“Jesus came forward and asked them, ‘Whom do you seek?’ They answered, ‘Jesus of Nazareth’. Jesus replied, ‘I am he’. At his answer, they fell backward to the ground. ‘If therefore, you seek me, let these go away.’
... Simon Peter, having a sword drew it and struck the servant of the high-priest, and cut off his right ear. The name of the servant was Malchus. Jesus, having touched his ear, healed it.” (cf Jn 18:4-8,10)
Why did Jesus multiply proofs of his divinity by wonderful miracles at the start of his Passion? To show that being taken prisoner ‘... was his own will’, as Isaiah had foretold.
Otherwise, how would the martyrs have replied to the insult of their tyrants? What folly to adore a God who was put to death by men! And how could the saints have convinced them that Jesus’ violent death was not due to powerlessness, but his love for the human race?
Let us recognize and appreciate the indulgent goodness of God to men. If Jesus obliges them to humbly believe mysteries which they cannot understand, only because he says so, he helps their belief, not by grace alone, but through miracles which appeal to the senses. All these he is ready to repeat as often as necessary.
How great was the blindness of the Jews! Despite the wonderful miracles which they witnessed, they persevered in their criminal intentions. And because he gave himself up, they thought they had conquered.
There is proof that even miracles do not convert the man who indulges his passions. Passion blinds a man, stifling the voice of reason and conscience. On the other hand, Jesus yields; bound, shoved, struck, and grossly insulted all the way from Gethsemane to Jerusalem.
Recall, then, the end of the promises of the disciples. All had assured their beloved Master that they were determined never to forsake him, to go with him to prison and to death. But as soon as they saw him bound, all shamefully abandoned him and fled.
The words of Jesus were then verified -- “All you shall be scandalized in me this night” (Mt 26:31; Mk 14:27), meaning they would be unfaithful. Seeing him led to prison they lost faith in his divinity, his omnipotence, and left him. For it is written, “I will strike the Shepherd, and the sheep shall be dispersed” (Mt 26:31; Mk 14:27).
Such was the consequence of the Apostles’ presumption, and their neglect of prayer before the struggle, as Jesus had expressly advised them to do.
We condemn the inconstancy and cowardice of the Apostles; blame them for deserting. But we deserve to be condemned, too for habitually being unfaithful to our promises and resolutions; and neglecting to pray.
Ref: cf “Practical Meditations” by a Father of the Society of Jesus, 1964, pp99-101
‘Refugium peccatorum’ (Refuge of sinners)
But now we assure him that we want to follow him closely, to stay with him and not leave him alone, in those moments and in those places when it is not easy to say that we are his disciples. We want to follow him in our work, or studies, on the street; and when we are in the church, with the family; or during healthy recreation. But we know that by ourselves we cannot do anything: with our daily prayers, we can.
Perhaps one of his disciples went in search of the Holy Virgin and told her that they had taken her Son. And she, despite her immense pain, gave them peace in those bitter hours.
We, too can find refuge in her -- ‘Refugium peccatorum’ -- if despite our good intentions we were not brave enough to stand up for the Lord when he was counting on us. In her we will find the necessary strength to remain with the Lord in bad times, and to be reinforced by her in our desire to make amends.
Ref: cf F Fernandez, “In Conversation with God”, 2:246
Entrusting the World to Mary
The Second Vatican Council renewed in us consciousness of the Church and her mission; and also consciousness of a particular relationship between the Church and the contemporary world.
This conciliar program of renewal leads me to add a particular act of entrustment of the contemporary world to the act of entrustment of the Church to the Mother of God and the Mother of the Church which I pronounced last year.
I desire to make reference in this way to the act which Pope Pius XII performed forty and thirty years ago and which was recalled also by Pope Paul VI, when he proclaimed Mary ‘Mother of the Church’ on the occasion of the closure of the third session of the Council.
The contemporary world is threatened in various ways. It is perhaps threatened more than it has been at any other time in the course of history. So it is necessary for the Church to wake and watch at the feet of Him who is the Sole Lord of history and Prince of the age to come.
I, therefore desire to watch and wake together with the whole Church, raising a cry to the Heart of the Immaculate Mother. I invite all to join me in spirit.
Ref: cf Pope John Paul II, “Prayers and Devotions”, 1994, p187
The intercession of our Mother
The Church has always shown us the way to ensure our petitions reach God more promptly through the mediation of Mary, Mother of God. We turn to her now:
· “Remember, O most gracious Virgin Mary, that never was it known, that anyone who fled to thy protection, implored thy help and sought thy intercession, was left unaided. Inspired with this confidence I fly to thee Oh Virgin of virgins, my Mother, to you I come, before you I stand, sinful and sorrowful. Oh Mother of the Word Incarnate, despise not my petitions but in your mercy, hear and answer me. Amen.” [“Memorare” prayer by St Bernard of Clairvaux in “Our Sunday Visitor’s Catholic Encyclopedia”, 1991, pp636-7]
Ref: cf Francis Fernandez, op cit, 54
Our Lady of Virtues, at Lisbon, Portugal — Antonius Vasconcellius in Descriptione regni Lusitaniae, c. 7, § 5. (“Catholic Gems or Treasures of the Church” Historical Calendar; http://www.bethlehemobserver.com); (www.marylinks.org/Mary-Calendar.htm); (maryfest.htm / www.starharbor.com/santiago/m_feasts.html)
Nossa Senhora / Our Lady of Virtues (Lisbon, Portugal) -- The ten principal virtues for which she is known: Purity, Prudence, Humility, Faith, Piety, Obedience, Poverty, Patience, Charity and Compassion. (www.marylinks.org/Mary-Calendar.htm); (www.iskandar.com/ourlady/ourladyfeasts.html)
Our Lady of the Lily. (www.marylinks.org/Mary-Calendar.htm); (maryfest.htm / www.starharbor.com/santiago/m_feasts.html)
Sunday, March 7, 2010
Saturday, March 6, 2010
7 March 2010: The treason of Judas
“As he spoke, Judas, one of the twelve, arrived; with him was a large crowd with swords and clubs ...” (Mt 26:47)
Judas, taught by Jesus for three years, confirmed in the faith by so many miracles, loaded with favors, has become the tool of those who plot the death of his Lord. For thirty pieces of silver he treacherously delivers him into their hands. Such is the depth of blindness into which avarice has slowly plunged Judas!
What revolting hypocrisy! Did Judas believe that he could deceive God, as he had deceived men? How passion blinds its victims!
Everybody detests the crime of Judas; but there are Christians nowadays who renew it by making a sacrilegious Communion [such as receiving the Holy Eucharist when in a state of mortal sin]. They in reality deliver up Jesus under the cloak of piety, to the demons in their hearts.
May God preserve us from such a crime! There are acts of hypocrisy less revolting but which we ought neverthess to fear and detest -- contenting ourselves with exterior virtue and piety, being more careful about duties before colleagues than when alone, alleging false pretexts to attain our ends, etc.
Which is the more wonderful -- the sweetness of Jesus, or hardness of heart of Judas? In addressing Judas, “My friend”, Jesus signified his readiness to pardon him. By asking Judas, “What did you come for?” (Mt 26:50) Jesus wished to help Judas examine himself, to recognize and abhor his crime. But Judas was firm.
Jesus tried again to convert him by showing he knew of his treachery, saying: “Judas, do you betray the Son of Man with a kiss?” (Lk 22:48) All was in vain. He remained obstinate.
The extraordinary gentleness of Jesus ought to redouble our love for him. The unusual hardness of the traitor should fill us with fear and extreme distrust of ourselves, no matter how virtuous we believe we are.
Ref: cf “Practical Meditations” by a Father of the Society of Jesus, 1964, pp96-8
Faithfulness in everyday things
Judas betrays Jesus with a show of friendship. He had allowed his love for the Lord to grow cold. What remained is the mere external appearance of discipleship. His life of loving surrender to God had become a farce. More than once he must have thought it would have been better not to have followed the Lord at all.
Now the miracles, the cures, the happy moments with the Master, his friendship with the other apostles are forgotten. He is now a man who has lost his way, out of touch, capable of committing the madness which for us will be difficult to understand. This act has been preceded by increasingly greater acts of disloyalty; the final result of a long, interior process.
In contrast, perseverance is doing the daily small things with faith; supported by the humility of beginning again when weakness makes us go astray. “A house is not destroyed by a momentary impulse. ... often because of an old defect in its construction. Sometimes prolonged neglect permits water to get in, drop by drop. With time one tiny crack becomes larger, causing considerable damage. In the end, the rain pours in. The result is ruin." (cf Cassian, “Conferences”, 6)
To persevere in our vocation is to respond to our Lord’s repeated calls despite the obstacles and difficulties; sometimes, acts of cowardice and even defeats. As we contemplate these scenes let us examine our faithfulness in the details of our vocation.
Is there any hint of a double life? Am I faithful to my duties? Do I make sure my relationship with the Lord is sincere? Do I avoid becoming attached to material things -- being drawn to the ‘thirty pieces of silver’?
The Christian betrays Jesus by mortal sin. All sin, even venial sin, is inextricably and mysteriously related to the passion of the Lord. Our life is an affirmation or negation of Christ. But even after the most serious offences He is always ready to take us back into his friendship. Judas rejected the hand the Lord held out to him; his life was now ruined.
Ref: cf Francis Fernandez, “In Conversation with God”, 2:241-3
The Value of Ordinary Daily Activity
Consciousness that human labor is participation in God’s work should, as the Second Vatican Council teaches, “permeate 'ordinary daily activities’ as well. When men and women work to gain a living for themselves and their families and carry out their activities in such a way as to do proper service to society as well, they may rightly maintain that they are extending the Creator’s work through their work. ... making themselves useful to their brethren and a personal contribution to accomplishing God’s providential plan in history.”
So it is necessary for this Christian spirituality of labor to become the common heritage of all. There is need for this spirituality to demonstrate, especially in our time, that maturity demanded by tensions and anxieties in minds and hearts.
The knowledge that man participates in the work of creation through his labor is the deepest motivation for starting out in various sectors. “The faithful", we read in the constitution “Lumen Gentium”, “should therefore recognize the intimate nature of all creation, its value, and how it is ordained to praise of God; and they must help each other to live holier lives and also undertake appropriate secular activities, so that the world may be imbued with the spirit of Christ and more effectively attain its goal in justice, in charity and in peace.
“Therefore, with their abilities in worldly disciplines and through their activities they make a valuable contribution to created goods inwardly elevated by the grace of Christ enjoying progress through human labor, technology and the culture of civilization, according to the Creator’s dispositions and in the light of his Word.”
Ref: cf Pope John Paul II, “Prayers and Devotions”, 1994, pp390-91
THE SEVEN SUNDAYS DEVOTION TO ST. JOSEPH -- Honors the seven joys and seven sorrows of St Joseph. (Ref: “Handbook of Prayers”, Fr Charles Belmonte and Fr James Socias (Eds), 1988, pp321-3)
“What must Joseph have been, how grace must have worked through him, that he should be able to fulfill this task of the human upbringing of the Son of God.
“For Jesus must have resembled Joseph: in his way of working, in the features of his character, in his way of speaking. Jesus’ realism, his eye for detail, the way he sat at table and broke bread, his preference for using everyday situations to give doctrine -- all this reflects his childhood and the influence of Joseph.
“It’s not possible to ignore this sublime mystery: Jesus who is man, who speaks with the accent of a particular district of Israel, who resembles a carpenter called Joseph, is the Son of God.”
Ref: St Josemaria Escrivà, “In Joseph’s Workshop” in “Christ is passing by”, 40
The sixth sorrow and joy of St Joseph -- His sorrow when he was afraid to return to his homeland; his joy on being told by the angel to go to Nazareth.
“There he settled in a town called Nazareth. In this way the words spoken through the prophets were to be fulfilled: He will be called a Nazarene.” (Mt 2:23)
“Joseph loved Jesus as a father loves his son and showed his love by giving him the best he had. Joseph, caring for the child as he had been commanded, made Jesus a craftsman, transmitting his own professional skill to him. Jesus worked in Joseph’s workshop and by Joseph’s side.”
Ref: St Josemaria Escrivà, “In Joseph’s Workshop”, 54
Our Lady of the Star at Villa Viciosa, in Portugal, so-called from a star which a shepherd saw shining where the church is built. — Triple Couronne, n. 17. (“Catholic Gems or Treasures of the Church” Historical Calendar; http://www.bethlehemobserver.com); (http://www/divinewill.org/feastofourlady.htm); (www.iskandar.com/ourlady/ourladyfeasts.html); (maryfest.htm / www.starharbor.com/santiago/m_feasts.html); (www.marylinks.org/Mary-Calendar.htm)
Judas, taught by Jesus for three years, confirmed in the faith by so many miracles, loaded with favors, has become the tool of those who plot the death of his Lord. For thirty pieces of silver he treacherously delivers him into their hands. Such is the depth of blindness into which avarice has slowly plunged Judas!
What revolting hypocrisy! Did Judas believe that he could deceive God, as he had deceived men? How passion blinds its victims!
Everybody detests the crime of Judas; but there are Christians nowadays who renew it by making a sacrilegious Communion [such as receiving the Holy Eucharist when in a state of mortal sin]. They in reality deliver up Jesus under the cloak of piety, to the demons in their hearts.
May God preserve us from such a crime! There are acts of hypocrisy less revolting but which we ought neverthess to fear and detest -- contenting ourselves with exterior virtue and piety, being more careful about duties before colleagues than when alone, alleging false pretexts to attain our ends, etc.
Which is the more wonderful -- the sweetness of Jesus, or hardness of heart of Judas? In addressing Judas, “My friend”, Jesus signified his readiness to pardon him. By asking Judas, “What did you come for?” (Mt 26:50) Jesus wished to help Judas examine himself, to recognize and abhor his crime. But Judas was firm.
Jesus tried again to convert him by showing he knew of his treachery, saying: “Judas, do you betray the Son of Man with a kiss?” (Lk 22:48) All was in vain. He remained obstinate.
The extraordinary gentleness of Jesus ought to redouble our love for him. The unusual hardness of the traitor should fill us with fear and extreme distrust of ourselves, no matter how virtuous we believe we are.
Ref: cf “Practical Meditations” by a Father of the Society of Jesus, 1964, pp96-8
Faithfulness in everyday things
Judas betrays Jesus with a show of friendship. He had allowed his love for the Lord to grow cold. What remained is the mere external appearance of discipleship. His life of loving surrender to God had become a farce. More than once he must have thought it would have been better not to have followed the Lord at all.
Now the miracles, the cures, the happy moments with the Master, his friendship with the other apostles are forgotten. He is now a man who has lost his way, out of touch, capable of committing the madness which for us will be difficult to understand. This act has been preceded by increasingly greater acts of disloyalty; the final result of a long, interior process.
In contrast, perseverance is doing the daily small things with faith; supported by the humility of beginning again when weakness makes us go astray. “A house is not destroyed by a momentary impulse. ... often because of an old defect in its construction. Sometimes prolonged neglect permits water to get in, drop by drop. With time one tiny crack becomes larger, causing considerable damage. In the end, the rain pours in. The result is ruin." (cf Cassian, “Conferences”, 6)
To persevere in our vocation is to respond to our Lord’s repeated calls despite the obstacles and difficulties; sometimes, acts of cowardice and even defeats. As we contemplate these scenes let us examine our faithfulness in the details of our vocation.
Is there any hint of a double life? Am I faithful to my duties? Do I make sure my relationship with the Lord is sincere? Do I avoid becoming attached to material things -- being drawn to the ‘thirty pieces of silver’?
The Christian betrays Jesus by mortal sin. All sin, even venial sin, is inextricably and mysteriously related to the passion of the Lord. Our life is an affirmation or negation of Christ. But even after the most serious offences He is always ready to take us back into his friendship. Judas rejected the hand the Lord held out to him; his life was now ruined.
Ref: cf Francis Fernandez, “In Conversation with God”, 2:241-3
The Value of Ordinary Daily Activity
Consciousness that human labor is participation in God’s work should, as the Second Vatican Council teaches, “permeate 'ordinary daily activities’ as well. When men and women work to gain a living for themselves and their families and carry out their activities in such a way as to do proper service to society as well, they may rightly maintain that they are extending the Creator’s work through their work. ... making themselves useful to their brethren and a personal contribution to accomplishing God’s providential plan in history.”
So it is necessary for this Christian spirituality of labor to become the common heritage of all. There is need for this spirituality to demonstrate, especially in our time, that maturity demanded by tensions and anxieties in minds and hearts.
The knowledge that man participates in the work of creation through his labor is the deepest motivation for starting out in various sectors. “The faithful", we read in the constitution “Lumen Gentium”, “should therefore recognize the intimate nature of all creation, its value, and how it is ordained to praise of God; and they must help each other to live holier lives and also undertake appropriate secular activities, so that the world may be imbued with the spirit of Christ and more effectively attain its goal in justice, in charity and in peace.
“Therefore, with their abilities in worldly disciplines and through their activities they make a valuable contribution to created goods inwardly elevated by the grace of Christ enjoying progress through human labor, technology and the culture of civilization, according to the Creator’s dispositions and in the light of his Word.”
Ref: cf Pope John Paul II, “Prayers and Devotions”, 1994, pp390-91
THE SEVEN SUNDAYS DEVOTION TO ST. JOSEPH -- Honors the seven joys and seven sorrows of St Joseph. (Ref: “Handbook of Prayers”, Fr Charles Belmonte and Fr James Socias (Eds), 1988, pp321-3)
“What must Joseph have been, how grace must have worked through him, that he should be able to fulfill this task of the human upbringing of the Son of God.
“For Jesus must have resembled Joseph: in his way of working, in the features of his character, in his way of speaking. Jesus’ realism, his eye for detail, the way he sat at table and broke bread, his preference for using everyday situations to give doctrine -- all this reflects his childhood and the influence of Joseph.
“It’s not possible to ignore this sublime mystery: Jesus who is man, who speaks with the accent of a particular district of Israel, who resembles a carpenter called Joseph, is the Son of God.”
Ref: St Josemaria Escrivà, “In Joseph’s Workshop” in “Christ is passing by”, 40
The sixth sorrow and joy of St Joseph -- His sorrow when he was afraid to return to his homeland; his joy on being told by the angel to go to Nazareth.
“There he settled in a town called Nazareth. In this way the words spoken through the prophets were to be fulfilled: He will be called a Nazarene.” (Mt 2:23)
“Joseph loved Jesus as a father loves his son and showed his love by giving him the best he had. Joseph, caring for the child as he had been commanded, made Jesus a craftsman, transmitting his own professional skill to him. Jesus worked in Joseph’s workshop and by Joseph’s side.”
Ref: St Josemaria Escrivà, “In Joseph’s Workshop”, 54
Our Lady of the Star at Villa Viciosa, in Portugal, so-called from a star which a shepherd saw shining where the church is built. — Triple Couronne, n. 17. (“Catholic Gems or Treasures of the Church” Historical Calendar; http://www.bethlehemobserver.com); (http://www/divinewill.org/feastofourlady.htm); (www.iskandar.com/ourlady/ourladyfeasts.html); (maryfest.htm / www.starharbor.com/santiago/m_feasts.html); (www.marylinks.org/Mary-Calendar.htm)
Friday, March 5, 2010
6 March 2010: Jesus scolds His disciples
“He comes to his disciples, and finds them asleep; ... he said to Peter, ‘So, you could not stay awake with me one hour? ... the spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak’.” (Mt 26:40-41) The reproach surprised the three Apostles. “... they knew not what to answer him” (Mk 14:40). It especially embittered St Peter, who earlier had promised fidelity and constancy; the reason Jesus addressed him personally.
“Simon, I, thy master, have prayed and endured an extreme agony, you have not the courage to watch one hour with me in prayer, though I expressly commanded you to do so. ... Watch and pray, that you enter not into temptation.” (cf Mk 14:38; cf Mt 26:41)
Spiritual lukewarmness is a very dangerous state. Whoever is lukewarm falls into fatal delusions. Intending to do well, and like the Apostles, liberal in grand promises, he falsely equates willing with doing. As if we have the strength to work out our salvation.
Jesus says, “The spirit is indeed willing, but the flesh is weak” (Mt 26:41). That is why he immediately adds, 'Watch and pray'. Be always on your guard, always distrustful of self, always armed with prayer. If not, we will certainly fall under temptation, open to our enemies.
Jesus firmly meets tortures and death, showing the powerful effects of that long and fervent prayer to his Father. We also see, in the shameful flight of the Apostles at the first hint of danger, the loss to the soul which neglects to seek God in fervent prayer.
From prayer we draw the strength needed in times of difficulty. “... leaving them, he went again and prayed ... Then he comes to his disciples, and said to them, ‘Sleep now, take your rest; the hour has come for the Son of Man to be betrayed into the hands of sinners. Rise, let us go; he who will betray me is here.’” (Mk 14:41-2)
Ref: cf “Practical Meditations” by a Father of the Society of Jesus, 1964, p94-6
The Christian meaning of death
Original sin brought with it the loss of friendship with God and the consequent loss of that gift of immortality. Death, the wages of sin (Rom 6:23), entered a world which had been created for living beings. At death, man loses everything he possessed in life. The opportunity to acquire merit for eternal life ends with death. Night comes when no one can work. (Jn 9:4)
Death has been finally conquered with the Resurrection of Christ. Man is no longer a slave to death, but now has dominion over death, if he so chooses. (cf 1 Cor 15:54-8) We achieve this sovereignty insofar as we are united to him who holds the keys of death (Rev 1:18). Sin is the true death -- the soul separated from God.
The moment of death is difficult for every creature. But ever since the Redemption wrought by Christ, death has for us assumed a completely different meaning. No longer a just punishment for sin; but the culmination of our abandonment into the hands of our Redeemer, the passage to a new life of eternal happiness.
Ref: cf Francis Fernandez, “In Conversation with God”, 3:412-5
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
Your Grace Be Upon Us
The Lord Jesus took the path of Lent together with His disciples during His life on earth. He continues to follow it together with His Church. Lent is the period of a particularly intense presence of Christ in the life of the Church. So we ought to try to get closer to Christ in a more special way during this season.
We must live in intimacy with Him, open up our hearts to Him, our consciences: Lord, may your grace be upon us, because we hope in You. Lent is especially a time when grace ought to be ‘over us’ in a particular fashion. Hence, it is necessary for us simply to open up to it.
God’s grace is actually not so much something to be won as something available, like a gift without impediments being raised. This is concretely possible through an attitude of deep prayer; and an attitude of sincere humility, because faith is precisely adherence of heart and mind to the Word of God. Finally, through practice of authentic charity, which should reflect that love the Lord has already made us the object.
Just as the Lord commanded Abraham to set out on his path, so we, too set out once again along this path of Lent at the end of which is the Resurrection. We see that Christ overcomes death and causes life and immortality to shine forth by means of the Gospel.
Ref: Ibid, pp115-6
Our Lady of Nazareth, at Black Rock, in Portugal. This image was honored at Nazareth in the time of the apostles, if we may believe a writing, which was found by a hunter, attached to this image in the year 1150. — Triple Couronne, n. 13. (“Catholic Gems or Treasures of the Church” Historical Calendar; http://www.bethlehemobserver.com)
Our Lady of Nazareth (‘Pierre Noire’, Portugal, 1150) (http://www/divinewill.org/feastofourlady.htm); (www.iskandar.com/ourlady/ourladyfeasts.html); (maryfest.htm / www.starharbor.com/santiago/m_feasts.html)
Nossa Senhora do Nazareth. Pierre-Noire, Portugal. 1150. (www.marylinks.org/Mary-Calendar.htm)
“Simon, I, thy master, have prayed and endured an extreme agony, you have not the courage to watch one hour with me in prayer, though I expressly commanded you to do so. ... Watch and pray, that you enter not into temptation.” (cf Mk 14:38; cf Mt 26:41)
Spiritual lukewarmness is a very dangerous state. Whoever is lukewarm falls into fatal delusions. Intending to do well, and like the Apostles, liberal in grand promises, he falsely equates willing with doing. As if we have the strength to work out our salvation.
Jesus says, “The spirit is indeed willing, but the flesh is weak” (Mt 26:41). That is why he immediately adds, 'Watch and pray'. Be always on your guard, always distrustful of self, always armed with prayer. If not, we will certainly fall under temptation, open to our enemies.
Jesus firmly meets tortures and death, showing the powerful effects of that long and fervent prayer to his Father. We also see, in the shameful flight of the Apostles at the first hint of danger, the loss to the soul which neglects to seek God in fervent prayer.
From prayer we draw the strength needed in times of difficulty. “... leaving them, he went again and prayed ... Then he comes to his disciples, and said to them, ‘Sleep now, take your rest; the hour has come for the Son of Man to be betrayed into the hands of sinners. Rise, let us go; he who will betray me is here.’” (Mk 14:41-2)
Ref: cf “Practical Meditations” by a Father of the Society of Jesus, 1964, p94-6
The Christian meaning of death
Original sin brought with it the loss of friendship with God and the consequent loss of that gift of immortality. Death, the wages of sin (Rom 6:23), entered a world which had been created for living beings. At death, man loses everything he possessed in life. The opportunity to acquire merit for eternal life ends with death. Night comes when no one can work. (Jn 9:4)
Death has been finally conquered with the Resurrection of Christ. Man is no longer a slave to death, but now has dominion over death, if he so chooses. (cf 1 Cor 15:54-8) We achieve this sovereignty insofar as we are united to him who holds the keys of death (Rev 1:18). Sin is the true death -- the soul separated from God.
The moment of death is difficult for every creature. But ever since the Redemption wrought by Christ, death has for us assumed a completely different meaning. No longer a just punishment for sin; but the culmination of our abandonment into the hands of our Redeemer, the passage to a new life of eternal happiness.
Ref: cf Francis Fernandez, “In Conversation with God”, 3:412-5
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
Your Grace Be Upon Us
The Lord Jesus took the path of Lent together with His disciples during His life on earth. He continues to follow it together with His Church. Lent is the period of a particularly intense presence of Christ in the life of the Church. So we ought to try to get closer to Christ in a more special way during this season.
We must live in intimacy with Him, open up our hearts to Him, our consciences: Lord, may your grace be upon us, because we hope in You. Lent is especially a time when grace ought to be ‘over us’ in a particular fashion. Hence, it is necessary for us simply to open up to it.
God’s grace is actually not so much something to be won as something available, like a gift without impediments being raised. This is concretely possible through an attitude of deep prayer; and an attitude of sincere humility, because faith is precisely adherence of heart and mind to the Word of God. Finally, through practice of authentic charity, which should reflect that love the Lord has already made us the object.
Just as the Lord commanded Abraham to set out on his path, so we, too set out once again along this path of Lent at the end of which is the Resurrection. We see that Christ overcomes death and causes life and immortality to shine forth by means of the Gospel.
Ref: Ibid, pp115-6
Our Lady of Nazareth, at Black Rock, in Portugal. This image was honored at Nazareth in the time of the apostles, if we may believe a writing, which was found by a hunter, attached to this image in the year 1150. — Triple Couronne, n. 13. (“Catholic Gems or Treasures of the Church” Historical Calendar; http://www.bethlehemobserver.com)
Our Lady of Nazareth (‘Pierre Noire’, Portugal, 1150) (http://www/divinewill.org/feastofourlady.htm); (www.iskandar.com/ourlady/ourladyfeasts.html); (maryfest.htm / www.starharbor.com/santiago/m_feasts.html)
Nossa Senhora do Nazareth. Pierre-Noire, Portugal. 1150. (www.marylinks.org/Mary-Calendar.htm)
Thursday, March 4, 2010
5 March 2010: Sorrowful Heart of Mary, pray for us!
“Invoke the Heart of Holy Mary, with the purpose and determination of uniting yourself to her sorrow, in reparation for your sins and the sins of men of all times.
“And pray to her -- for every soul -- that her sorrow may increase in us our aversion from sin, and that we may be able to love the physical or moral contradictions of each day as a means of expiation.”
Ref: St Josemaria Escrivá, “Furrow”, 258
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
Necessity and manner of doing penance
God imposes penance as a duty. This command is formal and universal. Except you do penance, you shall perish not ‘perhaps’ or ‘probably’; but simply, ‘you shall all perish’. Why? Because we are sinners!
After losing baptismal innocence our only road to heaven is penance. Again, why? The flesh, ever rebelling against the spirit, inclines us towards sin. Thus, “If by the spirit you mortify ... the flesh, you shall live” (Rom 8:13).
We are then obliged to do penance proportioned to the number and gravity of our sins (cf Council of Trent); and to do it always, but especially during Lent. Whatever our age or vigor, we can do penance in some way.
The desert Fathers, eminent for their penance, did it mainly in ‘fasting, vigils’, and ‘austerities’. On fasting, we can observe it at least partly. We can limit our ordinary food with due discretion to what is absolutely necessary. Or mortify our taste by habitually avoiding treats. Eating less of what we enjoy; more of what we don’t.
We are not obliged to break our sleep to keep vigil in the oratory. But always rise quickly from sleep -- the heroic minute. Let us at least ‘watch’ in our mental prayers, and in all spiritual activities, ‘never’ yielding to sleep or spiritual torpor. This can be a very painful struggle.
An article of faith is, what we have not atoned for in life by penance will be expiated by the fire of purgatory. Therefore, as St Augustine says, ‘do penance, or burn’. We can choose.
To habitually kneel or sit without a comfortable support; to pass through public places without ever satisfying our curiosity, is to do penance; and, if continuous, can become a severe one.
Ref: cf “Practical Meditations” by a Father of the Society of Jesus, 1964, pp91-3
“Father, I have sinned against you ...” (Lk 15:18)
During Lent, the Church ponders these words with particular emotion, since it is the time when the Church more profoundly desires to convert herself to Christ. ‘Without these words there is no conversion in all its interior meaning.’
Without these words, ‘Father, I have sinned’, man cannot truly enter into the Mystery of the Resurrection of Christ, so as to obtain the fruits of Redemption and Grace from them. Those key words show man’s great interior openness to God: ‘Father, I have sinned against you.’
If it is true that sin in a certain sense shuts man off from God, it is likewise true that ‘remorse’ for sins opens up all the greatness and majesty of God, his fatherhood above all, to man’s conscience.
Man remains shut to God so long as the words, ‘Father, I have sinned against you’, are absent from his lips, above all, ... from his conscience, from his ‘heart’.
Being converted to Christ, finding the interior power of His Cross and Resurrection, the full truth of human existence ‘in Christ’, is possible only with this form: ‘Father, I have sinned.’ And only at the cost of them.
In Lent, the Church labors above all that everyone may blame himself / herself for sins before God alone; and may consequently accept the salvific power of the pardon in Christ’s Suffering and Resurrection.
Ref: cf Pope John Paul II, “Prayers and Devotions”, 1994, pp124-5
Prayer for Perseverance
“O ALMIGHTY and most merciful God, Who, according to the multitude of Thy tender mercies, has vouchsafed once more to receive Thy prodigal child, after so many times going astray from Thee, and to admit me to this Sacrament of reconciliation; I give Thee thanks with all the powers of my soul for this and all other mercies, graces, and blessings bestowed on me; and prostrating myself at Thy sacred feet, I offer myself to be henceforth, forever Thine.
“Oh, let nothing in life or death ever separate me from Thee. I renounce with my whole soul all my treasons against Thee; all the abominations and sins of my past life. I renew my promises made in Baptism; from now on, I dedicate myself eternally to Thy love and service.
“Oh, grant that for the time to come I may abhor sin more than death itself, and avoid all such occasions and companies as have unhappily brought me to it. This I resolve to do, by the aid of Thy divine grace, without which I can do nothing. I beg Thy blessing upon these my resolutions, that they may not be ineffectual, like so many others I have formerly made; for, O Lord, without Thee I am nothing but misery and sin. Give me grace to be, now and always a true penitent, through the same Jesus Christ Thy Son. Amen.”
Ref: Very Rev Charles J Callan, OP, STM and Very Rev John A McHugh, OP, STM, “Blessed Be God”, 1925, p30
Our Lady of Good Succor [Good Aid (maryfest.htm / www.starharbor.com/santiago/m_feasts.html)], at Nancy, in Lorraine. This Madonna, it is believed, enabled Rene, Duke of Lorraine, to gain a victory over Charles the Bold, the last Duke of Burgundy. — Triple Couronne, n. 55. (“Catholic Gems or Treasures of the Church” Historical Calendar; http://www.bethlehemobserver.com)
Our Lady of Good Help (Montreal, Canada, 1657) (http://www/divinewill.org/feastofourlady.htm); (www.marylinks.org/Mary-Calendar.htm); (www.iskandar.com/ourlady/ourladyfeasts.html)
“And pray to her -- for every soul -- that her sorrow may increase in us our aversion from sin, and that we may be able to love the physical or moral contradictions of each day as a means of expiation.”
Ref: St Josemaria Escrivá, “Furrow”, 258
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
Necessity and manner of doing penance
God imposes penance as a duty. This command is formal and universal. Except you do penance, you shall perish not ‘perhaps’ or ‘probably’; but simply, ‘you shall all perish’. Why? Because we are sinners!
After losing baptismal innocence our only road to heaven is penance. Again, why? The flesh, ever rebelling against the spirit, inclines us towards sin. Thus, “If by the spirit you mortify ... the flesh, you shall live” (Rom 8:13).
We are then obliged to do penance proportioned to the number and gravity of our sins (cf Council of Trent); and to do it always, but especially during Lent. Whatever our age or vigor, we can do penance in some way.
The desert Fathers, eminent for their penance, did it mainly in ‘fasting, vigils’, and ‘austerities’. On fasting, we can observe it at least partly. We can limit our ordinary food with due discretion to what is absolutely necessary. Or mortify our taste by habitually avoiding treats. Eating less of what we enjoy; more of what we don’t.
We are not obliged to break our sleep to keep vigil in the oratory. But always rise quickly from sleep -- the heroic minute. Let us at least ‘watch’ in our mental prayers, and in all spiritual activities, ‘never’ yielding to sleep or spiritual torpor. This can be a very painful struggle.
An article of faith is, what we have not atoned for in life by penance will be expiated by the fire of purgatory. Therefore, as St Augustine says, ‘do penance, or burn’. We can choose.
To habitually kneel or sit without a comfortable support; to pass through public places without ever satisfying our curiosity, is to do penance; and, if continuous, can become a severe one.
Ref: cf “Practical Meditations” by a Father of the Society of Jesus, 1964, pp91-3
“Father, I have sinned against you ...” (Lk 15:18)
During Lent, the Church ponders these words with particular emotion, since it is the time when the Church more profoundly desires to convert herself to Christ. ‘Without these words there is no conversion in all its interior meaning.’
Without these words, ‘Father, I have sinned’, man cannot truly enter into the Mystery of the Resurrection of Christ, so as to obtain the fruits of Redemption and Grace from them. Those key words show man’s great interior openness to God: ‘Father, I have sinned against you.’
If it is true that sin in a certain sense shuts man off from God, it is likewise true that ‘remorse’ for sins opens up all the greatness and majesty of God, his fatherhood above all, to man’s conscience.
Man remains shut to God so long as the words, ‘Father, I have sinned against you’, are absent from his lips, above all, ... from his conscience, from his ‘heart’.
Being converted to Christ, finding the interior power of His Cross and Resurrection, the full truth of human existence ‘in Christ’, is possible only with this form: ‘Father, I have sinned.’ And only at the cost of them.
In Lent, the Church labors above all that everyone may blame himself / herself for sins before God alone; and may consequently accept the salvific power of the pardon in Christ’s Suffering and Resurrection.
Ref: cf Pope John Paul II, “Prayers and Devotions”, 1994, pp124-5
Prayer for Perseverance
“O ALMIGHTY and most merciful God, Who, according to the multitude of Thy tender mercies, has vouchsafed once more to receive Thy prodigal child, after so many times going astray from Thee, and to admit me to this Sacrament of reconciliation; I give Thee thanks with all the powers of my soul for this and all other mercies, graces, and blessings bestowed on me; and prostrating myself at Thy sacred feet, I offer myself to be henceforth, forever Thine.
“Oh, let nothing in life or death ever separate me from Thee. I renounce with my whole soul all my treasons against Thee; all the abominations and sins of my past life. I renew my promises made in Baptism; from now on, I dedicate myself eternally to Thy love and service.
“Oh, grant that for the time to come I may abhor sin more than death itself, and avoid all such occasions and companies as have unhappily brought me to it. This I resolve to do, by the aid of Thy divine grace, without which I can do nothing. I beg Thy blessing upon these my resolutions, that they may not be ineffectual, like so many others I have formerly made; for, O Lord, without Thee I am nothing but misery and sin. Give me grace to be, now and always a true penitent, through the same Jesus Christ Thy Son. Amen.”
Ref: Very Rev Charles J Callan, OP, STM and Very Rev John A McHugh, OP, STM, “Blessed Be God”, 1925, p30
Our Lady of Good Succor [Good Aid (maryfest.htm / www.starharbor.com/santiago/m_feasts.html)], at Nancy, in Lorraine. This Madonna, it is believed, enabled Rene, Duke of Lorraine, to gain a victory over Charles the Bold, the last Duke of Burgundy. — Triple Couronne, n. 55. (“Catholic Gems or Treasures of the Church” Historical Calendar; http://www.bethlehemobserver.com)
Our Lady of Good Help (Montreal, Canada, 1657) (http://www/divinewill.org/feastofourlady.htm); (www.marylinks.org/Mary-Calendar.htm); (www.iskandar.com/ourlady/ourladyfeasts.html)
Wednesday, March 3, 2010
4 March 2010: Lourdes-- The fifteenth apparition
‘Thursday’, the last of the fifteen meetings promised by the Lady. Word of the apparitions had spread all over France. Commissioner Jacomet, after a minute inspection of the grotto yesterday and this morning, had stationed an impressive contingent of police on the spot. The crowd was estimated at eight- to ten-thousand.
After attending mass for a deceased relative at 6:30 A.M., Bernadette left for the grotto. Two gendarmes helped her through the crowd, her cousin Jeanne Vedere beside her. At the third ‘Ave, Maria’ of the second mystery, she fell into ecstasy which lasted about an hour.
Bernadette received no special revelation. Feeling very sad, she went home but remained calm and collected. That afternoon she told Father Peyramale that she had again asked the Lady’s identity and make the roses bloom. “Aquero” just smiled and insisted on the chapel.
Peyramale was adamant -- if she wanted the chapel she would have to say who she is and provide the funds. Bernadette remained tranquil. She had fulfilled her promise; her fifteen appointments were over.
Ref: G Menotti, “Lourdes”, p12
Agony of Jesus in the Garden of Olives
“Being in an agony, his sweat became as drops of blood trickling down upon the ground.” (Lk 22:44) Jesus, choosing to submit to all humiliations and sorrows, suffered them before his physical exhaustion. An interior struggle between feeling and the will aggravated the agony. A great proof of love and a lesson for us!
The bloody sweat makes us realize the torment in the soul of Jesus during his agony of nearly two hours. It shows his great suffering. He could have avoided this humiliating agony, but desired it for our sake.
The humble petitions of Jesus brought an angel who strengthened his body, fortified his soul, praised his resignation; and showed him all that his passion should do for his Father’s glory and for the happiness of men. What Jesus as man had asked for, was denied him; but his prayer obtained a wonderful consolation.
In trouble and anguished, recourse to God is always fruitful. If a heavy cross burdens us, the angel of divine consolation will shed the unction of grace in our heart. Our soul strengthened and invigorated, the cross becomes light. We will bear it with sweet resignation and sensible joy with a fresh increase of merit.
Ref: cf “Practical Meditations” by a Father of the Society of Jesus, 1964, pp89-91
The need for prayer in order to follow Jesus
Three times he looks for his three disciples to pray with him. Perhaps in that state of helplessness he seeks a touch of human warmth. But his friends abandoned the Friend. A night they should have stayed awake, to have prayed; but they slept. They still did not love enough. Yielding to weakness, they left Jesus alone. The Lord found no support. He had chosen them for this; they had let him down.
We must always pray, but there are times when prayer must be intensified. To abandon it would be like abandoning Christ, leaving ourselves at the mercy of the enemy. “Why do you sleep?” He asks them [and] us, too. “Rise and pray that you may not come into temptation.” (Lk 22:46)
Thus, we say to Jesus: “If you see me asleep, if you discover that I am afraid of pain, if you notice that I stop when I see the cross more closely, Do not leave me! Tell me, as you told Peter, James and John, that you need my affection, my love. Tell me that in order to follow you, in order never to abandon you again into the hands of those who plot your death, I have to overcome my drowsiness, my passions and my comfort ...” (C O’Shea, “The Way of the Cross”)
Jesus wants us to accompany him; “without prayer, how difficult it is to accompany him!” (St Josemaria Escrivá, “The Way”, 89) Our experience tells us so. Yet, through a strong daily relationship with him we can say: “Even if I must die with you, I will not deny you.” (Mk 14:31)
Peter could not fulfil his promise that night. Among other things, he did not persevere in prayer as Jesus had asked. After his repentance, he remained faithful, even dying for his Master years later.
Meditating on this scene in the passion can be of great help in making us strong so as never to omit our daily prayer and to carry out the will of God in the things we find difficult. Lord, may things be done not as I want, but as you want!
Ref: cf Francis Fernandez, “In Conversation with God”, 2:237-9
Prayer Helps Read ‘the Signs of the Times’
Through prayer especially to Jesus at Communion, you will understand so many things about the world and its relationship to him. You will be in a position to read accurately what are referred to as the ‘signs of the times’. Above all, you will have something to offer those who come to you in need.
Through prayer you will possess Christ and be able to communicate him to others, the greatest contribution you can make in your lives: ‘to communicate Christ to the world’.
Through prayer you will receive the strength to resist the spirit of the world. You will receive the power to show compassion to every human being -- just as Jesus did.
Through prayer you will have ‘a part in salvation history’ as it unfolds in your generation. You will be able to enter into the heart of Jesus and understand his feelings towards his Church. ...
Going to Jesus in prayer and through him to the Father, you will always find inspiration in Mary, his Mother. You will learn to pray with her, and with her to await the action of the Holy Spirit in your lives. (cf Acts 1:14)
Ref: cf Pope John Paul II, “Prayers and Devotions:, 1994, pp263-4
St Casimir -- The son of King Casimir IV and Queen Elizabeth, monarchs of Poland and Lithuania. He had a great love for the Eucharist and for the Virgin Mary. Patron saint of Poland. (Fr James Socias, et al [Eds], “Daily Roman Missal”, p1487) He died of lingering tuberculosis at twenty-four years of age. (Rev H Hoever, “Lives of the Saints”)
Our Lady de la Garde, in Aragon, so-called for having preserved from death a child who had fallen into a well, in the year 1221. — Bzovinus, year 1221. (“Catholic Gems or Treasures of the Church” Historical Calendar; http://www.bethlehemobserver.com)
Our Lady of Guard (de la Guard). Aragon, Spain [(maryfest.htm / www.starharbor.com/santiago/m_feasts.html)]; Marseille, France. 1221. (www.marylinks.org/Mary-Calendar.htm)
Our Lady de la Guard (Marseille, France, 1221) (http://www/divinewill.org/feastofourlady.htm); (www.iskandar.com/ourlady/ourladyfeasts.html)
After attending mass for a deceased relative at 6:30 A.M., Bernadette left for the grotto. Two gendarmes helped her through the crowd, her cousin Jeanne Vedere beside her. At the third ‘Ave, Maria’ of the second mystery, she fell into ecstasy which lasted about an hour.
Bernadette received no special revelation. Feeling very sad, she went home but remained calm and collected. That afternoon she told Father Peyramale that she had again asked the Lady’s identity and make the roses bloom. “Aquero” just smiled and insisted on the chapel.
Peyramale was adamant -- if she wanted the chapel she would have to say who she is and provide the funds. Bernadette remained tranquil. She had fulfilled her promise; her fifteen appointments were over.
Ref: G Menotti, “Lourdes”, p12
Agony of Jesus in the Garden of Olives
“Being in an agony, his sweat became as drops of blood trickling down upon the ground.” (Lk 22:44) Jesus, choosing to submit to all humiliations and sorrows, suffered them before his physical exhaustion. An interior struggle between feeling and the will aggravated the agony. A great proof of love and a lesson for us!
The bloody sweat makes us realize the torment in the soul of Jesus during his agony of nearly two hours. It shows his great suffering. He could have avoided this humiliating agony, but desired it for our sake.
The humble petitions of Jesus brought an angel who strengthened his body, fortified his soul, praised his resignation; and showed him all that his passion should do for his Father’s glory and for the happiness of men. What Jesus as man had asked for, was denied him; but his prayer obtained a wonderful consolation.
In trouble and anguished, recourse to God is always fruitful. If a heavy cross burdens us, the angel of divine consolation will shed the unction of grace in our heart. Our soul strengthened and invigorated, the cross becomes light. We will bear it with sweet resignation and sensible joy with a fresh increase of merit.
Ref: cf “Practical Meditations” by a Father of the Society of Jesus, 1964, pp89-91
The need for prayer in order to follow Jesus
Three times he looks for his three disciples to pray with him. Perhaps in that state of helplessness he seeks a touch of human warmth. But his friends abandoned the Friend. A night they should have stayed awake, to have prayed; but they slept. They still did not love enough. Yielding to weakness, they left Jesus alone. The Lord found no support. He had chosen them for this; they had let him down.
We must always pray, but there are times when prayer must be intensified. To abandon it would be like abandoning Christ, leaving ourselves at the mercy of the enemy. “Why do you sleep?” He asks them [and] us, too. “Rise and pray that you may not come into temptation.” (Lk 22:46)
Thus, we say to Jesus: “If you see me asleep, if you discover that I am afraid of pain, if you notice that I stop when I see the cross more closely, Do not leave me! Tell me, as you told Peter, James and John, that you need my affection, my love. Tell me that in order to follow you, in order never to abandon you again into the hands of those who plot your death, I have to overcome my drowsiness, my passions and my comfort ...” (C O’Shea, “The Way of the Cross”)
Jesus wants us to accompany him; “without prayer, how difficult it is to accompany him!” (St Josemaria Escrivá, “The Way”, 89) Our experience tells us so. Yet, through a strong daily relationship with him we can say: “Even if I must die with you, I will not deny you.” (Mk 14:31)
Peter could not fulfil his promise that night. Among other things, he did not persevere in prayer as Jesus had asked. After his repentance, he remained faithful, even dying for his Master years later.
Meditating on this scene in the passion can be of great help in making us strong so as never to omit our daily prayer and to carry out the will of God in the things we find difficult. Lord, may things be done not as I want, but as you want!
Ref: cf Francis Fernandez, “In Conversation with God”, 2:237-9
Prayer Helps Read ‘the Signs of the Times’
Through prayer especially to Jesus at Communion, you will understand so many things about the world and its relationship to him. You will be in a position to read accurately what are referred to as the ‘signs of the times’. Above all, you will have something to offer those who come to you in need.
Through prayer you will possess Christ and be able to communicate him to others, the greatest contribution you can make in your lives: ‘to communicate Christ to the world’.
Through prayer you will receive the strength to resist the spirit of the world. You will receive the power to show compassion to every human being -- just as Jesus did.
Through prayer you will have ‘a part in salvation history’ as it unfolds in your generation. You will be able to enter into the heart of Jesus and understand his feelings towards his Church. ...
Going to Jesus in prayer and through him to the Father, you will always find inspiration in Mary, his Mother. You will learn to pray with her, and with her to await the action of the Holy Spirit in your lives. (cf Acts 1:14)
Ref: cf Pope John Paul II, “Prayers and Devotions:, 1994, pp263-4
St Casimir -- The son of King Casimir IV and Queen Elizabeth, monarchs of Poland and Lithuania. He had a great love for the Eucharist and for the Virgin Mary. Patron saint of Poland. (Fr James Socias, et al [Eds], “Daily Roman Missal”, p1487) He died of lingering tuberculosis at twenty-four years of age. (Rev H Hoever, “Lives of the Saints”)
Our Lady de la Garde, in Aragon, so-called for having preserved from death a child who had fallen into a well, in the year 1221. — Bzovinus, year 1221. (“Catholic Gems or Treasures of the Church” Historical Calendar; http://www.bethlehemobserver.com)
Our Lady of Guard (de la Guard). Aragon, Spain [(maryfest.htm / www.starharbor.com/santiago/m_feasts.html)]; Marseille, France. 1221. (www.marylinks.org/Mary-Calendar.htm)
Our Lady de la Guard (Marseille, France, 1221) (http://www/divinewill.org/feastofourlady.htm); (www.iskandar.com/ourlady/ourladyfeasts.html)
Tuesday, March 2, 2010
3 March 2010: Lourdes-- The fourteenth apparition
‘Wednesday.’ Bernadette, with her mother and faithful aunt Bernarde, left for the grotto at seven in the morning. She had to cross a mass of about three-thousand people to reach her usual place. Despite her prolonged prayers, Bernadette was not awarded with an apparition. Crying, she anxiously thought of reasons for Aquero’s not appearing. Finally, she returned home and went to school.
That afternoon, her uncle advised her to go back to the grotto. On arrival, she found the Lady awaiting her. As soon as she fell into ecstasy, as we read in her memoirs: “... when I was inside the grotto, after reciting the rosary, I asked on behalf of our parish priest, to tell me her name.” The answer she got was a tender smile.
When Peyramale was informed, he was skeptical. While he couldn’t deny that the visions had reawakened religious fervor in Lourdes, the affair was dangerous. Bernadette should stop meeting with a stranger.
If she really wanted a chapel built, she would just have to identify herself and give some sort of sign, for example, make the rose arbor in the grotto bloom. That would certainly be tangible proof of her powers.
Ref: cf G Menotti, “Lourdes”, p12
Prayer of Jesus in the Garden of Olives
Jesus Christ knelt down, hit his face on the earth, and remained prostrate as if unworthy to look to heaven. He thought of the infinite majesty of God to whom he spoke as man bearing the weight of our sins. “My Father, if it be possible, let this chalice pass from me. Nevetheless, not as I will, but as Thou wilt.” (Lk 22:4)
Jesus gives us the example of a heroic resignation. Like us in his human nature, the sight of death, the thought of sufferings and humiliations which will precede it, made him implore his heavenly Father, to spare Him these sacrifices. Still he declared his readiness to endure them if it is His will.
This is how we ought to pray when we ask God to deliver us from anything against our natural inclination. But we should always say ‘Thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven’ in everything we ask for daily.
Jesus interrupted his prayer three times to inquire of his disciples who seemed unaware of the greatest danger. Immediately he went back to pray, and repeated ... ‘not as I will, but thy will be done’.
We learn two things: 1) We ought not to pray too long as to neglect works of charity. Neither must we allow our charitable zeal lead to neglect of prayer. We should sanctify zeal by prayer, and enrich prayer by zealous charitable labors.
2) We ought not to pray with a variety of forms and expressions, nor be weary of repeating our petitions.
In any activity, much prayer should precede action.
Ref: cf Practical Meditations by a Father of the Society of Jesus, 1964, pp87-9
We pray for those who do not like us
A Christian must always have a big heart and show respect for all, even for those who act as enemies, “not because they are brothers, but because brothers they must become; one must show fraternal love towards him who is already a brother, and towards the one who acts as an enemy, so that he may become a brother”. (St Augustine, “Commentary on 1 John”, 4, 10, 7)
This attitude presumes a prayerful life. It distinguishes us from those who refuse to be Christ’s disciples. For “if you love those who love you, what reward do you have? Do not even the Publicans do that? And if you greet only your brethren, what are you doing more than others? Do not even the Gentiles do that?” (Lk 6:32-3; Mt 5:45-6)
Our Faith calls not merely for a correct human behavior, but for living heroic virtues daily. Trusting in everyone’s capacity to rectify his errors, charity will impel us to devote ourselves to prayer, to give good example; and to do apostolate and practise fraternal correction. If at some time we suffer through particularly painful offences, injustices or calumnies, we must ask Our Lady’s help.
Ref: cf Francis Fernandez, "In Conversation with God", 3:342-3
Prayer Transforms Our Lives
Prayer transforms our individual lives and the life of the world. Young men and women, when you meet Christ in prayer, when you get to know his Gospel and reflect on it in relation to your hopes and plan for the future; everything is new ... [and] different when you begin to examine in prayer the circumstances of every day, according to the set of values that Jesus taught.
These values are so clearly stated in the Beatitudes: “Blest are the merciful; they will receive mercy. ... Blest too the peacemakers; they will be called children of God.” (cf Mt 5:7-9)
In prayer, united with Jesus -- your brother, friend, Savior, God -- you begin to breathe a new atmosphere, you form new goals and new ideals. Yes, in Christ you begin to understand yourselves more fully.
This is what the Second Vatican Council wanted to emphasize when it stated: ‘The truth is that only in the mystery of the Incarnate Word does the mystery of man take on light.’ In other words, Christ not only reveals God to man but also reveals man to himself. In Christ we grasp the secret of our own humanity.
But there is more. Through prayer you come ‘to experience the truth that Jesus taught’: “The words that I spoke to you are spirit and life.” (Jn 6:63) In Jesus, whom you get to know in prayer, your dreams for justice and for peace become definite and look for practical applications.
When you are in contact with the Prince of Peace, you understand how totally opposed to his message are violence and terrorism, hatred and war. In him you experience the full meaning of an interpersonal relationship that is based on generous love. Christ offers you a friendship that does not disappoint, a fidelity beyond compare.
Ref: cf Pope John Paul II, “Prayers and Devotions”, 1994, pp262-3
· My Mother and Lady, teach me how to pronounce a ‘yes’ which, like yours, will identify with the cry of Jesus before his Father: “not my will but God’s be done” (Lk 22:42). (St Josemaria Escrivá, “The Way of the Cross” 4th Station, 1)
Our Lady of Angels of Toulouse, France (http://www/divinewill.org/feastofourlady.htm); (www.marylinks.org/Mary-Calendar.htm); (www.iskandar.com/ourlady/ourladyfeasts.html)
Our Lady of Longport, in Valois. This abbey of the Cistercian order was founded in the year 1131 by Josselin, Bishop of Soissons. — Gallia Christiana, t. iv.
(“Catholic Gems or Treasures of the Church” Historical Calendar; http://www.bethlehemobserver.com)
Our Lady of Longpont / Longport. Valois, France. 1131. (www.marylinks.org/Mary-Calendar.htm); (http://www/divinewill.org/feastofourlady.htm); (maryfest.htm / www.starharbor.com/santiago/m_feasts.html); (1131) (www.iskandar.com/ourlady/ourladyfeasts.html)
That afternoon, her uncle advised her to go back to the grotto. On arrival, she found the Lady awaiting her. As soon as she fell into ecstasy, as we read in her memoirs: “... when I was inside the grotto, after reciting the rosary, I asked on behalf of our parish priest, to tell me her name.” The answer she got was a tender smile.
When Peyramale was informed, he was skeptical. While he couldn’t deny that the visions had reawakened religious fervor in Lourdes, the affair was dangerous. Bernadette should stop meeting with a stranger.
If she really wanted a chapel built, she would just have to identify herself and give some sort of sign, for example, make the rose arbor in the grotto bloom. That would certainly be tangible proof of her powers.
Ref: cf G Menotti, “Lourdes”, p12
Prayer of Jesus in the Garden of Olives
Jesus Christ knelt down, hit his face on the earth, and remained prostrate as if unworthy to look to heaven. He thought of the infinite majesty of God to whom he spoke as man bearing the weight of our sins. “My Father, if it be possible, let this chalice pass from me. Nevetheless, not as I will, but as Thou wilt.” (Lk 22:4)
Jesus gives us the example of a heroic resignation. Like us in his human nature, the sight of death, the thought of sufferings and humiliations which will precede it, made him implore his heavenly Father, to spare Him these sacrifices. Still he declared his readiness to endure them if it is His will.
This is how we ought to pray when we ask God to deliver us from anything against our natural inclination. But we should always say ‘Thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven’ in everything we ask for daily.
Jesus interrupted his prayer three times to inquire of his disciples who seemed unaware of the greatest danger. Immediately he went back to pray, and repeated ... ‘not as I will, but thy will be done’.
We learn two things: 1) We ought not to pray too long as to neglect works of charity. Neither must we allow our charitable zeal lead to neglect of prayer. We should sanctify zeal by prayer, and enrich prayer by zealous charitable labors.
2) We ought not to pray with a variety of forms and expressions, nor be weary of repeating our petitions.
In any activity, much prayer should precede action.
Ref: cf Practical Meditations by a Father of the Society of Jesus, 1964, pp87-9
We pray for those who do not like us
A Christian must always have a big heart and show respect for all, even for those who act as enemies, “not because they are brothers, but because brothers they must become; one must show fraternal love towards him who is already a brother, and towards the one who acts as an enemy, so that he may become a brother”. (St Augustine, “Commentary on 1 John”, 4, 10, 7)
This attitude presumes a prayerful life. It distinguishes us from those who refuse to be Christ’s disciples. For “if you love those who love you, what reward do you have? Do not even the Publicans do that? And if you greet only your brethren, what are you doing more than others? Do not even the Gentiles do that?” (Lk 6:32-3; Mt 5:45-6)
Our Faith calls not merely for a correct human behavior, but for living heroic virtues daily. Trusting in everyone’s capacity to rectify his errors, charity will impel us to devote ourselves to prayer, to give good example; and to do apostolate and practise fraternal correction. If at some time we suffer through particularly painful offences, injustices or calumnies, we must ask Our Lady’s help.
Ref: cf Francis Fernandez, "In Conversation with God", 3:342-3
Prayer Transforms Our Lives
Prayer transforms our individual lives and the life of the world. Young men and women, when you meet Christ in prayer, when you get to know his Gospel and reflect on it in relation to your hopes and plan for the future; everything is new ... [and] different when you begin to examine in prayer the circumstances of every day, according to the set of values that Jesus taught.
These values are so clearly stated in the Beatitudes: “Blest are the merciful; they will receive mercy. ... Blest too the peacemakers; they will be called children of God.” (cf Mt 5:7-9)
In prayer, united with Jesus -- your brother, friend, Savior, God -- you begin to breathe a new atmosphere, you form new goals and new ideals. Yes, in Christ you begin to understand yourselves more fully.
This is what the Second Vatican Council wanted to emphasize when it stated: ‘The truth is that only in the mystery of the Incarnate Word does the mystery of man take on light.’ In other words, Christ not only reveals God to man but also reveals man to himself. In Christ we grasp the secret of our own humanity.
But there is more. Through prayer you come ‘to experience the truth that Jesus taught’: “The words that I spoke to you are spirit and life.” (Jn 6:63) In Jesus, whom you get to know in prayer, your dreams for justice and for peace become definite and look for practical applications.
When you are in contact with the Prince of Peace, you understand how totally opposed to his message are violence and terrorism, hatred and war. In him you experience the full meaning of an interpersonal relationship that is based on generous love. Christ offers you a friendship that does not disappoint, a fidelity beyond compare.
Ref: cf Pope John Paul II, “Prayers and Devotions”, 1994, pp262-3
· My Mother and Lady, teach me how to pronounce a ‘yes’ which, like yours, will identify with the cry of Jesus before his Father: “not my will but God’s be done” (Lk 22:42). (St Josemaria Escrivá, “The Way of the Cross” 4th Station, 1)
Our Lady of Angels of Toulouse, France (http://www/divinewill.org/feastofourlady.htm); (www.marylinks.org/Mary-Calendar.htm); (www.iskandar.com/ourlady/ourladyfeasts.html)
Our Lady of Longport, in Valois. This abbey of the Cistercian order was founded in the year 1131 by Josselin, Bishop of Soissons. — Gallia Christiana, t. iv.
(“Catholic Gems or Treasures of the Church” Historical Calendar; http://www.bethlehemobserver.com)
Our Lady of Longpont / Longport. Valois, France. 1131. (www.marylinks.org/Mary-Calendar.htm); (http://www/divinewill.org/feastofourlady.htm); (maryfest.htm / www.starharbor.com/santiago/m_feasts.html); (1131) (www.iskandar.com/ourlady/ourladyfeasts.html)
Monday, March 1, 2010
2 March 2010: Lourdes-- The thirteenth apparition
‘Tuesday.’ This day’s vision was one of the most important of the mystic events. Bernadette reached the grotto already crowded with onlookers. The crowd noticed nothing unusual compared to the previous visions although Bernadette was visibly shaken when she emerged from her ecstasy.
“Aquero” had asked her to tell the priests ‘to come here in procession and to erect a chapel on this spot’. Except for her confessor, Bernadette has never told any priest about the visions; she was a bit taken aback with the idea. After much hesitation, with her aunts, she went to the parish priest, Abbe Peyramale. She told him of the Virgin’s first request.
Receiving a curt reprimand in reply, she forgot about the chapel. The message prompted her dismissal. Though Peyramale had been informed from the first apparition by Bernadette’s confessor (with her permission), he had always kept out of it. He had forbidden the clergy to take part in the Massabielle ‘meetings’, awaiting the end of the excitement.
Bernadette realized her omission but couldn’t go back to Peyramale. Dominiquette Cazenave, one of the most fervent believers in the apparitions and sister of M. Soubiros’ employer, came to her aid. She set a meeting with the parish clergy for that evening. Peyramale, two vicars and Father Pomian listened to Bernadette repeat the request for a chapel.
Repressing his instinctive severity which would only lead to a fit of anger, Peyramale again asked the name of the Lady. Bernadette again answered that she didn’t know. ‘You’ve got to ask her’, he promptly commanded.
Ref: cf G Menotti, “Lourdes”, p11
Affliction of the Soul of Jesus
“My soul is sorrowful, even unto death.” (Mk 14:33) He was overwhelmed with physical sufferings and mental agony of one who suffers a violent death. What caused this deep sorrow?
1) The repulsive sight of the sins of men which his Father had laid on him. He had offered himself as the Victim of universal expiation. 2) The vivid and detailed torments, all the insults, he had to undergo.
Finally, the terrible thought his death will be in vain to a vast number of men who would remain hardened in sin.
How did Jesus respond to this extreme loneliness of his soul? First, he asks his three chosen disciples to share his sorrow, and watch with him. Then he resorted to prayer. Thus he acted as man, to be our model.
Jesus chose to begin his Passion with this total suffering of his soul because he willed to give his heavenly Father a complete satisfaction; and to us, a proof of inifinite love.
Man had sinned by misusing the faculties of his soul before he misused his senses. We thus learn what we may do and ought to do in our interior troubles: we may seek relief in telling a pious and discreet friend; but since what we need is supernatural strength, we ‘ought’ to pray and listen to God.
Ref: cf Practical Meditations by a Father of the Society of Jesus, 1964, pp85-6
Charity is for all times and all circumstances
There is nothing more divine, more Christlike, than the meekness and patience in doing good. (cf St Gregory Nazianzen, "Prayer", 17:9)
“Of all the virtues leading to salvation, let us seek mainly those that benefit our neighbour ... In the things of this world no one lives for himself; all without exception contribute to the common good ... the good of their neighbour. This happens even more fully in the spiritual life ... He who lives only for himself and despises his neighbour is useless, is not a man ....” (St John Chrysostom, “Homilies on St Matthew’s Gospel”, 77:6)
The practice of charity will usually consist in little details: a smile, an encouraging word, a kind gesture. The “eye for an eye and a tooth for a tooth” (Mt 5:38) is not the conduct of a Christian; but to do good always, although occasionally such an attitude will not result in any human gain. At least we will have enriched our hearts.
Charity makes us understanding, ready to forgive, fit to live with everyone; so that “those who think and act differently from us in social, political and even in religious matters will also have a claim on our respect and charity. ... Love and courtesy of this kind should not make us indifferent to truth and goodness. ... But we must distinguish between the error and the one in error ...” (cf Second Vatican Council, "Gaudium et spes", 28)
Ref: cf Francis Fernandez, “In Conversation with God”, 3:340-342
The Spirit of Love and Sharing
The time of Lent was given to us as the Church and through the Church, to purify us of residues of egoism, of excessive attachment to goods ... which keep us far from those with the right to make claims upon us: chiefly those who, physically near or far from us, have no possibility of living as men and women with dignity, as humans created in the image and likeness of God.
So let yourselves be permeated with the spirit of penitence and conversion-- ‘the spirit of love’ and ‘sharing’. In imitation of Christ, bring yourselves close to the poor and those whom the world rejects.
Take part in everything being done in your local church, for Christians and all people of goodwill to be able to bring each of their brethren the means, even the material means, for living worthily, for undertaking their own human and spiritual promotion and that of their families.
May the Lenten collections (for poor countries as well), give you the means to help local churches in even poorer lands through sharing, so they may achieve their mission of being Good Samaritans to those for whom they are directly responsible: the poor, the hungry, victims of injustice and those who cannot yet be responsible for their own development and their own human communities.
Penance, conversion: this is the ‘path’, not a sad but a ‘liberating path, that of our time of Lent’.
If you still ask yourselves, ‘Who is my neighbor?’, you will read the answer on the face of Christ and hear it from his lips: “I assure you, as often as you did it for one of my least brothers, you did it for me.” (Mt 25:40)
Ref: cf Pope John Paul II, “Prayers and Devotions”, 1994, pp147-8
Our Lady of Apparitions, at Madrid, so-called because in the year 1499, the Blessed Virgin appeared during a whole week to a young woman named Yves, and ordered her to build a church in her honor, on the spot where she should find a cross planted to Our Lady. — Life of Blessed Jane. (“Catholic Gems or Treasures of the Church” Historical Calendar; http://www.bethlehemobserver.com)
Our Lady of Apparitions (Madrid, Spain, 1449) (http://www/divinewill.org/feastofourlady.htm); (www.marylinks.org/Mary-Calendar.htm); (maryfest.htm / www.starharbor.com/santiago/m_feasts.html); (www.iskandar.com/ourlady/ourladyfeasts.html)
“Aquero” had asked her to tell the priests ‘to come here in procession and to erect a chapel on this spot’. Except for her confessor, Bernadette has never told any priest about the visions; she was a bit taken aback with the idea. After much hesitation, with her aunts, she went to the parish priest, Abbe Peyramale. She told him of the Virgin’s first request.
Receiving a curt reprimand in reply, she forgot about the chapel. The message prompted her dismissal. Though Peyramale had been informed from the first apparition by Bernadette’s confessor (with her permission), he had always kept out of it. He had forbidden the clergy to take part in the Massabielle ‘meetings’, awaiting the end of the excitement.
Bernadette realized her omission but couldn’t go back to Peyramale. Dominiquette Cazenave, one of the most fervent believers in the apparitions and sister of M. Soubiros’ employer, came to her aid. She set a meeting with the parish clergy for that evening. Peyramale, two vicars and Father Pomian listened to Bernadette repeat the request for a chapel.
Repressing his instinctive severity which would only lead to a fit of anger, Peyramale again asked the name of the Lady. Bernadette again answered that she didn’t know. ‘You’ve got to ask her’, he promptly commanded.
Ref: cf G Menotti, “Lourdes”, p11
Affliction of the Soul of Jesus
“My soul is sorrowful, even unto death.” (Mk 14:33) He was overwhelmed with physical sufferings and mental agony of one who suffers a violent death. What caused this deep sorrow?
1) The repulsive sight of the sins of men which his Father had laid on him. He had offered himself as the Victim of universal expiation. 2) The vivid and detailed torments, all the insults, he had to undergo.
Finally, the terrible thought his death will be in vain to a vast number of men who would remain hardened in sin.
How did Jesus respond to this extreme loneliness of his soul? First, he asks his three chosen disciples to share his sorrow, and watch with him. Then he resorted to prayer. Thus he acted as man, to be our model.
Jesus chose to begin his Passion with this total suffering of his soul because he willed to give his heavenly Father a complete satisfaction; and to us, a proof of inifinite love.
Man had sinned by misusing the faculties of his soul before he misused his senses. We thus learn what we may do and ought to do in our interior troubles: we may seek relief in telling a pious and discreet friend; but since what we need is supernatural strength, we ‘ought’ to pray and listen to God.
Ref: cf Practical Meditations by a Father of the Society of Jesus, 1964, pp85-6
Charity is for all times and all circumstances
There is nothing more divine, more Christlike, than the meekness and patience in doing good. (cf St Gregory Nazianzen, "Prayer", 17:9)
“Of all the virtues leading to salvation, let us seek mainly those that benefit our neighbour ... In the things of this world no one lives for himself; all without exception contribute to the common good ... the good of their neighbour. This happens even more fully in the spiritual life ... He who lives only for himself and despises his neighbour is useless, is not a man ....” (St John Chrysostom, “Homilies on St Matthew’s Gospel”, 77:6)
The practice of charity will usually consist in little details: a smile, an encouraging word, a kind gesture. The “eye for an eye and a tooth for a tooth” (Mt 5:38) is not the conduct of a Christian; but to do good always, although occasionally such an attitude will not result in any human gain. At least we will have enriched our hearts.
Charity makes us understanding, ready to forgive, fit to live with everyone; so that “those who think and act differently from us in social, political and even in religious matters will also have a claim on our respect and charity. ... Love and courtesy of this kind should not make us indifferent to truth and goodness. ... But we must distinguish between the error and the one in error ...” (cf Second Vatican Council, "Gaudium et spes", 28)
Ref: cf Francis Fernandez, “In Conversation with God”, 3:340-342
The Spirit of Love and Sharing
The time of Lent was given to us as the Church and through the Church, to purify us of residues of egoism, of excessive attachment to goods ... which keep us far from those with the right to make claims upon us: chiefly those who, physically near or far from us, have no possibility of living as men and women with dignity, as humans created in the image and likeness of God.
So let yourselves be permeated with the spirit of penitence and conversion-- ‘the spirit of love’ and ‘sharing’. In imitation of Christ, bring yourselves close to the poor and those whom the world rejects.
Take part in everything being done in your local church, for Christians and all people of goodwill to be able to bring each of their brethren the means, even the material means, for living worthily, for undertaking their own human and spiritual promotion and that of their families.
May the Lenten collections (for poor countries as well), give you the means to help local churches in even poorer lands through sharing, so they may achieve their mission of being Good Samaritans to those for whom they are directly responsible: the poor, the hungry, victims of injustice and those who cannot yet be responsible for their own development and their own human communities.
Penance, conversion: this is the ‘path’, not a sad but a ‘liberating path, that of our time of Lent’.
If you still ask yourselves, ‘Who is my neighbor?’, you will read the answer on the face of Christ and hear it from his lips: “I assure you, as often as you did it for one of my least brothers, you did it for me.” (Mt 25:40)
Ref: cf Pope John Paul II, “Prayers and Devotions”, 1994, pp147-8
Our Lady of Apparitions, at Madrid, so-called because in the year 1499, the Blessed Virgin appeared during a whole week to a young woman named Yves, and ordered her to build a church in her honor, on the spot where she should find a cross planted to Our Lady. — Life of Blessed Jane. (“Catholic Gems or Treasures of the Church” Historical Calendar; http://www.bethlehemobserver.com)
Our Lady of Apparitions (Madrid, Spain, 1449) (http://www/divinewill.org/feastofourlady.htm); (www.marylinks.org/Mary-Calendar.htm); (maryfest.htm / www.starharbor.com/santiago/m_feasts.html); (www.iskandar.com/ourlady/ourladyfeasts.html)
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