December 2025

Jubilee Holy Year 2025: Pilgrims of Hope

December is the month dedicated to Advent and the Coming of Christ.

Maranatha!

OUR LADY, MOTHER OF JESUS,

IMMACULATE MARY,

SAINT MICHAEL THE ARCHANGEL,

PRAY FOR US.

Dear Faithful Readers, Happy New Liturgical Year and welcome to the most holy season of Advent, on this first day of December 2025, the month dedicated to Advent and the coming of Christ. Come, and save us, Lord our God; let your face shine upon us, that we may be saved. Alleluia, alleluia. 

The holy season of Advent is a time of preparation, a time to be still, a time to free ourselves from the obstacles that limit our experience of the presence of Jesus who has already come, who will come, and who continuously comes. One way to go about that is by embracing the wisdom of Abba Antony. As the story goes, "Someone asked the Abba Antony, 'What sort of practices do I need to maintain in order to please God?' In reply the elder said, 'Practice what I am prescribing for you: Wherever you go, keep God right before your eyes-always. Whatever you're doing, hold on to the testimony of the holy Scriptures. Wherever you're living, don't be in a hurry to move on. Keep these practices and you'll be saved.'"* Stay awake. Wait. Wait for the Lord. Be still and know that He is God. Recognize His presence at all times and in all places. And you will be saved.

At the same time, it is in this holy season that we anticipate Christmas with the great "O" Antiphons, listed here in part, traditionally sung before and after the Canticle of Mary at Vespers from December 17-23. May we proclaim the greatness of the Lord. Come, Lord Jesus, come. 

O Wisdom, coming forth from the mouth of the Most High ... 

come and teach us the way of prudence.

O Adonai and Leader of the house of Israel ...

come and redeem us with outstretched arm.

O root of Jesse, who stands as a sign among the people ...

come to deliver us and tarry not.

O Key of David, opening the gates of God's eternal Kingdom ...

come and free the prisoners of darkness!

O Rising Dawn, splendor of eternal Light and Sun of Justice ...

come and illuminate those who sit in darkness and the shadow of death.

O King of the nations and their Desire, the Cornerstone who binds two into one:

come and save mankind, whom you fashioned from clay.

O Emmanuel, our King and Lawgiver ...

come and save us, O Lord our God!

United in faith and prayer, we go forth with words to inspire us ...

To prepare our hearts to welcome the Lord who, as we say in the Creed, will come one day to judge the living and the dead, we must learn to recognize His presence in the events of daily life. Advent is then a period of intense training that directs us decisively to the One who has already come, who will come and who continuously comes.

(Pope Saint John Paul II, 1920-2005, General Audience, December 18, 2002)

The world might have expected the Son of God to be born in an inn; a stable would certainly be the last place in the world where one would look for Him. The lesson is: divinity is always where you least expect to find it. So the Son of God made man, is invited to enter into His own world through a back door.

(Venerable Fulton J. Sheen, 1895-1975)

You too, are mothers of the Child who has been born for you and in you ... Keep watch in your care for the newborn Child.

(Guerric of Igny, 1070/80-1157)

The whole of Christ's life was a continual teaching: His silences, His miracles, His gestures, His prayer, His love for people, His special affection for the little and the poor, His acceptance of the total sacrifice on the cross for the redemption of the world, and His resurrection are the actualization of His word and fulfillment of revelation.

(Pope Saint John Paul II, Catechesi Tradendae, 9)

When it is sincere and comes from the heart, deep emotion is the most eloquent response [to] a great love or a great sorrow ... No word or gesture or gift can substitute for it because it is the best gift. It means opening oneself to the other.

(Cardinal Raniero Cantalamessa, O.F.M., Cap., preacher to the papal household)

Strict with myself, I want to be only kind and gentle with my neighbor. To live in interior union with our God, and to make of all the monotony, triviality, and simple duties of my life so many prayers for others.

(Servant of God Elisabeth Leseur, 1866-1914)

At this Christmas when Christ comes, will He find a warm heart? Mark the season of Advent by loving and serving others with God's own love and concern.

(Mother Saint Teresa of Calcutta, 1910-1997)

Strive to preserve your heart in peace; let no event of this world disturb it.

(Saint John of the Cross "The Mystical Doctor," 1542-1591)

All my works, Lord, are truly nothing without your grace and mercy, which you so generously shower on all creatures, and this without number or measure. Oh, the depth of the riches of the wisdom and knowledge of God (Rom 11:33).

(Venerable Thomas a Kempis, 1380-1471)

But because I ask for silence,

don't think I'm going to die.

The opposite is true;

it happens that I'm going to live.

(Pablo Neruda, 1904-1973)

No one heals himself by wounding another.

(Saint Ambrose of Milan, 339-397)

No one, whether shepherd or wise man, can approach God except by kneeling before the manger of Bethlehem and adoring Him hidden in the weakness of a new-born Child.

(Catechism of the Catholic Church, 563)

Let us imitate blessed Stephen as far as God gives us the grace to do so. Let us not only love our friends but also our enemies, because there is nothing whereby we can so well redeem our sins, overcome the devil, and please God.

(Saint Caesarius of Arles, 468/70-542)

Now Christmas is come

Let us beat up the drum,

And call all our neighbors together,

And when they appear, 

Let us make them such cheer

As will keep out the wind and the weather.

(Washington Irving, 1783-1859)

BLESSED CLEMENTINE ANUARITE,

SAINT ALEXANDER BRIANT,

SAINT RALPH SHERWIN,

SAINT EDMUND CAMPION,

SAINT BIBIANA,

SAINT FRANCIS XAVIER, PRIEST,

SAINT JOHN DAMASCENE, PRIEST, DOCTOR,

SAINT CLEMENT OF ALEXANDRIA,

SAINT GERARD OF MAYO,

SAINT JOHN ALMOND,

SAINT BIRINUS,

SAINT NICHOLAS, BISHOP,

SAINT AMBROSE OF MILAN,

SAINT JUAN DIEGO CUAUHTLATOATZIN,

OUR LADY OF LORETO,

SAINT EULALIA OF MERIDA,

SAINT MELCHIADES,

SAINT EDMUND GENNINGS,

SAINT JOHN ROBERTS,

SAINT EUSTACE WHITE,

SAINT POLYDORE PLASDEN,

SAINT SWITHIN WELLS,

POPE SAINT DAMASCUS I,

SAINT MARIA MARAVILLAS OF JESUS,

OUR LADY OF GUADALUPE,

SAINT FINIAN OF CLONARD,

SAINT LUCY, VIRGIN, MARTYR,

SAINT JOHN OF THE CROSS,

SAINT VIRGINIA CEBTURIONE BRACELLI, 

BLESSED URBAN V,

SAINT CHAEROMON,

SAINT JANE FRANCES DE CHANTAL,

SAINT ADELAIDE,

SAINT GATIAN,

BLESSED MARY OF THE ANGELS,

SAINT OLYMPIAS,

BLESSED SCUBILION,

SAINT FACHANA OF KILFENORA,

SAINT FLANNAN, BISHOP,

SAINT DOMINIC OF SILOS,

SAINT JOHN OF KETY, PRIEST,

SAINT THORLAK THORHALLSSON,

SAINT STEPHEN, THE FIRST MARTYR,

SAINT JOHN, APOSTLE, EVANGELIST,

SAINT ANYSIUS,

THE HOLY FAMILY,

POPE SAINT SYLVESTER I,

PRAY FOR US.

* See Tim Vivian, Becoming Fire: Through the Year with the Desert Fathers and Mothers (Cistercian Studies/Liturgical Press, 2024), entry for December 2, p. 370.

This month's photo: The Light has come into the world; He is wrapped in swaddling clothes. For you who fear my name, there will arise the sun of justice with its healing rays (Malachi 3:20a).

© Gertrude Feick 2025

The Nativity of the Lord

December is the month dedicated to the Immaculate Conception 

January is dedicated to the Holy Name of Jesus

Reading from the Rule of Saint Benedict for December 24 and 25: Chapter 66 The Porter of the Monastery and Chapter 67 Brothers Sent on a Journey

Light dawns for the just.

IMMACULATE MARY,

SAINT MICHAEL THE ARCHANGEL,

PRAY FOR US. 

JESUS, BRIGHTNESS OF ETERNAL LIGHT,

HAVE MERCY ON US.

In the beginning was the Word,

and the Word was with God,

and the Word was God.

He was in the beginning with God.

All things came to be through Him,

and without Him nothing came to be.

What came to be through Him was life,

and this life was the light of the human race;

the light shines in the darkness,

and the darkness has not overcome it.

(John 1:1-5)

Merry Christmas! Buon natale! Frohe Weihnachten! Joyeux Noel! 

Always be a porter (See RB 66) at your door to let in the true light, which enlightens everyone, and let it shine throughout the world. So be ready, as Meister Eckhart (1260-1328) tells us: "When the human spirit is ready, God enters without hesitation or waiting. You need not look either here or there. God is no farther away than the door of heart." Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace to those on whom His favors rests. 

Encouraged by a faithful reader (thank you, padre ☺), I am back. Rather, we are back. And thank you, faithful readers. We are about something new. Or at least you may notice a few new things. At the same time, other things will remain the same. We shall see. Let us call these offerings "occasional." You will see them on occasion then, with occasions to be determined. 

There is so much to ponder at this time where is one to begin ... There is the Vigil Mass where we began: Today you will know that the Lord will come, and He will save us, and in the morning you will see His glory (Entrance Antiphon). Joseph named Him Jesus (see Mt 1:25). Then the Mass during the night where we began: Let us all rejoice in the Lord, for our Savior has been born in the world. Today true peace has come down to us from heaven (Entrance Antiphon). Mass at Dawn takes off with: Today a light will shine upon us, for the Lord is born for us; and He will be called Wondrous God, Prince of Peace, Father of future ages: and His reign will be without end (Entrance Antiphon). And at Mass During the Day, we proclaim: A child is born for us, and a son is given to us, His scepter of power rests upon His shoulder, and His name will be called Messenger of great counsel (Entrance Antiphon). It is overwhelming; what a gift and privilege to accept Him; He who gave us power to become children of God. So, we believe in His name, for from His fullness we have all received, grace in place of grace (see (John 1:1-18). And in just what specific way will you behold the salvation of our God (see Isaiah 52:10), this day and throughout this holy Christmas season?

We go forth, then, with Mary, to keep all these things, and reflect on them in our hearts (See Luke 2:19).

We are encouraged by more than a few voices. 

She who conceived God by faith promises you the same if you have faith; if you will faithfully receive the Word from the mouth of the heavenly messenger, you too may conceive the God whom the whole world cannot contain.

(Guerric of Igny, 1070-1157)

With complete devotion

then let us think of Christ

in the swaddling clothes

with which His mother

wrapped Him, so that

with eternal happiness

we may see the glory and

beauty with which His

Father clothed Him.

(Guerric of Igny, 1070-1157)

Let Mary's soul be in each of you to proclaim the greatness of the Lord. Let her spirit be in each to rejoice in the Lord. Christ has only one mother in the flesh, but we all bring forth Christ in faith.

(Saint Ambrose of Milan, 339-397)

Let your goodness, Lord, appear to us, that we, made in Your image, may conform ourselves to it. In our own strength we cannot imitate Your majesty, power, and wonder nor is it fitting for us to try. But Your mercy reaches from the heavens through the clouds to the earth below ...

You have come to us as a small child, but you have brought us the greatest of all gifts, the gift of eternal love. Caress us with Your tiny hands, embrace us with Your tiny arms, and pierce our hearts with Your soft, sweet cries.

(Saint Bernard of Clairvaux "Troubador of Mary," 1090-1153)

Here is the holy crib of our dear Jesus; I will place everything in it, everything, everything. I believe that before long we shall see things we should never have dreamed of.

(Saint Julia Billiart, 1751-1816, during her final illness)

If the Redeemer had come to be feared and respected among men, He would have come as a full-grown man and with royal dignity: but because He came to gain our love, He chose to come to show Himself as an infant and the poorest of infants.

(Saint Faustina Kowalska, 1905-1938)

It requires faith to believe that Christ will be born in man this Christmas, but much more faith to believe that He will be born in our own heart, that He could fulfill His will of love in our own life, our life with so little radius for His light, so little journeying for His feet, so small a distance for both hands to reach.

(Caryll Houselander, 1901-1954)

By virtue of the creation, and still more, of the Incarnation, nothing here below is profane, for those who know how to see.

(Pierre Teilhard de Chardin, 1881-1955)

The Incarnation is the most stupendous event which can ever take place on earth; and after it, and henceforth, I do not see how we can scruple any miracle on the mere ground of its being unlikely to happen.

(Saint John Henry Newman, 1801-1890)

In putting his signature, in faith, to the mysterium of the Incarnate Son of God, a person is enabled to be a helper to his fellow men, to bring happiness to children, families, and the oppressed. Faith in the Incarnation promotes the salvation of mankind the implementation of human rights.

(Theodor Schnitzler, 1910-1982)

Charity is friendship with God.

(Saint Thomas Aquinas "Angelic Doctor," 1225-1274)

When one is filled with Jesus Christ, one is at the same time filled with charity, with a holy vivacity, and with lofty ideals, whose execution leaves no time for languishing ...

In all the visits we make, let us imitate Mary. Let us visit one another in charity, for under even a simple civility great mysteries may be hidden. Grace will grow where it is made known by humility and by the exercise of holy friendship.

(Bishop Jacques-Benigne Bossuet, 1627-1704)

Quiet is born, not so much around us as within ourselves. To be quiet and concentrated does not mean that one has to be in a peaceful, cloister-like, deserted place, far from tumult. To say this would be an oversimplification ... To be quiet means to have quiet in one's soul.

(Blessed Stefan Wyszynski, 1901-1981)

Great is the amazement of this earth of ours that the Lord of all has come down to it: God has become man, the Ancient has become a child, the Master has become like His servants ...

Who is it who will not listen to this wonder, that God has come to be born? Who will not be amazed when he sees that the Lord of the angels has been born?

(Saint Ephrem the Syrian, 306-373)

Today our Savior is born;

let us rejoice.

Sadness should have no place

on the birthday of life.

No one is shut out from this joy.

(Pope Saint Leo the Great, 400-461)

SAINT JOHN OF KANTY,

SAINT STEPHEN, FIRST MARTYR,

SAINT JOHN THE EVANGELIST,

THE HOLY INNOCENTS, MARTYRS,

SAINT THOMAS BECKET,

ELIJAH AND ELISHA, PROPHETS,

POPE SAINT SYLVESTER I,

THE HOLY FAMILY OF JESUS, MARY AND JOSEPH,

PRAY FOR US.

Today's photo: From the Jensen Botanical Garden, Carmichael, CA Break into song; sing praise.

© Gertrude Feick, 2024/2025

First Week in Ordinary Time

January is the month dedicated to the Holy Name of Jesus

Readings for the Rule of Saint Benedict for the Week: Prologue 45 - Ch 2:31 Qualities of the Abbot

From the River to the ends of the earth.

JESUS, THE MIGHTY GOD,

HAVE MERCY ON US.

MARY, HELP OF CHRISTIANS,

SAINT MICHAEL THE ARCHANGEL,

PRAY FOR US.

Seek the Lord while He may be found, call Him while He is near.

(Isaiah 55:6)

It is most certainly a busy day and a busy week at the beginning of the still New Year 2024 fully immersed in January the month dedicated to the Holy Name of Jesus. Welcome to the Epiphany of the Lord, the Baptism of the Lord, and the First Week in Ordinary Time. And not a few saints to commemorate and guide us on our way. Whew. The life of a Christian is exhausting. It is true something Willie Graf (1918-1943) said: "To be a Christian is perhaps the hardest thing to ever become in life." However, we keep going, and heed the words of Saint Teresa of Avila (1515-1582), who wrote, "Let the Christian be valiant." United in faith and prayer, then, and all in the name of the Lord who made heaven and earth, we are valiant in word and deed. 

Speaking of baptism, do you know the date of your baptism? It is an important day, the most important day in your life. As is customary, the Holy Father baptized 16 infants today in the Sistene Chapel. As Pope Francis said to the families gathered in the Sistene Chapel, we should see our baptism as a sort of "birthday." It is the day that the faith was received, a day to be celebrated. After all, it is the day we became a beloved child of God. So, celebrate the date of your baptism. If you do not know the date, contact the parish where you were baptized and find out. I was baptized November 29, 1964, when I was just 20 days old. For this, I thank my parents and godparents, and give God the praise for the gift. I believe, help my unbelief. 

And now, we let the people speak. ☺

The object of the new year is not to have a new year. It is that we should have a new soul.

(G.K. Chesterton, 1874-1936)

The obedience of the star calls us to imitate its humble service: to be servants, as best we can, of the grace that invites all men to find Christ.

Dear friends, you must have the same zeal to be of help to one another; then, in the kingdom of God, to which faith and good words are the way, you will shine as children of the light: through our Lord Jesus Christ, who lives and reigns with God the Father and the Holy Spirit for ever and ever. Amen.

(From a sermon by Pope Saint Leo the Great, in Office of Readings, Epiphany)

Christ is bathed in light; let us also be bathed in light. Christ is baptized; let us go down with Him, and rise with Him ... 

Today let us do honor to Christ's baptism and celebrate this feast in holiness. Be cleansed entirely and continue to be cleansed. Nothing gives such pleasure to God as the conversion and salvation of men, for whom His every word and every revelation exist. He wants you to become a living force for all mankind, lights shining in the world. You are to be radiant lights as you stand beside Christ, the great light, bathed in the glory of Him who is the light of heaven.

(From a sermon by Saint Gregory of Nazianzen, bishop, in Office of Readings, Baptism of the Lord)

The soul is regenerated in the sacred waters of baptism and thus becomes God's child.

(Saint Maximilian Kolbe, 1894-1941)

May the God of love and peace set your hearts at rest and speed you on your journey; may He meanwhile shelter you from disturbance by others in the hidden recesses of His love, until He brings you at last into that place of complete plentitude where you will repose forever in the vision of peace, in the security of trust and in the restful enjoyment of His riches.

(From a letter by Saint Raymond of Penyafort, priest, in Office of Readings, January7)

I am well aware, almighty God and Father, that in my life I owe you a most particular duty. It is to make my every thought and word speak of you ... 

Impart to us, then, the meaning of the words of Scripture and the light to understand it, with reverence for the doctrine and confidence in its truth. Grant that we may express what we believe. Through the prophets and apostles we know about you, the one God the Father, and on Lord Jesus Christ. May we have the grace, in the face of heretics who deny you, to honor you as God, who is not along, and to proclaim this as truth.

(From a sermon On the Trinity by Saint Hilary of Poitiers, bishop, in Office of Readings, January 13)

I want you to know that in this kind of warfare, the battering ram has always been the Rosary.

(Our Lady to Saint Dominic)

If I am in sickness, my sickness may serve Him; in perplexity, my perplexity may serve Him; if I am in sorrow, my sorrow may serve Him. My sickness, or perplexity, or sorrow may be necessary causes of some great end, which is quite beyond us.

He does nothing in vain. He may prolong my life, He may shorten it; He knows what He is about. He may take away my friends, He may throw me among strangers, He may make me feel desolate, make my spirits sink, hide the future from me - still He knows what He is about.

(Saint John Henry Newman, 1801-1890)

But as we progress in this way of life and in faith, we shall run on the path of God's commandments, our hearts overflowing with the inexpressible delight of love.

(Rule of Saint Benedict, Prologue 49)

SAINT RAYMOND OF PENYAFORT,

SAID APOLLINARIS,

SAINT NATHALAN,

SAINT PETER THOMAS,

SAINT ADRIAN OF CANTERBURY,

SAINT ANDREW CORSINI, OP,

BLESSED GONSALVO OF AMARANTE, OP,

BLEESED BERNARD SCAMMACCA, OP,

SAINT THEODOSIUS,

SAINT AELRED OF RIEVAULX,

SAINT WILLIAM OF BOURGES,

BLESSED MARGUERITE BOURGEOYS,

SAINT BENEDICT BISCOP,

BLEESED ANN OF THE ANGELES MONTEAGUDO,

SAINTS AGATHA YI AND TERESA KIM,

SAINT GREGORY OF NYSSA,

SAINT HILARY OF POITIERS, BISHOP, DOCTOR, 

PRAY FOR US.

Today's photo: I nearly lost it while getting this shot. Flow river flow. You will draw joyfully from the springs of salvation.

© Gertrude Feick 2024

Fifth Sunday of Lent

The Month of March Devoted to Saint Joseph

In other years: Saint Castulus, Early Christian Martyr on the Via Labicana near Rome

Readings of the Day

Rule of Saint Benedict: Ch 46 Faults Committed in Other Matters

Mass: Ezk 37:12-14; Resp Ps 130; Rm 8:8-11; Jn 11:1-45 

Out of the depths I cry to you, O Lord.

MARY, QUEEN OF PEACE,

SAINT MICHAEL THE ARCHANGEL,

PRAY FOR US.

SAINT JOSEPH,

PRAY FOR US. 

Our friend Lazarus is asleep, but I am going to awaken Him.

(Jn 1:11)

Welcome to the Fifth Sunday of Lent. Since yesterday, I have been thinking about sleeping, death, and living a life of mediocrity. There are various ways in which we walk around sleeping, like zombies, immune to this or that, enclosed in the little boxes that we have constructed for ourselves, and even worse, the little boxes that others have enclosed us in, or think they have enclosed us in. This just won't do for people of faith and hope. Keep going, faithful readers, and break the chains that bind you in one way or another. Awake, O sleeper, and arise from the dead, and Christ will give you light (Eph 5:14). Through the intercession of Mary Most Holy, may our faith and hope in Jesus be strengthened, especially in moments of greater trial and difficulty. Amen.

If the Spirit of the One who raised Jesus from the dead dwells in you, the One who raised Christ from the dead will give life to your mortal bodies also, through His Spirit dwelling in you.

(Rm 8:11)

SAINTS MARTHA, MARY, AND LAZARUS,

SAINT PAUL,

SAINT CASTULUS,

PRAY FOR US.

Today's photo: From last Friday morning, a marvel spotted while on kitchen duty. That You may be revered. 

© Gertrude Feic 2023

Fourth Sunday of Lent

The Month of March Devoted to Saint Joseph

Laetare Sunday

Readings of the Day

Rule of Saint Benedict: Ch 40 The Proper Amount of Drink

Mass: 1 Sm 16:1b, 6-7, 10-13a; Resp Ps 23; Eph 5:8-14

He refreshes my soul.

MARY, QUEEN OF PEACE,

SAINT MICHAEL THE ARCHANGEL,

PRAY FOR US.

SAINT JOSEPH, GLORY OF FAMILY LIFE,

PRAY FOR US.

Now you are light in the Lord.

Live as children of light.

(Eph 5:8)

Welcome to the Fourth Sunday of Lent also called Laetare Sunday. Laetare, Ierusulam, Rejoice, Jerusalem, and all who love her. Be joyful all who were in mourning; exult and be satisfied at her consoling breast (Is 66:10-11, Entrance Antiphon, Mass). Is this a time to reorient ourselves so that the works of God might be more visible through us, as they were through the man blind from birth presented in today's Gospel? (see Jn 9:1-3). Lord, help us to learn what is pleasing to you (see Eph 5:10). It is you who look into our hearts (see 1 Sm 16:7). Help us to remove whatever blinds and hinders us from seeking you with our whole hearts and minds, and with all our strength. It is in Your light that we see light. For light produces every kind of goodness and righteousness and truth (Eph 5:9). May Our Lady help us in this, together with Saint Joseph, man of faith and courage. 

Awake, O sleeper, and arise from the dead, and Christ will give you light.

(Eph 5:14)

Today's photo: Joshua Tree National Park. You are at my side.

© Gertrude Feick 2023

Feast of the Holy Innocents, Martyrs

The Month of December Dedicated to Advent and the Coming of Christ

400th Anniversary of the Death of Saint Francis de Sales, Doctor of the Church (August 21, 1567-December 28, 1622)

Readings of the Day

Rule of Saint Benedict: Ch 70 The Presumption of Striking Another Monk at Will

Mass: 1 Jn 1:5-2:2; Resp Ps 124; Mt 2:13-18

Our soul has been rescued like a bird from a fowler's snare.

MARY, QUEEN OF PEACE,

MARY, QUEEN OF MARTYRS,

PRAY FOR US.

God is light, and in Him there is no darkness at all.

(1 Jn 1:5)

UNTIL

(Hafiz, 1320-1389)

I think we are frightened every

Moment of our lives

Until we

Know

Him.

Herod certainly did not know Him. It may be a good day to ask Our Lord to remove the darkness in our hearts and help us to know Him better. No one is beyond fear, anger, or even the "furious rage" (Mt 2:16) of King Herod. With darkness in our hearts each one of us is capable of things better left unsaid. Saint John is clear: "If we say, 'we have fellowship with Him,' while we continue to walk in darkness, we lie and do not act in truth. But if we walk in the light as He is in the light, then we have fellowship with one another, and the Blood of His Son Jesus cleanses us from all sin (1 Jn 1:6-7). Let us not deceive ourselves then and acknowledge our sins. God is faithful and just and will forgive our sins and cleanse us from every wrongdoing (1 Jn 1:8-9). United in faith and prayer, with the grace of God, we go forth. Jesus, author of life, have mercy on us. 

In today's General Audience, Pope Francis asked all of us to pray especially for his 95-year-old predecessor Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI, who is very ill. The Vatican Press Office confirmed that "in the last few hours there has been an aggravation of his health due to advancing age." We pray then with the Holy Father, "may the Lord sustain him in this witness of love until the very end." The Pope Emeritus has led such a long and full life dedicated to God and the Church. Thank you, Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI.

ALL HOLY INNOCENTS,

SERVANT OF GOD JEROME LEJUENE,

SAINT FRANCIS DE SALES, 

PRAY FOR US. 

Today's photo: From the archives, 2021. Just like the holy innocents, this bird is minding his own business, not bothering a soul. He was busy just being a bird. Just like those poor children, all of those boys in Bethlehem and its vicinity two years old and under (see Mt 2:16). They were just busy being boys. Broken from the snare and we were freed.

© Gertrude Feick 2022

Tuesday of the Twelfth Week in Ordinary Time

Year of the Family "Amoris Laetitia The Joy of Love"

Saints: Saint Aloysius Gonzaga (1568-1591); Saint John Rigby (1570-1600)

Readings of the Day

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

Mass: 2 Kgs 19:9b-11, 14-21, 31-35a, 36; Resp Ps 48; Mt 7:6, 12-14

Great is the Lord and holy to be praised.

MARY, QUEEN OF PEACE,

PRAY FOR US.

Welcome to the Summer Solstice. In Your light we see light. It is said that one of our saints of the day, Saint Aloysious Gonzaga sought solace in daily prayer to Mary, beginning at the age of seven. And he joined the Society of Jesus as the age of 16 or 17. May Saint Aloysious Gonzaga intercede for all Jesuits. Ad maiorem Dei gloriam For the greater glory of God!

We are given another clear command by Jesus today. You will recognize it as the Golden Rule: Do to others whatever you would have them do to you (Mt 7:12). Jesus, meek and humble of heart, have mercy on us.

Meekness was the method of 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, 1815-1888)

SAINT ALOYSIUS GONZAGA,

SAINT JOHN RIGBY,

PRAY FOR US.

Today's photo: This one is coming along nicely. Renowned is He as a stronghold.

© Gertrude Feick 2022

Wednesday of the Fourth Week of Easter

Year of the Family "Amoris Laetitia The Joy of Love"

Saints: Holy Abbots of Cluny, Saints Odo, Mailous, Odilo and Hugh; The Carthusian Martyrs (16th century)

Readings of the Day

Rule of Saint Benedict: Ch 2:1-10 Qualities of the Abbot

Mass: Acts 12:24-13Christ:5a; Resp Ps 67; Jn 12:44-50

May God bless us.

MARY, QUEEN OF PEACE,

PRAY FOR US.

The word of God continued to spread and grow.

(Acts 12:24)

Jesus cries out to us today: I came into the world as light, so that everyone who believes in me might not remain in darkness (Jn 12:46). Dear Lord, we believe, help our unbelief. May we receive the Light and, through word and deed, be shining lights for others. May all the people praise you, O God; may all the peoples praise you!

Christ must live in us, so that we might give Him to others.

(E. Leseur, The Secret Diary of Elisabeth Leseur, p. 162)

A simple contact can sometimes be the best sermon; a spark can start a great flame.

(ibid, p. 164)

HOLY ABBOTS OF CLUNY,

THE CARTHUSIAN MARTYRS,

PRAY FOR US.

Today's photo: Enjoy these fairy bells, fitting for a blessing. Thank you, dear Catherine.

© Gertrude Feick 2022

Tuesday of the Tenth Week in Ordinary Time

Readings of the day: RB 9 The Number of Psalms at the Night Office

Mass: 1 K 17:7-16; Resp Ps 4; Mt 5:13-16

Salvator Mundi, Leonardo DaVinci

O Lord, let the light of your countenance shine upon us!

(Resp Ps 4)

O the beauty of the face of Jesus Christ shining upon us! We are illuminated in LIGHT becoming light of the world. What does it mean, then, that our light must shine before others? What comes to mind this morning are deeds of loving kindness. How might you extend deeds of loving kindness in small yet significant ways to those you meet today? Not so for your own glory and edification but rather that others may see your good deeds and glorify your heavenly Father.

Living and true God,

from whom all good things come,

grant that we, who call on you in our need,

may at your prompting discern what is right,

and by your guidance do it.

Through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son,

who lives and reigns with you in the unity

of the Holy Spirit, one God,

for ever and ever.

(Collect, Mass)

Saturday of the Fourth Week of Easter

Saint Peter Chantal (d. 1841)

Readings of the day: RB 70 The Presumption of Striking Another Monk at Will

Mass: Ac 13:44-52; Resp Ps 98; Jn 14:7-14

O CHOSEN PEOPLE, PROCLAIM THE MIGHTY WORKS OF HIM WHO CALLED YOU OUT OF DARKNESS INTO HIS WONDERFUL LIGHT.

(Entrance Antiphon, Mass)

O the mighty works God has done for us, individually and collectively. Why not recall the love and mercy God has bestowed upon you over the years. The Holy Father suggests we do this in prayer:

Prayer, because it is nourished by the gift of God present and at work in our lives, must always be marked by remembrance. The memory of God’s works is central to the experience of the covenant between God and his people. God wished to enter history, and so our prayer is interwoven with memories. We think back not only on his revealed Word, but also on our own lives, the lives of others, and all that the Lord has done in his Church. This is the grateful memory that Saint Ignatius of Loyola refers to in his Contemplation for Attaining Love, when he asks us to be mindful of all the blessings we have received from the Lord. Think of your own history when you pray, and there you will find much mercy. This will also increase your awareness that the Lord is ever mindful of you; he never forgets you. So it makes sense to ask him to shed light on the smallest details of your life, for he sees them all.

(Gaudete et Exsultate, 153)

May we be

FILLED WITH JOY AND THE HOLY SPIRIT!

IF YOU ASK ANYTHING IN MY NAME,

I WILL DO IT.

(Jn 14:14)

Wednesday of the Second Week of Easter

Readings of the day: RB 58:1-16 The Reception of Candidates for the Community

Mass: Ac 5:17-26; Resp Ps 34; Jn 3:16-21

GOD SO LOVED THE WORLD THAT HE GAVE HIS ONLY-BEGOTTEN SON,

SO THAT EVERYONE WHO BELIEVES IN HIM MIGHT NOT PERISH

BUT HAVE ETERNAL LIFE.

When you feel in your marrow how you’re his beloved,

you do more than look for signs of his love in the world,

more than have a sign of his love; you actually

become a sign of his love. (A. Voskamp)

WHOEVER LIVES THE TRUTH COMES TO LIGHT SO THAT HIS WORKS MAY BE CLEARLY SEEN AS DONE IN GOD.

How will you be a sign of God’s LIGHT and LOVE today?

Keeping a heart free of all that tarnishes love: that is holiness.

(Pope Francis, Apostolic Exhortation Gaudete et Exsultate, 86)

SOLEMNITY OF THE EPIPHANY OF THE LORD

In other years: St Raymond of Peñafort (1175-1275)

Readings of the day: RB Prol. 45-50

Mass: Isaiah 60:1-6; Resp. Psalm 72; Eph 3:2-3a, 5-6; Matthew 2:1-12

WE SAW HIS STAR AT ITS RISING. 

From Karl Rahner, The Great Church Year

Thrown down your defenses! The star is shining! Why shouldn’t we, then, believe and go on the journey? Why shouldn’t we look to the star in the firmament of our hearts? Why not follow the light?

A new year has begun. During this year, too, all the paths from east to west, from morning until evening, lead on and on as far as the eye can see, through the deserts of life with all its changes. But these paths can be turned into the blessed pilgrimage to the absolute, the journey of God. Set out, my heart, take up the journey! The star shines. You can’t take much with you on the journey. And you will lose much of it along the way. Let it go. Gold of love, incense of yearning, myrrh of suffering—these you certainly have with you. He shall accept them. And we shall find him.

                                                         

ON ENTERING THE HOUSE THEY SAW THE CHILD WITH MARY HIS MOTHER.

THEY PROSTRATED THEMSELVES AND DID HIM HOMAGE.

When the king of heaven was born, the heavens knew that he was God because he immediately set forth a star; the sea knew him because it allowed him to walk upon it;

the earth knew him because it trembled when he died; the sun knew him because it hid the rays of his light.

(Saint Gregory the Great)

THEN THEY OPENED THEIR TREASURES AND OFFERED HIM GIFTS OF GOLD, FRANKINCENSE, AND MYRRH.

What shall we let go of this year?

Let us offer it to the CHILD; HE shall accept it.