blogtcs.com

I was fascinated by something I learned in our staff meeting this morning. The top of our agenda — which we all take turns creating — had a brief bio of St. Jerome.

I knew his feast day (today) was coming up after recently researching some stuff on the St. Jerome Parish Web site, but didn’t know much about this Church doctor.

This morning I learned that St. Jerome (b.331 and d.420) was popular with artists. He’s been depicted in the desert, as a scholar in his study and in the robes of a cardinal because of his services for Pope Damasus. What I’ll remember most though, is that he is the patron saint of librarians, among other groups.

The Kino Institute Library at the Diocesan Pastoral Center in Phoenix.

Being a silent advocate of libraries (no pun intended) and cardholder at four library districts in the Valley, I thought today would be a good day to remind you about the Catholic libraries at your fingertips. Some parishes have a collection of material, be it brochures or books.

What many may not know, is that the Kino Library at the Diocesan Pastoral Center has some 25,0000 theological resources in English and Spanish available for checkout. Their circulation system works like many others: three weeks for books and 1-2 weeks for audio/video material. It’s a great resource for ministry leaders.

Consider taking a visit sometime. The Arizona Ecumenical Council called it an “invaluable resource.” I know Darcy, the librarian, feels the same way. She’d love to meet you and help you find whatever you may be looking for when you stop in for a visit.

-Ambria