Feast Day: July 12th
Patron of: Photography
Short Bio:
Although Saint Veronica is not mentioned in the bible by name, she is recognized as the woman who wiped the blood and sweat off Christ’s face the day, he carried the cross. However, you may recognize her from the Sixth Station of the Cross where we honor her simple act of kindness. Unfortunately, we do not know much about her personal life, but the story of her veil is intriguing. As she wiped Jesus’ face, it imprinted on her veil. Thus, making her veil one of the most valuable church relics. We may not know a lot about her background, but we know her act of compassion through tradition and should try to imitate her kindness to those who are hurting.
Fun Facts:
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The image of Jesus’ face is imprinted on her veil.
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Pope Paul V banned production on copies of the veil, while Pope Urban VIII ordered for the destruction of the copies.
Prayer:
O My Jesus, Saint Veronica served You on the way to Calvary by wiping Your beloved face with a towel on which Your sacred image then appeared. She protected this treasure, and whenever people touched it, they were miraculously healed. I ask her to pray for the growth of my ability to see Your sacred image in others, to recognize their hurts, to stop and join them on their difficult journeys, and to feel the same compassion for them as she did for You. Show me how to wipe their faces, serve their needs, and heal their wounds, reminding me that as I do this for them, I also do this for You. Saint Veronica, pray for me. Amen.