Jesus had clearly explained the necessity of forgiving and the gross injustice of those who refuse to do so. But he wished to emphasize it further by a parable.
The kingdom of heaven is likened to “a king who decided to settle the accounts of his servants. One was brought to him who owed ten-thousand pieces of gold. As he could not pay, the king ordered that he be sold, with his wife, children and all he had as payment. The servant, on his knees, pleaded, saying, ‘Have patience with me and I will pay you all’. The king, moved with pity, let him go; even forgave his debt.” (cf Mt 18:23-7)
This king, who so unexpectedly took account with his servants, represents to us the King of kings who will take account with us at the always uncertain moment of our death. Are we ready for it? In this immense debt of the thousand talents, we see to what sum in God’s eyes, the sins, the faults of every day amount.
Are we trying to reduce our debt by the many means in our power or continue to increase it? In the readiness of the king to forgive the enormous debt of his faithless servant, we see how easy it is to move our Judge, and discharge our debts now. How foolish, then for us to keep them for the next, for purgatory!
“This servant then left his generous master and found one of his companions who owed him a mere fraction of what he owed. He seized and choked him saying, ‘Pay me what you owe’. His companion dropped to his knees and pleaded, ‘Just give me time and I will pay you’. But he refused. Instead, he had him put in jail until he paid back all his debt.” (cf Mt 18:28-30)
Jesus evidently, wishes to show us how unjust and ungrateful we should be if, after the pardon of our many and great offences, we are unwilling to forgive those who have injured us.
Are we one of those who always nourish some ill-will against whoever have injured or humbled us; who avoid their presence? Or cool and distant towards them? Do we expect others to put up with everything from us; but make no allowance for their feelings?
Informed, “The king called him and said, ‘Wicked servant, I forgave all you owed when you begged me to do so. Should you not have had pity on your companion as I had pity on you?’ In anger the king handed him over to the court until he paid all his debt. So will my Father in heaven do with you unless each of you sincerely forgives his brothers.” (cf Mt 18:31-5)
Let these words sink into our hearts. They will soften or silence anger and revenge at the time of trial.
Ref: cf “Practical Meditations” by a Father of the Society of Jesus, 1964, pp584-6
Conversion Goes by Way of the Cross
To be converted to God, in an essential way, we must return to that 'principle' which is: at the beginning is human sin and death, which results from it. We must regain consciousness of sin, which has become the beginning of every sin on earth, which has become the lasting foundation and source of man’s sinfulness.
That original sin actually remains in the whole human race. It is the inheritance of the first Adam in us. And even though cancelled by Baptism through the operation of Christ, “the final Adam” (1 Cor 15:45), it leaves its effects in each of us.
Being converted to God, as the Church desires means getting to the roots of the tree, which, as the Lord says, “is not fruitful” (Mt 3:10). There is no other way of healing man. So, to ‘be converted’ in the way the Church expects of us, we must return to that ‘principle’, that ‘beginning’, which is “you are dust, and you shall return to dust”, so as to find ourselves again in the ‘new Beginning’ of Christ’s Resurrection and Grace.
So the way passes through Good Friday. It passes beneath the Cross. There is no other way of full ‘conversion’. Upon this unique road, we are awaited by Him whom the Father, through Love, “made him ... to be sin”, although he had not known sin, “so that in him we might become the very holiness of God” (2 Cor 5:21).
Let us take this road of conversion and reconciliation with God, by collaborating in a particular fashion with Christ, through prayer, almsgiving and fasting.
“A clean heart create for me, O God, and a steadfast spirit renew within me.” (Ps 51:12)
Ref: cf “Prayers and Devotions from Pope John Paul II”, p138
Concern for our neighbor’s spiritual welfare
If the greatest misfortune, the worst tragedy that can befall anyone is to be separated from God, then the greatest work of mercy we can do is to bring relatives and friends to the life-giving fountains of the Sacraments, especially to Confession.
True compassion begins with concern for the state of their soul, which with the help of grace we have to try to remedy. All kinds of moral suffering invite our compassion. And so from the earliest times the Church has always held in high esteem the work of ‘instructing the ignorant’.
God asks us to be compassionate in all situations in life. If called upon to judge our neighbor, we must do so from the most favorable angle. “Even though you see something very bad about your neighbor, don’t jump to conclusions, but rather make excuses for him interiorly. Excuse his intention, if you cannot excuse his action.
"Think that he may have acted out of ignorance, or by surprise, or accidentally. If the thing cannot be denied, believe it to be so, and say inwardly: the temptation must have been very strong.” (cf St Bernard, “Sermon on the Canticle of Canticles”, 40)
We must frequently remember that if we are merciful, we will obtain from God that mercy we need so much for ourselves, particularly for those weaknesses, errors and failings He understands so well. That confidence in God’s infinite compassion will make us remain always very close to him.
Our Lady, ‘Queen and Mother of Mercy’, will give us a humane heart in treating all who suffer at our side.
Ref: cf F Fernandez, “In Conversation with God”, 4:521; 524
Our Lady of Good Tidings, at Orleans, built by King Robert in the year 996 on the very spot where he learnt the good news that his father, Hugo, had escaped death. Locrius, Maria Augustae, lib. iv., c. 62. “Catholic Gems or Treasures of the Church” Historical Calendar; (http://www.bethlehemobserver.com)
Our Lady of Good News. Orleans, France; Sicily, Italy. [See November 19, December 12] (www.marylinks.org/Mary-Calendar.htm)
Our Lady of Good News (Orleans, France). (maryfest.htm / www.starharbor.com/santiago/m_feasts.html)
Our Lady of Good News, Sicily. (www.iskandar.com/ourlady/ourladyfeasts.html)
Our Lady of the Rocks. Pasto, Colombia. (www.marylinks.org/Mary-Calendar.htm);(maryfest.htm / www.starharbor.com/santiago/m_feasts.html)
Our Lady of Help (Socorro: Colombia, South America). (maryfest.htm / www.starharbor.com/santiago/m_feasts.html); (www.marylinks.org/Mary-Calendar.htm)
Our Lady of Consolation, Malta. [See June 20.] Moveable feast-- 3rd Thursday of September. (www.marylinks.org/Mary-Calendar.htm)
‘Birhen sa Kasilak’ (“The 2002 Catholic Directory of the Philippines”, p247)
Thursday, September 16, 2010
15 September 2010: Memorial -- Our Lady of Sorrows
This feast originates in that Christian devotion which associates her with the ‘Passion of her Son’. St Pius X fixed the feast on this day, within the octave of the Nativity of our Blessed Mother who teaches us to live, with her, beside the Cross of her Son. In her suffering as co-redeemer, she reminds us of the dreadful malice of sin; shows us the way to true repentance. (Fr James Socias, et al [Eds], “Daily Roman Missal”, 1989, p1638)
The ‘Order of Servites of the Blessed Virgin Mary’ venerate the Blessed Virgin as Our Lady of Sorrows. (Ibid, op cit, 1483)
Our Lady of Turumba
Legend: This heavy image was taken out of Laguna de Bay. It could not be carried to Pakil, Laguna until the people sang and danced the ‘turumba’. (Nicanor G Tiongson, in “Filipino Heritage”, 1977, VII:1734)
Feast of the Dolours of Our Blessed Lady
Let us enter into the spirit of the Church this day, and fix our thoughts exclusively on Our Lady’s sufferings on our account and for us. To understand in some measure how much she suffers, we must conceive the idea of a mother, the tenderest of mothers, who loves nothing so much as her son, her only son.
She is forced to see this Son, the greatest of the children of men, die in his prime, by no natural death; but by the hand of the executioner. Surrounded by an angry mob, nailed living on a cross, after having been covered with wounds from head to foot, crowned with thorns. To behold him struggling for three long hours, unable to at least assuage his agony!
Did any mother ever suffer such a martyrdom? But what exceeds our comprehension is, she endured it for thirty-three years, knowing all its aspects from Simeon’s prophecy. Aptly does the Church style her ‘Queen of martyrs’, applying the Psalmist’s words: ‘My life is wasted with grief and my years in sighs.’
Let us think of this when looking at the picture of Our Lady by the foot of the cross, and we shall find our hearts filled with love, compassion, and childlike devotion. We shall account our sufferings but trifles, and gain courage to bear or surmount them.
How did Our Lady endure so many and so great sufferings? With -- 1) perfect resignation and no word of complaint;
2) admirable conformity to all the designs of Almighty God in the cruel and ignominious death of her Son;
3) generosity apparently impossible in a mother;
4) constancy beyond heroism, standing beneath the cross till Jesus breathed his last sigh; and
5) invincible sweetness and charity, joining her Divine Son in praying for his murderers.
Mary is here the Queen and pattern of martyrs. Have we conformed to her example in our slight sufferings? Why did God will that Our Lady’s whole life should be spent in suffering? She had nothing to atone for!
The Fathers of the Church reply: to merit the title, ‘Queen of all saints’, she was obliged to surpass them in resemblance to her Son, so pre-eminently the Man of Sorrows. In love of God, which is proved by suffering for him. In merit, which is gained also by suffering; and in sacrifice, for the greater glory of God and the salvation of souls.
If God, wishing to bestow a mark of his peculiar love upon Our Lady, could not find anything more precious than the cross, must we consider ourselves miserable when he gives us a share in it also, even if he desire we carry it to the end? If so, he only treats us as he did her whom he loved best.
Let that thought console us, and let us carry our cross willingly after our dearest Mother.
Ref: cf “Practical Meditations” by a Father of the Society of Jesus, 1964, pp166-8
Sanctifying our sufferings
Today’s feast is opportune for us to accept all our adversities as personal purification, and to co-redeem with Christ. Mary our Mother teaches us not to complain amidst trials as we know she never would. She encourages us to unite our sufferings to the sacrifice of her Son, and so offer them as spiritual gifts for the benefit of our family, the Church, and all humanity.
The suffering we must endure and sanctify often consists in small daily disappointments. Common examples are unexpected periods of waiting, sudden changes of plans, and projects that do not turn well. Or setbacks like reduced opportunities for a job to support our family. In these instances, the virtue of detachment is a great means to identify with Christ.
Mary was present when her Son was stripped of his tunic which she had sewn. With her as our model we will find consolation and the inspiration to strive forward with peace and serenity.
Sickness may come unexpectedly. In such an event we will ask for grace to welcome it as a ‘divine caress’ and we will give thanks for the gift of health we took for granted. We can grow in ‘faith’, because we learn to better perceive the provident hand of our Father God at work both in sickness and in health.
Our ‘hope’ can be strengthened since we entrust ourselves more into the Lord’s hands at a time of great need. ‘Charity’ can grow too, if we offer our situation with exemplary joy. We can realize that God permits it for our greater good.
A mother always understands her children and consoles them in their troubles. Mary is our spiritual Mother. We sanctify our sufferings through recourse to the Blessed Virgin, ‘Comforter of the afflicted’.
Ref: cf F Fernandez, “In Conversation with God”, 7:150-52
Octave of the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin, instituted on occasion of some disputes, which arose on the election of a successor to Celestin IV, by the intrigues of the Emperor Frederick II, which caused the cardinals to have recourse to Our Lady, obliging themselves, by vow, to add an octave to her Nativity, when she should have given them a pope. Innocent IV, having been elected, he instituted this octave in the year 1243, the first of his pontificate. — Amoldus Wionius, tib. v., Ligni vitae, c. 22. “Catholic Gems or Treasures of the Church” Historical Calendar; http://www.bethlehemobserver.com)
Our Lady of Sorrows. The Seven Sorrows of the Blessed Virgin Mary.(www.marylinks.org/Mary-Calendar.htm)
Feast: Seven Sorrows of Mary. (Presentation, Flight into Egypt, Loss in the Temple, Way of the Cross, Jesus dying on the Cross, Jesus laid in Her arms, Jesus laid in the Tomb). (www.iskandar.com/ourlady/ourladyfeasts.html)
Our Lady of Sorrows. (maryfest.htm / www.starharbor.com/santiago/m_feasts.html)
Our Lady ‘de las Angustias’ (Granada, Spain). (maryfest.htm / www.starharbor.com/santiago/m_feasts.html)
Our Lady of Aranzazu / ‘Nuestra Señora de las Angustias’. Granada, Spain.(www.marylinks.org/Mary-Calendar.htm); (maryfest.htm / www.starharbor.com/santiago/m_feasts.html)
The ‘Order of Servites of the Blessed Virgin Mary’ venerate the Blessed Virgin as Our Lady of Sorrows. (Ibid, op cit, 1483)
Our Lady of Turumba
Legend: This heavy image was taken out of Laguna de Bay. It could not be carried to Pakil, Laguna until the people sang and danced the ‘turumba’. (Nicanor G Tiongson, in “Filipino Heritage”, 1977, VII:1734)
Feast of the Dolours of Our Blessed Lady
Let us enter into the spirit of the Church this day, and fix our thoughts exclusively on Our Lady’s sufferings on our account and for us. To understand in some measure how much she suffers, we must conceive the idea of a mother, the tenderest of mothers, who loves nothing so much as her son, her only son.
She is forced to see this Son, the greatest of the children of men, die in his prime, by no natural death; but by the hand of the executioner. Surrounded by an angry mob, nailed living on a cross, after having been covered with wounds from head to foot, crowned with thorns. To behold him struggling for three long hours, unable to at least assuage his agony!
Did any mother ever suffer such a martyrdom? But what exceeds our comprehension is, she endured it for thirty-three years, knowing all its aspects from Simeon’s prophecy. Aptly does the Church style her ‘Queen of martyrs’, applying the Psalmist’s words: ‘My life is wasted with grief and my years in sighs.’
Let us think of this when looking at the picture of Our Lady by the foot of the cross, and we shall find our hearts filled with love, compassion, and childlike devotion. We shall account our sufferings but trifles, and gain courage to bear or surmount them.
How did Our Lady endure so many and so great sufferings? With -- 1) perfect resignation and no word of complaint;
2) admirable conformity to all the designs of Almighty God in the cruel and ignominious death of her Son;
3) generosity apparently impossible in a mother;
4) constancy beyond heroism, standing beneath the cross till Jesus breathed his last sigh; and
5) invincible sweetness and charity, joining her Divine Son in praying for his murderers.
Mary is here the Queen and pattern of martyrs. Have we conformed to her example in our slight sufferings? Why did God will that Our Lady’s whole life should be spent in suffering? She had nothing to atone for!
The Fathers of the Church reply: to merit the title, ‘Queen of all saints’, she was obliged to surpass them in resemblance to her Son, so pre-eminently the Man of Sorrows. In love of God, which is proved by suffering for him. In merit, which is gained also by suffering; and in sacrifice, for the greater glory of God and the salvation of souls.
If God, wishing to bestow a mark of his peculiar love upon Our Lady, could not find anything more precious than the cross, must we consider ourselves miserable when he gives us a share in it also, even if he desire we carry it to the end? If so, he only treats us as he did her whom he loved best.
Let that thought console us, and let us carry our cross willingly after our dearest Mother.
Ref: cf “Practical Meditations” by a Father of the Society of Jesus, 1964, pp166-8
Sanctifying our sufferings
Today’s feast is opportune for us to accept all our adversities as personal purification, and to co-redeem with Christ. Mary our Mother teaches us not to complain amidst trials as we know she never would. She encourages us to unite our sufferings to the sacrifice of her Son, and so offer them as spiritual gifts for the benefit of our family, the Church, and all humanity.
The suffering we must endure and sanctify often consists in small daily disappointments. Common examples are unexpected periods of waiting, sudden changes of plans, and projects that do not turn well. Or setbacks like reduced opportunities for a job to support our family. In these instances, the virtue of detachment is a great means to identify with Christ.
Mary was present when her Son was stripped of his tunic which she had sewn. With her as our model we will find consolation and the inspiration to strive forward with peace and serenity.
Sickness may come unexpectedly. In such an event we will ask for grace to welcome it as a ‘divine caress’ and we will give thanks for the gift of health we took for granted. We can grow in ‘faith’, because we learn to better perceive the provident hand of our Father God at work both in sickness and in health.
Our ‘hope’ can be strengthened since we entrust ourselves more into the Lord’s hands at a time of great need. ‘Charity’ can grow too, if we offer our situation with exemplary joy. We can realize that God permits it for our greater good.
A mother always understands her children and consoles them in their troubles. Mary is our spiritual Mother. We sanctify our sufferings through recourse to the Blessed Virgin, ‘Comforter of the afflicted’.
Ref: cf F Fernandez, “In Conversation with God”, 7:150-52
Octave of the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin, instituted on occasion of some disputes, which arose on the election of a successor to Celestin IV, by the intrigues of the Emperor Frederick II, which caused the cardinals to have recourse to Our Lady, obliging themselves, by vow, to add an octave to her Nativity, when she should have given them a pope. Innocent IV, having been elected, he instituted this octave in the year 1243, the first of his pontificate. — Amoldus Wionius, tib. v., Ligni vitae, c. 22. “Catholic Gems or Treasures of the Church” Historical Calendar; http://www.bethlehemobserver.com)
Our Lady of Sorrows. The Seven Sorrows of the Blessed Virgin Mary.(www.marylinks.org/Mary-Calendar.htm)
Feast: Seven Sorrows of Mary. (Presentation, Flight into Egypt, Loss in the Temple, Way of the Cross, Jesus dying on the Cross, Jesus laid in Her arms, Jesus laid in the Tomb). (www.iskandar.com/ourlady/ourladyfeasts.html)
Our Lady of Sorrows. (maryfest.htm / www.starharbor.com/santiago/m_feasts.html)
Our Lady ‘de las Angustias’ (Granada, Spain). (maryfest.htm / www.starharbor.com/santiago/m_feasts.html)
Our Lady of Aranzazu / ‘Nuestra Señora de las Angustias’. Granada, Spain.(www.marylinks.org/Mary-Calendar.htm); (maryfest.htm / www.starharbor.com/santiago/m_feasts.html)
Monday, September 13, 2010
14 September 2010: Feast -- The Triumph of the Cross
The public veneration of the Holy Cross dates from the 4th century. The Church commemorates the rescue of the true Cross of Christ by Emperor Heraclius in a victory over the Persians. Our Mother the Church sings of the triumph of the Holy Cross, the instrument of our salvation.
In order to follow Christ, the Christian must take up his cross and become obedient with Christ, who was obedient until death, even death on the Cross. We are identified with Christ on the Cross. We become co-redeemers, sharing in Christ’s Cross.
Ref: Fr James Socias, et al (Eds), “Daily Roman Missal”, 1989, p1635
The Exaltation of the Holy Cross
‘We adore You, O Christ, and we praise You, because by Your Holy Cross You have redeemed the world.’
We adore you, Jesus Christ! We bend our knees. We do not find enough words or gestures to express the veneration with which your Cross fills us, with which the gift of the Redemption penetrates us, offered to all mankind, to one and all, through the total and unconditional subjection of your will to the Will of the Father.
He revealed the Father’s love in his love. From the height of the cross he has the right to speak to people of all times and say, “Whoever has seen me has seen the Father” (Jn 14:9).
Through his death, he revealed to us that there is Love in the world: ‘Love stronger than death ...’ He opened the way of hope to us. We desire, O Christ, to cry out to this merciful power, the greatest power and force upon which man can rely. Have pity.
Let the power of your love show itself again to be greater than the evil around us. Let it be shown to be greater than the many sins which usurp to themselves in ever more absolute ways public rights of citizenship in the life of men and society. May the power of your Cross, O Christ, be seen to be greater than the author of sin, “this world’s prince” (Jn 12:32). Through your Blood and Suffering you redeemed the world. Amen.
Ref: cf “Prayers and Devotions from Pope John Paul II”, pp325-6
The origin of the feast day
Through the Passion of Our Lord, the Cross became a throne of glory not a gallows of infamy. How radiant is that precious Cross which brought us our salvation. Through the cross we are victorious. With the cross we shall reign. By the cross all evil is extinct. “Alleluia!” (“Liturgy of the Hours”, “Lauds prayer”)
This feast began in the first centuries of Christianity. Ancient evidence is it began when the Cross of Our Lord was found. (cf Egeria, “Journey”, Madrid 1980)Developing quickly in the Eastern Church, it soon spread throughout all Christendom.
In Rome there was a solemn procession from the Basilica of St Mary Major to that of St John Lateran to venerate the Holy Cross before Mass. (cf A G Martimort, “The Church in prayer”, Barcelona 1987)
At the beginning of the seventh century the Persians ransacked Jerusalem. They destroyed many churches and seized sacred relics. Some years later Emperor Heraclius recovered them. According to pious tradition, the monarch, dressed in full regalia, personally wanted to carry the Holy Cross to its original place on Calvary. The weight became increasingly unbearable as he walked on the ‘Via Dolorosa’.
The Bishop of Jerusalem, Zechariah, explained to him that to carry the Cross he must imitate the poverty of Christ, who bore it without any earthly attachment. Heraclius immediately removed his imperial garments and put on humble pilgrim’s clothes. He was then able to carry the Holy Cross to the summit of Golgotha. (cf P Croisset, “Christians”, Madrid 1846, VII)
Most probably as children, we learned to make the sign of the Cross on our forehead, lips and heart as an external sign of our profession of faith. The Church makes use of the Cross on its altars during worship for the Liturgy and outside, on sacred buildings, too.
As a ‘tree of the most savoury fruit’ it is a powerful weapon for warding off all kinds of evil, and especially for instilling fear in the spiritual foes of our salvation: ‘Lord, through the sign of the Holy Cross free us from our enemies’, we pray daily before blessing ourselves.
A Church Father teaches: “The Cross is a shield against the devil as well as a trophy of victory. It is the promise that we will not be overcome by the Angel of Death (Exod 9:12). The Cross is God’s instrument to lift up those who have fallen and to support those still on their feet fighting. It is a crutch for the crippled and a guide for the wayward.
"It is our constant goal as we advance, the very wellspring of our body and soul. It drives away all evils, annihilates sin and draws down for us abundant graces. This is indeed the seed of the Resurrection and the tree of eternal life.” (St John Damascene, “De fide orthodoxa”, IV, 11)
The Cross is present in our lives in different ways: through sickness, poverty, tiredness, pain, scorn, or loneliness. Although often hard to bear at times, it can become a source of purification, Life, and joy if embraced with love.
Embracing the Cross should lead us never to complain when confronting difficulties, and even to thank God for the failures, suffering, and setbacks that purify us. Such adversities are additional occasions for drawing us closer to God.
St Paul frequently reminds us that tribulation is always brief and endurable. The prize for suffering out of love for Christ is eternal and satisfying. He even glories in them, considering himself blessed to be able to unite his own suffering to the sacrifice of Jesus Christ. Thus he helps bring the Lord’s Passion to completion for the good of the Church and of souls. (cf Rom, 7:18; Gal, 2:19-20; 6; 14; et seq)
We end this prayer with Our Lady: “'Sorrowful Heart of Mary, pray for us.' Invoke the Heart of Mary. Have the purpose and determination of uniting yourself to her sorrow in reparation for your sins and the sins of all men. 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 suffering of each day as a means of expiation.” (St Josemaria Escrivá, “Furrow”, 258)
Ref: cf F Fernandez, “In Conversation with God”, 7:140-42
Dedication of Our Lady of Frontevrault, in Poitou, by Pope Calixtus II in the year 1129. — Gallia Christiana. “Catholic Gems or Treasures of the Church” Historical Calendar; http://www.bethlehemobserver.com) [France. (www.marylinks.org/Mary-Calendar.htm)]
Our Lady of Fontevrault (France). (maryfest.htm / www.starharbor.com/santiago/m_feasts.html)
Our Lady of Einsiedeln. Switzerland. (www.marylinks.org/Mary-Calendar.htm); (www.iskandar.com/ourlady/ourladyfeasts.html)
In order to follow Christ, the Christian must take up his cross and become obedient with Christ, who was obedient until death, even death on the Cross. We are identified with Christ on the Cross. We become co-redeemers, sharing in Christ’s Cross.
Ref: Fr James Socias, et al (Eds), “Daily Roman Missal”, 1989, p1635
The Exaltation of the Holy Cross
‘We adore You, O Christ, and we praise You, because by Your Holy Cross You have redeemed the world.’
We adore you, Jesus Christ! We bend our knees. We do not find enough words or gestures to express the veneration with which your Cross fills us, with which the gift of the Redemption penetrates us, offered to all mankind, to one and all, through the total and unconditional subjection of your will to the Will of the Father.
He revealed the Father’s love in his love. From the height of the cross he has the right to speak to people of all times and say, “Whoever has seen me has seen the Father” (Jn 14:9).
Through his death, he revealed to us that there is Love in the world: ‘Love stronger than death ...’ He opened the way of hope to us. We desire, O Christ, to cry out to this merciful power, the greatest power and force upon which man can rely. Have pity.
Let the power of your love show itself again to be greater than the evil around us. Let it be shown to be greater than the many sins which usurp to themselves in ever more absolute ways public rights of citizenship in the life of men and society. May the power of your Cross, O Christ, be seen to be greater than the author of sin, “this world’s prince” (Jn 12:32). Through your Blood and Suffering you redeemed the world. Amen.
Ref: cf “Prayers and Devotions from Pope John Paul II”, pp325-6
The origin of the feast day
Through the Passion of Our Lord, the Cross became a throne of glory not a gallows of infamy. How radiant is that precious Cross which brought us our salvation. Through the cross we are victorious. With the cross we shall reign. By the cross all evil is extinct. “Alleluia!” (“Liturgy of the Hours”, “Lauds prayer”)
This feast began in the first centuries of Christianity. Ancient evidence is it began when the Cross of Our Lord was found. (cf Egeria, “Journey”, Madrid 1980)Developing quickly in the Eastern Church, it soon spread throughout all Christendom.
In Rome there was a solemn procession from the Basilica of St Mary Major to that of St John Lateran to venerate the Holy Cross before Mass. (cf A G Martimort, “The Church in prayer”, Barcelona 1987)
At the beginning of the seventh century the Persians ransacked Jerusalem. They destroyed many churches and seized sacred relics. Some years later Emperor Heraclius recovered them. According to pious tradition, the monarch, dressed in full regalia, personally wanted to carry the Holy Cross to its original place on Calvary. The weight became increasingly unbearable as he walked on the ‘Via Dolorosa’.
The Bishop of Jerusalem, Zechariah, explained to him that to carry the Cross he must imitate the poverty of Christ, who bore it without any earthly attachment. Heraclius immediately removed his imperial garments and put on humble pilgrim’s clothes. He was then able to carry the Holy Cross to the summit of Golgotha. (cf P Croisset, “Christians”, Madrid 1846, VII)
Most probably as children, we learned to make the sign of the Cross on our forehead, lips and heart as an external sign of our profession of faith. The Church makes use of the Cross on its altars during worship for the Liturgy and outside, on sacred buildings, too.
As a ‘tree of the most savoury fruit’ it is a powerful weapon for warding off all kinds of evil, and especially for instilling fear in the spiritual foes of our salvation: ‘Lord, through the sign of the Holy Cross free us from our enemies’, we pray daily before blessing ourselves.
A Church Father teaches: “The Cross is a shield against the devil as well as a trophy of victory. It is the promise that we will not be overcome by the Angel of Death (Exod 9:12). The Cross is God’s instrument to lift up those who have fallen and to support those still on their feet fighting. It is a crutch for the crippled and a guide for the wayward.
"It is our constant goal as we advance, the very wellspring of our body and soul. It drives away all evils, annihilates sin and draws down for us abundant graces. This is indeed the seed of the Resurrection and the tree of eternal life.” (St John Damascene, “De fide orthodoxa”, IV, 11)
The Cross is present in our lives in different ways: through sickness, poverty, tiredness, pain, scorn, or loneliness. Although often hard to bear at times, it can become a source of purification, Life, and joy if embraced with love.
Embracing the Cross should lead us never to complain when confronting difficulties, and even to thank God for the failures, suffering, and setbacks that purify us. Such adversities are additional occasions for drawing us closer to God.
St Paul frequently reminds us that tribulation is always brief and endurable. The prize for suffering out of love for Christ is eternal and satisfying. He even glories in them, considering himself blessed to be able to unite his own suffering to the sacrifice of Jesus Christ. Thus he helps bring the Lord’s Passion to completion for the good of the Church and of souls. (cf Rom, 7:18; Gal, 2:19-20; 6; 14; et seq)
We end this prayer with Our Lady: “'Sorrowful Heart of Mary, pray for us.' Invoke the Heart of Mary. Have the purpose and determination of uniting yourself to her sorrow in reparation for your sins and the sins of all men. 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 suffering of each day as a means of expiation.” (St Josemaria Escrivá, “Furrow”, 258)
Ref: cf F Fernandez, “In Conversation with God”, 7:140-42
Dedication of Our Lady of Frontevrault, in Poitou, by Pope Calixtus II in the year 1129. — Gallia Christiana. “Catholic Gems or Treasures of the Church” Historical Calendar; http://www.bethlehemobserver.com) [France. (www.marylinks.org/Mary-Calendar.htm)]
Our Lady of Fontevrault (France). (maryfest.htm / www.starharbor.com/santiago/m_feasts.html)
Our Lady of Einsiedeln. Switzerland. (www.marylinks.org/Mary-Calendar.htm); (www.iskandar.com/ourlady/ourladyfeasts.html)
Sunday, September 12, 2010
13 September 2010: Rules for correction and forgiveness
Jesus talked to his Apostles about these rules all the way from Capharnaum to Jerusalem. Lest this denunciation of scandal-givers should cause the Apostles to hate them, he emphasized that his law was a law of love; that we ought to pity and pray for whoever offend us.
That we should exert every effort to bring them to a better frame of mind, especially by a brotherly correction. He thought so highly of this matter that he gave them detailed directions concerning it.
“If your brother has sinned against you, go and speak to him alone. If he listens to you, you have won your brother. If he does not listen to you, take with you two or more so the case may be decided by the evidence of two or three witnesses. If he still refuses to listen to them, tell the Church. But if he will not hear the Church, let him be as a pagan or a publican.” (Mt 18:15-7)
Our Lord seems to point out how we should deal with trouble-makers, especially innovators. First, we ought to reprove them in private for their errors or scandals. If this fails, they should be reproved before witnesses; even denounce them. If they persist, they must be condemned.
Magnify the wisdom of this rule which for twenty centuries has preserved intact the faith and unity of the Church. How often and how should we forgive?
The Apostles seemed to think Jesus was not clear about these points. In their behalf, Peter asked, “Lord, how many times must I forgive the offenses of my brother? Seven times? Jesus told him, ‘Not seven times; but seventy times seven times’.” (cf Mt 18:21-2) That is, always; always from the bottom of our heart.
If we carry out our Lord’s directions we shall only be doing to our brother what Jesus himself does to us through his minister in the confessional. We present ourselves there so often, and as often, accuse ourselves of the same faults. And yet he has always forgiven us, and is always ready to do so again, if he sees that we are sincerely humble and contrite.
Let us bless and magnify our Lord’s inexhaustible goodness, patience, and generosity mindful of our unwillingness to forgive the little wrongs we have received; we who have wronged him so terribly.
Ref: cf “Practical Meditations” by a Father of the Society of Jesus, 1964, pp581-3
Fraternal Correction: A Christian Duty
God wants us to love our neighbor and desire his welfare, especially his eternal happiness. We cannot remain indifferent towards a person who places himself in peril of damnation or who is not as good as he ought to be. We cannot afford to just close our eyes when we see a relative, friend, colleague or acquaintance whose behavior harms himself and others.
Correcting someone means telling that person face to face about something he is doing and ought not to be doing. It is not synonymous with insulting someone with ill-chosen words simply because that person has annoyed us or has damaged our good name, or has put an obstacle before our personal interests. Obviously, the latter is instead a way of sowing resentment, justifying revenge; sinning against charity.
A person who fulfills the Lord’s precept of fraternal correction does not think of himself but of the other person, whom he sees as a brother. He does not think of his self-interest or his own reputation, but of the genuine interests and reputation of the other person. He keeps in his heart a strong, exquisite love, a deep and genuine friendship which is not afraid of duty; and Christian fortitude, a solid, cardinal virtue.
If we want to fulfill the Christian duty of making fraternal correction, we must beware of a serious fear of displeasing people. A great deal of harm can result by avoiding telling another person simply because it may sound unpleasant. Some may see their friends’ mistakes or know they are about to commit a sin but prefer not not to make any move to lead their friends to more upright ways. They can hardly be called ‘friends’.
The desire not to displease people can lead to grievous sins of omission, especially when by our silence, a person carries out seriously evil deeds.
Ref: cf Fr M Guzman, “Encounters with Christ”, 1990, pp100-01
The Sacrament of Penance and our being merciful to others
God pardons those who pardon others. The mercy we show to others is the same mercy that will be shown to us. ... Through his Death on the Cross, Christ has made all men brothers in a new creation.
God’s mercy is matchless. True mercy belongs to humble souls who understand how much they have been forgiven. “Just as the Lord is always ready to forgive us, so we must always be ready to forgive one another. ... That is why the special sacrament of the Church for forgiveness, the Sacrament of Penance, is such a precious gift from the Lord.
“... God extends his forgiveness to us in a very personal way. Through the ministry of the priest, we come to our loving Saviour with the burden of our sins. We confess we have sinned against God and our neighbor. We manifest our sorrow and ask pardon from the Lord. ... through the priest, we hear Christ say to us: ‘Your sins are forgiven’ (Mk 2:5); ‘Go, and do not sin again’ (Jn 8:11). ...” (John Paul II, “Angelus”, 16 September 1984)
A magnificent school of love and generosity, this sacrament of reconciliation renews the soul and vivifies its capacity for pardon. (cf F Sopena, “Confession”, Madrid 1957) “The Church must profess and proclaim God’s mercy in all its truth, as it has been handed down to us by revelation.” (John Paul II, Encyclical, “Dives in misericordia”, 30 November 1980, 13) This is every Christian’s task. It is especially urgent nowadays.
Let us ask Our Lady for a magnanimous heart like hers. She can help us avoid grieving over disappointments and injuries. We must also continually grow in our spirit of reparation to the merciful Heart of Jesus.
Ref: cf F Fernandez, “In Conversation with God”, 5:1.1, 1.3
Our Lady of Guadalupe, in Spain. This image, which Pope Gregory sent to St Leander, Bishop of Seville, was concealed on the invasion of the Moors with the body of St Fulgentius, in the cave of Guadalupe, where it remained nearly six-hundred years, until Our Lady revealed it to a shepherd. — Mariana, History of Spain. “Catholic Gems or Treasures of the Church” Historical Calendar; http://www.bethlehemobserver.com); (www.marylinks.org/Mary-Calendar.htm)
Another feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe (in Spain). (maryfest.htm / www.starharbor.com/santiago/m_feasts.html)
Our Lady of Guadalupa, Spain (1100’s). (www.iskandar.com/ourlady/ourladyfeasts.html)
Maria Zell / Our Lady of Zell. Austria. (www.marylinks.org/Mary-Calendar.htm); (maryfest.htm / www.starharbor.com/santiago/m_feasts.html); (www.iskandar.com/ourlady/ourladyfeasts.html)
Our Lady of Siluva. Lithuania. 1608. (www.marylinks.org/Mary-Calendar.htm)
Our Lady of the Gate (“The 2002 Catholic Directory of the Philippines”, p123)
That we should exert every effort to bring them to a better frame of mind, especially by a brotherly correction. He thought so highly of this matter that he gave them detailed directions concerning it.
“If your brother has sinned against you, go and speak to him alone. If he listens to you, you have won your brother. If he does not listen to you, take with you two or more so the case may be decided by the evidence of two or three witnesses. If he still refuses to listen to them, tell the Church. But if he will not hear the Church, let him be as a pagan or a publican.” (Mt 18:15-7)
Our Lord seems to point out how we should deal with trouble-makers, especially innovators. First, we ought to reprove them in private for their errors or scandals. If this fails, they should be reproved before witnesses; even denounce them. If they persist, they must be condemned.
Magnify the wisdom of this rule which for twenty centuries has preserved intact the faith and unity of the Church. How often and how should we forgive?
The Apostles seemed to think Jesus was not clear about these points. In their behalf, Peter asked, “Lord, how many times must I forgive the offenses of my brother? Seven times? Jesus told him, ‘Not seven times; but seventy times seven times’.” (cf Mt 18:21-2) That is, always; always from the bottom of our heart.
If we carry out our Lord’s directions we shall only be doing to our brother what Jesus himself does to us through his minister in the confessional. We present ourselves there so often, and as often, accuse ourselves of the same faults. And yet he has always forgiven us, and is always ready to do so again, if he sees that we are sincerely humble and contrite.
Let us bless and magnify our Lord’s inexhaustible goodness, patience, and generosity mindful of our unwillingness to forgive the little wrongs we have received; we who have wronged him so terribly.
Ref: cf “Practical Meditations” by a Father of the Society of Jesus, 1964, pp581-3
Fraternal Correction: A Christian Duty
God wants us to love our neighbor and desire his welfare, especially his eternal happiness. We cannot remain indifferent towards a person who places himself in peril of damnation or who is not as good as he ought to be. We cannot afford to just close our eyes when we see a relative, friend, colleague or acquaintance whose behavior harms himself and others.
Correcting someone means telling that person face to face about something he is doing and ought not to be doing. It is not synonymous with insulting someone with ill-chosen words simply because that person has annoyed us or has damaged our good name, or has put an obstacle before our personal interests. Obviously, the latter is instead a way of sowing resentment, justifying revenge; sinning against charity.
A person who fulfills the Lord’s precept of fraternal correction does not think of himself but of the other person, whom he sees as a brother. He does not think of his self-interest or his own reputation, but of the genuine interests and reputation of the other person. He keeps in his heart a strong, exquisite love, a deep and genuine friendship which is not afraid of duty; and Christian fortitude, a solid, cardinal virtue.
If we want to fulfill the Christian duty of making fraternal correction, we must beware of a serious fear of displeasing people. A great deal of harm can result by avoiding telling another person simply because it may sound unpleasant. Some may see their friends’ mistakes or know they are about to commit a sin but prefer not not to make any move to lead their friends to more upright ways. They can hardly be called ‘friends’.
The desire not to displease people can lead to grievous sins of omission, especially when by our silence, a person carries out seriously evil deeds.
Ref: cf Fr M Guzman, “Encounters with Christ”, 1990, pp100-01
The Sacrament of Penance and our being merciful to others
God pardons those who pardon others. The mercy we show to others is the same mercy that will be shown to us. ... Through his Death on the Cross, Christ has made all men brothers in a new creation.
God’s mercy is matchless. True mercy belongs to humble souls who understand how much they have been forgiven. “Just as the Lord is always ready to forgive us, so we must always be ready to forgive one another. ... That is why the special sacrament of the Church for forgiveness, the Sacrament of Penance, is such a precious gift from the Lord.
“... God extends his forgiveness to us in a very personal way. Through the ministry of the priest, we come to our loving Saviour with the burden of our sins. We confess we have sinned against God and our neighbor. We manifest our sorrow and ask pardon from the Lord. ... through the priest, we hear Christ say to us: ‘Your sins are forgiven’ (Mk 2:5); ‘Go, and do not sin again’ (Jn 8:11). ...” (John Paul II, “Angelus”, 16 September 1984)
A magnificent school of love and generosity, this sacrament of reconciliation renews the soul and vivifies its capacity for pardon. (cf F Sopena, “Confession”, Madrid 1957) “The Church must profess and proclaim God’s mercy in all its truth, as it has been handed down to us by revelation.” (John Paul II, Encyclical, “Dives in misericordia”, 30 November 1980, 13) This is every Christian’s task. It is especially urgent nowadays.
Let us ask Our Lady for a magnanimous heart like hers. She can help us avoid grieving over disappointments and injuries. We must also continually grow in our spirit of reparation to the merciful Heart of Jesus.
Ref: cf F Fernandez, “In Conversation with God”, 5:1.1, 1.3
Our Lady of Guadalupe, in Spain. This image, which Pope Gregory sent to St Leander, Bishop of Seville, was concealed on the invasion of the Moors with the body of St Fulgentius, in the cave of Guadalupe, where it remained nearly six-hundred years, until Our Lady revealed it to a shepherd. — Mariana, History of Spain. “Catholic Gems or Treasures of the Church” Historical Calendar; http://www.bethlehemobserver.com); (www.marylinks.org/Mary-Calendar.htm)
Another feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe (in Spain). (maryfest.htm / www.starharbor.com/santiago/m_feasts.html)
Our Lady of Guadalupa, Spain (1100’s). (www.iskandar.com/ourlady/ourladyfeasts.html)
Maria Zell / Our Lady of Zell. Austria. (www.marylinks.org/Mary-Calendar.htm); (maryfest.htm / www.starharbor.com/santiago/m_feasts.html); (www.iskandar.com/ourlady/ourladyfeasts.html)
Our Lady of Siluva. Lithuania. 1608. (www.marylinks.org/Mary-Calendar.htm)
Our Lady of the Gate (“The 2002 Catholic Directory of the Philippines”, p123)
Saturday, September 11, 2010
12 September 2010: ‘Woe to that man by whom scandal comes.’
The sweet innocence of the little child Jesus set in the midst of the Apostles as their example caused him to denounce those who scandalize others, especially children. Listen to his words: “Whoever causes one of these little ones who believe in me to sin, it would be better for him to be thrown into the depths of the sea with a great millstone around his neck.” (Mt 18:6)
“Woe to the world because of scandals.” (Mt 18:7) He knew the vices of the world. “If scandal must come, woe to that man by whom the scandal comes.” (Mt 18:8)
We would share our Lord’s indignation against scandal, and those who give it; and we would feel the horror he wishes us to feel, if we reflected on its malice and dreadful consequences. ‘Sinful above measure.’
The Church Fathers, too, speak in equally severe terms of those who give scandal, calling them emissaries of the devil -- devils incarnate. They lead others into sin as much or even more than the devil does.
Assassins of the soul, a thousandfold more guilty than murderers. Antichrists, undoing the work of Christ. A living plague, spreading infection and death.
Have we given scandal or been scandalized ourself? Is scandal impossible? We may not directly intend leading others into sin, but if (as St Thomas says), by word, act, or omission we become an occasion of sin to another, we are guilty of scandal. There is laxity if we fail to correct abuses in our group; disorders follow and go beyond remedy.
Have we been in some way, guilty of scandal? If we have, seek pardon for it. Do our best to repair the mischief we have done. On the other hand, never let a bad example influence us. Follow rather the saints, who drew good out of evil by redoubling their efforts to avoid the sins they saw in others.
Ref: “Practical Meditations” by a Father of the Society of Jesus, 1964, pp579-81
The “little ones”
Receiving a child in Jesus’ name is the same as receiving Jesus himself. Because children reflect the innocence, purity, simplicity and tenderness of our Lord, “In children and in the sick a soul in love sees Him” (St Josemaria Escrivá, “The Way”, 419). The holy, pained indignation sounding in Jesus’ words show the seriousness of the sin of scandal.
“Millstone”: our Lord refers to a form of punishment used in ancient times. It consisted in throwing a person into the sea with a heavy weight attached to his neck to prevent his body floating to the surface. This was regarded as a particularly ignominious form of death because it was inflicted only on the worst criminals; also it meant deprival of burial.
Although Jesus affirms that people will cause others to sin, this means everyone, personally, should ensure this does not happen. Thus, everyone who does cause another to sin is responsible for his action.
Here he refers directly to scandal given to children: an action particularly malicious given the weakness and innocence of children. The evilness of the world as enemy of the soul consists mainly in harm it does in this way. Its evil maxims and bad example create an environment which draws people away from God, from Christ and from his Church.
The scandal given by those whose function is to educate others is particularly serious: If ordinary folk are lukewarm, that is bad; but it can be remedied, and the only one they harm is themselves.
If, however, the teachers are lukewarm, then the Lord’s ‘Woe to the world’ applies, because of the great evil that is a consequence of this lukewarmness. This ‘woe’ threatens those lukewarm teachers who spread their lukewarmness to others and even suffocate their fervour completely. (cf St Augustine, “Sermon 55”)
Ref: “The Navarre Bible”, “The Gospel of St Matthew”, 1988, p155-6
Mary, channel of all graces
All graces come to us through Mary. “No one is saved, most holy one, if not through your intercession. No one is freed from evil, except through your help ... Neither does anyone receive the divine gifts without benefit of your mediation ... apart from your Son, who is it that has more concern for the human race than you?
"Who else protects us without fail when we are in trouble? Who frees us so rapidly from the temptations that befall us? Who seeks more earnestly to protect sinners? Who comes to their defence no matter how hopeless their situation?
"For these many reasons, the afflicted seek refuge in you. The very invocation of your name puts to flight the enemy and his servants. It is a safe refuge. You free those who invoke you from every need and you forewarn them against every temptation.” (St Germanus of Constantinople, “Homily on St Mary Zonam”)
We, Christians have recourse to the Mother of Heaven for every assistance. We ask Our Lady for the conversion of whoever has separated from her Son. For ourselves we pray for a ‘continuous conversion’, a disposition to always improve, weed out any obstacles that could impede the action of the Holy Spirit.
The one who can change hearts, we also need her constant assistance in the apostolate. Thus, Christians of every age have called Mary ‘Health of the sick’, ‘Refuge of sinners’, ‘Comforter of the afflicted’, ‘Queen of apostles’, ‘Queen of martyrs’ ...
Mary generously dispenses every grace imaginable, even “the graces of the sacraments, because she has merited them for us by her union with the Lord on Calvary. She prepares us with her prayer to better approach the sacraments, to receive them well. At times she even sends the priest to us, without whose involvement there would be no sacrament.” (R Garrigou-Lagrange, “The Three Ages of the Interior Life”, I, 6)
Let us place our worries in Mary’s hands. We should resolve to go to her many, many times each day with everything that concerns us.
Ref: cf F Fernandez, “In Conversation with God”, 5:101-2
Our Lady of Healing, in Lower Normandy. Miraculous cures are wrought in great numbers in this church. — Archives of the Church. “Catholic Gems or Treasures of the Church” Historical Calendar; http://www.bethlehemobserver.com); (maryfest.htm / www.starharbor.com/santiago/m_feasts.html); [France. (www.marylinks.org/Mary-Calendar.htm)]
The Most Holy Name of Mary (“Father Lasance, The New Roman Missal”, 1946, p1193); (maryfest.htm / www.starharbor.com/santiago/m_feasts.html);(www.iskandar.com/ourlady/ourladyfeasts.html)
Most Holy Name of Mary. (www.marylinks.org/Mary-Calendar.htm) History: Feast began in Spain in 1513; in 1671 was extended to all of Spain and the Kingdom of Naples. In 1683, John Sobieski, Polish king brought an army to outskirts of Vienna to stop advance of Muslim armies loyal to Mohammed IV in Constantinople. After Sobieski entrusted himself to the Blessed Virgin Mary, he and his soldiers thoroughly defeated the Muslims. Pope Innocent XI extended feast to entire Church.(www.marylinks.org/Mary-Calendar.htm)
Our Lady of Constantinople. Celebrated by Italian community in Pennsylvania, USA. Moveable feast-- 2nd Sunday of September. (www.marylinks.org/Mary-Calendar.htm)
“Woe to the world because of scandals.” (Mt 18:7) He knew the vices of the world. “If scandal must come, woe to that man by whom the scandal comes.” (Mt 18:8)
We would share our Lord’s indignation against scandal, and those who give it; and we would feel the horror he wishes us to feel, if we reflected on its malice and dreadful consequences. ‘Sinful above measure.’
The Church Fathers, too, speak in equally severe terms of those who give scandal, calling them emissaries of the devil -- devils incarnate. They lead others into sin as much or even more than the devil does.
Assassins of the soul, a thousandfold more guilty than murderers. Antichrists, undoing the work of Christ. A living plague, spreading infection and death.
Have we given scandal or been scandalized ourself? Is scandal impossible? We may not directly intend leading others into sin, but if (as St Thomas says), by word, act, or omission we become an occasion of sin to another, we are guilty of scandal. There is laxity if we fail to correct abuses in our group; disorders follow and go beyond remedy.
Have we been in some way, guilty of scandal? If we have, seek pardon for it. Do our best to repair the mischief we have done. On the other hand, never let a bad example influence us. Follow rather the saints, who drew good out of evil by redoubling their efforts to avoid the sins they saw in others.
Ref: “Practical Meditations” by a Father of the Society of Jesus, 1964, pp579-81
The “little ones”
Receiving a child in Jesus’ name is the same as receiving Jesus himself. Because children reflect the innocence, purity, simplicity and tenderness of our Lord, “In children and in the sick a soul in love sees Him” (St Josemaria Escrivá, “The Way”, 419). The holy, pained indignation sounding in Jesus’ words show the seriousness of the sin of scandal.
“Millstone”: our Lord refers to a form of punishment used in ancient times. It consisted in throwing a person into the sea with a heavy weight attached to his neck to prevent his body floating to the surface. This was regarded as a particularly ignominious form of death because it was inflicted only on the worst criminals; also it meant deprival of burial.
Although Jesus affirms that people will cause others to sin, this means everyone, personally, should ensure this does not happen. Thus, everyone who does cause another to sin is responsible for his action.
Here he refers directly to scandal given to children: an action particularly malicious given the weakness and innocence of children. The evilness of the world as enemy of the soul consists mainly in harm it does in this way. Its evil maxims and bad example create an environment which draws people away from God, from Christ and from his Church.
The scandal given by those whose function is to educate others is particularly serious: If ordinary folk are lukewarm, that is bad; but it can be remedied, and the only one they harm is themselves.
If, however, the teachers are lukewarm, then the Lord’s ‘Woe to the world’ applies, because of the great evil that is a consequence of this lukewarmness. This ‘woe’ threatens those lukewarm teachers who spread their lukewarmness to others and even suffocate their fervour completely. (cf St Augustine, “Sermon 55”)
Ref: “The Navarre Bible”, “The Gospel of St Matthew”, 1988, p155-6
Mary, channel of all graces
All graces come to us through Mary. “No one is saved, most holy one, if not through your intercession. No one is freed from evil, except through your help ... Neither does anyone receive the divine gifts without benefit of your mediation ... apart from your Son, who is it that has more concern for the human race than you?
"Who else protects us without fail when we are in trouble? Who frees us so rapidly from the temptations that befall us? Who seeks more earnestly to protect sinners? Who comes to their defence no matter how hopeless their situation?
"For these many reasons, the afflicted seek refuge in you. The very invocation of your name puts to flight the enemy and his servants. It is a safe refuge. You free those who invoke you from every need and you forewarn them against every temptation.” (St Germanus of Constantinople, “Homily on St Mary Zonam”)
We, Christians have recourse to the Mother of Heaven for every assistance. We ask Our Lady for the conversion of whoever has separated from her Son. For ourselves we pray for a ‘continuous conversion’, a disposition to always improve, weed out any obstacles that could impede the action of the Holy Spirit.
The one who can change hearts, we also need her constant assistance in the apostolate. Thus, Christians of every age have called Mary ‘Health of the sick’, ‘Refuge of sinners’, ‘Comforter of the afflicted’, ‘Queen of apostles’, ‘Queen of martyrs’ ...
Mary generously dispenses every grace imaginable, even “the graces of the sacraments, because she has merited them for us by her union with the Lord on Calvary. She prepares us with her prayer to better approach the sacraments, to receive them well. At times she even sends the priest to us, without whose involvement there would be no sacrament.” (R Garrigou-Lagrange, “The Three Ages of the Interior Life”, I, 6)
Let us place our worries in Mary’s hands. We should resolve to go to her many, many times each day with everything that concerns us.
Ref: cf F Fernandez, “In Conversation with God”, 5:101-2
Our Lady of Healing, in Lower Normandy. Miraculous cures are wrought in great numbers in this church. — Archives of the Church. “Catholic Gems or Treasures of the Church” Historical Calendar; http://www.bethlehemobserver.com); (maryfest.htm / www.starharbor.com/santiago/m_feasts.html); [France. (www.marylinks.org/Mary-Calendar.htm)]
The Most Holy Name of Mary (“Father Lasance, The New Roman Missal”, 1946, p1193); (maryfest.htm / www.starharbor.com/santiago/m_feasts.html);(www.iskandar.com/ourlady/ourladyfeasts.html)
Most Holy Name of Mary. (www.marylinks.org/Mary-Calendar.htm) History: Feast began in Spain in 1513; in 1671 was extended to all of Spain and the Kingdom of Naples. In 1683, John Sobieski, Polish king brought an army to outskirts of Vienna to stop advance of Muslim armies loyal to Mohammed IV in Constantinople. After Sobieski entrusted himself to the Blessed Virgin Mary, he and his soldiers thoroughly defeated the Muslims. Pope Innocent XI extended feast to entire Church.(www.marylinks.org/Mary-Calendar.htm)
Our Lady of Constantinople. Celebrated by Italian community in Pennsylvania, USA. Moveable feast-- 2nd Sunday of September. (www.marylinks.org/Mary-Calendar.htm)
Friday, September 10, 2010
11 September 2010: The ambition of the Apostles
The marks of honor and distinction our Saviour had given to St Peter aroused the jealousy of the other Apostles. Jesus, who “saw their thoughts” (Lk 9:47), wished to correct them. “‘What were you arguing about on the way?’ But they were silent; they had argued who among them was the greatest.” (cf Mk 9:33-4)
We are horrified by the Apostles’ conduct. ‘Their Master had just been telling them of the cruel death he was about to suffer; but it made no impression on them? Were they so selfish as to have no thought for him, but only for their own miserable ambition?’
Our indignation is natural; but we would judge them more leniently if we think of the weakness of human nature, especially of our own. Have we often yielded to thoughts of ambition and vainglory after meditating on the humiliations of our Lord?Or knelt humbly in the confessional, and then immediately lost our temper?
Ambition, like any other passion, is ingenious in concealing its aim as the Apostles did. They asked Jesus a general question: ‘Who is the greater in the kingdom of heaven?’ Jesus knew their motive, but not wishing to rebuke them too severely, merely said, “Whoever wants to be first must be the very last and make himself the servant of all” (cf Mk 9:35).
We all wish to be great in the sight of God. Jesus Christ here shows how: by making ourselves ‘little’. By God’s grace would we know if we have attained this?
Can we still keep our peace and joy of heart when slighted? Are we glad when given the meanest job; when, as Jesus says, we are ‘the servant of all’?
The Apostles, absorbed in earthly greatness, could not understand what Jesus taught them. He “called a little child, set him in the midst of the disciples, and said, ‘I assure you, unless you change and become like little children, you cannot enter the kingdom of Heaven. Whoever becomes humble like this little child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven.’” (cf Mt 18:2-4)
To please God, we must have a share of his special grace and love, by which we obtain this childhood of the spirit, and become in virtue what children in nature are-- pure, simple, humble, gentle, obedient. This is not easy. We shall not become so without generous and persevering efforts. Are we making such efforts?
Ref: cf “Practical Meditations” by a Father of the Society of Jesus, 1964, pp575-7
Mary is ‘Mediatrix’ before the Mediator
St Paul teaches, “For there is one God, and there is one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus, who gave himself as a ransom for all” (1 Tim 2:5-6). The Blessed Virgin cooperated in an extraordinary way in her Son’s work of redemption.
According to St Thomas Aquinas, it was as if God the Father had been waiting for humanity’s assent through the voice of Mary. (“Summa Theologiae”, 3, q30, a1) By reason of her divine maternity, Mary is intimately united to the mystery of the Redemption.
On Calvary Mary uniquely participated in the suffering and death of her Son. From his throne on the Cross, Jesus deigned to give Mary to the Apostle John, representing all mankind. This explains the reasoning behind the constant teaching of the Church, as most recently defined by the Second Vatican Council--
“The maternal duty of Mary toward men in no wise obscures or diminishes this unique mediation of Christ, but rather shows his power.” (Second Vatican Council, “Lumen Gentium”, 60) She is the ‘Mediatrix’ before the ‘Mediator’.
Pope John Paul II has stated: “Mary’s mediation is intimately linked with her motherhood. It possesses a specifically maternal character, which distinguishes it from the mediation of the other creatures who in various and always subordinate ways share in the one mediation of Christ, although her own mediation is also a shared mediation.” (“Redemptoris Mater”, 25 March 1987, 38)
“In no way does it impede, but rather foster the immediate union of the faithful with Christ.” (Second Vatican Council, op cit, 61)
Ref: cf F Fernandez, “In Conversation with God”, 5:99-100
Mediatrix of All Graces
A mediator’s job is to bring together, or at least to open communication between, two distant parties. Jesus Christ, God’s only Son, is the only and perfect mediator between God and men (cf 1 Tim 2:5). But this does not keep the saints, Christians in general, and most particularly, our Lady from acting as mediators.
“Every saving help by the blessed Virgin in favor of mankind is not demanded by any law, but rather is born of her goodwill and superabundance of Christ’s merits.” (Second Vatican Council, “Lumen Gentium”, 60)
Ref: Francis Fernandez-Carvajal and Peter Beteta, “Children of God”, 1997, pp65-6
Rosary devotion
Just before the start of the 19th century, on board a train headed for Paris was a young soldier obviously bored by the long ride. He was sitting opposite an old man quite content with praying the rosary.
The soldier blurted out toward the old man: “God isn’t going to save our world, science is!” The latter merely smiled and nodded, continuing his prayer.
Provoked by the old man’s nonchalance, the young man launched a tirade on the marvels of science in business and medicine. Declaring religion to be dying out as the light of science came in, he continued his attack until the train reached the Paris terminal.
As the soldier stood up, he felt sorry for the old man. Trying to sound kinder, he introduced himself. The old man shook the soldier’s hand and reached into his vest for a card. The soldier accepted the card. As the old man walked away, the soldier read the card: “Dr Louis Pasteur, Academy of Science, Paris”
The young man felt totally humiliated. He had just been heaping abuses on one of the greatest scientists of Europe: the discoverer of the rabies vaccine and pasteurization (named after the scientist), a process to destroy disease-causing bacteria in milk.
Apart from Pasteur’s deep sense of humility was his personal devotion to the holy rosary.
Ref: cf Fr Bel R San Luis, SVD, “Word Alive”, “Manila Bulletin”, 7 October 1995
Our Lady of Hildesheim, in the duchy of Brunswick, Germany. An image is there venerated, which Louis the Meek always wore about him. One day, when he had forgotten it in a wood, it became so heavy that it was impossible to remove it, which made the king resolve to build a church there. — Triple Couronne, n. 75. “Catholic Gems or Treasures of the Church” Historical Calendar; http://www.bethlehemobserver.com) [11th Century. (www.marylinks.org/Mary-Calendar.htm)]
Our Lady of Hildesheim, Germany (11th Century).(www.iskandar.com/ourlady/ourladyfeasts.html); (maryfest.htm / www.starharbor.com/santiago/m_feasts.html)
Our Lady of Atocha (“The 2002 Catholic Directory of the Philippines”, p90)
We are horrified by the Apostles’ conduct. ‘Their Master had just been telling them of the cruel death he was about to suffer; but it made no impression on them? Were they so selfish as to have no thought for him, but only for their own miserable ambition?’
Our indignation is natural; but we would judge them more leniently if we think of the weakness of human nature, especially of our own. Have we often yielded to thoughts of ambition and vainglory after meditating on the humiliations of our Lord?Or knelt humbly in the confessional, and then immediately lost our temper?
Ambition, like any other passion, is ingenious in concealing its aim as the Apostles did. They asked Jesus a general question: ‘Who is the greater in the kingdom of heaven?’ Jesus knew their motive, but not wishing to rebuke them too severely, merely said, “Whoever wants to be first must be the very last and make himself the servant of all” (cf Mk 9:35).
We all wish to be great in the sight of God. Jesus Christ here shows how: by making ourselves ‘little’. By God’s grace would we know if we have attained this?
Can we still keep our peace and joy of heart when slighted? Are we glad when given the meanest job; when, as Jesus says, we are ‘the servant of all’?
The Apostles, absorbed in earthly greatness, could not understand what Jesus taught them. He “called a little child, set him in the midst of the disciples, and said, ‘I assure you, unless you change and become like little children, you cannot enter the kingdom of Heaven. Whoever becomes humble like this little child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven.’” (cf Mt 18:2-4)
To please God, we must have a share of his special grace and love, by which we obtain this childhood of the spirit, and become in virtue what children in nature are-- pure, simple, humble, gentle, obedient. This is not easy. We shall not become so without generous and persevering efforts. Are we making such efforts?
Ref: cf “Practical Meditations” by a Father of the Society of Jesus, 1964, pp575-7
Mary is ‘Mediatrix’ before the Mediator
St Paul teaches, “For there is one God, and there is one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus, who gave himself as a ransom for all” (1 Tim 2:5-6). The Blessed Virgin cooperated in an extraordinary way in her Son’s work of redemption.
According to St Thomas Aquinas, it was as if God the Father had been waiting for humanity’s assent through the voice of Mary. (“Summa Theologiae”, 3, q30, a1) By reason of her divine maternity, Mary is intimately united to the mystery of the Redemption.
On Calvary Mary uniquely participated in the suffering and death of her Son. From his throne on the Cross, Jesus deigned to give Mary to the Apostle John, representing all mankind. This explains the reasoning behind the constant teaching of the Church, as most recently defined by the Second Vatican Council--
“The maternal duty of Mary toward men in no wise obscures or diminishes this unique mediation of Christ, but rather shows his power.” (Second Vatican Council, “Lumen Gentium”, 60) She is the ‘Mediatrix’ before the ‘Mediator’.
Pope John Paul II has stated: “Mary’s mediation is intimately linked with her motherhood. It possesses a specifically maternal character, which distinguishes it from the mediation of the other creatures who in various and always subordinate ways share in the one mediation of Christ, although her own mediation is also a shared mediation.” (“Redemptoris Mater”, 25 March 1987, 38)
“In no way does it impede, but rather foster the immediate union of the faithful with Christ.” (Second Vatican Council, op cit, 61)
Ref: cf F Fernandez, “In Conversation with God”, 5:99-100
Mediatrix of All Graces
A mediator’s job is to bring together, or at least to open communication between, two distant parties. Jesus Christ, God’s only Son, is the only and perfect mediator between God and men (cf 1 Tim 2:5). But this does not keep the saints, Christians in general, and most particularly, our Lady from acting as mediators.
“Every saving help by the blessed Virgin in favor of mankind is not demanded by any law, but rather is born of her goodwill and superabundance of Christ’s merits.” (Second Vatican Council, “Lumen Gentium”, 60)
Ref: Francis Fernandez-Carvajal and Peter Beteta, “Children of God”, 1997, pp65-6
Rosary devotion
Just before the start of the 19th century, on board a train headed for Paris was a young soldier obviously bored by the long ride. He was sitting opposite an old man quite content with praying the rosary.
The soldier blurted out toward the old man: “God isn’t going to save our world, science is!” The latter merely smiled and nodded, continuing his prayer.
Provoked by the old man’s nonchalance, the young man launched a tirade on the marvels of science in business and medicine. Declaring religion to be dying out as the light of science came in, he continued his attack until the train reached the Paris terminal.
As the soldier stood up, he felt sorry for the old man. Trying to sound kinder, he introduced himself. The old man shook the soldier’s hand and reached into his vest for a card. The soldier accepted the card. As the old man walked away, the soldier read the card: “Dr Louis Pasteur, Academy of Science, Paris”
The young man felt totally humiliated. He had just been heaping abuses on one of the greatest scientists of Europe: the discoverer of the rabies vaccine and pasteurization (named after the scientist), a process to destroy disease-causing bacteria in milk.
Apart from Pasteur’s deep sense of humility was his personal devotion to the holy rosary.
Ref: cf Fr Bel R San Luis, SVD, “Word Alive”, “Manila Bulletin”, 7 October 1995
Our Lady of Hildesheim, in the duchy of Brunswick, Germany. An image is there venerated, which Louis the Meek always wore about him. One day, when he had forgotten it in a wood, it became so heavy that it was impossible to remove it, which made the king resolve to build a church there. — Triple Couronne, n. 75. “Catholic Gems or Treasures of the Church” Historical Calendar; http://www.bethlehemobserver.com) [11th Century. (www.marylinks.org/Mary-Calendar.htm)]
Our Lady of Hildesheim, Germany (11th Century).(www.iskandar.com/ourlady/ourladyfeasts.html); (maryfest.htm / www.starharbor.com/santiago/m_feasts.html)
Our Lady of Atocha (“The 2002 Catholic Directory of the Philippines”, p90)
Thursday, September 9, 2010
10 September 2010: The Didrachma
The Gospel mentions only one act of our Lord during his last visit to Capharnaum. “... the Temple tax collectors came to Peter and asked him, ‘Does your Master pay the didrachmas?’ He said, ‘Certainly’.
“When he came into the house, Jesus immediately asked him, ‘What do you think, Simon? Who pay taxes or tributes to the kings of the earth: their sons or the foreigners?’ Peter replied, ‘The foreigners’. Jesus told him, ‘The sons, then are tax-exempt’.” (Mt 17:24-6)
Undoubtedly, this title exempted Jesus from all tribute to earthly kings. His exemption rested on fact.
In seeking dispensation from work or penance, does it rest on valid reasons? Age, health, business, seniority, merit, great services. Self-deception, self-love, idleness, tepidity can creep into the claim for privilege. Thus, we must rigidly scrutinize our motives.
Though Jesus need not pay the tribute, he paid to avoid giving scandal to the people, still ignorant of his right of exemption as the Son of God. But he paid it, so to speak, as God, by a striking miracle.
He said to Peter, “Go to the sea and cast a hook; open the mouth of the first fish you catch. You will find a coin in it. Take that and give it to them for me and for you.” (Mt 17:27)
By this command he severely tested the Apostle’s obedience. It stood the trial and gained the reward. What do we learn from this?
First, never to block our neighbor’s way, although in so doing we commit no sin.
Second, not to ask ourself, when an opportunity of doing good is presented to us, ‘Am I obliged to do this?’ It would be a bad turn for the generosity which God daily shows us.
Third, not to criticize, but to love, in all humility the wonderful ways in which God sometimes pleases to manifest his good pleasure.
Fourth, blind obedience.
The tribute was demanded of Jesus only as head of the College of Apostles. Still, he wished Peter to pay it, too. Why did he make this distinction, which in some degree raised the Apostle to the level of his Master?
Commentators believe that it signified to Peter confirmation of the primacy which had been given him. This fresh proof of love which Jesus gave St Peter was the reward of his faith and obedience.
Let us strive to deserve the love of our Lord and Saviour. Congratulate St Peter on the exalted rank to which he was raised. It was for our welfare that this was done.
It is to the supremacy of St Peter and of his successors that we owe the unbroken unity of the faith, and the continuing vigor of the Church, our mother, to whom we owe all that is good, natural or supernatural.
Ref: cf “Practical Meditations” by a Father of the Society of Jesus, 1964, pp573-5
Freedom and Responsibility in Secular Affairs
The doctrine of Christ lies above any political option. In the exercise of their legitimate freedom, the faithful may propose a certain solution to a given problem or situation. And yet, as the Second Vatican Council teaches, ‘they ought to remember that in those cases, no one is permitted to identify the authority of the Church with his own opinion’.
Jesus did not wish to be a political Messiah who would dominate by force but preferred to call himself the Son of Man who came to serve and “to give his life as a ransom for many” (Mk 10:45). He recognized civil authority and its rights when he ordered tribute to be paid to Caesar, but also gave clear warning the higher rights of God must be respected.
It would be foolish to expect the public lives of all Catholics to conform to a single pattern and to expect them to have identical opinions and preferences.
Ref: cf Fr M Guzman, “Encounters with Christ”, 1990, pp133-5
To be exemplary citizens
To imitate Our Lord we should be good citizens who fulfil their duties at work, in the family and in society. Paying fair taxes, voting according to our conscience and participating in public services are some of these duties. We might ask ourselves in our prayer whether we are known to punctually fulfil our duties, are good neighbors, exemplary at work, etc.
Good Christians cannot be bad citizens. Mistaken are they who affirm “we have no home here and look only to the future” (cf Heb 13:14); thus, are careless about their temporal affairs. They do not realize their faith obliges them to fulfil duties with perfection, according to their personal calling. (Second Vatican Council, Constitution, “Gaudium et spes”, 42)
As Christians who are called to be saints in the middle of the world, we should always maintain “the nobility and moral dignity of social and political commitments, and the great opportunities they offer to grow in faith, in hope, in love; and in fortitude, in detachment and generosity. When these social and political commitments are lived with a Christian spirit, they become a strenuous school of perfection and a demanding means of living the virtues.” (Spanish Episcopal Conference, “Catholics in Public Life”, 22 April 1986, 60, 63)
Christians who are exemplary citizens can show to many the way to Christ. Nowadays, “a new and unformed mass has arisen in lands of old Christian heritage, while the world, in all its breadth, is a field of apostolic action that should reach all men, a task to which all Christians are committed. Today, the church and all of her children are enrolled in a mission, and the leaven should now exercise her renewing function.” (J Orlandis, “The Christian vocation of the man of today”, Madrid, 1973)
This is possible because we are full-fledged citizens, with rights to exercise and duties to fulfil, and desire to face up to the difficulties that life entails.
We ask the Blessed Virgin, our Mother, to take us by the hand since we are her little children. For a greater care when our age or experience require her guidance.
Ref: cf F Fernandez, “In Conversation with God”, 4:352; 354-6; 388
Our Lady of Trut, near Cologne. This church was built under Otho I by St Heribert, Archbishop of Cologne, on the very spot where idols bad been formerly worshipped. “Catholic Gems or Treasures of the Church” Historical Calendar; http://www.bethlehemobserver.com); (www.marylinks.org/Mary-Calendar.htm)
Our Lady of Trut, Shrine near Cologne, Germany, built by St Heribert (10th Century).(www.iskandar.com/ourlady/ourladyfeasts.html); (maryfest.htm / www.starharbor.com/santiago/m_feasts.html)
Our Lady of China (“The 2002 Catholic Directory of the Philippines”, p103)
“When he came into the house, Jesus immediately asked him, ‘What do you think, Simon? Who pay taxes or tributes to the kings of the earth: their sons or the foreigners?’ Peter replied, ‘The foreigners’. Jesus told him, ‘The sons, then are tax-exempt’.” (Mt 17:24-6)
Undoubtedly, this title exempted Jesus from all tribute to earthly kings. His exemption rested on fact.
In seeking dispensation from work or penance, does it rest on valid reasons? Age, health, business, seniority, merit, great services. Self-deception, self-love, idleness, tepidity can creep into the claim for privilege. Thus, we must rigidly scrutinize our motives.
Though Jesus need not pay the tribute, he paid to avoid giving scandal to the people, still ignorant of his right of exemption as the Son of God. But he paid it, so to speak, as God, by a striking miracle.
He said to Peter, “Go to the sea and cast a hook; open the mouth of the first fish you catch. You will find a coin in it. Take that and give it to them for me and for you.” (Mt 17:27)
By this command he severely tested the Apostle’s obedience. It stood the trial and gained the reward. What do we learn from this?
First, never to block our neighbor’s way, although in so doing we commit no sin.
Second, not to ask ourself, when an opportunity of doing good is presented to us, ‘Am I obliged to do this?’ It would be a bad turn for the generosity which God daily shows us.
Third, not to criticize, but to love, in all humility the wonderful ways in which God sometimes pleases to manifest his good pleasure.
Fourth, blind obedience.
The tribute was demanded of Jesus only as head of the College of Apostles. Still, he wished Peter to pay it, too. Why did he make this distinction, which in some degree raised the Apostle to the level of his Master?
Commentators believe that it signified to Peter confirmation of the primacy which had been given him. This fresh proof of love which Jesus gave St Peter was the reward of his faith and obedience.
Let us strive to deserve the love of our Lord and Saviour. Congratulate St Peter on the exalted rank to which he was raised. It was for our welfare that this was done.
It is to the supremacy of St Peter and of his successors that we owe the unbroken unity of the faith, and the continuing vigor of the Church, our mother, to whom we owe all that is good, natural or supernatural.
Ref: cf “Practical Meditations” by a Father of the Society of Jesus, 1964, pp573-5
Freedom and Responsibility in Secular Affairs
The doctrine of Christ lies above any political option. In the exercise of their legitimate freedom, the faithful may propose a certain solution to a given problem or situation. And yet, as the Second Vatican Council teaches, ‘they ought to remember that in those cases, no one is permitted to identify the authority of the Church with his own opinion’.
Jesus did not wish to be a political Messiah who would dominate by force but preferred to call himself the Son of Man who came to serve and “to give his life as a ransom for many” (Mk 10:45). He recognized civil authority and its rights when he ordered tribute to be paid to Caesar, but also gave clear warning the higher rights of God must be respected.
It would be foolish to expect the public lives of all Catholics to conform to a single pattern and to expect them to have identical opinions and preferences.
Ref: cf Fr M Guzman, “Encounters with Christ”, 1990, pp133-5
To be exemplary citizens
To imitate Our Lord we should be good citizens who fulfil their duties at work, in the family and in society. Paying fair taxes, voting according to our conscience and participating in public services are some of these duties. We might ask ourselves in our prayer whether we are known to punctually fulfil our duties, are good neighbors, exemplary at work, etc.
Good Christians cannot be bad citizens. Mistaken are they who affirm “we have no home here and look only to the future” (cf Heb 13:14); thus, are careless about their temporal affairs. They do not realize their faith obliges them to fulfil duties with perfection, according to their personal calling. (Second Vatican Council, Constitution, “Gaudium et spes”, 42)
As Christians who are called to be saints in the middle of the world, we should always maintain “the nobility and moral dignity of social and political commitments, and the great opportunities they offer to grow in faith, in hope, in love; and in fortitude, in detachment and generosity. When these social and political commitments are lived with a Christian spirit, they become a strenuous school of perfection and a demanding means of living the virtues.” (Spanish Episcopal Conference, “Catholics in Public Life”, 22 April 1986, 60, 63)
Christians who are exemplary citizens can show to many the way to Christ. Nowadays, “a new and unformed mass has arisen in lands of old Christian heritage, while the world, in all its breadth, is a field of apostolic action that should reach all men, a task to which all Christians are committed. Today, the church and all of her children are enrolled in a mission, and the leaven should now exercise her renewing function.” (J Orlandis, “The Christian vocation of the man of today”, Madrid, 1973)
This is possible because we are full-fledged citizens, with rights to exercise and duties to fulfil, and desire to face up to the difficulties that life entails.
We ask the Blessed Virgin, our Mother, to take us by the hand since we are her little children. For a greater care when our age or experience require her guidance.
Ref: cf F Fernandez, “In Conversation with God”, 4:352; 354-6; 388
Our Lady of Trut, near Cologne. This church was built under Otho I by St Heribert, Archbishop of Cologne, on the very spot where idols bad been formerly worshipped. “Catholic Gems or Treasures of the Church” Historical Calendar; http://www.bethlehemobserver.com); (www.marylinks.org/Mary-Calendar.htm)
Our Lady of Trut, Shrine near Cologne, Germany, built by St Heribert (10th Century).(www.iskandar.com/ourlady/ourladyfeasts.html); (maryfest.htm / www.starharbor.com/santiago/m_feasts.html)
Our Lady of China (“The 2002 Catholic Directory of the Philippines”, p103)
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