Amice 04.19.2023: The Amice is a vestment worn by a Catholic priest under his formal vestments. It is an oblong piece of white linen that is worn around the neck and shoulders. Originally, the purpose of the Amice was as a neckcloth to protect the valuable chasuble and stole. The Amice is also considered an armor or "helm of salvation." While putting it on, the priest says, "Lord, give me strength to conquer temptations." May we all have such strength.
Favor 04.18.2023: In today's reading (Acts of the Apostles 4), we hear that the earliest Christian believers shared to help each other and found favor with the Lord: "The community of believers was of one heart and mind, and no one claimed that any of his possessions was his own, but they had everything in common. With great power the Apostles bore witness to the resurrection of the Lord Jesus, and great favor was accorded them all." May we also take care of each other and find favor with the Lord.
Maria 04.17.2023: Since yesterday was Divine Mercy Sunday, it's fitting to recognize Saint Maria Faustina Kowalska (1905-1938) from Poland who is know as the “Secretary” of Divine Mercy. A religious in the Congregation of the Sisters of Our Lady of Mercy, St. Maria Faustina received a great revelation from Jesus in 1931. She saw Jesus clothed in a white garment, with one hand raised in a gesture of blessing. Two large rays streamed from His breast: one red, the other pale. She heard His divine voice, ordering her to have a picture painted according to the pattern, with the inscription: “Jesus, I trust in You.” The pale ray stands for the Water which makes souls righteous. The red ray stands for the Blood which is the life of souls.” Our Lord asked her to have the picture solemnly blessed on the Sunday after Easter, which has been instituted as the Feast of Mercy--the day to especially remember Christ's great mercy.
Added 04.16.2023: On this Divine Mercy Sunday, we are encouraged by the possibilities of our Faith. If we are repentant of our sins and embrace the Gospel teachings, then may we experience life in similar ways to early day disciples, as described in Acts of the Apostles 2: "Every day they devoted themselves to meeting together in the temple area and to breaking bread in their homes. They ate their meals with exultation and sincerity of heart, praising God and enjoying favor with all the people. And every day the Lord added to their number those who were being saved." What a wonderful world this can be! Amen.
Great 04.15.2023: In today's Gospel (Mark 16), we hear what is known as the Great Commission of Christ. "As the Eleven were at table, Jesus appeared to them and rebuked them for their unbelief and hardness of heart because they had not believed those who saw him after he had been raised. He said to them, 'Go into the whole world and proclaim the Gospel to every creature.'" As the hymn goes, "How great thou art," and may we spread His good news.
Saved 04.14.2023: In today's First Reading (Acts 4), Peter speaks one of the most important claims of the Bible. "Then Peter, filled with the Holy Spirit, answered them, 'Leaders of the people and elders: all of you and all the people of Israel should know that it was in the name of Jesus Christ the Nazorean whom you crucified, whom God raised from the dead; in his name this man stands before you healed. He is the stone rejected by you, the builders, which has become the cornerstone. There is no salvation through anyone else, nor is there any other name under heaven given to the human race by which we are to be saved.'" Amen.
Abode 04.13.2023: Where did Christ descend during the 3 days before his resurrection? The Catechism of the Catholic Church (No. 633) "Scripture calls the abode of the dead, to which the dead Christ went down, "hell"-Sheol-- in Hebrew or Hades in Greek-because those there were deprived of the vision of God." In early Christianity, hell had two meanings. It was, on the one hand, the place of the damned who had fundamentally rejected all that is good and condemned themselves to an eternity without God. On the other hand, it had a more neutral meaning as the place where the just who lived before Christ went to await salvation. Jesus went down to the abode of the dead as Savior, opening the gates of Heaven to the righteous imprisoned there.
Break 04.12.2023: In today's Gospel (Luke 24), we learn that the first 2 disciples to see Jesus after His resurrection came to recognize Jesus during the "breaking of the bread." This was the first Mass after the resurrection where Jesus explains Scripture (just like our Liturgy of the Word) and then nourishes with the breaking of the bread (just like our Liturgy of the Eucharist). From Luke 24: "And it happened that, while he [Jesus] was with them at table, he took bread, said the blessing, broke it, and gave it to them. With that their eyes were opened and they recognized Him, but he vanished from their sight. Then they said to each other, 'Were not our hearts burning within us while he spoke to us on the way and opened the Scriptures to us?' They told the other Eleven 'how Jesus was made known to them in the breaking of the bread.'" Similarly, may our hearts and minds also be illuminated by Christ during the "breaking of the bread" at Mass.
Tunic 04.11.2023: The Seemless Tunic of Jesus Christ was mentioned in John 19:23: "When the soldiers had crucified Jesus, they took his clothes and divided them into four shares, a share for each soldier. They also took his tunic, but the tunic was seamless, woven in one piece from the top down. So they said to one another, 'Let’s not tear it, but cast lots for it to see whose it will be.'" The tunic, also known as the "Holy Robe" is still around today, last being on display in 2012 in Trier, Germany's oldest city. That year marked the 500th anniversary of the first Holy Robe pilgrimage. In 1512, Holy Roman Emperor Maximilian I removed the tunic from the high altar, where it had been hidden for centuries, for Pilgrims to see. The Seamless Tunic signifies the indivisible Kingdom of Christ.
Hymns 04.10.2023: The Catholic community sings hymns as an exercise of praise to God and as a demonstration of the collective harmony we can achieve together. Yesterday at Easter Mass, we sang with such joy, especially hymns such as: "Jesus Christ has Risen Today." With the words "Hymns of praise then let us sing, Alleluia! Unto Christ, our heavenly king, Alleluia! Who endured the cross and grave, Alleluia! Sinners to redeem and save. Alleluia!" The Catholic saying is that you can't have Easter Sunday (all things goods) without Good Friday (the sacrificial love that makes good things possible). In any case, its always joyous when the Easter Sundays arrive, and we celebrate together. Alleluia!
Risen 04.09.2023: He's back!!! It's Easter and our Lord & Savior Jesus Christ has risen!! Scriptures were fulfilled. Our Savior opened the gates of Heaven. Thank you, O Lord. Alleluia! Alleluia!
Vigil 04.08.2023: Holy Saturday celebrates the 40-hour-long vigil that the followers of Jesus Christ held after his death and burial on Good Friday and before his resurrection on Easter Sunday. Jesus's followers and Blessed Mary held a vigil for him outside his tomb, awaiting his foretold resurrection. Easter Vigil Mass is an amazing experience, starting after sundown by an outside firepit and processing into the Church with lit candles. As Catholics, we keep our ongoing vigil watch, keeping our souls ready for when Christ will come again.
Truth 04.07.2023: What is truth? Jesus said in today's Gospel (John 18): “'My kingdom does not belong to this world.' So Pilate said to him, 'Then you are a king?' Jesus answered, 'You say I am a king. For this I was born and for this I came into the world, to testify to the truth. Everyone who belongs to the truth listens to my voice.' Pilate said to him, 'What is truth?'" Pilate didn't understand that the Truth is Jesus Christ and everything He teaches, including the final judgement and eternal life. May we believe the Truth of Christ. Amen.
Sword 04.06.2023: What did Jesus tell us not to live by? In John 26:51-52, when Jesus was being arrested on the night of Holy Thursday: "one of those who accompanied Jesus put his hand to his sword, drew it, and struck the high priest’s servant, cutting off his ear. Then Jesus said to him, 'Put your sword back into its sheath, for all who live by the sword shall die by the sword.'" Jesus demonstrated to us that sin and death do not have the final word; instead, He conquered vice/sin with virtue/love. An important point of this Holy Week.
Crows 04.05.2023: In yesterday's Gospel (John 13:38), Jesus said to Peter at the Last Supper: "Very truly I say to you, before the cock crows, you will disown me three times!" Jesus gave Peter this alarm bell to wake him in his Faith, knowing that Peter would not have the courage to defend Jesus during the early hours of Good Friday. What is the rooster crowing in each of our own lives? What serves as the alarm bell if our Faith in Christ is shaken? Perhaps we need a trusted friend or a spiritual advisor or truly honest personal examination of conscience, etc to serve as our crow. Whatever crows in our lives we need, let these be a reminder to regain our strength in our Faith even if we slip, like Peter.
Early 04.04.2023: Sometimes it may be tempting to leave Mass early, especially after Communion. However, many Catholic Churches have a sign in the back of church reminding us: "Judas left early." In fact, in today's Gospel (John 13:30), we hear about the early departure of Judas at the first Mass during the Last Supper. "So Jesus dipped the morsel and handed it to Judas, son of Simon the Iscariot. So Judas took the morsel and left at once. And it was night." This is a reminder that the world can wait. Let's spend time with Christ by coming early to Mass, staying late in prayer, and not leaving early like Judas.
Human 04.03.2023: In yesterday's reading (Philippians 2), Jesus taught us about humility, charity, and acceptance of God's Will. "Christ Jesus, though he was in the form of God did not regard equality with God something to be grasped. Rather, he emptied himself, taking the form of a slave, coming in human likeness; and found human in appearance, he humbled himself, becoming obedient to the point of death, even death on a cross. Because of this, God greatly exalted Him." May we finished out the holiest of weeks with this same mindset. Amen.
Upper 04.02.2023: The Upper Room in Jerusalem “is the most important room in Christendom.” The Upper Room is where Jesus held the Last Supper with his Apostles and instituted the sacraments of the Eucharist and Holy Orders. In that room, Jesus washed the feet of the Apostles, offering a loving example of service for his disciples to follow. Also, it was the place where on the first Easter Sunday night, the risen Christ appeared to the Apostles and instituted the Sacrament of Penance. In the Upper Room at Pentecost, the outpouring of the Holy Spirit came upon Mary, the Apostles and disciples, on the day now recognized as the birthdate of the Catholic Church and its evangelical mission. Jesus’s frightened followers huddled in that Upper Room, were emboldened by the power of the Holy Spirit to open the doors and go forth to spread Christ’s Good News to the world.
Known 04.01.2023: In life, often times what is known can be comforting because it is familiar. It's the unknown that may drive our fears. Its during these times of the unknown, that we especially must put our faith in God's Will. As Acts 2:28 reminds us: "Lord, You made known to me the ways of life. You will make me full of gladness with your presence." Amen.
Align 03.31.2023: This week we can see five planets align in the evening sky: Venus, Uranus, Jupiter, Mercury, and Mars. Interesting...but not fulfilling. At Mass, we learn what happens when we align ourselves with the Lord and His teachings (Psalm 18): "I love you, O LORD, my strength, O LORD, my rock, my fortress, my deliverer. In my distress I called upon the Lord, and he heard my voice. My God, my rock of refuge, my shield, the horn of my salvation, my stronghold! Praised be the LORD, I exclaim, and I am safe." Amen.
Spoke 03.30.2023: Today's 1st Reading (Genesis 17:3) says: "When Abram prostrated himself, God spoke to him: 'My covenant with you is this: you are to become the father of a host of nations.'" How does God speak to us? God's voice may come in the quiet of our thoughts, or during our prayers. God's Will may be revealed through important decisions that others make for key turning points in our lives. God may speak through Scripture or through other peoples' voices. God may speak when we're doing charitable acts or forgiving others. God can speak to us in many ways. The most important part is that we listen for God, and "if today you hear His voice,harden not your hearts" (no matter what He says to us).
Crypt 03.29.2023: Before the existence of crypto currency, there was the crypt: a stone chamber or vault, usually beneath the floor of a church or cathedral. It was used as a chapel or burial vault, possibly containing coffins or relics of people such as as saints or bishops or popes. Crypts can connect us spiritually to earlier century Christians who worshiped God underground in the catacombs and those entrusting to God the remains of their beloved dead. This tradition in the Catholic Church is another way of connecting to the community of saints.
Needs 03.28.2023: We each have needs. At different times. Of varying amounts. So how do we help each other with needs? Ephesians 4:29 helps us with inspiring words: "Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen." Let's help each other however we can.
Glory 03.27.2023: Yesterday's Gospel (John 11:41) contains one of the more inspiring verses of the entire New Testaments when Jesus said to Martha, “Did I not tell you that if you believe you will see the glory of God?" There it is, if we believe and are absolved from our sins, then Christ gives us confidence that one day we will see God's glory. Amen.
Never 03.26.2023: Usually we want to refrain from using the negative words like never in what we say or do. However, in today’s Gospel when Jesus uses “never,” it is used in a beautiful way. In John 11, Jesus said to Martha, “I am the resurrection and the life; whoever believes in me, even if he dies, will live, and everyone who lives and believes in me will never die. Do you believe this?” Martha replied to Jesus, “Yes, Lord. I have come to believe that you are the Christ, the Son of God.” And so Lazarus lived. And so we pray the same words of Martha.
Reach 03.25.2023: Jesus asked us to stretch ourselves to reach out to others, especially those in need who cannot repay us. In Luke 14, He said: “But when you give a feast, invite the poor, the crippled, the lame, the blind, and you will be blessed, because they cannot repay you. For you will be repaid at the resurrection of the just.” Therefore, shall we reach out to people, reach out to the poor, reach out to the world, reach out to those who need our love and forgiveness, reach out to those who just need our time and care. Never stop reaching and may God's Grace reach us often.
Hands 03.24.2023: Jesus said on the cross: “Father, into your hands I commit my spirit” (Luke 23:46). How do we put our fate in God's hands? Trusting God in everything is easier said than done. As proactive people who want to utilize our gifts and talents to impact things, we sometimes worry or try to influence too much what our fate or outcome will be. We can do all we can, but often life can be uncertain no matter what we do. Sometimes things are completely out of our control. But as a popular saying goes: let go and let God. It’s an acknowledgment that we no longer belong to ourselves but ultimately to God. With God, we're in safe hands. :)
Drome 03.23.2023: Drome is a Greek word for racetrack. Palindrome means when words or numbers/dates can be read the same way backward and forward. We are in a 10-day palindrome from 3-20-23 to 3-29-23. In some cultures, palindrome days are considered lucky because of the symmetrical, 2-way back and forth flow nature of things, such as a couple's love. St. Thomas Aquinas said, “Abba (a word palindrome) displays how the Father loves both himself and the Son by a single love (and vice versa).” We, as members of Christ’s Body, live within this palindrome of receiving God’s love and mercy, and passing it on to others. They are called to receive that love and mercy and return them to us. This is the symbiotic community of love that God inspires in each of us.
David 03.22.2023: David, King of Israel, is one of the most important persons in the Bible. In this week's readings (1 Samuel 16: 13): "The LORD said to Samuel, 'There—anoint him [David], for this is the one!' Then Samuel, with the horn of oil in hand, anointed David in the presence of his brothers; and from that day on, the spirit of the LORD rushed upon David.'" David started out as a simple shepherd boy, then became the slayer of Goliath, writer of the Psalms, ambitious king, repentant sinner (his sin with Bathsheba), and founder of the House of David, from which Jesus descended through Joseph. Luke 1: 31-33: The angel said to Mary: "Behold, you will bear a son and shall name him Jesus. He will be great and will be called Son of the Most High, and the Lord God will give him the throne of David his father, and he will rule over the house of Jacob forever, and of his kingdom there will be no end.”
Looks 03.21.2023: In Sunday's reading (1 Samuel 16:7), we hear how the Lord looks into our hearts to understand us. This is very comforting to know because its not easy to know how to best communicate to God through prayers. "But the LORD said to Samuel: 'Do not judge from his appearance or from his lofty stature. Not as man sees does God see, because man sees appearances, but the LORD looks into the heart.'" This is how the Lord chose David, who in turn understood God's vision, and prayed (Psalm 51:10): "Create in me a clean heart, O God, and renew a right spirit within me." Those are important words by which to pray and live. Amen.
Groom 03.20.2023: Today is the 1 Year Anniversary of CatholicWordle! (Yay! 😊). Today is also the Solemnity of Saint Joseph, groom and spouse of the Blessed Virgin Mary. Although we know Joseph as a working carpenter, he was descended from royal lineage, the line of David, making his foster-son Jesus from the House of David. The Bible pays Joseph the highest compliment saying he was a “just” man, meaning Joseph was completely open to all that God wanted to do for him, manifesting in the depth of the love he shared with Mary during their marriage. Joseph was protector and leader of his holy family, a model for every family. St. Joseph, pray for us.
Blind 03.19.2023: In today's Gospel (John 9), Jesus helps the blind man to see, just as Jesus helps each of us to see. As Jesus passed by he saw a man blind from birth. "His disciples asked him, 'Rabbi, who sinned, this man or his parents, that he was born blind?' Jesus answered, 'Neither he nor his parents sinned; it is so that the works of God might be made visible through him. We have to do the works of the one who sent me while it is day. While I am in the world, I am the light of the world." May Jesus open each of our eyes, when we are blind to the ways of the Lord, that we may see His Goodness.
Cyril 03.18.2023: Saint Cyril of Jerusalem, (315 to March 18, 386 A.D.), was the bishop of Jerusalem and later named Doctor of the Church. He developed the “holy city” of Jerusalem as a pilgrimage center for all Christendom. Throughout the history of the Church, political divisions and persecution of the orthodox defenders of the faith have often occurred. Some persevered, remained faithful, never despaired, and continued to spread the true Faith of the Church, given to Her by Christ. Saint Cyril was one of those shining examples.
Patty 03.17.2023: Happy St. Patty's Day. St. Patrick (389-461 A.D.) brought Catholicism to Ireland. For that, we celebrate him today as the patron Saint of Ireland. St. Patrick was from area of Britain. At age 16, he was kidnapped and taken to what is now Ireland, to be a slave for 6 years. But something strange and wonderful happened in Ireland. All alone, frightened for his life, and among people who worshiped trees and stones, Patrick opened his heart to God. He eventually escaped to France to study in a monastery, God called him back to Ireland as a Bishop to spread Catholicism. Patrick’s most famous prayer shows us how close he was to God; it’s called “St. Patrick’s Breastplate" of armor: "Christ with me, Christ before me; Christ behind me, Christ within me; Christ beneath me, Christ above me; Christ at my right, Christ at my left." Amen.
Lucky 03.16.2023: With St. Patrick's Day approaching, there are many expressions about the luck of the Irish. However, let's think of this a different way. Its better to be Blessed than to be lucky. All good things come from our Lord and from following His Way. Amen.
Short 03.15.2023: There's an old Catholic saying: "Life is short, but eternity is long. Live life in the light of eternity!" Amen. Let's live each day to the fullest, while seeking our fullness in the Faith in Christ for now and forever.
Young 03.14.2023: It doesn't matter if you're turning age 19 or 92 today; your faith can make you young. Being centered in Christ is energizing and joyful. Begin with the beautiful which leads to the good which leads to the Truth. Use your freedom for faith that make the achievement of good in everything you do. Always live a life to be proud of. Seek things you're good at because these are gifts from God. Then dedicate your talents to love and to benefit the world.
March 03.13.2023: This week kicks off March Madness in college basketball. But amidst the "madness," its comforting to hear that a highlight in recent years has been Sister Jean of Loyola Chicago. At 103 years old, Sister Jean just wrote a book about her life and Catholic Faith called "Wake up with Purpose." She summarizes it as encouraging everyone to worship, work, and win. She wakes up each day to have a good day trusting in God, starting with her morning prayers, morning Mass, and goals for each day. Her true passion remains being a servant of God who has devoted a century to helping others. “I love working with these young people,” she says. “I think that's what kept my heart young all these years.” An inspiration to many!
Drink 03.12.2023: In today's Gospel at Mass (John 4:5-42), Jesus said to the Samarian woman at the well, “Everyone who drinks this water will be thirsty again; but whoever drinks the water I shall give will never thirst; the water I shall give will become in him a spring of water welling up to eternal life.” Instead of us trying to satisfy ourselves from the wells of the world, Jesus gives us the water of Divine Grace to drink that never leaves us dry. Stay thirsty for the Lord, my friends.
Edict 03.11.2023: The Edict of Milan in 313A.D. was a summit meeting of the two Roman emperors—Constantine ruling the West and Licinius the East. Their agreement granted religious freedom to all inhabitants of the Roman Empire, no matter what their religious preference was. It marked the Roman Empire’s end of persecution of Christians. The transition to the era of the “Christian Empire” began. These actions, Constantine and Licinius concluded, would ensure that “the Divine favor toward us, which we have already experienced in so many affairs, shall continue for all time to give us prosperity and success, together with happiness for the state.”
Trout 03.10.2023: Trout, salmon, tuna, sardines, cod, tilapia, bass, catfish, shrimp, snapper, swordfish, haddock, halibut, and so forth. So many good choices. Today is Friday during Lent, and the Catholic way is to forego meats and instead to eat fish. Let's each display our Jesus fish and accept this challenge as a small token of abstinence. As the old expression goes: "Holy Mackerel!" 😊
Bliss 03.09.2023: Bliss is the state of complete happiness or joy. Heaven is called eternal bliss. What did Jesus say about this (John 15:9-11). "As the Father loves me, so I also love you. Remain in my love. If you keep my commandments, you will remain in my love, just as I have kept my Father’s commandments and remain in His love. I have told you this so that my joy may be in you and your joy may be complete." May we orient our lives towards the bliss that the Lord alone can give us, deep in our souls.
Title 03.08.2023: In today's Gospel (Matthew 20:17-28), its very interesting how the mother of two Apostles (James and John) asked Jesus to give her sons great titles and caused all the Apostles to clamor for status; she said to Jesus, “Command that these two sons of mine sit, one at your right and the other at your left, in your kingdom.” Jesus said in reply, "You do not know what you are asking....Rather, whoever wishes to be great among you shall be your servant...just so, the Son of Man did not come to be served but to serve." Jesus instructed us not to be fixated on worldly status and titles, but instead to serve others.
Clear 03.07.2023: For Lent, how do we know if we have a clear conscience? According to the Catechism (1776-1788, 1799-1800): The righteous and truthful conscience is formed with education, with the assimilation of the Word of God and the teachings of the Church. It is assisted by the gifts of the Holy Spirit and aided by the advice of prudent people. In addition, moral formation is greatly encouraged by both prayer and conscience’s examination. Moral conscience is a judgment of the reason driving a person to do well and to avoid evil. Hearing the moral conscience, the prudent person can feel the voice of God speaking to him. In the end, Confession and a contrite heart can clear one's conscience.
Abram 03.06.2023: In Hebrew, the name Abram means "exalted father," whereas the name Abraham means "father of a multitude." That explains why God changed Abram's name. In yesterday's First Reading (Genesis 12:1-3), The LORD said to Abram: "Go forth from the land of your kinsfolk and from your father's house to a land that I will show you. I will make of you a great nation, and I will bless you; I will make your name great, so that you will be a blessing." In accepting His calling from God, Abraham became "our father in faith" as is prayed during the Eucharistic Prayer at Mass.
White 03.05.2023: In today's Gospel, the Transfiguration event is significant in Jesus' life because it confirms Jesus' divinity and demonstrates how He fulfills the Old Testament scriptures. The Transfiguration shows forth humanity in the splendor of its original form when it was united in the life-giving love of God. (Matthew 17:1-9) "Jesus took Peter, James, and John his brother, and led them up a high mountain by themselves. And he was transfigured before them; his face shone like the sun and his clothes became white as light. And behold, Moses and Elijah appeared to them, conversing with him." Amen and may His light shine on us.
Tiara 03.04.2023: From the 8th century, popes wore the papal tiara (a crown headpiece) at the day of their coronation as they began their pontificate, as well as for other solemn official ceremonies. Pope Paul VI was the last pope to use a tiara at his coronation because he subsequently donated it and introduced the use of a simple miter. He gave the tiara to the poor people of the world. He placed it on an altar as a picture of the “renunciation of human glory and power” and as “the new spirit of the Church purified.” The tiara went on tour to raise funds for the poor, before coming to the Basilica, where it is displayed today.
Thorn 03.03.2023: Signifying sorrow, hardship or suffering, the thorn is one of the most ancient symbols. It is an emblem of Christ's passion, as with the crown of thorns. One of the toughest things in life is suffering without meaning; however, just like Christ's suffering had great meaning, if we join our suffering with the redemptive suffering of Christ then it becomes transformative. Our suffering helps use to better understand Christ who endured suffering for others' sins. Jesus said to his disciples (Matthew 16:24), “Whoever wishes to follow me must deny himself, take up his cross, and follow me."
Seeks 03.02.2023: In today's Gospel, Jesus said to his disciples (Matthew 7:7-12): "Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you. For everyone who asks, receives; and the one who seeks, finds; and to the one who knocks, the door will be opened. How much more will your heavenly Father give good things to those who ask him." May we seek the Lord in our everyday lives with all our hearts and find out all the good things that will result from this mindset.
Jonah 03.01.2023: Today's First Reading is from the Book of Jonah, the prophet. Jonah is a disobedient prophet who rejected his divine commission, was cast overboard in a storm and swallowed by a great fish, was rescued and then repented. He then obeyed and goes to Nineveh, the capital of Israel’s ancient enemy, to share his story of repentance. We might feel we have failed in following the Will of God. If so, then the message of Jonah is: don’t give up, don’t lose hope. God has not given up on His Plan for us. In the end, we might find our obstacles will be turned upside down by God’s grace and become the very source of fulfilling our calling (but hopefully not having to be swallowed by a whale!😊
Agree 02.28.2023: In our country today, there is a tendency to be argumentative and angry toward each other, especially those who do not agree 100% with one's worldview. How about for Lent we try to be more agreeable, or at least agree to disagree in peace? Good debates are fine, but chronic strife can lead to far worse. In today's Gospel, Jesus says (Matthew 6:15): "If you forgive men their transgressions, your heavenly Father will forgive you. But if you do not forgive men, neither will your Father forgive your transgressions." So let's try to forgive, agree, and make peace. Its the Heavenly Way.
Trial 02.27.2023: “For if our heart condemn us, God is greater than our heart, and knows all things” (1 John 3:20). Jesus was sent many a trial when he was fasting in the desert. When we are sent a trial, there is a tendency to turn to negativity, anger, or sadness. Instead, this lent may we see our vulnerabilities as times to turn in humility to God. With humility of heart filled with trust in the goodness of God, we can take in the grace of Christ and find true rest for our souls in the midst of trial.
Forty 02.26.2023: The number forty is used many times in the Bible to express a completeness. For example, forty days/nights of rain during the flood, Moses lived forty years in Egypt, and Jesus fasted in the desert forty days in today's Gospel for the first Sunday of Lent. Why did Jesus need to fast forty days and then be tempted three times? To show us that despite being made humanly vulnerable through fasting, He did not give in to the temptations of evil who offered him all the pleasures, power, and self-ego. Instead, Matthew 4:1-11, Jesus taught us to keep our lives centered around God and then our lives will be complete: "One does not live on bread alone but on every word that comes forth from the mouth of God."
Tithe 02.25.2023: The Catholic Church encourages each person to support the Church with time, talent, and/or treasure, but doesn't specify what percent of income should be given. Tithe was an Old Testament obligation incumbent under the Law of Moses; at that time, tithing was ten percent of incomes. However, 1 Corinthians 16:2 says, “On the first day of the week each of you should set aside whatever he can afford." The Church teaches that God doesn’t demand a fixed amount of money from us; He wants us to give from the heart with a generous heart.
Culpa 02.24.2023: Mea culpa means "through my fault" in Latin, comes from the Confiteor part of the Catholic Latin Mass where sinners acknowledge their failings before God. Said by itself, it's an exclamation of apology or remorse that is used to mean "It was my fault" or "I apologize." An important part of improving our weaknesses is to first recognize we have them. May we all seek ways to improve this Lent.
Whole 02.23.2023: In yesterday's 1st Reading, Jesus said, "Return to me with your whole heart...and return to the LORD, your God.." That sounds like a good goal for Lent. We are born in the image and likeness God and then things happen as life happens. Returning to the Lord with purity of heart like a child requires putting aside all the stuff that life has dealt us. Therefore, may our preoccupations not get in the way of trusting Christ wholeheartedly this Lent and thereafter.
Ashes 02.22.2023: Today is Ash Wednesday: the first day of Lent which lasts for 40 days (not including Sundays). The same number of days that Jesus spent in the desert where he fasted and was tempted. At Mass today, we'll received ashes on our foreheads that symbolize our mortality and thus our ongoing need for repentance and redemption by Christ's Passion for our hope of eternal life. Let's wear our ashes all day and commence a fulfilling Lenten season of prayer, fasting, and almsgiving. The USCCB advises that during Lent: "we seek the Lord in prayer by reading Sacred Scripture; we serve by giving alms; and we practice self-control through fasting."
Mardi 02.21.2023: Mardi Gras (which means “Fat Tuesday” in French) is the day before Ash Wednesday, marking the beginning of Lent--a time of fasting. In medieval times for Catholic Countries, such as French, Mardi Gras was a last day to consume rich food and drink that could not be eaten again until Easter. Its purpose is not revelry, but a day to set goals for the next 40 days of how one will detach oneself from earthly things as Jesus did and deepen one's Faith in the process. May we each spend the next 40 days transforming ourselves alongside Jesus by following His Way.
Burse 02.20.2023: A burse is the stiff pocket about twelve inch square in which the folded corporal is carried to and from the altar. It is considered part of a set of vestments and is made of matching material to the vestments. It is placed upon the chalice at the beginning and end of Mass and on the altar at Benediction. It contains the pyx in which the Holy Eucharist is brought to the sick. Like most things with the Mass, this is a consistent object used throughout the world for the universal Catholic Church.
Tooth 02.19.2023: In today's Gospel (Matthew 5:38-48) Jesus showed us how to break the endless cycle of resentment and retaliation and become true children of God. He said to his disciples: "You have heard that it was said, 'An eye for an eye and a tooth for a tooth.' But I say to you, when someone strikes you on your right cheek, turn the other one as well. You have heard that it was said, 'You shall love your neighbor and hate your enemy.' But I say to you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, that you may be children of your heavenly Father." So lets keep our eyes and teeth by living in peace to bring the Kingdom of Heaven to earth. 😊
Hoped 02.18.2023: From today's 1st reading (Hebrew 11:1-7), "Faith is the realization of what is hoped for and evidence of things not seen. By faith we understand that the universe was ordered by the word of God, so that what is visible came into being through the invisible." Faith is a beautiful thing because sometimes in life when our logic might say that the probability for hope is miniscule, faith can encourage us to not lose hope and not relay on what could be misguided calculations. The three theological virtues--faith, hope, love--give life to all the moral virtues and are transmitted by God in the souls of the faithful, in order to let us act as His sons and deserve Eternal Life. Amen.
Pence 02.17.2023: The Peter’s Pence by the Church is a global collection of donations to support the activity of the Pope as Pastor of the universal Church. The faithful’s gifts to the Peter’s Pence Collection are destined for Church needs, to humanitarian initiatives, and support of the Roman Curia and Vatican embassies around the world. The collection for the fund occurs each year around June 29, the feast of Sts. Peter and Paul.
Vicar 02.16.2023: The word vicar, from the Latin word vicarius, meaning substitute, is someone acting in some special way for a superior. In the Catholic Church, “vicar of Christ” became the title of popes starting in the 8th century, and who are also called “the vicar of St. Peter.” In addition, a parochial vicar is a priest assigned to a parish to assist the parish priest. Either way, the vicar has a critical duty to "feed the sheep" as Christ said.
Paten 02.15.2023: A Communion paten is a small plate that is held by an altar server under each person's chin or hands during the distribution of Holy Communion. This ensures that the host, or particles of the host, do not fall to the ground, thereby treating the host with the reverence it deserves. Catholics believe that the Eucharist is the actual body of Christ and, therefore, safeguard every particle of the Eucharist. At the end of distributing Communion, the priest wipes clean the paten(s) and consumes any of the precious particles.
Cupid 02.14.2023: Cupid comes from Roman mythology and was believed to be the son of Venus, the goddess of love. Along with hearts, Cupid is often a modern symbol of love on Valentine’s Day. This worldly interpretation of love falls short of Christ on the cross, the true symbol of love. St. Thomas Aquinas defined Christian love as "willing the good of another without expectations of anything in return." Therefore, lets look to St. Valentine on this St. Valentine's day. Valentine lived in Rome during the 3rd century. He was a priest imprisoned for marrying Christian couples and aiding Christians being persecuted by Emperor Claudius; he later was martyred for his refusal to renounce his Christian faith. St. Valentine, pray for us and our loving relationships.
Penny 02.13.2023: In yesterday's Gospel, Jesus instructed us to make peace wherever we have conflicts, even the smallest conflicts. He said (Matthew 5: 17-37) , "Settle with your opponent quickly while on the way to court. Otherwise your opponent will hand you over to the judge, and the judge will hand you over to the guard, and you will be thrown into prison. Amen, I say to you, you will not be released until you have paid the last penny." Our judge is ultimately God who will only "forgive us our trespasses if we forgive those who trespass against us." Peace be with you.
Super 02.12.2023: Yes, today in the sports world its super bowl Sunday. May it be a fun day to reunite with friends and family. As we attend Mass, may we remember something else super. When we pray the Lord's Prayer saying "give us this day our daily bread," we are not just asking for daily food. This bread we seek is translated as the "super-substantial" bread of Jesus--the Bread of Life for eternity. In today's Gospel, Jesus said to his disciples (Matthew 5:17), "Do not think that I have come to abolish the law or the prophets. I have come not to abolish but to fulfill it." In fulfilling the law, Jesus gave us His super-substantial bread of the Eucharist to nourish our souls for our supernatural eternity. How super this is!
Kicks 02.11.2023: Go back two weeks ago, Kansas City Chiefs kicker Harrison Butker kicks the game winning field goal on the last play of the game, sending his team to the Super Bowl. As one of sports' most high profile Catholics, Butker had photos of himself attending Mass all over media. He has not shied away from sharing his faith in interviews, using his popularity to defend the Latin Mass. According to Catholic News Agency, Butker said: “My success in football has given me a pedestal and I feel a responsibility to raise awareness to different issues that I think God wants me to bring to the forefront. And the Traditional Latin Mass is definitely one of them." May he do well on Sunday and continue to inspire more people to join the Catholic Faith!
Bonum 02.10.2023: Bonum is a Latin word meaning "all things good." Many people will sign off their emails, texts, letters, or conversations with "Pax et bonum" which is latin for "Peace and all things good." This is a spiritually deep and cheery way to leave any conversation!
Ninth 02.09.2023: Keep praying through the ninth. The word “novena” comes from the Latin word “novem” which means nine. Thus, novenas always include nine of something, such as months, weeks, days, hours or just the same prayer repeated nine times. Novenas started when Jesus told His disciples to pray together after His ascension into heaven, so the apostles and Mary gathered to pray in the Upper Room during the nine days between the Ascension and Pentecost. When we pray a novena, we focus on a specific intention in order to receive special Graces. We take on Jesus’ attitude in Gethsemane the night before He died. “Father, not My will but Yours be done” (Luke 22:42).
Summa 02.08.2023: There may be no better overview of Catholic theology than the "Summa Theologica" written by St. Thomas Aquinas (1225-1274), Doctor of the Church. Aquinas applied Aristotle's philosophy to Catholic Theology. It has three parts: Part 1 covers the nature of God, creation, angels, man, and divine sovereignty. Part 2 explains ethics, habits, law, faith, wisdom, self-control, morality, prophecy, miracles, and the contemplative life. Part 3 describes Christ's incarnation, life, death, and resurrection, while also instructing on the need for sacraments for the remission of sins. At over 3,000 pages, its quite full, just like the fullness of the Faith. 😊
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Jesus 3.20.22: Long before wordle, "The Word" became flesh and dwelt among us. The founder of the Church, Jesus is God incarnate, meaning He was both fully true God and true man. He is the Way, the Truth, and the Life. No one can come to God the Father, except through Jesus. Let's maintain our daily relationship with Jesus; we'll be glad we did 😊.
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