On this Feast of the Lateran Basilica – the Cathedral of Rome – we look to St. Paul’s First Letter to the Corinthians for inspiration. As we honor the building that signifies the universal Church, we reaffirm our daily commitment to cleansing the temple of our hearts.
Mass Readings – Feast of the Dedication of the Lateran Basilica in Rome
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Holy Mother Church…pray for us!
The Lord reminds the disciples that anyone who is not against them is for them. No matter what corner of the vineyard we are in, may we all work together for the Lord!
Mass Readings – Monday of the 26th Week of the Year
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St. Vincent de Paul…pray for us!
Here some of the key themes that surface in the readings for the 21st Sunday of the Year.
1st Reading – Joshua 24:1-2a,15-17,18b
Psalm – 34:2-3,16-21
2nd Reading – Ephesians 5:21-32
Gospel – John 6:60-69
Mass Readings – 21st Sunday of the Year
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The Acts of the Apostles recounts how the Church continues to grow through the efforts of many people in many places.
Mass Readings – Tuesday of the 4th Week of Easter
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St. Peter, for all his mistakes and sins, is empowered by Christ with a new name and a commission to lead the Church. May his example inspire us to follow the Lord today with full and open hearts.
Mass Readings – Chair of St. Peter, Apostle
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Today we honor the cathedral of Rome – the mother Church – as we recall the power of our churches to foster our faith and help us grow in grace as living temples of the Holy Spirit.
Mass Readings – Dedication of the Lateran Basilica
Fr. Andrew and Dan Tracy offer some key insights to help discern God’s calling for those who are searching for their vocation or those who mentor them along the way.
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Fr. Andrew and Dan Tracy discuss the crucial role of “domestic Church” (our family and close friends) as it impacts the “local Church” (where we receive our sacraments and practice our faith.)
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Study: Where in my life have I experienced God’s grace and strength?
Pray: What particular needs in my life call for the help of the Holy Spirit?
Serve: Where can I use the gifts God has given me to serve another right now?
Mass Readings – Vigil of Pentecost
The image St. Paul uses in the 2nd reading this weekend is a body. Composed of different parts which do unique and special functions, the body is united when all the parts come together. So, too, all of us are united into the Body of Christ through the power of the Holy Spirit. Look at these themes from Pentecost Mass Readings of the Day:
In other words, the Holy Spirit unites people, renews life, provides unique gifts, and is granted to the Church by Christ. This is the day that the disciples were empowered to continue the mission of Jesus; filled with the Spirit they will witness the Good News of the Lord through their words and actions.
Their example becomes our model. The same Spirit that changed their lives comes to us. The same Spirit that gave them the grace and strength to go forth gives us the power we need to offer our lives for Christ. God continues to invite us to serve, and the Lord pours forth the Holy Spirit to help us carry out the work of this day.
Are there barriers in our life? Come Holy Spirit!
Are there parts of life in need of renewal? Come Holy Spirit!
Are there gifts we have that need to be used and directed? Come Holy Spirit!
Jesus freely gave the gift of the Spirit to his disciples – may we turn to the Lord with conviction that as we call for the Holy Spirit in our lives we will be given what we need for the work of this day.
Come Holy Spirit, fill the hearts of your faithful and kindle in them the fire of your love.
V. Send forth your Spirit, and they shall be created.
R. And You shall renew the face of the earth.
Let us pray.
O, God, who by the light of the Holy Spirit, did instruct the hearts of the faithful, grant that by the same Holy Spirit we may be truly wise and ever enjoy His consolations. Through Christ Our Lord. Amen.
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Note: This post was first published on May 29, 2017.
As the Apostles wrestle with a crucial about who can join the Church, we see in their decision making process a path for us to follow today.
Mass Readings – Friday of the 5th Week of Easter
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Three Great Things 