On the road to Emmaus two disciples – disappointed and downcast – are leaving Jerusalem. Their encounter with Christ through the Scriptures and the Eucharist transforms their hearts and renews their faith.
Mass Readings – 3rd Sunday of Easter
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On this Feast of St. Mark the evangelist we are reminded that all of us are called to proclaim the Good News of Jesus Christ – by our words, actions and example – so that others can see how the Lord brings power and joy to our lives.
Mass Readings – St. Mark the Evangelist
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The wisdom of Gamaliel reveals a spiritual insight: things of divine origin cannot be destroyed. As we place our lives under God’s guidance, may we seek the Lord in everything we do.
Mass Readings – Friday of the 2nd Week of Easter
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The Apostles declare that they “must obey God and not men” as they stand before the hostile Sanhedrin. Risking their lives, they show us the test of faith…even to the point of death.
Mass Readings – Thursday of the 2nd Week of Easter
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The Apostles encounter hostility from their preaching and are thrown in prison; God sends an angel to free them…to get back to the work of God!
Mass Readings – Wednesday of the 2nd Week of Easter
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“The community of believers was of one heart and mind,” and their example – powered by their faith in the Risen Lord – inspires us to draw together as we face the challenges and obstacles in our lives today.
Mass Readings – Tuesday of the 2nd Week of Easter
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Study: Where do you find your faith renewed? What activities build up your relationship with the Lord?
Pray: Is there someone in your life who is searching for God? Pray that the Lord gives you guidance to say and do what is helpful.
Serve: Is there a situation or activity where your time and talent can help others grow closer to the Lord? How can you get involved?
Mass Readings – 3rd Sunday of Easter
The readings this week are filled with power and zeal. The resurrection of Jesus inspires the early Church, and their encounter with the Risen Lord in the breaking of the bread testifies to the enduring grace we receive every time we come to Mass. Take a look:
A pattern emerges: an encounter with the Risen Lord changes our lives in dynamic and life-giving ways. Peter is no longer timid or afraid to stand up for Christ; Christians conduct themselves with faith and hope; the disciples have their minds opened and hearts burning as Jesus is present to them in the breaking of the bread.
It is the depth of this change that bears close inspection. These people are renewed and empowered with a strength and conviction that can inspire us today. They burn with the flame of faith, and through the example and witness of their lives the Gospel message will spread like wildfire.
This is our task today. As we look to the early Church, we acknowledge that NOTHING was easy for them. Their trust in God put them in the path of tremendous obstacles, trials and persecutions. And yet with God’s grace their triumphed…and we can, too.
I’d like to suggest a simple two-step process:
The first question requires us to pause and reflect on the prayers, sacraments, fellowship and other life-giving activities that renew our hearts. The second question challenges us to step out in faith and invite those we know and love to encounter the Risen Lord. May the faith of the early Church inspire us to proclaim the Good News with passion and joy!
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Note: This post was first published on April 24, 2017.
After the release of Peter and John, the community prays for a bold faith to speak and act in the name of Jesus.
Mass Readings – Monday of the 2nd Week of Easter
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The Acts of the Apostles reveals a powerful example of communal life that challenges us to examine our relationships at every level and interaction. Community is crucial…but not always easy! May we call upon God’s Mercy for the help to make our communities flourish.
Mass Readings – 2nd Sunday of Easter (Divine Mercy Sunday)
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The boldness of St. Peter is not for a moment. Rather, he displays a steadfast conviction to live his life for the Lord Jesus…not quitting, not giving up…for the resurrection of Christ has changed his life forever.
Mass Readings – Saturday in the Octave of Easter
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Catholic Inspiration – Podcast Archives of Homilies & Talks
Three Great Things 