information St. Gemma Galgani 1878-1903 April 11 Back Left Reliquary - Right Section More Information St. George 280-303 April 23 Back Left Reliquary - Left Section More Information St. Germain Cousin 1579-1601 June 15 Back Right Reliquary - Center Section More Information St. Gertrude the Great 1256-1302 November 16 Back Right Reliquary - Left Section More Information St. Gianna Beretta Molla 1922-1962 April 28 Back Left Reliquary - Right Section More Information St. Guiseppe Moscati 1880-1927 November 16 Back Left Reliquary - Right Section More Information St. Helen 248-330 August 18 Back Left Reliquary - Center Section More Information St. Hilary of Poitiers c. 310-368 January 13 Main Reliquary - Right Section More Information St. Ignatius Loyola 1491-1556 July 31 Back Right Reliquary - Left Section More Information St. Illuminatus 3rd-4th Century No Assigned Date Back Left Reliquary - Left Section More Information St. James the Greater Apostle d. 44 July 25 Main Reliquary - Center Section More Information St. James the Lesser Apostle 1st Century May 3 Main Reliquary - Center Section More Information St. Jane Frances de Chantal 1572-1641 August 12 Back Right Reliquary - Center Section More Information St. Jerome 342-420 September 30 Back Right Reliquary - Right Section More Information St. Joan of Arc 1412-1431 May 30 Back Left Reliquary - Left Section More Information St. John Berchmans 1599-1621 August 13 Back Right Reliquary - Left Section More Information St. John Bosco 1815-1888 January 31 Back Left Reliquary - Right Section More Information St. John Brito 1647-1693 February 4 Back Right Reliquary - Right Section More Information St. John Damascene 675-749 December 4 Back Right Reliquary - Right Section More Information St. John Francis Regis 1597-1640 June 16 Back Right Reliquary - Left Section More Information St. John Neumann 1811-1860 January 5 Back Right Reliquary - Right Section More Information St. John Paul II 1920-2005 October 22 Back Left Reliquary - Center Section More Information St. John XXIII 1881-1963 October 11 Back Left Reliquary - Center Section More Information St. John the Baptist 1st Century June 24 Main Reliquary - Left Section More Information St. John the Beloved Apostle 1st Century December 27 Main Reliquary - Center Section More Information St. Josemaría Escrivá 1902-1975 June 26 Back Left Reliquary - Right Section More Information St. Joseph 1st Century March 19 Main Reliquary - Center Section More Information St. Joseph of Cupertino 1603-1663 September 18 Back Right Reliquary - Left Section More Information St. Jucundus d.c. 250 January 9 Back Left Reliquary - Left Section More Information St. Jude Thaddeus the Apostle 1st Century October 28 Main Reliquary - Center Section More Information St. Julia 5th Century May 22 Back Left Reliquary - Center Section More Information St. Julian of Le Mans 3rd Century January 27 Back Right Reliquary - Right Section More Information St. Justin 100-165 June 1 Main Reliquary - Left Section More Information St. Katharine Drexel 1858-1955 March 3 Back Left Reliquary - Right Section More Information St. Lawrence 225-258 August 10 Main Reliquary - Left Section More Information St. Lawrence of Brindisi 1559-1619 July 21 Back Right Reliquary - Right Section More Information St. Leonard of Port Maurice 1676-1751 November 26 Back Right Reliquary - Left Section More Information St. Louis de Montefort 1673-1716 April 28 Back Left Reliquary - Right Section More Information St. Louise de Marillac 1591-1660 March 15 Back Right Reliquary - Center Section More Information St. Lucianus of Beauvais d.c. 290 January 8 Back Left Reliquary - Left Section More Information St. Lucy of Syracuse 283-304 December 13 Main Reliquary - Right Section More Information St. Luke the Evangelist 1st Century October 18 Main Reliquary - Left Section More Information St. Marcellin Champagnat 1789-1840 June 6 Back Right Reliquary - Center Section More Information St. Margaret Mary Alacoque 1647-1690 October 16 Back Right Reliquary - Right Section More Information St. Margaret of Antioch 289-304 July 20 Back Left Reliquary - Left Section More Information St. Margaret of Castello 1287-1320 April 13 Back Right Reliquary - Center Section More Information St. Marguerite d'Youville 1701-1777 April 11 Back Right Reliquary - Center Section More Information St. Maria Goretti 1890-1902 July 6 Back Left Reliquary - Center Section More Information St. Marianne Cope 1838-1918 January 23 Back Left Reliquary - Right Section More Information St. Mark the Evangelist 1st Century April 25 Main Reliquary - Left Section More Information St. Martha 1st Century July 29 Main Reliquary - Left Section More Information St. Martin de Porres 1579-1639 November 3 Back Right Reliquary - Center Section More Information St. Martin of Tours 316-397 November 11 Back Right Reliquary - Right Section More Information St. Mary Magdalene 1st Century July 22 Main Reliquary - Center Section More Information St. Matthew the Apostle 1st Century September 21 Main Reliquary - Center Section More Information St. Matthias the Apostle 1st Century May 14 Main Reliquary - Center Section More Information St. Maximilian Kolbe 1894-1941 August 14 Back Left Reliquary - Left Section More Information St. Michael the Archangel (stone) Apparition in 492 September 29 Back Left Reliquary - Left Section More Information St. Monica 332-387 August 27 Main Reliquary - Right Section More Information St. Nicholas of Myra 270-350 December 6 Back Right Reliquary - Right Section More Information St. Olcese 4th - 5th Century January 22 Back Right Reliquary - Right Section More Information St. Padre Pio 1887-1968 September 23 Back Left Reliquary - Right Section More Information St. Papias of Hierapolis 60-130 February 22 Back Left Reliquary - Left Section More Information St. Paul of the Cross 1694-1775 October 20 Back Left Reliquary - Right Section More Information St. Peregrine Laziosi 1260-1345 May 1 Back Right Reliquary - Left Section More Information St. Perpetua d. 203 March 7 Main Reliquary - Left Section More Information St. Peter Canisius 1521-1597 December 21 Back Right Reliquary - Right Section More Information St. Peter Julian Eymard 1811-1868 August 2 Back Left Reliquary - Right Section More Information St. Peter of Alcántara 1499-1562 October 19 Back Right Reliquary - Left Section More Information St. Peter of Verona 1205-1252 April 29 Back Left Reliquary - Center Section More Information St. Peter the Apostle 1st Century June 29 Main Reliquary - Center Section More Information St. Philip Benizi 1233-1285 August 23 Back Right Reliquary - Left Section More Information St. Philip Neri 1515-1595 May 26 Back Right Reliquary - Center Section More Information St. Philip the Apostle 1st Century May 3 Main Reliquary - Center Section More Information St. Pier Giorgio Frassati 1901-1925 July 4 Back Left Reliquary - Right Section More Information St. Pius X 1835-1914 August 21 Back Left Reliquary - Center Section More Information St. Raymond of Peñafort 1175-1275 January 7 Back Right Reliquary - Center Section More Information St. Renatus of Angers 5th Century November 12 Back Right Reliquary - Right Section More Information St. Rita of Cascia 1381-1457 May 22 Back Right Reliquary - Center Section More Information St. Rocco (Roch) 1295-1378 August 16 Back Right Reliquary - Left Section More Information St. Rose of Lima 1586-1617 August 23 Back Right Reliquary - Center Section More Information St. Rose of Viterbo 1234-1252 September 4 Back Right Reliquary - Left Section More Information St. Sebastian c. 255 - 288 January 20 Main Reliquary - Left Section More Information St. Severin of Cologne 4th Century October 23 Back Right Reliquary - Right Section More Information St. Simon the Apostle 1st Century October 28 Main Reliquary - Center Section More Information St. Stephen the Protomartyr d. 34 December 26 Main Reliquary - Left Section More Information St. Symeon the Stylite 390-459 July 27 Back Right Reliquary - Left Section More Information St. Teresa Margaret of the Sacred Heart 1747-1770 September 1 Back Right Reliquary - Right Section More Information St. Teresa of Calcutta 1910-1997 September 5 Back Left Reliquary - Right Section More Information St. Teresa of Ávila 1515-1582 October 15 Back Right Reliquary - Right Section More Information St. Thomas Aquinas 1225-1274 January 28 Back Right Reliquary - Center Section More Information St. Thomas the Apostle 1st Century July 3 Main Reliquary - Center Section More Information St. Thérèse Couderc 1805-1885 September 26 Back Left Reliquary - Right Section More Information St. Thérèse of Lisieux 1873-1897 October 1 Back Right Reliquary - Right Section More Information St. Timothy 1st Century January 26 Main Reliquary - Left Section More Information St. Titus Brandsma 1881-1942 July 27 Back Left Reliquary - Center Section More Information St. Tranquilus 3rd - 4th Century July 6 Back Left Reliquary - Left Section More Information St. Verecundus d.c. 522 October 22 Back Left Reliquary - Left Section More Information St. Victor d. 250 March 10 Back Left Reliquary - Left Section More Information St. Victoria d.c. 304 December 23 Back Left Reliquary - Left Section More Information St. Vincent Ferrer 1350-1419 April 5 Back Right Reliquary - Center Section More Information St. Vincent de Paul 1581-1660 September 27 Back Right Reliquary - Center Section More Information St. Vitalis d. 287 September 22 Back Left Reliquary - Left Section More Information Sts. Louis & Marie-Azélie Guérin Martin 1823-1894 ; 1831-1877 July 12 Back Left Reliquary - Right Section More Information The Martyrs of Gorkum d. 1572 July 9 Back Left Reliquary - Center Section More Information The Seven Founders of the Servite Order 1233 February 17 Back Right Reliquary - Left Section More Information

Deepen your faith at St. Anthony of Padua in The Woodlands, TX. Bible studies, retreats, devotions, and adult formation opportunities for all ages. Filter by Category Select Category Grow in your Faith Are you looking to deepen your faith? There are plenty of opportunities for adults to get involved at our parish. We have Bible Studies, Community Groups, Prayer and Devotions, Classes, Retreats, Organizations, and Groups in Spanish. I Want to Volunteer Contact Us Bible Study Class Community Group All Categories Devotion Organization Retreat BIBLE STUDY CLASS COMMUNITY GROUP DEVOTION ORGANIZATION RETREAT ACTS Retreats Various Times English & Spanish Retreat ACTS is a Parish Weekend Retreat that brings people closer to God and helps them build a relationship with Jesus. It’s based on Adoration, Community, Theology, and Service which is patterned after the description of the early Church by the Acts of the Apostles. Upcoming Retreats AGAPE Various Times English Only Bible Study Amazing Grace Adaptive Praise & Evangelization (AGAPE) is a Bible Study for Adults (18+) with special needs. Weekly we explore the Sunday Mass readings through reflection, discussion, and interactive activities like games. Our time together helps deepen our understanding of Scripture in a joyful and supportive setting. Throughout the year, we also come together for fun social events. More Information Baptism Prep - Part 1 Online English Class At St Anthony of Padua, the preparation for baptism is offered as a two part program. Part 1 is an online, self-led study done at your own pace. Part 2 is an in-person, classroom experience led by one of our parish deacons. More Information Breaking Bread Sundays English & Spanish Community Group Are you looking to meet other parishioners in a smaller setting? Breaking Bread is an opportunity for you to have a meal with our Pastor, Fr. Jesse and other parishioners in the priest home (rectory). Those who are 21+ are welcome to sign up for any available time slots. More Information Catholic Daughters Various Times English Only Organization Catholic Daughters of the Americas® (CDA) is one of the oldest and largest organizations of Catholic women. Formed in 2015, Court St. Jane Frances de Chantal #2699 is the local charter instituted at St. Anthony of Padua. Our members, women ages 18 and older, have answered the call to say YES to make a difference through spirituality and service in the community. More Information Circle of Friends Various Times English Only Community Group Circle of Friends is dedicated to supporting individuals through personal fellowship, educational and spiritual events and fun activities. Membership is open to all single, divorced, widowed or separated. This ministry is not a dating service but it is a great way to meet new friends, share common experiences and enjoy companionship with others. Register Communal First Saturdays 1st Saturday of the Month English & Spanish Devotion Communal First Saturdays provides a way of fulfilling Our Lady of Fatima’s request for the First Saturday and thereby helping bring about world peace and the salvation of souls. More Information Cornerstone Evening Mondays at 6:30 PM English Only Bible Study The Cornerstone Catholic Scripture Study strives to build, strengthen and deepen a personal and loving relationship with God and His people through prayer and the study of His Word. It incorporates daily studying the Word, Prayer, daily lessons, small group sharing, personal Reflections, and a Written Commentary. Register Cornerstone Morning Wednesdays at 9:45 AM English Only Bible Study The Cornerstone Catholic Scripture Study strives to build, strengthen and deepen a personal and loving relationship with God and His people through prayer and the study of His Word. It incorporates daily studying the Word, Prayer, daily lessons, small group sharing, personal Reflections, and a Written Commentary. Register Cristificate Mondays at 10 AM Spanish Only Class Cristificate es un curso de formación cristiana y humana que ayuda a las personas a crecer en la fe para que puedan servir a los demás. Register Daily Communal Rosary Before Daily Mass English & Spanish Devotion Join us for Liturgy of the Hours at 8 AM and a Communal Rosary at 8:30 AM all before the 9:00 AM Daily Mass in the Our Lady of the Angels Chapel. See below for specifics. More Information Divine Mercy Cenacle Mondays at 10 AM English Only Devotion We study the Diary of St. Faustina using a formation manual with weekly lessons along with appropriate references from the Bible and Catechism of the Catholic Church. We emphasize and promote the concept that the Divine Mercy message is more than a devotion: It is a Way of Life. We learn the role of trust, forgiveness, and mercy in our daily lives. Register El Camino Thursdays at 6:30 PM Spanish Only Class El Camino es un grupo de Evangelización y Catequesis para Adultos en Español donde podrás crecer y fortalecer tu fe y amor a Dios, en un ambiente de comunidad fraterno y tranquilo. Register First Friday Devotion 1st Friday of the Month English Only Devotion First Friday Hour of Reparation to the Sacred Heart of Jesus comes from when Our Lord appeared to St. Margaret Mary Alocoque, and gave her the special task to spread devotion to His Most Sacred Heart at a time when religion was growing cold in the hearts of mankind. More Information Holy Hour for Vocations Once a Month on Saturday English Only Devotion Join us in praying for more vocations to the priesthood and religious life. Monthly guided holy hours will be held in the Our Lady of the Angels Chapel. See below for upcoming dates. Upcoming Dates Holy Name Retreats Various Times English & Spanish Retreat Holy Name Passionist Retreat Center supports and encourages the great human and spiritual adventure: the discovery of God and God’s loving compassion through Christ Crucified. Holy Name exists to provide hospitality, healing, compassion, and opportunities for spiritual growth for all people. Retreats are offered on many different weekends throughout the year. Upcoming Retreats Intercessory Prayer 3rd Saturday of the Month English & Spanish Devotion Join your parish family for Intercessory Prayer on the third Saturday of the month immediately following 10:00 AM daily Mass. There is no registration required for those who have a prayer request. Our prayer teams desire to pray for you! More Information Knights of Columbus Various Times English Only Organization The Knights of Columbus Council 12327 is for Catholic men, 18 years of age and older, who are committed to making their community a better place, while supporting their Church. It is through these five service areas – Faith, Community, Family, Youth and Fellowship – that we truly make a difference. More Information La Divina Misericordia Lunes a las 12 PM Spanish Only Devotion El Cenáculo de La Divina Misericordia es un grupo de oración, para experimentar el esplendor de nuestra fe Católica a través de la devoción y el Mensaje de La Divina Misericordia. Basado en la enseñanza de las Sagradas Escrituras, el Catecismo de la Iglesia Católica y el Diario de Santa Faustina; es una maravillosa oportunidad para crecer en la fe y confianza en el Señor y ayudar a la salvación de las almas. Más Información Legion of Mary Thursday Evenings English Only Devotion Legion of Mary is an apostolate centered on prayers and works of mercy. The primary objective of the Legion of Mary is the holiness of its members, under the auspices of our Blessed Mother. Through participation in the various programs of the organization, members develop an active prayer life, enhanced by serving others within our parish community. More Information Liturgy of the Hours Before Daily Mass English Only Devotion Join us in praying the Liturgy of the Hours before the 9:00 AM Daily Mass. All are welcome Monday – Friday in the Our Lady of the Angels Chapel beginning at 8:00 AM. A rosary will follow the Liturgy of the Hours and then Mass. More Information Lord Teach Me to Pray - Part 2 Virtual Meeting English Only Class Lord Teach Me To Pray (LTMTP) is a three-part Ignatian prayer series that endeavors to bring the Holy Spirit into our daily lives in facilitated faith-sharing prayer communities, where, the Lord, Himself, teaches them to pray. Note: At this time LTMTP is offered only to women. Register Millions of Monicas Monthly English Only Devotion We are a group of mothers coming together to lift up our children of all ages. Many of us have children who are struggling to embrace their Catholic faith or have left the church entirely. Like St. Monica, we pray for their joyful return to full unity with the Catholic Church. We are not a support group or a self-help group. We believe that by coming together monthly, uniting our hearts and voices, we can bring strength and joy to each other. More Information Ministerio Hispano Various Times Spanish Only Community Group Un grupo de hombres, mujeres y niños comprometidos en compartir su tiempo, talento y tesoro para convertirse en el portal cultural y la antorcha espiritual de la comunidad hispana en la parroquia de San Antonio de Padua. Más Información Momentum 3rd Friday of the Month English Only Community Group Momentum, a ministry for single moms, invites all single moms interested in growing in their faith and community with other single moms to an evening of fellowship, prayer and refreshments. Register Movimiento Familiar Various Times Spanish Only Community Group El Movimiento es un grupo de familias católicas que unen sus esfuerzos para promover los valores humanos y cristianos de la familia, para que sea en la comunidad: formadora de personas, educadora en la fe, consciente de su misión evangelizadora y comprometida con desarrollo integral de la comunidad y la iglesia doméstica. Más Información Philippine-American Group Various Times English Only Community Group A group of men, women & children committed in sharing their time, talent and treasure to become the cultural portal and spiritual torch of the Philippine-American Group at St. Anthony's (PAG-ASA). More Information Prayer & Life Workshop Sunday Mornings English Only Class The Prayer and Life Workshop is a practical, hands-on method of learning diverse ways to pray through Scripture, music, and sharing. Step by step, you will develop a deeper, more intimate union with the Lord while experiencing his peace. Register Retiro Mensuales Martes por la mañana Spanish Only Retreat El Retiro Mensual es una mañana de oración personal frente a Cristo Eucaristía ofrecido por el Movimiento Regnum Christi. Es una invitación abierta a todas las mujeres que quieran crecer en su relación personal con Jesús a través de meditaciones basadas en la Sagrada Escritura, oportunidad de confesión y de participar en la Santa Misa. Más Información Retreats Various Times English & Spanish Retreat Throughout the year we offer various retreats at St. Anthony's and around the Archdiocese. Visit our website for more information. Upcoming Retreats Rosario Familiar El primer sábado Spanish Only Devotion El Rosario Familiar en español se lleva a cabo en la Capilla de Nuestra Señora de los Ángeles el primer sábado de cada mes a las 7 pm. ¡Todos son bienvenidos a unirse! Más Información Schoenstatt Movement Various Times English & Spanish Devotion Schoenstatt is an international Catholic movement focused on spiritual renewal through everyday faith, inspired by Mary. It unites diverse communities into one family, fosters personal holiness, and promotes lay apostolic life. Its unique spirituality encourages living God’s will with practical, modern steps in faith, hope, and love. More Information Scripture & Reflection Wednesdays at 7 AM English Only Bible Study Join us for the Wednesday Morning Daily Mass at 6:00 AM. Stay after Mass and enjoy some coffee and fellowship as you discuss the readings for the Day. More Information Secular Franciscan Order 4th Saturday of the Month English Only Devotion The Secular Franciscan Order was established by St. Francis of Assisi more than 800 years ago. Our purpose is to bring the Gospel to life where we live and where we work. We look for ways to embrace the Gospel in our lives and try to help others to do likewise. We meet monthly for a small group discussion and have an annual retreat. More Information Senior Pals Various Times English, Spanish and Mandarin Community Group Anyone 50+ is invited to join our community! We host a multitude of events every month! There is a monthly meeting, trips, luncheons, and other activities to participate in. Check the bulletin for the monthly meeting times and other events. For more information, call Linda Sauceda at (775) 815-0629 Monthly Newsletter She Shall Be Called Woman Monday Evenings English Only Community Group Transforming Families, One Woman at a Time. Each content year of She Shall Be Called Woman consists of two 9-week seasons — one in the fall and one in the spring. Each meeting consists of 3 essential elements: fellowship, video presentation, and discussion within small groups. Register St. Anne's Society Various Times English Only Community Group St. Anne’s Society encourages all women blessed with the gift of motherhood to fulfill their vocation with the dignity, humility, and love of St. Anne, the mother of Mary. Our community offers the opportunity to belong to a group of women, connected by their beliefs, and focused on spiritual, social, and educational growth through monthly meetings, philanthropic events, and planned programs. Register St. Anthony Novena Tuesdays after 6:45 PM Mass English Only Devotion St Anthony’s Novena Devotion is every Tuesday after the 6:45 PM Mass. St. Anthony our patron saint, is often invoked for helping to recover lost items, healing of sick and other intentions and is popularly known as a miracle worker. Join us in asking for St. Anthony’s intercession! More Information St. Monica's Society Fridays at Noon English Only Community Group St. Monica’s Society is a group of moms with children in intermediate school through college. We gather to pray, build each other up, and glean wisdom from various Catholic books on motherhood, prayer, and spirituality. Register Taller de Oración Martes a 6:30 PM Spanish Only Class Un Taller de Oración y Vida es ante todo un método práctico para aprender a orar, igual que en un taller en que, trabajando se aprende a trabajar, aquí, orando, se aprende a orar. Paso a paso se aprende a entrar en una relación personal con el Señor. Register That Man Is You Fridays at 5:30 AM English Only Community Group That Man is You! is an interactive men’s program from Paradisus Dei, focused on the development of men in the modern world. TMIY combines the best research from science with the teachings of the Catholic faith. It builds upon the wisdom of the saints to develop the vision of authentic men capable of transforming themselves, their families and greater society. Register The Great Adventure Various Times English Only Bible Study The Great Adventure (TGA) bible study is designed in such a way that anyone can make sense of the Bible and experience the life-changing power of God’s word. TGA introduces Catholics to scripture, equipping them with a basic biblical literacy. There are multiple classes offered each semester. More Information Together in Holiness Various Times English & Spanish Community Group Together in Holiness Formation series provides year-round marriage enrichment to small groups of married couples who gather seven times throughout the year for fellowship and formation. The format of the Formation series includes gathering in someone’s home for about 2 hours for a meal, a short video, and discussion to learn from each other and live out your vocation. Register Walking With Purpose Wednesday Afternoons & Evenings English Only Bible Study Walking with Purpose Bible studies help women grow closer to Christ as they lean on truths found in Scripture to live joy-filled lives. Our Catholic Bible studies are unique in that they offer solutions found in the Bible that can be applied to our everyday lives and vary in length and depth to meet the needs of different women. Register World Wide Marriage Encounter Various Times English & Spanish Retreat The Worldwide Marriage Encounter experience offers married couples an opportunity to reconnect with each other through dialogue and time spent together. Experiences are offered in various formats to meet the needs of couples - weekend retreats, weeknight meetings, and online options. More Information Young Adults Various Times English & Spanish Community Group The Young Adults at St. Anthony’s are a group of Catholic young adults ages 18-39 (single, dating, engaged, or married) who are looking for community and opportunities to serve others. Contact us to join our mailing list and learn about all the events hosted throughout each month! More Information BACK TO TOP

Give your time at St. Anthony of Padua! Volunteer in liturgy, youth, outreach, or hospitality and help serve our parish and community. Volunteer Opportunities Are you looking to give your time and volunteer at St. Anthony's? Below are all the opportunities for you to get involved! St. Anthony of Padua requires all adults (18 years +) volunteering with our parish to be in compliance with Safe Environment. If you have not taken the Safe Environment Training, click the link below to complete it. If you have questions, please contact us. Safe Environment Training Contact Us Outreach Liturgy Hospitality Evangelization Outreach Evangelization Liturgy Hospitality Outreach Evangelization Liturgy Hospitality Food Pantry Outreach Many Volunteers are needed for the daily operations of the St. Anthony’s Bread Food Pantry: Unload truck deliveries from different vendors, sort food donations received, stock shelves, pre-pack bags of food, deliver bags/boxes of food to those in need by loading cars on food delivery days. Learn More St. Vincent de Paul Outreach St. Vincent De Paul helps tackle poverty and disadvantage by providing direct practical assistance to anyone in need. This is usually provided as short-term assistance to those in crisis in the form of rent assistance, utility bills, or other emergency funding. Volunteers will answer phones, scheduling and conducting home visits, pledging funds and paying client bills. Learn More Honduras Mission Outreach Every year, our missionaries work in outdoor clinics, schools and churches providing medical and dental care for hundreds of villagers in need of attention. Services include: check-ups, consultations, dental extractions and restorations and the distribution of medicines and vitamins. HIGHLIGHT : Both Fr. Jesse and Fr. Viet went on mission June 2026. Watch their personal testimonies! Learn More Fellowship Sunday Hospitality Fellowship Sunday is a great opportunity for our parish to come together after Mass and enjoy some donuts, coffee, and community! Come meet some new friends, and learn about the various ministries and events going on in our Parish. If you would like to volunteer for Fellowship Sunday, contact us. Contact Us Breaking Bread Hospitality On Sundays after Mass, parishioners are invited over to Fr. Jesse's home to share a light meal with him. We are in need of volunteers to help "host" the Breaking Bread sessions. Contact us A/V Ministry Liturgy The A/V Ministry is responsible for the execution of a prayerful and reverent worship experience. Ministers assist with setup, mixing audio, projecting lyrics, and broadcasting the live stream during the liturgy to enhance the spiritual experience for parishioners and encourage the assembly to actively participate. Learn More Altar Servers Liturgy Altar Servers provide respectful and reverent altar service at our Lord’s table during scheduled liturgies. The Altar Server ministry is open to those who have completed the fourth grade, have received their First Holy communion, and are members of a family that is registered in our Parish. Contact Us Children's Catechist Evangelization Catechist means “to echo.” As Baptized Catholics, we are all called to echo Christ’s message. Experience the rewards of sharing your faith and leading our young parishioners to know the love of God and our Catholic faith. There are at least 2 Catechists in each classroom, and all materials are provided. Learn More Children's Volunteer Evangelization With over 1,000 children participating in the Faith Formation and Sacraments programs at St. Anthony’s, we need many hands to provide them with activities, handouts, and safety while they are on campus. Dates and times are flexible enough to fit any schedule. Please let us know if you can spare some time to help! Learn More Creation Care Ministry Outreach In partnership with Sts. Simon & Jude and inspired by Catholic teaching and Laudato Si’ , our Creation Care Team is committed to educating, advocating, and guiding our community in living out the call to care for our common home. Together, we seek to embrace ecological responsibility and build a more just and sustainable future for all. More Information EMHC Liturgy Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion (EMHC) assist the pastor and deacon in distributing Holy Communion during Mass. Training for this ministry is offered periodically throughout the year. Watch for announcements in the bulletin or at ap.church/events . Learn More EMHC Visitation Liturgy This extension of our liturgy permits commissioned Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion to bring the Blessed Sacrament to those who are homebound. Learn More Habitat for Humanity Outreach Habitat for Humanity Montgomery County, TX (Habitat MCTX) is building affordable homes and making critical home repairs to provide long-term home ownership to hard working families in need or to allow existing low-income homeowners to age in place. The major project over the next two decades will be the development of Marble Creek – a 201 home residential community in Magnolia, TX. More Information Instituted Acolyte Liturgy The Instituted Acolyte is appointed to assist the Deacon and serve the Priest during the Mass. He is an extraordinary minister of Holy Communion. The primary responsibility is to assist with the purification of vessels used in the distribution of Holy Communion. Learn More Kolbe Prison Ministry Outreach Kolbe Prison Ministries is an apostolate to those incarcerated men in Texas prisons. We run three day retreats, bible studies, OCIA Classes, praise and worship, and much more! Contact Us Lector - English Liturgy Lectors proclaim the Word of God at Mass so as to bring alive the scriptures in the hearts of the faithful gathered. Learn More Lectores - en Español Liturgy Lectores – en Español: Los lectores proclaman la Palabra de Dios en la Misa para dar vida a las Escrituras en el corazón de los fieles reunidos. Contact Us Linen Ministry Liturgy The Linen Ministry is responsible for the care of all church linens integral to the Mass, such as purificators, corporals, altar cloths, credence tablecloths, hand towels, albs, vestments, and other specialty linens. Contact Us Loving Choice Pregnancy Center Outreach Loving Choice Pregnancy Center provides free pregnancy tests, compassionate support, and information for women facing an unexpected pregnancy. Their volunteers offer a listening ear and guidance in a caring, judgment-free environment. Contact Us Marriage Preparation Hospitality Volunteers Hospitality Marriage Preparation Hospitality Volunteers help create a warm, welcoming environment for engaged couples as they begin an important step in their journey toward the Sacrament of Marriage. Responsibilities include arriving before the workshops to prepare the meeting space, greeting couples as they arrive, and assisting with serving lunch. Contact Us Misc Volunteer Outreach Not sure where you want to give your time? Contact our Outreach Coordinator to learn more about volunteering opportunties Contact Us Music Ministry Liturgy The Music Ministry creates an atmosphere of celebration and reverence to God through music for all Masses. St Anthony's music program includes cantors, choir(s), and instrumentalists to share in the musical experience of prayer. If you are interested in volunteering with our music ministry, we are always looking for singers, musicians, and admin help! Submit an interest form here and we can schedule a time to meet with you. Learn More Pro-Life Council Outreach The Pro-Life Council at St Anthony of Padua is dedicated to promoting a Culture of Life throughout our community through pastoral ministry, education, advocacy and prayer. We are committed to recognizing and protecting of the dignity of every human life, especially where most vulnerable. Learn More Sacristan Liturgy The Sacristan supervises the set-up for Daily and Weekend Masses. They coordinate the Liturgical Ministers (EMHC’s, Ushers, Greeters) who are serving at that specific Mass. The Sacristan is responsible for the set-up and physical arrangement of the Liturgy. Learn More St. Clare's Society Outreach St. Clare’s Society prepares lap-sized prayer blankets for those who may be in need of spiritual comfort during times of physical or emotional illness. The blankets are a witness to our belief in the healing power of prayer. Please stop by the Parish Office and pick up a prayer blanket for a loved one! Contact Us St. Daniel Prison Ministry Outreach St. Daniel Prison Ministry serves the incarcerated men and women in Texas prisons through bible studies and praise and worship. Contact Us St. Joseph's Foster Care Ministry Outreach The St.Joseph Foster Care Ministry is devoted to creating a supportive, Christ-centered community for foster and adoptive families. Our mission is to raise awareness, support vulnerable children and families in our community, and serve alongside community partners already doing incredible work to support foster youth. More Information St. Leonard Rosary Outreach St. Leonard Society makes specially designed rosaries for incarcerated men and women in prisons throughout the state of Texas. SLRG has provided over 9,000 rosaries over the last four years. Email us if you are interested in helping with this ministry even from the comfort of your own home! Contact Us Usher Liturgy Ushers are the welcoming faces that provide orderly and efficient assistance during the Mass. All registered parishioners who are either a sophomore in high school or 16 years and older with an outgoing personality and a love for the Mass are welcome to join! Learn More Walking With Moms Outreach Pregnant and parenting moms in need are in our local community and we are increasing awareness of resources available to mothers and families in need. Learn More Wedding Coordinator Liturgy The Wedding Coordinator is responsible for running the wedding rehearsal the day before the wedding. Then on the big day, they are responsible for setting up the church, and assisting the musicians, florists, photographers, and families as they arrive for this special day and making them feel at ease as they await the ceremony to start. Contact Us Welcoming Team Hospitality We are seeking volunteers who can arrive 30 minutes before Sunday mass to warmly greet parishioners in the piazza and the church entrances, offering assistance when needed. Contact Us Youth Ministry Core Team Evangelization Youth Ministry Core Team helps lead our middle and high school teens to know and love God and build strong and meaningful friendships with other Catholic teens. Small groups are supported by two core members, and all training and materials are provided. Learn More Youth Ministry Volunteer Evangelization Youth Ministry Parent Volunteers help with activities, materials, and campus safety. Flexible opportunities are available to fit your schedule. Learn More BACK TO TOP

Join our welcoming Catholic community at St. Anthony of Padua in The Woodlands, TX. Mass times, confessions, events, and parish programs for all ages. Welcome To St. Anthony of Padua The Woodlands, TX Mass Times Welcome Daily Mass Monday: 9 AM • Our Lady of the Angels Chapel (OLA) Tuesday: 9 AM & 6:45 PM • OLA Chapel Wednesday: 6 AM and 8:30 AM • Main Church Thursday: 9 AM and 6:45 PM • OLA Chapel Friday: 9 AM • OLA Chapel Saturday*: 10 AM • OLA Chapel *The First Saturday of every month, Daily Mass will be moved to the Main Church. We, the people of St. Anthony of Padua, are a joyful Roman Catholic Community. We believe Our Lord calls us beyond membership to become His true disciples and live as One Body in Christ. Therefore, we choose to use our unique gifts to build a welcoming, interconnected gathering of the faithful that will be a beacon, a light to the world. Parish Mission Statement – Adopted on September 8, 1998 (Birthday of Our Lady) Weekend Mass (Main Church) Saturday: 5 PM Vigil Mass Sunday: 7 AM, 9 AM, 11 AM, 1 PM Español, 6 PM Nursery Registration Parish Survey - Disciple Maker Index - Coming Soon Confession * Confessions are located in the Our Lady of the Angels Chapel Tuesday: 5 PM - 6:30 PM • English and Español Wednesday: 6 PM - 8 PM • English Only Thursday: 5 PM - 6:30 PM • English and Español Saturday*: 8 AM - 10 AM • English and Español *The First Saturday of every month, Confessions will be moved to the Main Church. Every Saturday we have nursery available. Pre-registration is required. Nursery Registration MAIN CHURCH PARISH OFFICE 7801 Bay Branch Dr The Woodlands, TX 77382 OUR LADY OF THE ANGELS CHAPEL 8715 Kuykendahl Rd The Woodlands, TX 77382 ST ANTHONY'S BREAD FOOD PANTRY 7985 Bay Branch Dr The Woodlands, TX 77382 JOIN OUR PARISH Register Today! PARISH EVENTS Upcoming Events EMAIL LIST Subscribe to Emails LIVE STREAM Watch Our Live Stream Calendar of Events Calendar of Events Calendar of Events

Catholic Daughters of the Americas® (CDA) is one of the oldest and largest organizations of Catholic women. Formed in 2015, Court St. Jane Frances de Chantal #2699 is the local charter instituted at St. Anthony of Padua. Our members, women ages 18 and older, have answered the call to say YES to make a difference through spirituality and service in the community.  Organization Grow in your Faith Are you looking to deepen your faith? There are plenty of opportunities for adults to get involved at our parish. We have Bible Studies, Community Groups, Prayer and Devotions, Classes, Retreats, Organizations, and Groups in Spanish. I Want to Volunteer Contact Us All Categories Bible Study Class Community Group Organization Devotion Retreat Catholic Daughters Various Times English Only Organization Catholic Daughters of the Americas® (CDA) is one of the oldest and largest organizations of Catholic women. Formed in 2015, Court St. Jane Frances de Chantal #2699 is the local charter instituted at St. Anthony of Padua. Our members, women ages 18 and older, have answered the call to say YES to make a difference through spirituality and service in the community. More Information Knights of Columbus Various Times English Only Organization The Knights of Columbus Council 12327 is for Catholic men, 18 years of age and older, who are committed to making their community a better place, while supporting their Church. It is through these five service areas – Faith, Community, Family, Youth and Fellowship – that we truly make a difference. More Information BACK TO ADULT FAITH - GET INVOLVED BACK TO TOP

Illuminatus was likely martyred during the reign of Emperor Diocletian. The Roman Emperor Diocletian (r. 284-305) was severely anti-Christian and persecuted the Church and the early Christians. Many saints were martyred during this time and suffered greatly for their faith. Modern historians estimate that between 3,000 and 3,500 Christians were martyred during the reign of Emperor Diocletian. St. Illuminatus Time Period: 3rd-4th Century Feast Day: No Assigned Date Title/Attributes: Martyr Location of Relic: Back Left Reliquary - Left Section Type of Relic: Bones Illuminatus was likely martyred during the Reign of Diocletian. There were many martyrs during the “Diocletianic Era”. The Diocletianic Era was the unusual practice of reckoning time from the start of the reign of the bitterly anti-Christian Emperor Diocletian (r. 284–305). This is in recognition of the severe persecution of the Church under Diocletian and his colleagues in rule, Maximian (r. 286-305) and Galerius (r. 305-311), although the formal universal oppression did not commence until 303, the so-called Great Oppression. Another colleague, or junior emperor, Caesar Constantius I Chlorus (r. 293-306), was conspicuous for his leniency toward Christians. Next Item Previous Item

St. Lawrence, born around 225 in Huesca, Spain, was ordained a deacon by Pope Sixtus II and later appointed Archdeacon of Rome. In 258, after Sixtus’s martyrdom under Emperor Valerian’s edict, Lawrence was ordered to surrender the Church’s riches. Instead, he presented Rome’s poor and sick, declaring them the true treasures of the Church. Enraged, the prefect had him executed on a red-hot grill, where Lawrence famously joked, “Turn me over; I’m done on this side.” His courage inspired many, and he is honored in the First Eucharistic Prayer as a model of faith, service, and martyrdom. St. Lawrence Time Period: 225-258 Feast Day: August 10 Title/Attributes: Deacon, Martyr Location of Relic: Main Reliquary - Left Section Type of Relic: Bones St. Lawrence was born around 225 in Huesca, Spain, which was apart of the Roman province of Hispania Tarraconensis. Tradition states that both of his parents were martyrs for their faith. Pope Sixtus II was a famous teacher before he became the Supreme Pontiff. During his teaching days, he encountered Lawrence, and they traveled together from Hispania to Rome. Sixtus became the pope in 257 AD and shortly after that, he ordained Lawrence as a Deacon at 32 years old. Later, Sixtus II appointed Lawrence as the Archdeacon of Rome, putting him in charge of the treasury and riches of the Church and the distribution of alms. In August 258, Emperor Valerian issued an edict demanding that all clergy (bishops, priests, and deacons) should be executed. Pope Sixtus II was martyred on August 6, 258. Immediately following the death of Pope Sixtus II, the prefect of Rome told Lawrence to gather up the riches and treasures of the of the Church and turn it into the Roman government. Lawrence responded, saying he needed a few days to collect all the treasures. Lawrence made good on his promise and brought the people of the city to the authorities. He brought the poor, the crippled, the diseased, and the suffering people. Lawrence proclaimed, “here are the treasures of the Church. You see, the Church is truly rich, far richer than your emperor!” The Roman prefect was so angry that he ordered the execution of Lawrence. Lawrence was placed on a red-hot grill, where he made the famous comment that he was roasted on one side and should be turned over. Lawrence’s example of faith and courage spread throughout the empire. He is mentioned in the First Eucharistic Prayer during Mass and remembered as one of the prominent deacons in the Church. Next Item Previous Item

St. Matthew, also called Levi, was one of the twelve Apostles and one of the four Gospel writers. Born in Galilee, he worked as a tax collector in Capernaum before being called by Christ. Matthew authored the first Gospel, likely written between 60 and 90, originally in Hebraic or Aramaic, possibly while in Antioch, Syria. He preached in Jerusalem and later in Ethiopia, where he was martyred. His Gospel portrays Christ’s genealogy, ministry, Passion, and Resurrection, emphasizing Jesus as the Messiah. In liturgical art, Matthew is often depicted with an angel holding a lance, coin, pen, or money box. St. Matthew the Apostle Time Period: 1st Century Feast Day: September 21 Title/Attributes: Apostle, Martyr Location of Relic: Main Reliquary - Center Section Type of Relic: Bones St. Matthew is one of the twelve Apostles and one of the four Gospel writers. He is also called Levi, or Matthew the Levite. He was probably born in Galilee and worked as a tax collector at Capernaum (Matthew 9:9-13) when Christ called him to follow him (Mark 2:14; Luke 5:27-32). Matthew was the author of the first Gospel, written between 60 and 90. It was probably in Hebraic or in Aramaic in its original form. Some scholars believe Matthew was in Antioch, Syria, when he wrote the Gospel. He preached in Jerusalem and then went to Ethiopia, where he was martyred in Persia or in Ethiopia. Matthew provides a telling portrait of Christ in his Gospel, including his genealogy, ministry, Passion, and Resurrection. The entire work is designed to provide a true recognition of Christ as the Messiah. Matthew is represented in liturgical art by an angel holding a lance, a coin, a pen or a money box. Next Item Previous Item

St. Frances Xavier Cabrini, the first United States citizen to become a saint, was born on July 15th, 1850 in a village near Milan, Italy. Inspired with missionary zeal at a young age, she attempted to join a religious order at 18, but was denied due to her poor health. Undeterred, her missionary heart led her to restore an orphanage in Cadagono, Italy, which began an incredible journey of founding a religious order, becoming Mother Cabrini, and opening schools, hospitals and orphanages around the world. She became a U.S. citizen in 1909, and is the patron saint of immigrants. Her feast day is November 13th. St. Frances Xavier Cabrini Time Period: 1850-1917 Feast Day: November 13 Title/Attributes: Virgin Location of Relic: Back Left Reliquary - Right Section Type of Relic: Bones Saint Frances Xavier Cabrini, the first United States citizen to become a saint, was born on July 15, 1850 in S’ant Angelo Lodigiano, a small village near Milan, Italy. Inspired with a missionary zeal at a young age and intrigued with the future of religious life, she studied arduously at her school, run by the Daughters of the Sacred Heart. She graduated with high honors at 18 and immediately applied for admission to the religious order but was turned down due to her poor health. Undeterred, she devoted herself to a life of lay service. She accepted a substitute teaching position in a village school, where she met Father Antonio Serrati, the rector of the parish run by the Daughters of the Sacred Heart. Fr. Antonio took notice of her missionary heart, and when Frances attempted to join the religious order again, he gave her a different mission: travel to Cadagono, Italy in order to help restore a disorganized and poorly run orphanage called the House of Providence. At 24 years old, she journeyed to Cadogno for a six-year period of training, teaching, and building a community of women who were devoted to a life of charitable work. In September of 1877, she became Mother Cabrini, making her vows at the House of Providence, and putting on her religious habit for the first time. She also added “Xavier” to her name, in honor of St. Francis Xavier. Frances was named Mother Superior of the House of Providence, helping train seven young nuns before the orphanage was abruptly closed in 1880. Now homeless, Frances would soon receive a suggestion from the Bishop of Lodi: found a missionary order of women to serve in his diocese. She accepted, moving with the nuns into an abandoned Franciscan friary. They became a hub of activity - receiving orphans, opening a day school, teaching classes in needlework, and doing everything they could with few resources to serve those in their area. At the same time, Mother Cabrini was beginning to draw together a simple rule of life for the institute, choosing St. Francis de Sales and St. Francis Xavier as their patrons. She composed the rule and constitution of their religious institute, designing a simple habit to wear, and they became the Missionary Sisters of the Sacred Heart. In its first five years, the institute would open seven homes, a free school, and a nursery, with many postulants flocking to Cadogno to join. Mother Cabrini traveled to Rome in 1877 to seek papal approval for her order from Pope Leo XIII, who encouraged her to take her missionary zeal “not to the East, but to the West.” At that time, millions of Italians had emigrated to the United States seeking new opportunities for their families, but found only hardships and cruelty. Lured by the enticements of a fresh start, they were immediately exploited and pulled into exceedingly dangerous jobs while living in clusters of overcrowded, disease-filled “Little Italy” slums. Most Italians found their dreams unmet, and were lonely and homesick in a new, vast country. On March 31, 1889, Mother Cabrini and six other sisters arrived in New York, ready to serve the Lord. They were met with challenges immediately, when a misunderstanding at the time of their arrival revealed that the building originally intended to be their orphanage was no longer available. The Archbishop suggested that the nuns should return to Italy, but Mother Cabrini refused. Thanks to a generous donation, the brave nuns purchased their first house, and an orphanage was soon taking root in West Park, New York, which is now known as the Saint Cabrini Home. Mother Cabrini would go on to open numerous orphanages, hospitals and schools around the world. She traveled vigorously, leaving a wake of care and support to those in need behind her. Even where she didn’t have an established institution, her presence alone led many groups and governments to take constructive steps to remedy any suffering or shortages in their area. In 1909, Mother Cabrini took the oath of allegiance to the United States in Seattle. Eight years after becoming a U.S. citizen, she was in Chicago when she suffered a recurrence of illnesses related to a previous bout with malaria. She died on December 22, 1917, in one of her own hospitals in Chicago. She was 67. St. Frances made an indelible impact on countless lives, and she is an incredible witness of a citizen-servant who was unafraid to serve God and neighbor alike. Next Item Previous Item

St. Rosa of Lima, born Isabel Flores de Oliva in 1586, was known for her devotion to the Virgin Mary and her love for Christ. After her family fell into poverty, she worked hard while bringing Christian values to her community. She dedicated her life to prayer, penance, and helping the needy, especially children and the elderly. Despite her desire for cloistered life, she lived as a Dominican tertiary in seclusion. Known for miracles and mortifications, she was canonized in 1671. Rosa is the first saint of the Americas, and patroness of Peru, Latin America, and the Philippines. St. Rose of Lima Time Period: 1586-1617 Feast Day: August 23 Title/Attributes: Virgin, Dominican Location of Relic: Back Right Reliquary - Center Section Type of Relic: Bones Isabel Flores de Oliva was born in Lima on April 20, 1586, the tenth of thirteen children of the Flores de Oliva, Spanish nobles who had moved to Peru. It was her nurse Marianna, of Indian origin, who gave her the name Rosa because of the incredible beauty that characterized her. A name later confirmed at her confirmation and at the age of twenty when she wore the habit of the Third Order of Dominicans, like her model of life, Saint Catherine of Siena. The name "of Saint Mary" was then added to Rosa, to express the tender love that always tied her to the Virgin to whom she turned at every moment to ask for protection. Santa Rosa experienced poverty when her family fell into poverty due to the failure of her father's business; she worked hard as a maid, in the garden and as an embroiderer, until late at night, bringing the Word of Christ and her yearning for good and justice to the homes of buyers, which, in the Peruvian society of the time, crushed by colonizing Spain, seemed completely obscured. In her mother's house she created a sort of shelter for the needy, where she assisted abandoned children and elderly people, especially of Indian origin. Already as a child, Rosa aspired to consecrate herself to God in the cloistered life, but she remained a "virgin in the world" and as a Dominican tertiary she locked herself in a cell of a few square meters, built in the garden of her mother's house, from which she left only for religious functions and where she spent most of her days praying and in close union with the Lord. While praying before an image of the Virgin Mary with Jesus in her arms, one day Rosa heard a voice from that child that said to her: "Rosa, dedicate all your love to me ...". She had no doubts: from then on, Jesus was her exclusive love until death, a love cultivated in virginity, prayer and penance. She often repeated: "My God, you can increase suffering, as long as you increase my love for you". It is the redemptive meaning of the Passion of Christ that became clear to her: pain lived with faith redeems, saves. And the pain of man can be associated with the saving pain of Christ. It is an interior turning point that coincided with the reading of Saint Catherine, from whom she learned love for the blood of Christ and love for the Church. And it is precisely in her hermitage in the garden that Saint Rose relived in the flesh the passion of Jesus, with two intentions: the conversion of the Spaniards and the evangelization of the Indians. In fact, mortifications and corporal punishments of all kinds are attributed to her, but also many conversions and miracles. One of all, the failed invasion of the Dutch pirates in Lima in 1615. While she was still alive, Rosa was examined by a mixed commission of religious and scientific people who judged her mystical experiences as true "gifts of grace", so much so that at her death, due to the enormous crowd that attended her funeral, Rosa was already a saint. She died only after having renewed her religious vows, repeating several times: "Jesus, be with me!". It was the night of August 23, 1617. After her death, when her body was transported to the Chapel of the Rosary, the Madonna from that statue before which the Saint had prayed so many times smiled at her again, for the last time. The crowd present cried out a miracle. In 1668, Rosa was beatified by Pope Clement IX and canonized three years later. She is the first canonized saint of the New World and is the patron saint of Peru, of all Latin America, of the Indies and of the Philippines. She is invoked as the protector of florists and gardeners, against volcanic eruptions and also in case of wounds or for the resolution of family disputes. A Jubilee Year commemorated the 400th anniversary of the death of Saint Rose with the motto: “400 years interceding for you,” in reference to the thousands of prayers that the Saint received and answered over the course of four centuries. https://www.causesanti.va/it/santi-e-beati/rosa-da-lima.html Next Item Previous Item