CIUDAD to - the Catholic Kingdom!

THE CORONATION 187
seventy-two disciples; for from the very beginning of
his following Christ our Savior, She looked upon him
with an especial love, placing him first, or among the first,
in her estimation. She immediately saw, that this saint
was chosen by the Master of life for the defense of his
honor and his holy name, and that he was to give up his
life for him. Moreover this courageous saint was of a
sweet and peaceful disposition; and he was rendered
much more amiable and docile to all holiness by the work
ings of grace. Such dispositions made him very pleas
ing to the sweetest Mother and whenever She found
;
any
persons naturally of a peaceful and meek character, She
was wont to say, that they resembled her divine Son.
On this account and on account of many heroic virtues
of saint Stephen She loved him tenderly, procured him
many blessings, and thanked the Lord for having created,
called and chosen such a one for the first-fruits of his
martyrs. In consideration of his coming martyrdom, re
vealed to Her by her divine Son, her heart was filled
with additional affection
for this great saint.
185. The blessed saint corresponded in most faithful
attention and deepest reverence with the benefits con
ferred upon him by Christ our Savior and his heavenly
Mother; for he was not only of a peaceful, but of an
humble heart, and those that are so disposed in truth, are
thankful for all benefits, even though they may not be
so great as those conferred on saint Stephen. He always
entertained the highest conceptions concerning the Mother
of mercy, and in his high esteem and fervent devotion he
continued to seek her favor. He asked information on
many mysterious matters; for he was very wise, full of
the Holy Spirit and of faith, as is told us by saint Luke.
The great Lady answered all his inquiries, encouraged
and exhorted him zealously to work for the honor of
Private Use Only