The Role of the Saint

Where it surfaces

• XIV: The Hidden Ones

  The chapter explores how saints are hidden from worldly recognition, known only by inner virtues and Christ's presence in the heart.

• XXXII: Substance and Shadow

  Highlights the high destiny of man as a 'son of immortal seed,' called to exercise God-given agency over the material world.

• XXXIV: The Saint and the Hero

  The poem distinguishes the saint's quiet, humble ways from the hero's more visible praise, exploring the true nature of sanctity.

• XXXVIII: Absolution

  The saint acts as a mediator, not claiming personal grace but lifting the 'Mercy-sign' and pronouncing the words of absolution.

• Transfiguration

  The poem depicts the gradual recognition of a saint, emphasizing the hidden holiness that is ultimately revealed through divine light.

• LXIII: The Call of David

  David is molded by angels to become the root of 'man's promised healing Fruit,' a type of saintly figure destined for greatness through trial.

• Sympathy

  The souls of the just and elder spirits are considered but found distant from human sympathy, highlighting the unique role of Christ.

• St. Gregory Nazianzen

  The poem explores how saints like Gregory are given specific gifts and tasks by divine wisdom, sometimes leading to unexpected paths of service and rest.

• XCVII: St. Paul

  The poem explores the narrator's desire to witness the deeds of prophets and saints, culminating in the personal encounter with St. Paul.

• CIII: Pusillanimity

  John the Baptist exemplifies the saint's role of pointing to Christ and accepting a subordinate position with grace.

• CXXI: Intercession of the Saints

  Moses exemplifies the saint as intercessor, receiving heavenly visions yet remaining mindful of the earthly community's struggles.

• CLVIII: Ethelwald

  Ethelwald exemplifies the saint who humbly conceals his spiritual victories and graces, revealing them only in unguarded moments.

• Valentine to a Little Girl

  The poem presents saints as noble warriors and martyrs who serve Christ, offering a model of devotion for the little girl.

• St. Philip Neri in His Mission

  St. Philip is depicted as an apostle of Rome, a spiritual guide who lures the noble and young from worldly pride to a life of hidden discipline and heart.

• St. Philip in Himself

  St. Philip is portrayed as a saintly figure whose sweetness, ecstasy, and fragrance inspire and transform others, embodying the ideal of saintly influence.

• St. Philip in His God

  Philip is depicted as a transparent vessel through which Christ's light and presence are made manifest to others.

• CLXXI: St. Philip in His School

  St. Philip is portrayed as a gentle, patient guide who leads souls to God through love and kindness.

• St. Philip in His Disciples

  St. Philip is presented as a model of holy living, whose example guides the disciple through life's trials.

• St. Michael

  St. Michael is portrayed as a warrior, guardian, guide, and eschatological herald, embodying the saint's protective and intercessory role.

• § 2

  The Angel's role as a guardian and guide reflects the saintly function of aiding souls on their journey from earth to heaven.

• § 3

  The angel acts as a guide and intercessor, explaining the soul's state and the beginning of judgment, fulfilling the role of a spiritual companion.

• § 4

  The Angel contrasts the demons' mockery of saints with the power of holy hermits and saints who defy them even in death.

• § 5

  The angels and the soul participate in the divine drama, with the soul undergoing purification to become a saint.

• Endnotes

  References to St. Philip Neri and St. Francis d'Assisi illustrate the intercession and example of saints in the context of death and divine vision.