Saturday of the Nineteenth Week in Ordinary Time

Saturday Memorial of the Blessed Virgin Mary

Saints: Pope Saint Pontian and Saint Hippolytus, Priest, Martyrs (-235); Blessed Michael J. McGivney, Founder of the Knights of Columbus (1852-1890)

Readings of the Day

Rule of Saint Benedict: Ch 59 The Offering of Sons by the Nobles or by the Poor

Mass: Ezk 18:1-10, 13b, 30-32; Resp Ps 51; Mt 19:13-15

A willing spirit sustain in me.

MARY, QUEEN OF PEACE,

HEART OF MARY, BLESSED AMONG ALL HEARTS,

PRAY FOR US.

Children were brought to Jesus that He might lay His hands on them and pray.

(Mt 19:13)

Welcome to Saturday, and this one is a good day to pray for all children, that they may be nurtured, cared for, loved, and formed in the faith of Our Lord Jesus Christ. And may all children know how much Jesus loves them. After He placed His hands on them, He went away (Mt 19:15). We entrust all children to the care and protection of Our Blessed Mother Mary. Mary, source of all consolation, pray for us.

To honor Our Lady, here is part of a meditation on Mary, by Cistercian monk Amadeus of Lausenne (c. 1110-1159), from Mary, Most Holy: Meditating with the Early Cistercians (Cistercian Publications, 2003), p. 87.

Consider

that when the mother gave birth

the face of the universe smiled

and the glad world applauded its Lord.

Reflect

that the clouds were swept away

and the sky put on its beauty

and the stars, saying here we are

blazed with joy

for Him.

And this, from Saint Teresa of Calcutta (1910-1997):

If you ever feel distressed during your day, call upon our Lady, just say this simple prayer: "Mary, Mother of Jesus, please be a mother to me now." I must admit, this prayer has never failed me. 

POPE SAINT PONTIAN AND SAINT HIPPOLYTUS,

BLESSED MICHAEL J. MCGIVNEY,

PRAY FOR US.

Today's photo: For the Blessed Mother. A heart contrite and humbled, O God, you will not spurn.

© Gertrude Feick 2022