Catholic Caucus: Daily Mass Readings, 05-12-08, Sts. Nereus & Achilleus, St. Pancras

USCCB.org/New American Bible ^ | 05-12-08 | New American Bible

[Salvation]

May 12, 2008

Monday of the Sixth Week in Ordinary Time

Reading 1 Responsorial Psalm Gospel

Reading 1
Jas 1:1-11

James, a servant of God and of the Lord Jesus Christ,
to the twelve tribes in the dispersion, greetings.

Consider it all joy, my brothers and sisters,
when you encounter various trials,
for you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance.
And let perseverance be perfect,
so that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing.
But if any of you lacks wisdom,
he should ask God who gives to all generously and ungrudgingly,
and he will be given it.
But he should ask in faith, not doubting,
for the one who doubts is like a wave of the sea
that is driven and tossed about by the wind.
For that person must not suppose that he will
receive anything from the Lord,
since he is a man of two minds, unstable in all his ways.

The brother in lowly circumstances
should take pride in high standing,
and the rich one in his lowliness,
for he will pass away “like the flower of the field.”
For the sun comes up with its scorching heat and dries up the grass,
its flower droops, and the beauty of its appearance vanishes.
So will the rich person fade away in the midst of his pursuits.

Responsorial Psalm
119:67, 68, 71, 72, 75, 76

R. (77a) Be kind to me, Lord, and I shall live.
Before I was afflicted I went astray,
but now I hold to your promise.
R. Be kind to me, Lord, and I shall live.
You are good and bountiful;
teach me your statutes.
R. Be kind to me, Lord, and I shall live.
It is good for me that I have been afflicted,
that I may learn your statutes.
R. Be kind to me, Lord, and I shall live.
The law of your mouth is to me more precious
than thousands of gold and silver pieces.
R. Be kind to me, Lord, and I shall live.
I know, O LORD, that your ordinances are just,
and in your faithfulness you have afflicted me.
R. Be kind to me, Lord, and I shall live.
Let your kindness comfort me
according to your promise to your servants.
R. Be kind to me, Lord, and I shall live.

Gospel
Mk 8:11-13

The Pharisees came forward and began to argue with Jesus,
seeking from him a sign from heaven to test him.
He sighed from the depth of his spirit and said,
“Why does this generation seek a sign?
Amen, I say to you, no sign will be given to this generation.”
Then he left them, got into the boat again,
and went off to the other shore.

[Salvation]

For your reading, reflection, faith-sharing, comments, questions, discussion.

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Alleluia Ping!

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The Lives of Saints Nereus and Achilleus [May 12]

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St. Pancras, martyr

[Salvation]

From: James 1:1-11

Address and Greetings

---

[1] James, a servant of God and of the Lord Jesus Christ, To the twelve tribes
in the Dispersion: Greeting.

The Value of Suffering

---

[2] Count it all joy, my brethren, when you meet various trials, [3] for you know
that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness. [4] And let steadfastness
have its full effect, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing.

[5] If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God, who gives to all men generously
and without reproaching, and it will be given him. [6] But let him ask in faith, with
no doubting, for he who doubts is like a wave of the sea that is driven and tossed
by the wind. [7,8] For that person must not suppose that a double-minded man,
unstable in all his ways, will receive anything from the Lord.

[9] Let the lowly brother boast in his exaltation, [10] and the rich in his humiliation,
because like the flower of the grass he will pass away. [11] For the sun rises
with its scorching heat and withers with the grass; its flower falls, and its beauty
perishes. So will the rich man fade away in the midst of his pursuits.

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Commentary:

1. The author of the letter is St. James, who was in charge of the Christian com-
munity of Jerusalem for a number of years (cf. Acts 12:17; 15:13; 21:19), a close
relative of our Lord....

James introduces himself as a “servant of God and of the Lord Jesus Christ”.
The title of “servant of God” was given to people in the Old Testament who were
outstandingly faithful to the Lord (cf. Psalm 34:22), such as Moses, David, the
prophets; the title applies in a special way to the Messiah, the “Servant of Yahweh”
(cf. Isaiah 42-53). In the New Testament it is applied to all Christians, particularly
the Apostles (cf. Acts 4:29; 16-17; Revelation 1:1). At the start of their letters,
St. Peter, St. Paul and St. Jude sometimes describe themselves in this way to
make the point that they are mere messengers of divine truth.

The term “Lord”—’Kyrios’ in Greek—which is applied to Jesus Christ is used in the
second-century B.C. Septuagint Greek version of the Old Testament to translate
the name of Yahweh. St. Paul also uses it frequently. It is an explicit profession
of faith in the divinity of Jesus Christ, part of the Christian creed from the very
beginning.

The letter is addressed “to the twelve tribes in the Dispersion” or Diaspora. The
term “diaspora” originally meant Jews domiciled outside Palestine. Here it refers
to Christians—the twelve tribes of the new, true Israel—who were to be found all
over the Greco-Roman world. It is very likely that it refers particularly to Jewish
converts to Christianity.

The salutation used by James—which the New Vulgate translates as “health” and
the RSV gives as “greeting”—literally means “rejoice”. It was the customary form
of greeting in the Greek of the time. The same word is used in verse 2, perhaps
to make it quite clear what kind of joy he means.

2-12. In these opening verses, St. James points out how Christians should be-
have in the face of trials and sufferings: they should accept them with joy (verses
2-4); if they find it difficult to see why they are experiencing difficulties, they should
ask God to give them the necessary wisdom (verses 5-8); the poor and well-to-do
should have the same attitude to things (verses 9-11); finally, he reminds them
that the reward God promises to those who endure trials is blessedness (verse
12). The whole passage clearly reflects the Beatitudes of the Sermon on the
Mount (cf. Matthew 5:1-12).

The problem of the suffering experienced by the righteous in contrast with the
prosperity of the impious in this life is one often dealt with in the Old Testament,
particularly in the Psalms and in the Book of Job. But it was not fully and finally
solved until the coming of Jesus Christ, who by His teaching and His life revealed
the redemptive value of suffering, and the great reward which Heaven holds. “It is
through Christ and in Christ that light is thrown on the riddle of suffering and death
which, apart from His Gospel, overwhelms us” (Vatican II, “Gaudium Et Spes”,
22).

Human suffering has a redemptive value when borne in union with Christ: “The
Gospel of suffering”, Pope John Paul II says, “is being written unceasingly, and
it speaks unceasingly with the words of this strange paradox: the springs of
divine power gush forth precisely in the midst of human weakness. Those who
share in the sufferings of Christ preserve in their own sufferings a very special
“particle of the infinite treasure” of the world’s Redemption, and can share this
treasure with others” (”Salvifici Doloris”, 27).

2-4. The “trials” referred to hear do not seem to be persecutions, but rather
everyday adversity—perhaps poverty especially (cf. 1:9; 2:5-7)—which tests the
Christian’s faith: for this reason the word is sometimes translated as “tempta-
tions”. These trials act as a test of perseverance in the pursuit of good and help
the soul to grow in patience, a much needed virtue: “There is nothing more
pleasing to God”, St. Alphonsus comments, “than to see a soul who patiently
and serenely bears whatever crosses it is sent; this is how love is made, by
putting lover and loved one on the same level [...]. A soul who loves Jesus
Christ desires to be treated the way Christ was treated—desires to be poor,
despised and humiliated (”The Love of Jesus Christ”, Chapter 5).

Patience, steadfastness, is quite different from mere passive endurance of suf-
fering; it comes from the virtue of fortitude and leads one to accept suffering as
something sent by God. It is grounded on hope (cf. Thessalonians 1:3) and on
faith put to the test (James 1:3); it is very fruitful (cf. Luke 8:15), particularly in
terms of Christian joy (cf. Acts 5:41), and implies sustained effort to the point
of perfection.

5-8. The wisdom St. James refers to views everything in the light of Christ
crucified—the wisdom of the cross in the phrase of St. Paul (cf. 1 Corinthians
1:18 ff), which is the only type of insight that enables one to be joyful in the midst
of adversity and suffering, because it allows one to see these things as an oppor-
tunity to share in our Lord’s suffering. When we find it difficult to view things in
this light, we need to ask God to give us wisdom.

Our prayer for wisdom should be a prayer full of faith: “Whatever you ask for in
prayer, you will receive, if you have faith” (Matthew 21:22). The “St. Pius V
Catechism” reminds us that “believe, we must, both in order to pray, and that
we be not wanting in that faith which renders prayer fruitful. For it is faith that
leads to prayer, and it is prayer that, by removing all doubts, gives strength and
firmness to faith. This is the meaning of the exhortation of St. Ignatius to those
who approach God in prayer: `Be not of doubtful mind in prayer; blessed is he
who had not doubted’ (”Ep. X Ad Heronem”). Therefore, to obtain from God what
we ask, faith and an assured confidence are of first importance, according to the
admonition of St. James: “Let him ask in faith, with no doubting” (James 1:6)”
(IV, 7, 3).

5. “Who gives to all men generously and without reproaching”: God always listens
to our requests, and He answers them without humiliating us, without reminding
us of our unworthiness. This should help us address the Lord with complete con-
fidence, not being inhibited by our shortcomings and sins. “You are so conscious
of your misery”, Monsignor Escriva says, that you acknowledge yourself unworthy
to be heard by God. But, what about the merits of Mary? And the wounds of your
Lord? And...are you not a son of God? Besides, He listens to you ‘”quoniam
bonus..., quoniam in saeculum misericordia ejus”’: because He is good, because
His mercy endure forever’” (”The Way”, 93).

7-8. “A double-minded man”: an indecisive soul who is unsure whether to trust
in the efficacy of prayer or not. St. Bede comments: “A double-minded person
is one who kneels down to ask God for things and beseeches Him to grant them,
and yet feels so accused by his conscience that he distrusts his ability to pray.
A double- minded person is also one who, when he does good deeds, looks for
external approval rather than interior reward. The wise man is right when he says,
`Woe to the sinner who walks along two ways!” (Sirach 2:12) [...]. People of this
type are inconstant in all their ways, for they are very easily overpowered by
adverse circumstance and entrapped by favorable ones, with the result that they
stray fromthe true path” (”Super Iac. Expositio, ad loc.”).

9-11. Apparently poverty was one of the hardest trials these Christians were ex-
periencing. The Semitic mind was fond of expressing itself in terms of contrasts,
and this may make it difficult for us to grasp the full thrust of St. James’ maxims:
to do so we need to draw on our general knowledge of Christian doctrine. God
and the Church have a predilection for the poor, and Christ describes the poor
as blessed (cf. Matthew 5:3 and paragraph): this teaching applies in the first
instance to those who experience material need, but material need is a symbol
of the truly poor, that is, those who, independently of whether they have many
or few material possessions, realize that they are in dire need of God (cf. note
on Luke 6:24). In principle, it may be easier for a materially poor person to feel
in need of God, whereas someone who is well off needs to be detached from
possessions in order to trust fully in God.

The sacred writer does not require people who have possessions to give them
up: what they have to do is to realize that material possessions are transitory,
impermanent things to be used in the service of others and of society, and not
just for oneself.

*********************************************************************************************
Source: “The Navarre Bible: Text and Commentaries”. Biblical text from the
Revised Standard Version and New Vulgate. Commentaries by members of
the Faculty of Theology, University of Navarre, Spain.

Published by Four Courts Press, Kill Lane, Blackrock, Co. Dublin, Ireland, and
by Scepter Publishers in the United States.

[Salvation]

From: Mark 8:11-13

The Leaven of the Pharisees

---

[11] The Pharisees came and began to argue with Him (Jesus), seeking from
Him a sign from Heaven, to test Him. [12] And He sighed deeply in His spirit,
and said, “Why does this generation seek a sign? Truly, I say to you, no sign
shall be given to this generation.” [13] And He left them, and getting into the
boat again He departed to the other side.

*********************************************************************************************
Commentary:

11-12. Jesus expresses the deep sadness He feels at the hardheartedness of
the Pharisees: they remain blind and unbelieving despite the light shining around
them and the wonderful things Christ is doing. If someone rejects the miracles
God has offered him, it is useless for him to demand new signs, because he
asks for them not because he is sincerely seeking the truth but out of ill will: he
is trying to tempt God (cf. Luke 16:27-31). Requiring new miracles before one
will believe, not accepting those already performed in the history of salvation,
amounts to asking God to account for Himself before a human tribunal (cf. Ro-
mans 2:1-11). Unfortunately, many people do act like this. But God can only
be found if we have an open and humble attitude to Him. “I have no need of
miracles: there are more than enough for me in the Gospel. But I do need to
see you fulfilling your duty and responding to grace” (St J. Escriva, “The Way”,
362).

12. The generation to which Jesus refers does not include all the people of His
time, but only the Pharisees and their followers (cf. Mark 8:38; 9:19; Matthew
11:16), who do not want to see in Jesus’ miracles the sign and guarantee of His
messianic mission and dignity: they even attribute His miracles to Satan
(Matthew 12:28).

If they do not accept the signs offered to them, they will be given no other sign
of the spectacular kind they seek, for the Kingdom of God does not come noisily
(Luke 17:20-21) and even if it did they in their twisted way would manage to mis-
interpret the event (Luke 16:31). According to Matthew 12:38-42 and Luke
11:29-32, they are offered yet another sign—the miracle of Jonah, the sign of the
death and resurrection of Christ; but not even this remarkable proof will lead the
Pharisees to shed their pride.

*********************************************************************************************
Source: “The Navarre Bible: Text and Commentaries”. Biblical text from the
Revised Standard Version and New Vulgate. Commentaries by members of
the Faculty of Theology, University of Navarre, Spain.

Published by Four Courts Press, Kill Lane, Blackrock, Co. Dublin, Ireland, and
by Scepter Publishers in the United States.

[Ciexyz]

Happy Mothers Day to you and everyone reading the thread.

[Ciexyz]

Faith sharing bump.

[Salvation]

May Devotion: Blessed Virgin Mary

Since the 16th century Catholic piety has assigned entire months to special devotions. Toward the end of the eighteenth century a zealous Jesuit priest, Father Lalomia, started among the students of the Roman college of his Society the practice of dedicating May to Our Lady. The devotion, which others had promoted in a small way, soon spread to other Jesuit Colleges and to the entire Latin church and since that time it has been a regular feature of Catholic life.

INVOCATIONS

Thou who wast a virgin before thy delivery, pray for us. Hail Mary, etc.
Thou who wast a virgin in thy delivery, pray for us. Hail Mary, etc.
Thou who wast a virgin after thy delivery, pray for us. Hail Mary, etc.

My Mother, deliver me from mortal sin.
Hail Mary (three times).

Mother of love, of sorrow and of mercy, pray for us.

Remember, O Virgin Mother of God, when thou shalt stand before the face of the Lord, that thou speak favorable things in our behalf and that He may turn away His indignation from us.
Roman Missal

Thou art my Mother, O Virgin Mary: keep me safe lest I ever offend thy dear Son, and obtain for me the grace to please Him always and in all things.

FOR THE HELP OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN MARY

May we be assisted, we beseech Thee, 0 Lord, by the worshipful intercession of Thy glorious Mother, the ever-Virgin Mary; that we, who have been enriched by her perpetual blessings, may be delivered from all dangers, and through her loving kindness made to be of one heart and mind: who livest and reignest world without end. Amen.
Roman Missal

THE SALVE REGINA

Hail, holy Queen, Mother of mercy, hail, our life, our sweetness, and our hope! To thee do we cry, poor banished children of Eve! To thee do we send up our sighs, mourning and weeping in this vale of tears! Turn then, most gracious advocate, thine eyes of mercy towards us; and after this, our exile, show unto us the blessed fruit of thy womb, Jesus! O clement, O loving, O sweet Virgin Mary!
Roman Breviary

PRAYER TO THE BLESSED VIRGIN MARY

O blessed Virgin Mary, who can worthily repay thee thy just dues of praise and thanksgiving, thou who by the wondrous assent of thy will didst rescue a fallen world? What songs of praise can our weak human nature recite in thy honor, since it is by thy intervention alone that it has found
the way to restoration? Accept, then, such poor thanks as we have here to offer, though they be unequal to thy merits; and, receiving our vows, obtain by thy prayers the remission of our offenses. Carry thou our prayers within the sanctuary of the heavenly audience, and bring forth from it the antidote of our reconciliation. May the sins we bring before Almighty God through thee, become pardonable through thee; may what we ask for with sure confidence, through thee be granted. Take our offering, grant us our requests, obtain pardon for what we fear, for thou art the sole hope of sinners. Through thee we hope for the remission of our sins, and in thee, 0 blessed Lady, is our hope of reward. Holy Mary, succour the miserable, help the fainthearted, comfort the sorrowful, pray for thy people, plead for the clergy, intercede for all women consecrated to God; may all who keep thy holy commemoration feel now thy help and protection. Be thou ever ready to assist us when we pray, and bring back to us the answers to our prayers. Make it thy continual care to pray for the people of God, thou who, blessed by God, didst merit to bear the Redeemer of the world, who liveth and reigneth, world without end. Amen.
Saint Augustine

PETITION TO MARY

Most holy Virgin Immaculate, my Mother Mary, to thee who art the Mother of my Lord, the queen of the universe, the advocate, the hope, the refuge of sinners, I who am the most miserable of all sinners, have recourse this day. I venerate thee, great queen, and I thank thee for the many graces thou hast bestowed upon me even unto this day; in particular for having delivered me from the hell which I have so often deserved by my sins. I love thee, most dear Lady; and for the love I bear thee, I promise to serve thee willingly for ever and to do what I can to make thee loved by others also. I place in thee all my hopes for salvation; accept me as thy servant and shelter me under thy mantle, thou who art the Mother of mercy. And since thou art so powerful with God, deliver me from all temptations, or at least obtain for me the strength to overcome them until death. From thee I implore a true love for Jesus Christ. Through thee I hope to die a holy death. My dear Mother, by the love thou bearest to Almighty God, I pray thee to assist me always, but most of all at the last moment of my life. Forsake me not then, until thou shalt see me safe in heaven, there to bless thee and sing of thy mercies through all eternity. Such is my hope. Amen.
Saint Alphonsus Liguori

Magnificat Prayer My being proclaims the greatness of the Lord, my spirit finds joy in God my savior, For he has looked upon his servant in her lowliness; all ages to come shall call me blessed. God who is mighty has done great things for me, holy is his name; His mercy is from age to age on those who fear him. He has shown might with his arm; he has confused the proud in their inmost thoughts. He has deposed the mighty from their thrones and raised the lowly to high places. The hungry he has given every good thing, while the rich he has sent empty away. He has upheld Israel his servant, ever mindful of his mercy; Even as he promised our fathers, promised Abraham and his descendants forever. (Lk 1:46-55)

Seen above is the Blessed Virgin Mary, portrayed as Our Lady of Perpetual Help.
It was she who was chosen by God, to provide His Son with His Sacred Humanity.
She did so in humble and total cooperation with the Holy Spirit and the Divine will of the Holy Trinity; providing God's Son with the Blood He shed for us on the Cross.

TO MARY, REFUGE OF SINNERS
Hail, most gracious Mother of mercy, hail, Mary, for whom we fondly yearn, through whom we obtain forgiveness! Who would not love thee? Thou art our light in uncertainty, our comfort in sorrow, our solace in the time of trial, our refuge from every peril and temptation. Thou art our sure hope of salvation, second only to thy only-begotten Son; blessed are they who love thee, our Lady! Incline, I beseech thee, thy ears of pity to the entreaties of this thy servant, a miserable sinner; dissipate the darkness of my sins by the bright beams of thy holiness, in order that I may be acceptable in thy sight.

FOR THE GRACE OF LOVE
O Mary, my dear Mother, how much I love thee! And yet in reality how little! Thou dost teach me what I ought to know, for thou teachest me what Jesus is to me and what I ought to be for Jesus. Dearly beloved Mother, how close to God thou art, and how utterly filled with Him! In the measure that we know God, we remind ourselves of thee. Mother of God, obtain for me the grace of loving my Jesus; obtain for me the grace of loving thee!
Cardinal Merry del Val

TO THE BLESSED VIRGIN MARY FOR MAY

O most august and blessed Virgin Mary! Holy Mother of God! glorious Queen of heaven and earth! powerful protectress of those who love thee, and unfailing advocate of all who invoke thee! look down, I beseech thee, from thy throne of glory on thy devoted child; accept the solemn offering I present thee of this month, specially dedicated to thee, and receive my ardent, humble desire, that by my love and fervor I could worthily honor thee, who, next to God, art deserving of all honor. Receive me, 0 Mother of Mercy, among thy best beloved children; extend to me thy maternal tenderness and solicitude; obtain for me a place in the Heart of Jesus, and a special share in the gifts of His grace. 0 deign, I beseech thee, to recognize my claims on thy protection, to watch over my spiritual and temporal interests, as well as those of all who are dear to me; to infuse into my soul the spirit of Christ, and to teach me thyself to become meek, humble, charitable, patient, and submissive to the will of God.

May my heart bum with the love of thy Divine Son, and of thee, His blessed Mother, not for a month alone, but for time and eternity; may I thirst for the promotion of His honor and thine, and contribute, as far as I can, to its extension. Receive me, 0 Mary, the refuge of sinners! Grant me a Mother's blessing and a Mother's care, now, and at the hour of my death. Amen.

TO OUR LADY

Saint John Vianney, better known as the Cure of Ars, when asked how long he had loved Mary, said: "I loved her almost before I could know her." In this prayer he expresses that love.
O thou most holy virgin Mary, who dost evermore stand before the most holy Trinity, and to whom it is granted at all times to pray for us to thy most beloved Son; pray for me in all my necessities; help me, combat for me, and obtain for me the pardon of all my sins. Help me especially at my last hour; and when I can no longer give any sign of the use of reason, then do thou encourage me, make the sign of the cross for me, and fight for me against the enemy. Make in my name a profession of faith; favor me with a testimony of my salvation, and never let me despair of the mercy of God. Help me to overthrow the wicked enemy. When I can no longer say: "Jesus, Mary, and Joseph, I place my soul in your hands," do thou say it for me; when I can no longer hear human words of consolation, do thou comfort me. Leave me not before I have been judged; and if I have to expiate my sins in purgatory, oh! pray for me earnestly; and admonish my friends to procure for me a speedy enjoyment of the blessed sight of God. Lessen my sufferings, deliver me speedily, and lead my soul into heaven with thee: that, united with all the elect, I may there bless and praise my God and thee for all eternity. Amen.
Saint John Vianney

ACT OF REPARATION

O blessed Virgin, Mother of God, look down in mercy from heaven, where thou art enthroned as Queen, upon me, a miserable sinner, thine unworthy servant. Although I know full well my own unworthiness, yet in order to atone for the offenses that are done to thee by impious and blasphemous
tongues, from the depths of my heart I praise and extol thee as the purest, the fairest, the holiest creature of all God's handiwork. I bless thy holy name, I praise thine exalted privilege of being truly Mother of God, ever virgin, conceived without stain of sin, co-redemptrix of the human race. I bless the Eternal Father who chose thee in an especial way for His daughter; I bless the Word Incarnate who took upon Himself our nature in thy bosom and so made thee His Mother; I bless the Holy Spirit who took thee as His bride. All honor, praise and thanksgiving to the ever-blessed Trinity, who predestined thee and loved thee so exceedingly from all eternity as to exalt thee above all creatures to the most sublime heights. 0 Virgin, holy and merciful, obtain for all who offend thee the grace of repentance, and graciously accept this poor act of homage from me thy servant, obtaining likewise for me from thy divine Son the pardon and remission of all my sins. Amen.

Prayer Source: Prayer Book, The by Reverend John P. O'Connell, M.A., S.T.D. and Jex Martin, M.A., The Catholic Press, Inc., Chicago, Illinois, 1954

 

Memorare of the Blessed Virgin Mary

 

Remember O Most Gracious Virgin Mary!

That never was it known
That anyone who fled to thy protection,
Implored thy help or sought thy intercession
Was left unaided.

Inspired by this confidence, I fly unto Thee!
O Virgin of virgins, My Mother!

To Thee I come before Thee I stand,
Sinful and Sorrowful,
Oh Mother of the Word Incarnate,
Despise not my petitions, but in thy mercy,
Hear and answer me.

Amen

May Devotion: Blessed Virgin Mary

[Salvation]

Prayer Intentions of the Holy Father for May.

 

MAY 2008
General:
That Christians may use literature, art and the media to greater advantage to favour a culture which defends and promotes the values of the human person
Mission:
That just as she accompanied the Apostles in the early stages of the Church, may the Blessed Virgin Mary, Star of Evangelization and Queen of Apostles, continue to guide missionaries throughout the world with maternal affection.

[Salvation]

Scripture readings taken from the Jerusalem Bible, published and copyright © 1966, 1967 and 1968 by Darton, Longman & Todd

Mass Readings

First reading

James 1:1 - 11 ©

From James, servant of God and of the Lord Jesus Christ. Greetings to the twelve tribes of the Dispersion. My brothers, you will always have your trials but, when they come, try to treat them as a happy privilege; you understand that your faith is only put to the test to make you patient, but patience too is to have its practical results so that you will become fully-developed, complete, with nothing missing. If there is any one of you who needs wisdom, he must ask God, who gives to all freely and ungrudgingly; it will be given to him. But he must ask with faith, and no trace of doubt, because a person who has doubts is like the waves thrown up in the sea when the wind drives. That sort of person, in two minds, wavering between going different ways, must not expect that the Lord will give him anything. It is right for the poor brother to be proud of his high rank, and the rich one to be thankful that he has been humbled, because riches last no longer than the flowers in the grass; the scorching sun comes up, and the grass withers, the flower falls; what looked so beautiful now disappears. It is the same with the rich man: his business goes on; he himself perishes.

Psalm or canticle: Psalm 118

Gospel	Mark 8:11 - 13 ©
The Pharisees came up and started a discussion with Jesus; they demanded of him a sign from heaven, to test him. And with a sigh that came straight from the heart he said, ‘Why does this generation demand a sign? I tell you solemnly, no sign shall be given to this generation.’ And leaving them again and re-embarking he went away to the opposite shore.

[Salvation]

Office of Readings and Invitatory Psalm

Office of Readings

If this is the first Hour that you are reciting today, you should precede it with the Invitatory Psalm.

O God, come to my aid.
O Lord, make haste to help me.
Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit,
 as it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be,
 world without end.
Amen. Alleluia.

---

A suitable hymn may be inserted at this point.

Psalm 30 (31)

Trustful prayer in time of adversity

In you, Lord, I put my trust: may I never be put to shame.
 In your justice, set me free,
Turn your ear to me,
 make haste to rescue me.
Be my rampart, my fortification;
 keep me safe.

For you are my strength and my refuge:
 you will lead me out to the pastures,
 for your own name’s sake.
You will lead me out of the trap that they laid for me –
 for you are my strength.

Into your hands I commend my spirit:
 you have redeemed me, Lord God of truth.
You hate those who run after vain nothings;
 but I put my trust in the Lord.
I will rejoice and be glad in your kindness,
 for you have looked on me, lowly as I am.
You saw when my soul was in need:
 you did not leave me locked in the grip of the enemy,
 but set my feet on free and open ground.

Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit,
 as it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be,
 world without end.
Amen.

---

Psalm 30 (31)

Take pity on me, Lord, for I am troubled:
 my eyes grow weak with sorrow,
 the very centre of my being is disturbed.
For my life is worn out with distress,
 my years with groaning;
my strength becomes weakness,
 my bones melt away.

I am a scandal and a disgrace,
 so many are my enemies;
to my friends and neighbours,
 I am a thing to fear.
When they see me in the street,
 they run from me.
I have vanished from their minds as though I were dead,
 or like a pot that is broken.
I know this – for I have heard the scolding of the crowd.
 There is terror all around,
for when they come together against me
 it is my life they are resolved to take.

But I put my trust in you, Lord;
 I say: “You are my God,
 my fate is in your hands”.
Tear me from the grip of my enemies,
 from those who hound me;
let your face shine upon your servant,
 in your kindness, save me.

Let me not be put to shame,
 for I have called on you;
let the wicked be shamed instead,
 let them go down into the underworld and silence.
Let their lying mouths be dumb,
 that now speak against the righteous,
 in their pride and arrogance and contempt.

Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit,
 as it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be,
 world without end.
Amen.

---

Psalm 30 (31)

How very many are the pleasures, Lord,
 that you have stored up for those who fear you.
You have made these things ready for those who trust in you,
 to give them in the sight of all men.
Far away from the plottings of men
 you hide them in your secret place.
You keep them safe in your dwelling-place
 far from lying tongues.

Blessed be the Lord,
 for he has shown me his wonderful kindness
 within the fortified city.
In my terror, I said
 “I am cut off from your sight”;
but you heard the voice of my prayer
 when I called to you.

Love the Lord, all his chosen ones.
The Lord keeps his faithful ones safe,
 heaps rich revenge on the arrogant.
Be brave, let your hearts be strong,
 all who trust in the Lord.

Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit,
 as it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be,
 world without end.
Amen.

---

Reading

Proverbs 3:1 - 20 ©

My son, do not forget my teaching,  let your heart keep my principles, for these will give you lengthier days,  longer years of life, and greater happiness. Let kindliness and loyalty never leave you:  tie them round your neck,  write them on the tablet of your heart. So shall you enjoy favour and good repute  in the sight of God and man. Trust wholeheartedly in the Lord,  put no faith in your own perception; in every course you take, have him in mind:  he will see that your paths are smooth. Do not think of yourself as wise,  fear the Lord and turn your back on evil: health-giving, this, to your body,  relief to your bones. Honour the Lord with what goods you have  and with the first-fruits of all your returns; then your barns will be filled with wheat,  your vats overflowing with new wine. My son, do not scorn correction from the Lord,  do not resent his rebuke; for the Lord reproves the man he loves,  as a father checks a well-loved son. Happy the man who discovers wisdom,  the man who gains discernment: gaining her is more rewarding than silver,  more profitable than gold. She is beyond the price of pearls,  nothing you could covet is her equal. In her right hand is length of days;  in her left hand, riches and honour. Her ways are delightful ways,  her paths all lead to contentment. She is a tree of life for those who hold her fast,  those who cling to her live happy lives. By wisdom, the Lord set the earth on its foundations,  by discernment, he fixed the heavens firm. Through his knowledge the depths were carved out,  and the clouds rain down the dew.

---

Reading	From a sermon by Saint Bernard, abbot
On the search for wisdom
Let us work for the food which does not perish – our salvation. Let us work in the vineyard of the Lord to earn our daily wage in the wisdom which says: Those who work in me will not sin. Christ tells us: The field is the world. Let us work in it and dig up wisdom, its hidden treasure, a treasure we all look for and want to obtain. If you are looking for it, really look. Be converted and come. Converted from what? From your own wilfulness. “But”, you may say, “if I do not find wisdom in my own will, where shall I find it? My soul eagerly desires it. And I will not be satisfied when I find it, if it is not a generous amount, a full measure, overflowing into my hands”. You are right, for blessed is the man who finds wisdom and is full of prudence. Look for wisdom while it can still be found. Call for it while it is near. Do you want to know how near it is? The word is near you, in your heart and on your lips, provided that you seek it honestly. Insofar as you find wisdom in your heart, prudence will flow from your lips, but be careful that it flows from and not away from them, or that you do not vomit it up. If you have found wisdom, you have found honey. But do not eat so much that you become too full and bring it all up. Eat so that you are always hungry. Wisdom says: Those who eat me continue to hunger. Do not think you have too much of it, but do not eat too much or you will throw it up. If you do, what you seem to have will be taken away from you, because you gave up searching too soon. While wisdom is near and while it can be found, look for it and ask for its help. Solomon says: A man who eats too much honey does himself no good; similarly, the man who seeks his own glorification will be crushed by that same renown. Happy is the man who has found wisdom. Even more happy is the man who lives in wisdom, for he perceives its abundance. There are three ways for wisdom or prudence to abound in you: if you confess your sins, if you give thanks and praise, and if your speech is edifying. Man believes with his heart and so he is justified. He confesses with his lips and so he is saved. In the beginning of his speech the just man is his own accuser, next he gives glory to God, and thirdly, if his wisdom extends that far, he edifies his neighbour.

---

Concluding Prayer

Lord, it is your desire to dwell in humble and sincere hearts.
 Give us your grace and make us
 a fit habitation for you.

Through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son,
 who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit,
 God for ever and ever.
Amen.

[Salvation]

American Catholic’s Saint of the Day

May 12, 2008

Sts. Nereus and Achilleus

(1st century)

Devotion to these two saints goes back to the fourth century, though almost nothing is known of their lives. They were praetorian soldiers of the Roman army, became Christians and were removed to the island of Terracina, where they were martyred. Their bodies were buried in a family vault, later known as the cemetery of Domitilla. Excavations by De Rossi in 1896 resulted in the discovery of their empty tomb in the underground church built by Pope Siricius in 390.

Two hundred years after their death, Pope Gregory the Great delivered his 28th homily on the occasion of their feast. “These saints, before whom we are assembled, despised the world and trampled it under their feet when peace, riches and health gave it charms.”

Comment:

As in the case of many early martyrs, the Church clings to its memories though the events are clouded in the mists of history. It is a heartening thing for all Christians to know that they have a noble heritage. Our brothers and sisters in Christ have stood in the same world in which we live—militarist, materialist, cruel and cynical—yet transfigured from within by the presence of the Living One. Our own courage is enlivened by the heroes and heroines who have gone before us marked by the sign of faith and the wounds of Christ.

Quote:

Pope Damasus wrote an epitaph for Nereus and Achilleus in the fourth century. The text is known from travelers who read it while the slab was still entire, but the broken fragments found by De Rossi are sufficient to identify it: “The martyrs Nereus and Achilleus had enrolled themselves in the army and exercised the cruel office of carrying out the orders of the tyrant, being ever ready, through the constraint of fear, to obey his will. O miracle of faith! Suddenly they cease from their fury, they become converted, they fly from the camp of their wicked leader; they throw away their shields, their armor and their blood-stained javelins. Confessing the faith of Christ, they rejoice to bear testimony to its triumph. Learn now from the words of Damasus what great things the glory of Christ can accomplish.”

[trisham]

Let kindliness and loyalty never leave you:

tie them round your neck,

write them on the tablet of your heart.

****************

Amen.

[Salvation]

I would agree completely. Many of the posters hehre on FR could also take heed.

[Salvation]

Oops

here on FR

[Salvation]

The Angelus 

The Angel of the Lord declared to Mary: 
And she conceived of the Holy Spirit. 

Hail Mary, full of grace, the Lord is with thee; blessed art thou among women and blessed is the fruit of thy womb, Jesus. Holy Mary, Mother of God, pray for us sinners, now and at the hour of
our death. Amen. 

Behold the handmaid of the Lord: Be it done unto me according to Thy word. 

Hail Mary . . . 

And the Word was made Flesh: And dwelt among us. 

Hail Mary . . . 

Pray for us, O Holy Mother of God, that we may be made worthy of the promises of Christ. 

Let us pray: 

Pour forth, we beseech Thee, O Lord, Thy grace into our hearts; that we, to whom the incarnation of Christ, Thy Son, was made known by the message of an angel, may by His Passion and Cross be brought to the glory of His Resurrection, through the same Christ Our Lord.

Amen. 

[Salvation]

Monday, May 12, 2008
St. Leopold Mandic, Capuchin, Priest (Memorial)

First Reading: Psalm: Gospel:

James 1:1-11 Psalm 119:67-68, 71-72, 75-76 Mark 8:11-13 Let us meditate today on the condition of our soul. Are we making a sincere effort to rectify our intentions, to sanctify our daily responsibilities? There are things we fail to remember, not because we have short memories but because we are short of love. The person in love does not forget! -- St Teresa of Avila

[Salvation]

Catholic Culture

Daily Readings (on USCCB site):
» May 12, 2008
(will open a new window)

Collect: Father, we honor Saints Nereus and Achilleus for their courage in dying to profess their faith in Christ. May we experience the help of their prayers at the throne of your mercy. Grant this through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.

« May 12, 2008 »

Optional Memorial of Sts. Nereus and Achilleus, martyrs; Optional Memorial of St. Pancras, martyr
Old Calendar: Saints Nereus, Achilleus, Domitilla and Pancras

 

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Nereus and Achilleus were Roman soldiers in the household of Flavia Domitilla. They were instructed and converted by St. Peter. These two soldiers in turn inspired St. Domitilla to consecrate her virginity to God. Thereupon, Aurelianus, the fiancee of Domitilla, reported all three to the Roman authorities as being Christians. They were martyred out of hatred for Christianity. Pancras, a noble Phrygian youth, came to Rome at the age of fourteen, and was martyred in 275 because he refused to offer sacrifices to the pagan gods.

According to the 1962 Missal of Bl. John XXIII the Extraordinary Form of the Roman Rite, today is also the feast of St. Domitilla.

---

St. Nereus, Achilleus and Domitilla
It was under the persecution of Domitian, during which John the Evangelist was condemned to be burned alive in the cauldron of boiling oil, that Flavia Domitilla was honored with banishment and death for the sake of our Redeemer, whom she had chosen for her Spouse. She was of the imperial family, being a niece of Flavius Clemens, who adorned the consular dignity by martyrdom. She was one of the Christians belonging to the court of the Emperor Domitian, who show us how rapidly the religion of the poor and humble made its way to the highest classes of Roman life. A few years previous to this, St Paul sent to the Christians of Philippi the greetings of the Christians of Nero's palace. There is still extant, not far from Rome, on the Ardeatine Way, the magnificent subterranean cemetery which Flavia Domitilla ordered to be dug on her praedium, and in which were buried the two martyrs, Nereus and Achilleus, whom the Church honors today together with the noble virgin who owes her crown to them. Nereus and Achilleus were in Domitilla's service. Hearing them one day speaking of the merit of virginity, she there and then bade farewell to all worldly pleasures, and aspired to the honor of being the Spouse of Christ. She received the veil of consecrated virgins from the hands of Pope St Clement: Nereus and Achilleus had been baptized by St Peter himself.

The bodies of these three Saints reposed, for several centuries, in the Basilica, called the Fasciola, on the Appian Way; and we have a Homily which St Gregory the Great preached in this Church on their feast. The holy Pontiff dwelt on the vanity of the earth's goods; he encouraged his audience to despise them by the example of the three martyrs whose relics lay under the very altar around which they were that day assembled. "These Saints," said he, "before whose tomb we are now standing, trampled with contempt of soul on the world and its flowers. Life was then long, health was uninterrupted, riches were abundant, parents were blessed with many children; and yet, though the world was so flourishing in itself, it had long been a withered thing in their hearts."

Excerpted from The Liturgical Year, Abbot Gueranger O.S.B.

Symbols: Two posts and lions; fire; two swords.

Things to Do:

• Even though Nereus and Achilleus died for Christ about 1800 years ago, Christians are still suffering and dying for their faith in this century. Offer a prayer for the persecuted Church and for the modern martyrs.

• These two Roman soldiers threw away their "shields, their armour, and their blood-stained javelins" and gave their lives for Christ. Examine how much you are willing to sacrifice for the love of Christ and offer up a small sacrifice today.

---

St. Pancras
Pancratius was the descendant of a noble Phrygian family. As a youth of fourteen, he came to Rome while Diocletian and Maximian were in power (about 304). He was baptized by the Pope and given instructions in the Christian religion. Arrested for his action, he steadfastly refused to sacrifice to the pagan gods and was condemned to death. With manly courage, he bared his neck for the sword and received the martyr's crown. During the night his body was removed by the pious matron Octavilla, anointed with sweet smelling balsam and interred on the Via Aurelia.

Pancratius is the patron saint of fidelity to oaths. The basilica that Pope Symmachus erected over his remains about the year 500 later became a station church (since 1798 his relics have been lost). On the first Sunday after Easter the saint exhorted the catechumens gathered at his station church to remain loyal to their baptismal vows. The saint warns us to proceed slowly and prudently before taking an oath or vow. But once our word is given we must remain true to our pledge, true unto death itself, whether it concerns baptismal vows, ordination vows, profession vows, or marriage vows.

Excerpted from The Church's Year of Grace, Pius Parsch.

Symbols: Sword and stone; armour; Saracen crown under his feet.

Patron: Against false witness; against perjury; children; cramps; headaches; fidelity to oaths; treaties.

Things to Do:

• Make sure that you have at least one crucifix in your home as a reminder of the great mystery of salvation.

• Renew your baptismal and vocational vows today, recalling their importance and grace in your life.

[Salvation]

I noticed that I misspelled one of the names in the title. Could you please change it to
Achilleus

Thanks in advance.

[Gamecock]

Well what do you know!

When in London I often see the St. Pancras tube station. Always wondered who that was and now I know.

You can just learn so much on FR.

Pardon me for barging in, I'll go away now.

[Salvation]

Lauds -- Morning Prayer

Morning Prayer (Lauds)

If this is the first Hour that you are reciting today, you should precede it with the Invitatory Psalm.

O God, come to my aid.
O Lord, make haste to help me.
Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit,
 as it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be,
 world without end.
Amen. Alleluia.

---

A suitable hymn may be inserted at this point.

Psalm 41 (42)

Longing for the Lord and his temple

Like a deer that longs for springs of water,
 so my soul longs for you, O God.
My soul thirsts for God, the living God:
 when shall I come and stand before the face of God?

My tears are my food, by day and by night,
 and everyone asks, “where is your God?”.
I remember how I went up to your glorious dwelling-place
 and into the house of God:
 the memory melts my soul.
The sound of joy and thanksgiving,
 the crowds at the festival.

Why are you so sad, my soul,
 and anxious within me?
Put your hope in the Lord, I will praise him still,
 my saviour and my God.

My soul is sad within me,
 and so I will remember you
 in the lands of Jordan and Hermon,
 on the mountain of Mizar.
Deep calls to deep
 in your rushing waters:
and all your torrents, all your waves
 have flowed over me.

By day the Lord sends his kindness upon me;
 by night his song is with me,
 a prayer to the God of my life.
I will say to God:
 “You are my support, why have you forgotten me?
 Why must I go in mourning, while the enemy persecutes me?”.
As my bones break,
 my persecutors deride me,
 all the time saying “where is your God?”.

Why are you so sad, my soul,
 and anxious within me?
Put your hope in the Lord, I will praise him still,
 my saviour and my God.

Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit,
 as it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be,
 world without end.
Amen.

---

Canticle	Ecclesiasticus 36
A prayer for Jerusalem, the holy city
God of all, have mercy on us, take notice of us, and show us the light of your mercies. Make the nations fear you, who have not sought you out,  make them know that there is no God except you,  let them tell of your wonders. Lift up your hand over foreign nations, that they may see your power –  for just as in their sight you have been sanctified in us,  so in our sight you will be magnified in them. Lift up your hand so that they may know, as we know,  that there is no God but you, Lord. Bring forth new signs and repeat your wonders;  glorify your hand, show the strength of your arm. Gather together all the tribes of Jacob,  give them back the inheritance they had from the beginning. Take pity on your people, over whom we invoke your name,  and on Israel, whom you have made equal to your firstborn. Take pity on the city you have sanctified,  Jerusalem, the place of your rest. Fill Sion with your majesty;  fill your temple with your glory. Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit,  as it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be,  world without end. Amen.

---

Psalm 18 (19)

Praise of God the creator

The skies tell the story of the glory of God,
 the firmament proclaims the work of his hands;
day pours out the news to day,
 night passes to night the knowledge.

Not a speech, not a word,
 not a voice goes unheard.
Their sound is spread throughout the earth,
 their message to all the corners of the world.

At the ends of the earth he has set up
 a dwelling place for the sun.
Like a bridegroom leaving his chamber,
 it rejoices like an athlete at the race to be run.
It appears at the edge of the sky,
 runs its course to the sky’s furthest edge.
Nothing can hide from its heat.

Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit,
 as it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be,
 world without end.
Amen.

---

Short reading	Jeremiah 15:16 ©
When your words came, I devoured them: your word was my delight and the joy of my heart; for I was called by your name, Lord, God of hosts.

---

Canticle	Benedictus
The Messiah and his forerunner
Blessed be the Lord, the God of Israel, for he has come to his people and brought about their redemption. He has raised up the sign of salvation in the house of his servant David, as he promised through the mouth of the holy ones, his prophets through the ages: to rescue us from our enemies and all who hate us, to take pity on our fathers, to remember his holy covenant and the oath he swore to Abraham our father, that he would give himself to us, that we could serve him without fear – freed from the hands of our enemies – in uprightness and holiness before him, for all of our days. And you, child, will be called the prophet of the Most High: for you will go before the face of the Lord to prepare his path, to let his people know their salvation, so that their sins may be forgiven. Through the bottomless mercy of our God, one born on high will visit us to give light to those who walk in darkness, who live in the shadow of death; to lead our feet in the path of peace. Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit,  as it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be,  world without end. Amen.

---

Prayers and Intercessions

?

Our Saviour has made us into a royal priesthood offering acceptable sacrifices to God. Let us thank him and ask him: - Lord, help us to serve God. Christ, eternal Priest, you conferred your holy priesthood on your people. Grant that we may ceaselessly offer acceptable sacrifices to God. Be generous with the gifts of your Spirit: patience, kindness and gentleness. Give us the gift of loving you, so that we may possess you, for you yourself are love. Give us the gift of doing good, so that we may praise you simply by living. Grant that we may seek whatever is best for our brethren and ease their path to salvation.

Our Father, who art in Heaven,
 hallowed be thy name.
Thy kingdom come,
 thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven.
Give us this day our daily bread,
 and forgive us our trespasses
 as we forgive those that trespass against us,
and lead us not into temptation,
 but deliver us from evil.

Almighty Lord and God, you have brought us to the start of this day.
 By your power keep us safe so that today, at least, we may not sin,
 directing our thoughts, words and actions rightly according to your law.

Through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son,
 who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit,
 God for ever and ever.
Amen.

---

May the Lord bless us and keep us from all harm; and may he lead us to eternal life.

A M E N

[TotusTuus]

Good to see you back! Hope all went well and that your recuperation is on the fast track!

These readings should help;)

[Salvation]

I can now bear 100% weight on the replaced hip so can climb the stairs (only 2 times a day right now) to the computer. Physical therapy is coming 2 times a week, so I find myself pretty busy.

[Salvation]

Vultus Christi

May 12, 2008

Seven Rosary Mysteries of the Holy Spirit

Drawing upon the traditional mysteries of the rosary — Joyful, Sorrowful and Glorious, and the new mysteries of Light proposed by Pope John Paul II — it becomes possible to pray through seven mysteries that, in a special way, reveal the presence and work of the Holy Spirit. I find it practical to use my Seven Dolours Rosary, with its "seven times seven" series of beads for this persevering invocation of the Holy Spirit through Mary.

1. The Annunciation, the “Proto-Pentecost” in which the Virgin is overshadowed by the Holy Spirit (cf. Lk 1:35). Ask for the Gift of Wisdom.

2. The Visitation in which Elizabeth, “filled with the Holy Spirit” (Lk 1:42), greets the Mother of her Lord. Ask for the Gift of Understanding.

3. The Baptism of Jesus, at which the Holy Spirit descended upon him “in bodily form, as a dove” (Lk 3:22). Ask for the Gift of Counsel.

4. The Wedding Feast at Cana (Jn 2:1-11) at which, in response to the intervention of his Mother, Jesus provides wine in abundance prefiguring the outpouring of the Holy Spirit. Ask for the Gift of Fortitude.

5. The Death of Jesus Crucified who, “bowing his head, handed over his spirit” (Jn 19:30). Ask for the Gift of Knowledge.

6. The Resurrection of Jesus who, appearing to the disciples “on the evening of that day, the first day of the week” (Jn 20:19), “breathed on them, and said to them, ‘Receive the Holy Spirit’” (Jn 20:22). Ask for the Gift of Piety.

7. The Descent of the Holy Spirit “when the day of Pentecost had come” (Ac 2:1). Ask for the Gift of Holy Fear.

[Salvation]

Regnum Christi

Loving Christ for Who He Is
May 12, 2008

Truly I tell you, no sign will be given to this generation.

Monday of the Sixth Week in Ordinary Time
Father Jeffrey Bowker, LC

Mark 8: 11-13
The Pharisees came and began to argue with him, asking him for a sign from heaven, to test him. And he sighed deeply in his spirit and said, "Why does this generation ask for a sign? Truly I tell you, no sign will be given to this generation." And he left them, and getting into the boat again, he went across to the other side.

Introductory Prayer: Lord, I can be so cold to your salvific presence as I hurry about living the moment and becoming so sufficient unto myself. There is little wonder that I find it hard to bring myself to prayer—to use faith to know you, divine love to live in you, and theological hope to trust in you. I approach you now, wanting only to be a more faithful disciple of your Kingdom.

Petition: Lord, grant me to seek you out in this prayer today with a faith that will console your heart and permit me to mature in my commitment to you.

1. Sending Christ away
G. K. Chesterton once asserted, “The Christian ideal has not been tried and found wanting; it has been found difficult and left untried.” Jesus truly loves us and would never refuse a humble soul the true goods he needs for fulfillment and salvation. If our wants, like those of the Pharisees, end up leaving God silent and our spiritual life cold, it may be a call for us to purify our hearts of the remaining dregs of our self-centeredness. We should carefully avoid the attitudes and words that repel Christ. Christ will not let himself be loved for who he is not, and he will not indulge the desires we have for who we are not. We can want our happiness to be many things, but Christ wants us to accept that his will is the heart of our fulfillment.

2. Prayer Is My Daily Breath of Air for the Soul
Jesus converses with our souls in a language that flows from supernatural attitudes of faith, hope and love. He will remain silent, however, if we drag him down to the small, narrow framework of our reason and calculations—wanting to “figure it out for ourselves” before we will act. Jesus does not want to be Superman, who comes into our lives only when things are really bad and all is lost. Rather, Christ intervenes because he wants a life of communion and grace day after day, sharing his life with each and every soul. He wants our living in fidelity and childlike trust to be like breathing the air.

3. The Signs That Bring Christ to Us
Christ did give us sure signs of his daily presence in our lives. The first is the sign of the cross. Only faith will unlock its mystery and bring us to the encounter between our sin and God’s mercy. Sin is at the heart of the worst that can go wrong with our life; the sign of the Crucified One is its cure. Faith will permit us, as it did the good thief, to see Christ’s love at the center of the universe and the world being drawn towards it as if into a vortex. Another sign he left us is the Eucharist. It is the most powerful sign because it contains the author of the sign himself. Christ humbles himself to stay with us at all costs. Under the appearance of bread and wine, he reveals what he wants to be for our souls. Under the veil of the sacrament, we learn to encounter Christ personally as pure love. “On the night he was betrayed he showed the depth of his love…” Let these signs be the “love language” by which we talk to Christ in the way he wants to be known, loved, and adored.

Conversation with Christ: Christ, let my prideful demands melt away before a mature encounter with your divine love. Keep my immaturity from impeding the expansion of your Kingdom; rather, let me humbly accept my need to change the way I relate to your true plan for my life.

Resolution: I will spend some time today acknowledging and thanking Jesus for the signs he has given me to know, love and serve him better in my life.

[Salvation]

Vespers -- Evening Prayer

Vespers (Evening Prayer)

O God, come to my aid.
O Lord, make haste to help me.
Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit,
 as it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be,
 world without end.
Amen. Alleluia.

---

A suitable hymn may be inserted at this point.

Psalm 44 (45)

The wedding of the King

My heart cries out on a joyful theme:
 I will tell my poem to the king,
 my tongue like the pen of the swiftest scribe.

You have been given more than human beauty,
 and grace is poured out upon your lips,
 so that God has blessed you for ever.

Strap your sword to your side, mighty one,
 in all your greatness and splendour.
In your splendour go forth, mount your chariot,
 on behalf of truth, kindness and justice.
Let your right hand show you marvels,
 let your arrows be sharp against the hearts of the king’s enemies
 – the peoples will fall before you.

Your throne is firm, O God, from age to age,
 your royal sceptre is a sceptre of justice.
You love uprightness, hate injustice
 – for God, your God has anointed you
 with the oil of gladness, above all your companions.

Myrrh and aloes and cassia anoint your garments.
From ivory palaces the sound of harps delights you.
In your retinue go the daughters of kings.
At your right hand, the queen is adorned with gold of Ophir.

Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit,
 as it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be,
 world without end.
Amen.

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Psalm 44 (45)

The King's bride

Listen, my daughter, and understand;
 turn your ears to what I have to say.
Forget your people, forget your father’s house,
 and the king will desire you for your beauty.
 He is your lord, so worship him.
The daughters of Tyre will bring you gifts;
 the richest of your subjects will beg you to look on them.

How great is the king’s daughter, within the palace!
 She is clothed in woven gold.
She will be taken to the king in coloured garments,
 her maidens will escort her to your presence.
In gladness and rejoicing they are brought
 and led to the house of the king.

Instead of your fathers you will have sons:
 you will make them rulers over all the world.
I will remember your name
 from generation to generation.
And so your people will do you honour
 for ever and for ever.

Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit,
 as it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be,
 world without end.
Amen.

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Canticle	Ephesians 1
God the Saviour
Blessed be God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us, in Christ, with every spiritual blessing in heaven. In love, he chose us before the creation of the world, to be holy and spotless in his sight. He predestined us to be his adopted children through Jesus Christ, simply because it pleased him to do so. This he did for the praise of the glory of his grace, of his free gift of us in his Beloved, in whose blood we have gained redemption, and the forgiveness of our sins. This he did according to the riches of his grace, which he gave us in abundance, with all wisdom and discernment, revealing to us the mysteries of his will, because it pleased him to do so. In this action he has planned, in the fulfilment of time, to bring all things together in Christ, from the heavens and from the earth. Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit,  as it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be,  world without end. Amen.

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Short reading	1 Thessalonians 2:13 ©
We constantly thank God for you because as soon as you heard the message that we brought you as God’s message, you accepted it for what it really is, God’s message and not some human thinking; and it is still a living power among you who believe it.

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Canticle	Magnificat
My soul rejoices in the Lord
My soul proclaims the greatness of the Lord,  and my spirit rejoices in God, my salvation. For he has shown me such favour –  me, his lowly handmaiden. Now all generations will call me blessed,  because the mighty one has done great things for me. His name is holy,  his mercy lasts for generation after generation  for those who revere him. He has put forth his strength:  he has scattered the proud and conceited,  torn princes from their thrones;  but lifted up the lowly. He has filled the hungry with good things;  the rich he has sent away empty. He has come to the help of his servant Israel,  he has remembered his mercy as he promised to our fathers,  to Abraham and his children for ever. Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit,  as it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be,  world without end. Amen.

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Prayers and Intercessions

?

Let us praise Christ, who loves and cares for his Church. Let us call on him trustingly, saying: - Lord, grant the prayers of your people. Lord Jesus, bring all men to salvation and lead them to recognise your truth. Watch over our Pope N. and our Bishop N., and give them the support of your strength. Take care of those who long for justice: let them pass their lives in happiness and safety. Lord, be the refuge of the poor and their help in tribulation. To the dead to whom in this life you gave the honour of the priesthood grant the gift of celebrating your glory for ever in heaven.

Our Father, who art in Heaven,
 hallowed be thy name.
Thy kingdom come,
 thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven.
Give us this day our daily bread,
 and forgive us our trespasses
 as we forgive those that trespass against us,
and lead us not into temptation,
 but deliver us from evil.

Almighty God, who gave your unworthy servants the strength for today’s work,
 accept our evening sacrifice of praise
 as thanks for the gifts we have received from you.

Through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son,
 who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit,
 God for ever and ever.
Amen.

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May the Lord bless us and keep us from all harm; and may he lead us to eternal life.

A M E N

[Salvation]

The Word Among Us

Monday, May 12, 2008 Meditation James 1:1-11 If you have paid attention to popular culture, you may have noticed that “self-help” is still in style. And it’s easy to see why. When we are filled with doubts and fears, we turn to experts. We want advice about our careers, our finances, our families—but we want to be able to fix the problem ourselves. While some of the advice we find out there may be foolish, some can be very helpful. But what would James have to say about this way of resolving our doubts? Surely he wouldn’t condemn us for trying to take responsibility for our lives! We need to use our minds to reason things out, and there is plenty of useful material available to us. Hopefully, we would also discuss our concerns with trustworthy people before making an important decision. Surely God wants us to use our own common sense as well. However, there is a point at which we have to rely on faith and move forward, even if our plans are not yet fully formed. That’s not a bad thing at all, because faith can actually be much stronger than reason. It’s like a power switch, because when it’s turned on, God can activate the Holy Spirit within us. He can bring us supernatural wisdom and, most importantly, the “peace of God that surpasses all understanding” to keep us from caving in to our fears (Philippians 4:7). How blessed we are that the Spirit helps us in our weakness (Romans 8:26)! When we don’t know which way to go, we can rely on him. What decision are you facing right now? Maybe you have obtained all the information and counsel you can, and you’re just as unsure as before. It’s time to release your fears into the hands of Jesus. Call on the Holy Spirit to give you his guidance—and his calming presence. Who knows? When you are resting in his embrace and your mind is free of stress, the answer you need may just pop into your head! The easiest “self-help” you can ever receive is from Jesus. His advice for you is simple: “Be still and confess that I am God!” (Psalm 46:11). “Lord, I believe in you. Help my unbelief! Send your Spirit to reassure and console me. Come, Lord, and wipe away my doubts with your merciful love.” Psalm 119:67-68,71-72,75-76; Mark 8:11-13

[Salvation]

One Bread, One Body

One Bread, One Body

<< Monday, May 12, 2008 >>

Sts. Nereus & Achilleus St. Pancras Saint of the Day

James 1:1-11
View Readings

Psalm 119:67-68, 71-72, 75-76

Mark 8:11-13

DYSFUNCTIONAL?

"To the twelve tribes in the dispersion, James, a servant of God and of the Lord Jesus Christ, sends greeting." —James 1:1

 

The book of James is written to the twelve tribes in the dispersion. This refers to the Jewish people scattered throughout the world because of oppression and to the Christians scattered because of persecution. The term "dispersion" implies violence, brokenness, pain, isolation, and the breakdown of community. The conditions of "the dispersion" would be described today as "dysfunctional." We could even say that the book of James is written to those living in dysfunctional situations.

The first thing James has to say to the dispersed and/or dysfunctional is: "Count it pure joy when you are involved in every sort of trial" (Jas 1:2). When those in a dysfunctional environment decide to throw a "pity-party" and give in to self-pity, they become even more dysfunctional. Instead, if we rejoice in the Lord, even in our trials (see Phil 4:4), He will turn them to the good (see Rm 8:28). Our trials will not destroy us, but lead us to maturity and holiness (see Jas 1:4; 1 Cor 10:13).

Read the book of James while asking for wisdom (see Jas 1:5) about how to deal with a dysfunctional situation. You will see the light, be filled with hope, and be empowered for action.

 

Prayer: Father, because of sin I live in a dysfunctional world. By Your salvation, I am made whole. I rejoice in You!

Promise: "Let Your kindness comfort me according to Your promise to Your servants." —Ps 119:76

Praise: St. Pancras suffered the loss of his parents, then at age fourteen suffered the loss of his life for love of God.

[Salvation]

Compline -- Night Prayer

Compline (Night Prayer)

O God, come to my aid.
O Lord, make haste to help me.
Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit,
 as it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be,
 world without end.
Amen. Alleluia.

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This is an excellent moment for an examination of conscience. In a communal celebration of Compline, one of the penitential acts given in the Missal may be recited.

A suitable hymn may be inserted at this point.

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Psalm 85 (86)

A poor man's prayer in time of trouble

Lord God, you are full of mercies, patient and true.

Turn your ear to me, Lord, and hear me,
 for I am poor and destitute.
Keep my life safe, for I am faithful;
 O God, save your servant, who trusts in you.

Take pity upon me, O Lord,
 for I call to you all the day long.
Make your servant’s heart glad,
 for to you, O Lord, I have raised it.
For you, Lord, are gentle and mild:
 you are kind to all those who call on you.

Let your ears hear my prayer, O Lord!
 Turn to the voice of my pleading!
In my time of trouble I call on you,
 for you, O Lord, will hear me.

No other god is like you, O Lord,
 and nothing compares with your works.
All people – all nations you made –
 will come and worship before you;
 they will give glory to your name.
For you are great, you work wonders:
 you alone are God.

O Lord, teach me your paths,
 and I will come to your truth.
Make my heart simple and guileless,
 so that it honours your name.
I will proclaim you, Lord my God,
 and give you praise with all my heart.
I will give glory to your name for ever,
 for your great kindness is upon me:
 you have rescued me from the deepest depths.

O God, the proud rise against me,
 in the meetings of the powerful they seek my life:
 they do not keep you in their sight.
And you, Lord, are a God of compassion,
 full of mercies, patient and true.
Look upon me, have mercy upon me,
 give your strength and protection to your servant
 your servant, the child of your handmaid.

Give me a sign of your goodness,
 let my enemies see it and be confounded;
because you, O Lord, have helped me and given me comfort.

Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit,
 as it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be,
 world without end.
Amen.

Lord God, you are full of mercies, patient and true.

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Reading	1 Thessalonians 5:9-10
God chose that we should receive salvation through our Lord Jesus Christ, who died for us; so that, asleep or awake, we should still live with him.

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Short Responsory	?
Into your hands, Lord, I commend my spirit. - Into your hands, Lord, I commend my spirit. You have redeemed us, Lord, God of faithfulness. - Into your hands, Lord, I commend my spirit. Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit. - Into your hands, Lord, I commend my spirit.

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Canticle	Nunc Dimittis
Keep us safe, Lord, while we are awake, and guard us as we sleep, so that we can keep watch with Christ and rest in peace.
Now, Master, you let your servant go in peace.  You have fulfilled your promise. My own eyes have seen your salvation,  which you have prepared in the sight of all peoples. A light to bring the Gentiles from darkness;  the glory of your people Israel. Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit,  as it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be,  world without end. Amen.
Keep us safe, Lord, while we are awake, and guard us as we sleep, so that we can keep watch with Christ and rest in peace.

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Prayer
Let us pray. Give our bodies rest, Lord, to restore them; and let the seeds sown by our labours today grow and yield an eternal harvest. Through Christ our Lord, Amen.

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May the almighty Lord grant us a quiet night and a perfect end.

A M E N

An antiphon to Our Lady should be recited here.