We are servants and stewards of Christ, our King. This means that our faith is not some hazy, vague experience; rather, it is dynamic and life-giving as we conform our lives to the commands of the one who claims our obedience.
Mass Readings – Christ the King of the Universe
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Study: Recall a time when you carried out a difficult command. What gave you strength?
Pray: Is there a difficult situation facing you right now? Draw near to Christ in the Eucharist for wisdom and courage.
Serve: Actions speak louder than words…so how can your actions today show others that Christ is your King?
Mass Readings – The Solemnity of Our Lord Jesus Christ, King of the Universe
We conclude the Church’s liturgical calendar with this Feast in honor of our Lord. The title is one that speaks to a role that appears in history, literature, and culture: the KING.
Here are some common key points to remember:
Sounds simple, right? So how do we apply these concepts to Jesus? Consider this:
Practically, I suggest that we focus this week on three key commandments that Christ gave us:
Remember: the King commands us to forgive, receive Him in the Eucharist, and love one another. These are not suggestions, or helpful hints when we have free time! These are commands…and as we acknowledge that Jesus is our King we also know that we can draw near to the Lord for the strength and wisdom we need to carry them out.
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This icon of Christ Pantocrator is on loan to the Cathedral of Christ the King from Fr. Andrew Ricci. “Pantocrator” may be literally translated into “Ruler of All” or “Almighty” and it is an ancient way of depicting Jesus.
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Note: This post was first published on November 16, 2015.
Today the universal Church celebrates the dedication of the Lateran Basilica – the cathedral of the city of Rome – reminding us that every church around the world offers us a direct encounter of the living God when we draw near to the altar to pray.
Mass Readings – The Dedication of the Lateran Basilica
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Yesterday’s celebration of All Saints inspires us today to pray for All Souls. We remember our faithful departed and commend them to the loving mercy of Jesus Christ, our Savior and Lord. On this sober feast we recall that one day we will all make the journey from this life to the next, and we ask God for the grace to carry on.
Mass Readings – The Commemoration of All Souls
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The victory of the Saints stands as a reminder for us. For just as Christ sustained the Saints in their trials, so God will also walk with us. They inspire us to keep our eyes fixed on Jesus as we encounter the obstacles of life…so that one day we will join their ranks in Heaven.
Mass Readings – The Solemnity of All Saints
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The Last Judgment, Michelangelo, 1536-1541, Sistine Chapel, Rome.
Our Guardian Angels are present to help us face the challenges of this life. May we listen to their guidance and ask for their help in time of need.
Mass Readings – Guardian Angels
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The feast of the Archangels Michael, Gabriel and Raphael reminds us that God sends us help and encouragement. May the power of the angels strengthen us on earth until the day when we join them in heaven.
Mass Readings – Feast of Saints Michael, Gabriel and Raphael, archangels
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The Lord invites Matthew with a simple invitation, “Follow me.” May his example inspire us to listen to the Lord’s call in our lives and respond with joy.
Mass Readings – St. Matthew, Apostle
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Throughout her life Mary had moments of profound sorrow: the death of the Holy Innocents; the flight into Egypt; relocation to Nazareth; the rejection and betrayal of her Son; his horrific death on the Cross. Yet Mary’s faith in God inspires us to recognize that in these painful moments God is near, offering us the strength we need to carry on.
Mass Readings – Memorial of Our Lady of Sorrows
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The crucifixion of Jesus reveals the depth of God’s love as Christ endured suffering and anguish which connects with all aspects of human cruelty, evil and sin. Furthermore, in the light of the Cross we can face the crosses of our own lives with hope: for just as Jesus was victorious over his Cross, the Lord will help us carry our own.
Mass Readings – The Exaltation of the Holy Cross
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Catholic Inspiration – Podcast Archives of Homilies & Talks
Three Great Things 