Today's Readings:
Acts 17:15, 22-18:1
Ps 148:1-2, 11-14
Jn 16:12-15
Jesus states today that "I have much more to tell you, but you can not bear it now." As mortal beings we are all limited and are at different stages in our faith, God recognizes this and deals with us accordingly. We should be encouraged by the fact that Christ meets us where we are and still know that through his love he wishes not to leave us there but to continue to help us grow in our faith. Today let us ask the Spirit to continue to help us on our journey of faith and continue to grow in our love of God. Have a great day and God Bless
Lord you know our hearts better than we know ourselves, help us with your grace to continue to grow as a people of faith. We ask this through your Son's holy name, Jesus the Christ. Amen
Saint of the Day - St. Bernadine of Siena
St. Bernardine of Siena was born in 1380 in a town near Siena, Italy. He was the son of an Italian governor. His parents died when he was seven. His relatives loved him as if he were their own. They also gave him a good education. He grew up to be a tall, handsome boy. He was so much fun that his friends loved to be with him. Yet they knew better than to use any dirty words when he was around. He would not put up with it. Twice when a man tried to lead him into sin, Bernardine punched him and sent him on his way. The saint had a special love for the Blessed Mother. She was the one who kept him pure. Even when he was a teenager, Bernardine would pray to her as a child talks with his mother. Bernardine was tender hearted. He felt great pity for the poor. Once, his aunt had no extra food to give a beggar. The boy cried, "I'd rather go without food myself than leave that poor man with none." When a plague struck the area in 1400, Bernardine and his friends volunteered their services at the hospital. They helped the sick and dying day and night for six weeks until the plague had ended. Bernardine joined the Franciscan order when he was twenty-two. He became a priest. After several years, he was assigned to go to towns and cities to preach. The people needed to be reminded about the love of Jesus. In those days, bad habits were ruining both young and old people. "How can I save these people by myself?" Bernardine asked the Lord in prayer. "With what weapons can I fight the devil?" And God answered, "My Holy Name will be enough for you." So Bernardine spread devotion to the Holy Name of Jesus. He used this Name a great many times in every sermon. He asked people to print Jesus' Name over the gates of their cities, over their doorways-everywhere. Through devotion to the Holy Name of Jesus and devotion to the Blessed Mother, Bernardine brought thousands of people from all over Italy back to the Church. St. Bernardine spent forty-two years of his life as a Franciscan. He died at the age of sixty-four in Aquila, Italy. It was May 20, 1444. He was declared a saint just six years later, in 1450, by Pope Nicholas V.
Reflection: "If you speak of God, speak with love. If you speak of yourself, speak with love. Take care that there is nothing in you but love, love, love."-St. Bernadine of Siena
Saint information comes from: http://www.holyspiritinteractive.net/dailysaint/may/0520.asp
Wednesday, May 20, 2009
Tuesday, May 19, 2009
Prepared for the Spirit
Today's Readings:
Acts 16:22-34
Ps 131:1-3, 7-8
Jn 16:5-11
In our Gospel today, Christ is preparing his disciples for his Ascension into Heaven and the coming of the Holy Spirit; the question is are we prepared? The Holy Spirit comes to dwell within us, but have we made room in our hearts for him? To do this we must be a people of prayer and a people of love. We must live out that commandment to love Christ has given us, and remove anything from our hearts that might keep the Spirit from entering our heart. This day let us go to the Father and ask him to make our hearts a dwelling place for his Spirit. Have a great day and God Bless.
Lord God, remove from us anything that would keep us from you and fill us with your love, your truth, your Spirit. We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen
Saint of the Day - St. Celestine V
Peter di Morone was the eleventh of twelve children. He was born around 1210 in Isernia, Italy. His father died when he was small. The family was poor, but Peter's mother raised her children with great love. She sent Peter to school because he showed such promise and an eagerness to learn. Once she asked as usual, "Which one of you is going to become a saint?" Little Peter who was to become Pope Celestine answered with all his heart, "Me, Mama! I'll become a saint!" And he did. But it wasn't easy. When he was twenty, Peter became a hermit. He spent his days praying, reading the Bible and doing his work. Other hermits kept coming to him and asking him to guide them. Eventually, he started a new order of monks. When Peter was eighty-four years of age, he was made pope. It came about in a very unusual way. For two years there had been no pope. This was because the cardinals could not agree on whom to choose. Peter sent them a message. He warned them to decide quickly, because God was not pleased with the long delay. The cardinals did as the monk said. Then and there, they chose Peter the hermit to be pope! The poor man wept when he heard the news. He accepted sadly and took the name Celestine V. He was pope only about five months. Because he was so humble and simple, people took advantage of him. He could not say "no" to anyone. Soon there was great confusion. Pope Celestine felt very responsible for all the trouble. He decided that the best thing he could do for the Church was give up his position. He did so. He asked forgiveness for not having governed the Church well. All St. Celestine wanted was to live in one of his monasteries in peace. But the new pope, Boniface VIII, thought it would be safer to keep him hidden in a small room in one of the Roman palaces. St. Celestine spent the last ten months of his life in a plain cell-like room. But he became his cheerful self again. "All you wanted was a cell, Peter," he would repeat to himself. "Well, you've got it." He died on May 19, 1296. He was proclaimed a saint by Pope Clement VI in 1313.
Reflection: When we feel discouraged because we do not see the fruits of our work, this might be an invitation from the Lord to simply do our best and leave the results up to him.
Saint information comes from: http://www.holyspiritinteractive.net/dailysaint/may/0519.asp
Acts 16:22-34
Ps 131:1-3, 7-8
Jn 16:5-11
In our Gospel today, Christ is preparing his disciples for his Ascension into Heaven and the coming of the Holy Spirit; the question is are we prepared? The Holy Spirit comes to dwell within us, but have we made room in our hearts for him? To do this we must be a people of prayer and a people of love. We must live out that commandment to love Christ has given us, and remove anything from our hearts that might keep the Spirit from entering our heart. This day let us go to the Father and ask him to make our hearts a dwelling place for his Spirit. Have a great day and God Bless.
Lord God, remove from us anything that would keep us from you and fill us with your love, your truth, your Spirit. We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen
Saint of the Day - St. Celestine V
Peter di Morone was the eleventh of twelve children. He was born around 1210 in Isernia, Italy. His father died when he was small. The family was poor, but Peter's mother raised her children with great love. She sent Peter to school because he showed such promise and an eagerness to learn. Once she asked as usual, "Which one of you is going to become a saint?" Little Peter who was to become Pope Celestine answered with all his heart, "Me, Mama! I'll become a saint!" And he did. But it wasn't easy. When he was twenty, Peter became a hermit. He spent his days praying, reading the Bible and doing his work. Other hermits kept coming to him and asking him to guide them. Eventually, he started a new order of monks. When Peter was eighty-four years of age, he was made pope. It came about in a very unusual way. For two years there had been no pope. This was because the cardinals could not agree on whom to choose. Peter sent them a message. He warned them to decide quickly, because God was not pleased with the long delay. The cardinals did as the monk said. Then and there, they chose Peter the hermit to be pope! The poor man wept when he heard the news. He accepted sadly and took the name Celestine V. He was pope only about five months. Because he was so humble and simple, people took advantage of him. He could not say "no" to anyone. Soon there was great confusion. Pope Celestine felt very responsible for all the trouble. He decided that the best thing he could do for the Church was give up his position. He did so. He asked forgiveness for not having governed the Church well. All St. Celestine wanted was to live in one of his monasteries in peace. But the new pope, Boniface VIII, thought it would be safer to keep him hidden in a small room in one of the Roman palaces. St. Celestine spent the last ten months of his life in a plain cell-like room. But he became his cheerful self again. "All you wanted was a cell, Peter," he would repeat to himself. "Well, you've got it." He died on May 19, 1296. He was proclaimed a saint by Pope Clement VI in 1313.
Reflection: When we feel discouraged because we do not see the fruits of our work, this might be an invitation from the Lord to simply do our best and leave the results up to him.
Saint information comes from: http://www.holyspiritinteractive.net/dailysaint/may/0519.asp
Monday, May 18, 2009
Witnesses
Today's Readings:
Acts 16:11-15
Ps 149:1-6, 9
Jn 15:26-16:4
Jesus tells us today that the Advocate (the Holy Spirit) will come and testify to him and that we also will testify to Christ. We who have received the Holy Spirit through Baptism are now called to be witnesses to Jesus. We give witness to God by our daily living out his call to love through our actions and words. Today let us do nothing to sadden the Holy Spirit within us, rather rejoice in the love God has filled us with and now calls us to share with one another. Have a great day and God Bless.
Lord, may the fire of your love consume our sins and its brightness illumine our hearts. Amen.
Saint of the Day - St. John I
John I was a priest of Rome. He became pope after the death of Pope St. Hormisdas in 523. At that time, Italy's ruler, Theodoric the Goth, was an Arian. (The Arians did not believe that Jesus is God.) Theodoric let Catholics alone at the beginning of his reign. Later, however, he changed and became arrogant and suspicious of everyone. He imagined there was a conspiracy against him. After a while, he believed the whole world was out to get his throne and his power. The one person who most certainly did not want either was the pope. Theodoric was trying to get Pope John involved in his political problems. The emperor was having trouble with Emperor Justin I of Constantinople. It had been reported that Justin was being too hard on the Arians in the east. Theodoric sent a delegation to negotiate with Justin. The delegation was headed by Pope John I. Emperor Justin received the pope and his companions with rejoicing. Justin was very willing to change his harsh policy. Pope John's mission went very well. But Emperor Theodoric was not pleased. He imagined that Pope John and Justin I were against him. The pope was returning to Rome and got as far as Ravenna, Theodoric's capital. Pope John was kidnapped and thrown into prison by Theodoric's soldiers. There the pope died of thirst and starvation in 526.
Reflection: Let us ask always the Holy Spirit for light and guidance so that we may see the goodness in people.
Saint information comes from: http://www.holyspiritinteractive.net/dailysaint/may/0518.asp
Acts 16:11-15
Ps 149:1-6, 9
Jn 15:26-16:4
Jesus tells us today that the Advocate (the Holy Spirit) will come and testify to him and that we also will testify to Christ. We who have received the Holy Spirit through Baptism are now called to be witnesses to Jesus. We give witness to God by our daily living out his call to love through our actions and words. Today let us do nothing to sadden the Holy Spirit within us, rather rejoice in the love God has filled us with and now calls us to share with one another. Have a great day and God Bless.
Lord, may the fire of your love consume our sins and its brightness illumine our hearts. Amen.
Saint of the Day - St. John I
John I was a priest of Rome. He became pope after the death of Pope St. Hormisdas in 523. At that time, Italy's ruler, Theodoric the Goth, was an Arian. (The Arians did not believe that Jesus is God.) Theodoric let Catholics alone at the beginning of his reign. Later, however, he changed and became arrogant and suspicious of everyone. He imagined there was a conspiracy against him. After a while, he believed the whole world was out to get his throne and his power. The one person who most certainly did not want either was the pope. Theodoric was trying to get Pope John involved in his political problems. The emperor was having trouble with Emperor Justin I of Constantinople. It had been reported that Justin was being too hard on the Arians in the east. Theodoric sent a delegation to negotiate with Justin. The delegation was headed by Pope John I. Emperor Justin received the pope and his companions with rejoicing. Justin was very willing to change his harsh policy. Pope John's mission went very well. But Emperor Theodoric was not pleased. He imagined that Pope John and Justin I were against him. The pope was returning to Rome and got as far as Ravenna, Theodoric's capital. Pope John was kidnapped and thrown into prison by Theodoric's soldiers. There the pope died of thirst and starvation in 526.
Reflection: Let us ask always the Holy Spirit for light and guidance so that we may see the goodness in people.
Saint information comes from: http://www.holyspiritinteractive.net/dailysaint/may/0518.asp
Friday, May 15, 2009
Thanks
Today's Readings:
Acts 15:22-31
Ps 57:8-10, 12
Jn 15:12-17
As we approach the last few days of school it is easy to get caught up in all we have to get done and forget about taking time out to thank our Lord for all he has already done for us. He states in the Gospel that it was not us who chose him, but he chose us first. He called us to himself so that we may go and bear fruit in all that we do. Today let us thank him for this great gift he has given us in his calling us to himself and let us celebrate with joy all the gifts he has filled us with. Have a great day and God Bless.
Lord God, thank you for calling us to yourself; and we just ask that you help us to spend this day for your greater glory and honor, and that we may give you praise in all that we do. We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen.
Saint of the Day - St. Isidore the Farmer
This saint was born in 1070, in Madrid, Spain. His parents were deeply religious. They named their son after the great St. Isidore, archbishop of Seville, Spain. We celebrate his feast on April 4. Isidore's parents wanted to offer their son a first-rate education, but they could not afford it. They were tenant farmers. Their son would spend his life in the same occupation. Isidore went to work for a rich land owner in Madrid. The man's name was John de Vargas. Isidore worked all his life for Mr. de Vargas. He married a good girl from a family as poor as his own. The couple loved each other very much. They had one child, a boy, who died as a baby. Isidore and his wife offered to Jesus their sadness over the child's death. They trusted their son was happy with God forever. St. Isidore began each day at Mass. Then he would go to his job. He tried to work hard even if he didn't feel like it. He plowed and planted and prayed. He called on Mary, the saints and his guardian angel. They helped him turn ordinary days into special, joyful times. The world of faith became very real to St. Isidore, as real as Mr. de Vargas' fields. When he had a day off, Isidore made it a point to spend extra time adoring Jesus in church. Sometimes, on holidays, Isidore and his wife would visit a few neighboring parishes on a one day pilgrimage of prayer. Once the parish had a dinner. Isidore arrived early and went into the church to pray. He arrived in the parish hall late. He didn't come in alone. He brought a group of beggars, too. The parishioners were upset. What if there wasn't enough food for all those beggars? But the more they filled up their plates, the more there was for everybody else. St. Isidore said kindly, "There is always enough for the poor of Jesus." Stories of miracles began to circulate about this farm worker saint. Isidore was totally unselfish. He was a loving and compassionate human being. He is one of Spain's most popular saints. Isidore died on May 15, 1130. In March, 1622, Pope Gregory XV proclaimed five great saints together. They were St. Ignatius Loyola, St. Francis Xavier, St. Teresa of Avila, St. Philip Neri and St. Isidore the Farmer.
Reflection: Caring for the gifts that surround him marked the life of this saint. He let his faith in Jesus and the Church light up his whole life. Perhaps we can make an effort to share the gifts we have especially with the poor.
Saint information comes from: http://www.holyspiritinteractive.net/dailysaint/may/0515.asp
Acts 15:22-31
Ps 57:8-10, 12
Jn 15:12-17
As we approach the last few days of school it is easy to get caught up in all we have to get done and forget about taking time out to thank our Lord for all he has already done for us. He states in the Gospel that it was not us who chose him, but he chose us first. He called us to himself so that we may go and bear fruit in all that we do. Today let us thank him for this great gift he has given us in his calling us to himself and let us celebrate with joy all the gifts he has filled us with. Have a great day and God Bless.
Lord God, thank you for calling us to yourself; and we just ask that you help us to spend this day for your greater glory and honor, and that we may give you praise in all that we do. We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen.
Saint of the Day - St. Isidore the Farmer
This saint was born in 1070, in Madrid, Spain. His parents were deeply religious. They named their son after the great St. Isidore, archbishop of Seville, Spain. We celebrate his feast on April 4. Isidore's parents wanted to offer their son a first-rate education, but they could not afford it. They were tenant farmers. Their son would spend his life in the same occupation. Isidore went to work for a rich land owner in Madrid. The man's name was John de Vargas. Isidore worked all his life for Mr. de Vargas. He married a good girl from a family as poor as his own. The couple loved each other very much. They had one child, a boy, who died as a baby. Isidore and his wife offered to Jesus their sadness over the child's death. They trusted their son was happy with God forever. St. Isidore began each day at Mass. Then he would go to his job. He tried to work hard even if he didn't feel like it. He plowed and planted and prayed. He called on Mary, the saints and his guardian angel. They helped him turn ordinary days into special, joyful times. The world of faith became very real to St. Isidore, as real as Mr. de Vargas' fields. When he had a day off, Isidore made it a point to spend extra time adoring Jesus in church. Sometimes, on holidays, Isidore and his wife would visit a few neighboring parishes on a one day pilgrimage of prayer. Once the parish had a dinner. Isidore arrived early and went into the church to pray. He arrived in the parish hall late. He didn't come in alone. He brought a group of beggars, too. The parishioners were upset. What if there wasn't enough food for all those beggars? But the more they filled up their plates, the more there was for everybody else. St. Isidore said kindly, "There is always enough for the poor of Jesus." Stories of miracles began to circulate about this farm worker saint. Isidore was totally unselfish. He was a loving and compassionate human being. He is one of Spain's most popular saints. Isidore died on May 15, 1130. In March, 1622, Pope Gregory XV proclaimed five great saints together. They were St. Ignatius Loyola, St. Francis Xavier, St. Teresa of Avila, St. Philip Neri and St. Isidore the Farmer.
Reflection: Caring for the gifts that surround him marked the life of this saint. He let his faith in Jesus and the Church light up his whole life. Perhaps we can make an effort to share the gifts we have especially with the poor.
Saint information comes from: http://www.holyspiritinteractive.net/dailysaint/may/0515.asp
Wednesday, May 13, 2009
The Vine
Today's Readings:
Acts 15:1-6
Ps 122:1-5
Jn 15:1-8
Christians are often asked why they "have to bring God into everything." The answer is quite simple, our entire lives should revolve around our faith and belief that God is with us always, not just when we go to church. Jesus today speaks about how he is the vine and we are the branches; if we separate ourselves from him, our work can bear no fruit. It is only remaining attached to the vine, remaining attached to Christ that we can be fruitful and go on to receive our eternal reward in Heaven. This day let us remain attached to Christ so all that we do may be for him and his greater glory. Have a great day and God Bless.
Lord, help us to remain with you always and may all that we do be for you glory. May you reap a bountiful harvest form us as we journey closer to you in all that we do. We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen.
Saint of the Day - St. Andrew Fournet
St. Andrew Fournet was born on December 6, 1752. He was from Maille, a little town near Poitiers, in France. Andrew's parents were religious people. Mrs. Fournet had her heart set on Andrew becoming a priest. The little boy heard this more often than he cared to. Once he declared, "I'm a good boy, but I'm still not going to be a priest or monk." When he grew up, he went to Poitiers to study college subjects. But that did not last long. He was having too good of a time. His mother followed him and steered him to good occupations. But they fell through, one after another. His mother was frantic. There was only one more possibility. She talked Andrew into going to stay for a while with his uncle, a priest. His uncle's parish was poor and his uncle was a holy man. For some unpredictable reason, Andrew agreed. This was God's "teachable moment." Andrew's uncle recognized his nephew's good qualities. His own example sparked something in Andrew and he settled down. He began to study seriously and to make up for lost time. He was ordained a priest and was assigned to his uncle's parish. In 1781, he was transferred to his home parish in Maille. His mother was jubilant. He had become a caring, prayerful priest. When the French Revolution began, St. Andrew refused to take an oath that was against the Church. He became a hunted man. In 1792, he was forced to flee to Spain. There he remained for five years. But he worried about his people and went back to France. The danger was as great as before. Father Fournet was protected by his flock. He nearly escaped death several times. Meanwhile, he heard confessions, celebrated the Eucharist, gave the Last Rites. When the Church was free again, St. Andrew came out of hiding. He was always inviting his people to love and serve God. One of the good ladies from the area, St. Elizabeth Bichier des Ages, helped St. Andrew very much. Together they started an order of sisters called the Daughters of the Cross. St. Elizabeth's feast day is August 26. St. Andrew died on May 13, 1834, at the age of eighty-two. He was proclaimed a saint by Pope Pius XI on June 4, 1933.
Reflection: Let us always ask God to fulfill the good work he has begun in us that we might live freely and completely.
Saint information comes from: http://www.holyspiritinteractive.net/dailysaint/may/0513.asp
Acts 15:1-6
Ps 122:1-5
Jn 15:1-8
Christians are often asked why they "have to bring God into everything." The answer is quite simple, our entire lives should revolve around our faith and belief that God is with us always, not just when we go to church. Jesus today speaks about how he is the vine and we are the branches; if we separate ourselves from him, our work can bear no fruit. It is only remaining attached to the vine, remaining attached to Christ that we can be fruitful and go on to receive our eternal reward in Heaven. This day let us remain attached to Christ so all that we do may be for him and his greater glory. Have a great day and God Bless.
Lord, help us to remain with you always and may all that we do be for you glory. May you reap a bountiful harvest form us as we journey closer to you in all that we do. We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen.
Saint of the Day - St. Andrew Fournet
St. Andrew Fournet was born on December 6, 1752. He was from Maille, a little town near Poitiers, in France. Andrew's parents were religious people. Mrs. Fournet had her heart set on Andrew becoming a priest. The little boy heard this more often than he cared to. Once he declared, "I'm a good boy, but I'm still not going to be a priest or monk." When he grew up, he went to Poitiers to study college subjects. But that did not last long. He was having too good of a time. His mother followed him and steered him to good occupations. But they fell through, one after another. His mother was frantic. There was only one more possibility. She talked Andrew into going to stay for a while with his uncle, a priest. His uncle's parish was poor and his uncle was a holy man. For some unpredictable reason, Andrew agreed. This was God's "teachable moment." Andrew's uncle recognized his nephew's good qualities. His own example sparked something in Andrew and he settled down. He began to study seriously and to make up for lost time. He was ordained a priest and was assigned to his uncle's parish. In 1781, he was transferred to his home parish in Maille. His mother was jubilant. He had become a caring, prayerful priest. When the French Revolution began, St. Andrew refused to take an oath that was against the Church. He became a hunted man. In 1792, he was forced to flee to Spain. There he remained for five years. But he worried about his people and went back to France. The danger was as great as before. Father Fournet was protected by his flock. He nearly escaped death several times. Meanwhile, he heard confessions, celebrated the Eucharist, gave the Last Rites. When the Church was free again, St. Andrew came out of hiding. He was always inviting his people to love and serve God. One of the good ladies from the area, St. Elizabeth Bichier des Ages, helped St. Andrew very much. Together they started an order of sisters called the Daughters of the Cross. St. Elizabeth's feast day is August 26. St. Andrew died on May 13, 1834, at the age of eighty-two. He was proclaimed a saint by Pope Pius XI on June 4, 1933.
Reflection: Let us always ask God to fulfill the good work he has begun in us that we might live freely and completely.
Saint information comes from: http://www.holyspiritinteractive.net/dailysaint/may/0513.asp
Tuesday, May 12, 2009
Shalom
Today's Readings:
Acts 14:19-28
Ps 145:10-13, 21
Jn 14:27-31
In our Gospel reading, Jesus is preparing his disciples for his Ascension to the Father and greets them with the traditional Hebrew greeting of 'Shalom' which can be translated as 'peace be with you." Jesus tells his friends that this peace is not the peace of the world, but the peace that only the Father can give. Christ offers that peace to us as well each day. It is the peace of knowing the Lord has called us to himself and that we are following in his way. It is the peace of knowing that Christ will always be with us and filling us with his Spirit. It is the peace of knowing that truly we were created by a loving and merciful God and that our end is in him. Have a great day and Shalom.
Lord, your peace is an everlasting peace and we ask you to fill us with that peace as we spend this day doing your work and giving glory to you.
Saint of the Day - St. Nereus, St. Achilleus, & St. Pancras
Nereus and Achilleus were Roman soldiers who died around 304. They were probably Praetorian guards under Emperor Trajan. We know little else about them. But what we do know comes from two popes who lived in the fourth century, Pope Siricius and Pope Damasus. In 398, Pope Siricius built a church in their honor in Rome. Pope Damasus wrote a brief tribute to the martyrs. He explained that Nereus and Achilleus were converted to the Christian faith. They left behind their weapons forever. They were true followers of Jesus even at the cost of their own lives. Nereus and Achilleus were sent into exile to the island of Terracina. There they were beheaded. In the sixth century, a second church was built in another part of Rome to honor these two martyrs. St. Pancras, a fourteen-year-old orphan, lived at the same time. He could possibly have been killed on the same day. Pancras was not a native of Rome. He was brought there by his uncle who looked after him. He became a follower of Jesus and was baptized. Although just a boy, he was arrested for being a Christian. Pancras refused to give up his faith. For that, he was sentenced to death. Pancras was beheaded. He became a very popular martyr in the early Church. People admired him for being so young and so brave. In 514, a large church was built in Rome to honor him. In 596, the famous missionary, St. Augustine of Canterbury, went to bring the Christian faith to England. He named his first church there after St. Pancras.
Reflection: With the help of the prayers of these three saints, may we understand what it means to be members
Saint information comes from: http://www.holyspiritinteractive.net/dailysaint/may/0512.asp
Acts 14:19-28
Ps 145:10-13, 21
Jn 14:27-31
In our Gospel reading, Jesus is preparing his disciples for his Ascension to the Father and greets them with the traditional Hebrew greeting of 'Shalom' which can be translated as 'peace be with you." Jesus tells his friends that this peace is not the peace of the world, but the peace that only the Father can give. Christ offers that peace to us as well each day. It is the peace of knowing the Lord has called us to himself and that we are following in his way. It is the peace of knowing that Christ will always be with us and filling us with his Spirit. It is the peace of knowing that truly we were created by a loving and merciful God and that our end is in him. Have a great day and Shalom.
Lord, your peace is an everlasting peace and we ask you to fill us with that peace as we spend this day doing your work and giving glory to you.
Saint of the Day - St. Nereus, St. Achilleus, & St. Pancras
Nereus and Achilleus were Roman soldiers who died around 304. They were probably Praetorian guards under Emperor Trajan. We know little else about them. But what we do know comes from two popes who lived in the fourth century, Pope Siricius and Pope Damasus. In 398, Pope Siricius built a church in their honor in Rome. Pope Damasus wrote a brief tribute to the martyrs. He explained that Nereus and Achilleus were converted to the Christian faith. They left behind their weapons forever. They were true followers of Jesus even at the cost of their own lives. Nereus and Achilleus were sent into exile to the island of Terracina. There they were beheaded. In the sixth century, a second church was built in another part of Rome to honor these two martyrs. St. Pancras, a fourteen-year-old orphan, lived at the same time. He could possibly have been killed on the same day. Pancras was not a native of Rome. He was brought there by his uncle who looked after him. He became a follower of Jesus and was baptized. Although just a boy, he was arrested for being a Christian. Pancras refused to give up his faith. For that, he was sentenced to death. Pancras was beheaded. He became a very popular martyr in the early Church. People admired him for being so young and so brave. In 514, a large church was built in Rome to honor him. In 596, the famous missionary, St. Augustine of Canterbury, went to bring the Christian faith to England. He named his first church there after St. Pancras.
Reflection: With the help of the prayers of these three saints, may we understand what it means to be members
Saint information comes from: http://www.holyspiritinteractive.net/dailysaint/may/0512.asp
Monday, May 11, 2009
Holy Spirit
Today's Readings:
Acts 14:5-18
Ps 115:1-4, 15-16
Jn 14:21-26
Jesus tells his disciples that he will send the Advocate, the Holy Spirit to be with them after he has gone to the Father and he will teach them and remind them of all that Christ told them. We too have been given that Holy Spirit through our Baptism and Confirmation. Let us allow the Spirit to direct us in all that we do so that we may follow in the footsteps of Christ and allow him to work through us this day. Have a great day and God Bless.
Come Holy Spirit, fill the hearts of the faithful and enkindle in us the fire of your love.
Saint of the Day - St. Ignatius of Laconi
Ignatius was the son of a poor farmer in Laconi, Italy. He was born on December 17, 1701. When he was about seventeen, he became very ill. He promised to be a Franciscan if he would get better. But when the illness left him, his father convinced him to wait. A couple of years later, Ignatius was almost killed when he lost control of his horse. Suddenly, however, the horse stopped and trotted on quietly. Ignatius was convinced, then, that God had saved his life. He made up his mind to follow his religious vocation at once. Brother Ignatius never had any important position in the Franciscan order. For fifteen years he worked in the weaving shed. Then, for forty years, he was part of the team who went out from house to house. They requested food and donations to support the friars. Ignatius visited families and received their gift. But the people soon realized that they received a gift in return. Brother Ignatius consoled the sick and cheered up the lonely. He made peace between enemies, converted people hardened by sin and advised those in trouble. They began to wait for his visits. There were some difficult days, too. Once in a while, a door was slammed in his face, and often the weather was bad. Always, there were miles and miles to walk. But Ignatius was dedicated. Yet people noticed he used to skip one house. The owner was a rich moneylender. He made the poor pay back much more than they could afford. This man felt humiliated because Ignatius never visited his home to ask for donations. He complained to Brother Ignatius' superior. The superior knew nothing about the moneylender so he sent Ignatius to his home. Brother Ignatius never said a word, but did as he was told. He returned with a large sack of food. It was then that God worked a miracle. When the sack was emptied, blood dripped out. "This is the blood of the poor," Ignatius explained softly. "That is why I never ask for anything at that house." The friars began to pray that the moneylender would repent. Brother Ignatius died at the age of eighty, on May 11, 1781. He was proclaimed a saint by Pope Pius XII in 1951.
Reflection: This saint showed us that one of the best gifts we can give anyone is good example. What message to others does my example give?
Saint information comes from: http://www.holyspiritinteractive.net/dailysaint/may/0511.asp
Acts 14:5-18
Ps 115:1-4, 15-16
Jn 14:21-26
Jesus tells his disciples that he will send the Advocate, the Holy Spirit to be with them after he has gone to the Father and he will teach them and remind them of all that Christ told them. We too have been given that Holy Spirit through our Baptism and Confirmation. Let us allow the Spirit to direct us in all that we do so that we may follow in the footsteps of Christ and allow him to work through us this day. Have a great day and God Bless.
Come Holy Spirit, fill the hearts of the faithful and enkindle in us the fire of your love.
Saint of the Day - St. Ignatius of Laconi
Ignatius was the son of a poor farmer in Laconi, Italy. He was born on December 17, 1701. When he was about seventeen, he became very ill. He promised to be a Franciscan if he would get better. But when the illness left him, his father convinced him to wait. A couple of years later, Ignatius was almost killed when he lost control of his horse. Suddenly, however, the horse stopped and trotted on quietly. Ignatius was convinced, then, that God had saved his life. He made up his mind to follow his religious vocation at once. Brother Ignatius never had any important position in the Franciscan order. For fifteen years he worked in the weaving shed. Then, for forty years, he was part of the team who went out from house to house. They requested food and donations to support the friars. Ignatius visited families and received their gift. But the people soon realized that they received a gift in return. Brother Ignatius consoled the sick and cheered up the lonely. He made peace between enemies, converted people hardened by sin and advised those in trouble. They began to wait for his visits. There were some difficult days, too. Once in a while, a door was slammed in his face, and often the weather was bad. Always, there were miles and miles to walk. But Ignatius was dedicated. Yet people noticed he used to skip one house. The owner was a rich moneylender. He made the poor pay back much more than they could afford. This man felt humiliated because Ignatius never visited his home to ask for donations. He complained to Brother Ignatius' superior. The superior knew nothing about the moneylender so he sent Ignatius to his home. Brother Ignatius never said a word, but did as he was told. He returned with a large sack of food. It was then that God worked a miracle. When the sack was emptied, blood dripped out. "This is the blood of the poor," Ignatius explained softly. "That is why I never ask for anything at that house." The friars began to pray that the moneylender would repent. Brother Ignatius died at the age of eighty, on May 11, 1781. He was proclaimed a saint by Pope Pius XII in 1951.
Reflection: This saint showed us that one of the best gifts we can give anyone is good example. What message to others does my example give?
Saint information comes from: http://www.holyspiritinteractive.net/dailysaint/may/0511.asp
Friday, May 8, 2009
The way, the truth, and the life.
Today's Readings:
Acts 13:26-33
Ps 2:6-11
Jn 14:1-6
We have all been created by God and recreated through Baptism, through which we have becomes sons and daughters of the Father. We were created to love and serve our Father and we do that through loving and serving those around us. Christ states that he has prepared a place for each of us in Heaven but we must first follow him in this life if we wish to live with him in Heaven. Today let us fully give ourselves to Jesus who is the way, the truth, and the life. Have a great day and God Bless.
Lord God, you created us out of love and even more wondrously recreated us when we were dead in sin; help us to live this day following your Son who gave himself up for us. We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen.
Saint of the Day - Blessed Catherine of St. Augustine
Catherine was born on May 3, 1632, in a little village in France. She was baptized the same day. Catherine's family were devout Catholics. Her grandparents set the example especially because of their genuine care for the poor. Catherine watched wide-eyed as her grandmother invited a handicapped beggar into her home. She offered him a bath, clean clothes and a delicious meal. As Catherine and her grandparents sat around the fire that night, they prayed the Our Father out loud. They thanked God for his blessings. Because there was no hospital in their small French town, the sick were nursed back to health in the home of Catherine's grandparents. Catherine began to realize that sickness and suffering take patience. She was just a little girl but she prayed to ask Jesus to make people suffer less. When she was still quite young, she joined a new order of Sisters of St. Augustine. They took care of the sick in hospitals. She received the religious habit on October 24, 1646. That was the same day her older sister pronounced her vows. In 1648, Catherine listened to the missionary priests begging sisters to come to New France or Canada. It was missionary territory. Catherine's sister was chosen to be one of the first of their order to go as a missionary to Canada. Sister Catherine was just sixteen, but she begged to be chosen too. She pronounced her vows on May 4, 1648. Then she sailed for Canada the next day. It was the day before her sixteenth birthday. Life was hard in Quebec, Canada. Sister Catherine loved the people. The Indians were so grateful for her cheerful ways. She cooked and cared for the sick in the order's poor hospital building. But Sister Catherine learned about fear, too. The Iroquois Indians were killing people and burning villages. She prayed to St. John Brebeuf, one of the Jesuit priests who had just been killed by the Iroquois in 1649. She asked him to help her be true to her calling. She heard him speaking in her heart, telling her to remain. Food became scarce and the winters were terribly cold. Some of the sisters could not take the harsh life and constant fear of death. Sadly they returned to France. Sister Catherine was afraid, too. Sometimes she could hardly pray. And while she smiled at all the dear people she cared for in the sick wards, she grew sad. It was then, when things were darkest for her, that she made a vow never to leave Canada. She promised to remain, performing her works of charity until death. When she made that vow she was just twenty-two years old. Despite the hard pioneer life of the French colony, more people came. The Church grew. God blessed the new land with more missionaries. In 1665, Sister Catherine became the novice mistress of her community. She kept up her life of prayer and hospital ministry until her death. Sister Marie Catherine of St. Augustine died on May 8, 1668. She was thirty-six years old. She was declared "blessed" by Pope John Paul II in 1989.
Reflection: Jesus never promised us that our lives would be easy and without pain. But he did promise to be with us always. We pray that we may learn to trust him completely.
Saint information comes from: http://www.holyspiritinteractive.net/dailysaint/may/0508.asp
Acts 13:26-33
Ps 2:6-11
Jn 14:1-6
We have all been created by God and recreated through Baptism, through which we have becomes sons and daughters of the Father. We were created to love and serve our Father and we do that through loving and serving those around us. Christ states that he has prepared a place for each of us in Heaven but we must first follow him in this life if we wish to live with him in Heaven. Today let us fully give ourselves to Jesus who is the way, the truth, and the life. Have a great day and God Bless.
Lord God, you created us out of love and even more wondrously recreated us when we were dead in sin; help us to live this day following your Son who gave himself up for us. We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen.
Saint of the Day - Blessed Catherine of St. Augustine
Catherine was born on May 3, 1632, in a little village in France. She was baptized the same day. Catherine's family were devout Catholics. Her grandparents set the example especially because of their genuine care for the poor. Catherine watched wide-eyed as her grandmother invited a handicapped beggar into her home. She offered him a bath, clean clothes and a delicious meal. As Catherine and her grandparents sat around the fire that night, they prayed the Our Father out loud. They thanked God for his blessings. Because there was no hospital in their small French town, the sick were nursed back to health in the home of Catherine's grandparents. Catherine began to realize that sickness and suffering take patience. She was just a little girl but she prayed to ask Jesus to make people suffer less. When she was still quite young, she joined a new order of Sisters of St. Augustine. They took care of the sick in hospitals. She received the religious habit on October 24, 1646. That was the same day her older sister pronounced her vows. In 1648, Catherine listened to the missionary priests begging sisters to come to New France or Canada. It was missionary territory. Catherine's sister was chosen to be one of the first of their order to go as a missionary to Canada. Sister Catherine was just sixteen, but she begged to be chosen too. She pronounced her vows on May 4, 1648. Then she sailed for Canada the next day. It was the day before her sixteenth birthday. Life was hard in Quebec, Canada. Sister Catherine loved the people. The Indians were so grateful for her cheerful ways. She cooked and cared for the sick in the order's poor hospital building. But Sister Catherine learned about fear, too. The Iroquois Indians were killing people and burning villages. She prayed to St. John Brebeuf, one of the Jesuit priests who had just been killed by the Iroquois in 1649. She asked him to help her be true to her calling. She heard him speaking in her heart, telling her to remain. Food became scarce and the winters were terribly cold. Some of the sisters could not take the harsh life and constant fear of death. Sadly they returned to France. Sister Catherine was afraid, too. Sometimes she could hardly pray. And while she smiled at all the dear people she cared for in the sick wards, she grew sad. It was then, when things were darkest for her, that she made a vow never to leave Canada. She promised to remain, performing her works of charity until death. When she made that vow she was just twenty-two years old. Despite the hard pioneer life of the French colony, more people came. The Church grew. God blessed the new land with more missionaries. In 1665, Sister Catherine became the novice mistress of her community. She kept up her life of prayer and hospital ministry until her death. Sister Marie Catherine of St. Augustine died on May 8, 1668. She was thirty-six years old. She was declared "blessed" by Pope John Paul II in 1989.
Reflection: Jesus never promised us that our lives would be easy and without pain. But he did promise to be with us always. We pray that we may learn to trust him completely.
Saint information comes from: http://www.holyspiritinteractive.net/dailysaint/may/0508.asp
Wednesday, May 6, 2009
Christ comes to save
Today's Readings:
Acts 12:24-13:5
Ps 67:2-3, 5-6, 8
Jn 12:44-50
Christ states in our Gospel today that he did not come to condemn the world, but to save it. It is through him that we have life and it is in turning away from him that we turn away from that life that is offered to us. If Jesus did not condemn, then who are we to? Each of us will be judged on the last day but until then we are called to work together to help each other in building up the Kingdom of God. It is through this that we experience Christ in each other and also achieve our salvation, today let us work together to bring about that Kingdom where Christ reigns forever and ever. Have a great day and God Bless.
Source of all life and holiness, you came not to judge but rather to save us when we were lost and could not find our way back to you. Help us this day to remain in your light allowing your Word to guide us this day. We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen
Saint of the Day - Blessed Francois De Montmorency Laval
Blessed Francois was the first bishop of Quebec City, Canada. He was born in 1623 in a small town in France. Francois received a good, Catholic education. He studied with the Jesuits and then went to Paris to complete his preparation for the priesthood. Francois became a priest in May, 1647. He was consecrated a bishop on December 8, 1658, and arrived in New France in 1659. Bishop Laval had a missionary spirit. He accepted the pioneer life of his people. Even more, Francois had the courage to take on a huge task. He was to organize the Church in Canada which was still mission territory. Bishop Laval asked the Jesuit missionaries to minister to the native people. He created new parishes for the French-speaking Catholics. He started the seminary of Quebec in 1663. This was of great importance because a good seminary would train future priests for God's people. Bishop Laval loved the people of his vast territory. He was a caring bishop and a prayerful man. His particular cross was the constant interference by civil authorities. He was particularly outspoken about the harm of alcohol trafficking. In 1688, he retired and was replaced by Bishop de Saint-Vallier. Bishop Laval devoted the last twenty years of his life to charitable and spiritual works. He died in 1708. Pilgrims prayed at his tomb and miracles were reported. Pope John Paul II declared Bishop Laval "blessed" on June 22, 1980.
Reflection: Let us pray for all missionaries around the world that they find comfort and courage in the Lord Jesus.
Saint information comes from: http://www.holyspiritinteractive.net/dailysaint/may/0506.asp
Acts 12:24-13:5
Ps 67:2-3, 5-6, 8
Jn 12:44-50
Christ states in our Gospel today that he did not come to condemn the world, but to save it. It is through him that we have life and it is in turning away from him that we turn away from that life that is offered to us. If Jesus did not condemn, then who are we to? Each of us will be judged on the last day but until then we are called to work together to help each other in building up the Kingdom of God. It is through this that we experience Christ in each other and also achieve our salvation, today let us work together to bring about that Kingdom where Christ reigns forever and ever. Have a great day and God Bless.
Source of all life and holiness, you came not to judge but rather to save us when we were lost and could not find our way back to you. Help us this day to remain in your light allowing your Word to guide us this day. We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen
Saint of the Day - Blessed Francois De Montmorency Laval
Blessed Francois was the first bishop of Quebec City, Canada. He was born in 1623 in a small town in France. Francois received a good, Catholic education. He studied with the Jesuits and then went to Paris to complete his preparation for the priesthood. Francois became a priest in May, 1647. He was consecrated a bishop on December 8, 1658, and arrived in New France in 1659. Bishop Laval had a missionary spirit. He accepted the pioneer life of his people. Even more, Francois had the courage to take on a huge task. He was to organize the Church in Canada which was still mission territory. Bishop Laval asked the Jesuit missionaries to minister to the native people. He created new parishes for the French-speaking Catholics. He started the seminary of Quebec in 1663. This was of great importance because a good seminary would train future priests for God's people. Bishop Laval loved the people of his vast territory. He was a caring bishop and a prayerful man. His particular cross was the constant interference by civil authorities. He was particularly outspoken about the harm of alcohol trafficking. In 1688, he retired and was replaced by Bishop de Saint-Vallier. Bishop Laval devoted the last twenty years of his life to charitable and spiritual works. He died in 1708. Pilgrims prayed at his tomb and miracles were reported. Pope John Paul II declared Bishop Laval "blessed" on June 22, 1980.
Reflection: Let us pray for all missionaries around the world that they find comfort and courage in the Lord Jesus.
Saint information comes from: http://www.holyspiritinteractive.net/dailysaint/may/0506.asp
Tuesday, May 5, 2009
Hands of God
Today's Readings:
Acts 11:19-26
Ps 87:1-7
Jn 10:22-30
Jesus speaks about his followers and says "No one can take them out of my hand. My Father, who has give them to me, is greater than all, and no one can take them out of the Father's hand." We have been given free will, and in that we are the only ones who can remove ourselves from the presence of God or choose to remain in his presence. Christ is always calling us to himself, but we must freely choose to follow him. We do this each day by our decisions, our words, and our actions. Today let choose to remain in the hands of our Father, knowing full well he will always protect us and never allow evil to overtake us. Have a great day and God Bless.
Into your hands Father, I commend my spirit (Ps 31:5).
Saint of the Day - St. Judith of Prussia
St. Judith lived in the thirteenth century. She was born in Thuringia. This was in what is now central Germany. She wanted to model her life on the example of St. Elizabeth of Hungary. This saint's feast is celebrated on November 17. St. Elizabeth of Hungary had lived from 1207 until 1231. She had been proclaimed a saint in 1235. In St. Judith's time, many Christian women were influenced by her inspiring example. Judith of Prussia was married at fifteen to a wealthy young nobleman. Judith tried to be a good Christian wife. She was especially generous with the poor. Her husband was a good man, but he was satisfied with his wealthy lifestyle. He expected his wife to dress and live like a rich woman. He felt that their well-dressed look would win them respect. But Judith gently persuaded him to live and dress more simply. By doing this, they would have more to give to people less fortunate than themselves. Judith's husband died suddenly while on a pilgrimage to the Holy Land. The young widow raised her children alone. When the children grew up, Judith listened to a longing that had been in her heart during the busy, happy days of her life. She gave away everything and lived as a hermit. She moved to Prussia where people would not know that she was from a wealthy family. There she spent her time praying and taking care of weary travelers who passed by her little hut. She prayed especially for the conversion of nonbelievers. She prayed also for the newly baptized Christians to be true to their faith. "Three things can lead us close to God," she once said. "They are painful physical suffering, being in exile in a foreign land, and being poor by choice because of love for God." St. Judith died of fever in 1260.
Reflection: Let us pray for the grace to keep our sights firmly on God.
Saint information comes from: http://www.holyspiritinteractive.net/dailysaint/may/0505.asp
Acts 11:19-26
Ps 87:1-7
Jn 10:22-30
Jesus speaks about his followers and says "No one can take them out of my hand. My Father, who has give them to me, is greater than all, and no one can take them out of the Father's hand." We have been given free will, and in that we are the only ones who can remove ourselves from the presence of God or choose to remain in his presence. Christ is always calling us to himself, but we must freely choose to follow him. We do this each day by our decisions, our words, and our actions. Today let choose to remain in the hands of our Father, knowing full well he will always protect us and never allow evil to overtake us. Have a great day and God Bless.
Into your hands Father, I commend my spirit (Ps 31:5).
Saint of the Day - St. Judith of Prussia
St. Judith lived in the thirteenth century. She was born in Thuringia. This was in what is now central Germany. She wanted to model her life on the example of St. Elizabeth of Hungary. This saint's feast is celebrated on November 17. St. Elizabeth of Hungary had lived from 1207 until 1231. She had been proclaimed a saint in 1235. In St. Judith's time, many Christian women were influenced by her inspiring example. Judith of Prussia was married at fifteen to a wealthy young nobleman. Judith tried to be a good Christian wife. She was especially generous with the poor. Her husband was a good man, but he was satisfied with his wealthy lifestyle. He expected his wife to dress and live like a rich woman. He felt that their well-dressed look would win them respect. But Judith gently persuaded him to live and dress more simply. By doing this, they would have more to give to people less fortunate than themselves. Judith's husband died suddenly while on a pilgrimage to the Holy Land. The young widow raised her children alone. When the children grew up, Judith listened to a longing that had been in her heart during the busy, happy days of her life. She gave away everything and lived as a hermit. She moved to Prussia where people would not know that she was from a wealthy family. There she spent her time praying and taking care of weary travelers who passed by her little hut. She prayed especially for the conversion of nonbelievers. She prayed also for the newly baptized Christians to be true to their faith. "Three things can lead us close to God," she once said. "They are painful physical suffering, being in exile in a foreign land, and being poor by choice because of love for God." St. Judith died of fever in 1260.
Reflection: Let us pray for the grace to keep our sights firmly on God.
Saint information comes from: http://www.holyspiritinteractive.net/dailysaint/may/0505.asp
Monday, May 4, 2009
The Good Shepherd
Today's Readings:
Acts 11:1-18
Ps 42:2-3, 43:3-4
Jn 10:1-10
Yesterday we heard in the Gospel Christ saying that he was the Good Shepherd, and today we hear him say he is the gate for the sheep. He is both the way through which we achieve salvation and the one who leads us there, but we must first allow ourselves to follow Christ; without God we will always go astray, but with Christ we are led to new and everlasting life. Today let us allow Christ to take control of our lives and lead us to that promise of life, knowing he would never lead us astray. Have a great day and God Bless.
Lord, you are the way, the truth, and the life; lead us to everlasting life so that we may remain with you always. We ask this through your holy name, Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen
Saint of the Day - Blessed Marie-Leonie Paradis
Elodie Paradis was born in the village of L'Acadie in Quebec, Canada. It was May 12, 1840. Her parents were poor but devout Catholics. They loved their little girl. When Elodie was nine, her parents decided to send her to a boarding school. They wanted her to have an excellent education. The Sisters of Notre Dame warmly received the new student. But Elodie and her family missed each other very much. Mr. Paradis worked hard running a mill. But times were bad, and the mill did not produce enough to support his wife and children. He heard wonderful reports of the gold rush in California. He was so desperate that he decided to go. In California, Mr. Paradis did not find the wealth he hoped for. When he returned to L'Acadie, he was shocked to find that his Elodie had joined the convent. She had entered the Holy Cross congregation on February 21, 1854. Mr. Paradis went to the convent. He begged his daughter to return home, but she chose to remain. Finally, her father accepted it. She pronounced her vows in 1857. Blessed Marie-Leonie taught school in different cities. She prayed and lived her life joyfully. As time went on, Sister Marie-Leonie was led by Jesus to begin a new religious order in the Church. The Little Sisters of the Holy Family were begun in 1880. These loving sisters are devoted to the priesthood. They serve priests in the household care so important to their ministry. The Little Sisters of the Holy Family now have sixty-seven convents in Canada, the United States, Rome and Honduras. Mother Marie Leonie worked for her sisters until the last few hours of her life. She was always frail and often ill. But she never stopped caring for God's people. She put the last corrections on the pages of the book of rules she had written. She had it sent to the print shop. That book would give her sisters the guidance they would need for their life. It was Friday, May 3, 1912. Mother Marie-Leonie said she felt very tired. She went to rest and died a few hours later. She was seventy-one years old.
Reflection: Sometimes we are afraid of our future. May the words of Jesus comfort and give us hope: "Do not be afraid, I am with you until the end of time."
Saint information comes from: http://www.holyspiritinteractive.net/dailysaint/may/0504.asp
Acts 11:1-18
Ps 42:2-3, 43:3-4
Jn 10:1-10
Yesterday we heard in the Gospel Christ saying that he was the Good Shepherd, and today we hear him say he is the gate for the sheep. He is both the way through which we achieve salvation and the one who leads us there, but we must first allow ourselves to follow Christ; without God we will always go astray, but with Christ we are led to new and everlasting life. Today let us allow Christ to take control of our lives and lead us to that promise of life, knowing he would never lead us astray. Have a great day and God Bless.
Lord, you are the way, the truth, and the life; lead us to everlasting life so that we may remain with you always. We ask this through your holy name, Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen
Saint of the Day - Blessed Marie-Leonie Paradis
Elodie Paradis was born in the village of L'Acadie in Quebec, Canada. It was May 12, 1840. Her parents were poor but devout Catholics. They loved their little girl. When Elodie was nine, her parents decided to send her to a boarding school. They wanted her to have an excellent education. The Sisters of Notre Dame warmly received the new student. But Elodie and her family missed each other very much. Mr. Paradis worked hard running a mill. But times were bad, and the mill did not produce enough to support his wife and children. He heard wonderful reports of the gold rush in California. He was so desperate that he decided to go. In California, Mr. Paradis did not find the wealth he hoped for. When he returned to L'Acadie, he was shocked to find that his Elodie had joined the convent. She had entered the Holy Cross congregation on February 21, 1854. Mr. Paradis went to the convent. He begged his daughter to return home, but she chose to remain. Finally, her father accepted it. She pronounced her vows in 1857. Blessed Marie-Leonie taught school in different cities. She prayed and lived her life joyfully. As time went on, Sister Marie-Leonie was led by Jesus to begin a new religious order in the Church. The Little Sisters of the Holy Family were begun in 1880. These loving sisters are devoted to the priesthood. They serve priests in the household care so important to their ministry. The Little Sisters of the Holy Family now have sixty-seven convents in Canada, the United States, Rome and Honduras. Mother Marie Leonie worked for her sisters until the last few hours of her life. She was always frail and often ill. But she never stopped caring for God's people. She put the last corrections on the pages of the book of rules she had written. She had it sent to the print shop. That book would give her sisters the guidance they would need for their life. It was Friday, May 3, 1912. Mother Marie-Leonie said she felt very tired. She went to rest and died a few hours later. She was seventy-one years old.
Reflection: Sometimes we are afraid of our future. May the words of Jesus comfort and give us hope: "Do not be afraid, I am with you until the end of time."
Saint information comes from: http://www.holyspiritinteractive.net/dailysaint/may/0504.asp
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