Gifts from God

Today's Readings:
Acts 8:1-8
Ps 66:1-7
Jn 6:35-40

Christ has died so that we may live, he gives himself to us in all the Sacraments, most especially in the Eucharist, he tells us of the Father's love for us in the Scriptures, he gives us the promise of eternal life with him if we only believe and follow him, and now he gives us this very day. What shall we do with the great gifts God has given us? Today let us take some time from our busy lives and simply take a few moments to thank our generous Lord for all that we have and all that he has yet to give us. Have a great day and God Bless.
Lord God, you are generous and loving; help us to follow your example and share that loving Spirit with all those we meet, all the time giving thanks and praise to you. Amen.

Saint of the Day - St. Catherine of Siena
Born in 1347, this well-known saint is the patroness of Italy, her country. Catherine was the youngest in a family of twenty-five children. Her mother and father wanted her to be happily married. However, Catherine wished only to be a nun. To prove her point, she cut off her long, beautiful hair. She wanted to make herself unattractive. Her parents were very upset and scolded her frequently. They also gave her the heaviest housework to do. But Catherine did not back down. Finally, her parents stopped opposing her. St. Catherine was very honest and straight forward with Jesus. Once she asked him, "Where were you, Lord, when I had such shameful temptations?" And Jesus answered, "Daughter, I was in your heart. I made you win with my grace." One night, many people of Siena were out on the streets celebrating. Jesus appeared to Catherine who was praying alone in her room. With Jesus was his Blessed Mother. She took Catherine's hand and lifted it up to her Son. Jesus put a ring on the saint's finger and she became his bride. In Catherine's time, the Church had many problems. There were fights going on all over Italy. Catherine wrote letters to kings and queens. She even went to beg rulers to make peace with the pope and to avoid wars. Catherine asked the pope to leave Avignon, France, and return to Rome to rule the Church. She told him it was God's will. He listened to St. Catherine and did what she said. Catherine never forgot that Jesus was in her heart. Through her, Jesus helped the sick people she nursed. Through her Jesus comforted the prisoners she visited in jail. This great saint died in Rome in 1380. She was just thirty-three. She was proclaimed a saint by Pope Pius II in 1461. In 1970, Pope Paul VI declared St. Catherine a Doctor of the Church. She received this great honor because she served Jesus' Church heroically during her brief lifetime.
Reflection: "You are a mystery as deep as the sea; the more I search, the more I find, and the more I find, the more I search for you. But I can never be satisfied; what I receive will ever leave me desiring more. When you fill my soul, I have an even greater hunger, and I grow more famished for your light." --St. Catherine of Siena

Saint information comes from: http://www.holyspiritinteractive.net/dailysaint/april/0429.asp

Living for Christ

Today's Readings:
Acts 7:51-8:1
Ps 31:3-4, 6-8, 17, 21
Jn 6:30-35

Christ is the "bread of life" and we who believe are filled with his Spirit. It was that same Spirit that led St. Stephen (in our 1st reading) to lay down his life for proclaiming the truth, Jesus Christ; now we receive that Spirit and are called to do the same. We may not have to die for our faith, but we do lay down our life for Christ daily by giving ourselves over to God. In following God and his commandments we are going against what the world says is important and placing our faith in what is really important, what is really true, Jesus Christ. Today let us receive Christ and allow him to lead us to everlasting life. Have a great day and God Bless.
Lord God, you feed us daily with your Word and Sacrament; let this great gift help us to be true witnesses to you. We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen.

Saint of the Day - St. Peter Chanel
St. Peter Chanel was born near Belley, France, in 1803. From the time he was seven, he took care of his father's sheep. Though poor, he was intelligent and loved his faith, too. One day, a good parish priest met him. He thought so much of Peter that he asked his parents if he could educate the boy. In this priest's little school, and later in the seminary, Peter studied hard. When he became a priest, he was sent to a parish where just a few Catholics still practiced their faith. Father Chanel was prayerful. He was kind and patient with everyone. In just three years there was a big improvement. Many people became full of love for Jesus and his Church again. St. Peter Chanel had a great desire to become a missionary. He joined a religious order called Marist missionaries. He hoped he would be sent to bring the Gospel to people who did not yet believe in God. After a few years, his wish came true. He and a group of Marist missionaries were sent to the islands of the South Pacific. Father Chanel and one brother were assigned to the island of Futuna. There the people willingly listened to Father Chanel preach. "This man loves us," one of the people said. "And he himself practices what he teaches us to do." Unfortunately, the chief of this tribe became jealous of the priest's success. When the chief's own son was baptized, he was furious. He sent a band of his warriors to kill the missionary. All the priest said as he lay dying was, "It is well with me." St. Peter Chanel was killed on April 28, 1841. Within a short time after his martyrdom, the whole island became Christian. Peter was declared a saint by Pope Pius XII in 1954.
Reflection: Do I desire and hope to bring the gospel to people who do not yet believe in God?

Saint information comes from: http://www.holyspiritinteractive.net/dailysaint/april/0428.asp

Journey

Today's Readings:
Acts 6:8-15
Ps 119:23-24, 26-27, 29-30
Jn 6:22-29

"Do not work for food that perishes, but for food that endures for eternal life." With these words Jesus is reminding us that all that we do should be directed towards our ultimate goal in this life - eternal life with the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit in Heaven. Just like the Jewish people journeyed in the desert look for the promised land after leaving Egypt for 40 years, so we journey in this our 'desert' until we reach the promise land Christ has promised us. Today let us direct all our thoughts and actions to the one who really matters, our Lord who gave up his life, so that we might have life. Have a great day and God Bless.
Lord God, direct the work of our hands so that all we do may be for your greater glory and honor and in this bringing us closer to you. We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen

Saint of the Day - St. Zita
Zita is known as the patron saint of domestic workers. She was born in the village of Monte Sagrati, Italy, in 1218. Her parents were deeply religious and raised Zita in a loving, Christian way. It was the custom of poor couples to send their teenage daughters to trustworthy families who could afford servants. The young women would live with the families for a time and were employed to do the domestic tasks. Zita was sent to the Fatinelli family in Lucca when she was twelve. Mr. and Mrs. Fatinelli were good people who had several workers. Zita was happy to be able to work and send money to her parents. She tried to live responsibly. She formed habits of praying that fit in with her schedule. She rose early to go to daily Mass. Zita was diligent in her work. She felt it was part of her very self. But the other workers were annoyed. They tried to do as little as they could get away with. They began to pick on Zita and oppose her without their employers noticing. Zita was hurt but she prayed for patience. She never told on the workers. She insisted on doing her work as well as possible no matter what they thought. When one of the workers tried to kiss her, Zita fought him off. He left the room with several scratches on his face. Mr. Fatinelli questioned her privately about the incident. She told him honestly what had happened. After that, Zita became the head housekeeper. The Fatinelli children were placed under her care. Best of all, the other workers stopped persecuting her. Some even began to imitate her. Zita spent her whole life with the Fatinelli family. While others came and went, she stayed. She served them lovingly. She loved them like she loved her own family. By her example, she helped people see that work is beautiful when it is done with Christian love. Zita died peacefully on April 27, 1278. She was sixty years old.
Reflection: The life of this saint tells us that work is beautiful when it is done with Christian love. How do I value my work?

Saint information comes from: http://www.holyspiritinteractive.net/dailysaint/april/0427.asp

God's Gifts

Today's Readings:
Acts 5:34-42
Ps 27:1, 4, 13-14
Jn 6:1-15

Our Gospel today recounts the multiplication of the fish and loaves, a story we hear in the other Gospels as well; though it is only in John's account of the story that we find a child bringing forth this small gift. In the other Gospels, the bread and fish just appear, but in John they are brought be a young boy. It is through that small gift that Christ is able to create a great miracle and feed the large crowd. We should never withhold our gifts thinking they are not worthy or are useless, God can and does great things even with the smallest showing of love. Today let us place the gifts God has given us at the service of his people so that he may work miracles through our generosity. Have a great day and God Bless.
Father, we can do nothing without you, but with you all things are possible. Help us today to place the gifts we have received at the service of your people so that through us, you may be made known to all. We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen.

Saint of the Day - St. Fidelis of Sigmaringen
This saint's name was Mark Rey. He was born in Germany in 1578. Mark went to the famous University of Freigburg to become a lawyer. Even as a student, he likes to visit the sick and the poor. He spent time praying daily. His brother chose to be a Capuchin Franciscan priest. Mark, instead, finished his studies and became a famous lawyer. Mark often took on the cases of poor people who had no money to pay. This won him the nickname, "The Poor Man's Lawyer." Because he was very honest, Mark became disgusted with the dishonesty of the law courts. He decided top follow his brother and become a priest. He received his religious habit and took the name Fidelis, which means "faithful." Father Fidelis was filled with joy when he was assigned to Switzerland there were many enemies of the Catholic faith. Father Fidelis wanted to win these people back to the Church. His preaching brought wonderful results. Many people were converted. Enemies of the Church grew angry at his success. St. Fidelis admitted that his life was in danger, yet he went right on preaching. In the middle of a sermon one day, a shot was fired, but the bullet missed. Father Fidelis knew he had to leave the town at once. He did, but as he was walking down the road to the next town, a mob of angry men stopped him. They ordered the priest to give up the Catholic religion. St. Fidelis said firmly, "I will not give up the Catholic faith." The men pounced on him with their clubs and crude tools. The wounded priest pulled himself up to a kneeling position. He prayed: "Lord, forgive my enemies. They do not know what they are doing. Lord Jesus, have mercy on me! Holy Mary, my Mother, help me!" The men attacked him again until they were certain he was dead. St. Fidelis died a martyr in 1622 at the age of forty-four. Pope Benedict XIV proclaimed him a saint in 1746.
Reflection: Do I believe that God uses me in a unique way to bring others closer to him?

Saint information comes from: http://www.holyspiritinteractive.net/dailysaint/april/0424.asp

Hope

Today's Readings:
Acts 5:17-26
Ps 34:2-9
Jn 3:16-21

"For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but that the world might be saved through him." - We hear these words in our Gospel this morning and they should continue to fill us with hope. This same hope filled the apostles so that they could preach the Gospel without fear from those who wished them harm. At the night of our Lord's passion, one betrayed him, one denied him, and the rest of them ran away. Now filled with the Holy Spirit, they boldly proclaim Jesus, even while facing persecution. Today let us ask the Holy Spirit to fill our lives so we too can boldly proclaim our faith to all we meet. Have a great day and God Bless.
Come, Holy Spirit, fill the hearts of your faithful and enkindle in them the fire of your love. Send forth your Spirit and they shall be created and you shall renew the face of the earth. O God, who has instructed the hearts of your faithful by the light of the Holy Spirit, grant that by the same Holy Spirit we may have a right judgment in all things and evermore rejoice in his consolations. Through Christ Our Lord, Amen

Saint of the Day - St. Stoer & St. Caius
St. Soter was pope long ago in the times of the Roman emperors. He was a real father to all Christians. He gave much help to those who were poor. He took special care of those who had been condemned to work in dangerous mines. They were sent there because they would not give up their faith in Jesus. These brave Christians were hungry all the time. They were allowed only a little rest. Other Christians were chained in prisons. Good Pope Soter did everything he possibly could to comfort and help them. St. Soter also helped Christians who were far away from Rome. This holy pope was a great preacher. All the Christians loved to listen to him explain our religion. He spoke with such love. He inspired them with the courage to die for Jesus rather than sacrifice to false gods. St. Soter himself gave his life for Jesus in the year 174 after having been pope for ten years. St. Caius was pope about one hundred years later. He, too, lived in times of persecution. This pope did all he could to prepare people to keep the faith at any sacrifice. To be of more help to his people, he lived eight years in underground rooms, called catacombs. These were cemeteries where the Christians often met in secret to pray and receive the sacraments. This was their hiding place from the cruel pagan soldiers. The Christians knew they would be killed if they were caught. St. Caius was pope for twelve years. Then he, too, was martyred. He died in the year 296.
Reflection: Let us pray that the Lord may give strength and courage to those who are persecuted throughout the world because they are Christians.

Saint information comes from: http://www.holyspiritinteractive.net/dailysaint/april/0422.asp

The Gift

Today's Readings:
Acts 4:32-37
Ps 93:1-2, 5
Jn 3:7-15

In our Gospel today, Jesus is speaking to Nicodemus, a Jewish leader, about why the Son of Man has come into the world. He freely came into the world to die for us, so that we may have life. By his life we received life and by his death, our death was destroyed. He did this so that we may be brought back into relationship with the Father. As we continue our journey through this Easter Season, let us allow the great gift Christ has won for us fill us with joy as we celebrate the new life we have received. Have a great day and God Bless.
Lord God, you gave yourself up for us; help us to give ourselves over to you. We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen.

Saint of the Day - St. Anselm
Anselm was born in northern Italy in 1033. From his home he could see the Alps mountains. When he was fifteen, Anselm tried to join a monastery in Italy. But his father was against it. Then Anselm became sick. Not long after he got better, his mother died. He was still young and rich and clever. Soon he forgot about wanting to serve God. He began to think only of having good times. After a while though, Anselm became bored with this way of life. He wanted something better, something more important. He went to France to visit the holy Abbot Lanfranc of the famous monastery of Bec. Anselm became Lanfranc's very close friend and the abbot brought him to God. He also helped Anselm decide to become a Benedic-tine monk. Anselm was then twenty-seven. Anselm was a warm-hearted man who loved his brother monks dearly. Even those who first resented him soon became his friends. He became the abbot in 1078. When he had to leave Bec to become archbishop of Canterbury in England, he told the monks that they would always live in his heart. The people of England loved and respected Anselm. However, King William II persecuted him. Anselm had to flee into exile in 1097 and in 1103. King William even forbade Anselm to go to Rome to ask the pope's advice. But Anselm went anyway. He stayed with the pope until the king died. Then he went back to his diocese in England. Even in the midst of his many duties, St. Anselm always found time to write important books of philosophy and theology. He also wrote down the many wonderful instructions he had given the monks about God. They were very happy about that. He used to say: "Would you like to know the secret of being happy in the monastery? Forget the world and be happy to forget it. The monastery is a real heaven on earth for those who live only for Jesus." St. Anselm died on April 21, 1109. He was declared a great teacher or Doctor of the Church by Pope Clement XI in 1720.
Reflection: "You were looking for God, and you have discovered that he is the Supreme Being, and that you could not possibly imagine anything more perfect. You have discovered that this Supreme Being is life itself, light, wisdom, goodness, eternal blessedness, and blessed eternity."-St. Anselm

Saint information comes from: http://www.holyspiritinteractive.net/dailysaint/april/0421.asp

New Life

Today's Readings:
Acts 4:23-31
Ps 2:1-9
Jn 3:1-8

In our Gospel today, Nicodemus is asking Jesus about being "born again." Truly through our Baptism, we have been born again, born into the life of the Spirit, co-heirs with Christ, and thus sons and daughters of the Father. Our true home awaits us in Heaven though we still strive to bring about God's Kingdom here on earth. This new life that has been given to us was won through the victory of the cross; the question is, what are we doing with it? Today let us allow this new life to fill us and realize each day is a gift from our God and strive to live out that life in the way in which our Lord is calling us. Have a great day and God Bless.
Lord, giver of life and all good things, fill us this day with your life that you won for us and help us to use the gifts you have given us in your service this day. We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen

Saint of the Day - St. Agnes of Montepulciano
This saint was born near the city of Monte pulciano, Italy, in 1268. When she was just nine years old, she begged her mother and father to let her live at the nearby convent. Agnes was very happy with the sisters. They led a quiet, prayerful life. They worked hard, too. Even though she was young, Agnes understood why the sisters lived and prayed so well. They wanted to be very close to Jesus. The years passed. St. Agnes received her training as a novice. She was such a good nun that the other sisters were pleased to have her. Agnes prayed with all her heart. She gave the sisters a good example. Some young women came to join them. Agnes and the sisters belonged to the Order of Preachers, called Dominicans. Eventually, Agnes was chosen superior or "prioress" of the convent. She tried to be fair and honest with each sister. She kept reminding herself that everything she did was for Jesus. She believed that Jesus was really in charge of the convent. He was taking care of them. Mother Agnes performed hard penances. She was kind and gentle even when she didn't feel like it. God filled Agnes with joy and sometimes gave her spiritual favors. One time he even let her hold the Christ Child in her arms. Agnes was a sickly woman. But she was patient even when she was very ill. She never complained or felt sorry for herself. Instead, she offered everything to God. Toward the end of her life, the sisters realized she was not going to get better. They were very sad. "If you loved me, you would be glad," Agnes said. "I am going to enter the glory of Jesus." St. Agnes died in 1317 at the age of forty-nine. She was proclaimed a saint in 1726. Her tomb became a place of pilgrimage. Many people came to pray to this holy woman and to seek her help. Among the pilgrims was the famous St. Catherine of Siena. We celebrate St. Catherine's feast day on April 29.
Reflection: Let us pray today for those who have dedicated their whole lives serving others.

Saint information comes from: http://www.holyspiritinteractive.net/dailysaint/april/0420.asp

"Sing Psalms to our Lord"

Today's Readings:
Acts 4:1-12
Ps 118:1-2, 4, 22-27
Jn 21:1-14

Our responsorial psalm is one of my favorite psalms and all the psalms are such a wonderful way to pray to our God. Psalm 118 is also referenced in our 1st reading today - "the stone rejected by you, the builders, which has become the cornerstone." Christ is the cornerstone and the one who the Church is founded on, and yet the Chruch is also made up of each one of us, 'living stones.' This time last week we were entering into the death of the Lord and now we celebrate his resurection. Today let us take time and give thanks to our Lord who has set us free from sin and brought us to new life in his Church. Have a great day and God Bless.
Your are my God, I give you thanks; my God, I offer you proaise. Give thanks to the Lord, who is goo, whose love endures forever. - Psalm 118 v 28-29

Saint of the Day - St.Stephen Harding
Stephen was a young Englishman who lived in the twelfth century. He was a good student who liked to learn. Stephen was especially interested in literature. He was serious about life and prayed daily. Once Stephen and his friend set out on foot as pilgrims for Rome. When they returned, Stephen joined a very poor and holy group of monks. These men prayed, fasted and worked hard. That was their way of showing their love for God. Stephen noticed how happy they were. Their abbot was another saint, St. Robert. For a while, Stephen served God joyfully with them. But little by little the monks did not want to live such a strict life anymore. So St. Robert and St. Stephen and twenty of the monks started a new monastery. They built it themselves in the wilderness in France called Citeaux. They lived a life of work and great poverty. They wanted to imitate the poverty of Jesus. They kept strict silence. When St. Stephen became the abbot, he had many troubles. The monks had just a little food. Then over half of the monks became sick and died. It looked as though the community would come to an end. They needed new, young members to continue their life. Stephen prayed with faith. And his prayer was rewarded. God sent to these monks called Cistercians thirty young men who wanted to join them. They arrived at the monastery gate all together. Their leader was to become a great saint, too. His name is St. Bernard. We celebrate his feast day on August 20. This was a marvelous day for St. Stephen and the monks. St. Stephen spent the last few years of his life writing a book of rules for the monks. He also trained St. Bernard to take his place. When he lay dying, St. Stephen heard the monks around him whispering. They were saying that Stephen did not have to be afraid to die. He had worked so hard and loved God so much. But St. Stephen said that he was afraid he had not been good enough. And he really meant it. That shows us how humble this great saint was. He died in 1134.
Reflection: We might consider finding some "quiet time" each day to let God work in our minds and hearts.

Saint information comes from: http://www.holyspiritinteractive.net/dailysaint/april/0417.asp

Gift of Self

Today's Readings:
Acts 3:1-10
Ps 105:1-4, 6-9
Lk 24:13-35

In the 1st reading we hear Peter state to a crippled man begging at the gate "I have neither silver nor gold, but what I do have I give you..." Many times we have 'neither silver nor gold' to give either, but do we continue to give what we do have? We can give the gift of our time, the gift of just listening or being there for someone in need; in this we also hear Christ saying that "whatever you did for the least of my brothers/sisters, you did for me..." We may not always be able to give large gifts, but all still have the gift of ourselves that we can share with one another. Today let us do just that, and in doing so, serve our Lord as well. Have a great day and God Bless.
Lord help me to serve you in all those I meet today so that I may grow in the life you won for us in your victory of the cross. We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen.

Saint of the Day - Blessed Damien of Molokai
Joseph "Jeff" de Veuster was born in 1840, the son of Belgian farmers. He and his brother, Pamphile, joined the congregation of the Sacred Hearts. These missionaries were responsible for the Catholic faith on the Hawaiian Islands. Jeff chose the name "Damien." Brother Damien was tall and strong. His years of helping on the family farm had given him a healthy look. Everybody liked him because he was good-natured and generous. More missionaries were needed in the kingdom of Hawaii. In 1863, a group of Sacred Hearts priests and brothers were chosen to go. Pamphile, Damien's brother, was selected. Just before the departure date, Pamphile came down with typhoid fever. He could no longer consider going to the missions. Brother Damien, still studying to become a priest, asked to take his place. The father general accepted Damien's offer. He went home to his family for a loving farewell. Then he took the ship from Belgium to Hawaii, a journey of eighteen weeks. Damien finished his studies and was ordained a priest in Hawaii. He spent eight years among the people of three districts. He traveled on horseback and by canoe. The people loved this tall, generous priest. He saw that they responded to ceremonies. He used the little money he could raise to build chapels. He and volunteer parishioners built the chapels themselves. But the most incredible part of Damien's life was soon to begin. The bishop asked for a volunteer priest to go to the island of Molokai. The very name struck the people with fear and dread. They knew that the section of the island called Kalawao was the "living graveyard" of people dying of leprosy. There was so much ignorance about the disease and such great fear of contagion that lepers were mostly abandoned. Many just despaired. There was no priest, no law enforcement agent on Molokai, no health-care facilities. The Hawaiian government sent some food and medical supplies, but it was not sufficient. And there were no organized means to distribute the goods. Father Damien went to Molokai. Faced with the poverty, corruption and despair, even Damien was shaken. But he made up his mind that for him there was no turning back. The people were desperately in need of help. He went to Honolulu to confront the members of the board of health. They told him that he could not travel back and forth to Molokai for fear of contagion. Their real reason was that they didn't want him on Molokai. He was creating too many problems for them. So Damien had to make a choice: if he went back to Molokai, he could never leave. The board of health didn't know Damien. He chose Molokai. He labored for eighteen years until his death on Molokai. With the help of the lepers and generous volunteers, Molokai was transformed. The word Molokai took on a whole different meaning. It became an island of Christian love. Father Damien eventually became a leper himself. He died on April 15, 1889, at the age of forty-nine and was buried there. He was proclaimed "blessed" by Pope John Paul II in 1994.
Reflection: Blessed Damien showed a remarkable courage and generosity even to the point of giving his life. How is my witness as a Christian? Do I show love and support to those around me?

Saint information comes from: http://www.holyspiritinteractive.net/dailysaint/april/0415.asp

Listen

Today's Readings:
Acts 2:36-41
Ps 33:4-5, 18-20, 22
Jn 20:11-18

Mary Magdalene did not recognize Christ until he specifically called her by name. She was consumed with her sorrow and mourning and could not see her Lord; but when she stopped and listened, he called. How many times does Jesus call us during the day? Do we stop and allow ourselves hear our Lord calling us? This Easter season, let us take time out and listen to what the Lord is saying to us. We believe that he rose from the dead and is truly alive and with us, so let us pay attention to him calling us this day. Have a great day and God Bless.

Saint of the Day - Blessed Lidwina
The name Lidwina means "suffering." Lidwina was from Holland. She was born in 1380 and died in 1433. When she was fifteen, Lidwina dedicated herself completely to God. She might have eventually become a nun. But in a single afternoon, her entire life was changed. The girl went skating with her friends. One of them accidentally bumped her. Lidwina fell down hard on the ice and broke a rib. She was in pain. But the fall triggered other problems, too. In the days ahead, she had severe headaches, nausea, fever, pain throughout her whole body and thirst. Crying, Lidwina told her father she could not stand the pain anymore. But the pain increased. She developed sores on her face and body. She became blind in one eye. Finally, she could no longer leave her bed. Lidwina was frustrated and bitter. Why had God let this happen to her? What did he want from her? And what could she still give to him anyway? Her parish priest, Father John, came to visit and pray with her. He helped her think of what Jesus had suffered. She began to realize the beautiful gift that she would give to Jesus: she would suffer for him. She would offer her sufferings to console him, who had suffered so much on the cross. Her suffering became a beautiful prayer to God. Little by little, Lidwina began to understand. For thirty-eight years, Lidwina suffered. It seemed impossible that she could remain alive in such serious condition. But she did. God comforted her in many ways. Lidwina was good to everyone who came to her poor little room. She prayed to God and suffered for their special intentions. They knew God would listen to Lidwina. Lidwina's special love was for Jesus in the Holy Eucharist. For many years, she seemed to live only on Holy Communion.
Reflection: Let us pray today for a heart able to appreciate the meaning of human suffering.

Saint information comes from: http://www.holyspiritinteractive.net/dailysaint/april/0414.asp

Faith

Today's Readings:
Is 50:4-9
Ps 69:8-10, 21-22, 31, 33-34
Mt 26:14-25

Being a person of faith in today's world can often times be hard; after all, why follow a God who expects us to behave in a certain way when the society lets us do whatever we want...Right? We stand up for our beliefs because we know that this world is not our true home, but only a journey. Our true home is in Heaven with our Lord, and we show the world how loving our God is by our actions and words; by bringing about Christ through us. As we near the great celebration of Christ's Passion, let us recommit ourselves to our faith and to Jesus. Have a great day and God Bless.
Jesus we know you died for our sins, help us today to die to self so that we may live for you. Grant this through your holy name. Amen.

Saint of the Day - St. Julie Billiart
Mary Rose Julie Billiart was born in Belgium in 1751. Her uncle, the village school teacher, taught her to read and write. She especially loved to study her catechism. In fact, when she was just seven, Julie would explain the faith to other little children. When her parents became poor, she worked hard to help support the family. She even went to harvest the crops. Yet she always found time to pray, to visit the sick, and to teach catechism. While she was still a young woman, she became very ill and completely paralyzed. Although helpless, St. Julie offered her prayers so that many people would find eternal happiness with God. She was more united to God than ever and kept on teaching catechism from bed. She was a very spiritual person. People came to her for advice because she helped them grow closer to Jesus and practice their faith with more love. She encouraged all to receive Holy Communion often. Many young women were inspired by Julie's love for God. They were willing to spend their time and money for good works. With Julie as their leader, they started the Sisters of Notre Dame de Namur. Once a priest gave a mission in the town where Julie was. He asked her to make a novena with him for an intention which he would not tell her. After five days, on the feast of the Sacred Heart, he said: "Mother, if you have faith, take one step in honor of the Sacred Heart of Jesus." Mother Billiart, who had been paralyzed for twenty-two years, stood up and was cured! St. Julie spent the rest of her life training young women to become sisters. She watched over her congregation. She had to suffer much from those who did not understand her mission, but she always trusted God. Her favorite words were: "How good is the good God." He assured her that someday her religious congregation would be very large. And that is just what happened. Although St. Julie died on April 8, 1816, today there are many of St. Julie's sisters all over the world. Mother Julie was proclaimed a saint by Pope Paul VI in 1969.
Reflection: "How good is the good God." -St. Julie Billiart

Saint information comes from: http://www.holyspiritinteractive.net/dailysaint/april/0408.asp

Follow Christ

Today's Readings:
Is 49:1-6
Ps 71:1-6, 15, 17
Jn 13:21-33, 36-38

The 1st few lines of our Gospel today are very powerful; Jesus is "deeply troubled" and speaks about the fact that one of the apostles will betray him. Whenever we sin, we are turning away from Jesus and selfishly looking at ourselves; and yet it is only when we follow Christ that we are truly joyful. Sin hurts our relationship with our loving God and our relationship with one another, which is why Christ came to save us from sin. As we grow closer to the Passion and death of our Lord this week, let truly allow ourselves to follow Christ and turn away from anything that may keep us from him. Have a great day and God Bless.
Lord, you suffered and died so that we may live, fill us with your Life so that we may live for you and you alone. We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen.

Saint of the Day - St. John Baptist De La Salle
St. John Baptist de la Salle was born in Rheims, France, on April 30, 1651. His parents were from the nobility. John was used to elegant living. But he was a devout boy, too. He loved Jesus and his Church. In fact, he was studying to become a priest when both his parents died. He had to leave the seminary and go home to take care of his brothers. But while he was teaching and training them, he kept on studying too. His brothers turned out to be fine young men. When their studies were completed, John Baptist was ordained a priest. At that time, the nobles, like Father de la Salle's family, had the chance to be well educated. However, the common people remained poor and ignorant. They had no opportunity to go to school. St. John Baptist felt very sorry for the children of the poor. He decided to do something about the situation. He began to open schools for them. To provide teachers, he started a new order, the Brothers of the Christian Schools. Although Father de la Salle also taught the children himself, he spent most of his time training the teaching brothers. For them he wrote a rule of life and a book explaining the best way to teach. He was one of the best educators of all time. He believed in teaching in the language of the people, not in Latin, as others did. He grouped the students into classes. He stressed the importance of silence while the lesson was being taught. After a while, the brothers opened more schools. They taught the sons of the working people and nobles, too. Many difficulties faced the new order. St. John Baptist's constant prayer and sacrifices blessed the work. It continued to grow and spread. Father de la Salle's health was never good. His asthma and arthritis caused him constant pain. Despite this, he would never allow himself to take on an easier lifestyle. He died on Good Friday, April 7, 1719, at the age of sixty-eight. He was proclaimed a saint by Pope Leo XIII in 1900. Pope Pius XII declared him the patron of teachers in 1950.
Reflection: "I adore God's manner of acting in all things in my regard."-St. John Baptist de la Salle

Saint information comes from: http://www.holyspiritinteractive.net/dailysaint/april/0407.asp

Ministering to those in need

Today's Readings:
Is 42:1-7
Ps 27:1-3, 13-14
Jn 12:1-11

How gentle and caring is our God, Isaiah tells us that "a bruised reed he shall not break, and a smoldering wick he shall not quench..." Yet in doing this, he is not only caring for each of us, but letting us know how we are to care for one another. We are to reach out to those who struggle with their faith, their academics, or with themselves; we are all 'bruised' in some way or another, the question is do minister to each other when we see them in need? Today let us truly take the example of love God has shown us and do the same for all we meet this day. Have a great day and God Bless.
Lord God, you strengthen us when we are weak and stir the spark of faith into a flame of love for you; help us this day to take this example and do the same for all of our brothers and sisters this day. We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen.

Saint of the Day - Blessed Notker
This Benedictine monk had once been a sickly child. He had a very noticeable speech impediment all his life. Notker was determined not to let it get in his way. This made him even more likable than he already was. He and two other friends, Tutilo and Radpert, were very happy monks. They encouraged each other in their vocations at the monastery of Saint Gall in Germany. Their common love for God and for music made them lifelong friends. You can read about St. Tutilo on March 28. King Charles visited the great monastery from time to time. He highly respected Notker and asked him for advice. Unfortunately, he didn't usually follow the advice. One time King Charles sent his messenger to ask to see the monk. Notker was taking care of his garden. He sent this message: "Take care of your garden as I am taking care of mine." King Charles understood that he should be taking better care of his own soul and of his kingdom. The king's personal chaplain was educated but very conceited. He was upset because the king valued Notker's opinion so much. In front of everybody at court one day, he asked Notker, "Since you are so intelligent, tell me what God is doing right now." The priest smiled at the monk, thinking he would never have an answer. Instead, Notker responded quickly, "God is doing now what he has always done. He is pushing down those who are proud and is raising up the lowly." The people started laughing as the chaplain quickly left the room. Blessed Notker spent the rest of his life in his chosen vocation. He did many little extra things to make monastery life pleasant for the monks. With his friends, Tutilo and Radpert, he created beautiful music for the worship of God.
Reflection: "God is doing now what he has always done. He is pushing down those who are proud and is raising up the lowly."-Blessed Notker

Saint information comes from: http://www.holyspiritinteractive.net/dailysaint/april/0406.asp

Trust in God

Today's Readings:
Dn 3:14-20, 91-92, 95
Daniel 3:52-56
Jn 8:31-42

Jesus tells us today that though we were slaves to sin, through him we shall become free. The question is, have we placed our trust and hope in this promise? In Christ himself? Sometimes I think we start out with great intentions, but then pull back. We know that God is in control; but at times we try to take control for ourselves, not giving ourselves fully to him who gave himself up for us. Christ would never lead us into harm, in fact he has given us the promise that he will be with us always and given the Spirit to protect us. Today let us give ourselves to that hope and truly allow our Lord to direct us in his path and not our own. Have a great day and God Bless.
Lord Jesus, you are the way, the truth, and the life; lead us this day and help us always to remain close to you and our Heavenly Father. We ask this through you in your name Jesus. Amen

Saint of the Day - St. Hugh of Grenoble
St. Hugh was born in 1052 in France. He grew up to be tall and handsome, gentle and courteous. Although he always wanted to live for God as a monk, he was given important positions instead. He was ordained a priest and then a bishop. As bishop, Hugh began at once to correct the sinful customs of some people in his diocese. He made wise plans, but that was not all he did. To draw God's mercy upon his people, St. Hugh prayed with his whole heart. He practiced hard penances. In a short time, many became very virtuous and pious. Only some of the nobility continued to oppose him. Bishop Hugh still thought about the life of a monk. That's what he truly wanted. He resigned as bishop of Grenoble and entered a monastery. At last, he was at peace. Yet it was not God's will for Hugh to be a monk. After a year, the pope commanded him to go back to Grenoble again. St. Hugh obeyed. He knew it was more important to please God than to please himself. For forty years, the bishop was sick nearly all the time. He had severe headaches and stomach problems. Yet he forced himself to keep working. He loved his people and there was so much to do for them. He suffered from trials and temptations, too. But he prayed and never gave in to sin. St. Hugh died on April 1, 1132, two months before his eightieth birthday. He had been a generous and saintly bishop for fifty-two years. In 1134, just two years after.
Reflection: Today let us pray to God to help us know what he desires for us.

Saint information comes from: http://www.holyspiritinteractive.net/dailysaint/april/0401.asp