Christian Identity

Today's Readings:
Eph 4:1-6
Ps 24:1-6
Lk 12:54-59

Saint Paul reminds us today that in order for us to lay claim to our Christian identity, we must first 'live in a manner worthy of the call you have received." In other words, people should know that we are Christian by our actions long before they hear us proclaim who we are. Truly we are now brothers and sisters with the Lord, and each other, by our one common baptism; but if we do not live a life in accord with this calling, than we fail to truly live up to the name 'Christian'. Today let truly strive to live up to that calling by doing as St. Paul urges us to do: live a life of humility and gentleness, with patience, bearing with one another through love, striving to preserve the unity of the sprit through the bond of peace. May God Bless you all and have a great day.

St. Anthony Mary Claret
Claretian archbishop and founder. Anthony was born in Salient in Catalonia, Spain, in 1807, the son of a weaver. He took up weaving but then studied for the priesthood, desiring to be a Jesuit. Ill health prevented his entering the Order, and he served as a secular priest. In 1849, he founded the Missionary Sons of the Immaculate Heart of Mary, known today as the Claretians, and the Apostolic Training Institute of the Immaculate Conception, Claretian nuns. From 1850 to 1857, Anthony served as the archbishop of Santiago de Cuba, Cuba. He returned to the court of Queen Isabella II as confessor, and went into exile with her in 1868. In 1869 and 1870, Anthony participated in the First Vatican Council. He died in the Cistercian monastery of Fontfroide in southern France on October 24, 1870. Anthony Mary Claret had the gift of prophecy and performed many miracles. He was opposed by the liberal forces of Spain and Cuba and endured many trials.