SIXTH SUNDAY OF EASTER
SUNDAY, MAY 25, JOHN 14:23-29
(Acts 15:1-2, 22-29; Psalm 67; Revelation 21:10-14, 22-23)
KEY VERSE: "Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you" (John 14:27).
TO KNOW: As Jesus faced the cross and his final battle with the powers of evil, he comforted his fearful and bewildered disciples about his impending departure. The disciples were afraid that Jesus was abandoning them, but he assured them that he would not leave them orphans. He and the Father would send another advocate (Greek, parakletos), the Holy Spirit. A "paraclete" was legal terminology for an advocate, one who would give witness in someone's favor in a court of law. The Holy Spirit would lead the disciples into a deeper truth about God and remind them of everything that Jesus taught them. The unbelieving world could not accept these divine truths because they did not love Jesus and did not keep his commands. Jesus' disciples would prove their love by obedience to his word. Jesus granted his followers the gift of peace as they awaited the fulfillment of his promises. The peace that Jesus offered his followers was not the absence of strife, but everything that made for their highest good (Hebrew, "shalom"). Jesus was going back to his Father and would be released from the human limitations of this world. He would be restored to his glory, and if his disciples loved him, they would be glad that it was so.
TO LOVE: Am I being true to Christ's word at home and work?
TO SERVE: Risen Lord, send your Spirit to stand beside your Church in times of trouble.
SUNDAY, MAY 25, JOHN 14:23-29
(Acts 15:1-2, 22-29; Psalm 67; Revelation 21:10-14, 22-23)
KEY VERSE: "Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you" (John 14:27).
TO KNOW: As Jesus faced the cross and his final battle with the powers of evil, he comforted his fearful and bewildered disciples about his impending departure. The disciples were afraid that Jesus was abandoning them, but he assured them that he would not leave them orphans. He and the Father would send another advocate (Greek, parakletos), the Holy Spirit. A "paraclete" was legal terminology for an advocate, one who would give witness in someone's favor in a court of law. The Holy Spirit would lead the disciples into a deeper truth about God and remind them of everything that Jesus taught them. The unbelieving world could not accept these divine truths because they did not love Jesus and did not keep his commands. Jesus' disciples would prove their love by obedience to his word. Jesus granted his followers the gift of peace as they awaited the fulfillment of his promises. The peace that Jesus offered his followers was not the absence of strife, but everything that made for their highest good (Hebrew, "shalom"). Jesus was going back to his Father and would be released from the human limitations of this world. He would be restored to his glory, and if his disciples loved him, they would be glad that it was so.
TO LOVE: Am I being true to Christ's word at home and work?
TO SERVE: Risen Lord, send your Spirit to stand beside your Church in times of trouble.
MONDAY, MAY 26, JOHN 15:26--16:4a
Memorial of Saint Philip Neri, Priest
(Acts 16:11-15; Psalm 149)
KEY VERSE: "The hour is coming when everyone who kills you will think he is offering worship to God" (John 15:16:2).
TO KNOW: Jesus warned his followers that persecution and suffering awaited those who proclaimed the gospel. He told them that the "Advocate," the "Spirit of truth" (15:26), would bear witness to his words and strengthen them in the coming trials. An age of oppression and, at times, violent persecution of the Church existed from the time of Christ's death until the Edict of Tolerance was issued by the Roman Emperor Constantine (312 CE). The original Greek word martus meant giving one's testimony in court. As so many valiant Christians chose to die rather than renounce their commitment to Christ, the focus changed to mean the "martyrs" who died giving testimony to their faith.
TO LOVE: Do I speak the truth at home and work?
TO SERVE: Risen Lord, give the Church the courage to be true to your words despite obstacles and suffering.
Memorial of Saint Philip Neri, Priest
(Acts 16:11-15; Psalm 149)
KEY VERSE: "The hour is coming when everyone who kills you will think he is offering worship to God" (John 15:16:2).
TO KNOW: Jesus warned his followers that persecution and suffering awaited those who proclaimed the gospel. He told them that the "Advocate," the "Spirit of truth" (15:26), would bear witness to his words and strengthen them in the coming trials. An age of oppression and, at times, violent persecution of the Church existed from the time of Christ's death until the Edict of Tolerance was issued by the Roman Emperor Constantine (312 CE). The original Greek word martus meant giving one's testimony in court. As so many valiant Christians chose to die rather than renounce their commitment to Christ, the focus changed to mean the "martyrs" who died giving testimony to their faith.
TO LOVE: Do I speak the truth at home and work?
TO SERVE: Risen Lord, give the Church the courage to be true to your words despite obstacles and suffering.
Memorial of Saint Philip Neri, Priest
Philip Neri founded the Confraternity of the Most Holy Trinity. When he began to preach, he had many converts. In 1550 he considered retiring to the life of a solitary hermit, but he received visions that told him his mission was in Rome. He entered the Priesthood in 1551. He heard confessions by the hour and could tell penitents their sins before they confessed them. Pope Gregory XIV tried to make him a cardinal, but Philip declined. His popularity was such that he was accused of forming his own sect, but he was cleared of this baseless charge. He founded the Congregation of the Oratory, a group of Priests dedicated to preaching and teaching, but suffered from accusations of heresy because of the involvement of laymen as preachers. In later years, he was beset by several illnesses, each of which was cured through prayer. In 1594, when he was in agony of pain, the Blessed Virgin appeared to him, and he was cured. Philip died in 1595 and was canonized by Gregory XV in 1622.
Philip Neri founded the Confraternity of the Most Holy Trinity. When he began to preach, he had many converts. In 1550 he considered retiring to the life of a solitary hermit, but he received visions that told him his mission was in Rome. He entered the Priesthood in 1551. He heard confessions by the hour and could tell penitents their sins before they confessed them. Pope Gregory XIV tried to make him a cardinal, but Philip declined. His popularity was such that he was accused of forming his own sect, but he was cleared of this baseless charge. He founded the Congregation of the Oratory, a group of Priests dedicated to preaching and teaching, but suffered from accusations of heresy because of the involvement of laymen as preachers. In later years, he was beset by several illnesses, each of which was cured through prayer. In 1594, when he was in agony of pain, the Blessed Virgin appeared to him, and he was cured. Philip died in 1595 and was canonized by Gregory XV in 1622.
Memorial Day (USA)
"The memory of the righteous will be a blessing." Proverbs 10: 7
Memorial Day, originally known as Decoration Day, was established in 1868 to commemorate those who had died in the Civil War. The first official observance included a program at the National Cemetery at Arlington and memorial services in various communities. General John A. Logan of the Grand Army of the Republic designated May 30, 1868, "as a day for strewing with flowers or otherwise decorating the graves of comrades who died in defense of their country, and whose bodies now lie in almost every city, village, hamlet or churchyard in the land." Memorial Day was expanded after World War I to include American casualties of any war or military action. It is celebrated in most states on the last Monday in May.
"The memory of the righteous will be a blessing." Proverbs 10: 7
Memorial Day, originally known as Decoration Day, was established in 1868 to commemorate those who had died in the Civil War. The first official observance included a program at the National Cemetery at Arlington and memorial services in various communities. General John A. Logan of the Grand Army of the Republic designated May 30, 1868, "as a day for strewing with flowers or otherwise decorating the graves of comrades who died in defense of their country, and whose bodies now lie in almost every city, village, hamlet or churchyard in the land." Memorial Day was expanded after World War I to include American casualties of any war or military action. It is celebrated in most states on the last Monday in May.
TUESDAY, MAY 27, JOHN 16:5-11
Easter Weekday
(Acts 16:22-34; Psalm 138)
KEY VERSE: "For if I do not go, the Advocate will not come to you" (John 16:7).
TO KNOW: As Jesus prepared for his passion and death, he consoled his grief-stricken disciples. He promised them that when he ascended to the Father, the Spirit would be sent to comfort and empower them. John used legal language to describe the Spirit's work. The Spirit would act as an "advocate" of those who were falsely accused, and would "prosecute" those who refused to believe in Jesus. In the eyes of the world, Jesus was put on trial, found guilty, and sentenced to die in disgrace. But the Spirit proved the world wrong, and the judgment was reversed. The ruler of darkness was the one who was tried, convicted, and condemned. Truth triumphed and justice prevailed.
TO LOVE: Do I defend others when they are falsely accused?
TO SERVE: Risen Lord, send your Spirit to help the Church bear witness to your truth.
Easter Weekday
(Acts 16:22-34; Psalm 138)
KEY VERSE: "For if I do not go, the Advocate will not come to you" (John 16:7).
TO KNOW: As Jesus prepared for his passion and death, he consoled his grief-stricken disciples. He promised them that when he ascended to the Father, the Spirit would be sent to comfort and empower them. John used legal language to describe the Spirit's work. The Spirit would act as an "advocate" of those who were falsely accused, and would "prosecute" those who refused to believe in Jesus. In the eyes of the world, Jesus was put on trial, found guilty, and sentenced to die in disgrace. But the Spirit proved the world wrong, and the judgment was reversed. The ruler of darkness was the one who was tried, convicted, and condemned. Truth triumphed and justice prevailed.
TO LOVE: Do I defend others when they are falsely accused?
TO SERVE: Risen Lord, send your Spirit to help the Church bear witness to your truth.
Optional Memorial of Saint Augustine of Canterbury, Bishop
Augustine of Canterbury was a monk and Abbot of St. Andrew's Abbey in Rome. He was sent by Pope Gregory the Great with 40 brother monks, including Saint Lawrence of Canterbury, to evangelize the British Isles in 597. One of Augustine’s earliest converts was King Ethelbert who brought 10,000 of his people into the Church. Ordained a bishop in Gaul (modern France) by the archbishop of Arles, Augustine became the Bishop of the first Archbishop of Canterbury. He helped re-establish contact between the Celtic and Latin churches, though he could not bring about his desired uniformity of liturgy and practices. The limited success Augustine achieved in England before he died in 605, a short eight years after he arrived in England, would eventually bear fruit long afterward in the conversion of England. Augustine of Canterbury can truly be called the “Apostle of England.” Anglican Archbishops of Canterbury are still referred to as occupying the Chair of Augustine.
Augustine of Canterbury was a monk and Abbot of St. Andrew's Abbey in Rome. He was sent by Pope Gregory the Great with 40 brother monks, including Saint Lawrence of Canterbury, to evangelize the British Isles in 597. One of Augustine’s earliest converts was King Ethelbert who brought 10,000 of his people into the Church. Ordained a bishop in Gaul (modern France) by the archbishop of Arles, Augustine became the Bishop of the first Archbishop of Canterbury. He helped re-establish contact between the Celtic and Latin churches, though he could not bring about his desired uniformity of liturgy and practices. The limited success Augustine achieved in England before he died in 605, a short eight years after he arrived in England, would eventually bear fruit long afterward in the conversion of England. Augustine of Canterbury can truly be called the “Apostle of England.” Anglican Archbishops of Canterbury are still referred to as occupying the Chair of Augustine.
WEDNESDAY, MAY 28, JOHN 16:12-15
Easter Weekday
(Acts 17:15, 22 -- 18:1; Psalm 148)
KEY VERSE: "But when he comes, the Spirit of truth, he will guide you to all truth" (John 16:13).
TO KNOW: Jesus had so much to tell his disciples before his passion and death, but he promised them that the Holy Spirit would continue to enlighten their minds after his departure. Those things that confused and perplexed them would be clarified by the Spirit who would be their constant companion and would guide them to all truth. “Revelation” is the word for bringing God's truth to people. The divine revelation of the Father and Son through the Spirit was transmitted by the apostles and the evangelists through their teaching, example, institutions, and writings. This "Apostolic Tradition" has been preserved by the Spirit in the doctrine, worship, and sacraments of the Church. Divine revelation did not cease with the death of the apostles. The Spirit continues to interpret Christ's eternal message of love and truth for each generation.
TO LOVE: Do I share my faith with others?
TO SERVE: Risen Lord, help the Church to grow in knowledge and wisdom of God's truth.
Easter Weekday
(Acts 17:15, 22 -- 18:1; Psalm 148)
KEY VERSE: "But when he comes, the Spirit of truth, he will guide you to all truth" (John 16:13).
TO KNOW: Jesus had so much to tell his disciples before his passion and death, but he promised them that the Holy Spirit would continue to enlighten their minds after his departure. Those things that confused and perplexed them would be clarified by the Spirit who would be their constant companion and would guide them to all truth. “Revelation” is the word for bringing God's truth to people. The divine revelation of the Father and Son through the Spirit was transmitted by the apostles and the evangelists through their teaching, example, institutions, and writings. This "Apostolic Tradition" has been preserved by the Spirit in the doctrine, worship, and sacraments of the Church. Divine revelation did not cease with the death of the apostles. The Spirit continues to interpret Christ's eternal message of love and truth for each generation.
TO LOVE: Do I share my faith with others?
TO SERVE: Risen Lord, help the Church to grow in knowledge and wisdom of God's truth.
SOLEMNITY OF THE ASCENSION OF THE LORD*
(Holy Day of Obligation)
THURSDAY, MAY 29, LUKE 24:46-53
(Acts 1:1-11; Psalm 47; Ephesians 1:17-23 or Hebrews 9:24-28, 10:19-23)
KEY VERSE: "As he blessed them he parted from them and was taken up to heaven" (Luke 24:51).
TO KNOW: Luke ends his gospel with the ascension of Jesus Christ, and the ascension also begins the Acts of the Apostles, Luke’s account of the early Church (Acts 1:1-12). When the Risen Christ appeared to his disciples for the last time on earth, he opened their minds to understand his passion, death, and resurrection—God's plan foretold in the scriptures. Jesus' disciples were witnesses to these events. Now they would become "apostles," those sent forth in the power of Christ's name to proclaim the gospel. The apostles would not testify to this truth on their own. The Spirit would "clothe" them with "power from on high" (Lk 24:49; Acts 2:1-4). After Jesus blessed them and was taken to heaven, the disciples returned to Jerusalem with great joy. There they awaited the promise of the Spirit’s coming at Pentecost.
TO LOVE: Do I seek the Spirit's direction in my life?
TO SERVE: Risen Lord, send forth your Spirit to renew the Church with love and joy.
NOTE: In some dioceses, the Feast of the Ascension is celebrated on the Seventh Sunday of Easter. In those places, the readings for today are Acts 18:1-8; Psalm 98; John 16:16-20.
(Holy Day of Obligation)
THURSDAY, MAY 29, LUKE 24:46-53
(Acts 1:1-11; Psalm 47; Ephesians 1:17-23 or Hebrews 9:24-28, 10:19-23)
KEY VERSE: "As he blessed them he parted from them and was taken up to heaven" (Luke 24:51).
TO KNOW: Luke ends his gospel with the ascension of Jesus Christ, and the ascension also begins the Acts of the Apostles, Luke’s account of the early Church (Acts 1:1-12). When the Risen Christ appeared to his disciples for the last time on earth, he opened their minds to understand his passion, death, and resurrection—God's plan foretold in the scriptures. Jesus' disciples were witnesses to these events. Now they would become "apostles," those sent forth in the power of Christ's name to proclaim the gospel. The apostles would not testify to this truth on their own. The Spirit would "clothe" them with "power from on high" (Lk 24:49; Acts 2:1-4). After Jesus blessed them and was taken to heaven, the disciples returned to Jerusalem with great joy. There they awaited the promise of the Spirit’s coming at Pentecost.
TO LOVE: Do I seek the Spirit's direction in my life?
TO SERVE: Risen Lord, send forth your Spirit to renew the Church with love and joy.
NOTE: In some dioceses, the Feast of the Ascension is celebrated on the Seventh Sunday of Easter. In those places, the readings for today are Acts 18:1-8; Psalm 98; John 16:16-20.
FRIDAY, MAY 30, JOHN 16:20-23
Easter Weekday
(Acts 18:9-18; Psalm 47)
KEY VERSE: "But I will see you again, and your hearts will rejoice" (John 16:22).
TO KNOW: Before his passion and death, Jesus consoled his disciples who were distressed at the thought that he was about to be taken from them. Jesus compared their grief to that of a woman who travailed in labor. When the child was born, the woman was no longer in anguish but rejoiced that a new life has been brought forth. The prophet Isaiah used this image of childbirth when speaking of the suffering of Israel before her restoration (Is 26:17-19). Paul said that "all creation was groaning and in labor pains" awaiting the fullness of redemption (Ro 8:22). Jesus' disciples were in tribulation because they were on the threshold of a new age. When they saw the Risen Lord, they would rejoice, and on that happy day, their joy would be complete (Jn 20:20). In this life, there will always be unanswered questions and unresolved problems. In the age to come, there will be the fullness of knowledge in Christ.
TO LOVE: Who needs my words of comfort today?
TO SERVE: Risen Lord, help the Church focus upon your glory in times of travail.
Easter Weekday
(Acts 18:9-18; Psalm 47)
KEY VERSE: "But I will see you again, and your hearts will rejoice" (John 16:22).
TO KNOW: Before his passion and death, Jesus consoled his disciples who were distressed at the thought that he was about to be taken from them. Jesus compared their grief to that of a woman who travailed in labor. When the child was born, the woman was no longer in anguish but rejoiced that a new life has been brought forth. The prophet Isaiah used this image of childbirth when speaking of the suffering of Israel before her restoration (Is 26:17-19). Paul said that "all creation was groaning and in labor pains" awaiting the fullness of redemption (Ro 8:22). Jesus' disciples were in tribulation because they were on the threshold of a new age. When they saw the Risen Lord, they would rejoice, and on that happy day, their joy would be complete (Jn 20:20). In this life, there will always be unanswered questions and unresolved problems. In the age to come, there will be the fullness of knowledge in Christ.
TO LOVE: Who needs my words of comfort today?
TO SERVE: Risen Lord, help the Church focus upon your glory in times of travail.
Optional Memorial, Saint Paul VI, Pope
Pope Paul VI was born Giovanni Battista Montini, September 26, 1897, Concesio, near Brescia, Italy. In his early years, he was educated at home because of frail health. Later, he studied in Brescia. Ordained a Priest on May 29, 1920, he was sent by his bishop to Rome for higher studies and was eventually recruited for the Vatican diplomatic service, and resumed work at the Vatican Secretariat of State, where he remained in posts for more than 30 years. In the beginning of November 1954, Pope Pius XII appointed him archbishop of Milan, and Pope John XXIII named him a cardinal in 1958. He was elected Pope on June 21, 1963, to be known as Paul VI. His pontificate began in the period following the difficult first session of the Second Vatican Council. From the very outset of his years as Pope, Paul VI gave clear evidence of the importance he attached to the study and the solution of social problems and to their impact on world peace. In 2012. Pope Benedict XVI declared that Paul had lived “a life of heroic virtue.” Two years later, he was beatified by Benedict’s successor, Francis. He was canonized by Pope Francis in October 2018.
Pope Paul VI was born Giovanni Battista Montini, September 26, 1897, Concesio, near Brescia, Italy. In his early years, he was educated at home because of frail health. Later, he studied in Brescia. Ordained a Priest on May 29, 1920, he was sent by his bishop to Rome for higher studies and was eventually recruited for the Vatican diplomatic service, and resumed work at the Vatican Secretariat of State, where he remained in posts for more than 30 years. In the beginning of November 1954, Pope Pius XII appointed him archbishop of Milan, and Pope John XXIII named him a cardinal in 1958. He was elected Pope on June 21, 1963, to be known as Paul VI. His pontificate began in the period following the difficult first session of the Second Vatican Council. From the very outset of his years as Pope, Paul VI gave clear evidence of the importance he attached to the study and the solution of social problems and to their impact on world peace. In 2012. Pope Benedict XVI declared that Paul had lived “a life of heroic virtue.” Two years later, he was beatified by Benedict’s successor, Francis. He was canonized by Pope Francis in October 2018.
FEAST OF THE VISITATION OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN MARY
SATURDAY, MAY 31, LUKE 1:39-56
(Zephaniah 3:14-18a or Romans 12:9-16; Psalm 33)
KEY VERSE: "Blessed are you who believed that what was spoken to you by the Lord would be fulfilled" (Luke 1:45).
TO KNOW: Mary was accorded the greatest honor and privilege given to a Jewish woman, that of being the mother of the long-awaited Messiah (Jesus). The sign of God's promise was that her barren kinswoman Elizabeth had conceived a son in her old age (John the Baptist). Mary was the obedient servant of the Lord, and she traveled the four-day journey to the hill country of Judah (traditionally Ein Karem) to assist her kinswoman Elizabeth "in the hill country of Judah," where David found the Ark of the Covenant. To that same hill country ccame Mary, the definitive Ark, and the bearer of God’s presence. Upon hearing Mary's greeting, the babe within Elizabeth's womb leaped for joy. Elizabeth was astonished that Mary, the mother of her Lord, should come to her. Her words echoed King David's wonderment when the Ark of the Covenant was brought to Jerusalem: "How can the ark of the Lord come to me?" (2 Sm 6:9, 14). Mary was the Arc of the New Covenant bearing her divine son in her womb. Elizabeth proclaimed that Mary was blessed because she trusted that the Lord's words to her would be fulfilled.
TO LOVE: In what ways can I follow Mary's example of joyful obedience?
TO SERVE: Mary my mother, help me to have faith in God's promises to me.
SATURDAY, MAY 31, LUKE 1:39-56
(Zephaniah 3:14-18a or Romans 12:9-16; Psalm 33)
KEY VERSE: "Blessed are you who believed that what was spoken to you by the Lord would be fulfilled" (Luke 1:45).
TO KNOW: Mary was accorded the greatest honor and privilege given to a Jewish woman, that of being the mother of the long-awaited Messiah (Jesus). The sign of God's promise was that her barren kinswoman Elizabeth had conceived a son in her old age (John the Baptist). Mary was the obedient servant of the Lord, and she traveled the four-day journey to the hill country of Judah (traditionally Ein Karem) to assist her kinswoman Elizabeth "in the hill country of Judah," where David found the Ark of the Covenant. To that same hill country ccame Mary, the definitive Ark, and the bearer of God’s presence. Upon hearing Mary's greeting, the babe within Elizabeth's womb leaped for joy. Elizabeth was astonished that Mary, the mother of her Lord, should come to her. Her words echoed King David's wonderment when the Ark of the Covenant was brought to Jerusalem: "How can the ark of the Lord come to me?" (2 Sm 6:9, 14). Mary was the Arc of the New Covenant bearing her divine son in her womb. Elizabeth proclaimed that Mary was blessed because she trusted that the Lord's words to her would be fulfilled.
TO LOVE: In what ways can I follow Mary's example of joyful obedience?
TO SERVE: Mary my mother, help me to have faith in God's promises to me.
SONG OF THE DOVE
A novel of Mary of Nazareth by Kay Murdy
Here is the story of a Jewish woman of the first century, Miryam of Nazareth, who lived in a tiny village nestled in the hills of Israel. She had parents, friends, a husband, a son, and she struggled to understand the strange things happening to her in a time and a place with more than its share of turmoil, both political and religious. What happened tested both her faith and courage. A glossary contains Hebrew and Greek words used in the book. ACTA Publications. Order: http://www.actapublications.com or at www.amazon.com, paperback or Kindle versions.
A novel of Mary of Nazareth by Kay Murdy
Here is the story of a Jewish woman of the first century, Miryam of Nazareth, who lived in a tiny village nestled in the hills of Israel. She had parents, friends, a husband, a son, and she struggled to understand the strange things happening to her in a time and a place with more than its share of turmoil, both political and religious. What happened tested both her faith and courage. A glossary contains Hebrew and Greek words used in the book. ACTA Publications. Order: http://www.actapublications.com or at www.amazon.com, paperback or Kindle versions.
SEVENTH SUNDAY OF EASTER*
SUNDAY, JUNE 1, JOHN 17:20-26
(Acts 7:55-60; Psalm 97; Revelation 22:12-14,16-17, 20)
KEY VERSE: "That they may all be one, as you, Father, are in me and I in you" ( John 17:.21).
TO KNOW: Jesus prayed for his disciples and for all who would believe in him through their proclamation of the Gospel. Jesus knew that there would be powerful forces at work to divide the Church. Arius, a priest from Alexandria (d.336) provoked the first great controversy claiming that Christ was not divine in the same sense that God the Father was. The Council of Nicaea (325) taught that Christ was not created but was "of the same substance (Greek: homoousios) consubstantial with the Father. Further understanding of Christ's identity was the Trinitarian teaching that there is one God, who exists in three equal persons. If the disciples found their unity in the oneness existing between Jesus and his Father, they would be authentic messengers of his life, death and resurrection. Love is the true sign of God's presence. Whoever saw the devotion and unanimity in Jesus' disciples would be convinced of the message they preached. The Eucharistic banquet expresses this unity among believers. The table of the Lord is a foretaste of the oneness that we will one day experience with Christ when we behold the glory he shares with the Father.
TO LOVE: What can I do today to bring unity to my family?
TO SERVE: Risen Lord, help the Church to work for harmony among all peoples.
NOTE: In those places where the solemnity of the Ascension has been transferred to the Seventh Sunday of Easter, the Mass and readings of the Ascension are used: Acts 1:1-11; Ephesians 1:19-23; Luke 24:46-53 (See Ascension Thursday).
SUNDAY, JUNE 1, JOHN 17:20-26
(Acts 7:55-60; Psalm 97; Revelation 22:12-14,16-17, 20)
KEY VERSE: "That they may all be one, as you, Father, are in me and I in you" ( John 17:.21).
TO KNOW: Jesus prayed for his disciples and for all who would believe in him through their proclamation of the Gospel. Jesus knew that there would be powerful forces at work to divide the Church. Arius, a priest from Alexandria (d.336) provoked the first great controversy claiming that Christ was not divine in the same sense that God the Father was. The Council of Nicaea (325) taught that Christ was not created but was "of the same substance (Greek: homoousios) consubstantial with the Father. Further understanding of Christ's identity was the Trinitarian teaching that there is one God, who exists in three equal persons. If the disciples found their unity in the oneness existing between Jesus and his Father, they would be authentic messengers of his life, death and resurrection. Love is the true sign of God's presence. Whoever saw the devotion and unanimity in Jesus' disciples would be convinced of the message they preached. The Eucharistic banquet expresses this unity among believers. The table of the Lord is a foretaste of the oneness that we will one day experience with Christ when we behold the glory he shares with the Father.
TO LOVE: What can I do today to bring unity to my family?
TO SERVE: Risen Lord, help the Church to work for harmony among all peoples.
NOTE: In those places where the solemnity of the Ascension has been transferred to the Seventh Sunday of Easter, the Mass and readings of the Ascension are used: Acts 1:1-11; Ephesians 1:19-23; Luke 24:46-53 (See Ascension Thursday).
SOLEMNITY OF THE ASCENSION OF THE LORD*
SUNDAY, JUNE 1, LUKE 24:46-53
(Acts 1:1-11; Psalm 47; Ephesians 1:17-23 or Hebrews 9:24-28, 10:19-23)
KEY VERSE: "As he blessed them he parted from them and was taken up to heaven" (Luke 24:51).
TO KNOW: Luke ends his gospel with the ascension of Jesus Christ, and the ascension also begins the Acts of the Apostles, Luke’s account of the early Church (Acts 1:1-12). When the Risen Christ appeared to his disciples for the last time on earth, he opened their minds to understand his passion, death, and resurrection—God's plan foretold in the scriptures. Jesus' disciples were witnesses to these events. Now they would become "apostles," those sent forth in the power of Christ's name to proclaim the gospel. The apostles would not testify to this truth on their own. The Spirit would "clothe" them with "power from on high" (Lk 24:49; Acts 2:1-4). After Jesus blessed them and was taken to heaven, the disciples returned to Jerusalem with great joy. There they awaited the promise of the Spirit’s coming at Pentecost.
TO LOVE: Do I seek the Spirit's direction in my life?
TO SERVE: Risen Lord, send forth your Spirit to renew the Church with love and joy.
NOTE: In some dioceses, the Feast of the Ascension is celebrated on the Seventh Sunday of Easter. In those places, the readings for today are Acts 18:1-8; Psalm 98; John 16:16-20.
SUNDAY, JUNE 1, LUKE 24:46-53
(Acts 1:1-11; Psalm 47; Ephesians 1:17-23 or Hebrews 9:24-28, 10:19-23)
KEY VERSE: "As he blessed them he parted from them and was taken up to heaven" (Luke 24:51).
TO KNOW: Luke ends his gospel with the ascension of Jesus Christ, and the ascension also begins the Acts of the Apostles, Luke’s account of the early Church (Acts 1:1-12). When the Risen Christ appeared to his disciples for the last time on earth, he opened their minds to understand his passion, death, and resurrection—God's plan foretold in the scriptures. Jesus' disciples were witnesses to these events. Now they would become "apostles," those sent forth in the power of Christ's name to proclaim the gospel. The apostles would not testify to this truth on their own. The Spirit would "clothe" them with "power from on high" (Lk 24:49; Acts 2:1-4). After Jesus blessed them and was taken to heaven, the disciples returned to Jerusalem with great joy. There they awaited the promise of the Spirit’s coming at Pentecost.
TO LOVE: Do I seek the Spirit's direction in my life?
TO SERVE: Risen Lord, send forth your Spirit to renew the Church with love and joy.
NOTE: In some dioceses, the Feast of the Ascension is celebrated on the Seventh Sunday of Easter. In those places, the readings for today are Acts 18:1-8; Psalm 98; John 16:16-20.
SHAVU'OT BEGINS AT SUNSET (MAY OR JUNE)
Shavu'ot, the Feast of Weeks, is the second of the three major festivals with both historical and agricultural significance (the other two are Passover and Sukkot). Shavuot tells the story of the yearly harvest when all Jews made a pilgrimage to the Temple in Jerusalem. They brought an offering of the first fruit of the harvest as a gesture of thanksgiving. Shavu'ot also commemorates the giving of the Ten Commandments to Moses and the Israelites on Mount Sinai. While the Passover freed the Jews physically from slavery, the giving of the Torah redeemed them spiritually from bondage to idolatry. Shavuot means "weeks", as it is held seven weeks after Passover. Shavu'ot is also known as Pentecost, because it falls on the 50th day after Passover. The Christian holiday of Pentecost occurs 50 days after Easter.
Shavu'ot, the Feast of Weeks, is the second of the three major festivals with both historical and agricultural significance (the other two are Passover and Sukkot). Shavuot tells the story of the yearly harvest when all Jews made a pilgrimage to the Temple in Jerusalem. They brought an offering of the first fruit of the harvest as a gesture of thanksgiving. Shavu'ot also commemorates the giving of the Ten Commandments to Moses and the Israelites on Mount Sinai. While the Passover freed the Jews physically from slavery, the giving of the Torah redeemed them spiritually from bondage to idolatry. Shavuot means "weeks", as it is held seven weeks after Passover. Shavu'ot is also known as Pentecost, because it falls on the 50th day after Passover. The Christian holiday of Pentecost occurs 50 days after Easter.
MONDAY, JUNE 2, JOHN 16:29-33
Easter Weekday
(Acts 19:1-8, Psalm 68)
KEY VERSE: "In the world, you will have trouble, but take courage, I have conquered the world" (John 16:33).
TO KNOW: Before Jesus ascended to his Father, he prepared his followers to face his final "hour" in which he would suffer and die. His disciples naively assumed that they had complete faith in Jesus; however, he forewarned them that when the time came for his passion, they would all fail him. They would scatter like frightened sheep who had lost their shepherd (Zec 13:7). In his agony, Jesus would feel as though even his Father had abandoned him (Mk 15:34). Yet Jesus and his Father could never be separated; He and the Father are one. Jesus told his disciples that they should not despair but have confidence in his presence. Although they would suffer greatly in the world, they must take heart. In Jesus' resurrection, he would be victorious over all evil.
TO LOVE: Who do I need to console that feels they have failed the Lord?
TO SERVE: Risen Lord, help the Church to have courage in times of adversity.
Easter Weekday
(Acts 19:1-8, Psalm 68)
KEY VERSE: "In the world, you will have trouble, but take courage, I have conquered the world" (John 16:33).
TO KNOW: Before Jesus ascended to his Father, he prepared his followers to face his final "hour" in which he would suffer and die. His disciples naively assumed that they had complete faith in Jesus; however, he forewarned them that when the time came for his passion, they would all fail him. They would scatter like frightened sheep who had lost their shepherd (Zec 13:7). In his agony, Jesus would feel as though even his Father had abandoned him (Mk 15:34). Yet Jesus and his Father could never be separated; He and the Father are one. Jesus told his disciples that they should not despair but have confidence in his presence. Although they would suffer greatly in the world, they must take heart. In Jesus' resurrection, he would be victorious over all evil.
TO LOVE: Who do I need to console that feels they have failed the Lord?
TO SERVE: Risen Lord, help the Church to have courage in times of adversity.
Optional Memorial of Saints Marcellinus and Peter, Martyrs
Peter and Marcellinus were two Roman martyrs who suffered under the persecution of the Roman Emperor Diocletian in approximately 303. Marcellinus was a Priest, and Peter an exorcist. Their names are mentioned in the Canon of the Mass (Eucharistic Prayer I). Peter was cast into prison in Rome for confessing the Christian faith. There he set free Paulina, the daughter of Artemius, the keeper of the prison, from an evil spirit that tormented her. Upon hearing this, Artemius and his wife and all their household, and Marcellinus the Priest, who baptized them all. When the judge heard this, he called Peter and Marcellinus before him and threatened them unless they denied Christ. Marcellinus answered with Christian boldness, whereupon he was beaten and shut in a prison without either food or light. Peter was also confined. But when both of them were found unshaken in their testimony, they were beheaded, confessing Jesus Christ with their blood. Sometime later, devout women found the bodies and honorably interred them near the tomb of Saint Tiburtius in the catacombs on the Via Labicana at "the two laurels."
Peter and Marcellinus were two Roman martyrs who suffered under the persecution of the Roman Emperor Diocletian in approximately 303. Marcellinus was a Priest, and Peter an exorcist. Their names are mentioned in the Canon of the Mass (Eucharistic Prayer I). Peter was cast into prison in Rome for confessing the Christian faith. There he set free Paulina, the daughter of Artemius, the keeper of the prison, from an evil spirit that tormented her. Upon hearing this, Artemius and his wife and all their household, and Marcellinus the Priest, who baptized them all. When the judge heard this, he called Peter and Marcellinus before him and threatened them unless they denied Christ. Marcellinus answered with Christian boldness, whereupon he was beaten and shut in a prison without either food or light. Peter was also confined. But when both of them were found unshaken in their testimony, they were beheaded, confessing Jesus Christ with their blood. Sometime later, devout women found the bodies and honorably interred them near the tomb of Saint Tiburtius in the catacombs on the Via Labicana at "the two laurels."
TUESDAY, JUNE 3, JOHN 17:1-11a
Memorial of Charles Lwanga and Companions, Martyrs
(Acts 20:17-27; Psalm 68)
KEY VERSE: "I glorified you on earth by accomplishing the work that you gave me to do" (John 17:.4).
TO KNOW: Jesus was about to complete the work his Father had given him. His "hour" had come, the moment for him to fulfill his mission on earth through his passion, death, and resurrection. Jesus is the High Priest who offered himself as a victim for the salvation of the world. He would bring glory to God through his saving death, and God would in turn glorify him. Jesus had come into the world to reveal the true nature and character of God. He prayed that those who believed that he was the one sent by his Father would share eternal life with him. Jesus asked the Father to protect his followers from all evil. He prayed that the Church would be united in love and demonstrate the oneness that he has with the Father.
TO LOVE: Is there someone who needs my prayers for protection from evil?
TO SERVE: Risen Lord, help me to participate in your work on earth.
Memorial of Charles Lwanga and Companions, Martyrs
(Acts 20:17-27; Psalm 68)
KEY VERSE: "I glorified you on earth by accomplishing the work that you gave me to do" (John 17:.4).
TO KNOW: Jesus was about to complete the work his Father had given him. His "hour" had come, the moment for him to fulfill his mission on earth through his passion, death, and resurrection. Jesus is the High Priest who offered himself as a victim for the salvation of the world. He would bring glory to God through his saving death, and God would in turn glorify him. Jesus had come into the world to reveal the true nature and character of God. He prayed that those who believed that he was the one sent by his Father would share eternal life with him. Jesus asked the Father to protect his followers from all evil. He prayed that the Church would be united in love and demonstrate the oneness that he has with the Father.
TO LOVE: Is there someone who needs my prayers for protection from evil?
TO SERVE: Risen Lord, help me to participate in your work on earth.
Memorial of Saint Charles Lwanga and Companions, Martyrs
There were perhaps 400 court pages in King Kabaka Mwanga's palace in Uganda, Africa. Charles Lwanga was the chief of the pages. He trained the others to be exemplary servants of the king but later pointed them towards Jesus Christ as their Savior. As strong followers of God, they prayed constantly even under threats of death. Charles Lwanga was among those who became the martyrs of Uganda on June 3, 1886. Charles Lwanga's death was a slow one. He was tied to a low stake where he was burnt. He never feared the fire but warned his executioners that there was fire for them that would last forever. The rest of the pages were tied in bundles of threes and thrown into the fire, where they kept singing and praising God until they perished. To honor these modern saints, Paul VI became the first reigning Pope to visit sub-Saharan Africa in 1969, a visit which included a pilgrimage to the site of the martyrs. He also dedicated a site for a church in honor of the martyrs, at the spot where Charles Lwanga was killed in Namugongo.
There were perhaps 400 court pages in King Kabaka Mwanga's palace in Uganda, Africa. Charles Lwanga was the chief of the pages. He trained the others to be exemplary servants of the king but later pointed them towards Jesus Christ as their Savior. As strong followers of God, they prayed constantly even under threats of death. Charles Lwanga was among those who became the martyrs of Uganda on June 3, 1886. Charles Lwanga's death was a slow one. He was tied to a low stake where he was burnt. He never feared the fire but warned his executioners that there was fire for them that would last forever. The rest of the pages were tied in bundles of threes and thrown into the fire, where they kept singing and praising God until they perished. To honor these modern saints, Paul VI became the first reigning Pope to visit sub-Saharan Africa in 1969, a visit which included a pilgrimage to the site of the martyrs. He also dedicated a site for a church in honor of the martyrs, at the spot where Charles Lwanga was killed in Namugongo.
WEDNESDAY, JUNE 4, JOHN 17:11b-19
Easter Weekday
(Acts 20:28-38; Psalm 68)
KEY VERSE: "Consecrate them in truth. Your word is truth" (John 17:17).
TO KNOW: Poised between heaven and earth, Jesus interceded to the Father on behalf of his disciples whom he called 'friends.' As a good shepherd, Jesus protected the flock that the Father had given him (Jn 10:27-29). The only one lost was Judas, the one who gave himself over to the evil one. Jesus consecrated his faithful disciples, that is, he set them apart from the profane world to be holy vessels for God's use. Ironically, Jesus said that he did not pray for the world, and yet he came because God loved the world (Jn 3:16). But in John's gospel, the 'world" stands for a human society without God. As the Father sent Jesus into the world to sanctify it, Jesus sent his disciples into the world to lead people back to God. The disciples would be a means of holiness for the entire world through their dedicated proclamation of divine truth.
TO LOVE: Am I a sign of holiness for others?
TO SERVE: Risen Lord, help me to speak your truth to others.
Easter Weekday
(Acts 20:28-38; Psalm 68)
KEY VERSE: "Consecrate them in truth. Your word is truth" (John 17:17).
TO KNOW: Poised between heaven and earth, Jesus interceded to the Father on behalf of his disciples whom he called 'friends.' As a good shepherd, Jesus protected the flock that the Father had given him (Jn 10:27-29). The only one lost was Judas, the one who gave himself over to the evil one. Jesus consecrated his faithful disciples, that is, he set them apart from the profane world to be holy vessels for God's use. Ironically, Jesus said that he did not pray for the world, and yet he came because God loved the world (Jn 3:16). But in John's gospel, the 'world" stands for a human society without God. As the Father sent Jesus into the world to sanctify it, Jesus sent his disciples into the world to lead people back to God. The disciples would be a means of holiness for the entire world through their dedicated proclamation of divine truth.
TO LOVE: Am I a sign of holiness for others?
TO SERVE: Risen Lord, help me to speak your truth to others.
THURSDAY, JUNE 5, JOHN 17:20-26
Memorial of Saint Boniface, Bishop and Martyr
KEY VERSE: "I gave them the glory you gave me, so that they may be one, as we are one" (John 17:22).
TO KNOW: As Jesus prepared to return to his Father, he prayed for all those who would come to believe in him through his disciples' proclamation of the gospel. Jesus' followers would continue his work on earth by making God's name known. Jesus prayed for the unity of all believers. He longed for the time when Christians would cease their divisions and be united with him in the unity he shared with the Father. The love that existed between the Father and the Son flowed through the Spirit and would be expressed in the love that Christians have for one another. The Christian community should be a reflection of the oneness of the Triune God: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. When the world saw this, they would be attracted to the gospel and believe in Jesus Christ (Jn 13:35).
TO LOVE: Are people able to "read" the gospel that I proclaim by my life?
TO SERVE: Risen Lord, help me to work for unity in my parish.
Memorial of Saint Boniface, Bishop and Martyr
KEY VERSE: "I gave them the glory you gave me, so that they may be one, as we are one" (John 17:22).
TO KNOW: As Jesus prepared to return to his Father, he prayed for all those who would come to believe in him through his disciples' proclamation of the gospel. Jesus' followers would continue his work on earth by making God's name known. Jesus prayed for the unity of all believers. He longed for the time when Christians would cease their divisions and be united with him in the unity he shared with the Father. The love that existed between the Father and the Son flowed through the Spirit and would be expressed in the love that Christians have for one another. The Christian community should be a reflection of the oneness of the Triune God: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. When the world saw this, they would be attracted to the gospel and believe in Jesus Christ (Jn 13:35).
TO LOVE: Are people able to "read" the gospel that I proclaim by my life?
TO SERVE: Risen Lord, help me to work for unity in my parish.
Memorial of Saint Boniface, Bishop and Martyr
Boniface was educated at the Benedictine monastery at Exeter, England. He was a missionary to Germany from 719, assisted by Saint Albinus. Boniface destroyed idols and pagan temples, and then built churches on the sites. In Saxony, Boniface encountered a tribe worshiping a Norse deity in the form of a huge oak tree. Boniface walked up to the tree, removed his shirt, took up an ax, and without a word, hacked down the six-foot wide wooden god. Boniface stood on the trunk and asked, "How stands your mighty god? My God is stronger than he." The crowd's reaction was mixed, but some conversions began. As Archbishop of Mainz, he reformed churches, built religious houses in Germany, and founded or restored the dioceses of Bavaria, Thuringia, and Franconia. Boniface evangelized in Holland but was set upon by a troop of pagans, and he and 52 of his new flock were martyred.
Boniface was educated at the Benedictine monastery at Exeter, England. He was a missionary to Germany from 719, assisted by Saint Albinus. Boniface destroyed idols and pagan temples, and then built churches on the sites. In Saxony, Boniface encountered a tribe worshiping a Norse deity in the form of a huge oak tree. Boniface walked up to the tree, removed his shirt, took up an ax, and without a word, hacked down the six-foot wide wooden god. Boniface stood on the trunk and asked, "How stands your mighty god? My God is stronger than he." The crowd's reaction was mixed, but some conversions began. As Archbishop of Mainz, he reformed churches, built religious houses in Germany, and founded or restored the dioceses of Bavaria, Thuringia, and Franconia. Boniface evangelized in Holland but was set upon by a troop of pagans, and he and 52 of his new flock were martyred.
FRIDAY, JUNE 6, JOHN 21:15-19
Easter Weekday
(Acts 25:13b-21; Psalm 103)
KEY VERSE: Jesus said to him, "Feed my sheep" (John 21:17).
TO KNOW: For each of Peter's three denials, the Risen Lord gave him three opportunities to profess his devotion to him. There are two Greek words used for love in this passage. Agape love is sacrificial love, the love that God has for the Son and all created beings. Phileo love has a different connotation, referring to affection or friendship. Jesus asked Peter twice, "Do you love me?" (Agapas me?). Peter replied, "I love you" (Philo se). The third time, Jesus asked, "Do you love me like a friend?" (Phileis me?). Jesus wanted Peter to know he accepted him in friendship and forgave him for his disavowal of knowing him. To each expression of love, Jesus told Peter to feed his flock. Like Jesus the Good Shepherd, Peter would lay down his life for the sake of the sheep (Jn 10:11). He would walk the same road to the cross that Jesus walked.
TO LOVE: In what ways do I nourish the Lord's flock?
TO SERVE: Risen Lord, I pray for all the shepherds of the Church, especially Pope Leo XIV.
Easter Weekday
(Acts 25:13b-21; Psalm 103)
KEY VERSE: Jesus said to him, "Feed my sheep" (John 21:17).
TO KNOW: For each of Peter's three denials, the Risen Lord gave him three opportunities to profess his devotion to him. There are two Greek words used for love in this passage. Agape love is sacrificial love, the love that God has for the Son and all created beings. Phileo love has a different connotation, referring to affection or friendship. Jesus asked Peter twice, "Do you love me?" (Agapas me?). Peter replied, "I love you" (Philo se). The third time, Jesus asked, "Do you love me like a friend?" (Phileis me?). Jesus wanted Peter to know he accepted him in friendship and forgave him for his disavowal of knowing him. To each expression of love, Jesus told Peter to feed his flock. Like Jesus the Good Shepherd, Peter would lay down his life for the sake of the sheep (Jn 10:11). He would walk the same road to the cross that Jesus walked.
TO LOVE: In what ways do I nourish the Lord's flock?
TO SERVE: Risen Lord, I pray for all the shepherds of the Church, especially Pope Leo XIV.
Optional Memorial of Saint Norbert, Bishop
Norbert of Xanten, a town near the Holland-German border, did not begin his career as a reformer. Quite the opposite; he took holy orders as a career move, a practice that was eroding the credibility and effectiveness of the Church. A narrow escape from death led him to a conversion experience. After three years of self-scrutiny and prayer, he concluded that he should commit himself to Jesus and the ideals of the Gospel. A changed man, he returned to the parish community, determined to live as a principled Priest and anxious to engage in active ministry. He founded the order of Canons Regular of Prémontré, France, also called the Norbertines, starting a reform movement that swept through European monastic houses. The Norbertines vowed to seek Christ by means of community living, poverty, obedience, and celibacy. Norbert held before them the ideal of the first Christians after Pentecost, whose community life was characterized by the power of the Spirit and a desire to be of service to others.
Norbert of Xanten, a town near the Holland-German border, did not begin his career as a reformer. Quite the opposite; he took holy orders as a career move, a practice that was eroding the credibility and effectiveness of the Church. A narrow escape from death led him to a conversion experience. After three years of self-scrutiny and prayer, he concluded that he should commit himself to Jesus and the ideals of the Gospel. A changed man, he returned to the parish community, determined to live as a principled Priest and anxious to engage in active ministry. He founded the order of Canons Regular of Prémontré, France, also called the Norbertines, starting a reform movement that swept through European monastic houses. The Norbertines vowed to seek Christ by means of community living, poverty, obedience, and celibacy. Norbert held before them the ideal of the first Christians after Pentecost, whose community life was characterized by the power of the Spirit and a desire to be of service to others.
SATURDAY, JUNE 7, JOHN 21:20-25
Easter Weekday
(Acts 28:16-20, 30-31; Psalm 11)
KEY VERSE: "What if I want him to remain until I come? What concern is it of yours?" (John 21:23).
TO KNOW: Jesus warned Peter what sort of death awaited him as shepherd of the flock. He then offered Peter another opportunity to follow him (v.19). As they walked along, John, the beloved disciple, followed them. Peter wanted to know about the apostle's fate. Jesus told Peter that it was not his business to know God's plan for someone else. Peter's only concern should be following Jesus. John the evangelist concluded his Gospel by testifying to the truth he had written. Although the whole world could not contain all that might be said about Jesus, we must be content, like Peter, with those things God wishes to reveal to us. Our job is to follow the Lord with our hearts, minds, and wills in step with him.
TO LOVE: In what ways am I being asked to follow Jesus today?
TO SERVE: Risen Lord, help, me to trust in God's plan for my life.
NOTE: According to the apocryphal Acts of Peter, the apostle did not feel he was worthy to die as his Master; therefore, he was crucified head down. Tradition also locates Peter's burial place as directly beneath the high altar where the Basilica of Saint Peter in Rome was later built.
Easter Weekday
(Acts 28:16-20, 30-31; Psalm 11)
KEY VERSE: "What if I want him to remain until I come? What concern is it of yours?" (John 21:23).
TO KNOW: Jesus warned Peter what sort of death awaited him as shepherd of the flock. He then offered Peter another opportunity to follow him (v.19). As they walked along, John, the beloved disciple, followed them. Peter wanted to know about the apostle's fate. Jesus told Peter that it was not his business to know God's plan for someone else. Peter's only concern should be following Jesus. John the evangelist concluded his Gospel by testifying to the truth he had written. Although the whole world could not contain all that might be said about Jesus, we must be content, like Peter, with those things God wishes to reveal to us. Our job is to follow the Lord with our hearts, minds, and wills in step with him.
TO LOVE: In what ways am I being asked to follow Jesus today?
TO SERVE: Risen Lord, help, me to trust in God's plan for my life.
NOTE: According to the apocryphal Acts of Peter, the apostle did not feel he was worthy to die as his Master; therefore, he was crucified head down. Tradition also locates Peter's burial place as directly beneath the high altar where the Basilica of Saint Peter in Rome was later built.
SOLEMNITY OF PENTECOST
SUNDAY, JUNE 8, JOHN 20:19-23 or JOHN 14:15-16, 23b-26
Acts 2:1-11, Psalm 104; 1 Corinthians 12:3b-7, 12-13 or Galatians 5:16-25)
KEY VERSE: He breathed on them and said to them, "Receive the Holy Spirit" (John 20:22).
TO KNOW: The great harvest that Jesus promised (Lk 10:2) had begun at Pentecost, which the Jews dedicated to the gathering and offering of the first fruits (Hb Shavu’ot, 50 days after Passover). The Christian feast of Pentecost, which occurs 50 days after Easter, marks the descent of the Holy Spirit on the disciples (Acts 2:1-4). In John's Gospel, the resurrection, ascension, and the descent of the Spirit occurred on the same Easter Sunday. It is most likely that the disciples were gathered in the upper room where the Last Supper had been held. But they were fearful that the emissaries of the Sanhedrin would come to arrest them. Upon seeing the Risen Lord, the disciples were overjoyed. Just as the breath of God created Adam, the first human being (Gn 2:7), Jesus breathed forth the Spirit, creating the new people of God, the Church. Empowered by the Spirit, Jesus' disciples were sent forth to bring peace through the reconciliation of sinners. The Holy Spirit is the third Person of the Holy Trinity, but more specifically, the love shared by the Father and the Son. “Come, Holy Spirit!” is the fundamental prayer of the Church -- in success or failure, whether one is young or old, rich or poor.
TO LOVE: What gift have you received from the Holy Spirit, and how well are you using it?
TO SERVE: Holy Spirit, help me to bring peace and forgiveness to others.
NOTE: The outpouring of the Spirit at Pentecost is called the birthday of the universal Church. Through the Spirit, the Church realizes her call to preach the Gospel of Christ to the whole world. The double Alleluia at the end of Mass illustrates that the Easter Season has been brought to a close. The Easter Candle is extinguished and moved to the Baptistery. The 90 Days of Lent (40 days) and Easter (50 days) are over, but our call to Mission continues.
SUNDAY, JUNE 8, JOHN 20:19-23 or JOHN 14:15-16, 23b-26
Acts 2:1-11, Psalm 104; 1 Corinthians 12:3b-7, 12-13 or Galatians 5:16-25)
KEY VERSE: He breathed on them and said to them, "Receive the Holy Spirit" (John 20:22).
TO KNOW: The great harvest that Jesus promised (Lk 10:2) had begun at Pentecost, which the Jews dedicated to the gathering and offering of the first fruits (Hb Shavu’ot, 50 days after Passover). The Christian feast of Pentecost, which occurs 50 days after Easter, marks the descent of the Holy Spirit on the disciples (Acts 2:1-4). In John's Gospel, the resurrection, ascension, and the descent of the Spirit occurred on the same Easter Sunday. It is most likely that the disciples were gathered in the upper room where the Last Supper had been held. But they were fearful that the emissaries of the Sanhedrin would come to arrest them. Upon seeing the Risen Lord, the disciples were overjoyed. Just as the breath of God created Adam, the first human being (Gn 2:7), Jesus breathed forth the Spirit, creating the new people of God, the Church. Empowered by the Spirit, Jesus' disciples were sent forth to bring peace through the reconciliation of sinners. The Holy Spirit is the third Person of the Holy Trinity, but more specifically, the love shared by the Father and the Son. “Come, Holy Spirit!” is the fundamental prayer of the Church -- in success or failure, whether one is young or old, rich or poor.
TO LOVE: What gift have you received from the Holy Spirit, and how well are you using it?
TO SERVE: Holy Spirit, help me to bring peace and forgiveness to others.
NOTE: The outpouring of the Spirit at Pentecost is called the birthday of the universal Church. Through the Spirit, the Church realizes her call to preach the Gospel of Christ to the whole world. The double Alleluia at the end of Mass illustrates that the Easter Season has been brought to a close. The Easter Candle is extinguished and moved to the Baptistery. The 90 Days of Lent (40 days) and Easter (50 days) are over, but our call to Mission continues.
MONDAY, JUNE 9, JOHN 19:25-34
Memorial of the Blessed Virgin Mary, Mother of the Church
(Tenth Week in Ordinary Time)
(Genesis 3:9-15, 20; or Acts 1:12-14; Psalm 87)
KEY VERSE: "Woman, behold your son" (John 19:26).
TO KNOW: For the second time in John's gospel Jesus addressed his mother as "woman" (see Wedding at Cana, John 2:4). This unusual title goes back to the first promise of redemption to Eve: "I will put enmity between you (Satan) and the woman" (Gn 3:15). John sees Mary as the "new Eve" whose obedience to God reversed the penalty of death due to sin, and her son as the "new Adam" who opened wide the gates of salvation by his saving death. On Calvary, Satan was crushed through the death of Mary's offspring. When Jesus gave his life to us, he also gave us his mother. Mary stood at the cross with John, the beloved disciple, representing all Christians seeking salvation in Christ. Simeon's prophecy that Mary would "be pierced with a sword so that the thoughts of many hearts may be laid bare" (Lk 2:35) was fulfilled on Calvary. She was the suffering Mother of the Church about to be born. Mary is the role model for all believers. Imitating her dispositions for humility, faithfulness, and praise equips all Christians for full ministry in the Church.
TO LOVE: Have I made a home in my heart for Mary?
TO SERVE: Mary, my mother, help me to be a dutiful son or daughter of the Church.
Memorial of the Blessed Virgin Mary, Mother of the Church
(Tenth Week in Ordinary Time)
(Genesis 3:9-15, 20; or Acts 1:12-14; Psalm 87)
KEY VERSE: "Woman, behold your son" (John 19:26).
TO KNOW: For the second time in John's gospel Jesus addressed his mother as "woman" (see Wedding at Cana, John 2:4). This unusual title goes back to the first promise of redemption to Eve: "I will put enmity between you (Satan) and the woman" (Gn 3:15). John sees Mary as the "new Eve" whose obedience to God reversed the penalty of death due to sin, and her son as the "new Adam" who opened wide the gates of salvation by his saving death. On Calvary, Satan was crushed through the death of Mary's offspring. When Jesus gave his life to us, he also gave us his mother. Mary stood at the cross with John, the beloved disciple, representing all Christians seeking salvation in Christ. Simeon's prophecy that Mary would "be pierced with a sword so that the thoughts of many hearts may be laid bare" (Lk 2:35) was fulfilled on Calvary. She was the suffering Mother of the Church about to be born. Mary is the role model for all believers. Imitating her dispositions for humility, faithfulness, and praise equips all Christians for full ministry in the Church.
TO LOVE: Have I made a home in my heart for Mary?
TO SERVE: Mary, my mother, help me to be a dutiful son or daughter of the Church.
Memorial of the Blessed Virgin Mary, Mother of the Church
Today, the Church celebrates the memorial of the Blessed Virgin Mary as the Mother of the Church. In 2018, Pope Francis declared this new memorial to be added to the Church’s calendar of feasts, to be celebrated on the Monday after Pentecost each year. In doing so, he hopes to “encourage the growth of the maternal sense of the Church in the pastors, religious, and faithful.” Mary is the mother of Christ, and as such, she is a mother to all of us in the Church. She was with the apostles when they gathered on Pentecost to receive the Holy Spirit, and was part of the early ministry of the Church in those days. First taught by St. Ambrose in the fourth century, the title “Mother of the Church” was proclaimed by St. Paul VI in 1964, after the Second Vatican Council.
Today, the Church celebrates the memorial of the Blessed Virgin Mary as the Mother of the Church. In 2018, Pope Francis declared this new memorial to be added to the Church’s calendar of feasts, to be celebrated on the Monday after Pentecost each year. In doing so, he hopes to “encourage the growth of the maternal sense of the Church in the pastors, religious, and faithful.” Mary is the mother of Christ, and as such, she is a mother to all of us in the Church. She was with the apostles when they gathered on Pentecost to receive the Holy Spirit, and was part of the early ministry of the Church in those days. First taught by St. Ambrose in the fourth century, the title “Mother of the Church” was proclaimed by St. Paul VI in 1964, after the Second Vatican Council.
TUESDAY, JUNE 10, MATTHEW 5:13-16
Weekday
(1 Corinthians 1:18-22; Psalm 119)
KEY VERSE: "You are the light of the world. A city set on a mountain cannot be hidden" (Matthew 5:14).
TO KNOW: In his Sermon on the Mount, Jesus spelled out what it meant to be a living sign of God's reign. To influence the world for good, a disciple must be like "salt," which caused others to thirst for God. Jesus' disciples could offer an important ingredient that added zest to peoples’ lives and helped to preserve them from evil. Jesus also commanded his followers to do what he did, to give light to the world (Jn 8:12). In Jesus’ time, a lamp was placed on a lampstand so that it would provide illumination for the whole household. Jesus’ disciples should be beacons of light to those who lost their way. Like John the Baptist, we must decrease so that Christ's light will increase (Jn 3:30). When others see this light they will give glory to God.
TO LOVE: In what ways can I be "salt" and "light" to my community?
TO SERVE: Lord Jesus, help me to live in such a way that others can "taste and see how good the Lord is" (Ps 34:9).
Weekday
(1 Corinthians 1:18-22; Psalm 119)
KEY VERSE: "You are the light of the world. A city set on a mountain cannot be hidden" (Matthew 5:14).
TO KNOW: In his Sermon on the Mount, Jesus spelled out what it meant to be a living sign of God's reign. To influence the world for good, a disciple must be like "salt," which caused others to thirst for God. Jesus' disciples could offer an important ingredient that added zest to peoples’ lives and helped to preserve them from evil. Jesus also commanded his followers to do what he did, to give light to the world (Jn 8:12). In Jesus’ time, a lamp was placed on a lampstand so that it would provide illumination for the whole household. Jesus’ disciples should be beacons of light to those who lost their way. Like John the Baptist, we must decrease so that Christ's light will increase (Jn 3:30). When others see this light they will give glory to God.
TO LOVE: In what ways can I be "salt" and "light" to my community?
TO SERVE: Lord Jesus, help me to live in such a way that others can "taste and see how good the Lord is" (Ps 34:9).
WEDNESDAY, JUNE 11, MATTHEW 5:17-19
Memorial of Saint Barnabas, Apostle
(Acts 11:21b-26, 13:1-3; Psalm 98)
KEY VERSE: "But whoever obeys and teaches these commandments will be called greatest in the kingdom of heaven" (Matthew 5:19b).
TO KNOW: Like Moses, Jesus taught his followers that the law of God had lasting validity and must be obeyed. Jesus emphasized the permanency of God's law by saying that not even the smallest letter in the Hebrew alphabet (yod; in Greek iota) or the tiniest flourish of the pen would pass from the law until its fulfillment in the final age. Jesus' dispute with the religious leaders was not with the Mosaic Law itself but with their legalistic interpretation, expanding the law to 613 rules and regulations. Jesus deepened the meaning of the law through his words and works. Those who understood that the true purpose of the law was justice and charity and practiced it by loving God and one another would inherit a place in God's kingdom. Those who willfully disregard God's law would be excluded from God's reign.
TO LOVE: Do I give a good example by my respect for God's law?
TO SERVE: Lord Jesus, help me to be guided by your law in all I do.
Memorial of Saint Barnabas, Apostle
(Acts 11:21b-26, 13:1-3; Psalm 98)
KEY VERSE: "But whoever obeys and teaches these commandments will be called greatest in the kingdom of heaven" (Matthew 5:19b).
TO KNOW: Like Moses, Jesus taught his followers that the law of God had lasting validity and must be obeyed. Jesus emphasized the permanency of God's law by saying that not even the smallest letter in the Hebrew alphabet (yod; in Greek iota) or the tiniest flourish of the pen would pass from the law until its fulfillment in the final age. Jesus' dispute with the religious leaders was not with the Mosaic Law itself but with their legalistic interpretation, expanding the law to 613 rules and regulations. Jesus deepened the meaning of the law through his words and works. Those who understood that the true purpose of the law was justice and charity and practiced it by loving God and one another would inherit a place in God's kingdom. Those who willfully disregard God's law would be excluded from God's reign.
TO LOVE: Do I give a good example by my respect for God's law?
TO SERVE: Lord Jesus, help me to be guided by your law in all I do.
Memorial of Saint Barnabas, Apostle
Joseph, a Levite from Cyprus, came to the faith soon after Pentecost and took the name Barnabas (“son of encouragement”). Although he was not one of the chosen Twelve Apostles, Barnabas is mentioned frequently in the book of Acts and is considered an Apostle. Barnabas introduced Paul to the Apostles. Like Paul, Barnabas believed in the Church's mission to the Gentiles and was Paul's companion on his first missionary journey to Cyprus and Asia Minor. Paul and Barnabas argued over taking Barnabas' cousin John Mark on their second journey because Mark had deserted them on their first journey. Paul and Barnabas separated, and Barnabas and Mark went on to evangelize in Cyprus. Barnabas was possibly the author of some apocryphal works. Tradition says that he preached in Alexandria and Rome, and was stoned to death at Salamis about 61 AD. He is considered the founder of the Church in Antioch. It was in Antioch that the disciples were first called Christians (Acts 11:26). At the time of his death, it is said that Barnabas was carrying a copy of the Gospel of Saint Matthew, which he had copied by hand.
Joseph, a Levite from Cyprus, came to the faith soon after Pentecost and took the name Barnabas (“son of encouragement”). Although he was not one of the chosen Twelve Apostles, Barnabas is mentioned frequently in the book of Acts and is considered an Apostle. Barnabas introduced Paul to the Apostles. Like Paul, Barnabas believed in the Church's mission to the Gentiles and was Paul's companion on his first missionary journey to Cyprus and Asia Minor. Paul and Barnabas argued over taking Barnabas' cousin John Mark on their second journey because Mark had deserted them on their first journey. Paul and Barnabas separated, and Barnabas and Mark went on to evangelize in Cyprus. Barnabas was possibly the author of some apocryphal works. Tradition says that he preached in Alexandria and Rome, and was stoned to death at Salamis about 61 AD. He is considered the founder of the Church in Antioch. It was in Antioch that the disciples were first called Christians (Acts 11:26). At the time of his death, it is said that Barnabas was carrying a copy of the Gospel of Saint Matthew, which he had copied by hand.
THURSDAY, JUNE 12, MATTHEW 5:20-26
Weekday
(2 Corinthians 3:15--4:1, 3-6; Psalm 85)
KEY VERSE: "Leave your gift at the altar, go first and be reconciled with your brother, and then come and offer your gift" (Matthew 5:24).
TO KNOW: Jesus told his disciples that their holiness must surpass that of the religious leaders who outwardly observed the minute details of the law but inwardly were not submitted to God's will. As their teacher, Jesus' authority was greater than that of Moses. Jesus deepened the literal meaning of the Law of Moses. He condemned the act of murder, but also the anger that brought about the deed. He said that anger was a serious transgression when it bore malice toward another. It was also an offense against God, in whose image we are created. Anyone who has offended another person must first go and be reconciled with that individual before coming to worship God. Without this willingness to change one's heart, punishment, rather than salvation, would be the consequence.
TO LOVE: Reflect on how my words and actions might have offended someone else.
TO SERVE: Lord Jesus, help me to seek reconciliation with my brothers and sisters.
Weekday
(2 Corinthians 3:15--4:1, 3-6; Psalm 85)
KEY VERSE: "Leave your gift at the altar, go first and be reconciled with your brother, and then come and offer your gift" (Matthew 5:24).
TO KNOW: Jesus told his disciples that their holiness must surpass that of the religious leaders who outwardly observed the minute details of the law but inwardly were not submitted to God's will. As their teacher, Jesus' authority was greater than that of Moses. Jesus deepened the literal meaning of the Law of Moses. He condemned the act of murder, but also the anger that brought about the deed. He said that anger was a serious transgression when it bore malice toward another. It was also an offense against God, in whose image we are created. Anyone who has offended another person must first go and be reconciled with that individual before coming to worship God. Without this willingness to change one's heart, punishment, rather than salvation, would be the consequence.
TO LOVE: Reflect on how my words and actions might have offended someone else.
TO SERVE: Lord Jesus, help me to seek reconciliation with my brothers and sisters.
FRIDAY, JUNE 13, MATTHEW 5:27-32
Memorial of Saint Anthony of Padua, Priest and Doctor of the Church
(2 Corinthians 4:7-15; Psalm 115)
KEY VERSE: "It is better for you to lose one of your members than to have your whole body go into Gehenna" (Matthew 5:30).
TO KNOW: Jesus taught his disciples about the sacredness of the marriage contract as written in the Law of Moses (Ex 20:14). As with the prohibition against murder (Mt 5:21-22), Jesus said that sin begins in the mind and heart. Jesus illustrated this by saying that his followers must gouge out their "eyes" or cut off their "hands." Of course, he wasn't speaking literally; he was using Semitic hyperbole to demonstrate his point. If lustful thoughts ("eyes") or deeds ("hands") were occasions of sin, they should be ruthlessly eliminated. This was an indication of how relentless one must be in eradicating sin. It would be better to sacrifice passion and pleasure than to risk being destroyed in "Gehenna." This refuse dump, with its never-ending smoldering fire, was a graphic portrayal of eternal punishment. In Dante's Inferno, there was a sign over the gates of Hades: "All hope abandon ye who enter here."
TO LOVE: What is my attitude towards graphic sex and violence in the media?
TO SERVE: Holy Spirit, help me to be pure in mind and heart.
Memorial of Saint Anthony of Padua, Priest and Doctor of the Church
(2 Corinthians 4:7-15; Psalm 115)
KEY VERSE: "It is better for you to lose one of your members than to have your whole body go into Gehenna" (Matthew 5:30).
TO KNOW: Jesus taught his disciples about the sacredness of the marriage contract as written in the Law of Moses (Ex 20:14). As with the prohibition against murder (Mt 5:21-22), Jesus said that sin begins in the mind and heart. Jesus illustrated this by saying that his followers must gouge out their "eyes" or cut off their "hands." Of course, he wasn't speaking literally; he was using Semitic hyperbole to demonstrate his point. If lustful thoughts ("eyes") or deeds ("hands") were occasions of sin, they should be ruthlessly eliminated. This was an indication of how relentless one must be in eradicating sin. It would be better to sacrifice passion and pleasure than to risk being destroyed in "Gehenna." This refuse dump, with its never-ending smoldering fire, was a graphic portrayal of eternal punishment. In Dante's Inferno, there was a sign over the gates of Hades: "All hope abandon ye who enter here."
TO LOVE: What is my attitude towards graphic sex and violence in the media?
TO SERVE: Holy Spirit, help me to be pure in mind and heart.
Memorial of Saint Anthony of Padua, Priest and Doctor of the Church
Anthony's wealthy family wanted him to be a great nobleman, but for the sake of Christ, he became a poor Franciscan. When the remains of the first Franciscan martyrs, Saint Bernard and his companions, were brought to be buried in his church, Anthony was moved to leave his order, enter the Friars Minor, and go to Morocco to evangelize. He was shipwrecked at Sicily, and he joined some other brothers who were going to Portiuncula. Anthony lived in a cave at San Paolo, leaving only to attend Mass and to sweep the nearby monastery. One day, when a scheduled preacher failed to appear, the brothers pressed him into speaking. Anthony impressed them so much that thereafter he was constantly traveling, evangelizing, preaching, and teaching theology throughout Italy and France. One of the most beloved of saints, his images and statues are found everywhere. He was proclaimed a Doctor of the Church by Pope Pius XII on 16 January, 1946.
Anthony's wealthy family wanted him to be a great nobleman, but for the sake of Christ, he became a poor Franciscan. When the remains of the first Franciscan martyrs, Saint Bernard and his companions, were brought to be buried in his church, Anthony was moved to leave his order, enter the Friars Minor, and go to Morocco to evangelize. He was shipwrecked at Sicily, and he joined some other brothers who were going to Portiuncula. Anthony lived in a cave at San Paolo, leaving only to attend Mass and to sweep the nearby monastery. One day, when a scheduled preacher failed to appear, the brothers pressed him into speaking. Anthony impressed them so much that thereafter he was constantly traveling, evangelizing, preaching, and teaching theology throughout Italy and France. One of the most beloved of saints, his images and statues are found everywhere. He was proclaimed a Doctor of the Church by Pope Pius XII on 16 January, 1946.
SATURDAY, JUNE 14, MATTHEW 5:33-37
Weekday
(2 Corinthians 5:14-21; Psalm 103)
KEY VERSE: "Let your `Yes,' mean `Yes,' and your `No' mean `No'" (Matthew 5: 37).
TO KNOW: God's name was often invoked in an oath as a guarantee of a person's truthfulness. The Law of Moses prohibited profaning God's name by swearing a false oath (Lev 19:12). Some tried to avoid speaking the name of God when taking an oath, appealing instead to heaven, earth, the Holy City, or even their person. Jesus said that this amounted to speaking the divine name since God made all things. He told his disciples they should be straightforward and sincere in their transactions. Paul said that a Christian should not be of two minds. For Christians who were honest in their dealings with others, a simple "Yes" or "No" made oaths unnecessary. Jesus Christ was always an emphatic "Yes" to God's will (2 Cor 1:17-20).
TO LOVE: Am I honest with others? With myself? With God?
TO SERVE: Holy Spirit, fill me with the courage to speak the truth in all circumstances.
Weekday
(2 Corinthians 5:14-21; Psalm 103)
KEY VERSE: "Let your `Yes,' mean `Yes,' and your `No' mean `No'" (Matthew 5: 37).
TO KNOW: God's name was often invoked in an oath as a guarantee of a person's truthfulness. The Law of Moses prohibited profaning God's name by swearing a false oath (Lev 19:12). Some tried to avoid speaking the name of God when taking an oath, appealing instead to heaven, earth, the Holy City, or even their person. Jesus said that this amounted to speaking the divine name since God made all things. He told his disciples they should be straightforward and sincere in their transactions. Paul said that a Christian should not be of two minds. For Christians who were honest in their dealings with others, a simple "Yes" or "No" made oaths unnecessary. Jesus Christ was always an emphatic "Yes" to God's will (2 Cor 1:17-20).
TO LOVE: Am I honest with others? With myself? With God?
TO SERVE: Holy Spirit, fill me with the courage to speak the truth in all circumstances.
Optional Memorial of the Blessed Virgin Mary
Chapter V of the Directory on Popular Piety and Liturgy, issued by the Holy See in December 2001, describes the Church's traditional dedication of Saturday to the Virgin Mary. "Saturdays stand out among those days dedicated to the Virgin Mary. These are designated as memorials of the Blessed Virgin Mary" (218). The chapter also describes the importance of Mary, the Mother of Jesus, in Catholic devotion, in the Liturgy, and reflections on popular devotions to Mary, her feast days, and the Rosary.
“May she, the Mother of the Redeemer and Mother of the Church, obtain through her intercession a renewed outpouring of God’s Spirit upon the Church and upon the world.” Pope Francis
Chapter V of the Directory on Popular Piety and Liturgy, issued by the Holy See in December 2001, describes the Church's traditional dedication of Saturday to the Virgin Mary. "Saturdays stand out among those days dedicated to the Virgin Mary. These are designated as memorials of the Blessed Virgin Mary" (218). The chapter also describes the importance of Mary, the Mother of Jesus, in Catholic devotion, in the Liturgy, and reflections on popular devotions to Mary, her feast days, and the Rosary.
“May she, the Mother of the Redeemer and Mother of the Church, obtain through her intercession a renewed outpouring of God’s Spirit upon the Church and upon the world.” Pope Francis
SONG OF THE DOVE
A Novel of Mary of Nazareth by Kay Murdy
Kay writes the story of a Jewish woman of the first century, Mary of Nazareth, who lived in a tiny village in the hills of Israel. She had parents, friends, a husband, and a son, and she struggled to understand the strange things happening to her in a time and place with more than its share of political and religious turmoil. What happened tested both her faith and courage. A Glossary provides an understanding of the Hebrew words used throughout the book. ACTA Publications. Order: www.actapublications.com or Amazon.com in paperback or Kindle versions.
A Novel of Mary of Nazareth by Kay Murdy
Kay writes the story of a Jewish woman of the first century, Mary of Nazareth, who lived in a tiny village in the hills of Israel. She had parents, friends, a husband, and a son, and she struggled to understand the strange things happening to her in a time and place with more than its share of political and religious turmoil. What happened tested both her faith and courage. A Glossary provides an understanding of the Hebrew words used throughout the book. ACTA Publications. Order: www.actapublications.com or Amazon.com in paperback or Kindle versions.
FLAG DAY (USA)
On June 14, 1777, the Continental Congress adopted the Stars and Stripes pattern for the national flag. This was almost a year after the Declaration of Independence and more than a decade before the U.S. Constitution was finalized. Flag Day was first celebrated in 1877, the centennial of the U.S. flag's existence. After that, many citizens and organizations advocated the adoption of a national day of commemoration for the U.S. Flag. It was not until 1949 that President Harry Truman signed legislation making Flag Day a day of national observance.
On June 14, 1777, the Continental Congress adopted the Stars and Stripes pattern for the national flag. This was almost a year after the Declaration of Independence and more than a decade before the U.S. Constitution was finalized. Flag Day was first celebrated in 1877, the centennial of the U.S. flag's existence. After that, many citizens and organizations advocated the adoption of a national day of commemoration for the U.S. Flag. It was not until 1949 that President Harry Truman signed legislation making Flag Day a day of national observance.
SOLEMNITY OF THE MOST HOLY TRINITY
SUNDAY, JUNE 15, JOHN 16:12-15
(Proverbs 8:22-31; Psalm 8; Romans 5:1-5)
KEY VERSE: "But when he comes, the Spirit of truth, he will guide you to all truth" (John 16:13).
TO KNOW: Jesus promised his disciples that the Holy Spirit would enlighten their minds after he was raised to glory with the Father. The work of Christ would be continued on earth through the indwelling Spirit who would guide the Church to all truth. Just as Jesus only spoke the words he heard from the Father, the Spirit does not speak alone but interprets Christ's eternal message of truth for each generation. The word "Trinity" does not appear in the Bible, but since the year 200 CE, the term has been used to denote the central Christian doctrine that God is absolutely one in nature and essence, and is three distinct persons, Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, co-eternal and deserving equal honor and glory. Each person of the Trinity is whole and complete. The Council of Nicaea (325) taught that Christ was not created but was "of the same substance (Greek: homoousios) consubstantial with the Father, not divided but one. This revelation of the Father and Son through the Spirit was transmitted by the apostles and the evangelists through their teaching, example, institutions, and writings. This "Apostolic Tradition" has been preserved by the Spirit in the doctrine, worship, and sacraments of the Church.
TO LOVE: In what ways do I teach God's truth to others?
TO SERVE: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit illuminate my mind to understand the Church's teachings.
NOTE: Pope John XXII established the feast day for the universal observance of Trinity Sunday in AD 1334.
SUNDAY, JUNE 15, JOHN 16:12-15
(Proverbs 8:22-31; Psalm 8; Romans 5:1-5)
KEY VERSE: "But when he comes, the Spirit of truth, he will guide you to all truth" (John 16:13).
TO KNOW: Jesus promised his disciples that the Holy Spirit would enlighten their minds after he was raised to glory with the Father. The work of Christ would be continued on earth through the indwelling Spirit who would guide the Church to all truth. Just as Jesus only spoke the words he heard from the Father, the Spirit does not speak alone but interprets Christ's eternal message of truth for each generation. The word "Trinity" does not appear in the Bible, but since the year 200 CE, the term has been used to denote the central Christian doctrine that God is absolutely one in nature and essence, and is three distinct persons, Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, co-eternal and deserving equal honor and glory. Each person of the Trinity is whole and complete. The Council of Nicaea (325) taught that Christ was not created but was "of the same substance (Greek: homoousios) consubstantial with the Father, not divided but one. This revelation of the Father and Son through the Spirit was transmitted by the apostles and the evangelists through their teaching, example, institutions, and writings. This "Apostolic Tradition" has been preserved by the Spirit in the doctrine, worship, and sacraments of the Church.
TO LOVE: In what ways do I teach God's truth to others?
TO SERVE: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit illuminate my mind to understand the Church's teachings.
NOTE: Pope John XXII established the feast day for the universal observance of Trinity Sunday in AD 1334.
The United States is one of the few countries in the world that has an official day on which fathers are honored by their children. In 1909, Mrs. Dodd thought of the idea for Father's Day while listening to a Mother's Day sermon. She approached her minister in Spokane about having a church service dedicated to fathers. From then on, the state of Washington celebrated the third Sunday in June as Father's Day. Other states and organizations began lobbying Congress to declare an annual Father's Day. In 1916, President Woodrow Wilson approved of this idea, but it was not until 1924 when President Calvin Coolidge made it a national event to "establish more intimate relations between fathers and their children and to impress upon fathers the full measure of their obligations." In 1966 President Lyndon Johnson signed a presidential proclamation declaring the 3rd Sunday of June as Father's Day and put the official stamp on a celebration that was going on for almost half a century.
“See what love the Father has given us that we should be called children of God, and that is what we are!” I John 3:1
“See what love the Father has given us that we should be called children of God, and that is what we are!” I John 3:1