St. Lawrence of Brindisi, Apostolic Doctor – Jul 21 – Homily – Fr John Lawrence

 

Fr John Lawrence gives the homily at Bloomington, IN, on Jul 21, 2023, on the life of St. Lawrence of Brindisi, a holy and learned Capuchin Franciscan whose fervent but charitable preaching did much to refute error. He also did much to improve political and Church affairs.

St. Lawrence of Brindisi was born July 22nd, 1559, lost his parents early and was educated by Conventual Franciscans. Despite intending to join them, he was drawn to the Capuchin order after moving to Venice. He overcame his frail health through prayer to Our Lady and was accepted into the order. An exceptionally gifted student, St. Lawrence could quote from any chapter and verse of the Vulgate during his novitiate. Ordained as a priest in 1582, his eloquence in preaching led him to be assigned preaching roles even as a deacon. He became known as the Apostolic Doctor due to his main work being a preacher.

His sermons, aimed at defending the Catholic faith against the Protestants, were extensive, filling 12 volumes in English translation, and he was also assigned to preach to the Jews. His preaching approach was characterized by his charity and knowledge, which endeared him to his listeners. He also served in various leadership roles within the Capuchin order and was even elected as provincial superior for Switzerland in 1598.

St. Lawrence was sent to Austria, Germany, and Bohemia to expand the Capuchin order and defend the Catholic faith. His roles also included founding priories, strengthening the faith of Catholics, and reconciling many Protestants to the Church. In 1601, he served as the head chaplain for the imperial troops that defeated the Turks at Alba Regia in Hungary. His bravery and miracles made him renowned throughout Europe. In 1602, he was elected as the superior general of the Capuchin order.

Despite his administrative duties, St. Lawrence remained committed to his faith, often going to great lengths to participate in Mass. His preaching was also highly influential, swaying policy decisions among members of the court and ambassadors. St. Lawrence also played an instrumental role in supporting the Catholic League during times of persecution from Protestants.

Returning to Italy, St. Lawrence demonstrated God-given power over demons and diseases. Despite the constant attention, he managed to spend much of his time in deep prayer, emulating Christ. In 1618, while on his way to Brindisi, he was enlisted by the Neapolitan nobility to represent them before King Philip III of Spain to protest against the harsh rule of the Spanish Viceroy. Despite attempts on his life, he successfully reached the King in Lisbon, but fell ill and died on his 60th birthday, July 22, 1619.

St. Lawrence's works, published after scholars deciphered his personal abbreviations, led to him being named a Doctor of the Church in 1959. He is particularly known for his sermons on Our Lady, highlighting her privileges extensively from Scripture.

00:00 – Introduction
00:10 – Early Life of Saint Lawrence and His Journey to Religious Calling
01:00 – Studies, Achievements, and Transition to Capuchin Order
01:39 – Preaching Efforts and Defending Catholic Faith
02:18 – Interactions with Jews and His Erudition
02:56 –Leadership Roles in Capuchin Order and Expansion Efforts
03:14 – Missionary Work in Austria, Germany, and Bohemia, and Relationship with Protestants
03:59 – Military Experience and Miracles on Battlefield
04:46 – Election as Superior General and Extensive Travels
05:47 – Later Life: His Influence, Policy Advice, and Private Masses
06:12 – Diplomatic Efforts during Religious Conflicts
06:48 – Return to Italy, Healing Powers, and Deep Commitment to Prayer
07:23 – Hope to Return to Brindisi, Death in Spain

Ave Maria!

Mass: St. Lawrence of Brindisi - Feast - http://www.catholic.org/saints/saint.php?saint_id=442
Readings:
1st: 2co 5:14-21
Resp: psa 67:2, 3, 7-8
Gsp: luk 9:1-6

More on the Readings: https://airmaria.com/r?m=680

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