Saint Gabriel of Our Lady of Sorrows

"Love Mary! She is lovable, faithful, and constant. She will never let Herself be outdone in love, but will ever remain supreme. If you are in danger, She will hasten to free you. If you are troubled, She will console you. If you are sick, She will bring you relief. If you are in need, She will help you. She does not look to see what kind of a person you have been. She simply comes to a heart that wants to love Her. She comes quickly and opens Her merciful heart to you, embraces you and consoles and serves you. She will even be at hand to accompany you on your trip to eternity."
- Saint Gabriel of Our Lady of Sorrows (1838 - 1862)

Today is the feast day of Saint Gabriel of Our Lady of Sorrows. Gabriel was born in 1838 in Italy, and was given the name of Francis at his baptism. When he was four years old, he lost his mother. Gabriel was educated by the Jesuits, and resolved to become a Jesuit priest. However, he was turned down when he applied at the age of 16. Soon after, his sister died of cholera and he was resolved to enter the religious life more than ever. He applied to the Passionists and was accepted, and was given the name of Gabriel of Our Lady of Sorrows when he became a novice. Gabriel left a deep impression upon his fellow Passionists. He was always cheerful, prayerful, considerate, obedient, faithful in the little things as well as big, very observant of the Passionist Rule, loved Our Lady very deeply, and did many penances. Everything looked very bright for Gabriel's future as a young priest. However, after only four years of being with the Passionists, Gabriel showed signs of tuberculosis. Gabriel patiently bore the disease until his death in 1862 at the age of 24. He was canonized in 1920.

Saint Gabriel of Our Lady of Sorrows, pray for us!

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Picture Of And Information About Saint Gabriel Taken From:

http://www.americancatholic.org/features/saintofday/

http://liturgialatina.blogspot.com/2011/02/27th-february-st-gabriel-of-our-lady-of.html