On this same day, we also joyfully celebrate the feast of Blessed Giacomo Cusmano, a compassionate Sicilian priest and physician who devoted his life to serving the poor and sick in 19th-century Palermo. Deeply moved by the physical and spiritual misery around him, he founded the Congregation of the Missionary Servants of the Poor and the Sisters Servants of the Poor, uniting charitable action with a profound love for Christ. Known as the “apostle of charity,” Blessed Giacomo saw the face of Jesus in every suffering person and lived the Gospel through concrete acts of mercy. His life reminds us that true holiness is often found in humble service and tireless love for those in need.

We also celebrate the foundation of the Archconfraternity of the Holy Agony of Our Lord, established in 1862. This Lay Association, founded at Valfleury, France by the Vincentian priest, Antoine Nicolle, invites the faithful to honor the intense mental suffering of Jesus during His agony in the Garden of Gethsemane. Originally formed to promote the Red Scapular of the Passion, its mission was soon embraced with indulgences granted by Pope Pius IX. Elevated to the status of an Archconfraternity in France (1873) and extended globally under Pope Leo XIII in 1894, the group encouraged daily prayers, weekly Mass attendance, and spiritual support for those nearing death. Headquartered at the Congregation of the MIssion motherhouse in Paris and guided by the Superior General of the Congregation of the Mission, it continues today in churches and chapels worldwide, especially those overseen by the Congregation of the Mission and the Daughters of Charity.