September 19: Saint Januarius, Bishop and Martyr—Optional Memorial

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September 19: Saint Januarius, Bishop and Martyr—Optional Memorial

Died c. 304 Patron Saint of Naples, Italy and blood banks Invoked against volcanic eruptions Pre-Congregation canonization Liturgical Color: Red

Quote: Yes, true hope is only born from the Blood of Christ and blood poured out for him. There is blood which is the sign of death, but there is also blood that expresses love and life. The Blood of Jesus and the blood of the Martyrs, like that of your own beloved Patron St Januarius, is a source of new life. ~Pope Benedict XVI, 2007 homily in Naples

Prayer: Saint Januarius, you laid down your life for your faith after being arrested for charitably visiting your friends in prison. Your love is inspiring, as is your courage. Please pray for me, that I will find great inspiration in your witness and seek to imitate your selflessness and courage in my own life. Saint Januarius, pray for me. Jesus, I trust in You.

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Main: Saint Januarius Leaves the Furnace, by Jusepe de Ribera