Monday 29th July, Ss. Martha, Mary and Lazarus, welcomed Jesus as a family friend. Martha generously offered him hospitality, Mary listened attentively to his words and Lazarus promptly emerged from the tomb at the command of the One who humiliated death.
Wednesday 31st July, St. Ignatius of Loyola, priest 1491-1556, from the north of Spain, founded the Society of Jesus (the Jesuits). By the time of his death, the society had spread widely and had over one thousand members. His great theme was the service of God and God’s greater glory. The experience of his conversion led to his writing of the Spiritual Exercises.
Thursday 1st August, St. Alphonsus Liguori, bishop and doctor of the Church, 1696-1787, founder of the Redemptorist Congregation, taught much on moral theology and the spiritual life. He is remembered as a popular preacher and influential writer of theology.