The Easter season is the second-longest liturgical season. Only ordinary time is longer. The Church celebrates the Easter season (also known as “Eastertide”) for fifty days, culminating with the feast of Pentecost, where Scripture (Acts 2:1–31) tells us that the Holy Spirit descended on the Apostles. Divine Mercy Sunday and the Ascension, a holy day of obligation, take place during the Easter season.
THIRD SUNDAY OF EASTER
SUNDAY, APRIL 14, LUKE 24:35-48
(Acts 3:13-15,17-19; Psalm 24; 1 John 2:1-5a)
KEY VERSE: "Thus it was written that the Messiah would suffer and rise from the dead on the third day" (Luke 24:46).
TO KNOW: The disciples of Emmaus returned to Jerusalem and reported to the eleven apostles that they had witnessed the Risen Christ. The Apostles in turn exclaimed that Christ had also appeared to Simon Peter. While they were still speaking, Christ appeared in their midst and proclaimed "Peace" to them (v. 36). He assured the terrified disciples that he was not a ghost. When he invited them to touch him and asked for food, the disciples were overjoyed. Again, Jesus explained everything that had been written about him in the "Law of Moses and in the prophets and psalms" (v. 44). These three divisions of the Hebrew Scriptures are the law "Torah," the Prophets "Nebi'im," and the Writings "Kethubim" (acronym: "TaNaK"). Then Jesus commissioned his disciples to preach the message of salvation in his name: "repentance for the forgiveness of sins, beginning from Jerusalem" (v. 47).
TO LOVE: Do I see Christ in the hungry and wounded around me?
TO SERVE: Risen Lord, help me to be a faithful witness to you.
SUNDAY, APRIL 14, LUKE 24:35-48
(Acts 3:13-15,17-19; Psalm 24; 1 John 2:1-5a)
KEY VERSE: "Thus it was written that the Messiah would suffer and rise from the dead on the third day" (Luke 24:46).
TO KNOW: The disciples of Emmaus returned to Jerusalem and reported to the eleven apostles that they had witnessed the Risen Christ. The Apostles in turn exclaimed that Christ had also appeared to Simon Peter. While they were still speaking, Christ appeared in their midst and proclaimed "Peace" to them (v. 36). He assured the terrified disciples that he was not a ghost. When he invited them to touch him and asked for food, the disciples were overjoyed. Again, Jesus explained everything that had been written about him in the "Law of Moses and in the prophets and psalms" (v. 44). These three divisions of the Hebrew Scriptures are the law "Torah," the Prophets "Nebi'im," and the Writings "Kethubim" (acronym: "TaNaK"). Then Jesus commissioned his disciples to preach the message of salvation in his name: "repentance for the forgiveness of sins, beginning from Jerusalem" (v. 47).
TO LOVE: Do I see Christ in the hungry and wounded around me?
TO SERVE: Risen Lord, help me to be a faithful witness to you.
MONDAY, APRIL 15, JOHN 6:22-29
Easter Weekday
(Acts 6:8-15; Psalm 119)
KEY VERSE: "Do not work for food that perishes but for the food that endures for eternal life" (John 6:27).
TO KNOW: After the miraculous multiplication of loaves, the crowd noticed that Jesus' disciples had departed by boat across the Sea of Galilee. Assuming that Jesus was nearby, they waited impatiently for his return. Failing to find him, they went in search of him across the lake to Capernaum. When they found him, Jesus said that they were looking for him for the wrong reasons. They were like Israel in the desert after they escaped from Egypt. Alone, afraid, and without food, they clamored for the manna that Moses gave them in the wilderness. But they missed the true meaning of the sign, food that "endures for eternal life" (Jn 6:27). Jesus told the crowd that food appeased hunger momentarily; they should look to God to satisfy their spiritual needs. No one could work for this gift, deserve it, or earn it. The only way to receive it was to believe in Jesus, the one whom God had sent to them.
TO LOVE: What can I do to feed someone’s spiritual hunger?
TO SERVE: Risen Lord, you are the life-giving nourishment that I desire.
TUESDAY, APRIL 16, JOHN 6:30-35
Easter Weekday
(Acts 7:51 ̶ 8:1a; Psalm 31)
KEY VERSE: "I am the bread of life; whoever comes to me will never hunger, and whoever believes in me will never thirst" (John 6:35).
TO KNOW: Even though the people had witnessed Jesus’ multiplication of the loaves in the wilderness, they demanded another "sign" such as Moses gave their ancestors, the "manna" in the desert (Ex 16:15). By seeking signs, they were looking for perishable food and were missing the true nourishment that God had given them. The people were focusing on their physical hunger. They must look to Jesus who was the authentic sign of God's providential care. It was God, not Moses, who provided the "bread from heaven" (v.32). Jesus is the "Bread of Life" (v.35) who gives eternal salvation to all who believe in him. John tells us that he said these things he said, "while teaching in the synagogue in Capernaum" (Jn 6:59).
TO LOVE: Is there someone whom I can help to appreciate Jesus' presence in the Eucharist?
TO SERVE: Risen Lord, you are the bread that feeds my soul for life everlasting.
Easter Weekday
(Acts 7:51 ̶ 8:1a; Psalm 31)
KEY VERSE: "I am the bread of life; whoever comes to me will never hunger, and whoever believes in me will never thirst" (John 6:35).
TO KNOW: Even though the people had witnessed Jesus’ multiplication of the loaves in the wilderness, they demanded another "sign" such as Moses gave their ancestors, the "manna" in the desert (Ex 16:15). By seeking signs, they were looking for perishable food and were missing the true nourishment that God had given them. The people were focusing on their physical hunger. They must look to Jesus who was the authentic sign of God's providential care. It was God, not Moses, who provided the "bread from heaven" (v.32). Jesus is the "Bread of Life" (v.35) who gives eternal salvation to all who believe in him. John tells us that he said these things he said, "while teaching in the synagogue in Capernaum" (Jn 6:59).
TO LOVE: Is there someone whom I can help to appreciate Jesus' presence in the Eucharist?
TO SERVE: Risen Lord, you are the bread that feeds my soul for life everlasting.
WEDNESDAY, APRIL 17, JOHN 6:35-40
Easter Weekday
(Acts 8:1b-8; Psalm 66)
KEY VERSE: "For this is the will of my Father, that everyone who sees the Son and believes in him may have eternal life" (John 6:40).
TO KNOW: Jesus revealed God's word to the people, yet some refused to believe in him. They failed to comprehend the meaning of the miraculous sign of the bread that Jesus gave them in the wilderness (v.30-31). They did not understand that Jesus was the fullness of God's revelation and the source of eternal salvation. Jesus insists that he not only gives the bread from heaven, but he is the life-giving "bread" sent by God who would satisfy the people's hunger and thirst forever. Jesus did not reject anyone who came to him in faith. He was careful not to lose a single fragment of the miraculous loaves. So too, none of the souls God entrusted to him would perish. They would share eternal life with him.
TO LOVE: Do I take time to be nourished by God's word?
TO SERVE: Risen Lord, feed me with your sacred word so that I can live eternally with you.
Easter Weekday
(Acts 8:1b-8; Psalm 66)
KEY VERSE: "For this is the will of my Father, that everyone who sees the Son and believes in him may have eternal life" (John 6:40).
TO KNOW: Jesus revealed God's word to the people, yet some refused to believe in him. They failed to comprehend the meaning of the miraculous sign of the bread that Jesus gave them in the wilderness (v.30-31). They did not understand that Jesus was the fullness of God's revelation and the source of eternal salvation. Jesus insists that he not only gives the bread from heaven, but he is the life-giving "bread" sent by God who would satisfy the people's hunger and thirst forever. Jesus did not reject anyone who came to him in faith. He was careful not to lose a single fragment of the miraculous loaves. So too, none of the souls God entrusted to him would perish. They would share eternal life with him.
TO LOVE: Do I take time to be nourished by God's word?
TO SERVE: Risen Lord, feed me with your sacred word so that I can live eternally with you.
THURSDAY, APRIL 18, JOHN 6:44-51
Easter Weekday
(Acts 8:26-40; Psalm 66)
KEY VERSE: "This is the bread that comes down from heaven so that one may eat it and not die" (John 6:50).
TO KNOW: On the Exodus journey through the wilderness, the people grumbled against God and Moses for having brought them into the desert only to die of starvation. Nevertheless, Moses fed them with the "manna" that God provided (Ex 16:2, 15). Jesus also fed the hungry people in the wilderness with miraculous loaves, and just like the people of the Exodus, they murmured against him when he told them that he was the "bread that came down from heaven" (v.41). The bread in the wilderness was only a foretaste of the true bread, Jesus, who came from God. The Israelites ate the manna in the desert, but they all died. Jesus is the life-giving bread who eternally sustains those who believe in him. Whoever listens to God's truth is drawn to Jesus who is Divine Wisdom incarnate.
TO LOVE: Do I help those who are physically and spiritually hungry?
TO SERVE: Risen Lord, feed me with your life-giving Sacrament so that I can live eternally with you.
Easter Weekday
(Acts 8:26-40; Psalm 66)
KEY VERSE: "This is the bread that comes down from heaven so that one may eat it and not die" (John 6:50).
TO KNOW: On the Exodus journey through the wilderness, the people grumbled against God and Moses for having brought them into the desert only to die of starvation. Nevertheless, Moses fed them with the "manna" that God provided (Ex 16:2, 15). Jesus also fed the hungry people in the wilderness with miraculous loaves, and just like the people of the Exodus, they murmured against him when he told them that he was the "bread that came down from heaven" (v.41). The bread in the wilderness was only a foretaste of the true bread, Jesus, who came from God. The Israelites ate the manna in the desert, but they all died. Jesus is the life-giving bread who eternally sustains those who believe in him. Whoever listens to God's truth is drawn to Jesus who is Divine Wisdom incarnate.
TO LOVE: Do I help those who are physically and spiritually hungry?
TO SERVE: Risen Lord, feed me with your life-giving Sacrament so that I can live eternally with you.
FRIDAY, APRIL 19, JOHN 6:52-59
Easter Weekday
(Acts 9:1-20; Psalm 117)
KEY VERSE: "Whoever eats my flesh and drinks my blood has eternal life, and I will raise him on the last day" (John 6:54).
TO KNOW: In the sixth chapter of John's Gospel, there are two important elements in Jesus' pronouncement that he was the "bread of life" (v.35). He is both word and sacrament. In John 6:35-50, the "bread of life" is a figure of God's revelation in Jesus: the "word made flesh" (1:14). Beginning in verse 51, the sacramental theme comes to the fore. Jesus plainly says that his flesh is "true food" and his blood is "true drink" (v.55). The Greek word that John used was not merely symbolic (phago means to "eat" or "devour"). He speaks of the reality of Jesus' flesh and blood in his Eucharistic presence. Through word and sacrament, Jesus continues to feed us spiritually, transforming and uniting us to him so that we can worthily enter God's eternal reign. John tells us that he said these things “while teaching in a synagogue in Capernaum” (Jn 6:59).
TO LOVE: Am I aware of Christ's true presence when I participate in the Eucharist?
TO SERVE: Risen Lord, feed me at your table of eternal life.
Easter Weekday
(Acts 9:1-20; Psalm 117)
KEY VERSE: "Whoever eats my flesh and drinks my blood has eternal life, and I will raise him on the last day" (John 6:54).
TO KNOW: In the sixth chapter of John's Gospel, there are two important elements in Jesus' pronouncement that he was the "bread of life" (v.35). He is both word and sacrament. In John 6:35-50, the "bread of life" is a figure of God's revelation in Jesus: the "word made flesh" (1:14). Beginning in verse 51, the sacramental theme comes to the fore. Jesus plainly says that his flesh is "true food" and his blood is "true drink" (v.55). The Greek word that John used was not merely symbolic (phago means to "eat" or "devour"). He speaks of the reality of Jesus' flesh and blood in his Eucharistic presence. Through word and sacrament, Jesus continues to feed us spiritually, transforming and uniting us to him so that we can worthily enter God's eternal reign. John tells us that he said these things “while teaching in a synagogue in Capernaum” (Jn 6:59).
TO LOVE: Am I aware of Christ's true presence when I participate in the Eucharist?
TO SERVE: Risen Lord, feed me at your table of eternal life.
SATURDAY, APRIL 20, JOHN 6:60-69
Easter Weekday
(Acts 9:31-42; Psalm 116)
KEY VERSE: "The words that I have spoken to you are spirit and life" (John 6:63).
TO KNOW: Jesus' teaching that he was the "bread of life" (v.48) caused a division between those who had faith in him and those who did not. Some of Jesus’ disciples had misgivings about his teaching. Jesus did not retract his words but invited his followers to a deeper faith in this mystery, which they could only understand through God's grace. If people could not believe that he was God’s word became flesh (Jn 1:14), what would they think when he ascended to his Father in glory? Many of his disciples turned back and no longer followed him. Jesus then asked the Twelve if they too planned to leave him. Peter, the future leader of the Church, confessed his faith in the life-giving words of Jesus. There was no one else to whom he could go. The twelve apostles are mirrors of us ̶ ̶ flawed but graced human beings.
TO LOVE: Do my words bring others to faith or drive them away?
TO SERVE: Risen Lord, help me to believe your words of everlasting life.
Easter Weekday
(Acts 9:31-42; Psalm 116)
KEY VERSE: "The words that I have spoken to you are spirit and life" (John 6:63).
TO KNOW: Jesus' teaching that he was the "bread of life" (v.48) caused a division between those who had faith in him and those who did not. Some of Jesus’ disciples had misgivings about his teaching. Jesus did not retract his words but invited his followers to a deeper faith in this mystery, which they could only understand through God's grace. If people could not believe that he was God’s word became flesh (Jn 1:14), what would they think when he ascended to his Father in glory? Many of his disciples turned back and no longer followed him. Jesus then asked the Twelve if they too planned to leave him. Peter, the future leader of the Church, confessed his faith in the life-giving words of Jesus. There was no one else to whom he could go. The twelve apostles are mirrors of us ̶ ̶ flawed but graced human beings.
TO LOVE: Do my words bring others to faith or drive them away?
TO SERVE: Risen Lord, help me to believe your words of everlasting life.
FOURTH SUNDAY OF EASTER, GOOD SHEPHERD SUNDAY
SUNDAY, APRIL 21, JOHN 10:11-18
(Acts 4:8-12; Psalm 118; 1 John 3:1-2
KEY VERSE: "I am the good shepherd. A good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep" (John 10:11).
TO KNOW: Throughout the Old Testament, God's loving care for the people had been portrayed as a shepherd guiding the flock (Ps 23). King David was once a shepherd himself (1 Sam 16:11-12). The prophets Jeremiah and Ezekiel indicted Israel's blind leaders who looked out for their own interests rather than those of the people. God would appoint "one shepherd," like David, to lead them (Jer 23:1-4; Ez 34:23). Jesus is the "good shepherd" (Jn 10:11) who knows his sheep personally by name and protects them from harm. Jesus willingly laid down his life for the sake of the flock. No one could be hired to love that way. Jesus prayed that one day there would be "one flock, one shepherd" (v16) united in his saving love.
TO LOVE: Do I work for the unity of God's People?
TO SERVE: Risen Lord, I pray for our priests and bishops to be true shepherds of God's people.
NOTE: Good Shepherd Sunday
The Fourth Sunday of Easter is referred to as Good Shepherd Sunday. In John 21:15-18, Jesus makes Peter the chief shepherd of the flock. This day was designated in 1964 as the World Day of Prayer for Vocations, encouraging everyone to pray for vocations to the priesthood and the consecrated life. Pope Benedict XVI invited all the faithful to “cultivate an intimate relationship with Christ, Master and Pastor of His people, imitating Mary who guarded the divine mysteries in her heart and contemplated them assiduously." The Church's sanctity depends essentially on her union with Christ and her openness to the mystery of grace at work in the hearts of believers.
SUNDAY, APRIL 21, JOHN 10:11-18
(Acts 4:8-12; Psalm 118; 1 John 3:1-2
KEY VERSE: "I am the good shepherd. A good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep" (John 10:11).
TO KNOW: Throughout the Old Testament, God's loving care for the people had been portrayed as a shepherd guiding the flock (Ps 23). King David was once a shepherd himself (1 Sam 16:11-12). The prophets Jeremiah and Ezekiel indicted Israel's blind leaders who looked out for their own interests rather than those of the people. God would appoint "one shepherd," like David, to lead them (Jer 23:1-4; Ez 34:23). Jesus is the "good shepherd" (Jn 10:11) who knows his sheep personally by name and protects them from harm. Jesus willingly laid down his life for the sake of the flock. No one could be hired to love that way. Jesus prayed that one day there would be "one flock, one shepherd" (v16) united in his saving love.
TO LOVE: Do I work for the unity of God's People?
TO SERVE: Risen Lord, I pray for our priests and bishops to be true shepherds of God's people.
NOTE: Good Shepherd Sunday
The Fourth Sunday of Easter is referred to as Good Shepherd Sunday. In John 21:15-18, Jesus makes Peter the chief shepherd of the flock. This day was designated in 1964 as the World Day of Prayer for Vocations, encouraging everyone to pray for vocations to the priesthood and the consecrated life. Pope Benedict XVI invited all the faithful to “cultivate an intimate relationship with Christ, Master and Pastor of His people, imitating Mary who guarded the divine mysteries in her heart and contemplated them assiduously." The Church's sanctity depends essentially on her union with Christ and her openness to the mystery of grace at work in the hearts of believers.
MONDAY, APRIL 22, JOHN 10:1-10
Easter Weekday
(Acts 11:1-18; Psalm 42)
KEY VERSE: "I am the gate. Whoever enters by me will be saved and will come in and go out and find pasture" (John 10:9).
TO KNOW: The figure of God as a shepherd who guides and protects the flock was taken from Israel's pastoral life. Sheep, which belonged to various shepherds, were brought together in a sheepfold at night. At daybreak, the watchman would open the gate. The shepherd knew his own sheep and he would call each one by name as he led them out to pasture. The sheep recognized the shepherd's voice and would follow no one else. The shepherd would walk ahead of his flock as they followed him to a place where they would be safe from thieves who might "steal and slaughter and destroy" (John 10:10a). Jesus is the gateway for the sheep. Those who enter through him will be saved and have abundant life.
TO LOVE: Pray for Pope Francis, the shepherd of God's people.
TO SERVE: Risen Lord, help me to follow you as you guide me day by day.
Easter Weekday
(Acts 11:1-18; Psalm 42)
KEY VERSE: "I am the gate. Whoever enters by me will be saved and will come in and go out and find pasture" (John 10:9).
TO KNOW: The figure of God as a shepherd who guides and protects the flock was taken from Israel's pastoral life. Sheep, which belonged to various shepherds, were brought together in a sheepfold at night. At daybreak, the watchman would open the gate. The shepherd knew his own sheep and he would call each one by name as he led them out to pasture. The sheep recognized the shepherd's voice and would follow no one else. The shepherd would walk ahead of his flock as they followed him to a place where they would be safe from thieves who might "steal and slaughter and destroy" (John 10:10a). Jesus is the gateway for the sheep. Those who enter through him will be saved and have abundant life.
TO LOVE: Pray for Pope Francis, the shepherd of God's people.
TO SERVE: Risen Lord, help me to follow you as you guide me day by day.
PASSOVER BEGINS AT SUNSET
Passover (Hebrew, Pesach) is probably the best-known of the Jewish holidays, mostly because it ties in with the Last Supper, which was 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, mostly because it ties in with the Last Supper, which was 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.
EARTH DAY
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)
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)
TUESDAY, APRIL 23, JOHN 10:22-30
Easter Weekday
(Acts 11:19-26; Psalm 87)
KEY VERSE: "But you do not believe, because you are not among my sheep" (John 10:26).
TO KNOW: As a faithful Jew, Jesus went to the temple for the Feast of Dedication (Hanukkah). This feast commemorated the rededication of the temple by the Maccabees after its desecration in 164 BCE by the Syrian King Antiochus IV, Epiphanes (1 Mc 4:36-59). While in the temple, Jesus was confronted by those who demanded to know whether or not he claimed to be the Messiah. Jesus pointed to the works that he did as evidence that God had sent him. The words and works of Jesus were the words and works of God. The reason his adversaries did not recognize him was that they did not belong to his flock. Those who belonged to Jesus knew him and followed him. God gave these faithful ones to Jesus, the "good shepherd" (v.11), who kept careful watch over his own. No one could snatch them from his hand because he and the Father were one.
TO LOVE: Do I follow Christ where he leads?
TO SERVE: Risen Lord, help me to discern your voice from the voices of those who would lead me astray.
Easter Weekday
(Acts 11:19-26; Psalm 87)
KEY VERSE: "But you do not believe, because you are not among my sheep" (John 10:26).
TO KNOW: As a faithful Jew, Jesus went to the temple for the Feast of Dedication (Hanukkah). This feast commemorated the rededication of the temple by the Maccabees after its desecration in 164 BCE by the Syrian King Antiochus IV, Epiphanes (1 Mc 4:36-59). While in the temple, Jesus was confronted by those who demanded to know whether or not he claimed to be the Messiah. Jesus pointed to the works that he did as evidence that God had sent him. The words and works of Jesus were the words and works of God. The reason his adversaries did not recognize him was that they did not belong to his flock. Those who belonged to Jesus knew him and followed him. God gave these faithful ones to Jesus, the "good shepherd" (v.11), who kept careful watch over his own. No one could snatch them from his hand because he and the Father were one.
TO LOVE: Do I follow Christ where he leads?
TO SERVE: Risen Lord, help me to discern your voice from the voices of those who would lead me astray.
Optional Memorial of Saint George, martyr
The best-known story attached to Saint George is the Golden Legend in which he fought a dragon that lived in a lake near Silena, Libya. Whole armies had gone up against this fierce creature and had gone down in defeat. George made the sign of the cross, rode to battle against the serpent, and killed it with a single blow with his lance. Then, with a magnificent sermon, he converted the locals. He was given a large reward by the king, which he distributed to the poor. Due to his chivalrous behavior, devotion to Saint George became widespread in Europe. In the 15th century, his feast day was as popular as Christmas. The celebrated Knights of the Garter are Knights of the Order of Saint George. He is one of the Fourteen Holy Helpers.
The best-known story attached to Saint George is the Golden Legend in which he fought a dragon that lived in a lake near Silena, Libya. Whole armies had gone up against this fierce creature and had gone down in defeat. George made the sign of the cross, rode to battle against the serpent, and killed it with a single blow with his lance. Then, with a magnificent sermon, he converted the locals. He was given a large reward by the king, which he distributed to the poor. Due to his chivalrous behavior, devotion to Saint George became widespread in Europe. In the 15th century, his feast day was as popular as Christmas. The celebrated Knights of the Garter are Knights of the Order of Saint George. He is one of the Fourteen Holy Helpers.
Optional Memorial of Saint Adalbert, bishop and martyr
Adalbert was the Bishop of Prague in 983. A friend of Emperor Otto III, he encouraged the evangelization of the Magyars and worked alongside Saint Astricus. Opposed by the nobility in Prague, Adalbert withdrew to Rome and became a Benedictine; Pope John XV sent him back. Adalbert founded the monastery of Brevnov. Again, he met more opposition from the nobility and returned to Rome. There being no hope of his working in Prague, he was allowed to evangelize in Pomerania, Poland, Prussia, Hungary, and Russia. He and his fellow missionaries were martyred by Prussians near Koenigsberg or Danzig at the instigation of a pagan priest.
Adalbert was the Bishop of Prague in 983. A friend of Emperor Otto III, he encouraged the evangelization of the Magyars and worked alongside Saint Astricus. Opposed by the nobility in Prague, Adalbert withdrew to Rome and became a Benedictine; Pope John XV sent him back. Adalbert founded the monastery of Brevnov. Again, he met more opposition from the nobility and returned to Rome. There being no hope of his working in Prague, he was allowed to evangelize in Pomerania, Poland, Prussia, Hungary, and Russia. He and his fellow missionaries were martyred by Prussians near Koenigsberg or Danzig at the instigation of a pagan priest.
WEDNESDAY, APRIL 24, JOHN 12:44-50
Easter Weekday
(Acts 12:24 ̶ 13:5a; Psalm 67)
KEY VERSE: "Whoever believes in me believes not only in me but also in the one who sent me" (John 12:44).
TO KNOW: In the prologue to John's Gospel, Jesus was described as the "Word made flesh" (Jn 1:14). In Jesus' words and deeds, in his life, death, and resurrection, he was the fullness of divine revelation. Whoever saw Jesus saw God, and whoever heard Jesus heard God's own words. All who believe in Jesus' life-giving word must also believe in the one who sent him. Jesus did not speak on his authority but by God's command. The light of God's truth, which Jesus revealed, cast out the darkness of sin and ignorance in the world. Each individual is given the freedom to accept or reject this truth. Jesus did not come to condemn those who refused to believe in him (Jn 3:17); however, anyone who denied the truth would be judged by God's Word.
TO LOVE: Do I proclaim the word of God by my words and deeds?
TO SERVE: Risen Lord, help me to be a daily reader of your word.
Easter Weekday
(Acts 12:24 ̶ 13:5a; Psalm 67)
KEY VERSE: "Whoever believes in me believes not only in me but also in the one who sent me" (John 12:44).
TO KNOW: In the prologue to John's Gospel, Jesus was described as the "Word made flesh" (Jn 1:14). In Jesus' words and deeds, in his life, death, and resurrection, he was the fullness of divine revelation. Whoever saw Jesus saw God, and whoever heard Jesus heard God's own words. All who believe in Jesus' life-giving word must also believe in the one who sent him. Jesus did not speak on his authority but by God's command. The light of God's truth, which Jesus revealed, cast out the darkness of sin and ignorance in the world. Each individual is given the freedom to accept or reject this truth. Jesus did not come to condemn those who refused to believe in him (Jn 3:17); however, anyone who denied the truth would be judged by God's Word.
TO LOVE: Do I proclaim the word of God by my words and deeds?
TO SERVE: Risen Lord, help me to be a daily reader of your word.
Optional Memorial of Saint Fidelis of Sigmaringen, priest and martyr
Disgusted by the greed, corruption, and lack of interest in justice by his fellow lawyers, Mark Rey abandoned the law. He became a Franciscan friar with his brother George. Mark Rey changed his name to Fidelis and gave away his worldly wealth to poor people and to poor seminarians. Fidelis served his friary as guardian, and worked during epidemics, especially healing soldiers. He led a group of Capuchins to preach to Calvinists and followers of Zwingli, a theologian whose sermons began the Reformation in Switzerland. The success of Fidelis’ work and lack of violence suffered by his mission was attributed to his spending his nights in prayer. He was, however, eventually martyred for his preaching.
Disgusted by the greed, corruption, and lack of interest in justice by his fellow lawyers, Mark Rey abandoned the law. He became a Franciscan friar with his brother George. Mark Rey changed his name to Fidelis and gave away his worldly wealth to poor people and to poor seminarians. Fidelis served his friary as guardian, and worked during epidemics, especially healing soldiers. He led a group of Capuchins to preach to Calvinists and followers of Zwingli, a theologian whose sermons began the Reformation in Switzerland. The success of Fidelis’ work and lack of violence suffered by his mission was attributed to his spending his nights in prayer. He was, however, eventually martyred for his preaching.
FEAST OF SAINT MARK, EVANGELIST
THURSDAY, APRIL 25, MARK 16:15-20
(1 Peter 5:5b-14; Psalm 89)
KEY VERSE: "Go into the whole world and proclaim the gospel to every creature" (Mark 16:15).
TO KNOW: Under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit, Mark wrote what is believed to be the first Gospel. It is thought that Mark wrote from Rome during the persecution by Nero Caesar in the late 60's shortly before the destruction of Jerusalem (70 CE). Mark wrote to Gentile Christians to encourage them to endure their sufferings and urged them to continue to proclaim the Gospel of Jesus Christ. It is believed that Mark's gospel originally ended at Mk 16:8 with the women fleeing the empty tomb in fear. The concluding verses (9-20) were a later summary of other events and were not in any of the early manuscripts. This "longer ending" is a picture of the work committed to the Church by Jesus Christ. First, the Church has a preaching mission to tell the story of the good news of Jesus. Next, the Church has a healing task to bring health to the body and to the soul. Finally, the Church will never be left on its own to do its work. Christ works with and through the Church. But Mark's purpose in writing was complete; Jesus had been raised from the dead just as he told his followers. Mark wanted to challenge his readers to preach the gospel courageously with the power of Christ who was crucified and rose again.
TO LOVE: Is my life a "gospel" that others can read?
TO SERVE: Risen Lord, help me to be a messenger of good news wherever I go.
THURSDAY, APRIL 25, MARK 16:15-20
(1 Peter 5:5b-14; Psalm 89)
KEY VERSE: "Go into the whole world and proclaim the gospel to every creature" (Mark 16:15).
TO KNOW: Under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit, Mark wrote what is believed to be the first Gospel. It is thought that Mark wrote from Rome during the persecution by Nero Caesar in the late 60's shortly before the destruction of Jerusalem (70 CE). Mark wrote to Gentile Christians to encourage them to endure their sufferings and urged them to continue to proclaim the Gospel of Jesus Christ. It is believed that Mark's gospel originally ended at Mk 16:8 with the women fleeing the empty tomb in fear. The concluding verses (9-20) were a later summary of other events and were not in any of the early manuscripts. This "longer ending" is a picture of the work committed to the Church by Jesus Christ. First, the Church has a preaching mission to tell the story of the good news of Jesus. Next, the Church has a healing task to bring health to the body and to the soul. Finally, the Church will never be left on its own to do its work. Christ works with and through the Church. But Mark's purpose in writing was complete; Jesus had been raised from the dead just as he told his followers. Mark wanted to challenge his readers to preach the gospel courageously with the power of Christ who was crucified and rose again.
TO LOVE: Is my life a "gospel" that others can read?
TO SERVE: Risen Lord, help me to be a messenger of good news wherever I go.
FRIDAY, APRIL 26, JOHN 14:1-6
Easter Weekday
(Acts 13:26-33; Psalm 2)
KEY VERSE: "I am the way and the truth and the life" (John 14:6).
TO KNOW: As Jesus approached his impending death, he prepared his disciples for the work that he would hand over to them. He told them that it was necessary for him to go so that he could prepare a place for them. Jesus assured them that they would know the way to the place where he was going. His anxious disciples were troubled by Jesus' words, and Thomas plaintively asked, "How can we know the way?" (v.5). Jesus assured them that he was the "way" to God's "truth," which he revealed by his words and deeds. He was the bridge to the Father and to "life" eternal. Jesus likened heaven to a mansion in which there were many rooms. He promised his faithful followers that he would "return" and take them to live with him there (Greek, Parousia, the second coming).
TO LOVE: Is my life a light to show others the way to God's truth?
TO SERVE: Risen Lord, guide me to the Father by your eternal truth.
Easter Weekday
(Acts 13:26-33; Psalm 2)
KEY VERSE: "I am the way and the truth and the life" (John 14:6).
TO KNOW: As Jesus approached his impending death, he prepared his disciples for the work that he would hand over to them. He told them that it was necessary for him to go so that he could prepare a place for them. Jesus assured them that they would know the way to the place where he was going. His anxious disciples were troubled by Jesus' words, and Thomas plaintively asked, "How can we know the way?" (v.5). Jesus assured them that he was the "way" to God's "truth," which he revealed by his words and deeds. He was the bridge to the Father and to "life" eternal. Jesus likened heaven to a mansion in which there were many rooms. He promised his faithful followers that he would "return" and take them to live with him there (Greek, Parousia, the second coming).
TO LOVE: Is my life a light to show others the way to God's truth?
TO SERVE: Risen Lord, guide me to the Father by your eternal truth.
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. http://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
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. http://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
SATURDAY, APRIL 27, JOHN 14:7-14
Easter Weekday
(Acts 13:44-52; Psalm 98)
KEY VERSE: "Whoever has seen me has seen the Father" (John 14:9).
TO KNOW: Jesus came to reveal God the Father. His words and works testified to the life and truth that he shared with the Father. Philip asked for some manifestation (theophany) of God such as Moses experienced on Mount Sinai (Ex 33:18). Jesus said that if they understood who he was, they would "see" the Father in him. Although God is Spirit, Jesus is the living revelation of God the Father who acts in and through him. If his disciples could not believe Jesus' words, at least they could believe in the works he had done. Jesus assured his followers that if they had faith in him, they would accomplish even greater works. He promised to empower the Church to act in his name through the coming of the Holy Spirit.
TO LOVE: In what ways do I see Jesus working through me? Am I able to see him working with others?
TO SERVE: Risen Lord, help me to understand the Divine mystery you came to reveal.
Easter Weekday
(Acts 13:44-52; Psalm 98)
KEY VERSE: "Whoever has seen me has seen the Father" (John 14:9).
TO KNOW: Jesus came to reveal God the Father. His words and works testified to the life and truth that he shared with the Father. Philip asked for some manifestation (theophany) of God such as Moses experienced on Mount Sinai (Ex 33:18). Jesus said that if they understood who he was, they would "see" the Father in him. Although God is Spirit, Jesus is the living revelation of God the Father who acts in and through him. If his disciples could not believe Jesus' words, at least they could believe in the works he had done. Jesus assured his followers that if they had faith in him, they would accomplish even greater works. He promised to empower the Church to act in his name through the coming of the Holy Spirit.
TO LOVE: In what ways do I see Jesus working through me? Am I able to see him working with others?
TO SERVE: Risen Lord, help me to understand the Divine mystery you came to reveal.
FIFTH SUNDAY OF EASTER
SUNDAY, APRIL 28, JOHN 15:1-8
(Acts 9:26-31; Psalm 22; 1 John 3:18-24)
KEY VERSE: "I am the true vine, and my Father is the vinegrower" (John 15:1).
TO KNOW: Few cultivated crops are richer in symbolism in the bible than the vine. The prophet Isaiah used this metaphor when he spoke of Israel as a vineyard that had been nurtured and cared for by God, the vinedresser, yet failed to bear fruit. Jesus used the image of the vine and the branches to talk about the community he had founded. The vine and the branches need one another. Just as a branch gets its sap from the tree, so we derive our life from God. Jesus declared himself to be the true vine whose Father was the vinegrower. Jesus' Church would be the new Israel that would bear good fruit only when united to him. Withered branches, which separated themselves from the vine, would be cut off; they were only good for fuel for the fire. Good branches would be pruned in order to increase their yield. Jesus spoke this discourse at the Last Supper. The "fruit of the vine" that Jesus gave us is his life-giving presence in the saving cup that nourishes the faithful.
TO LOVE: Is my ministry in the Church fruitful or unproductive?
TO SERVE: Risen Lord, prune any dead wood in my life so I may eternally abide in you.
SUNDAY, APRIL 28, JOHN 15:1-8
(Acts 9:26-31; Psalm 22; 1 John 3:18-24)
KEY VERSE: "I am the true vine, and my Father is the vinegrower" (John 15:1).
TO KNOW: Few cultivated crops are richer in symbolism in the bible than the vine. The prophet Isaiah used this metaphor when he spoke of Israel as a vineyard that had been nurtured and cared for by God, the vinedresser, yet failed to bear fruit. Jesus used the image of the vine and the branches to talk about the community he had founded. The vine and the branches need one another. Just as a branch gets its sap from the tree, so we derive our life from God. Jesus declared himself to be the true vine whose Father was the vinegrower. Jesus' Church would be the new Israel that would bear good fruit only when united to him. Withered branches, which separated themselves from the vine, would be cut off; they were only good for fuel for the fire. Good branches would be pruned in order to increase their yield. Jesus spoke this discourse at the Last Supper. The "fruit of the vine" that Jesus gave us is his life-giving presence in the saving cup that nourishes the faithful.
TO LOVE: Is my ministry in the Church fruitful or unproductive?
TO SERVE: Risen Lord, prune any dead wood in my life so I may eternally abide in you.