In a mountainous region of Peru a small procession winds through a dirt road under a blanket of rain. On the shores of Brazil, at exactly midnight, millions toss flowers into the tides of the ocean. In New Orleans a parade marches through the city, stepping to the sounds of a jazz band. In Italy, a group of children hang colorful ornaments in the village square. These events share a common thread and that is the celebration of Saints. Over one billion people worldwide observe the lives of these extraordinary individuals. Do you have any idea how hard it is to be a saint? Of course the answer all depends on who is asked. Not only does every religion have its own unique interpretation but most people have their own personal concept. No matter the denomination, all revere them for their good deeds and sacrifices. In turn, their messages and life stories have been passed down from generation to generation for all to cherish. So what sets these people apart from the rest of us? Why are they celebrated the world over? How do they affect our lives today?
In this series, the viewer travels on a global expedition to seek out the answers. Each episode begins with an in–depth look at the feast of a patron saint in a particular place, anywhere in the world. The feast invites the viewer to join and discover unique cultural traditions, colorful costumes, dances, specialty foods and businesses that exist solely for the celebration. The history of the patron saint and the story of the feast are explained by noted historians, members of the Church and local practitioners. Through the use of re–enactments, key moments in the life of the saint are visualized; most importantly, their moments of transformation from ordinary to extraordinary. Using examples such as art, literature, architecture and relics, we come to a better understanding of these holy people. At the close of each episode we analyze the connection between the Saint depicted and modern social issues. Their lasting legacy remains a sign of hope and encouragement for countless people, young and old alike. Today, we recognize many schools, international humanitarian organizations and theories of science and technology that owe their beginnings to these individuals.
The Catholic Church has named many Saints over the centuries and whatever we may choose to call them this fact remains: they are symbols of inspiration to believers and non–believers alike and their stories should be told.
Mary The Blessed Virgin
The mother of Jesus
Feast day: September 8
Our series begins with the most famous woman in history. Sainthood is only a fraction of her legacy as her impact on people around the world has been limitless.
After the Catholic and Orthodox churches, Mary is highly regarded by Protestants and Muslims. She has a distinguished and honored position amongst women in the Qur'an; she is the only woman directly named in the book.
In all the religions that acknowledge and venerate her, the Virgin Mary represents hope for those in need. In honor of her and the suffering she endured, the Catholic Church nominated her, among other things, Mary, the Queen of Peace, patron saint of civilian war victims.
This episode explores the relationship between present day mothers of soldiers/war victims and the Blessed Mother.
- The history of Martyrdom
- Difference between martyrs and extremists
Saint Augustine of Hippo
Patron of Brewers – Bishop and Doctor – Founded the Augustine Order
Feast day: August 28
One of the originators of Western Christianity, and arguably the greatest writer of his time, St. Augustine left behind 5,000,000 words that survive today. He wrote of such fascinating topics as self discovery, memory, and the proof of existence, although his inspiration and knowledge came after spending half of his life partying, womanizing, and substance abuse. The second half of his life was devoted to theology, charity, and being a devout Catholic.
Modern day society is unfortunately very familiar with the lifestyle St. Augustine led before his conversion. The transformation he made is an inspiration to anyone who longs to break a certain vice or habit.
- Philosophy
- Substance abuse & recovery
- Born again Christianity
Saint Isidore of Seville
Patron of Computers and for the Internet
Feast day: April 4
Although he became one of the most learned men of his age, as a boy he despised his lessons. Later known as "the schoolmaster of the middle ages", he wrote a twenty volume encyclopedia of everything that was known in 7th century Europe, including a summary of all worldly events since creation.
So, how does Saint Isidore of Seville become the patron saint for the Internet? Isidore was chosen by a Catholic order of communication for the work he accomplished in the seventh century. His written documentation of everything that had existed until his time resembled what we today call a "database". He also began a very modern system of thought, presently known as "flashes". His work was complete and coherent, just like a computer program!
- Information technology
- Computers
- Government monitoring
Saint Sebastian
Patron of soldiers, plague, arrows and athletes
Feast day: January 20
His legacy is well known to many and the iconography associated with him is no stranger to pop culture. Having been raised with strong Christian ethics, legend says he became a soldier in order to advise and protect other martyrs fighting for the same cause. He joined the Army at a time when Christians were being persecuted and was forced to keep his faith a secret. Eventually his secret was revealed and the emperor ordered Sebastian to be shot by archers.
Why has Sebastian served as the subject for many painters? The depiction of saintly figures in painting served as a means for expressing piety importance was given to content rather than form. During the Renaissance, artistic interests became more and more linked to technique and spirit. Saint Sebastian was, aside from Christ on the Cross, the only opportunity for a painter living in a Christian society to exercise his or her skill in painting a male nude.
- Religious Art and iconology
- Representation of saints in pop culture
- Modern day martyrdom through war
Don Bosco
Patron of Catholic publishers, editors, and young apprentices
Father and Teacher of Youth
Feast day: January 31
A Catholic priest and recognized educator, St. John Bosco succeeded in putting in practice teaching methods based on love rather than punishment.
Brought up in severe poverty, Don Bosco knew at a young age what he wanted to do with his life. It all began with one troubled and lost boy who he took under his wing. One boy turned into two, and two turned into 400 within the first few years. Today his movement, known as the Salesian Society, is the third largest religious order in the world with over 40,000 Salesian priests, brothers, sisters, and lay people working in 120 countries.
- Children of poverty and troubled youth
- Inner city schools and violence
- Education towards a better way of life
Saint Josemaria Escriva de Balaguer
Founder of Opus Dei
Feast day: January 9
Opus Dei, Latin for "Work of God", is an institution founded with the vision of making the world a better place through spreading the beliefs of the Catholic Church. Since inception, its members have helped thousands of people through various forms of charity. At St. Escriva's canonization in 2002, Pope John Paul II nominated him the saint of ordinary life. In fact, the 80,000 members in 80 countries are everyday people who strive to be worthy of sainthood.
In 2005, members helped set up 608 social initiatives including schools and university residences, technical and agricultural training, business schools and hospitals.
Among the different types of membership, the Numeraries, or lay people, practice the most dedication. They are celibate members who usually live in special gender–segregated centers. Numeraries generally have normal careers and devote the bulk of their income to the organization.
- Charity
- Influence on businesses and politics
- Numeraries and different types of membership