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NOVEMBER 22 Saturday-Saint Cecilia, Virgin and Martyr
Here’s your blog-ready guide for the next pilgrimage week:
🎓 University Faith
Traditions – Salamanca, Spain
Dates: November 23–29, 2025
Theme: Wisdom, Dialogue, and Enduring Light
Salamanca is a city where faith and reason have flourished
side by side for centuries. Founded in 1218, the University of Salamanca became a
beacon of theological, legal, and philosophical inquiry—shaped by Dominican
scholars, cathedral schools, and civic debate. This week invites pilgrims to
walk the cloisters, climb the towers, and reflect on the legacy of spiritual
scholarship.
🗓️ Daily Itinerary &
Symbolic Acts
Nov 23: Arrival & Cathedral Wisdom
·
🕍 Symbolic Act: “Twin
Foundations”
Begin with Mass at the New
Cathedral and walk through the Old Cathedral,
praying for continuity between tradition and renewal.
·
🛏️ Stay: Hotel
Hospes Palacio de San Esteban or Room Mate Vega
Nov 24: Scholastic Roots
·
🕊️ Symbolic Act:
“Courtyard of Contemplation”
Visit the Escuelas
Menores and pause beneath the “Sky of Salamanca” mural. Pray for
educators and students.
·
Optional: Spot the frog
of Salamanca on the university façade—a symbol of perseverance.
Nov 25: Dominican Dialogue
·
🕍 Symbolic Act:
“Justice and Mercy”
Visit the Convent of San
Esteban, where Dominicans debated the rights of indigenous peoples.
Pray for ethical clarity in global discourse.
Nov 26: Feminine Cloister
·
🏡 Symbolic Act:
“Wisdom of the Sisters”
Visit the Convent
of Las Dueñas and reflect on monastic hospitality and feminine
theological insight.
Nov 27: Signs of Endurance
·
🐸 Symbolic Act: “Frog
of Perseverance”
Return to the university façade and pray for endurance in study, vocation, and
civic witness.
Nov 28: Benediction & Perspective
·
🕊️ Symbolic Act:
“Tower of Light”
Climb the Ieronimus Tower for
panoramic views. Offer a final blessing for spiritual perspective and civic
clarity.
Nov 29: University of Light
·
🎓 Symbolic Act: “Seal
of Gratitude”
Walk the University of Salamanca
campus and seal your week with gratitude for the legacy of faith and reason.
💶 Cost Breakdown (Per
Person)
|
Category |
Budget (USD) |
Mid-Range (USD) |
|
Lodging (6 nights) |
$180–$300 |
$360–$600 |
|
Meals |
$90–$150 |
$180–$300 |
|
Transport |
$30–$60 |
$60–$120 |
|
Sightseeing & Tips |
$30–$60 |
$60–$120 |
|
Total Estimate |
$330–$570 |
$660–$1,140 |
Would you like a ritual meal titled “The Supper of Faith
and Reason” to accompany this week? I can pair each day with a symbolic
dish and reflection.
Tobit, Chapter 4, Verse 21
Tobit is advising his son to be a mensch. A person with high integrity and honesty.
The other day, while going through my personal
notes, I ran across some records I had taken on a lecture on “life’s most
important learning’s” I would like to share.
·
Be a Mensch.
·
Never stop learning.
·
Love and be loved.
·
Don’t be afraid to take risks.
·
Set the example.
·
Take care of your health.
·
Take care of your family.
·
Watch your mouth.
·
One person can make a difference.
·
Life is a test/challenge; live it!
In other words, a mensch has Self-control which
is the ability to control one's emotions, behavior, and desires in the face of
external demands in order to function in society. (Matt DeLisi)
A great example of a man who conquered
self-control is George Washington. Washington was a self-made man who learned
to govern himself before he governed our great country. Washington was a
passionate man by nature, yet he was famous for his reserve and graciousness to
others. Washington worked on himself very hard to control his temper and to not
be sensitive to criticism. Washington disciplined his passionate nature with
iron will and self-control. Washington wrote, “Every action done in company
ought to be with some sign of respect, to those that are present” and, “Labor
to keep alive in your breast the little spark of celestial fire called
conscience.” He strove to be a man of unquestionable dignity and manners. He
was modest and wore clothes that were fine and neat but never showy. He was
consciously groomed and was seldom discourteous to anyone, of higher or lower
station in life. He knew his strengths as well as his weaknesses; there was no
hubris in him. He understood the nature of his countrymen as well as he
understood his own. He knew we are all flawed, that we must always be alert to
the danger of ungoverned appetites and must strive to control and improve our
nature. And through the constant application of his self-control, he became, in
fact, the father of our country. He imprinted his character on this
nation, and in that sense, we are all his descendants, a people famous for our
constant struggle to improve. We are never so removed from the failings of our
nature that we cannot stand more improvement, but neither are we so removed
from Washington’s magnificent example that we dare not dream we can achieve it.[1]
A person with self-control is a person of
courage. Courage is the ability and willingness to confront fear, pain, danger,
uncertainty, or intimidation. Physical courage is courage in the face of
physical pain, hardship, death, or threat of death, while moral courage is the
ability to act rightly in the face of popular opposition, shame, scandal, or
discouragement.
St. Cecilia[2]
Her
martyrdom probably occurred during the reign of Emperor Alexander Severus,
about the year 230. In 1599 her grave was opened, and her body found in a
coffin of cypress wood. It lay incorrupt, as if she had just breathed forth her
soul. Since the Middle Ages, Cecilia has been honored as patroness of Church
music. Cecilia led a life of prayer and meditation and had vowed lifelong
virginity, but a youth by the name of Valerian, relying upon the approval of
her parents, hoped to marry her. When the wedding night arrived, she confided
to Valerian, "There is a secret, Valerian, I wish to tell you. I have as a
lover an angel of God who jealously guards my body." Valerian promised to
believe in Christ if he would be enabled to see that angel. Cecilia explained
how such was impossible without
baptism, and Valerian consented to be baptized. After he was baptized by Pope
Urban and had returned "He found Cecilia in her little room lost in
prayer, and next to her the angel of the Lord was standing. When Valerian saw
the angel, he was seized with great terror." The angel handed to them a
bouquet of fiery red roses and snow-white lilies as a reward for Cecilia's love
of chastity, a bouquet that would not wither, yet would be visible only to
those who love chastity. As a further favor Valerian besought the conversion of
his brother Tiburtius. Upon arriving to congratulate the newlyweds, Tiburtius
was astounded by the unspeakably beautiful roses and lilies. As soon as he was
informed regarding their origin, he too asked for the waters of baptism.
"St. Cecilia said to Tiburtius: Today I acknowledge you as a
brother-in-law, because the love of God has made you despise the idols. Just as
the love of God gave me your brother as a spouse, so it has given you to me as
a brother in-law."
When
Almachius, the prefect, heard of the conversions, he ordered Maximus, his
officer, to arrest and imprison all of them. Before being put to death, they
instructed Maximus and his family, and baptized them during the night preceding
execution. At dawn Cecilia roused the two brothers to struggle heroically for
Christ, as the glow of morning disappeared, Cecilia called: "Arise, soldiers of Christ, throw away
the works of darkness and put on the armor of light." Cecilia pursued
her victory as the soldiers willingly listened, "We believe that Christ is
the true Son of God, who has chosen such a servant." Led before the
prefect, she professed her faith in Christ, "We profess His holy Name and
we will not deny Him."
In
order to avoid further show, the prefect commanded her to be suffocated in the
baths. She remained unharmed and prayed, "I thank You, Father of my Lord
Jesus Christ that through Your Son the fire was extinguished at my side."
Beheading was next in order. The executioner made three attempts (the law
prohibited more) and let her lie in her blood. She lived for three days,
encouraging the poor and dedicating her home into a church.
33 days to
Christmas-Start the 33 days to Eucharistic Glory[3]
Overview: At
critical times throughout Salvation History, God's people have been invited to
consecrate themselves. We are at one of those critical times in history, and
consecrate ourselves, our families, our country, and indeed, the whole world to
the Eucharist may make all the difference.
33 Days to
Eucharistic Glory is the first ever Eucharistic Consecration. This
unprecedented spiritual resource presents profound truths, astonishing
historical facts, powerful practical examples, a daily virtue to adopt,
extraordinary prayers, and inspiring stories—all in an easy-to-follow daily
format.
Life is a
pilgrimage. It is a sacred journey toward our eternal home with God. Learn what
it means to be a pilgrim in a world that’s constantly trying to reduce you to a
tourist and consumer. Journey with Mother Teresa, John Paul II, Thérèse of
Lisieux, Maximilian Kolbe, Thomas Aquinas, Sister Faustina, the Children of
Fatima, and Mary the Mother of God to experience Jesus in the Eucharist like
never before.
Prepare yourself
for an explosion of grace in your life. Grace is the assistance God gives us to
do what is good, true, noble, and right. And there is no better way to receive
God's grace than through the Eucharist. Over the next thirty-three days you will
learn how these great saints and others lived in Eucharistic Glory.
This
extraordinary spiritual guide will forever change the way you spend time with
Jesus in the Eucharist.
Want to start a
small group? Download our 33 Days to Eucharistic Glory Study Guide
Day 1
On
this first day seek to give your entire mind to God through the virtue of
Humility.
Copilot:
Incorporating Humility into Your Spiritual Practice
Starting with humility sets a strong foundation for any
spiritual journey. Here are some ways you can bring humility into your daily
life and spiritual practices:
Reflective Practices
- Daily
Reflection: Spend a few minutes each day reflecting on your
actions, thoughts, and feelings. Acknowledge both your strengths and
weaknesses.
- Prayer or
Meditation: Use this time to seek guidance and express gratitude
for the support and wisdom you receive.
- Journaling: Write about
moments where you practiced humility and areas where you could improve.
This can help you track your progress and stay mindful.
Actions of Humility
- Service to
Others: Engage in acts of service and kindness without
expecting anything in return. This could be volunteering, helping a
neighbor, or even small daily acts of kindness.
- Listening
More: Make a conscious effort to listen to others without
interrupting or preparing your response. Truly understanding others’
perspectives can deepen your empathy.
- Admitting
Faults: When you make a mistake, acknowledge it openly and
seek to make amends. This can be difficult but is a powerful act of
humility.
Mindful Living
- Simple
Living: Focus on what you need rather than what you want. This
could mean decluttering your space, simplifying your routines, or
practicing contentment with what you have.
- Gratitude: Regularly
express gratitude for the small and large blessings in your life. This
helps shift your focus from what’s lacking to what’s abundant.
- Learning
from Others: Approach every person and situation as a learning
opportunity. Be open to the lessons they offer, whether they’re pleasant
or challenging.
Catechism of the Catholic Church
PART TWO: THE CELEBRATION OF THE CHRISTIAN MYSTERY
SECTION ONE-THE
SACRAMENTAL ECONOMY
CHAPTER
TWO-THE SACRAMENTAL CELEBRATION OF THE PASCHAL MYSTERY
Article 1-CELEBRATING THE
CHURCH'S LITURGY
Day
163
IN BRIEF
1187 The liturgy is the work of the
whole Christ, head and body. Our high priest celebrates it unceasingly in the
heavenly liturgy, with the holy Mother of God, the apostles, all the saints,
and the multitude of those who have already entered the kingdom.
1188 In a liturgical celebration, the
whole assembly is leitourgos, each member according to his own function. the
baptismal priesthood is that of the whole Body of Christ. But some of the
faithful are ordained through the sacrament of Holy Orders to represent Christ
as head of the Body.
1189 The liturgical celebration
involves signs and symbols relating to creation (candles, water, fire), human
life (washing, anointing, breaking bread) and the history of salvation (the
rites of the Passover). Integrated into the world of faith and taken up by the
power of the Holy Spirit, these cosmic elements, human rituals, and gestures of
remembrance of God become bearers of the saving and sanctifying action of
Christ.
1190 The Liturgy of the Word is an
integral part of the celebration. the meaning of the celebration is expressed
by the Word of God which is proclaimed and by the response of faith to it.
1191 Song and music are closely
connected with the liturgical action. the criteria for their proper use are the
beauty expressive of prayer, the unanimous participation of the assembly, and
the sacred character of the celebration.
1192 Sacred images in our churches and
homes are intended to awaken and nourish our faith in the mystery of Christ.
Through the icon of Christ and his works of salvation, it is he whom we adore.
Through sacred images of the holy Mother of God, of the angels and of the
saints, we venerate the persons represented.
1193 Sunday, the "Lord's
Day," is the principal day for the celebration of the Eucharist because it
is the day of the Resurrection. It is the pre-eminent day of the liturgical
assembly, the day of the Christian family, and the day of joy and rest from
work. Sunday is "the foundation and kernel of the whole liturgical
year" (SC 106).
1194 The Church, "in the course of
the year, . . . unfolds the whole mystery of Christ from his Incarnation and
Nativity through his Ascension, to Pentecost and the expectation of the blessed
hope of the coming of the Lord" (SC 102 # 2).
1195 By keeping the memorials of the
saints - first of all the holy Mother of God, then the apostles, the martyrs,
and other saints - on fixed days of the liturgical year, the Church on earth
shows that she is united with the liturgy of heaven. She gives glory to Christ
for having accomplished his salvation in his glorified members; their example
encourages her on her way to the Father.
1196 The faithful who celebrate the
Liturgy of the Hours are united to Christ our high priest, by the prayer of the
Psalms, meditation on the Word of God, and canticles and blessings, in order to
be joined with his unceasing and universal prayer that gives glory to the
Father and implores the gift of the Holy Spirit on the whole world.
1197 Christ is the true temple of God,
"the place where his glory dwells"; by the grace of God, Christians
also become the temples of the Holy Spirit, living stones out of which the
Church is built.
1198 In its earthly state the Church
needs places where the community can gather together. Our visible churches,
holy places, are images of the holy city, the heavenly Jerusalem, toward which
we are making our way on pilgrimage.
1199 It is in these churches that the
Church celebrates public worship to the glory of the Holy Trinity, hears the
word of God and sings his praise, lifts up her prayer, and offers the sacrifice
of Christ sacramentally present in the midst of the assembly. These churches
are also places of recollection and personal prayer.
Fitness
Friday
In the movie “Christmas.” we witnessed the day
“Ralphie” pronounced the big F word and as a result his mother in loving
correction immediately inserted a bar of soap in “Ralphie’s” nasty mouth. Today
let us look at our own nasty mouths. Caring for our teeth may improve your
fitness more than we realize.
Clean Mouth-Ralphie![4]
Taking
care of your teeth is important for all ages, but it’s especially important for
older adults who may be at greater risk of oral health problems. Adults 65 and
older are at an increased risk for oral cancer, gum disease and
cavities. Luckily, it’s never too late to start taking better care of your
teeth. With proper care, you can maintain — or even improve — your oral health
as you age. Here are six things that help improve senior oral hygiene.
·
Cut Out Bad Habits-There are dozens of reasons
to quit smoking or chewing tobacco, and the health of your entire mouth is no
exception. If you’re currently using tobacco products, talk to your doctor
about healthy methods for quitting. And as you likely remember from childhood,
sugary foods like candy and soda can increase your risk for cavities.
Committing to healthy
eating isn’t just good for your heart and waistline — it’s great for
your teeth, too.
·
Increase Your Fluoride Intake-Many
municipalities have fluoride added to their drinking water, but you can also
incorporate a fluoride toothpaste or fluoride rinse into your daily care
routine, too. If necessary, you can even talk to your dentist about regular
fluoride treatments.
·
Be Diligent About Your Teeth Cleaning Routine-It
isn’t enough to simply brush your teeth twice a day, every day. Additionally,
you should floss at least once per day and consider rinsing with an
antibacterial mouthwash. Make sure to replace your toothbrush or brush head
every three months.
·
If You Have Dentures, Clean Them
Daily-Denture-wearers may have a different routine, but good oral hygiene is
still a priority. Follow your dentist’s instructions for keeping your dentures
clean so the rest of your mouth also stays clean and healthy.
·
Keep Your Mouth Hydrated-If you’re prescribed a
medication that causes dry mouth, make sure you’re taking extra steps to keep
your mouth hydrated. Drink lots of water and switch to sugar-free gum, if
you’re a gum chewer. (Bonus: Sugar-free gum is better for your teeth, too!)
·
Go to the Dentist-regular checkups with your primary care
physician, going to the dentist is the single best thing you can do
for your oral health. Not only can your dentist give your teeth a good
cleaning, but they’ll also be able to identify oral health problems before they
progress and give you tips for taking care of your teeth. While the minimum
recommendation is once per year, many older adults prefer to see their dentist
every six months just to make sure everything is going well.
Corner-Be Humane-Humane Society est. 1954
·
How to celebrate Nov 22nd
o
Why not start by taking care of your pearly
whites in honor of the unofficial National Flossing Day? Get that floss out and
give your teeth some love.
o
After freshening up your smile, why not whip up
a tasty cranberry relish to celebrate National Cranberry Relish Day? It’s a
simple and delicious dish that you can enjoy solo or share with friends.
o
Next, consider giving back to those who can’t
speak for themselves on Humane Society Anniversary Day. Volunteer at a local
animal shelter or simply donate to help our furry friends.
o Feeling
a bit restless? Go for a ride on Go For A Ride Day! Hop on a bike, take a
scenic drive, or even go for a leisurely walk around your neighborhood. Enjoy
the fresh air and take in the sights around you.
·
Novena
for the Twenty-fifth Day of every Month
o
This can be done up to 9 days before the 25th
§
I was born on the 24th I think I will
do it then.
Today is my grandson Philip Matthew’s birthday
age Three. Philip means “friend of horses” and Matthew “gift of God”. A Charger
is a war horse. I pray God will give Philip the grace to be a
“Stallion of Love the Gift of God”.
Please pray for his and his father’s intentions
Christopher Gabriel “Bearer of Christ with the strength of God”
May our King make use of them! El Cristo Rey!
Daily Devotions
·
Unite in
the work of the Porters of St. Joseph by joining them in fasting: Today's Fast: Increase in Religious and consecrated life.
·
Go to
Mass
·
Rosary
[1] McCain, John; Salter, Mark
(2005-10-25). Character Is Destiny.
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