St. Louis de Marillac was a foundress and patroness of social workers. She was born in France and later married Anthony Le Gras who unfortunately died in 1625. As a widow, she then met St. Vincent de Paul and assumed the task of directing the Ladies of Charity. In 1633, she opened her home to train workers for the poor, founding the Sisters of Charity of St. Paul, which received formal approval in 1655. Louise traveled throughout France to establish orphanages, hospitals, and other services for the poor, founding forty houses before she died on March 15. St. Louise de Marillac Time Period: 1591-1660 Feast Day: March 15 Title/Attributes: Widow, Mother, Foundress Location of Relic: Back Right Reliquary - Center Section Type of Relic: Clothing St. Louis de Marillac was a foundress and patroness of social workers. She was born in France and later married Anthony Le Gras who unfortunately died in 1625. As a widow, she then met St. Vincent de Paul and assumed the task of directing the Ladies of Charity. In 1633, she opened her home to train workers for the poor, founding the Sisters of Charity of St. Paul, which received formal approval in 1655. Louise traveled throughout France to establish orphanages, hospitals, and other services for the poor, founding forty houses before she died on March 15. Next Item Previous Item

St. Julian of Le Mans was the first Bishop of the Christian community of Suindinum, Gual (modern Le Mans, France). Tradition states that he was a Roman nobleman. Julian performed extravagant miracles and was honored during the Middle Ages as the patron of churches in England. St. Julian of Le Mans Time Period: 3rd Century Feast Day: January 27 Title/Attributes: Bishop, Confessor Location of Relic: Back Right Reliquary - Right Section Type of Relic: Bones St. Julian of Le Mans was the first Bishop of the Christian community of Suindinum, Gual (modern Le Mans, France). Tradition states that he was a Roman nobleman. Julian performed extravagant miracles and was honored during the Middle Ages as the patron of churches in England. Next Item Previous Item

One of the most important philosophers in the history of the Catholic church, Saint Justin Martyr was the first known writer to quote from the Acts of the Apostles and his deeply profound writings made an indelible impact and contribution to Christian theology. Of all Justin’s writings, only a portion survive, but three are held in the highest regard amidst Christian apologetics: his two Apologies, and Dialogue with Tryphon. With his ardent defense of the faith, his use of philosophical wisdom, and hunger for undeniable truth, there is much we can learn from the inspiring Saint Justin Martyr. St. Justin Time Period: 100-165 Feast Day: June 1 Title/Attributes: Apologist, Martyr Location of Relic: Main Reliquary - Left Section Type of Relic: Bones Every human during their time on Earth is searching for something – purpose, fame, fortune, love, etc. For Saint Justin Martyr, his search was for truth, and he found it in the one true God: Jesus Christ. One of the most important philosophers in the history of the Catholic church, he was the first known writer to quote from the Acts of the Apostles and his deeply profound writings made an indelible impact and contribution to Christian theology. Born around the year 100 A.D. in Flavia Neapolis, Palestine (the present-day city of Nablus), Justin was born to pagan parents and became extremely well educated to the teachings of Stoicism, Platonism and other pagan philosophies. He developed a profound love for truth, and sought it out through multiple philosophical schools, but none of them quenched his thirst. He pinballed from one teaching to the other, but whether it was a philosopher too eager for his fee or a teacher unable to explain God’s being adequately to the student, he was left unsatisfied, until a chance encounter changed his life. Justin’s writings depict him crossing paths with an old man walking along the seashore, who engaged in a dialogue about God that kindled a fire in his soul. The old man imparted on Justin the testimony of prophets and their increased reliability over the flawed reasoning of philosophers. In his second-century Christian apologetic text Dialogue with Trypho, Justin recounts the man telling him “There existed, long before this time, certain men more ancient than all those who are esteemed philosophers, both righteous and beloved by God, who spoke by the Divine Spirit, and foretold events which would take place, and which are now taking place. They are called prophets. These alone both saw and announced the truth to men, neither reverencing nor fearing any man, not influenced by a desire for glory, but speaking those things alone which they saw and which they heard, being filled with the Holy Spirit.” Justin’s writings make it clear that he admired Christians from afar because of the beauty found in the way their profound morals shaped their lives. While a disciple of Plato, he had been skeptical of the accusations he heard regarding Christians, due to how they were “intrepid in the face of death and of all that men fear.” From what he was witnessing and learning, he felt that it was “impossible that they should be living in evil and in the love of pleasure.” After talking with the man by the beach, he finally understood the witness of Christians who “preferred truth to life.” The final cementing on the Christianity’s proof of truth for Justin was the witness of martyrdom; plenty of people had died for Jesus Christ, but nobody died for the teachings of Socrates. Justin soon renounced his former religion, becoming a Christian in the year 132, most likely in the city of Ephesus, located in modern Turkey. He began traveling far and wide, inspired with the passion of his Christian faith, to proclaim his newfound philosophy in hopes of converting educated pagans to the Lord. He spent a decent amount of time in Rome, establishing a school, debating cynics, writing wise apologetical works, and creating a fair share of non-Christian enemies in the process. Many of his teachings clashed with those of various Roman, Greek and Jewish scholars, and during the reign of Marcus Aurelius in Rome, Justin debated with the cynic Crescens, who would in turn denounce him as seditious to the authorities. Justin was arrested for being a Christian, a faith of which was under heavy persecution at the time by Aurelius, and after he refused to offer a sacrifice to pagan gods, he was tried, found guilty, and condemned to death in the year 165, alongside six companions. He died by execution, and authentic records of his martyrdom, by beheading, still exist to this day. Of all Justin’s writings, only a portion survive, but three are held in the highest regard amidst Christian apologetics: his two Apologies, and Dialogue with Tryphon. In the First Apology, Justin vehemently defended his fellow Christians against the accusations of atheism and open hostility towards them from the Roman state. He also dove into the core of his Christian philosophy, which was rooted in the term logos, the Greek word for “intellect” or “word.” Justin explained that logos enables humankind to understand basic truths all around them (time, creation, good & evil, etc.), but that Jesus Christ alone was the divine logos, and the ultimate truth. His writings went on to continually defend Christianity from Roman attack, provide incredible descriptions of the beauty contained within the sacraments of baptism and the Eucharist, and compared core Christian beliefs with the beliefs of the Greco-Roman religion, to demonstrate the truth and beauty that was weaved throughout Christianity like a beautiful tapestry. Justin had an incredible knowledge of scripture – many scholars find his writings particularly informative thanks to his understanding of the Gospels of Matthew, Mark, Luke & John. His writings established a solid foundation of salvation history, as well as a principal history of the Catholic church, from his writings regarding the sacraments. With his ardent defense of the faith, his use of philosophical wisdom, and hunger for undeniable truth, there is much we can learn from Saint Justin Martyr. He was unafraid to learn more, to grow in his faith, and to follow the Truth all the way unto death. Next Item Previous Item

As we continue to grow together, there are certain aspects of our beloved church that would benefit from rejuvenation and upkeep. These include various yearly expenses where your generous support would make a significant difference. Parish Wishlist As we continue to grow together, there are certain aspects of our beloved church that would benefit from rejuvenation and upkeep. These include various yearly expenses where your generous support would make a significant difference. While your name won't be publicly listed as a donor for these items, it will be gratefully acknowledged on your annual giving statement. Your contribution, no matter the size, is deeply valued and helps sustain the vibrant spirit of our parish. Contact Us Giving Homepage Easter Candle $3,000 Candle for the Church Give Now Easter Candle $3,000 Candle for the Chapel Give Now Altar Linens $3,000 200 linens per year Give Now Missals $10,000 1,000 missals for Church and Chapel Give Now Bread & Wine $12,000 $1,000 per month Give Now Liturgy Candles $2,500 250 candles per year Give Now Baptismal Rosaries $1,750 350 baptisms per year Give Now Youth Ministry Scholarships $5,000 $150 per teen Give Now Children's Scholarships $5,000 $80 per child Give Now Distribution Bags $2,000 6,500 bags per month Give Now Narthex Table Flowers $325 $325 per week Give Now Church Altar Flowers $625 $625 per week Give Now BACK TO TOP

The Martyrs of Gorkum were 19 Catholic priests captured during the Dutch Revolt in 1572 by Calvinist rebels. After enduring harsh imprisonment in Gorkum, they were taken to Brielle, where Admiral Lumey demanded they renounce their Catholic faith. All refused to deny their faith. On July 9, 1572, they were hanged and later buried, with reports of miraculous signs at the site. Canonized in 1867 by Pope Pius IX, their relics were moved to St. Nicholas Church in Brussels. Remembered on July 9, they stand as enduring witnesses of faith and courage. The Martyrs of Gorkum Time Period: d. 1572 Feast Day: July 9 Title/Attributes: Martyrs Location of Relic: Back Left Reliquary - Center Section Type of Relic: Bones The Martyrs of Gorkum were 19 Catholic priests from various religious orders who were captured during the Dutch Revolt amid the religious wars of the 16th century. In June 1572, a Calvinist rebel group, seized the town of Gorkum (now Gorinchem) and imprisoned the Catholic clergy From June 26 to July 6, the prisoners were held under harsh conditions at Gorkum and later transported to Brielle (Den Briel) aboard a ship. In Brielle, Admiral Lumey interrogated them, pressing them to renounce their Catholic faith. All steadfastly refused. Despite intervention from Prince William of Orange, whose letter instructed local authorities not to harm clergy, and protests from Gorkum magistrates, Lumey ordered the executions. On the night of July 9, 1572, the 19 were hanged in Brielle. Their bodies were mutilated, then hastily buried, reportedly accompanied by miraculous signs—like a shrub of 19 white flowers that emerged at the site. Canonized on June 29, 1867, by Pope Pius IX, the Martyrs of Gorkum have since inspired pilgrimages to Brielle. Most of their relics were transferred to St. Nicholas Church in Brussels, where a shrine was erected in their honor. These martyrs are remembered on July 9, their feast day, as enduring symbols of faith and courage. Next Item Previous Item

Gift in Your Will or Trust Remembering our parish in your will or trust is a meaningful way to extend your faith and generosity beyond your lifetime By including a gift in your will or trust, you can provide lasting support for the mission and ministries of our parish while ensuring your loved ones are cared for first. This type of gift is flexible—you can designate a specific amount, a percentage of your estate, or the remainder after other bequests are fulfilled. Benefits to You: • You keep full use and control of your assets during your lifetime. • Your gift can be changed at any time if your circumstances or wishes change. • Your estate may receive tax advantages, which can benefit your heirs. • It is often as simple as adding a single sentence to your will or trust. How It Works: 1. Speak with your attorney about including our parish in your will or trust. 2. Decide whether to leave a specific dollar amount, a percentage, or a residual gift. 3. Use our parish’s full legal name and address to ensure clarity in your documents. St. Anthony of Padua Catholic Church 7801 Bay Branch Drive; The Woodlands, TX 77381 4. If desired, include how funds should be used such as St. Anthony of Padua Parish Endowment 5. Share your plans with us so we can thank you and ensure your intentions are honored. Sample Residual Bequest I give, devise, and bequeath to St. Anthony of Padua Catholic Church, located in The Woodlands, Texas, all (or state a percentage) of the rest, residue and remainder of my estate, both real and personal, to be used for its unrestricted use (or for the support of a specific fund or ministry, or St. Anthony of Padua Parish Endowment). Sample Specific Bequest I hereby give, devise and bequeath to St. Anthony of Padua Catholic Church, located in The Woodlands, Texas, _________ and No/100 dollars ($DOLLARS) to be used for its unrestricted use (or for the support of a specific fund or ministry, or St. Anthony of Padua Parish Endowment). For questions, please contact: Joe Corona Email: jcorona@ap.church We encourage you to consult with your estate attorney, financial or tax advisor. Next Item Previous Item

St. Martha, sister of Mary and Lazarus, is known as the model of active Christian service. In Luke’s Gospel, she hosts Jesus and is gently corrected for being anxious while Mary listens to Him—highlighting the contrast between action and contemplation. St. Gregory the Great emphasized that while Martha’s service was good, Mary’s contemplation was greater. Martha also showed deep faith when she met Jesus after Lazarus’ death (John 11). Tradition holds that Martha later traveled with her siblings to Gaul as missionaries. She is venerated as a symbol of hospitality, faith, and dedication to service in the Christian life. St. Martha Time Period: 1st Century Feast Day: July 29 Title/Attributes: Friend of the Lord Location of Relic: Main Reliquary - Left Section Type of Relic: Bones St. Martha was the sister of Sts. Lazarus and Mary at Bethany. She was the hostess of the household, probably the eldest sister. When Jesus stayed at the home in Bethany, Martha tended to his needs. On one visit, recorded in Luke (10:38-42), Martha complained that Mary sat listening to Jesus, leaving her with all the work. Jesus said, “it is Mary who has chosen the better part.” Martha thus became the prototype of the activist Christian and Mary the symbol of the contemplative life. St. Gregory the Great wrote, “For what is set forth by Mary, who sitting down gave ear to the words of our Lord, save the life of contemplation? And what by Martha, so busied with outward services, save the life of action? Now Martha’s concern is not reproved, but that of Mary is even commended.” He then arrived at this vital conclusion: “For the merits of the active life are great, but of the contemplative, far better.” Martha was the one who went out to meet Jesus when Lazarus died (John 11:20), while Mary remained at home. Later, Martha went with Mary and Lazarus to Gaul (modern France), serving as missionaries. Next Item Previous Item

St. Rose of Viterbo, born in 1234 in Viterbo, Italy, was a virgin and preacher who opposed the Ghibellines. At eight, she received a vision of the Virgin Mary and began preaching in support of the pope. Exiled to protect her from Ghibelline plots, she later predicted the death of Emperor Frederick II. Although she sought entry into the Poor Clare convent, she was refused due to lack of a dowry. Rose died at seventeen, and Pope Alexander IV ensured her burial in the convent. She was canonized in 1457. St. Rose of Viterbo Time Period: 1234-1252 Feast Day: September 4 Title/Attributes: Virgin, Franciscan Location of Relic: Back Right Reliquary - Left Section Type of Relic: Bones St. Rose of Viterbo was a virgin and preacher against the Ghibellines. She was Born in Viterbo, Italy in 1234 to poor parents. She received a vision of the Virgin Mary at the age of eight and displayed profound spiritual gifts. Within a short time, she took to preaching in the streets in support of the pope against the Ghibellines (the anti-papal party that supported the cause of the Holy Roman Emperors in Italy), calling upon the Guelphs (the pro-papal party) to expel the enemies of the Holy See from the city. When the Ghibellines conspired to murder her, the podesta (chief ruler) of Viterbo had her exiled to save her life. After going to Soriano in 1250, she accurately predicted the imminent and entirely unexpected death of the avowed enemy of the popes, Emperor Frederick II. She desired entry into the Poor Clare convent of St. Mary of the Roses at Viterbo but was refused admission owing to the lack of a dowry. After her death on March 6 at the age of seventeen, Pope Alexander IV, by way of giving thanks for her support, ordered that she be buried in the convent. Rose was canonized in 1457. Next Item Previous Item

St. Marguerite D’Youville (1701–1771) was the first Canadian canonized as a saint and the foundress of the Sisters of Charity, known as the Grey Nuns. Born in Varennes, Canada, she married François D’Youville and had six children, though only two survived. After her husband’s death, she cared for the sick and poor while raising her sons, who later became priests. In 1755, she and her companions formally received their religious habit. Despite hardship, including the destruction of their hospital by fire, she remained steadfast in faith. Marguerite’s legacy is one of compassion, resilience, and deep Christian charity. St. Marguerite d'Youville Time Period: 1701-1777 Feast Day: April 11 Title/Attributes: Widow, Mother, Foundress Location of Relic: Back Right Reliquary - Center Section Type of Relic: Body St. Marguerite D’Youville was the foundress of the Sisters of Charity and the first Canadian to be canonized a Saint. She was born in Varennes, Canada on October 15, 1701 to Christopher an Renee de Varennes Dufrost de Lajemmerais. Her brother was La Vérendrye, the famed explorer who discovered the Rocky Mountains. In 1722, she married Francois D’Youville and bore him six children, four of whom died young. Francois was himself engaged in the illegal liquor trade and died in 1730. While working and raising her remaining sons, who became priests, she administered a local hospital and gathered companions to form a new congregation designed to offer the people of Quebec medical care imbued with Christian charity. The women lived in a small house, and in June of 1753 received permission to incorporate their activities. On August 25, 1755, Marguerite and her companions received a gray habit (The rule of the Sisters of Charity, called the Grey Nuns, had been approved years before.) In 1747, Marguerite was given charge of General Hospital in Montreal, called the Hotel-Dieu. When the hospital was destroyed by a fire in 1766, Margaret knelt in the ashes to sing the Te Deum, accepting the terrible loss with religious calm. She died on December 23, 1771 in Montreal. Next Item Previous Item

Chapdelaine was born in La Rochelle-Normande, France, and became a priest in 1843. He joined the Paris Foreign Missions in 1851 and went to China’s Guangxi province in 1852. Due to the Taiping Rebellion, foreigners were forbidden, but Chapdelaine ministered to local Catholics. After brief imprisonment and multiple threats, he returned to Guangxi in 1855. On February 25, 1856, he was arrested and accused of inciting insurrection. He refused to pay a bribe and was subjected to brutal cage torture, where he suffered severe beatings and a slow death from suffocation in a hanging iron cage. St. Auguste Chapdelaine Time Period: 1814-1856 Feast Day: February 27 Title/Attributes: Martyr Location of Relic: Back Left Reliquary - Center Section Type of Relic: Piece of habit/clothing Chapdelaine was born on a farm in La Rochelle-Normande, France. By the age of twenty, he had entered the seminary at Coutances. He was ordained a priest for the diocese of Coutances in 1843 and in 1851 joined the Institute of Foreign Missions in Paris. He left from Antwerp in April 1852 to join the Catholic mission in the Guangxi province of China. The Taiping Rebellion led to suspicion of Christians, and foreigners were forbidden to enter the area. After a stay in Guangzhou, he moved to Guiyang, capital of the Guizhou province, in the spring of 1854. In December, he went, together with Lu Tingmei, to Yaoshan village, Xilin County of Guangxi, where he met the local Catholic community of around 300 people. He celebrated his first mass there on 8 December 1854. He was arrested and thrown into the Xilin county prison ten days after his arrival and was released after sixteen or eighteen days of captivity. Following personal threats, Chapdelaine returned to Guizhou in early 1855, and came back to Guangxi in December of the same year. He was denounced on February 22, 1856, by Bai San, a relative of a new convert, while the local tribunal was on holiday. He was arrested in Yaoshan, together with other Chinese Catholics, by orders of Zhang Mingfeng, the new local mandarin on 25 February 1856. Chapdelaine was accused of stirring up insurrection and refused to pay a bribe. Condemned to cage torture (zhanlong), he was first beaten one hundred times on the cheek by a leather thong, which caused his teeth to fly out, his face mutilated, and his jaw lacerated. He was locked into a small iron cage, which was hung at the gate of the jail. The planks he stood on were gradually removed, placing a strain in the muscles of the neck, and leading to a slow and painful death from suffocation. (https://www.catholic.org/saints/) Next Item Previous Item