St. Laurence of Brindisi

On July 21, 2025, the Catholic Church commemorates St. Laurence of Brindisi, a remarkable figure in the history of the Church, who was a Capuchin Franciscan, a theologian, and a preacher known for his mission work and deep understanding of Scripture. Celebrated in the Time after Pentecost, this feast falls within a liturgical season characterized by the Church's reflection on the outpouring of the Holy Spirit and the call to live out the teachings of Christ in our daily lives, reminding us of the continuity and growth of the Church as she evangelizes and nurtures the faithful.

The readings for this day invite families to delve into the themes of wisdom, discipleship, and the call to holiness. The Epistle from St. Paul encourages us to be steadfast in preaching the Gospel, a charge that resonates with the mission of families to witness Christ's love through their actions and words. Meanwhile, the Gospel passage from Matthew emphasizes the call to be "the salt of the earth," challenging families to reflect on how they can preserve and enhance the goodness of God in their homes and communities. As they gather for prayer and Mass, families are encouraged to seek the intercession of St. Laurence and St. Praxedis, contemplating how their lives can mirror the virtues of these saints in their everyday interactions.

Saint Lawrence of Brindisi: A Beacon of Faith and Learning

Historical Background and Life Story: Saint Lawrence of Brindisi was born Giovanni Battista de Rossi in 1559 in Brindisi, Italy. He joined the Capuchin Franciscan Order at a young age and took the name Lawrence. Known for his extraordinary intelligence and deep spirituality, he became a renowned preacher and diplomat, traveling extensively throughout Europe to promote peace and the Catholic faith during a tumultuous time in Church history.

Main Virtues and Spiritual Contributions: Saint Lawrence was celebrated for his profound love of Scripture and his dedication to prayer, embodying the virtues of humility and charity. His ability to articulate complex theological concepts in a way that was accessible to all made him a beloved teacher and spiritual guide, inspiring many to deepen their understanding of the faith.

Canonization and Significance to the Church: Canonized by Pope Benedict XIII in 1881, Saint Lawrence was declared a Doctor of the Church in recognition of his significant contributions to Catholic theology and preaching. His teachings continue to inspire the faithful, particularly in the areas of ecumenism and devotion to the Eucharist.

Lessons for Catholic Families Today: Families today can learn from Saint Lawrence's commitment to education and his example of living out the Gospel in daily life. By fostering a love for Scripture and encouraging open discussions about faith, families can cultivate a deeper spiritual connection and a shared mission of love and service in their communities.

Closing Prayer for Intercession: Dear Saint Lawrence of Brindisi, intercede for us as we strive to live our faith boldly and share God's love with those around us. May we follow your example of learning and charity in our own families. Amen.

In today’s celebration of St. Laurence of Brindisi, we encounter profound themes of discipleship and the call to holiness in both the Gospel and the Epistle readings. Jesus teaches us in Matthew 5:13-19 that we are to be "the salt of the earth" and "the light of the world." This call to shine brightly in the world connects beautifully with the teaching of the Church on our mission as baptized Christians. The Catechism of the Catholic Church emphasizes this mission in CCC 897, stating that every member of the Church is called to share in Christ's mission, which includes evangelization. Families can reflect on how they fulfill this calling by being examples of Christ’s love and goodness in their daily lives.

St. Paul’s exhortation in 2 Timothy 4:1-8 to "preach the word" and remain steadfast in faith resonates with the Church's teaching on the importance of living out our faith actively. CCC 2044 reminds us that God's commandments guide our actions and help us to fulfill our vocation as disciples. This is particularly relevant for families as they strive to live according to these teachings, encouraging one another to uphold virtues such as kindness, patience, and charity. By fostering an environment where faith is discussed and practiced, families can become a beacon of light in their communities.

Practical applications for Catholic families include setting aside time for family discussions about faith, perhaps around the dinner table, where they can explore how to be "salt" and "light" in their daily interactions. Families might also consider participating in community service together as a way to live out the Gospel's call to good works. By doing so, they not only strengthen their own faith but also serve as a witness to others, fulfilling the call to evangelization in a tangible way. As they reflect on the life of St. Laurence, families can ask for his intercession to help them embody the virtues of faithfulness and zeal in their own lives.