30 April 2012: Memorial -- St Pius V, pope

A Dominican, his pontificate was among the most glorious in the 16th century. He enforced decrees of the Council of Trent, published the Roman Catechism; and revised the Missal and Breviary. (Fr James Socias, ‘et al’ [Eds], “Daily Roman Missal”, 1989, p1516) It was during his pontificate that the celebrated victory of Lepanto (1571) was won against the Turks and conferred the title, ‘Mary, Help of Christians’. (Fr Charles Belmonte, “Aba Ginoong Maria”, 1990, p175) As a result of this victory he ordered the feast of the Holy Rosary to be observed on the first Sunday of October. (Rev Hugo Hoever, SOCist, PhD, “Lives of the Saints”, p172) In 1573, Pope Gregory XIII ordered that the same event be solemnized under the title of “Our Lady of Victory”. (Rev Joseph A Viano, SSP, “Two Months with Mary”, 1984, p49) ‘The Pope of the Rosary’ Pius V was born Antonio Ghislieri, and he sat upon the Chair of St Peter from 1566 till 1572. He is especially known as ‘the Pope of the Rosary’ by reason of the impulse he gave through his example and teaching to the spread of this devotion, so dear to the heart of the Christian people ... Dearly beloved, the truest and most sincere wish I can offer you is only this: “Turn yourselves into saints, make yourselves holy soon”, and I repeat the words of St Paul to the Thessalonians: “May the God of peace make you perfect in holiness. May he preserve you whole and entire, spirit, soul, and body irreproachable at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ.” (1 Thes 5:23) Let us be glad to live in these times of ours, and let us courageously commit ourselves to the design which Providence is mysteriously accomplishing ... John XXIII said that “the surpassing personage that was St Pius V is linked with great trials that the Church had to bear in times much more difficult than ours.” St Pius teaches us as well to have recourse to Mary Most Holy in our difficulties, for she is our heavenly Mother. She has overcome every error and every heresy. Let us pray to her always especially with the Holy Rosary so that our sole and supreme ideal may ever be the salvation of souls. Ref: Cf “Prayers and Devotions from Pope John Paul II”, 1984, p175 Jesus appears to Thomas After eight days, again his disciples were within, and Thomas was with them. (Jn 20:26) It was because Thomas was there, as the Gospel expressly mentions, that our Lord especially came. Why? That he might convert this unbelieving apostle, and bring back a lost sheep into the path of life. How good was our Lord! He took the first step towards the sinner. If Thomas had been left to himself, what would have become of him? He had already persisted for eight days in his unbelief. We may reasonably presume that he would have continued and be lost for all eternity. It is a remarkable circumstance that our Lord would only appear to Thomas in the presence of the other disciples. This was to give Thomas an occasion to repair before them all the scandal and sorrow he had caused. The words of God are perfect. He bestowed on the apostle the grace of a sincere conversion. By his providence he also gave the means to make it entire and exemplary. If we have scandalized or wounded anybody by word or deed, seize the first occasion which Providence gives for reparation. If it ought to be public because the fault has been public, make it heartily, humbly and sincerely. We will not lose the good opinion of others. To acknowledge we were in error yesterday shows we are wiser today. (Proverb) Our Lord enables Thomas to do this without spoiling his reputation. Jesus came, the doors being shut, and stood in their midst. (Jn 20:26) The circumstance mentioned in the Gospel -- the doors being shut -- contains a mystery and a valuable lesson. To tell our neighbor’s faults only to those who have the right to hear them. Nor to reprove anyone publicly except before those who witnessed his fault. Jesus showed himself to Thomas only before those whom he had scandalized and grieved by his unbelief. Do we abide by these rules of justice? Ref: Cf "Practical Meditations" by a Father of the Society of Jesus, 1964, pp234-6 ... Christian family customs The homes of the early Christians did not differ outwardly from any other. Parents passed on the Faith to their children who in turn did likewise. Thus, the family became the main ground for nurturing Christian faith and morality. Christian homes being steeped in love were havens of peace amidst errors from without. What parents taught their children came with the naturalness of life itself, and so the family thus fulfilled its mission of education. St John Chrysostom gave the following advice to Christian couples -- “Show your wife you appreciate her company a lot and that you prefer to be at home because she is there. Show her a preference even above the children she has given you; love them because of her ... Pray all together ... Learn the fear of God; everything else will flow from this like water from a fountain and your house will be filled with bounty.” (cf St John Chrysostom, “Twentieth homily, Letter to the Ephesians”) Sometimes responsibility for bringing Christianity into the family falls on a son or daughter: they attract other brothers and sisters to the Faith; then perhaps their parents, who in turn bring the uncles and aunts ... even the godparents end up being involved. Many Christian devotions can be practised in the home: reciting the ‘Rosary’ (indulgenced if prayed in a family group), praying the ‘Angelus’, having pictures and statues of Our Lady, making cribs at Christmas, blessing at meals, etc. They will help make the home always a friendly place, characteristic of a Christian family where people are taught from a very early age to speak to God and his Most Holy Mother with naturalness. Ref: Cf F Fernandez, “In Conversation with God”, 2:439-40 • Our Lady of Nantes, in Brittany. This church, dedicated to the apostles Peter and Paul by Felix Bishop of Nantes, was demolished by the Normans in the year 937; and rebuilt by Alain, Duke of Brittany. — Fortauatus, lib. iii.; Carm., c. 1, 2, 3, and 4. (“Catholic Gems or Treasures of the Church” Historical Calendar; www.bethlehemobserver.com) • “Notre-Dame de Nantes”. Bretagne, France. (www.marylinks.org/Mary-Calendar.htm) • Our Lady of Nantes (in Bretagne, France). (maryfest.htm / www.starharbor.com/santiago/m_feasts.html); (www.miraclehunter.com/marian_apparitions/calendar/index.html) • Our Lady of Africa. Algiers. 1876. Celebrated by the White Fathers. (www.marylinks.org/Mary-Calendar.htm) • Our Lady of Africa (celebrated by the White Fathers). (maryfest.htm / www.starharbor.com/santiago/m_feasts.html) • Our Lady of Africa (celebrated by the White Fathers) Algiers, Lebanon 1876. (www.miraclehunter.com/marian_apparitions/calendar/index.html) • Our Lady of Africa, Algiers (1876). (www/divinewill.org/feastsofourlady.html); (www.iskandar.com/ourlady/ourladyfeasts.html); (http://mariedenazareth.com) • Our Lady of Quito (Ecuador). (maryfest.htm / www.starharbor.com/santiago/m_feasts.html) [NB: See 28, 29 April.]

29 April 2012: Memorial -- St Catherine of Siena, virgin and Doctor of the Church

She caused the return of Pope Gregory XI from Avignon to Rome (~1376). Despite her short life, she gave us a lesson in courage -- ‘of telling the truth for love of the Church and of souls’. Imprinted with the stigmata, she died in Rome at thirty-three years of age. Patroness of Italy along with St Francis of Assisi. (Fr James Socias, ‘et al’ [Eds], “Daily Roman Missal”, 1989, p1514) Pope Paul VI proclaimed her Doctor of the Church. (cf F Fernandez, “In Conversation with God”, 6:201-2; 205) Love for the Church and the Pope St Catherine of Siena did not have a formal education (she learned to read and write as an adult). She led an extraordinarily full and fruitful life, “as if she was in a great hurry to reach the eternal tabernacle of the Blessed Trinity”. (John Paul II, “Homily in Siena”, 14 October 1980) She is a wonderful example of love for the Church and for the Roman Pontiff, whom she described as “the sweet Christ on earth” (St Catherine of Siena, “Letters”, Siena 1913, III, 211); and of forthrightness and courage in making herself heard by the men of her time which was particularly difficult in the Church’s history. Rome, as the centre of Christianity, had deteriorated. Our Lord made St Catherine see the necessity for the Popes to return from Avignon to Rome and inaugurate the long-awaited urgent reform of Church life. She prayed tirelessly, did penance and wrote unceasingly to the Pope, to cardinals and to various princes of Christendom. St Catherine always professed unswerving obedience and love for the Roman Pontiff, of whom she wrote: “Anyone who refuses to obey the Christ on earth, who is in the place of Christ in heaven, does not participate in the fruit of the blood of the Son of God.” (St Catherine of Siena, “Letter 207”, III, 270) She had great respect for the Church’s pastors because “they are ministers of the blood of Christ”. (cf Paul VI, “Homily on proclaiming St Catherine a Doctor of the Church”, 4 October 1970) Let us pray to her for this fiery love for our Mother the Church, which is an indivisible closeness to Christ. Our times, too are days of trial and sorrow for Christ’s Mystical Body. Let us offer the numerous pinpricks of daily life for the welfare of the Church. God will surely bless us and Our Lady will generously pour out his grace upon us. Ref: Cf F Fernandez, “In Conversation with God”, 6:201-2; 205 St Catherine of Siena, ‘Teacher’ and ‘Mother’ We look at St Catherine today to admire in her what at once struck those who came close to her: ‘her extraordinarily rich humanity’. This was by no means obscured but rather was ‘increased and perfected by grace’. This made her a living image of that veracious, healthy Christian ‘humanism’, the fundamental law of which was formulated by St Catherine’s fellow Dominican and teacher, St Thomas Aquinas. His famous maxim is: “Grace does not suppress, but supposes and perfects nature.” A human with complete dimensions is one who acts in the grace of Christ ... Our saint had a woman’s nature, abundantly endowed with fantasy, intuition, sensibility, ... readiness to give herself in service. She was transfigured, not impoverished, in the light of Christ ... and to identify mystically with him in the depths of ‘interior knowledge’; to commit herself likewise in charitable action, social, and even political action, among the great and small, the rich and the poor, the learned and the ignorant. She, almost illiterate, became able to make herself heard, to be read, to be held in consideration by rulers of cities and realms, by princes and prelates of the Church, by monks and theologians, by many of whom she was actually venerated as ‘teacher’ and ‘mother’. The daughter of humble dyers showed how she could hearken to the voice of the one Shepherd and Teacher and nourish herself at the table of the Divine Spouse, to whom, as a ‘wise virgin’, she generously consecrated her life. This was a masterpiece of grace, renewing and elevating the creature to perfection of holiness ... Ref: Cf “Prayers and Devotions from Pope John Paul II”, pp173-4 ‘For God all the glory’ “Am I seeking human approval or God’s? ... If I were still pleasing people, I would not be a servant of Christ.” (Gal 1:10) “It is a very small thing that you should judge me ... The Lord alone is my judge.” (1 Cor 4:3-4) “Among the surprises which await us on the day of judgment, not least will be the silence with which Our Lord will greet those actions of ours which merited the applause of men ... On the other hand it can happen that he will weigh in positive terms some actions which have drawn down criticism and censorship upon us ...” (G Chevrot, “In Secret”) A wrong intention destroys the best of actions: the deed can be well done, it can even be beneficial; but, since it is corrupted at source, it loses all value in the eyes of God. Vanity or self-seeking can destroy, sometimes completely, what could have been a deed meriting holiness. Without a right intention, we go astray. Occasionally, receiving some praise is a sign of friendship and can help along the way of goodness. But this praise must be directed towards God in all simplicity. Besides, it is one thing to receive a word of praise, a sign of being well received; another thing is to look for praise. We must always be careful when we are praised or commended. “Since many times our poor soul goes off the right path, as soon as it is applauded ... thus it finds its delight more in being called happy than in actually being so. And that thing which should have been a reason for praising God becomes instead a cause of our separation from him.” (St Gregory the Great, “Moralia”, 10, 47-8) God accepts our actions, even small ones, if we offer them to him with a pure intention. “Do everything for the glory of God.” (1 Cor 10:31) The two small coins that the poor widow put into the box in the Temple (cf Mk 12:42) became a great treasure in heaven. We have a marvellous aspiration to say repeatedly: “Lord, for myself I want nothing. All for your glory and for Love.” (St Josemaria Escrivá, “The Way”, 788) Ref: Cf F Fernandez, “In Conversation with God”, 2:394-7 • Our Lady of Faith, at the Augustinian convent of Amiens. This image remained a long time in the cabinet of a young lady who made a present of it to the church of the Augustinians, where it has wrought many miracles. — Augustinian Manuscripts, Amiens. (“Catholic Gems or Treasures of the Church” Historical Calendar; www.bethlehemobserver.com) • Our Lady of Faith (in the Augustinian Church of Amiens, France). (maryfest.htm / www.starharbor.com/santiago/m_feasts.html); (www.marylinks.org/Mary-Calendar.htm); (www.miraclehunter.com/marian_apparitions/calendar/index.html) • Our Lady of Faith, Amiens, France. (www/divinewill.org/feastsofourlady.html); (www.iskandar.com/ourlady/ourladyfeasts.html) • Our Lady Queen of Orphans. Celebrated by the Somaschians. (www.marylinks.org/Mary-Calendar.htm); (maryfest.htm / www.starharbor.com/santiago/m_feasts.html); (www.miraclehunter.com/marian_apparitions/calendar/index.html) • Our Lady of the Earthquake (Quito, Ecuador). (maryfest.htm / www.starharbor.com/santiago/m_feasts.html) [NB: See 28, 30 April.] • Our Lady of the Earthquake. Quito, Ecuador 1534. (www.miraclehunter.com/marian_apparitions/calendar/index.html) • Apparition of Our Lady to St Bonet, Bishop of Clermont in Auvergne, whom she ordered to say mass one night when he had remained in the church to pray. The saint leaning against a pillar, as if to hide himself, the stone became soft and made the place for him, which is seen to this day. But the Blessed Virgin having obliged him to officiate, she left him when mass was over, the chasuble which had been brought him by angels to celebrate in. The heavenly present is still to be seen at Clermont, where it is preserved with great care. — See his Life in Surius, Jan. 15. (“Catholic Gems or Treasures of the Church” Historical Calendar; www.bethlehemobserver.com) • Apparition of Our Lady to St Bonet (7th Century). (/www/divinewill.org/feastofourlady.htm); (www.iskandar.com/ourlady/ourladyfeasts.html); (maryfest.htm / www.starharbor.com/santiago/m_feasts.html)

28 April 2012: The origin of the Rosary

St Louis de Montfort tells the story of how St Dominic received the Rosary from the Blessed Virgin. St Dominic, seeing that the gravity of people’s sins was hindering the conversion of the Albigensians, withdrew into a forest near Toulouse where he prayed unceasingly for three days and three nights. During this time he did nothing but weep and do harsh penances to appease the anger of Almighty God. He used his discipline so much his body was lacerated, and finally he fell into a coma. Our Lady appeared, accompanied by three angels, and said: ‘Dear Dominic, do you know which weapon the Blessed Trinity wants to use to reform the world?’ ‘Oh, my Lady’, answered St Dominic, ‘you know far better than I do because next to your Son Jesus Christ you have always been the chief instrument of our salvation’. Our Lady replied: ‘I want you to know, in this kind of warfare, that the battering ram has always been the Angelic Psalter which is the foundation stone of the New Testament. Thus, if you want to reach these hardened souls and win them over to God, preach my Psalter.’ He arose, comforted, and burning with zeal for conversion of the people in that district he went directly to the Cathedral. At once unseen angels rang the bells to gather the people and St Dominic began to preach. At the start of his sermon a storm broke out, the earth shook, the sun was darkened, and there was so much thunder and lightning. Everybody was very scared. Even greater was their fear when looking at a picture of Our Lady exposed in a prominent place, they saw her raise her arms to heaven three times to call down God’s vengeance upon them if they failed to be converted, to amend their lives, and seek the protection of the Holy Mother of God. God wished, through these supernatural phenomena, to spread the new devotion of the Holy Rosary and to make it widely known. At last at the prayer of St Dominic, the storm ended, and he went on preaching. So fervently and compellingly did he explain the importance and value of the Holy Rosary that almost all the people of Toulouse embraced it and renounced their false beliefs. Soon a great improvement was seen in the town; people began leading Christian lives and gave up their former bad habits. Ref: St Louis M de Montfort, “The Secret of the Rosary”, 1954, 18-9 “Virgo fidelis” -- “Faithful Virgin, pray for us! Teach us to believe as you believed! Make our faith in God, in Christ, in the Church, always be limpid, serene, courageous, strong and generous.” (Pope John Paul II, “The Pope Speaks on Mary”, 1979, p19) “We ought to perform all our actions through Mary, with Mary and in Mary in order to perform them better through Jesus, with Jesus, in Jesus.” -- St Louis Marie de Montfort “The Holy Spirit, upon entering a soul and finding there Mary, His beloved Spouse, communicates His life to that soul and fills it with gifts.” -- St Louis Marie de Montfort Ref: Rev Joseph A Viano, SSP, “Two Months with Mary”, 1984, p19 The peace Our Lord gives His disciples ‘Peace be to you’, are our Lord’s first words to his apostles on the evening of his resurrection. Peace of the soul and of the heart; the only true happiness in this life. And he repeats them three times in two successive visits. Why three times? To make us understand the three kinds of peace he desires for us -- peace with God, our neighbor, ourselves. How much do we value this highest of heavenly gifts, ‘peace with God’? This peace consists in the full and entire conformity of our will with that of God. His will is manifested through the commandments and counsels, the orders of our directors. All we need do, then, is to ask, “How have I conformed my words, thoughts, and actions to these standards?” “... after eight days, again his disciples were within, with Thomas. Jesus came, the doors being shut, stood in their midst, and said, ‘Peace be to you’.” (cf Jn 20:26-7) Peace with God should always be united to peace with our neighbors. The fulness of this peace, based on charity and fraternal union, is what our Lord desired for his disciples. It was vital to them, for the least division can cause failure of their mission to reunite all nations of the earth by mutual faith, hope, and charity. The conditions for preserving this peace are: 1) to bear with the defects of others; and 2) to give others nothing to bear from us. Does our rudeness disturb peace and union? “He said, therefore, to them again, ‘Peace be to you’.” To possess the fulness of peace Jesus desires for his disciples, we must acquire ‘peace with ourselves’. This interior peace consists in a good conscience; the senses and passions subject to reason, and of reason to faith. This peace is impossible in this world where the flesh and self-love always rebel against the will of God. The peace of our souls must be sought in a perpetual and resolute combat “... resisting the passions, not by serving them, that true peace of heart is to be found.” (Thomas à Kempis, “The Imitation of Christ”) Ref: Cf “Practical Meditations” by a Father of the Society of Jesus, 1964, pp224-6 • St Peter Chanel, priest and martyr -- A religious of the Society of Mary (Marists). (Fr James Socias, ‘et al’ [Eds], “Daily Roman Missal”, 1989, p1513) • St Louis Marie Grignon de Montfort -- Founder of the “Missionaries of the Company of Mary” (Montfort Fathers) and “Daughters of Wisdom”. A great lover of Mary, he wrote “The True Devotion to the Blessed Virgin Mary”. • Our Lady of the Oak, near the town of Sable, in Anjou. This image has wrought so many miracles, that it is at present very famous in the country; Marshal de Bois-Dauphin built a fine church for it, and a house of reception for the pilgrims.— (Triple Couronne, n. 50.) (“Catholic Gems or Treasures of the Church” Historical Calendar; www.bethlehemobserver.com) • Our Lady of the Oak (“Notre-Dame du Chêne”). Near Sable, Anjou, France. In the Middle Ages. A Druidic custom absorbed by Christianity. (www.marylinks.org/Mary-Calendar.htm) • Our Lady of the Oak, Anjou, France. (www/divinewill.org/feastsofourlady.html); (www.iskandar.com/ourlady/ourladyfeasts.html) • Our Lady of the Oak (near Sable: Anjou, France). (maryfest.htm / www.starharbor.com/santiago/m_feasts.html); (www.miraclehunter.com/marian_apparitions/calendar/index.html) • Our Lady of Quito, Ecuador (1534). “Our Lady of the Earthquake”. (www/divinewill.org/feastsofourlady.html); (www.iskandar.com/ourlady/ourladyfeasts.html) NB: See 29, 30 April. • “Nuestra Señora de Quito” (Our Lady of Quito); Our Lady of the Earthquake. Quito, Ecuador. 1534. Discussed in the visit of John Paul II to Quito. (www.marylinks.org/Mary-Calendar.htm) • Our Lady of Graces (Italy, Avellino) (http://mariedenazareth.com)

27 April 2012: Our Lady of Montserrat

The veneration of Our Lady of Montserrat, Patroness of Catalonia, is extremely ancient, predating the seventh-century Arab invasion of Spain. The statue was hidden at the time of the Islamic incursion and discovered in the ninth century, at which point a chapel was built to venerate it. King Wilfrid later founded a Benedictine abbey there. The shrine was originally regional in appeal, but the miracles attributed to the Virgin of Montserrat became so numerous, news of them was carried far and wide; the fame of the shrine spread well beyond the borders of Catalonia. In Italy one can find more than one-hundred and fifty churches or chapels dedicated to Our Lady of Montserrat. Some of the first churches to be founded in Mexico, Chile and Peru were also dedicated to her, not to mention numerous monasteries, towns, mountains and islands throughout the American continent named in her honor. Ref: Cf F Fernandez, “In Conversation with God”, 6:195-7 Marian shrines are ‘divine signs’ Countless pilgrims daily visit numerous shrines of Our Lady to discover God’s ways or to renew them to find peace of soul and consolation in affliction. In these places of prayer, the Blessed Virgin makes the soul’s encounter with her Son easier, his presence more accessible. Every Marian shrine is a “permanent antenna of the Good News of salvation”. (John Paul II, “Address to rectors of Marian shrines”, 22 January 1981, in F Fernandez, “In Conversation with God”, 6:195) For centuries countless Christians have had recourse to Our Lady of Montserrat for her intercession to keep them going when life was hard. At her shrine they all found what they sought: peace of soul, God’s call to a greater self-giving, a cure, or consolation in tribulation. The liturgy of this feast is centred on the mystery of the Visitation, “which is the first undertaking of the Blessed Virgin. Montserrat offers us, therefore, very worthwhile lessons for our journey as pilgrims”. (John Paul II, “Address at Montserrat”, 17 November 1982) We must remember our goal is specific and very well defined: heaven. The destination determines to a great extent what transport to use, the baggage to bring and provisions along the way. The Blessed Virgin tells us not to carry too many things, nor wear cumbersome clothes, and to walk briskly towards our Father’s house. She reminds us that nothing on this earth is permanent; and that everything must be subordinated to the completion of the journey, of which perhaps we have already covered a considerable portion. Moreover, on the journey we have to do as Mary did when she went to visit her cousin Elizabeth: She “arose and went with haste” (Lk 1:39), with a quick and joyful gait. Ref: Cf F Fernandez, “In Conversation with God”, 6:195-6 The Significance of Marian Shrines A particular manifestation of the motherhood of Mary with regard to mankind is to be found in places where she meets with them -- ‘houses which she inhabits’; houses where a particular presence of the Mother is felt. Such places and such houses are very numerous; and very varied -- alcoves in dwellings or wayside shrines where the image of the Mother of God shines out, chapels and churches erected in Her honor. But there are also some places where people ‘feel the presence of the Mother to be particularly alive’. Sometimes these places radiate their light fulsomely; they attract people from afar. Their brightness may cover a diocese, an entire nation, sometimes more nations and even continents. These are ‘Marian shrines’. In all these places, that singular testament left by the Crucified Lord is realized in a marvelous manner: man there feels consigned and entrusted to Mary. Man hastens there in order to be with her as with his own Mother, man opens his heart to her and talks about everything. ‘He takes Her into his house’, that is, into all his problems, which are sometimes difficult; and others’ problems: of families, of society, of nations, of the whole of mankind. Ref: Cf “Prayers and Devotions from Pope John Paul II”, p204 The Holy Spirit, the Gift of Holiness We must now reflect on the fact that Pentecost began ‘on the very evening of the Resurrection’ when the Risen Lord breathed on those in the Cenacle and said: ‘Receive the Holy Spirit. If you forgive men’s sins, they are forgiven them.’ This is the Easter gift whereby, according to a relationship of causality even before that of chronology, ‘Christ gave the Holy Spirit to the Church’ as the divine gift; and as the incessant and inexhaustible ‘fount of sanctification’. ‘Receive the Holy Spirit.’ ... And sanctification begins with remission of sins. First there is ‘Baptism’, the sacrament of total cancellation of sins; then ‘Penance’, the sacrament of reconciliation with God and the Church; then the ‘Anointing of the Sick’. But this work of sanctification always attains its culmination in the ‘Eucharist’, the sacrament of the fulness of holiness and grace. In this marvellous flow of supernatural life, what place is due to ‘Confirmation’? The same sanctification is expressed in reinforcement of it as well, that is, in ‘Confirmation’. In it, too, is the superabundant fulness of the Holy, sanctifying Spirit, operating in a special dynamism, the efficacy of inner-inspired and directed action. The nature of the Sacrament of Confirmation flows out in this ‘conferring strength’, communicated to each of the baptized, to make him or her a perfect Christian and soldier of Christ, ready to testify courageously to his resurrection and its redemptive power: ‘Then you are to be my witnesses ...’ Ref: Cf “Prayers and Devotions from Pope John Paul II”, 1984, p218 The School of Prayer The Lord will grant you the ability to discover many other aspects of the faithful response to grace of the Blessed Virgin. To know these facets of her life is to want to imitate them: her purity, humility, fortitude, generosity, fidelity ... But now I want to speak to you of an aspect that in a way encompasses all the others because it is a condition for spiritual growth -- her life of prayer. Ref: Cf St Josemaria Escrivá, “Christ is passing by”, 174 Our Lady -- “Holy Mary is the ‘Queen of peace’, and thus the Church invokes her. So when your soul or your family are troubled, or things go wrong at work, in society or between nations, cry out to her without ceasing. Call to her by this title: ‘Queen of peace, pray for us.’ Have you at least tried it when you have lost your calm? You will be surprised at its immediate effect.” (St Josemaria Escrivá, “Furrow”, 874) • It is said that in the year 1419, Our Lady de Haut, in Hainault, restored a child to life who had been dead three days. — Justus Lipsius, History of Our Lady of Haut, c. 19. (“Catholic Gems or Treasures of the Church” Historical Calendar; www.bethlehemobserver.com) • Our Lady of Haut (Hainaut, France). (maryfest.htm / www.starharbor.com/santiago/m_feasts.html); (www.miraclehunter.com/marian_apparitions/calendar/index.html) • “Notre Dame d'Haut”. Hainaut, France. Church built by Le Corbusier, 1955. (www.marylinks.org/Mary-Calendar.htm) • “Nuestra Señora de Montserrat”. Spain. 1535. “Patrona de Cataluña”. ... Black madonna. (www.marylinks.org/Mary-Calendar.htm) • Our Lady “La Moreneta”, Spain. (www/divinewill.org/feastsofourlady.html); (www.iskandar.com/ourlady/ourladyfeasts.html) • Our Lady of Monserrat / “La Morenita”. Spain. (www.miraclehunter.com/marian_apparitions/calendar/index.html) • Our Lady of Montserrat (Spain). (http://mariedenazareth.com) • Our Lady of the Village. Corella, Bohol, PHL. 1884. (“The 2002 Catholic Directory of the Philippines”, p244) • Our Lady of the Victories. Victoria, Negros Occidental. PHL. (www.miraclehunter.com/marian_apparitions/calendar/index.html) • Our Lady of Perpetual Help Icon Transferred to St Alphonsus' Church in Rome (1886) (http://mariedenazareth.com)

26 April 2012: Memorial -- Mother of Good Counsel

‘Mater Boni Consilii.’ You who profess a special devotion to the Mother of God may you obtain help and comfort from her for your renewed resolves to tighten the bonds of the common life and, exactly by reason of that interior strengthening of roots, to project that life to the whole Church. May we above all obtain from her that higher ‘counsel’ which is discernment and sagacity in decisions, but even more the individualization of the increased spiritual needs of our age, vision of social and human reality in the light of the Gospel, and consequently, courage to give adequate responses to these needs and that vision. O Mother of Jasna Gora, I am, O Mother, all yours, and everything mine is yours! All that is mine, so also my homeland, my nation. O Mother, I have been called to serve the Universal Church on the Chair of St Peter at Rome. Thinking of this universal service, I constantly repeat, ‘“Totus tuus” -- wholly yours’. I desire to be the servant of all! Mother, everything that is mine is yours! What more can I say to you? In what other way entrust this land, this people, this heritage, to You? I confide them to you just as I can. You are the Mother. You will understand and will accept. Ref: Cf “Prayers and Devotions from Pope John Paul II”, p170 The fruits of difficulties After the martyrdom of St Stephen there arose a persecution against the Christians of Jerusalem which caused them to scatter throughout other areas of the Middle East. (Acts 8:1-8) Providence made use of that circumstance to carry the seed of the faith to other places which otherwise would have taken longer to get to know Christ. Our Lord always has more complete plans. What seemed the end of the primitive Church in fact led to its strengthening and expansion. So those who persecuted the Church, whose objective was to stifle the recently-born seed of faith, were the indirect cause why so many more people, otherwise unreachable because of their dwelling in faraway places, got to know the doctrine of Jesus Christ. The Christians expressed their apostolic spirit during times of peace, which were the majority, and in times of calumny and persecution. They never ceased to announce the Good News which they had in their hearts, convinced the doctrine of Jesus Christ is the only one that can make this world a more just and humane place. Trials and difficulties can differ considerably. Some may be due to a materialist and anti-christian environment which opposes Christ’s reign in the world: calumnies, professional discrimination, anti-Catholic fanaticism. Or Our Lord permits sickness, financial disaster, failures, fruitless apostolic enterprise after much effort or lack of understanding. Whatever, we should understand that God is very close to us. He helps us, with more graces, to mature in virtue and to bear fruit in the apostolate. God wants to purify us like gold in the furnace, cleansing our soul of its dross, leaving it more refined and valuable. Ref: Cf F Fernandez, “In Conversation with God”, 2:399-400 The communion of graces The doctrine of the Mystical Body of Christ shows the profound unity among Christians due to union with their head, Christ. “If one member suffers, all suffer together; if one member is honoured, all rejoice together with it.” (1 Cor 12:26) This stable union of the faithful with one another led St Paul to ask for prayers from the first Christians at Rome. He always felt very united with his brothers in the Faith, whom he always addressed as ‘saints’ in his letters. (cf Phil 1:1) From the beginning of the Church, Christians have professed among the principal truths of faith in the Apostles’ Creed: “I believe in the Communion of Saints.” It is a community of spiritual qualities from which everyone benefits. It is not a sharing of material, cultural or artistic favors, but of imperishable goods. Offering Our Lord our work, prayer, joy and difficulties brings an immense good to people who are far from us and to the entire Church. St Teresa, aware of the damage caused by Protestant errors in the Church, knew also of this desirable mutual support. “The things of God’s service are so bad that those of us who do serve Him have to stand back to back in order to make progress at all.” (St Teresa, “Life”, 7-8) This doctrine was always practised throughout Church history. (cf St Ignatius of Antioch, “Letter to the Ephesians”, 2, 2-5; St Cyprian, “Letter 60”; St Clement of Rome, “Letter to the Corinthians” 36, 1 ff; St Ambrose, “Treatise on Cain and Abel”, 1 ff) What does the Communion of Saints mean for us in practise? “... that all of us who are united in Christ, the saints in heaven, the souls in purgatory, and we on earth -- must be mindful of the needs of one another ... The saints ‘must’ love the souls whom God loves. The love the blessed in heaven have for the Souls in Purgatory and the souls on earth is not a passive love. ... [but] an active, ‘hungry’ love. The saints long to help onward to heaven all souls ... And if the prayer of a good man on earth has power with God, there is no estimating the power of prayers which the saints offer for us. ...” (Leo Trese, “The Faith Explained”, p146) Ref: Cf F Fernandez, “In Conversation with God”, 2:411-3 Fortitude and Its Rewards This virtue can become rare in the pleasure-loving and success-hungry environment where most of us live. Religious convictions can easily be suppressed by fear of being criticized, belittled or even ridiculed. About fortitude, Fr Leo J Trese said it is hard not to laugh at the obscene joke, especially if the teller happens to be the boss or a good customer. When the malicious gossip starts, it is hard to insist on changing the conversation or to speak up in defense of the person under attack -- particularly when the subject really is a stinker. It is hard to make the boyfriend behave when everybody says a little loving never hurt anyone; especially when boyfriends are rare. Our world of work and recreation may frequently be uynsympathetic to virtue. Businessmen often find under-the-table deals as standard operating procedure. Risqué shows are bandied about as hilarious entertainment. It is consoling to find that fortitude also brings rewards. The courage of the man born blind in glorifying Jesus before the council was magnificently rewarded. “Jesus heard they had driven him away, and when he found him he said to him, ‘Do you believe in the Son of Man?’ ‘Sir’, the man replied, ‘tell me who he is so that I may believe in him.’ Jesus said, ‘You are looking at him; he is speaking to you.’ The man said, ‘Lord, I believe’, and worshipped him.” (Jn 9:35-8 ) Before, sight was restored to his eyes. Now, sight was given to his soul. Christians who stand by their conscience inevitably discover that they have grown in stature in the eyes of other people. Initially, they might have been somewhat afraid they would lose their friends. Afterwards, they realize they have gained respect as well as affection. Their friends find in them a reassuring source of strength. Ref: Cf Fr M Guzman, “Encounters With Christ”, 1990, pp109-10 • Our Lady of Naiera, in Navarre. This image was found miraculously in the year 1048; Dom Garcias de Naiera, King of Navarre, built a church for it, which several kings of Navarre visited. — Andre Favin, liv. iii.. Hist. de Navarre. (“Catholic Gems or Treasures of the Church” Historical Calendar; www.bethlehemobserver.com) • Our Lady of Naïera, Navarre (1048). (www/divinewill.org/feastsofourlady.html); (www.iskandar.com/ourlady/ourladyfeasts.html) • Our Lady of Naiera (Navarre, France). (maryfest.htm / www.starharbor.com/santiago/m_feasts.html); (www.miraclehunter.com/marian_apparitions/calendar/index.html) • Our Lady of Good Counsel. (www/divinewill.org/feastsofourlady.html); (www.iskandar.com/ourlady/ourladyfeasts.html) • Mother of Good Counsel. (maryfest.htm / www.starharbor.com/santiago/m_feasts.html) • Mother / Our Lady of Good Counsel. Detailed history. (www.marylinks.org/Mary-Calendar.htm) • “Nuestra Señora de Salera”. Aliaga, Nueva Ecija. (“The 1997 Catholic Directory of the Philippines”, p51)

25 April 2012: Feast -- St Mark, Evangelist

St Peter’s secretary in Rome. Author of the second Gospel which emphasizes the Saviour’s miraculous powers. (Fr James Socias, ‘et al’ [Eds], “Daily Roman Missal”, 1989, p1511) Despite his Roman name, Mark was Jewish by birth. He was also known by his Hebrew name John. Not one of the twelve Apostles, he probably knew Jesus personally. Many ecclesiastical writers see in the episode of the young man, who let go the sheet and fled at Jesus’ arrest in Gethsemane, a reference to Mark in his Gospel. Mark alone mentions it. This tallies with the fact that he was the son of a woman named Mary, who seems to have been a wealthy widow in whose house the first Jerusalem Christians used to meet. According to ancient tradition this house was in fact the Cenacle, where Our Lord celebrated the Last Supper and instituted the Blessed Eucharist. (cf F Fernandez, “In Conversation with God”, 6:189-93) The apostolic mandate From his early youth Mark was among the first Christians of Jerusalem who had lived with Our Lady and the Apostles, all of whom he knew well. His mother was one of the first women to provide for Jesus and the Twelve. He is a cousin of Barnabas, one of the chief figures of those first days; and who initiated him in the task of spreading the Gospel. Mark went with Paul and Barnabas on their apostolic journey (cf Acts 13:5-13), but on arriving in Cyprus he probably felt he was unable to carry on any further, for at that point he left them and went back to Jerusalem (cf Acts 13:13). Paul seems to have been disgusted at Mark’s inconstancy. Many years later in Rome, Paul finds him “a comfort” and faithful companion. (cf 1 Pet 5:13) About ten years later we find him in Rome, helping Peter who refers to him as “my son, Mark” (cf Phil 24), thereby testifying to a long-standing close relationship. Being interpreter for the Prince of Apostles provided him with a privileged vantage-point, reflected in the Gospel he wrote later. St Jerome writes that “Mark, the disciple and interpreter of Peter, wrote down his Gospel at the request of the brethren living in Rome, according to what he had heard Peter preach. And Peter, having heard it, approved it with his authority to be read in the Church.” (“De script eccl”) This was no doubt Mark’s principal mission in life: to faithfully transmit Peter’s teaching. The Church proposes St Mark to us today as a model. It can be a great source of hope and consolation to contemplate the life of this holy Evangelist, because despite weaknesses we can, like him, trust in divine grace and in the assistance of our Mother the Church. Our imperfections should not cause us to turn away from God or to abandon our apostolic mission. At times we may have failed to respond properly to God’s grace. In these and other circumstances, if they occur, we should not be discouraged. Failures and acts of cowardice can serve a purpose and that is why we turn to Our Lord asking his pardon and help. But precisely because he trusts us and that we can count on receiving grace anew, we ought to begin again immediately and resolve to be more faithful. With Our Lord’s help we learn to draw good from our weaknesses, especially when the enemy, who never rests, tries to discourage us and get us to give up. Jesus wants us to be his despite any history of weakness on our part. “Go into all the world and proclaim the Gospel to every creature” (Mk 16:15) is the apostolic mandate. Moved by the Holy Spirit, St Mark testifies that this command was fulfilled: the Apostles “went out and preached everywhere, while the Lord worked with them and confirmed the message by signs that attended it” (Mk 16:20). Ref: Cf F Fernandez, “In Conversation with God”, 6:189-93 ‘Evangelical Leaven’ The Gospel St Mark wrote brings out the contrast between Christ who pardons (Mk 2:10), overcomes demons (Mk 1:24-7), heals the sick (Mk 1:31); and those men who jeer at him (Mk 5:40) and desire his ruin (Mk 3:36). In this ‘scandalous’ contrast Mark sees the guiding line of God’s activity; he surprises people and induces them to ask about Christ’s identity. “Who is he?” (Mk 4:41) Through the very experience of their humiliation, he prepared them for the act of faith in his saving mission. “Truly this man was God’s Son” (Mk 15:39) is the centurion’s confession at the foot of the Cross. How can we fail to see all this as a clear indication for whoever wishes to follow Christ’s footsteps and become his witness in the contemporary world? Meekness in the face of opposition and clashes, dominion over the passions and forces of evil, and commitment to alleviating every form of suffering: the concrete modes whereby the Christian can provoke a query about Christ in people of today as well, for hearts to be disposed to accepting this message. Thus, enable him to work effectively for the coming of God’s kingdom and construction of the earthly City, in accord with the Christian vision of the world and of history, which is irreconciliable with materialistic ideologies. Ref: Cf “Prayers and Devotions from Pope John Paul II”, p169 The Christian Apostolate St John has recorded a wonderful phrase by our Lady. At Cana she told the waiters: "Do whatever he tells you." (Jn 2:5) It’s all about getting people to face Jesus and ask him: "Lord what do you want me to do?" (Acts 9:6) The christian apostolate -- about an ordinary Christian living as just one more man or woman among equals -- is a great work of teaching. Through real, personal, loyal friendship, you create in others a hunger for God and you help them to discover new horizons: naturally, simply. With the example of your faith lived to the full, with a loving word which is full of the force of divine truth. Ref: Cf St Josemaria Escrivá, "Christ is passing by", 149 Christ, Son of the Living God We are here, we, your Church: the Body from your Body and from your Blood. We are here, we are keeping watch. We are by your sepulchre. We keep watch. We remain awake, so as to be before those women who “at dawn will come to the tomb, bringing the spices they had prepared” (cf Lk 24:1) to anoint your body, in the tomb since the evening of the day before. We keep watch in order to be near your tomb, before Peter, summoned by the words of the three women, comes too; before Peter sees only the wrappings ... We wish to be before the women and the Apostles ... We wish to be with you, we, your Church, the body from your body and from your blood shed on the Cross. We are your Body, we are your People. We are many. We gather in many parts of the world. ... We are all united by the faith, born of your Easter, of your passage through death to new Life, the faith born of your Resurrection. Ref: Cf Pope John Paul II, “Prayers and Devotions”, 1994, p158 Our Lady -- “Mary, teacher of prayer. See how she asks her Son at Cana. And how she insists, confidently, perseveringly ... And how she succeeds. Learn.” (cf St Josemaria Escrivá, “The Way”, 502) • Dedication of the Lower Holy Chapel of Paris, in honor of Our Lady, by Philip, Archbishop of Bonurges, in the year 1248. — Du Breuil, Theatre des Antiquites. (“Catholic Gems or Treasures of the Church” Historical Calendar; www.bethlehemobserver.com) • Dedication of the Lower Holy Chapel of Paris in honor of Our Lady (1248). (www/divinewill.org/feastsofourlady.html); (www.iskandar.com/ourlady/ourladyfeasts.html) • Dedication of the Lower Holy Chapel in honor of Mary. Paris. 1248. (www.marylinks.org/Mary-Calendar.htm) • Dedication of the Holy Chapel of Paris in Our Lady's honor, 1248. (maryfest.htm / www.starharbor.com/santiago/m_feasts.html); (www.miraclehunter.com/marian_apparitions/calendar/index.html) • Our Lady of Good Counsel, Genazzano, Italy. 1467. History. (www.marylinks.org/Mary-Calendar.htm) • Our Lady of Good Counsel. Genazzano. Elsewhere. (www.miraclehunter.com/marian_apparitions/calendar/index.html) • Apparitions of the Great Mediatrix of All Graces in Marienfried (Germany, 1946) (http://mariedenazareth.com)

24 April 2012: ‘... into the whole world’

Our Lord’s Resurrection is a call to apostolate. Each of his appearances ends with an apostolic command. To Mary Magdalene, Jesus says: “Go to my brethren and say to them, 'I am ascending to my Father and to your Father' (Jn 20:17); and to the other women, 'Go and tell my brethren to go to Galilee and that they shall see me there'” (Mt 28:10).
The disciples of Emmaus reported that same night that Jesus is alive. (cf Lk 24:35) “Afterwards he appeared to the eleven as they sat at table ... he said to them, ‘Go into all the world and preach the gospel to the whole creation’”(cf Mk 16:14-5).
The Apostles began to preach “repentance and forgiveness of sins ...” (cf Lk 24:44-7)
What they preach and testify to, are not mere speculations but salvific facts they have personally witnessed.
The death of Judas brought the need to complete the number of twelve apostles. One condition is the candidate must be a witness to the Resurrection. (cf Acts 1:21-2)
“The Christian vocation is by its very nature a vocation to the apostolate” (Second Vatican Council, “Apostolicam actuositatem”, 2) and “all the faithful, from the Pope to the child who has just been baptized, share one and the same vocation, the same faith, the same Spirit, the same grace ... They all have an active and appropriate share in the single mission of Christ and of the Church.” (cf A Del Portillo, “Faithful and Laity in the Church”)
We cannot be prevented from exercising the right in fulfilling this duty. Nor can we remain silent.
So much ignorance is around; error, too. Numerous people go through life lost and confused because they don’t know Christ. We must communicate daily to all, the doctrine and the faith.
“No one after lighting a lamp puts it under a bushel, but on a stand, and it gives light to all ... Let your light shine before men, so they may see your good works, and give glory to your Father in heaven.” (cf Mt 5:15-6)
“At the end of his time on earth, Christ commanded: go out and teach. He wants his light to shine in the words and behaviour of his disciples, and in yours, too.” (St Josemaria Escrivá, “Furrow”, 930)
Ref: Cf F Fernandez, “In Conversation with God”, 2:329-31

The Resurrection Points to the Real Humanism
Why did Christ speak of remission of sins immediately after the words, “Receive the Holy Spirit”? He said, “If you forgive men’s sins, they are forgiven them; if you hold them bound, they are held bound” (Jn 20:23).
Remission of sins supposes knowledge and confession of sins. Both signify ‘effort to live in truth and love’. It means the action of ‘the power of truth and love’, which forms the new man and transforms the world.
The contradiction is ‘falsification’ of the truth and ‘simulation’ of love. Contradiction is removing the line of demarcation between good and evil; calling humanism what is actually ‘sin’.
It would be very easy, unfortunately, to cite examples. Terrorism is rightly condemned as an attack upon and violation of elementary rights of man. Killing of man is condemned as something manifestly contrary to man’s very existence.
At the same time, however, depriving a human being ‘not yet born’ of life is called ‘humanism’; a ‘proof of progress’, emancipation; conforming with human dignity!
Let us not deceive ourselves! We must all denounce such contradictions. Remember, only “the truth will set you free” (Jn 8:32).
Only the truth has power to transform the world towards authentic progress and real ‘humanism’. And let us not call the demands of truth, conscience and dignity a purely ‘political’ choice. Man may not renounce them.
Ref: Cf “Prayers and Devotions from Pope John Paul II”, 1984, pp172-3

The disciples constrain Our Lord to remain
“When they drew close to the town they were going, he made as though he would go farther.” (Lk 24:28)
Our Lord fully intended to confer on these disciples the wonderful privilege of becoming their guest, and of making himself known to them that very day. He however, desired that this favor should be granted only at their pressing invitation.
God willingly comes and enters into our soul and manifests his presence by heavenly graces and favors. ‘My delights are to be with the children of men’; but he will be sought for and invited with fervor and perseverance.
If he seems far, and our soul is void of those movements of grace his presence creates, could tepidity towards him be the cause?
The disciples, whose hearts had burned during the discourse of the unknown pilgrim, begged him not to leave them. “Stay with us because it is towards evening, and the day is now far spent.” Adding action to word, “they constrained him. And he went in with them.” (Lk 24:29)
The practical conclusion here is -- if we wish to draw our Lord and his sensible graces into our souls, we must use a sort of holy violence towards him. At certain occasions, we increase our devout practices and mortifications, till, like the disciples, we constrain him to yield to our desires.
Like them, we may urge ‘that it is now towards evening’, and ‘that the day’ (of our life) ‘is now far spent’ and tending, perhaps without our suspecting it, towards its decline.
The pleas of the disciples, and their gentle violence towards him, pleased their Divine Lord. He yielded, and went in with them. Joyful, they did their best to be hospitable though still they knew not the dignity of their guest. What would they have done had they known?
I know the guest whom I receive into my heart at Holy Communion. How must I receive him?
Ref: Cf “Practical Meditations” by a Father of the Society of Jesus, 1964, pp218-20

Last Things
“Listen to me you who are up to your neck in science: your science cannot deny the reality of diabolic activities. My Mother, the holy Church, for many years -- and it is also a praiseworthy private devotion -- required the priests each day at the foot of the altar to invoke St Michael -- ‘against the wickedness and snares of the devil’.”
Ref: Cf St Josemaria Escrivá, “The Way”

Our Lady
492 “The love of our Mother will be the breath that kindles into a living flame the embers of virtue that are hidden under the ashes of your indifference.”

504 “The holy Virgin Mary, Mother of fair love, will bring relief to your heart, when it feels as if it’s made of flesh, if you have recourse to her with confidence.”
Ref: Cf St Josemaria Escrivá, “The Way”

• Dedication of Our Lady of Reparation, at Florence, by Eugenius IV., in the year 1436.—(Balingham on the Calendar.) (“Catholic Gems or Treasures of the Church” Historical Calendar; www.bethlehemobserver.com)
• Our Lady of Bonaria. Sardinia 1370. (www.miraclehunter.com/marian_apparitions/calendar/index.html)
• Our Lady of Bonaria (Sardinia). (maryfest.htm / www.starharbor.com/santiago/m_feasts.html)
• Our Lady of Bonaria, Island of Sardinia (1370). Declared Patron of Sardinia in 1908. (www/divinewill.org/feastsofourlady.html); (www.iskandar.com/ourlady/ourladyfeasts.html)
• “Madonna della Bonaria”. Sardinia, Italy. 1370. Mary is declared Patron of Sardinia in 1908. (www.marylinks.org/Mary-Calendar.htm)
• Our Lady of Salera. Aliaga, Nueva Ecija PHL. (www.miraclehunter.com/marian_apparitions/calendar/index.html)
• Our Lady of Lujan (Argentina) (http://mariedenazareth.com)

23 April 2012: Memorial -- Our Lady of Good Counsel

(Fr James Socias, ‘et al’ [Eds], “Daily Roman Missal”, 1989, p1907)

Charity unites, pride divides
St Paul wrote to the Christians of Ephesus: “I beg you to lead a life worthy of the vocation to which you have been called, with all lowliness and meekness, with patience, with forbearing for one another in love, eager to maintain the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace.” (cf “The Navarre Bible, Captivity Epistles”)
He lists the virtues: humility, gentleness, longanimity; various manifestations of charity, the bond of unity in the Church. “The temple of the King is not ruined, or cracked or divided: the cement of the living stones is charity.” (St Augustine, “Commentary on Psalm 44”)
Charity unites, pride separates. The first Christians showed their love for the Church through a charity which overcame all barriers.
One of the earliest Apologists, in the second century, described the behaviour of the first Christians as follows: “they love one another, they do not despise widows and they rescue orphans from those who treat them with violence; and he who has, gives unbegrudgingly to him who has not.” (Aristides, “Apology”, XV, 5-7)
However, the greatest charity was directed towards strengthening the brethren in the faith. The ‘Acts of the Martyrs’ recount in almost every page specific details of this concern for fidelity of the others.
Truly “it was Love that enabled them to make their way through that corrupt pagan world” (St Josemaria Escrivá, “Friends of God”, 172). Love for the brethren and the pagans.
Let us have recourse to our Mother Mary. “May she, the Mother of love and unity, bind us closely, in order that, like the first community born from the Cenacle, we may be ‘one heart and one soul’. May she, the ‘Mother of Unity’, in whose womb the Son of God was united to humanity, inaugurating mystically the nuptial union of the Lord with all men, help us to be ‘one’ and to become instruments of unity, among Christians and among all men.” (John Paul II, “Homily”, 24 March 1980)
Ref: Cf F Fernandez, “In Conversation with God”, 2:352-4

Communion of the Saints -- If you feel the communion of saints -- if you live it -- you’ll gladly be a man of penance. And you will realize that penance is “joy in spite of hardship”, and you will feel yourself “allied” to all the penitent souls that have been, that are, and that ever will be. (St Josemaria Escrivá, “The Way”, 548)

The Apostolate -- Unity. Unity and submission. What do I want with the loose parts of a clock -- even though they are finely wrought -- if they can’t tell me the time? (St Josemaria Escrivá, “The Way”, 962)

Jesus reproves and instructs the two disciples
Our Lord, having drawn the prejudices and incredulity from the lips of the two disciples, severely reproves them. “O foolish and slow of heart to believe in all things the prophets have spoken.” (Lk 24:25)
Severe, but neither bitter nor in anger. The disciples received it with humility; without comment. They felt it was prompted by charity.
Nothing is more fatal than acquisition of bad habits. These slowly become part of ourselves and are very difficult to shake off. “Habit becomes second nature.” (St Augustine)
We must be vigilant about seemingly innocuous tendencies. Our directors deserve credit for spotting our omissions in time; and if necessary, reprove us before it is too late for correction.
This is a great advantage and we must appreciate it. Let us not imitate the sick man who gets angry with the surgeon, who, to cure him, is often obliged to cause him pain. Receive correction, and, as the two disciples did, without reply, humbly, gratefully, with sincere desire of amendment.
The person at fault should know he is wrong and for which he requires instruction, for correction to be of real service. This was our Lord’s way with the two disciples by explaining that the prophecies about the Messiah contradict their errors on his doctrine of self-denial and humility. He says, “Ought not Christ to have suffered these things, and so to enter into his glory?” (Lk 24:26)
We clearly see the only road to eternal salvation pointed out by the Infallible Word himself: the way of the cross. Should I think myself wiser to deserve an easier way than my Master? By leading a soft life? Isn’t this absurd?
“Beginning with Moses and all the prophets, he interpreted the things about him.” (cf Lk 24:27) Our Lord could have enlightened them by a single ray of his grace. Why this long exposition of the prophetic writers?
To teach us that we must obtain and preserve the comprehension of doctrinal matters by diligently reading Holy Scripture and spiritual books. Is carelessness in spiritual reading the cause of our want of faith and light?
Ref: Cf “Practical Meditations” by a Father of the Society of Jesus, 1964, pp216-8

The use of holy water to conquer the devil
“You ask me why I always recommend, with such insistence, the daily use of holy water. I could give you many reasons. But there could be none better than that of the Saint of Avila: ‘From nothing do evil spirits flee more precipitately, never to return, than from holy water.’” (St Josemaria Escrivá, “The Way”, 572)
John Paul II exhorts us, when we pray, to think more about the last petition of the “Our Father: Lead us not into temptation. Deliver us from Evil -- from the Evil One. Do not let us give in, Lord, to the infidelity towards which the one who has been unfaithful right from the beginning entices us.” (“General Audience”, 13 August 1986)
The best way to show that we want to replace the devil’s ‘non serviam’ with our personal ‘Serviam: I will serve you, Lord’, is by a special effort to improve in our faithfulness to what we know God wants of us.
Ref: Cf Francis Fernandez, “In Conversation with God”, 2:36

Presence of God
Make it a habit to raise your heart to God, in acts of thanksgiving, many times a day. Because he gives you this and that ... Because someone has despised you ... Because you don’t have what you need, or because you do have it.
And because he made his Mother, who is also your Mother, so beautiful. Because he created the sun and the moon and this animal or that plant. Because he made that man eloquent and you left slow of speech. ...
Thank him for everything, because everything is good.
Ref: Cf St Josemaria Escrivá, “The Way”, 268

• Pope Calistus III grants Indulgences to visitors of Cathedral of Arras, which holds a Marian veil and cincture (sash). 1455. (www.marylinks.org/Mary-Calendar.htm)
• Pope Calixtus III grants indulgences to those who visit the Cathedral of Arras, where a veil and cinture of Our Lady are kept (1455). (www/divinewill.org/feastsofourlady.html); (www.iskandar.com/ourlady/ourladyfeasts.html); (www.miraclehunter.com/marian_apparitions/calendar/index.html)
• Indulgences granted to whoever visit the Cathedral of Arras where a veil and a cincture of Our Lady are preserved. (maryfest.htm / www.starharbor.com/santiago/m_feasts.html)
• Our Lady of Mende, Africa (16th Century). (www/divinewill.org/feastsofourlady.html); (www.iskandar.com/ourlady/ourladyfeasts.html); (www.marylinks.org/Mary-Calendar.htm); (http://mariedenazareth.com)

22 April 2012: Christ Draws All to Himself

Among the crowds who had come to Jerusalem were some Greeks who professed monotheism and frequented the synagogue. These Gentiles accepted certain practices of the Mosaic Law, such as prayer, almsgiving, the Sabbath rest, and the annual pilgrimages.
Noting the reception given to Jesus on Palm Sunday, and hearing about the miracles he had performed, these men [Greek Gentiles] keenly desired to meet him and converse with him. They approached Philip, who came from Bethsaida in Galilee, a town where Jews and Gentiles mixed and mingled. He had a Greek name, and he must have understood Greek.
They said to him: “Sir, we should like to see Jesus.” (Jn 12:21) Philip consulted Andrew and they told Jesus.
St John does not tell us if Jesus granted the Gentiles their request. We would like to believe the interview was given for Jesus never rejected anybody.
He patiently instructed the Samaritan woman, heard the centurion’s prayer and praised his faith, did not resist the repeated prayer of the Canaanite woman, and he cured the Samaritan leper. We would like to think these men were the first fruits of the spread of the Christian faith in the Hellenic world. Besides, the event would give greater meaning to our Lord’s exclamation about his glorification, which also involved drawing all men to himself.
The Greeks’ request seemed to have brought to Jesus’ mind the immense fields in which the Church would reap countless souls for God’s glory. He looked beyond Andrew and Philip, and said: “Now the hour has come for the Son of Man to be glorified.” (Jn 12:23) For a fleeting moment, the Redeemer contemplated his triumph over Satan.
Ref: Cf Fr M Guzman, “Encounters With Christ”, 1990, pp120-21

Holy Purity
The spotless purity of John’s whole life makes him strong facing the cross. The rest of the Apostles flee fom Golgotha. He, with the Mother of Christ, remains. (St Josemaria Escrivá, “The Way”, 144)

The Christian Apostolate
St John has recorded a wonderful phrase by our Lady. At Cana she told the waiters: “Do whatever he tells you.” (Jn 2:5) It’s all about getting people to face Jesus and ask him: “Lord what do you want me to do?” (Acts 9:6)
The christian apostolate -- about an ordinary Christian living as just one more man or woman among equals -- is a great work of teaching. Through real, personal, loyal friendship, you create in others a hunger for God and you help them to discover new horizons: naturally, simply. With the example of your faith lived to the full, with a loving word which is full of the force of divine truth.
Ref: Cf St Josemaria Escrivá, “Christ is passing by”, 149

Unity among Christians
“The company of those who believed were of one heart and soul.” (Acts 4:32) These words summarize the deep unity and fraternal love of the first Christians, which attracted so much attention from their fellow citizens.
“The disciples bore testimony to the Resurrection not only with their words but also with their virtues.” (St John Chrysostom, “Homilies on the Acts of the Apostles”, 11)
Christ expressly wished this Church unity from the very start. He speaks of one Pastor (cf Jn 10:16); emphasizes the Kingdom which cannot be divided (cf Mt 12:25), of the building with a single foundation (cf Mt 16:18). This unity was always founded on the profession of one faith, observance of a single form of worship; and submission to a sole hierarchical authority, constituted by Christ.
“There is only one Church of Jesus Christ which is like a big tree into which we are all grafted. It’s a matter of a deep vital unity which is a gift from God. It is not merely, nor above all, an external unity; it is a mystery and a gift ...
“This unity then is shown around him who in each diocese has been constituted as Shepherd, the Bishop. In the universal Church it is shown around the Pope, the Successor of Peter.” (John Paul II, “Homily”, Madrid, 3 November 1982)
The unity of faith was, among the first Christians, the support of their fortitude and of the inner life which flowed over into the exterior. The same Christian life has been lived since then by very different peoples. “... they shared, experienced and transmitted one single doctrine with the same soul and the same heart and identical voice.” (St Irenaeus, “Adversus Haereses”, 1, 10, 2)
The first Christians defended this unity of theirs to the point of facing persecution and even martyrdom. The Church has always encouraged her children to watch over their precious unity and pray for it. Our Lord prayed for it at the last Supper: “that they all may be one; even as thou, Father, are in me, and I in thee, that they also may be one in us” (Jn 17:21).
Unity is a great benefit; we must daily implore it because “every kingdom divided against itself cannot stand” (Mt 12:25).
Ref: Cf F Fernandez, “In Conversation with God”, 2:349-50

Jesus reproves and instructs the two disciples
Our Lord, having drawn the prejudices and incredulity from the lips of the two disciples, severely reproves them. O foolish and slow of heart to believe in all things the prophets have spoken. (Lk 24:25)
Severe, but neither bitter nor in anger. The disciples received it with humility; without comment. They felt it was prompted by charity.
Nothing is more fatal than acquisition of bad habits. These slowly become part of ourselves and are very difficult to shake off. Habit becomes second nature. (St Augustine)
We must be vigilant about seemingly innocuous tendencies. Our directors deserve credit for spotting our omissions in time; and if necessary, reprove us before it is too late for correction.
This is a great advantage and we must appreciate it. Let us not imitate the sick man who gets angry with the surgeon, who, to cure him, is often obliged to cause him pain. Receive correction, and, as the two disciples did, without reply, humbly, gratefully, with sincere desire of amendment.
The person at fault should know he is wrong and for which he requires instruction, for correction to be of real service. This was our Lord’s way with the two disciples by explaining that the prophecies about the Messiah contradict their errors on his doctrine of self-denial and humility. He says, "Ought not Christ to have suffered these things, and so to enter into his glory?" (Lk 24:26)
We clearly see the only road to eternal salvation pointed out by the Infallible Word himself: the way of the cross. Should I think myself wiser to deserve an easier way than my Master? By leading a soft life? Isn’t this absurd?
Beginning with Moses and all the prophets, he interpreted the things about him. (cf Lk 24:27) Our Lord could have enlightened them by a single ray of his grace. Why this long exposition of the prophetic writers?
To teach us that we must obtain and preserve the comprehension of doctrinal matters by diligently reading Holy Scripture and spiritual books. Is carelessness in spiritual reading the cause of our want of faith and light?
Ref: Cf "Practical Meditations" by a Father of the Society of Jesus, 1964, pp216-8

• Grant of indulgences by Pope Calixtus III in the year 1455, to whoever visit the cathedral of Arras where a veil and girdle of Our Lady are preserved. — Andreas Herby, from the Manuscripts of the Church of Arras.) (“Catholic Gems or Treasures of the Church” Historical Calendar; www.bethlehemobserver.com)
• Our Lady of Betharam, in the diocese of Lescar, in the province of Bearn. This image was found in the year 1503 by some shepherds who, seeing an extraordinary light on the spot where the high altar of the chapel now stands, came up and found an image of Our Lady, for which they at once erected a chapel. — Triple Couronne. n. 32. (“Catholic Gems or Treasures of the Church” Historical Calendar; www.bethlehemobserver.com)
• Our Lady of Betharam, France (1503). (www/divinewill.org/feastsofourlady.html); (www.iskandar.com/ourlady/ourladyfeasts.html)
• Our Lady of Betharam (Diocese of Lescar: Bearn, France). (maryfest.htm / www.starharbor.com/santiago/m_feasts.html)
• Our Lady of Betharam diocese of Lescar: Bearn France. 1503. (www.miraclehunter.com/marian_apparitions/calendar/index.html)
• “Notre Dame de Betharam”. Diocese of Lescar, Bearn, France. 1503. (www.marylinks.org/Mary-Calendar.htm)
• Our Lady of Splendor (Italy, 1557) (http://mariedenazareth.com)

21 April 2012: We are never alone

In life, there will be no shortage of interior darkness, of misunderstandings. Oftentimes, situations arise wherein we must correct our course because we are lost.
Then we should strive to see Our Lord, who always comes in the trial of suffering. Let us learn to accept the setbacks with faith, as blessings from heaven to purify us and draw us closer to God.
It is enough to be in his company for us to feel secure always. Insecurity arises when our faith is weakened, when we don’t have recourse to Our Lord because it seems that he doesn’t hear us or maybe doesn’t care.
He knows very well what is happening to us. He wants us to go to him and ask for help. He will never leave us alone.
What confidence the words of Jesus contained in the Communion Antiphon should inspire in us: “Father, I desire that they also, whom thou hast given me, may be with me where I am.” (Jn 17:24)
It would seem sometimes of greater or less duration that Christ is not there, as if He had abandoned us or did not hear our prayer. But he is never the one who abandons.
“The Lord looks on those who revere him to rescue their souls from death.” (Ps 32:18-9) If we remain close to Our Lord in personal prayer and the Sacraments, we will be able to do everything.
With Him the storms -- interior or exterior -- are converted into occasions for increasing our faith and hope and charity and fortitude. Eventually, we may come to understand the meaning of these afflictions.
We will emerge from all trials, temptations and tribulations through which we must pass if we are close to Christ, more purified, humbler, and with more love of God. And we shall always be able to count on the help of Our Mother in Heaven. She is there all the time, but especially when for whatever reason we are experiencing difficulties.
“You are not alone. Suffer that tribulation joyfully. It’s true, poor child, that you don’t feel your Mother’s hand in yours. But ... have you never seen the mothers of this earth, with arms outstretched, following their little ones when, without anyone’s help, they venture to take their first shaky steps? You are not alone: Mary is close beside you.” (St Josemaria Escrivá, “The Way”, 900)
Ref: Cf F Fernandez, “In Conversation with God”, 2:377-80

Our Lord appears to two disciples on their way to Emmaus
Towards evening on the day of the Resurrection, two of the disciples were travelling toward Emmaus where one had some property. No doubt they needed some distraction after the sorrowful events. Still, the passion and death of their Master was the only theme during their journey.
We are not forbidden to relax at proper times, or to seek assistance when wearied or sorrowful. These things are not incompatible with a desire for perfection. But where do we seek consolations?
Perhaps, in long and frivolous conversation; in light reading or in risky sensual pleasures. True consolation is not to be found in creatures apart from God.
“While they were talking and discussing, Jesus himself came near and went with them; but their eyes were kept from recognizing him.” (Lk 24:15-6) Why did our Lord join them? To correct their errors, to give them instruction and consolation, and to strengthen them in the right way.
Such should be also the aim of our conversation, even at recreation, at home; or with whom we occasionally meet anywhere. Charity and duty oblige us to try that these persons should be better with our interaction; or at least, derive something good from it.
Jesus “said to them, ‘What are you discussing with each other as you walk, and are sad?’" (cf Lk 24:17) Why did our Lord, who knew the innermost thoughts of men, thus question his disciples? By drawing from their own lips the worldly ideas about the promised Messiah, Jesus wants them to see their errors more clearly and ensure their correction.
Let us learn from this incident how we can best correct the faults of others. We, too, should question them, drawing the words from their own mouths, and showing the gravity and effects of their errors.
They will then be properly disposed to receive correction. We shall have accorded them a lasting benefit. Do we share this wise line of conduct?
Ref: Cf “Practical Meditations” by a Father of the Society of Jesus, 1964, pp212-4

A Path of Faith
Lent is presented ‘in the likeness of a path’, like that to which God called Abraham: “Go forth from the land of your kinsfolk and from your father’s house to a land I will show you.” (Gen 12:1) He set off, without lingering nor any support other than the divine promise.
Lent is a journey for us, too. We are called to face it with determination; to entrust ourselves to the plans God has for us. Even though the journey may be full of trials, St Paul assures us that, like Timothy, each of us is helped by “the strength which comes from God” (2 Tim 1:8).
And the country toward which we are heading is ‘the Christian’s new life’. It is a paschal Life, which can be realized only through the ‘power’ and the ‘grace’ of God: a mysterious power, “the grace held out to us in Christ Jesus before the world began but now made manifest by the appearance of our Savior. He has robbed death of its power and has brought life and immortality into clear light through the gospel.” (2 Tim 1:9-10)
The letter to Timothy also points out that the bread of new life is given to us because of a mysterious calling and assignment on God’s part “not because of any merit of ours but according to His own design” (2 Tim 1:9). So we ought to be men and women of faith, like Abraham; that is, who do not count so much on themselves as on the word, the grace and the power of God.
The Lord Jesus, while living on earth, personally revealed this way to His disciples.
Ref: Cf Pope John Paul II, “Prayers and Devotions”, 1994, pp113-4

Examination of Conscience
235 A daily task. Book-keeping -- never neglected by anyone in business.
And is there any business worth more than that of eternal life? (St Josemaria Escrivá, “The Way”)

237 Examine yourself: slowly, with courage. Isn’t it true that your bad temper and your sadness -- both without cause, without apparent cause -- are due to your lack of determination in breaking the subtle but real snares laid for you -- cunningly and attractively -- by your concupiscence? (St Josemaria Escrivá, “The Way”, )

238 The general examination is a weapon of defense. The particular [examination], of attack. The first is the shield, The second, the sword. (St Josemaria Escrivá, “The Way”)

• Institution of the Confraternity of the Immaculate Conception, at Toledo, in the year 1506, by Cardinal Francis Ximenes, archbishop of that city. — See his Life by Gormez, etc. (“Catholic Gems or Treasures of the Church” Historical Calendar; www.bethlehemobserver.com)
• Institution of the Confraternity of the Immaculate Conception, Toledo, Spain (1506). (www/divinewill.org/feastsofourlady.html); (www.iskandar.com/ourlady/ourladyfeasts.html); (www.miraclehunter.com/marian_apparitions/calendar/index.html)
• Institution of the Confraternity of the Immaculate Conception in 1503. (maryfest.htm / www.starharbor.com/santiago/m_feasts.html)
• Our Lady of the Slap (Italy, 1200) (http://mariedenazareth.com)
• “Notre Dame of Fourviéres” (Lyons, France). Moveable feast -- Saturday after Low Sunday [15 Apr]. (www.marylinks.org/Mary-Calendar.htm); (maryfest.htm / www.starharbor.com/santiago/m_feasts.html); (www.miraclehunter.com/marian_apparitions/calendar/index.html)
• Our Lady of the Pearls. Palermo, Italy. Moveable feast -- Saturday after Low Sunday [15 Apr]. (www.marylinks.org/Mary-Calendar.htm)
• Our Lady of the Valley Catamarca, Argentina. Moveable feast -- Saturday after Low Sunday [15 Apr]. (www.marylinks.org/Mary-Calendar.htm)

20 April 2012: Our Lord appears to St Peter

“Peter ran to the tomb; and stooping down, he saw the linen cloths laid there; then went away wondering to himself at what had come to pass.” (Lk 24:12). Fear and hope, joy and sorrow, love and contrition, contended within his heart.
What an example for us! Often we are alone, working or travelling. In such situations, like St Peter, let us occupy ourself with some mystery of faith, or recall our morning prayer, thereby favorably preparing our heart and mind for the reception of divine grace.
“And he was seen by Cephas.” (1 Cor 15:5) St Paul leaves no doubt that St Peter was the first of the apostles favored by the apparition of their Divine Master.
St John, the beloved disciple, had stood beneath the cross and received the last sigh of his Redeemer. However, he was not favored, but Peter, who had publicly denied him.
We may believe that this appearance was accompanied by the most tender and reassuring words to convince the penitent apostle of his Lord’s full forgiveness for the past.
What conclusion should we draw from our Lord’s behavior to St Peter? That God pardons as God -- ie, “entirely”, without “reserve or remembrance of the past”.
He loves and even caresses the sinner, as if he had never offended him. “For the gifts of God are without repentance.” (Rom 11:29)
No doubt our Lord’s motive in thus first appearing to St Peter was, among others, to restore him in the opinion of the rest, and to preserve his authority as the chief of apostles. We see that St Peter’s testimony was at once received by his brethren, when they affirmed, “The Lord is risen indeed and had appeared to Simon” (Lk 24:34).
Thus he fulfilled the mission his Divine Master confided to him, “And you, being once converted, strengthen your brethren” (Lk 22:32). How good is the Lord to all of us.
Let us praise him and conform ourselves to his example. When it is our duty to correct anyone to whom respect is due, let us keep his position in mind.
Ref: Cf “Practical Meditations” by a Father of the Society of Jesus, 1964, pp210-212

A Tired and Thirsty God
When a Samaritan woman came to draw water, Jesus said to her, ‘Give me a drink’. (Jn 4:7) In a short sketch, St John narrates how Jesus, with a truly divine strategy, succeeded in securing her conversion from a sinful life; and transformed her into an apostolic soul.
The wealth of meaning contained in this episode is infinite. Yet, a careful reading can make us admire the lovable personality of the hard-working Redeemer who spared no effort in seeking sinners and leading them to salvation.
We find Jesus passing through Samaria on his way to Galilee. It was high noon; he had already spent six or seven hours walking. Jesus, tired by the journey, sat straight down by the well. (cf Jn 4:6)
The image of Jesus, exhausted by a long journey, identifies him with us. The God-Man’s weariness should help us bear our own.
We can think of our tired Savior when our job forces us to toil extra hours after a day of intense work. We should remind ourselves that like Christ’s our tiredness has something divine in it, provided it is not the exhaustion of a dissipated life, but the price of serving others and performance of duty.
Jesus’ thirst for souls was greater than his fatigue. His physical thirst offered him the occasion to enter into a dialogue with a poor sinful woman. He wanted to win the respect of this woman through a sign of genuine confidence towards her by asking for some cold water, despite the antipathy between Jews and Samaritans.
When we feel Jesus is asking for things we can give him, in reality he wants us to receive greater benefits from him. In exchange for the mouthful of cold water which he asked of the woman, Jesus made torrents of grace gush forth in her, which cleansed her conscience and transformed her temporal thirst into desires for eternity.
Jesus lays down his demands, but he always gives us more than what he asks. Indeed, when the Lord asks us for something, he is actually offering us a great gift.
Ref: Cf Fr M Guzman, "Encounters With Christ", 1990, pp31-3

The little we do, Our Lord increases
Sometimes, Jesus makes us see the problems are too great for us, that we are helpless. He asks us not to focus on the material resources, because they may only cause us to be pessimistic. Instead, we should rely more on the supernatural means ie, to count on him and his power.
Our Lord wants us to avoid thinking the solution lies in human effort alone. He also wants us to avoid passivity, which under the pretext of total abandonment in God’s hands, converts hope into a disguised spiritual laziness. Jesus asks us for faith, obedience, daring and always to do whatever we can; not to omit available human means.
The farmer, as he proceeds to turn over the furrows of his field, or scatter seed, suffers cold, bears the discomfort of rain, looks at the sky ... sees it overcast, nevertheless, continues sowing. The only thing he fears is he may be held by woes of life and time will go by, leaving him with nothing to harvest. Don’t put it off till later; do your sowing now. (cf St Augustine, Commentary on Psalm 125, 5, PL 36, 164) Do this even if probably the field will not yield anything. Don’t wait until we have all the human means or when all difficulties disappear. On the supernatural plane Our Lord blesses our efforts, multiplies them; always brings fruit.
As in the multiplication of the loaves and fishes Jesus makes use of whatever is available. He added the rest. But he did not wish to do without the human means (in reality he desires our cooperation) although they were few. To count on God always is a good sign of humility.
Ref: Cf F Fernandez, "In Conversation with God", 2:367-70

Supernatural Life
280 If you lose the supernatural meaning of your life, your charity will be philanthropy; your purity, decency; your mortification, stupidity; your discipline, a lash; and all your works, fruitless. (St Josemaria Escrivá, “The Way”)

Mary, Mother of Vocations
2002 Calendar, Rogationist Fathers

• Our Lady of Scheir, in Bavaria. This church was built on the spot where the castle stood, which those of the house of Scheir voluntarily ceded to Our Lady, except Arnaud, who, in punishment of his obstinacy, was drowned in a neighboring lake. — Herith, de origine gentis et principibus Bavariae. (“Catholic Gems or Treasures of the Church” Historical Calendar; www.bethlehemobserver.com)
• Our Lady of Scheir. Bavaria, Germany. (www/divinewill.org/feastsofourlady.html); (www.iskandar.com/ourlady/ourladyfeasts.html); (maryfest.htm / www.starharbor.com/santiago/m_feasts.html); (www.marylinks.org/Mary-Calendar.htm); (www.miraclehunter.com/marian_apparitions/calendar/index.html)
• Our Lady of Sorrows (Quito, Spain) (http://mariedenazareth.com)

19 April 2012: St Peter and St John go to the sepulchre

The apostles reacted differently to the news of the holy women. St Peter and St John half-believed and half-doubted.
“Peter, therefore, went out and that other disciple, and they came to the tomb.” (Jn 20:3) The impulse of reason and conscience prevailed over the words and actions of the others.
How happy should we be if our conduct had been always like theirs, making God, our conscience, and the norms of our vocation the rule of our lives! But, have we often adopted a course of action either from cowardice or human respect and finding excuses in our tepidity?
They both ran together, so eager to reach the tomb, and to discover what had become of their beloved Master. Their love made them run on their way.
Do we fulfill the duties that God and obedience enjoin us with the same promptness and energy? If our conscience bears witness in our favor, it is a proof of fervor.
Rejoice! Otherwise, we have reason to fear, particularly if age or infirmities warn us that our days are numbered; and endeavor to avoid deathbed regrets.
St John, younger and swifter, reached the tomb first. He tells us “he went not in”, out of respect for St Peter, to whom our Lord had given primacy and jurisdiction. To their great surprise, all they found were “the linen cloth and the napkin that had been about his head” (Jn 20:7).
St Peter had sinned grievously by his three-fold denial of Jesus. Still, St John showed honor and respected him as his superior.
This should teach us to overlook the errors and imperfections of directors; but to consider them as representatives of God bearing in mind our Lord’s words, “he that hears you, hears me; and he that despises you, despises me” (Lk 10:16). Do my thoughts, words, and deeds conform to this doctrine?
Ref: Cf “Practical Meditations” by a Father of the Society of Jesus, 1964, pp208-10

Firmness in faith
Despite a severe prohibition from the High Priest and Sanhedrin not to teach at all in the name of Jesus (cf Acts 4:18), the Apostles preached every day more freely and with more determination the doctrine of the faith. And there were many who were converted and baptized.
The Apostles’ disobeying the commands of the Sanhedrin was not a matter of pride or lack of knowledge of social duties towards lawful authority. They resisted them because the council wished to impose on them a command which was against the law of God. They reminded their judges, courageously and simply, that obedience to God comes first.
They were fully convinced that for those who fear God there is no danger but only for those who don’t fear Him (St John Chrysostom, 'Homilies on the Acts of the Apostles', 13); and that it is worse to commit an injustice than to suffer it. The Apostles showed their firmness of faith, how deeply they had absorbed the Master’s teaching after having received the Holy Spirit, and their great regard to God’s honour. (cf 'The Navarre Bible, Acts of the Apostles')
The fortitude and conviction of the first Christians is what Our Lord is also asking from us, when, in certain societies, there is a climate of indifference or even direct attack, often veiled, on true human and Christian values. A well-formed conscience will lead a Christian to be as law-abiding, as he is ready to take a stand on what is against the natural law.
The State is not omnipotent; it is not the source of good and of evil. It is an obligation for Catholics who are present in political institutions to exercise a critical role within their respective institutions so that their programmes and activities correspond every day more to the aspirations and criteria of Christian morality. ... (Spanish Episcopal Conference, 'Witnesses to the living God', 28 June 1985)
The effective protection of basic individual rights, the right to life from the very first moment of conception, the protection of marriage and family, equal opportunities in school and work, freedom of education, speech and religion, personal security, contribution to world peace, all form part of the common good which Christians should defend. (Ibid, 'Catholics in public life', 22 April 1986)
Passivity in such important affairs would really be a lamentable error and omission of the duty to contribute to the common good. They would form part of the sins of omission for which, as well as those of thought, word and deed, we ask Our Lord for pardon at the start of the Mass.
... You as a Christian and perhaps as a research worker, writer, scientist, politician, or labourer, have the duty to sanctify those things. Remember that the whole universe -- as the Apostle says -- is groaning as in the pangs of labour, awaiting the liberation of the children of God. (St Josemaria Escrivá, 'Furrow', 311)
Ref: Cf F Fernandez, 'In Conversation with God', 2:3

The Laity Profess Their Faith
You are the salt of the earth! ... the light of the world. “The Christian vocation is by its very nature a vocation to the apostolate.”
Here is the root of the kernel of announcement and testimony of the Christian faith. Hence, the first attitude assumed by the testifier to the faith is that of professing this same faith which he practices, becoming gently converted by the Spirit of God and conforming one’s life to this Divine Wisdom. ...
We are not proprietors who can do what we like; but are responsible for a gift which must be faithfully transmitted. Only Christ! Let us proclaim him, in thanksgiving and wonder.
In him is already the fullness of what God has prepared for those who love him (1 Cor 2:9). This is the announcement the Church entrusts to all who are called to proclaim, celebrate, communicate and live the infinite Love of the Divine Wisdom.
Ref: Cf 'Prayers and Devotions from Pope John Paul II', pp311-2

Our Lady -- O Mother, Mother! With that word of yours, “Fiat: Be it done” -- you have made us brothers of God and heirs to his glory. Blessed are you! (Cf St Josemaria Escrivá, “The Way”, 512)

Scruples -- Don’t think any more about your fall. Besides overwhelmng and crushing you under its weight, that recollection may easily be an occasion of future temptation. Christ has forgiven you! Forget the “old man” -- your former self. (St Josemaria Escrivá, “The Way”, 261)

Joy -- “The cheerfulness you should have is not the kind we might call physiological -- like that of a healthy animal. Rather, it is the supernatural happiness that comes from the abandonment of everything, including yourself, into the loving arms of our Father God.” (Cf St Josemaria Escrivá, “The Way”, 659)

• Confirmation of the Feast of the Conception of Our Lady, by the Council of Trent, in the year 1545. (“Catholic Gems or Treasures of the Church” Historical Calendar; www.bethlehemobserver.com)
• Confirmation of the Feast of the Immaculate Conception (Council of Trent 1545). (maryfest.htm / www.starharbor.com/santiago/m_feasts.html); (www.miraclehunter.com/marian_apparitions/calendar/index.html)
• Council of Trent confirms the Feast of the Immaculate Conception. 1545. (www.marylinks.org/Mary-Calendar.htm)
• Our Lady of Lyons, France (1643). (www/divinewill.org/feastsofourlady.html); (www.iskandar.com/ourlady/ourladyfeasts.html); (www.miraclehunter.com/marian_apparitions/calendar/index.html); (http://mariedenazareth.com)
• “Notre Dame de Lyons”. France. 1643. (www.marylinks.org/Mary-Calendar.htm)

18 April 2012: Jesus appears to the two other Mary’s

The angel had commanded the holy women to announce the Resurrection to the disciples. Not all three were obliged to return to the city. Mary Magdalene remained by the sepulchre.
The two other Mary’s hastened towards Jerusalem where the disciples were hiding. They quickly left the sepulchre with fear and great joy, running to tell his disciples.
These holy women reacted differently to the angel’s announcement. We acquire merit and reward not from any action by itself; but from the motive and intention.
Suppose, we make a visit to the Blessed Sacrament. A companion performs instead an act of charity. Our merit and reward will be the same if love of God was the common motive.
The prompt obedience of the two Mary’s was extraordinarily rewarded. As they hastened on their way, behold, Jesus met them, saying “‘All hail!’ But they came up and took hold of his feet, and adored him.
Then Jesus said to them, ‘Fear not. Go, tell my brethren that they go to Galilee; there they shall see me’.” (Mt 9:10)
Admire our Lord’s goodness to his loving and obedient servants, the tender sweetness of his words, ‘All hail’, ‘Fear not’; and ‘Tell my brethren’. He calls them such though they had abandoned and even denied him; thus showing his forgiveness and forgetfulness of their past guilt towards him.
The disciples, when they heard the news brought by the holy women, treated them as “idle tales; they believed them not” (Lk 24:11). Yet our Lord had clearly predicted his death and resurrection on the third day.
Were the disciples, then, obstinate unbelievers? No; but their faith was in pieces. They doubted practically rather than systematically.
We believe God sees us always. Yet many things we do displease him greatly! We know the words, “As long as you did it to one of these my least brethren, you did it to me” (Mt 25:40).
We are practical, not systematic unbelievers, as the disciples were. Where will this lead us?
Ref: Cf “Practical Meditations” by a Father of the Society of Jesus, 1964, pp206-8

Jesus Shows Us the Way to Heaven
Through his redemptive work, Jesus has prepared places for us in his Father’s house. Christ’s words are meant also for all those who would believe in him throughout the centuries. The Lord will bring with him to glory those who have believed and have been faithful to him until the end.
How consoling it is for us to hear Jesus speak about God’s rewards! He encourages souls to be generous, even to the point of total renunciation, telling them: You will have treasure in heaven. (cf Mt 19:21)
Even though he reproves selfish ulterior motives in good works such as praying, fasting, and almsgiving, he nevertheless says: Your Father who sees all that is done in secret will reward you. (cf Mt 6:3)
St Augustine tells us: Since your reward will be God himself, you ought to love him in such a way that you do not cease to desire him as the only reward that can satisfy you.
St Josemaria Escrivá wrote in 'The Way' (139): Do everything unselfishly, for pure love, as if there were neither reward nor punishment. But in your heart foster the glorious hope of heaven. (668) It’s good that you serve God as a son, without payment -- generously. But don’t worry if at times you think of the reward. (669) At the time of temptation think of the love that awaits you in heaven: foster the virtue of hope -- it’s not a lack of generosity.
Ref: Cf Fr M Guzman, Encounters With Christ, 1990, pp151-2

Fulfilling our duties
The will of God for us is found principally in the faithful fulfilment of the commandments and the other teachings proposed to us by the Church. We find there what God wishes for us. And in their fulfilment, done with human nobility and with awareness of the constant presence of God, we find God’s love and holiness.
Love for God does not consist in sensible feelings, although Our Lord may give these too so as to help us to be more generous. It is essentially the full identification of our will with that of God.
Love is repaid with love, but it must be genuine love, which is seen in specific ways in fulfilment of our duties towards God and towards others.
Our feelings may not incline us to do this and it may be an uphill struggle. The highest perfection consists not in interior favours or in great raptures, but in the bringing of our wills so closely into conformity with the Will of God that, as soon as we realize that he wills anything, we desire it ourselves with all our might. (St Theresa, 'Book of the Foundations', 5, 10)
True love includes all aspects of our existence, in a true unity of life. It leads us to insert God in everything, which otherwise would be insipid without him. A pious person whose piety is not superficial strives to fulfil his duty: sincere devotion leads to work, to the willing fulfilment of the duties of each day -- even when this is hard; ...
Professional work, human relationships of friendship and companionship, striving -- shoulder to shoulder with our fellow citizens -- to achieve the well-being and progress of society, are the natural fruits, a logical consequence, of this sap of Christ which is the life of our soul. (St Josemaria Escrivá, 'In Memoriam', EUNSA, Pamplona)
As soon as you truly abandon yourself in the Lord, you will know how to be content with whatever happens. You will not lose your peace if your undertakings do not turn out the way you hoped, even if you have put everything into them, used all the means necessary. For they will have turned out the way God wants them to. (St Josemaria Escrivá, 'Furrow', 860)
Let us say to Our Lord: "I want whatever you want, I want because you want, I want as you want, I want as long as you want." ("Roman Missal", 'Prayer of Pope Clement XI') Our Lady who pronounced "be it done unto me according to thy word" (Lk 1:38) and put it into practice, will help us fulfil God’s Will in everything.
Ref: Cf F Fernandez, "In Conversation with God", 2:358-60

Our Lady
“When you see yourself with a dry heart, without knowing what to say, go with confidence to the Virgin Mary. Say to her, ‘My Mother Immaculate, intercede for me’.
“If you invoke her with faith, she will make you taste in the midst of your dryness the proximity of God.”
Ref: Cf St Josemaria Escrivá, “Furrow”, 695)

• Grant of plenary indulgences, by Urban VI, to whoever visit the Church of Our Lady of Loretto. — Balingham on the Calendar. (“Catholic Gems or Treasures of the Church” Historical Calendar; www.bethlehemobserver.com)
• Grant of Plenary Indulgences to whoever visit the Church of Our Lady of Loretto (maryfest.htm / www.starharbor.com/santiago/m_feasts.html)
• Pope Urban VI grants plenary indulgence to those who visit the Church of Our Lady of Loretto (l4th Century). (www/divinewill.org/feastsofourlady.html); (www.iskandar.com/ourlady/ourladyfeasts.html); (www.marylinks.org/Mary-Calendar.htm); (www.miraclehunter.com/marian_apparitions/calendar/index.html)
• Our Lady of Good Health (Italy, 1428) (http://mariedenazareth.com)

17 April 2012: Jesus appears to St Mary Magdalene

The two other Mary's left to announce the joyful news of the Resurrection, but Mary Magdalene stands “weeping outside the sepulchre” (Jn 20:11). Love for the Beloved of her soul, made her stay and caused those tears.
St Mary Magdalene offers us an example of a perfect contemplative. How close are we in being like her?
Despite all our advantages how come we are far from being one? “Because there are few who know how to remove themselves entirely from perishable creatures.” (Thomas à Kempis, “Imitation of Christ”)
St Mary Magdalene, lost in contemplation, remained with her eyes fixed upon the sepulchre. She saw “two angels in white sitting, one at the head, and one at the feet, where the Body of Jesus had been laid. They say to her, ‘Woman, why do you weep?’ She told them, ‘Because they took away my Lord; I know not where they have laid him’.” (Jn 20:13)
The only cause of St Mary Magdalene’s deep affliction was loss of the sensible presence of Jesus. How happy should we be if this were the only, or at least the primary, cause of our sorrows. The loss which once made us rejoice in our vocation; and find peace and consolation in the practice of virtue amidst privations and difficulties!
Jesus had been present invisibly while his faithful servant gave proofs of her love and sorrow. Pleased, he desired to reward her. “... she turned around and saw Jesus standing, she thought he is the gardener ... She said to him, ‘Sir, if you have taken him, tell me where you have laid him, and I will take him away’. Jesus said, ‘Mary!’” (Jn 20:14-6)
At that word she recognized her Lord, and threw herself at his feet. What consoling lessons! He appeared to whom? A penitent sinner!
How did she merit such great favor? The generosity of her love, her share in the Passion, ardent desire of seeing Jesus, and perseverance in seeking him.
Let us also desire to see Jesus glorified in heaven. Tell him often our love and prove it by our generosity in his service. Whatever may have been our past infidelity, we may be certain of a large share in his favors.
Ref: Cf “Practical Meditations” by a Father of the Society of Jesus, 1964, pp204-6

Giving good example
This apostolate of giving doctrine makes us return many times to the same ideas. We must endeavour to present Our Lord’s teaching in an attractive manner.
The crowds today also wander “like sheep without a shepherd” (Mk 6:34), without a guide; don’t know in which direction to go, confused by so many short-lived ideologies.
No Christian should remain passive nor feel inhibited in this great task of doing apostolate. We must not make excuses. (‘I’m no good. I can’t. No time.’)
Apostolate is the Christian vocation, and God gives us the grace to correspond. Are we really a ray of light amidst so much darkness? Or are we bound by laziness or human respect?
We will be more apostolic if we sincerely consider, in the presence of God, that the people whose paths we have crossed had a right to expect from us the help to get to know Jesus better. How have we fulfilled this Christian duty?
Let us hope they will not reproach us, in this life or the next, for having deprived them of that help in words such as -- “... I don’t have anyone to plunge me into the pool ...” (Jn 5:7); I had no one to give me a little light in so much darkness.
“For the word of God is living and active, sharper than any two-edged sword” (Heb 4:12); reaching the very depths of the soul, to the source of men’s life and behaviour.
A great ignorance about Our Lord persists after 20 centuries, even among many Christians! The Second Vatican Council teaches that Revelation came about with deeds and words intrinsically blended. (“Dei Verbum”)
The works of Jesus are those of God done in his name; simple people saying, “We have seen strange things” (Lk 5:26).
“The man who has the mission of saying great things (all Christians have this sweet obligation) is equally obliged to practise them.” (cf St Gregory the Great, “Pastoral Care”, 2, 3)
Our relatives, colleagues, and friends, must find us loyal, sincere, cheerful, optimistic, good at our job, resilient, pleasant, courageous. Simply and naturally, we must make known our faith in Christ.
Ref: Cf F Fernandez, “In Conversation with God”, 2:199-200

The Truth, Source of True Liberty
This marvelous task of liberty is accomplished according to Christ’s program and His Kingdom on the terrain of truth. Being free means achieving the fruits of liberty, acting in the truth.
Also knowing how to yield, how to submit to the truth; not to subject truth to oneself, to one’s fancies and will, to one’s interests at the moment.
Being free is not passive enjoyment, but the labor of liberty. At the price of such effort, man does not ‘waste’; but ‘gathers’ and ‘accumulates’ with Christ.
Man also obtains that unity in himself which is proper to the Kingdom of God. At the same price, too, families, social groups, societies, achieve similar unity: of truth with liberty; and of liberty with truth.
My dear friends! This unity is your particular task, unless you wish to want to surrender to the unity of that other program, that which seeks to accomplish itself in the world, in mankind, in our generation and in each of us, the program of whom Holy Scripture calls the father of lies (cf Jn 8:44).
Do not permit destruction of this interior unity, which, through the Holy Spirit, Christ constructs in the conscience of every one of you. Unity, where liberty grows out of truth; and truth is the measure of liberty.
Learn to think, speak and act according to principles of evangelical simplicity and clarity: Yes, yes; no, no. Learn to call white white, black black -- bad bad, good good.
Ref: Cf “Prayers and Devotions from Pope John Paul II”, 1984, p120

Our Lady
493 Love our Lady. And she will obtain abundant grace to help you conquer in your daily struggle. And the enemy will gain nothing by those perversities that seem to boil up continually within you, trying to engulf in their fragrant corruption the high ideals, those sublime commands that Christ himself has placed in your heart. ‘Serviam!’ -- “I will serve!”
504 The holy Virgin Mary, Mother of fair love, will bring relief to your heart, when it feels as if it’s made of flesh, if you have recourse to her with confidence.
Ref: Cf St Josemaria Escrivá, 'The Way'


• Our Lady of Arabida, in Portugal, where an image is seen which an English merchant used to carry about him. Finding himself one day in danger of shipwreck, he saw this image surrounded with a great light on top of the rock of Arabida, which induced him to build a little hermitage there, in which he spent the remainder of his days. — Triple Couronne, n. 16. (“Catholic Gems or Treasures of the Church” Historical Calendar; www.bethlehemobserver.com)
• Our Lady of Arabida, Portugal (16th Century). (www/divinewill.org/feastsofourlady.html); (www.iskandar.com/ourlady/ourladyfeasts.html); (www.miraclehunter.com/marian_apparitions/calendar/index.html); (http://mariedenazareth.com)
• Our Lady of Arabida (Portugal). (maryfest.htm / www.starharbor.com/santiago/m_feasts.html)
• “Nossa Senhora” / Our Lady of Arabida. Portugal. 16th Century. (www.marylinks.org/Mary-Calendar.htm)
• Our Lady of the Tears. (www.starharbor.com/santiago/m feasts.html)
• The Seven Dolors of Our Lady (traditional). Moveable feast -- Passion Sunday. (www/divinewill.org/feastsofourlady.html); (www.iskandar.com/ourlady/ourladyfeasts.html); (www.miraclehunter.com/marian_apparitions/calendar/index.html)