Tuesday of the Fourth Week in Ordinary Time

The Month of January Dedicated to the Holy Name of Jesus

Catholic Schools Week

Buon viaggio Papa Francesco, off on his 40th Apostolic Journey, the 5th one to Africa, and this time to the Democratic Republic of Congo and South Sudan.

Saints: Saint John Bosco, Priest (1815-1888); Saint Alban Roe (1583-1642); Saint Thomas Green (c.1560-1642) 

Readings of the Day

Rule of Saint Benedict: Ch 7:34 Humility

Mass: Heb 12:1-4; Resp Ps 22; Mk 5:21-43   

May your hearts be ever merry!

MARY, QUEEN OF PEACE,

SAINT MICHAEL THE ARCHANGEL,

PRAY FOR US.

JESUS, BRIGHTNESS OF ETERNAL LIGHT,

HAVE MERCY ON US.

Since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us rid ourselves of every burden and sin that clings to us and persevere in running the race that lies before us while keeping our eyes fixed on Jesus, the leader and perfecter of faith.

(Heb 12:1-2)

Welcome to Tuesday of Catholic Schools Week and the last day of January 2023. And the Holy Father is off to the Democratic Republic of Congo and South Sudan. The Pontiff is not lacking in an adventuresome spirit. After the Holy Father returns from this trip, he will have visited 60 countries so far during his pontificate. Keep going, Papa Francesco! All said, it is a busy day. 

In the midst of Catholic Schools Week, we have the privilege to commemorate Saint John Bosco, "Apostle of Youth," patron saint of young people, apprentices, and Catholic publishers and editors. That should keep him busy enough. John Bosco essentially dedicated his life to help boys and young men in Turin, Italy, at the time of the industrial revolution. Many of them lived on the streets and were without work or education. Because John Bosco was so shocked to see how many boys ended up in prison before the age of 18, and as a result left to starve spiritually and even physically, he went to work determined to save as many people as he could from a life of degradation. His aging mother even helped him. Before it was all said and done, John Bosco established the Oratory of St. Francis de Sales (the Salesians), in honor of Saint Francis de Sales, helped Saint Mary Dominic Mazzarello form a similar group for girls, survived assassination attempts, and before he died, the Salesians had expanded in Europe and beyond and helped at 130,000 children in 250 houses where they could receive religious instruction, lodging, education, and work opportunities. And what did John Bosco have to say about all of that? "I have done nothing by myself; it was Our Lady who has done everything" through her intercession with God. Saint John Bosco died in the early hours of January 31, 1888, after imparting a message: "Tell the boys I shall be waiting for them all in Paradise." He was canonized by Pope Pius XI, Easter Sunday, April 1, 1934.*

Now, more than a few words from Don Bosco (he's one of my favorites).

You should bear patiently the bad temper of other people, the slights, the rudeness that may be offered you.

(Saint John Bosco)

Never read books you are not sure about ... even if supposing these bad books are very well written from a literary point of view. Let me ask you this: would you drink something you knew was poisoned just because it was offered to you in a golden cup?

(Saint John Bosco)

Since last Sunday was what I called "Beatitude Sunday," this one fits ...

Meekness was the method Jesus used with the apostles. He put up with their ignorance and roughness and even their infidelity. He treated sinners with a kindness and affection that caused some to be shocked, others to be scandalized, and still others to gain hope in God's mercy: Thus He bade us to be gentle and humble of heart.

(Saint John Bosco) 

The principal trap that the devil sets for the young people is idleness. This is a fatal source of all evil. Do not let there be any doubt in your mind that man is born to work, and when he does not do so he is out of his element and in great danger of offending God.

The chief thing is to take the burden on one's shoulders. As you press forward, it soon shakes down and the load is evenly distributed.

First tell the devil to rest, and then I'll rest too.

(Saint John Bosco)

When tempted, invoke your angel. Ignore the devil and do not be afraid of him: he trembles and flees at your guardian angel's sight.

(Saint John Bosco)

Love of our neighbor consists of three things: to desire the greater good of everyone; to do what good we can when we can; to bear, excuse, and hide other's faults.

(Saint John Bosco)

This is one of my favorite's and speaks of the character of John Bosco.

[A saint] was once asked, while playing happily with his companions, what he would do if an angel told him that in a quarter of an hour he would die and have to appear before the judgment seat of God. The saint promptly replied that he would continue playing because I am certain these games are pleasing to God.

(Saint John Bosco)

Not entirely unrelated is this from Pope Saint John Paul II, from an address to American bishops.

The mission of the Catholic school is the integral formation of students, so that they be true to their condition as Christ's disciples and as such work effectively for the evangelization of culture and for the common good of society.

(Address of the Holy Father Pope John Paul II to the Bishops of the Ecclesiastical Regions of Chicago, Indianapolis, and Milwaukee, on their Ad Limina visit, May 30, 1998, #2)

SAINT JOHN BOSCO,

SAINT FRANCIS DE SALES,

SAINT MARY DOMINIC MAZZARELLO,

SAINT ALBAN ROE,

SAINT THOMAS GREEN

SAINT THOMAS AQUINAS, 

SAINT JOHN HENRY NEWMAN,

POPE SAINT JOHN PAUL II,

PRAY FOR US.

*See Catholic News Agency, "St. John Bosco," for another lively account of a saint. 

Today's photo: Meet Father Cody Ross, Pastor of Sacred Heart Catholic Church, Bellingham, WA (the Evergreen State), Chaplain at Western Washington University Newman Center, and two of his altar servers, seen here on All Souls' Day 2022. I introduce you to Father Cody, a former student of mine I add proudly ☺, because his patron is Saint John Bosco. The padre takes after his patron in various and sundry ways. Not only does he resemble his patron in looks, Father Cody is committed to the youth at WWU. In addition, he is a gymnast just like his patron, who as a child used to "entertain his peers with juggling, acrobatics, and magic tricks before explaining a sermon he heard, or leading them in praying the Rosary." Father Cody even does backflips, now! In fact, he is probably doing more than a few today. Father Cody and his two faithful altar servers certainly give us reason for hope. And if nothing else should inspire us to be faithful to our respective vocations, to keep our eyes fixed on Jesus Christ, and go about it with joy and gladness of heart. Tomorrow you will meet Father Cody with the Newman students of WWU. Keep going, Father Cody, I am proud of you.

© Gertrude Feick 2023

Monday of the Fourth Week in Ordinary Time

The Month of January Dedicated to the Holy Name of Jesus

Catholic Schools Week

Saints: Saint Aedan of Ferns (c.550-632); Saint Martina, Roman Martyr (d. 228); Saint Hiacintha Marescotti, Roman Virgin (d. 1640)

Readings of the Day

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

Mass: Heb 11:32-40; Resp Ps 31; Mk 5:1-20   

Let your hearts take comfort, all who hope in the Lord.

MARY, QUEEN OF PEACE,

SAINT MICHAEL THE ARCHANGEL,

PRAY FOR US.

JESUS, MASTER TEACHER,

HAVE MERCY ON US.

Welcome to Monday in Catholic Schools Week. Throughout this week we will hear from Pope Saint John Paul II, and maybe some others too, about the value of a Catholic education, and the responsibility of parents, teachers, and students, to ensure that we are faithful to the tenets of our faith. For all Catholic educators, that they may form our children according to the light and truth of Christ.* 

And may all the faithful, along with the man dwelling among the tombs in the territory of the Gerasenes (see Mk 5:1-4), be released from the shackles and chains that bind us, those that keep us from the light and truth of Christ. 

In order that the Catholic school and the Catholic teachers may truly make their irreplaceable contribution to the Church and to the world, the goal of Catholic education itself must be crystal clear. Beloved sons and daughters of the Catholic Church, brothers and sisters in the faith: Catholic education is above all a question of communicating Christ, in helping to form Christ in the lives of others.

(Message of John Paul II to the National Catholic Educational Association of the United States, 

April 16, 1979) 

SAINT AEDAN OF FERNS,

SAINT MARTINA,

SAINT HIACINTHA MARESCOTTI,

SAINT THOMAS AQUINAS,

POPE SAINT JOHN PAUL II,

SAINT JOHN HENRY NEWMAN,

PRAY FOR US.

*"Suggested Prayer of the Faithful," Magnificat, Sunday, January 29, 2023.

Today's photo: A bit of beauty in the fountain found this past Saturday. How great is the goodness of the Lord.

© Gertrude Feick 2023

Fourth Sunday in Ordinary Time

The Month of January Dedicated to the Holy Name of Jesus

Catholic Schools Week

In other years: Blessed Archangela Giriani (1460-1495); Blessed Villana de'Botti OP (1332-1361)

Readings of the Day

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

Mass: Zephaniah 2:3; 3:12-13; Resp Ps 146; 1 Cor 1:26-31; Mt 5:1-12a

The Lord raises up those who are bowed down.

MARY, QUEEN OF PEACE,

SAINT MICHAEL THE ARCHANGEL,

PRAY FOR US.

JESUS, MEEK AND HUMBLE OF HEART,

HAVE MERCY ON US.

Seek the Lord, all you humble of the earth.

(Zephaniah 2:3)

Welcome to what could be called, "Beatitude Sunday." The Beatitudes, as our Catechism teaches us, are at the heart of Jesus' preaching ... the Beatitudes depict the countenance of Jesus Christ and portray His charity. Furthermore, they express the vocation of the faithful associated with the glory of His Passion and Resurrection; the Beatitudes illuminate the actions and attitudes of our lives as Christians (CCC 1716, 1717). We, as Christians and followers of the Lord Jesus Christ, are about Beatitude, and today is a good day to reflect on just what actions and attitudes will bring us authentic happiness or blessedness. And since, as Saint Augustine teaches, we all want to live happily, as it is unlikely that among the whole human race there is not who does not want to live happily,* united in faith and prayer, then, let us be people of the Beatitudes. Blessed are the poor in spirit; for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. 

The Beatitudes confront us with decisive choices concerning earthly goods; they purify our hearts in order to teach us to love God above all things.

(Catechism of the Catholic Church, 1728)

What choices will you make this week so that you make more room for God in your life so as to better love Him with your whole heart, your whole soul and all your strength, for "God alone satisfies."** Rejoice and be glad, for your reward will be great in heaven. 

How is it, then, that I seek you, Lord? Since in seeking you, my God, I seek a happy life, let me seek you so that my soul may live, for my body draws life from my soul and my soul draws life from you.

(Saint Augustine, Confessions, Chapter XX, 29)

BLESSED ARCHANGELA GIRIANI,

BLESSED VILLAIN DE'BOTTI,

SAINT THOMAS AQUINAS,

POPE SAINT JOHN PAUL II,

PRAY FOR US.

*See Augustine's De moribus ecclesiae Of the Morals of the Catholic Church, in Catechism of the Catholic Church (CCC), 1718

** See Saint Thomas Aquinas Expositio in symbolum apostolicum Explanation of the Apostles' Creed, in CCC 1718.

Today's photo: Something like this comes and goes quickly. Seen yesterday at midday, if this does not make one aware of her littleness, there may not be much else that can. The Lord shall reign forever.

© Gertrude Feick 2023

Saturday of the Third Week in Ordinary Time

The Month of January Dedicated to the Holy Name of Jesus

Saint: Saint Thomas Aquinas, OP, Priest, The Angelic Doctor; Patron of Catholic Schools (1225-1274)

Readings of the Day

Rule of Saint Benedict: Ch 7:19-23 Humility

Mass: Heb 11:1-2, 8-19; Resp Ps (Lk 1); Mk 4:35-41    

He has raised up for us a mighty savior.

MARY, QUEEN OF PEACE,

MARY QUEEN OF ANGELS,

PRAY FOR US.

JESUS, WORD MADE FLESH,

I HAVE MERCY ON US.

God so loved the world that He gave His only-begotten Son, so that everyone who believes in Him might have eternal life.

(Gospel Acclamation, Mass)

As we commemorate the great Saint Thomas Aquinas, Doctor Angelicus, we look to him for our commentary. Saint Thomas Aquinas, please help us to carry our crosses and follow the example of God's only-begotten Son in love, patience, humility, obedience, and detachment from all things that do not lead us to Him. I believe, help my unbelief. We pray for all Dominicans today, friars, nuns and sisters alike, and especially for the students, teachers, and staff at the Pontifical University of Saint Thomas Aquinas in Rome, all of them living and deceased. I spent several privileged years studying at the university, known as the Angelicum. And so did Pope Saint John Paul II! 

If you seek the example of love: Greater love than this no man has, than to lay down his life for his friends. Such a man was Christ on the cross. And if He gave His life for us, then it should not be difficult to bear whatever hardships arise for His sake.

If you seek patience, you will find no better example than the cross ...

If you seek an example of humility, look upon the crucified one, for God wished to be judged by Pontius Pilate and to die.

If you seek an example of obedience, follow Him who became obedient to the Father unto death ...

If you seek an example of despising earthly things, follow Him who is the King of kings and the Lord of lords, in whom are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge ...

Do not be attached, therefore, to clothing and riches, because they divided my garments among themselves. Nor to honors, for He experienced harsh words and scourgings. Not to greatness of rank, for weaving a crown of thorns they placed it on my head. Nor to anything delightful, for in my thirst they gave me vinegar to drink.

(From a conference by Saint Thomas Aquinas, priest, in Office of Readings, January 28)

SAINT THOMAS AQUINAS,

SAINT ALBERT THE GREAT,

PRAY FOR US.

Today's photo: I looked up yesterday afternoon and found this near the honey building where several of my favorite trees stand straight and tall. All the days of our life.

© Gertrude Feick 2023

Friday of the Third Week in Ordinary Time

The Month of January Dedicated to the Holy Name of Jesus

International Holocaust Remembrance Day

Saints : Saint Angela Merici (1470-1540); Pope Saint Vitalian (580-672) Blessed Edward Oldcorne (1561-1606); Saint Henry de Osso (1840-1896); Blessed Marcolino of Forli OP (1317-1397)

Readings of the Day

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

Mass: Heb 10:32-39; Resp Ps 37; Mk 4:26-34   

Bright as the noonday shall be your vindication.

MARY, QUEEN OF PEACE,

SAINT MICHAEL THE ARCHANGEL,

PRAY FOR US.

JESUS, THE SOWER,

HAVE MERCY ON US.

You need endurance to do the will of God and receive what He has promised.

(Heb 10:36)

Jesus, the Sower, has planted the seed of love and mercy into our hearts. What will you do today to water and care for that seed so that it continues to grow? May we be about love and charity this day, just like the great Italian Saint Angela Merici, founder of the Ursulines, a congregation under the protection of Saint Ursula (d. 383/385) and devoted to giving a Christian education to girls from poor families. It is said that when she died at the age of 70 on January 27, 1540, Angela's body remained incorrupt for 30 days. Saint Angela Merici was canonized in 1807 by Pope Pius VII.*

A good tree is not able to produce bad fruit.

He says: A good tree, that is, a good heart as well as a soul inflamed with charity, can do nothing but good and holy works. For this reason Saint Augustine said; Love, and do what you will, namely, possess love and charity and then do what you will. It is as if He had said: Charity is not able to sin ...

We should be impelled only by charity and zeal for souls.

(From a Spiritual Testament by Saint Angela Merici, virgin, in Office of Readings, January 27)

SAINT ANGELA MERICI,

SAINT URSULA,

BLESSED EDWARD OLDCORNE,

SAINT HENRY DE OSSO,

BLESSED MARCOLINO OF FORLI,

POPE SAINT VITALIAN,

PRAY FOR US.

*See Universalis "About Today," January 27, 2023, and Catholic News Agency "St. Angela Merici."

Today's photo: This one comes from Thursday afternoon's regimen on a sunny and warm day like we have had for some time now. Thanks be to God.  Take delight in the Lord.

© Gertrude Feick 2023

Thursday of the Third Week in Ordinary Time

The Month of January Dedicated to the Holy Name of Jesus

Saints: Saints Robert, Alberic and Stephen, Abbots and Founders of the Cistercian Order (11th-12th century); Saints Timothy and Titus, Companions of Saint Paul, Bishops

Readings of the Day

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

Mass: For the Solemnity of Saints Robert, Alberic and Stephen: Sirach 44:1, 10-15; Resp Ps 114; Heb 11:1-2, 8-16; Mk 10:24b-30   

For the memorial of Saints Timothy and Titus: 2 Tm 1:1-8 or Titus 1:1-5; Resp Ps 96; Lk 10:1-9

Who turned rock into pools of water.

MARY, QUEEN OF PEACE,

OUR LADY OF CITEAUX,

OUR LADY OF NAZARETH,

OUR LADY OF THE REDWOODS,

OUR LADY OF KLAARLAND,

OUR LADY OF NEW CLAIRVAUX,

MARY, QUEEN OF MONKS AND NUNS,

SAINT MICHAEL THE ARCHANGEL,

PRAY FOR US.

JESUS, THE WAY, THE TRUTH, AND THE LIFE,

HAVE MERCY ON US.

Now will I praise those godly men, our ancestors, each in his own time ...

Through God's covenant with them their family endures, their posterity for their sake.

(Sirach 44:1, 12)

Today we commemorate the Founders of the Cistercian Order, Saints Robert of Molesmes, Alberic of Citeaux and Stephen Harding, who set out from Molesme for Citeaux, called the "New Monastery", for the sake of a stricter, more secluded life according to the Rule of the Blessed Benedict (see Exordium Parvum, Ch Twelve, 5). Please pray for all the monks and nuns of the Order of the Cistercians of the Strict Observance and all Cistercians, that they may be renewed in their vocations, so that, by fidelity to their monastic way of life, which has its own mode of apostolic fruitfulness, they may continue to perform a service for God's people and the whole human race (see OCSO, Constitutions of the Nuns, C. 3, 4). And please, pray especially for us here at Our Lady of the Redwoods Abbey. Thank you for the being there, dear faithful readers. United in faith and prayer, may we all be faithful to our vocations, here, there, and everywhere, no matter our state in life. Amen, I say to you, there is no one who has given up house or brothers or sisters or mother or father or children or lands for my sake and for the sake of the gospel who will not receive a hundred times more now in the present age: houses and brothers and sisters and mothers and children and lands, with persecutions, and eternal life in the age to come (Mk 10:29-30).

The organization of the monastery is into bringing the nuns into close union with Christ, since it is only through personal experience of personal love for the Lord Jesus that the specific gifts of the Cistercian vocation can flower. Only if the sisters prefer nothing whatever to Christ will they be happy to persevere in a life that is ordinary, obscure and laborious. And may He lead them all together into eternal life.

(OCSO, Constitutions of the Nuns, C. 3, 5)

All these died in faith. They did not receive what had been promised but saw it and greeted it from afar and acknowledged themselves to be strangers and aliens on earth, for those who speak thus show that they are seeking a homeland.

(Heb 11:13-14)

SAINTS ROBERT, ALBERIC AND STEPHEN,

SAINT BENEDICT OF NURSIA,

SAINT SCHOLASTICA,

SAINT BERNARD OF CLAIRVAUX,

SAINT GERTRUDE THE GREAT,

SAINTS TIMOTHY AND TITUS,

PRAY FOR US.

Today's photo: The bend in the river as seen yesterday. Compare with the photo of the same bend featured Saturday, January 14, 2023. Stone into flowing springs.

© Gertrude Feick 2023

The Conversion of Saint Paul the Apostle

The Month of January Dedicated to the Holy Name of Jesus

Conclusion of the Week of Prayer for Christian Unity

Readings of the Day

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

Mass: Acts 22:3-16 or Acts 9:1-22; Resp Ps 117; Mk 16:15-18   

For steadfast is His kindness toward us.

MARY, QUEEN OF PEACE,

MARY, QUEEN OF APOSTLES,

SAINT MICHAEL THE ARCHANGEL,

PRAY FOR US.

JESUS, MASTER OF THE APOSTLES,

HAVE MERCY ON US.

Conversion means a willingness to see the truth of things and conform one's conduct.

(Antonin Sertillanges, OP, 1863-1948)

On the subject of conversion as we commemorate the Conversion of Saint Paul the Apostle, I pass along a story I read yesterday, shared by Pope Benedict XVI. It's a mediaeval story, as the pontiff said, "of a Jew who traveled to the papal court and who became Catholic. On his return, someone who knew the papal court well asked him: "Did you realize what sort of things are going on there?' 'Yes, he said, 'of course, quite scandalous things, I saw it all.' 'And you still became a Catholic,' remarked the other man. 'That's completely perverse!' Then the Jew said, 'It is because of all that that I have become a Catholic. For if the Church continues to exist in spite of it all, then truly there must be someone upholding her.'* It is the Rock upon which she stands, Jesus Christ the Lord. The Church's one foundation Is Jesus Christ the Lord: She is the new creation By water and the word: From heav'n he came and sought her To be his holy bride, With his own blood he bought her, And for her life he died ..." Yes, this is the Church that Saint Paul helped build. She stands firm through thick and thin. United, we must then stand firm in the faith and draw our strength from the Lord and from His mighty power. We put on the armor of God and in all circumstances, hold faith as a shield, to quench all the flaming arrows of the evil one. And take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God (see Eph 6:10-17). 

So then you are no longer strangers and sojourners, but you are fellow citizens with the holy ones and members of the household of God, built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, with Christ Jesus Himself as the capstone. Through Him the whole structure is held together and grows into a temple sacred in the Lord: in Him you are also built together into a dwelling place of God in the Spirit.

(Ephesians 2:19-22)

SAINT PAUL THE APOSTLE,

PRAY FOR US.

*See Joseph Cardinal Ratzinger, God and the World: A Conversation with Peter Seewald (Ignatius, 2002), pp. 63-64, p. 64 for this quotation.

Today's photo: This is from last week, another time when I stopped to look up. This tree has something to say about steadfastness and fidelity. The fidelity of the Lord endures forever.

© Gertrude Feick 2023

Tuesday of the Third Week in Ordinary Time

The Month of January Dedicated to the Holy Name of Jesus

Week of Prayer for Christian Unity

57th World Day of Social Communications: "Speak with the Heart Veritatem Facientes in caritate Doing the truth in charity"

Saints: Saint Francis de Sales, Bishop and Doctor, Patron Saint of Writers and Journalists (1567-1622); Saint Timothy Giaccardo, Priest (1896-1948) 

Readings of the Day

Rule of Saint Benedict: Ch 6 Restraint of Speech

Mass: Heb 10:1-10; Resp Ps 40; Mk 3:31-35    

I have waited, waited for the Lord.

MARY, QUEEN OF PEACE,

SAINT MICHAEL THE ARCHANGEL,

PRAY FOR US.

JESUS, OUR REFUGE,

HAVE MERCY ON US.

Whoever does the will of God is my brother and sister and mother.

(Mk 3:35)

Today we commemorate another great intercessor, Saint Francis de Sales, who way before the Second Vatican Council was all about the universal call to holiness, the call to perfection, especially among the lay faithful. All of us can still turn to his classic 17th century work, Introduction to the Devout Life, available today in recent editions and even in PDF form.* An excerpt from that text is found in today's Office of Readings, some of which I will quote below. For now, it occurs to me that since Saint Francis de Sales is the patron saint of writers and journalists, it is the World Day of Social Communications, and we are in Saint Benedict's Ch 6 Restraint of Speech, Saint Francis de Sales can help all of us. Saint Benedict begins the chapter with words from the psalmist: "I said, I have resolved to keep watch over my ways that I may never sin with my tongue, I have put a guard over my mouth" (Rule of Saint Benedict, 6:1). Since so much of what we say is better left unsaid, even things that we think are good, holy or constructive, we must be on guard so as to curb any evil speech (see RB 6:2-3) and remember that in a flood of words you will not avoid sin, and the tongue holds key to life and death. And strongly, Saint Benedict condemns vulgarity and gossip (RB 6:8) whatsoever. To Saint Francis de Sales then, we pray for help. The Bishop and Doctor was a man of love and moderation, qualities to admire, be inspired by, and imitate. He once said, "whoever wants to preach effectively must preach with love." With that in mind, we just may keep better watch over our ways, and reflect more before we speak, write, text, email or communicate in any way. 

When God the Creator made all things, He commanded the plants to bring forth fruit each according to its own kind; He likewise commanded Christians, who are the living plants of the Church, to bring forth the fruits of devotion, each one in accord with his character, his station, his calling ...

the practice of devotion must be adapted to the strength, to the occupation and to the duties of each [person] in particular ...

in whatever situations we happen to be, we can and we must aspire to the life of perfection.

(From The Introduction to the Devout Life by Saint Francis de Sales, bishop, in Office of Readings, January 24)

In an historical period marked by polarizations and contrasts - to which unfortunately not even the ecclesial community is immune - the commitment to communicating "with open heart and arms" does not pertain exclusively to those in the field of communications; it is everyone's responsibility.

(Message of His Holiness Pope Francis for the 57th World Day of Social Communications, January 24, 2023)

SAINT FRANCIS DE SALES,

SAINT TIMOTHY GIACCARDO,

PRAY FOR US.

*See, for example, Christian Classics Ethereal Library. 

Today's photo: Another little beauty from my cousin's garden that did well in the cold weather. He stooped toward me.

© Gertrude Feick 2023

Monday of the Third Week in Ordinary Time

The Month of January Dedicated to the Holy Name of Jesus

Week of Prayer for Christian Unity

Day of Prayer for the Legal Protection of Unborn Children

Saints: Saint Marianne Cope (183801918); Blessed Henry Suso OP (-1366); Saint Emerenziana, Roman Martyr; Saint Ildefonsus, Bishop of Toledo; Saint Ementiana, Roman Martyr

Readings of the Day

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

Mass: Heb 9:15, 24028; Resp Ps 98; Mk 3:22-30  

For the sake of your name, O Lord, give me life.

MARY, QUEEN OF PEACE,

MARY, PROTECTOR OF THE UNBORN,

JOSEPH, DEFENDER OF LIFE,

SAINT MICHAEL THE ARCHANGEL,

PRAY FOR US.

JESUS, AUTHOR OF LIFE,

HAVE MERCY ON US.

The Lord called me from birth, from my mother's womb He gave me my name.

(Is 49:1)

Welcome to Monday and in the dioceses of the United States of America, a Day of Prayer for the Legal Protection of Unborn Children. We get down on our knees then and pray for "the full restoration of the legal guarantee of the right to life and of penance for violations to the dignity of the human person through acts of abortion."* At the same time we pray for a greater respect for the dignity of the human person made in the image in likeness of God, from conception to natural death.

God our Creator,

we give thanks to you,

who alone have the power to impart the breath of life

as you form each of us in our mother's womb;

grant, we pray,

that we, whom you have made stewards of creation,

may remain faithful to this sacred trust

and constant in safeguarding the dignity

of every human life.

Through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son,

who lives and reigns with you in the unity

of the Holy Spirit,

God, for ever and ever.

Amen.

(Collect from the Mass for Giving Thanks to God for the Gift of Human Life)

When Elizabeth heard Mary's greeting, the infant leaped in her womb.

(Lk 1:41)

SERVANT OF GOD JEROME LEJEUNE,

SAINT MARIANNE COPE,

BLESSED HENRY SUSO,

SAINT EMERENZIANA,

SAINT ILDEFONSUS,

SAINT EMETIANA,

PRAY FOR US.

*See General Instruction of the Roman Missal, 373)

Today's photo: I asked my cousin who lives a little further south if there might be a flower in her yard to use for today's reflection. This one, along with some others, has done pretty well in the "cold, cold weather." With the dark background, the yellow bursts forth, holding onto life. Thank you, dear cuz. ☺💗My God is now my strength!

© Gertrude Feick 2023

Third Sunday in Ordinary Time

The Month of January Dedicated to the Holy Name of Jesus

Week of Prayer for Christian Unity

Sunday of the Word of God

In other years: Saint Vincent of Saragossa, Spanish Deacon and Martyr (-304); Saint Vincent Pallotti, Priest, Founder of the Union of the Catholic Apostolate (1795-1850); Saint Publius, First Bishop of Malta, Welcomed Saint Paul and his Companions to Malta; Blessed Anthony Della Chiesa OP (1394-1459)

Readings of the Day

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

Mass: Is 8:23-9:3; Resp Ps 27; 1 Cor 1:10-13, 17; Mt 4:12-23   

That I may gaze on the loveliness of the Lord.

MARY, QUEEN OF PEACE,

SAINT MICHAEL THE ARCHANGEL,

PRAY FOR US.

JESUS, WORD OF GOD,

HAVE MERCY ON US.

Be united in the same mind and in the same purpose.

(1 Cor 1:10)

Welcome to Sunday of the Word of God, instituted September 30, 2019, by Pope Francis in the Apostolic Letter Aperit illis He opened their minds to understand the Scriptures. The day, "devoted to the celebration, study and dissemination of the Word of God (3)" is set for the Third Sunday in Ordinary Time. On this day, then, when in our Gospel, Jesus calls Simon who is called Peter, and his brother Andrew, James, the son of Zebedee, and his brother John, all fishermen, to follow Him, let us turn to the Word in sacred Scripture and listen to Jesus calling us. What is it we need to do so that, at once, we leave behind our nets and boats that keep us from responding to the will of God in our lives? Pope Francis, in today's Angelus Address, put it this way: "And today, is there something Jesus is calling me to give up? What are the material things, ways of thinking, attitudes I need to leave behind to say 'yes' to Him?" I was inspired too by an obituary I read of a monk in our Order who died a couple of days ago at the age of nearly 100 years old, Brother Mary Joseph Szwedo, ocso. After entering the Abbey of Gethsemane in 1944 at the age of 17, Brother Mary Joseph went to Mepkin Abbey in 1952. As it turned out Brother was in the monastery for almost 80 years! Among those facts and other things, for example, "Daily he could be seen feeding the squirrels as he spoke with them in Polish which they obviously understood," ☺ I was inspired by this: "Having listened in formation as a lay brother at Gethsemane that when you are not working you are reading - scripture, theology and spiritual authors - he was an example to all the men entering Mepkin that we are as Saint Benedict tells us lifelong learners" (see ocso.org). 

For the word of the Lord is living and active.

(Heb. 4:12)

Ignorance of Scriptures is ignorance of Christ.

(Saint Jerome)

Listen readily to holy reading.

(Rule of Saint Benedict, 4:55)

The Scriptures rouse us when they say: It is high time for us to arise from sleep.

(RB Prologue 8)

May every day of our lives be shaped by a renewed encounter with Christ, the Word of the Father made flesh: He stands at the beginning and the end, and "in Him all things hold together "(Col. 1:17). Let us be silent in order to hear the Lord's word and to meditate upon it, so that by the working of the Holy Spirit it may remain in our hearts and speak to us all the days of our lives. In this way the Church will always be renewed and rejuvenated, thanks to the word of the Lord which remains for ever. Thus we too will enter into the great nuptial dialogue which concludes sacred Scripture: "The Spirit and the bride say: 'Come'. And let everyone who hears say: 'Come!'" The one who testifies to these things, says: 'Surely I am coming soon!'. Amen. Come, Lord Jesus!".

(Pope Benedict XVI, Post-Synodal Apostolic Exhortation Verbum domini The word of the Lord, 124)

Clothed then with faith and the performance of good works, let us set out on this way, with the Gospel for our guide, that we may deserve to see Him who has called us to His kingdom.

(RB Prologue 21)

SAINT VINCENT OF SARAGOSSA,

SAINT VINCENT PALLOTTI,

SAINT PUBLIUS,

SAINT PAUL AND COMPANIONS,

BLESSED ANTHOHY DELLA CHIESA,

PRAY FOR US.

Today's photo: A little peek into the Second Field. Contemplate His temple.

© Gertrude Feick 2023

Saturday of the Second Week in Ordinary Time

The Month of January Dedicated to the Holy Name of Jesus

Saint: Saint Agnes, Virgin and Martyr (-304)

Readings of the Day

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

Mass: Heb 9:2-3, 11-14; Resp Ps 47; Mk 3:20-21   

For king of all the earth is God.

MARY, QUEEN OF PEACE,

SAINT MICHAEL THE ARCHANGEL,

PRAY FOR US.

JESUS, GIVER OF ALL GOOD GIFTS,

PRAY FOR US.

Cleanse our consciences from dead works to worship the living God.

(Heb 9:14)

As followers, first and foremost, of Jesus, the Son of God, then of those who followed Him like Saint Agnes, the many other early Christian martyrs, Saint Benedict, and "all the saints who from their labors rest," we live by God's commandments every day; treasure chastity, harbor neither hatred nor jealously of anyone, and do nothing out of envy. We do not love quarreling, we shun arrogance, respect our elders and love the young. We pray for our enemies out of love for Christ, and if we have a dispute with someone, we make peace with her before the sun goes down. And finally, we never lose hope in God mercy (Rule of Saint Benedict, 4:63-74). If others say about us, "they are out of their minds," so be it (see Mk 3:21). We go forth, united in faith and prayer. Thank you for being there faithful readers. 

To us, also, your servants, who, though sinners, hope in your abundant mercies, graciously grant some share and fellowship with your holy Apostles and Martyrs: with ... Felicity, Perpetua, Agatha, Lucy, Agnes, Cecilia, Anastasia ...

(Eucharistic Prayer I, the Roman Canon)

SAINT AGNES,

PRAY FOR US.

Today's photo: Just before I entered the front door of the monastery yesterday afternoon, I looked up. The response of a friend to this was right on: “WOW! Stunning.”

© Gertrude Feick 2023

Friday of the Second Week in Ordinary Time

The Month of January Dedicated to the Holy Name of Jesus

Week of Prayer for Christian Unity

Saints: Pope Saint Fabian, Martyr (-250); Saint Sebastian, Early Christian Martyr, Patron Saint of Athletes; Blessed Cyprian Michael Tansi (1903-1964); Blessed Angelo Paoli (1642-1720)

Readings of the Day

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

Mass: Heb 8:6-13; Resp Ps 85; Mk 3:13-19  

Truth shall spring out of the earth.

MARY, QUEEN OF PEACE,

MARY, QUEEN OF APOSTLES,

SAINT MICHAEL THE ARCHANGEL,

PRAY FOR US.

JESUS, MASTER OF THE APOSTLES,

PRAY FOR US.

Jesus went up the mountain and summoned those whom He wanted and they came to Him.

(Mk 3:13)

Jesus summons you and me too. United in faith and prayer, we go to Him and do what is needed to build the kingdom of heaven here on earth. Please help us Simon Peter, James and John "sons of thunder", Andrew, Philip, Bartholomew, Matthew, Thomas, James the son of Alphaeus, Simon the Cananean, and Judas Iscariot, dear Judas. We may not be driving out demons, but we do our part wherever we find ourselves and implement a tool for good works (see Rule of Saint Benedict, Ch 4) of our choice, like guarding our lips from harmful or deceptive speech (RB,4:51). May we continue to respond to the universal call to holiness and be holy so that we can truly be called holy (RB 4:62).

This year I posted a friendly reminder for myself to include the following poem by Jeremy Driscoll, from his little book Some other Morning (Story Line Press, 1992).

JANUARY THE TWENTIETH

In the icy blue light

of the January afternoon

smoke

rises

straight up

from the cabin in the 

distant hills,

a strip of prayers

in the blue distance.

Nothing moves except

the silent sun, taking

its early winter dive

and

with this poem, I 

dive with the sun

and rise with the smoke

and crush this cold

stillness into a prayer

for whoever is there

in the hills making smoke

and say

Go, prayer, into the sky,

go slowly up with

the smoke

and bring back the sun

from its early dive

for the warmer and longer days,

the buzzing busy

time of the spring.

POPE SAINT FABIAN,

SAINT SEBASTIAN,

BLESSED CYPRIAN MICHAEL TANSI,

PRAY FOR US.

Today's photo: I ran back for the camera when I saw this on my way to the library yesterday afternoon. Salvation, along the way of His steps.

© Gertrude Feick 2023

Thursday of the Second Week in Ordinary Time

The Month of January Dedicated to the Holy Name of Jesus

Week of Prayer for Christian Unity

Saints: Saint John, Bishop of Ravenna (d. 595); Saints Marius, Martha, Audiface and Abachum, Martyrs on the Via Cornelia (3rd century); Saint Germanicus, Martyr of Philadelphia (2nd century); Saint Wulstan (1008?-1095); Saint Faolan (8th century); The Jesuit Martyrs of the Reformation in Europe (16th century); Blessed Andrew of Peschiera OP (1400-1485)

Readings of the Day

Rule of Saint Benedict: Ch 4:22-43 The Tools for Good Works

Mass: Heb 7:25-8:6; Resp Ps 40; Mk 3:7-12   

To do your will, O my God, is my delight.

MARY, QUEEN OF PEACE,

SAINT MICHAEL THE ARCHANGEL,

PRAY FOR US.

JESUS, MOST PATIENT,

HAVE MERCY ON US.

He told His disciples to have a boat ready for Him because of the crowd,

so that they would not crush Him.

(Mk 3:9)

With the scene in today's Gospel, my mind goes to a delightful poem I have shared before, by Hafiz, the beloved Persian poet of the 14th century. It goes like this ...

Two Giant Fat People

God and I have become

Like two giant fat people

Living in a tiny boat.

We keep

Bumping into each other

And laughing.

It does not seem, however, that Jesus was so amused by all those who were pressing upon Him to touch Him. At the same time, whenever unclean spirits saw Him they would fall down before Him. And if that wasn't enough, they would shout, "You are the Son of God" (see Mk 3:9-11). Unclean as they were, those spirits were certainly right about that. The whole scene seems rather chaotic and the peoples somewhat unruly. It is no wonder that Jesus was a little afraid for His life, and probably not laughing about it. In any case, Jesus, we want to touch You, just like all those people in the crowd. With our various diseases, some more visible than others, we too want to be healed. As true as that is, why is it that we spend so much time running away from You? Go figure.

To close, then, here is something I found last night. Take a look if you can (and a listen) at a song called, "Sneakin Up on Me," by Charlie Peacock. Part of the lyrics go like this ...

I try to run, find a place to hide - it's a futile plan,

Don't know when, I don't know how, but God always gets His man.

Sneakin up on me,

God keeps sneakin up on me,

When I least expect it, there He is,

Sneakin up on me.

United in faith and prayer, we go forth this day, alert and attentive to the presence of God, here, there, and everywhere. Sneaking up on me, God keeps sneakin up on me ... and when I least expect it, there He is, sneakin up on me ...

SAINT JOHN, BISHOP OF RAVENNA,

SAINTS MARIUS, MARTHA, AUDIFACE AND ABACHUM,

SAINT GERMANICUS,

SAINT WULSTAN,

SAINT FAOLAN,

THE JESUIT MARTYRS OF THE REFORMATION IN EUROPE,

BLESSED ANDREW OF PESCHIARA,

PRAY FOR US.

Today's photo: A little kindness goes a long way. And it's free to boot! Kindness too could be a summary of many of the Tools for Good Works as presented to us today, put this way, "Kill 'em with kindness," instead of anger, deceit, grudges, shallow greetings, not speaking the truth, cursing and speaking ill of others, grumbling, and so on (see Rule of Saint Benedict, 4:22-43). O, the loving kindness of the heart of our God. 

© Gertrude Feick 2023

Wednesday of the Second Week in Ordinary Time

The Month of January Dedicated to the Holy Name of Jesus

Week of Prayer for Christian Unity

Saints: Saint Margaret of Hungary OP (1242-1270); Saint Prisca of Rome, early Christian martyr, Patron Saint of Good Marriages

Readings of the Day

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

Mass: Heb 7:1-3, 15-17; Resp Ps 110; Mk 3:1-6  

In holy splendor.

MARY, QUEEN OF PEACE,

SAINT MICHAEL THE ARCHANGEL,

PRAY FOR US.

JESUS, THE GOOD SHEPHERD,

HAVE MERCY ON US.

Stretch out your hand.

(Mk 3:5)

With today's Gospel in mind, it may be a good day to think about our hearts, and whether or not there is any hardness in them. Jesus, not without anger, rightly, is grieved at hardness of hearts (see Mk 3:5). We pray then, for healing for our own hearts, then openness to others in our hearts of flesh, especially to those who have wandered from the fold for one reason or another, those who are stretching out their hands for love, mercy, forgiveness, and kindness. How might you reach out to others and let them know the beauty of God's love and the warmth of His embrace?

By staying with Jesus, we discover that His pastoral heart always beats for the person who is confused, lost, far away. And ours? How many times do we express our attitude about people who are a bit difficult or with whom we have a bit of difficulty: "But it's their problem, let them work it out ..." But Jesus never said this, never. He Himself always went to meet the marginalized, sinners. He was accused of this - of being with sinners that He might bring God's salvation precisely to them ... 

God suffers for those who leave and, while He mourns over them, He loves them even more. The Lord suffers when we distance ourselves from His heart. He suffers for all who do not know the beauty of His love and the warmth of His embrace. 

(Pope Francis, General Audience, January 18, 2023)

We are honored to commemorate Saint Margaret of Hungary today. Thinking first about the beautiful name of Margaret, and then turning to Margaret of Hungary and another Margaret, Saint Margaret of Scotland, my mind went to the universal call to holiness as presented to us in Lumen Gentium, the Dogmatic Constitution on the Church. We are all called to holiness, to be saints, no matter our state in life. A wonderful example of this is in Saint Margaret of Hungary (13th century), daughter of the King of Hungary and his wife, Maria Lascaris, daughter of the emperor of Constantinople. Before their daughter was born, both parents vowed to dedicate their child to God if Hungary would be victorious over the invading Tartars. Their prayers answered, the faithful couple placed their daughter Margaret in a Dominican monastery at the age of four. At about the age of 12, Margaret moved to a new monastery built by her father, the King. There she dedicated her life to Christ, works of mercy, pursuit of peace, and humble service. And then there is Saint Margaret of Scotland (11th century) who was princess, queen, a wife and a mother, who devoted her life to charitable works. May we be inspired by these women, and like them, respond to the universal call to be saints. May they intercede for us to lead us on the path to holiness.

Therefore in the Church, everyone belonging to the heirarchy, or being cared for by it, is called to holiness, according to the saying of the Apostle: "For this is the will of God, your sanctification (1 Th 4:3/Eph 1:4) ... Every person must walk unhesitatingly according to his own personal gifts and duties in the path of living faith, which arouses hope and works through charity.

(Lumen Gentium, 39, 41)

SAINT MARGARET OF HUNGARY,

SAINT MARGARET OF SCOTLAND,

SAINT PRISCA,

PRAY FOR US.

Today's photo: One can't get enough of this as far as I'm concerned. From Monday afternoon. Sit at my right hand.

© Gertrude Feick 2023