ALL SAINTS CELEBRATED IN MARCH
Saints celebrated on the 13th of March
BLESSED ERIC, PILGRIM
In 1415, a pilgrim from Denmark named Eric, clothed as a hermit, and described as a 'lover of poverty', arrived in the Italian city of Perugia (west of Assisi).
Upon receiving lodging in the pilgrim’s guest house known as the Hospital of Saint Susanna, he fell ill, and a few days later died.
It was at the moment of his death that the bells of a nearby church began to ring miraculously of their own accord. The city’s bishop together with all of his clergy were witnesses to this prodigy.
Although Eric had only spent a few days among the people of Perugia, he came to be venerated as a holy man in their midst. Miracles attributed to his intercession followed. His body was enshrined in a place of honour within the Church of Saint Susanna. 'Ex votos', objects symbolising favours received, given in gratitude, are to be seen over his shrine, which bears the inscription, "The body of Eric is here; his soul is before God." Traditionally Eric has been venerated on March 13.
PRAYER:
Grant, we beseech you, almighty God, that the venerable feast of the blessed Eric may increase our devotion and promote our salvation. Through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son, who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit, God, for ever and ever. Amen.
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