Feast of the Visitation of the Blessed Virgin Mary

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

Pray a rosary for peace with Pope Francis

Readings of the Day

Rule of Saint Benedict: Ch 7:31-33 Humility

Mass: Zephania 3:14-18a or Rm 12:9-16; Resp Ps (Is 12); Lk 1:39-56

My strength and my courage is the Lord.

MARY, QUEEN OF PEACE,

PRAY FOR US.

The Lord, your God, is in your midst, a mighty savior.

(Zephaniah 3:17)

Rejoice in hope, endure in affliction, persevere in prayer.

(Rom 12:12)

Mary makes haste to the hill country today, to see her pregnant cousin Elizabeth. When Elizabeth hears Mary's greeting, the infant in her womb leaps for joy. Mary and Jesus come to greet you too. Open your door and let them in. Leap for joy! My soul proclaims the greatness of the Lord! 

Behold, the long-desired of nations

is standing at the door and knocking.

Get up, run, open!

Get up by faith,

Run by prayer,

Open by consent!

Behold, she says,

I am the handmaid of the Lord.

Be it unto me according to your word.

(Bernard of Clairvaux, in Mary, Most Holy: Meditating with the Early Cistercians)

MARY, CAUSE OF OUR JOY,

SAINT ELIZABETH,

PRAY FOR US.

Today's photo: God indeed is my savior.

© Gertrude Feick 2022

Monday of the Seventh Week of Easter

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

Saints: Saint Joan of Arc, A Patron Saint of France (c.1412-1431); Saint Zdzislawa of Lemberk OP (c.1220-1252); Saint Luke Kirby (c.1549-1582); The Yorkshire Martyrs (16th century); Saint Walstun (11th century); Blessed James Salomonio OP, Father of the Poor (1231-1314)

Memorial Day

Readings of the Day

Rule of Saint Benedict: Ch 7:24-30 Humility

Mass:  Acts 19:1-8; Resp Ps 68; Jn 16:29-33

Sing to God.

MARY, QUEEN OF PEACE,

PRAY FOR US.

I am not alone because the Father is with me. I have told you this so that you might have peace in me. In the world you will have trouble, but take courage, I have conquered the world.

(Jn 16:32-33)

Welcome to another Monday, this one in celebration of Memorial Day in our country, a day when our nation remembers and honors all the men and women who died while serving in the United States military. Thank you to all those who gave their lives in service of our country. May they rest in peace. At the same time, many families and friends gather on this holiday to mark the unofficial beginning of summer. We pray for their safety, health and well-being, and that all may gather renewed in faith, hope, and love.

If you were then raised with Christ, seek what is above, 

where Christ is seated at the right hand of God. Alleluia, alleluia.

(Gospel Acclamation, Mass)

SAINT JOAN OF ARC,

SAINT ZDZISLAWA OF LEMBERK,

SAINT LUKE KIRBY,

THE YORKSHIRE MARTYRS,

SAINT WALSTUN,

BLESSED JAMES SALOMONIO,

PRAY FOR US.

Today's photo: Chant praise to His name. 

© Gertrude Feick 2022

The Ascension of the Lord

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

56th World Communications Day

In other years: Pope Saint Paul VI (1897-1978); Blessed Joseph Gerard (1831-1914); Blessed Elia of Saint Clement (1901-1927); Blessed William Arnaud OP and Companions, Martyrs (13th century)

Readings of the Day

Rule of Saint Benedict: Ch 7:19-24 Humility

Mass:  Acts 1:1-11; Resp Ps 47; Eph 1:17-23 or Heb 9:24-28; 10:19-23; Lk 24:46-53

God mounts His throne to shouts of joy: a blare of trumpets for the Lord.

MARY, QUEEN OF PEACE,

PRAY FOR US. 

May the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, give you a Spirit of wisdom and revelation resulting in knowledge of Him.

(Eph 1:17)

Welcome to Sunday and our celebration of the Ascension of the Lord. Then He led them out as far as Bethany, raised His hands, and blessed them. As He blessed them He parted from them and was taken up to heaven. They did Him homage and then returned to Jerusalem with great joy, and they were continually in the temple praising God (Lk 24:50-53). Remember, your grief will become joy ... I will see you again (Jn 16:20,22), says the Lord. 

We return then, to the tasks at hand, especially on this busier than usual Sunday. We go, united in faith and prayer, with joy while we continually praise God. May the eyes of our hearts be enlightened, that we may know what is the hope that belongs to His call (Eph 1:18). We hold unwaveringly to our confession that gives us hope, for He who made the promise is trustworthy (Heb 10:23). Place your hope in God alone (Rule of Saint Benedict, 4:41). 

Today our Lord Jesus Christ ascended into heaven; let our hearts ascend with Him. Listen to the words of the Apostle: If you have risen with Christ, set your hearts on the things that are above where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God; seek the things that are above, not the things that are on earth. For just as He remained with us even after His ascension, so we too are already in heaven with Him, even though what is promised us has not yet been fulfilled in our bodies.

(From a sermon by Saint Augustine, bishop, in Office of Readings, Ascension)

The most important task in pastoral activity is the "apostolate of the ear" - to listen before speaking, as the Apostle James exhorts: "Let every man be quick to hear, slow to speak" (1:19).

Freely giving our own time to listen to people is the first act of charity.

(Pope Francis, Message for World Communications Day 2022) 

POPE SAINT PAUL VI,

BLESSED JOSEPH GERARD,

BLESSED ELIA OF SAINT CLEMENT,

BLESSED WILLIAM ARNAUD AND COMPANIONS,

PRAY FOR US.

Today's photo: This one is from the archives. It was taken January 30, 2022, on one of my many daily treks to the compost bins. The great king over all the earth.

© Gertrude Feick 2022

Saturday of the Sixth Week of Easter

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

Saints: Blessed Margaret Pole, Countess of Salisbury (1473-1541; Blessed Mary Bartholomew Bagnesi OP (1514-1577)

Readings of the Day

Rule of Saint Benedict: Ch 7:10-18 Humility

Mass: Acts 18:23-28; Resp Ps 47; Jn 16:23b-28

Shout to God with cries of gladness.

MARY, QUEEN OF PEACE,

PRAY FOR US.

Whatever you ask the Father in my name He will give to you ...

ask and you will receive, so that your joy may be complete.

(Jn 16:23-24)

Paul continues his work in today's account from the Acts of Apostles. Paul is busy traveling
from place to place, now through the region of Galatia and Phyrgia. In that area Paul brings strength to all the disciples (Acts 18:23). As the days move on, in preparation for tomorrow's celebration of the Ascension of the Lord, and then Pentecost Sunday, may we strengthen and encourage one another in our faith and through prayer. Believe in the name of God's Son, Jesus Christ (1 Jn 3:23). Call on Him. As He says: Whatever you ask the Father in my name He will give to you ... Jesus, splendor of the Father, have mercy on us.

BLESSED MARGARET POLE,

BLESSED MARY BARTHOLOMEW BAGNESI,

PRAY FOR US.

Today's photo: United in faith and prayer, this one comes from a faithful reader east of the Mississippi, in the Buckeye State of Ohio. A professional landscape gardener, he tends to this little flower in the interior garden of a community of contemplative nuns in the local area. The story of the little rose is best from him: "One of the sisters asked me years ago to watch over her tiny little rose plant and every time it presents a rose there is cause for celebration in my gardener's heart!" I am pleased and honored to include this precious rose with account in our daily lectio divina reflection, especially as it comes from a neighboring Buckeye, who is greatly appreciated by this Hoosier at heart. Thank you for being there. Sing hymns of praise.

© Gertrude Feick 2022

Friday of the Sixth Week of Easter

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

Saint: Saint Augustine of Canterbury, Bishop (-605?); Blessed Andrew Franchi OP (1335-1401)

Readings of the Day

Rule of Saint Benedict: Ch 7:5-9 Humility

Mass: Acts 18:9-18; Resp Ps 47; Jn 16:20-23

Sing praise to God, sing praise.

MARY, QUEEN OF PEACE,

PRAY FOR US.

O chosen people, proclaim the mighty works of Him who called you out of darkness into His wonderful light.

(Entrance Antiphon, Mass for the Optional Memorial of Saint Augustine of Canterbury)

We continue to join others in preparation for Sunday's celebration of the Ascension of the Lord. Jesus tells us that our grief will become joy and no one will take that joy away. Yes, our hearts will rejoice (Jn 16:20,22). Our month of Mary is drawing to a close and we rejoice with her, the Sorrowful Mother, who is Mary, Cause of our joy. Amen.

SAINT AUGUSTINE OF CANTERBURY,

BLESSED ANDREW FRANCHI,

PRAY FOR US.

Today's photo: This one speaks for itself. The Lord, the Most High, the awesome.

© Gertrude Feick 2022

Thursday of the Sixth Week of Easter

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

Saint: Saint Philip Neri (1515-1595)  

Readings of the Day

Rule of Saint Benedict: Ch 7:1-4 Humility

Mass: Acts 18:1-8; Resp Ps 98; Jn 16:16-20

Sing to the Lord a new song.

MARY, QUEEN OF PEACE,

PRAY FOR US.

The love of God has been poured into our hearts through the Spirit of God dwelling within us, alleluia.

(Entrance Antiphon, Mass)

Reflect for a moment on our Entrance Antiphon for today's celebration of the Holy Eucharist. The love of God has been poured into our hearts ... If the message sinks deep, how could we not rejoice in the Lord, always, I say it again: rejoice! (Ph 4:4). Or with the psalmist, break into song; sing praise! (Ps 98). Our saint of the day, Saint Philip Neri, is certainly someone who did just that. Born in Florence, he went to Rome as a young man, worked as a tutor, extended charity to young men, and gathered others to help the sick and poor. Ordained in 1515, he built a place of prayer over the Church of Saint Jerome and celebrated services with spiritual readings and hymns. Dear to the students at the English College, the Venerabile, in Rome, Philip eventually founded the Congregation of the Oratory, a society of priests and brothers, "bound only by the bond of charity". The Oratory remains active throughout the world; you can find them in our nation's capital, for one.

Philip Neri was far from somber. It is said, and this a story that brings a smile to my face when I read it every year, that "when some of his penitents made their confession to him (he was famous as a confessor) he imposed salutary and deflating penances on them, such as walking through the streets of Rome carrying his cat (he was very fond of cats)." Furthermore, "when a novice showed signs of excessive seriousness, Philip stood on his head in front of him, to make him laugh" (Universalis, May 26). I am reminded of another favorite saint of mine, Saint John Bosco (1815-1888), who used to do gymnastics, flipping here and there for the youth that gathered in his midst. 

We are so blessed with our faith tradition and our saints, formally recognized ones, and the saints next door. They can help us keep things in perspective. Remember, as Saint Benedict tells us, "do not aspire to be called holy before you really are, but first be holy that you may more truly be called so" (Rule of Saint Benedict, 4:62). And there is something Abbot Basil Hume told young monks at a 1969 clothing ceremony: "Don't take yourselves too seriously. Take life seriously. Take God seriously. But don't, please don't, take yourselves too seriously!" We are all wonderful in God's eyes. 

Rejoice in the Lord, not in the world. That is, rejoice in the truth, not in wickedness; rejoice in the hope of eternity, not in the fading flower of vanity. That is the way to rejoice. Wherever you are on earth, the Lord is near, do not be anxious about anything.

(From a sermon by Saint Augustine, bishop, in Office of Readings, May 26, Memorial of Philip Neri, priest)

SAINT PHILIP NERI,

SAINT JOHN BOSCO,

PRAY FOR US.

Today's photo: This lovely peach colored rose comes from a faithful reader who passes it every day on one of her morning walks with her faithful companion, Molly the dog. It can be found in Eureka, CA.

© Gertrude Feick 2022

Wednesday of the Sixth Week of Easter

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

Saints: Saint Bede the Venerable, Priest, Doctor (673-735); Pope Saint Gregory VII (1020-1085); Saint Mary Magdalen de Pazzi, Virgin (1566-1606)

Readings of the Day

Rule of Saint Benedict: Ch 6 Restraint of Speech

Mass: Acts 17:15, 22-18:1; Resp Ps 148; Jn 16:12-15

Praise Him in the heights.

MARY, QUEEN OF PEACE,

PRAY FOR US.

The God who made the world and all that is in it, the Lord of heaven and earth ...

it is He who gives to everyone life and breath and everything.

(Acts 17:24)

Let us seek God, then, even grope for Him and find Him, though He is indeed not far from any of us (Acts 17:27). In Him we live and move and have our being (Acts 17:28). Pray. Holy Spirit, come. When He comes, the Spirit of truth, He will guide you to all truth (Jn 16:13). Amen.

I have resolved to keep watch over my ways that I may never sin with my tongue. I have put a guard on my mouth. I was silent and humbled, and I refrained even from good words ...

In a flood of words you will not avoid sin ... the tongue holds the key to life and death.

(Rule of Saint Benedict, 6:1,4-5)

SAINT BEDE THE VENERABLE,

POPE SAINT GREGORY VII,

SAINT MARY MAGDALENE DE PAZZI,

PRAY FOR US.

Today's photo: There are plenty of views like this around here. This is an especially nice one. 😎 Heaven and earth are full of your glory.

© Gertrude Feick 2022

Tuesday of the Sixth Week of Easter

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

Saints: Our Lady, Help of Christians, Patroness of Australasia; Blessed Louis-Zepherin Moreau (1824-1901); Saint Aldhelm (7th-8th century)

World Day of Prayer for the Church in China, proclaimed by Pope Benedict XVI in 2007

Readings of the Day

Rule of Saint Benedict: Ch 5:14-19 Obedience

Mass: Acts 16:22-34; Resp Ps 138; Jn 16:5-11

Forsake not the work of your hands.

MARY, QUEEN OF PEACE,

OUR LADY, HELP OF CHRISTIANS,

PRAY FOR US.

God loves a cheerful giver.

(Rule of Saint Benedict, 5:16/2 Cor 9:7)

We are in the midst of Saint Benedict's Chapter 5 on Obedience. Try bringing that topic up at the office water cooler. 😶 It may be that what comes from our holy father Benedict in verse 16 of the chapter (see above) is important to keep in mind and heart when embracing some of the other values related to obedience. For example, Saint Benedict is teaching about an obedience that will "be acceptable to God and agreeable to others only if compliance with what is commanded is not cringing or sluggish or half-hearted. but free from any grumbling or any reaction of unwillingness" (RB 5:14). Furthermore, "if a disciple obeys grudgingly and grumbles, not only aloud but also in his heart, then, even though he carries out the order, his action will not be accepted with favor by God, who sees that he is grumbling in his heart" (RB 5:17-18). Essentially, Saint Benedict has no time for grumbling of any sort. These are just a few things to keep in mind today, for whatever comes our way, from boss, husband, wife, child, coach, sister, or brother. God loves a cheerful giver, and a sincere one too. Come, Holy Spirit, come. 

True lovers of our most lovely Lady would praise her everywhere, and see her loved by all the world.

(Saint Alphonsus Mary Liguori, 1696-1787)

BLESSED LOUIS ZEPHERIN-MOREAU,

SAINT ALDHELM,

PRAY FOR US.

Today's photo: A yellow rose is especially nice, fragrance and all. You built up strength within me.

© Gertrude Feick 2022

Monday of the Sixth Week of Easter

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

Readings of the Day

Rule of Saint Benedict: Ch 5:1-13 Obedience 

Mass: Acts 16:11-15; Resp Ps 149; Jn 15:26-16:4a

This is the glory of all His faithful.

MARY, QUEEN OF PEACE,

PRAY FOR US.

The first step of humility is unhesitating obedience, which comes naturally to those who cherish Christ above all.

(Rule of Saint Benedict, 5:1)

Welcome to Monday as Mary's Month of May marches on. Mary, Morning star, pray for us.

We have one of my favorite accounts from the Acts of the Apostles today. It is there that we meet Lydia, a dealer in purple cloth, from the city of Thyatira, a worshiper of God, who listened. The Lord opened her heart to pay attention to what Paul was saying. (Acts 16:14). Dear Lydia, dealer in purple cloth, intercede for us. May we exult in the glory of the Lord (Ps 149), listen and be so attentive to the Word. The Lord takes delight in His people.

Whoever listens to you, listens to me.

(Rule of Saint Benedict, 5:6/Lk 10:16) 

Today's photo: There are roses in the air. Alleluia.

© Gertrude Feick 2022

Sixth Sunday of Easter

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

In other years: Saint Rita of Cascia, Patron Saint of Impossible or Lost Causes (1377-1437); Saint Joachina de Vedruna de Mas (1783-1854) 

Readings of the Day

Rule of Saint Benedict: Ch 4:63-78 The Tools for Good Works

Mass: Acts 15:1-2, 22-29; Resp Ps 67; Rev 21:10-14, 22-23; Jn 14:23-29

May God let His face shine upon us.

MARY, QUEEN OF PEACE,

PRAY FOR US.

Do not let your hearts be troubled or afraid.

(Jn 14:27)

Place your hope in God alone ... Never lose hope in God's mercy.

(Rule of Saint Benedict, 4:41,74)

Some faithful readers may have read this: "Christ's promise at the Last Supper -'Whoever loves me will keep my word, and my Father and I will our dwelling with Him' - is all that we need to be happy" (Magnificat, May 2022, p. 329). It is all we need. With that in mind and heart we turn to Paul and Barnabas, much loved by the church in Jerusalem, who dedicated their lives to the name of our Lord Jesus Christ (Acts 15:26). It may be a good day to reflect on our dedication to the name of Jesus. A song comes to mind, "At the Name of Jesus". At the name of Jesus, every knee should bow, every tongue confess Him, King of glory now. Jesus is Lord, King of glory now! It could be a matter of rededicating our lives, in one way or another to the name of Jesus. We are meant to keep His word and proclaim His name in word and deed so as to sing with the psalmist, May the peoples praise you, O God; may all the peoples praise you (Ps 67). Jesus gives us His peace (Jn 14:27). In this, He is the strength and comfort we need to keep us going. Without Him, we do nothing (Jn 15:5). 

Jesus, brightness of eternal light,

Jesus, God of peace,

have mercy on us.

SAINT RITA OF CASCIA,

SAINT JOACHINA DE VEDRUNA DE MAS,

PRAY FOR US.

Today's photo: This beauty is fitting for a Sunday. Another delight found in our midst. May the peoples praise you, O God.

© Gertrude Feick 2022

Saturday of the Fifth Week of Easter

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

Saints: Saint Christopher Magallanes and his Companions, Martyrs (early 20th century); Blessed Eugene de Mazenod (1782-1861)

Readings of the Day

Rule of Saint Benedict: Ch 4:44-62 The Tools for Good Works

Mass: Acts 16:1-10; Resp Ps 100; Jn 15:18-21

Serve the Lord with gladness.

MARY, QUEEN OF PEACE,

PRAY FOR US.

Yearn for everlasting life with holy desire.

(Rule of Saint Benedict, 4:46)

We wrap up this week with the ten newly formally canonized saints and plenty of others too, to intercede for us. We are blessed today to commemorate Christopher Magallenes and 24 other Mexican martyrs of the early 20th century, along with the founder of the Oblates of Mary Immaculate, also known as the OMIs, French born Eugene de Mazenod. God is praised. At the same time, we continue to be immersed in Saint Benedict's chapter on the tools for good works. Among other tools to put to use today include "guard your lips from harmful or deceptive speech; prefer moderation in speech and speak no foolish chatter, nothing just to provoke laughter; do not love immoderate or boisterous laughter" (RB 4:51-54). Indeed, our way of acting should be different from the world's way (RB 4:20), as Jesus tells us today: If they persecuted me, they will persecute you. If they kept my word, they will also keep yours. And they will do all these things to you on account of my name, because they do not know the one who sent me (Jn 15:20-21). United in faith and prayer, we keep going, no matter what. Jesus understands. Mary, help of Christians, pray for us.

Why search so hard for a heart that understands us and voice that knows how to speak to us of God and the soul, when the Heart of Christ is open to us and no one in the world knows how to love us and understand us as He does?

(E. Leseur, The Secret Diary of Elisabeth Leseur, p. 171)

Our thoughts in this present life should turn on the praise of God, because it is in praising God that we shall rejoice for ever in the life to come; and no one can be ready for the next life unless he trains himself for it now. So we praise God during our earthly life, and at the same time we make our petitions to Him ... 

We urge you to praise God. That is what we are telling each other when we say Alleluia. You say to your neighbor, "Praise the Lord!" and he says the same to you. We are all urging one another to praise the Lord, and all thereby doing what each of us urges the other to do. But see that your praise comes from your whole being; in other words, see that you praise God not with your lips and voices alone, but with your minds, your lives and all your actions.

(From a discourse on the psalms by Saint Augustine, bishop, in Office of Readings, Fifth Week of Easter, Saturday)

SAINT CHRISTOPHER MAGALLANES AND HIS COMPANIONS,

BLESSED EUGENE DE MAZENOD,

SERVANT OF GOD ELISABETH LESEUR,

SAINT TITUS BRANDSMA,

SAINT MARIE RIVIER,

SAINT CAROLINA SANTOCANALE,

SAINT CHARLES DE FOUCAULD,

SAINT DEVASAHAYAM PILLAI,

SAINT CESAR DE BUS,

SAINT LUIGI MARIA PALAZZOLA,

SAINT JUSTIN RUSSOLILLO,

SAINT ANNA MARIA RUBATTO,

SAINT MARIA DOMENICA MANTOVANI,

PRAY FOR US.

Today's photo: From Moni in Veringendorf, Germany. The Lord is good.

© Gertrude Feick 2022

Friday of the Fifth Week of Easter

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

Saints: Saint Bernadino of Siena, Apostle of Italy (1380-1444); Blessed Columba of Rieti OP (1467-1501)

Readings of the Day

Rule of Saint Benedict: Ch 4:22-43

Mass: Acts 15:22-31; Resp Ps 57; Jn 15:12-17

I will wake the dawn.

MARY, QUEEN OF PEACE,

PRAY FOR US.

Never turn away when someone needs your love.

(Rule of Saint Benedict, 4:26)

Jesus commands us in today's Gospel: Love one another (Jn 15:17). This may sound like a simple command to follow. On the contrary, we understand that it is in fact a tall order. We need only look to Saint Paul's First Letter to the Corinthians where we find that love is patient, kind, not jealous, not pompous, not inflated, and not rude (1 Cor 13:4-5). Love also does not seek its own interests, it isn't quick-tempered, and does not brood over injury (1 Cor 13:5). Furthermore, love bears all things, believes all things, and endures all things (1 Cor 13:7). Love certainly isn't possessive. And if this isn't enough, one can turn to Saint Benedict and the chapter we are immersed in these days, Chapter 4 and the Tools for Good Works. Among other tools, Saint Benedict lists these: "Rid your heart of all deceit. Never give a hollow greeting of peace ... speak the truth with heart and tongue" (RB 4:24,25,28). And perhaps one of the most difficult: "Love your enemies" (RB 4:31). Some tools to implement for this include: Do not repay one bad turn for another, do not injure anyone, but bear injuries patiently ... and if people curse you, do not curse them back but bless them instead. Endure persecution for the sake of justice. Never speak ill of anyone (RB 4:29-30, 32-33,40). 

I will include two more quotations from Servant of God Elisabeth Leseur, one for today, another for tomorrow. Here then with the penultimate one that happens to be another way to love one another. By the grace of God we go forth, united in faith and prayer. Amen.

To shut one's heart to any complaints and regrets that could escape it; to open it wide to all that it can pour forth of the human sympathy, strength, and kindness.

(E. Leseur, The Secret Diary of Elisabeth Leseur, p. 165) 

SAINT BERNADINO OF SIENA,

BLESSED COLUMBA OF RIETI,

SAINT TITUS BRANDSMA,

SAINT MARIE RIVIER,

SAINT CAROLINA SANTOCANALE,

SAINT CHARLES DE FOUCAULD,

SAINT DEVASAHAYAM PILLAI,

SAINT CESAR DE BUS,

SAINT LUIGI MARIA PALAZZOLA,

SAINT JUSTIN RUSSOLILLO,

SAINT ANNA MARIA RUBATTO,

SAINT MARIA DOMENICA MANTOVANI,

PRAY FOR US.

Today's photo: Jean sent this clematis from Indianapolis.  I will give you thanks among the peoples.

© Gertrude Feick 2022

Thursday of the Fifth Week of Easter

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

Saints:Saint Dunstan, Benedictine monk, Archbishop of Canterbury (909-988); Saint Milburga (-c.715); Saint Ivo or Yves, Patron of lawyers (1253-1303); Blessed Raphael Louis Rafiringa (1856-1919); Saint Francis Coll Guitart OP (1812-1875)

Readings of the Day

Rule of Saint Benedict: Ch 4:1-21 The Tools for Good Works

Mass: Acts 15:17-21; Resp Ps 96; Jn 15:9-11

Sing to the Lord a new song.

MARY, QUEEN OF PEACE,

PRAY FOR US.

Your way of acting should be different from the world's way; the love of Christ must come before all else., 

(Rule of Saint Benedict, 4:20-21)

They are certainly words to take to heart and into action in our daily lives, those that come from our holy father Saint Benedict above, from his chapter on the tools for good works. "First of all," however, love the Lord God with your whole heart, your whole soul and all your strength, and love your neighbor as yourself (Rule of Saint Benedict, 4:1-2). Remain in my love (Jn 15:9), says the Lord. I have told you this so that my joy might be in you and your joy might be complete (Jn 15:11). 

God loves a cheerful giver. 

(Rule of Saint Benedict, 5:16/2 Cor 9:7)

SAINT DUNSTAN,

SAINT MILBURGA,

SAINT IVO OR YVES,

BLESSED RAPHAEL LOUIS RAFIRINGA,

SAINT FRANCIS COLL GUITART,

SAINT TITUS BRANDSMA,

SAINT MARIE RIVIER,

SAINT CAROLINA SANTOCANALE,

SAINT CHARLES DE FOUCAULD,

SAINT DEVASAHAYAM PILLAI,

SAINT CESAR DE BUS,

SAINT LUIGI MARIA PALAZZOLA,

SAINT JUSTIN RUSSOLILLO,

SAINT ANNA MARIA RUBATTO,

SAINT MARIA DOMENICA MANTOVANI,

PRAY FOR US.

Today's photo: This beauty is just outside the entrance to our church. Tell His glory among the nations.

© Gertrude Feick 2022

Wednesday of the Fifth Week of Easter

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

Saints:Pope Saint John I, Martyr (-526)

Readings of the Day

Rule of Saint Benedict: Ch 3:7-13 Summoning the Brothers for Counsel

Mass: Acts 15:1-6; Resp Ps 122; Jn 15:1-8

Within your gates, O Jerusalem.

MARY, QUEEN OF PEACE,

PRAY FOR US.

Bear much fruit and become my disciples.

(Jn 15:8)

I am the vine, Jesus tells us, you are the branches. Whoever remains in me and I in him will bear much fruit, because without me you can do nothing (Jn 15:5). Nothing. Cling to the Vine, for nourishment, for strength, for comfort. Without Him we do nothing. "By God's grace I am what I am" (1 Cor 15:10). United in faith and prayer, we go forth.

The Lord calls Himself the vine and those united to Him the branches in order to teach us how much we shall benefit from our union with Him, and how important it is for us to remain in His love. By receiving the Holy Spirit, who is bond of union between us and Christ our Savior, those who are joined to Him, as branches are to a vine, share in His own nature ...

From Christ and in Christ, we have been reborn through the Spirit in order to bear the fruit of life; not the fruit of our old, sinful life but the fruit of a new life founded upon our faith in Him and our love for Him ... 

By bestowing on them the Holy Spirit, the Word of God, the only begotten Son of the Father, gives Christians a certain kinship with Himself and with God the Father because they have been united to Him by faith and by determination to do His will in all things. He helps them to grow in love and reverence for God, and teaches them to discern right from wrong and to act with integrity.

(From a commentary on the Gospel of John by Saint Cyril of Alexandria, bishop, in Office of Readings, Fifth Week of Easter, Tuesday).

POPE SAINT JOHN I,

SAINT TITUS BRANDSMA,

SAINT MARIE RIVIER,

SAINT CAROLINA SANTOCANALE,

SAINT CHARLES DE FOUCAULD,

SAINT DEVASAHAYAM PILLAI,

SAINT CESAR DE BUS,

SAINT LUIGI MARIA PALAZZOLA,

SAINT JUSTIN RUSSOLILLO,

SAINT ANNA MARIA RUBATTO,

SAINT MARIA DOMENICA MANTOVANI,

PRAY FOR US.

Today's photo: Give thanks to the name of the Lord.

© Gertrude Feick 2022

Tuesday of the Fifth Week of Easter

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

Readings of the Day

Rule of Saint Benedict: Ch 3:1-6 Summoning the Brothers for Counsel

Mass: Acts 14:19-28; Resp Ps 145; Jn 14:27-31a

Let your faithful ones bless you.

MARY, QUEEN OF PEACE,

PRAY FOR US.

Let not your hearts be troubled; neither let them be afraid.

(Jn 14:27)

There is nothing like a considered stoned to death man who gets up and gets busy. So goes our account from the Acts of the Apostles. The crowds, who had enough of Paul, stone him and drag him out of the city. Dead? I don't think so. The disciples gather around Paul; he gets up. The next day he and Barnabas leave for Derbe. Among other things, they make a considerable number of disciples, then move on to strengthen the spirits of other disciples and exhort them to persevere in the faith. As if they need to say: "It is necessary for us to undergo many hardships to enter the Kingdom of God" (Acts 14:22). No kidding. Paul and Barnabas could certainly attest to that. Not much could stop them though. They continue to travel here and there, appoint others to help them, pray and fast, proclaim the word, then catch a boat to Antioch. It must have been quite a lively account they gave the Church in Antioch, as they reported what God had done with them, and done with the Gentiles too. Now for a little well-deserved rest. Amen. No matter what, we keep going, united in faith and prayer. Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. Not as the world gives do I give it to you (Jn 14:27), says the Lord.

We should make each day a resume for our whole life by filling it with prayer, work, and charity.

(E. Leseur, The Secret Diary of Elisabeth Leseur, p. 163) 

SAINT TITUS BRANDSMA,

SAINT MARIE RIVIER,

SAINT CAROLINA SANTOCANALE,

SAINT CHARLES DE FOUCAULD,

SAINT DEVASAHAYAM PILLAI,

SAINT CESAR DE BUS,

SAINT LUIGI MARIA PALAZZOLA,

SAINT JUSTIN RUSSOLILLO,

SAINT ANNA MARIA RUBATTO,

SAINT MARIA DOMENICA MANTOVANI,

PRAY FOR US.

Today's photo: One of my favorites. Let your works give you thanks, O Lord.

© Gertrude Feick 2022

Monday of the Fifth Week of Easter

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

Happy 95th birthday to Pope Benedict XVI (b. 1927). Herzlichen Glueckwunsch zum Geburtstag. Auguri!

Saints: Saint Simon Stock (c.1165-1265); Saint Brendan (486-578); Saint John Stone (?-1539)

Readings of the Day

Rule of Saint Benedict: Ch 2:33-40 Qualities of the Abbot

Mass: Acts 14:5-18; Resp Ps 115; Jn 14:21-26

Our God is in heaven.

MARY, QUEEN OF PEACE,

PRAY FOR US.

Welcome to a Monday about half-way through May, the Month of Mary. Mary, Virgin most powerful, pray for us. Some words from Jesus include, Whoever loves me will be loved by my Father, and I will love him, and reveal myself to him (Jn 14:23). Let's be about loving Jesus with our whole heart, our whole soul and all our strength - today. Alleluia. Christ is risen. He is truly risen. 

Silence is sometimes an act of energy, and smiling, too.

(E. Leseur, The Secret Diary of Elisabeth Leseur, p. 166)

In addition to the saints for each day, we will invoke the ten newly canonized all week long. Mary, Queen of all saints, pray for us.

SAINT SIMON STOCK,

SAINT BRENDAN,

SAINT JOHN STONE,

SAINT TITUS BRANDSMA,

SAINT MARIE RIVIER,

SAINT CAROLINA SANTOCANALE,

SAINT CHARLES DE FOUCAULD,

SAINT DEVASAHAYAM PILLAI,

SAINT CESAR DE BUS,

SAINT LUIGI MARIA PALAZZOLA,

SAINT JUSTIN RUSSOLILLO,

SAINT ANNA MARIA RUBATTO,

SAINT MARIA DOMENICA MANTOVANI,

PRAY FOR US.

Today's photo: This awesome shot is yet another contribution from a recent visitor and faithful reader. Heaven is the heaven of the Lord.

© Gertrude Feick 2022

Fifth Sunday of Easter

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

In other years: Saint Isidore the Farmer, Patron of Madrid (1070-1130); Saint Carthage (c.555-637); Blessed Giles of Vaozela OP (c.1184-1265); Blessed Andrew Abellon OP (1375-1450) 

Readings of the Day

Rule of Saint Benedict: Ch 2:30-32 Qualities of the Abbot

Mass: Acts 14:21-27; Resp Ps 145; Rev 21:1-5a; Jn 13:31-33a, 34-35

Let all your works give you thanks, O Lord.

MARY, QUEEN OF PEACE,

PRAY FOR US.

Behold, God's dwelling is with the human race.

(Rev 21:5)

As of today, we have ten newly formally canonized saints to intercede for us. We invoke them below. They cheer us on to glory. God is praised!

Almost enough for this week is to embrace Jesus' words: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you also should love one another (Jn 13:34). Love is a mark of a disciple of Jesus as the He says: This is how all will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another (Jn 13:35). Jesus loved us first. Let's be about loving Him and loving one another then with all the joy and suffering love brings, including what we hear in our account from the Acts of the Apostles. There, Paul and Barnabas tell us that "it is necessary for us to undergo many hardships to enter the kingdom of God" (Acts 14:22). So be it as Servant of God Elisabeth Leseur notes:

Suffering works mysteriously, first in ourselves by a kind of inner renewal, and also in others, perhaps far away, without ever knowing here on earth what we are accomplishing by it.

Suffering is an act. Christ on the Cross has perhaps done more for humanity than Christ speaking and acting in Galilee or Jerusalem. Suffering creates life; it transforms all it touches, all it strikes.

(E. Leseur, The Secret Diary of Elisabeth Leseur, pp. 164-165)

We join Paul and Barnabas then and exhort one another to persevere in the faith (Acts 14:22). We have so many in the communion of saints to help us. Those formally recognized along with the saints "next door" (Pope Francis, Gaudete et exsultate, 6-9), in heaven and on earth, inspire us to keep going.

SAINT TITUS BRANDSMA,

SAINT MARIE RIVIER,

SAINT CAROLINA SANTOCANALE,

SAINT CHARLES DE FOUCAULD,

SAINT DEVASAHAYAM PILLAI,

SAINT CESAR DE BUS,

SAINT LUIGI MARIA PALAZZOLA,

SAINT JUSTIN RUSSOLILLO,

SAINT ANNA MARIA RUBATTO,

SAINT MARIA DOMENICA MANTOVANI,

SAINT ISIDORE THE FARMER,

SAINT CARTHAGE,

BLESSED GILES OF VAOZELA,

BLESSED ANDREW ABELLON,

PRAY FOR US.

Today's photo: This lush vanilla leaf makes for a peaceful scene. From faithful reader, Linda, on a walk at Redwoods. Thank you. Let your faithful ones praise you.

© Gertrude Feick 2022

Feast of Saint Matthias, Apostle

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

Readings of the Day

Rule of Saint Benedict: Ch 2:23-29 Qualities of the Abbot

Mass: Acts 1:15-17, 20-26; Resp Ps 113; Jn 15:9-17

Above the heavens is His glory.

MARY, QUEEN OF PEACE,

PRAY FOR US.

You, Lord, know the hearts of all.

(Acts 1:24)

On this Feast of Saint Matthias, we find ourselves back in Chapter 1 of the Acts of the Apostles, where one of the first tasks at hand for the Apostles is to find a successor for poor Judas. This was not without first devoting themselves with one accord to prayer, together with some women, and Mary the mother of Jesus, and His brothers (Acts 1:14). First things first. There is a job description for the successor, namely, that it was necessary that he accompanied the Eleven the whole time the Lord Jesus came and went among them, from the baptism of John on, up to and including witnessing to the Lord's resurrection (Acts 1:22). They proposed two, Joseph called Barsabbas, also known as Justus, and Matthias (Acts 1:23). They prayed, cast lots, and left the decision to the Holy Spirit (Acts 1:24). As it should be. Would be so trustworthy and turn matters over to the Holy Spirit. Not my will, but yours be done (Lk 22:42). We ask for the grace we need to keep Jesus' commandments: If you keep my commandments, you will remain in my love, just as I have kept my Father's commandments (Jn 15:10).

Being a follower of Christ means becoming conformed to Him who became a servant even to giving Himself on the Cross. Christ dwells by faith in the heart of the believer, and thus the disciple is conformed to the Lord. This is the effect of grace, of the active presence of the Holy Spirit in us.

(Pope Saint John Paul II, Veritatis splendor Splendor of Truth, 21)

Not to accept everything, but to understand everything; not to approve of everything, but to forgive everything; not to adopt everything, but to search for the grain of truth that is contained in everything.

To repulse no idea and no good will, however awkward or feeble.

To love souls as Jesus Christ loved them, unto suffering, unto death.

(E. Leseur, The Secret Diary of Elisabeth Leseur, p. 156)

SAINT MATTHIAS, 

PRAY FOR US.

Today's photo: From dear Maddy on foot from the Columbia River Gorge to Rowena Crest, in the Beaver State of Oregon. Blessed be the name of the Lord.

© Gertrude Feick 2022

Friday of the Fourth Week of Easter

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

Saint: Our Lady of Fatima; Saint Erconwald (-693); Blessed Imelda Lambertini OP (c.1321-1333)

Readings of the Day

Rule of Saint Benedict: Ch 1:16-22 Qualities of the Abbot 

Mass: Acts 13:26-33; Resp Ps 2; Jn 14:1-6

Serve the Lord with fear, and rejoice before Him.

MARY, QUEEN OF PEACE,

MARY, QUEEN OF THE MOST HOLY ROSARY,

SAINT JOSEPH, CORNERSTONE OF FAMILIES,

PRAY FOR US.

For starters on this Memorial of Our Lady of Fatima, remembering too that we are still in the Year of the Family, the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB) has invited the faithful to unite in a Day of Fasting and Praying the Rosary. There are several prayer intentions that can be found on the USCCB website, including these two:

For our nation, for the integrity of our judicial system, and that all branches of government be dedicated to seeking the common good and protecting the dignity and rights of the human person, from conception to natural death.

For Our Blessed Mother's intercession and guidance as the Church continues to walk with mothers and families in need, and continues to promote alternatives to abortion, and create a culture of life.

Secondly, Jesus offers support and solace in His loving heart: Do not let your hearts be troubled. You have faith in God; have faith also in me (Jn 14:1). I am the way, and the truth, and the life; no one comes to the Father, but by me (Jn 14:6), says the Lord. United in faith and prayer, with trust and hope, we follow Jesus to the Father.

The ardent need for justice, this benevolent flame within, this deep love for suffering and groaning humanity, all this is and can only be an unconscious turning toward this infinite Love and infinite Justice, toward this supreme Goodness that is God.

(E. Leseur, The Secret Diary of Elisabeth Leseur, pp. 151-152) 

OUR LADY OF FATIMA,

VENERABLE JEROME LEJEUNE,

SERVANT OF GOD ELISABETH LESEUR,

SAINT ERCONWALD,

BLESSED IMELDA LAMBERTINI,

PRAY FOR US.

Today's photo: This one makes me dizzy 😎 A recent guest and faithful reader captured this "look from reclining position" on our property. It is certainly cause for rejoicing before Him. With trembling rejoice!

© Gertrude Feick 2022

Thursday of the Fourth Week of Easter

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

Saints: Saints Nereus and Achilleus, Early Christian Martyrs; Saint Pancras, Roman Martyr; Blessed Jane of Portugal OP (1452-1490)

Readings of the Day

Rule of Saint Benedict: Ch 2:11-15 Qualities of the Abbot

Mass: Acts 13:13-25; Resp Ps 89; Jn 13:16-20

The favors of the Lord I will sing forever.

MARY, QUEEN OF PEACE,

PRAY FOR US.

When Jesus had washed the disciples' feet, He said to them:

Amen, amen, I say to you, no slave is greater than his master nor any messenger greater than then the one who sent him.

(Jn 13:16)

How might you wash another's feet today? 

To think is excellent;

to pray is better;

to love is everything.

(E. Leseur, The Secret Diary of Elisabeth Leseur, p. 174)

SAINTS NEREUS AND ACHILLES,

SAINT PANCRAS,

BLESSED HAND OF PORTUGAL,

PRAY FOR US.

Today's photo: Vielen herzlichen Dank, Schwester Daniela, aus der Schweiz. 

© Gertrude Feick 2022

Wednesday of the Fourth Week of Easter

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

Saints: Holy Abbots of Cluny, Saints Odo, Mailous, Odilo and Hugh; The Carthusian Martyrs (16th century)

Readings of the Day

Rule of Saint Benedict: Ch 2:1-10 Qualities of the Abbot

Mass: Acts 12:24-13Christ:5a; Resp Ps 67; Jn 12:44-50

May God bless us.

MARY, QUEEN OF PEACE,

PRAY FOR US.

The word of God continued to spread and grow.

(Acts 12:24)

Jesus cries out to us today: I came into the world as light, so that everyone who believes in me might not remain in darkness (Jn 12:46). Dear Lord, we believe, help our unbelief. May we receive the Light and, through word and deed, be shining lights for others. May all the people praise you, O God; may all the peoples praise you!

Christ must live in us, so that we might give Him to others.

(E. Leseur, The Secret Diary of Elisabeth Leseur, p. 162)

A simple contact can sometimes be the best sermon; a spark can start a great flame.

(ibid, p. 164)

HOLY ABBOTS OF CLUNY,

THE CARTHUSIAN MARTYRS,

PRAY FOR US.

Today's photo: Enjoy these fairy bells, fitting for a blessing. Thank you, dear Catherine.

© Gertrude Feick 2022