TODAYS REFLECTION FRI OCTAVE OF EASTER APRIL 1

TODAYS REFLECTION FRI OCTAVE OF EASTER APRIL 1  ( Acts 4: 1-12, Jn 21: 1-14 )

#THESTONEREJECTEDBYTHEBUILDERSHASBECOMETHECORNESTONE#

It is through the Paschal Mystery, Jesus’ death and Resurrection, that his Incarnation, and therefore his Mission, is made perfect. By celebrating the event of Easter intensely for eight days and then steadily for a week of weeks (49 days) the Church wants to enable us to appreciate the infinite wonder that Easter represents in our Faith.

In todays gospel, Jesus revealed himself again to his disciples at the Sea of Tiberias. John gives us a clue. He states that Peter had decided to return to his home district of Galilee, very likely so he could resume his fishing career. Peter was discouraged and didn't know what to do after the tragedy of Jesus' death! He went back to his previous career out of despair and uncertainty. The other apostles followed him back to Galilee. But today, Jesus repeats the same miracle He did in luke 5:4-11, John, the beloved disciple, is the first to recognize the Lord. Peter impulsively leaps from the boat and runs to the Lord. Do you run to the Lord when you meet setbacks, disappointments, or trials?

Beloved, In his third appearance to the apostles, after Jesus performed the miraculous catch of fish, he prepared a breakfast and ate with them. The Lord Jesus reveals himself to each of  us as we open our hearts to hear his word. In the first reading as Peter confronted the religious leaders: "You crucified" Jesus (Acts 4:10). "You the builders" rejected the Cornerstone (Acts 4:11); "You even made use of pagans to crucify and kill Him" (Acts 2:23). May we be able to confront the ills in the society that constitutes an obstacle in our faith and Nay we be ready to believe and run to Jesus all the time. WISHING YOU GOD'S BLESSINGS IN THIS NEW MONTH OF APRIL.

SAINT OF THE DAY APRIL 1 ( Blessed Ludovico Pavoni )

Blessed Ludovico Pavoni

Also known as

Ludovic Pavoni

Profile

Trained in theology by the Dominican Father Carlo Ferrari, future bishop of Brescia, Italy. Ordained in 1807. Founded an Oratory for Christian education of poor boys in Brescia. Secretary to bishop Gabrio Nava in 1812.

Rector of Saint Barnabas church in 1818 where soon after he founded an orphanage and associated trade school, basing his work on the idea that improving social conditions will improve the spiritual life, and improving the spiritual life will improve social conditions. In 1821 the school became the Institute of Saint Barnabas. Along with carpentry, silversmithing, blacksmithing, shoemaking, agriculture, and tool and dye makers, the school stressed the trades of printing and publishing. In 1823 Ludivico established The Publishing House of the Institute of Saint Barnabas; it exists today under the name Ancora. That same year, the school began taking in deaf and mute students.

In 1825 he founded a religious congregation of priests and brothers to run the school; it became the Brothers of Mary Immaculate or Pavoniani. Pope Gregory XVI authorized it for Brescia in 1843, and on 8 December 1847, Ludovico and the first members made their religious profession. Today there are 210 members in Brazil, Colombia, Eritrea, Germany, Italy and Spain, and they still publish books.

On 24 March 1849, Brescia was in rebellion against the Austrians. Both sides were ready to pillage the city and Father Ludovico led his boys to safety at Saiano, seven miles away. He died a week later as Brescia was in flames, but his boys were safe.

Born

11 September 1784 at Brescia, Italy

Died

Palm Sunday, 1 April 1849 at Saianco, Italy of natural causes

Venerated

5 June 1947 by Pope Pius XII (decree of heroic virtues)

Beatified

• 14 April 2002 by Pope John Paul II
• the beatification miracle involved the 1909 cure of Maria Stevani from typhoid fever.

SAINT OF THE DAY MAR 31

Saint Guy of Pomposa

Also known as

Guido, Guion, Wido, Wit, Witen

Profile

Known in his youth for being meticulous about his clothing and appearance - until the day he realized it was simply vanity and traded his fine clothes for a beggar‘s rags. Pilgrim to Rome, Italy. Spiritual student for three years of a hermit name Martin on an island in the River Po. Monk at Pomposa abbey near Ferrera, Italy. Benedictine monk at Saint Severus abbey, Ravenna, Italy. Abbot at Ravenna. Abbot at Pomposa. A student of scripture, at the request of Saint Peter Damian he taught Bible studies for two years. So many were attracted to his teaching, his leadership, and his example of the Christian life that his house doubled in size; his father and brother joined the order. Guy finally handed off the administrative elements of his position to concentrate on spiritual direction. He periodically retreated to a hermitage near Ferrara to spend his days in prayer and fasting. Near the end of his life he was unjustly persecuted for personal reasons by archbishop Heribert of Ravenna. Died while on a trip to Piacenza, Italy to advise Emperor Henry III on spiritual matters.

Born

at Ravenna, Italy

Died

• 1046 at Borgo San Donnino, Italy of natural causes
• interred in the church of Saint John the Evangelist, Speyer, Germany, which was renamed Saint Guido-Stift

Patronage

Speyer, Germany

TODAYS REFLECTION THURS OCTAVE OF EASTER MAR 31

TODAYS REFLECTION THURS OCTAVE OF EASTER MAR 31 ( Acts 3:11-26, Lk 24:35-48 )

#EXPERIENCINGTHERESURRECTIONPOWER#

Friends, today’s first reading begins with peoples amazement at a miraculous healing.  At first glance, it seems that Peter is pouring cold water on their experience. Peter is intent on putting this all in context, providing a lesson that would bring them a more complete understanding of the events that had occurred.  Amazement based only on the healing of the crippled man would be misplaced; it was yet another lesson that God is at work in their midst, doing something important for them.

Reflecting further we see that the crippled man “clung” to Peter and John.  This is such a human reaction, reflecting genuine gratitude.  We sometimes we need to express that with an embrace which shows that it is good to be human.  The Psalm for today really brings this home, and we wish we could embrace God to tell Him thank you for making us and for paying attention to us.

Beloved, in today’s gospel, we have more human reactions.  The disciples are startled and terrified at their unexpected encounter with a risen Jesus.  Their fear later turned into joy.  What a range of emotions!  We often experience relief when things turn out better than we anticipated. Jesus helps them open their minds to the truth that was emerging from the facts that had unfolded. Peter was trying to do the same thing in the first reading.  Perhaps he had learned a few things from Jesus. Oh Lord Anoint us with your  power and give us joy and boldness to proclaim the Gospel in word and deed. As the Month of March ends today never forget to show gratitude for blessings received. Wishing you more favours and  blessings. UNITED IN PRAYERS.

SAINT OF THE DAY MAR 30 ( Saint John Climacus )

Saint John Climacus

Also known as

• John of the Ladder
• John Scholasticus
• John the Sinaita

Profile

Well educated and came to adulthood in a intellectual environment. Monk on Mount Sinai at age 16. Hermit in various places in the Arabian Desert. Abbot at Mount Sinai at age 75. Just before his death he resigned his position to return to his solitary life. Ascetical writer whose works have for 15 centuries influenced those seeking the holy life.

Born

between 505 and 579 in Syria

Died

between 605 and 649 on Mount Sinai of natural causes

Representation

• abbot carrying a ladder
• man having a vision of a ladder being scaled by monks
• monk on a ladder

Storefront

books

Readings

A chaste man is completely oblivious to the difference between bodies. The rule and limit of absolute chastity is to have the same feelings regarding animate and inanimate beings, rational and irrational. - Saint John Climacus.

TODAYS REFLECTION WED OCTAVE OF EASTER MAR 30

TODAYS REFLECTION WED OCTAVE OF EASTER MAR 30 ( Acts 3: 1-10, Lk 24:13 -35 )

#THEEMMAUSEXPERIENCE#

Friends, Jesus' death scattered his disciples and shattered their hopes and dreams. They had hoped that he was the one to redeem Israel. They saw the cross as defeat and could not comprehend the empty tomb until the Lord appeared to them and gave them understanding. The two disciples on the road to Emmaus were mentally and spiritually paralyzed. Jesus said they had "little sense" and were slow to believe (Lk 24:25), but soon afterward their hearts burned and their eyes were opened (Lk 24:32, 31). This interior movement was a sign and experience of the Resurrection.

This reading has been a wonderful reality check. Lent is over, Holy Week was last week, and Easter Sunday has passed. Sometimes the ‘incredibleness’ of the resurrection is lost. I pray that the teachings of the Easter story stay with us, and we truly realize the sacrifice made for us.  May we take time to understand the impact of this event on us and all of those before us.

Finally, Peter and John healed a forty-year-old man who had been paralyzed from birth (Acts 3:7). When this man who couldn't move moved, ran, and jumped, it was a sign of the Resurrection. How often do we fail to recognize the Lord when he speaks to our hearts and opens his mind to us? The Risen Lord is ever ready to speak his word to us and to give us understanding of his ways. Lord may your word change and transform us and may we recognize your presence with us everyday. Wishing you Wednesday blessings.

SAINT OF THE DAY MAR 29 ( SAINT BARACHISIUS )

Saint Barachisius

Also known as

Berikjesu

Profile

Monk. Went with Saint Jonas of Hubaham, his brother and fellow monk, to Hubaham, Persia, to minister to Chistians imprisoned for their faith during the reign of King Sapor II. They were arrested, beaten, tortured, and martyred for this service, and for refusing to worship the sun, moon, fire and water. Eyewitness descriptions of their trial and execution have survived to today.

Born

at Beth-Asa, Persia

Died

by having hot brimstone and pitch poured down his throat on 24 December 327.

POPE'S EASTER MESSAGE ( Pope's u Urbi et Orbi Blessing )

Pope’s Urbi et Orbi Blessing

With the weapons of love, God has defeated selfishness and death.

MARCH 27, 2016

ZENIT STAFF FRANCIS

Here is a Vatican translation of the Easter message with the Urbi et Orbi blessing that Pope Francis gave today at noon.

__

“O give thanks to the Lord, for he is good,
for his mercy endures for ever” (Ps 135:1)

Dear Brothers and Sisters, Happy Easter!

Jesus Christ, the incarnation of God’s mercy, out of love for us, died on the cross, and out of love he rose again from the dead. That is why we proclaim today: Jesus is Lord!

His resurrection fulfils the prophecy of the Psalm: God’s mercy endures for ever; it never dies. We can trust him completely, and we thank him because for our sake he descended into the depths of the abyss.

Before the spiritual and moral abysses of mankind, before the chasms that open up in hearts and provoke hatred and death, only an infinite mercy can bring us salvation. Only God can fill those chasms with his love, prevent us from falling into them and help us to continue our journey together towards the land of freedom and life.

The glorious Easter message, that Jesus, who was crucified is not here but risen (cf. Mt 28:5-6), offers us the comforting assurance that the abyss of death has been bridged and, with it, all mourning, lamentation and pain (cf. Rev 21:4). The Lord, who suffered abandonment by his disciples, the burden of an unjust condemnation and shame of an ignominious death, now makes us sharers of his immortal life and enables us to see with his eyes of love and compassion those who hunger and thirst, strangers and prisoners, the marginalized and the outcast, the victims of oppression and violence. Our world is full of persons suffering in body and spirit, even as the daily news is full of stories of brutal crimes which often take place within homes, and large-scale armed conflicts which cause indescribable suffering to entire peoples.

The risen Christ points out paths of hope to beloved Syria, a country torn by a lengthy conflict, with its sad wake of destruction, death, contempt for humanitarian law and the breakdown of civil concord. To the power of the risen Lord we entrust the talks now in course, that good will and the cooperation of all will bear fruit in peace and initiate the building of a fraternal society respectful of the dignity and rights of each citizen. May the message of life, proclaimed by the Angel beside the overturned stone of the tomb, overcome hardened hearts and promote a fruitful encounter of peoples and cultures in other areas of the Mediterranean and the Middle East, particularly in Iraq, Yemen and Libya. May the image of the new man, shining on the face of Christ, favour concord between Israelis and Palestinians in the Holy Land, as well as patience, openness and daily commitment to laying the foundations of a just and lasting peace through direct and sincere negotiations. May the Lord of life also accompany efforts to attain a definitive solution to the war in Ukraine, inspiring and sustaining initiatives of humanitarian aid, including the liberation of those who are detained.

The Lord Jesus, our peace (Eph 2:14), by his resurrection triumphed over evil and sin. May he draw us closer on this Easter feast to the victims of terrorism, that blind and brutal form of violence which continues to shed blood in different parts of the world, as in the recent attacks in Belgium, Turkey, Nigeria, Chad, Cameroon, Côte d’Ivoire and Iraq. May he water the seeds of hope and prospects for peace in Africa; I think in particular of Burundi, Mozambique, the Democratic Republic of the Congo and South Sudan, marked by political and social tensions.

With the weapons of love, God has defeated selfishness and death. His son Jesus is the door of mercy wide open to all. May his Easter message be felt ever more powerfully by the beloved people of Venezuela in the difficult conditions which they are experiencing, and by those responsible for the country’s future, that everyone may work for the common good, seeking spaces of dialogue and cooperation with all. May efforts be made everywhere to promote the culture of counter, justice and reciprocal respect, which alone can guarantee the spiritual and material welfare of all people.

The Easter message of the risen Christ, a message of life for all humanity, echoes down the ages and invites us not to forget those men and women seeking a better future, an ever more numerous throng of migrants and refugees – including many children – fleeing from war, hunger, poverty and social injustice. All too often, these brothers and sisters of ours meet along the way with death or, in any event, rejection by those who could offer them welcome and assistance.

May the forthcoming World Humanitarian Summit not fail to be centred on the human person and his or her dignity, and to come up with policies capable of assisting and protecting the victims of conflicts and other emergencies, especially those who are most vulnerable and all those persecuted for ethnic and religious reasons.

On this glorious day, “let the earth rejoice, in shining splendour” (cf. Easter Proclamation), even though it is so often mistreated and greedily exploited, resulting in an alteration of natural equilibria. I think especially of those areas affected by climate change, which not infrequently causes drought or violent flooding, which then lead to food crises in different parts of the world.

Along with our brothers and sisters persecuted for their faith and their fidelity to the name of Christ, and before the evil that seems to have the upper hand in the life of so many people, let us hear once again the comforting words of the Lord: “Take courage; I have conquered the world! (Jn 16:33). Today is the radiant day of this victory, for Christ has trampled death and destruction underfoot. By his resurrection he has brought life and immortality to light (cf. 2 Tim 1:10). “He has made us pass from enslavement to freedom, from sadness to joy, from mourning to jubilation, from darkness to light, from slavery to redemption. Therefore let us acclaim in his presence: Alleluia!” (Melito of Sardis, Easter Homily).

To those in our society who have lost all hope and joy in life, to the elderly who struggle alone and feel their strength waning, to young people who seem to have no future, to all I once more address the words of the Risen One: “See, I am making all things new… To the thirsty I will give water as a gift from the spring of the water of life” (Rev 21:5-6). May this comforting message of Jesus help each of us to set out anew with greater courage and greater hope to blaze trails of reconciliation with God and with all our brothers and sisters. Of which we have great need!

SAINT OF THE DAY MAR 28 ( Blessed Conon of Naso )

Blessed Conon of Naso

Also known as

Cono, Conone

Profile

Born to the wealthy nobility, the son of Count Anselmo Navacita, governor of Naso, Italy, and Claudia Santapau. At age 15 he turned his back on wealth and became a Basilian monk at the nearby monastery. Monk at the Fragala Abbey in Frazzano, Italy. Spiritual student of Saint Lawrence of Frazzano. Priest. Hermit, living in a cave at the Rock of Almo. His reputation for holiness spread, however, and he was recalled to his monastery and chosen abbot. Pilgrim to the Holy Lands. Upon the death of his parents, Conon inherited a large bequest which he immediately distributed to the poor. He then retired to live the rest of his day as a prayerful hermit in the cave of San Michele.

Born

3 June 1139 in Naso, Messina, Italy

Died

• Friday 28 March 1236 in the cave of San Michele near Naso, Italy of natural causes, apparently while in prayer
• that day the bells in the town of Naso began ringing on their own; the locals when to the holy man to ask why it was happening; they found him dead and believed that the bells were ringing to annouce his passing

Beatified

1630 by Pope Urban VIII (cultus confirmation)

Patronage

• against ear problems
• against nose problems
• Naso, Italy
• San Cono, Italy.

TODAYS REFLECTION MON OCTAVE OF EASTER MAR 28

TODAYS REFLECTION MON OCTAVE OF EASTER MAR 28 ( Acts 2:14, 22-23, Mt 28:8-15 )

#TRUELYJESUSISRISENALLELUIA#

In the first reading of today, Peter's Pentecost proclamation speaks to the inexorability of God's plan of salvation.  He lists the hardnesses of heart and daunting obstacles the plan encountered. It crashed through them Citing David's psalm, he shows that this saving power has long been active in the history of the Chosen People.

In the gospel, the guards brought their testimony to the chief priests and elders who met the news with denial. They were resolved to not believe that Jesus had risen and they bribed the guards in the hope of keeping others from believing. Nevertheless, a few hours they changed the resurrection story among themselves to suit their pride and disappointment (Mt 28:12-13). These lies have been so successful that they circulate "to this very day" (Mt 28:15).

Nevertheless, Easter is a feast of light, and Jesus calls His disciples "the light of the world" (Mt 5:14). However, strong forces are attempting to put our light under a bushel basket (Mt 5:15). In fact, many Christians have many layers of bushel baskets over their light. If we take off the bushel basket of fear, for example, the bushel baskets of lukewarmness, unforgiveness, self-hatred, depression, laziness, anxiety, lust, and compulsions may still be covering us. May God give us the grace to proclaim the resurrection and  never lose sight of its truth in our lives. WISHING YOU A LOVELY AND HAPPY EASTER.

POPE AT GENERAL AUDIENCE ( Easter Triduum Gives Certainty We’ll Never Be Abandoned )

Pope at General Audience: Easter Triduum Gives Certainty We’ll Never Be Abandoned

Francis Says Our Jesus Says to Each One of Us: ‘If I Could Suffer More for You, I Would Do So’

MARCH 23, 2016
DEBORAH CASTELLANO LUBOV
GENERAL AUDIENCE

We can be certain that in life’s trials, we will never be abandoned.

The Holy Father stressed this during his weekly General Audience this morning in St. Peter’s Square, as he reflected on Holy Week.

Holy Thursday, Friday and Saturday, the Pontiff highlighted, enable us to enter increasingly in the great mystery of our faith: the Resurrection of our Lord Jesus Christ.

“Everything in these three days speaks of mercy, because it renders visible the point that God’s love can reach,” he said.

The Holy Father recalled the Evangelist John’s words, ‘He loved his own in the world and he loved them to the end (John 13:1),’ and stressed, “God’s love has no limits.”

A Drama of Love

“The Easter Triduum,” the Holy Father said, “is the memorial of a drama of love that gives us the certainty that we will never be abandoned in life’s trials.”

The Pope also noted how Holy Thursday, Friday, and Saturday each represents God’s service, love, and silence, respectively, and that we, as His disciples, are called to live out these characteristics in our lives.

Let me tell a story

The Pontiff then told the story of a young woman to help faithful better understand the Lord’s unlimited love for us.

“Her name was Julian of Norwich,” the Pope began. “She was illiterate, this girl who had visions of Jesus’ Passion and who then, having become a recluse, described in simple but profound and intense language, the meaning of merciful love.”

“She said this: “Then our good Lord asked me: ‘Are you happy that I suffered for you?’ I said: ‘Yes, good Lord, and I thank you very much; yes, good Lord, may you be blessed.”

“Then Jesus, our good Lord, said: ‘If you are happy, so am I. To have suffered the Passion for you is a joy for me, a happiness, and eternal bliss; and if I could suffer more, I would do so.'”

Our Jesus

“This is our Jesus,” Francis said, “who says to each one of us: ‘If I could suffer more for you, I would do so.'”

“How beautiful these words are!” he continued. “They enable us to truly understand the immense and limitless love that the Lord has for each one of us.”

Pope Francis concluded praying in that in these days, we allow ourselves to be enveloped by this mercy that comes to us and, that while we have our gaze fixed on the Passion and Death of the Lord, we receive in our hearts the greatness of His love.

***

On ZENIT’s Web page:

Full Translation: https://zenit.org/articles/general-audience-on-holy-week/

TODAYS REFLECTION GOOD FRIDAY MAR 25

TODAYS REFLECTION GOOD FRIDAY OF THE LORD'S PASSION ( FASTING AND ABSTINENCE ) MAR 25 (Is 52:13-53:12, Heb 4 :14-16, 5 :7-9, Jn 18: 1-19, 42 )

#SUFFEREDANDDIEDONTHECROSSFORUS#

In today’s liturgy, after our listening to the Suffering-Servant song from the Prophet Isaiah, as well as the hymn of Christ’s obedience even unto death, from Paul’s letter to the Philippian’s, we are presented with John’s account of Jesus’ Passion. In this recalling of the final hours of His life, Jesus is pictured as experiencing his finest hour. This obedience of Jesus is not only his compliance to the Will and love of his Father, but his grateful acceptance of all that was his identity.

By his words and gestures Jesus on the Cross is the total sacramentalization of Who he was and is. For him these hours are not a dream, though we can imagine he may have had day or night dreams about such an event. He literally is stripped of his clothing, but in a strange way, not of his dignity. His throne, his crown, his regal declarations are final and yet eternal. His whole life is consummated in this showing up and not avoiding his name and his message.

In the gospel account, Jesus declares two exclamation words, “I thirst” and “Woman this is your son.” When Jesus utters the word that he thirsts. This  physical desire is the sacrament of his longings for peace and reconciliation between God and creation. And by saying woman this is your son He is changing the shame of this-world’s sin into the honour of being gathered back into God’s family. Finally the Jesus says Father “Into your hands I commend my spirit!” We receive his thirst for us and are encouraged by the reception of his Body to continue his life within ours.

Beloved The Cross of Christ is the safeguard of our faith, the assurance of our hope, and the throne of love. The way to peace, joy, and righteousness in the kingdom of God and the way to victory over sin and corruption, fear and defeat, despair and death is through the cross of Jesus Christ. In the cross of Christ we see the triumph of Jesus over his enemies - sin, Satan, and death. St Paul writes  "But far be it from me to glory except in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ" (Gal 6:14). Lord may we always follow you through your cross and be filled with the joys of your resurrection. UNITED IN PRAYERS.

HOLY THURSDAY HOMILY.

Super-Abundance of Mercy

(Holy Thursday Homily)

...Culled from St Mary of the valley Homilies.

The Sacramentary, that is, the book used for the prayers of the Mass, gives a specific instruction regarding the homily for Holy Thursday. “The homily should explain the principal mysteries which are commemorated in this Mass: the institution of the Eucharist, the institution of the priesthood and Christ’s commandment of brotherly love.”

Because it's so intimately connected with the Eucharist, let's take a look at the priesthood. The German theologian, Fr. Karl Rahner, once spoke at the first Mass of a young Mexican priest. Many of his family and friends had come from Mexico to Austria where he was being ordained. Fr. Rahner’s words somewhat surprised them:

“You people,” he said, “expect everything from a priest. Everything, except the one the one thing he was ordained to give you – Christ crucified.”

Jesus gave the gift of the priesthood to his Church on the night before he died. He commanded the apostles, “Do this in remembrance of me.” When you stop to think about it, no command of the Lord has been obeyed more than that one. Throughout the world, in every time zone, in almost every language, there are hundreds, if not thousands of priests celebrating the Last Supper of the Lord.

Each year Pope Paul writes a Holy Thursday letter to the priests of the world. I’d like to quote one line from this year’s letter:

“As we gaze upon Christ at the Last Supper, as he becomes for us the ‘bread that is broken,’ as he stoops down in humble service at the feet of the Apostles, how can we (priests) not experience, together with Peter, the same feeling of unworthiness in the face of the great gift we receive.”

The pope then goes on to speak about how we should feel the grace of the priesthood as a “super-abundance of mercy.”

As I look back on my own years of priesthood – almost thirty now – I realize that it was often when I felt the weakest that I in fact accomplished the most. Or rather, I should say, Christ accomplished his work in me.

Tonite, together with Fr. Ramon Velasco and Deacon Ted Wiese, I will wash the feet of twelve men from our parish and will celebrate the Mass of the Lord’s Last Supper. I would like to share the one ambition I have – to serve you as your priest.

I know I have many limitations: I’m not the best at remembering names (I hope it’s not early Alzheimers), I’m not a great organizer or an eloquent speaker, but I want to give you the best, what you need the most – Christ crucified, truly present in the Eucharist. I do pray for you every day and ask that you do the same for me, especially when you come before our Lord in the Blessed Sacrament.

SAINT OF THE DAY MAR 24 ( Saint Catherine of Sweden )

Saint Catherine of Sweden

Also known as

• Catherine Vastanensis
• Catherine of Vadstena
• Katarina...

Profile

Fourth of the eight children of Saint Bridget of Sweden and Ulf Gudmarsson. Educated at the convent of Riseberg. Married by arrangement at age 13 to the pious German noble Eggart von Kürnen. Soon after their marriage, both she and her husband took vows of chastity and continence. Travelled to Rome, Italy in c.1350 to be with her mother. Widowed soon after.

For the next 25 years the two women used Rome as a base for a series of pilgrimages, including one to Jerusalem. When home, they spent their days in prayer and meditation, working with the poor, and teaching them religion. They each had to fend off the unwanted advances of local men, including young lords; during one of these, a wild hind came to Catherine's defense, chasing off the troublesome, would-be suitor.

When Bridget died, Catherine took her body back to Sweden, burying it at the convent of the Order of the Holy Savior (Brigittines) at Vadstena. Catherine became superior of the Order, and served as abbess. Wrote a devotional work entitled Sielinna Troëst (Consolation of the Soul), but no copies have survived. Attained papal approval of the Brigittine Order in 1375. Worked for the canonization of her mother.

Born

1331 in Sweden

Died

• 24 March 1381 of natural causes
• relics translated to Vadstena, Sweden in 1488

Canonized

1484 (cultus confirmed) by Pope Innocent VIII

Patronage

• against abortions
• against miscarriages

Representation

• Brigittine abbess with a hind at her side
• Brigittine holding a lily
• Brigittine dressing a poor man's wounds
• Brigittine being brought Communion on her death bed.

HOLY THURSDAY THE INSTITUTION OF THE HOLY EUCHARIST

Holy Thursday: The Institution of the Eucharist

The Prelate’s Holy Thursday Reflections, broadcast on EWTN world radio

FROM THE PRELATEApril 9, 2004

The content of the Holy Thursday liturgy is so rich. This is the great day of the institution of Holy Eucharist, heaven’s gift to mankind; the day of the institution of the Priesthood, another divine gift that brings the Sacrifice of Calvary into all times and places, really and truly present, so that we can make its fruits our own.

The moment is drawing near when Jesus will offer his life for mankind. So great was his love that in his infinite Wisdom He found a way to go away and stay here at the same time. When St. Josemaría Escrivá observed that some people are obliged to leave their homes and families in order to find work elsewhere, he commented: “Human love has found a symbol. Those who go away leave behind in their place a reminder, perhaps a photo. Jesus Christ, perfect God and perfect Man, doesn’t leave a symbol, but a reality: He himself stays. He will go to the Father, but He will also remain with men. Under the species of bread and wine, He is really present—Body, Blood, Soul, and Divinity.”

How do we correspond to such immense love? By assisting with faith and devotion at Holy Mass, the living and present memorial of the Sacrifice of Calvary. By preparing very well to receive Him in Holy Communion with our souls very clean. By frequently visiting Jesus hidden in the Tabernacle.

In the first reading of the Mass, we are reminded of what God established in the Old Testament so that the people of Israel would not forget the benefits they had received from Him. The text goes into great detail: from how the paschal lamb was to be prepared to the careful way of recalling the passing of the Lord. If all that was prescribed to commemorate events which only prefigured our liberation from sin as Jesus Christ obtained it, how much more carefully ought we to conduct ourselves now that we have truly been redeemed from enslavement to sin and made children of God!

This is why the Church inculcates in us great refinement in caring for everything that refers to the Eucharist. Do we assist at the Holy Sacrifice every Sunday and holy day of obligation, knowing that we are taking part in a divine action?

St. John relates that Jesus washed the feet of his disciples before the Last Supper. We have to be clean, body and soul, to receive Him worthily. This is why He left us the Sacrament of Penance.

Today we also commemorate the institution of the Priesthood. It is a good moment to pray for the Pope, for bishops, and for priests, and to ask for many vocations throughout the world. We’ll pray better the closer we are to this Jesus of ours who instituted the Eucharist and the Priesthood. Let us tell him with complete sincerity what St. Josemaria often said to Him: “Lord, place in my heart the love with which you want me to love you.”

In today’s events the Virgin Mary is not physically present, although she was in Jerusalem those days. Tomorrow we shall find her at the foot of the Cross. But today, discretely and quietly she accompanies her Son very closely, in a profound union of prayer, sacrifice, and self-giving. John Paul II indicates that after the Ascension of Our Lord into Heaven, Mary would participate assiduously in the Eucharistic celebrations of the first Christians. The Pope adds: “The body given up for us and made present under sacramental signs was the same body she had conceived in her womb! For Mary, receiving the Eucharist must have somehow meant welcoming once more into her womb that heart which had beat in unison with hers” (Ecclesia de Eucharistia, 56).

Now, too, the Virgin Mary accompanies Christ in all the world’s Tabernacles. We ask her to teach us to be Eucharistic souls, men and women of certain faith and strong piety who make the effort not to leave Jesus alone. May we know how to adore Him, beg his pardon, thank Him for his blessings, and keep Him company.

TODAYS REFLECTION HOLY THURSDAY MAR 24

TODAYS REFLECTION HOLY THURSDAY MAR 24  ( Exd 12:1-8, 11-14, 1Cor 11: 23-36, Jn 13: 1-15 )

Beloved friends, Today we begin the Triduum, seventy hours of prayer, followed by the Easter season, fifty days of celebrating the risen Christ, it is one of the most important times in our lives. In the readings for tonight’s Mass of the Lord’s Supper, we see many examples of how to live our lives, including Jesus doing something extraordinary to set an example for all of us.

As his hour of humiliation draws near he reveals to his disciples the supreme humility which shaped the love he had for them. He stoops to perform a menial task reserved for servants - the washing of smelly, dirty feet. In stooping to serve his disciples Jesus knew he would be betrayed by one of them and that the rest would abandon him through disloyalty.

In the first reading from Exodus, the Lord tells Moses and Aaron how to celebrate the Passover, giving them instructions about preparing the lamb for dinner and in the gospel Jesus offered a new set of instructions to His disciples as they gathered for their Passover dinner, He got up from the table, took off his cloak and knelt on the floor to wash the feet of each of them, giving an example for us on how we are to live our lives, as servants.  “As I have done for you, you should also do.”

Jesus loved his disciples to the very end, even when they failed him and forsook him. The Lord loves each of us unconditionally. His love has power to set us free to serve others with Christ-like compassion and humility. Todays mass also echoes the institution of THE HOLY EUCHARIST AND THE INSTITUTION OF THE HOLY PRIESTHOOD.

The Lord Jesus on the night in which He was betrayed took bread, and after He had given thanks, broke it and said, 'This is My body, Which is for you. Do this in remembrance of Me.' 1 Cor 11:23-24. For in the blessed Eucharist is contained the whole spiritual good of the Church, namely Christ Himself. Today as we  commemorate the institution of the Priesthood. It is a good moment to pray for the Pope, for bishops, and for priests, and to pray for many vocations throughout the world too. Wishing you a spirit filled ceebrations. United in prayers.

DEACONS AND THE EASTER TRIDUUM

Deacons and the Easter Triduum

No Celebration If There Is No Priest

MARCH 22, 2016

FR. EDWARD MCNAMARA

LITURGY Q-AND-A

Answered by Legionary of Christ Father Edward McNamara, professor of liturgy and dean of theology at the Regina Apostolorum university. 

Q: I want some clarification on the Easter Triduum liturgies. Can a deacon preside at these liturgies on Holy Thursday, Good Friday and Easter Vigil, in a situation where there is no priest available? If yes, what are the dos and don’ts? — R.M., Kitwe, Zambia

A: The quick and immediate answer to the question is no, the deacon cannot preside at any of these functions, and if no priest is available they are simply not celebrated.

It must be remembered that the celebrations of the Easter Triduum are not days of precept, so while everything possible should be done to ensure their celebration for as many faithful as possible, this must be done without undermining the nature of the celebrations themselves.

It must also be remembered that the celebrations are intimately related to one another and to their inner meaning. The Holy See’s 1988 circular letter “Paschales Solemnitatis” and the norms of the new Latin Missal are clear that the Mass of the Lord’s Supper and the Good Friday service are related in such an intimate way that they should generally be celebrated in the same church. Although they are not necessarily celebrated by the same priest, their intimate union and their nature require the presence of a priest. Regarding the difficulty of celebrating for more than one parish, “Paschales Solemnitatis” states:

“43. It is fitting that small religious communities, both clerical and lay, and other lay groups should participate in the celebration of the Easter Triduum in neighboring principal churches.

“Similarly, where the number of participants and ministers is so small that the celebrations of the Easter Triduum cannot be carried out with the requisite solemnity, such groups of the faithful should assemble in a larger church.

“Also, where there are small parishes with only one priest, it is recommended that such parishes should assemble, as far as possible, in a principal church and participate in the celebration there.

“On account of the needs of the faithful, where a pastor has the responsibility for two or more parishes in which the faithful assemble in large numbers, and where the celebration can be carried out with the requisite care and solemnity, the celebrations of the Easter Triduum may be repeated in accord with the given norms.”

A footnote to the first paragraph clarifies the case of cloistered communities: “In monasteries of nuns, every effort should be made to celebrate the Easter Triduum with the greatest possible ceremony, but within the monastery church.”

Regarding the union of Holy Thursday and Good Friday the document says:

“46. The Mass of the Lord’s Supper is celebrated in the evening, at a time that is more convenient for the full participation of the whole local community. All priests may concelebrate even if on this day they have already concelebrated the Chrism Mass, or if, for the good of the faithful, they must celebrate another Mass.

“47. Where pastoral considerations require it, the local Ordinary may permit another Mass to be celebrated in churches and oratories in the evening, and in the case of true necessity, even in the morning, but only for those faithful who cannot otherwise participate in the evening Mass. Care should nevertheless be taken to ensure that celebrations of this kind do not take place for the benefit of private persons or of small groups, and that they are not to the detriment of the main Mass.

“According to the ancient tradition of the Church, all Masses without the participation of the people are on this day forbidden.

“48. The Tabernacle should be completely empty before the celebration. Hosts for the Communion of the faithful should be consecrated during that celebration. A sufficient amount of bread should be consecrated to provide also for Communion on the following day.

“49. For the reservation of the Blessed Sacrament, a place should be prepared and adorned in such a way as to be conducive to prayer and meditation, seriousness appropriate to the liturgy of these days is enjoined so that all abuses are avoided or suppressed. When the tabernacle is located in a chapel separated from the central part of the church, it is appropriate to prepare the place of repose and adoration there.

“53. It is more appropriate that the Eucharist be borne directly from the altar by the deacons, or acolytes, or extraordinary ministers at the moment of communion for the sick and infirm who must communicate at home, so that in this way they may be more closely united to the celebrating Church.

“54. After the post-Communion prayer, the procession forms, with the crossbar at its head. The Blessed Sacrament, accompanied by lighted candles and incense, is carried through the church to the place of reservation, to the singing of the hymn ‘Pange lingua’ or some other eucharistic song. This rite of transfer of the Blessed Sacrament may not be carried out if the Liturgy of the Lord’s Passion will not be celebrated in that same church on the following day.

This last norm underlines the union of the two rites which in a way form a single whole and so a priest must be available for both celebrations.

It must also be noted that since the norms of the missal only allow for distribution of the Eucharist outside of Mass to the sick on Holy Thursday and Good Friday and only to the dying on Holy Saturday, then it follows that there can be no Celebrations of the Word with Distribution of Communion on these days.

This day is the memorial of the first Mass and it would not be appropriate to substitute the Mass for any other celebration.

However, where the presence of priests is totally impossible some forms of pious exercise may be organized by catechists or even deacons to remember these days but excluding the distribution of Communion and the reservation of the Eucharist.

The celebration of the Easter Vigil is not associated in this way and may be celebrated independently of the other two functions. However, the vigil is essentially a Mass and thus cannot be presided over by a deacon. The Eucharist distributed on that day should be consecrated in the Mass itself.

However, in communities where no Masses whatsoever are to be celebrated on Easter Sunday, it would be possible to distribute communion outside of Mass. If possible it would be preferable that this communion service use hosts consecrated during the Easer Vigil.

SAINT OF THE DAY MAR 23 ( Saint Turibius of Mogroveio )

23 March
Wednesday of Holy Week (2016);
Optional Memorial, Saint Turibius of Mogroveio,
BishopSaint Turibius of Mogroveio

Also known as

• Turibius de Mongrovejo
• Toribio Alfonso de Mogrovejo
• Turribius Alphonsus Mogrobejo
• Turybiusz de Mogrovejo
• Turibio de Mogrovejo

Profile

Born to the nobility. Lawyer. Professor of law at Salamanca, Spain. Ordained in 1578 at age 40. Judge of the Court of the Inquisition at Granada, Spain. Archbishop of Lima, Peru on 15 May 1579. Founded the first seminary in the Western hemisphere. Fought for the rights of the natives against the Spanish masters. Organized councils and synods in the New World.

Born

1538 at Mayorga de Campos, Leon, Spain

Died

23 May 1606 at Santa, Peru of natural causes

Beatified

2 July 1679 by Pope Innocent XI

Canonized

10 December 1726 by Pope Benedict XIII

Patronage

• Latin American bishops
• native rights
• Lima, Peru
• Peru

TODAYS REFLECTION HOLY WEEK WED MAR 23

TODAYS REFLECTION HOLY WEEK WED MAR 23 ( Is 50: 4-9,  Mt 26: 14 -25 )

Beloved in todays gospel Jesus does things to instruct His disciples, and also us. He's trying to teach them, and Judas, how we should respond in the presence of our enemies, and that the appropriate response is mercy. The apostles were deeply distressed that Jesus' betrayer was seated in their midst at the Last Supper. However, Jesus was not distressed, although hours later in the garden of Gethsemane Jesus "began to experience sorrow and distress" (Mt 26:37). In the presence of His betrayer, Jesus was calmly in control of the situation, what an encouragement to us.

Jesus, by announcing that His betrayer is at hand, forces Judas to realize that He is still divine, still all-knowing, and still reaching out to Him in mercy. Yet He knows that Judas will refuse His final offer to repent but still reaches out to him with an offer of friendship in the morsel. Truly we can be calm "in the sight of (our) foes" (Ps 23:5) if we are united with the Father, Who makes all things work together for the good for those who love Him (Rm 8:28).

Friends we need to examine ourselves in the light of God's truth and grace and ask him to strengthen us in faith, hope, and love that we may not fail him or forsake him when we are tempted. Sometimes, God’s blessings come to us in mysterious ways; through pain and trouble but may we have hope and trust in him who is ever-present help in trouble. May the blessings of God abide in us as we put our trust and hope in him. Lets be united in prayers.

BISHOPS DON'T BE TOO BUSY FOR YOUR PRIESTS SAYS POPE FRANCIS. MAR 21

Bishops Should Never Be Too Busy for Their Priests, Says Pope

In episcopal ordination of Tulsa native, Francis outlines prelates’ priorities

A bishop’s first task is prayer, Pope Francis reiterated on Saturday, the feast of St. Joseph, adding that it makes a person weep to see that there are bishops who are “too busy” to meet with their priests.

The Pope said this during the celebration of the episcopal ordination of Msgr. Miguel Ángel Ayuso Guixit, M.C.C.J., Spain, currently secretary of the Pontifical Council for Interreligious Dialogue, and Msgr. Peter Bryan Wells, apostolic nuncio in South Africa, Botswana, Lesotho and Namibia.

The homily pronounced during the celebration was substantially the ritual homily in the Italian edition of the Roman Pontifical for the ordination of bishops, to which the Pope added some further reflections, a Vatican translation of which is provided here:

“It is Christ, indeed, Who in the ministry of the bishop continues to preach the Gospel of salvation and to sanctify believers through the sacraments of the faith. … It is Christ Who preaches, Christ Who makes the Church, makes the Church fruitful, Christ Who guides: this is the bishop”, emphasised Francis. “The episcopate is a service, not an honour. Therefore, the bishop must first live for the faithful, and not only preside over them; because, according to the Lord’s mandate, the greatest must make himself the smallest, and he who presides must serve humbly. Be servants of all, from the greatest to the least among us. Of all, but always servants, in service.”

“Proclaim the Word at every occasion, opportune or otherwise. … Do not forget that the first task of the bishop is prayer. This Peter said, the day of the election of the seven deacons. The second task is the proclamation of the World. The others follow. But the first is prayer. If a bishop does not pray, he can do nothing. To the Church entrusted to you be faithful guardians and dispensers of the mysteries of Christ, and placed by the Father at the head of His family, always follow the example of the Good Shepherd, Who knows His sheep: behind every paper you receive there is a person. Behind every letter you receive, there is a person. May every person be known to you, and may you be capable of knowing them.”

“Love like a father and a brother those that God places in your care, especially presbyters and deacons,” continued Pope Francis. “It makes one weep to hear that a priest has asked to speak with his bishop and the secretary tells him, ‘He has many commitments, for the next three months he cannot receive you.’ The closest to the bishop is his presbyter. If you do not love the closest to you, you will not be able to love everyone. Be close to priests, deacons, your collaborators in the ministry; be close to the poor, the helpless, and those who are in need of welcome and help. Look the faithful in the eyes! Not obliquely, but in the eyes, to see into the heart. And may your faithful, whether he may be a priest, a deacon or a layperson, see into your heart. But always look people in the eyes.”

Related: Pope’s address to bishops in the US, in which he said, “What is the first job of bishops? To pray”

“Watch over with love all the flock where the Holy Spirit has placed you to sustain God’s Church. And do this in the name of the Father, whose image you render present; His Son, of whom you are constituted teachers, priests and pastors, and in the name of the Holy Spirit, Who gives life to the Church and whose power supports us in our weakness. May the Lord accompany you, and be close to you on the path you undertake today.”

Monsignor Wells is of the clergy of the Diocese of Tulsa, Oklahoma. He was born on 12 May in Tulsa ordained a priest on 12 July 1991, and appointed titular archbishop of Marcianopolis on 9 February 2016.

Monsignor Ayuso is a priest of the Institute of the Combonian Missionaries of the Heart of Jesus. He was born on 17 June 1952 in Seville, Spain, ordained a priest on 20 September 1980 and appointed titular bishop of Luperciania on 29 January 2016.

SAINT OF THE DAY MAR 22 ( Saint Nicholas Owen )

22 March
Tuesday of Holy Week (2016)
Saint Nicholas Owen

Also known as

• John Owen
• Little John

Additional Memorial

25 October as one of the Forty Martyrs of England and Wales

Profile

Son of a carpenter, Nicholas was raised in a family dedicated to the persecuted Church, and became a capenter and mason. Two of his brothers became priests, another a printer of underground Catholic books, and Nicholas used his building skills to save the lives of priests and help the Church‘s covert work in England.

Nicholas worked with Saint Edmund Campion, sometimes using the pseudonym John Owen; his short stature led to the nickname Little John. When Father Edmund was martyred, Nicholas spoke out against the atrocity. For his trouble, he was imprisoned.

Father Henry Garnet, Superior of English Jesuits, employed Nicholas to construct hiding places and escape routes in the various mansions used as priest-centers throughout England. By day he worked at the mansion on regular wood- and stone-working jobs at the mansions so that no one would question his presence; by night he worked alone, digging tunnels, creating hidden passages and rooms in the house. Some of his rooms were large enough to hold cramped, secretive prayer services, but most were a way for single clerics to escape the priest-hunters. As there were no records of his work, there is no way of knowing how many of these hiding places he built, or how many hundreds of priests he saved. The anti-Catholic authorities eventually learned that the hiding places existed, but had no idea who was doing the work, or how many there were.

Due to the work, the danger, and the periodic arrests of the Jesuits, Nicholas never had a formal novitiate, but he did receive instruction, and in 1577 became a Jesuit Brother. On 23 April 1594 he was arrested in London and lodged in the Tower of London for his association with Father John Gerard. Not knowing who they had, the authorities released Nicholas soon after, and he resumed his work.

On 5 November 1605, Brother Nicholas and three other Jesuits were forced to hide in Hinlip Hall, a structure with at least 13 of his hiding places, to escape the priest-hunters. Owen spent four days in one of his secret rooms, but having no food or water, he finally surrendered and was taken to a London prison. There he was endlessly tortured for information on the underground network of priests and their hiding. He was abused so violently that on 1 March 1606, while suspended from a wall, chained by his wrists, with weights on his ankles, his stomach split open, spilling his intestines to the floor; he survived for hours before dying from the wound. Because he was under orders not to kill Nicholas, the torturer spread the lie that Owen had committed suicide. Martyr.

Born

16th century Oxford, England

Died

tortured to death on 2 March 1606 in London, England

Beatified

15 December 1929 by Pope Pius XI

Canonized

25 October 1970 by Pope Paul VI

TODAYS REFLECTION HOLY WEEK TUES MAR 22

TODAYS REFLECTION HOLY WEEK TUES  MAR 22 (Is 49:1-6, Jn 13 :21 -33, 36 -38 )

#AREYOUPETERORJUDASYOUCANSTILMAKEATURNBACK#

Beloved, the gospel today, however, reminds us that as the disciples were with Jesus in these last days, there was a lot of secrecy and confusion; it is clear that the disciples did not understand what was happening.  I imagine the question, “What lies ahead?” had to be at the forefront in many of the disciples’ minds. As Jesus announced to them at the Last Supper that one of His twelve apostles would betray Him (Jn 13:21). "They looked at one another, puzzled as to whom He could mean" (Jn 13:22).

These men had been together for three years. Although they knew each other's strengths and weaknesses thoroughly, they were puzzled as to which of them might be a betrayer. Judas deliberately betrayed his Master while Peter, in a moment of weakness, denied him with an oath and a curse. Judas' act was cold and calculated. John says that Satan entered into Judas when he rejected Jesus and left to pursue his evil course. Satan can twist love and turn it into hate. He can turn holiness into pride, discipline into cruelty, affection into complacency.

Peter, however, never meant to do what he did. He acted impulsively, out of weakness and cowardice. Jesus knew both the strength of Peter's loyalty and the weakness of his resolution. He had a habit of speaking with his heart without thinking through the implications of what he was saying. Friends lets be on our guard lest Satan turn us from the love of God and the path which God has chosen for us. May we submit to Jesus so that we can walk in the way of his light and truth. Lets be united in prayers.

SAINT OF THE DAY MAR 21 ( Benedicta Cambiagio Frassinello )

21 March
Monday of Holy Week (2016)Saint Benedicta Cambiagio Frassinello

Also known as

• Benedetta Cambiagio Frassinello
• Benedikta Frassinello
• Benedetta Cambiagio

Profile

Daughter of Giuseppe and Francesca Cambiagio, she grew up in Pavia, Italy. At the age of 20 she had a profound mystical experience that left her devoted to prayer and desiring a religious life. However, to go along with her family's wishes, she married Giovanni Battista Frassinella on 7 February 1816. The couple had a normal married life for two years, but Giovanni, impressed with Benedicta's holiness and desire for religious life, agreed to live continently. The two took care of Benedicta's little sister Maria until the girl's death from intestinal cancer in 1825. Giovanni then joined the Somaschan Fathers, Benedicta became an Ursuline nun.

In 1826 ill health forced Benedicta to return home to Pavia. There she began to work with young women in the area. The work sent so well that her husband Giovanni was assigned to help. The schools continued to grow and prosper, and Benedicta was appointed Promoter of Public Instruction in Pavia. However, no matter how chastely they lived, Benedicta and Giovanni's unusual relationship drew gossip and criticism from civil and Church authorities. To insure that she did not get in the way of the work, in 1838 Benedicta turned her work over to the bishop of Pavia, and withdrew to live as a nun at Ronco Scrivia, Italy.

Not content to withdraw from the world, Benedicta began all over. With five companions, she founded the Congregation of the Benedictine Sisters of Providence dedicated to teaching, and opened another school. Living alone, the local authorities found no causes for gossip, and Benedicta spent her remaining years in prayer and service.

Born

2 October 1791 at Langasco, Campomorone, Italy as Benedetta Cambiagio

Died

21 March 1858 at Ronco Scrivia, Italy of natural causes

Venerated

6 July 1985 by Pope John Paul II (decree of heroic virtues)

Beatified

10 May 1987 by Pope John Paul II

Canonized

19 May 2002 by Pope John Paul II at Rome, Italy.

TODAYS REFLECTION HOLY WEEK MON MAR 21

TODAYS REFLECTION, HOLY WEEK MON MAR 21 ( Is 42:1-7, Jn 12 :1- 11 )

#THEPOWEROFEXTRAVAGANTLOVE#

Friends here comes another HOLY WEEK, we can express our love to the Lord in new ways.  He comes to us this Holy Week "not crying out, not shouting, not making His voice heard in the street, comes quietly and gently. Jesus calls us to respond to Him this Holy Week as  Mary of Bethany did. He wants us to passionately, boldly, and extravagantly throw ourselves at His feet and anoint Him with the perfume of our love (Jn 12:3).

Mary does something which only love can do. She took the most precious thing she had and spent it all on Jesus. Her love was not CALCULATED BUT EXTRAVAGANT. Mary's action was motivated by one thing, and one thing only, namely, her love for Jesus and her gratitude for Gods mercy. She did something, however, a Jewish woman would never do in public. She loosed her hair and anointed Jesus with her tears.

MARY took no thought for what others would think, but what would please her Lord. In humility she stooped to anoint Jesus' feet and to dry them with her hair. How do you anoint the Lord's feet and show him your love and gratitude? The Lord Jesus showed us the extravagance of his love in giving the best he had by pouring out his own blood for our sake and by anointing us with his Holy Spirit. May we appreciate our Lord Jesus this week in prayers and meditation and caring for the sick visiting the needy and loving him in our neighbours. JESUS FOR THE SAKE OF YOUR SORROWFUL PASSION HAVE MERCY ON US AND ON THE WHOLE WORLD.

SAINT OF THE DAY MAR 19 ( Solemnity of Saint Joseph, Spouse of the Blessed Virgin Mary)

19 March
Solemnity of Saint Joseph, Spouse of the Blessed Virgin Mary

Pope Francis's

General Prayer Intention for March: Families in Difficulty - That families in need may receive the necessary support and that children may grow up in healthy and peaceful environments.

Pope Francis's Evangelization Prayer Intention for March: Persecuted Christians - That those Christians who, on account of their faith, are discriminated against or are being persecuted, may remain strong and faithful to the Gospel, thanks to the incessant prayer of the Church.

Saint Joseph, Spouse of the Blessed Virgin Mary

Also known as

• Joseph of Nazareth
• Joseph the Artisan
• Joseph the Betrothed

Profile

Descendant of the house of David. Layman. Builder by trade; traditionally a carpenter, but may have been a stone worker. Earthly spouse of the Blessed Virgin Mary. Foster and adoptive father of Jesus Christ. Visionary who was visited by angels. Noted for his willingness to immediately get up and do what God told him to do.

Died

1st century, prior to the Passion, of natural causes

Name Meaning

whom the Lord adds (Joseph)

Patronage

against doubt, against hesitation, accountants, attornies, barristers, bursars, cabinetmakers, carpenters, cemetery workers, children, civil engineers, confectioners, craftsmen, dying people, educators, emigrants, exiles, expectant mothers, families, fathers, furniture makers, grave diggers, happy death, holy death, house hunters, immigrants, interior souls, joiners, laborers, lawyers, married people, orphans, people in doubt, people who fight Communism, pioneers, pregnant women, social justice, solicitors, teachers, travellers, unborn children, wheelwrights, workers, working people, Catholic Church, Oblates of Saint Joseph, for protection of the Church, Universal Church, Vatican II, Americas, Austria, Belgium, Bohemia, Canada, China, Croatian people, Korea, Mexico, New France, New World, Peru, Philippines, Vatican City, Viet Nam, Canadian Armed Forces, Papal States, 46 dioceses, 26 cities, states and regions

Representation

• bible
• branch
• carpenter's square
• carpenter's tools
• chalice
• cross
• hand tools
• infant Jesus
• ladder
• lamb
• lily
• monstrance
• old man holding a lily and a carpenter's tool such as a square
• old man holding the infant Jesus
• plane
• rod

Readings

He was chosen by the eternal Father as the trustworthy guardian and protector of his greatest treasures, namely, his divine Son and Mary, Joseph's wife. He carried out this vocation with complete fidelity until at last God called him, saying 'Good and faithful servant, enter into the joy of your Lord.' - from a sermon by Saint Bernardine of Siena

What emanates from the figure of Saint Joseph is faith. Joseph of Nazareth is a "just man" because he totally "lives by faith." He is holy because his faith is truly heroic. Sacred Scripture says little of him. It does not record even one word spoken by Joseph, the carpenter of Nazareth. And yet, even without words, he shows the depth of his faith, his greatness. Saint Joseph is a man of great spirit. He is great in faith, not because he speaks his own words, but above all because he listens to the words of the Living God. He listens in silence. And his heart ceaselessly perseveres in the readiness to accept the Truth contained in the word of the Living God. We see how the word of the Living God penetrates deeply into the soul of that man, that just man. And we, do we know how to listen to the word of God? Do we know how to absorb it into the depths of our human personalities? Do we open our conscience in the presence of this word? - Pope John Paul II from Daily Meditations

Saint Joseph, guardian of Jesus and chaste husband of Mary, you passed your life in loving fulfillment of duty. You supported the holy family of Nazareth with the work of your hands. Kindly protect those who trustingly come to you. You know their aspirations, their hardships, their hopes. They look to you because they know you will understand and protect them. You too knew trial, labor and weariness. But amid the worries of material life, your soul was full of deep peace and sang out in true joy through intimacy with God's Son entrusted to you and with Mary, his tender Mother. Assure those you protect that they do not labor alone. Teach them to find Jesus near them and to watch over Him faithfully as you have done. Amen. - Blessed Pope John XXIII

TODAYS REFLECTION 5TH WEEK OF LENT SAT MAR 19

TODAYS REFLECTION,  Solemnity of Saint Joseph, husband of the Blessed Virgin Mary, SAT MAR 19 (  2 Sam 7: 4-17,  12-4a, 16, Rm 4:13, 16-18, 22, Mt 1:16, 18-21, 24a ).

Friends, God has a wonderful plan of salvation (Eph 1:9-10). For example, St. Joseph's part in God's plan was to be the foster-father of Jesus and husband of Mary (Mt 1:20ff) Today is the solemnity of Saint Joseph, the husband of Mary and the earthly father of Jesus. He was the man that Mary, the mother of Jesus, had chosen to spend the rest of her life with, and he, in turn, had chosen her.

The Gospel tells us Joseph was a righteous man. He was compelled to do what was right according to the Law, yet, he loved Mary. I imagined he prayed about this for a while, I can see him being mad at God, asking God “Why this? We had such a wonderful relationship, we had so many dreams together…” And God listened to Joseph. Joseph decided he was not going to expose Mary publicly, but he was going to leave her quietly.

Beloved, Joseph had cultivated a deep relationship with God throughout his life and was open to receive God’s gift of being the person who would help educate Jesus, the Messiah. In this relationship, Joseph was not in control and this was fine because he trusted the One in control. Friends during this remaining Lent season and the coming Easter season, let’s pray for an open and trusting heart. Let’s pray for the courage to receive God’s gifts openheartedly and with gratitude the way Joseph did. May the fear and love of God fill our hearts. Wishing you Saturday blessings.

TODAYS MORAL LESSON MAR 18 ( STOP THINKING MUCH)

A stressed man was in his office
thinking deeply. Suddenly a man ran
inside shouting, "Peter!! Peter....!!!
Peter!! Your daughter Tonia just had
an accident and died."
Shocked and confused, he jumps
out of the office window. As soon as
he jumped, he remembered his
office is on the 7th floor, as he
descends lower he remembered that
he doesn't have a daughter called
Tonia. Still descending he
remembered he is not even
married. Just two floors before he
hits the ground, he remembered
that his name is not even Peter......
Luckily, he wasn't injured because
he fell on top of a lorry carrying
mattress.
MORAL LESSON:
stop thinking too much, try and live
a stress free life.
Pray everyday and God will help you
overcome stress.

SAINT OF THE DAY MAR 18 ( ST CYRIL OF JERUSALEM )

18 March
Optional Memorial of Saint Cyril of Jerusalem, Bishop and Doctor of the ChurchSaint Cyril of Jerusalem

Also known as

Cirillo, Kyrillos

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Raised a Christian in Jerusalem. Well educated, especially in religion. Priest, ordained by Saint Maximus. A great teacher of catechumens, Cyril's instructions are still source documents for the Church's early teachings. Bishop of Jerusalem in 348. Exiled three times by the Arians, usually on some trumped up charge like selling church furniture, but actually on theological grounds. Attended the Council of Seleucia in 359. Attended the Council of Constantinople in 381. Greek Father of the Church. Doctor of the Church.

Born

315

Died

386 of natural causes

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Then during the Eucharistic prayer we make mention also of those who have already fallen asleep: first, the patriarchs, prophets, apostles, and martyrs, that through their prayers and supplications God would receive our petition. - Saint Cyril: Catechetical Lectures, 350AD

It is not only among us, who are marked with the name of Christ, that the dignity of faith is great; all the business of the world, even of those outside the Church, is accomplished by faith. By faith, marriage laws join in union persons who were strangers to one another. By faith, agriculture is sustained; for a man does not endure the toil involved unless he believes he will reap a harvest. By faith, seafaring men, entrusting themselves to a tiny wooden craft, exchange the solid element of the land for the unstable motion of the waves. Not only among us does this hold true but also, as I have said, among those outside the fold. For though they do not accept the Scriptures but advance certain doctrines of their own, yet even these they receive on faith. - Saint Cyril of Jerusalem (Catechesis V)

Our actions have a tongue of their own; they have an eloquence of their own, even when the tongue is silent. For deeds prove the lover more than words. - Saint Cyril of Jerusalem

Children of justice, follow John's exhortation: "Make straight the way of the Lord." Remove all obstacles and stumbling blocks so that you will be able to go straight along the road to eternal life. Through a sincere faith prepare yourselves so that you may be free to receive the Holy Spirit. My brothers, this is truly a great occasion. Approach it with caution. You are standing in front of God and in the presence of the hosts of angels. The Holy Spirit is about to impress his seal on each of your souls. You are about to be pressed into the service of a great king. And so prepare yourselves to receive the sacrament. The gleaming white garments you are about to put on are not the preparation I am speaking of, but rather the devotion of a clean conscience. - from a catechetical instruction by Saint Cyril of Jerusalem to those preparing for baptism and confirmation

Since Christ Himself has said, "This is My Body" who shall dare to doubt that It is His Body? - Saint Cyril of Jerusalem

It is not only among us, who are marked with the name of Christ, that the dignity of faith is great; all the business of the world, even of those outside the Church, is accomplished by faith. By faith, marriage laws join in union persons who were strangers to one another. By faith, agriculture is sustained; for a man does not endure the toil involved unless he believes he will reap a harvest. By faith, seafaring men, entrusting themselves to a tiny wooden craft, exchange the solid element of the land for the unstable motion of the waves. Not only among us does this hold true but also, as I have said, among those outside the fold. For though they do not accept the Scriptures but advance certain doctrines of their own, yet even these they receive on faith. - Saint Cyril of Jerusalem, from Catechesis V

TODAYS REFLECTION 5TH WEEK OF LENT FRI MAR 18

TODAYS REFLECTION 5TH WEEK OF LENT FRI MAR 18 ( Jer 20: 10-13, Jn 10: 31-43  )

#VENGEANCEBELONGSTOGODWHOSEESALL#

In the first reading we see Jeremiah, a prophet during the reign of Judah’s five last kings, challenges the community to turn away from the idols that became a center for their lives. His own people turn against him to the point of his life being threatened.  Jeremiah knows their history of sin and grace and turns to God for help in any way possible. He is desperate! Out of his experience of a faithful God, he asks God for vengeance.

God is a God of peace and nonviolence who desires an intimate relationship. Jesus, on the other hand, announces a new covenant and presents a vision not of a vengeful God but a loving God.  He calls God his Father who consecrated him and sent him into the world. Today we see, once again in the gospel where Jesus is threatened by his own people. He doesn’t seem to be living up to their expectations of a Messiah. Blasphemer! they call him. Soon they will cry out CRUCIFY HIM.

Given both experiences, people, and a nation were threatened by the GOOD. God is interrupting their lives and they responded with death to the messenger. Nelson Mandela after He was imprisoned in opposition to apartheid said “Resentment (vengeance) is like drinking poison and hoping it will kill your enemies.” Here we are in the Fifth Week of Lent. We are about to walk with Jesus to Jerusalem and to his death, may we look into our thoughts and actions, Is it rooted in vengeance or love, loss or trust, individualism or relationship, community, and the greater GOOD? May the Lord be near to always assist us. Have a blessed weekend.

POPE EMERITUS BREAKS SILENCE....

Pope Emeritus Benedict breaks silence: speaks of ‘deep crisis’ facing Church post-Vatican II

March 16, 2016 (LifeSiteNews.com) -- On March 16, speaking publicly on a rare occasion, Pope Benedict XVI gave aninterview to Avvenire, the daily newspaper of the Italian Bishops' Conference, in which he spoke of a “two-sided deep crisis” the Church is facing in the wake of the Second Vatican Council. The report has already hit Germany courtesy of Vaticanist Guiseppe Nardi, of the German Catholic news website Katholisches.info.

Pope Benedict reminds us of the formerly indispensable Catholic conviction of the possibility of the loss of eternal salvation, or that people go to hell:

The missionaries of the 16th century were convinced that the unbaptized person is lost forever. After the [Second Vatican] Council, this conviction was definitely abandoned. The result was a two-sided, deep crisis. Without this attentiveness to the salvation, the Faith loses its foundation.

He also speaks of a “profound evolution of Dogma” with respect to the Dogma that there is no salvation outside the Church. This purported change of dogma has led, in the pope's eyes, to a loss of the missionary zeal in the Church – “any motivation for a future missionary commitment was removed.”

Pope Benedict asks the piercing question that arose after this palpable change of attitude of the Church: “Why should you try to convince the people to accept the Christian faith when they can be saved even without it?”

As to the other consequences of this new attitude in the Church, Catholics themselves, in Benedict's eyes, are less attached to their Faith: If there are those who can save their souls with other means, “why should the Christian be bound to the necessity of the Christian Faith and its morality?” asked the pope. And he concludes: “But if Faith and Salvation are not any more interdependent, even Faith becomes less motivating.”

Pope Benedict also refutes both the idea of the “anonymous Christian” as developed by Karl Rahner, as well as the indifferentist idea that all religions are equally valuable and helpful to attain eternal life.

“Even less acceptable is the solution proposed by the pluralistic theories of religion, for which all religions, each in its own way, would be ways of salvation and, in this sense, must be considered equivalent  in their effects,” he said. In this context, he also touches upon the exploratory  ideas of the now-deceased Jesuit Cardinal, Henri de Lubac, about Christ's putatively “vicarious substitutions” which have to be now again “further reflected upon.” 

With regard to man's relation to technology and to love, Pope Benedict reminds us of the importance of human affection, saying that man still yearns in his heart “that the Good Samaritan come to his aid.”

He continues: “In the harshness of the world of technology – in which feelings do not count anymore – the hope for a saving love grows, a love which would be given freely and generously.”

Benedict also reminds his audience that: “The Church is not self-made, it was created by God and is continuously formed by Him. This finds expression in the Sacraments, above all in that of Baptism: I enter into the Church not by a bureaucratic act, but with the help of this Sacrament.” Benedict also insists that, always, “we need Grace and forgiveness.”