PALM SUNDAY OF THE PASSION OF THE LORD
SUNDAY, APRIL 13, LUKE 22:14--23:56 or LUKE 23:1-49
(Isaiah 50:4-7; Psalm 22; Philippians 2:6-11)
*Note: Luke 19:28-40 is read before the solemn procession of palms into the church.
KEY VERSE: "This cup that is poured out for you is the new covenant in my blood" (Luke 22:20b).
TO KNOW: Palm Sunday is the final Sunday of Lent, the beginning of Holy Week, and commemorates the triumphant arrival of Christ in Jerusalem, days before he was crucified. On the night before he died, Jesus celebrated the Passover Meal with his disciples in remembrance of Israel's liberation from slavery. At the table of the Lord, Jesus was betrayed by Judas, one of his own disciples. In the garden of Gethsemane, Jesus became the new Adam through his faithful obedience to God's will. When Jesus was arrested, his companions attempted to defend him with a sword. Jesus told them that when violence was fought with violence, evil always won. At Jesus' trial, a criminal named Barabbas (meaning "son of the father"), was set free in place of Jesus, the true "Son of the Father." On Calvary, Jesus was crucified between two thieves, one who rebuked him and one who repented. Jesus died, forgiving his enemies and commending his soul into the hands of his loving Father. By his life and death, he made possible a new relationship between sinful humanity and God. Jesus was the new Moses who led his people through the sea of salvation through baptism and freed them from slavery to sin. Jesus would "pass over" from life to death and to life eternal.
TO LOVE: Am I able to put my life into God's hands?
TO SERVE: Lord Jesus, by your holy cross you have redeemed the world.
SUNDAY, APRIL 13, LUKE 22:14--23:56 or LUKE 23:1-49
(Isaiah 50:4-7; Psalm 22; Philippians 2:6-11)
*Note: Luke 19:28-40 is read before the solemn procession of palms into the church.
KEY VERSE: "This cup that is poured out for you is the new covenant in my blood" (Luke 22:20b).
TO KNOW: Palm Sunday is the final Sunday of Lent, the beginning of Holy Week, and commemorates the triumphant arrival of Christ in Jerusalem, days before he was crucified. On the night before he died, Jesus celebrated the Passover Meal with his disciples in remembrance of Israel's liberation from slavery. At the table of the Lord, Jesus was betrayed by Judas, one of his own disciples. In the garden of Gethsemane, Jesus became the new Adam through his faithful obedience to God's will. When Jesus was arrested, his companions attempted to defend him with a sword. Jesus told them that when violence was fought with violence, evil always won. At Jesus' trial, a criminal named Barabbas (meaning "son of the father"), was set free in place of Jesus, the true "Son of the Father." On Calvary, Jesus was crucified between two thieves, one who rebuked him and one who repented. Jesus died, forgiving his enemies and commending his soul into the hands of his loving Father. By his life and death, he made possible a new relationship between sinful humanity and God. Jesus was the new Moses who led his people through the sea of salvation through baptism and freed them from slavery to sin. Jesus would "pass over" from life to death and to life eternal.
TO LOVE: Am I able to put my life into God's hands?
TO SERVE: Lord Jesus, by your holy cross you have redeemed the world.
PASSOVER BEGINS AT SUNSET
Passover (Hebrew, Pesach) is probably the best-known of the Jewish holidays because it ties in with the Last Supper, apparently a Passover meal. Passover starts at sundown on the 15th day of the Jewish month of Nissan, which typically falls in March or April. It is the first of three major festivals. The other two are Pentecost (Shavu’ot) and Tabernacles (Sukkot). Passover represents the beginning of the harvest season in Israel, but little attention is paid to this aspect of the holiday. The primary observances of Passover are related to the Exodus from Egypt after 400 years of slavery. This story is told in Exodus, Ch. 1-15. The name “Passover” refers to the fact that the angel of death “passed over” the houses of the Jews when slaying the firstborn of Egypt.
Passover (Hebrew, Pesach) is probably the best-known of the Jewish holidays because it ties in with the Last Supper, apparently a Passover meal. Passover starts at sundown on the 15th day of the Jewish month of Nissan, which typically falls in March or April. It is the first of three major festivals. The other two are Pentecost (Shavu’ot) and Tabernacles (Sukkot). Passover represents the beginning of the harvest season in Israel, but little attention is paid to this aspect of the holiday. The primary observances of Passover are related to the Exodus from Egypt after 400 years of slavery. This story is told in Exodus, Ch. 1-15. The name “Passover” refers to the fact that the angel of death “passed over” the houses of the Jews when slaying the firstborn of Egypt.
MONDAY, APRIL 14, JOHN 12:1-11
Monday of Holy Week
(Isaiah 42:1-7; Psalm 27)
KEY VERSE: "Leave her alone. Let her keep this for the day of my burial" (John 12:7).
TO KNOW: After Jesus had raised Lazarus from the dead, he joined his friends Martha and Mary for a joyful celebration in Bethany (“House of Figs”). This would be his last visit with them, for Jesus was on his way to Jerusalem and his passion at Calvary. True to their unique natures, Martha helped with the serving, and Mary knelt at Jesus’ feet to listen to his teaching. As he reclined at the table, Mary anointed his feet with expensive oil (in Luke's gospel, the woman is a repentant sinner, 7:36-38). The house was filled with the fragrance of her generosity, but Judas saw this as an extravagant waste. He declared that the money could be better used for the poor. Jesus commended the woman's deed as an act of charity in preparation for his burial. While there would always be the poor, they would not always have Jesus with them.
TO LOVE: Is my devotion to the Lord reflected in my service to the poor?
TO SERVE: Lord Jesus, may my life be a sweet aroma that draws others to you.
NOTE: Nowhere in the gospels is Mary Magdalene named as a penitent sinner. Her name is first in the list of witnesses to Christ's resurrection (Mk 16:1-11; Mt 28:1; Lk 24:10; Jn 20:11-18; 1 Cor 15:5-8). Mary Magdalene is considered a saint by the Roman Catholic, Eastern Orthodox, and Anglican churches, known as the “Apostle to the Apostles."
Monday of Holy Week
(Isaiah 42:1-7; Psalm 27)
KEY VERSE: "Leave her alone. Let her keep this for the day of my burial" (John 12:7).
TO KNOW: After Jesus had raised Lazarus from the dead, he joined his friends Martha and Mary for a joyful celebration in Bethany (“House of Figs”). This would be his last visit with them, for Jesus was on his way to Jerusalem and his passion at Calvary. True to their unique natures, Martha helped with the serving, and Mary knelt at Jesus’ feet to listen to his teaching. As he reclined at the table, Mary anointed his feet with expensive oil (in Luke's gospel, the woman is a repentant sinner, 7:36-38). The house was filled with the fragrance of her generosity, but Judas saw this as an extravagant waste. He declared that the money could be better used for the poor. Jesus commended the woman's deed as an act of charity in preparation for his burial. While there would always be the poor, they would not always have Jesus with them.
TO LOVE: Is my devotion to the Lord reflected in my service to the poor?
TO SERVE: Lord Jesus, may my life be a sweet aroma that draws others to you.
NOTE: Nowhere in the gospels is Mary Magdalene named as a penitent sinner. Her name is first in the list of witnesses to Christ's resurrection (Mk 16:1-11; Mt 28:1; Lk 24:10; Jn 20:11-18; 1 Cor 15:5-8). Mary Magdalene is considered a saint by the Roman Catholic, Eastern Orthodox, and Anglican churches, known as the “Apostle to the Apostles."
TUESDAY, APRIL 15, JOHN 13:21-33, 36-38
Tuesday of Holy Week
(Isaiah 49:1-6; Psalm 71)
KEY VERSE: "So [Jesus] dipped the morsel and handed it to Judas, son of Simon the Iscariot” (John 13:26).
TO KNOW: During the Passover meal, the last supper Jesus shared with his disciples, he made a solemn declaration that one of his disciples would betray him. Reclining at the table (the Greek style of dining of the day), John leaned his head on Jesus' chest in anguish. Just as Jesus reposed in the heart of the Father, the disciple abided in the bosom of the Lord. Although Judas was preparing to betray him, as a last gesture of love, Jesus handed him a morsel of bitter herbs dipped in salt water (a symbol of the tears shed by the slaves in Egypt). Judas took the offering and quickly departed. Judas’ betrayal expresses the mysterium iniquitatis (the mystery of evil), for there is no rational ground for it. He had spent years intimate with Jesus, sharing table fellowship with him—and yet, he saw fit to turn Jesus over to his enemies. To illustrate Judas' dark deed, John wrote poignantly, "and it was night" (v.30). Jesus warned Peter that he would also betray him by denying that he knew him. Peter protested that he would lay down his life for his Master, but Jesus knew that Peter would fail him. It was left to Jesus to make this final journey alone.
TO LOVE: Am I able to reconcile with someone whom I have hurt or who has injured me?
TO SERVE: Lord Jesus, forgive me for the many ways I betray your love.
Tuesday of Holy Week
(Isaiah 49:1-6; Psalm 71)
KEY VERSE: "So [Jesus] dipped the morsel and handed it to Judas, son of Simon the Iscariot” (John 13:26).
TO KNOW: During the Passover meal, the last supper Jesus shared with his disciples, he made a solemn declaration that one of his disciples would betray him. Reclining at the table (the Greek style of dining of the day), John leaned his head on Jesus' chest in anguish. Just as Jesus reposed in the heart of the Father, the disciple abided in the bosom of the Lord. Although Judas was preparing to betray him, as a last gesture of love, Jesus handed him a morsel of bitter herbs dipped in salt water (a symbol of the tears shed by the slaves in Egypt). Judas took the offering and quickly departed. Judas’ betrayal expresses the mysterium iniquitatis (the mystery of evil), for there is no rational ground for it. He had spent years intimate with Jesus, sharing table fellowship with him—and yet, he saw fit to turn Jesus over to his enemies. To illustrate Judas' dark deed, John wrote poignantly, "and it was night" (v.30). Jesus warned Peter that he would also betray him by denying that he knew him. Peter protested that he would lay down his life for his Master, but Jesus knew that Peter would fail him. It was left to Jesus to make this final journey alone.
TO LOVE: Am I able to reconcile with someone whom I have hurt or who has injured me?
TO SERVE: Lord Jesus, forgive me for the many ways I betray your love.
WEDNESDAY, APRIL 16, MATTHEW 26:14-25
Wednesday of Holy Week
(Isaiah 50:4-9a; Psalm 69)
KEY VERSE: "Amen, I say to you, one of you will betray me" (Matthew 26:21).
TO KNOW: The prophet Zechariah prefigured Jesus in that, even though he was a good shepherd to his flock, his service was rejected. Like Zechariah, Jesus attempted to lead his people with a prophetic and pastoral ministry, but he ended up suffering at the hands of his enemies. Judas Iscariot, one of the Twelve Apostles, plotted with the chief priests to betray Jesus for "thirty pieces of silver," the price of a wounded slave (Ex 21:32; Zec 11:12). Matthew suggested that Judas' motive was greed. But perhaps it was that Judas never truly understand who Jesus was. The other disciples called Jesus "Lord" while Judas addressed him as "rabbi" or "teacher." Although God used Judas' treacherous act to fulfill the divine plan, the disciple was not absolved from personal responsibility for his grievous sin.
TO LOVE: Have I participated in the Sacrament of Reconciliation to repent of my many denials of Jesus' love?
TO SERVE: Lord Jesus, give me the grace to be faithful to you as I take up my cross and follow you.
Wednesday of Holy Week
(Isaiah 50:4-9a; Psalm 69)
KEY VERSE: "Amen, I say to you, one of you will betray me" (Matthew 26:21).
TO KNOW: The prophet Zechariah prefigured Jesus in that, even though he was a good shepherd to his flock, his service was rejected. Like Zechariah, Jesus attempted to lead his people with a prophetic and pastoral ministry, but he ended up suffering at the hands of his enemies. Judas Iscariot, one of the Twelve Apostles, plotted with the chief priests to betray Jesus for "thirty pieces of silver," the price of a wounded slave (Ex 21:32; Zec 11:12). Matthew suggested that Judas' motive was greed. But perhaps it was that Judas never truly understand who Jesus was. The other disciples called Jesus "Lord" while Judas addressed him as "rabbi" or "teacher." Although God used Judas' treacherous act to fulfill the divine plan, the disciple was not absolved from personal responsibility for his grievous sin.
TO LOVE: Have I participated in the Sacrament of Reconciliation to repent of my many denials of Jesus' love?
TO SERVE: Lord Jesus, give me the grace to be faithful to you as I take up my cross and follow you.
The summit of the Liturgical Year is the Easter Triduum—from the evening of Holy Thursday to the evening of Easter Sunday. Though chronologically three days, they are liturgically one day, unfolding for us the unity of Christ's Paschal Mystery. The single celebration of the Triduum marks the end of the Lenten season and leads to the Mass of the Resurrection of the Lord at the Easter Vigil. Holy Thursday is also known as “Maundy Thursday," from the Latin mandatum, for “command,” the instruction Jesus gave at the Last Supper to love and serve one another as he did.
THURSDAY, APRIL 17, JOHN 13:1-15
Thursday of Holy Week (Holy Thursday)
Evening Mass of the Lord's Supper
(Exodus 12:1-8, 11-14; Psalm 116; 1 Corinthians 11:23-26)
KEY VERSE: “As I have done so you must do" (John 13:15).
TO KNOW: Chapter 13 of John's gospel begins the "Book of Glory" (13:1 - 20:31). The “hour” had come, and Jesus was on the threshold of his saving death. He wanted to demonstrate his love for his disciples, a love that he would show them "to the end" (v.1). Although Jesus was "fully aware" that God had put "everything into his power" (v.3), he rose from the table, stripped himself of his outer garments and began to bathe the feet of his disciples, a menial task only required of the lowliest slave. When Peter objected to having his feet washed, Jesus insisted that Peter must receive his love if he wanted to share his heritage. Jesus commanded his disciples they follow his example and serve one another. The washing of the feet on Holy Thursday is a reminder to all who have been cleansed by the purifying waters of Baptism, to follow Christ's example of humble service. He teaches the leaders of the Church that their role must be one of service, not of power.
TO LOVE: Am I willing to do the humble tasks asked of me today?
TO SERVE: Lord Jesus, help me to follow your example of loving service.
NOTE: Participation in Jesus' saving death is through baptism, without which we will have no inheritance with Jesus (John 13:8) and through which we are “clean all over” and need not be washed (baptized) again (v. 10).
Thursday of Holy Week (Holy Thursday)
Evening Mass of the Lord's Supper
(Exodus 12:1-8, 11-14; Psalm 116; 1 Corinthians 11:23-26)
KEY VERSE: “As I have done so you must do" (John 13:15).
TO KNOW: Chapter 13 of John's gospel begins the "Book of Glory" (13:1 - 20:31). The “hour” had come, and Jesus was on the threshold of his saving death. He wanted to demonstrate his love for his disciples, a love that he would show them "to the end" (v.1). Although Jesus was "fully aware" that God had put "everything into his power" (v.3), he rose from the table, stripped himself of his outer garments and began to bathe the feet of his disciples, a menial task only required of the lowliest slave. When Peter objected to having his feet washed, Jesus insisted that Peter must receive his love if he wanted to share his heritage. Jesus commanded his disciples they follow his example and serve one another. The washing of the feet on Holy Thursday is a reminder to all who have been cleansed by the purifying waters of Baptism, to follow Christ's example of humble service. He teaches the leaders of the Church that their role must be one of service, not of power.
TO LOVE: Am I willing to do the humble tasks asked of me today?
TO SERVE: Lord Jesus, help me to follow your example of loving service.
NOTE: Participation in Jesus' saving death is through baptism, without which we will have no inheritance with Jesus (John 13:8) and through which we are “clean all over” and need not be washed (baptized) again (v. 10).
FRIDAY, APRIL 18, JOHN 18:1--19:42
Friday of the Passion of the Lord (Good Friday)
Day of Fast and abstinence
(Isaiah 52:13 ̶ 53:12; Psalm 31; Hebrews 4:14-16, 5:7-9)
KEY VERSE: "It is finished" (John 18:30).
TO KNOW: The passion and death of Jesus is ritually expressed in the liturgy of Good Friday. It is the only day of the year when Mass is not celebrated. The service held in the afternoon recalls the "hour" of Jesus' crucifixion. The red vestments signify the blood that Jesus shed. Just as Jesus was stripped of his garments, the altar is laid bare. The readings are somber; Jesus is the suffering servant of the Lord. The assembly listens to John's Gospel recounting Jesus' passion and death. The mental and physical pains that Jesus suffered cannot be measured. The crown of thorns pierced his head; his back whipped with forty lashes; carrying the cross to the place of his crucifixion and, to add to all this torment, Jesus' hands and feet were nailed to the wood of the cross. At Jesus' last words, "It is finished" (Jn 19: 30), we bow our heads and kneel in prayer. Then we come forward to venerate the cross of salvation, and to receive the body and blood of the Lord in communion. Jesus offers us his forgiveness for all our deadly sins. His crucifixion was the opening up of the divine heart so that we could see that no sin of ours could finally separate us from the love of God.
TO LOVE: Gaze at a crucifix and remember the sacrificial love Jesus has for each of us.
TO SERVE: Lord Jesus, "Through the cross you brought joy to the world" (Antiphon, Veneration of the Cross).
NOTE: Good Friday is a Day of Fast and Abstinence
All Catholics between the age of 18 and 59 are obliged to fast and abstain from meat on Ash Wednesday and Good Friday. One full meatless meal is allowed on the days of fast. Two other meatless meals, sufficient to maintain strength, are allowed. Together, the two meals should not exceed the full meal. Drinking liquids, including milk and fruit juices, does not break the fast.
NOTE: The crimes during the Passion of Christ cannot be attributed to all Jews of that time, nor to Jews today. The Jewish people should not be referred to as rejected or cursed. The Church ever keeps in mind that Jesus, his mother Mary, and the Apostles were all Jewish. As the Church has always held, Christ freely suffered his passion and death because of the sins of all, that all might be saved. -- Bishops' Committee for Ecumenical and Inter-religious Affairs
Friday of the Passion of the Lord (Good Friday)
Day of Fast and abstinence
(Isaiah 52:13 ̶ 53:12; Psalm 31; Hebrews 4:14-16, 5:7-9)
KEY VERSE: "It is finished" (John 18:30).
TO KNOW: The passion and death of Jesus is ritually expressed in the liturgy of Good Friday. It is the only day of the year when Mass is not celebrated. The service held in the afternoon recalls the "hour" of Jesus' crucifixion. The red vestments signify the blood that Jesus shed. Just as Jesus was stripped of his garments, the altar is laid bare. The readings are somber; Jesus is the suffering servant of the Lord. The assembly listens to John's Gospel recounting Jesus' passion and death. The mental and physical pains that Jesus suffered cannot be measured. The crown of thorns pierced his head; his back whipped with forty lashes; carrying the cross to the place of his crucifixion and, to add to all this torment, Jesus' hands and feet were nailed to the wood of the cross. At Jesus' last words, "It is finished" (Jn 19: 30), we bow our heads and kneel in prayer. Then we come forward to venerate the cross of salvation, and to receive the body and blood of the Lord in communion. Jesus offers us his forgiveness for all our deadly sins. His crucifixion was the opening up of the divine heart so that we could see that no sin of ours could finally separate us from the love of God.
TO LOVE: Gaze at a crucifix and remember the sacrificial love Jesus has for each of us.
TO SERVE: Lord Jesus, "Through the cross you brought joy to the world" (Antiphon, Veneration of the Cross).
NOTE: Good Friday is a Day of Fast and Abstinence
All Catholics between the age of 18 and 59 are obliged to fast and abstain from meat on Ash Wednesday and Good Friday. One full meatless meal is allowed on the days of fast. Two other meatless meals, sufficient to maintain strength, are allowed. Together, the two meals should not exceed the full meal. Drinking liquids, including milk and fruit juices, does not break the fast.
NOTE: The crimes during the Passion of Christ cannot be attributed to all Jews of that time, nor to Jews today. The Jewish people should not be referred to as rejected or cursed. The Church ever keeps in mind that Jesus, his mother Mary, and the Apostles were all Jewish. As the Church has always held, Christ freely suffered his passion and death because of the sins of all, that all might be saved. -- Bishops' Committee for Ecumenical and Inter-religious Affairs
SATURDAY, APRIL 19, LUKE 24:1-12
Holy Saturday
Easter Vigil Readings
(Exodus 14:15 ̶ 15:1;* Psalm 118; Romans 6:3-11)
KEY VERSE: "He is not here, but he has been raised." (Luke 24:6)
TO KNOW: The resurrection narrative in Luke's Gospel begins at daybreak on the "first day of the week" (Sunday). Some women who followed Jesus from Galilee (Lk 23:55), came to the tomb to anoint Jesus’ body. They wondered who would roll away the heavy stone, which had been rolled in front of the entrance of the tomb. When they arrived, they discovered that the stone had been rolled away, and the tomb was empty. Two of God's messengers asked the women why they were seeking the "living one" (v.5) among the dead. Just as Jesus foretold, he had been raised from the dead. The women announced this good news to Jesus' disciples, but Peter, as the chief apostle, needed to confirm the story for himself. Just as Jesus was born from the virgin womb of Mary, Jesus was reborn from the virgin tomb in which he was laid.
TO LOVE: To whom do I need to announce the good news of Christ's rising from the dead?
TO SERVE: Lord Jesus, help me to rise to new life with you.
NOTE: For the first reading, at least three Old Testament readings may be read today; one must be from the Book of Exodus.
NOTE: The Easter Vigil is considered the "mother of all vigils" as it is the night when the Church keeps watch in anticipation of the resurrection of Christ. The celebration takes place after nightfall and consists of the Service of the Light, the Liturgy of the Word, the Liturgy of Baptism, and the Liturgy of the Eucharist. The Vigil is marked by the exclamatory "Alleluia," not used since the beginning of Lent. Even if there are no candidates for baptism, the blessing of baptismal water intended for sprinkling upon the people should take place in parish churches. Nine Readings are assigned to the Easter Vigil: seven from the Hebrew Testament and two from the Christian Testament. While this number may be reduced, the reading from Exodus must always be read. During the evening vigil, the elect are plunged into the baptismal waters and there buried with Christ to be reborn to the life of grace when Christ came forth triumphant from the tomb on Easter morning.
Holy Saturday
Easter Vigil Readings
(Exodus 14:15 ̶ 15:1;* Psalm 118; Romans 6:3-11)
KEY VERSE: "He is not here, but he has been raised." (Luke 24:6)
TO KNOW: The resurrection narrative in Luke's Gospel begins at daybreak on the "first day of the week" (Sunday). Some women who followed Jesus from Galilee (Lk 23:55), came to the tomb to anoint Jesus’ body. They wondered who would roll away the heavy stone, which had been rolled in front of the entrance of the tomb. When they arrived, they discovered that the stone had been rolled away, and the tomb was empty. Two of God's messengers asked the women why they were seeking the "living one" (v.5) among the dead. Just as Jesus foretold, he had been raised from the dead. The women announced this good news to Jesus' disciples, but Peter, as the chief apostle, needed to confirm the story for himself. Just as Jesus was born from the virgin womb of Mary, Jesus was reborn from the virgin tomb in which he was laid.
TO LOVE: To whom do I need to announce the good news of Christ's rising from the dead?
TO SERVE: Lord Jesus, help me to rise to new life with you.
NOTE: For the first reading, at least three Old Testament readings may be read today; one must be from the Book of Exodus.
NOTE: The Easter Vigil is considered the "mother of all vigils" as it is the night when the Church keeps watch in anticipation of the resurrection of Christ. The celebration takes place after nightfall and consists of the Service of the Light, the Liturgy of the Word, the Liturgy of Baptism, and the Liturgy of the Eucharist. The Vigil is marked by the exclamatory "Alleluia," not used since the beginning of Lent. Even if there are no candidates for baptism, the blessing of baptismal water intended for sprinkling upon the people should take place in parish churches. Nine Readings are assigned to the Easter Vigil: seven from the Hebrew Testament and two from the Christian Testament. While this number may be reduced, the reading from Exodus must always be read. During the evening vigil, the elect are plunged into the baptismal waters and there buried with Christ to be reborn to the life of grace when Christ came forth triumphant from the tomb on Easter morning.
SOLEMNITY OF EASTER SUNDAY OF THE RESURRECTION OF THE LORD
SUNDAY, APRIL 20, LUKE 24:1-12 (or JOHN 20:1-9)
(Acts 10:34,37-43; Psalm 118; Colossians 3:1-4 or 1 Corinthians 5:6b-8)
KEY VERSE: "Then they returned from the tomb and announced all these things to the eleven and to all the others" (Luke 24:9).
TO KNOW: Luke’s account of the discovery of the empty tomb follows Mark's narrative but adds the story of Peter’s visit to the tomb (known in a different form in John 20:3–8). In each Gospel, the actual event is unseen. The Evangelists only tell us what happened afterward. In Luke's Gospel, it is the daybreak of the "first day of the week" (Sunday), the dawning of the first day of the new creation. Some women who followed Jesus from Galilee (Lk 23:55), came to the tomb to anoint Jesus’ body. They wondered who would roll away the heavy stone that had been rolled in front of the entrance of the tomb. When they arrived, they discovered that the stone was rolled away and the tomb was empty. God's messengers asked the women why they were seeking the "living one" (Luke 24:5) among the dead. Just as Jesus foretold, he had been raised from the dead. The women announced this good news to Jesus' disciples, but Peter, as the chief apostle, needed to confirm the story for himself. When he entered the tomb, he only saw the burial cloths; then he went home amazed at what had happened (v 12).
TO LOVE: Have I experienced new life in Jesus?
TO SERVE: Lord Jesus, "you conquered the power of death and opened for us the way to eternal life" (Opening Prayer).
NOTE: Following an ancient tradition, the Church regards the eight days (an octave) from the Paschal Feast of the Resurrection to the Second Sunday of Easter as a single unit of celebration. The preface for Easter day is prayed again on the Second Sunday of Easter even though it is a week behind us: "We praise you with greater joy than ever on this Easter day." The celebration of the liturgy is full of joy at the close of the octave of this great feast! The Easter season of 50 days continues through the Seventh Sunday of Easter (Celebrated as the Solemnity of the Ascension of the Lord in some dioceses)
SUNDAY, APRIL 20, LUKE 24:1-12 (or JOHN 20:1-9)
(Acts 10:34,37-43; Psalm 118; Colossians 3:1-4 or 1 Corinthians 5:6b-8)
KEY VERSE: "Then they returned from the tomb and announced all these things to the eleven and to all the others" (Luke 24:9).
TO KNOW: Luke’s account of the discovery of the empty tomb follows Mark's narrative but adds the story of Peter’s visit to the tomb (known in a different form in John 20:3–8). In each Gospel, the actual event is unseen. The Evangelists only tell us what happened afterward. In Luke's Gospel, it is the daybreak of the "first day of the week" (Sunday), the dawning of the first day of the new creation. Some women who followed Jesus from Galilee (Lk 23:55), came to the tomb to anoint Jesus’ body. They wondered who would roll away the heavy stone that had been rolled in front of the entrance of the tomb. When they arrived, they discovered that the stone was rolled away and the tomb was empty. God's messengers asked the women why they were seeking the "living one" (Luke 24:5) among the dead. Just as Jesus foretold, he had been raised from the dead. The women announced this good news to Jesus' disciples, but Peter, as the chief apostle, needed to confirm the story for himself. When he entered the tomb, he only saw the burial cloths; then he went home amazed at what had happened (v 12).
TO LOVE: Have I experienced new life in Jesus?
TO SERVE: Lord Jesus, "you conquered the power of death and opened for us the way to eternal life" (Opening Prayer).
NOTE: Following an ancient tradition, the Church regards the eight days (an octave) from the Paschal Feast of the Resurrection to the Second Sunday of Easter as a single unit of celebration. The preface for Easter day is prayed again on the Second Sunday of Easter even though it is a week behind us: "We praise you with greater joy than ever on this Easter day." The celebration of the liturgy is full of joy at the close of the octave of this great feast! The Easter season of 50 days continues through the Seventh Sunday of Easter (Celebrated as the Solemnity of the Ascension of the Lord in some dioceses)
MONDAY, APRIL 21, MATTHEW 28:8-15
Monday within the Octave of Easter
(Acts 2:14, 22-33; Psalm 16)
KEY VERSE: "Do not be afraid. Go tell my brothers to go to Galilee, and there they will see me" (Matthew 28:10).
TO KNOW: By the time Matthew wrote his gospel, there was a dispute between the Jewish leaders and the followers of Jesus regarding the meaning of the empty tomb. The religious leaders believed Jesus' followers had stolen his body. Matthew maintained that the men had fled Jerusalem after Jesus' arrest (Matthew 26:56); therefore, they could not be guilty. Women were the only eyewitnesses to the empty tomb. When they came to the tomb to anoint Jesus' body, they were commanded by an angelic messenger to inform the disciples that Jesus had been raised from the dead. They were afraid because a woman's testimony was not considered valid, yet they hastened to announce the joyful news that Jesus had risen. As they went on their way, the Risen Christ appeared and told them to have no fear. He would meet his disciples in Galilee.
TO LOVE: Have I shared the good news of the Resurrection with someone who needs to hear it?
TO SERVE: Risen Lord, help me to overcome my fears to proclaim your gospel.
NOTE: Following the ancient tradition, the Church regards the eight days (an octave) from the Paschal feast to the Second Sunday of Easter as a single unit. The preface for Easter day is prayed again on the Second Sunday, even though it is a week behind us: "We praise you with greater joy than ever on this Easter day." The celebration of the liturgy is full of joy at the close of the octave of this greatest feast! The Easter season of 50 days continues through the Feast of Pentecost.
Monday within the Octave of Easter
(Acts 2:14, 22-33; Psalm 16)
KEY VERSE: "Do not be afraid. Go tell my brothers to go to Galilee, and there they will see me" (Matthew 28:10).
TO KNOW: By the time Matthew wrote his gospel, there was a dispute between the Jewish leaders and the followers of Jesus regarding the meaning of the empty tomb. The religious leaders believed Jesus' followers had stolen his body. Matthew maintained that the men had fled Jerusalem after Jesus' arrest (Matthew 26:56); therefore, they could not be guilty. Women were the only eyewitnesses to the empty tomb. When they came to the tomb to anoint Jesus' body, they were commanded by an angelic messenger to inform the disciples that Jesus had been raised from the dead. They were afraid because a woman's testimony was not considered valid, yet they hastened to announce the joyful news that Jesus had risen. As they went on their way, the Risen Christ appeared and told them to have no fear. He would meet his disciples in Galilee.
TO LOVE: Have I shared the good news of the Resurrection with someone who needs to hear it?
TO SERVE: Risen Lord, help me to overcome my fears to proclaim your gospel.
NOTE: Following the ancient tradition, the Church regards the eight days (an octave) from the Paschal feast to the Second Sunday of Easter as a single unit. The preface for Easter day is prayed again on the Second Sunday, even though it is a week behind us: "We praise you with greater joy than ever on this Easter day." The celebration of the liturgy is full of joy at the close of the octave of this greatest feast! The Easter season of 50 days continues through the Feast of Pentecost.
TUESDAY, APRIL 22, JOHN 20:11-18
Tuesday within the Octave of Easter
(Acts 2:36-41; Psalm 33)
KEY VERSE: "I have seen the Lord" (John 20:18).
TO KNOW: When Mary Magdalene told Peter and John that Jesus had risen from the dead, they hurried to inspect the empty tomb for themselves. When they returned to their homes, Mary Magdalene was left alone in the garden. Fearing that someone had taken away Jesus' body, she wept. When the Risen Christ appeared to her, she mistook him for the gardener. In truth, he was the new Adam, the keeper of the garden of the new creation. Through her tears, Mary failed to recognize her Lord, but when he spoke her name, she knew that he was her "dear master" (Hebrew, Rabbouni, teacher). Jesus told her not to cling to him in the joy of her discovery. He had a mission for her, that of sharing the good news with his "brothers," the rest of his disciples. The Church regards Mary Magdalene as an "Apostle to the Apostles," the redeemed daughter of the Lord," the first to see the Risen Christ.
TO LOVE: Do I give testimony of the Risen Christ to my brothers and sisters?
TO SERVE: Risen Lord, help me to recognize you in all those around me.
Tuesday within the Octave of Easter
(Acts 2:36-41; Psalm 33)
KEY VERSE: "I have seen the Lord" (John 20:18).
TO KNOW: When Mary Magdalene told Peter and John that Jesus had risen from the dead, they hurried to inspect the empty tomb for themselves. When they returned to their homes, Mary Magdalene was left alone in the garden. Fearing that someone had taken away Jesus' body, she wept. When the Risen Christ appeared to her, she mistook him for the gardener. In truth, he was the new Adam, the keeper of the garden of the new creation. Through her tears, Mary failed to recognize her Lord, but when he spoke her name, she knew that he was her "dear master" (Hebrew, Rabbouni, teacher). Jesus told her not to cling to him in the joy of her discovery. He had a mission for her, that of sharing the good news with his "brothers," the rest of his disciples. The Church regards Mary Magdalene as an "Apostle to the Apostles," the redeemed daughter of the Lord," the first to see the Risen Christ.
TO LOVE: Do I give testimony of the Risen Christ to my brothers and sisters?
TO SERVE: Risen Lord, help me to recognize you in all those around me.
Earth Day is observed each year by the United Nations and by people around the world acting as responsible trustees of the earth. All individuals and institutions have a mutual responsibility to act as guardians of the earth, seeking the choices in ecology, economics, and ethics that will eliminate pollution, poverty, and violence, foster peaceful progress, awaken the wonder of life, and realize the best potential for the future of humanity.
"God created man in his image; in the divine image he created him; male and female he created them. God blessed them, saying: “Be fertile and multiply; fill the earth and subdue it. Have dominion over the fish of the sea, the birds of the air, and all the living things that move on the earth.'” (Genesis 1:27-28).
"God created man in his image; in the divine image he created him; male and female he created them. God blessed them, saying: “Be fertile and multiply; fill the earth and subdue it. Have dominion over the fish of the sea, the birds of the air, and all the living things that move on the earth.'” (Genesis 1:27-28).
HOLOCAUST REMEMBRANCE DAY
(Yom Ha Shoah in Hebrew)
The United Nations General Assembly designated this day as ‘International Holocaust Remembrance Day’ (IHRD), an annual day of commemoration to honor the victims of the Nazi era. Every member nation of the U.N. has an obligation to honor the memory of Holocaust victims and develop educational programs as part of an international resolve to help prevent future acts of genocide. The U.N. resolution that created IHRD rejects denial of the Holocaust and condemns discrimination and violence based on religion or ethnicity. For Jews, Holocaust Remembrance Day will begin on the evening of Wednesday, April 23, 2025
(Yom Ha Shoah in Hebrew)
The United Nations General Assembly designated this day as ‘International Holocaust Remembrance Day’ (IHRD), an annual day of commemoration to honor the victims of the Nazi era. Every member nation of the U.N. has an obligation to honor the memory of Holocaust victims and develop educational programs as part of an international resolve to help prevent future acts of genocide. The U.N. resolution that created IHRD rejects denial of the Holocaust and condemns discrimination and violence based on religion or ethnicity. For Jews, Holocaust Remembrance Day will begin on the evening of Wednesday, April 23, 2025
WEDNESDAY, APRIL 23, LUKE 24:13-35
Wednesday within the Octave of Easter
(Acts 3:1-10; Psalm 105)
KEY VERSE: "Were not our hearts burning within us while he spoke to us on the way and opened the scriptures to us?" (Luke 24:32).
TO KNOW: On their way home from their pilgrimage for the Feast of Passover, two disciples discussed the meaning of the events that they witnessed in Jerusalem. As they walked along, the Risen Christ appeared to them. But they did not recognize him and mistook him for another pilgrim. They told the "stranger" that Jesus was a mighty "prophet" (v. 19). Jesus then opened the scriptures and explained to them God's plan as revealed in the Law and the Prophets (the Torah). Although they had lost hope that Jesus was the expected Messiah, the "one to redeem Israel" (v. 21), Jesus told them that it was "necessary" that he should suffer to enter glory (v. 26). At nightfall, the disciples urged him to stay and share a meal with them. At first, their eyes were closed to Jesus' identity, but then they recognized him at table "in the breaking of the bread" (v. 35). Although Jesus vanished from sight, he continues to be present to us in the breaking of the word in the scriptures and the breaking of the bread in the Eucharist.
TO LOVE: Only one disciple (Cleopas) is named in the story. Am I the other disciple?
TO SERVE: Risen Lord, help me to recognize your presence in the Mass.
NOTE: "Our Hearts Were Burning within Us" is a Pastoral Plan for Adult Faith Formation in the United States from the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB). The bishops call "Every disciple of the Lord Jesus to share in this mission. To do their part, adult Catholics must be mature in faith and well-equipped to share the Gospel, promoting it in every family circle, in every church gathering, in every place of work, and in every public forum. They must be women and men of prayer whose faith is alive and vital, grounded in a deep commitment to the person and message of Jesus."
Wednesday within the Octave of Easter
(Acts 3:1-10; Psalm 105)
KEY VERSE: "Were not our hearts burning within us while he spoke to us on the way and opened the scriptures to us?" (Luke 24:32).
TO KNOW: On their way home from their pilgrimage for the Feast of Passover, two disciples discussed the meaning of the events that they witnessed in Jerusalem. As they walked along, the Risen Christ appeared to them. But they did not recognize him and mistook him for another pilgrim. They told the "stranger" that Jesus was a mighty "prophet" (v. 19). Jesus then opened the scriptures and explained to them God's plan as revealed in the Law and the Prophets (the Torah). Although they had lost hope that Jesus was the expected Messiah, the "one to redeem Israel" (v. 21), Jesus told them that it was "necessary" that he should suffer to enter glory (v. 26). At nightfall, the disciples urged him to stay and share a meal with them. At first, their eyes were closed to Jesus' identity, but then they recognized him at table "in the breaking of the bread" (v. 35). Although Jesus vanished from sight, he continues to be present to us in the breaking of the word in the scriptures and the breaking of the bread in the Eucharist.
TO LOVE: Only one disciple (Cleopas) is named in the story. Am I the other disciple?
TO SERVE: Risen Lord, help me to recognize your presence in the Mass.
NOTE: "Our Hearts Were Burning within Us" is a Pastoral Plan for Adult Faith Formation in the United States from the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB). The bishops call "Every disciple of the Lord Jesus to share in this mission. To do their part, adult Catholics must be mature in faith and well-equipped to share the Gospel, promoting it in every family circle, in every church gathering, in every place of work, and in every public forum. They must be women and men of prayer whose faith is alive and vital, grounded in a deep commitment to the person and message of Jesus."
THURSDAY, APRIL 24, LUKE 24:35-48
Thursday within the Octave of Easter
(Acts 3:11-26; Psalm 8)
KEY VERSE: "He stood in their midst and said to them, `Peace be with you'" (Luke 24:36).
TO KNOW: After the two pilgrims from Emmaus recognized Jesus "in the breaking of the bread" (v. 35), they returned to Jerusalem to announce the good news to the eleven Apostles and those with them. But they discovered that Simon (Peter) had already experienced the risen Lord. Then the pilgrims recounted how their hearts burned within them on their journey to Emmaus, how Jesus opened the scriptures to them, and how he became known to them in the breaking of bread. While they were still speaking, Jesus appeared in their midst and imparted peace to his distressed followers. He reassured them that he was not a ghost by showing them the wounds of the crucifixion and by sharing a meal with them. He reminded them that he had told them that he would suffer, die, and rise from the dead. Jesus declared that everything in the scriptures had been fulfilled by him. His followers were witnesses of these events and were commanded to proclaim a message of "repentance for the forgiveness of sins" (v. 47).
TO LOVE: In what ways do I bring the peace of Christ to those who are anxious and afraid?
TO SERVE: Risen Lord, give me the courage to proclaim your resurrection.
Thursday within the Octave of Easter
(Acts 3:11-26; Psalm 8)
KEY VERSE: "He stood in their midst and said to them, `Peace be with you'" (Luke 24:36).
TO KNOW: After the two pilgrims from Emmaus recognized Jesus "in the breaking of the bread" (v. 35), they returned to Jerusalem to announce the good news to the eleven Apostles and those with them. But they discovered that Simon (Peter) had already experienced the risen Lord. Then the pilgrims recounted how their hearts burned within them on their journey to Emmaus, how Jesus opened the scriptures to them, and how he became known to them in the breaking of bread. While they were still speaking, Jesus appeared in their midst and imparted peace to his distressed followers. He reassured them that he was not a ghost by showing them the wounds of the crucifixion and by sharing a meal with them. He reminded them that he had told them that he would suffer, die, and rise from the dead. Jesus declared that everything in the scriptures had been fulfilled by him. His followers were witnesses of these events and were commanded to proclaim a message of "repentance for the forgiveness of sins" (v. 47).
TO LOVE: In what ways do I bring the peace of Christ to those who are anxious and afraid?
TO SERVE: Risen Lord, give me the courage to proclaim your resurrection.
FRIDAY, APRIL 25, JOHN 21:1-14
Friday within the Octave of Easter
(Acts 4:1-12; Psalm 118)
KEY VERSE: "It is the Lord!" (John 21:7).
TO KNOW: After the resurrection, Peter and six other disciples went fishing. In the half-light of the morning, the Risen Christ called to them 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 brought forth a great catch of fish. John was the first to understand the meaning of this sign and cried, "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 is a symbol of the future mission of the Church to bring all souls to Christ. St. Jerome claimed that the Greeks identified 153 species of fish in the sea. The miraculous catch included every kind of fish; therefore, the number symbolized the day when all of the nations would be gathered together in God's kingdom. When Jesus' disciples assembled on the shore, he shared a meal with them, distributing bread and fish just as he did in the miraculous multiplication of the loaves and fish in the wilderness (Jn 6:1-13). The Risen Christ was not a vision or a spirit, nor was he a ghost. He was the Lord who conquered sin and death through his dying and rising.
TO LOVE: Do I allow the Lord to direct me despite doubts as to the outcome?
TO SERVE: Risen Lord, guide all my words and deeds so that I will bring many souls to you.
Friday within the Octave of Easter
(Acts 4:1-12; Psalm 118)
KEY VERSE: "It is the Lord!" (John 21:7).
TO KNOW: After the resurrection, Peter and six other disciples went fishing. In the half-light of the morning, the Risen Christ called to them 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 brought forth a great catch of fish. John was the first to understand the meaning of this sign and cried, "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 is a symbol of the future mission of the Church to bring all souls to Christ. St. Jerome claimed that the Greeks identified 153 species of fish in the sea. The miraculous catch included every kind of fish; therefore, the number symbolized the day when all of the nations would be gathered together in God's kingdom. When Jesus' disciples assembled on the shore, he shared a meal with them, distributing bread and fish just as he did in the miraculous multiplication of the loaves and fish in the wilderness (Jn 6:1-13). The Risen Christ was not a vision or a spirit, nor was he a ghost. He was the Lord who conquered sin and death through his dying and rising.
TO LOVE: Do I allow the Lord to direct me despite doubts as to the outcome?
TO SERVE: Risen Lord, guide all my words and deeds so that I will bring many souls to you.
ARBOR DAY
The observance of Arbor Day was founded by J. Sterling Morton in Nebraska in 1872 (arbor means “tree” in Latin). Arbor Day is celebrated each year on the last Friday in April. The National Arbor Day Foundation encourages people to plant and care for trees and to advance global environmental stewardship for the benefit of this and future generations. www.arborday.org/
"Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world. Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has."
Margaret Mead, anthropologist
The observance of Arbor Day was founded by J. Sterling Morton in Nebraska in 1872 (arbor means “tree” in Latin). Arbor Day is celebrated each year on the last Friday in April. The National Arbor Day Foundation encourages people to plant and care for trees and to advance global environmental stewardship for the benefit of this and future generations. www.arborday.org/
"Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world. Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has."
Margaret Mead, anthropologist
SATURDAY, APRIL 26, MARK 16:9-15
Saturday within the Octave of Easter
(Acts 4:13-21; Psalm 118)
KEY VERSE: "Go into the whole world and proclaim the Gospel to every creature" (Mark 16:15).
TO KNOW: This section of Mark's Gospel (verses 9-20) is termed the "Longer Ending." It is believed that this material was added later from other traditions to complete what was thought to be an abrupt ending of the empty tomb in Mark's gospel. The longer version includes Christ's appearance to Mary Magdalene (see John 20:1-18) and to two disciples on a country road to Emmaus (see Luke 24:13-24). The disciples did not believe any of these witnesses, and later, when they "were at table" (Mark 16:14, Eucharist), the Lord appeared to them and rebuked them for their unbelief. Jesus then commissioned his followers to go into the world and proclaim the message of salvation to everyone. Mark's purpose in writing was complete; Jesus was raised from the dead just as he told his followers. Mark’s message encouraged the Christian community to be fearless in announcing the gospel of Jesus. Mark’s original ending leaves his readers to “complete” his Gospel by how they live their lives.
TO LOVE: Have I the courage to share the good news with unbelievers?
TO SERVE: Risen Lord, help me to believe that you are with us always.
Saturday within the Octave of Easter
(Acts 4:13-21; Psalm 118)
KEY VERSE: "Go into the whole world and proclaim the Gospel to every creature" (Mark 16:15).
TO KNOW: This section of Mark's Gospel (verses 9-20) is termed the "Longer Ending." It is believed that this material was added later from other traditions to complete what was thought to be an abrupt ending of the empty tomb in Mark's gospel. The longer version includes Christ's appearance to Mary Magdalene (see John 20:1-18) and to two disciples on a country road to Emmaus (see Luke 24:13-24). The disciples did not believe any of these witnesses, and later, when they "were at table" (Mark 16:14, Eucharist), the Lord appeared to them and rebuked them for their unbelief. Jesus then commissioned his followers to go into the world and proclaim the message of salvation to everyone. Mark's purpose in writing was complete; Jesus was raised from the dead just as he told his followers. Mark’s message encouraged the Christian community to be fearless in announcing the gospel of Jesus. Mark’s original ending leaves his readers to “complete” his Gospel by how they live their lives.
TO LOVE: Have I the courage to share the good news with unbelievers?
TO SERVE: Risen Lord, help me to believe that you are with us always.
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.