Today's Readings:
Eph 2:19-22
Ps 19:2-5
Lk 6:12-16
While each of us has our own vocation in life and our own specific job, we all still work together as the one body of Christ. Each of us adds our own gifts to the community and without those gifts, our community would not be the same. St. Paul in our first readings emphasizes this and in our Gospel we hear Jesus calling out his apostles to himself. We too have been called out from our world and into service of our God; today let us give thanks to Christ for his call in our lives and ask that he help us to serve him worthily. Have a great day and God Bless.
Prayer: Lord, through you we have been called into service of our God; help us to serve you this day by serving one another. We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen.
Saint of the Day - St. Simon & Jude
These two apostles of Jesus are honored on the same day. St. Simon was called "the zealous one" because he had so much devotion to the Jewish law. Once he had been called by the Lord to be an apostle, he gave his heart and his energy to preaching the Gospel. With the other apostles, he received the Holy Spirit on the first Pentecost. Then it is believed that he went to Egypt to preach the faith. Afterward he went to Persia with the apostle St. Jude, and the two of them were martyred there. St. Jude is sometimes called Thaddeus, which means "the brave one." It was he who asked the Lord a famous question at the Last Supper. Jesus had said: "He who loves me will be loved by my Father, and I will love him and manifest myself to him." And St. Jude wanted to know: "Lord, how is it that you are about to manifest yourself to us and not to the world?" Jesus gave him the answer: "If anyone love me, he will keep my word, and my Father will love him, and we will come to him and make our abode with him." St. Jude is sometimes called the saint of "desperate or impossible cases." People pray to him when things seem hopeless. Often God answers their prayers through the intercession of this beloved apostle.
Reflection: Simon was known as the "Zealous," and Jude was called the "Brave." Let us pray for their missionary courage and love in our own lives.
Saint information comes from: http://www.holyspiritinteractive.net/dailysaint/october/1028.asp
Wednesday, October 28, 2009
Tuesday, October 27, 2009
Faith
Today's Readings:
Rom 8:18-25
Ps 126:1-6
Lk 13:18-21
What is faith? This question has been debated for centuries and most likely will continue to be a topic of discussion for the future; but to us we know that it is a gift from God that hopefully continues to grow within our hearts each day. We had faith last night that we would rise this morning, we had faith that when we got in the car it would start; we use faith daily, but most importantly we have faith in God who will never let us done, even in those times when the car doesn't start. Truly 'the Lord has done marvels for us' let us give thanks to our God and allow ourselves to grow in our faith and love for him. Have a great day and God Bless.
Prayer: Lord you have done so much for us and continue to give us gifts each day, help us to open our eyes to you this day so that we may continue to live out our faith in you. We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen.
Saint of the Day - Blessed Contardo Ferrini
Contardo was born in 1859. His father was a teacher of mathematics and physics. Mr. Ferrini began very early to teach his little son his own love for study. As a young man, Contardo could speak many languages besides Italian. He did very well in every school and college he went to. His great love for study and for his Catholic faith made his friends nickname him their own "St. Aloysius." (St. Aloysius Gonzaga was a young Jesuit saint known for the goodness and generosity of his life.) It was Contardo who first started clubs for college students to help them become good Christians. When he was twenty-one, he was offered a chance to study at the University of Berlin in Germany. It was hard for him to leave his home in Italy, but he was happy to meet devout Catholics at the university. He wrote down in a little book what he felt the first time he received the sacrament of Reconciliation in a foreign land. It thrilled him to realize that the Catholic Church is really the same everywhere a person goes. By the next year, Contardo was trying to decide whether he should become a priest or a monk, or whether he should marry. He kept asking himself just what he should do. As it turned out, he took a vow to give himself only to God. He lived that vow as a lay person; he never became a priest or brother. He went on teaching and writing. He tried always to become a more perfect Christian. While enjoying his favorite sport of mountain-climbing, he would think of God, the Creator of all the beauty he saw. People noticed that there was something different about Professor Ferrini. Once when he had passed by with his usual warm smile, someone exclaimed, "That man is a saint!" Contardo Ferrini died of typhoid fever on October 17, 1902. He was only forty-three years old. He was declared "blessed" by Pope Pius XII in 1947.
Reflection: Gifted with great intelligence, Bl. Contardo put his learning at the service of others.
Saint information comes from: http://www.holyspiritinteractive.net/dailysaint/october/1027.asp
Rom 8:18-25
Ps 126:1-6
Lk 13:18-21
What is faith? This question has been debated for centuries and most likely will continue to be a topic of discussion for the future; but to us we know that it is a gift from God that hopefully continues to grow within our hearts each day. We had faith last night that we would rise this morning, we had faith that when we got in the car it would start; we use faith daily, but most importantly we have faith in God who will never let us done, even in those times when the car doesn't start. Truly 'the Lord has done marvels for us' let us give thanks to our God and allow ourselves to grow in our faith and love for him. Have a great day and God Bless.
Prayer: Lord you have done so much for us and continue to give us gifts each day, help us to open our eyes to you this day so that we may continue to live out our faith in you. We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen.
Saint of the Day - Blessed Contardo Ferrini
Contardo was born in 1859. His father was a teacher of mathematics and physics. Mr. Ferrini began very early to teach his little son his own love for study. As a young man, Contardo could speak many languages besides Italian. He did very well in every school and college he went to. His great love for study and for his Catholic faith made his friends nickname him their own "St. Aloysius." (St. Aloysius Gonzaga was a young Jesuit saint known for the goodness and generosity of his life.) It was Contardo who first started clubs for college students to help them become good Christians. When he was twenty-one, he was offered a chance to study at the University of Berlin in Germany. It was hard for him to leave his home in Italy, but he was happy to meet devout Catholics at the university. He wrote down in a little book what he felt the first time he received the sacrament of Reconciliation in a foreign land. It thrilled him to realize that the Catholic Church is really the same everywhere a person goes. By the next year, Contardo was trying to decide whether he should become a priest or a monk, or whether he should marry. He kept asking himself just what he should do. As it turned out, he took a vow to give himself only to God. He lived that vow as a lay person; he never became a priest or brother. He went on teaching and writing. He tried always to become a more perfect Christian. While enjoying his favorite sport of mountain-climbing, he would think of God, the Creator of all the beauty he saw. People noticed that there was something different about Professor Ferrini. Once when he had passed by with his usual warm smile, someone exclaimed, "That man is a saint!" Contardo Ferrini died of typhoid fever on October 17, 1902. He was only forty-three years old. He was declared "blessed" by Pope Pius XII in 1947.
Reflection: Gifted with great intelligence, Bl. Contardo put his learning at the service of others.
Saint information comes from: http://www.holyspiritinteractive.net/dailysaint/october/1027.asp
Monday, October 26, 2009
Heirs with Christ
Today's Readings:
Rom 8:12-17
Ps 68
Lk 13:10-17
St. Paul reminds us that through our Baptism we have been given the spirit of adoption, the spirit that allows us to call out to God our Father who has made us his sons and daughters. St. Paul also tells us that just as Christ suffered, we may also have to suffer; but through that suffering we will also be glorified with Christ. Today let us remember our adoption into the family of God and allow his Spirit to fill our hearts so that as we go about our work, we may do everything for him who gave himself up for us on the cross. Have a great day and God Bless.
Prayer: Lord Jesus through your victory of the cross we have become heirs along side you, sons and daughters of the Father, and sharers of the Holy Spirit; make us worthy of such a high calling. We ask this through your holy name. Amen.
Saint of the Day - St. Evaristus
St. Evaristus lived in the second century. He was from a Jewish family in Bethlehem. They were living in Greece at the time of their son's birth. Evaristus was brought up in the Jewish religion. His father was so pleased with the boy's virtue and knowledge that he sent him to the best teachers. Evaristus became a Christian when he grew older. So great was his love for his new faith that he decided to become a priest. At Rome, where he performed his ministry, everyone grew to admire and love him. So it was that when the pope was martyred, Evaristus was chosen to take his place. He felt he was completely unworthy of being pope, but God knew better. These were times of persecution for the Church. Such bad lies were spread about the Catholic faith that the Romans thought nothing of putting Christians to death. Every man who became pope was almost certain of being arrested. For about eight years, Pope St. Evaristus ruled the Church. His zeal was so great that the number of believers grew larger every day. At last, however, he was captured. The jailers were amazed to see the joy on the holy old man's face as he was led to prison. St. Evaristus thought himself very privileged to have been found worthy to suffer and die for Jesus. No better gift could have been given him than his martyrdom. Pope St. Evaristus died in 107.
Reflection: Often our lives take unexpected turns, but if we find our strength in God, he will give us his peace.
Saint information comes from: http://www.holyspiritinteractive.net/dailysaint/october/1026.asp
Rom 8:12-17
Ps 68
Lk 13:10-17
St. Paul reminds us that through our Baptism we have been given the spirit of adoption, the spirit that allows us to call out to God our Father who has made us his sons and daughters. St. Paul also tells us that just as Christ suffered, we may also have to suffer; but through that suffering we will also be glorified with Christ. Today let us remember our adoption into the family of God and allow his Spirit to fill our hearts so that as we go about our work, we may do everything for him who gave himself up for us on the cross. Have a great day and God Bless.
Prayer: Lord Jesus through your victory of the cross we have become heirs along side you, sons and daughters of the Father, and sharers of the Holy Spirit; make us worthy of such a high calling. We ask this through your holy name. Amen.
Saint of the Day - St. Evaristus
St. Evaristus lived in the second century. He was from a Jewish family in Bethlehem. They were living in Greece at the time of their son's birth. Evaristus was brought up in the Jewish religion. His father was so pleased with the boy's virtue and knowledge that he sent him to the best teachers. Evaristus became a Christian when he grew older. So great was his love for his new faith that he decided to become a priest. At Rome, where he performed his ministry, everyone grew to admire and love him. So it was that when the pope was martyred, Evaristus was chosen to take his place. He felt he was completely unworthy of being pope, but God knew better. These were times of persecution for the Church. Such bad lies were spread about the Catholic faith that the Romans thought nothing of putting Christians to death. Every man who became pope was almost certain of being arrested. For about eight years, Pope St. Evaristus ruled the Church. His zeal was so great that the number of believers grew larger every day. At last, however, he was captured. The jailers were amazed to see the joy on the holy old man's face as he was led to prison. St. Evaristus thought himself very privileged to have been found worthy to suffer and die for Jesus. No better gift could have been given him than his martyrdom. Pope St. Evaristus died in 107.
Reflection: Often our lives take unexpected turns, but if we find our strength in God, he will give us his peace.
Saint information comes from: http://www.holyspiritinteractive.net/dailysaint/october/1026.asp
Friday, October 23, 2009
Victory over sin
Today's Readings:
Rom 7:18-25
Ps 119
Lk 12:54-59
St. Paul speaks to us today about the struggle with sin. We wish to do what is right, though at times we find ourselves doing things that we know we should not; it is something we all have to deal with. Alone this fight would be impossible, but we are not alone, we have Christ who we know has already defeated sin and death. Today let us rejoice in that victory and ask our Lord to help us to continue our daily struggle against sin so that we may always walk in his light with the help of his grace. Have a great day and God Bless.
Prayer: Through the victory of your cross Lord Jesus, we have been set free from sin and death; help us to live out the new life you have won for us. We ask this in your holy name. Amen.
Saint of the Day - St. John Capistrano
St. John Capistrano was born in Italy in 1386. He was a lawyer and governor of the city of Perugia. When enemies of the city threw John into prison, he started to think about the real meaning of life. John's political enemies were not in a hurry to release him. He had plenty of time to realize that what mattered most was the salvation of his soul. So when he was miraculously set free, John entered a Franciscan monastery. He was thirty at the time. For John, life as a poor friar was a big change. He had to sacrifice his independence for the love of Jesus. And he tried with all his heart to do this. After he became a priest, John was sent out to preach. He and his former novice master, St. Bernardine of Siena, spread devotion to the Holy Name of Jesus everywhere. John preached throughout Europe for forty years. All who heard him were moved to love and serve the Lord better. An outstanding moment in the life of this saint came at the battle of Belgrade. The Turks had made up their minds to conquer Europe and to wipe out the Church of Jesus. The pope sent St. John Capistrano to all the Christian kings of Europe to beg them to unite to fight the mighty Turkish army. The kings obeyed this poor, barefoot friar. He stirred up their love of God and their courage with his fiery words. But even though a big army of Christians came to fight Mohammed II and his Turks, it looked as though they would lose. The enemy army was much bigger. Then it was that the saint himself, though he was seventy years old, ran to the front lines and encouraged the men to keep fighting. Holding his crucifix up high, this thin, small old man kept crying, "Victory, Jesus, victory!" And the Christian soldiers felt full of more courage than ever. They fought until the enemy ran away in fear. St. John Capistrano died a short time later, on October 23, 1456. He was proclaimed a saint in 1724.
Reflection: "[Priests] have been placed here to care for others. Their own lives should be an example to others, showing how they must live in the house of the Lord."
Saint information comes from: http://www.holyspiritinteractive.net/dailysaint/october/1023.asp
Rom 7:18-25
Ps 119
Lk 12:54-59
St. Paul speaks to us today about the struggle with sin. We wish to do what is right, though at times we find ourselves doing things that we know we should not; it is something we all have to deal with. Alone this fight would be impossible, but we are not alone, we have Christ who we know has already defeated sin and death. Today let us rejoice in that victory and ask our Lord to help us to continue our daily struggle against sin so that we may always walk in his light with the help of his grace. Have a great day and God Bless.
Prayer: Through the victory of your cross Lord Jesus, we have been set free from sin and death; help us to live out the new life you have won for us. We ask this in your holy name. Amen.
Saint of the Day - St. John Capistrano
St. John Capistrano was born in Italy in 1386. He was a lawyer and governor of the city of Perugia. When enemies of the city threw John into prison, he started to think about the real meaning of life. John's political enemies were not in a hurry to release him. He had plenty of time to realize that what mattered most was the salvation of his soul. So when he was miraculously set free, John entered a Franciscan monastery. He was thirty at the time. For John, life as a poor friar was a big change. He had to sacrifice his independence for the love of Jesus. And he tried with all his heart to do this. After he became a priest, John was sent out to preach. He and his former novice master, St. Bernardine of Siena, spread devotion to the Holy Name of Jesus everywhere. John preached throughout Europe for forty years. All who heard him were moved to love and serve the Lord better. An outstanding moment in the life of this saint came at the battle of Belgrade. The Turks had made up their minds to conquer Europe and to wipe out the Church of Jesus. The pope sent St. John Capistrano to all the Christian kings of Europe to beg them to unite to fight the mighty Turkish army. The kings obeyed this poor, barefoot friar. He stirred up their love of God and their courage with his fiery words. But even though a big army of Christians came to fight Mohammed II and his Turks, it looked as though they would lose. The enemy army was much bigger. Then it was that the saint himself, though he was seventy years old, ran to the front lines and encouraged the men to keep fighting. Holding his crucifix up high, this thin, small old man kept crying, "Victory, Jesus, victory!" And the Christian soldiers felt full of more courage than ever. They fought until the enemy ran away in fear. St. John Capistrano died a short time later, on October 23, 1456. He was proclaimed a saint in 1724.
Reflection: "[Priests] have been placed here to care for others. Their own lives should be an example to others, showing how they must live in the house of the Lord."
Saint information comes from: http://www.holyspiritinteractive.net/dailysaint/october/1023.asp
Wednesday, October 21, 2009
Gift of Faith
Today's Readings:
Rom 6:12-18
Ps 124:1-8
Lk 12:39-48
Jesus states that "much will be required of the person entrusted with much, and still more will be demanded of the person entrusted with more.” Through the Sacrament of Baptism we have been given the grace of new life in Christ, truly we have been entrusted with much. The question is what have we done with this gift? The gift of faith has to be nurtured by prayer and shared with all those we meet. Today let us make it our goal to allow the great things that have been given to us by our God to bear fruit in our lives and the lives of those around us. Have a great day and God Bless.
Prayer: Help us to nurture the gift of faith you have give us Lord so that it may continue to grow and lead us to our everlasting home with you in Heaven. We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen.
Saint of the Day - St. Hilarion
Hilarion lived in the fourth century. He was an unbelieving teenager when he left his home in Palestine. He was on his way to Egypt to go to school. There he learned about the Christian faith, and soon he was baptized. Hilarion was only about fifteen at the time. His conversion started him out on a glorious journey leading him closer to God. Before long, he was off to visit the famous St. Anthony in the desert. (We celebrate his feast on January 17.) Hilarion wanted to be alone to serve Jesus, whom he had just come to love. Hilarion stayed two months with St. Anthony, but it was not quiet enough there for him. Many people came to St. Anthony for help. Hilarion could not find the peace he was looking for, so he left. After giving everything he had to the poor, he went into the wilderness to live as a hermit. Hilarion had to battle many temptations. At times it seemed to him as if none of his prayers were heard at all. Yet he did not let these temptations stop him from praying even harder. After twenty years in the desert, the holy man worked his first miracle. Soon many people began coming to his hut to beg his help. Several men asked him to let them stay with him to learn from him how to pray and do penance. In his great love for God and people, the saint invited them to stay. But finally, when he was sixty-five, he began to travel. He went from one country to another in search of peace and quiet. However, the fame of his miracles of mercy always brought crowds of visitors. A few years before his death in 371, Hilarian at last felt that he was truly alone with God. He was eighty years old when he died.
Reflection: The value of solitude was well known to this saint. Is there a time in my day when I can be alone with God?
Saint information comes from: http://www.holyspiritinteractive.net/dailysaint/october/1021.asp
Rom 6:12-18
Ps 124:1-8
Lk 12:39-48
Jesus states that "much will be required of the person entrusted with much, and still more will be demanded of the person entrusted with more.” Through the Sacrament of Baptism we have been given the grace of new life in Christ, truly we have been entrusted with much. The question is what have we done with this gift? The gift of faith has to be nurtured by prayer and shared with all those we meet. Today let us make it our goal to allow the great things that have been given to us by our God to bear fruit in our lives and the lives of those around us. Have a great day and God Bless.
Prayer: Help us to nurture the gift of faith you have give us Lord so that it may continue to grow and lead us to our everlasting home with you in Heaven. We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen.
Saint of the Day - St. Hilarion
Hilarion lived in the fourth century. He was an unbelieving teenager when he left his home in Palestine. He was on his way to Egypt to go to school. There he learned about the Christian faith, and soon he was baptized. Hilarion was only about fifteen at the time. His conversion started him out on a glorious journey leading him closer to God. Before long, he was off to visit the famous St. Anthony in the desert. (We celebrate his feast on January 17.) Hilarion wanted to be alone to serve Jesus, whom he had just come to love. Hilarion stayed two months with St. Anthony, but it was not quiet enough there for him. Many people came to St. Anthony for help. Hilarion could not find the peace he was looking for, so he left. After giving everything he had to the poor, he went into the wilderness to live as a hermit. Hilarion had to battle many temptations. At times it seemed to him as if none of his prayers were heard at all. Yet he did not let these temptations stop him from praying even harder. After twenty years in the desert, the holy man worked his first miracle. Soon many people began coming to his hut to beg his help. Several men asked him to let them stay with him to learn from him how to pray and do penance. In his great love for God and people, the saint invited them to stay. But finally, when he was sixty-five, he began to travel. He went from one country to another in search of peace and quiet. However, the fame of his miracles of mercy always brought crowds of visitors. A few years before his death in 371, Hilarian at last felt that he was truly alone with God. He was eighty years old when he died.
Reflection: The value of solitude was well known to this saint. Is there a time in my day when I can be alone with God?
Saint information comes from: http://www.holyspiritinteractive.net/dailysaint/october/1021.asp
Tuesday, October 20, 2009
Christ will come again
Today's Readings:
Rom 5:12, 15, 17-21
Ps 40:7-10, 17
Lk 12:35-38
'Christ has died, Christ has risen, Christ will come again'; this is our faith and our hope. Christ died for our sins, he rose so that we might have new life, and he will come again so that we may share in the fullness of that divine life. Let us live in this hope allowing the victory Christ won for us fill us with the divine life the Lord has promised us, allowing our faith to lead us to our true home in heaven. Have a great day and God Bless.
Prayer: Lord, you died and rose for us, and we believe that you will come again in glory. Come Lord Jesus, and fill us with your blessings. Amen.
Saint of the Day - St. Paul of the Cross
Paul Danei of Ovada, Italy, was born into a family of merchants in 1694. He was a good Christian and practiced his faith. When he was nineteen, Paul decided to become a soldier. After a year he left the army. During the summer of 1720 Paul had some kind of a spiritual experience. He had three visions of starting a new religious order. He couldn't imagine what was happening, so he went to his bishop for guidance. The bishop investigated and believed that the visions were real. He told Paul to go ahead with his special call. He should do what he was being told in the visions to do. Paul spent forty days in prayer and penance. During that time he wrote a rule that he and the followers of his new congregation could base their style of life on. Paul was joined by his brother John and two other young men. Paul and John were ordained priests by Pope Benedict XIII in 1727. Ten years later, the first Passionist monastery was started. Pope Clement XIV approved the new order. He also approved the rule a short time later. Besides the three vows of poverty, chastity and obedience, Paul of the Cross added a fourth vow: devotion to the passion of Christ. By 1747, the Passionists had three monasteries. They were preaching parish retreats throughout Italy. When he died in 1775, Paul of the Cross was starting a congregation of Passionist nuns. He was proclaimed a saint by Pope Pius IX in 1867.
Reflection: St. Paul taught that in the Cross of Jesus we find real wisdom. When we find ourselves in difficulty or suffering, let us pray for this wisdom.
Saint information comes from: http://www.holyspiritinteractive.net/dailysaint/october/1020.asp
Rom 5:12, 15, 17-21
Ps 40:7-10, 17
Lk 12:35-38
'Christ has died, Christ has risen, Christ will come again'; this is our faith and our hope. Christ died for our sins, he rose so that we might have new life, and he will come again so that we may share in the fullness of that divine life. Let us live in this hope allowing the victory Christ won for us fill us with the divine life the Lord has promised us, allowing our faith to lead us to our true home in heaven. Have a great day and God Bless.
Prayer: Lord, you died and rose for us, and we believe that you will come again in glory. Come Lord Jesus, and fill us with your blessings. Amen.
Saint of the Day - St. Paul of the Cross
Paul Danei of Ovada, Italy, was born into a family of merchants in 1694. He was a good Christian and practiced his faith. When he was nineteen, Paul decided to become a soldier. After a year he left the army. During the summer of 1720 Paul had some kind of a spiritual experience. He had three visions of starting a new religious order. He couldn't imagine what was happening, so he went to his bishop for guidance. The bishop investigated and believed that the visions were real. He told Paul to go ahead with his special call. He should do what he was being told in the visions to do. Paul spent forty days in prayer and penance. During that time he wrote a rule that he and the followers of his new congregation could base their style of life on. Paul was joined by his brother John and two other young men. Paul and John were ordained priests by Pope Benedict XIII in 1727. Ten years later, the first Passionist monastery was started. Pope Clement XIV approved the new order. He also approved the rule a short time later. Besides the three vows of poverty, chastity and obedience, Paul of the Cross added a fourth vow: devotion to the passion of Christ. By 1747, the Passionists had three monasteries. They were preaching parish retreats throughout Italy. When he died in 1775, Paul of the Cross was starting a congregation of Passionist nuns. He was proclaimed a saint by Pope Pius IX in 1867.
Reflection: St. Paul taught that in the Cross of Jesus we find real wisdom. When we find ourselves in difficulty or suffering, let us pray for this wisdom.
Saint information comes from: http://www.holyspiritinteractive.net/dailysaint/october/1020.asp
Monday, October 19, 2009
Material Possessions
Today's Readings:
Rom 4:20-25
Lk 12:13-21
Today our Lord reminds us to beware of material possessions. It is not that these things are bad, in fact they can not be since they were created by God; it is how we use them that determines the morality of them. When we place them as idols before God or hoard them rather than sharing with those in need, then we fall into what Christ is warning us against in the Gospel. Possessions and wealth are fine in that we recognize its source, God; and that we use them in his service. Today let us thank Christ for all of our gifts and place them in loving service of one another and of our God. Have a great day and God Bless.
Prayer: Lord all good gifts come from you, help us to use them in service of you by serving our neighbor. We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen.
Saint of the Day - St. Isaac Jogues, St. John De Bredeuf, & Companions
Over three hundred years ago, six Jesuit priests and two holy laymen, all from France, died as martyrs here in North America. These eight men were martyred between 1642 and 1649. They were a group of the bravest and most daring missionaries in the New World. They risked everything they had to bring Christ to the native people. After much hard work, they converted many of the Huron tribe. But the Iroquois, bitter enemies of the Hurons, put them all to death. St. John de Brebeuf had tuberculosis. He was so sick in France that he could not even teach many classes. Yet he became a marvelous, valiant apostle. His courage amazed the fierce Iroquois as they tortured him to death. St. Isaac Jogues was tortured by the Mohawks, but was freed by the Dutch. He went back to France, but as soon as he could, he returned to North America. Father Jogues was killed with a tomahawk by the Bear Clan of the Mohawks. St. Anthony Daniel had just finished celebrating Mass for his Huron converts when the Iroquois attacked the village. The Christian Indians begged him to try to escape. But Father Daniel stayed. He wanted to baptize all those who were crying to him for Baptism before they would be killed. The Iroquois burned him to death in his little chapel. St. Gabriel Lallemont was tortured to death with St. John de Brebeuf. St. Charles Garnier and St. Noel Chabenel were both killed with tomahawks. St. Charles was first shot by an Iroquois musket during a surprise attack, but he still tried to crawl to help a dying man. He was killed by a hatchet blow. Father Chabenel had found life very hard, but had made a vow to stay in North America. He was killed by a Huron traitor. The two lay helpers, Rene Goupil and John Lalande, were both killed with tomahawks. So it was that these heroes of Christ gave their lives for the native people of North America. After their death, new missionaries were able to convert almost every tribe that the martyrs had known. These brave men, often called the North American martyrs, were proclaimed saints in 1931 by Pope Pius XI.
Reflection: The greatest desire of these saints was for others to know the love and friendship of Jesus. Isaac Jogues once spoke his willingness to teach the Gospel, saying, "I want whatever our Lord wants, even if it costs a thousand lives."
Saint information comes from: http://www.holyspiritinteractive.net/dailysaint/october/1019.asp
Rom 4:20-25
Lk 12:13-21
Today our Lord reminds us to beware of material possessions. It is not that these things are bad, in fact they can not be since they were created by God; it is how we use them that determines the morality of them. When we place them as idols before God or hoard them rather than sharing with those in need, then we fall into what Christ is warning us against in the Gospel. Possessions and wealth are fine in that we recognize its source, God; and that we use them in his service. Today let us thank Christ for all of our gifts and place them in loving service of one another and of our God. Have a great day and God Bless.
Prayer: Lord all good gifts come from you, help us to use them in service of you by serving our neighbor. We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen.
Saint of the Day - St. Isaac Jogues, St. John De Bredeuf, & Companions
Over three hundred years ago, six Jesuit priests and two holy laymen, all from France, died as martyrs here in North America. These eight men were martyred between 1642 and 1649. They were a group of the bravest and most daring missionaries in the New World. They risked everything they had to bring Christ to the native people. After much hard work, they converted many of the Huron tribe. But the Iroquois, bitter enemies of the Hurons, put them all to death. St. John de Brebeuf had tuberculosis. He was so sick in France that he could not even teach many classes. Yet he became a marvelous, valiant apostle. His courage amazed the fierce Iroquois as they tortured him to death. St. Isaac Jogues was tortured by the Mohawks, but was freed by the Dutch. He went back to France, but as soon as he could, he returned to North America. Father Jogues was killed with a tomahawk by the Bear Clan of the Mohawks. St. Anthony Daniel had just finished celebrating Mass for his Huron converts when the Iroquois attacked the village. The Christian Indians begged him to try to escape. But Father Daniel stayed. He wanted to baptize all those who were crying to him for Baptism before they would be killed. The Iroquois burned him to death in his little chapel. St. Gabriel Lallemont was tortured to death with St. John de Brebeuf. St. Charles Garnier and St. Noel Chabenel were both killed with tomahawks. St. Charles was first shot by an Iroquois musket during a surprise attack, but he still tried to crawl to help a dying man. He was killed by a hatchet blow. Father Chabenel had found life very hard, but had made a vow to stay in North America. He was killed by a Huron traitor. The two lay helpers, Rene Goupil and John Lalande, were both killed with tomahawks. So it was that these heroes of Christ gave their lives for the native people of North America. After their death, new missionaries were able to convert almost every tribe that the martyrs had known. These brave men, often called the North American martyrs, were proclaimed saints in 1931 by Pope Pius XI.
Reflection: The greatest desire of these saints was for others to know the love and friendship of Jesus. Isaac Jogues once spoke his willingness to teach the Gospel, saying, "I want whatever our Lord wants, even if it costs a thousand lives."
Saint information comes from: http://www.holyspiritinteractive.net/dailysaint/october/1019.asp
Friday, October 16, 2009
Love of God
Today's Readings:
Rom 4:1-8
Ps 32:1-2, 5, 11
Lk 12:1-7
Jesus reminds us that God is active in creation and knows us better than we know ourselves. The Lord sees our very soul and regardless of who we are or what we have done, we are loved by him. What a wonderful God we have...A God who is not only the source of love but is love as St. John tells us in his letters. Let us find some time today to take a few moments and thank the Lord for all he has done in our lives, and in doing so allow him to continue to purify our heart and soul. Have a great day and God Bless.
Prayer: Lord, let your purifying love fill our lives so that we may be filled with your Spirit and anything that is not of you is removed from our life. We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen
Saint of the Day - St. Margaret Mary
Margaret Mary lived in the seventeenth century. She is the famous French nun to whom Jesus showed his Sacred Heart. As a child, she was a happy little girl who loved the nuns at school. But when she was eleven, she became very sick. It was four years before she was well again. Her father had died, and an aunt had moved into their home. This aunt and her husband made Margaret Mary and her mother suffer very much. Almost every day, the teenager would hide in the garden to cry and pray. What hurt her most was seeing her mother get hurt. Yet Margaret Mary grew to love good times. A few years later, she was considering marriage. Her mother wanted her to marry and so did her relatives. They were worried about her, especially when she brought beggar children into the garden to try to teach them. Margaret Mary hesitated a while, neither marrying nor entering the convent. At last she decided on the convent. She joined the Visitation sisters and was a kind, humble sister. Often she made others impatient since she was slow and clumsy. But she was dear to Jesus. He began to appear to St. Margaret Mary to show her how much he loves us all. Jesus wanted her to spread devotion to his Sacred Heart. It was a very hard thing to do. Many people thought Margaret Mary had not really seen Jesus at all. Some were angry with her for trying to spread the new devotion. This brought her great suffering. Yet she did her best to carry out the Lord's wish. Jesus blessed her hard work and pain. Today, this wonderful devotion to the Sacred Heart is practiced all over the world. Our Lord made great promises to St. Margaret Mary for those who are devoted to his most Sacred Heart. Some of these promises are: "I will comfort them in all their afflictions. I will establish peace in their homes. I will bestow abundant blessings on all their undertakings. I will bless every place where a picture of my Heart shall be displayed and honored." The greatest promise Jesus made is this: "My divine Heart shall be the safe refuge in the last moment to all those who receive Holy Communion on the First Friday for nine months in a row."
Reflection: St. Margaret Mary understood in a special way how deeply Jesus loves each of us. We can learn from her to trust in the Heart of Jesus, which-as she wrote-is filled with "love to meet our every need."
Saint information comes from: http://www.holyspiritinteractive.net/dailysaint/october/1016.asp
Rom 4:1-8
Ps 32:1-2, 5, 11
Lk 12:1-7
Jesus reminds us that God is active in creation and knows us better than we know ourselves. The Lord sees our very soul and regardless of who we are or what we have done, we are loved by him. What a wonderful God we have...A God who is not only the source of love but is love as St. John tells us in his letters. Let us find some time today to take a few moments and thank the Lord for all he has done in our lives, and in doing so allow him to continue to purify our heart and soul. Have a great day and God Bless.
Prayer: Lord, let your purifying love fill our lives so that we may be filled with your Spirit and anything that is not of you is removed from our life. We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen
Saint of the Day - St. Margaret Mary
Margaret Mary lived in the seventeenth century. She is the famous French nun to whom Jesus showed his Sacred Heart. As a child, she was a happy little girl who loved the nuns at school. But when she was eleven, she became very sick. It was four years before she was well again. Her father had died, and an aunt had moved into their home. This aunt and her husband made Margaret Mary and her mother suffer very much. Almost every day, the teenager would hide in the garden to cry and pray. What hurt her most was seeing her mother get hurt. Yet Margaret Mary grew to love good times. A few years later, she was considering marriage. Her mother wanted her to marry and so did her relatives. They were worried about her, especially when she brought beggar children into the garden to try to teach them. Margaret Mary hesitated a while, neither marrying nor entering the convent. At last she decided on the convent. She joined the Visitation sisters and was a kind, humble sister. Often she made others impatient since she was slow and clumsy. But she was dear to Jesus. He began to appear to St. Margaret Mary to show her how much he loves us all. Jesus wanted her to spread devotion to his Sacred Heart. It was a very hard thing to do. Many people thought Margaret Mary had not really seen Jesus at all. Some were angry with her for trying to spread the new devotion. This brought her great suffering. Yet she did her best to carry out the Lord's wish. Jesus blessed her hard work and pain. Today, this wonderful devotion to the Sacred Heart is practiced all over the world. Our Lord made great promises to St. Margaret Mary for those who are devoted to his most Sacred Heart. Some of these promises are: "I will comfort them in all their afflictions. I will establish peace in their homes. I will bestow abundant blessings on all their undertakings. I will bless every place where a picture of my Heart shall be displayed and honored." The greatest promise Jesus made is this: "My divine Heart shall be the safe refuge in the last moment to all those who receive Holy Communion on the First Friday for nine months in a row."
Reflection: St. Margaret Mary understood in a special way how deeply Jesus loves each of us. We can learn from her to trust in the Heart of Jesus, which-as she wrote-is filled with "love to meet our every need."
Saint information comes from: http://www.holyspiritinteractive.net/dailysaint/october/1016.asp
Wednesday, October 14, 2009
The Standard of Forgiveness
Today's Readings:
Rom 2:1-11
Ps 62:2-3. 6-7, 9
Lk 11:42-46
St. Paul in our 1st reading reminds us that the standard we use to judge others, is the same standard with which we will be judged. When we pray the Our Father we say "forgive us as we forgive others..." God is just yet also merciful; we are called to show that same mercy that we were first shown, to those whom we come into contact with. We do not overlook wrong-doing but at the same time, we look to God so that we may not judge to harshly as well. Today let us as our Father in Heaven who has been very merciful with us, to teach us to practice that same mercy in our lives with others. Have a great day and God Bless.
Prayer: Lord, just as you forgive us, help us to learn to forgive others so that your mercy and love may shine through all that we do. We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen.
Saint of the Day - St. Callistus I
This great pope and martyr lived in the first part of the third century. He was once a young slave in Rome, who got into serious trouble. His master, a Christian, had put him in charge of a bank. Somehow, Callistus lost the money deposited with him by other Christians. In fear, he ran away from Rome. He was caught, after jumping into the sea to try to get away. His sentence was a terrible one: he was chained and put to hard labor in a mill. From this punishment Callistus was released, only because his creditors hoped he could get some of their money back. But once again he was arrested, this time for having gotten into a fight. He was sent to the mines of Sardinia. When the emperor freed all the Christians who had been condemned to those mines, Callistus was freed, too. From that time on, things began to go better for him. Pope St. Zephrinus came to know and trust the freed slave. He placed him in charge of the public Christian cemetery in Rome. This cemetery is now named after St. Callistus himself. Many popes were buried in it. Callistus proved himself worthy of the pope's confidence in him. St. Zephrinus not only ordained him a priest, but also made him his friend and advisor. Later on, St. Callistus himself became pope. Some people complained because he showed too much mercy to sinners. However, the holy pope ruled that even murderers could be admitted to communion after they had done penance for their sin. This great pope always defended the true doctrine of Jesus. He ended his life in 222 with a glorious martyrdom.
Reflection: The life of St. Callistus can remind us that God can choose anyone to do his work-we only need to have faith in his power.
Saint information comes from: http://www.holyspiritinteractive.net/dailysaint/october/1014.asp
Rom 2:1-11
Ps 62:2-3. 6-7, 9
Lk 11:42-46
St. Paul in our 1st reading reminds us that the standard we use to judge others, is the same standard with which we will be judged. When we pray the Our Father we say "forgive us as we forgive others..." God is just yet also merciful; we are called to show that same mercy that we were first shown, to those whom we come into contact with. We do not overlook wrong-doing but at the same time, we look to God so that we may not judge to harshly as well. Today let us as our Father in Heaven who has been very merciful with us, to teach us to practice that same mercy in our lives with others. Have a great day and God Bless.
Prayer: Lord, just as you forgive us, help us to learn to forgive others so that your mercy and love may shine through all that we do. We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen.
Saint of the Day - St. Callistus I
This great pope and martyr lived in the first part of the third century. He was once a young slave in Rome, who got into serious trouble. His master, a Christian, had put him in charge of a bank. Somehow, Callistus lost the money deposited with him by other Christians. In fear, he ran away from Rome. He was caught, after jumping into the sea to try to get away. His sentence was a terrible one: he was chained and put to hard labor in a mill. From this punishment Callistus was released, only because his creditors hoped he could get some of their money back. But once again he was arrested, this time for having gotten into a fight. He was sent to the mines of Sardinia. When the emperor freed all the Christians who had been condemned to those mines, Callistus was freed, too. From that time on, things began to go better for him. Pope St. Zephrinus came to know and trust the freed slave. He placed him in charge of the public Christian cemetery in Rome. This cemetery is now named after St. Callistus himself. Many popes were buried in it. Callistus proved himself worthy of the pope's confidence in him. St. Zephrinus not only ordained him a priest, but also made him his friend and advisor. Later on, St. Callistus himself became pope. Some people complained because he showed too much mercy to sinners. However, the holy pope ruled that even murderers could be admitted to communion after they had done penance for their sin. This great pope always defended the true doctrine of Jesus. He ended his life in 222 with a glorious martyrdom.
Reflection: The life of St. Callistus can remind us that God can choose anyone to do his work-we only need to have faith in his power.
Saint information comes from: http://www.holyspiritinteractive.net/dailysaint/october/1014.asp
Tuesday, October 13, 2009
Spiritual Exercise
Today's Readings:
Rom 1:16-25
Ps 19:2-5
Lk 11:37-41
We work so hard to make sure we look presentable and professional. Diets, exercise, physical training, nice clothes, all these things are great; the question is do we work as hard to keep the inside as fit as the outside? Jesus stresses this point to the Pharisee in our Gospel this morning. The body is a temple of the Holy Spirit and should be taken care of, but our soul also needs us to be cared for. We do this through prayer and exercising virtue. Today let us not only have a fitness plan for our bodies, but one for our soul as well. Have a great day and God Bless.
Prayer: Lord, you created us body and soul, help us to care for both so that we may always be pleasing in your sight. We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen.
Saint of the Day - St. Edward
King St. Edward was one of the best loved of all the English kings. He lived in the eleventh century. Because of enemies in his own country, he had to live in Normandy, France, from the time he was ten until he was forty. However, when he came back to rule, all the people welcomed him with great joy. St. Edward was a tall, well-built man, but he was never healthy. Still he was able to rule his country well and keep peace most of the time. This was because he trusted in God and held firm when necessary. King Edward went to daily Mass. He was a gentle, kind man who never spoke sternly. To poor people and foreigners, he showed special charity. He also helped monks in every way he could. It was his justice to everyone and his love for God's Church that made St. Edward so popular with the English people. They would cheer him as he rode out of the castle. Although he was a king with great power, St. Edward showed his honesty by the way he kept his word-to God and to people. While he was still living in Normandy, he had made a promise to God. He said that if his family would see better times, he would go on a pilgrimage to St. Peter's tomb in Rome. After he was made king, he wanted to keep his vow. But the nobles knew that there would be no one to keep the peace among the warlike people in the land. So, although they admired his devotion, they did not want him to go. The whole matter was brought to the pope, St. Leo IX. He decided that the king could stay home. He said that King Edward was to give to the poor the money he would have spent on the trip. He also was to build or repair a monastery in honor of St. Peter. Obediently, the king carried out the pope's decision. He died in 1066 and was buried in the marvelous monastery he had rebuilt. He was proclaimed a saint by Pope Alexander III in 1161.
Reflection: This holy king tried throughout his life to use the gifts he had been given in order to help others. How do I use the gifts I have to do good?
Saint information comes from: http://www.holyspiritinteractive.net/dailysaint/october/1013.asp
Rom 1:16-25
Ps 19:2-5
Lk 11:37-41
We work so hard to make sure we look presentable and professional. Diets, exercise, physical training, nice clothes, all these things are great; the question is do we work as hard to keep the inside as fit as the outside? Jesus stresses this point to the Pharisee in our Gospel this morning. The body is a temple of the Holy Spirit and should be taken care of, but our soul also needs us to be cared for. We do this through prayer and exercising virtue. Today let us not only have a fitness plan for our bodies, but one for our soul as well. Have a great day and God Bless.
Prayer: Lord, you created us body and soul, help us to care for both so that we may always be pleasing in your sight. We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen.
Saint of the Day - St. Edward
King St. Edward was one of the best loved of all the English kings. He lived in the eleventh century. Because of enemies in his own country, he had to live in Normandy, France, from the time he was ten until he was forty. However, when he came back to rule, all the people welcomed him with great joy. St. Edward was a tall, well-built man, but he was never healthy. Still he was able to rule his country well and keep peace most of the time. This was because he trusted in God and held firm when necessary. King Edward went to daily Mass. He was a gentle, kind man who never spoke sternly. To poor people and foreigners, he showed special charity. He also helped monks in every way he could. It was his justice to everyone and his love for God's Church that made St. Edward so popular with the English people. They would cheer him as he rode out of the castle. Although he was a king with great power, St. Edward showed his honesty by the way he kept his word-to God and to people. While he was still living in Normandy, he had made a promise to God. He said that if his family would see better times, he would go on a pilgrimage to St. Peter's tomb in Rome. After he was made king, he wanted to keep his vow. But the nobles knew that there would be no one to keep the peace among the warlike people in the land. So, although they admired his devotion, they did not want him to go. The whole matter was brought to the pope, St. Leo IX. He decided that the king could stay home. He said that King Edward was to give to the poor the money he would have spent on the trip. He also was to build or repair a monastery in honor of St. Peter. Obediently, the king carried out the pope's decision. He died in 1066 and was buried in the marvelous monastery he had rebuilt. He was proclaimed a saint by Pope Alexander III in 1161.
Reflection: This holy king tried throughout his life to use the gifts he had been given in order to help others. How do I use the gifts I have to do good?
Saint information comes from: http://www.holyspiritinteractive.net/dailysaint/october/1013.asp
Monday, October 12, 2009
Signs
Today's Readings:
Rom 1:1-7
Ps 98:1-4
Lk 11:29-32
Jesus speaks out against those in his day asking to see a sign that he from God and tells them the Lord has already sent them plenty of signs for them to believe. We too have been given many signs of God's love for us, the question is have we opened our eyes to see them? We ourselves are called to be sings as well; signs of God's presence and goodness in the world. This day let us allow Christ to work through us so that we may not only see the signs God gives us, but allow our very lives to become signs of Christ in the world. Have a great day and God Bless.
Prayer: Good and gracious God, you have filled creation with signs of your presence, help us to be a sign of the victory Christ won for us through his holy cross. We ask this in Jesus' name. Amen.
Saint of the Day - St. Felix & St. Cyprian
Felix and Cyprian were African bishops who lived in the fifth century. They suffered with over 4,900 martyrs in the terrible persecution by the Vandals. Huneric, the Vandal king, drove these Christians into exile in the Libyan desert. They were treated with great cruelty by the Moors. A holy bishop named Victor used to try to help the poor Christians who had been shut up in a horrible prison. They were packed in without sufficient air or light. He wrote the story of their courage and their sufferings. Bishop Victor says that when they were ordered into exile in the terrible desert, they came out of that prison singing hymns. Other Christians burst into tears at the sight of their great courage. Even women and children went with them to exile and death. The story is told of Bishop St. Felix. He was so old and so crippled that someone said to the Vandal king: "You might just as well leave him here to die." But King Huneric cruelly answered, "If he cannot ride a horse, he can be dragged by oxen." In the end, they decided to tie the brave old bishop to a donkey and he was carried off to die in the desert. We also celebrate St. Cyprian. This bishop lived two centuries after St. Cyprian of Carthage who is honored on September 16. Today's Cyprian risked his own life to take care of as many prisoners as he could. He spent all his time and strength, plus everything he owned, to assist them. At last, he, too, was arrested and sent into exile. There he also died a martyr from the cruel treatment reserved for Christians.
Reflection: These two men followed the example of Jesus as leaders in the Church. They sought to serve those whom they guided with great generosity.
Saint information comes from: http://www.holyspiritinteractive.net/dailysaint/october/1012.asp
Rom 1:1-7
Ps 98:1-4
Lk 11:29-32
Jesus speaks out against those in his day asking to see a sign that he from God and tells them the Lord has already sent them plenty of signs for them to believe. We too have been given many signs of God's love for us, the question is have we opened our eyes to see them? We ourselves are called to be sings as well; signs of God's presence and goodness in the world. This day let us allow Christ to work through us so that we may not only see the signs God gives us, but allow our very lives to become signs of Christ in the world. Have a great day and God Bless.
Prayer: Good and gracious God, you have filled creation with signs of your presence, help us to be a sign of the victory Christ won for us through his holy cross. We ask this in Jesus' name. Amen.
Saint of the Day - St. Felix & St. Cyprian
Felix and Cyprian were African bishops who lived in the fifth century. They suffered with over 4,900 martyrs in the terrible persecution by the Vandals. Huneric, the Vandal king, drove these Christians into exile in the Libyan desert. They were treated with great cruelty by the Moors. A holy bishop named Victor used to try to help the poor Christians who had been shut up in a horrible prison. They were packed in without sufficient air or light. He wrote the story of their courage and their sufferings. Bishop Victor says that when they were ordered into exile in the terrible desert, they came out of that prison singing hymns. Other Christians burst into tears at the sight of their great courage. Even women and children went with them to exile and death. The story is told of Bishop St. Felix. He was so old and so crippled that someone said to the Vandal king: "You might just as well leave him here to die." But King Huneric cruelly answered, "If he cannot ride a horse, he can be dragged by oxen." In the end, they decided to tie the brave old bishop to a donkey and he was carried off to die in the desert. We also celebrate St. Cyprian. This bishop lived two centuries after St. Cyprian of Carthage who is honored on September 16. Today's Cyprian risked his own life to take care of as many prisoners as he could. He spent all his time and strength, plus everything he owned, to assist them. At last, he, too, was arrested and sent into exile. There he also died a martyr from the cruel treatment reserved for Christians.
Reflection: These two men followed the example of Jesus as leaders in the Church. They sought to serve those whom they guided with great generosity.
Saint information comes from: http://www.holyspiritinteractive.net/dailysaint/october/1012.asp
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