Thursday of the Fourth Week of Lent

Year of the Family "Amoris Laetitia The Joy of Love"

Readings of the Day

Rule of Saint Benedict: Ch 49 The Observance of Lent

Mass: Ex 32:7-14; Resp Ps 106; Jn 5:31-47

Remember us, O Lord, as you favor your people. 

MARY, QUEEN OF PEACE,

PRAY FOR US.

"This is the way; walk in it," when you would turn to the right or to the left. And you shall consider unclean your silver plated idols and your gold covered images. You shall throw them away like filthy rags to which you say, "Begone!"

(Is 30:21-22)

Welcome to the last day of March. A bit out of order, I begin with information about today's photo. It brings a smile to my face. This photo, with a few others, came through as a "OneDrive Your memories from this day." It was March 31, 2010, when I was here for Holy Week with the Benedictine Nuns of Kaunas, Lithuania. I studied with one of the sisters in Rome and was invited to spend the week with the community, my first visit to an Eastern European country. What a memorable trip it was. You see here the nuns church, the Church of Saint Nicholaus. I could certainly go on about this trip. For now though, may this photo serve as reminder to pray for the people of Lithuania and all countries in their part of their world, especially Ukraine and Russia. At the same time, united as we are in faith and prayer during this Lenten season, may we not turn aside from the way the Lord points out to us, as did the people the Lord brought out of Egypt (Ex 32:7-8). Good and upright is the Lord, who shows sinners the way, guides the humble rightly, and teaches the humble the way. All the paths of the Lord are faithful love toward those who honor the covenant demands (Ps 25:8-10). Is there one thing you could do today to step back on the path? If needed, that is. 😊

Let each one deny herself some food, drink, sleep, needless talking and idle jesting, and look forward to holy Easter with joy and spiritual longing.

(Rule of Saint Benedict, 49:7)

© Gertrude Feick 2022

Wednesday of the Fourth Week of Lent

Year of the Family "Amoris Laetitia The Joy of Love"

Saint: Saint John Climacus, Abbot (7th Century)

Readings of the Day

Rule of Saint Benedict: Ch 4:22-25 The Daily Manual Labor

Mass: Is 49:8-15; Resp Ps 145; Jn 5:17-30

The Lord is compassionate toward all His works.

MARY, QUEEN OF PEACE,

PRAY FOR US.

In brief for today, remember, as the psalmist sings, that the Lord is gracious and merciful ... He is near to all who call upon Him, to all who call upon Him in truth (Ps 145). Sing out, then, and rejoice, O earth, break forth into song, you mountains. For the Lord comforts His people, and shows mercy to His afflicted (Is 49:13).

God's will is to save us, and nothing pleases Him more than our coming back to Him with true repentance ...

He also taught us in many different ways that we should wish to imitate Him by our own kindness and genuine love for one another.

(From a letter by Saint Maximus the Confessor, abbot, in Office of Readings, Fourth Week of Lent, Wednesday)

SAINT JOHN CLIMACUS,

PRAY FOR US.

Today's photo: This one of a favorite tulip was taken yesterday morning. It greeted me, although it was not quite as awake as the daffodil you saw yesterday. Wake up you sleepy head, go on, get out of bed! 😊

© Gertrude Feick 2022

Tuesday of the Fourth Week of Lent

Year of the Family "Amoris Laetitia The Joy of Love"

Readings of the Day

Rule of Saint Benedict: Ch 48:10-21 The Daily Manual Labor

Mass: Ezk 47:1-9, 12; Resp Ps 46; Jn 5:1-16

The astounding things the Lord has wrought on the earth.

MARY, QUEEN OF PEACE, 

PRAY FOR US.

I have been thinking this morning about the man in today's Gospel; the man who had been ill for 38 years (Jn 5:4), yes, a long time. Some of my reflections have emerged from a little book I am reading by Frederick Buechner, Crazy, Holy Grace: The Healing Power of Pain and Memory (Zondervan, 2017).  We don't know exactly what afflicted this poor fellow for so long. It could have been a physical ailment, or perhaps it was an emotional ailment, such as grief, sorrow, anger or bitterness that was conveniently forgotten, only to be buried deep inside him and that subsequently accumulated year after year. Whatever his illness, he just couldn't manage to get to the healing pool before someone else got ahead of him. So there he was when Jesus appeared. Do you want to be well?, asked the Divine Physician. I wonder what really kept this man on his mat, from taking his place in the healing water. Was it fear of what may happen next? Did he think that it was better just to stay comfortable there and continue to complain that no one would put him in the pool? What is it that keeps us from moving on, or sincerely asking God for help? Jesus is continuously asking each of us if we want to be well. However, we really have to want to be well. In the words of Servant of God Luigi Giussani, "It is essential to accept the help of Jesus Christ offered to us and to collaborate actively with Him." We have to play our part and ask God for the grace to move through our fears and anxieties and get ourselves into those healing waters. We may even have to push and shove to be the first in line! And it is not unlikely that we will need someone else to help us. Once we have done it though, and it may take years, or maybe not, Jesus says: Rise, take up your mat, and walk (Jn 5:8). And just listen to what comes next: "Immediately the man became well, took up his mat, and walked" (Jn 5:9). O God, come to my assistance; O God, make haste to help me.

But I think that the price that one pays by dealing with your pain by forgetting it, by stuffing it aside, by not looking at it, is that some part of you doesn't grow.

(F. Buechner, Crazy, Holy Grace, p. 18)

Today's photo: This little gem greeted me on my first trip to the compost bin this morning. Rise and shine and bring God your glory! What marvelous things the Lord has done, let us rejoice and be glad.

© Gertrude Feick 2022

Monday of the Fourth Week of Lent

Year of the Family "Amoris Laetitia The Joy of Love"

Readings of the Day

Rule of Saint Benedict: Ch 48:1-9 The Daily Manual Labor

Mass: Is 65:17-21; Resp Ps 30; Jn 4:43-54

But with the dawn, rejoicing.

MARY, QUEEN OF PEACE,

PRAY FOR US.

Idleness is the enemy of the soul ... Yet, all things are to be done with moderation on account of the fainthearted.

(Rule of Saint Benedict 48:1, 9)

Welcome to the Monday and the last few days of March. It is true what Jesus says in today's Gospel: Unless you people see signs and wonders, you will not believe (Jn 4:48). Maybe this is a good week to notice the presence of Jesus in the little, ordinary of the everyday; in the subtle, often unnoticed or overlooked beauty in the many things that have become common or taken for granted. Catch a glimpse here; catch a glimpse there. Beauty abounds. We can do this while following Saint Benedict's instructions on the daily manual labor, quoted at the top. While going full pelt, then, each in her own way, take time to pause and reflect. Take notice; be grateful. As the Lord says: There shall always be rejoicing and happiness in what I create (Is 65:18).

The brothers should have specified periods for manual labor as well as for prayerful reading ...

But after Sext and their meal, they may rest on their beds in complete silence ...

when they live by the labor of their hands, as our fathers and the apostles did, then they are really monks.

(RB 48:1, 5, 8)

You are never to walk in darkness; the great and final day is not to enfold you in darkness. Do not let the night and mist of ignorance steal upon you. So that you may always enjoy the light of knowledge, keep always in the daylight of faith, hold fast always to the light of love and peace.

(From a homily on Leviticus by Origen, priest, in Office of Readings, Fourth Week of Lent, Monday)

Today's photo: Droplets of water on this lovely, sent by d in West Linn, OR.

© Gertrude Feick 2022

Fourth Sunday of Lent

Year of the Family "Amoris Laetitia The Joy of Love"

Laetare Sunday

In other years: Saint John of Egypt (304-394) 

Readings of the Day

Rule of Saint Benedict: Ch 47 Announcing the Hours for the Work of God

Mass: Joshua 5:9a, 10-12; Resp Ps 34; 2 Cor 5:17-21; Lk 15:1-3, 11-32

Glorify the Lord with me.

MARY, QUEEN OF PEACE,

PRAY FOR US.

Behold, new things have come.

(2 Cor 5:17)

Welcome to the Fourth Sunday of Lent and Laetare Sunday. Let us go to God's house with rejoicing. 

Browsing through a book quoted before, D. Ladinsky, Love Poems from God: Twelve Sacred Voices from the East and West (Penguin, 2002), I found this in the section on Saint Catherine of Siena (1347-1380), p. 185:

VULNERABLE

Vulnerable we are, like an infant.

We need each other's care

or we will 

suffer.

Our Gospel presents us with various vulnerable and suffering people, who, at one time or another in our lives, are each one of us. In order of appearance, first we have tax collectors and sinners, often despised and cast aside, who are attracted to Jesus, draw near to Him and want to hear what He has to say. Second is Jesus, who is about His Father's business, doing the will of His Father, opening Himself to attack and ridicule. Third are the Pharisees and scribes who complain about Jesus, who are uncomfortable with the ways of Jesus, the Healer who reaches out to those cast aside. Next comes the familiar, maybe too familiar Parable of the Prodigal Son. We have a man, the father of two sons, both of whom he loves. The younger of the two sons wants his share of the estate, now. He wants to go off with "freedom", and as it turns out, squander his inheritance and freely spend it all. However, he finds himself in dire need and owns his mistake, perhaps his betrayal, and seeks his father's forgiveness. What if his father rejects him? Now comes the father, filled with compassion, who welcomes the younger son with open arms, receives him with mercy and forgiveness and plans a party. Now with the older son, angry, resentful, even jealous and envious. The older son is suffering, even though all along, everything the father has was his to share in. Maybe the older son thought he was taken for granted.

This is all speculation on my part. However, the words of Catherine of Siena, loosely translated by Daniel Ladinsky, have confirmed some things. We do need each other's care. We are all vulnerable. We all suffer, saint and sinner alike. United in faith and prayer, we go forth.  

If the Lord God said to you: "I am the truth and the life," in your desire for truth, in your love for life, you would certainly ask Him to show you the way to reach them. You would say to yourself: "Truth is a great reality, life is a great reality; if only it were possible for my soul to find them!"

(From a treatise on John by Saint Augustine, bishop, in Office of Readings, Fourth Sunday of Lent)

SAINT JOHN OF EGYPT,

PRAY FOR US.

Today's photo: Half Dome with sunset light, Yosemite National Park. Spectacular. Thank you, Catherine.

© Gertrude Feick 2022

Saturday of the Third Week of Lent

Year of the Family "Amoris Laetitia The Joy of Love"

Readings of the Day

Rule of Saint Benedict: Ch 46 Faults Committed in Other Matters

Mass: Hosea 6:1-6; Resp Ps 51; Lk 18:9-14

It is mercy I desire, and not sacrifice.

MARY, QUEEN OF PEACE,

PRAY FOR US.

Let us strive to know the Lord.

(Hosea 6:3)

Yesterday, and for some time now, I have been grateful for a prayer given to us by the Church, one that may be used during the Penitential Act at Mass, namely, the Confiteor. It is a powerful prayer, one that penetrates the depths both spiritual and physical. For not only do we pray with words, we have opportunity to strike our breast, just like the tax collector in today's Gospel, the one who would not even raise his eyes to heaven, who beat his breast and prayed, "O God, be merciful to me a sinner" (Lk 18:13). 

I confess to almighty God

and to you, my brothers and sisters,

that I have greatly sinned,

in my thoughts and in my words,

in what I have done and in what I have failed to do,

through my fault, through my fault,

through my most grievous fault;

therefore I ask blessed Mary ever-Virgin,

all the Angels and Saints,

and you, my brothers and sisters,

to pray for me to the Lord our God.

Reach out to the Lord today. Be honest with yourself and with Him. His mercy and forgiveness endure forever. He loves you with an everlasting love. God does not take pleasure in the death of the wicked, but rather in the conversion of the wicked, that she may live (Ezk 33:11). United in faith and prayer, we need the prayers of Mary, Mother of Mercy, all the Angels and Saints, and of each other. We go forth with Laetare Sunday coming soon. God is praised.

Jesus Christ loves you; He gave His life to save you; and now He is living at your side every day to enlighten, strengthen and free you.

(Pope Francis, Evangelii Gaudium The Joy of the Gospel, 164) 

HEART OF JESUS, PATIENT AND MOST MERCIFUL,

HEART OF JESUS, SOURCE OF ALL CONSOLATION,

HEART OF JESUS, OUR PEACE AND RECONCILIATION,

HAVE MERCY ON US.

Today's photo: What a brilliant color, from d in West Linn, OR.

© Gertrude Feick 2022

Solemnity of the Annunciation of the Lord

Year of the Family "Amoris Laetitia The Joy of Love"

Solemn Act of Consecration of Humanity, and Russia and Ukraine in particular, to the Immaculate Heart of Mary

Readings of the Day

Rule of Saint Benedict: Ch 45 Mistakes in the Oratory

Mass: Is 7:10-14; 8:10; Resp Ps 40; Heb 10:4-10; Lk 1:26-38

Here I am, Lord, I come to do your will.

MARY, QUEEN OF PEACE,

PRAY FOR US.

Hail, full of grace! The Lord is with you.

Happy Solemnity of the Annunciation of the Lord. United in faith and prayer, may we listen to the angel Gabriel's words to Mary: Do not be afraid ... nothing will be impossible for God (Lk 1:30, 37), and join Mary in our response: May it be done to me according to your word (Lk 1:38). 

IF YOU WANT

If

you want,

the Virgin will come walking down the road,

pregnant with the holy,

and say,

"I need shelter for the night, please take me inside your heart,

my time is so close."

Then, under the roof of your soul, you will witness the sublime,

intimacy, the divine, the Christ

taking birth

forever,

as she grasps your hand for help, for each of us

is the midwife of God, each of us.

Yes there, under the dome of your being does creation 

come into existence eternally, through your womb, dear pilgrim-

the sacred womb of your soul,

as God grasps our arms for help; for each of us is

His beloved servant

never

far.

If you want, the Virgin will come walking

down the street pregnant

with Light and

sing ...

(In the section on Saint John of the Cross, in Love Poems from God: Twelve Sacred Voices from the East and West, pp. 306-307)

HOLY MOTHER OF GOD,

MOTHER OF DIVINE GRACE,

QUEEN OF ANGELS,

GATE OF HEAVEN,

COMFORT OF THE AFFLICTED,

HEALTH OF THE SICK,

QUEEN OF FAMILIES,

PRAY FOR US.

Today's image: Through the hand of Sister Suzanne, ocso. Hail, full of grace! The Lord is with you.

© Gertrude Feick 2022

Thursday of the Third Week of Lent

Year of the Family "Amoris Laetitia The Joy of Love"

Saint: Saint Marcartan, Bishop (-506) 

Readings of the Day

Rule of Saint Benedict: Ch 44 Satisfaction by the Excommunicated

Mass: Jer 7:23-28; Resp Ps 95; Lk 11:14-23

If today you hear His voice, harden not your hearts.

MARY, QUEEN OF PEACE,

PRAY FOR US.

Listen to my voice; says the Lord, then I will be your God and you shall be my people. Walk in all ways that I command you, so that you may prosper (Jer 7:23). May we open our minds and hearts to the voice of God this day. Prosper the work of our hands! prosper the work of our hands! (Ps 90:17).

Prayer is an offering that belongs to God and is acceptable to Him: it is the offering He has asked for, the offering He planned as His own.

We must dedicate this offering with our whole heart, we must fatten it on faith, tend it by truth, keep it unblemished through innocence and clean through chastity, and crown it with love. We must escort it to the altar of God in a procession of good works to the sounds of psalms and hymns. Then it will gain for us all that we ask of God.

(From the treatise On Prayer by Tertullian, priest, in Office of Readings, Third Week of Lent, Thursday)

We remain united in faith and prayer. Jesus, Crown of Peace, have mercy on us.

IF YOU LOVE

You might quiet the whole world for a second 

if you pray.

And if you love, if you

really love,

our guns will

wilt.

(From the section on Saint John of the Cross, 1542-1591, in Love Poems from God: Twelve Sacred Voices from East and West, p. 317)

SAINT MARCARTAN,

PRAY FOR US.

Today's photo: There are new developments on this beauty everyday.

© Gertrude Feick 2022

Wednesday of the Third Week of Lent

Year of the Family "Amoris Laetitia The Joy of Love"

Saint: Saint Turibius of Mongrovejo, Bishop (15381606)

Readings of the Day

Rule of Saint Benedict: Ch 43:13-19 Tardiness at the Work of God or at Table

Mass: Dt 4:1, 5-9; Resp Ps 147; Mt 5:17-19

Praise the Lord, Jerusalem

MARY, QUEEN OF PEACE,

PRAY FOR US.

You will show me the path of life, the fullness of joy in your presence, O Lord.

(Communion Antiphon, Mass)

Let us pray today for help to keep God's commandments, and the greatest is this: Love the Lord God with your whole heart, your whole soul and all your strength, and love your neighbor as yourself. As the Lord says, "Whoever obeys and teaches these commandments will be called the greatest in the Kingdom of heaven" (Mt 5:19). We remain united in faith and prayer. 

If you say, "Show me your God," I will say to you, "Show me what kind of person you are, and I will show you my God." Show me then whether the eyes of your mind can see, and the ears of your heart hear ...

Hand yourself over to the doctor, and He will open the eyes of your mind and heart. Who is to be the doctor? It is God, who heals and gives life through His word and wisdom. 

(From the book addressed to Autolycus by Saint Theophilus of Antioch, bishop, in Office of Readings, Third Week of Lent, Wednesday)

Your words, Lord, are Spirit and life; you have the words of everlasting life.

(Verse before the Gospel, Mass)

SAINT TURIBIUS OF MONGROVEJO,

PRAY FOR US.

Today's photo: There is plenty of beauty to behold around here. 

© Gertrude Feick 2022

Tuesday of the Third Week of Lent

Year of the Family "Amoris Laetitia The Joy of Love"

Saints: Saint Deogratias (d.457); Saint Nicholas Owen (c.1550-1606)

Readings of the Day

Rule of Saint Benedict: Ch 43:1-12 Tardiness at the Work of God or at Table

Mass:  Dn 3:25, 34-43; Resp Ps 25; Mt 18:21-35

Good and upright is the Lord.

MARY, QUEEN OF PEACE,

PRAY FOR US.

Moved with compassion.

(Mt 18:27)

As it turns out, more than a few thoughts have been circulating this morning. Thankfully, however, a dear brother helped me gather things. He alerted me to a film, Man of God, that he and his wife saw last night. At this time, it is being shown in select theatres, on two nights nationwide. It is about the Eastern Orthodox saint, Nectarios of Aegina, Metropolitan of Pentalopis. I just watched the trailer and there was a line that I took note of that could be a good summary of today's Gospel. Being questioned about his leadership, Nectarios answered, "A healthy balance between kindness and authority is best." The kingdom of heaven may be likened to a king who decided to settle his accounts with his servants (Mt 18:23).

If you hope for mercy, show mercy. If you look for kindness, show kindness. If you want to receive, give. If you ask for yourself what you deny to others, your asking is mockery.

(From a sermon by Saint Peter Chrysologus, bishop, in Office of Readings, Third Week of Lent, Tuesday)

SAINT DEOGRATIAS,

SAINT NICHOLAS OWEN,

PRAY FOR US.

Today's photo: Tulips are a favorite of mine. Tulips bless the Lord.

© Gertrude Feick 2022

Monday of the Third Week of Lent

Year of the Family "Amoris Laetitia The Joy of Love"

Saints: Transitus of our holy father Benedict; Saint Enda (-530)

Readings of the Day

Rule of Saint Benedict: Ch 42 Silence After Compline

Mass: For the Lenten Weekday: 2 Kings 5:1-15ab; Resp Ps 42-43; Lk 4:24-30; For the Transitus: Pv 2:1-9; Resp Ps 16; Eph 6:10-13, 18; Mt 19:27-29

Yearn for everlasting life with holy desire. 

MARY, QUEEN OF PEACE,

PRAY FOR US.

Today is a celebratory day for many who live the monastic way of life and follow the Rule of Saint Benedict, especially Benedictines. It is the commemoration of the Transitus, or Passing of our holy father Benedict. Not only does Benedict instruct us to yearn for everlasting life with holy desire (Rule of Saint Benedict 4:46), he exhorts us to day by day remind ourselves that we are going to die (RB 4:49), aware that God's gaze is upon us, wherever we may be (RB 4:48-49). Let us go forth this day, on our Lenten journey, and as soon as wrongful thoughts come into our heart, may we dash them in Christ and disclose them to our spiritual father; guard our lips from wrongful or deceptive speech; prefer moderation in speech; speak no foolish chatter, nothing just to provoke laughter; and not love immoderate or boisterous laughter (RB 4:50-54). We remain united in faith and prayer, and look forward to holy Easter with joy and spiritual longing (RB 49:7). May Christ bring us all together to everlasting life (RB 72:12).

From Pope Saint Gregory the Great, in Book II of the Dialogues of Saint Gregory the Great, The Life and Miracles of Saint Benedict, Chapter 37: How Venerable Benedict Did Prophesy to His Monks the Time of His Own Death:

Six days before he died, [Benedict] gave orders for this tomb to be opened. Almost immediately he was seized by a violent fever that rapidly wasted his remaining energy. Each day his condition grew worse until finally, on the sixth day, he had his disciples carry him into the chapel where he received the Body and Blood of our Lord to gain strength for his approaching end. Then, supporting his weakened body on the arms of his brethren, he stood with his hands raised to heaven and, as he prayed, breathed his last.

SAINT BENEDICT,

SAINT ENDA,

PRAY FOR US.

Today's image: Through the hand of Brother Claude, OSB, used with permission of the Benedictine Sisters of Mt. Angel, OR.

© Gertrude Feick 2022

Third Sunday of Lent

Year of the Family "Amoris Laetitia The Joy of Love"

In other years: Blessed Francis Palau y Quer (1811-1872)

Readings of the Day

Rule of Saint Benedict: Ch 41 Times for the Brothers' Meals

Mass:  Ex 3:1-8a, 13-15; Resp Ps 103; 1 Cor 10:1-6, 10-12; Lk 13:1-9 or Ex 17:3-7; Resp Ps 95; Rm 5:1-2, 3-8; Jn 4:5-42

He pardons all your iniquities.

MARY, QUEEN OF PEACE,

PRAY FOR US.

Whoever thinks he is standing secure should take care not to fall.

(1 Cor 10:12)

I like it when Jesus poses questions. In today's Gospel, He asks: Do you think that because these Galileans suffered in this way they were greater sinners than all other Galileans? Problems begin when we start pointing fingers. These words from the psalmist come to mind: "I said, 'I will watch my ways, lest I sin with my tongue, I will set a curb on my mouth'" (Ps 39:1). And words from our Lord: For [our heavenly Father] makes His sun rise on the bad and the good, and causes rain to fall on the just and the unjust (Mt 5:45). Thankfully, we are all together on this journey and God does not deal with us according to our sins, or requite us as our deeds deserve (Ps 103:9-10). God loves each one of us so much; He cultivates us with His mercy and love. As the gardener says to the owner of the fig tree in today's Gospel, Jesus says to us, day in and day out: Leave it for this year also, and I shall cultivate the ground around it and fertilize it; it may bear fruit in the future (Lk 13:8-9). 

Brothers and sisters, God believes in us! He trusts us and accompanies us with patience. He does not get discouraged, but always instills hope in us. God is Father and looks after you as a father. As the best of fathers. He does not look at the achievements you have not reached, but the fruits that you can bear. He does not keep track of your shortcomings but encourages your potential. He does not dwell on your past, but confidently bets on your future.

(Pope Francis, Angelus Address, March 20, 2022) 

United in faith and prayer, we pray for the grace to continue our search for God. God's mercy endures forever. 

BLESSED FRANCIS PALAU Y QUER,

PRAY FOR US.

Today's photo: I forgot about these clothed in Lenten violet beauties, seen here at the Abbey of Our Lady of New Clairvaux, Vina, CA.

© Gertrude Feick 2022

Solemnity of Saint Joseph, Spouse of the Blessed Virgin Mary

Year of the Family "Amoris Laetitia The Joy of Love"

Readings of the Day

Rule of Saint Benedict: Ch 40 The Proper Amount of Drink

Mass: 2 Sm 7:4-5a, 12-14a, 16; Resp Ps 89; Rm 4:13, 16-18, 22; Mt 1:16, 18-21, 24a or Lk 2:41-51a

The son of David will live forever.

SAINT JOSEPH, PROTECTOR OF THE HOLY CHURCH,

PRAY FOR US.

Jacob was the father of Joseph, the husband of Mary. 

Of her was born Jesus who is called the Christ.

(Mt 1:16)

Put simply, this is a most glorious Solemnity to commemorate Saint Joseph, Spouse of the Blessed Virgin Mary. A few suggestions for today. First, pray with one of the prayers included below. Second, look to the Litany of Saint Joseph. Invoke this most humble, courageous, strong and faithful man to intercede for you and your loved ones. 

Glorious Patriarch Saint Joseph, whose power makes the impossible possible, come to my aid in these times of anguish and difficulty. Take under your protection the serious and troubling situations that I commend to you, that they may have a happy outcome. My beloved father, all my trust is in you. Let it not be said that I invoked you in vain, and since you can do everything with Jesus and Mary, show me that your goodness is as great as your power.

Amen.

(Taken from a 19^th century French prayer book of the Congregation of the Sisters of Jesus and Mary. Pope Francis has recited this prayer after Lauds, every day, for over 40 years.)

Haid, Guardian of the Redeemer,

Spouse of the Blessed Virgin Mary,

To you God entrusted His only Son;

in you Mary placed her trust;

with you Christ became man.

Blessed Joseph, to us too,

show yourself a father

and guide us in the path of life.

Obtain for us grace, mercy and courage,

and defend us from every evil.

Amen.

(Pope Francis, Patris Corde, December 8, 2020)

Remember us, Saint Joseph, and plead for us to your foster-child. Ask your most holy bride, the Virgin Mary, to look kindly upon us, since she is the mother of Him who with the Father and the Holy Spirit lives and reigns eternally. Amen.

(From a sermon by Saint Bernardine of Siena, priest, in Office of Readings, March 19)

United in faith and prayer, we pray for peace in our hearts; for peace in our families; for peace in our Church; for peace in our world. Saint Joseph, terror of demons, pray for us. 

JOSEPH, MOST STRONG,

PRAY FOR US.

MARY, QUEEN OF PEACE,

PRAY FOR US. 

Today's photo: Saint Joseph with the Child Jesus, through the hand of Sister Suzanne, ocso. Saint Joseph, patron of artisans, pray for us. 

© Gertrude Feick 2022

Friday of the Second Week of Lent

Year of the Family "Amoris Laetitia The Joy of Love"

Saints: Saint Cyril of Jerusalem (315-386): Saint Edward the Martyr (962-978)

Readings of the Day

Rule of Saint Benedict: Ch 39 The Proper Amount of Food

Mass: Gn 37:3-4, 12-13a, 17b-28a; Resp Ps 105; Mt 21:33-43, 45-46

Remember the marvels the Lord has done.

MARY, QUEEN OF PEACE,

PRAY FOR US.

What leads us to do the things we read about in today's first reading: "When [Joseph's] brothers saw that their father loved him best of all his sons, they hated him so much that they would not even greet him " (Gn 37:4). Or in the Gospel parable: "But the tenants seized the servants and one they beat, another they killed, and a third they stoned" (Mt 21:35). We are all capable of such things, in one form or another. Thank you, Saint Benedict, for these tools for good works: Harbor neither hatred or jealousy of anyone, and do nothing out of envy. Do not love quarreling; shun arrogance. Respect the elders and love the young. Pray for your enemies out of love for Christ. If you have a dispute with someone, make peace with him before the sun goes down (Rule of Saint Benedict 4:65-73)

The root of all good works is the hope of the resurrection; for the expectation of the reward [moves] the soul to good works.

(Saint Cyril of Jerusalem)

The Spirit comes gently and makes Himself known by His fragrance. He is not felt as a burden, for He is light, very light. Rays of light and knowledge stream before Him as He approaches. The Spirit comes with the tenderness of a true friend and protector to save, to heal, to teach, to counsel, to strengthen, to console. The Spirit comes to enlighten the mind first of the one who receives Him, and then, through Him, the minds of others as well.

(From a catechetical instruction by Saint Cyril of Jerusalem, in Office of Readings, Seventh Week of Easter, Monday)

United in faith and prayer, we keep going. Jesus, Crown of peace, have mercy on us.

SAINT CYRIL OF JERUSALEM,

SAINT EDWARD THE MARTYR,

PRAY FOR US.

Today's photo: Mount Hood in its glory as captured here by Jordan in Salem, OR. Yes, Suzanne, it is lovely. Mountains and snow, bless the Lord.

© Gertrude Feick 2022

Thursday of the Second Week of Lent

Year of the Family "Amoris Laetitia The Joy of Love"

Saint: Saint Patrick, Bishop, Patron Saint of Ireland (385-461)

Readings of the Day

Rule of Saint Benedict: Ch 38 The Reader for the Week

Mass:  Jer 17:5-10; Resp Ps 1; Lk 16:19-31

Blessed are they who hope in the Lord.

MARY, QUEEN OF PEACE,

PRAY FOR US.

Happy Saint Patrick's Day! Let not our hearts turn away from the Lord (Jer 17:5), oh, blessed is the man who trusts in the Lord, whose hope is in the Lord (Jer 17:7). Saint Patrick certainly hung in there despite many hardships, trials, and opposition.

I give unceasing thanks to my God, who kept me faithful in the day of my testing. Today I can offer Him sacrifice with confidence, giving myself as a living victim to Christ, my Lord; who kept me safe through all my trials. I can now say: Who am I, Lord, and what is my calling, that your worked through me with such divine power?

(From the confession of Saint Patrick, bishop, in Office of Readings, March 17)

The following was passed on to me from my Irish Great Aunt Mary of happy memory. 

May those who love us love us.

And those who don't love us may God turn their hearts.

And if He doesn't turn their hearts,

may He turn their ankles,

so we know them by their limping. 

SAINT PATRICK,

PRAY FOR US.

Today's photo: How can you not have hope when you see this precious little leprechaun. Meet the newest addition to the family, here my grandnephew. Let the little children come to me, says the Lord. 

© Gertrude Feick 2022

Wednesday of the Second Week of Lent

Year of the Family "Amoris Laetitia The Joy of Love"

Readings of the Day

Rule of Saint Benedict: Ch 37 The Elderly and Children

Mass: Jer 18:18-20; Resp Ps 31; Mt 20:17-28

But I put my trust in you, O Lord.

MARY, QUEEN OF PEACE,

PRAY FOR US.

It happens that in today's reading from the Holy Rule, Saint Benedict offers the chapter on the elderly and children. And Pope Francis continued his Wednesday catechesis on the meaning and value of old age. Saint Benedict begins: "Although human nature itself is inclined to be compassionate toward the old and the young, the authority of the rule should also provide for them" (RB 37:1). Among other things, they should be "treated with kindly consideration" (RB 37:3). Pope Francis offers this, while putting some of the responsibility on the elders and children too: "The special sensibility of us old people, of old age for the attention, thoughts and affections that make us human, should once again become the vocation of many. And it will be a choice of the love of the elderly towards the new generations ... Let us move forward. The world needs strong young people, who move forward, and wise elders. Let us ask for the grace of wisdom." United in faith and prayer, we are all in this together.

So with old age is wisdom, and with length of days understanding.

(Job 12:12)

Though young men faint and grow weary, and youths stagger and fall, 

They that hope in the Lord will renew their strength,

they will soar as with eagles' wings;

They will run and not grow weary, walk and not grow faint.

(Isaiah 40:31)

Today's photo: It's that time of the year when beauty bursts in the blink of an eye.  

© Gertrude Feick 2022

Tuesday of the Second Week of Lent

Year of the Family "Amoris Laetitia The Joy of Love"

Saint: Blessed John Anne (-1589)

Readings of the Day

Rule of Saint Benedict: Ch 36 The Sick Brothers

Mass: Is 1:10, 16-20; Resp Ps 50; Mt 23:1-12

To the upright I will show the saving power of God.

MARY, QUEEN OF PEACE,

PRAY FOR US.

The last words of Jesus in today Gospel serve as a fitting introduction to what we heard proclaimed at Lauds this morning. Jesus tells us, Whoever exalts himself will be humbled; but whoever humbles himself will be exalted (Mt 23:12). In the Book of Sirach, we hear, "Conduct your affairs with humility, and you will be loved more than a giver of gifts. Humble yourself the more, the greater you are, and you will find favor with God. For great is the power of God: by the humble He is glorified ..." (Sirach 3:17-24). A humble and contrite heart serves us well these days too, when we are in the midst of Saint Benedict's chapters on service, in the kitchen (RB 35), for the sick (RB 36), for the elderly and children (RB 37), and while reading at table (RB 38). Underlying all this service comes from the mouth of Saint Benedict: The brothers or sisters should serve one another (RB 35:1).

Prayer offered in holiness from a faithful heart rises like incense from a holy altar. Nothing is more fragrant than the fragrance of the Lord. May all who believe share in this fragrance.

(From a commentary on the psalms by Saint Augustine, bishop, in Office of Readings, Second Week of Lent, Tuesday)

United in faith and prayer, we keep going. 

BLESSED JOHN ANNE,

PRAY FOR US.

Today's photo: This one greeted me in the garden yesterday morning.

© Gertrude Feick 2022

Monday of the Second Week of Lent

Year of the Family "Amoris Laetitia The Joy of Love"

Readings of the Day

Rule of Saint Benedict: Ch 35:12-18 Kitchen Servers for the Week 

Mass: Dn 9:4b-10; Resp Ps 79; Lk 6:36-38

We give thanks to you forever.

MARY, QUEEN OF PEACE,

PRAY FOR US.

The Lord waits for us daily to translate into action, as we should, His holy teachings. 

Therefore our life span has been lengthened by a truce, that we may amend our misdeeds.

(Rule of Saint Benedict, Prologue 35-36)

Here we are once again. Welcome to Monday. In today's Gospel, Jesus provides a few things for us to work on during this Second Week of Lent. 

Be merciful, just as your Father is merciful.

Stop judging.

Forgive.

Give.

Pardon one another so that later on you will not remember the injury. The recollection of an injury is in itself wrong. It adds to our anger, nurtures our sin and hates what is good. It is a rusty arrow and poison for the soul. It puts all virtue to flight.

(Saint Francis de Paola, 1416-1507)

United in faith and prayer, we continue to pray for all those who suffer in any way from violence, war, unrest, or strife, and for all those who find themselves in harm's way. 

Today's photo: Another blossom at the Abbey of Our Lady of New Clairvaux.

© Gertrude Feick 2022

Second Sunday of Lent

Year of the Family "Amoris Laetitia The Joy of Love"

Readings of the Day

Rule of Saint Benedict: Ch 35:1-11 Kitchen Servers of the Week 

Mass: Gn 15:5-12, 17-18; Resp Ps 27; Ph 3:17-4:1; Lk 9:28b-36

I believe that I shall see the bounty of the Lord.

MARY, QUEEN OF PEACE,

PRAY FOR US.

In your light we see light.

(Ps 36:10)

Welcome to the Second Sunday of Lent. How are things going? Jesus is transfigured today. While He was praying on the mountain, His face changed in appearance, and His clothing became a dazzling white (Lk 9:28b-29). Be renewed by His Light that shines forth in your heart. No matter what comes your way. Let the light of your face shine on us, O Lord (Ps 4:7). 

In the preaching of the holy Gospel all should receive a strengthening of their faith. No one should be ashamed of the cross of Christ, through which the world has been redeemed.

No one should fear to suffer for the sake of justice; no one should lose confidence in the reward that has been promised. The way to rest is through toil, the way to life is through death. Christ has taken on Himself the whole weakness of our lowly nature. If then we are steadfast in our faith in Him and in our love for Him, we win the victory that He has won, we receive what He has promised.

When it comes to obeying the commandments or enduring adversity, the words uttered by the Father should always echo in our ears: This is my Son, the beloved, in Whom I am well pleased; listen to Him.

(From a sermon by Pope Saint Leo the Great, in Office of Readings, Second Sunday of Lent)

United in prayer, we "stand firm in the faith" (Ph 4:1), and pray for all those who suffer and grieve, are anxious, troubled, worried, or stand in harm's way, for whatever reason. 

Today's photo: A taste of the bounty at the Abbey of New Clairvaux, Vina, CA. 

© Gertrude Feick 2022

Saturday of the First Week of Lent

Year of the Family "Amoris Laetitia The Joy of Love"

Readings of the Day

Rule of Saint Benedict: Ch 34 Distribution of Goods According to Need

Mass: Dt 26:16-19; Resp Ps 119; Mt 5:43-48

I will give you thanks with an upright heart.

MARY, QUEEN OF PEACE,

PRAY FOR US.

Our heavenly Father "makes His sun rise on the bad and the good, and causes rain to fall on the just and the unjust" (Mt 5:45), says the Lord. We pray for and love everyone, no matter what. We, as Saint Benedict reminds us, do not repay one bad turn with another, we do not injure anyone and bear injuries patiently; we love our enemies, bless those who curse us, and endure persecution for the sake of justice (RB 4:29-32). For those who have hurt or harmed us; for those who dislike us; for those who look down on us; for those who refuse to speak to us, we pray to the Lord (adapted from Magnificat, Intercessions, Saturday morning, March 12, 202). Dear Jesus, Crown of peace, have mercy on us. 

We continue to pray for all those affected by violence, war, strife, unrest, and are in harm's way for whatever reason. And for all those who grieve the death of a loved one. May the faithful departed rest in the peace of Christ. 

Today's photo: Prune plum tree blossoms at the Abbey of Our Lady of New Clairvaux.

© Gertrude Feick 2022

Friday of the First Week of Lent

Year of the Family "Amoris Laetitia The Joy of Love"

Saints: Saint Aengus (-824); Saint Constantine (6th century)

Readings of the Day

Rule of Saint Benedict: Ch 33 Monks and Private Ownership

Mass:  Ezk 18:21-28; Resp Ps 130; Mt 5:20-26

If you, Lord, mark our iniquities, who can stand?

MARY, QUEEN OF PEACE,

PRAY FOR US.

Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called children of God.

(Mt 5:9)

Saint Benedict, in this tool for good works, echoes Jesus in today's Gospel: "If you have a dispute with someone, make peace with him before the sun goes down" (RB 4:73). In the Prologue to his Rule, Saint Benedict says that peace must be our quest and aim (RB Prol 18). Christ is our peace (Eph 2:14). We have been given the gift of Christ's peace; we are to be people of peace.

Having been forgiven, we are called to forgive. Having been justified by God's grace, we are called to give witness to justice in our lives, for we know full well that peaceful relationships can exist in the world only when the justice of Christ permeates hearts and is expressed in all the structures of society.

But in order to communicate peace according to Christ's words, we must live that peace. In the words of the Apostle Paul, "Christ's peace must reign in your hearts, since as members of the one body, you are called to that peace" (Col 3:15). Yes, dear brothers and sisters, there must be peace ... in the hearts of all who embrace His Gospel of love.

(Pope John Paul II, Homily, Holy Mass for Peace, Manila, Philippines, February 19, 1981, para. 6, 7)

Clothe yourselves with heartfelt mercy, with kindness, humility, meekness and patience. Bear with one another ... Forgive as the Lord has forgiven you.

(Col 3:12-13) 

SAINT AENGUS,

SAINT CONSTANTINE,

PRAY FOR US.

NB. A worthwhile read for reflection is the homily of Pope Saint John Paul II quoted above. It is not so long and can be found on the internet, for example, at www.vatican.va. United in faith and prayer, we continue to pray for all affected by war, violence, strife, and unrest, and any who, for whatever reason, find themselves in harm's way.

Today's photo: Lest you strike your foot against a stone.

© Gertrude Feick 2022