Nehase 1 — August 07

Saint Aboli, the Brave Prince

Aboli (say it: AH-boh-lee) was a young prince. His family was very rich and important in the city of Rome. But Aboli did not love riches the most. He loved God the most.

A ruler named Diocletian (say it: dy-oh-KLEE-shun) wanted everyone to bow down to statues called idols instead of praying to God. Aboli would not do it, no matter what. He stayed faithful to Jesus even when staying faithful could cost him his life. That is what makes someone a martyr.

One night, Jesus came to Aboli and his family and gently comforted them. He told them not to be afraid, because He had a beautiful home in heaven waiting for them. That promise made them strong and happy.

Wicked men hurt Aboli because he kept loving Jesus. But God watched over him. God gave Aboli new strength and healed him, and the angel Michael came and touched him so his hurts were gone. Many people saw this and began to love Jesus too.

One day a wall fell down, and a rich man's two sons and some workers were buried under it. The sad father begged Aboli for help. Aboli knelt and prayed, and in the name of Jesus he took the men by the hand. They all stood up alive and well. Everyone cheered, "Jesus is the one true God!"

At the very end, Aboli went home to God and received his crown in heaven. People still visit the place where his body rests, and God still heals people who pray there.

Peace be unto thee, O My chosen one Aboli. Be strong and fear not, for I will be with thee until the end.— the words of Jesus to Aboli

Saint Hannah and Hannah the Prophetess

We also remember two good women named Hannah. The first Hannah was the mother of our Lady Mary. That means she was the grandmother of Jesus! She loved God and raised Mary with great care.

The second Hannah was a prophetess, a woman who listened to God and told others what He said. She was the daughter of a man named Panuel. She spent her days praying in God's house and thanking Him. We thank God for both of these faithful women.

Faith, Hope, and Charity

On this day we honor three young sisters with beautiful names: Faith, Hope, and Charity. Charity is another word for love. These are some of the best things we can have in our hearts.

The three sisters loved God so much that they stayed faithful to Him no matter what, and they gave their lives for Him. But God took special care of them. Even the smoke and fire could not harm them, and they stayed as lovely as ever. God showed everyone that He keeps His brave friends safe in His hands.

Joseph and Nicodemus, the Loving Friends

Joseph and Nicodemus (say it: nik-oh-DEE-mus) were two good men who loved Jesus. When Jesus died on the Cross, these two friends were brave and kind. They were not afraid of anyone. They asked the ruler Pilate for permission to take care of Jesus' body.

Joseph brought soft, clean cloths, and Nicodemus brought sweet-smelling spices. Gently and lovingly, they wrapped Jesus and laid Him to rest in a brand-new tomb.

Nicodemus was the man who once came to talk with Jesus at night. Jesus taught him that to enter God's kingdom, a person must be born again of water and the Holy Spirit. Nicodemus never forgot those words, and he often spoke up for Jesus.

Later, some people were angry at Joseph for caring for Jesus, and they locked him in a prison. But Jesus, now risen and alive, came to him surrounded by thousands of shining angels. Jesus showed Joseph His hands and told him not to be afraid, and He set Joseph free. After that, Joseph and Nicodemus spent their lives telling everyone the good news about Jesus, and then they died in peace.

Be not afraid. Behold, I have come to set thee free.— the words of the risen Jesus to Joseph