April is the month when we honor the Body of Christ, and July, we honor His Blood. The birthstone for July is the red ruby, seemingly reflecting the red Blood of Our Lord, raised up in adoration this month. God made all things of the natural world and they continually praise Him, each in its own way. A life of authenticity is a life immersed in His creation, the surest way to happiness.
July 1st is the feast of the Most Precious Blood, in the traditional calendar. The ensuing week invokes many who shed their own blood, directing humanity to that which was shed upon the Holy Cross. We celebrate the Visitation on the 2nd, when Saint John the Baptist leapt in Saint Elizabeth’s womb, the one who paved the way for Christ and was martyred in the process. The 3rd, we honor Saint Thomas, the one who doubted, but later also gave his life, doubting no more. And on the 6th, there is Saint Maria Goretti, the young girl who gave her life for purity. Later in the month, on the 25th, Saint James the Greater is honored, also a martyred Apostle.
Also from the 1st Century, Saints Mary Magdalen on the 22nd, Joachim & Anne on the 26th and Martha on the 29th. Our Lady of Mount Carmel, who gave Saint Simon Stock the miraculous Brown Scapular, is celebrated on the 16th.
Almighty and Eternal God, Thou hast appointed Thine only-begotten Son the Redeemer of the world, and willed to be appeased by His Blood. Grant, we beseech Thee, that we may worthily adore the Price of our salvation, and through its power be safeguarded from the evils of this present life, so that we may rejoice in its fruits forever in Heaven. Through the same Christ Our Lord.
Amen.
From the Litany of the Most Precious Blood
This month’s Roman Catholic Traditional Calendar: Calefactory.org
Please note, we discuss both trad and new feasts.