January 19
Ignatius of Azevedo and thirty-nine companion martyrs (†1570)
Martyrs
Ignatius de Azevedo and thirty-nine Portuguese and Spanish Jesuits were heading as missionaries to Brazil when their ship was attacked near the Canary Islands.
Biography
They knew that the trip entailed danger, but they had prepared themselves with prayer, brotherhood and availability to announce the Gospel. Between July 15 and 16, 1570, they were murdered by Huguenot privateers because of their Catholic faith. Priests, brothers and young students faced martyrdom together, united around the image of the Virgin that Ignatius held.
Practical advice
Pray today in community for the missionaries and share with others an intention that helps you live the faith together.
Example of
FortitudeFaithfulnessSacrifice