Annals of Saint Joseph Volume 31-33 (Paperback)

This historic book may have numerous typos and missing text. Purchasers can download a free scanned copy of the original book (without typos) from the publisher. Not indexed. Not illustrated. 1919 Excerpt: ...poor along the road, who took him for a spy. The name of Cecilia on his lips, however, the name most familiar to every lover of Christ, dismissed all fear, and secured for Valerian admission to the Catacomb of St. Calixtus, where Pope Urban I. resided with his flock. The Holy Father recognized the design of God, and set himself to the task of converting this pagan. Before Valerian left the Catacomb, his heart was purified with the gift of faith. He returned to his spouse late after his departure, a new man, with the flower of Christianity blooming in his soul. He found St. Cecilia praying with an angel, the young man of whom she had spoken. Valerian was troubled no more. He took his place beside her, joined in her fervent prayers, during which the messenger of God crowned them both with roses. In a moment came Tiburtius, a-brother of Valerian, to offer his congratulations, but seeing the flowers whosb heavenly fragrance filled the room, was struck with profound amazement. He knew well that roses were then out of season. The scent of one of them was enough to arouse his curiosity, and he quickly inquired whence they came. The story, told by Valerian touched the heart of his brother, who immediately sought Pope Urban and embraced Christianity. Valerian and Tiburtius, well known throughout all Koman circles, could not keep their faith a secret for any length of time. As soon as they were proclaimed Christians, they were declared traitors, and beheaded, dying the glorious deaths of Christian martyrs. St. Cecilia astounded the stupid pagans when news spread that she too was a Christian. Betrayed into the hands of her enemies, she was condemned to die. She baffled the blood-thirsty per'secutors with her calmness and fortitude. They tried to stifle her to death, b...