Friday, March 9, 2007

Have you ever come across a St. Maureen?

Last weekend, my boyfriend was in a generous mood, and also bought me the DVD of "Millions", directed by Danny Boyle. It's a very uplifting movie, if you haven't seen it. It's about two little boys who find a lot of money, and the effect the money has on them, and their family. Saints are a major element of the story, and the main little boy, Damian, encounters several saints during the movie. His mother just died, so he asks them all if they've ever come across a St. Maureen.

Although I'm not religious, I do like the saints. I'm not really sure why. I think their lives are interesting, as is the whole concept of saints. Perhaps it's the idea of ordinary individuals achieving extraordinary things. Perhaps it's just that they're easier to relate to than a divine being. I don't know. I first saw this movie over the summer and got a saints book for my birthday, entitled Lives of the Saints by Richard P. McBrien. I don't think it's the sort of thing you read cover-to-cover, but I'm going to try for a little each day, since it's organized by day. Starting today.

Today is the feast day of Frances of Rome. She lived from 1384-1440 and devoted her life to the service of the poor, especially in hospitals. She had a number of visions during her life, became a nun, and is the patron saint of motorists and of widows. Also, of Dominic Savio, who died of tuberculosis when he was only 15, and is the patron saint of young boys and choirboys. Just thought you might like to know.