Today's Readings:
Rom 10:9-18
Ps 19:8-11
Mt 4:18-22
Christ calls each of us by name to himself; as we enter into this Advent season, let us prepare our hearts for his coming. We await his coming at Christmas but we also await his coming again in glory. Let us hold fast to that call that we first received at Baptism and live out our duties as a people of faith so that we may also 'prepare the way for our Lord' in each of our hearts. Have a great day and God Bless.
Prayer: Lord, help us to live out the calling you have given us so that we may always be ready and watchful for your return in glory. We ask this through your holy name. Amen.
Saint of the Day - St. Andrew the Apostle
Andrew, like his brother, Simon Peter, was a fisherman. He became a disciple of the great St. John the Baptist. However, when John pointed to Jesus and said, "Behold the Lamb of God," Andrew understood that Jesus was greater. At once he left John to follow the Divine Master. Jesus knew that Andrew was walking behind him. Turning back, he asked, "What do you seek?" Andrew answered that he would like to know where Jesus dwelt. Our Lord replied, "Come and see." Andrew had been with Jesus only a little while when he realized that this was truly the Messiah. From then on, he decided to follow Jesus. He became the first disciple of Christ. Next Andrew brought his brother Simon (St. Peter) to Jesus. The Lord received him, too, as his disciple. At first the two brothers continued to carry on their fishing trade and family affairs. Later, the Lord called them to stay with him all the time. He promised to make them fishers of men, and this time they left their nets for good. It is believed that after Our Lord ascended into heaven, St. Andrew preached the Gospel in Greece. He is said to have been put to death on a cross, to which he was tied, not nailed. He lived two days in that state of suffering. Andrew still found enough strength to preach to the people who gathered around their beloved apostle. Two countries have chosen St. Andrew as their patron-Russia and Scotland.
Reflection: "After Andrew had stayed with Jesus and had learned much from him, he did not keep this treasure to himself, but hastened to share it with his brother." --St. John Chrysostom
Saint information comes from: http://www.holyspiritinteractive.net/dailysaint/november/1130.asp
Monday, November 30, 2009
Monday, November 23, 2009
Thanksgiving
Today's Readings:
Dn 1:1-6, 8-20
Lk 21:1-4
In our lives we have been given so much and yet often we forget about all the gifts we have received. Jesus tells us that the widow who put in a few pennies into the temple collection put in more than all those who put in hundreds since she gave all she had while the others gave from surplus. We are indeed very blessed; we have food anytime we need it, we have clothes on our backs, shelter, and more freedoms that most people could even imagine. As we enter into this Thanksgiving week let truly be thankful, not just for our material possessions, but for all the things our God has blessed us with; our life our family, friends, and our faith. Have a great day and God Bless.
Prayer: Lord, you have given us so many good things, help us to be thankful for them and to use them in the service of you and our neighbor. We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen.
Saint of the Day - St. Columban
Columban, the most famous of the Irish missionary-monks, lived in the seventh century. He had a good education as a boy. When he was a teenager, he decided to become a monk. His mother could not bear the thought of him leaving her. However, Columban felt the call to serve God in the quiet of a monastery. After many years as a monk in Ireland, Columban and twelve other monks set sail for France. There was a shortage of priests there at that time. The French people were inspired by the lives of the monks. These holy men performed penance, practiced devotion and lived in charity. Many young men were attracted to this holy way of life. They came and asked to join the monks. Soon the monks were building other monasteries to house all the disciples of St. Columban. There were some people, however, who thought the rules of these monks were too strict. St. Columban also faced danger when he confronted the king about his sins. As a result, he and his Irish monks had to leave France. St. Columban, though fairly old, still tried to preach to unbelievers in Switzerland. When he was seventy, he went into Italy and defended the faith against the Arian heretics. In his letters to Pope St. Boniface IV, St. Columban proclaims his great devotion to the Holy Father. "All we Irish, living in the most distant parts of the earth," he says, "are bound to the Chair of St. Peter." He calls the pope the "leader of leaders." In his last years, St. Columban built the great monastery of Bobbio in Italy. He died there on November 23, 615. After his death, both the Irish and the Italians were very devoted to this wonderful missionary.
Reflection: "It is a glorious privilege that God should grant man his eternal image…. We should turn back our image undefiled and holy to our God and Father, for he is holy…. We must restore his image with love, for he is love…. We must restore it with loyalty and truth, for he is loyal and truthful."
Saint information comes from: http://www.holyspiritinteractive.net/dailysaint/november/1123.asp
Dn 1:1-6, 8-20
Lk 21:1-4
In our lives we have been given so much and yet often we forget about all the gifts we have received. Jesus tells us that the widow who put in a few pennies into the temple collection put in more than all those who put in hundreds since she gave all she had while the others gave from surplus. We are indeed very blessed; we have food anytime we need it, we have clothes on our backs, shelter, and more freedoms that most people could even imagine. As we enter into this Thanksgiving week let truly be thankful, not just for our material possessions, but for all the things our God has blessed us with; our life our family, friends, and our faith. Have a great day and God Bless.
Prayer: Lord, you have given us so many good things, help us to be thankful for them and to use them in the service of you and our neighbor. We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen.
Saint of the Day - St. Columban
Columban, the most famous of the Irish missionary-monks, lived in the seventh century. He had a good education as a boy. When he was a teenager, he decided to become a monk. His mother could not bear the thought of him leaving her. However, Columban felt the call to serve God in the quiet of a monastery. After many years as a monk in Ireland, Columban and twelve other monks set sail for France. There was a shortage of priests there at that time. The French people were inspired by the lives of the monks. These holy men performed penance, practiced devotion and lived in charity. Many young men were attracted to this holy way of life. They came and asked to join the monks. Soon the monks were building other monasteries to house all the disciples of St. Columban. There were some people, however, who thought the rules of these monks were too strict. St. Columban also faced danger when he confronted the king about his sins. As a result, he and his Irish monks had to leave France. St. Columban, though fairly old, still tried to preach to unbelievers in Switzerland. When he was seventy, he went into Italy and defended the faith against the Arian heretics. In his letters to Pope St. Boniface IV, St. Columban proclaims his great devotion to the Holy Father. "All we Irish, living in the most distant parts of the earth," he says, "are bound to the Chair of St. Peter." He calls the pope the "leader of leaders." In his last years, St. Columban built the great monastery of Bobbio in Italy. He died there on November 23, 615. After his death, both the Irish and the Italians were very devoted to this wonderful missionary.
Reflection: "It is a glorious privilege that God should grant man his eternal image…. We should turn back our image undefiled and holy to our God and Father, for he is holy…. We must restore his image with love, for he is love…. We must restore it with loyalty and truth, for he is loyal and truthful."
Saint information comes from: http://www.holyspiritinteractive.net/dailysaint/november/1123.asp
Wednesday, November 18, 2009
Gifts Received
Today's Readings:
2 Mc 7:1, 20-31
Ps 17:1, 5-6, 8, 15
Lk 19:11-28
Each of us have been given many gifts from our Lord, but do we recognize them and use them in his service? The Gospel reminds us today that we are called to use those talents and gifts rather than hiding them. We are called to glorify our God with those gifts since it was from him that we first received them. Today let us look at what we have been given in our lives and in thanksgiving offer them back to the Father by using them in his service. Have a great day and God Bless.
Prayer: Lord you are the giver of all good gifts, help us to use those gifts in service of you and our neighbor this day. We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen.
Saint of the Day - St. Rose Philippine Duchesne
This saint labored for Jesus in the United States. She was born into a wealthy French family in 1769. As a youngster, there was nothing especially holy about Rose. In fact, she often did her best to get her own way. She ordered everyone else to do what she wanted. In school, her favorite subject was history. She later became very interested in stories about Native Americans. At the age of seventeen, Rose entered the convent. She was not allowed to take her vows when the time came, because of the French Revolution. All the professed sisters were forced by the revolutionaries to leave the country, and Rose had to return to her family. Still she did not give up her desire to belong to Jesus. Several years later she joined the newly formed Religious of the Sacred Heart of Jesus. Mother Rose Philippine Duchesne's great desire was to be a missionary. However, she was fifty before she was sent to the United States. It was still a mission land at this time. In Mississippi, she and a small group of sisters started a free school for the children of poor families. The work was hard, because of the different languages and ways of the people. Despite the many difficulties, Mother Duchesne never lost her youthful enthusiasm. As she grew older, she became less commanding and more gentle. Mother Duchesne was a real heroine who went through terrible journeys. She nearly died from yellow fever. She overcame all kinds of obstacles to open convents in the New World. Then, when she was seventy-one, she resigned her position as superior. She went off to open a school among her beloved native people. She died in 1852 at the age of eighty-three and was proclaimed a saint by Pope John Paul II in 1988.
Reflection: Although St. Rose spent a very short time serving in the mission, she was able to help the people with her prayers. The Native Americans called her "the Woman Who Prays Always."
Saint information comes from: http://www.holyspiritinteractive.net/dailysaint/november/1118.asp
2 Mc 7:1, 20-31
Ps 17:1, 5-6, 8, 15
Lk 19:11-28
Each of us have been given many gifts from our Lord, but do we recognize them and use them in his service? The Gospel reminds us today that we are called to use those talents and gifts rather than hiding them. We are called to glorify our God with those gifts since it was from him that we first received them. Today let us look at what we have been given in our lives and in thanksgiving offer them back to the Father by using them in his service. Have a great day and God Bless.
Prayer: Lord you are the giver of all good gifts, help us to use those gifts in service of you and our neighbor this day. We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen.
Saint of the Day - St. Rose Philippine Duchesne
This saint labored for Jesus in the United States. She was born into a wealthy French family in 1769. As a youngster, there was nothing especially holy about Rose. In fact, she often did her best to get her own way. She ordered everyone else to do what she wanted. In school, her favorite subject was history. She later became very interested in stories about Native Americans. At the age of seventeen, Rose entered the convent. She was not allowed to take her vows when the time came, because of the French Revolution. All the professed sisters were forced by the revolutionaries to leave the country, and Rose had to return to her family. Still she did not give up her desire to belong to Jesus. Several years later she joined the newly formed Religious of the Sacred Heart of Jesus. Mother Rose Philippine Duchesne's great desire was to be a missionary. However, she was fifty before she was sent to the United States. It was still a mission land at this time. In Mississippi, she and a small group of sisters started a free school for the children of poor families. The work was hard, because of the different languages and ways of the people. Despite the many difficulties, Mother Duchesne never lost her youthful enthusiasm. As she grew older, she became less commanding and more gentle. Mother Duchesne was a real heroine who went through terrible journeys. She nearly died from yellow fever. She overcame all kinds of obstacles to open convents in the New World. Then, when she was seventy-one, she resigned her position as superior. She went off to open a school among her beloved native people. She died in 1852 at the age of eighty-three and was proclaimed a saint by Pope John Paul II in 1988.
Reflection: Although St. Rose spent a very short time serving in the mission, she was able to help the people with her prayers. The Native Americans called her "the Woman Who Prays Always."
Saint information comes from: http://www.holyspiritinteractive.net/dailysaint/november/1118.asp
Tuesday, November 17, 2009
Stand Firm In Faith
Today's Readings:
2 Mc 6:18-31
Ps 3:2-7
Lk 19:1-10
In our 1st reading we see a man willing to die for his faith rather than betray it and sacrifice to idols. Do we have this same type of faith? There is a saying that 'if a person does not stand for something, they will fall for everything.' What does our faith stand for in our lives? Today let us ask the Lord to help us stand firm in our faith so that we may always be living witnesses of the Gospel. Have a great day and God Bless.
Prayer: Lord, fill us with your Holy Spirit that strengthened the martyrs and help us to live out or faith daily. We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen.
Saint of the Day - St. Elizabeth of Hungry
This daughter of the king of Hungary was born in 1207. She married Louis, the ruler of Thuringia, while she was very young. (We celebrate the feast of Blessed Louis on September 11.) Elizabeth was a beautiful bride who dearly loved her handsome husband. Louis returned her affection with all his heart. God sent them three children and they were very happy for six years. Then St. Elizabeth's sorrows began. Louis died of the plague. She was so heart-broken that she cried: "The world is dead to me and all that is joyous in the world." Louis' relatives had never liked Elizabeth because she had given so much food to the poor. While Louis was alive, they had not been able to do anything. Now, however, they could and they did. Within a short time, this beautiful, gentle princess and her three children were sent away from the castle. They suffered hunger and cold. Yet Elizabeth did not complain about her terrible sufferings. Instead she blessed God and prayed with great fervor. She accepted the sorrows just as she had accepted the joys. Elizabeth's relatives came to her rescue. She and her children had a home once more. Her uncle wanted her to marry again, for she was still very young and attractive. But the saint had determined to give herself to God. She wanted to imitate the poverty of St. Francis. She went to live in a poor cottage and spent the last few years of her life serving the sick and the poor. She even went fishing to try to earn more money for her beloved poor. St. Elizabeth was only twenty-four when she died. On her death bed, she was heard to sing softly. She had great confidence that Jesus would take her to himself. Elizabeth passed away in 1231.
Reflection: St. Elizabeth had great compassion for the poor. As followers of Christ, we are all called to be moved at the sight of others' sufferings.
Saint information comes from: http://www.holyspiritinteractive.net/dailysaint/november/1117.asp
2 Mc 6:18-31
Ps 3:2-7
Lk 19:1-10
In our 1st reading we see a man willing to die for his faith rather than betray it and sacrifice to idols. Do we have this same type of faith? There is a saying that 'if a person does not stand for something, they will fall for everything.' What does our faith stand for in our lives? Today let us ask the Lord to help us stand firm in our faith so that we may always be living witnesses of the Gospel. Have a great day and God Bless.
Prayer: Lord, fill us with your Holy Spirit that strengthened the martyrs and help us to live out or faith daily. We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen.
Saint of the Day - St. Elizabeth of Hungry
This daughter of the king of Hungary was born in 1207. She married Louis, the ruler of Thuringia, while she was very young. (We celebrate the feast of Blessed Louis on September 11.) Elizabeth was a beautiful bride who dearly loved her handsome husband. Louis returned her affection with all his heart. God sent them three children and they were very happy for six years. Then St. Elizabeth's sorrows began. Louis died of the plague. She was so heart-broken that she cried: "The world is dead to me and all that is joyous in the world." Louis' relatives had never liked Elizabeth because she had given so much food to the poor. While Louis was alive, they had not been able to do anything. Now, however, they could and they did. Within a short time, this beautiful, gentle princess and her three children were sent away from the castle. They suffered hunger and cold. Yet Elizabeth did not complain about her terrible sufferings. Instead she blessed God and prayed with great fervor. She accepted the sorrows just as she had accepted the joys. Elizabeth's relatives came to her rescue. She and her children had a home once more. Her uncle wanted her to marry again, for she was still very young and attractive. But the saint had determined to give herself to God. She wanted to imitate the poverty of St. Francis. She went to live in a poor cottage and spent the last few years of her life serving the sick and the poor. She even went fishing to try to earn more money for her beloved poor. St. Elizabeth was only twenty-four when she died. On her death bed, she was heard to sing softly. She had great confidence that Jesus would take her to himself. Elizabeth passed away in 1231.
Reflection: St. Elizabeth had great compassion for the poor. As followers of Christ, we are all called to be moved at the sight of others' sufferings.
Saint information comes from: http://www.holyspiritinteractive.net/dailysaint/november/1117.asp
Monday, November 16, 2009
Faith and Prayer
Today's Readings:
1 Mc 1:10-15, 41-43, 54-57, 62-63
Ps 119
Lk 18:35-43
In our Gospel today, a blind man calls out to Jesus to heal him. This man had faith that Christ could and would help him if he asked. Do we have that same faith? When we go to our Lord in prayer, do we believe that he hears us and will answer our prayers? Like the man in our Gospel, let us call out to God with true faith; believing that the Father does hear us and will always answer us when we go to him. Have a great day and God Bless.
Prayer: Lord you hear and answer us each time we go to you in prayer, continue to help our faith and love for you grow. We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen.
Saint of the Day - St. Margaret of Scotland
Margaret was an English princess born in 1046. She and her mother sailed to Scotland to escape from the king who had conquered their land. King Malcolm of Scotland welcomed them. He fell in love with the beautiful princess. Margaret and Malcolm were married before long. As queen, Margaret changed her husband and the country for the better. Malcolm was good, but he and his court were very rough. When he saw how wise his wife was, he willingly listened to her good advice. Margaret helped him control his temper and practice the Christian virtues. She made the court beautiful and civilized. The king and queen were wonderful examples because of the way they prayed together and treated each other. They fed crowds of poor people. They tried very hard to imitate Jesus in their own lives. Margaret was a blessing for all the people of Scotland. Before she came, there was great ignorance. Many people had bad habits that kept them from growing closer to God. Margaret worked hard to obtain good teachers to help the people correct evil practices. She and Malcolm had new churches built. She loved to make the churches beautiful to honor God. In fact, Queen Margaret embroidered some of the priests' vestments herself. Margaret and Malcolm had six sons and two daughters. They loved all their children very much. The youngest boy became St. David. But Margaret had sorrows, too. In her last illness, she learned that both her husband and her son, Edward, had been killed in battle. They died just four days before Margaret's death. She died on November 16, 1093. Margaret was proclaimed a saint by Pope Innocent IV in 1250.
Reflection: Margaret and Malcolm witnessed to the grace of the sacrament of matrimony by striving to grow in holiness together.
Saint information comes from: http://www.holyspiritinteractive.net/dailysaint/november/1116.asp
1 Mc 1:10-15, 41-43, 54-57, 62-63
Ps 119
Lk 18:35-43
In our Gospel today, a blind man calls out to Jesus to heal him. This man had faith that Christ could and would help him if he asked. Do we have that same faith? When we go to our Lord in prayer, do we believe that he hears us and will answer our prayers? Like the man in our Gospel, let us call out to God with true faith; believing that the Father does hear us and will always answer us when we go to him. Have a great day and God Bless.
Prayer: Lord you hear and answer us each time we go to you in prayer, continue to help our faith and love for you grow. We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen.
Saint of the Day - St. Margaret of Scotland
Margaret was an English princess born in 1046. She and her mother sailed to Scotland to escape from the king who had conquered their land. King Malcolm of Scotland welcomed them. He fell in love with the beautiful princess. Margaret and Malcolm were married before long. As queen, Margaret changed her husband and the country for the better. Malcolm was good, but he and his court were very rough. When he saw how wise his wife was, he willingly listened to her good advice. Margaret helped him control his temper and practice the Christian virtues. She made the court beautiful and civilized. The king and queen were wonderful examples because of the way they prayed together and treated each other. They fed crowds of poor people. They tried very hard to imitate Jesus in their own lives. Margaret was a blessing for all the people of Scotland. Before she came, there was great ignorance. Many people had bad habits that kept them from growing closer to God. Margaret worked hard to obtain good teachers to help the people correct evil practices. She and Malcolm had new churches built. She loved to make the churches beautiful to honor God. In fact, Queen Margaret embroidered some of the priests' vestments herself. Margaret and Malcolm had six sons and two daughters. They loved all their children very much. The youngest boy became St. David. But Margaret had sorrows, too. In her last illness, she learned that both her husband and her son, Edward, had been killed in battle. They died just four days before Margaret's death. She died on November 16, 1093. Margaret was proclaimed a saint by Pope Innocent IV in 1250.
Reflection: Margaret and Malcolm witnessed to the grace of the sacrament of matrimony by striving to grow in holiness together.
Saint information comes from: http://www.holyspiritinteractive.net/dailysaint/november/1116.asp
Friday, November 13, 2009
Beauty of the Creator
Today's Readings:
Wis 13:1-9
Ps 19:2-5
Lk 17:26-37
Our 1st reading today reminds us that though the universe is majestic and beautiful to behold, it is only reflecting a fraction of the beauty of its Creator. The same holds true with us, each of us reflects the image and likeness of God, but do we recognize Christ in others or do we just see another person. All of creation reflects its maker and often we can see God through his creation, but we who are in the image and likeness of God are called to reflect that all the more. Today let us seek out God in all those we encounter as well as letting him shine through us. Have a great day and God Bless.
Prayer: Lord, creation reflects your love; help us to allow that love to be seen in all we do this day. We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen.
Saint of the Day - St. Frances Zavier Cabrini
Frances was born on July 15, 1850. As a child growing up in Italy, she dreamed about being a missionary to China. She sailed paper boats down a stream to play her "pretend game." The paper boats were ships taking missionaries to China. And she began giving up candy because in China, she probably wouldn't be able to have any. But when she grew up, Frances was not accepted into the two convents which she asked to join. Her health was not too good. She taught school for a while. Then a priest asked her to help out in a small home for orphans. Things were very hard for Frances because of the lady who ran the house. Yet Frances stuck to the work, and some other generous women joined her. Together they took vows. At last the bishop told Frances to begin her own congregation of missionary nuns. Without hesitating, Frances started at once. This congregation is called the Missionary Sisters of the Sacred Heart. Before long, it began to grow, first in Italy and then in many other countries. Frances, whom everyone called Mother Cabrini, had always had her heart set on going to China. But it seemed that God wanted her to come to America. When Pope Leo XIII told her, "Go west, not east," the matter was settled. St. Frances Xavier Cabrini sailed for the United States and became an American citizen. She especially helped large numbers of Italian immigrants. She was their real mother and friend. Mother Cabrini and her sisters had a very hard time in the beginning. The archbishop of New York even suggested that they go back to Italy. But Mother Cabrini answered, "Your excellency, the pope sent me here and here I must stay." The archbishop admired her pioneer spirit, and so she and her sisters were permitted to begin their great work for God. Schools, hospitals, and homes for children were opened up in different states. As the years passed, Mother Cabrini made many trips to spread her congregation and its works. There were always difficulties, but she put all her trust in the Sacred Heart. "It is he who is doing everything, not us," she would say. Mother Cabrini died in Chicago on December 23, 1917. She was proclaimed a saint by Pope Pius XII in 1946.
Reflection: This holy woman was able to do a lot of good for others, by following her motto from the words of St. Paul: "I can do all things in him who strengthens me."
Saint information comes from: http://www.holyspiritinteractive.net/dailysaint/november/1113.asp
Wis 13:1-9
Ps 19:2-5
Lk 17:26-37
Our 1st reading today reminds us that though the universe is majestic and beautiful to behold, it is only reflecting a fraction of the beauty of its Creator. The same holds true with us, each of us reflects the image and likeness of God, but do we recognize Christ in others or do we just see another person. All of creation reflects its maker and often we can see God through his creation, but we who are in the image and likeness of God are called to reflect that all the more. Today let us seek out God in all those we encounter as well as letting him shine through us. Have a great day and God Bless.
Prayer: Lord, creation reflects your love; help us to allow that love to be seen in all we do this day. We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen.
Saint of the Day - St. Frances Zavier Cabrini
Frances was born on July 15, 1850. As a child growing up in Italy, she dreamed about being a missionary to China. She sailed paper boats down a stream to play her "pretend game." The paper boats were ships taking missionaries to China. And she began giving up candy because in China, she probably wouldn't be able to have any. But when she grew up, Frances was not accepted into the two convents which she asked to join. Her health was not too good. She taught school for a while. Then a priest asked her to help out in a small home for orphans. Things were very hard for Frances because of the lady who ran the house. Yet Frances stuck to the work, and some other generous women joined her. Together they took vows. At last the bishop told Frances to begin her own congregation of missionary nuns. Without hesitating, Frances started at once. This congregation is called the Missionary Sisters of the Sacred Heart. Before long, it began to grow, first in Italy and then in many other countries. Frances, whom everyone called Mother Cabrini, had always had her heart set on going to China. But it seemed that God wanted her to come to America. When Pope Leo XIII told her, "Go west, not east," the matter was settled. St. Frances Xavier Cabrini sailed for the United States and became an American citizen. She especially helped large numbers of Italian immigrants. She was their real mother and friend. Mother Cabrini and her sisters had a very hard time in the beginning. The archbishop of New York even suggested that they go back to Italy. But Mother Cabrini answered, "Your excellency, the pope sent me here and here I must stay." The archbishop admired her pioneer spirit, and so she and her sisters were permitted to begin their great work for God. Schools, hospitals, and homes for children were opened up in different states. As the years passed, Mother Cabrini made many trips to spread her congregation and its works. There were always difficulties, but she put all her trust in the Sacred Heart. "It is he who is doing everything, not us," she would say. Mother Cabrini died in Chicago on December 23, 1917. She was proclaimed a saint by Pope Pius XII in 1946.
Reflection: This holy woman was able to do a lot of good for others, by following her motto from the words of St. Paul: "I can do all things in him who strengthens me."
Saint information comes from: http://www.holyspiritinteractive.net/dailysaint/november/1113.asp
Wednesday, November 11, 2009
Thanking God
Today's Readings:
Wis 6:1-11
Ps 82:2-4, 6-7
Lk 17:11-19
In our Gospel today, Jesus cures 10 lepers but only 1 comes back to thank him. What many good things has our Lord done for us, and more importantly, have we recognized his help and thanked him for it? Often we pray in times of need, as we should; but we should also pray in times of rejoicing and thanksgiving. Today let us go to our God and not only ask for those things we need, but thank him for all of our answered prayers as well. Have a great day and God Bless.
Prayer: Thank you Lord for you abundant goodness in our lives, help us to always see you hand directing us in all that we do. We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen.
Saint of the Day - St. Martin of Tours
This soldier saint lived in the fourth century. He joined the Roman army in Italy when he was only fifteen. Although his parents were pagans, he began to study the Christian religion. Those who study the Christian religion are called catechumens until they are baptized. One very cold winter day, Martin and his companions came upon a beggar at the gate of the city of Amiens. The man's only clothes were nothing but rags and he was shaking with cold. The other soldiers passed by him, but Martin felt that it was up to him to help the beggar. Having nothing with him, he drew his sword and cut his long cloak in half. Some laughed at his funny appearance as he gave one half to the beggar. Others felt ashamed of their own selfishness. That night, Jesus appeared to Martin. He was wearing the half of the cloak that Martin had given away. "Martin, still a catechumen, has covered me with this garment," Jesus said. Right after this wonderful event, St. Martin went to be baptized. A few years later, the saint left the army. He became a disciple of St. Hilary, the bishop of Poitiers, France. Because of his strong opposition to the Arian heretics in various cities, Martin had to go into exile. But he was happy to live in the wilderness with other monks. When the people of Tours asked for him as their bishop, he refused. The people would not give up, however. They got him to come to the city to visit a sick person. Once he was there, they took him to the church. As bishop of Tours, St. Martin did all he could to rid France of paganism. He prayed, he worked, he preached everywhere. Our Lord let Martin know when his death was near. As soon as his followers heard of it, they began to weep. They begged him not to leave them. So the saint prayed: "Lord, if your people need me yet, I will not refuse the work. Your will be done." He was still laboring for the Divine Master in a far-off part of his diocese when death finally came in 397. St. Martin's tomb became one of the most famous shrines in all of Europe.
Reflection: As he lay dying, Martin expressed his lasting desire to serve others: "Lord, if your people still need me, I am ready for the task; your will be done."
Saint information comes from: http://www.holyspiritinteractive.net/dailysaint/november/1111.asp
Wis 6:1-11
Ps 82:2-4, 6-7
Lk 17:11-19
In our Gospel today, Jesus cures 10 lepers but only 1 comes back to thank him. What many good things has our Lord done for us, and more importantly, have we recognized his help and thanked him for it? Often we pray in times of need, as we should; but we should also pray in times of rejoicing and thanksgiving. Today let us go to our God and not only ask for those things we need, but thank him for all of our answered prayers as well. Have a great day and God Bless.
Prayer: Thank you Lord for you abundant goodness in our lives, help us to always see you hand directing us in all that we do. We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen.
Saint of the Day - St. Martin of Tours
This soldier saint lived in the fourth century. He joined the Roman army in Italy when he was only fifteen. Although his parents were pagans, he began to study the Christian religion. Those who study the Christian religion are called catechumens until they are baptized. One very cold winter day, Martin and his companions came upon a beggar at the gate of the city of Amiens. The man's only clothes were nothing but rags and he was shaking with cold. The other soldiers passed by him, but Martin felt that it was up to him to help the beggar. Having nothing with him, he drew his sword and cut his long cloak in half. Some laughed at his funny appearance as he gave one half to the beggar. Others felt ashamed of their own selfishness. That night, Jesus appeared to Martin. He was wearing the half of the cloak that Martin had given away. "Martin, still a catechumen, has covered me with this garment," Jesus said. Right after this wonderful event, St. Martin went to be baptized. A few years later, the saint left the army. He became a disciple of St. Hilary, the bishop of Poitiers, France. Because of his strong opposition to the Arian heretics in various cities, Martin had to go into exile. But he was happy to live in the wilderness with other monks. When the people of Tours asked for him as their bishop, he refused. The people would not give up, however. They got him to come to the city to visit a sick person. Once he was there, they took him to the church. As bishop of Tours, St. Martin did all he could to rid France of paganism. He prayed, he worked, he preached everywhere. Our Lord let Martin know when his death was near. As soon as his followers heard of it, they began to weep. They begged him not to leave them. So the saint prayed: "Lord, if your people need me yet, I will not refuse the work. Your will be done." He was still laboring for the Divine Master in a far-off part of his diocese when death finally came in 397. St. Martin's tomb became one of the most famous shrines in all of Europe.
Reflection: As he lay dying, Martin expressed his lasting desire to serve others: "Lord, if your people still need me, I am ready for the task; your will be done."
Saint information comes from: http://www.holyspiritinteractive.net/dailysaint/november/1111.asp
Tuesday, November 10, 2009
Image of God
Today's Readings:
Wis 2:23-3:9
Ps 34:2-3, 16-19
Lk 17:7-10
In our 1st reading we are reminded that we are made in the image of God and that our life does not end here, but continues into eternal life with God. This is why we were created, to love and serve our Lord and to live with him forever. What a great calling we have received...Today let us focus on that call realizing that we are pilgrims journeying through this life to our eternal life with Christ. Have a great day and God Bless.
Prayer: Lord, you have created each of us in your image and likeness; help us to allow you to be seen in all that we do so that we may one day see you face to face. We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen.
Saint of the Day - St. Leo the Great
St. Leo, a Roman, lived in the fifth century. At the death of Pope Sixtus, he became pope. Those were hard times for the Church. Barbarian armies were attacking Christians in many places. Within the Church, some people were spreading errors about the faith, too. But St. Leo was one of the greatest popes there ever was. He was absolutely unafraid of anything or anyone. He had great trust in the help of the first pope, St. Peter the apostle. He prayed to St. Peter often. To stop the spread of false teachings, St. Leo explained the true faith with his famous writings. He called a Council to condemn the wrong doctrines. Those who would not give up their mistaken beliefs were put out of the Church. And Pope Leo received back into the Church those who were sorry. He asked people to pray for them. When a large army of barbarians called Huns came to attack Rome, all the people were filled with fear. They knew that the Huns had already burned many cities. To save Rome, St. Leo rode out to meet the fierce leader, Attila. The only weapon he had was his great trust in God. When they met, something wonderful happened. Attila, the cruel pagan leader, showed the pope great honor. He made a treaty of peace with him. Attila said afterward that he had seen two mighty figures standing by the pope while he spoke. It is believed that they were the great apostles, Peter and Paul. They had been sent by God to protect Pope Leo and the Christians. Because of his humility and charity, Pope Leo was loved by all. He was pope for twenty-one years. He died on November 10, 461.
Reflection: What would happen if I lived each day in total commitment to Jesus, as Theodore did?
Saint information comes from: http://www.holyspiritinteractive.net/dailysaint/november/1110.asp
Wis 2:23-3:9
Ps 34:2-3, 16-19
Lk 17:7-10
In our 1st reading we are reminded that we are made in the image of God and that our life does not end here, but continues into eternal life with God. This is why we were created, to love and serve our Lord and to live with him forever. What a great calling we have received...Today let us focus on that call realizing that we are pilgrims journeying through this life to our eternal life with Christ. Have a great day and God Bless.
Prayer: Lord, you have created each of us in your image and likeness; help us to allow you to be seen in all that we do so that we may one day see you face to face. We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen.
Saint of the Day - St. Leo the Great
St. Leo, a Roman, lived in the fifth century. At the death of Pope Sixtus, he became pope. Those were hard times for the Church. Barbarian armies were attacking Christians in many places. Within the Church, some people were spreading errors about the faith, too. But St. Leo was one of the greatest popes there ever was. He was absolutely unafraid of anything or anyone. He had great trust in the help of the first pope, St. Peter the apostle. He prayed to St. Peter often. To stop the spread of false teachings, St. Leo explained the true faith with his famous writings. He called a Council to condemn the wrong doctrines. Those who would not give up their mistaken beliefs were put out of the Church. And Pope Leo received back into the Church those who were sorry. He asked people to pray for them. When a large army of barbarians called Huns came to attack Rome, all the people were filled with fear. They knew that the Huns had already burned many cities. To save Rome, St. Leo rode out to meet the fierce leader, Attila. The only weapon he had was his great trust in God. When they met, something wonderful happened. Attila, the cruel pagan leader, showed the pope great honor. He made a treaty of peace with him. Attila said afterward that he had seen two mighty figures standing by the pope while he spoke. It is believed that they were the great apostles, Peter and Paul. They had been sent by God to protect Pope Leo and the Christians. Because of his humility and charity, Pope Leo was loved by all. He was pope for twenty-one years. He died on November 10, 461.
Reflection: What would happen if I lived each day in total commitment to Jesus, as Theodore did?
Saint information comes from: http://www.holyspiritinteractive.net/dailysaint/november/1110.asp
Wednesday, November 4, 2009
Source of Love
Today's Readings:
Rom 13:8-10
Ps 112:1-2, 4-5, 9
Lk 14:25-33
St. Paul tells us that love fulfills all the commandments, yet in our world today the idea of 'love' has been distorted. What then is love? As St. John tells us, God is love and the source of all love. We can not know love unless we know God; therefore we must first love God, which is the point of our Gospel today. Our love for family, friends, or anything else must find its source in our love for Christ. Today let us allow that love we have for our God to guide us in all that we do. Have a great day and God Bless.
Prayer: Lord of all goodness and mercy, fill us with your love and allow our love for you to direct the work of our hands this day. We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen.
Saint of the Day- St. Charles Borromeo
Charles lived in the sixteenth century. He was the son of a rich Italian count. Like other wealthy young men, he went to the University of Pavia. Unlike many of them, however, he would have nothing to do with sinful activities. He seemed to be a slow student because he was not a good speaker, but he really made good progress. He was only twenty-three when his uncle, Pope Pius IV, gave him many important duties. Charles managed to handle all his affairs well. He was always afraid that he might stray from God because of the many temptations around him. For this reason, he was careful to deny himself many pleasures and to make the effort to be humble and patient. As a priest and later the cardinal archbishop of Milan, St. Charles was a model for his people. He gave away great amounts of money to the poor. He had only one shabby cassock (long black habit) to his name. In public, though, he dressed as a cardinal should. He attended with great care to the dignity and respect owed to Church ceremonies. In Milan the people had many bad practices and much superstition. By wise laws, by gentle kindness and by his own marvelous example, St. Charles made his diocese a model for the whole Church. He was never a good speaker-people could barely hear him-yet his words took effect. When a terrible disease caused many deaths in Milan, Cardinal Borromeo thought of nothing else but caring for his people. He prayed and did penance. He organized crews of attendants and went into debt to feed the hungry. He even had altars set up in the streets. This was for the benefit of the sick who could assist at Mass from their windows. This great man was never too busy to help simple people. He once stayed with a little shepherd boy until he had taught him the Our Father and the Hail Mary. As he lay dying at the age of forty-six, St. Charles said peacefully, "Behold, I come!" He died on November 3, 1584, and was proclaimed a saint by Pope Paul V in 1610.
Reflection: "This is the way we can easily overcome the countless difficulties we have to face day after day, which, after all, are part of our work. In meditation we find the strength to bring Christ to birth in ourselves and in others."
Saint information comes from: http://www.holyspiritinteractive.net/dailysaint/november/1104.asp
Rom 13:8-10
Ps 112:1-2, 4-5, 9
Lk 14:25-33
St. Paul tells us that love fulfills all the commandments, yet in our world today the idea of 'love' has been distorted. What then is love? As St. John tells us, God is love and the source of all love. We can not know love unless we know God; therefore we must first love God, which is the point of our Gospel today. Our love for family, friends, or anything else must find its source in our love for Christ. Today let us allow that love we have for our God to guide us in all that we do. Have a great day and God Bless.
Prayer: Lord of all goodness and mercy, fill us with your love and allow our love for you to direct the work of our hands this day. We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen.
Saint of the Day- St. Charles Borromeo
Charles lived in the sixteenth century. He was the son of a rich Italian count. Like other wealthy young men, he went to the University of Pavia. Unlike many of them, however, he would have nothing to do with sinful activities. He seemed to be a slow student because he was not a good speaker, but he really made good progress. He was only twenty-three when his uncle, Pope Pius IV, gave him many important duties. Charles managed to handle all his affairs well. He was always afraid that he might stray from God because of the many temptations around him. For this reason, he was careful to deny himself many pleasures and to make the effort to be humble and patient. As a priest and later the cardinal archbishop of Milan, St. Charles was a model for his people. He gave away great amounts of money to the poor. He had only one shabby cassock (long black habit) to his name. In public, though, he dressed as a cardinal should. He attended with great care to the dignity and respect owed to Church ceremonies. In Milan the people had many bad practices and much superstition. By wise laws, by gentle kindness and by his own marvelous example, St. Charles made his diocese a model for the whole Church. He was never a good speaker-people could barely hear him-yet his words took effect. When a terrible disease caused many deaths in Milan, Cardinal Borromeo thought of nothing else but caring for his people. He prayed and did penance. He organized crews of attendants and went into debt to feed the hungry. He even had altars set up in the streets. This was for the benefit of the sick who could assist at Mass from their windows. This great man was never too busy to help simple people. He once stayed with a little shepherd boy until he had taught him the Our Father and the Hail Mary. As he lay dying at the age of forty-six, St. Charles said peacefully, "Behold, I come!" He died on November 3, 1584, and was proclaimed a saint by Pope Paul V in 1610.
Reflection: "This is the way we can easily overcome the countless difficulties we have to face day after day, which, after all, are part of our work. In meditation we find the strength to bring Christ to birth in ourselves and in others."
Saint information comes from: http://www.holyspiritinteractive.net/dailysaint/november/1104.asp
Tuesday, November 3, 2009
Call to Holiness
Today's Readings:
Rom 12:5-16
Ps 131:1-3
Lk 14:15-24
St. Paul emphasizes the point that no matter what a person does in life, we are all called to holiness. Whether a person is in ministry, a teacher, a student, or anything else; we are all called to live out these vocations in and for Christ. It is his Spirit that enables us to anything, so it should be for him that we do everything. Today let us offer all we do and have to the Lord and ask that he makes us holy through it. Have a great day and God Bless.
Prayer: Without you Lord, nothing is holy; keep us close to you so we may be holy as you are holy. We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen.
Saint of the Day - St. Martin De Porres
Martin was born in Lima, Peru, in 1579. His father was a knight from Spain. His mother was a freed slave from Panama. His father at first left Martin and his mother and sister alone in Peru. They were very, very poor. Martin grew up good and devout. He was sent to learn the trade of a barber. He also learned how to cure many diseases according to the practices of those days. Martin's father finally decided to take care of his son's education. However, Martin wanted to give himself to God as a Dominican brother. Brother Martin soon proved to be a wonderful religious. No one was kinder or more obedient or holy. Before long, he began to work miracles, too. He cured so many sick people that everyone in the city of Lima would send for Brother Martin when there was sickness. He would go to them all, blacks and whites alike. He loved all people as his brothers and sisters in Christ. Great sums of money were given to this good, lovable Brother for his charities. People recognized how well he could organize works of charity. Not even animals were forgotten by this kind-hearted saint. He excused the comings and goings of rats and mice by saying, "The poor little things don't have enough to eat." In his sister's house, he kept a "home for wandering cats and dogs." Despite his fame in Lima, St. Martin always had a very humble opinion of himself. His name for himself was, in fact, "Brother Broom." Martin died on November 3, 1639. When he died, this beloved saint was carried to his tomb by bishops and noblemen. They wanted to honor the humble and holy brother. He was proclaimed a saint by Pope John XXIII in 1962.
Reflection: The love of Martin extended to everyone around him, without exception, and embraced all of creation. How would my life be changed if I were to see the face of Jesus in my brothers and sisters?
Saint information comes from: http://www.holyspiritinteractive.net/dailysaint/november/1103.asp
Rom 12:5-16
Ps 131:1-3
Lk 14:15-24
St. Paul emphasizes the point that no matter what a person does in life, we are all called to holiness. Whether a person is in ministry, a teacher, a student, or anything else; we are all called to live out these vocations in and for Christ. It is his Spirit that enables us to anything, so it should be for him that we do everything. Today let us offer all we do and have to the Lord and ask that he makes us holy through it. Have a great day and God Bless.
Prayer: Without you Lord, nothing is holy; keep us close to you so we may be holy as you are holy. We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen.
Saint of the Day - St. Martin De Porres
Martin was born in Lima, Peru, in 1579. His father was a knight from Spain. His mother was a freed slave from Panama. His father at first left Martin and his mother and sister alone in Peru. They were very, very poor. Martin grew up good and devout. He was sent to learn the trade of a barber. He also learned how to cure many diseases according to the practices of those days. Martin's father finally decided to take care of his son's education. However, Martin wanted to give himself to God as a Dominican brother. Brother Martin soon proved to be a wonderful religious. No one was kinder or more obedient or holy. Before long, he began to work miracles, too. He cured so many sick people that everyone in the city of Lima would send for Brother Martin when there was sickness. He would go to them all, blacks and whites alike. He loved all people as his brothers and sisters in Christ. Great sums of money were given to this good, lovable Brother for his charities. People recognized how well he could organize works of charity. Not even animals were forgotten by this kind-hearted saint. He excused the comings and goings of rats and mice by saying, "The poor little things don't have enough to eat." In his sister's house, he kept a "home for wandering cats and dogs." Despite his fame in Lima, St. Martin always had a very humble opinion of himself. His name for himself was, in fact, "Brother Broom." Martin died on November 3, 1639. When he died, this beloved saint was carried to his tomb by bishops and noblemen. They wanted to honor the humble and holy brother. He was proclaimed a saint by Pope John XXIII in 1962.
Reflection: The love of Martin extended to everyone around him, without exception, and embraced all of creation. How would my life be changed if I were to see the face of Jesus in my brothers and sisters?
Saint information comes from: http://www.holyspiritinteractive.net/dailysaint/november/1103.asp
Monday, November 2, 2009
All Souls Day
Today's Readings:
Wisdom 3:1-9
Ps 23:1-6
Rom 5:5-11
Jn 6:37-40
Today as we commemorate All Souls Day, let us remember all those who gone before us in faith and now are in the presence of God. Let us ask there prayers and rejoice with them since they now see God face to face. Most of all let us take their good examples of faith and live that faith out in our own lives. Have a great day and God Bless.
Prayer: Lord, all things come from you and go back to you; help us to live a life of faith so that along with all those who have already gone before us, we too may see you face to face. We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen.
All Souls Day Celebration
This feast day is one of the most loving celebrations in all the Church's liturgy. It is the day that we especially remember all the faithful departed-those who have passed from this life into the next. We don't know how long a particular individual who dies spends in purgatory. However, we do know that purgatory is real. Today we stop to remember all who have died. We especially pray for those who were related to us. We pray for those who taught us good things. We pray for those who made sacrifices for us. We pray for those who prayed for us while they were on this earth. We pray for the most forgotten souls. We pray for those who had great responsibilities while they were on earth. We think of those holy souls in purgatory and we realize that they are saved. Now they wait, being purified, until the moment when they can be with God, face to face. We can pray for the souls in purgatory and hasten their journey to God. Eternal rest, grant to them, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon them. May they rest in peace. Amen.
Reflection: We can express our love for those who have died by remembering them today, praying for them with faith and trust in the power of Jesus' resurrection, our source of hope.
Saint information comes from: http://www.holyspiritinteractive.net/dailysaint/november/1102.asp
Wisdom 3:1-9
Ps 23:1-6
Rom 5:5-11
Jn 6:37-40
Today as we commemorate All Souls Day, let us remember all those who gone before us in faith and now are in the presence of God. Let us ask there prayers and rejoice with them since they now see God face to face. Most of all let us take their good examples of faith and live that faith out in our own lives. Have a great day and God Bless.
Prayer: Lord, all things come from you and go back to you; help us to live a life of faith so that along with all those who have already gone before us, we too may see you face to face. We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen.
All Souls Day Celebration
This feast day is one of the most loving celebrations in all the Church's liturgy. It is the day that we especially remember all the faithful departed-those who have passed from this life into the next. We don't know how long a particular individual who dies spends in purgatory. However, we do know that purgatory is real. Today we stop to remember all who have died. We especially pray for those who were related to us. We pray for those who taught us good things. We pray for those who made sacrifices for us. We pray for those who prayed for us while they were on this earth. We pray for the most forgotten souls. We pray for those who had great responsibilities while they were on earth. We think of those holy souls in purgatory and we realize that they are saved. Now they wait, being purified, until the moment when they can be with God, face to face. We can pray for the souls in purgatory and hasten their journey to God. Eternal rest, grant to them, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon them. May they rest in peace. Amen.
Reflection: We can express our love for those who have died by remembering them today, praying for them with faith and trust in the power of Jesus' resurrection, our source of hope.
Saint information comes from: http://www.holyspiritinteractive.net/dailysaint/november/1102.asp
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