Tuesday of the First Week of Lent

The Month of February Dedicated to the Holy Family

Saint: Saint Oswald (-992); Blessed Villana de'Botti (1332-1361)

Readings of the Day

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

Mass: Is 55:10-11; Resp Ps 34; Mt 6:7-15 

Look to Him that you may be radiant with joy.

MARY, QUEEN OF PEACE,

OUR LADY OF SNOWS,

SAINT MICHAEL THE ARCHANGEL,

PRAY FOR US.

JESUS, MARY, AND JOSEPH,

PRAY FOR US.

Just as from the heavens the rain and snow come down ...

(Is 55:10)

The first reading from the Book of the Prophet Isaiah certainly speaks of Redwoods these days, days of rain and snow and wind and so on. It's a bit much. On the other hand, all things wet and cold are busy watering the earth, making it fruitful, giving seed to the one who sows and bread to the one who eats. And flowers as shown in today's photo just keep on. At the same time, we continue to face temptations in one form or another and combat them with the Word. One of our saints of the day, 14th century Italian Blessed Villana de'Botti ran away from home at the age of 13 to join a convent. She was refused so returned home only to be married off by her family. Not long afterwards, Villana fell away from the faith, preferring pleasure over things of God. That lasted until she was looking at herself in the mirror one day and her reflection suddenly changed to a demon. This was enough to get Villana running to the local Dominican friars for help. In short order, she became a Dominican tertiary, focused on her vocation of married life and spent her free time (and not so free time I would guess) praying and reading Scripture and the lives of the saints. And that's not all. Villana was given to religious ecstasies at Mass, visions of Our Lady and the saints, and had the gift of prophecy. It seems she put on the armor of Christ and went to battle with any other demons that might dare to manifest themselves. Not surprisingly, Villana became the object of much ridicule and slander, but even her fiercest opponents eventually came to see her as a living saint. After Villana died at the age of 30, her body was taken to Santa Maria Novella in Florence, and the dear Dominican friars were unable to bury her for a month due to the constant crowd of mourners. It happens that way with holy people. Ridiculed one moment, seen as a saint the next. O the beauty of our faith tradition. Villana was beatified by Pope Leo XII in 1824.*

And what does all this mean for us? I was reminded this morning when I had the privilege of proclaiming Genesis 3:1-19 to put on the armor of Christ just as Blessed Villana did: 

Pray, and read the Bible and the lives of the saints. And don't let curiosity kill the cat. Sister Josephine, OSB, of happy memory will answer: "Satisfaction got it back." 

During the battle they called on God, and He heard them because they had put their trust in Him.

(1 Chr 5:20)

SAINT OSWALD,

BLESSED VILLANA DE'BOTTI,

PRAY FOR US.

*See Catholic News Agency, "Blessed Villana de'Botti

Today's photo: This was yesterday around noon. Otherwise, we've had intermittent freezing rain and hail. And it keeps on. I sought the Lord, and He answered me.

© Gertrude Feick 2023

Monday of the First Week of Lent

The Month of February Dedicated to the Holy Family

Saint: Saint Gregory of Narek, Abbot, Doctor of the Church (c.950-1005); Blessed Maria Caridad Brader (1860-1943) 

Readings of the Day

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

Mass: Leviticus 19:1-2, 11-18; Resp Ps 19; Mt 25:31-46  

Your words, Lord, are spirit and life.

MARY, QUEEN OF PEACE,

OUR LADY OF SNOWS,

SAINT MICHAEL THE ARCHANGEL,

PRAY FOR US.

JESUS, MARY, AND JOSEPH,

PRAY FOR US.

Be holy, for I, the Lord, your God, am holy.

(Leviticus 19:2)

Welcome to Monday of the First Week of Lent. We can do it, faithful readers. The Lord calls us to respond to the universal call to holiness and be holy as He is holy. However, we must turn to the Lord to help us and guide us. Without Him, we are nothing, and all our efforts are in vain. Saint Gregory of Nazianzen (329-390) reminds us: "Recognize to whom you owe the fact that you exist, that you breathe, that you understand, that you are wise, and, above all, that you know God and hope for the kingdom of heaven and the vision of glory, now darkly as in a mirror, but then with greater fullness and purity."* Thanks be to God. 

Accept with sweetness almighty Lord my bitter prayers.

Look with pity upon my mournful face.

Dispel, all-bestowing God, my shameful sadness.

Lift, merciful God, my unbearable burden.

For you are glorified by all creation, forever and ever. Amen.

(Saint Gregory of Narek)**

SAINT GREGORY OF NAREK,

BLESSED MARIA CARIDAD BRADER,

PRAY FOR US.

*From a sermon by Saint Gregory of Nazianzen, bishop, in Office of Readings, First Week of Lent, Monday)

**See St Gregory of Narek Armenian Church website, Cleveland, OH.

Today's photo: Another scene from Saturday morning. Refreshing the soul.

© Gertrude Feick 2023

First Sunday of Lent

The Month of February Dedicated to the Holy Family

In other years: Saint Alexander of Alexandria (250-328)

Readings of the Day

Rule of Saint Benedict: Ch 20 Reverence in Prayer

Mass: Gn 2:7-9; 3:1-7; Resp Ps 51; Rm 5:12-19

A clean heart create for me, O God.

MARY, QUEEN OF PEACE,

OUR LADY OF SNOWS,

SAINT MICHAEL THE ARCHANGEL,

PRAY FOR US.

JESUS, MARY, AND JOSEPH, RESTORERS OF FALLEN FAMILIES,

PRAY FOR US.

For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weakness, but one who in every respect has been tempted as we are, yet without sinning.

(Heb 4:15)

Today's readings give cause for invoking Saint Michael the Archangel every day and throughout the day too. First, we have the cunning serpent that tempted Adam and Eve in the garden. They caved. It is like seeing a sign on the door that reads, "Please do not enter." And we enter anyway. Or seeing a note on the pot that says, "Please do not open." And we open it anyway. These are trivial things, yes. However, if we are tempted by trivial things, just what does that mean when we are tempted by material attachments, power, prestige, or just thinking we are in control, especially when we are gravely ill, down and out, bitter or resentful, feeling lost, confused, isolated and lonely? We are a vulnerable people; the devil preys us on. Jesus was tempted by the devil who went after Him when He was hungry. The Lord did not cave. Jesus, the Holy Father preached this morning, "never enters into dialogue with the devil; He does not negotiate with him, but He repels his insinuations with the beneficent words of the Scripture"*, One does not live on bread alone, but on every word that comes forth from the mouth of God (Mt 4:4). With Jesus leading the way, this "is an invitation to us too; one cannot defeat him by negotiating with him, he is stronger than us. We defeat the devil by countering him in faith with the divine Word. In this way, Jesus teaches us to defend unity with God and among ourselves from the attacks of the divider. The divine Word that is Jesus' answer to the temptation of the devil."* 

We are blessed with our faith tradition as the Church gives us all the weapons we need to ward off the temptations of the devil. Essentially, as I heard the designated exorcist of the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Indianapolis Father Vincent Lampert say in an interview, we go to Mass, celebrate the Sacraments, pray, and read the Bible. Get behind me, Satan! You are an obstacle to me. You are thinking not as God does, but as human beings do (Mt 16:23). 

And we ask ourselves: what place does the Word of God have in my life? Do I turn to it in my spiritual struggles? If I have a vice or a recurrent temptation, why do I not obtain help by seeking out a verse of the word of God that responds to that vice? Then, when temptation comes, I recite it, I pray it, trusting in the grace of Christ. Let us try it, it will help us in temptation, it will help us a great deal, so that, amid the voices that stir within us, the beneficent word of God will resound. May Mary, who welcomed the Word of God and with her humility defeated the pride of the divider, accompany us in the spiritual struggle of Lent.*

Let us then with confidence draw near to the throne of grace, 

that we may receive mercy and find grace in time of need. 

(Heb 4:16)

If in Christ we have been tempted, in Him we overcome the devil. Do you think only of Christ's temptations and fail to think of His victory? See yourself as tempted in Him, and see yourself as victorious in Him. He could have kept the devil from Himself, but if He were not tempted he could not teach you how to triumph over temptation.

(From a commentary on Psalm 60 from Saint Augustine, in Office of Readings, First Sunday of Lent)

SAINT ALEXANDER OF ALEXANDRIA,

PRAY FOR US.

*Pope Francis, Sunday Angelus Address, February 26, 2023.

Today's photo: A scene from yesterday morning's Spaziergang. Of my sin cleanse me.

© Gertrude Feick 2023

Saturday after Ash Wednesday

The Month of February Dedicated to the Holy Family

Saints: Saint Ethelbert (c.560-616); Blessed Maria Adeodata Pisani (1806-1855); Saint Walburga (-776)

Readings of the Day

Rule of Saint Benedict: Ch 19 The Discipline of Psalmody

Mass: Is 58:9b-14; Resp Ps 86; Lk 5:27-32

To you, O Lord, I lift up my soul.

MARY, QUEEN OF PEACE,

MARY, CAUSE OF OUR JOY,

MARY, MOTHER OF MERCY,

OUR LADY OF SNOWS,

SAINT MICHAEL THE ARCHANGEL,

PRAY FOR US.

JESUS, MARY, AND JOSEPH,

PRAY FOR US.

If you hold back your foot on the sabbath from following your own pursuits on my holy day; If you call the sabbath a delight, and the Lord's holy day honorable; If you honor it by not following your ways, seeking your own interests, or speaking with malice-

Then you shall delight in the Lord.

(Is 58:13-14)

On this Saturday after Ash Wednesday and we get ready for the First Sunday of Lent, it may be good to take the words above from the Prophet Isaiah to heart.* Consider how you are doing so far in your preparation for Easter. Maybe a tweak here or there will help. How can you more fully adhere to Jesus for all the help you need and pray to His mother Mary to help you respond to Jesus' call, Follow me (Lk 5:27). And at the same time remember that Jesus is here for the sick; He did not come to call the righteous to repentance but sinners (Lk 5:31-32). Kyrie eleison.

On Sunday all are to be engaged in reading except those who have been assigned various duties.

(Rule of Saint Benedict, 48:22)

This is the glory of man: to persevere and remain in the service of God. For this reason the Lord told His disciples: You did not choose me but I chose you. He meant that His disciples did not glorify Him by following Him, but in following the Son of God they were glorified by Him. As He said: I wish that where I am they also may be, that they may see my glory.

(From the treatise Against Heresies by Saint Irenaeus, bishop, in Office of Readings, Saturday after Ash Wednesday)

SAINT ETHELBERT,

BLESSED MARIA ADEODATA PISANI,

SAINT WALBURGA,

PRAY FOR US.

* Another rich source for reflection is Pope Saint John Paul II and his Apostolic Letter Dies Domini The Lord's Day, of May 31, 1998. It can be found on www.vatican.va along with many other papal documents.

Today's photo: You are my God.

© Gertrude Feick 2023

Friday after Ash Wednesday

The Month of February Dedicated to the Holy Family

Saint: Blessed Constantius of Fabriano OP (-1481)

Readings of the Day

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

Mass: Is 58:1-9a; Resp Ps 51; Mt 9:14-15 

Thoroughly wash me from my guilt.

MARY, QUEEN OF PEACE,

OUR LADY OF SNOWS,

SAINT MICHAEL THE ARCHANGEL,

PRAY FOR US.

Seek good and not evil so that you may live, and the Lord will be with you.

(Verse Before the Gospel, Mass)

Dear faithful readers, I'm here in brief on this Friday after Ash Wednesday. We have had a massive dump of snow, something new at Redwoods, at least since 1962 when we were founded. And the "white stuff" continues to fall. United in faith and prayer, we go forth. 

Prayer and converse with God is a supreme good: it is a partnership and union with God ...

Practice prayer from the beginning. Paint your house with the colors of modesty and humility. Make it radiant with the light of justice. Decorate it with the finest gold leaf of good deeds. Adorn it with the walls and stones of faith and generostiy. Crown it with the pinnacle of prayer. In this way you will make it a perfect dwelling place for the Lord. You will be able to receive Him as in a splendid palace, and through His grace you will already possess Him, His image enthroned in the temple of your spirit.

(From a homily by Saint John Chrysostom, bishop, in Office of Readings, Friday after Ash Wednesday_

BLESSED CONSTANTIUS OF FABRIANO,

PRAY FOR US.

Today's photo: This photo was taken yesterday morning. You should see it now. Of my sin, cleanse me.

© Gertrude Feick 2023

Thursday after Ash Wednesday

The Month of February Dedicated to the Holy Family

Saint: Saint Polycarp, Bishop, Martyr (-155)

Readings of the Day

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

Mass: Dt 30:15-20; Resp Ps 1; Lk 9:22-25 

Delights in the law of the Lord.

MARY, QUEEN OF PEACE,

OUR LADY OF SNOWS,

SAINT MICHAEL THE ARCHANGEL,

PRAY FOR US. 

HOLY FAMILY, PRAISED BY THE ANGELS,

PRAY FOR US.

Today I have set before you life and prosperity, death and doom. If you obey the commandments of the Lord, your God, which I enjoin on you today, loving Him, and walking in His ways, and keeping His commandments, statutes and decrees, you will live and grow numerous ...

if you turn away your hearts and will not listen, but are led astray and adore and serve other gods, I tell you now that you will certainly perish.

(Dt 30:15-18)

Welcome to Thursday after Ash Wednesday. How did it go yesterday? 

The words above from the author of the Book of Deuteronomy are pretty clear. What will it be then, life and prosperity, or death and doom? There are plenty of opportunities throughout the day to make a choice. United in faith and prayer, we go forth, deny ourselves in one way or the other, take up our cross, and follow Him. This is how we save our lives (see Lk 9:23-24). May it be that when faced with contradictions and pinpricks throughout the day, we could pray as Saint Polycarp did just before he embraced martyrdom.

Lord, almighty God, Father of Your beloved and blessed Son Jesus Christ ... I bless You for judging me worthy of this day, this hour, so that in the company of the martyrs I may share the cup of Christ, Your anointed one ...

I praise You for all things, I bless You, I glorify You through the eternal high priest of heaven, Jesus Christ, Your beloved Son. Through Him be glory to You, together with Him and the Holy Spirit, now and forever. Amen.

(From a letter on the martyrdom of Saint Polycarp by the Church of Smyrna, in Office of Readings, February 23)

SAINT POLYCARP,

PRAY FOR US.

Today's photo: Frosty made a brief appearance yesterday. Please take note of his ashes. ⛄ Whatever he does prospers.

© Gertrude Feick 2023

Ash Wednesday

The Month of February Dedicated to the Holy Family

In other years: Saint Peter's Chair

Readings of the Day

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

Mass:  Joel 2;12-18; Resp Ps 51; 2 Cor 5:20-6:2; Mt 6:1-6, 16-18

Thoroughly wash me from my guilt.

MARY, QUEEN OF PEACE,

SAINT MICHAEL THE ARCHANGEL,

PRAY FOR US.

JESUS, MARY, AND JOSEPH,

PRAY FOR US.

Now is a very acceptable time; behold, now is the day of salvation.

(2 Cor 6:2)

Here we go, dear faithful readers. We pray to God: A clean heart create for me, O God, and a steadfast spirit renew within me. Help us, dear Lord, to deny ourselves of some food, drink, sleep, needless talking and idle jesting so as to look forward to holy Easter with joy and spiritual longing (see Rule of Saint Benedict, 49:7). 

As has been customary, I include a piece sent to me a few years ago by then Archbishop, now Cardinal Arthur Roche, Prefect for the Congregation of Divine Worship. Thank you, Cardinal Roche.

Fast from judging others; feast on the Christ indwelling in them.

Fast from emphasis on differences; feast on the unity of life.

Fast from apparent darkness; feast on the reality of light.

Fast from words that pollute; feast on phrases that purify.

Fast from discontent; feast on gratitude.

Fast from anger; feast on patience.

Fast from pessimism; feast on optimism.

Fast from worry; feast on trust.

Fast from compliance; feast on appreciation.

Fast from negatives; feast on affirmatives.

Fast from unrelenting pressures; feast on unceasing prayer.

Fast from hostility; feast on nonviolence.

Fast from self-concern; feast on compassion for others.

Fast from personal anxiety; feast on eternal truth.

Fast from discouragement; feast on hope.

Fast from facts that depress; feast on truths that uplift.

Fast from lethargy; feast on enthusiasm.

Fast from suspicion; feast on truth.

Fast from thoughts that weaken; feast on promises that inspire.

Fast from idle gossip; feast on purposeful silence.

Gentle God, during this season of fasting and feast,

gift us with your presence, so we can be a gift to others in carrying out your work.

Amen.

SAINT PETER,

PRAY FOR US.

Today's photo: Remember that you are dust, and to dust you shall return.

© Gertrude Feick 2023

Tuesday of the Seventh Week in Ordinary Time

The Month of February Dedicated to the Holy Family

Saint: Saint Peter Damian, Bishop, Doctor (1007-1072)

Readings of the Day

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

Mass: Sirach 2:1-11; Resp Ps 37; Mk 9:30-37 

The Lord watches over the lives of the wholehearted.

MARY, QUEEN OF PEACE,

SAINT MICHAEL THE ARCHANGEL,

PRAY FOR US.

HOLY FAMILY, PRAY FOR US.

Prepare yourselves for trials.

(Sirach 2:1)

They are inevitable, trials that is. And we might face more than a few over the coming days and weeks. The author of the Book of Sirach helps us to navigate all our trials, those that come from within and those from without. Saint Peter Damian too will help us as seen in a letter quoted below, where he writes some words of consolation to a brother embittered by many tribulations. Meanwhile, as Jesus predicts His passion for the second time, the disciples are busy arguing about which one of them is the greatest. If anyone wishes to be first he shall be the last of all and the servant of all (Mk 9:35).

The Scriptures reassure us: let your understanding strengthen your patience. In serenity look forward to the joy that follows sadness. Hope leads you to that joy and love enkindles your zeal. The well-prepared mind forgets the suffering inflicted from without and glides eagerly to what has been contemplated within itself.

(From a letter by Saint Peter Damian, bishop, in Office of Readings, February 21)

No evil can harm the man who fears the Lord; through trials, again and again he is safe.

(Sirach 33:1)

These words from the psalmist, echoed by Saint Benedict, may come in handy too. 

God, come to my assistance; Lord, make haste to help me.

(Rule of Saint Benedict, 18:1)

SAINT PETER DAMIAN,

PRAY FOR US.

Fun fact: I have been to Fonte Avellana, or the Venerable Hermitage of the Holy Cross in the Marche region of Italy, where our saint of the day Saint Peter Damian lived a monastic hermetical way of life.  The place is spectacular, even just the windy up and up and up bus ride to get there. As I recall, it snowed the day I was there with a group of other monks and nuns, who, like Saint Peter Damian, were of the Benedictine tradition.

Today's photo: This is an awesome close-up of the King penguins that you saw yesterday. They are busy incubating. They take refuge in Him.

© Gertrude Feick 2023

Monday of the Seventh Week in Ordinary Time

The Month of February Dedicated to the Holy Family

Presidents' Day

Saints: Blessed Christopher of Milan OP (c.1410-1484); Saint Leo of Catania, Bishop (8th century)

Readings of the Day

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

Mass: Sirach 1:1-10; Resp Ps 93; Mk 9:14-29

The Lord is king, in splendor robed.

MARY, QUEEN OF PEACE,

SAINT MICHAEL THE ARCHANGEL,

PRAY FOR US.

HOLY FAMILY,

PRAY FOR US.

All wisdom comes from the Lord and with Him it remains forever, and is before all time.

(Sirach 1:1)

Welcome to Monday with Ash Wednesday coming soon. Everything is possible to one who has faith (Mk 9:23), Jesus tells us in today's Gospel. As we approach the holy season of Lent, we pray for the gift of faith, and that we may persevere in the gift of faith granted to us by the Lord, in whatever circumstances we find ourselves in, with the inevitable turbulence within and without. I believe, help my unbelief (Mk 9:24).

At the same time, on this President's Day, we honor all the men who have served as President of the United States of America. Let us remember especially 98-year-old President Jimmy Carter, now on hospice. Fun fact: I served in the United States Peace Corps in the Republic of South Africa with his grandson, Jason J. Carter. And the whole Peace Corps group met Jimmy and Rosalynn Carter for pizza one night in Atlanta, before the group headed to South Africa. I remember them as humble, gracious, and kind. 

This kind can only come out through prayer.

(Mk 9:29)

BLESSED CHRISTOPHER OF MILAN,

SAINT LEO OF CATANIA,

PRAY FOR US.

Today's photo: This is a wonderful look at King penguins on Tierra del Fuego, an archipelago off the southernmost tip of the South American mainland, across the Strait of Magellan. These penguins are standing with eggs at their feet while their mates are out in the bay hunting for food. They take turns incubating. Another treat from the Otto's Chilean and more adventure in South America. Robed is the Lord and girt about with strength.

© Gertrude Feick 2023

Seventh Sunday in Ordinary Time

The Month of February Dedicated to the Holy Family

Quinquagesima Sunday

In other years: Blessed Alvarez of Cordoba OP (-1430); Saint Conrad Confalonieri, Franciscan hermit (1290-1351)

Readings of the Day

Rule of Saint Benedict: Ch 16 The Celebration of the Divine Office During the Day

Mass:  Leviticus 19:1-2, 17-18; Resp Ps103; 1 Cor 3:16-23; Mt 5:38-48

The Lord is kind and merciful.

MARY, QUEEN OF PEACE,

SAINT MICHAEL THE ARCHANGEL,

PRAY FOR US.

HOLY FAMILY, TESTED BY THE GREATEST OF DIFFICULTIES,

PRAY FOR US.

Take no revenge and cherish no grudge against any of your people.

(Lev 19:18)

Welcome to Quinquagesima Sunday, the "fiftieth" Sunday. If you count Easter as Day 1, and count backwards, you will reach exactly 50 when you get to today. One thing that means is Ash Wednesday, the days following, and the holy Season of Lent are coming soon. Therefore, it is not too early to get ready. These next few days serve as a warm-up of sorts, days to prepare. And today's readings at Mass can certainly help us. In addition, you can turn to Saint Benedict and his Chapter 4 on the Tools for Good Works, where he exhorts us to never repay one bad turn for another, to never injure anyone, to love our enemies, bless those who curse us, never speak ill of others, harbor neither hatred or jealousy of  anyone, do nothing out of envy, pray for our enemies out of love for Christ, and if we have a dispute with someone, make peace before the sun goes down (Rule of Saint Benedict 4:29-32, 40, 65-66, 72-72). That should keep us busy. It may be good too, to ask how often you remember to pray for those who make your life difficult or unpleasant. What is it you need to do so that you will have something above the assigned measure to offer God of your own will with the joy of the Holy Spirit? In other words, as Saint Benedict writes, what do you have to deny yourself of so as to look forward to holy Easter with joy and spiritual longing? (see Rule of Saint Benedict 49:6-7). 

Let no one deceive himself. If anyone among you considers himself wise in this age, let him become a fool so as to become wise ...

Be perfect, just as your heavenly Father is perfect.

(1 Cor 3:18; Mt 5:48)

BLESSED ALVAREZ OF CORDOBA,

SAINT CONRAD CONFALONIERI,

PRAY FOR US.

Today's photo: You will find these just outside our main entrance. He heals all your ills.

© Gertrude Feick 2023

Saturday of the Sixth Week in Ordinary Time

The Month of February Dedicated to the Holy Family

Saturday Memorial of the Blessed Virgin Mary

Saint: Blessed John of Fiesole OP, Fra Angelico (c.1386-1455)

Readings of the Day

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

Mass: Heb 11:1-7; Resp Ps 145; Mk 9:2-13

Speak of the splendor of Your glorious majesty.

MARY, QUEEN OF PEACE,

MARY, QUEEN OF HEAVEN AND EARTH,

SAINT MICHAEL THE ARCHANGEL,

PRAY FOR US.

JESUS, MARY, AND JOSEPH, IMAGE OF THE BLESSED TRINITY HERE ON EARTH,

PRAY FOR US.

By faith, we understand that the universe was ordered by the word of God, so that what is visible came into being through the invisible.

(Heb 11:3)

Jesus was transfigured before Peter, James, and John (see Mk 9:2-3). The Lord is transfigured before each one of us too, if we look and read. One thing I ask of the Lord; this I seek: to dwell in the Lord's house all the days of my life, to gaze on the Lord's beauty, to visit His temple (Ps 27:4).

Some people, in order to discover God, read books. But there is a great book: the very appearance of created things. Look above you! Look below you! Read it. God, whom you want to discover, never wrote that book with ink. Instead, He set before your eyes the things that He had made. 

Can you ask for a louder voice than that?

(Saint Augustine of Hippo, 354-430, Sermon 126.6)

BLESSED JOHN OF FIESOLE, FRA ANGELICO, 

PRAY FOR US.

Today's photo: As I have said before, "don't forget to look up." After hearing from Saint Augustine, "don't forget to look down" either. You just might find some glorious Vinca minor, commonly called periwinkle, and another beauty to honor Our Lady. Tell of Your wondrous works.

© Gertrude Feick 2023

Friday of the Sixth Week in Ordinary Time

The Month of February Dedicated to the Holy Family

Saints: The Seven Holy Founders of the Servite Order (13th-14th century); Saint Fintan of Clonenagh (d. 603); Blessed William Richardson (1572-1603

Readings of the Day

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

Mass: Gn 11:1-9; Resp Ps 33; Mk 8:34-9:1

He who fashioned the heart of each.

MARY, QUEEN OF PEACE,

SAINT MICHAEL THE ARCHANGEL,

PRAY FOR US.

JESUS, MARY, AND JOSEPH,

PRAY FOR US.

Whoever wishes to come after me must deny himself, take up his cross, and follow me.

(Mk 8:34)

We commemorate the Seven Holy Founders of the Order of the Servants of Mary, or the Servites, "seven men worthy of all our praise and veneration, whom our Lady brought into one community to form this order of hers and her servants. They were like seven stars joined together to form a constellation."* The seven stars came from different backgrounds - some had never been married, some we married men at the same time, others had lost their wives after marriage. They certainly lost many aspects of their lives for the sake of God and that of the Gospel (see Mk 8:35). They lived as hermits on Monte Senario, near Florence, Tuscany, central Italy. They had a special devotion to the Blessed Virgin Mary and "loved God above all things and dedicated their whole lives to Him by honoring Him in every thought, word and deed."* May they intercede for all of us, no matter our state in life, and help us to love the Lord God with all our heart, our whole soul and all our strength. No matter what. And they remind us too that God calls all kinds of people together to bear witness to Him. By the grace of God, we go forth. 

These are the holy ones, who have received blessings from the Lord, and mercy from the God who saves them, such is the people who seek the Lord.

(Entrance Antiphon, Mass)

THE SEVEN HOLY FOUNDERS OF THE SERVITE ORDER,

SAINT FINTAN OF CLONENAGH,

BLESSED WILLIAM RICHARDSON,

PRAY FOR US.

*From an account of the origin of the Servite Order, in Office of Readings, February 17. See also Catholic News Agency, "Seven Founders of the Servite Order."

Today's photo: During one of my cleaning charges, I can look out the window at this favorite of mine when passing by. The leaves in various shades of red are especially attractive. The plan of the Lord stands forever.

© Gertrude Feick 2023

Thursday of the Sixth Week in Ordinary Time

The Month of February Dedicated to the Holy Family

Saints: Saint Onesimus, early Christian leader; Blessed Nicholas of Paglia OP (1197-1256)

Readings of the Day

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

Mass: Gn 9:1-13; Resp Ps 102; Mk 8:27-33

From heaven the Lord looks down on earth.

MARY, QUEEN OF PEACE,

SAINT MICHAEL THE ARCHANGEL,

PRAY FOR US.

HOLY FAMILY, CENTER OF PEACE AND CONCORD,

PRAY FOR US.

For in the image of God has man been made.

(Gn 9:6)

Welcome to Thursday. Looking around, at all the men, women, boys and girls, made in the image and likeness of God, and the magnificent works of God on earth and above, as seen in today's photo, it is a good question Jesus asks us: But who do you say that I am? (Mk 8:29).

Ash Wednesday and the holy Season of Lent is coming soon. We turn to Saint Benedict and remember that the celebration of Lauds and Vespers must never pass by without the superior's reciting the entire Lord's Prayer at the end for all to hear, because thorns of contention are likely to spring up (Rule of Saint Benedict, 13:12). It is not too early to think about the thorns of contention we might rid ourselves of in the coming liturgical season. Forgive us as we forgive ... and deliver us from evil.

You are the Christ.

(Mk 8:29)

SAINT ONESIUMUS,

BLESSED NICHOLAS OF PAGLIA,

SAINT DOMINIC,

PRAY FOR US.

Today's photo: This is not the morning of February 6 as you saw before. Here we are at 5:04 a.m. this past Saturday, February 11. From heaven He beheld the earth.

© Gertrude Feick 2023

Wednesday of the Sixth Week in Ordinary Time

The Month of February Dedicated to the Holy Family

Saint: Saint Claude La Colombiere (1641-1682)

Readings of the Day 

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

Mass: Gn 8:6-13, 20-22; Resp Ps 116; Mk 8:22-26

To you, O Lord, I will offer a sacrifice of praise.

MARY, QUEEN OF PEACE,

SAINT MICHAEL THE ARCHANGEL,

PRAY FOR US.

HOLY FAMILY, OUR SUPPORT IN LIFE AND OUR HOPE IN DEATH,

PRAY FOR US.

HEART OF JESUS, SEAT OF LOVE AND COMPASSION,

HAVE MERCY ON US.

May the Father of Our Lord Jesus Christ enlighten the eyes of our hearts, 

that we may know what is the hope that belongs to His call.

(Gospel Versicle, Mass)

It happens not occasionally that this leads to that and prompts me to go here and there. Looking at notes from the Holy Father's General Audience Catechesis this morning I read something that the pontiff said, "It's easier to exhort people to love God than to allow ourselves to be loved by Him." This took me to something I read last night, "Why should you deny yourself the same tenderness and warmth you extend to others who are suffering?"* It's true that it is easier to tell others that Jesus loves them and to love Him in return then it is to extend the same courtesy to ourselves. It's like a dear Carmelite friar and friend of happy memory told me once before I was off to lead a retreat: "Just tell the people that Jesus loves them. That's all they need to know." As a result, I've been doing that ever since and many have responded that no one ever told them that before. Or maybe it is because many don't believe it or even think they are worthy of God's love. However, do I tell myself that Jesus loves me? And then do I believe it? Hmmm. It may seem to be a "radical idea" in a way. This is the way Dr. C.K. Germer puts it, what he calls self-compassion: "That's self-compassion--taking care of ourselves just as we'd treat someone we love dearly. If you're used to beating yourself up during periods of sadness or loneliness, if you hide from the world when you make a mistake to begin with, self-compassion may seem like a radical idea."* It may be worthy then to spend some time reflecting on how much Jesus loves us and is always there to embrace us with mercy, love and forgiveness. If we don't embrace this, then how can we extend mercy, love and forgiveness to others. If we are to bear witness to the mercy, love, and forgiveness of God, then, as Pope Francis said to those gathered in the Paul VI Audience Hall, "Bearing witness to Him means radiating Him. But, if we do not receive His light, we will be extinguished. If we do not attend Him, we will bear ourselves instead of Him, and it will all be in vain." Then He laid hands on the man's eyes as second time and he saw clearly (Mk 8:25). I can see clearly now the rain is gone 🎵 ☺. And it just so happens that the rain is gone from here too. There's nothing but blue skies. 

SAINT CLAUDE LA COLOMBIERE,

SAINT MARGARET MARY ALACOQUE,

PRAY FOR US.

*See C.K. Germer, The Mindful Path to Self-Compassion: Freeing Yourself from Destructive Thoughts and Emotions (Guildford Press, 2009), p. 2. 

Today's photo: I managed to get this beauty yesterday in between the snow, rain, wind, sun, rain, sun here and there, and so on. As I say, here they come. The flowers, that is. ☺ For all the good He has done for me.

© Gertrude Feick 2023

Tuesday of the Sixth Week in Ordinary Time

The Month of February Dedicated to the Holy Family

Saints: Saint Valentine, Patron Saints of Europe, Patron Saint of Lovers; Saints Cyril, Monk, and Methodius, Bishop (9th century)

Readings of the Day

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

Mass: Gn 6:5-8; 7:1-5, 10: Resp Ps 29; Mk 8:14-21

Praise is fitting for loyal hearts.

MARY, QUEEN OF PEACE,

MARY, QUEEN OF HEARTS,

SAINT MICHAEL THE ARCHANGEL,

PRAY FOR US.

JESUS, MARY, AND JOSEPH, HEARTS UNITED IN THE LORD,

PRAY FOR US.

Do you still not understand?

(Mk 8:21)

Happy Saint Valentine's Day. 💖 

First, in response to Jesus' question above, look to Isaiah 41:17-20 which I had the privilege of proclaiming at Lauds this morning. That all may see and know, observe and understand (Is 41:20). It is snowing right now. Do I need more signs than that? Hmmm. And then there is Noah who just did as the Lord commanded him (Gn 7:5). 

And now a word or two about Saint Valentine, the patron saint of lovers. According to tradition he risked his life to marry couples in a Christian way during the time of the Roman persecution. He was eventually martyred for his witness to the faith. Dear Saint Valentine can certainly intercede for all married couples, and also pray for all couples who do not find it necessary to get married in the Church, or any church for that matter. There are many saints who were married with families so lots of others to intercede too, like Saint Margaret of Scotland (11th century), married for 23 years and the mother of eight children; Saint Louis IX (13th century), married 36 years and the father of 11 children; Saint Thomas More (14th-15th century), married 33 years with 4 children and one stepdaughter; Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton, married nine years with five children; and Saints Louis Martin and Zelie Marie-Azelie Guerin (19th century), the first spouses in the Church's history to be canonized as a couple. They had nine children with only five daughters who survived infancy. And they were all nuns including Saint Therese of Lisieux, the Little Flower, and Servant of God Leonie Martin.* 

We also commemorate the brothers Saints Cyril and Methodius, born in Thessalonica, Greece, and educated in Constantinople in what is modern-day Turkey. Together they set off for Moravia, in the eastern part of what is now the Czech Republic, to preach the faith. They translated liturgical texts into the Slavonic language and invented the Cyrillic alphabet. Just after one of them, called Constantine at birth, was clothed in the monastic habit and took the name of Cyril, he lived the life of a monk for fifty days. Not long before he died, he prayed to the Lord, his God. And he intercedes for us now, along with his brother. 

Hear my prayer and protect your faithful people, for you have established me as their unsuitable and unworthy servant.

Keep them free from harm and the worldly cunning of those who blaspheme you. Build up your church and gather all into unity. Make your people known for the unity and profession of their faith. Inspire the hearts of your people with your word and your teaching ...

Direct them with your powerful right hand, and protect them under the shadow of your wings. May all praise and glorify your name, the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit. Amen.

(From an Old Slavonic Life of Constantine, in Office of Readings, February 14)

SAINT VALENTINE, 

SAINT MARGARET OF SCOTLAND, 

SAINT LOUIS IX,

SAINT THOMAS MORE,

SAINT ELIZABETH ANN SETON,

SAINTS LOUIS MARTIN AND ZELIE MARIE-AZELIE GUERIN,

SAINT THERESE OF LISIEUX,

SERVANT OF GOD LEONIE MARTIN,

SAINTS CYRIL AND METHODIUS,

PRAY FOR US.

*See Catholic News Agency, "St. Valentine," and CatholicVote "Saints Who Were Married," and Wikipedia too. 

Today's photo: To celebrate Saint Valentine's Day, these colorful and precious glass hearts come courtesy of a friend from the neighborhood where we both were born and raised in Muncie, Indiana (the Hoosier State). We have not seen one another since just before high school (not a few years ago lol 😉), when she moved to Kansas, the Sunflower State, where she still lives. Can you imagine? Recently gifted with an old glass kiln by her brother, she has taken on a new hobby. I am reminded of the wonderful song with words, "Make new friends but keep the old, one is silver and other gold." Give to the Lord glory and praise.

© Gertrude Feick 2023

Monday of the Sixth Week in Ordinary Time

The Month of February Dedicated to the Holy Family

Saint: Blessed Jordan of Saxony OP (c.1185-1237); Saint Catherine de' Ricci OP (1522-1590)

Readings of the Day

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

Mass: Gn 4:1-15, 25; Resp Ps 50; Mk 8:11-13 

Offer to God a sacrifice of praise.

MARY, QUEEN OF PEACE,

SAINT MICHAEL THE ARCHANGEL,

PRAY FOR US.

JESUS, MARY, AND JOSEPH,

PRAY FOR US.

If you can do well, you can hold up your head; but if not, sin is a demon lurking at the door; his urge is toward you, yet you can be his master.

(Gn 4:7)

Welcome to Monday and a week to celebrate several Dominican saints like Blessed Reginald of Orleans, who received the habit from Saint Dominic, and Blessed Jordan of Saxony, who also received the habit from Saint Dominic and succeeded him as Master of the Order of Preachers. Then there is Saint Catherine de' Ricci, who was born in Florence and took the veil at the Dominican convent in Prat, Tuscany. Among other notables, she was eventually elected perpetual prioress, and due to her sanctity and prudence, had many visitors including bishops, princes, and even cardinals who became popes. She also appeared in a vision to a long-time correspondent, Saint Philip Neri (1515-1595), who lived in Rome, hundreds of miles away from where she was physically located. Otherwise skeptical of miraculous events, Philip apparently confirmed this one. Such a miraculous work was included in Catherine's cause for canonization, celebrated by Pope Benedict XIV in 1746.* And lastly, we have Blessed Nicholas of Paglia, a traveling companion of Saint Dominic, and Blessed John of Fiesole, better known as Fra Angelico. I've seen many of Fra Angelico's marvelous works of art in person, at Il Convento di San Marco in Florence where the famous Annunciation is housed, and at an exhibit at Villa Borghese. Fra Angelico is buried at Santa Maria sopra Minerva in Rome, definitely a favorite of mine. Outside the front of that magnificent Church is Bernini's small statue of an elephant. May all these glorious saints intercede for all friars, sisters, and nuns of the Order of Preachers. We pray especially for all those who study and work at the Pontifical University of Saint Thomas Aquinas in Rome.

United in faith and prayer, we go forth to encourage and support one another so that we master whatever sin is lurking at our doors. Lord, have mercy. Be my protector, O God, a mighty stronghold to save me. For you are my rock, my stronghold! Lead me, guide me, for the sake of your name (Entrance Antiphon, Mass).

BLESSED JORDAN OF SAXONY,

SAINT CATHERINE DE' RICCI,

SAINT DOMINIC.

PRAY FOR US.

*On Saint Catherine de' Ricci, see Catholic News Agency, "St. Catherine de' Ricci."

Today's photo: Here they come. The flowers, that is. ☺ From the rising of the sun to its setting.

© Gertrude Feick 2023

Sixth Sunday in Ordinary Time

The Month of February Dedicated to the Holy Family

In other years: Blessed Reginald of Orleans, OP (c.1180-1220)

Readings of the Day

Rule of Saint Benedict: Ch 10 The Arrangement of the Night Office in Summer

Mass: Sirach 15:15-20; Resp Ps 119; 1 Cor 2:6-10; Mt 5:17-37 

The wonders of your law.

MARY, QUEEN OF PEACE,

SAINT MICHAEL THE ARCHANGEL,

PRAY FOR US.

HOLY FAMILY, WHOSE DIVINE CHILD IS A MODEL OF FILIAL OBEDIENCE,

PRAY FOR US.

Before man are life and death, good and evil,

whichever he chooses will be given him.

(Sirach 15:17)

Who is the man that fears the Lord?

The Lord will instruct him in the way that he should choose.

(Psalm 25:12)

There seems to be no cause to waver then on what is the path to choose. However, we must listen to what the Lord is telling us. Listen, that is, with the ear of our heart. So doing, we can be firm and let our 'Yes' mean 'Yes,' and our 'No' mean 'No.' For anything else is from the evil one (see Mk 17:37).

Jesus is the Finger of God who writes in the interior of our being, who etches living truth on the flesh of our heart with His tender yet powerful touch. If He can do this it is because He Himself, eternal Word possesses a human heart and knows how to reach other hearts. And the simple, absolute, and unsurpassable law He inscribes in our hearts is the law of the love of God.

(E. Leiva-Merikakis, Fire of Mercy, Heart of the Word: Meditations on the Gospel According to St. Matthew)

BLESSED REGINALD OF ORLEANS,

SAINT DOMINIC,

PRAY FOR US.

Today's photo: This is a guanaco at spectacular Torres del Paine National Park in Chile. Just one of the new animals the Ottos met during their recent Chilean adventure. That I may be firm in the ways of keeping your statutes!

© Gertrude Feick 2023

Saturday of the Fifth Week in Ordinary Time

The Month of February Dedicated to the Holy Family

World Day of the Sick

Our Lady of Lourdes

Readings of the Day

Rule of Saint Benedict: Ch 9 The Number of Psalms at the Night Office

Mass: Gn 3:9-24; Resp Ps 90; Mk 8:1-10

The earth and the world were brought forth.

MARY, QUEEN OF PEACE,

MARY, HEALTH OF THE SICK,

OUR LADY OF VAILANKANNI,

SAINT RAPHAEL,

SAINT MICHAEL THE ARCHANGEL,

PRAY FOR US.

HOLY FAMILY, WHOSE MOTHER IS A MODEL OF MATERNAL DILIGENCE,

PRAY FOR US.

My heart is moved with pity for the crowd.

(Mk 8:2)

For the times when we are afraid and try to hide ourselves from the Lord Our God, may we reach out to Him who always looks for us, and loves us with an everlasting love. They ate and were satisfied (Mk 8:8).

And the man called his wife "Eve."

"Mother of all that live shall be her name,"

Said the man, when the Lord had judged their sin.

Somehow the curse and blessing are the same;

Bread shall they eat, though sweat cling to the skin;

In pain shall she bring children to the light,

And one shall crush the serpent's skull, to win-

Not the small grove whence they were put to flight-

New heaven and earth for man His foe, and friend.

Praise her then, in whose fruitful womb unite

Dust, and that life of Eden without end.*

OUR LADY OF LOURDES,

SAINT BERNADETTE OF LOURDES,

PRAY FOR US.

* Anthony Esolen, The Hundredfold: Songs for the Lord (Ignatius, 2019). pp. 51-52.

Today's photo: For Our Lady of Lourdes. Not the pale-yellow roses on the top of Her feet when she first appeared to Bernadette Soubirous, this rose, courtesy of the Benedictine Sisters of Mt. Angel, OR, is fitting. Our Lady, mystical rose, likes all flowers, especially roses. That we may gain wisdom of heart.

 © Gertrude Feick 2023