Jan. 7 Friday after Epiphany; Optional Memorial of St. Raymond of Penafort, priest; St. Andre Bessette, religious (Can), Opt. Mem.

Born in Barcelona, Spain, St. Raymond of Penafort was the third Superior-General of the Domincan Order. He is famous for his work in the freeing of slaves. He wrote five books of Decretals which are now a valuable part of the Canon Law of the Church. The Summa Casuum, which is about the correct and fruitful administration of the Sacrament of Penance, is the most notable of his works. St. Raymond’s feast is January 23 in the previous liturgical calendar (1962).