St Andrew

    Being the brother of St Peter, he is responsible for letting Peter hear about Jesus. God bless St. Andrew! He, in some sense, probably being led by his Guardian Angel, was a messenger for Christ. Otherwise, who knows if Peter would have even ever known. Being fishermen, their time was mostly spent fishing at Sea and making sure they had a good enough catch to pay for taxes and provide for their families. No time was wasted. Peter probably argued with Andrew as it was going to be a detour to their day. Their job was tedious as it needed strength, patience and competency in reeling in that net and staying long hours. 

     St Andrew is one of my favorites. He was martyred on this day, November 30th, by being crucified on an X shaped cross. Sentenced to crucifixion as punishment for converting people away from Roman gods, Andrew said he felt unworthy to be crucified in the same manner as Jesus. He refused to renounce his faith and converted the Roman governor's wife, which led to a deeper anger in this Governor named "Aegeas". Because of Andrew's defiance and conversion efforts, the governor sentenced him to the cruelty of crucifixion in the city of Patras. Being crucified on the X shaped cross has become a symbol known as "St Andrews Cross". The Great and Powerful novena starts today, known as the "Christmas Novena". It goes, as said, 15 times a day until December 25th. It is miraculous and aids in the Advent of our hearts. 

     "Hail and blessed be the hour and the moment in which the Son of God was born of the most pure Virgin Mary, at midnight in Bethlehem, in the piercing cold. At this hour, vouch safe oh my God, to hear my prayers and grant my desires through the merits of Our Lord, Jesus Christ and His Most Blessed Mother.  Amen"

     Please say this novena that starts today, and you will see the magic of the true Christmas come alive in your heart. While including your petition in this sweet Novena, contemplate that beautiful night when Salvation was born.