On this 4th day of the virtual Advent pilgrimage, we find ourselves in the City of Angels: Los Angeles.
Unknown to most visitors to the city is that an ancient Roman martyr lies among its midst. That is St. Vibiana and her tomb is located in the crypt of the stunning Cathedral of Our Lady of the Angels.
All that is known of her is that she died a young virgin and defender of the faith in third century Rome, at a time when Christianity remained illegal in the Empire. She was buried in catacombs off the Appian Way in Rome. Her remains were translated to L.A. in the late nineteenth century and she was named patron saint of Los Angeles.
It is important to recall these ancient Roman martyrs as we progress along our own Advent journey, as a reminder of how fervently the early Church lived their faith and their willingness to sacrifice everything – even their lives – to remain true to their faith and serve the Messiah who came to us at Christmas.
Discover Catholic Los Angeles
If you are interested in learning more about Catholic Los Angeles, read my guide to Catholic L.A. here.
Concluding Psalm
As a concluding psalm, let us reflect on the words of Psalm 39:
“Lord, let me know my end, the number of my days, that I may learn how frail I am. To be sure, you establish the expanse of my days; indeed, my life is as nothing before you. Every man is but a breath.” (Psalm 39: 5-6)
Previous days of the pilgrimage:
Day 1 – Rapid City, South Dakota
Day 2 – Montana
Day 3 – Sacramento
CATHOLIC CONCIERGE 
Leave a comment