Today's Readings:
Heb 10:32-39
Ps 37:3-6, 23-24, 39-40
Mk 4:26-34
Jesus speaks about the Kingdom of God in our Gospel today, likening it to a mustard seed. Our faith is very much like that seed; it starts out small but through care and nurturing it, the seed begins to grow. Our faith must also be nurtured and cared for if we want it to grow. We do this through constant prayer and by living out the Gospel message in our daily lives, by doing this our faith becomes stronger and we bring about the God's Kingdom. Today let us expose the seed of faith we all have been given to the light of God's grace and allow it to guide us throughout this day and all of our life. Have a great day and God Bless
Saint of the Day - St. Bathildis
The story begins around the year 630. A frightened, Christian English girl could have never imagined what her future would be like. What she did know was that she had been kidnapped and was on a pirate ship. Where was she going? Who could she ask? Finally, the ship docked and she heard people saying they were in France. Bathildis was quickly sold as a slave to the manager of King Clovis' palace. The rest of the story is like a Cinderella fairy tale, except that this tale is really true. The quiet girl paid careful attention as her chores were explained or demonstrated to her. Day after day, she went from one task to another doing the very best she could. She was shy and gentle, but even King Clovis began to notice her. The more he observed, the more he was impressed. This was the kind of girl who would make a wonderful wife-even a king's wife. In 649, Clovis married Bathildis. The little slave girl had become the queen. They had three sons. Clovis died when the oldest son was only five, so Bathildis would be ruler of France until her sons grew up. It must have been surprising to just about everybody that Bathildis could rule so wisely. She remembered too well what it was like to be poor. She remembered also her years as a slave. She had been sold as if she were a "thing of little value." Bathildis wanted everyone to know how precious they were to God. She was filled with love for Jesus and his Church. She used her position to help the Church in every way she could. She did not be-come proud or arrogant. Rather, she cared for the poor. She also protected people from being captured and treated as slaves. She filled France with hospitals. She started a seminary to train priests and a convent for nuns. Later, Queen Bathildis entered the convent herself. As a nun, she set aside her royal dignity. She became one of the nuns, humble and obedient. She never demanded or even expected that other people should wait on her. She was also very kind and gentle with the sick. When she became ill, she suffered a long, painful illness until her death on January 30, 680.
Reflection: Our lives don’t always follow the pattern of fairy-tales, but through the life of St. Bathildis we can learn to hope in God’s providence and loving care for us.
Saint information comes from: http://www.holyspiritinteractive.net/dailysaint/january/0130.asp
Friday, January 30, 2009
Monday, January 26, 2009
Proclaim the Good News
Today's Readings:
2 Tim 1:1-8 or Titus 1:1-5
Ps 96:1-3. 7-8, 10
Mk 3:22-30
Today we celebrate the Feast of Saints Timothy & Titus, whose lives we hear about through St. Paul's letters. Both heard the Gospel proclaimed to them and from there they took what the heard and spread it to all nations. We too are called to do the same, to hear the Word of God, and to act upon that that Word; to truly make Christ present to the world in all that we do and say. Today let us spend some time with God's Word and allow it to move us into action, so that we too may proclaim the Gospel of God in all that we do. Have a great day and God Bless
Saint of the Day - St. Timothy & St. Titus
Besides being saints and bishops in the early Church, these two men have something else in common. Both received the gift of faith through the preaching of St. Paul. Timothy was born in Lycaonia in Asia Minor. His mother was a Jew and his father was a Gentile. When Paul came to preach in Lycaonia, Timothy, his mother and his grandmother all became Christians. Several years later, Paul went back and found Timothy grown up. He felt that Timothy had a call from God to be a missionary. Paul invited him to join him in preaching the Gospel. So it was that Timothy left his home and parents to follow Paul. He was soon to share in Paul's sufferings as well. They would have the joy of bringing the Word of God to many people. Timothy was the great apostle's beloved disciple, like a son to him. He went everywhere with Paul until he became bishop of Ephesus. Then Timothy stayed there to shepherd his people. As St. Paul, Timothy, too, died a martyr. Titus was a Gentile nonbeliever. He, too, became Paul's disciple. Titus was generous and hard-working. He joyfully preached the Good News with Paul on their missionary travels. Because Titus was so trustworthy, Paul freely sent him on many "missions" to the Christian communities. Titus helped people strengthen their faith in Jesus. He was able to restore peace when there were arguments among the Christians. Titus had a special gift for being a peacemaker. Paul appreciated this gift in Titus and recognized it as the Holy Spirit's work. Paul would send Titus to iron out difficulties. When Titus would arrive among a group of Christians, the guilty ones would feel sorry. They would ask forgiveness and would make up for what they had done. When peace was restored, Titus would go back and tell Paul about the good results. This brought Paul and the first Christians much happiness. St. Paul made Titus bishop of the island of Crete, where he stayed until his death.
Reflection: "Preach the word, be urgent in season and out of season, convince, rebuke, and exhort, be unfailing in patience and in teaching." (2 Tm 4:2)
Saint information comes from: http://www.holyspiritinteractive.net/dailysaint/january/0126.asp
2 Tim 1:1-8 or Titus 1:1-5
Ps 96:1-3. 7-8, 10
Mk 3:22-30
Today we celebrate the Feast of Saints Timothy & Titus, whose lives we hear about through St. Paul's letters. Both heard the Gospel proclaimed to them and from there they took what the heard and spread it to all nations. We too are called to do the same, to hear the Word of God, and to act upon that that Word; to truly make Christ present to the world in all that we do and say. Today let us spend some time with God's Word and allow it to move us into action, so that we too may proclaim the Gospel of God in all that we do. Have a great day and God Bless
Saint of the Day - St. Timothy & St. Titus
Besides being saints and bishops in the early Church, these two men have something else in common. Both received the gift of faith through the preaching of St. Paul. Timothy was born in Lycaonia in Asia Minor. His mother was a Jew and his father was a Gentile. When Paul came to preach in Lycaonia, Timothy, his mother and his grandmother all became Christians. Several years later, Paul went back and found Timothy grown up. He felt that Timothy had a call from God to be a missionary. Paul invited him to join him in preaching the Gospel. So it was that Timothy left his home and parents to follow Paul. He was soon to share in Paul's sufferings as well. They would have the joy of bringing the Word of God to many people. Timothy was the great apostle's beloved disciple, like a son to him. He went everywhere with Paul until he became bishop of Ephesus. Then Timothy stayed there to shepherd his people. As St. Paul, Timothy, too, died a martyr. Titus was a Gentile nonbeliever. He, too, became Paul's disciple. Titus was generous and hard-working. He joyfully preached the Good News with Paul on their missionary travels. Because Titus was so trustworthy, Paul freely sent him on many "missions" to the Christian communities. Titus helped people strengthen their faith in Jesus. He was able to restore peace when there were arguments among the Christians. Titus had a special gift for being a peacemaker. Paul appreciated this gift in Titus and recognized it as the Holy Spirit's work. Paul would send Titus to iron out difficulties. When Titus would arrive among a group of Christians, the guilty ones would feel sorry. They would ask forgiveness and would make up for what they had done. When peace was restored, Titus would go back and tell Paul about the good results. This brought Paul and the first Christians much happiness. St. Paul made Titus bishop of the island of Crete, where he stayed until his death.
Reflection: "Preach the word, be urgent in season and out of season, convince, rebuke, and exhort, be unfailing in patience and in teaching." (2 Tm 4:2)
Saint information comes from: http://www.holyspiritinteractive.net/dailysaint/january/0126.asp
Friday, January 23, 2009
Response to God
Today's Readings:
Heb 8:6-13
Ps 88:8, 10-14
Mk 3:13-19
Throughout history, our God has continually tried to have a relationship with his people; creating covenants, sending prophets, and calling people to himself. In the fullness of time he even sent his own Son, born in our human likeness to live and die so that we might have life and become more like him. He gives us his very self in the Sacrament of the Eucharist, so that we may even be considered sons and daughters along with Christ. How have we responded back? Have we responded back? Today let us truly give ourselves to our Lord and God and truly live out that Scripture verse that states "I will write my laws upon their hearts and they will be my people and I will be their God." Have a great day and God Bless
Saint of the Day - St. John the Almsgiver
John was a dedicated Christian nobleman. He used his wealth and position to help poor people. After his wife passed away, John became a priest and bishop. In 608, he was consecrated the patriarch of Alexandria, Egypt. What could people expect of this man who now had such an important position? St. John went to his new ministry focused on healing the divisions among his people. He pledged himself to practice a "charity without limits." The first thing he did was ask for a complete list of his "masters." He was asked to explain. He meant the poor. When they were counted, the poor of Alexandria numbered 7,500. St. John pledged to be their personal protector. As patriarch, St. John proclaimed laws and issued reforms. He was respectful and kind, but firm. He devoted two days each week, Wednesday and Friday, to making himself available for anyone who wished to see him. People lined up and waited patiently for their turn. Some were rich. Some were homeless and destitute. All received the same respect and attention. When he found out that the church treasury had eighty thousand pieces of gold, he divided it all among the hospitals and monasteries. He set up a system so that poor people received adequate money and means to support themselves. Refugees from neighboring areas were welcomed warmly. After the Persians had plundered Jerusalem, St. John sent money and supplies to the suffering people. He even sent Egyptian workmen to assist in rebuilding the churches there. When people wanted to know how St. John could be so charitable and unselfish, he had an amazing answer. Once when he was very young he had a dream or vision. He saw a beautiful girl and he realized that she represented "charity." She told him: "I am the oldest daughter of the King. If you are devoted to me, I will lead you to Jesus. No one is as powerful with him as I am. Remember, it was for me that he became a baby to redeem humankind." St. John never tired of telling about that vision. He gently led the rich to be generous. He helped the poor trust that God would always be there for them. St. John died peacefully on November 11, 619. Because of his great charity, he is called "the almsgiver."
Reflection: How often do I close my eyes to the need of people who cry for help? Do I seriously heed Jesus’ invitation to be aware of his presence in others?
Saint information comes from: http://www.holyspiritinteractive.net/dailysaint/january/0123.asp
Heb 8:6-13
Ps 88:8, 10-14
Mk 3:13-19
Throughout history, our God has continually tried to have a relationship with his people; creating covenants, sending prophets, and calling people to himself. In the fullness of time he even sent his own Son, born in our human likeness to live and die so that we might have life and become more like him. He gives us his very self in the Sacrament of the Eucharist, so that we may even be considered sons and daughters along with Christ. How have we responded back? Have we responded back? Today let us truly give ourselves to our Lord and God and truly live out that Scripture verse that states "I will write my laws upon their hearts and they will be my people and I will be their God." Have a great day and God Bless
Saint of the Day - St. John the Almsgiver
John was a dedicated Christian nobleman. He used his wealth and position to help poor people. After his wife passed away, John became a priest and bishop. In 608, he was consecrated the patriarch of Alexandria, Egypt. What could people expect of this man who now had such an important position? St. John went to his new ministry focused on healing the divisions among his people. He pledged himself to practice a "charity without limits." The first thing he did was ask for a complete list of his "masters." He was asked to explain. He meant the poor. When they were counted, the poor of Alexandria numbered 7,500. St. John pledged to be their personal protector. As patriarch, St. John proclaimed laws and issued reforms. He was respectful and kind, but firm. He devoted two days each week, Wednesday and Friday, to making himself available for anyone who wished to see him. People lined up and waited patiently for their turn. Some were rich. Some were homeless and destitute. All received the same respect and attention. When he found out that the church treasury had eighty thousand pieces of gold, he divided it all among the hospitals and monasteries. He set up a system so that poor people received adequate money and means to support themselves. Refugees from neighboring areas were welcomed warmly. After the Persians had plundered Jerusalem, St. John sent money and supplies to the suffering people. He even sent Egyptian workmen to assist in rebuilding the churches there. When people wanted to know how St. John could be so charitable and unselfish, he had an amazing answer. Once when he was very young he had a dream or vision. He saw a beautiful girl and he realized that she represented "charity." She told him: "I am the oldest daughter of the King. If you are devoted to me, I will lead you to Jesus. No one is as powerful with him as I am. Remember, it was for me that he became a baby to redeem humankind." St. John never tired of telling about that vision. He gently led the rich to be generous. He helped the poor trust that God would always be there for them. St. John died peacefully on November 11, 619. Because of his great charity, he is called "the almsgiver."
Reflection: How often do I close my eyes to the need of people who cry for help? Do I seriously heed Jesus’ invitation to be aware of his presence in others?
Saint information comes from: http://www.holyspiritinteractive.net/dailysaint/january/0123.asp
Wednesday, January 21, 2009
To Know, Love, and to Serve the Lord
Today's Readings:
Heb 7:1-3, 15-17
Ps 110:1-4
Mk 3:1-6
The Pharisees in the Gospel today are so blinded by their hardness of heart that they can not see the good Jesus does for a person who is in need. Jesus is first angry at them but then grieves for them, for they have blinded themselves not only to the good, but to God. Sometimes we too can get so caught up in ourselves, we forget the true purpose of our life, to know, love, and serve our Lord. Today let us allow Christ to soften our hearts and so help us to see and to serve him in all those around us. Have a great day and God Bless
Saint of the Day - St. Agnes
St. Agnes was a Roman girl who died in 304. She was just twelve years old when she suffered martyrdom for her faith. Although few historical details remain, St. Agnes has always been popular. This is especially because St. Ambrose and other well-known early Church saints have written about her. Agnes loved Jesus so much that she chose only him for her husband. Since she was beautiful, many young men wished to marry her. However, Agnes wanted to give her heart only to Jesus. She would always say, "Jesus is my only husband." She even turned down the governor's son, who became very angry. He tried to win her for his wife with gifts and promises. Agnes just kept telling him, "I am already promised to the Lord." Agnes was accused of being a Christian and brought to the governor. The governor promised Agnes wonderful gifts if she would only deny God, but the girl refused. The governor tried to scare her by putting her in chains, but even then she did not back down. Agnes suffered other tortures. Finally, she was condemned and killed. Agnes is buried in a cemetery named after her. In 354, Emperor Constantine's daughter built a large church there and had Agnes' body placed under the altar. Reflection: How do I respond to the call of the Lord to love— loving to the point of forgetting myself for the sake of others and giving myself without counting?
Saint information comes from: http://www.holyspiritinteractive.net/dailysaint/january/0121.asp
Heb 7:1-3, 15-17
Ps 110:1-4
Mk 3:1-6
The Pharisees in the Gospel today are so blinded by their hardness of heart that they can not see the good Jesus does for a person who is in need. Jesus is first angry at them but then grieves for them, for they have blinded themselves not only to the good, but to God. Sometimes we too can get so caught up in ourselves, we forget the true purpose of our life, to know, love, and serve our Lord. Today let us allow Christ to soften our hearts and so help us to see and to serve him in all those around us. Have a great day and God Bless
Saint of the Day - St. Agnes
St. Agnes was a Roman girl who died in 304. She was just twelve years old when she suffered martyrdom for her faith. Although few historical details remain, St. Agnes has always been popular. This is especially because St. Ambrose and other well-known early Church saints have written about her. Agnes loved Jesus so much that she chose only him for her husband. Since she was beautiful, many young men wished to marry her. However, Agnes wanted to give her heart only to Jesus. She would always say, "Jesus is my only husband." She even turned down the governor's son, who became very angry. He tried to win her for his wife with gifts and promises. Agnes just kept telling him, "I am already promised to the Lord." Agnes was accused of being a Christian and brought to the governor. The governor promised Agnes wonderful gifts if she would only deny God, but the girl refused. The governor tried to scare her by putting her in chains, but even then she did not back down. Agnes suffered other tortures. Finally, she was condemned and killed. Agnes is buried in a cemetery named after her. In 354, Emperor Constantine's daughter built a large church there and had Agnes' body placed under the altar. Reflection: How do I respond to the call of the Lord to love— loving to the point of forgetting myself for the sake of others and giving myself without counting?
Saint information comes from: http://www.holyspiritinteractive.net/dailysaint/january/0121.asp
Tuesday, January 20, 2009
Promise of God
Today's Readings:
Heb 6:10-20
Ps 111:1-2, 4-5, 9-10
Mk 2:23-28
Our reading from Hebrews stresses the assurance we can take in God's promise to us. Just as he fulfilled his promise to Abraham, so will he fulfill his promise to us in Christ if we believe. Throughout the life of Abraham, he trusted that God would make good on the promise he had made; let us who have and even greater promise, the promise of eternal life, not give up hope either. Today let us recommit ourselves to Christ and to his oath that he will be with us until the end of time. Let us be assured that our Lord is at our side and with him all things are possible. Have a great day and God Bless
Saint of the Day - St. Fabian & St. Sebastian
Fabian was a pope who died a martyr in 250. It was during the persecution by Emperor Decius. Early writers say that he was an extraordinary person, known to be very holy. In a letter written shortly after Fabian's death, St. Cyprian explained how Fabian had been elected pope. The group who had gathered to elect the next pope received a real sign that the choice should be Fabian. He was the first layman to be pope. Bishop and martyr, Fabian's remains are now in the basilica of St. Sebastian. And the two martyrs share the same feast day. Sebastian became widely known from the early centuries of the Church. As a Roman captain, he became known for his goodness and bravery. During the persecution by Diocletian, Sebastian would not renounce his Christian faith. Archers shot arrows into his body and left him for dead. When a holy widow came to bury him, she was shocked to find him still alive. She took him to her home and nursed his wounds. When Sebastian was well enough, the widow tried to persuade him to escape the dangers of Rome. But Sebastian was a brave soldier. He would not run away. He even approached Diocletian and urged him to stop persecuting the Christians. The emperor was shocked to see Sebastian alive. He refused to listen to what the soldier had to say. Diocletian ordered that Sebastian be immediately clubbed to death. He died in 288.
Reflection: How often do we act in fear instead of trusting Jesus? Again and again, Jesus invites us to come to him. His love casts out all our fear. All he asks is our trust in him.
Saint information comes from: http://www.holyspiritinteractive.net/dailysaint/january/0120.asp
Heb 6:10-20
Ps 111:1-2, 4-5, 9-10
Mk 2:23-28
Our reading from Hebrews stresses the assurance we can take in God's promise to us. Just as he fulfilled his promise to Abraham, so will he fulfill his promise to us in Christ if we believe. Throughout the life of Abraham, he trusted that God would make good on the promise he had made; let us who have and even greater promise, the promise of eternal life, not give up hope either. Today let us recommit ourselves to Christ and to his oath that he will be with us until the end of time. Let us be assured that our Lord is at our side and with him all things are possible. Have a great day and God Bless
Saint of the Day - St. Fabian & St. Sebastian
Fabian was a pope who died a martyr in 250. It was during the persecution by Emperor Decius. Early writers say that he was an extraordinary person, known to be very holy. In a letter written shortly after Fabian's death, St. Cyprian explained how Fabian had been elected pope. The group who had gathered to elect the next pope received a real sign that the choice should be Fabian. He was the first layman to be pope. Bishop and martyr, Fabian's remains are now in the basilica of St. Sebastian. And the two martyrs share the same feast day. Sebastian became widely known from the early centuries of the Church. As a Roman captain, he became known for his goodness and bravery. During the persecution by Diocletian, Sebastian would not renounce his Christian faith. Archers shot arrows into his body and left him for dead. When a holy widow came to bury him, she was shocked to find him still alive. She took him to her home and nursed his wounds. When Sebastian was well enough, the widow tried to persuade him to escape the dangers of Rome. But Sebastian was a brave soldier. He would not run away. He even approached Diocletian and urged him to stop persecuting the Christians. The emperor was shocked to see Sebastian alive. He refused to listen to what the soldier had to say. Diocletian ordered that Sebastian be immediately clubbed to death. He died in 288.
Reflection: How often do we act in fear instead of trusting Jesus? Again and again, Jesus invites us to come to him. His love casts out all our fear. All he asks is our trust in him.
Saint information comes from: http://www.holyspiritinteractive.net/dailysaint/january/0120.asp
Wednesday, January 14, 2009
Suffering
Today's Readings:
Heb 2:14-18
Ps 105:1-4, 6-9
Mk 1:29-39
God does not create suffering, though through Christ, God knows a lot about it. We do not have a distant God who is not interested in our daily affairs, rather we have a God who chose and chooses to suffer along with his people so that they may one day rejoice. Through our suffering we share in the redemption Christ won for us through his suffering on the cross. Today let us unite any suffering we may have, as well as our joys and triumphs to the triumph of the cross and rejoice in our loving and saving God. Have a great day and God Bless
Saint of the Day - St. Macrina
On January 2, we celebrated the feast of a grandchild of today's saint. St. Basil the Great, who was born around 329, came from a family of saints. Macrina, his father's mother, was one of his favorites. She seems to have raised Basil. As an adult, he praised his grandmother for all the good she had done for him. He especially thanked her openly for having taught him to love the Christian faith from the time he was very small. Macrina and her husband learned the high price of being true to their Christian beliefs. During one of the Roman persecutions of Galerius and Maximinus, Basil's grandparents were forced into hiding. They found refuge in the forest near their home. Somehow they managed to escape their persecutors. They were always hungry and afraid, but they would not give up their faith. Instead, they patiently waited and prayed for the persecution to end. They hunted for food and ate the wild vegetation and somehow survived. This persecution lasted seven years. St. Gregory Nazianzen, who shares Basil's feast day on January 2, recorded these few details. During another persecution, Macrina and her husband had all their property and belongings taken from them. They were left with nothing but their faith and trust in God's care for them. St. Macrina survived her husband but the exact year of each of their deaths is not recorded. It is believed that Macrina died around 340. Her grandchild, Basil, died in 379.
Reflection: I might know someone who suffers much in life. How can I offer hope and joy to this person?
Saint information comes from: http://www.holyspiritinteractive.net/dailysaint/january/0114.asp
Heb 2:14-18
Ps 105:1-4, 6-9
Mk 1:29-39
God does not create suffering, though through Christ, God knows a lot about it. We do not have a distant God who is not interested in our daily affairs, rather we have a God who chose and chooses to suffer along with his people so that they may one day rejoice. Through our suffering we share in the redemption Christ won for us through his suffering on the cross. Today let us unite any suffering we may have, as well as our joys and triumphs to the triumph of the cross and rejoice in our loving and saving God. Have a great day and God Bless
Saint of the Day - St. Macrina
On January 2, we celebrated the feast of a grandchild of today's saint. St. Basil the Great, who was born around 329, came from a family of saints. Macrina, his father's mother, was one of his favorites. She seems to have raised Basil. As an adult, he praised his grandmother for all the good she had done for him. He especially thanked her openly for having taught him to love the Christian faith from the time he was very small. Macrina and her husband learned the high price of being true to their Christian beliefs. During one of the Roman persecutions of Galerius and Maximinus, Basil's grandparents were forced into hiding. They found refuge in the forest near their home. Somehow they managed to escape their persecutors. They were always hungry and afraid, but they would not give up their faith. Instead, they patiently waited and prayed for the persecution to end. They hunted for food and ate the wild vegetation and somehow survived. This persecution lasted seven years. St. Gregory Nazianzen, who shares Basil's feast day on January 2, recorded these few details. During another persecution, Macrina and her husband had all their property and belongings taken from them. They were left with nothing but their faith and trust in God's care for them. St. Macrina survived her husband but the exact year of each of their deaths is not recorded. It is believed that Macrina died around 340. Her grandchild, Basil, died in 379.
Reflection: I might know someone who suffers much in life. How can I offer hope and joy to this person?
Saint information comes from: http://www.holyspiritinteractive.net/dailysaint/january/0114.asp
Tuesday, January 13, 2009
Nature of Christ
Today's Readings:
Heb 2:5-12
Ps 8:2, 5-9
Mk 1:21-28
Both our readings are great testaments to both the humanity and the divinity of Christ. Our God became man so that we could become more like God; this is one of the great mysteries of our faith and yet it is core to our belief that through Jesus, we have been made sons and daughters of the Father. Jesus knew our suffering and through his suffering brought us back to the Father. Today let us give thanks that our Lord loved us so much that he stripped himself of glory, so that we could be filled with that same glory. Have a great day and God Bless.
Saint of the Day - St. Hillary of Poitiers
In the early centuries of Christianity, there were still many people who did not believe in God as we do. They believed that there were many gods, some more powerful than others. These people were not bad. They just did not know any better. They were called pagans. In the year 315, Hilary was born into just such a family in Poitiers, a town in France. His family was rich and well-known. Hilary received a good education. He married and raised a family. Through his studies, Hilary learned that a person should practice patience, kindness, justice and as many good habits as possible. These good acts would be rewarded in the life after death. Hilary's studies also convinced him that there could only be one God who is eternal, all-powerful and good. He read the Bible for the first time. When he came to the story of Moses and the burning bush, Hilary was very impressed by the name God gave himself: I AM WHO AM. Hilary read the writings of the prophets, too. Then he read the whole New Testament. By the time he finished, he was completely converted to Christianity and was baptized. Hilary lived the faith so well that he was appointed a bishop. This did not make his life easy because the emperor was interfering in Church matters. When Hilary opposed him, the emperor exiled him. And here is where Hilary's great virtues of patience and courage shone. He accepted exile calmly and used the time to write books explaining the faith. Since he was becoming famous, Hilary's enemies asked the emperor to send him back to his hometown. There he would be less noticeable. So Hilary returned to Poitiers in 360. He continued writing and teaching the people about the faith. Hilary died eight years later, at the age of fifty-two. His books have influenced the Church right to our own day. That is why he is called a Doctor of the Church.
Reflection: "Impart to us the meaning of the words of Scripture and the light to understand it."—St. Hilary
Saint information comes from: http://www.holyspiritinteractive.net/dailysaint/january/0113.asp
Heb 2:5-12
Ps 8:2, 5-9
Mk 1:21-28
Both our readings are great testaments to both the humanity and the divinity of Christ. Our God became man so that we could become more like God; this is one of the great mysteries of our faith and yet it is core to our belief that through Jesus, we have been made sons and daughters of the Father. Jesus knew our suffering and through his suffering brought us back to the Father. Today let us give thanks that our Lord loved us so much that he stripped himself of glory, so that we could be filled with that same glory. Have a great day and God Bless.
Saint of the Day - St. Hillary of Poitiers
In the early centuries of Christianity, there were still many people who did not believe in God as we do. They believed that there were many gods, some more powerful than others. These people were not bad. They just did not know any better. They were called pagans. In the year 315, Hilary was born into just such a family in Poitiers, a town in France. His family was rich and well-known. Hilary received a good education. He married and raised a family. Through his studies, Hilary learned that a person should practice patience, kindness, justice and as many good habits as possible. These good acts would be rewarded in the life after death. Hilary's studies also convinced him that there could only be one God who is eternal, all-powerful and good. He read the Bible for the first time. When he came to the story of Moses and the burning bush, Hilary was very impressed by the name God gave himself: I AM WHO AM. Hilary read the writings of the prophets, too. Then he read the whole New Testament. By the time he finished, he was completely converted to Christianity and was baptized. Hilary lived the faith so well that he was appointed a bishop. This did not make his life easy because the emperor was interfering in Church matters. When Hilary opposed him, the emperor exiled him. And here is where Hilary's great virtues of patience and courage shone. He accepted exile calmly and used the time to write books explaining the faith. Since he was becoming famous, Hilary's enemies asked the emperor to send him back to his hometown. There he would be less noticeable. So Hilary returned to Poitiers in 360. He continued writing and teaching the people about the faith. Hilary died eight years later, at the age of fifty-two. His books have influenced the Church right to our own day. That is why he is called a Doctor of the Church.
Reflection: "Impart to us the meaning of the words of Scripture and the light to understand it."—St. Hilary
Saint information comes from: http://www.holyspiritinteractive.net/dailysaint/january/0113.asp
Monday, January 12, 2009
Today's Readings:
Heb 1:1-6
Ps 97:1-2, 6-7, 9
Mk 1:14-20
Today we see Jesus calling the first of his disciples, telling them he will make them "fishers of men." Do we hear Christ's voice in our own lives calling us to him? Can we take the time to stop for a few moments and allow God to call us? Our Lord speaks to us each and every moment, we just have to be able to listen for his voice. Today let us take some time and allow Jesus to call out to us, and be ready to follow him where ever he calls us to go. Have a great day and God Bless
Saint of the Day - St. Marguerite Bourgeoys
Marguerite was born in Troyes, France, on April 17, 1620, but spent most of her eighty years in Montreal, Canada. Marguerite was the sixth of twelve children. Her parents were devout people. When Marguerite was nineteen, her mother died. Marguerite took care of her younger brothers and sisters. Her father died when she was twenty-seven. The family was now raised and Marguerite prayed to know what to do with her life. The governor of Montreal, Canada, was visiting France. He tried to find teachers for the New World. He invited Marguerite to come to Montreal to teach school and religion classes. She said yes. Marguerite gave away her share of her parents' inheritance to other members of the family. They couldn't believe that she would really leave their civilized country to go to the wilderness an ocean away. But she did. She sailed on June 20, 1653, and arrived in Canada in mid-November. Marguerite began the construction of a chapel in 1657. It was to honor Our Lady of Good Help. In 1658, she opened her first school. Marguerite realized the need to recruit more teachers. She returned to France in 1659 and returned with four companions. In 1670, she went to France again and brought back six companions. These brave women became the first sisters of the Congregation of Notre Dame. St. Marguerite and her sisters helped people in the colony survive when food was scarce. They opened a vocational school and taught young people how to run a home and farm. St. Marguerite's congregation was growing. By 1681 there were eighteen sisters. Seven were Canadian. They opened more missions and two sisters taught at the Indian mission. St. Marguerite herself received the first two Indian women into the congregation. In 1693, Mother Marguerite handed over her congregation to her successor. The new superior was Marie Barbier, the first Canadian to join the order. St. Marguerite's religious rule was approved by the Church in 1698. Marguerite spent her last few years praying and writing an autobiography. On the last day of 1699, a young sister lay dying. Mother Marguerite asked the Lord to take her life in exchange. By the morning of January 1, 1700, the sister was completely well. Mother Marguerite had a raging fever. She suffered for twelve days and died on January 12, 1700. She was declared a saint by Pope John Paul II on April 2, 1982.
Reflection: Throughout her life, Marguerite sought to serve those who needed her. Is there someone in my life who needs my help today?
Heb 1:1-6
Ps 97:1-2, 6-7, 9
Mk 1:14-20
Today we see Jesus calling the first of his disciples, telling them he will make them "fishers of men." Do we hear Christ's voice in our own lives calling us to him? Can we take the time to stop for a few moments and allow God to call us? Our Lord speaks to us each and every moment, we just have to be able to listen for his voice. Today let us take some time and allow Jesus to call out to us, and be ready to follow him where ever he calls us to go. Have a great day and God Bless
Saint of the Day - St. Marguerite Bourgeoys
Marguerite was born in Troyes, France, on April 17, 1620, but spent most of her eighty years in Montreal, Canada. Marguerite was the sixth of twelve children. Her parents were devout people. When Marguerite was nineteen, her mother died. Marguerite took care of her younger brothers and sisters. Her father died when she was twenty-seven. The family was now raised and Marguerite prayed to know what to do with her life. The governor of Montreal, Canada, was visiting France. He tried to find teachers for the New World. He invited Marguerite to come to Montreal to teach school and religion classes. She said yes. Marguerite gave away her share of her parents' inheritance to other members of the family. They couldn't believe that she would really leave their civilized country to go to the wilderness an ocean away. But she did. She sailed on June 20, 1653, and arrived in Canada in mid-November. Marguerite began the construction of a chapel in 1657. It was to honor Our Lady of Good Help. In 1658, she opened her first school. Marguerite realized the need to recruit more teachers. She returned to France in 1659 and returned with four companions. In 1670, she went to France again and brought back six companions. These brave women became the first sisters of the Congregation of Notre Dame. St. Marguerite and her sisters helped people in the colony survive when food was scarce. They opened a vocational school and taught young people how to run a home and farm. St. Marguerite's congregation was growing. By 1681 there were eighteen sisters. Seven were Canadian. They opened more missions and two sisters taught at the Indian mission. St. Marguerite herself received the first two Indian women into the congregation. In 1693, Mother Marguerite handed over her congregation to her successor. The new superior was Marie Barbier, the first Canadian to join the order. St. Marguerite's religious rule was approved by the Church in 1698. Marguerite spent her last few years praying and writing an autobiography. On the last day of 1699, a young sister lay dying. Mother Marguerite asked the Lord to take her life in exchange. By the morning of January 1, 1700, the sister was completely well. Mother Marguerite had a raging fever. She suffered for twelve days and died on January 12, 1700. She was declared a saint by Pope John Paul II on April 2, 1982.
Reflection: Throughout her life, Marguerite sought to serve those who needed her. Is there someone in my life who needs my help today?
Today's Readings:
Heb 1:1-6
Ps 97:1-2, 6-7, 9
Mk 1:14-20
Today we see Jesus calling the first of his disciples, telling them he will make them "fishers of men." Do we hear Christ's voice in our own lives calling us to him? Can we take the time to stop for a few moments and allow God to call us? Our Lord speaks to us each and every moment, we just have to be able to listen for his voice. Today let us take some time and allow Jesus to call out to us, and be ready to follow him where ever he calls us to go. Have a great day and God Bless
Saint of the Day - St. Marguerite Bourgeoys
Marguerite was born in Troyes, France, on April 17, 1620, but spent most of her eighty years in Montreal, Canada. Marguerite was the sixth of twelve children. Her parents were devout people. When Marguerite was nineteen, her mother died. Marguerite took care of her younger brothers and sisters. Her father died when she was twenty-seven. The family was now raised and Marguerite prayed to know what to do with her life. The governor of Montreal, Canada, was visiting France. He tried to find teachers for the New World. He invited Marguerite to come to Montreal to teach school and religion classes. She said yes. Marguerite gave away her share of her parents' inheritance to other members of the family. They couldn't believe that she would really leave their civilized country to go to the wilderness an ocean away. But she did. She sailed on June 20, 1653, and arrived in Canada in mid-November. Marguerite began the construction of a chapel in 1657. It was to honor Our Lady of Good Help. In 1658, she opened her first school. Marguerite realized the need to recruit more teachers. She returned to France in 1659 and returned with four companions. In 1670, she went to France again and brought back six companions. These brave women became the first sisters of the Congregation of Notre Dame. St. Marguerite and her sisters helped people in the colony survive when food was scarce. They opened a vocational school and taught young people how to run a home and farm. St. Marguerite's congregation was growing. By 1681 there were eighteen sisters. Seven were Canadian. They opened more missions and two sisters taught at the Indian mission. St. Marguerite herself received the first two Indian women into the congregation. In 1693, Mother Marguerite handed over her congregation to her successor. The new superior was Marie Barbier, the first Canadian to join the order. St. Marguerite's religious rule was approved by the Church in 1698. Marguerite spent her last few years praying and writing an autobiography. On the last day of 1699, a young sister lay dying. Mother Marguerite asked the Lord to take her life in exchange. By the morning of January 1, 1700, the sister was completely well. Mother Marguerite had a raging fever. She suffered for twelve days and died on January 12, 1700. She was declared a saint by Pope John Paul II on April 2, 1982.
Reflection: Throughout her life, Marguerite sought to serve those who needed her. Is there someone in my life who needs my help today?
Heb 1:1-6
Ps 97:1-2, 6-7, 9
Mk 1:14-20
Today we see Jesus calling the first of his disciples, telling them he will make them "fishers of men." Do we hear Christ's voice in our own lives calling us to him? Can we take the time to stop for a few moments and allow God to call us? Our Lord speaks to us each and every moment, we just have to be able to listen for his voice. Today let us take some time and allow Jesus to call out to us, and be ready to follow him where ever he calls us to go. Have a great day and God Bless
Saint of the Day - St. Marguerite Bourgeoys
Marguerite was born in Troyes, France, on April 17, 1620, but spent most of her eighty years in Montreal, Canada. Marguerite was the sixth of twelve children. Her parents were devout people. When Marguerite was nineteen, her mother died. Marguerite took care of her younger brothers and sisters. Her father died when she was twenty-seven. The family was now raised and Marguerite prayed to know what to do with her life. The governor of Montreal, Canada, was visiting France. He tried to find teachers for the New World. He invited Marguerite to come to Montreal to teach school and religion classes. She said yes. Marguerite gave away her share of her parents' inheritance to other members of the family. They couldn't believe that she would really leave their civilized country to go to the wilderness an ocean away. But she did. She sailed on June 20, 1653, and arrived in Canada in mid-November. Marguerite began the construction of a chapel in 1657. It was to honor Our Lady of Good Help. In 1658, she opened her first school. Marguerite realized the need to recruit more teachers. She returned to France in 1659 and returned with four companions. In 1670, she went to France again and brought back six companions. These brave women became the first sisters of the Congregation of Notre Dame. St. Marguerite and her sisters helped people in the colony survive when food was scarce. They opened a vocational school and taught young people how to run a home and farm. St. Marguerite's congregation was growing. By 1681 there were eighteen sisters. Seven were Canadian. They opened more missions and two sisters taught at the Indian mission. St. Marguerite herself received the first two Indian women into the congregation. In 1693, Mother Marguerite handed over her congregation to her successor. The new superior was Marie Barbier, the first Canadian to join the order. St. Marguerite's religious rule was approved by the Church in 1698. Marguerite spent her last few years praying and writing an autobiography. On the last day of 1699, a young sister lay dying. Mother Marguerite asked the Lord to take her life in exchange. By the morning of January 1, 1700, the sister was completely well. Mother Marguerite had a raging fever. She suffered for twelve days and died on January 12, 1700. She was declared a saint by Pope John Paul II on April 2, 1982.
Reflection: Throughout her life, Marguerite sought to serve those who needed her. Is there someone in my life who needs my help today?
Friday, January 9, 2009
God's Will
Today's Readings:
1 Jn 5:5-13
Ps 147;12-15, 19-20
Lk 5:12-16
A man with leprosy approaches Jesus in our Gospel today asking to be healed, he has absolute faith that God can do it if he wills. Jesus' response is "I do will it..." Christ's response is not just to the leper, but to us all; he desires us all to be cleansed of anything that is not of God, anything not holy. Today let us approach our Lord with this same faith and ask that we too may be healed of our infirmities, anything that keeps us from our Lord and then allow him heal us. Have a great day and God Bless
Saint of the Day - St. Julian & St. Basilissa
St. Julian and St. Basilissa were husband and wife. They lived in the early part of the fourth century. Their love for their faith led them to do something heroic: they turned their home into a hospital. This way, they could take care of the sick and the poor who had no one to help them. St. Julian took care of the men, and St. Basilissa cared for the women. The couple found Jesus in the people they served. And they did what they did because of love, not for money or any kind of reward. We do not have many details about the day-to-day life of this couple. We do know, however, that St. Basilissa died after suffering great persecutions for the faith. Julian lived much longer. He continued his generous service to sick people even after Basilissa had died. Later, Julian, too, died a martyr. Basilissa and Julian spent their whole lives helping others and serving God. They planted the seed of faith by living in a holy way. They watered that faith and made it grow with their blood shed for Jesus crucified.
Reflection: Our relationships with others can help us serve God more fully. Stop for a moment and pray for God’s presence in a relationship that is an important part of your life.
Saint information comes from: http://www.holyspiritinteractive.net/dailysaint/january/0109.asp
1 Jn 5:5-13
Ps 147;12-15, 19-20
Lk 5:12-16
A man with leprosy approaches Jesus in our Gospel today asking to be healed, he has absolute faith that God can do it if he wills. Jesus' response is "I do will it..." Christ's response is not just to the leper, but to us all; he desires us all to be cleansed of anything that is not of God, anything not holy. Today let us approach our Lord with this same faith and ask that we too may be healed of our infirmities, anything that keeps us from our Lord and then allow him heal us. Have a great day and God Bless
Saint of the Day - St. Julian & St. Basilissa
St. Julian and St. Basilissa were husband and wife. They lived in the early part of the fourth century. Their love for their faith led them to do something heroic: they turned their home into a hospital. This way, they could take care of the sick and the poor who had no one to help them. St. Julian took care of the men, and St. Basilissa cared for the women. The couple found Jesus in the people they served. And they did what they did because of love, not for money or any kind of reward. We do not have many details about the day-to-day life of this couple. We do know, however, that St. Basilissa died after suffering great persecutions for the faith. Julian lived much longer. He continued his generous service to sick people even after Basilissa had died. Later, Julian, too, died a martyr. Basilissa and Julian spent their whole lives helping others and serving God. They planted the seed of faith by living in a holy way. They watered that faith and made it grow with their blood shed for Jesus crucified.
Reflection: Our relationships with others can help us serve God more fully. Stop for a moment and pray for God’s presence in a relationship that is an important part of your life.
Saint information comes from: http://www.holyspiritinteractive.net/dailysaint/january/0109.asp
Wednesday, January 7, 2009
Fear Not
Today's Readings:
1 Jn 4:11-18
Ps 72:1-2, 10, 12-13
Mk 6:45-52
"Take courage, it is I, do not be afraid!" Christ proclaims this to the disciples who were very much afraid when they saw Jesus walking on the water in the middle of the storm; yet he also says this to us today. St. John states in his letter that "there is no fear in love, but perfect love drives out fear..." The disciples allowed their fear to separate them from God's love even after they saw the miracle of the loaves and fishes, do we allow our fear to do the same to us? Today let us truly place our trust in Christ and allow him to banish any fear that we may have so that we may always dwell securely in the love of the Father. God Bless and have a great day.
Saint of the Day - St. Raymond of Penyafort
Raymond was born between 1175 and 1180 in a little town near Barcelona, Spain. He was educated at the cathedral school in Barcelona and became a priest. Raymond graduated from law school in Bologna, Italy, and became a famous teacher. He joined the Dominican order in 1218. In 1230, Pope Gregory IX asked this dedicated priest to come to Rome. When Raymond arrived, the pope gave him several assignments. One duty was to collect all the official letters of the popes since 1150. Raymond gathered and published five volumes. He also took part in writing Church law. In 1238, Raymond was elected master general of the Dominicans. With his knowledge of law, he went over the order's rule and made sure everything was legally correct. After he had finished, he resigned his position in 1240. Now he could truly dedicate the rest of his life to parish work. That is what he really wanted. The pope thought of making Raymond an archbishop, but Raymond refused. He asked to return to Spain and he did. He was overjoyed to be in parish work. His compassion helped many people return to God through the sacrament of Reconciliation. During his years in Rome, Raymond had often heard stories of the difficulties that missionaries were having. They were trying hard to reach out to the non-Christians of Northern Africa and Spain. To help the missionaries, Raymond started a school that taught the language and culture of the people to be evangelized. Also, Father Raymond asked the famous Dominican, St. Thomas Aqui-nas, to write a booklet. This booklet would explain the truths of faith in a way that nonbelievers could understand. (We celebrate the feast of St. Thomas on January 28.) Raymond lived nearly one hundred years. He died in Barcelona on January 6, 1275. He was proclaimed a saint in 1601 by Pope Clement VIII. This pope declared him the patron of Church lawyers because of his great influence on Church law.
Reflection: May we become people of compassion and understanding for those whom we serve.
Saint information comes from: http://www.holyspiritinteractive.net/dailysaint/january/0107.asp
1 Jn 4:11-18
Ps 72:1-2, 10, 12-13
Mk 6:45-52
"Take courage, it is I, do not be afraid!" Christ proclaims this to the disciples who were very much afraid when they saw Jesus walking on the water in the middle of the storm; yet he also says this to us today. St. John states in his letter that "there is no fear in love, but perfect love drives out fear..." The disciples allowed their fear to separate them from God's love even after they saw the miracle of the loaves and fishes, do we allow our fear to do the same to us? Today let us truly place our trust in Christ and allow him to banish any fear that we may have so that we may always dwell securely in the love of the Father. God Bless and have a great day.
Saint of the Day - St. Raymond of Penyafort
Raymond was born between 1175 and 1180 in a little town near Barcelona, Spain. He was educated at the cathedral school in Barcelona and became a priest. Raymond graduated from law school in Bologna, Italy, and became a famous teacher. He joined the Dominican order in 1218. In 1230, Pope Gregory IX asked this dedicated priest to come to Rome. When Raymond arrived, the pope gave him several assignments. One duty was to collect all the official letters of the popes since 1150. Raymond gathered and published five volumes. He also took part in writing Church law. In 1238, Raymond was elected master general of the Dominicans. With his knowledge of law, he went over the order's rule and made sure everything was legally correct. After he had finished, he resigned his position in 1240. Now he could truly dedicate the rest of his life to parish work. That is what he really wanted. The pope thought of making Raymond an archbishop, but Raymond refused. He asked to return to Spain and he did. He was overjoyed to be in parish work. His compassion helped many people return to God through the sacrament of Reconciliation. During his years in Rome, Raymond had often heard stories of the difficulties that missionaries were having. They were trying hard to reach out to the non-Christians of Northern Africa and Spain. To help the missionaries, Raymond started a school that taught the language and culture of the people to be evangelized. Also, Father Raymond asked the famous Dominican, St. Thomas Aqui-nas, to write a booklet. This booklet would explain the truths of faith in a way that nonbelievers could understand. (We celebrate the feast of St. Thomas on January 28.) Raymond lived nearly one hundred years. He died in Barcelona on January 6, 1275. He was proclaimed a saint in 1601 by Pope Clement VIII. This pope declared him the patron of Church lawyers because of his great influence on Church law.
Reflection: May we become people of compassion and understanding for those whom we serve.
Saint information comes from: http://www.holyspiritinteractive.net/dailysaint/january/0107.asp
Tuesday, January 6, 2009
God is Love
Today's Readings:
1 Jn 4:7-10
Ps 72:1-4, 7-8
Mk 6:34-44
God is love and Christ continues to show this to his disciples as he feeds the vast crowd with only 5 loaves and 2 fish. With God's love all things are possible, but only if we recognize the gifts he has given us and are willing to use those gifts in the service of our brothers and sisters. Today let us allow the love of God to dwell within us and continue to grow as we share the gifts we have received from God with one another. Have a great day and God Bless.
Saint of the Day - Blessed Andre Bessette
Alfred Bessette was born on August 9, 1845, not far from Montreal, Canada. He was the eighth of twelve children. When Alfred was nine, his father, a wood cutter, died in an accident at work. Three years later, Alfred's mother died of tuberculosis, leaving the children orphans. They were split up and placed in different homes. Alfred went to live with his aunt and uncle. Because his family had been so poor and he was often sick, Alfred had very little education. So for the next thirteen years he tried learning different trades like farming, shoemaking and baking. He even worked in a factory in Connecticut. But his health always failed him. When Alfred was twenty-five, he joined the order of Holy Cross and chose the name Brother Andre. He spent the next forty years as a general maintenance man and messenger. The remaining years of his life were spent as the doorkeeper for the order's college. Here, Brother Andre's healing power became known. When people came to ask him for a cure, he would tell them to first thank God for their suffering because it was so valuable. Then he would pray with them. Most of them were cured. Brother Andre always refused credit for the healing. He insisted it had been the person's faith and the power of St. Joseph. Brother Andre had a great love for the Eucharist and for St. Joseph. When he was young, he dreamt he saw a big church, but he couldn't tell where it was. Gradually, he came to realize that God wanted a church in honor of St. Joseph. That church was to be built on top of Mount Royale in Montreal, Canada. Prayer and the sacrifices of Brother Andre and many other people made the dream come true. The magnificent church honoring St. Joseph was built. It is a testimony to Brother Andre's tremendous faith. Pilgrims come to Mount Royale all year and from distant places. They want to honor St. Joseph. They want to show their trust in his loving care, as Brother Andre did. Brother Andre died peacefully on January 6, 1937. Nearly a million people climbed Mount Royale to St. Joseph's Oratory for his funeral. They came in spite of sleet and snow to say good-bye to their dear friend. He was proclaimed "blessed" on May 23, 1982, by Pope John Paul II.
Reflection: Blessed Andre Bessette believed not in himself but in the power of God’s love for him. In him we can see that God reveals his power shining through our human weakness.
Saint information comes from: http://www.holyspiritinteractive.net/dailysaint/january/0106.asp
1 Jn 4:7-10
Ps 72:1-4, 7-8
Mk 6:34-44
God is love and Christ continues to show this to his disciples as he feeds the vast crowd with only 5 loaves and 2 fish. With God's love all things are possible, but only if we recognize the gifts he has given us and are willing to use those gifts in the service of our brothers and sisters. Today let us allow the love of God to dwell within us and continue to grow as we share the gifts we have received from God with one another. Have a great day and God Bless.
Saint of the Day - Blessed Andre Bessette
Alfred Bessette was born on August 9, 1845, not far from Montreal, Canada. He was the eighth of twelve children. When Alfred was nine, his father, a wood cutter, died in an accident at work. Three years later, Alfred's mother died of tuberculosis, leaving the children orphans. They were split up and placed in different homes. Alfred went to live with his aunt and uncle. Because his family had been so poor and he was often sick, Alfred had very little education. So for the next thirteen years he tried learning different trades like farming, shoemaking and baking. He even worked in a factory in Connecticut. But his health always failed him. When Alfred was twenty-five, he joined the order of Holy Cross and chose the name Brother Andre. He spent the next forty years as a general maintenance man and messenger. The remaining years of his life were spent as the doorkeeper for the order's college. Here, Brother Andre's healing power became known. When people came to ask him for a cure, he would tell them to first thank God for their suffering because it was so valuable. Then he would pray with them. Most of them were cured. Brother Andre always refused credit for the healing. He insisted it had been the person's faith and the power of St. Joseph. Brother Andre had a great love for the Eucharist and for St. Joseph. When he was young, he dreamt he saw a big church, but he couldn't tell where it was. Gradually, he came to realize that God wanted a church in honor of St. Joseph. That church was to be built on top of Mount Royale in Montreal, Canada. Prayer and the sacrifices of Brother Andre and many other people made the dream come true. The magnificent church honoring St. Joseph was built. It is a testimony to Brother Andre's tremendous faith. Pilgrims come to Mount Royale all year and from distant places. They want to honor St. Joseph. They want to show their trust in his loving care, as Brother Andre did. Brother Andre died peacefully on January 6, 1937. Nearly a million people climbed Mount Royale to St. Joseph's Oratory for his funeral. They came in spite of sleet and snow to say good-bye to their dear friend. He was proclaimed "blessed" on May 23, 1982, by Pope John Paul II.
Reflection: Blessed Andre Bessette believed not in himself but in the power of God’s love for him. In him we can see that God reveals his power shining through our human weakness.
Saint information comes from: http://www.holyspiritinteractive.net/dailysaint/january/0106.asp
Monday, January 5, 2009
God's Kingdom
Today's Readings:
1 Jn 3:22-4:6
Ps 2"7-8, 10-12
Mt 4:12-17, 23-25
Today we see Jesus initiating his ministry by saying "Repent, for the Kindgom of heaven is at hand." Truly the Kingdom is at hand and each of us is called to help in bringing about that Kingdom. As a Christian we beleive that each of us makes up a part of the Kingdom of God and that each of us is responsible for helping to bring about that Kingdom here on earth. Today let us begin our new year by truly making it one dedicated to God and to bringing his Kingdom about, in our own hearts and in all those we meet. Have a great day and God Bless.
Saint of the Day - St. John Neumann
Not only was John Neumann quiet, he was short-five feet, two inches tall. His eyes were very kind and he smiled a lot. He was born on March 28, 1811, in Bohemia, now part of the Czech Republic. His parents were Philip and Agnes Neumann. He had four sisters and a brother. After college, John entered the seminary. When time came for ordination, the bishop was sick. The date was never set because Bohemia had enough priests at the time. Since he had been reading about missionary activities in the United States, John decided to go to America to ask for ordination. He walked most of the way to France and then boarded the ship Europa. John arrived in Manhattan on June 9, 1836. Bishop John Dubois was very happy to see him. There were only thirty-six priests for the two hundred thousand Catholics living in the state of New York and part of New Jersey. Just sixteen days after his arrival, John was ordained a priest and sent to Buffalo. There he would help Father Pax care for his parish, which was nine hundred square miles in size. Father Pax gave him the choice of the city of Buffalo or of the country area. Now John's heroic character began to show. He chose the most difficult-the country area. He decided to stay in a little town with an unfinished church. Once it was completed, he moved to another town that had a log-church. There he built himself a small log cabin. He hardly ever lit a fire and often lived on bread and water. He only slept a few hours each night. The farms in his area were far apart. John had to walk long distances to reach his people. They were German, French, Irish and Scotch. In school, John had learned eight languages. Now he added English and Gaelic. Before he died, he knew twelve languages. John joined the Redemptorist order and continued his missionary work. He became bishop of Philadelphia in 1852. Bishop Neumann built fifty churches and began building a cathedral. He opened almost one hundred schools, and the number of parochial school students grew from five hundred to nine thousand. Bishop Neumann's health never improved much, but people were still very surprised when he died suddenly on January 5, 1860. He was walking home from an appointment when he fell to the ground with a stroke. He was carried into the nearest house and died there at 3:00 P.M. In March Bishop Neumann would have been forty-nine. He was proclaimed a saint by Pope Paul VI on June 19, 1977. We might not be as smart, strong, or active as we would like to be. But that doesn't stop God from loving us and from using us to do wonderful things. When we have to do something difficult, we can ask St. John Neumann's help.
Reflection: St. John Neumann did not let his "weakness" discourage him from working tirelessly for the gospel. Do I truly believe that God wishes to use me to do wonderful things for his glory and for the salvation of all?
Saint information comes from: http://www.holyspiritinteractive.net/dailysaint/january/0105.asp
1 Jn 3:22-4:6
Ps 2"7-8, 10-12
Mt 4:12-17, 23-25
Today we see Jesus initiating his ministry by saying "Repent, for the Kindgom of heaven is at hand." Truly the Kingdom is at hand and each of us is called to help in bringing about that Kingdom. As a Christian we beleive that each of us makes up a part of the Kingdom of God and that each of us is responsible for helping to bring about that Kingdom here on earth. Today let us begin our new year by truly making it one dedicated to God and to bringing his Kingdom about, in our own hearts and in all those we meet. Have a great day and God Bless.
Saint of the Day - St. John Neumann
Not only was John Neumann quiet, he was short-five feet, two inches tall. His eyes were very kind and he smiled a lot. He was born on March 28, 1811, in Bohemia, now part of the Czech Republic. His parents were Philip and Agnes Neumann. He had four sisters and a brother. After college, John entered the seminary. When time came for ordination, the bishop was sick. The date was never set because Bohemia had enough priests at the time. Since he had been reading about missionary activities in the United States, John decided to go to America to ask for ordination. He walked most of the way to France and then boarded the ship Europa. John arrived in Manhattan on June 9, 1836. Bishop John Dubois was very happy to see him. There were only thirty-six priests for the two hundred thousand Catholics living in the state of New York and part of New Jersey. Just sixteen days after his arrival, John was ordained a priest and sent to Buffalo. There he would help Father Pax care for his parish, which was nine hundred square miles in size. Father Pax gave him the choice of the city of Buffalo or of the country area. Now John's heroic character began to show. He chose the most difficult-the country area. He decided to stay in a little town with an unfinished church. Once it was completed, he moved to another town that had a log-church. There he built himself a small log cabin. He hardly ever lit a fire and often lived on bread and water. He only slept a few hours each night. The farms in his area were far apart. John had to walk long distances to reach his people. They were German, French, Irish and Scotch. In school, John had learned eight languages. Now he added English and Gaelic. Before he died, he knew twelve languages. John joined the Redemptorist order and continued his missionary work. He became bishop of Philadelphia in 1852. Bishop Neumann built fifty churches and began building a cathedral. He opened almost one hundred schools, and the number of parochial school students grew from five hundred to nine thousand. Bishop Neumann's health never improved much, but people were still very surprised when he died suddenly on January 5, 1860. He was walking home from an appointment when he fell to the ground with a stroke. He was carried into the nearest house and died there at 3:00 P.M. In March Bishop Neumann would have been forty-nine. He was proclaimed a saint by Pope Paul VI on June 19, 1977. We might not be as smart, strong, or active as we would like to be. But that doesn't stop God from loving us and from using us to do wonderful things. When we have to do something difficult, we can ask St. John Neumann's help.
Reflection: St. John Neumann did not let his "weakness" discourage him from working tirelessly for the gospel. Do I truly believe that God wishes to use me to do wonderful things for his glory and for the salvation of all?
Saint information comes from: http://www.holyspiritinteractive.net/dailysaint/january/0105.asp
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