SECOND SUNDAY OF EASTER (OR DIVINE MERCY SUNDAY)
SUNDAY, APRIL 27, JOHN 20:19-31
(Acts 5:12-16; Psalm 118; Revelation 1:9-11a, 12-13, 17-19)
KEY VERSE: "Blessed are those who have not seen and have believed" (John 20:29).
TO KNOW: On the evening of the resurrection, the disciples were gathered in fear behind locked doors. They were overjoyed when the Risen Lord appeared in their midst with a greeting of "peace" (Hebrew, Shalom). Just as God breathed life into Adam, the first living being (see Gen 2:7), the Son of God breathed the life-giving Spirit upon his disciples, sending them forth with the power to forgive sins. Thomas (called Didymus, meaning “twin”) was absent on this occasion and he refused to believe their testimony. His defiant words, "unless I see" (Jn 20:25) came from one who knew Jesus as an intimate friend. A week later, the Risen Christ appeared again, and this time Thomas was present. When Thomas touched Christ's wounds, he declared Jesus to be his "Lord and God." Jesus told Thomas that those who believed in faith were more blessed than those who needed visible proof.
TO LOVE: Am I Thomas’ twin? Do I refuse to believe unless I see?
TO SERVE: My Lord and my God, help me to believe when my faith wavers.
SUNDAY, APRIL 27, JOHN 20:19-31
(Acts 5:12-16; Psalm 118; Revelation 1:9-11a, 12-13, 17-19)
KEY VERSE: "Blessed are those who have not seen and have believed" (John 20:29).
TO KNOW: On the evening of the resurrection, the disciples were gathered in fear behind locked doors. They were overjoyed when the Risen Lord appeared in their midst with a greeting of "peace" (Hebrew, Shalom). Just as God breathed life into Adam, the first living being (see Gen 2:7), the Son of God breathed the life-giving Spirit upon his disciples, sending them forth with the power to forgive sins. Thomas (called Didymus, meaning “twin”) was absent on this occasion and he refused to believe their testimony. His defiant words, "unless I see" (Jn 20:25) came from one who knew Jesus as an intimate friend. A week later, the Risen Christ appeared again, and this time Thomas was present. When Thomas touched Christ's wounds, he declared Jesus to be his "Lord and God." Jesus told Thomas that those who believed in faith were more blessed than those who needed visible proof.
TO LOVE: Am I Thomas’ twin? Do I refuse to believe unless I see?
TO SERVE: My Lord and my God, help me to believe when my faith wavers.
DIVINE MERCY SUNDAY
Sr. Faustina Kowalska, a Polish nun, was God’s instrument to proclaim Divine mercy toward every human being. Sr. Faustina was inspired by a vision in which Jesus told her that a painting should be made of his image with the invocation "Jesus, I trust in you." She commissioned the painting in 1935. Cardinal Karol Wojtyla, then Archbishop of Krakow (later St. Pope John Paul II), began Sr. Faustina's process of beatification. At her canonization in 2000, the first saint in the new millennium, the Pope designated the Second Sunday of Easter as Divine Mercy Sunday. The Pope's final days coincided with the Church's preparation to celebrate the feast he described as flowing from Christ's "most profound mercy," which the Lord established. Speaking of St. Faustina and the importance of the message in her Diary, the Pope calls her "the great apostle of Divine Mercy in our time."
Sr. Faustina Kowalska, a Polish nun, was God’s instrument to proclaim Divine mercy toward every human being. Sr. Faustina was inspired by a vision in which Jesus told her that a painting should be made of his image with the invocation "Jesus, I trust in you." She commissioned the painting in 1935. Cardinal Karol Wojtyla, then Archbishop of Krakow (later St. Pope John Paul II), began Sr. Faustina's process of beatification. At her canonization in 2000, the first saint in the new millennium, the Pope designated the Second Sunday of Easter as Divine Mercy Sunday. The Pope's final days coincided with the Church's preparation to celebrate the feast he described as flowing from Christ's "most profound mercy," which the Lord established. Speaking of St. Faustina and the importance of the message in her Diary, the Pope calls her "the great apostle of Divine Mercy in our time."
MONDAY, APRIL 28, JOHN 3:1-8
Easter Weekday
(Acts 4:23-31; Psalm 2)
KEY VERSE: "No one can enter the kingdom of God without being born of water and Spirit" (John 3:5).
TO KNOW: Nicodemus was a Pharisee, a member of the Sanhedrin (the Jewish council), and one of the Jerusalem aristocracies. Nicodemus was curious about Jesus but he was afraid to come to him in broad daylight, so he came to him at night. Jesus told him that it was not enough to claim membership in the chosen people. To become a child of God, one must be "born from above" (Jn 3:3). Nicodemus misinterpreted this to mean human birth. Jesus helped him to understand that he could only enter God's kingdom through spiritual rebirth in Baptism, being born of "water and Spirit." Although the workings of the Spirit were invisible, like the wind, anyone could observe the results. Nicodemus' spiritual growth was seen later when he courageously defended Jesus before the Sanhedrin (7:50), and when he came to anoint Jesus' body for burial (19:39).
TO LOVE: Am I seeking to learn more about Jesus?
TO SERVE: Risen Lord, help me to trust in the mysterious workings of the Spirit.
Easter Weekday
(Acts 4:23-31; Psalm 2)
KEY VERSE: "No one can enter the kingdom of God without being born of water and Spirit" (John 3:5).
TO KNOW: Nicodemus was a Pharisee, a member of the Sanhedrin (the Jewish council), and one of the Jerusalem aristocracies. Nicodemus was curious about Jesus but he was afraid to come to him in broad daylight, so he came to him at night. Jesus told him that it was not enough to claim membership in the chosen people. To become a child of God, one must be "born from above" (Jn 3:3). Nicodemus misinterpreted this to mean human birth. Jesus helped him to understand that he could only enter God's kingdom through spiritual rebirth in Baptism, being born of "water and Spirit." Although the workings of the Spirit were invisible, like the wind, anyone could observe the results. Nicodemus' spiritual growth was seen later when he courageously defended Jesus before the Sanhedrin (7:50), and when he came to anoint Jesus' body for burial (19:39).
TO LOVE: Am I seeking to learn more about Jesus?
TO SERVE: Risen Lord, help me to trust in the mysterious workings of the Spirit.
Optional Memorial of Saint Peter Chanel, Priest and Martyr
Peter Chanel was born in France and was ordained in 1827 at age 24. He was assigned to Crozet, a parish in decline, and brought about a spiritual revival. The reading of letters of missionaries in far-away lands inflamed his heart with zeal, and he resolved to devote his life to the Apostolate. He joined the Society of Mary (Marist Fathers) in 1831. He taught at the Belley seminary for five years and led a band of missionaries to the New Hebrides in 1836, an area where cannibalism had only recently been outlawed. He learned the local language and taught in the local school. He converted many, in part because of his ministry to the sick. Niuliki was a native king who was jealous of his influence. Thus, on April 28, 1841, three years after his arrival, Peter was seized and clubbed to death by those he had come to serve. Within five months, the entire island was converted to Christianity. Peter Chanel became the first martyr in Oceania.
Peter Chanel was born in France and was ordained in 1827 at age 24. He was assigned to Crozet, a parish in decline, and brought about a spiritual revival. The reading of letters of missionaries in far-away lands inflamed his heart with zeal, and he resolved to devote his life to the Apostolate. He joined the Society of Mary (Marist Fathers) in 1831. He taught at the Belley seminary for five years and led a band of missionaries to the New Hebrides in 1836, an area where cannibalism had only recently been outlawed. He learned the local language and taught in the local school. He converted many, in part because of his ministry to the sick. Niuliki was a native king who was jealous of his influence. Thus, on April 28, 1841, three years after his arrival, Peter was seized and clubbed to death by those he had come to serve. Within five months, the entire island was converted to Christianity. Peter Chanel became the first martyr in Oceania.
Optional Memorial of Saint Louis Grignion de Montfort, Priest
Under the Blessed Virgin Mary's inspiration, to whom he was devoted, Louis Grignion de Montfort founded the Congregation of the Daughters of Divine Wisdom, a religious institute of women devoted to the care of the destitute. During this work, he began his apostolate of preaching the Rosary and authentic Marian devotion. He preached so effectively against the errors of Jansenism that he was expelled from several dioceses in France. In Rome, Pope Clement XI conferred on him the title and authority of Missionary Apostolic, which enabled him to continue his work. Louis was one of the greatest apostles of the Rosary in his day, and using his inspiring book, The Secret of the Rosary, he is still so today. The most common manner of reciting the Rosary is the method that originated with Saint Louis's preaching. In 1715, he founded a missionary band known as the Company of Mary.
NOTE: Jansenism refers to the austere doctrines of Cornelius Jansen who denied free will, and held that human beings, depraved in nature, were unable to resist God's grace. Jansenist teaching was akin to Calvin's doctrine of predestination. Jansenism was condemned by Pope Innocent X in 1653, and by Clement XI in 1713. The strict and morally rigorous movement lingered on and continued to have an influence on moral and spiritual writing.
Under the Blessed Virgin Mary's inspiration, to whom he was devoted, Louis Grignion de Montfort founded the Congregation of the Daughters of Divine Wisdom, a religious institute of women devoted to the care of the destitute. During this work, he began his apostolate of preaching the Rosary and authentic Marian devotion. He preached so effectively against the errors of Jansenism that he was expelled from several dioceses in France. In Rome, Pope Clement XI conferred on him the title and authority of Missionary Apostolic, which enabled him to continue his work. Louis was one of the greatest apostles of the Rosary in his day, and using his inspiring book, The Secret of the Rosary, he is still so today. The most common manner of reciting the Rosary is the method that originated with Saint Louis's preaching. In 1715, he founded a missionary band known as the Company of Mary.
NOTE: Jansenism refers to the austere doctrines of Cornelius Jansen who denied free will, and held that human beings, depraved in nature, were unable to resist God's grace. Jansenist teaching was akin to Calvin's doctrine of predestination. Jansenism was condemned by Pope Innocent X in 1653, and by Clement XI in 1713. The strict and morally rigorous movement lingered on and continued to have an influence on moral and spiritual writing.
TUESDAY, APRIL 29, JOHN 3:7b-15
Memorial of Saint Catherine of Siena, Virgin and Doctor of the Church
(Acts 4:32-37; Psalm 93)
KEY VERSE: "Do not be amazed that I told you, `You must be born from above'" (John 3:7b).
TO KNOW: Nicodemus was a respected teacher in the Jewish community (v.10), but without the grace of the Spirit given in Baptism, he failed to fathom the mystery of spiritual rebirth. Jesus compared the dynamics of the Spirit with the mysterious movement of the wind. In both Hebrew and Greek, there is one word for both "wind" and "spirit" (Hebrew, ruah, Greek, pneuma). One can observe the effects of the wind without knowing its origin or destination. Likewise, although one can see the result of grace within an individual, no one is fully able to comprehend the action of the Spirit. Jesus was the authentic witness of these "heavenly things," which would be fully known when he was exalted on the cross (Jn 19:30).
TO LOVE: How can I help someone to be open to the Spirit in his or her life?
TO SERVE: Risen Lord, breathe your life-giving Spirit into me.
Memorial of Saint Catherine of Siena, Virgin and Doctor of the Church
(Acts 4:32-37; Psalm 93)
KEY VERSE: "Do not be amazed that I told you, `You must be born from above'" (John 3:7b).
TO KNOW: Nicodemus was a respected teacher in the Jewish community (v.10), but without the grace of the Spirit given in Baptism, he failed to fathom the mystery of spiritual rebirth. Jesus compared the dynamics of the Spirit with the mysterious movement of the wind. In both Hebrew and Greek, there is one word for both "wind" and "spirit" (Hebrew, ruah, Greek, pneuma). One can observe the effects of the wind without knowing its origin or destination. Likewise, although one can see the result of grace within an individual, no one is fully able to comprehend the action of the Spirit. Jesus was the authentic witness of these "heavenly things," which would be fully known when he was exalted on the cross (Jn 19:30).
TO LOVE: How can I help someone to be open to the Spirit in his or her life?
TO SERVE: Risen Lord, breathe your life-giving Spirit into me.
Memorial of Saint Catherine of Siena, Virgin and Doctor of the Church
At the age of six, Catherine of Siena had a vision in which Jesus appeared and blessed her. Although her parents wanted her to marry, she resisted and became a Dominican tertiary, which allowed her to associate with the religious society while living at home. She spent the next three years in seclusion, prayer, and austerity. Gradually, a group of followers gathered around her, and an active public apostolate grew out of her contemplative life. Catherine spent the last two years of her short life in Rome, pleading on behalf of Pope Urban VI and the unity of the Church. She was canonized in 1461, and in 1939, she and Francis of Assisi were declared co-patrons of Italy. Pope Paul VI named her and Teresa of Avila doctors of the Church in 1970. Catherine ranks high among the mystics and spiritual writers of the Church. She said that each one of us is also a gift to the world, with a unique mission:
“Be who you are, and you will set the world on fire.”
At the age of six, Catherine of Siena had a vision in which Jesus appeared and blessed her. Although her parents wanted her to marry, she resisted and became a Dominican tertiary, which allowed her to associate with the religious society while living at home. She spent the next three years in seclusion, prayer, and austerity. Gradually, a group of followers gathered around her, and an active public apostolate grew out of her contemplative life. Catherine spent the last two years of her short life in Rome, pleading on behalf of Pope Urban VI and the unity of the Church. She was canonized in 1461, and in 1939, she and Francis of Assisi were declared co-patrons of Italy. Pope Paul VI named her and Teresa of Avila doctors of the Church in 1970. Catherine ranks high among the mystics and spiritual writers of the Church. She said that each one of us is also a gift to the world, with a unique mission:
“Be who you are, and you will set the world on fire.”
WEDNESDAY, APRIL 30, JOHN 3:16-21
Easter Weekday
(Acts 5:17-26; Psalm 34)
KEY VERSE: "For God so loved the world that he gave his only Son, so that everyone who believes in him may not perish but may have eternal life" (John 3:16).
TO KNOW: John 3:16 is often called the essence of the gospel. This text tells us that the Father sent the Son out of love for the world. Although there was judgment, there was mercy. God did not come to condemn the world but to save it (v.17). When the Pharisee Nicodemus came to Jesus at night, Jesus told him that God's love for the world was so great, that God sent the Son to save the world from sin and death. Everyone has the opportunity to respond to Jesus by acknowledging him as their Savior. Those who refuse to come into the light do so out of fear that their evil deeds might be exposed. God's verdict has already been pronounced upon those who "prefer darkness to light" (v.19). They bring condemnation upon themselves for their refusal to believe. But those who believe in God's Son should have no fear of the light. They have the indwelling Spirit to guide them so that their deeds will be done according to God's truth.
TO LOVE: Do I help to enlighten those who are in the darkness of unbelief?
TO SERVE: Risen Lord, banish any darkness from my soul.
Easter Weekday
(Acts 5:17-26; Psalm 34)
KEY VERSE: "For God so loved the world that he gave his only Son, so that everyone who believes in him may not perish but may have eternal life" (John 3:16).
TO KNOW: John 3:16 is often called the essence of the gospel. This text tells us that the Father sent the Son out of love for the world. Although there was judgment, there was mercy. God did not come to condemn the world but to save it (v.17). When the Pharisee Nicodemus came to Jesus at night, Jesus told him that God's love for the world was so great, that God sent the Son to save the world from sin and death. Everyone has the opportunity to respond to Jesus by acknowledging him as their Savior. Those who refuse to come into the light do so out of fear that their evil deeds might be exposed. God's verdict has already been pronounced upon those who "prefer darkness to light" (v.19). They bring condemnation upon themselves for their refusal to believe. But those who believe in God's Son should have no fear of the light. They have the indwelling Spirit to guide them so that their deeds will be done according to God's truth.
TO LOVE: Do I help to enlighten those who are in the darkness of unbelief?
TO SERVE: Risen Lord, banish any darkness from my soul.
Optional Memorial of Saint Pius V, Pope
Upon his ascension to the papacy, Pius V, a Dominican, was one of the foremost leaders of the Council of Trent (held between 1545 and 1563 in Trent, northern Italy). Prompted by the Protestant Reformation, it has been described as the embodiment of the Counter-Reformation. Pope Pius V was the one responsible for the implementation of the results of the Council. Foundations were established to spread the faith and preserve the doctrine of the Church. New seminaries were opened, a new breviary, a new missal, and a new catechism were published. Pius spent much time personally working with the needy. He built hospitals and used the papal treasury to care for the poor. Pope Clement XI canonized him on May 22, 1712.
Upon his ascension to the papacy, Pius V, a Dominican, was one of the foremost leaders of the Council of Trent (held between 1545 and 1563 in Trent, northern Italy). Prompted by the Protestant Reformation, it has been described as the embodiment of the Counter-Reformation. Pope Pius V was the one responsible for the implementation of the results of the Council. Foundations were established to spread the faith and preserve the doctrine of the Church. New seminaries were opened, a new breviary, a new missal, and a new catechism were published. Pius spent much time personally working with the needy. He built hospitals and used the papal treasury to care for the poor. Pope Clement XI canonized him on May 22, 1712.
MAY IS MARY'S MONTH
The month of May, with its profusion of blooms, was adopted by the Church in the eighteenth century to celebrate the flowering of Mary's spirituality. In Isaiah's prophecy of the Virgin birth of the Messiah, the figure of the Blossoming Rod, or Root of Jesse, the flower symbolism of Mary was extended by the Church Fathers, and, in the liturgy, by applying to her the flower figures of the Biblical books of Canticles, Wisdom, Proverbs and Sirach. In the medieval period, the rose was adopted as the flower symbol of the Virgin Birth, as expressed in Dante's phrase, 'The Rose wherein the Divine Word was made flesh,' and depicted in the rose windows of the great gothic cathedrals, from which came the Christmas carol, 'Lo, How a Rose 'ere Blooming.' Also, with the spread of the Franciscan love of nature, the rose of the fields, waysides, and gardens, came to be seen as symbols of Mary.
The month of May, with its profusion of blooms, was adopted by the Church in the eighteenth century to celebrate the flowering of Mary's spirituality. In Isaiah's prophecy of the Virgin birth of the Messiah, the figure of the Blossoming Rod, or Root of Jesse, the flower symbolism of Mary was extended by the Church Fathers, and, in the liturgy, by applying to her the flower figures of the Biblical books of Canticles, Wisdom, Proverbs and Sirach. In the medieval period, the rose was adopted as the flower symbol of the Virgin Birth, as expressed in Dante's phrase, 'The Rose wherein the Divine Word was made flesh,' and depicted in the rose windows of the great gothic cathedrals, from which came the Christmas carol, 'Lo, How a Rose 'ere Blooming.' Also, with the spread of the Franciscan love of nature, the rose of the fields, waysides, and gardens, came to be seen as symbols of Mary.
SONG OF THE DOVE
A novel of Mary of Nazareth by Kay Murdy
Kay Murdy writes the story of a Jewish woman of the first century who lived in Nazareth, a tiny village nestled in the hills of Israel. She was betrothed to a young man, and when the Divine Messenger announced that would have a son, she struggled to understand the strange things happening in a time with more than its share of turmoil, both political and religious. What happened tested both her faith and courage. ACTA Publications. Order, www.actapublications.com or contact Kay Murdy murdyk@netscape.net
A novel of Mary of Nazareth by Kay Murdy
Kay Murdy writes the story of a Jewish woman of the first century who lived in Nazareth, a tiny village nestled in the hills of Israel. She was betrothed to a young man, and when the Divine Messenger announced that would have a son, she struggled to understand the strange things happening in a time with more than its share of turmoil, both political and religious. What happened tested both her faith and courage. ACTA Publications. Order, www.actapublications.com or contact Kay Murdy murdyk@netscape.net
THURSDAY, MAY 1, JOHN 3:31-36
Easter Weekday
(Acts 5:27-33; Psalm 34)
KEY VERSE: "Whoever has accepted his testimony has certified this, that God is true" (John 3:33).
TO KNOW: The Gospel of John continually contrasts the radical difference between salvation in Christ and the workings of the Evil One. Jesus brought light into the world, while the Evil One brought darkness. Jesus’ followers believed in him, while the unbelievers refused to listen to his words. Jesus was the one from the heavenly world "above" whom God sent to the world "below" (this description is theological, not geographical). The Son shares the fullness of the Spirit with the Father, who withheld nothing from him. The Son in turn, imparts the Spirit to his followers. Throughout salvation history, God gave partial revelation to God's people. God was fully revealed through the Son, who "spoke the words of God" (v.34). Whoever accepts this revelation receives eternal life; those who reject this gift bring God's judgment upon themselves.
TO LOVE: Do I give thanks for the divine gift of God's Son?
TO SERVE: Risen Lord, help me to listen to your words so that I might know how to act in truth.
Easter Weekday
(Acts 5:27-33; Psalm 34)
KEY VERSE: "Whoever has accepted his testimony has certified this, that God is true" (John 3:33).
TO KNOW: The Gospel of John continually contrasts the radical difference between salvation in Christ and the workings of the Evil One. Jesus brought light into the world, while the Evil One brought darkness. Jesus’ followers believed in him, while the unbelievers refused to listen to his words. Jesus was the one from the heavenly world "above" whom God sent to the world "below" (this description is theological, not geographical). The Son shares the fullness of the Spirit with the Father, who withheld nothing from him. The Son in turn, imparts the Spirit to his followers. Throughout salvation history, God gave partial revelation to God's people. God was fully revealed through the Son, who "spoke the words of God" (v.34). Whoever accepts this revelation receives eternal life; those who reject this gift bring God's judgment upon themselves.
TO LOVE: Do I give thanks for the divine gift of God's Son?
TO SERVE: Risen Lord, help me to listen to your words so that I might know how to act in truth.
Optional Memorial of Saint Joseph the Worker
Despite his humble background, Joseph came from a royal lineage, a descendant of David, the greatest king of Israel. Joseph was chosen by God as the trustworthy guardian of his divine Son. Joseph was wholeheartedly obedient to God -- in marrying Mary, in naming Jesus, in shepherding the family to Egypt, in bringing them to Nazareth, and in the undetermined number of years of quiet faith and courage. Joseph carried out this vocation with complete fidelity until God called him, saying: 'Good and faithful servant, enter into the joy of your Lord." In 1955, Pius XII established the feast day of St. Joseph the Worker on May 1st as a counter-celebration to the communists’ held their “May Day” celebration: an anti-religious, secular commemoration of labor. By instituting this feast, the Pope reclaimed the Christian dimensions of labor and the Church’s insistence that workers be treated fairly. In subsequent years, St. John Paul II reaffirmed Pius’s decision in his encyclical, “Laborem Exercens,” which was a reflection on the true meaning and importance of human work.
Despite his humble background, Joseph came from a royal lineage, a descendant of David, the greatest king of Israel. Joseph was chosen by God as the trustworthy guardian of his divine Son. Joseph was wholeheartedly obedient to God -- in marrying Mary, in naming Jesus, in shepherding the family to Egypt, in bringing them to Nazareth, and in the undetermined number of years of quiet faith and courage. Joseph carried out this vocation with complete fidelity until God called him, saying: 'Good and faithful servant, enter into the joy of your Lord." In 1955, Pius XII established the feast day of St. Joseph the Worker on May 1st as a counter-celebration to the communists’ held their “May Day” celebration: an anti-religious, secular commemoration of labor. By instituting this feast, the Pope reclaimed the Christian dimensions of labor and the Church’s insistence that workers be treated fairly. In subsequent years, St. John Paul II reaffirmed Pius’s decision in his encyclical, “Laborem Exercens,” which was a reflection on the true meaning and importance of human work.
FRIDAY, MAY 2, JOHN 6:1-15
Memorial of Saint Athanasius, Bishop and Doctor of the Church
(Acts 5:34-42; Psalm 27)
KEY VERSE: "Then Jesus took the loaves, gave thanks, and distributed them to those who were reclining" (John 6:11).
TO KNOW: The feeding of the five thousand is the only miracle story mentioned in all four Gospels, which emphasizes its importance as foreshadowing the Eucharist. In John's gospel, the multiplication of loaves took place close to the Jewish feast of Passover, a memorial of Israel's deliverance from slavery in Egypt (Ex 12:14). In John's version of the multiplication of loaves, Jesus spoke about eating his flesh and drinking his blood (v.53). This is exactly what occurred at the Last Supper. The actions Jesus performed in the wilderness when he "took," "blessed," "broke," and "distributed" the bread, are the same actions the Priest does in the Eucharistic celebration today. The people of Jesus' day recognized the Messianic significance of this banquet and acclaimed that he was the "one who had come into the world" to bring salvation (v.15).
TO LOVE: Do I appreciate the mystery of Christ's sacrificial love in the Eucharist?
TO SERVE: Risen Lord, help me to grow in love and understanding of you in the Eucharist.
Memorial of Saint Athanasius, Bishop and Doctor of the Church
(Acts 5:34-42; Psalm 27)
KEY VERSE: "Then Jesus took the loaves, gave thanks, and distributed them to those who were reclining" (John 6:11).
TO KNOW: The feeding of the five thousand is the only miracle story mentioned in all four Gospels, which emphasizes its importance as foreshadowing the Eucharist. In John's gospel, the multiplication of loaves took place close to the Jewish feast of Passover, a memorial of Israel's deliverance from slavery in Egypt (Ex 12:14). In John's version of the multiplication of loaves, Jesus spoke about eating his flesh and drinking his blood (v.53). This is exactly what occurred at the Last Supper. The actions Jesus performed in the wilderness when he "took," "blessed," "broke," and "distributed" the bread, are the same actions the Priest does in the Eucharistic celebration today. The people of Jesus' day recognized the Messianic significance of this banquet and acclaimed that he was the "one who had come into the world" to bring salvation (v.15).
TO LOVE: Do I appreciate the mystery of Christ's sacrificial love in the Eucharist?
TO SERVE: Risen Lord, help me to grow in love and understanding of you in the Eucharist.
Memorial of Saint Athanasius, Bishop and Doctor of the Church
Athanasius was born in Alexandria, Egypt, towards the end of the third century, and from his youth was pious and deeply versed in the sacred writings. While still a deacon, he was chosen by Alexander, his bishop, to go with him to the Council of Nicaea, A.D. 325. There Athanasius defended the Church against the Arian heresy, which denied the Divinity of Christ. When Alexander was dying, he recommended Athanasius to be his successor as Patriarch of Alexandria, and he served in that office for forty-six years. When the dispute over Arianism spilled over from theology to politics, Athanasius was exiled five times, and spent more than a third of his episcopate in exile. He is a biographer of Saint Anthony the Abbot, a Confessor of the faith and Doctor of the Church.
NOTE: Arianism was a heresy denying the divinity of Christ, originating with the Alexandrian Priest Arius (250– 336). Arianism maintained that the Son of God was created by the Father and was therefore neither coeternal with the Father, nor consubstantial. Athanasius formulated the doctrine of homoousianism which said that Christ was "consubstantial with the Father,” as in the Nicene Creed.
Athanasius was born in Alexandria, Egypt, towards the end of the third century, and from his youth was pious and deeply versed in the sacred writings. While still a deacon, he was chosen by Alexander, his bishop, to go with him to the Council of Nicaea, A.D. 325. There Athanasius defended the Church against the Arian heresy, which denied the Divinity of Christ. When Alexander was dying, he recommended Athanasius to be his successor as Patriarch of Alexandria, and he served in that office for forty-six years. When the dispute over Arianism spilled over from theology to politics, Athanasius was exiled five times, and spent more than a third of his episcopate in exile. He is a biographer of Saint Anthony the Abbot, a Confessor of the faith and Doctor of the Church.
NOTE: Arianism was a heresy denying the divinity of Christ, originating with the Alexandrian Priest Arius (250– 336). Arianism maintained that the Son of God was created by the Father and was therefore neither coeternal with the Father, nor consubstantial. Athanasius formulated the doctrine of homoousianism which said that Christ was "consubstantial with the Father,” as in the Nicene Creed.
FEAST OF SAINTS PHILIP AND JAMES, APOSTLES
SATURDAY, MAY 3, JOHN 14:6-14
(1 Corinthians 15:1-8; Psalm 19)
KEY VERSE: "The one who believes in me will also do the works that I do" (John 14:12).
TO KNOW: Jesus told his disciples that he was the "way" to God's "truth and life" (v.6). When Philip asked for some manifestation of the Father, Jesus told him that if he understood who he was, he would "see" the Father. Jesus was the flesh and blood revelation of God. His words and works were not his alone; they came from his unity with the Father. If Jesus' disciples could not believe what he told them, then at least they should believe in the deeds that he did. He promised that those who had faith in him would be empowered by the Spirit to do even greater works than he had done. When Jesus returned to the Father, he would continually intercede on their behalf (Ro 8:34; Hb 4:14 - 5:10).
TO LOVE: Do I hand on the faith that I have received, just as the apostles did in their time?
TO SERVE: St. Philip and St. James, pray that the Church will have the grace to accomplish Christ's works on earth as you did.
SATURDAY, MAY 3, JOHN 14:6-14
(1 Corinthians 15:1-8; Psalm 19)
KEY VERSE: "The one who believes in me will also do the works that I do" (John 14:12).
TO KNOW: Jesus told his disciples that he was the "way" to God's "truth and life" (v.6). When Philip asked for some manifestation of the Father, Jesus told him that if he understood who he was, he would "see" the Father. Jesus was the flesh and blood revelation of God. His words and works were not his alone; they came from his unity with the Father. If Jesus' disciples could not believe what he told them, then at least they should believe in the deeds that he did. He promised that those who had faith in him would be empowered by the Spirit to do even greater works than he had done. When Jesus returned to the Father, he would continually intercede on their behalf (Ro 8:34; Hb 4:14 - 5:10).
TO LOVE: Do I hand on the faith that I have received, just as the apostles did in their time?
TO SERVE: St. Philip and St. James, pray that the Church will have the grace to accomplish Christ's works on earth as you did.
FEAST OF SAINTS PHILIP AND SAINT JAMES, APOSTLES
Philip was born in Bethsaida, Galilee, and may have been a disciple of Saint John the Baptist. Philip was called by Jesus (Jn 1:43-48) on the day after Peter and Andrew were called. Philip began his evangelizing efforts by bringing Nathaniel (Bartholomew) to Jesus. When Nathaniel asked, "Can anything good come from Nazareth?" Philip replied: "Come and see" (1:43). Philip was present at the miracle of the loaves and fishes (6:1-15), and was the Apostle approached by the Hellenistic Jews from Bethsaida to introduce them to Jesus (12:21ff). Just before the Passion, Jesus answered Philip's query to show them the Father (14:8ff), but no further mention of Philip is made in the New Testament beyond his listing among the apostles awaiting the Holy Spirit in the Upper Room (Acts 1:13). According to tradition, Philip preached in Greece and was crucified at Hierapolis in Phrygia under Emperor Domitian, c. 80 AD.
NOTE: The names "James the Less" or "James the Younger" are usually applied to James the son of Alphaeus, Bishop of Jerusalem (Mk 15:40). He was favored by the appearance of the Risen Christ (I Cor 15:7).. He was visited by Saint Paul (Gal 1:19), and spoke at the meeting of the Apostles in Jerusalem (Acts 15:13). A tradition said that when James was 96 years old and had governed the Church for 30 years, he was challenged by his enemies to deny the Divinity of Christ. When he refused, he was cast down from the terrace of the temple and clubbed to death. The Breviary contains a very moving description of his death. "As he lay there half dead, with legs broken by the fall, he lifted his hands toward heaven and prayed to God for the salvation of his enemies, saying: ‘Lord, forgive them for they know not what they do!’ While the Apostle was still praying, a fuller struck his head a mortal blow." His relics now rest next to those of Saint Philip in the church of the Holy Apostles in Rome, and their names are mentioned in the first list in the Canon of the Mass.
Philip was born in Bethsaida, Galilee, and may have been a disciple of Saint John the Baptist. Philip was called by Jesus (Jn 1:43-48) on the day after Peter and Andrew were called. Philip began his evangelizing efforts by bringing Nathaniel (Bartholomew) to Jesus. When Nathaniel asked, "Can anything good come from Nazareth?" Philip replied: "Come and see" (1:43). Philip was present at the miracle of the loaves and fishes (6:1-15), and was the Apostle approached by the Hellenistic Jews from Bethsaida to introduce them to Jesus (12:21ff). Just before the Passion, Jesus answered Philip's query to show them the Father (14:8ff), but no further mention of Philip is made in the New Testament beyond his listing among the apostles awaiting the Holy Spirit in the Upper Room (Acts 1:13). According to tradition, Philip preached in Greece and was crucified at Hierapolis in Phrygia under Emperor Domitian, c. 80 AD.
NOTE: The names "James the Less" or "James the Younger" are usually applied to James the son of Alphaeus, Bishop of Jerusalem (Mk 15:40). He was favored by the appearance of the Risen Christ (I Cor 15:7).. He was visited by Saint Paul (Gal 1:19), and spoke at the meeting of the Apostles in Jerusalem (Acts 15:13). A tradition said that when James was 96 years old and had governed the Church for 30 years, he was challenged by his enemies to deny the Divinity of Christ. When he refused, he was cast down from the terrace of the temple and clubbed to death. The Breviary contains a very moving description of his death. "As he lay there half dead, with legs broken by the fall, he lifted his hands toward heaven and prayed to God for the salvation of his enemies, saying: ‘Lord, forgive them for they know not what they do!’ While the Apostle was still praying, a fuller struck his head a mortal blow." His relics now rest next to those of Saint Philip in the church of the Holy Apostles in Rome, and their names are mentioned in the first list in the Canon of the Mass.
THIRD SUNDAY OF EASTER
SUNDAY, MAY 4, JOHN 21:1-19 or JOHN 21:1-14
(Acts 5:27-32, 40b-41; Psalm 30; Revelation 5:11-14)
KEY VERSE: "Jesus said to him, `Feed my sheep" (John 21:17).
TO KNOW: After the resurrection, Jesus revealed himself once again on the Sea of Galilee ("Tiberius," Jn.6:1). In the half-light of the morning, he called to his followers from the shore, telling them to cast their nets to the right side of the boat. Although they had fished all night and caught nothing, their obedience to Jesus brought forth a great number of fish. John was the first to understand the meaning of this sign and cried out, "It is the Lord!" Peter was the first to act, swimming and dragging the heavily laden net to shore. Although the net held a great catch of fish it was not torn. The unbroken net was a symbol of the future mission of the Church to bring souls to Christ. Afterward, Peter was given a three-fold opportunity to publicly profess his devotion in reparation for his three denials. For each declaration of faith, the Risen Lord commanded Peter to feed the flock, the Christian community. Peter, the Church's future shepherd, would lay down his life for the sake of the flock as Jesus did.
TO LOVE: Am I willing to feed the flock the Lord has given me?
TO SERVE: Risen Lord, give me the grace to declare my faith in you before others.
SUNDAY, MAY 4, JOHN 21:1-19 or JOHN 21:1-14
(Acts 5:27-32, 40b-41; Psalm 30; Revelation 5:11-14)
KEY VERSE: "Jesus said to him, `Feed my sheep" (John 21:17).
TO KNOW: After the resurrection, Jesus revealed himself once again on the Sea of Galilee ("Tiberius," Jn.6:1). In the half-light of the morning, he called to his followers from the shore, telling them to cast their nets to the right side of the boat. Although they had fished all night and caught nothing, their obedience to Jesus brought forth a great number of fish. John was the first to understand the meaning of this sign and cried out, "It is the Lord!" Peter was the first to act, swimming and dragging the heavily laden net to shore. Although the net held a great catch of fish it was not torn. The unbroken net was a symbol of the future mission of the Church to bring souls to Christ. Afterward, Peter was given a three-fold opportunity to publicly profess his devotion in reparation for his three denials. For each declaration of faith, the Risen Lord commanded Peter to feed the flock, the Christian community. Peter, the Church's future shepherd, would lay down his life for the sake of the flock as Jesus did.
TO LOVE: Am I willing to feed the flock the Lord has given me?
TO SERVE: Risen Lord, give me the grace to declare my faith in you before others.
MONDAY, MAY 5, JOHN 6:22-29
Easter Weekday
(Acts 6:8-15; Psalm 119)
KEY VERSE: "Do not work for food that perishes but for the food that endures for eternal life" (John 6:27).
TO KNOW: After the miraculous multiplication of loaves, the crowd noticed that Jesus' disciples had departed by boat across the Sea of Galilee. Assuming that Jesus was nearby, they waited impatiently for his return. Failing to find him, they went in search of him across the lake to Capernaum. When they found him, Jesus said that they were looking for him for the wrong reasons. They were like Israel in the desert after they escaped from Egypt. Alone, afraid, and without food, they clamored for the manna that Moses gave them in the wilderness. But they missed the true meaning of the sign, food that "endures for eternal life" (Jn 6:27). Jesus told the crowd that food appeased hunger momentarily; they should look to God to satisfy their spiritual needs. No one could work for this gift, deserve it, or earn it. The only way to receive it was to believe in Jesus, the one God sent to them.
TO LOVE: What can I do to feed someone’s spiritual hunger?
TO SERVE: Risen Lord, you are the life-giving nourishment that I desire.
Easter Weekday
(Acts 6:8-15; Psalm 119)
KEY VERSE: "Do not work for food that perishes but for the food that endures for eternal life" (John 6:27).
TO KNOW: After the miraculous multiplication of loaves, the crowd noticed that Jesus' disciples had departed by boat across the Sea of Galilee. Assuming that Jesus was nearby, they waited impatiently for his return. Failing to find him, they went in search of him across the lake to Capernaum. When they found him, Jesus said that they were looking for him for the wrong reasons. They were like Israel in the desert after they escaped from Egypt. Alone, afraid, and without food, they clamored for the manna that Moses gave them in the wilderness. But they missed the true meaning of the sign, food that "endures for eternal life" (Jn 6:27). Jesus told the crowd that food appeased hunger momentarily; they should look to God to satisfy their spiritual needs. No one could work for this gift, deserve it, or earn it. The only way to receive it was to believe in Jesus, the one God sent to them.
TO LOVE: What can I do to feed someone’s spiritual hunger?
TO SERVE: Risen Lord, you are the life-giving nourishment that I desire.
TUESDAY, MAY 6, JOHN 6:30-35
Easter Weekday
(Acts 7:51 ̶ 8:1a; Psalm 31)
KEY VERSE: "I am the bread of life; whoever comes to me will never hunger, and whoever believes in me will never thirst" (John 6:35).
TO KNOW: Even though the people had witnessed Jesus’ multiplication of the loaves in the wilderness, they demanded another "sign" such as Moses gave their ancestors, the "manna" in the desert (Ex 16:15). By seeking signs, they were looking for perishable food and were missing the true nourishment that God had given them. The people were focusing on their physical hunger. They must look to Jesus, the authentic sign of God's providential care. It was God, not Moses, who provided the "bread from heaven" (v.32). Jesus is the "Bread of Life" (v.35) who gives eternal salvation to all who believe in him. John tells us that he said these things "while teaching in the synagogue in Capernaum" (Jn 6:59).
TO LOVE: Is there someone whom I can help to appreciate Jesus' presence in the Eucharist?
TO SERVE: Risen Lord, you are the bread that feeds my soul for life everlasting.
Easter Weekday
(Acts 7:51 ̶ 8:1a; Psalm 31)
KEY VERSE: "I am the bread of life; whoever comes to me will never hunger, and whoever believes in me will never thirst" (John 6:35).
TO KNOW: Even though the people had witnessed Jesus’ multiplication of the loaves in the wilderness, they demanded another "sign" such as Moses gave their ancestors, the "manna" in the desert (Ex 16:15). By seeking signs, they were looking for perishable food and were missing the true nourishment that God had given them. The people were focusing on their physical hunger. They must look to Jesus, the authentic sign of God's providential care. It was God, not Moses, who provided the "bread from heaven" (v.32). Jesus is the "Bread of Life" (v.35) who gives eternal salvation to all who believe in him. John tells us that he said these things "while teaching in the synagogue in Capernaum" (Jn 6:59).
TO LOVE: Is there someone whom I can help to appreciate Jesus' presence in the Eucharist?
TO SERVE: Risen Lord, you are the bread that feeds my soul for life everlasting.
TEACHERS’ DAY
National Teacher Day is always celebrated on the first Tuesday of the first full week of May. Eleanor Roosevelt persuaded the 81st Congress to proclaim a National Teacher Day in 1953. Teachers are true heroes in our communities, who, through their dedication to children, work millions of small miracles every day. This day honors those hard-working, patient, and understanding people to whom we entrust our children. So let's give them their due. And, if you happen to be a teacher reading this, we offer our thanks, for the future of our world is in your hands.
National Teacher Day is always celebrated on the first Tuesday of the first full week of May. Eleanor Roosevelt persuaded the 81st Congress to proclaim a National Teacher Day in 1953. Teachers are true heroes in our communities, who, through their dedication to children, work millions of small miracles every day. This day honors those hard-working, patient, and understanding people to whom we entrust our children. So let's give them their due. And, if you happen to be a teacher reading this, we offer our thanks, for the future of our world is in your hands.
WEDNESDAY, MAY 7, JOHN 6:35-40
Easter Weekday
(Acts 8:1b-8; Psalm 66)
KEY VERSE: "For this is the will of my Father, that everyone who sees the Son and believes in him may have eternal life" (John 6:40).
TO KNOW: Jesus revealed God's word to the people, yet some refused to believe in him. They failed to comprehend the meaning of the miraculous sign of the bread Jesus gave them in the wilderness (v.30-31). They did not understand that Jesus was the fullness of God's revelation and the source of eternal salvation. Jesus insists that he not only gives the bread from heaven, but he is the life-giving "bread" sent by God who would satisfy the people's hunger and thirst forever. Jesus did not reject anyone who came to him in faith. He was careful not to lose a single fragment of the miraculous loaves. So too, none of the souls God entrusted to him would perish. They would share eternal life with him.
TO LOVE: Do I take time to be nourished by God's word?
TO SERVE: Risen Lord, feed me with your sacred word so that I can live eternally with you.
Easter Weekday
(Acts 8:1b-8; Psalm 66)
KEY VERSE: "For this is the will of my Father, that everyone who sees the Son and believes in him may have eternal life" (John 6:40).
TO KNOW: Jesus revealed God's word to the people, yet some refused to believe in him. They failed to comprehend the meaning of the miraculous sign of the bread Jesus gave them in the wilderness (v.30-31). They did not understand that Jesus was the fullness of God's revelation and the source of eternal salvation. Jesus insists that he not only gives the bread from heaven, but he is the life-giving "bread" sent by God who would satisfy the people's hunger and thirst forever. Jesus did not reject anyone who came to him in faith. He was careful not to lose a single fragment of the miraculous loaves. So too, none of the souls God entrusted to him would perish. They would share eternal life with him.
TO LOVE: Do I take time to be nourished by God's word?
TO SERVE: Risen Lord, feed me with your sacred word so that I can live eternally with you.
THURSDAY, MAY 8, JOHN 6:44-51
Easter Weekday
(Acts 8:26-40; Psalm 66)
KEY VERSE: "This is the bread that comes down from heaven so that one may eat it and not die" (John 6:50).
TO KNOW: On the Exodus journey through the wilderness, the people grumbled against God and Moses for having brought them into the desert only to die of starvation. Nevertheless, Moses fed them with the "manna" that God provided (Ex 16:2, 15). Jesus also fed the hungry people in the wilderness with miraculous loaves, and just like the people of the Exodus, they murmured against him when he told them that he was the "bread that came down from heaven" (v.41). The bread in the wilderness was only a foretaste of the true bread, Jesus, who came from God. The Israelites ate the manna in the desert, but they all died. Jesus is the life-giving bread who eternally sustains those who believe in him. Whoever listens to God's truth is drawn to Jesus who is Divine Wisdom incarnate.
TO LOVE: Do I help those who are physically and spiritually hungry?
TO SERVE: Risen Lord, feed me with your life-giving Sacrament.
Easter Weekday
(Acts 8:26-40; Psalm 66)
KEY VERSE: "This is the bread that comes down from heaven so that one may eat it and not die" (John 6:50).
TO KNOW: On the Exodus journey through the wilderness, the people grumbled against God and Moses for having brought them into the desert only to die of starvation. Nevertheless, Moses fed them with the "manna" that God provided (Ex 16:2, 15). Jesus also fed the hungry people in the wilderness with miraculous loaves, and just like the people of the Exodus, they murmured against him when he told them that he was the "bread that came down from heaven" (v.41). The bread in the wilderness was only a foretaste of the true bread, Jesus, who came from God. The Israelites ate the manna in the desert, but they all died. Jesus is the life-giving bread who eternally sustains those who believe in him. Whoever listens to God's truth is drawn to Jesus who is Divine Wisdom incarnate.
TO LOVE: Do I help those who are physically and spiritually hungry?
TO SERVE: Risen Lord, feed me with your life-giving Sacrament.
FRIDAY, MAY 9; JOHN 6:52-59
Easter Weekday
(Acts 9:1-20; Psalm 117)
KEY VERSE: "Whoever eats my flesh and drinks my blood has eternal life, and I will raise him on the last day" (John 6:54).
TO KNOW: In the sixth chapter of John's Gospel, there are two important elements in Jesus' pronouncement that he was the "bread of life" (v.35). He is both word and sacrament. In John 6:35-50, the "bread of life" is a figure of God's revelation in Jesus: the "word made flesh" (1:14). Beginning in verse 51, the sacramental theme comes to the fore. Jesus plainly says that his flesh is "true food" and his blood is "true drink" (v.55). The Greek word that John used was not merely symbolic (phago means to "eat" or "devour"). He speaks of the reality of Jesus' flesh and blood in his Eucharistic presence. Through word and sacrament, Jesus continues to feed us spiritually, transforming and uniting us to him so that we can worthily enter God's eternal reign. John tells us that he said these things “while teaching in a synagogue in Capernaum” (Jn 6:59).
TO LOVE: Am I aware of Christ's true presence when I participate in the Eucharist?
Easter Weekday
(Acts 9:1-20; Psalm 117)
KEY VERSE: "Whoever eats my flesh and drinks my blood has eternal life, and I will raise him on the last day" (John 6:54).
TO KNOW: In the sixth chapter of John's Gospel, there are two important elements in Jesus' pronouncement that he was the "bread of life" (v.35). He is both word and sacrament. In John 6:35-50, the "bread of life" is a figure of God's revelation in Jesus: the "word made flesh" (1:14). Beginning in verse 51, the sacramental theme comes to the fore. Jesus plainly says that his flesh is "true food" and his blood is "true drink" (v.55). The Greek word that John used was not merely symbolic (phago means to "eat" or "devour"). He speaks of the reality of Jesus' flesh and blood in his Eucharistic presence. Through word and sacrament, Jesus continues to feed us spiritually, transforming and uniting us to him so that we can worthily enter God's eternal reign. John tells us that he said these things “while teaching in a synagogue in Capernaum” (Jn 6:59).
TO LOVE: Am I aware of Christ's true presence when I participate in the Eucharist?
SATURDAY, MAY 10; JOHN 6:60-69
Easter Weekday
(Acts 9:31-42; Psalm 116)
KEY VERSE: "The words that I have spoken to you are spirit and life" (John 6:63).
TO KNOW: Jesus' teaching that he was the "bread of life" (v.48) caused a division between those who had faith in him and those who did not. Some of Jesus’ disciples had misgivings about his teaching. Jesus did not retract his words but invited his followers to a deeper faith in this mystery, which they could only understand through God's grace. If people could not believe that he was God’s word become flesh (Jn 1:14), what would they think when he ascended to his Father in glory? Many of his disciples turned back and no longer followed him. Jesus then asked the Twelve if they too planned to leave him. Peter, the future leader of the Church, confessed his faith in the life-giving words of Jesus. There was no one else to whom he could go. The twelve apostles are mirrors of ourselves ̶ ̶ flawed but graced human beings.
TO LOVE: Do my words bring others to faith or drive them away?
TO SERVE: Risen Lord, help me to believe your words of everlasting life.
Easter Weekday
(Acts 9:31-42; Psalm 116)
KEY VERSE: "The words that I have spoken to you are spirit and life" (John 6:63).
TO KNOW: Jesus' teaching that he was the "bread of life" (v.48) caused a division between those who had faith in him and those who did not. Some of Jesus’ disciples had misgivings about his teaching. Jesus did not retract his words but invited his followers to a deeper faith in this mystery, which they could only understand through God's grace. If people could not believe that he was God’s word become flesh (Jn 1:14), what would they think when he ascended to his Father in glory? Many of his disciples turned back and no longer followed him. Jesus then asked the Twelve if they too planned to leave him. Peter, the future leader of the Church, confessed his faith in the life-giving words of Jesus. There was no one else to whom he could go. The twelve apostles are mirrors of ourselves ̶ ̶ flawed but graced human beings.
TO LOVE: Do my words bring others to faith or drive them away?
TO SERVE: Risen Lord, help me to believe your words of everlasting life.
Optional Memorial of Saint John of Avila, Priest and Doctor of the Church
St. John of Avila was the Apostle of Andalusia and the spiritual advisor of St. Teresa, St. Francis Borgia, St. John of the Cross, St. Peter of Alcantara, and others. He was born on January 6, 1499, in Almodovar del Campo, Spain. After studying law at the University of Salamanca, he left the university to be a hermit. He then went to Alcala, where he was ordained. John drew great crowds with his fiery denunciations of evil and his many sermons. A brief imprisonment by the Inquisition in Seville made him even more popular. His missionary efforts were centered on Andalusia, and his letters and other writings have become Spanish classics. Accused of heresy, John was cleared by the Inquisition in 1533. He encouraged diocesan Priests to teach in colleges that he founded. John helped the Society of Jesus (the Jesuits) to spread in Spain. His mystical writings have been translated into other languages. John was beatified in 1894 and canonized in 1970. St. John of Avila was declared the 34th Doctor of the Church by Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI in 2011.
St. John of Avila was the Apostle of Andalusia and the spiritual advisor of St. Teresa, St. Francis Borgia, St. John of the Cross, St. Peter of Alcantara, and others. He was born on January 6, 1499, in Almodovar del Campo, Spain. After studying law at the University of Salamanca, he left the university to be a hermit. He then went to Alcala, where he was ordained. John drew great crowds with his fiery denunciations of evil and his many sermons. A brief imprisonment by the Inquisition in Seville made him even more popular. His missionary efforts were centered on Andalusia, and his letters and other writings have become Spanish classics. Accused of heresy, John was cleared by the Inquisition in 1533. He encouraged diocesan Priests to teach in colleges that he founded. John helped the Society of Jesus (the Jesuits) to spread in Spain. His mystical writings have been translated into other languages. John was beatified in 1894 and canonized in 1970. St. John of Avila was declared the 34th Doctor of the Church by Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI in 2011.
Optional Memorial of Saint Damien Joseph de Veuster, Priest
The "Leper Priest of Molokai," named Joseph at birth, received the name Damien in religious life when he joined the Sacred Hearts Fathers in 1860. In 1864, he was sent to Honolulu, Hawaii where he worked in missions. In 1873, he went to the leper colony on Molokai, after volunteering for the assignment. Damien cared for lepers of all ages but was particularly concerned about the children segregated in the colony. Although he contracted leprosy in 1885 he continued to build hospitals, clinics, churches, and some six hundred coffins. He died on April 15, on Molokai. Robert Louis Stevenson defended Damien against a slanderous attack in 1905. It was during Damien’s years at Molokai that a Norwegian doctor, Gerhard Hansen, first identified the bacillus of leprosy. Today, Hansen’s disease, as leprosy is now called, can be slowed and sometimes totally halted, but it still remains a serious illness. The World Health Organization estimates that there are currently 10-12 million cases of Hansen’s disease worldwide. Damien was canonized on October 11, 2009, by Pope Benedict XVI.
The "Leper Priest of Molokai," named Joseph at birth, received the name Damien in religious life when he joined the Sacred Hearts Fathers in 1860. In 1864, he was sent to Honolulu, Hawaii where he worked in missions. In 1873, he went to the leper colony on Molokai, after volunteering for the assignment. Damien cared for lepers of all ages but was particularly concerned about the children segregated in the colony. Although he contracted leprosy in 1885 he continued to build hospitals, clinics, churches, and some six hundred coffins. He died on April 15, on Molokai. Robert Louis Stevenson defended Damien against a slanderous attack in 1905. It was during Damien’s years at Molokai that a Norwegian doctor, Gerhard Hansen, first identified the bacillus of leprosy. Today, Hansen’s disease, as leprosy is now called, can be slowed and sometimes totally halted, but it still remains a serious illness. The World Health Organization estimates that there are currently 10-12 million cases of Hansen’s disease worldwide. Damien was canonized on October 11, 2009, by Pope Benedict XVI.
FOURTH SUNDAY OF EASTER
SUNDAY, MAY 11, JOHN 10:27-30
(Acts 13:14, 43-52; Psalm 100; Revelation 7:9, 14b-17)
KEY VERSE: "Amen, amen, I say to you, I am the gate for the sheep" (John 10:7).
TO KNOW: The figure of God as a shepherd who guides and protects the flock is taken from Israel's pastoral life. Sheep that belonged to various shepherds were brought together in a sheepfold at night. At daybreak, the watchman would open the gate. The shepherd knew his sheep and would call each one by name as he led them out of the sheepfold. The sheep recognized the shepherd's voice and would follow no one else. The shepherd would walk ahead of his flock as they followed him to a place where they would be safe from thieves or predators who might come to "steal and slaughter and destroy" (v.10). Jesus is the "gate for the sheep" (v.7). Those who enter through him will be saved.
TO LOVE: Do I pray for the Pope who shepherds God's people?
TO SERVE: Risen Lord, help me to follow you as you guide me day by day.
NOTE: Good Shepherd Sunday
The Fourth Sunday of Easter is referred to as Good Shepherd Sunday. In John 21:15-18, Jesus makes Peter the chief shepherd of the flock. This day was designated in 1964 as the World Day of Prayer for Vocations. Pope Benedict XVI emeritus, called for everyone to pray for vocations to the priesthood and the consecrated life. His Holiness invited all the faithful to “cultivate an intimate relationship with Christ, Master and Pastor of His people, imitating Mary who guarded the divine mysteries in her heart and contemplated them assiduously." The Church's sanctity depends essentially on her union with Christ and her openness to the mystery of grace at work in the hearts of believers.
SUNDAY, MAY 11, JOHN 10:27-30
(Acts 13:14, 43-52; Psalm 100; Revelation 7:9, 14b-17)
KEY VERSE: "Amen, amen, I say to you, I am the gate for the sheep" (John 10:7).
TO KNOW: The figure of God as a shepherd who guides and protects the flock is taken from Israel's pastoral life. Sheep that belonged to various shepherds were brought together in a sheepfold at night. At daybreak, the watchman would open the gate. The shepherd knew his sheep and would call each one by name as he led them out of the sheepfold. The sheep recognized the shepherd's voice and would follow no one else. The shepherd would walk ahead of his flock as they followed him to a place where they would be safe from thieves or predators who might come to "steal and slaughter and destroy" (v.10). Jesus is the "gate for the sheep" (v.7). Those who enter through him will be saved.
TO LOVE: Do I pray for the Pope who shepherds God's people?
TO SERVE: Risen Lord, help me to follow you as you guide me day by day.
NOTE: Good Shepherd Sunday
The Fourth Sunday of Easter is referred to as Good Shepherd Sunday. In John 21:15-18, Jesus makes Peter the chief shepherd of the flock. This day was designated in 1964 as the World Day of Prayer for Vocations. Pope Benedict XVI emeritus, called for everyone to pray for vocations to the priesthood and the consecrated life. His Holiness invited all the faithful to “cultivate an intimate relationship with Christ, Master and Pastor of His people, imitating Mary who guarded the divine mysteries in her heart and contemplated them assiduously." The Church's sanctity depends essentially on her union with Christ and her openness to the mystery of grace at work in the hearts of believers.
Mother's Day in the United States was first suggested in 1872 by Julia Ward Howe, author of Battle Hymn of the Republic, as a day dedicated to peace, but Howe died without gaining formal recognition for her vision. In 1907, Ana Jarvis, from Philadelphia, inspired by her mother in caring for soldiers and their families during the Civil War, was successful in her campaign for a National Day of Recognition for all mothers to be celebrated on the second anniversary of her mother's death, the 2nd Sunday of May. President Woodrow Wilson, in 1914, made the official announcement proclaiming Mother's Day as a national holiday to be held each year on the 2nd Sunday of May. Many countries celebrate Mother's Day at different times throughout the year.