Children who live in areas where there is occasional snowfall during winter are very familiar with “snow days.” It is that glorious moment when a child (or teacher) wakes up and discovers that school has been canceled!
There are certain days during the long winter months when a day off of school is much needed and children (or sometimes teachers) may even utter a short prayer to God for that intention. If you are looking for a little extra heavenly help, try adding this saint to the mix.
St. Eulalia of Merida is typically connected to such a petition, though not officially. She lived in the 4th century in Spain and died when she was around 14 years old.
According to an ancient legend, she was arrested for being a Christian during the persecutions of Emperor Diocletian. She freely submitted herself to the local authorities and wanted to suffer a martyr’s death.
Eulalia was subsequently killed for her faith, and after her death her body was thrown into the street, naked. A miraculous snowfall came down at that moment and covered up her body. When her body was buried, snow again covered it, as if it were the white pall that usually covers a casket before burial.
Another popular heavenly helper is “Our Lady of the Snows.” This title of the Blessed Virgin Mary is associated with a miraculous snowfall in the 4th century that outlined the future Basilica of St. Mary Major in Rome.
God always listens to our prayers, whether they be childish or child-like. Just remember, he may not always answer them in the way we had hoped!
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The church that Our Lady outlined in snow
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And today we celebrate...