Today is the fest day of Saint John Newmann. He was a tireless preacher of the gospel, especially the poor and forsaken. 
John Newmann was born on Good Friday March 28, 1811, in Bohemia. It is known as the Czech Republic now. He was the third child of six children born to a stocking knitter and his wife.
He came to America at age 25 and was ordained a priest in 1836 in New York.
He joined the Redemptorists and professed his vows in 1842.
John became a citizen in 1848. He learned 7 different languages to help serve his congregation.
He became the bishop of Philadelphia in 1852 where he also established the Diocesan School System.
He was so hard working that at the age of 48, he collapsed in the streets of Philadelphia and died. He was buried in the crypt of Saint Peters Church in Philadelphia. Now pilgrims come from all over the world to visit his shrine.
In 1977 he was canonized a saint.
Stuffed peppers are a common staple in the Czech Republic, here is my version of it.
Stuffed Peppers
Ingredients:
6 large bell peppers
3 tablespoons olive oil
1 medium onion chopped
2 cloves garlic chopped
2 teaspoons oregano
1 lb 80/20 ground beef
1/3 cup barbecue sauce
15 oz can diced tomatoes
1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
1 1/2 cups cooked long grain rice
Directions:
Preheat oven to 350 degrees
Cut tops off of peppers and remove seeds and membranes. In a large stockpot blanch for 5 minutes. Drain
In a 8 inch skillet heat oil and saute onions for about 5 minutes and oregano and garlic and cook an additional minute. Add the beef and cook until it is no longer pink. Stir in barbecue sauce, tomatoes, Worcestershire sauce and rice.
Fill peppers and place in 9 x 13 inch pan. Bake 30-45 minutes until bubbly and hot.
Peace be with you,
Veronica
