Born in 1559 in Italy, Julius Caesar Russo was taught by Franciscans as a child. After his father died when he was seven, he was sent to live with his uncle in Venice, who was a priest who secured his education with Capuchins. Julius joined the Capuchins when he was 16 and took the name Lawrence. He mastered nine languages in addition to his native Italian and read St. Thomas Aquinas, the Fathers of the Church, Jewish Rabbinic literature, and the Bible in all of the original languages. He was known for his deep knowledge, intense spirituality, missionary travels throughout Europe, and eloquent preaching. He died on his 60th birthday, leaving behind multiple volumes of written works that earned him the title Doctor of the Church.
CHALLENGE
Though St. Lawrence of Brindisi always worked for peace wherever he went, he was asked to be the chaplain of the army of the Holy Roman Empire defending the empire from the Ottoman Turks. St. Lawrence led the troops into battle on horseback carrying nothing more than a crucifix, and the army won a decisive victory. Today, buy a new crucifix to carry with you in your pocket, purse, or car. Let it accompany you into your daily battle against sin.
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