Monday of the Thirty-First Week in Ordinary Time

Respect Life Month

All Hallow's Eve 

60th Anniversary of the Beginning of the Foundation of Our Lady of the Redwoods Abbey

Saints: Saint Alfonso Rodriguez (1533-1617); Saint Wolfgang of Ratisbon, "The Great Almoner" (d. 994)

Readings of the Day

Rule of Saint Benedict: Ch 24 Degrees of Excommunication

Mass:  Ph 2:1-4; Resp Ps 131; Lk 14:12-14

In you, O Lord, I have found my peace.

MARY, QUEEN OF PEACE,

MARY, QUEEN OF THE MOST HOLY ROSARY,

SAINT JOSEPH, DEFENDER OF LIFE,

SAINT MICHAEL THE ARCHANGEL,

PRAY FOR US.

Do nothing out of selfishness or out of vainglory; rather, humbly regard others as more important than yourselves, each looking out not for his own interests, but also everyone for those of others.

(Ph 2:3-4)

Happy All Hallow's Eve and the 60th anniversary of the beginning of the foundation of Our Lady of the Redwoods Abbey. We could not have more fitting readings for a day like this, celebrating the Vigil of All Saints' Day and the beginnings of a monastic foundation rooted in the Gospel and the teachings of Saint Benedict of Nursia. We hear echoes of Saint Paul's Letter to the Philippians in Saint Benedict's Chapter 72, The Good Zeal of Monks. There, our holy father Benedict tells us about the good zeal that monks and nuns must foster with fervent love (see RB 72:3). Good zeal is when no one pursues what he judges better for himself, but instead, what he judges better for someone else (see RB 72:7). And our Gospel from Saint Luke is all about hospitality, a service followers of Saint Benedict know well. Proper honor must be shown to all, especially those who share our faith and to pilgrims (see RB 53:2). May we be blessed in the Name of the Lord. 

On a day like this then, we turn to Saint Paul who writes: "If there is any encouragement in Christ, any solace in love, any participation in the Spirit, any compassion and mercy, complete my joy by being of the same mind, with the same love, united in heart, thinking one thing" (Ph 2:1-2). United in faith and prayer, we go forth and prefer nothing whatever to Christ, and may He bring us all together to everlasting life (RB 72:11-12). Amen. 

SAINT ALFONSO RODRIGUEZ,

SAINT WOLFGANG OF RATISBON,

PRAY FOR US.

Today's photo: Our entrance. All guests who present themselves are to be welcomed as Christ (RB 53:1).

© Gertrude Feick 2022

Thirty-First Sunday in Ordinary Time

Respect Life Month

In other years: Saint Marcellus (d. 300); The Blessed Martyrs of Winchester (16th century); Blessed Dominic Collins (1566-1602); Blessed Maria Teresa Tauscher (1855-1938)

Readings of the Day

Rule of Saint Benedict: Ch 23 Excommunication for Faults 

Mass: Wisdom 11:22-12:2; Resp Ps 145; 2 Th 1:11-2:2; Lk 19:1-10

 I will extol You, O my God and my King.

MARY, QUEEN OF PEACE,

MARY, QUEEN OF THE MOST HOLY ROSARY,

SAINT JOSEPH, DEFENDER OF LIFE,

SAINT MICHAEL THE ARCHANGEL, 

PRAY FOR US.

You have mercy on all, because you can do all things; 

and your overlook people's sins that they may repent.

(Wisdom 11:23)

The words proclaimed from the Book of Wisdom in our First Reading at Mass take me to the Prologue of the Holy Rule of Saint Benedict, where our holy father Benedict tells us that the Lord waits for us daily to translate into action, as we should, His holy teachings. Therefore our life span has been lengthened by way of a  truce, that we may amend our misdeeds. As the Apostle says: Do you know that the patience of God is leading you to repent? And indeed the Lord assures us in His love: I do not wish the death of a sinner, but that he turn back to me and live (see Rule of Saint Benedict, Prologue 35-38). How often our Lord turns a blind eye to our misdeeds, and those things that distance us from His love, and keep us from loving our neighbor as ourselves. Jesus even stays at the houses of sinners, those shorter in stature like Zacchaeus in today's Gospel (see Lk 19:1-10), and those not so short in stature too. I guess that means just about all of us, no matter our statures or status. Our Lord is kind and merciful, slow to anger, abounding in love and mercy. Thank you. 

Our prayer today, for one another, our loved ones, and those who are in need of prayers, can be with the words of Saint Paul: "We always pray for you, that our God may make you worthy of His calling and powerfully bring to fulfillment every good purpose and every effort of faith, that the name of our Lord Jesus may be glorified in you, and you in Him, in accord with the grace of our God and Lord Jesus Christ" (2 Th 1:11-12). United in faith and prayer then, with the mercy of God, may we abandon our wickedness and believe in the Lord and lover of souls (see Wisdom 11:26; 12:2). 

SAINT MARCELLUS,

THE BLESSED MARTYRS OF WINCHESTER,

BLESSED DOMINIC COLLINS,

BLESSD MARIA TERESA TAUSCHER,

PRAY FOR US.

Today's photo: Yesterday morning I was on the prowl for a Sunday rose and found this one, still with drops of dew. Every day I will bless You.

© Gertrude Feick 2022

Saturday of the Thirtieth Week in Ordinary Time

Respect Life Month

Saturday Memorial of the Blessed Virgin Mary

Saints: The Blessed Martyrs of Douai College (18th-17th century); Saint Colman MacDuagh (-632); Blessed Maria Restituta Kafka (1894-1943)

Readings of the Day

Rule of Saint Benedict: Ch 22 The Sleeping Arrangements of the Monks

Mass: Ph 1:18b-26; Resp Ps 42; Lk 14:1, 7-11

My soul is thirsting for the living God.

MARY, QUEEN OF PEACE,

MARY, QUEEN OF THE MOST HOLY ROSARY,

SAINT JOSEPH, DEFENDER OF LIFE,

SAINT MICHAEL THE ARCHANGEL,

PRAY FOR US.

My eager expectation and hope is that I will not be put to shame in any way, but that with all boldness, now as always, Christ will be magnified in my body, whether by life or death.

For to me life is Christ, and death is gain.

(Ph 1:20-21)

Jesus' last words in today's Gospel are that "the one who humbles himself will be exalted" (Lk 14:11). His blessed Mother Mary, our Mother, can certainly teach us a thing or two about humility. My soul proclaims the greatness of the Lord; my spirit rejoices in God my savior. For He has looked upon His handmaid's lowliness; behold, from now on all ages will call me blessed (Lk 1:46-48). We ask the Blessed Virgin Mary, help of all Christians, to pray for us.

As my Sovereign and my Queen,

Preside over all my actions,

Direct all my enterprises,

Remedy all their defects.

(Barolomeo de Los Rios, 1580-1652)

When the world will end, then She will rest! But while the world is going on, She is so busy taking care of all of us!

(The Cure of Ars Saint John Baptist Marie Vianney, 1786-1859) 

THE BLESSED MARTYRS OF DOUAI COLLEGE,

BLESSED MARIA RESTITUTA KAFKA,

SAINT COLMAN MACDUAGH,

PRAY FOR US.

Today's photo: Yesterday morning, while on the lookout for something for Our Lady, I found this. When shall I go and behold the face of God?

© Gertrude Feick 2022

Feasts of Saints Simon and Jude, Apostles

Respect Life Month

Readings of the Day

Rule of Saint Benedict: Ch 21 The Deans of the Monastery

Mass: Eph 2:19-22; Resp Ps 19; Lk 6:12-16

Their message goes out through all the earth.

MARY, QUEEN OF PEACE,

MARY, QUEEN OF THE MOST HOLY ROSARY,

MARY, QUEEN OF APOSTLES,

SAINT JOSEPH, DEFENDER OF LIFE,

SAINT MICHAEL THE ARCHANGEL,

PRAY FOR US.

For You have built your Church to stand firm on apostolic foundations, to be a lasting sign of Your holiness on earth and offer all humanity Your heavenly teaching. 

(Preface II of the Apostles: The Apostolic Foundation and Witness)

Jesus Christ Himself is the capstone. With Him, the apostles and prophets are the foundation. It is through Jesus that the whole structure is held together and grows sacred in the Lord. In Him, faithful readers, we are also being built together into a dwelling place of God in the Spirit (see Eph 2:19-22). Jesus called the disciples to Himself (see Lk 6:13); He calls us. Heart of Jesus, salvation of those who trust in You, have mercy on us. 

As yesterday with the awesome reading from Saint Paul's Letter to the Ephesians, look to the Letter of Saint Jude, a brief but powerful one of 25 verses. Saint Jude encourages us as we are reminded that there is nothing new under that sun. We must be strong and firm in our faith; we must hold ground. Jude even writes about Saint Michael the Archangel (see Jude 9). Saint Jude is the patron saint of hopeless causes, forgotten causes, hospital workers, hospitals, impossible causes, lost causes, and the diocese of Saint Petersburg, Florida. 

Beloved, build yourselves up in your most holy faith; pray in the holy Spirit. Keep yourselves in the love of God and wait for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ that leads to eternal life. On those who waver, have mercy; save others by snatching them out of the fire; on others have mercy with fear, abhorring even the outer garment stained by the flesh.

(Jude 20-23)

Our Lord Jesus Christ has appointed certain men to be guides and teachers of the world and stewards of His divine mysteries. Now He bids them to shine out like lamps ...

These holy men became the pillar and mainstay of truth, and Jesus said that He was sending them just as the Father had sent Him ...

From what He said they would gather that it was their vocation to call sinners to repentance, to heal those who were sick whether in body or spirit, to seek in all their dealings never to do their own will but the will of Him who sent them, and as far as possible to save the world by their teaching. 

Surely it is in all these respects that we find His holy disciples striving to excel. To ascertain this is no great labor; a single reading of the Acts of the Apostles or of Saint Paul's writings is enough.

(From a commentary on the gospel of John by Saint Cyril of Alexandria, bishop, in Office of Readings, October 28)

SAINTS SIMON AND JUDE,

PRAY FOR US.

Today's photo: Mount Rainier from the archives, 2017. It was my first and only trip to Mount Rainier National Park for camping and hiking with the Ottos. The heavens declare the glory of God.

© Gertrude Feick 2022

Thursday of the Thirtieth Week in Ordinary Time

Respect Life Month

Saint: Saint Otteran (d. 548); Saint Frumentius, Patron Saint of Ethiopia (d. 380)

Readings of the Day

Rule of Saint Benedict: Ch 20 Reverence in Prayer

Mass: Eph 6:10-20; Resp Ps 144; Lk 13:31-35

Blessed be the Lord, my rock!

MARY, QUEEN OF PEACE,

MARY, QUEEN OF THE MOST HOLY ROSARY,

SAINT JOSEPH, DEFENDER OF LIFE,

SAINT MICHAEL THE ARCHANGEL,

PRAY FOR US.

Draw your strength from the Lord and from His mighty power.

(Eph 6:10)

I had the privilege of proclaiming the First Reading at Mass this morning, more from the Letter of Saint Paul to the Ephesians, a letter packed full of good news. As far as I am concerned, this morning's reading is awesome. How true it is that we need all the strength the Lord can give us. It is to the Lord that we turn then and put on His armor so that we may be able to stand firm against the tactics of the Devil (see Eph 6:13). United in faith and prayer, we must resist and hold our ground. And we have more cause to continue to invoke Saint Michael the Archangel, each and every day. Blessed be the Lord, my rock, who trains my hands for battle, my fingers for war. My mercy and my fortress, my stronghold, my deliverer.

With all prayer and supplication, pray at every opportunity in the Spirit.

(Eph 6:18)

SAINT OTTERAN,

SAINT FRUMENTIUS,

PRAY FOR US.

Today's photo: What about our saint of the day, Saint Otteran. He was abbot of Meath and later came to Iona, where he died and was buried. Is that Iona, you say? Well, it just so happens that the rock you see here is from the island of Iona. It's true folks. It came all the way from Iona and I have had it since 2015. From Iona to Redwoods and everywhere in between. This is one well-traveled rock.

© Gertrude Feick 2022

Wednesday of the Thirtieth Week in Ordinary Time

Respect Life Month

Saints: Saint Chad (-672); Saint Cedd (-664): Pope Saint Evaristus (d. 107)

Readings of the Day

Rule of Saint Benedict: Ch 19 The Discipline of the Psalmody

Mass: Eph 6:1-9; Resp Ps 145; Lk 13:22-30

The Lord lifts up all who are falling.

MARY, QUEEN OF PEACE,

MARY, QUEEN OF THE MOST HOLY ROSARY,

SAINT JOSEPH, DEFENDER OF LIFE,

SAINT MICHAEL THE ARCHANGEL,

PRAY FOR US.

Let us consider how we ought to behave in the presence of God and His angels, and let us stand to sing the psalms in such a way that our minds are in harmony with our voices.

(Rule of Saint Benedict, 19:6-7)

If we do the will of God from the heart (see Eph 6:6), we will enter through the narrow gate (see Lk 13:24). Jesus never said it was going to be easy. And as Saint Benedict tells us, "Do not be daunted immediately by fear and run away from the road that leads to salvation. It is bound to be narrow at the outset" (RB Prologue 48). We pray for the strength to keep going. Not my will, Lord, be done, but Yours. 

Let us put on unity of mind, thinking humble thoughts, exercising self-control, keeping ourselves free from all backbiting and slander, being righteous in deed, and not in word only ...

It is our duty then to be eager to do good, for everything is from God ... He urges us, who believe in Him with all our heart, not to be idle or careless in any good work. Our boasting and our confidence must rest on Him. Let us be subject to His will.

(From a letter to the Corinthians by Saint Clement, pope, in Office of Readings, Thirtieth Week in Ordinary Time, Wednesday)

SAINT CHAD,

SAINT CEDD,

POPE SAINT EVARISTUS,

PRAY FOR US.

Saints of the Day: Saints Chad and Cedd were brothers, both educated at Lindisfarne under Saint Aidan (d. 651). And a fun fact you've heard before is that I know a Chad and a Cedd, both Benedictine monks in the UK. 

Today's photo: This one from the archives, 2019. And raises up all who are bowed down.

© Gertrude Feick 2022

Tuesday of the Thirtieth Week in Ordinary Time

Respect Life Month

Saints: Saint Frey Galvao, First Brazilian-born Saint (1739-1822); Saints Crispin and Crispinian,** Brothers, Preachers and Martyrs in 3rd century Gaul (modern day France)

Readings of the Day

Rule of Saint Benedict: Ch 18:20-25 The Order of the Psalmody

Mass: Eph 5:21-33; Resp Ps 128; Lk 13:18-21

Blessed are you who fear the Lord.

MARY, QUEEN OF PEACE,

MARY, QUEEN OF THE MOST HOLY ROSARY,

SAINT JOSEPH, DEFENDER OF LIFE,

SAINT MICHAEL THE ARCHANGEL,

PRAY FOR US.

Be subordinate to one another out of love for Christ.

(Eph 5:21)

The first line of today's reading from Saint Paul's Letter to the Ephesians is fitting for all of us. It is in the same way that Saint Benedict teaches us to foster good zeal with fervent love. We should try to be the first show respect to the other, and pursue not what we judge better for ourselves, but instead, what we judge better for someone else (see Rule of Saint Benedict, 72:3, 4, 7). It is also the same fervent love, good zeal, respect, and reverence that a husband and wife give to one another. We pray especially today for all married couples, that they may grow in love for the Lord, and grow then in their love for one another. Each one of you should love his wife as himself, and the wife should respect her husband (Eph 5:21). The family that prays together, stays together. 

Christ loved the Church and handed Himself over for her to sanctify her, cleansing her by the bath of water with the word, that He might present to Himself the Church in splendor, without spot or wrinkle or any such thing, that she might be holy and without blemish.

(Eph 5:25-27)

May Christ dwell in our hearts through faith, and may charity be the root and foundation of our life.

(See Eph 3:17)

SAINT FREY GALVAO,

SAINTS CRISPIN AND CRISPINIAN,

PRAY FOR US.

** About two of the saints of the day, the twin brothers Crispin and Crispinian. We hear about them in Shakespeare's Henry V, Act 4, when the king rouses the English forces to victory against fearful odds at the battle of Agincourt. "This day is called the feast of Crispian: He that outlives this day, and comes safe home/Will stand a tip-toe when the day is named, And rouse him at the name of Crispian." Many can call Saints Crispin and Crispian their patron saints including cobblers, glove makers, lace workers, leather workers, saddle makers, saddlers, shoemakers, tanners and weavers. (See "Saint of the Day," in The Catholic Loop, October 25, 2022).

Today's photo: Blessed shall you be, and favored.

© Gertrude Feick 2022

Monday of the Thirtieth Week in Ordinary Time

Respect Life Month

Saints: Saint Antony Mary Claret, Bishop (1807-1870); Saint Magliore (-575)

Readings of the Day

Rule of Saint Benedict: Ch 18:12-19 The Order of the Psalmody

Mass: Eph 4:32-5:8; Resp Ps 1; Lk 13:10-17

He is like a tree planted near running water.

MARY, QUEEN OF PEACE,

MARY, QUEEN OF THE MOST HOLY ROSARY,

SAINT JOSEPH, DEFENDER OF LIFE,

SAINT MICHAEL THE ARCHANGEL,

PRAY FOR US.

Be kind to one another, compassionate, forgiving one another as God has forgiven you in Christ.

(Eph 4:32)

Welcome to Monday. Thoughts continue to go to the woman in today's Gospel "who for eighteen years had been crippled by a spirit; she was bent over, completely incapable of standing erect" (Lk 13:11). Eighteen years. Jesus saw her though; He called her. Woman, you are set free of your infirmity (Lk 13:12). Then He laid His hands on her, and she at once stood up straight and glorified God (Lk 13:13). Jesus sees you; He calls you by name. Be set free from your infirmities. Receive His healing touch, for the little and not so little infirmities that keep you from loving Him, your neighbor, and yourself. United in faith and prayer, we stand tall, glorify God, and live as children of light. I believe, help my unbelief. 

The love of Christ arouses us, urges us to run, and to fly, lifted on the wings of holy zeal. The man who truly loves God also loves his neighbor ... The zealous man desires and achieves all great things and he labors strenuously so that God may always be better known, loved and served in this world and in the life to come, for this holy love is without end.

(From a work by Saint Anthony Mary Claret, bishop, in Office of Readings, October 24)

SAINT ANTONY MARY CLARET,

SAINT MAGLIORE,

PRAY FOR US.

Today's photo: Silver Falls State Park, Silverton, OR. The Lord watches over the way of the just.

© Gertrude Feick 2022

Thirtieth Sunday in Ordinary Time

Respect Life Month

World Mission Sunday

In other years: Saint John of Capistrano, Franciscan (Friars Minor), Patron of Military Chaplains (1386-1456); Saint Ethelflaeda (10th century); Saint Severinus Boethius (d. 524)

Readings of the Day

Rule of Saint Benedict: Ch 18:7-11 The Order of the Psalmody

Mass: Sirach 35:12-14, 16-18; Resp Ps 34; 2 Tim 4:6-8, 16-16; Lk 18:9-14

Let my soul glory in the Lord.

MARY, QUEEN OF PEACE,

MARY, QUEEN OF THE MOST HOLY ROSARY,

MARY, QUEEN OF MISSIONARIES,

SAINT JOSEPH, DEFENDER OF LIFE,

SAINT MICHAEL THE ARCHANGEL,

PRAY FOR US.

The one who serves God willingly is heard; his petition reaches the heavens.

(Sirach 35:16)

I took note of something I read in an article this morning. In today's Gospel, the Pharisee spoke a prayer to himself (see Lk 18:11), while the tax collector would not even raise his eyes to heaven but beat his breast and prayed (see Lk 18:13). The Pharisee, so taken up with himself, doesn't even pray to God. Then the author of the article commented, "It's a funny thought if we didn't often do the same thing."* Hmm. O God, be merciful to me a sinner (Lk 18:13). Whoever exalts himself will be humbled, and the one who humbles himself will be exalted (Lk 18:14).

As we go forth, united in faith and prayer, "let our prayer be sincere, our humility truthful, and our hearts filled with love when we approach the One who hears us before we ask."** Heart of Jesus, source of mercy and reconciliation, have mercy on us.

To acknowledge one's sin [and] recognize oneself as being a sinner, capable of sin and inclined to commit sin, is the essential first step in returning to God.

(Pope Saint John Paul II, Reconciliatio et Paenitentia Reconciliation and Penance, 13)

SAINT JOHN OF CAPISTRANO,

SAINT ETHELFLAEDA,

SAINT SEVERINUS BOETHIUS,

PRAY FOR US.

*Fr. Paul D. Scalia, "The Disease and the Cure," in The Catholic Thing, October 23, 2022.

**Commentary on Psalm 51, in Magnificat, November 22, 2022, p. 316.

Fun fact: In other years, we would commemorate Saint Ethelflaeda, a 10th century Benedictine nun, Abbess at the Abbey of Romsey in the UK. The Abbey still stands, now as the Abbey Church of St Mary and St Ethelflaeda, a parish church in the Church of England. Things happen there, including concerts, funerals, weddings, christenings/baptisms, and more. 

Today's photo: The lowly will hear me and be glad.

 

© Gertrude Feick 2022

Saturday of the Twenty-Ninth Week in Ordinary Time

Respect Life Month

Blessed Virgin Mary

Saint: Pope Saint John Paul II (1920-2005)

Readings of the Day

Rule of Saint Benedict: Ch 18:1-6 The Order of the Psalmody

Mass: Eph 4:7-16; Resp Ps 122; Lk 13:1-9

Let us go rejoicing to the house of the Lord.

MARY, QUEEN OF PEACE,

MARY, QUEEN OF THE MOST HOLY ROSARY,

SAINT JOSEPH, DEFENDER OF LIFE,

SAINT MICHAEL THE ARCHANGEL,

PRAY FOR US.

"Everyone knows John Paul II: his face, his characteristic way of moving and speaking; his immersion in prayer and his spontaneous cheerfulness. Many of his words have become indelibly engraved in our memories, starting with the passionate cry with which he introduced himself to the people at the beginning of his pontificate: 'Open wide the doors to Christ, and be not afraid of him!' Or this saying: 'No one can live a trial life: no one can love experimentally.' An entire pontificate is condensed in words like these. It is like he would like to open the doors for Christ everywhere and wishes to open up to people the gate that leads to true life, to true love."

(Pope Benedict XVI)

There is plenty to be said about Pope Saint John Paul II, the saint we commemorate today. I am fortunate to have on my shelf several of his Encyclical Letters (he wrote 14 of them), as well as a few Apostolic Exhortations (he wrote 15 of those), and a few other treasures. I chose a couple of passages to pass along. Another source is the website for our country's shrine in Washington, D.C., the Saint John Paul II National Shrine. Today's reflection begins with something I learned there. The words from Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI provide us with a good summary of yet another great intercessor. Pope Saint John Paul II, help us to open wide the doors to Christ, and be not afraid of Him. United in faith and prayer, we go forth.

The breath of the divine life, the Holy Spirit, in its simplest and most common manner, expresses itself and makes itself felt in prayer. It is a beautiful and salutary thought that, wherever people are praying in the world, there the Holy Spirit is, the living breath of prayer. It is a beautiful and salutary thought to recognize that, if prayer is offered throughout the world, in the past, in the present, and in the future, equally widespread is the presence and action of the Holy Spirit, who "breathes" prayer in the heart of men and women in all the endless range of the most varied situations and conditions, sometimes favorable and sometimes unfavorable to the spiritual and religious life ...

The Holy Spirit is the gift that comes into man's heart together with prayer.

(Pope Saint John Paul II, Dominum et Vivificantem Holy Spirit Giver of Life, 65)

O Mary,

Mother of Mercy,

watch over all people,

that the Cross of Christ

may not be emptied of its power,

that man may not stray

from the path of the good

or become blind to sin,

but may put his hope ever more fully in God

who is "rich in mercy".

May he carry out the good works prepared

by God beforehand

and so live completely

"for the praise of His glory".

(Pope Saint John Paul II, Veritatis Splendor Splendor of Truth, 120)

POPE SAINT JOHN PAUL II,

PRAY FOR US.

Today's photo: This is the Pope John Paul II hybrid tea rose, known as one of the finest, most fragrant roses of all time. And we have them here at Redwoods. God is praised. 

© Gertrude Feick 2022

Friday of the Twenty-Ninth Week in Ordinary Time

Respect Life Month

Saints: Saint John of Bridlington (1319-1379); Blessed Diego Luis de San Vitores, Priest, and Saint Pedro Calungsod (-1672); Blessed Karl of Austria (1887-1922)

Readings of the Day

Rule of Saint Benedict: Ch 17 The Number of Psalms to Be Sung at These Hours

Mass: Eph 4:1-6; Resp Ps 24; Lk 12:54-59

The Lord's are the earth and its fullness.

MARY, QUEEN OF PEACE,

MARY, QUEEN OF THE MOST HOLY ROSARY,

SAINT JOSEPH, DEFENDER OF LIFE,

SAINT MICHAEL THE ARCHANGEL,

PRAY FOR US.

Lead a life worthy of the calling to which you have been called, with all lowliness and meekness, with patience, forbearing one another in love, eager to maintain the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace.

(Eph 4:1-3)

Take note. The first reading at Mass is one sentence. Go, Saint Paul, go! United, we are one Body and one Spirit, also called to the one hope of our call; one Lord, one faith, one baptism; one God and Father of all, who is over all and through all and in all (see Eph 4:4-6). Another sentence, not included today, is this: "But grace was given to each of us according to the measure of Christ's gift; (Eph 4:7). Let your light shine then, so the Light shines. Be on your guard, stand firm in the faith, be courageous, be strong (1 Cor 16:13). 

A peaceful spirit with oneself and with others is one of the greatest gifts of God. Follow that spirit and all his inspirations: he will work wonders in your neighbor and yourself.

(Jean-Pierre de Caussade, d. 1751, in Self-Abandonment to Divine Providence)

SAINT JOHN OF BRIDLINGTON, 

BLESSED DIEGO LUIS DE SAN VITORES,

SAINT PEDRO CALUNGSOD,

BLESSED KARL OF AUSTRIA,

PRAY FOR US.

Today's photo: The world and those who dwell in it.

 

© Gertrude Feick 2022

Thursday of the Twenty-Ninth Week in Ordinary Time

Respect Life Month

Saints: Saint Paul of the Cross (1694-1775); Blessed Daudi Okelo (1902-1918) and Jildo Irwa (1906-1918); Saint Irene (Iria) of Tomar (7th century)

Readings of the Day

Rule of Saint Benedict: Ch 16 The Celebration of the Divine Office during the day

Mass: Eph 3:14-21; Resp Ps 33; Lk 12:49-53

Upon those who hope for His kindness.

MARY, QUEEN OF PEACE,

MARY, QUEEN OF THE MOST HOLY ROSARY,

SAINT JOSEPH, DEFENDER OF LIFE,

SAINT MICHAEL THE ARCHANGEL,

PRAY FOR US.

I kneel before the Father, from whom every family in heaven and on earth is named ...

May Christ dwell in your hearts through faith.

(Eph 3:17)

Saint Paul's letter to the Ephesians is something else, both overwhelming and marvelous at the same time. Saint Paul, please help us to be rooted and grounded in love, that we may have the strength to comprehend with all the holy ones what is the breadth and length and height and depth, and to know the love of Christ that surpasses knowledge, so that we may be filled with all the fullness of God (Eph 3:17-19). Heart of Jesus, source of love and knowledge, have mercy on us.

Be constant in practicing every virtue, and especially in imitating the patience of our dear Jesus, for this is the summit of pure love. Live in such a way that all may know that you bear outwardly as well as inwardly the image of Christ crucified, the model of gentleness and mercy.

(From a letter by Saint Paul of the Cross, in Office of Readings, October 19)

SAINT PAUL OF THE CROSS,

BLESSED DAUDI OKELO AND JILDO IRWA,

SAINT IRENE OF TOMAR,

PRAY FOR US.

Today's photo: To deliver them from death and preserve them in spite of famine.

© Gertrude Feick 2022

Wednesday of the Twenty-Ninth Week in Ordinary Time

Respect Life Month

Saints: Saints John de Brebeuf and Isaac Jogues, priests, and their Companions (aka North American Martyrs, Canadian Martyrs, Jesuit Martyrs of North America, and Martyrs of France), (17the century); Saint Philip Howard (1557-1595); Saint Frideswide (-735); Saint Peter of Alcantara (-1562)

Readings of the Day

Rule of Saint Benedict: Ch 15 The Times for Saying Alleluia

Mass: Eph 3:2-12; Resp Ps (Is 12); Lk 12:39-48

I am confident and unafraid.

MARY, QUEEN OF PEACE,

MARY, QUEEN OF THE MOST HOLY ROSARY,

SAINT JOSEPH, DEFENDER OF LIFE,

SAINT MICHAEL THE ARCHANGEL,

PRAY FOR US.

May we never boast, except in the Cross of our Lord Jesus Christ. For the word of the Cross is the power of God to us who have been saved.

(Entrance Antiphon, Mass)

It may not be that we suffer martyrdom in the way the North American Martyrs did, but we are to imitate their firm and solid faith, self-sacrifice, courage, delight and joy in the face of the little and not so little things that come our way each and every day. Saints John de Brebeuf, Isaac Jogues and their companions were certainly faithful and prudent stewards; may they help us be the same. We can remember too something Isaac Jogues said: "What is suffered is known only to One for whose love and whose cause it is pleasing and glorious to suffer." God indeed is my savior; I am confident and unafraid. My strength and my courage is the Lord, and He has been by savior ... Give thanks to the Lord, acclaim His name.

For two days now I have experienced a great desire to be a martyr and to endure all the torments martyrs suffered. 

Jesus, my Lord and Savior, what can I give you in return for all the favors you have first conferred on me? ...

in truth I vow to you, Jesus my Savior, that as far as I have the strength I will never fail to accept the grace of martyrdom, if some day in your infinite mercy should offer it to me, your most unworthy servant.

I bind myself in this way so that for the rest of my life I will have neither permission nor freedom to refuse opportunities of dying and shedding my blood for you, unless at a particular juncture I should consider it more suitable to act otherwise at the time. Furthermore, I bind myself to this so that, on receiving the blow of death, I shall accept it from your hands with the fullest delight and joy of spirit. For this reason, my beloved Jesus, and because of the surging joy which moves me, here and now I offer my blood and body and live. May I die only for you, if you will grant me this grace, since you willingly died for me.

(From the spiritual diaries by Saint John de Brebeuf, priest and martyr, 

in Office of Readings, October 19)

SAINTS JOHN DE BREBEUF AND ISAAC JOGUES AND THEIR COMPANIONS,

SAINT PHILIP HOWARD, 

SAINT FRIDESWIDE,

SAINT PETER OF ALCANTARA,

PRAY FOR US.

Today's photo: Proclaim how exalted is His name.

© Gertrude Feick 2022

Feast of Saint Luke, Evangelist

Respect Life Month

Readings of the Day

Rule of Saint Benedict: Ch 14 The Celebration of Vigils on the Anniversary of Saints

Mass: 2 Tim 4:10-17b; Resp Ps 145; Lk 10:1-9

Let all your works give you thanks, O Lord.

SAINT LUKE THE EVANGELIST,

PRAY FOR US.

The Lord stood by me and gave me strength.

(2 Tim 4:17)

As we commemorate Saint Luke the Evangelist, why not open your Bible to the Gospel According to Luke and read a chapter, a short passage, your favorite parable, or whatever a random opening reveals? How is Our Lord and Savior instructing by words, or by actions, or through His silence? What is He teaching you through word, deed, and silence that will increase your love of Him and your love of your neighbor, perhaps the one you find most difficult? Peace ... the Kingdom of God is at hand for you (Lk 10:5, 9).

And as on all days, there are many people we know who are in need of prayers. Some of them may look to Saint Luke as their patron including artists, bachelors, bookbinders, brewers, butchers, doctors, glass workers, gold workers, goldsmiths, lacemakers, lace workers, notaries, painters, physicians, sculptors, stained glass workers, and surgeons. God is praised! May the Evangelist intercede for all of them.

Our Lord and Savior sometimes gives us instructions by words and sometimes by actions. His very deeds are our commands; and whenever He acts silently He is teaching us what we should do. For example, He sends His disciples out to preach two by two, because the precept of charity is twofold- love of God and love of one's neighbor.

(From a homily on the gospels by Saint Gregory the Great, pope, in Office of Readings, October 18)

MARY, QUEEN OF PEACE,

MARY, QUEEN OF THE MOST HOLY ROSARY,

MARY, QUEEN OF APOSTLES,

MARY, QUEEN OF EVANGELISTS,

SAINT JOSEPH, DEFENDER OF LIFE,

SAINT MICHAEL THE ARCHANGEL,

PRAY FOR US.

Today's photo: The glorious splendor of your Kingdom.

© Gertrude Feick 2022

Monday of the Twenty-Ninth Week in Ordinary Time

Respect Life Month

Saint: Saint Ignatius of Antioch, Bishop, Martyr (-107)

Readings of the Day

Rule of Saint Benedict: Ch 13:12-14 The Celebration of Lauds on Ordinary Days

Mass: Eph 2:1-10; Resp Ps 100; Lk 12:13-21

Know that the Lord is God.

MARY, QUEEN OF PEACE,

MARY, QUEEN OF THE MOST HOLY ROSARY,

SAINT JOSEPH, DEFENDER OF LIFE,

SAINT MICHAEL THE ARCHANGEL,

PRAY FOR US.

For by grace you have been saved through faith, and this is not from you; it is a gift of God; it is not from works, so no one may boast.

(Eph 2:8-9)

Essentially, if we are going to boast about anything at all, we should make our boast in the Lord (see 2 Cor; 10:17/Rule of Saint Benedict Prologue 32). All is gift; all is grace. Made in the image and likeness of God, we are united in faith and prayer and go forth. We ask another great intercessor, Saint Ignatius of Antioch, whose one desire was to belong to God, to help us be courageous and strong in our faith. Saint Ignatius was not going to let anyone, or anything stand in the way of his martyrdom. On his journey to Rome to be martyred, Ignatius was clear in his letter to the Romans: "I prefer death in Christ Jesus to power over the farthest limits of the earth. He who died in place of us is the one object of my quest. He who rose for our sakes is my one desire." Mary, Queen of martyrs, pray for us. 

For we are His handiwork, created in Christ Jesus for good works that God has prepared in advance that we should live in them.

(Eph 2:10)

SAINT IGNATIUS OF ANTIOCH,

PRAY FOR US.

Today's photo: Martyr red berries in honor of Saint Ignatius of Antioch and all the martyrs, past and present. He made us, we are His.

© Gertrude Feick 2022

Twenty-Ninth Sunday in Ordinary Time

Respect Life Month

In other years: Saint Hedwig (c.1174-1243); Saint Margaret Mary Alacoque (1647-1690); Saint Margaret d'Youville (c.1537-1584); Saint Richard Gwyn (c.1537-1584); Saint Gall (-646/650)

Readings of the Day

Rule of Saint Benedict: Ch 13:1-11 The Celebration of Lauds on Ordinary Days

Mass: Ex 17:8-13; Resp Ps 121; 2 Time 3:14-4:2; Lk 18:1-8

My help is from the Lord.

MARY, QUEEN OF PEACE,

MARY, QUEEN OF THE MOST HOLY ROSARY,

SAINT JOSEPH, DEFENDER OF LIFE,

SAINT MICHAEL THE ARCHANGEL,

PRAY FOR US.

Remain faithful to what you have learned and believed ...

be persistent whether it is convenient of inconvenient.

(2 Tim 3:14; 4:2)

Reflecting on the scene proclaimed in today's first reading, it was probably not convenient for Aaron and Hur to find a suitable rock for Moses to sit on, then support Moses's hands, one on one side and one on the other. Nevertheless, this needed to be done so that Moses's hands remained steady till sunset (Ex 17:12). It may not be convenient for us to open the Bible in the midst of our busy days either. Still, we have to keep at it, even if it is for a brief look, for as Saint Timothy writes, "all Scripture is inspired by God and useful" (2 Tim 3:16). No matter what, faithful readers, we must be persistent in our life of prayer and do what is needed so that we are competent and equipped for every good work (see 2 Tim 3:17). It is no wonder that Saint Benedict tells us that every time we begin a good work, we must pray to God most earnestly to bring it to perfection (see Rule of Saint Benedict, Prologue 4). Keep calling on the name of the Lord throughout the day; He will turn His ear to you and hear your words (Ps 17). O God, come to my assistance, O Lord, make haste to help me. Will the Son of Man find faith on earth? (see Lk 18:8). United in faith and prayer, we must do what is needed, whether it is convenient or not, and keep our faith alive. I believe, help my unbelief. Mary, Queen of prayer, pray for us.

Why the Lord should ask us to pray, when He knows what we need before we ask Him may perplex us if we do not realize that our Lord and God does not want to know what we want (for He cannot fail to know it) but wants us rather to exercise our desire through our prayers, so that we might be able to receive what He is preparing for us. His gift is great indeed, but our capacity is too small and limited to receive it ...

The deeper our faith, the stronger our hope, the greater our desire, the larger will be our capacity to receive that gift, which is very great indeed ...

In this faith, hope and love we pray always with unwearied desire ... the more fervent the desire, the more worthy will be its fruit. When the Apostle tells us: Pray without ceasing, he means this: Desire unceasingly that life of happiness which is nothing if not eternal, and ask it of Him who alone is able to give it.

(From a letter to Proba by Saint Augustine, bishop, in Office of Readings, Twenty-Ninth Sunday in Ordinary Time)

SAINT HEDWIG,

SAINT MARGARET MARY ALACOQUE,

SAINT MARGARET D'YOUVILLE,

SAINT RICHARD GWYN,

SAINT GALL,

PRAY FOR US.

Today's photo: White roses for a Sunday are always nice. He will guard your life.

© Gertrude Feick 2022

Saturday of the Twenty-Eighth Week in Ordinary Time

Respect Life Month

Saint: Saint Teresa of Avila (Saint Teresa of Jesus), Virgin, Doctor of the Church (1515-1582)

Readings of the Day

Rule of Saint Benedict: Ch 12 The Celebration of the Solemnity of Lauds

Mass: Eph 1:15-23; Resp Ps 8; Lk 12:8-12

O Lord, our Lord.

MARY, QUEEN OF PEACE,

MARY, QUEEN OF THE MOST HOLY ROSARY,

MARY, QUEEN OF DOCTORS OF THE CHURCH,

SAINT JOSEPH, DEFENDER OF LIFE, 

SAINT MICHAEL THE ARCHANGEL,

PRAY FOR US.

May the eyes of your hearts be enlightened.

(Eph 1:18)

Some days, and probably most, it is best to be enlightened by the saints we commemorate, and today we have another great saint and intercessor in Saint Teresa of Avila, also known as Saint Teresa of Jesus. A difficulty is deciding what to include for our edification. Here a few things I picked out.

Mental prayer in my opinion is nothing else than an intimate sharing between friends; it means taking time frequently to be alone with Him who we know loves us.

(St. Teresa of Avila, The Book of Her Life, Chapter 8, 5)

Whoever lives in the presence of so good a friend and excellent a leader, who went ahead of us to be the first to suffer, can endure all things. The Lord helps us, strengthens us, and never fails; He is a true friend ...

What more do we desire than to have such a good friend at our side, who will not abandon us in our labors and tribulations, as friends in the world do? Blessed are they who truly love Him and always keep Him at their side!

(St. Teresa of Avila, The Book of Her Life, 22: 6, 7)

Although it is a great grace from God to practise self-examination, yet "too much is as bad as too little," as they say; believe me, by God's help, we shall advance more by contemplating the Divinity than by keeping our eyes fixed on ourselves, poor creatures of earth that we are.

I do not know whether I have put this clearly; self-knowledge is of such consequence that I would not have you careless of it, though you may be lifted to heaven in prayer, while on earth nothing is more needful than humility. Therefore, I repeat, not only a good way, but the best of all ways, is to enter first by the room where humility is practised ...

our understanding and our will become more noble and capable of good in every way when we turn from ourselves to God.

(St. Teresa of Avila, The Interior Castle, Chapter II, 9, 10, 11)

With anything we desire to do, we might listen to what the Lord said to Teresa of Avila:

One day while I was anxiously desiring to help the order, the Lord told me: "Do what lies in your power, surrender yourself to me, and do not be disturbed about anything; rejoice in the good that has been given you, for it is very great; my Father takes delight in you, and the Holy Spirit loves you."

(Teresa of Avila, Spiritual Testimonies, 10)

As we commemorate Saint Teresa of Avila then, we look once more to a document from the Second Vatican Council and proclaim the wonderful works of Christ and His servants.

The saints have been traditionally honored in the Church and their authentic relics and images held in veneration. For the feasts of saints proclaim the wonderful works of Christ and His servants, and display to the faithful fitting examples for their imitation. 

(Sacrosanctum Concilium Constitution on the Sacred Liturgy, 111)

On the subject of saints, I include a passage from an Ann Patchett novel The Dutch House. I smiled when I read it the other day. It is from a conversation between Danny and Sandy. Sandy said of Danny's mother, 

"She's a saint." 

I smiled at her. No one was kinder than Sandy. "She's not a saint. Taking care of someone who doesn't know you doesn't make you a saint." 

Sandy nodded, took a sip of coffee. "I think it's hard for people like us to understand. To tell you the truth, it's unbearable sometimes, at least it is for me. I just want her to be one of us. But when you think about saints, I don't imagine any of them made their families happy."

"Probably not." I couldn't remember the saints themselves, much less about their families.

(Ann Patchett, The Dutch House, Harper, 2019, p. 327)

When we read the lives of the saints, it is not difficult to imagine that some of them did not make their families happy. Living with some of the saints must have posed many challenges for others. Two saints come quickly to mind, namely, Francis of Assisi and Catherine of Siena. On the other hand, Teresa of Avila has many good things to say about her family as related in the The Book of Her Life. She writes of her virtuous and God-fearing parents. Her father was charitable, compassionate, honest; he was an upright man. Her mother had many virtues. Even though she suffered much from sickness during her life (she died when Teresa was twelve), her mother was modest, beautiful, gentle and very intelligent; her death was a truly Christian one. Teresa's brothers and sisters (they were in all three sisters and nine brothers) did not in any way hold her back from the service of God. Teresa writes, "If I start to complain about my parents, I am not able to do so, for I saw nothing but good in them and solicitude for my own good" (The Book of Her Life, 1:1, 2 ,3, 4, 8).

SAINT TERESA OF AVILA,

SAINT CATHERINE OF SIENA,

SAINT THERESE OF LISIEUX,

SAINT HILDEGARD OF BINGEN,

POPE SAINT JOHN XXIII,

POPE SAINT PAUL VI,

POPE SAINT JOHN PAUL II,

PRAY FOR US.

Today's photo: This was picked just for Saint Teresa of Avila. I think she likes it. ☺How glorious is your name over all the earth!

© Gertrude Feick 2022

Friday of the Twenty-Eighth Week in Ordinary Time

Respect Life Month

Saint: Pope Saint Callistus I, Martyr (-222)

Readings of the Day

Rule of Saint Benedict: Ch 11 The Celebration of Vigils on Sunday

Mass: Eph 1:11-14; Resp Ps 33; Lk 12:1-7

Praise from the upright is fitting.

MARY, QUEEN OF PEACE,

MARY, QUEEN OF THE MOST HOLY ROSARY,

SAINT JOSEPH, DEFENDER OF LIFE,

SAINT MICHAEL THE ARCHANGEL, 

PRAY FOR US.

In Christ we were also chosen, destined in accord with the purpose of the One who accomplishes all things according to the intention of His will, so that we might exist for the praise of His glory, we who first hoped in Christ.

(Eph 1:11-12)

We are presented with more simultaneously overwhelming and marvelous words from Saint Paul. United in faith and prayer, we exist for the praise of God's glory. Whether inside the monastery, or outside it, whatever we do, we go about the daily "so that in all things God may be glorified" (1 Pet 4:11/Rule of Saint Benedict 57:9). And since we are privileged to read from Saint Benedict's chapters on the liturgical code these days, we can turn to many of the chapters for daily reminders. Here are a few: "Vigils begin with the verse: Lord, open my lips and my mouth shall proclaim your praise" (RB 9:1); "As soon as the cantor begins to sing 'Glory be to the Father,' let all the monks rise from their seats in honor and reverence for the Holy Trinity" (RB 9:7); "After the fourth responsory, the abbot begins the hymn 'We praise you, God' ... At the conclusion of the Gospel reading ... the abbot intones the hymn 'To you be praise'" (RB 11:8, 10); "The Prophet says: Seven times a day I have praised you ... At midnight I arise to give you praise ... we should praise our Creator for His just judgments ... let us arise at midnight to give Him praise" (RB 16:1, 4-5); "Sing praise wisely ... In the presence of the angels I will sing to you" (RB 19:4-5). Made in the image and likeness of God, male and female God created us, we reverence and honor all things given to us by God and use them for His glory.

For Sacred Scripture teaches that man was created "to the image of God,", is capable of knowing and loving his Creator, and was appointed by Him as master of earthly creatures that he might subdue them and use them to God's glory. "What is man that you should care for him? You have made him little less than the angels, and crowned him with glory and honor. You have given him rule over the work of your hands, putting all things under his feet."

But God did not create man as a solitary, for from the beginning "male and female he created them." Their companionship produces the primary form of interpersonal communion. For by his innermost nature man is a social being, and unless he relates himself to others he can neither live nor develop his potential.

Therefore, as we read elsewhere in Holy Scripture God saw "all that he had made, and it was very good."

(Gaudium et Spes Pastoral Constitution on the Church in the Modern World, 12)

POPE SAINT CALLISTUS I,

POPE SAINT JOHN XXIII,

POPE SAINT PAUL VI,

POPE SAINT JOHN PAUL II,

SERVANT OF GOD JEROME LEJEUNE,

PRAY FOR US.

Today's photo: For upright is the word of the Lord.

© Gertrude Feick 2022