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