‘I ask not only on behalf of these but also on behalf of those who will believe in me through their word, that they may all be one. As you, Father, are in me and I am in you, may they also be in us, so that the world may believe that you have sent me. The glory that you have given me I have given them, so that they may be one, as we are one, I in them and you in me, that they may become completely one, so that the world may know that you have sent me and have loved them even as you have loved me. 

-John 17: 20-23

Today is the day the Church recognizes Zenaida, Philonella, and Hermione - female physicians and martyrs of the early Church. Zenaida and Philonella were sisters who trained in medicine and established the first “free clinic” in a spring-fed cave outside Demetrias. Hermione (with her sister Eukhidia) established the first xenodukia (a small hospital/hostel where the poor could find food, shelter, rest, and healing). These women found their mission in the teachings of Jesus and sought to use His example to literally heal their world.  

What is especially beautiful about their stories is that they did what they could with what they had to the fullest of their abilities. They were curious about the world, so they learned more about it. They saw people in their community with a need, so they worked to fulfill those needs. They knew what was right, so they went out and did it. They are the archetypal Easter people.  

-Geoffrey Philabaum, Meditation

Dear Lord, thank you for Zenaida, Philonella, and Hermione! Help me to learn from their lives, their missions, and their faith. Help me to be the saint that is just me. May I, through my thoughts, words, and deeds, show the world Your love, Your grace, and Your glory.  Amen.

Musical Reflection

The Saint that is Just Me - Danielle Rose