Sunday, January 1, 2023
SOLEMNITY OF MARY MOTHER OF GOD
World Day of Peace
Office – proper. Te Deum
Mass prop. Gloria. Creed.
Preface of B.V.M in Eucharistic Prayer 1
communicantes of Christmas is used
V¹ -, V² -, R¹ -, R² -,
Vestment: White
Today’s Rosary: The Glorious Mysteries
Vespers II of the Solemnity of Mary, Mother of the God
Death Anniversary: Bishop Paul A. Olawoore of Ilorin – 01/01/2022
HAPPY NEW YEAR 2023
On behalf of His Grace, Most Rev. Augustine Akubeze Obiora, priests, prayer intercessors and members of the Catholic Missal Readings Team of the Catholic Archdiocese of Benin City; we wish you a wonderful, fruitful and successful 2023 in Jesus name. Peace be with you.
THEME OF THE FEAST: Mary, Mother of the Prince of Peace.
On the first of January Christians celebrate several festive events. We celebrate, first of all, New Year’s Day; then we think of the circumcision of Jesus which took place, Luke tells us, eight days after his birth (2:21); the day was later on dedicated to Mary Mother of God, and finally in 1968 Pope Paul VI chose January 1st as the “World Day of Peace.” The person in charge of proclaiming the Word should choose just one theme. The themes are: the blessing (1st reading); Mary, model of all mothers (Gospel); peace (1st reading and Gospel); our divine Sonship (2nd reading); wonder and astonishment at the great love of God (Gospel).
THE GLORIA
Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace to people of good will. We praise you. We bless you. We adore you. We glorify you. We give you thanks for your great glory, Lord God, heavenly King, O God, almighty Father. Lord Jesus Christ, Only Begotten Son, Lord God, Lamb of God, Son of the Father, you take away the sins of the world, have mercy on us; you take away the sins of the world, receive our prayer; you are seated at the right hand of the Father, have mercy on us. For you alone are the Holy One, you alone are the Lord, you alone are the Most High, Jesus Christ, with the Holy Spirit, in the glory of God the Father. Amen
-FIRST READING-
“They shall put my name upon the people of Israel, and I will bless them...”
A reading from the Book of Numbers (Numbers 6:22-27)
The Lord said to Moses, “Say to Aaron and his sons, thus you shall bless the sons of Israel: you shall say to them, The LORD bless you and keep you: The LORD make his face to shine upon you, and be gracious to you: The Lord lift up his countenance upon you, and give you peace. “So shall they put my name upon the sons of Israel, And I will bless them.”
The word of the Lord
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Psalm 67:2-3, 5-6 and 8 (R.2a)
R/. O God, be gracious and bless us
O God, be gracious and bless us
and let your face shed its light upon us.
So will your ways be known upon earth and
all nations learn your salvation. R/.
Let the nations be glad and shout for joy,
with uprightness you rule the peoples;
you guide the nations on earth. R/.
R/. O God, be gracious and bless us
Let the peoples praise you, O God;
let all the peoples praise you.
May God still give us his blessing
that all the ends of the earth may revere him. R/.
-SECOND READING-
“God sent forth his Son, born of a woman.”
A reading from the Letter of Saint Paul to the Galatians (Galatians 4: 4-7)
Brethren: When the time had fully come, God sent forth his Son, born of woman, born under the law, to redeem those who were under the law, so that we might receive adoption as sons. And because you are sons, God has sent the Spirit of his Son into our hearts, crying, “Abba! Father!” So through God you are no longer a slave but a son, and if a son then an heir.
The word of the Lord.
ALLELUIA: Hebrews 1: 1-2
Alleluia. In many and various ways God spoke of old to our fathers by the prophets; but in these last days he has spoken to us by a Son. Alleluia.
-GOSPEL-
“They found Mary and Joseph, and the baby . . . And at the end of eight days, he was called Jesus.”
A reading from the holy Gospel according to Luke (Luke 2: 1 6-21)
At that time: The shepherds went with haste to Bethlehem, and found Mary and Joseph, and the baby lying in a manger. And when they saw it they made known the saying which had been told them concerning this child; and all who heard it wondered at what the shepherds told them. But Mary kept all these things, pondering them in her heart. And the shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all they had heard and seen, as it had been told them. And at the end of eight days, when he was circumcised, he was called Jesus, the name given by the angel before he was conceived in the womb.
The Gospel of the Lord.
THE CREED (I BELIEVE)
I believe in one God, the Father almighty, maker of heaven and earth, of all things visible and invisible. I believe in one Lord Jesus Christ, the Only Begotten Son of God, born of the Father before all ages. God from God, Light from Light, true God from true God, begotten, not made, consubstantial with the Father; through him all things were made. For us men and for our salvation he came down from heaven, and by the Holy Spirit was incarnate of the Virgin Mary, and became man. For our sake he was crucified under Pontius Pilate, he suffered death and was buried, and rose again on the third day in accordance with the Scriptures. He ascended into heaven and is seated at the right hand of the Father. He will come again in glory to judge the living and the dead and his kingdom will have no end. I believe in the Holy Spirit, the Lord, the giver of life, who proceeds from the Father and the Son, who with the Father and the Son is adored and glorified, who has spoken through the prophets. I believe in one, holy, catholic and apostolic Church. I confess one Baptism for the forgiveness of sins and I look forward to the resurrection of the dead and the life of the world to come. Amen.
PRAYER OF THE FAITHFUL
Solemnity of Mary, Mother of God
Celebrant:
Through the womb of the Blessed Virgin Mary, God was made flesh and dwelt among us. Let us pray for the grace to be agents through whom God is encountered in our contemporary world.
FOR THE MINISTERS OF THE CHURCH: that, through their ministry, they may bring God’s compassion and love to all persons, especially the poor, the lonely, the suffering, and the voiceless in society. We pray to the Lord.
FOR PEACE IN THE WORLD: that leaders of government leaders may see themselves as instruments of God in promoting peace, reconciliation and justice in every part of the world. We pray to the Lord.
FOR MOTHERS, FATHERS AND ALL WHO HAVE THE RESPONSIBILITY TO RAISE CHILDREN: that they may better respond to the vocation to raise their children and those entrusted to their care in a godly way and that, through the intercession of the Blessed Virgin Mary, they may find joy in their children. We pray to the Lord.
FOR MEMBERS OF THIS WORSHIPPING COMMUNITY: that by the proclamation of the Gospel and the witness of our lives, we may, like the Blessed Virgin Mary, bring Christ to those who do not yet know him. We pray to the Lord.
FOR OTHER INTENTIONS: (the sick, church projects or other activities).
FOR THE DEAD: especially the members of our parish community and families that they may find peace in the kingdom of Our Father. We pray to the Lord.
We pray in silence for our private intentions.
Celebrant:
Heavenly Father, you chose Mary as the Mother of your Son, the Second Person of the Blessed Trinity. Kindly listen to the petitions we make to you through her intercession. We ask this through Christ our Lord.
R/. Amen.
TODAY’S REFLECTION
A big AMEN to the blessings given to us by God through Moses as we begin the New year, 2023. We celebrate this day in the Octave of Christmas with gratitude to God for the gift of the New Year and dedicate the year to Mary, Mother of God, whose solemnity we also observe today. As her adopted children in Christ, we celebrate her today even as she assures our families and us of her motherly intercession throughout the coming year. As her children, we must allow the virtues that endeared her to God inspire our lives, words and actions, throughout this year. Through her intercession, may Moses’ blessing be our special gift for the New Year. And so, may the Lord, indeed, bless us and keep us. May the Lord let his face shine on us and be gracious to us. May the Lord uncover his face to us and bring us peace. Amen.
BLESSING FOR THE NEW YEAR 2023
There is joy and hope whenever we begin a new year. Resolutions and targets are made and set respectively and the moral is high that it will be achieved as the year goes by. Definitely, resolutions and set targets will be realizable if you back it up with actions.
We cannot achieve anything in this New Year if we do not walk along with God and let Him lead us. He knows where the green pasture is and any blessing He bestows on us can never be taken away. Therefore, submit yourself to Him and let Him lead the way while you follow Him for in Him your blessings are assured.
I declare that 2023 shall be a year of restoration and praise for us. When we pray, the Lord will answer us and we shall have cause to return and give him praise as Hannah did in 1 Samuel 1:128.
May God take care of you, your family and our country Nigeria in this New Year. May our effort and work be blessed with favour and fruitfulness in Jesus name. Amen
Dear Friends, do not be afraid, enter into the year with optimism and positive mindset. Put in your best in what you do and your testimonies must surely come at the appointed time in Jesus name.
We thank you for all your support throughout 2022. Let us work together more this year to achieve greater things in Jesus name. Amen.
21 DAY NOVENA WITH FASTING
Please, kindly join us, as we begin the year with a 21DAY NOVENA WITH FASTING and prayers for Our Personal, Family, and Nation’s Restoration in this New Year 2023 starting from tomorrow, Monday 2nd January – Sunday 22rd January 2023.
You do not know what lies ahead of you! Just pray, pray God to restore all things. Pray very hard for yourself, your family and our nation Nigeria this New Year.
FASTING GUIDELINE: (i) Fast on the first day of the prayers, (ii) Every Fridays throughout the period and (iii) The last day of the prayers from 6am – 6pm (You can fast from 6am-12noon or 6am-6pm in the 21days of the Novena prayers if you’re disposed).
Kindly Note: the sick, pregnant women, nursing mothers and the aged are please advised to exercise caution in their fast.
Monday January 2, 2023
SS BASIL & GREGORY NAZIANZEN BS, Ds (Memorial)
Office – Memorial, Psalter Week 2
Mass of the memorial
preface of Christmas
V¹ -, R¹ -, V¹ -, R¹ -
Vestment: White
Today’s Rosary: Joyful Mystery
PERSONAL DEVOTIONAL: Day 1:
21 DAY NOVENA FOR PERSONAL, FAMILY AND RESTORATION OF OUR NATION IN THE NEW YEAR 2023 (2ND JANUARY - 23RD JANUARY 2023)
-FIRST READING-
What you heard from the beginning abides in you.
A reading from the first Letter of Saint John (1 John 2:22-28)
Beloved: Who is the liar but he who denies that Jesus is the Christ? This is the antichrist, he who denies the Father and the Son. Anyone who denies the Son does not have the Father. He who confesses the Son has the Father also. Let what you heard from the beginning abide in you. If what you heard from the beginning abides in you, then you will abide in the Son and in the Father. And this is what he has promised us, eternal life. I write this to you about those who would deceive you; but the anointing which you received from him abides in you, and you have no need that any one should teach you; as his anointing teaches you about everything, and is true, and is no lie, just as it has taught you, abide in him. And now, little children, abide in him, so that when he appears we may have confidence and not shrink from him in shame at his coming.
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Psalm 98:1 .2-3ab.3cd-4
R/. All the ends of the earth have seen the salvation of our God.
O sing a new song to the Lord,
for he has worked wonders.
His right hand and his holy arm
have brought salvation. R/.
The Lord has made known his salvation,
has shown his deliverance to the nations.
He has remembered his merciful love and
his truth for the house of Israel. R/.
All the ends of the earth have
seen the salvation of our God.
Shout to the Lord, all the earth;
break forth into joyous song,
and sing out your praise. R/.
ALLELUIA: Hebrews 11:2
Alleluia. Alleluia. In many and various ways God spoke of old to our fathers by the prophets; but in these last days he has spoken to us by a Son. Alleluia.
-GOSPEL-
“He who comes after me.”
A reading from the holy Gospel according to John (John 1: 19-28)
This is the testimony of John, when the Jews sent priests and Levites from Jerusalem to ask him, “Who are you?” He confessed, he did not deny, but confessed, “I am not the Christ.” And they asked him, “What then? Are you Elijah?” He said, “I am not.” “Are you the prophet?” And he answered, “No.” They said to him then, “Who are you? Let us have an answer for those who sent us. What do you say about yourself?” He said, “I am the voice of one crying in the wilderness, ‘Make straight the way of the Lord, ’as the prophet Isaiah said.” Now they had been sent from the Pharisees. They asked him, “Then why are you baptising, if you are neither the Christ, nor Elijah, nor the prophet?” John answered them, “I baptise with water; but among you stands one whom you do not know, even he who comes after me, the thong of whose sandal I am not worthy to untie.” This took place in Bethany beyond the Jordan, where John was baptising.
The Gospel of the Lord
TODAY’S REFLECTION
God continues to instruct us on the rules of life that would enable us to reap the benefits of being his true children. Yesterday we learnt from the docility and humility of Mary and the shepherds. Today we learn contentment from John the Baptist. He was doing some works for God that made it seem that he was the Messiah. The Jews then sent allies to ask him who he was (John 1:19). In humility, “he did not deny, but confessed, ‘I am not the Christ’” (John 1:20). Contentment saves us from stealing, envy and other related vices. It keeps us focused on the task we are sent to fulfill. If everyone does one’s task well, the world will be a better place.
Today’s Saint and Quote:
ST BASIL THE GREAT is one of the Doctors of the Church, and patron saint of hospital administrators.
- We should not accept in silence the benefactions of God, but return thanks for them.
- O sinner, be not discouraged, but have recourse to Mary in all your necessities. Call her to your assistance, for such is the divine Will that she should help in every kind of necessity.
- When someone steals another's clothes, we call them a thief. Should we not give the same name to one who could clothe the naked and does not? The bread in your cupboard belongs to the hungry; the coat unused in your closet belongs to the one who needs it; the shoes rotting in your closet belong to the one who has no shoes; the money which you hoard up belongs to the poor.”
- “A tree is known by its fruit; a man by his deeds. A good deed is never lost; he who sows courtesy reaps friendship, and he who plants kindness gathers love.”
- “Words are truly the image of the soul.”
- “I know many who fast, pray, sigh, and demonstrate every manner of piety, so long as it costs them nothing, yet would not part with a penny to help those in distress.”
- “You showed no mercy; it will not be shown to you. You opened not your house; you will be expelled from the Kingdom. You gave not your bread; you will not receive eternal life.”
- “Had you clothed the naked, had you given your bread to the hungry, had your door been open to every stranger, had you been a parent to the orphan, had you made the suffering of every helpless person your own, what money would you have left, the loss of which to grieve?”
PERSONAL DEVOTIONAL: Day 1:
21 DAY NOVENA FOR PERSONAL, FAMILY AND RESTORATION OF OUR NATION IN THE NEW YEAR 2023 (2ND JANUARY - 23RD JANUARY 2023),
FASTING GUIDELINE: (i) Fast on the first day of the prayers, (ii) Every Fridays throughout the period and (iii) The last day of the prayers from 6am – 6pm (You can fast from 6am-12noon or 6am-6pm in the 21days of the Novena prayers if you’re disposed).
KINDLY NOTE: The sick, pregnant women, nursing mothers and the aged are please advised to exercise caution in their fast.
May the glory of the Holy Spirit descend upon your prayer as you seek his face in Jesus name. I don’t know what the devil has stolen from you, or is actively stealing from you but I know there is liberty in Christ! Be restored! In the mighty name of Jesus!
Marriages are restored, in Jesus’ name! Businesses are restored in Jesus’ name!! Health is restored, in Jesus’ name! Families, be restored in Jesus’ name! Speak to your situation right now, whatever it is that you are believing God for a touch today, let it not go unaddressed.
Matthew 11:28 says “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.
We are believing God for rest, for an uplift for those who have carried burdens too long! Let’s get praying!!
Hebrews 11 tells us that without faith it is impossible to please God. Consequently, without faith, it is improbable to receive from the Lord. Asking and believing are equal requirements for receiving from the Lord. Let us start with a confession of faith. Say it with your own mouth and hear it. Faith comes by HEARING! Father, you are Lord, you alone are my God!
- DANIEL 9:1-19 (”You are merciful and forgiving although we have rebelled against you. We did not listen to you O Lord our God, when you told us to live according to the laws which you gave us through your servant and prophets…” “Lord, hear us. Lord, forgive us. Lord, listen to us, and act! In order that everyone will know that you are God, do not delay! This city and people are yours”)
- 2 CHRONICLES 7:14 (“If they pray to me and repent and turn away from the evil they have been doing, then I will hear them in heaven, forgive their sins, and make their land prosperous again”)
- PSALM 32, 51, 63
Heavenly Father, I come before you as your child, in great need of your help. I have physical health needs, emotional needs, spiritual needs and interpersonal needs. Many of my problems have been caused by my own failures, neglect and sinfulness, for which I humbly beg your forgiveness. I also ask you to forgive the sins of my ancestors whose failures may have left their effects on me in the form of unwanted tendencies, negative behavior patterns and a predisposition toward sin. Heal me, Lord, of all these disorders.
With your help I sincerely forgive everyone, living or dead members of my family lineage, who have directly offended me or my loved ones in any way, or those whose sins have resulted in our present sufferings and disorders. In the name of your divine Son Jesus, by the power of the Holy Spirit, I ask you Father, to deliver me and my entire family lineage from the influence of evil.
Free all members of my family tree, including those in adoptive relationships, and those in extended family relationships, from every contaminating form of bondage. By your loving concern for us, heavenly Father, and by the shed blood of your precious Son Jesus, I beg you to extend your blessing to me and all my living and deceased relatives. Heal every negative effect transmitted through all past generations, and prevent such negative effects in all future generations.
I symbolically place the Cross of Christ over the head of every person in my family lineage and I ask you to let the cleansing Blood of Jesus purify every aspect of my family. Send protective angels to encamp around us and administer to us your divine healing power, even in areas of genetic disability. Give special power to our family members’ guardian angels to heal, protect, guide and encourage each of us in all our needs. Let your healing power be released at this very moment, and let it continue as long as your sovereignty permits.
Replace all bondage in our family lineage with a bonding of holy family love.
May there be an ever-deeper bonding with you, Heavenly Father, through the power of your Holy Spirit, to your Son, Jesus Christ.
Let the family of the Holy Trinity pervade our family with its tender, warm, loving presence so that our family may recognize and manifest that love in all our relationships; in Jesus’ precious name I pray. Amen.
God of mercy and compassion, our country Nigeria is in a time of great transition. With all of the injustice and fear in our country today, we ask you to inspire us and guide us as we participate in the upcoming elections.
Give us the grace to vote wisely without being enticed or seduced by money or false promises. We seek a government that upholds and protects human rights and justice for all its citizens, regardless of class, gender, or religion. Move and inspire us by your presence among us in the most vulnerable in our society. Thank you Lord for the right to vote, we pray. Amen.
Lord, God Almighty, I thank you for protecting me from every form of evil, and bringing me the gift of your divine health. I thank you for breaking the chains of oppression and delivering me from every form of sin, sickness, disease and lies of the enemy.
I thank you for the powerful name of Jesus to which every knee shall bow. Thank you for giving me your authority over all the power of the enemy. Nothing shall harm me. Thank you for your full armor, your name, your most precious Blood and your Holy Spirit. No weapon formed against me shall prosper.
Thank you heavenly father for all your protection and provisions, may your name be praised, both now and forever more Amen.
You are God over all mankind. You are God over everything in my sphere and beyond! There is nothing too hard for you! No situation is too hard! My situation is not too hard for you!! I believe in your power! In Jesus’ name.
Precious Lord, I surrender to your mercy; Lord I surrender to your loving kindness; merciful God, I surrender to your saving grace.
(Repeat as severally as you can)
“I surrender my life and my destiny to you oh Lord, wash it with the BLOOD OF JESUS CHRIST.”
In the power and authority that you have given me, I say to all addictions, perversions, chemical dependencies, hopelessness, worry, doubt, fear, despair and all symptoms of any such illness, that you must submit to the name of Jesus.
I cast down every argument and proud obstacle that exalts itself against the knowledge of God in the mighty name of our Lord Jesus Christ, Amen.
Tuesday, January 3, 2023
THE MOST HOLY NAME OF JESUS (Memorial)
Office: Proper of day, Psalter Week 2
mass of the day or Memorial
Vestment: White
Today’s Rosary: The Sorrowful Mystery
PERSONAL DEVOTIONAL: Day 2
21 DAY NOVENA FOR PERSONAL, FAMILY AND RESTORATION OF OUR NATION IN THE NEW YEAR 2023 (2ND JANUARY - 23RD JANUARY 2023)
-FIRST READING-
Anyone who abides in him does not sin.
A reading from the first Letter of Saint John (1 John 2:29-3:6)
Beloved: If you know that God is righteous, you may be sure that every one who does right is born of him. See what love the Father has given us, that we should be called children of God; and so we are. The reason why the world does not know us is that it did not know him. Beloved, we are God’s children now; it does not yet appear what we shall be, but we know that when he appears we shall be like him, for we shall see him as he is. And every one who thus hopes in him purifies himself as he is pure. Every one who commits sin is guilty of lawlessness; sin is lawlessness. You know that he appeared to take away sins, and in him there is no sin. Any one who abides in him does not sin; any one who sins has not seen him, nor has he known him.
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Psalm 98:1.3cd-4.5-6 (R. 3cd)
R/. All the ends of the earth have seen the salvation of our God.
O sing a new song to the LORD,
for he has worked wonders.
His right hand and his holy arm
have brought salvation. R/.
All the ends of the earth have seen
the salvation of our God.
Shout to the LORD, all the earth;
break forth into joyous song,
and sing out your praise. R/.
Sing psalms to the Lord with the harp,
with the harp and the sound of song.
With trumpets and the sound of the horn,
raise a shout before the King, the LORD. R/.
ALLELUIA John 1:14a.12ac
Alleluia. Alleluia. The Word became flesh and dwelt among us. To all who received him he gave power to become children of God. Alleluia.
-GOSPEL-
“Behold, the Lamb of God.”
A reading from the holy Gospel according to John (John 1:29-34)
The next day John saw Jesus coming towards him, and said, “Behold, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world! This is he of whom I said, ‘After me comes a man who ranks before me, for he was before me.’ I myself did not know him; but for this I came baptising with water, that he might be revealed to Israel.” And John bore witness, “I saw the Spirit descend as a dove from heaven and remain on him. I myself did not know him; but he who sent me to baptise with water said to me, ‘He on whom you see the Spirit descend and remain, this is he who baptises with the Holy Spirit.’ And I have seen and have borne witness that this is the Son of God.”
The Gospel of the Lord.
TODAY’S REFLECTION
The readings of today teach us that it is God who calls and chooses His ministers, just as Samuel was. We are also taught that the elderly, such as our parents, guardians, teachers and formators should help the younger ones to decipher their vocation in life just as Eli did to Samuel. We are also told of the implications of the sins of the flesh which destroys the temple of the Holy Spirit, our body. The two disciples of John witnessed him pointing out the Messiah, the Lamb of God. They decide to follow him as if they have found the one for whom they have been waiting for. They came and saw the Messiah and went and proclaimed to others their first-hand experience of him. As Christians and disciples of the Lord, we should be witnesses of Jesus Christ by bringing others to him like Andrew did.
PERSONAL DEVOTIONAL: Day 2
21 DAY NOVENA FOR PERSONAL, FAMILY AND RESTORATION OF OUR NATION IN THE NEW YEAR 2023 (2ND JANUARY - 23RD JANUARY 2023),
FASTING GUIDELINE: (i) Fast on the first day of the prayers, (ii) Every Fridays throughout the period and (iii) The last day of the prayers from 6am – 6pm
(You can fast from 6am-12noon or 6am-6pm in the 21days of the Novena prayers if you’re disposed).
KINDLY NOTE: The sick, pregnant women, nursing mothers and the aged are please advised to exercise caution in their fast.
Lord may my heart be set on you. I repent of desires that are put ahead of your kingdom. Lord may my heart yearn for you. As a deer yearn for running the water, let my soul also desire for you oh God! By this obedience, let all these things be added to me. May my heart’s desire be added to me.
Ecclesiastes 3:1 “There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens”
‘Father let no season pass me by. Whatever seasons you have set aside for my good, it will not pass me by. Lord, I pray that you would open my eyes to recognise your seasons in my life. Grant me wisdom to place myself in the right place for those seasons. (Pray spontaneously)
Heavenly Father, I come before you as your child, in great need of your help. I have physical health needs, emotional needs, spiritual needs and interpersonal needs. Many of my problems have been caused by my own failures, neglect and sinfulness, for which I humbly beg your forgiveness. I also ask you to forgive the sins of my ancestors whose failures may have left their effects on me in the form of unwanted tendencies, negative behavior patterns and a predisposition toward sin. Heal me, Lord, of all these disorders.
With your help I sincerely forgive everyone, living or dead members of my family lineage, who have directly offended me or my loved ones in any way, or those whose sins have resulted in our present sufferings and disorders. In the name of your divine Son Jesus, by the power of the Holy Spirit, I ask you Father, to deliver me and my entire family lineage from the influence of evil.
Free all members of my family tree, including those in adoptive relationships, and those in extended family relationships, from every contaminating form of bondage. By your loving concern for us, heavenly Father, and by the shed blood of your precious Son Jesus, I beg you to extend your blessing to me and all my living and deceased relatives. Heal every negative effect transmitted through all past generations, and prevent such negative effects in all future generations.
I symbolically place the Cross of Christ over the head of every person in my family lineage and I ask you to let the cleansing Blood of Jesus purify every aspect of my family. Send protective angels to encamp around us and administer to us your divine healing power, even in areas of genetic disability. Give special power to our family members’ guardian angels to heal, protect, guide and encourage each of us in all our needs. Let your healing power be released at this very moment, and let it continue as long as your sovereignty permits.
Replace all bondage in our family lineage with a bonding of holy family love. May there be an ever-deeper bonding with you, Heavenly Father, through the power of your Holy Spirit, to your Son, Jesus Christ. Let the family of the Holy Trinity pervade our family with its tender, warm, loving presence so that our family may recognize and manifest that love in all our relationships; in Jesus’ precious name I pray. Amen.
God of mercy and compassion, our country Nigeria is in a time of great transition. With all of the injustice and fear in our country today, we ask you to inspire us and guide us as we participate in the upcoming elections.
Give us the grace to vote wisely without being enticed or seduced by money or false promises. We seek a government that upholds and protects human rights and justice for all its citizens, regardless of class, gender, or religion. Move and inspire us by your presence among us in the most vulnerable in our society. Thank you Lord for the right to vote, we pray. Amen.
I will live in Your strength and courage, for You are my God. I have faith in You and Your word because I know that Your word never fails. I thank You for the many promises You have spoken over my life, and I place my trust in You. I thank you for the powerful name of Jesus to which every knee shall bow.
Thank you for giving me your authority over all the power of the enemy. Nothing shall harm me.
Thank you for your full armor, your name, your most precious Blood and your Holy Spirit.
No weapon formed against me shall prosper.
Thank you heavenly father for all your protection and provisions, may your name be praised, both now and forever more Amen.
You are God over all mankind. You are God over everything in my sphere and beyond! There is nothing too hard for you! No situation is too hard! My situation is not too hard for you!! I believe in your power! In Jesus’ name.
Precious Lord, I surrender to your mercy; Lord I surrender to your loving kindness; merciful God, I surrender to your saving grace.
(Repeat as severally as you can)
“I surrender my life and my destiny to you oh Lord, wash it with the BLOOD OF JESUS CHRIST.”
In the power and authority that you have given me, I say to all addictions, perversions, chemical dependencies, hopelessness, worry, doubt, fear, despair and all symptoms of any such illness, that you must submit to the name of Jesus.
I cast down every argument and proud obstacle that exalts itself against the knowledge of God in the mighty name of our Lord Jesus Christ, Amen.
Wednesday, January 4, 2023
Office: Proper of day, psalter Week 2
Mass of the day, Preface of Christmas
Vestment: White
Today’s Rosary: The Glorious Mystery
PERSONAL DEVOTIONAL: Day 3
21 DAY NOVENA FOR PERSONAL, FAMILY AND RESTORATION OF OUR NATION IN THE NEW YEAR 2023 (2ND JANUARY - 23RD JANUARY 2023)
-FIRST READING-
“He cannot sin because he is born of God.”
A reading from the first Letter of Saint John (1 John 3:7-10)
Little children, let no one deceive you. He who does right is righteous, as he is righteous. He who commits sin is of the devil; for the devil has sinned from the beginning. The reason the Son of God appeared was to destroy the works of the devil. Any one born of God does not commit sin; for God’s seed abides in him, and he cannot sin because he is born of God. By this it may be seen who are the children of God, and who are the children of the devil: whoever does not do right is not of God, nor he who does not love his brother.
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Psalm 98: 1.7-9ab-9cd (R. 3cd)
R/. All the ends of the earth have seen the salvation of our God.
O sing a new song to the Lord,
for he has worked wonders.
His right hand and his holy arm
have brought salvation. R/.
Let the sea and all within it thunder;
the world, and those who dwell in it.
Let the rivers clap their hands,
and the hills ring out their joy.
At the presence of the Lord,
for he comes, he comes to judge the earth. R/.
He will judge the world with justice,
and the peoples with fairness. R/.
ALLELUIA Hebrews 1: 1-2
Alleluia. Alleluia. In many and various ways God spoke of old by the prophets; but in these last days he has spoken to us by a Son. Alleluia.
-GOSPEL-
“We have found the Messiah”
A reading from the holy Gospel according to John (John 1:35-42)
The next day again John was standing with two of his disciples; and he looked at Jesus as he walked, and said, “Behold, the Lamb of God!” The two disciples heard him say this, and they followed Jesus. Jesus turned, and saw them following, and said to them, “What do you seek?” And they said to him, “Rabbi” (which means Teacher), “where are you staying?” He said to them, “Come and see.” They came and saw where he was staying; and they stayed with him that day, for it was about the tenth hour. One of the two who heard John speak, and followed him, was Andrew, Simon Peter’s brother. He first found his brother Simon, and said to him, “We have found the Messiah” (which means Christ). He brought him to Jesus. Jesus looked at him, and said, “So you are Simon the son of John? You shall be called Cephas” (which means Peter).
The Gospel of the Lord.
PERSONAL DEVOTIONAL: Day 3
21 DAY NOVENA FOR PERSONAL, FAMILY AND RESTORATION OF OUR NATION IN THE NEW YEAR 2023 (2ND JANUARY - 23RD JANUARY 2023),
FASTING GUIDELINE: (i) Fast on the first day of the prayers, (ii) Every Fridays throughout the period and (iii) The last day of the prayers from 6am – 6pm (You can fast from 6am-12noon or 6am-6pm in the 21days of the Novena prayers if you’re disposed).
KINDLY NOTE: The sick, pregnant women, nursing mothers and the aged are please advised to exercise caution in their fast.
- Ask God for the healing of your family foundation, and the healing of your bloodline.
- Ask him to heal your destiny, to remove anything from the past affecting your life negatively.
Heavenly Father, I come before you as your child, in great need of your help. I have physical health needs, emotional needs, spiritual needs and interpersonal needs. Many of my problems have been caused by my own failures, neglect and sinfulness, for which I humbly beg your forgiveness. I also ask you to forgive the sins of my ancestors whose failures may have left their effects on me in the form of unwanted tendencies, negative behavior patterns and a predisposition toward sin. Heal me, Lord, of all these disorders.
With your help I sincerely forgive everyone, living or dead members of my family lineage, who have directly offended me or my loved ones in any way, or those whose sins have resulted in our present sufferings and disorders. In the name of your divine Son Jesus, by the power of the Holy Spirit, I ask you Father, to deliver me and my entire family lineage from the influence of evil.
Free all members of my family tree, including those in adoptive relationships, and those in extended family relationships, from every contaminating form of bondage. By your loving concern for us, heavenly Father, and by the shed blood of your precious Son Jesus, I beg you to extend your blessing to me and all my living and deceased relatives. Heal every negative effect transmitted through all past generations, and prevent such negative effects in all future generations.
I symbolically place the Cross of Christ over the head of every person in my family lineage and I ask you to let the cleansing Blood of Jesus purify every aspect of my family. Send protective angels to encamp around us and administer to us your divine healing power, even in areas of genetic disability. Give special power to our family members’ guardian angels to heal, protect, guide and encourage each of us in all our needs. Let your healing power be released at this very moment, and let it continue as long as your sovereignty permits.
Replace all bondage in our family lineage with a bonding of holy family love. May there be an ever-deeper bonding with you, Heavenly Father, through the power of your Holy Spirit, to your Son, Jesus Christ. Let the family of the Holy Trinity pervade our family with its tender, warm, loving presence so that our family may recognize and manifest that love in all our relationships; in Jesus’ precious name I pray. Amen.
God of mercy and compassion, our country Nigeria is in a time of great transition. With all of the injustice and fear in our country today, we ask you to inspire us and guide us as we participate in the upcoming elections.
Give us the grace to vote wisely without being enticed or seduced by money or false promises. We seek a government that upholds and protects human rights and justice for all its citizens, regardless of class, gender, or religion. Move and inspire us by your presence among us in the most vulnerable in our society. Thank you Lord for the right to vote, we pray. Amen.
I will live in Your strength and courage, for You are my God. I have faith in You and Your word because I know that Your word never fails. I thank You for the many promises You have spoken over my life, and I place my trust in You. I thank you for the powerful name of Jesus to which every knee shall bow.
Thank you for giving me your authority over all the power of the enemy. Nothing shall harm me.
Thank you for your full armor, your name, your most precious Blood and your Holy Spirit.
No weapon formed against me shall prosper.
Thank you heavenly Father for all your protection and provisions, may your name be praised, both now and forever more Amen.
You are God over all mankind. You are God over everything in my sphere and beyond! There is nothing too hard for you! No situation is too hard! My situation is not too hard for you!! I believe in your power! In Jesus’ name.
Precious Lord, I surrender to your mercy; Lord I surrender to your loving kindness; merciful God, I surrender to your saving grace.
(Repeat as severally as you can)
“I surrender my life and my destiny to you oh Lord, wash it with the BLOOD OF JESUS CHRIST.”
In the power and authority that you have given me, I say to all addictions, perversions, chemical dependencies, hopelessness, worry, doubt, fear, despair and all symptoms of any such illness, that you must submit to the name of Jesus.
I cast down every argument and proud obstacle that exalts itself against the knowledge of God in the mighty name of our Lord Jesus Christ, Amen.
Thursday, January 5, 2023
CHRISTMAS TIME YEAR A
Vestment: White
Today’s Rosary: Luminous Mystery
PERSONAL DEVOTIONAL: Day 4
21 DAY NOVENA FOR PERSONAL, FAMILY AND RESTORATION OF OUR NATION IN THE NEW YEAR 2023 (2ND JANUARY - 23RD JANUARY 2023).
ORLU: Tomorrow is the 42nd Anniversary of the episcopal ordination of Most Revd. Gregory Ochiagha (Emeritus,) 6th January 1981.
ABUJA: Tomorrow is the 40th Anniversary of the episcopal ordination of John Cardinal Onaiyekan, 6th January 1983.
NSUKKA: Tomorrow is the 32nd Anniversary of the episcopal ordination of Most Revd. F. E. Okobo,(Emeritus,) 6th January 1991.
UYO : Tomorrow is the 16th Anniversary of the episcopal ordination of Most Revd. John E. Ayah, 6th January 2007.
-FIRST READING-
“We have passed out of death into life, because we love the brethren.”
A reading from the first Letter of Saint John (1 John 3:11-18)
Beloved: This is the message which you have heard from the beginning, that we should love one another, and not be like Cain who was of the Evil One and murdered his brother. And why did he murder him? Because his own deeds were evil and his brother’s righteous. Do not wonder, brethren, that the world hates you. We know that we have passed out of death into life, because we love the brethren. He who does not love remains in death. Any one who hates his brother is a murderer, and you know that no murderer has eternal life abiding in him. By this we show love, that he laid down his life for us; and we ought to lay down our lives for the brethren. But if any one has the world’s goods and sees his brother in need, yet closes his heart against him, how does God’s love abide in him? Little children, let us not love in word or speech but indeed and in truth. By this we shall know that we are of the truth, and reassure our hearts before him whenever our hearts condemn us; for God is greater than our hearts, and he knows everything. Beloved, if our hearts do not condemn us, we have confidence before God.
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Psalm 100: 1-2.3.4
R/. Cry out with joy to the Lord, all the earth.
Cry out with joy to the Lord, all the earth.
Serve the Lord with gladness.
Come before him, singing for joy. R/.
Know that he, the Lord, is God.
He made us; we belong to him.
We are his people, the sheep of his flock. R/.
R/. Cry out with joy to the Lord, all the earth.
Enter his gates with thanksgiving
and his courts with songs of praise.
Give thanks to him, and bless his name. R/.
Indeed, how good is the Lord,
eternal his merciful love.
He is faithful from age to age. R/.
Alleluia,
Alleluia. A hallowed day has shone upon us: come, O nations, and adore the Lord; for today a great light has come down to earth. Alleluia.
-GOSPEL-
“You are the Son of God! You are the King of Israel!”
A reading from the holy Gospel according to John (John 1: 43-51)
At that time: Jesus decided to go to Galilee. And he found Philip and said to him, “Follow me.” Now Philip was from Bethsaida, the city of Andrew and Peter. Philip found Nathanael, and said to him, “We have found him of whom Moses in the law and also the prophets wrote, Jesus of Nazareth, the son of Joseph.” Nathanael said to him, “Can anything good come out of Nazareth?” Philip said to him, “Come and see.” Jesus saw Nathanael coming to him, and said of him, “Behold, an Israelite indeed, in whom is no guile!” Nathanael said to him, “How do you know me?” Jesus answered him, “Before Philip called you, when you were under the fig tree, I saw you.” Nathanael answered him, “Rabbi, you are the Son of God! You are the King of Israel!” Jesus answered him, “Because I said to you, I saw you under the fig tree, do you believe? You shall see greater things than these.” And he said to him, “Truly, truly, I say to you, you will see heaven opened, and the angels of God ascending and descending upon the Son of man.”
The Gospel of the Lord.
TODAY’S REFLECTION
“What is in a name?” Today, we commemorate the naming of Jesus. In tradition, names are action words that signified and encompassed the actual life and destiny of the bearers. Jesus’ name and titles designate his actual life, work and destiny, especially in relation to us. As an object of faith, early Christian converts were invited to believe in Jesus’ name (Jn 20:31, 1 Jn 5:13, Acts 2:38). The name represents the saving presence of Jesus in our midst. There is power in the name; power that heals, encourages, delivers, fills our needs, and inspires us to share the same gift with others. Loving God, sustain us in the name of Jesus, your Son. Amen.
PERSONAL DEVOTIONAL: Day 4
21 DAY NOVENA FOR PERSONAL, FAMILY AND RESTORATION OF OUR NATION IN THE NEW YEAR 2023 (2ND JANUARY - 23RD JANUARY 2023),
FASTING GUIDELINE: (i) Fast on the first day of the prayers, (ii) Every Fridays throughout the period and (iii) The last day of the prayers from 6am – 6pm (You can fast from 6am-12noon or 6am-6pm in the 21days of the Novena prayers if you’re disposed).
KINDLY NOTE: The sick, pregnant women, nursing mothers and the aged are please advised to exercise caution in their fast.
- Exercise your authority in Christ today.
- Command all demonic powers to stop all their evil activities in your life and family.
Heavenly Father, I come before you as your child, in great need of your help. I have physical health needs, emotional needs, spiritual needs and interpersonal needs. Many of my problems have been caused by my own failures, neglect and sinfulness, for which I humbly beg your forgiveness. I also ask you to forgive the sins of my ancestors whose failures may have left their effects on me in the form of unwanted tendencies, negative behavior patterns and a predisposition toward sin. Heal me, Lord, of all these disorders.
With your help I sincerely forgive everyone, living or dead members of my family lineage, who have directly offended me or my loved ones in any way, or those whose sins have resulted in our present sufferings and disorders. In the name of your divine Son Jesus, by the power of the Holy Spirit, I ask you Father, to deliver me and my entire family lineage from the influence of evil.
Free all members of my family tree, including those in adoptive relationships, and those in extended family relationships, from every contaminating form of bondage. By your loving concern for us, heavenly Father, and by the shed blood of your precious Son Jesus, I beg you to extend your blessing to me and all my living and deceased relatives. Heal every negative effect transmitted through all past generations, and prevent such negative effects in all future generations.
I symbolically place the Cross of Christ over the head of every person in my family lineage and I ask you to let the cleansing Blood of Jesus purify every aspect of my family. Send protective angels to encamp around us and administer to us your divine healing power, even in areas of genetic disability. Give special power to our family members’ guardian angels to heal, protect, guide and encourage each of us in all our needs. Let your healing power be released at this very moment, and let it continue as long as your sovereignty permits.
Replace all bondage in our family lineage with a bonding of holy family love. May there be an ever-deeper bonding with you, Heavenly Father, through the power of your Holy Spirit, to your Son, Jesus Christ. Let the family of the Holy Trinity pervade our family with its tender, warm, loving presence so that our family may recognize and manifest that love in all our relationships; in Jesus’ precious name I pray. Amen.
God of mercy and compassion, our country Nigeria is in a time of great transition. With all of the injustice and fear in our country today, we ask you to inspire us and guide us as we participate in the upcoming elections.
Give us the grace to vote wisely without being enticed or seduced by money or false promises. We seek a government that upholds and protects human rights and justice for all its citizens, regardless of class, gender, or religion. Move and inspire us by your presence among us in the most vulnerable in our society. Thank you Lord for the right to vote, we pray. Amen.
I will live in Your strength and courage, for You are my God. I have faith in You and Your word because I know that Your word never fails. I thank You for the many promises You have spoken over my life, and I place my trust in You. I thank you for the powerful name of Jesus to which every knee shall bow.
Thank you for giving me your authority over all the power of the enemy. Nothing shall harm me.
Thank you for your full armor, your name, your most precious Blood and your Holy Spirit.
No weapon formed against me shall prosper.
Thank you heavenly Father for all your protection and provisions, may your name be praised, both now and forever more Amen.
You are God over all mankind. You are God over everything in my sphere and beyond! There is nothing too hard for you! No situation is too hard! My situation is not too hard for you!! I believe in your power! In Jesus’ name.
Precious Lord, I surrender to your mercy; Lord I surrender to your loving kindness; merciful God, I surrender to your saving grace.
(Repeat as severally as you can)
“I surrender my life and my destiny to you oh Lord, wash it with the BLOOD OF JESUS CHRIST.”
In the power and authority that you have given me, I say to all addictions, perversions, chemical dependencies, hopelessness, worry, doubt, fear, despair and all symptoms of any such illness, that you must submit to the name of Jesus.
I cast down every argument and proud obstacle that exalts itself against the knowledge of God in the mighty name of our Lord Jesus Christ, Amen.
Friday, January 6, 2023
Office: Proper of day, Psalter Week 2
Mass of the day; Preface of Christmas or Epiphany
Vestment: White
Today’s Rosary: The Sorrowful Mystery
-FIRST READING-
“The Spirit, the water, and the blood.”
A reading from the first Letter of Saint John (1 John 5:5-13)
Beloved: Who is it that overcomes the world but he who believes that Jesus is the Son of God? This is he who came by water and blood, Jesus Christ, not with the water only but with the water and the blood. And the Spirit is the witness, because the Spirit is the truth. There are three witnesses, the Spirit, the water, and the blood; and these three agree. If we receive the testimony of men, the testimony of God is greater; for this is the testimony of God that he has borne witness to his Son. He who believes in the Son of God has the testimony in himself. He who does not believe God has made him a liar, because he has not believed in the testimony that God has borne to his Son. And this is the testimony that God gave us eternal life, and this life is in his Son. He who has the Son has life; he who has not the Son of God has not life. I write this to you who believe in the name of the Son of God, that you may know that you have eternal life.
The word of the Lord
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Psalm 147: 12- 13.14-15.19-20 (R. 12a)
R/. O Jerusalem, glorify the Lord!
Or: Alleluia.
O Jerusalem, glorify the Lord!
O Sion, praise your God!
He has strengthened the bars of your gates;
he has blessed your children within you. R/.
He established peace on your borders;
he gives you your fil1 of finest wheat.
He send‘s out his word to the earth,
and swiftly runs his command. R/.
He reveals his word to Jacob;
to Israel, his decrees and judgements.
He has not dealt thus with other nations;
he has not taught them his judgements. R/.
ALLELUIA Mark 9:6
Alleluia. Alleluia. The heavens opened and the Father’s voice was heard: “This is my beloved Son, listen to him.” Alleluia.
-GOSPEL-
“You are my beloved Son, with you I am well pleased.”
A reading from the holy Gospel according to Mark (Mark 1:7- 11)
At that time: John preached, saying, “After me comes he who is mightier than I, the thong of whose sandals I am not worthy to stoop down and untie. I have baptised you with water; but he will baptise you with the Holy Spirit.” In those days Jesus came from Nazareth of Galilee and was baptised by John in the Jordan. And when he came up out of the water, immediately he saw the heavens opened and the Spirit descending upon him like a dove; and a voice came from heaven, “You are my beloved Son; with you I am well pleased.”
The Gospel of the Lord.
Or the following:
A reading from the holy Gospel according to Luke (Luke 3:23-38)
The Genealogy of Jesus Christ, the Son of Adam, the son of God.
At that time: Jesus, when he began his ministry, was about thirty years of age, being the son (as was supposed) of Joseph, the son of Heli, the son of Matthat, the son of Levi, the son of Melchi, the son of Janna-i, the son of Joseph, the son of Mattathias, the son of Amos, the son of Nahum, the son of Esli, the son of Nagga-i, the son of Maath, the son of Mattathias, the son of Seine-in, the son of Josech, the son of Joda, the son of Joanan, the son of Rhesa, the son of Zerubbabel, the son of She-alti-el, the son of Neri, the son of Melchi, the son ofAddi, the son of Cosam, the son of Elm- adam, the son of Er, the son of Joshua, the son of Eliezer, the son of Jorim, the son of Matthat, the son of Levi, the son of Simeon, the son of Judah, the son of Joseph, the son of Jonam, the son of Eliakim, the son of Mele-a, the son of Menna, the son of Mattatha, the son of Nathan, the son of David, the son of Jesse, the son of Obed, the son of Boaz, the son of Sala, the son of Nahshon, the son of Amminadab, the son of Admin, the son of Ami, the son of Hez- ron, the son of Perez, the son of Judah, the son of Jacob, the son of Isaac, the son of Abraham, the son of Terah, the son of Nahor, the son of Serug, the son of Reu, the son of Peleg, the son of Eber, the son of Shelah, the son of Ca-inan, the son of Arphaxad, the son of Shem, the son of Noah, the son of Lamech, the son of Methuselah, the son of Enoch, the son of Jared, the son of Maha1ale-e1, the son of Ca-inan, the son of Enos, the son of Seth, the son of Adam, the son of God.
The Gospel of the Lord
TODAY’S REFLECTION
God the Father established the true sonship of Jesus Christ, the Second Person of the Blessed Trinity, and the Word made flesh through the tree witness of water, blood and the Holy Spirit. Jesus turned the water of Baptism into a source of regeneration, reconciliation and forgiveness of sins for all baptized Christians through the power of the Holy Spirit which He sealed with his blood on the cross of Calvary. Thus, He made Jesus the source of salvation for all humanity and all who believe in Him. He is the beloved Son of the Father in whom God is well pleased. Each of us has become God’s beloved child through our baptism in Christ.
PERSONAL DEVOTIONAL: Day 5
21 DAY NOVENA FOR PERSONAL, FAMILY AND RESTORATION OF OUR NATION IN THE NEW YEAR 2023 (2ND JANUARY - 23RD JANUARY 2023),
FASTING GUIDELINE: (i) Fast on the first day of the prayers, (ii) Every Fridays throughout the period and (iii) The last day of the prayers from 6am – 6pm (You can fast from 6am-12noon or 6am-6pm in the 21days of the Novena prayers if you’re disposed).
KINDLY NOTE: The sick, pregnant women, nursing mothers and the aged are please advised to exercise caution in their fast.
- Pray that the Holy Spirit will remove from your mind all past negative experiences that had worked against you and your family.
Heavenly Father, I come before you as your child, in great need of your help. I have physical health needs, emotional needs, spiritual needs and interpersonal needs. Many of my problems have been caused by my own failures, neglect and sinfulness, for which I humbly beg your forgiveness. I also ask you to forgive the sins of my ancestors whose failures may have left their effects on me in the form of unwanted tendencies, negative behavior patterns and a predisposition toward sin. Heal me, Lord, of all these disorders.
With your help I sincerely forgive everyone, living or dead members of my family lineage, who have directly offended me or my loved ones in any way, or those whose sins have resulted in our present sufferings and disorders. In the name of your divine Son Jesus, by the power of the Holy Spirit, I ask you Father, to deliver me and my entire family lineage from the influence of evil.
Free all members of my family tree, including those in adoptive relationships, and those in extended family relationships, from every contaminating form of bondage. By your loving concern for us, heavenly Father, and by the shed blood of your precious Son Jesus, I beg you to extend your blessing to me and all my living and deceased relatives. Heal every negative effect transmitted through all past generations, and prevent such negative effects in all future generations.
I symbolically place the Cross of Christ over the head of every person in my family lineage and I ask you to let the cleansing Blood of Jesus purify every aspect of my family. Send protective angels to encamp around us and administer to us your divine healing power, even in areas of genetic disability. Give special power to our family members’ guardian angels to heal, protect, guide and encourage each of us in all our needs. Let your healing power be released at this very moment, and let it continue as long as your sovereignty permits.
Replace all bondage in our family lineage with a bonding of holy family love. May there be an ever-deeper bonding with you, Heavenly Father, through the power of your Holy Spirit, to your Son, Jesus Christ. Let the family of the Holy Trinity pervade our family with its tender, warm, loving presence so that our family may recognize and manifest that love in all our relationships; in Jesus’ precious name I pray. Amen.
God of mercy and compassion, our country Nigeria is in a time of great transition. With all of the injustice and fear in our country today, we ask you to inspire us and guide us as we participate in the upcoming elections.
Give us the grace to vote wisely without being enticed or seduced by money or false promises. We seek a government that upholds and protects human rights and justice for all its citizens, regardless of class, gender, or religion. Move and inspire us by your presence among us in the most vulnerable in our society. Thank you Lord for the right to vote, we pray. Amen.
I will live in Your strength and courage, for You are my God. I have faith in You and Your word because I know that Your word never fails. I thank You for the many promises You have spoken over my life, and I place my trust in You. I thank you for the powerful name of Jesus to which every knee shall bow.
Thank you for giving me your authority over all the power of the enemy. Nothing shall harm me.
Thank you for your full armor, your name, your most precious Blood and your Holy Spirit.
No weapon formed against me shall prosper.
Thank you heavenly Father for all your protection and provisions, may your name be praised, both now and forever more Amen.
You are God over all mankind. You are God over everything in my sphere and beyond! There is nothing too hard for you! No situation is too hard! My situation is not too hard for you!! I believe in your power! In Jesus’ name.
Precious Lord, I surrender to your mercy; Lord I surrender to your loving kindness; merciful God, I surrender to your saving grace.
(Repeat as severally as you can)
“I surrender my life and my destiny to you oh Lord, wash it with the BLOOD OF JESUS CHRIST.”
In the power and authority that you have given me, I say to all addictions, perversions, chemical dependencies, hopelessness, worry, doubt, fear, despair and all symptoms of any such illness, that you must submit to the name of Jesus.
I cast down every argument and proud obstacle that exalts itself against the knowledge of God in the mighty name of our Lord Jesus Christ, Amen.
Saturday, January 7, 2023
St. Raymond Penafort, P. (Opt Mem)
Vestment: White
Today’s Rosary: Joyful Mystery
PERSONAL DEVOTIONAL: Day 6
21 DAY NOVENA FOR PERSONAL, FAMILY AND RESTORATION OF OUR NATION IN THE NEW YEAR 2023 (2ND JANUARY - 23RD JANUARY 2023),
-FIRST READING-
“He hears us in whatever we ask.”
A reading from the first Letter of Saint John (1 John 5: 14-21)
Beloved: This is the confidence which we have in the Son of God, that if we ask anything according to his will he hears us. And if we know that he hears us in whatever we ask, we know that we have obtained the requests made of him. If any one sees his brother committing what is not a deadly sin, he will ask, and God will give him life for those whose sin is not deadly. There is sin which is deadly; I do not say that one is to pray for that. All wrongdoing is sin, but there is sin which is not deadly. We know that any one born of God does not sin, but He who was born of God keeps him, and the Evil One does not touch him. We know that we are of God, and the whole world is in the power of the Evil One. And we know that the Son of God has come and has given us understanding, to know him who is true; and we are in him who is true, in his Son Jesus Christ. This is the true God and eternal life. Little children, keep yourselves from idols.
The word of the Lord
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Psalm 149: lb-2.3-4.5-6a and 9b (R. 4a)
R/. The Lord takes delight in his people.
or: Alleluia.
Sing a new song to the Lord,
his praise in the assembly of the faithful.
Let Israel rejoice in its Maker;
let Sion’s children exult in their king. R/.
Let them praise his name with dancing,
and make music with timbrel and harp.
For the Lord takes delight in his people;
he crowns the poor with salvation. R/.
Let the faithful exult in glory,
and rejoice as they take their rest.
Let the praise of God be in their mouths.
This is an honour for all his faithful. R/.
ALLELUIA Luke 7: 16
Alleluia. Alleluia. A great prophet has risen among us, and God has visited his people. Alleluia.
-GOSPEL-
“This, the first of his signs, Jesus did at Cana in Galilee.”
A reading from the holy Gospel according to John (John 2: 1- 11)
At that time: There was a marriage at Cana in Galilee, and the mother of Jesus was there; Jesus also was invited to the marriage, with his disciples. When the wine failed, the mother of Jesus said to him, “They have no wine.” And Jesus said to her, “O woman, what is that to you or to me? My hour has not yet come.” His mother said to the servants, “Do whatever he tells you.” Now six stone jars were standing there, for the Jewish rites of purification, each holding twenty or thirty gallons. Jesus said to them, “Fill the jars with water.” And they filled them up to the brim. He said to them, “Now draw some out, and take it to the steward of the feast.” So they took it. When the steward of the feast tasted the water now become wine, and did not know where it came from (though the servants who had drawn the water knew), the steward of the feast called the bridegroom and said to him, “Every man serves the good wine first; and when men have drunk freely, then the poor wine; but you have kept the good wine until now.” This, the first of his signs, Jesus did at Cana in Galilee, and manifested his glory; and his disciples believed in him.
The Gospel of the Lord.
PERSONAL DEVOTIONAL: Day 6
21 DAY NOVENA FOR PERSONAL, FAMILY AND RESTORATION OF OUR NATION IN THE NEW YEAR 2023 (2ND JANUARY - 23RD JANUARY 2023),
FASTING GUIDELINE: (i) Fast on the first day of the prayers, (ii) Every Fridays throughout the period and (iii) The last day of the prayers from 6am – 6pm (You can fast from 6am-12noon or 6am-6pm in the 21days of the Novena prayers if you’re disposed).
KINDLY NOTE: The sick, pregnant women, nursing mothers and the aged are please advised to exercise caution in their fast.
Heavenly Father, I come before you as your child, in great need of your help. I have physical health needs, emotional needs, spiritual needs and interpersonal needs. Many of my problems have been caused by my own failures, neglect and sinfulness, for which I humbly beg your forgiveness. I also ask you to forgive the sins of my ancestors whose failures may have left their effects on me in the form of unwanted tendencies, negative behavior patterns and a predisposition toward sin. Heal me, Lord, of all these disorders.
With your help I sincerely forgive everyone, living or dead members of my family lineage, who have directly offended me or my loved ones in any way, or those whose sins have resulted in our present sufferings and disorders. In the name of your divine Son Jesus, by the power of the Holy Spirit, I ask you Father, to deliver me and my entire family lineage from the influence of evil.
Free all members of my family tree, including those in adoptive relationships, and those in extended family relationships, from every contaminating form of bondage. By your loving concern for us, heavenly Father, and by the shed blood of your precious Son Jesus, I beg you to extend your blessing to me and all my living and deceased relatives. Heal every negative effect transmitted through all past generations, and prevent such negative effects in all future generations.
I symbolically place the Cross of Christ over the head of every person in my family lineage and I ask you to let the cleansing Blood of Jesus purify every aspect of my family. Send protective angels to encamp around us and administer to us your divine healing power, even in areas of genetic disability. Give special power to our family members’ guardian angels to heal, protect, guide and encourage each of us in all our needs. Let your healing power be released at this very moment, and let it continue as long as your sovereignty permits.
Replace all bondage in our family lineage with a bonding of holy family love. May there be an ever-deeper bonding with you, Heavenly Father, through the power of your Holy Spirit, to your Son, Jesus Christ. Let the family of the Holy Trinity pervade our family with its tender, warm, loving presence so that our family may recognize and manifest that love in all our relationships; in Jesus’ precious name I pray. Amen.
God of mercy and compassion, our country Nigeria is in a time of great transition. With all of the injustice and fear in our country today, we ask you to inspire us and guide us as we participate in the upcoming elections.
Give us the grace to vote wisely without being enticed or seduced by money or false promises. We seek a government that upholds and protects human rights and justice for all its citizens, regardless of class, gender, or religion. Move and inspire us by your presence among us in the most vulnerable in our society. Thank you Lord for the right to vote, we pray. Amen.
I will live in Your strength and courage, for You are my God. I have faith in You and Your word because I know that Your word never fails. I thank You for the many promises You have spoken over my life, and I place my trust in You. I thank you for the powerful name of Jesus to which every knee shall bow.
Thank you for giving me your authority over all the power of the enemy. Nothing shall harm me.
Thank you for your full armor, your name, your most precious Blood and your Holy Spirit.
No weapon formed against me shall prosper.
Thank you heavenly Father for all your protection and provisions, may your name be praised, both now and forever more Amen.
You are God over all mankind. You are God over everything in my sphere and beyond! There is nothing too hard for you! No situation is too hard! My situation is not too hard for you!! I believe in your power! In Jesus’ name.
Precious Lord, I surrender to your mercy; Lord I surrender to your loving kindness; merciful God, I surrender to your saving grace.
(Repeat as severally as you can)
“I surrender my life and my destiny to you oh Lord, wash it with the BLOOD OF JESUS CHRIST.”
In the power and authority that you have given me, I say to all addictions, perversions, chemical dependencies, hopelessness, worry, doubt, fear, despair and all symptoms of any such illness, that you must submit to the name of Jesus.
I cast down every argument and proud obstacle that exalts itself against the knowledge of God in the mighty name of our Lord Jesus Christ, Amen.
Sunday, January 8, 2023
EPIPHANY OF THE LORD (SOLEMNITY)
Office proper, Te Deum
Mass prop, Gloria. Creed. Preface of Epiphany
V¹ -, R¹ -, V² -, R² -,
Vestment: White
Today’s Rosary: Glorious Mystery
Vespers II of the Epiphany of the Lord
PERSONAL DEVOTIONAL: Day 7
21 DAY NOVENA FOR PERSONAL, FAMILY AND RESTORATION OF OUR NATION IN THE NEW YEAR 2023 (2ND JANUARY - 23RD JANUARY 2023).
EPIPHANY OF THE LORD (Solemnity): The Star that Guides All People.
The feast of the Epiphany was first celebrated in Africa, in Egypt, where it replaced a pagan feast that celebrated the victory of light over darkness. The Christian liturgy took over this theme and proposes it for our reflection in the first reading and in the Gospel. The second reading tells us what would happen if we accept the light: we would become one people.
ENTRANCE ANT.
Behold, the Lord, the Mighty One, has come; and kingship is in his grasp, and power and dominion.
COLLECT
O God, who on this day revealed your Only Begotten Son to the nations by the guidance of a star, grant in your mercy, that we who know you already by faith, may be brought to behold the beauty of your sublime glory. Through our Lord…
-FIRST READING-
“The glory of the Lord has risen upon you.”
A reading from the Book of Isaiah (Isaiah 60:1-6)
Arise, shine; for your light has come, and the glory of the Lord has risen upon you. For behold, darkness shall cover the earth, and thick darkness the peoples; but the Loan will arise upon you, and his glory will be seen upon you. And nations shall walk by your light, and kings in the brightness of your rising. Lift up your eyes round about, and see; they all gather together, they come to you; your sons shall come from far, and your daughters shall be carried in the arms. Then you shall see and be radiant, your heart shall thrill and rejoice; because the abundance of the sea shall be turned to you, the wealth of the nations shall come to you. A multitude of camels shall cover you, the young camels of Midian and Ephah; all those from Sheba shall come. They shall bring gold and frankincense, and shall proclaim the praise of the Lord.
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Ps 72:1-2.7-8.10-11.12- 13 (R. cf. 11)
R/. All nations on earth shall fall prostrate before you, O Lord
O God, give your judgement to the king,
to a king’s son your justice,
that he may judge your people in justice,
and your poor in right judgement. R/.
In his days shall justice flourish,
and great peace till the moon is no more.
He shall rule from sea to sea,
from the River to the bounds of the earth. R/.
R/. All nations on earth shall fall prostrate before you, O Lord
The kings of Tarshish and the islands
shall pay him tribute.
The kings of Sheba and Seba
shall bring him gifts.
Before him all kings shall fall prostrate,
all nations shall serve him. R/.
For he shall save the needy when they cry,
the poor, and those who are helpless.
He will have pity on the weak and the needy,
and save the lives of the needy. R/.
-SECOND READING-
“It has now been revealed that the Gentiles are fellow heirs of the promise.”
A reading from the Letter of Saint Paul to the Ephesians (Ephesians 3:2-3a.5-6)
Brethren: I assume that you have heard of the stewardship of God’s grace that was given to me for you, how the mystery was made known to me by revelation, which was not made known to the sons of men in other generations as it has now been revealed to his holy apostles and prophets by the Spirit; that is, how the Gentiles are fellow heirs, members of the same body, and partakers of the promise in Christ Jesus through the Gospel.
The word of the Lord.
ALLELUIA Matthew 2:2
Alleluia. We have seen his star in the east, and have come to worship the Lord. Alleluia.
-GOSPEL-
“We have come from the East to worship the king.”
A reading from the holy Gospel according to Matthew (Matthews 2:1-12)
Now when Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judea in the days of Herod the king, behold, Wise Men from the East came to Jerusalem, saying, “Where is he who has been born king of the Jews? For we have seen his star in the East, and have come to worship him.” When Herod the king heard this, he was troubled, and all Jerusalem with him; and assembling all the chief priests and scribes of the people, he inquired of them where the Christ was to be born. They told him, “In Bethlehem of Judea; for so it is written by the prophet: ‘And you, O Bethlehem, in the land of Judah, are by no means least among the rulers of Judah; for from you shall come a ruler who will govern my people Israel. ”’ Then Herod summoned the Wise Men secretly and ascertained from them what time the star appeared; and he sent them to Bethlehem, saying, “Go and search diligently for the child, and when you have found him bring me word, that I too may come and worship him.” When they had heard the king they went their way; and behold, the star which they had seen in the East went before them, till it came to rest over the place where the child was. When they saw the star, they rejoiced exceedingly with great joy; and going into the house they saw the child with Mary his mother, and they fell down and worshipped him. Then, opening their treasures, they offered him gifts, gold and frankincense and myrrh. And being warned in a dream not to return to Herod, they departed to their own country by another way.
The Gospel of the Lord.
PRAYERS OF THE FAITHFUL
Epiphany of the Lord
Celebrant:
By the guidance of a star, God revealed his Son, Jesus Christ, to the world as a light for the nations. Let us pray that through our words and actions, those who dwell in darkness may be led into the light of Christ.
FOR N., OUR POPE, N., OUR BISHOP AND ALL THE BISHOPS OF THE CHURCH: that, in fulfilling their work of pastoring the flock entrusted to them, they may be guided along the right path by the unfailing light of Christ. Let us pray to the Lord.
FOR PEACE IN OUR COUNTRY: that the light of Christ will shine ever brighter in our country and dispel from it all traces of evil, corruption, insecurity and violence. Let us pray to the Lord.
FOR ALL HUMANITY: that Christ may reveal himself to all men and women of our time with the light that shines forth from him and is reflected in the face of the church. Let us pray to the Lord.
FOR GOD’S BLESSINGS ON US: that, in this year which has just begun, God’s light may continually shine on our path, that he may keep us safe in the hollow of his hands, and grant success to the work of our hands. Let us pray to the Lord.
FOR OTHER INTENTIONS: (the sick, church projects or other activities).
FOR THE DEAD: especially the members of our parish community and families that they may find peace in the kingdom of Our Father. We pray to the Lord.
We pray in silence for our private intentions.
Celebrant:
Lord our God, you constantly reveal to us your Son, the light of the world. Grant us the grace to be bearers of your light in our society. We ask this through Christ our Lord.
R/. Amen.
TODAY’S REFLECTION
The celebration of the solemnity of the Epiphany of the Lord is a commemoration of God’s revelation of Himself to all of humanity, unhindered by any human limitation. The Magi received this revelation through their astrology, which shows that God can reveal himself through any means or person he chooses. This calls us to guard against discrimination of any kind in our Christian living. God is for all of us and reveals himself to all in different ways. Pay attention to the events around you; God could be talking to you through them. When it becomes difficult for you to understand, God will provide you with a star to direct you. He did not fail the Magi; he will not fail you.
PERSONAL DEVOTIONAL: Day 7
21 DAY NOVENA FOR PERSONAL, FAMILY AND RESTORATION OF OUR NATION IN THE NEW YEAR 2023 (2ND JANUARY - 23RD JANUARY 2023),
FASTING GUIDELINE: (i) Fast on the first day of the prayers, (ii) Every Fridays throughout the period and (iii) The last day of the prayers from 6am – 6pm (You can fast from 6am-12noon or 6am-6pm in the 21days of the Novena prayers if you’re disposed).
KINDLY NOTE: The sick, pregnant women, nursing mothers and the aged are please advised to exercise caution in their fast.
Hebrews 11 tells us that without faith it is impossible to please God.
Consequently, without faith, it is improbable to receive from the Lord. Asking and believing are equal requirements for receiving from the Lord. Even seasoned believers go through times of unbelief. Thomas, one of the disciples who had spent 3 years under the tutelage of Christ himself doubted!
Your prayer life yields more and more results as your faith increases. Peter who denies Christ 3 times turned the world upside down when his faith was in the right place, and he was backed by the Holy Spirit. I pray that you would receive the Holy Spirit today if you haven’t already.
Jeremiah 32:27 says, “I am the Lord, the God of all mankind. Is anything too hard for me?
Let us start with a confession of faith. Say it with your own mouth and hear it. Faith comes by HEARING! Father, you are Lord, you alone are my God!
You are God over all mankind. You are God over everything in my sphere and beyond!
There is nothing too hard for you! No situation is too hard! My situation is not too hard for you!! I believe in your power! In Jesus’ name.
Lord may my heart be set on you. I repent of desires that are put ahead of your kingdom. Lord may my heart yearn for you. As a deer yearns for the water, let my soul also yearn for you oh God! By this obedience, let all these things be added to me. May my heart’s desire be added to me.
Joel 2:12-13 says, “Even now,” declares the Lord, “return to me with all your heart, with fasting and weeping and mourning.” 'Rend your heart and not your garments. Return to the Lord your God, for he is gracious and compassionate, slow to anger and abounding in love, and he relents from sending calamity.
Lord, we repent of times where we have given material things at the expense of our heart. It is not our material things that you desire, Lord. Father, we give our hearts.
Lord, God Almighty, I thank you for protecting me from every form of evil and bringing me the gift of your divine health. I thank you for breaking the chains of oppression and delivering me from every form of sin, sickness, disease and lie of the enemy. I thank you for the powerful name of Jesus to which every knee shall bow. Thank you for giving me your authority over all the power of the enemy. Nothing shall harm me. Thank you for your full armor, your name, your most precious Blood and your Holy Spirit.
No weapon formed against me shall prosper. Thank you heavenly father for all your protection and provisions, for yours is the kingdom, the power and the glory, now and forevermore. Amen
You are God over all mankind. You are God over everything in my sphere and beyond! There is nothing too hard for you! No situation is too hard! My situation is not too hard for you!! I believe in your power! In Jesus’ name.
Precious Lord, I surrender to your mercy; Lord I surrender to your loving kindness; merciful God, I surrender to your saving grace.
(Repeat as severally as you can)
“I surrender my life and my destiny to you oh Lord, wash it with the BLOOD OF JESUS CHRIST.”
In the power and authority that you have given me, I say to all addictions, perversions, chemical dependencies, hopelessness, worry, doubt, fear, despair and all symptoms of any such illness, that you must submit to the name of Jesus.
I cast down every argument and proud obstacle that exalts itself against the knowledge of God in the mighty name of our Lord Jesus Christ, Amen.
ROSARY OF LIBERATION (Personal Devotion)
THE Rosary OF LIBERATION begins with Apostles’ Creed and ends with the Hail Holy Queen.
In the place of the Our Father [on the large beads], we will pray the Words of God, “if the Son makes you free, you will be free in deed” (John 8:36)
For example, if I am praying for myself, I would say (on the large beads of the Rosary):
IF JESUS MAKES ME FREE, I WILL BE FREE INDEED.
If I am praying for my family, I would say:
IF JESUS MAKES MY FAMILY FREE, MY FAMILY WILL BE FREE INDEED.
It is the word of God that is proclaimed.
In place of the Hail Mary’s (on the small beads), pray
JESUS, HAVE MERCY ON ME!
JESUS, HEAL ME! (3x)
If you are praying for your family, you should pray on each small bead:
JESUS, HAVE MERCY ON MY FAMILY!
JESUS, HEAL MY FAMILY! (3x)
And on the large beads:
IF JESUS MAKES MY FAMILY FREE, MY FAMILY WILL BE FREE INDEED.
If you are praying for a special person, for example (Mention the Name of the person),:
On the large beads of the Rosary say:
IF JESUS MAKES (NAME) FREE, (NAME) WILL BE FREE INDEED.
Then on the small beads:
JESUS, HAVE MERCY ON (NAME)!
JESUS, HEAL (NAME)!
JESUS, SAVE (NAME)!
JESUS, FREE (NAME)!
After praying the Rosary of Liberation completely, give thanks to Jesus for the blessings that he is pouring over you and those for whom you are interceding.
LET US PRAY: Lord Jesus, we praise and thank you, because you, through your mercy and pity. Created this powerful prayer to produce marvelous fruits of healing. Salvation and freedom in our lives, in our families, and in the lives of those for whom we pray. Thank you, Jesus, for you infinite love for us! And heavenly father, we love you, Father, with all the confidence of children. We draw nearer to you, at this moment, and pray that the Holy Spirit flows into our hearts. Father, so that the Holy Spirit can come into us, we want to empty ourselves. So, before the Cross of Jesus Christ, we renew our complete and unconditional deliverance to you. We ask that all our sins be forgiven and placed, now, on the wounded body of Jesus. We empty ourselves of all afflictions, worries, anguish, and all that have taken the joy from our lives. We deliver our heart to you, in the name of Jesus. Father, we also place on the crucified body of Jesus all our infirmities of body, soul and spirit; our worries about our families and work; our financial and marital problems; and all our anguish, uncertainties and affliction. Lord, we beseech the redeeming power of the Blood of Jesus. May this blood come over us now to cleanse and purify our hearts of all bad feelings. Jesus, have mercy on me! Jesus have mercy on us! Yes Father, we want to turn over to you all our desires, weaknesses, miseries, and sins; our hearts, body, soul, and spirit, everything that we are and have: our faith life, marriage, family, work, vocation, and ministry… fill us with your spirit Lord! Fill us with your love, with your power and with your life! Come, Holy Spirit of God! Come and bring to life the word of God in us, proclaimed through the Rosary of Liberation, and that this bring about in every heart the grace to heal, in the name of JESUS Christ our Lord. Amen.
Easy, isn’t it? You will see at the end of the Rosary of Liberation the effects of God’s grace in yourself, in your family, or in the life of those for whom you are praying. The heavenly Father will send healing, salvation and liberation. When you are praying this Rosary, you proclaim the name of Jesus 205 times.
Monday January 9, 2023
THE FEAST OF THE BAPTISM OF THE LORD
Office proper, Te Deum
Mass prop. Gloria, Preface of the Baptism of the Lord
Vestment: White
Today’s Rosary: Joyful Mystery
END OF CHRISTMAS SEASON
The Ordinary time of the Year (Part 1) begins till Tuesday before Ash Wednesday.
PERSONAL DEVOTIONAL: Day 8
21 DAY NOVENA FOR PERSONAL, FAMILY AND RESTORATION OF OUR NATION IN THE NEW YEAR 2023 (2ND JANUARY - 23RD JANUARY 2023).
THEME OF THE FEAST: Jesus Begins
His Public Life. After the Christmas festivities, the liturgy presents us with the public life of Jesus, which begins with his baptism by John. The first reading describes the call, the gift of the Spirit and the mission of the “servant of the Lord.” The Gospel shows that Jesus is this faithful “servant” of the Father. The word of God this Sunday invites all Christians to follow Jesus who is about to begin a journey that will take him to death and resurrection.
ENTRANCE ANTIPHON
After the Lord was baptised, the heavens were opened, and the Spirit descended upon him like a dove, and the voice of the Father thundered: This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased.
The Gloria in excels is (Glory to God in the highest) is said.
COLLECT
Almighty ever living God, who when Christ had been baptised in the River Jordan, and as the Holy Spirit descended upon him, solemnly declared him your beloved Son, grant that your children by adoption, reborn of water and the Holy Spirit, may always be well pleasing to you. Through our Lord. . .
O God, whose Only Begotten Son has appeared in our very flesh, grant, we pray, that we may be inwardly transformed through him whom we recognise as outwardly like ourselves. Who lives and reigns with you.
-FIRST READING-
“Behold my servant, my chosen one, in whom my soul delights. ”
A reading from the Book of Isaiah (Isaiah 42: 1-4.6-7)
Thus says the Lord: Behold my servant, whom I uphold, chosen, in whom my soul delights; I have put my Spirit upon him, he will bring forth justice to the nations. He will not cry or lift up his voice, or make it heard in the street; a bruised reed he will not break, and a dimly burning wick he will not quench; he will faithfully bring forth justice. He will not fail or be discouraged till he has established justice in the earth; and the islands wait for his law. “I am the Lord, I have called you in righteousness, I have taken you by the hand and kept you; I have given you as a covenant to the people, a light to the nations, to open the eyes that are blind, to bring out the prisoners from the dungeon, from the prison those who sit in darkness.”
The word of the Lord.
OR
“God anointed him with the Holy Spirit. ”
A reading from the Acts of the Apostles (Acts 10:34-38)
In those days: Peter opened his mouth and said, “Truly I perceive that God shows no partiality, but in every nation any one who fears him and does what is right is acceptable to him. You know the word which he sent to the sons of Israel, preaching good news of peace by Jesus Christ (he is Lord of all), the word which was proclaimed throughout all Judea, beginning from Galilee after the baptism which John preached: how God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Spirit and with power; how he went about doing good and healing all that were oppressed by the devil, for God was with him.”
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Psalm 29:1a and 2.3ac-4.3b and 9c- 11 (R.11b)
R/. The Lord will bless his people with peace.
Ascribe to the Lord, you heavenly powers,
ascribe to the Lord the glory of his name;
bow down before the Lord, majestic in holiness. R/.
The voice of the Lord upon the waters,
the Lord on the immensity of waters;
the voice of the Lord full of power;
the voice of the Lord full of splendour. R/.
The God of glory thunders;
in his temple they all cry, “Glory!”
The Lord sat enthroned above the flood;
the Lord sits as king forever. R/.
ALLELUIA Cf. Mark 9:6
Alleluia. The heavens opened and the Father’s voice was heard: “This is my beloved Son, listen to him.” Alleluia.
-GOSPEL-
“When Jesus was baptised the heavens were opened and the Spirit of God came upon him. ”
A reading from the holy Gospel according to Matthew (Matthew 3: 13-17)
At that time: Jesus came from Galilee to the Jordan to John, to be baptised by him. John would have prevented him, saying, “I need to be baptised by you, and do you come to me?” But Jesus answered him, “Let it be so now; for thus it is fitting for us to fulfil all righteousness.” Then he consented. And when Jesus was baptised, he went up immediately from the water, and behold, the heavens were opened and he saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove, and alighting on him; and behold, a voice from heaven, saying, “This is my beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased.”
The Gospel of the Lord
PRAYER OF THE FAITHFUL
Baptism of the Lord
Celebrant:
Through the grace of baptism, God has made us children of light. Let us pray to him that we may always walk in that light and be witnesses of the Gospel before all persons.
FOR THE LEADERS OF THE CHURCH: that they may be true light to the nations and, through their ministry, bring God’s salvation to all persons. Let us pray to the Lord.
FOR THE LEADERS OF OUR COUNTRY: that they may be led by God’s spirit towards selflessly serving the people and bringing about justice, peace, and lasting development in our land. Let us pray to the Lord.
FOR ALL THOSE IN DIFFICULTY: that, amid their trials, their faith may remain firm, and that our God, who never fails, may come to their aid. Let us pray to the Lord.
FOR ALL OF US WHO ARE BAPTIZED: that we may engage in evangelization by bearing witness to Christ in our ordinary life situations. Let us pray to the Lord.
For other intentions: (the sick, church projects or other activities).
For the dead: especially the members of our parish community and families that they may find peace in the kingdom of Our Father. We pray to the Lord.
We pray in silence for our private intentions.
Celebrant:
Lord God, it is your will that all people be baptized and receive your gift of salvation. Hear and answer our prayers and give us the grace to imitate you in living out an authentic life of service. Through Christ our Lord.
R/. Amen.
PERSONAL DEVOTIONAL: Day 8
21 DAY NOVENA FOR PERSONAL, FAMILY AND RESTORATION OF OUR NATION IN THE NEW YEAR 2023 (2ND JANUARY - 23RD JANUARY 2023).
FASTING GUIDELINE: (i) Fast on the first day of the prayers, (ii) Every Fridays throughout the period and (iii) The last day of the prayers from 6am – 6pm (You can fast from 6am-12noon or 6am-6pm in the 21days of the Novena prayers if you’re disposed).
KINDLY NOTE: The sick, pregnant women, nursing mothers and the aged are please advised to exercise caution in their fast.
Hebrews 11 tells us that without faith it is impossible to please God. Consequently, without faith, it is improbable to receive from the Lord. Asking and believing are equal requirements for receiving from the Lord. Even seasoned believers go through times of unbelief. Thomas, one of the disciples who had spent 3 years under the tutelage of Christ himself doubted!
Your prayer life yields more and more results as your faith increases. Peter who denies Christ 3 times turned the world upside down when his faith was in the right place, and he was backed by the Holy Spirit. I pray that you would receive the Holy Spirit today if you haven’t already.
Jeremiah 32:27 says, “I am the Lord, the God of all mankind. Is anything too hard for me?
Let us start with a confession of faith. Say it with your own mouth and hear it. Faith comes by HEARING! Father, you are Lord, you alone are my God!
You are God over all mankind. You are God over everything in my sphere and beyond!
There is nothing too hard for you! No situation is too hard! My situation is not too hard for you!! I believe in your power! In Jesus’ name.
Lord may my heart be set on you. I repent of desires that are put ahead of your kingdom. Lord may my heart yearn for you. As a deer pants for the water, let my soul also yearn for you oh God! By this obedience, let all these things be added to me. May my heart’s desire be added to me.
Joel 2:12-13 says, “Even now,” declares the Lord, “return to me with all your heart, with fasting and weeping and mourning.” 'Rend your heart and not your garments. Return to the Lord your God, for he is gracious and compassionate, slow to anger and abounding in love, and he relents from sending calamity.
Lord, we repent of times where we have given material at the expense of our heart. It is not material that you desire, Lord. Father, we give our hearts.
Lord, God Almighty, I thank you for protecting me from every form of evil and bringing me the gift of your divine health. I thank you for breaking the chains of oppression and delivering me from every form of sin, sickness, disease and lie of the enemy. I thank you for the powerful name of Jesus to which every knee shall bow. Thank you for giving me your authority over all the power of the enemy. Nothing shall harm me. Thank you for your full armor, your name, your most precious Blood and your Holy Spirit.
No weapon formed against me shall prosper. Thank you heavenly father for all your protection and provisions, for yours is the kingdom, the power and the glory, now and forevermore. Amen
You are God over all mankind. You are God over everything in my sphere and beyond! There is nothing too hard for you! No situation is too hard! My situation is not too hard for you!! I believe in your power! In Jesus’ name.
Precious Lord, I surrender to your mercy; Lord I surrender to your loving kindness; merciful God, I surrender to your saving grace.
(Repeat as severally as you can)
“I surrender my life and my destiny to you oh Lord, wash it with the BLOOD OF JESUS CHRIST.”
In the power and authority that you have given me, I say to all addictions, perversions, chemical dependencies, hopelessness, worry, doubt, fear, despair and all symptoms of any such illness, that you must submit to the name of Jesus.
I cast down every argument and proud obstacle that exalts itself against the knowledge of God in the mighty name of our Lord Jesus Christ, Amen.
ROSARY OF LIBERATION (Personal Devotion)
THE Rosary OF LIBERATION begins with Apostles’ Creed and ends with the Hail Holy Queen.
In the place of the Our Father [on the large beads], we will pray the Words of God,
“if the Son makes you free, you will be free in deed” (John 8:36)
For example, if I am praying for myself, I would say (on the large beads of the Rosary):
IF JESUS MAKES ME FREE, I WILL BE FREE INDEED.
If I am praying for my family, I would say:
IF JESUS MAKES MY FAMILY FREE, MY FAMILY WILL BE FREE INDEED.
It is the word of God that is proclaimed.
In place of the Hail Mary’s (on the small beads), pray
JESUS, HAVE MERCY ON ME!
JESUS, HEAL ME! (3x)
If you are praying for your family, you should pray on each small bead:
JESUS, HAVE MERCY ON MY FAMILY!
JESUS, HEAL MY FAMILY! (3x)
And on the large beads:
IF JESUS MAKES MY FAMILY FREE, MY FAMILY WILL BE FREE INDEED.
If you are praying for a special person, for example (Mention the Name of the person),:
On the large beads of the Rosary say:
IF JESUS MAKES (NAME) FREE, (NAME) WILL BE FREE INDEED.
Then on the small beads:
JESUS, HAVE MERCY ON (NAME)!
JESUS, HEAL (NAME)!
JESUS, SAVE (NAME)!
JESUS, FREE (NAME)!
After praying the Rosary of Liberation completely, give thanks to Jesus for the blessings that he is pouring over you and those for whom you are interceding.
LET US PRAY: Lord Jesus, we praise and thank you, because you, through your mercy and pity. Created this powerful prayer to produce marvelous fruits of healing. Salvation and freedom in our lives, in our families, and in the lives of those for whom we pray. Thank you, Jesus, for you infinite love for us! And heavenly father, we love you, Father, with all the confidence of children. We draw nearer to you, at this moment, and pray that the Holy Spirit flows into our hearts. Father, so that the Holy Spirit can come into us, we want to empty ourselves. So, before the Cross of Jesus Christ, we renew our complete and unconditional deliverance to you. We ask that all our sins be forgiven and placed, now, on the wounded body of Jesus. We empty ourselves of all afflictions, worries, anguish, and all that have taken the joy from our lives. We deliver our heart to you, in the name of Jesus. Father, we also place on the crucified body of Jesus all our infirmities of body, soul and spirit; our worries about our families and work; our financial and marital problems; and all our anguish, uncertainties and affliction. Lord, we beseech the redeeming power of the Blood of Jesus. May this blood come over us now to cleanse and purify our hearts of all bad feelings. Jesus, have mercy on me! Jesus have mercy on us! Yes Father, we want to turn over to you all our desires, weaknesses, miseries, and sins; our hearts, body, soul, and spirit, everything that we are and have: our faith life, marriage, family, work, vocation, and ministry… fill us with your spirit Lord! Fill us with your love, with your power and with your life! Come, Holy Spirit of God! Come and bring to life the word of God in us, proclaimed through the Rosary of Liberation, and that this bring about in every heart the grace to heal, in the name of JESUS Christ our Lord. Amen.
Tuesday, January 10, 2023
FIRST WEEK OF ORDINARY TIME
Office: Psalter Week 1
Mass and Preface of the day
Vestment: Green
Today’s Rosary: Sorrowful Mysteries
Death anniversary of Bishop J. Daman OSA of Shendam 12/01/15
PERSONAL DEVOTIONAL: Day 9
21 DAY NOVENA FOR PERSONAL, FAMILY AND RESTORATION OF OUR NATION IN THE NEW YEAR 2023 (2ND JANUARY – 22ND JANUARY 2023).
-FIRST READING-
“It was fitting that he should make the pioneer of their salvation perfect through suffering.”
A reading from the Letter to the Hebrews (Hebrews 2:5-12)
It was not to angels that God subjected the world to come, of which we are speaking. It has been testified somewhere, “What is man that you are mindful of him, or the son of man, that you care for him? You made him for a little while lower than the angels, You have crowned him with glory and honour, putting everything in subjection under his feet.” Now in putting everything in subjection to him, he left nothing outside his control. As it is, we do not yet see everything in subjection to him. But we see Jesus, who for a little while was made lower than the angels, crowned with glory and honour because of the suffering of death, so that by the grace of God he might taste death for every one. For it was fitting that he, for whom and by whom all things exist, in bringing many sons to glory, should make the pioneer of their salvation perfect through suffering. For he who sanctifies and those who are sanctified have all one origin. That is why he is not ashamed to call them brethren, saying, “I will proclaim your name to my brethren, in the midst of the congregation I will praise you!”
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Psalm 8:2ab and 5.6-7a.7b-9 (R. cf. 7a)
R/. You have given your Son power over the works of your hands.
O Lord, our Lord, how majestic
is your name through all the earth!
What is man that you should keep him in mind,
the son of man that you care for him? R/.
Yet you have made him little lower than the angels;
with glory and honour you crowned him,
gave him power over the works of your hands. R/.
You put all things under his feet,
all of them, sheep and oxen,
yes, even the cattle of the fields,
birds of the air, and fish of the sea
that make their way through the waters. R/.
ALLELUIA 1 Thessalonians 2:13
Alleluia. Accept the word of God, not as the word of men, but as what it really is, the word of God. Alleluia.
-GOSPEL-
“He taught them as one who had authority.”
A reading from the holy Gospel according to Mark (Mark 1: 21b-28)
[In the city of Capernaum,] Jesus entered the synagogue on the Sabbath and taught. And they were astonished at his teaching, for he taught them as one who had authority, and not as the scribes. And immediately there was in their synagogue a man with an unclean spirit; and he cried out, “What have you to do with us, Jesus of Nazareth? Have you come to destroy us? I know who you are, the Holy One of God.” But Jesus rebuked him, saying, “Be silent, and come out of him!” And the unclean spirit, convulsing him and crying with a loud voice, came out of him. And they were all amazed, so that they questioned among themselves, saying, “What is this? A new teaching! With authority he commands even the unclean spirits, and they obey him.” And at once his fame spread everywhere throughout all the surrounding region of Galilee.
The Gospel of the Lord.
TODAY’S REFLECTION
Today we are reminded of the fact that what is in us is greater than what is in the world. And that: “We are from God and have overcome all things.” Often, men does not recognize the power that God has bestowed on him. We allow fear to take the best from us. This truth, spoken by the psalmist, is echoed in the first reading: that God make man higher than the angels and placed all things under his authority. This is what we have inherited through our adoption in Christ Jesus. This authority issues from CHRIST, who puts fear into evil forces and they obey Him. We must remain attached to Jesus to do greater works that HE did.
PERSONAL DEVOTIONAL: Day 9
21 DAY NOVENA FOR PERSONAL, FAMILY AND RESTORATION OF OUR NATION IN THE NEW YEAR 2023 (2ND JANUARY – 22ND JANUARY 2023).
FASTING GUIDELINE: (i) Fast on the first day of the prayers, (ii) Every Fridays throughout the period and (iii) The last day of the prayers from 6am – 6pm (You can fast from 6am-12noon or 6am-6pm in the 21days of the Novena prayers if you’re disposed).
KINDLY NOTE: The sick, pregnant women, nursing mothers and the aged are please advised to exercise caution in their fast.
Hebrews 11 tells us that without faith it is impossible to please God. Consequently, without faith, it is improbable to receive from the Lord. Asking and believing are equal requirements for receiving from the Lord. Even seasoned believers go through times of unbelief. Thomas, one of the disciples who had spent 3 years under the tutelage of Christ himself doubted!
Your prayer life yields more and more results as your faith increases. Peter who denies Christ 3 times turned the world upside down when his faith was in the right place, and he was backed by the Holy Spirit. I pray that you would receive the Holy Spirit today if you haven’t already.
Jeremiah 32:27 says, “I am the Lord, the God of all mankind. Is anything too hard for me?
Let us start with a confession of faith. Say it with your own mouth and hear it. Faith comes by HEARING! Father, you are Lord, you alone are my God!
You are God over all mankind. You are God over everything in my sphere and beyond!
There is nothing too hard for you! No situation is too hard! My situation is not too hard for you!! I believe in your power! In Jesus’ name.
Lord may my heart be set on you. I repent of desires that are put ahead of your kingdom. Lord may my heart yearn for you. As a deer pants for the water, let my soul also yearn for you oh God! By this obedience, let all these things be added to me. May my heart’s desire be added to me.
Joel 2:12-13 says, “Even now,” declares the Lord, “return to me with all your heart, with fasting and weeping and mourning.” 'Rend your heart and not your garments. Return to the Lord your God, for he is gracious and compassionate, slow to anger and abounding in love, and he relents from sending calamity.
Lord, we repent of times where we have given material at the expense of our heart. It is not material that you desire, Lord. Father, we give our hearts.
Lord, God Almighty, I thank you for protecting me from every form of evil and bringing me the gift of your divine health. I thank you for breaking the chains of oppression and delivering me from every form of sin, sickness, disease and lie of the enemy. I thank you for the powerful name of Jesus to which every knee shall bow. Thank you for giving me your authority over all the power of the enemy. Nothing shall harm me. Thank you for your full armor, your name, your most precious Blood and your Holy Spirit.
No weapon formed against me shall prosper. Thank you heavenly father for all your protection and provisions, for yours is the kingdom, the power and the glory, now and forevermore. Amen
You are God over all mankind. You are God over everything in my sphere and beyond! There is nothing too hard for you! No situation is too hard! My situation is not too hard for you!! I believe in your power! In Jesus’ name.
Precious Lord, I surrender to your mercy; Lord I surrender to your loving kindness; merciful God, I surrender to your saving grace.
(Repeat as severally as you can)
“I surrender my life and my destiny to you oh Lord, wash it with the BLOOD OF JESUS CHRIST.”
In the power and authority that you have given me, I say to all addictions, perversions, chemical dependencies, hopelessness, worry, doubt, fear, despair and all symptoms of any such illness, that you must submit to the name of Jesus.
I cast down every argument and proud obstacle that exalts itself against the knowledge of God in the mighty name of our Lord Jesus Christ, Amen.
ROSARY OF LIBERATION (Personal Devotion)
THE Rosary OF LIBERATION begins with Apostles’ Creed and ends with the Hail Holy Queen.
In the place of the Our Father [on the large beads], we will pray the Words of God,
“if the Son makes you free, you will be free in deed” (John 8:36)
For example, if I am praying for myself, I would say (on the large beads of the Rosary):
IF JESUS MAKES ME FREE, I WILL BE FREE INDEED.
If I am praying for my family, I would say:
IF JESUS MAKES MY FAMILY FREE, MY FAMILY WILL BE FREE INDEED.
It is the word of God that is proclaimed.
In place of the Hail Mary’s (on the small beads), pray
JESUS, HAVE MERCY ON ME!
JESUS, HEAL ME! (3x)
If you are praying for your family, you should pray on each small bead:
JESUS, HAVE MERCY ON MY FAMILY!
JESUS, HEAL MY FAMILY! (3x)
And on the large beads:
IF JESUS MAKES MY FAMILY FREE, MY FAMILY WILL BE FREE INDEED.
If you are praying for a special person, for example (Mention the Name of the person),:
On the large beads of the Rosary say:
IF JESUS MAKES (NAME) FREE, (NAME) WILL BE FREE INDEED.
Then on the small beads:
JESUS, HAVE MERCY ON (NAME)!
JESUS, HEAL (NAME)!
JESUS, SAVE (NAME)!
JESUS, FREE (NAME)!
After praying the Rosary of Liberation completely, give thanks to Jesus for the blessings that he is pouring over you and those for whom you are interceding.
LET US PRAY: Lord Jesus, we praise and thank you, because you, through your mercy and pity. Created this powerful prayer to produce marvelous fruits of healing. Salvation and freedom in our lives, in our families, and in the lives of those for whom we pray. Thank you, Jesus, for you infinite love for us! And heavenly father, we love you, Father, with all the confidence of children. We draw nearer to you, at this moment, and pray that the Holy Spirit flows into our hearts. Father, so that the Holy Spirit can come into us, we want to empty ourselves. So, before the Cross of Jesus Christ, we renew our complete and unconditional deliverance to you. We ask that all our sins be forgiven and placed, now, on the wounded body of Jesus. We empty ourselves of all afflictions, worries, anguish, and all that have taken the joy from our lives. We deliver our heart to you, in the name of Jesus. Father, we also place on the crucified body of Jesus all our infirmities of body, soul and spirit; our worries about our families and work; our financial and marital problems; and all our anguish, uncertainties and affliction. Lord, we beseech the redeeming power of the Blood of Jesus. May this blood come over us now to cleanse and purify our hearts of all bad feelings. Jesus, have mercy on me! Jesus have mercy on us! Yes Father, we want to turn over to you all our desires, weaknesses, miseries, and sins; our hearts, body, soul, and spirit, everything that we are and have: our faith life, marriage, family, work, vocation, and ministry… fill us with your spirit Lord! Fill us with your love, with your power and with your life! Come, Holy Spirit of God! Come and bring to life the word of God in us, proclaimed through the Rosary of Liberation, and that this bring about in every heart the grace to heal, in the name of JESUS Christ our Lord. Amen.
Wednesday, January 11 2023
Office Psalter Week 1
Mass and Preface of the day
Vestment: Green
Today’s Rosary: Joyful Mystery
PERSONAL DEVOTIONAL: Day 10
21 DAY NOVENA FOR PERSONAL, FAMILY AND RESTORATION OF OUR NATION IN THE NEW YEAR 2023 (2ND JANUARY – 22ND JANUARY 2023).
-FIRST READING-
“He had to be made like his brethren in every respect, so that he might become merciful.”
A reading from the Letter to the Hebrews (Hebrews 2:14-18)
Since the children share in flesh and blood, Jesus himself likewise partook of the same nature, that through death he might destroy him who has the power of death, that is, the devil, and deliver all those who through fear of death were subject to lifelong bondage. For surely it is not with angels that he is concerned but with the descendants of Abraham. Therefore he had to be made like his brethren in every respect, so that he might become a merciful and faithful high priest in the service of God, to make expiation for the sins of the people. For because he himself has suffered and been tempted, he is able to help those who are tempted.
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Psalm 105:1-2. 3-4. 6-7. 8-9
R/. The Lord remembers his covenant forever.
Or: Alleluia.
Give thanks to the Lord; proclaim his name.
Make known his deeds among the peoples.
O sing to him, sing his praise;
tell all his wonderful works! R/.
Glory in his holy name;
let the hearts that seek the Lord rejoice.
Turn to the Lord and his strength;
constantly seek his face. R/.
R/. The Lord remembers his covenant forever.
Or: Alleluia.
O children of Abraham, his servant,
O descendants of the Jacob he chose, he,
the Lord, is our God;
his judgements are in all the earth. R/.
He remembers his covenant forever:
the promise he ordained for a thousand generations,
the covenant he made with Abraham,
the oath he swore to Isaac. R/.
ALLELUIA John 10:27
Alleluia. My sheep hear my voice, says the Lord; and I know them, and they follow me. Alleluia.
-GOSPEL-
“He healed many who were sick with diseases.”
A reading from the holy Gospel according to Mark (Mark 1:29-39)
At that time: Jesus left the synagogue, and entered the house of Simon and Andrew, with James and John. Now Simon’s mother- in-law lay sick with a fever, and immediately they told him of her. And he came and took her by the hand and lifted her up, and the fever left her; and she served them. That evening, at sundown, they brought to him all who were sick or possessed with demons. And the whole city was gathered together about the door. And he healed many who were sick with various diseases, and cast out many demons; and he would not permit the demons to speak, because they knew him. And in the morning, a great while before day, he rose and went out to a lonely place, and there he prayed. And Simon and those who were with him followed him, and they found him and said to him, “Every one is searching for you.” And he said to them, “Let us go on to the next towns, that I may preach there also; for that is why I came out.” And he went throughout all Galilee, preaching in their synagogues and casting out demons.
The Gospel of the Lord.
TODAY’S REFLECTION
The mystery of God’s love for man is seen in Jesus, the incarnation of God, who condescended to take human flesh. To be like us He took upon Himself everything of ours, save sin. This divine union brought man salvation from the powers of death. Such a union makes Jesus our brother in the faith of Abraham. The mercy of God comes to us through this union, since He has passed through our nature. The benefits we have from this union are many. This is why Jesus goes around doing good and healing all our infirmities. We must utilize the grace of this union and adoption in Christ by faithfully and spiritually inviting Him into our home and heart.
TODAY'S SAINT AND QUOTES: St Hilary of Poiters – January 13th
Little children follow and obey their father. They love their mother. They know nothing of covetousness, ill-will, bad temper, arrogance and lying. This state of mind opens the road to heaven.
To imitate our Lord’s own humility, we must return to the simplicity of God’s little ones.
PERSONAL DEVOTIONAL: Day 10
21 DAY NOVENA FOR PERSONAL, FAMILY AND RESTORATION OF OUR NATION IN THE NEW YEAR 2023 (2ND JANUARY – 22ND JANUARY 2023).
FASTING GUIDELINE: (i) Fast on the first day of the prayers, (ii) Every Fridays throughout the period and (iii) The last day of the prayers from 6am – 6pm (You can fast from 6am-12noon or 6am-6pm in the 21days of the Novena prayers if you’re disposed).
KINDLY NOTE: The sick, pregnant women, nursing mothers and the aged are please advised to exercise caution in their fast.
Hebrews 11 tells us that without faith it is impossible to please God. Consequently, without faith, it is improbable to receive from the Lord. Asking and believing are equal requirements for receiving from the Lord. Even seasoned believers go through times of unbelief. Thomas, one of the disciples who had spent 3 years under the tutelage of Christ himself doubted!
Your prayer life yields more and more results as your faith increases. Peter who denies Christ 3 times turned the world upside down when his faith was in the right place, and he was backed by the Holy Spirit. I pray that you would receive the Holy Spirit today if you haven’t already.
Jeremiah 32:27 says, “I am the Lord, the God of all mankind. Is anything too hard for me?
Let us start with a confession of faith. Say it with your own mouth and hear it. Faith comes by HEARING! Father, you are Lord, you alone are my God!
You are God over all mankind. You are God over everything in my sphere and beyond!
There is nothing too hard for you! No situation is too hard! My situation is not too hard for you!! I believe in your power! In Jesus’ name.
Lord may my heart be set on you. I repent of desires that are put ahead of your kingdom. Lord may my heart yearn for you. As a deer pants for the water, let my soul also yearn for you oh God! By this obedience, let all these things be added to me. May my heart’s desire be added to me.
Joel 2:12-13 says, “Even now,” declares the Lord, “return to me with all your heart, with fasting and weeping and mourning.” 'Rend your heart and not your garments. Return to the Lord your God, for he is gracious and compassionate, slow to anger and abounding in love, and he relents from sending calamity.
Lord, we repent of times where we have given material at the expense of our heart. It is not material things that you desire, Lord. Father, we give our hearts.
Lord, God Almighty, I thank you for protecting me from every form of evil and bringing me the gift of your divine health. I thank you for breaking the chains of oppression and delivering me from every form of sin, sickness, disease and lie of the enemy. I thank you for the powerful name of Jesus to which every knee shall bow. Thank you for giving me your authority over all the power of the enemy. Nothing shall harm me. Thank you for your full armor, your name, your most precious Blood and your Holy Spirit.
No weapon formed against me shall prosper. Thank you heavenly father for all your protection and provisions, for yours is the kingdom, the power and the glory, now and forevermore. Amen
You are God over all mankind. You are God over everything in my sphere and beyond! There is nothing too hard for you! No situation is too hard! My situation is not too hard for you!! I believe in your power! In Jesus’ name.
Precious Lord, I surrender to your mercy; Lord I surrender to your loving kindness; merciful God, I surrender to your saving grace.
(Repeat as severally as you can)
“I surrender my life and my destiny to you oh Lord, wash it with the BLOOD OF JESUS CHRIST.”
In the power and authority that you have given me, I say to all addictions, perversions, chemical dependencies, hopelessness, worry, doubt, fear, despair and all symptoms of any such illness, that you must submit to the name of Jesus.
I cast down every argument and proud obstacle that exalts itself against the knowledge of God in the mighty name of our Lord Jesus Christ, Amen.
ROSARY OF LIBERATION (Personal Devotion)
THE Rosary OF LIBERATION begins with Apostles’ Creed and ends with the Hail Holy Queen.
In the place of the Our Father [on the large beads], we will pray the Words of God,
“if the Son makes you free, you will be free in deed” (John 8:36)
For example, if I am praying for myself, I would say (on the large beads of the Rosary):
IF JESUS MAKES ME FREE, I WILL BE FREE INDEED.
If I am praying for my family, I would say:
IF JESUS MAKES MY FAMILY FREE, MY FAMILY WILL BE FREE INDEED.
It is the word of God that is proclaimed.
In place of the Hail Mary’s (on the small beads), pray
JESUS, HAVE MERCY ON ME!
JESUS, HEAL ME! (3x)
If you are praying for your family, you should pray on each small bead:
JESUS, HAVE MERCY ON MY FAMILY!
JESUS, HEAL MY FAMILY! (3x)
And on the large beads:
IF JESUS MAKES MY FAMILY FREE, MY FAMILY WILL BE FREE INDEED.
If you are praying for a special person, for example (Mention the Name of the person),:
On the large beads of the Rosary say:
IF JESUS MAKES (NAME) FREE, (NAME) WILL BE FREE INDEED.
Then on the small beads:
JESUS, HAVE MERCY ON (NAME)!
JESUS, HEAL (NAME)!
JESUS, SAVE (NAME)!
JESUS, FREE (NAME)!
After praying the Rosary of Liberation completely, give thanks to Jesus for the blessings that he is pouring over you and those for whom you are interceding.
LET US PRAY: Lord Jesus, we praise and thank you, because you, through your mercy and pity. Created this powerful prayer to produce marvelous fruits of healing. Salvation and freedom in our lives, in our families, and in the lives of those for whom we pray. Thank you, Jesus, for you infinite love for us! And heavenly father, we love you, Father, with all the confidence of children. We draw nearer to you, at this moment, and pray that the Holy Spirit flows into our hearts. Father, so that the Holy Spirit can come into us, we want to empty ourselves. So, before the Cross of Jesus Christ, we renew our complete and unconditional deliverance to you. We ask that all our sins be forgiven and placed, now, on the wounded body of Jesus. We empty ourselves of all afflictions, worries, anguish, and all that have taken the joy from our lives. We deliver our heart to you, in the name of Jesus. Father, we also place on the crucified body of Jesus all our infirmities of body, soul and spirit; our worries about our families and work; our financial and marital problems; and all our anguish, uncertainties and affliction. Lord, we beseech the redeeming power of the Blood of Jesus. May this blood come over us now to cleanse and purify our hearts of all bad feelings. Jesus, have mercy on me! Jesus have mercy on us! Yes Father, we want to turn over to you all our desires, weaknesses, miseries, and sins; our hearts, body, soul, and spirit, everything that we are and have: our faith life, marriage, family, work, vocation, and ministry… fill us with your spirit Lord! Fill us with your love, with your power and with your life! Come, Holy Spirit of God! Come and bring to life the word of God in us, proclaimed through the Rosary of Liberation, and that this bring about in every heart the grace to heal, in the name of JESUS Christ our Lord. Amen.
Thursday, January 12 2023
Office: Psalter week 1
Mass and Preface of the day
Vestment: Green
Today’s Rosary: The Luminous Mystery
Death Anniversary: Bishop J. Daman of SHEDAM -12/01/15
PERSONAL DEVOTIONAL: Day 11
21 DAY NOVENA FOR PERSONAL, FAMILY AND RESTORATION OF OUR NATION IN THE NEW YEAR 2023 (2ND JANUARY – 22ND JANUARY 2023).
-FIRST READING-
“Exhort one another every day, as long as it is called today.”’
A reading from the Letter to the Hebrews (Hebrews 3:7- 14)
Brethren: As the Holy Spirit says, “Today, when you hear his voice, do not harden your hearts as in the rebellion, on the day of testing in the wilderness, where your fathers put me to the test and saw my works for forty years. Therefore I was provoked with that generation, and said, ‘They always go astray in their hearts; they have not known my ways.’ As I swore in my wrath, ‘They shall never enter my rest.”’ Take care, brethren, lest there be in any of you an evil, unbelieving heart, leading you to fall away from the living God. But exhort one another every day, as long as it is called “today,” that none of you may be hardened by the deceitfulness of sin. For we share in Christ, if only we hold our first confidence firm to the end.
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Ps 95:6-7abc.7d and 8-9. 10-11 (R. 8a)
R/. O that today you would listen to his voice! Harden not your hearts.
O come; let us bow and bend low.
Let us kneel before the God who made us,
for he is our God and we
the people who belong to his pasture,
the flock that is led by his hand. R/.
O that today you would listen to his voice!
“Harden not your hearts as at Meribah,
as on that day at Massah in the desert
when your forebears put me to the test;
when they tried me, though they saw my work.” R/.
R/. O that today you would listen to his voice! Harden not your hearts.
For forty years I wearied of that generation,
and I said, ‘Their hearts are astray;
this people does not know my ways.’
Then I took an oath in my anger,
‘Never shall they enter my rest. ”’ R/.
ALLELUIA (Matthew 4:23)
Alleluia. Jesus was preaching the Gospel of the kingdom and healing every infirmity among the people. Alleluia.
-GOSPEL-
“The leprosy left him, and he was wade clean.”
A reading from the holy Gospel according to Mark (Mark 1:40-45)
At that time: A leper came to Jesus begging him, and kneeling said to him, “If you will, you can make me clean.” Moved with pity, he stretched out his hand and touched him, and said to him, “I will; be clean.” And immediately the leprosy left him, and he was made clean. And he sternly charged him, and sent him away at once, and said to him, “See that you say nothing to any one; but go, show yourself to the priest, and offer for your cleansing what Moses commanded, for a proof to the people.” But he went out and began to talk freely about it, and to spread the news, so that Jesus could no longer openly enter a town, but was out in the country; and people came to him from every quarter.
The Gospel of the Lord.
TODAY’S REFLECTION
knowledge is acquired not only by personal experience but also by learning and hearing. The wise tortoise said that he would learn from what happened to the lion and avoid a repeat in his own life. The sad story of the evil that come upon Israel of old should teach us the danger of disobedience to God, so that we do not share the same destructive fate that they did. Without obedience to God none of us shall enter the eternal place of rest prepared for us. The man cured in the Gospel did not follow the instructions of Jesus, but prevented Jesus from freely going to others. We must not give way to our feelings and desire to go against God’s command.
PERSONAL DEVOTIONAL: Day 11
21 DAY NOVENA FOR PERSONAL, FAMILY AND RESTORATION OF OUR NATION IN THE NEW YEAR 2023 (2ND JANUARY – 22ND JANUARY 2023).
FASTING GUIDELINE: (i) Fast on the first day of the prayers, (ii) Every Fridays throughout the period and (iii) The last day of the prayers from 6am – 6pm (You can fast from 6am-12noon or 6am-6pm in the 21days of the Novena prayers if you’re disposed).
KINDLY NOTE: The sick, pregnant women, nursing mothers and the aged are please advised to exercise caution in their fast.
Hebrews 11 tells us that without faith it is impossible to please God. Consequently, without faith, it is improbable to receive from the Lord. Asking and believing are equal requirements for receiving from the Lord. Even seasoned believers go through times of unbelief. Thomas, one of the disciples who had spent 3 years under the tutelage of Christ himself doubted!
Your prayer life yields more and more results as your faith increases. Peter who denies Christ 3 times turned the world upside down when his faith was in the right place, and he was backed by the Holy Spirit. I pray that you would receive the Holy Spirit today if you haven’t already.
Jeremiah 32:27 says, “I am the Lord, the God of all mankind. Is anything too hard for me?
Let us start with a confession of faith. Say it with your own mouth and hear it. Faith comes by HEARING! Father, you are Lord, you alone are my God!
You are God over all mankind. You are God over everything in my sphere and beyond!
There is nothing too hard for you! No situation is too hard! My situation is not too hard for you!! I believe in your power! In Jesus’ name.
Lord may my heart be set on you. I repent of desires that are put ahead of your kingdom. Lord may my heart yearn for you. As a deer pants for the water, let my soul also yearn for you oh God! By this obedience, let all these things be added to me. May my heart’s desire be added to me.
Joel 2:12-13 says, “Even now,” declares the Lord, “return to me with all your heart, with fasting and weeping and mourning.” 'Rend your heart and not your garments. Return to the Lord your God, for he is gracious and compassionate, slow to anger and abounding in love, and he relents from sending calamity.
Lord, we repent of times where we have given material at the expense of our heart. It is not material that you desire, Lord. Father, we give our hearts.
Lord, God Almighty, I thank you for protecting me from every form of evil and bringing me the gift of your divine health. I thank you for breaking the chains of oppression and delivering me from every form of sin, sickness, disease and lie of the enemy. I thank you for the powerful name of Jesus to which every knee shall bow. Thank you for giving me your authority over all the power of the enemy. Nothing shall harm me. Thank you for your full armor, your name, your most precious Blood and your Holy Spirit.
No weapon formed against me shall prosper. Thank you heavenly father for all your protection and provisions, for yours is the kingdom, the power and the glory, now and forevermore. Amen
You are God over all mankind. You are God over everything in my sphere and beyond! There is nothing too hard for you! No situation is too hard! My situation is not too hard for you!! I believe in your power! In Jesus’ name.
Precious Lord, I surrender to your mercy; Lord I surrender to your loving kindness; merciful God, I surrender to your saving grace.
(Repeat as severally as you can)
“I surrender my life and my destiny to you oh Lord, wash it with the BLOOD OF JESUS CHRIST.”
In the power and authority that you have given me, I say to all addictions, perversions, chemical dependencies, hopelessness, worry, doubt, fear, despair and all symptoms of any such illness, that you must submit to the name of Jesus.
I cast down every argument and proud obstacle that exalts itself against the knowledge of God in the mighty name of our Lord Jesus Christ, Amen.
ROSARY OF LIBERATION (Personal Devotion)
THE Rosary OF LIBERATION begins with Apostles’ Creed and ends with the Hail Holy Queen.
In the place of the Our Father [on the large beads], we will pray the Words of God,
“if the Son makes you free, you will be free in deed” (John 8:36)
For example, if I am praying for myself, I would say (on the large beads of the Rosary):
IF JESUS MAKES ME FREE, I WILL BE FREE INDEED.
If I am praying for my family, I would say:
IF JESUS MAKES MY FAMILY FREE, MY FAMILY WILL BE FREE INDEED.
It is the word of God that is proclaimed.
In place of the Hail Mary’s (on the small beads), pray
JESUS, HAVE MERCY ON ME!
JESUS, HEAL ME! (3x)
If you are praying for your family, you should pray on each small bead:
JESUS, HAVE MERCY ON MY FAMILY!
JESUS, HEAL MY FAMILY! (3x)
And on the large beads:
IF JESUS MAKES MY FAMILY FREE, MY FAMILY WILL BE FREE INDEED.
If you are praying for a special person, for example (Mention the Name of the person),:
On the large beads of the Rosary say:
IF JESUS MAKES (NAME) FREE, (NAME) WILL BE FREE INDEED.
Then on the small beads:
JESUS, HAVE MERCY ON (NAME)!
JESUS, HEAL (NAME)!
JESUS, SAVE (NAME)!
JESUS, FREE (NAME)!
After praying the Rosary of Liberation completely, give thanks to Jesus for the blessings that he is pouring over you and those for whom you are interceding.
LET US PRAY: Lord Jesus, we praise and thank you, because you, through your mercy and pity. Created this powerful prayer to produce marvelous fruits of healing. Salvation and freedom in our lives, in our families, and in the lives of those for whom we pray. Thank you, Jesus, for you infinite love for us! And heavenly father, we love you, Father, with all the confidence of children. We draw nearer to you, at this moment, and pray that the Holy Spirit flows into our hearts. Father, so that the Holy Spirit can come into us, we want to empty ourselves. So, before the Cross of Jesus Christ, we renew our complete and unconditional deliverance to you. We ask that all our sins be forgiven and placed, now, on the wounded body of Jesus. We empty ourselves of all afflictions, worries, anguish, and all that have taken the joy from our lives. We deliver our heart to you, in the name of Jesus. Father, we also place on the crucified body of Jesus all our infirmities of body, soul and spirit; our worries about our families and work; our financial and marital problems; and all our anguish, uncertainties and affliction. Lord, we beseech the redeeming power of the Blood of Jesus. May this blood come over us now to cleanse and purify our hearts of all bad feelings. Jesus, have mercy on me! Jesus have mercy on us! Yes Father, we want to turn over to you all our desires, weaknesses, miseries, and sins; our hearts, body, soul, and spirit, everything that we are and have: our faith life, marriage, family, work, vocation, and ministry… fill us with your spirit Lord! Fill us with your love, with your power and with your life! Come, Holy Spirit of God! Come and bring to life the word of God in us, proclaimed through the Rosary of Liberation, and that this bring about in every heart the grace to heal, in the name of JESUS Christ our Lord. Amen.
Friday, January 13, 2023
ST HILARY, B D (Opt. Mem)
Office: Psalter Week 1
Mass of the day or of the Memorial
Vestment: Green/White
Today’s Rosary: Sorrowful Mystery
PERSONAL DEVOTIONAL: Day 12
21 DAY NOVENA FOR PERSONAL, FAMILY AND RESTORATION OF OUR NATION IN THE NEW YEAR 2023 (2ND JANUARY – 22ND JANUARY 2023).
-FIRST READING-
“Let us therefore strive to enter that rest. ”
A reading from the Letter to the Hebrews (Hebrews 4:1-5, 11)
Brethren: While the promise of entering his rest remains, let us fear lest any of you be judged to have failed to reach it. For good news came to us just as to them; but the message which they heard did not benefit them, because it did not meet with faith in the hearers. For we who have believed enter that rest, as he has said, “As I swore in my wrath, ‘They shall never enter my rest,”’ although his works were finished from the foundation of the world. For he has somewhere spoken of the seventh day in this way, “And God rested on the seventh day from all his works.” And again in this place he said, “They shall never enter my rest.” Let us therefore strive to enter that rest, that no one fall by the same sort of disobedience.
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Psalm 78:3 and 4bc.6c-7.8 (R. 7b)
R/. Never forget the deeds of the Lord!
The things we have heard and understood,
the things our fathers have told us,
but will tell them to the next generation:
the glories of the LORD and his might. R/.
They should arise and declare it to their children,
that they should set their hope in God,
and never forget God’s deeds,
but keep every one of his commands, R/.
R/. Never forget the deeds of the Lord!
So that they might not be like their fathers,
a defiant and rebellious generation,
a generation whose heart was fickle,
whose spirit was not faithful to God. R/.
ALLELUIA Luke 7:16
Alleluia. A great prophet has risen among us, and God has visited his people. Alleluia.
-GOSPEL-
“The Son of man has authority on earth to forgive sins.”
A reading from the holy Gospel according to Mark (Mark 2: 1- 12)
When Jesus returned to Capemaum after some days, it was reported that he was at home. And many were gathered together, so that there was no longer room for them, not even about the door; and he was preaching the word to them. And they came, bringing to him a paralytic carried by four men. And when they could not get near him because of the crowd, they removed the roof above him; and when they had made an opening, they let down the pallet on which the paralytic lay. And when Jesus saw their faith, he said to the paralytic, “Child, your sins are forgiven.” Now some of the scribes were sitting there, questioning in their hearts, “Why does this man speak like this? It is blasphemy! Who can forgive sins but God alone?” And immediately Jesus, perceiving in his spirit that they questioned like this within themselves, said to them, “Why do you question like this in your hearts? Which is easier, to say to the paralytic, ‘Your sins are forgiven,’ or to say, ‘Rise, take up your pallet and walk’? But that you may know that the Son of man has authority on earth to forgive sins”— he said to the paralytic— “I say to you, rise, take up your pallet and go home.” And he rose, and immediately took up the pallet and went out before them all; so that they were all amazed and glorified God, saying, “We never saw anything like this!”
The Gospel of the Lord.
TODAY’S REFLECTION
The four men in the gospel manifested their trust in Jesus and brought a paralytic to his side hoping for a cure. Jesus manifested his divinity as he forgave the sins of the paralyzed man and cured him of his ailment. The message of today’s readings is that we should be ready to face the consequences of the choices we make in life. Hence the need to trust in God rather than on our own strength and thus make the right choices so that the paralyzing situations of our life can be cured and our sins forgiven by God.
PERSONAL DEVOTIONAL: Day 12
21 DAY NOVENA FOR PERSONAL, FAMILY AND RESTORATION OF OUR NATION IN THE NEW YEAR 2023 (2ND JANUARY – 22ND JANUARY 2023).
FASTING GUIDELINE: (i) Fast on the first day of the prayers, (ii) Every Fridays throughout the period and (iii) The last day of the prayers from 6am – 6pm (You can fast from 6am-12noon or 6am-6pm in the 21days of the Novena prayers if you’re disposed).
KINDLY NOTE: The sick, pregnant women, nursing mothers and the aged are please advised to exercise caution in their fast.
- Pray seriously asking God for deeper revelation of anything wrong with the ground work of your life, your family and your activities for the next few days.
Hebrews 11 tells us that without faith it is impossible to please God. Consequently, without faith, it is improbable to receive from the Lord. Asking and believing are equal requirements for receiving from the Lord. Even seasoned believers go through times of unbelief. Thomas, one of the disciples who had spent 3 years under the tutelage of Christ himself doubted!
Your prayer life yields more and more results as your faith increases. Peter who denies Christ 3 times turned the world upside down when his faith was in the right place, and he was backed by the Holy Spirit. I pray that you would receive the Holy Spirit today if you haven’t already.
Jeremiah 32:27 says, “I am the Lord, the God of all mankind. Is anything too hard for me?
Let us start with a confession of faith. Say it with your own mouth and hear it. Faith comes by HEARING! Father, you are Lord, you alone are my God!
You are God over all mankind. You are God over everything in my sphere and beyond!
There is nothing too hard for you! No situation is too hard! My situation is not too hard for you!! I believe in your power! In Jesus’ name.
Lord may my heart be set on you. I repent of desires that are put ahead of your kingdom. Lord may my heart yearn for you. As a deer pants for the water, let my soul also yearn for you oh God! By this obedience, let all these things be added to me. May my heart’s desire be added to me.
Joel 2:12-13 says, “Even now,” declares the Lord, “return to me with all your heart, with fasting and weeping and mourning.” 'Rend your heart and not your garments. Return to the Lord your God, for he is gracious and compassionate, slow to anger and abounding in love, and he relents from sending calamity.
Lord, we repent of times where we have given material at the expense of our heart. It is not material that you desire, Lord. Father, we give our hearts.
Lord, God Almighty, I thank you for protecting me from every form of evil and bringing me the gift of your divine health. I thank you for breaking the chains of oppression and delivering me from every form of sin, sickness, disease and lie of the enemy. I thank you for the powerful name of Jesus to which every knee shall bow. Thank you for giving me your authority over all the power of the enemy. Nothing shall harm me. Thank you for your full armor, your name, your most precious Blood and your Holy Spirit.
No weapon formed against me shall prosper. Thank you heavenly father for all your protection and provisions, for yours is the kingdom, the power and the glory, now and forevermore. Amen
You are God over all mankind. You are God over everything in my sphere and beyond! There is nothing too hard for you! No situation is too hard! My situation is not too hard for you!! I believe in your power! In Jesus’ name.
Precious Lord, I surrender to your mercy; Lord I surrender to your loving kindness; merciful God, I surrender to your saving grace.
(Repeat as severally as you can)
“I surrender my life and my destiny to you oh Lord, wash it with the BLOOD OF JESUS CHRIST.”
In the power and authority that you have given me, I say to all addictions, perversions, chemical dependencies, hopelessness, worry, doubt, fear, despair and all symptoms of any such illness, that you must submit to the name of Jesus.
I cast down every argument and proud obstacle that exalts itself against the knowledge of God in the mighty name of our Lord Jesus Christ, Amen.
ROSARY OF LIBERATION (Personal Devotion)
THE Rosary OF LIBERATION begins with Apostles’ Creed and ends with the Hail Holy Queen.
In the place of the Our Father [on the large beads], we will pray the Words of God,
“if the Son makes you free, you will be free in deed” (John 8:36)
For example, if I am praying for myself, I would say (on the large beads of the Rosary):
IF JESUS MAKES ME FREE, I WILL BE FREE INDEED.
If I am praying for my family, I would say:
IF JESUS MAKES MY FAMILY FREE, MY FAMILY WILL BE FREE INDEED.
It is the word of God that is proclaimed.
In place of the Hail Mary’s (on the small beads), pray
JESUS, HAVE MERCY ON ME!
JESUS, HEAL ME! (3x)
If you are praying for your family, you should pray on each small bead:
JESUS, HAVE MERCY ON MY FAMILY!
JESUS, HEAL MY FAMILY! (3x)
And on the large beads:
IF JESUS MAKES MY FAMILY FREE, MY FAMILY WILL BE FREE INDEED.
If you are praying for a special person, for example (Mention the Name of the person),:
On the large beads of the Rosary say:
IF JESUS MAKES (NAME) FREE, (NAME) WILL BE FREE INDEED.
Then on the small beads:
JESUS, HAVE MERCY ON (NAME)!
JESUS, HEAL (NAME)!
JESUS, SAVE (NAME)!
JESUS, FREE (NAME)!
After praying the Rosary of Liberation completely, give thanks to Jesus for the blessings that he is pouring over you and those for whom you are interceding.
LET US PRAY: Lord Jesus, we praise and thank you, because you, through your mercy and pity. Created this powerful prayer to produce marvelous fruits of healing. Salvation and freedom in our lives, in our families, and in the lives of those for whom we pray. Thank you, Jesus, for you infinite love for us! And heavenly father, we love you, Father, with all the confidence of children. We draw nearer to you, at this moment, and pray that the Holy Spirit flows into our hearts. Father, so that the Holy Spirit can come into us, we want to empty ourselves. So, before the Cross of Jesus Christ, we renew our complete and unconditional deliverance to you. We ask that all our sins be forgiven and placed, now, on the wounded body of Jesus. We empty ourselves of all afflictions, worries, anguish, and all that have taken the joy from our lives. We deliver our heart to you, in the name of Jesus. Father, we also place on the crucified body of Jesus all our infirmities of body, soul and spirit; our worries about our families and work; our financial and marital problems; and all our anguish, uncertainties and affliction. Lord, we beseech the redeeming power of the Blood of Jesus. May this blood come over us now to cleanse and purify our hearts of all bad feelings. Jesus, have mercy on me! Jesus have mercy on us! Yes Father, we want to turn over to you all our desires, weaknesses, miseries, and sins; our hearts, body, soul, and spirit, everything that we are and have: our faith life, marriage, family, work, vocation, and ministry… fill us with your spirit Lord! Fill us with your love, with your power and with your life! Come, Holy Spirit of God! Come and bring to life the word of God in us, proclaimed through the Rosary of Liberation, and that this bring about in every heart the grace to heal, in the name of JESUS Christ our Lord. Amen.
Saturday, January 14 2023
B.V.M ON SATURDAY
Office: Psalter Week 1
Mass and Preface of the day or BVM
Vestment: Green
Today’s Rosary: The Joyful Mysteries
Vespers 1 of the Second Sunday of the Year
PERSONAL DEVOTIONAL: Day 13
21 DAY NOVENA FOR PERSONAL, FAMILY AND RESTORATION OF OUR NATION IN THE NEW YEAR 2023 (2ND JANUARY – 22ND JANUARY 2023).
-FIRST READING-
“Let us then with confidence draw near to the throne of grace.”
A reading from the Letter to the Hebrews (Hebrews 4: 12-16)
Brethren: The word of God is living and active, sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing to the division of soul and spirit, of joints and marrow, and discerning the thoughts and intentions of the heart. And before him no creature is hidden, but all are open and laid bare to the eyes of him with whom we have to do. Since then we have a great high priest who has passed through the heavens, Jesus, the Son of God, let us hold fast our confession. For we have not a high priest who is unable to sympathise with our weaknesses, but one who in every respect has been tempted as we are, yet without sinning. Let us then with confidence draw near to the throne of grace, that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need.
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Psalm 19:8.9:10.15 (R. John 6:63c)
R/. Your words, O Lord, are Spirit and life.
The law of the Lord is perfect;
it revives the soul.
The decrees of the Lord are steadfast;
they give wisdom to the simple. R/.
The precepts of the Lord are right;
they gladder the heart.
The command of the Lord is clear;
it gives light to the eyes. R/.
R/. Your words, O Lord, are Spirit and life.
The fear of the Lord is pure,
abiding forever.
The judgements of the Lord are true;
they are, all of them, just. R/.
May the spoken words of my mouth,
the thoughts of my heart,
win favour in your sight,
O Lord, my rock and my redeemer! R/.
ALLELUIA Luke 4:18
Alleluia. The Lord has sent me to preach good news to the poor, to proclaim release to the captives. Alleluia.
-GOSPEL-
“I came not to call the righteous, but sinners.”
A reading from the holy Gospel according to Mark (Mark 2:13- 17)
At that time: Jesus went out again beside the sea; and all the crowd gathered about him, and he taught them. And as he passed on, he saw Levi the son of Alphaeus sitting at the tax office, and he said to him, “Follow me.” And he rose and followed him. And as he sat at table in his house, many tax collectors and sinners were sitting with Jesus and his disciples; for there were many who followed him. And the scribes of the Pharisees, when they saw that he was eating with sinners and tax collectors, said to his disciples, “Why does he eat with the tax collectors and sinners?” And when Jesus heard it, he said to them, “Those who are well have no need of a physician, but those who are sick; I came not to call the righteous, but sinners.”
The Gospel of the Lord.
TODAY’S REFLECTION
Imagine yourself a sinner like Levi; Yet Jesus broke the protocols and gave himself up on the wood of the cross just to save you. It is an unmerited favour. In response to that, Levi leaves everything to follow Jesus (Mark 2:14). Moreover, he draws people like him also to follow Jesus (Mark 2:15). We are all beneficiaries of the unmerited favour. He took our nature and had a share in our weaknesses that he might help us out of them as a wounded healer (Heb. 4:12-16). St John tells us that, having been healed, we too must help others to become healed (1 John 3:16). We cannot do this well if we look down on others as the teachers of law and the Pharisees did (Mark 2:16).
PERSONAL DEVOTIONAL: Day 13
21 DAY NOVENA FOR PERSONAL, FAMILY AND RESTORATION OF OUR NATION IN THE NEW YEAR 2023 (2ND JANUARY – 22ND JANUARY 2023).
FASTING GUIDELINE: (i) Fast on the first day of the prayers, (ii) Every Fridays throughout the period and (iii) The last day of the prayers from 6am – 6pm (You can fast from 6am-12noon or 6am-6pm in the 21days of the Novena prayers if you’re disposed).
KINDLY NOTE: The sick, pregnant women, nursing mothers and the aged are please advised to exercise caution in their fast.
- Pray seriously asking God for deeper revelation of anything wrong with the ground work of your life, your family and your activities for the next few days.
Hebrews 11 tells us that without faith it is impossible to please God. Consequently, without faith, it is improbable to receive from the Lord. Asking and believing are equal requirements for receiving from the Lord. Even seasoned believers go through times of unbelief. Thomas, one of the disciples who had spent 3 years under the tutelage of Christ himself doubted!
Your prayer life yields more and more results as your faith increases. Peter who denies Christ 3 times turned the world upside down when his faith was in the right place, and he was backed by the Holy Spirit. I pray that you would receive the Holy Spirit today if you haven’t already.
Jeremiah 32:27 says, “I am the Lord, the God of all mankind. Is anything too hard for me?
Let us start with a confession of faith. Say it with your own mouth and hear it. Faith comes by HEARING! Father, you are Lord, you alone are my God!
You are God over all mankind. You are God over everything in my sphere and beyond!
There is nothing too hard for you! No situation is too hard! My situation is not too hard for you!! I believe in your power! In Jesus’ name.
Lord may my heart be set on you. I repent of desires that are put ahead of your kingdom. Lord may my heart yearn for you. As a deer pants for the water, let my soul also yearn for you oh God! By this obedience, let all these things be added to me. May my heart’s desire be added to me.
Joel 2:12-13 says, “Even now,” declares the Lord, “return to me with all your heart, with fasting and weeping and mourning.” 'Rend your heart and not your garments. Return to the Lord your God, for he is gracious and compassionate, slow to anger and abounding in love, and he relents from sending calamity.
Lord, we repent of times where we have given material at the expense of our heart. It is not material that you desire, Lord. Father, we give our hearts.
Lord, God Almighty, I thank you for protecting me from every form of evil and bringing me the gift of your divine health. I thank you for breaking the chains of oppression and delivering me from every form of sin, sickness, disease and lie of the enemy. I thank you for the powerful name of Jesus to which every knee shall bow. Thank you for giving me your authority over all the power of the enemy. Nothing shall harm me. Thank you for your full armor, your name, your most precious Blood and your Holy Spirit.
No weapon formed against me shall prosper. Thank you heavenly father for all your protection and provisions, for yours is the kingdom, the power and the glory, now and forevermore. Amen
You are God over all mankind. You are God over everything in my sphere and beyond! There is nothing too hard for you! No situation is too hard! My situation is not too hard for you!! I believe in your power! In Jesus’ name.
Precious Lord, I surrender to your mercy; Lord I surrender to your loving kindness; merciful God, I surrender to your saving grace.
(Repeat as severally as you can)
“I surrender my life and my destiny to you oh Lord, wash it with the BLOOD OF JESUS CHRIST.”
In the power and authority that you have given me, I say to all addictions, perversions, chemical dependencies, hopelessness, worry, doubt, fear, despair and all symptoms of any such illness, that you must submit to the name of Jesus.
I cast down every argument and proud obstacle that exalts itself against the knowledge of God in the mighty name of our Lord Jesus Christ, Amen.
ROSARY OF LIBERATION (Personal Devotion)
THE Rosary OF LIBERATION begins with Apostles’ Creed and ends with the Hail Holy Queen.
In the place of the Our Father [on the large beads], we will pray the Words of God,
“if the Son makes you free, you will be free in deed” (John 8:36)
For example, if I am praying for myself, I would say (on the large beads of the Rosary):
IF JESUS MAKES ME FREE, I WILL BE FREE INDEED.
If I am praying for my family, I would say:
IF JESUS MAKES MY FAMILY FREE, MY FAMILY WILL BE FREE INDEED.
It is the word of God that is proclaimed.
In place of the Hail Mary’s (on the small beads), pray
JESUS, HAVE MERCY ON ME!
JESUS, HEAL ME! (3x)
If you are praying for your family, you should pray on each small bead:
JESUS, HAVE MERCY ON MY FAMILY!
JESUS, HEAL MY FAMILY! (3x)
And on the large beads:
IF JESUS MAKES MY FAMILY FREE, MY FAMILY WILL BE FREE INDEED.
If you are praying for a special person, for example (Mention the Name of the person),:
On the large beads of the Rosary say:
IF JESUS MAKES (NAME) FREE, (NAME) WILL BE FREE INDEED.
Then on the small beads:
JESUS, HAVE MERCY ON (NAME)!
JESUS, HEAL (NAME)!
JESUS, SAVE (NAME)!
JESUS, FREE (NAME)!
After praying the Rosary of Liberation completely, give thanks to Jesus for the blessings that he is pouring over you and those for whom you are interceding.
LET US PRAY: Lord Jesus, we praise and thank you, because you, through your mercy and pity. Created this powerful prayer to produce marvelous fruits of healing. Salvation and freedom in our lives, in our families, and in the lives of those for whom we pray. Thank you, Jesus, for you infinite love for us! And heavenly father, we love you, Father, with all the confidence of children. We draw nearer to you, at this moment, and pray that the Holy Spirit flows into our hearts. Father, so that the Holy Spirit can come into us, we want to empty ourselves. So, before the Cross of Jesus Christ, we renew our complete and unconditional deliverance to you. We ask that all our sins be forgiven and placed, now, on the wounded body of Jesus. We empty ourselves of all afflictions, worries, anguish, and all that have taken the joy from our lives. We deliver our heart to you, in the name of Jesus. Father, we also place on the crucified body of Jesus all our infirmities of body, soul and spirit; our worries about our families and work; our financial and marital problems; and all our anguish, uncertainties and affliction. Lord, we beseech the redeeming power of the Blood of Jesus. May this blood come over us now to cleanse and purify our hearts of all bad feelings. Jesus, have mercy on me! Jesus have mercy on us! Yes Father, we want to turn over to you all our desires, weaknesses, miseries, and sins; our hearts, body, soul, and spirit, everything that we are and have: our faith life, marriage, family, work, vocation, and ministry… fill us with your spirit Lord! Fill us with your love, with your power and with your life! Come, Holy Spirit of God! Come and bring to life the word of God in us, proclaimed through the Rosary of Liberation, and that this bring about in every heart the grace to heal, in the name of JESUS Christ our Lord. Amen.
Sunday, January 15, 2023
SECOND SUNDAY OF ORDINARY TIME YEAR A
Office; Psalter week 2, Te Deum
Mass prop. Gloria. Creed. Preface of Sunday
Vestment: Green
Today’s Rosary: The Glorious Mystery
Vespers II of the 2nd Sunday of the year
PERSONAL DEVOTIONAL: Day 14
21 DAY NOVENA FOR PERSONAL, FAMILY AND RESTORATION OF OUR NATION IN THE NEW YEAR 2023 (2ND JANUARY - 23RD JANUARY 2023).
THEME OF THE SUNDAY: The Vocation of the Christian.
In the second reading Paul tells us that every Christian is “called” and has a vocation. The gospel tells us that our vocation continues the vocation of Jesus, whom the Baptist calls the “Lamb of God,” that is, the one who sacrifices himself so that others may have life. The first reading shows how in the Old Testament God chose for his mission of salvation a servant who sought neither glory nor power.
ENTRANCE ANTIPHON PS 66:4
All the earth shall bow down before you, O God, and shall sing to you, shall sing to your name, O Most High!
COLLECT
Almighty ever-living God, who govern all things, both in heaven and on earth, mercifully hear the pleading of your people and be- stow your peace on our times. Through our Lord . . .
-FIRST READING-
“I will give you as a light to the nations, that my salvation may reach to the end of the earth. ”
A reading from the Book of Isaiah (Isaiah 49:3,5-6)
The LORD said to me, “You are my servant, Israel, in whom I will be glorified.” And now the Lord says, who formed me from the womb to be his servant, to bring Jacob back to him, and that Israel might be gathered to him, for I am honoured in the eyes of the Lord, and my God has become my strength — he says: “It is too light a thing that you should be my servant to raise up the tribes of Jacob and to restore the preserved of Israel; I will give you as a light to the nations, that my salvation may reach to the end of the earth.”
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Ps 40:2 and 4ab.7-5a. 8b-9. 10 (R. 8a. 9a)
R/. See, I have come, Lord, to do your will.
I waited, I waited for the Lord,
and he stooped down to me;
he heard my cry.
He put a new song into my mouth,
praise of our God. R/.
You delight not in sacrifice and offerings,
but in an open ear.
You do not ask for holocaust and victim.
Then I said, “See, I have come.” R/.
R/. See, I have come, Lord, to do your will.
In the scroll of the book it stands written of me:
“I delight to do your will, O my God;
your instruction lies deep within me.” R/.
Your justice I have proclaimed
in the great assembly.
My lips I have not sealed;
you know it, O Lord. R/.
-SECOND READING-
“Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. ”
The beginning of the first Letter of Saint Paul to the Corinthians (1 Corinthians 1:1-3)
Paul, called by the will of Plod to be an apostle of Christ Jesus, and our brother Sosthenes, To the Church of God which is at Corinth, to those sanctified in Christ Jesus, called to be saints together with all those who in every place call on the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, both their Lord and ours: Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.
The word of the Lord.
ALLELUIA John 1:14a.12ac
Alleluia. The word became flesh and dwelt among us. To all who received him he gave power to become children of God. Alleluia.
-GOSPEL-
“Behold the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world. ”
A reading from the holy Gospel according to John (John 1:29-34)
At that time: John saw Jesus coming towards him, and said, “Behold, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world! This is he of whom I said, ‘After me comes a man who ranks before me, for he was before me.’ I myself did not know him; but for this I came baptising with water, that he might be revealed to Israel.” And John bore witness, “I saw the Spirit descend as a dove from heaven and remain on him. I myself did not know him; but he who sent me to baptise with water said to me, ‘He on whom you see the Spirit descend and remain, this is he who baptises with the Holy Spirit.’ And I have seen and have borne witness that this is the Son of God.”
The Gospel of the Lord
PRAYER OF THE FAITHFUL
Celebrant:
John the Baptist calls us to repentance and to prepare a way for the Lord. We bring our prayers and petition before God as we make ourselves ready to welcome Christ our Saviour.
FOR THE LEADERS OF THE CHURCH: that they may be untiring in calling all persons to turn away from sin and to embrace God in the sincerity for their hearts. Let us pray to the Lord
FOR THOSE IN CIVIL AUTHORITY: that they may promote the dignity of human persons and a society that is marked by the security of live and property. Let us pray to the Lord
FOR THOSE WHO ARE SUFFERING: that they may endure their adversity with the hope of finding the fullness of peace in the coming of our Saviour. Let us pray to the Lord
FOR OUR PARISH COMMUNITY: that, aware of our missionary identity, we may strive to follow Christ faithfully and to proclaim his Gospel everywhere. Let us pray to the Lord
FOR OTHER INTENTIONS: (the sick, Church projects or other activities).
For the dead, especially those of our parish community and family members, that they may find eternal rest with the Lord. Let us pray to the Lord
We pray in silence for our private intentions.
Celebrant:
God our loving Father, through your Son you open for us the door of eternal salvation. Help us to be truly repentant of our sins and, in your goodness, grant the prayers we have made to you. We ask through Christ our Lord.
R/. Amen
PERSONAL DEVOTIONAL: Day 14
21 DAY NOVENA FOR PERSONAL, FAMILY AND RESTORATION OF OUR NATION IN THE NEW YEAR 2023 (2ND JANUARY - 23RD JANUARY 2023).
FASTING GUIDELINE: (i) Fast on the first day of the prayers, (ii) Every Fridays throughout the period and (iii) The last day of the prayers from 6am – 6pm (You can fast from 6am-12noon or 6am-6pm in the 21days of the Novena prayers if you’re disposed).
KINDLY NOTE: The sick, pregnant women, nursing mothers and the aged are please advised to exercise caution in their fast.
Day 14 - 17
(Take this prayer point also for day 15, 16, and 17)
- Repent on behalf of our nation, because we have turned from making Scripture the basis of law, leaving behind wisdom and instead, looking to ourselves for truth. "We all, like sheep, have gone astray, each of us has turned to our own way; and the Lord has laid on him the iniquity of us all" (Isa. 53:6).
- Ask the Lord to thwart the efforts of those who would remove religious freedom from our nation. "It is for freedom that Christ has set us free. Stand firm, then, and do not let yourselves be burdened again by a yoke of slavery" (Gal. 5:1).
- PRAY FOR WISDOM FOR VOTERS AND A SAFE AND FAIR ELECTION. - "My son, do not let wisdom and understanding out of your sight, preserve sound judgment and discretion; they will be life for you, an ornament to grace your neck. Then you will go on your way in safety, and your foot will not stumble" (Prov. 3:21–23).
- ASK THE LORD TO REMOVE THOSE WHO MIGHT TRY TO UNJUSTLY AND ILLEGALLY CHANGE THE OUTCOME OF THE VOTING. "I will make justice the measuring line and righteousness the plumb line; hail will sweep away your refuge, the lie, and water will overflow your hiding place" (Isa. 28:17).
- PRAY FOR A HUGE TURNOUT OF VOTERS WHO USE WISDOM IN THEIR DECISIONS. "Get wisdom, get understanding; do not forget my words or turn away from them. Do not forsake wisdom, and she will protect you; love her, and she will watch over you" (Prov. 4:5–6).
- PRAY FOR THE SALVATION OF THOSE WHO ARE IN LEADERSHIP OF OUR NATION. Ask the Lord to remove all envy and selfish ambition. "For where you have envy and selfish ambition, there you find disorder and every evil practice" (James 3:16).
- Pray that each candidate will focus on the issues we face as a nation—and not on personal attacks on other candidates. "If you bite and devour each other, watch out or you will be destroyed by each other" (Gal. 5:15).
- Ask for great awareness and discernment as we pray over the election. "Be very careful, then, how you live-not as unwise but as wise, making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil. Therefore do not be foolish, but understand what the Lord's will is" (Eph. 5:15–17).
- In a country with over 200 million people, it is very easy to feel as though the prayer of one person is incapable of making a difference. That is false on many levels, particularly when we consider the power of prayer. As we continue to pray—even as one solitary person—we are teaming up with the Creator of the universe to change situations. The only way that positive change is not possible is when Christians refuse to pray!
Father in heaven, you have always provided for all your creatures so that all may live as you have willed. You have blessed our country Nigeria with human and natural resources of every Nigerian. We are deeply sorry for the wrong use of these your gifts and blessing through acts of injustice, bribery and corruption as a result of which many of our people are hungry, sick, ignorant and defenseless. We beg you; touch our lives and the lives of our leaders and people, so that we may all realize the evil of bribery
and corruption and work hard to eliminate it. Raise up for us God-fearing people and leaders who care for us and who will lead us in the path of peace, prosperity and progress. We ask this through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
God of mercy and compassion, our country Nigeria is in a time of great transition. With all of the injustice and fear in our country today, we ask you to inspire us and guide us as we participate in the upcoming elections.
Give us the grace to vote wisely without being enticed or seduced by money or false promises. We seek a government that upholds and protects human rights and justice for all its citizens, regardless of class, gender, or religion. Move and inspire us by your presence among us in the most vulnerable in our society. Thank you Lord for the right to vote, we pray. Amen.
I will live in Your strength and courage, for You are my God. I have faith in You and Your word because I know that Your word never fails. I thank You for the many promises You have spoken over my life, and I place my trust in You. I thank you for the powerful name of Jesus to which every knee shall bow.
Thank you for giving me your authority over all the power of the enemy. Nothing shall harm me.
Thank you for your full armor, your name, your most precious Blood and your Holy Spirit.
No weapon formed against me shall prosper.
Thank you heavenly Father for all your protection and provisions, may your name be praised, both now and forever more Amen.
- PRAYER FOR NIGERIA IN DISTRESS
All powerful and merciful Father, You are the God of justice, love and peace. You rule over the nations of the earth. Power and might are in your hands and no one can withstand you. We present our country Nigeria before you. We praise and thank you for you are the source of all we have and are. We are sorry for all the sins we have committed and for the good deeds we have failed to do. In your loving forgiveness, keep us safe from the punishment we deserve. Lord, we are weighed down not only by uncertainties, but also by moral, economic and political problems. Listen to the cries of your people who confidently turn to you, Our God of infinite goodness, our strength in adversity, our health in weakness, our comfort in sorrow; be merciful to us your people. Spare this nation Nigeria from chaos, anarchy and doom. Bless us with your kingdom of justice, love and peace. We ask this through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
Precious Lord, I surrender to your mercy; Lord I surrender to your loving kindness; merciful God, I surrender to your saving grace.
(Repeat as severally as you can)
“I surrender my life and my destiny to you oh Lord, wash it with the BLOOD OF JESUS CHRIST.”
In the power and authority that you have given me, I say to all addictions, perversions, chemical dependencies, hopelessness, worry, doubt, fear, despair and all symptoms of any such illness, that you must submit to the name of Jesus.
I cast down every argument and proud obstacle that exalts itself against the knowledge of God in the mighty name of our Lord Jesus Christ, Amen.
- In the name of the father, and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.
MONDAY JANUARY 16, 2023
Office: Psalter Week 2
Mass and Preface of the day
Vestment: Green
Today’s Rosary: Joyful Mystery
Death Anniversary: Bishop Alexius Makozi of Port-Harcourt -16/1/16
PERSONAL DEVOTIONAL: Day 15
21 DAY NOVENA FOR PERSONAL, FAMILY AND RESTORATION OF OUR NATION IN THE NEW YEAR 2023 (2ND JANUARY - 23RD JANUARY 2023).
-FIRST READING-
“Although he was a Son, he learned obedience through what he suffered,”
A reading from the Letter to the Hebrews (Hebrews 5 : 1- 10)
Every high priest chosen from among men is appointed to act on behalf of men in relation to God, to offer gifts and sacrifices for sins. He can deal gently with the ignorant and wayward, since he himself is beset with weakness. Because of this he is bound to offer sacrifice for his own sins as well as for those of the people. And one does not take the honour upon himself, but he is called by God, just as Aaron was. So also Christ did not exalt himself to “You are my Son, today I have begotten you”; as he says also in another place, “You are a priest for ever, according to the order of Melchizedek.” In the days of his flesh, Jesus offered up prayers‘ and supplications, with loud cries and tears, to him who was able to save him from death, and he was heard for his godly fear. Although he was a Son, he learned obedience through what he suffered; and being made perfect he became the source of eternal salvation to all who obey him, being designated by God a high priest according to the order of Melchizedek.
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Psalm 110: 1.2.3.4 (R. 4cd)
R/. You are a priest forever, in the line of Melchizedek.
The Lord’s revelation to my lord:
“Sit at my right hand,
until I make your foes your footstool.” R/.
The Lord will send from Sion
your scepter of power: rule in the midst of your foes. R/.
R/. You are a priest forever, in the line of Melchizedek.
With you is princely rule
on the day of your power.
In holy splendour, from the womb
before the dawn, I have begotten you. R/.
The Lord has sworn an oath he will not change:
“You are a priest forever,
in the line of Melchizedek.” R/.
ALLELUIA Hebrews 4: 12
Alleluia. The word of the Lord is living and active, discerning the thoughts and intentions of the heart. Alleluia.
-GOSPEL-
“The bridegroom is with them.”
A reading from the holy Gospel according to Mark (Mark 2:18-22)
At that time: John’s disciples and the Pharisees were fasting; and people came and said to him, “Why do John’s disciples and the disciples of the Pharisees fast, but your disciples do not fast?” And Jesus said to them, “Can the wedding guests fast while the bridegroom is with them? As long as they have the bridegroom with them, they cannot fast. The days will come, when the bridegroom is taken away from them, and then they will fast in that day. No one sews a piece of un-shrunk cloth on an old garment; if he does, the patch tears away from it, the new from the old, and a worse tear is made. And no one puts new wine into old wineskins; if he does, the wine will burst the skins, and the wine is lost, and so are the skins; but new wine is for fresh skins.”
The Gospel of the Lord.
TODAY’S REFLECTION
The first reading of today teaches us that obedience to God’s word brings about acceptance but disobedience brings about rejection. In the Gospel, Jesus teaches that the presence of the bridegroom (Jesus) is a cause for rejoicing and celebration. However, when the Lord has ascended and the Church, experiencing the descent of the Holy Spirit and carrying out its mandatory missionary work, will of course need to fast for the graces needed for the tasks ahead. We should therefore pray and fast as Christians to be obedient to God’s word always.
PERSONAL DEVOTIONAL: Day 15
21 DAY NOVENA FOR PERSONAL, FAMILY AND RESTORATION OF OUR NATION IN THE NEW YEAR 2023 (2ND JANUARY - 23RD JANUARY 2023).
FASTING GUIDELINE: (i) Fast on the first day of the prayers, (ii) Every Fridays throughout the period and (iii) The last day of the prayers from 6am – 6pm (You can fast from 6am-12noon or 6am-6pm in the 21days of the Novena prayers if you’re disposed).
KINDLY NOTE: The sick, pregnant women, nursing mothers and the aged are please advised to exercise caution in their fast.
Day 14 - 17
(Take this prayer point also for day 15, 16, and 17)
- Repent on behalf of our nation, because we have turned from making Scripture the basis of law, leaving behind wisdom and instead, looking to ourselves for truth. "We all, like sheep, have gone astray, each of us has turned to our own way; and the Lord has laid on him the iniquity of us all" (Isa. 53:6).
- Ask the Lord to thwart the efforts of those who would remove religious freedom from our nation. "It is for freedom that Christ has set us free. Stand firm, then, and do not let yourselves be burdened again by a yoke of slavery" (Gal. 5:1).
- PRAY FOR WISDOM FOR VOTERS AND A SAFE AND FAIR ELECTION. "My son, do not let wisdom and understanding out of your sight, preserve sound judgment and discretion; they will be life for you, an ornament to grace your neck. Then you will go on your way in safety, and your foot will not stumble" (Prov. 3:21–23).
- ASK THE LORD TO REMOVE THOSE WHO MIGHT TRY TO UNJUSTLY AND ILLEGALLY CHANGE THE OUTCOME OF THE VOTING. "I will make justice the measuring line and righteousness the plumb line; hail will sweep away your refuge, the lie, and water will overflow your hiding place" (Isa. 28:17).
- PRAY FOR A HUGE TURNOUT OF VOTERS WHO USE WISDOM IN THEIR DECISIONS. "Get wisdom, get understanding; do not forget my words or turn away from them. Do not forsake wisdom, and she will protect you; love her, and she will watch over you" (Prov. 4:5–6).
- PRAY FOR THE SALVATION OF THOSE WHO ARE IN LEADERSHIP OF OUR NATION. Ask the Lord to remove all envy and selfish ambition. "For where you have envy and selfish ambition, there you find disorder and every evil practice" (James 3:16).
- Pray that each candidate will focus on the issues we face as a nation—and not on personal attacks on other candidates. "If you bite and devour each other, watch out or you will be destroyed by each other" (Gal. 5:15).
- Ask for great awareness and discernment as we pray over the election. "Be very careful, then, how you live-not as unwise but as wise, making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil. Therefore do not be foolish, but understand what the Lord's will is" (Eph. 5:15–17).
- In a country with over 200 million people, it is very easy to feel as though the prayer of one person is incapable of making a difference. That is false on many levels, particularly when we consider the power of prayer. As we continue to pray—even as one solitary person—we are teaming up with the Creator of the universe to change situations. The only way that positive change is not possible is when Christians refuse to pray!
Father in heaven, you have always provided for all your creatures so that all may live as you have willed. You have blessed our country Nigeria with human and natural resources of every Nigerian. We are deeply sorry for the wrong use of these your gifts and blessing through acts of injustice, bribery and corruption as a result of which many of our people are hungry, sick, ignorant and defenseless. We beg you; touch our lives and the lives of our leaders and people, so that we may all realize the evil of bribery
and corruption and work hard to eliminate it. Raise up for us God-fearing people and leaders who care for us and who will lead us in the path of peace, prosperity and progress. We ask this through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
God of mercy and compassion, our country Nigeria is in a time of great transition. With all of the injustice and fear in our country today, we ask you to inspire us and guide us as we participate in the upcoming elections.
Give us the grace to vote wisely without being enticed or seduced by money or false promises. We seek a government that upholds and protects human rights and justice for all its citizens, regardless of class, gender, or religion. Move and inspire us by your presence among us in the most vulnerable in our society. Thank you Lord for the right to vote, we pray. Amen.
I will live in Your strength and courage, for You are my God. I have faith in You and Your word because I know that Your word never fails. I thank You for the many promises You have spoken over my life, and I place my trust in You. I thank you for the powerful name of Jesus to which every knee shall bow.
Thank you for giving me your authority over all the power of the enemy. Nothing shall harm me.
Thank you for your full armor, your name, your most precious Blood and your Holy Spirit.
No weapon formed against me shall prosper.
Thank you heavenly Father for all your protection and provisions, may your name be praised, both now and forever more Amen.
- PRAYER FOR NIGERIA IN DISTRESS
All powerful and merciful Father, You are the God of justice, love and peace. You rule over the nations of the earth. Power and might are in your hands and no one can withstand you. We present our country Nigeria before you. We praise and thank you for you are the source of all we have and are. We are sorry for all the sins we have committed and for the good deeds we have failed to do. In your loving forgiveness, keep us safe from the punishment we deserve. Lord, we are weighed down not only by uncertainties, but also by moral, economic and political problems. Listen to the cries of your people who confidently turn to you, Our God of infinite goodness, our strength in adversity, our health in weakness, our comfort in sorrow; be merciful to us your people. Spare this nation Nigeria from chaos, anarchy and doom. Bless us with your kingdom of justice, love and peace. We ask this through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
- You are God over all mankind. You are God over everything in my sphere and beyond! There is nothing too hard for you! No situation is too hard! My situation is not too hard for you!! I believe in your power! In Jesus’ name.
Precious Lord, I surrender to your mercy; Lord I surrender to your loving kindness; merciful God, I surrender to your saving grace.
(Repeat as severally as you can)
“I surrender my life and my destiny to you oh Lord, wash it with the BLOOD OF JESUS CHRIST.”
In the power and authority that you have given me, I say to all addictions, perversions, chemical dependencies, hopelessness, worry, doubt, fear, despair and all symptoms of any such illness, that you must submit to the name of Jesus.
I cast down every argument and proud obstacle that exalts itself against the knowledge of God in the mighty name of our Lord Jesus Christ, Amen.
TUESDAY JANUARY 17, 2023
ST ANTHONY, Abb. (MEMORIAL)
Office: Memorial, Psalter Week 2
Mass and preface of the Memorial
Vestment: White
Today’s Rosary: Sorrowful Mystery
UNITY WEEK: Tomorrow marks the beginning of unity week which is from the 18th – 25th of January Prayers for the Unity of Christians should be used within the liturgy.
PERSONAL DEVOTIONAL: Day 16
21 DAY NOVENA FOR PERSONAL, FAMILY AND RESTORATION OF OUR NATION IN THE NEW YEAR 2023 (2ND JANUARY - 23RD JANUARY 2023).
-FIRST READING-
We have this hope as a sure and steadfast anchor of the soul.
A reading from the Letter to the Hebrews (Hebrews 6:10-20)
Brethren: God is not so unjust as to overlook your work and the love which you showed for his sake in serving the saints, as you still do. And we desire each one of you to show the same earnestness in realising the full assurance of hope until the end, so that you may not be sluggish, but imitators of those who through faith and patience inherit the promises. For when God made a promise to Abraham, since he had no one greater by whom to swear, he swore by himself, saying, “Surely I will bless you and multiply you.” And thus Abraham, having patiently endured, obtained the promise. Men indeed swear by a greater than themselves, and in all their disputes an oath is final for confirmation. So when God desired to show more convincingly to the heirs of the promise the unchangeable character of his purpose, he interposed with an oath, so that through two unchangeable things, in which it is impossible that God should prove false, we who have fled for refuge might have strong encouragement to seize the hope set before us. We have this as a sure and steadfast anchor of the soul, a hope that enters into the inner shrine behind the curtain, where Jesus has gone as a forerunner on our behalf, having become a high priest for ever according to the order of Melchizedek.
The word of the Lord
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Psalm 111: 1bc-2.4-5.9 and 10c (R. 5b)
R/. The Lord keeps his covenant ever in mind.
Or: Alleluia.
I will praise the Lord with all my heart,
in the meeting of the just and the assembly.
Great are the works of the Lord,
to be pondered by all who delight in them. R/.
He has given us a memorial of his wonders.
The Lord is gracious and merciful.
He gives food to those who fear him;
keeps his covenant ever in mind. R/.
R/. The Lord keeps his covenant ever in mind.
Or: Alleluia.
He has sent redemption to his people,
and established his covenant forever.
Holy his name, to be feared.
His praise endures forever! R/.
ALLELUIA Ephesians 1:17-18
Alleluia. May the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ enlighten the eyes of our hearts that we might know what is the hope to which he has called us. Alleluia.
-GOSPEL-
“The sabbath was made for man, not man for the sabbath.”
A reading from the holy Gospel according to Mark (Mark 2:23-28)
It happened that one sabbath Jesus was going through the grain-fields; and as they made their way his disciples began to pluck heads of grain. And the Pharisees said to him, “Look, why are they doing what is not lawful on the sabbath?” And he said to them, “Have you never read what David did, when he was in need and was hungry, he and those who were with him: how he entered the house of God, when Abiathar was high priest, and ate the showbread, which it is not lawful for any but the priests to eat, and also gave it to those who were with him?” And he said to them, “The sabbath was made for man, not man for the sabbath; so the Son of man is lord even of the sabbath.”
The Gospel of the Lord
TODAY’S REFLECTION:
In God, nothing about us is forgotten, except our sins, through His mercy. This is why the Book of Hebrews tells us that our good efforts and deeds can never be forgotten. Our every good deed for God and His Church will be repaid. This is how God repaid Abraham, fulfilling the promises He had made him. It is not our past good deeds that gives our present blessings but the good deeds we have continued to do in perseverance. The good deeds of David that were sustained gave him and his followers the privilege to eat the meal of the High Priests. God can waive laws in order to see us saved. We in turn must not be inhumanly strict.
PERSONAL DEVOTIONAL: Day 16
21 DAY NOVENA FOR PERSONAL, FAMILY AND RESTORATION OF OUR NATION IN THE NEW YEAR 2023 (2ND JANUARY - 23RD JANUARY 2023).
FASTING GUIDELINE: (i) Fast on the first day of the prayers, (ii) Every Fridays throughout the period and (iii) The last day of the prayers from 6am – 6pm (You can fast from 6am-12noon or 6am-6pm in the 21days of the Novena prayers if you’re disposed).
KINDLY NOTE: The sick, pregnant women, nursing mothers and the aged are please advised to exercise caution in their fast.
Day 14 - 17
(Take this prayer point also for day 15, 16, and 17)
- Repent on behalf of our nation, because we have turned from making Scripture the basis of law, leaving behind wisdom and instead, looking to ourselves for truth. "We all, like sheep, have gone astray, each of us has turned to our own way; and the Lord has laid on him the iniquity of us all" (Isa. 53:6).
- Ask the Lord to thwart the efforts of those who would remove religious freedom from our nation. "It is for freedom that Christ has set us free. Stand firm, then, and do not let yourselves be burdened again by a yoke of slavery" (Gal. 5:1).
- PRAY FOR WISDOM FOR VOTERS AND A SAFE AND FAIR ELECTION. "My son, do not let wisdom and understanding out of your sight, preserve sound judgment and discretion; they will be life for you, an ornament to grace your neck. Then you will go on your way in safety, and your foot will not stumble" (Prov. 3:21–23).
- ASK THE LORD TO REMOVE THOSE WHO MIGHT TRY TO UNJUSTLY AND ILLEGALLY CHANGE THE OUTCOME OF THE VOTING. "I will make justice the measuring line and righteousness the plumb line; hail will sweep away your refuge, the lie, and water will overflow your hiding place" (Isa. 28:17).
- PRAY FOR A HUGE TURNOUT OF VOTERS WHO USE WISDOM IN THEIR DECISIONS. "Get wisdom, get understanding; do not forget my words or turn away from them. Do not forsake wisdom, and she will protect you; love her, and she will watch over you" (Prov. 4:5–6).
- PRAY FOR THE SALVATION OF THOSE WHO ARE IN LEADERSHIP OF OUR NATION. Ask the Lord to remove all envy and selfish ambition. "For where you have envy and selfish ambition, there you find disorder and every evil practice" (James 3:16).
- Pray that each candidate will focus on the issues we face as a nation—and not on personal attacks on other candidates. "If you bite and devour each other, watch out or you will be destroyed by each other" (Gal. 5:15).
- Ask for great awareness and discernment as we pray over the election. "Be very careful, then, how you live-not as unwise but as wise, making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil. Therefore do not be foolish, but understand what the Lord's will is" (Eph. 5:15–17).
- In a country with over 200 million people, it is very easy to feel as though the prayer of one person is incapable of making a difference. That is false on many levels, particularly when we consider the power of prayer. As we continue to pray—even as one solitary person—we are teaming up with the Creator of the universe to change situations. The only way that positive change is not possible is when Christians refuse to pray!
Father in heaven, you have always provided for all your creatures so that all may live as you have willed. You have blessed our country Nigeria with human and natural resources of every Nigerian. We are deeply sorry for the wrong use of these your gifts and blessing through acts of injustice, bribery and corruption as a result of which many of our people are hungry, sick, ignorant and defenseless. We beg you; touch our lives and the lives of our leaders and people, so that we may all realize the evil of bribery
and corruption and work hard to eliminate it. Raise up for us God-fearing people and leaders who care for us and who will lead us in the path of peace, prosperity and progress. We ask this through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
God of mercy and compassion, our country Nigeria is in a time of great transition. With all of the injustice and fear in our country today, we ask you to inspire us and guide us as we participate in the upcoming elections.
Give us the grace to vote wisely without being enticed or seduced by money or false promises. We seek a government that upholds and protects human rights and justice for all its citizens, regardless of class, gender, or religion. Move and inspire us by your presence among us in the most vulnerable in our society. Thank you Lord for the right to vote, we pray. Amen.
I will live in Your strength and courage, for You are my God. I have faith in You and Your word because I know that Your word never fails. I thank You for the many promises You have spoken over my life, and I place my trust in You. I thank you for the powerful name of Jesus to which every knee shall bow.
Thank you for giving me your authority over all the power of the enemy. Nothing shall harm me.
Thank you for your full armor, your name, your most precious Blood and your Holy Spirit.
No weapon formed against me shall prosper.
Thank you heavenly Father for all your protection and provisions, may your name be praised, both now and forever more Amen.
- PRAYER FOR NIGERIA IN DISTRESS
All powerful and merciful Father, You are the God of justice, love and peace. You rule over the nations of the earth. Power and might are in your hands and no one can withstand you. We present our country Nigeria before you. We praise and thank you for you are the source of all we have and are. We are sorry for all the sins we have committed and for the good deeds we have failed to do. In your loving forgiveness, keep us safe from the punishment we deserve. Lord, we are weighed down not only by uncertainties, but also by moral, economic and political problems. Listen to the cries of your people who confidently turn to you, Our God of infinite goodness, our strength in adversity, our health in weakness, our comfort in sorrow; be merciful to us your people. Spare this nation Nigeria from chaos, anarchy and doom. Bless us with your kingdom of justice, love and peace. We ask this through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
- You are God over all mankind. You are God over everything in my sphere and beyond! There is nothing too hard for you! No situation is too hard! My situation is not too hard for you!! I believe in your power! In Jesus’ name.
Precious Lord, I surrender to your mercy; Lord I surrender to your loving kindness; merciful God, I surrender to your saving grace.
(Repeat as severally as you can)
“I surrender my life and my destiny to you oh Lord, wash it with the BLOOD OF JESUS CHRIST.”
In the power and authority that you have given me, I say to all addictions, perversions, chemical dependencies, hopelessness, worry, doubt, fear, despair and all symptoms of any such illness, that you must submit to the name of Jesus.
I cast down every argument and proud obstacle that exalts itself against the knowledge of God in the mighty name of our Lord Jesus Christ, Amen.
Wednesday, January 18, 2023
Office: Psalter Week 2
Mass and Preface of the day
Vestment: Green
Today’s Rosary: The Glorious Mystery
PERSONAL DEVOTIONAL: Day 17
21 DAY NOVENA FOR PERSONAL, FAMILY AND RESTORATION OF OUR NATION IN THE NEW YEAR 2023 (2ND JANUARY - 23RD JANUARY 2023).
-FIRST READING-
“You are a priest for ever, according to the order of Melchizedek. ”
A reading from the Letter to the Hebrews (Hebrews 7: 1-3.15-17)
Brethren: Melchizedek, king of Salem, priest of the Most High God, met Abraham returning from the slaughter of the kings and blessed him; and to him Abraham apportioned a tenth part of everything. He is first, by translation of his name, king of righteousness, and then he is also king of Salem, that is, king of peace. He is without father or mother or genealogy, and has neither beginning of days nor end of life, but resembling the Son of God he continues a priest for ever. This becomes even more evident when another priest arises in the likeness of Melchizedek, who has become a priest, not according to a legal requirement concerning bodily descent but by the power of an indestructible life. For it is witnessed of him, “You are a priest for ever, according to the order of Melchizedek.”
The word of the Lord
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Psalm 110: 1.2.3.4 (R. 4cd)
R/. You are a priest forever, in the line of Melchizedek.
The Lord’s revelation to my lord:
“Sit at my right hand,
until I make your foes
your footstool.” R/.
The Lord will send from Sion
your sceptre of power:
rule in the midst of your foes. R/.
R/. You are a priest forever, in the line of Melchizedek.
With you is princely rule
on the day of your power.
In holy splendour, from the womb
before the dawn,
I have begotten you. R/.
The Lord has sworn an oath
he will not change:
“You are a priest forever,
in the line of Melchizedek.” R/.
ALLELUIA Matthew 4:23
Alleluia. Jesus was preaching the Gospel of the kingdom and healing every infirmity among the people. Alleluia.
-GOSPEL-
“Is it lawful on the sabbath to save life or to kill? ”
A reading from the holy Gospel according to Mark (Mark 3: 1-6)
At that time: Again Jesus entered the synagogue, and a man was there who had a withered hand. And they watched him, to see whether he would heal him on the sabbath, so that they might accuse him. And he said to the man who had the withered hand, “Come here.” And he said to them, “Is it lawful on the sabbath to do good or to do harm, to save life or to kill?” But they were silent. And he looked around at them with anger, grieved at their hardness of heart, and said to the man, “Stretch out your hand.” He stretched it out, and his hand was restored. The Pharisees went out, and immediately held counsel with the Herodians against him, how to destroy him.
The Gospel of the Lord.
TODAY’S REFLECTION
After the controversy stories in the Gospel of Mark, the Pharisees and Herodians unite against Jesus (cf. Mark 3:6), echoing the words of Psalm 2:2, “The king of the earth brace themselves and the rulers together take their stand against the Lord and His Anointed.” Jesus’ only crime is His righteous deeds. He warns us that we too shall face such oppression and persecution (Matthew 24:9; John 16:2). But He reassures us not to worry because He has overcome the world (John 16:33). And you must believe Jesus when He says so. See for yourself that even His simple question silence them all (Mark 3:4). So shall He silence all who rise against you.
PERSONAL DEVOTIONAL: Day 17
21 DAY NOVENA FOR PERSONAL, FAMILY AND RESTORATION OF OUR NATION IN THE NEW YEAR 2023 (2ND JANUARY - 23RD JANUARY 2023).
FASTING GUIDELINE: (i) Fast on the first day of the prayers, (ii) Every Fridays throughout the period and (iii) The last day of the prayers from 6am – 6pm (You can fast from 6am-12noon or 6am-6pm in the 21days of the Novena prayers if you’re disposed).
KINDLY NOTE: The sick, pregnant women, nursing mothers and the aged are please advised to exercise caution in their fast.
Day 14 - 17
(Take this prayer point also for day 15, 16, and 17)
- Repent on behalf of our nation, because we have turned from making Scripture the basis of law, leaving behind wisdom and instead, looking to ourselves for truth. "We all, like sheep, have gone astray, each of us has turned to our own way; and the Lord has laid on him the iniquity of us all" (Isa. 53:6).
- Ask the Lord to thwart the efforts of those who would remove religious freedom from our nation. "It is for freedom that Christ has set us free. Stand firm, then, and do not let yourselves be burdened again by a yoke of slavery" (Gal. 5:1).
- PRAY FOR WISDOM FOR VOTERS AND A SAFE AND FAIR ELECTION. "My son, do not let wisdom and understanding out of your sight, preserve sound judgment and discretion; they will be life for you, an ornament to grace your neck. Then you will go on your way in safety, and your foot will not stumble" (Prov. 3:21–23).
- ASK THE LORD TO REMOVE THOSE WHO MIGHT TRY TO UNJUSTLY AND ILLEGALLY CHANGE THE OUTCOME OF THE VOTING. "I will make justice the measuring line and righteousness the plumb line; hail will sweep away your refuge, the lie, and water will overflow your hiding place" (Isa. 28:17).
- PRAY FOR A HUGE TURNOUT OF VOTERS WHO USE WISDOM IN THEIR DECISIONS. "Get wisdom, get understanding; do not forget my words or turn away from them. Do not forsake wisdom, and she will protect you; love her, and she will watch over you" (Prov. 4:5–6).
- PRAY FOR THE SALVATION OF THOSE WHO ARE IN LEADERSHIP OF OUR NATION. Ask the Lord to remove all envy and selfish ambition. "For where you have envy and selfish ambition, there you find disorder and every evil practice" (James 3:16).
- Pray that each candidate will focus on the issues we face as a nation—and not on personal attacks on other candidates. "If you bite and devour each other, watch out or you will be destroyed by each other" (Gal. 5:15).
- Ask for great awareness and discernment as we pray over the election. "Be very careful, then, how you live-not as unwise but as wise, making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil. Therefore do not be foolish, but understand what the Lord's will is" (Eph. 5:15–17).
- In a country with over 200 million people, it is very easy to feel as though the prayer of one person is incapable of making a difference. That is false on many levels, particularly when we consider the power of prayer. As we continue to pray—even as one solitary person—we are teaming up with the Creator of the universe to change situations. The only way that positive change is not possible is when Christians refuse to pray!
Father in heaven, you have always provided for all your creatures so that all may live as you have willed. You have blessed our country Nigeria with human and natural resources of every Nigerian. We are deeply sorry for the wrong use of these your gifts and blessing through acts of injustice, bribery and corruption as a result of which many of our people are hungry, sick, ignorant and defenseless. We beg you; touch our lives and the lives of our leaders and people, so that we may all realize the evil of bribery
and corruption and work hard to eliminate it. Raise up for us God-fearing people and leaders who care for us and who will lead us in the path of peace, prosperity and progress. We ask this through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
God of mercy and compassion, our country Nigeria is in a time of great transition. With all of the injustice and fear in our country today, we ask you to inspire us and guide us as we participate in the upcoming elections.
Give us the grace to vote wisely without being enticed or seduced by money or false promises. We seek a government that upholds and protects human rights and justice for all its citizens, regardless of class, gender, or religion. Move and inspire us by your presence among us in the most vulnerable in our society. Thank you Lord for the right to vote, we pray. Amen.
I will live in Your strength and courage, for You are my God. I have faith in You and Your word because I know that Your word never fails. I thank You for the many promises You have spoken over my life, and I place my trust in You. I thank you for the powerful name of Jesus to which every knee shall bow.
Thank you for giving me your authority over all the power of the enemy. Nothing shall harm me.
Thank you for your full armor, your name, your most precious Blood and your Holy Spirit.
No weapon formed against me shall prosper.
Thank you heavenly Father for all your protection and provisions, may your name be praised, both now and forever more Amen.
- PRAYER FOR NIGERIA IN DISTRESS
All powerful and merciful Father, You are the God of justice, love and peace. You rule over the nations of the earth. Power and might are in your hands and no one can withstand you. We present our country Nigeria before you. We praise and thank you for you are the source of all we have and are. We are sorry for all the sins we have committed and for the good deeds we have failed to do. In your loving forgiveness, keep us safe from the punishment we deserve. Lord, we are weighed down not only by uncertainties, but also by moral, economic and political problems. Listen to the cries of your people who confidently turn to you, Our God of infinite goodness, our strength in adversity, our health in weakness, our comfort in sorrow; be merciful to us your people. Spare this nation Nigeria from chaos, anarchy and doom. Bless us with your kingdom of justice, love and peace. We ask this through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
- You are God over all mankind. You are God over everything in my sphere and beyond! There is nothing too hard for you! No situation is too hard! My situation is not too hard for you!! I believe in your power! In Jesus’ name.
Precious Lord, I surrender to your mercy; Lord I surrender to your loving kindness; merciful God, I surrender to your saving grace.
(Repeat as severally as you can)
“I surrender my life and my destiny to you oh Lord, wash it with the BLOOD OF JESUS CHRIST.”
In the power and authority that you have given me, I say to all addictions, perversions, chemical dependencies, hopelessness, worry, doubt, fear, despair and all symptoms of any such illness, that you must submit to the name of Jesus.
I cast down every argument and proud obstacle that exalts itself against the knowledge of God in the mighty name of our Lord Jesus Christ, Amen.
THURSDAY JANUARY 19, 2023
Office: Psalter Week 2
Mass and Preface of the day
Vestment: Green/White
Today’s Rosary: Luminous Mystery
PERSONAL DEVOTIONAL: Day 18
21 DAY NOVENA FOR PERSONAL, FAMILY AND RESTORATION OF OUR NATION IN THE NEW YEAR 2023 (2ND JANUARY - 23RD JANUARY 2023).
-FIRST READING-
He offered sacrifices when he offered up himself.
A reading from the Letter to the Hebrews (Hebrews 7:25 - 8:6)
Brethren: Jesus is able for all time to save those who draw near to God through him, since he always lives to make intercession for them. For it was fitting that we should have such a high priest, holy, blameless, unstained, separated from sinners, exalted above the heavens. He has no need, like those high priests, to offer sacrifices daily, first for his own sins and then for those of the people; he did this once for all when he offered up himself. Indeed, the law appoints men in their weakness as high priests, but the word of the oath, which came later than the law, appoints a Son who has been made perfect for ever. Now the point in what we are saying is this: we have such a high priest, one who is seated at the right hand of the throne of the Majesty in heaven, a minister in the sanctuary and the true tent which is set up not by man but by the Lord. For every high priest is appointed to offer gifts and sacrifices; hence it is necessary for this priest also to have something to offer. Now if he were on earth, he would not be a priest at all, since there are priests who offer gifts according to the law. They serve a copy and shadow of the heavenly sanctuary; for when Moses was about to erect the tent, he was instructed by God, saying, “See that you make everything according to the pattern which was shown you on the mountain.” But as it is, Christ has obtained a ministry which is as much more excellent than the old as the covenant he mediates is better, since it is enacted on better promises.
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIA PSALM Psalm 40:7-8a.8b-9.10.17 (R. see 8a.9a)
R/. See, I have come, Lord, to do your will.
You delight not in sacrifice and offerings,
but in an open ear.
You do not ask for holocaust and victim.
Then I said, “See, I have come.” R/.
In the scroll of the book it stands written of me:
“I delight to do your will, O my God;
your instruction lies deep within me.” R/.
R/. See, I have come, Lord, to do your will.
Your justice I have proclaimed
in the great assembly.
My lips I have not sealed;
you know it, O Lord. R/.
O let there be rejoicing and gladness
for all who seek you.
Let them ever say, “The Lord is great,”
who long for your salvation. R/.
ALLELUIA 2 Timothy 1: 10
Alleluia. Our Saviour Christ Jesus abolished death and brought life and immortality to light through the Gospel. Alleluia.
-GOSPEL-
“The unclean spirits cried out, ‘You are the Son of God. ’And he strictly ordered them not to make him known.”
A reading from the holy Gospel according to Mark (Mark 3:7-12)
At that time: Jesus withdrew with his disciples to the sea, and a great multitude from Galilee followed; also from Judea and Jerusalem and Idumea and from beyond the Jordan and from about Tyre and Sidon a great multitude, hearing all that he did, came to him. And he told his disciples to have a boat ready for him because of the crowd, lest they should crush him; for he had healed many, so that all who had diseases pressed upon him to touch him. And whenever the unclean spirits saw him, they fell down before him and cried out, “You are the Son of God.” And he strictly ordered them not to make him known.
The Gospel of the Lord
TODAY’S REFLECTION
Jesus leaves the synagogue to meet the common people who have need of him. The “great number of people” who followed him came from the pagan nations. Jesus offered himself to the chosen people, but it was the pagans who accepted him. Where do you belong? I will accept him too because he is all that I need. He heals my sickness and prevents the devil from taking hold of me, more importantly, he laid down his life that I might be saved.
PERSONAL DEVOTIONAL: Day 18
21 DAY NOVENA FOR PERSONAL, FAMILY AND RESTORATION OF OUR NATION IN THE NEW YEAR 2023 (2ND JANUARY - 23RD JANUARY 2023).
FASTING GUIDELINE: (i) Fast on the first day of the prayers, (ii) Every Fridays throughout the period and (iii) The last day of the prayers from 6am – 6pm (You can fast from 6am-12noon or 6am-6pm in the 21days of the Novena prayers if you’re disposed).
KINDLY NOTE: The sick, pregnant women, nursing mothers and the aged are please advised to exercise caution in their fast.
Spend this remaining 4 days in thanksgiving to the Almighty God for His mercies and love. Spend quality time in sincere worship, because God is a Spirit and those who worship HIM, must worship Him in Spirit and in Truth. May God in His infinite mercies shine His face on you, in the mighty name of Jesus Christ. Amen.
In the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit amen.
In Job 42:10 after Job had prayed for his friends, the Lord restored his fortunes and gave him twice as much as he had before.
Our prayer is that: whatever has been taken from you unjustly, may the Lord reward you with DOUBLE! Double your health, double your marriage, double your peace, double your finances, double in your business, double in your family and double graces in our country!! in the mighty name of Jesus!
Lord, thank you for drawing my heart back to you always.
Thank you for the sacrifice of Christ that washes me clean.
Thank you for righteousness!
I will not hold against myself what you have forgiven me for.
Make my crooked paths straight oh Lord! May I always be seen in your business.
Father, when you do something, we know beyond any doubt that it is complete. Heal me and I will be healed. Save me and I will be saved; thank you Father for answering my prayers, thank you Jesus for restoring me and family, thank you Holy Spirit for restoring our country Nigeria, may your name be praised and glorified for ever and ever amen.
Lord, God Almighty, I thank you for protecting me from every form of evil and bringing me the gift of your divine health.
I thank you for breaking the chains of oppression and delivering me from every form of sin, sickness, disease and lie of the enemy.
I thank you for the powerful name of Jesus to which every knee shall bow.
Thank you for giving me your authority over all the power of the enemy. Nothing shall harm me.
Thank you for your full armor, your name, your most precious Blood and your Holy Spirit.
No weapon formed against me shall prosper.
Thank you heavenly father for all your protection and provisions, for yours is the kingdom, the power and the glory, now and forevermore. Amen
**At the end of your 21 - Day Novena, we advise that you make a thanksgiving offering to God in your Church or to a Priest or to us via our account 5404019432 PROVIDUS BANK (NGN), A/C Name: OBTech Missal, to assist in the work of evangelization.
May God answer you and grant you your heart desires in the mighty name of Jesus Christ, Amen.
FRIDAY JANUARY 20, 2023
BLESSED CYPRIAN M. I. TANSI (FEAST)
Office: Proper, Te Deum
Mass of the Feast, Gloria
Vestment: White
Today’s Rosary: Sorrowful Mystery
Death Anniversary of Bishop John Moore SMA of Bauchi (20/01/2010)
PERSONAL DEVOTIONAL: Day 19
21 Day Novena for Personal and Family Restoration in the New Year 2023 (2nd January - 23rd January 2023)
BLESSED CYPRIAN M.I TANSI: Father Cyprian Michael Iwene Tansi was born in Nigeria in 1903. He was brought up by the missionaries and trained as a teacher and a catechist. Later he decided to join the seminary and in 1937 he was ordained a priest. In 1950 he left his Diocese in order to go to England where he joined the Cistercian Abbey of Mount St Bernard. He had been singled out as the ideal candidate to be trained in England and then return to establish a Trappist Monastery in the Diocese of Onitsha in Nigeria. Fr. Tansi lived the monastic life with great faith and humility. Absorbed in prayer, he was a living example of patience and charity. Early in 1964 he was diagnosed with aortic aneurysm and died two weeks later on 20 January, 1964.
-FIRST READING-
Be of the same mind, having the same love, being in full accord and of one mind.
A reading from the Letter of Saint Paul to the Philippians (Philippians 2:1-11)
Brethren: if there is any encouragement in Christ, any incentive of love, any participation in the Spirit, any affections and sympathy, complete my joy by being of the same mind, having the same love, being in full accord and of one mind. Do nothing from selfishness or conceit, but in humility count others better than yourselves. Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others. Have this mind among yourselves, which was in Christ Jesus, who, though he was in the form of God, did not count equality with God a thing to be grasped, but emptied himself, taking the form of a servant, being born in the likeness of men. And being found in human form he humbled himself and became obedient unto death, even death on a cross. Therefore God has highly exalted him and bestowed on him the name which is above every name, that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Isaiah 12:2-3.4bcde.5-6 (R. 1de)
R/. Your anger turned away and you comforted me.
“Behold, God is my salvation;
I will trust, and will not be afraid;
for the Lord GOD is my strength and my song,
and he has become my salvation.”
With joy you will draw water from the wells of salvation. R/.
“Give thanks to the Lord, call upon his name;
make known his deeds among the nations,
proclaim that his name is exalted.” R/.
“Sing praises to the Lord,
for he has done gloriously;
let this be known in all the earth.
Shout, and sing for joy, O inhabitant of Zion,
for great in your midst is the Holy One of Israel.” R/.
ALLELUIA 2 Corinthians 5: 19
Alleluia. God was in Christ, reconciling the world to himself, and entrusting to us the message of reconciliation. Alleluia
-GOSPEL-
He sells all that he has and buys that field.
A reading from the holy Gospel according to Matthew (Matthew 13:44-46)
At that time: Jesus said to the crowds, “The kingdom of heaven is like treasure hidden in a field, which a man found and covered up; then in his joy he goes and sells all that he has and buys that field.” “Again, the kingdom of heaven is like a merchant in search of fine pearls, who, on finding one pearl of great value, went and sold all that he had and bought it.”
The Gospel of the Lord.
TODAY’S REFLECTION
In the First Reading of today, we are taught that humility exalts a person while pride humiliates a person. Hence, God exalted Jesus above all else because of his humility and obedience. In the Gospel, Jesus teaches us that the ultimate goal is the kingdom of heaven. Therefore, everything we do should be geared towards attaining this heavenly kingdom. Today, as we celebrate the feast of Blessed Cyprian Michael Iwene Tansi who humbles himself and sought God through his austere life and mortification to attain the heavenly kingdom and the crown of glory, may his intercession make us humble Christians who sincerely and genuinely desire the kingdom of God.
PERSONAL DEVOTIONAL: Day 19
21 DAY NOVENA FOR PERSONAL, FAMILY AND RESTORATION OF OUR NATION IN THE NEW YEAR 2023 (2ND JANUARY - 23RD JANUARY 2023).
FASTING GUIDELINE: (i) Fast on the first day of the prayers, (ii) Every Fridays throughout the period and (iii) The last day of the prayers from 6am – 6pm (You can fast from 6am-12noon or 6am-6pm in the 21days of the Novena prayers if you’re disposed).
KINDLY NOTE: The sick, pregnant women, nursing mothers and the aged are please advised to exercise caution in their fast.
Spend this remaining 4 days in thanksgiving to the Almighty God for His mercies and love. Spend quality time in sincere worship, because God is a Spirit and those who worship HIM, must worship Him in Spirit and in Truth. May God in His infinite mercies shine His face on you, in the mighty name of Jesus Christ. Amen.
In Job 42:10 after Job had prayed for his friends, the Lord restored his fortunes and gave him twice as much as he had before.
Our prayer is that: whatever has been taken from you unjustly, may the Lord reward you with DOUBLE! Double your health, double your marriage, double your peace, double your finances, double in your business, double in your family and double grace in our country!! in the mighty name of Jesus!
Lord, thank you for drawing my heart back to you always.
Thank you for the sacrifice of Christ that washes me clean.
Thank you for righteousness!
I will not hold against myself what you have forgiven me for.
Make my crooked paths straight oh Lord! May I always be seen in your business.
Father, when you do something, we know beyond any doubt that it is complete. Heal me and I will be healed. Save me and I will be saved; thank you Father for answering my prayers, thank you Jesus for restoring me and family, thank you Holy Spirit for restoring our country Nigeria, may your name be praised and glorified for ever and ever amen.
Lord, God Almighty, I thank you for protecting me from every form of evil and bringing me the gift of your divine health.
I thank you for breaking the chains of oppression and delivering me from every form of sin, sickness, disease and lie of the enemy.
I thank you for the powerful name of Jesus to which every knee shall bow.
Thank you for giving me your authority over all the power of the enemy. Nothing shall harm me.
Thank you for your full armor, your name, your most precious Blood and your Holy Spirit.
No weapon formed against me shall prosper.
Thank you heavenly father for all your protection and provisions, for yours is the kingdom, the power and the glory, now and forevermore. Amen
**At the end of your 21 - Day Novena, we advise that you make a thanksgiving offering to God in your Church or to a Priest or to us via our account 5404019432 PROVIDUS BANK (NGN), A/C Name: OBTech Missal, to assist in evangelization.
May God answer you and grant you your heart desires in the mighty name of Jesus Christ, Amen.
Saturday January 21, 2023
ST AGNES OF ROME V. M. Memorial
Office: Psalter Week 2
Mass and Preface of the Memorial
Vestment: Red
Today’s Rosary: Joyful Mystery
Vespers I of the 3rd Sunday of the Year
-FIRST READING-
“He entered once for all into the Holy Place, taking his own blood. ”
A reading from the Letter to the Hebrews (Hebrews 9:2-3.11- 14)
Brethren: A tent was prepared, the outer one, in which were the lampstand and the table and the bread of offering; it is called the Holy Place. Behind the second curtain stood a tent called the Holy of Holies. But when Christ appeared as a high priest of the good things that have come, then through the greater and more perfect tent (not made with hands, that is, not of this creation) he entered once for all into the Holy place, taking not the blood of goats and calves but his own blood, thus securing an eternal redemption. For if the sprinkling of defiled persons with the blood of goats and bulls and with the ashes of a heifer sanctifies for the purification of the flesh, how much more shall the blood of Christ, who through the eternal Spirit offered himself with- out blemish to God, purify your conscience from dead works to serve the living God.
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Psalm 47 :2-3.6-7.5-9 (R. 6)
R/. God goes up with shouts of joy,
The Lord goes up with trumpet blast.
All peoples, clap your hands.
Cry to God with shouts of joy!
For the Lord, the Most High, is awesome,
the great king over all the earth. R/.
God goes up with shouts of joy.
The Lord goes up with trumpet blast.
Sing praise for God; sing praise!
Sing praise to our king; sing praise! R/.
God is king of all the earth,
Sing praise with all your skill.
God reigns over the nations
God sits upon his holy throne. R/.
ALLELUIA Acts 16:14b
Alleluia Open our hearts, O Lord, that we may give heed to the words of your Son. Alleluia.
-GOSPEL-
“They said, ’He is beside himself. ”’
A reading from the holy Gospel according to Mark (Mark 3:20-21)
In that time: Jesus went home with his disciples; and the crowd came together again, so that they could not even eat. And when his friends heard it, they went out to seize him, for they said, “He is beside himself.”
The Gospel of the Lord.
TODAY’S REFLECTION
We are reminded that Jesus is the One who represents the Holy of Holies. This is brought out by the tearing of the curtain covering the Holy Holies in the sanctuary at shedding of Christ’s blood on the cross. The blood of Jesus is the only acceptable sacrifice besides animals’ blood, which cleanses on the external. Jesus offers His blood in our Eucharistic sacrifice, cleansing the inner spirit of man. He continues to be for us that Minister who is ever working in our lives, having no time for Himself. We are to make ourselves available for Jesus to purify us truly and completely, so as to lead us into the highest sanctuary of God.
PERSONAL DEVOTIONAL: Day 20
21 DAY NOVENA FOR PERSONAL, FAMILY AND RESTORATION OF OUR NATION IN THE NEW YEAR 2023 (2ND JANUARY - 23RD JANUARY 2023).
FASTING GUIDELINE: (i) Fast on the first day of the prayers, (ii) Every Fridays throughout the period and (iii) The last day of the prayers from 6am – 6pm (You can fast from 6am-12noon or 6am-6pm in the 21days of the Novena prayers if you’re disposed).
KINDLY NOTE: The sick, pregnant women, nursing mothers and the aged are please advised to exercise caution in their fast.
Spend this remaining days in thanksgiving to the Almighty God for His mercies and love. Spend quality time in sincere worship, because God is a Spirit and those who worship HIM, must worship Him in Spirit and in Truth. May God in His infinite mercies shine His face on you, in the mighty name of Jesus Christ. Amen.
In the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit amen.
In Job 42:10 after Job had prayed for his friends, the Lord restored his fortunes and gave him twice as much as he had before.
Our prayer is that: whatever has been taken from you unjustly, may the Lord reward you with DOUBLE! Double your health, double your marriage, double your peace, double your finances, double in your business, double in your family and double grace in our country!! in the mighty name of Jesus!
Lord, thank you for drawing my heart back to you always.
Thank you for the sacrifice of Christ that washes me clean.
Thank you for righteousness!
I will not hold against myself what you have forgiven me for.
Make my crooked paths straight oh Lord! May I always be seen in your business.
Father, when you do something, we know beyond any doubt that it is complete. Heal me and I will be healed. Save me and I will be saved; thank you Father for answering my prayers, thank you Jesus for restoring me and family, thank you Holy Spirit for restoring our country Nigeria, may your name be praised and glorified for ever and ever amen.
Lord, God Almighty, I thank you for protecting me from every form of evil and bringing me the gift of your divine health.
I thank you for breaking the chains of oppression and delivering me from every form of sin, sickness, disease and lie of the enemy.
I thank you for the powerful name of Jesus to which every knee shall bow.
Thank you for giving me your authority over all the power of the enemy. Nothing shall harm me.
Thank you for your full armor, your name, your most precious Blood and your Holy Spirit.
No weapon formed against me shall prosper.
Thank you heavenly father for all your protection and provisions, for yours is the kingdom, the power and the glory, now and forevermore. Amen
**At the end of your 21 - Day Novena, we advise that you make a thanksgiving offering to God in your Church or to a Priest or to us via our account 5404019432 PROVIDUS BANK (NGN), A/C Name: OBTech Missal, to assist in evangelization.
May God answer you and grant you your heart desires in the mighty name of Jesus Christ, Amen.
Sunday, January 22, 2023
THIRD SUNDAY OF THE YEAR (A)
(Sunday of the Word of God)
Office – Psalter Week 3, Te Deum
V¹ -, R¹ -, V¹ -, V² -, V³ -, R¹ -, R² -, R³ -
Mass prop. Gloria. Creed. Preface of Sunday
Vestment: Green
Today’s Rosary: The Glorious Mystery
Vespers II of the 3rd Sunday of the Year
PERSONAL DEVOTIONAL: Day 21
THE FINAL DAY OF THE PROGRAM
21 Day Novena for Personal and Family Restoration in the New Year 2023 (2nd January - 23rd January 2023)
THEME OF THE SUNDAY: The Light of Christ Begins to Shine.
Jesus started his public ministry in Galilee, considered a land of pagans, a people held in contempt by other Jews. At the end of his gospel Matthew says that it was from a mountain in Galilee that Jesus sent his disciples. The light that shone out from Galilee is destined to illumine people all over the world. The first reading stresses this universality of the Church and shows how this had been foretold by the prophet. The second reading provides an example of a community in which there are divisions because people refuse to accept each other’s ideas.
-FIRST READING-
In Galilee of the nations, the people have seen a great light.
A reading from the Book of Isaiah (Isaiah 9:1-4)
In the former time he brought into contempt the land of Zebulun and the land of Naphtali, but in the latter time he will make glorious the way of the sea, the land beyond the Jordan, Galilee of the nations. The people who walked in darkness have seen a great light; those who dwelt in a land of deep darkness, on them has light shined. You have multiplied the nation, you have increased its joy; they rejoice before you as with joy at the harvest, as men rejoice when they divide the spoil. For the yoke of his burden, and the staff for his shoulder, the rod of his oppressor, you have broken as on the day of Midian.
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORAL PSALM Psalm 27: 1.4. I 3-14 (R. 1a)
R/. The Lord is my light and my salvation.
The Lord is my light and my salvation;
whom shall I fear?
The lord is the stronghold of my life;
whom should I dread? R/.
There is one thing I ask of the Lord,
only this do I seek:
to live in the house of the Lord
all the days of my life,
to gaze on the beauty of the Lord,
to inquire at his temple. R/.
R/. The Lord is my light and my salvation.
I believe I shall see the Lord’s goodness
in the land of the living.
Wait for the Lord; be strong;
be stouthearted, and wait for the Lord! R/.
-SECOND READING-
“I appeal to you, brethren, that there be no dissensions among you.”
A reading from the first Letter of Saint Paul to the Corinthians (1 Corinthians 1:10- 13. 17)
I appeal to you, brethren, by the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that all of you agree and that there be no dissensions among you, but that you be united in the same mind and the same judgement. For it has been reported to me by Chloe’s people that there is quarrelling among you, my brethren. What I mean is that each one of you says, “I belong to Paul,” or “I belong to Apollos,” or “I belong to Cephas,” or “I belong to Christ.” Is Christ divided? Was Paul crucified for you? Or were you baptised in the name of Paul? For Christ did not send me to baptise but to preach the Gospel, and not with eloquent wisdom, lest the cross of Christ be emptied of its power.
The word of the Lord.
ALLELUIA Matthew 4:23
Alleluia. Jesus was preaching the Gospel of the kingdom and healing every infirmity among the people. Alleluia.
-GOSPEL-
“He went to Capernaum, that what was spoken by the prophet Isaiah might be fulfilled.”
A reading from the holy Gospel according to Matthew (Matthew 4: 12-23)
* When Jesus heard that John had been arrested, he withdrew into Galilee; and leaving Nazareth he went and dwelt in Capemaum by the sea, in the territory of Zebulun and Naphtali, that what was spoken by the prophet Isaiah might be fulfilled: “The land of Zebulun and the land of Naphtali, towards the sea, across the Jordan, Galilee of the Gentiles — the people who sat in darkness have seen a great light, and for those who sat in the region and shadow of death light has dawned.” From that time Jesus began to preach, saying, “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.” As he walked by the Sea of Galilee, he saw two brothers, Simon who is called Peter and Andrew his brother, casting a net into the sea; for they were fishermen. And he said to them, “Follow me, and I will make you fishers of men.” Immediately they left their nets and followed him. And going on from there he saw two other brothers, James the son of Zebedee and John his brother, in the boat with Zebedee their father, mending their nets, and he called them. Immediately they left the boat and their father, and followed him. And he went about all Galilee, teaching in their synagogues and preaching the Gospel of the kingdom and healing every dis- ease and every infirmity among the people.
* The Gospel of the Lord.*
Shorter form: Matthew 4:12- 17. Read between *
PRAYER OF THE FAITHFUL
Celebrant:
God our Father calls us to rejoice as we look forward to the coming of his son. With this in mind, let us approach him with confidence that he will hear and answer our petitions.
FOR THE LEADERS OF THE CHURCH: that, strengthened by the power of the Holy Spirit, they may remain ever committed to the proclamation of the Gospel. Let us pray to the Lord.
FOR THOSE IN PUBLIC AUTHORITY: that they may put in place effective means of caring for and re-instating members of our communities who are victims of human trafficking and enforced prostitution. Let us pray to the Lord.
FOR ALL TRAVELERS: that they may be protected from all dangers and be led safely to their various destinations during these coming festivities. Let us pray to the Lord.
FOR OUR COMMUNITY: that we may be instruments of God’s love for the blind, the lame, the leprous, the deaf, and all other persons who are physically or mentally impaired. Let us pray to the Lord.
FOR OTHER INTENTIONS: (the sick, church projects or other activities).
For the dead, especially those of our parish community and family members: that they may find eternal rest with the Lord. Let us pray to the Lord.
We pray in silence for our private intentions.
Celebrant:
Father, as we joyfully wait for the coming of your Son, our Lord Jesus Christ, we present our intentions to you, confident in your infinite love and mercy. Through Christ our Lord.
R/. Amen.
PERSONAL DEVOTIONAL: Day 21
Kindly endeavor to fast today being the final day of the program.
21 Day Novena for Personal and Family Restoration in the New Year 2023 (2nd January - 23rd January 2023)
FASTING GUIDELINE: Fast on the first day of the prayers, every Fridays throughout the period and the last day of the prayers from 6am – 6pm (but if you have the grace to fast 6am-6pm in the 21days of the prayers you’re free to do so. The sick, pregnant women, nursing mothers are please advised to exercise caution in the fast.
Lord, God Almighty, I thank you for protecting me from every form of evil and bringing me the gift of your divine health.
I thank you for breaking the chains of oppression and delivering me from every form of sin, sickness, disease and lie of the enemy.
I thank you for the powerful name of Jesus to which every knee shall bow.
Thank you for giving me your authority over all the power of the enemy. Nothing shall harm me.
Thank you for your full armor, your name, your most precious Blood and your Holy Spirit.
No weapon formed against me shall prosper.
Thank you heavenly father for all your protection and provisions, for yours is the kingdom, the power and the glory, now and forevermore. Amen
**At the end of your 21 - Day Novena, we advise that you make a thanksgiving offering to God in your Church or to a Priest or to us via our account 5404019432 PROVIDUS BANK (NGN), A/C Name: OBTech Missal, to assist in evangelization.
May God answer and grant you your heart desires this year and beyond in the mighty name of Jesus Christ, Amen.
Monday, January 23, 2023
Office: Psalter week 3
Mass and Preface of the Day
Vestment: Green
Today’s Rosary: The Joyful Mystery
LAGOS: Tomorrow is the 25th Anniversary of the episcopal ordination of Most Revd Alfred Adewale Martins, 24th Jan. 1998
GBOKO: Tomorrow is the 14th Anniversary of the episcopal ordination of Most Revd William Avenya, 24th Jan. 2009.
-FIRST READING-
He has been offered once to bear the sins of many, he will appear a second time to those who are eagerly waiting for him.
A reading from the Letter to the Hebrews (Hebrews 9: 15.24-28)
Brethren: Christ is the mediator of a new covenant, so that those who are called may receive the promised eternal inheritance, since a death has occurred which redeems them from the transgressions under the first covenant. For Christ has entered, not into a sanctuary made with hands, a copy of the true one, but into heaven itself, now to appear in the presence of God on our behalf. Nor was it to offer himself repeatedly, as the high priest enters the Holy Place yearly with blood not his own; for then he would have had to suffer repeatedly since the foundation of the world. But as it is, he has appeared once for all at the end of the age to put away sin by the sacrifice of himself. And just as it is appointed for men to die once, and after that comes judgement, so Christ, having been offered once to bear the sins of many, will appear a second time, not to deal with sin but to save those who are eagerly waiting for him.
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Psalm 98: 1 .2-3ab. 3cd-4.5-6
R/. O sing a new song to the Lord, for he has worked wonders.
O sing a new song to the Lord,
for he has worked wonders.
His right hand and his holy arm
have brought salvation. R/.
The Lord has made known his salvation,
has shown his deliverance to the nations.
He has remembered his merciful love
and his truth for the house of Israel. R/.
R/. O sing a new song to the Lord, for he has worked wonders.
All the ends of the earth
have seen the salvation of our God.
Shout to the Lord, all the earth;
break forth into joyous song,
and sing out your praise. R/.
Sing psalms to the LORD with the harp,
with the harp and the sound of song.
With trumpets and the sound of the horn,
raise a shout before the King, the Lord. R/.
ALLELUIA 2 Timothy 1: 10
Alleluia. Our Saviour Christ Jesus abolished death and brought life and immortality to light through the Gospel. Alleluia.
-GOSPEL-
“Satan is coming to an end.”
A reading from the holy Gospel according to Mark (Mark 3:22-30)
At that time: The scribes who came down from Jerusalem said of Jesus, “He is possessed by Beelzebul, and by the prince of demons he casts out the demons.” And he called them to him, and said to them in parables, “How can Satan cast out Satan? If a kingdom is divided against itself, that kingdom cannot stand. And if a house is divided against itself, that house will not be able to stand. And if Satan has risen up against himself and is divided, he cannot stand, but is coming to an end. But no one can enter a strong man’s house and plunder his goods, unless he first binds the strong man; then indeed he may plunder his house. “Truly, I say to you, all sins will be forgiven the sons of men, and whatever blasphemies they utter; but whoever blasphemes against the Holy Spirit never has forgiveness, but is guilty of an eternal sin” — for they had said, “He has an unclean spirit.”
The Gospel of the Lord.
TODAY’S REFLECTION
After a vision which he had seen during a Mass, St Thomas Aquinas decided he would write no more because all he had written thus far appeared to be of little value compared to what he had seen. Jesus is supreme over all human endeavours, even more than what we can imagine. The customary sacrifice of an animal in Jewish worship is done repeatedly as a way of renewal. But Christ’s sacrifice does not need such renewal because it was done once and for all. Each time we participate at Mass, that supreme sacrifice is made present again. This is why we should always desire to participate at Mass.
PERSONAL DEVOTIONAL
O Lord, don't punish me in your anger! Because I have been foolish, but I trust in you O Lord, and you, O Lord my God, will answer me. Don't let my enemies gloat over my distress; Psalm 38:1, 5, 15
- Ask for mercy for the times you refused to accept God’s task or left it uncompleted.
- Pray for the grace and anointing to finish your Christian race well and strong.
- Tell God about that particular divine task assigned to you and the difficulties you are facing.
- Pray for the empowerment of the Holy Spirit to complete that physical project/work.
Let Us Pray,
God, grant me the wisdom that would make me focused and firm-minded. It is only in this that I can have clear understanding of your plan and enter into the fullness of your purpose for my life. Grant me the grace not to go about trying to think out the formula for situations facing me. But help me to always ASK in FAITH in the name of Jesus Christ. Amen. Protect me from evil friends and demonic agents.
Memory Verse: Matthew 6:7
TUESDAY 24, 2023
Office: Memorial, Psalter Week 3
Mass and Preface of the Memorial
Vestment: White
Today’s Rosary: Sorrowful Mystery
-FIRST READING-
“Behold, I have come to do your will, O God.”
A reading from the Letter to the Hebrews (Hebrews 10:1-10)
Brethren: Since the law has but a shadow of the good things to come instead of the true form of these realities, it can never, by the same sacrifices which are continually offered year after year, make perfect those who draw near. Otherwise, would they not have ceased to be offered? If the worshippers had once been cleansed, they would no longer have any consciousness of sin. But in these sacrifices there is a reminder of sin year after year. For it is impossible that the blood of bulls and goats should take away sins. Consequently, when Christ came into the world, he said, “Sacrifices and offerings you have not desired, but a body you have prepared for me; in burnt offerings and sin offerings you have taken no pleasure. Then I said, ‘Behold, I have come to do your will, O God,’ as it is written of me in the roll of the book.” When he said above, “You have neither desired nor taken pleasure in sacrifices and offerings and burnt offerings and sin offerings” (these are offered according to the law), then he added, “Behold, I have come to do your will.” He abolishes the first in order to establish the second. And by that will we have been sanctified through the offering of the body of Jesus Christ once for all.
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Ps 40:2 and 4ab. 7-8a. 10. 11 (R. 8a.9a)
R/. See, I have come, Lord, to do your will.
I waited, I waited for the Lord,
and he stooped down to me; he heard my cry.
He put a new song into my mouth,
praise of our God. R/.
You delight not in sacrifice and offerings,
but in an open ear.
You do not ask for holocaust and victim.
Then I said, “See, I have come.” R/.
R/. See, I have come, Lord, to do your will.
Your justice I have proclaimed in the great assembly.
My lips I have not sealed; you know it, O Lord. R/.
Your saving help I have not hidden in my heart;
of your faithfulness and salvation I have spoken.
I made no secret of your merciful love
and your faithfulness to the great assembly. R/.
ALLELUIA Matthew 11:25
Alleluia. Blessed are you, Father, Lord of heaven and earth, that you have revealed to little ones the mysteries of the kingdom. Alleluia.
-GOSPEL-
A reading from the holy Gospel according to Mark (Mark 3:31-35)
“Whoever does the will of God is my brother, and sister, and mother.”
At that time: The mother of Jesus and his brethren came; and standing outside they sent to him and called him. And a crowd was sitting about him; and they said to him, “Your mother and your brethren are outside, asking for you.” And he replied, “Who are my mother and my brethren?” And looking around on those who sat about him, he said, “Here are my mother and my brethren! Who- ever does the will of God is my brother, and sister, and mother.”
The Gospel of the Lord.
TODAY’S REFLECTION
It is laughable to hear people say Jesus rejects his mother or insults her with the question he poses in the Gospel today. Instead, he elevates her even higher. Note that the Angel’s message to her (Luke 1:38) is not an imposition. She is free to refuse to be part of God’s plan but she accepts and cooperates with it. She therefore becomes Christ’s mother, having kept and obeyed the word of God. In the same way, Christ now proposes to us a relationship that topples biological identity. It is not a prerogative of any one or any race to belong to this relationship. One comes in only through faith and obedience to the will of God. Being Jesus’ relative offers one an ample opportunity to share in the abundance of life that he brings.
PERSONAL DEVOTIONAL
"Three times I prayed to the Lord about this and asked him to take way. But his answer was: My grace is all you need, for my power is greatest when you are weak. 2 Corinthians 12 8
- I ask for forgiveness and pardon in whatever way I have uttered your name that did not bring you glory.
- I pray against the spirit of being puffed up with pride in my daily activities.
Let Us Pray,
Enlighten my heart O Lord that I may overcome the snares of evil that tempts me from every side, disguising as an angel of light and give me the strength to always walk the way of truth that leads to you in the name of Jesus. Amen.
Memory verse: 2 Corinthians 12:10
Wednesday January 25, 2023
Vestment: White
Today’s Rosary: Sorrowful Mystery
Unity Week: Today marks the end of unity week from 18th – 25th January.
Prayers for the Unity of Christians should be used within the liturgy.
CONVERSION OF ST. PAUL (FEAST): The conversion of Saul, the persecutor of the Church,
was a turning point for the spreading of the Christian faith all over the Roman Empire. His conversion
on the way to Damascus is so significant that it is recounted three times in the Acts of the Apostles.
Paul was a tireless missionary and a great theologian, the one who shaped the Christian message, as his
letters contained in the New Testament clearly show
Entrance Antiphon 2 Tin 1:12; 4:8
I know the one in whom I have believed and I am sure that he, the just judge, the mighty, will keep safe
what is my due until that day.
Collect
O God, who taught the whole world through the preaching of the blessed Apostle Paul, draw us, we pray,
nearer to you through the example of him whose conversion we celebrate today, and so make us witnesses
to your truth in the world. Through our Lord. . .
-FIRST
READING-
Rise and be baptised, and wash away your sins, calling on the name of Jesus.
A reading from the Acts of the Apostles
(Acts 22:3-16).
In those days: Paul said to the people [in Jerusalem], “I am a Jew, born at Tarsus in Cilicia, but brought up in this city at the feet of Gamaliel, educated according to the strict manner of the law of our fathers, being zealous for God as you all are this day. I persecuted this Way to the death, binding and delivering to prison both men and women, as the high priest and the whole council of elders bear me witness. From them I received letters to the brethren, and I journeyed to Damascus to take those also who were there and bring them in bonds to Jerusalem to be punished. As I made my journey and drew near to Damascus, about noon a great light from heaven suddenly shone about me. And I fell to the ground and heard a voice saying to me, ‘Saul, Saul, why do you persecute me?’ And I answered, ‘Who are you, Lord?’ And he said to me, ‘I am Jesus of Nazareth whom you are persecuting.’ Now those who were with me saw the light but did not hear the voice of the one who was speaking to me. And I said, ‘What shall I do, Lord?’ And the Lord said to me, ‘Rise, and go into Damascus, and there you will be told all that is appointed for you to do.’ And when I could not see because of the brightness of that light, I was led by the hand by those who were with me, and came into Damascus. And one Ananias, a devout man according to the law, well-spoken of by all the Jews who lived there, came to me, and standing by me said to me, ‘Brother Saul, receive your sight.’ And in that very hour I received my sight and saw him. And he said, ‘The God of our fathers appointed you to know his will, to see the Just One and to hear a voice from his mouth; for you will be a witness for him to all men of what you have seen and heard. And now why do you wait? Rise and be baptised, and wash away your sins, calling on his name.”’
The word of the Lord.
Or the following:
-FIRST READING-
‘You will be told what you are to do.”
A reading from the Acts of the Apostles
(Acts 9:1-22).
In those days: Saul, still breathing threats and murder against the disciples of the Lord, went to the high priest and asked him for letters to the synagogues at Damascus, so that if he found any belonging to the Way, men or women, he might bring them bound to Jerusalem. Now as he journeyed he approached Damascus, and suddenly a light from heaven flashed about him. And he fell to the ground and heard a voice saying to him, “Saul, Saul, why do you persecute me?” And he said, “Who are you, Lord?” And he said, “I am Jesus, whom you are persecuting; but rise and enter the city, and you will be told what you are to do.” The men who were travelling with him stood speechless, hearing the voice but seeing no one. Saul arose from the ground; and when his eyes were opened, he could see nothing; so they led him by the hand and brought him into Damascus. And for three days he was without sight, and neither ate nor drank. Now there was a disciple at Damascus named Ananias. The Lord said to him in a vision, “Ananias.” And he said, “Here I am, Lord.” And the Lord said to him, “Rise and go to the street called Straight, and inquire in the house of Judas for a man of Tarsus named Saul; for behold, he is praying, and he has seen a man named Ananias come in and lay his hands on him so that he might regain his sight.” But Ananias answered, “Lord, I have heard from many about this man, how much evil he has done to your saints at Jerusalem; and here he has authority from the chief priests to bind all who call upon your name.” But the Lord said to him, “Go, for he is a chosen instrument of mine to carry my name before the Gentiles and kings and the sons of Israel; for I will show him how much he must suffer for the sake of my name.” So Ananias departed and entered the house. And laying his hands on him he said, “Brother Saul, the Lord Jesus who appeared to you on the road by which you came, has sent me that you may regain your sight and be filled with the Holy Spirit.” And immediately something like scales fell from his eyes and he regained his sight. Then he rose and was baptised, and took food and was strengthened. For several days he was with the disciples at Damascus. And in the synagogues immediately he proclaimed Jesus, saying, “He is the Son of God.” And all who heard hint were amazed, and said, “Is not this the man who made havoc in Jerusalem of those who called on this name? And he has come here for this purpose, to bring them bound before the chief priests.” But Saul increased all the more in strength, and confounded the Jews who lived in Damascus by proving that Jesus was the Christ.
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM (Psalm117:1.2(R Mark16:15).
R. Go into all the world and preach
the Gospel.
Or: Alleluia.
O praise the Lord, all you nations!
Acclaim him, all you peoples! R.
For his merciful love has prevailed over us;
and the Lord’s faithfulness endures forever. R.
ALLELUIA John 15:16
Alleluia. I chose you from the world that you should go and bear fruit and that your fruit should abide,
says the Lord. Alleluia.
-GOSPEL-
“Go into all the world and preach the Gospel.”
A reading from the holy Gospel according
to Mark (Mark 16:15- 18).
At that time: [Appearing to the Eleven,] Jesus said to them, “Go into all the world and preach the Gospel to the whole creation. He who believes and is baptised will be saved; but he who does not believe will be condemned. And these signs will accompany those who believe: in my name they will cast out demons; they will speak in new tongues; they will pick up serpents, and if they drink any deadly thing, it will not hurt them; they will lay their hands on the sick, and they will recover.”
The Gospel of the Lord.
Today's Reflection
The Feast of the Conversion of Saint Paul that we celebrate today teaches us that there is no one God
cannot us as an instrument for spreading the kingdom of God on earth. It also teaches us that no one can
be considered as written-off as long as he or she is still alive because a sinner can change and become
a saint. Above all, it shows the power of God at work in each one of us. Saint Paul’s conversion
shows this power in his life because out of a persecutor God made a preacher of Christ and teacher to
the nations. Hence, Saint Paul continually expresses gratitude to God for this wonderful grace and keeps
praying for final perseverance lest having preached to others, he ends up a castaway. May the constant
intercession of Saint Paul obtain for us daily true conversion from our old ways and thereby conform to
the person of our Lord Jesus Christ.
A Blessing for the New Week
In your name and by your power Oh Lord, we have seen the light of this day and we are most grateful. Thank you for life, thank you for our health, thank you for the love you have showered upon us. May your most Holy name be praised forever. Amen.
Bless and sanctify all that we shall do today so that we shall record success. May your presence grant us protection in all ramifications against every evil force and may your favour be upon us to see us through in Jesus name. Amen.
Dear Lord, provide for those who have no one to provide for them and assist our children to excel in their work and studies. Help the sick to recover and the unemployed to find something to do. Let the glory of your presence be our security and may your spirit help us to remain steadfast as we seek you face in the course of our activities.
It is a new day and a new week my dear friend, do not be afraid, instead, go out with confidence and put in your best in what you will do and the Lord will see you through. May God’s blessings fall upon you, and may he overcome every obstacle in your path and may good things come your way. Amen.
Please, go with me oh Lord. If you go with me I will succeed, but if you leave me I will fall.
Personal Devotional
All you that fear the Lord, wait for him to show you mercy. Do not turn away from Him or you
will fall. Sirach 2:7
- Thank the Lord sincerely for he is interested in the salvation of your soul.
- Reject every form of life that still makes you appear as a hypocrite before the Lord.
Let Us Pray
Lord, May I at all times keep my focus on you so that, like St. Paul, I can be inspired and have the
power to stand faithfully to share the good news of your salvation. We pray in the name of the risen
Lord Jesus Christ. Amen.
Memory Verse: 1 Corinthians 4:12
Thursday January 26, 2023
SS TIMOTHY & TITUS, B ps (Memorial)
Office: Memorial, Psalter Week 3
Mass and Preface of the Memorial
Vestment: White
Today’s Rosary: Luminous Mystery
Mass and preface of the Memorial
-FIRST READING-
“I am reminded of your sincere faith.”
A reading from the second Letter of Saint Paul to Timothy (2 Timothy 1: 1-8)
Paul, an apostle of Christ Jesus by the will of God according to the promise of the life which is in Christ Jesus, to Timothy, my beloved child: Grace, mercy, and peace from God the Father and Christ Jesus our Lord. I thank God whom I serve with a clear conscience, as did my fathers, when I remember you constantly in my prayers. As I remember your tears, I long night and day to see you, that I may be filled with joy. I am reminded of your sincere faith, a faith that dwelt first in your grandmother Lois and your mother Eunice and now, I am sure, dwells in you. For this reason I remind you to rekindle the gift of God that is within you through the laying on of my hands; for God did not give us a spirit of timidity but a spirit of power and love and self-control. Do not be ashamed then of testifying to our Lord, nor of me his prisoner, but take your share of suffering for the Gospel in the power of God.
The word of the Lord.
Or the following:
-FIRST READING-
“To Titus, my true child in a common faith.”
A reading from the Letter of Saint Paul to Titus (Titus 1:1-5)
Paul, a servant of God and an apostle of Jesus Christ, to further the faith of God’s elect and their knowledge of the truth which accords with godliness, in hope of eternal life which God, who never lies, promised ages ago and at the proper time manifested in his word through the preaching with which I have been entrusted by command of God our Saviour; to Titus, my true child in a common faith
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Ps 96:1-2a. 2b-3. 7-8a.10 (R. 3)
R/. Tell among all the peoples the wonders of the Lord
O sing a new song to the Lord,
sing to the Lord, all the earth,
O sing to the Lord, bless his name. R/.
Proclaim his salvation day by bay,
Tell among the nations his glory,
and his wonders among all the people. R/.
Give the LORD, you families of peoples,
give the Lord glory and power,
give the LORD the glory of his name. R/.
Say to the nations, "The LORD is king."
The world he made firm in its place;
he will judge the peoples in fairness R/.
Alleluia.
Alleluia. Your word is a lamp for my feet and a light to my path. Alleluia.
-GOSPEL-
"The harvest is plentiful, but the labourers are few."
A reading from the holy Gospel according to Luke (Luke 10:1-9)
At that time: The Lord appointed seventy others, and sent them on ahead of him, two by two, into every town and place where he himself was about to come. And he said to them, "The harvest is plentiful, but the labourers are few; pray therefore the Lord of the harvest to send out labourers into his harvest. God your way, behold, I send you out as lambs in the midst of wolves. Carry no purse, no bag, no sandals; and salute no one on the road. Whatever house you enter, first say, 'Peace be to this house!' And if a son of peace is there, your peace shall rest upon him; but if not, it shall return to you. And remain in the same house, eating and drinking what they provide, for the labourer deserves his wages; do not go from house to house. Whatever you enter and they receive you, eat what is set before you; heal the sick in it and say to them, 'The kingdom of God has come near to you,’’’’’
The Gospel of the Lord.
OR
-GOSPEL-
“A sower went out to sow.
A reading from the holy Gospel according to Mark (Mark 4: 1-20)
At that time: Again Jesus began to teach beside the sea. And a very large crowd gathered about him, so that he got into a boat and sat in it on the sea; and the whole crowd was beside the sea on the land. And he taught them many things in parables, and in his teaching he said to them: “Listen! A sower went out to sow. And as he sowed, some seed fell along the path, and the birds came and devoured it. Other seed fell on rocky ground, where it had not much soil, and immediately it sprang up, since it had no depth of soil; and when the sun rose it was scorched, and since it had no root it withered away. Other seed fell among thorns and the thorns grew up and choked it, and it yielded no grain. And other seeds fell into good soil and brought forth grain, growing up and increasing and yielding thirtyfold and sixtyfold and a hundredfold.” And he said, “He who has ears to hear, let him hear.” And when he was alone, those who were about him with the Twelve asked him concerning the parables. And he said to them, “To you has been given the secret of the kingdom of God, but for those outside everything is in parables; so that they may indeed see but not perceive, and may indeed hear but not understand; lest they should turn again, and be forgiven.” And he said to them, “Do you not understand this parable? How then will you understand all the parables? The sower sows the word. And these are the ones along the path, where the word is sown; when they hear, Satan immediately comes and takes away the word which is sown in them. And these in like manner are the ones sown upon rocky ground, who, when they hear the word, immediately receive it with joy; and they have no root in themselves, but endure for a while; then, when tribulation or persecution arises on account of the word, immediately they fall away. And others are the ones sown among thorns; they are those who hear the word, but the cares of the world, and the delight in riches, and the desire for other things, enter in and choke the word, and it proves unfruitful. But those that were sown upon the good soil are the ones who hear the word and accept it and bear fruit, thirtyfold and sixtyfold and a hundredfold.”
The Gospel of the Lord.
TODAY’S REFLECTION
Yesterday we noted that Jesus is everything for us and so we must endeavor to prepare a dwelling place for him in our lives. In doing that, we are bound to face some challenges. Nonetheless, we must persevere in Christ; it would be unwise to look for other means of getting solutions when he is the supreme power. If you persevere in him, he will reward you with abundance. St John Bosco faced a lot of challenges during his ministry form both civil and religious leaders (even from his boys). Sometimes it would seem that he had come to a dead end. Yet he continued to thrive through his faith in divine providence. Trust God today and carry on; he will never abandon you.
PERSONAL DEVOTIONAL
"I may be able to speak the language of human beings and even of angels, but if I have no love, my speech is no more than a noisy gong or a clanging bell" 1 Corinthians 13:1
- Help me to appreciate that all good gifts are sent from heaven above and that nothing I have that was not giving to me for the sake of my fellow brothers and sisters (neighbours).
- Give me the grace to be ever sensitive to the needs of those around me.
- Help me to realise that each time I do good to others, I do them to you.
Let Us Pray,
O God of infinite love and mercy, help me to live the life full of sincere love for you and my neighbor in Jesus name. Amen.
Friday January 27, 2023
ST ANGELA MERICI, V. (Opt. Mem.)
Office: Psalter Week 3
Mass of the day or Memorial
Vestment: Green/White
Today’s Rosary: Sorrowful Mysteries
-FIRST READING-
You endured a hard struggle. Therefore do not throw away your confidence.
A reading from the Letter to the Hebrews (Hebrews 10:32-39)
Brethren: Recall the former days when, after you were enlightened, you endured a hard struggle with sufferings, sometimes being publicly exposed to abuse and affliction, and sometimes being partners with those so treated. For you had compassion on the prisoners, and you joyfully accepted the plundering of your property, since you knew that you yourselves had a better possession and an abiding one. Therefore do not throw away your confidence, which has a great reward. For you have need of endurance, so that you may do the will of God and receive what is promised. “For yet a little while, and the coming one shall come and shall not tarry; but my righteous one shall live by faith, and if he shrinks back, my soul has no pleasure in him.” But we are not of those who shrink back and are destroyed, but of those who have faith and keep their souls.
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Psalm 37:3-4.5-6.23-24.39-40 (R. 39a)
R/. From the Lord comes the salvation of the just.
Trust in the LORD and do good;
then you will dwell in the land and safely pasture.
Find your delight in the Lord,
who grants your heart’s desire. R/.
Commit your way to the Lord;
trust in him, and he will act,
and make your uprightness shine like the light,
the justice of your cause like the noon—day sun. R/.
By the Lord are the steps made firm
of one in whose path He delights.
Though he stumble he shall never fall,
for the Lord will hold him by the hand. R/.
But from the Lord comes the salvation of the just,
their stronghold in time of distress.
The Lord helps them and rescues them,
rescues and saves them from the wicked:
because they take refuge in him. R/.
ALLELUIA Matthew 11:25
Alleluia. Blessed are you, Father, Lord of heaven and earth, that you have revealed to little ones the mysteries of the kingdom. Alleluia.
-GOSPEL-
A man scatters seed, and while he sleeps it grows, he knows not how.
A reading from the holy Gospel according to Mark (Mark 4:26-34)
At that time: Jesus said to the crowds, “The kingdom of God is as if a man should scatter seed upon the ground, and should sleep and rise night and day, and the seed should sprout and grow, lie knows not how. The earth produces of itself, first the blade, then the ear, then the full grain in the ear. But when the grain is ripe, at once he puts in the sickle, because the harvest has come.” And he said, “With what can we compare the kingdom of God, or what parable shall we use for it? It is like a grain of mustard seed, which, when sown upon the ground, is the smallest of all the seeds on earth; yet when it is sown it grows up and becomes the greatest of all shrubs, and puts forth large branches, so that the birds of the air can make nests in its shade.” With many such parables he spoke the word to them, as they were able to hear it; he did not speak to them without a parable, but privately to his own disciples he explained everything.
The Gospel of the Lord
TODAY’S REFLECTION
It is true that the Blood of Jesus saves us. Yet the readings today tell of our own part in gaining salvation. The Christian exposed to danger should be ready to be insulted because of his faith. He accepts insult cheerfully in the hope of the promises it offers. Endurance is very necessary. It is one’s faith that proves someone righteous. The Christian is not given a timid spirit; rather, we must remain faithful until our salvation is achieved. We can do this as we are on a mission to spread the kingdom of God. We must play our part while God achieves perfection for us. Our salvation is wrought by God, but not without our own effort.
PERSONAL DEVOTIONAL
Ask, and you will receive, seek, and you will find, knock, and the door will be opened to you.... Matthew 7:7
- Help me to work for the things that endure, not the thing that perish. Help me unbelief.
- Help me to constantly remain in your presence all the days of my life, realizing that in your presence, there is fullness of every good thing.
- Do not allow me to labour in vain, but help me always to remember that unless the Lord builds a house, in vain does its labourers labour.
Let Us Pray,
O Father, God of mercy and power, grant me the grace to be a source of joy of people around me. May my life bring glory to your holy name at all times. Give me the grace, Holy Father, to avoid sin and all occasions of sin. Make me thirst for holiness of life through the study of your word and practice of generosity to the church and the less privileged, this I ask through Christ our Lord. Amen.
Memory verse: Psalm 51:1
Saturday January 28, 2023
ST THOMAS AQUINAS, P.D (MEMORIAL)
Office: Memorial, Psalter Week 3
Mass and Preface of the Memorial
Vestment: White
Today’s Rosary: Joyful Mystery
Vespers 1 of the 4th Sunday of the Year
-FIRST READING-
“He looked forward to the city whose builder and maker is God”
A reading from the Letter to the Hebrews (Hebrews 11:1-2.8-19)
Brethren: Faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen. For by it the men of old received divine approval. By faith Abraham obeyed when he was called to go out to a place which he was to receive as an inheritance; and he went out, not knowing where he was to go. By faith he sojourned in the land of promise, as in a foreign land, living in tents with Isaac and Jacob, heirs with him of the same promise. For he looked forward to the city which has foundations, whose builder and maker is God. By faith Sarah herself received power to conceive, even when she was past the age, since she considered him faithful who had promised. Therefore from one man, and him as good as dead, were born descendants as many as the stars of heaven and as the innumerable grains of sand by the seashore. These all died in faith, not having received what was promised, but having seen it and greeted it from afar, and having acknowledged that they were strangers and exiles on the earth. For people who speak thus make it clear that they are seeking a homeland. If they had been thinking of that land from which they had gone out, they would have had opportunity to return. But as it is, they desire a better country, that is, a heavenly one. Therefore God is not ashamed to be called their God, for he has prepared for them a city. By faith Abraham, when he was tested, offered up Isaac, and he who had received the promises was ready to offer up his only-begotten son, of whom it was said, “Through Isaac shall your descendants be named.” He considered that God was able to raise men even from the dead; hence he did receive him back and this was a symbol.
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Luke 1:69-70.71-72.73-75 (R. see 68)
R/. Blessed be the Lord God of Israel,
for he has visited his people.
He has raised up a horn of salvation for us
in the house of his servant David,
as he spoke by the mouth of his holy prophets from of old R/.
That we should be saved from our enemies,
and from the hand of all who hate us;
to perform the mercy promised to our fathers,
and to remember his holy covenant. R/.
The oath which he swore to our father Abraham, to grant us
that we, being delivered from the hand of our enemies,
might serve him without fear,
in holiness and righteousness before him
all the days of our life. R/.
ALLELUIA John 3: 16
Alleluia. God so loved the world that he gave his only-begotten Son; that whoever believes in him should have eternal life. Alleluia.
-GOSPEL-
“Who then is this, that even wind and sea obey him?”
A reading from the holy Gospel according to Mark (Mark 4:35-41)
On that day, when evening had come, Jesus said to his disciples, “Let us go across to the other side.” And leaving the crowd, they took him with them, just as he was, in the boat. And other boats were with him. And a great storm of wind arose, and the waves beat into the boat, so that the boat was already filling. But he was in the stern, asleep on the cushion; and they woke him up and said to him, “Teacher, do you not care if we perish?” And he awoke and rebuked the wind, and said to the sea, “Peace! Be still!” And the wind ceased, and there was a great calm. He said to them, “Why are you afraid? Have you no faith?” And they were filled with awe, and said to one another, “Who then is this, that even wind and sea obey him?”
The Gospel of the Lord.
TODAY'S REELECTION
Today’s First Reading teaches us that we should be cautious in passing judgement because we may be condemning ourselves in the final analysis while thinking we are condemning others. It also teaches us that no matter the secrecy involved in any act of sin, nothing can remain concealed from God. In the Gospel, Jesus teaches us that if we put our trust in God’s presence with us always we cannot be intimidated by any force. Although David’s sin is condemned, his repentance gain him God’s forgiveness. As Christians, may we always be repentant of our sins so as to win God’s forgiveness and thereby establish a good relationship with him that is based on our trust in Him.
PERSONAL DEVOTIONAL:
"Those who trust in the Lord are like Mount Zion which can never be shaken, never moved... Psalm 125:1
- Thank God for the grace he releases to us every moment.
Let Us pray,
Father, I am sincerely sorry for wasting the grace made available to me each time I am accosted or confronted by evil or sin. By the help of your grace and from this day forward, I receive strength not to overlook the grace made available to me in Jesus name.
Memory Verse: Matthew 7:7
Sunday, January 29, 2023
FORTH SUNDAY OF THE YEAR A
Office: Psalter Week 4, Te Deum
V¹ -, R¹- V¹-, V² -, V³ -, R¹ -, R² -, R³ -
Mass prop. Gloria. Creed
Preface of Sunday
Vestment: Green
Today’s Rosary: The Glorious Mystery
Vespers II of the 4th Sunday of the Year
Theme of the Sunday: GOD CHOOSES THE POOR
The three readings of today are all linked to the theme of poverty. The beatitudes could all be summed up in the first, “Happy the poor.” To be poor, however, does not mean to possess nothing. We must be “poor in spirit,” which means that we must choose to renounce the accumulation of goods, not to use one’s capabilities and qualities selfishly and to place one’s possessions at the service of others. This theme is also found in the other two readings.
-FIRST READING-
“I will leave in the midst of you a people humble and lowly.’
A reading from the Book of the Prophet Zephaniah (Zephaniah 2:3; 3: 12-13)
Seek the Lord, all you humble of the land, who do his commands; seek righteousness, seek humility; perhaps you may be hidden on the day of the wrath of the Lord. “For I will leave in the midst of you a people humble and lowly. They shall seek refuge in the name of the Loco, those who are left in Israel; they shall do no wrong and utter no lies, nor shall there be found in their mouth a deceitful tongue. For they shall pasture and lie down, and none shall make them afraid.”
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Ps 146:7.5-9a.9bc-10 (R. Matthew 5:3)
R/. Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
It is the Lord who preserves fidelity forever,
who does justice to those who are oppressed.
It is he who gives bread to the hungry,
the Lord who sets prisoners free. R/.
It is the Lord who opens the eyes of the blind,
the LORD who raises up those who are bowed down.
It is the Lord who loves the just,
the Lord who protects the stranger. R/.
The Lord upholds the orphan and the widow,
but thwarts the path of the wicked.
The Lord will reign forever,
the God of Sion from age to age. R/.
-SECOND READING-
“God chose what is weak in the world.”
A reading from the first Letter of Saint Paul to the Corinthians (1 Corinthians 1:26-31)
Consider your call, brethren; not many of you were wise according to the flesh, not many were powerful, not many were of noble birth; but God chose what is foolish in the world to shame the wise, God chose what is weak in the world to shame the strong, God chose what is low and despised in the world, even things that are not, to bring to nothing things that are, so that no flesh might boast in the presence of God. He is the source of your life in Christ Jesus, whom God made our wisdom, our righteousness and sanctification and redemption; therefore, as it is written, “Let hint who boasts, boast of the Lord.”
The word of the Lord.
ALLELUIA Matthew 5:12a
Alleluia. Rejoice and be glad, for your reward is great in heaven.
Alleluia.
-GOSPEL-
“Blessed are the poor in spirit.”
A reading from the holy Gospel according to Matthew (Matthew 5:1-12a)
At that time: Seeing the crowds, Jesus went up on the mountain, and when he sat down his disciples came to him. And he opened his mouth and taught them, saying: “Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted. Blessed are the meek, for they shall inherit the earth. Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they shall be satisfied. Blessed are the merciful, for they shall obtain mercy. Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God. Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons of God. Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness’ sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are you when men revile you and persecute you and utter all kinds of evil against you falsely on my account. Rejoice and be glad, for your reward is great in heaven.”
The Gospel of the Lord.
Monday, January 30, 2023
Office: Psalter Week 4
Mass and Preface of the day
Vestment: Green
Today’s Rosary: The Joyful Mystery
Uromi: Tomorrow is the 8th anniversary of the Episcopal Ordination of Most Revd Donatus A. Ogun, OSA 31st January 2015
-FIRST READING-
Through faith they conquered kingdoms. God will provide something better for us.
A reading from the Letter to the Hebrews (Hebrews 11:32-40)
Brethren: What more shall I say? For time would fail me to tell of Gideon, Barak, Samson, Jephthah, of David and Samuel and the prophets— who through faith conquered kingdoms, enforced justice, received promises, stopped the mouths of lions, quenched raging fire, escaped the edge of the sword, won strength out of weakness, became mighty in war, put foreign armies to flight. Women received their dead by resurrection. Some were tortured, refusing to accept release, that they might rise again to a better life. Others suffered mocking and scourging, and even chains and imprisonment. They were stoned, they were sawn in two, they were killed with the sword; they went about in skins of sheep and goats, destitute, afflicted, ill-treated — of whom the world was not worthy— wandering over deserts and mountains, and in dens and caves of the earth. And all these, though well attested by their faith, did not receive what was promised, since God had foreseen something better for us, that apart from us they should not be made perfect.
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Psalm 31 :20.21.22.23.24 (R. 25)
R/. Be strong, let your heart take courage, all who hope in the Lord.
How great is the goodness, LORD,
that you keep for those who fear you,
that you show to those who trust
you in the sight of the children of men. R/.
You hide them in the shelter of your presence,
secure from human scheming;
you keep them safe within your
tent from disputing tongues. R/.
Blest be the Lord for he has wondrously
shown me his merciful love in a fortified city! R/.
“I am far removed from your sight,”
I said in my alarm.
Yet you heard the voice of my plea
when I cried to you for help. R/.
Love the Lord, all you his saints.
The Lord guards the faithful.
But the Lord will repay to the full
the one who acts with pride. R/.
ALLELLIA Luke 7: I6
Alleluia. A great prophet has risen among us, and God has visited his people. Alleluia.
-GOSPEL-
“Come out of the man, you unclean spirit.'”
A reading from the holy Gospel according to Mark (Mark 5: 1-20)
At that time: Jesus and his disciples came to the other side of the sea, to the country of the Gerasenes. And when he had come out of the boat, there met him out of the tombs a man with an unclean spirit, who lived among the tombs; and no one could bind him any more, even with a chain; for he had often been bound with shackles and chains, but the chains he wrenched apart, and the shackles he broke in pieces; and no one had the strength to subdue him. Night and day among the tombs and on the mountains he was always crying out, and bruising himself with stones. And when he saw Jesus from afar, he ran and worshipped him; and crying out with a loud voice, he said, “What have you to do with me, Jesus, Son of the Most High God? I adjure you by God, do not torment me.” For he had said to him, “Come out of the man, you unclean spirit!” And Jesus asked him, “What is your name?” He replied, “My name is Legion; for we are many.” And he begged him eagerly’ not to send them out of the country. Now a great herd of swine was feeding there on the hillside; and they begged him, “Send us to the swine, let us enter them.” So he gave them leave. And the unclean spirits came out, and entered the swine; and the herd, numbering about two thousand, rushed down the steep bank into the sea, and were drowned in the sea. The herdsmen fled, and told it in the city and in the country. And people came to see what it was that had happened. And they came to Jesus, and saw the demoniac sitting there, clothed and in his right mind, the man who had had the legion; and they were afraid. And those who had seen it told what had happened to the demoniac and to the swine. And they began to beg Jesus to depart from their neighbourhood. And as he was getting into the boat, the man who had been possessed with demons begged him that he might be with him. But he refused, and said to him, “Go home to your friends, and tell them how much the Lord has done for, you, and how he has had mercy on you.” And he went away and began to proclaim in the Decapolis how much Jesus had done for him; and all men marveled.
The Gospel of the Lord.
TODAY’S REFLECTION
Economic profit often blinds us to the importance of human dignity and development. While, to the people of the Gerasenes, about 2,000 herd of swine was more important than the possessed man, our Lord Jesus was more concerned about the salvation of the human person. Just look at the situation of the possessed man again. ‘He lived among the tombs and no one could restrain him even with chains. His situation was indeed pathetic. No wonder Jesus permitted the unclean spirit to go into the herd of swine. Yes, man needs to keep realizing that ‘he is worth more than a hundred sparrows’ and that the Lord is ready to make any sacrifice to save him. In the same way, man must be ready to sacrifice everything to save his fellow men and women. By this, we will bring God to everyone and his presence will always abide with us.
PERSONAL DEVOTIONAL
Ask Jesus to open doors in your life and destiny.
O Lord, shut every evil door the enemy has opened in my life, marriages, finances, health, etc.
Declare, Heavenly Father, open the door that will make me stand out in the name of JESUS THE LORD.
Let Us Pray,
I thank you Lord, and I put all my trust in you. I trust you Lord with my home, work, loved ones, family, friends and coworkers. I trust you Lord with my home, work, loved ones, family, friends and coworkers. I trust you Lord and I place everything concerning me within your hands. I know that you will work all things out for my good because you love me and I beg you to help me to love more sincerely and passionately.
Tuesday, January 31, 2023
Office: Memorial, Psalter Week 4
Mass of the day or of the Memorial
Vestment: White
Today’s Rosary: The Sorrowful Mystery
-FIRST READING-
“Let us run with perseverance thee race that is set before us.
A reading from the Letter to the Hebrews (Hebrews 12:1-4)
Brethren: Since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us also lay aside every weight, and sin which clings so closely, and let us run with perseverance the race that is set before us, looking to Jesus the pioneer and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is seated at the right hand of the throne of God. Consider him who endured from sinners such hostility against himself, so that you may not grow weary or fainthearted. In your struggle against who endured from sinners such hostility against himself, so that you may not grow weary or fainthearted. In your struggle against sin you have not yet resisted to the point of shedding your blood.
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Ps 22:26b-27.28 and 30.31-32 (R. see 27b)
R/. They will praise you, Lord, who seek you.
My vows I will pay before those who fear him.
The poor shall eat and shall have their fill.
They shall praise the Lord, those who seek him.
May their hearts live on forever and ever! R/.
All the earth shall remember and return to the Lord,
all families of the nations worship before him.
They shall worship him, all the mighty of the earth;
before him shall bow all who go down to the dust. R/.
And my soul shall live for him, my descendants serve him.
They shall tell of the Lord to generations yet to come,
declare his saving justice to peoples yet unborn:
“These are the things the Lord has done.” R/.
ALLELUIA Matthew 8: 17
Alleluia. Christ took our infirmities and bore our diseases. Alleluia.
-GOSPEL-
“Little girl, I say to you, arise.”
A reading from the holy Gospel according to Mark (Mark 5:21-43)
At that time: When Jesus had crossed again in the boat to the other side, a great crowd gathered about him; and he was beside the sea. Then came one of the rulers of the synagogue, Jairus by name; and seeing him, he fell at his feet, and begged him, saying, “My little daughter is at the point of death. Come and lay your hands on her, so that she may be made well, and live.” And he went with him. And a great crowd followed him and thronged about him. And there was a woman who had had a flow of blood for twelve years, and who had suffered much under many physicians, and had spent all that she had, and was no better but rather grew worse. She had heard the reports about Jesus, and came up behind him in the crowd and touched his garment. For she said, “If I touch even his garments, I shall be made well.” And immediately the hemorrhage ceased; and she felt in her body that she was healed of her disease. And Jesus, perceiving in himself that power had gone forth from him, immediately turned about in the crowd, and said, “Who touched my garments?” And his disciples said to him, “You see the crowd pressing around you, and yet you say, ‘Who touched me?”’ And he looked around to see who had done it. But the woman, knowing what had been done to her, came in fear and trembling and fell down before him, and told him the whole truth. And he said to her, “Daughter, your faith has made you well; go in peace, and be healed of your disease.” While he was still speaking, there came from the ruler’s house some who said, “Your daughter is dead. Why trouble the Teacher any further?” But ignoring what they said, Jesus said to the ruler of the synagogue, “Do not fear, only believe.” And he allowed no one to follow him except Peter and James and John the brother of James. When they came to the house of the ruler of the synagogue, he saw a tumult, and people weeping and wailing loudly. And when he had entered, he said to them,- “Why do you make a tumult and weep? The child is not dead but sleeping.” And they laughed at him. But he put them all outside, and took the child’s father and mother and those who were with him, and went in where the child was. Taking her by the hand he said to her, “Talitha cumi”; which means, “Little girl, I say to you, arise.” And immediately the girl got up and walked; for she was twelve years old. And immediately they were overcome with amazement. And he strictly charged them that no one should know this, and told them to give her something to eat.
The Gospel of the Lord.
TODAY’S REFLECTION
In an age of instant food, instant miracles, instant money etc, perseverance seems to have no place. But the truth is that perseverance is the key to success. To run the race of life and attain eternal happiness in the end, we must be ready to persevere, keeping ‘our eyes fixed on Jesus’. The woman with a hemorrhage persevered despite the hindrance of the crowd and got her healing. Jairus persevered in faith despite the news of the death of his daughter. St Agatha, whose memorial we celebrate today, also persevered in faith despite persecution and won a martyr’s crown. As the scripture makes clear to us, life is a race, and running with perseverance is what will help us win the race. Surely the difficulties and hurdles of life may makes us look for instant answers but focusing on Jesus and persevering gives us a lasting answer.
Wednesday, February 1, 2023
Office: Psalter Week 4
Mass and Preface of the day
Vestment: Green
Today’s Rosary: Glorious Mystery
Tomorrow before the principal Mass (PRESENTATION OF THE LORD)
The faithful gather outside of the Church in a convenient place for the blessing of candles and procession into the church in accordance with church’s tradition. On this day the faithful go forth to meet the Lord as he comes, acclaiming him as did Simeon, who recognized in Christ the “Light to enlighten the Gentiles” 1. Candles are blessed as prescribed in the Missal 2. The celebrant wears a white chasuble or a cape, 3. Procession with lighted candles follows and Mass begins with the Gloria, omitting the usual opening rites (MR n. 524).
-FIRST READING-
“The Lord disciplines him whom he loves.”
A reading from the Letter to the Hebrews 12:4-7.11-15
Brethren: In your struggle against sin you have not yet resisted to the point of shedding your blood. And have you forgotten the exhortation which addresses you as sons? — “My son, do not regard lightly the discipline of the Lord, nor lose courage when you are punished by him. For the Lord disciplines him whom he loves, and chastises every son whom he receives.” It is for discipline that you have to endure. God is treating you as sons; for what son is there whom his father does not discipline? For the moment all discipline seems painful rather than pleasant; later it yields the peaceful fruit of righteousness to those who have been trained by it. Therefore lift your drooping hands and strengthen your weak knees, and make straight paths for your feet, so that what is lame may not be put out of joint but rather be healed. Strive for peace with all men, and for the holiness without which no one will see the Lord. See to it that no one fail to obtain the grace of God; that no “root of bitterness” spring up and cause trouble, and by it the many become defiled.
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Ps 103: I -2.13-14.17-18a (R. see 17ab)
R/. The mercy of the Lord is everlasting upon those who hold him in fear.
Bless the Lord, O my soul,
and all within me, his holy name.
Bless the Lord, O my soul,
and never forget all his benefits. R/.
As a father has compassion on his children,
the Lord’s compassion is on those who fear him.
For he knows of what we are made;
he remembers that we are dust. R/.
R/. The mercy of the Lord is everlasting upon those who hold him in fear.
But the mercy of the Lord is everlasting
upon those who hold him in fear,
upon children’s children his justice,
for those who keep his covenant. R/.
ALLELUIA John 10:27
Alleluia. My sheep hear my voice, says the Lord; and I know them, and they follow me. Alleluia.
-GOSPEL-
“A prophet is not without honour, except in his own country.”
A reading from the holy Gospel according to Mark 6:1-6
At that time: Jesus came to his own country; and his disciples followed him. And on the sabbath he began to teach in the synagogue; and many who heard him were astonished, saying, “Where did this man get all this? What is the wisdom given to him? What mighty works are wrought by his hands! Is not this the carpenter, the son of Mary and brother of James and Joses and Judas and Simon, and are not his sisters here with us?” And they took offence at him. And Jesus said to them, “A prophet is not without honour, except in his own country, and among his own kin, and in his own house.” And he could do no mighty work there, except that he laid his hands upon a few sick people and healed them. And he marvelled because of their unbelief. And he went about among the villages teaching.
The Gospel of the Lord.
TODAY’S REFLECTION
knowing people so well may hinder us from knowing them truly. We get so used to what we have known of people that we tend to be blind to what they have become or are becoming. For the people of Jesus’ hometown, ‘This is the Carpenter, surely…’ and they would not accept him.’ The wisdom in his teachings and the reports about his power, even those that were before their very eyes did not fit into their initial knowledge and impression of him, and thus were unacceptable to them. They did not know that the Carpenter was also the Messiah they awaited and hence, rejected him and he could work no miracle there. We must be careful not to let our familiarity blind us to the wonders of God’s ways. Being a Christian in this age and time requires great openness to God’s continual action in the church, in the world and in our very own brothers and sisters. We must be careful not to set a boundary as to the extents of God’s wonders and his ways.
BLESSING FOR THE NEW MONTH
The Month of February is here and we are privileged to see it alive and healthy. May the name of the Lord be praised.
I decree and declare that it shall be a month of favour and upliftment for us.
May God's presence accompany you as He did for Moses and the people of Israel and may the Lord build you up again and watch over you, your work, family, business, journey and all you shall do in this month. Amen
I offer your intention this day as I celebrate the Holy Mass. Connect with me in the spirit, and from the sanctuary where I celebrate, may what you seek of the Lord come to you. Amen
In faith I claim blessing and victory for you and for me in this month.
PERSONAL DEVOTIONAL
Lord hear my prayers! In your righteousness listen to my plea; answer me in your faithfulness! Don’t put me, your servant, on trial, no one is innocent in your sight. Psalm 143:1, 2
- Pray for grace and strength to depart from sinful associations.
- Prayer for the grace to know and accept the will of God in all situations of life
Let Us Pray,
May your mercy be upon us, O Lord that we may be kept safe through famine and weakness. Let our hearts rejoice in your light and trust in the holiness of thy name that all our actions may be inspired by the might of thy power and the strength of thy Holy will. Amen.
Memory Verse: Galatians 4:6
Thursday February 2, 2023
PRESENTATION OF THE LORD (FEAST)
Office: Proper. Te Deum
Mass prop. Gloria.
Preface of the Presentation
Vestment: White
Today’s Rosary: Luminous Mystery
WORLD DAY OF CONSECRATED LIFE
DEATH ANNIVERSARY: first year death anniversary of MRS. BRIDGET EMWANTA on whose instance the Daily Readings that is now useful to millions of people was initiated. 2/2/2022.
THEME OF THE FEAST: “The Time of Purification Has Come.”
God comes to us, not to reprimand us, or to humiliate us nor even to punish us. He becomes one of us and, through his holiness, makes us pure too. In the first reading Malachi promises his coming. The Gospel shows the fulfillment of this promise. The Law of Israel states that only the mother must undergo the rite of purification after giving birth, but the gospel of today speaks of “their purification” (v. 22). The Holy Family goes to the temple and Jesus makes himself impure to accompany us where God will make us pure. The second reading develops this theme. The Son of God has chosen to be one of us and to share our human destiny. This is why he can help us in our trials.
-FIRST READING-
“The Lord whom you seek will come to his temple.”
A reading from the Book of the Prophet Malachi 3: 1- 4
Thus says the Lord God: “Behold, I send my messenger to prepare the way before me, and the Lord whom you seek will suddenly come to his temple; the messenger of the covenant in whom you delight, behold, he is coming, says the Lord of hosts. But who can endure the day of his coming, and who can stand when he appears? For he is like a refiner’s fire and like fullers’ soap; he will sit as a refiner and purifier of silver, and he will purify the sons of Levi and refine them like gold and silver, till they present right offerings to the Lord. Then the offering of Judah and Jerusalem will be pleasing to the Lord as in the days of old and as in former years.”
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Psalm24:7.8.9.10 (R. 10bc)
R/. The Lord of hosts, he is the king of glory!
O gates, lift high your heads;
grow higher, ancient doors.
Let him enter, the king of glory! R/.
Who is this king of glory?
The Lord, the mighty, the valiant;
the Lord, the valiant in war. R/.
O gates, lift high your heads;
grow higher, ancient doors.
Let him enter, the king of glory! R/.
Who is this king of glory?
He, the Lord of hosts,
he is the king of glory. R/.
-SECOND READING-
“He had to be made like his brethren in every respect.”
A reading from the Letter to the Hebrews 2: 14-18
Since the children share in flesh and blood, Jesus himself likewise partook of the same nature, that through death he might destroy him who has the power of death, that is, the devil, and deliver all those who through fear of death were subject to lifelong bondage. For surely it is not with angels that he is concerned but with the descendants of Abraham. Therefore he had to be made like his brethren in every respect, so that he might become a merciful and faithful high priest in the service of God, to make expiation for the sins of the people. For because he himself has suffered and been tempted, he is able to help those who are tempted.
The word of the Lord
ALLELUIA Luke 2:32
Alleluia. A light for revelation to the Gentiles, and for glory to your people Israel. Alleluia.
-GOSPEL-
“My eyes have seen your salvation.”
A reading from the holy Gospel according to Luke 2:22-40
When the time came for their purification according to the law of Moses, the parents of Jesus brought him up to Jerusalem to present him to the Lord (as it is written in the law of the Lord, “Every male that opens the womb shall be called holy to the Lord”) and to offer a sacrifice according to what is said in the law of the Lord, “a pair of turtledoves, or two young pigeons.” Now there was a man in Jerusalem, whose name was Simeon, and this man was righteous and devout, looking for the consolation of Israel, and the Holy Spirit was upon him. And it had been revealed to him by the Holy Spirit that he should not see death before he had seen the Lord’s Christ. And inspired by the Spirit he came into the temple; and when the parents brought in the child Jesus, to do for him according to the custom of the law, he took him up in his arms and blessed God and said, “Lord, now let your servant depart in peace, according to your word; for my eyes have seen your salvation which you have prepared in the presence of all peoples, a light for revelation to the Gentiles, and for glory to your people Israel.” *And his father and his mother marvelled at what was said about him; and Simeon blessed them and said to Mary his mother, “Behold, this child is set for the fall and rising of many in Israel, and for a sign that is spoken against (and a sword will pierce through your own soul also), that thoughts out of many hearts may be revealed.” And there goes a prophetess, Anna, the daughter of Phanuel, of the tribe of Asher; she was of a great age, having lived with her husband seven years from her virginity, and as a widow till she was eighty-four. She did not depart from the temple, worshipping with fasting and prayer night and day. And coming up at that very hour she gave thanks to God, and spoke of him to all who were looking for the redemption of Jerusalem. And when they had performed everything according to the law of the Lord, they returned into Galilee, to their own city, Nazareth. And the child grew and became strong, filled with wisdom; and the favour of God was upon him.
The Gospel of the Lord.
PRAYER OF THE FAITHFUL
Celebrant:
As we celebrate the feast of the Presentation of the Lord, let us ask for God’s grace that we may strive always to present ourselves and our tasks to him by seeking holiness of life in all our endeavours.
FOR THE CHURCH: that she may constantly experience purification and enlightenment from her Lord and God. We pray O Lord.
FOR THOSE IN CIVIL AUTHORITY: that they may provide adequate support to members of the armed forces who risk their lives to protect our nation from enemy forces. We pray O Lord.
FOR CONSECRATED PERSONS: that God, who chose them for service in their various apostolates, may continue to be their strength and support, especially in their moments of difficulties. We pray O Lord.
FOR THE NEWLY BORN IN OUR COMMUNITY: that God may grant them an abundance of grace, and that their parents may bring them up in the fear of God and love of their neighbours. We pray O Lord.
FOR OTHER INTENTIONS: (the sick, church projects or other activities).
FOR THE DEAD, especially those of our parish community and family members: that they may share in the vision of God in heaven we pray O Lord.
We pray in silence for our private intentions.
CELEBRANT:
God our Father, your light continues to shine in our world and in our lives. Make us bearers of that light that we may lead all people to your Son, Jesus Christ, who is Lord forever and ever.
R/. Amen.
TODAY’S REFLECTION
As we celebrate the presentation of the Lord, we are called to present ourselves anew to God. This means to continually worship God in spirit and in truth like Simeon and Anna. The scripture describes Simeon as a very upright and devout man and Anna as a widow who continues to serve God day and night in fasting and prayer. This no doubt earns them the privilege of recognizing the Messiah in the midst of the many children that are brought to the temple that day. One thing to learn at the presentation of the Lord is that he is not just a light to the nations and the glory of Israel but also a sign that is spoken against, a sign of contradiction. Despite all the odds, let us focus on God and daily renew our commitment to him.
PERSONAL DEVOTIONAL
"Those that trust in the Lord are like Mount Zion which can never be shaken, never moved.. Psalm 125:1
- Thank God for the grace he releases to us every moment.
Let Us pray,
Father, I am sincerely sorry for wasting the grace made available to me each time I am accosted or confronted by evil or sin. By the help of your grace and from this day forward, I receive strength not to overlook the grace made available to me in Jesus name.
Friday, February 3, 2023
Office: Psalter Week 4
Mass of the day or of the Memorial
Vestment: Green/Red/White
Today’s Rosary: sorrowful mystery
-FIRST READING-
“Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever.”
A reading from the Letter to the Hebrews, 13: 1-8
Brethren: Let brotherly love continue. Do not neglect to show hospitality to strangers, for thereby some have entertained angels unawares. Remember those who are in prison, as though in prison with them; and those who are ill-treated, since you also are in the body. Let marriage be held in honour among all, and let the marriage bed be undefiled; for God will judge the immoral and adulterous. Keep your life free from love of money, and be content with what you have; for he has said, “I will never fail you nor forsake you.” Hence we can confidently say, “The Lord is my helper, I will not be afraid; what can man do to me?” Remember your leaders, those who spoke to you the word of God; consider the outcome of their life, and imitate their faith. Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever.
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Psalm 27: l .3.5.8c-9abc (R. I a)
R/. The Lord is my light and my salvation.
The Lord is my light and my salvation;
whom shall I fear?
The Lord is the stronghold of my life;
whom should I dread? R/.
Though an army encamp against me,
my heart would not fear.
Though war break out against me,
even then would I trust. R/.
R/. The Lord is my light and my salvation.
For there he keeps me safe in his shelter
in the day of evil.
He hides me under cover of his tent;
he sets me high upon a rock. R/.
It is your face, O Lord that I seek;
hide not your face from me.
Dismiss not your servant in anger;
you have been my help. R/.
ALLELUIA Luke 8:15
Alleluia. Blessed are those who, hearing the word, hold it fast in an honest and good heart, and bring forth fruit with patience. Alleluia
-GOSPEL-
“John, whom I beheaded, has been raised.”
A reading from the holy Gospel according to Mark 6: 14-29
At that time: King Herod heard of Jesus; for his name had become known. Some said, “John the Baptist has been raised from the dead; that is why these powers are at work in him.” But others said, “It is Elijah.” And others said, “It is a prophet, like one of the prophets of old.” But when Herod heard of it he said, “John, whom I beheaded, has been raised.” For Herod had sent and seized John, and bound him in prison for the sake of Herodias, his brother Philip’s wife; because he had married her. For John said to Herod, “It is not lawful for you to have your brother's wife.” And Herodias had a grudge against him, and wanted to kill him. But she could not, for Herod feared John, knowing that he was a righteous and holy man, and kept him safe. When he heard him, he was much perplexed; and yet he heard him gladly. But an opportunity came when Herod on his birthday gave a banquet for his courtiers and officers and the leading men of Galilee. For when Herodias’ daughter came in and danced, she pleased Herod and his guests; and the king said to the girl, “Ask me for whatever you wish, and I will grant it.” And he vowed to her, “Whatever you ask me, I will give you, even half of my kingdom.” And she went out, and said to her mother, “What shall I ask?” And she said, “The head of John the Baptist.” And she came in immediately with haste to the king, and asked, saying, “I want you to give me at once the head of John the Baptist on a platter.” And the king was exceedingly sorry; but because of his oaths and his guests he did not want to break his word to her. And immediately the king sent a soldier of the guard and gave orders to bring his head in. He went and beheaded him in the prison, and brought his head on a platter, and gave it to the girl; and the girl gave it to her mother. When his disciples heard of it, they came and took his body, and laid it in a tomb.
The Gospel of the Lord.
TODAY’S REFLECTION
It has been said that ‘the evil that men do lives after them’. This saying comes true in the life of Herod who, on hearing about Jesus, exclaims, ‘it is John, whom I beheaded.’ He becomes really afraid and his past evil disturbs him. But it is equally true that ‘the good that men do lives after them’. Yes, John the Baptist continues to be relevant even in the mind of the wicked Herod. John lived a life of love and preached the same love to all including Herod, whom he told that it was unlawful for him to have his brother’s wife. Despite all odds, hatred, rejection and other evils in our quest to show love, we must ‘let brotherly love continue and must never neglect hospitality’.
PERSONAL DEVOTIONAL
- Assist me to hear you speak in the silence of my heart.
- Assist me to realise my blessings and as I name them one-by-one, help me to see the wonders you have done for me.
Let Us Pray,
Lord Jesus Christ, I believe that you took the pain of the Cross to give me new life. I ask you to come into my life and to give me your peace and Joy. I confess that I am a sinner, that I have gone my own way and have done wrong. Please forgive me for my sins. I receive you now as my Lord and Saviour. Please fill me with your Holy Spirit. Help me to follow you and to serve you all my life. Thank you, Lord Jesus. Amen.
Saturday, February 4, 2023
BVM on Saturday
Office: Memorial. Psalter Week 4
Mass and Preface of the day or BVM
Vestment: Green/White
Today’s Rosary: Joyful Mystery
Vespers 1 of the 5th Sunday of the Year
-FIRST READING-
A reading from the Letter to the Hebrews, 13: 15-17.20-21
“May the God of peace equip you with everything good.”
Brethren: Through Jesus let us continually offer up a sacrifice of praise to God, that is, the fruit of lips that acknowledge his name. Do not neglect to do good and to share what you have, for such sacrifices are pleasing to God. Obey your leaders and submit to them; for they are keeping watch over your souls, as men who will have to give account. Let them do this joyfully, and not sadly, for that would be of no advantage to you. Now may the God of peace who brought again from the dead our Lord Jesus, the great shepherd of the sheep, by the blood of the eternal covenant, equip you with everything good that you may do his will, working in you that which is pleasing in his sight, through Jesus Christ; to whom be glory for ever and ever. Amen.
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Psalm 23:1-3a.3b-4.5.6 (R. 1)
R/. The Lord is my shepherd; there is nothing I shall want.
The Lord is my shepherd;
there is nothing I shall want.
Fresh and green are the pastures
where he gives me repose.
Near restful waters he leads me;
he revives my soul. R/.
He guides me along the right path,
for the sake of his name.
Though I should walk in the
valley of the shadow of death,
No evil would I fear,
for you are with me,
Your crook and your staff
will give me comfort. R/.
R/. The Lord is my shepherd; there is nothing I shall want.
You have prepared a table
before me in the sight of my foes.
My head you have anointed with oil;
my cup is overflowing. R/.
Surely goodness and mercy shall
follow me all the days of my life.
In the LORD’s Own house shall I dwell
for length of days unending. R/.
ALLELUIA John 10:27
Alleluia. My sheep hear my voice, says the Lord; and I know them, and they follow me. Alleluia.
-GOSPEL-
“They were like sheep without a shepherd.”
A reading from the holy Gospel according to Mark 6:30-34
At that time: The apostles returned to Jesus, and told him all that they had done and taught. And he said to them, “Come away by yourselves to a lonely place, and rest a while.” For many were coming and going, and they had no leisure even to eat. And they went away in the boat to a lonely place by themselves. Now many saw them going, and knew them, and they ran there on foot from all the towns, and got there ahead of them. As he landed he saw a great throng, and he had compassion on them, because they were like sheep without a shepherd; and he began to teach them many things.
The Gospel of the Lord.
TODAY’S REFLECTION
The Apostles came back from their mission and briefed Jesus about all they taught and did. Jesus wanted them to go to a lonely place and have some rest as they were tired. But the crowd reached the destination before they could. This is typical of people. They are eager to make sacrifices and take risks to get whatever they dearly cherish. This they did and deprived the apostles of their rest. Jesus, who wanted to have privacy with them, rescinded his decision. He had compassion on the crowd and began to teach “for they were like sheep without a shepherd”. Sometimes we have to set aside our programmes and schedules to reach out to humanity or to God. For in giving we receive, and with the Lord by our side, we can rest assured of our strength being renewed. Don’t lose hope.
PERSONAL DEVOTIONAL
Wash yourselves clean. Stop all this evil that I see you doing. Yes, stop doing evil and learn to do right.... Isaiah 1:16, 17
- Ask God to clean and wash your spiritual attire with the Blood of the Lamb
- Pray against the spirit of rejecting divine engagement.
Let Us Pray,
Lord, I praise you for your salvation and the fellowship of your people. Open my eye to see You and submit my all to You.
Sunday, February 5, 2023
Fifth Sunday of the Year (A)
Office: Psalter Week 1. Te Deum
Mass Proper; Gloria. Creed.
Preface of Sunday
V¹ -, R² -, V¹ -, V² -, V³ -, R¹ -, R² -, R³ -
Vestment: Green
Today’s Rosary: Glorious Mystery
Vespers II of Sunday
THEME OF THE SUNDAY: The Christian Is Salt and Light.
The theme of the Sunday is contained in the two parables of the gospel. The figure of light is given more importance than that of salt and, in fact, the first reading refers also to the theme of light. The second reading is related to this theme. Paul states that good works are the sign of the presence of the Spirit. They are the concrete proofs of the truth of the beliefs proclaimed by Christians.
-FIRST READING-
“Your light shall break forth like the dawn.”
A reading from the Book of Isaiah, 58:7-10
Thus says the Lord: “Share your bread with the hungry, and bring the homeless poor into your house; when you see the naked, cover him, and do not hide yourself from your own flesh. Then shall your light break forth like the dawn, and your healing shall spring up speedily; your righteousness shall go before you, the glory of the Lord shall be your rear guard. Then you shall call, and the Lord will answer; you shall cry, and he will say, Here I am. If you take away from the midst of you the yoke, the pointing of the finger, and speaking wickedness, if you pour yourself out for the hungry and satisfy the desire of the afflicted, then shall your light rise in the darkness and your gloom be as the noonday.”
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Psalm 1 1 2:4-5.6-7.8a and 9 (R. 4a)
R/. A light rises in the darkness for the upright.
Or: Alleluia.
A light rises in the darkness for the upright;
he is generous, merciful and just.
It goes well for the man who deals generously and lends,
who conducts his affairs with justice. R/.
He will never be moved;
forever shall the just be remembered.
He has no fear of evil news;
with a firm heart, he trusts in the Lord. R/.
R/. A light rises in the darkness for the upright.
Or: Alleluia.
With a steadfast heart he will not fear.
Open-handed, he gives to the poor;
his justice stands firm forever.
His might shall be exalted in glory. R/.
-SECOND READING-
“I have told you of the mystery of Christ crucified”
A reading from the first Letter of Saint Paul to the Corinthians, 1 Corinthians 2:1-5
When I came to you, brethren, I did not come proclaiming to you the testimony of God in lofty words or wisdom. For I decided to know nothing among you except Jesus Christ and him crucified. And I was with you in weakness and in much fear and trembling; and my speech and my message were not in plausible words of wisdom, but in demonstration of the Spirit and power, that your faith might not rest in the wisdom of men but in the power of God.
The word of the Lord.
ALLELUIA John 8:12
Alleluia. I am the light of the world, says the Lord; he who follows me will have the light of life. Alleluia.
-GOSPEL-
”You are the light of the world.”
A reading from the holy Gospel according to Matthew, 5: 13- 16
At that time: Jesus said to his disciples, “You are the salt of the earth; but if salt has lost its taste, how shall its saltiness be restored? It is no longer good for anything except to be thrown out and trodden under foot by men. You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden. Nor do men light a lamp and put it under a bushel, but on a stand, and it gives light to all in the house. Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven.”
The Gospel of the Lord.
PRAYER OF THE FAITHFUL
CELEBRANT:
God our father is the source of all light and life, and he calls us to share in this light. Let us now ask him to lighten our darkened world through his Son.
FOR THE CHURCH: that through her missionary endeavours, she may replace the darkness in the world with the light of Christ. We pray O Lord.
FOR THOSE IN CIVIL AUTHORITY: that, by exercising their power with justice and equity, they may build a society in which the equal dignity of every person is recognized and respected. We pray O Lord.
FOR THOSE WHO FIND IT DIFFICULT TO SEEK RIGHTEOUSNESS: that the Gospel message may find fertile ground in their hearts, so that they can accept the new life in Christ and thus reflect the image of God in all they do. We pray O Lord.
FOR THIS WORSHIPPING COMMUNITY: that, through our good works, we may truly manifest the light of God and the fruits that are proper to God’s kingdom. We pray O Lord.
FOR OTHER INTENTIONS: (the sick, church projects or other activities).
FOR THE DEAD, ESPECIALLY THOSE OF OUR PARISH COMMUNITY AND FAMILY MEMBERS: that they may find eternal rest with the Lord. We pray O Lord.
We pray in silence for our private intentions.
Celebrant:
Lord God, you have made us the light of the world and salt of the earth. Help us to remain faithful to you and to retain our brightness and saltiness. Through Christ our Lord.
R/. Amen.
TODAY’S REFLECTION
One thing that salt and light have in common is that they both make a difference wherever they are. Jesus is so definite in what his followers should be. You are the salt of the earth, you are the light of the world, says he. Christians are not called to blend into the world. Rather, our Christianity must permeate the world with our values, good works and example of love. Isaiah in our first reading points out the ways that we can be salt and light today. The corporal works of mercy: feed the hungry, provide shelter for the homeless, clothe the naked, be there for your family, and avoid selfishness, arrogance and greed. With these qualities, we must strive to make a positive difference in the world by our very lives and through the church.
PERSONAL DEVOTIONAL
"Don't be ashamed in confessing your sins; There is no point in trying to stop a river from flowing" Sirach 5:26
- Make a prayer of repentance from the depth of your heart.
- Pray for our hearts to be softened towards one another, so that we can give and receive forgiveness readily within our families, churches and communities.
- Pray that God will help us to seek ways to bring reconciliation where there is estrangement, restoration where there is brokenness, and comfort where there is mourning.
Let Us Pray,
O Lord, I am weak and broken, surrounded on all sides by corruption and perversion. Lord have mercy on me: protect me from my enemies who devour me, and guide me in the way of perfection. No matter what happens to me, whether it be an attack or a seduction, may my love for you protect me from falling into sin. May I live a holy life no matter what others do around me – Amen.
Memory Verse: Isaiah 55:1,2
Monday, February 6, 2023
ST PAUL MIKI AND COMPANIONS MM (MEMORIAL)
Office: Memorial, Psalter Week 1
Mass and Preface of the Memorial
Vestment: Red
Today’s Rosary: Joyful Mystery
-FIRST READING-
God spoke, and it was so.
The beginning of the Book of Genesis 1:1-19
In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth. The earth was without form and void, and darkness was upon the face of the deep; and the Spirit of God was moving over the face of the waters. And God said, “Let there be light”; and there was light. And God saw that the light was good; and God separated the light from the darkness. God called the light Day, and the darkness he called Night. And there was evening and there was morning, one day. And God said, “Let there be a firmament in the midst of the waters, and let it separate the waters from the waters.” And God made the firmament and separated the waters which were under the firmament from the waters which were above the firmament. And it was so. And God called the firmament Heaven. And there was evening and there was morning, a second day. And God said, “Let the waters under the heavens be gathered together into one place, and let the dry land appear.” And it was so. God called the dry land Earth, and the waters that were gathered together he called Seas. And God saw that it was good. And God said, “Let the earth put forth vegetation, plants yielding seed, and fruit trees bearing fruit in which is their seed, each according to its kind, upon the earth.” And it was so. The earth brought forth vegetation, plants yielding seed according to their own kinds, and trees bearing fruit in which is their seed, each according to its kind. And God saw that it was good. And there was evening and there was morning, a third day. And God said, “Let there be lights in the firmament of the heavens to separate the day from the night; and let them be for signs and for seasons and for days and years, and let them be lights in the firmament of the heavens to give light upon the earth.” And it was so. And God made the two great lights, the greater light to rule the day, and the lesser light to rule the night; he made the stars also. And God set them in the firmament of the heavens to give light upon the earth, to rule over the day and over the night, and to separate the light from the darkness. And God saw that it was good. And there was evening and there was morning, a fourth day.
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Psalm 104:1-2a.5-6. 10 and 12.24 and 35c (R. 3 I b)
R/. May the Lord rejoice in his works! Bless the Lord, O my soul!
O Lord my God, how great you are,
clothed in majesty and honour,
wrapped in light as with a robe! R/.
You set the earth on its foundation,
immovable from age to age.
You wrapped it with the depths like a cloak;
the waters stood higher than the mountains. R/.
R/. May the Lord rejoice in his works! Bless the Lord, O my soul!
You make springs gush forth in the valleys;
they flow in between the hills.
There the birds of heaven build their nests;
from the branches they sing their song. R/.
How many are your works, O Lord!
In wisdom you have made them all.
The earth is full of your creatures.
Bless the Lord, O my soul. R/.
ALLELUIA Matthew 4:23
Alleluia. Jesus was preaching the Gospel of the kingdom and healing every infirmity among the people. Alleluia.
-GOSPEL-
“As many as touched it were made well.”
A reading from the holy Gospel according to Mark 6:53-56
At that time: When Jesus and his disciples had crossed over, they came to land at Gennesaret, and moored to the shore. And when they got out of the boat, immediately the people recognised him, and ran about the whole neighbourhood and began to bring sick people on their pallets to any place where they heard he was. And wherever he came, in villages, cities, or country, they laid the sick in the market places, and begged him that they might touch even the fringe of his garment; and as many as touched it were made well.
The Gospel of the Lord.
TODAY’S REFLECTION
The lives of St Paul Miki and Companions reveal to us the fact that through persecution our faith is tested and strengthened. Yes, these martyrs, even while being raised on crosses and stabbed with spears, remained joyful. They would rather face death than remain silent in the face of evil. They boldly spoke out the truth of the Gospel and were undaunted in their quest to be the light in the face of darkness. As Paul Miki and companions were martyred in their native Nagasaki, Japan, it shows that ‘a prophet is not without honour except in his native place’. But the blood of martyrs is the seed of evangelization, as many have been converted through the life of these martyrs.
TODAY'S SAINT AND QUOTE: St Paul Miki – February 6th
The only reason for my being killed is that I have taught the doctrine of Christ. I thank God it is for this reason that I die.
PERSONAL DEVOTIONAL
For this reason I tell you; when you pray and ask for something, believe that you have received it, and you will be given what ever you ask for. Mark 11:12
Restore to me the Joy of your Salvation, O Lord!
Let Us Pray,
I Love You Jesus my Lord above all things. I repent with my heart for sinning against you. Never permit me to separate myself from you again. Grant that I may love you always and do with me what you will!
Tuesday, February 7, 2023
Weekday (Wk5)
Office: Psalter Week 1
Mass and Preface of the day
Vestment: Green
Today’s Rosary: Sorrowful Mystery
-FIRST READING-
“Let us make man in our own image, after our likeness.”
A reading from the Book of Genesis 1:20-2:4a
And God said, “Let the waters bring forth swarms of living creatures, and let birds fly above the earth across the firmament of the heavens.” So God created the great sea monsters and every living creature that moves, with which the waters swarm, according to their kinds, and every winged bird according to its kind. And God saw that it was good. And God blessed them, saying, “Be fruitful and multiply and fill the waters in the seas, and let birds multiply on the earth.” And there was evening and there was morning, a fifth day. And God said, “Let the earth bring forth living creatures according to their kinds: cattle and creeping things and beasts of the earth according to their kinds.” And it was so. And God made the beasts of the earth according to their kinds and the cattle according to their kinds, and everything that creeps upon the ground according to its kind. And God saw that it was good. Then God said, “Let us make man in our image, after our likeness; and let them have dominion over the fish of the sea, and over the birds of the air, and over the cattle, and over all the earth, and over every creeping thing that creeps upon the earth.” So God created man in his own image, in the image of God he created him; male and female he created them. And God blessed them, and he said to them, “Be fruitful and multiply, and fill the earth and subdue it; and have dominion over the fish of the sea and over the birds of the air and over every living thing that moves upon the earth.” And God said, “Behold, I have given you every plant yielding seed which is upon the face of all the earth, and every tree with seed in its fruit; you shall have them for food. And to every beast of the earth, and to every bird 'of the all, and to everything that creeps on the earth, everything that has the breath of life, I have given every green plant for food." And it has so. And God saw everything that he had made, and behold, it was very good. And there was evening and there was morning, a sixth day. Thus the heavens and the earth were finished, and all the host of them. And on the seventh day God finished his work which he had done, and he rested on the seventh day from all his work which he had done. So God blessed the seventh day and hallowed it, because on it God rested from all his work which he had done in creation. These are the generations of the heavens and the earth when they were created.
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Psalm 8:4-5.6-7a.7b-9 (R. 2ab)
R/. O Lord, our Lord, how majestic is your name through all the earth!
When I see the heavens, the work of your fingers,
the moon and the stars which you arranged,
what is man that you should keep him in mind,
the son of man that you care for him? R/.
Yet you have made him little lower than the angels;
with glory and honour you crowned him,
gave him power over the works of your hands. R/.
You put all things under his feet,
all of them, sheep and oxen,
yes, even the cattle of the fields,
birds of the air, and fish of the sea
that make their way through the waters. R/.
ALLELUIA Psalm 119:36a.29b
Alleluia. Bend my heart, O God, to your decrees, grant me mercy by your law. Alleluia.
-GOSPEL-
“You leave the commandment of God, and holdfast the tradition of men.
”A reading from the holy Gospel according to Mark 7:1-13
At that time: When the Pharisees gathered together to Jesus, with some of the scribes, who had come from Jerusalem, they saw that some of his disciples ate with hands defiled, that is, unwashed. (For the Pharisees, and all the Jews, do not eat unless they wash their hands, observing the tradition of the elders; and when they come from the market place, they do not eat unless they purify themselves ; there are many other traditions which they observe, the washing of cups and pots and vessels of bronze.) And the Pharisees and the scribes asked him, “Why do your disciples not live according to the tradition of the elders, but eat with hands defiled?” And he said to them, “Well did Isaiah prophesy of you hypocrites, as it is written, ‘This people honours me with their lips, but their heart is far from me; in vain do they worship me, teaching as doctrines the precepts of men.’ You leave the commandment of God, and hold fast the tradition of men.” And he said to them, “You have a fine way of rejecting the commandment of God, in order to keep your tradition! For Moses said, ‘Honour your father and your mother'; and ‘He who speaks evil of father or mother, let him surely die’; but you say, ‘If a man tells his father or his mother, What you would have gained from me is Corban’ (that is, given to God) — then you no longer permit him to do anything for his father or mother, thus making void the word of God through your tradition which you hand on. And many such things you do.”
The Gospel of the Lord.
TODAY’S REFLECTION
After the creation of man in God’s divine image and likeness, God looks at everything he has created and finds it very good. Man is the crown of creation resembling God in everything; indeed in man is seen clearly a reflection of God. The scripture makes it clear that though God created every other thing, the creation of man is born out of a special decision: ‘Let us make man in our own image and likeness.’ But unfortunately man recreates himself by clinging to his human desires instead of God’s commandments. Thus even though he calls to God with his lips, his heart becomes far from God. As we too have sinned, we must reconnect our hearts and minds back to God. Realizing that he created us in his own divine image, we must remain in that image and likeness of God.
PERSONAL DEVOTIONAL
Do not bring us to hard testing, but keep us safe from the Evil one. Matthew 6:13
- Pray for forgiveness of your sins before you go into prayer.
- Jesus, by the Power in your name, drive away from me all forms of sicknesses and diseases. Restore strength to my body and joy to my spirit, so that in my renewed health, I may testify of your healing and miraculous power in the name of Jesus.
Let Us Pray,
Lord make us instruments of your holy land, that through our life of prayer and service, we may become the source of light and guardian to our failing world.
Memory Verse: 1 Peter 5:7
Wednesday, February 8, 2023
Office: Psalter Week 1
Mass and Preface of the day or Memorial
Vestment: Green/white
Today’s Rosary: Glorious Mystery
-FIRST READING-
The Lord God took the man and put him in the Garden of Eden
A reading from the Book of Genesis, 2:4b-9. 15- 17
In the day that the Lord God made the earth and the heavens, when no plant of the field was yet in the earth and no herb of the field had yet sprung up — for the Lord God had not caused it to rain upon the earth, and there was no man to till the ground; but a mist went up from the earth and watered the whole face of the ground — then the Lord God formed man of dust from the ground, and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life; and man became a living soul. And the Lord God planted a garden in Eden, in the east; and there he put the man whom he had formed. And out of the ground the Lord God made to grow every tree that is pleasant to the sight and good for food, the tree of life also in the midst of the garden, and the tree of the knowledge of good and evil. The Lord God took the man and put him in the Garden of Eden to till it and keep it. And the Lord God commanded the titan, saying, “You may freely eat of every tree of the garden; but of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil you shall not eat, for in the day that you eat of it you shall die.”
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Psalm 104:1 -2a.27-28.29bc-30 (R. 1a)
R/. Bless the Lord, O my soul!
Bless the Lord, O my soul!
O Lord my God, how great you are,
clothed in majesty and honour,
wrapped in light as with a robe! R/.
All of these look to you
to give them their food in due season.
You give it, they gather it up;
you open Wide your hand, they are well filled. R/.
You take away their breath, they die,
returning to the dust from which they came.
You send forth your spirit, and they are created,
and you renew the face of the earth. R/.
ALLELUIA John 17: 17ba
Alleluia. Your word, O Lord, is truth; sanctify us in the truth. Alleluia.
-GOSPEL-
“The things which come out of a man are what defile him!”
A reading from the holy Gospel according to Mark 7: 14-23
At that time: Jesus called the people to him again, and said to them, “Hear me, all of you, and understand: there is nothing outside a man which by going into him can defile him; but the things which come out of a man are what defile him.” And when he had entered the house, and left the people, his disciples asked him about the parable. And he said to them, “Then are you also without understanding? Do you not see that whatever goes into a man from outside cannot defile him, since it enters, not his heart but his stomach, and so passes on?” (Thus he declared all foods clean.) And he said, “What comes out of a man is what defiles a man. For from within, out of the heart of man, come evil thoughts, fornication, theft, murder, adultery, coveting, wickedness, deceit, licentiousness, envy, slander, pride, foolishness. All these evil things come from within and they defile a man.”
The Gospel of the Lord.
PERSONAL DEVOTIONAL
There is a popular saying that ‘Cleanliness is next to godliness.’ But while most of us try to look clean and good outside, we often fail to cleanse our inside. In fact, the majority of us are like beautiful cars that are very good and pleasing to the eye but the engines are very dirty. That is why Jesus in the Gospel tells us that it is not what comes from outside that defiles the person but what come from within. Our engine is our heart: if it is clean, then we will be able to function well and fulfill the mission for which we were created. What is most important therefore is not ritual cleansing but the cleansing of our heart, the purifying of our soul, for it is from our heart that good or bad behavior emanates. Let us seek the face of God and beg him to create in us a new heart and a new spirit so that our behavior and attitudes can be truly Christian.
PERSONAL DEVOTIONAL
When you pray, do not use a lot of meaningless words, as the pagans do, who think that their gods will hear them because their prayers are long. Do not be like them. Your father already knows what you need before you ask him...Matthew 6:7
- Lord, help me to place all my trust in you in times of trial, protect me from the snares of the devil who threatens to deceive me that nothing can save me from his powers and grant me the strength to always fight against his kingdom until they are utterly destroyed.
Let Us Pray,
Lord Jesus, give me the clarity to realize that my deepest longings can be satisfied only by your presence. In your name. Amen.
Memory Verse: Hebrews 4:16
Thursday, February 9, 2023
Office: Psalter Week 1
Mass and Preface of the day
Vestment: Green
Today’s Rosary: Luminous mystery
-FIRST READING-
The Lord God brought her to Adam, and they became one flesh.
A reading from the Book of Genesis 2:18-25
The Lord God said, “It is not good that the man should be alone; I will make him a helper fit for him.” So out of the ground the Lord God formed every beast of the field and every bird of the air, and brought them to the man to see what he would call them; and whatever the man called every living creature, that was its name. The man gave names to all cattle, and to the birds of the air, and to every beast of the field; but for the man there was not found a helper fit for him. So the Lord God caused a deep sleep to fall’ upon the man, and while he slept took one of his ribs and closed up its place with flesh; and the rib which the Lord God had taken from the man he made into a woman and brought her to the man. Then the man said, “This at last is bone of my bones and flesh of my flesh; she shall be called Woman, because she was taken out of Man.” Therefore a man leaves his father and his mother and clings to his wife, and they become one flesh. And the man and his wife were both naked, and were not ashamed.
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Psalm 128: 1-2.3.4-5 (R. see la)
R/. Blessed are all who fear the Lord.
Blessed are all who fear the Lord,
and walk in his ways!
By the labour of your hands you shall eat.
You will be blessed and prosper. R/.
Your wife like a fruitful vine
in the heart of your house;
your children like shoots of the olive
around your table. R/.
R/. Blessed are all who fear the Lord.
Indeed thus shall be blessed
the man who fears the Lord.
May the Lord bless you from Sion.
May you see Jerusalem prosper
all the days of your life! R/.
ALLELUIA James 1:21bc
Alleluia. Receive with meekness the implanted word, which is able to save your souls. Alleluia.
-GOSPEL-
“The dogs under the table eat the children’s crumbs.”
A reading from the holy Gospel according to Mark 7:24-30
At that time: Jesus arose and went away to the region of Tyre and Sidon. And he entered a house, and would not have any one know it; yet he could not be hidden. But immediately a woman, whose little daughter was possessed by an unclean spirit, heard of him,’ and came and fell down at his feet. Now the woman was a Greek, a Syrophoenician by birth. And she begged him to cast the demon out of her daughter. And he said to her, “Let the children first be fed, for it is not right to take the children’s bread and throw it to the dogs.” But she answered him, “Yes, Lord; yet even the dogs under the table eat the children’s crumbs.” And he said to her, “For this saying you may go your way; the demon has left your daughter.” And she went home, and found the child lying in bed, and the demon gone.
The Gospel of the Lord.
TODAY’S REFLECTION
One cannot but marvel at the faith of the Syro-Phoenician woman in the Gospel today. Everything seems to be against her. She is a woman and the social norms of the time do not permit women to speak with strangers, let alone interact with men. She is a Greek, meaning she is not a Jew but among the group referred to by Jews as pagans. But despite all these and the derogatory metaphor of children and dogs used by Jesus, the woman persists in her faith. She will allow nothing to hinder her from getting healing for her daughter. She acknowledges the priority for the Jews but states that salvation is meant for all. Surely she is a model of faith, calling us to realize that all that is needed for God to work wonders in our lives is persistent faith. God will never give up on us and, no matter how bad the situation, we must not give up on God.
TODAY’S REFLECTION
One cannot but marvel at the faith of the Syro-Phoenician woman in the Gospel today. Everything seems to be against her. She is a woman and the social norms of the time do not permit women to speak with strangers, let alone interact with men. She is a Greek, meaning she is not a Jew but among the group referred to by Jews as pagans. But despite all these and the derogatory metaphor of children and dogs used by Jesus, the woman persists in her faith. She will allow nothing to hinder her from getting healing for her daughter. She acknowledges the priority for the Jews but states that salvation is meant for all. Surely she is a model of faith, calling us to realize that all that is needed for God to work wonders in our lives is persistent faith. God will never give up on us and, no matter how bad the situation, we must not give up on God.
PERSONAL DEVOTIONAL
"Why are you so far away, O Lord? Why do you hide yourself when we are in trouble?, Psalm 10:1
- Repent and ask for mercy for the times you have fallen short of the demands of discipleship.
- It was my sins that condemned you to die O lord, I beseech you, by the merits of your death, to assist my soul on its journey to eternity.
Let Us Pray
I love you, Jesus, my Love, above all things. I repent with my whole heart for having offended you. Never permit me to separate myself from you again. Grant that I may love you always; and then do with me as you will.
Dearly beloved in Christ,
Our Country Nigeria shall be holding her general elections soon, please let us pray for the successful conduct of the General Election and sought the intercession of Our Mother of Perpetual Help the mediatrix of all graces.
CHAPLET OF OUR MOTHER OF PERPETUAL HELP
On the larger beads: (As that of Our Father in a normal Rosary)
"O Mother of Perpetual Help,
Listen to our pleading souls,
You can help us in our needs,
Mary, with hope, we call on you."
On the smaller beads:
"O Mary, help us!" . . .10x
When completing each decade, say:
"Mary has helped us,
Mary wants to help us,
Mary can help us.
Mary will help us."
After completing the five decades of the Holy Rosary, on each of the 3 small beads, say:
Upon completing the Chaplet, say the following prayer:
"We fly to your patronage,
O Holy Mother of God.
Despise not our petitions in our necessities,
but deliver us from all dangers,
O ever glorious and blessed Virgin Mary.
Our Lady of Perpetual Help, pray for us!"
PRAYER FOR OUR FORTH COMING ELECTION
God of mercy and compassion, our country Nigeria is in a time of great transition. With all of the injustice and fear in our country today, we ask you to inspire us and guide us as we participate in the upcoming elections.
Give us the grace to vote wisely without being enticed or seduced by money or false promises. We seek a government that upholds and protects human rights and justice for all its citizens, regardless of class, gender, or religion. Move and inspire us by your presence among us in the most vulnerable in our society. Thank you Lord for the right to vote, we pray. Amen.
Friday, February 10, 2023
Office: Memorial, Psalter Week 1
Mass and Preface of the Memorial
Vestment: White
Today’s Rosary: Sorrowful Mystery
-FIRST READING-
“You will be like God, knowing good and evil.”
A reading from the Book of Genesis 3: 1- 8
The serpent was more subtle than any other wild creature that the Lord God had made. He said to the woman, “Did God say, ‘You shall not eat of any tree of the garden’?” And the woman said to the serpent, “We may eat of the fruit of the trees of the garden; but God said, ‘You shall not eat of the fruit of the tree which is in the midst of the garden, neither shall you touch it, lest you die.”’ But the serpent said to the woman, “You will not die. For God knows that when you eat of it your eyes will be opened, and you will be like God, knowing good and evil.” So when the woman saw that the tree was good for food, and that it was a delight to the eyes, and that the tree was to be desired to make one wise, she took of its fruits and ate; and she also gave some to her husband, and he ate. Then the eyes of both were opened, and they knew that they were naked; and they sewed fig leaves together and made themselves aprons. And they heard the sound of the Lord God walking in the garden in the cool of the day, and the man and his wife hid themselves from the presence of the Lord God among the trees of the garden.
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM PSALM 32:1-2.5.6.7(R1a)
R/. Blessed is he whose transgression is forgiven
Blessed is he whose transgression
is forgiven, whose sin is remitted.
Blessed the man to whom the lord imputes no guilt,
in hose spirit is no guile. R/.
To you I have acknowledge my sin;
my guilt I did not hide.
I said, ‘’I will confess my transgression to the lord.’’
And you have forgiven the guilt of my sin. R/.
R/. Blessed is he whose transgression is forgiven
So let each faithful one pray to you
in the time of need.
The floods of water may reach high,
but such a one they shall not reach. R/.
You are a hiding place for me;
you keep me safe from distress;
You surround me with cries of deliverance. R/.
ALLELUIA Acts 16: l4b
Alleluia. Open our hearts, O Lord, that we may give heed to the words of your Son. Alleluia.
-GOSPEL-
“He makes the deaf hear and the mute speak.”
A reading from the holy Gospel according to Mark 7:31-37
At that time: Jesus returned from the region of Tyre, and went through Sidon to the Sea of Galilee, through the region of the Decapolis. And they brought to him a man who was deaf and had an impediment in his speech; and they begged him to lay his hand upon him. And taking him aside from the multitude privately, he put his fingers into his ears, and he spat and touched his tongue; and looking up to heaven, he sighed, and said to him, “Ephphatha,” that is, “Be opened.” And his ears were opened, his tongue was released, and he spoke plainly. And he charged them to tell no one; but the more he charged them, the more zealously they proclaimed it. And they were astonished beyond measure, saying, “He has done all things well; he even makes the deaf hear and the mute speak.”
The Gospel of the Lord.
TODAY’S REFLECTION
The desire of our first parents to be like God makes them fall for the trick of the devil and eat the forbidden fruit. But are they not already like God? The book of (Genesis 1:26-27) attests to the fact that God has created man in his own image and likeness. From the very beginning of creation therefore, man has had the image and likeness of God. What makes him fall for the devil is simply his being deaf and dumb to God’s instructions. God has already said, ‘do not…’ and when the devil came, it should have been an emphatic ‘No’ to him. Whether the allegory is true or not, the basic reasons for man’s fall are his focusing on the object of temptation and contemplating the pleasures to be achieved by it. We too have our own daily objects of temptations and the devil is ever ready to call our attention to them. By having total trust in God we must give no room in our life to the devil. The Lord is always ready to open our ears to listen to him and our tongue to proclaim his wonders so that we can overcome temptations. All we need to do is to acknowledge our sins and cry to him for help.
PERSONAL DEVOTIONAL
So stand ready, with truth as a belt tight round your waist, with righteousness as your breastplate and as your shoes the readiness to announce the Good News of peace. Ephesians 6:14, 15
- Lord, help me to always adopt godly strategies in bringing up the children you have given to me, in Jesus name.
- Pray also that God in his infinite power should provide Children for all those looking for the fruit of the womb
- Dear Holy Spirit, teach me so that I can be a positive influence on the children around me by teaching them your truth
Let Us Pray
Father, you have promised that your spirit and your word would never depart from me or my children and their children's children. Please save each one of my children, grandchildren and descendants, fill each one with your spirit, O Lord. Please cause each one to love and delight in your word in the name of Jesus Christ.
Saturday, February 11, 2023
OUR LADY OF LOURDES, (OPT MEMORIAL)
BVM ON SATURDAY
Office: Psalter Week 1
Mass and Preface of the day or Memorial
Vestment: Green/White
Today’s Rosary: Joyful Mystery
Vespers 1 of the 6th Sunday of the Year
-FIRST READING-
The Lord God sent him forth from the Garden of Eden, to till the ground
A reading from the Book of Genesis 3:9-24
The Lord God called to the man, and said to him, “Where are you?” And he said, “I heard the sound of you in the garden, and I was afraid, because I was naked; and I hid myself.” He said, “Who told you that you were naked? Have you eaten of the tree of which I commanded you not to eat?” The man said, “The woman whom you gave to be with me, she gave me fruit of the tree, and I ate.” Then the Lord God said to the woman, “What is this that you have done?” The woman said, “The serpent beguiled me, and I ate.” The Lord God said to the serpent, “Because you have done this, cursed are you above all cattle, and above all wild animals; upon your belly you shall go, and dust you shall eat all the days of your life. I will put enmity between you and the woman, and between your seed and her seed; he shall bruise your head, and you shall bruise his heel.” To the woman he said, “I will greatly multiply your pain in childbearing; in pain you shall bring forth children, yet your desire shall be for your husband, and he shall rule over you.” And to Adam he said, “Because you have listened to the voice of your wife, and have eaten of the tree of which I commanded you, ‘You shall not eat of it,’ cursed is the ground because of you; in toil you shall eat of it all the days of your life; thorns and thistles it shall bring forth to you; and you shall eat the plants of the field. In the sweat of your face you shall eat bread till you return to the ground, for out of it you were taken; you are dust, and to dust you shall return.” The man called his wife’s name Eve, because she was the mother of all living. And the Lord God made for Adam and for his wife garments of skins, and clothed them. Then the Lord God said, “Behold, the man has become like one of us, knowing good and evil; and now, lest he put forth his hand and take also of the tree of life, and eat, and live forever” — therefore the Lord God sent him forth from the garden of Eden, to till the ground from which he was taken. He drove out the man; and at the east of the Garden of Eden he placed the cherubim, and a flaming sword which turned every way, to guard the way to the tree of life.
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Psalm 90:2.3-4.5—6.12-13 (R. 1)
R/. O Lord, you have been our refuge, from generation to generation.
Before the mountains were born,
or the earth or the world were brought forth,
you are God, from age to age. R/.
You turn man back to dust,
and say, “Return, O children of men.”
To your eyes a thousand years
are like yesterday, come and gone,
or like a watch in the night. R/.
R/. O Lord, you have been our refuge, from generation to generation.
You sweep them away like a dream,
like grass which is fresh in the morning.
In the morning it sprouts and is fresh;
by evening it withers and fades. R/.
Then teach us to number our days,
that we may gain wisdom of heart.
Turn back, O Lord! How long?
Show pity to your servants. R/.
ALLELUIA Matthew 4:4b
Alleluia. Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceeds from the mouth of God. Alleluia.
-GOSPEL-
“They ate, and were satisfied.”
A reading from the holy Gospel according to Mark 8: 1-10
In those days, when again a great crowd had gathered, and they had nothing to eat, Jesus called his disciples to him, and said to them, “I have compassion on the crowd, because they have been with me now three days, and have nothing to eat; and if I send them away hungry to their homes, they will faint on the way; and some of them have come a long way.” And his disciples answered him, “How can one feed these men with bread here in the desert?” And he asked them, “How many loaves have you?” They said, “Seven.” And he commanded the crowd to sit down on the ground; and he took the seven loaves, and having given thanks he broke them and gave them to his disciples to set before the people; and they set them before the crowd. And they had a few small fish; and having blessed them, he commanded that these also should be set before them. And they ate, and were satisfied; and they took up the broken pieces left over, seven baskets full. And there were about four thousand people. And he sent them away; and immediately he got into the boat with his disciples, and went to the district of Dalmanutha.
The Gospel of the Lord
TODAY’S REFLECTION
The story of the feeding of the four thousand persons reveals to us the power of God to provide for our needs. Yes, God’s care for man is not limited to the spiritual; he cares equally for our physical well-being, Jesus feels for the people, he has sympathy for them and, when what they have is made available, multiples food for the good of all. Our world today is filled with many who suffer; many with nothing to eat while some waste food; many families struggle to survive; there is depression and confusion, and yet the same world is overflowing with ‘abundance of milk and honey’. What irony! The problem is that most of us have closed our eyes to the needs of the majority of us. Sympathy has no place for most of us have closed our eyes to the needs of the majority of us. Sympathy has no place for most of us; what is paramount is our own satisfaction. We are therefore called to realize that poverty will only be eradicated when we desist from hoarding the goods of the earth, let us remember that ‘all the goods of the earth are sent from heaven above’ and, in appreciation to God, we must make them available for the good of all.
PERSONAL DEVOTIONAL
The end of all things is near. You must be self-controlled and alert, to be able to pray. 1 Peter 4:7
- Dear Lord Jesus, I am very sorry for the number of times I have doubted your reality in my life through my dispositions and my attitudes, please be merciful to me.
- Grant me the grace not to lose the sense of your reality every moment of my life in the name of Jesus.
Let Us Pray
Open the eyes of my mind Lord, that I may see as you see, think as you think and choose as you would choose in the name of Jesus. Amen
Sunday, February 12, 2023
SIXTH SUNDAY OF THE YEAR (A)
Office: Psalter Week 2, Te Deum
V¹ -, V² -, R¹ -, R² -,
Mass Proper; Gloria, Creed.
Preface of Sunday
Vestment: Green
Today’s Rosary: Glorious Mystery
Vespers II of the 6th Sunday of the Year
THEME OF THE SUNDAY: It Was Said to Our Ancestors . . .
But I Say This to You. The first reading tells us that we are free and we are accountable for our actions. The second reading speaks of the wisdom of God, so different from human wisdom; the gospel gives some examples of this. The disciples do not ask Jesus to explain what he says. They believe in the love of the Father and they know that the way he shows them is the way to life.
ENTRANCE ANTIPHON Cf. Ps 30:3-4
Be my protector, O God, a mighty stronghold to save me. For you are my rock, my stronghold! Lead me, guide me, for the sake of your name.
COLLECT
O God, who teach us that you abide in hearts that are just and true, grant that we may be so fashioned by your grace as to become a dwelling pleasing to you. Through our Lord…
-FIRST READING-
“He has not commanded any one to be ungodly.”
A reading from the Book of Sirach 15: 15-20
If you will, you can keep the commandments, they will save you; if you trust in God, you too shall live. He has placed before you fire and water: stretch out your hand for whichever you wish. Before a man are life and death, good and evil, and whichever he chooses will be given to him. For great is the wisdom of the Lord; he is mighty in power and sees everything. The eyes of the Lord are on those who fear him, and he knows every deed of man. He has not commanded any one to be ungodly, and he has not given any one permission to sin.
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Psalm 119: 1-2.4-5.17-1 8.33-34 (R. 1b)
R/. Blessed are those who walk in the law of the Lord!
Blessed are those whose way is blameless,
who walk in the law of the Lord!
Blessed are those who keep his decrees!
With all their hearts they seek him. R/.
You have laid down your precepts
to be carefully kept. May my ways be firm
in keeping your statutes. R/.
R/. Blessed are those who walk in the law of the Lord!
Deal bountifully with your servant,
that I may live and keep your word.
Open my eyes, that I may see
the wonders of your law. R/.
Lord, teach me the way of your statutes,
and I will keep them to the end.
Grant me insight that I may keep your law,
and observe it wholeheartedly. R/.
-SECOND READING-
“They wisdom of God which he decreed before the ages for our glorification
A reading from the first Letter of Saint Paul to the Corinthians, (1 Corinthians 2:6-10)
Brethren: Among the mature we do impart wisdom, although it is not a wisdom of this age or of the rulers of this age, who are doomed to pass away. But we impart a secret and hidden wisdom of God, which God decreed before the ages for our glorification. None of the rulers of this age understood this; for if they had, they would not have crucified the Lord of glory. But, as it is written, “What no eye has seen, nor ear heard, nor the heart of man conceived, what God has prepared for those who love him,” God has revealed to us through the Spirit. For the Spirit searches everything, even the depths of God.
The word of the Lord.
ALLELUIA Matthew 11:25
Alleluia. Blessed are you, Father, Lord of heaven and earth, that you have revealed to little ones the mysteries of the kingdom. Alleluia.
-GOSPEL-
“You have heard that it was said to the men of old, but I say to you.”
A reading from the holy Gospel according to Matthew 5: 17-.37
*At that time: Jesus said to his discip1es, “Do not think that I have come to abolish the law and the prophets; I have come not to abolish them but to fulfil them. For truly, I say to you, till heaven and earth pass away, not an iota, not a dot, will pass from the law until all is accomplished. Whoever then relaxes one of the least of these commandments and teaches men so, shall be called least in the kingdom of heaven; but he who does them and teaches them shall be called great in the kingdom of heaven. *For I tell you, unless your righteousness exceeds that of the scribes and Pharisees, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven. “You have heard that it was said to the men of old, ‘You shall not kill; and whoever kills shall be liable to judgement.’ But I say to you that everyone who is angry with his brother shall be liable to judgement; whoever insults his brother shall be liable to the council,* and whoever says, ‘You fool!’ shall be liable to the hell of fire. So if you are offering your gift at the altar, and there remember that your brother has something against you, leave your gift there before the altar and go; first be reconciled to your brother, and then come and offer your gift. Make friends quickly with your accuser, while you are going with him to court, lest your accuser hand you over to the judge, and the judge to the guard, and you be put in prison; truly, I say to you, you will never get out till you have paid the last penny. “You have heard that it was said, ‘You shall not commit adultery.’ But I say to you that everyone who looks at a woman lustfully has already committed adultery with her in his heart.* If your right eye causes you to sin, pluck it out and throw it away; it is better that you lose one of your members than that your whole body be thrown into hell. And if your right hand causes you to sin, cut it off and throw it away; it is better that you lose one of your members than that your whole body go into hell. It was also said, ‘Whoever divorces his wife, let him give her a certificate of divorce.’ But I say to you that everyone who divorces his wife, except on the ground of unchastity, makes her an adulteress; and whoever marries a divorced woman commits adultery. *“Again you have heard that it was said to the men of old, ‘You shall not swear falsely, but shall perform to the Lord what you have sworn.’ But I say to you, Do not swear at all, either by heaven, for it is the throne of God, or by the earth, for it is his footstool, or by Jerusalem, for it is the city of the great King. And do not swear by your head, for you cannot make one hair white or black.* Let what you say be simply ‘Yes’ or ‘No’; anything more than this comes from the Evil One.”
The Gospel of the Lord.*
Shorter form: Matthew 5 :20-22a.27-28.33-34a.37. Read between *
PRAYER OF THE FAITHFUL
Celebrant:
God promises blessings to those who follow his law and seek him with all their hearts. Let us pray for the grace to be ever faithful to him and for our other needs.
FOR CHURCH LEADERS: that God may continue to assist them in their task of shepherding the flock of Christ. Let us pray to the Lord.
FOR PEACE IN OUR COUNTRY: that the troubled parts of our country may enjoy lasting peace, and that government policies may promote unity among the peoples of this nation. Let us pray to the Lord.
FOR THE UNEMPLOYED: that they may gain employment so that they may be able to contribute to nation-building according to the mind of God. Let us pray to the Lord.
FOR TEACHERS IN OUR WORSHIPPING COMMUNITY: that they may be guided by God’s spirit as they continue to hand on to our children the teachings of Christ and his church. Let us pray to the Lord.
FOR OTHER INTENTIONS: (the sick, church projects or other activities).
FOR THE DEAD, ESPECIALLY THOSE OF OUR PARISH COMMUNITY AND FAMILY MEMBERS: that they may find eternal rest with the Lord. Let us pray to the Lord.
We pray in silence for our private intentions.
Celebrant:
Father, grant us the grace that in every aspect of our lives, we may live according to your commandments. Fill us with your blessings and hear our prayers. Through Christ our Lord.
R/. Amen.
TODAY’S REFLECTION
As Jesus began his public ministry, it was clear he did not approve of many things the Pharisees said and did. He denounced them for their wrong interpretation of the laws and the prophets. Jesus in our gospel reading today, states categorically that he has come not to abolish the law or the Prophets but to complete them. While the scribes and the Pharisees, multiplied the laws for reasons of pride, Jesus reaffirms the true spirit of the Law and prophets and raises them to a new level that perfects them. Rather than taking pride in having not committed murder, the follower of Jesus must be weary of committing slander which kills though not physically. While Moses taught that it was wrong to commit adultery, Jesus says it is even wrong to entertain thoughts of adultery. Thus, he challenged his disciples and us to look within and check our attitude and intentions because these precede our actions. Our Christian identity is defined not just by what we don’t do but by what we do. The virtue of the followers of Jesus must go beyond that of the scribes and Pharisees.
PERSONAL DEVOTIONAL
"When the Holy Spirit comes upon you, you will be filled with power, and you will be witnesses for me in Jerusalem.... and to the ends of the earth" Acts 1:6
- Pray that the glory of the Lord should overshadow you and your household.
- Pray that all your actions and deeds should be influenced by God the Father, God the Son and God the Holy Spirit
Let Us Pray,
Breathe into me, Holy Spirit, that my thoughts may all be holy. Move in me, Holy Spirit, that my work, too, may be holy. Attract my heart, Holy Spirit, that I may love only what is holy. Strengthen me, Holy Spirit that I may defend all that is holy. Protect me, Holy Spirit, that I may always be holy.
Memory Verse: John 1:1
Monday, February 13, 2023
Weekday (Wk 6)
Mass and Preface of the day
Vestment: Green
Today’s Rosary: Joyful Mystery
-FIRST READING-
“Cain rose up against his brother Abel, and killed him.”
A reading from the Book of Genesis 4:1-15.25
Adam knew Eve his wife, and she conceived and bore Cain, saying, “I have gotten a man with the help of the Lord.” And again, she bore his brother Abel. Now Abel was a keeper of sheep, and Cain a tiller of the ground. In the course of time Cain brought to the Lord an offering of the fruit of the ground, and Abel brought some of the firstlings of his flock and of their fat portions. And the Lord had regard for Abel and his offering, but for Cain and his offering he had no regard. So Cain was very angry, and his countenance fell. The Lord said to Cain, “Why are you angry, and why has your countenance fallen? If you do well, will you not be accepted? And if you do not do well, sin is lurking at the door; its desire is for you, but you must master it.” Cain said to Abel his brother, “Let us go out to the field.” And when they were in the field, Cain rose up against his brother Abel, and killed him. Then the Lord said to Cain, “Where is Abel your brother?” He said, “I do not know; am I my brother’s keeper?” And the Lord said, “What have you done? The voice of your brother’s blood is crying to me from the ground. And now you are cursed from the ground, which has opened its mouth to receive your brother’s blood from your hand. When you till the ground, it shall no longer yield to you its strength; you shall be a fugitive and a wanderer on the earth.” Cain said to the Lord, “My punishment is greater than I can bear. Behold, you have driven me this day away from the ground; and from your face I shall be hidden; and I shall be a fugitive and a wanderer on the earth, and whoever finds me will slay me.” Then the Lord said to him, “Not so! If anyone slays Cain, vengeance shall be taken on him sevenfold.” And the Lord put a mark on Cain, lest any who came upon him should kill him. And Adam knew his wife again, and she bore a son and called his name Seth, for she said, “God has appointed for me another child instead of Abel, for Cain slew him.”
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Ps 50: 1 and 8.16bc-17.20-21 (R. cf. 14a)
R/. Give your praise as a sacrifice to God.
“The God of gods, the Lord,
has spoken and summoned the earth,
from the rising of the sun to its setting.
I do not rebuke you for your sacrifices;
your offerings are always before me.” R/.
“How can you recite my commandments,
and take my covenant on your lips,
you who despise correction,
and cast my words behind you?” R/.
“You who sit and malign your own brother,
and slander your own mother’s son?
You do this, and should I keep silence?
Do you think that I am like you?
I accuse you, lay the charge before you.” R/.
Alleluia John 14:6
Alleluia. I am the way, and the truth, and the life, says the Lord; no one comes to the Father but by me. Alleluia.
-GOSPEL-
“Why does this generation seek a sign?”
A reading from the holy Gospel according to Mark 8:11-13
At that time: The Pharisees came and began to argue with Jesus, seeking from him a sign from heaven, to test him. And he sighed deeply in his spirit, and said, “Why does this generation seek a sign? Truly, I say to you, no sign shall be given to this generation.” And he left them, and getting into the boat again he departed to the other side.
The Gospel of the Lord.
TODAY’S REFLECTION
The Pharisees were supposed to be epitomes of faith, but rather they were seeking signs from Jesus. The sign of the acceptance of Abel’s offering was that God looked with favour on it but it was first his faith in God that made him bring the best to God. Instead of seeking signs and wonders, we must have faith and make all the efforts to remove from us the vices of jealousy, hatred and anger. Remember, a humble contrite heart the Lord will not spurn.
Blessing for the New Week
Thank you Lord for this new day and this new week. Thank you for the gift of life. Thank you for your mercy and love.
Accompany us in all that we shall do and may your grace help us to do the right thing at all times so that we will please you and be blessed by you. May your truth be on our lips always and may we be willing and ready to accept the truth so that we will be healed.
I pray that God will shower his blessings upon you in a special way so that this new week shall bring joy, progress, increase in faith and prosperity to you and upon your household.
May Jesus the giver of every good gift lead you to your blessings. Be truthful in your dealings and you will be blessed. Amen.
Meditation: Luke 4:16-30
Tuesday, February 14, 2023
SS CYRIL, MONK & METHODIUS, B (MEMORIAL)
Office: Memorial, Psalter week 2
Mass and Preface of the Memorial
Vestment: White
Today’s Rosary: Sorrowful Mystery
-FIRST READING-
“I will blot out man whom I have created from the face of the ground.”
A reading from the Book of Genesis 6:5-8; 7:1-5, 10
The LORD saw that the wickedness of man was great in the earth, and that every imagination of the thoughts of his heart was only evil continually. And the Lord was sorry that he had made man on the earth, and it grieved him to his heart. So the Lord said, “I will blot out man whom I have created from the face of the ground, man and beast and creeping things and birds of the air, for I am sorry that I have made them.” But Noah found favour in the eyes of the Lord. Then the Lord said to Noah, “Go into the ark, you and all your household, for I have seen that you are righteous before me in this generation. Take with you seven pairs of all clean animals, the male and his mate; and a pair of the animals that are not clean, the male and his mate; and seven pairs of the birds of the air also, male and female, to keep their kind alive upon the face of all the earth. For in seven days I will send rain upon the earth forty days and forty nights; and every living thing that I have made I will blot out from the face of the ground.” And Noah did all that the Lord had commanded him. And after seven days the waters of the flood came upon the earth.
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Ps 29:1a. 2.3ac-4.3b .9c- 10 (R. 11b)
R/. The Lord will bless his people with peace.
Ascribe to the Lord, you heavenly powers,
ascribe to the Lord the glory of his name;
bow down before the Lord,
majestic in holiness. R/.
The voice of the LORD upon the waters,
the Lord on the immensity of waters;
the voice of the Lord full of power;
the voice of the Lord full of splendour. R/.
R/. The Lord will bless his people with peace.
The God of glory thunders;
in his temple they all cry, “Glory!”
The Lord sat enthroned above the flood;
the Lord sits as king forever. R/.
ALLELUIA John 14:23
Alleluia. If a man loves me, he will keep my word, says the Lord; and my Father will love him, and we will come to him. Alleluia.
-GOSPEL-
“Beware of the leaven of the Pharisees and of Herod.”
A reading from the holy Gospel according to Mark 8:14-21
At that time: The disciples had forgotten to bring bread; and they has only one loaf with them in the boat. And Jesus cautioned them, saying. “Take heed, beware of the leaven of the Pharisees and the leaven of Herod. “And they discussed it with one another, saying, “We have no bread. “And being aware of it. Jesus said to them, “Why do you discuss the fact that you have no bread? Do you not yet perceive or understand? Are your hearts hardened? Having eyes do you not see, and having ears do you not hear? And do you not remember? When I broke the five loaves, for the five thousand, how many basket full of broken pieces did you take up?” They said to him, “Twelve” “And the seven for the four thousand how many baskets full of broken pieces did you take up?” And they said to him, “And he said to them, “Do you not yet understand?”
The Gospel of the Lord.
TODAY’S REFLECTION
Warning his disciples against the leaven of the Pharisees and the leaven of Herod, Jesus reminded them to be careful not to imitate their behavior. While the Pharisees were filled with hypocrisy, always pretending to be whom they were not, Herod on his part was living a self-centered and disordered life. Indeed, the signs of these leavens are in each one of us but we must strive to do away with them and be who God wants us to be. God calls us to realize that he is ever ready to provide for our needs but we must understand that anyone with a life of hypocrisy, anyone who is self-centered, and anyone with a disordered life, will surely not see the face of God.
PERSONAL DEVOTIONAL
"But because of our sins he was wounded, beaten because of the evil we did. We are healed by the punishment he suffered, by the blows he received. Isaiah 53:5
- Be sorry for the daily sins we commit and ask for forgiveness from the Lord
- Pray meditatively with psalms 51 as you beg for forgiveness from the Lord.
Let Us Pray
Enlighten my heart O Lord that I may overcome the snares of evil that tempts me from every side, disguising as an angel of light and give me the strength to always walk the way of truth that leads to you in the name of Jesus. Amen.
Memory Verse: 2 Chronicles 7:14
Wednesday, February 15, 2023
Weekday (Wk 6)
Office: Psalter Week 2
Mass and Preface of the day
Vestment: Green
Today’s Rosary: glorious mystery
-FIRST READING-
He saw that the face of the ground was dry.
A reading from the Book of Genesis 8:6- 13.20-22
At the end of forty days Noah opened the window of the ark which he had made, and sent forth a raven; and it went to and fro until the waters were dried up from the earth. Then he sent forth a dove from him, to see if the waters had subsided from the face of the ground; but the dove found no place to set her foot, and she returned to him to the ark, for the waters were still on the face of the whole earth. So he put forth his hand and took her and brought her into the ark with him. He waited another seven days, and again he sent forth the dove out of the ark; and the dove came back to him in the evening, and behold, in her mouth a freshly plucked olive leaf, so Noah knew that the waters had subsided from the earth. Then he waited another seven days, and sent forth the dove; and she did not return to him anymore. In the six hundred and first year, in the first month, the first day of the month, the waters were dried from off the earth; and Noah removed the covering of the ark, and looked, and behold, the face of the ground was dry. Then Noah built an altar to the Lord, and took of every clean animal and of every clean bird, and offered burnt offerings on the altar. And when the Lord smelled the pleasing odour, the Lord said in his heart, “I will never again curse the ground because of man, for the imagination of man’s heart is evil from his youth; neither will I ever again destroy every living creature as I have done. While the earth remains, seedtime and harvest, cold and heat, summer and winter, day and night, shall not cease.”
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Ps 116:12-13.14- 15.18- 19 (R. cf. 1 7a)
R/. A thanksgiving sacrifice I make to you, O Lord.
Or: Alleluia.
How can I repay the Lord
for all his goodness to me?
The cup of salvation I will raise;
I will call on the name of the Lord. R/.
My vows to the Lord I will fulfil
before all his people.
How precious in the eyes of the Lord
is the death of his faithful. R/.
My vows to the LORD I will fulfil
before all his people,
in the courts of the house of the Lord,
in your midst, O Jerusalem. R/.
ALLELUIA Ephesians 1:17-18
Alleluia. May the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ enlighten the eyes of our hearts that we might know what is the hope to which he has called us. Alleluia.
-GOSPEL-
“He restored sight to the blind man and he saw everything clearly.
A reading from the holy Gospel according to Mark 8:22-26
At that time: Jesus and the disciples came to Bethsaida. And some people brought to him a blind man, and begged him to touch him. And he took the blind man by the hand, and led him out of the village; and when he had spit on his eyes and laid his hands upon him, he asked him, “Do you see anything?” And he looked up and said, “I see men; but they look like trees, walking.” Then again he laid his hands upon his eyes; and he looked intently and was restored, and saw everything clearly. And he sent him away to his home, saying, “Do not even enter the village.”
The Gospel of the Lord.
TODAY’S REFLECTION
The act of Noah, sending out the raven and the dove to see if the waters have abated is a lesson of hope and trust. His choice of a raven and a dove signifies his quest for peace, love and forgiveness. This same quest is the motivating factor for the people who bring the blind man to Jesus and beg him to touch the man see not just faintly but clearly. Peace, love and forgiveness will be far from us when we are blind to God or see him faintly, but when we allow him to restore our eyes and make us see clearly we will see ‘what hope his call holds for us’. Let us beg God to make us his instruments of peace, love and forgiveness.
PERSONAL DEVOTIONAL
"Certainly not God, who did not even keep back his own Son, but offered him for us all! He gave us His Son - Will he not also freely give us all things?" Romans 8:32
- Ask the Holy Spirit to ignite your heart with divine favor.
- Ask God to turn around that situation in your life that has become an occasion for doubt in God’s promise.
Let Us Pray
Lord, help me to place all my trust in you in times of trial, protect me from the snares of the devil who threatens to deceive me that nothing can save me from his powers and grant me the strength to always fight against his kingdom until they are utterly destroyed in the mighty name of Jesus. Amen.
Memory Verse: Psalm 145:1
Thursday, February 16, 2023
Weekday (Wk 6)
Office: Psalter Week 2
Mass and Preface of the day
Vestment: Green
Today’s Rosary: Luminous mystery
-FIRST READING-
“I set my bow in the cloud, and it shall be a sign of the covenant between me and the earth.”
A reading from the Book of Genesis 9: 1-13
God blessed Noah and his sons, and said to them, “Be fruitful and multiply, and fill the earth. The fear of you and the dread of you shall be upon every beast of the earth, and upon every bird of the air, upon everything that creeps on the ground and all the fish of the sea; into your hand they are delivered. Every moving thing that lives shall be food for you; and as I gave you the green plants, I give you everything. Only you shall not eat flesh with its life, that is, its blood. For your lifeblood I will surely require a reckoning; of every beast I will require it and of man; of every man’s brother I will require the life of man. Whoever sheds the blood of man, by man shall his blood be shed; for God made man in his own image. And you, be fruitful and multiply, bring forth abundantly on the earth and multiply in it.” Then God said to Noah and to his sons with him, “Behold, I establish my covenant with you and your descendants after you, and with every living creature that is with you, the birds, the cattle, and every beast of the earth with you, as many as came out of the ark. I establish my covenant with you, that never again shall all flesh be cut off by the waters of a flood, and never again shall there be a flood to destroy the earth.” And God said, “This is the sign of the covenant which I make between me and you and every living creature that is with you, for all future generations: I set my bow in the cloud, and it shall be a sign of the covenant between me and the earth.”
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Ps 102: 16-18.19-2J .29 and 22-23 (R. 20b)
R/. The Lord looked down from heaven to the earth.
The nations shall fear the name of the Lord,
and all the earth’s kings your glory.
When the Lord shall build up Sion,
he will appear in all his glory.
Then he will turn to the prayers of the helpless;
he will not despise their prayers. R/.
Let this be written for ages to come,
that a people yet unborn may praise the Lord;
the Lord looked down from his holy place on high,
looked down from heaven to the earth,
to hear the groans of the prisoners,
and free those condemned to die. R/.
R/. The Lord looked down from heaven to the earth.
The children of your servants shall dwell untroubled,
and their descendants established before you.
May the name of the Lord be
proclaimed in Sion, and his praise in Jerusalem,
when peoples and kingdoms are gathered
as one to offer their worship to the Lord. R/.
ALLELUIA John 6:63c.68c
Alleluia. Your words, Lord, are Spirit and life; you have the words of eternal life. Alleluia.
-GOSPEL-
“You are the Christ. The Son of man must suffer many things.”
A reading from the holy Gospel according to Mark 8:27-33
At that time: Jesus went on with his disciples, to the villages of Caesarea Philippi; and on the way he asked his disciples, “Who do men say that I am?” And they told him, “John the Baptist; and others say, Elijah; and others one of the prophets.” And he asked them, “But who do you say that I am?” Peter answered him, “You are the Christ.” And he charged them to tell no one about him. And he began to teach them that the Son of man must suffer many things, and be rejected by the elders and the chief priests and the scribes, and be killed, and after three days rise again. And he said this plainly. And Peter took him, and began to rebuke him. But turning and seeing his disciples, he rebuked Peter, and said, “Get behind me, Satan! For you are not on the side of God, but of men.”
The Gospel of the Lord.
TODAY’S REFLECTION
To begin a new world order after the flood, God blessed the new humanity represented by Noah and his family in almost the same way as he blessed our first parents in the Book of Genesis (1:28-29). God tells Noah, ‘Be fruitful and multiply, and fill the earth.’ God also makes a covenant with Noah, with the bow in the clouds to serve as sign of the covenant. This bow in the clouds is a sign of God’s bond of union with the new humanity; the old humanity having been washed away by the flood, just as the waters of baptism washes away our sins and makes us new creations. For us, therefore, the sign of the covenant is Christ himself and a firm understanding of his mission is very important. No wonder he asks his disciples their opinion of him after asking them the opinion of others. No wonder too that he rebukes Peter, calling him Satan even though he has earlier called him the ‘Rock’. The fact is that, to be the new people of God, we must be ready to know Christ and his mission of salvation which followed the path of suffering and death. Our knowledge of him will not be complete until we accept that he suffered, died and rose on the third day. Let us realize that without the cross, there can be no crown.
PERSONAL DEVOTIONAL
God did not send his son into the world to be its judge, but to be its saviour. John 3:17
- O God of infinite love and mercy, help me to live the life full of sincere love for you and my neighbour. Let my life reflect indeed that you are love.
- Pray for forgiveness for the many times you failed to show love.
Let Us Pray,
O Lord, I am very sorry that I have sinned against you, and by the help of your grace I will not sin again. Amen
Memory Verse: John 3:16
Friday, February 17, 2023
SEVEN HOLY FOUNDERS OF THE ORDER OF SERVITES (OPT MEM)
Office: Psalter Week 2
Mass of the day or Memorial
Vestment: Green/White
Today’s Rosary: Sorrowful Mystery
-FIRST READING-
“Let us go down, and there confuse their language.”
A reading from the Book of Genesis 11: 1-9
The whole earth had one language and few words. And as men migrated from the east, they found a plain in the land of Shinar and settled there. And they said to one another, “Come, let us make bricks, and burn them thoroughly.” And they had brick for stone, and bitumen for mortar. Then they said, “Come, let us build ourselves a city, and a tower with its top in the heavens, and let us make a name for ourselves, lest we be scattered abroad upon the face of the whole earth.” And the Lord came down to see the city and the tower, which the sons of men had built. And the Lord said, “Behold, they are one people, and they have all one language; and this is only the beginning of what they will do; and nothing that they propose to do will speech.” So the Lord scattered them abroad from there over the face of all the earth, and they left off building now be impossible for them. Come, let us go down, and there confuse their language, that they may not understand one another’s the city. Therefore its name was called Babel, because there Lord confused the language of all the earth; and from there the Lord scattered them abroad over the face of all the earth.
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM PSALM 33;10-11.12-13.14-15 (R.12b)
R/. Blessed the people the Lord has chosen as his heritage.
The Lord frustrates the designs of the nations;
he defeats the plans of the peoples.
The designs of the Lord stand forever,
the plans of his heart from age to age. R/.
Blessed the nation whose God is the Lord,
the people he has chosen as his heritage.
From the heavens the Lord looks forth;
he sees all the children of men. R/.
From the place where he dwells
he gazes on all the dwellers on the earth,
He who shapes the hearts of them all,
and considers all their deeds. R/.
ALLELUIA John 15:15b
Alleluia. I have called you friends, says the Lord, for all that I have heard from my Father I have made known to you. Alleluia.
-GOSPEL-
“Whoever loses his life for my sake and the Gospel’s will save it.”
A reading from the holy Gospel according to Mark 8:34-9:1
At that time: Jesus called to him the multitude with his disciples, and said to them, “If any man would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross and follow me. For whoever would have his life will lose it; and whoever loses his life for my sake and the gospel’s will save it. For what does it profit a man, to gain the whole world and forfeit his life? For what can a man give in return for his life? For whoever is ashamed of me and of my words in this adulterous and sinful generation, of him will the Son of man also be ashamed, when he comes in the glory of his Father with the holy angels.” And he said to them, “Truly, I say to you, there are some standing here who will not taste death before they see the kingdom of God come with power.”
The Gospel of the Lord.
PERSONAL DEVOTIONAL
You are Peter, and on this rock I will build my Church, and the gates of Hell shall not prevail against it.. Matthew 16:18
- Lord Jesus to do your will, is my desire, to live in you and spread your love is my life, so help me to actualize this in Jesus name”.
Let Us Pray
Prayer of Saint Francis of Assisi
Lord, make me an instrument of your peace. Where there is hatred, let me sow love. Where there is injury, pardon. Where there is doubt, faith. Where there is despair, hope. Where there is darkness, light. Where there is sadness, joy. O Divine Master, grant that I may not so much seek to be consoled as to console. To be understood as to understand, to be loved as to love. For it is in giving that we receive, it is in pardoning that we are pardoned, and it is in dying that we are born to Eternal Life. Amen.
Memory Verse: John 15:5
Saturday, February 18, 2023
BVM on Saturday
Office: Psalter Week 2
Mass and Preface of the day or BVM
Vestment: Green/White
Today’s Rosary: Joyful Mystery
Vespers 1 of the 7th Sunday of the Year
-FIRST READING-
“By faith we understand that the world was created by the word of God.”
A reading from the Letter to the Hebrews 11: 1-7
Brethren: Faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen. For by it the men of old received divine approval. By faith we understand that the world was created by the word of God, so that what is seen was made out of things which do not appear. By faith Abel offered to God a more acceptable sacrifice than Cain, through which he received approval as righteous, God bearing witness by accepting his gifts; he died, but through his faith he is still speaking. By faith Enoch was taken up so that he should not see death; and he was not found, because God had taken him. Now before he was taken he was attested as having pleased God. And without faith it is impossible to please him. For whoever would draw near to God must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who seek him. By faith Noah, being warned by God concerning events as yet unseen, took heed and constructed an ark for the saving of his household; by this he condemned the world and became an heir of the righteousness which comes by faith
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Psalm 145:2-3.4-5.10-11 (R. see 1b)
R/. I will bless your name, O Lord, forever.
I will bless you day after day,
And praise your name forever and ever.
The Lord is great and highly to be praised;
His greatness cannot be measured. R/.
Age to age shall proclaim your works,
shall declare your mighty deeds.
They will tell of your great glory and splendour,
and recount your wonderful works. R/.
R/. I will bless your name, O Lord, forever.
All your works shall thank you, O Lord,
and all your faithful ones bless you.
They shall speak of the glory of your reign,
and declare your mighty deeds. R/.
ALLELUIA Mark 9:6
Alleluia. The heavens opened, and the Father’s voice was heard: “This is my beloved Son; listen to him.” Alleluia
-GOSPEL-
“He was transfigured before them.”
A reading from the holy Gospel according to Mark 9:2-13
At that time: Jesus took with him Peter and James and John, and led them up a high mountain apart by themselves; and he was transfigured before them, and his garments became glistening, intensely white, as no fuller on earth could bleach them. And there appeared to them Elijah with Moses; and they were talking to Jesus. And Peter said to Jesus, “Master, it is well that we are here; let us make three booths, one for you and one for Moses and one for Elijah.” For he did not know what to say, for they were exceedingly afraid. And a cloud overshadowed them, and a voice came out of the cloud. “This is my beloved Son; listen to him.” And suddenly looking around they no longer saw any one with them but Jesus only. And as they were coming down the mountain, he charged them to tell no one what they had seen, until the Son of man should have risen from the dead. So they kept the matter to themselves, questioning what the rising from the dead meant. And they asked him, “Why do the scribes say that first Elijah must come?” And he said to them, “Elijah does come first to restore all things; and how is it written of the Son of man, that he should suffer many things and be treated with contempt? But I tell you that Elijah has come, and they did to him whatever they pleased, as it is written of him.”
The Gospel of the Lord.
TODAY’S REFLECTION
On mount Tabor, God confirms that, what is most important in our relationship with Jesus is to ‘listen to him’ (Mark 9:7). Listening to Jesus and following his directions are key ingredients for us Christians. As peter proposes, we may build three tents on the mountain, giving one to the law, one to the prophets, and another to the fulfillment of the laws and the prophets but if we fail to listen to Jesus our tents will be useless. What will however make us listen to him and follow him is faith. This faith is described by the author of the letter to the Hebrews as ‘the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen’ (Heb. 11:1). The examples of Abel, Enoch and Noah are placed before us as men who, though they did not understand, yet loved, trusted and obeyed God. Let us take Noah for example; he listens to God by building the ark and going into the ark at God’s command. He has no doubt as to what God was about to do; he has complete trust and obedience. Despite so much noise in our world today, we must keep making efforts to listen to God. The voice of the world may be so loud and pleasing but the voice of God even though it is still and gentle, will always be the best voice. Let us have firm faith in God, listen always to him and surely he will lead us on the right path.
PERSONAL DEVOTIONAL
"I am the vine, and you are the branches. Those who remain in me, and I in them, will bear much fruit; for you can do nothing without me" John 15:5
- Lord, do not make me use my position to work against your standards.
- Lord always remind me that cut off from you I am nothing.
Let Us Pray
O Lord, I am weak and broken, surrounded on all sides by corruption and perversion. Lord have mercy on me: protect me from my enemies who devour me, and guide me in the way of perfection. No matter what happens to me, whether it be an attack or a seduction, may my love for you protect me from falling into sin. May I live a holy life no matter what others do around me in Jesus name. Amen.
Sunday, February 19, 2023
SEVENTH SUNDAY OF THE YEAR (A)
Office – Psalter Week 3, Te Deum
V¹-, V² -, R¹ -, R² -,
Mass Proper; Gloria. Creed.
Preface of Sunday
Vestment: Green
Today’s Rosary: glorious mystery
Vespers II of the 7th Sunday of the Year
THEME OF THE SUNDAY: Be as Your Father!
It is important to link the gospel of today with the first reading which speaks of the need to be holy because God is holy. The book of Leviticus specifies the “holiness” that the Lord demands: not a show of religiosity, but love for one another. The gospel tells us that holiness consists in being like the Father . . . with all the practical consequences that flow from our being his children. The second reading replies to the objection, “But isn’t what Jesus proposes sheer madness?” Yes, it is foolishness for humans, but it is “wisdom” for God.
-FIRST READING-
“You shall love your neighbour as yourself.”
A reading from the Book of Leviticus 19: 1-2. 17—18
The Lord said to Moses, “Say to all the congregation of the sons of Israel, You shall be holy; for I the Lord your God am holy. “You shall not hate your brother in your heart, but you shall reason with your neighbour, lest you bear sin because of him. You shall not take vengeance or bear any grudge against the sons of your own people, but you shall love your neighbour as yourself: I am the Lord.”
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Psalm 103:1 -2.3-4.8. 10.12- 13 (R. 8a)
R/. The Lord is compassionate and gracious.
Bless the LORD, O my soul,
and all within me, his holy name.
Bless the Lord, O my soul,
and never forget all his benefits. R/.
It is the Lord who forgives all your sins,
who heals every one of your ills,
who redeems your life from the grave,
who crowns you with mercy and compassion. R/.
R/. The Lord is compassionate and gracious.
The Lord is compassionate and gracious,
slow to anger and rich in mercy.
He does not treat us according to our sins,
nor repay us according to our faults. R/.
As far as the east is from the west,
so far from us does he remove our transgressions.
As a father has compassion on his children,
the Lord’s compassion is on those who fear him. R/.
-SECOND READING-
“All things are yours, and you are Christ’s,’ and Christ is God’s.”
A reading from the first Letter of Saint Paul to the Corinthians (I Corinthians 3 :16-23)
Brethren: Do you not know that you are God’s temple and that God’s Spirit dwells in you? If anyone destroys God’s temple, God will destroy him. For God’s temple is holy, and that temple you are. Let no one deceive himself. If anyone among you thinks that he is wise in this age, let him become a fool that he may become wise. For the wisdom of this world is folly with God. For it is written, “He catches the wise in their craftiness,” and again, “The Lord knows that the thoughts of the wise are futile.” So let no one boast of men. For all things are yours, whether Paul or Apollos or Cephas or the world or life or death or the present or the future, all are yours; and you are Christ’s; and Christ is God’s.
The word of the Lord.
ALLELUIA 1 John 2:5
Alleluia. Whoever keeps Christ’s word, in him truly love for God is perfected. Alleluia.
-GOSPEL-
“Love your enemies.”
A reading from the holy Gospel according to Matthew 5:38-45
At that time: Jesus said to his disciples, “You have heard that it was said, ‘An eye for an eye and a tooth for a tooth. But I say to you, ‘Do not resist one who is evil. But if any one strikes you on the right cheek, turn to him the other also; and if anyone would sue you and take your coat, let him have your cloak as well; and if any one forces you to go one mile, go with him two miles. Give to him who begs from you, and do not refuse him who would borrow from you. “You have heard that it was said, ‘You shall love your neighbour and hate your enemy.’ But I say to you, Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, so that you may be sons of your Father who is in heaven; for he makes his sun rise on the evil and on the good, and sends rain on the just and on the unjust. For if you love those who love you, what reward have you? Do not even the tax collectors do the same? And if you salute only your brethren, what more are you doing than others? Do not even the Gentiles do the same? You, therefore, must be perfect, as your heavenly Father is perfect.”
The Gospel of the Lord.
PRAYER OF THE FAITHFUL
Celebrant:
God’s call to love even our enemies demands sacrifice and radical change in orientation. In confidence, we make our petitions to God for strength to live this ideal life.
FOR OUR HOLY FATHER: that his life may be a source of encouragement to the clergy in living their commitment and in the apostolic works they carry out all over the world. We pray O Lord.
FOR OUR COUNTRY: that Christ may bring to fruition our collective desire for good governance, and grant peace to our land and its people. We pray O Lord.
FOR THOSE WHO ARE LUKEWARM IN THEIR FAITH: that they may become enlightened by God and acknowledge him as their true and lasting source of happiness. We pray O Lord.
FOR THE GRACE TO LIVE THE CALL TO HOLINESS: that we may be strengthened by Christ to live holy lives, as exemplified in all that we do and say. We pray O Lord.
FOR OTHER INTENTIONS: (the sick, church projects or other activities).
FOR THE DEAD, ESPECIALLY THOSE OF OUR PARISH COMMUNITY AND FAMILY MEMBERS: that they may find eternal rest with the Lord. We pray O Lord.
We pray in silence for our private intentions.
Celebrant:
God our Father, you know us more than we know ourselves. Look upon us in your kindness as we make our prayers to you, and grant that we may always find favour in your sight. Through Christ our Lord.
R/. Amen.
PERSONAL DEVOTIONAL
The Lord is not slow to do what he has promised, as some think, instead, he is patient with you, because he does not want anyone to be destroyed, but wants all to turn away from their sins. 2 Peter 3:9
- Pray for our hearts to be softened towards one another, so that we can give and receive forgiveness readily within our families, churches and local communities and our country Nigeria.
- Pray that God will help us to seek ways to bring reconciliation where there is estrangement, restoration where there is brokenness, and comfort where there is mourning.
Let Us Pray
Lord, make me an instrument of your peace. Where there is hatred, let me sow love. Where there is injury, pardon. Where there is doubt, faith. Where there is despair, hope. Where there is darkness, light. Where there is sadness, joy. O Divine Master, grant that I may not so much seek to be consoled as to console. To be understood as to understand, to be loved as to love. For it is in giving that we receive, it is in pardoning that we are pardoned, and it is in dying that we are born to Eternal Life. Amen.
Monday, February 20, 2023
Weekday (Wk 7)
Office – Psalter Week 3
Mass and Preface of the day
Vestment: Green
Today’s Rosary: Joyful Mystery
-FIRST READING-
Wisdom was created before all things.
The beginning of the Book of Jesus, son of Sirach 1:1-10
All wisdom comes from the Lord and is with him forever. The sand of the sea, the drops of rain, and the days of eternity — who can count them? The height of heaven, the breadth of the earth, the abyss, and wisdom — who can search them out? Wisdom was created before all things, and prudent understanding from eternity. The source of wisdom is God’s word in the highest heaven, and her ways are the eternal commandments. The root of wisdom to whom has it been revealed? Her clever devices — who knows them? The knowledge of wisdom — to whom was it manifested? And her abundant experience — who has understood it? There is one who is wise, the Creator of all, the King greatly to be feared, sitting upon his throne, and ruling as God. The Lord himself created wisdom in the Holy Spirit; he saw her and apportioned her, he poured her out upon all his works. She dwells with all flesh according to his gift, and he supplied her to those who love him.
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Psalm93:1abc. 1d-2.5 (R. 1a)
R/. The Lord is king, with majesty enrobed.
The LORD is king, with majesty enrobed.
The Lord has robed himself with might,
he has girded himself with power. R/.
The world you made firm, not to be moved;
your throne has stood firm from of old.
From all eternity, O Lord, you are. R/.
R/. The Lord is king, with majesty enrobed.
Truly your decrees are to be trusted.
Holiness is fitting to your house,
O Lord, until the end of time. R/.
ALLELUIA 2 Timothy 1:10
Alleluia. Our Saviour Christ Jesus abolished death and brought life and immortality to light through the Gospel. Alleluia.
-GOSPEL-
“I believe, help my unbelief.”
A reading from the holy Gospel according to Mark 9: 14-29
At that time: [When Jesus came down the mountain with Peter and James and John] and they came to the disciples, they saw a great crowd about them, and scribes arguing with them. And immediately all the crowd, when they saw him, were greatly amazed, and ran up to him and greeted him. And he asked them, “What are you discussing with them?” And one of the crowd answered him, “Teacher, I brought my son to you, for he has a mute spirit; and wherever it seizes him, it dashes him down; and he foams and grinds his teeth and becomes rigid; and I asked your disciples to cast it out, and they were not able.” And he answered them, “O faithless generation, how long am I to be with you? How long am I to bear with you? Bring him to me.” And they brought the boy to him; and when the spirit saw him, immediately it convulsed the boy, and he fell on the ground and rolled about, foaming at the mouth. And Jesus asked his father, “How long has he had this?” And he said, “From childhood. And it has often cast him into the fire and into the water, to destroy him; but if you can do anything, have pity on us and help us.” And Jesus said to him, “If you can! All things are possible to him who believes.” Immediately the father of the child cried out and said, “I believe; help my unbelief!” And when Jesus saw that a crowd came running together, he rebuked the unclean spirit, saying to it, “You mute and deaf spirit, I command you, come out of him, and never enter him again.” And after crying out and convulsing him terribly, it came out, and the boy was like a corpse; so that most of them said, “He is dead.” But Jesus took him by the hand and lifted him up, and he arose. And when he had entered the house, his disciples asked him privately, “Why could we not cast it out?” And he said to them, “This kind cannot be driven out by anything but prayer and fasting.”
The Gospel of the Lord.
TODAY’S REFLECTION
The book of Sirach tells us that ‘before all things, wisdom was created’ and the word of God is the fountain of wisdom. Definitely, if we immerse ourselves in the word of God, we will have everlasting wisdom; for the word of God will be a lamp for our feet and a light on our path (Ps 119:105). This wisdom will be for us faith; faith that will not make us say ‘if you can ‘but know that nothing is impossible with God. Yes, the lack of faith on the part of the other disciples make is difficult for them to drive out the mute spirit in the little boy. They have forgotten that everything is possible to one who has faith and if only their faith is as little as the mustard seed, they can move mountains. The church tells us that faith is the supernatural gift that enables us to believe without doubting what God has revealed. No wonder, when the boy’s father demonstrates his faith in God saying ‘I believe, help my unbelief,’ his request is granted. Let us not be a faithless generation but let us continually seek the wisdom of God and be faithful children of God.
Blessing for the New Week
When we face attack from people or experience wickedness in their hands just because we belong to God and have been blessed by Him. We only need to look up to God and hold unto him firmly for from him shall our help come.
A fight against someone blessed by God is a fight against God and God will fight for himself and he will always win. Never be jealous of someone blessed by God or fight them, instead, rejoice with them and identify with them and you will tap from their blessings.
May this new week bring multiple blessings upon you may God keep you safe to enjoy the blessings he has bestowed upon you.
Have a splendid day and may this new week be to your favour. Amen.
Do your best my dear friend and the best shall be your portion in Jesus name. Have a blessed New Week.
God blesses whom he chooses to bless, just accept it and you will be at peace
Meditation: Exodus 1:8-22
Tuesday, February 21, 2023
Office – Psalter Week 3
Mass and Preface of the day or Memorial
Vestment: Green/White
Today’s Rosary: sorrowful mystery
Tomorrow begins the Season of Lent: The annual observance of Lent is the special season for the ascent to the holy mountain of Easter. Thorough its two-fold theme of repentance and baptism, the season of Lent disposes both the Catechumens and the Faithful to celebrate the Paschal mystery.
-FIRST READING-
“Prepare yourself for temptation.”
A reading from the Book of Sirach 2: l - 11
My son, if you come forward to serve the Lord, remain in justice and in fear, and prepare yourself for temptation. Set your heart right and be steadfast, incline your ear, and receive words of understanding, and do not be hasty in time of calamity. Await God’s patience, cling to him and do not depart, that you may be wise in all your ways. Accept whatever is brought upon you, and endure it in sorrow; in changes that humble you be patient. For gold and silver are tested in the fire, and acceptable men in the furnace of humiliation. Trust in God, and he will help you; hope in him, and he will make your ways straight. Stay in fear of him, and grow old in him. You who fear the Lord, wait for his mercy; and turn not aside, lest you fall. You who fear the Lord, trust in him, and. your reward will not fail; you who fear the Lord, hope for good things, for everlasting joy and mercy. You who fear the Lord, love him, and your hearts will be made radiant. Consider the ancient generations and see: who ever trusted in the Lord and was put to shame? Or whoever persevered in his commandments and was forsaken? Or whoever called upon him and was overlooked? For the Lord is compassionate and merciful; he forgives sins and saves in time of affliction, and he is the shield of all who seek him in truth.
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Psalm 37:3-4.18-19.27-28.39-40 (R. see 5)
R/. Commit your way to the Lord, and he will act.
Trust in the Lord and do good;
then you will dwell in the land and safely pasture.
Find your delight in the Lord,
who grants your heart’s desire. R/.
The Lord takes note of the days of the blameless;
their heritage will last forever.
They shall not be put to shame in evil days;
in time of famine they shall have their fill. R/.
R/. Commit your way to the Lord, and he will act.
Then turn away from evil and do good,
and you may abide forever;
for indeed, the Lord loves justice,
and will never forsake his faithful.
The unjust shall be wiped out forever,
and the descendants of the wicked destroyed. R/.
But from the Lord comes the salvation of the just,
their stronghold in time of distress.
The Lord helps them and rescues them,
rescues and saves them from the wicked:
because they take refuge in him. R/.
ALLELUIA Galatians 6:14
Alleluia. Far be it from me to glory except in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, by which the world has been crucified to me, and I to the world. Alleluia.
-GOSPEL-
The Son of man will be betrayed. If anyone would be first, he must be last.
A reading from the holy Gospel according to Mark 9:30-37
At that time: Jesus and his disciples went on from the mountain and passed through Galilee. And he would not have any one know it; for he was teaching his disciples, saying to them, “The Son of man will be delivered into the hands of men, and they will kill him; and when he is killed, after three days he will rise.” But they did not understand the saying, and they were afraid to ask him. And they came to Capernaum; and when he was in the house he asked them, “What were you discussing on the way?” But they were silent; for on the way they had discussed with one another who was the greatest. And he sat down and called the Twelve; and he said to them, “If anyone would be first, he must be last of all and servant of all.” And he took a child, and put him in the midst of them; and taking him in his arms, he said to them, “Whoever receives one such child in my name receives me; and whoever receives me, receives not me but him who sent me.”
The Gospel of the Lord
TODAY’S REFLECTION
Trials and tribulations are surely part of the experience of man on earth, and even more so for followers of Christ. The Book of Sirach tells us that when we come to serve the Lord, we must ‘prepare ourselves for trials’. Serving God comes with its own difficulties and problems. Indeed, the Lord does not promise us that we will be free from difficulties and problems by serving him; rather, he says, ‘if anyone wants to be a follower of mine, he must renounce himself, take up his cross and follow me. ‘Definitely so many want to run away from difficulties, so many want to be free from trials, but if we truly want to serve God, we must be ready to stand in justice and fear. What is necessary however, as we serve the Lord, is to have total trust and confidence in God. Yes, we need to trust God like a little child would trust its parents, and surely God will help us. Childlike trust will definitely help us to have the fear of God and seek his direction. No matter how many the trials or tribulations, trust in God and you will be happy.
PERSONAL DEVOTIONAL
When I was in trouble, I called to the Lord, and he answered me, save me LORD from liars and deceivers. Psalm 120:1
- Be merciful to me O Lord, for the number of times I have not operated in your standards.
- I adore you Lord and I worship you. I give you praise for it is your desire that I should not perish.
Let Us Pray
O Lord, help me to accept decisions in favour of your standard. Lord, do not make me use my position to work against your standards in the mighty name of Jesus.
Wednesday, February 22, 2023
ASH WEDNESDAY (FAST AND ABSTINENCE)
Office: Psalter Week 4 and Ordinary for Lent
Mass prop. Preface of Lent III or IV
Vestment: Violet
Today’s Rosary: The Glorious Mystery
THE SEASON OF LENT is a time for the preparation for the celebration of Easter. The liturgy prepares the catechumens for the celebration of the Paschal mystery by the various stages of Christian initiation; it also prepares the faithful, who recall their baptism and do penance in preparation for Easter (LYGN27).
The beginning of Lent is marked with the blessing and imposition of ashes on Ash Wednesday or, for pastoral reasons, on the First Sunday of Lent. The act of putting on ashes symbolizes our fragility and mortality as well as our need to be redeemed by the mercy of God.
DURING LENT, ONE OF THE FOLLOWING ACCLAMATIONS IS USED INSTEAD OF ALLELUIA AS A RESPONSE TO THE VERSE BEFORE THE GOSPEL
Glory and praise to you, O Christ.
Glory to you, O Christ, Wisdom of God the Father.
Glory to you, O Christ, Word of God.
Glory to you, O Christ, Son of the living God.
Praise and honour to you, Lord Jesus.
Praise to you, O Christ, King of eternal glory.
Great and wonderful are your works, O Lord.
Salvation, glory, and power belong to the Lord Jesus Christ.
ENTRANCE ANTIPHON Wisdom 11:24.25.27
You are merciful to all, O Lord, and despise nothing that you have made. You overlook the sins of man, to bring him to repentance, for you are the Lord our God.
The Penitential Act is omitted, and the Distribution of Ashes takes its place.
COLLECT
Grant, O Lord, that we may begin with holy fasting this campaign of Christian’s service, so that we take up battle against spiritual evils, we may be armed with weapons of self-restraint. Through our Lord.
-FIRST READING-
“Tear your hearts and not your garments.”
A reading from the Book of the Prophet Joel 2:12-18
“Even now,” says the Lord, “return to me with all your heart, with fasting, with weeping, and with mourning; and tear your hearts and not your garments.” Return to the LORD, your God, for he is gracious and merciful, slow to anger, and abounding in mercy, and repents of evil. Who knows whether he will not turn and repent, and leave a blessing behind him, a cereal offering and a drink offering for the Lord, your God? Blow the trumpet in Zion; sanctify a fast; call a solemn assembly; gather the people. Sanctify the congregation; assemble the elders; gather the children, even nursing infants. Let the bridegroom leave his room, and the bride her chamber. Between the vestibule and the altar let the priests, the ministers of the Lord, weep and say, “Spare your people, O Lord, and make not your heritage a reproach, a byword among the nations. Why should they say among the peoples, ‘Where is their God?”’ Then the Lord became jealous for his land, and had pity on his people.
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Ps 51:3-4.5-6ab.12- 13.14 and 17 (R. cf. 3a)
R/. Have mercy, O Lord, for we have sinned.
Have mercy on me, O God,
according to your merciful love;
according to your great compassion,
blot out my transgressions.
Wash me completely from my iniquity,
And cleanse me from my sin. R/.
e
My transgressions, truly I know them;
my sin is always before me.
Against you, you alone, have I sinned;
what is evil in your sight I have done. R/.
R/. Have mercy, O Lord, for we have sinned.
Create a pure heart for me, O God;
Renew a steadfast spirit within me.
Do not cast me away from your presence;
take not your holy spirit from me. R/.
Restore in me the joy of your salvation;
Sustain in me a willing spirit.
O Lord, open my lips
And my mouth shall proclaim your praise. R/.
-SECOND READING-
“Be reconciled to God. Behold, now is the acceptable time. ”
A reading from the second Letter of Saint Paul to the Corinthians, (2 Corinthians 5:20, 6:2)
Brethren: We are ambassadors for Christ, God making his appeal through us. We beg you on behalf of Christ, be reconciled to God. For our sake he made him to be sin who knew no sin, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God. Working together with him, then, we entreat you not to accept the grace of God in vain. For he says, “At the acceptable time I have listened to you, and helped you on the day of salvation.” Behold, now is the acceptable time; behold, now is the day of salvation.
The word of the Lord.
Glory and praise to you, O Christ.
Today, harden not your hearts, but listen to the voice of the Lord.
Glory and praise to you, O Christ.
-GOSPEL-
“Your Father who sees in secret will reward you.”
A reading from the holy Gospel according to Matthew (Matthew 6: 1-6, 16- 18)
At that time: Jesus said to his disciples, “Beware of practicing your piety before men in order to be seen by them; for then you will have no reward from your Father who is in heaven. “Thus, when you give alms, sound no trumpet before you, as the hypocrites do in the synagogues and in the streets, that they may be praised by men. Truly, I say to you, they have their reward. But when you give alms, do not let your left hand know what your right hand is doing, so that your alms may be in secret; and your Father who sees in secret will reward you. “And when you pray, you must not be like the hypocrites; for they love to stand and pray in the synagogues and at the street corners, that they may be seen by men. Truly, I say to you, they have their reward. But when you pray, go into your room and shut the door and pray to your Father who is in secret; and your Father who sees in secret will reward you. “And when you fast, do not look dismal, like the hypocrites, for they disfigure their faces that their fasting may be seen by men. Truly, I say to you, they have their reward. But when you fast, anoint your head and wash your face, that your fasting may not be seen by men but by your Father who is in secret; and your Father who sees in secret will reward you.”
The Gospel of the Lord.
PRAYER OF THE FAITHFUL
Celebrant:
As we begin our Lenten Journey, let us ask for the grace to be truly repentant of our sins and to embrace that life of holiness to which we have been called.
FOR THE CHURCH: that, through her ministry, many more persons will come to encounter our Lord Jesus Christ, who is the way, the truth and the life. Let us pray to the Lord.
FOR CIVIL LEADERS: that, in the discharge of their duties, they may give priority of life of the citizenry. Let us pray to the Lord.
FOR THOSE WHO ARE WEIGHED DOWN BY SIN: that, trusting in the infinite mercy of God, they may give up their sinful ways and come to experience the joy of living in Christ. Let us pray to the Lord.
FOR MEMBERS OF THIS COMMUNITY: that we may continue to experience God’s mercy and be agents of mercy to our needy brothers and sisters. Let us pray to the Lord.
FOR OTHER INTENTIONS: (the sick, church projects or other activities).
FOR THE DEAD: especially the members of our parish community and families that they may find peace in the kingdom of Our Father. We pray to the Lord.
We pray in silence for our private intentions.
Celebrant:
Lord God, grant that through our Lenten practice of prayer, fasting and almsgiving, we may be strengthened in our resolve to please you in all our ways. Through Christ our Lord.
R/. Amen.
TODAY’S REFLECTION
Ash Wednesday marks the beginning of the Lenten Season. Lent is a season in the Church’s liturgical calendar when the members are expected to be sorry for their sins, do penance, sacrifice, give alms, and intensify and enrich their prayer life. It is called Ash Wednesday because of the ash each person is expected to be marked with on the forehead, to remind us of our sinfulness and mortality. Today’s Gospel is appropriate for Lenten observances. It touches on three important religious practices, namely: almsgiving, fasting and prayer. All these practices are very important for a deeper spiritual communion. However, Christians should not be showy in observing any of these. Any form of attention-seeking behavior contradicts true piety.
True piety is secretly practicing these acts, acknowledging God who sees in secret. Desist from unnecessary attention. Be humble.
Dear Friends,
During this 40 days of Lent, we encourage you to make extra effort to attend Daily Masses, pray the Rosary and attend Stations of the Cross. Allow Our Lady to accompany you in this Forty Day Journey as you continue to pray for yourself and your family.
FACTS ABOUT LENT
In the course of today’s Mass, ashes are blessed and distributed. These are made from the olive branches or branches of other trees that were blessed the previous year.
PERSONAL DEVOTIONAL FOR LENT DAY 1
Do not just pray for yourself, pray for others who may be in need of just a slice of bread to survive today. Let your fast, supply their needs. Pray now and act immediately.
Any good you do now, will come to pay you back someday, keep doing good.
Let Us Pray
Lord Jesus, remind me of my death each day that I may live wisely. Amen.
Thursday, February 23, 2023
Thursday after Ash Wednesday
Office: Psalter Week 4 and Ordinary for Lent
Mass prop. Preface of Lent
Vestment: Violet
Today’s Rosary: Luminous Mystery
ENTRANCE
When I cried to the Lord, he heard my voice; he rescued me from those who attack me. Entrust your cares to the Lord, and he will support you.
COLLECT
Prompt our actions with your inspiration we pray, O Lord, and further them with your constant help, that all we do may always begin from you and by you be brought to completion. Through our Lord..
-FIRST READING-
“I set before you blessing and curse.”
A reading from the Book of Deuteronomy 30:15-20
Moses spoke to the people, saying, “See, I have set before you this day life and good, death and evil. If you obey the commandments of the Lord your God which I command you this day, by loving the Lord your God, by walking in his ways, and by keeping his commandments and his statutes and his ordinances, then you shall live and multiply, and the Lord your God will bless you in the land which you are entering to take possession of it. But if your heart tums away, and you will not hear, but are drawn away to worship other gods and serve them, I declare to you this day, that you shall perish; you shall not live long in the land which you are going over the Jordan to enter and possess. I call heaven and earth to witness against you this day, that I have set before you life and death, blessing and curse; therefore choose life, that you and your descendants may live, loving the Lord your God, obeying his voice, and clinging to him; for that means life to you and length of days, that you may dwell in the land which the Lord swore to your fathers, to Abraham, to Isaac, and to Jacob, to give them.”
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Psalm 1:1-2.3.4and6(R.40:5ab)
R/. Blessed the man who has placed his trust in the Lord.
Blessed indeed is the man
Who follows not the counsel of the wicked,
Nor stands in the path with sinners,
Nor abides in the company of scorners,
But whose delight is the law of the Lord,
And who ponders his law day and night. R/.
He is like a tree that is planted
Beside the flowing waters,
That yields its fruit in due season,
And whose leaves shall never fade;
and all that he does shall prosper. R/.
R/. Blessed the man who has placed his trust in the Lord.
Not so are the wicked, not so!
For they, like winnowed chaff,
Shall be driven away by the wind.
For the Lord knows the way of the just,
but the way of the wicked will perish. R/.
VERSE BEFORE THE GOSPEL Matthew 4: 17
Glory and praise to you, O Christ.
Repent, says the Lord, for the Kingdom of heaven is at hand.
Glory and praise to you, O Christ.
-GOSPEL-
“Whoever loses his life for my sake, he will save it.”
A reading from the holy Gospel according to Luke (Luke 9:22-25)
At that time: Jesus said to his disciples, “The Son of man must suffer many things, and be rejected by the elders and chief priests and scribes, and be killed, and on the third day be raised.” And he said to all, “If any man would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow me. For whoever would save his life will lose it; and whoever loses his life for my sake, he will save it. For what does it profit a man if he gains the whole world and loses or forfeits himself?”
The Gospel of the Lord.
TODAY’S REFLECTION
The greatest victory a man can have is to conquer himself. Often times we look to the external battles while the real ones lie within. The struggle with pride, lust, greed, slothfulness, envy and jealousy; all these demand some measure of decisiveness from us to choose life or death, prosperity or disaster. If we are courageous enough to live in the light of God’s ways by keeping his commandment does not add to God’s glory, instead, it helps us to live liberated from the clutches of sin and enter into the glory of God’s children, but first, deny yourself! Are you ready to do that? Chose life and you will live and increase.
PERSONAL DEVOTIONAL FOR LENT DAY 2
Joy or sadness, serenity or rancor in life depends on the choice you make. If you intend to be happy and enjoy tranquility, then you must be ready to share joy to those around you. What are you waiting for, take a bold step and resolve the matter that is causing the bitterness between you and the one you bear grudges for and your heart will be at peace.
If you are not ready to suffer something for peace to reign, then you will have no reason to complain when the fire burns and destroys.
Let Us Pray
Lord Jesus, teach me to follow the narrow way, to obey your commands, to discipline my flesh that I may gain life in the end. Amen.
Friday February 24, 2023
FRIDAY AFTER ASH WEDNESDAY
Office- Psalter Week 4 and Ordinary for Lent
Mass prop. Preface of Lent
Vestment: Violet
Today’s Rosary: The Sorrowful Mystery
ENTRANCE ANTIPHON
The Lord heard and had mercy on me; the Lord became my helper.
COLLECT
Show gracious favour, O Lord, we pray, to the works of penance. We have begun, that we may have strength to accomplish with sincerity the bodily observances we undertake. Through our Lord.
-FIRST READING-
Is such the fast that I choose?
A reading from the Book of Isaiah (Isaiah 58:1-9a)
Thus says the Lord GOD. “Cry aloud, spare not, lift up your voice like a trumpet; declare to my people their transgression, to the house of Jacob their sins. Yet they seek me daily, and delight to know my ways, as if they were a nation that did righteousness and did not forsake the ordinance of their God; they ask of me righteous judgements, they delight to draw near to God. ‘Why have we fasted, and you see it not? Why have we humbled ourselves, and you take no knowledge of it? ’Behold, in the day of your fast you seek your own pleasure, and oppress all your workers. Behold, you fast only to quarrel and to fight and to hit with wicked fist. Fasting like yours this day will not make your voice to be heard on high. Is such the fast that I choose, a day for a man to humble himself? Is it to bow down his head like a rush, and to spread sackcloth and ashes under him? Will you call this a fast, and a day acceptable to the Lord? “Is not this the fast that I choose: to loose the bonds of wickedness, to undo the thongs of the yoke, to let the oppressed go free, and to break every yoke? Is it not to share your bread with the hungry, and bring the homeless poor into your house; when you see the naked, to cover him, and not to hide yourself from your own flesh? Then shall your light break forth like the dawn, and your healing shall spring up speedily; your righteousness shall go before you, the glory of the Lord shall be your rear guard. Then you shall call, and the Lord will answer; you shall cry, and he will say, Here I am.”
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Psalm51:3-4.5-6ab.18-19(R.19bc)
R/. A broken and humbled heart, O God, you will not spurn.
Have mercy on me, O God,
according to your merciful love;
according to your great compassion,
blot out my transgressions.
Wash me completely from my iniquity,
And cleanse me from my sin. R/.
My transgressions, truly I know them;
My sin is always before me.
Against you, you alone, have I sinned;
What is evil in your sight I have done. R/.
For in sacrifice you take no delight;
Burnt offering from me would not please you.
My sacrifice to God, a broken spirit:
A broken and humbled heart,
O God, you will not spurn. R/.
VERSE BEFORE THE GOSPEL Amos 5:14
Glory and praise to you, O Christ. Seek good, and not evil, that you may live; and the Lord will be with you. Glory and praise to you, O Christ.
-GOSPEL-
“When the bridegroom is taken from them, then they will fast.”
A reading from the holy Gospel according to Matthew (Matthew 9:14-15)
At that time: The disciples of John came to Jesus, saying, “Why do we and the Pharisees fast, but your disciples do not fast?” And Jesus said to them, “Can the wedding guests mourn as long as the bridegroom is with them? The days will come, when the bridegroom is taken away from them, and then they will fast.”
The Gospel of the Lord.
TODAY’S REFLECTION
There is no doubt that fasting is a form of self-denial. It is willful refusal to eat food for the sake of a cause. Religious fasting is abstaining from food to show piety and commitment to God. It differs from fasting which some social activists could undergo to press down on their agitation. Such fasting is fasting as a protest. Some people could fast from food because of health reasons, such as some laboratory tests, and fasting to reduce obesity. Christian fasting however, should be borne out of love for God, and has to be accompanied with prayer. The disciples of John were used to fasting but were surprised that those of Jesus were not fasting; hence, they asked why they and the Pharisees fast, but not Jesus’ disciples, Jesus answered them in a dismissive way indicating a tone that there is a fundamental difference between his disciples and the rest.
PERSONAL DEVOTIONAL FOR LENT DAY 3
We have a little time to stay on this earth and if we do not make use of our opportunities in the best possible way positively, we may leave the earth sad and unfulfilled. The essence of life is not what you own or have acquired, but how well you use what you have which is given to you by God to add value, inspire, enrich and empower others positively as you do to yourself.
Today, make sure you add value to someone’s life.
Let Us Pray
Lord Jesus, save me from inferiority complex, give me the courage to stand up and do what is right at all times even if it means losing face with the crowd. Amen.
Saturday, February 25, 2023
Saturday after Ash Wednesday
Office- Psalter Week 4 and Ordinary for Lent
Vestment: Violet
Today’s Rosary: The Joyful Mystery
Vespers 1 of the First Sunday of Lent
Entrance Antiphon
Answer us, Lord, for your mercy is kind; in the abundance of your mercies, look upon us.
Collect
Almighty ever-living God, look with compassion on our weakness and ensure us your protection by stretching forth the right hand of your majesty. Through our Lord…
-FIRST READING-
“If you pour yourself out for the hungry, then shall your light rise in the darkness.”
A reading from the Book of Isaiah (Isaiah 58:9c-14)
Thus says the Lord: “If you take away from the midst of you the yoke, the pointing of the finger, and speaking wickedness, if you pour yourself out for the hungry and satisfy the desire of the afflicted, then shall your light rise in the darkness and your gloom be as the noonday. And the Lord will guide you continually, and satisfy your desire with good things, and make your bones strong; and you shall be like a watered garden, like a spring of water, whose waters do not fail. And your ancient ruins shall be rebuilt; you shall raise up the foundations of many generations; you shall be called the repairer of the breach, the restorer of streets to dwell in. “If you turn back your foot from the Sabbath, from doing your pleasure on my holy day, and call the Sabbath a delight and the holy day of the Lord honourable; if you honour it, not going your own ways, or seeking your own pleasure, or talking idly; then you shall take delight in the Lord, and I will make you ride upon the heights of the earth; I will feed you with the heritage of Jacob your father, for the mouth of the Lord has spoken.”
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Psalm 86:1-2.3-4.5-6 (R. 11ab)
R/. Teach me, O Lord, your way, So that I may walk in your truth.
Turn your ear, O Lord, and answer me,
For I am poor and needy.
Preserve my soul, for I am faithful;
save the servant who trusts in you, my God. R/.
Have mercy on me, O Lord,
For I cry to you all the day long.
Gladden the soul of your servant,
For I lift up my soul to you, O Lord. R/.
R/. Teach me, O Lord, your way, So that I may walk in your truth.
O Lord, you are good and forgiving,
Full of mercy to all who call to you.
Give ear, O Lord, to my prayer,
And attend to my voice in supplication. R/.
VERSE BEFORE THE GOSPEL Psalm95:7d- 8a
Glory and praise to you, O Christ. I have no pleasure in the death of the wicked, says the Lord, but that he turn from his way and live. Glory and praise to you, O Christ.
-GOSPEL-
“I have not come to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance.”
A reading from the holy Gospel according to Luke (Luke 5:27-32)
At that time: Jesus saw a tax collector, named Levi, sitting at the tax office; and he said to him, “Follow me.” And he left everything, and rose and followed him. And Levi made him a great feast in his house; and there was a large company of tax collectors and others sitting at table with them. And the Pharisees and their scribes murmured against his disciples, saying, “Why do you eat and drink with tax collectors and sinners?” And Jesus answered them, “Those who are well have no need of a physician, but those who are sick; I have not come to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance.”
The Gospel of the Lord.
TODAY’S REFLECTION
Living in denial is a terrible misfortune. No Christian should be there. The scribes and Pharisees in their holier than thou attitude categorized the tax collectors and others as sinners undeserving of the company of Jesus. Jesus however retorts that it is not those who are well who need the doctor, but the sick. The church is both a gallery of saints and a hospital for sinners. Am I so wrapped up in my virtue that I feel I do not need Jesus? Do I feel I do not need to go to confession? Am I resolved to be less judgemental of others who sin differently? Am I resolved to respond more promptly to the invitation of Jesus to follow him?
PERSONAL DEVOTIONAL FOR LENT DAY 4
The mouth is used for speaking and what comes out of the mouth can motivate, inspire, discourage or evil kill. If you really want to grow in your spirituality, you must really watch what you say, when you say it and where you say it. Speak positively always, you will help heal our wounded world and you will also help wounded hearts to find the healing balm they need.
Use your word today to make someone feel strong to go the extra mile in achieving more good for our world.
Do not just speak because you feel like speaking, try and check what your words will give,(life or death) before you utter them.
Let us pray
Lord Jesus, may I wholly follow you leaving sin behind. Amen.
Sunday, February 26, 2023
FIRST SUNDAY OF LENT (A)
Office- Psalter Week 1
Mass prop. Creed. Preface of Lent
Vestment: Violent
Today’s Rosary: The Glorious Mystery
RITE OF ELECTION OR ENROLLMENT:
Today the Mother Church celebrates the “Rite of Election or Enrollment of Names” for the Catechumens of Christian Initiation at the Easter Vigil. The proper prayers and intercessions “For the Election or Enrollment of Names” are to be used (cf ‘Roman Missal, Ritual Masses’) if, for pastoral reasons, it is celebrated apart from this Sunday, the proper prayer may be used with the color violet on any day permitted in the Table of Liturgical Days, the Mass of the Friday of the Fourth Week of Lent may also be used.
Other celebrations are not allowed, not even funeral Masses
Vespers II of the First Sunday of Lent
THEME OF THE SUNDAY: Temptation.
In this time of Lent, the Church invites us to reflect on temptation. The first reading tells us of the unfaithful man, the man who lets himself be seduced by evil and chooses to go against the will of God. This man destroys himself and condemns himself to unhappiness. The second reading describes the behaviour of Jesus, the obedient son of his Father. The Gospel describes the temptations that Jesus faced in his mission of salvation. Our own temptations are not very different.
-FIRST READING-
Creation of our first parents, and their sin.
A reading from the Book of Genesis 2:7-9; 3:1-7
The Lord God formed man of dust from the ground, and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life; and man became a living soul. And the Lord God planted a garden in Eden, in the east; and there he put the man whom he had formed. And out of the ground the Lord God made to grow every tree that is pleasant to the sight and good for food, the tree of life also in the midst of the garden, and the tree of the knowledge of good and evil. Now the serpent was more subtle than any other wild creature that the Lord God had made. He said to the woman, “Did God say, ‘You shall not eat of any tree of the garden’?” And the woman said to the serpent, “We may eat of the fruit of the trees of the garden; but God said, ‘You shall not eat of the fruit of the tree which is in the midst of the garden, neither shall you touch it, lest you die.”’ But the serpent said to the woman, “You will not die. For God knows that when you eat of it your eyes will be opened, and you will be like God, knowing good and evil.” So when the woman saw that the tree was good for food, and that it was a delight to the eyes, and that the tree was to be desired to make one wise, she took of its fruit and ate; and she also gave some to her husband, and he ate. Then the eyes of both were opened, and they knew that they were naked; and they sewed fig leaves together and made themselves aprons.
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Ps 51 :3-4.5-6ab.12-13.14 and 17 (R. cf. 3a)
R/. Have mercy, O Lord, for we have sinned.
Have mercy on me, O God,
according to your merciful love;
according to your great compassion,
blot out my transgressions.
Wash me completely from my iniquity,
and cleanse me from my sin. R/.
My transgressions, truly I know them;
my sin is always before me.
Against you, you alone, have I sinned;
what is evil in your sight I have done. R/.
R/. Have mercy, O Lord, for we have sinned.
Create a pure heart for me, O God;
renew a steadfast spirit within me.
Do not cast me away from your presence;
take not your holy spirit from me. R/.
Restore in me the joy of your salvation;
sustain in me a willing spirit.
O Lord, open my lips
and my mouth shall proclaim your praise. R/.
-SECOND READING-
“Where sin has abounded, grace has abounded all the more.”
A reading from the Letter of Saint Paul to the Romans 5:12- 19
Brethren: As sin came into the world through one man and death through sin, and so death spread to all men because all men sinned— sin indeed was in the world before the law was given, but sin is not counted where there is no law. Yet death reigned from Adam to Moses, even over those whose sins were not like the transgression of Adam, who was a type of the one who was to come. But the free gift is not like the trespass. For if many died through one man’s trespass, much more have the grace of God and the free gift in the grace of that one man Jesus Christ abounded for many. And the free gift is not like the effect of that one man’s sin. For the judgement following one trespass brought condemnation, but the free gift following many trespasses brings justification. If, because of one man’s trespass, death reigned through that one man, much more will those who receive the abundance of grace and the free gift of righteousness reign in life through the one man Jesus Christ. Then as one man’s trespass led to condemnation for all men, so one man’s act of righteousness leads to acquittal and life for all men. For as by one man’s disobedience many were made sinners, so by one man’s obedience many will be made righteous.
The word of the Lord.
Or shorter:
A reading from the Letter of Saint Paul to the Romans 5:12.17- 19
Brethren: As sin came into the world through one man and death through sin, and so death spread to all men because all men sinned. If, because of one man’s trespass, death reigned through that one man, much more will those who receive the abundance of grace and the free gift of righteousness reign in life through the one man Jesus Christ. Then as one man’s trespass led to condemnation for all men, so one man’s act of righteousness leads to acquittal and life for all men. For as by one man's disobedience many were made sinners, so by one man’s obedience many will be made righteous.
The word of the Lord.
VERSE BEFORE THE GOSPEL Matthew 4:4b
Glory and praise to you, O Christ. Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceeds from the mouth of God. Glory and praise to you, O Christ.
-GOSPEL-
Jesus fasted forty days and was tempted.
A reading from the holy Gospel according to Matthew 4: 1-11
At that time: Jesus was led up by the Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted by the devil. And he fasted forty days and forty nights, and afterwards he was hungry. And the tempter came and said to him, “If you are the Son of God, command these stones to become loaves of bread.” But he answered, “It is written, ‘Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceeds from the mouth of God.”’ Then the devil took him to the holy city, and set him on the pinnacle of the temple, and said to him, “If you are the Son of God, throw yourself down; for it is written, ‘He will give his angels charge of you,’ and ‘On their hands they will bear you up, lest you strike your foot against a stone.”’ Jesus said to him, “Again it is written, ‘You shall not tempt the Lord your God.”’ Again, the devil took him to a very high mountain, and showed him all the kingdoms of the world and the glory of them; and he said to him, “All these I will give you, if you will fall down and worship me.” Then Jesus said to him, “Be gone, Satan! for it is written, ‘You shall worship the Lord your God and him only shall you serve.”’ Then the devil left him, and behold, angels came and ministered to him.
The Gospel of the Lord.
PRAYER OF THE FAITHFUL
Celebrant:
Our Lord Jesus Christ was tempted by the evil one but did not fall into sin. Let us ask him to give us the grace to resist the temptations that come our way.
FOR THE CHURCH: that, through her mission and ministry in the world, the Gospel message of salvation brought by Jesus Christ may reach every person on earth. Let us pray to the Lord.
FOR THOSE IN GOVERNMENT: that they may never be deceived by the empty promises that power and earthly glory offer, but keep their hearts focused on the glories of heaven. Let us pray to the Lord.
FOR THOSE IN NEED: that, through our acts of kindness, the difficulties experienced by the poor, the homeless, the unemployed, the forgotten, and the oppressed may be attended to during this season of grace. Let us pray to the Lord.
FOR OUR COMMUNITY: that, during this Lenten season and beyond, God may strengthen our will and grant us the grace to be able to overcome those temptations we face in our daily lives. Let us pray to the Lord.
FOR OTHER INTENTIONS: (the sick, church projects or other activities).
FOR THE DEAD: especially the members of our parish community and families that they may find peace in the kingdom of Our Father. We pray to the Lord.
We pray in silence for our private intentions.
Celebrant:
Father, your Son Jesus Christ showed us how to overcome temptation. Fill us with grace to be faithful to you in all things this Lenten season and all through our lives. Through Christ our Lord.
R/. Amen.
TODAY’S REFLECTION
What do we live on? What is it that sustains our life today and instill in us the hope for a better future? The temptation narrative invites us to look at our life from God's perspective and not that of the tempter. What does God want from me in my concrete life situation today? Certainly He does not want me to get hooked on miracles or to pay allegiance to demonic forces, or to demonstrate or be enticed by demonstrations of putative powers. If He had succumbed to the tempter, Jesus would have betrayed and abandoned His mission. So what do we live on? Jesus' response is instructive. Our life is dependent on God whether or not we are in need. God does not allow us to be tempted beyond our strength. Let us learn to trust in Him - and in Him alone. He is enough for us.
PERSONAL DEVOTIONAL FOR LENT
If your waking up is not by your power, then, whenever you wake up you must go on your knees and acknowledge the greatness of the one who make you not only to wake up, but gives you the power to run around.
Let Us Pray
Heavenly Father, I give you thanks from the depth of my heart for giving me this day. It is only by your power that it is possible for me to wake up from sleep. May all glory and honour be to your name forever. Amen.
Lord Jesus Christ, take all my freedom, my memory, my understanding, and my will. All that I have and cherish you have given me. I surrender it all to be guided by your will. Your love and your grace are wealth enough for me. Give me these, Lord Jesus, and I ask for nothing more. Amen.
I offer myself to you, lead me in all I will do. Bless and favour the work of my hands so that I will be fruitful. Give me the grace to seek holiness in all I do. Help me to love my neighbour as myself and to be kind to them always.
Through my actions may the hungry have something to eat, the thirsty have something to drink, the naked have something to wear, the sick and those in prison get the consolation they desire. Amen.
Dear friends, work hard and do your best in all your activities today, put your trust in the Lord for He will see you through. May this day be a blessed and favourable one for you in Jesus name. Amen.
Monday, February 27, 2023
ST GREGORY NAREK, AB. D. (Opt. Commem.)
Office- Psalter Week 1
Mass prop. Preface of Lent
Vestment: Violet
Today’s Rosary: The Joyful Mystery
-FIRST READING-
“In righteousness shall you judge your neighbor.”
A reading from the Book of Leviticus (Leviticus 19: 1-2. 11- 18)
The LORD said to Moses, “Say to all the congregation of the sons of Israel, you shall be holy; for I the Lord your God am holy. “You shall not steal, nor deal falsely, nor lie to one another. And you shall not swear by my name falsely, and so profane the name of your God: I am the Lord. “You shall not oppress your neighbour or rob him. The wages of a hired servant shall not remain with you all night until the morning. You shall not curse the deaf or put a stumbling block before the blind, but you shall fear your God: I am the Lord. “You shall do no injustice in judgement; you shall not be partial to the poor or defer to the great, but in righteousness shall you judge your neighbour. You shall not go up and down as a slanderer among your people, and you shall not stand forth against the life of your neighbour: I am the Lord. “You shall not hate your brother in your heart, but you shall reason with your neighbour, lest you bear sin because of him. You shall not take vengeance or bear any grudge against the sons of your own people, but you shall love your neighbour as yourself: I am the Lord.”
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Psalm 19:8.9.10.15 (R. sec john 6:63c)
R/. Your words, O Lord, are Spirit and life.
The law of the Lord is perfect;
it revives the soul.
The decrees of the Lord are steadfast;
they give wisdom to the simple. R/.
The precepts of the Lord are right;
they gladder the heart.
The command of the Lord is clear;
it gives light to the eyes. R/.
R/. Your words, O Lord, are Spirit and life.
The fear of the Lord is pure,
abiding forever.
The judgements of the Lord are true;
they are, all of them, just. R/.
May the spoken words of my mouth,
the thoughts of my heart,
win favour in your sight, O Lord,
my rock and my redeemer! R/.
VERSE BEFORE THE GOSPEL 2 Corinthians 6:2b
Glory and praise to you, O Christ. Behold, now is the acceptable time, behold, now is the day of salvation. Glory and praise to you, O Christ.
-GOSPEL-
“As you did it to one of the least of these my brethren, you did it to me.”
A reading from the holy Gospel according to Matthew (Matthew 25:31-46)
At that time: Jesus said to his disciples, “When the Son of man comes in his glory, and all the angels with him, then he will sit on his glorious throne. Before him will be gathered all the nations, and he will separate them one from another as a shepherd separates the sheep from the goats, and he will place the sheep at his right hand, but the goats at the left. “Then the King will say to those at his right hand, ‘Come, O blessed of my father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world; for I was hungry and you gave me food, I was thirsty and you gave me drink, I was a stranger and you welcomed me, I was naked and you clothed me, I was sick and you visited me, I was in prison and you came to me. ’Then the righteous will answer him, ‘Lord, when did we see you hungry and feed you, or thirsty and give you drink? And when did we see you a stranger and welcome you, or naked and clothe you? And when did we see you sick or in prison and visit you?’ And the King will answer them, ‘Truly, I say to you, as you did it to one of the least of these my brethren, you did it to me.’ “Then he will say to those at his left hand, ‘Depart from me, you cursed, into the eternal fire prepared for the devil and his angels; for I was hungry and you gave me no food, I was thirsty and you gave me no drink, I was a stranger and you did not welcome me, naked and you did not clothe me, sick and in prison and you did not visit me.’ “Then they also will answer, ‘Lord, when did we see you hungry or thirsty or a stranger or naked or sick or in prison, and did not minister to you?’ Then he will answer them, ‘Truly, I say to you, as you did it not to one of the least of these, you did it not to me. ’And they will go away into eternal punishment, but the righteous into eternal life.”
The Gospel of the Lord.
TODAY’S REFLECTION
In the sixth Station of the Cross, Jesus speaks: “Can you be brave enough to wipe my bloody face?” “Where is your face?” you may ask, and I will answer “at home, at work, in the streets, in market corners, wherever suffering exists, my face is there and there I look for you to wipe away my blood and tears.”
A great man once commented: “The amount of respect I give to people is not based on how high they carry themselves but how they treat those lower than they are.” How do you treat people lower than you? How do you treat those who cannot measure up to your status, your money, your intelligence, your position? Whatsoever you do to the least (the smallest, the unimportant, the poorest, the minority), that you do unto me.
The book of Leviticus tells us: “You shall not hate your brother in your heart, but you shall reason with your neighbour, lest you bear sin because of him…but you shall love your neighbour as yourself.” Leviticus 19:15-18.
Are you finding it difficult to overcome hatred in your heart for a brother or sister? Then try to see the face of Jesus in that particular brother or sister. Realize that whatever it is that you are planning against him or her, it is Jesus himself you are planning against. The moment you start seeing Jesus in your enemies, your heart begins to melt towards them. You no longer feel like striking back at them but praying for their deliverance from captivity. The only way you can love your enemies as Jesus teaches us is by seeing the face of Jesus in your enemies.
The book of Proverbs adds: “If your enemy is hungry, give him bread to eat; and if he is thirsty, give him water to drink; for you will heap coals of fire on his head, and the LORD will reward you.” Proverbs 25:21-22.
Blessing for the New Week
Heavenly Father, I give you thanks from the depth of my heart for giving me this day. It is only by your power that it is possible for me to wake up from sleep. May all glory and honour be to you name forever. Amen.
I offer myself to you, lead me in all I will do. Bless and favour the work of my hands so that I will be fruitful. Give me the grace to seek holiness of in all I do. Help me to love my neighbour as myself and to be kind to them always.
Through my actions may the hungry have something to eat, the thirsty have something to drink, the naked have something to wear, the sick and those in prison get the consolation they desire. Amen.
Work hard and put your trust in the Lord for He will see you through. May this new week be a blessed and favourable one for you. Amen. Be kind to Others!
PERSONAL DEVOTIONAL FOR LENT DAY 6
When a lecturer gives you an insight where he will set his exam questions from and you still fail the exams, it simply means that you did not do your homework well. The whole of Matthew chapter 25 is an expo from Jesus to us. Therefore, you have no reason to fail the exam and gain admission into the kingdom of God.
Today, let your actions feed the hungry, give water to the thirsty, clothe the naked, give succour and hope to the sick and those in prison.
Let Us Pray
Lord Jesus, I love you, all I have is yours, yours I am and yours I want to be, help me to see you, love you and treat you well in my neighbours. Amen.
Tuesday, February 28, 2023
Weekday of Lent (1)
Office- Psalter Week 1
Mass prop. Preface of Lent
Vestment: Violet
Today’s Rosary: The Sorrowful Mystery
-FIRST READING-
“My word shall accomplish that which I intend.”
A reading from the Book of Isaiah (Isaiah 55:10-11)
Thus says the Lord: “As the rain and the snow come down from heaven, and do not return there but water the earth, making it bring forth and sprout, giving seed to the sower and bread to the eater, so shall my word be that goes forth from my mouth; it shall not return to me empty, but it shall accomplish that which I intend, and prosper in the thing for which I sent it.”
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Ps 34:4-5.6-7.16-17.18-19 (R. see 18b)
R/. The Lord rescues them in all their distress.
Glorify the Lord with me;
together let us praise his name.
I sought the Lord, and he answered me;
from all my terrors he set me free. R/.
Look towards him and be radiant;
let your faces not be abashed.
This lowly one called; the Lord heard,
and rescued him from all his distress. R/.
R/. The Lord rescues them in all their distress.
The Lord turns his eyes to the just,
and his ears are open to their cry.
The Lord turns his face against the wicked
to destroy their remembrance from the earth. R/.
When the just cry out, the Lord hears,
and rescues them in all their distress.
The Lord is close to the broken-hearted;
those whose spirit is crushed he will save. R/.
VERSE BEFORE THE GOSPEL Matthew 4:4b
Glory and praise to you, O Christ. Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceeds from the mouth of God. Glory and praise to you, O Christ.
-GOSPEL-
“Pray then like this.”
A reading from the holy Gospel according to Matthew (Matthew 6:7—15)
At that time: Jesus said to his disciples, “In praying do not heap up empty phrases as the Gentiles do; for they think that they will be heard for their many words. Do not be like them, for your Father knows what you need before you ask him. Pray then like this: Our Father who art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name. Thy kingdom come, thy will be done, On earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread; And forgive us our trespasses, As we forgive those who trespass against us; And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For if you forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father also will forgive you; but if you do not forgive men their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses.”
The Gospel of the Lord.
TODAY’S REFLECTION
The effectiveness of prayer is not a matter of the number of words used, but the faith with which every word is spoken. The book of Hebrews tells us: “Without faith it is impossible to please God. For whoever would draw near to God must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who seek him.” Hebrews 11:6.
Prayer must go with action, whatever I ask from God, I too must be willing to give to my fellow brothers and sister. Prayer is a Cross; the vertical line depicts our reception from God while the horizontal line depicts our sharing with one another. Prayer must benefit others. I dare not ask God for divine protection while I wish death for someone else. The divine protection I plan to receive from God must extend to people otherwise my prayer is null and void.
As part of his Sermon on the Mount in Matthew 6, Jesus warns us about talking too much or repeating ourselves over and over again when we pray. Before ever we set out to pray, we must first assure ourselves that God is more than able to grant our requests. We must remind ourselves of what God has done in the past and face the truth that no situation is beyond God. In this regard, in the book of Isaiah, God assures us that just as the rain drop from heaven and never returns until it has watered the earth, God’s words can never return empty. Isaiah 55:10-11.
PERSONAL DEVOTIONAL FOR LENT DAY 6
One of the qualities of a good Christian is the virtue of honesty, and if we are going to be like Jesus to all men, we must grow in honesty. To be honest is to be truthful and fair in your dealings with others and not to be fake. Do not pretend to be who you are not. If you let the world creep into your mind and space, you can lose your ability to be honest and you will become someone else from who God has made you to be.
Start today to train yourself in honest acts, and with time it will become part of you and you can inspire the same passion in others.
Let Us Pray
O Lord, grant me the grace to pray well according to your divine will in Jesus name. Amen
Wednesday March 1, 2023
Weekday of Lent (1)
Office- Psalter Week 1
Mass prop. Preface of Lent
Vestment: Violet
Today’s Rosary: The Glorious Mystery
-FIRST READING-
The Ninevites turned from their evil way.
A reading from the Book of the Prophet Jonah 3:1-10
The word of the Lord came to Jonah, saying, “Arise, go to Nineveh, that great city, and proclaim to it the message that I tell you.” So Jonah arose and went to Nineveh, according to the word of the Lord. Now Nineveh was an exceedingly great city, three days’ journey in breadth. Jonah began to go into the city, going a day’s journey. And he cried, “Yet forty days, and Nineveh shall be overthrown!” And the people of Nineveh believed God; they proclaimed a fast, and put on sackcloth, from the greatest of them to the least of them. Then tidings reached the king of Nineveh, and he arose from his throne, removed his robe, and covered himself with sackcloth, and sat in ashes. And he made proclamation and published through Nineveh, “By the decree of the king and his nobles: Let neither man nor beast, herd nor flock, taste anything; let them not feed, or drink water, but let man and beast be covered with sackcloth, and let them cry mightily to God; yes, let everyone turn from his evil way and from the violence which is in his hands. Who knows, God may yet repent and turn from his fierce anger, so that we perish not?” When God saw what they did, how they turned from their evil way, God repented of the evil which he had said he would do to them; and he did not do it.
The Word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Psalm 51:3-4.12-13.18-19 (R. 19b)
R/. A broken and humbled heart, O God, you will not spurn.
Have mercy on me, O God,
according to your merciful love;
according to your great compassion,
blot out my transgressions.
Wash me completely from my iniquity,
and cleanse me from my sin. R/.
Create a pure heart for me, O God;
renew a steadfast spirit within me.
Do not cast me away from your presence;
take not your holy spirit from me. R/.
R/. A broken and humbled heart, O God, you will not spurn.
For in sacrifice you take no delight;
burnt offering from me would not
please you.
My sacrifice to God, a broken spirit:
a broken and humbled heart,
O God, you will not spurn. R/.
VERSE BEFORE THE GOSPEL Joel 2:12-13
Glory and praise 'to you, O Christ.
Even now, says the Lord, return to me with all your heart, for I am gracious and merciful.
Glory and praise to you, O Christ.
-GOSPEL-
“No sign shall be given to this generation except the sign of Jonah.”
A reading from the holy Gospel according to Luke (Luke 11 :29-32)
At that time: When the crowds were increasing, Jesus began to say, “This generation is an evil generation; it seeks a sign, but no sign shall be given to it except the sign of Jonah. For as Jonah became a sign to the men of Nineveh, so will the Son of man be to this generation. The queen of the South will arise at the judgement with the men of this generation and condemn them; for she came from the ends of the earth to hear the wisdom of Solomon, and behold, something greater than Solomon is here. The men of Nineveh will arise at the judgement with this generation and condemn it; for they repented at the preaching of Jonah, and behold, something greater than Jonah is here.”
The Gospel of the Lord.
TODAY’S REFLECTION
The entire book of Jonah is for me a story of God’s unending faith in humanity; the fact that God does not give up on the creature he made; the fact that God is ever ready to give us a second chance again and again. God could have simply destroyed the Ninevites but he gave them a second chance by sending Jonah to them. Jonah himself tried to escape from God but God caught him, brought him back and gave him another chance. Jonah wasn’t even qualified as a messenger of God yet this irresponsible-runaway- preacher became instrumental to the salvation of an entire city.
Do not conclude about yourself based on what you see now, develop a new vision for yourself, call yourself a Saint and start working on yourself, begin to make efforts, do something about that which you do not like about you, ask for help, open the roof of houses like the four men who brought their paralytic to Jesus, talk to someone today as to how to come out of your spiritual captivity. You see, the point is: God wants to see the efforts you are making. At times, like these people, we judge ourselves based on surface appearances; we consider ourselves good for nothing because of what our physical eyes can carry. We lack faith to realize that we have God inside us; that we are capable of much more than we think. We see the son-of-a-carpenter in ourselves but we don’t believe in the Saint we could be. Never judge a book by its cover. Never conclude about yourself based on your past; don’t give up on yourself, keep believing, keep being positive; keep making efforts.
PERSONAL DEVOTIONAL FOR LENT, DAY 7
That you are a boss to someone at home, office or in the shop, is not a guarantee to talk to them as if they are not human beings like yourself.
Be empathic even when you discipline or correct others. Do not use denigrate or use derogative words on them. Become a better person and not to belittle others.
Today, try to speak words of encouragement to those that are your subordinates or anyone who comes in contact with you. It will help their self-esteem and you must have done a good job that will merit you a smile and thumbs up from the Lord.
Thursday March 2, 2023
Weekday of Lent (1)
Office- Psalter Week 1
Mass prop. Preface of Lent
Vestment: Violet
Today’s Rosary: The Luminous Mystery
-FIRST READING-
I have no helper but you, Lord.
A reading from the Book of Esther 14:1.3-4.11.13-14
In those days: Esther the queen, seized with deathly anxiety, fled to the Lord. And she lay on the earth together with all her maid- servants, from morning until evening, and said: “God of Abraham, God of Isaac, and God of Jacob, blessed are you; help me, who am alone and have no helper but you, for my danger is in my hand. I have heard from the books of my ancestors that you liberate all those who are pleasing to you, O Lord, until the very end. And now, assist me, who am all alone, and have no one but you, O Lord, my God. Come to my aid, for I am an orphan. Put eloquent speech in my mouth before the lion, and turn his heart to hate the man who is fighting against us, so that there may be an end of him and those who agree with him. But save us from the hand of our enemies; turn our mourning into gladness and our affliction into well-being.”
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Psalm 138:1-2a.2bcd-3.7d-8 (R. 3a)
R/. On the day I called, you answered me, O Lord.
I thank you, Lord, with all my heart;
you have heard the words of my mouth.
In the presence of the angels I praise you.
I bow down toward your holy temple. R/.
I give thanks to your name
for your merciful love and your faithfulness.
You have exalted your name and your promise over all.
On the day I called, you answered me;
you increased the strength of my soul. R/.
R/. On the day I called, you answered me, O Lord.
With your right hand you save me;
the Lord will accomplish this for me.
O Lord, your merciful love is eternal;
discard not the work of your hands. R/.
VERSE BEFORE THE GOSPEL Psalm 51:10a. 12a
Glory and praise to you, O Christ.
Create in me a clean heart, O God; restore to me the joy of your salvation.
Glory and praise to you, O Christ.
-GOSPEL-
“Everyone who asks receives.”
A reading from the holy Gospel according to Matthew (Matthew 7: 7 - 12)
At that time: Jesus said to his disciples, “Ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and it will be opened to you. For every one who asks receives, and he who seeks finds, and to him who knocks it will be opened. Or what man of you, if his son asks him for bread, will give him a stone? Or if he asks for a fish, will give him a serpent? If you then, who are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father who is in heaven give good things to those who ask him! So whatever you wish that men would do to you, do so to them; for this is the law and the prophets.
The Gospel of the Lord
TODAY’S REFLECTION
As a reciprocal, communicative event, prayer is an expression of our trustful relationship with God, it is predicated on God's love and fidelity to His creation, His care and His providence. In her 'mortal peril" Esther presents herself to God with total self-abandon: "I am alone and have no one but You, Lord. “In the Gospel, Jesus encourages us to dare to present ourselves and our needs to God (ask, seek, knock), trusting that 'God gives good things to those who ask Him!, What God gives in response to our prayers is what is good for us - and He alone knows what is ultimately good for us. God does not always give us what we want, but what we need - and He knows what we really need.
PERSONAL DEVOTIONAL FOR LENT DAY 8:
It is always very challenging to acknowledge one’s fault and say “I am sorry” when you have done wrong and offended God and your fellow human beings. However, that is the starting point in our process of reconciliation and healing.
To humble yourself to say that you are sorry and you mean it from the depth of your heart is a simple way to start afresh.
Today, do not be too proud or ashamed to use the word 'I am sorry' even when the person you have offended is younger than you. Say it, mean it and heal the wounds of broken relationships.
Let Us Pray
Dear Jesus my shepherd, give me courage to overcome my fears, to stand firm in my faith, to live in accordance with your word, to walk the path of truth and love even when it is dangerous. Grant me courage to have dogged trust in your care and protection over me even in the midst of darkest situation.
Friday March 3, 2023
Weekday of Lent (1)
Office- Psalter Week 1
Mass prop. Preface of Lent
Vestment: Violet
Today’s Rosary: The Sorrowful Mystery
-FIRST READING-
“Have I any pleasure in the death of the wicked, and not rather that he should turn from his way and live?”
A reading from the Book of the Prophet Ezekiel (Ezekiel 18:21-28)
Thus says the Lord God: “If a wicked man turns away from all his sins which he has committed and keeps all my statutes and does what is lawful and right, he shall surely live; he shall not die. None of the transgressions which he has committed shall be remembered against him; for the righteousness which he has done he shall live. Have I any pleasure in the death of the wicked, says the Lord God, and not rather that he should turn from his way and live? But when a righteous man turns away from his righteousness and commits iniquity and does the same abominable things that the wicked man does, shall he live? None of the righteous deeds which he has done shall be remembered; for the treachery of which he is guilty and the sin he has committed, he shall die. Yet you say, ‘The way of the Lord is not just. ’ Hear now, O house of Israel: Is my way not just? Is it not your ways that are not just? When a righteous man turns away from his righteousness and commits iniquity, he shall die for it; for the iniquity which he has committed he shall die. Again, when a wicked man turns away from the wickedness he has committed and does what is lawful and right, he shall save his life. Because he considered and turned away from all the transgressions which he had committed, he shall surely live, he shall not die.”
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Psalm 130:1-2.3-4.5-7a.7bc-8 (R. 3)
R/. If you, O Lord, should mark iniquities, Lord, who could stand?
Out of the depths I cry to you,
O Lord; Lord, hear my voice!
O let your ears be attentive
to the sound of my pleading. R/.
If you, O Lord, should mark iniquities,
Lord, who could stand?
But with you is found forgiveness,
that you may be revered. R/.
R/. If you, O Lord, should mark iniquities, Lord, who could stand?
I long for you, O Lord,
my soul longs for his word.
My soul hopes in the Lord
more than watchmen for daybreak.
More than watchmen for daybreak,
let Israel hope for the Lord. R/.
For with the Lord there is mercy,
in him is plentiful redemption.
It is he who will redeem Israel
from all its iniquities. R/.
VERSE BEFORE THE GOSPEL Ezekiel 18:31
Glory and praise to you, O Christ.
Cast away from you all the transgressions which you have committed, says the Lord, and get yourselves a new heart and a new spirit.
Glory and praise to you, O Christ.
-GOSPEL-
Go first and be reconciled to your brother.
A reading from the holy Gospel according to Matthew (Matthew 5:20-26)
At that time: Jesus said to his disciples, “Unless your righteousness exceeds that of the scribes and Pharisees, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven. You have heard that it was said to the men of old, ‘You shall not kill; and whoever kills shall be liable to judgement. ’ But I say to you that everyone who is angry with his brother shall be liable to judgement; whoever insults his brother shall be liable to the council, and whoever says, ‘You fool! ’ shall be liable to the hell of fire. So if you are offering your gift at the altar, and there remember that your brother has something against you, leave your gift there before the altar and go; first be reconciled to your brother, and then come and offer your gift. Make friends quickly with your accuser, while you are going with him to court, lest your accuser hand you over to the judge, and the judge to the guard, and you be put in prison; truly I say to you, you will never get out till you have paid the last penny.”
The Gospel of the Lord.
TODAY’S REFLECTION
The most difficult word in the Bible is forgive. If we are to be very sincere with ourselves, we would realise that forgiveness (reconciliation with people who have something against us) is easier said than done. Even though we pray the Lord’s Prayer every day, only one line rings a bell in us: “Give us this day our daily bread.” We never pause to meditate on the line that says: “as we forgive those who trespass against us.” We so gloss over this line that we do not even think it is part of the “Our Father.” Mind you, we do not pray: “as we plan to forgive…” or “as we hope to forgive…”. What we pray is “as we forgive…” This means each time we pray with un-forgiveness, hatred or bitterness still in our hearts, we are lying to God. We are claiming to have done something when we haven’t done it. No wonder Jesus teaches in Matthew 5:23 that we should not even come to God to offer our gifts if our hearts are not completely clean from hate. Reconciliation for Jesus is more important than offertory. I may be the highest donor in church, the best singer or the best preacher but if there are still people I am quarrelling with, my worship of God is corrupt.
“How do I forgive?” you might ask. The book of Ezekiel 18:21-25 contains a clue. The prophet tells us how God behaves. God does not relate with us according to our past! God does not keep records of our past whether be good or bad. God is a God of this moment. God is able to forgive us because he constantly dies to the past. In other words, if we are to forgive, we must develop the habit of dying every moment to our past. This is not easy but with a little practice, it is possible.
Die to the Past every minute, forgive to make your heart cleaner and shining so that there is room for God to still enter and speak to you, let go; we brought nothing to this world, we shall leave with nothing. If I refuse to let go now, my death will force me to let go so why wait till then? Let go and let God take care of things.
PERSONAL DEVOTIONAL FOR LENT DAY 9
We can get angry as human beings and people can upset us because of their attitude. However, if you do not take hold of yourself and treat the matter there and then and let it go, you may end up hurting yourself the more when you harbor the anger in your heart and it breeds bitterness which if not rooted out will get to the level of deep seated desire for revenge.
Anger is like a wound on the body, which if not treated could get infected and festers.
Today, try and work on your temper and calm down even when things are not going well.
This will help you to address the matter in a mature way than opening your mouth in anger and saying things you will come to regret later. Please Calm Down!
Let us Pray:
Lord Jesus, teach me to forgive so that I may stop telling lies each time I pray the prayer you taught us to pray.
Saturday March 4, 2023
Office- Psalter Week 1
Mass prop. Preface of Lent
Vestment: Violet
Today’s Rosary: The Joyful Mystery
Vespers 1 of the 2nd Sunday of Lent
St Casimir
-FIRST READING-
“You shall be a people holy to the Lord your God.”
A reading from the Book of Deuteronomy (Deuteronomy 26: 16-19)
Moses spoke to the people, saying: “This day the Lord your God commands you to do these statutes and ordinances; you shall therefore be careful to do them with all your heart and with all your soul. You have declared this day concerning the Lord that he is your God, and that you will walk in his ways, and keep his statutes and his commandments and his ordinances, and will obey his voice; and the Lord has declared this day concerning you that you are a people for his own possession, as he has promised you, and that you are to keep all his commandments, that he will set you high above all nations that he has made, in praise and in fame and in honour, and that you shall be a people holy to the Lord your God, as he has spoken.”
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Psalm 119: 1-2.4-5.7-5 (R.1b)
R/. Blessed are those who walk in the law of the Lord!
Blessed are those whose way is blameless,
who walk in the law of the Lord!
Blessed are those who keep his decrees!
With all their hearts they seek him. R/.
You have laid down your precepts
to be carefully kept.
May my ways be firm
in keeping your statutes. R/.
R/. Blessed are those who walk in the law of the Lord!
I will thank you with an upright heart,
as I learn your just judgements.
I will keep your statutes;
do not ever forsake me. R/.
VERSE BEFORE THE GOSPEL 2 Corinthians 6:2b
Glory and praise to you, O Christ.
Behold, now is the acceptable time, behold, now is the day of salvation.
Glory and praise to you, O Christ.
-GOSPEL-
“Be perfect as your heavenly Father is perfect.”
A reading from the holy Gospel according to Matthew 5:43-45
At that time: Jesus said to his disciples, “You have heard that it was said, ‘You shall love your neighbour and hate your enemy.’ But I say to you, Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, so that you may be sons of your Father who is in heaven; for he makes his sun rise on the evil and on the good, and sends rain on the just and on the unjust. For if you love those who love you, what reward have you? Do not even the tax collectors do the same? And if you salute only your brethren, what more are you doing than others? Do not even the Gentiles do the same? You, therefore, must be perfect, as your heavenly Father is perfect.”
The Gospel of the Lord.
TODAY’S REFLECTION
We say we are Christians, yet we fight each other just as non-believers do, sometimes even bloodier than non-believers. We drag ourselves to law courts. We even present our cases before traditional rulers some of whom do not share our faith. In truth, if the people of that community at Antioch behaved like us, they wouldn’t have been called Christians but simply church-goers.
The greatest scandal of Christianity today is that the qualities for which that small community at Antioch were given the name “Christian” are no longer found amongst many so called Christian communities today. Basically, there seems to be no line of distinction currently between Christians, Non-believers, Doubters and even Atheists other than the fact that each Sunday, we go to Church.
What makes us Christians? It is our ability to rise above the traditional church-goer mentality. It is doing more than the tax collectors who love only those that love them. It is doing more than the Gentiles who greet only those that greet them. It is stepping out of the box, is acting in a manner that is really different from what our society regards as normal. It is doing thing just as Jesus would do if He were to walk this earth again.
What made that first community so unique? What earned them the name “Christian”? It was the Christ-like Love that existed among them; a love that is capable of forgiving one’s enemies right on the cross; a love that does not select its beneficiaries; a love that is purely sacrificial not expecting anything in return. In all honesty, the only love found in our so-called Christian communities today is the business love; a love that is purely based on give and take; a love that is concerned only about those who are capable or willing to reciprocate it; a love that demands much more than it gives; a selective love.
Being a Christian is practicing what I would call non-selective goodness. It is being kind to people not because they deserve it but because of who you are; a child whose Father does not discriminate who to benefit or not from his rain.
PERSONAL DEVOTIONAL FOR LENT DAY 10
As human beings we expect God to treat us well, to give us His blessings, show us mercy and protect us always. However, when it is time for us to do the same to our fellow brothers and sisters we are unwilling to do the same and we make excuses.
Know it today once again, that the measure you give will be the measure you shall receive. If you want peace, love, kindness, forgiveness, mercy and so on, you must be willing and ready to give the same to others.
Today, get into your consciousness that you cannot expect to be happy, while all that you do by your words and action is to cause others pain. Therefore, turn a new leaf and become a channel of joy to others so that your own joy will come to you from God.
Let us Pray
Lord Jesus, make me more and more like you. Amen.
Sunday, March 5, 2023
SECOND SUNDAY OF LENT (A)
Office- Psalter Week 1
Mass prop. Creed. Preface of Lent II
Vestment: Violet
Today’s Rosary: The Glorious Mystery
OTHER CELEBRATIONS ARE NOT ALLOWED, NOT EVEN FUNERAL MASSES.
Vespers II of the Second Sunday of Lent
THEME OF THE SUNDAY: The Vocation of Abraham and the Vocation of the Christian.
The life of a Christian can be compared to a journey undertaken in the company of the Master. Abraham was the first to set off on this journey he answer to a call from God (first reading). Like him every catechumen is invited to leave his “country.” The Gospel shows us the only light that the catechumen should follow. The second reading calls upon the disciples not to be discouraged when they meet difficulties.
-FIRST READING-
The call of Abraham, the father of the People of God.
A reading from the Book of Genesis (Genesis 12: 1-4a)
In those days: The Lord said to Abram, “Go from your country and your kindred and your father’s house to the land that I will show you. And I will make of you a great nation, and I will bless you, and make your name great, so that you will be a blessing. I will bless those who bless you, and him who curses you I will curse; and by you all the families of the earth shall bless themselves.” So Abram went, as the LORD had told him.
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Psalm 33:4-5. 18-19.20 and 22 (R. 22)
R/. May your merciful love be upon us, as we hope in you, O Lord.
The word of the Lord is faithful,
and all his works to be trusted.
The Lord loves justice and right,
and his merciful love fills the earth. R/.
Yes, the Lord’s eyes are on those who fear him,
who hope in his merciful love,
to rescue their souls from death,
to keep them alive in famine. R/.
R/. May your merciful love be upon us, as we hope in you, O Lord.
Our soul is waiting for the Lord.
He is our help and our shield.
May your merciful love be upon us,
as we hope in you, O Lord. R/.
-SECOND READING-
God calls and enlightens us.
A reading from the second Letter of Saint Paul to Timothy (2 Timothy 1:8b-10)
Beloved: Take your share of suffering for the Gospel in the power of God, who saved us and called us with a holy calling, not in virtue of our works but in virtue of his own purpose and the grace which he gave us in Christ Jesus ages ago, and now has manifested through the appearing of our Saviour Christ Jesus, who abolished death and brought life and immortality to light through the Gospel.
The word of the Lord.
VERSE BEFORE THE GOSPEL MATTHEW 17-5
Glory and praise to you, O Christ. From the shining cloud the father’s voice is heard: this is my beloved Son, hear him. Glory and praise to you, O Christ.
-GOSPEL-
“His face shone like the sun.
A reading from the holy Gospel according to Matthew 17: 1-9
At that time: Jesus took with him Peter and James and John his brother, and led them up a high mountain apart. And he was transfigured before them, and his face shone like the sun, and his garments became white as light. And behold, there appeared to them Moses and Elijah, talking with him. And Peter said to Jesus, “Lord, it is well that we are here; if you wish, I will make three booths here, one for you and one for Moses and one for Elijah.” He was still speaking, when behold, a bright cloud overshadowed them, and a voice from the cloud said, “This is my beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased; listen to him.” When the disciples heard this, they fell on their faces, and were filled with awe. But Jesus came and touched them, saying, “Rise, and have no fear.” And when they lifted up their eyes, they saw no one but Jesus only. And as they were coming down the mountain, Jesus commanded them, “Tell no one the vision, until the Son of man is raised from the dead.”
The Gospel of the Lord.
PRAYER OF THE FAITHFUL
Celebrant:
The three disciples of Jesus experienced the mysteries and joy of the transfiguration. As we trust in Christ’s redemptive power, we come before him with all our needs, with faith that he will give us his joy and peace.
FOR THE HIERARCHY OF THE CHURCH: that following the footsteps of Christ, they may carry out their work faithfully even in the most difficult of times. Let us pray to the Lord.
FOR OUR COUNTRY: that our leaders may become fully aware of their responsibility to work towards changing they country for the better and promoting the good of all. Let us pray to the Lord.
FOR THOSE WHO ARE PERSECUTED: that they may come to understand and accept the cross as their participation in the life of Christ. Let us pray to the Lord
FOR THIS WORSHIPPING COMMUNITY: that we may have the courage to fully put our trust in God. Let us pray to the Lord.
FOR OTHER INTENTIONS: (the sick, Church projects or other activities).
FOR THE DEAD, ESPECIALLY THOSE OF OUR PARISH COMMUNITY AND FAMILY MEMBERS: that they may find eternal rest with the Lord. Let us pray to the Lord.
We pray in silence for our private intentions.
Celebrant:
Lord God, grant that we may always delight in your presence and, in your mercy, hear and answer the prayers we have brought to you. Through Christ our Lord.
R/. Amen
TODAY’S REFLECTION
"It is wonderful that we are here. ”Why not remain here permanently, praying and enjoying this holy companionship? Such a religious experience is good and transforming - it brings one closer to God. But the test of a good religion experience is our everyday life with its challenges. It is wonderful that we gather every Sunday to commemorate the death and resurrection of Jesus and, like the disciples, to have a religious experience. We come with our joys and hopes, our anxieties and sorrows, our thanksgiving and praises, our needs and desires. We listen to the Word of God and receive Jesus in the Sacrament of the Eucharist. At the end of the Mass we are sent back to our everyday life, to our homes and places of work - to become witnesses of the transforming religious experience we had at Mass. How much of the Mass do we take home? How much of it is reflected in our life and encounter?
PERSONAL DEVOTIONAL FOR LENT
A very pleasant and wonderful morning to you my beloved friend. I hope you had a good night rest. You will definitely have some plans today and in the new week, I therefore wish you the very best as you carry out your activities. However, as you go about today, remember to find time to rest so that you will be refreshed when the new working week starts.
Let us think about this today.
The life of a Christian should be different from that of a non-Christian, because the Christian knows Christ and as such he or she should live a life of love which is the hallmark of the Christian life. Surprisingly, many Christians seem not to be making much impact in people in terms of transformation, because our kind of Christianity is after our own mind and not after the mind of Christ.
Now is the time and season to step up our game in terms of being truly Christian in our words and actions, so that others who look at us and who are yet to know Christ will be moved and inspired to come to follow Him through our attitude and behaviour.
Let us pray
May God give you the grace to forgive those who hurt you, pay them back with love and pray for those who persecute you. Amen.
Meditation: Deuteronomy 26:16-19 /Psalm 119/ Matthew 5:43-48
Monday, March 6, 2023
Office- Psalter Week 2
Mass prop. Preface of Lent
Vestment: Violet
Today’s Rosary: The Joyful Mystery
-FIRST READING-
“We have sinned and done wrong.”
A reading from the Book of the Prophet Daniel (Daniel 9:4b-10)
O Lord, the great and awesome God, who keeps covenant and merciful love with those who love him and keep his commandments, we have sinned and done wrong and acted wickedly and rebelled, turning aside from your commandments and ordinances; we have not listened to your servants the prophets, who spoke in your name to our kings, our princes, and our fathers, and to all the people of the land. To you, O Lord, belongs righteousness, but to us confusion of face, as at this day, to the men of Judah, to the inhabitants of Jerusalem, and to all Israel, those that are near and those that are far away, in all the lands to which you have driven them, because of the treachery which they have committed against you. To us, O Lord, belongs confusion of face, to our kings, to our princes, and to our fathers, because we have sinned against you. To the Lord our God belong mercy and forgiveness; because we have rebelled against him, and have not obeyed the voice of the Lord our God by following his laws, which he set before us by his servants the prophets.
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Ps 79:8.9.11. 13 (R. see Ps103: 10a)
R/. O Lord, do not treat us according to our sins.
Do not remember against us
the guilt of former times.
Let your compassion hasten to meet us;
for we have been brought very low. R/.
Help us, O God our saviour,
for the sake of the glory of your name.
Free us and forgive us our sins,
because of your name. R/.
R/. O Lord, do not treat us according to our sins.
Let the groans of the prisoners
come before you,
your strongarm reprieve those
condemned to die. R/.
Then we, your people, the flock
of your pasture,
will give you thanks forever and ever.
From age to age we will recount
your praise. R/.
VERSE BEFORE THE GOSPEL John 6:63c.68c
Glory and praise to you, O Christ.
Your words, Lord, are Spirit and life; you have the words of eternal life.
Glory and praise to you, O Christ.
-GOSPEL-
“Forgive, and you will be forgiven.”
A reading from the holy Gospel according to Luke 6:36-38
At that time: Jesus said to his disciples, “Be merciful, even as your Father is merciful. Judge not, and you will not be judged; condemn not, and you will not be condemned; forgive, and you will be forgiven; give, and it will be given to you; good measure, pressed down, shaken together, running over, will be put into your lap. For the measure you give will be the measure you get back.”
The Gospel of the Lord.
TODAY’S REFLECTION
Mercy is forgiveness. Jesus says “forgive and you will be forgiven.” God’s mercy is clearly revealed in the largeness of his heart to forgive. Ezekiel 33:11 says: “As I live, says the Lord GOD, I have no pleasure in the death of the wicked, but that the wicked turn from his way and live; turn back, turn back from your evil ways; for why will you die, O house of Israel?” Once more we must note that forgiveness is not the same thing as condoning evil. If we do not forgive, we become worse than our enemies in the sense that we try to use evil to cure evil. It never works.
Mercy as Jesus describes in Luke 6:36-38, is charity; giving – helping the needy. To be merciful is to put oneself in the shoes of another. It is being able to feel the pains of others as our own pains and doing something to alleviate their plight. Jesus says “the measure you give will be the measure you get back.” This statement is quite similar to the parable of Jesus in Matthew 25:34-36: “Come, O blessed of my Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world; for I was hungry and you gave me food, I was thirsty and you gave me drink, I was a stranger and you welcomed me, I was naked and you clothed me, I was sick and you visited me, I was in prison and you came to me.”
Being merciful is such an important virtue because without it, we cannot claim to be children of God neither can we be rest assured of entrance into Paradise on the last day. Your best possible life can only happen when you are merciful. Be merciful, do not hold up hatred in your heart, do not be stingy with your gifts and your life will surely make a difference in this world.
PERSONAL DEVOTIONAL FOR LENT DAY 12
There is no way you can make progress in your spiritual Journey if you do not aim to be like Jesus, and one of the ways we could be like Him is by being humble. Humility is a virtue which if you possess it will make you look little in the eyes of people, but great in the eyes of God.
You are nothing without God, therefore, do not brag about anything in this life, but simply set aside your 'ego', knock down the attitude of pride and wear the garment of humility as you strive to be like Jesus to all men and women around you.
Today, do not mind your position as the boss of your establishment or group, simply bring yourself down like Jesus and see where you can act humbly to your subordinates and make them feel special and loved.
Let us pray:
Lord Jesus, take away my heart of stone and give me a merciful and humble heart like yours. Amen.
Tuesday, March 7, 2023
ST PERPETUA AND FELICITY, Mm, (Opt. Commem.)
Office: Psalter Week 2
Mass prop. Preface of Lent
Vestment: Violet
Today’s Rosary: The Sorrowful Mystery
-FIRST READING-
“Learn to do good, seek justice.”
A reading from the Book of Isaiah 1:10.16-20
Hear the word of the Lord, you rulers of Sodom! Give ear to the teaching of our God, you people of Gomorrah! Wash yourselves; make yourselves clean; remove the evil of your doings from before my eyes; cease to do evil, learn to do good; seek justice, correct oppression; defend the fatherless, plead for the widow. “Come now, let us reason together, says the Lord: though your sins are like scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they are red like crimson, they shall become like wool. If you are willing and obedient, you shall eat the good of the land; but if you refuse and rebel, you shall be devoured by the sword; for the mouth of the Lord has spoken.”
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Psalm 50:8-9.16bc-17.21 and 23 (R. 23bc)
R/. To one whose way is blameless, I will show the salvation of God.
“I do not rebuke you for your sacrifices;
your offerings are always before me.
I do not take more bullocks from your farms,
nor goats from among your herds.” R/.
“How can you recite my commandments,
and take my covenant on your lips,
you who despise correction,
and cast my words behind you.” R/.
R/. To one whose way is blameless, I will show the salvation of God.
“You do this, and should I keep silence?
Do you think that I am like you?
I accuse you, lay the charge before you.
A sacrifice of praise gives me honour,
and to one whose way is blameless,
I will show the salvation of God.” R/.
VERSE BEFORE THE GOSPEL Ezekiel 18:31
Glory and praise to you, O Christ.
Cast away from you all the transgressions which you have committed, says the Lord, and get yourselves a new heart and a new spirit.
Glory and praise to you, O Christ.
-GOSPEL-
“They preach, but do not practice.”
A reading from the ho y Gospel according to Matthew 23:1-12
At that time: Jesus said to the crowds and to his disciples, “The scribes and the Pharisees sit on Moses’ seat; so practice and observe whatever they tell you, but not what they do; for they preach, but do not practice. They bind heavy burdens, hard to bear, and lay them on men’s shoulders; but they themselves will not move them with their finger. They do all their deeds to be seen by men; for they make their phylacteries broad and their fringes long, and they love the place of honour at feasts and the best seats in the synagogues, and salutations in the market places, and being called rabbi by men. But you are not to be called rabbi, for you have one teacher, and you are all brethren. And call no man your father on earth, for you have one Father, who is in heaven. Neither be called masters, for you have one master, the Christ. He who is greatest among you shall be your servant; whoever exalts himself will be humbled, and whoever humbles himself will be exalted.”
The Gospel of the Lord.
TODAY’S REFLECTION
Today, Jesus goes straight against the teachers of the Law and Pharisees who parade themselves as models, and demand public recognition. They love teaching others but do not practice what they teach. He does not condemn their teaching, because he knows they are true, but he does condemn their conduct because it is false, erroneous. True piety or religion is conforming our actions to our faith perception. We cannot believe in one thing and do exactly the opposite. For instance, one cannot say one believe in one God and then make use of fetish charms. Some Christians do precisely that. Being proficient by their training, they can explain the faith very well, but are largely found lacking in practice. Jesus condemns this attitude.
PERSONAL DEVOTIONAL FOR LENT DAY 13
Our definition of greatness is not the same with that of God. We define greatness by what people have in terms of material possession and the positions they occupy. However, in God's sight, true greatness lies in our ability to use and place whatever gift and good we possess at the service of others without focusing on the gains we will make from it.
Today, aim to use all you have to serve others around you and in serving them you will be the greatest and the first in God's sight. No need for jealousy or greediness, for whoever God chooses to use, He will use. Be a team player always.
Let us Pray:
Lord Jesus, may your earthly father, Joseph intercede for me. Amen.
Wednesday, March 8, 2023
ST JOHN OF GOD, REL (Opt. Commem.)
Office- Psalter Week 2
Mass prop. Preface of Lent
Vestment: Violet
Today’s Rosary: The Glorious Mystery
DEATH ANNIVERSARY of Bishop Timothy Catter, OSA of Maiduguri, 15/03/88
-FIRST READING-
“Come, let us strike him.”
A reading from the Book of Jeremiah 18: 18-20
They said, “Come, let us make plots against Jeremiah, for the law shall not perish from the priest, nor counsel from the wise, nor the word from the prophet. Come, let us strike him with the tongue, and let us not heed any of his words.” Give heed to me, O Lord, and listen to my plea. Is evil a recompense for good? Yet they have dug a pit for my life. Remember how I stood before you to speak good for them, to turn away your wrath from them.
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Psalm 31:5-6.14.15-16 (R. see 17b)
R/. Save me, O Lord, in your merciful love.
Release me from the snare they have hidden,
for you indeed are my refuge.
Into your hands I commend my spirit.
You will redeem me, O Lord, O faithful God. R/.
I have heard the slander of the crowd;
terror all around me,
as they plot together against me,
as they plan to take my life. R/.
R/. Save me, O Lord, in your merciful love.
But as for me, I trust in you, O Lord;
I say, “You are my God.
My lot is in your hands, deliver me
from the hands of my enemies
and those who pursue me.” R/.
VERSE BEFORE THE GOSPEL John 8: 12
Glory and praise to you, O Christ.
I am the light of the world, says the Lord; he who follows me will have the light of life.
Glory and praise to you, O Christ.
-GOSPEL-
“They will condemn him to death.”
A reading from the holy Gospel according to Matthew 20: 17-28
At that time: As Jesus was going up to Jerusalem, he took the twelve disciples aside, and on the way he said to them, “Behold, we are going up to Jerusalem; and the Son of man will be delivered to the chief priests and scribes, and they will condemn him to death, and deliver him to the Gentiles to be mocked and scourged and crucified, and he will be raised on the third day.” Then the mother of the sons of Zebedee came up to him, with her sons, and kneeling before him she asked him for something. And he said to her, “What do you want?” She said to him, “Command that these two sons of mine may sit, one at your right hand and one at your left, in your kingdom.” But Jesus answered, “You do not know what you are asking. Are you able to drink the chalice that I am to drink?” They said to him, “We are able.” He said to them, “You will drink my chalice, but to sit at my right hand and at my left is not mine to grant, but it is for those for whom it has been prepared by my Father.” And when the Ten heard it they were indignant at the two brothers. But Jesus called them to him and said, “You know that the rulers of the Gentiles lord it over them, and their great men exercise authority over them. It shall not be so among you; but whoever would be great among you must be your servant, and whoever would be first among you must be your slave; even as the Son of man came not to be served but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.”
The Gospel of the Lord.
TODAY’S REFLECTION
The shortest road to greatness is service and this is a secret many people do not know. We all want to get ahead in life but we fail to realise that going higher does not happen by bringing people down but bringing oneself down before others. If indeed respect begets respect, then service begets promotion.
By serving others, we may not make as much money as we would want, but we make something far more valuable than money. If Joseph had not being a slave, there was no way he would have functioned well as a Prime Minister. Life’s greatest lessons are not taught in the comfort of our classroom desks but in tears, sweat and blood. No wonder Denzel Washington said: “Ease is a greater threat to progress than adversity.” If it was easy, there would be no stars in this world. God himself who created us did not make life easy not because he likes stress but because he knows that if we are not stressed, the gifts and talents he deposited in us for the continued development of this world will not shine out.
Do not think you are doing your children a favour when you employ housemaids and houseboys to do all the work in the house while your kids simply eat, sleep and play. You are deforming your children, taking away their opportunity for creativity and personal development. As Fr. George Ehusani puts it: “If because of your suffering, you became wise, your attempt to prevent your children from suffering will make them fools.”
There is more honour in being a servant than in being served by others. If Jesus Christ, our Lord and God could afford to come to this world to serve mankind, why should I be ashamed of serving others?
PERSONAL DEVOTIONAL FOR LENT DAY 14
The switch on the wall in a house is meant for control, that is, to put on the light or to put it off. When the light is on, we see well and when it is off at night, we cannot see. The switch however, cannot work on its own except it is activated by someone through a process.
Know it now, once again that you can switch on to do good and switch off from doing evil or vice versa. It is about the choice you make and this season is a time to flick the switch on for goodness especially helping the needy. When this is done, your light will shine and you will dispel the darkness in our world.
Today, flick the switch of darkness of stinginess off and try to see how that your little bread, gift or possession could be shared among all who needs it and automatically bring joy and light to their lives.
Let us Pray:
Lord Jesus, give me the same mind as you had to humble myself and serve others. Take away from me my pride, my longing to exult myself. May I be poor in spirit Lord. Amen.
Thursday, March 9, 2023
ST FRANCES OF ROME, REL (Opt Commem)
Office- Psalter Week 2
Mass prop. Preface of Lent
Vestment: Violet
Today’s Rosary: The Luminous Mystery
-FIRST READING-
“Cursed is the man who trusts in man, blessed is the man who trusts in the Lord.”
A reading from the Book of Jeremiah 17:5-10
Thus says the Lord: “Cursed is the man who trusts in man and makes flesh his arm, whose heart turns away from the Lord. He is like a shrub in the desert, and shall not see any good come. He shall dwell in the parched places of the wilderness, in an uninhabited salt land. “Blessed is the man who trusts in the Lord, whose trust is the LORD. He is like a tree planted by water, that sends out its roots by the stream, and does not fear when heat comes, for its leaves remain green, and is not anxious in the year of drought, for it does not cease to bear fruit.” The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately corrupt; who can understand it? “I the Lord search the mind and try the heart, to give to every man according to his ways, according to the fruit of his doings.”
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Psalm 1:1-2.3.4 and 6 (Psalm 40:5ab)
R/. Blessed the man who has placed his trust in the Lord.
Blessed indeed is the man
who follows not the counsel of the wicked,
nor stands in the path with sinners,
nor abides in the company of scorners,
but whose delight is the law of the Lord,
and who ponders his law day and night. R/.
He is like a tree that is planted
beside the flowing waters,
that yields its fruit in due season,
and whose leaves shall never fade;
and all that he does shall prosper. R/.
R/. Blessed the man who has placed his trust in the Lord.
Not so are the wicked, not so!
For they, like winnowed chaff,
shall be driven away by the wind.
For the Lord knows the way of the just,
but the way of the wicked will perish. R/.
VERSE BEFORE THE GOSPEL Luke 8: 15
Glory and praise to you, O Christ.
Blessed are those who, hearing the word, hold it fast in an honest and good heart, and bring forth fruit with patience.
Glory and praise to you, O Christ.
-GOSPEL-
Good things came to you and bad things to Lazarus, now he is comforted while you are in agony.
A reading from the holy Gospel according to Luke 1 6: 19-31
At that time: Jesus said to the Pharisees, “There was a rich man, who was clothed in purple and fine linen and who feasted sumptuously every day. And at his gate lay a poor man named Lazarus, full of sores, who desired to be fed with what fell from the rich man’s table; moreover the dogs came and licked his sores. The poor man died and was carried by the angels to Abraham’s bosom. The rich man also died and was buried; and in Hades, being in torment, he lifted up his eyes, and saw Abraham far off and Lazarus in his bosom. And he called out, ‘Father Abraham, have mercy upon me, and send Lazarus to dip the end of his finger in water and cool my tongue; for I am in anguish in this flame.' “But Abraham said, ‘Son, remember that you in your lifetime received your good things, and Lazarus in like manner evil things; but now he is comforted here, and you are in anguish. And besides all this, between us and you a great chasm has been fixed, in order that those who would pass from here to you may not be able, and none may cross from there to us. ’ And he said, 'Then I beg you, father, to send him to my father’s house, for I have five brothers, so that he may warn them, lest they also come into this place of torment. ’But Abraham said, ‘They have Moses and the prophets; let them hear them.’ And he said ‘No, father Abraham; but if someone goes to them from the dead, they will repent. ’ He said to him, ‘If they do not hear Moses and the prophets, neither will they be convinced if someone should rise from the dead.”’
The Gospel of the Lord.
TODAY’S REFLECTION IS A MESSAGE FROM LAZARUS
My name is Lazarus, I am sure you still recognize me. My body was always covered with sores, your house dogs loved licking my sores. I was always there by your gate, and I knew you had more than enough to eat and drink, every day you had a party in this house. You always invited people to come and dine with you. You invited senators, governors and the richest businessmen and women but you never looked at me. You did not consider me a human being because I was poor.
Each time you saw me, you pretended as if I don’t exist. You wished I could just disappear. You thought I was simply lazy or that I was being cursed for living in such an impoverished condition. You blamed my condition on the government and everybody else but never saw yourself as capable of helping me. You didn’t realize I was a gift to you. When I died, I went to heaven and was taken to Abraham’s side but your Oga also died and was taken to Hell Fire. From the midst of hell, he saw me and begged Abraham to ask me dip my finger in water to cool his tongue.
In life he had gallons of water to drink and waste and here he was begging for just one drop. And he couldn’t get the drop so he begged Abraham to send me to you to warn you. Your Oga still loves you, he doesn’t want you to come and experience hell fire so I am here to warn you. Hell is real, please do all your best to avoid it! Be kind and generous to the poor and needy.
Whatsoever you do to the least of my brothers, Jesus says, that you do unto me. Don’t share your food only with the rich, also invite poor people to table. You can afford to spray dollars at occasions and people like me are scattered all over the place unable to eat even one meal a day. Above all, I want you to know that God sees everything that happens. For years I was there at your gate, God was giving you countless opportunities to change your heart and do something but you refused. I warn you now before it is too late.
Although Abraham told your Oga that even if someone rise from the dead, you will not believe, I decided to come all the same. Believe me or not, my name is Lazarus and this is my message to you!
PERSONAL DEVOTIONAL FOR LENT DAY 15
Bitterness and jealousy is a disease that kills the one who harbor them and not the one they are projected upon. When you live a life without bitterness and jealousy, you will be contented with what you have and you will be able to rejoice with others when God makes use of them, instead of you, to achieve something in this life. Be a team player, use your gift well for good and remember that there is something you have, that others do not have, therefore, bring out the best in you, excel and help others to do the same instead of running them down.
Today, try to see how you can use your word or action to encourage that your brother or sister, instead of trying to do away with them. There is enough space for all of us to excel, therefore, do not pull anyone down, instead, contribute to their rising.
Let us Pray:
Lord Jesus, help me to listen to Lazarus and act accordingly. Amen.
Friday, March 10, 2023
Weekday of Lent (2)
Office: Psalter Week 2
Mass prop., Preface of Lent
Vestment: Violet
Today’s Rosary: The Sorrowful Mystery
ENTRANCE ANTIPHON CF. PS 31:2.5
In you, O Lord, I put my trust, let me never be put to shame; release me from the snare they have hidden for me, for you indeed are my refuge.
COLLECT
Grant, we pray, almighty God, that, purifying us by the sacred practice of penance, you may lead us in sincerity of heart to attain the holy things to come. Through our Lord.
-FIRST READING-
“Here comes this dreamer. Come not', let us kill him.”
A reading from the Book of Genesis (Genesis37:3-4.12-13a.17b-28)
Israel loved Joseph more than any other of his children, because he was the son of his old age; and he made him a long robe with sleeves. But when his brothers saw that their father loved him more than all his brothers, they hated him, and could not speak peaceably to him. Now his brothers went to pasture their father’s flock near Shechem. And Israel said to Joseph, “Are not your brothers pasturing the flock at Shechem? Come, I will send you to them.” So Joseph went after his brothers, and found them at Dothan. They saw him afar off, and before he came near to them they conspired against him to kill him. They said to one another, “Here comes this dreamer. Come now, let us kill him and throw him into one of the pits; then we shall say that a wild beast has devoured him, and we shall see what will become of his dreams.” But when Reuben heard it, he delivered him out of their hands, saying, “Let us not take his life.” And Reuben said to them, “Shed no blood; cast him into this pit here in the wilderness, but lay no hand upon him”- that he might rescue him out of their hand, to restore him to his father. So when Joseph came to his brothers, they stripped him of his robe, the long robe with sleeves that he wore, and they took him and cast him into a pit. The pit was empty, there was no water in it. Then they sat down to eat; and looking up they saw a caravan of Ishmaelites coming from Gilead, with their camels bearing gum, balm, and myrrh, on their way to carry it down to Egypt. Then Judah said to his brothers, “What profit is it if we slay our brother and conceal his blood? Come, let us sell him to the Ishmaelites, and let not our hand be upon him, for he is our brother, our own flesh.” And his brothers heeded him. Then Midianite traders passed by; and they drew Joseph up and lifted him out of the pit, and sold him to the Ishmaelites for twenty shekels of silver; and they took Joseph to Egypt.
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Psalm 105: 15- 17.18-19.20-21 (R. 5a)
R/. Remember the wonders the Lord has done.
But he called down a famine on the land;
he broke their staff of bread.
He had sent a man ahead of them,
Joseph, sold as a slave. R/.
His feet were weighed down in chains,
his neck was bound with iron,
until what he said came to pass,
and the word of the Lord proved him true. R/.
R/. Remember the wonders the Lord has done.
Then the king sent orders and released him;
the ruler of the peoples set him free.
He made him master of his house
and ruler of all his possessions. R/.
VERSE BEFORE THE GOSPEL John 3 :16
Glory and praise to you, O Christ. God so loved the world that he gave his only-begotten Son; that whoever believes in him should have eternal life. Glory and praise to you, O Christ.
-GOSPEL-
“This is the heir, ‘come, let us kill him.”
A reading from the holy Gospel according to Matthew (Matthew 21:33-43.45-46)
At that time: Jesus said to the chief priests and the elders of the people, “Hear another parable. There was a householder who planted a vineyard, and set a hedge around it, and dug a wine press in it, and built a tower, and leased it to tenants, and went into another country. When the season of fruit drew near, he sent his servants to the tenants, to get his fruit; and the tenants took his servants and beat one, killed another, and stoned another. Again he sent other servants, more than the first; and they did the same to them. Afterwards he sent his son to them, saying, ‘They will respect my son.’ “But when the tenants saw the son, they said to themselves, ‘This is the heir; come, let us kill him and have his inheritance.’ And they took him and cast him out of the vineyard, and killed him. When therefore the owner of the vineyard comes, what will he do to those tenants?” They said to him, “He will put those wretches to a miserable death, and lease the vineyard to other tenants who will give him the fruits in their seasons.” Jesus said to them, “Have you never read in the Scriptures: ‘The very stone which the builders rejected has become the cornerstone; this was the Lord’s doing, and it is marvellous in our eyes’? Therefore I tell you, the kingdom of God will be taken away from you and given to a nation producing the fruits of it.” When the chief priests and the Pharisees heard his parables, they perceived that he was speaking about them. But when they tried to arrest him, they feared the multitudes, because they held him to be a prophet.
The Gospel of the Lord.
TODAY’S REFLECTION
As much as God has so endowed you with gifts, bear in mind that there would always be people who would do everything to try to stop you from shining. There is wickedness in this world. Tell me, what offence did Joseph commit against his brothers to warrant such hatred? Again, let’s flip this question around: Why do I become so sad when I see people excelling (moving ahead of me) in life?
As much as I cannot deny my jealousy towards others, I must bear in mind that there are so many others who are secretly praying for my death or for something bad to happen to me so that they can feel good about themselves; so that they can have something to talk about and laugh.
Think about this: Joseph could have decided to become a recluse seeing his dreams dashed off by his brothers. Joseph could have decided to develop a rather wayward and hardened heart since the people he loved so much could do such an evil thing to him. He could have decided to become an angry person for life; transferring the aggression against his brothers to anyone he meets. But this was not the case.
From time to time, wicked people may have their way in our lives. But, no matter what they do to you, don’t forget, you are still a bundle of potentials. When you die, God will not ask for excuses or reasons why you didn’t shine, God will only ask how you traded with the coin he deposited in you at birth. Stop blaming anyone for your problems, get up today and shine! Be Fruitful! Genesis 1:22.
No human being is born useless. Just as God in creating the earth planted various rich mineral deposits deep within it, so also each human being comes with a lot of rich deposits. The parable of householder who planted a vineyard teaches us a lesson; that God expects us to be fruitful. He knows what we are made of. If the householder had not planted rich seeds, he would not send people to ask for the fruits. God demands our fruits because he knows we have all it takes to deliver.
PERSONAL DEVOTIONAL FOR LENT DAY 16
Many times it seems our world is everyday becoming so different from what God made it to be, because we fail to stand up for what is just and right and we condone injustice and wickedness.
We need the courage to stand up for what is right and defend the right of the innocent and defenseless. You cannot be a true child of God when you turn your eyes away, and pretend not to see when others are suffering.
Today, make a decision and follow it up with action to defend the cause that promotes and protects the dignity of the human person no matter who is involved.
Let us pray:
Lord Jesus, when you come to collect my fruits, may I never be found wanting. Amen.
Saturday, March 11, 2023
Weekday of Lent (2)
Office- Psalter Week 2
Mass prop. Preface of Lent
Vestment: Violet
Today’s Rosary: Joyful Mystery
Vespers I of the 3rd Sunday of Lent
First Scrutiny (3rd Sunday of Lent). The First Scrutiny of Catechumens takes place on this Sunday. If for pastoral reasons the Scrutiny cannot take place on this day, or the next two Sundays. Other appropriate weekdays may be chosen in lent.
-FIRST READING-
“He will cast all our sins into the depths of the sea.”
A reading from the Book of the Prophet Micah (Micah 7: 14-15. 18-20)
Shepherd your people, [O Lord,] with your staff, the flock of your inheritance, who dwell alone in a forest in the midst of a garden land; let them feed in Bashan and Gilead as in the days of old. As in the days when you came out of the land of Egypt I will show them marvellous things. Who is a God like you, pardoning iniquity and passing over transgression for the remnant of his inheritance? He does not retain his anger for ever because he delights in mercy. He will again have compassion upon us, he will tread our iniquities under foot. You will cast all our sins into the depths of the sea. You will show faithfulness to Jacob and mercy to Abraham, as you have sworn to our fathers from the days of old.
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM (Psalm 103:1-2.3-4.9-10. 11-12 (R. 8a)
R/. The Lord is compassionate and gracious.
Bless the Lord, O my soul,
and all within me, his holy name.
Bless the Lord, O my soul,
and never forget all his benefits. R/.
It is the Lord who forgives all your sins,
who heals every one of your ills,
who redeems your life from the grave,
who crowns you with mercy and compassion. R/.
R/. The Lord is compassionate and gracious.
He will not always find fault;
nor persist in his anger forever.
He does not treat us according to our sins,
nor repay us according to our faults. R/.
For as the heavens are high above the earth,
so strong his mercy for those who fear him.
As far as the east is from the west,
so far from us does he remove our transgressions. R/.
VERSE BEFORE THE GOSPEL Luke 15: 18
Glory and praise to you, O Christ.
I will arise and go to my father, and I will say to him: Father, I have sinned against heaven and before you.
Glory and praise to you, O Christ.
-GOSPEL-
“This your brother was dead, and is alive.”
A reading from the holy Gospel according to Luke 15:1-3, 11-32
At that time: The tax collectors and sinners were all drawing near to hear Jesus. And the Pharisees and the scribes murmured, saying, “This man receives sinners and eats with them.” So he told them this parable: “There was a man who had two sons; and the younger of them said to his father, ‘Father, give me the share of property that falls to me.’ And he divided his living between them. Not many days later, the younger son gathered all he had and took his journey into a far country, and there he squandered his property in loose living. And when he had spent everything, a great famine arose in that country, and he began to be in want. So he went and joined himself to one of the citizens of that country, who sent him into his fields to feed swine. And he would gladly have fed on the pods that swine ate; and no one gave him anything. But when he came to himself he said, ‘How many of my father’s hired servants have bread enough and to spare, but I perish here with hunger! I will arise and go to my father, and I will say to him, “Father, I have sinned against heaven and before you; I am no longer worthy to be called your son; treat me as one of your hired servants.”’ And he arose and came to his father. But while he was yet at a distance, his father saw him and had compassion, and ran and embraced him and kissed him. And the son said to him, ‘Father, I have sinned against heaven and before you; I am no longer worthy to be called your son.’ But the father said to his servants, ‘Bring quickly the best robe, and put it on him; and put a ring on his hand, and shoes on his feet; and bring the fatted calf and kill it, and let us eat and make merry; for this my son was dead, and is alive again; he was lost, and is found.’ And they began to make merry. “Now his elder son was in the field; and as he came and drew near to the house, he heard music and dancing. And he called one of the servants and asked what this meant. And he said to him, ‘Your brother has come, and your father has killed the fatted calf, because he has received him safe and sound.’ But he was angry and refused to go in. His father came out and entreated him, but he answered his father, ‘Behold, these many years I have served you, and I never disobeyed your command; yet you never gave me a kid, that I might make merry with my friends. But when this son of yours came, who has devoured your living with harlots, you killed for him the fatted calf! ’And he said to him, ‘Son, you are always with me, and all that is mine is yours. It was fitting to make merry and be glad, for this your brother was dead, and is alive; he was lost, and is found. ”’
The Gospel of the Lord
TODAY’S REFLECTION
The Gospel presents the image of two disparate sons; one rebellious and adventurous, the other submissive and content with staying bask home. Life takes its course on both. At the end it is not clear which of the two sons is really “lost”; the one who wastes his life before coming to this senses or the one who is well-behaved and dutiful but shows lack of understanding for his father’s magnanimity? What is clear is the father’s love, joy, forbearance and open-heartedness. God’s mercy is infinite, even to the worst of sinners. His hands are always open to embrace us. Are we ready to go home to Him and to rejoice at every home-comer? Finally, it is the story of a merciful father depicting God’s mercifulness and love.
PERSONAL DEVOTIONAL FOR LENT DAY 17
Pride, they say, goes before a fall and the more we try to rise without God, the more we get to our destination realising that we have done an exercise in futility. The way up, is down; and Jesus showed us that example when he humbled Himself and took our form in order to redeem us. (Phil 2:6-11) If we must be Christians after the mind of Christ, we must resolve to humble ourselves in words and action and do things the Jesus' way.
Today, resolve to act humbly by speaking kindly to those who work with you and if possible give them a helping hand to do the things you would have barked or yelled at them to do.
Let us Pray:
Lord Jesus, give me a very large heart, purge away from me all bitterness, all past pains, all hatred and all forms of evil intentions against others. Amen.
Sunday, March 12, 2023
THIRD SUNDAY OF LENT
Office- Psalter Week 3
Mass prop., Creed. Preface of Lent
Vestment: Violet
Today’s Rosary: Glorious Mystery
For RCIA the reading for Year B may be used: (Others Celebrations are not allowed, not even funeral Masses.)
Vespers II of the Third Sunday of Lent
Theme of the Sunday: If You Knew the Gift of God. We have all experienced thirst; we all know what happens to our fields when it doesn’t rain. The first reading and the Gospel speak to us of water. In the desert the people of Israel survived because God provided water for them. In the Gospel Jesus speaks of a new water, a new life that he wants to give us. The second reading shows why we should trust and be joyful because no one will be deprived of this water.
-FIRST READING-
“Give us water to drink”.. (Ex 1 7.2).
A reading from the Book of Exodus 17:3.7
In those days: The people thirsted for water, and the people murmured against Moses, and said, “Why did you bring us up out of Egypt, to kill us and our children and our cattle with thirst?” So Moses cried to the Lord, “What shall I do with this people? They are almost ready to stone me.” And the Lord said to Moses, “Pass on before the people, taking with you some of the elders of Israel; and take in your hand the rod with which you struck the Nile, and go. Behold, I will stand before you there on the rock at Horeb; and you shall strike the rock, and water shall come out of it, that the people may drink.” And Moses did so, in the sight of the elders of Israel. And he called the name of the place Massah and Meribah, because of the fault-finding of the children of Israel, and because they put the Lord to the test by saying, “Is the Lord among us or not?”
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Psalm 95: 1-2.6-7abc.7d—9 (R. cf. 7d, 8a)
R/. O that today you would listen to his voice! Harden not your hearts.
Come, let us ring out our joy to the Lord;
hail the rock who saves us.
Let us come into his presence, giving thanks;
let us hail him with a song of praise. R/.
O come; let us bow and bend low.
Let us kneel before the God who made us,
for he is our God and we
the peop1e who belong to his pasture,
the flock that is led by his hand. R/.
R/. O that today you would listen to his voice! Harden not your hearts.
O that today you would listen to his voice!
“Harden not your hearts as at Meribah,
as on that day at Massah in the desert
when your forebears put me to the test;
when they tried me,
though they saw my work.” R/.
-SECOND READING-
“God’s love has been poured into our hearts through the Holy Spirit who has been given to us.”
A reading from the Letter of Saint Paul to the Romans (Romans 5:1 -2.5-8)
Brethren: Since we are justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ. Through him we have obtained access to this grace in which we stand, and we rejoice in our hope of sharing the glory of God. And hope does not disappoint us, because God’s love has been poured into our hearts through the Holy Spirit who has been given to us. While we were yet helpless, at the right time Christ died for the ungodly. Why, one will hardly die for a righteous man — though perhaps for a good man one will dare even to die. But God shows his love for us in that while we were yet sinners Christ died for us.
The word of the Lord.
VERSE BEFORE THE GOSPEL John 4:42.15
Glory and praise to you, O Christ. Lord, you are truly the Saviour of the world; give me living water, that I may not thirst. Glory and praise to you, O Christ.
-GOSPEL-
“Aspiring of water welling up to eternal life.”
A reading from the holy Gospel according to John (John 4: 5-42)
At that time: Jesus came to a city of Samaria, called Sychar, near the field that Jacob gave to his son Joseph. Jacob’s well was there, and so Jesus, wearied as he was with his journey, sat down beside the well. It was about the sixth hour. There came a woman of Samaria to draw water. Jesus said to her, “Give me a drink.” For his disciples had gone away into the city to buy food. The Samaritan woman said to him, “How is it that you, a Jew, ask a drink of me, a woman of Samaria?” For Jews have no dealings with Samaritans. Jesus answered her, “If you knew the gift of God, and who it is that is saying to you, ‘Give me a drink,’ you would have asked him and he would have given you living water.” The woman said to him, “Sir, you have nothing to draw with, and the well is deep; where do you get that living water? Are you greater than our father Jacob, who gave us the well, and drank from it himself, and his sons, and his cattle?” Jesus said to her, “Every one who drinks of this water will thirst again, but whoever drinks of the water that I shall give him will never thirst; the water that I shall give him will become in him a spring of water welling up to eternal life.” The woman said to him, “Sir, give me this water, that I may not thirst, nor come here to draw.” *
Jesus said to her, “Go, call your husband, and come here.” The woman answered him, “I have no husband.” Jesus said to her, “You are right in saying, ‘I have no husband’; for you have had five husbands, and he whom you now have is not your husband; this you said truly.”
The woman said to him, “Sir, I perceive that you are a prophet. Our fathers worshipped on this mountain; and you say that in Jerusalem is the place where men ought to worship.” Jesus said to her, “Woman, believe me, the hour is coming when neither on this mountain nor in Jerusalem will you worship the Father. You worship what you do not know; we worship what we know, for salvation is from the Jews. But the hour is coming, and now is, when the true worshippers will worship the Father in spirit and truth, for such the Father seeks to worship him. God is spirit, and those who worship him must worship in spirit and truth.” The woman said to him, “I know that Messiah is coming (he who is called Christ); when he comes, he will show us all things.” Jesus said to her, “I who speak to you am he.” *
Just then his disciples came. They marvelled that he was talking with a woman, but none said, “What do you wish?” or, “Why are you talking with her?” So the woman left her water jar, and went away into the city, and said to the people, “Come, see a man who told me all that I ever did. Can this be the Christ?” They went out of the city and were coming to him. Meanwhile the disciples begged him, saying, “Rabbi, eat.” But he said to them, “I have food to eat of which you do not know.” So the disciples said to one another, “Has any one brought him food?” Jesus said to them, “My food is to do the will of him who sent me, and to accomplish his work. Do you not say, ‘There are yet four months, then comes the harvest’? I tell you, lift up your eyes, and see how the fields are already white for harvest. He who reaps receives wages, and gathers fruit for eternal life, so that sower and reaper may rejoice together. For here the saying holds true, ‘One sows and another reaps.’ I sent you to reap that for which you did not labour; others have laboured, and you have entered into their labour.”
* Many Samaritans from that city believed in him because of the woman’s testimony, “He told me all that I ever did.” So when the Samaritans came to him, they asked him to stay with them; and he stayed there two days. And many more believed because of his word, They said to the woman, “It is no longer because of your words that we believe, for we have heard for ourselves, and we know that this is indeed the Saviour of the world.”
The Gospel of the Lord. *
Shorter form: John 4:5- 15.19b-26.39a.40-42. Read between *
PRAYER OF THE FAITHFUL
Celebrant:
Dear brethren, our Lord assures us that whoever drinks of the water that he gives shall never thirst. Conscious of this truth, let us pray that we may realize that true satisfaction comes from uniting ourselves with Christ and for our other needs.
FOR THE CHURCH: that as she journeys through this holy season of lent, she may continue to be the living witness of the life which Christ brings. Let us pray to the Lord.
FOR THOSE IN GOVERNMENT: that they may work harder towards ensuring that all peoples have access to water and other resources needed for daily living. Let us pray to the Lord.
FOR THE SICK AND THEIR CAREGIVERS: that they may know the compassionate love of Jesus who is our life and health. Let us pray to the Lord.
FOR OURSELVES: that, during this season of lent, we may forsake our sinful ways and unite ourselves the more with Christ, the living water, who alone can give us true satisfaction. Let us pray to the Lord.
FOR OTHER INTENTIONS: (the sick, church projects or other activities).
FOR THE DEAD: Especially those of our parish community and family members: that they may find eternal rest with the Lord. Let us pray to the Lord.
We pray in silence for our private intentions.
Celebrant:
Lord our god, in you alone do our hearts find rest. Help us to walk with you as we journey through this world, that we may come to reign eternally with you in heaven. Through Christ our Lord.
R/. Amen.
TODAY’S REFLECTION
"I have seen the miserable state of my people...and heard their appeal to be free.. I am well aware of their sufferings. I mean to deliver them." These are words of hope for the people of Israel under bondage in Egypt. Moses is commissioned to reassure them of God's nearness and saving power, God is not deaf or blind, unfeeling or indifferent to what is happening with us. His name is "I am who I am" - the one and only - who is there always for us and with us. Knowledge and experience of the abiding presence of God demand not complacency but radical transformation of life and attitude (Exodus/Metanoia), "Unless you repent you will all perish as they did" may be threatening, but it reminds us that God's presence is grace - opportunity to bear fruit of repentance and be saved. If only we could cooperate with God's grace by bearing good fruit!
PERSONAL DEVOTIONAL FOR LENT
Food and drink is good for the body when taken in proportion to what the body needs to function to maximum capacity. However, when you let food and drink control you or you take it more than you need it or less than you need it, you will definitely have a problem. The watch-word is to do it with moderation. Before you eat or drink, first ask yourself, do you need it and how much of it do you need? Then, remember that when you share what you have as food and drink with others who do not have to eat and drink, you make the world a better place.
Today, When you place that food before you to eat and that drink too, remember that you only need a little of it to function well and be healthy and when you try to share it with those who do not have, you will be doing what Jesus did in the Scripture.
Let Us Pray,
Lord give me your food that lasts forever, and give the grace also, to share the food I have freely with those that don't have in the community.
Monday, March 13, 2023
Weekday of Lent 3
Mass prop. Preface of Lent
Vestment: Violet
Today’s Rosary: Joyful Mystery
DEATH ANNIVERSARY: LAGOS: Bishop John Kwao Aggey 13/03/72
ENTRANCE ANTIPHON
My soul is longing and yearning for the courts of the Lord. My heart and my flesh cry out to the living God.
COLLECT
May your unfailing compassion, O Lord, cleanse and protect your Church, and since without you she cannot stand secure, may she be always governed by your grace. Through our Lord..
-FIRST READING-
“There were many lepers in Israel, but none was cleansed, but only Naaman the Syrian.”
A reading from the second Book of Kings (2 kings 5:1-15a)
In those days: Naaman, commander of the army of the king of Syria, was a great man with his master and in high favour, because by him the Lord had given victory to Syria. He was a mighty man of valour, but he was a leper. Now the Syrians on one of their raids had carried off a little maid from the land of Israel, and she waited on Naaman’s wife. She said to her mistress, “Would that my Lord were with the prophet who is in Samaria! He would cure him of his leprosy.” So Naaman went in and told his Lord, “Thus and so spoke the maiden from the land of Israel.” And the king of Syria said, “Go now, and I will send a letter to the king of Israel.” So he went, taking with him ten talents of silver, six thousand shekels of gold, and ten festal garments. And he brought the letter to the king of Israel, which read, “When this letter reaches you, know that I have sent to you Naaman my servant, that you may cure him of his leprosy.” And when the king of Israel read the letter, he tore his clothes and said, “Am I God, to kill and to make alive, that this man sends word to me to cure a man of his leprosy? Only consider, and see how he is seeking a quarrel with me.” But when Elisha the man of God heard that the king of Israel had torn his clothes, he sent to the king, saying, “Why have you torn your clothes? Let him come to me, that he may know that there is a prophet in Israel.” So Naaman came with his horses and chariots, and halted at the door of Elisha’s house. And Elisha sent a messenger to him, saying, “Go and wash in the Jordan seven times, and your flesh shall be restored, and you shall be clean.” But Naaman was angry, and went away, saying, “Behold, I thought that he would surely come to me, and stand, and call on the name of the Lord his God, and wave his hand over the place, and cure the leper. Are not Abana and Pharpar, the rivers of Damascus, better than all the waters of Israel? Could I not wash in them, and be clean?” So he turned and went away in a rage. But his servants came near and said to him, “My father, if the prophet had commanded you to do some great thing, would you not have done it? How much rather, then, when he says to you, ’wash and be clean’?” So he went down and dipped himself seven times in the Jordan, according to the word of the man of God; and his flesh was restored like the flesh of a little child, and he went clean. Then he returned to the man of God, he and all his company, and he came and stood before him; and he said, “Behold, I know that there is no God in all the earth but in Israel.”
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Psalm42:2.3; 43:3.4 (R. 42:3)
R/. My soul is thirsting for God, the living God.
When can I enter and appear before the face of God?
Like The deer that yearns
for running streams,
so my soul is yearning
for you, my God. R/.
My soul is thirsting for God,
The living God;
When can I enter and appear
Before the face of God? R/.
R/. My soul is thirsting for God, the living God.
When can I enter and appear before the face of God?
O send forth your light and your truth;
They will guide me on.
They will bring me to your holy mountain,
To the place where you dwell. R/.
And I will come to the altar of God,
To God, my joy and gladness.
To you will I give thanks on the harp,
O God, my God. R/.
VERSE BEFORE THE GOSPEL Psalm130:5.7
Glory and praise to you, O Christ.
I wait for the Lord, and in his word I hope; with him is mercy and plenteous redemption.
Glory and praise to you, O Christ.
-GOSPEL-
Like Elijah and Elisha Jesus is not sent only to the Jews.
A reading from the holy Gospel according to Luke (Luke4:24-30)
At that time: when Jesus had come to Nazareth, he said to the people in the synagogue, “Truly, I say to you, no prophet is acceptable in his own country. But in truth, I tell you, there were many widows in Israel in the days of Elijah, when the heaven was shut up three years and six months, when there came a great famine over all the land; and Elijah was sent to none of them but only to Zarephath, in the land of Sidon, to a woman who was a widow. And there were many lepers in Israel in the time of the prophet Elisha; and none of them was cleansed but only Naaman the Syrian. When they heard this, all in the synagogue were filled with wrath. And they rose up and put him out of the city, and led him to the brow of the hill on which their city was built, that they might throw him down headlong. But passing through the midst of them he went away.
The Gospel of the Lord.
TODAY’S REFLECTION
When you are doing well, and you have won the approval of many people, the expectation is that the people closest to you, your kith and kin, will be among them. According to Jesus in today’s Gospel, that expectation is not always met. As a matter of fact, your own people can be offended by your very success. More often than not, it is because they know you only too well. As the saying goes, “Familiarity breeds contempt.” The lack of recognition by his people did not deter Jesus from carrying on with his mission of salvation. The lack of recognition by people should not stop a disciple of Jesus from doing whatever good he has been sent to do.
PERSONAL DEVOTIONAL FOR LENT DAY 18
There is never a time the Lord rejoices at the death of a sinner or a wicked person. Instead, He wills that a sinner should repent and return back to Him. If the Lord should mark our iniquity the Psalmist says, none of us will stand before Him. However, He gives us opportunity to turn away from our evil ways and live.
True repentance and reconciliation begins with honest and sincere acknowledgement of the sins we have committed and be truly sorry for them, then we make a resolve to leave our old life behind and become a new person in Christ.
True repentance comes with the desire to love like Jesus and be willing to make sacrifices for the good of the other. If this is not our goal, then, it will be very difficult for us to do what will be acceptable and pleasing to the Lord.
Let Us Pray,
God, with your help all things are possible, please help me Lord.
Tuesday, March 14, 2023
Weekday of Lent (3)
Office- Psalter Week 3
Mass prop., Preface of Lent
Vestment: Violet
Today’s Rosary: The Sorrowful Mystery
-FIRST READING-
“With a contrite heart and a humble spirit may we be accepted.”
A reading from the Book of the Prophet Daniel (Daniel 3:2.11-20)
In those days: Azariah stood and offered this prayer; in the midst of the fire he opened his mouth and said: “For your name’s sake do not give us up utterly, and do not break your covenant, and do not withdraw your mercy from us, for the sake of Abraham your beloved and for the sake of Isaac your servant and Israel your holy one, to whom you promised to make their descendants as many as the stars of heaven and as the sand on the shore of the sea. For we, O Lord, have become fewer than any nation, and are brought low this day in all the world because of our sins. And at this time there is no prince, or prophet, or leader, no burnt offering, or sacrifice, or oblation, or incense, no place to make an offering before you or to find mercy. Yet with a contrite heart and a humble spirit may we be accepted, as though it were with burnt offerings of rams and bulls, and with tens of thousands of fat lambs; such may our sacrifice be in your sight this day, and may we wholly follow you, for there will be no shame for those who trust in you. And now with all our heart we follow you, we fear you and seek your face. Do not put us to shame, but deal with us in your forbearance and in your abundant mercy. Deliver us in accordance with your marvellous works, and give glory to your name, O Lord!”
The Word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Psalm 25:4-Sab.6 and 7cd.8-9 (R. 6a)
R/. Remember your compassion, O Lord.
O Lord, make me know your ways.
Teach me your paths.
Guide me in your truth, and teach me;
for you are the God of my salvation. R/.
Remember your compassion, O Lord,
and your merciful love,
for they are from of old.
In your merciful love remember me,
because of your goodness, O Lord. R.
R/. Remember your compassion, O Lord.
Good and upright is the Lord;
he shows the way to sinners.
He guides the humble in right judgement;
to ‘the humble he teaches his way. R/.
VERSE BEFORE THE GOSPEL Joel 2: 12-13
Glory and praise to you, O Christ.
Even now, says the Lord, return to me with all your heart, for I am gracious and merciful.
Glory and praise to you, O Christ.
-GOSPEL-
If you do not forgive your brother from your heart, the Father will not forgive you,
A reading from the holy Gospel according to Matthew (Matthew 18:21-35)
At that time: Peter came up and said to Jesus, “Lord, how often shall my brother sin against me, and I forgive him? As many as seven times?” Jesus said to him, “I do not say to you seven times, but seventy times seven. “Therefore the kingdom of heaven may be compared to a king who wished to settle accounts with his servants. When he began the reckoning, one was brought to him who owed him ten thousand talents; and as he could not pay, his lord ordered him to be sold, with his wife and children and all that he had, and payment to be made. So the servant fell on his knees, imploring him, ‘Lord, have patience with me, and I will pay you everything.’ “And out of pity for him the lord of that servant released him and forgave him the debt. But that same servant, as he went out, came upon one of his fellow servants who owed him a hundred denarii; and seizing him by the throat he said, ‘Pay what you owe.’ So his fellow servant fell down and pleaded with him, ‘Have patience with me, and I will pay you.’ “He refused and went and put him in prison till he should pay the debt. When his fellow servants saw what had taken place, they were greatly distressed, and they went and reported to their lord all that had taken place. Then his lord summoned him and said to him, ‘You wicked servant! I forgave you all that debt because you pleaded with me; and should not you have had mercy on your fellow servant, as I had mercy on you? And in anger his lord delivered him to the jailers, till he should pay all his debt. So also my heavenly Father will do to every one of you, if you do not forgive your brother from your heart.”
The Gospel of the Lord.
TODAY’S REFLECTION
From the time of Cain and Abel to this day, man has always been wicked to his fellow man. If given the chance, man would destroy all life on earth. A man who owed his master a lot of money was forgiven of his debt but he turned out to be underserving of such mercy because he couldn’t also forgive his fellow servant who owed him much less.
As a rule of thumb, ALWAYS GIVE WHAT YOU LIKE TO RECEIVE. This is the only way to avoid ugly incidences. Never utter a word to a person that you wouldn’t like to hear being spoken to you. Never wish anything for someone that you do not pray to happen to you. Treat everyone you meet on a daily basis just as you wish God to treat you. Take it that you are the God other people are looking up to and you have the power to create your future by the way you treat the people who come in contact with you every day. What do you expect from God? Have you taken out time to examine the things you want God to do for you or how you expect God to behave when you offend him? Then begin today to treat your fellow human beings according to your expectations from God.
There is already enough wickedness and violence in this world; even violence being perpetrated in the name of religion. Let our Christianity reflect in our ability to love our fellow brothers and sisters just as Jesus Christ loved us; that even though we were sinners, even though we were at enmity with God, Christ gave up his life for our sake. Without this love, we dare not address ourselves as Christians anymore.
Our church-going must go beyond loud prayers for prosperity, it must go beyond all nights and crusades, it must go beyond miracle sessions and all that entertainment that goes on in the name of worshipping God. Let us begin to show our Christianity by forgiving one another. Let our Christianity reveal itself by our treatment of other people just as Christ treated humanity.
PERSONAL DEVOTIONAL FOR LENT DAY 19
The human person is beautifully made by God with dignity and gifted in different ways with unique potentialities and when we act, we must take this into consideration so as not to cause harm to the dignity, respect and self-esteem of the people we come in contact with.
Today, put a smile on the face of anyone around you and say words that will give them hope and encouragement.
Let us pray:
Lord Jesus, help me realise that whatever I give out in thoughts, words, and deeds is exactly what I should expect from you. Amen.
Wednesday March 15, 2023
Weekday of Lent (3)
Office- Psalter Week 3
Mass prop., Preface of Lent
Vestment: Violet
Today’s Rosary: The Glorious Mystery
-FIRST READING-
Keep the commandments, and your work will be complete.
A reading from the Book of Deuteronomy (Deuteronomy 4:1.5-9)
Moses spoke to the people, saying, “And now, O Israel, give heed to the statutes and the ordinances which I teach you, and do them; that you may live, and go in and take possession of the land which the Lord, the God of your fathers, gives you. Behold, I have taught you statutes and ordinances, as the Lord my God commanded me, that you should do them in the land which you are entering to take possession of it. ‘Keep them and do them; for that will be your wisdom and your understanding in the sight of the peoples, who, when they hear all these statutes, will say, ‘Surely this great nation is a wise and understanding people.’ For what great nation is there that has a god so near to it as the Lord our God is to us, whenever we call upon him? And what great nation is there, that has statutes and ordinances so righteous as all this law which I set before you this day? “Only take heed, and keep your soul diligently, lest you forget the things which your eyes have seen, and lest they depart from your heart all the days of your life; make them known to your children and your children’s children.”
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Psalm 147: 12-13.15-16. 19-20 (R. 12a)
R/. O Jerusalem, glorify the Lord!
O Jerusalem, glorify the Lord!
O Sion, praise your God!
He has strengthened the bars of your gates;
he has blessed your children within you. R/.
He sends out his word to the earth,
and swiftly runs his command.
He showers down snow like wool;
he scatters hoarfrost like ashes. R/.
R/. O Jerusalem, glorify the Lord!
He reveals his word to Jacob;
to Israel, his decrees and judgements.
He has not dealt thus with other nations;
he has not taught them his judgements. R/.
VERSE BEFORE THE GOSPEL John 6:63c.68c
Glory and praise to you, O Christ.
Your words, Lord, are Spirit and life; you have the words of eternal life.
Glory and praise to you, O Christ.
-GOSPEL-
He who does them and teaches them shall be called great.
A reading from the holy Gospel according to Matthew (Matthew 5: 17-19)
At that time: Jesus said to his disciples, “Do not think that I have come to abolish the law and the prophets; I have come not to abolish them but to fulfil them. For truly, I say to you, till heaven and earth pass away, not an iota, not a dot, will pass from the law until all is accomp1ished. Whoever then relaxes one of the least of these commandments and teaches men so, shall be called least in the kingdom of heaven; but he who does them and teaches them shall be called great in the kingdom of heaven.”
The Gospel of the Lord.
TODAY’S REFLECTION
“A thing of beauty is a joy forever.” God gave commandments to the Israelites through Moses. Those commandments were so sound that Moses believed people of other nations would marvel at them. They would stand the test of time, and continue to be binding for all time to come. Jesus says exactly that in today’s Gospel: he did not come to abolish the old order, but to fulfill it. The spirit of man is such that it is always yearning for new things. However, in our quest for new things, we will always be well advised to bring along whatever may be of enduring value in the old. That is how the Old Testament is part of the Christian Bible, and the Ten Commandments continue to be binding not only on the Jewish people, but on all humankind. It is also the reason why the Catholic Church affirms Sacred Tradition to be an authentic source of faith and morals, alongside Sacred Scripture.
PERSONAL DEVOTIONAL FOR LENT DAY 20
No one intentionally chooses to face challenges and difficulties in life. However, no matter who we are, difficulties and challenges will always come our way at certain points in our lives. The choices we make could also play a part in what comes to us. Therefore, we should try to help one another to cope in times of difficulty. What you suffer may be different from what I suffer, but solidarity could be of immense help in overcoming our pain and sorrow. Do not stand aloof when you see others suffering, try to do something to help and God will be happy with you. It only takes the will and determination to help someone and you can really do something to help if you choose to.
Today, try to put your love for God into action, by doing something, no matter how small, about that need in the life of a brother or a sister and in your own time of need, God will also send you a helper.
Let us Pray:
Lord Jesus, increase my trust in you and help me to obey. Amen.
Thursday March 16, 2023
Weekday of Lent (3)
Office- Psalter Week 3
Mass prop. Preface of Lent
Vestment: Violet
Today’s Rosary: The Luminous Mystery
-FIRST READING-
“This is the nation that did not obey the voice of the Lord their God.”
A reading from the Book of Jeremiah (Jeremiah 7:23-28)
Thus says the Lord: “This command I gave my people, ‘Obey my voice, and I will be your God, and you shall be my people; and walk in all the way that I command you, that it may be well with you.’ But they did not obey or incline their ear, but walked in their own counsels and the stubbornness of their evil hearts, and went backward and not forward. From the day that your fathers came out of the land of Egypt to this day, I have persistently sent all my servants the prophets to them, day after day; yet they did not listen to me, or incline their ear, but stiffened their neck. They did worse than their fathers. “So you shall speak all these words to them, but they will not listen to you. You shall call to them, but they will not answer you. And you shall say to them, ‘This is the nation that did not obey the voice of the LORD their God, and did not accept discipline; truth has perished; it is cut off from their lips.”’
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Psalm 95: 1-2.6-7abc.7d-9 (R. 7d-8a)
R/. O that today you would listen to his voice! Harden not your hearts.
Come, let us ring out our joy to the Lord;
hail the rock who saves us.
Let us come into his presence, giving thanks;
let us hail him with a song of praise. R/.
O come; let us bow and bend low.
Let us kneel before the God who made us,
for he is our God and we
the people who belong to his pasture,
the flock that is led by his hand. R/.
R/. O that today you would listen to his voice! Harden not your hearts.
O that today you would listen to his voice!
“Harden not your hearts as at Meribah,
as on that day at Massah in the desert
when your forebears put me to the test;
when they tried me, though they saw my work.” R/.
VERSE BEFORE THE GOSPEL Joel 2:12-13
Glory and praise to you, O Christ.
Even now, says the Lord, return to me with all your heart, for I am gracious and merciful.
Glory and praise to you, O Christ.
-GOSPEL-
“He who is not with rue is against me.”
A reading from the holy Gospel according to Luke 11:14-23
At that time: Jesus was casting out a demon that was mute; when the demon had gone out, the mute man spoke, and the people marvelled. But some of them said, “He casts out demons by Beelzebul, the prince of demons”; while others, to test him, sought from him a sign from heaven. But he, knowing their thoughts, said to them, “Every kingdom divided against itself is laid waste, and house falls upon house. And if Satan also is divided against himself, how will his kingdom stand? For you say that I cast out demons by Beelzebul. And if I cast out demons by Beelzebul, by whom do your sons cast them out? Therefore they shall be your judges. But if it is by the finger of God that I cast out demons, then the kingdom of God has come upon you. When a strong man, fully armed, guards his own palace, his goods are in peace; but when one stronger than he assails him and overcomes him, he takes away his armour in which he trusted, and divides his spoil. He who is not with me is against me, and he who does not gather with me scatters.”
The Gospel of the Lord.
TODAY’S REFLECTION
All the money in the world are not enough to turn even one single lie to the truth. What is false can never suddenly become truth just because this person or that person says it. Truth is truth anytime, anywhere, any day. Truth has no expiry date but a lie dies once the truth is exposed. It is very sad how we who claim to be children of God, (we who say we are Christians; followers of Christ who is the Way, the Truth and the Life), would be aware of the truth yet would still turn around to lie.
The healing of this man ought to give confirmation to the words of Jesus about his identity as the Son of God, the Messiah and Saviour of Mankind; the one whose kingdom is stronger and greater than that of the devil. The healing of this man was a sign that God’s kingdom has come in the midst of men.
However, this truth was too loud to be accepted by those who would not accept Jesus as God. They knew the truth but upon realizing its implications, they found a way to twist the truth to suit their prejudice about Jesus. They turned things around by creating a lie aimed at damaging the reputation of Jesus and making him look like an ordinary man. They went about saying that Jesus was casting out demons by the prince of demons. This same group of liars would be responsible for paying the soldiers who were guarding the tomb of Jesus to lie to Herod and the whole world that the body of Jesus was stolen by his disciples three days after his death. They just couldn’t accept the truth. However, we must know that there is nothing we can do to fight the truth.
If you hear anything about a person especially an information that damages the person’s personality, don’t rush to believe it. Remember it happened to Jesus Christ; it can happen to anybody. Go to the person and find out the truth before you draw a conclusion.
Finally, I beg you. Stop sharing posts on social media without first confirming if they are true or not. Don’t become a tool in the hands of the wicked ones in spreading falsehood.
PERSONAL DEVOTIONAL FOR LENT DAY 22
What makes you to want to have everything to yourself even when you know that what you have will be enough for everyone is simply greed and selfishness. A selfish person only thinks of himself and in doing that, he or she feels that inner joy and satisfaction comes from having everything all to yourself, but in most cases the end result is emptiness and pain. You can end up packing all the food in the buffet table in picnic that it will not get to you and fill your plate, only to realise later that a fresh and sumptuous portion has been given to those you thought you played a smart one upon.
Today, try as much as you can to consider others and share with them the good things of life that come to your way. Let it go round and you will be much happy and satisfied in the end.
Let us Pray:
Lord Jesus, help me remain committed to the truth. Amen.
Friday March 17, 2023
Office: Prop,. Te Deum
Mass prop., Gloria. Preface of Pastors
Vestment: White
Today’s Rosary: The Sorrowful Mystery
-FIRST READING-
“As each has received a gift, employ it for one another.”
A reading from the first Letter of Saint Peter (1 Peter 4:7b—11)
Beloved: Keep sane and sober for your prayers. Above all hold unfailing your love for one another, since love covers a multitude of sins. Practice hospitality ungrudgingly to one another. As each has received a gift, employ it for one another, as good stewards of God’s varied grace: whoever speaks, as one who utters oracles of God; whoever renders service, as one who renders it by the strength which God supplies; in order that in everything God may be glorified through Jesus Christ. To him belong glory and dominion for ever and ever. Amen.
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Ps 96: 1-2a.2b-3.7-8a.9-10a and c (R. cf. 3)
R/. Tell among all the peoples the wonders of the Lord!
O sing a new song to the Lord;
sing to the Lord, all the earth.
O sing to the Lord; bless his name. R/.
Proclaim his salvation day by day.
Tell among the nations his glory,
and his wonders among all the peoples. R/.
Give the Lord, you families of peoples,
give the Lord glory and power;
give the Lord the glory of his name. R/.
Say to the nations, “The Lord is King,”
The world he made firm in its place;
he will judge the peoples in fairness, R/.
Glory and praise to you, O Christ
Glory and praise to you, O Christ. Follow me, says the Lord, and I will make you become fishers of men. Glory and praise to you, O Christ.
-GOSPEL-
“At your word I will let’ down the nets.”
A reading from the holy Gospel according to Luke (Luke 5:1-11)
At that time: While the people pressed upon Jesus to hear the word of God, he was standing by the lake of Gennesaret. And he saw two boats by the lake; but the fishermen had gone out of them and were washing their nets. Getting into one of the boats, which was Simon’s, he asked him to put out a little from the land. And he sat down and taught the people from the boat. And when he had ceased speaking, he said to Simon, “Put out into the deep and let down your nets for a catch.” And Simon answered, “Master, we toiled all night and took nothing! But at your word I will let down the nets.” And when they had done this, they enclosed a great shoal of fish; and as their nets were breaking, they beckoned to their partners in the other boat to come and help them. And they came and filled both the boats, so that they began to sink. But when Simon Peter saw it, he fell down at Jesus’ knees, saying, “Depart from me, for I am a sinful man, O Lord.” For he was astonished, and all that were with him, at the catch of fish which they had taken; and so also were James and John, sons of Zebedee, who were partners with Simon. And Jesus said to Simon, “Do not be afraid; hence forth you will be catching men.” And when they had brought their boats to land, they left everything and followed him.
The Gospel of the Lord.
PRAYER OF THE FAITHFUL
Celebrant:
God our Father chose Saint Patrick to bring people of different nations into the kingdom of Christ by his fervent preaching. Let us pray that, in our ordinary lives, we may be committed to the proclamation of the Gospel.
FOR THE MINISTERS OF THE CHURCH: that, following the example of Saint Patrick, they may give witness to Christ by living in a way that is consistent with the faith they proclaim. We pray O Lord.
FOR THOSE IN CIVIL AUTHORITY: that they may not be sectional in relating to the people they are serving, but may always strive to promote inter-ethnic and inter-religious relationships. We pray O Lord.
FOR MISSIONARIES: that like Saint Patrick they may be willing and zealous to follow the prompting of the Holy Spirit in their mission to spread the Good News of salvation. We pray O Lord.
FOR THE SPIRIT TO FORGIVE: that, inspired by the example of Saint Patrick, who forgave his abductors and chose to go back as a missionary to them, we may have the grace to forgive those who offend us. We pray O Lord.
For other intentions: (the sick, church projects or other activities).
For the dead, especially those of our parish community and family members: that they may rest in peace. We pray O Lord.
We pray in silence for our private intentions.
Celebrant:
God our Father, you built your church on the faith of the Apostles and have continued to nourish us through the sacraments. Grant that we may hold firm to the faith and make your message known through all the earth. Through Christ our Lord.
R/. Amen.
TODAY'S REFLECTION
Simon and his companions were professional fishermen. They knew that the best time to catch fish was during the night. That was what they had tried to do all night without success. When it was daylight, a man who was not a fisherman but a carpenter told them to go out fishing again. The fishermen did not think it was a good idea, but they did not want to disrespect Jesus. Their compliance brought in a miraculous haul of fish beyond their imagination. That was enough for them to leave everything and follow Jesus to become fishers of men. Countless men and women since that time have left everything to follow Jesus and become fishers of men. We remember St. Patrick today, a man who like Peter fully explored his spiritual potentials making such a huge catch of souls in Ireland. So much so that the faith was firmly established in that country. Virtually every family had a priest or sister.
And by extension, we are eternally grateful to the Irish missionaries who evangelized our country Nigeria. Through one man St. Patrick, millions have been touched. Do you know what you are capable of doing if you just let your light shine?
TODAY’S SAINT AND QUOTE: ST PATRICK – March 17th
- Christ beside me, Christ before me, Christ behind me, Christ within me, Christ beneath me, Christ above me.
- The Lord opened the understanding of my unbelieving heart, so that I should recall my sins.
PERSONAL DEVOTIONAL FOR LENT DAY 23
Accepting yourself the way you are is the best way to go in developing oneself. If you reject yourself it will be very difficult for you to develop. Know it today that you are the only copy of yourself in the whole world, that is to say, you are uniquely made by God and God did not make any mistake in creating you. Therefore, see yourself as the best of God and then work hard everyday to represent the one who has made you to be the best.
Today, cheer yourself up and say to yourself, "I am the best of my kind" strive to be the best always without trying to undermine others. Stay unique as you are created by God and continue to make our world more beautiful with your personality.
Let us pray:
Lord Jesus, I am created in your image and likeness, I surrender my all to you. Amen.
Saturday March 18, 2023
ST CYRIL OF JERUSALEM, B.D. (Opt. Commem.)
Office: Psalter Week 3
Mass prop., Preface of Lent
Vestment: Violet
Today’s Rosary: The Joyful Mystery
Tomorrow is the 10th Anniversary of the Solemn Inauguration of the Pontificate of Pope Francis (19 March, 2013). In all Masses, a Special intention for the Holy Father should be inserted into the Prayer of the Faithful.
Vespers I of the 4th Sunday of Lent
ENTRANCE ANTIPHON
Bless the Lord, O my soul, and never forget all his benefits; it is he who forgives all your sins.
COLLECT
Rejoicing in this annual celebration of our Lenten observance, we pray, O Lord, that with our hearts set on the paschal mysteries, we may be gladdened by their full effects. Through our Lord.
-FIRST READING-
“I desire mercy and not sacrifice.”
A reading from the Book of the Prophet Hosea (Hosea 6:1-6)
“Come, let us return to the Lord; for he has torn, that he may heal us; he has stricken, and he will bind us up. After two days he will revive us; on the third day he will raise us up, that we may live before him. Let us know, let us press on to know the Lord; his going forth is sure as the dawn; he will come to us as the showers, as the spring rains that water the earth.” What shall I do with you, O Ephraim? What shall I do with you, O Judah? Your love is like a morning cloud, like the dew that goes early away. Therefore I have hewn them by the prophets, I have slain them by the words of my mouth, and my judgement goes forth as the light. For I desire mercy and not sacrifice, the knowledge of God, rather than burnt offerings.
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Psalm51:3-4.18-19.20-21ab
R/. I desire mercy, and not sacrifice.
Have mercy on me, O God,
According to your merciful love;
According to your great compassion,
Blot out my transgressions.
Wash me completely from my iniquity,
And cleanse me from my sin. R/.
For in sacrifice you take no delight;
Burnt offering from me would not please you.
My sacrifice to God, a broken spirit:
A broken and humble heart,
O God, you will not spurn. R/.
R/. I desire mercy, and not sacrifice.
In your good pleasure, show favour to Sion;
Rebuild the walls of Jerusalem.
Then you will delight in right sacrifice,
Burnt offering wholly consumed. R/.
VERSE BEFORE THE GOSPEL Psalm95:7d.8a
Glory and praise to you, O Christ. Today, harden not your hearts, but listen to the voice of the Lord. Glory and praise to you, O Christ.
-GOSPEL-
The tax collector went down to his house justified rather than the Pharisee.
A reading from the Holy Gospel according to Luke (Luke 18;9-14)
At that time: Jesus told this parable to some who trusted in themselves that they were righteous and despised others: “Two men went up into the temple to pray, one a Pharisee and the other a tax collector. The Pharisee stood and prayed thus with himself, ‘God, I thank you that I am not like other men, extortioners, unjust, adulterers, or even like this tax collector. I fast twice a week, I give tithes of all that I get.’ “But the tax collector, standing far off, would not even lift up his eyes to heaven, but beat his breast, saying, ‘God, be merciful to me a sinner!’ “I tell you, this man went down to his house justified rather than the other; for every one who exalts himself will be humbled, but he who humbles himself will be exalted.”
The Gospel of the Lord.
TODAY’S REFLECTION
The Pharisees in today’s Gospel did a lot of good things. But he was not sure whether God knew it. So he had to inform God! He lacked one very important virtue, humility. And God knew that, though the man himself didn’t. The tax collector was the exact opposite. He had done a lot of bad things. He knew it, and God knew it too. But he had the humility to acknowledge his shortcomings, and beg for forgiveness. God answered his prayer. No one is ever so good and righteous that he does not need God’s mercy. We should always approach him with a humble and contrite heart, like the tax collector.
Personal Devotional for Lent Day 24
Idleness is one of the easiest way to 'rot' as a human being. God is not idle and he does not expect us to be either. When you let what your life becomes be determined by others you may end up being idle for the rest of your life, but when you take control of your life in a positive sense, you will see the need to work hard and not be idle. There is a lot you can do to keep yourself busy and when you are busy doing something worthwhile with your time, you will not have the chance to think of frivolities.
Today, try and engage yourself in something good and positive and never patronise idleness. By working hard today, you will leave a lasting legacy to our world when you depart.
Let us pray;
Lord Jesus, teach me to be content with all I have, help me examine my heart diligently and root out my own demons rather than become possessed with those of others. Amen
Sunday March 19, 2023
Fourth Sunday of Lent (A)
LAETARE SUNDAY
Office- Psalter Week 4
Mass prop., Creed. Preface of Lent
Vestment: Violet or Rose
Today’s Rosary: Glorious Mystery
Vesper II of Fourth Sunday of Lent
The Forth Sunday of Lent is traditionally known as “Laetare Sunday” it is so called from the first word of the antiphon at the introit (Entrance Antiphon), “Latare” (Rejoice) taken from the Latin translation of Isaiah 66:10-11, Set a tone of joyful anticipation of the Easter Mystery as does the permitted use of rose-colored vestment.
THEME OF THE SUNDAY: The Christian
A Person Who “Has Received the Light.” The Christians of the first centuries used to call those who received Baptism during the Easter Vigil the “enlightened.” The theme of light is found in the three readings of today. The first reading tells us that whoever has not received the light judges things through human eyes; in reality he cannot see at all. The Gospel tells us how to reach the light. The second reading completes this theme by telling us what we should do to defeat darkness.
-FIRST READING-
David is anointed king of Israel.
A reading from the first Book of Samuel (1 Samuel 16:1b.6-7.1 0- 13a)
In those days: The Lord said to Samuel, “Fill your horn with oil, and go; I will send you to Jesse the Bethlehemite, for I have provided for myself a king among his sons.” When they came, he looked on Eliab and thought, “Surely the Lord’s anointed is before him.” But the Lord said to Samuel, “Do not look on his appearance or on the height of his stature, because I have rejected him; for the Lord sees not as man sees; man looks on the outward appearance, but the Lord looks on the heart.” And Jesse made seven of his sons pass before Samuel. And Samuel said to Jesse, “The Lord has not chosen these.” And Samuel said to Jesse, “Are all your sons here?” And he said, “There remains yet the youngest, but behold, he is keeping the sheep.” And Samuel said to Jesse, “Send and fetch him; for we will not sit down till he comes here.” And he sent, and brought him in. Now he was ruddy, and had beautiful eyes, and was handsome. And the Lord said, “Arise, anoint him; for this is he.” Then Samuel took the horn of oil, and anointed him in the midst of his brothers; and the Spirit of the LORD came mightily upon David from that day forward.
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Psalm 23 :1 -3a.3b-4.5.6 (R. 1)
R/. The Lord is my shepherd; there is nothing I shall want.
The Lord is my shepherd;
there is nothing I shall want.
Fresh and green are the pastures
where he gives me repose.
Near restful waters he leads me;
he revives my soul. R/.
He guides me along the right path,
for the sake of his name.
Though I should walk in the valley
of the shadow of death,
no evil would I fear,
for you are with me.
Your crook and your staff
will give me comfort. R/.
You have prepared a table before me
in the sight of my foes.
My head you have anointed with oil;
my cup is overflowing. R/.
Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me
all the days of my life.
In the Lord’s own house shall I dwell
for length of days unending. R/.
-SECOND READING-
“Arise from the dead, and Christ shall give you light.”
A reading from the Letter of Saint Paul to the Ephesians (Ephesians 5.8-14)
Brethren: Once you were darkness, but now you are light in the Lord; walk as children of light (for the fruit of light is found in all that is good and right and true), and try to learn what is pleasing to the Lord. Take no part in the unfruitful works of darkness, but instead expose them. For it is a shame even to speak of the things that they do in secret; but when anything is exposed by the light it becomes visible, for anything that becomes visible is light. Therefore it is said, “Awake, O sleeper, and arise from the dead, and Christ shall give you light.”
The word of the Lord.
VERSE BEFORE THE GOSPEL John 8: 12
Glory and praise to you, O Christ.
I am the light of the world, says the Lord; he who follows me will have the light of life.
Glory and praise to you, O Christ.
-GOSPEL-
“He went and washed and came back seeing.”
A reading from the holy Gospel according to John (John 9:1-41)
At that time: As Jesus passed by, he saw a man blind from his birth. *And his disciples asked him, “Rabbi, who sinned, this man or his parents, that he was born blind?” Jesus answered, “It was not that this man sinned, or his parents, but that the works of God might be made manifest in hint. We must work the works of him who sent me, while it is day; night comes, when no one can work. As long as I am in the world, I am the light of the world.” As he said this, * he spat on the ground and made clay of the spittle and anointed the man’s eyes with the clay, saying to him, “Go, wash in the pool of Siloam” (which means Sent). So he went and washed and came back seeing. The neighbours and those who had seen him before as a beggar, said, “Is not this the man who used to sit and beg?” Some said, “It is he”; others said, “No, but he is like him.” He said, “I am the man.” *
They said to him, “Then how were your eyes opened?” He answered, “The man called Jesus made clay and anointed my eyes and said to me, ‘Go to Siloam and wash’; so I went and washed and received my sight.” They said to him, “Where is he?” He said, “I do not know.”
They brought to the Pharisees the man who had formerly been blind. Now it was a sabbath day when Jesus made the clay and opened his eyes. The Pharisees again asked him how he had received his sight. And he said to them, “He put clay on my eyes, and I washed, and I see.” Some of the Pharisees said, “This man is not from God, for he does not keep the sabbath.” But others said, “How can a man who is a sinner do such signs?” There was a division among them. So they again said to the blind man, “What do you say about him, since he has opened your eyes?” He said, “He is a prophet.” *
The Jews did not believe that he had been blind and had received his sight, until they called the parents of the man who had received his sight, and asked them, “Is this your son, who you say was born blind? How then does he now see?” His parents answered, “We know that this is our son, and that he was born blind; but how he now sees we do not know, nor do we know who opened his eyes. Ask him; he is of age, he will speak for himself.” His parents said this because they feared the Jews, for the Jews had already agreed that if any one should confess him to be Christ, he was to be put out of the synagogue. Therefore his parents said, “He is of age, ask him.” So for the second time they called the man who had been blind, and said to him, “Give God the praise; we know that this man is a sinner.” He answered, “Whether he is a sinner, I do not know; one thing I know, that though I was blind, now I see.” They said to him, “What did he do to you? How did he open your eyes?” He answered them, “I have told you already, and you would not listen. Why do you want to hear it again? Do you too want to become his disciples?” And they reviled him, saying, “You are his disciple, but we are disciples of Moses. We know that God has spoken to Moses, but as for this man, we do not know where he comes from.” The man answered, “Why, this is a marvel! You do not know where he comes from, and yet he opened my eyes. We know that God does not listen to sinners, but if any one is a worshipper of God and does his will, God listens to him. Never since the world began has it been heard that any one opened the eyes of a man born blind. If this man were not from God, he could do nothing.”
They answered him, * “You were born in utter sin, and would you teach us?” And they cast him out. Jesus heard that they had cast him out, and having found him he said, “Do you believe in the Son of man?” He answered, “And who is he, sir, that I may believe in him?” Jesus said to him, “You have seen him, and it is he who speaks to you.” He said, “Lord, I believe”; and he worshipped him. * Jesus said, “For judgement I came into this world, that those who do not see may see, and that those who see may become blind.” Some of the Pharisees near him heard this, and they said to him, “Are we also blind?” Jesus said to them, “If you were blind, you would have no guilt; but now that you say, ‘We see,’ your guilt remains.”
* The Gospel of the Lord. *
Shorter form: John 9:1.6-9.13-17.34-38. Read between *
PRAYER OF THE FAITHFUL
Celebrant:
Our Lord Jesus Christ miraculously opened the eyes of the man born blind. Let us ask him to open our eyes of faith that we may be healed of our spiritual blindness and be filled with lasting joy.
FOR THE CHURCH: that she may be a home for all people in need, opening her doors to the visually impaired and other persons with disabilities. Let us pray to the Lord.
FOR THOSE IN CIVIL AUTHORITY: that they may better recognize the dignity of persons with disabilities and work towards promoting a society that adequately care for them. Let us pray to the Lord.
FOR HEALTHCARE WORKERS: that as they provide care for the sick and the elderly, God may keep them safe from every harm and grant them his blessings. Let us pray to the Lord.
FOR OUR COMMUNITY: that Christ may heal us of our spiritual blindness, so that we may become more aware of God’s presence and always experience the joy of being his children. Let us pray to the Lord.
For other intentions: (the sick, church projects or other activities).
FOR THE DEAD: especially those of our parish community and family members: that they may find eternal rest with the Lord. Let us pray to the Lord.
We pray in silence for our private intentions.
Celebrant:
God our Father, your Son continues to enlighten our souls with his saving word and sacraments. Grant us the grace to be able to overcome evil and sin, that we may experience the joy of being united with you. Through Christ our Lord.
R/. Amen.
PERSONAL DEVOTIONAL FOR LENT
When a dog is tied to a pole, it cannot be free anymore to walk around or run and in most cases it will stop it from expressing itself. When we let ourselves be tied up by things, people and places that infringes on our ability to grow up spiritually, then we are not free and we truly need someone to untie us or help us to untie ourselves. There is no other person who can help us in this regard than Jesus Christ Himself who came to set us free.
Today, tell yourself the truth whether you are free or tied up somewhere. If the latter is the case, simply call upon Jesus with Faith and act upon His word and your freedom will come.
Let us Pray:
Lord in your goodness, forgive us our sins as we forgive those who sin against us.
Monday March 20, 2023
St. Joseph, Husband of B.V.M (Solemnity)
Weekday of Lent (4)
Vestment: White
Today’s Rosary: Joyful Mystery
Preface of St. Joseph
Foster father of Jesus, husband of the Blessed Virgin Mary, and Patron of the universal Church, St Joseph enjoys widespread devotion all over the world, He was chosen to play an important role in the history of salvation and even though the Gospels do not record any word spoken by him, he is revered as a just man, the one who places God at the centre of his life and responds to every situation in obedience to God’s will.
Theme of the Feast: Joseph, a Man Enchanted by the Dreams of God. The first reading proclaims an everlasting kingdom and how God has decided to grant it to a “son of David.” The Gospel proclaims the accomplishment of the promise made to David: one of his descendants has fulfilled the words of Nathan beyond all expectations. The second reading speaks of Abraham, the man who placed his trust in God. Like Abraham, Joseph too believed that the dreams of God would be fulfilled. Abraham and Joseph prove that whoever puts their trust in God will never be disappointed.
-FIRST READING-
“The Lord God will give to him the throne of his father, David” (Lk 1:32).
A reading from the second Book of Samuel (2 Samuel 7:4-5a.12—14a. 16)
In those days: The word of the Lord came to Nathan, “Go and tell my servant David, ‘Thus says the Lord: When your days are fulfilled and you lie down with your fathers, I will raise up your offspring after you, who shall come forth from your body, and I will establish his kingdom. He shall build a house for my name, and I will establish the throne of his kingdom for ever. I will be his father, and he shall be my son. And your house and your kingdom shall be made sure for ever before me; your throne shall be established for ever. ”’
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Ps 89:2-3.4-5.27 and 29 (R. 37a)
R/. His descendants shall continue forever.
I will sing forever of your mercies, O Lord;
through all ages my mouth will proclaim your fidelity.
I have declared your mercy is established forever;
your fidelity stands firm as the heavens. R.
“With my chosen one I have made a covenant;
I have sworn to David my servant:
I will establish your descendants forever,
and set up your throne through all ages.” R.
“He will call out to me, ‘You are my father,
my God, the rock of my salvation.’
I will keep my faithful love for him always;
with him my covenant shall last.” R.
-SECOND READING-
“In hope he believed against hope.”
A reading from the Letter of Saint Paul to the Romans (Romans 4: 13.16-18.22)
Brethren: The promise to Abraham and his descendants, that they should inherit the world, did not come through the law but through the righteousness of faith. That is why all depends on faith, in order that the promise may rest on grace and be guaranteed to all his descendants — not only to the adherents of the law but also to those who share the faith of Abraham, for he is the father of us all, as it is written, “I have made you the father of many nations” — in the presence of the God in whom he believed, who gives life to the dead and calls into existence the things that do not exist. In hope he believed against hope, that he should become the father of many nations; as he had been told, “So shall your descendants be.” That is why his faith was “reckoned to him as righteousness.”
The word of the Lord.
Gospel Acclamation Psalm 84:4
Glory and praise to you, O Christ. Blessed are those who dwell in your house, O Lord, ever singing your praise! Glory and praise to you, O Christ.
-GOSPEL-
“Joseph did as the angel of the Lord commanded him.”
A reading from the holy Gospel according to Matthew (Matthew1:16.18—21.24a)
Jacob was the father of Joseph the husband of Mary, of whom Jesus was born, who is called Christ. Now the birth of Jesus Christ took place in this way. When his mother Mary had been betrothed to Joseph, before they came together she was found to be with child of the Holy Spirit; and her husband Joseph, being a just man and unwilling to put her to shame, resolved to send her away quietly. But as he considered this, behold, an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream, saying, “Joseph, son of David, do not fear to take Mary your wife, for that which is conceived in her is of the Holy Spirit; she will bear a son, and you shall call his name Jesus, for he will save his people from their sins.” When Joseph woke from sleep, he did as the angel of the Lord commanded him.
The Gospel of the Lord.
Or the following:
-GOSPEL-
“Behold your father and I have been looking for you anxiously. ”
A reading from the holy Gospel according to Luke (Luke 2:41-51a)
The parents of Jesus went to Jerusalem every year at the feast of the Passover. And when he was twelve years old, they went up according to custom; and when the feast was ended, as they were returning, the boy Jesus stayed behind in Jerusalem. His parents did not know it, but supposing him to be in the company they went a day’s journey, and they sought him among their kinsfolk and acquaintances; and when they did not find him, they returned to Jerusalem, seeking him. After three days they found him in the temple, sitting among the teachers, listening to them and asking them questions; and all who heard him were amazed at his understanding and his answers. And when they saw him they were astonished; and his mother said to him, “Son, why have you treated us so? Behold, your father and I have been looking for you anxiously.” And he said to them, “How is it that you sought me? Did you not know that I must be in my Father’s house?” And they did not understand the saying which he spoke to them. And he went down with them and came to Nazareth, and was obedient to them.
The Gospel of the Lord.
Prayer of the Faithful
Celebrant:
Gathered together as God’s family, with saint Joseph who lived in humility and trust in the will of God, let us make our petitions to the father who hears and answers us.
For the ministers of the church: that they may ever abide in God’s divine plan and remain zealous in pastorally caring for all men, women and children of the world. Let us pray to the Lord.
For the government: that our government may uphold the value of the family and promote the different roles husbands, wives and children are called to play in human society in accordance with God’s plan. Let us pray to the Lord.
For missionaries all over the world: that they may cherish more life of service, and may, through the intercession of Saint Joseph, foster desire for the kingdom of God. Let us pray to the Lord.
For married couples: that God may grant them the grace to be faithful to their marital covenant and may support them with his unfailing presence, especially in their moments of difficulties. Let us pray to the Lord.
For other intentions: (the sick, church projects or other activities).
For the dead, especially those of our parish community and family members: that they may be led to the complete truth in the kingdom of God. Let us pray to the Lord.
We pray in silence for our private intentions.
Celebrant:
Father, grant to your people the grace you gave to saint Joseph to do your will, even when he did not understand it. Help us to trust in your word, so that through us, the world may experience your kingdom here on earth. Through Christ our Lord.
R/. Amen.
TODAY’S REFLECTION
Whenever we take a closer look at the person of Joseph, the husband of Mary, we soon realize that we tend to take St. Joseph for granted not because we like to ignore him but because we naturally assume Jesus being God deserves all the attention.
There are lot of lessons to learn from this great man, Joseph, some of which we would now try to itemize:
The Bible refers to Joseph as a just man. This means he was a man of integrity. He was well respected in the community. He had a good name. He was a man of justice. He was not a wayward person and he believed in doing what is right at all times. Can it be said about me that I am a just person? Do I practice selective integrity?
St. Joseph was unwilling to put Mary to shame despite learning of her pregnancy before they came to be together as husband and wife. When I happen to suspect others of doing wrong, what is my immediate reaction? Do I keep things to myself or begin to gossip and announce to others?
We are told that when Joseph woke from sleep, he did as the Angel of the Lord had commanded him. He agreed to play the role of a foster father to the Son of God. This meant that he agreed to live as a celibate for the rest of his life for the sake of Jesus Christ. His own form of celibacy would even be more demanding given that unlike other celibates, he would have to live in the same house with a woman not related to him. Can I make sacrifice for God? Am I only interested in what I can get from God rather than what I should give to God? Am I faithful to the demands of my calling in life? Do I keep my vows and promises to God?
It takes great faith to agree to do what Joseph did for Jesus and Mary. Do you notice that God only spoke to him through dreams? Unlike the case of Mary and Zechariah who had an Angel appear to them in broad day, Joseph had to depend on his dreams.
It takes great faith to believe that what we see in our dreams is not simply a figment of our imagination. It takes Faith to believe that a young woman would actually conceive without knowing a man. Do I put a limit in my mind to what God can do? Do I really believe that with God, all things are possible? Am I willing to act based on what God reveals to me daily through my study of the scriptures?
Blessings for the New Week
The spiritual life is a battle between light and darkness, good and evil. Those who are afraid to fight the battle will end up being the losers, but those who fight on the side of light and good will definitely be victorious.
As followers of Jesus we should not expect anything less. If He could be tempted by the devil, then we also could face temptation and if He overcame the devil, we also could overcome it too. This is a time to go into the desert and draw the spiritual energy and strength with which to continue to fight the spiritual battle. If we must keep the covenant we have with God, we must be ready to make a withdrawal from time to time to the desert where we will fight the battle on the side of good and overcome.
We have a pact with God and we must strive every day to keep to the covenant we have entered into by virtue of our baptism and when this is done in all sincerity we will definitely come out victorious in our spiritual battle with the forces of evil.
May our efforts today not be a waste, but through your grace may we be fruitful and may we have testimonies to share at the end of the day.
My dear friend, cheer up go out with confidence, put in your best, share love and kindness and may God help you to succeed. Amen.
Personal Devotional for Lent Day 25
When we stay close to Jesus we will receive revelations, knowledge and privilege that will make us know more about Him and we will be able to speak authoritatively in His name as His representative. The closer we are to Jesus the more we know Him and the more we will be able to speak about Him. Do not let anything stop you from striving to know Jesus more and when you know Him, you must be willing and ready to let others know about Him too.
Today, tell yourself the truth whether you are free or tied up somewhere. If the latter is the case, simply call upon Jesus with Faith and act upon His word and your freedom will come.
Let us pray:
Lord Jesus, may I have the faith of the official to always hold on to your word. Help me understand I can change my reality by changing my mind. Amen.
Tuesday March 21, 2023
Weekday of Lent (4)
Office: Psalter Week 4
Mass prop., Preface of Lent
Vestment: Violet
Today’s Rosary: Sorrowful Mystery
-FIRST READING-
I saw water coming forth from the temple, and all those were saved to whom the water came.
A reading from the Book of the Prophet Ezekiel (Ezekiel 47:1—9.12)
In those days: [The angel] brought me back to the door of the temple; and behold, water was issuing from below the threshold of the temple towards the east (for the temple faced east); and the water was flowing down from below the right side of the threshold of the temple, south of the altar towards the east. Then he brought me out by way of the north gate, and led me round on the outside to the outer gate, that faces towards the east; and the water was coming out on the right side. Going on eastward with a line in his hand, the man measured a thousand cubits, and then led me through the water; and it was ankle-deep. Again he measured a thousand, and led me through the water; and it was knee-deep. Again he measured a thousand, and led me through the water; and it was up to the loins. Again he measured a thousand, and it was a river that I could not pass through, for the water had risen; it was deep enough to swim in, a river that could not be passed through. And he said to me, “Son of man, have you seen this?” Then he led me back along the bank of the river. As I went back, I saw upon the bank of the river very many trees on the one side and on the other. And he said to me, “This water flows towards the eastern region and goes down into the Arabah; and when it enters the stagnant waters of the sea, the water will become fresh. And wherever the river goes every living creature which swarms will live, and there will be very many fish; for this water goes there, that the waters of the sea may become fresh; so everything will live where the river goes. “And on the banks, on both sides of the river, there will grow all kinds of trees for food. Their leaves will not wither nor their fruit fail, but they will bear fresh fruit every month, because the water for them flows from the sanctuary. Their fruit will be for food, and their leaves for healing.”
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Psalm 46:2-3.5-6.8-9 (R. 8)
R/. The Lord of hosts is with us; the God of Jacob is our stronghold.
God is for us a refuge and strength,
an ever-present help in time of distress:
so we shall not fear though the earth should rock,
though the mountains quake to the heart of the sea. R/.
The waters of a river give joy to God’s city,
the holy place, the dwelling of the Most High.
God is within, it cannot be shaken;
God will help it at the dawning of the day. R/.
R/. The Lord of hosts is with us; the God of Jacob is our stronghold.
The Lord of hosts is with us:
the God of Jacob is our stronghold.
Come and behold the works of the Lord,
the awesome deeds he has done on the earth. R/.
VERSE BEFORE THE GOSPEL Psalm 51:10a.12a
Glory and praise to you, O Christ.
Create in me a clean heart, O God; restore to me the joy of your salvation.
Glory and praise to you, O Christ.
-GOSPEL-
“At once the man was healed.”
A reading from the holy Gospel according to John 5: 1-16
There was a feast of the Jews, and Jesus went up to Jerusalem. Now there is in Jerusalem by the Sheep Gate a pool, in Hebrew called Bethzatha, which has five porticoes. In these lay a multitude of invalids, blind, lame, paralyzed. One man was there, who had been ill for thirty-eight years. When Jesus saw him and knew that he had been lying there a long time, he said to him, “Do you want to be healed?” The sick man answered him, “Sir, I have no man to put me into the pool when the water is troubled, and while I am going another steps down before me.” Jesus said to him, “Rise, take up your pallet, and walk.” And at once the man was healed, and he took up his pallet and walked. Now that day was the sabbath. So the Jews said to the man who was cured, “It is the sabbath, it is not lawful for you to carry your pallet.” But he answered them, “The man who healed me said to me, ‘Take up your pallet and walk.” ’They asked him, “Who is the man who said to you, ‘Take up your pallet, and walk’?” Now the man who had been healed did not know who it was, for Jesus had withdrawn, as there was a crowd in the place. Afterward, Jesus found him in the temple, and said to him, “See, you are well! Sin no more, that nothing worse befall you.” The man went away and told the Jews that it was Jesus who had healed him. And this was why the Jews persecuted Jesus, because he did this on the sabbath.
The Gospel of the Lord.
TODAY’S REFLECTION
Next to air water is the element that living organisms most need to survive and thrive. Human beings, animals and plants can only go for so long without water before they die. Communities, nations have been known to go to war in order to secure access to water. Today’s readings speak of the healing power of water. Today, as a result of human error, numerous communities across the globe are experiencing water shortage. Humans, animals and plants in those places are threatened with extinction. We may not be able to do much to solve the water problems of the world. But we can at least do all in our power to meet the water needs of those around us – “I was thirsty, and you gave me a drink.”
PERSONAL DEVOTIONAL FOR LENT DAY 26
Grace is gained whenever we perform a good act in the name of God and it is also lost when our actions become bitter and wicked. Everyone will not like you and your attitude and sometimes people could treat you badly, however, how you react and respond to them could either make you gain grace or lose it. Therefore, do not throw away opportunities to gain grace when next you experience insult and discomfort, try and tap into it and gain the grace you will need and use for greater good.
Today, try not to pay back evil with evil, but always see opportunity to gain grace from everything that happens to you whether good or bad. Let go of that desire to seek revenge after that insult, instead, dig dip into it and gain grace from Jesus.
Let us pray:
Lord Jesus, increase my hatred for sin, free me from self-pity and the desire to attract the pity of others. May I never be so distracted with complaints as to miss your presence. Amen.
Wednesday March 22, 2023
Weekday of Lent (4)
Office- Psalter Week 4
Mass prop., Preface of Lent
Vestment: Violet
Today’s Rosary: The Glorious Mystery
-FIRST READING-
“I have given you as a covenant to the people, to establish the land.”
A reading from the Book of Isaiah (Isaiah 49:8-15)
Thus says the Lord: “In a time of favour I have answered you, in a day of salvation I have helped you; I have kept you and given you as a covenant to the people, to establish the land, to apportion the desolate heritages; saying to the prisoners, ‘Come forth,’ to those who are in darkness, ‘Appear.’ They shall feed along the ways, on all bare heights shall be their pasture; they shall not hunger or thirst, neither scorching wind nor sun shall strike them, for he who has pity on them will lead them, and by springs of water will guide them. And I will make all my mountains a way, and my highways shall be raised up. Behold, these shall come from afar, and behold, these from the north and from the west, and these from the land of Syene.” Sing for joy, O heavens, and exult, O earth; break forth, O mountains, into singing! For the LORD has comforted his people, and will have compassion on his afflicted. But Zion said, “The Lord has forsaken me, my Lord has forgotten me.” “Can a woman forget her sucking child, that she should have no compassion on the son of her womb?” Even these may forget, yet I will not forget you.
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Psalm 145:8-9.13cd-14.17-18 (R. 8a)
R/. The Lord is kind and full of compassion.
The Lord is kind and full of compassion,
slow to anger, abounding in mercy.
How good is the Lord to all,
compassionate to all his creatures. R/.
The Lord is faithful in all his words,
and holy in all his deeds.
The Lord supports all who fall,
and raises up all who are bowed down. R/.
R/. The Lord is kind and full of compassion.
The Lord is just in all his ways,
and holy in all his deeds.
The Lord is close to all who call him,
who call on him in truth. R/.
VERSE BEFORE THE GOSPEL John 11:25a.26
Glory and praise to you, O Christ.
I am the resurrection and the life, says the Lord; he who believes in me shall never die.
Glory and praise to you, O Christ.
-GOSPEL-
“As the Father raises the dead and gives them life, so also the Son gives life to whom he will.”
* A reading from the holy Gospel according to John (John 5: 17-30)
At that time: Jesus answered the Jews, “My Father is working still, and I am working.” This was why the Jews sought all the more to kill him, because he not only broke the sabbath but also called God his Father, making himself equal with God. Jesus said to them, “Truly, truly, I say to you, the Son can do nothing of his own accord, but only what he sees the Father doing; for whatever he does, that the Son does likewise. For the Father loves the Son, and shows him all that he himself is doing; and greater works than these will he show him, that you may marvel. For as the Father raises the dead and gives them life, so also the Son gives life to whom he will. The Father judges no one, but has given all judgement to the Son, that all may honour the Son, even as they honour the Father. He who does not honour the Son does not honour the Father who sent him. Truly, truly, I say to you, he who hears my word and believes him who sent me, has eternal life; he does not come into judgement, but has passed from death to life. “Truly, truly, I say to you, the hour is coming, and now is, when the dead will hear the voice of the Son of God, and those who hear will live. For as the Father has life in himself, so he has granted the Son also to have life in himself, and has given him authority to execute judgement, because he is the Son of man. Do not marvel at this; for the hour is coming when all who are in the tombs will hear his voice and come forth, those who have done good, to the resurrection of life, and those who have done evil, to the resurrection of judgement. “I can do nothing on my own authority; as I hear, I judge; and my judgement is just, because I seek not my own will but the will of him who sent me.”
The Gospel of the Lord.
Today's Reflection
In seeking to kill Jesus, the Jews felt they were doing something right. In their eyes, Jesus was a law breaker, a man who had no respect for God’s day of rest, an ordinary man who insulted God by daring to say God is his Father and implying that he himself is God. Try to put yourself in the shoes of the Jews at the time of Jesus. Imagine a friend of yours within your age range who grew up with you in the same neighbourhood all of sudden shows up in the Cathedral one morning and starts claiming to be God. What would be your reaction?
In all honesty, you would do everything you can to convince yourself that he is just a man; that you must be out of your senses to assume that he is God.
And as if that is not enough, this person begins to preach that it is wrong for people to go to Church on Sunday and many start listening to him. Being a priest, I would consider this a personal attack on my source of sustenance. Without Sundays, I would simply be irrelevant. For attempting to even toil with my “day”, I would be just as mad as a trader whose shop in a busy market is about to be brought down. I would fight back!
So you see! If Jesus should come back again, he would surely be killed a second time; so long as there are normal human beings like me in this world who like to hold on strongly to opinions about who God is and how he is to be worshipped. The Jews were convinced that the death of Jesus was justice served; they were sure they were doing honour to God. They never asked themselves: “What if I am wrong?” But in the end, history proved them wrong.
Now, where does all these lead to? My dear friends, if history proved these zealous Jews wrong, how sure am I that the views I hold right now are true? What makes me convinced that even those opinions I am passionate about are correct? Before I “kill” again, I must learn from history; before I shout “crucify him” against someone who does not hold my opinion, I think it would be wise to first ask myself: “what if I am wrong?”
Don’t be too quick to destroy or bring people down simply because you don’t agree with them. They killed Jesus because they saw him as an obstruction against all the prophesies of old not knowing that even the very act of killing him was part of the fulfilment of the same prophesies. In their disbelief and ignorance, they helped to prove to the world that Jesus is really God. You see, no one can fight the truth!
Be humble. Stop arguing. You may not be right. You cannot be right always. Listen to others. There may be something to learn even from your greatest critiques.
PERSONAL DEVOTIONAL FOR LENT DAY 27
When we toil without God, we can put in much energy and get very little gain to show for our effort. However, when we work hard and also let God be involved in what we do, He gives our effort a divine touch that produces a miraculous outflow of fruitfulness in abundance. It is for our advantage that we let God be involved in the things we do, because without Him we can definitely make no way in this life.
Today, make sure that you do not take the journey alone. Allow the Lord to go with you and by His help you will definitely witness success; be it in work, business, study, career, relationships, e.t.c
Let us pray:
Lord Jesus, your coming as man was just too good to be true, may I not take your presence even now for granted. Amen.
Thursday March 23, 2023
SAINT TARIBIUS DE MONGROVEJO, Bp. (Opt. Commem)
Office: Psalter Week 4
Mass prop., Preface of Lent
Vestment: Violet
Today’s Rosary: Luminous Mystery
-FIRST READING-
“Repent of this evil against your people.”,
A reading from the Book of Exodus (Exodus 32:7- 14)
In those days: The Lord said to Moses, “Go down; for your people, whom you brought up out of the land of Egypt, have corrupted themselves; they have turned aside quickly out of the way which I commanded them; they have made for themselves a molten calf, and have worshipped it and sacrificed to it, and said, ‘These are your gods, O Israel, who brought you up out of the land of Egypt!”’ And the Lord said to Moses, “I have seen this people, and behold, it is a stiff-necked people; now therefore let me alone, that my wrath may bum hot against them and I may consume them; but of you I will make a great nation.” But Moses begged the Lord his God, and said, “O Lord, why does your wrath burn hot against your people, whom you have brought forth out of the land of Egypt with great power and with a mighty hand? Why should the Egyptians say, ‘With evil intent he brought them forth, to slay them in the mountains, and to consume them from the face of the earth’? Turn from your fierce wrath, and repent of this evil against your people. Remember Abraham, Isaac, and Israel, your servants, to whom you did swear by your own self, and did say to them, 'I will multiply your descendants as the stars of heaven, and all this land that I have promised I will give to your descendants, and they shall inherit it for ever.”’ And the Lord repented of the evil which he thought to do to his people.
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Psalm 106:19-20.21-22.23 (R. see 4a)
R/. O Lord, remember us with the favour you show to your people.
They fashioned a calf at Horeb,
and worshipped an image of metal,
they exchanged their glory
for the image of a bull that eats grass. R/.
They forgot the God who was their saviour,
who had done such great things in Egypt,
such wonders in the land of Ham,
such marvels at the Red Sea. R/.
R/. O Lord, remember us with the favour you show to your people.
For this he said he would destroy them,
but Moses, the man he had chosen,
stood in the breach before him,
to turn back his anger from destruction. R/.
VERSE BEFORE THE GOSPEL John 3:16
Glory and praise to you, O Christ. God so loved the world that he gave his only-begotten Son; that whoever believes in him should have eternal life. Glory and praise to you, O Christ.
-GOSPEL-
“It is Moses who accuses you, on whom you set your hope.”
A reading from the holy Gospel according to John (John5:31-47)
At that time: Jesus said to the Jews, “If I bear witness to myself, my testimony is not true; there is another who bears witness to me, and I know that the testimony which he bears to me is true. You sent to John, and he has borne witness to the truth. Not that the testimony which I receive is from man; but I say this that you may be saved. He was a burning and shining lamp, and you were willing to rejoice for a while in his light. But the testimony which I have is greater than that of John; for the works which the Father has granted me to accomplish, these very works which I am doing, bear me witness that the Father has sent me. And the Father who sent me has himself borne witness to me. His voice you have never heard, his form you have never seen; and you do not have his word abiding in you, for you do not believe him whom he has sent. You search the Scriptures, because you think that in them you have eternal life; and it is they that bear witness to me; yet you refuse to come to me that you may have life. I do not receive glory from men. But I know that you have not the love of God within you. I have come in my Father’s name, and you do not receive me; if another comes in his own name, him you will receive. How can you believe, who receive glory from one another and do not seek the glory that comes from the only God? Do not think that I shall accuse you to the Father; it is Moses who accuses you, on whom you set your hope. If you believed Moses, you would believe me, for he wrote of me. But if you do not believe his writings, how will you believe my words?”
The Gospel of the Lord.
Reflection
Moses is the most prominent figure in the race and religion of Israel. Indeed the Israelites of old and the Jewish people of today believe that God gave them their religion, Judaism, through Moses. That made Moses the highest authority next to God. Whatever he said or wrote had the seal of God on it. But the people did not always follow Moses, for example when they made a molten calf to worship it. They also did not obey Moses when they refused to accept his testimony about Jesus. That did not trouble Jesus because he had a much higher testimony, that of his Father, borne out by the miracles that he performed. If we are doing God’s work, and people fail or refuse to show us recognition, it should nor disturb us. It is enough that we have recognition from God whose work we are doing.
Personal Devotional for Lent Day 28
When you see someone that is weak in areas that you are strong, you do not need to make a show of it and reveal the weakness of that brother or sister. True love demands that you help the individual feel confident in himself or herself in such a way that he or she will be willing and ready to strive to become better. Be the help that will make that individual to come out of that weakness and become strong like you.
Today, instead of gossiping about that brother or sister who is down as a result of weakness, try and see how you can help that person by words and action to become great again. Your action speaks louder than voice.
Let us pray:
Lord Jesus, may I seek your approval only. Amen.
Friday March 24, 2023
Weekday of Lent (4)
Office- Psalter Week 4
Mass prop., Preface of Lent
Vestment: Violet
Today’s Rosary: Sorrowful Mystery
Vespers I of the Annunciation of the Lord
-FIRST READING-
“Let us condemn him to a shameful death.”
A reading from the Book of Wisdom (Wisdom 2:1a.12-22)
Ungodly men reasoned unsoundly, saying to themselves, “Let us lie in wait for the righteous man, because he is inconvenient to us and opposes our actions; he reproaches us for sins against the law, and accuses us of sins against our training. He professes to have knowledge of God, and calls himself a child of the Lord. He became to us a reproof of our thoughts; the very sight of him is a burden to us, because his manner of life is unlike that of others, and his ways are strange. We are considered by him as something base, and he avoids our ways as unclean; he calls the last end of the righteous happy, and boasts that God is his father. Let us see if his words are true, and let us test what will happen at the end of his life; for if the righteous man is God’s son, he will help him, and will deliver him from the hand of his adversaries. Let us test him with insult and torture, that we may find out how gentle he is, and make trial of his forbearance. Let us condemn him to a shameful death, for, according to what he says, he will be protected.” Thus they reasoned, but they were led astray, for their wickedness blinded them, and they did not know the secret purposes of God, nor hope for the wages of holiness, nor discern the prize for blameless souls.
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Psalm 34: 17-18.19-20.21 and 23 (R. 19a)
R/. The Lord is close to the broken-hearted.
The Lord turns his face against the wicked
to destroy their remembrance from the earth.
When the just cry out, the Lord hears,
and rescues them in all their distress. R/.
The Lord is close to the broken-hearted;
those whose spirit is crushed he will save.
Many are the trials of the just man,
but from them all the Lord will rescue him. R.
R/. The Lord is close to the broken-hearted.
He will keep guard over all his bones;
not one of his bones shall be broken.
The Lord ransoms the souls of his servants.
All who trust in him shall not be condemned. R/.
VERSE BEFORE THE GOSPEL Matthew 4:4b
Glory and praise to you, O Christ.
Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceeds from the mouth of God.
Glory and praise to you, O Christ.
-GOSPEL-
“They sought to arrest him,‘ but his hour had not yet come. ”
A reading from the holy Gospel according to John (John 7: 1-2.10.25-30)
At that time: Jesus went about in Galilee; he would not go about in Judea, because the Jews sought to kill him. Now the Jews’ feast of Tabernacles was at hand. But after his brethren had gone up to the feast, then he also went up, not publicly but in private. Some of the people of Jerusalem therefore said, “Is not this the man whom they seek to kill? And here he is, speaking openly, and they say nothing to him! Can it be that the authorities really know that this is the Christ? Yet we know where this man comes from; and when the Christ appears, no one will know where he comes from.” So Jesus proclaimed, as he taught in the temple, “You know me, and you know where I come from; But I have not come of my own accord; he who sent me is true, and him you do not know. I know him, for I come from him, and he sent me.” So they sought to arrest him; but no one laid hands on him, because his hour had not yet come.
The Gospel of the Lord.
TODAY’S REFLECTION
The only way to make sense of the Christian life is to look at it from the perspective of a cross. Being a Christian is not a ticket to a life of luxury, peace and comfort, it is rather an invitation to a road less travelled; it is standing for what is right and having to face the ridicule, insults, oppression, pain and humiliation of many who practically belong to this world.
Jesus knew exactly what he was saying when he said those who will follow him must be prepared to carry the cross. He knew that anyone who tries to serve him diligently in this world will surely not find it easy at all. He or she must have to swim against the tide because wickedness and evil is more popular than good.
The Christian life is a battle yet we are not wrestling against people (flesh and blood) but against principalities and powers who work through people to make life difficult and tough for anyone who strives to serve God. Ephesians 6:12. These principalities and powers are not visible but their manifestations are very obvious. We sometimes assume people are enemies but the truth is that we have only one enemy; the thief who comes to steal, to kill and to destroy. John 10:10.
If we do not realize that we are carrying a cross, there is a tendency for us to drop it without even knowing. We could actually forget what the Christian life is about and begin to serve other gods unknowingly by making a priority of comfort, wealth and fame. This is what the gospel of prosperity does. It is a distortion of what the Christian life is about. If we forget that the Christian life is a cross, we would not understand why we can’t have bread in place of stones, why we can’t have the glories of this world or why we just can’t be popular or have people respect us. These are the temptations of Jesus and the same temptations we constantly face and the only way we can overcome any temptation is to choose the cross.
Dear friends, do not give up on righteousness. Do not drop the cross. Do not be discouraged when the going becomes tough and you don’t feel like moving on anymore. Do not be taken aback by insults. Jesus’ nickname was “Beelzebub.” Do not get tired of being good even when your goodness is used against you. Do not stop forgiving people, you have only one enemy; the devil. Do not seek after life only on earth, be prepared even to let go of your very life in exchange of a better life in heaven.
PERSONAL DEVOTIONAL FOR LENT DAY 29
A little help given to a needy person can do a lot in the life of that individual. However, if you do not make up your mind to help when you have little and continue to worry about how insufficient your little will be for you, you may never help the needy and that will definitely cost you blessings and opportunity of getting help from others in your time of need. Therefore, if you desire to be helped when you are in need, do not hold back anymore in making use of that little you have to help the needy who come to you.
Today, make sure you give something no matter how small it is to that needy brother or sister around you. First your joy will increase and secondly, you are destined for a lifting up from the Lord, because your little will turn to many someday.
Let us pray:
Lord Jesus, help me to understand that there are trials that must come, and may I never give up when I face persecution for your sake. Amen.
Saturday March 25, 2023
THE ANNUNCIATION OF THE LORD (SOLEMNITY)
Office: Proper, Te Deum
Mass prop. Gloria, Creed.
Preface proper of Solemnity
Vestment: White
Today’s Rosary: The Joyful Mystery
WORLD DAY FOR THE UNBORN CHILD
Vespers 1 of the 5th Sunday of Lent
THEME OF THE FEAST: The Virgin Will Give Birth to a Son
The God of Israel is always ready to work wonders, on condition that we place all our trust in him. The first reading presents us with the young Ahaz, king of Israel, who must make an embarrassing choice: to act according to human logic in politics and diplomacy or to trust the promises of God. The gospel presents us with one of his wonderful works: what he did for Mary, the virgin, who, unlike Ahaz, placed her full trust in him, and put her “nothingness” at his disposal. She became his masterpiece. All are called to experience the powerful love of God. The second reading tells us how: not through the offering of holocausts and sacrifices, but by “doing the will of the Lord” as Jesus and Mary did.
-FIRST READING-
“Behold, a virgin shall conceive.”
A reading from the Book of Isaiah 7:10-14; 8:10
In those days: The Lord spoke to Ahaz, “Ask a sign of the Lord your God; let it be deep as Sheol or high as heaven.” But Ahaz said, “I will not ask, and I will not put the Lord to the test.” And he said, “Hear then, O house of David! Is it too little for you to weary men, that you weary my God also? Therefore the Lord himself will give you a sign. Behold, a virgin shall conceive and bear a son, and shall call his name Immanuel.” Take counsel together, but it will come to nought; speak a word, but it will not stand, for God is with us.
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Ps 40:7-8a.8b-9.10. 11 (R. cf. 8a.9a)
R/. See, I have come, Lord, to do your will.
You delight not in sacrifice and offerings,
but in an open ear.
You do not ask for holocaust and victim.
Then I said, “See, I have come.” R/.
In the scroll of the book it stands written of me:
“I delight to do your will, O my God;
your instruction lies deep within me.” R/.
R/. See, I have come, Lord, to do your will.
Your justice I have proclaimed
in the great assembly.
My lips I have not sealed;
you know it, O Lord. R/.
Your saving help I have not hidden in my heart;
of your faithfulness and salvation I have spoken.
I made no secret of your merciful love
and your faithfulness to the great assembly. R/.
-SECOND READING-
“I have come to do your will, O God, as it is written of me in the roll of the book.”
A reading from the Letter to the Hebrews (Hebrews 10:4- 10)
Brethren: It is impossible that the blood of bulls and goats should take away sins. Consequently, when Christ came into the world, he said, “Sacrifices and offerings you have not desired, but a body you have prepared for me; in burnt offerings and sin offerings you have taken no pleasure. Then I said, ‘Behold, I have come to do your will, O God,’ as it is written of me in the roll of the book.” When he said above “You have neither desired nor taken pleasure in sacrifices and offerings and burnt offerings and sin offerings” (these are offered according to the law), then he added, “Behold, I have come to do your will.” He abolishes the first in order to establish the second. And by that will we have been sanctified through the offering of the body of Jesus Christ once for all.
The word of the Lord.
VERSE BEFORE GOSPEL John 1 :14ab
Glory and praise to you, O Christ.
The word became flesh and dwelt among us; and we have beheld his glory.
Glory and praise to you, O Christ.
-GOSPEL-
“You will conceive in your womb and bear a son.
A reading from the holy Gospel according to Luke1:26-38
At that time: The angel Gabriel was sent from God to a city of Galilee named Nazareth, to a virgin betrothed to a man whose name was Joseph, of the house of David; and the virgin’s name was Mary. And he came to her and said, “Hail, full of grace, the Lord is with you!” But she was greatly troubled at the saying, and considered in her mind what sort of greeting this might be. And the angel said to her, “Do not be afraid, Mary, for you have found favour with God. And behold, you will conceive in your womb and bear a son, and you shall call his name Jesus. He will be great, and will be called the Son of the Most High; and the Lord God will give to him the throne of his father David, and he will reign over the house of Jacob for ever; and of his kingdom there will be no end.” And Mary said to the angel, “How will this be, since I know not man?” And the angel said to her, “The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you; therefore the child to be born will be called holy, the Son of God. And behold, your kinswoman Elizabeth in her old age has also conceived a son; and this is the sixth month with her who was called barren. For with God nothing will be impossible.” And Mary said, “Behold, I am the handmaid of the Lord; let it be to me according to your word.” And the angel departed from her.
The Gospel of the Lord.
PRAYER OF THE FAITHFUL
Celebrant:
The Blessed Virgin Mary submitted herself to the will of God without any form of reservation. As we present our petitions to God, let us pray for the grace to always say “yes” to him.
For the ministers of the church: that, as Mary accepted to be a channel through which humanity encountered Christ, they may remain committed to their mission to lead people to a deep encounter with the one true God. Let us pray to the Lord.
For those in public office: that, inspired by the special role played by Mary in the plan of salvation, they may recognize the contributions of women to the development of society. Let us pray to the Lord.
For communications professionals: that, guided by saint Gabriel, their patron saint, they may always respect truth and use their skills to further diffuse God’s message of salvation. Let us pray to the Lord.
For children who are still in the womb: that the Lord may preserve them in good health and lead all persons to recognize the sacredness of human life from conception to its natural end. Let us pray to the Lord.
For other intentions: (the sick, church projects or other activities).
For the dead, especially those of our parish community and family members: that they may be led to the complete truth in the kingdom of God. Let us pray to the Lord.
We pray in silence for our private intentions.
Celebrant:
God our heavenly Father, you chose the Blessed Virgin Mary to be the mother of your Son. Following her example, may we always submit to your will, so that our lives may ever be an oblation that is pleasing to you. Through Christ our Lord.
R/. Amen.
Today's Reflection
Jesus’ words brought division among the people. There were those who believed he is the Messiah, and there were others who did not. Those who did not believe he is the Christ had their minds fixated wrongly on the Scriptures. The scriptures ought to bring understanding and enlightenment to them, but they seemed to have misunderstood it totally. The Word of God was right before them, yet they could not see him. The story has not really changed today as God’s Word is being misinterpreted daily and used to justify every action that is carried out whether good or bad. We should ask for the grace of understanding the Word of God so as not to cause havoc to ourselves and to others.
Personal Devotional for Lent Day 30
Prayer is what we are encouraged to do in season and out of season and it really works if we apply faith to it. However, to make our prayer life consistent without any break in transmission is a challenge we face on a daily basis. Sometimes you pray in the morning and the night prayer is forgone or vice versa. It will be pleasing to the Lord that we connect to Him everyday in prayer and through it we let Him know our heart desires and He in turn reveals Himself to us.
Do you think you have prayed well for today? If not, you still have a beautiful opportunity to end your day well by saying your night prayer.
Today is about praying; and God is ready to hear and answer us if we are willing and ready to pray well.
Pray as never before and teach others to do the same, because it is the master key that can make the impossible become possible. No matter how tired you may be at the moment make sure you say a little prayer before you go to bed. You can also say that little prayer now.
Sunday March 26, 2023
Fifth Sunday of Lent A
Office: Psalter Week 1
Mass prop. Creed Preface of Passion 1
Vestment: Violet
Today’s Rosary: The Glorious Mysteries
National Emergency Resources Mobilization and Fund Raising
Vespers II of the 5th Sunday of Lent
The practice of covering crosses and images throughout the church from this Sunday may be observed, if the Conference of Bishops so decides. Crosses remain covered until the end of the celebration of the Lord’s Passion on Good Friday, but images remain covered until the beginning of the Easter Vigil.
FOR RCIA the reading from year B may be used:
The “Third Scrutiny” of the Elect may take place on this Sunday (cf RCIA, 171-177). The proper ritual prayer and intercessions are used as found in the “Roman Missal” The Reading are given as below.
On the weekend of the fifth week of Lent, at the Office Reading, Morning Prayers and Evening Prayers, the Hymns for Holy Week may be sung.
THEME OF THE SUNDAY: Jesus: The Lord of Life.
The three readings today are centred on the life that God gives to all people. The first reading introduces us to the theme through the prophecy of Ezekiel that gave Israel hope of resurrection. The Gospel presents the new message brought by Jesus. It is no longer a matter of resurrection on the last day, but the gift of new life that prevents a person from dying. In the second reading Paul speaks of the Spirit, the agent of Christ’s resurrection and of ours too.
ENTRANCE ANTIPHON cf. Ps 43:1-2
Give me justice, O God, and plead my cause against a nation that is faithless. From the deceitful and cunning rescue me, for you, O God, are my strength.
THE GLORIA IN EXCELS IS (GLORY TO GOD IN THE HIGHEST) IS NOT SAID.
COLLECT
By your help, we beseech you, Lord our God, may we walk eagerly in that same charity with which, out of love for the world, your Son handed himself over to death. Through our Lord. . .
-FIRST READING-
“I will put my spirit within you, and you shall live.”
A reading from the Book of the Prophet Ezekiel (Ezekiel 37: 12-14)
Thus says the Lord GOD: Behold, I will open your graves, and raise you from your graves, O my people; and I will bring you home into the land of Israel. And you shall know that I am the Lord, when I open your graves, and raise you from your graves, O my people. And I will put my Spirit within you, and you shall live, and I will place you in your own land; then you shall know that I, the Lord, have spoken, and I have done it, says the Lord.
The word of the Lord
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Psalm 130:1-2.3-4.5-7a.7b-8 (R. 7b)
R/. With the Lord there is mercy, in him is plentiful redemption.
Out of the depths I cry to you, O Lord;
Lord, hear my voice!
O let your ears be attentive
to the sound of my pleading. R/.
If you, O Lord, should mark iniquities,
Lord, who could stand?
But with you is found forgiveness,
that you may be revered. R/.
R/. With the Lord there is mercy, in him is plentiful redemption.
I long for you, O Lord,
my soul longs for his word.
My soul hopes in the Lord
more than watchmen for daybreak.
More than watchmen for daybreak,
let Israel hope for the Lord. R/.
For with the Lord there is mercy,
in him is plentiful redemption.
It is he who will redeem Israel
from all its iniquities. R/.
-SECOND READING-
“The Spirit of him who raised Jesus from the dead dwells in you.”
A reading from the Letter of Saint Paul to the Romans (Romans 8:8-11)
Brethren: Those who are in the flesh cannot please God. But you are not in the flesh, you are in the Spirit, if the Spirit of God really dwells in you. Any one who does not have the Spirit of Christ does not belong to him. But if Christ is in you, although your bodies are dead because of sin, your spirits are alive because of righteousness. If the Spirit of him who raised Jesus from the dead dwells in you, he who raised Christ Jesus from the dead will give life to your mortal bodies also through his Spirit who dwells in you.
The word of the Lord.
VERSE BEFORE THE GOSPEL Joel 2:12-13
Glory and praise to you, O Christ.
Even now, says the Lord, return to me with all your heart, for I am gracious and merciful.
Glory and praise to you, O Christ.
-GOSPEL-
“I am the resurrection and the life.”
A reading from the holy Gospel according to John 11:1-45
At that time: A certain man was ill, Lazarus of Bethany, the village of Mary and her sister Martha. It was Mary who anointed the Lord with ointment and wiped his feet with her hair, whose brother Lazarus was ill. So * the sisters sent to him, saying, “Lord, he whom you love is ill.” But when Jesus heard it he said, “This illness is not unto death; it is for the glory of God, so that the Son of God may be glorified by means of it.” Now Jesus loved Martha and her sister and Lazarus. So when he heard that he was ill, he stayed two days longer in the place where he was. Then after this he said to the disciples, “Let us go into Judea again.” *
The disciples said to him, “Rabbi, the Jews were but now seeking to stone you, and are you going there again?” Jesus answered, “Are there not twelve hours in the day? If any one walks in the day, he does not stumble, because he sees the light of this world. But if any one walks in the night, he stumbles, because the light is not in him.” Thus he spoke, and then he said to them, “Our friend Lazarus has fallen asleep, but I go to awake him out of sleep.” The disciples said to him, “Lord, if he has fallen asleep, he will recover.” Now Jesus had spoken of his death, but they thought that he meant taking rest in sleep. Then Jesus told them plainly, “Lazarus is dead; and for your sake I am glad that I was not there, so that you may believe. But let us go to him.” Thomas, called the Twin, said to his fellow disciples, “Let us also go, that we may die with him.”
* Now when Jesus came, he found that Lazarus had already been in the tomb four days.* Bethany was near Jerusalem, about two miles off, and many of the Jews had come to Martha and Mary to console them concerning their brother. * When Martha heard that Jesus was coming, she went and met him, while Mary sat in the house. Martha said to Jesus, “Lord, if you had been here, my brother would not have died. And even now I know that whatever you ask from God, God will give you.” Jesus said to her, “Your brother will rise again.” Martha said to him, “I know that he will rise again in the resurrection at the last day.” Jesus said to her, “I am the resurrection and the life; he who believes in me, though he die, yet shall he live, and whoever lives and believes in me shall never die. Do you believe this?” She said to him, “Yes, Lord; I believe that you are the Christ, the Son of God, he who is coming into the world.” * When she had said this, she went and called her sister Mary, saying quietly, “The Teacher is here and is calling for you.” And when she heard it, she rose quickly and went to him. Now Jesus had not yet come to the village, but was still in the place where Martha had met him. When the Jews who were with her in the house, consoling her, saw Mary rise quickly and go out, they followed her, supposing that she was going to the tomb to weep there. Then Mary, when she came where Jesus was and saw him, fell at his feet, saying to him, “Lord, if you had been here, my brother would not have died.”
When Jesus saw her weeping, and the Jews who came with her also weeping, * he was deeply moved in spirit and troubled; and he said, “Where have you laid him?” They said to him, “Lord, come and see.” Jesus wept. So the Jews said, “See how he loved him!” But some of them said, “Could not he who opened the eyes of the blind man have kept this man from dying?” Then Jesus, deeply moved again, came to the tomb; it was a cave, and a stone lay upon it. Jesus said, “Take away the stone.” Martha, the sister of the dead man, said to him, “Lord, by this time there will be an odour, for he has been dead four days.” Jesus said to her, “Did I not tell you that if you would believe you would see the glory of God?” So they took away the stone. And Jesus lifted up his eyes and said, “Father, I thank you that you have heard me. I knew that you always hear me, but I have said this on account of the people standing by, that they may believe that you have sent me.” When he had said this, he cried with a loud voice, “Lazarus, come out.” The dead man came out, his hands and feet bound with bandages, and his face wrapped with a cloth. Jesus said to them, “Unbind him, and let him go.” Many of the Jews therefore, who had come with Mary and had seen what he did, believed in him.
The Gospel of the Lord. *
Shorter form: John 11:3-7.17.20-27.33b-45. Read between *
PRAYER OF THE FAITHFUL
Celebrant:
Our Lord Jesus Christ is the Resurrection and the life. Conscious of this truth, let us ask him to fill us with his spirit, so that we may abandon the things of the flesh and be pleasing to God in all things.
FOR THE CHURCH: that she may continue to bring about spiritual rebirth in the world through the celebration of the sacraments. Let us pray to the Lord.
FOR THOSE IN CIVIL AUTHORITY: that they may commit themselves to ensuring that the young people of our country have access to good education and work. Let us pray to the Lord.
FOR VICTIMS OF NATURAL DISASTERS: that they may find consolation in God and receive concrete assistance from their brothers and sisters. Let us pray to the Lord.
FOR THIS WORSHIPPING COMMUNITY: that in our moments of adversity, we may never despair but remain faithful to God with whom nothing is impossible. Let us pray to the Lord.
For other intentions: (the sick, church projects or other activities).
FOR THE DEAD: especially those of our parish community and family members: that they may find eternal rest with the Lord. Let us pray to the Lord.
We pray in silence for our private intentions.
CELEBRANT:
God our Father, in you we find mercy and fullness of redemption. As we beg you to hear our prayers, guide our feet along the right path, so that, after our life here on earth, you may give life to our mortal bodies. Through Christ our Lord.
R/. Amen.
TODAY’S REFLECTION
The concept of a grave brings to mind the place of the dead, the place of no return, the place where there is no life. God in the first reading offered to open up the graves and raise His people from their graves; to bring them back to life. This concept of a life giving God is continued in the Gospel reading where Jesus Christ brought Lazarus who was already dead and decomposing back to life. Jesus wanted Martha and everyone to know that it is through him that Lazarus would rise again. To believe in Jesus is to have life. Death therefore is not the end of one’s life. Jesus who is the resurrection and the life offers this life to us whenever we go to Mass; when we pray and whenever we study the sacred scriptures. Let us allow Christ to bring us out of our graves.
PERSONAL DEVOTIONAL FOR LENT SUNDAY:
We are gifted in different ways, but by the same God and our gifts are meant to be put into use for the glory of God. Therefore, when you refuse to use your gift(s) or stop others from using their gift(s), you will be doing the world and yourself a disservice and most importantly you will be disrespecting God who has generously endowed you with these gifts. Take a deep inner look at yourself and see the gifts you have that are lying dormant and yearning to be put into use. Activate them and use them for God's glory and be ready to let others use their own gifts which you do not have for the glory of God too.
Today, make use of that your gift for the good of others and more importantly to the glory of God. You have freely received from God, therefore, be willing and ready to use the gifts freely for the good of humanity. Do not let your gift waste away anymore.
Monday March 27, 2023
Weekday of Lent (5)
Office: Psalter Week 1
Mass prop., Preface of Passion 1
Vestment: Violet
Today’s Rosary: The Joyful Mysteries
ENTRANCE ANTIPHON ct. Ps 56:2
Have mercy on me, O God, for people assail me; they fight me all day long and oppress me.
COLLECT
O God, by whose wondrous grace we are enriched with every blessing, grant us so to pass from former ways to newness of life, that we may be made ready for the glory of the heavenly Kingdom. Through our Lord. . .
-FIRST READING-
Now I am to die, yet I have done none of these things.
A reading from the Book of the Prophet Daniel (Daniel 13:1-9.15-17.19-30.33-62)
In those days: There was a man living in Babylon whose name was Joakim. And he took a wife named Susanna, the daughter of Hilkiah, a very beautiful woman and one who feared the Lord. Her parents were righteous, and had taught their daughter according to the Law of Moses. Joakim was very rich, and had a spacious garden adjoining his house; and the Jews used to come to him because he was the most honoured of them all. In that year two elders from the people were appointed as judges. Concerning them the Lord had said: Iniquity came forth from Babylon, from elders who were judges, who were supposed to govern the people. These men were frequently at Joakim’s house, and all who had suits at law came to them. When the people departed at moon, Susanna would go into her husband’s garden to walk. The two elders used to see her every day, going in and walking about, and they began to desire her. And they perverted their minds and turned away their eyes from looking to Heaven or remembering righteous judgements. Once, while they were watching for an opportune day, she went in as before with only two maids, and wished to bathe in the garden, for it was very hot. And no one was there except the two elders, who had hid themselves and were watching her. She said to her maids, “Bring me oil and ointments, and shut the garden doors so that I may bathe.” When the maids had gone out, the two elders rose and ran to her, and said: “Look, the garden doors are shut, no one sees us, and we are in love with you, so give your consent, and lie with us. If you refuse, we will testify against you that a young man was with you, and this was why you sent your maids away.” Susanna sighed deeply, and said, “I am hemmed in on every side. For if I do this thing, it is death for me; and if I do not, I shall not escape your hands. I choose not to do it and to fall into your hands, rather than to sin in the sight of the Lord.” Then Susanna cried out with a loud voice, and the two elders shouted against her. And one of them ran and opened the garden doors. When the household servants heard the shouting in the garden, they rushed in at the side door to see what had happened to her. And when the elders told their tale, the servants were greatly ashamed, for nothing like this had ever been said about Susanna. The next day, when the people gathered at the house of her husband Joakim, the two elders came, full of their wicked plot to have Susanna put to death. They said before the people, “Send for Susanna, the daughter of Hilkiah, who is the wife of Joakim.” So they sent for her. And she came, with her parents, her children, and all her kindred. But her family and friends and all who saw her wept. Then the two elders stood up in the midst of the people, and laid their hands upon her head. And she, weeping, looked up towards heaven, for her heart trusted in the Lord. The elders said, “As we were walking in the garden alone, this woman came in with two maids, shut the garden doors, and dismissed the maids. Then a young man, who had been hidden, came to her and lay with her. We were in a corner of the garden, and when we saw this wickedness we ran to them. We saw them embracing, but we could not hold the man, for he was too strong for us, and he opened the doors and dashed out. So we seized this woman and asked her who the young man was, but she would not tell us. These things we testify.” The assembly believed them, because they were elders of the people and judges; and they condemned her to death. Then Susanna cried out with a loud voice, and said, “O eternal God, who discern what is secret, who are aware of all things before they come to be, you know that these men have borne false witness against me. And now I am to die! Yet I have done none of the things that they have wickedly invented against me!” The Lord heard her cry. And as she was being led away to be put to death God aroused the holy spirit of a young lad named Daniel; and he cried with a loud voice, “I am innocent of the blood of this woman.” All the people turned to him, and said, “What is this that you have said?” Taking his stand in the midst of them, he said, “Are you such fools, you sons of Israel? Have you condemned a daughter of Israel without examination and without learning the facts? Return to the place of judgement. For these men have borne false witness against her.” Then all the people returned in haste. And the elders said to him, “Come, sit among us and inform us, for God has given you that right.” And Daniel said to them, “Separate them far from each other, and I will examine them.” When they were separated from each other, he summoned one of them and said to him, “You old relic of wicked days, your sins have now come home, which you have committed in the past, pronouncing unjust judgements, condemning the innocent and letting the guilty go free, though the Lord said, ‘Do not put to death an innocent and righteous person.’ Now then, if you really saw her, tell me this: Under what tree did you see them being intimate with each other?” He answered, “Under a mastic tree.” And Daniel said, “Very well! You have lied against your own head, for the angel of God has received the sentence from God and will immediately cut you in two.” Then he put him aside, and commanded them to bring the other. And he said to him, “You offspring of Canaan and not of Judah, beauty has deceived you and lust has perverted your heart. This is how you both have been dealing with the daughters of Israel, and they were intimate with you through fear; but a daughter of Judah would not endure your wickedness. Now then, tell me: Under what tree did you catch them being intimate with each other?” He answered, “Under an evergreen oak.” And Daniel said to him, “Very well! You also have lied against your own head, for the angel of God is waiting with his sword to saw you in two, that he may destroy you both.” Then all the assembly shouted loudly and blessed God, who saves those who hope in him. And they rose against the two elders, for out of their own mouths Daniel had convicted them of bearing false witness; and they did to them as they had wickedly planned to do to their neighbour; acting in accordance with the Law of Moses, they put them to death. Thus innocent blood was saved that day.
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM 23:1-3a.3b-4.5.6 (R. 4abc)
R/. Though I should walk in the valley of the shadow of death,
no evil would I fear, for you are with me.
The Lord is my shepherd; there is nothing I shall want.
Fresh and green are the pastures where he gives me repose.
Near restful waters he leads me; he revives my soul. R/.
He guides me along the right path,
for the sake of his name.
Though I should walk in the valley of the shadow of death,
no evil would I fear, for you are with me.
Your crook and your staff will give me comfort. R/.
R/. Though I should walk in the valley of the shadow of death,
no evil would I fear, for you are with me.
You have prepared a table before me
in the sight of my foes.
My head you have anointed with oil;
my cup is overflowing. R/.
Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me
all the days of my life.
In the Lord’s own house shall I dwell
for length of days unending. R/.
Gospel Acclamation Ezekiel 33:11
Glory and praise to you, O Christ.
I have no pleasure in the death of the wicked, says the Lord, but that he turn from his way and live. Glory and praise to you, O Christ.
-GOSPEL-
Let him who is without sin among you be the first to throw a stone at her.
A reading from the holy Gospel according to John (John 8:1-11)
At that time: Jesus went to the Mount of Olives. Early in the morning he came again to the temple; all the people came to him, and he sat down and taught them. The scribes and the Pharisees brought a woman who had been caught in adultery, and placing her in their midst they said to him, Teacher, this woman has been caught in the act of adultery. Now in the law Moses commanded us to stone such. What do you say about her? This they said to test him, that they might have some charge to bring against him. Jesus bent down and wrote with his finger on the ground. And as they continued to ask him, he stood up and said to them, Let him who is without sin among you be the first to throw a stone at her. And once more he bent down and wrote with his finger on the ground. But when they heard it, they went away, one by one, beginning with the eldest, and Jesus was left alone with the woman standing before him. Jesus looked up and said to her, Woman, where are they? Has no one condemned you? She said, No one, Lord. And Jesus said, neither do I condemn you; go, and do not sin again.
The Gospel of the Lord.
TODAY’S REFLECTION
Light is an important symbol in the celebration of the Feast of Tabernacles or Booths. By proclaiming that He is the light of the world, Jesus declares Himself to be the true fulfilment of the Tabernacles of Joy and hope. The lights at the feast illuminate only the city of Jerusalem, hut Jesus illuminates the whole world. The response to this light can be one of two: One can coopt to follow the light and so have the light of life, or choose to walk in darkness. The choice between light and darkness exists even today. There are numerous times when we too choose darkness over light because it is more appealing and convenient, as Jesus' opponents do. If, like Jesus, we are able to see beyond the merely physical and recognize light for what it is, we will always opt for the light. How will you show today that you have opted for light and not darkness.
PERSONAL DEVOTIONAL FOR LENT DAY 31:
The world is a noisy place and if we do not try to seek solitude we will be lost in the noise and will be unable to connect with God, pray to Him and listen to Him speak to us. Silence, both interior and exterior is very urgently needed in this time and age, because it helps us to pray well and more importantly to hear God when He speaks to us and if we hear Him and act in accordance to His guidance we will not be deafened by the noise of the world.
Today, try and access how noisy you have become. Work on yourself by seeking solitude. Try to have a quiet time where you can be alone with God and straighten your rough paths.
Tuesday March 28, 2023
Weekday of Lent (5)
Office: Psalter Week 1
Mass prop., Preface of Passion 1
Vestment: Violet
Today’s Rosary: The Sorrowful Mysteries
ENTRANCE ANTIPHON PS 27: 14
Wait for the Lord; be strong; be stouthearted, and wait for the Lord!
COLLECT
Grant us, we pray, O Lord, perseverance in obeying your will, that in our days the people dedicated to your service may grow in both merit and number. Through our Lord. . .
-FIRST READING-
One who is bitten, who sees the serpent, shall live.
A reading from the Book of Numbers (Numbers 21:4-9)
In those days: From Mount Hor the Hebrews set out by the way to the Red Sea, to go around the land of Edom; and the people became impatient on the way. And the people spoke against God and against Moses, “Why have you brought us up out of Egypt to die in the wilderness? For there is no food and no water, and we loathe this worthless food.” Then the Lord sent fiery serpents among the people, and they bit the people, so that many people of Israel died. And the people came to Moses, and said, “We have sinned, for we have spoken against the Lord and against you; pray to the Lord, that he take away the serpents from us.” So Moses prayed for the people. And the Lord said to Moses, “Make a fiery serpent, and set it up as a sign; and every one who is bitten, when he sees it, shall live.” So Moses made a bronze serpent, and set it up as a sign; and if a serpent bit any man, he would look at the bronze serpent and live.
The word, of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Psalm102: 1 -2.15-17. 18—20 (R. 1)
R/. O Lord, hear my prayer, and let my cry come to you. O Lord, and let my cry come to you.
Do not hide your face from me
in the day of my distress.
Turn your ear towards me;
on the day when I call,
speedily answer me. R/.
The nations shall fear the name of the Lord,
and all the earth’s kings your glory.
When the Lord shall build up Sion,
he will appear in all his glory.
Then he will turn to the prayers of the helpless;
he will not despise their prayers. R/.
R/. O Lord, hear my prayer, and let my cry come to you. O Lord, and let my cry come to you.
Let this be written for ages to come,
that a people yet unborn may praise the Lord;
the Lord looked down from His holy place on high,
looked down from heaven to the earth,
to hear the groans of the prisoners,
and free those condemned to die. R/.
VERSE BEFORE THE GOSPEL
Glory and praise to you, O Christ.
The seed is the word of God, and the sower is Christ; all who find him will abide for ever.
Glory and praise to you, O Christ.
-GOSPEL-
“When you have lifted up the Son of man, then you will know that I am he.”
A reading from the holy Gospel according to John (John 8:21-30)
At that time: Jesus said to the Pharisees, “I go away, and you will seek me and die in your sin; where I am going, you cannot come.” Then said the Jews, “Will he kill himself, since he says, ‘Where I am going, you can not come’?” He said to them, “You are from below, I am from above; you are of this world, I am not of this world. I told you that you would die in your sins, for you will die in your sins unless you believe that I am he.” They said to him, “Who are you?” Jesus said to them, “Even what I have told you from the beginning. I have much to say about you and much to judge; but he who sent me is true, and I declare to the world what I have heard from him.” They did not understand that he spoke to them of the Father. So Jesus said, “When you have lifted up the Son of man, then you will know that I am he, and that I do nothing on my own authority but speak thus as the Father taught me. And he who sent me is with me; he has not left me alone, for I always do what is pleasing to him.” As he spoke thus, many believed in him.
The Gospel of the Lord.
DAILY REFLECTION
The Israelites were at it again. They rebelled against God and his servant Moses. They were duly punished with an invasion of serpents. God directed Moses to make a bronze replica of the serpent to save those who looked at it after being bitten. In the Gospel, the Jews were again at war with Jesus. They would not accept him for who he said he was. They asked him pointedly, “Who are you?” Jesus told them that they would know who he was when they would have lifted him up as Moses did the serpent in the wilderness. Through his crucifixion, Jesus would accomplish the salvation of the entire human race, including those Jews who refused to accept him.
PERSONAL DEVOTIONAL FOR LENT
We are gifted in different ways, but by the same God and our gifts are meant to be put into use for the glory of God. Therefore, when you refuse to use your gift(s) or stop other from using their gift(s), you will be dong the world and yourself a disservice and most importantly you will be disrespecting God who has generously endowed you with these gifts.
Today, make use of that your gift for the good of others and more importantly to the glory of God. You have freely received from God, therefore, be willing to use the gifts freely for the good of humanity. Do not let your gift waste away anymore
Let Us Pray
Heavenly Father, help me and all your children to discover and activate our gifts for our good and your glory. May your name be glorified as we work in the world. Amen.
Wednesday March 29, 2023
Weekday of Lent (5)
Office: Psalter Week 1
Mass prop., Preface of Passion 1
Vestment: Violet
Today’s Rosary: The Glorious Mysteries
ENTRANCE ANTIPHON CF. PS 18:48-49
My deliverer from angry nations, you set me above my assailants; you saved me from the violent man, O Lord.
COLLECT
Enlighten, O God of compassion, the hearts of your children, sanctified by penance, and in your kindness grant those you stir to a sense of devotion, a gracious hearing when they cry out to you. Through our Lord..
-FIRST READING-
“He has sent his angel and delivered his servants.”
A reading from the Book of the Prophet Daniel (Daniel 3:14-20.24-25.28)
In those days: King Nebuchadnezzar said, “Is it true, O Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, that you do not serve my gods or worship the golden image which I have set up? Now if you are ready when you hear the sound of the horn, pipe, lyre, trigon, harp, bagpipe, and every kind of music to fall down and worship the image which I have made, well and good; but if you do not worship, you shall immediately be cast into a burning fiery furnace; and who is the god that will deliver you out of my hands?” Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego answered the king, “O Nebuchadnezzar, we have no need to answer you in this matter. If it be so, our God, whom we serve is able to deliver us from the burning fiery furnace; and he will deliver us out of your hand, O king. But if not, be it known to you, O king, that we will not serve your gods or worship the golden image which you have set up.” Then Nebuchadnezzar was full of fury, and the expression of his face was changed against Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego. He ordered the furnace heated seven times more than it was accustomed to be heated. And he ordered certain mighty men of his army to bind Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, and to cast them into the burning fiery furnace. Then King Nebuchadnezzar was astonished and rose up in haste. He said to his counsellors, “Did we not cast three men bound into the fire?” They answered the king, “True, O king.” He answered, “But I see four men loose, walking in the midst of the fire, and they are not hurt; and the appearance of the fourth is like a son of the gods.” Nebuchadnezzar said, “Blessed be the God of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, who has sent his angel and delivered his servants, who trusted in him, and set at naught the king’s command, and yielded up their bodies rather than serve and worship any god except their own God.”
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Daniel 3:29-30.31.33.32.34 (R. 29b)
R/. You are to be praised and highly exalted for ever.
Blessed are you, O Lord, God of our fathers,
and to be praised and highly exalted for ever;
And blessed is your glorious, holy name
and to be highly praised and highly exalted for ever. R/.
Blessed are you in the temple of your holy glory
and to be extolled and highly glorified for ever. R/.
Blessed are you upon the throne of your kingdom
and to be extolled and highly exalted for ever. R/.
R/. You are to be praised and highly exalted for ever.
Blessed are you, who sit upon cherubim
and look upon the deeps,
and to be praised and highly exalted for ever. R/.
Blessed are you in the firmament of heaven
and to be sung and glorified for ever. R/.
VERSE BEFORE THE GOSPEL Luke 8: 15
Glory and praise to you, O Christ.
Blessed are those who, hearing the word, hold it fast in an honest and good heart, and bring forth fruit with patience.
Glory and praise to you, O Christ.
-GOSPEL-
“If the Son makes you free, you will be free indeed.”
A reading from the holy Gospel according to John (John 8:31-42)
At that time: Jesus said to the Jews who had believed in him, “If you continue in my word, you are truly my disciples, and you will know the truth, and the truth will make you free.” They answered him, “We are descendants of Abraham, and have never been in bondage to any one. How is it that you say, ‘You will be made free’?” Jesus answered them, “Truly, truly, I say to you, every one who commits sin is a slave to sin. The slave does not continue in the house for ever; the son continues for ever. So if the Son makes you free, you will be free indeed. I know that you are descendants of Abraham; yet you seek to kill me, because my word finds no place in you. I speak of what I have seen with my Father, and you do what you have heard from your father.” They answered him, “Abraham is our father.” Jesus said to them, “If you were Abraham’s children, you would do what Abraham did, but now you seek to kill me, a man who has told you the truth which I heard from God; this is not what Abraham did. You do the works of your father.” They said to him, “We were not born of fornication; we have one Father, even God.” Jesus said to them, “If God were your Father, you would love me, for I proceeded and came forth from God; I came not of my own accord, but he sent me.”
The Gospel of the Lord.
TODAY’S REFLECTION
The Jews in the Gospel were suffering from self-delusion. They claimed that they had never been in bondage to anyone. That was a lie. All through its history, the Jewish nation had been in bondage to one foreign power after another: the Egyptians, the Philistines, the Assyrians, the Babylonians, the Persians and the Greeks. At the very time they were speaking to Jesus, their country was in bondage to the Romans. What they did not know was that they were even in bondage to a far greater power than them all, Satan. Jesus had come to free them and all humankind from the bondage. But if they insisted that they were free, he could not help them. Only those who admit their need to be freed from the yoke of Satan can benefit from the freedom that Jesus brings.
Personal Devotional for Lent
The spiritual life is a battle between light and darkness, good and evil. Those who are afraid to fight the battle will end up being the losers, but those who fight on the side of light and good will definitely be victorious. As followers of Jesus we should not expect anything less. If He could be tempted by the devil, then we also could face temptation and if He overcame the devil, we also could overcome him too.
This is a time to go into the desert and draw the spiritual energy and strength with which to continue to fight the spiritual battle. If we must keep the covenant we have with God, we must be ready to make a withdrawal from time to time to the desert where we will fight the battle on the side of good and overcome.
We have a pact with God and we must strive every day to keep to the covenant we have entered into by virtue of our baptism and when this is done in all sincerity we will definitely come out victorious in our spiritual battle with the forces of evil.
Let us Pray:
Lord Jesus, in my anguish I call to you, save me lest I perish. Amen.
Thursday March 30, 2023
Weekday of Lent (A)
Office: Psalter Week 1
Mass prop., Preface of Passion 1
Vestment: Violet
Today’s Rosary: The Luminous Mysteries
ENTRANCE ANTIPHON
Christ is mediator of a New Covenant, so that by means of his death, those who are called may receive the promise of an eternal inheritance.
COLLECT
Be near, O Lord, to those who plead before you, and look kindly on those who place their hope in your mercy, that, cleansed from the stain of their sins, they may persevere in holy living and be made full heirs of your promise. Through our Lord.
-FIRST READING-
“You shall be the father of a multitude of Nations.”
A reading from the Book of Genesis (Genesis 17.3-9)
In those days: Abram fell on his face; and God said to him, “Behold, my covenant is with you, and you shall be the father of a multitude of nations. No longer shall your name be Abram, but your name shall be Abraham; for I have made you the father of a multitude of nations. I will make you exceedingly fruitful; and I will make nations of you, and kings shall come forth from you. And I will establish my covenant between me and you and your descendants after you throughout their generations for an everlasting covenant, to be God to you and to your descendants after you. And I will give to you, and to your descendants after you, the land of your sojournings, all the land of Canaan, for an everlasting possession; and I will be their God.” And God said to Abraham, “As for you, you shall keep my covenant, you and your descendants after you throughout their generations.”
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Psalm 105:4-5.6-7.8-9 (R. 8a)
R/. The Lord remembers his covenant forever.
Turn to the Lord and his strength;
constantly seek his face.
Remember the wonders he has done,
his marvels and his words of judgement. R/.
O children of Abraham, his servant,
O descendants of the Jacob he chose,
he, the Lord, is our God;
his judgements are in all the earth. R/.
R/. The Lord remembers his covenant forever.
He remembers his covenant forever:
the promise he ordained for a thousand generations,
the covenant he made with Abraham,
the oath he swore to Isaac. R/.
VERSE BEFORE THE GOSPEL Psalm 95:7d.8a
Glory and praise to you, O Christ.
Today, harden not your hearts, but listen to the voice of the Lord.
Glory and praise to you, O Christ.
-GOSPEL-
“Your father Abraham rejoice that he was to see my day”
A reading from the holy Gospel according to John 8:51-59
Jesus said to the Jews, “Truly, truly, I say to you, if any one keeps my word, he will never see death.” The Jews said to him, “Now we know that you have a demon. Abraham died, as did the prophets; and you say, ‘If any one keeps my word, he will never taste death.’ Are you greater than our father Abraham, who died? And the prophets died! Who do you claim to be?” Jesus answered, “If I glorify myself, my glory is nothing; it is my Father who glorifies me, of whom you say that he is your God. But you have not known him; I know him. If I said, I do not know him, I should be a liar like you; but I do know him and I keep his word. Your father Abraham rejoiced that he was to see my day; he saw it and was glad.” The Jews then said to him, “You are not yet fifty years old, and have you seen Abraham?” Jesus said to them, “Truly, truly, I say to you, before Abraham was, I am.” So they took up stones to throw at him; but Jesus hid himself, and went out of the temple.
The Gospel of the Lord.
TODAY’S REFLECTION
What Jesus said was that Abraham saw his day and was glad. The Jews misunderstood him to mean that he saw Abraham physically. Abraham saw the day of Jesus in the descendants that God promised him in today’s First Reading. God sealed and everlasting covenant with Abraham to be God to him and to his descendants. Those descendants were rights there in the times of Jesus, and they were seeing the day of Jesus on behalf of their ancestor Abraham and on their own behalf. But, as Saint Paul would later say, the true descendants of Abraham are those who share in his faith in every age (Romans 4:16). They are the ones who have been the day of the Son of God, and are glad. They have subsequently become his disciples.
PERSONAL DEVOTIONAL FOR LENT
The spiritual life is a battle between light and darkness, good and evil. Those who are afraid to fight the battle will end up being the losers, but those who fight on the side of light and good will definitely be victorious. As followers of Jesus we should not expect anything less. If He could be tempted by the devil, then we also could face temptation and if He overcame the devil, we also could overcome him too.
This is a time to go into the desert and draw the spiritual energy and strength with which to continue to fight the spiritual battle. If we must keep the covenant we have with God, we must be ready to make a withdrawal from time to time to the desert where we will fight the battle on the side of good and overcome.
We have a pact with God and we must strive everyday to keep to the covenant we have entered into by virtue of our baptism and when this is done in all sincerity we will definitely come out victorious in our spiritual battle with the forces of evil.
Let us Pray:
Lord Jesus, in my anguish I call to you, save me lest I perish. Amen.
Friday March 31, 2023
Weekday of Lent (5)
Office: Psalter Week 1
Mass prop., Preface of Passion 1
Vestment: Violet
Today’s Rosary: The Sorrowful Mysteries
ENTRANCE ANTIPHON PS 31: 10.16. 18
Have mercy on me, O Lord, for I am in distress. Deliver me from the hands of my enemies and those who pursue me. O Lord, let me never be put to shame, for I call on you.
COLLECT
Pardon the offences of your peoples, we pray, O Lord, and in your goodness set us free from the bonds of the sins we have committed in our weakness. Through our Lord. .
or
O God, who in this season give your Church the grace to imitate devoutly the Blessed Virgin Mary in contemplating the Passion of Christ, grant, we pray, through her intercession, that we may cling more firmly each day to your Only Begotten Son and come at last to the fullness of his grace. Who lives and reigns with you. .
-FIRST READING-
“The Lord is with me as a dread warrior. ”
A reading from the Book of Jeremiah (Jeremiah 20:10-13)
I hear many whispering. Terror is on every side! “Denounce him! Let us denounce him!” say all my familiar friends, watching for my fall. “Perhaps he will be deceived, then we can overcome him, and take our revenge on him.” But the Lord is with me as a dread warrior; therefore my persecutors will stumble, they will not overcome me. They will be greatly shamed, for they will not succeed. Their eternal dishonour will never be forgotten. O Lord of hosts, who test the righteous, who see the heart and the mind, let me see your vengeance upon them, for to you have I committed my cause. Sing to the Lord; praise the Lord! For he has delivered the life of the needy from the hand of evildoers.
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Psalm18:1-2a.2bc-3.4-5.6 (R. see 6)
R/. In my anguish I called to the Lord, and he heard me.
I love you, Lord, my strength;
O Lord, my rock, my fortress, my saviour. R/.
My God, my rock where I take refuge;
my shield, my saving strength, my stronghold.
I cry out, “Praised be the Lord!”
and see, I am saved from my foes. R/.
R/. In my anguish I called to the Lord, and he heard me.
The waves of death rose about me;
the torrents of destruction assailed me;
the snares of the grave surrounded me;
the traps of death confronted me. R/.
In my anguish I called to the Lord;
I cried to my God for help.
From his temple he heard my voice;
my cry to him reached his ears. R/.
VERSE BEFORE THE GOSPEL John 6:63c.68c
Glory and praise to you, O Christ.
Your words, Lord, Are Spirit and life; you have the words of eternal life.
Glory and praise to you, O Christ.
-GOSPEL-
“They tried to arrest him, but he escaped from their hands. ”
A reading from the holy Gospel according to John (John 10:31-42)
At that time: The Jews took up stones to stone Jesus. Jesus answered them, “I have shown you many good works from the Father; for which of these do you stone me?” The Jews answered him, “We stone you for no good work but for blasphemy; because you, being a man, make yourself God.” Jesus answered them, “Is it not written in your law, ‘I said, you are gods’? If he called them gods to whom the word of God came (and Scripture cannot be nullified), do you say of him whom the Father consecrated and sent into the world, ‘You are blaspheming,’ because I said, ‘I am the Son of God’? If I am not doing the works of my Father, then do not believe me; but if I do them, even though you do not believe me, believe the works, that you may know and understand that the Father is in me and I am in the Father.” Again they tried to arrest him, but he escaped from their hands. He went away again across the Jordan to the place where John at first baptised, and there he remained. And many came to him; and they said, “John did no sign, but everything that John said about this man was true.” And many believed in him there.
The Gospel of the Lord.
DAILY REFLECTION
“Actions speak louder than words”-that is what Jesus implies in today’s Gospel. The Jews accused him of blasphemy because he claimed to be the Son of God. They understood that rightly to mean that he was a divine Person, equal to God. In their mind, that was blasphemy, and the punishment for it was death. Jesus invited them to look at his actions, the miracles he performed. Who else could do such things if not a divine person? If what he said about himself did not convince them, then his actions should convince them. The Jews were not impressed. They still wanted to arrest him and have him put to death. Every day God’s works abound in the lives of believers. We need faith to be able to see them and recognize them as coming from him.
Personal Devotional for Lent
There is only one channel through which we communicate and commune with God, that is, through prayer. God answers prayers when we pray well and through our attitude of prayer we can please God or displease him. It is not the quantity of words we use in prayers that matter or make it to be heard by God, but the quality of our words and disposition. God already knows what we need even before we ask Him, but we must be ready to pray in the manner that Jesus has taught us.
A good prayer must begin with praise and respect for God, in humility we ask Him for our daily provisions and also pray for the needs of others. We must acknowledge our sins before him and ask for forgiveness as we are willing to forgive others. Finally we ask for His grace to conquer temptations and for His deliverance from evil.
Raise the standard of your prayer life, improve the quality of the words you use in addressing God and you will definitely witness a new turn in the response you get from God. Your break-through will surely shine out like the brightness of the sun for the word that proceeds from the mouth of the Lord for you will never return back to Him empty.
Let us Pray:
Lord Jesus, teach me to love others as you loved us and gave your life for our sake. Amen.
Saturday April 1, 2023
Weekday of Lent (5)
Office: Psalter Week 1
Mass prop., Preface of Passion 1
Vestment: Violet
Today’s Rosary: The Joyful Mysteries
Vespers I of Palm Sunday
HOLY WEEK BEGINS TOMORROW
ENTRANCE ANTIPHON Cf. Ps 22:20.7
O Lord, do not stay afar off; my strength, make haste to help me! For I am a worm and no man, scorned by everyone, despised by the people.
COLLECT
O God, who have made all those reborn in Christ a chosen race and a royal priesthood, grant us, we pray, the grace to will and to do what you command, that the people called to eternal life may be one in the faith of their hearts and the homage of their deeds. Through our Lord..
-FIRST READING-
“I will make them one nation.”
A reading from the Book of the Prophet Ezekiel (Ezekiel 37:21-28)
Thus says the Lord GOD: “Behold, I will take the sons of Israel from the nations among Which they have gone, and will gather them from all sides, and bring them to their own land; and I will make them one nation in the land, upon the mountains of Israel; and one king shall be king over them all; and they shall be no longer two nations, and no longer divided into two kingdoms. They shall not defile themselves any more with their idols and their detestable things, or with any of their transgressions; but I will save them from all the backslidings in which they have sinned, and will cleanse them; and they shall be my people, and I will be their God. “My servant David shall be king over them; and they shall all have one shepherd. They shall follow my ordinances and be careful to observe my statutes. They shall dwell in the land where your fathers dwelt that I gave to my servant Jacob; they and their children and their children’s children shall dwell there for ever; and David my servant shall be their prince for ever. I will make a covenant of peace with them; it shall be an everlasting covenant with them; and I will bless them and multiply them, and will set my sanctuary in the midst of them for evermore. My dwelling place shall be with them; and I will be their God, and they shall be my people. Then the nations will know that I the Lord sanctify Israel, when my sanctuary is in the midst of them for evermore.”
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Jeremiah 31: 10.11-12ab.13 (R. see 10d)
R/. The Lord will keep us, as a shepherd keeps his flock.
Hear the word of the Lord, O nations,
and declare it in the islands afar off;
say, “He who scattered Israel will gather him,
and will keep him as a shepherd keeps his flock.” R/.
For the Lord has ransomed Jacob,
and has redeemed him from hands too strong for him.
They shall come and sing aloud on the height of Sion,
and they shall be radiant over the goodness of the Lord. R/.
R/. The Lord will keep us, as a shepherd keeps his flock.
Then shall the maidens rejoice in the dance,
and the young men and the old shall be merry.
I will turn their mourning into joy,
I will comfort them, and give them gladness for sorrow. R/.
VERSE BEFORE THE GOSPEL Ezekiel 18:31
Glory and praise to you, O Christ. Cast away from you all the transgressions which you have committed, says the Lord, and get yourselves a new heart and a new spirit. Glory and praise to you, O Christ.
-GOSPEL-
“Together into one the children of God who are scattered abroad.”
A reading from the holy Gospel according to John (John 11:45-57)
At that time: Many of the Jews who had come with Mary and had seen what Jesus did, believed in him; but some of them went to the Pharisees and told them what Jesus had done. So the chief priests and the Pharisees gathered the council, and said, “What are we to do? For this man performs many signs. If we let him go on like this, every one will believe in him, and the Romans will come and destroy both our holy place and our nation.” But one of them, Caiaphas, who was high priest that year, said to them, “You know nothing at all; you do not understand that it is expedient for you that one man should die for the people, and that the whole nation should not perish.” He did not say this of his own accord, but being high priest that year he prophesied that Jesus should die for the nation, and not for the nation only, but to gather into one the children of God who are scattered abroad. So from that day on they took counsel about how to put him to death. Jesus therefore no longer went about openly among the Jews, but went from there to the country near the wilderness, to a town called Ephraim; and there he stayed with the disciples. Now the Passover of the Jews was at hand, and many went up from the country to Jerusalem before the Passover, to purify themselves. They were looking for Jesus and saying to one another as they stood in the temple, “What do you think? That he will not come to the feast?” Now the chief priests and the Pharisees had given orders that if any one knew where he was, he should let them know, so that they might arrest him.
The Gospel of the Lord.
TODAY’S REFLECTION
With the approach of Holy Week, the tension between Jesus and the Jewish leaders was getting to a head. One event after another increased their animosity towards him. The latest was the raising of Lazarus from the dead. For them, that was one miracle too many. It had taken place in public. There was no way anyone could deny it. It had the potential of increasing Jesus’ popularity and the number of those believing in him. It was time to stop him in his tracks. The high priest Calaphas prophesied that he should die rather than that the whole nation should perish. His prophecy would come to pass in due course, except that the death of Jesus would not be for the sake of the Jewish nation alone, but for all of God’s children scattered throughout the world.
PERSONAL DEVOTIONAL FOR LENT
The world is a noisy place and if we do not try to seek solitude we will be lost in the noise and will be unable to connect with God, pray to Him and listen to Him speak to us. Silence, both interior and exterior is very urgently needed in this time and age, because it helps us to pray well and more importantly to hear God when He speaks to us and if we hear Him and act in accordance to His guidance we will not be deafened by the noise of the world.
Today, try and access how noisy you have become. Work on yourself by seeking solitude. Try to have a quiet time where you can be alone with God and straighten your rough paths.
Let Us Pray:
Help me O God to grow in my spiritual life. Deliver me from the noise in my life and in the world which deprive me from staying recollected in you. Amen.
Sunday April 2, 2023
PASSION SUNDAY (PALM SUNDAY)
Office: Prop., Psalter Week 2
Before procession, Gospel Lk 19:28-40
Mass Prop, Creed.
Preface of the Passion of the Lord
Vestment: Red
Today’s Rosary: The Glorious Mysteries
Vespers II of Palm Sunday
Other celebrations are not allowed, not even funeral Masses
Death Anniversary: Today is the 18th anniversary of the death of Pope St John Paul II (2/4/05)
PALM SUNDAY OF THE PASSION OF THE LORD.
Theme of the Sunday: Jesus Gives up His Life. The evangelists do not report the passion and death of Jesus to play on our emotions. They show us Christ who gave up his life for love of all people. The first reading tells us what happens to those who are faithful to this mission God has entrusted to them. The Gospel presents us with the only one who has fully realized in himself the image of servant. The second reading describes the journey of this servant from glory of the Father to the humiliation of the death on the cross, to the glorification of his resurrection. This is the path proposed to every person. The whole group of believers was united heart and soul; no one claimed for his own use anything that he had, as everything they owned was held in common (Acts 4:32).
Dear brethren (brothers and sisters), since the beginning of Lent until now we have prepared our hearts by penance and charitable works. Today we gather together to herald with the whole Church the beginning of the celebration of our Lord’s paschal mystery, that is to say, of his Passion and Resurrection. For it was to accomplish this mystery that he entered his own city of Jerusalem. Therefore, with all faith and devotion, let us commemorate the Lord’s entry into the city for our salvation, following in his foot- steps, so that being made by his grace partakers of the Cross, we may have a share also in his Resurrection and in his life.
After the address, the Priest says one of the following prayers with hands extended.
Let us pray,
Almighty ever living God, sanctify these branches with your blessing, that we who follow Christ the King in exultation, may reach the eternal Jerusalem through him. Who lives and reigns for ever and ever.
-GOSPEL-
Gospel Outside
A reading from the holy Gospel according to Luke (Luke 19.28-40)
Jesus went on ahead, going up to Jerusalem. When he drew near to Bethphage and Bethany, at the mount that is called Olivet, he sent two of the disciples, saying, “Go into the village opposite, where on entering you will find a colt tied, on which no one has ever yet sat; untie it and bring it here. If any one asks you, ‘Why are you untying it?’ you shall say this, ‘The Lord has need of it.”’ So those who were sent went away and found it as he had told them. And as they were untying the colt, its owners said to them, “Why are you untying the colt?” And they said, “The Lord has need of it.” And they brought it to Jesus, and throwing their garments on the colt they set Jesus upon it. And as he rode along, they spread their garments on the road. As he was now drawing near, at the descent of the Mount of Olives, the whole multitude of the disciples began to rejoice and praise God with a loud voice for all the mighty works that they had seen, saying, “Blessed is the King who comes in the name of the Lord! Peace in heaven and glory in the highest!” And some of the Pharisees in the multitude said to him, “Teacher, rebuke your disciples.” He answered, “I tell you, if these were silent, the very stones would cry out.”
The Gospel of the Lord.
After the Gospel, a brief homily may be given. Then, to begin the Procession, an invitation may be given by a Priest or a Deacon or a lay minister, in these or similar words:
AT THE MASS
After the Procession or Solemn Entrance the Priest begins the Mass with the Collect.
COLLECT
Almighty everlasting God, who as an example of humility for the human race to follow caused our Saviour to take flesh and submit to the cross, graciously grant that we may heed his lesson of patient suffering and so merit a share in his Resurrection. Who lives and reigns with you . . .
-FIRST READING-
“Hid not my face from shame, and I know I shall not be put to shame.” Third song of the Servant of the Lord.
A reading from the Book of Isaiah (Isaiah 50:4-7)
The Lord God has given me the tongue of those who are taught, that I may know how to sustain with a word him that is weary. Morning by morning he wakens, he wakens my ear to hear as those who are taught. The Lord God has opened my ear, and I was not rebellious, I turned not backward. I gave my back to those who struck me, and my cheeks to those who pulled out the beard; I hid not my face from shame and spitting. For the Lord God helps me; therefore I have not been confounded; therefore I have set my face like a flint, and I know that I shall not be put to shame.
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Ps 22:8-9.17-18a.19-20.23-24 (R. 2a)
R/. My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?
All who see me deride me;
they curl their lips, they toss their heads:
“He trusted in the Lord, let him save him;
let him release him, for in him he delights.” R/.
For dogs have surrounded me;
a band of the wicked besets me.
They tear holes in my hands and my feet;
I can count every one of my bones. R/.
R/. My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?
They divide my clothing among them,
they cast lots for my robe.
But you, O Lord, do not stay afar off;
my strength, make haste to help me! R/.
I will tell of your name to my kin,
and praise you in the midst of the assembly;
“You who fear the Lord, give him praise;
all descendants of Jacob, give him glory;
revere him, all you descendants of Israel.” R/.
-SECOND READING-
“He humbled himself, and God has highly exalted him”
A reading from the Letter of Saint Paul to the Philippians (Philippians 2:6-11)
Christ Jesus, though he was in the form of God, did not count equality with God a thing to be grasped, but emptied himself, taking the form of a servant, being born in the likeness of men. And being found in human form he humbled himself and became obedient unto death, even death on a cross. Therefore God has highly exalted him and bestowed on him the name which is above every name, that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.
The word of the Lord.
VERSE BEFORE THE GOSPEL Philippians2:8b-9
Glory and praise to you, O Christ. Christ became obedient for us unto death, even death on a cross. Therefore God has highly exalted him: and bestowed on him the name which is above every name. Glory and praise to you, O Christ.
The Passion of our Lord Jesus Christ according to Matthew (Matthew 26:14-27:66)
(The narrative of the Lords Passion is read without candles and without incense, with no greeting or signing of the book)
N: Narrator
C: Christ
S: Speaker other than Christ
------------------------------------
When it was evening, he sat at table with the twelve disciples; and as they were eating, he said,
The Son of man goes as it is written of him, but woe to that man by whom the Son of man is betrayed! It would have been better for that man if he had not been born.”
Then Jesus went with them to a place called Gethsemane, and he said to his disciples,
Then those who had seized Jesus led him to Caiaphas the high priest, where the scribes and the elders had gathered. But Peter followed him at a distance, as far as the courtyard of the high priest, and going inside he sat with the guards to see the end. Now the chief priests and the whole council sought false testimony against Jesus that they might put him to death, but they found none, though many false witnesses came forward. At last two came forward and said,
When morning came, all the chief priests and the elders of the people took counsel against Jesus to put him to death; and they bound him and led him away and delivered him to Pilate the governor. When Judas, his betrayer, saw that he was condemned, he repented and brought back the thirty pieces of silver to the chief priests and the elders, saying,
N So they took counsel, and bought with them the potter’s field, to bury strangers in. Therefore that field has been called the Field of Blood to this day. Then was fulfilled what had been spoken by the prophet Jeremiah, saying, “And they took the thirty pieces of silver, the price of him on whom a price had been set by some of the sons of Israel, and they gave them for the potter’s field, as the Lord directed me.”
*Now Jesus stood before the governor; and the governor asked him,
Now at the feast the governor was accustomed to release for the crowd any one prisoner whom they wanted. And they had then a notorious prisoner, called Barabbas. So when they had gathered, Pilate said to them,
And when they had mocked him, they stripped him of the robe, and put his own clothes on him, and led him away to crucify him. As they were marching out, they came upon a man of Cyrene, Simon by name; this man they compelled to carry his cross. And when they came to a place called Golgotha (which means the place of a skull), they offered him wine to drink, mingled with gall; but when he tasted it, he would not drink it. And when they had crucified him, they divided his garments among them by casting lots; then they sat down and kept watch over him there. And over his head they put the charge against him, which read, “This is Jesus the King of the Jews.” Then two robbers were crucified with him, one on the right and one on the left. And those who passed by derided him, wagging their heads, and saying,
Now from the sixth hour there was darkness over all the land until the ninth hour. And about the ninth hour Jesus cried with a loud voice,
All kneel and pause for a moment.
After the narrative of the Passion, a brief homily should take place, if appropriate. A period of silence may also be observed.
The Creed is said, and the Universal Prayer takes place.
PRAYER OF THE FAITHFUL
Celebrant:
Our celebration of today ushers us into the commemoration of the suffering, death and Resurrection of Christ. Let us pray that during the solemn celebrations of this Holy Week, we may be spiritually renewed, and so manifest in our lives, the fruits of the Lord’s paschal mystery.
FOR THE CHURCH: that she may courageously preach the crucified Christ amid the continuously growing threat of materialism. Let us pray to the Lord.
FOR PEOPLES OF ALL RACES AND NATIONS: that, through the crucified Christ, they may experience the joy and peace which the world cannot give. Let us pray to the Lord.
FOR THOSE IN DIFFICULTY OR ANGUISH: that they may see their suffering as partaking in the suffering of Christ who invites us to carry our cross daily and follow him. Let us pray to the Lord.
FOR OUR WORSHIPPING COMMUNITY: that we may develop a spirit of penitence during this period, and so share in the fruits of Christ’s Passion. Let us pray to the Lord.
FOR OTHER INTENTIONS: (the sick, church projects or other activities).
FOR THE DEAD: especially those of our parish community and family members: that they may find eternal rest with the Lord. Let us pray to the Lord.
We pray in silence for our private intentions.
Celebrant:
God our Father, through the suffering, death and Resurrection of your Son, you won for us eternal redemption. Help us, we humbly entreat you, to follow the teachings of Christ, so that we may come to share in the glory of eternal life. Through Christ our Lord.
R/. Amen.
TODAY’S REFLECTION
The best way to read the Bible and indeed the only way to read the Bible is to read ourselves into it, putting ourselves in the shoes of the characters within the Biblical stories thereby making the Bible become our examination of conscience. When we try to place ourselves in the characters of today’s Passion Narrative, we cannot but see how real the story becomes and how it contains so many lessons for us even today.
Our people say that it is the rat inside the house that goes to inform other rats outside that there is food in the house. The enemy outside cannot succeed without the permission or cooperation of the enemy inside. Again, in pidgin, there is the saying: “NA WHO KNOW MAN, NAI DEY KILL AM.” All these boils down to the person of Judas Iscariot. But wait, before you begin to judge him, why not ask: “Haven’t I betrayed my close friends in the past?” “Don’t I sit down to gossip about people very close to me using the secrets I know about them against them?”
Always remember that on the day of your birth, you brought nothing to this world and the day you die, you would take nothing with you. Let this thought never leave your heart. All your efforts to grab, accumulate and possess which sometimes lead you to fight others, keep malice, insult or keep enemies are useless because in the end, you will have to watch and see how every dime you have will go away. Judas sold Jesus for thirty pieces of silver. How much of that money did he spend?
Pilate knew Jesus was innocent “for he perceived that it was out of envy that the chief priests had delivered him up.” Mark 15:10. But just like you and me, he was more afraid of the crowd than the truth. He acted against his conscience to please the crowd and to secure his job. If I was Pilate, what would I have done differently?
The Passion Narrative teaches us a lot about ourselves. The bitter truth is humanity has not changed at all since the time of Jesus. We are still ruled by money, we still betray one another, we are still stingy, we do not pray well, and we often act to please the crowd, in short we are often crowd people, we do things not because it is right but because everyone is doing it. Like I once noted, if Jesus were to come back again as man, we would still kill him again. Do not repeat history. Change today. Become a better person.
PERSONAL DEVOTIONAL
As man Jesus died, but as God He saved us. They thought they were going to destroy Him once and for all by killing Him, but His death opened the channel of life and freedom to all those who were held captive.
By dying, Jesus destroyed our death and by rising from the dead He restored our life. This is a joyful moment, this is a hopeful moment, this is a day of glory and praise and we must rejoice and be glad.
We must become children of the light and we must also rise with Jesus into a newness of life. We must place our total trust in Jesus Christ because death and the grave could not hold Him captive, therefore, with Him we can overcome all that comes our way.
Let us Pray:
Lord Jesus, free me from the love of money and the desire to please people. Increase my love and devotion to you especially during this holy week. Amen.
Meditation: Genesis 22:1-18/Romans 6:3-11/Mark 16:1-7
Monday April 3, 2023
WEEKDAY OF HOLY WEEK
Office: Psalter Week 2
Mass prop, Preface of the Passion II
Vestment: Violet
Today’s Rosary: The Joyful Mysteries
ENTRANCE ANTIPHON Cf. Ps 35:1-2; 140:5
Contend, O Lord, with my contenders; fight those who fight me. Take up your buckler and shield; arise in my defense, Lord, my mighty help.
COLLECT
Grant, we pray, almighty God, that though in our weakness we fail, we may be revived through the Passion of your Only Begotten Son. Who lives and reigns with you...
-FIRST READING-
“He will not cry or lift up his voice, or make it heard in the street.” (First song of the servant of the Lord)
A reading from the Book of Isaiah (Isaiah 42: 1-7)
Behold my servant, whom I uphold, my chosen, in whom my soul delights; I have put my Spirit upon him, he will bring forth justice to the nations. He will not cry or lift up his voice, or make it heard in the street; a bruised reed he will not break, and a dimly burning wick he will not quench; he will faithfully bring forth justice. He will not fail or be discouraged till he has established justice in the earth; and the islands wait for his law. Thus says God, the Lord, who created the heavens and stretched them out, who spread forth the earth and what comes from it, who gives breath to the people upon it and spirit to those who walk in it: “I am the Lord, I have called you in righteousness, I have taken you by the hand and kept you; I have given you as a covenant to the people, a light to the nations, to open the eyes that are blind, to bring out the prisoners from the dungeon, from the prison those who sit in darkness.
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Psalm 27: 1.2.3.13-14 (R. 1a)
R/. The Lord is my light and my salvation.
The Lord is my light and my salvation;
whom shall I fear?
The Lord is the stronghold of my life;
whom should I dread? R/.
When those who do evil draw near
to devour my flesh,
it is they, my enemies and foes,
who stumble and fall. R/.
R/. The Lord is my light and my salvation.
Though an army encamp against me,
my heart would not fear.
Though war break out against me,
even then would I trust. R/.
I believe I shall see the Lord's goodness
in the land of the living.
Wait for the Lord; be strong;
be stouthearted, and wait for the Lord! R/.
VERSE BEFORE THE GOSPEL
Glory and praise to you, O Christ. Hail, our King: you alone have had mercy on our failings! Glory and praise to you, O Christ.
-GOSPEL-
“Let her keep it for the day of my burial.”
A reading from the holy Gospel according to John (John 12.1-11)
Six days before the Passover, Jesus came to Bethany, where Lazarus was, whom Jesus had raised from the dead. There they made him a supper; Martha served, and Lazarus was one of those at table with him. Mary took a pound of costly ointment of pure nard and anointed the feet of Jesus and wiped his feet with her hair; and the house was filled with the fragrance of the ointment. But Judas Iscariot, one of his disciples (he who was to betray him), said, “Why was this ointment not sold for three hundred denarii and given to the poor?” This he said, not that he cared for the poor but because he was a thief, and as he had the money box he used to take what was put into it. Jesus said, “Let her alone, let her keep it for the day of my burial. The poor you always have with you, but you do not always have me.” When the great crowd of the Jews learned that he was there, they came, not only on account of Jesus but also to see Lazarus, whom he had raised from the dead. So the chief priests planned to put Lazarus also to death, because on account of him many of the Jews were going away and believing in Jesus.
The Gospel of the Lord.
TODAY’S REFLECTION
The mission of prophet Isaiah would be to bring justice for the poor and the marginalized. Somehow, that was in line with the complaint of Judas about the ointment that Mary “wasted” on Jesus, when it could have been sold and the proceeds given to the poor. The response of Jesus implies that the poor could still be taken care of even after the ointment had been poured on him. Pouring the ointment on him did not stop anyone from caring for the poor if they wanted to. People should not use the excuse of doing one good to avoid doing another equally important good.
PERSONAL DEVOTIONAL FOR LENT
There is never a time the Lord rejoices at the death of a sinner or a wicked person. Instead, He wills that a sinner should repent and return back to Him. If the Lord should mark our iniquity the Psalmist says, none of us will stand before Him. However, He gives us opportunity to turn away from our evil ways and live. True repentance and reconciliation begins with honest and sincere acknowledgement of the sins we have committed and be truly sorry for them, then we make a resolve to leave our old life behind and become a new person in Christ.
True repentance comes with the desire to love like Jesus and be willing to make sacrifices for the good of the other. If this is not our goal, then, it will be very difficult for us to do what will be acceptable and pleasing to the Lord.
Let Us Pray:
Lord make us like Mary, respond to the unconditional love of God always, above all things.
Tuesday April 4, 2023
WEEKDAY OF HOLY WEEK
Office: Psalter Week 2
Mass prop. Preface of the Passion II
Vestment: Violet
Today’s Rosary: The Sorrowful Mysteries
ENTRANCE ANTIPHON cf. Ps 27: 12
Do not leave me to the will of my foes, O Lord, for false witnesses rise up against me and they breathe out violence.
COLLECT
Almighty ever-living God, grant us so to celebrate the mysteries of the Lord’s Passion that we may merit to receive your pardon. Through our Lord...
-FIRST READING-
“I will give you as a light to the matrons, that my salvation may reach to the end of the earth.” (Second song of the servant of the Lord)
A reading from the Book of Isaiah (Isaiah 49: 1-6)
Listen to me, O Islands, and pay attention, you people’s from afar. The Lord called me from the womb, from the body of my mother he named my name. He made my mouth like a sharp sword, in the shadow of his hand he hid me; he made me a polished arrow, in his quiver he hid me away. And he said to me, “You are my servant, Israel, in whom I will be glorified.” But I said, “I have laboured in vain, I have spent my strength for nothing and vanity; yet surely my right is with the LORD, and my recompense with my God.” And now the Lord says, who formed me from the womb to be his servant, to bring Jacob back to him, and that Israel might be gathered to him, for I am honoured in the eyes of the Lord, and my God has become my strength — he says: “It is too light a thing that you should be my servant to raise up the tribes of Jacob and to restore the preserved of Israel; I will give you as a light to the nations, that my salvation may reach to the end of the earth.”
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Psalm 71:1-2.3-4a.5-6ab.15ab and 17 (R. see 15ab)
R/. My mouth will tell of your salvation, Lord.
In you, O Lord, I take refuge;
let me never be put to shame.
In your justice, rescue me, free me;
incline your ear to me and save me. R/.
Be my rock, my constant refuge,
a mighty stronghold to save me,
for you are my rock, my stronghold.
My God, free me from the hand of the wicked. R/.
R/. My mouth will tell of your salvation, Lord.
It is you, O Lord, who are my hope,
my trust, O Lord, from my youth.
On you I have learned from my birth;
from my mother’s womb, you have been my help. R/.
My mouth will tell of your justice,
and all the day long of your salvation.
O God, you have taught me from my youth,
and I proclaim your wonders still. R/.
VERSE BEFORE THE GOSPEL
Glory and praise to you, O Christ.
Hail, our King, obedient to the Father; you were led to crucifixion like a meek lamb to the slaughter. Glory and praise to you, O Christ.
-GOSPEL-
“One of you will betray me. The cock will not crow, till you have denied me three times. ”
A reading from the holy Gospel according to John (John 13:21 - 33.36-38)
At that time: [Jesus, reclining with his disciples,] was troubled in spirit, and testified, “Truly, truly, I say to you, one of you will betray me.” The disciples looked at one another, uncertain of whom he spoke. One of his disciples, whom Jesus loved, was lying close to the breast of Jesus; so Simon Peter beckoned to him and said, “Tell us who it is of whom he speaks.” So lying thus, close to the breast of Jesus, he said to him, “Lord, who is it?” Jesus answered, “It is he to whom I shall give this morsel when I have dipped it.” So when he had dipped the morsel, he gave it to Judas, the son of Simon Iscariot. Then after the morsel, Satan entered into him. Jesus said to him, “What you are going to do, do quickly.” Now no one at the table knew why he said this to him. Some thought that, because Judas had the money box, Jesus was telling him, “Buy what we need for the feast”; or, that he should give something to the poor. So, after receiving the morsel, he immediately went out; and it was night. When he had gone out, Jesus said, “Now is the Son of man glorified, and in him God is glorified; if God is glorified in him, God will also glorify him in himself, and glorify him at once. Little children, yet a little while I am with you. You will seek me; and as I said to the Jews so now I say to you, ‘Where I am going you cannot come.”’ Simon Peter said to him, “Lord, where are you going?” Jesus answered, “Where I am going you cannot follow me now; but you shall follow afterward.” Peter said to him, “Lord, why can I not follow you now? I will lay down my life for you.” Jesus answered, “Will you lay down your life for me? Truly, truly, I say to you, the cock will not crow, till you have denied me three times.”
The Gospel of the Lord.
TODAY’S REFLECTION
Jesus had twelve companions, carefully chosen, after a long night of prayer (Luke 6:12). For three years, he formed them to become Apostles, men who would continue his mission after him, only for one of them to go and “sell” him to his enemies for thirty pieces of silver. Even when Jesus gave him a chance to withdraw from his evil intent by revealing that he knew what Judas was planning, he did not take it. Another one was a loud mouth. He boasted that he would lay down his life for Jesus. Jesus predicted correctly that he would do not such thing. Indeed, before daybreak the next morning, he would have denied him three times. If the friends of Jesus could do that to him, should it be any surprise if some of our friends of Jesus could do that to him, should it be any surprise if some of our friends do the same to us?
PERSONAL DEVOTIONAL FOR LENT
In one way or the other in life we are like teachers to other people who are looking up to us for inspiration or guide. Jesus was very clear from the very beginning who He is and what he represents. He gave His disciples an example to follow and all who followed it till the end found eternal life. He achieved this because He never compromised His mission. He practiced what He preached. If we are going to be true Disciples of Christ we must lead by example. We must inspire others more when there is a correspondence and wonderful blend between what we say and what we do.
If we eloquently teach people about being humble and we are far from being humble in our attitude and behaviour, our teaching will make less impact than it could have when they see us live it out on a daily basis. Strive more everyday to teach and lead by example and you will be a good teacher and you will win more souls for Christ.
Let Us Pray:
Teach us the way Lord, and remove from us the spirit of being arrogance give us the will to follow you to the end, no matter the circumstances life throws at us.
Wednesday April 5, 2023
WEEKDAY OF HOLY WEEK
Office: Psalter Week 2
Mass prop. Preface of the Passion II
Vestment: Violet
Today’s Rosary: The Glorious Mysteries
TOMORROW ONLY THE MASS OF CHRISM AND THE MASS OF THE LORD’S SUPPER MAY BE CELEBRATED. OTHER CELEBRATION EVEN FUNERAL MASSES ARE FORBIDDEN.
ENTRANCE ANTIPHON Cf. Phil 2: 10.8.11
At the name of Jesus, every knee should bend, of those in heaven and on the earth and under the earth, for the Lord became obedient to death, death on a cross: therefore Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.
COLLECT
O God, who willed your Son to submit for our sake to the yoke of the Cross, so that you might drive from us the power of the enemy, grant us, your servants, to attain the grace of the resurrection. Through our Lord...
-FIRST READING-
“I hid not my face from shame and spitting” (Third song of the servant of the Lord)
A reading from the Book of Isaiah (Isaiah 50:4-9a)
The Lord God has given me the tongue of those who are taught, that I may know how to sustain with a word him that is weary. Morning by morning he wakens, he wakens my ear to hear as those who are taught. The Lord God has opened my ear, and I was not rebellious, I turned not backward. I gave my back to those who struck me, and my cheeks to those who pulled out the beard; I hid not my face from shame and spitting. For the Lord God helps me; therefore I have not been confounded; therefore I have set my face like a flint, and I know that I shall not be put to shame; he who vindicates me is near. Who will contend with me? Let us stand up together. Who is my adversary? Let him come near to me. Behold, the Lord God helps me; who will declare me guilty?
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Ps 69:8-10.21-22.31 and 33-34 (R. 14c, b)
R/. In your great mercy, answer me, O God,
For a time of your favour.
It is for you that I suffer taunts,
that shame has covered my face.
To my own kin I have become an outcast,
a stranger to the children of my mother.
Zeal for your house consumes me,
and taunts against you fall on me. R/.
Taunts have broken my heart;
here I am in anguish.
I looked for solace, but there was none;
for consolers — not one could I find.
For food they gave me gall;
in my thirst they gave me vinegar to drink. R/.
R/. In your great mercy, answer me, O God,
For a time of your favour.
Then I will praise God’s name with a song;
I will glorify him with thanksgiving.
The poor when they see it will be glad,
and God-seeking hearts will revive;
for the Lord listens to the needy,
and does not spurn his own in their chains. R/.
VERSE BEFORE THE GOSPEL
Glory and praise to you, O Christ. Hail, our King: you alone have had mercy on our failings! Glory and praise to you, O Christ.
Or the following:
Hail, our King, obedient to the Father; you were led to crucifixion like a meek lamb to the slaughter.
-GOSPEL-
“The Son of man goes as it is written of him, but woe to that man by whom the Son of man is betrayed!”
A reading from the holy Gospel according to Matthew (Matthew 26: 14-25)
At that time: One of the Twelve, who was called Judas Iscariot, went to the chief priests and said, “What will you give me if I deliver him to you?” And they paid him thirty pieces of silver. And from that moment he sought an opportunity to betray him. Now on the first day of Unleavened Bread the disciples came to Jesus, saying, “Where will you have us prepare for you to eat the Passover?” He said, “Go into the city to such a one, and say to him, ‘The Teacher says, My time is at hand; I will keep the Passover at your house with my disciples.”’ And the disciples did as Jesus had directed them, and they prepared the Passover. When it was evening, he sat at table with the twelve disciples; and as they were eating, he said, “Truly, I say to you, one of you will betray me.” And they were very sorrowful, and began to say to him one after another, “Is it I, Lord?” He answered, “He who has dipped his hand in the dish with me, will betray me. The Son of man goes as it is written of him, but woe to that man by whom the Son of man is betrayed! It would have been better for that man if he had not been born.” Judas, who betrayed him, said, “Is it I, Master?” He said to him, “You have said so.”
The Gospel of the Lord.
TODAY’S REFLECTION
Isaiah’s Servant of God was subjected to suffering and humiliation unfairly. He had done no wrong that deserved such treatment. But he bore it all without bitterness, without retaliation. He was able to do that because God was with him all the time, giving him strength to endure his trials. Jesus was that Servant of God that Isaiah prophesied. One of his greatest pains must have been the knowledge that one of his own companions, one of the twelve whom he had been grooming to become Apostles, was planning to hand him over to his enemies. But, the Servant of God that he was, knew that his Father would see him through his trials and tribulations. God has continued to do that for his faithful and loyal servants.
PERSONAL DEVOTIONAL FOR LENT
We can have ambition in life, but we must make sure that it does not go contrary to what God wants for us. If we desire to occupy the highest position in life, then, we must be ready to get to it through the service we render to others. Jesus got to His position by serving the people and laying down His life for them. Therefore, anytime you desire to be counted as a great man or woman in the sight of God, be ready to lay down your life for others to live.
We will be happy more, when we let God lift us up than when we maneuver, scheme and trample upon others to get to a great position in life. Do not be jealous when God makes use of others to achieve something, rather, be happy with them, support them, then pray and wait for your own opportunity which must surely come.
Let Us Pray:
Lord, help me and give me the grace to make good decision always.
Thursday April 6, 2023
HOLY THURSDAY / MAUNDY THURSDAY AND CHRISM MASS
Office: Proper
Mass prop. Gloria. Preface of Priesthood
Vestment: White
Today’s Rosary: The Luminous Mysteries
CHRISM MASS
The mass of Chrism is properly concelebrated by the Bishop with his clergy. It is a sign of the Unity and communion of the priests with their bishop. If it takes place on Thursday morning, the concelebrants may also concelebrate the Evening Mass of the Lord’s Supper. The Mass of Chrism may also be transferred to another day, but near to Easter.
Lent ends before the Evening Prayer is celebrated. The Easter Triduum begin with the Evening Mass of the Lord’s Supper, ending with the conclusion of Vespers on Easter Sunday. Evening Prayer today is celebrated only by those not participating in the evening mass.
ON THIS DAY ALL MASSES WITHOUT THE PEOPLE IS FORBIDDEN.
ENTRANCE ANTIPHON
Jesus Christ has made us into a kingdom, and priests for his God and Father. To him be glory and power for ever and ever. Amen.
COLLECT
O God, who anointed your Only Begotten Son with the Holy Spirit and made him Christ and Lord, graciously grant that, being made sharers in his consecration, we may bear witness to your Redemption in the world. Through our Lord.
-FIRST READING-
The Lord has anointed me to bring good news to the poor, to give them the oil of gladness.
A reading from the Book of Isaiah (Isaiah 61: 1-3abcd.6a.8b-9)
The Spirit of the Lord God is upon me, because the Lord has anointed me to bring good tidings to the afflicted; he has sent me to bind up the broken-hearted, to proclaim liberty to the captives, and the opening of the prison to those who are bound; to proclaim the year of the Lord’s favour, and the day of vengeance of our God; to comfort all who mourn; to grant to those who mourn in Zion — to give them a garland instead of ashes, the oil of gladness instead of mourning, the mantle of praise instead of a faint spirit. But you shall be called the priests of the Lord, men shall speak of you as the ministers of our God. I will faithfully give them their recompense, and I will make an everlasting covenant with them. Their descendants shall be known among the nations, and their offspring in the midst of the peoples; all who see them shall acknowledge them, that they are a people whom the Lord has blessed.
The Word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Psalm 89:21-22.25 and 27 (R. 2a)
R/. I will sing forever of your mercies, O Lord.
“I have found my servant David,
and with my holy oil anointed him.
My hand shall always be with him,
and my arm shall make him strong.” R/.
“My mercy and my faithfulness shall be with him;
by my name his might shall be exalted.
He will call out to me, ‘You are my father,
my God, the rock of my salvation.”’ R/.
-SECOND READING-
“He made us a kingdom of priests to his God and Father.”
A reading from the Book of Revelation (Rev. 1:5-8)
[Grace to you and peace] from Jesus Christ the faithful witness, the firstborn of the dead, and the ruler of kings on earth. To him who loves us and has freed us from our sins by his blood and made us a kingdom, priests to his God and Father, to him be glory and dominion for ever and ever. Amen. Behold, he is coming with the clouds, and every eye will see him, every one who pierced him; and all tribes of the earth will wail on account of him. Even so. Amen. “I am the Alpha and the Omega,” says the Lord God, who is and who was and who is to come, the Almighty.
The Word of the Lord.
VERSE BEFORE THE GOSPEL Luke 4:18
Glory and praise to you, O Christ.
The Spirit of the Lord is upon me; he has sent me to preach Good News to the poor.
Glory and praise to you, O Christ.
-GOSPEL-
“The spirit of the Lord has been given to me, for he has anointed me.”
A reading from the holy Gospel according to Luke (Luke 4: 16-21)
At that time: Jesus came to Nazareth, where he had been brought up; and he went to the synagogue, as was his custom, on the Sabbath day. And he stood up to read; and there was given to him the book of the prophet Isaiah. He opened the book and found the place where it was written, “The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because he has anointed me to preach good news to the poor. He has sent me to proclaim release to the captives and recovering of sight to the blind, to set at liberty those who are oppressed, to proclaim the acceptable year of the Lord.” And he closed the book, and gave it back to the attendant, and sat down; and the eyes of all in the synagogue were fixed on him. And he began to say to them, “Today this Scripture has been fulfilled in your hearing.”
The Gospel of the Lord.
AFTER THE READING OF THE GOSPEL, the Bishop preaches the Homily in which, taking his starting point from the text of the readings proclaimed in the Liturgy of the Word, he speaks to the people and to his Priests about priestly anointing, urging the Priests to be faithful in their office and calling on them to renew publicly their priestly promises.
RENEWAL OF PRIESTLY PROMISES
After the Homily, the Bishop speaks with the Priests in these or similar words.
Beloved sons, on the anniversary of that day when Christ our Lord conferred his priesthood on his Apostles and on us, are you resolved to renew, in the presence of your Bishop and God’s holy people, the promises you once made?
The Priests, all together, respond: I am.
Are you resolved to be more united with the Lord Jesus and more closely conformed to him, denying yourselves and confirming those promises about sacred duties towards Christ’s Church which, prompted by love of him, you willingly and joyfully pledged on the day of your priestly ordination?
Priests: I am.
Are you resolved to be faithful stewards of the mysteries of God in the Holy Eucharist and the other liturgical rites and to discharge faithfully the sacred office of teaching, following Christ the Head and Shepherd, not seeking any gain, but moved only by zeal for souls?
Priests: I am.
Then, turned towards the people, the Bishop continues:
As for you, dearest sons and daughters, pray for your Priests, that the Lord may pour out his gifts abundantly upon them, and keep them faithful as ministers of Christ, the High Priest, so that they may lead you to him, who is the source of salvation.
People: Christ, hear us. Christ, graciously hear us.
And pray also for me, that I may be faithful to the apostolic office entrusted to me in my lowliness and that in your midst I may be made day by day a living and more perfect image of Christ, the Priest, the Good Shepherd, the Teacher and the Servant of all.
People: Christ, hear us. Christ, graciously hear us.
May the Lord keep us all in his charity and lead all of us, shepherds and flock, to eternal life.
All: Amen.
THE CREED IS NOT SAID.
THURSDAY OF THE LORD’S SUPPER
MASS OF THE LORD’S SUPPER (At the Evening Mass)
The Mass of the Lord’s Supper is celebrated in the evening, at a convenient time, with the full participation of the whole local community and with all the Priests and ministers exercising their office. All Priests may concelebrate even if they have already concelebrated the Chrism Mass on this day, or if they have to celebrate another Mass for the good of the Christian faithful.
Where a pastoral reason requires it, the local Ordinary may permit another Mass to be celebrated in churches and oratories in the evening and, in case of genuine necessity, even in the morning, but only for the faithful who are in no way able to participate in the evening Mass. Care should, nevertheless, be taken that celebrations of this sort do not take place for the advantage of private persons or special small groups, and do not prejudice the evening Mass.
Holy Communion may only be distributed to the faithful during Mass; but it may be brought to the sick at any hour of the day.
The altar may be decorated with flowers with a moderation that accords with the character of this day. The tabernacle should be entirely empty; but a sufficient amount of hosts should be consecrated in this Mass for the Communion of the clergy and the people on this and the following day.
ENTRANCE ANTIPHON Cf. Gal 6:14
We should glory in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, in whom is our salvation, life and resurrection, through whom we are saved and delivered.
COLLECT
O God, who have called us to participate in this most sacred Supper, in which your Only Begotten Son, when about to hand himself over to death, entrusted to the Church a sacrifice new for all eternity, the banquet of his love, grant, we pray, that we may draw from so great a mystery, the fullness of charity and of life. Through our Lord . . .
-FIRST READING-
The law for the Passover meal.
A reading from the Book of Exodus (Exodus 12:1-8. 11-14)
In those days: The LORD said to Moses and Aaron in the land of Egypt, “This month shall be for you the beginning of months; it shall be the first month of the year for you. Tell all the congregation of Israel that on the tenth day of this month they shall take every man a lamb according to their fathers’ houses, a lamb for a household; and if the household is too small for a lamb, then a man and his neighbour next to his house shall take according to the number of persons; according to what each can eat you shall make your count for the lamb. Your lamb shall be without blemish, a male a year old; you shall take it from the sheep or from the goats; and you shall keep it until the fourteenth day of this month, when the whole assembly of the congregation of Israel shall kill their lambs in the evening. Then they shall take some of the blood, and put it on the two doorposts and the lintel of the houses in which they eat them. They shall eat the flesh that night, roasted; with unleavened bread and bitter herbs they shall eat it. “In this manner you shall eat it: your loins girded, your sandals on your feet, and your staff in your hand; and you shall eat it in haste. It is the LORD’s Passover. For I will pass through the land of Egypt that night, and I will strike all the firstborn in the land of Egypt, both man and beast; and on all the gods of Egypt I will execute judgements: I am the Lord. The blood shall be a sign for you, upon the houses where you are; and when I see the blood, I will pass over you, and no plague shall fall upon you to destroy you, when I strike the land of Egypt. “This day shall be for you a memorial day, and you shall keep it as a feast to the LORD; throughout your generations you shall observe it as an ordinance for ever.”
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Psalm116: 12- 13. 15 and 16bc.17- 18 (R. cf. I Cor 10:16)
R/. The cup of blessing is a participation in the blood of Christ.
How can I repay the Lord
for all his goodness to me?
The cup of salvation I will raise;
I will call on the name of the Lord. R/.
How precious in the eyes of the Lord
is the death of his faithful.
Your servant am I, the son of your handmaid;
you have loosened my bonds. R/.
R/. The cup of blessing is a participation in the blood of Christ.
A thanksgiving sacrifice I make;
I will call on the name of the Lord.
My vows to the Lord I will fulfil before all his people. R/.
-SECOND READING-
“As often as you eat this bread and drink the chalice, you proclaim the Lord’s death.”
A reading from the first Letter of Saint Paul to the Corinthians (1 Corinthians 11:23-26)
Brethren: I received from the Lord what I also delivered to you, that the Lord Jesus on the night when he was betrayed took bread, and when he had given thanks, he broke it, and said, “This is my body which is for you. Do this in remembrance of me.” In the same way also the chalice, after supper, saying, “This chalice is the new covenant in my blood. Do this, as often as you drink it, in remembrance of me. For as often as you eat this bread and drink the chalice, you proclaim the Lord’s death until he comes.”
The word of the Lord.
VERSE BEFORE THE GOSPEL John 13:34
Glory and praise to you, O Christ.
A new commandment I give to you, says the Lord, that you love one another even as I have loved you. Glory and praise to you, O Christ.
-GOSPEL-
“He loved them to the end.”
A reading from the holy Gospel according to John (John 13: 1-15)
Before the feast of the Passover, when Jesus knew that his hour had come to depart out of this world to the Father, having loved his own who were in the world, he loved them to the end. And during supper, when the devil had already put it into the heart of Judas Iscariot, Simon’s son, to betray him, Jesus, knowing that the Father had given all things into his hands, and that he had come from God and was going to God, rose from supper, laid aside his garments, and tied a towel around himself. Then he poured water into a basin, and began to wash the disciples’ feet, and to wipe them with the towel that was tied around him. He came to Simon Peter; and Peter said to him, “Lord, do you wash my feet?” Jesus answered him, “What I am doing you do not know now, but afterward you will understand.” Peter said to him, “You shall never wash my feet.” Jesus answered him, “If I do not wash you, you have no part in me.” Simon Peter said to him, “Lord, not my feet only but also my hands and my head!” Jesus said to him, “He who has bathed does not need to wash, except for his feet, but he is clean all over; and you are clean, but not all of you.” For he knew who was to betray him; that was why he said, “You are not all clean.” When he had washed their feet, and taken his garments, and resumed his place, he said to them, “Do you know what I have done to you? You call me Teacher and Lord; and you are right, for so I am. If I then, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also ought to wash one another’s feet. For I have given you an example, that you also should do as I have done to you.”
The Gospel of the Lord.
AFTER THE PROCLAMATION OF THE GOSPEL, the Priest gives a homily in which light is shed on the principal mysteries that are commemorated in this Mass, namely, the institution of the Holy Eucharist and of the priestly Order, and the commandment of the Lord concerning fraternal charity.
THE WASHING OF FEET
After the Homily, where a pastoral reason suggests it, the Washing of Feet follows. The men who have been chosen are led by the ministers to seats prepared in a suitable place. Then the Priest (removing his chasuble if necessary) goes to each one, and, with the help of the ministers, pours water over each one’s feet and then dries them.
PRAYER OF THE FAITHFUL
Celebrant:
At the Last supper, our Lord Jesus Christ instructed us to love and serve one another. Let us pray to him to give us the spirit of humility and the grace to love one another just as he loves us.
FOR THE ORDAINED MINISTERS OF THE CHURCH: that, in their ministry, they may follow the footsteps of Christ who gave himself up in selfless service to his disciples and the entire humanity. Let us pray to the Lord.
FOR CIVIL LEADERS: that, inspired by the humility of Christ who washed the feet of his disciples, they may realize that they are called to serve the people, especially the poor and the less privileged in society. Let us pray to the Lord.
FOR VOCATIONS TO THE PRIESTLY AND RELIGIOUS LIFE: that more young persons all over the world may hear the call of Christ and follow him in the priest hood and religious life. Let us pray to the Lord.
FOR OUR WORSHIPPING COMMUNITY: that we may truly love one another and recognize in the Eucharist the living presence of our Lord, Jesus Christ, who loves us and accompanies us in our daily life. Let us pray to the lord.
For other intentions: (the sick, church projects or other activities).
FOR THE DEAD: especially those of our parish community and family members: that they may find eternal rest with the Lord. Let us pray to the Lord.
We pray in silence for our private intentions.
Celebrant:
God, our loving Father, in this evening’s celebration, your Son left us the Eucharist as a memorial of himself and taught us the demands of charity. Help us to be charitable to one another and grant that our prayers may find favour in your sight. Through Christ our Lord.
R/. Amen.
THE LITURGY OF EUCHARIST
At the beginning of the Liturgy of the Eucharist, there may be a procession of the faithful in which gifts for the poor may be presented with the bread and wine. Meanwhile appropriate chant, is sung.
TODAY’S REFLECTION
The English word 'Maundy' comes from the Latin mandatum which means 'command'. And the reason why Maundy Thursday is called it because the Church celebrates this as the day on which Jesus gives His love command. What Jesus is in effect doing is summarizing His entire life. In bending down to wash the feet of the disciples in John13:1-13, Jesus brings together all that He was, all that He is doing. And so, on this Maundy Thursday, we are called, through this event of the washing of the feet to ask ourselves some serious questions and the first of these is, "Is there a separation between my being and my doing; Do I expect something in return for my love? Is my relationship with people a matter of "You give me, I give you"? Is it a matter of how much I can get out of this person, rather than how much I can give? Even as Jesus washes the feet of Judas and Peter, He is loving, forgiving and accepting them. This is true meaning of forgiveness, it is the true meaning of love, it is the true meaning of Maundy Thursday.
PERSONAL DEVOTIONAL FOR LENT DAY 39
We are in a journey in this life. The journey to follow Jesus is one that will require greater resilience and perseverance to always keep pushing even if the going gets tough. Our aim will be to make it to the finish line and to get the reward. Do not depend on your power alone, but put your whole trust in God. Apart from Him we can do nothing, but with Him we are more than conquerors.
Today, do not look at your weakness, but on Christ who is our strength. No matter what comes your way, stay calm and hold unto Him. By His death and resurrection, He has won us victory. Therefore, rise and become victorious over that which has held you bound for a long time.
Let Us Pray:
Most Holy Trinity, I know how much you love me, I resolve to count on your strength and not my weakness. Help me to stay connected to you so that I will get to my destination, Amen.
Friday April 7, 2023
GOOD FRIDAY (Fasting and Abstinence)
Office: Proper (It is highly appropriate that the Office of Readings and Lauds be celebrated in solemn fashion with the people (IH,210)
Vestment: Red
Today’s Rosary: The Sorrowful Mysteries
Good Friday of the Lord’s Passion is a day of penance for the whole Church, to be marked by fasting and abstinence from meat (cf. p. xxx)
THE CELEBRATION OF THE PASSION OF THE LORD
The celebration of the Lord’s passion takes place about three o’clock, unless pastoral reasons suggest a later hour. The celebration consists of three parts, namely Liturgy of the Word, the Adoration of the Cross, and Holy Communion. Good Friday of the Lord’s Passion is a day of penance for the whole Church, to be marked by fasting and abstinence from meat. No mass is celebrated that day.
FIRST PART: LITURGY OF THE WORD
Then all sit and the first reading, front the Book of the Prophet Isaiah (52a.13-53 :12), is read with its 'Psalm. The second reading, from the Letter to the Hebrews '(4:14- 16; 5:7-9), follows, and then the chart before the gospel. Then the narrative of the Lord’s Passover according to John (18:1- 19:42) is read in the same way as on the preceding Sunday.
-FIRST READING-
“He was wounded for our transgressions.” Fourth song of the Servant of the Lord
A reading from the Book of Isaiah (Isaiah 52: 13-53: 12)
Behold, my servant shall prosper, he shall be exalted and lifted up, and shall be very high. As many were astonished at him his appearance was so marred, beyond human semblance, and his form beyond that of the sons of men — so shall he startle many nations; kings shall shut their mouths because of him; for that which has not been told them they shall see, and that which they have not heard they shall understand. Who has believed what we have heard? And to whom has the arm of the Lord been revealed? For he grew up before him like a young plant, and like a root out of dry ground; he had no form or comeliness that we should look at him, and no beauty that we should desire him. He was despised and rejected by men; a man of sorrows, and acquainted with grief; and as one from whom men hide their faces he was despised, and we esteemed him not. Surely he has borne our grief and carried our sorrows; yet we esteemed him stricken, struck down by God, and afflicted. But he was wounded for our transgressions, he was bruised for our iniquities; upon him was the chastisement that made us whole, and with his stripes we are healed. All we like sheep have gone astray; we have turned every one to his own way; and the Lord has laid on him the iniquity of us all. He was oppressed, and he was afflicted, yet he opened not his mouth; like a lamb that is led to the slaughter, and like a sheep that before its shearers is silent, so he opened not his mouth. By oppression and judgement he was taken away; and as for his generation, who considered that he was cut off out of the land of the living, stricken for the transgression of my people? And they made his grave with the wicked and with a rich man in his death, although he had done no violence, and there was no deceit in his mouth. Yet it was the will of the Lord to bruise him; he has put him to grief; when he makes himself an offering for sin, he shall see his offspring, he shall prolong his days; the will of the Lord shall prosper in his hand; he shall see the fruit of the travail of his soul and be satisfied; by his knowledge shall the righteous one, my servant, make many to be accounted righteous and he shall bear their iniquities. Therefore I will divide him a portion with the great, and he shall divide the spoil with the strong; because he poured out his soul to death, and was numbered with the transgressors; yet he bore the sin of many, and made intercession for the transgressors.
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Psalm31:2 and 6.12-13.15- 16.17 and 25 (R. Lk 23 :46b)
R/. Father, into your hands I commit my spirit!
In you, O Lord, I take refuge.
Let me never be put to shame.
In your justice, set me free.
Into your hands I commend my spirit.
You will redeem me, O Lord, O faithful God. R/.
Because of all my foes
I have become a reproach,
an object of scorn to my neighbours
and of fear to my friends.
Those who see me in the street flee from me.
I am forgotten, like someone dead,
and have become like a broken vessel. R/.
R/. Father, into your hands I commit my spirit!
But as for me, I trust in you, O Lord;
I say, “You are my God.
My lot is in your hands, deliver me
from the hands of my enemies and those who pursue me.” R/.
“Let your face shine on your servant.
Save me in your merciful love.”
Be strong, let your heart take courage,
all who hope in the Lord. R/.
-SECOND READING-
“He learned obedience and became the source of eternal salvation to all who obey him.”
A reading from the Letter to the Hebrews (Hebrews 4: 14-16; 5 :7-9)
Brethren: Since we have a great high priest who has passed through the heavens, Jesus, the Son of God, let us hold fast our confession. For we have not a high priest who is unable to sympathise with our weaknesses, but one who in every respect has been tempted as we are, yet without sinning. Let us then with confidence draw near to the throne of grace, that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need. In the days of his flesh, Jesus offered up prayers and supplications, with loud cries and tears, to him who was able to save him from death, and he was heard for his godly fear. Although he was a Son, he learned obedience through what he suffered; and being made perfect he became the source of eternal salvation to all who obey him.
The word of the Lord.
VERSE BEFORE THE GOSPEL Philippians 2:8b.9
Glory and praise to you, O Christ.
Christ became obedient for us unto death, even death on a cross. Therefore God has highly exalted him and bestowed on him the name which is above every name.
Glory and praise to you, O Christ.
-GOSPEL-
The Passion of our Lord Jesus Christ according to John (John 18:1-19:42)
In the following Passion narrative:
+ = Christ
S = speakers other than Christ
+ - “Whom do you seek?”
N- They answered him,
S- “Jesus of Nazareth.”
N- Jesus said to them,
+- “I am he.”
N Judas, who betrayed him, was standing with them. When he said to them, “I am he,” they drew back and fell to the ground. Again he asked them,
+- “Whom do you seek?”
+ “I told you that I am he; so if you seek me, let these men go.”
+. “Put your sword into its sheath; shall I not drink the chalice which the Father has given me?”
+. “I have spoken openly to the world; I have always taught in synagogues and in the temple, where all Jews come together; I have said nothing secretly. Why do you ask me? Ask those who have heard me, what I said to them; they know what I said.”
+. “If I have spoken wrongly, bear witness to the wrong; but if I have spoken rightly, why do you strike me?”
N Annas then sent him bound to Caiaphas the high priest. Now Simon Peter was standing and warming himself. They said to him,
Then they led Jesus from the house of Caiaphas to the praetorium. It was early. They themselves did not enter the praetorium, so that they might not be defiled, but might eat the Passover. So Pilate went out to them and said;
N Jesus answered,
+ “Do you say this of your own accord, or did others say it to you about me?”
+ “My kingship is not of this world; if my kingship were of this world, my servants would fight, that I might not be handed over to the Jews; but my kingship is not from the world.”
N Pilate said to him,
N Jesus answered,
+ “You say that I am a king. For this I was born, and for this I have come into the world, to bear witness to the truth. Everyone who is of the truth hears my voice.”
N Pilate said to him,
S “I find no crime in him. But you have a custom that I should release one wan for you at the Passover; will you have me release for you the King of the Jews?”
N They cried out again,
S “Not this man, but Barabbas!
Then Pilate took Jesus and scourged him. And the soldiers plaited a crown of thorns, and put it on his head, and clothed him in a purple robe; they came up to him, saying,
N and struck him with their hands. Pilate went out again, and said to them,
S “Behold, I am bringing him out to you, that you may know that I find no crime in him.”
N So Jesus came out, wearing the crown of thorns and the purple robe.
Pilate said to them,
S “Here is the man!”
N When the chief priests and the officers saw him, they cried out,
S “Crucify him, crucify him!”
N Pilate said to them,
S “Take him yourselves and crucify him, for I find no crime in him.”
S “We have a law, and by that law he ought to die, because he has made himself the Son of God.”
N When Pilate heard these words, he was even more afraid; he entered the praetorium again and said to Jesus,
S “Where are you from?”
N But Jesus gave no answer. Pilate therefore said to him,
S “You will not speak to me? Do you not know that I have power to release you, and power to crucify you?”
N Jesus answered him,
+ “You would have no power over mc unless it had been given you from above; therefore he who delivered me to you has the greater sin.”
N Upon this Pilate sought to release him, but the Jews cried out,
S “If you release this man, you are not Caesar’s friend; every one who makes himself a king sets himself against Caesar.”
N When Pilate heard these words, he brought Jesus out and sat down on the judgement seat at a place called The Pavement, and in Hebrew, Gabbatha. Now it was the day of Preparation of the Passover; it was about the sixth hour. He said to the Jews,
S “Here is your King!”
N They cried out,
S “Away with him, away with him, crucify him!”
N Pilate said to them,
S “Shall I crucify your King?”
S “Do not write, ‘The King of the Jews,’ but, ‘This man said, I am King of the Jews.”’
S “Let us not tear it, but cast lots for it to see whose it shall be.” This was to fulfil the Scripture, “They parted my garments among them, and for my clothing they cast lots.” So the soldiers did this. But standing by the cross of Jesus were his mother, and his mother’s sister, Mary the wife of Clopas, and Mary Magdalene. When Jesus saw his mother, and the disciple whom he loved standing near, he said to his mother,
+. “Woman, behold, your son!”
N Then he said to the disciple,
+. “Behold, your mother!”
+. “I thirst.”
N A bowl full of vinegar stood there; so they put a sponge full of the vinegar on hyssop and held it to his mouth. When Jesus had received the vinegar, he said,
+. “It is finished;”
ALL KNEEL AND PAUSE FOR A MOMENT IN PRAYER
Since it was the day of Preparation, in order to prevent the bodies from remaining on the cross on the Sabbath (for that Sabbath was a high da), the Jew asked Pilate that their legs might be broken, and that they might be taken away. So the soldiers came and broke the legs of the first, and of the other who had been crucified with him; but when they came to Jesus and saw that he was already dead, they did not break his legs. But one of the soldiers pierced his side with a spear, and at once there came out blood and water. He who saw it has borne witness his testimony is true, and he knows that he tells the truth that you also may believe. For these things took place that the Scripture might be fulfilled, ‘’Not a bone of him shall be broken.’ And again another Scripture says, ‘They shall look on him whom they have pierced.’ After this Joseph of Arimathea, who was a disciple of Jesus, but secretly, for fear of the Jews, asked Pilate that he might take away the body of Jesus, and Pilate gave him leave. So he came and took away his body. Nicodemus also, who had at first come to him by night, came bringing a mixture of myrrh and aloes, about a hundred pounds’ weight. They took the body of Jesus, and bound it in linen cloths with the spices, as is the burial custom of the Jews. Now in the place where he was crucified there was a garden, and in the garden a new tomb where no one had ever been laid. So because of the Jewish day of Preparation, as the tomb was close at hand, they laid Jesus there.
THE SOLEMN INTERCESSION
The Liturgy of the Word concludes with the solemn intercessions, which take place in this way; Deacon or lay minister, stands at the ambo, and sings or say the invitation in which the intention is expressed. All pray in silence for a while, afterwards the priest, standing at the chair or at the altar, sings or say the prayer. The faithful may remain either kneeling or standing.
Before the Priest’s prayer, in accord with tradition, it is permissible to use the invitations, LET US KNEEL – LET US STAND, with all kneeling for silent prayer.
FOR HOLY CHURCH
Let us pray, dearly beloved, for the holy Church of God, that our God and Lord be pleased to give her peace, to guard her and to unite her throughout the whole world and grant that, leading our life in tranquility and quiet, we may glorify God the Father almighty.
Prayer in silence. Then the Priest says:
Almighty ever-living God, who in Christ revealed your glory to all the nations, watch over the works of your mercy, that your Church, spread throughout all the world, may persevere with steadfast faith in confessing your name. Through Christ our Lord.
FOR THE POPE
Let us pray also for our most Holy Father Pope N., that our God and Lord, who chose him for the Order of Bishops, may keep him safe and unharmed for the Lord’s holy Church, to govern the holy People of God.
Prayer in silence. Then the Priest says:
Almighty ever-living God, by whose decree all things are founded, look with favour on our prayers and in your kindness protect the Pope chosen for us, that under him, the Christian people, governed by you their maker, may grow in merit by reason of their faith. Through Christ our Lord.
FOR ALL ORDERS AND DEGREES OF THE FAITHFUL
Let us pray also for our Bishop N., for all Bishops, Priests, and Deacons of the Church and for the whole of the faithful people. Prayer in silence. Then the Priest says:
Almighty ever-living God, by whose Spirit the whole body of the
Church is sanctified and governed, hear our humble prayer for your ministers, that by the gift of your grace, all may serve you faithfully. Through Christ our Lord.
FOR CATECHUMENS
Let us pray also for (our) catechumens, that our God and Lord may open wide the ears of their inmost hearts and unlock the gates of his mercy, that, having received forgiveness of all their sins through the waters of rebirth, they, too, may be one with Christ Jesus our Lord.
Prayer in silence. Then the Priest says:
Almighty ever-living God, who make your Church ever fruitful with new offspring, increase the faith and understanding of (our) catechumens, that, reborn in the font of Baptism, they may be added to the number of your adopted children. Through Christ our Lord.
FOR THE UNITY OF CHRISTIANS
Let us pray also for all our brothers and sisters who believe in Christ, that our God and Lord may be pleased, as they live the truth, to gather them together and keep them in his one Church.
Prayer in silence. Then the Priest says
Almighty ever-living God, who gather what is scattered and keep together what you have gathered, look kindly on the flock of your Son, that those whom one Baptism has consecrated may be joined together by integrity of faith and united in the bond of charity. Through Christ our Lord.
FOR THE JEWISH PEOPLE
Let us pray also for the Jewish people, to whom the Lord our God spoke first, that he may grant them to advance in love of his name and in faithfulness to his covenant.
Prayer in silence. Then the Priest says:
Almighty ever-living God, who bestowed your promises on Abraham and his descendants, hear graciously the prayers of your Church, that the people you first made your own may attain the fullness of redemption. Through Christ our Lord.
FOR THOSE WHO DO NOT BELIEVE IN CHRIST
Let us pray also for those who do not believe in Christ, that, enlightened by the Holy Spirit, they, too, may enter on the way of salvation.
Prayer in silence. Then the Priest says:
Almighty ever-living God, grant to those who do not confess Christ, that, by walking before you with a sincere heart, they may find the truth and that we ourselves, being constant in mutual love and striving to understand more fully the mystery of your life, may be made more perfect witnesses to your love in the world. Through Christ our Lord.
FOR THOSE WHO DO NOT BELIEVE IN GOD
Let us pray also for those who do not acknowledge God, that, following what is right in sincerity of heart, they may find the way to God himself.
Prayer in silence. Then the Priest says:
Almighty ever-living God, who created all people to seek you always by desiring you and, by finding you, come to rest, grant, we pray, that, despite every harmful obstacle, all may recognise the signs of your fatherly love and the witness of the good works done by those who believe in you, and so in gladness confess you, the one true God and Father of our human race. Through Christ our Lord.
FOR THOSE IN PUBLIC OFFICE
Let us pray also for those in public office, that our God and Lord may direct their minds and hearts according to his will for the true peace and freedom of all.
Prayer in silence. Then the Priest says:
Almighty ever-living God, in whose hand lies every human heart and the rights of peoples, look with favour, we pray, on those who govern with authority over us, that throughout the whole world, the prosperity of peoples, the assurance of peace, and freedom of religion may through your gift be made secure.
Through Christ our Lord.
FOR THOSE IN TRIBULATION
Let us pray, dearly beloved, to God the Father almighty, that he may cleanse the world of all errors, banish disease, drive out hunger, unlock prisons, loosen fetters, granting to travelers safety, to pilgrims return, health to the sick, and salvation to the dying.
Prayer in silence. Then the Priest says:
Almighty ever-living God, comfort of mourners, strength of all who toil, may the prayers of those who cry out in any tribulation come before you, that all may rejoice, because in their hour of need your mercy was at hand. Through Christ our Lord.
SECOND PART
The Adoration of the Holy Cross
Then, accompanied by two ministers with lighted candles, the Priest or the Deacon carries the Cross to the entrance of the sanctuary or to another suitable place and there puts it down or hands it over to the ministers to hold. Candles are placed on the right and left sides of the Cross.
For the Adoration of the Cross, first the Priest Celebrant alone approaches, with the chasuble and his shoes removed, if appropriate. Then the clergy, the lay ministers, and the faithful approach, moving as if in procession, and showing reverence to the Cross by a simple genuflection or by some other sign appropriate to the usage of the region, for example, by kissing the Cross.
Only one Cross should be offered for adoration. If, because of the large number of people, it is not possible for all to approach individually, the Priest, after some of the clergy and faithful have adored, takes the Cross and, standing in the middle before the altar, invites the people in a few words to adore the Holy Cross and afterwards holds the Cross elevated higher for a brief time, for the faithful to adore it in silence.
THIRD PART
HOLY COMMUNION
A cloth is spread on the altar, and a corporal and the missal put in place. Meanwhile the Deacon or, if there is no Deacon, the Priest himself, putting on a humeral veil, brings the Blessed Sacrament back from the place of repose to the altar by a shorter route, while all stand in silence. Two ministers with lighted candles accompany the Blessed Sacrament and place their candlesticks around or upon the altar. When the Deacon, if a Deacon is present, has placed the Blessed Sacrament upon the altar and uncovered the ciborium, the Priest goes to the altar, genuflects and continues…….
PERSONAL DEVOTIONAL
Give thanks to God always from the depth of your heart for He is the source of your life and blessings. We have journeyed for forty days together and in gratitude to God we must rise with Jesus at Easter. Be grateful to God for sending His only begotten Son to come and die for you. Be grateful and show appreciation when people show kindness or do good to you no matter how little or insignificant the act may be. Let gratitude be part of your life on a daily basis and you will definitely be a happy soul.
Today, make sure that you resolve to put the fruits of this journey into use and show appreciation to God in words and action for the gift of this season.
SATURDAY, APRIL 8, 2023
HOLY SATURDAY
Office: Prop. Evening Prayers/ Vespers:
Ant. In place of responsories.
Night Prayers IV (To be celebrated only by those not participating in the Easter Vigil)
Mass of the Easter Vigil: Proper; 4 parts
Lucermarium or rite of Light, Liturgies of the Word, Baptism and Eucharist
Preface of Easter 1
Vestment: White
Today’s Rosary: The Joyful Mysteries
HOLY SATURDAY
On Holy Saturday, the Church waits at the Lord’s tomb in prayer and fasting, meditating on his Passion and Death and o his Descent into Hell, and awaiting his Resurrection. The Church abstains from the sacrifice of the Mass, with the sacred table left bare, until after the solemn Vigil, that is, the anticipation by night of the Resurrection, when the time comes for paschal joy, the abundance of which overflows to occupy fifty days.
Holy Communion may be given on this day as Viaticum
LITURGICAL INTRODUCTION
Easter Time opens with the solemn celebration of the Easter Vigil and ends on Pentecost Sunday. This time, which lasts fifty days, leads the faithful to a deeper understanding and experience of the presence of the Risen Lord in their midst. The Resurrection of the Lord is the foundation of our Christian faith and that is why the Church offers us the opportunity to reflect and pray about it for such a long time.
PART ONE
THE SOLEMN BLESSING OF THE VIGIL
The Blessing of the Fire and Preparation of the candle
THE EASTER PROCLAMATION (Exsultet)
Shorter Form of the Easter Proclamation
Exult, let them exult, the hosts of heaven,
exult, let Angel ministers of God exult,
let the trumpet of salvation
sound aloud our mighty King’s triumph!
Be glad, let earth be glad, as glory floods her, ablaze with light from her eternal King,
let all comers of the earth be glad, knowing an end to gloom and darkness. Rejoice, let Mother Church also rejoice, arrayed with the lighting of his glory, let this holy building shake with joy,
filled with the mighty voices of the peoples.
(V. The Lord be with you.
It is truly right and just,
with ardent love of mind and heart and with devoted service of our voice,
to acclaim our God invisible, the almighty Father,
and Jesus Christ, our Lord, his Son, his Only Begotten.
Who for our sake paid Adam’s debt to the eternal Father, and, pouring out his own dear Blood,
wiped clean the record of our ancient sinfulness. These then are the feasts of Passover,
in which is slain the Lamb, the one true Lamb,
whose Blood anoints the doorposts of believers. This is the night,
when once you led our forebears, Israel’s children,
from slavery in Egypt
and made them pass dry-shod through the Red Sea.
This is the night that with a pillar of fire banished the darkness of sin.
This is the night
in which even now, throughout the world,
sets Christian believers apart from worldly vices and from the gloom of sin, leading them to grace and joining them to his holy ones.
This is the night,
when Christ broke the prison-bars of death,
and rose victorious from the underworld. O wonder of your humble care for us!
O love, O charity beyond all telling,
to ransom a slave you gave away your Son! O truly necessary sin of Adam,
destroyed completely by the Death of Christ!
O happy fault
that earned so great, so glorious a Redeemer!
The sanctifying power of this night
dispels wickedness, washes faults away,
restores innocence to the fallen, and joy to mourners. O truly blessed night,
when things of heaven are wedded to those of earth
and divine to the human.
On this, your night of grace, O holy Father, accept this candle, a solemn offering,
the work of bees and of your servants’ hands, an evening sacrifice of praise,
this gift from your most holy Church.
Therefore, O Lord, we pray you that this candle, hallowed to the honour of your name,
may persevere undimmed,
to overcome the darkness of this night.
Receive it as a pleasing fragrance,
and let it mingle with the lights of heaven.
May this flame be found still burning by the Morning Star: the one Morning Star who never sets, Christ your Son, who, coming back from death’s domain,
has shed his peaceful light on humanity, and lives and reigns for ever and ever.
SECOND PART:
THE LITURGY OF THE WORD
In this Vigil, the mother of all Vigils, nine readings are provided, namely seven from the Old Testament and two from the New (the Epistle and Gospel), all of which should be read whenever this can be done, so that the character of the Vigil, which demands an extended period of time, may be preserved. Nevertheless, where more serious pastoral circumstances demand it, the number of readings from the Old Testament may be reduced.
-FIRST READING-
“God saw everything that he had made, and behold, it was very good.”
A reading from the Book of Genesis (GENESIS 1:1-2:2)
*in the beginning God created the heavens and the earth.* the earth was without form and void, and darkness was upon the face of the deep; and the Spirit of God was moving over the face of the waters. And God said, “let there be light”; and there was light. And God saw that the light was good; and God separated the light from the darkness. God called the light Day, and the darkness he called Night. And there was evening and there was morning, one day. And God said, “let there be a firmament in the midst of the waters, and let it separate the waters from the waters.” And God made the firmament and separated the waters which were under the firmament from the waters which were above the firmament. And it was so. And God called the firmament Heaven. And there was evening and there was morning, a second day. And God said, “let the waters under the heavens be gathered together into one place, and let the dry land appear.” And it was so. God called the dry land Earth, and the waters that were gathered together he called Seas. And God saw that it was good. And God said, “let the earth put forth vegetation, plants yielding seed, and fruit trees bearing fruit in which is their seed, each according to its kind, upon the earth.” And it was so. The earth brought forth vegetation, plants yielding seed according to their own kinds, and trees bearing fruit in which is their seed, each according to its kind. And God saw that it was good. And there was evening and there was morning, a third day. And God said, “Let there be lights in the firmament of the heavens to separate the day from the night; and let them be for signs and for seasons and for days and years, and let them be lights in the firmament of the heavens to give light upon the earth.” And it was so. And God made the two great lights, the greater light to rule the day, and the lesser light to rule the night; he made the stars also. And God set them in the firmament of the heavens to give light upon the earth, to rule over the day and over the night, and to separate the light from the darkness. And God saw that it was good. And there was evening and there was morning, a fourth day. And God said, “Let the waters bring forth swarms of living creatures, and let birds fly above the earth across the firmament of the heavens.” So God created the great sea monsters and every living creature that moves, with which the waters swarm, according to their kinds, and every winged bird according to its kind. And God saw that it was good. And God blessed them, saying, “Be fruitful and multiply and fill the waters in the seas, and let birds multiply on the earth.” And there was evening and there was morning, a fifth day. And God said, “Let the earth bring forth living creatures according to their kinds: cattle and creeping things and beasts of the earth according to their kinds.” And it was so. And God made the beasts of the earth according to their kinds and the cattle according to their kinds, and everything that creeps upon the ground according to its kind. And God saw that it was good. Then God said, “Let us make man in our image, after our likeness; and let them have dominion over the fish of the sea, and over the birds of the air, and over the cattle, and over all the earth, and over every creeping thing that creeps upon the earth.” So God created man in his own image, in the image of God he created him; male and female he created them. And God blessed them, and God said to them, “Be fruitful and multiply, and fill the earth and subdue it; and have dominion over the fish of the sea and over the birds of the air and over every living thing that moves upon the earth.” And God said, “Behold, I have given you every plant yielding seed which is upon the face of all the earth, and every tree with seed in its fruit; you shall have them for food. And to every beast of the earth, and to every bird of the air, and to everything that creeps on the earth, everything that has the breath of life, I have given every green plant for food.” And it was so. And God saw everything that he had made, and behold, it was very good.* And there was evening and there was morning, a sixth day. Thus the heavens and the earth were finished, and all the host of them. And on the seventh day God finished his work which he had done, and he rested on the seventh day from all his work which he had done.
The word of the Lord.*
Shorter form: Genesis 1: 1.26-31a. Read between *.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Psalm 104:1-2a.5-6.10 and12.13- 14.24 and 35c (R. cf. 30)
R/. Lord, send forth your Spirit, and renew the face of the earth.
Bless the Lord, O my soul!
O Lord my God, how great you are,
clothed in majesty and honour,
wrapped in light as with a robe! R/.
You set the earth on its foundation,
immovable from age to age.
You wrapped it with the depths like a cloak;
the waters stood higher than the mountains. R/.
R/. Lord, send forth your Spirit, and renew the face of the earth.
You make springs gush forth in the valleys;
they flow in between the hills.
There the birds of heaven build their nests;
from the branches they sing their song. R/.
From your dwelling you water the hills;
by your works the earth has its fill.
You make the grass grow for the cattle
and plants to serve mankind’s need.
That he may bring forth bread from the earth. R/.
How many are your works, O Lord!
In wisdom you have made them all.
The earth is full of your creatures.
Bless the Lord, O my soul. R/.
or the following:
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Ps 33 :4-5.6-7.12-13.20 and 22 (R. 5b)
R/. His merciful love fills the earth.
The word of the Lord is faithful,
and all his works to be trusted.
The Lord loves justice and right,
and his merciful love fills the earth. R/.
By the word of the Lord the heavens were made,
by the breath of his mouth all their host.
As in a flask, he collects the waves of the ocean;
he stores up the depths of the sea. R/.
R/. His merciful love fills the earth.
Blessed the nation whose God is the Lord,
the people he has chosen as his heritage,
From the heavens the Lord looks forth;
he sees all the children of men. R/.
Our soul is waiting for the Lord.
He is our help and our shield.
May your merciful love be upon us,
as we hope in you, O Lord. R/.
Priest: Let us pray.
Almighty ever-living God, who are wonderful in the ordering of all your works, may those you have redeemed understand that there exists nothing more marvellous than the world’s creation in the beginning except that, at the end of the ages, Christ our Passover has been sacrificed. Who lives and reigns for ever and ever.
Or: On the creation of man:
O God, who wonderfully created human nature and still more wonderfully redeemed it, grant us, we pray, to set our minds against the enticements of sin, that we may merit to attain eternal joys. Through Christ our Lord.
-SECOND READING-
”The sacrifice of Abraham our father in faith. ”
A reading from the Book of Genesis (Gen 22:1-18)
* In those days: God tested Abraham, and said to him, “Abraham!” And he said, “Here am I.” He said, “Take your son, your only-begotten son Isaac, whom you love, and go to the land of Moriah, and offer him there as a burnt offering upon one of the mountains of which I shall tell you.”* Abraham rose early in the morning, saddled his donkey, and took two of his young men with him, and his son Isaac; and he cut the wood for the burnt offering, and arose and went to the place of which God had told him. On the third day Abraham lifted up his eyes and saw the place afar off. Then Abraham said to his young men, “Stay here with the donkey; I and the lad will go yonder and worship, and come again to you.” And Abraham took the wood of the burnt offering, and laid it on Isaac his son; and he took in his hand the fire and the knife. So they went both of them together. And Isaac said to his father Abraham, “My father!” And he said, “Here am I, my son.” He said, “Behold, the fire and the wood; but where is the lamb for a burnt offering?” Abraham said, “God will provide himself the lamb for a burnt offering, my son.” So they went both of them together.
When they came to the place of which God had told him, Abraham built an altar there, and laid the wood in order, and bound Isaac his son, and laid him on the altar, upon the wood. Then Abraham put forth his hand, and took the knife to slay his son. But the angel of the Lord called to him from heaven, and said, “Abraham, Abraham!” And he said, “Here am I.” He said, “Do not lay your hand on the lad or do anything to him; for now, I know that you fear God, seeing you have not withheld your son, your only-begotten son, from me.” And Abraham lifted up his eyes and looked, and behold, behind him was a ram, caught in a thicket by his horns; and Abraham went and took the ram, and offered it up as a burnt offering instead of his son.*
So Abraham called the name of that place the Lord will provide; as it is said to this day, “On the mount of the Lord it shall be provided.”
And the angel of the Lord called to Abraham a second time from heaven, and said, “By myself I have sworn, says the Lord, because you have done this, and have not withheld your son, your only-begotten son, I will indeed bless you, and I will multiply your descendants as the stars of heaven and as the sand which is on the seashore. And your descendants shall possess the gate of their enemies, and by your descendants shall all the nations of the earth bless themselves, because you have obeyed my voice.”
The word of the Lord. *
Shorter form: Genesis 22:1-2.9a.10-13.15- 18. Read between *
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Psalm16:5 and 8.9-10.11 (R. 1)
R/. Preserve me, O God, for in you I take refuge.
O Lord, it is you who are my portion and cup;
you yourself who secure my lot.
I keep the Lord before me always;
with him at my right hand, I shall not be moved. R/.
And so, my heart rejoices, my soul is glad;
even my flesh shall rest in hope.
For you will not abandon my soul to hell,
nor let your holy one see corruption. R/.
R/. Preserve me, O God, for in you I take refuge.
You will show me the path of life,
the fullness of joy in your presence,
at your right hand, bliss forever. R/.
Priest: Let us pray.
O God, supreme Father of the faithful, who increase the children of your promise by pouring out the grace of adoption throughout the whole world and who through the paschal mystery make your servant Abraham father of nations, as once you swore, grant, we pray, that your peoples may enter worthily into the grace to which you call them. Through Christ our Lord.
THIRD READING
“The sons of Israel walked on dry ground through the sea.”
A reading from the Book of Exodus (Exodus14:15-15:1)
In those days: The Lord said to Moses, “Why do you cry to me? Tell the sons of Israel to go forward. Lift up your rod, and stretch out your hand over the sea and divide it, that the sons of Israel may go on dry ground through the sea. And I will harden the hearts of the Egyptians so that they shall go in after them, and I will get glory over Pharaoh and all his host, his chariots, and his horsemen. And the Egyptians shall know that I am the Lord, when I have gotten glory over Pharaoh, his chariots, and his horsemen.” Then the angel of God who went before the host of Israel moved and went behind them; and the pillar of cloud moved from before them and stood behind them, coming between the host of Egypt and the host of Israel. And there was the cloud and the darkness; and the night passed without one coming near the other all night. Then Moses stretched out his hand over the sea; and the Lord drove the sea back by a strong east wind all night, and made the sea dry land, and the waters were divided. And the sons of Israel went into the midst of the sea on dry ground, the waters being a wall to them on their right hand and on their left. The Egyptians pursued, and went in after them into the midst of the sea, all Pharaoh’s horses, his chariots, and his horsemen. And in the morning watch the Lord in the pillar of fire and of cloud looked down upon the host of the Egyptians, and discomfited the host of the Egyptians, clogging their chariot wheels so that they drove heavily; and the Egyptians said, “Let us flee from before Israel; for the Lord fights for them against the Egyptians.” Then the Lord said to Moses, “Stretch out your hand over the sea that the water may come back upon the Egyptians, upon their chariots, and upon their horsemen.” So Moses stretched forth his hand over the sea, and the sea returned to its usual flow when the morning appeared; and the Egyptians fled into it, and the Lord routed the Egyptians in the midst of the sea. The waters returned and covered the chariots and the horsemen and all the host of Pharaoh that had followed them into the sea; not so much as one of them remained. But the sons of Israel walked on dry ground through the sea, the waters being a wall to them on their right hand and on their left. Thus the Lord saved Israel that day from the hand of the Egyptians; and Israel saw the Egyptians dead upon the seashore. And Israel saw the great work which the Lord did against the Egyptians, and the people feared the Lord; and they believed in the Lord and in his servant Moses. Then Moses and the sons of Israel sang this song to the Lord, saying, “I will sing to the Lord, for he has triumphed gloriously; the horse and his rider he has thrown into the sea.”
The word of the Lord
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Exodus 15: 1b-2.3-4.5-6. 17- 18 (R. 1b)
R/. I will sing to the Lord, for he has triumphed gloriously.
I will sing to the Lord, for he has triumphed gloriously;
the horse and his rider he has thrown into the sea.
The Lord is my strength and my song,
and he has become my salvation;
this is my God, and I will praise him,
my father’s God, and I will exalt him. R/.
The LORD is a man of war; the Lord is his name.
Pharaoh’s chariots and his host he cast into the sea;
and his picked officers are sunk in the Red Sea. R/.
R/. I will sing to the Lord, for he has triumphed gloriously.
The floods cover them;
they went down into the depths like a stone
Your right hand, O Lord, glorious in power,
your right hand, O Lord, shatters the enemy. R/.
You will bring your people in,
and plant them on your own mountain,
the place, O Lord, which you have made for your abode,
the sanctuary, O Lord, which your hands have established.
The Lord will reign for ever and ever. R/.
Priest: Let us pray.
O God, whose ancient wonders remain undimmed in splendour even in our day, for what you once bestowed on a single people, freeing them from Pharaoh’s persecution by the power of your right hand, now you bring about as the salvation of the nations through the waters of rebirth, grant, we pray, that the whole world may become children of Abraham and inherit the dignity of Israel’s birthright. Through Christ our Lord.
R/. Amen.
Or:
O God, who by the light of the New Testament have unlocked the meaning of wonders worked in former times, so that the Red Sea prefigures the sacred font and the nation delivered from slavery foreshadows the Christian people, grant, we pray, that all nations, obtaining the privilege of Israel by merit of faith, may be reborn by partaking of your Spirit. Through Christ our Lord.
R/. Amen.
FOURTH READING
“With everlasting mercy I will have compassion on you, says the Lord, your redeemer.”
A reading from the Book of Isaiah (Isaiah 54:5- 14)
Your Maker is your husband, the Lord of hosts is his name; and the Holy One of Israel is your Redeemer, the God of the whole earth he is called. For the Lord has called you like a wife forsaken and grieved in spirit, like a wife of youth when she is cast off, says your God. For a brief moment I forsook you, but with great compassion I will gather you. In overflowing wrath for a moment I hid my face from you, but with everlasting mercy I will have compassion on you, says the Lord, your Redeemer. “For this is like the days of Noah to me: I swore that the waters of Noah should no more go over the earth, so I have sworn that I will not be angry with you and will not rebuke you. For the mountains may depart and the hills be removed, but my mercy shall not depart from you, and my covenant of peace shall not be removed, says the Lord, who has compassion on you. “O afflicted one, storm-tossed, and not comforted, behold, I will set your stones in antimony, and lay your foundations with sapphires. I will make your pinnacles of agate, your gates of carbuncles, and all your wall of precious stones. All your sons shall be taught by the Lord, and great shall be the prosperity of your sons. In righteousness you shall be established; you shall be far from oppression, for you shall not fear; and from terror, for it shall not come near you.
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Ps 30:2 and 4.5-6.11-12a and 13b (R. 2a)
R/. I will extol you, O Lord, for you have raised me up.
I will extol you, Lord, for you have raised me up,
and have not let my enemies rejoice over me.
O Lord, you have lifted up my soul from the grave,
restored me to life from those who sink into the pit. R/.
Sing psalms to the Lord, you faithful ones;
give thanks to his holy name.
His anger lasts a moment; his favour all through life.
At night there are tears, but at dawn comes joy. R/.
R/. I will extol you, O Lord, for you have raised me up.
Hear, O Lord, and have mercy on me;
be my helper, O Lord.
You have changed my mourning into dancing.
O Lord my God, I will thank you forever. R/.
Priest: Let us pray.
Almighty ever living God, surpass, for the honour of your name, what you pledged to the Patriarchs by reason of their faith, and through sacred adoption increase the children of your promise, so that what the Saints of old never doubted would come to pass your Church may now see in great part fulfilled. Through Christ our Lord.
R/. Amen.
FIFTH READING
“Come to me that your soul may live. I will make with you an everlasting covenant.”
A reading from the Book of Isaiah (Isaiah 55 :1-11)
Thus says the Lord: “Ho, every one who thirsts, come to the waters; and he who has no money, come, buy and eat! Come, buy wine and milk without money and without price. Why do you spend your money for that which is not bread, and your labour for that which does not satisfy? Listen diligently to me, and eat what is good, and delight yourselves in rich food. Incline your ear, and come to me; hear, that your soul may live; and I will make with you an everlasting covenant, my steadfast, merciful love for David. Behold, I made him a witness to the peoples, a leader and commander for the peoples. Behold, you shall call nations that you know not, and nations that knew you not shall run to you, because of the Lord your God, and of the Holy One of Israel, for he has glorified you. “Seek the Lord while he may be found, call upon him while he is near; let the wicked forsake his way, and the unrighteous man his thoughts; let him return to the Lord, that he may have mercy on him, and to our God, for he will abundantly pardon. For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, says the Lord. For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts. “For as the rain and the snow come down from heaven, and do not return there but water the earth, making it bring forth and sprout, giving seed to the sower and bread to the eater, so shall my word be that goes forth from my mouth; it shall not return to me empty, but it shall accomplish that which I intend, and prosper in the thing for which I sent it.
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Isaiah 12:2-3.4bcde.5-6 (R. 3)
R/. With joy you will draw water from the wells of salvation.
“Behold, God is my salvation;
I will trust, and will not be afraid;
for the Lord God is my strength and my song,
and he has become my salvation.”
With joy you will draw water from the wells of salvation. R/.
“Give thanks to the Lord,
call upon his name;
make known his deeds among the nations,
proclaim that his name is exalted.” R/.
R/. With joy you will draw water from the wells of salvation.
“Sing praises to the Lord, for he has done gloriously;
let this be known in all the earth.
Shout, and sing for joy, O inhabitant of Zion,
for great in your midst is the Holy One of Israel.” R/.
Priest: Let us pray.
Almighty ever-living God, sole hope of the world, who by the preaching of your Prophets unveiled the mysteries of this present age, graciously increase the longing of your people, for only at the prompting of your grace do the faithful progress in any kind of virtue. Through Christ our Lord.
R/. Amen.
SIXTH READING
“Walk towards the shining light of the Lord.”
A reading from the Book of Baruch (Baruch 3:9-15.32-4:4)
Hear the commandments of life, O Israel; give ear, and learn wisdom! Why is it, O Israel, why is it that you are in the land of your enemies, that you are growing old in a foreign country, that you are defiled with the dead, that you are counted among those in Hades? You have forsaken the fountain of wisdom. If you had walked in the way of God, you would be dwelling in peace for ever. Learn where there is wisdom, where there is strength, where there is understanding, that you may at the same time discern where there is length of days, and life, where there is light for the eyes, and peace. Who has found her place? And who has entered her storehouses? But he who knows all things knows her, he found her by his understanding. He who prepared the earth for all time filled it with four-footed creatures; he who sends forth the light, and it goes, called it, and it obeyed him in fear; the stars shone in their watches, and were glad; he called them, and they said, “Here we are!” They shone with gladness for him who made them. This is our God; no other can be compared to him! He found the whole way to knowledge, and gave her to Jacob his servant and to Israel whom he loved. Afterwards she appeared upon earth and lived among men. She is the book of the commandments of God, and the law that endures for ever. All who hold her fast will live, and those who forsake her will die. Turn, O Jacob, and take her; walk towards the shining of her light. Do not give your glory to another, or your advantages to an alien people. Happy are we, O Israel, for we know what is pleasing to God.
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Psalm 19:8.9. 10.11 (R. John 5:68c)
R/. Lord, you have the words of eternal life.
The law of the Lord is perfect;
It revives the soul.
The decrees of the Lord are steadfast;
They give wisdom to the simple. R/.
The precepts of the Lord are right;
They gladden the heart.
The command of the Lord is clear;
it gives light to the eyes. R/.
R/. With joy you will draw water from the wells of salvation.
The fear of the Lord is pure,
Abiding forever.
The judgements of the Lord are true;
They are, all of them, just. R/.
They are more to be desired than gold,
than quantities of gold.
And sweeter are they than honey,
Than honey flowing from the comb. R/.
Priest: Let us pray.
O God, who constantly increase your Church by your call to the nations, grant graciously to those you wash clean in the waters of Baptism, the assurance of your unfailing protection. Through Christ our Lord.
R/. Amen.
SEVENTH READING
“I shall sprinkle clean water upon you, a new heart I will give you.”
A reading from the Book of the Prophet Ezekiel (Ezekiel 36: 16-17a.1 8-25)
The word of the Lord came to me: “Son of man, when the house of Israel dwelt in their own land, they defiled it by their ways and their doings. So I poured out my wrath upon them for the blood which they had shed in the land, for the idols with which they had defiled it. I scattered them among the nations, and they were dispersed through the countries; in accordance with their conduct and their deeds I judged them. But when they came to the nations, wherever they came, they profaned my holy name, in that men said of them, ‘These are the people of the Lord, and yet they had to go out of his land.’ But I had concern for my holy name, which the house of Israel caused to be profaned among the nations to which they came. “Therefore say to the house of Israel, Thus says the Lord God: It is not for your sake, O house of Israel, that I am about to act, but for the sake of my holy name, which you have profaned among the nations to which you came. And I will vindicate the holiness of my great name, which has been profaned among the nations, and which you have profaned among them; and the nations will know that I am the Lord, says the Lord GOD, when through you I vindicate my holiness before their eyes. For I will take you from the nations, and gather you from all the countries, and bring you into your own land. I will sprinkle clean water upon you, and you shall be clean from all your uncleannesses, and from all your idols I will cleanse you. A new heart I will give you, and a new spirit I will put within you; and I will take out of your flesh the heart of stone and give you a heart of flesh. And I will put my spirit within you, and cause you to walk in my statutes and be careful to observe my ordinances. You shall dwell in the land which I gave to your fathers; and you shall be my people, and I will be your God.”
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Psalm42:3.5bcd; 43 :3.4 (R. 42:2)
R/. Like the deer that yearns for running streams
so my soul is yearning for you, my God.
My soul is thirsting for God
the living God;
when can I enter and appear
before the face of God? R/.
For I would go to the place
of your wondrous tent,
all the way to the house of God,
amid cries of gladness and thanksgiving,
the throng keeping joyful festival. R/.
R/. Like the deer that yearns for running streams
so my soul is yearning for you, my God.
O send forth your light and your truth;
They will guide me on.
They will bring me to your holy mountain,
To the place where you dwell. R/.
And I will come to the altar of God,
To God, my joy and gladness.
To you will I give thanks on the harp,
O God, my God. R/.
Or: When Baptism is celebrated, the Responsorial Psalm after the Fifth Reading (Isaiah 12), as above, may be used; or the Responsorial Psalm following:
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Ps 51: 12-13. 14-15.18-19 (R. 12a)
R/. Create a pure heart for me, O God.
Create a pure heart for me,
O God; renew a steadfast spirit within me.
Do not cast me away from your presence;
take not your holy spirit from me. R/.
Restore in me the joy of your salvation;
sustain in me a willing spirit.
I will teach transgressors your ways,
that sinners may return to you. R/.
R/. Create a pure heart for me, O God.
For in sacrifice you take no delight;
burnt offering from me would not please you.
My sacrifice to God, a broken spirit:
a broken and humbled heart,
O God, you will not spurn. R/.
Priest: Let us pray.
O God of unchanging power and eternal light, look with favour on the wondrous mystery of the whole Church, and serenely accomplish the work of human salvation, which you planned from all eternity; may the whole world know and see that what was cast down is raised up, what had become old is made new, and all things are restored to integrity through Christ, just as by him they came into being. Who lives and reigns for ever and ever.
R/. Amen.
OR
O God, who by the pages of both Testaments instruct and prepare us to celebrate the paschal mystery, grant that we may comprehend your mercy, so that the gifts we receive from you this night may confirm our hope of the gifts to come. Through Christ our Lord.
R/. Amen
(After the last reading from the Old Testament with its Responsorial Psalm and its prayer, the altar candles are lit, and the Priest intones the hymn Gloria in excels is Deo (Glory to God in the highest), which is taken up by all, while bells are rung, according to local custom. When the hymn is concluded, the Priest says the Collect in the usual way.)
Let us pray.
O God, who make this most sacred night radiant with the glory of the Lord’s Resurrection, stir up in your Church a spirit of adoption, so that, renewed in body and mind, we may render you undivided service. Through our Lord . . .
Then the reader proclaims the reading from the Apostle.
EPISTLE
Christ, being raised from the dead, will never die again.”
A reading from the Letter of Saint Paul to the Romans (Romans 6:3-11)
Brethren: All of us who have been baptised into Christ Jesus were baptised into his death. We were buried therefore with him by baptism into death, so that as Christ was raised from the dead by the glory of the Father, we too might walk in newness of life. For if we have been united with him in a death like his, we shall certainly be united with him in a resurrection like his. We know that our former man was crucified with him so that the sinful body might be destroyed, and we might no longer be enslaved to sin. For he who has died is freed from sin. But if we have died with Christ, we believe that we shall also live with him. For we know that Christ being raised from the dead will never die again; death no longer has dominion over him. The death he died he died to sin, once for all, but the life he lives he lives to God. So you also must consider yourselves dead to sin and alive to God in Christ Jesus.
The word of the Lord
(After the Epistle has been read, all rise, then the Priest solemnly intones the Alleluia three times, raising his voice by a step each time, with all repeating it. If necessary, the psalmist intones the Alleluia. Then the psalmist or cantor proclaims Psalm 118 with the people responding Alleluia.)
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Psalm118: 1-2.15c- 17.22-23
R/. Alleluia. Alleluia. Alleluia.
Give praise to the Lord, for he is good;
Let the house of Israel say,
“His mercy endures forever.” R/.
“The Lord’s right hand has done mighty deeds;
His right hand is exalted.
The Lord’s right hand has done mighty deeds.”
I shall not die, I shall live
And recount the deeds of the Lord. R/.
R/. Alleluia. Alleluia. Alleluia.
The stone that the builders rejected
Has become the cornerstone.
By the Lord has this been done,
A marvel in our eyes. R/.
-GOSPEL-
“Why do you seek the living among the dead?”
A reading from the holy Gospel according to Luke (Luke 24:1-12)
On the first day of the week, at early dawn, the women went to the tomb, taking the spices which they had prepared. And they found the stone rolled away from the tomb, but when they went in they did not find the body. While they were perplexed about this behold, two men stood by them in dazzling apparel; and as they were frightened and bowed their faces to the ground, the men said to them, “why do you seek the living among the dead? He is not here but has risen. Remember how he told you, while was still in Galilee; that the Son of man must be delivered into the hands of sinful men, and be crucified and on the third day rise, “And they remembered his words, and returning from the tomb they told all this to the Eleven and to all the rest. Now it was Mary Magdalene and Joanna and a Mary the mother of James and the other women with them who told this to the apostles, but these words seemed to them an idle tale, and they did not believe them. But Peter rose and ran to the tomb; stooping and looking in, he saw the linen cloths by themselves; and he went home wondering at what had happened.
The Gospel of the Lord.
PRAYER OF THE FAITHFUL
Celebrant:
On this Holy Night, Christ, the light of the world, broke the prison bars of death and rose victorious from the underworld. Let us ask him to dispel the darkness of our lives and enable us to live a new life of grace.
FOR THE CHURCH: that, through her celebration of the sacraments, she may continue to nourish and sustain the new life of grace in all her members. Let us pray to the Lord.
FOR THE LEADERS OF THE WORLD: that, clothed in the light of the risen Lord, they may rid themselves of the darkness of greed and seek to build a world where the good of every human person is promoted. Let us pray to the Lord.
FOR THOSE LIVING IN SIN: that, through the merits of Christ’s Resurrection, they may pass from the death of sin to possess the new life of Christ. Let us pray to the Lord.
FOR THE NEWLY BAPTIZED, ESPECIALLY THOSE OF OUR COMMUNITY: that their rebirth in Christ may be sustained through the ministry of the church and that they may be faithful to their baptismal promises. Let us pray to the Lord.
For other intentions: (the sick, church projects or other activities).
FOR THE DEAD: especially those of our parish community and family members: that they may find eternal rest with the Lord. Let us pray to the Lord.
We pray in silence for our private intentions.
Celebrant:
God our heavenly father, on this night of grace when your Son rose from the grave, we humbly ask you to strengthen us in our resolve to be faithful to our baptismal commitment, and in your kindness, hear our prayers. Through Christ our Lord.
R/. Amen.
THIRD PART
Baptismal Liturgy
After the Homily the baptismal liturgy begins. If no one is to be baptised and the font is not to be blessed, the Litany is omitted, and the Blessing of Water takes place at once.
In the Litany, the names of some Saints may be added, especially the Titular Saint of the church and the Patron Saints of the place and of those to be baptised.
TODAY’S REFLECTION
This is the night of ultimate victory over sin and death. This is the night of new life, new light and new hope. The darkness of this night is torn apart up by the glorious brightness of the one who conquered the power of evil, sin and death. The sadness and glooms of Good Friday are changed into joyous songs of Alleluia. The Paschal mystery reaches its climax tonight. The resurrection of Jesus completed the Father's plan for the salvation of the world. Eternal life is made possible as the one who was tortured, humiliated, crucified on a tree and buried in a tomb comes out alive. Because He rose, we too shall rise again, Because He is alive, we too shall live. In Christ we have our victory. In His resurrection we have our life. We still have to pass through the, sorrows, struggles, defeats, rejections, humiliations, misunderstanding and tortures of our Good Friday in this world. But all of these will end as we partake of the glory of the Risen Jesus. Following Christ our Master, we carry our crosses and walk to our Calvary daily, so that we shall enjoy the glory of new life with Him. Our baptism is a participation in His death and resurrection. We shall renew and live our baptismal commitment and live in the innocence of our new life daily so that we shall enjoy the glory that awaits us.
PERSONAL DEVOTIONAL
When you fail to study for an exam, you will never know what you need to know in order to pass very well. In order for us to know the secrets of how to live a holy and glorious life which will help us to make heaven, we must be willing and ready to study the Scripture, because God has revealed to us a lot about Himself through His Son our Lord Jesus Christ which we can find in the Bible. It will be very sad that you have all you need to pass an exam and still you go ahead to fail the exam. Therefore, pick up your Bible, read and study it everyday and teach others to study it too and your life will never be the same again.
Every word the Lord has spoken about you in the Scripture must come to fulfilment. Trust in Him, believe in it and 'eat' His word as food on a daily basis and you will definitely have the best nourishment for your soul.
Let us pray:
Lord Jesus, may my acceptance of your cross bring me everlasting joy. Amen.
Sunday April 9, 2023
EASTER SUNDAY (SOLEMNITY)
The Resurrection of the Lord
Office: Proper, Te Deum
Mass prop. Gloria. Sequence. Creed. Preface of Easter 1
In Eucharistic Prayer 1, proper insertions should be used.
Vestment: White
Today’s Rosary: The Glorious Mysteries
THE EASTER SEASON
The Easter season is a traditional time when homes may be blessed from the order for the “Blessing of Homes. Cf ‘Book of Blessings and prayer’ (National Conference of Catholic Bishops committee on the Liturgy. 2007 edition) 153-156
ENTRANCE ANTIPHON Cf. Ps 139:18.5-6
I have risen, and I am with you still, alleluia. You have laid your hand upon me, alleluia. Too wonderful for me, this knowledge, alleluia, alleluia.
Or: Lk 24:34; cf. Rv 1:6
The Lord is truly risen, alleluia. To him be glory and power for all the ages of eternity, alleluia, alleluia.
COLLECT
O God, who on this day, through your Only Begotten Son, have conquered death and unlocked for us the path to eternity, grant, we pray, that we who keep the solemnity of the Lord’s Resurrection may, through the renewal brought by your Spirit, rise up in the light of life. Through our Lord
-FIRST READING-
“We ate and drank with him after he rose from the dead.”
A reading from the Acts of the Apostles (Acts 10:34a.37-43)
In those days: Peter opened his mouth and said, “You know the word which was proclaimed throughout all Judea, beginning from Galilee after the baptism which John preached: how God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Spirit and with power; how he went about doing good and healing all that were oppressed by the devil, for God was with him. And we are witnesses to all that he did both in the country of the Jews and in Jerusalem. They put him to death by hanging him on a tree; but God raised him on the third day and made him manifest; not to all the people but to us who were chosen by God as witnesses, who ate and drank with him after he rose from the dead. And he commanded us to preach to the people, and to testify that he is the one ordained by God to be judge of the living and the dead. To him all the prophets bear witness that every one who believes in him receives forgiveness of sins through his name.”
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Psalm118: 1-2.15c- 17.22-23 (R. 24)
R/. This is the day the Lord has made; let us rejoice in it and be glad.
Or: Alleluia.
Give praise to the Lord, for he is good;
his mercy endures forever.
Let the house of Israel say,
“His mercy endures forever.” R/.
“The Lord’s right hand has
done mighty deeds;
his right hand is exalted.
The Lord’s right hand
has done mighty deeds.”
I shall not die, I shall live
and recount the deeds of the Lord. R/.
R/. This is the day the Lord has made; let us rejoice in it and be glad.
Or: Alleluia.
The stone that the builders rejected
has become the cornerstone.
By the Lord has this been done,
a marvel in our eyes. R/.
-SECOND READING-
“Seek the things that are above, where Christ is.”
A reading from the Letter of Saint Paul to the Colossians (Colossians 3 : 1 - 4)
Brethren: If you have been raised with Christ, seek the things that are above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God. Set your minds on things that are above, not on things that are on earth. For you have died, and your life is hidden with Christ in God. When Christ who is our life appears, then you also will appear with him in glory.
The word of the Lord.
Or the following:
-SECOND READING-
“Cleanse out the old leaven that you may be new dough.”
A reading from the first Letter of Saint Paul to the Corinthians (1 Corinthians 5:6b-8)
Do you not know that a little leaven leavens all the dough? Cleanse out the old leaven that you may be new dough, as you really are unleavened. For Christ, our Paschal Lamb, has been sacrificed. Let us, therefore, celebrate the festival, not with the old leaven, the leaven of malice and evil, but with the unleavened bread of sincerity and truth.
The word of the Lord.
SEQUENCE (prose text)
To the Paschal Victim let Christians offer a sacrifice of praise.
The Lamb redeemed the sheep.
Christ, sinless, reconciled sinners to the Father.
Death and life were locked together in a unique struggle.
Life’s captain died; now he reigns, never more to die.
Tell us, Mary, “What did you see on the way?” “I saw the tomb of the now living Christ.
I saw the glory of Christ, now risen. “I saw angels who gave witness;
the cloths too which once had covered head and limbs. “Christ my hope has arisen.
He will go before his own into Galilee.”
We know that Christ has indeed risen from the dead. Do you, conqueror and king, have mercy on us.
Amen. Alleluia.
Or the following:
SEQUENCE (poetic text)
Christians, to the Paschal Victim
Offer your thankful praises!
A Lamb the sheep redeems:
Christ, who only is sinless,
Reconciles sinners to the Father.
Death and life have contended in that combat stupendous:
The Prince of life, who died, reigns immortal.
Speak, Mary, declaring
What you saw, wayfaring.
“The tomb of Christ, who is living,
The glory of Jesus’ resurrection;
Bright angels attesting,
The shroud and napkin resting.
Yes, Christ my hope is arisen:
To Galilee he goes before you.”
Christ indeed from death is risen, our new life obtaining.
Have mercy, victor King, ever reigning!
Amen. Alleluia.
Or the following:
SEQUENCE (Latin text)
Victimæ paschàli laudes immolent Christiàni.
Agnus redémit oves: Christus innocens Patri reconciliàvit peccatôres.
Mors et vita duéllo conflixére miràndo: dux vitæ mörtuus regnat vivus.
Dic nobis, Maria, quid vidisti in via?
Sepùlcrum Christi vivéntis: et glöriam vidi resurgéntis,
Angélicos testes, sudàrium et vestes.
Surréxit Christus spes mea: præcédet suos in Galil"æam.
Scimus Christum surrexisse a môrtuis vere:
tu nobis, victor Rex, miserére.
Amen. Alleluia.
ALLELUIA 1 Corinthians 5:7b.8a
Alleluia. Christ, our Paschal Lamb, has been sacrificed; let us, therefore, celebrate the festival in the Lord. Alleluia.
-GOSPEL-
“He must rise from the dead.”
A reading from the holy Gospel according to John (John 20:1-9)
On the first day of the week, Mary Magdalene came to the tomb early, while it was still dark, and saw that the stone had been taken away from the tomb. So she ran, and went to Simon Peter and the other disciple, the one whom Jesus loved, and said to them, “They have taken the Lord out of the tomb, and we do not know where they have laid him.” Peter then came out with the other disciple, and they went towards the tomb. They both ran, but the other disciple outran Peter and reached the tomb first; and stooping to look in, he saw the linen cloths lying there, but he did not go in. Then Simon Peter came, following him, and went into the tomb; he saw the linen cloths lying, and the napkin, which had been on his head, not lying with the linen cloths but rolled up in a place by itself. Then the other disciple, who reached the tomb first, also went in, and he saw and believed; for as yet they did not know the Scripture, that he must rise from the dead.
The Gospel of the Lord.
-GOSPEL-
“He has risen and he is going before you to Galilee.”
A reading from the holy Gospel according to Matthew (Matthew 28: 1- 10)
After the Sabbath, towards the dawn of the first day of the week, Mary Magdalene and the other Mary went to see the tomb. And behold, there was a great earthquake; for an angel of the Lord descended from heaven and came and rolled back the stone, and sat upon it. His appearance was like lightning, and his clothing white as snow. And for fear of him the guards trembled and became like dead men. But the angel said to the women, “Do not be afraid; for I know that you seek Jesus who was crucified. He is not here; for he has risen, as he said. Come, see the place where he lay. Then go quickly and tell his disciples that he has risen from the dead, and behold, he is going before you to Galilee; there you will see him. Behold, I have told you.” So they departed quickly from the tomb with fear and great joy, and ran to tell his disciples. And behold, Jesus met them and said, “Hail!” And they came up and took hold of his feet and worshipped him. Then Jesus said to them, “Do not be afraid; go and tell my brethren to go to Galilee, and there they will see me.”
The Gospel of the Lord
-GOSPEL-
“They recognised him in the breaking of the bread.”
A reading from the holy Gospel according to Luke (Luke 24: 13-35)
That very day [the first day of the week], two of the disciples of Jesus were going to a village named Emmaus, about seven miles from Jerusalem, and talking with each other about all these things that had happened. While they were talking and discussing together, Jesus himself drew near and went with them. But their eyes were kept from recognising him. And he said to them, “What is this conversation which you are holding with each other as you walk?” And they stood still, looking sad. Then one of them, named Cleopas, answered him, “Are you the only visitor to Jerusalem who does not know the things that have happened there in these days?” And he said to them, “What things?” And they said to him, “Concerning Jesus of Nazareth, who was a prophet mighty in deed and word before God and all the people, and how our chief priests and rulers delivered him up to be condemned to death, and crucified him. But we had hoped that he was the one to redeem Israel. Yes, and besides all this, it is now the third day since this happened. Moreover, some women of our company amazed us. They were at the tomb early in the morning and did not find his body; and they came back saying that they had even seen a vision of angels, who said that he was alive. Some of those who were with us went to the tomb, and found it just as the women had said; but him they did not see.” And he said to them, “O foolish men, and slow of heart to believe all that the prophets have spoken! Was it not necessary that the Christ should suffer these things and enter into his glory?” And beginning with Moses and all the prophets, he interpreted to them in all the Scriptures the things concerning himself. So they drew near to the village to which they were going. He appeared to be going further, but they constrained him, saying, “Stay with us, for it is towards evening and the day is now far spent.” So he went in to stay with them. When he was at table with them, he took the bread and blessed and broke it, and gave it to them. And their eyes were opened and they recognised him; and he vanished out of their sight. They said to each, other, “Did not our hearts burn within us while he talked to us on the road, while he opened to us the Scriptures?” And they rose that same hour and returned to Jerusalem; and they found the Eleven gathered together and those who were with them, who said, “The Lord has risen indeed, and has appeared to Simon!” Then they told what had happened on the road, and how he was known to them in the breaking of the bread.
The Gospel of the Lord.
PRAYER OF THE FAITHFUL
(Mass of the Day)
Celebrant:
By the grace of his Resurrection, our Lord Jesus Christ conquered death and banished the darkness of sin. Let us pray that God may grant us his help to be able to rise from our sinful ways and embrace a new life of grace in Christ.
FOR THE MINISTERS OF THE CHURCH: that, by bearing courageous witness to the risen Lord, they may be messengers of hope to the world. Let us pray to the Lord.
FOR POLITICAL LEADERS: that through the policies that they make, they may strive to guarantee respect for human life from conception to its natural end. Let us pray to the Lord.
FOR THOSE GOING THROUGH TRIALS: that they may not despair but trust that the risen Lord is with them and will bring them out of their tribulations. Let us pray to the Lord.
FOR MEMBERS OF OUR WORSHIPPING COMMUNITY: that we may participate with greater enthusiasm in the proclamation of the Gospel of the risen Christ. Let us pray to the Lord.
FOR OTHER INTENTIONS: (the sick, church projects or other activities).
For the dead: especially those of our parish community and family members: that they may find eternal rest with the Lord. Let us pray to the Lord.
We pray in silence for our private intentions.
Celebrant:
God our Father, by the death and Resurrection of your Son, you freed us from the slavery of sin. May the light of your risen Son dispel the darkness of our lives and may you grant the prayers we make to you through Jesus Christ our risen Lord.
R/. Amen.
TODAY’S REFLECTION
On being alerted by Mary Magdalene, Peter and John run to the Lord’s tomb to see if the body had been stolen by someone-a hypothesis that was ruled out by what they saw there. They re-read the event in a new way, in the light of Scripture.
The liturgical assembly on Easter day exults in realizing all the hopes of the messianic people of God-the hope of liberation, of entering into the Promised Land, of restoration of justice, of new earth and new heavens. The faithful of Christ have entered into this new reality and live and move in its light. The real newness is Christ who came into the world lived with humans, died and rose again and is ever present.
It is in him that the interior human being is renewed every day (2cor 4:6). The exterior man, the old reality, needs to be broken to open up the way for the birth of the new human reality, the fruit of redemption in Christ. “To put on Christ” is one of the many expressions coined by St Paul to present this mysterious reality of grace. To put on Christ means to enter into him and to live in him so that our life becomes hidden in him and with him in God. Thus, “anyone who is in Christ is a new creature. The Christian is dead to sin and risen with Christ to new life.
PERSONAL DEVOTIONAL
When we truly love a person from the depth of our heart, we will respect that person and will not want to cause the person pain. Our attitude to life should either show God that we love Him and have Him as our one and only God or that we are interested in other gods. We show God that we love Him by keeping His commandments and by respecting the sacredness of the temple of which we are and represent. We must not let our familiarity with God's house breed contempt, instead, we must try to show God respect by doing that which will please Him and give glory to His name.
Learn to separate between the secular and the sacred, and always work hard to build up yourself in such a way that respect to God and His commandments comes first above every other thing you may desire in this life.
Let Us Pray:
Lord Jesus, may my acceptance of your cross bring me everlasting joy. Amen
Monday April 10, 2023
Office: Proper, Te Deum
Mass prop. Gloria. No Creed, remainder as on Easter Sunday
Octave of Easter
Vestment: White
Today’s Rosary: The Joyful Mysteries
ENTRANCE ANTIPHON Ex 13:5.9
The Lord has led you into a land flowing with milk and honey, that the law of the Lord may always be on your lips, alleluia.
The Lord has risen from the dead, as he said; Let us all exult and rejoice, for he reigns for all eternity, alleluia.
The GLORIA in excels is (Glory to God in the highest) is said.
COLLECT
O God, who give constant increase to your Church by new offspring, grant that your servants may hold fast in their lives to the Sacrament they have received in faith. Through our Lord...
-FIRST READING-
“This Jesus God raised up, and of that we all are witnesses.”
A reading from the Acts of the Apostles (Acts 2: 14.22-33)
[On the day of Pentecost,] Peter, standing with the Eleven, lifted up his voice and addressed them, “Men of Judea and all who dwell in Jerusalem, let this be known to you, and give ear to my words. “Jesus of Nazareth, a man attested to you by God with mighty works and wonders and signs which God did through him in your midst, as you yourselves know — this Jesus, delivered up according to the definite plan and foreknowledge of God, you crucified and killed by the hands of lawless men. But God raised him up, having loosed the pangs of death, because it was not possible for him to be held by it. For David says concerning him, ‘I saw the Lord always before me, for he is at my right hand that I may not be shaken; therefore my heart was glad, and my tongue rejoiced; moreover my flesh will dwell in hope. For you will not abandon my soul to Hades, nor let your Holy One see corruption. You have made known to me the ways of life; you will make me full of gladness with your presence.’ “Brethren, I may say to you confidently of the patriarch David that he both died and was buried, and his tomb is with us to this day. Being therefore a prophet, and knowing that God had sworn with an oath to him that he would set one of his descendants upon his throne, he foresaw and spoke of the resurrection of the Christ, that he was not abandoned to Hades, nor did his flesh see corruption. This Jesus God raised up, and of that we all are witnesses. Being therefore exalted at the right hand of God, and having received from the Father the promise of the Holy Spirit, he has poured out this which you see and hear.”
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Psalm 16: 1-2a and 5.7-8.9-10.11 (R. 1)
R/. Preserve me, O God, for in you I take refuge.
Or: Alleluia.
Preserve me, O God, for in you I take refuge.
I say to the Lord, “You are my Lord.”
O Lord, it is you who are my portion and cup;
you yourself who secure my lot. R/.
I will bless the Lord who gives me counsel,
who even at night directs my heart.
I keep the Lord before me always;
with him at my right hand, I shall not be moved. R/.
R/. Preserve me, O God, for in you I take refuge.
Or: Alleluia.
And so, my heart rejoices, my soul is glad;
even my flesh shall rest in hope.
For you will not abandon my soul to hell,
nor let your holy one see corruption. R/.
You will show me the path of life,
the fullness of joy in your presence,
at your right hand, bliss forever. R/.
ALLELUIA Psalm 118:24
Alleluia. This is the day the Lord has made; let us rejoice in it and be glad. Alleluia.
-GOSPEL-
“Tell my brethren to go to Galilee, and there they will see me. ”
A reading from the holy Gospel according to Matthew (Matthew 28:8-15)
At that time: The women departed quickly from the tomb with fear and great joy, and ran to tell his disciples. And behold, Jesus met them. and said, “Hail!” And they came up and took hold of his feet and worshipped him. Then Jesus said to them, “Do not be afraid; go and tell my brethren to go to Galilee, and there they will see me.” While they were going, behold, some of the guard went into the city and told the chief priests all that had taken place. And when they had assembled with the elders and taken counsel, they gave a sum of money to the soldiers and said, “Tell people, ‘His disciples came by night and stole him away while we were asleep And if this comes to the governor’s ears, we will satisfy him and keep you out of trouble.” So they took the money and did as they were directed; and this story has been spread among the Jews to this day.
The Gospel of the Lord.
TODAY’S REFLECTION
The resurrection of Christ is a sign of contradiction; it produces joy in its witnesses, but in those who are hard of heart, falsehood. Peter’s message, full of joy and exultation, is addressed to all people. All of us are called to listen to and make our own his words: “God raised this Jesus to life; we are all witnesses to that.” This witnessing springs from an experience of the Risen Lord who meets and greets us on the way. The death of Christ is in fact birth; it is liberation and recovery of all that is human which, passing through death, arrives at the fullness of perennial vitality. In the resurrection humanity is saved in a unique and definitive way. Whatever is human has been received and renewed by the living God through Christ. This inexhaustible mystery is revealed to those who are sincere and free from falsehood.
PERSONAL DEVOTIONAL
LORD, I put my life in your hands. I trust in you, my God, and I will not be disappointed. My enemies will not laugh at me. No one who trusts in you will be disappointed. Psalm 25:1-5
- Most High God, my life is in your hand, please be my defense (Psalm 7:10, Job 22:25). Protect me when I go out, when I come in, and all the days of my life in the name of Jesus.
- Pray with Psalm 91 (Meditatively)
Let Us Pray,
O Lord, I am weak and broken, surrounded on all sides by corruption and perversion. Lord have mercy on me: protect me from my enemies who devour me, and guide me in the way of perfection. No matter what happens to me, whether it be an attack or a seduction, may my love for you protect me from falling into sin. May I live a holy life no matter what others do around me – Amen
Tuesday April 11, 2023
Octave of Easter
Office: Proper, Te Deum
Mass prop. Gloria. No Creed, remainder as on Easter Sunday
Vestment: White
Today’s Rosary: The Sorrowful Mysteries
Entrance Antiphon cr. Sir 15: 3-4
He gave them the water of wisdom to drink; it will be made strong in them and will not be moved; it will raise them up forever, alleluia.
The Gloria in excels is (Glory to God in the highest) is said.
COLLECT
O God, who have bestowed on us paschal remedies, endow your people with heavenly gifts, so that, possessed of perfect freedom, they may rejoice in heaven over what gladdens them now on earth. Through our Lord..
-FIRST READING-
“Repent, and be baptised every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ.”
A reading from the Acts of the Apostles (Acts 2:36-41)
[On the day of Pentecost,] Peter said to the Jews, “Let all the house of Israel know assuredly that God has made him both Lord and Christ, this Jesus whom you crucified.” Now when they heard this they were cut to the heart, and said to Peter and the rest of the apostles, “Brethren, what shall we do?” And Peter said to them, “Repent, and be baptised every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins; and you shall receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. For the promise is to you and to your children and to all that are far off, every one whom the Lord our God calls to him.” And he testified with many other words and exhorted them, saying, “Save yourselves from this crooked generation.” So those who received his word were baptised, and there were added that day about three thousand souls.
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Psalm 33:4-5.18-19.20 and 22 (R. 5b)
R/. His merciful love fills the earth.
Or: Alleluia.
The word of the Lord is faithful,
and all his works to be trusted.
The Lord loves justice and right,
and his merciful love fills the earth. R/.
Yes, the Lord’s eyes are on those who fear him,
who hope in his merciful love,
to rescue their souls from death,
to keep them alive in famine. R/.
R/. His merciful love fills the earth.
Or: Alleluia.
Our soul is waiting for the LORD.
He is our help and our shield.
May your merciful love be upon us,
as we hope in you, O LORD. R/.
ALLELUIA Psalm 118:24
Alleluia. This is the day the Lord has made; let us rejoice in it and be glad. Alleluia.
-GOSPEL-
I have seen the Lord and he said these things to me.
A reading from the holy Gospel according to John (John 20:11 -18)
At that time: Mary stood weeping outside the tomb, and as she wept she stooped to look into the tomb; and she saw two angels in white, sitting where the body of Jesus had lain, one at the head and one at the feet. They said to her, “Woman, why are you weeping?” She said to them, “Because they have taken away my Lord, and I do not know where they have laid him.” Saying this, she turned round and saw Jesus standing, but she did not know that it was Jesus. Jesus said to her, “woman, why are you weeping? Whom do you seek?” supposing him to be the gardener, she said to him, “Sir, if you have carried him away, tell me where you have laid him and I will take him away.” Jesus said to her, “Mary.” She turned and said to him in Hebrew, “Rabboni!” (which means teacher Jesus said to her, “Do not hold me, for I have not yet ascended to the Father; but go to my brethren and say to them, I am ascending to my Father and your Father, to my God and your God.” Mary Magdalene went and said to the disciples, “I have seen the Lord”; and she told them that he had said these things to her.
The Gospel of the Lord.
TODAY’S REFLECTION
The cry “Rabboni!” that Mary Magdalene made responding to Christ, expresses the response of the human being who searches, imagines, questions, suffers and is troubled as he or she reaches forward to grasp what is beyond grasp and who stops in wonder, unexpectedly recognizing the voice of truth. This is not a truth that is distant and abstract, but the living person of Christ who is present and calls your name sweetly. And the task of proclaiming to the brethren the passing of Jesus to the Farther is entrusted to Magdalene by the Risen Lord himself. How blessed every Christian would be if he or she can say like her, “I have seen the Lord!”
PERSONAL DEVOTIONAL
Therefore, my dear brothers and sisters, stand firm. Let nothing move you. Always give yourselves fully to the work of the Lord, because you know that your labor in the Lord is not in vain – 1 Corinthians 15:58
- Pray for all Christians at work, that they may look on their employment as a Ministry of Evangelization
- Pray for those seeking for employment that God in His infinite mercies should provide for them
- Pray for those whose promotion, pension and gratuities are being withheld, that the good lord should release it for them in Jesus name
- Pray for employers of labour that they may put the good of their employee as a priority always.
Let us pray,
Father in whom all things are possible, with thankful heart we raise our supplications to you, grant us our petition, we pray through your son Jesus Christ who lives and reigns forever and ever amen.
Wednesday April 12, 2023
Octave of Easter
Office: Proper, Te Deum
Mass prop. Gloria. no Creed, remainder as on Easter Sunday
Vestment: White
Today’s Rosary: The Glorious Mysteries
ENTRANCE ANTIPHON
Come, you blessed of my Father, receive the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world, alleluia..
COLLET
O God, who gladden us year by year with the solemnity of the Lord’s Resurrection, graciously grant, that by celebrating these present festivities, we may merit through them to reach eternal joys. Through our Lord...
-FIRST READING-
“I give you what I have, in the name of Jesus, rise and walk.”
A reading from the Acts of the Apostles Acts 3:1-10
In those days: Peter and John were going up to the temple at the hour of prayer, the ninth hour. And a man lame from birth was being carried, whom they laid daily at that gate of the temple which is called Beautiful to ask alms of those who entered the temple. Seeing Peter and John about to go into the temple, he asked for alms. And Peter directed his gaze at him, with John, and said, “Look at us.” And he fixed his attention upon them, expecting to receive something from them. But Peter said, “I have no silver and gold, but I give you what I have; in the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, rise and walk.” And he took him by the right hand and raised him up; and immediately his feet and ankles were made strong. And leaping up he stood and walked and entered the temple with them, walking and leaping and praising God. And all the people saw him walking and praising God, and recognised him as the one who sat for alms at the Beautiful Gate of the temple; and they were filled with wonder and amazement at what had happened to him.
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Psalm 105:1-2.3-4.6-7.8-9 (R. 3b)
R/. Let the hearts that seek the Lord rejoice.
Or: Alleluia.
Give thanks to the Lord; proclaim his name.
Make known his deeds among the peoples.
O sing to him, sing his praise;
tell all his wonderful works! R/.
Glory in his holy name;
let the hearts that seek the Lord rejoice.
Turn to the Lord and his strength;
constantly seek his face. R/.
R/. Let the hearts that seek the Lord rejoice.
Or: Alleluia.
O children of Abraham, his servant,
O descendants of the Jacob he chose,
he, the Lord, is our God;
his judgements are in all the earth. R/.
He remembers his covenant forever:
the promise he ordained for a thousand generations,
the covenant he made with Abraham,
the oath he swore to Isaac. R/.
ALLELUIA Psalm 118:24
Alleluia. This is the day the Lord has made; let us rejoice in it and be glad. Alleluia.
-GOSPEL-
They recognised him in the breaking of the bread.
* A reading from the holy Gospel according to Luke (Luke 24:13-35)
That very day, [the first day of the week,] two of the disciples of Jesus were going to a village named Emmaus, about seven miles from Jerusalem, and talking with each other about all these things that had happened. While they were talking and discussing together, Jesus himself drew near and went with them. But their eyes were kept from recognising him. And he said to them, “What is this conversation which you are holding with each other as you walk?” And they stood still, looking sad. Then one of them, named Cleopas, answered him, “Are you the only visitor to Jerusalem who does not know the things that have happened there in these days?” And he said to them, “What things?” And they said to him, “Concerning Jesus of Nazareth, who was a prophet mighty in deed and word before God and all the people, and how our chief priests and rulers delivered him up to be condemned to death, and crucified him. But we had hoped that he was the one to redeem Israel. Yes, and besides all this, it is now the third day since this happened. Moreover, some women of our company amazed us. They were at the tomb early in the morning and did not find his body; and they came back saying that they had even seen a vision of angels, who said that he was alive. Some of those who were with us went to the tomb, and found it just as the women had said; but him they did not see.” And he said to them, “O foolish men, and slow of heart to believe all that the prophets have spoken! Was it not necessary that the Christ should suffer these things and enter into his glory?” And beginning with Moses and all the prophets, he interpreted to them in all the Scriptures the things concerning himself. So they drew near to the village to which they were going. He appeared to be going further, but they constrained him, saying, “Stay with us, for it is towards evening and the day is now far spent.” So he went in to stay with them. When he was at table with them, he took the bread and blessed and broke it, and gave it to them. And their eyes were opened and they recognised him; and he vanished out of their sight. They said to each other, “Did not our hearts burn within us while he talked to us on the road, while he opened to us the Scriptures?” And they rose that same hour and returned to Jerusalem; and they found the Eleven gathered together and those who were with them, who said, “The Lord has risen indeed, and has appeared to Simon!” Then they told what had happened on the road, and how he was known to them in the breaking of the bread.
The Gospel of the Lord.
TODAY’S REFLECTION
The pilgrims of Emmaus had trusted in Jesus as a prophet, and hoped that he would be their victorious leader. They hoped for a military triumph of their nation, of the just who were oppressed, and for a new order of earthly freedom. Therefore the tragedy of the cross frightened them. Jesus cannot be found in the tomb either. Some women reported him alive, but the men who went to the tomb found nothing. But we meet Christ in the word of God and the breaking of Bread, as the pilgrims of Emmaus did. They had “lost” him were leaving the group of the disciples. Jesus meets them, and they return to the community of disciples. That is where they belong.
PERSONAL DEVOTIONAL
"When you give something to a needy person, do not make a big show of it so that people will praise you as the hypocrites do in the houses of worship and on the streets” - Matt 6:2
- Tell God to restore you as the father restored the prodigal son. To keep intact all your family members in the fellowship of Jesus.
- Tell God to restore to you all lost blessings and privileges so that you can always be the giver, because givers never lack.
Let Us Pray,
Dear Jesus my shepherd, give me courage to overcome my fears, to stand firm in my faith, to live in accordance with your word, to walk the path of truth and love even when it is dangerous. Grant me courage to have dogged trust in your care and protection over me even in the midst of darkest situation.
Thursday April 13, 2023
Office: Proper, Te Deum
Mass prop. Gloria. no Creed. remainder as on Easter Sunday
Octave of Easter
Vestment: White
Today’s Rosary: The Luminous Mysteries
ENTRANCE ANTIPHON
They praised in unison your conquering hand, O Lord, for wisdom opened mouths that were mute and gave eloquence to the tongues of infants, alleluia.
The Gloria in excels is (Glory to God in the highest) is said.
COLLECT
O God, who have united the many nations in confessing your name, grant that those reborn in the font of Baptism may be one in the faith of their hearts and the homage of their deeds. Through our Lord...
-FIRST READING-
“You killed the Author of life, whom God raised from the dead. ”
A reading from the Acts of the Apostles (Acts 3 : 11-26)
In those days: While the lame man who had been cured clung to Peter and John, all the people ran together to them in the portico called Solomon’s, astounded. And when Peter saw it he addressed the people, “Men of Israel, why do you wonder at this, or why do you stare at us, as though by our own power or piety we had made him walk? The God of Abraham and of Isaac and of Jacob, the God of our fathers, glorified his servant Jesus, whom you delivered up and denied in the presence of Pilate, when he had decided to release him. But you denied the Holy and Righteous One, and asked for a murderer to be granted to you, and killed the Author of life, whom God raised from the dead. To this we are witnesses. And his name, by faith in his name, has made this man strong whom you see and know; and the faith which is through Jesus has given the man this perfect health in the presence of you all. “And now, brethren, I know that you acted in ignorance, as did also your rulers. But what God foretold by the mouth of all the prophets, that his Christ should suffer, he thus fulfilled. Repent therefore, and turn again, that your sins may be blotted out, that times of refreshing may come from the presence of the Lord, and that he may send the Christ appointed for you, Jesus, whom heaven must receive until the time for establishing all that God spoke by the mouth of his holy prophets from of old. Moses said, ‘The Lord God will raise up for you a prophet from your brethren as he raised me up. You shall listen to him in whatever he tells you. And it shall be that every soul that does not listen to that prophet shall be destroyed from the people.’ And all the prophets who have spoken, from Samuel and those who came afterwards, also proclaimed these days. You are the sons of the prophets and of the covenant which God gave to your fathers, saying to Abraham, ‘And in your posterity shall all the families of the earth be blessed.’ God, having raised up his servant, sent him to you first, to bless you in turning every one of you from your wickedness.”
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Psalm 8:2ab and 5.6-7a.7b-9 (R. 2ab)
R/. O Lord, our Lord, how majestic is your name through all the earth!
Or: Alleluia.
O Lord, our Lord, how majestic
is your name through all the earth!
What is man that you should keep him in mind,
the son of man that you care for him? R/.
Yet you have made him little lower than the angels;
with glory and honour you crowned him,
gave him power over the works of your hands. R/.
R/. O Lord, our Lord, how majestic is your name through all the earth!
Or: Alleluia.
You put all things under his feet,
all of them, sheep and oxen,
yes, even the cattle of the fields,
birds of the air, and fish of the sea
that make their way through the waters. R/.
ALLELUIA Psalm 118:24
Alleluia. This is the day the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it. Alleluia.
-GOSPEL-
“Thus it is written, that the Christ should suffer and on the third day rise from the dead. ”
A reading from the holy Gospel according to Luke (Luke 24:35-48)
At that time: The two disciples told what had happened on the road to Emmaus and how Jesus was known to them in the breaking of the bread. As they were saying this, Jesus himself stood among them, and said to them, “Peace to you.” But they were startled and frightened, and supposed that they saw a spirit. And he said to them, “Why are you troubled, and why do questionings rise in your hearts? See my hands and my feet, that it is I myself; handle me, and see; for a spirit has not flesh and bones as you see that I have.” And when he had said this he showed them his hands and his feet. And while they still disbelieved for joy, and wondered, he said to them, “Have you anything here to eat?” They gave him a piece of broiled fish, and he took it and ate before them. Then he said to them, “These are my words which I spoke to you, while I was still with you, that everything written about me in the law of Moses and the prophets and the psalms must be fulfilled.” Then he opened their minds to understand the Scriptures, and said to them, “Thus it is written, that the Christ should suffer and on the third day rise from the dead, and that repentance and forgiveness of sins should be preached in his name to all nations, beginning from Jerusalem. You are witnesses of these things.”
The Gospel of the Lord.
TODAY’S REFLECTION
We know the risen Christ not merely from the historical facts on Jesus of Nazareth. The mystery of the resurrection is the mystery of life, and it opens itself to those who are ready to be converted. The resurrection is the source of the prodigious power which renews and heal human beings. To believe in the Resurrection is to follow Christ. His way to the Resurrection was that of suffering. And so will our way to the risen life, too. To live the Resurrection is to enter into his itinerary, to walk his way, to pass with him from death to life. This calls for conversion from ourselves to him. Conversion is faith and a gift of God. The one who believes in Christ has already risen with him and is a witness of his resurrection.
PERSONAL DEVOTIONAL
Leave all your worries with Him, because He cares for you. -1 Peter 5:7
- Ask God to give you the grace not to be drawn away by the attractions of this world.
- Pray against the spirit of worldliness in Pastors, Priest and the Religious.
- Lord, help me to understand that my life is useless without you.
Let Us Pray,
Lord, remove every spirit of crookedness in me and restore the spirit of honesty, uprightness and sincerity in the name of Jesus. Amen.
Friday April 14, 2023
Octave of Easter
Office: Proper, Te Deum
Mass prop. Gloria. no Creed. remainder as on Easter Sunday
Vestment: White
Today’s Rosary: The Sorrowful Mysteries
ENTRANCE ANTIPHON CF. Ps 78:53
The Lord led his people in hope, while the sea engulfed their foes, alleluia
The Gloria in excels is (Glory to God in the highest) is said.
COLLECT
Almighty ever-living God, who gave us the paschal mystery in the covenant you established for reconciling the human race; so dispose our minds, we pray, that what we celebrate by professing the faith we may express in deeds. Through our Lord...
-FIRST READING-
“There is no other name by which we must be saved.”
A reading from the Acts of the Apostles (Acts 4:1-12)
In those days: As Peter and John were speaking to the people, [after the lame man was healed,] the priests and the captain of the temple and the Sadducees came upon them, annoyed because they were teaching the people and proclaiming in Jesus the resurrection from the dead. And they arrested them and put them in custody until the next day, for it was already evening. But many of those who heard the word believed; and the number of the men came to about five thousand. On the next day their rulers and elders and scribes were gathered together in Jerusalem, with Annas the high priest and Caiaphas and John and Alexander, and all who were of the high-priestly family. And when they had set them in their midst, they inquired, “By what power or by what name did you do this?” Then Peter, filled with the Holy Spirit, said to them, “Rulers of the people and elders, if we are being examined today concerning a good deed done to a cripple, by what means this man has been healed, be it known to you all, and to all the people of Israel, that by the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, whom you crucified, whom God raised from the dead, by him this man is standing before you well. This is the stone which was rejected by you builders, but which has become the cornerstone. And there is salvation in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given among men by which we must be saved.”
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Ps 118:1-2 and 4.22-24.25-27ab (R. 22)
R/. The stone which the builders rejected has become the cornerstone.
Or: Alleluia.
Give praise to the LORD, for he is good;
his mercy endures forever.
Let the house of Israel say,
“His mercy endures forever.”
Let those who fear the Lord say,
“His mercy endures forever.” R/.
The stone that the builders rejected
has become the cornerstone.
By the Lord has this been done,
a marvel in our eyes.
This is the day the Lord has made;
let us rejoice in it and be glad. R/.
R/. The stone which the builders rejected has become the cornerstone.
Or: Alleluia.
O Lord, grant salvation;
O Lord, grant success.
Blest is he who comes in the name of the Lord.
We bless you from the house of the Lord;
the Lord is God, and has given us light. R/.
ALLELUIA Psalm 118:24
Alleluia. This is the day the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it. Alleluia.
-GOSPEL-
“Jesus came and took the bread and gave it to them, and so with the fish. ”
A reading from the holy Gospel according to John (John 21: 1-14)
At that time: Jesus revealed himself again to the disciples by the Sea of Tiberias; and he revealed himself in this way. Simon Peter, Thomas called the Twin, Nathanael of Cana in Galilee, the sons of Zebedee, and two others of his disciples were together. Simon Peter said to them, “I am going fishing.” They said to him, “We will go with you.” They went out and got into the boat; but that night they caught nothing. Just as day was breaking, Jesus stood on the beach; yet the disciples did not know that it was Jesus. Jesus said to them, “Children, have you any fish?” They answered him, “No.” He said to them, “Cast the net on the right side of the boat, and you will find some.” So they cast it, and now they were not able to haul it in, for the quantity of fish. That disciple whom Jesus loved said to Peter, “It is the Lord!” When Simon Peter heard that it was the Lord, he put on his clothes, for he was stripped for work, and sprang into the sea. But the other disciples came in the boat, dragging the net full of fish, for they were not far from the land, but about a hundred yards off. When they got out on land, they saw a charcoal fire there, with fish lying on it, and bread. Jesus said to them, “Bring some of the fish that you have just caught.” So Simon Peter went aboard and hauled the net ashore, full of large fish, a hundred and fifty-three of them; and although there were so many, the net was not torn. Jesus said to them, “Come and have breakfast.” Now none of the disciples dared ask him, “Who are you?” They knew it was the Lord. Jesus came and took the bread and gave it to them, and so with the fish. This was now the third time that Jesus was revealed to the disciples after he was raised from the dead.
The Gospel of the Lord.
TODAY’S REFLECTION
The message of the Resurrection generates faith in anyone who is ready to be converted and to change for the better, but it provokes a hostile reaction in those who are against it. We need to be receptive to the message of the Resurrection and open to the grace of the Risen Lord till it fills us with life and light and transforms us. The closeness of Christ infuses power into the Church and guides her beyond mere human possibilities. The fatigue of men, often hard and futile, becomes light and fruitful, as in the case of Peter and his companions who, at the word of the Lord, cast the net and caught an abundance of fish. Each one of us, at the trust moments of intimacy and grace, when in the light of his presence open our hearts to receive his love, knows very well “it is the Lord!”
PERSONAL DEVOTIONAL
Ask the Lord to bless those who persecute you - yes, ask him to bless not to curse. Romans 12: 14
- O Lord, help me to become more and more like you every day in all that I do.
- Lord, give me the grace to forgive those that has wronged me and the grace also to forget.
Let Us Pray,
Dear Lord, grant me the endless desire to study your word. The wisdom and understanding to get the message. The grace to put it into practice daily in every aspect of my life so that I may yield the desired fruits expected of me in Jesus name. Amen.
Saturday April 15, 2023
Octave of Easter
Vestment: White
Today’s Rosary: The Joyful Mysteries
Entrance Antiphon Ps 105:43
The Lord brought out his people with joy, his chosen ones with shouts of rejoicing, alleluia.
The Gloria in excels is (Glory to God in the highest) is said.
Collect
O God, who by the abundance of your grace give increase to the peoples who believe in you, look with favour on those you have chosen and clothe with blessed immortality those reborn through the Sacrament of Baptism. Through our Lord...
-FIRST READING-
“We cannot but speak of what we have seen and heard.”
A reading from the Acts of the Apostles Acts 4:13-21
In those days: When the rulers and elders and scribes saw the boldness of Peter and John, and perceived that they were uneducated, common men, they wondered; and they recognised that they had been with Jesus. But seeing the man that had been healed standing beside them, they had nothing to say in opposition. But when they had commanded them to go aside out of the council, they conferred with one another, saying, “What shall we do with these men? For that a notable sign has been performed through them is manifest to all the inhabitants of Jerusalem, and we cannot deny it. But in order that it may spread no further among the people, let us warn them to speak no more to any one in this name.” So they called them and charged them not to speak or teach at all in the name of Jesus. But Peter and John answered them, “Whether it is right in the sight of God to listen to you rather than to God, you must judge; for we cannot but speak of what we have seen and heard.” And when they had further threatened them, they let them go, finding no way to punish them, because of the people; for all men praised God for what had happened.
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Ps 118:1 and 14-15ab.15c-18.19-21 (R. 21a)
Or: Alleluia.
Give praise to the Lord, for he is good;
his mercy endures forever.
The Lord is my strength and my song;
he was my saviour.
There are shouts of joy and salvation
in the tents of the just. R.
“The Lord’s right hand has done mighty deeds;
his right hand is exalted.
The Lord’s right hand has done mighty deeds.”
I shall not die, I shall live
and recount the deeds of the Lord.
The Lord punished me, punished me severely,
but did not hand me over to death. R.
Open to me the gates of justice:
I will enter and thank the Lord.
This is the Lord’s own gate,
where the just enter.
I will thank you, for you have answered,
and you are my saviour. R
ALLELUIA Psalm118:24
Alleluia. This is the day the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it. Alleluia.
-GOSPEL-
“Go into all the world and preach the Gospel.”
A reading from the holy Gospel according to Mark Mark 16:9-15
When Jesus rose early on the first day of the week, he appeared first to Mary Magdalene, from whom he had cast out seven demons. She went and told those who had been with him, as they mourned and wept. But when they heard that he was alive and had been seen by her, they would not believe it. After this he appeared in another form to two of them, as they were walking into the country. And they went back and told the rest, but they did not believe them. Afterwards he appeared to the Eleven themselves as they sat at table; and he upbraided them for their unbelief and hardness of heart, because they had not believed those who saw him after he had risen. And he said to them, “Go into all the world and preach the gospel to the whole creation.”
The Gospel of the Lord.
TODAY’S REFLECTION
The Risen Lord first appeared to Mary Magdalene, then he appeared to two disciples, but their testimony was not believed. He now appears to the college of Apostles and reproves them for their disbelief and hardness of heart. This is evidence enough that the Resurrection is not a product of the imagination. The first attitude of the missionary-of each one of us-is the awareness of his or her inadequacy in bringing to others the Good News of salvation, because none of us is free from hardness of heart and smallness of faith. But our participation in the Easter mystery makes it possible for us to proclaim the Gospel.
PERSONAL DEVOTIONAL
Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says. Anyone who listens to the word but does not do what it says is like someone who looks at his face in a mirror and, after looking at himself, goes away and immediately forgets what he looks like. James 1:22-24
- O Lord, help me not to be only carrier of the word of God, but also the doer of the word of God.
- Pray that the word of God will begin to burn in our hearts as we hear it daily.
- Lord banish ignorance of the word of God in my life.
Let Us Pray
I come before thy throne of grace, seeking your divine guidance and direction concerning my life this day. Give me the courage to trust you and to follow the path of faith and righteousness as you take the lead as my shepherd. Lord Jesus my shepherd, as I walk in this journey of life, be my Rock and Fortress, show me favour and guide me in my entire affairs, even in the midst of storm let your hand hold me firm to yourself preserve me in my going out and my coming in, O Angels and Saints of God grant me your fraternal assistance that I may persevere in following the footsteps of Jesus our Lord and Shepherd both now and forever – Amen
Sunday April 16, 2023
SECOND SUNDAY OF EASTER
DIVINE MERCY SUNDAY
Office: Psalter Week 2. Te Deum
Mass prop. Gloria, Creed. Preface of Easter I
Vestment: White
Today’s Rosary: The Glorious Mysteries
Vespers II of the 2nd Sunday of Easter
THEME OF THE SUNDAY: “Blessed Are Those Who Have Not Seen.”
These words of the Risen Lord are addressed to all disciples. We meet the Risen Lord in the Sunday gathering of the community. This is the theme of the Gospel which links up with the second reading, particularly the last phrase. If we cannot see the Risen Lord, there is however something else we can see: the community which, through its life, is evidence that Christ is alive and with us (first reading).
ENTRANCE ANTIPHON
Like newborn infants, you must long for the pure, spiritual milk, that in him you may grow to salvation, alleluia.
COLLECT
God of everlasting mercy, who, in the recurrence of the paschal feast kindle the faith of the people you have made your own, increase, we pray, the grace you have bestowed, that all may grasp and rightly understand in what font they have been washed, by whose Spirit they have been reborn, by whose Blood they have been redeemed. Through our Lord…
-FIRST READING-
“All who believed were together and had all things in common.”
A reading from the Acts of the Apostles (Acts 2:42-47)
[The brethren] held steadfastly to the apostles’ teaching and fellowship, to the breaking of the bread and to the prayers. And fear came upon every soul; and many wonders and signs were done through the apostles. And all who believed were together and had all things in common; and they sold their possessions and goods and distributed them to all, as any had need. And day by day, attending the temple together and breaking bread in their homes, they partook of food with glad and generous hearts, praising God and having favour with all the people. And the Lord added to their number day by day those who were being saved.
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Psalm 118:2-4. 13—15ab.22-24 (R. 1)
R/. Give praise to the Lord, for he is good; his mercy endures forever.
Or: Alleluia.
Let the house of Israel say,
“His mercy endures forever.”
Let the house of Aaron say,
“His mercy endures forever.”
Let those who fear the Lord say,
“His mercy endures forever.” R/.
I was thrust down, thrust down and falling,
but the Lord was my helper.
The Lord is my strength and.my song; he was my saviour.
There are shouts of joy and salvation
in the tents of the just. R/.
R/. Give praise to the Lord, for he is good; his mercy endures forever.
Or: Alleluia.
The stone that the builders rejected
has become the cornerstone.
By the Lord has this been done,
a marvel in our eyes.
This is the day the Lord has made;
let us rejoice in it and be glad. R/.
-SECOND READING-
“We have been born anew to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead.”
A reading from the first Letter of Saint Peter (1 Peter 1:3-9)
Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! By his great mercy we have been born anew to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, and to an inheritance which is imperishable, undefiled, and unfading, kept in heaven for you, who by God’s power are guarded through faith for a salvation ready to be revealed in the last time. In this you rejoice, though now for a little while you may have to suffer various trials, so that the genuineness of your faith, more precious than gold which though perishable is tested by fire, may redound to praise and glory and honour at the revelation of Jesus Christ. Without having seen him you love him; though you do not now see him you believe in him and rejoice with unutterable and exalted joy. As the outcome of your faith you obtain the salvation of your souls.
The word of the Lord.
ALLELUIA John 20:29
Alleluia. You believed, Thomas, because you have seen me, says the Lord; blessed are those who have not seen and yet believe. Alleluia.
-GOSPEL-
“Eight days later Jesus came.”
* A reading from the holy Gospel according to John (John 20: 19-31)
On the evening of that day, the first day of the week, the doors being shut where the disciples were, for fear of the Jews, Jesus came and stood among them and said to them, “Peace be with you.” When he had said this, he showed them his hands and his side. Then the disciples were glad when they saw the Lord. Jesus said to them again, “Peace be with you. As the Father has sent me, even so I send you.” And when he had said this, he breathed on them, and said to them, “Receive the Holy Spirit. If you forgive the sins of any, they are forgiven; if you retain the sins of any, they are retained.” Now Thomas, one of the Twelve, called the Twin, was not with them when Jesus came. So the other disciples told him, “We have seen the Lord.” But he said to them, “Unless I see in his hands the print of the nails, and place my finger in the mark of the nails, and place my hand in his side, I will not believe.” Eight days later, his disciples were again in the house, and Thomas was with them. The doors were shut, but Jesus came and stood among them, and said, “Peace be with you.” Then he said to Thomas, “Put your finger here, and see my hands; and put out your hand, and place it in my side; do not be faithless, but believing.” Thomas answered him, “My Lord and my God!” Jesus said to him, “You have believed because you have seen me. Blessed are those who have not seen and yet believe.” Now Jesus did many other signs in the presence of the disciples, which are not written in this book; but these are written that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and that believing you may have life in his name.
The Gospel of the Lord.
PRAYER OF THE FAITHFUL
Celebrant:
We celebrate today the depth of God’s mercy shown in the death and Resurrection of his Son, our Lord Jesus Christ. Let us ask for the grace that, in our day to day lives, we may be a true reflection of God’s boundless mercy.
FOR THE LEADERS OF THE CHURCH: that they may be filled with the grace to faithfully reconcile the world to Christ, the merciful lord, through the preaching of the word and the celebration of the sacraments. Let us pray to the Lord.
FOR OUR CIVIL LEADERS: that, moved by God’s mercy to all, they may work towards ensuring the prisoners are treated with justice and with respect for their human dignity. Let us pray to the Lord.
FOR THOSE SUFFERING FROM UNBELIEF: that, just like Thomas, they may be enlightened through their encounter with the risen Lord both in his word and in Christian witness. Let us pray to the Lord.
FOR THE SICK AND BEREAVED MEMBERS OF OUR COMMUNITY: that, through our care and support for them, they may experience the love and mercy of God and the inner strength to face their trying situation. Let us pray to the Lord.
FOR OTHER INTENTIONS: (the sick, church projects or other activities).
FOR THE DEAD: especially those of our parish community and family members: that they may find eternal rest with the Lord. Let us pray to the Lord.
We pray in silence for our private intentions.
Celebrant:
Lord our God, you are good and your mercy endures forever. Hear our prayers and grant that, through our acts of compassion, we may share your unfathomable mercy with our brothers and sisters. Through Christ our Lord.
R/. Amen.
PERSONAL DEVOTIONAL
Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. Philippians 4:6
- Tell Jesus to calm every turbulent waters in your life and family.
- Tell Jesus to refresh your life.
Let Us Pray,
O Christ Jesus, when all is darkness, and we feel our weakness and helplessness, give us to have perfect trust in your protecting love and strengthening power, so that nothing may frighten or worry us, for, living close to you, we shall see your hand, your purpose, your will through all things.
Monday April 17, 2023
2nd Week of Easter
Office: Psalter Week 2
Mass of the day, Preface of Easter
Vestment: White
Today’s Rosary: The Joyful Mysteries
ENTRANCE ANT.
Christ, having risen from the dead, dies now no more; death will no longer have dominion over him, alleluia
COLLECT
Grant, we pray, almighty God, that we who have been renewed by paschal remedies, transcending the likeness of our earthly parentage, may be transformed in the image of our heavenly maker. Through our Lord…
-FIRST READING-
“When they had prayed, they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and spoke the word of God with boldness.”
A reading from the Acts of the Apostles (Acts 4:23-31)
In those days: when Peter and John were released they went to their friends and reported what the chief priests and the elders had said to them. And when they heard it, they lifted their voices together to God and said, “Sovereign Lord, who made the heaven and the earth and the sea and everything in them, who by the mouth of our father David, your servant, said by the Holy Spirit, ‘why did the Gentiles rage, and the peoples imagine vain things? The kings of the earth set themselves in array, and the rulers were gathered together, against the Lord and against his Anointed’ –for truly in this city there were gathered together against your holy servant Jesus, whom you anointed, both Herod and Pontius Pilate with the Gentiles and the peoples of Israel, to do whatever your hand and your plan had predestined to take place. And now, Lord, look upon their threats, and grant to your servants to speak your word with all boldness, while you stretch out your hand to heal, and signs and wonders are performed through the name of your Holy servant Jesus.” And when they had prayed, the place in which they were gathered together was shaken; and they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and spoke the word of God with boldness.
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Psalm 2:1-3. 4-6.7-9 (R. see 12d)
R/. Blessed are all who trust in you, O Lord.
Or: Alleluia
Why do the nations conspire, and the peoples plot in vain?
They arise, the kings of the earth;
Princes plot against the Lord and his Anointed.
“Let us burst asunder their fetters.
Let us cast off from us their chains.” R/.
He who sits in the heavens laughs;
The Lord derides and mocks them.
Then he will speak in his anger,
His rage will strike them with terror.
“It is I who have appointed my king
On Sion, my holy mountain.” R/.
R/. Blessed are all who trust in you, O Lord.
Or: Alleluia
I will announce the decree of the Lord:
The Lord said to me, “you are my Son.
It is I who have begotten you this day.
Ask of me and I will give you
the nations as your inheritance,
and the ends of the earth as your possession.
With a rod of iron you will rule them;
like a potter’s jar you will shatter them.” R/.
ALLELUIA Colossians 3:1
Alleluia. If then you have been raised with Christ, seek the things that are above, where Christ is seated at the right hand of God. Alleluia.
-GOSPEL-
“Unless one is born of water and the Spirit, he cannot enter the kingdom of God.”
A reading from the holy Gospel according to John (John 3:1-8)
There was a man of the Pharisees, named Nicodemus, a ruler of the Jews. This man came to Jesus by night and said to him, “Rabbi, we know that you are a teacher come from God; for no one can do these signs that you do, unless God is with him.” Jesus answered him, “Truly, truly I say to you, unless one is born anew, he cannot see the kingdom of God.” Nicodemus said to him, “How can a man be born when he is old? Can he enter a second time into his mother’s womb and be born?” Jesus answered, “Truly, truly, I say to you, unless one is born of water and the Spirit, he cannot enter the kingdom of God. That which is born of the flesh is flesh, and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit. Do not marvel that I said to you, ‘You must be born anew.’ The wind blows where it wills, and you hear the sound of it, but you do not know where it comes from or where it goes; so it is with every one who is born of the Spirit.”
The Gospel of the Lord.
Today's Reflection
The text of today’s Gospel contains the dialogue between Jesus and Nicodemus, it invites us to reflect on two related points: first, the attitude of Nicodemus when he comes to Jesus. His opening “we know” indicates that he has come with preconceived notions and not with openness. It also indicates that he does not need to learn anything. This is a dangerous attitude for one to have. The second related point is the questions Nicodemus asks. His “we know” soon takes the form of “How can?”. He is unwilling to let God be God. His categories are all well-defined and no amount of explanation will break through them. Sadly, he starts with “How can” and ends with the same words. Have you, like Nicodemus, set limits on what God can and cannot do? Will you open yourself to “mystery” today?
Blessing for the New Week
For the gift of this new day and this new week we say thank you Lord. For the gift of our parents, children, brothers, sisters, nephews, cousins and friends we say thank you Lord. For the gift of our work, study, business and faith in Jesus Christ we say thank you Lord.
Lord, we are about to step out for this day and we do not know what it has in store for us, but we place it in your hands so that you will see us through and grant us your blessings. May you oh Lord be our Shepherd (Psalm 23) and may your goodness and mercy follow us throughout this week and all the days of our life. In your name we decree and declare that it shall be a favourable week for us. What ever may come our way, we shall be victorious and all glory will be to your name.
Dear friend, go out with hope today. Do not be afraid. Put in your best in what you do and you will succeed. I pray for your intention in the mass I celebrate this day.
Do your best, believe in God and he will make your effort to be fruitful, May you shine out brightly as the light so that the darkness of our world will be dispelled. Amen.
Meditation: Luke 8:16-18
Personal Devotional
- Let the power in the Blood of Jesus separate me from the sins of my ancestors, in the name of Jesus.
- I renounce any evil dedication placed upon my life, in Jesus’ name.
Let Us Pray
Dear Lord, grant me the endless desire to study your word. The wisdom and understanding to get the message. The grace to put it into practice daily in every aspect of my life so that I may yield the desired fruits expected of me in Jesus name. Amen.
Tuesday April 18, 2023
2nd Week of Easter
Office: Psalter Week 2
Mass of the day, Preface of Easter
Vestment: White
Today’s Rosary: The Sorrowful Mysteries
ENTRANCE ANTIPHON RV 19:7.6
Let us rejoice and be glad and give glory to God, for the Lord our God the Almighty reigns, alleluia.
COLLECT
Enable us, we pray, almighty God, to proclaim the power of the risen Lord, that we who have received the pledge of his gift, may come to possess all he gives when it is fully revealed. Through our Lord...
-FIRST READING-
“One heart and soul.”
A reading from the Acts of the Apostles Acts 4: 32-37
The company of those who believed were of one heart and soul, and no one said that any of the things which he possessed was his own, but they had everything in common. And with great power the apostles gave their testimony to the resurrection of the Lord Jesus, and great grace was upon them all. There was not any one needy among them, for as many as were possessors of lands or houses sold them, and brought the proceeds of what was sold and laid it at the apostles’ feet; and distribution was made to each as any had need. Thus Joseph who was surnamed by the apostles Barnabas (which means, Son of encouragement), a Levite, a native of Cyprus, sold a field which belonged to him, and brought the money and laid it at the apostles’ feet.
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Psalm 93:1abc.ie-2.5 (R. 1a)
R/. The Lord is king, with majesty enrobed.
Or: Alleluia.
The Lord is king, with majesty enrobed.
The Lord has robed himself with might;
he has girded himself with power. R/.
The world you made firm, not to be moved;
your throne has stood firm from of old.
From all eternity, O Lord, you are. R/.
Truly your decrees are to be trusted.
Holiness is fitting to your house,
O Lord, until the end of time. R/.
ALLELUIA John 3:15
Alleluia. The Son of man must be lifted up, that whoever believes in him may have eternal life. Alleluia.
-GOSPEL-
“No one has ascended into heaven but he who descended from heaven, the Son of man.”
A reading from the holy Gospel according to John (John 3:7b-15)
At that time: Jesus said to Nicodemus, “You must be born anew. The wind blows where it wills, and you hear the sound of it, but you do not know where it comes from or where it goes; so it is with every one who is born of the Spirit.” Nicodemus said to him, “How can this be?” Jesus answered him, “Are you a teacher of Israel, and yet you do not understand this? Truly, truly, I say to you, we speak of what we know, and bear witness to what we have seen; but you do not receive our testimony. If I have told you earthly things and you do not believe, how can you believe if I tell you heavenly things? No one has ascended into heaven but he who descended from heaven, the Son of man. And as Moses lifted up the serpent in the wilderness, so must the Son of man be lifted up, that whoever believes in him may have eternal life.”
The Gospel of the Lord.
TODAY’S REFLECTION
Jesus teaches Nicodemus that, as the prophets had said, the messianic era should experience an innovation effusion of the Spirit. Jesus places things of the earth against things of heaven. Things of earth are divine truths concerning the human being things of heaven recall the glorification of Jesus. If what he has revealed about human beings is not believed, what he is going to reveal about the Son of Man will be much less believed. But only he who has descended from heaven can speak about heavenly realities. To be saved it is not enough to see the signs of Christ; it is necessary to enter into the mystery of his Death and Resurrection. The Cross is the means of salvation because it unites heaven and earth the divine and the human realities of Christ.
PERSONAL DEVOTIONAL
- Pray for those who have heard the word but have refused to repent; that God would open their hearts to the wisdom of the Gospel of light.
- Pray for our brothers and sisters who are backsliding in the faith.
- Pray for the strengthening of new converts to Christianity and for those facing persecutions because of their faith in Christ, especially Christians in most parts of the world.
Let Us Pray
Prayer of St. Ignatius de Loyola
O Christ Jesus, when all is darkness, and we feel our weakness and helplessness, give us to have perfect trust in your protecting love and strengthening power, so that nothing may frighten or worry us, for, living close to you, we shall see your hand, your purpose, your will through all things.
Wednesday April 19, 2023
2nd Week of Easter
Office: Psalter Week 2
Mass of the day, Preface of Easter
Vestment: White
Today’s Rosary: The Glorious Mysteries
ENTRANCE ANTIPHON CF. PS 18: 50; 22:23
I will praise you, Lord, among the nations; I will tell of your name to my kin, alleluia.
COLLECT
As we recall year by year the mysteries by which, through the restoration of its original dignity, human nature has received the hope of rising again, we earnestly beseech your mercy, Lord, that what we celebrate in faith we may possess in unending love. Through our Lord...
-FIRST READING-
“The men whom you put in prison are standing in the temple and teaching the people.”
A reading from the Acts of the Apostles (Acts 5: 17-26)
In those days: The high priest rose up and all who were with him, that is, the party of the Sadducees, and filled with jealousy they arrested the apostles and put them in the common prison. But at night an angel of the Lord opened the prison doors and brought them out and said, “Go and stand in the temple and speak to the people all the words of this Life.” And when they heard this, they entered the temple at daybreak and taught. Now the high priest came and those who were with him and called together the council and all the senate of Israel, and sent to the prison to have them brought. But when the officers came, they did not find them in the prison, and they returned and reported, “We found the prison securely locked and the sentries standing at the doors, but when we opened it we found no one inside.” Now when the captain of the temple and the chief priests heard these words, they were much perplexed about them, wondering what this would come to. And some one came and told them, “The men whom you put in prison are standing in the temple and teaching the people.” Then the captain with the officers went and brought them, but without violence, for they were afraid of being stoned by the people.
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Psalm 34:2-3.4-5.6-7.8-9 (R. 7a)
R/. The lowly one called, and the Lord heard him.
Or: Alleluia.
I will bless the Lord at all times,
praise of him is always in my mouth.
In the Lord my soul shall make its boast;
the humble shall hear and be glad. R/.
Glorify the Lord with me;
together let us praise his name.
I sought the Lord, and he answered me;
from all my terrors he set me free. R/.
R/. The lowly one called, and the Lord heard him.
Or: Alleluia.
Look towards him and be radiant;
let your faces not be abashed.
This lowly one called; the Lord heard,
and rescued him from all his distress. R/.
The angel of the Lord is encamped
around those who fear him, to rescue them.
Taste and see that the Lord is good.
Blessed the man who seeks refuge in him. R/.
ALLELUIA John 3 : 16
Alleluia. God so loved the world that he gave his only-begotten Son; that whoever believes in him should have eternal life. Alleluia.
-GOSPEL-
“God sent the Son into the world that the world might be saved through him.”
A reading from the holy Gospel according to John (John 3: 16-21)
Jesus said to Nicodemus, “God so loved the world that he gave his only-begotten Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life. For God sent the Son into the world, not to condemn the world, but that the world might be saved through him. He who believes in him is not condemned; he who does not believe is condemned already, because he has not believed in the name of the only-begotten Son of God. And this is the judgement, that the light has come into the world, and men loved darkness rather than light, because their deeds were evil. For every one who does evil hates the light, and does not come to the light, lest his deeds should be exposed. But he who does what is true comes to the light, that it may be clearly seen that his deeds have been wrought in God.”
The Gospel of the Lord.
Today's Reflection
He who is open to faith in the Son of God obtains salvation. He who refuses to believe and to love remains in death. He who does what is right joyfully enters into the forgiving, liberating and saving light of Christ. Opposition to Christ who is light is darkness and evil; staying faithful to him is light and goodness and truth. Christ demands a decision and a choice in clear terms-either to accept him or to reject him. Acceptance becomes a progressive reception of grace and power; by rejection the person gets imprisoned in deaf and blind hostility.
Personal Devotional
- Repent and ask for mercy for the times you have fallen short of the demands of discipleship.
- My sweet Jesus, it was my sins that condemned you to die, I beseech you, by the merits of your death, to assist my soul on its journey to eternity.
- I love you, Jesus, my Love, above all things. I repent with my whole heart for having offended you. Never permit me to separate myself from you again. Grant that I may love you always; and then do with me as you will.
Let Us Pray
Prayers of St. Thomas More
I wish, my Lord to receive you with the purity, humility and devotion with which your Most Holy Mother received you, with the spirit and fervor of the saints. Come Lord Jesus.
Give me, good Lord, a longing to be with you….. Give me warmth, delight and quickness in thinking upon you. And give me your grace to long for your holy sacraments, and specially to rejoice in the presence of your very blessed body, Sweet Saviour Christ, in the Holy Sacrament for the altar.
Thursday April 20, 2023
2nd Week of Easter
Office: Psalter Week 2
Mass of the day, Preface of Easter
Vestment: White
Today’s Rosary: The Luminous Mysteries
ENTRANCE ANTIPHON CF. PS 68:8-9.20
O God, when you went forth before your people, marching with them and living among them, the earth trembled, heavens poured own rain, alleluia.
COLLECT
O God, who for the salvation of the world brought about the paschal sacrifice, be favourable to the supplications of your people, so that Christ our High Priest, interceding on our behalf, may by his likeness to ourselves bring us reconciliation, and by his equality with you free us from our sins. Through our Lord...
-FIRST READING-
“We are witnesses of these things, and so is the Holy Spirit.”
A reading from the Acts of the Apostles Acts (Acts 5:27-33)
In those days: When the officers had brought the apostles, they set them before the council. And the high priest questioned them, saying, “We strictly charged you not to teach in this name, yet here you have filled Jerusalem with your teaching and you intend to bring this man’s blood upon us.” But Peter and the apostles answered, “We must obey God rather than men. The God of our fathers raised Jesus whom you killed by hanging him on a tree. God exalted him at his right hand as Leader and Saviour, to give repentance to Israel and forgiveness of sins. And we are witnesses of these things, and so is the Holy Spirit whom God has given to those who obey him.” When they heard this they were enraged and wanted to kill them.
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Ps 34:2 and 9, 17-18.19-20 (R. see 7a)
R/. The lowly one called, and the Lord heard him.
Or: Alleluia.
I will bless the Lord at all times,
praise of him is always in my mouth.
Taste and see that the Lord is good.
Blessed the man who seeks refuge in him. R/.
The Lord turns his face against the wicked
to destroy their remembrance from the earth.
When the just cry out, the Lord hears,
and rescues them in all their distress. R/.
R/. The lowly one called, and the Lord heard him.
Or: Alleluia.
The Lord is close to the broken-hearted;
those whose spirit is crushed he will save.
Many are the trials of the just man,
but from them all the Lord will rescue him. R/.
ALLELUIA John 20:29
Alleluia. You believed, Thomas, because you have seen me, says the Lord; blessed are those who have not seen and yet believe. Alleluia.
-GOSPEL-
“The Father loves the Son, and has given all things into his hand. ”
A reading from the holy Gospel according to John (John 3:31-36)
Jesus said to Nicodemus, “He who comes from above is above all; he who is of the earth belongs to the earth, and of the earth he speaks; he who comes from heaven is above all. He bears witness to what he has seen and heard, yet no one receives his testimony; he who receives his testimony sets his seal to this, that God is true. For he whom God has sent utters the words of God, for it is not by measure that he gives the Spirit; the Father loves the Son, and has given all things into his hand. He who believes in the Son has eternal life; he who does not obey the Son shall not see life, but the wrath of God rests upon him.”
The Gospel of the Lord.
Today's Reflection
Salvation if faith in the Son whom the Father loves and to whom he has given everything. God has sent him into the world and he pronounces the words of God and gives the Spirit to all who accept his testimony. And they in turn, in union with Christ, bear witness to the reality of Christ as head and saviour. This process does not take place through reflection, maturation or human experience; it is solely the work of the Holy Spirit. It is the Spirit who offers the gift of faith, and faith is listening and obedient response to the One who calls. Listening to this voice and responding to it means shifting the centre of our life from ourselves to Christ, placing ourselves in him and understanding ourselves in reference to Christ and above all taking him as the sole criterion of our life and values.
Personal Devotional
- Give me the will-power to stand for you always.
- O Lord, endear my spirit with the Joy of serving you always my Lord and my God.
- Pray for all children of God who have failed in their vow of holiness that they will return to the Lord and renew their vows of holiness.
Let Us Pray
Watch, dear Lord, with those who wake, or watch, or weep tonight, and let your angels protect those who sleep. Tend the sick. Refresh the weary. Sustain the dying. Calm the suffering. Pity the distressed. We ask this for the sake of your love. Lord Jesus, our Saviour, let us come to you. Our hearts are cold; Lord, warm them with selfless love. Our hearts are sinful; cleanse them with your precious blood. Our hearts are empty; fill them with your divine presence, Lord Jesus, our hearts are yours; possess them always and only for yourself.
Friday April 21, 2023
ST ANSELM OF CANTERBURY, B. D. (Opt. Mem.)
Office: Psalter Week 2
Mass of the day or Memorial
Preface of Easter
Vestment: White
Today’s Rosary: The Sorrowful Mysteries
ENTRANCE ANTI. RV 5 :9- 10
You have redeemed us, Lord, by your blood, from every tribe and tongue and people and nation, and have made us a kingdom and priests for our God, alleluia.
COLLECT
O God, hope and light of the sincere, we humbly entreat you to dispose our hearts to offer you worthy prayer and ever to extol you by dutiful proclamation of your praise. Through our Lord...
-FIRST READING-
“They left rejoicing that they were counted worthy to suffer dishonor for the name.”
A reading from the Acts of the Apostles (Acts 5 :34-42)
In those days: A Pharisee in the council named Gamaliel, a teacher of the law, held in honour by all the people, stood up and ordered the apostles to be put outside for a while. And he said to them, “Men of Israel, take care what you do with these men. For before these days Theudas arose, claiming to be somebody, and a number of men, about four hundred, joined him; but he was slain and all who followed him were dispersed and came to nothing. After him Judas the Galilean arose in the days of the census and drew away some of the people after him; he also perished, and all who followed him were scattered. So in the present case I tell you, keep away from these men and let them alone; for if this plan or this undertaking is of men, it will fail; but if it is of God, you will not be able to overthrow them. You might even be found opposing God!” So they took his advice, and when they had called in the apostles, they beat them and charged them not to speak in the name of Jesus, and let them go. Then they left the presence of the council, rejoicing that they were counted worthy to suffer dishonour for the name. And every day in the temple and at home they did not cease teaching and preaching Jesus as the Christ.
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Psalm 27: 1.4. 13- 14 (4ac)
R/. There is one thing I ask of the Lord, to live in the house of the Lord.
Or: Alleluia.
The Lord is my light and my salvation;
whom shall I fear?
The Lord is the stronghold of my life;
whom should I dread? R/.
There is one thing I ask of the Lord,
only this do I seek:
to live in the house of the Lord
all the days of my life,
to gaze on the beauty of the Lord,
to inquire at his temple. R/.
R/. There is one thing I ask of the Lord, to live in the house of the Lord.
Or: Alleluia.
I believe I shall see the Lord’s goodness
in the land of the living.
Wait for the Lord; be strong;
be stouthearted, and wait for the Lord! R/.
ALLELUIA Matthew 4:4b
Alleluia. Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceeds from the mouth of God. Alleluia.
-GOSPEL-
He distributed to those who were seated as much as they wanted.
A reading from the holy Gospel according to John (John 6: 1- 15)
At that time: Jesus went to the other side of the Sea of Galilee, which is the Sea of Tiberias. And a multitude followed him, because they saw the signs which he did on those who were diseased. Jesus went up into the hills, and there sat down with his disciples. Now the Passover, the feast of the Jews, was at hand. Lifting up his eyes, then, and seeing that a multitude was coming to him, Jesus said to Philip, “How are we to buy bread, so that these people may eat?” This he said to test him, for he himself knew what he would do. Philip answered him, “Two hundred denarii would not buy enough bread for each of them to get a little.” One of his disciples, Andrew, Simon Peter’s brother, said to him, “There is a lad here who has five barley loaves and two fish; but what are they among so many?” Jesus said, “Make the people sit down.” Now there was much grass in the place; so the men sat down, in number about five thousand. Jesus then took the loaves, and when he had given thanks, he distributed them to those who were seated; so also the fish, as much as they wanted. And when they had eaten their fill, he told his disciples, “Gather up the fragments left over, that nothing may be lost.” So they gathered them up and filled twelve baskets with fragments from the five barley loaves, left by those who had eaten. When the people saw the sign which he had done, they said, “This is indeed the prophet who is to come into the world!” Perceiving then that they were about to come and take him by force to make him king, Jesus withdrew again to the hills by himself.
The Gospel of the Lord.
Today's Reflection
The multiplication of bread and fish is a preparation for the gift which God gives in Christ at the Eucharistic banquet. The Paschal feast is near; the atmosphere is one of expectation, wonder and peace. The people had come a long way to listen to Jesus; they needed rest and food. All the suffering, pain and anguish of our life’s journey seem to disappear in the serene presence and peace of Christ. He knows what he is going to do. He takes bread and fish, offers them to the Father and gives thanks. Thus nature is brought back to the Creator; human work is referred to God who grants him to do it. Our efforts and our fatigue are offered to the love of God who grants him to do it. Our efforts and our fatigue are offered to the love of God. Our little offering is multiplied and returned to us; our fatigue is lightened. The bread Jesus offers is a sign and guarantee of eternity.
Personal Devotional
- Thank the Lord for his invitation to you.
- Tell God to forgive those times you ignored His invitation through your life style.
- Tell God to help you overcome every obstacle that will prevent you from attending the feast.
- Lord, lead me to people I can invite into full life with you by the power of your love. Amen.
Let Us Pray
Prayer to Saint Michael
St. Michael, the Archangel, defend us in the day of battle; be our safeguard against the wickedness and snares of the devil. May God rebuke him, we humbly pray and do you, O Prince of the heavenly host, by the power of God, cast into hell Satan and all the other evil spirits who prowl through the world seeking the ruin of souls. Amen.
Saturday April 22, 2023
2nd Week of Easter
Office: Psalter Week 2
Mass of the day, Preface of Easter
Vestment: White
Today’s Rosary: The Joyful Mysteries
Vespers I of the 3rd Sunday of Easter
ENTRANCE ANTIPHON CF. 1 PT 2:9
O chosen people, proclaim the mighty works of him, who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light, alleluia.
COLLECT
Set aside, O Lord, the bond of sentence written for us by the law of sin, which in the paschal mystery you canceled through the Resurrection of Christ your Son. Who lives and reigns with you...
Or:
O God, who willed that through the paschal mysteries the gates of mercy should stand open for your faithful, look upon us and have mercy, that as we follow, by your gift, the way you desire for us, so may we never stray from the paths of life. Through our Lord...
-FIRST READING-
They picked out seven men full of the Holy Spirit.
A reading from the Acts of the Apostles (Acts 6: 1-7)
In these days when the disciples were increasing in number, the Hellenists murmured against the Hebrews because their widows were neglected in the daily distribution. And the Twelve summoned the body of the disciples and said, “It is not right that we should give up preaching the word of God to serve tables. Therefore, brethren, pick out from among you seven men of good repute, full of the Spirit and of wisdom, whom we may appoint to this duty. But we will devote ourselves to prayer and to the ministry of the word.” And what they said pleased the whole multitude, and they chose Stephen, a man full of faith and of the Holy Spirit, and Philip, and Prochorus, and Nicanor, and Timon, and Parmenas, and Nicolaus, a proselyte of Antioch. These they set before the apostles, and they prayed and laid their hands upon them. And the word of God increased; and the number of the disciples multiplied greatly in Jerusalem, and a great many of the priests were obedient to the faith.
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Psalm 33:1-2.4-5. 18-19 (R. 22)
R/. May your merciful love be upon us, as we hope in you, O Lord
Or: Alleluia.
Ring out your joy to the Lord, O you just;
for praise is fitting for the upright.
Give thanks to the Lord upon the harp;
with a ten-stringed lute sing him songs. R/.
For the word of the Lord is faithful,
and all his works to be trusted.
The Lord loves justice and right,
and his merciful love fills the earth. R/.
R/. May your merciful love be upon us, as we hope in you, O Lord
Or: Alleluia.
Yes, the Lord’s eyes are on those who fear him,
who hope in his merciful love,
to rescue their souls from death,
to keep them alive in famine. R/.
ALLELUIA
Alleluia. Christ is risen, who created all things and has had mercy on the human race. Alleluia.
-GOSPEL-
“They saw Jesus walking on the sea.”
A reading from the holy Gospel according to John 6: 16-21
When evening came, the disciples of Jesus went down to the sea, got into a boat, and started across the sea to Capemaum. It was now dark, and Jesus had not yet come to them. The sea rose because a strong wind was blowing. When they had rowed about three or four miles, they saw Jesus walking on the sea and drawing near to the boat. They were frightened, but he said to them, “It is I; do not be afraid.” Then they were glad to take him into the boat, and immediately the boat was at the land to which they were going.
The Gospel of the Lord.
Today's Reflection
Bearing false witness against a neighbour, a sin against charity, is an intrinsically evil act, victims of such evil should learn to bear it patiently with a loving trust in God, before whom nothing is hidden; especially in situations where the possibility of self-justification is remote or practically impossible. Human suffering becomes spiritually edifying when united with the suffering of Christ. At all times and in all situations we must learn to draw strength from the table of the lord. At the same time we must avoid the risk of seeking God only because of our needs. God made us for us to know him, to love him and to serve him; for these primary reasons we must seek him in addition to our personal needs.
Personal Devotional
- I thank you Almighty God for your word that is active and alive.
- Grant me your grace to consciously realise that you are the beginning and the end of all things and that you know my end from my beginning, hence, you know my troubles and worries.
- Help me to fully rely on you and not in my own competence anymore. Grant that I may put all my trust in you.
- Assist me to be more committed to doing your will every day of my life.
Let Us Pray
O my God, I am sorry and beg pardon for all my sins, and detest them above all things, because they have crucified my loving saviour Jesus Christ, and, most of all, because they offend your infinite goodness; and I firmly resolve, by the help of your grace, never to offend you again, and carefully to avoid the occasion of sin.
Sunday April 23, 2023
3RD SUNDAY OF EASTER
V1 -, R1-, R2-,
Office: Psalter Week 3, Te Deum
Mass prop., Gloria Creed
Preface of Easter
Vestment: White
Today’s Rosary: The Glorious Mysteries
Vespers II of the 3rd Sunday of Easter
THEME OF THE SUNDAY: They Recognized Him at the “Breaking of Bread.”
The announcer of the Word should stress the message that we too can meet the Risen Lord when we hear the word of God and take part in the “breaking of bread.” The first and the second reading draw our attention to the need to have recourse to the Scriptures if we want to understand what happened to Jesus and what happens to us every day.
ENTRANCE ANTIPHON
Cry out with joy to God, all the earth; O sing to the glory of his name. O render him glorious praise, alleluia.
The Gloria in excels is (Glory to God in the highest) is said.
COLLECT
May your people exult for ever, O God, in renewed youthfulness of spirit, so that rejoicing now in the restored glory of our adoption, we may look forward in confident hope to the rejoicing of the day of resurrection. Through our Lord.
-FIRST READING-
“It was not possible for him to be held by death.”
A reading from the Acts of the Apostles (Acts 2:14.22-33)
[On the day of Pentecost,] Peter, standing with the Eleven, lifted up his voice and said, “Men of Judea and all who dwell in Jerusalem, let this be known to you and give ear to my words. “Jesus of Nazareth, a man attested to you by God with mighty works and wonders and signs which God did through him in your midst, as you yourselves know — this Jesus, delivered up according to the definite plan and foreknowledge of God, you crucified and killed by the hands of lawless men. But God raised him up, having loosed the pangs of death, because it was not possible for him to be held by it. For David says concerning him, ‘I saw the Lord always before me, for he is at my right hand that I may not be shaken; therefore my heart was glad, and my tongue rejoiced; moreover my flesh will dwell in hope. For you will not abandon my soul to Hades, nor let your Holy One see corruption. You have made known to me the ways of life; you will make me full of gladness with your presence.”’ “Brethren, I may say to you confidently of the patriarch David that he both died and was buried, and his tomb is with us to this day. Being therefore a prophet, and knowing that God had sworn with an oath to him that he would set one of his descendants upon his throne, he foresaw and spoke of the resurrection of the Christ, that he was not abandoned to Hades, nor did his flesh see corruption. This Jesus God raised up, and of that we are all witnesses. Being therefore exalted at the right hand of God, and having received from the Father the promise of the Holy Spirit, he has poured out this which you see and hear.”
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Psalm 16:1-2a and 5.7-8.9-10.11 (R. 11a)
R/. Lord, you will show me the path of life.
Or: Alleluia.
Preserve me, O God, for in you I take refuge.
I say to the Lord, “You are my Lord.”
O Lord, it is you who are my portion and cup;
you yourself who secure my lot. R/.
I will bless the Lord who gives me counsel,
who even at night directs my heart.
I keep the Lord before me always;
with him at my right hand, I shall not be moved. R/.
R/. Lord, you will show me the path of life.
Or: Alleluia.
And so, my heart rejoices, my soul is glad;
even my flesh shall rest in hope.
For you will not abandon my soul to hell,
nor let your holy one see corruption. R/.
You will show me the path of life,
the fullness of joy in your presence,
at your right hand, bliss forever. R/.
-SECOND READING-
“You were ransomed with the precious blood of Christ, like that of a Lamb without blemish.”
A reading from the first Letter of Saint Peter (1 Peter 1:17-21)
Beloved: If you invoke as Father him who judges each one impartially according to his deeds, conduct yourselves with fear throughout the time of your exile. You know that you were ransomed from the futile ways inherited from your fathers, not with perishable things such as silver or gold, but with the precious blood of Christ, like that of a lamb without blemish or spot. He was destined before the foundation of the world but was made manifest at the end of the times for your sake. Through him you have confidence in God, who raised him from the dead and gave him glory, so that your faith and hope are in God.
The word of the Lord.
ALLELUIA Luke 24:32
Alleluia. Lord Jesus, open the Scriptures to us; make our hearts burn with love when you speak to us. Alleluia.
-GOSPEL-
“They recognised him in the breaking of the bread.”
A reading from the holy Gospel according to Luke (Luke 24: 13-35)
That very day [the first day of the week], two of the disciples of Jesus were going to a village named Emmaus, about seven miles from Jerusalem, and talking with each other about all these things that had happened. While they were talking and discussing together, Jesus himself drew near and went with them. But their eyes were kept from recognising him. And he said to them, “What is this conversation which you are holding with each other as you walk?” And they stood still, looking sad. Then one of them, named Cleopas, answered him, “Are you the only visitor to Jerusalem who does not know the things that have happened there in these days?” And he said to them, “What things?” And they said to him, “Concerning Jesus of Nazareth, who was a prophet mighty in deed and word before God and all the people, and how our chief priests and rulers delivered him up to be condemned to death, and crucified him. But we had hoped that he was the one to redeem Israel. Yes, and besides all this, it is now the third day since this happened. Moreover, some women of our company amazed us. They were at the tomb early in the morning and did not find his body; and they came back saying that they had even seen a vision of angels, who said that he was alive. Some of those who were with us went to the tomb, and found it just as the women had said; but him they did not see.” And he said to them, “O foolish men, and slow of heart to believe all that the prophets have spoken! Was it not necessary that the Christ should suffer these things and enter into his glory?” And beginning with Moses and all the prophets, he interpreted to them in all the Scriptures the things concerning himself. So they drew near to the village to which they were going. He appeared to be going further, but they constrained him, saying, “Stay with us, for it is towards evening and the day is now far spent.” So he went in to stay with them. When he was at table with them, he took the bread and blessed and broke it, and gave it to them. And their eyes were opened and they recognised him; and he vanished out of their sight. They said to each, other, “Did not our hearts burn within us while he talked to us on the road, while he opened to us the Scriptures?” And they rose that same hour and returned to Jerusalem; and they found the Eleven gathered together and those who were with them, who said, “The Lord has risen indeed, and has appeared to Simon!” Then they told what had happened on the road, and how he was known to them in the breaking of the bread.
The Gospel of the Lord.
PRAYER OF THE FAITHFUL
Celebrant:
As we celebrate the Resurrection of the Lord, let us pray to God our Father for the grace to recognize Christ, not only in the sacred scriptures and the Eucharist but also in one another, especially the poor among us.
For the church: that, through her ministry and guided by the light of the risen Lord, more persons may be illumined to recognize Christ in his word and at the breaking of bread. Let us pray to the Lord.
For those who hold public office: that like Peter, they may be drawn to the service of those they lead and be the voice of the voiceless and the oppressed. Let us pray to the Lord.
For equitable distribution of wealth: that the riches of the created world may be preserved, valued and made available as God’s precious gift to all persons and nations. Let us pray to the Lord.
For our local community: that, like the two disciples who journeyed together to Emmaus, we may grow in such love and unity that will enhance mutual understanding and peaceful coexistence. Let us pray to the Lord.
For other intentions: (the sick, church projects or other activities).
For the dead, especially those of our parish community and family members: that they may find eternal rest with the Lord. Let us pray to the Lord.
We pray in silence for our private intentions.
Celebrant:
Almighty God, we have listened to your word and prayed to you in faith and trust. May our hearts be enlightened that we may recognize you always in the Eucharist and, in your mercy, hear our prayers. Through Christ our Lord.
Today's Reflection
The Eucharist is at the Centre of the life of the church. It is the sacrament of the body and Blood and Christ, and is one with the sacrifice of the cross. The disciples of Jesus were disappointed because of the stories of the resurrection. Jesus took them on a journey through the scriptures, explaining to them all that is written about himself. However, they recognized him in the breaking of bread. Jesus is still visibly present in the church and continues to reveal himself through the Eucharist. The readings prepare us for that encounter with the risen Lord in the Eucharist. Jesus continues to reveal himself and feed his people in his word and in the Eucharist.
Personal Devotional
- Open the eyes of my mind Lord, that I may see as you see, think as you think and choose as you would choose.
- Lord, I beseech you, teach me to submit to your leading.
- It is my desire to do your will. Stamp in my heart the desire to do your will.
- Wisdom come from you; dear Lord teach me to be godly and wise, O Lord.
Let Us Pray (Prayer of Saint Francis of Assisi)
Lord, make me an instrument of your peace. Where there is hatred, let me sow love. Where there is injury, pardon. Where there is doubt, faith. Where there is despair, hope. Where there is darkness, light. Where there is sadness, joy. O Divine Master, grant that I may not so much seek to be consoled as to console. To be understood as to understand, to be loved as to love. For it is in giving that we receive, it is in pardoning that we are pardoned, and it is in dying that we are born to Eternal Life. Amen.
Monday, April 24, 2023
SAINT FIDELIS OF SIGMARINGEN, Priest and Martyr
Office: Psalter Week 3
Mass of the day or Memorial; Preface of Easter
Vestment: White/Red
Today’s Rosary: The Joyful Mysteries
ENTRANCE ANTIPHON
The good shepherd has risen, who laid down his life for his sheep, and willingly died for his flock, alleluia.
COLLECT
Grant, we pray, almighty God, that, putting off our old self with all its ways, we may live as Christ did, for through the healing paschal remedies, you have conformed us to his nature. Who lives and reigns with you...
-FIRST READING-
“They could not withstand the wisdom and the Spirit with which he spoke.”
A reading from the Acts of the Apostles (Acts 6:8-15)
In those days: Stephen, full of grace and power, did great wonders and signs among the people. Then some of those who belonged to the synagogue of the Freedmen (as it was called), and of the Cyrenians, and of the Alexandrians, and of those from Cilicia and Asia, arose and disputed with Stephen. But they could not withstand the wisdom and the Spirit with which he spoke. Then they secretly instigated men, who said, “We have heard him speak blasphemous words against Moses and God.” And they stirred up the people and the elders and the scribes, and they came upon him and seized him and brought him before the council, and set up false witnesses who said, “This man never ceases to speak words against this holy place and the law; for we have heard him say that this Jesus of Nazareth will destroy this place, and will change the customs which Moses delivered to us.” And gazing at him, all who sat in the council saw that his face was like the face of an angel.
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Psalm 119:23-24.26-27.29-30 (R. 1b)
R/. Blessed are those who walk in the law of the Lord.
Or: Alleluia.
Though princes sit plotting against
me, your servant ponders your statutes.
See, your decrees are my delight;
your statutes are my counsellors. R/.
I declared my ways and you answered me;
teach me your statutes.
Make me grasp the way of your precepts,
and I will ponder your wonders. R/.
R/. Blessed are those who walk in the law of the Lord.
Or: Alleluia.
Keep me from the way of falsehood;
grant me mercy by your law.
I have chosen the way of faithfulness;
your decrees I have upheld. R/.
ALLELUIA Matthew 4:4b
Alleluia. Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceeds from the mouth of God. Alleluia.
-GOSPEL-
“Do not labour for the food which perishes, but for the food which endures to eternal life”
A reading from the holy Gospel according to John (John 6:22-29)
[After five thousand men had eaten their fill, the disciples of Jesus saw him walking on the sea.] On the next day the people who remained on the other side of the sea saw that there had been only one boat there, and that Jesus had not entered the boat with his disciples, but that his disciples had gone away alone. However, boats from Tiberias came near the place where they ate the bread after the Lord had given thanks. So when the people saw that Jesus was not there, nor his disciples, they themselves got into the boats and went to Capernaum, seeking Jesus. When they found him on the other side of the sea, they said to him, “Rabbi, when did you come here?” Jesus answered them, “Truly, truly, I say to you, you seek me, not because you saw signs, but because you ate your fill of the loaves. Do not labour for the food which perishes, but for the food which endures to eternal life, which the Son of man will give to you; for on him has God the Father set his seal.” Then they said to him, “What must we do, to be doing the works of God?” Jesus answered them, “This is the work of God, that you believe in him whom he has sent.”
The Gospel of the Lord.
Today's Reflection
We must aim at the imperishable nourishment Jesus speaks of and believe in the one whom God has sent. The people had gone in search of Jesus not because of faith but because of utilitarian and materials motives. St Augustine of Hippo says, “How many are those who search for Jesus only to have from him temporal favours…! Rarely do we meet someone who looks for Jesus for Jesus.” Jesus is not demanding from us a series of activities but only faith in him. Faith is not a single action; it is a life to be lived in the varying experiences of daily life. In the measure we abandon our temporal and selfish motives in our search for Jesus, we fulfill the work of God, not our own.
Blessing for the New Week
Thank you Lord for this new day and this new week. Thank you for the gift of life. Thank you for your mercy and love. Accompany us in all that we shall do and may your grace help us to do the right thing at all times so that we will please you and be blessed by you.
May your truth be on our lips always and may we be willing and ready to accept the truth so that we will be healed.
I pray that God will shower his blessings upon you in a special way so that this new week shall bring joy, progress, increase in faith and prosperity to you and upon your household.
Be truthful in your dealings and you will be blessed.
Meditation: Luke 4:16-30
Personal Devotional
- Take the song, “Holy Ghost, do it again, do it again in my life.
- Father grant me a glimpse of your glory in the name of Jesus.
- Pray for the grace to be attentive to the voice of the spirit.
- Pray for revival of the authentic gifts of vision and revelation among believers
Let Us Pray
Stay with me, Lord, for it is necessary to have you present so that I do not forget you, you know how easily I abandon you. Stay with me, Lord, because I am weak, and I need you strength, that I may not fall so often, stay with me, Lord, for you are my life, and without you, I am without fervor. Stay with me, Lord, for you are my light, and without you, I am in darkness. Stay with me, Lord, to show me your will. Stay with me, Lord, for I desire to love you very much, and always be in your company. Stay with me, Lord, if you wish me to be faithful to you. Stay with me, Lord, for as poor as my soul is, I want it to be a place of consolation for you, a nest of love. Stay with me, Jesus, for it is getting late and the day is coming to a close, and life passes; death, judgment, eternity approaches. It is necessary to renew my strength, so that I will not stop along the way and for that, I need you. It is getting late and death approaches, I fear the darkness, the temptations, the dryness, the cross, the sorrows. O how I need you, my Jesus, in this night of exile! Stay with me tonight, Jesus, in life with all its dangers. I need you. Let me recognize you as your disciples did at the breaking of the bread, so that the Eucharistic Communion be the Light which disperses the darkness, the force which sustains me, the unique joy of my heart. Stay with me, Lord, because at the hour of my death, I want to remain united to you, if not by communion, at least by grace and love. Stay with me, Jesus, I do not ask for divine consolation, because I do not merit it, but the gift of your presence, oh yes, I ask this of you! Stay with me, Lord, for it is you alone I look for, your love, your Grace, your Will, your Heart, your Spirit, because I love you and ask no other reward but to lobe you more and more. With a firm love, I will love you with all my heart while on earth and continue to love you perfectly during all eternity. Amen.
Tuesday April 25, 2023
SAINT MARK, EVANGELIST (FEAST)
Office: Proper, Te Deum
Mass Prop. Gloria., Preface of Apostles
Vestment: Red
Today’s Rosary: The Sorrowful Mysteries
Mark, or John Mark, was intimately associated with the spreading of the faith, and the development of the early Church. Bonn in Jerusalem, he accompanied Barnabas, Paul and Peter in their apostolic journeys. According to an ancient tradition, Mark’s Gospel reflects the preaching of Peter. Considered founder of the Church in Alexandria of Egypt, Mark is specially honoured by the Coptic Christians of that country. His contribution to the establishment of the Church in Africa cannot be underestimated and today we give thanks to God for the gift of faith we have received through Saint Mark.
ENTRANCE ANTIPHON MK 16:15
Go into all the world, and proclaim the Gospel to every creature, alleluia.
COLLECT
O God, who raised up Saint Mark, your Evangelist, and endowed him with the grace to preach the Gospel, grant, we pray, that we may so profit from his teaching, as to follow faithfully in the foot- steps of Christ. Who lives and reigns with you. . .
-FIRST READING-
My son, Mark, sends you greetings.
A reading from the first Letter of Saint Peter (1 Peter 5:5b-14)
Beloved: Clothe yourselves, all of you, with humility towards one another, for “God opposes the proud, but gives grace to the humble.” Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God, that in due time he may exalt you. Cast all your anxieties on him, for he cares about you. Be sober, be watchful. Your adversary the devil prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking some one to devour. Resist him, firm in your faith, knowing that the same experience of suffering is required of your brotherhood throughout the world. And after you have suffered a little while, the God of all grace, who has called you to his eternal glory in Christ, will himself restore, establish, and strengthen you. To him be the dominion for ever and ever. Amen. By Silvanus, a faithful brother as I regard him, I have written briefly to you, exhorting and declaring that this is the true grace of God; stand fast in it. She who is at Babylon, who is likewise chosen, sends you greetings; and so does my son Mark. Greet one another with a kiss of love. Peace to all of you that are in Christ.
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Psalm89:2-3.6-7.16-17 (R. see 2a)
R/. I will sing for ever of your mercies, O Lord.
Or: Alleluia.
I will sing for ever of your mercies, O Lord,
through all ages my mouth will proclaim your fidelity.
I have declared your mercy is established for ever;
your fidelity stands firm as the heavens. R/.
The heavens praise your wonders, O Lord,
your fidelity in the assembly of your holy ones.
For who in the skies can compare with the Lord,
or who is like the Lord among the heavenly powers? R/.
R/. I will sing for ever of your mercies, O Lord.
Or: Alleluia.
How blessed the people who know your praise,
who walk, O Lord, in the light of your face,
who find their joy every day in your name,
who make your justice their joyful acclaim. R/.
ALLELUIA 1 Corinthians 1:23a-24b
Alleluia. We preach Christ crucified; the power of God and the wisdom of God. Alleluia.
-GOSPEL-
“Preach the Gospel to the whole creation. ”
A reading from the holy Gospel according to Mark (Mark 16:15-20)
At that time: [Appearing to the Eleven,] Jesus said to them, “Go into all the world and preach the Gospel to the whole creation. He who believes and is baptised will be saved; but he who does not believe will be condemned. And these signs will accompany those who believe: in my name they will cast out demons; they will speak in new tongues; they will pick up serpents, and if they drink any deadly thing, it will not hurt them; they will lay their hands on the sick, and they will recover.” So then the Lord Jesus, after he had spoken to them, was taken up into heaven, and sat down at the right hand of God. And they went forth and preached everywhere, while the Lord worked with them 8nd confirmed the message by the signs that attended it. Amen.
The Gospel of the Lord.
PRAYER OF THE FAITHFUL
Celebrant:
Through the missionary zeal of Saint Mark the Evangelist, the Good News of Christ has reached many parts of the earth. As we celebrate the feast of this Evangelist, let us turn to the Lord in prayer that he may make us his witnesses.
For the church: that members of Christ’s faithful, each in his or her proper state, may work harmoniously to further the kingdom of God here on earth. Let us pray to the Lord.
For our country: that people from diverse religious and ethnic backgrounds may work together in love for the promotion of peace and harmony in society. Let us pray to the Lord.
For missionaries in the world: that the men and women who propagate the message of Christ in mission territories may remain witnesses of the Joy of the Gospel and living signs of the love of God for all. Let us pray to the Lord.
For young people in our worshipping community: that, through their personal encounter with Jesus, they may accept the Lord’s invitation to consecrate their lives for the purpose of proclaiming the Good News. Let us pray to the Lord.
For other intentions: (the sick, church projects or other activities).
For the dead, especially those of our parish community and family members: that they may be led to the complete truth in the kingdom of God. Let us pray to the Lord.
We pray in silence for our private intentions.
Celebrant:
Almighty God and Father, through the ministry of Saint Mark, people were converted to the Christian faith. Grant that by bearing witness to the Gospel, we may further your kingdom here on earth. Through Christ our Lord.
R/. Amen.
TODAY’S REFLECTION
Saint Teresa of Avila postulates three prerequisites to spiritual life: Humility, detachment and love. She asserts that “humility situates persons within the realm of right relationships. They are in a place of truth before themselves and before God.” Today’s first Reading exalts this virtue as necessary in our relationship with God. God rewards the humble. Humility does not mean self-depreciation. It is a recognition that all we are and have comes from God. A saint once said that all is grace. If this is our attitude to life, we shall live in peace with one another and enrich one another with the gifts of ourselves. Jesus commissions us to go out and bring his message to everyone, while manifesting the signs of believers, speaking in tongues of love and charity.
PERSONAL DEVOTIONAL
- Lord, I praise you for your salvation and the fellowship of your people. Show me who I can pray for and invite to know you. Amen.
- Pray against the spirit of rejecting divine engagements.
Let Us Pray
Prayer to my Guardian angel
O angel of God, my guardian dear. To whom God’s love commits me here. Ever this day or night be at my side. To light, to guard, to rule and guide. Amen.
Wednesday April 26, 2023
3rd Week of Easter
Office: Psalter Week 3
Mass of the day; Preface of Easter
Vestment: White
Today’s Rosary: The Glorious Mysteries
ENTRANCE ANTIPHON cr. Ps 71:8.23
My mouth is filled with your praise, that I may sing aloud; my lips shall shout for joy, when I sing to you, alleluia.
COLLECT
Be present to your family, O Lord, we pray, and graciously ensure those you have endowed with the grace of faith an eternal share in the Resurrection of your Only Begotten Son. Who lives and reigns with you...
-FIRST READING-
“They went about preaching the word.”
A reading from the Acts of the Apostles (Acts 8:1b-8)
On that day a great persecution arose against the Church in Jerusalem; and they were all scattered throughout the region of Judea and Samaria, except the apostles. Devout men buried Stephen, and made great lamentation over him. But Saul laid waste the Church, and entering house after house, he dragged off men and women and committed them to prison. Now those who were scattered went about preaching the word. Philip went down to a city of Samaria, and proclaimed to them the Christ. And the multitudes with one accord gave heed to what was said by Philip, when they heard him and saw the signs which he did. For unclean spirits came out of many who were possessed, crying with a loud voice; and many who were paralysed or lame were healed. So there was much joy in that city.
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Psalm 66:1-3a.4-5.6-7a (R. 1)
R/. Cry out with joy to God, all the earth.
Or: Alleluia.
Cry out with joy to God, all the earth;
O sing to the glory of his name.
O render him glorious praise.
Say to God, “How awesome your deeds!” R/.
“Before you all the earth shall bow down,
shall sing to you, sing to your name!”
Come and see the works of God:
awesome his deeds among the children of men. R/.
R/. Cry out with joy to God, all the earth.
Or: Alleluia.
He turned the sea into dry land;
they passed through the river on foot.
Let our joy, then, be in him;
he rules forever by his might. R/.
ALLELUIA John 6:40
ALLELUIA. Every one who believes in the Son has eternal life; and I will raise him up at the last day, says the Lord. ALLELUIA
-GOSPEL-
“This is the will of my Father, that every one who sees the Son should have eternal life.”
A reading from the holy Gospel according to John (John 6:35-40)
At that time: Jesus said to the crowds, “I am the bread of life; he who comes to me shall not hunger, and he who believes in me shall never thirst. But I said to you that you have seen me and yet do not believe. All that the Father gives me will come to me; and him who comes to me I will not cast out. For I have come down ‘from heaven, not to do my own will, but the will of him who sent me; and this is the will of him who sent me, that I should lose nothing of all that he has given me, but raise it up at the last day. For this is the will of my Father, that every one who sees the Son and believes in him should have eternal life; and I will raise him up at the last day.”
The Gospel of the Lord.
Today's Reflection
To believe in Jesus is to see who he really is. It is the Father’s loving initiative that enables human beings to attain salvation through the Son. St Augustine of Hippo says that they enter where enters the good and faithful servant to whom the Lord will say, “Enter into the joy of your Lord” and where they will be fully satisfied. But the crowd that saw him did not recognize him as the Son of God and did not believe in him. Often our seeing is similar; our fleeting look fails to see in depth, and so we do not grasp the real meaning of what we see. Jesus who “alone has seen the Father” (Jn 6:47) has come to enable us to see God. Those who are pure of heart see God in him, and he guarantees that they will be raise to eternal life.
Personal Devotional
- Ask for mercy for the times you refused to accept God’s task or left it uncompleted.
- Pray for the grace and anointing to finish your Christian race well and strong.
- Tell God about that particular divine task assigned to you and the difficulties you are facing.
- Pray for the empowerment of the Holy Spirit to complete that physical project/work He has started in you
- Pray against all evil forces working to prevent you from completing your task, in your family, office, church.
Let Us Pray
Holy Father, in the name of Jesus, I cry out for your mercy and forgiveness of my sins. I repent and renounce all of them. Forgive me, my God, for offending your image and likeness in me, for offending this same image and likeness in my neighbour.
Cleanse me in the precious Blood of Jesus Christ, purify every stain of sin in me, have mercy on me.
And now, Father, I want to open a blank page for this day that is beginning and I ask you, in the name of Jesus Christ, your Son, and my Lord, to fill it out with everything that happens to me today according to your will. Subject my will to yours as I put myself entirely in your hands to be led by the Holy Spirit through your pathways.
I proclaim that you are my God and Lord, the one who saves, sustains, exalts, protects, and heals me, in whom I put all my hope and trust. For everything I have received from you, I give you glory and thanks; for everything I am yet to receive, I praise and bless you. Amen, Alleluia.
Thursday April 27, 2023
3rd Week of Easter
Office: Psalter Week 3
Mass of the day; Preface of Easter
Vestment: White
Today’s Rosary: The Luminous Mysteries
ENTRANCE ANTIPHON cf. Ex 15:1-2
Let us sing to the Lord for he has gloriously triumphed. The Lord is my strength and my might; he has become my salvation, alleluia.
COLLECT
Almighty ever-living God, let us feel your compassion more readily during these days when, by your gift, we have known it more fully, so that those you have freed from the darkness of error, may cling more firmly to the teachings of your truth. Through our Lord...
-FIRST READING-
“See, here is water! What is to prevent my being baptised?”
A reading from the Acts of the Apostles (Acts 8:26 - 40)
In those days: An angel of the Lord said to Philip, “Rise and go towards the south to the road that goes down from Jerusalem to Gaza.” This is a desert road. And he rose and went. And behold, an Ethiopian, a eunuch, a minister of Candace the queen of the Ethiopians, in charge of all her treasure, had come to Jerusalem to worship and was returning; seated in his chariot, he was reading the prophet Isaiah. And the Spirit said to Philip, “Go up and join this chariot.” So Philip ran to him, and heard him reading Isaiah the prophet, and asked, “Do you understand what you are reading?” And he said, “How can I, unless some one guides me?” And he invited Philip to come up and sit with him. Now the passage of the Scripture which he was reading was this: “As a sheep led to the slaughter or a lamb before its shearer is silent, so he opens not his mouth. In his humiliation justice was denied him. Who can describe his generation? For his life is taken up from the earth.” And the eunuch said to Philip, “Please, about whom does the prophet say this, about himself or about some one else?” Then Philip opened his mouth, and beginning with this Scripture he told him the good news of Jesus. And as they went along the road they came to some water, and the eunuch said, “See, here is water! What is to prevent my being baptised?” And he commanded the chariot to stop, and they both went down into the water, Philip and the eunuch, and he baptised him. And when they came up out of the water, the Spirit of the Lord caught up Philip; and the eunuch saw him no more, and went on his way rejoicing. But Philip was found at Azotus, and passing on he preached the gospel to all the towns till he came to Caesarea.
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Psalm66:8-9.16-17.20 (R. 1)
R/. Cry out with joy to God, all the earth.
Or: Alleluia.
O peoples, bless our God;
let the voice of his praise resound,
of the God who gave life to our souls
and kept our feet from stumbling. R/.
Come and hear, all who fear God;
I will tell what he did for my soul.
To him I cried aloud,
with exaltation ready on my tongue. R/.
R/. Cry out with joy to God, all the earth.
Or: Alleluia.
Blest be God, who did not reject my prayer,
nor withhold from me his merciful love. R/.
ALLELUIA John 6:51
Alleluia. I am the living bread which came down from heaven, says the Lord; if any one eats of this bread, he will live for ever. Alleluia.
-GOSPEL-
“I am the living bread which came down from heaven.”
A reading from the holy Gospel according to John (John 6:44-51)
At that time: Jesus said to the crowds, “No one can come to me unless the Father who sent me draws him; and I will raise him up at the last day. It is written in the prophets, ‘And they shall all be taught by God.’ Every one who has heard and learned from the Father comes to me. Not that any one has seen the Father except him who is from God; he has seen the Father. Truly, truly, I say to you, he who believes has eternal life. I am the bread of life. Your fathers ate the manna in the wilderness, and they died. This is the bread which comes down from heaven, that a man may eat of it and not die. I am the living bread which came down from heaven; if any one eats of this bread, he will live for ever; and the bread which I shall give for the life of the world is my flesh.”
The Gospel of the Lord.
Today's Reflection
Discipleship involves listening, understanding and acting. God speaks to us in different ways through the sacred scriptures, traditions and teachings of the church. This role of the Catholic Church as the teaching authority of the faith is indispensable, most especially in the world of conflicting values that we live in today. These imbibed teachings must then be put into practice in order to become fruitful. The seed of faith is sown through listening, it germinates and blossoms through understanding, and bears fruit when put into practice.
Friday April 28, 2023
Vestment: White
Today’s Rosary: The Sorrowful Mysteries
ENTRANCE ANTIPHON RV 5:12
Worthy is the Lamb who was slain, to receive power and divinity, and wisdom and strength and honour, alleluia.
COLLECT
Grant, we pray, almighty God, that we who have come to know the grace of the Lord’s Resurrection, may through the love of the Spirit, ourselves rise to newness of life. Through our Lord...
-FIRST READING-
“He is a chosen instrument of mine to carry my name before the Gentiles.”
A reading from the Acts of the Apostles (Acts 9:1-20)
In those days: Saul, still breathing threats and murder against the disciples of the Lord, went to the high priest and asked him for letters to the synagogues at Damascus, so that if he found any belonging to the Way, men or women, he might bring them bound to Jerusalem. Now as he journeyed he approached Damascus, and suddenly a light from heaven flashed about him. And he fell to the ground and heard a voice saying to him, “Saul, Saul, why do you persecute me?” And he said, “Who are you, Lord?” And he said, “I am Jesus, whom you are persecuting; but rise and enter the city, and you will be told what you are to do.” The men who were travelling with him stood speechless, hearing the voice but seeing no one. Saul arose from the ground; and when his eyes were opened, he could see nothing; so they led him by the hand and brought him into Damascus. And for three days he was without sight, and neither ate nor drank. Now there was a disciple at Damascus named Ananias. The Lord said to him in a vision, “Ananias.” And he said, “Here I am, Lord.” And the Lord said to him, “Rise and go to the street called Straight, and inquire in the house of Judas for a man of Tarsus named Saul; for behold, he is praying, and he has seen a man named Ananias come in and lay his hands on him so that he might regain his sight.” But Ananias answered, “Lord, I have heard from many about this man, how much evil he has done to your saints at Jerusalem; and here he has authority from the chief priests to bind all who call upon your name.” But the Lord said to him, “Go, for he is a chosen instrument of mine to carry my name before the Gentiles and kings and the sons of Israel; for I will show him how much he must suffer for the sake of my name.” So Ananias departed and entered the house. And laying his hands on him he said, “Brother Saul, the Lord Jesus who appeared to you on the road by which you came, has sent me that you may regain your sight and be filled with the Holy Spirit.” And immediately something like scales fell from his eyes and he regained his sight. Then he rose and was baptised, and took food and was strengthened. For several days he was with the disciples at Damascus. And in the synagogues immediately he proclaimed Jesus, saying, “He is the Son of God.”
The word of the Lord
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Psalm117:1.2 (R. Mark 16:15)
R/. Go into all the world, and preach the Gospel.
Or: Alleluia.
O praise the Lord, all you nations;
acclaim him, all you peoples! R/.
For his merciful love has prevailed over us;
and the Lord’s faithfulness endures forever. R/.
ALLELUIA John 6:56
Alleluia. He who eats my flesh and drinks my blood abides in me, and I in him, says the Lord. Alleluia.
-GOSPEL-
“My flesh is food indeed, and my blood is drink indeed.”
A reading from the holy Gospel according to John (John 6:52-59)
At that time: The Jews disputed among themselves, saying, “How can this man give us his flesh to eat?” So Jesus said to them, “Truly, truly, I say to you, unless you eat the flesh of the Son of man and drink his blood, you have no life in you; he who eats my flesh and drinks my blood has eternal life, and I will raise him up at the last day. For my flesh is food indeed, and my blood is drink indeed. He who eats my flesh and drinks my blood abides in me, and I in him. As the living Father sent me, and I live because of the Father, so he who eats me will live because of me. This is the bread which came down from heaven, not such as the fathers ate and died; he who eats this bread will live for ever.” This he said in the synagogue, as he taught at Capernaum.
The Gospel of the Lord.
TODAY’S REFLECTION
“Not to us, O Lord, but to your name give the glory.” God deserves all glory at all times. We are all instruments in the hands of God, and whatever good we achieve is contingent upon the grace of God. This implies recognition and gratitude; we recognise God as the source of the grace and we give him thanks for the blessings. This Christian response of recognition and gratitude to divine benevolence does not add to the greatness of God but only makes the subject more worthy of receiving greater blessings. We should always know that, no matter what our situation is, it could have been worse if not for the grace of God. As such, in all situations, we must give thanks to God.
Saturday April 29, 2023
CATHERINE OF SIENA V. D. (Mem.)
Office: psalter Week 3
Mass of the day; Preface of Easter
Vestment: White
Today’s Rosary: The Joyful Mysteries
Vespers I of the 4th Sunday of Easter
ENTRANCE ANTIPHON Col 2:12
You have been buried with Christ in baptism, through which you also rose again by faith in the working of God, who raised him from the dead, alleluia.
COLLECT
O God, who in the font of Baptism have made new those who believe in you, keep safe those reborn in Christ, that defeating every onslaught of error, they may faithfully preserve the grace of your blessing. Through our Lord...
-FIRST READING-
“The Church was built up,’ and in the comfort of the Holy Spirit it was multiplied”
A reading from the Acts of the Apostles (Acts 9:31-42)
In those days: The Church throughout all Judea and Galilee and Samaria had peace and was built up; and walking in the fear of the Lord and in the comfort of the Holy Spirit it was multiplied. Now as Peter went here and there among them all, he came down also to the saints that lived at Lydda. There he found a man named Aeneas, who had been bedridden for eight years and was paralyzed. And Peter said to him, “Aeneas, Jesus Christ heals you; rise and make your bed.” And immediately he rose. And all the residents of Lydda and Sharon saw him, and they turned to the Lord. Now there was at Joppa a disciple named Tabitha, which means Dorcas or Gazelle. She was full of good works and acts of charity. In those days she fell sick and died; and when they had washed her, they laid her in an upper room. Since Lydda was near Joppa, the disciples, hearing that Peter was there, sent two men to him entreating him, “Please come to us without delay.” So Peter rose and went with them. And when he had come, they took him to the upper room. All the widows stood beside him weeping, and showing coats and garments which Dorcas made while she was with them. But Peter put them all outside and knelt down and prayed; then turning to the body he said, “Tabitha, rise.” And she opened her eyes, and when she saw Peter she sat up. And he gave her his hand and lifted her up. Then calling the saints and widows he presented her alive. And it became known throughout all Joppa, and many believed in the Lord.
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Psalm 116: 12-13.14-1:5.16-17 (R. 12)
R/. How can I repay the Lord for all his goodness to me?
Or: Alleluia.
How can I repay the Lord
for all his goodness to me?
The cup of salvation I will raise;
I will call on the name of the Lord. R/.
My vows to the Lord I will fulfil
before all his people.
How precious in the eyes of the Lord
is the death of his faithful. R/.
R/. How can I repay the Lord for all his goodness to me?
Or: Alleluia.
Your servant, Lord, your servant am I,
the son of your handmaid;
you have loosened my bonds.
A thanksgiving sacrifice I make;
I will call on the name of the Lord. R/.
ALLELUIA John 6:63c, 68c
Alleluia. Your words, Lord, are Spirit and life; you have the words of eternal life. Alleluia.
-GOSPEL-
“To whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life.”
A reading from the holy Gospel according to John (John 6:60-69)
At that time: Many of the disciples of Jesus said, “This is a hard saying; who can listen to it?” But Jesus, knowing in himself that his disciples murmured at it, said to them, “Do you take offence at this? Then what if you were to see the Son of man ascending where he was before? It is the spirit that gives life, the flesh is of no avail; the words that I have spoken to you are spirit and life. But there are some of you that do not believe.” For Jesus knew from the first who those were that did not believe, and who it was that would betray him. And he said, “This is why I told you that no one can come to me unless it is granted him by the Father.” After this many of his disciples drew back and no longer walked with him. Jesus said to the Twelve, “Will you also go away?” Simon Peter answered him, “Lord, to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life; and we have believed, and have come to know, that you are the Holy One of God.”
The Gospel of the Lord
Today's Reflection
While the Jews reacted negatively to the Eucharistic teaching of Jesus, some of his disciples too disagreed with this teaching and left his company because they could not accept the hard language of faith. Jesus responds with a question which could be interpreted to mean: when the Son of Man ascends to the Father, your astonishment will disappear. Mere flesh, that is to say, human beings, without the animating Spirit, is of no avail. The words of Jesus are the words of God and the revelation of the Spirit of God. Just as the Word took on human flesh to unite himself with the human race, so the human race should eat his flesh to return to the Father who communicates life through him. This truth does not admit of any diluting it demands total adherence.
Sunday April 30, 2023
4th Sunday of Easter
GOOD SHEPHERD SUNDAY
Office: Psalter Week 4, Te Deum
V1 -, R1 -, R2 -,
Mass prop. Gloria. Creed
Preface of Easter
Vestment: White
Today’s Rosary: The Glorious Mysteries
VOCATION SUNDAY: Today, special prayers should be offered for vocations to the priesthood and the religious life. A special homily on the subject should be given to the faithful and prayers for this included in the general intercession
MAY DEVOTION BEGINS TOMORROW
THEME OF THE SUNDAY: The Good Shepherd.
A shepherd is a guide and a leader and so the fourth Sunday after Easter is called Vocation Sunday: a day of special prayer for those who are “shepherds” in the Church. There is only one “Shepherd” and that is Jesus. We are his flock. Those who belong to his flock recognise his voice. Jesus is also the gate. Those who need to contact his sheep must go through him, must, that is, mold their way of thinking and acting on his. The first and second readings are linked to this theme and show us what Jesus did, which we must imitate.
ENTRANCE ANTIPHON Cf ps 33:5-6
The merciful love of the Lord fills the earth; by the word of the Lord the heavens were made, alleluia.
The Gloria in excels is (Glory to God in the highest) is said.
COLLECT
Almighty ever-living God, lead us to a share in the joys of heaven, so that the humble flock may reach where the brave shepherd has gone before. Who lives and reigns with you….
-FIRST READING-
“God has made him both Lord and Christ.”
A reading from the Acts of the Apostles (Acts 2.14a.36-41)
[On the day of Pentecost,] Peter, standing with the Eleven, lifted up his voice and said to the multitude, “Let all the house of Israel know assuredly that God has made him both Lord and Christ, this Jesus whom you crucified.” Now when they heard this they were cut to the heart, and said to Peter and the rest of the apostles, “Brethren, what shall we do?” And Peter said to them, “Repent, and be baptised every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins; and you shall receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. For the promise is to you and to your children and to all that are far off, every one whom the Lord our God calls to him.” And he testified with many other words and exhorted them, saying, “Save yourselves from this crooked generation.” So those who received his word were baptised, and there were added that day about three thousand souls.
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Psalm23:1-3a.3b-4.5.6 (R. 1)
R/. The Lord is my shepherd; there is nothing I shall want.
Or: Alleluia.
The Lord is my shepherd;
there is nothing I shall want.
Fresh and green are the pastures
where he gives me repose.
Near restful waters he leads me;
he revives my soul. R/.
He guides me along the right path,
for the sake of his name.
Though I should walk in the valley of the shadow of death,
no evil would I fear, for you are with me.
Your crook and your staff will give me comfort. R/.
R/. The Lord is my shepherd; there is nothing I shall want.
Or: Alleluia.
You have prepared a table before me
in the sight of my foes.
My head you have anointed with oil;
my cup is overflowing. R/.
Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me
all the days of my life.
In the Lord’s own house shall I dwell
for length of days unending. R/.
-SECOND READING-
“You have returned to the shepherd of your souls.
A reading from the first Letter of Saint Peter (1 Peter 2:20b-25)
Beloved: If when you do right and suffer for it you take it patiently, you have God’s approval. For to this you have been called, because Christ also suffered for you, leaving you an example, that you should follow in his steps. He committed no sin; no guile was found on his lips. When he was reviled, he did not revile in return; when he suffered, he did not threaten; but he trusted to him who judges justly. He himself bore our sins in his body on the tree, that we might die to sin and live to righteousness. By his wounds you have been healed. For you were straying like sheep, but have now returned to the Shepherd and Guardian of your souls.
The word of the Lord.
ALLELUIA John 10: 14
Alleluia. I am the good shepherd, says the Lord; I know my own, and my own know me. Alleluia.
-GOSPEL-
“I am the door of the sheep.”
A reading from the holy Gospel according to John (John 10:1-10)
At that time: Jesus said, “Truly, truly, I say to you, he who does not enter the sheepfold by the door but climbs in by another way, that man is a thief and a robber; but he who enters by the door is the shepherd of the sheep. To him the gatekeeper opens; the sheep hear his voice, and he calls his own sheep by name and leads them out. When he has brought out all his own, he goes before them, and the sheep follow him, for they know his voice. A stranger they will not follow, but they will flee from him, for they do not know the voice of strangers.” This figure Jesus used with them, but they did not understand what he was saying to them. So Jesus again said to them, “Truly, truly, I say to you, I am the door of the sheep. All who came before me are thieves and robbers; but the sheep did not heed them. I am the door; if any one enters by me, he will be saved, and will go in and out and find pasture. The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy, I came that they may have life, and have it abundantly.”
The Gospel of the Lord.
PRAYER OF THE FAITHFUL
Celebrant:
Christ, the Good Shepherd, is the way to the Father. He guides and teaches us that we may remain on the path of eternal life. As we present our needs to God, let us pray, in a special way, for the pastors of souls all over the world whom Christ has placed over us.
For the pastors of the church: that God may grant N…, our Pope, N…, our Bishop, and all bishops and priests, the grace to zealously carry out their pastoral responsibilities, so that through them, Christ’s faithful may experience the boundless love and mercy of God. Let us pray to the Lord.
For world leaders: that, through their efforts, the death penalty, which attacks the dignity of the human person may be abolished in every country. Let us pray to the Lord.
For those persecuted for the sake of the Gospel: that they may see it as their participation in the suffering of Christ, in whom is their hope, comfort and eternal reward. Let us pray to the Lord.
For vocations to the priesthood and the religious life: that God, who is the Master of the vineyard, may call more faithful labourers into his vineyard. Let us pray to the Lord.
For other intentions: (the sick, church projects or other activities).
For the dead, especially those of our parish community and family members: that they may find eternal rest with the Lord. Let us pray to the Lord.
We pray in silence for our private intentions.
Celebrant:
God our Father, you are the loving Shepherd who never abandons his flock. Trusting in your love and care, may we never stray from you but always follow wherever you lead us. Through Christ our Lord.
R/. Amen.
TODAY’S REFLECTION
“By his wounds you have been healed,” says Saint Peter in today’s Second Reading. The shepherd becomes the door of the sheepfold. He risks his life in order to protect his sheep. The predator targets the shepherd who guards the sheep like a door. His life is in danger. He is attacked and killed. He dies to save the lives of the sheep. But a thief runs away when the predator attacks. The sheep get scattered and killed. In Jesus we have the good shepherd who “bore our sins in his body on the tree,” who was wounded and killed to save his sheep. We are that sheep saved by the death of Jesus, our good shepherd. Do we hear his voice and follow his path? Or do we hear the voice of the thief who “comes to kill and destroy?” Lord, help us hear your voice and follow you.
Monday May 1, 2023
ST JOSEPH THE WORKER (Opt. Mem.)
Office: Psalter Week 4
Mass of the day or of the Memorial
Vestment: White
Today’s Rosary: The Joyful Mysteries
ENTRANCE ANTIPHON Rom 6:9
Christ, having risen from the dead, dies now no more; death will no longer have dominion over him, alleluia.
COLLECT
O God, perfect light of the blessed, by whose gift we celebrate the paschal mysteries on earth, bring us, we pray, to rejoice in the full measure of your grace for ages unending. Through our Lord...
-FIRST READING-
“Then to the Gentiles also, God has granted repentance unto life.”
A reading from the Acts of the Apostles (Acts 11: 1-18)
In those days: The apostles and the brethren who were in Judea heard that the Gentiles also had received the word of God. So when Peter went up to Jerusalem, the circumcision party criticized him, saying, “Why did you go to uncircumcised men and eat with them?” But Peter began and explained to them in order: “I was in the city of Joppa praying; and in a trance I saw a vision, something descending, like a great sheet, let down from heaven by four corners; and it came down to me. Looking at it closely I observed animals and beasts of prey and reptiles and birds of the air. And I heard a voice saying to me, ‘Rise, Peter; kill and eat.’ “But I said, ‘No, Lord; for nothing common or unclean has ever entered my mouth.’ “But the voice answered a second time from heaven, ‘What God has cleansed you must not call common.’ “This happened three times, and all was drawn up again into heaven. At that very moment three men arrived at the house in which we were, sent to me from Caesarea. And the Spirit told me to go with them, making no distinction. These six brethren also accompanied me, and we entered the man’s house. And he told us how he had seen the angel standing in his house and saying, ‘Send to Joppa and bring Simon called Peter; he will declare to you a message by which you will be saved, you and all your household.’ As I began to speak, the Holy Spirit fell on them just as on us at the beginning. And I remembered the word of the Lord, how he said, ‘John baptised with water, but you shall be baptised with the Holy Spirit.’ If then God gave the same gift to them as he gave to us when we believed in the Lord Jesus Christ, who was I that I could withstand God?” When they heard this they were silenced. And they glorified God, saying, “Then to the Gentiles also, God has granted repentance unto life.”
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Psalm 42:2-3; 43:3.4 (R. see 42:3ab)
R/. My soul is thirsting for you, the living God.
or: Alleluia.
Like the deer that yearns for running streams,
so my soul is yearning for you, my God.
My soul is thirsting for God, the living God;
when can I enter and appear before the face of God? R/.
O send forth your light and your truth;
they will guide me on.
They will bring me to your holy mountain,
to the place where you dwell. R/.
R/. My soul is thirsting for you, the living God.
or: Alleluia.
And I will come to the altar of God,
to God, my joy and gladness.
To you will I give thanks on the harp,
O God, my God. R/.
ALLELUIA John 10:14
Alleluia. I am the good shepherd, says the Lord; I know my own, and my own know me. Alleluia.
-GOSPEL-
“The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep.”
A reading from the holy Gospel according to John (John 10:11-18)
At that time: Jesus said, “I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep. He who is a hireling and not a shepherd, whose own the sheep are not, sees the wolf coming and leaves the sheep and flees; and the wolf snatches them and scatters them. He flees because he is a hireling and cares nothing for the sheep. I am the good shepherd; I know my own and my own know me, as the Father knows me and I know the Father; and I lay down my life for the sheep. And I have other sheep, that are not of this fold; I must bring them also, and they will heed my voice. So there shall be one flock, one shepherd. For this reason the Father loves me, because I lay down my life, that I may take it again. No one takes it from me, but I lay it down of my own accord. I have power to lay it down, and I have power to take it again; this charge I have received from my Father.”
The Gospel of the Lord.
TODAY'S REFLECTION
In chapter 6 of the Gospel of John, Jesus repeats again and again that he is the bread of life and that he who eats this bread will live eternally. The Eucharist concretizes union with Christ in faith and ensures life in him. When the Jews are scandalized at this teaching Jesus reinforces his expression and insists on the necessity of eating his flesh and drinking his blood. The blood in particular points to the sacrificial sense of the Eucharist and union with Christ in participating in the work of redemption. The Eucharist is different from all earthly food because it leads to participation in the mystery of Christ through faith. Faith is a necessary requirement for participation which makes present the entire redemptive work of Christ.
PERSONAL DEVOTIONAL: Day 1 of May Devotion
Mary and Joseph worked very hard supporting each other as they raised Jesus and in the end their efforts were rewarded with heavenly blessings.
You lose nothing when you offer your time, talent and treasure to support one another to make the world a better place. May God bless all the workers who are working hard to make our world a beautiful and happy place.
Prayer:
Oh God, help me to be generous with my time and gifts so that together as a team with my brothers and sisters everywhere we can make you proud. Amen.
Pray the Rosary,
Honour the Blessed Virgin Mary
M A Y D E V O T I O N
Program of Daily Events for May Devotion (Personal / Group)
O my God because you’re so good, I am very sorry that I have sinned against you and by the help of your grace I will not sin again.
O most pure heart of Mary, full of goodness, show your love towards us. Let the flame of your heart, O Mary, descend on all people. We love you immensely. Impress on our hearts true love so that we may long for you. O Mary, gentle and humble of heart, remember us when we sin. You know that all we sin. Grant that through your most pure and motherly heart, we may be healed from every spiritual sickness. Grant that we may always experience the goodness of your motherly heart, and that through the flame of your heart we may be converted. Amen.
(Begin with the invocation of the Holy Spirit: Come, O Holy Spirit, fill the heart……….
O Most Holy Virgin, and Our Mother, we listen with grief to the complaints of your immaculate Heart surrounded with the thorns placed therein at every moment by the blasphemies and ingratitude of ungrateful humanity. We are moved by the ardent desire of loving you as Our Mother and of promising a true devotion to your Immaculate Heart. We therefore kneel before you to manifest the sorrow we feel for the grievances that people cause you, and to atone by our prayers and sacrifices for the offenses with which they return your love. Obtain for them and for us the pardon of so many sins. Hasten the conversion of sinners that they may love Jesus Christ and cease to offend the Lord, already so much offended. Turn your eyes of mercy toward us, that we may love God with all our heart on earth and enjoy him forever in Heaven.
Remember, O most gracious Virgin Mary, that never was it known that anyone who fled to thy protection, implored thy help, or sought thine intercession was left unaided Inspired by this confidence, I fly unto thee, O Virgin of virgins, my mother; to thee do I come, before thee I stand, sinful and sorrowful. O Mother of the Word Incarnate, despise not my petitions, but in thy mercy hear and answer me. Amen.
Tuesday May 2, 2023
ATHANASIUS, B.D. (MEMORIAL)
Office: Psalter Week 4
Mass of the Memorial, Preface of Easter
Vestment: White
Today’s Rosary: The Sorrowful Mysteries
ENTRANCE ANTIPHON Rv 19:7.6
Let us rejoice and be glad and give glory to God, for the Lord our God the Almighty reigns, alleluia.
COLLECT
Grant, we pray, almighty God, that celebrating the mysteries of the Lord’s Resurrection, we may merit to receive the joy of our redemption. Through our Lord...
-FIRST READING-
“They spoke to the Greeks also, preaching the Lord Jesus.”
A reading from the Acts of the Apostles (Acts 11:19-26)
In those days: Those who were scattered because of the persecution that arose over Stephen travelled as far as Phoenicia and Cyprus and Antioch, speaking the word to none except Jews. But there were some of them, men of Cyprus and Cyrene, who on coming to Antioch spoke to the Greeks also, preaching the Lord Jesus. And the hand of the Lord was with them, and a great number that believed turned to the Lord. News of this came to the ears of the Church in Jerusalem, and they sent Barnabas to Antioch. When he came and saw the grace of God, he was glad; and he exhorted them all to remain faithful to the Lord with steadfast purpose; for he was a good man, full of the Holy Spirit and of faith. And a large company was added to the Lord. So Barnabas went to Tarsus to look for Saul; and when he had found him, he brought him to Antioch. For a whole year they met with the Church, and taught a large company of people; and in Antioch the disciples were for the first time called Christians.
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Psalm 87: 1-3.4-5.6-7 (Psalm 117:1a)
R/. O praise the Lord, all you nations.
Or: Alleluia.
Founded by him on the holy mountain,
the Lord loves the gates of Sion,
more than all the dwellings of Jacob.
Of you are told glorious things, you, O city of God! R/.
“Rahab and Babylon I will count
among those who know me;
Of Tyre, Philistia, Ethiopia, it is told,
‘There was this one born. ’
But of Sion it shall be said,
‘Each one was born in her. ”’
He, the Most High, established it. R/.
R/. O praise the Lord, all you nations.
Or: Alleluia.
In his register of peoples the Lord writes,
“Here was this one born.”
The singers cry out in chorus,
“In you, all find their home.” R/.
ALLELUIA John 10:27
Alleluia. My sheep hear my voice, says the Lord; and I know them, and they follow me. Alleluia.
-GOSPEL-
“I and the Father are one.”
A reading from the holy Gospel according to John (John 10:22-30)
It was the feast of the Dedication at Jerusalem; it was winter, and Jesus was walking in the temple, in the portico of Solomon. So the Jews gathered round him and said to him, “How long will you keep us in suspense? If you are Christ, tell us plainly.” Jesus answered them, “I told you, and you do not believe. The works that I do in my Father’s name, they bear witness to me; but you do not believe, because you do not belong to my sheep. My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me; and I give them eternal life, and they shall never perish, and no one shall snatch them out of my hand. My Father, who has given them to me, is greater than all, and no one is able to snatch them out of the Father’s hand. I and the Father are one.”
The Gospel of the Lord.
TODAY'S REFLECTION
Jesus confronts each of us today with these startling words: “I told you, and you do not believe… but you do not believe, because you do not belong to my sheepfold.” To ‘believe’ in Jesus we need to ‘belong’ to him. In order to ‘belong’ to him, we need to ‘hear’ his voice and ‘know’ him. So, the process of discipleship is knowing, hearing, belonging and believing. This is also the process of ‘Christification’, or becoming another Christ. We see this in the life of Barnabas who was full of the Holy Spirit, and other early followers of Christ, especially those in Antioch, where they were called ‘Christians’ for the first time. Lord, help us to know you, hear you, belong to you and believe in you.
PERSONAL DEVOTIONAL: Day 2 May Devotion
Our Mother Mary stayed close to God all through her life and she bore fruits for Him who chose her to be the Mother of His only begotten Son.
We have different roles to play for God in this life and if we are going to play it well and bear good fruits for Him like our Mother Mary did, we must stay close to Jesus and draw our strength, wisdom and inspiration from Him. We stay close to Him in the liturgy of the word and the Eucharist.
Meditation: John 15:5
Prayer:
Oh God, you called me to stay close to your Son everyday so that I will bear fruits that will last, help me to disconnect from every unfruitful attachment in my life so that I will bear the fruit that will be pleasing to you as the Blessed Virgin Mary did. Amen.
Pray the Rosary,
Honour The Blessed Virgin Mary
M A Y D E V O T I O N
Program of Daily Events for May Devotion (Personal / Group)
O my God because you’re so good, I am very sorry that I have sinned against you and by the help of your grace I will not sin again.
O most pure heart of Mary, full of goodness, show your love towards us. Let the flame of your heart, O Mary, descend on all people. We love you immensely. Impress on our hearts true love so that we may long for you. O Mary, gentle and humble of heart, remember us when we sin. You know that all we sin. Grant that through your most pure and motherly heart, we may be healed from every spiritual sickness. Grant that we may always experience the goodness of your motherly heart, and that through the flame of your heart we may be converted. Amen.
(Begin with the invocation of the Holy Spirit: Come, O Holy Spirit, fill the heart……….
O Most Holy Virgin, and Our Mother, we listen with grief to the complaints of your immaculate Heart surrounded with the thorns placed therein at every moment by the blasphemies and ingratitude of ungrateful humanity. We are moved by the ardent desire of loving you as Our Mother and of promising a true devotion to your Immaculate Heart. We therefore kneel before you to manifest the sorrow we feel for the grievances that people cause you, and to atone by our prayers and sacrifices for the offenses with which they return your love. Obtain for them and for us the pardon of so many sins. Hasten the conversion of sinners that they may love Jesus Christ and cease to offend the Lord, already so much offended. Turn your eyes of mercy toward us, that we may love God with all our heart on earth and enjoy him forever in Heaven.
6, Talk on Blessed Virgin Mary (optional).
Remember, O most gracious Virgin Mary, that never was it known that anyone who fled to thy protection, implored thy help, or sought thine intercession was left unaided Inspired by this confidence, I fly unto thee, O Virgin of virgins, my mother; to thee do I come, before thee I stand, sinful and sorrowful. O Mother of the Word Incarnate, despise not my petitions, but in thy mercy hear and answer me. Amen.
Wednesday May 3, 2023
SS PHILIP AND JAMES, AP (FEAST)
Office: Proper
Mass prop. Gloria, Preface of Apostles
Vestment: Red
Today’s Rosary: The Glorious Mysteries
ENTRANCE ANTIPHON
These are the holy men whom the Lord chose in his own sheer love; and he gave them eternal glory, alleluia.
COLLECT
O God, who gladden us each year with the feast day of the Apostles Philip and James, grant us, through their prayers, a share in the Passion and Resurrection of your Only Begotten Son, so that we may merit to behold you for eternity. Through our Lord. . .
-FIRST READING-
The Lord appeared to James, then to all the Apostles.
A reading from the first Letter of Saint Paul to the Corinthians (1 Corinthians 15:1-8)
I would remind you, brethren, in what terms I preached to you the gospel, which you received, in which you stand, by which you are saved, if you hold it fast — unless you believed in vain. For I delivered to you as of first importance what I also received, that Christ died for our sins in accordance with the Scriptures, that he was buried, that he was raised on the third day in accordance with the Scriptures, and that he appeared to Cephas, then to the Twelve. Then he appeared to more than five hundred brethren at one time, most of whom are still alive, though some have fallen asleep. Then he appeared to James, then to all the apostles. Last of all, as to one untimely born, he appeared also to me.
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Psalm 19: 19:2-3.4-5 (R. 5a)
R/. Their sound goes forth through all the earth.
Or: Alleluia.
The heavens declare the glory of God,
and the firmament proclaims the work of his hands.
Day unto day conveys the message,
and night unto night imparts the knowledge. R/.
R/. Their sound goes forth through all the earth.
Or: Alleluia.
No speech, no word, whose voice goes unheeded;
their sound goes forth through all the earth,
their message to the utmost bounds of the world. R/.
ALLELUIA John 14:6b, 9c
Alleluia. I am the way, and the truth, and the life, says the Lord; Philip, he who has seen me has seen the Father. Alleluia.
-GOSPEL-
“Have I been with you so long and yet you do not know me? ”
A reading from the holy Gospel according to John (John 14:6-14)
At that time: Jesus said to Thomas, “I am the way, and the truth, and the life; no one comes to the Father, but by me. If you had known me, you would have known my Father also; henceforth you know him and have seen him.” Philip said to him, “Lord, show us the Father, and we shall be satisfied.” Jesus said to him, “Have I been with you so long, and yet you do not know me, Philip? He who has seen me has seen the Father; how can you say, ‘Show us the Father’? Do you not believe that I am in the Father and the Father is in me? The words that I say to you I do not speak on my own authority; but the Father who dwells in me does his works. Believe me that I am in the Father and the Father is in me; or else believe me for the sake of the works themselves. “Truly, truly, I say to you, he who believes in me will also do the works that I do; and greater works than these will he do, because I go to the Father. Whatever you ask in my name, I will do it, that the Father may be glorified in the Son; if you ask anything in my name, I will do it.”
The Gospel of the Lord.
PRAYER OF THE FAITHFUL
Celebrant:
As we celebrate today the feast of Saints Philip and James, let us ask God to listen to our petitions, as we trust in their intercessions on our behalf.
For the ministers of the Church: that God may strengthen our Pope, Bishops and priests in their faith and make them good and holy ministers of his word. Let us pray to the Lord.
For those in public authority: that they may give adequate care to internally displaced persons by providing the psychological and material assistance they need in order to rebuild their lives. Let us pray to the Lord.
For those preparing for the priesthood: that the Lord may fill their hearts with a true love for the church and the desire to please God in all their endeavours. Let us pray to the Lord.
For those present at this celebration: that God may give us the grace to seek him at all times and to have the enthusiasm to bear witness to the Gospel of Christ. Let us pray to the Lord.
For other intentions: (the sick, church projects or other activities).
For the dead, especially those of our parish community and family members: that they may find eternal rest with the Lord. Let us pray to the Lord.
We pray in silence for our private intentions.
Celebrant:
God our loving Father, grant that the heroic examples of saints Philip and James may inspire us towards loving you above all else. By their intercession, may you hear and answer our prayers. Through Christ our Lord.
R/. Amen.
TODAY'S REFLECTION
St Paul affirms that the truth of the resurrection of Christ is indubitable. It is the climax of our Christian faith and the fount of the hope of our salvation. Our personal belief in this divine reality must also be rooted in our own personal encounter with the risen Christ in the sacraments. It is in this personal encounter that for us Christ becomes the way, the truth and the life. Therefore our Christian faith must always have a personal dimension which creates room for a personal encounter with God. This divine intimacy can be strengthened by pious devotion to Blessed Virgin Mary, the saints, and daily meditations.
SS PHILIP AND JAMES, AP. (FEAST)
Today the Church celebrates the feast of two apostles, Philip and James. Their relics are kept together in the Church of the Twelve Apostles in Rome and, from the day of its dedication in 565, these two apostles have been celebrated together. Philip came from Bethsaida, on the shore of the Lake of Galilee. He was a disciple of John the Baptist and later became an apostle of Jesus. James, son of Alphaeus and cousin of the Lord, ruled the Church of Jerusalem, and probably authored the letter we find in the New Testament. He suffered martyrdom in the year 62.
PERSONAL DEVOTIONAL: Day 3 May Devotion
Our Mother Mary knew who Jesus is and she did not doubt that He could do something to change any difficult situation that is brought to Him in prayer.
She has shown us example at the wedding at Cana in Galilee that we should not be afraid to approach Jesus in prayer no matter the need we have, but we must have faith to believe that He can do something for us. Therefore, we must be people of faith who will always take our matter to Jesus in prayer trusting that He will answer us. Our Mother Mary can help us to connect to Jesus if we asked her for help.
Meditation: John 14:12-14
Prayer:
Heavenly Father, help me to always seek your face in prayer as our Mother Mary sought the help of Jesus at the wedding at Cana and may I find you when I seek you with my whole heart. Amen.
M A Y D E V O T I O N
Program of Daily Events for May Devotion (Personal / Group)
O my God because you’re so good, I am very sorry that I have sinned against you and by the help of your grace I will not sin again.
O most pure heart of Mary, full of goodness, show your love towards us. Let the flame of your heart, O Mary, descend on all people. We love you immensely. Impress on our hearts true love so that we may long for you. O Mary, gentle and humble of heart, remember us when we sin. You know that all we sin. Grant that through your most pure and motherly heart, we may be healed from every spiritual sickness. Grant that we may always experience the goodness of your motherly heart, and that through the flame of your heart we may be converted. Amen.
(Begin with the invocation of the Holy Spirit: Come, O Holy Spirit, fill the heart……….
O Most Holy Virgin, and Our Mother, we listen with grief to the complaints of your immaculate Heart surrounded with the thorns placed therein at every moment by the blasphemies and ingratitude of ungrateful humanity. We are moved by the ardent desire of loving you as Our Mother and of promising a true devotion to your Immaculate Heart. We therefore kneel before you to manifest the sorrow we feel for the grievances that people cause you, and to atone by our prayers and sacrifices for the offenses with which they return your love. Obtain for them and for us the pardon of so many sins. Hasten the conversion of sinners that they may love Jesus Christ and cease to offend the Lord, already so much offended. Turn your eyes of mercy toward us, that we may love God with all our heart on earth and enjoy him forever in Heaven.
Remember, O most gracious Virgin Mary, that never was it known that anyone who fled to thy protection, implored thy help, or sought thine intercession was left unaided Inspired by this confidence, I fly unto thee, O Virgin of virgins, my mother; to thee do I come, before thee I stand, sinful and sorrowful. O Mother of the Word Incarnate, despise not my petitions, but in thy mercy hear and answer me. Amen.
Thursday May 4, 2023
4th Week of Easter
Office: Psalter Week 4
Mass of the day; Preface of Easter
Vestment: White
Today’s Rosary: The Luminous Mysteries
ENTRANCE ANTIPHON cf. Ps68:8-9. 20
O God, when you went forth before your people, marching with them and living among them, the earth trembled, heavens poured down rain, alleluia.
COLLECT
O God, who restore human nature to yet greater dignity than at its beginnings, look upon the amazing mystery of your loving kindness, and in those you have chosen to make new through the wonder of rebirth, may you preserve the gifts of your enduring grace and blessing. Through our Lord...
-FIRST READING-
Of David’s posterity God has brought to Israel a Saviour, Jesus.
A reading from the Acts of the Apostles (Acts 13:13-25)
Paul and his company set sail from Paphos, and came to Perga in Pamphylia. And John left them and returned to Jerusalem; but they passed on from Perga and came to Antioch of Pisidia. And on the Sabbath day they went into the synagogue and sat down. After the reading of the law and the prophets, the rulers of the synagogue sent to them, saying, “Brethren, if you have any word of exhortation for the people, say it.” So Paul stood up, and motioning with his hand said: “Men of Israel, and you that fear God, listen. The God of this people Israel chose our fathers and made the people great during their stay in the land of Egypt, and with uplifted arm he led them out of it. And for about forty years he bore with them in the wilderness. And when he had destroyed seven nations in the land of Canaan, he gave them their land as an inheritance, for about four hundred and fifty years. And after that he gave them judges until Samuel the prophet. Then they asked for a king; and God gave them Saul the son of Kish, a man of the tribe of Benjamin, for forty years. And when he had removed him, he raised up David to be their king; of whom he testified and said, ‘I have found in David, the son of Jesse, a man after my heart, who will do all my will.' Of this man’s posterity God has brought to Israel a Saviour, Jesus, as he promised. Before his coming John had preached a baptism of repentance to all the people of Israel. And as John was finishing his course, he said, ‘What do you suppose that I am? I am not he. No, but after me one is coming, the sandals of whose feet I am not worthy to untie.”’
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Psalm 89:2-3.21-22.25 and 27 (R. 2a)
R/. I will sing forever of your mercies, O Lord.
Or: Alleluia.
I will sing forever of your mercies, O Lord;
through all ages my mouth will proclaim your fidelity.
I have declared your mercy is established forever;
your fidelity stands firm as the heavens. R/.
I have found my servant David,
and with my holy oil anointed him.
My hand shall always be with him,
and my arm shall make him strong. R/.
R/. I will sing forever of your mercies, O Lord.
Or: Alleluia.
My mercy and my faithfulness shall be with him;
by my name his might shall be exalted.
He will call out to me, ‘You are my father,
my God, the rock of my salvation.’ R/.
ALLELUIA Revelation 1:5ac
Alleluia. Jesus Christ, you are a faithful witness, the first-born of the dead; you have loved us and washed our sins in your blood. Alleluia.
-GOSPEL-
“He who receives any one whom I send receives me.”
A reading from the holy Gospel according to John (John 13: 16-20)
[When Jesus had washed the feet of his disciples, he said to them,] “Truly, truly, I say to you, a servant is not greater than his master; nor is he who is sent greater than he who sent him. If you know these things, blessed are you if you do them. I am not speaking of you all; I know whom I have chosen; it is that the Scripture may be fulfilled, ‘He who ate my bread has lifted his heel against me.’ I tell you this now, before it takes place, that when it does take place you may believe that I am he. Truly, truly, I say to you, he who receives any one whom I send receives me; and he who receives me receives him who sent me.”
This is the word of the Lord.
TODAY'S REFLECTION
Jesus speaks of his own betrayal in a veiled manner. The context is the last supper during which Jesus washed his disciples’ feet, demonstrating the “he came not to be served, but to serve and give his life as a ransom for many”. To be a disciple of Jesus means to be a servant like the master, to reach out to people in love, compassion and kindness. To be a disciple means to be ready for betrayal, rejection, persecution and even death. He empowers us in our weakness, he accompanies us in our loneliness, he welcomes us in our moments of rejection, and he fills us with his joy in our sadness. Lord, and master, we thank you for knowing our weakness and carrying our sufferings.
PERSONAL DEVOTIONAL: Day 4 of May Devotion
Our Mother Mary was chosen by God for the purpose of being the Mother of His only begotten Son and she accepted this role and bore a lasting fruit for God.
Our responsibility in this life is to do God's will and to bear fruits of love for Him. God will make demands of us from time to time in this life and when we submit our will and accept His own will we will be able to find the joy and inner peace that our Mother Mary found when she let God's will be done in her life. Our Mother Mary is a sure help for you when you desire to do God's will.
Prayer
Lord Jesus Christ, thank you for choosing me to be your child, help me to say yes to you always as your Mother did and may the will of God for my life come to perfect fulfilment. Through the intercession of our blessed Mother Mary, May Almighty God bless you: the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit. Amen.
Blessings for the New Week
Heavenly Father, I woke up this morning with joy in my heart for the many blessings you have bestowed on me. Thank you for all you have done and may everything in me give glory to your name.
Let your Holy Spirit be my guide and help as this new day begins, and may I do good to all who come around me with the good you have given me.
Keep me safe from harm. Bless my family, friends, well-wishers and all those who are seriously in need of your help and may this day and this new week be favourable to us. Plant me like a tree by the streams of water, may I yield abundant of fruits and may the works of my hand prosper (Psalm 1). Open my heart so that I will hear your word and obey your commandments.
Good morning dearest friend. May your hard work in this new week bring you multiple blessings and favours. Amen. May Almighty God bless you: the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit. Amen.
M A Y D E V O T I O N
Program of Daily Events for May Devotion (Personal / Group)
O my God because you’re so good, I am very sorry that I have sinned against you and by the help of your grace I will not sin again.
O most pure heart of Mary, full of goodness, show your love towards us. Let the flame of your heart, O Mary, descend on all people. We love you immensely. Impress on our hearts true love so that we may long for you. O Mary, gentle and humble of heart, remember us when we sin. You know that all we sin. Grant that through your most pure and motherly heart, we may be healed from every spiritual sickness. Grant that we may always experience the goodness of your motherly heart, and that through the flame of your heart we may be converted. Amen.
(Begin with the invocation of the Holy Spirit: Come, O Holy Spirit, fill the heart……….
O Most Holy Virgin, and Our Mother, we listen with grief to the complaints of your immaculate Heart surrounded with the thorns placed therein at every moment by the blasphemies and ingratitude of ungrateful humanity. We are moved by the ardent desire of loving you as Our Mother and of promising a true devotion to your Immaculate Heart. We therefore kneel before you to manifest the sorrow we feel for the grievances that people cause you, and to atone by our prayers and sacrifices for the offenses with which they return your love. Obtain for them and for us the pardon of so many sins. Hasten the conversion of sinners that they may love Jesus Christ and cease to offend the Lord, already so much offended. Turn your eyes of mercy toward us, that we may love God with all our heart on earth and enjoy him forever in Heaven.
Remember, O most gracious Virgin Mary, that never was it known that anyone who fled to thy protection, implored thy help, or sought thine intercession was left unaided Inspired by this confidence, I fly unto thee, O Virgin of virgins, my mother; to thee do I come, before thee I stand, sinful and sorrowful. O Mother of the Word Incarnate, despise not my petitions, but in thy mercy hear and answer me. Amen.
Friday May 5, 2023
Office: Psalter Week 4
Mass of the day; Preface of Easter
4th Week of Easter
Vestment: White
Today’s Rosary: The Sorrowful Mysteries
ENTRANCE ANTIPHON Rv 5:9-10
You have redeemed us, Lord, by your Blood, from every tribe and tongue and people and nation, and have made us into a kingdom, priests for our God, alleluia.
COLLECT
O God, author of our freedom and of our salvation, listen to the voice of our pleading, and grant that those you have redeemed by the shedding of your Son’s Blood, may have life through you and, under your protection, rejoice for ever unharmed. Through our Lord. . .
-FIRST READING-
Behold, we turn to the Gentiles.
A reading from the Acts of the Apostles (Acts 13:26-33)
In those days: (When Paul came to Antioch of Pisidia, he said in the synagogue,) “Brethren, sons of the family of Abraham, and those among you that fear God, to us has been sent the message of this salvation. For those who live in Jerusalem and their rulers, because they did not recognize him nor understand the utterances of the prophets which are read every Sabbath, fulfilled these by condemning him. Though they could charge him with nothing deserving death, yet they asked Pilate to have him killed. And when they had fulfilled all that was written of him, they took him down from the tree, and laid him in a tomb. But God raised him from the dead; and for many days he appeared to those who came up with him from Galilee to Jerusalem, who are now his witnesses to the people. And we bring you the good news that what God promised to the fathers, this he has fulfilled to us their children by raising Jesus; as also it is written in the second psalm, ‘You are my Son, today I have begotten you.”’
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Psalm 2:6-7.8-9.10-12a (R. 7bc)
R/. You are my son. It is I who have begotten you this day.
Or: Alleluia.
“It is I who have appointed my king
on Sion, my holy mountain.”
I will announce the decree of the Lord:
The Lord said to me, “You are my Son.
It is I who have begotten you this day.” R/.
“Ask of me and I will give you
the nations as your inheritance,
and the ends of the earth as your possession.
With a rod of Iron you will rule them;
like a potter’s jar you will shatter them.” R/.
R/. You are my son. It is I who have begotten you this day.
Or: Alleluia.
“So now, O kings, understand;
take warning, rulers of the earth.
Serve the Lord with fear;
exult with trembling, pay him your homage.” R/.
ALLELUIA John 14:6
Alleluia. I am the way, and the truth, and the life, says the Lord; no one comes to the Father, but by me. Alleluia.
-GOSPEL-
“I am the way, and the truth, and the life.”
A reading from the holy Gospel according to John (John 14:1-6)
At that time: Jesus said to his disciples, “Let not your hearts be troubled; believe in God, believe also in me. In my Father’s house are many rooms; if it were not so, would I have told you that I go to prepare a place for you? And when I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and will take you to myself, that where I am you may be also. And you know the way where I am going.” Thomas said to him, “Lord, we do not know where you are going; how can we know the way?” Jesus said to him, “I am the way, and the truth, and the life; no one comes to the’ Father, but by me.”
The Gospel of the Lord.
TODAY'S REFLECTION
Jesus is the journey, the aim and the strength for the journey. He is the passage, the passage through his Death and Resurrection. Through this passage he goes to prepare a place for us, to open the way for our communion with the Father. Christ is the absolutely new and unique way open for humanity to pass over from earthly life to heavenly life. He is the only and definitive way that leads to God; therefore he, Christ, is unique. To reach the home of the Father it is not important to know where it is; but it is necessary to know the way, and that way is Christ. He is the way because his is the revelation of the truth of the Father. The way to truth and life can be found only in him.
PERSONAL DEVOTIONAL: Day 5 May Devotion
Our Mother Mary opened her heart to the Holy Spirit and He worked in her and became her guide throughout her life.
We cannot do God's will and follow His path without the help of the Holy Spirit. Infact, the Holy Spirit should be our guide and companion on a daily basis, and when that is the case we will be able to fulfil our God given mission and purpose here on earth. Open your heart to the Holy Spirit this day as our Mother Mary did and you will definitely hit your mark and target in your spiritual Journey.
Prayer:
Holy Spirit of God, come into my life and work in me as you worked in the life of the Blessed Virgin Mary. Break me, melt me, move me, use me, direct me in all I do to the greater glory of the Blessed Trinity. Amen. Through the intercession of our Blessed Mother Mary, May Almighty God bless you: the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit. Amen.
M A Y D E V O T I O N
Program of Daily Events for May Devotion (Personal / Group)
O my God because you’re so good, I am very sorry that I have sinned against you and by the help of your grace I will not sin again.
O most pure heart of Mary, full of goodness, show your love towards us. Let the flame of your heart, O Mary, descend on all people. We love you immensely. Impress on our hearts true love so that we may long for you. O Mary, gentle and humble of heart, remember us when we sin. You know that all we sin. Grant that through your most pure and motherly heart, we may be healed from every spiritual sickness. Grant that we may always experience the goodness of your motherly heart, and that through the flame of your heart we may be converted. Amen.
(Begin with the invocation of the Holy Spirit: Come, O Holy Spirit, fill the heart……….
O Most Holy Virgin, and Our Mother, we listen with grief to the complaints of your immaculate Heart surrounded with the thorns placed therein at every moment by the blasphemies and ingratitude of ungrateful humanity. We are moved by the ardent desire of loving you as Our Mother and of promising a true devotion to your Immaculate Heart. We therefore kneel before you to manifest the sorrow we feel for the grievances that people cause you, and to atone by our prayers and sacrifices for the offenses with which they return your love. Obtain for them and for us the pardon of so many sins. Hasten the conversion of sinners that they may love Jesus Christ and cease to offend the Lord, already so much offended. Turn your eyes of mercy toward us, that we may love God with all our heart on earth and enjoy him forever in Heaven.
Remember, O most gracious Virgin Mary, that never was it known that anyone who fled to thy protection, implored thy help, or sought thine intercession was left unaided Inspired by this confidence, I fly unto thee, O Virgin of virgins, my mother; to thee do I come, before thee I stand, sinful and sorrowful. O Mother of the Word Incarnate, despise not my petitions, but in thy mercy hear and answer me. Amen.
Saturday May 6, 2023
4th Week of Easter
Office: Psalter Week 4
Mass of the day
Vestment: White
Today’s Rosary: The Joyful Mysteries
Vespers I of the 5th Sunday of Easter
ENTRANCE ANTIPHON cf. 1 Pt 2:9
O chosen people, proclaim the mighty works of him, who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light, alleluia.
COLLECT
O God, who in the celebration of Easter graciously give to the world the healing of heavenly remedies; show benevolence to your Church, that our present observance may benefit us for eternal life. Through our Lord. . .
-FIRST READING-
Behold, we turn to the Gentiles.
A reading from the Acts of the Apostles (Acts 13:44-52)
The next Sabbath almost the whole city gathered together to hear the word of God. But when the Jews saw the multitudes, they were filled with jealousy, and contradicted what was spoken by Paul, and reviled him. And Paul and Barnabas spoke out boldly, saying, “It was necessary that the word of God should be spoken first to you. Since you thrust it from you, and judge yourselves unworthy of eternal life, behold, we turn to the Gentiles. For so the Lord has commanded us, saying, ‘I have set you to be a light for the Gentiles, that you may bring salvation to the uttermost parts of the earth.”’ And when the Gentiles heard this, they were glad and glorified the word of God; and as many as were ordained to eternal life believed. And the word of the Lord spread throughout all the region. But the Jews incited the devout women of high standing and the leading men of the city, and stirred up persecution against Paul and Barnabas, and drove them out of their district. But they shook off the dust from their feet against them, and went to Iconium. And the disciples were filled with joy and with the Holy Spirit.
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Psalm 98: 1 .2-3ab.3cd-4 (R. 3cd)
R/. All the ends of the earth have seen the salvation of our God.
Or: Alleluia.
O sing a new song to the Lord,
for he has worked wonders.
His right hand and his holy arm
have brought salvation. R/.
The Lord has made known his salvation,
has shown his deliverance to the nations.
He has remembered his merciful love
and his truth for the house of Israel. R/.
R/. All the ends of the earth have seen the salvation of our God.
Or: Alleluia.
All the ends of the earth have seen
the salvation of our God.
Shout to the Lord, all the earth;
break forth into joyous song,
and sing out your praise. R/.
ALLELUIA John 8:31b-32
Alleluia. If you continue in my word, you are truly my disciples, and you will know the truth, says the Lord. Alleluia.
-GOSPEL-
“He who has seen me has seen the Father.”
A reading from the holy Gospel according to John (John 14:7-14)
At that time: Jesus said to his disciples, “If you had known me, you would have known my Father also; henceforth you know him and have seen him.” Philip said to him, “Lord, show us the Father, and we shall be satisfied.” Jesus said to him, “Have I been with you so long, and yet you do not know me, Philip? He who has seen me has seen the Father; how can you say, ‘show us the Father’? Do you not believe that I am in the Father and the Father is in me? The words that I say to you I do not speak on my own authority; but the Father who dwells in me does his works. Believe me that I am in the Father and the Father is in me; or else believe me for the sake of the works themselves. “Truly, truly, I say to you, he who believes in me will also do the works that I do; and greater works than these will he do, because I go to the Father. Whatever you ask in my name, I will do it, that the Father may be glorified in the Son; if you ask anything in my name, I will do it.”
The Gospel of the Lord.
TODAY'S REFLECTION
Jesus is our access to the Father through his Death and Resurrection. The truth and the life he communicates are not purely future realities; the knowledge of Christ realizes here and now the knowledge of the Father. And we acquire such knowledge through faith in his word. The revelation of Christ as salvation is also the manifestation of the mystery of his being. At the level of their very being there is inalienable communion between the Father and the Son. To see, to know and to believe are practically synonyms in the Gospel of John. To know Christ the Son is to know the Father Himself, and through our faith in Christ we enter into communion with the Father. To know the truth is to know Jesus the Son of the Father.
PERSONAL DEVOTIONAL: Day 6 of May Devotion
Every profession or vocation in life has a mark of identity. As Christians we have no other true identity except the identity of love which Jesus has laid down for us as an example by coming and dying for us on the cross of Calvary. We have the mandate from Jesus who chose us to go out and bear fruits, to love one another and bear the fruits of love and not hatred everywhere.
It is only by bearing the fruit of love that we can truly represent Him who has chosen us to work for Him and this can only happen if we submit ourselves under His authority like Mary did.
God has chosen us to go out and bear fruits and we can achieve this if we abide in Him and make sure that we draw our nutrient from Him. It is through the fruit we bear that the world will know whether we belong to Christ or not.
M A Y D E V O T I O N
Program of Daily Events for May Devotion (Personal / Group)
O my God because you’re so good, I am very sorry that I have sinned against you and by the help of your grace I will not sin again.
O most pure heart of Mary, full of goodness, show your love towards us. Let the flame of your heart, O Mary, descend on all people. We love you immensely. Impress on our hearts true love so that we may long for you. O Mary, gentle and humble of heart, remember us when we sin. You know that all we sin. Grant that through your most pure and motherly heart, we may be healed from every spiritual sickness. Grant that we may always experience the goodness of your motherly heart, and that through the flame of your heart we may be converted. Amen.
(Begin with the invocation of the Holy Spirit: Come, O Holy Spirit, fill the heart……….
O Most Holy Virgin, and Our Mother, we listen with grief to the complaints of your immaculate Heart surrounded with the thorns placed therein at every moment by the blasphemies and ingratitude of ungrateful humanity. We are moved by the ardent desire of loving you as Our Mother and of promising a true devotion to your Immaculate Heart. We therefore kneel before you to manifest the sorrow we feel for the grievances that people cause you, and to atone by our prayers and sacrifices for the offenses with which they return your love. Obtain for them and for us the pardon of so many sins. Hasten the conversion of sinners that they may love Jesus Christ and cease to offend the Lord, already so much offended. Turn your eyes of mercy toward us, that we may love God with all our heart on earth and enjoy him forever in Heaven.
Remember, O most gracious Virgin Mary, that never was it known that anyone who fled to thy protection, implored thy help, or sought thy intercession was left unaided Inspired by this confidence, I fly unto thee, O Virgin of virgins, my mother; to thee do I come, before thee I stand, sinful and sorrowful. O Mother of the Word Incarnate, despise not my petitions, but in thy mercy hear and answer me. Amen.
Sunday May 7, 2023
5th Sunday of Eater
Office: Psalter Week 1,. Te Deum
Mass prop. Gloria. Creed. Preface of Easter
V1-, R1-, R2-,
Vestment: White
Today’s Rosary: The Glorious Mysteries
Vespers II of the 5th Sunday of Easter
THEME OF THE SUNDAY: The Many Ways of Giving up One’s Life.
The central theme of today’s readings is the “many rooms” present in the house of the Father, that is, the many ways we can help each other. In the gospel Jesus says that the way to the Father is the service of our brothers and sisters. The second reading uses the image of a new building and the first reading describes how the community of Jerusalem solved a problem. Both readings help us to deepen our understanding of the message.
ENTRANCE ANTIPHON
O sing a new song to the Lord, for he has worked wonders; in the sight of the nations he has shown his deliverance, alleluia.
The Gloria in excels is (Glory to God in the highest) is said.
COLLECT:
Almighty ever-living God, constantly accomplish the paschal mystery within us, that those you were pleased to make new in Holy Baptism may, under your protection care, bear much fruits and come to the joys of eternal. Through our Lord…
-FIRST READING-
“They picked out seven men full of the Holy Spirit.”
A reading from the Acts of the Apostles (Acts 6: 1-7)
In these days when the disciples were increasing in number, the Hellenists murmured against the Hebrews because their widows were neglected in the daily distribution. And the Twelve summoned the body of the disciples and said, “It is not right that we should give up preaching the word of God to serve tables. Therefore, brethren, pick out from among you seven men of good repute, full of the Spirit and of wisdom, whom we may appoint to this duty. But we will devote ourselves to prayer and to the ministry of the word.” And what they said pleased the whole multitude, and they chose Stephen, a man full of faith and of the Holy Spirit, and Philip, and Prochorus, and Nicanor, and Timon, and Parmenas, and Nicolaus, a proselyte of Antioch. These they set before the apostles, and they prayed and laid their hands upon them. And the word of God increased; and the number of the disciples multiplied greatly in Jerusalem, and a great many of the priests were obedient to the faith.
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Psalm 33:1-2.4-5.18-19 (R. 22)
R/. May your merciful love be upon us, as we hope in you, O Lord.
Or: Alleluia.
Ring out your joy to the Lord, O you just;
for praise is fitting for the upright.
Give thanks to the Lord upon the harp;
with a ten-stringed lute sing him songs. R/.
For the word of the Lord is faithful,
and all his works to be trusted.
The Lord loves justice and right,
and his merciful love fills the earth. R/.
R/. May your merciful love be upon us, as we hope in you, O Lord.
Or: Alleluia.
Yes, the Lord’s eyes are on those who fear him,
who hope in his merciful love,
to rescue their souls from death,
to keep them alive in famine. R/.
-SECOND READING-
“But you are a chosen race, a royal priesthood.”
A reading from the first Letter of Saint Peter (1 Peter 2:4-9)
Beloved: Come to the Lord, to that living stone, rejected by men but in God’s sight chosen and precious; and like living stones be yourselves built into a spiritual house, to be a holy priesthood, to offer spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God through Jesus Christ. For it stands in Scripture: “Behold, I am laying in Zion a stone, a cornerstone chosen and precious, and he who believes in him will not be put to shame.” To you therefore who believe, he is precious, but for those who do not believe, “The very stone which the builders rejected has become the cornerstone,” and “A stone that will make men stumble, a rock that will make them fall”; for they stumble because they disobey the word, as they were destined to do. But you are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God’s own people, that you may declare the wonderful deeds of him who called you out of darkness into his marvellous light.
The word of the Lord.
ALLELUIA John 14:6
Alleluia. I am the way, and the truth, and the life, says the Lord; no one comes to the Father, but by me. Alleluia.
-GOSPEL-
“I am the way, and the truth, and the life.”
A reading from the holy Gospel according to John (John 14: 1- 12)
In those days: Jesus said to his disciples, “Let not your hearts be troubled; believe in God, believe also in me. In my Father’s house are many rooms; if it were not so, would I have told you that I go to prepare a place for you? And when I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and will take you to myself, that where I am you may be also. And you know the way where I am going.” Thomas said to him, “Lord, we do not know where you are going; how can we know the way?” Jesus said to him, “I am the way, and the truth, and the life; no one comes to the Father, but by me. If you had known me, you would have known my Father also; henceforth you know him and have seen him.” Philip said to him, “Lord, show us the Father, and we shall be satisfied.” Jesus said to him, “Have I been with you so long, and yet you do not know me, Philip? He who has seen me has seen the Father; how can you say, ‘Show us the Father’? Do you not believe that I am in the Father and the Father is in me? The words that I say to you I do not speak on my own authority; but the Father who dwells in me does his works. Believe me that I am in the Father and the Father is in me; or else believe me for the sake of the works themselves. “Truly, truly, I say to you, he who believes in me will also do the works that I do; and greater works than these will he do, because I go to the Father.”
The Gospel of the Lord.
PRAYER OF THE FAITHFUL
Celebrant:
Christ is the way, the truth, and the life. Let us ask him for the grace to faithfully follow the way he established, observe the truth he laid down and imitate the life he led.
For N…, our Pope, N…, our Bishop, all Bishops, priests and religious, that as Jesus has shown them the way, taught them the truth and led them to life in him, they may always live in Christ and bear witness to him. Let us pray to the Lord.
For all leaders in the government and traditional settings: that as God has chosen them to rule over his people, they may be endowed with the requisite wisdom to bring about positive change in society. Let us pray to the Lord.
For those who doubt their faith in Christ: that may be enlightened by the glory of christ’s Resurrection and become more aware of the loving presence of God in their lives. Let us pray to the Lord.
For ourselves: that we who bear the name of Christ may strive to reveal him to the world. Let us pray to the Lord.
For other intentions: (the sick, church projects or other activities).
For the dead, especially those of our parish community and family members: that they may find eternal rest with the Lord. Let us pray to the Lord.
We pray in silence for our private intentions.
Celebrant:
God our Father, you made Christ our way, our truth and our life. May all who believe in Christ be filled with zeal to proclaim his Gospel and be witnesses of his love to our world. Through the same Christ our Lord.
R/. Amen.
PERSONAL DEVOTIONAL: Day 7 of May Devotion
Every situation we experience in life whether good or bad should be one that will make us to praise the name of Jesus and to witness for Him. We see how Stephen was stoned to death, Paul and Silas were beaten mercilessly and incarcerated into the prison. However, they channeled their pain into Joy and began to pray and sing and the Lord delivered them.
The power of Jesus can unbind and set free whoever is bound by any negative force in this life. All you need to do is to declare for Jesus and believe in Him and you will be saved. Whether in Joy or pain, make sure you are proclaiming Jesus and He will definitely make name for Himself through your situation and can touch the lives of those who listen to you.
There is power in praise and when you pray and praise God from the depth of your heart miracles will happen in an exceptional way. May the praise of the Lord fill your lips and may God intervene in your situation. Amen. And May the Almighty God bless you: the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit. Amen.
Meditation: Acts 16:22-34/Psalm 138/John 16:5-11
M A Y D E V O T I O N
Program of Daily Events for May Devotion (Personal / Group)
O my God because you’re so good, I am very sorry that I have sinned against you and by the help of your grace I will not sin again.
O most pure heart of Mary, full of goodness, show your love towards us. Let the flame of your heart, O Mary, descend on all people. We love you immensely. Impress on our hearts true love so that we may long for you. O Mary, gentle and humble of heart, remember us when we sin. You know that all we sin. Grant that through your most pure and motherly heart, we may be healed from every spiritual sickness. Grant that we may always experience the goodness of your motherly heart, and that through the flame of your heart we may be converted. Amen.
(Begin with the invocation of the Holy Spirit: Come, O Holy Spirit, fill the heart……….
O Most Holy Virgin, and Our Mother, we listen with grief to the complaints of your immaculate Heart surrounded with the thorns placed therein at every moment by the blasphemies and ingratitude of ungrateful humanity. We are moved by the ardent desire of loving you as Our Mother and of promising a true devotion to your Immaculate Heart. We therefore kneel before you to manifest the sorrow we feel for the grievances that people cause you, and to atone by our prayers and sacrifices for the offenses with which they return your love. Obtain for them and for us the pardon of so many sins. Hasten the conversion of sinners that they may love Jesus Christ and cease to offend the Lord, already so much offended. Turn your eyes of mercy toward us, that we may love God with all our heart on earth and enjoy him forever in Heaven.
Remember, O most gracious Virgin Mary, that never was it known that anyone who fled to thy protection, implored thy help, or sought thy intercession was left unaided Inspired by this confidence, I fly unto thee, O Virgin of virgins, my mother; to thee do I come, before thee I stand, sinful and sorrowful. O Mother of the Word Incarnate, despise not my petitions, but in thy mercy hear and answer me. Amen.
Monday May 8, 2023
Weekday of Easter (5)
Office: Psalter Week 1
Mass of the day; Preface of Easter
Vestment: White
Today’s Rosary: Joyful Mystery
ENTRANCE ANTIPHON
The Good Shepherd has risen, who laid down his life for his sheep, and willingly died for his flock, alleluia.
COLLECT
May your right hand, O Lord, we pray, encompass your family with perpetual help, so that, defended from all wickedness by the Resurrection of your Only Begotten Son, we may make our way by means of your heavenly gifts. Through our Lord...
-FIRST READING-
“We bring you good news, that you should turn from these vain things to a living God.”
A reading from the Acts of the Apostles (Acts 14:5 -18)
In those days: When an attempt was made [at Iconium] by both Gentiles and Jews, with their rulers, to molest Paul and Barnabas and to stone them, they learned of it and fled to Lystra and Derbe, cities of Lycaonia, and to the surrounding country; and there they preached the gospel. Now at Lystra there was a man sitting, who could not use his feet; he was a cripple from birth, who had never walked. He listened to Paul speaking; and Paul, looking intently at him and seeing that he had faith to be made well, said in a loud voice, “Stand upright on your feet.” And he sprang up and walked. And when the crowds saw what Paul had done, they lifted up their voices, saying in Lycaonian, “The gods have come down to us in the likeness of men!” Barnabas they called Zeus, and Paul, because he was the chief speaker, they called Hermes. And the priest of Zeus, whose temple was in front of the city, brought oxen and garlands to the gates and wanted to offer sacrifice with the people. But when the apostles Barnabas and Paul heard of it, they tore their garments and rushed out among the multitude, crying, “Men, why are you doing this? We also are men, of like nature with you, and bring you good news, that you should turn from these vain things to a living God who made the heaven and the earth and the sea and all that is in them. In past generations he allowed all the nations to walk in their own ways; yet he did not leave himself without witness, for he did good and gave you from heaven rains and fruitful seasons, satisfying your hearts with food and gladness.” With these words they scarcely restrained the people from offering sacrifice to them.
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Psalm 115:1-2.3-4. 15-16 (R. 1ab)
R/. Not to us, O Lord, but to your name give the glory.
Or: Alleluia.
Not to us, O Lord, not to us,
but to your name give the glory,
for your merciful love and fidelity.
Why should the nations say:
“Where is their God?” R/.
But our God is in the heavens;
he does whatever he wills.
Their idols are silver and gold,
the work of human hands. R/.
R/. Not to us, O Lord, but to your name give the glory.
Or: Alleluia.
May you be blest by the Lord,
the maker of heaven and earth.
The heavens, the heavens belong to the Lord,
but to the children of men, he has given the earth. R/.
ALLELUIA John 14:26
Alleluia. The Holy Spirit will teach you all things and bring to your remembrance all that I have said to you. Alleluia.
-GOSPEL-
The Holy Spirit whom the Father will send will teach you all things.
A reading from the holy Gospel according to John (John 14:21-26)
At that time: Jesus said to his disciples, “He who has my commandments and keeps them, he it is who loves me; and he who loves me will be loved by my Father, and I will love him and manifest myself to him.” Judas (not Iscariot) said to him, “Lord, how is it that you will manifest yourself to us, and not to the world?” Jesus answered him, “If a man loves me, he will keep my word, and my Father will love him, and we will come to him and make our home with him. He who does not love me does not keep my words; and the word which you hear is not mine but the Father’s who sent me. “These things I have spoken to you, while I am still with you. But the Counsellor, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, he will teach you all things, and bring to your remembrance all that I have said to you.”
The Gospel of the Lord.
TODAY'S REFLECTION
Jesus makes the assertion that keeping his commandments is equal to loving him. And loving him means being an object of the love of the father who, together with the Son, will make his home in us. To be the home of the Father and the Son and the spirit who proceeds from them, the Blessed Trinity! To have the Holy Trinity living in us! We are so precious as to be little homes for God to dwell in. God can dwell only where there is love, for God is love. Loving God means loving one another. All the commandments are summarized in this one word: love. To be a loving person means to be a home for God to dwell in. Barnabas and Paul show in today’s first reading what it means to be a dwelling place of God. Lord, cleanse me and make me pure so that I may be a worthy home for you.
Blessing for the new week
A very good morning to you my dearest friend. I hope your night was cool and you are ready to conquer this new week. May God lead you as you begins this new week and may His presence and glory shield you from every harm.
As God promised Jacob that he will go with him and not to leave him, I pray that he shall lead you to where you will find favour and pasture and your coming back to your home shall be in Joy and with lots of testimony. May the heavenly dew fall upon the labour of our hands so that it shall blossom and flourish super – abundantly.
Just maintain your stand before God in adoration and he will make everything well for you. Go out with faith, put in your best and let God surprise you with His blessings
Let the place of your encounter with God be the canter of your blessings May God be with you and help you to conquer the challenges that his week will bring. Have a wonderful week ahead. Amen.
PERSONAL DEVOTIONAL: Day 8 May Devotion
The power of prayer and praise can never be overemphasized and it is something we see in the life of our Mother Mary, we are expected to let the Spirit of prayer and praise possess us.
She was very apt and sincere in her praise to God. She sang the magnificat in thanksgiving to God for all He has done in her life (Luke 1:46-55). We must learn from her to be children of praise no matter the circumstances or situations we may pass through in life both good and bad. Make sure the praise of the Lord is on your lips and He will definitely make a way for you.
Meditation: Acts 16:22-34
Prayer
Heavenly Father, pour out your Spirit upon me so that He will help me to praise you in good times and in bad. May my prayer and praise win souls to you and may it make your glory to be made manifest in my life. Amen. And May the Almighty God bless you: the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit. Amen.
M A Y D E V O T I O N
Program of Daily Events for May Devotion (Personal / Group)
O my God because you’re so good, I am very sorry that I have sinned against you and by the help of your grace I will not sin again.
O most pure heart of Mary, full of goodness, show your love towards us. Let the flame of your heart, O Mary, descend on all people. We love you immensely. Impress on our hearts true love so that we may long for you. O Mary, gentle and humble of heart, remember us when we sin. You know that all we sin. Grant that through your most pure and motherly heart, we may be healed from every spiritual sickness. Grant that we may always experience the goodness of your motherly heart, and that through the flame of your heart we may be converted. Amen.
(Begin with the invocation of the Holy Spirit: Come, O Holy Spirit, fill the heart……….
O Most Holy Virgin, and Our Mother, we listen with grief to the complaints of your immaculate Heart surrounded with the thorns placed therein at every moment by the blasphemies and ingratitude of ungrateful humanity. We are moved by the ardent desire of loving you as Our Mother and of promising a true devotion to your Immaculate Heart. We therefore kneel before you to manifest the sorrow we feel for the grievances that people cause you, and to atone by our prayers and sacrifices for the offenses with which they return your love. Obtain for them and for us the pardon of so many sins. Hasten the conversion of sinners that they may love Jesus Christ and cease to offend the Lord, already so much offended. Turn your eyes of mercy toward us, that we may love God with all our heart on earth and enjoy him forever in Heaven.
Remember, O most gracious Virgin Mary, that never was it known that anyone who fled to thy protection, implored thy help, or sought thy intercession was left unaided Inspired by this confidence, I fly unto thee, O Virgin of virgins, my mother; to thee do I come, before thee I stand, sinful and sorrowful. O Mother of the Word Incarnate, despise not my petitions, but in thy mercy hear and answer me. Amen.
Tuesday May 9, 2023
Weekday of Easter (5)
Office: Psalter Week 1
Mass of the day; Preface of Easter
Vestment: White
Today’s Rosary: Sorrowful Mystery
ENTRANCE ANTIPHON Rv 19:5; 12: 10
Sing praise to our God, all you who fear God, both small and great, for now salvation and strength have come, and the power of his Christ, alleluia.
COLLECT
O God, who restore us to eternal life in the Resurrection of Christ, grant your people constancy in faith and hope, that we may never doubt the promises of which we have learned from you. Through our Lord...
-FIRST READING-
“They gathered the Church together and declared all that God had done with them.”
A reading from the Acts of the Apostles (Acts 14: 19-28)
In those days: Jews came [to Lystra] from Antioch and Iconium; and having persuaded the people, they stoned Paul and dragged him out of the city, supposing that he was dead. But when the disciples gathered about him, he rose up and entered the city; and on the next day he went on with Barnabas to Derbe. When they had preached the gospel to that city and had made many disciples, they returned to Lystra and to Iconium and to Antioch, strengthening the souls of the disciples, exhorting them to continue in the faith, and saying that through many tribulations we must enter the kingdom of God. And when they had appointed elders for them in every Church, with prayer and fasting, they committed them to the Lord in whom they believed. Then they passed through Pisidia, and came to Pamphylia. And when they had spoken the word in Perga, they went down to Attalia; and from there they sailed to Antioch, where they had been commended to the grace of God for the work which they had fulfilled. And when they arrived, they gathered the Church together and declared all that God had done with them, and how he had opened a door of faith to the Gentiles. And they remained no little time with the disciples.
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Psalm 145:10-11. 12-13ab.21 (R. see 12a)
R/. Your friends make known, O Lord, the glory of your reign.
Or: Alleluia.
All your works shall thank you, O Lord,
and all your faithful ones bless you.
They shall speak of the glory of your reign,
and declare your mighty deeds. R/.
They shall make known your might to
the children of men,
and the glorious splendour of your reign.
Your kingdom is an everlasting kingdom;
your rule endures for all generations. R/.
Or: Alleluia.
Let my mouth speak the praise of the Lord;
let all flesh bless his holy name
forever, for ages unending. R/.
ALLELUIA Luke 24:46, 26
Alleluia. Christ had to suffer and to rise from the dead, and so enter into his glory. Alleluia.
-GOSPEL-
“My peace I give to you.”
A reading from the holy Gospel according to John (John 14:27-31a)
At that time: Jesus said to his disciples, “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid. You heard me say to you, ‘I go away, and I will come to you.’ If you loved me, you would have rejoiced, because I go to the Father; for the Father is greater than I. And now I have told you before it takes place, so that when it does take place, you may believe. I will no longer talk much with you, for the ruler of this world is coming. He has no power over me; but I do as the Father has commanded me, so that the world may know that I love the Father.”
The Gospel of the Lord.
TODAY'S REFLECTION
In today’s first reading Paul reminds the faithful to continue in faith despite persecutions because it is through many tribulations that we can enter the kingdom of God. Paul, Barnabas and the Christian community keep their faith strong by prayer and fasting. Jesus speaks of the ruler of this world who is opposed to the kingdom of the father. He may torture and persecute and even kill him. But Jesus asserts that he has no power over him. Jesus willingly submits himself to the authority out of obedience to his father. Persecutions, kidnapping, torture and even killing cannot destroy our true faith because it is a gift from God. We are strengthened in our faith when we carry out the father’s will. Lord, make us strong in the face of difficulties and persecutions.
PERSONAL DEVOTIONAL: Day 9 of May Devotion
The Truth is, our Mother Mary is the Mother of Jesus who is the truth. Whoever knows the truth shall always be set free.
We cannot know the truth if we avoid opportunities that will make us to become friends with and of Jesus. The Holy Spirit will teach us the truth as He taught our Mother Mary and when we have the truth in us we will be able to teach those who do not know about Jesus the truth to come and know Him.
Meditation: John 16:12-15
Prayer
Lord Jesus Christ, help me to know you deeply as our Mother Mary did so that I will be able to teach the world about you who is the way, the truth and life. Amen. And May the Almighty God bless you: the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit. Amen.
M A Y D E V O T I O N
Program of Daily Events for May Devotion (Personal / Group)
O my God because you’re so good, I am very sorry that I have sinned against you and by the help of your grace I will not sin again.
O most pure heart of Mary, full of goodness, show your love towards us. Let the flame of your heart, O Mary, descend on all people. We love you immensely. Impress on our hearts true love so that we may long for you. O Mary, gentle and humble of heart, remember us when we sin. You know that all we sin. Grant that through your most pure and motherly heart, we may be healed from every spiritual sickness. Grant that we may always experience the goodness of your motherly heart, and that through the flame of your heart we may be converted. Amen.
(Begin with the invocation of the Holy Spirit: Come, O Holy Spirit, fill the heart……….
O Most Holy Virgin, and Our Mother, we listen with grief to the complaints of your immaculate Heart surrounded with the thorns placed therein at every moment by the blasphemies and ingratitude of ungrateful humanity. We are moved by the ardent desire of loving you as Our Mother and of promising a true devotion to your Immaculate Heart. We therefore kneel before you to manifest the sorrow we feel for the grievances that people cause you, and to atone by our prayers and sacrifices for the offenses with which they return your love. Obtain for them and for us the pardon of so many sins. Hasten the conversion of sinners that they may love Jesus Christ and cease to offend the Lord, already so much offended. Turn your eyes of mercy toward us, that we may love God with all our heart on earth and enjoy him forever in Heaven.
Remember, O most gracious Virgin Mary, that never was it known that anyone who fled to thy protection, implored thy help, or sought thy intercession was left unaided Inspired by this confidence, I fly unto thee, O Virgin of virgins, my mother; to thee do I come, before thee I stand, sinful and sorrowful. O Mother of the Word Incarnate, despise not my petitions, but in thy mercy hear and answer me. Amen.
Wednesday May 10, 2023
Weekday of Easter (5)
ST JOHN OF AVILA, P.D (Opt. Mem.)
Office: Psalter Week 1
Mass of the day or Memorial; Preface of Easter
Vestment: White
Today’s Rosary: Glorious Mystery
ENTRANCE ANTIPHON cf. Ps 71:8.23
My mouth is filled with your praise, that I may sing aloud; my lips shall shout for joy, when I sing to you, alleluia.
COLLECT
O God, restorer and lover of innocence, direct the hearts of your servants towards yourself, that those you have set free from the darkness of unbelief may never stray from the light of your truth. Through our Lord...
-FIRST READING-
“They were appointed to go up to Jerusalem to the apostles and elders about this question.”
A reading from the Acts of the Apostles (Acts 15:1-6)
In those days: Some men came down from Judea and were teaching the brethren, “Unless you are circumcised according to the custom of Moses, you cannot be saved.” And when Paul and Barnabas had no small dissension and debate with them, Paul and Barnabas and some of the others were appointed to go up to Jerusalem to the apostles and the elders about this question. So, being sent on their way by the Church, they passed through both Phoenicia and Samaria, reporting the conversion of the Gentiles, and they gave great joy to all the brethren. When they came to Jerusalem, they were welcomed by the Church and the apostles and the elders, and they declared all that God had done with them. But some believers who belonged to the party of the Pharisees rose up, and said, “It is necessary to circumcise them, and to charge them to keep the Law of Moses.” The apostles and the elders were gathered together to consider this matter.
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Psalm 122: 1-2.3-4ab.4cd-5 (R. see 1)
R/. Let us go rejoicing to the house of the Lord.
Or: Alleluia.
I rejoiced when they said to me,
“Let us go to the house of the Lord.”
And now our feet are standing
within your gates, O Jerusalem. R/.
Jerusalem is built as a city
bonded as one together.
It is there that the tribes go up,
the tribes of the Lord. R/.
R/. Let us go rejoicing to the house of the Lord.
Or: Alleluia.
For Israel’s witness it is
to praise the name of the Lord.
There were set the thrones for judgement,
the thrones of the house of David. R/.
ALLELUIA John 15:4a.5b
Alleluia. Abide in me, and I in you, says the Lord; he who abides in me bears much fruit. Alleluia.
-GOSPEL-
“He who abides in me, and I in him, he it is that bears much fruit.”
A reading from the holy Gospel according to John (John 15:1-8)
At that time: Jesus said to his disciples, “I am the true vine, and my Father is the vinedresser. Every branch of mine that bears no fruit, he takes away, and every branch that does bear fruit he prunes, that it may bear more fruit. You are already made clean by the word which I have spoken to you. Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit by itself, unless it abides in the vine, neither can you, unless you abide in me. I am the vine, you are the branches. He who abides in me, and I in him, he it is that bears much fruit, for apart from me you can do nothing. If a man does not abide in me, he is cast forth as a branch and withers; and the branches are gathered, thrown into the fire and burned. If you abide in me, and my words abide in you, ask whatever you will, and it shall be done for you. By this my Father is glorified, that you bear much fruit, and so prove to be my disciples.”
The Gospel of the Lord.
TODAY'S REFLECTION
To abide in Jesus means to remain in him, do his will, and experience his love. This guarantees a life of joy, hope and fruitfulness. We prove to be Jesus’ disciples and glorify God when we live such a life of abundant joy and fruitfulness. This abiding of the disciple in the Lord is like the branch of a tree connected to its trunk. The branch receives its life giving sap from the tree. Cut the branch off from the tree to its own peril, it loses its life giving source. Christian life is a life of oneness with Jesus. Apart from him we have no life, but are dead and useless. With him we are alive and fruitful. Lord, grant that we may abide in you and produce fruits in abundance.
PERSONAL DEVOTIONAL: Day 10 of May Devotion
When our mission on earth comes to an end we must definitely return to the one who has made us come into this world to present our report card, Jesus finished his work and returned back to the Father (Ascension) and He received the reward to take His place at right hand of the Father at the end of His mission. Our Mother Mary also at the end of her earthly existence was also assumed into heaven and she received her reward. Let us learn from our Mother Mary to do good with all we got here on earth so that at the end heaven will be our reward.
Meditation: Mark 16:15-20
Prayer:
Lord Jesus Christ, help me to carry out my mission here on earth well as our Blessed Mother did, so that in the end I will come to live with you in heaven. Amen.
M A Y D E V O T I O N
Program of Daily Events for May Devotion (Personal / Group)
O my God because you’re so good, I am very sorry that I have sinned against you and by the help of your grace I will not sin again.
O most pure heart of Mary, full of goodness, show your love towards us. Let the flame of your heart, O Mary, descend on all people. We love you immensely. Impress on our hearts true love so that we may long for you. O Mary, gentle and humble of heart, remember us when we sin. You know that all we sin. Grant that through your most pure and motherly heart, we may be healed from every spiritual sickness. Grant that we may always experience the goodness of your motherly heart, and that through the flame of your heart we may be converted. Amen.
(Begin with the invocation of the Holy Spirit: Come, O Holy Spirit, fill the heart……….
O Most Holy Virgin, and Our Mother, we listen with grief to the complaints of your immaculate Heart surrounded with the thorns placed therein at every moment by the blasphemies and ingratitude of ungrateful humanity. We are moved by the ardent desire of loving you as Our Mother and of promising a true devotion to your Immaculate Heart. We therefore kneel before you to manifest the sorrow we feel for the grievances that people cause you, and to atone by our prayers and sacrifices for the offenses with which they return your love. Obtain for them and for us the pardon of so many sins. Hasten the conversion of sinners that they may love Jesus Christ and cease to offend the Lord, already so much offended. Turn your eyes of mercy toward us, that we may love God with all our heart on earth and enjoy him forever in Heaven.
Remember, O most gracious Virgin Mary, that never was it known that anyone who fled to thy protection, implored thy help, or sought thy intercession was left unaided Inspired by this confidence, I fly unto thee, O Virgin of virgins, my mother; to thee do I come, before thee I stand, sinful and sorrowful. O Mother of the Word Incarnate, despise not my petitions, but in thy mercy hear and answer me. Amen.
Thursday May 11, 2023
Weekday of Easter (5)
Office: Psalter Week 1
Mass of the day, Preface of Easter
Vestment: White
Today’s Rosary: Luminous Mystery
ENTRANCE ANTIPHON Cf. Ex 15:1-2
Let us sing to the Lord for he has gloriously triumphed. The Lord is my strength and my might; he has become my salvation, alleluia.
COLLECT
O God, by whose grace, though sinners, we are made just and, though pitiable, made blessed, stand, we pray, by your works, stand by your gifts, that those justified by faith may not lack the courage of perseverance. Through our Lord...
-FIRST READING-
“My judgement is that we should not trouble those of the Gentiles who turn to God.”
A reading from the Acts of the Apostles (Acts 15:7-21)
In those days: After there had been much debate, Peter rose and said to the apostles and the elders, “Brethren, you know that in the early days God made choice among you, that by my mouth the Gentiles should hear the word of the gospel and believe. And God who knows the heart bore witness to them, giving them the Holy Spirit just as he did to us; and he made no distinction between us and them, but cleansed their hearts by faith. Now therefore why do you make trial of God by putting a yoke upon the neck of the disciples which neither our fathers nor we have been able to bear? But we believe that we shall be saved through the grace of the Lord Jesus, just as they will.” And all the assembly kept silence; and they listened to Barnabas and Paul as they related what signs and wonders God had done through them among the Gentiles. After they finished speaking, James replied, “Brethren, listen to me. Symeon has related how God first visited the Gentiles, to take out of them a people for his name. And with this the words of the prophets agree, as it is written, ‘After this I will return, and I will rebuild the dwelling of David, which has fallen; I will rebuild its ruins, and I will set it up, that the rest of men may seek the Lord, and all the Gentiles who are called by my name, says the Lord, who has made these things known from of old.’ Therefore my judgement is that we should not trouble those of the Gentiles who turn to God, but should write to them to abstain from the pollutions of idols and from unchastity and from what is strangled and from blood. For from early generations Moses has had in every city those who preach him, for he is read every Sabbath in the synagogues.”
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Psalm 96: 1-2a.2b-3.10 (R. see 3)
R/. Tell among all the peoples the wonders of the Lord.
Or: Alleluia.
O sing a new song to the Lord;
sing to the Lord, all the earth.
O sing to the Lord; bless his name. R/.
Proclaim his salvation day by day.
Tell among the nations his glory,
and his wonders among all the peoples. R/.
R/. Tell among all the peoples the wonders of the Lord.
Or: Alleluia.
Say to the nations, “The Lord is king.”
The world he made firm in its place;
he will judge the peoples in fairness. R/.
ALLELUIA John 10:27
Alleluia. My sheep hear my voice, says the Lord; and I know them, and they follow me. Alleluia.
-GOSPEL-
“Abide in my love, that your joy may be full.”
A reading from the holy Gospel according to John (John 15:9-11)
At that time: Jesus said to his disciples, “As the Father has loved me, so have I loved you; abide in my love. If you keep my commandments, you will abide in my love, just as I have kept my Father’s commandments and abide in his love. These things I have spoken to you, that my joy may be in you, and that your joy may be full.”
The Gospel of the Lord.
TODAY'S REFLECTION
Our Lord Jesus is indeed the fulfillment of the law. This peter acknowledges at the council of Jerusalem; and that we are saved by grace and not by circumcision. James reaffirms what peter says and delivers the decision of the council of Jerusalem. In this narrative, we see the pre-eminence of peter as the head of the college of Apostles, a role still carried on today by pope Francis as the successor of peter, through the unbroken cord of Apostolic succession. Obviously it is an enormous responsibility to be the head of the one, Holy, Catholic and Apostolic Church. As faithful of the church, we must continue to pray for the Pope and all church leaders for the grace of final perseverance, and commit them daily to the Blessed Virgin Mary, mother of the church and queen of the apostles.
PERSONAL DEVOTIONAL: Day 11 May Devotion
When we let fear rule our heart and reign in us we will be unable to carry out our God given mission on earth. Therefore, this is a time to be courageous as our Mother Mary is and keep working for God.
Jesus courageously carried out His mission here on earth and He gave His disciples the power to stay strong by the power of the Holy Spirit to keep working for Him. Pain, persecution and suffering could come along the way in following Jesus, but we should stay strong just like our Mother Mary knowing that in the end our sorrows shall be turned into Joy. Fear not, keep working for God and you will overcome.
Meditation: John 16:20-23
Prayer
Holy Spirit of God, come into me and help me to be courageous as I do the work of God. Bring joy into my life and through my work may I bring joy to others and win souls into God's Kingdom. Amen. And May the Almighty God bless you: the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit. Amen.
M A Y D E V O T I O N
Program of Daily Events for May Devotion (Personal / Group)
O my God because you’re so good, I am very sorry that I have sinned against you and by the help of your grace I will not sin again.
O most pure heart of Mary, full of goodness, show your love towards us. Let the flame of your heart, O Mary, descend on all people. We love you immensely. Impress on our hearts true love so that we may long for you. O Mary, gentle and humble of heart, remember us when we sin. You know that all we sin. Grant that through your most pure and motherly heart, we may be healed from every spiritual sickness. Grant that we may always experience the goodness of your motherly heart, and that through the flame of your heart we may be converted. Amen.
(Begin with the invocation of the Holy Spirit: Come, O Holy Spirit, fill the heart……….
O Most Holy Virgin, and Our Mother, we listen with grief to the complaints of your immaculate Heart surrounded with the thorns placed therein at every moment by the blasphemies and ingratitude of ungrateful humanity. We are moved by the ardent desire of loving you as Our Mother and of promising a true devotion to your Immaculate Heart. We therefore kneel before you to manifest the sorrow we feel for the grievances that people cause you, and to atone by our prayers and sacrifices for the offenses with which they return your love. Obtain for them and for us the pardon of so many sins. Hasten the conversion of sinners that they may love Jesus Christ and cease to offend the Lord, already so much offended. Turn your eyes of mercy toward us, that we may love God with all our heart on earth and enjoy him forever in Heaven.
Remember, O most gracious Virgin Mary, that never was it known that anyone who fled to thy protection, implored thy help, or sought thy intercession was left unaided Inspired by this confidence, I fly unto thee, O Virgin of virgins, my mother; to thee do I come, before thee I stand, sinful and sorrowful. O Mother of the Word Incarnate, despise not my petitions, but in thy mercy hear and answer me. Amen.
Friday May 12, 2023
SAINT NEREUS AND ACHILLEUS OR SAINT PANCRAS, Martyr (Opt. Mem.)
Office: Psalter Week 1
Mass of the day or Memorial
Preface of Easter
Vestment: White/Red
Today’s Rosary: Sorrowful Mystery
ENTRANCE ANTIPHON Rv 5:12
Worthy is the Lamb who was slain, to receive power and divinity, and wisdom and strength and honour, alleluia.
COLLECT
Grant us, Lord, we pray, that being rightly conformed to the paschal mysteries, what we celebrate in joy may protect and save us with perpetual power. Through our Lord...
-FIRST READING-
“It has seemed good to the Holy Spirit and to us to lay upon you no greater burden than these necessary things.”
A reading from the Acts of the Apostles (Acts 15:22-31)
In those days: It seemed good to the apostles and the elders, with the whole Church, to choose men from among them and send them to Antioch with Paul and Barnabas. They sent Judas called Barsabbas, and Silas, leading men among the brethren, with the following letter: “The brethren, both the apostles and the elders, to the brethren who are of the Gentiles in Antioch and Syria and Cilicia, greeting. Since we have heard that some persons from us have troubled you with words, unsettling your minds, although we gave them no instructions, it has seemed good to us in assembly to choose men and send them to you with our beloved Barnabas and Paul, men who have risked their lives for the sake of our Lord Jesus Christ. We have therefore sent Judas and Silas, who themselves will tell you the same things by word of mouth. For it has seemed good to the Holy Spirit and to us to lay upon you no greater burden than these necessary things: that you abstain from what has been sacrificed to idols and from blood and from what is strangled and from unchastity. If you keep yourselves from these, you will do well. Farewell.” So when they were sent off, they went down to Antioch; and having gathered the congregation together, they delivered the letter. And when they read it, they rejoiced at the exhortation.
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Psalm 57:8-9.10- 12 (R. 10a)
R/. I will praise you, Lord, among the peoples.
Or: Alleluia.
My heart is ready, O God;
my heart is ready.
I will sing, I will sing your praise.
Awake, my soul!
Awake, lyre and harp!
I will awake the dawn. R/.
R/. I will praise you, Lord, among the peoples.
Or: Alleluia.
I will praise you, Lord, among the peoples,
among the nations sing psalms to you,
for your mercy reaches to the heavens,
and your truth to the skies.
Be exalted, O God, above the heavens;
may your glory shine on all the earth! R/.
ALLELUIA John 15:15b
Alleluia. I have called you friends, says the Lord, for all that I have heard from my Father I have made known to you. Alleluia.
-GOSPEL-
“This I command you, to love one another.”
A reading from the holy Gospel according to John (John 15:12-17)
At that time: Jesus said to his disciples, “This is my commandment, that you love one another as I have loved you. Greater love has no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends. You are my friends if you do what I command you. No longer do I call you servants, for the servant does not know what his master is doing; but I have called you friends, for all that I have heard from my Father I have made known to you. You did not choose me, but I chose you and appointed you that you should go and bear fruit and that your fruit should abide; so that whatever you ask the Father in my name, he may give it to you. This I command you, to love one another.”
The Gospel of the Lord.
TODAY’S REFLECTION
Bearing fruit is one of the characteristics of human being lost after the fall. Jesus restores this all-important attribute back to us. However, one’s fruits do not last until and unless one becomes a friend of Jesus. Friends of Jesus remain in his presence. Friends of Jesus are dedicated to him. They take all kinds of risks for his sake. They are honest people who do not derive joy in making other suffer. They love others to the point of death. They offer their daily activities to him. Are you a friend of Jesus? How I wish that my epitaph will bear this description: “he is a friend of Jesus”!
PERSONAL DEVOTIONAL: Day 12 May Devotion
We learn from one another each day depending on our level of humility and disposition to submit ourselves to the process of learning.
Our Blessed Mother Mary was brought up in the way of the Lord by her parents’ saints Joachim and Anne, she had a wonderful disposition and she learnt from them. She also taught Jesus when He was under her care and she also learnt a lot from Jesus. We must learn from her to teach and instruct others in the path of righteousness and also humble ourselves so that we can learn from others who can teach us the good things we do not know yet.
Meditation: Acts 18:23-28
Prayer:
Lord Jesus Christ, help me through the power of the Holy Spirit, so that I will be an inspiration to those who look up to and come to me and may I be humble to learn from other people too in a positive way. Amen. *And May the Almighty God bless you: the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit. Amen.
M A Y D E V O T I O N
Program of Daily Events for May Devotion (Personal / Group)
O my God because you’re so good, I am very sorry that I have sinned against you and by the help of your grace I will not sin again.
O most pure heart of Mary, full of goodness, show your love towards us. Let the flame of your heart, O Mary, descend on all people. We love you immensely. Impress on our hearts true love so that we may long for you. O Mary, gentle and humble of heart, remember us when we sin. You know that all we sin. Grant that through your most pure and motherly heart, we may be healed from every spiritual sickness. Grant that we may always experience the goodness of your motherly heart, and that through the flame of your heart we may be converted. Amen.
(Begin with the invocation of the Holy Spirit: Come, O Holy Spirit, fill the heart……….
O Most Holy Virgin, and Our Mother, we listen with grief to the complaints of your immaculate Heart surrounded with the thorns placed therein at every moment by the blasphemies and ingratitude of ungrateful humanity. We are moved by the ardent desire of loving you as Our Mother and of promising a true devotion to your Immaculate Heart. We therefore kneel before you to manifest the sorrow we feel for the grievances that people cause you, and to atone by our prayers and sacrifices for the offenses with which they return your love. Obtain for them and for us the pardon of so many sins. Hasten the conversion of sinners that they may love Jesus Christ and cease to offend the Lord, already so much offended. Turn your eyes of mercy toward us, that we may love God with all our heart on earth and enjoy him forever in Heaven.
Remember, O most gracious Virgin Mary, that never was it known that anyone who fled to thy protection, implored thy help, or sought thy intercession was left unaided Inspired by this confidence, I fly unto thee, O Virgin of virgins, my mother; to thee do I come, before thee I stand, sinful and sorrowful. O Mother of the Word Incarnate, despise not my petitions, but in thy mercy hear and answer me. Amen.
Saturday May 13, 2023
OUR LADY OF FATIMA (Opt. Mem)
Office: Psalter Week 1
Mass of the day or Memorial
Preface of Easter
Vestment: White
Today’s Rosary: The Joyful Mysteries
ENTRANCE ANTIPHON Col 2: 12
You have been buried with Christ in baptism, through which you also rose again by faith in the working of God, who raised him from the dead, alleluia.
COLLECT
Almighty eternal God, who through the regenerating power of Baptism have been pleased to confer on us heavenly life, grant, we pray, that those you render capable of immortality by justifying them, may by your guidance attain the fullness of glory. Through our Lord...
-FIRST READING-
“Come over to Macedonia and help us.
A reading from the Acts of the Apostles (Acts 16: 1-10)
In those days: Paul came to Derbe .and to Lystra. A disciple was there, named Timothy, the son of a Jewish woman who was a believer; but his father was a Greek. He was well spoken of by the brethren at Lystra and Iconium. Paul wanted Timothy to accompany him; and he took him and circumcised him because of the Jews that were in those places, for they all knew that his father was a Greek. As they went on their way through the cities, they delivered to them for observance the decisions which had been reached by the apostles and elders who were at Jerusalem. So the churches were strengthened in the faith, and they increased in numbers daily. And they went through the region of Phrygia and Galatia, having been forbidden by the Holy Spirit to speak the word in Asia. And when they had come opposite Mysia, they attempted to go into Bithynia, but the Spirit of Jesus did not allow them; so, passing by Mysia, they went down to Troas. And a vision appeared to Paul in the night: a man of Macedonia was standing pleading with him and saying, “Come over to Macedonia and help us.” And when he had seen the vision, immediately we sought to go on into Macedonia, concluding that God had called us to preach the gospel to them.
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Psalm 100: 1-2.3.5 (R. 1)
R/. Cry out with joy to the Lord, all the earth.
Or: Alleluia.
Cry out with joy to the Lord, all the earth.
Serve the Lord with gladness.
Come before him, singing for joy. R/.
Know that he, the Lord, is God.
He made us; we belong to him.
We are his people, the sheep of his flock. R/.
R/. Cry out with joy to the Lord, all the earth.
Or: Alleluia.
Indeed, how good is the Lord,
eternal his merciful love.
He is faithful from age to age. R/.
ALLELUIA Colossians 3:1
Alleluia. If then you have been raised with Christ, seek the things that are above, where Christ is seated at the right hand of God. Alleluia.
-GOSPEL-
“You are not of the world, but I chose you out of the world.”
A reading from the holy Gospel according to John (John 15:18-21)
At that time: Jesus said to his disciples, “If the world hates you, know that it has hated me before it hated you. If you were of the world, the world would love its own; but because you are not of the world, but I chose you out of the world, therefore the world hates you. Remember the word that I said to you, ‘A servant is not greater than his master.’ If they persecuted me, they will persecute you; if they kept my word, they will keep yours also. But all this they will do to you on my account, because they do not know him who sent me.”
The Gospel of the Lord.
TODAY'S REFLECTION
We do not belongs to the world. We are citizens of heaven. We belongs to God and we listen to him. Anyone who listens to God takes right decisions. What one requires in order to be at the right place is to take the right decision. Right decision makes one grow in all kinds of goodness. Right decision makes the church grow in the faith and in numbers (Acts 16:4-5). Right decisions are products of openness to the directions of the Holy Spirit. Deliberate on issues, talk with someone, pray, listen to the inner promptings of the spirit, and you will receive right direction.
PERSONAL DEVOTIONAL: Day 13 May Devotion
If we cannot pray, then, we are not true children of our Father in heaven who has taught us through His Son our Lord Jesus Christ that prayer is the key.
As Jesus prayed to the Father for His disciples, so is our Mother Mary helping us with her maternal intercession before her Son and she has also taught us to pray the Rosary always. Learn from her not to joke with your prayer life and you will definitely receive God's blessings in abundance when you do.
Meditation: John 17:11-19
Prayer:
Heavenly Father, pour out the Spirit of prayer upon me. May I be ready at all times to go on my knees and call upon your name for my needs and for the needs of others just as our Mother Mary does on a daily basis. Amen. And May the Almighty God bless you: the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit. Amen.
M A Y D E V O T I O N
Program of Daily Events for May Devotion (Personal / Group)
O my God because you’re so good, I am very sorry that I have sinned against you and by the help of your grace I will not sin again.
O most pure heart of Mary, full of goodness, show your love towards us. Let the flame of your heart, O Mary, descend on all people. We love you immensely. Impress on our hearts true love so that we may long for you. O Mary, gentle and humble of heart, remember us when we sin. You know that all we sin. Grant that through your most pure and motherly heart, we may be healed from every spiritual sickness. Grant that we may always experience the goodness of your motherly heart, and that through the flame of your heart we may be converted. Amen.
(Begin with the invocation of the Holy Spirit: Come, O Holy Spirit, fill the heart……….
O Most Holy Virgin, and Our Mother, we listen with grief to the complaints of your immaculate Heart surrounded with the thorns placed therein at every moment by the blasphemies and ingratitude of ungrateful humanity. We are moved by the ardent desire of loving you as Our Mother and of promising a true devotion to your Immaculate Heart. We therefore kneel before you to manifest the sorrow we feel for the grievances that people cause you, and to atone by our prayers and sacrifices for the offenses with which they return your love. Obtain for them and for us the pardon of so many sins. Hasten the conversion of sinners that they may love Jesus Christ and cease to offend the Lord, already so much offended. Turn your eyes of mercy toward us, that we may love God with all our heart on earth and enjoy him forever in Heaven.
Remember, O most gracious Virgin Mary, that never was it known that anyone who fled to thy protection, implored thy help, or sought thy intercession was left unaided Inspired by this confidence, I fly unto thee, O Virgin of virgins, my mother; to thee do I come, before thee I stand, sinful and sorrowful. O Mother of the Word Incarnate, despise not my petitions, but in thy mercy hear and answer me. Amen.
Sunday May 14, 2023
6TH SUNDAY OF EASTER
Office- Psalter Week 2, Te Deum
Mass prop. Gloria. Creed.
Preface of Easter
V1 -, R1 -, R2 -,
Vestment: White
Today’s Rosary: The Glorious Mysteries
THEME OF THE SUNDAY: The Promise of the Spirit.
The main theme of today’s readings is Jesus’ promise to send the Paraclete, the Spirit of truth. The Spirit’s coming will be celebrated on the feast of Pentecost. Today’s gospel spells out how we should prepare to receive the Spirit. The second reading is a practical application of this teaching in the lives of persecuted Christians who know that the Paraclete will always be with them. The first reading shows the apostles calling down the Spirit in the imposition of hands.
ENTRANCE ANTIPHON cf. 1s 48:20
Proclaim a joyful sound and let it be heard; proclaim to the ends of the earth: the Lord has freed his people, alleluia.
The Gloria in excels is (Glory to God iii the highest) is said.
COLLECT
Grant, almighty God, that we may celebrate with heartfelt devotion these days of joy, which we keep in honour of the risen Lord, and that what we relive in remembrance we may always hold to in what we do. Through our Lord.
-FIRST READING-
“They laid hands on them, and they received the Holy Spirit.”
A reading from the Acts of the Apostles (Acts 8:5-8.14-17)
In those days: Philip went down to a city of Samaria, and proclaimed to them the Christ. And the multitudes with one accord gave heed to what was said by Philip, when they heard him and saw the signs which he did. For unclean spirits came out of many who were possessed, crying with a loud voice; and many who were paralysed or lame were healed. So there was much joy in that city. Now when the apostles at Jerusalem heard that Samaria had received the word of God, they sent to them Peter and John, who came down and prayed for them that they might receive the Holy Spirit; for the Spirit had not yet fallen on any of them, but they had only been baptised in the name of the Lord Jesus. Then they laid their hands on them and they received the Holy Spirit.
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Ps 66: 1-3a.4-5.6-7a.16 and 20 (R.1)
R/. Cry out with joy to God, all the earth.
Or: Alleluia.
Cry out with joy to God, all the earth;
O sing to the glory of his name.
O render him glorious praise.
Say to God, “How awesome your deeds!” R/.
“Before you all the earth shall bow down,
shall sing to you, sing to your name!”
Come and see the works of God:
awesome his deeds among the children of men. R/.
R/. Cry out with joy to God, all the earth.
Or: Alleluia.
He turned the sea into dry land;
they passed through the river on foot.
Let our joy, then, be in him;
he rules forever by his might. R/.
Come and hear, all who fear God;
I will tell what he did for my soul.
Blest be God, who did not reject my prayer,
nor withhold from me his merciful love. R/.
-SECOND READING-
“Put to death in the flesh, he was made alive in the Spirit.”
A reading from the first Letter of Saint Peter (1 Peter 3:15-18)
Beloved: In your hearts reverence Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to make a defence to any one who calls you to account for the hope that is in you, yet do it with gentleness and reverence; and keep your conscience clear, so that, when you are abused, those who revile your good behaviour in Christ may be put to shame. For it is better to suffer for doing right, if that should be God’s will, than for doing wrong. For Christ also died for sins once for all, the righteous for the unrighteous, that he might bring us to God, being put to death in the flesh but made alive in the Spirit.
The word of the Lord.
ALLELUIA John 14:23
Alleluia. If a man loves me, he will keep my word, says the Lord; and my Father will love him, and we will come to him. Alleluia.
-GOSPEL-
“I will ask the Father, and he will give you another Counsellor.”
A reading from the holy Gospel according to John (John 14:15-21)
At that time: Jesus said to his disciples, “If you love me, you will keep my commandments. And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another Counsellor, to be with you for ever, even the Spirit of truth, whom the world cannot receive, because it neither sees him nor knows him; you know him, for he dwells with you, and will be in you. “I will not leave you desolate; I will come to you. Yet a little while, and the world will see me no more, but you will see me; because I live, you will live also. In that day you will know that I am in my Father, and you in me, and I in you. He who has my commandments and keeps them, he it is who loves me; and he who loves me will be loved by my Father, and I will love him and manifest myself to him.”
The Gospel of the Lord.
PRAYER OF THE FAITHFUL
Celebrant:
Our Lord Jesus Christ invites us to love him by keeping his commandments. Let us ask the Holy Spirit, whom the father sends to us, to fill our hearts with a sincere love for God and one another.
For the Pope, Bishops, priest, and deacons of the church: that the Lord will continue to sanctify them through the action of the Holy Spirit, hear their humble prayers and grant them the grace to serve him faithfully in love. We pray O Lord.
For civil leaders: that they may develop policies that respect the family and recognize its unmatched contribution to the advancement of society. We pray O Lord.
For Christians facing tribulation: that the Holy Spirit may give light and strength to those in many regions of the world who are persecuted and discriminated against because of the Gospel. We pray O Lord.
For the physically challenged and visually impaired members in our midst: that they may experience the love of their brothers and sisters in this community and the soothing touch of the risen Lord. We pray O Lord.
For other intentions: (the sick, church projects or other activities).
For the dead, especially those of our parish community and family members: that they may find eternal rest with the Lord. We pray O Lord.
We pray in silence for our private intentions.
Celebrant:
Lord God, through the death and Resurrection of your Son, our Lord Jesus Christ, you won for us our salvation. Be attentive to the needs of those whom you have gathered together, that they may find in you their true refuge. Through Christ our Lord.
R/. Amen.
TODAY'S REFLECTION
In today’s first reading we see how the people of Samaria, experience the joy of receiving the good news through the ministry of Philip. They rejoiced that they came to know the true saviour. James and John strengthen them in their faith by laying hands and obtaining for them the power of the Holy Spirit. In today’s gospel Jesus promises the same Holy Spirit, the counsellor, to be with them for ever. The Counsellor is the spirit of truth. The Holy Spirit is the promise of the Lord as he departs from this world after fulfilling his mission. So a Christian is never left abandoned by God, but always lives in the Holy Triune God. St Peter, in the second reading advises the people to be ready to answer their adversaries with a defence of gentleness and reverence. This is the consequence of receiving the Holy Spirit. Lord, fill me with your Spirit of courage and joy.
PERSONAL DEVOTIONAL: Day 14 of May Devotion
God's choice is always the best at all times and when you let God do what He wants with you, it will not only be perfect, but more importantly, it will bring joy to your heart.
When God chose our Mother Mary to be the channel through which His only begotten Son will come into the world, He did not make a mistake, because Mary said yes to Him and that brought tremendous blessings to the world. God did not make a mistake to choose you, therefore, say yes to Him as our Mother Mary did and you will become a channel through which He will do great things in our world. Make yourself available for God so that he will make use of you for the good of humanity.
Meditation: John 15:9-17
Prayer:
Heavenly Father, you have chosen me to go out and bear fruit for you. Help me to always say yes to you and may I become a channel through which your grace and blessings will come upon those who come in contact with me. Amen. And May the Almighty God bless you: the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit. Amen.
M A Y D E V O T I O N
Program of Daily Events for May Devotion (Personal / Group)
O my God because you’re so good, I am very sorry that I have sinned against you and by the help of your grace I will not sin again.
O most pure heart of Mary, full of goodness, show your love towards us. Let the flame of your heart, O Mary, descend on all people. We love you immensely. Impress on our hearts true love so that we may long for you. O Mary, gentle and humble of heart, remember us when we sin. You know that all we sin. Grant that through your most pure and motherly heart, we may be healed from every spiritual sickness. Grant that we may always experience the goodness of your motherly heart, and that through the flame of your heart we may be converted. Amen.
(Begin with the invocation of the Holy Spirit: Come, O Holy Spirit, fill the heart……….
O Most Holy Virgin, and Our Mother, we listen with grief to the complaints of your immaculate Heart surrounded with the thorns placed therein at every moment by the blasphemies and ingratitude of ungrateful humanity. We are moved by the ardent desire of loving you as Our Mother and of promising a true devotion to your Immaculate Heart. We therefore kneel before you to manifest the sorrow we feel for the grievances that people cause you, and to atone by our prayers and sacrifices for the offenses with which they return your love. Obtain for them and for us the pardon of so many sins. Hasten the conversion of sinners that they may love Jesus Christ and cease to offend the Lord, already so much offended. Turn your eyes of mercy toward us, that we may love God with all our heart on earth and enjoy him forever in Heaven.
Remember, O most gracious Virgin Mary, that never was it known that anyone who fled to thy protection, implored thy help, or sought thy intercession was left unaided Inspired by this confidence, I fly unto thee, O Virgin of virgins, my mother; to thee do I come, before thee I stand, sinful and sorrowful. O Mother of the Word Incarnate, despise not my petitions, but in thy mercy hear and answer me. Amen.
Monday May 15, 2023
Weekday of Easter (6)
Office: Psalter Week 2
Mass of the day; Preface of Easter
Vestment: White
Today’s Rosary: The Joyful Mysteries
ENTRANCE ANTIPHON Rom 6:9
Christ, having risen from the dead, dies now no more; death will no longer have dominion over him, alleluia.
COLLECT
Grant, O merciful God, that we may experience at all times the fruit produced by the paschal observances. Through our Lord...
-FIRST READING-
“The Lord opened her heart to listen to what was said by Paul.”
A reading from the Acts of the Apostles (Acts 16:11-15)
Setting sail from Troas, we made a direct voyage to Samothrace, and the following day to Neapolis, and from there to Philippi, which is the leading city of the district of Macedonia, and a Roman colony. We remained in this city some days; and on the sabbath day we went outside the gate to the riverside, where we supposed there was a place of prayer; and we sat down and spoke to the women who had come together. One who heard us was a woman named Lydia, from the city of Thyatira, a seller of purple goods, who was a worshipper of God. The Lord opened her heart to listen to what was said by Paul. And when she was baptised, with her household, she begged us, saying, “If you have judged me to be faithful to the Lord, come to my house and stay.” And she prevailed upon us.
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Psalm 149: 1bc-2.3-4.5-6a and 9bc (R. 4a)
R/. The Lord takes delight in his people.
Or: Alleluia.
Sing a new song to the Lord,
his praise in the assembly of the faithful.
Let Israel rejoice in its Maker;
let Sion’s children exult in their king. R/.
Let them praise his name with dancing,
and make music with timbrel and harp.
For the Lord takes delight in his people;
he crowns the poor with salvation. R/.
R/. The Lord takes delight in his people.
Or: Alleluia.
Let the faithful exult in glory,
and rejoice as they take their rest.
Let the praise of God be in their mouths.
This is an honour for all his faithful. R/.
ALLELUIA John 15:26b.27a
Alleluia. The Spirit of truth will bear witness to me, says the Lord; and you also are witnesses. Alleluia.
-GOSPEL-
“The Spirit of truth will bear witness to me.”
A reading from the holy Gospel according to John (John 15:26-16:4a)
At that time: Jesus said to his disciples, “When the Counsellor comes, whom I shall send to you from the Father, even the Spirit of truth, who proceeds from the Father, he will bear witness to me; and you also are witnesses, because you have been with me from the beginning. I have said all this to you to keep you from falling away. They will put you out of the synagogues; indeed, the hour is coming when whoever kills you will think he is offering service to God. And they will do this because they have not known the Father, nor me. But I have said these things to you, that when their hour comes you may remember that I told you of them.”
The Gospel of the Lord.
TODAY'S REFLECTION
The Holy Spirit witnesses with us. He opens the hearts of people to accept the message of Christ. Lydia’s heart was opened to accept the message of Christ. We witness with our words and deeds. The Holy Spirit witnesses with us by opening the hearts of those who listen to us, or meet us. We can witness by the way people see us handle our suffering. We can witness by giving someone a copy of the bible, texting someone a verse of the scripture, praying with someone, giving a helping hand, consoling someone in pain and visiting someone who is lonely. Be a witness.
Blessing for the new week
A very good morning to you my dearest friend. I hope your night was cool and you are ready to conquer this new week. May God lead you as you begins this new week and may His presence and glory shield you from every harm.
As God promised Jacob that he will go with him and not to leave him, I pray that he shall lead you to where you will find favour and pasture and your coming back to your home shall be in Joy and with lots of testimony. May the heavenly dew fall upon the labour of our hands so that it shall blossom and flourish super – abundantly.
Just maintain your stand before God in adoration and he will make everything well for you. Go out with faith, put in your best and let God surprise you with His blessings
Let the place of your encounter with God be the cancel of your blessings May God be with you and help you to conquer the challenges that his week will bring. Have a wonderful week ahead. Amen.
PERSONAL DEVOTIONAL: Day 15 May Devotion
When you do not know the reason why you are here on earth, you could end up wandering in utter darkness and will never fulfil your purpose in life.
Our Mother Mary knew from the very beginning what her mission on earth was and she put in her heart and energy to fulfil that purpose. She fought the good fight of faith, finished well and was rewarded with heavenly glory. We must follow in her step to keep working hard to fulfil our purpose in this life so that in the end we shall wear the crown of eternal glory.
Meditation: John 17:1-11
Prayer:
Heavenly Father, give me the grace to stay focused on my mission here on earth. May nothing stop me from fulfilling the purpose of which you created me and in the end may I wear the crown of eternal glory. Amen. And May the Almighty God bless you: the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit. Amen.
M A Y D E V O T I O N
Program of Daily Events for May Devotion (Personal / Group)
O my God because you’re so good, I am very sorry that I have sinned against you and by the help of your grace I will not sin again.
O most pure heart of Mary, full of goodness, show your love towards us. Let the flame of your heart, O Mary, descend on all people. We love you immensely. Impress on our hearts true love so that we may long for you. O Mary, gentle and humble of heart, remember us when we sin. You know that all we sin. Grant that through your most pure and motherly heart, we may be healed from every spiritual sickness. Grant that we may always experience the goodness of your motherly heart, and that through the flame of your heart we may be converted. Amen.
(Begin with the invocation of the Holy Spirit: Come, O Holy Spirit, fill the heart……….
O Most Holy Virgin, and Our Mother, we listen with grief to the complaints of your immaculate Heart surrounded with the thorns placed therein at every moment by the blasphemies and ingratitude of ungrateful humanity. We are moved by the ardent desire of loving you as Our Mother and of promising a true devotion to your Immaculate Heart. We therefore kneel before you to manifest the sorrow we feel for the grievances that people cause you, and to atone by our prayers and sacrifices for the offenses with which they return your love. Obtain for them and for us the pardon of so many sins. Hasten the conversion of sinners that they may love Jesus Christ and cease to offend the Lord, already so much offended. Turn your eyes of mercy toward us, that we may love God with all our heart on earth and enjoy him forever in Heaven.
Remember, O most gracious Virgin Mary, that never was it known that anyone who fled to thy protection, implored thy help, or sought thy intercession was left unaided Inspired by this confidence, I fly unto thee, O Virgin of virgins, my mother; to thee do I come, before thee I stand, sinful and sorrowful. O Mother of the Word Incarnate, despise not my petitions, but in thy mercy hear and answer me. Amen.
Tuesday May 16, 2023
Weekday of Easter (6)
Office: Psalter Week 2
Mass of the day; Preface of Easter
Vestment: White
Today’s Rosary: The Sorrowful Mysteries
ENTRANCE ANTIPHON Rv 19:7.6
Let us rejoice and be glad and give glory to God, for the Lord our God the Almighty reigns, alleluia.
COLLECT
Grant, almighty and merciful God, that we may in truth receive a share in the Resurrection of Christ your Son. Who lives and reigns with you...
-FIRST READING-
“Believe in the Lord Jesus, and you will be saved, you and your household.”
A reading from the Acts of the Apostles (Acts 16:22-34)
In those days: The crowd of Philippians joined in attacking Paul and Silas; and the magistrates tore the garments off them and gave orders to beat them with rods. And when they had inflicted many blows upon them, they threw them into prison, charging the jailer to keep them safely. Having received this charge, he put them into the inner prison and fastened their feet in the stocks. But about midnight Paul and Silas were praying and singing hymns to God, and the prisoners were listening to them, and suddenly there was a great earthquake, so that the foundations of the prison were shaken; and immediately all the doors were opened and everyone’s chains were unfastened. When the jailer woke and saw that the prison doors were open, he drew his sword and was about to kill himself, supposing that the prisoners had escaped. But Paul cried with a loud voice, “Do not harm yourself, for we are all here.” And he called for lights and rushed in, and trembling with fear he fell down before Paul and Silas, and brought them out and said, “Men, what must I do to be saved?” And they said, “Believe in the Lord Jesus, and you will be saved, you and your household.” And they spoke the word of the Lord to him and to all that were in his house. And he took them the same hour of the night, and washed their wounds, and he was baptised at once, with all his family. Then he brought them up into his house, and set food before them; and he rejoiced with all his household that he had believed in God.
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Psalm 138: 1 ac-2a. 2bcd-3. 7c-8 (see 7c)
R/. With your right hand you save me, O Lord.
or: Alleluia.
I thank you, Lord, with all my heart;
you have heard the words of my mouth.
In the presence of the angels I praise you.
I bow down toward your holy temple. R/.
I give thanks to your name
for your merciful love and your faithfulness.
You have exalted your name and your promise over all.
On the day I called, you answered me;
you increased the strength of my soul. R/.
R/. With your right hand you save me, O Lord.
or: Alleluia.
With your right hand you save me;
the Lord will accomplish this for me.
O Lord, your merciful love is eternal;
discard not the work of your hands. R/.
ALLELUIA John 16:7.13
Alleluia. I will send the Spirit of truth to you, says the Lord; he will guide you into all the truth. Alleluia.
-GOSPEL-
“If I do not go away, the Counsellor will not come to you.”
A reading from the holy Gospel according to John (John 16:5- 11)
At that time: Jesus said to his disciples, “Now I am going to him who sent me; yet none of you asks me, ‘Where are you going?’ But because I have said these things to you, sorrow has filled your hearts. Nevertheless I tell you the truth: it is to your advantage that I go away, for if I do not go away, the Counsellor will not come to you; but if I go, I will send him to you. And when he comes, he will convince the world of sin and of righteousness and of judgement: of sin, because they do not believe in me; of righteousness, because I go to the Father, and you will see me no more; of judgement, because the ruler of this world is judged.”
The Gospel of the Lord.
TODAY'S REFLECTION
Paul says, “Have no anxiety about anything but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your request be made known to God” (Phil 4:6). One thing the Holy Spirit teaches us is the power of prayer and praise. Prayer and praise are powerful tools of the Holy Spirit to cause miraculous interventions of God. While Paul and Silas were praying and singing hymns to God and the prisoners were listening, suddenly, God intervened in a mighty unexpected way. In the face of temptation, difficulty or crisis, pray and sing hymns to God-his intervention will be exceptional.
PERSONAL DEVOTIONAL: Day 16, May Devotion
Giving and receiving are two different sides of the same coin, but the Scripture made it explicitly clear that it is more blessed to give than to receive. You will never regret it when you are generous with what you possess.
Anyone who seriously wish to follow the way of the Lord must be ready to give time, talent and treasure for the sake of God and for the good of others. Our lives must be spent for the good of others, just like our Lord Jesus Christ and our Mother Mary spent their lives for us their children and we must learn from them and do the same. The more you refuse to spend yourself for the good of others, the more it is counted for you as selfishness and stinginess and you become poor in the eyes of the Lord. Give always and do not count the cost and your blessings will be secured in the presence of the Lord.
Meditation: Acts 20:28-38
Prayer
Heavenly Father, help me to be generous with my life and gifts for your honour. Never let me refuse to spend my life for the good of others, for that is the only way that I will gain my life. Amen. And May the Almighty God bless you: the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit. Amen.
M A Y D E V O T I O N
Program of Daily Events for May Devotion (Personal / Group)
O my God because you’re so good, I am very sorry that I have sinned against you and by the help of your grace I will not sin again.
O most pure heart of Mary, full of goodness, show your love towards us. Let the flame of your heart, O Mary, descend on all people. We love you immensely. Impress on our hearts true love so that we may long for you. O Mary, gentle and humble of heart, remember us when we sin. You know that all we sin. Grant that through your most pure and motherly heart, we may be healed from every spiritual sickness. Grant that we may always experience the goodness of your motherly heart, and that through the flame of your heart we may be converted. Amen.
(Begin with the invocation of the Holy Spirit: Come, O Holy Spirit, fill the heart……….
O Most Holy Virgin, and Our Mother, we listen with grief to the complaints of your immaculate Heart surrounded with the thorns placed therein at every moment by the blasphemies and ingratitude of ungrateful humanity. We are moved by the ardent desire of loving you as Our Mother and of promising a true devotion to your Immaculate Heart. We therefore kneel before you to manifest the sorrow we feel for the grievances that people cause you, and to atone by our prayers and sacrifices for the offenses with which they return your love. Obtain for them and for us the pardon of so many sins. Hasten the conversion of sinners that they may love Jesus Christ and cease to offend the Lord, already so much offended. Turn your eyes of mercy toward us, that we may love God with all our heart on earth and enjoy him forever in Heaven.
Remember, O most gracious Virgin Mary, that never was it known that anyone who fled to thy protection, implored thy help, or sought thy intercession was left unaided Inspired by this confidence, I fly unto thee, O Virgin of virgins, my mother; to thee do I come, before thee I stand, sinful and sorrowful. O Mother of the Word Incarnate, despise not my petitions, but in thy mercy hear and answer me. Amen.
Wednesday May 17, 2023
Weekday of Easter (6)
Office: Psalter Week 2
Mass of the day; Preface of Easter
Vestment: White
Today’s Rosary: The Glorious Mysteries
Vespers I of the Ascension of the Lord
ENTRANCE ANTIPHON
I will praise you, Lord, among the nations; I will tell of your name to my kin, alleluia.
COLLECT
Grant, we pray, O Lord, that, as we celebrate in mystery the solemnities of your Son’s Resurrection, so, too, we may be worthy to rejoice at his coming with all the Saints. Through our Lord...
-FIRST READING-
“What therefore you worship as unknown, this I proclaim to you.”
A reading from the Acts of the Apostles (Acts 17: 15.22-18: 1)
In those days: Those who conducted Paul brought him as far as Athens; and receiving a command or Silas and Timothy to come to him as soon as possible, they departed. So Paul, standing in the middle of the Areopagus, said: “Men of Athens, I perceive that in every way you are very religious. For as I passed along, and observed the objects of your worship, I found also an altar with this inscription, ‘To an unknown god.’ What therefore you worship as unknown, this I proclaim to you. The God who made the world and everything in it, being Lord of heaven and earth, does not live in shrines made by man, nor is he served by human hands, as though he needed anything, since he himself gives to all men life and breath and everything. And he made from one every nation of men to live on all the face of the earth, having determined allotted periods and the boundaries of their habitation, that they should seek God, in the hope that they might feel after him and find him. Yet he is not far from each one of us, for ‘In him we live and move and have our being’ as even some of your poets have said, ‘For we are indeed his offspring.’ Being then God’s offspring, we ought not to think that the Deity is like gold, or silver, or stone, a representation by the art and imagination of man. The times of ignorance God overlooked, but now he commands all men everywhere to repent, because he has fixed a day on which he will judge the world in righteousness by a man whom he has appointed, and of this he has given assurance to all men by raising him from the dead.” Now when they heard of the resurrection of the dead, some mocked; but others said, “We will hear you again about this.” So Paul went out from among them. But some men joined him and believed, among them Dionysius the Areopagite and a woman named Damaris and others with them. After this he left Athens and went to Corinth.
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Psalm 148:1-2.11-12.13.14
R/. Heaven and earth are full of your glory.
Or: Alleluia.
Praise the Lord from the heavens;
praise him in the heights.
Praise him, all his angels;
praise him, all his hosts. R/.
Kings of the earth and all peoples,
princes and all judges of the earth,
young men and maidens as well,
the old together with the young. R/.
R/. Heaven and earth are full of your glory.
Or: Alleluia.
Let them praise the name of the Lord,
for his name alone is exalted,
his splendour above heaven and earth. R/.
He exalts the strength of his people.
He is the praise of all his faithful,
the praise of the children of Israel,
of the people to whom he is close.
ALLELUIA John 14:16
Alleluia. I will pray the Father, and he will give you another Counsellor, to be with you forever. Alleluia
-GOSPEL-
“The Spirit of truth will guide you into all the truth.”
A reading from the holy Gospel according to John (John 16:12-15)
At that time: Jesus said to his disciples, “1 have yet many things to say to you, but you cannot bear them now. When the Spirit of truth comes, he will guide you into all the truth; for he will not speak on his own authority, but whatever he hears he will speak, and he will declare to you the things that are to come. He will glorify me, for he will take what is mine and declare it to you. All that the Father has is mine; therefore I said that he will take what is mine and declare it to you.”
The Gospel of the Lord
TODAY'S REFLECTION
Ignorance is a great weapon used by the devil. It is opposed to truth and knowledge. People are destroyed for lack of knowledge (Hosea 4:6). Ignorance can make someone to place priority in the wrong place or mistake a blessing for a curse or a creature for the Creator. Ignorance prevented the Athens from knowing the true God. Their ignorance was excusable because they had not received the Holy Spirit. Jesus promises to send the Holy Spirit to lead anyone who accepts him into the complete truth. The Holy Spirit makes culpable ignorance inexcusable and every Christian a constant learner. Have you received the Holy Spirit?
PERSONAL DEVOTIONAL: Day 17 May Devotion
Determination to continue to witness for Jesus no matter the circumstances should be the priority of anyone who truly wish to be a disciple after the mind of Christ.
Our Mother Mary was a witness par excellence. She witnessed with her life and example. She spoke less but acted more and she never gave up even in the most difficult and challenging times of her life. This should be our attitude always. Never give up, but stay strong and continue to profess Jesus Christ in good times and in bad and you will definitely see the face of God.
Meditation: Acts 22:30; 23:6-11
Prayer:
Lord Jesus Christ, the journey of following you and witnessing for you could be tough, but I believe in your grace to see me through. May I remain steadfast until the end. Amen. And May the Almighty God bless you: the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit. Amen.
M A Y D E V O T I O N
Program of Daily Events for May Devotion (Personal / Group)
O my God because you’re so good, I am very sorry that I have sinned against you and by the help of your grace I will not sin again.
O most pure heart of Mary, full of goodness, show your love towards us. Let the flame of your heart, O Mary, descend on all people. We love you immensely. Impress on our hearts true love so that we may long for you. O Mary, gentle and humble of heart, remember us when we sin. You know that all we sin. Grant that through your most pure and motherly heart, we may be healed from every spiritual sickness. Grant that we may always experience the goodness of your motherly heart, and that through the flame of your heart we may be converted. Amen.
(Begin with the invocation of the Holy Spirit: Come, O Holy Spirit, fill the heart……….
O Most Holy Virgin, and Our Mother, we listen with grief to the complaints of your immaculate Heart surrounded with the thorns placed therein at every moment by the blasphemies and ingratitude of ungrateful humanity. We are moved by the ardent desire of loving you as Our Mother and of promising a true devotion to your Immaculate Heart. We therefore kneel before you to manifest the sorrow we feel for the grievances that people cause you, and to atone by our prayers and sacrifices for the offenses with which they return your love. Obtain for them and for us the pardon of so many sins. Hasten the conversion of sinners that they may love Jesus Christ and cease to offend the Lord, already so much offended. Turn your eyes of mercy toward us, that we may love God with all our heart on earth and enjoy him forever in Heaven.
6 Brief talk on Blessed Virgin Mary
Remember, O most gracious Virgin Mary, that never was it known that anyone who fled to thy protection, implored thy help, or sought thy intercession was left unaided Inspired by this confidence, I fly unto thee, O Virgin of virgins, my mother; to thee do I come, before thee I stand, sinful and sorrowful. O Mother of the Word Incarnate, despise not my petitions, but in thy mercy hear and answer me. Amen.
Thursday May 18, 2023
THE ASCENSION OF THE LORD (SOLEMNITY)
HOLY DAY OF OBLIGATION
Office: Proper, Te Deum
Mass prop. Gloria. Creed. Preface of Ascension
Eucharistic Prayer I special inserts should be said
Vestment: White
Today’s Rosary: The Luminous Mysteries
Vespers II of the ascension of the Lord
THE ASCENSION OF THE LORD: A Community with Its Eyes on the Earth. The gospel and the first reading recount how Jesus entered the glory of his Father. But the images used are not easy for us to understand and we run the risk of looking on the feast of Ascension with our eyes raised to the sky. This is exactly the opposite of what we should do. It is a feast that invites us to look to earth, to people among whom we are called to make present the work of the Master. Though Jesus was no longer visible, the disciples were full of joy and the gospel hints at the reason for it. And these same reasons should cause us to be joyful too. The second reading completes the message. Even though we must keep our eyes on the earth, we know that human life is not enclosed by it nor does it end within the narrow confines of this world.
-FIRST READING-
“As they were looking on, he was lifted up.”
The beginning of the Acts of the Apostles (Acts 1:1-11)
In the first book, O Theophilus, I have dealt with all that Jesus began to do and teach, until the day when he was taken up, after he had given commandment through the Holy Spirit to the apostles whom he had chosen. To them he presented himself alive after his passion by many proofs, appearing to them during forty days, and speaking of the kingdom of God. And while staying with them he charged them not to depart from Jerusalem, but to wait for the promise of the Father, which, he said, “you heard from me, for John baptised with water, but before many days you shall be baptised with the Holy Spirit.” So when they had come together, they asked him, "Lord, will you at this time restore the kingdom to Israel?” He said to them, “It is not for you to know times or seasons which the Father has fixed by his own authority. But you shall receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you; and you shall be my witnesses in Jerusalem and in all Judea and Samaria and to the end of the earth.” And when he had said this, as they were looking on, he was lifted up, and a cloud took him out of their sight. And while they were gazing into heaven as he went, behold, two men stood by them in white robes, and said, “Men of Galilee, why do you stand looking into heaven? This Jesus, who was taken up from you into heaven, will come in the same way as you saw him go into heaven.”
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Psalm 47:2-3.6-7.8-9 (R. 6)
R/. God has gone up with shouts of joy.
The Lord goes up with trumpet blast.
Or: Alleluia.
All peoples, clap your hands.
Cry to God with shouts of joy!
For the Lord, the Most High, is awesome,
the great king over all the earth. R/.
God goes up with shouts of joy.
The Lord goes up with trumpet blast.
Sing praise for God; sing praise!
Sing praise to our king; sing praise! R/.
R/. God has gone up with shouts of joy.
The Lord goes up with trumpet blast.
Or: Alleluia.
God is king of all the earth.
Sing praise with all your skill.
God reigns over the nations.
God sits upon his holy throne. R/.
-SECOND READING-
“He made him sit at his right hand in the heavenly places.”
A reading from the Letter of Saint Paul to the Ephesians (Ephesians 1:17-23)
Brethren: May the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, give you a spirit of wisdom and of revelation in the knowledge of him, having the eyes of your hearts enlightened, that you may know what is the hope to which he has called you, what are the riches of his glorious inheritance in the saints, and what is the immeasurable greatness of his power in us who believe, according to the working of his great might which he accomplished in Christ when he raised him from the dead and made him sit at his right hand in the heavenly places, far above all rule and authority and power and dominion and above every name that is named, not only in this age but also in that which is to come; and he has put all things under his feet and has made him the head over all things for the Church, which is his body, the fullness of him who fills all in all.
The word of the Lord.
ALLELUIA Matthew 28: 19a.20b
Alleluia. Go and make disciples of all nations, says the Lord; I am with you always, to the close of the age. Alleluia.
-GOSPEL-
“You will be sorrowful, but your sorrow will turn into joy.”
A reading from the holy Gospel according to John (John 28:16-20)
At that time: Jesus said to his disciples, “A little while, and you will see me no more; again a little while, and you will see me.” Some of his disciples said to one another, “What is this that he says to us, ‘A little while, and you will not see me, and again a little while, and you will see me’; and, ‘because I go to the Father’? They said, “What does he mean by ‘a little while’? We do not know what he means.” Jesus knew that they wanted to ask him; so he said to them, “Is this what you are asking yourselves, what I meant by saying, ‘A little while, and you will not see me, and again a little while, and you will see me’? Truly, truly, I say to you, you will weep and lament, but the world will rejoice; you will be sorrowful, but your sorrow will turn into joy.”
The Gospel of the Lord.
PRAYER OF THE FAITHFUL
Celebrant:
Christ ascended into heaven but continues to dwell among us in various ways, especially in the Eucharist. Let us ask him for the graces we need to prepare for his second Coming.
FOR THE CHURCH: that she may continue to be a sign of Christ’s presence in the life of all persons, especially those who are going through difficult times. Let us pray to the Lord.
FOR OUR COUNTRY: that the choice of those to serve in public offices may be primarily motivated by competence and equity, and not ethnicity and kinship. Let us pray to the Lord.
FOR CATECHISTS, PREACHERS AND EVANGELISERS: that, guided by the Holy Spirit and through their teachings and life of witnessing, they may continuously make disciples of all nations. Let us pray to the Lord.
FOR THIS COMMUNITY OF BELIEVERS: that God may grant us the grace to always seek what is above, so that at the end of our lives on earth, we may ascend to be united with Christ in heaven. Let us pray to the Lord.
FOR OTHER INTENTIONS: (the sick, church projects or other activities).
FOR THE DEAD, ESPECIALLY THOSE OF OUR PARISH COMMUNITY AND FAMILY MEMBERS: that they may find eternal rest with the Lord. Let us pray to the Lord.
We pray in silence for our private intentions.
Celebrant:
Almighty God and Father, hear the prayers we have made to you and grant that after our earthly lives, we may ascend to that place where your Son has gone before in glory. Through the same Christ our Lord.
R/. Amen.
TODAY'S REFLECTION
St Luke begins the Acts of the Apostles with a detailed account of the Ascension of the Lord. The activities of the early church begin with the departure of the Lord. At the Ascension scene, the disciples stood still, looking up to heaven in wonder and amazement. It’s hard to describe their feelings as their Lord and Master disappeared from their sight. However, the two men in white robes reminded them of their new responsibility in the event of the ascension of the Lord. “Men of Galilee, why do you stand looking into heaven…?” this means that they have to go to the ends of the earth to be his witnesses, as Jesus had mandated them to. They have a mission to fulfil by moving out of their comfort zones to the dusty roads of suffering and struggle with the good news. They are assured of the accompaniment of the Lord in their mission: “… and behold, I am with you always, to the close of the age.” Although he sits “at his right hand in the heavenly places, far above all rule and authority and power and dominion and above every name that is named,” he continues to live in our hearts, our homes and in our communities. Lord, make me your humble servant always.
PERSONAL DEVOTIONAL: Day 18 May Devotion
If you are looking for an inspiration on what true love is, we can find it in the life of our Mother Mary for she knows what true love is and gave so much of it to the world.
Anyone who chooses to love as Jesus loves, must be willing to give something and our Mother Mary gave everything to take care of Jesus and at the same time extended the same care to us her children by constantly interceding for us before Jesus and obtaining for us the good we desire. We must look at her example and begin to give more of ourselves to God in love for humanity.
Meditation: John 21:20-25
Prayer:
Lord Jesus Christ, fill my heart with your love as you did for your mother the Blessed Virgin Mary. May I give more love to the world as you gave to me and in the end may your love conquer every evil. Amen. And May the Almighty God bless you: the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit. Amen.
M A Y D E V O T I O N
Program of Daily Events for May Devotion (Personal / Group)
O my God because you’re so good, I am very sorry that I have sinned against you and by the help of your grace I will not sin again.
O most pure heart of Mary, full of goodness, show your love towards us. Let the flame of your heart, O Mary, descend on all people. We love you immensely. Impress on our hearts true love so that we may long for you. O Mary, gentle and humble of heart, remember us when we sin. You know that all we sin. Grant that through your most pure and motherly heart, we may be healed from every spiritual sickness. Grant that we may always experience the goodness of your motherly heart, and that through the flame of your heart we may be converted. Amen.
(Begin with the invocation of the Holy Spirit: Come, O Holy Spirit, fill the heart……….
O Most Holy Virgin, and Our Mother, we listen with grief to the complaints of your immaculate Heart surrounded with the thorns placed therein at every moment by the blasphemies and ingratitude of ungrateful humanity. We are moved by the ardent desire of loving you as Our Mother and of promising a true devotion to your Immaculate Heart. We therefore kneel before you to manifest the sorrow we feel for the grievances that people cause you, and to atone by our prayers and sacrifices for the offenses with which they return your love. Obtain for them and for us the pardon of so many sins. Hasten the conversion of sinners that they may love Jesus Christ and cease to offend the Lord, already so much offended. Turn your eyes of mercy toward us, that we may love God with all our heart on earth and enjoy him forever in Heaven.
Remember, O most gracious Virgin Mary, that never was it known that anyone who fled to thy protection, implored thy help, or sought thy intercession was left unaided Inspired by this confidence, I fly unto thee, O Virgin of virgins, my mother; to thee do I come, before thee I stand, sinful and sorrowful. O Mother of the Word Incarnate, despise not my petitions, but in thy mercy hear and answer me. Amen.
Friday May 19, 2023
Weekday of Easter (6)
Office: Psalter Week 2
Mass of the day; Preface of Easter or Ascension
Vestment: White
Today’s Rosary: The Sorrowful Mysteries
9-DAYS NOVENA WITH FASTING AND PRAYERS TO THE HOLY SPIRIT
IN PREPARATION FOR PENTECOST FRIDAY MAY 19 – SATURDAY MAY 28
DAY 1: "I BELIEVE IN THE HOLY SPIRIT"
ENTRANCE ANTIPHON Rv 5:9-10
You have redeemed us, Lord, by your blood, from every tribe and tongue and people and nation, and have made us a kingdom and priests for our God, alleluia.
COLLECT
O God, who restore us to eternal life in the Resurrection of Christ, raise us up, we pray, to the author of our salvation, who is seated at your right hand, so that when our Saviour comes again in majesty, those you have given new birth in Baptism may be clothed with blessed immortality. Through our Lord...
-FIRST READING-
“I have many people in this city.”
A reading from the Acts of the Apostles (Acts 18:9-18)
[When Paul was in Corinth,] the Lord said to him one night in a vision, “Do not be afraid, but speak and do not be silent; for I am with you, and no man shall attack you to harm you; for I have many people in this city.” And he stayed a year and six months, teaching the word of God among them. But when Gallio was proconsul of Achaia, the Jews made a united attack upon Paul and brought him before the tribunal, saying, “This man is persuading men to worship God contrary to the law.” But when Paul was about to open his mouth, Gallio said to the Jews, “If it were a matter of wrongdoing or vicious crime, I should have reason to bear with you, O Jews; but since it is a matter of questions about words and names and your own law, see to it yourselves; I refuse to be a judge of these things.” And he drove them from the tribunal. And they all seized Sosthenes, the ruler of the synagogue, and beat him in front of the tribunal. But Gallio paid no attention to this. After this Paul stayed many days longer, and then took leave of the brethren and sailed for Syria, and with him Priscilla and. Aquila. At Cenchreae he cut his hair, for he had a vow.
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Psalm 47:2-3.4-5.6-7 (R. 8a)
R/. God is king of all the earth.
Or: Alleluia.
All peoples, clap your hands.
Cry to God with shouts of joy!
For the Lord, the Most High, is awesome,
the great king over all the earth. R/.
He humbles peoples under us
and nations under our feet.
Our heritage he chose for us,
the pride of Jacob whom he loves. R/.
R/. God is king of all the earth.
Or: Alleluia.
God goes up with shouts of joy.
The Lord goes up with trumpet blast.
Sing praise for God; sing praise!
Sing praise to our king; sing praise! R/.
Alleluia Matthew 28: 19a, 20b
Alleluia. Go and make disciples of all nations, says the Lord; I am with you always, to the close of the age. Alleluia.
-GOSPEL-
“No one will take your joy from you.”
A reading from the holy Gospel according to John (John 16:20-23a)
At that time: Jesus said to his disciples, “Truly, truly, I say to you, you will weep and lament, but the world will rejoice; you will be sorrowful, but your sorrow will turn into joy. When a woman is in labour, she has pain, because her hour has come; but when she is delivered of the child, she no longer remembers the anguish, for joy that a child is born into the world. So you have sorrow now, but I will see you again and your hearts will rejoice, and no one will take your joy from you. In that day you will ask nothing of me.”
The Gospel of the Lord.
TODAY'S REFLECTION
The theme of sorrow and joy of yesterday’s gospel is continued in today’s passage. Jesus tells his disciples that life is a mixture of sorrow and joy, weeping and rejoicing, anguish and ecstasy. But such moments of sorrow, tears and anguish do not last long. There will be the bright light at the end of the tunnel. The trees shed old leaves only to produce new and fresh ones. The grain of wheat dies in order to produce a new plant and more grains. The pain and anguish of childbirth will turn into an ecstatic experience of watching the new born. Our sorrow and tears in this world will turn into the joy of heavenly bliss. Lord, help me to focus on heaven even in the midst of pains and sorrows of this world.
PERSONAL DEVOTIONAL: Day 19 May Devotion
God has blessed us with the gift of our mouth to praise and glorify Him and we must make use of it to proclaim the Good News and witness for Christ.
Our Mother Mary was not a gossip. She made use of her lips to praise God and to proclaim His glory. We must learn from her to use our mouth to praise God and not to gossip, spread fake news and confuse people. When we praise God with our mouth we show gratitude to Him for making us who we are. Therefore, resolve today not to gossip with your mouth anymore, but to witness for God with it.
Meditation: John 21:20-25
Prayer:
Lord Jesus Christ, help me to use my lips to praise you and witness for you and not to gossip and confuse people. May I show people the way to you who is the truth. Amen. And May the Almighty God bless you: the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit. Amen.
9-DAYS NOVENA WITH FASTING AND PRAYERS TO THE HOLY SPIRIT
IN PREPARATION FOR PENTECOST FRIDAY MAY 19 – SATURDAY MAY 28
DAY 1: "I BELIEVE IN THE HOLY SPIRIT"
INTRODUCTION - As we begin our Novena to the Holy Spirit, let us be aware that we are the Church. It is in the assembly of God's people where the Holy Spirit makes Himself known. This is an assembly of God's people with Jesus as our Head. As we become aware of being God's people, we also become aware of our many failures to live up to our calling, our selfishness, our lack of love and concern for people in our family and among our neighbours and friends. We, therefore, begin by asking pardon of God for our many failures to be truly God's people.
PRAYER POINT: Dear Lord Jesus, I ask you to send forth the power of the Holy Spirit into the lives of everyone in our parish community and all of us using this Catholic Missal App. If any members of the clergy are ensnared with the sins of clericalism, legalism, hypocrisy, spiritual pride, complacency, teaching false doctrines, exhibiting pharisaic attitudes, or displaying an outward form of godliness while inwardly denying your power, I ask you to send forth the gift of your Holy Spirit’s conviction. If any member of the laity is polluting the spiritual atmosphere of the church through their sins of idol worship, clergy worship, superstitious behaviours, complacency, spiritual stagnation, legalism, materialism, gossip, judgmental or pharisaic attitudes, I ask you to send forth the power of your Holy Spirit to convict us of our sins. Gently lead all sinners back into a state of grace where they can authentically connect and commune with you in spirit and in truth. Please purify the spiritual atmosphere and airspace that surrounds your sacred assembly. Cleanse the congregation so that your Holy Spirit may dwell inside the lives and hearts of all your beloved children. May the grandeur of your holy presence be so profoundly encountered within your courts that all your children will be ignited with a fervent passion to serve you all the days of their lives. I ask this through my Lord Jesus Christ, your son, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, forever and ever. Amen.
(Invocation of the Holy Spirit)
Come, O Holy Spirit, fill the hearts of the faithful and enkindle in them the fire of your love.
Let Us pray:
O God, who taught the hearts of the faithful by the light of the Holy Spirit, grant that by the gift of the same Spirit we may be always truly wise and ever rejoice in his consolation, Through Christ Our Lord.
R/. Amen
Our Father who art in heaven, hallowed be Thy Name. Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread, and forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us, and lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. Amen.
Hail Mary, full of grace, the Lord is with thee: blessed art thou amongst women, and blessed is the fruit of thy womb, Jesus. Holy Mary, Mother of God, pray for us sinners, now, and at the hour of our death. Amen.
Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit. As it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, world without end. Amen. (7x)
O LORD JESUS CHRIST, Who before ascending into Heaven didst promise to send the Holy Ghost to finish Thy work in the souls of thine Apostles and Disciples, deign to grant the same Holy Spirit to me, that He may perfect in my soul the work of Thy grace and Thy love. Grant me the Spirit of Wisdom, that I may despise the perishable things of this world and aspire only after the things that are eternal; the Spirit of Understanding, to enlighten my mind with the light of Thy Divine truth; the Spirit of Counsel, that I may ever choose the surest way of pleasing God and gaining Heaven; the Spirit of Fortitude, that I may bear my cross with Thee and that I may overcome with courage all the obstacles that oppose my salvation; the Spirit of Knowledge, that I may know God and know myself and grow perfect in the science of the Saints; the Spirit of Piety, that I may find the service of God sweet and amiable; the Spirit of Fear, that I may be filled with a loving reverence towards God and may dread in any way to displease Him. Mark me, Dear Lord, with the sign of Thy true disciples, and animate me in all things with Thy Spirit. Amen.
Breathe into me Holy Spirit that my thoughts may all be holy.
Move in me, Holy Spirit that my work too, may be holy.
Attract my heart Holy Spirit that I may love only what is holy.
Strengthen me Holy Spirit that I may defend all that is holy.
Protect me, Holy Spirit that I may always be holy.
Father, Son and Holy Spirit, I know that my body is Your Temple. I believe and trust that you are the source of life, Almighty God, our Creator. My whole body is filled with your life and love. Lord Jesus, touch me with your Precious Blood and wash away all my sins.
I ask your forgiveness for every sin of mine. Heal me of all the hurts, anger, guilt feelings and all painful memories that linger in my deepest being. I have sinned, Lord, against you and against my neighbour. Jesus, you are present in the Eucharist. Lord, do come into my heart. While you are in my heart, I have nothing to fear, for you are the Son of God, and in my heart you are near.
In you is life, and in your life, Lord Jesus, I find life. You touched the bleeding woman and healed her. Have mercy on me, Lord. It is You Who guide me with your strength and make me righteous in your presence. Lord, God, You are almighty. You are merciful. You have touched me and healed me of all my ailments of soul, mind and body. I thank you specially for bringing me closer to you, for loving and protecting me and for healing me completely. With deep faith in my heart, I adore You my loving Jesus Who with the Father and the Holy Spirit are God for ever and ever. Amen.
Saturday May 20, 2023
ST BERNADINE OF SIENA, P. (Opt. Mem.)
Office: Psalter Week 2
Mass of the day or Memorial
Preface of Easter or Ascension
Vestment: White
Today’s Rosary: The Joyful Mysteries
Vespers 1 of 7th Sunday of Easter.
9-Day Novena with Fasting and Prayers to the Holy Spirit in Preparation for Pentecost
DAY 2: THE JOINT MISSION OF THESON AND THE HOLY SPIRIT
ENTRANCE ANTIPHON
O chosen people, proclaim the mighty works of him, who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light, alleluia.
COLLECT
O God, whose Son, at his Ascension to the heavens, was pleased to promise the Holy Spirit to the Apostles, grant, we pray, that just as they received manifold gifts of heavenly teaching, so on us, too, you may bestow spiritual gifts Through our Lord...
-FIRST READING-
Apollos showed by the Scriptures that the Christ was Jesus.
A reading from the Acts of the Apostles (Acts 18:23-28)
After spending some time in Antioch, Paul departed and went from place to place through the region of Galatia and Phrygia, strengthening all the disciples. Now a Jew named Apollos, a native of Alexandria, came to Ephesus. He was an eloquent man, well versed in the Scriptures. He had been instructed in the way of the Lord; and being fervent in spirit, he spoke and taught accurately the things concerning Jesus, though he knew only the baptism of John. He began to speak boldly in the synagogue; but when Priscilla and Aquila heard him, they took him and expounded to him the way of God more accurately. And when he wished to cross to Achaia, the brethren encouraged him, and wrote to the disciples to receive him. When he arrived, he greatly helped those who through grace had believed, for he powerfully confuted the Jews in public, showing by the Scriptures that the Christ was Jesus.
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Psalm 47:2-3.8-9.1 0 (R. 8a)
R/. God is king of all the earth.
Or: Alleluia.
All peoples, clap your hands.
Cry to God with shouts of joy!
For the Lord, the Most High, is awesome,
the great king over all the earth. R/.
God is king of all the earth.
Sing praise with all your skill.
God reigns over the nations.
God sits upon his holy throne. R/.
R/. God is king of all the earth.
Or: Alleluia.
The princes of the peoples are assembled
with the people of the God of Abraham.
The rulers of the earth belong to God,
who is greatly exalted. R/.
ALLELUIA Colossians 3: 1
Alleluia. If then you have been raised with Christ, Seek the things that are above, where Christ is seated at the right hand of God. Alleluia.
-GOSPEL-
My Father loves you because you have loved me and believed in me.
A reading from the holy Gospel according to John (John 16:23b-28)
At that time: Jesus said to his disciples, “Truly, truly, I say to you, if you ask anything of the Father, he will give it to you in my name. Until now you have asked nothing in my name; ask, and you will receive, that your joy may be full. I have said this to you in figures; the hour is coming when I shall no longer speak to you in figures but tell you plainly of the Father. In that day you will ask in my name; and I do not say to you that I shall ask the Father for you; for the Father himself loves you, because you have loved me and have believed that I came from the Father. I came from the Father and have come into the world; again, I am leaving the world and going to the Father.”
The Gospel of the Lord.
TODAY'S REFLECTION
Anyone who loves Jesus and believes that he came from the Father to save the world has access to divine provisions through the name of Jesus. Any disciple of Jesus is entitled to anything he asks in the name of Jesus. However, entitlement does not automatically mean possession. Jesus tells us that we are entitled to have anything if we ask. We shall possess whatever we ask the Father in the name of Jesus because we are entitled to ask and receive. Paul, Apollos, and many others were answered prayers of the disciples of Jesus. Let us ask God for the grace to be, to have, and to love in the name of Jesus.
PERSONAL DEVOTIONAL: Day 20 May Devotion
The Holy Spirit gives life and guide to those who submit to Him. He was with Jesus throughout His mission on earth and when He was leaving the earth He promised His disciples that the Holy Spirit will be with them too.
Our Mother Mary received the Holy Spirit and He worked in her and guided her through her mission. She was open to the Holy Spirit and made herself available to be used by Him as a channel to bless the world. We must let the Holy Spirit fall afresh upon us, to break us, melt us, mold us, fill us and use us to change the face of the earth.
Meditation: Acts 2:1-11/John 20:19-23
Prayer:
Holy Spirit of God, I surrender myself and faculties under your supreme power. Make use of me as you did the Blessed Virgin Mary, so that through me you will bring your glory and presence to those who open their heart to receive you. Amen. And May the Almighty God bless you: the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit. Amen.
TODAY'S SAINT: St Bernadine of Siena - May 20th
You must know that when you ‘hail’ Mary, she immediately greets you! Don’t think that she is one of those rude women of whom there are so many — on the contrary, she is utterly courteous and pleasant. If you greet her, she will answer you right away and converse with you!
9-DAYS NOVENA WITH FASTING AND PRAYERS TO THE HOLY SPIRIT
IN PREPARATION FOR PENTECOST
DAY 2: THE JOINT MISSION OF THE SON AND THE HOLY SPIRIT
INTRODUCTION - We are familiar with the verse "For God so loved the world that he gave his only Son" (Jn 3: 16). Together with His Son, God sent the Holy Spirit also since the Holy Spirit is the Spirit of Love. The Holy Spirit being of one substance with the Father and the Son, can never be separated from them. The Son and the Spirit are distinct Persons but can never be separated. To forget the Holy Spirit is the cause of many mistakes on our part. While we are happy to know that "God is Love" (1 Jn 4: 16), how often we Christians are wanting in this very spirit of love! Because of our lack of love, our families are often unhappy and the world in which we live becomes a place of injustice and of violence. As we begin our prayer to the Holy Spirit let us become aware of our lack of His Spirit of Love and ask pardon for it.
PRAYER POINT:
Ask the Holy Spirit to come and dwell in you and illuminate your mind as you embark on this journey of faith
Invocation of the Holy Spirit
Come, O Holy Spirit, fill the hearts of the faithful and enkindle in them the fire of your love.
Let Us pray:
O God, who taught the hearts of the faithful by the light of the Holy Spirit, grant that by the gift of the same Spirit we may be always truly wise and ever rejoice in his consolation, Through Christ Our Lord.
R/. Amen
Our Father who art in heaven, hallowed be Thy Name. Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread, and forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us, and lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. Amen.
Hail Mary, full of grace, the Lord is with thee: blessed art thou amongst women, and blessed is the fruit of thy womb, Jesus. Holy Mary, Mother of God, pray for us sinners, now, and at the hour of our death. Amen.
Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit. As it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, world without end. Amen. (7x)
O LORD JESUS CHRIST, Who before ascending into Heaven didst promise to send the Holy Ghost to finish Thy work in the souls of Thine Apostles and Disciples, deign to grant the same Holy Spirit to me, that He may perfect in my soul the work of Thy grace and Thy love. Grant me the Spirit of Wisdom, that I may despise the perishable things of this world and aspire only after the things that are eternal; the Spirit of Understanding, to enlighten my mind with the light of Thy Divine truth; the Spirit of Counsel, that I may ever choose the surest way of pleasing God and gaining Heaven; the Spirit of Fortitude, that I may bear my cross with Thee and that I may overcome with courage all the obstacles that oppose my salvation; the Spirit of Knowledge, that I may know God and know myself and grow perfect in the science of the Saints; the Spirit of Piety, that I may find the service of God sweet and amiable; the Spirit of Fear, that I may be filled with a loving reverence towards God and may dread in any way to displease Him. Mark me, Dear Lord, with the sign of Thy true disciples, and animate me in all things with Thy Spirit. Amen.
Breathe into me Holy Spirit that my thoughts may all be holy.
Move in me, Holy Spirit that my work too, may be holy.
Attract my heart Holy Spirit that I may love only what is holy.
Strengthen me Holy Spirit that I may defend all that is holy.
Protect me, Holy Spirit that I may always be holy.
LET US PRAY:
Father, Son and Holy Spirit, I know that my body is Your Temple. I believe and trust that you are the source of life, Almighty God, our Creator. My whole body is filled with your life and love. Lord Jesus, touch me with Your Precious Blood and wash away all my sins.
I ask your forgiveness for every sin of mine. Heal me of all the hurts, anger, guilt feelings and all painful memories that linger in my deepest being. I have sinned, Lord, against you and against my neighbour. Jesus, you are present in the Eucharist. Lord, do come into my heart. While you are in my heart, I have nothing to fear, for you are the Son of God, and in my heart you are near.
In you is life, and in your life, Lord Jesus, I find life. You touched the bleeding woman and healed her. Have mercy on me, Lord. It is You Who guide me with your strength and make me righteous in your presence. Lord, God, You are almighty. You are merciful. You have touched me and healed me of all my ailments of soul, mind and body. I thank you specially for bringing me closer to you, for loving and protecting me and for healing me completely. With deep faith in my heart, I adore You my loving Jesus Who with the Father and the Holy Spirit are God for ever and ever. Amen.
Sunday May 21, 2023
7th Sunday of Easter
Office: Psalter Week 3, Te Deum
Mass prop. Gloria. Creed
Preface of Easter
V1 -, R1 -, R2 -,
Vestment: White
Today’s Rosary: The Glorious Mysteries
Evening Prayer II of Seventh Sunday of Easter
World Communications Week Ends
9-day Novena with fasting and prayers to the Holy Spirit in Preparation for Pentecost
DAY 3: THE NAME, TITLES SYMBOLS OF THE HOLY SPIRIT
ENTRANCE ANTIPHON ct. Ps 27:7-9
O Lord, hear my voice, for I have called to you; of you my heart has spoken: Seek his face; hide not your face from me, alleluia.
The Gloria in excels is (Glory to God in the highest) is said.
COLLECT
Graciously hear our supplications, O Lord, so that we, who believe that the Saviour of the human race is with you in your glory, may experience, as he promised, until the end of the world, his abiding presence among us. Who lives and reigns with you. .
-FIRST READING-
“All with one accord devoted themselves to prayer”
A reading from the Acts of the Apostles (Acts 1: 12-14)
[After Jesus was taken up into heaven,] the apostles returned to Jerusalem from the mount called Olivet, which is near Jerusalem, a sabbath day’s journey away; and when they had entered, they went up to the upper room, where they were staying, Peter and John and James and Andrew, Philip and Thomas, Bartholomew and Matthew, James the son of Alphaeus and Simon the Zealot and Judas the son of James. All these with one accord devoted themselves to prayer, together with the women and Mary the mother of Jesus, and with his brethren.
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Psalm 27:1.4.7-8a (R. 13)
R/. I believe I shall see the Lord’s goodness in the land of the living.
Or: Alleluia.
The Lord is my light and my salvation;
whom shall I fear?
The Lord is the stronghold of my life;
whom should I dread? R/.
There is one thing I ask of the Lord,
only this do I seek:
to live in the house of the Lord
all the days of my life,
to gaze on the beauty of the Lord,
to inquire at his temple. R/.
R/. I believe I shall see the Lord’s goodness in the land of the living.
Or: Alleluia.
O Lord, hear my voice when I call;
have mercy and answer me.
Of you my heart has spoken,
“Seek his face.” R/.
-SECOND READING-
“If you are reproached for the name of Christ, you are blessed.”
A reading from the first Letter of Saint Peter (1 Peter 4:13- 16)
Beloved: Rejoice in so far as you share Christ’s sufferings, that you may also rejoice and be glad when his glory is revealed. If you are reproached for the name of Christ, you are blessed, because the spirit of glory and of God rests upon you. But let none of you suffer as a murderer, or a thief, or a wrong-doer, or a mischief-maker; yet if one suffers as a Christian, let him not be ashamed, but under that name let him glorify God.
The word of the Lord.
ALLELUIA Cf. John 14: 18
Alleluia. I will not leave you orphans, says the Lord; I will come back to you, and your hearts will rejoice. Alleluia.
-GOSPEL-
“Father, glorify your Son.”
A reading from the holy Gospel according to John (John 17: 1-11a)
At that time: Jesus lifted up his eyes to heaven and said, “Father, the hour has come; glorify your Son that the Son may glorify you, since you have given him power over all flesh, to give eternal life to all whom you have given him. And this is eternal life, that they know you the only true God, and Jesus Christ whom you have sent. I glorified you on earth, having accomplished the work which you gave me to do; and now, Father, glorify me in your own presence with the glory which I had with you before the world was made. I have manifested your name to the men whom you gave me out of the world; yours they were, and you gave them to me, and they have kept your word. Now they know that everything that you have given me is from you; for I have given them the words which you gave me, and they have received them and know in truth that I came from you; and they have believed that you did send me. I am praying for them; I am not praying for the world but for those whom you have given me, for they are yours; all mine are yours, and yours are mine, and I am glorified in them. And now I am no more in the world, but they are in the world, and I am coming to you.”
The Gospel of the Lord.
PRAYER OF THE FAITHFUL
Celebrant:
Our Lord, Jesus Christ, glorified his father by faithfully accomplishing the saving mission he came to fulfil on earth. Let us pray for the grace to be zealous in carrying out the work of evangelization entrusted to us by Christ.
FOR THE CHURCH: that ordained ministers, religious men and women, and lay persons involved in apostolic work may understand how to promote missionary enthusiasm among the people entrusted to their care. Let us pray to the Lord.
FOR THOSE IN AUTHORITY: that, like the Apostles, they may be conscious of the need to work for unity and the common good of the people they have been called to serve. Let us pray to the Lord.
FOR YOUNG PEOPLE: that they may learn to use modern means of social communications for their personal growth, the propagation of the Gospel and to foster unity in the world. Let us pray to the Lord.
FOR THIS WORSHIPPING COMMUNITY: that, by the power of the Holy Spirit, there may be a spiritual re-awakening in us, so that, through us, more persons may come to know and accept the only true God. Let us pray to the Lord.
FOR OTHER INTENTIONS: (the sick, church projects or other activities).
FOR THE DEAD, ESPECIALLY THOSE OF OUR PARISH COMMUNITY AND FAMILY MEMBERS: that they may find eternal rest with the Lord. We pray O Lord.
We pray in silence for our private intentions.
Celebrant:
O God our heavenly Father, you glorified your son through his death and Resurrection. In your mercy, hear our prayers and grant that, at the end of our earthly lives, we may come to share in that same glory. Through Christ our Lord.
R/. Amen.
TODAY'S REFLECTION
The first reading describes how the apostles, together with Mary, the Mother of Jesus and other women are in the upper room, devoting themselves to prayer. They find their hope and consolation in being together and praying in the absence of their Master and Lord. Jesus passionately prays to his Father before his passion and death. His prayer is not so much for himself but for the disciples the Father has given him. He entrusts his disciples to the father saying, “For they are yours; all mine are yours, and yours are mine, and I am glorified in them.” St Peter in the second reading tells us that sharing in the sufferings of Christ is cause for rejoicing as it will lead to sharing in the glory of Christ. If we are subjected to reproaches for the sake of the name of Christ, it means that the spirit of glory and of God rests upon us. Being followers of Christ is not our choice, but it is God’s providential grace. We are God’s adopted children through the sufferings and death of Christ. We share in the sufferings of Christ, but destined to rejoice also in his glory. Lord, grant that we may find our hope and joy in living as a true community of faith and prayer.
PERSONAL DEVOTIONAL: Day 21 May Devotion
In her role as the Mother of Jesus and the Mother of the Church the Blessed Virgin Mary did not disappoint. She gave her all in taking care of Jesus and she extended the same care and commitment to taking care of us her beloved children.
A good mother will always be there for her children no matter the situation. She was there at Calvary and she was also there at the upper room taking care of the apostles. We must honour her always as our Mother and go to her in prayers to seek her maternal help and intercession for the needs of our lives. She took care of Jesus and she will take care of us if we let her be our Mother also.
Meditation: Genesis 3:9-15, 20/Acts 1:12-14
Prayer:
Lord Jesus Christ, you gave us your Mother to be the Mother of the Church. May we learn from her to love the Church and to do our best to do your will always so that we will be with you in heaven on the last day. Amen. And May the Almighty God bless you: the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit. Amen.
TODAY'S SAINT: St Christopher Magallanes, P, & Companions, M.
Christopher was born in 1869 in Mexico and as a priest, distinguished himself for his faith and apostolic zeal. He was sent as a missionary among the ‘Huichole’ and spread devotion to Our Lady through the Rosary. He was loved by his confreres because of his wisdom and guidance. Having shown care for vocations, when the seminary of Guadalajara was closed because of the persecutions against the Church, he took care of the seminary by hosting them in his mission. On 25 May 1927 he was killed because of his faith along with another priest, Agustin Caloca, and several lay people.
9-DAYS NOVENA WITH FASTING AND PRAYERS TO THE HOLY SPIRIT
IN PREPARATION FOR PENTECOST
DAY 3: THE NAME, TITLES SYMBOLS OF THE HOLY SPIRIT
INTRODUCTION:
The Church has received the name Holy Spirit from 'GOD" - 'breath of God' and professes it in Baptism - "baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit". The name Spirit means breath, air, wind. This is the image Jesus used when speaking to Nicodemus: "Truly, truly, I say You, unless one is born of water and the Spirit, he cannot enter the kingdom of God." We all have been baptized and received a "share in the divine nature" (2 Pt 1:4), still we fail to let this divine nature grow in us. Often we give way to the "works of the flesh", described by St. Paul in Gals: 19-21. Being aware of our resistance to the "Breath of God", the Holy Spirit, let us ask pardon:
PRAYER POINT:
Pray for those who have heard the word but have refused to repent; that God would open their hearts to the wisdom of the Gospel of light.
Pray for our brothers and sisters who are backsliding in the faith.
Pray for the strengthening of new converts to Christianity and for those facing persecutions because of their faith in Christ, especially Christians in most parts of the world.
Invocation of the Holy Spirit
Come, O Holy Spirit, fill the hearts of the faithful and enkindle in them the fire of your love.
Let Us pray:
O God, who taught the hearts of the faithful by the light of the Holy Spirit, grant that by the gift of the same Spirit we may be always truly wise and ever rejoice in his consolation, Through Christ Our Lord.
R/. Amen
Our Father who art in heaven, hallowed be Thy Name. Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread, and forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us, and lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. Amen.
Hail Mary, full of grace, the Lord is with thee: blessed art thou amongst women, and blessed is the fruit of thy womb, Jesus. Holy Mary, Mother of God, pray for us sinners, now, and at the hour of our death. Amen.
Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit. As it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, world without end. Amen. (7x)
O LORD JESUS CHRIST, Who before ascending into Heaven didst promise to send the Holy Ghost to finish Thy work in the souls of Thine Apostles and Disciples, deign to grant the same Holy Spirit to me, that He may perfect in my soul the work of Thy grace and Thy love. Grant me the Spirit of Wisdom, that I may despise the perishable things of this world and aspire only after the things that are eternal; the Spirit of Understanding, to enlighten my mind with the light of Thy Divine truth; the Spirit of Counsel, that I may ever choose the surest way of pleasing God and gaining Heaven; the Spirit of Fortitude, that I may bear my cross with Thee and that I may overcome with courage all the obstacles that oppose my salvation; the Spirit of Knowledge, that I may know God and know myself and grow perfect in the science of the Saints; the Spirit of Piety, that I may find the service of God sweet and amiable; the Spirit of Fear, that I may be filled with a loving reverence towards God and may dread in any way to displease Him. Mark me, Dear Lord, with the sign of Thy true disciples, and animate me in all things with Thy Spirit. Amen.
Breathe into me Holy Spirit that my thoughts may all be holy.
Move in me, Holy Spirit that my work too, may be holy.
Attract my heart Holy Spirit that I may love only what is holy.
Strengthen me Holy Spirit that I may defend all that is holy.
Protect me, Holy Spirit that I may always be holy.
LET US PRAY: (To be recited together by all)
Father, Son and Holy Spirit, I know that my body is Your Temple. I believe and trust that you are the source of life, Almighty God, our Creator. My whole body is filled with your life and love. Lord Jesus, touch me with Your Precious Blood and wash away all my sins.
I ask your forgiveness for every sin of mine. Heal me of all the hurts, anger, guilt feelings and all painful memories that linger in my deepest being. I have sinned, Lord, against you and against my neighbour. Jesus, you are present in the Eucharist. Lord, do come into my heart. While you are in my heart, I have nothing to fear, for you are the Son of God, and in my heart you are near.
In you is life, and in your life, Lord Jesus, I find life. You touched the bleeding woman and healed her. Have mercy on me, Lord. It is You Who guide me with your strength and make me righteous in your presence. Lord, God, You are almighty. You are merciful. You have touched me and healed me of all my ailments of soul, mind and body. I thank you specially for bringing me closer to you, for loving and protecting me and for healing me completely. With deep faith in my heart, I adore You my loving Jesus Who with the Father and the Holy Spirit are God for ever and ever. Amen.
Monday May 22, 2023
Weekday of Easter (7)
Office: Psalter Week 3
Mass of the day. Preface of Easter or Ascension
Vestment: White
Today’s Rosary: The Joyful Mysteries
9 Day Novena with fasting and prayers to the Holy Spirit in Preparation for Pentecost
DAY 4: THE ROLE OF THE HOLY SPIRIT IN GOD'S PLAN OF SALVATION
ENTRANCE ANTIPHON Acts 1:8
You will receive the power of the Holy Spirit coming upon you, and you will be my witnesses, even to the ends of the earth, alleluia.
COLLECT
May the power of the Holy Spirit come to us, we pray, O Lord, that we may keep your will faithfully in mind and express it in a devout way of life. Through our Lord...
-FIRST READING-
“Did you receive the Holy Spirit when you believed?”
A reading from the Acts of the Apostles (Acts 19:1-8)
While Apollos was at Corinth, Paul passed through the upper country and came to Ephesus. There he found some disciples. And he said to them, “Did you receive the Holy Spirit when you believed?” And they said, “No, we have never even heard that there is a Holy Spirit.” And he said, “Into what then were you baptised?” They said, “Into John’s baptism.” And Paul said, “John baptised with the baptism of repentance, telling the people to believe in the one who was to come after him, that is, Jesus.” On hearing this, they were baptised in the name of the Lord Jesus. And when Paul had laid his hands upon them, the Holy Spirit came on them; and they spoke with tongues and prophesied. There were about twelve of them in all. And he entered the synagogue and for three months spoke boldly, arguing and pleading about the kingdom of God.
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Psalm 68:2-3.4-5ac.6-7ab (R. sec 33a)
R/. You kingdoms of the earth, sing to God.
Or: Alleluia.
Let God arise; let his foes be scattered.
Let those who hate him flee from his face.
As smoke is driven away, so drive them away;
like wax that melts before the fire,
so the wicked shall perish at the presence of God. R/.
But the just shall rejoice at the presence of God;
they shall exult with glad rejoicing.
O sing to God; make music to his name.
The Lord is his name. R/.
R/. You kingdoms of the earth, sing to God.
Or: Alleluia.
Father of orphans, defender of widows:
such is God in his holy place.
God gives the desolate a home to dwell in;
he leads the prisoners forth into prosperity. R/.
ALLELUIA Colossians 3: 1
Alleluia. If then you have been raised with Christ, seek the things that are above, where Christ is seated at the right hand of God. Alleluia.
-GOSPEL-
“Be of good cheer I have overcome the world.”
A reading from the holy Gospel according to John (John 16:29-33)
At that time: The disciples said to Jesus, "Ah, now you are speaking plainly, not in any figure! Now we know that you know all things, and need none to question you; by this we believe that you came from God.” Jesus answered them, “Do you now believe? The hour is coming, indeed it has come, when you will be scattered, every man to his home, and will leave me alone; yet I am not alone, for the Father is with me. I have said this to you, that in me you may have peace. In the world you have tribulation; but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world.”
The Gospel of the Lord.
TODAY'S REFLECTION
Jesus says he has overcome the world. It is the world that is opposed to the kingdom that Jesus has come to establish. A Christian is being pulled between the forces of this ‘world’ and the forces of God. To be worldly minded means to be controlled by the passions and desires of the flesh. The world tells us to make money, eat, drink and make merry. Life is short; therefore try to get maximum out of the world and make it yours. Your life is measured by the power you wield, wealth you amass, popularity you command, and the positions you hold. To be Godly-minded like Jesus means to carry your cross daily, to serve others, to welcome the stranger, to visit the sick, to be a Good Samaritan, to be the last in order to be the first, to be like a little child, to be poor in spirit, to enter through the narrow door. This is the sign of overcoming the world. Lord, help me to be on your side even if it means carrying my daily crosses.
BLESSING FOR THE NEW WEEK
Lord Jesus, I bless your name for giving me this day and for making me wake up from sleep strong and healthy. May your most Holy name be praised now and forever. Amen.
I offer to you all that we shall do today. Keep us safe, bless our families, favour the work of our hands and may your presence surround us and may it dispel and ward off every attack of the evil one.
Give me a faith that will be willing and ready to give a helping hand to others so that they will come to you and receive their blessings and miracles.
Through my work may the sick be healed, the eyes of the blind be opened, the deaf hear, the dumb speak and those whose hope is lost find their way back to you O Lord.
Make use of me to your own glory and may I become a channel of upliftment as I step out of my house today. May I be ready and willing to help others and in doing so may I never lack your help in my life. Amen.
It is a new day my dear friend, be positive in mind and heart, put in your best in what you do. Be kind to people, you will definitely receive God’s blessings and your testimonies will be sure at the end of the day.
May God’s help and glory rest upon you so that you will do good in his name. Amen. Help others today and you will find help when you need it.
PERSONAL DEVOTIONAL: Day 22 May Devotion
You cannot please God if you are proud, arrogant and selfish. These are vices and should not be allowed to take root in us in our journey of faith.
Our Blessed Mother Mary was very humble and in her humility she called upon God in prayer and she always received a positive response. We must try to humble ourselves like our Mother Mary before the Lord so that He will exalt us in due time. You lose nothing by being humble, but you can lose everything by being selfish and arrogant. In humility serve your brothers and sisters in this life and God will lift you up someday.
Meditation: James 4:1-10/Mark 9:30-37
Prayer:
Lord Jesus Christ, help me to be humble and to use every opportunity you give me to be at the service of humanity in a manner that will bring glory to your name and may my prayers be answered when I call upon your name. Amen. And May the Almighty God bless you: the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit. Amen.
Today's Saint: ST. RITA OF CASCIA, RELIGIOUS
Rita was born in Italy in 1377. She lived an ordinary life as a married woman until the time when her husband was murdered. Then, in her desire to live a consecrated life, she joined the Augustinian Nuns and spent the rest of her life doing penance and praying out of love for the crucified Lord. She died in 1447.
9-DAYS NOVENA WITH FASTING AND PRAYERS TO THE HOLY SPIRIT
IN PREPARATION FOR PENTECOST
DAY 4: THE ROLE of the HOLY SPIRIT in God's Plan of Salvation
INTRODUCTION - The story of mankind is a story of God's mercy and goodness. Mankind's rejection of grace was followed by God's promise of new life through the Saviour to come. God's offer of grace and our rejection of it are the pattern of life even today. God's love is everlasting. If we want to realize the deepest desires of our hearts, we must begin by opening ourselves to His love. We do this by admitting our wrongdoing and asking pardon for our failures.
PRAYER POINT:
- Ask for the grace to die to flesh and its passions.
- Spend time in worship to the Holy Spirit. (Pray as the Spirit leads)
Invocation of the Holy Spirit
Come, O Holy Spirit, fill the hearts of the faithful and enkindle in them the fire of your love.
Let Us pray:
O God, who taught the hearts of the faithful by the light of the Holy Spirit, grant that by the gift of the same Spirit we may be always truly wise and ever rejoice in his consolation, Through Christ Our Lord.
R/. Amen
Our Father who art in heaven, hallowed be Thy Name. Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread, and forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us, and lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. Amen.
Hail Mary, full of grace, the Lord is with thee: blessed art thou amongst women, and blessed is the fruit of thy womb, Jesus. Holy Mary, Mother of God, pray for us sinners, now, and at the hour of our death. Amen.
Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit. As it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, world without end. Amen. (7x)
O LORD JESUS CHRIST, Who before ascending into Heaven didst promise to send the Holy Ghost to finish Thy work in the souls of Thine Apostles and Disciples, deign to grant the same Holy Spirit to me, that He may perfect in my soul the work of Thy grace and Thy love. Grant me the Spirit of Wisdom, that I may despise the perishable things of this world and aspire only after the things that are eternal; the Spirit of Understanding, to enlighten my mind with the light of Thy Divine truth; the Spirit of Counsel, that I may ever choose the surest way of pleasing God and gaining Heaven; the Spirit of Fortitude, that I may bear my cross with Thee and that I may overcome with courage all the obstacles that oppose my salvation; the Spirit of Knowledge, that I may know God and know myself and grow perfect in the science of the Saints; the Spirit of Piety, that I may find the service of God sweet and amiable; the Spirit of Fear, that I may be filled with a loving reverence towards God and may dread in any way to displease Him. Mark me, Dear Lord, with the sign of Thy true disciples, and animate me in all things with Thy Spirit. Amen.
Breathe into me Holy Spirit that my thoughts may all be holy.
Move in me, Holy Spirit that my work too, may be holy.
Attract my heart Holy Spirit that I may love only what is holy.
Strengthen me Holy Spirit that I may defend all that is holy.
Protect me, Holy Spirit that I may always be holy.
LET US PRAY:
Father, Son and Holy Spirit, I know that my body is Your Temple. I believe and trust that you are the source of life, Almighty God, our Creator. My whole body is filled with your life and love. Lord Jesus, touch me with Your Precious Blood and wash away all my sins.
I ask your forgiveness for every sin of mine. Heal me of all the hurts, anger, guilt feelings and all painful memories that linger in my deepest being. I have sinned, Lord, against you and against my neighbour. Jesus, you are present in the Eucharist. Lord, do come into my heart. While you are in my heart, I have nothing to fear, for you are the Son of God, and in my heart you are near.
In you is life, and in your life, Lord Jesus, I find life. You touched the bleeding woman and healed her. Have mercy on me, Lord. It is You Who guide me with your strength and make me righteous in your presence. Lord, God, You are almighty. You are merciful. You have touched me and healed me of all my ailments of soul, mind and body. I thank you specially for bringing me closer to you, for loving and protecting me and for healing me completely. With deep faith in my heart, I adore You my loving Jesus Who with the Father and the Holy Spirit are God for ever and ever. Amen.
Tuesday May 23, 2023
Weekday of Easter (7)
Office: Psalter week 3
Mass of the day. Preface of Easter or Ascension
Vestment: White
Today’s Rosary: The Sorrowful Mysteries
9-DAYS NOVENA with Fasting and Prayers to the Holy Spirit In preparation for Pentecost
DAY 5: THE MANIFESTATION OF THE HOLY SPIRIT
ENTRANCE ANTIPHON Rv 1:17-18
I am the first and the last, I was dead and am now alive. Behold, I am alive for ever and ever, alleluia.
COLLECT
Grant, we pray, almighty and merciful God, that the Holy Spirit, coming near and dwelling graciously within us, may make of us a perfect temple of his glory. Through our Lord...
-FIRST READING-
I have accomplished my course and the ministry which I received from the Lord Jesus.
A reading from the Acts of the Apostles (Acts 20: 17-27)
In those days: From Miletus Paul went to Ephesus and called to him the elders of the Church. And when they came to him, he said to them: “You yourselves know how I lived among you all the time from the first day that I set foot in Asia, serving the Lord with all humility and with tears and with trials which befell me through the plots of the Jews; how I did not shrink from declaring to you anything that was profitable, and teaching you in public and from house to house, testifying both to Jews and to Greeks of repentance to God and of faith in our Lord Jesus Christ. And now, behold, I am going to Jerusalem, bound in the Spirit, not knowing what shall befall me there; except that the Holy Spirit testifies to me in every city that imprisonment and afflictions await me. But I do not account my life of any value nor as precious to myself, if only I may accomplish my course and the ministry which I received from the Lord Jesus, to testify to the gospel of the grace of God. And now, behold, I know that all you among whom I have gone about preaching the kingdom will see my face no more. Therefore I testify to you this day that I am innocent of the blood of all of you, for I did not shrink from declaring to you the whole counsel of God.”
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Psalm 68: 1 0-11, 20-21 (R. see 33a)
R/. You kingdoms of the earth, sing to God.
Or: Alleluia.
You poured down, O God, a generous rain;
when your people languished,
you restored their inheritance.
It was there that your flock began to dwell.
In your goodness, O God, you provided for the poor. R/.
R/. You kingdoms of the earth, sing to God.
Or: Alleluia.
Day after day, may the Lord be blest.
He bears our burdens; God is our saviour.
This God of ours is a God who saves.
The Lord our Lord provides an escape from death. R/.
ALLELUIA John 14:16
Alleluia. I will pray the Father, and he will give you another Counsellor, to be with you for ever. Alleluia.
-GOSPEL-
“Father, glorify your Son.”
A reading from the holy Gospel according to John (John 17:1-11a)
At that time: Jesus lifted up his eyes to heaven and said, “Father, the hour has come; glorify your Son that the Son may glorify you, since you have given him power over all flesh, to give eternal life to all whom you have given him. And this is eternal life, that they know you the only true God, and Jesus Christ whom you have sent. I glorified you on earth, having accomplished the work which you gave me to do; and now, Father, glorify me in your own presence with the glory which I had with you before the world was made. “I have manifested your name to the men whom you gave me out of the world; yours they were, and you gave them to me, and they have kept your word. Now they know that everything that you have given me is from you; for I have given them the words which you gave me, and they have received them and know in truth that I came from you; and they have believed that you did send me. I am praying for them; I am not praying for the world but for those whom you have given me, for they are yours; all mine are yours, and yours are mine, and I am glorified in them. And now I am no more in the world, but they are in the world, and I am coming to you.”
The Gospel of the Lord.
TODAY’S REFLECTION
In his farewell discourse, Jesus acknowledges that he has accomplished the work given to him by the Father. He now waits for the manifestation of the Father’s glory. Paul also acknowledges in his last testament that he has carried out the whole of God’s purpose entrusted to him, in the midst of difficulties and trials, without faltering. Discover God’s purpose you are called to accomplish on earth. When you finish your work, you receive the crown of glory.
PERSONAL DEVOTIONAL: Day 23 May Devotion
Any attempt to refuse to do the good you are supposed to do at the time you are supposed to do it could easily lead to not being able to achieve what you have set out to achieve in life.
Our Mother Mary was ever ready to do what is right when it is supposed to be done and that was counted for her as righteousness. When she was told that her kinswoman Elizabeth was about to have a child, she set out immediately to go and help her, that is, to do good to her. We must learn from her to be quick to do good always and avoid evil.
Let us Pray,
Heavenly Father, help me to be quick always to do good when good should be done and may I not procrastinate and leave the things I am supposed to do undone. Amen. And May the Almighty God bless you: the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit. Amen.
9-DAYS NOVENA WITH FASTING AND PRAYERS TO THE HOLY SPIRIT
IN PREPARATION FOR PENTECOST
DAY 5: THE MANIFESTATION OF THE HOLY SPIRIT
INTRODUCTION - We find in the Old Testament, the promise of a Saviour made by God was repeated by the Prophets, but repeatedly the people fell away. Their leaders depended not on the Law given them by God but on making alliances with foreign powers and the people followed the example of unbelieving people around them in adoring false gods. He sent His Prophets to speak in His name. The many appearances of God to these men were reminders of His presence and of His love for His people. Moses keeps reminding the people of this through the verses in Deuteronomy 7: 7-8. Today, through our faith we know that God has already sent us the promised Saviour - but still we are tempted in the same way. Our inclination is to run after materialism and individualism of the society in which we live, to put our hope of a good life in wealth and self-indulgence and greed for power. Selfishness is the cause of constant tensions in our families, among our neighbours, the cause of bloodshed between nations and communities. The remedy lies in our turning to God. Let us.
PRAYER POINT:
Ask God’s mercy for the times you used spiritual gifts for selfish gains.
Surrenders your life anew to the Holy Spirit
Invocation of the Holy Spirit
Come, O Holy Spirit, fill the hearts of the faithful and enkindle in them the fire of your love.
Let Us pray:
O God, who taught the hearts of the faithful by the light of the Holy Spirit, grant that by the gift of the same Spirit we may be always truly wise and ever rejoice in his consolation, Through Christ Our Lord.
R/. Amen
Our Father who art in heaven, hallowed be Thy Name. Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread, and forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us, and lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. Amen.
Hail Mary, full of grace, the Lord is with thee: blessed art thou amongst women, and blessed is the fruit of thy womb, Jesus. Holy Mary, Mother of God, pray for us sinners, now, and at the hour of our death. Amen.
Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit. As it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, world without end. Amen. (7x)
O LORD JESUS CHRIST, Who before ascending into Heaven didst promise to send the Holy Ghost to finish Thy work in the souls of Thine Apostles and Disciples, deign to grant the same Holy Spirit to me, that He may perfect in my soul the work of Thy grace and Thy love. Grant me the Spirit of Wisdom, that I may despise the perishable things of this world and aspire only after the things that are eternal; the Spirit of Understanding, to enlighten my mind with the light of Thy Divine truth; the Spirit of Counsel, that I may ever choose the surest way of pleasing God and gaining Heaven; the Spirit of Fortitude, that I may bear my cross with Thee and that I may overcome with courage all the obstacles that oppose my salvation; the Spirit of Knowledge, that I may know God and know myself and grow perfect in the science of the Saints; the Spirit of Piety, that I may find the service of God sweet and amiable; the Spirit of Fear, that I may be filled with a loving reverence towards God and may dread in any way to displease Him. Mark me, Dear Lord, with the sign of Thy true disciples, and animate me in all things with Thy Spirit. Amen.
Breathe into me Holy Spirit that my thoughts may all be holy.
Move in me, Holy Spirit that my work too, may be holy.
Attract my heart Holy Spirit that I may love only what is holy.
Strengthen me Holy Spirit that I may defend all that is holy.
Protect me, Holy Spirit that I may always be holy.
LET US PRAY:
Father, Son and Holy Spirit, I know that my body is Your Temple. I believe and trust that you are the source of life, Almighty God, our Creator. My whole body is filled with your life and love. Lord Jesus, touch me with Your Precious Blood and wash away all my sins.
I ask your forgiveness for every sin of mine. Heal me of all the hurts, anger, guilt feelings and all painful memories that linger in my deepest being. I have sinned, Lord, against you and against my neighbour. Jesus, you are present in the Eucharist. Lord, do come into my heart. While you are in my heart, I have nothing to fear, for you are the Son of God, and in my heart you are near.
In you is life, and in your life, Lord Jesus, I find life. You touched the bleeding woman and healed her. Have mercy on me, Lord. It is You Who guide me with your strength and make me righteous in your presence. Lord, God, You are almighty. You are merciful. You have touched me and healed me of all my ailments of soul, mind and body. I thank you specially for bringing me closer to you, for loving and protecting me and for healing me completely. With deep faith in my heart, I adore You my loving Jesus Who with the Father and the Holy Spirit are God for ever and ever. Amen.
Wednesday May 24, 2023
Weekday of Easter (7)
Office: Psalter Week 3
Mass of the day.
Preface of Easter or Ascension
Vestment: White
Today’s Rosary: Glorious Mystery
9 Day Novena with fasting and prayers to the Holy Spirit in Preparation for Pentecost
DAY 6: EXPECTATION OF THE MESSIAH AND HIS SPIRIT
ENTRANCE ANTIPHON Ps 47:2
All peoples, clap your hands. Cry to God with shouts of joy, alleluia.
COLLECT
Grant graciously to your Church, O merciful God, that, gathered by the Holy Spirit, she may be devoted to you with all her heart and united in purity of intent. Through our Lord...
-FIRST READING-
I commend you to God, who is able to build you up and to give you the inheritance.
A reading from the Acts of the Apostles (Acts 20:28-38)
In those days: Paul said to the elders of the Church of Ephesus, “Take heed to yourselves and to all the flock, in which the Holy Spirit has made you guardians, to feed the Church of the Lord which he obtained with his own blood. I know that after my departure fierce wolves will come in among you, not sparing the flock; and from among your own selves will arise men speaking perverse things, to draw away the disciples after them. Therefore be alert, remembering that for three years I did not cease night or day to admonish every one with tears. And now I commend you to God and to the word of his grace, which is able to build you up and to give you the inheritance among all those who are sanctified. I coveted no one’s silver or gold or apparel. You yourselves know that these hands ministered to my necessities, and to those who were with me. In all things I have shown you that by so toiling one must help the weak, remembering the words of the Lord Jesus, how he said, ‘It is more blessed to give than to receive.”’ And when he had spoken thus, he knelt down and prayed with them all. And they all wept and embraced Paul and kissed him, sorrowing most of all because of the word he had spoken, that they should see his face no more. And they brought him to the ship.
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Psalm68:33-35a.35b and 36b (R. cf. 33a)
R/. You kingdoms of the earth, sing to God.
Or: Alleluia.
Summon forth your might, O God;
your might, O God, which you have shown for us.
From your temple high in Jerusalem,
kings will come to you bringing their tribute. R/.
You kingdoms of the earth,
sing to God, praise the Lord
who rides on the heavens,
the ancient heavens.
Behold, he thunders his voice, his mighty voice.
Come, acknowledge the power of God. R/.
R/. You kingdoms of the earth, sing to God.
Or: Alleluia.
His glory is on Israel;
his might is in the skies.
Blest be God! R/.
ALLELUIA John 17: 17b.a
Alleluia. Your word, O Lord, is truth; sanctify us in the truth. Alleluia.
-GOSPEL-
May they be one, as we are one!
A reading from the holy Gospel according to John (John 17: 11b -19)
At that time: [Jesus lifted up his eyes to heaven and prayed, saying,] “Holy Father, keep them in your name, which you have given me, that they may be one, even as we are one. While I was with them, I kept them in your name, which you have given me; I have guarded them, and none of them is lost but the son of perdition, that the Scripture might be fulfilled. But now I am coming to you; and these things I speak in the world, that they may have my joy fulfilled in themselves. I have given them your word; and the world has hated them because they are not of the world, even as I am not of the world. I do not pray that you should take them out of the world, but that you should keep them from the evil one. They are not of the world, even as I am not of the world. Sanctify them in the truth; your word is truth. As you sent me into the world, so I have sent them into the world. And for their sake I consecrate myself, that they also may be consecrated in truth.”
The Gospel of the Lord.
TODAY’S REFLECTION
Are there godly visions, purposes, missions, and assignments you have received? Prepare to pass it on. It is an obligation for us to make our God-given vision to endure. Jesus knew when it was time to go. He passed on his vision to his disciples and blessed them. Every believer is a leader and every leader has an obligation to pass on the gospel legacy to others. Teach someone what you are doing. Let someone receive your blessing.
PERSONAL DEVOTIONAL: Day 24 of May Devotion
God is faithful to His words and promises. He does not fail and when we enter into any pact with Him, we should try to remain faithful also.
Our Mother Mary said yes to Him and her yes was yes until the end of her life. She stayed true to her commitment and she never compromised. We must learn from her to say 'Yes' to God whenever He wants to make use of us in this life. This is the surest way to show God that we love Him, that is, when we stay true and faithful to our commitment like our Mother Mary did.
Meditation: James 5:1-6
Prayer:
Lord Jesus Christ, give me the grace to say Yes to you always so that you can make use of me as a wonderful instrument of peace, love and unity in this life. Amen. *And May the Almighty God bless you: the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit. Amen.
9-DAYS NOVENA WITH FASTING AND PRAYERS TO THE HOLY SPIRIT
IN PREPARATION FOR PENTECOST
DAY 6: EXPECTATION OF THE MESSIAH AND HIS SPIRIT
INTRODUCTION - In the Old Testament we find the people waiting in expectation of the promised Messiah but ignoring the Word of God. This led them to frustration, disappointment and exile. A few like Simeon and Anna wait in hope for the "consolation of Israel" (Lk2:25) and "the redemption of Jerusalem" (Lk 2: 38). During Jesus' public life even His own disciples were looking forward to a political figure who would bring the kind of freedom and fulfillment they longed for. In this age of technology and material progress, what are our expectations? In what do we place our hope? Our experience tells us that violence and injustice still flourish. In whom do we trust to rid us of all these troubles? They cannot lead us to fulfillment. Do we not have to ask ourselves whether there is any difference between us and those who do not believe? Today we begin by asking pardon for our lack of faith and trust in God and His Word.
PRAYER POINT:
- Ask for the grace to nurture your spiritual gifts
- Pray against spiritual Luke warmness, unbelief, doubt, unforgiveness, intimidation and attacks of the enemy that will hinder us from worshiping God the way he demands of us.
- Pray for spiritual revival and divine harvest in the area of evangelization.
Invocation of the Holy Spirit
Come, O Holy Spirit, fill the hearts of the faithful and enkindle in them the fire of your love.
Let Us pray:
O God, who taught the hearts of the faithful by the light of the Holy Spirit, grant that by the gift of the same Spirit we may be always truly wise and ever rejoice in his consolation, Through Christ Our Lord.
R/. Amen
Our Father who art in heaven, hallowed be Thy Name. Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread, and forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us, and lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. Amen.
Hail Mary, full of grace, the Lord is with thee: blessed art thou amongst women, and blessed is the fruit of thy womb, Jesus. Holy Mary, Mother of God, pray for us sinners, now, and at the hour of our death. Amen.
Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit. As it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, world without end. Amen. (7x)
O LORD JESUS CHRIST, Who before ascending into Heaven didst promise to send the Holy Ghost to finish Thy work in the souls of Thine Apostles and Disciples, deign to grant the same Holy Spirit to me, that He may perfect in my soul the work of Thy grace and Thy love. Grant me the Spirit of Wisdom, that I may despise the perishable things of this world and aspire only after the things that are eternal; the Spirit of Understanding, to enlighten my mind with the light of Thy Divine truth; the Spirit of Counsel, that I may ever choose the surest way of pleasing God and gaining Heaven; the Spirit of Fortitude, that I may bear my cross with Thee and that I may overcome with courage all the obstacles that oppose my salvation; the Spirit of Knowledge, that I may know God and know myself and grow perfect in the science of the Saints; the Spirit of Piety, that I may find the service of God sweet and amiable; the Spirit of Fear, that I may be filled with a loving reverence towards God and may dread in any way to displease Him. Mark me, Dear Lord, with the sign of Thy true disciples, and animate me in all things with Thy Spirit. Amen.
Breathe into me Holy Spirit that my thoughts may all be holy.
Move in me, Holy Spirit that my work too, may be holy.
Attract my heart Holy Spirit that I may love only what is holy.
Strengthen me Holy Spirit that I may defend all that is holy.
Protect me, Holy Spirit that I may always be holy.
LET US PRAY:
Father, Son and Holy Spirit, I know that my body is Your Temple. I believe and trust that you are the source of life, Almighty God, our Creator. My whole body is filled with your life and love. Lord Jesus, touch me with Your Precious Blood and wash away all my sins.
I ask your forgiveness for every sin of mine. Heal me of all the hurts, anger, guilt feelings and all painful memories that linger in my deepest being. I have sinned, Lord, against you and against my neighbour. Jesus, you are present in the Eucharist. Lord, do come into my heart. While you are in my heart, I have nothing to fear, for you are the Son of God, and in my heart you are near.
In you is life, and in your life, Lord Jesus, I find life. You touched the bleeding woman and healed her. Have mercy on me, Lord. It is You Who guide me with your strength and make me righteous in your presence. Lord, God, You are almighty. You are merciful. You have touched me and healed me of all my ailments of soul, mind and body. I thank you specially for bringing me closer to you, for loving and protecting me and for healing me completely. With deep faith in my heart, I adore You my loving Jesus Who with the Father and the Holy Spirit are God for ever and ever. Amen.
Thursday May 25, 2023
ST VENERABLE BEDE, P.D. ST GEOGORY VII, PP. & ST MARY MAGDALENE DE’ PAZZI, V. (OPT MEM)
Office: Psalter Week 3
Mass of the day or Memorial, Preface of Easter or Ascension
Vestment: White
Today’s Rosary: The Luminous Mysteries
9-DAYS NOVENA WITH FASTING AND PRAYERS TO THE HOLY SPIRIT IN PREPARATION FOR PENTECOST
DAY 7: CHRIST JESUS
ENTRANCE ANTIPHON Hub 4: 16
With boldness let us approach the throne of grace, that we may receive mercy and find grace as a timely help, alleluia.
COLLECT
May your Spirit, O Lord, we pray, imbue us powerfully with spiritual gifts, that he may give us a mind pleasing to you, and graciously conform us to your will. Through our Lord...
-FIRST READING-
“You must bear witness also at Rome.”
A reading from the Acts of the Apostles (Acts 22:30; 23:6 - 11)
In those days: Desiring to know the real reason why the Jews accused Paul, the tribune unbound him, and commanded the chief priests and all the council to meet, and he brought Paul down and set him before them. But when Paul perceived that one part were Sadducees and the other Pharisees, he cried out in the council, “Brethren, I am a Pharisee, a son of Pharisees; with respect to the hope and resurrection of the dead I am on trial.” And when he had said this, a dissension arose between the Pharisees and the Sadducees; and the assembly was divided. For the Sadducees say that there is no resurrection, nor spirit; but the Pharisees acknowledge them all. Then a great clamour arose; and some of the scribes of the Pharisees’ party stood up and contended, “we find nothing wrong in this man. What if a spirit or an angel spoke to him?” And when the dissension became violent, the tribune, afraid that Paul would be torn in pieces by them, commanded the soldiers to go down and take him by force from among them and bring him into the barracks. The following night the Lord stood by him said, “Take courage, for as you have testified about me at Jerusalem, so you must bear witness also at Rose.”
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Psalm 16:1-2a and 5.7-8.9-10.11 (R.1)
R/. Preserve me, O God, for in you I take refuge.
Or. Alleluia
Preserve me, O God, for in you I take refuge
I say to the Lord, “You are my Lord.”
O Lord, it is you who are my portion and cup;
You yourself who secure my lot. R/.
I will bless the Lord who gives me counsel,
Who even at night directs my heart.
I keep the Lord before me always;
With him at my right hand, I shall not be moved. R/.
R/. Preserve me, O God, for in you I take refuge.
Or. Alleluia
And so, my heart rejoices, my soul is glad;
Even my flesh shall rest in hope.
For you will not abandon my soul to hell,
Nor let your holy one see corruption. R/.
You will show me the path of life,
The fullness of joy in your presence,
At your right hand, bliss forever. R/.
ALLELUIA
Alleluia. May they all be one; even as you, Father, are in me, and I in you, so that the world may believe that you have sent me, says the Lord. Alleluia
-GOSPEL-
May they become perfectly one.
A reading from the holy Gospel according to John (John 17:20-26)
At that time: [Jesus lifted up his eyes to heaven and prayed, saying,] “I do not pray for these only, but also for those who believe in me through their word, that they may all be one; even as you, Father, are in me, and I in you, that they also may be in us, so that the world may believe that you have sent me. The glory which you have given me I have given to them, that they may be one even as we are one, I in them and you in me, that they may become perfectly one, so that the world may know that you have sent me and have loved them even as you have loved me. Father, I desire that they also, whom you have given me, may be with me where I am, to behold my glory which you have given me in your love for me before the foundation of the world. O righteous Father, the world has not known you, but I have known you; and these know that you have sent me. I made known to them your name, and I will make it known, that the love with which you have loved me may be in them, and I in them.”
The Gospel of the Lord.
TODAY’S REFLECTION
Unity is divine as it marks the presence of the Lord. The Jews who gathered against Paul were divided into two parties, the Pharisees and the Sadducees. Division weakened their plan. Jesus prayed that the disciples may be one because he knows the danger of disunity. We must avoid those things that contribute to disunity among Christians such as calumny, dissension, insincerity, gossip, selfishness, pride, arrogance, self-centeredness, selfish ambition, discrimination, tribalism, nepotism, and favourism.
PERSONAL DEVOTIONAL: Day 25 May Devotion
Our Mother Mary was chosen by God for the purpose of being the Mother of His only begotten Son and she accepted this role and bore a lasting fruit for God.
Our responsibility in this life is to do God's will and to bear fruits of love for Him. God will make demands of us from time to time in this life and when we submit our will and accept His own will we will be able to find the joy and inner peace that our Mother Mary found when she let God's will be done in her life. Our Mother Mary is a sure help for you when you desire to do God's will.
Meditation: John 15:18-21
Prayer:
Lord Jesus Christ, thank you for choosing me to be your child, help me to say yes to you always as your Mother did and may the will of God for my life come to perfect fulfilment. Through the intercession of our blessed Mother Mary, May Almighty God bless you: the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit. Amen.
TODAY'S SAINTS
St. Bede De Venerable, P.D.: An outstanding theologian, he combined contemplation and learning in his life as a Benedictine. Born in England in 672, he spent the whole of his in the monastery, teaching, writing and praying. From the historical works that he wrote, Bede can be considered the father of English history. He died in the year 735, the only Englishman to have been named Doctor of the Church.
St. Geogory VII, Pp.: Gregory was one of the most important popes of the middle ages when the political power was trying to rule and dominate the Church. He was a Benedictine monk and, when he was chosen to be pope at the age of 53 in 1073, he struggled to reform the Church to eliminate various forms of immorality among the clergy. His stand on a number of issues brought him into conflict with the emperor Henry IV who forced Gregory into exile at Salerno where he died in 1085.
Mary Magdalene De’Pazzi, V.: Mary Magdalene De Pazzi lived in the difficult times of the Reformation. Because of her profound spirituality, she was able to help the leaders of the Church to implement important reforms. Born in Florence in 1566, she joined the Carmelite nuns at the age of 16 and, leaving her baptismal name ‘Catherine,’ she took that of Mary Magdalene. She was given special graces of mystical prayer and had ecstasies and revelations. She died in 1607.
9-DAYS NOVENA WITH FASTING AND PRAYERS TO THE HOLY SPIRIT IN PREPARATION FOR PENTECOST
DAY 7: CHRIST JESUS
INTRODUCTION - Christ is the one anointed by the Spirit. Jesus said, "My food is to do the will of the Father". That is the sign of the Anointed One, the Messiah. It was his life's work, which He brought to perfection on the Cross, when He said, "Father into Your hands I commend my spirit". At our Baptism we have been given a share in the same anointing of the Spirit, yet how often we fail to do the will of God! By our sins we go against the anointing of the Spirit given to us. Hence we begin today by asking pardon for our failures in obedience and in love from God and from our neighbour.
PRAYER POINT
Dear Lord, as I look at my life, I realize I am not as on fire for you as I should be. Help me to see the true state of my heart and attitude, so that I will be moved to action. Show me the need to fan into flame those things you have given me, so that I can be of greater benefit to my fellow human being. Forgive me for allowing the fire of the Holy Spirit to burn low in my life. From this prayer on, I am going to stir myself, to stir up the gift of God to fan into flame the things you have given me. I want to be a greater blessing in your Kingdom! Thank you, Lord, for helping me to be just that. In Jesus’ name I pray. Amen.
INVOCATION OF THE HOLY SPIRIT
Come, O Holy Spirit, fill the hearts of the faithful and enkindle in them the fire of your love.
Let Us pray:
O God, who taught the hearts of the faithful by the light of the Holy Spirit, grant that by the gift of the same Spirit we may be always truly wise and ever rejoice in his consolation, Through Christ Our Lord.
R/. Amen
Our Father who art in heaven, hallowed be Thy Name. Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread, and forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us, and lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. Amen.
Hail Mary, full of grace, the Lord is with thee: blessed art thou amongst women, and blessed is the fruit of thy womb, Jesus. Holy Mary, Mother of God, pray for us sinners, now, and at the hour of our death. Amen.
Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit. As it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, world without end. Amen. (7x)
O LORD JESUS CHRIST, Who before ascending into Heaven didst promise to send the Holy Ghost to finish Thy work in the souls of thine Apostles and Disciples, deign to grant the same Holy Spirit to me, that He may perfect in my soul the work of Thy grace and Thy love. Grant me the Spirit of Wisdom, that I may despise the perishable things of this world and aspire only after the things that are eternal; the Spirit of Understanding, to enlighten my mind with the light of Thy Divine truth; the Spirit of Counsel, that I may ever choose the surest way of pleasing God and gaining Heaven; the Spirit of Fortitude, that I may bear my cross with Thee and that I may overcome with courage all the obstacles that oppose my salvation; the Spirit of Knowledge, that I may know God and know myself and grow perfect in the science of the Saints; the Spirit of Piety, that I may find the service of God sweet and amiable; the Spirit of Fear, that I may be filled with a loving reverence towards God and may dread in any way to displease Him. Mark me, Dear Lord, with the sign of Thy true disciples, and animate me in all things with Thy Spirit. Amen.
Breathe into me Holy Spirit that my thoughts may all be holy.
Move in me, Holy Spirit that my work too, may be holy.
Attract my heart Holy Spirit that I may love only what is holy.
Strengthen me Holy Spirit that I may defend all that is holy.
Protect me, Holy Spirit that I may always be holy.
LET US PRAY:
Father, Son and Holy Spirit, I know that my body is Your Temple. I believe and trust that you are the source of life, Almighty God, our Creator. My whole body is filled with your life and love. Lord Jesus, touch me with Your Precious Blood and wash away all my sins.
I ask your forgiveness for every sin of mine. Heal me of all the hurts, anger, guilt feelings and all painful memories that linger in my deepest being. I have sinned, Lord, against you and against my neighbour. Jesus, you are present in the Eucharist. Lord, do come into my heart. While you are in my heart, I have nothing to fear, for you are the Son of God, and in my heart you are near.
In you is life, and in your life, Lord Jesus, I find life. You touched the bleeding woman and healed her. Have mercy on me, Lord. It is You Who guide me with your strength and make me righteous in your presence. Lord, God, You are almighty. You are merciful. You have touched me and healed me of all my ailments of soul, mind and body. I thank you specially for bringing me closer to you, for loving and protecting me and for healing me completely. With deep faith in my heart, I adore You my loving Jesus Who with the Father and the Holy Spirit are God for ever and ever. Amen.
Friday May 26, 2023
ST PHILIP NERI. P. MEMORIAL
Office: Memorial, Psalter Week
Vestment: White
Today’s Rosary: The Sorrowful Mysteries
9-DAYS NOVENA WITH FASTING AND PRAYERS TO THE HOLY SPIRIT
IN PREPARATION FOR PENTECOST
DAY 8: THE HOLY SPIRIT AND THE CHURCH
ENTRANCE ANTIPHON Rv 1:5-6
Christ loved us and washed us of our sins in his blood, and made us a kingdom and priests for his God and Father, alleluia.
COLLECT
O God, who by the glorification of your Christ and the light of the Holy Spirit have unlocked for us the gates of eternity, grant, we pray, that, partaking of so great a gift, our devotion may grow deeper and our faith be strengthened. Through our Lord...
-FIRST READING-
“Jesus, who was dead, but whom Paul asserted to be alive.”
A reading from the Acts of the Apostles (Acts 25: 13b-21)
In those days: Agrippa the king and Bernice arrived at Caesarea to welcome Festus. And as they stayed there many days, Festus laid Paul’s case before the king, saying, “There is a man left prisoner by Felix; and when I was at Jerusalem, the chief priests and the elders of the Jews gave information about him, asking for sentence against him. I answered them that it was not the custom of the Romans to give up any one before the accused met the accusers face to face, and had opportunity to make his defence concerning the charge laid against him. When therefore they came together here, I made no delay, but on the next day took my seat on the tribunal and ordered the man brought in. When the accusers stood up, they brought no charge in his case of such evils as I supposed; but they had certain points of dispute with him about their own superstition and about one Jesus, who was dead, but whom Paul asserted to be alive. Being at a loss how to investigate these questions, I asked whether he wished to go to Jerusalem and be tried there regarding them. But when Paul had appealed to be kept in custody for the decision of the emperor, I commanded him to be held until I could send him to Caesar.”
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Psalm 103:1-2.11-12.19-20ab (R. 19a)
R/. The Lord has fixed his throne in heaven.
Or: Alleluia.
Bless the Lord, O my soul,
and all within me, his holy name.
Bless the Lord, O my soul,
and never forget all his benefits. R/.
For as the heavens are high above the earth,
so strong his mercy for those who fear him.
As far as the east is from the west,
so far from us does he remove our transgressions. R/.
R/. The Lord has fixed his throne in heaven.
Or: Alleluia.
The Lord has fixed his throne in heaven,
and his kingdom is ruling over all.
Bless the Lord, all you his angels,
mighty in power, fulfilling his word. R/.
ALLELUIA John 14:26
Alleluia. The Holy Spirit will teach you all things and bring to your remembrance all that I have said to you. Alleluia.
-GOSPEL-
“Feed my lambs, tend my sheep.”
A reading from the holy Gospel according to John (John 21: 15-19)
When [Jesus had revealed himself to his disciples and] they had finished breakfast, he said to Simon Peter, “Simon, son of John, do you love me more than these?” He said to him, “Yes, Lord; you know that I love you.” He said to him, “Feed my lambs.” A second time he said to him, “Simon, son of John, do you love me?” He said to him, “Yes, Lord; you know that I love you.” He said to him, “Tend my sheep.” He said to him the third time, “Simon, son of John, do you love me?” Peter was grieved because he said to him the third time, “Do you love me?” And he said to him, “Lord, you know everything; you know that I love you.” Jesus said to him, “Feed my sheep. Truly, truly, I say to you, when you were young, you fastened your own belt and walked where you would; but when you are old, you will stretch out your hands, and another will fasten your belt for you and carry you where you do not wish to go.” (This he said to show by what death he was to glorify God.) And after this he said to him, “Follow me.”
The Gospel of the Lord.
TODAY’S REFLECTION
Love is something to give and receive. It is good to love and allow yourself to be loved. One should dispose oneself to receive love. To love without having a disposition to receive love is selfishness. One can love without being lustful and receive love without defiling the body. Some people are so closed-up that they do not allow anyone to show them love. By this very gesture of Peter’s reassurance of his love to Jesus today, Jesus also shows through this encounter with Peter that one who loves should allow himself or herself to be loved. Do not resist love. To love is not enough, we should also allow ourselves to be loved.
PERSONAL DEVOTIONAL: DAY 26 MAY DEVOTION
Jesus was a child at one point in his life on earth and our Blessed Mother Mary took care of Him. Jesus loves little children and we should do the same if we are to be His true disciples.
Every child is a gift from God and should be treated with dignity and respect. Our Mother Mary respected Jesus and took good care of Him as a child. We should learn from her as parents and guardians to take care of the children under our care and always bring them closer to Jesus so that they will be blessed. And in approaching Jesus, we must always come before Him like a little child.
Meditation: Mark 10:13-16
Prayer:
Lord Jesus Christ, help me to always come before you like a child and may I be a means through which the little children of our world will find you and be blessed. Amen. And May the Almighty God bless you: the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit. Amen.
9-DAYS NOVENA WITH FASTING AND PRAYERS TO THE HOLY SPIRIT
IN PREPARATION FOR PENTECOST
DAY 8: THE HOLY SPIRIT AND THE CHURCH
INTRODUCTION - During our Novena we have recalled the joint mission of Jesus and the Holy Spirit; we have seen how Jesus fulfilled His promise of sending the Spirit on His Church. As members of the Church we have been forgiven through Baptism and have been given a share in the new life of the Risen Lord. It is therefore in a spirit of humble thanks that we come to praise the Lord today, conscious of the deep debt we owe Him for His gift of Himself and His Holy Spirit to us.
Prayer Points
- Ask the Holy Spirit to have His way in your life, and fill you with His fresh anointing.
- Ask the Holy Spirit for spiritual gift and growth individually and as a church, in Jesus name.
Invocation of the Holy Spirit
Come, O Holy Spirit, fill the hearts of the faithful and enkindle in them the fire of your love.
Let Us pray:
O God, who taught the hearts of the faithful by the light of the Holy Spirit, grant that by the gift of the same Spirit we may be always truly wise and ever rejoice in his consolation, Through Christ Our Lord.
R/. Amen
Our Father who art in heaven, hallowed be Thy Name. Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread, and forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us, and lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. Amen.
Hail Mary, full of grace, the Lord is with thee: blessed art thou amongst women, and blessed is the fruit of thy womb, Jesus. Holy Mary, Mother of God, pray for us sinners, now, and at the hour of our death. Amen.
Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit. As it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, world without end. Amen. (7x)
O LORD JESUS CHRIST, Who before ascending into Heaven didst promise to send the Holy Ghost to finish Thy work in the souls of thy Apostles and Disciples, deign to grant the same Holy Spirit to me, that He may perfect in my soul the work of Thy grace and Thy love. Grant me the Spirit of Wisdom, that I may despise the perishable things of this world and aspire only after the things that are eternal; the Spirit of Understanding, to enlighten my mind with the light of Thy Divine truth; the Spirit of Counsel, that I may ever choose the surest way of pleasing God and gaining Heaven; the Spirit of Fortitude, that I may bear my cross with Thee and that I may overcome with courage all the obstacles that oppose my salvation; the Spirit of Knowledge, that I may know God and know myself and grow perfect in the science of the Saints; the Spirit of Piety, that I may find the service of God sweet and amiable; the Spirit of Fear, that I may be filled with a loving reverence towards God and may dread in any way to displease Him. Mark me, Dear Lord, with the sign of Thy true disciples, and animate me in all things with Thy Spirit. Amen.
Breathe into me Holy Spirit that my thoughts may all be holy.
Move in me, Holy Spirit that my work too, may be holy.
Attract my heart Holy Spirit that I may love only what is holy.
Strengthen me Holy Spirit that I may defend all that is holy.
Protect me, Holy Spirit that I may always be holy.
LET US PRAY:
Father, Son and Holy Spirit, I know that my body is Your Temple. I believe and trust that you are the source of life, Almighty God, our Creator. My whole body is filled with your life and love. Lord Jesus, touch me with Your Precious Blood and wash away all my sins.
I ask your forgiveness for every sin of mine. Heal me of all the hurts, anger, guilt feelings and all painful memories that linger in my deepest being. I have sinned, Lord, against you and against my neighbour. Jesus, you are present in the Eucharist. Lord, do come into my heart. While you are in my heart, I have nothing to fear, for you are the Son of God, and in my heart you are near.
In you is life, and in your life, Lord Jesus, I find life. You touched the bleeding woman and healed her. Have mercy on me, Lord. It is You Who guide me with your strength and make me righteous in your presence. Lord, God, You are almighty. You are merciful. You have touched me and healed me of all my ailments of soul, mind and body. I thank you specially for bringing me closer to you, for loving and protecting me and for healing me completely. With deep faith in my heart, I adore You my loving Jesus Who with the Father and the Holy Spirit are God for ever and ever. Amen.
Saturday May 27, 2023
ST AUGUSINE OF CANTERURY, BP, (Opt. Mem.)
B.V.M ON SATURDAY
Office: Psalter Week 3
Mass of the day. Preface of Easter or Ascension
Vestment: White
Today’s Rosary: The Joyful Mysteries
9-DAYS NOVENA WITH FASTING AND PRAYERS TO THE HOLY SPIRIT IN PREPARATION FOR PENTECOST
DAY 9: MARY THE MASTER WORK OF THE HOLY SPIRIT
Vigil Mass Reading for Pentecost Below
ENTRANCE ANTIPHON Acts 1:14
The disciples were persevering with one mind in prayer with the women, and Mary the Mother of Jesus, and his brothers, alleluia.
COLLECT
Grant, we pray, almighty God, that we who have celebrated the paschal festivities may by your gift hold fast to them in the way that we live our lives. Through our Lord...
-FIRST READING-
He lived in Rome, preaching the kingdom of God.
A reading from the Acts of the Apostles (Acts 28:16-20.30-31)
When we came into Rome, Paul was allowed to stay by himself, with the soldier that guarded him. After three days he called together the local leaders of the Jews; and when they had gathered, he said to them, “Brethren, though I had done nothing against the people or the customs of our fathers, yet I was delivered prisoner from Jerusalem into the hands of the Romans. When they had examined me, they wished to set me at liberty, because there was no reason for the death penalty in my case. But when the Jews objected, I was compelled to appeal to Caesar — though I had no charge to bring against my nation. For this reason therefore I have asked to see you and speak with you, since it is because of the hope of Israel that I am bound with this chain.” And he lived there two whole years at his own expense, and welcomed all who came to him, preaching the kingdom of God and teaching about the Lord Jesus Christ quite openly and unhindered.
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Psalms 11:4.5 and 7 (R. 7b)
R/. The upright shall behold your face, O Lord.
or: Alleluia.
The Lord is in his holy temple;
the throne of the Lord is in heaven.
His eyes behold the world;
his gaze probes the children of men. R/.
R/. The upright shall behold your face, O Lord.
or: Alleluia.
The Lord inspects the just and the wicked;
the lover of violence he hates.
For the Lord is just and loves deeds of justice;
the upright shall behold his face. R/.
ALLELUIA John 16:7.13
Alleluia. I will send the Spirit of truth to you, says the Lord; he will guide you into all the truth. Alleluia.
-GOSPEL-
“This is the disciple who has written these things, and his testimony is true.”
A reading from the holy Gospel according to John (John 21:20-25)
At that time: Peter turned and saw following them the disciple whom Jesus loved, who had lain close to his breast at the supper and had said, “Lord, who is it that is going to betray you?” When Peter saw him, he said to Jesus, “Lord, what about this man?” Jesus said to him, “If it is my will that he remain until I come, what is that to you? Follow me!” The saying spread abroad among the brethren that this disciple was not to die; yet Jesus did not say to him that he was not to die, but, “If it is my will that he remain until I come, what is that to you?” This is the disciple who is bearing witness to these things, and who has written these things; and we know that his testimony is true. But there are also many other things which Jesus did; were every one of them to be written, I suppose that the world itself could not contain the books that would be written.
The Gospel of the Lord.
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
VIGIL OF PENTECOST
Mass of Vigil Prop. Gloria. Creed.
Preface (Pentecost) proper.
In Eucharist Prayer I proper insert
Vestment: Red
Vespers I of the Pentecost Sunday
This Mass is used on the Saturday evening, either before or after First Vespers (Evening Prayer I) of Pentecost Sunday. The fifty days of the sacred season of Easter concludes with Pentecost Sunday, when the Church recalls the gift of the Holy Spirit to the Apostles, the beginnings of the Church, and the start of her mission to all tongues and peoples and nations. It is fitting that the Vigil Mass be celebrated in a more ample form, using the readings and prayers to be found in the liturgical books. At mass, however, does not have a baptismal character, as does the Easter Vigil.
ENTRANCE ANTIPHON Rom 5:5; cf. 5: 11
The love of God has been poured into our hearts through the Spirit of God dwelling within us, alleluia.
COLLECT
Almighty ever-living God, who willed the paschal mystery to be encompassed as a sign in fifty days, grant that from out of the scattered nations the confusion of many tongues may be gathered by heavenly grace into one great confession of your name. Through our Lord. .
Grant, we pray, almighty God, that the splendour of your glory may shine forth upon us and that, by the bright rays of the Holy Spirit, the light of your light may confirm the hearts of those born again by your grace. Through our Lord
-FIRST READING-
“Its name was called Babel, because there the Lord confused the language of all the earth.”
A reading from the Book of Genesis (Genesis 11:1-9)
The whole earth had one language and few words. And as men migrated from the east, they found a plain in the land of Shinar and settled there. And they said to one another, “Come, let us make bricks, and bum them thoroughly.” And they had brick for stone, and bitumen for mortar. Then they said, “Come, let us build ourselves a city, and a tower with its top in the heavens, and let us make a name for ourselves, lest we be scattered abroad upon the face of the whole earth.” And the Lord came down to see the city and the tower, which the sons of men had built. And the Lord said, “Behold, they are one people, and they have all one language; and this is only the beginning of what they will do; and nothing that they propose to do will now be impossible for them. Come, let us go down, and there confuse their language, that they may not understand one another’s speech.” So the Lord scattered them abroad from there over the face of all the earth, and they left off building the city. Therefore its name was called Babel, because there the Lord confused the language of all the earth; and from there the Lord scattered them abroad over the face of all the earth.
The word of the Lord
OR THE FOLLOWING
-FIRST READING-
The Lord came down upon Mount Sinai before all the people.
A reading from the Book of Exodus (Exodus 19:3-8a.16-20b)
In those days: Moses went up to God, and the Lord called to him out of the mountain, saying, “Thus you shall say to the house of Jacob, and tell the sons of Israel: You have seen what I did to the Egyptians, and how I bore you on eagles’ wings and brought you to myself. Now therefore, if you will obey my voice and keep my covenant, you shall be my own possession among all peoples; for all the earth is mine, and you shall be to me a kingdom of priests and a holy nation. These are the words which you shall speak to the children of Israel.” So Moses came and called the elders of the people, and set before them all these words which the Lord had commanded him. And all the people answered together and said, “All that the Lord has spoken we will do.” On the morning of the third day there was thunder and lightning, and a thick cloud upon the mountain, and a very loud trumpet blast, so that all the people who were in the camp trembled. Then Moses brought the people out of the camp to meet God; and they took their stand at the foot of the mountain. And Mount Sinai was wrapped in smoke, because the Lord descended upon it in fire; and the smoke of it went up like the smoke of a kiln, and the whole mountain quaked greatly. And as the sound of the trumpet grew louder and louder, Moses spoke, and God answered him in thunder. And the Lord came down upon Mount Sinai, to the top of the mountain; and the Lord called Moses to the top of the mountain.
The word of the Lord.
Or the following reading:
-FIRST READING-
“Dry bones, I will put my spirit within you, and you shall live.”
A reading from the Book of the Prophet Ezekiel (Ezekiel 37:1-14)
In those days: The hand of the Lord was upon me, and he brought me out by the Spirit of the Lord, and set me down in the midst of the valley; it was full of bones. And he led me round among them; and behold, there were very many upon the valley; and behold, they were very dry. And he said to me, “Son of man, can these bones live?” And I answered, “O Lord God, you know.” Again he said to me, “Prophesy to these bones, and say to them, O dry bones, hear the word of the Lord. Thus says the Lord God to these bones: Behold, I will cause the spirit to enter you, and you shall live. And I will lay sinews upon you, and will cause flesh to come upon you, and cover you with skin, and put spirit in you, and you shall live; and you shall know that I am the Lord.” So I prophesied as I was commanded; and as I prophesied, there was a noise, and behold, a rattling; and the bones came together, bone to its bone. And as I looked, there were sinews on them, and flesh had come upon them, and skin had covered them; but there was no spirit in them. Then he said to me, “Prophesy to the spirit, prophesy, son of man, and say to the spirit, Thus says the Lord God: Come from the four winds, O spirit, and breathe upon these slain, that they may live.” So I prophesied as he commanded me, and the spirit came into them, and they lived, and stood upon their feet, an exceedingly great host. Then he said to me, “Son of man, these’ bones are the whole house of Israel. Behold, they say, ‘Our bones are dried up, and our hope is lost; we are clean cut off.’ Therefore prophesy, and say to them, Thus says the Lord God: Behold, I will open your graves, and raise you from your graves, O my people; and I will bring you home into the land of Israel. And you shall know that I am the Lord, when I open your graves, and raise you from your graves, O my people. And I will put my Spirit within you, and you shall live, and I will place you in your own land; then you shall know that I, the Lord, have spoken, and I have done it, says the Lord.”
The word of the Lord.
Or the following reading:
-FIRST READING-
“Upon the menservants and maidservants I will pour out my spirit.”
A reading from the Book of the Prophet Joel (Joel 2:28-32)
The Lord said to his people: “And it shall come to pass afterwards, that I will pour out my spirit on all flesh; your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, your old men shall dream dreams, and your young men shall see visions. Even upon the menservants and maidservants in those days, I will pour out my spirit. “And I will give signs in the heavens and on the earth, blood and fire and columns of smoke. The sun shall be turned to darkness, and the moon to blood, before the great and awesome day of the Lord comes. And it shall come to pass that all who call upon the name of the Lord shall be delivered; for in Mount Zion and in Jerusalem there shall be those who escape, as the Lord has said, and among the survivors shall be those whom the Lord calls.”
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Psalm 104:1-2a.24 and 35c.27-28.29bc-30 (R. cf. 30)
R/. Lord, send forth your Spirit, and renew the face of the earth.
Or: Alleluia.
Bless the Lord, O my soul!
O Lord my God, how great you are,
clothed in majesty and honour,
wrapped in light as with a robe! R/.
How many are your works, O Lord!
In wisdom you have made them all.
The earth is full of your creatures.
Bless the Lord, O my soul. R/.
All of these look to you
To give them their food in due season.
You give it, they gather it up;
you open wide your hand, they are well filled. R/.
You take away their breath, they die,
returning to the dust from which they came.
You send forth your spirit, and they are created,
and you renew the face of the earth. R/.
-SECOND READING-
“The Spirit himself intercedes for us with sighs too deep for words.”
A reading from the Letter of Saint Paul to the Romans (Romans 8:22-27)
Brethren: We know that the whole creation has been groaning with labour pains together until now; and not only the creation, but we ourselves, who have the first fruits of the Spirit, groan inwardly as we wait for adoption as sons, the redemption of our bodies. For in this hope we were saved. Now hope that is seen is not hope. For who hopes for what he sees? But if we 'hope for what we do not see, we wait for it with patience. Likewise the Spirit helps us in our weakness; for we do not know how to pray as we ought, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us with sighs too deep for words. And he who searches the hearts of men knows what is the mind of the Spirit, because the Spirit intercedes for the saints according to the will of God.
The word of the Lord.
ALLELUIA
Alleluia. Come, O Holy Spirit, fill the hearts of your faithful; and kindle in them the fire of your love. Alleluia.
-GOSPEL-
“Out of his heart shall flow rivers of living water.”
A reading from the holy Gospel according to John (John 7:37-39)
On the last day of the feast, the great day, Jesus stood up and proclaimed, “If any one thirst, let him come to me and drink. He who believes in me, as the Scripture has said, ‘Out of his heart shall flow rivers of living water.”’ Now this he said about the Spirit, which those who believed in him were to receive; for as yet the Spirit had not been given, because Jesus was not yet glorified.
The Gospel of the Lord.
TODAY'S REFLECTION
Not all that Jesus did and said is exhaustive in the Sacred Scripture because the scripture itself attested to this. The Gospel of John tells us that there are also many other things which Jesus did that no single book can contain (John 21:25). The Sacred Scripture is the written tradition. There is also the oral tradition. The scripture itself reveals it, “so then, brethren, stand firm and hold to the traditions which you were taught by us, either by word of mouth [oral tradition] or by letter [written tradition]” (2 Thess. 2:15). Let us hold firm to the traditions we received. Let us not be deceived by those who say, “Scripture alone”.
PERSONAL DEVOTIONAL: Day 27 of May Devotion
In the Trinitarian God head we see the persons of the Father, Son and Holy Spirit united in love and working for the good of humanity and the Most Blessed Trinity continues to work for us on a daily basis.
Our Mother Mary also played her role and part as she was chosen by the Most Blessed Trinity to become the vessel through which the person of the Son will come into the world to redeem humanity. She was given a responsibility and she carried it out without compromise. We must learn from her to play our God given role in life well so that the Blessed Trinity will be glorified.
Meditation: Deuteronomy 4:32-34, 39-40
Prayer:
Heavenly Father, thank you for giving me the opportunity to play a part in this life for the good of humanity and for the glory of the Most Blessed Trinity. May I never look back in professing your name. Amen. And May the Almighty God bless you: the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit. Amen.
9-DAYS NOVENA WITH FASTING AND PRAYERS TO THE HOLY SPIRIT
IN PREPARATION FOR PENTECOST
DAY 9: MARY THE MASTER WORK OF THE HOLY SPIRIT
INTRODUCTION:
Mary, the all holy, ever-virgin Mother of God, is the masterpiece of the mission of the Son and the Holy Spirit. Because the Holy Spirit had prepared her, the Father found the dwelling-place where His Son and His Spirit could live among mankind. We begin our reflection on Mary and the Holy Spirit by recognizing our many failures to respond as she did to the Spirit's inspirations. We say to the blessed Virgin "Pray for us sinners now and at the hour of our death. Amen."
Prayer points:
- Father, grant us the grace and strength to remain abiding in you so that we can bear much fruit this year and forever, in Jesus mighty name.
- Ask the Lord to pour out His Spirit once again upon the young and the old in our families, the church and the world, to revive us again for Him, in Jesus name.
- Pray that the outpouring of the Holy Spirit in your life will destroy the structures of darkness, the dominion of sin and usher in abundance, in Christ Jesus.
At midnight spend at least 1hour in prayer that you receive the outpouring of the Holy Spirit.
Invocation of the Holy Spirit
Come, O Holy Spirit, fill the hearts of the faithful and enkindle in them the fire of your love.
Let Us pray:
O God, who taught the hearts of the faithful by the light of the Holy Spirit, grant that by the gift of the same Spirit we may be always truly wise and ever rejoice in his consolation, Through Christ Our Lord.
R/. Amen
Our Father who art in heaven, hallowed be Thy Name. Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread, and forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us, and lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. Amen.
Hail Mary, full of grace, the Lord is with thee: blessed art thou amongst women, and blessed is the fruit of thy womb, Jesus. Holy Mary, Mother of God, pray for us sinners, now, and at the hour of our death. Amen.
Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit. As it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, world without end. Amen. (7x)
O LORD JESUS CHRIST, Who before ascending into Heaven didst promise to send the Holy Ghost to finish Thy work in the souls of thy Apostles and Disciples, deign to grant the same Holy Spirit to me, that He may perfect in my soul the work of Thy grace and Thy love. Grant me the Spirit of Wisdom, that I may despise the perishable things of this world and aspire only after the things that are eternal; the Spirit of Understanding, to enlighten my mind with the light of Thy Divine truth; the Spirit of Counsel, that I may ever choose the surest way of pleasing God and gaining Heaven; the Spirit of Fortitude, that I may bear my cross with Thee and that I may overcome with courage all the obstacles that oppose my salvation; the Spirit of Knowledge, that I may know God and know myself and grow perfect in the science of the Saints; the Spirit of Piety, that I may find the service of God sweet and amiable; the Spirit of Fear, that I may be filled with a loving reverence towards God and may dread in any way to displease Him. Mark me, Dear Lord, with the sign of Thy true disciples, and animate me in all things with Thy Spirit. Amen.
Breathe into me Holy Spirit that my thoughts may all be holy.
Move in me, Holy Spirit that my work too, may be holy.
Attract my heart Holy Spirit that I may love only what is holy.
Strengthen me Holy Spirit that I may defend all that is holy.
Protect me, Holy Spirit that I may always be holy.
LET US PRAY: (To be recited together by all)
Father, Son and Holy Spirit, I know that my body is Your Temple. I believe and trust that you are the source of life, Almighty God, our Creator. My whole body is filled with your life and love. Lord Jesus, touch me with Your Precious Blood and wash away all my sins.
I ask your forgiveness for every sin of mine. Heal me of all the hurts, anger, guilt feelings and all painful memories that linger in my deepest being. I have sinned, Lord, against you and against my neighbour. Jesus, you are present in the Eucharist. Lord, do come into my heart. While you are in my heart, I have nothing to fear, for you are the Son of God, and in my heart you are near.
In you is life, and in your life, Lord Jesus, I find life. You touched the bleeding woman and healed her. Have mercy on me, Lord. It is You Who guide me with your strength and make me righteous in your presence. Lord, God, You are almighty. You are merciful. You have touched me and healed me of all my ailments of soul, mind and body. I thank you specially for bringing me closer to you, for loving and protecting me and for healing me completely. With deep faith in my heart, I adore You my loving Jesus Who with the Father and the Holy Spirit are God for ever and ever. Amen.
Sunday May 28, 2023
PENTECOST SUNDAY (Solemnity)
office: Proper, Te Deum
Mass proper; Gloria. Sequence. Creed
Preface of Pentecost
For the Eucharistic Prayer 1, proper inserts.
Vestment: Red
Today’s Rosary: Glorious Mystery
Vespers II of Pentecost Sunday
PENTECOST SUNDAY
Today is a fitting occasion for the sprinkling rite and infant baptism. The Easter candle is lit at all Masses today, and if possible, at Evening Prayer.
ORDINARY TIME (Part Two) After the Easter Season: The Weeks of Ordinary Time celebrate no particular aspect of the mystery of Christ.
ENTRANCE ANTIPHON Wis. 1:7
The Spirit of the Lord has filled the whole world and that which contains all things understands what is said, alleluia.
COLLECT
O God, who by the mystery of today’s great feast sanctify your whole Church in every people and nation, pour out, we pray, the gifts of the Holy Spirit across the face of the earth and, with the divine grace that was at work when the Gospel was first proclaimed, fill now once more the hearts of believers. Through our Lord...
THEME OF THE SUNDAY: The Spirit, New Law of the Christian.
The first reading and the gospel talk of the descent of the Spirit. The stories of Luke and John complement each other and teach us that the Spirit is the new law, the force that leads us to do good.
The Spirit is the source of unity. It pulls down barriers and wherever it enters it destroys sin. The second reading describes a consequence of the presence of the Spirit. Each of us has been given gifts by the same Spirit and they must not be a source of competition but must rather be put at the service of unity.
-FIRST READING-
“They were all filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in other tongues.”
A reading from the Acts of the Apostles (Acts 2:1-11)
When the day of Pentecost had come, they were all together in one place. And suddenly a sound came from heaven like the rush of a mighty wind, and it filled all the house where they were sitting. And there appeared to them tongues as of fire, distributed and resting on each one of them. And they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in other tongues, as the Spirit gave them utterance. Now there were dwelling in Jerusalem Jews, devout men from every nation under heaven. And at this sound the multitude came together, and they were bewildered, because each one heard them speaking in his own language. And they were amazed and wondered, saying, “Are not all these who are speaking Galileans? And how is it that we hear, each of us in his own native language? Parthians and Medes and Elamites and residents of Mesopotamia, Judea and Cappadocia, Pontus and Asia, Phrygia and Pamphylia, Egypt and the parts of Libya belonging to Cyrene, and visitors from Rome, both Jews and proselytes, Cretans and Arabians, we hear them telling in our own tongues the mighty works of God.”
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Psalm104:1ab.24ac.29bc-30.31and 34 (R. cf. 30)
R/. Lord, send forth your Spirit, and renew the face of the earth.
Or: Alleluia.
Bless the Lord, O my soul!
O Lord my God, how great you are.
How many are your works, O Lord!
The earth is full of your creatures. R/.
You take away their breath, they die,
returning to the dust from which they came.
You send forth your spirit, and they are created,
and you renew the face of the earth. R/.
May the glory of the Lord last forever!
May the Lord rejoice in his works!
May my thoughts be pleasing to him.
I will rejoice in the Lord. R/.
-SECOND READING-
“By one Spirit we were all baptised into one body.”
A reading from the first Letter of Saint Paul to the Corinthians (1 Corinthians 12:3b-7. 12-13)
Brethren: No one can say “Jesus is Lord” except by the Holy Spirit. Now there are varieties of gifts, but the same Spirit; and there are varieties of service, but the same Lord; and there are varieties of working, but it is the same God who inspires them all in every one. To each is given the manifestation of the Spirit for the common good. For just as the body is one and has many members, and all the members of the body, though many, are one body, so it is with Christ. For by one Spirit we were all baptised into one body — Jews or Greeks, slaves or free — and all were made to drink of one Spirit.
The word of the Lord.
SEQUENCE (prose text) Sequence (prose text)
Come, Holy Spirit,
and from heaven direct on man the rays of your light. Come, Father of the poor;
come, giver of God’s gifts; come, light of men’s hearts.
Kindly Paraclete, in your gracious visits to man’s soul you bring relief and consolation.
If it is weary with toil, you bring it ease;
in the heat of temptation, your grace cools it; if sorrowful, your words console it.
Light most blessed, shine on the hearts of your faithful — even into their darkest corners;
for without your aid man can do nothing good, and everything is sinful.
Wash clean the sinful soul,
rain down your grace on the parched soul and heal the injured soul.
Soften the hard heart,
cherish and warm the ice-cold heart, and give direction to the wayward.
Give your seven holy gifts to your faithful, for their trust is in you.
Give them reward for their virtuous acts; give them a death that ensures salvation; give them unending bliss. Amen. Alleluia.
OR THE FOLLOWING
SEQUENCE (Poetic Text)
Come, Holy Spirit, come! And from thy celestial home
Shed a ray of light divine!
Come, Father of the poor! Come, source of all our store!
Come, within our bosoms shine!
Thou, of comforters the best;
Thou, the soul’s most welcome guest;
Sweet refreshment here below;
In our labour, rest most sweet; Grateful coolness in the heat;
Solace in the midst of woe. O most blessed Light divine,
Shine within these hearts of thine,
And our inmost being fill!
Where thou art not, man has naught,
Nothing good in deed or thought,
Nothing free from taint of ill.
Heal our wounds,
our strength renew;
On our dryness pour thy dew;
Wash the stains of guilt away:
Bend the stubborn heart and will;
Melt the frozen, warm the chill;
Guide the steps that go astray.
On the faithful, who adore
And confess thee, evermore
In thy sev’nfold gift descend;
Give them virtue’s sure reward;
Give them thy salvation,
Lord; Give them joys that never end.
Amen. Alleluia.
ALLELUIA
Alleluia. Come, O Holy Spirit, fill the hearts of your faithful; and kindle in them the fire of your love. Alleluia.
-GOSPEL-
“As the Father has sent me, even so I send you. Receive the Holy Spirit.”
A reading from the holy Gospel according to John (John 20: 19-23)
On the evening of that day, the first day of the week, the doors being shut where the disciples were, for fear of the Jews, Jesus came and stood among them and said to them, “Peace be with you.” When he had said this, he showed them his hands and his side. Then the disciples were glad when they saw the Lord. Jesus said to them again, “Peace be with you. As the Father has sent me, even so I send you.” And when he had said this, he breathed on them, and said to them, “Receive the Holy Spirit. If you forgive the sins of any, they are forgiven; if you retain the sins of any, they are retained.”
The Gospel of the Lord.
PRAYER OF THE FAITHFUL
Celebrant:
The Holy Spirit is the source of unity, bringing us together for the spread of the Gospel. Let us ask the Holy Spirit to come into our lives, our church and our world and make us all one people of God.
FOR THE LEADERS OF THE CHURCH: that the Holy Spirit, who called the Bishops, priests and deacons to his ministry, will form them into one abiding force for the spread of the Good News. Let us pray to the Lord.
FOR OUR NATION AND HER LEADERS: that our country, with her diverse cultural, ethnic and social stratifications, may always be united, and her leaders may strive to promote peace, unity and love. Let us pray to the Lord.
FOR OUR WORSHIPPING COMMUNITY: that we may experience an increase in members and witness harmonious living among families. Let us pray to the Lord.
FOR OTHER INTENTIONS: (the sick, church projects or other activities).
FOR THE DEAD, ESPECIALLY THOSE OF OUR PARISH COMMUNITY AND FAMILY MEMBERS: that they may find eternal rest with the Lord. Let us pray to the Lord.
We pray in silence for our private intentions.
Celebrant:
Heavenly Father, we welcome your spirit into our lives, our families and our world. Grant that we may work by the spirit’s inspiration and build up a loving and peaceful community. Through Christ our Lord.
R/. Amen.
TODAY'S REFLECTION
At Pentecost, we celebrate the coming of the Holy Spirit on the Apostles and Mary, giving birth to the church that courageously bears witness to the risen Lord, Jesus’ promise of sending an Advocate to guide his disciples is fulfilled.
The Holy Spirit is sent for a purpose… to remind the disciples of the teachings of Jesus and to instruct them further; to invest the apostles with the authority to forgive sins; to build up the faith and unity of the Christian community through various gifts of the spirit.
Today, there is a major renewal of interest in the Holy Spirit and spiritual charisms. Unfortunately, however, many ‘gifts of the spirit’ are restricted to spectacular, extraordinary and momentary phenomena which often become a cause of rivalry, conflict and division. Charisms that build up faith and unity in the Christian community, and lead to greater understanding, forgiveness and service, are true signs of the presence of the Holy Spirit.
PERSONAL DEVOTIONAL: Day 28 May Devotion
Following Jesus involves sacrifice and greater level of detachment. This is the way to go and that is the way that pleases the Lord.
Our Mother Mary made a lot of sacrifice to follow the Lord. She persevered till the end. She left so many things to answer the call of the Lord and when she did she never looked back. God comes first above every other thing in our life and we must be ready to give up every other thing please God and to be with Him like our Mother Mary did.
Meditation: Mark 10:17-27
Prayer:
Lord Jesus Christ, give me the grace to let go of every other thing in this life to follow you like the Blessed Virgin Mary did. May my detachment and sacrifice win me eternal life. Amen. And May the Almighty God bless you: the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit. Amen.
PENTECOST DAY
The purpose of Pentecost is the introduction to God doing something He has never done before, that of filling the faithful with His Holy Spirit. The purpose is that we become witness to His character, presence, power and authority.
"God is love" (l Jn 4::8, 16) and love is the first gift, containing all others. "God's love has been poured into our hearts by the Holy Spirit who has been given to us" (Rom 5:5). Yet we become aware of the lack of love in our lives. We call ourselves Christians, followers of Christ, yet our lives frequently contradict our claim. In the same chapter of the letter in which St. John tells us, "God is love", he also reminds us, "If anyone says, "I love God," and hates his brother, he is a liar; for he who does not love his brother whom he has seen, cannot love God whom he has not seen." (1 Jn 4: 20). We therefore, begin by asking pardon of the Lord for the lack of love in our lives.
Pentecost commemorates the descent of the Holy Spirit on the Apostles and other disciples following the Crucifixion, Resurrection, and Ascension of Jesus Christ ( Acts of the Apostles, Chapter 2), and it marks the beginning of the Christian church's mission to the world PENTECOST.
My dearly beloved, continue to support the Church's mission of the proclamation and propagation of the word of God to all ages with your time and your resources. May the Holy Spirit fall afresh on you today in Jesus Name. Amen
We appreciate your support and contributions for the propagation of God's Word. We are always praying for you.
Monday May 29, 2023
MARY MOTHER OF THE CHURCH (MEMORIAL)
Office: Memorial, Psalter Week 4
Mass of the Memorial; Preface of B.V.M
Vestment: White
Today’s Rosary: The Joyful Mysteries
-FIRST READING-
‘The offspring of the woman will crush your’
A reading from the book of Genesis 3:9-15, 20
After Adam had eaten of the tree, the Lord God called him and asked him, “Where are you?” He answered, “I heard you in the garden; but I was afraid, because I was naked, so I hid myself.” Then he asked, “Who told you that you were naked? You have eaten, then, from the tree of which I had forbidden you to eat!” The man replied, “The woman whom you put here with me – she gave me fruit from the tree, and so I ate it. “The LORD God then asked the woman, “Why did you do such a thing?” The woman answered “The serpent tricked me into it, so I ate it.” Then the LORD God said to the serpent: “Because you have done this, you shall be banned from all the animals and from all the wild creatures; on your belly shall you crawl, and dirt shall you eat all the days of your life. I will put enmity between you and the woman, and between your offspring and hers; He will stride at you head, while you strike at his heel.” The man called his wife Eve, because she became the mother of all those who live..
The Word of the Lord.
Responsorial Psalm - Psalm 86 (87)
R/. Of you are told glorious things, O city of God!
On the holy mountain is his city
cherished by the Lord.
The Lord prefers the gates of Zion
to all Jacob’s dwellings. R/.
Of you are told glorious things,
O city of God!
‘Zion shall be called “Mother”
for all shall be her children R/.
R/. Of you are told glorious things, O city of God!
It is he, the Lord Most High,
who gives each his place.
In his register of peoples he writes:
‘These are her children,’
and while they dance they will sing:
‘In you all find their home,’ R/.
ALLELUIA
Alleluia. Happy are you, holy Virgin Mary, and most worthy of all praise, for from you arose the sun of justice, Christ our God.
-GOSPEL-
‘Behold your son. Behold your mother.’
A reading from the Holy Gospel according to John (John 19:25-34)
Stand by the cross of Jesus were his mother and his mother’s sister, Mary the wife of Clopas, and Mary of Magdala. When Jesus saw his mother and the disciples there whom he loved, he said to his mother. “Woman, behold, your son.” Then he said to the disciple, “Behold you mother,” And from that hour the disciples took her into his home. After this, aware that everything was now finished, in order that the scripture might be fulfilled. Jesus said, “I thirst.” There was a vessel filled with common wine. So they put a sponge soaked in wine on a sprig of hyssop and put it up to his mouth. When Jesus had taken the wine, he said, “It is finished.” And bowing his head he handed over the spirit. Now since it was preparation day, in order that the bodies might not remain on the cross on the Sabbath, for the Sabbath day of that week was a solemn one, the Jews asked Pilate that their legs be broken and they be taken down. So the soldiers came and broke the legs of the first and them of the other one who was crucified with Jesus. But when they came to Jesus and saw that he was already dead, they did not break his legs, but one soldier thrust his lance into his side, and immediately blood and water flowed out.
The Gospel of the Lord.
TODAY’S REFLECTION
Today we celebrate the feast of Mary, Mother of the Church – MATER ECCLESIAE. Mary’s role in the Church is inseparable from her union with Christ and flows directly from it. This unbreakable union of Mother and Son in the work of salvation is made manifest from the time of Christ’s virginal conception up to His passion and death. Thus the Blessed Mother advanced in her pilgrimage of faith and faithfully persevered in her relationship with her Son the intensity of His suffering. On the cross, our dying plan, enduring with her only son the intensity of His suffering. On the cross, our dying Savior gave His mother to his beloved disciple. This marked the beginning of another level of her relationship with the disciples, up to the Pentecost event and even after Mary, you who are truly the Mother of the Church, pray for us!
BLESSING FOR THE NEW WEEK
Lord Jesus, I bless your name for giving me this day and for making me wake up from sleep strong and healthy. May your most Holy name be praised now and forever. Amen.
I offer to you all that we shall do today. Keep us safe, bless our families, favour the work of our hands and may your presence surround us and may it dispel and ward off every attack of the evil one.
Give me a faith that will be willing and ready to give a helping hand to others so that they will come to you and receive their blessings and miracles.
Through my work may the sick be healed, the eyes of the blind be opened, the deaf hear, the dumb speak and those whose hope is lost find their way back to you O Lord.
Make use of me to your own glory and may I become a channel of upliftment as I step out of my house today. May I be ready and willing to help others and in doing so may I never lack your help in my life. Amen.
It is a new day my dear friend, be positive in mind and heart, put in your best in what you do. Be kind to people, you will definitely receive God’s blessings and your testimonies will be sure at the end of the day.
May God’s help and glory rest upon you so that you will do good in his name. Amen.
Meditation: Isaiah 35:1-10 / Luke 5:17-26
PERSONAL DEVOTIONAL: Day 29 May Devotion
If one is not ready to bear the pain that comes with discipleship, he or she will never be counted among the greats in the sight of the Lord.
Our Mother Mary by saying yes to God accepted all the pain that has to come her way. She never jumped the ship when the going got tough, instead, she soaked it in and remained steadfast and today she is in heaven interceding for us. We must learn from her to accept the separation and pain that will come to us by following Jesus so that in the end we will find eternal life.
Meditation: Mark 1: 10-16
Let us pray;
Heavenly Father, give me the grace to follow you without looking back and may I stay committed to you till the end of my life as our Mother Mary did. Amen. And May the Almighty God bless you: the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit. Amen.
Tuesday May 30, 2023
Weekday (8)
Office: Psalter Week 4
Mass and Preface of the day;
Vestment: Green
Today’s Rosary: The Joyful Mysteries
-FIRST READING-
He who heeds the commandments sacrifices a peace offering.
A reading from the Book of Sirach (Sirach 35: 1-12)
He who keeps the law makes many offerings; he who heeds the commandments sacrifices a peace offering. He who returns a kindness offers fine flour, and he who gives alms sacrifices a thank offering. To keep from wickedness is pleasing to the Lord, and to forsake unrighteousness is atonement. Do not appear before the Lord empty-handed, for all these things are to be done because of the commandment. The offering of a righteous man anoints the altar, and its pleasing odour rises before the Most High. The sacrifice of a righteous man is acceptable, and the memory of it will not be forgotten. Glorify the Lord generously, and do not stint the first fruits of your hands. With every gift show a cheerful face, and dedicate your tithe with gladness. Give to the Most High as he has given and as generously as your hand has found. For the Lord is the one who repays, and he will repay you sevenfold. Do not offer him a bribe, for he will not accept it; and do not trust to an unrighteous sacrifice; for the Lord is the judge, and with him is no partiality.
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Psalm 50:5-6.7-8.14 and 23 (R. 23bc)
R/. To one whose way is blameless, I will show the salvation of God.
“Gather my holy ones to me,
who made covenant with me by sacrifice.”
The heavens proclaim his justice,
for he, God, is the judge. R/.
“Listen, my people, I will speak; Israel,
I will testify against you, for I am God, your God.
I do not rebuke you for your sacrifices;
your offerings are always before me.” R/.
R/. To one whose way is blameless, I will show the salvation of God.
“Give your praise as a sacrifice to God,
and fulfil your vows to the Most High.
A sacrifice of praise gives me honour,
and to one whose way is blameless,
I will show the salvation of God.” R/.
ALLELUIA Matthew 11:25
Alleluia. Blessed are you, Father, Lord of heaven and earth, that you have revealed to little ones the mysteries of the kingdom. Alleluia.
-GOSPEL-
You will receive a hundredfold now in this time with persecutions, and in the age to come eternal life.
A reading from the holy Gospel according to Mark (Mark 10:28-31)
At that time: Peter began to say to Jesus, “Behold, we have left everything and followed you.” Jesus said, “Truly, I say to you; there is no one who has left house or brothers or sisters or mother or father or children or lands, for my sake and for the gospel, who will not receive a hundredfold now in this time, houses and brothers and sisters and mothers and children and lands, with persecutions, and in the age to come eternal life. But many that are first will be last, and the last first.”
The Gospel of the Lord.
TODAY’S REFLECTION
Following Jesus entails complete detachment from worldly attraction and their glory. It is an invitation to a life of total commitment; an intimate relationship of love for God, obedience to Christ and holiness of life. The first reading presents us with the lifestyle of a virtuous man. His offering graces the alter of the Most High and his sacrifices are acceptable to God. In the Gospel, Peter asks the Lord: “What about us? We have left everything and followed you.” Jesus in response reveals to His disciple – priests and religious included - the plans of God for those who truly follow Him wholeheartedly, without any reservation.” …You will be repaid a hundred times over in this present age and, in the world to come, eternal life.” May we who have followed You, O Lord, never be disappointed.
TODAY'S SAINTS
St. Joan of Arc – May 30th
- I place trust in God, my creator, in all things; I love Him with all my heart.
- Help yourself and God will help you.
- I am not afraid. I was born to do this.
PERSONAL DEVOTIONAL: Day 30 May Devotion
The servant-leadership style is what Jesus laid down for us as an example to follow. This means that if we are to be His ambassadors here on earth we must lead by example.
Our Mother Mary understood what it means to be the leader by being the servant of all. She was at the service of all who came to her. She was humble to the core and she made a lot of sacrifice for the good of others. This is what we must learn and practice on a daily basis, that is, to be the servant-leader so that through us others will come to appreciate the teachings of Jesus.
Meditation: Mark 10:32-45
Let Us Pray:
Lord Jesus Christ, you have taught us to be servant leaders, help me to use the position and status I occupy in this life to serve humanity so as to bring glory to your name. Amen. And May the Almighty God bless you: the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit. Amen.
Wednesday May 31, 2023
VISITATION OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN MARY (FEAST)
Office: Proper, Te Deum
Mass of the Feast, Gloria. Preface of BVM
Vestment: White
Today’s Rosary: The Glorious Mysteries
END OF MAY DEVOTION
Today we celebrate the Visitation of Our Lady to her cousin Elizabeth. This beautiful and grace-filled event reveals the plan of salvation of God and the special role that Mary, full of the Spirit, plays as she brings the Word of life to her cousin. Mary becomes the image of the missionary Church, filled with the Spirit and eager to bring Christ to all peoples of the world.
ENTRANCE ANTIPHON Cf. Ps 66: 16
Come and hear, all who fear God; I will tell what he did for my soul (E.T. alleluia).
COLLECT
Almighty ever-living God, who while the Blessed Virgin Mary was carrying your Son in her womb, inspired her to visit Elizabeth; grant us, we pray, that, faithful to the promptings of the Spirit, we may magnify your greatness with the Virgin Mary at all times. Through our Lord. . .
-FIRST READING-
“The king of Israel, the Lord, is in your midst. ”
A reading from the Book of the Prophet Zephaniah (Zephaniah 3: 14- 18a)
Sing aloud, O daughter of Sion; shout, O Israel! Rejoice and exult with all your heart, O daughter of Jerusalem! The Lord has taken away the judgements against you, he has cast out your enemies. The King of Israel, the Lord, is in your midst; you shall fear evil no more. On that day it shall be said to Jerusalem: “Do not fear, O Sion; let not your hands grow weak. The Lord your God is in your midst, a warrior who gives victory; he will rejoice over you with gladness, he will renew you in his love; he will exult over you with loud singing as on a day of festival.
The word of the Lord.
Or the following:
-FIRST READING-
“Contribute to the needs of the, saints, practice hospitality.”
A reading from the Letter of Saint Paul to the Romans (Romans 12:9-16b)
Brethren: Let love be genuine; hate what is evil, hold fast to what is good; love one another with brotherly affection; outdo one another in showing honour. Never flag in zeal, be a glow with the Spirit, serve the Lord. Rejoice in your hope, be patient in tribulation, be constant in prayer. Contribute to the needs of the saints, practice hospitality. Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse them. Rejoice with those who rejoice, weep with those who weep. Live in harmony with one another; do not be haughty, but associate with the lowly.
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Isaiah 12:2-3.4bcde.5-6 (R. 6b)
R/. Great in your midst is the Holy One of Israel.
“Behold, God is my salvation;
I will trust, and will not be afraid;
for the Lord God is my strength and my song,
and he has become my salvation.”
With joy you will draw water from the wells of salvation. R/.
“Give thanks to the Lord,
call upon his name;
make known his deeds among the nations,
proclaim that his name is exalted.” R/.
R/. Great in your midst is the Holy One of Israel.
“Sing praises to the Lord, for he has done gloriously;
let this be known in all the earth.
Shout, and sing for joy, O inhabitants of Sion,
for great in your midst is the Holy One of Israel.” R/.
ALLELUIA Luke 1:45
Alleluia. Blessed are you, O Virgin Mary, who believed that there would be a fulfilment of what was spoken to you from the Lord. Alleluia.
-GOSPEL-
“Why is this granted me, that the mother of my Lord should come to me?”
A reading from the holy Gospel according to Luke (Luke 1:39 - 56)
In those days Mary arose and went with haste into the hill country, to a city of Judah, and she entered the house of Zechariah and greeted Elizabeth. And when Elizabeth heard the greeting of Mary, the child leaped in her womb; and Elizabeth was filled with the Holy Spirit and she exclaimed with a loud cry, “Blessed are you among women, and blessed is the fruit of your womb! And why is this granted me, that the mother of my Lord should come to me? For behold, when the voice of your greeting came to my ears, the child in my womb leaped for joy. And blessed is she who believed that there would be a fulfilment of what was spoken to her from the Lord.” And Mary said, “My soul magnifies the Lord, and my spirit rejoices in God my Saviour, for he has regarded the low estate of his handmaiden. For behold, henceforth all generations will call me blessed; for he who is mighty has done great things for me, and holy is his name. And his mercy is on those who fear him from generation to generation. He has shown strength with his arm, he has scattered the proud in the imagination of their hearts, he has put down the mighty from their thrones, and exalted those of low degree; he has filled the hungry with good things, and the rich he has sent empty away. He has helped his servant Israel, in remembrance of his mercy, as he spoke to our fathers, to Abraham and to his posterity for ever.” And Mary remained with her about three months, and returned to her home.
The Gospel of the Lord.
PRAYER OF THE FAITHFUL
Celebrant:
By going to care for Elizabeth, her pregnant cousin, the Blessed Virgin Mary gives us an example of selflessness and genuine love for others. Let us pray that, in all our interactions, we may be guided by Christian charity.
FOR THE LEADERS OF THE CHURCH: that, like the Blessed Virgin Mary, they may continually dispose themselves towards ensuring that the message of salvation reaches the ends of the earth. Let us pray to the Lord.
FOR THOSE IN PUBLIC AUTHORITY: that, following the example of the selflessness of the Blessed Virgin Mary, they may place the common good above their personal interests. Let us pray to the Lord.
FOR OUR COUNTRY: that the Blessed Virgin Mary, the Queen of our nation, may continually intercede for us that true peace may reign in every corner of our land. Let us pray to the Lord.
FOR ALL WOMEN IN OUR COMMUNITY: that, as Mary put herself at the service of Elizabeth, they may be models of love and service in their families. Let us pray to the Lord.
FOR OTHER INTENTIONS: (the sick, church projects or other activities).
FOR THE DEAD, ESPECIALLY THOSE OF OUR PARISH COMMUNITY AND FAMILY MEMBERS: that they may find eternal rest with the Lord. Let us pray to the Lord.
We pray in silence for our private intentions.
Celebrant:
God our Father, help us to imitate the virtues of the Blessed Virgin Mary and, through her intercession, grant us all we ask of you with humble hearts. Through Christ our Lord.
R/. Amen.
TODAY’S REFLECTION
Today we celebrate the visitation of the Blessed Virgin Mary to Elizabeth. In the Gospel, after the Angel’s message and her Fiat, Mary goes with haste to visit her kinswoman and share her joy. Mary is acclaimed by Elizabeth, at the prompting of the Spirit and even before the birth of her Son, as “The Mother of my Lord”. In fact, the One whom she conceived as man by the Holy Spirit, who truly became her Son according to the flesh, was none other than the Father’s eternal Son, the second Person of the Holy Trinity. Hence the Church confesses that Mary is truly Mother of God. May the joy and happiness experienced by Mary and Elizabeth because of Christ be made manifest in our lives!
PERSONAL DEVOTIONAL: Day 31 May Devotion
As we wrap up the May devotion today, dearest friend, our Blessed Mother gives us a wonderful example to Emulate and we must not let anything stop us from doing what she did.
She responded positively to the promptings of the Holy Spirit and visited Elizabeth and brought joy to her home. The desire to do good to others through our words and actions come from time to time and if we say yes to the Holy Spirit like our Mother Mary did we will do it, if not, we will not, and we will lose the blessings and reward that comes with it. When your word and action bring good to others, your soul will definitely magnify the Lord and more good will come to you from God who is goodness Himself. Make a visit today or say that word that will radiate joy and not sadness to those around you.
Meditation: Mark 10:32-35
Prayer:
Lord Jesus Christ, help me to use the gifts in me to do good that will joy to others, happiness to me and glory to your name. I am all yours, do with me whatever you will. Amen. And May the Almighty God bless you: the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit. Amen.
Thursday June 1, 2023
ST JUSTIN, M. (Memorial)
Office: Memorial, Psalter Week 4
Mass and Preface of the Memorial
Vestment: Red
Today’s Rosary: Luminous Mystery
-FIRST READING-
“The work of the Lord is full of his glory. ”
A reading from the Book of Sirach (Sirach 42: 15-25)
I will now call to mind the works of the Lord, and will declare what I have seen. By the words of the Lord his works are done, and in his will, justice is carried out. The sun looks down on everything with its light, and the work of the Lord is full of his glory. The Lord has not enabled his holy ones to recount all his marvellous works, which the Lord the Almighty has established that the universe may stand firm in his glory. He searches out the abyss, and the hearts of men, and considers their crafty devices. For the Most High knows all that may be known, and he looks into the signs of the age. He declares what has been and what is to be, and he reveals the tracks of hidden things. No thought escapes him, and not one word is hidden from him. He has ordained the splendours of his wisdom, and he is from everlasting and to everlasting. Nothing can be added or taken away, and he needs no one to be his counsellor. How greatly to be desired are all his works, and how sparkling they are to see! All these things live and remain for ever for every need, and are all obedient. All things are twofold, one opposite the other, and he has made nothing incomplete. One confirms the good things of the other, and who can have enough of beholding his glory?
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Psalm 33:2-3.4-5.6-7.8-9 (R. 6a)
R/. By the word of the Lord the heavens were made.
Give thanks to the Lord upon the harp;
with a ten-stringed lute sing him songs.
O sing him a song that is new;
play skilfully, with shouts of joy. R/.
For the word of the Lord is faithful,
and all his works to be trusted.
The Lord loves justice and right,
and his merciful love fills the earth. R/.
R/. By the word of the Lord the heavens were made.
By the word of the Lord the heavens were made,
by the breath of his mouth all their host.
As in a flask, he collects the waves of the ocean;
he stores up the depths of the sea. R/.
Let all the earth fear the Lord,
all who live in the world revere him.
He spoke, and it came to be.
He commanded; it stood in place. R.
ALLELUIA John 8: 12
Alleluia. I am the light of the world, says the Lord; he who follows me will have the light of life. Alleluia.
-GOSPEL-
“Master let me receive my sight. ”
A reading from the holy Gospel according to Mark (Mark 10:46-52)
At that time: As Jesus was leaving Jericho with his disciples and a great multitude, Bartimaeus, a blind beggar, the son of Timaeus, was sitting by the roadside. And when he heard that it was Jesus of Nazareth, he began to cry out and say, “Jesus, Son of David, have mercy on me!” And many rebuked him, telling him to be silent; but he cried out all the more, “Son of David, have mercy on me!” And Jesus stopped and said, “Call him.” And they called the blind man, saying to him, “Take heart; rise, he is calling you.” And throwing off his cloak he sprang up and came to Jesus. And Jesus said to him, “What do you want me to do for you?” And the blind man said to him, “Master, let me receive my sight.” And Jesus said to him, “Go your way; your faith has made you well.” And immediately he received his sight and followed him on the way.
The Gospel of the Lord.
TODAY’S REFLECTION
God’s creation was a marvelous work and His redemption was even more wonderful. In the first reading, Ben Sirach praises the magnificent works of God. The world in all its reality, in all its modality, and all its being began to exist by an act of free and gratuitous love of the Omnipotent Will of God. The world is totally dependent of Him, sustained and directed by His Goodness and Providence. “By the words of the Lord His works came into being.” Jesus is the eternal Word of God and by His incarnation, He became flesh and dwelt amongst us. He heals our diseases and bears our sicknesses. Today Jesus restores sight to Bartimaeus. May He grant us the gift of faith and bring us health of mind and body! Amen.
Blessing for the New Month
We give thanks to God for giving us this new month and for making it possible for us to see the light of the day. May his name be praised and exalted forever more. Amen.
My dear friend, as Abraham was blessed in the book of Genesis 18 so shall you be blessed by the Lord and your joy and happiness shall be restored in full measure. This month shall be a month of kindness for us. Be kind to people as much as you can as Abraham did to the angels of the Lord and you will in turn receive blessings from God.
Open your heart and your hands to be hospitable to those who are in need and God will open his hands to bless you abundantly beyond your imagination. Do not neglect or look down on people, because you do not know the person whom God is sending to bless your life.
The kindness you show to others will never be a curse but a blessing but a blessing to you. Have a wonderful month of kindness in all ramifications of your life. Amen
Meditation: Genesis 18:1-15/Matthew 8:5- 17
Friday June 2, 2023
ST MARCELLINUS AND PETER (Opt Mem)
Office: Psalter Week 4
Mass of the day or of the Memorial
Preface of the day or Memorial
Weekday (8)
Vestment: Green
Today’s Rosary: The Sorrowful Mysteries
-FIRST READING-
Our forefathers are men of mercy, and their name lives on from generation to generation.
A reading from the Book of Sirach (Sirach 44:1.9-13)
Let us now praise famous men, and our fathers in their generations. There are some who have no memorial, who have perished as though they had not lived; they have become as though they had not been born, and so have their children after them. But these were men of mercy, whose righteous deeds have not been forgotten; their prosperity will remain with their descendants, and their inheritance to their children’s children. Their descendants stand by the covenants; their children also, for their sake. Their posterity will continue for ever, and their glory will not be blotted out.
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Psalm 149:1b-2.3-4.5-6a and 9b (R. 4a)
R/. The Lord takes delight in his people.
Or: Alleluia.
Sing a new song to the Lord,
his praise in the assembly of the faithful.
Let Israel rejoice in its Maker;
let Sion’s children exult in their king. R/.
Let them praise his name with dancing,
and make music with timbrel and harp.
For the Lord takes delight in his people;
he crowns the poor with salvation. R/.
R/. The Lord takes delight in his people.
Or: Alleluia.
Let the faithful exult in glory,
and rejoice as they take their rest.
Let the praise of God be in their mouths.
This is an honour for all his faithful. R/.
ALLELUIA John 15: 16
Alleluia. I chose you from the world that you should go and bear fruit and that your fruit should abide, says the Lord. Alleluia.
-GOSPEL-
“My house shall be called a house of prayer for all the nations. Have faith in God.”
A reading from the holy Gospel according to Mark (Mark 11:11-25)
Jesus entered Jerusalem [amid acclamations from the crowd,] and went into the temple; and when he had looked round at everything, as it was already late, he went out to Bethany with the Twelve. On the following day, when they came from Bethany, he was hungry. And seeing in the distance a fig tree in leaf, he went to see if he could find anything on it. When he came to it, he found nothing but leaves, for it was not the season for figs. And he said to it, “May no one ever eat fruit from you again.” And his disciples heard it. And they came to Jerusalem. And he entered the temple and began to drive out those who sold and those who bought in the temple, and he overturned the tables of the money-changers and the seats of those who sold pigeons; and he would not allow any one to carry anything through the temple. And he taught, and said to them, “Is it not written, ‘My house shall be called a house of prayer for all the nations’? But you have made it a den of robbers.” And the chief priests and the scribes heard it and sought a way to destroy him; for they feared him, because all the multitude was astonished at his teaching. And when evening came they went out of the city. As they passed by in the morning, they saw the fig tree withered away to its roots. And Peter remembered and said to him, “Master, look! The fig tree which you cursed has withered.” And Jesus answered them, “Have faith in God. Truly, I say to you, whoever says to this mountain, ‘Be taken up and cast into the sea,’ and does not doubt in his heart, but believes that what he says will come to pass, it will be done for him. Therefore I tell you, whatever you ask in prayer, believe that you receive it, and you will. And whenever you stand praying, forgive, if you have anything against any one; so that your Father also who is in heaven may forgive you your trespasses.”
The Gospel of the Lord.
TODAY’S REFLECTION
It is divine providence that, in every age, God raises up distinguished men and women with talents and efforts suited to the times and their exigencies. These people walked the sands of time and contributed tremendously to the history of man’s existence and salvation. It is in this light that the first reading praises these illustrious people, our ancestors, in their successive generations; those whose good works will never be forgotten. As a matter of fact, as stated by the psalmist, the Lord takes delight in His people. God created us for Himself and made us stewards of His creations. An account of our stewardship and how well we used our talents will be demanded of us at the end. Forgive our transgressions, O Lord, and increase Your faith in us.
PERSONAL DEVOTIONAL
- Dear Lord, I thank you for this day, I thank you for my being able to see and hear this morning. I am blessed because you are a forgiving and an understanding God.
- You have done so much for me and kept on blessing me. Grant me the grace Father not to offend you or my neighbour today. When the enemy of my soul comes to seduce me to sin against you please help me to run to your Son Jesus.
Let Us Pray,
Please keep me safe from all dangers and harm. Help me to start this day with a new attitude and plenty of gratitude. Let me make the best of this day with a clear mind, so that I can hear from you. Please broaden my mind that I can accept all things. Let me not whine and whimper over things that I have no control over. Please Lord continue to use me that I may be a blessing to others especially those who are hurt and do not have any person to help them. Keep me strong that I may help the weak. Keep me uplifted that I may have words of encouragement for others. In Jesus name Amen.
Saturday June 3, 2023
Ss CHARLES LWANGA & COMP, M. (MEMORIAL)
Office: Memorial, Psalter Week4
Mass and Preface of the Memorial
Vestment: Red
Today’s Rosary: The Joyful Mystery
Vespers 1 of the Most Holy Trinity
-FIRST READING-
“To him who gives me wisdom I will give glory. ”
A reading from the Book of Sirach (Sirach 51: 12c-20b)
I will give thanks to you and praise you, and I will bless the name of the Lord. While I was still young, before I went on my travels, I sought wisdom openly in my prayer. Before the temple I asked for her, and I will search for her to the last. From blossom to ripening grape my heart delighted in her; my foot entered upon the straight path; from my youth I followed her steps. I inclined my ear a little and received her, and I found for myself much instruction. I made progress therein; to him who gives me wisdom I will give glory. For I resolved to live according to wisdom, and I was zealous for the good; and I shall never be put to shame. My soul grappled with wisdom, and in my conduct I was strict; I spread out my hands to the heavens, and lamented my ignorance of her. I directed my soul to her, and through purification I found her.
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Psalm 19: 19:5.9.10.11 (R. 9ab)
R/. The precepts of the Lord are right; they gladden the heart.
The law of the Lord is perfect; it revives the soul.
The decrees of the Lord are steadfast;
they give wisdom to the simple. R/.
The precepts of the Lord are right;
they gladden the heart.
The command of the Lord is clear;
it gives light to the eyes. R/.
R/. The precepts of the Lord are right; they gladden the heart.
The fear of the Lord is pure, abiding forever.
The judgements of the Lord are true;
they are, all of them, just. R/.
They are more to be desired than gold,
than quantities of gold.
And sweeter are they than honey,
than honey flowing from the comb. R/.
ALLELUIA Colossians 3: 16a.17c
Alleluia. Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly, giving thanks to God the Father through him. Alleluia.
-GOSPEL-
“By what authority are you doing these things?”
A reading from the holy Gospel according to Mark (Mark 11:27-33)
At that time: Jesus and the disciples came again to Jerusalem. And as he was walking in the temple, the chief priests and the scribes and the elders came to him, and they said to him, “By what authority are you doing these things, or who gave you this authority to do them?” Jesus said to them, “I will ask you a question; answer me, and I will tell you by what authority I do these things. Was the baptism of John from heaven or from men? Answer me.” And they argued with one another, “If we say, ‘From heaven,’ he will say, ‘Why then did you not believe him?’ But shall we say, ‘From men’?” — they were afraid of the people, for all held that John was a real prophet. So they answered Jesus, “We do not know.” And Jesus said to them, “Neither will I tell you by what authority I do these things.”
The Gospel of the Lord.
TODAY’S REFLECTION
“What authority have you for action like this? Who gave you authority to do these things?” Divine authority originates from God, the Source and Summit of all created realities. In Jesus authority is shown the power of God to command action, obedience or compliance. This authority is intermingled with charism. Jesus’ authority reveals the nature of God as one, while charism reveals the efficacious working of the gifts of God’s Spirit in the world as manifested in creation, redemption and sanctification. Wherever He goes, Jesus does the will of His Father and is not ready to make any compromise or accept any intimidation. This is the example shown us by Jesus: that we must never for any reason give up on God. Teach us to do Your will, O God!
PERSONAL DEVOTIONAL
Sing with us, “into my life 2x, come into my life, Lord Jesus, come into stay…”
- Tell Jesus about the heavy loads crushing you.
- Ask for mercy for the times you took your troubles to other gods.
- Invite Jesus into your life and family.
Let Us Pray
Mary my Mother of Perpetual Help, with trust in you as my spiritual mother in the family of Christ Jesus, I implore your maternal intercession, inspired me by the example of your life and faith in the name of Jesus, I think of you at that moment when, full of faith and trust, you accepted God’s call to be the mother of His Son. Help me, your child, to accept with joy my own calling in life in the name of Jesus. When you learned that your cousin Elizabeth was in need you immediately went to serve her and offer your help. Help me, like you, to be concerned for others in the name of Jesus. I think of you, Mother, at the foot of the cross. Your heart must have bled to see your Son in agony. But your Joy was great when he rose from the dead, victorious over the powers of evil. Mother of sorrows, help me through the trials and disappointments of life. Help me not to lose heart.
Sunday June 4, 2023
MOST HOLY TRINITY (Solemnity)
Office: Proper, Te Deum
Mass prop. Gloria. Creed.
Preface of the Trinity
V1 -, R1 -, R2 -,
Vestment: White
Today’s Rosary: The Glorious Mysteries
Vespers II of the Most Holy Trinity
THEME OF THE FEAST: In What Kind of God Do You Believe?
All three readings teach us today something about the nature of God. The first tells us that the biblical God is quite different from the god worshipped by people of other religions. God does not become angry, is not willful, does not punish us and is not spying on us. The gospel tells us that he has not moved away from us, but has joined his life to the world and to ours. The second reading teaches us that God is family, a family open to us all.
ENTRANCE ANTIPHON
Blest be God the Father, and the Only Begotten Son of God, and also the Holy Spirit: for he has shown us his merciful love.
The Gloria in excels is (Glory to God in the highest) is said.
COLLECT
God our Father, who by sending into the world the Word of truth and the Spirit of sanctification made known to the human race your wondrous mystery; grant us, we pray, that in professing the true faith, we may acknowledge the Trinity of eternal glory, and adore your Unity, powerful in majesty. Through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son, who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever.
-FIRST READING-
“The Lord, the Lord, a God merciful and gracious.”
A reading from the Book of Exodus (Exodus 34:4b-6.8-9)
In those days: Moses rose early in the morning and went up on Mount Sinai, as the Lord had commanded him, and took in his hand two tables of stone. And the Lord descended in the cloud and stood with him there, and proclaimed the name of the Lord. The Lord passed before him, and proclaimed, “The Lord, the Lord, a God merciful and gracious, slow to anger, and abounding in steadfast love and faithfulness.” And Moses made haste to bow his head towards the earth, and worshipped. And he said, “If now I have found favour in your sight, O Lord, let the Lord, I beg you, go in the midst of us, although it is a stiff-necked people; and pardon our iniquity and our sin, and take us for your inheritance.”
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Daniel 3:29-30.31.33.32.34 (R. cf. 29b)
R/. You are to be praised and highly exalted forever.
Blessed are you, O Lord, God of our fathers,
and to be praised and highly exalted forever;
and blessed is your glorious, holy name
and to be highly praised and highly exalted forever. R/.
Blessed are you in the temple of your holy glory
and to be extolled and highly glorified forever. R/.
Blessed are you upon the throne of your kingdom
and to be extolled and highly exalted forever. R/.
Blessed are you, who sit upon cherubim and look upon the deeps,
and to be praised and highly exalted forever. R/.
Blessed are you in the firmament of heaven
and to be sung and glorified forever. R/.
-SECOND READING-
“The grace. Of our Lord Jesus Christ and the love of God and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit.”
A reading from the second Letter of Saint Paul to the Corinthians (2 Corinthians 13:11-13)
Brethren, rejoice. Mend your ways, heed my appeal, agree with one another, live in peace, and the God of love and peace will be with you. Greet one another with a holy kiss. All the saints greet you, the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ and the love of God and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit be with you all.
The word of the Lord.
ALLELUIA Cf. Revelation 1:8
Alleluia. Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit: to God who is, who was, and who is to come. Alleluia.
-GOSPEL-
“God sent his Son that the world might be saved through him.”
A reading from the holy Gospel according to John (John 3.16-18)
God so loved the world that he gave his only-begotten Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life. For God sent the Son into the world, not to condemn the world, but that the world might be saved through him. He who believes in him is not condemned; he who does not believe is condemned already, because he has not believed in the name of the only-begotten Son of God.
The Gospel of the Lord.
PRAYER OF THE FAITHFUL
Celebrant:
God the Father sent into the world the word of truth and the spirit of sanctification. Let us pray that our lives may always give witness and praise to the Holy Trinity.
FOR THE CHURCH: that she, through her teachings and ministry, may show the world the true image of the Triune God, whose love and mercy endures forever. We pray O lord
FOR WORLD LEADERS: that, inspired by the unity of the three Persons of the Blessed Trinity, they may promote a world in which all persons acknowledge their common divine origin, and thus seek to live harmoniously. We pray O Lord.
FOR THOSE WHO HAVE GIVEN UP ON LIFE: that they may be open to the promptings of the Holy Spirit, who endows us with wisdom and courage to face every challenge. We pray O Lord.
FOR THIS COMMUNITY GATHERED HERE: that, inspired by the perfect unity that exists among the three persons of the Holy Trinity, we may seek to live in peace and sincere love with one another. We pray O Lord.
FOR OTHER INTENTIONS: (the sick, church projects or other activities).
For the dead, especially those of our parish community and family members: that they may find eternal rest with the Lord. We pray O Lord.
We pray in silence for our private intentions.
Celebrant:
God, our loving Father, be merciful to us your children and grant us the grace always to live under your guidance. Through our Lord, Jesus Christ your Son, who lives with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit, God forever and ever.
R/. Amen.
PERSONAL DEVOTIONAL
“I did not reject you, but chose you. Do not be afraid – I am with you! I am your God – let nothing terrify you! I will make you strong and help you; I will protect you and save you. Isaiah 41:10
- On what path are you walking, child of God?
- Many ways seem right to the man but the end thereof is condemnation. Ask the Holy Spirit to redirect your footsteps to the Lord’s path.
- Your eyes may have been veiled to see Jesus, ask the Lord to open the eyes of your mind to see and accept Jesus live in their lives and for their salvation.
- Pray that the sound teachings of the scripture will not be polluted by the false teaching of the Rabbis.
- Pray against dashed hopes and shattered dreams of your lives and look towards the rising sun and not towards the settling sun.
Let Us Pray
St. Michael the Archangel, defend us in battle. Be our defense against the wickedness and shares of the Devil. May God rebuke him, we humbly pray, and do thou, O Prince of the heavenly hosts, by the power of God, cast into hell Satan, and all the evil spirits, who prowl about the world seeking the ruin of souls. Amen.
Monday June 5, 2023
ST BONIFACE, B.M. (MEMORIAL)
Office: Memorial, Psalter Week 1
Mass of the Memorial. Preface of Pastors
Vestment: Red
Today’s Rosary: The Joyful Mysteries
-FIRST READING-
“Tobit walked in the ways of truth.”
The beginning of the Book of Tobit. Tobit 1:3; 2 :1-8
I, Tobit, walked in the ways of truth and righteousness all the days of my life, and I performed many acts of charity to my brethren and countrymen who went with me into the land of the Assyrians, to Nineveh. When I arrived home and my wife Anna and my son Tobias were restored to me, at the feast of Pentecost, which is the sacred festival of the seven weeks, a good dinner was prepared for me and I sat down to eat. Upon seeing the abundance of food I said to my son, “Go and bring whatever poor man of our brethren you may find among the exiles in Nineveh, who is mindful of the Lord, and he shall eat together with me. I will wait for you until you come back.” So Tobias went out to look for some poor person of our people. When he came back, he said, “Father!” And I replied, “Here I am, my child.” Then he went on to say, “Look, Father, one of our people has been murdered and thrown into the market place, and now he lies there strangled.” So before I tasted anything I sprang up and removed the body to a place of shelter until sunset when I might bury it. And when I returned I washed myself and ate my food in sorrow. Then I remembered the prophecy of Amos, how he said against Bethel, “Your feasts shall be turned into mourning, and all your songs into lamentation.” And I wept. When the sun had set I went and dug a grave and buried the body. And my neighbours laughed at me and said, “He is still not afraid; he has already been hunted down to be put to death for doing this, and he ran away, yet here he is burying the dead again!”
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Psalm 112:1b-2.3-4.5-6 (R. 1b)
R/. Blessed the man who fears the Lord.
Or: Alleluia.
Blessed the man who fears the Lord,
who takes great delight in his commandments.
His descendants shall be powerful on earth;
the generation of the upright will be blest. R/.
Riches and wealth are in his house;
his justice stands firm forever.
A light rises in the darkness for the upright;
he is generous, merciful and just. R/.
R/. Blessed the man who fears the Lord.
Or: Alleluia.
It goes well for the man who deals generously and lends,
who conducts his affairs with justice.
He will never be moved;
forever shall the just be remembered. R/.
ALLELUIA Revelation 1 :5ac
Alleluia. Jesus Christ, you are the faithful witness, the first-born of the dead; you have loved us and washed away our sins in your blood. Alleluia.
-GOSPEL-
“They took the beloved son, killed him, and cast him out of the vineyard.”
A reading from the holy Gospel according to Mark (Mark 12:1-12)
At that time: Jesus began to speak to the chief priests and the scribes and the elders in parables. “A man planted a vineyard, and set a hedge around it, and dug a pit for the wine press, and built a tower, and leased it to tenants, and went into another country. When the time came, he sent a servant to the tenants, to get from them some of the fruit of the vineyard. And they took him and beat him, and sent him away empty-handed. Again he sent to them another servant, and they wounded him in the head, and treated him shamefully. And he sent another, and him they killed; and so with many others, some they beat and some they killed.” He had still one other, a beloved son; finally he sent him to them, saying, ‘They will respect my son.’ But those tenants said to one another, ‘This is the heir; come, let us kill him, and the inheritance will be ours.’ And they took him and killed him, and cast him out of the vineyard. “What will the owner of the vineyard do? He will come and destroy the tenants, and give the vineyard to others. Have you not read this Scripture: ‘The very stone which the builders rejected has become the head of the corner; this was the Lord’s doing, and it is marvellous in our eyes’?” And they tried to arrest him, but feared the multitude, for they perceived that he had told the par- able against them; so they left him and went away.
The Gospel of the Lord.
PERSONAL DEVOTIONAL
"The Lord is our shelter and strength, always ready to help in times of trouble. So we shall not be afraid, even if the earth is shaken". Psalm 46:1, 2
- Father, forgive me for neglecting to focus on the crown of life every day of my life.
- Dear Lord, give me the grace to follow you till the end of my life.
- Pray that every child of God should be conscious of the reward of eternal life which Christian race has to offer and work towards it.
Let Us Pray
Dear Lord, do not let me be separated from you because of hardship, persecution, hunger, poverty, danger or death. Help me to remain faithful to you in the mighty name of Jesus.
Memory verse: Matthew 5:39
Tuesday June 6, 2023
ST NORBERT, BP. (Opt. Mem)
Office: Psalter Week 1
Mass and Preface of the day or Memorial
Vestment: Green/White
Today’s Rosary: The Sorrowful Mysteries
-FIRST READING-
I went to physicians, but they did not help me.
A reading from the Book of Tobit (Tobit2:9-14)
On [Pentecost] night I, Tobit, returned from burying the dead, I went into my courtyard and slept by the wall of the courtyard, and my face was uncovered because of the heat. I did not know that there were sparrows on the wall and their fresh droppings fell into my open eyes and white films formed on my eyes. I went to physicians to be healed, but the more they treated me with ointments, the more my vision was obscured by the white films, until I became completely blind. For four years I remained unable to see. All my kindred were sorry for me, and Ahikar took care of me for two years until he went to Elymais. Then my wife Anna earned money at women’s work. She used to send the product to the owners, and they paid her wages. One day, the seventh of Dystrus, when she cut off a piece she had woven and sent it to the owners, they paid her full wages and they also gave her a kid. When she returned to me it began to bleat. So I called her and said to her, “Where did you get the kid? It is not stolen, is it? Return it to the owners; for it is not right to eat what is stolen.” And she said, “It was given to me as a gift in addition to my wages.” But I did not believe her, and told her to return it to the owners; and I blushed for her. Then she replied to me, “Where are your charities and your righteous deeds? You seem to know everything!”
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Psalm 112:1b-2.7-8.9 (R. see 7b)
R/. With a firm heart, the just man trusts in the Lord.
Or: Alleluia.
Blessed the man who fears the Lord,
who takes great delight in his commandments.
His descendants shall be powerful on earth;
the generation of the upright will be blest. R/.
He has no fear of evil news;
with a firm heart, he trusts in the Lord.
With a steadfast heart he will not fear;
he will see the downfall of his foes. R/.
R/. With a firm heart, the just man trusts in the Lord.
Or: Alleluia.
Open-handed, he gives to the poor;
his justice stands firm forever.
His might shall be exalted in glory. R/.
ALLELUIA Ephesians 1:17-18
May the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ enlighten the eyes of our hearts that we might know what is the hope to which he has called us. Alleluia.
-GOSPEL-
“Render to Caesar the things that are Caesar s’, and to God the things that are God’s.”
A reading from the holy Gospel according to Mark (Mark 12: 13-17)
At that time: They sent to Jesus some of the Pharisees and some of the Herodians, to entrap him in his talk. And they came and said to him, “Teacher, we know that you are true, and care for no man; for you do not regard the position of men, but truly teach the way of God. Is it lawful to pay taxes to Caesar, or not? Should we pay them, or should we not?” But knowing their hypocrisy, he said to them, “Why put me to the test? Bring me a coin, and let me look at it.” And they brought one. And he said to them, “Whose likeness and inscription is this?” They said to him, “Caesar’s.” Jesus said to them, “Render to Caesar the things that are Caesar’s, and to God the things that are God’s.” And they were amazed at him.
The Gospel of the Lord.
TODAY’S REFLECTION
To give Caesar what belongs to Caesar does not advise us to separate our political and civic life from our faith. Our civic responsibilities and religious obligations are not intrinsically opposed to each other. Our Christian faith must permeate everything we do, including our lives and duties as citizens. Our faith requires that we be responsible citizens. The Lord is reminding us that we do have civil obligations. And we must perform them with the same care that we give to our religious duties. How we serve the state is a way of witnessing to the kingdom.
PERSONAL DEVOTIONAL
This is all that I have learnt: God made us plain and simple, but we have made ourselves very complicated. Only the wise know what things really mean. Wisdom makes them smile and makes their frowns disappear - Ecclesiastes 7:29, 8:1
- Ask God to clean and wash your spiritual attire with the Blood of the lamb.
- Lord give me the grace to know you more and recognize you in my daily dealings
Let Us Pray
Lord, I praise you for your salvation and the fellowship of your people. Show me who I can pray for and invite to know you. Amen.
Wednesday June 7, 2023
Ordinary Time (9)
Office: Psalter Week 1
Mass and Preface of the day
Vestment: Green
Today’s Rosary: The Glorious Mysteries
-FIRST READING-
“The prayer ‘of both was heard in the presence of the glory of God.”
A reading from the Book of Tobit (Tobit 3:1-11a.16-17a)
In those days: in my grief I wept, and I prayed in anguish, saying, “Righteous are you, O Lord; all your deeds are just and all your ways are mercy and truth, and you render true and righteous judgement for ever. And now, O Lord, remember me and look favourably upon me; do not punish me for my sins and for my unwitting offences and those which my fathers committed before you. For we disobeyed your commandments, and you gave us over to plunder, captivity, and death; you made us the talk, the byword, and an object of reproach in all the nations among which you have dispersed us. And now your many judgements are true in exacting penalty from me for my sins and those of my fathers, because we did not keep your commandments. For we did not walk in truth before you. And now deal with me according to your pleasure; command my spirit to be taken up, that I may be released from the face of the earth and become dust. For it is better for me to die than to live, because I have heard false reproaches, and great is the sorrow within me. Command that I now be released from my distress; release me to go to the eternal abode; and do not, O Lord, turn your face away from me. For it is better for me to die than to see so much distress in my life and to listen to such insults.” On the same day, at Ecbatana in Media, it also happened that Sarah, the daughter of Raguel, was reproached by her father’s maids, because she had been given to seven husbands, and the evil demon Asmodeus had slain each of them before he had been with her as his wife. So the maids said to her, “You are the one who kills your husbands! See, you already have had seven and have had no benefit from any of them. Why do you beat us? Because your husbands are dead? Go with them! May we never see a son or daughter of yours!” On that day she was deeply grieved in spirit and wept. When she had gone up to her father’s upper room, she intended to hang herself. But she thought it over and said, “Never shall they reproach my father, saying to him, ‘You only had one beloved daughter but she hanged herself because of her distress.’ And I shall bring his old age down in sorrow to the grave. It is better for me not to hang myself, but to pray the Lord that I may die and not listen to these reproaches any more.” At that same time, with hands outstretched towards the window, she prayed and said, “Blessed are you, O Lord, merciful God, and blessed is your holy and honoured name.” At that very moment, the prayer of both was heard in the presence of the glory of the great God. And Raphael was sent to heal the two of them.
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Psalm 25:2-3.4-5ab.6 and 7bc.8-9 (R. 1)
R/. To you, O Lord, I lift my soul.
In you, O my God, I have trusted;
let me not be put to shame;
let not my enemies exult over me.
Let none who hope in you be put to shame;
but shamed are those who wantonly break faith. R/.
O Lord, make me know your ways.
Teach me your paths.
Guide me in your truth, and teach me;
for you are the God of my salvation. R/.
R/. To you, O Lord, I lift my soul.
Remember your compassion, O Lord,
and your merciful love,
for they are from of old.
In your merciful love remember me,
because of your goodness, O Lord. R/.
Good and upright is the Lord;
he shows the way to sinners.
He guides the humble in right judgement;
to the humble he teaches his way. R/.
ALLELUIA John 11:25a.26
Alleluia. I am the resurrection and the life, says the Lord; he who believes in me shall never die. Alleluia.
-GOSPEL-
“He is not God of the dead, but of the living.”
A reading from the holy Gospel according to Mark (Mark 12: 18-27)
At that time: Sadducees came to Jesus, who say that there is no resurrection; and they asked him a question, saying, “Teacher, Moses wrote for us that if a man’s brother dies and leaves a wife, but leaves no child, the man must take the wife, and raise up children for his brother. There were seven brothers; the first took a wife, and when he died left no children; and the second took her, and died, leaving no children; and the third likewise; and the seven left no children. Last of all the woman also died. In the resurrection whose wife will she be? For the seven had her as wife.” Jesus said to them, “Is not this why you are wrong, that you know neither the Scriptures nor the power of God? For when they rise from the dead, they neither marry nor are given in marriage, but are like angels in heaven. And as for the dead being raised, have you not read in the book of Moses, in the passage about the bush, how God said to him, ‘I am the God of Abraham, and the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob’? He is not God of the dead, but of the living; you are quite wrong.”
The Gospel of the Lord
TODAY’S REFLECTION
Overcome by grief and remorse, Tobit prays “to be delivered from such anguish.” Meanwhile, hundreds of miles away in Media, Sarah prays for deliverance from an actual devil, Asmodeus who has “killed off” her seven husbands. God answers both prayers through the angel Raphael, who is sent to guide Tobit’s son Tobiah to Sarah. To mock Jesus, the Sadducees, who reduced the theory of resurrection to an old wives’ tale, invent another widow with seven husbands: “At the resurrection, whose wife will she be? But the resurrection is no joke; Jesus proves it by quoting the voice in the burning bush: “I am the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob,” All three are referred to as still living. Life in heaven is however not a continuation of life on earth; it is a life qualitatively different from life on earth. We will be like the angels.
PERSONAL DEVOTIONAL
- Dear Lord, I thank you for this day, I thank you for my being able to see and hear this morning. I am blessed because you are a forgiving and an understanding God.
- You have done so much for me and kept on blessing me. Grant me the grace Father, not to offend you or my neighbour today. When the enemy of my soul comes to seduce me to sin against you, please help me to run to your Son Jesus in the Blessed Sacrament
Let Us Pray
Please keep me safe from all dangers and harm. Help me to start this day with a new attitude and plenty of gratitude. Let me make the best of this day with a clear mind, so that I can hear from you. Please broaden my mind that I can accept all things. Let me not whine and whimper over things that I have no control over. Moreover, this is the best response when I am pushed beyond my limits. I know that when I cannot pray, you listen to my heart. Continue to use me O Lord to do your will. Please Lord continue to use me that I may be a blessing to others especially those who are hurt and do not have any person to help them. Keep me strong that I may help the weak. Keep me uplifted that I may have words of encouragement for others.
Thursday June 8, 2023
Weekday Ordinary Time (9)
Office: Psalter Week 1
Mass and Preface of the day
Vestment: Green
Today’s Rosary: The Luminous Mysteries
-FIRST READING-
“Grant that I may find mercy and may grow old together with her.”
A reading from the Book of Tobit (Tobit 6:9- 12; 7:1 cd.9- 12.1 6; 8: 1.4-9a)
In those days: when he entered Media and was already approaching Ecbatana, Raphael said to the young man, “Brother Tobias!” “Here I am,” he answered. Then Raphael said to him, “We must stay this night in the home of Raguel. He is your relative, and he has a daughter named Sarah. He has no male heir and no daughter except Sarah only, and you, as next of kin to her; have before all other men a hereditary claim on her. Also, it is right for you to inherit her father’s possessions. Moreover, the girl is sensible, brave, and very beautiful, and her father is a good man.” And they found Raguel sitting beside the courtyard door. They greeted him first, and he replied, “Joyous greetings, brothers; welcome and good health!” Then he brought them into his house. Then Raguel killed a ram from the flock and received them very warmly. When they had bathed and washed themselves and had reclined to dine, Tobias said to Raphael, “Brother Azarius, ask Raguel to give me my kinswoman Sarah.” But Raguel overheard it and said to Tobias, “Eat, drink, and be merry; for no one except you, brother, has the right to marry my daughter Sarah. Likewise, I am not at liberty to give her to any other man than yourself, because you are my nearest relative. But let me explain the true situation to you. I have given my daughter to seven men of our kinsmen, and when each came to her he died in the night. But for the present, my child, eat and drink, and the Lord will act on behalf of you both.” But Tobias said, “I will eat nothing here until you make a binding agreement with me.” So Raguel said, “I will do so. She is given to you in accordance with the decree in the book of Moses, and it has been decreed from heaven that she be given to you. Take your kinswoman; from now on you are her brother and she is your sister. She is given to you from today and for ever, May the Lord of heaven, my child, guide and prosper you both this night and grant you mercy and peace.” And Raguel called his wife Edna and said to her, “Sister, make up the other room and take her into it.” When they had finished eating and drinking they wanted to retire; so they took the young man and brought him into the bedroom. When the door was shut and the two were alone, Tobias got up from the bed and, said, “Sister, get up, and let us pray and implore our Lord that he grants us mercy and safety.” And they began to say, “Blessed are you, O God of our fathers, and blessed be your holy and glorious name for ever. Let the heavens and all your creatures bless you. You made Adam and gave him Eve his wife as a helper and support. From them the race of mankind has sprung. You said, ‘It is not good that the man should be alone; let us make a helper for him like himself.’ And now, O Lord, I am not taking this sister of mine because of lust, but with sincerity. Grant that I may find mercy and may grow old together with her.” And they both said, “Amen, amen.” Then they both went to sleep for the night.
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Psalm 128: 1-2.3.4-5 (R. see 1 a)
R/. Blessed are all who fear the Lord.
Blessed are all who fear the Lord,
and walk in his ways!
By the labour of your hands you shall eat.
You will be blessed and prosper. R/.
Your wife like a fruitful vine
in the heart of your house;
your children like shoots of the olive
around your table. R/.
R/. Blessed are all who fear the Lord.
Indeed thus shall be blessed
the man who fears the Lord.
May the Lord bless you from Sion.
May you see Jerusalem prosper
all the days of your life! R.
ALLELUIA - 2 Timothy 1:10
Alleluia. Our Saviour Christ Jesus abolished death and brought life and immortality to light through the Gospel. Alleluia.
-GOSPEL-
“There is no other commandment greater than these.”
A reading from the holy Gospel according to Mark (Mark 12:28b-34)
At that time: One of the scribes came up and asked Jesus, “Which commandment is the first of all?” Jesus answered, “The first is, ‘Hear, O Israel: The Lord our God, the Lord is one; and you shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your mind, and with all your strength.’ The second is this, ‘You shall love your neighbour as yourself.’ There is no other commandment greater than these.” And the scribe said to him, “You are right, Teacher; you have truly said that he is one, and there is no other but he; and to love him with all the heart, and with all the understanding, and with all the strength, and to love one’s neighbour as oneself, is much more than all whole burnt offerings and sacrifices.” And when Jesus saw that he answered wisely, he said to him, “You are not far from the kingdom of God.” And after that no one dared to ask him any question.
The Gospel of the Lord.
TODAY’S REFLECTION
We cannot love God without loving our neighbor, and in loving our neighbor we are at the same time loving God. Yet the two commandments are not on the same level; one comes first and the other second. It is the love of God which is to be the primary love in our lives. We owe the greatest devotion to God, who, as revealed in Jesus, is to be our greatest love Jesus says in another passage, “Seek first the kingdom of God.” If we are absorbed in a loving relationship with God, it will overflow into love of all those whom God loves, and our love for other people will reflect something of God’s love for them.
PERSONAL DEVOTIONAL
Three times I prayed to the Lord about this and asked him to take it away. But his answer was: My grace is all you need, for my power is greatest when you are weak 2 Corinthians 12:8, 9
- Tell Jesus about the heavy loads crushing you.
- Ask for mercy for the times you took your troubles to other gods.
- Invite Jesus into your life and family.
Let Us Pray
Mary my Mother of Perpetual Help, with trust in you as my spiritual mother in the family of Christ Jesus, I implore your maternal intercession, inspired me by the example of your life and faith in the name of Jesus, I think of you at that moment when, full of faith and trust, you accepted God’s call to be the mother of His Son. Help me, your child, to accept with joy my own calling in life in the name of Jesus. When you learned that your cousin Elizabeth was in need you immediately went to serve her and offer your help. Help me, like you, to be concerned for others in the name of Jesus. I think of you, Mother, at the foot of the cross. Your heart must have bled to see your Son in agony. But your Joy was great when he rose from the dead, victorious over the powers of evil. Mother of sorrows, help me through the trials and disappointments of life. Help me not to lose heart. May I share with you and your Son the joy of having courageously faced all the challenges of life in the name of Jesus, Amen
Friday June 9, 2023
Saint Ephrem of Syria, Deac. D. (Opt Mem)
Office: Psalter Week 1
Mass and Preface of the day or Memorial
Vestment: Green/White
Today’s Rosary: The Sorrowful Mysteries
-FIRST READING-
God himself has afflicted me, but here I see my son Tobias.
A reading from the Book of Tobit (Tobit 11:5-17)
In those days: Anna sat looking intently down the road for her son. And she caught sight of him coming, and said to his father, “Behold, your son is coming, and so is the man who went with him!” Raphael said to Tobias, before they approached his father, “I know that his eyes will be opened. Smear the gall of the fish on his eyes, and the medicine will cause the white films to fall away. And your father will regain his sight and see the light.” Then Anna ran to meet them, and embraced her son, and said to him, “I have seen you, my child; now I am ready to die.” And she wept. Tobit got up, and came stumbling out through the courtyard door. But his son ran to him with the gall of the fish in his hand, and holding him firmly, he blew into his eyes, saying, “Take courage, Father.” With this he applied the medicine on his eyes. Next with both his hands, he peeled off the white films from the corners of his eyes. Then he saw his son and embraced him, and he wept and said, “Here I see my son, the light of my eyes!” Then he said, “Blessed be God, and blessed be his great name, and blessed be all his holy angels. May his holy name be blessed throughout all the ages. Though he afflicted me, he has had mercy on me. Now I see my son Tobias!”
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Psalm 146:1b.2.6c.7.8-9a.9bc-10 (R. 1b)
R/. My soul, give praise to the Lord!
Or: Alleluia.
My soul, give praise to the Lord;
I will praise the Lord all my life,
sing praise to my God while I live. R/.
It is the Lord who preserves fidelity forever,
who does justice to those who are oppressed.
It is he who gives bread to the hungry,
the Lord Who sets prisoners free. R/.
R/. My soul, give praise to the Lord!
Or: Alleluia.
It is the Lord who opens the eyes of the blind,
the Lord who raises up those who are bowed down.
It is the Lord who loves the just,
the Lord who protects the stranger. R/.
The Lord upholds the orphan and the widow,
but thwarts the path of the wicked.
The Lord will reign forever,
the God of Sion from age to age. R/.
ALLELUIA John 14:23
Alleluia. If a man loves me, he will keep my word, says the Lord; and my Father will love him, and we will come to him. Alleluia.
-GOSPEL-
“How can the scribes say that the Christ is the son of David?”
A reading from the holy Gospel according to Mark (Mark 12:35-37)
At that time: As Jesus taught in the temple, he said, “How can the scribes say that the Christ is the son of David? David himself, inspired by the Holy Spirit, declared, ‘The Lord said to my Lord, Sit at my right hand, till I put your enemies under your feet.’ David himself calls him Lord; so how is he his son?” And the great throng heard him gladly.
The Gospel of the Lord
TODAY’S REFLECTION
In this touching homecoming scene, the blind Tobit is healed and gives thinks. The tragedy of his blindness has enabled him to appreciate the gift of sight. The Book of Tobit draws a lesson from his situation, which is: that faith can turn tragedy to a moment of insight. Tobit’s faith, despite his blindness, gave him a deeper insight into himself and into God. Through faith we also can surrender to God that which we have no control of. We too can turn our pain into a vehicle of holiness, just as pressure can turn coal into diamonds. The facts of life and death are neutral, and depending on how we respond to them, we can draw something precious out of our negative circumstances.
PERSONAL DEVOTIONAL
Anyone who is joined to Christ is a new being; the old is gone, the new has come – 2 Corinthians 5:17
- Reject every form of life that still makes you appear as a hypocrite before the Lord.
Let Us Pray
Prayer of St. Benedict
Gracious and holy Father, please give me: intellect to understand you, reason to discern you; diligence to seek you; wisdom to find you; a spirit to know you; a heart to meditate upon you; ears to hear you; eyes to see you; a tongue to proclaim you; a way of life pleasing to you; patience to wait for you; and perseverance to look for you. Grant me: a perfect end, your holy presence. A blessed resurrection, and life everlasting.
Saturday June 10, 2023
Office: Psalter Week 1
Mass and Preface of the day or BVM
Vestment: Green
Today’s Rosary: The Joyful Mysteries
Vespers 1 of the Solemnity of Corpus Christi
-FIRST READING-
“And now give thanks to God, for I am ascending to him.”
A reading from the Book of Tobit (Tobit 12:1.5-15.20)
In those days: Tobit called his son Tobias and said to him, “My son, see to the wages of the man who went with you; and he must also be given more.” So he called the angel and said to him, “Take for your wages half of all that you two have brought back, and farewell.” Then the angel called the two of them privately and said to them: “Praise God and give thanks to him; exalt him and give thanks to him in the presence of all the living for what he has done for you. It is good to praise God and to exalt his name, worthily declaring the works of God. Do not be slow to give him thanks. It is good to guard the secret of a king, but gloriously to reveal the works of God, and with fitting honour to acknowledge him. Do good, and evil will not overtake you. Prayer is good when accompanied by fasting, almsgiving, and righteousness. A little with righteousness is better than much with wrongdoing. It is better to give alms than to treasure up gold. For almsgiving delivers from death, and it will purge away every sin. Those who perform deeds of charity and of righteousness will have fullness of life; but those who commit sin are the enemies of their own lives. I will now declare the whole truth to you and I will not conceal anything from you. I have said, ‘It is good to guard the secret of a king, but gloriously to reveal the works of God.’ And so, when you and your daughter-in-law Sarah prayed, I brought a reminder of your prayer before the Holy One; and when you buried the dead, I was likewise present with you. When you did not hesitate to rise and leave your dinner in order to go and lay out the dead, I was sent to test you. So now God sent me to heal you and your daughter-in- law Sarah. I am Raphael, one of the seven holy angels who present the prayers of the saints and enter into the presence of the glory of the Lord. And now bless the Lord upon the earth and give thanks to God, for I am ascending to him who sent me. Write in a book everything that has happened to you.”
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Tobit 13:1b and 2.3-4a.6efgh.6ij.8 (R. 1b)
R/. Blessed is God, who lives for ever.
Blessed be God, who lives for ever.
For he afflicts, and he shows mercy;
he leads down to Hades, and brings up again,
and there is no one who can escape his hand. R/.
Acknowledge him before the nations,
O sons of Israel;
for he has scattered us among them.
Make his greatness known there. R/.
But see what he will do with you;
give thanks to him with your full voice.
Praise the Lord of righteousness,
and exalt the King of the ages. R/.
R/. Blessed is God, who lives for ever.
I give him thanks in the land of my captivity,
and I show his power and majesty
to a nation of sinners. R/.
Bless the Lord, all you his chosen ones,
all of you, praise his glory.
Celebrate days of joy, and give thanks to him. R.
ALLELUIA Matthew 5:3
Alleluia. Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Alleluia.
-GOSPEL-
“This poor widow has put in more than all the others.”
A reading from the holy Gospel according to Mark (Mark 12:38-44)
At that time: In his teaching Jesus said, “Beware of the scribes, who like to go about in long robes, and to have salutations in the market places and the best seats in the synagogues and the places of honour at feasts, who devour widows’ houses and for a pretence make long prayers. They will receive the greater condemnation.” And he sat down opposite the treasury, and watched the multitude putting money into the treasury. Many rich people put in large sums. And a poor widow came, and put in two copper coins, which make a penny. And he called his disciples to him, and said to them, “Truly, I say to you, this poor widow has put in more than all those who are contributing to the treasury. For they all contributed out of their abundance; but she out of her poverty has put in everything she had, her whole living.”
The Gospel of the Lord.
TODAY’S REFLECTION
The story of the woman in the Gospel passage bears out the truth of the statement in the first reading: “A little with righteousness is better than much with wrongdoing.” It is course proper to praise and show gratitude to God for all He has done for us. God owns all (Ps 24), even our very selves, and He expects us to give all we have, not for human recognition, but because it is the right thing to do. We must never pride ourselves that we can give back to God all that He has given us, but we can at least do our best to show how grateful we are for all He has done and all that He is to us. As we do this, we must avoid hypocrisy. It only leads to our condemnation. Give your very best to God and the best will come back to you. Seek not the praises of men. The Lord, who sees in secret, will reward you.
PERSONAL DEVOTIONAL
I Have the strength to face all conditions by the power that Christ gives me - Philippians 4:13
- I adore you Lord and I worship you. I give you praise for it is your desire that I should not perish.
- Be merciful to me O Lord, for the number of times I have not operated in your standards.
- O Lord, help me to accept decisions in favour of your standard.
- Lord, do not make me use my position to work against your standards.
Let Us Pray
I come before thy throne of grace, seeking your divine guidance and direction concerning my life this day. Give me the courage to trust you and to follow the path of faith and righteousness as you take the lead as my shepherd. Lord Jesus my shepherd, as I walk in this journey of life, be my rock and fortress, show me favour and guide me in my entire affairs, even in the midst of storm let your hand hold me firm to yourself preserve me in my going out and my coming in, O Angels and Saints of God, grant me your fraternal assistance that I may persevere in following the footsteps of Jesus our Lord and Shepherd both now and forever in Jesus name I pray – Amen
Memory verse: 2 Chronicles 7:14
Sunday June 11, 2023
THE MOST HOLY BODY AND BLOOD OF JESUS CHRIST (CORPUS CHRISTI)
(Solemnity)
V1 -, V2 -, V3 -, R1 -, R2 -, R3 -
Office: Proper, Te Deum
Mas prop. Gloria. Creed.
Preface of the Corpus Christi
Optional Sequence: Lauda Sion
Vestment: White
Today’s Rosary: The Glorious Mysteries
Vespers II of the Solemnity of Corpus Christi
Kindly note: NO PROCESSION WITH THE BLESSED SACRAMENT. PROCESSION IS MOVED TO THE LAST SUNDAY OF THE YEAR: THE SOLEMNITY OF CHRIST THE KING
THEME OF THE SUNDAY: Take and Eat!
The three readings today help us to reflect on the meaning of the Eucharist. The first speaks of manna, an unexpected gift of God that gave life to the people of Israel during their stay in the desert. The gospel presents a gift immensely superior to manna, it is the bread that gives eternal life. To eat such bread means to want to be identified with Christ. The second reading tells us that the Eucharist is not bread to be eaten alone. It is broken and shared as a means and sign of unity.
ENTRANCE ANTIPHON
He fed them with the finest wheat, and satisfied them with honey from the rock.
COLLECT
O God, who in this wonderful Sacrament have left us a memorial of your Passion, grant us, we pray, so to revere the sacred mysteries of your Body and Blood that we may always experience in ourselves the fruits of your redemption. Who live and reign with God the Father in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, forever and ever.
-FIRST READING-
“He fed you with manna, which you did not know, nor did your fathers
A reading from the Book of Deuteronomy (Deuteronomy 8:2-3.14b-16a)
Moses spoke to the people, saying, “You shall remember all the way which the Lord your God has led you these forty years in the wilderness, that he might humble you, testing you to know what was in your heart, whether you would keep his commandments, or not. And he humbled you and let you hunger and fed you with manna, which you did not know, nor did your fathers know; that he might make you know that man does not live by bread alone, but that man lives by everything that proceeds out of the mouth of the Lord. “And you shall remember the Lord your God, who brought you out of the land of Egypt, out of the house of bondage, who led you through the great and terrible wilderness, with its fiery serpents and scorpions and thirsty ground where there was no water, who brought you water out of the flinty rock, who fed you in the wilderness with manna which your fathers did not know.”
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Psalm 147: 12-13.14- I 5.19-20 (R. 12a)
R/. O Jerusalem, glorify the Lord!
Or: Alleluia.
O Jerusalem, glorify the Lord!
O Sion, praise your God!
He has strengthened the bars of your gates;
he has blessed your children within you. R/.
He established peace on your borders;
he gives you your fill of finest wheat.
He sends out his word to the earth,
and swiftly runs his command. R/.
R/. O Jerusalem, glorify the Lord!
Or: Alleluia.
He reveals his word to Jacob;
to Israel, his decrees and judgements.
He has not dealt thus with other nations;
he has not taught them his judgements. R/.
-SECOND READING-
“Because there is one bread, we who are many are one body.”
A reading from the first Letter of Saint Paul to the Corinthians 1 Corinthians 10: 16- 17
Brethren: The cup of blessing which we bless, is it not a participation in the blood of Christ? The bread which we break, is it not a participation in the body of Christ? Because there is one bread, we who are many are one body, for we all partake of the one bread.
The word of the Lord
The following sequence, Lauda Sion, is optional before the Alleluia verse. The sequence may be used either in its entirety or in the shorter form, beginning with the words (Behold the bread).
SEQUENCE
Zion, praise your Saviour.
Praise your leader and shepherd in hymns and canticles.
Praise him as much as you can, for he is beyond all praising
and you will never be able to praise him as he merits.
But today a theme worthy of particular praise
is put before us — the living and life- giving bread
that, without any doubt,
was given to the Twelve at table during the holy supper.
Therefore let our praise be full and resounding
and our soul’s rejoicing full of delight and beauty,
for this is the festival day
to commemorate the first institution of this table.
At this table of the new King,
the new law’s new Pasch puts an end to the old Pasch.
The new displaces the old, reality the shadow and light the darkness.
Christ wanted what he did at the supper
to be repeated in his memory.
And so we, in accordance with his holy directions
consecrate bread and wine to be salvation’s Victim.
Christ’s followers know by faith that bread is changed into his flesh and wine into his blood.
Man cannot understand this, cannot perceive it;
but a lively faith affirms that the change,
which is outside the natural course of things, takes place.
Under the different species,
which are now signs only and not their own reality,
there lie hid wonderful realities. His body is our food, his blood our
And yet Christ remains entire under each species.
The communicant receives the complete Christ —
uncut, unbroken and undivided. Whether one receive or a thousand, the one receives as much as the thousand.
Nor is Christ diminished by being received.
The good and the wicked alike receive him,
but with the unlike destiny of life or death.
To the wicked it is death, but life to the good.
See how different is the result, though each receives the same.
Last of all, if the sacrament is broken, have no doubt.
Remember there is as much in a fragment
as in an unbroken host.
There is no division of the reality, but only a breaking of the sign; nor does the breaking diminish the condition or size
of the One hidden under the sign.
Behold, the bread of angels is become the pilgrim’s food; truly it is bread for the sons, and is not to be cast to dogs.
It was prefigured in type
when Isaac was brought as an offering, when a lamb was appointed for the Pasch
and when manna was given to the Jews of old.
Jesus, good shepherd and true bread, have mercy on us; feed us and guard us. Grant that we find happiness in the land of the living.
You know all things, can do all things, and feed us here on earth.
Make us your guests in heaven,
co-heirs with you and companions of heaven’s citizens.
Amen. Alleluia
ALLELUIA John 6:51
Alleluia. I am the living bread which came down from heaven, says the Lord; if any one eats this bread he will live for ever. Alleluia.
-GOSPEL-
“My flesh is food indeed, and my blood is drink indeed.”
A reading from the holy Gospel according to John (John 6:51-58)
At that time: Jesus said to the crowds of the Jews, “I am the living bread which came down from heaven; if any one eats of this bread, he will live for ever; and the bread which I shall give for the life of the world is my flesh.” The Jews then disputed among themselves, saying, “How can this man give us his flesh to eat?” So Jesus said to them, “Truly, truly, I say to you, unless you eat the flesh of the Son of man and drink his blood, you have no life in you; he who eats my flesh and drinks my blood has eternal life, and I will raise him up at the last day. For my flesh is food indeed, and my blood is drink indeed. He who eats my flesh and drinks my blood abides in me, and I in him. As the living Father sent me, and I live because of the Father, so he who eats me will live because of me. This is the bread which came down from heaven, not such as the fathers ate and died; he who eats this bread will live for ever.”
The Gospel of the Lord.
PRAYER OF THE FAITHFUL
Celebrant:
The Lord Jesus gave us the bread of life and the cup of eternal salvation, thereby providing our sustenance for the journey through life. Let us pray that we may properly dispose ourselves to receive these precious gifts.
FOR THE LEADERS OF THE CHURCH: that our Pope, Bishops and priests, called to celebrate the memorial of Christ’s passion, may be filled with zeal to protect the sanctity of Christ’s Body and blood. We pray O lord.
FOR THOSE IN CIVIL AUTHORITY: that, in imitation of our Lord who gave himself for our salvation, they may willingly serve those entrusted to their care with all the resources at their disposal. We pray O Lord.
FOR OUR WORSHIPPING COMMUNITY: that all Catholics who partake in the Eucharistic meal may manifest, through their lives, the unity which is exemplified by it. We pray O Lord.
FOR THOSE WHO DO NOT RECEIVE OUR LORD IN HOLY COMMUNION: that they may seek reconciliation with the church, so that they can again partake in the Eucharistic banquet. We pray O Lord.
For other intentions: (the sick, church projects or other activities).
For the dead, especially those of our parish community and family members: that they may find eternal rest with the Lord. We pray O Lord.
We pray in silence for our private intentions.
Celebrant:
God our Father, in the sacrament of Christ’s Body and Blood, you left us a memorial of his passion. May we who continue to receive this sacrament be conformed to you and live in union with you. Through Christ our Lord.
R/. Amen.
TODAY’S REFLECTION
In spite of the presence of numerous varieties of food that tickle our taste buds, they cannot satisfy our hunger forever and give us eternal life. Only Jesus Christ, our food and drink, can satisfy our hunger and quench our thirst forever. Blessed Alexandrina Maria da Costa of Balasar, Portugal, fed on the Eucharist alone for more than thirteen years! But today the Eucharist, for many, is a lifeless piece of bread. Several Catholics around the world disbelieve in the real presence of Jesus in the Eucharist. The Devil dreads the presence of the Eucharist and we who claim to be believers and followers of Jesus end up desecrating the Eucharist by our sinful way of life.
John Ronald Reuel Tolkien, an English writer and university professor wrote, “Out of the darkness of my life, so much frustrated, I put before you the one great thing to love on earth: the Blessed Sacrament… there you will find romance, glory, honour, fidelity, and the true way of all you loves on earth…. The only cure for sagging or fainting faith is communion. Though always itself, perfect and complete and inviolate, the Blessed Sacrament does not operate completely and once for all in any of us. Like the act of faith it must be continuous and grow by exercise. Frequency is of the highest effect. Seven times a week is more than seven times at intervals”.
Today's Saint and Quote
SAINT BARNABAS, Apostle Memorial
Joseph, a native of Cyprus, was converted to the faith shortly after Pentecost and, after giving up his possessions, he received the name of Barnabas (son of consolation) because of his helpful and optimistic nature. He assisted St Paul in his ministry. Tradition says that Barnabas was martyred in Cyprus during the 60s.
St Paula Frassinetti – June 11th
Our Lord wills that you cling to Him alone! If your faith were greater how much more peaceful you would be even when great trials surround and oppress you.
PERSONAL DEVOTIONAL
Thus says the Lord, "Call to me, and I will answer you; I will tell you wonderful and marvelous things that you know nothing about" Jeremiah 33:3
- Lord, I come back to you. I renounce every sin of my life. I return from my life of wasted years. I accept Jesus as my personal Lord and Saviour.
- Father, revive the spirit of fear of God and self-control in me in Jesus name.
Let Us Pray
In the name of Jesus, I come before thy throne of grace, seeking your divine guidance and direction concerning my life this day. Give me the courage to trust you and to follow the path of faith and righteousness as you take the lead as my shepherd. Lord Jesus my shepherd, as I walk in this journey of life, be my Rock and Fortress, show me favour and guide me in my entire affairs, even in the midst of storm let your hand hold me firm to yourself preserve me in my going out and my coming in, O Angels and Saints of God grant me your fraternal assistance that I may persevere in following the footsteps of Jesus our Lord and Shepherd both now and forever – Amen
Monday June 12, 2023
Weekday 10
Office: Psalter Week 2
Mass and Preface of the day
Vestment: Green
Today’s Rosary: The Joyful Mysteries
-FIRST READING-
God comforts us that we may be able to comfort those who are in any affliction.
The beginning of the second Letter of Saint Paul to the Corinthians (2 Corinthians 1:1-7)
Paul, an apostle of Christ Jesus by the will of God, and Timothy our brother. To the Church of God which is at Corinth, with all the saints who are in the whole of Achaia: Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies and God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our affliction, so that we may be able to comfort those who are in any affliction, with the comfort with which we ourselves are comforted by God. For as we share abundantly in Christ’s sufferings, so through Christ we share abundantly in comfort too. If we are afflicted, it is for your comfort and salvation, and if we are comforted, it is for your comfort, which you experience when you patiently endure the same sufferings that we suffer. Our hope for you is unshaken; for we know that as you share in our sufferings, you will also share in our comfort.
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Psalm 34:2-3.4-5.6-7.5-9 (R. 9a)
R/. Taste and see that the Lord is good.
I will bless the Lord at all times,
praise of him is always in my mouth.
In the Lord my soul shall make its boast;
the humble shall hear and be glad. R/.
Glorify the Lord with me;
together let us praise his name.
I sought the Lord, and he answered me;
from all my terrors he set me free. R/.
R/. Taste and see that the Lord is good.
Look towards him and be radiant;
let your faces not be abashed.
This lowly one called; the Lord heard,
and rescued him from all his distress. R/.
The angel of the Lord is encamped
around those who fear him, to rescue them.
Taste and see that the Lord is good.
Blessed the man who seeks refuge in him. R/.
ALLELUIA Matthew 5: 12a
Alleluia. Rejoice and be glad, for your reward is great in heaven.
Alleluia.
-GOSPEL-
“Blessed are the poor in spirit.”
A reading from the holy Gospel according to Matthew (Matthew 5:1-12)
At that time: Seeing the crowds, Jesus went up on the mountain, and when he sat down his disciples came to him. And he opened his mouth and taught them, saying: “Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.” “Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted.” “Blessed are the meek, for they shall inherit the earth.” “Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they shall be satisfied.” “Blessed are the merciful, for they shall obtain mercy.” “Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God.” “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons of God.” “Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness’ sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.” “Blessed are you when men revile you and persecute you and utter all kinds of evil against you falsely on my account. Rejoice and be glad, for your reward is great in heaven, for so men persecuted the prophets who were before you.”
The Gospel of the Lord.
BLESSINGS FOR THE NEW WEEK
Lord in your name we shall step out of our homes today to go and do our work and activities. Be with us and bless our efforts.
Thank you for the gift of this new week. Thank you for the gift of life. Thank you for the new opportunity to do your will. Lead us in the right path and may your will be done in our lives. May your glory shield us from every harm and let our going out and coming in find favour in your sight.
Give us the grace to show charity and help those in need as much as we can and in our times of need, may your divine assistance always be available to lift us up. Amen.
Dear friend, it is a new day and a new week. I wish you the very best in all that you shall do. May God, bless you immensely, lift you up once again and may good things come your way. Be kind, be charitable, be merciful and work hard for it is well with you.
May God remember you and pour out his blessings upon you in abundance. Amen. If God sends you help when you need it, please try to help others who are in need of your help too.
PERSONAL DEVOTIONAL
Praise the Lord! Praise the Lord, my soul! I will praise him as long as I live, I will sing to my God all my life. Psalm 146:1, 2
- Thank God for the gift of a new day
- Ask for God’s pardon for the times you have doubted the goodness and capability of Jesus the Good Shepherd.
Let Us Pray,
Lord Jesus Christ, take all my freedom, my memory, my understanding, and my will. All that I have and cherish you have given me. I surrender it all to be guided by your will. Your love and your grace are wealth enough for me. Give me these, Lord Jesus, and I ask for nothing more. Amen.
Memory verse: 1 Corinthians 5:6
Tuesday June 13, 2023
ST ANTHONY OF PADUA, P.D. (MEMORIAL)
Office: Memorial, Psalter Week 2
Mass and Preface of the Memorial
Vestment: White
Today’s Rosary: The Sorrowful Mysteries
-FIRST READING-
Jesus was not Yes and No,’ but in him if is always Yes.
A reading from the second Letter of Saint Paul to the Corinthians (2 Corinthians 1:18-22)
Brethren: As surely as God is faithful, our word to you has not been Yes and No. For the Son of God, Jesus Christ, whom we preached among you, Silvanus and Timothy and I, was not Yes and No; but in him it is always Yes. For all the promises of God find their Yes in him. That is why we utter the Amen through him, to the glory of God. But it is God who establishes us with you in Christ, and has commissioned us; he has put his seal upon us and given us his Spirit in our hearts as a guarantee.
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Ps 119: 129. 130. 131. 132.133.135 (R. 135a)
R/. Lord, let your face shine forth on your servant.
Your decrees are wonderful indeed;
therefore my soul obeys them. R/.
The unfolding of your word gives light,
and understanding to the simple. R/.
I have opened my mouth and I sigh,
for I yearn for your commands. R/.
R/. Lord, let your face shine forth on your servant.
Turn and have mercy on me,
as is your rule for those who love your name. R/.
Let my steps be guided by your promise;
may evil never rule me. R/.
Let your face shine forth on your servant,
and teach me your decrees. R/.
ALLELUIA Matthew 5:16
Alleluia. Let your light so shine before men that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father. Alleluia.
-GOSPEL-
“You are the light of the world.”
A reading from the holy Gospel according to Matthew (Matthew 5:13 -16)
At that time: Jesus said to his disciples, “You are the salt of the earth; but if salt has lost its taste, how shall its saltiness be restored? It is no longer good for anything except to be thrown out and trodden under foot by men. “You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden. Nor do men light a lamp and put it under a bushel, but on a stand, and it gives light to all in the house. Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven.”
The Gospel of the Lord.
TODAY'S REFLECTION
Jesus sends out his disciples to proclaim the coming of God’s kingdom, instructing them and giving them power to work signs in his name. Tradition has it that Barnabas was one of seventy disciples sent out by Jesus (Lk 10:1-12). His Hebrew name was Joseph, but he was better known as Barnabas, son of encouragement. Today’s first reading depicts Barnabas as “a good man, full of the Holy Spirit”. Through his ministry “A great many people were added to the Lord”. Let us pray that we may be gentle and compassionate apostles who are full of the Holy Spirit” and through whom the Lord may touch the lives of many.
Today's Saint and Quote
St Anthony of Padua – June 13th
- Christ acts like a loving mother. To induce us to follow Him, He gives us Himself as an example and promises us a reward in His kingdom.
- Christians must lean on the Cross of Christ just as travelers lean on a staff when they begin a long journey.
- Earthly riches are like the reed. Its roots are sunk in the swamp, and its exterior is fair to behold; but inside it is hollow. If a man leans on such a reed, it will snap off and pierce his soul.
- Attribute to God every good that you have received. If you take credit for something that does not belong to you, you will be guilty of theft.
PERSONAL DEVOTIONAL
Don't be ashamed in confessing your sins; There is no point in trying to stop a river from flowing - Sirach 5:26
- Make a prayer of repentance from the depth of your heart.
- Pray for our hearts to be softened towards one another, so that we can give and receive forgiveness readily within our families, churches and communities.
- Pray that God will help us to seek ways to bring reconciliation where there is estrangement, restoration where there is brokenness, and comfort where there is mourning.
Let Us Pray
O Lord, I am weak and broken, surrounded on all sides by corruption and perversion. Lord have mercy on me: protect me from my enemies who devour me, and guide me in the way of perfection. No matter what happens to me, whether it be an attack or a seduction, may my love for you protect me from falling into sin. May I live a holy life no matter what others do around me – Amen.
Memory Verse: Isaiah 55:1, 2
Wednesday June 14, 2023
Weekday (10)
Office: Psalter Week 2
Mass and Preface of the day
Vestment: Green
Today’s Rosary: The Glorious Mysteries
-FIRST READING-
He made us ministers of a new covenant, not in a written code but in the Spirit.
A reading from the second Letter of Saint Paul to the Corinthians (2 Corinthians 3:4-11)
Brethren: Such is the confidence that we have through Christ towards God. Not that we are sufficient of ourselves to claim anything as coming from us; our sufficiency is from God, who has qualified us to be ministers of a new covenant, not in a written code but in the Spirit; for the written code kills, but the Spirit gives life. Now if the dispensation of death, carved in letters on stone, came with such splendour that the Israelites could not look at Moses’ face because of its brightness, fading as this was, will not the dispensation of the Spirit be attended with greater splendour? For if there was splendour in the dispensation of condemnation, the dispensation of righteousness must far exceed it in splendour. Indeed, in this case, what once had splendour has come to have no splendour at all, because of the splendour that surpasses it. For if what faded away came with splendour, what is permanent must have much more splendour.
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Ps99:5.6.7.8.9 (R. see 9c)
R/. You are holy, O Lord our God
Exalt the Lord our God;
bow down before his footstool.
Holy is he! R/.
Among his priests were Aaron and Moses;
among those who invoked his name was Samuel.
They cried out to the Lord and he answered. R/.
R/. You are holy, O Lord our God
To them he spoke in the pillar of cloud.
They obeyed his decrees and the statutes
which he had given them. R/.
O Lord our God, you answered them.
For them you were a God who forgives,
and yet you punished their offences.
Exalt the Lord our God;
bow down before his holy mountain,
for the Lord our God is holy. R/.
Alleluia See Psalm 25:4b.5a
Alleluia. Teach me your paths, O Lord. Guide me in your truth. Alleluia.
-GOSPEL-
I have come not to abolish the law, but to fulfil it.
A reading from the holy Gospel according to Matthew (Matthew 5:17-19)
At that time: Jesus said to his disciples, “Do not think that I have come to abolish the law and the prophets; I have come not to abolish them but to fulfil them. For truly, I say to you, till heaven and earth pass away, not an iota, not a dot, will pass from the law until all is accomplished. Whoever then relaxes one of the least of these commandments and teaches men so, shall be called least in the kingdom of heaven; but he who does them and teaches them shall be called great in the kingdom of heaven.”
The Gospel of the Lord.
TODAY'S REFLECTION
The Gospels show us how Jesus fulfils the scriptures in many ways. He is the long-awaited Messiah, the Son of God who reveals the compassionate heart of the father.
Jesus himself gives great importance to the scriptures. He declares that obeying the commandments involves being faithful to the letter and spirit of God’s word. There are persons and groups who try to twist God’s word for their own convenience or benefit, and thus lead people astray. Jesus gave his apostles the sacred responsibility of teaching his flock. May we strive to be faithful to Jesus by collaborating with those who are entrusted with the care of his Church.
PERSONAL DEVOTIONAL
"I Have the strength to face all conditions by the power that Christ gives me" Philippians 4:13
- I adore you Lord and I worship you. I give you praise for it is your desire that I should not perish.
- Be merciful to me O Lord, for the number of times I have not operated in your standards.
- O Lord, help me to accept decisions in favour of your standard.
- Lord, do not make me use my position to work against your standards.
Let Us Pray
I come before thy throne of grace, seeking your divine guidance and direction concerning my life this day. Give me the courage to trust you and to follow the path of faith and righteousness as you take the lead as my shepherd. Lord Jesus my shepherd, as I walk in this journey of life, be my rock and fortress, show me favour and guide me in my entire affairs, even in the midst of storm let your hand hold me firm to yourself preserve me in my going out and my coming in, O Angels and Saints of God grant me your fraternal assistance that I may persevere in following the footsteps of Jesus our Lord and Shepherd both now and forever in Jesus name I pray – Amen
Memory verse: 2 Chronicles 7:14
Thursday June 15, 2023
Weekday (10)
Office: Psalter Week 2
Mass and Preface of the day
Vestment: Green
Today’s Rosary: The Luminous Mysteries
Vespers I of the Most Sacred Heart
-FIRST READING-
God has shone in our hearts to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God.
A reading from the second Letter of Saint Paul to the Corinthians (2 Corinthians3:15-4:1.3-6)
Brethren: To this day whenever Moses is read a veil lies over the minds of the Israelites; but when a man turns to the Lord the veil is removed. Now the Lord is the Spirit, and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom. And we all, with unveiled face, beholding the glory of the Lord, are being changed into his likeness from one degree of glory to another; for this comes from the Lord who is the Spirit. Therefore, having this ministry by the mercy of God, we do not lose heart. And even if our gospel is veiled, it is veiled only to those who are perishing. In their case the god of this world has blinded the minds of the unbelievers, to keep them from seeing the light of the gospel of the glory of Christ, who is the likeness of God. For what we preach is not ourselves, but Jesus Christ as Lord, with ourselves as your servants for Jesus’ sake. For it is the God who said, “Let light shine out of darkness,” who has shone in our hearts to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Christ.
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Ps 85:9ab and 10, 11-12, 13-14 (R. cf. 1 0b)
R/. The Lord’s glory will dwell in our land.
I will hear what the Lord God speaks;
he speaks of peace for his people and his faithful.
His salvation is near for those who fear him,
and his glory will dwell in our land. R/.
Merciful love and faithfulness have met;
justice and peace have kissed.
Faithfulness shall spring from the earth,
and justice look down from heaven. R/.
R/. The Lord’s glory will dwell in our land.
Also the Lord will bestow his bounty,
and our earth shall yield its increase.
Justice will march before him,
and guide his steps on the way. R/.
ALLELUIA John 13:34
Alleluia. A new commandment I give to you, says the Lord, that you love one another, even as I have loved you. Alleluia.
-GOSPEL-
”Every one who is angry with his brother shall be liable to judgement.”
A reading from the holy Gospel according to Matthew (Matthew 5:20-26)
At that time: Jesus said to his disciples, “Unless your righteousness exceeds that of the scribes and Pharisees, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven. You have heard that it was said to the men of old, ‘You shall not kill; and whoever kills shall be liable to judgement.’ But I say to you that every one who is angry with his brother shall be liable to judgement; whoever insults his brother shall be liable to the council, and whoever says, ‘You fool! ' shall be liable to the hell of fire. So if you are offering your gift at the altar, and there remember that your brother has something against you, leave your gift there before the altar and go; first be reconciled to your brother, and then come and offer your gift. Make friends quickly with your accuser, while you are going with him to court, lest your accuser hand you over to the judge, and the judge to the guard, and you be put in prison; truly, I say to you, you will never get out till you have paid the last penny.”
The Gospel of the Lord.
TODAY'S REFLECTION
Jesus teaches his disciples that their quest for spiritual perfection must be preceded by good human relations. “Before you bring your offering to the altar of God, go first and be reconciled with your brother, and then come and offer your gift,” He says. It isn’t always easy to accept or forgive people with whom we live and work. It demands that we let go of our self-centredness, egoism and sense of power. But when we make the effort to reconcile with persons around us, we gain internal peace and serenity. This prepares us to develop a deeper spiritual relationship with God.
PERSONAL DEVOTIONAL
"When you give something to a needy person, so not make a big show of it, as the hypocrites do in the houses of worship and on the streets. They have already been paid in full". Matthew 6:2
- Pray that our hearts will continue to be sensitized to the pain of those in need and that God will help us to remain committed to generous living.
- Pray for the orphan, widows and widowers that God may assist them.
- Pray for all accident victims in the hospitals that the Lord may hasten their healing.
- Pray that Christians everywhere will be empowered by the Holy Spirit to be strong in the face of opposition and to share and live out their faith without fear.
Let Us Pray
Dear Jesus my shepherd, give me courage and strength to overcome my fears, to stand firm in my faith, to live in accordance with your word, to walk the path of truth and love even when it is dangerous. Grant me the grace to share my gift with my fellow breathern, especially those that have non around me. Grant me the courage to have unwavering trust in your care and protection over me even in the midst of darkest situation.
Memory verse: Haggai 2:4
Friday June 16, 2023
MOST SACRED HEART OF JESUS (SOLEMNITY)
V1 -, V2 -,V3 -, R1 -, R2 -, R3 -
Office: Prop. Te Deum
Mass Proper; Gloria. Creed
Preface of Sacred Heart
Vestment: White
Today’s Rosary: The Sorrowful Mysteries
Vespers II of the Most Sacred Heart
WORLD DAY OF PRAYER FOR THE SANCTIFICATION OF PRIESTS
ENTRANCE ANTIPHON Ps 33 :11.19
The designs of his heart are from age to age, to rescue their souls from death, and to keep them alive in famine.
The Gloria in excels is (Glory to God in the highest) is said.
COLLECT
Grant, we pray, almighty God, that we who glory in the Heart of your beloved Son and recall the wonders of his love for us, may be made worthy to receive an overflowing measure of grace from that fount of heavenly gifts. Through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son, who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever.
Or
O God, who in the Heart of your Son, wounded by our sins, bestow on us in mercy the boundless treasures of your love, grant, we pray, that in paying him the homage of our devotion we may also offer worthy reparation. Through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son, who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever.
-FIRST READING-
“The Lord set his love upon you and chose you.”
A reading from the Book of Deuteronomy (Deuteronomy 7:6-11)
Moses spoke to the people, saying, “You are a people holy to the Lord your God; the Lord your God has chosen you to be a people for his own possession, out of all the peoples that are on the face of the earth. It was not because you were more in number than any other people that the Lord set his love upon you and chose you, for you were the fewest of all peoples; but it is because the Lord loves you, and is keeping the oath which he swore to your fathers, that the Lord has brought you out with a mighty hand, and redeemed you from the house of bondage, from the hand of Pharaoh king of Egypt. Know therefore that the Lord your God is God, the faithful God who keeps covenant and merciful love with those who love him and keep his commandments, to a thousand generations, and repays to their face those who hate him, by destroying them; he will not be slack with him who hates him, he will repay him to his face. You shall therefore be careful to do the commandment, and the statutes, and the ordinances, which I command you this day.”
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Psalm 103: 1-2.3-4.6-7.8 and 10 (R. 17ab)
R/. The mercy of the Lord is everlasting upon those who hold him in fear.
Bless the Lord, O my soul,
and all within me, his holy name.
Bless the Lord, O my soul,
and never forget all his benefits. R/.
It is the Lord who forgives all your sins,
who heals every one of your ills,
who redeems your life from the grave,
who crowns you with mercy and compassion. R/.
R/. The mercy of the Lord is everlasting upon those who hold him in fear.
The Lord does just deeds,
gives full justice to all who are oppressed.
He made known his ways to Moses,
and his deeds to the children of Israel. R/.
The Lord is compassionate and gracious,
slow to anger and rich in mercy.
He does not treat us according to our sins,
nor repay us according to our faults. R/.
-SECOND READING-
“God loved us.”
A reading from the first Letter of Saint John (1 John 4:7- 16)
Beloved, let us love one another; for love is of God, and he who loves is born of God and knows God. He who does not love does not know God; for God is love. In this the love of God was made manifest among us, that God sent his only-begotten Son into the world, so that we might live through him. In this is love, not that we loved God but that he loved us and sent his Son to be the expiation for our sins. Beloved, if God so loved us, we also ought to love one another. No man has ever seen God; if we love one another, God abides in us and his love is perfected in us. By this we know that we abide in him and he in us, because he has given us of his own Spirit. And we have seen and testify that the Father has sent his Son as the Saviour of the world. Whoever confesses that Jesus is the Son of God, God abides in him, and he in God. So we know and believe the love God has for us. God is love, and he who abides in love abides in God, and God abides in him.
The word of the Lord.
ALLELUIA Matthew 11:29ab
Alleluia. Take my yoke upon you, says the Lord; and learn from me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart. Alleluia.
-GOSPEL-
“I am gentle and lowly in heart.”
A reading from the holy Gospel according to Matthew (Matthew 11:25-30)
At that time Jesus declared, “I thank you, Father, Lord of heaven and earth, that you have hidden these things from the wise and understanding and revealed them to infants; yes, Father, for such was your gracious will. All things have been delivered to me by my Father; and no one knows the Son except the Father, and no one knows the Father except the Son and any one to whom the Son chooses to reveal him. Come to me, all who labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me; for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.”
The Gospel of the Lord.
PRAYER OF THE FAITHFUL
Celebrant:
The sacred Heart of Jesus is the fountain of every blessing. Let us ask the Lord to fill us with those graces that flow from his holy heart and to make our hearts meek and humble like his.
For the leaders of the church: that, like Christ in whose name they act, their hearts may be filled with compassion and love for the flock entrusted to their care. Let us pray to the Lord.
For our country Nigeria: that in our diversity and differences, we may co-exist peacefully and that the freedom of religion of every individual may be respected. Let us pray to the Lord.
For those with various needs: that the poor, needy, homeless and confused, may find consolation in the heart of Jesus, filled with love and mercy. Let us pray to the Lord.
For those who labour and are overburdened: that the gentle heart of the savior may bring solace to their souls and lift them out of their burden. Let us pray to the Lord.
For other intentions: (the sick, church projects or other activities).
For the dead, especially those of our parish community and family members: that they may find eternal rest with the Lord. Let us pray to the Lord.
We pray in silence for our private intentions.
Celebrant:
God our Father, your Mercy is everlasting upon those who hold you in fear. Graciously receive the prayers of your people and fill us with those graces that flow from the sacred Heart of your Son, our Saviour, who is Lord forever and ever.
R/. Amen.
TODAY’S REFLECTION
In spite of the presence of numerous varieties of food that tickle our taste buds, they cannot satisfy our hunger forever and give us eternal life. Only Jesus Christ, our food and drink, can satisfy our hunger and quench our thirst forever. Blessed Alexandrina Maria da Costa of Balasar, Portugal, fed on the Eucharist alone for more than thirteen years! But today the Eucharist, for many, is a lifeless piece of bread. Several Catholics around the world disbelieve in the real presence of Jesus in the Eucharist. The Devil dreads the presence of the Eucharist and we who claim to be believers and followers of Jesus end up desecrating the Eucharist by our sinful way of life.
John Ronald Reuel Tolkien, an English writer and university professor wrote, “Out of the darkness of my life, so much frustrated, I put before you the one great thing to love on earth: the Blessed Sacrament… there you will find romance, glory, honour, fidelity, and the true way of all you loves on earth…. The only cure for sagging or fainting faith is communion. Though always itself, perfect and complete and inviolate, the Blessed Sacrament does not operate completely and once for all in any of us. Like the act of faith it must be continuous and grow by exercise. Frequency is of the highest effect. Seven times a week is more than seven times at intervals”.
PERSONAL DEVOTIONAL
Thus says the Lord, "Call to me, and I will answer you; I will tell you wonderful and marvelous things that you know nothing about" Jeremiah 33:3
- Lord, I come back to you. I renounce every sin of my life. I return from my life of wasted years. I accept Jesus as my personal Lord and Saviour.
- Father, revive the spirit of fear of God and self-control in me in Jesus name.
Let Us Pray
In the name of Jesus, I come before thy throne of grace, seeking your divine guidance and direction concerning my life this day. Give me the courage to trust you and to follow the path of faith and righteousness as you take the lead as my shepherd. Lord Jesus my shepherd, as I walk in this journey of life, be my Rock and Fortress, show me favour and guide me in my entire affairs, even in the midst of storm let your hand hold me firm to yourself preserve me in my going out and my coming in, O Angels and Saints of God grant me your fraternal assistance that I may persevere in following the footsteps of Jesus our Lord and Shepherd both now and forever – Amen
Memory verse: Isaiah 55:1,2
Saturday June 17, 2023
IMMACULATE HEART OF THE BVM (Memorial)
Office: Memorial, Psalter Week 2
Mass and Preface of the Memorial
Vestment: White
Today’s Rosary: The Joyful Mysteries
Vespers I of the 11th Sunday of the Year
-FIRST READING-
“For our sake he made him to be sin who knew no sin.”
A reading from the second Letter of Saint Paul to the Corinthians (2 Corinthians 5: 14-21)
Brethren: The love of Christ urges us on, because we are convinced that one has died for all; therefore all have died. And he died for all, that those who live might live no longer for themselves but for him who for their sake died and was raised. From now on, therefore, we regard no one according to the flesh; even though we once regarded Christ according to the flesh, we regard him thus no longer. Therefore, if any one is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old has passed away, behold, the new has come. All this is from God, who through Christ reconciled us to himself and gave us the ministry of reconciliation; that is, in Christ God was reconciling the world to himself, not counting their trespasses against them, and entrusting to us the message of reconciliation. So we are ambassadors for Christ, God making his appeal through us. We beg you on behalf of Christ, be reconciled to God. For our sake he made him to be sin who knew no sin, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God.
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Psalm 103: 1-2.3-4.8-9.11-12 (R. 8a)
R/. The Lord is compassionate and gracious.
Bless the Lord, O my soul,
and all within me, his holy name.
Bless the Lord, O my soul,
and never forget all his benefits. R/.
It is the Lord who forgives all your sins,
who heals every one of your ills,
who redeems your life from the grave,
who crowns you with mercy and compassion. R/.
R/. The Lord is compassionate and gracious.
The Lord is compassionate and gracious,
slow to anger and rich in mercy.
He will not always find fault;
nor persist in his anger forever. R/.
For as the heavens are high above the earth,
so strong his mercy for those who fear him.
As far as the east is from the west,
so far from us does he remove our transgressions. R/.
ALLELUIA Psalm 119:36a.29b
Alleluia. Bend my heart, O God, to your decrees, grant me mercy by your law. Alleluia.
Gospel
A reading from the Holy Gospel according to St Luke (Luke 2:41-52)
The parents of Jesus went to Jerusalem every year at the feast of the Passover. And when he was twelve years old, they went up according to custom; and when the feast was ended, as they were returning, the boy Jesus stayed behind in Jerusalem. His parents did not know it, but supposing him to be in the company they went a day’s journey, and they sought him among their kinsfolk and acquaintances; and when they did not find him, they returned to Jerusalem, seeking him. After three days they found him in the temple, sitting among the teachers, listening to them and asking them questions; and all who heard him were amazed at his understanding and his answers. And when they saw him they were astonished; and his mother said to him, “Son, why have you treated us so? Behold, your father and I have been looking for you anxiously.” And he said to them, “How is it that you sought me? Did you not know that I must be in my father’s house?” and they did not understand the saying which he spoke to them. And he went down with them and came to Nazareth, and was obedient to them; and his mother kept all these things in her heart.
The Gospel of the Lord
TODAY’S REFLECTION
Devotion to Mary is both simple and complicated to understand. We admire her perfection: she was conceived without sin; was chosen to be the mother of Jesus; and was open to God’s will despite the risks involved. Her life was a model that we certainly can never measure up to. Like any one of us, she knew joy, pain and frustration; she knew both the bitter and the sweet. She understands our pain, although we can hardly fathom hers. She held many things close to her heart and, if we ask, she will hold us and our troubles there as well.
PERSONAL DEVOTIONAL
Lord hear my prayers! In your righteousness listen to my plea; answer me in your faithfulness! Don’t put me, your servant, on trial, no one is innocent in your sight. Psalm 143:1, 2
- Pray for grace and strength to depart from sinful associations.
- Prayer for the grace to know and accept the will of God in all situations of life
Let Us Pray
May your mercy be upon us, O Lord that we may be kept safe through famine and weakness. Let our hearts rejoice in your light and trust in the holiness of thy name that all our actions may be inspired by the might of thy power and the strength of thy Holy will. Amen.
Memory Verse: Galatians 4:6
Sunday June 18, 2023
ELEVENTH SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME A
V1 -, V2 -, R1+, R2 -,
Office: Psalter Week 3, Te Deum
Mass Proper Gloria. Creed.
Preface of Sunday
Vestment: Green
Today’s Rosary: The Glorious Mystery
Vespers II of the 11th Sunday of the Year
Theme of the Sunday: The Sending of the Disciples.
The first reading and the gospel are linked to each other by the theme of God’s choice of a people consecrated to him. In the Old Testament this choice fell on the twelve tribes of Israel and in the New Testament on the twelve apostles. God’s people, both in the Old and in the New Testament, are called to holiness, that is, to a life completely different from others. This life is to become a sign of salvation for everyone especially for those who live around us. The gospel describes this “holy” life of the disciples of Christ, a life full of works of love. The second reading links up with this theme. It speaks of the graciousness of God’s love, a gift that the disciples of Christ must learn to understand and spread.
The Gloria
When indicated this hymn is either sung or said
Glory to God in the highest,
and on earth peace to people of good will.
We bless you,
we adore you,
we glorify you,
we give you thanks for your great glory,
Lord God, heavenly King,
O God, almighty Father.
Lord Jesus Christ, Only Begotten Son,
Lord God, Lamb of God, Son of the Father,
you take away the sins of the world, have mercy on us;
you take away the sins of the world, receive our prayer;
you are seated at the right hand of the Father, have mercy on us.
For you alone are the Holy One, you alone are the Lord,
you alone are the Most High,
Jesus Christ, with the Holy Spirit,
in the glory of God the Father. Amen.
-FIRST READING-
“You shall be to me a kingdom of priests and a holy nation. ”
A reading from the Book of Exodus (Exodus 19:2-6a)
In those days: When the people of Israel came into the wilderness of Sinai, they encamped in the wilderness; and there Israel encamped before the mountain. And Moses went up to God, and the Lord called to him out of the mountain, saying, “Thus you shall say to the house of Jacob, and tell the sons of Israel: You have seen what I did to the Egyptians, and how I bore you on eagles’ wings and brought you to myself. Now therefore, if you will obey my voice and keep my covenant, you shall be my own possession among all peoples; for all the earth is mine, and you shall be to me a kingdom of priests and a holy nation.”
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Psalm 100: 1-2.3.5 (R. 3c)
R/. We are his people, the sheep of his flock.
Cry out with joy to the Lord, all the earth.
Serve the LORD with gladness.
Come before him, singing for joy. R/.
Know that he, the Lord, is God.
He made us; we belong to him.
We are his people, the sheep of his flock. R/.
R/. We are his people, the sheep of his flock.
Indeed, how good is the Lord,
eternal his merciful love.
He is faithful from age to age. R/.
-SECOND READING-
“If we were reconciled to God by the death of his Son, much more shall we be saved by his life. ”
A reading from the Letter of Saint Paul to the Romans (Romans 5:5-11)
Brethren: While we were yet helpless, at the right time Christ died for the ungodly. Why, one will hardly die for a righteous man - though perhaps for a good man one will dare even to die. But God shows his love for us in that while we were yet sinners Christ died for us. Since, therefore, we are now justified by his blood, much more shall we be saved by him from the wrath of God. For if while we were enemies we were reconciled to God by the death of his Son, much more, now that we are reconciled, shall we be saved by his life. Not only so, but we also rejoice in God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have now received our reconciliation.
The word of the Lord.
ALLELUIA Mark 1:15
Alleluia. The kingdom of God is at hand; repent, and believe in the Gospel. Alleluia.
-GOSPEL-
“He called to him his twelve disciples, and sent them out.
A reading from the holy Gospel according to Matthew (Matthew 9:36-10:8)
At that time: When Jesus saw the crowds, he had compassion for them, because they were harassed and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd. Then he said to his disciples, “The harvest is plentiful, but the labourers are few; pray therefore the Lord of the harvest to send out labourers into his harvest.” And he called to him his twelve disciples and gave them authority over unclean spirits, to cast them out, and to heal every disease and every infirmity. The names of the twelve apostles are these: first, Simon, who is called Peter, and Andrew his brother; James the son of Zebedee, and John his brother; Philip and Bartholomew; Thomas and Matthew the tax collector; James the son of Alphaeus, and Thaddaeus; Simon the Cananaean, and Judas lscariot, who betrayed him. These Twelve Jesus sent out, charging them, “Go nowhere among the Gentiles, and enter no town of the Samaritans, but go rather to the lost sheep of the house of Israel. And preach as you go, saying, ‘The kingdom of heaven is at hand. ’ Heal the sick, raise the dead, cleanse lepers, cast out demons. You received without pay, give without pay.”
The Gospel of the Lord.
PRAYER OF THE FAITHFUL
Celebrant:
“The harvest is plentiful, but the labourers are few,” says the Lord. Let us ask him to raise men and women who will be eager to promote God’s kingdom on earth.
For the leaders of the church: that the Pope, Bishops and priests may participate fully in Christ’s ministry of reconciliation, and through their actions, unite all peoples in love. Let us pray to the Lord.
For the world in which we live: that all peoples may strive to live in peace with one another, and that those nations that are not yet open to the message of the Gospel, may become fertile fields for the sowing of God’s word. Let us pray to the Lord.
For those who find it difficult to forgive: that they may realize that forgiveness and reconciliation are necessary tools for inner peace. Let us pray to the Lord.
For vocations to the priesthood and religious life: that more men and women may respond to the call of Christ to be labourers in his vineyard. Let us pray to the Lord.
For other intentions: (the sick, church projects or other activities).
For the dead, especially those of our parish community and family members: that they may find eternal rest with the Lord. Let us pray to the Lord.
We pray in silence for our private intentions.
Celebrant:
Lord and Master of the vineyard, grant us more workers for your vineyard and let the prayers we offer you today be our source of reconciliation with you and one another. Through Christ our Lord.
R/. Amen.
PERSONAL DEVOTIONAL
"When you give something to a needy person, so not make a big show of it, as the hypocrites do in the houses of worship and on the streets. They have already been paid in full". Matthew 6:2
- Pray that our hearts will continue to be sensitized to the pain of those in need and that God will help us to remain committed to generous living.
- Pray for the orphan, widows and widowers that God may assist them.
- Pray for all accident victims in the hospitals that the Lord may hasten their healing.
- Pray that Christians everywhere will be empowered by the Holy Spirit to be strong in the face of opposition and to share and live out their faith without fear.
Let Us Pray
Dear Jesus my shepherd, give me courage and strength to overcome my fears, to stand firm in my faith, to live in accordance with your word, to walk the path of truth and love even when it is dangerous.
Grant me the grace to share my gift with my fellow brethren, especially those that have non. Grant me the courage to have dogged trust in your care and protection over me even in the midst of darkest situation.
Memory Verse: Haggai 2:4
Monday June 19, 2023
ST ROUMUALD, ABB. (Opt. Mem)
Office: Psalter Week 3
Mass of the day or Memorial
Preface of the day or Memorial
Vestment: Green/White
Today’s Rosary: The Joyful Mysteries
-FIRST READING-
As servants of God we commend ourselves in every way.
A reading from the second Letter of Saint Paul to the Corinthians (2 Corinthians 6: 1- 10)
Brethren: Working together with Christ, we entreat you not to accept the grace of God in vain. For he says, “At the acceptable time I have listened to you, and helped you on the day of salvation.” Behold, now is the acceptable time; behold, now is the day of salvation. We put no obstacle in any one’s way, so that no fault may be found with our ministry, but as servants of God we commend ourselves in every way: through great endurance, in afflictions, hardships, calamities, beatings, imprisonments, tumults, labours, watching, hunger; by purity, knowledge, forbearance, kindness, the Holy Spirit, genuine love, truthful speech, and the power of God; with the weapons of righteousness for the right hand and for the left; in honour and dishonour, in ill repute and good repute. We are treated as impostors, and yet are true; as unknown, and yet well known; as dying, and behold we live; as punished, and yet not killed; as sorrowful, yet always rejoicing; as poor, yet making many rich; as having nothing, and yet possessing everything.
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Psalm 98: 1 .2-3ab.3cd-4 (R. 2a)
R/. The Lord has made known his salvation.
O sing a new song to the Lord,
for he has worked wonders.
His right hand and his holy arm
have brought salvation. R/.
The Lord has made known his salvation,
has shown his deliverance to the nations.
He has remembered his merciful love
and his truth for the house of Israel. R/.
R/. The Lord has made known his salvation.
All the ends of the earth have seen
the salvation of our God.
Shout to the Lord, all the earth;
break forth into joyous song,
and sing out your praise. R/.
ALLELUIA Psalm 199:105
Alleluia. Your word is a lamp for my feet, and a light for my path.
Alleluia.
-GOSPEL-
“I say to you, Do not resist one who is evil.”
A reading from the holy Gospel according to Matthew (Matthew 5:38-42)
At that time: Jesus said to his disciples, “You have heard that it was said, ‘An eye for an eye and a tooth for a tooth.’ But I say to you, Do not resist one who is evil. But if any one strikes you on the right cheek, turn to him the other also; and if any one would sue you and take your coat, let him have your cloak as well; and if any one forces you to go one mile, go with him two miles. Give to him who begs from you, and do not refuse him who would borrow from you.”
The Gospel of the Lord.
TODAY’S REFLECTION
Martin Luther King Jr. said that “returning violence for violence multiples violence, adding deeper darkness to a night already devoid of stars.” Contrary to popular thinking, non-violent responses to injustice aren’t signs of weakness. Christians must be peacemakers. Reacting in a spirit of vengeance wastes time and resources; it distracts us from focusing on the pressing needs of those who might lash out in hostility and frustration. To engage in the work of peace, we must be bold in seeking understanding and justice. Let us pray for the grace and patience to find non-violent means to heal troubled human relationships.
Blessing for the New Week
A very good morning to you my dearest friend. I hope your night was cool and you are ready to conquer this new week.
May God lead you as you begin this new week and may His presence and glory shield you from every harm.
As God promised Jacob that he will go with him and not to leave him, I pray that he shall lead you to where you will find favour and pasture and your coming back to your home shall be in Joy and with lots of testimony.
May the heavenly dew fall upon the labour of our hands so that it shall blossom and flourish super – abundantly.
Just maintain your stand before God in adoration and he will make everything well for you. Go out with faith, put in your best and let God surprise you with His blessings
Meditation: Genesis 28:1-22/Psalm 91
PERSONAL DEVOTIONAL
This prayer made in faith will heal the sick; the Lord will restore them to health, and the sins they have committed will be forgiven. – James 5:15
- Lord, I come back to you. I renounce every sin of my life. I return from my life of wasted years. I accept Jesus as my personal Lord and Saviour.
- Father, revive the spirit of fear of God and self-control in me in Jesus name.
Let Us Pray
In the name of Jesus, I come before thy throne of grace, seeking your divine guidance and direction concerning my life this day. Give me the courage to trust you and to follow the path of faith and righteousness as you take the lead as my shepherd. Lord Jesus my shepherd, as I walk in this journey of life, be my Rock and Fortress, show me favour and guide me in my entire affairs, even in the midst of storm let your hand hold me firm to yourself preserve me in my going out and my coming in, O Angels and Saints of God grant me your fraternal assistance that I may persevere in following the footsteps of Jesus our Lord and Shepherd both now and forever – Amen
Memory verse: Isaiah 55:1,2
Tuesday June 20, 2023
Weekday (11)
Office: Psalter Week 3
Mass and Preface of the Day
Vestment: Green
Today’s Rosary: The Sorrowful Mysteries
-FIRST READING-
For your sake Christ became poor.
A reading from the second Letter of Saint Paul to the Corinthians (2 Corinthians 8: 1-9)
We want you to know, brethren, about the grace of God which has been shown in the churches of Macedonia, for in a severe test of affliction, their abundance of joy and their extreme poverty have overflowed in a wealth of liberality on their part. For they gave according to their means, as I can testify, and beyond their means, of their own free will, begging us earnestly for the favour of taking part in the relief of the saints — and this, not as we expected, but first they gave themselves to the Lord and to us by the will of God. Accordingly we have urged Titus that as he had already made a beginning, he should also complete among you this gracious work. Now as you excel in everything in faith, in utterance, in knowledge, in all earnestness, and in your love for us — see that you excel in this gracious work also. I say this not as a command, but to prove by the earnestness of others that your love also is genuine. For you know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that though he was rich, yet for your sake he became poor, so that by his poverty you might become rich.
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Psalm 146: 1b-2.5-6ab.6c-7.8-9a (R. 1b)
R/. My soul, give praise to the Lord!
Or: Alleluia.
My soul, give praise. to the Lord;
I will praise the Lord all my life,
sing praise to my God while I live. R/.
Blessed is he who is helped by Jacob’s God,
whose hope is in the Lord his God,
who made the heavens and the earth,
the seas and all they contain. R/.
R/. My soul, give praise to the Lord!
Or: Alleluia.
It is the Lord who preserves fidelity forever,
who does justice to those who are oppressed.
It is he who gives bread to the hungry,
the Lord who sets prisoners free. R/.
It is the Lord who opens the eyes of the blind,
the Lord who raises up those who are bowed down.
It is the Lord who loves the just,
the Lord who protects the stranger. R/.
ALLELUIA John 13:34
Alleluia. A new commandment I give to you, says the Lord, that you love one another, even as I have loved you. Alleluia.
-GOSPEL-
“Love your enemies.”
A reading from the holy Gospel according to Matthew (Matthew 5:43-48)
At that time: Jesus said to his disciples, “You have heard that it was said, ‘You shall love your neighbour and hate your enemy.’ But I say to you, Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, so that you may be sons of your Father who is in heaven; for he makes his sun rise on the evil and on the good, and sends rain on the just and on the unjust. For if you love those who love you, what reward have you? Do not even the tax collectors do the same? And if you salute only your brethren, what more are you doing than others? Do not even the Gentiles do the same? You, therefore, must be perfect, as your heavenly Father is perfect.”
The Gospel of the Lord.
TODAY’S REFLECTION
Do we, like the Christians that Paul praises, “beg for the favour” of giving generously? We are asked to give not only money but love and deep compassion as well; to give not just to those who ‘deserve’, but to any needy person. In the Gospel, Jesus asks us not to judge whether someone is worthy of our love or not. If our heavenly father can extend his loving care to all, the good and evil alike, can we do any less? But we can’t begin to love in this way without the constant help of God’s grace, which enables us to fulfil Christ’s command to be perfect, just as our heavenly Father is perfect.”
PERSONAL DEVOTIONAL
"I waited patiently for the Lord's help; then he listened to me and heard my cry" Psalm 40:1
- Pray with Psalm 40:1-12 (meditatively and seriously).
- Lord, I turn every mockery to testimony in the name of Jesus Christ.
- I declare that I shall be an instrument of praise to God and testimony of God’s faithfulness to the world.
- Pray for strength to believe and wait on the Lord for as many that are despairing now.
Let Us Pray
Gracious and holy Father, please give me intellect to understand you, reason to discern you; diligence to seek you; wisdom to find you; a spirit to know you; a heart to meditate upon you; ears to hear you; eyes to see you; a tongue to proclaim you; a way of life pleasing to you; patience to wait for you; and perseverance to look for you. Grant me: a perfect end, your holy presence. A blessed resurrection, and life everlasting.
Memory verse: Haggai 2:8
Wednesday June 21, 2023
Office: Memorial, Psalter Week 3
Preface of the Memorial
Mass of the Memorial,
Vestment: White
Today’s Rosary: The Glorious Mysteries
-FIRST READING-
“God loves a cheerful giver.”
A reading from the second Letter of Saint Paul to the Corinthians (2 Corinthians 9:6-11)
Brethren: He who sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and he who sows bountifully will also reap bountifully. Each one must do as he has made up his mind, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver. And God is able to provide you with every blessing in abundance, so that you may always have enough of everything and may provide in abundance for every good work. As it is written, “He scatters abroad, he gives to the poor; his righteousness endures for ever.” He who supplies seed to the sower and bread for food will supply and multiply your resources and increase the harvest of your righteousness. You will be enriched in every way for great generosity, which through us will produce thanksgiving to God.
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Psalm 112: 1b-2.3-4.9 (R. 1 b)
R/. Blessed the man who fears the Lord.
Or: Alleluia.
Blessed the man who fears the Lord,
who takes great delight in his commandments.
His descendants shall be powerful on earth;
the generation of the upright will be blest. R/.
Riches and wealth are in his house;
his justice stands firm forever.
A light rises in the darkness for the upright;
he is generous, merciful and just. R/.
R/. Blessed the man who fears the Lord.
Or: Alleluia.
Open-handed, he gives to the poor;
his justice stands firm forever.
His might shall be exalted in glory. R/.
ALLELUIA John 14:23
Alleluia. If a man loves me, he will keep my word, says the Lord; and my Father will love him, and we will come to him. Alleluia.
-GOSPEL-
“Your Father who sees in secret will reward you.”
A reading from the holy Gospel according to Matthew (Matthew 6:1-6.16-18)
At that time: Jesus said to his disciples, “Beware of practicing your piety before men in order to be seen by them; for then you will have no reward from your Father who is in heaven. Thus, when you give alms, sound no trumpet before you, as the hypocrites do in the synagogues and in the streets, that they may be praised by men. Truly, I say to you, they have their reward. But when you give alms, do not let your left hand know what your right hand is doing, so that your alms may be in secret; and your Father who sees in secret will reward you. And when you pray, you must not be like the hypocrites; for they love to stand and pray in the synagogues and at the street comers, that they may be seen by men. Truly, I say to you, they have their reward. But when you pray, go into your room and shut the door and pray to your Father who is in secret; and your Father who sees in secret will reward you. “And when you fast, do not look dismal, like the hypocrites, for they disfigure their faces that their fasting may be seen by men. Truly, I say to you, they have their reward. But when you fast, anoint your head and wash your face, that your fasting may not be seen by men but by your Father who is in secret; and your Father who sees in secret will reward you.”
The Gospel of the Lord.
TODAY’S REFLECTION
William Shakespeare writes that “the quality of mercy is not strained.” Generosity ought to be cheerfully shown and not given out of compulsion. Any act of goodness given grudgingly or out of compulsion amounts to sowing sparingly. If we truly want to reap a rich harvest with our generosity and kindness, it must be done with a real smile on our face. Again, while giving, we must not blow our trumpet. The dignity of the receiver must also be respected. We cannot expect to reap bountifully from an act of goodness that is done to draw appreciation and praise from others. If we do it to be noticed by others, we forgo being noticed by God, who alone can reward us bountifully.
PERSONAL DEVOTIONAL
"When the Holy Spirit comes upon you, you will be filled with power, and you will be witnesses for me in Jerusalem.... and to the ends of the earth" Acts 1:6
- Pray that the glory of the Lord should overshadow you and all your household.
- Pray that all your actions and deeds should be influenced by God the Father, God the Son and God the Holy Spirit.
Let Us Pray
Breathe into me, Holy Spirit, that my thoughts may all be holy. Move in me, Holy Spirit, that my work, too, may be holy. Attract my heart, Holy Spirit, that I may love only what is holy. Strengthen me, Holy Spirit that I may defend all that is holy. Protect me, Holy Spirit, that I may always be holy.
Memory verse: John 1:1
Thursday June 22, 2023
St Paulinus of Nola, B. (Opt Mem)
SS John Fisher, B. & Thomas More, M. (Opt Mem)
Office – Psalter Week 3
Mass and the day or of Memorial
Preface of Weekday or of the Memorial
Vestment: Green/Red/White
Today’s Rosary: The Luminous Mysteries
-FIRST READING-
“I preached God’s Gospel without cost to you.”
A reading from the second Letter of Saint Paul to the Corinthians (2 Corinthians 11:1-11)
Brethren: I wish you would bear with me in a little foolishness. Do bear with me! I feel a divine jealousy for you, for I betrothed you to Christ to present you as a pure bride to her one husband. But I am afraid that as the serpent deceived Eve by his cunning, your thoughts will be led astray from a sincere and pure devotion to Christ. For if someone comes and preaches another Jesus than the one we preached, or if you receive a different spirit from the one you received, or if you accept a different gospel from the one you accepted, you submit to it readily enough. I think that I am not in the least inferior to these superlative apostles. Even if I am unskilled in speaking, I am not in knowledge; in every way we have made this plain to you in all things. Did I commit a sin in abasing myself so that you might be exalted, because I preached God’s gospel without cost to you? I robbed other churches by accepting support from them in order to serve you. And when I was with you and was in want, I did not burden any one, for my needs were supplied by the brethren who came from Macedonia. So I refrained and will refrain from burdening you in any way. As the truth of Christ is in me, this boast of mine shall not be silenced in the regions of Achaia. And why? Because I do not love you? God knows I do!
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Psalm 111:1b-2.3-4.7-8 (R. 7a)
R/. The Lord’s handiwork is justice and truth.
Or: Alleluia.
I will praise the Lord with all my heart,
in the meeting of the just and the assembly.
Great are the works of the Lord,
to be pondered by all who delight in them. R/.
Majestic and glorious his work;
his justice stands firm forever.
He has given us a memorial of his wonders.
The Lord is gracious and merciful. R/.
R/. The Lord’s handiwork is justice and truth.
Or: Alleluia.
His handiwork is justice and truth;
his precepts are all of them sure,
standing firm forever and ever,
wrought in uprightness and truth. R/.
ALLELUIA Romans 8:15bc
Alleluia. You have received the spirit of sonship; in him we cry, “Abba! Father!” Alleluia.
-GOSPEL-
“Pray then like this.”
A reading from the holy Gospel according to Matthew (Matthew 6:7-15)
At that time: Jesus said to his disciples, “In praying do not heap up empty phrases as the Gentiles do; for they think that they will be heard for their many words. Do not be like them, for your Father knows what you need before you ask him. Pray then like this: Our Father who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name. Thy kingdom come, thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread; And forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us; and lead us not into temptation, But deliver us from evil. For if you forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father also will forgive you; but if you do not forgive men their trespasses neither will your Father forgive your trespasses.”
The Gospel of the Lord.
TODAY’S REFLECTION
The surest sign of the presence of the Holy Spirit is joy. In today’s Gospel, Jesus speaks to us on the basis for joy. He came to share our human life so that we might share his divine life. In the privacy of our inner life with God, we meet our heavenly father in loving intimacy when we pray to him “In secret”. In Jesus, we have the same relationship with God that he had with his heavenly Father. Our prayer – the Lord’s Prayer – is to be like the communication between a loving parent and a beloved child. This truth should be the unfailing source of our joy as Christians, in good times and in bad.
PERSONAL DEVOTIONAL
"The Lord is our shelter and strength, always ready to help in times of trouble. So we shall not be afraid, even if the earth is shaken". Psalm 46:1,2
- Father, forgive me for neglecting to focus on the crown of life every day of my life.
- Dear Lord, give me the grace to follow you till the end of my life.
- Pray that every child of God should be conscious of the reward of eternal life which Christian race has to offer and work towards it.
Let Us Pray
Dear Lord, do not let me be separated from you because of hardship, persecution, hunger, poverty, danger or death. Help me to remain faithful to you in the mighty name of Jesus.
Memory verse: Matthew 5:39
Friday June 23, 2023
Week day 11
Office: Psalter Week 3
Mass and Preface of the day
Vestment: Green
Today’s Rosary: Sorrowful Mystery
EVENING: VIGIL MASS OF THE BIRTH OF JOHN THE BAPTIST (Solemnity)
Readings below.
-FIRST READING-
Apart from other things, there is the daily pressure upon me of my anxiety for all the churches.”
A reading from the second Letter of Saint Paul to the Corinthians (2 Corinthians 11: 18.21b-30)
Brethren: Since many boast of worldly things, I too will boast. Whatever any one dares to boast of — I am speaking as a fool - I also dare to boast of that. Are they Hebrews? So am I. Are they Israelites? So am I. Are they descendants of Abraham? So am I. Are they servants of Christ? I am a better one — I am talking like a madman — with far greater labours, far more imprisonments, with countless beatings, and often near death. Five times I have received at the hands of the Jews the forty lashes less one. Three times I have been beaten with rods; once I was stoned. Three times I have been shipwrecked; a night and a day I have been adrift at sea; on frequent journeys, in danger from rivers, danger from robbers, danger from my own people, danger from Gentiles, danger in the city, danger in the wilderness, danger at sea, danger from false brethren; in toil and hardship, through many a sleepless night, in hunger and thirst, often without food, in cold and exposure. And, apart from other things, there is the daily pressure upon me of my anxiety for all the churches. Who is weak, and I am not weak? Who is made to fall, and I am not indignant? If I must boast, I will boast of the things that show my weakness.
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Psalm 34:2-3.4-5.6-7 (R. see 18b)
R/. The Lord rescues them in all their distress.
I will bless the Lord at all times,
praise of him is always in my mouth.
In the Lord my soul shall make its boast;
the humble shall hear and be glad. R/.
Glorify the Lord with me;
together let us praise his name.
I sought the Lord, and he answered me;
from all my terrors he set me free. R.
R/. The Lord rescues them in all their distress.
Look towards him and be radiant;
let your faces not be abashed.
This lowly one called; the Lord heard,
and rescued him from all his distress. R.
ALLELUIA Matthew 5:3
Alleluia. Blessed are the pure in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Alleluia.
-GOSPEL-
“Where your treasure is, there will your heart be also.”
A reading from the holy Gospel according to Matthew (Matthew 6:19-23)
At that time: Jesus said to his disciples, “Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust consume and where thieves break in and steal, but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust consumes and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also. The eye is the lamp of the body. So, if your eye is sound, your whole body will be full of light; but if your eye is not sound, your whole body will be full of darkness. If then the light in you is darkness, how great is the darkness!”
The Gospel of the Lord.
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
VIGIL MASS OF THE BIRTH OF JOHN THE BAPTIST (Solemnity)
Vigil Mass prop, Gloria. Creed
Preface of St John the Baptist
Vestment: White
THEME OF THE FEAST: John Prepares the Ways of the Lord.
The first reading tells us of a faithful Servant of God, who will be the light of all peoples. There were those who thought that the Baptist has such a light, but John the evangelist clarifies this immediately: “He was not the light, but came to testify to the light”; “the true light, which enlightens everyone” (Jn 1:8-9) is Christ. Only Luke describes the birth of the Baptist, while the other evangelists mention him only at the beginning of the public life of Jesus. Luke does so in order to show that with John a new era has dawned: the time of the promises has ended, there is to be no more waiting, the time has begun for such promises to be fulfilled. God has kept his word.
This Mass is used on the evening of 23 June, either before or after First Vespers (Evening Prayer I) of the Solemnity.
ENTRANCE ANTIPHON Lk 1:15.14
He will be great in the sight of the Lord and will be filled with the Holy Spirit, even from his mother’s womb; and many will rejoice at his birth.
COLLECT
Grant, we pray, almighty God, that your family may walk in the way of salvation and, attentive to what Saint John the Precursor urged, may come safely to the One he foretold, our Lord Jesus Christ. Who lives and reigns with you. . .
-FIRST READING-
“Before I formed you in the womb, I knew you.”
A reading from the Book of Jeremiah (Jeremiah 1:4- 10)
In the days of Josiah: The word of the Lord came to me saying, “Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, and before you were born I consecrated you; I appointed you a prophet to the nations.” Then I said, “Ah, Lord God! Behold, I do not know how to speak, for I am only a youth.” But the Lord said to me, “Do not say, ‘I am only a youth’; for to all to whom I send you you shall go, and whatever I command you you shall speak. Be not afraid of them, for I am with you to deliver you, says the Lord.” Then the Lord put forth his hand and touched my mouth; and the Lord said to me, “Behold, I have put my words in your mouth. See, I have set you this day over nations and over kingdoms, to pluck up and to break down, to destroy and to overthrow, to build and to plant.”
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Ps 71:1-2.3-4a.5-6ab.15ab and 17 (R. 6b)
R/. From my mother’s womb, you have been my help.
In you, O Lord, I take refuge;
let me never be put to shame.
In your justice, rescue me, free me;
incline your ear to me and save me. R/.
Be my rock, my constant refuge,
a mighty stronghold to save me,
for you are my rock, my stronghold.
My God, free me from the hand of the wicked. R/.
R/. From my mother’s womb, you have been my help.
It is you, O Lord, who are my hope,
my trust, O Lord, from my youth.
On you I have learned from my birth;
from my mother’s womb, you have been my help. R/.
My mouth will tell of your justice,
and all the day long of your salvation.
O God, you have taught me from my youth,
and I proclaim your wonders still. R/.
-SECOND READING-
“The prophets searched and inquired about this salvation.”
A reading from the first Letter of Saint Peter (1 Peter 1 :8- 12)
Beloved: Without having seen Jesus Christ, you love him; though you do not now see him you believe in him and rejoice with unutterable and exalted joy. As the outcome of your faith you obtain the salvation of your souls. The prophets who prophesied of the grace that was to be yours searched and inquired about this salvation; they inquired what person or time was indicated by the Spirit of Christ within them when predicting the sufferings of Christ and the subsequent glory. It was revealed to them that they were serving not themselves but you, in the things which have now been announced to you by those who preached the good news to you through the Holy Spirit sent from heaven, things into which angels long to look.
The word of the Lord.
ALLELUIA John 1:7; Luke 1:17
Alleluia. He came to bear witness to the light; to make ready for the Lord a people prepared. Alleluia.
-GOSPEL-
“She will bear you a son, and you shall call his name John.”
A reading from the holy Gospel according to Luke (Luke 1 :5-17)
In the days of Herod, king of Judea, there was a priest named Zechariah, of the division of Abijah; and he had a wife of the daughters of Aaron, and her name was Elizabeth. And they were both righteous before God, walking in all the commandments and ordinances of the Lord blamelessly. But they had no child, because Elizabeth was barren, and both were advanced in years. Now while he was serving as priest before God when his division was on duty, according to the custom of the priesthood, it fell to him by lot to enter the temple of the Lord and burn incense. And the whole multitude of the people were praying outside at the hour of incense. And there appeared to him an angel of the Lord standing on the right side of the altar of incense. And Zechariah was troubled when he saw him, and fear fell upon him. But the angel said to him, “Do not be afraid, Zechariah, for your prayer is heard, and your wife Elizabeth will bear you a son, and you shall call his name John. And you will have joy and gladness, and many will rejoice at his birth; for he will be great before the Lord, and he shall drink no wine nor strong drink, and he will be filled with the Holy Spirit, even from his mother’s womb. And he will turn many of the sons of Israel to the Lord their God, and he will go before him in the spirit and power of Elijah, to turn the hearts of the fathers to the children, and the disobedient to the wisdom of the just, to make ready for the Lord a people prepared.”
The Gospel of the Lord.
TODAY’S REFLECTION
Paul sees a threat to the new faith of his beloved Corinthian community posed by a rival group of preachers, who insist that converts embrace all of Jewish law as well as Christian baptism, and try to undermine Paul’s teaching on this issue. Paul maintains that he can meet and even surpass all the criteria of authenticity that they claim for their ministry, yet at the end he boasts not of his strength but of his weakness. It is weakness that opens him to the only source of strength that counts: the grace of God in Christ Jesus. Like Paul, true disciples do not base their confidence on the externals that elicit public acclaim and recognition, but on the strength that comes from trust in God.
PERSONAL DEVOTIONAL
...You have heard that it was said, Love your friends, hate your enemies, But now I tell you; love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, so that you may become the children of your Father in heaven - Matthew 5:43-45
- Asked the Lord for pardon for your sins especially for the times you have cheated and have involved in dubious business deals.
Let Us Pray
Father, in humility I come to you, asking for mercy and pardon for my sins and those of my children / wards. Forgive me for the times I have failed in my responsibilities. Forgive me for the times I fail to forgive others. Do not let my children/ward to suffer because of my sins. Holy Spirit, transform me and all my children/wards into your living temples of holiness and glory in the name of Jesus.
Saturday June 24, 2023
BIRTH OF ST JOHN THE BAPTIST (SOLEMNITY)
Office: Proper, Te Deum
Mass prop. Gloria. Creed>
Preface of St John the Baptist
Vestment: White
Today’s Rosary: The Joyful Mysteries
Vespers I of the 12th Sunday of the Year
ENTRANCE ANTIPHON Jn 1:6-7; Lk 1:17
A man was sent from God, whose name was John. He came to testify to the light, to prepare a people fit for the Lord.
COLLECT
O God, who raised up Saint John the Baptist to make ready a nation fit for Christ the Lord, give your people, we pray, the grace of spiritual joys and direct the hearts of all the faithful into the way of salvation and peace. Through our Lord.
The Gloria
When indicated this hymn is either sung or said
Glory to God in the highest,
and on earth peace to people of good will.
We bless you,
we adore you,
we glorify you,
we give you thanks for your great glory,
Lord God, heavenly King,
O God, almighty Father.
Lord Jesus Christ, Only Begotten Son,
Lord God, Lamb of God, Son of the Father,
you take away the sins of the world, have mercy on us;
you take away the sins of the world, receive our prayer;
you are seated at the right hand of the Father, have mercy on us.
For you alone are the Holy One, you alone are the Lord,
you alone are the Most High,
Jesus Christ, with the Holy Spirit,
in the glory of God the Father. Amen.
-FIRST READING-
“I will give you as a light to the nations.”
A reading from the Book of Isaiah (Isaiah 49:1-6)
Listen to me, O Islands, and pay attention, you peoples from afar. The Lord called me from the womb, from the body of my mother he named my name. He made my mouth like a sharp sword, in the shadow of his hand he hid me; he made me a polished arrow, in his quiver he hid me away. And he said to me, “You are my servant, Israel, in whom I will be glorified.” But I said, “I have laboured in vain, I have spent my strength for nothing and vanity; yet surely my right is with the Lord, and my recompense with my God.” And now the Lord says, who formed me from the womb to be his servant, to bring Jacob back to him, and that Israel might be gathered to him, for I am honoured in the eyes of the Lord, and my God has become my strength — he says: “It is too light a thing that you should be my servant to raise up the tribes of Jacob and to restore the preserved of Israel; I will give you as a light to the nations, that my salvation may reach to the end of the earth.”
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Psalm 139:1-3. 13- 14.15 (R. 14a)
R/. I thank you who wonderfully made me.
O Lord, you search me and you know me.
You yourself know my resting and my rising;
you discern my thoughts from afar.
You mark when I walk or lie down;
you know all my ways through and through. R/.
For it was you who formed my inmost being,
knit me together in my mother’s womb.
I thank you who wonderfully made me;
how wonderful are your works,
which my soul knows well! R/.
R/. I thank you who wonderfully made me.
My frame was not hidden from you,
when I was being fashioned in secret
and moulded in the depths of the earth. R/.
-SECOND READING-
John had preached before Christ’s coming,
A reading from the Acts of the Apostles (Acts 13:22-26)
In those days: Paul said, “God raised up David to be our fathers’ king; of whom he testified and said, ‘I have found in David, the son of Jesse, a man after my heart, who will do all my will.’ Of this man’s posterity God has brought to Israel a Saviour, Jesus, as he promised. Before his coming John had preached a baptism of repentance to all the people of Israel. And as John was finishing his course, he said, ‘What do you suppose that I am? I am not he. No, but after me one is coming, the sandals of whose feet I am not worthy to untie.’ “Brethren, sons of the family of Abraham, and those among you that fear God, to us has been sent the message of this salvation.”
The word of the Lord.
ALLELUIA Luke1:76
Alleluia. You, child, will be called the prophet of the Most High; for you will go before the Lord to prepare his ways. Alleluia.
-GOSPEL-
“His name is John.”
A reading from the holy Gospel according to Luke (Luke 1:57-66.80)
Now the time came for Elizabeth to be delivered, and she gave birth to a son. And her neighbours and kinsfolk heard that the Lord had shown great mercy to her, and they rejoiced with her. And on the eighth day they came to circumcise the child; and they would have named him Zechariah after his father, but his mother said, “Not so; he shall be called John.” And they said to her, “None of your kindred is called by this name.” And they made signs to his father, inquiring what he would have him called. And he asked for a writing tablet, and wrote, “His name is John.” And they all marvelled. And immediately his mouth was opened and his tongue loosed, and he spoke, blessing God. And fear came on all their neighbours. And all these things were talked about through all the hill country of Judea; and all who heard them laid them up in their hearts, saying, “What then will this child be?” For the hand of the Lord was with him. And the child grew and became strong in spirit, and he was in the wilderness till the day of his manifestation to Israel.
The Gospel of the Lord.
The Creed (I Believe)
I believe in one God, the Father almighty, maker of heaven and earth, of all things visible and invisible. I believe in one Lord Jesus Christ, the Only Begotten Son of God, born of the Father before all ages. God from God, Light from Light, true God from true God, begotten, not made, consubstantial with the Father; through him all things were made. For us men and for our salvation he came down from heaven, and by the Holy Spirit was incarnate of the Virgin Mary, and became man. For our sake he was crucified under Pontius Pilate, he suffered death and was buried, and rose again on the third day in accordance with the Scriptures. He ascended into heaven and is seated at the right hand of the Father. He will come again in glory to judge the living and the dead and his kingdom will have no end. I believe in the Holy Spirit, the Lord, the giver of life, who proceeds from the Father and the Son, who with the Father and the Son is adored and glorified, who has spoken through the prophets. I believe in one, holy, catholic and apostolic Church. I confess one Baptism for the forgiveness of sins and I look forward to the resurrection of the dead and the life of the world to come. Amen.
PRAYER OF THE FAITHFUL
Celebrant:
God our Father chose John the Baptist to be the herald and forerunner of his Son, our Lord Jesus Christ. Trusting in the efficacy of his intercession, let us ask God to hearken to our petitions.
For the Pope, our local ordinary, the order of Bishops, priests, and religious: that they may be obedient to the will of God and so become faithful and committed to their vocation. We pray O Lord.
For our country: that God may raise men and women who, like John the Baptist, will be committed to leading the people to the fullness of the truth in Christ. We pray O Lord.
For missionaries all over the world: that, like John the Baptist, they may be untiring in proclaiming the Good News. We pray O Lord.
For our worshipping community: that we may cultivate the virtues of perseverance and patience, and thus become steadfast in our faith and unperturbed by the challenges of life. We pray O Lord.
For other intentions: (the sick, church projects or other activities).
For the dead, especially those of our parish community and family members: that they may find eternal rest with the Lord. We pray O Lord.
We pray in silence for our private intentions.
Celebrant:
Almighty and everliving God, you hearkened to the prayers of Zechariah and Elizabeth and gave them John the Baptist. Look favourably upon us and, in your mercy, listen to our cry. Through Christ our Lord.
R/. Amen.
TODAY’S REFLECTION
What will this child turn out to be? This question could be asked of any one of us at any stage of our lives: “what will he/she turn out to be?” John became the one who prepared the way for Jesus by witnessing to him. He led people in Jesus’ direction through his life and preaching. We all share in different ways in the work of john the Baptist. Each of us is called to live in such a way that we point others towards the lord and help others to meet the lord. We point others towards the Lord when we constantly seek the Lord ourselves, and, by opening ourselves more fully to the Lord’s presence, try to grow in our relationship with him.
Today’s Saint and Quote: St John the Baptist – June 24th
He must increase, I must decrease.
PERSONAL DEVOTIONAL
“Someone is shouting in the desert, ‘Prepare a road for the Lord; make a straight path for him to travel’ “John 3:3
- Tell Jesus to come and take the lead in your life (take seriously).
- Tell Jesus to calm every turbulent waters in your life and family.
- Tell Jesus to refresh your life.
Let Us Pray
O Christ Jesus, when all is darkness, and we feel our weakness and helplessness, give us to have perfect trust in your protecting love and strengthening power, so that nothing may frighten or worry us, for, living close to you, we shall see your hand, your purpose, your will through all things. Amen.
Sunday June 25, 2023
Twelfth Sunday of the Year
V1 -, V2-, R1+, R2-,
Office: Psalter Week 4, Te Deum
Mass Proper; Gloria. Creed.
Preface of Sunday
Vestment: Green
Today’s Rosary: The Glorious Mysteries
Vespers II of the 12th Sunday of the Year
THEME OF THE SUNDAY: Persecution.
This is the theme that binds together all three readings. The light of God disturbs those who prefer to live in darkness and they inevitably react by opposition. Persecution often troubled the lives of the prophets. The first reading reminds us of the prophet Jeremiah. In the gospel Jesus says that persecution is a kind of cloak that his disciples will have to wear if they are to be firm in their beliefs. The second reading compares Adam with Christ and confirms that in the struggle between good and evil, good will always triumph.
ENTRANCE ANTIPHON cf. Ps 27:8-9
The Lord is the strength of his people, a saving refuge for the one he has anointed. Save your people, Lord, and bless your heritage, and govern them forever.
COLLECT
Grant, O Lord, that we may always revere and love your holy name, for you never deprive of your guidance those you set firm on the foundation of your love. Through our Lord...
-FIRST READING-
“He has delivered the life of the needy from the hands of evildoers.”
A reading from the Book of Jeremiah (Jeremiah 20: 10-13)
Jeremiah said: I hear many whispering. Terror is on every side! “Denounce him! Let us denounce him!” say all my familiar friends, watching for my fall. “Perhaps he will be deceived, then we can overcome him, and take our ‘revenge on him.” But the Lord is with me as a dread warrior; therefore my persecutors will stumble, they will not overcome me. They will be greatly shamed, for they will not succeed. Their eternal dishonour will never be forgotten. O Lord of hosts, who test the righteous, who see the heart and the mind, let me see your vengeance upon them, for to you have I committed my cause. Sing to the LORD; praise the LORD! For he has delivered the life of the needy from the hand of evildoers.
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Psalm 69:7-9.13 and 16.32-34 (R. 13c)
R/. In your great mercy, answer me, O Lord.
It is for you that I suffer taunts,
that shame has covered my face.
To my own kin I have become an outcast,
a stranger to the children of my mother.
Zeal for your house consumes me,
and taunts against you fall on me. R/.
But I pray to you, O Lord,
for a time of your favour.
In your great mercy, answer me, O God,
with your salvation that never fails.
Lord, answer, for your mercy is kind;
in your great compassion, turn towards me. R/.
R/. In your great mercy, answer me, O Lord.
The poor when they see it will be glad,
and God-seeking hearts will revive;
for the Lord listens to the needy,
and does not spurn his own in their chains.
Let the heavens and the earth give him praise,
the seas and everything that moves in them. R/.
-SECOND READING-
“God’s free gift to us is nothing like our trespass against him.”
A reading from the Letter of Saint Paul to the Romans (Romans 5 :12-15)
Brethren: As sin came into the world through one man and death through sin, and so death spread to all men because all men sinned—sin indeed was in the world before the law was given, but sin is not counted where there is no law. Yet death reigned from Adam to Moses, even over those whose sins were not like the transgression of Adam, who was a type of the one who was to come. But the free gift is not like the trespass. For if many died through one man’s trespass, much more have the grace of God and the free gift in the grace of that one man Jesus Christ abounded for many.
The word of the Lord.
ALLELUIA John 15:26b.27a
Alleluia. The Spirit of truth will bear witness to me, says the Lord; and you also are witnesses. Alleluia.
Gospel
“Do not fear those who kill the body”
A reading from the Holy Gospel according to Matthew (Matthew 10:26-33)
At that time: Jesus said to his apostles, “Have no fear of men; for nothing is covered that will not be revealed, or hidden that will not be known. What I tell you in the dark, utter in the light; and what you hear whispered, proclaim upon the housetops. And do not fear those who kill the body but cannot kill the soul; rather fear him who can destroy both soul and body in hell. Are not two sparrows sold for a penny? And not one of them will fall to the ground without your father’s will. But even the hairs of your head are all numbered. Fear not, therefore; you are of more value than many sparrows. So everyone who acknowledges me before men, I also will acknowledge before my Father who is in heaven; but whoever denies me before men, I also will deny before my Father who is in heaven”
The Gospel of the Lord.
PRAYER OF THE FAITHFUL
Celebrant:
The Gospel reminds us that persecution is an integral part of the Christian life. Gathered before the Father who knows the needs of all, let us confidently ask him for strength amidst the trials of life.
FOR THE LEADERS OF THE CHURCH: that they may remain ever faithful amidst the challenges that arise from the task of shepherding the flock entrusted to their care. Let us pray to the Lord.
FOR CHRISTIANS IN CIVIL AUTHORITY: that they may fearlessly bear witness to the message of Christ in the discharge of their duties, so that, through them, the kingdom of God may be further established in the world. Let us pray to the Lord.
FOR THE WORK OF THE MISSIONS: that those who strive to propagate the kingdom of God in troubled lands may not be discouraged by the challenges of persecution, but may be guided by the strength of the Gospel. Let us pray to the Lord.
FOR OURSELVES: that our experience of suffering may help us better understand the pain of those who are going through trials, and move us to offer them our compassionate help. Let us pray to the Lord.
FOR OTHER INTENTIONS: (the sick, church projects or other activities).
FOR THE DEAD, ESPECIALLY THOSE OF OUR PARISH COMMUNITY AND FAMILY MEMBERS: that they may find eternal rest with the Lord. Let us pray to the Lord.
We pray in silence for our private intentions.
Celebrant:
Ever-living God, you are our Creator and the sustainer of our lives. Hear our prayers and grant us your grace and courage, so that in our moments of trial, we may remain faithful to you. Through Christ our Lord.
R/. Amen.
TODAY’S REFLECTION
Human being is the crown of God’s creation. The love with which God created us, and our uniqueness and worth are something beyond human comprehension. Saint John tells us that “God so loved the world that he gave his only Son, so that everyone who believes in him may not perish but may have eternal live” (3:16). What makes us so precious to God to the extent of sacrificing his only Son is not immediately known to us except that he loves us unconditionally. God is so personal to us that he tells us in today’s gospel that “even the hairs of your head are all counted”.
When we deviate from God’s love we are filled with fear. Our first parents succumbed to the temptation of becoming equal to God but, instead, realized that they were naked. Sin is our nakedness before God and through sin we alienate ourselves from God and others fear is a snare that traps and entangles us, keeping us off the path we are called to pursue. Saint John tells us that “whoever believes in the Son has eternal life; whoever disobeys the Son will not see life, but must endure God’s wrath” (3:36). He also assures us that “There is no fear in love, but perfect love casts out fear; for fear has to do with punishment and whoever fears has not reached the perfection in love” (1 Jn 4:18)
PERSONAL DEVOTIONAL
“All you that fear the Lord, wait for him to show you his mercy. Do not turn away from him, or you will fall. All you that fear the Lord, trust him, and you will certainly be rewarded. Sirach 2:7,8
- You have wandered away and fallen out of faith for long. Ask the lord for forgiveness for the length of time you have denied and rejected him.
- Your desire is to return back to the Lord, invite the Holy Spirit to lead you back to the waiting arms of the Lord.
- Pray for strength and grace to put the past behind you and look forward to a new beginning.
- Healing and restoration come from the Lord. In sincerity of heart, ask the Lord to heal and restore you.
Let Us Pray
Lord I thank you for opening my eyes to the gravity of evil that wickedness promotes. I renounce in the name of Jesus, every spirit of luke warmness in my life, every instrument of wickedness working against my life be removed now in Jesus name.
Monday June 26, 2023
Office: Psalter Week 4
Mass of the Day or Memorial
Preface of Weekday or Memorial
Vestment: Green/White
Today’s Rosary: The Joyful Mysteries
-FIRST READING-
“Abram went, as the Lord had told him.”
A reading from the Book of Genesis (Genesis 12: 1-9)
In those days: The Lord said to Abram, “Go from your country and your kindred and your father’s house to the land that I will show you. And I will make of you a great nation, and I will bless you, and make your name great, so that you will be a blessing. I will bless those who bless you, and him who curses you will I curse; and by you all the families of the earth shall bless themselves.” So Abram went, as the Lord had told him; and Lot went with him. Abram was seventy-five years old when he departed from Haran. And Abram took Sarai his wife, and Lot his brother’s son, and all their possessions which they had gathered, and the persons that they had gotten in Haran; and they set forth to go to the land of Canaan. When they had come to the land of Canaan, Abram passed through the land to the place at Shechem, to the Oak of Moreh. At that time the Canaanites were in the land. Then the Lord appeared to Abram, and said, “To your descendants I will give this land.” So he built there an altar to the Lord, who had appeared to him. Thence he moved to the mountain on the east of Bethel, and pitched his tent, with Bethel on the west and Ai on the east; and there he built an altar to the Lord and called on the name of the Lord. And Abram journeyed on, still going towards the Neged.
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Psalm 33:12-13.18-19.20 and 22(R. 12b)
R/. Blessed the people the Lord has chosen as his heritage.
Blessed the nation whose God is Lord,
The people he has chosen as his heritage.
From the heavens the Lord looks forth;
He sees all the children of men. R/.
Yes, the Lord’s eyes are on those who fear him,
Who hope in his merciful love,
To rescue their souls from death,
To keep them alive in famine. R/.
R/. Blessed the people the Lord has chosen as his heritage.
Our soul is waiting for the Lord.
He is our help and our shield.
May your merciful love be upon us,
As we hope in you, O Lord. R/.
ALLELUIA Hebrews 4:12
Alleluia. The word of the Lord is living and active, discerning the thoughts and intentions of the heart. Alleluia.
-GOSPEL-
“First take the log out of your own eye.
A reading from the holy Gospel according to Matthew (Matthew 7: 1-5)
At that time: Jesus said to his disciples, “Judge not, that you be not judged. For with the judgement you pronounce you will be judged, and the measure you give will be the measure you get. Why do you see the speck that is in your brother’s eye, but do not notice the log that is in your own eye? Or how can you say to your brother, ‘Let me take the speck out of your eye,’ when there is the log in your own eye? You hypocrite, first take the log out of your own eye, and then you will see clearly to take the speck out of your brother’s eye.”
The Gospel of the Lord.
TODAY’S REFLECTION
We are all on a journey to the world described in today’s Gospel reading – a world free from prejudice, a world where we are not quick to label and judge, and a world where we respect one another as brothers and sisters. How we judge others reveals a great deal about ourselves and our view of God. The Promised Land is not a piece of real estate but the condition of our soul. Like Abraham, we are promised marvelous things if we leave our old ways. We are promised intimacy with God, life without end and the capacity to channel God’s life to others.
PERSONAL DEVOTIONAL
“All you that fear the Lord, wait for him to show you his mercy. Do not turn away from him, or you will fall. All you that fear the Lord, trust him, and you will certainly be rewarded. Sirach 2:7, 8
- You have wandered away and fallen out of faith for long. Ask the lord for forgiveness for the length of time you have denied and rejected him.
- Your desire is to return back to the Lord, invite the Holy Spirit to lead you back to the waiting arms of the Lord.
- Pray for strength and grace to put the past behind you and look forward to a new beginning.
- Healing and restoration come from the Lord. In sincerity of heart, ask the Lord to heal and restore you.
Let Us Pray
Lord I thank you for opening my eyes to the gravity of evil that wickedness promotes. I renounce in the name of Jesus, every spirit of Luke warmness in my life, every instrument of wickedness working against my life be removed now in Jesus name.
Tuesday June 27, 2023
ST CYRIL OF ALEXANDRIA, B.M. (Opt Mem)
Office: Psalter Week 4
Mass of the Day or Memorial
Preface of Weekday or Memorial
Vestment: Green/White
Today’s Rosary: The Sorrowful Mysteries
-FIRST READING-
“Let there be no strife between you and me, for we are kinsmen.”
A reading from the Book of Genesis (Genesis 13:2.5-18)
Abram was very rich in cattle, in silver, and in gold. And Lot, who went with Abram, also had flocks and herds and tents, so that the land could not support both of them dwelling together; for their possessions were so great that they could not dwell together, and there was strife between the herdsmen of Abram’s cattle and the herdsmen of Lot’s cattle. At that time the Canaanites and the Perizzites dwelt in the land. Then Abram said to Lot, “Let there be no strife between you and me, and between your herdsmen and my herdsmen; for we are kinsmen. Is not the whole land before you? Separate yourself from me. If you take the left hand, then I will go the right; or if you take the right hand, then I will go to the left.” And Lot lifted up his eyes, and saw that the Jordan valley was well watered everywhere like the garden of the LORD, like the land of Egypt, in the direction of Zoar; this was before the LORD destroyed Sodom and Gomorrah. So Lot chose for himself all the Jordan valley, and Lot journeyed east; thus they separated from each other. Abram dwelt in the land of Canaan, while Lot dwelt among the cities of the valley and moved his tent as far as Sodom. Now the men of Sodom were wicked, great sinners against the LORD. The Lord said to Abram, after Lot had separated from him, “Lift up your eyes, and look from the place where you are, northward and southward and eastward and westward; for all the land which you see I will give to you and to your descendants for ever. I will make your descendants as the dust of the earth; so that if one can count the dust of the earth, your descendants also can be counted. Arise, walk through the length and the breadth of the land, for I will give it to you.” So Abram moved his tent, and came and dwelt by the oaks of Mamre, which are at Hebron; and there he built an altar to the Lord.
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Psalm 15:2-3a.3bc-4ab.5 (R. 1 a)
R/. Lord, who may abide in your tent?
Whoever walks without fault;
who does what is just,
and speaks the truth from his heart.
Who does not slander with his tongue. R/.
Who does no wrong to a neighbour,
who casts no slur on a friend,
who looks with scorn on the wicked,
but honours those who fear the Lord. R/.
R/. Lord, who may abide in your tent?
Who lends no money at interest,
and accepts no bribes against the innocent.
Such a one shall never be shaken. R/.
ALLELUIA John 8:12
Alleluia. I am the light of the world, says the Lord; he who follows me will have the light of life. Alleluia.
-GOSPEL-
“Whatever you wish that men would do to you, do so to them.”
A reading from the holy Gospel according to Matthew (Matthew 7:6. 12-14)
At that time: Jesus said to his disciples, “Do not give dogs what is holy; and do not throw your pearls before swine, lest they trample them under foot and turn to attack you. So whatever you wish that men would do to you, do so to them; for this is the law and the prophets. Enter by the narrow gate; for the gate is wide and the way is easy, that leads to destruction, and those who enter by it are many. For the gate is narrow and the way is hard, that leads to life, and those who find it are few.”
The Gospel of the Lord.
TODAY’S REFLECTION
No one wants to be considered narrow; we like to think of ourselves as broad-minded and inclusive in our approach to life. However, the Gospel reading this morning suggests that in following the lord a certain narrowness of focus is called for. Saying ‘Yes’ to the Lord’s way requires our saying ‘no’ to a lot of other ways. Jesus reassures us that this narrowing down in following him ultimately leads to a great expansiveness, the great expanse of eternal life. The gate may be narrow but, if we faithfully try to enter through it, it leads us to abundance of life.
PERSONAL DEVOTIONAL
Dreams, divination, and omens are all nonsense. You see in them only what you want to see. Unless the Most High has sent you the dream, pay no attention to it - Sirach 34:5,6
Pray for the Lord to direct your footsteps and give you the grace to have undivided attention in his service….
Let Us Pray
Gracious and holy Father, please give me: intellect to understand you, reason to discern you; diligence to seek you; wisdom to find you; a spirit to know you; a heart to meditate upon you; ears to hear you; eyes to see you; a tongue to proclaim you; a way of life pleasing to you; patience to wait for you; and perseverance to look for you. Grant me: a perfect end, your holy presence. A blessed resurrection, and life everlasting. Amen
Wednesday June 28, 2023
ST IRENAEUS, B AND M. (MEM)
Office: Psalter Week 4
Mass and Preface of the Memorial
Vestment: Red
Today’s Rosary: The Glorious Mysteries
Vespers I of the Solemnity of Ss Peter and Paul
VIGIL OF ST. PETER AND S. PAUL, APP
-FIRST READING-
Abraham believed in God, and it was reckoned to him as righteousness (Romans 4. 36), and the Lord made a covenant with him.
A reading from the Book of Genesis (Genesis 15:1-12.17-18)
In those days: It happened that the word of the Lord came to Abram in a vision, “Fear not, Abram, I am your shield; your reward shall be very great.” But Abram said, “O Lord GOD, what will you give me, for I continue childless, and the heir of my house is Elieze of Damascus?” And Abram said, “Behold, you have given me no offspring; and a slave born in my house will be my heir.” And behold, the word of the Lord came to him, “This man shall not be your heir; your own son shall be your heir.” And he brought him outside and said, “Look towards heaven, and number the stars, if you are able to number them.” Then he said to him, “So shall your descendants be.” And he believed the Lord; and he reckoned it to him as righteousness. And he said to him, “I am the Lord who brought you from Ur of the Chaldeans, to give you this land to possess.” But he said, “O Lord GOD, how am I to know that I shall possess it?” He said to him, “Bring me a heifer three years old, a she-goat three years old, a ram three years old, a turtledove, and a young pigeon.” And he brought him all these, cut them in two, and laid each half over against the other; but he did not cut the birds in two. And when birds of prey came upon the carcasses, Abram drove them away. As the sun was going down, a deep sleep fell on Abram; and behold, a dread and great darkness fell upon him. When the sun had gone down and it was dark, behold, a smoking fire pot and a flaming torch passed between these pieces. On that day the Lord made a covenant with Abram, saying, “To your descendants I give this land, from the river of Egypt to the great river, the river of Euphrates.”
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Psalm 105:1-2.5-4.6-7.8-9 (R. 8a)
R/. The Lord remembers his covenant forever.
Or: Alleluia.
Give thanks to the Lord; proclaim his name.
Make known his deeds among the peoples.
O sing to him, sing his praise;
tell all his wonderful works! R/.
Glory in his holy name;
let the hearts that seek the Lord rejoice.
Turn to the Lord and his strength;
constantly seek his face. R/.
R/. The Lord remembers his covenant forever.
Or: Alleluia.
O children of Abraham, his servant,
O descendants of the Jacob he chose,
he, the Lord, is our God;
his judgements are in all the earth. R/.
He remembers his covenant forever:
the promise he ordained for a thousand generations,
the covenant he made with Abraham,
the oath he swore to Isaac. R/.
ALLELUIA John 15:4a.5b
Alleluia. Abide in me, and I in you, says the Lord; he who abides in me bears much fruit. Alleluia.
-GOSPEL-
“You will know then by their fruits.”
A reading from the holy Gospel according to Matthew (Matthew 7:15-20)
At that time: Jesus said to his disciples, “Beware of false prophets, who come to you in sheep’s clothing but inwardly are ravenous wolves. You will know them by their fruits. Are grapes gathered from thorns, or figs from thistles? So, every sound tree bears good fruit, but the bad tree bears evil fruit. A sound tree cannot bear evil fruit, nor can a bad tree bear good fruit. Every tree that does not bear good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire. Thus you will know them by their fruits.”
The Gospel of the Lord.
TODAY’S REFLECTION
The Lord offers us a quick course in distinguishing between true and false prophets. We need prophets to highlight God’s presence to us; yet prophets of every stripe abound and we require some criteria to test them. The first condition Jesus gives is to look at the person’s lifestyle. The quality of the heart is revealed through the quality of someone’s life. Does the person’s preaching resonate in his or her life? “you will be able to tell by the fruits.” The second test is to examine what the prophet offers: cheap grace, easy religion and shallow spiritual experience, or the demanding avenue of personal conversion and soul-stirring prayer?
PERSONAL DEVOTIONAL
“So then, our brothers and sisters, stand firm and hold on to those truths which we taught you, both in our preaching and in our letters”
- Pray that God will break every yoke of anxiety, fear and worries in your life.
- What are the issues causing you sleepless nights? Surrender them to God NOW. Ask him to take control.
- O Lord, turn your glorious face of compassion on all the users of the application seeking the fruit of the wombs, that they may be blessed.
Let Us Pray
O Christ Jesus, when all is darkness and we feel our weakness and helplessness, give us the sense of your presence, your love, and your strength. Help us to have perfect trust in your protecting love and strengthening power, so that nothing may frighten or worry us, for, living close to you, we shall see your hand, your purpose, your will through all things. In the name of Jesus. Amen
Thursday June 29, 2023
SS PETER AND PAUL APP (SOLEMNITY)
Office: Proper, Te Deum
Mass prop. Gloria. Creed.
Preface of St Peter and Paul
Vestment: Red
Today’s Rosary: The Luminous Mysteries
Vespers I of the Solemnity of Ss Peter and Paul
ENTRANCE ANTIPHON
These are the ones who, living in the flesh, planted the Church with their blood; they drank the chalice of the Lord and became the friends of God.
COLLECT
O God, who on the solemnity of the Apostles Peter and Paul, give us the noble and holy joy of this day, grant, we pray, that your Church may in all things follow the teaching of those through whom she received the beginnings of right religion. Through our Lord. .
The Gloria
When indicated this hymn is either sung or said
Glory to God in the highest,
and on earth peace to people of good will.
We bless you,
we adore you,
we glorify you,
we give you thanks for your great glory,
Lord God, heavenly King,
O God, almighty Father.
Lord Jesus Christ, Only Begotten Son,
Lord God, Lamb of God, Son of the Father,
you take away the sins of the world, have mercy on us;
you take away the sins of the world, receive our prayer;
you are seated at the right hand of the Father, have mercy on us.
For you alone are the Holy One, you alone are the Lord,
you alone are the Most High,
Jesus Christ, with the Holy Spirit,
in the glory of God the Father. Amen.
-FIRST READING-
“Now I am sure that the Lord has rescued me from the hand of Herod.”
A reading from the Acts of the Apostles (Acts 12: 1- 11)
In those days: Herod the king laid violent hands upon some who belonged to the Church. He killed James the brother of John with the sword; and when he saw that it pleased the Jews, he proceeded to arrest Peter also. This was during the days of Unleavened Bread. And when he had seized him, he put him in prison, and delivered him to four squads of soldiers to guard him, intending after the Passover to bring him out to the people. So Peter was kept in prison; but earnest prayer for him was made to God by the Church. The very night when Herod was about to bring him out, Peter was sleeping between two soldiers, bound with two chains, and sentries before the door were guarding the prison; and behold, an angel of the Lord appeared, and a light shone in the cell; and he struck Peter on the side and woke him, saying, “Get up quickly.” And the chains fell off his hands. And the angel said to him, “Dress yourself and put on your sandals.” And he did so. And he said to him, “Wrap your cloak around you and follow me.” And he went out and followed him; he did not know that what was done by the angel was real, but thought he was seeing a vision. When they had passed the first and the second guard, they came to the Iron Gate leading into the city. It opened to them of its own accord, and they went out and passed on through one street; and immediately the angel left him. And Peter came to himself, and said, “Now I am sure that the Lord has sent his angel and rescued me from the hand of Herod and from all that the Jewish people were expecting.”
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Ps 34:2-3.4-5.6-7.5-9 (R. cf. 5b)
R/. From all my terrors, the Lord set me free.
I will bless the Lord at all times,
praise of him is always in my mouth.
In the Lord my soul shall make its boast;
the humble shall hear and be glad. R/.
Glorify the Lord with me;
together let us praise his name.
I sought the Lord, and he answered me;
from all my terrors he set me free. R/.
Look towards him and be radiant;
let your faces not be abashed.
This lowly one called; the Lord heard,
and rescued him from all his distress. R/.
The angel of the Lord is encamped
around those who fear him, to rescue them.
Taste and see that the Lord is good.
Blessed the man who seeks refuge in him. R/.
-SECOND READING-
“From now on there is laid up for me the crown of righteousness.”
A reading from the second Letter of Saint Paul to Timothy (2 Timothy 4:6-8, 17- 18)
Beloved: I am already on the point of being sacrificed; the time of my departure has come. I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. From now on there is laid up for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, will award to me on that Day, and not only to me but also to all who have loved his appearing. But the Lord stood by me and gave me strength to proclaim the word fully, that all the Gentiles might hear it. So I was rescued from the lion’s mouth. The Lord will rescue me from every evil and save me for his heavenly kingdom. To him be the glory for ever and ever. Amen.
The word of the Lord.
ALLELUIA Cf. Matthew 16:18
Alleluia. You are Peter, and on this rock I will build my Church, and the gates of Hades shall not prevail against it. Alleluia.
-GOSPEL-
“You are Peter and I will give you the keys of the kingdom of heaven.”
A reading from the holy Gospel according to Matthew (Matthew 16:13-19)
At that time: When Jesus came into the district of Caesarea Philippi, he asked his disciples, “Who do men say that the Son of man is?” And they said, “Some say John the Baptist, others say Elijah, and others Jeremiah or one of the prophets.” He said to them, “But who do you say that I am?” Simon Peter replied, “You are the Christ, the Son of the living God.” And Jesus answered him, “Blessed are you, Simon Bar’Jona! For flesh and blood has not revealed this to you, but my Father who is in heaven. And I tell you, you are Peter, and on this rock I will build my Church, and the gates of Hades shall not prevail against it. I will give you the keys of the kingdom of heaven, and whatever you bind on earth shall be bound in heaven, and whatever you loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven.”
The Gospel of the Lord.
The Creed (I Believe)
I believe in one God, the Father almighty, maker of heaven and earth, of all things visible and invisible. I believe in one Lord Jesus Christ, the Only Begotten Son of God, born of the Father before all ages. God from God, Light from Light, true God from true God, begotten, not made, consubstantial with the Father; through him all things were made. For us men and for our salvation he came down from heaven, and by the Holy Spirit was incarnate of the Virgin Mary, and became man. For our sake he was crucified under Pontius Pilate, he suffered death and was buried, and rose again on the third day in accordance with the Scriptures. He ascended into heaven and is seated at the right hand of the Father. He will come again in glory to judge the living and the dead and his kingdom will have no end. I believe in the Holy Spirit, the Lord, the giver of life, who proceeds from the Father and the Son, who with the Father and the Son is adored and glorified, who has spoken through the prophets. I believe in one, holy, catholic and apostolic Church. I confess one Baptism for the forgiveness of sins and I look forward to the resurrection of the dead and the life of the world to come. Amen.
PRAYER OF THE FAITHFUL
Celebrant:
As we gather today to celebrate the triumph of God’s love in the lives of Saints Peter and Paul, let us present our petitions to God in faith.
FOR THE POPE: that, like Saints Peter and Paul and guided by the Holy Spirit, he may remain ever committed to teaching the faith handed to him by Christ. We pray O Lord.
FOR CIVIL AUTHORITIES: that they may safeguard the freedom of individuals and communities to teach and practice their religion and, thus, create a good environment for the further establishment of Christ’s kingdom on earth. We pray O Lord.
FOR MISSIONARIES, ESPECIALLY THOSE WORKING IN DIFFICULT AND CHALLENGING SITUATIONS: that they may be given divine assistance to overcome the challenges they face in their efforts to bring Christ into hungry and thirsty souls. We pray O Lord.
FOR AN INCREASE IN VOCATIONS: that through the example of saints Peter and Paul, young Christians in our community may be filled with zeal to respond to God’s call. We pray O Lord.
For other intentions: (the sick, church projects or other activities).
For the dead, especially those of our parish community and family members: that they may find eternal rest with the Lord. We pray O Lord.
We pray in silence for our private intentions.
Celebrant:
Almighty God and Father, may the lives of these two princes of the Apostles, saints Peter and Paul, awaken in us the truth, so that we may become zealous in propagating the Gospel. Through Christ our Lord.
R/. Amen.
TODAY’S REFLECTION
The feast of the apostles Peter and Paul is a reminder that God doesn’t choose perfect persons to be His apostles. Jesus gives Simon the name ‘Peter’ (Rock), and makes him the leader of the twelve and his vicar. He is a weak and impetuous man, yet Christ invests him with the authority to guide and govern his church. Saul persecuted the early Christians, believing that he was rendering service to God. Jesus appears to him on the road to Damascus and transforms his life radically. He will, by God’s grace, become the apostles to the nations.
Like Peter and Paul, if we allow Jesus to touch our lives despite our imperfections, fears and doubts, he can transform us into his witnesses and make us instruments of salvation for others.
PERSONAL DEVOTIONAL
“Listen to me, Lord, and answer me, for I am helpless and weak. Save me from death, because I am loyal to you; save me, for I am your servant and I trust in you.” Psalm 86:1, 2
- Thank you Jesus for your power is made manifest in my weakness in the name of Jesus.
- I am healed by the stripes of Jesus, Jesus carried my sickness and infirmities in the name of Jesus.
- I break, rebuke and cast out every spirit of discomfort deposited into my body by the power of darkness. Wherever they are located. (Place your right hand wherever you feel the pain) I call down the healing power and Fire of God upon it in the name of Jesus.
Let Us Pray
O Holy Spirit, beloved of my soul, I adore you. Enlighten me, guide me, strengthen me, and console me. Tell me what I should do; give me your orders. I promise to submit myself to all that you desire of me and to accept all that you permit to happen to me. Let me only know your will. Amen
Friday June 30, 2023
FIRST MARTYRS OF THE CHURCH OF ROME (Opt. Mem.)
Office: Psalter Week 4
Mass of the Day or Memorial
Preface of Weekday or Memorial
Vestment: Green
Today’s Rosary: The Sorrowful Mysteries
NINE DAY MID-YEAR PRAYERS FOR DIVINE STRENGTH
(1st July - 9th July 2023)
"The Lord is my strength and my shield; my heart trusts in him, and he helps me..... The Lord is the strength of his people, a fortress of salvation for his anointed one." Psalm 28:7-8 With God's strength we can overcome all things.
In this mid year prayers come lets draw strength from the Lord, strength beyond what the natural man can claim.
Participate actively in this program from Saturday 1st July through Sunday 9th July. God will richly bless and strength you in Jesus' name. Amen.
-FIRST READING-
“Every male among you shall be circumcised. Sarah shall bear you a
A reading from the Book of Genesis (Genesis 17:1.9-10.15-22)
When Abram was ninety-nine years old the Lord appeared to Abram, and said to him, “I am God Almighty; walk before me, and be blameless.” And God said to Abraham, “As for you, you shall keep my covenant, you and your descendants after you throughout their generations. This is my covenant, which you shall keep, between me and you and your descendants after you: Every male among you shall be circumcised.” And God said to Abraham, “As for Sarai your wife, you shall not call her name Sarai, but Sarah shall be her name. I will bless her, and moreover I will give you a son by her; I will bless her, and she shall be a mother of nations; kings of peoples shall come from her.” Then Abraham fell on his face and laughed, and said to himself, “Shall a child be born to a man who is a hundred years old? Shall Sarah, who is ninety years old, bear a child?” And Abraham said to God, “O that Ishmael might live in your sight!” God said, “No, but Sarah your wife shall bear you a son, and you shall call his name Isaac. I will establish my covenant with him as an everlasting covenant for his descendants after him. As for Ishmael, I have heard you; behold, I will bless him and make him fruitful and multiply him exceedingly; he shall be the father of twelve princes, and I will make him a great nation. But I will establish my covenant with Isaac, whom Sarah shall bear to you at this season next year.” When he had finished talking with him, God went up from Abraham.
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Psalm 128:1-2.3.4-5 (R. 4)
R/. Indeed thus shall be blessed the man who fears the Lord.
Blessed are all who fear the Lord,
and walk in his ways!
By the labour of your hands you shall eat.
You will be blessed and prosper. R/.
Your wife like a fruitful vine
in the heart of your house;
your children like shoots of the olive
around your table. R/.
R/. Indeed thus shall be blessed the man who fears the Lord.
Indeed thus shall be blessed the man who fears the Lord.
May the Lord bless you from Sion.
May you see Jerusalem prosper
all the days of your life! R/.
ALLELUIA Matthew 8:17
Alleluia. Christ took our infirmities and bore our diseases.
Alleluia.
-GOSPEL-
“If you will, you can make me clean.”
A reading from the holy Gospel according to Matthew (Matthew 8: 1-4)
When Jesus came down from the mountain, great crowds followed him; and behold, a leper came to him and knelt before him, saying, “Lord, if you will, you can make me clean.” And he stretched out his hand and touched him, saying, “I will; be clean.” And immediately his leprosy was cleansed. And Jesus said to him, “See that you say nothing to any one; but go, show yourself to the priest, and offer the gift that Moses commanded, for a proof to the people.”
The Gospel of the Lord.
TODAY’S REFLECTION
The Gospel reveals that Jesus does not hesitate to touch our lives even when we are at our most unlovable and unattractive. His passionate concern for our well-being knows no barrier. He is not afraid of being contaminated by us, but enters fully into the dark, forbidding places of our personal and communal lives with his healing and life-giving presence. He wants to touch our lives as we are, not as we should be or could be. We need to approach him with the same determination as that leper.
PERSONAL DEVOTIONAL
“Be careful, however, not to let your freedom of action make those who are weak in the faith fall into sin. Suppose a person whose conscience is weak in this matter sees you, who have so-called “knowledge”, eating in the temple of an idol; will not this encourage him to eat food offered to idols? And in this way you will be sinning against Christ by sinning against your Christian brothers and sisters and wounding their weak conscience…. 1 Corinthians 8: 9ff
Let Us Pray
Lord, lead us and guide us, let not our actions and inactions lead others to sin in Jesus name. Amen
Saturday July 1, 2023
B.V.M. on Saturday
Office: Psalter Week 4
Mass of the day or BVM
Preface of Weekday or BVM
Vestment: Green/White
Today’s Rosary: The Joyful Mystery
Vespers 1 of the 13th Sunday of the Year
NINE DAY MID-YEAR PRAYERS FOR DIVINE STRENGTH “Psalm 28:7-8” 1st July – 9th July 2023
DAY 1:
Personal Prayers and Invitation of Divine Presence (Psalm 140:1 and 13)
-FIRST READING-
“Is anything too hard for the Lord? At the appointed time I will return to you, and Sarah shall have a son.”
A reading from the Book of Genesis (Genesis 18:1-15)
In those days: The Lord appeared to Abraham by the Oaks of Mamre, as he sat at the door of his tent in the heat of the day. He lifted up his eyes and looked, and behold, three men stood in front of him. When he saw them, he ran from the tent door to meet them, and bowed himself to the earth, and said, “My lord, if I have found favour in your sight, do not pass by your servant. Let a little water be brought, and wash your feet, and rest yourselves under the tree, while I fetch a morsel of bread, that you may refresh yourselves, and after that you may pass on — since you have come to your servant.” So they said, “Do as you have said.” And Abraham hastened into the tent to Sarah, and said, “Make ready quickly three measures of fine meal, knead it, and make cakes.” And Abraham ran to the herd, and took a calf, tender and good, and gave it to the servant, who hastened to prepare it. Then he took curds, and milk, and the calf which he had prepared, and set it before them; and he stood by them under the tree while they ate. They said to him, “Where is Sarah your wife?” And he said, “She is in the tent.” The Lord said, “I will surely return to you in the spring, and Sarah your wife shall have a son.” And Sarah was listening at the tent door behind him. Now Abraham and Sarah were old, advanced in age; it had ceased to be with Sarah after the manner of women. So Sarah laughed to herself, saying; “After I have grown old, and my husband is old, shall I have pleasure?” The Lord said to Abraham, “Why did Sarah laugh, and say, ‘Shall I indeed bear a child, now that I am old?’ Is anything too hard for the Lord? At the appointed time I will return to you, in the spring, and Sarah shall have a son.” But Sarah denied, saying, “I did not laugh”; for she was afraid. He said, “No, but you did laugh.”
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Luke 1:46-47.48-49.50 and 53.54-55(R. 54b)
R/. The Lord has remembered his mercy.
My soul magnifies the Lord,
And my spirit rejoices in God my Saviour. R/.
For he has regarded the low estate of his handmaiden.
For behold, henceforth all generations will call me blessed:
for he who is mighty has done great things for me,
and holy is his name. R.
R/. The Lord has remembered his mercy.
And his mercy is on those who fear him
from generation to generation.
He has filled the hungry with good things,
and the rich he has sent empty away. R.
He has helped his servant Israel,
in remembrance of his mercy,
as he spoke to our fathers,
to Abraham and to his posterity for ever. R.
ALLELUIA Matthew 8:17
Alleluia. Christ took our infirmities and bore our diseases. Alleluia.
-GOSPEL-
“Many will come from east and west and sit at table with Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob.”
A reading from the holy Gospel according to Matthew (Matthew 8:5-17)
At that time: As Jesus entered Capernaum, a centurion came forward to him, begging him and saying, “Lord, my servant is lying paralysed at home, in terrible distress.” And he said to him, “I will come and heal him.” But the centurion answered him, “Lord, I am not worthy to have you come under my roof; but only say the word, and my servant will be healed. For I am a man under authority, with soldiers under me; and I say to one, ‘Go,’ and he goes, and to another, ‘Come,’ and he comes, and to my slave, ‘Do this,’ and he does it.” When Jesus heard him, he marvelled, and said to those who followed him, “Truly, I say to you, not even in Israel have I found such faith. I tell you, many will come from east and west and sit at table with Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob in the kingdom of heaven, while the sons of the kingdom will be thrown into the outer darkness; there men will weep and quash their teeth.” And to the centurion Jesus said, “Go; let it be done for you as you have believed.” And the servant was healed at that very moment. And when Jesus entered Peter’s house, he saw his mother-in-law lying sick with a fever; he touched her hand, and the fever left her, and she rose and served him. That evening they brought to him many who were possessed with demons; and he cast out the spirits with a word, and healed all who were sick. This was to fulfil what was spoken by the prophet Isaiah, “He took our infirmities and bore our diseases.”
The Gospel of the Lord.
TODAY’S REFLECTION
The humility of the centurion is noteworthy. His expression has been imprinted on our hearts through our Eucharistic worship when we pray: “Lord, I am not worthy to receive you…” Apart from humility, we see in the centurion the extraordinary love of one who goes to Jesus on behalf of a servant. We see his great respect; his awareness that a Jew who entered his home would be considered as defiled. We see a wise person making good use of his own experience in coming to understand others. Finally, we see the quality that amazes Jesus: his faith. We can discern a composite of virtues in the centurion. Let us reflect in gratitude upon our own stores of these qualities of heart, mind, reason and will, and how we might use them more creatively to build God’s Kingdom.
Today’s Saint and Quote: St Junipero Serra – July 1st
All my life I have wanted to be a missionary. I have wanted to carry the gospel message to those who have never heard of God and the kingdom he has prepared for them.
Saturday 1ST DAY 1:
PERSONAL PRAYERS AND INVITATION OF DIVINE PRESENCE (Psalm 140:1 and 13)
OPENING
In the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, Amen.
INVOCATION OF THE HOLY SPIRIT
Come, O Holy Spirit, fill the hearts of the faithful and kindle in them the fire of your love.
Send forth your Spirit and they shall be created.
And you shall renew the face of the earth.
Let us pray:
O God, who taught the hearts of the faithful by the light of the Holy Spirit, grant that by the gift of the same Spirit we may be always truly wise and ever rejoice in his consolation, Through Christ Lord. Amen.
God, I need comfort in my own life, in the world around me, it seems that everything has gone from bad to worse. I know you are the source of my strength and my Great Comforter. Lord, I would be lying if I said that I am undergoing easy or prosperous times. The world around me, even within my own home, seems to have been thrown into chaos. God, I need your strength and comfort to rest on me during these uncertain and difficult times. Amen.
PRAYER POINTS:
- O God, hear my cry, cover me with your mercy, in the name of Jesus. Micah 7:18-19
- Confess your sins and plead for God’s mercy. (1 Jn.1:8- 9),
- Father, in your mercy, visit my life and remove every obstacle standing between me and you. (Psalm 51:7-12)
- Lord, purge me of all sins and of wrong steps taken by me within the past months and years.
- Father have mercy on me and reverse every irreversible ways in my life this year. (Ezek. 37:1-12),
- Father forgives me for all my acts of unfaithfulness. (Mention areas), have mercy upon me, in the mighty name of Jesus. (Psalms 51:1)
- Show me your mercy and lead me in the right path in my business, family and office, in the name of Jesus. 1 John 1:9
Father help me to forgive all those who offended me so that I myself can receive forgiveness Matt 6:14-15, Mark 11:25, Col 3:13.
Holy Spirit; perfect your work in my life. Admonish me of sin, don’t let me be condemned with the world.
- Ask God for help from any area you PERSONALLY need help. (Ps. 108:12),
- Bless the name of the Lord for his protection over you and your family in past years, especially for this first half of the year 2021. (Ps 124)
Let us thank God for keeping us safe and not allowing the scourge of insecurity in the country to consume us.
REFLECTION:
- Father, please go with me in the journey of my life all through. (Exodus 33:14-19)
- Father; wherever your presence cannot be, restrain my feet from going there also.
- O my Father helps me to dwell in your presence always. Psalms 91:1
- Father; let me under the covering of your shadows. Psalm 91:1
- Father; let your angel encamp around me in all my ways
CLOSING
Father, my Lord and my God, my Almighty redeemer and my strength, my soul is worn-out right now. I’m stuck in uncertainty and go round and round towards fear and panic. But, I remember who I serve: God, who hasn’t given me a spirit of fear but of power, love, and a sound mind. God, who knows the end from the beginning, for whom none of this is a surprise. God, whose plans are for my hopeful future, and not for evil.
So now, in the middle of my uncertain circumstance, Lord—in the middle of my pain—I pray for Your strengthening love to help my unbelief. Help me be my own witness, Jesus, as I recall past times when You rescued me. When you protected and set me on the path to victory.
Thank you for your full armor, your name, your most precious Blood and your Holy Spirit. No weapon formed against me shall prosper.
Thank you heavenly father for all your protection and provisions, for yours is the kingdom, the power and the glory, now and forevermore. Amen.
PRAYER OF CONFIRMATION AND TRUST IN GOD
Lord, God Almighty, I thank you for protecting me from every form of evil and bringing me the gift of your divine health. I thank you for breaking the chains of oppression and delivering me from every form of sin, sickness, disease and lie of the enemy.
I thank you for the powerful name of Jesus to which every knee shall bow. Thank you for giving me your authority over all the power of the enemy. Nothing shall harm me.
Thank you for your full armor, your name, your most precious Blood and your Holy Spirit. No weapon formed against me shall prosper. Thank you heavenly father for all your protection and provisions, for yours is the kingdom, the power and the glory, now and forevermore. Amen.
Sunday July 2, 2023
Thirteenth Sunday of the Year
V1-, V2-, R1 +, R1-,
Office: Psalter Week 1, Te Deum
Mass prop; Gloria. Creed.
Preface of Sunday
Vestment: Green
Today’s Rosary: The Glorious Mystery
Vespers II of the 14th Sunday of the Year
NINE DAY MID-YEAR PRAERS FOR DIVINE STRENGTH
“Psalm 28:7-8” 1st July – 9th July 2023
DAY 2: GODS FORGIVENESS THROUGH GOD’S MERCY
God’s forgiveness and grace is bigger than any sin you might have committed, You cannot change the past, but you can change your actions and thoughts as you move forward, to conform with God’s.
THEME OF THE SUNDAY: The Glass of Water Given to the Prophet.
The first reading and the second part of the gospel of today tell us about a problem which is our attitude towards those who devote their lives to the proclamation of salvation. The second reading could be seen under this light too since it speaks of entry into the new lite of baptism. This sacrament demands generosity towards those who have pledged their lives to the gospel.'
ENTRANCE ANTIPHON Ps 46:2
All peoples, clap your hands. Cry to God with shouts of joy!
COLLECT
O God, who through the grace of adoption chose us to be children of light, grant, we pray, that we may not be wrapped in the darkness of error but always be seen to stand in the bright light of truth. Through our Lord...
-FIRST READING-
“That is the holy man of God, let him remain there.”
A reading from the second Book of Kings (2Kings 4:8-11.14-16a)
One day Elisha went on to Shunem, where a wealthy woman lived, who urged him to eat some food. So whenever he passed that way, he would turn in there to eat food. And she said to her husband, “Behold now, I perceive that this is a holy man of God, who is continually passing our way. Let us make a small roof chamber with walls, and put there for him a bed, a table, a chair, and a lamp, so that whenever he comes to us, he can go in there.” One day he came there, and he turned into the chamber and rested there. And he said to Gehazi his servant, “What is to be done for her?” Gehazi answered, “Well, she has no son, and her husband is old.” He said, “Call her.” And when he had called her, she stood in the door way. And he said, “At this season, when the time comes round, you shall embrace a son.”
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Psalm 89:2-3.16-17. 1 8- 19 (R .cf. 2a)
R/. I will sing forever of your mercies, O Lord.
I will sing forever of your mercies, O Lord;
through all ages my mouth will proclaim your fidelity.
I have declared your mercy is established forever;
your fidelity stands firm as the heavens. R/.
How blessed the people who know your praise,
who walk, O Lord, in the light of your face,
who find their joy every day in your name,
who make your justice their joyful acclaim. R/.
R/. I will sing forever of your mercies, O Lord.
For you are the glory of their strength;
By your favour it is that our might is exalted.
Behold, the Lord is our shield;
He is the Holy One of Israel, our king. R/.
-SECOND READING-
“Having been buried with him by baptism, let us walk in newness of life.”
A reading from the Letter of Saint Paul to the Romans (Romans 6:3-4.8-11)
Brethren: All of us who have been baptised into Christ Jesus were baptised into his death. We were buried therefore with him by baptism into death, so that as Christ was raised from the dead by the glory of the Father, we too might walk in newness of life. But if we have died with Christ, we believe that we shall also live with him. For we know that Christ being raised from the dead will never die again; death no longer has dominion over him. The death he died he died to sin, once for all, but the life he lives he lives to God. So you also must consider yourselves dead to sin and alive to God in Christ Jesus.
The word of the Lord.
ALLELUIA 1 Peter2:9
Alleluia. You are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation; declare the wonderful deeds of him who called you out of darkness into his marvelous light. Alleluia.
-GOSPEL-
He who does not take his cross is not worthy of me. He who receives you, receives me.”
A reading from the holy Gospel according to Matthew (Matthew 10:37-42)
At that time: Jesus said to his apostles, “He who loves father or mother more than me is not worthy of me; and he who loves son or daughter more than me is not worthy of me; and he who does not take his cross and follow me is not worthy of me. He who finds his life will lose it, and he who loses his life for my sake will find it. “He who receives you receives me, and he who receives me receives him who sent me. He who receives a prophet because he is a prophet shall receive a prophet’s reward, and he who receives a righteous man because he is a righteous man shall receive a righteous man’s reward. And whoever gives to one of these little ones even a cup of cold water because he is a disciple, truly, I say to you, he shall not lose his reward.”
The Gospel of the Lord.
PRAYER OF THE FAITHFUL
Celebrant:
Our Lord Jesus Christ invites us to follow him with unwavering devotion and to love him above all else. Let us ask him for the grace to be able to respond adequately to this call.
For the church: that her members may respond faithfully to God’s summons to put aside the deeds of darkness and enter into his marvelous light. We pray O Lord.
For political leaders: that the Gospel message may penetrate and enlighten their hearts and minds, so that they may work for the good of all. We pray O Lord.
For couples experiencing childlessness: that their marriage will be blessed with god-fearing children who will fulfil God’s will and serve him all the days of their lives. We pray O Lord.
For ourselves: that we may respond to the call of Jesus to follow him by detaching ourselves from distractions that hinder us from answering this call wholeheartedly. We pray O Lord.
For other intentions: (the sick, church projects or other activities).
For the dead, especially those of our parish community and family members: that they may find eternal rest with the Lord. We pray O Lord.
We pray in silence for our private intentions.
Celebrant:
Gracious God, your fidelity stands firm as the heavens. We humbly pray that you grant us the grace to become authentic disciples of Jesus Christ in our every word and deed. Through Christ our Lord.
R/. Amen.
TODAY’S REFLECTION
To be a disciple of Jesus, on should possess the attitude, character and purpose of Jesus. Jesus lived a life of total availability and became a compassionate and healing shoulder for the other to lean on; he lived and shared the love of the Father, becoming the food and drink of the other and sacrificing his life on the cross to redeem us. Jesus categorically stated that whoever wants to be his disciples should take up the cross and follow him. Any attachment to parents, siblings, property or anything else will disqualify us from becoming disciples of Jesus. The only attachment we should have in following Jesus is to Jesus himself. Today we speak of the need to have credible and faithful witnesses in the church, but hardly find any. The real reason is that we have become regrets in the presence of God (Cfr 1 Sam 15:11) as we live a life according to the standards of the world. When Jesus made us his disciples he anointed us with his power to baptize, cast out demons, heal the sick, and bring the gospel to the nations. However, like the Pharisees and others during the time of Jesus, we too clamour for a cross-less life and choose the values of the world, forgetting the fact that we are called to represent Jesus here on earth. Let us ask ourselves: what is our greatest love? Is it Jesus?
NINE DAY MID-YEAR PRAERS FOR DIVINE STRENGTH “Psalm 28:7-8” 1st July – 9th July 2023
DAY 2: GODS FORGIVENESS THROUGH GOD’S MERCY
God’s forgiveness and grace is bigger than any sin you might have committed, You cannot change the past, but you can change your actions and thoughts as you move forward, to conform with God’s.
Opening
In the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, Amen.
Invocation of the Holy Spirit
Come, O Holy Spirit, fill the hearts of the faithful
and kindle in them the fire of your love.
Send forth your Spirit and they shall be created.
And you shall renew the face of the earth.
Let Us Pray
O God, who taught the hearts of the faithful by the light of the Holy Spirit, grant that by the gift of the same Spirit we may be always truly wise and ever rejoice in his consolation, Through Christ Lord. Amen.
Self-Examination
Tell God about your pain—for you, not for Him, since He already knows more about what’s in your heart than you do.
Ask God for what you need—and hold loosely to your expectations for how and when He’ll rescue you.
Remember who God is to you—a fortress sheltering you from the storm.
Declare your trust in God—make an intentional, faith-based decision.
Praise God for His faithful love—do it to remind yourself of God’s character, and to uplift your soul.
Prayer Point:
Reflection:
Total remission from sins that held us bound is the exclusive of God’s mercy. His mercy is capable of granting us release from the punishment of our wrong actions or inactions.
Lam. 3:22-23, John 8:1-11, Ps. 130:1-8, rom. 4:4, Ps. 32:2.
CLOSING:
Father, my Lord and my God, my Almighty redeemer and my strength, my soul is worn-out right now. I’m stuck in uncertainty and go round and round towards fear and panic. But, I remember who I serve: God, who hasn’t given me a spirit of fear but of power, love, and a sound mind. God, who knows the end from the beginning, for whom none of this is a surprise. God, whose plans are for my hopeful future, and not for evil.
So now, in the middle of my uncertain circumstance, Lord—in the middle of my pain—I pray for Your strengthening love to help my unbelief. Help me be my own witness, Jesus, as I recall past times when You rescued me. When you protected and set me on the path to victory.
Thank you for your full armor, your name, your most precious Blood and your Holy Spirit. No weapon formed against me shall prosper.
Thank you heavenly father for all your protection and provisions, for yours is the kingdom, the power and the glory, now and forevermore. Amen.
PRAYER OF CONFIRMATION AND TRUST IN GOD
Lord, God Almighty, I thank you for protecting me from every form of evil and bringing me the gift of your divine health. I thank you for breaking the chains of oppression and delivering me from every form of sin, sickness, disease and lie of the enemy.
I thank you for the powerful name of Jesus to which every knee shall bow.
Thank you for giving me your authority over all the power of the enemy. Nothing shall harm me.
Thank you for your full armor, your name, your most precious Blood and your Holy Spirit. No weapon formed against me shall prosper. Thank you heavenly father for all your protection and provisions, for yours is the kingdom, the power and the glory, now and forevermore. Amen.
Monday July 3, 2023
ST THOMAS, AP. (FEAST)
Office: Prop,. Te Deum
Mass of the Feast. Preface of Apostle
Vestment: Red
Today’s Rosary: The Joyful Mystery
NINE DAY MID-YEAR PRAERS FOR DIVINE STRENGTH
“Psalm 28:7-8” 1st July – 9th July 2023
DAY3: PRAYER FOR PRIEST, RELIGIOUS AND ALL CARRYING OUT THE WORK OF EVANGELIZATION
“Lord, help us to speak the truth at all times as we go out to proclaim your word to the lost and to acquaint them with Your word, that You would grant us the grace to speak the truth in love.”
IBADAN: Tomorrow is the 52nd Anniversary of the episcopal ordination of Most Revd Felix A. Job, 4th July 1971
JALINGO: Tomorrow is the 15th Anniversary of the episcopal ordination of Most Revd Charles M. Hammawa, 4th July 2008.
NSUKKA: Tomorrow is the 10th Anniversary of the episcopal ordination of Most Revd Godfrey Igwebuike Onah, 4th July 2013.
THOMAS is famous for doubting Jesus’ resurrection, but his unbelief vanished before the risen Lord. Apart from what we know about him through the Gospel, nothing certain is known about his life and ministry. The Christians of India honour him in a special way since, according to tradition, he brought the Gospel to that country.
ENTRANCE ANTIPHON Cf.Ps118:28.21
You are my God, and I confess you: you are my God, and I exalt you; I will thank you, for you became my saviour.
COLLECT
Grant, almighty God, that we may glory in the feast of the blessed Apostle Thomas, so that he may always be sustained by his intercession, and, believing, may have life in the name of Jesus Christ your Son, whom Thomas acknowledged as the Lord. Who lives and reigns with you…
-FIRST READING-
You are built upon the foundation of the apostles.
A reading from the Letter of Saint Paul to the Ephesians (Ephesians 2:19-22)
Brethren: You are no longer strangers and sojourners, but you are fellow citizens with the saints and members of the household of God, built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Christ Jesus himself being the cornerstone, in whom the whole structure is joined together and grows into a holy temple in the Lord; in whom you also are built into it for a dwelling place of God in the Spirit.
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Psalm117:1.2 (R. Mark16:15)
R/. Go into all the world and preach the Gospel.
O praise the Lord, all you nations;
acclaim him, all you peoples! R/.
R/. Go into all the world and preach the Gospel.
For his merciful love has prevailed over us;
and the Lord’s faithfulness endures for ever. R/.
ALLELUIA John 20:29
Alleluia. You believed, Thomas, because you have seen me, says the Lord; blessed are those who have not seen and yet believe. Alleluia.
-GOSPEL-
“My Lord and my God!”
A reading from the holy Gospel according to John (John 20:24-29)
Thomas, one of the Twelve, called the Twin, was not with them when Jesus came. So the other disciples told him, “We have seen the Lord. “But he said to them, “Unless I see in his hands the print of the nails, and place my finger in the mark of the nails, and place my hand in his side, I will not believe.” Eight days later, his disciples were again in the house, and Thomas was with them. The doors were shut, but Jesus came and stood among them, and said, “Peace be with you.” Then he said to Thomas, “Put your finger here, and see my hands; and put out your hand, and place it in my side; do not be faithless, but believing.” Thomas answered him, “My Lord and my God!” Jesus said to him, “You have believed because you have seen me. Blessed are those who have not seen and yet believe."
The Gospel of the Lord.
PRAYER OF THE FAITHFUL
Celebrant:
As we commemorate the feast of the Apostles Thomas, let us turn to the Lord in prayer that he may increase our faith.
FOR THE LEADERS OF THE CHURCH: that, guided by the light of the Holy Spirit, they may lead the church of God along the path of true faith. We pray O Lord.
FOR OUR COUNTRY’S LEADERS: that the fear of God may be instilled in their hearts, so that they may govern with justice, fairness and equity. We pray O Lord.
FOR THE PEOPLE OF GOD: that God may strengthen the faith of believers all over the world and make them faithful disciples of his Son. We pray O Lord.
FOR OURSELVES: that, amid social inequalities, we may practically bear witness to love for the poor and contribute to a more fraternal society. We pray O Lord.
FOR OTHER INTENTIONS: (the sick, church projects or other activities).
FOR THE DEAD, ESPECIALLY THOSE OF OUR PARISH COMMUNITY AND FAMILY MEMBERS: that they may find eternal rest with the Lord. We pray O Lord.
We pray in silence for our private intentions.
Celebrant:
Lord God, giver of all things, listen favourably to our petitions. By the intercession of Saint Thomas, increase our faith and grant us your blessings. Through Christ our Lord.
R/. Amen.
TODAY’S REFLECTION
When Jesus appeared to the disciples after his resurrection, Thomas was not with them. Later, after eight days, Jesus appears again when Thomas is present. What is striking is that Thomas missed Jesus when he was outside the communion of the apostles, but once within the communion, he has the opportunity to experience Christ’s presence. We too can experience the presence of Christ in and through the ‘communion of the community’. “Where two or three are gathered in my name, there am I in their midst”, says Jesus (Mt 18:20). Thomas had such a powerful experience of the risen Christ in the company of his fellow apostles that he surrendered his life to him with the most profound profession of faith, “My Lord, and my God!” This experience is what led Thomas to go out to a distant land as a missionary and establish Christian communities that even today bear significant testimony to Christ. Like Thomas, we shall do well to remain in communion with the body of Christ, the Church, so that we experience the power of the risen Lord and are empowered to bear witness to him.
NINE DAY MID-YEAR PRAERS FOR DIVINE STRENGTH
“Psalm 28:7-8” 1st July – 9th July 2023
DAY3: PRAYER FOR PRIEST, RELIGIOUS AND ALL CARRYING OUT THE WORK OF EVANGELIZATION
“Lord, help us to speak the truth at all times as we go out to proclaim your word to the lost and to acquaint them with Your word, that You would grant us the grace to speak the truth in love.”
OPENING
In the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, Amen.
INVOCATION OF THE HOLY SPIRIT
Come, O Holy Spirit, fill the hearts of the faithful and kindle in them the fire of your love.
Send forth your Spirit and they shall be created. And you shall renew the face of the earth.
Let us pray:
O God, who taught the hearts of the faithful by the light of the Holy Spirit, grant that by the gift of the same Spirit we may be always truly wise and ever rejoice in his consolation, Through Christ Lord. Amen.
We pray also for renewed prayerful revival among our Churches administrators; Our Archbishops, Bishops and Priests in charge of various P
parishes across our country Nigeria, to support and encourage prayers in their respective parishes and provinces.
PRAYER POINT
Reflection:
Lord! Renew your Church with the outpouring of the Holy Spirit as it were on the day of Pentecost (Acts2, Joel 2:28-29, 32, Luke 22:20, Matt. 16: 18
CLOSING
Lord, I thank you for the gift of ministry. I pray for pastors and church leaders in Nigeria and beyond. I humbly come before your presence and commit their lives in your hands. For ministry is brutal and they serve right in the middle of many stressful situations. They are constantly handling the issues of other people.
Father, because of this, it is very common to find discouragement around church pastors and leaders. I pray for encouragement for every pastor through Your Spirit. I ask that I and other believers might be a source of encouragement for these saints.
I pray for sufficient grace for them to do ministry. Thank you because they will not be put to shame. Glory to Your Name for You have always guided their lives, covered their lives and protected them from the evil one.
Tuesday July 4, 2023
ST ELIZABETH OF PORTUGAL (Opt Mem)
Office: Psalter Week 1
Mass and Preface of the day or Memorial
Vestment: Green/White
Today’s Rosary: The Sorrowful Mystery
NINE DAY MID-YEAR PRAYERS FOR DIVINE STRENGTH
“Psalm 28:7-8” 1st July – 9th July 2023
DAY 4: PRAYER FOR OUR CHILDREN/WARD AND YOUTHS AND AGAINST THE WICKEDNESS IN OUR NATION
Be close to each of my Children, Lord, guard them against diseases of the mind and body, accidents, predators and all kind of evil and evil-doers.
-FIRST READING-
The Lord God rained brimstone and fire on Sodom and Gomorrah.
A reading from the Book of Genesis (Genesis 19:15-29)
In those days: The angels urged Lot, saying,”Arise, take your wife and your two daughters who are here, lest you be consumed in the punishment of Sodom.” But he lingered; so the men seized him and his wife and his two daughters by the hand, the Lord being merciful to him, and they brought him forth and set him outside the city. And when they had brought them forth, they said, “flee for your life; do not look back or stop anywhere in the valley; flee to the hills, lest you be consumed.” And Lot said to them, “Oh, no, my lords; behold, your servant has found favour in your sight, and you have shown me great kindness in saving my life; but I cannot flee to the hills, lest the disaster overtake me, and I die. Behold, yonder city is near enough to flee to, and it is a little one. Let me escape there- is it not little one? - and my life will be saved!” He said to him, “Behold, I grant you this favour also, that I will not overthrow the city of which you have spoken. Make haste, escape there; for I can do nothing until you arrive there.” Therefore the name of the city was called Zoar. The sun had risen on the earth when Lot came to Zoar. Then the Lord rained on Sodom and Gomorrah brimstone and fire from the Lord out of heaven; and he overthrew those cities, and all the valley, and all the inhabitants of the cities, and what grew on the ground. But Lot’s wife behind him looked back, and she became a pillar of salt. And Abraham went early in the morning to the place where he had stood before the Lord; and he looked down towards Sodom and Gomorrah and towards all the land the valley, and beheld, and behold, the smoke of the land went up like the smoke of a furnace. So it was that, when God destroyed the cities of the valley, God remembered Abraham, and sent Lot out of the midst of the overthrow, when he overthrow the cities in which Lot dwelt.
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM psalm 26:2-3.9-10.11-12(R. 3a)
R/. O Lord, your mercy is before my eyes.
Examine me, Lord, and try me.
O test my heart and my mind.
Your mercy is before my eyes,
And I walk according to your truth. R/.
Do not sweep away my soul with sinners,
Nor my life with those who shed blood,
In whose hands are evil plots,
Whose right hands are filled with a bribe. R/.
R/. O Lord, your mercy is before my eyes.
As for me, I have walked in my integrity.
Redeem me and have mercy on me.
My foot stands on level ground:
I will bless the Lord in the assembly. R/.
ALLELUIA Psalm 130:5
Alleluia. I wait for the Lord, in his word I hope. Alleluia.
-GOSPEL-
“He rose and rebuked the winds and the sea; and there was a great calm.”
A reading from the holy Gospel according to Matthew (Matthew 8:23-27)
At that time: when Jesus got into the boat, his disciples followed him. And behold, there arose a great storm on the sea, so that the boat was being swamped by the waves; but he was asleep. And they went and woke him, saying, “Save us, Lord; we are perishing.” And he said to them, “Why are you afraid, O men of little faith?” Then he rose and rebuked the winds and the sea; and there was a great calm. And the men marveled, saying, “What sort of man is this, that even winds and sea obey him?”
The Gospel of the Lord.
NINE DAY MID-YEAR PRAYERS FOR DIVINE STRENGTH
“Psalm 28:7-8” 1st July – 9th July 2023
DAY 4: PRAYER FOR OUR CHILDREN/WARD AND YOUTHS AND AGAINST THE WICKEDNESS IN OUR NATION
Opening
In the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, Amen.
Invocation of the Holy Spirit
Come, O Holy Spirit, fill the hearts of the faithful and kindle in them the fire of your love.
Send forth your Spirit and they shall be created. And you shall renew the face of the earth.
Let us pray:
O God, who taught the hearts of the faithful by the light of the Holy Spirit, grant that by the gift of the same Spirit we may be always truly wise and ever rejoice in his consolation, Through Christ Lord. Amen.
Lord God, we praise you that you are fully in control of all things. I pray you would protect my child. Keep them healthy and help them to thrive. I thank you that you know every hair on their head. You know exactly when they rise and when they fall. Watch over my child in every area of their life and keep them safe in Jesus name.
Heavenly Father, may my child not fear, for you are with them. As I place my children in your mighty, loving hands, give me peace, knowing that you are right by their side. Please replace their fears with the strength and courage to face whatever the day brings. Give my children a real sense that Jesus is with them.
Heavenly Father, I thank you that all good gifts come from you. I thank you that I can trust you for the future of my family. Please guide our children in every step they take. I pray they would know your provision and protection. Make steady their steps may anointing of excellence fall upon my children. Anointing of success fall upon my children. O Lord take my children from the tail region to the head region. BLOOD of Jesus set me free in Jesus name. Thank you Jesus for answering all my prayers, thank you Holy Spirit and thank you Father. Amen
Prayer Point
4.Let God arise and let every yoke of time-wasters be broken in your life. Isa 45.2 (take seriously)
Lord we decree and declare deliverance by fire for every one of us captured by kidnappers, ritualists and cultists in Jesus' name (Matt 18.18)
Reflection
Lord, I surrender everything concerning me to you, takeover my life, take over all my affairs, takeover my marriage, takeover our Churches, takeover my business and takeover everything you have given me, let there be no loss of anything in Jesus name.
CLOSING
We thank you Lord for Your mercies and move in our nation Nigeria despite all the works of the devil.
Bless our nation, Father! I pray for our country Nigeria and all her citizens. Give the rulers and those in authorities Your knowledge, wisdom, and understanding. Help them to fear You and honour You in Jesus name.
O Lord, bless us as a people, protection us and give us peace in our country Nigeria. We thank you and ask you to deliver us from numerous problems of insurgence, kidnapping, banditry, political instability, bad governance etc. that has becloud us. I trust that You will fight for us and You will give us victory in Jesus name.
Wednesday July 5, 2023
St Anthony Mary Zaccaria, P. (Opt Mem)
Office: Psalter Week 1
Mass and Preface of the day or Memorial
Vestment: Green/White
Today’s Rosary: The Glorious Mystery
NINE DAY MID-YEAR PRAYERS FOR DIVINE STRENGTH
“Psalm 28:7-8” 1st July – 9th July 2023
DAY 5: PRAYER AGAINST SICKNESS AND EXTREME POVERTY
Dear God, we place our worries in your hands. We place our sick under your care and humbly ask that you restore them to health again. Above all, grant us the grace to acknowledge your will and know that whatever you do, you do for the love of us. Amen.
-FIRST READING-
“The son of this slave woman shall not be heir with my son Isaac.”
A reading from the Book of Genesis (Genesis 21:5.8-20)
Abraham was a hundred years old when his son Isaac was born to him. And the child grew, and was weaned; and Abraham made a great feast on the day that Isaac was weaned. But Sarah saw the son of Hagar the Egyptian, whom she had borne to Abraham, playing with her son Isaac. So she said to Abraham, “Cast out this slave woman with her son; for the son of this slave woman shall not be heir with my son Isaac.” And the thing was very displeasing to Abraham on account of his son. But God said to Abraham, “Be not displeased because of the lad and because of your slave woman; whatever Sarah says to you, do as she tells you, for through Isaac shall your descendants be named. And I will make a nation of the son of the slave woman also, because he is your offspring.” So Abraham rose early in the morning, and took bread and a skin of water, and gave it to Hagar, putting it on her shoulder, along with the child, and sent her away. And she departed, and wandered in the wilderness of Beersheba. When the water in the skin was gone, she cast the child under one of the bushes. Then she went, and sat down over against him a good way off, about the distance of a bowshot; for she said, “Let me not look upon the death of the child.” And as she sat over against him, the child lifted up his voice and wept. And God heard the voice of the lad; and the angel of God called to Hagar from heaven, and said to her, “What troubles you, Hagar? Fear not; for God has heard the voice of the lad where he is. Arise, lift up the lad, and hold him fast with your hand; for I will make him a great nation.” Then God opened her eyes, and she saw a well of water; and she went, and filled the skin with water, and gave the lad a drink. And God was with the lad, and he grew up; he lived in the wilderness, and became an expert with the bow.
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Psalm34:7-8.10-11.12.13 (R. see 7a)
R/. The lowly one called, and the Lord heard him.
This lowly one called; the Lord heard,
and rescued him from all his distress.
The angel of the Lord is encamped
around those who fear him, to rescue them. R/.
Fear the Lord, you his holy ones.
They lack nothing, those who fear him.
The rich suffer want and go hungry,
But those who seek the Lord lack no blessing. R/.
R/. The lowly one called, and the Lord heard him.
Come, children, and hear me,
That I may teach you the fear of the Lord.
Who is it that desires life
And longs to see prosperous days? R/.
ALLELUIA James 1:8
Alleluia. Of his own will he brought us forth by the word of truth that we should be a kind of first fruits of his. Alleluia.
-GOSPEL-
You have come here before the appointed time to torment the demons.
A reading from the holy Gospel according to Matthew (Matthew 8:28-34)
At that time: When Jesus came to the other side of the sea, to the country of the Gadarenes, two demoniacs met him, coming out of the tombs, so fierce that no one could pass that way. And behold, they cried out, “What have you to do with us, O Son of God? Have you come here to torment us before the time?” Now a, herd of many swine was feeding at some distance from them. And the demons begged him, “If you cast us out, send us away into the herd of swine.” And he said to them, “Go.” So they came out and went into the swine; and behold, the whole herd rushed down the steep bank into the sea, and perished in the waters. The herdsmen fled, and going into the city they told everything, and what had happened to the demoniacs. And behold, all the city came out to meet Jesus; and when they saw him, they begged him to leave their neighbourhood.
The Gospel of the Lord.
TODAY’S REFLECTION
Even demons recognized Jesus as the Son of God and acknowledged his authority over them. They were eventually sent into the swine. Surprisingly, the villagers were not happy; they considered their material possessions more important than the life of their fellowmen and hence begged Jesus to leave. It is a tragedy when we pride our financial or material stability over our spiritual liberation. We must at no point value financial, bodily or emotional comfort over and above a closer relationship with God, who cares for all. We must seize every given opportunity that we receive to let Jesus into our lives, no matter what it takes. Let us not give up in the midst of tribulations. Let us value human life more than material possessions.
Today’s Saint and Quote: St Anthony Mary Zaccaria – July 5th
That which God commands seems difficult and a burden. The way is rough; you draw back; you have no desire to follow it. Yet do so and you will attain glory.
NINE DAY MID-YEAR PRAYERS FOR DIVINE STRENGTH
“Psalm 28:7-8” 1st July – 9th July 2023
DAY 5: PRAYER AGAINST SICKNESS AND EXTREME POVERTY
Dear God, we place our worries in your hands. We place our sick under your care and humbly ask that you restore your servant to health again. Above all, grant us the grace to acknowledge your will and know that whatever you do, you do for the love of us. Amen.
Teach us O God to see with your own eyes and hear the cries of the less privileged around us and come to their aid. Lord we pray for our respective lawmakers that they may enact laws and policies that will alleviate poverty and hunger in our land.
OPENING
In the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, Amen.
Invocation of the Holy Spirit
Come, O Holy Spirit, fill the hearts of the faithful and kindle in them the fire of your love.
Send forth your Spirit and they shall be created. And you shall renew the face of the earth.
Let us pray:
O God, who taught the hearts of the faithful by the light of the Holy Spirit, grant that by the gift of the same Spirit we may be always truly wise and ever rejoice in his consolation, Through Christ Lord. Amen.
Heavenly Father, giver of life and health: Comfort and relieve the sick, all users of this platform, and give your power of healing to all those who minister to their needs, that they may be strengthened in their weakness and have confidence in your loving care; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
Father, we pray and declare free in the name of Jesus, every user of this Missal Application under captivity by poverty (Jn8:36) Poverty is a reproach, therefore I say no to poverty in their lives in the remainder of this year 2023 and beyond in Jesus name. (Ps110:1-2)
We come against all the killer diseases of Cancer, High BP, Diabetes, hepatitis and other diseases in the mighty name of Jesus name.
Prayer Point
Reflection:
Father, bless me with riches and wealth to the Shame of my enemies this year. Gen1: 28
Father, I receive grace afresh to walk in holiness; the way of sound health. Exo 15:26
PRAYER OF CONFIRMATION AND TRUST IN GOD
God, I feel unsure of everyone else in my life, but I know I can trust you. I pray that you'll help me to grow in that trust, knowing that you have the best for me, even if I am afraid no one else does.
I thank you for the powerful name of Jesus to which every knee shall bow. Thank you for giving me your authority over all the power of the enemy. Nothing shall harm me.
Lord, God Almighty, I thank you for protecting me from every form of evil and bringing me the gift of your divine health. I thank you for breaking the chains of oppression and delivering me from every form of sin, sickness, disease and lie of the enemy.
Thank you for your full armor, your name, your most precious Blood and your Holy Spirit. No weapon formed against me shall prosper. Thank you heavenly father for all your protection and provisions, for yours is the kingdom, the power and the glory, now and forevermore. Amen.
Thursday July 6, 2023
ST MARIA GORETTI, VM (Opt Men)
Office: Psalter Week 1
Mass and Preface of the day or Memorial
Vestment: Green/Red
Today’s Rosary: The Luminous Mystery
NINE DAY MID-YEAR PRAYERS FOR DIVINE STRENGTH
“Psalm 28:7-8” 1st July – 9th July 2023
Day 6: PRAYER AGAINST THE SPIRIT OF FEAR
Lord, help me to focus on what the Holy Spirit is doing in my life and starve the flesh. Praise God, I am not alone in my fight against fear; I have the Holy Spirit and the angels. The Holy Spirit and the angels are standing with me and in me.
-FIRST READING-
The sacrifice of Abraham, our father in faith.
A reading from the Book of Genesis (Genesis 22: 1-19)
In those days: God tested Abraham, and said to him, “Abraham!” And he said, “Here am I” He said, “Take your son, your only- begotten son Isaac, whom you love, and go to the land of Moriah, and offer him there as a burnt offering upon one of the mountains of which I shall tell you.” So Abraham rose early in the morning, saddled his donkey, and took two of his young men with him, and his son Isaac; and he cut the wood for the burnt offering, and arose and went to the place of which God had told him. On the third day Abraham lifted up his eyes and saw the place afar off. Then Abraham said to his young men, “Stay here with the donkey; I and the lad will go yonder and worship, and come again to you.” And Abraham took the wood of the burnt offering, and laid it on Isaac his son; and he took in his hand the fire and the knife. So they went both of them together. And Isaac said to his father Abraham, “My father!” And he said, “Here am I, my son.” He said, “Behold, the fire and the wood; but where is the lamb for a burnt offering?” Abraham said, “God will provide himself the lamb for a burnt offering, my son.” So they went both of them together. When they came to the place of which God had told him, Abraham built an altar there, and laid the wood in order, and bound Isaac his son, and laid him on the altar, upon the wood. Then Abraham put forth his hand, and took the knife to slay his son. But the angel of the Lord called to him from heaven, and said, “Abraham, Abraham!” And he said, “Here am I.” He said, “Do not lay your hand on the lad or do anything to him; for now I know that you fear God, seeing you have not withheld your son, your only-begotten son, from me.” And Abraham lifted up his eyes and looked, and behold, behind him was a ram, caught in a thicket by his horns; and Abraham went and took the ram, and offered it up as a burnt offering instead of his son. So Abraham called the name of that place The Lord will provide; as it is said to this day, “On the mount of the Lord it shall be provided.” And the angel of the Lord called to Abraham a second time from heaven, and said, “By myself I have sworn, says the Lord, because you have done this, and have not withheld your son, your only-begotten son, I will indeed bless you, and I will multiply your descendants as the stars of heaven and as the sand which is on the seashore. And your descendants shall possess the gate of their enemies, and by your descendants shall all the nations of the earth bless themselves, because you have obeyed my voice.” So Abraham returned to his young men, and they arose and went together to Beersheba; and Abraham dwelt at Beersheba.
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Psalm115:1-2.3-4.5-6.8-9(R.9)
R/. I will walk in the presence of the Lord in the land of the living.
Or: Alleluia.
I love the Lord, for he has heard
my voice, my appeal;
for he has turned his ear to me whenever I call. R/.
They surrounded me, the snares of death;
the anguish of the grave has found me;
anguish and sorrow I found.
I called on the name of the Lord:
“Deliver my soul, O Lord!” R/.
R/. I will walk in the presence of the Lord in the land of the living.
Or: Alleluia.
How gracious is the Lord, and just;
our God has compassion.
The Lord protects the simple;
I was brought low, and he saved me. R/.
He has kept my soul from death,
my eyes from tears,
and my feet from stumbling.
I will walk in the presence of the Lord
In the land of the living. R/.
ALLELUIA 2 Corinthians 5:19
Alleluia. God was in Christ reconciling the world to himself and entrusting to us the message of reconciliation. Alleluia.
-GOSPEL-
“They glorified God, who had given such authority to men.
A reading from the holy Gospel according to Matthew (Matthew 9:1-8)
At that time: Getting into a boat Jesus crossed over and came to his own city. And behold, they brought to him a paralytic, lying on his bed; and when Jesus saw their faith, he said to the paralytic, “Take heart, my son; your sins are forgiven.” And behold, some of the scribes said to themselves, “This man is blaspheming.” But Jesus, knowing their thoughts, said, “Why do you think evil in your hearts? For which is easier, to say, ‘Your sins are forgiven, ’or to say ‘Rise and walk’? But that you may know that the Son of man has authority on earth to forgive sins” — he then said to the paralytic—“Rise, take up your bed and go home.” And he rose and went home. When the crowds saw it, they were afraid, and they glorified God, who had given such authority to men.
The Gospel of the Lord.
TODAY’S REFLECTION
“To err is human, to forgive, divine,” says Alexander Pope. Forgiveness is an attribute of God which flows from the abundance of his Heart’s love. Where there is forgiveness, there is love and where there is love, there is forgiveness. God who is the fountain of love cannot contain in his heart anger against his children. Christ manifested God’s forgiveness through his preaching, teaching, miracles and most of all by his supreme sacrifice on the cross. The scribes accuse him of blasphemy because he makes himself equal to God. But he unequivocally asserts that he has authority on earth to forgive sins because he is both God and human. Forgiveness is the attribute of God. And anyone who extends forgiveness is already divine with Godly virtues because ‘to forgive is divine’!
NINE DAY MID-YEAR PRAYERS FOR DIVINE STRENGTH
“Psalm 28:7-8” 1st July – 9th July 2023
Day 6: PRAYER AGAINST THE SPIRIT OF FEAR
Every enchantment and invocation of fear being made against me, I neutralize you in the name of Jesus.
Opening
In the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, Amen.
Invocation of the Holy Spirit
Come, O Holy Spirit, fill the hearts of the faithful and kindle in them the fire of your love.
Send forth your Spirit and they shall be created. And you shall renew the face of the earth.
Let us pray:
O God, who taught the hearts of the faithful by the light of the Holy Spirit, grant that by the gift of the same Spirit we may be always truly wise and ever rejoice in his consolation, Through Christ Lord. Amen.
Father I thank you because you are not the author of confusion, thank you for the courage you have given me through your words. You, spirit of fear, lose your hold upon my life and my family in the name of Jesus. I bind every spirit of fear in my life in the name of Jesus
As a Christian, I refuse to fear because God has not given us the spirit of fear.
Prayer Point
Reflection
Ps 91:5. Thou shalt not be afraid for the terror by night; [nor] for the arrow [that] flieth by day; 2Timo 1:17, Rom 8:15-16, Ps 23:4
I decree that every sickness, disease, oppression and depression in my life as a result of fear to disappear in Jesus name.
CLOSING
Prayer of Confirmation and trust in God
Lord, God Almighty, I thank you for protecting me from every form of evil and bringing me the gift of your divine health.
I thank you for breaking the chains of oppression and delivering me from every form of sin, sickness, disease and lie of the enemy.
I thank you for the powerful name of Jesus to which every knee shall bow.
Thank you for giving me your authority over all the power of the enemy. Nothing shall harm me.
Thank you for your full armor, your name, your most precious Blood and your Holy Spirit. No weapon formed against me shall prosper.
Thank you heavenly father for all your protection and provisions, for yours is the kingdom, the power and the glory, now and forevermore. Amen.
Friday July 7, 2023
Weekday (13)
Office: Psalter Week 1
Mass and Preface of the day
Vestment: Green
Today’s Rosary: The Sorrowful Mystery
NINE DAY MID-YEAR PRAYERS FOR DIVINE STRENGTH
“Psalm 28:7-8” 1st July – 9th July 2023
DAY 7: PRAYER FOR DIVINE REVELATION AND THANKSGIVING
Dear Heavenly Father, thank You for Your Word. You have revealed to us what will happen before it happens so that we will believe. May I be guided by the Holy Spirit of truth. But above all, as I read your word, I pray that Jesus would be revealed to me, more and more, and I would know Him more clearly, love Him more dearly, and follow Him more nearly, all the days of my life. In Jesus' name I pray, AMEN.
-FIRST READING-
Isaac loved Rebekah and was comforted after his mother’s death.
A reading from the Book of Genesis (Genesis 23:1-4.19; 24:1-8.62-67)
Sarah lived a hundred and twenty-seven years; these were the years of the life of Sarah. And Sarah died at Kiriath-arba (that is, Hebron) in the land of Canaan; and Abraham went in to mourn for Sarah and to weep for her. And Abraham rose up from before his dead, and said to the Hittites, “I am a stranger and a sojourner among you; give me property among you for a burying place, that I may bury my dead out of my sight.” After this, Abraham buried Sarah his wife in the cave of the field of Machpelah east of Mamre (that is, Hebron) in the land of Canaan. Now Abraham was old, well advanced in years; and the Lord had blessed Abraham in all things. And Abraham said to his servant, the oldest of his house, who had charge of all that he had, “Put your hand under my thigh, and I will make you swear by the Lord, the God of heaven and of the earth, that you will not take a wife for my son from the daughters of the Canaanites, among whom I dwell, but will go to my country and to my kindred, and take a wife for my son Isaac.” The servant said to him, “Perhaps the woman may not be willing to follow me to this land; must I then take your son back to the land from which you came?” Abraham said to him, “See to it that you do not take my son back there. The Lord, the God of heaven, who took me from my father’s house and from the land of my birth, and who spoke to me and swore to me, ‘To your descendants I will give this land, ’he will send his angel before you, and you shall take a wife for my son from there. But if the woman is not willing to follow you, then you will be free from this oath of mine; only you must not take my son back there.” When the servant returned with Rebekah, Isaac was dwelling in the Negeb. And Isaac went out to meditate in the field in the evening; and he lifted up his eyes and looked, and behold, there were camels coming. And Rebekah lifted up her eyes, and when she saw Isaac, she alighted from the camel, and said to the servant, “Who is the man yonder, walking in the field to meet us?” The servant said, “It is my master.” So she took her veil and covered herself. And the servant told Isaac all the things that he had done. Then Isaac brought her into the tent, and took Rebekah, and she became his wife; and he loved her. So Isaac was comforted after his mother’s death.
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Psalm106:1b-2.3-4ab.4c-5 (R.1b)
R/. O give thanks to the Lord, for he is good.
Or: Alleluia.
O give thanks to the Lord, for he is good;
for his mercy endures forever.
Who can tell the Lord’s mighty deeds,
Or recount in full his praise? R.
Blessed are they who observe what is just,
who at all times do what is right.
O Lord, remember me
With the favour you show to your people. R.
R/. O give thanks to the Lord, for he is good.
Or: Alleluia.
Visit me with your saving power,
That I may see the riches of your chosen ones,
and may rejoice in the gladness of your nation,
boasting in the glory of your heritage. R.
ALLELUIA Matthew 11:28
Alleluia. Come to me, all who labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest, says the Lord. Alleluia.
-GOSPEL-
“Those who are well have no need of a physician, I desire mercy, and not sacrifice.”
A reading from the holy Gospel according to Matthew (Matthew 9:9-13)
At that time: As Jesus passed on, he saw a man called Matthew sitting at the tax office; and he said to him, “Follow me.” And he rose and followed him. And as he sat at table in the house, behold, many tax collectors and sinners came and sat down with Jesus and his disciples. And when the Pharisees saw this, they said to his disciples, “Why does your teacher eat with tax collectors and sinners?” But when he heard it, he said, “Those who are well have no need of a physician, but those who are sick. Go and learn what this means, ‘I desire mercy, and not sacrifice.’ For I came not to call the righteous, but sinners.”
The Gospel of the Lord.
TODAY’S REFLECTION
Mathew, like Zacchaeus, was a wealthy tax collector but for the rest of the Jews he belonged to a class of traitors and cheaters. Perhaps it was for this reason that he did not have to think twice when Jesus called him. The call, “Follow me,” ignited in him a thirst for joy, peace and hope which he had hitherto lacked. He leaves everything and follows the one who offered him the beauty of a dignified life. His experience of joy and peace produces a ripple effect, making many other tax collectors to join him in following Jesus and celebrating the experience of discipleship. Jesus, the divine physician, found Matthew and offered him the medicine for his soul that brought him true happiness. Jesus heals us too, and brings us joy, peace and hope, no matter what our illness is.
NINE DAY MID-YEAR PRAYERS FOR DIVINE STRENGTH
“Psalm 28:7-8” 1st July – 9th July 2023
DAY 7: PRAYER FOR DIVINE REVELATION AND THANKSGIVING
Opening
In the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, Amen.
Invocation of the Holy Spirit
Come, O Holy Spirit, fill the hearts of the faithful and kindle in them the fire of your love.
Send forth your Spirit and they shall be created. And you shall renew the face of the earth.
Let us pray:
O God, who taught the hearts of the faithful by the light of the Holy Spirit, grant that by the gift of the same Spirit we may be always truly wise and ever rejoice in his consolation, Through Christ Lord. Amen.
Father, we thank you for this opportunity to renew our strength in you and to rededicate our life to your service, look kindly on use and grant us your mercies, that we may enjoy the remaining part of the year and beyond in peace in the name of Jesus.
Heavenly Father, thank You for Your Word. You have revealed to us what will happen before it happens so that we will believe. May I be guided by the Holy Spirit of truth. But above all, as I read your word, I pray that Jesus would be revealed to me, more and more, and I would know Him more clearly, love Him more dearly, and follow Him more nearly, all the days of my life. In Jesus' name I pray, AMEN.
May the gains of this program be our portion in the name of Jesus.
PRAYER POINT
REFLECTION
Joel 2: 28-32, Prov. 20:12; Isaiah 6:1- 8, Ps. 51:15; II Kings 6:16-17. Thank God for this year’s prophesies.
CLOSING
Lord, God Almighty, I thank you for protecting me from every form of evil and bringing me the gift of your divine health.
I am extremely grateful for all of your blessings in my life, Lord. I pray that you remind me of just how blessed I am and that you never allow me to forget to show my gratitude in prayer and returned acts of kindness. Thank you, Lord.
Heavenly Father, in Thanksgiving, I bow my hearts to You and pray. I give You thanks for all You've done, especially for the gift of Jesus, Your Son. For beauty in nature, Your glory I see, for joy and health, friends, and family
I thank you for the powerful name of Jesus to which every knee shall bow.
Thank you heavenly father for all your protection and provisions, for yours is the kingdom, the power and the glory, now and forevermore. Amen.
Saturday July 8, 2023
Weekday (13)
B.V.M on Saturday
Office: Psalter Week 1
Mass of the day or BVM
Vestment: Green/White
Today’s Rosary: The Joyful Mystery
NINE DAY MID-YEAR PRAYERS FOR DIVINE STRENGTH
“Psalm 28:7-8” 1st July – 9th July 2023
DAY 8: PRAYER FOR DIVINE REVELATION AND THANKSGIVING
O Lord give unto me the Spirit of revelation and wisdom in the knowledge of Yourself, and make your way plain before my face, I am grateful for your healing power, and for the abundant blessings you have given me. But most of all, I am thankful for the promise of salvation, given through your Son, our Lord. Through him, when all is completed, there will be no more sickness or pain. Amen
-FIRST READING-
Jacob supplanted his brother’s place and took away his blessing (27.36).
A reading from the Book of Genesis (Genesis 27:1-5.15-29)
When Isaac was old and his eyes were dim so that he could not see, he called Esau his older son, and said to him, “My son.” And he answered, “Here I am.” He said, “Behold, I am old; I do not know the day of my death. Now then, take your weapons, your quiver and your bow, and go out to the field, and hunt game for me, and prepare for me savoury food, such as I love, and bring it to me that I may eat; that I may bless you before I die.” Now Rebekah was listening when Isaac spoke to his son Esau. And Esau went to the field to hunt for game and bring it. Then Rebekah took the best garments of Esau her older son. which were with her in the house, and put them on Jacob her younger son; and the skins of the kids [which Jacob had brought to hell she put upon his hands and upon the smooth part of his neck; and she gave the savoury food and the bread, which she had prepared, into the hand of her son, Jacob. So he went in to his father, and said, “My father.” And he said, “Here I am; who are you, my son?” Jacob said to his father, “I am Esau your first-born. I have done as you told me; now sit up and eat of my game, that you may bless me.” But Isaac said to his son, “How is it that you have found it so quickly, my son?” He answered, “Because the Loan your God granted me success.” Then Isaac said to Jacob, “Come near, that I may feel you, my son, to know whether you are really my son Esau or not.” So Jacob went near to Isaac his father, who felt him and said, “The voice is Jacob’s voice, but the hands are the hands of Esau.” And he did not recognise him, because his hands were hairy like his brother Esau’s hands; so he blessed him. He said, “Are you really my son Esau?” He answered, “I am.” Then he said, “Bring it to me, that I may eat of my son’s game and bless you.” So he brought it to him, and he ate; and he brought him wine, and he drank. Then his father Isaac said to him, “Come near and kiss me, my son.” So he came near and kissed him; and he smelled the smell of his garments, and blessed him, and said, “See, the smell of my son is as the smell of a field which the Loan has blessed! May God give you of the dew of heaven, and of the fatness of the earth, and plenty of grain and wine. Let peoples serve you, and nations bow down to you. Be lord over your brothers, and may your mother’s sons bow down to you. Cursed be every one who curses you, and blessed be every one who blesses you!”
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Psalm 135:1b-2.3-4.5-6 (R. 3a)
R/. Praise the Lord, for the Lord is good.
Or: Alleluia.
Praise the name of the Lord;
praise him, servants of the Lord,
who stand in the house of the Lord,
in the courts of the house of our God. R/.
Praise the Lord, for the Lord is good.
Sing a psalm to his name, for this is our delight.
For the Lord has chosen Jacob for himself,
and Israel as his treasured possession. R/.
R/. Praise the Lord, for the Lord is good.
Or: Alleluia.
For I know that the Lord is great,
that our Lord is high above all gods.
The Lord does whatever he wills,
in heaven, and on earth,
in the seas, and in all the depths. R/.
ALLELUIA John 10:27
Alleluia. My sheep hear my voice, says the Lord; and I know them, and they follow me. Alleluia.
-GOSPEL-
“Can the wedding guests mourn as long as the bridegroom is with them?”
A reading from the holy Gospel according to Matthew (Matthew 9:14-17)
At that time: The disciples of John came to Jesus, saying, “Why do we and the Pharisees fast, but your disciples do not fast?” And Jesus said to them, “Can the wedding guests mourn as long as the bridegroom is with them? The days will come, when the bridegroom is taken away from them, and then they will fast. And no one puts a piece of unshrunk cloth on an old garment, for the patch tears away from the garment, and a worse tear is made. Neither is new wine put into old wineskins; if it is, the skins burst, and the wine is spilled, and the skins are destroyed; but new wine is put into fresh wineskins, and so both are preserved.”
The Gospel of the Lord.
NINE DAYS MID-YEAR PRAYERS FOR DIVINE HEALING AND RESTORATION
“1 Peter 2:24” Thursday 1st July – Friday 9th July
DAY 8: PRAYER FOR DIVINE REVELATION AND THANKSGIVING
O Lord give unto me the Spirit of revelation and wisdom in the knowledge of Yourself, and make your way plain before my face, I am grateful for your healing power, and for the abundant blessings you have given me. But most of all, I am thankful for the promise of salvation, given through your Son, our Lord. Through him, when all is completed, there will be no more sickness or pain. Amen
Opening
In the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, Amen.
Invocation of the Holy Spirit
Come, O Holy Spirit, fill the hearts of the faithful
and kindle in them the fire of your love.
Send forth your Spirit and they shall be created.
And you shall renew the face of the earth.
Let us pray:
O God, who taught the hearts of the faithful by the light of the Holy Spirit, grant that by the gift of the same Spirit we may be always truly wise and ever rejoice in his consolation, Through Christ Lord. Amen.
Father, we thank you for this opportunity to renew our strength in you and to rededicate our life to your service, look kindly on use and grant us your mercies, that we may enjoy the remaining part of the year and beyond in peace in the name of Jesus.
May the gains of this program be our portion in the name of Jesus.
Prayer Point
Thank the Lord for the gift of providence and for answering your prayers
You are expected to recite the Thank You Jesus Rosary for the last two days of the Mid-Year prayer
Reflection
Joel 2: 28-32, Prov. 20:12; Isaiah 6:1- 8, Ps. 51:15; II Kings 6:16-17. Thank God for this year’s prophesies.
CLOSING
Touch me, O Lord, and fill me with your light and your hope. Dear God, please give me strength when I am weak, love when I feel forsaken, courage when I am afraid, wisdom when I feel foolish, comfort when I am alone, hope when I feel rejected, and peace when I am in turmoil.
Thank you, Lord, for the blessings you have bestowed on my life. You have provided me with more than I could ever have imagined. You have surrounded me with people who always look out for me. You have given me family and friends who bless me every day with kind words and actions. I am grateful for your healing power, and for the abundant blessings you have given me. But most of all, I am thankful for the promise of salvation, given through your Son, our Lord. Through him, when all is completed, there will be no more sickness or pain in Jesus name. Amen.
Sunday July 9, 2023
FOURTEENTH SUNDAY OF THE YEAR A
V1 -, V2 -, R1 +, R2 -,
Office: Psalter Week 2, Te Deum
Mass prop., Gloria. Creed.
Preface of Sunday
Vestment: Green
Today’s Rosary: The Glorious Mystery
Vespers II of the 14th Sunday of the Year
NINE DAY MID-YEAR PRAYERS FOR DIVINE STRENGTH
“Psalm 28:7-8” 1st July – 9th July 2023
DAY 9: PRAYER FOR DIVINE REVELATION AND THANKSGIVING
Heavenly Father, we bow our hearts to you and pray. We give you thanks for all you’ve done, especially for the gift of your son Jesus Christ. For the beauty of nature, for your grace to complete this mid-year prayers and for the day you have given us; may it bring joy and sanctification to our souls in Jesus name. Amen.
THEME OF THE SUNDAY: God Reveals Himself to the Poor.
The gospel shows Jesus “gentle and humble,” that is, on the side of the poor and the oppressed. He rejoices because it is to them that the father has revealed his message of salvation. In the first reading we find the words of the prophet announcing a Messiah who is poor and humble. These appear to be words that describe Jesus. The second reading can be linked to this theme because it speaks of the Spirit who can only be received by the poor, by those who are “humble in heart.”
ENTRANCE ANTIPHON cf.Ps 47:10-11
Your merciful love, O God, we have received in the midst of your temple. Your praise, O God, like your name, reaches the ends of the earth. Your right hand is filled with saving justice.
COLLECT
O God, who in the abasement of your Son have raised up a fallen world, fill your faithful with holy joy, for on those you have rescued from slavery to sin you bestow eternal gladness. Through our Lord...
-FIRST READING-
“Behold, your king comes to you, humble.”
A reading from the Book of the Prophet Zechariah (Zechariah9:9-10)
Thus says the Lord: Rejoice greatly, O daughter of Zion! Shout aloud, O daughter of Jerusalem! Behold, your king comes to you; triumphant and victorious is he, humble and riding on a donkey, on a colt the foal of a donkey. I will cut off the chariot from Ephraim and the war horse from Jerusalem; and the battle bow shall be cut off, and he shall command peace to the nations; his dominion shall be from sea to sea, and from the River to the ends of the earth.
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Ps 145:1 -2.8-9.10-11.13cd-14 (R. see 1)
R/. I will bless your name forever, my king and my God.
Or: Alleluia.
I will extol you, my God and king,
and bless your name forever and ever.
I will bless you day after day,
And praise your name forever and ever. R/.
All your works shall thank you, O Lord,
and all your faithful ones bless you.
They shall speak of the glory of your reign,
and declare your mighty deeds. R/.
R/. I will bless your name forever, my king and my God.
Or: Alleluia.
The Lord is faithful in all his words,
The holy in all his deeds.
The Lord supports all who fall,
and raises up all who are bowed down. R/.
-SECOND READING-
“If by the spirit you put to death the deeds of the body you will live.
A reading from the Letter of Saint Paul to the Romans (Roman 8:9.11-13)
Brethren: you are not in the flesh, you are in the spirit, if the spirit of God really dwells in you. Any one who does not have the Spirit of Christ does not belong to him. If the Spirit of him who raised Jesus from the dead dwells in you, he who raised Christ Jesus from the dead will give life to your mortal bodies also through his spirit who dwells in you. So then, brethren, we are debtors, not to the flesh, to live according to the flesh – for if you live according to the flesh you will die, but if by the spirit you put to death the deeds of the body you will live.
The word of the Lord.
ALLELUIA Matthew 11:25
Alleluia. Blessed are you, Father, Lord of heaven and earth, that you have revealed to little ones the mysteries of the kingdom. Alleluia.
-GOSPEL-
“I am gentle and lowly of heart.”
A reading from the holy Gospel according to Matthew (Matthew 11:25-30)
At that time Jesus declared, “I thank you, Father, Lord of heaven and earth, that you have hidden these things from the wise and understanding and revealed them to infants; yes, Father, for such was your gracious will all things have been delivered to me by my father; and no one knows the Son except the Father, and no one knows the Father except the Son and any one to whom the Son chooses to reveal him. Come to me, all who labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me; for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.”
The Gospel of the Lord.
PRAYER OF THE FAITHFUL
Celebrant:
The Lord, who is gentle and lowly of heart, cares for the poor and those who are experiencing difficulties. Let us pray that he may provide for the needy and give rest to all who are overburdened by the challenges of life.
FOR THE MINISTERS OF THE CHURCH: that, in their pastoral ministry, they may always strive to imitate Christ, who is ever-present to the poor, the marginalized and those who have no voice. We pray O Lord.
FOR OUR POLITICAL LEADERS: that they may be aware of the needs of those placed under their care, and ensure the protection of life and property in the state. We pray O Lord.
FOR INTERNALLY DISPLACED PERSONS: that they may remain steadfast in serving God despite the difficult circumstances of their lives, and that Christ, who supplies all our needs according to his riches, may bring them comfort. We pray O Lord.
FOR THE SICK AND BEREAVED IN OUR WORSHIPPING COMMUNITY: that they may experience the healing and comforting touch of Christ whose yoke is easy and whose burden is light. We pray O Lord.
FOR OTHER INTENTIONS: (the sick, church projects or other activities).
For the dead, especially those of our parish community and family members: that they may find eternal rest with the Lord. We pray O Lord.
We pray in silence for our private intentions.
Celebrant:
Almighty and eternal God, you give us hope and joy in your Son, our Lord Jesus Christ. Grant, we pray, that by following him, who is meek and humble of heart, we may come at last to the joy of our heavenly home. Through the same Christ our Lord.
R/. Amen.
NINE DAYS MID-YEAR PRAYERS FOR DIVINE HEALING AND RESTORATION
“1 Peter 2:24” Thursday 1st July – Friday 9th July
DAY 9: PRAYER FOR DIVINE REVELATION AND THANKSGIVING
Heavenly Father, we bow our hearts to you and pray. We give you thanks for all you’ve done, especially for the gift of your son Jesus Christ. For the beauty of nature, for your grace to complete this mid-year prayers and for the day you have given us; may it bring joy and sanctification to our souls in Jesus name. Amen.
Opening
In the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, Amen.
Invocation of the Holy Spirit
Come, O Holy Spirit, fill the hearts of the faithful
and kindle in them the fire of your love.
Send forth your Spirit and they shall be created.
And you shall renew the face of the earth.
Let us pray:
O God, who taught the hearts of the faithful by the light of the Holy Spirit, grant that by the gift of the same Spirit we may be always truly wise and ever rejoice in his consolation, Through Christ Lord. Amen.
Father, we thank you for this opportunity to renew our strength in you and to rededicate our life to your service, look kindly on use and grant us your mercies, that we may enjoy the remaining part of the year and beyond in peace in the name of Jesus.
May the gains of this program be our portion in the name of Jesus.
Prayer Point
Thank the Lord for the gift of providence and for answering your prayers
You are expected to recite the Thank You Jesus Rosary for the last two days of the Mid-Year prayer
Reflection
Joel 2: 28-32, Prov. 20:12; Isaiah 6:1- 8, Ps. 51:15; II Kings 6:16-17. Thank God for this year’s prophesies.
Closing
Touch me, O Lord, and fill me with your light and your hope. Dear God, please give me strength when I am weak, love when I feel forsaken, courage when I am afraid, wisdom when I feel foolish, comfort when I am alone, hope when I feel rejected, and peace when I am in turmoil.
Thank you, Lord, for the blessings you have bestowed on my life. You have provided me with more than I could ever have imagined. You have surrounded me with people who always look out for me. You have given me family and friends who bless me every day with kind words and actions. I am grateful for your healing power, and for the abundant blessings you have given me. But most of all, I am thankful for the promise of salvation, given through your Son, our Lord. Through him, when all is completed, there will be no more sickness or pain in Jesus name. Amen.
Monday July 10, 2023
Weekday (14)
Office: Psalter Week 2
Mass and Preface of the Day
Vestment: Green
Today’s Rosary: The Joyful Mystery
-FIRST READING-
He saw a ladder set up, and the angels of God ascending and descending, and trod speaking.
A reading from the Book of Genesis (Genesis 28:10-22a)
In those days: Jacob left Beersheba, and went towards Haran. And he came to a certain place, and stayed there that night, because the sun had set. Taking one of the stones of the place, he put it under his head and lay down in that place to sleep. And he dreamed that there was a ladder set up on the earth, and the top of it reached to heaven; and behold, the angels of God were ascending and descending on it! And behold, the Lord stood above it and said, “I am the Lord, the God of Abraham your father and the God of Isaac; the land on which you lie I will give to you and to your descendants; and your descendants shall be like the dust of the earth, and you shall spread abroad to the west and to the east and to the north and to the south; and by you and your descendants shall all the families of the earth bless themselves. Behold, I am with you and will keep you wherever you go, and will bring you back to this land; for I will not leave you until I have done that of which I have spoken to you.” Then Jacob awoke from his sleep and said, “Surely the Lord is in this place; and I did not know it.” And he was afraid, and said, “How awesome is this place! This is none other than the house of God, and this is the gate of heaven.” So Jacob rose early in the morning, and he took the stone which he had put under his head and set it up for a pillar and poured oil on the top of it. He called the name of that place Bethel; but the name of the city was Luz at the first. Then Jacob made a vow, saying, “If God will be with me, and will keep me in this way that I go, and will give me bread to eat and clothing to wear, so that I come again to my father’s house in peace, then the Lord shall be my God, and this stone, which I have set up for a pillar, shall be God’s house.”
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Psalm91:1-2.3-4ab. 14- I 5ab (R. sec 2b)
R/. O my God, I trust in you.
He who dwells in the shelter of the Most High,
and abides in the shade of the Almighty,
says to the Lord, “My refuge,
my stronghold, my God in whom I trust!” R/.
He will free you from the snare of the fowler,
From the destructive plague; ’
He will conceal you with his pinions,
And under his wings you will find refuge. R/.
R/. O my God, I trust in you.
Since he clings to me in love, I will free him,
protect him, for he knows my name.
When he calls on me, I will answer him;
I will be with him in distress. R/.
ALLELUIA 2 Timothy1:10
Alleluia. Our Saviour Christ Jesus abolished death and brought life and immortality to light through the Gospel. Alleluia.
-GOSPEL-
“My daughter has just died, but come and she will live.”
A reading from the holy Gospel according to Matthew (Matthew9:18-26)
At that time: While Jesus was speaking, behold, a ruler came in and knelt before him, saying, “My daughter has just died; but come and lay your hand on her, and she will live.” And Jesus rose and followed him, with his disciples. And behold, a woman who had suffered from a haemorrhage for twelve years came up behind him and touched the fringe of his garment; for she said to herself, “If I only touch his garment, I shall be made well.” Jesus turned, and seeing her he said, “Take heart, daughter; your faith has made you well.” And instantly the woman was made well. And when Jesus came to the ruler’s house, and saw the flute players, and the crowd making a tumult, he said, “Depart; for the girl is not dead but sleeping.” And they laughed at him. But when the crowd had been put outside, he went in and took her by the hand, and the girl arose. And the report of this went through all that district.
The Gospel of the Lord.
TODAY’S REFLECTION
Jacob experiences Yahweh’s presence as he says, “Yahweh is in this place.” He then decides to take Yahweh as his God in today’s Gospel, the official whose daughter had just died and the woman who was suffering from hemorrhage also experienced in Christ the true presence of God. They knew he had the power to change their miserable conditions. They manifested extraordinary faith in the power of Christ. He rewarded the official by raising her daughter from the dead, and the woman by healing her of her hemorrhage. God is in this place, God is in our hearts, as Jacob experienced. The powerful presence of Christ is in us, in the sacraments especially in the Holy Eucharist and in the sacrament of reconciliation. May we today experience a new his power and be transformed, no matter what sufferings assail us.
PERSONAL DEVOTIONAL
“For by the blood of Christ we are set free, that is, our sins are forgiven. How great is the grace of God” Ephesians 1: 7
- I loose myself from all heart attacks rooted in fear, and I command all spirits of fear to leave in the name of Jesus.
- I loose myself from all undertakings rooted in rejection, self-hatred, ancestral inheritance, and guilt in the name of Jesus.
- I break all sources of sickness and diseases, and I command all transmissible spirits of sickness to come out of me if there is any in the name of Jesus.
- I nullify every activities of evil parasites, immune system destroyers, demonic time wasters and health devourers in my life in the name of Jesus. “Who the Lord set free he is free indeed”!
Let Us Pray
Teach us, good Lord, to serve you as you deserve; to give and not to count the cost; to fight and not to heed the wounds; to toil and not to seek for rest; to labour and not ask for any reward, save that of knowing that we do your will in Jesus name. Amen.
Tuesday July 11, 2023
ST BENEDICT, Abb. (Mem)
Office: Memorial, Psalter Week 2
Mass and Preface of the Memorial;
Vestment: White
Today’s Rosary: The Sorrowful Mystery
First Reading
Your name shall be called Israel, for you have striven with God and have prevailed
A reading from the Book of Genesis (Genesis 32:23-33)
In those days: Jacob arose at night and took his two wives, his two maids, and his eleven children, and crossed the ford of the Jabbok. He took them and sent them across the stream, and like wise everything that he had. And Jacob was left alone; and a man wrestled with him until the breaking of the day. When the man saw that he did not prevail against Jacob, he touched the hollow of his thigh; and Jacob’s thigh was put out of joint as he wrestled with him. Then he said, “let me go, for the day is breaking,” but Jacob said, “I will not let you go, unless you bless me.” And he said to him, “what is your name?” and he said, “Jacob.” Then he said, “Your name shall no more be called Jacob, but Israel, for you have striven with God and with men, and have prevailed.” Then Jacob asked him, “tell me, I pray, your name.” but he said, “Why is it that you ask my name?” and there he blessed him. So Jacob called the name of the place Peniel, saying, “for I have seen God face to face, and yet my life is preserved.” The sun rose upon him as he passed Penuel, limping because of his thigh. Therefore to this day the Israelites do not eat the sinew of the hip which is upon the hollow of the thigh, because he touched the hollow of Jacob’s thigh on the sinew of the hip.
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM psalm 17:1-2.6-7.8 and 15 (R. 15a)
R/. In justice I shall behold your face.
O Lord, hear a cause that is just,
Pay heed to my cry.
Turn your ear to my prayer:
No deceit is on my lips. R/.
From you may my justice come forth.
Your eyes discern what is upright.
Search my heart and visit me by night.
Test me by fire, and you will find no wrong in me. R/.
R/. In justice I shall behold your face.
To you I call; for you will surely heed me, O God.
Turn your ear to me; hear my words.
Display your merciful love.
By your right hand you deliver from their foes
Those who put their trust in you. R/.
Guard me as the apple of your eye.
Hide me in the shadow of your wings.
As for me, in justice I shall behold your face;
When I awake I shall be filled with the vision
Of your presence. R/.
Alleluia John 10:14
Alleluia. I am the good shepherd, says the Lord; I know my own, and my own know me. Alleluia
-GOSPEL-
“The harvest is plentiful, but the laborers, are few.”
A reading from the holy Gospel according to Matthew (Matthew 9:32-38)
At that time: Behold, a mute demoniac was brought to Jesus. And when the demon had been cast out, the mute man spoke: and the crowds marvelled, saying, “Never was anything like this seen in Israel. “But the Pharisees said, “He casts out demons by the prince of demons. “And Jesus went about all the cities and villages, teaching in their synagogues and preaching the gospel of the kingdom, and healing every disease and every infirmity. When he saw the crowds, he had compassion for them, because they were harassed and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd. Then he said to his disciples, “The harvest is plentiful, but the labourers are few; pray therefore the Lord of the harvest to send out labourers into his harvest,”
The Gospel of the Lord.
TODAY’S REFLECTION
Yahweh wrestles with Jacob and tests his endurance. He is given a new name and a new identity: Israel. This episode changes Jacob to a man of humility. Jacob’s experience is a paradigm for humanity that continuously ‘wrestles with God’ in prayer. We spent long hours seeking after God, struggling to know him, experience his presence, blessings, conversion and forgiveness. It is a battle of faith and perseverance. Paradoxically, in the gospel we see how Jesus’ own life is a battle of another type – a battle with the powers opposed to him. They charge him with the weirdest accusation, “it is through the prince of devils that he drives out devils.” Like Jacob, Jesus too was struck with the worst blows, but in the end his perseverance ensures his triumph. May we experience in a powerful way the presence of God in our battle with the powers of evil and emerge triumphant!
PERSONAL DEVOTIONAL
“I did not reject you, but chose you. Do not be afraid – I am with you! I am your God – let nothing terrify you! I will make you strong and help you; I will protect you and save you. Isaiah 41:10
- On what path are you walking, child of God?
- Many ways seem right to the man but the end thereof is condemnation. Ask the Holy Spirit to redirect your footsteps to the Lord’s path.
- Your eyes may have been veiled to see Jesus, ask the Lord to open the eyes of your mind to see and accept Jesus life and for your salvation
- Pray that the sound teachings of the scripture will not be polluted by the false teaching of some Rabbis.
- Pray against dashed hopes and shattered dreams of your lives and look towards the rising sun and not towards the settling sun.
Let Us Pray
St. Michael the Archangel, defend us in battle. Be our defense against the wickedness and shares of the Devil. May God rebuke him, we humbly pray, and do thou, O Prince of the heavenly hosts, by the power of God, cast into hell satan, and all the evil spirits, who prowl about the world seeking the ruin of souls. Amen.
Wednesday July 12, 2023
Weekday (14)
Office: Psalter Week 2
Mass and Preface of the day
Vestment: Green
Today’s Rosary: The Glorious Mystery
-FIRST READING-
“We are guilty concerning our brother; therefore is this distress come upon us.”
A reading from the Book of Genesis (Genesis 41:55-57; 42:5-7a. 17-24a)
In those days: when all the land of Egypt was famished, the people cried to Pharaoh for bread; and Pharaoh said to all the Egyptians, “Go to Joseph; what he says to you, do.” So when the famine had spread over all the land, Joseph opened all the storehouses, and sold to the Egyptians, for the famine was severe in the land of Egypt. Moreover, all the earth came to Egypt to Joseph to buy grain, because the famine was severe over all the earth. Thus, the sons of Israel came to Egypt to buy among the others who came, for the famine was in the land of Canaan. Now Joseph was governor over the land; he it was who sold to all the people of the land. And Joseph’s brothers came, and bowed themselves before him with their faces to the ground. Joseph saw his brothers, and knew them, but he treated them like strangers and spoke roughly to them. And he put them all together in prison for three days. On the third day Joseph said to them, “Do this and you will live, for I fear God: if you are honest men, let one of your brothers remain confined in your prison, and let the rest go and carry grain for the famine of your households, and bring your youngest brother to me; so your words will be verified, and you shall not die.” And they did so. Then they said to one another, “In truth we are guilty concerning our brother, in that we saw the distress of his soul, when he besought us and we would not listen; therefore is this distress come upon us.” And Reuben answered them, “Did I not tell you not to sin against the lad? But you would not listen. So now there comes a reckoning for his blood.” They did not know that Joseph understood them, for there was an interpreter between them. Then he turned away from them and wept.
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Psalm 33:2-3. 10-11. 18-19 (R. 22)
R/. May your merciful love be upon us, as we hope in you, O Lord.
Give thanks to the Lord upon the harp;
with a ten-stringed lute sing him songs.
O sing him a song that is new;
play skilfully, with shouts of joy. R/.
The LORD frustrates the designs of the nations;
he defeats the plans of the peoples.
the designs of the LORD stand forever,
the plans of his heart from age to age. R/.
R/. May your merciful love be upon us, as we hope in you, O Lord.
Yes, the LORD’S eyes are on those who fear him,
who hope in his merciful love,
to rescue their souls from death,
to keep them alive in famine. R/.
ALLELUIA Mark 1:15
Alleluia. The kingdom of God is at hand; repent, and believe in the Gospel. Alleluia.
-GOSPEL-
“Go to the lot sheep of the house of Israel.”
A reading from the holy Gospel according to Matthew (Matthew 10:1:7)
At that time: Jesus called to him his twelve disciples and gave them authority over unclean spirits, to cast them out, and to heal every disease and every infirmity. The names of the twelve apostles are these: first, Simon, who is called Peter, and Andrew his brother; James the son of Zebedee, and John his brother; Philip and Bartholomew; Thomas and Matthew the tax collector; James the son of Alphaeus, and Thaddaeus; Simon the Cananaean, and Judas Iscariot, who betrayed him. These Twelve Jesus sent out, charging them, “Go nowhere among the Gentiles, and enter no town of the Samaritans, but go rather to the lost sheep of the house of Israel. And preach as you go, saying, ‘The kingdom of heaven is at hand.’”
The Gospel of the Lord.
TODAY’S REFLECTION
The Patriarch Joseph of the Old Testament is an archetype of Christ. He saved the people of Egypt from a deadly famine. Jesus saves the whole world from sin and death. Joseph was thrown in a well and later sold for money. Jesus too was misunderstood, rejected, sold for thirty silver pieces and was later killed, but was raised to victory, conquering sin and death and bringing life and salvation to the whole world. The apostles Jesus chooses and sends out in today’s gospel would also have the same saving mission of Jesus, proclaiming that “the Kingdom of God is at hand.” In the process they too have to go through trials, sufferings, persecutions and even death for the sake of the Good News. But Christ’s power and his authority would accompany them every moment of their life.
PERSONAL DEVOTIONAL
Actually I would prefer that all of you were as I am; but each one has a special gift from God, one person this gift, another that gift - 1 Corinthians 7:7
- God give us the ability to identify my gift, so that I can praise you more with it..
- Pray for the renewal and out pouring of the Holy Spirit on me to be contented with the gift you have given me.
- Ask God for the gift of faith to trust Jesus as the shepherd of your life.
Let Us Pray
Oh Lord, give me the grace never to doubt God’s ability to satisfy all needs even though they require miracle. Amen.
Thursday July 13, 2023
Weekday (14)
Office: Psalter Week 2
Mass and Preface of the day or Memorial
Vestment: Green/White
Today’s Rosary: The Luminous Mystery
-FIRST READING-
“God sent me before you to preserve life,”
A reading from the Book of Genesis (Genesis 44:18-21.23b-29; 45:1-5)
In those days: Judah went up to Joseph and said, “O my lord, let your servant, I beg you, speak a word in my lord’s ears, and let not your anger burn against your servant; for you are like Pharaoh himself. My lord asked his servants, saying, ‘Have you a father, or a brother?’ And we said to my lord, ‘We have a father, an old man, and a young brother, the child of his old age; and his brother is dead, and heal one is left of his mother’s children; and his father loves him.’ Then you said to your servants, ‘Bring him down to me, that I may set my eyes upon him. Unless your youngest brother comes down with you, you shall see my face no more.’ When we went back to your servant my father we told him the words of my lord. And when our father said, ‘Go again, buy us a little food,’ we said, ‘We cannot go down. If our youngest brother goes with us, then we will go down; for we cannot see the man’s face unless our youngest brother is with us.’ Then your servant my father said to us, ‘You know that my wife bore me two sons; one left me, and I said, Surely he has been torn to pieces; and I have never seen him since. If you take this one also from me, and harm befalls him, you will bring down my grey hairs in sorrow to Sheol.”’ Then Joseph could not control himself before all those who stood by him; and he cried, “Make every one go out from me.” So no one stayed with him when Joseph made himself known to his brothers. And he wept aloud, so that the Egyptians heard it, and the household of Pharaoh heard it. And Joseph said to his brothers, “I am Joseph; is my father still alive?” But his brothers could not answer him, for they were dismayed at his presence. So Joseph said to his brothers, “Come near to me, I beg you.” And they came near. And he said, “I am your brother, Joseph, whom you sold into Egypt. And now do not be distressed, or angry with yourselves, because you sold me here; for God sent me before you to preserve life.”
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Psalm105:16-17.18-19.20-21 (R. 5a)
R/. Remember the wonders the Lord has done.
Or: Alleluia.
But he called down a famine on the land;
he broke their staff of bread.
He had sent a man ahead of them,
Joseph, sold as a slave. R/.
His feet were weighed down in chains,
His neck was bound with iron,
Until what he said came to pass,
and the word of the Lord proved him true. R/.
R/. Remember the wonders the Lord has done.
Or: Alleluia.
Then the king sent orders and released him;
The ruler of the peoples set him free.
He made him master of his house
And ruler of all his possessions. R/.
ALLELUIA Mark 1:15
Alleluia. The kingdom of God is at hand; repent, and believe in the Gospel. Alleluia.
-GOSPEL-
“You received without pay, give without pay.”
A reading from the holy Gospel according to Matthew (Matthew 10:7-15)
At that time: Jesus said to his apostles, “Preach as you go, saying, ‘The kingdom of heaven is at hand.’ Heal the sick, raise the dead, cleanse lepers, cast out demons. You received without pay, give without pay. Take no gold, nor silver, nor copper in your belts, no bag for your journey, nor two tunics, nor sandals, nor a staff; for the labourer deserves his food. And whatever town or village you enter, find out who is worthy in it, and stay with him until you depart. As you enter the house, salute it. And if the house is worthy, let your peace come upon it; but if it is not worthy, let your peace return to you. And if any one will not receive you or listen to your words, shake off the dust from your feet as you leave that house or town. Truly, I say to you, it shall be more tolerable on the day of judgement for the land of Sodom and Gomorrah than for that town.”
The Gospel of the Lord.
TODAY’S REFLECTION
The instruction given to the apostles by Jesus involves three things: 1. A definition of their mission: the proclamation of the kingdom of God, curing the sick, raising the dead and driving out the devil. Jesus gives them a share of his own power and authority to carry out these powerful works. 2. The need for personal commitment and total trust. They “received without charge, give without charge….” They are to be totally committed, absolutely available and radically free from material baggage and earthly comforts, trusting solely in divine providence. 3. Their attitude to the possibility of rejection. It should not be an occasion for discouragement, but a challenge to move on with courage to other places with the same mission. Even today we have missionaries with the same mandate, going to distant and difficult terrains with the Good News, facing rejection, persecution and danger. Their only strength is the power of Christ that accompanies them.
PERSONAL DEVOTIONAL
Do not be afraid, I am with you! I am your God – let nothing terrify you! I will make you strong and help you; I will protect you and save you - Isaiah 41:10
- Father, revive the spirit of fear of God and self-control in me in Jesus name.
- I loose myself from all heart attacks rooted in fear, and I command all spirits of fear to leave in the name of Jesus.
- Ask God for pardon for the times you have allowed fear to rule your life.
Let Us Pray
Dear Jesus my shepherd, give me courage to overcome my fears, to stand firm in my faith, to live in accordance with your word, to walk the path of truth and love even when it is dangerous. Grant me courage to have strong-willed trust in your care and protection over me even in the midst of darkest situation.
Friday July 14, 2023
Office: Psalter Week 2
Mass and Preface of the day or Memorial
Vestment: Green/White
Today’s Rosary: The Sorrowful Mystery
-FIRST READING-
“Now let me die, since I have seen your face.”
A reading from the Book of Genesis (Genesis 46:1-7.2b-30)
In those days: Israel took his journey with all that he had, and came to Beersheba, and offered sacrifices to the God of his father Isaac. And God spoke to Israel in visions of the night, and said, “Jacob, Jacob.” And he said, “Here am I.” Then he said, “I am God, the God of your father; do not be afraid to go down to Egypt; for I will there make of you a great nation. I will go down with you to Egypt, and I will also bring you up again; and Joseph’s hand shall close your eyes.” Then Jacob set out from Beersheba; and the sons of Israel carried Jacob their father, their little ones, and their wives, in the wagons which Pharaoh had sent to carry him. They also took their cattle and their goods, which they had gained in the land of Canaan, and came into Egypt, Jacob and all his offspring with him, his sons, and his sons’ sons with him, his daughters, and his sons’ daughters; all his offspring he brought with him into Egypt. He sent Judah before him to Joseph, to appear before him in Goshen; and they came into the land of Goshen. Then Joseph made ready his chariot and went up to meet Israel his father in Goshen; and he presented himself to him, and fell on his neck, and wept on his neck a good while. Israel said to Joseph, “Now let me die, since I have seen your face and know that you are still alive.”
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Psalm 37:3-4.18-19.27-28.39-40 (R. 39a)
R/. From the Lord comes the salvation of the just.
Trust in the Lord and do good;
Then you will dwell in the land and safely pasture.
Find your delight in the Lord,
who grants your heart’s desire. R/.
The Lord takes note of the days of the blameless;
their heritage will last forever.
They shall not be put to shame in evil days;
in time of famine they shall have their fill. R/.
R/. From the Lord comes the salvation of the just.
Then turn away from evil and do good,
and you may abide forever;
for indeed, the Lord loves justice,
and will never forsake his faithful.
The unjust shall be wiped out forever,
And the descendants of the wicked destroyed. R/.
But from the Lord comes the salvation of the just,
their stronghold in time of distress.
The Lord helps them and rescues them,
Rescues and saves them from the wicked:
Because they take refuge in him. R/.
ALLELUIA John 16:13a; 14:26d
Alleluia. When the Spirit of truth comes, he will guide you into all the truth, and bring to your remembrance all that I have said to you. Alleluia.
-GOSPEL-
“It is not you who speak, but the Spirit of your Father.”
A reading from the holy Gospel according to Matthew (Matthew 10: 16-23)
At that time: Jesus said to his apostles, “Behold, I send you out as sheep in the midst of wolves; so be wise as serpents and innocent as doves. Beware of men; for they will deliver you up to councils, and flog you in their synagogues, and you will be dragged before governors and kings for my sake, to bear testimony before them and the Gentiles. When they deliver you up, do not be anxious about how you are to speak or what you are to say; for what you are to say will be given to you in that hour; for it is not you who speak, but the Spirit of your Father speaking through you. Brother will deliver up brother to death, and the father his child, and children will rise against parents and have them put to death; and you will be hated by all for my name’s sake. But he who endures to the end will be saved. When they persecute you in one town, flee to the next; for truly, I say to you, you will not have gone through all the towns of Israel, before the Son of man comes.
The Gospel of the Lord.
TODAY’S REFLECTION
Jesus foresees and foretells the moments of trial and suffering for his disciples. He cautions them to be prepared for the worst scenario. There will be an atmosphere of hatred, betrayal and even death, as he sends them out “like sheep among wolves.” He reminds them: “You will be universally hated on account of my name.” However, he also assures them of the power of the Holy Spirit, guiding them, speaking for them, and empowering them. Anyone who stands firm in the face of trials will be saved. Even today persecution of various kinds is a reality. One can explain the bravery and confidence of the missionaries only from the point of view of faith and trust in the assurance of Christ: “Do not worry about how to speak or what to say … the spirit of your father will be speaking in you.”
PERSONAL DEVOTIONAL
“But I will bless those who put their trust in me. They are like trees growing near a stream and sending out roots to the water. They are not afraid when hot weather comes, because their leaves stay green; they have no worries when there is no rain; they keep bearing fruit. - Jeremiah 17:7, 8
- Ask God for the gift of faith to trust Jesus as the shepherd of your life.
- Ask the Holy Spirit to open the eyes of those that put their trust in idols and gods that they may flee from destruction and surrender to the living God.
Let Us Pray
TAKE THIS PRAYER FOR TRUST IN JESUS BY ST. IGNATIUS OF LOYOLA:
O Christ Jesus, when all is darkness and we feel our weakness and helplessness, give us the sense of your presence, your love, and your strength. Help us to have perfect trust in your protecting love and strengthening power, so that nothing may frighten or worry us, for, living close to you, we shall see your hand, your purpose, your will through all things. In the name of Jesus. Amen
Saturday July 15, 2023
SAINT BONAVENTURE, B.D. (MEMORIAL)
Office: Memorial, Psalter Week 2
Mass and Preface of the Memorial
Vestment: White
Today’s Rosary: The Joyful Mystery
Vespers I of the 15th Sunday of the Year
-FIRST READING-
“God will visit you, and bring you up out of this land.”
A reading from the Book of Genesis (Genesis 49:29-33; 50:15-26a)
In those days: Jacob charged his sons, and said to them, “I am to be gathered to my people; bury me with my fathers in the cave that is in the field of Ephron the Hittite, in the cave that is in the field at Machpelah, to the east of Mamre, in the land of Canaan, which Abraham bought with the field from Ephron the Hittite to possess as a burying place. There they buried Abraham and Sarah his wife; there they buried Isaac and Rebekah his wife; and there I buried Leah — the field and the cave that is in it were purchased from the Hittites.” When Jacob finished charging his sons, he drew up his feet into the bed, and breathed his last, and was gathered to his people. When Joseph’s brothers saw that their father was dead, they said, “It may be that Joseph will hate us and pay us back for all the evil which we did to him.” So they sent a message to Joseph, saying, “Your father gave this command before he died, ‘Say to Joseph, Forgive, I pray you, the transgression of your brothers and their sin, because they did evil to you.’ And now, we beg you, forgive the transgression of the servants of the God of your father.” Joseph wept when they spoke to him. His brothers also came and fell down before him, and said, “Behold, we are your servants.” But Joseph said to them, “Fear not, for am I in the place of God? As for you, you meant evil against me; but God meant it for good, to bring it about that many people should be kept alive, as they are today. So do not fear; I will provide for you and your little ones.” Then he reassured them and comforted them. So Joseph dwelt in Egypt, he and his father’s house; and Joseph lived a hundred and ten years. And Joseph saw Ephraim’s children of the third generation; the children also of Machir the son of Manasseh were born upon Joseph’s knees. And Joseph said to his brothers, “I am about to die; but God will visit you, and bring you up out of this land to the land which he swore to Abraham, to Isaac, and to Jacob.” Then Joseph took an oath of the sons of Israel, saying, “God will visit you, and you shall carry up my bones from here.” So Joseph died, being a hundred and ten years old.
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Ps 105:1-2.3-4.6-7 (R. see Psalm 69:33)
R/. You who are poor, seek God, and your hearts will revive.
Give thanks to the Lord; proclaim his name.
Make known his deeds among the peoples.
O sing to him, sing his praise;
tell all his wonderful works! R/.
Glory in his holy name;
Let the hearts that seek the Lord rejoice.
Turn to the Lord and his strength;
constantly seek his face. R/.
R/. You who are poor, seek God, and your hearts will revive.
O children of Abraham, his servant,
O descendants of the Jacob he chose,
he, the Lord, is Our God;
his judgements are in all the earth. R/.
ALLELUIA 1 Peter 4:14
Alleluia. If you are reproached for the name of Christ, you are blessed, because the Spirit of God rests upon you. Alleluia.
-GOSPEL-
“Do not fear those who kill the body.”
A reading from the holy Gospel according to Matthew (Matthew 10:24-33)
At that time: Jesus said to his apostles, “A disciple is not above his teacher, nor a servant above his master; it is enough for the disciple to be like his teacher, and the servant like his master. If they have called the master of the house Beelzebul, how much more will they malign those of his household. So have no fear of them; for nothing is covered that will not be revealed, or hidden that will not be known. What I tell you in the dark, utter in the light; and what you hear whispered, proclaim up on the housetops. And do not fear those who kill the body but cannot kill the soul; rather fear him who can destroy both soul and body in hell. Are not two sparrows sold for a penny? And not one of them will fall to the ground without your Father’s will. But even the hairs of your head are all numbered. Fear not, therefore; you are of more value than many sparrows. So everyone who acknowledges me before men, I also will acknowledge before my Father who is in heaven; but whoever denies me before men, I also will deny before my Father who is in heaven.”
The Gospel of the Lord.
TODAY’S REFLECTION
In today’s gospel passage Jesus repeats thrice the words, “Do not be afraid”. He is aware of the fierce and deadly persecution his disciples would be subjected to, Jesus warns them that he himself would be subjected to persecution. They need to face such situations not with fear, but with courage and hope because they are blessed with the immortal soul which no one can destroy even though they may kill the material body. Secondly, the Heavenly Father is mindful of every situation, every movement, however small and insignificant they may be. He would not abandon his loved ones. The disciples need to stand firm and declare Christ despite trials. We need not lose faith and hope when the opposing powers strike at us. God is in Control, and he will continue to be in control till the end.
PERSONAL DEVOTIONAL:
“Not everyone who calls me, “Lord, Lord, will enter into the kingdom of heaven, but only those who do what my Father in heaven wants them to do. - Matthew 7:21
- Pray that the Lord will give you the grace to do the will of the Father in heaven
- Pray that God may use you as a vessel to reach out to the whole world
Let Us Pray
Lord Jesus, it is my desire to follow you in all that I do and to proclaim your wonder in all the earth; never let me do your work in vain but rather, that my works of charity and goodness may speak for me on the last day, in Jesus name. Amen
Sunday July 16, 2023
15th Week in Ordinary Time
Vestment: Green
Today’s Rosary: The Glorious Mystery
Theme of the Sunday: An Abundant Harvest from Difficult Soil. We are accustomed to seeing the effects of Advertising. When youngsters see ways of dressing or combing their hair in films or on TV, they imitate them. Why is the Gospel so slow in entering our hearts? This question is answered by today’s readings. The Gospel tells us it depends on the soil. Jesus assures us that even the most barren soil cannot long resist the penetrating force of the seed. The first reading strengthens this idea and compares the word of God to the rain that brings life. The second reading tells us that sowing is always difficult, it is a time of pain, though not the pain of death, merely the beginning of new life.
-FIRST READING-
“The rain makes the earth fruitful.”
A reading from the Book of Isaiah (Isaiah 55: 10-11)
Thus says the Lord: “As the rain and the snow come down from heaven, and do not return there but water the earth, making it bring forth and sprout, giving seed to the sower and bread to the eater, so shall my word be that goes forth from my mouth; it shall not return to me empty, but it shall accomplish that which I intend, and prosper in the thing for which I sent it.”
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Ps 65:9abcd.9e- 10.11- 12.13 (R. Lk5:Sa)
R/. The seed that fell into good soil yielded a hundredfold.
You visit the earth, give it water;
You fill it with riches.
God’s ever-flowing river brims over
to prepare the grain. R.
And thus you provide for the earth
you drench its furrows;
you level it, soften it with showers;
you bless its growth. R.
You crown they ear with your bounty.
Abundance flows in your pathways;
in pastures of the desert it flows. R.
The hills are girded with joy.
The meadows clothed with flocks.
The valleys are decked with wheat.
They shout for joy; yes, they sing! R
-SECOND READING-
“All creation is waiting for the revelation of the sons of God. ”
A reading from the Letter of Saint, Paul to the Romans (Romans 8:18-23)
Brethren: I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worth comparing with the glory that is to be revealed to us. For the creation waits with eager longing for the revealing of the sons of God; for the creation was subjected to futility, not of its own will but by the will of him who subjected it in hope; because the creation itself will be set free from its bondage to decay and obtain the glorious liberty of the children of God. We know that the whole creation has been groaning with labour pains together until now; and not only the creation, but we ourselves, who have the first fruits of the Spirit, groan inwardly as we wait for adoption as sons, the redemption of our bodies.
The word of the Lord.
ALLELUIA
Alleluia. The seed is the word of God, and the sower is Christ; all who find him will abide forever. Alleluia.
-GOSPEL-
“A sower went out to sow.
A reading from the holy Gospel according to Matthew (Matthew 13: 1-23)
* That same day Jesus went out of the house and sat beside the sea. And great crowds gathered about him, so that he got into a boat and sat there; and the whole crowd stood on the beach. And he told them many things in parables, saying: “A Sower went out to sow. And as he sowed, some seeds fell along the path, and the birds came and devoured them. Other seeds fell on rocky ground, where they had not much soil, and immediately they sprang up, since they had no depth of soil, but when the sun rose they were scorched; and since they had no root they withered away. Other seeds fell upon thorns, and the thorns grew up and choked them. Other seeds fell on good soil and brought forth grain, some a hundredfold, some sixty, some thirty. He who has ears, let him hear.” *
Then the disciples came and said to him, “Why do you speak to them in parables?” And he answered them, “To you it has been given to know the secrets of the kingdom of heaven, but to them it has not been given. For to him who has will more be given, and he will have abundance; but from him who has not, even what he has will be taken away. This is why I speak to them in parables, because seeing they do not see, and hearing they do not hear, nor do they understand. With them indeed is fulfilled the prophecy of Isaiah which says: ‘You shall indeed hear but never understand, and you shall indeed see but never perceive. For this people’s heart has grown dull, and their ears are heavy of hearing, and their eyes they have closed, lest they should perceive with their eyes, and hear with their ears, and understand with their heart, and turn for me to heal them. ’ But blessed are your eyes, for they see, and your ears, for they hear. Truly, I say to you, many prophets and righteous men longed to see what you see, and did not see it, and to hear what you hear, and did not hear it. “Hear then the parable of the sower. When any one hears the word of the kingdom and does not understand it, the evil one comes and snatches away what is sown in his heart; this is what was sown along the path. As for what was sown on rocky ground, this is he who hears the word and immediately receives it with joy; yet he has no root in himself, but endures for a while, and when tribulation or persecution arises on account of the word, immediately he falls away. As for what was sown among thorns, this is he who hears the word, but the cares of the world and the delight in riches choke the word, and it proves unfruitful. As for what was sown on good soil, this is he who hears the word and understands it; he indeed bears fruit, and yields, in one case a hundredfold, in another sixty, and in another thirty.”
* The Gospel of the Lord.*
Shorter form: Matthew 13: 1-9. Read between *
PRAYER OF THE FAITHFUL
The seed of faith must grow.
PRIEST: My brothers and sisters, in the parable of the sower, Jesus tells us that faith is like a seed which fully grows when it falls on rich soil. We make our prayers to God our Father, asking that he will prepare us and all his children to receive his word in love and openness.
READER: For vocations to the priesthood, (pause) let more young men be responsive to God’s call, and let his invitation to them to be priests fall on rich soil. (pause) Lord, hear us; and bless us with a living faith we pray Oh Lord.
For those in charge of the world’s economy, (pause) let them always be conscious of the world’s hungry, and by their laws, seek to help the poor rather than further enrich the privileged. (pause) Lord, hear us; and bless us with a living faith we pray Oh Lord.
For a good harvest for farmers, (pause) let their work on the land be made fruitful so that they provide food for the people, and let them bless the Lord for his unending goodness to them. (pause) Lord, hear us; and bless us with a living faith we pray Oh Lord.
For a growth of faith in the community, (pause) let every situation and experience of joy and sorrow be a means of deepening our Christian faith and commitment to the person of Jesus Christ. (pause) Lord, hear us; and bless us with a living faith we pray Oh Lord.
We pray in the silence of a living faith for our own intentions.
PRIEST: Father, you gave us the gift of faith, and we pray for your Spirit to increase it so that it grows day by day. Through Christ our Lord. Amen.
Today's Reflection
Jesus often spoke in parables in order to create opportunities for deep reflection on the lessons that are behind the daily events of our lives. The parable of the sower reflects one of these events. It is a narration of the life of a farmer who possesses in great measure the virtues of patience and hard work. At the same time he does not rely on his personal resourcefulness but rather on divine providence for the fruit of his labour. He scatters the seed everywhere with the hope that some might fall on rich soil. And the seed of God’s word, according to the prophet Isaiah, bears fruit in proportion to our disposition towards welcoming this word and allowing it to challenge and transform our lives. So we are all responsible for the type of soil we provide for God to sow his words in our hearts.
Personal Devotional
Actually I would prefer that all of you were as I am; but each one has a special gift from God, one person this gift, another that gift 1 Cor 7:7
- God give us the ability to identify my gift, so that I can praise you more with it..
- Pray for the renewal and out pouring of the Holy Spirit on me to be contented with the gift you have given me.
- Ask God for the gift of faith to trust Jesus as the shepherd of your life.
Let Us Pray
Oh Lord, give me the grace never to doubt God’s ability to satisfy all needs even though they require miracle.
MONDAY 17 July 2023
15th Week in Ordinary Time
Vestment: Green
Today’s Rosary: Joyful Mystery
-FIRST READING-
A reading from the Book of Exodus (Exodus1:8-14.22)
Let us deal shrewdly with Israel, lest they multiply.
In those days: there arose a new king over Egypt, who did not know Joseph. And he said to his people, “Behold, the sons of Israel are too many and too mighty for us. Come, let us deal shrewdly with them, lest they multiply, and, if war befall us, they join our enemies and fight against us and escape from the land.” Therefore they set taskmasters over them to afflict them with heavy burdens; and they built for Pharaoh store-cities, Pithom and Ra-amses. But the more they were oppressed, the more they multiplied and the more they spread abroad. And the Egyptians were in dread of the sons of Israel. So they made the people of Israel serve with rigour, and made their lives bitter with hard service, in mortar and brick, and in all kinds of work in the field; in all their work they made them serve with rigor. And Pharaoh commanded all his people, “Every son that is born to the Hebrews you shall cast into the Nile, but you shall let every daughter live.”
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Psalm 124:1-3.4-6.7-8 (R. 8a)
R. Our help is in the name of the Lord.
“If the Lord had not been on our side,”
let Israel say —
“If the Lord had not been on our side
when men rose against us,
then would they have swallowed us alive
when their anger was kindled.” R.
“Then would the waters have engulfed us,
the torrent gone over us;
over our head would have swept
the raging waters.”
Blest be the Lord who did not give us
a prey to their teeth! R.
Our life, like a bird, has escaped
from the snare of the fowler.
Indeed, the snare has been broken,
and we have escaped.
Our help is in the name of the Lord,
who made heaven and earth. R.
Alleluia Matthew 5:10
Alleluia. Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness’ sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Alleluia.
-GOSPEL-
A reading from the holy Gospel according to Matthew (Matthew 10:34-11:1)
“I have not come to bring peace, but a sword.”
At that time: Jesus said to his apostles, “Do not think that I have come to bring peace on earth; I have not come to bring peace, but a sword. For I have come to set a man against his father, and a daughter against her mother, and a daughter-in-law against her mother-in-law; and a man’s foes will be those of his own household. He who loves father or mother more than me is not worthy of me; and he who loves son or daughter more than me is not worthy of me; and he who does not take his cross and follow me is not worthy of me. He who finds his life will lose it, and he who loses his life for my sake will find it. He who receives you received me, and he who receives me receives him who sent me. He who receives a prophet because he is a prophet shall receive a prophet’s reward, and he who receives a righteous man because he is a righteous man shall receive a righteous man’s reward. And whoever gives to one of these little ones even a cup of cold water because he is a disciple, truly, I say to you, he shall not lose his reward.” And when Jesus had finished instructing his twelve disciples, he went on from there to teach and preach in their cities.
The Gospel of the Lord.
Today’s Reflection
Religious persecution is a reality in the world today as it always has been. What do we do? The roadmap has been provided by Jesus. Firstly, he admonishes us to be prepared for persecution in his name. Then he adds that, we must never retaliate. The battle is not ours. The battle is his and he has won the battle (Jn 16:33). Great spiritual men and women have gone through this road in the past and emerged victorious because they depended on God. We too can.
Personal Devotional
Answer me now, Lord! I have lost all hope. Don’t hide yourself from me, or I will be among those who go down to the world of the dead. Remember me each morning of your constant love, for I put my trust in you. My prayers go up to you; show me the way I should go. Psalm 143:7,8
- Let heaven trouble every persons or group who have taken what belongs to me in the name of Jesus.
- Let every strong person in my life, family or environment who refuse to release my blessings, breakthrough, miracle promotion or prosperities be visited by calamities and be forced to release my heritage by the Angels of God in the name of Jesus Christ.
- I release my helper to come to me now, in the name of Jesus Christ.
Let Us Pray
O loving God I am tired of managing poverty, give me the resources that will cancel every insult and shame which poverty has brought to me in the name of Jesus.
Blessings for the New Week
A very good morning to you my dearest friend. I hope your night was cool and you are ready to conquer this new week.
May God lead you as you begins this new week and may His presence and glory shield you from every harm.
As God promised Jacob that he will go with him and not to leave him, I pray that he shall lead you to where you will find favour and pasture and your coming back to your home shall be in Joy and with lots of testimony.
May the heavenly dew fall upon the labour of our hands so that it shall blossom and flourish super – abundantly.
Just maintain your stand before God in adoration and he will make everything well for you. Go out with faith, put in your best and let God surprise you with His blessings
May God be with you and help you to conquer the challenges that his week will bring. Amen.
Meditation: Genesis 28:1-22 / Psalm 91
TUESDAY 18 July 2023
15th Week in Ordinary Time
Vestment: Green
Today’s Rosary: Sorrowful Mystery
Our Lady of Mount Carmel
-FIRST READING-
A reading from the Book of Exodus (Exodus 2: 1-15a)
She named him Moses, for she said, “Because I drew him out of the water”; and when he had grown up, he went out to his people.
In those days: A man from the house of Levi went and took to wife a daughter of Levi. The woman conceived and bore a son; and when she saw that he was a goodly child, she hid him three months. And when she could hide him no longer she took for him a basket made of bulrushes, and daubed it with bitumen and pitch; and she put the child in it and placed it among the reeds at the river’s brink. And his sister stood at a distance, to know what would be done to him. Now the daughter of Pharaoh came down to bathe at the river, and her maidens walked beside the river; she saw the basket among the reeds and sent her maid to fetch it. When she opened it she saw the child; and behold, the baby was crying. She took pity on him and said, “This is one of the Hebrews’ children.” Then his sister said to Pharaoh’s daughter, “Shall I go and call you a nurse from the Hebrew women to nurse the child for you?” And Pharaoh’s daughter said to her, “Go.” So the girl went and called the child’s mother. And Pharaoh’s daughter said to her, “Take this child away, and nurse him for me, and I will give you your wages.” So the woman took the child and nursed him. And the child grew, and she brought him to Pharaoh’s daughter, and he became her son; and she named him Moses, for she said, “Because I drew him out of the water.” One day, when Moses had grown up, he went out to’ his people and looked on their burdens; and he saw an Egyptian beating a Hebrew, one of his people. He looked this way and that, and seeing no one he killed the Egyptian and hid him in the sand. When he went out the next day, behold, two Hebrews were struggling together; and he said to the man that did the wrong, “Why do you strike your fellow?” He answered, “Who made you a prince and a judge over us? Do you mean to kill me as you killed the Egyptian?” Then Moses was afraid, and thought, “Surely the thing is known.” When Pharaoh heard of it, he sought to kill Moses. But Moses fled from Pharaoh, and stayed in the land of Midian.
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Psalm 69:3.14.30-31.33-34 (R. see 33)
R. You who are poor, seek God, and your hearts will revive.
I have sunk into the mud of the deep,
where there is no foothold.
I have entered the waters of the deep,
where the flood overwhelms we. R.
But I pray to you, O Lord,
for a time of your favour.
In your great mercy, answer me, O God,
with your salvation that never fails. R.
As for me in my poverty and pain,
let your salvation, O God, raise me up.
Then I will praise God's name with a song;
I will glorify him with thanksgiving. R.
The poor when they see it will be glad,
and God-seeking hearts will revive;
for the Lord listens to the needy,
and does not spurn his own in their chains. R.
ALLELUIA Psalm 95:7d.8a
Alleluia. Today, harden not your hearts, but listen to the voice of the Lord. Alleluia.
-GOSPEL-
A reading from the holy Gospel according to Matthew Matthew11:20-24
It shall be more tolerable on the day of judgement for Tyre and Sodom than for you.”
At that time: Jesus began to upbraid the cities where most of his mighty works had been done, because they did not repent. “Woe to you, Chorazin! woe to you, Bethsaida! for if the mighty works done in you had been done in Tyre and Sidon, they would have repented long ago in sackcloth and ashes. But I tell you, it shall be more tolerable on the day of judgement for Tyre and Sidon than for you. And you, Capernaum, will you be exalted to heaven? You shall be brought down to Hades. For if the mighty works done in you had been done in Sodom, it would have remained until this day. But I tell you that it shall be more tolerable on the day of judgement for the land of Sodom than for you.”
The Gospel of the Lord.
Today's Reflection
There is a feeling of pain that come with unreturned affection. Parents expect, even when they do not say it, that the resources they spend on their children will enable them to turn out better persons. When the reverse happens, regret sets in. jesus came close to that as he looked at places where most of his mighty works were done. God has shown us so much love. He sent his son to die for us, and secondly, he manifests daily in the events of our lives. We may not have reached where we want to be in life. But we aren’t where we used to be. How do we respond to all that which we have received from God?
Personal Devotional
But now I tell you; do not take revenge on someone who wrongs you, if anyone slaps you on the right cheek, let him slap your left cheek too. Matthew 5:39
- Ask the Lord to give you the grace to bear wrong and accept its outcome
- Lord grant me the grace to say sorry, even when I am wronged
Let Us Pray
Lord, I am very sorry that I sin against you every day through my actions and deed, pleas look not on my sins, but on the faith of your church in Jesus name Amen.
Wednesday 19 July 2023
15th Week in Ordinary Time
Vestment: Green
Today’s Rosary: Glorious Mystery
-FIRST READING-
A reading from the Book of Exodus (Exodus 3:1-6.9-12)
“The angel of the Lord appeared to Moses in a flame of fire out of the midst of a bush.”
In those days: Moses was keeping the flock of his father-in-law, Jethro, the priest of Midian; and he led his flock to the west side of the wilderness, and came to Horeb, the mountain of God. And the angel of the Lord appeared to him in a flame of fire out of the midst of a bush; and he looked, and behold, the bush was burning, yet it was not consumed. And Moses said, “I will turn aside and see this great sight, why the bush is not burnt.” When the Lord saw that he turned aside to see, God called to him out of the bush, “Moses, Moses!” And he said, “Here am I.” Then he said, “Do not come near; put off your shoes from your feet, for the place on which you are standing is holy ground.” And he said, “I am the God of your father, the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob.” And Moses hid his face, for he was afraid to look at God. The Lord said, “Now, behold, the cry of the sons of Israel has come to me, and I have seen the oppression with which the Egyptians oppress them. Come, I will send you to Pharaoh that you may bring forth my people, the sons of Israel, out of Egypt.” But Moses said to God, “Who am I that I should go to Pharaoh, and bring the sons of Israel out of Egypt?” He said, “But I will be with you; and this shall be the sign for you, that I have sent you: when you have brought forth the people out of Egypt, you shall serve God upon this mountain.”
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Psalm 103:1-2.3-4.6-7 (R. 8a)
R. The Lord is compassionate and gracious.
Bless the Lord, O my soul,
and all within me, his. holy name,
Bless the Lord, O my soul,
and never forget all his benefits. R.
It is the Lord who forgives all your sins,
who heals every one of your ills,
who redeems your life from the grave,
who crowns you with mercy and compassion. R
.
The Lord does just deeds,
gives full justice to all who are oppressed.
He made known his ways to Moses,
and his deeds to the children of Israel. R.
ALLELUIA Matthew 11 :25
Alleluia. Blessed are you, Father, Lord of heaven and earth, that you have revealed to little ones the mysteries of the kingdom. Alleluia.
-GOSPEL-
A reading from the holy Gospel according to Matthew (Matthew11:25-27)
“You have hidden these things from the wise and revealed them to infants.”
At that time Jesus declared, “I thank you, Father, Lord of heaven and earth, that you have hidden these things from the wise and understanding and revealed them to infants; yes, Father, for such was your gracious will. All things have been delivered to me by my Father; and no one knows the Son except the Father, and no one knows the Father except the Son and any one to whom the Son chooses to reveal him.”
The Gospel of the Lord.
Today’s Reflection
An English adage says, “When God sends one on a rocky path he provides strong shoes for him.” When Moses steps on holy ground, God asks him to first remove his shoes. As we draw closer to God in prayer, listening to his plans for us in life, he calls us to drop certain things about ourselves. These may be attitudes, behavior or lifestyles that are unworthy of us as God’s children. That act of dropping is the purification and cleansing that we need to go through on the journey God is calling us to. Then we will be prepared and no longer ask, “Who am I?”
Personal Devotional
- Many ways seem right to the man but the end thereof is condemnation. Ask the Holy Spirit to redirect your footsteps to the Lord’s path.
-Your eyes may have been veiled to see Jesus, ask the Lord to open the eyes of your mind to see and accept Jesus live in their lives and for their salvation.
-Pray that the sound teachings of the scripture will not be polluted by the false teaching of the Rabbis.
-Pray that you are not excited by the miracles of Jesus but that you abide by the truth of the word of God.
Let Us Pray
Christ Jesus you hung upon a cross and died for us, so that we might live for you. Your body was broken and your blood shed, so that we might be healed and made whole. You were faithful unto death, so that we might be faithful unto life. Your last command was that we might love one another, one family together from every tribe and nation, a new creation united through your sacrifice. Redeemed by your blood, healed by your love, united by your covenant of peace. In your death may we find life in the name of Jesus. Amen
Thursday 20 July 2023
15th Week in Ordinary Time
Vestment: Green
Today’s Rosary: Luminous Mystery
-FIRST READING-
A reading from the Book of Exodus (Exodus 3: 13-20)
“I am who am. I am has sent me to you.”
In those days: [Hearing the voice of the Lord out of the midst of the bush,] Moses said to God, “If I come to the sons of Israel and say to them, ‘The God of your fathers has sent me to you,’ and they ask me, ‘What is his name?’ what shall I say to them?” God said to Moses, “I AM WHO I AM.” And he said, “Say this to the sons of Israel, ‘I AM has sent me to you.”’ God also said to Moses, “Say this to the sons of Israel, ‘The Lord, the God of your fathers, the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob, has sent me to you’: this is my name for ever, and thus I am to be remembered throughout all generations. Go and gather the elders of Israel together, and say to them, ‘The Lord, the God of your fathers, the God of Abraham, of Isaac, and of Jacob, has appeared to me, saying, “I have observed you and what has been done to you in Egypt; and I promise that I will bring you up out of the affliction of Egypt, to the land of the Canaanites, the Hittites, the Amorites, the Perizzites, the Hivites, and the Jebusites, a land flowing with milk and honey.”’ And they will listen to your voice; and you and the elders of Israel shall go to the king of Egypt and say to him, ‘The Lord, the God of the Hebrews, has met with us; and now, we beg you, let us go a three days’ journey into the wilderness, that we may sacrifice to the Lord our God.’ I know that the king of Egypt will not let you go unless compelled by a mighty hand. So I will stretch out my hand and strike Egypt with all the wonders which I will do in it; after that he will let you go.”
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Ps 105: 1 and 5.8-9.24-25.26-27 (R. 8a)
R. The Lord remembers his covenant forever.
Or: Alleluia.
Give thanks to the Lord; proclaim his name.
Make known his deeds among the peoples.
Remember the wonders he has done,
his marvels and his words of judgement. R.
He remembers his covenant forever:
the promise he ordained
for a thousand generations,
the covenant he made with Abraham,
the oath he swore to Isaac. R.
He gave his people great increase;
he made them stronger than their foes,
whose hearts he turned to hate his people,
and to deal deceitfully with his servants. R.
Then he sent Moses his servant,
and Aaron whom he, had chosen.
They performed God’s signs among them,
and his wonders in the land of Ham. R.
ALLELUIA Matthew 11:28
Alleluia. Come to me, all who labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest, says the Lord. Alleluia.
-GOSPEL-
A reading from the holy Gospel according to Matthew (Matthew 11:28-30)
“I am gentle and lowly in heart.”
At that time: Jesus declared, “Come to me, all who labour and are heavy laden, and l will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me; for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.”
The Gospel of the Lord.
Today’s Reflection
Mistakes abound in life, yes. The trick, however, is to make it easier for ourselves by learning from those mistakes and not repeating them. A great advantage we have is to learn from someone who is like us in everything except mistakes: Jesus Christ. He is meek and humble, even though his state is divine. Through this he attains the most exalted and glorious state in life. Isn’t that wonderful? Modelling our lives after someone great is one of the greatest lessons of life. We pass through a lot because we are short of models to learn from. Look up to Jesus.
Think well. Speak well. Do well. These three things, through the mercy of God, will make a man go to Heaven.
Personal Devotional.
I have the strength to face all conditions by the power that Christ gives me. Philippians 4:13
- Ask for mercy for the times you doubted God’s ability to supply all your needs
- God for the gift of faith to trust Jesus as the shepherd of your life.
- Tell God about the things you need in your life.
Let Us Pray
Dear Jesus my shepherd, give me courage to overcome my fears, to stand firm in my faith, to live in accordance with your word, to walk the path of truth and love even when it is dangerous. Grant me courage to have dogged trust in your care and protection over me even in the midst of darkest situation.
FRIDAY 21 July 2023
Weekday 15
Vestment: Green
Today’s Rosary: Sorrowful Mystery
-FIRST READING-
A reading from the Book of Exodus (Exodus11:10-12:l4)
You shall kill the lamb in the evening, and I will pass over you.
In those days: Moses and Aaron did many wonders before Pharaoh; and the Lord hardened Pharaoh’s heart, and he did not let the sons of Israel go out of his land. The Lord said to Moses and Aaron in the land of Egypt, “This month shall be for you the beginning of months; it shall be the first month of the year for you. Tell all the congregation of Israel that on the tenth day of this month they shall take every man a lamb according to their fathers’ houses, a lamb for a household; and if the household is too small for a lamb, then a man and his neighbour next to his house shall take according to the number of persons; according to what each can eat you shall make your count for the lamb. Your lamb shall be without blemish, a male a year old; you shall take it from the sheep or from the goats; and you shall keep it until the fourteenth day of this month, when the whole assembly of the congregation of Israel shall kill their lambs in the evening. Then they shall take some of the blood, and put it on the two doorposts and the lintel of the houses in which they eat them. They shall eat the flesh that night, roasted; with unleavened bread and bitter herbs they shall eat it. Do not eat any of it raw or, boiled with water, but roasted, its head with its legs and its inner parts. And you shall let none of it remain until the morning, anything that remains until the morning you shall burn. In this manner you shall eat it: your loins girded, your sandals on your feet, and your staff in your hand; and you shall eat it in haste. It is the Lord’s Passover. For I will pass through the land of Egypt that night, and I will strike all the first-born in the land of Egypt, both man and beast; and on a1l, the gods of Egypt I will execute judgements: I am the Lord. The blood shall be a sign for you, upon the houses where you are; and when I see the blood, I will pass over you, and no plague shall fall upon you to destroy you, when I strike the land of Egypt. This day shall be for you a memorial day, and you shall keep it as a feast to the Lord; throughout your generations you shall observe it as an ordinance for ever.”
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Ps 116: 12-13.15 and 16bc.17-18 (R. 13)
R. The cup of salvation I will raise,
I will call on the name of the Lord.
Or: Alleluia.
How can I repay the Lord
for all his goodness to me?
The cup of salvation I will raise;
I will call on the name of the Lord. R.
How precious in the eyes of the Lord
is the death of his faithful.
Your servant am I, the son of your handmaid;
you have loosened my bonds. R.
A thanksgiving sacrifice I make;
I will call on the name of the Lord.
My vows to the Lord I will fulfil
before all his people. R.
ALLELUIA John 10:27
Alleluia. My sheep hear my voice; says the Lord; and I know them, and they follow me. Alleluia.
-GOSPEL-
A reading from the holy Gospel according to Matthew (Matthew 12:1-8)
“The Son of man is lord of the sabbath.”
At that time Jesus went through the grain fields on the sabbath; his disciples were hungry, and they began to pluck heads of grain and to eat. But when the Pharisees saw it, they said to him, “Look, your disciples are doing what is not lawful to do on the sabbath.” He said to them, “Have you not read what David did, when he was hungry, and those who were with him: how he entered the house of God and ate the showbread, which it was not lawful for him to eat nor for those who were with him, but only for the priests? Or have you not read in the law how on the sabbath the priests in the temple profane the sabbath, and are guiltless? I tell you, something greater than, the temple is here. And if you had known what this means, ‘I desire mercy, and not sacrifice,’ you would not have condemned the guiltless. For the Son of man is Lord of the Sabbath.”
The Gospel of the Lord.
Today’s Reflection
Laws are good. They help to keep society in order and maintain security of life and property. However, tied to the law is the spirit of the law. Beyond order and security, the law looks out for the good of human beings. Any law that stands against this good is not a just law. We are a fortunate people. We are guided not just by laws in our journey to salvation; we are guided by laws and grace. Every day we are confronted with choices between good and evil. Our choices daily should be informed by the laws of God and also by complete reliance on the grace of God.
Personal Devotional:
- Make a prayer of repentance from the depth of your heart.
- Pray for our hearts to be softened towards one another, so that we can give and receive forgiveness readily within our families, churches and communities.
Let Us Pray:
O Lord, I am weak and broken, surrounded on all sides by corruption and perversion. Lord have mercy on me: protect me from my enemies who devour me, and guide me in the way of perfection. No matter what happens to me, whether it be an attack or a seduction, may my love for you protect me from falling into sin. May I live a holy life no matter what others do around me – Amen.
SATURDAY 22 July 2023
15th Week in Ordinary Time
Vestment: Green
Today’s Rosary: Joyful Mystery
ST MARY MAGDALENE (FEAST)
Mary of Magdala was among the women who assisted Jesus and the apostles as they travelled and preached the Good News. This Mary stood at the foot of the Cross, and was the first to encounter the risen Lord (Mk16:9). The Byzantine Liturgy claims that Jesus made Mary Magdalene “the apostle of the Apostles.”
Entrance Antiphon Jn 20:17
The Lord said to Mary Magdalene: Go to my brothers and tell them: I am going to my Father and your Father, to my God and your God.
Collect
O God, whose Only Begotten Son entrusted Mary Magdalene before all others with announcing the great joy of the Resurrection, grant, we pray, that, through her intercession and example, we may proclaim the living Christ and come to see him reigning in your glory. Who lives and reigns with you. . .
The Gospel of this memorial is proper.
-FIRST READING-
“I found him whom my soul loves.”
A reading from the Song of Solomon (Song of Solomon 3:1-4ab)
The bride responds: Upon my bed by night I sought him whom my soul loves; I sought him, but found him not; I called him, but he gave no answer. I will rise now and go about the city, in the streets and in the squares; I will seek him whom my soul loves. ”I sought him, but found him not. The watchmen found me, as they went about in the city. “Have you seen him whom my soul loves?” Scarcely had I passed them, when I found him whom my soul loves.
The word of the Lord.
Or the following:
-FIRST READING-
We regard Christ according to the flesh no longer.
A reading from the second Letter of Saint Paul to the Corinthians (2 Corinthians 5:14-17)
Brethren: The love of Christ urges us on, because we are convinced that one has died for all; therefore all have died. And he died for all, that those who live might live no longer for themselves but for him who for their sake died and was raised. From now on, therefore, we regard no one according to the flesh; even though we once regarded Christ according to the flesh, we regard him thus no longer. Therefore, if any one is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old has passed away, behold, the new his come.
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Psalm63:2.2-4.5-6.8-9(R.see2b)
R/. For you my soul is thirsting, O Lord, my God.
O God, you are my God; at dawn I seek you;
For you my soul is thirsting.
For you my flesh is pining,
Like a dry, weary land without water. R.
I have come before you in the sanctuary,
To behold your strength and your glory.
Your loving mercy is better than life;
My lips will speak your praise. R.
I will bless you all my life;
In your name I will lift up my hands.
My soul shall be filled as with a banquet;
With joyful lips, my mouth shall praise you. R.
For you have been my strength;
In the shadow of your wings I rejoice.
My soul clings fast to you;
Your right hand upholds me. R.
ALLELUIA
Alleluia. O Mary, tell us what you saw along the way. The tomb I saw of the living Christ, and the glory of the Risen One. Alleluia.
-GOSPEL-
“Woman, why are you weeping? Whom do you seek? ”
A reading from the holy Gospel according to John (John 20:1-2.11-18)
Now on the first day of the week, Mary Magdalene came to the tomb early, while it was still dark, and saw that the stone had been taken away from the tomb. So she ran, and went to Simon Peter and the other disciple, the one whom Jesus loved, and said to them, “They have taken the Lord out of the tomb, and we do not know where they have laid him.” But Mary stood weeping outside the tomb, and as she wept she stooped to look into the tomb; and she saw two angels in white, sitting where the body of Jesus had lain, one at the head and one at the feet. They said to her, “Woman, why are you weeping?” She said to them, “Because they have taken away my Lord, and I do not know where they have laid him.” Saying this, she turned round and saw Jesus standing, but she did not know that it was Jesus. Jesus said to her, “Woman, why are you weeping? Whom do you seek?” Supposing him to be the gardener, she said to him, “Sir, if you have carried him away, tell me where you have laid him, and I will take him away.” Jesus said to her, “Mary.” She turned and said to him in Hebrew, “Rabboni!”(which means Teacher). Jesus said to her, “Do not hold me, for I have not yet ascended to the Father; but go to my brethren and say to them, I am ascending to my Father and your Father, to my God and your God.” Mary Magdalene went and said to the disciples, “I have seen the Lord”; and she told them that he had said these things to her.
The Gospel of the Lord.
Today's Reflection
Jesus forgave Mary Mgdalene her many sins because she had loved much. She proved her repentance by wiping his feet with her tears of sorrow and anointed them with precious ointment. She showed her gratitude by dedicating the rest of her life to the service of the kingdom. She is said to be one of the women who courageously accompanied Jesus even to the foot of the cross. Above all, she was the first person to witness the resurrection of Jesus. According to one tradition, Mary Madgalene spent the last thirty years of her life in prayer and contemplation about heavenly realities. Her story depicts the wonders of God’s grace always at work in the life of those who believe in Christ and are always ready to do God’s will at all times.
Personal Devotional
Dearly beloved in Christ,
GOD has promised us that children are his heritage, and none shall be barren in the land. We stand firmly on this promises and decree that as many as are believing him for the fruit of the womb, their months shall soon be filled with testimonies, Amen
Reflection:
The Lord’s angel appeared to her and said, “You have not been able to have children, but you will soon be pregnant and have a son. Judges 13:3
- Lord, cancel the evil consequences of any broken demonic promise or dedication.
- Lord, I promise to be your friend from now on.
- Pray with Hosea this prayer of forgiveness for turning to other gods: “forgive all our sins and accept our prayer and we will praise you as we have promised.” (Pray seriously)
Let Us Pray
O Lord, hasten your word to perform it in every department of my life in Jesus name Amen.
Sunday July 23, 2023
16th Sunday in Ordinary Time
Vestment: Green
Today’s Rosary: The Glorious Mystery
Theme of the Sunday: God’s Patience and Our Impatience. We instinctively divide ourselves into good and evil, friends and enemies. The consequence of such a distinction is in tolerance and a desire to solve immediately whatever tensions arise from them. Some ask God to intervene and judge and punish others. The readings‘ today tell us that God does not do things like that. The first reading, teaches us that he uses his power not to punish us, but to save us; he wants all of us to do likewise. The gospel tells us to accept with peace of mind the presence of evil in the world, and invites us to recognise the weeds in our own hearts. It assures us that the love of God will one day destroy it. The second reading speaks of the Spirit that prays for us, beseeching the Father to destroy all evil. This prayer will certainly be heard.
Entrance Antiphon Ps53:6.8
See, I have God for my help. The Lord sustains my soul. I will sacrifice to you with willing heart, and praise your name, O Lord, for it is good.
Collect
Show favour, O Lord, to your servants, and mercifully increase the gifts of your grace, that made fervent in hope, faith and charity, they may be ever watchful in keeping your commands. Through our Lord...
-FIRST READING-
“You give repentance for sins.”
A reading from the Book of Wisdom (Wisdom 12:13.16-l9)
There is no god besides you, whose care is for all men, to whom you should prove that you have not judged unjustly; for your strength is the source of righteousness, and your sovereignty over all causes you to spare all. For you show your strength when men doubt the completeness of your power, and rebuke any insolence among those who know it. You who are sovereign in strength judge with mildness, and with great forbearance you govern us; for you have power to act whenever you choose. Through such works you have taught your people that the righteous man must be kind, and you have filled your sons with good hope, because you give repentance for sins.
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Psalm86:5-6.9-10.15-16a(R.5a)
R/. O Lord, you are good and forgiving.
O Lord, you are good and forgiving,
full of mercy to all who call to you.
Give ear, O Lord, to my prayer,
And attend to my voice in supplication. R.
All the nations you have made shall come;
they will bow down before you,
O Lord, and glorify your name,
For you are great and do marvellous deeds,
you who alone are God. R.
But you, O God, are compassionate and gracious,
slow to anger, O Lord,
abundantin mercy and fidelity;
turn and take pity on me. R.
-SECOND READING-
“The Spirit himself intercedes for us with sighs too deep forwa rds. ”
A reading from the Letter of Saint Paul to the Romans (Romans 8:26-27)
Brethren: The Spirit helps us in our weakness; for we do not know how to pray as we ought, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us with sighs too deep for words. And he who searches the hearts of men knows what is the mind of the Spirit, because the Spirit intercedes for the saints according to the will of God.
The word of the Lord.
ALLELUIA Matthew 11:25
Alleluia. Blessed are you, Father, Lord of heaven and earth, that you have revealed to little ones the mysteries of the kingdom. Alleluia.
-GOSPEL-
“Let both grow together until the harvest.”
A reading from the holy Gospel according to Matthew (Matthew 13:24-43)
*At that time: Jesus put another parable before the crowds, saying, “The kingdom of heaven may be compared to a man who sowed good seed in his field; but while men were sleeping, his enemy came and sowed weeds among the wheat, and went away. So when the plants came up and bore grain, then the weeds appeared also. “And the servants of the householder came and said to him, ‘Sir, did you not sow good seed in your field? How then has it weeds?’ He said to them, ‘An enemy has done this.’ The servants said to him, ‘Then do you want us to go and gather them?’ But he said, ‘No; lest in gathering the weeds you root up the wheat along with them. Let both grow together until the harvest; and at harvest time I will tell the reapers, Gather the weeds first and bind them in bundles to be burned, but gather the wheat into my barn. ”’ * Another parable he put before them, saying, “The kingdom of heaven is like a grain of mustard seed which a man took and sowed in his field; it is the smallest of all seeds, but when it has grown it is the greatest of shrubs and becomes a tree, so that the birds of the air come and make nests in its branches.” He told them another parable. “The kingdom of heaven is like leaven which a woman took and hid in three measures of meal, till it was all leavened.” All this Jesus said to the crowds in parables; indeed he said nothing to them without a parable. This was to fulfil what was spoken by the prophet: “I will open my mouth in parables, I will utter what has been hidden since the foundation of the world.” Then he left the crowds and went into the house. And his disciples came to him, saying, “Explain to us the parable of the weeds of the field.” He answered, “He who sows the good seed is the Son of man; the field is the world, and the good seed means the sons of the kingdom; the weeds are the sons of the evil one, and the enemy who sowed them is the devil; the harvest is the close of the age, and the reapers are angels. Just as the weeds are gathered and burned with fire, so will it be at the close of the age. The Son of man will send his angels, and they will gather out of his kingdom all causes of sin and all evildoers, and throw them into the furnace of fire, where there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth. Then the righteous will shine like the sun in the kingdom of their Father. He who has ears, let him hear.”
The Gospel of the Lord.*
PRAYERS OF THE FAITHFUL
The Spirit is our help.
PRIEST: Let us pray to God our Father who sent his only Son to save us from our sin, and ask the help of the Holy Spirit for all the graces for the Church and the world.
READER:
For the Pope, (pause) that he may be guided by the Holy Spirit, so that while still conscious of his human weakness, he may continue to be a great spiritual leader in our world, by the example of his unshakeable faith and warm love. (pause) Father, have mercy on us; through the power of your Holy Spirit we pray Oh Lord.
For a greater spirit of understanding in society, (pause) that all leaders, aware of their own limitations, may seek to achieve reconciliation and mutual forgiveness between polarized sections of the community, so that all strive to live in peace and harmony. (pause) Father, have mercy on us; through the power of your Holy Spirit we pray Oh Lord.
For those who see no way out of their moral weakness (pause) that they may call on the Holy Spirit, who alone can help them to turn again top God, the Father of mercy, who is ever ready to forgive and to console. (pause) Father, have mercy on us; through the power of your Holy Spirit we pray Oh Lord.
For a deeper spirit of prayer in the community, (pause) that we may ask the Holy Spirit to help us in our weakness, teaching us how to pray for the things of the Spirit, by always calling on God as a Father, (pause) Father, have mercy on us; through the power of your Holy Spirit we pray Oh Lord.
We pray in silence for our own petitions to God our Father, who knows our needs.
PRIEST: Father, you give us your Holy Spirit as a strength for our weakness, and a help by which we grow in holiness of life. Through Christ our Lord. Amen.
Today's Reflection
Again, Jesus makes use of the parables of the weeds, the mustard seed and yeast to get across to his audience the lessons of the kingdom. For him, it is the result of the constant battle between good and evil forces that is inherent in individuals and institutions. The kingdom of God will triumph only when we allow our positive intentions and choices to gradually override our negative intentions. God deals patiently with his children and therefore will be able to sort out the various contradictory situations that surround us. From the parable of the mustard seed we learn that small beginnings often lead to great endings! Though it started as a small community, the church is meant to grow and provide shade for all peoples, cultures and nations of the world. It is also expected to be like dough capable of positively influencing and transforming society. The second reading highlights the role of the Holy Spirit of God in transforming individuals so that they in turn will world towards the transformation of the world.
Personal Devotional:
- Make a prayer of repentance from the depth of your heart.
- Pray for our hearts to be softened towards one another, so that we can give and receive forgiveness readily within our families, churches and communities.
Let Us Pray:
O Lord, I am weak and broken, surrounded on all sides by corruption and perversion. Lord have mercy on me: protect me from my enemies who devour me, and guide me in the way of perfection. No matter what happens to me, whether it be an attack or a seduction, may my love for you protect me from falling into sin. May I live a holy life no matter what others do around me – Amen.
Monday July 24, 2023
Vestment: Green
Today’s Rosary: The Joyful Mystery
Prayer for those looking for the fruit of the womb
Within the next 7 days fom today 24th – Sunday 30th, let us kindly offer at least one Our Father, One Hail Mary and Glory be… for the intention of couples waiting on God for the fruit of the womb. You can also offer a fast for their Special Intention if you’re disposed. (As you’re praying for others, you’re also praying for yourself) God will richly bless you as you do in Jesus name.
-FIRST READING-
“They shall know that I am the Lord, when I have gotten glory over Pharaoh.”
A reading from the Book of Exodus (Exodus14:5-18).
In those days: When the king of Egypt was told that the people had fled, the mind of Pharaoh and his servants was changed towards the people, and they said, “What is this we have done, that we have let Israel go from serving us?” So he made ready his chariot and took his army with him, and took six hundred picked chariots and all the other chariots of Egypt with officers over all of them. And the Lord hardened the heart of Pharaoh king of Egypt and he pursued the sons of Israel as they went forth defiantly. The Egyptians pursued them, all Pharaoh’s horses and chariots and his horsemen and his army, and overtook them encamped at the sea, by Pih-hiroth, in front of Baal-zephon. When Pharaoh drew near, the sons of Israel lifted up their eyes, and behold, the Egyptians were marching after them; and they were in great fear. And the sons of Israel cried out to the Lord; and they said to Moses, “Is it because there are no graves in Egypt that you have taken us away to die in the wilderness? What have you done to us, in bringing us out of Egypt? Is not this what we said to you in Egypt, ‘Let us alone and let us serve the Egyptians’? For it would have been better for us to serve the Egyptians than to die in the wilderness.” And Moses said to the people, “Fear not, stand firm, and see the salvation of the Lord, which he will work for you today; for the Egyptians whom you see today, you shall never, see again. The Lord will fight for you, and you have only to be still.” The Lord said to Moses, “Why do you cry to me? Tell the sons of Israel to go forward. Lift up your rod, and stretch out your hand over the sea and divide it, that the sons of Israel may go on dry ground through the sea. And I will harden the hearts of the Egyptians so that they shall go in after them, and I will get glory over Pharaoh and all his host, his chariots, and his horsemen. And the Egyptians shall know that I am the Lord, when I have gotten glory over Pharaoh, his chariots, and his horsemen.”
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Exodus 15:1-2.3-4.5-6 (R.1a).
R/. I will sing to the Lord, for he has triumphed gloriously.
I will sing to the Lord, for he has triumphed gloriously;
The horse and his rider he has thrown into the sea.
The Lord is my strength and my song,
And he has become my salvation;
This is my God, and I will praise him,
My father’s God, and I will exalt him. R.
The Lord is a man of war; the Lord is his name.
Pharaoh’s chariots and his host he cast into the sea;
and his picked officers are sunk in the Red Sea. R.
The floods cover them;
They went down into the depths like a stone.
Your right hand, O Lord, glorious in power,
Your right hand, O Lord, shatters the enemy. R.
ALLELUIA
Alleluia. Today, harden not your hearts, but listen to the voice of the Lord. Alleluia.
-GOSPEL-
“The queen of the South will arise at the judgement with this generation.”
A reading from the holy Gospel according to Matthew (Matthew 12:38-42).
At that time: Some of the scribes and Pharisees said to Jesus, “Teacher, we wish to see a sign from you.” But he answered them, “An evil and adulterous generation seeks for a sign; but no sign shall be given to it except the sign of the prophet Jonah. For as Jonah was three days' and three nights in the belly of the whale, so will the Son of man be three days and three nights in the heart of the earth. The men of Nineveh will arise at the judgement with this generation and condemn it; for they repented at the preaching of Jonah, and behold, something greater than Jonah is here. The queen of the South will arise at the judgement with this generation and condemn it; for she came from the ends of the earth to hear the wisdom of Solomon, and behold, something greater than Solomon is here.”
The Gospel of the Lord.
Today’s reflection
The Hebrew people conveniently forgot all the mighty works of God when they saw the Egyptian army pursuing them. They began to murmur against God and complain against Moses. Instead of trusting in Yahweh’s power to deliver them, they gave themselves to their own fears. Despite their arrogance and ingratitude, Yahweh works yet another miracle for them, “do not be afraid, stand firm, and see the deliverance that the Lord will accomplish for you today; for the Egyptians whom you see today you shall never see again…” the Pharisees in today’s gospel behaved the same way as the ungrateful Hebrews. They asked for yet another sign from Jesus. He called them an evil and ungrateful generation. The Psalm reminds us that we need to continuously sing the wonders of God in our life: “I will sing to the Lord, glorious his triumph!”
Pesonal Devotional, (Prayer for those looking for the fruit of the womb).
Within the next 7 days fom today 19th – Sunday 25th, let us kindly offer at least one Our Father, One Hail Mary and Glory be… for the intention of couples waiting on God for the fruit of the womb. You can also offer a fast for their Special Intention if you’re disposed. (As you’re praying for others, you’re also praying for yourself) God will richly bless you as you do in Jesus name.
Children are a gift from the LORD, they are real blessing, - Psalm 127:3
Let Us Pray,
Dear Lord, thank you for your forgiveness. Thank you for not abandoning us to our mistakes, but for reaching out instead to bring us home. Help convict me to sin and help me accept your mercy without shame. Thank you for the love you have poured out for me and all of your children. Help me live out of that love today and always. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
- Make a prayer of repentance from the depth of your heart.
- Pray for our hearts to be softened towards one another, so that we can give and receive forgiveness readily within our families, churches and communities and for the success of this program.
Let Us Pray:
O Lord, I am weak and broken, surrounded on all sides by corruption and perversion. Lord have mercy on me: protect me from my enemies who devour me, and guide me in the way of perfection. No matter what happens to me, whether it be an attack or a seduction, may my love for you protect me from falling into sin. May I live a holy life no matter what others do around me – Amen.
Blessing for the Week
When we face attack from people or experience wickedness in their hands just because we belong to God and have been blessed by Him. We only need to look up to God and hold unto him firmly for from him shall our help come.
A fight against someone blessed by God is a fight against God and God will fight for himself and he will always win.
Never be jealous of someone blessed by God or fight them, instead, rejoice with them and identify with them and you will tap from their blessings.
May this new week bring multiple blessings upon you may God keep you safe to enjoy the blessings he has bestowed upon you.
God blesses whom he chooses to bless, just accept it and you will be at peace, do your best my dear friend and the best shall be your portion in Jesus name. Have a blessed New Week.
Tuesday 25th July 2023
Vestment: Red
Today’s Rosary: Sorrowful Mystery
ST JAMES, AP. (FEAST)
Today we celebrate the feast of James, the son of Zebedee and the brother of John the apostle and evangelist. He was present, with Peter and John, at the special miracles worked by the Lord, at his transfiguration and in the garden of Gethsemane. He was the first of the apostles to be put to death (see Acts 12:1-3) around the year 42.
Entrance Antiphon Mt. 4:18.21
As he walked by the Sea of Galilee, Jesus saw James the son of Zebedee and John his brother mending their nets and he called them.
Collect
Almighty ever-living God, who consecrated the first fruits of your Apostles by the blood of Saint James, grant, we pray, that your Church may be strengthened by his confession of faith and constantly sustained by his protection. Through our Lord...
-FIRST READING-
A reading from the second Letter of Saint Paul to the Corinthians (2 Corinthians 4:7-15)
We carry always in the body the death of Jesus.
Brethren: We have this treasure in earthen vessels, to show that the transcendent power belongs to God and not to us. We are afflicted in every way, but not crushed; perplexed, but not driven to despair; persecuted, but not forsaken; struck down, but not destroyed; always carrying in the body the death of Jesus, so that the life of Jesus may also be manifested in our bodies. For while we live we are always being given up to death for Jesus’ sake, so that the life of Jesus may be manifested in our mortal flesh. So death is at work in us, but life in you. Since we have the same spirit of faith as he had who wrote, “I believed, and so I spoke,” we too believe, and so we speak, knowing that he who raised the Lord Jesus will raise us also with Jesus and bring us with you into his presence. For it is all for your sake, so that as grace extends to more and more people it may increase thanksgiving, to the glory of God.
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Ps126:1-2ab.2cd-3.4-5.6(R.sce5)
R. Those who are sowing in tears will sing when they reap.
When the Lord brought back the exiles of Sion,
we thought we were dreaming.
Then was our mouth filled with laughter;
on our tongues, songs of joy. R.
Then the nations themselves said,
What great deeds the Lord worked for them!
What great deeds the Lord worked for us!
Indeed, we were glad. R.
Bring back our exiles,
O Lord, as streams in the south.
Those who are sowing in tears
will sing when they reap. R.
They go out, they go out, full of tears,
bearing seed for the sowing;
they come back, they come back with a song,
bearing their sheaves. R.
ALLELUIA John15:16
Alleluia. I chose you from the world that you should go and bear fruit and that your fruit should abide, says the Lord. Alleluia.
-GOSPEL-
A reading from the holy Gospel according to Matthew (Matthew 20:20-28)
You will drink my chalice.
At that time: The mother of the sons of Zebedee came up to Jesus, with her sons, and kneeling before him she asked him for something. And he said to her, “What do you want?” She said to him, “Command that these two sons of mine may sit, one at your right hand and one at your left, in your kingdom.” But Jesus answered, “You do not know what you are asking. Are you able to drink the chalice that I am to drink?” They said to him, “We are able.” He said to them, “You will drink my chalice, but to sit at my right hand and at my left is not mine to grant, but it is for those for whom it has been prepared by my Father.” And when the ten heard it, they were indignant at the two brothers. But Jesus called them to him and said, “You know that the rulers of the Gentiles lord it over them, and their great men exercise authority over them. It shall not be so among you; but whoever would be great among you must be your servant, and whoever would be first among you must be your slave; even as the Son of man Name not to be served but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.
The Gospel of the Lord.
Today’ Reflection
“You know that the rulers of the Gentiles Lord it over them”.
Why humans seek power? With power comes influence. With influence comes relevance. Just nearly all humans want to remain relevant. It didn’t come surprising to Jesus when the mother of James and john brought her two sons to him in order to occupy seats of power. Jesus uses that opportunity to call the attention of his apostles to the mundane pursuit of power which is not for the purpose of the kingdom. We exercise power at different levels of our existence. We are not to follow the world in the existence of our power.
Personal Devotional
Let us thank the Lord for giving us the grace to complete this prayer section, may his name be praised and glorified. May you O Lord grant the heart’s desire of all those that has participated in this program and may our mother Mary intercede for us Jesus name Amen. Thank you for answering our prayers.
I will praise you, Lord, with all my heart; I will tell of all the wonderful things you have done. I will sings with joy because of you, I will sing praises to you, Almighty God. Psalm 9:1,2
- God remembers those who suffer; he does not forget their cry. Psalm 9:12
-I accept God’s supernatural favour upon myself and family in Jesus name
Let Us Pray
Stay with me, Lord, for it is necessary to have you present so that I do not forget you, you know how easily I abandon you.
Stay with me, Lord, because I am weak, and I need your strength, that I may not fall so often, stay with me, Lord, for you are my life, and without you, I am without fervor.
Stay with me, Lord, for you are my light, and without you, I am in darkness.
Stay with me, Lord, to show me your will.
Stay with me, Lord, for I desire to love you very much, and always be in your company.
Stay with me, Lord, if you wish me to be faithful to you.
Stay with me, Lord, for as poor as my soul is, I want it to be a place of consolation for you, a nest of love. Stay with me, Jesus, for it is getting late and the day is coming to a close, and life passes; death, judgment, eternity approaches. It is necessary to renew my strength, so that I will not stop along the way and for that, I need you. It is getting late and death approaches, I fear the darkness, the temptations, the dryness, the cross, the sorrows. O how I need you, my Jesus, in this night of exile!
I will love you with all my heart while on earth and continue to love you perfectly during all eternity. Amen.
WEDNESDAY 26 July 2023
Weekday 16
Vestment: Green
Today’s Rosary: Glorious Mystery
-FIRST READING-
A reading from the Book of Exodus (Exodus 16:1-5. 9-15)
I will rain bread from heaven for you.
The sons of Israel set out from Elim, and all the congregation of the sons of Israel came to the wilderness of Sin, which is between Elim and Sinai, on the fifteenth day of the second month after they had departed from the land of Egypt. And the whole congregation of the sons of Israel murmured against Moses and Aaron in the wilderness, and said to them, “would that we had died by the hand of the LORD in the land of Egypt, when we sat by the fleshpots and ate bread to the full; for you have brought us out into this wildernesss to kill this whole assembly with hunger.” Then the LORD said to Moses, “Behold, I will rain bread from heaven for you; and the people shall go out and gather a day’s portion every day, that I may test them, whether they will walk in my law or not. On the sixth day, when they prepare what they bring in, it will be twice as much as they gather daily.” And Moses said to Aaron, “Say to the whole congregation of the sons of Israel, ‘Come near before the LORD, for he has heard your murmurings.” And as Aaron spoke to the whole congregation of the sons of Israel, they looked towards the wilderness, and behold, the glory of the LORD appeared in the cloud. And the LORD said to Moses, “I have heard the murmurings of the sons of Israel; say to them, ‘at twilight you shall eat flesh, and in the morning you shall be filled with bread; then you shall know that I am the LORD your God.” In the evening quails came up and covered the camp; and in the morning dew lay around about the camp. And when the dew had gone up, there was on the face of the wilderness a fine, flake-like thing, fine as hoarfrost on the ground. When the sons of Israel saw it, they said to one another, “what is it?” for they did not know what it was. And Moses said to them, “it is the bread which the Lord has given you to eat.
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Ps 78:18-19.23-24.25-26.27-28 (R. 24b)
R. The Lord gave them bread from heaven
In their heart they put God to the test
by demanding the food they craved.
They spoke against God and said:
Can God spread a table in the wilderness? R.
Yet he commanded the clouds above,
And opened the gates of heaven.!
He rained down manna to eat,
And gave them bread from heaven. R.
Man ate the bread of angels.
He sent them abundance of food;
The east wind he stirred up in the heavens,
The south wind he directed by his might., R.
He rained flesh upon them like dust,
Winged fowl like the sands of the sea.
He let it fall in the midst of their camp,
And all around their tents. R.
ALLELUIA
Alleluia. The seed is the word of God, and the sower is Christ; all who find him will abide for ever. Alleluia.
-GOSPEL-
A reading from the holy Gospel according to Matthew (Matthew 13:1-9)
They brought forth grain a hundred fold.
That same day Jesus went out of the house and sat beside the sea. And great crowds gathered about him, so that he got into a boat and sat there; and the whole crowd stood on the beach. And he told them many things in parables, saying: “A sower went out to sow. And as he sowed, some seeds fell along the path, and the birds came and devoured them. Other seeds fell on rocky ground, where they had not much soil, and immediately they sprang up, since they had no depth of soil, but when the sun rose they were scorched; and since they had no root they withered away. Other seeds fell upon thorns, and the thorns grew up and choked them. Other seeds fell on good soil and brought forth grain, some a hundredfold, some sixty, some thirty. He who has ears, let him hear.
The Gospel of the Lord.
Today’s Reflection
No matter how healthy a seed is, if the conditions of the soil are not favourable, it will not make for rich produce. The same goes for the word of God and the human heart. If the word finds no home in us, we can barely bear the fruit. When the heart becomes too materialistic, it will not have the richness that is needed for the word to grow and bear fruit. However, when we ask, the grace of God is always available to turn a cold heart into a warm heart.
Today’s Reflection
“Remember your relative Elizabeth. It is said that she cannot have children, but she herself is now six months pregnant, even though she is very old. For there is nothing that God cannot do Luke 1:36,37
For those facing childlessness in our midst, let us say one Our Father, one Hail Mary and one Glory be…for their intention
-He is the God yesterday, today and forever the blessing of Elizabeth is your portion in the name of Jesus
-I declare that I will bear fruit for my husband and no more miscarriages, in the name of Jesus.
-Open your heart and claim and receive the glory the Lord has bestowed on you
-I receive with thanksgiving in my heart, supernatural opportunities, healings, restoration, and breakthroughs which my God gave to me during these days of fasting and prayers
Let Us Pray
Thank you Lord for answering my prayers, I believe and I trust in you for every provision in my life.
-FIRST READING-
A reading from the Book of Exodus (Exodus 19:1-2.9-11.16-20)
On the third new moon after the people of Israel had gone forth out of the land of Egypt, on that day they came into the wilderness of Sinai. And when they set out from Rephidim and came into the wilderness of Sinai, they encamped in the wilderness; and there Israel encamped before the mountain. And the LORD said to Moses, "Behold, I am coming to you in a thick cloud, that the people may hear when I speak with you, and may also believe you for ever." Then Moses told the words of the people to the LORD. And the LORD said to Moses, "Go to the people and consecrate them today and tomorrow, and let them wash their garments, and be ready by the third day; for on the third day the LORD will come down upon Mount Sinai in the sight of all the people. On the morning of the third day there were thunders and lightning, and a thick cloud upon the mountain, and a very loud trumpet blast, so that all the people who were in the camp trembled. Then Moses brought the people out of the camp to meet God; and they took their stand at the foot of the mountain. And Mount Sinai was wrapped in smoke, because the LORD descended upon it in fire; and the smoke of it went up like the smoke of a kiln, and the whole mountain quaked greatly. And as the sound of the trumpet grew louder and louder, Moses spoke, and God answered him in thunder. And the LORD came down upon Mount Sinai, to the top of the mountain; and the LORD called Moses to the top of the mountain.
The word of the Lord
RESPONSORIAL Psalm 36:6—7ab.8-9.10-11 (R. 10a)
R. With you, O Lord, is the fountain of life.
Your mercy, Lord, reaches to heaven,
your truth to the clouds.
Your justice is like God’s mountains;
like the great deep, your judgements. R.
How precious is your mercy, O God!
The children of men seek shelter
in the shadow of your wings.
They feast on the riches of your house;
you give them drink from the stream of your delight. R.
For with you is the fountain of life,
and in your light we see light.
Maintain your mercy for those who know you,
your saving justice to upright hearts. R.
ALLELUIA Matthew 1 1:25
Alleluia. Blessed are you, Father, Lord of heaven and earth, that you have revealed to little ones the mysteries of the kingdom. Alleluia.
-GOSPEL-
“To you it has been given to know the secrets of the kingdom of heaven, but to them it has not been given.”
A reading from the holy Gospel according to Matthew (Matthew 13: 10-17)
At that time: The disciples came and said to Jesus, “Why do you speak to them in parables?” And he answered them, “To you it has been given to know the secrets of the kingdom of heaven, but to them it has not been given. For to him who has will more be given, and he will have abundance; but from him who has not, even what he has will be taken away. This is why I speak to them in parables, because seeing they do not see, and hearing they do not hear, nor do they understand. With them indeed is fulfilled the prophecy of Isaiah which says: ‘You shall indeed hear but never understand, and you shall indeed see but never perceive. For this people’s heart has grown dull, and their ears are heavy of hearing, and their eyes they have closed, lest they should perceive with their eyes, and hear with their ears, and understand with their heart, and turn for me to heal them. ’ “But blessed are your eyes, for they see, and your ears, for they hear. Truly, I say to you, many prophets and righteous men longed to see what you see, and did not see it, and to hear what you hear, and did not hear it.”
The Gospel of the Lord.
Today's Prayer Points
Merciful Jesus, grant us repentance so that we can escape the trap of the evil one and enjoy new life in Christ in the name of Jesus.
Pray that we would be more docile to the inspirations of the Holy Spirit, the challenges are enormous, both within and without.
Pray that God’s vision for you will continue to be actualized irrespective of all human contentions and demonic manipulations and attacks.
Heavenly Father, we lift up the spiritual temperature of all of us, revive and refine us so that we can be pleasing to you in the name of Jesus.
FRIDAY July 28, 2023
Weekday (16)
Vestment: Green
Today’s Rosary: The Sorrowful Mystery
-FIRST READING-
A reading from the Book of Exodus (Exodus 20: 1-17)
The law was given through Moses (John 1:17)
In those days: God spoke all these words, saying, “I am the Lord your God, who brought you out of the land of Egypt, out of the house of bondage. You shall have no other gods before me. You shall not make for yourself a graven image, or any likeness of anything that is in heaven above, or that is in the earth beneath, or that is in the water under the earth; you shall not bow down to them or serve them; for I the Lord your God am a jealous God, visiting the iniquity of the fathers upon the children to the third and the fourth generation of those who hate me, but showing mercy to thousands of those who love me and keep my commandments. “You shall not take the name of the Lord your God in vain; for the Lord will not hold him guiltless who takes his name in vain. “Remember the sabbath day, to keep it holy. Six days you shall labour, and do all your work; but the seventh day is a sabbath to the Lord your God; in it you shall not do any work, you, or your son, or your daughter, your manservant, or your maidservant, or your cattle, or the sojourner who is within your gates; for in six days the Lord made heaven and earth, the sea, and all that is in them, and rested the seventh day; therefore the Lord blessed the sabbath day and hallowed it. “Honour your father and your mother, that your days may be long in the land which the Lord your God gives you. “You shall not kill.” “You shall not commit adultery.” “You shall not steal.” “You shall not bear false witness against your neighbour.” “You shall not covet your neighbour’s house; you shall not covet your neighbour’s wife, or his manservant, or his maidservant, or his ox, or his donkey, or anything that is your neighbour
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Psalm 19:8.9.10.11 (R. John 6:68c)
R. Lord, you have the words of eternal life.
The law of the Lord is perfect;
It revives the soul.
The decrees of the Lord are steadfast;
they give wisdom to the simple. R.
The precepts of the Lord are right;
they gladden the heart.
The command of the Lord is clear;
it gives light to the eyes. R.
The fear of the Lord is pure,
abiding forever.
The judgements of the Lord are true;
they are, all of them, just. R.
They are more to be desired than gold,
than quantities of gold.
And sweeter are they than honey,
Than honey flowing from the comb. R.
ALLELUIA Luke 8:15
Alleluia. Blessed are those who, hearing the word, hold it fast in an honest and good heart, and bring forth fruit with patience. Alleluia.
-GOSPEL-
A reading from the holy Gospel according to Matthew (Matthew 13: 18-23)
He who hears the word and understands it, bears fruit
At that time: Jesus said to his disciples, “Hear then the parable of the sower. When any one hears the word of the kingdom and does not understand it, the Evil One comes and snatches away what is sown in his heart; this is what was sown along the path. As for what was sown on rocky ground, this is he who hears the word and immediately receives it with joy; yet he has no foot in himself, but endures for a while, and when tribulation or persecution arises on account of the word, immediately he falls away. As for what was sown among thorns, this is he who hears the word, but the cares of the world and the delight in riches choke the word, and it proves unfruitful. As for what was sown on good soil, this is he who hears the word and understands it; he indeed bears fruit, and yields, in one case a hundred fold, in another sixty, and in another thirty.
The Gospel of the Lord.
Today’s Reflection
Worldly cares and selfish ambitions do not allow the word of God to thrive in us because the word demands undivided attention and commitment. In its application. The word needs a certain constancy, diligence and care. We cannot serve both God and mammon. It would seem as though life is a continuous battle between the light and darkness in us. The commandments of the lord are clear on what our choice must be. The precepts of the Lord gladden the heart; therefore, our choice must be no other than God. When God is sought first, everything else is given. When the world is sought first, everything else is lost.
Personal Devotional
“Teach me, Lord, what you want me to do, and I will obey you faithfully; teach me to serve you with complete devotion” Psalm 86:11
-Lord Jesus make me always mindful of your words: “what does it profit a man if he gains the whole world, but suffers the loss of his own soul,” in the name of Jesus Christ. Amen.
-Holy Father be thou, henceforth, my only treasure, make my heart too solicitous for the vain and fleeting things of the earth. Do not allow anything to separate me from you, in the name of Jesus.
-Grant me the grace my Father, to give up all things, to empty myself of all selfishness, so that your love may reign in me in the name of Jesus.
Let Us Pray
O Father, God of mercy and power, grant me the grace to be a source of joy of people around me. May my life bring glory to your holy name at all times. Give me the grace, Holy Father, to avoid sin and all occasions of sin. Make me thirst for holiness of life through the study of your word and practice of generosity to the church and the less privileged. Like the deer thirsts for water, so my soul thirsts for you O Lord.
SATURDAY July 29, 2023
16th Week in Ordinary Time
Vestment: White
Today’s Rosary: The Joyful Mystery
-FIRST READING-
A reading from the Book of Exodus (Exodus 24:3-8)
Behold the blood of the covenant which the Lord has made with you.
In those days: Moses came and told the people all the words of the Lord and all the ordinances; and all the people answered with one voice, and said, “All the words which the Lord has spoken we will do.” And Moses wrote all the words of the Lord. And he rose early in the morning, and built an altar at the foot of the mountain, and twelve pillars, according to the twelve tribes of Israel. And he sent young men of the sons of Israel, who offered burnt offerings and sacrificed peace offerings of oxen to the Lord. And Moses took half of the blood and put it in basins, and half of the blood he threw against the altar. Then he took the book of the covenant, and read it in the hearing of the people; and they said, “All that the Lord has spoken we will do, and we will be obedient.” And Moses took the blood and threw it up on the people, and said, “Behold the blood of the covenant which the Lord has made with you in accordance with all these words.
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Psalm 50: 1-2.5-6.14-15 (R.14a)
R. Give your praise as a sacrifice to God.
The God of gods, the Lord,
has spoken and summoned the earth,
from the rising of the sun to its setting.
Out of Sion, the perfection of beauty,
God is shining forth. R.
Gather my holy ones to me,
who made covenant with me by sacrifice.
The heavens proclaim his justice,
for he, God, is the judge. R.
Give your praise as a sacrifice to God,
and fulfil your vows to the Most High.
Then call on me in the day of distress.
I will deliver you and you shall honour me. R.
ALLELUIA James 1:21bc
Alleluia. Receive with meekness the implanted word, which is able to save your souls. Alleluia.
-GOSPEL-
A reading from the holy Gospel according to Matthew (Matthew 13:24-30)
Let both grow together until the harvest.
At that time: Another parable Jesus put before the crowds, saying, “The kingdom of heaven may be compared to a man who sowed good seed in his field; but while men were sleeping, his enemy came and sowed weeds among the wheat, and went away. So when the plants came up and bore grain, then the weeds appeared also. And the servants of the householder came and said to him, ‘Sir, did you not sow good seed in your field? How then has it weeds?’ “He said to them, ‘An enemy has done this.’ “The servants said to him, ‘Then do you want us to go and gather them?’ “But he said, ‘No; lest in gathering the weeds you root up the wheat along with them. Let both grow together until the harvest; and at harvest time I will tell the reapers, Gather the weeds first and bind them in bundles to be burned, but gather the wheat into my barn.
The Gospel of the Lord.
Today’s Reflection
The patience of God is unmatched. In the Book of Ezekiel 18:23, he says; ‘Do I derive pleasure in the death of a wicked person and not rather that he should turn away from evil and live?’ he is aware of the operations of the enemy in the lives of some of his children, yet the offers them time to return to him. How then do we end up so impatient with one another? How quick we are to pass harsh judgements on other and condemn them! How quick we are to expect instant results when we pray! How quick we are to seek instant pleasure when we fall in love! We demand quick solutions to problems, showing our want of patience.
Personal Devotional:
“Help to carry one another’s burdens, and in this way you will obey the law of Christ. Galatians 6:2
Give me the will-power to stand for you always.
O Lord, endear my spirit with the Joy of serving you always my Lord and my God.
Pray for all children of God who have failed in their vow of holiness that they will return to the Lord and renew their vows of holiness.
Let Us Pray
I love you, Jesus, my Love, above all things. I repent with my whole heart for having offended you. Never permit me to separate myself from you again. Grant that I may love you always; and then do with me as you will in Jesus name Amen.
Sunday July 30, 2023
17th Sunday in Ordinary Time
Vestment: Green
Today’s Rosary: The Glorious Mystery
Theme of the Sunday: The Courage to Sell Off Everything. The first reading and the gospel are joined by the theme of the search for treasure. For King Solomon the greatest treasure was the wisdom to enable him to govern his people well. For us the treasure is the kingdom of God. Who ever discovers it is determined to change their whole life to have it. The second reading tells us that God directs everything so that we may have the courage to make the right choice when challenging options are put before us.
Entrance Antiphon cf.Ps67:6-7.36
God is in his holy place, God who unites those who dwell in his house; he himself gives might and strength to his people.
Collect
O God, protector of those who hope in you, without whom nothing has firm foundation, nothing is holy, bestow in abundance your mercy upon us and grant that, with you as our ruler and guide, we may use the good things that pass in such a way as to hold fast even now to those that ever endure. Through our Lord...
-FIRST READING-
“You have asked for yourself understanding.”
A reading from the first Book of Kings (1 Kings 3:5.7-12)
In those days: At Gibeon the Lord appeared to Solomon in a dream by night; and God said, “Ask what I shall give you.” And Solomon said, “O Lord my God, you have made your servant king in place of David my father, although I am but a little child; I do not know how to go out or come in. And your servant is in the midst of your people whom you have chosen, a great people that cannot be numbered or counted for multitude. Give your servant therefore a nunder standing mind to govern your people, that I may discern between good and evil; for who is able to govern this great people of yours?” It pleased the Lord that Solomon had asked this. And God said to him, “Because you have asked this, and have not asked for yourself long life or riches or the life of your enemies, but have asked for yourself understanding to discern what is right, behold, I now do according to your word. Behold, I give you a wise and discerning mind, so that none like you has been before you and none like you shall arise after you.”
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Ps119:57 and 72.76-77.127-128. 129-130 (R. 97a)
R/. O Lord, how I love your law.
I have said, “O Lord, my portion
is to obey your words.”
The law from your mouth means more to me
than large quantities of silver and gold. R.
Let your merciful love console me
by your promise to your servant.
Show me compassion, that I may live,
for your law is my delight. R.
That is why I love your commands
more than finest gold,
why I rule my life by your precepts,
and hate false ways. R.
Your decrees are wonderful indeed;
therefore my soul obeys them.
The unfolding of your word gives light,
and understanding to the simple. R.
-SECOND READING-
“He predestined us to be conformed to the image of his Son.”
A reading from the Letter of Saint Paul to the Romans (Romans.8:28-30
Brethren: We know that in everything God works for good with those who love him, who are called according to his purpose. For those whom he foreknew he also predestined to be conformed to the image of his Son, in order that he might be the first—born among many brethren. And those whom he predestined he also called; and those whom he called he also justified; and those whom he justified he also glorified.
The word of the Lord.
ALLELUIA Matthew11:25
Alleluia. Blessed are you, Father, Lord of heaven and earth, that you have revealed to little ones the mysteries of the kingdom. Alleluia.
-GOSPEL-
“He sells all that he has, and buys the field.”
A reading from the holy Gospel according to Matthew (Matthew 13:44-52)
* Jesus said to the crowds, “The kingdom of heaven is like treasure hidden in a field, which a man found and covered up; then in his joy he goes and sells all that he has and buys that field. Again, the kingdom of heaven is like a merchant in search of fine pearls, who, on finding one pearl of great value, went and sold all that he had and bought it. *
“Again, the kingdom of heaven is like a net which was thrown into the sea and gathered fish of every kind; when it was full, men drew it ashore and sat down and sorted the good into vessels but threw away the bad. So it will be at the close of the age. The angels will come out and separate the evil from the righteous, and throw them into the furnace of fire, where there will be weeping and quashing of teeth. “Have you understood all this?” They said to him, “Yes.” And he said to them, “Therefore every scribe who has been trained for the kingdom of heaven is like a householder who brings out of his treasure what is new and what is old.”
* The Gospel of the Lord.*
Shorter form: Matthew 13:44-46. Read between *
PRAYERS OF THE FAITHFUL
Faith is a priceless treasure.
PRIEST: My brothers and sisters, we share a priceless treasure, which is our faith. With confidence, we ask God our Father for all the graces to live out that faith in today’s world.
READER:
For the Church, (pause) may she continue to keep before our minds the faith which she has been commissioned to proclaim, and may she encourage all her members to model their lives on Jesus Christ. (pause) In your wisdom, Lord; deepen our faith we pray Oh Lord.
For those who make judgments affecting our society, (pause) may they treasure that special wisdom from God on how to discern between good and evil, and so reflect God’s plan for the human race. (pause) In your wisdom, Lord; deepen our faith we pray Oh Lord.
For writers and poets who suffer for their Christian faith, (pause) may they continue to share their spiritual insights with others, and encourage the free world by their gallant and heroic faith, which refuses to be silenced by threats or imprisonment. (pause) In your wisdom, Lord; deepen our faith we pray Oh Lord.
For a deeper faith within the community, (pause) in all the changes which life in the Church brings, may we have a deep and strong faith, which know how to renew the hallowed, and hallow the new practices of our religion. (pause) In your wisdom, Lord; deepen our faith we pray Oh Lord.
We make our prayer in silence to God our Father, trusting in his infinite wisdom and love.
PRIEST: Father, we beg of your mercy the gift of wisdom to know your will and the grace to fulfill it. Through Christ our Lord. Amen.
Today’s Reflection
In a dream, God appeared to King Solomon and told him to ask for whatever he sought, assuring him that it would be granted him. Curiously king Solomon didn’t ask for anything that is worldly or material but rather for the wisdom of true leadership over his people. Of course, God granted his prayers and gave him even more than he had even bargained for because he had prayed in accordance with God’s will. This shows that God answers all prayers that are well intentioned, prayers that come from a humble, simple and contrite heart. That is why St Paul assures the Romans that “in everything, God works for the good of those who love him.” In the Gospel, Jesus compares the kingdom to a priceless treasure that far exceeds the value of everything that one can possess in life; it is also like a household that accommodates the bad, the good and the ugly. Hence, the values of the kingdom of God transcends times, circumstances and the ever evolving human condition.
Personal Devotional
“Teach me, Lord, what you want me to do, and I will obey you faithfully; teach me to serve you with complete devotion” Psalm 86:11
- Lord Jesus make me always mindful of your words: “what does it profit a man if he gains the whole world, but suffers the loss of his own soul,” in the name of Jesus Christ. Amen.
- Holy Father be thou, henceforth, my only treasure, make my heart too solicitous for the vain and fleeting things of the earth. Do not allow anything to separate me from you, in the name of Jesus.
- Grant me the grace my Father, to give up all things, to empty myself of all selfishness, so that your love may reign in me in the name of Jesus.
Let Us Pray
O Father, God of mercy and power, grant me the grace to be a source of joy of people around me. May my life bring glory to your holy name at all times. Give me the grace, Holy Father, to avoid sin and all occasions of sin. Make me thirst for holiness of life through the study of your word and practice of generosity to the church and the less privileged. Like the deer thirsts for water, so my soul thirsts for you O Lord.
Monday July 31, 2023
Weekday (17)
Vestment: White
Today’s Rosary: The Joyful Mystery
-FIRST READING-
A reading from the Book of Exodus (Exodus 32:15-24. 30-34)
This people have sinned a great sin; they have made for themselves gods of gold.
In those days: Moses turned, and went down from the mountain with the two tables of the covenant in his hands, tables that were written on both sides; on the one side and on the other were they written. And the tables were the work of God, and the writing was the writing of God, graven upon the tables. When Joshua heard the noise of the people as they shouted, he said to Moses, “there is a noise of war in the camp.” But he said, “it is not the sound of shouting for victory, or the sound of the cry of defeat, but the sound of singing that I hear.” And as soon as he came near the camp and saw the calf and the dancing, Moses’ anger burnt hot and he threw the tables out of his hands and broke them at the foot of the mountain. And he took the calf which they had made, and burnt it with fire, and ground it to powder, and scattered it upon the water, and made the sons of Israel drink it. And Moses said to Aaron, “what did this people do to you that you have brought a great sin upon them?” and Aaron said, “Let not the anger of my lord burn hot; you know the people, that they are set on evil. For they said to me, ‘make us gods, who shall go before us; as for this Moses, the man who brought us up out of the land of Egypt, we do not know what has become of him.’ And I said to them, ‘let any who have gold take off; so they gave it to me, and I threw it into the fire, and there came out calf.” The next day Moses said to the people, “you have sinned a great sin. And now I will go up to the Lord; perhaps I can make atonement for your sin.” So Moses returned to the Lord and said, “Alas, this people have sinned a great sin; they have made for themselves gods of gold. But now, if you will forgive their sin-and if not, blot me, I beg you, out of your book which you have written.” But the Lord said to Moses, “whoever has sinned against me, him will I blot out of my book. But now go, lead the people to the place of which I have spoken to you; behold, my angel shall go before you. Nevertheless, in the day when I visit, I will visit their sin upon them.
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Ps106:19-20.21-22.23 (R1b)
R. O give thanks to the Lord for he is good.
Or. Alleluia.
They fashioned a calf at Horeb,
And worshipped an image of metal,
They exchange their glory
For the image of a bull that eats grass. R
They forgot the God who was their saviour,
Who had done such great things in Egypt,
Such wonders in the land of Ham,
Such marvels at the Red Sea. R.
For this he said he would destroy them,
But Moses, the man he had chosen,
Stood in the breach before him,
To turn back his anger from destruction. R.
ALLELUIA James 1:18
Alleluia. Of his own will he brought us forth by the word of truth that we should be kind of first fruits of his. Alleluia.
-GOSPEL-
A reading from the holy Gospel according to Matthew (Matthew 13:31-35)
A grain of mustard seed becomes a tree, so that the birds of the air make nests in its branches.
At that time: Another parable Jesus put before the crowds, saying, “The kingdom of heaven is like a grain of mustard seed which a man took and sowed in his field; it is the smallest of all seeds, but when it has grown it is the greatest of shrubs and becomes a tree, so that the birds of the air come and make nests in its branches.” He told them another parable. “The kingdom of heaven is like leaven which a woman took and hid in three measures of meal, till it was all leavened.” All this Jesus said to the crowds in parables; indeed he said nothing to them without a parable. This was to fulfil what was spoken by the prophet: I will open my mouth in parables, I will utter what has been hidden since the foundation of the world.
The Gospel of the Lord.
Today’s Reflection
Faith is a gift that God bestows on human to enable us to understand in depth the ordinary events of life and the divine messages they carry. However, faith in the face of a great loss is almost superhuman. Martha has just lost a brother. Just like everyone else around her, she is grieving. But she believes that all powers have been given to Christ by God and whatever he says comes to pass. That faith sees her brother brought back to life. The toll that an unfortunate situation takes on us is determined largely by our faith in God. Faith in God turns unimaginable things to imaginable ones.
Personal Devotional
‘Protect me, O God; I trust in you for safety. I say to the Lord, ‘You are my Lord; all the good things I have come from you.” Psalm 16:1,2
Lord, God of love remember all whose businesses are facing challenges. Intervene and grant new life to them.
Lord, I praise you as my perpetual benefactor and I call upon you as my merciful defender. Grant me total peace and joy.
Let Us Pay
O Lord, I am weak and broken, surrounded on all sides by corruption and perversion. Lord have mercy on me: protect me from my enemies who devour me, and guide me in the way of perfection. No matter what happens to me, whether it be an attack or a seduction, may my love for you protect me from falling into sin. May I live a holy life no matter what others do around me – Amen.
TUESDAY August 1st, 2023
Weekday (17)
Vestment: White
Today’s Rosary: The Sorrowful Mystery
-FIRST READING-
The Lord spoke to Moses face to face.
A reading from the Book of Exodus (Exodus 33:7-11:34:5b-9.28)
In those days: Moses used to take the tent and pitch it outside the camp, far off from the camp; and he called it the tent of meeting. And every one who sought the Lord would go out to the tent of meeting, which was outside the camp. Whenever Moses went out to the tent, all the people rose up, and every man stood at his tent door, and looked after Moses, until he had gone into the tent. When Moses entered the tent, the pillar of cloud would descend and stand at the door of the tent, and the Lord would speak with Moses. And when all the people saw the pillar of cloud standing at the door of the tent, all the people would rise up and worship, every man at his tent door. Thus the Lord used to speak to Moses face to face, as a man speaks to his friend. When Moses turned again into the camp, his servant Joshua the son of Nun, a young man, did not depart from the tent. And Moses proclaimed the name of the Lord. The Lord passed before him, and proclaimed, “The Lord, the Lord, a God merciful and gracious, slow to anger, and abounding in mercy and faithfulness, keeping merciful love for thousands, forgiving iniquity and transgression and sin, but who will by no means clear the guilty, visiting the iniquity of the fathers upon the children and the children’s children, to the third and the fourth generation.” And Moses made haste to bow his head towards the earth, and worshipped. And he said, “If now I have found favour in your sight, O Lord, let the Lord, I beg you, go in the midst of us, although it is a stiff-necked people; and pardon our iniquity and our sin, and take us for your inheritance.” And he was there with the Lord forty days and forty nights; he neither ate bread nor drank water. And he wrote upon the tables the words of the covenant, the ten commandments.
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Psalm 103:6-7.8-9.10-11.12-13 (R. 8a)
R. The Lord is compassionate and gracious.
The Lord does just deeds,
Gives full justice to all who are oppressed.
He made known his ways to Moses,
And his deeds to the children of Israel. R.
The Lord is compassionate and gracious,
slow to anger and rich in mercy.
He will not always find fault;
Nor persist in his anger forever. R.
He does not treat us according to our sins,
nor repay us according to our faults.
For as the heavens are high above the earth,
so strong his mercy for those who fear him. R.
As far as the east is from the west,
So far from us does he remove our transgressions.
As a father has compassion on his children,
The Lord’s compassion is on those who fear him. R.
ALLELUIA
Alleluia. The seed is the word of God, and the sower is Christ; all who find him will abide forever. Alleluia.
-GOSPEL-
A reading from the holy Gospel according to Matthew (Matthew 13:36-43)
Just as the weeds are gathered and burnt with fire, so it will be at the close of the age.
At that time: Jesus left the crowds and went into the house. And his disciples came to him, saying, “Explain to us the parable of the weeds of the field.” He answered, “He who sows the good seed is the Son of man; the field is the world, and the good seed means the sons of the kingdom; the weeds are the sons of the evil one, and the enemy who sowed them is the devil; the harvest is the close of the age, and the reapers are angels. Just as the weeds are gathered and burnt with fire, so will it be at the close of the age. The Son of man will send his angels, and they will gather out of his kingdom all causes of sin and all evil doers, and throw them into the furnace of fire, where there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth. Then the righteous will shine like the sun in the kingdom of their Father. He who has ears, let him hear.
The Gospel of the Lord.
Today’s Reflection
The kingdom of God is at hand. The message of the coming of the kingdom of God bears some sense of urgency. But Jesus never forces anyone to accept the message. He speaks the message and allows it to take root in people, each according to the size of his/her faith. Thus, at the end of the message, he says, ‘Whoever has ears, let them hear’. God created us freely and bestows on us freedom that he doesn’t tamper with. What this means is that we will be judged according to the law of freedom. In a world that is filled with so much noise, are we able to hear the message?
Personal Devotional
Begin by making a redeemable vow to God. Do it with thanksgiving in your heart. Praise and worship him whole-heartedly.
Father, forgive me, in any way or in any form I may have brought barrenness upon my life and marriage, and heal me, in the name of Jesus.
Eternal God, I come before you today to receive the power to be fruitful in the name of Jesus.
Let Us Pray
I thank you father because you are not man that you should lie, neither a son of man that you should change your mind. LORD, I believe you will fulfill every word you have spoken concerning my life in the name of Jesus.
WEDNESDAY August 2nd, 2023
Weekday (17)
Vestment: Green
Today’s Rosary: The Glorious Mystery
-FIRST READING-
A reading from the Book of Exodus (Exodus 34:29-35)
Seeing the skin of Moses face, they were afraid to come near him.
When Moses came down from Mount Sinai, with the two tables of the covenant in his hand as he came down from the mountain Moses did not know that the skin of his face shone because he had been talking with God. And when Aaron and all the sons of Israel saw Moses, behold, the skin of his face shone, and they were afraid to come near him. But Moses called to them; and Aaron and all the leaders of the congregation returned to him, and Moses talked with them. And afterward all the sons of Israel came near, and he gave them in commandment all that the Lord had spoken with him in Mount Sinai. And when Moses had finished speaking with them, he put a veil on his face; but whenever Moses went in before the Lord to speak with him, he took the veil off, until he came out; and when he came out, and told the sons of Israel what he was commanded, the sons of Israel saw the face of Moses, that the skin of Moses face shone; and Moses would put the veil upon his face again, until he went in to speak with him.
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Psalm 99:5.6.7.9 (R. 9c)
R. You are holy, O Lord our God.
Exalt the Lord our God;
bow down before his footstool.
Holy is he! R.
Among his priests were Aaron and Moses;
Among those who invoked his name was Samuel.
They cried out to the Lord and he answered. R.
To them he spoke in the pillar of cloud.
They obeyed his decrees and the statutes
Which he had given them. R.
Exalt the Lord our God;
bow down before his holy mountain,
for the Lord our God is holy. R.
ALLELUIA John 15:15b
Alleluia. I have called you friends, says the Lord, for all that I have heard from my Father I have made known to you. Alleluia.
-GOSPEL-
A reading from the holy Gospel according to Matthew (Matthew 13:44-46)
He sells all that he has and buys that field.
At that time: Jesus said to the crowds, “The kingdom of heaven is like treasure hidden in a field, which a man found and covered up; then in his joy he goes and sells all that he has and buys that field. “Again, the kingdom of heaven is like a merchant in search of fine pearls, who, on finding one pearl of great value, went and sold all that he had and bought it.
The Gospel of the Lord
Today’s Reflection
We are on a constant journey in life towards wholeness. This search takes us each to different walks of life where we hope to find fulfillment. When we find fulfillment of life, our joys knows no bounds. That becomes, for each, his treasure. But greater than any earthly treasure is the fulfillment that comes with reaching heaven. The ultimate desire that we share as humans is in the reason for our creation; to be happy with God after our lifetime on earth. Some of our great men and women of faith, like Ignatius, found that treasure of the kingdom of heaven. They held on to it their last breath. Why not we?
If God causes you to suffer much, it is a sign that He has great designs for you, and that He certainly intends to make you a saint.
Few souls understand what God would accomplish in them if they were to abandon themselves unreservedly to Him and if they were to allow His grace to mold them accordingly.
Lord, teach me to be generous.
Teach me to serve you as you deserve;
to give and not to count the cost,
to fight and not to heed the wounds,
to toil and not to seek for rest,
to labor and not to ask for reward,
save that of knowing that I do your will.
It is not hard to obey when we love the one whom we obey.
THURSDAY 3 August 2023
Weekday 17
Vestment: White
Today’s Rosary: Luminous Mstery
-FIRST READING-
A reading from the Book of Exodus (Exodus 40: 16-21.34-35)
“The cloud covered the tent of meeting, and the glory of the Lord filled the tabernacle.”
In those days: According to all that the Lord commanded him, so Moses did. And in the first month in the second year, on the first day of the month, the tabernacle was erected. Moses erected the tabernacle; he laid its bases, and set up its frames, and put in its poles, and raised up its pillars; and he spread the tent over the tabernacle, and put the covering of the tent over it, as the Lord had commanded Moses. And he took the covenant and put it into the ark, and put the poles on the ark, and set the mercy seat above on the ark; and he brought the ark into the tabernacle, and set up the veil of the screen, and screened the ark of the covenant; as the Lord had commanded Moses. Then the cloud covered the tent of meeting, and the glory of the Lord filled the tabernacle. And Moses was not able to enter the tent of meeting, because the cloud abode upon it, and the glory of the Lord filled the tabernacle. Throughout all their journeys, whenever the cloud was taken up from over the tabernacle, the sons of Israel would go onward; but if the cloud was not taken up, then they did not go onward till the day that it was taken up. For throughout all their journeys the cloud of the Lord was upon the tabernacle by day, and fire was in it by night, in the sight of all the house of Israel.
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Psalm 84:2.3.4-5a and 7a. 10 (R. 1)
R. How lovely is your dwelling place, O Lord of hosts!
My soul is longing and yearning
for the courts of the Lord.
My heart and my flesh cry out
to the living God. R.
Even the sparrow finds a home,
and the swallow a nest for herself
in which she sets her young, at your altars,
O Lord of hosts, my king and my God. R.
Blessed are they who dwell in your house,
forever singing your praise.
Blessed is the man whose strength is in you.
They walk with ever-growing strength. R.
One day within your courts
is better than a thousand elsewhere.
The threshold of the house of God
I prefer to the dwellings of the wicked. R.
ALLELUIA Acts 15:14b
Alleluia. Open our hearts, O Lord, that we may give heed to the words of your Son. Alleluia.
-GOSPEL-
A reading from the holy Gospel according to Matthew (Matthew 13:47-53)
“They sorted the good into vessels but threw away the bad.”
At that time: Jesus said to the crowds, “Again, the kingdom of heaven is like a net which was thrown into the sea and gathered fish of every kind; when it was full, men drew it ashore and sat down and sorted the good into vessels but threw away the bad. So it will be at the close of the age. The angels will come out and separate the evil from the righteous, and throw them into the furnace of fire, where there will be weeping and quashing of teeth. “Have you understood all this?” They said to him, “Yes.” And he said to them, “Therefore every scribe who has been trained for the kingdom of heaven is like a householder who brings out of his treasure what is new and what is old.” And when Jesus had finished these parables, he went away from there.
The Gospel of the Lord.
Today's Saint and Quote
St Alphonsus Ligouri – August 1st
Your God is ever beside you — indeed, He is even within you.
To sing is to pray twice.
Today's Reflection
Much has been spoken about the attitude of some Catholics who come for Mass: some late, some unprepared, some in indecent dress and some busying themselves with other activities. God told Moses – to tell the people to prepare themselves for two days, washing their clothing and get themselves ready for the third day, because he will descend on Mount Sinai. How I wish that such attitudes of preparedness would be present at every Eucharist, so that we see the signs of God’s presence. We wash not just our clothes but we cleanse our hearts so that God will come and dwell in our hearts.
Friday 4 August 2023
Weekday 17
Vestment: Green
Today’s Rosary: Sorrowful Mystery
-FIRST READING-
A reading from the Book of Leviticus (Lev. 23:1.4-11.15-16.27.34b-37)
These are the feasts of the Lord, which you shall proclaim as times of holy convocation.
The Lord said to Moses, “These are the appointed feasts of the Lord, the holy convocations, which you shall proclaim at the time appointed for them. In the first month, on the fourteenth day of the month in the evening, is the Lord’s Passover. And on the fifteenth day of the same month is the feast of unleavened bread to the Lord; seven days you shall eat unleavened bread. On the first day you shall have a holy convocation; you shall do no laborious work. But you shall present an offering by fire to the Lord seven days; on the seventh day is a holy convocation; you shall do no laborious work. And the Lord said to Moses, “say to the sons of Israel, when you come into the land which I give you and reap its harvest, you shall bring the sheaf of the first fruits of your harvest to the priest; and he shall wave the sheaf before the Lord, that you may find acceptance; on the day after the Sabbath the priest shall wave it. And you shall count from the day after the Sabbath, from the day that you brought the sheaf of the wave offering; seven full weeks shall they be, counting fifty days to the day after the seventh Sabbath; then you shall present a cereal offering of new grain to the Lord. On the tenth day of this seventh month is the day of atonement; it shall be for you a time of holy convocation, and you shall afflict yourselves and present an offering by fire to the Lord. On the fifteenth day of this seventh month and for seven days is the feast of booths to the Lord. On the first day shall be a holy convocation; you shall do no laborious work. Seven days you shall present offerings by fire to the Lord; on the eight day you shall hold a holy convocation and present an offering by fire to the Lord, it is a solemn assembly; you shall do no laborious work. These are the appointed feasts of the Lord, which you shall proclaim as times of holy convocation, for presenting to the Lord offerings by fire, burnt offerings and cereal offerings, sacrifices and drink offerings, each on its proper day.
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Psalm 81:3-4.5-6ab.110-11ab (R.2a)
R. Sing joyfully to God our strength.
Raise a song and sound the timbrel,
the sweet-sounding harp and the lute:
blow the trumpet at the new moon,
when the moon is full, on our feast. R.
For this is a statute in Israel,
A command of the God of Jacob.
He made it a decree for Joseph,
when he went out from the land of Egypt. R.
Let there be no strange god among you,
nor shall you worship a foreign god.
I am the Lord your God,
Who brought you up from the land of Egypt. R.
ALLELUIA 1 Peter l:25
Alleluia. The word of the Lord abides forever; that word is the good news which was preached to you. Alleluia.
-GOSPEL-
A reading from the holy Gospel according to Matthew (Matthew 13:54-58)
Is not this the carpenter’s son? Where then did this man get all this?
At that time: Coming to his own country, Jesus taught them in their synagogue, so that they were astonished, and said, “Where did this man get this wisdom and these, mighty works? Is not this the carpenter’s son? Is not his mother called Mary? And are not his brethren James and Joseph and Simon and Judas? And are not all his sisters with us? Where then did this man get all this?” And they took offence at him. But Jesus said to them, “A prophet is not without honour except in his own country and in his own house.” And he did not do many mighty works there, because of their unbelief.
The Gospel of the Lord.
Today's Reflection
In the first reading we are given the Ten Commandments, which tells us mostly what we shouldn’t do. Phrases like “Thou shalt not” cut across them, leaving out the “Thou shalt”. However, in the Ten Commandments, what we are told not to do is also indirectly telling us what we should do. What is NOT said can be as important as what is said. What God gave us in the Ten Commandments is not to restrict us, but to protect us and let us know what is good for us. When we hear and understand God’s commandments, we will hear the voice of God behind them. However, we must not be content with “Thou shalt not” it must also lead us to “Thou shalt”.
SATURDAY 5 August 2023
Week 17
Vestment: Green
Today’s Rosary: Joyful Mystery
B. V. M. on Saturday
-FIRST READING-
A reading from the Book of Leviticus (Leviticus 25:l.8-17)
In this year of jubilee each of you shall return to his property.
The Lord said to Moses on Mount Sinai, You shall count seven weeks of years, seven times seven years, so that the time of the seven weeks of years shall be to you forty-nine years. Then you shall send abroad the loud trumpet on the tenth day of the seventh month; on the day of atonement you shall send abroad the trumpet throughout all your land. And you shall hallow the fiftieth year, and proclaim liberty throughout the land to all its inhabitants; it shall be a jubilee for you, when each of you shall return to his property and each of you shall return to his family. A jubilee shall that fiftieth year be to you; in it you shall neither sow, nor reap what grows of itself, nor gather the grapes from the undressed vines. For it is a jubilee; it shall be holy to you; you shall eat what it yields out of the field. “In this year of jubilee each of you shall return to his property. And if you sell to your neighbour or buy from your neighbour, you shall not wrong one another. According to the number of years after the jubilee, you shall buy from your neighbour, and according to the number of years of crops he shall sell to you. If the years are many you shall increase the price, and if the years are few you shall diminish the price, for it is the number of the crops that he is selling to you. You shall not wrong one another, but you shall fear your God; for I am the Lord your God.”
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Psalm67:2-3.5.7-8 (R. 4)
R. Let the peoples praise you, O God; let all the peoples praise you
O God, be gracious and bless us
And let your face shed its light upon us.
So will your ways be known upon earth
And all nations learn your salvation. R.
Let the nations be glad and shout for joy,
With uprightness you rule the peoples;
you guide the nations on earth. R.
The earth has yielded its fruit
for God, our God, has blessed us.
May God still give us his blessing
that all the ends of the earth may revere him. R
ALLELUIA Matthew 5:10
Alleluia. Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Alleluia.
-GOSPEL-
A reading from the holy Gospel according to Matthew (Matthew 14:1-12)
Herod sent and had John beheaded; his disciples went and told Jesus.
At that time, Herod the tetrarch heard about the fame of Jesus; and he said to his servants, “This is John the Baptist, he has been raised from the dead; that is why these powers are at work in him.” For Herod had seized John and bound him and put him in prison, for the sake of Herodias, his brother Philip’s wife; because John said to him, “It is not lawful for you to have her.” And though he wanted to put him to death, he feared the people, because they held him to be a prophet. But when Herod’s birthday came, the daughter of Herodias danced before the company, and pleased Herod, so that he promised with an oath to give her whatever she might ask. Prompted by her mother, she said, “Give me the head of John the Baptist here on a platter.” And the king was sorry; but because of his oaths and his guests he commanded it to be given; he sent and had John beheaded in the prison, and his head was brought on a platter and given to the girl, and she brought it to her mother. And his disciples came and took the body and buried it; and they went and told Jesus.
The Gospel of the Lord.
Today's Reflection
In the Gospel we see how many people are affected by just one true sentence of john the Baptist; it is against the law for you to have your brother’s wife. That sparks off violent reactions in Herod, Herodias and then her daughter. A holy man gets executed all because some people care more about their reputation and the opinion of others than gods law. When we live out the Christian values of love, patience, humility etc. and get slapped in the face, we may wonder if it is worth it. But let us remember that when we do good, the benefactors are not just the others. We ourselves begin to realize our Christian identity and see the power of God’s goodness and love happening in the lives of others.
Sunday August 6, 2023
Weekday (18)
Vestment: White
Today’s Rosary: The Glorious Mystery
THE TRANSFIGURATION OF THE LORD (Feast)
Today we remember the revelation of Christ as the beloved Son of the Father, the one we are called to listen to. This special moment on the mountain is meant to give the three chosen disciples, Peter, James and John, strength and courage and to prepare them for the agony in the garden when they will be chosen again to stay close to the Lord.
Theme of the Feast: Jesus Reveals His Face. Jesus speaks of himself as the “son of man.” He used a generic expression that simply means “man.” He used this expression to avoid misunderstandings that other titles, say, king or messiah, might have caused. He used the term also to refer to the vision in the book of Daniel in the first reading. The distance between the kingdom of this world and the kingdom of God can be compared to the distance between the instincts of wild beasts and the feelings of a heart of man. Jesus begins the new kingdom of God. The Gospel brings out the surprising way chosen by God to establish his kingdom. It was not going to be a kingdom founded on power— as the kingdoms before him—but a kingdom founded on self-giving and love. If we look at what is happening all around us, we can easily be discouraged and might even conclude that the Kingdom of God will never be established in this world. We see that even after two thousand years “the beasts” seem to be winning. This difficulty has been raised since the first century—as we read in the second reading. The reply—says Peter—is to be sought in the “lamp shining in the dark place”: the word of God entrusted to us.
Entrance Antiphon Cf. Mt17:5
In a resplendent cloud the Holy Spirit appeared. The Father’s voice was heard: This is my beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased. Listen to him.
Collect
O God, who in the glorious Transfiguration of your Only Begotten Son confirmed the mysteries of faith by the witness of the Fathers and wonderfully prefigured our full adoption to sonship, grant, we pray, to your servants, that, listening to the voice of your beloved Son, we may merit to become coheirs with him. Who lives and reigns with you. ..
-FIRST READING-
“His clothing was as white as snow.
A reading from the Book of the Prophet Daniel (Daniel 7:9-10.13-14)
As I looked, thrones were placed and one that was ancient of days took his seat; his clothing was white as snow, and the hair of his head like pure wool; his throne was fiery flames, its wheels were burning fire. A stream of fire issued and came forth from before him; a thousand thousands served him, and ten thousand times ten thousand stood before him; the court sat in judgement, and the books were opened. I saw in the night visions, and behold, with the clouds of heaven there came one like a son of man, and he came to the Ancient of Days and was presented before him. And to him was given dominion and glory and kingdom, that all peoples, nations, and languages should serve him; his dominion is an everlasting dominion, which shall not pass away, and his kingdom one that shall not be destroyed.
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Psalm 97: 1-2..5-6.9(R.cf.1a.9a)
R/. The Lord is king, the most high above all the earth.
The Lord is king, let earth rejoice;
let the many islands be glad.
Cloud and darkness surround him;
Justice and right are the foundation of his throne. R.
The mountains melt like wax
Before the face of the Lord,
Before the face of the Lord of all the earth.
The skies proclaim his justice;
all peoples see his glory. R.
For you indeed are the Lord
most high above all the earth,
exalted far above all gods. R.
-SECOND READING-
“We heard this voice borne from heaven.”
A reading from the second Letter of Saint Peter (2 Peter1:16-19)
Beloved: We did not follow cleverly devised myths when we made known to you the power and coming of our Lord Jesus Christ, but we were eye witnesses of his majesty. For when he received honour and glory from God the Father and the voice was borne to him by the Majestic Glory, “This is my beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased,” we heard this voice borne from heaven, for we were with him on the holy mountain. And we have the prophetic word made more sure. You will do well to pay attention to this as to a lamp shining in a dark place, until the day dawns and the morning star rises in your hearts.
The word of the Lord.
ALLELUIA Matthew 17:5c
Alleluia. This is my beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased; listen to him. Alleluia.
-GOSPEL-
“His face shone like the sun.”
A reading from the holy Gospel according to Matthew (Matthew17:1b-9)
At that time: Jesus took with him Peter and James and John his brother, and led them up a high mountain apart. And he was transfigured before them, and his face shone like the sun, and his garments became white as light. And behold, there appeared to them Moses and Elijah, talking with him. And Peter said to Jesus, “Lord, it is well that we are here; if you wish, I will make three booths here, one for you and one for Moses and one for Elijah.” He was still speaking, when behold, a bright cloud over shadowed them, and a voice from the cloud said, “This is my beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased; listen to him.” When the disciples heard this, they fell on their faces, and were filled with awe. But Jesus came and touched them, saying, “Rise, and have no fear.” And when they lifted up their eyes, they saw no one but Jesus only. And as they were coming down the mountain, Jesus commanded them, “Tell no one the vision, until the Son of man is raised from the dead.”
The Gospel of the Lord.
Today’s Reflection
The Transfiguration gives us a fresh opportunity to renew our faith in the lordship of Jesus. Jesus is exalted above all and his dominion will last forever. Today is a day of testimonies. God bears witness to the fact that Jesus is the Son of God to whom we must pledge obedience and worship. Kingship is associated with glory, honour and dominion, and all these are hidden in the humanity of Jesus. Those who recognize Jesus as Lord experience concretely his power in their lives. With all the love that our hearts bear, let us profess that it is good for us to be with Christ our Lord, in thankful acknowledgement of his kindness in admitting us into his presence. Let us boldly confess Jesus as Lord, to the glory of the father.
Personal Devotional
Create a pure heart in me, O God, and put a new and loyal spirit in me, do not take your holy spirit away from me. Give me again the joy that comes from your salvation and make me willing to obey you. Psalm 51: 10-12
- On what path are you walking, child of God?
- Many ways seem right to the man but the end thereof is condemnation. Ask the Holy Spirit to redirect your footsteps to the Lord’s path.
- Your eyes may have been veiled to see Jesus, ask the Lord to open the eyes of your mind to see and accept Jesus live in their lives and for their salvation.
- Pray against dashed hopes and shattered dreams of your lives and look towards the rising sun and not towards the settling sun.
Let Us Pray
O Christ Jesus, when all is darkness, and we feel our weakness and helplessness, give us to have perfect trust in your protecting love and strengthening power, so that nothing may frighten or worry us, for, living close to you, we shall see your hand, your purpose, your will through all things in Jesus name Amen.
MONDAY August 7, 2023
Weekday (18)
Vestment: Green
Today’s Rosary: The Joyful Mystery
-FIRST READING-
A reading from the Book of Numbers (Numbers 11:4b-15)
I am not able to carry all this people alone.
In those days: The people of Israel said, “O that we had meat to eat! We remember the fish we ate in Egypt for nothing, the cucumbers, the melons, the leeks, the onions, and the garlic; but now our strength is dried up, and there is nothing at all but this manna to look at.” Now the manna was like coriander seed, and its appearance like that of gum resin. The people went about and gathered it, and ground it in mills or beat it in mortars, and boiled it in pots, and made cakes of it; and the taste of it was like the taste of cakes baked with oil. When the dew fell upon the camp in the night, the manna fell with it. Moses heard the people weeping throughout their families, every man at the door of his tent; and the anger of the Lord blazed hotly, and Moses was displeased. Moses said to the Lord, “Why have you dealt ill with your servant? And why have I not found favour in your sight, that you lay the burden of all this people upon me? Did I conceive all this people? Did I bring them forth, that you should say to me, ‘Carry them in your bosom, as a nurse carries the sucking child,’ to the land which you swore to give their fathers? Where am I to get meat to give to all this people? For they weep before me and say, ‘Give us meat, that we may eat. ’I am not able to carry all this people alone, the burden is too heavy for me. If you will deal thus with me, kill me at once, if I find favour in your sight, that I may not see my wretchedness.
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Psalm81:12-13.14-15.16-17(R.2a)
R. Sing joyfully to God our strength.
My people did not heed my voice,
And Israel would not obey me.
So I left them in their stubbornness of heart,
to follow their own designs. R.
O that my people would heed me,
that Israel would walk in my ways!
At once I would subdue their foes,
Turn my hand against their enemies. R.
Those who hate the Lord would cringe before him,
and their subjection would last forever.
But Israel I would feed with finest wheat,
and satisfy with honey from the rock. R.
ALLELUIA Matthew 4:4b
Alleluia. Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceeds from the mouth of God. Alleluia.
-GOSPEL-
A reading from the holy Gospel according to Matthew (Matthew 14:13-21)
He looked up to heaven, and blessed, and broke and gave the loaves to the disciples, and the disciples gave them to the crowds.
At that time: When Jesus heard [of the death of John the Baptist], he withdrew from there in a boat to a lonely place apart. But when the crowds heard it, they followed him on foot from the towns. As he went ashore he saw a great throng; and he had compassion on them, and healed their sick. When it was evening, the disciples came to him and said, “This is a lonely place, and the day is now over; send the crowds away to go into the villages and buy food for themselves.” Jesus said. “They need not go away; you give them something to eat.” They said to him, “We have only five loaves here and two fish.” And he said, “Bring them here to me.” Then he ordered the crowds to sit down on the grass; and taking the five loaves and the two fish he looked up to heaven, and blessed, and broke and gave the loaves to the disciples, and the disciples gave them to the crowds. And they all ate and were satisfied. And they took up twelve baskets full of the broken pieces left over. And those who ate were about five thousand men, besides women and children.
The Gospel of the Lord.
Today's Reflection
Today we see a totally different kind of behaviour in Jesus when he receives news about the death of john. He withdraws to a lonely place, but the crowd won’t accept it and they follow him. There are moments in our lives when Jesus seems to hide from us. He is just nowhere to be found. So there are times when even we feel desperate and hopeless like the crowd to find Jesus. Each of them must have had an experience with Jesus to have that fire within them. Do we have our own unique encounter with Jesus? How meaningful is that for us? Do we too desire to pursue him irrespective of any hardship? Could we be like those people who will just not stop searching for him?
Tuesday August 8, 2023
Weekday (18).
Vestment: Green
Today’s Rosary: The Sorrowful Mystery
-FIRST READING-
Moses is not like other prophets. Why then were you not afraid to speak
A reading from the Book of Numbers (Numbers 12:1-13).
In those days: Miriam and Aaron spoke against Moses because of the Cushite woman whom he had married, for he had married a Cushite woman; and they said, “Has the Lord indeed spoken only through Moses? Has he not spoken through us also?” And the Lord heard it. Now the man Moses was very meek, more than all men that were on the face of the earth. And suddenly the Lord said to Moses and to Aaron and Miriam, “Come out, you three, to the tent of meeting.” And the three of them came out. And the Lord came down in a pillar of cloud, and stood at the door of the tent, and called Aaron and Miriam; and they both came forward. And he said, “Hear my words: If there is a prophet among you, I the Lord make myself known to him in a vision, I speak with him in a dream. Not so with my servant Moses; he is entrusted with all my house. With him I speak mouth to mouth, clearly, and not in dark speech; and he beholds the form of the Lord. Why then were you not afraid to speak against my servant Moses?” And the anger of the Lord was kindled against them, and he departed; and when the cloud removed from over the tent, behold, Miriam was leprous, as white as snow. And Aaron turned towards Miriam, and behold, she was leprous. And Aaron said to Moses, “Oh, my lord, do not punish us because we have done foolishly and have sinned. Let her not be as one dead, of whom the flesh is half consumed when he comes out of his mother’s womb.” And Moses cried to the Lord, “Heal her, O God, I beg you.”
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Ps 51:3-4.5-6ab.6cd—7.12-13 (R. see 3a).
R. Have mercy, O Lord, for we have sinned.
Have mercy on me, O God,
according to your merciful love;
according to your great compassion,
blot out my transgressions.
Wash me completely from my iniquity,
and cleanse me from my sin. R.
My transgressions, truly I know them;
my sin is always before me.
Against you, you alone, have I sinned;
what is evil in your sight I have done. R.
R. Have mercy, O Lord, for we have sinned.
So you are just in your sentence,
without reproach in your judgement.
O see, in guilt I was born,
A sinner when my mother conceived me. R.
Create a pure heart for me, O God;
renew a steadfast spirit within me.
Do not cast me away from your presence;
take not your holy spirit from me. R.
Alleluia John 1:49b
Alleluia. Rabbi, you are the Son of God! You are the King of Israel! Alleluia.
-GOSPEL-
“Bid me come to you on the water”
A reading from the holy Gospel according to Matthew (Matthew 14:22-36).
[After the crowd ate and were satisfied.] Jesus made the disciples get into the boat and go before him to the other side, while he dismissed the crowds. And after he had dismissed the crowds, he went up into the hills by himself to pray. When evening came, he was there alone, but the boat by this time was many furlongs distant from the land, beaten by the waves; for the wind was against them. And in the fourth watch of the night he came to them, walking on the sea. But when the disciples saw him walking on the sea, they were terrified saying, “It is a ghost!” And they cried out for fear. But immediately he spoke to them, saying, “Take heart, it is I; have no fear.” And Peter answered him, “Lord, if it is you, bid me come to you on the water.” He said, “Come.” So Peter got out of the boat and walked on the water and came to Jesus; but when he saw the wind, he was afraid, and beginning to sink he cried out, “Lord, save me.” Jesus immediately reached out his hand and caught him, saying to him, “O you of little faith, why did you doubt?” And when they got into the boat, the wind ceased. And those in the boat worshipped him, saying, “Truly you are the Son of God.” And when they had crossed over they came to land at Gennesaret. And when the men of that place recognized him, they sent round to all that region and brought to him all that were sick, and begged him that they might only touch the fringe of his garment; and as many as touched it were made well.
The Gospel of the Lord.
Today’s Reflection
Sickness cripples and disfigures us, rendering us uncomfortable and incapacitated. Seeing Miriam ravaged and blemished by disease, Moses cried out to God to restore her health (Numbers 12:11-13). Jesus came to restore the beauty of God’s creation by healing the sick. At Gennesaret they brought all who were sick to Jesus and he healed them (Matt 14:35-36). Beyond physical sickness, an emotional sickness that can destroy people is fear. When Jesus appeared in the fourth watch of the night, walking on the sea, his disciples were crippled by fear. Peter cried out in fear while walking on the sea towards Jesus. He doubted, became afraid, and then he began to sink. But Jesus rescued him. He heals our fears too.
Personal Devotional
“But I will bless those who put their trust in me. They are like trees growing near a stream and sending out roots to the water. They are not afraid when hot weather comes, because their leaves stay green; they have no worries when there is no rain; they keep on bearing fruits. Jeremiah 17:7,8
- Lord, help me to know that no matter what I face, you are still God who can save me.
- Pray for all experiencing one form of challenge or the other that God may intervene in their lives.
- Pray that the Lord should give you the grace not to fail him no matter the condition.
- Pray for the orphan, widows and widowers in our midst that God may assist them.
- Pray for all accident victims in the hospitals that the Lord may hasten their healing.
Let Us Pray
Gracious and holy Father, please give me: intellect to understand you, reason to discern you; diligence to seek you; wisdom to find you; a spirit to know you; a heart to meditate upon you; ears to hear you; eyes to see you; a tongue to proclaim you; a way of life pleasing to you; patience to wait for you; and perseverance to look for you.
Grant me: a perfect end, your holy presence. A blessed resurrection, and life everlasting. Amen.
WEDNESDAY August 9, 2023
Weekday (18)
Vestment: Green
Today’s Rosary: The Glorious Mystery
SAINT SIXTUS II, Pope, and Companions, Martyrs
SAINT CAJETAN, Priest
-FIRST READING-
A reading from the Book of Numbers (Numbers 13: 1-2.25-14:1.26-29.34-35)
They scorned the desirable land (Psalm 106:24).
In those days: The Lord said to Moses [in the wilderness of Paran], “Send men to spy out the land of Canaan, which I give to the sons of Israel; from each tribe of their fathers shall you send a man, every one a leader among them.” At the end of forty days they returned from spying out the land. And they came to Moses and Aaron and to all the congregation of the sons of Israel in the wilderness of Paran at Kadesh; they brought back word to them and to all the congregation, and showed them the fruit of the land. And they told him, “We came to the land to which you sent us; it flows with milk and honey, and this is its fruit. Yet the people who dwell in the land are strong, and the cities are fortified and very large; and besides, we saw the descendants of Anak there. The Amalekites dwell in the land of the Negeb; the Hittites, the Jebusites, and the Amorites dwell in the hill country; and the Canaanites dwell by the sea, and along the Jordan.” But Caleb quieted the people before Moses, and said, “Let us go up at once, and occupy it; for we are well able to over come it.” Then the men who had gone up with him said, “We are not able to go up against the people; for they are stronger than we.” So they brought to the sons of Israel an evil report of the land which they had spied out, saying, “The land, through which we have gone to spy it out, is a land that devours its inhabitants; and all the people that we saw in it are men of great stature. And there we saw the Nephilim (the sons of Anak, who come from the Nephilim); and we seemed to ourselves like grasshoppers, and so we seemed to them.” Then all the congregation raised a loud cry; and the people wept that night. And the Lord said to Moses and to Aaron, “How long shall this wicked congregation murmur against me? I have heard the murmurings of the sons of Israel, which they murmur against me. Say to them, ‘As I live, says the Lord, what you have said in my hearing I will do to you: your dead bodies shall fall in this wilderness; of all your number, numbered from twenty years old and upward, who have murmured against me. According to the number of the days in which you spied out the land, forty days, for everyday a year, you shall bear your iniquity, forty years, and you shall know my displeasure.’ I, the Lord, have spoken; surely this will I do to all this wicked congregation that are gathered together against me: in this wilderness they shall come to a full end, and there they shall die.
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Ps 106:6-7ab.13-14.21-22.23 (R. see 4a)
R. O Lord, remember us with the favour you show to your people.
Or: Alleluia.
Like our fathers, we have sinned.
We have done wrong; our deeds have been evil.
Our forebears, when they were in Egypt,
Did not grasp the meaning of your wonders. R.
But they soon forgot his deeds,
and would not wait upon his counsel.
They yielded to their cravings in the desert,
And put God to the test in the wilderness. R.
They forgot the God who was their saviour,
who had done such great things in Egypt,
such wonders in the land of Ham,
such marvels at the Red Sea. R.
For this he said he would destroy them,
but Moses, the man he had chosen,
stood in the breach before him,
to turn back his anger from destruction. R.
ALLELUIA Luke 7:16
Alleluia. A great prophet has arisen among us, and God has visited his people. Alleluia.
-GOSPEL-
A reading from the holy Gospel according to Matthew (Matthew 15 :21-28)
O woman, great is your faith!
At that time: Jesus went away and withdrew to the district of Tyre and Sidon. And behold, a Canaanite woman from that region came out and cried, “Have mercy on me, O Lord, Son of David; my daughter is severely possessed by a demon.” But he did not answer her a word. And his disciples came and begged him, saying, “Send her away, for she is crying after us.” He answered, “I was sent only to the lost sheep of the house of Israel.” But she came and knelt before him, saying, “Lord, help me.” And he answered, “It is not fair to take the children’s bread and throw it to the dogs.” She said, “Yes, Lord, yet even the dogs eat the crumbs that fall from their masters’ table. Then Jesus answered her, “O woman, great is your faith! Let it be done for you as you desire. And her daughter was healed instantly.
The Gospel of the Lord.
Today's Reflection
In life we go through many rejections, but Jesus wants to empower us to “beg” for what we need, like the Canaanite woman in the Gospel today. An episode like this is an occasion for us to look at our own attitudes toward people of other races, ethnic groups and nationalities, not to mention the socially disadvantaged or physically or mentally disabled-in other words, any people who are ‘different’. How inclusive are we in word and action? And does our parish community go out of its way to provide a welcome for the outsider? These are very real questions in societies that are becoming more and more inter-cultural. Let us have faith in God and in his promises. Only then will we have hope for the future.
Thursday 10th August
Weekday (18)
Vestment: Red
Today’s Rosary: The Luminous Mystery
SAINT LAWRENCE, Deacon and Martyr (Feast)
Lawrence is probably the most famous of the Roman martyrs. He was a deacon full of love for the poor, filled with courage before his torturers and a good sense of humour even while dying for his faith in 258. Tradition holds that as he was roasting to death on a gridiron, he asked his torturers to turn him over, since he was “done” enough on that side. Devotion to Lawrence was widespread by the fourth century.
Entrance Antiphon
This is the blessed Lawrence, who gave himself up for the treasure of the Church: for this he earned the suffering of martyrdom to ascend with joy to the Lord Jesus Christ.
Collect
O God, giver of that ardour of love for you, by which Saint Lawrence was outstandingly faithful in service and glorious in martyrdom; grant that we may love what he loved and put into practice what he taught. Through our Lord. . .
-FIRST READING-
A reading from the second Letter of Saint Paul to the Corinthians (2 Corinthians 9:6b-10)
“God loves a cheerful giver.”
Brethren: He who sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and he who sows bountifully will also reap bountifully. Each one must do as he has made up his mind, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver. And God is able to provide you with every blessing in abundance, so that you may always have enough of everything and may provide in abundance for every good work. As it is written, “He scatters abroad, he gives to the poor; his righteousness endures for ever.” He who supplies seed to the sower and bread for food will supply and multiply your resources and increase the harvest of your righteousness.
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Psalml12:lb-2.5-6.7-8.9 (R. 5a)
R. It goes well for the man who deals generously and lends.
Blessed the man who fears the Lord,
who takes great delight in his commandments.
His descendants shall be powerful on earth;
the generation of the upright will be blest. R.
It goes well for the man who deals generously and lends,
who conducts his affairs with justice.
He will never be moved;
or ever shall the just be remembered. R.
He has no fear of evil news;
with a firm heart, he trusts in the Lord.
With a steadfast heart he will not fear;
he will see the downfall of his foes. R.
Open-handed, he gives to the poor;
his justice stands firm for ever.
His might shall be exalted in glory. R.
Alleluia John 8:12
Alleluia. I am the light of the world, says the Lord; he who follows me will have the light of life. Alleluia.
-GOSPEL-
A reading from the holy Gospel according to John (John 12:24-26)
“If any one serves me, the Father will honour him.”
At that time: Jesus said to his disciples, “Truly, truly, I say to you, unless a grain of wheat falls into the earth and dies, it remains alone; but if it dies, it bears much fruit. He who loves his life loses it, and he who hates his life in this world will keep it for eternal life. If any one serves me, he must follow me; and where I am, there shall my servant be also; if any one serves me, the Father will honour him.”
The Gospel of the Lord.
Today's Reflection
St Lawrence was a deacon of the Church of Rome who was temporarily in charge of the church administration. During persecution, the authorities asked him to surrender all the treasures of the church in three days. For the next three days, St Lawrence went around gathering the poor supported by the church. Then he brought them before the authorities and presented them as the ‘treasures of the Church’. The martyrdom of St Lawrence reminds us that our lives are to be poured out for others so that they can grow in faith and love and be the treasures of the church. Hence, every sacrifice we make is like a dying to ourselves, and yet the harvest that will be reaped will make it all worth it.
FRIDAY 11 August 2023
Weekday 18
Vestment: Green
Today’s Rosary: Sorrowful Mystery
St Edith Stein (opt mem)
-FIRST READING-
A reading from the Book of Deuteronomy (Deuteronomy 4:32-40)
He loved your fathers and chose their descendants after them.
Moses spoke to the people, saying, Ask now of the days that are past, which were before you, since the day that God created man upon the earth, and ask from one end of heaven to the other, whether such a great thing as this has ever happened or was ever heard of. Did any people ever hear the voice of God speaking out of the midst of the fire, as you have heard, and still live? Or has God ever attempted to go and take a nation for himself from the midst of another nation, by trials, by signs, by wonders, and by war, by a mighty hand and an outstretched arm, and by great terrors, according to all that the Lord your God did for you in Egypt before your eyes? To you it was shown, that you might know that the Lord is God; there is no other besides him. Out of heaven he let you hear his voice, that he might discipline you; and on earth he let you see his great fire, and you heard his words out of the midst of the fire. And because he loved your fathers and chose their descendants after them, and brought you out of Egypt with his own presence; by his great power, driving out before you nations greater and mightier than yourselves, to bring you in, to give you their land for an inheritance, as at this day; know therefore this day, and lay it to your heart, that the Lord is God in heaven above and on the earth beneath; there is no other. Therefore you shall keep his statutes and his commandments, which I command you this day, that it may go well with you, and with your children after you, and that you may prolong your days in the land which the Lord your God gives you forever.
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Psalm 77: 12-13. 14-15.16 and 2 l(R. 12a)
R. I remember the deeds of the Lord.
I remember the deeds of the Lord,
I remember your wonders of old;
I muse on all your works,
And ponder your mighty deeds. R.
Your way, O God, is in the holy place.
What god is as great as our God?
You are the God who works wonders.
Among the peoples you showed your power. R.
Your strong arm redeemed your people,
the descendants of Jacob and Joseph.
You guided your people like a flock
By the hand of Moses and Aaron. R.
ALLELUIA Matthew 5:10
Alleluia. Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Alleluia.
-GOSPEL-
A reading from the holy Gospel according to Matthew (Matthew 16:24-28)
What shall a man give in return for his life?
At that time: Jesus told his disciples, If any man would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross and follow me. For whoever would save his life will lose it, and whoever loses his life for my sake will find it. For what will it profit a man, if he gains the whole world and forfeits his life? Or what shall a man give in return for his life? For the Son of man is to come with his angels in the glory of his Father, and then he will repay every man for what he has done. Truly, I say to you, there are some standing here who will not taste death before they see the Son of man coming in his kingdom.
The Gospel of the Lord.
Todays Saint
St Edith Stein– August 9th
One cannot desire freedom from the Cross when one is especially chosen for the Cross.
The nation doesn’t simply need what we have. It needs what we are.
Today's Reflection
In the movie the CEO by kunle Afolayan, the famous words of Christ are quoted when Eloise tells Kola, “What would it profit a man to gain the whole world but lose his soul? At the point she says this, in the whole scheming drama of becoming the next CEO by elimination, three lives have already been lost, including that of her husband. What darkness can fill the soul when it runs after worldly positions! what has a man to offer in exchange for his soul? Well, the truth that Jesus is teaching us is indeed a paradox of life. For it is in letting go that we gain. In other words, let go and let God!
Saturday August 12, 2023
Weekday (18).
Vestment: Green
Today’s Rosary: The Joyful Mystery
-FIRST READING-
“You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart.”
A reading from the Book of Deuteronomy (Deuteronomy 6:4-13).
Moses spoke to the people, saying, “Hear, O Israel: The Lord our God is one Lord; and you shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your might. And these words which I command you this day shall be upon your heart; and you shall teach them diligently to your children and shall talk of them when you sit in your house, and when you walk by the way, and when you lie down, and when you rise. And you shall bind them as a sign upon your hand, and they shall be as frontlets between your eyes. And you shall write them on the doorposts of your house and on your gates. “And when the Lord your God brings you into the land which he swore to your fathers, to Abraham, to Isaac, and to Jacob, to give you, with great and excellent cities, which you did not build, and houses full of all good things, which you did not fill, and cisterns hewn out, which you did not hew, and vineyards and olive trees, which you did not plant, and when you eat and are full, then take heed lest you forget the Lord, who brought you out of the land of Egypt, out of the house of bondage. You shall fear the Lord your God; you shall serve him, and swear by his name.”
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Psalm18:2-3a.3bc-4.47and 51ab (R. 2).
R/. I love you, Lord, my strength.
I love you, Lord, my strength;
O Lord, my rock, my fortress, my saviour. R.
My God, my rock where I take refuge;
my shield, my saving strength, my stronghold.
I cry out, “Praised be the Lord!”
and see, I am saved from my foes. R.
The Lord lives, and blest be my Rock!
May the God of my salvation be exalted,
The Lord gives great victories to his king,
and shows merciful love for his anointed. R.
ALLELUIA 2 Timothy1:10
Alleluia. Our Saviour Christ Jesus abolished death and brought life and immortality to light through the Gospel. Alleluia.
-GOSPEL-
If you have faith, nothing will be impossible to you.
A reading from the holy Gospel according to Matthew (Matthew17:14-20).
At that time: A man came up to Jesus and kneeling before him said, “Lord, have mercy on my son, for he is an epileptic and he suffers terribly; for often he falls into the fire, and often into the water. And I brought him to your disciples, and they could not heal him.” And Jesus answered, “O faithless and perverse generation, how long am I to be with you? How long am I to bear with you? Bring him here to me.” And Jesus rebuked him, and the demon came out of him, and the boy was cured instantly. Then the disciples came to Jesus privately and said, “Why could we not cast it out?” He said to them, “Because of your little faith. For truly, I say to you, if you have faith as a grain of mustard seed, you will say to this mountain, ‘Move from here to there, ’ and it will move; and nothing will be impossible to you.”
The Gospel of the Lord.
Today’s Reflection
The Father of an epileptic child was in desperate search of healing for his son. The disciples of Jesus attempted to heal the child, but could not. They felt so disappointed. Jesus intervened and healed the child. When they asked him why they could not save the boy, Jesus told them it was because of their little faith. Perhaps pride was beginning to set into their lives; they may have trusted in their own power instead of the power of God; most likely, they attempted to heal in their own name instead of invoking the name of God. Faith is a powerful force that moves mountains. St Ambrose says, “Faith is the firm foundation of all the virtues.”
Personal Devotional
“Do not judge others, so that God will not judge you, for God will judge you in the same way as you judge others, and he will apply to you the same rules you apply to others, - Matthew 7:1,2
- Give me the spirit of fair judgment, so that I may not judge others unjustly
- Guide my utterances so that they will conform to your plan for me
Let Us Pray
God, grant me the wisdom that would make me focused and firm-minded. It is only in this that I can have clear understanding of your plan and enter into the fullness of your purpose for my life. Grant me the grace not to go about trying to think out the formula for situations facing me. But help me to always ASK in FAITH in the name of Jesus Christ. Amen. Protect me from evil friends and demonic agents.
Sunday August 13, 2023
Nineteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time
Vestment: Green
Today’s Rosary: The Glorious Mystery
NATIONAL FAMILY WEEK BEGINS TODAY.
Theme of the Sunday: Revelation of God and the Revelation of Christ. The first reading and the gospel have the same theme, the revelation of the face of God. In the first reading God manifests himself to Elijah in a completely new way, different from the pagan gods and from the way to which Israel was accustomed. In the gospel we have a further revelation of God, through Jesus who comes, like the God of the Old Testament, as master of the sea, giving his own divine power to humans. The second reading touches on the same theme as it reminds us of the difficulties Paul had to face. We could say that he was saved by Jesus who stretched out his hand to him, just as he did to Peter.
Entrance Antiphon Cf. Ps 73:20.19.22.23
Look to your covenant, O Lord; forget not the life of your poor ones forever. Arise, O God, and defend your cause; do not forget the cries of those who seek you.
Collect
Almighty ever-living God, whom, taught by the Holy Spirit, we dare to call our Father, bring, we pray, to perfection in our hearts the spirit of adoption as your sons and daughters, that we may merit to enter into the inheritance which you have promised. Through our Lord...
-FIRST READING-
“Stand upon the mount before the Lord.”
A reading from the first Book of Kings (1 Kings 19:9a.11-13a)
In those days: When Elijah came to [Horeb the mount of God,] he lodged in a cave; and behold, the word of the Lord came to him. And he said, “Go forth, and stand upon the mount before the Lord.” And behold, the Lord passed by, and a great and strong wind tore the mountains, and broke in pieces the rocks before the Lord, but the Lord was not in the wind; and after the wind an earthquake, but the Lord was not in the earthquake; and after the earthquake a fire, but the Lord was not in the fire; and after the fire a still small voice. And when Elijah heard it, he wrapped his face in his mantle and went out and stood at the entrance of the cave.
The word of the Lord
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Psalm 85:8ab and 9.10-11.12-13 (R. 7)
R/. Let us see, O Lord, your mercy, and grant us your salvation.
I will hear what the Lord God speaks;
he speaks of peace for his people and his faithful.
His salvation is near for those who fear him,
and his glory will dwell in our land. R.
Merciful love and faithfulness have met;
justice and peace have kissed.
Faithfulness shall spring from the earth,
and justice look down from heaven. R.
Also the Lord will bestow his bounty,
and our earth shall yield its increase.
Justice will march before him,
and guide his steps on the way. R.
-SECOND READING-
“I would willingly be condemned if it would help my brother.”
A reading from the Letter of Saint Paul to the Romans (Romans 9:1 - 5)
Brethren: I am speaking the truth in Christ, I am not lying; my conscience bears me witness in the Holy Spirit, that I have great sorrow and unceasing anguish in my heart. For I could wish that I myself were accursed and cut off from Christ for the sake of my brethren, my kinsmen according to the flesh. They are Israelites, and to them belong the sonship, the glory, the covenants, the giving of the law, the worship, and the promises; to them belong the patriarchs, and of their race, according to the flesh, is the Christ, who is God over all, blessed forever. Amen.
The word of the Lord.
ALLELUIA Psalm130:5
Alleluia. I long for you O Lord, my soul longs for his word. Alleluia.
-GOSPEL-
“Bid me to come to you on the water. ”
A reading from the holy Gospel according to Matthew (Matthew 14:22-33)
[After the crowd was satisfied,] Jesus made the disciples get into the boat and go before him to the other side, while he dismissed the crowds. And after he had dismissed the crowds, he went up into the hills by himself to pray. When evening came, he was there alone, but the boat by this time was many furlongs distant from the land, beaten by the waves; for the wind was against them. And in the fourth watch of the night he came to them, walking on the sea. But when the disciples saw him walking on the sea, they were terrified, saying, “It is a ghost!” And they cried out for fear. But immediately he spoke to them, saying, “Take heart, it is I; have no fear.” And Peter answered him, “Lord, if it is you, bid me come to you on the water.” He said, “Come.” So Peter got out of the boat and walked on the water and came to Jesus; but when he saw the wind, he was afraid, and beginning to sink he cried out, “Lord, save me.” Jesus immediately reached out his hand and caught him, saying to him, “O you of little faith, why did you doubt?” And when they got into the boat, the wind ceased. And those in the boat worshipped him, saying, “Truly you are the Son of God.”
The Gospel of the Lord.
PRAYER OF THE FAITHFUL
God speaks in a gentle breeze.
PRIEST: My brothers and sisters, Elijah found God’s presence in the gentle breeze. Let us listen to God’s voice as we ask him for all the graces which will make us aware of his presence in our world.
READER:
For contemplative monks and nuns, (pause) that their lives may be so centered on God that they remain ever sensitive to his presence, and be the listening posts for the Church. (pause) father, hear us; as we call on your name we pray Oh Lord.
For those who seek God’s will in public life, (pause) that they ay see the happenings in our world as signs of God’s presence among us, and use their faith to respond to his call, (pause) father, hear us; as we call on your name we pray Oh Lord.
For those undergoing emotional conflicts, (pause) may their trouble minds and hearts be soothed by the Lord who calmed the storm on the lake, and may they be assured that all will be will. (pause) father, hear us; as we call on your name we pray Oh Lord.
For an appreciation of the value of silence, (pause) that we may put aside a part of each day where we can be still as we listen to God, who speaks to us of his great love and unceasing care. (pause) father, hear us; as we call on your name we pray Oh Lord.
We make our prayers in silence to God, who knows what is in our hearts.
PRIEST: Father, you hear us when we call on you. May we be always sensitive to your voice and walk forever in your presence. Through Christ our Lord. Amen.
Today’s Reflection
When you are in presence of God, what image of God do you see? You might want God to appear like a violent wind that blows your enemies away. You might want him to appear like earthquake or like fire to devour and burn unfaithful people to ashes. When God appears, his true manifestation humbles us and beats our imagination. Sometimes, our anguish or disturbed state of mind might condition the way we picture God. But God is not a fierce-looking mammon that frightens us or who wants to take vengeance on us. Through history, God has appeared and given abundant proof of his faithfulness, mercy, compassion and constant concern for our salvation. He is inviting us today to drop wrong notions of him and to share in his compassionate concern for his people.
Today's Saint and quote: St Edith Stein– August 9th
One cannot desire freedom from the Cross when one is especially chosen for the Cross.
The nation doesn’t simply need what we have. It needs what we are.
Personal Devotional
“Do not store up riches for yourself here on earth, where moths and rust destroys and robbers break in and steal. Instead, store up riches for yourself in heaven, where moths and rust cannot destroy, and robbers cannot break in and steal. For your heart will always be where your riches are. Matthew 6:19-21
- Pray for mercy for the times you have treasured earthly possessions at the expense of the kingdom.
- Pray for the spirit of detachment from created things.
- Pray for the grace to fix your mind on treasures above.
- Surrender all things to God; tell God to help you to let go of earthly treasure.
Let Us Pray
Please keep me safe from all dangers and harm. Help me to start this day with a new attitude and plenty of gratitude. Let me make the best of this day with a clear mind, so that I can hear from you. Please broaden my mind that I can accept all things. Let me not whine and whimper over things that I have no control over. Moreover, this is the best response when I am pushed beyond my limits. I know that when I cannot pray, you listen to my heart. Continue to use me O Lord to do your will. Please Lord continue to use me that I may be a blessing to others especially those who are hurt and do not have any person to help them. Keep me strong that I may help the weak. Keep me uplifted that I may have words of encouragement for others in Jesus name Amen.
MONDAY August 14, 2023
Weekday (19)
Vestment: Green
Today’s Rosary: The Joyful Mystery
-FIRST READING-
A reading from the Book of Deuteronomy (Deuteronomy 10:12-22)
Circumcise your heart. Love the sojourner, for you were sojourners
Moses spoke to the people, saying, And now, Israel, what does the Lord your God require of you, but to fear the Lord your God, to walk in all his ways, to love him, to serve the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul, and to keep the commandments and statutes of the Lord, which I command you this day for your good? Behold, to the Lord your God belong heaven and the heaven of heavens, the earth with all that is in it; yet the Lord set his heart in love upon your fathers and chose their descendants after them, you above all peoples, as at this day. Circumcise therefore the foreskin of your heart, and be no longer stubborn. For the Lord your God is God of gods and Lord of lords, the great, the mighty, and the terrible God, who is not partial and takes no bribe. He executes justice for the fatherless and the widow, and loves the sojourner, giving him food and clothing. Love the sojoumer therefore; for you were sojourners in the land of Egypt. You shall fear the Lord your God; you shall serve him and cling to him, and by his name you shall swear. He is your praise; he is your God, who has done for you these great and terrible things which your eyes have seen. Your fathers went down to Egypt seventy persons; and now the Lord your God has made you as the stars of heaven for multitude.
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Psalm 147: 12-13.14-15.19-20 (R. 12a)
R. O Jerusalem, glorify the Lord.
Or: Alleluia.
O Jerusalem, glorify the Lord!
O Sion, praise your God!
He has strengthened the bars of your gates;
he has blessed your children within you. R.
He established peace on your borders;
he gives you your fill of finest wheat.
He sends out his word to the earth,
and swiftly runs his command. R.
He reveals his word to Jacob;
To Israel, his decrees and judgements.
He has not dealt thus with other nations;
He has not taught them his judgements. R.
ALLELUIA See 2 Thessalonians 2:14
Alleluia. God has called us through the Gospel, to obtain the glory of our Lord Jesus Christ. Alleluia.
-GOSPEL-
A reading from the holy Gospel according to Matthew (Matthew 17:22-27)
They will kill him, and he will be raised. The sons are free from tribute.
At that time: As the disciples were gathering in Galilee, Jesus said to them, “The Son of man is to be delivered into the hands of men, and they will kill him, and he will be raised on the third day.” And they were greatly distressed. When they came to Capernaiun, the collectors of the half-shekel tax went up to Peter and said, “Does not your teacher pay the tax?” He said, “Yes.” And when he came home, Jesus spoke to him first, saying, “What do you think, Simon? From whom do kings of the earth take toll or tribute? From their sons or from others?” And when he said, “From others,” Jesus said to him, “Then the sons are free. However, not to give offence to them, go to the sea and cast a hook, and take the first fish that comes up, and when you open its mouth you will find a shekel; take that and give it to them for me and for yourself.”
The Gospel of the Lord.
St Jane Frances de Chantal – August 12th
There is no danger if our prayer is without words or reflection because the good success of prayer depends neither on words nor on study. It depends upon the simple raising of our minds to God, and the more simple and stripped of feeling it is, the surer it is.
Hold your eyes on God and leave the doing to Him. That is all the doing you have to worry about.
Today's Reflection
Today’s Gospel passage talks about a serious dilemma: should Christians who were Jews continue to pay the temple tax? Should Christians pay tax to a pagan government? Jesus pays and says: “Give to Caesar what belongs to Caesar and to God what belongs to God.” In life we may be pushed to pay many “half-shekels” we are not really obliged to pay. But then we need to be humble and obedient just like Jesus. We have to discern what is legitimately required of us by our government and contribute for the needs of our society, but at the same time we have not to compromise on issues where truth and justice are at stake. Civil disobedience is not only a right but also a responsibility.
Vigil of the Assumption of BVM (Solemnity)
Vestment: White
This Mass is used on the evening of 14 August, either before or after First Vespers (Evening Prayer I) of the Solemnity.
Entrance Antiphon
Glorious things are spoken of you, O Mary, who today were exalted above the choirs of Angels into eternal triumph with Christ.
Collect
O God, who, looking on the lowliness of the Blessed Virgin Mary, raised her to this grace, that your Only Begotten Son was born of her according to the flesh, and that, she was crowned this day with surpassing glory, grant through her prayers, that saved by the mystery of your redemption, we may merit to be exalted by you on high. Through our Lord. ..
-FIRST READING-
A reading from the first Book of Chronicles (1 Chronicles 15:3-4.15-16;16:1-2)
They brought in the ark of God, and set it inside the tent which David had pitched for it.”
In those days: David assembled all Israel at Jerusalem, to bring up the ark of the Lord to its place, which he had prepared for it. And David gathered together the sons of Aaron and the Levites. And the Levites carried the ark of God upon their shoulders with the poles, as Moses had commanded according to the word of the Lord. David also commanded the chiefs of the Levites to appoint their brethren as the singers who should play loudly on musical instruments, on harps and lyres and cymbals, to raise sounds of joy. And they brought in the ark of God, and set it inside the tent which David had pitched for it; and they offered burnt offerings and peace offerings before God. And when David had finished offering the burnt offerings and the peace offerings, he blessed the people in the name of the Lord.
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Psalm 132:6-7.9-10.13—14(R.8)
R. Go up, Lord, to the place of your rest, you and the ark of your strength.
At Ephrata we heard of it;
we found it in the plains of Yearim.
Let us go to the place of his dwelling;
let us bow down at his footstool. R.
Your priests shall be clothed with justice;
your faithful shall ring out their joy.
For the sake of David your servant,
do not reject your anointed. R.
For the Lord has chosen Sion;
he has desired it for his dwelling:
This is my resting place from age to age;
here have I chosen to dwell. R.
-SECOND READING-
A reading from the first Letter of Saint Paul to the Corinthians (1 Corinthians 15:54b-57)
He gives us the victory through Jesus Christ.
Brethren: When the mortal puts on immortality, then shall come to pass the saying that is written: “Death is swallowed up in victory.” “O death, where is your victory? O death, where is your sting?” The sting of death is sin, and the power of sin is the law. But thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.
The word of the Lord.
ALLELUIA Luke 11:28
Alleluia. Blessed are those who hear the word of God and keep it. Alleluia.
-GOSPEL-
A reading from the body Gospel according to Luke (Luke 11:27-28)
Blessed is the womb that bore you.
At that time: As Jesus was speaking, a woman in the crowd raised her voice and said to him, “Blessed is the womb that bore you, and the breasts that you sucked!” But he said, “Blessed rather are those who hear the word of God and keep it!
The Gospel of the Lord.
Tuesday August 15, 2023
THE ASSUMPTION OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN MARY (Solemnity)
Weekday (20).
Vestment: White
Today’s Rosary: The Sorrowful Mystery
Vesper II of the Assumption of the B.V.M
Death Anniversary: MAKURDI: Bishop Donal Murray, C.S.Sp.-15/08/99
Theme of the Feast: The Lord Did Great Things in Her Life. The world is a battle field where the forces of death and the forces of life battle each other. It is easy to see that the forces of death appear, in many cases, to have the upper hand: hatred, solitude, betrayals, social and economic injustice, fear, disease: these are all points scored in favour of the forces of death. There is however a particular moment when death manifests its overwhelming power: when it ends our days on earth. What does God, who created us for life, do? Doe she just look on unmoved at our defeat? Mary, who celebrates today the triumph of life over death, gives us the appropriate reply to these distressing questions.
Entrance Antiphon Cf. Rv12:1
A great sign appeared in heaven: a woman clothed with the sun, and the moon beneath her feet, and on her head a crown of twelve stars.
Or:
Let us all rejoice in the Lord, as we celebrate the feast day in honour of the Virgin Mary, at whose Assumption the Angels rejoice and praise the Son of God.
The Gloria in excelsis (Glory to God in the highest) is said.
Collect
Almighty ever-living God, who assumed the Immaculate Virgin Mary, the Mother of your Son, body and soul into heavenly glory, grant, we pray, that, always attentive to the things that are above, we may merit to be sharers of her glory. Through our Lord.
-FIRST READING-
A woman clothed with the sun, with the moon under her feet.
A reading from the Book of Revelation (Revelation 11:19a:12:1-6a.10ab).
God’s temple in heaven was opened. And a great sign appeared in heaven, a woman clothed with the sun, with the moon under her feet, and on her head a crown of twelve stars; she was with child and she cried out in her pangs of birth, in anguish for delivery. And another sign appeared in heaven; behold, a great red dragon, with seven heads and ten horns, and seven diadems upon his heads. His tails wept down a third of the stars of heaven, and cast them to the earth. And the dragon stood before the woman who was about to bear a child, that he might devour her child when she brought it forth; she brought forth a male child, one who is to rule all the nations with a rod of iron, but her child was caught up to God and to his throne, and the woman fled into the wilderness, where she has a place prepared by God. And I heard a loud voice in heaven, saying, “Now the salvation and the power and kingdom of our God and the authority of his Christ have come.”
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Psalm45:10.11.12.16 (R.10b).
R/. On your right stands the queen in gold of Ophir.
The daughters of kings are those whom you favour.
On your tight stands the queen in gold of Ophir. R.
Listen, O daughter; pay heed and give ear;
forget your own people and your father’s house. R.
R/. On your right stands the queen in gold of Ophir.
So will the king desire your beauty.
He is your lord, pay homage to him. R.
They are escorted amid gladness and joy;
they pass within the palace of the king. R.
-SECOND READING-
Christ the first fruits, then those who belong to Christ.
A reading from the first Letter of Saint Paul to the Corinthians (I Corinthians 15:20-27).
Brethren: Christ has been raised from the dead, the first fruits of those who have fallen asleep. For as by a man came death, by a man has come also the resurrection of the dead. For a sin Adam all die, so also in Christ shall all be made alive. But each in his own order: Christ the first fruits, then at his coming those who belong to Christ. Then comes the end, when he delivers the kingdom to God the Father after destroying every rule and every authority and power. For he must reign until he has put all his enemies under his feet. The last enemy to be destroyed is death. “For God has put all things in subjection under his feet.”
The word of the Lord.
ALLELUIA
Alleluia. Mary has been taken up into heaven; the host of angels rejoices. Alleluia.
-GOSPEL-
He who is mighty has done great things for me, he has exalted those of low degree.
A reading from the holy Gospel according to Luke (Luke 1:39-56).
In those days Mary arose and went with haste into the hill country, to a city of Judah, and she entered the house of Zechariah and greeted Elizabeth. And when Elizabeth heard the greeting of Mary, the child leaped in her womb; and Elizabeth was filled with the Holy Spirit and she exclaimed with a loud cry, “Blessed are you among women, and blessed is the fruit of your womb! And why is this granted me, that the mother of my Lord should come to me? For behold, when the voice of your greeting came to my ears, the child in my womb leaped for joy. And blessed is she who believed that there would be a fulfillment of what was spoken to her from the Lord.” And Mary said, “My soul magnifies the Lord, and my spirit rejoices in God my Saviour, for he has regarded the low estate of his handmaiden. For behold, henceforth all generations will call me blessed; for he who is mighty has done great things for me, and holy is his name. And his mercy is on those who fear him from generation to generation. He has shown strength with his arm, he has scattered the proud in the imagination of their hearts, he has put down the mighty from their thrones, and exalted those of low degree; he has filled the hungry with good things, and the rich he has sent empty away. He has helped his servant Israel, in remembrance of his mercy, as he spoke to our fathers, to Abraham and to his posterity forever.” And Mary remained with her about three months, and returned to her home.
The Gospel of the Lord.
Today’s Reflection
The word ‘assumption’ has different meanings. One meaning is the act of taking someone into heaven. Today is a day of thanksgiving to God for honouring our beloved Mother Mary by taking her, body and soul, into heaven. As a church we believe that God did not allow the body of the Blessed Virgin Mary to decay because it was a holy dwelling place of God. The catechism puts it clearly, “Finally, the immaculate Virgin, preserved free from all stain of original sin, when the course of her earthly life was finished, was taken up body and soul into heavenly glory.” The Book of revelation points to this mystery: “God’s temple was opened. And a great sign appeared in heaven, a woman clothed with the sun, with the moon under her feet, and on her head a crown of twelve stars” (Revelation 11:19; 12:1).
About the Solemnity:
The solemnity of the Assumption celebrates the completion of God’s triumph in Mary. The one who had been chosen in a special way to be the Mother of the Lord and of the Church, the one who had been filled with the Holy Spirit at the Annunciation and Pentecost, the one who is full of grace, now lives in the glory of heaven, in body and soul, sharing in the resurrection of Christ. Pope Pius XII declared the bodily assumption of Mary into heaven as a dogma of the Church in 1950.
Personal Devotional
Arise, O Lord, into thy resting place: thou and the ark, which thou hast sanctified.. - Ps 131:8
- Pray at least 5 decades of the rosary in honour of Our Mother Mary and to seek her motherly intercession in your life.
Let us pray and praise God in the words of Mary:
“My soul now glorifies, the Lord who is my saviour, rejoice for who am I, that God has shown me favour, the world shall call me blessed, and ponder on my story, in me is manifest God’s greatness and His glory.
For those who are His friends and keep his laws most holy, his mercy never ends, and He exalts the lowly.
But by his power, the great, the proud, the self-conceited, the kings who sit in state, are humbled and defeated.
He feeds the starving poor, he guides his holy nation, fulfilling what he swore, long since in revelation.
Glorify with me, the Lord who is my Saviour, one Holy Trinity, forever and forever.
WEDNESDAY 16TH AUGUST
Weekday (19)
Vestment: Red
Today’s Rosary: The Glorious Mystery
-FIRST READING-
A reading from the Book of Deuteronomy (Deuteronomy 34:1-12)
Moses died there, according to the word of the Lord, and there has not arisen a prophet like him.
In those days: Moses went up from the plains of Moab to Mount Nebo, to the top of Pisgah, which is opposite Jericho. And the Lord showed him all the land, Gilead as far as Dan, all Naphtali, the land of Ephraim and Manasseh, all the land of Judah as far as the western sea, the Negeb, and the Plain, that is, the valley of Jericho the city of palm trees, as far as Zoar. And the Lord said to him, “This is the land of which I swore to Abraham, to Isaac, and to Jacob, ‘I will give it to your descendants.’ I have let you see it with your eyes, but you shall not go over there.” So Moses the servant of the Lord died there in the land of Moab, according to the word of the Lord, and he buried him in the valley in the land of Moab opposite Beth-peor; but no man knows the place of his burial to this day. Moses was a hundred and twenty years old when he died; his eye was not dim, nor his natural force abated. And the sons of Israel wept for Moses in the plains of Moab thirty days; then the days of weeping and mourning for Moses were ended. And Joshua the son of Nun was full of the spirit of wisdom, for Moses had laid his hands upon him; so the people of Israel obeyed him, and did as the Lord had commanded Moses. And there has not arisen a prophet since in Israel like Moses, whom the Lord knew face to face, none like him for all the signs and the wonders which the Lord sent him to do in the land of Egypt, to Pharaoh and to all his servants and to all his land, and for all the mighty power and all the great and terrible deeds which Moses wrought in the sight of all Israel.
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Ps 66: 1-3a.5 and 8.16-17 (R. see 20a, 9a)
R. Blest be God, who gave life to my soul.
Cry out with joy to God, all the earth;
O sing to the glory of his name.
O render him glorious praise.
Say to God, “How awesome your deeds! R.
Come and see the works of God:
Awesome his deeds among the children of men.
O peoples, bless our God;
Let the voice of his praise resound. R
Come and hear, all who fear God;
I will tell what he did for my soul.
To him I cried aloud,
With exaltation ready on my tongue. R.
ALLELUIA 2 Corinthians 5:19
Alleluia. God was in Christ reconciling the world to himself, and entrusting to us the message of reconciliation. Alleluia.
-GOSPEL-
A reading from the holy Gospel according to Matthew (Matthew 18:15-20)
If he listens to you, you have gained your brother.
At that time: Jesus said to his disciples, “If your brother sins against you, go and tell him his fault, between you and him alone. If he listens to you, you have gained your brother. But if he does not listen, take one or two others along with you, that every word may be confirmed by the evidence of two or three witnesses. If he refuses to listen to them, tell it to the Church; and if he refuses to listen even to the Church, let him be to you as a Gentile and a tax collector. Truly, I say to you, whatever you bind on earth shall be bound in heaven, and whatever you loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven. Again I say to you, if two of you agree on earth about anything they ask, it will be done for them by my Father in heaven. For where two or three are gathered in my name, there am I in the midst of them.
The Gospel of the Lord.
St Maximilian Kolbe – August 14th
The most deadly poison of our times is indifference. And this happens, although the praise of God should know no limits. Let us strive, therefore, to praise Him to the greatest extent of our powers.
Today's Reflection
Moses’ mission ends before he enters the Promised Land. Moses was shown the land over the mountains, but he was not allowed to enter it because he struck the rock twice which indicated his lack of trust in God (Num 20:11). Joshua was appointed to bring the assembly into the land. Moses was a great leader who knew the lord face to face and who worked many signs and wonders. But a moment’s doubt cost him the privilege of entering the Promised Land. God experts our total, unconditional obedience and trust in him.
Thursday August 17, 2023
Weekday (19).
Vestment: Green
Today’s Rosary: The Luminous Mystery
-FIRST READING-
“The ark of the covenant of the Lord is to pass over before you into the Jordan.”
A reading from the Book of Joshua (Joshua 3 :7-10a.11.13-17).
In those days: The Lord said to Joshua, “This day I will begin to exalt you in the sight of all Israel, that they may know that, as I was with Moses, so I will be with you. And you shall command the priests who bear the Ark of the Covenant, ‘When you come to the brink of the waters of the Jordan, you shall stand still in the Jordan. ”’ And Joshua said to the sons of Israel, “Come here, and hear the words of the Lord your God.” And Joshua said, “Hereby you shall know that the living God is among you, and that he will without fail drive out from before you the Canaanites. Behold, the ark of the covenant of the Lord of all the earth is to pass over before you into the Jordan. And when the soles of the feet of the priests who bear the ark of the Lord, the Lord of all the earth, shall rest in the waters of the Jordan, the waters of the Jordan shall be stopped from flowing, and the waters coming down from above shall stand in one heap.” So, when the people set out from their tents, to Passover the Jordan with the priests bearing the ark of the covenant before the people, and when those who bore the ark had come to the Jordan, and the feet of the priests bearing the ark were dipped in the brink of the water (the Jordan over flows all its banks throughout the time of harvest), the waters coming down from above stood and rose up in a heap far off, at Adam, the city that is beside Zarethan, and those flowing down towards the sea of the Arabah, the Salt Sea, were wholly cut off; and the people passed over opposite Jericho. And while all Israel were passing over on dry ground, the priests who bore the ark of the covenant of the Lord stood on dry ground in the midst of the Jordan, until all the nation finished passing over the Jordan.
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Ps114:1-2.3-4.5-6
R. Alleluia.
When Israel came forth from Egypt,
The house of Jacob from a foreign people,
Judah became his temple,
Israel became his domain. R.
The sea beheld them and fled;
The Jordan turned back on its course.
The mountains leapt like rams,
And the hills like yearling sheep. R.
Why was it, sea, that you fled;
That you turned back, Jordan, on your course?
O mountains, that you leapt like rams;
O hills, like yearling sheep? R.
ALLELUIA Psalm 119:135
Alleluia. Let your face shine forth on your servant, and teach me your decrees. Alleluia
-GOSPEL-
“I do not say to you to forgive seven times, but seventy times seven.”
A reading from the holy Gospel according to Matthew (Matthew 18:21-19:1).
At that time: Peter came up and said to Jesus, “Lord, how often shall my brother sin against me, and I forgive him? As many as seven times?” Jesus said to him, “I do not say to you seven times, but seventy times seven. “Therefore the kingdom of heaven may be compared to a king who wished to settle accounts with his servants. When he began the reckoning, one was brought to him who owed him ten thousand talents; and as he could not pay, his lord ordered him to be sold, with his wife and children and all that he had, and payment to be made. So the servant fell on his knees, imploring him, ‘Lord, have patience with me, and I will pay you everything.’ “And out of pity for him the lord of that servant released him and forgave him the debt. But that same servant, as he went out, came upon one of his fellow servants who owed him ahundred denarii; and seizing him by the throat he said, ‘Pay what you owe.’ “So his fellow servant fell down and pleaded with him, ‘Have patience with me, and I will pay you. ’He refused and went and put him in prison till he should pay the debt. When his fellow servants saw what had taken place, they were greatly distressed, and they went and reported to their lord all that had taken place. Then his lord summoned him and said to him, ‘You wicked servant! I forgave you all that debt because you pleaded with me; and should not you have had mercy on your fellow servant, as I had mercy on you?’ And in anger his lord delivered him to the jailers, till he should pay all his debt. So also my heavenly Father will do to every one of you, if you do not forgive your brother from your heart.” Now when Jesus had finished these sayings, he went away from Galilee and entered the region of Judea beyond the Jordan.
The Gospel of the Lord.
Today’s Reflection
Often we do forgive, but in some situations forgiveness becomes a tough challenge. How is it possible to forgive those who have offended us? How is it possible to forgive people who dragged our names in the mud and humiliated us in different ways? Another difficult question is: how many times should we forgive those who offend us? Peter asked Jesus whether it was okay to forgive seven times. Jesus told Peter: not seven, but seventy times since God is so merciful to us, we ought to appreciate his mercy by forgiving our brothers and sisters. How do we treat powerless people who are pushed to the fringes of society?
Today’s Saint and Quote: St Jane Frances de Chantal – August 12th
There is no danger if our prayer is without words or reflection because the good success of prayer depends neither on words nor on study. It depends upon the simple raising of our minds to God, and the more simple and stripped of feeling it is, the surer it is.
Hold your eyes on God and leave the doing to Him. That is all the doing you have to worry about.
Personal Devotional
Do not complain against one another, my brothers and sisters, so that God will not judge you. The Judge is near, ready to appear. James 5:9
- Pray for the grace to have a forgiving heart no matter the offence.
- In prayer call the names of those whom you have tied down through non forgiveness, and from your heart, pronounce their forgiveness.
- Pray for those you may have hurt that God will soften and heal their heart.
Let Us Pray
O Father, God of mercy and power, grant me the grace to be a source of joy of people around me. May my life bring glory to your holy name at all times. Give me the grace, Holy Father, to avoid sin and all occasions of sin. Make me thirst for holiness of life through the study of your word and practice of generosity to the church and the less privileged. Like the deer thirsts for water, so my soul thirsts for you O Lord.
FRIDAY August 18, 2023
Weekday (19)
Vestment: Green
Today’s Rosary: The Sorrowful Mystery
-FIRST READING-
A reading from the Book of Joshua (Joshua 24:1-13)
I took your father from beyond the River,’ I brought you out of Egypt,’ I brought you to the land
In those days: Joshua gathered all the tribes of Israel to Shechem, and summoned the elders, the heads, the judges, and the officers of Israel; and they presented themselves before God. And Joshua said to all the people, “Thus says the Lord, the God of Israel, ‘Your fathers lived of old beyond the Euphrates, Terah, the father of Abraham and of Nahor; and they served other gods. Then I took your father Abraham from beyond the River and led him through all the land of Canaan, and made his offspring many. I gave him Isaac; and to Isaac I gave Jacob and Esau. And I gave Esau the hill country of Seir to possess, but Jacob and his children went down to Egypt. And I sent Moses and Aaron, and I plagued Egypt with what I did in the midst of it; and afterwards I brought you out. Then I brought your fathers out of Egypt, and you came to the sea; and the Egyptians pursued your fathers with chariots and horsemen to the Red Sea. And when they cried to the Lord, he put darkness between you and the Egyptians, and made the sea come upon them and cover them; and your eyes saw what I did to Egypt; and you lived in the wilderness a long time. Then I brought you to the land of the Amorites, who lived on the other side of the Jordan; they fought with you, and I gave them into your hand, and you took possession of their land, and I destroyed them before you. Then Balak the son of Zippor, king of Moab, arose and fought against Israel; and he sent and invited Balaam the son of Beor to curse you, but I would not listen to Balaam; therefore he blessed you; so I delivered you out of his hand. And you went over the Jordan and came to Jericho, and the men of Jericho fought against you, and also the Amorites, the Perizzites, the Canaanites, the Hittites, the Girgashites, the Hivites, and the Jebusites; and I gave them into your hand. And I sent the hornet before you, which drove them out before you, the two kings of the Amorites; it was not by your sword or by your bow. I gave you a land on which you had not laboured, and cities which you had not built, and you dwell there in; you eat the fruit of vineyards and olive yards which you did not plant.”’
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Ps136:1-3.16-18.21-22 and 24 (R.1b)
R. For his mercy endures forever
Or: Alleluia.
O give thanks to the Lord, for he is good,
for his mercy endures forever.
Give thanks to the God of gods,
for his mercy endures forever.
Give thanks to the Lord of lords,
for his mercy endures forever. R.
Through the desert his people he led,
for his mercy endures forever.
Nations in their greatness he struck,
For his mercy endures forever.
Kings in their spendour he slew,
For his mercy endures forever. R.
He gave their land as a heritage,
For his mercy endures forever.
A heritage for Israel, his servant,
For his mercy endures forever.
And he snatched us away from our foes,
For his mercy endures forever. R.
ALLELUIA See 1 Thessalonians 2:13
Alleluia. Accept the word of God, not as the word of men, but as what it really is, the word of God. Alleluia.
-GOSPEL-
A reading from the holy Gospel according to Matthew (Matthew 19:3-12)
For your hardness of heart Moses allowed you to divorce your wives, but from the beginning it was not so.
At that time: Pharisees came up to Jesus and tested him by asking, “Is it lawful to divorce one’s wife for any cause?” He answered, ‘Have you not read that he who made them from the beginning made them male and female, and said, ‘For this reason a man shall leave his father and mother and be joined to his wife, and the two shall become one’? So they are no longer two but one. What therefore God has joined together, let no man put asunder.” They said to him, “Why then did Moses command one to give a certificate of divorce, and to put her away?” He said to them, “For your hardness of heart Moses allowed you to divorce your wives, but from the beginning it was not so. And I say to you: whoever divorces his wife, except for unchastity, and marries another, commits adultery; and he who marries a divorced woman, commits adultery.” The disciples said to him, “If such is the case of a man with his wife, it is not expedient to marry.” But he said to them, “Not all men can receive this precept, but only those to whom it is given. For there are eunuchs who have been so from birth, and there are eunuchs who have been made eunuchs by men, and there are eunuchs who have made themselves eunuchs for the sake of the kingdom of heaven. He who is able to receive this, let him receive it.”
The Gospel of the Lord.
Today's Reflection
Oftentimes I remind myself never to forget where I come from. When that happens there is every tendency to misbehave and lose one’s bearing. Now the Israelites have crossed the Jordan and settled in the Promised land. It was not their own doing. God then decides to remind them how the journey has been: “This is not the work of your sword or your bow. I gave you a land where you never toiled, you lived in towns you never built, and you eat now from vineyards and olive groves you never planted.” Maybe we too might look back and see the hand of God in the events of our lives, things that happened quite beyond our expectations or our own ability to bring them about.
SATURDAY August 19, 2023
Weekday (19)
Vestment: White
Today’s Rosary: The Joyful Mystery
B. V. M
-FIRST READING-
A reading from the Book of Joshua (Joshua 24: 14-29)
Choose this day whom you will serve.
In those days: Joshua spoke to the people, saying, “Now therefore fear the Lord, and serve him in sincerity and in faithfulness; put away the gods which your fathers served beyond the River, and in Egypt, and serve the Lord. And if you be unwilling to serve the Lord, choose this day whom you will serve, whether the gods your fathers served in the region beyond the River, or the gods of the Amorites in whose land you dwell; but as for me and my house, we will serve the Lord. ”Then the people answered, “Far be it from us that we should forsake the Lord, to serve other gods; for it is the Lord our God who brought us and our fathers up from the land of Egypt, out of the house of bondage, and who did those great signs in our sight, and preserved us in all the way that we went, and among all the peoples through whom we passed; and the Lord drove out before us all the peoples, the Amorites who lived in the land; therefore we also will serve the Lord, for he is our God.” But Joshua said to the people, “You cannot serve the Lord; for he is a holy God; he is a jealous God; he will not forgive your transgressions or your sins. If you forsake the Lord and serve foreign gods, then he will turn and do you harm, and consume you, after having done you good.” And the people said to Joshua, “No; but we will serve the Lord.” Then Joshua said to the people, “You are witnesses against yourselves that you have chosen the Lord, to serve him.” And they said, “We are witnesses.” He said, “Then put away the foreign gods which are among you, and incline your heart to the Lord, the God of Israel.” And the people said to Joshua, ‘The Lord our God we will serve, and his voice we will obey.” So Joshua made a covenant with the people that day, and made statutes and ordinances for them at Shechem. And Joshua wrote these words in the book of the law of God; and he took a great stone, and set it up there under the oak in the sanctuary of the Lord. And Joshua said to all the people, “Behold, this stone shall be a witness against us; for it has heard all the words of the Lord which he spoke to us; therefore it shall be a witness against you, lest you deal falsely with your God.” So Joshua sent the people away, every man to his inheritance. After these things Joshua the son of Nun, the servant of the Lord, died, being a hundred and ten years old.
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Psalm16:1-2aand5.7-8.11(R.see5a)
R. It is you, O Lord, who are my portion.
Preserve me, O God, for in you I take refuge.
I say to the Lord, “You are my Lord.
O Lord, it is you who are my portion and cup;
you yourself who secure my lot. R.
I will bless the Lord who gives me counsel,
Who even at night directs my heart.
I keep the Lord before me always;
With him at my right hand, I shall not be moved. R.
You will show me the path of life,
the fullness of joy in your presence,
at your right hand, bliss forever. R.
ALLELUIA See Matthew11:25
Alleluia. Blessed are you, Father, Lord of heaven and earth, that you have revealed to little ones the mysteries of the kingdom. Alleluia.
-GOSPEL-
A reading from the holy Gospel according to Matthew (Matthew 19:13-15)
Let the children come to me, and do not hinder them, for to such belongs the kingdom of heaven.
At that time: Children were brought to Jesus that he might lay his hands on them and pray. The disciples rebuked the people; but Jesus said, “Let the children come to me, and do not hinder them; for to such belongs the kingdom of heaven.” And he laid his hands on them and went away.
The Gospel of the Lord.
Today's Reflection
People bringing their children to Jesus for him to touch and put his arms around them make today’s Gospel very heart-warming. But it is disturbing to see the disciples turning them away until Jesus has to stop them. Why would the disciples want to turn away such humble and commendable requests? Jesus, however, welcomes them and says that the kingdom of heaven belongs to them. For us adults, the greatest thing we can do for children is to give them tender love. We must share our faith with our children, pray with them, as well as for them. We must bless them with the sign of the cross on their foreheads as they go off to school and when they come back.
Sunday August 20, 2023
20th Sunday in Ordinary Time
Vestment: Green
Today’s Rosary: The Glorious Mystery
Theme of the Sunday: What Does “Catholic Church” mean? “Catholic” stands for “universal,” that is, open to all people. The first reading tells us that Israel, before going into exile and before coming in contact with other peoples, was not “catholic,” it was closed in upon itself. Later Israel, more enlightened, realized that the one God is Father of all. The gospel shows what Jesus thinks.
Christian communities must be really “catholic,” open to receive everybody, the second reading is related to this topic and shows that salvation is not a result of privilege or because one is a member of a certain people, but because one accepts the saving initiative of God.
Entrance Antiphon Ps 83:10-11
Turn your eyes, O God, our shield; and look on the face of your anointed one; one day within your courts is better than a thousand elsewhere.
Collect
O God, who have prepared for those who love you good things which no eye can see, fill our hearts, we pray, with the warmth of your love, so that, loving you in all things and above all things, we may attain your promises, which surpass every human desire. Through our Lord…
-FIRST READING-
“And the foreigners I will bring to my holy mountain.”
A reading from the Book of Isaiah (Isaiah 56: 1,6-7)
Thus says the LORD: “Keep justice, and do righteousness, for soon my salvation will come, and my deliverance be revealed. “And the foreigners who join themselves to the LORD, to minister to him, to love the name of the LORD, and to be his servants, every one who keeps the Sabbath, and does not profane it, and holds fast my covenant – these I will bring to my holy mountain, and make them joyful in my house of prayer; their burnt offerings and their sacrifices will be accepted on my altar; for my house shall be called a house of prayer for all peoples.”
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSLAM Ps 67:2-3.5.6.8 (R. 4)
R/. Let the peoples praise you, O God; let all the peoples praise you!
O God, be gracious and bless us
And let your face shed its lights upon.
So will your ways be known upon earth
and all nations learn your salvation. R.
Let the nations be glad and shout for joy,
with uprightness you rule the peoples;
you guide the nations on earth. R.
Let the peoples praise you, O God;
let all the peoples praise you.
May God still give us his blessing
That all the ends of the earth may revere him. R.
-SECOND READING-
“The gifts and the call of God are irrevocable.”
A reading from the Letter of Saint Paul to the Romans (Romans11:13-15.29-32)
Brethren: I am speaking to you Gentiles. In as much then as I am an apostle to the Gentiles, I magnify my ministry in order to make my fellow Jews jealous, and thus save some of them. For if their rejection means the reconciliation of the world, what will their acceptance mean but life from the dead? For the gifts and the call of God are irrevocable. Just as you were once disobedient to God but now have received mercy because of their disobedience, so they have now been disobedient in order that by the mercy shown to you they also may receive mercy. For God has consigned all men to disobedience, that he may have mercy upon all.
The word of the Lord.
ALLELUIA Matthew 4:23
Alleluia. Jesus was preaching the Gospel of the kingdom and healing every infirmity among the people. Alleluia.
-GOSPEL-
“O woman, great is your faith!”
A reading from the holy Gospel according to Matthew (Matthew15:21-28)
At that time: Jesus went away and withdrew to the district of Tyre and Sidon. And behold, a Canaanite woman from that region came out and cried, “Have mercy on me, O Lord, Son of David; my daughter is severely possessed by a demon.” But he did not answer her a word. And his disciples came and begged him, saying, “Send her away, for she is crying after us.” He answered, “I was sent only to the lost sheep of the house of Israel.” But she came and knelt before him, saying, “Lord, help me.” And he answered, “It is not fair to take the children’s bread and throw it to the dogs.” She said, “Yes, Lord, yet even the dogs eat the crumbs that fall from their masters’ table.” Then Jesus answered her, “O woman, great is your faith! Let it be done for you as you desire.” And her daughter was healed instantly.
The Gospel of the Lord.
PRAYER OF THE FAITHFUL
God shows mercy to all mankind.
PRIEST: My brothers and sisters, God our Father is generous to us with the gifts of faith, and wills the salvation of all mankind. Let us now pray for the spread of his kingdom.
READER:
FOR THE MISSION OF THE CHURCH (pause) that she may continue to proclaim Christ’s gospel to everyone, and so bring to all men his light, which shines brightly through the Church’s teaching and example. (pause) Lord, in your mercy; hear our prayer we pray Oh Lord.
FOR CHRISTIANS IN OUR GOVERNMENT, (pause) that their faith and love may be manifest in every aspect of their public life, so that they may be good leaders of their people. (pause) Lord, in your mercy; hear our prayer we pray Oh Lord.
FOR THOSE WHO ARE SEARCHING FOR GOD, (pause) that we may help them to build on their natural goodness, so that, aided by our prayers and example, they come to the knowledge and acceptance of Jesus Christ. (pause) Lord, in your mercy; hear our prayer we pray Oh Lord.
FOR CHRISTIAN UNITY, (pause) that we may not put obstacles in the way of other Christians, but fully understand that our believe in Christ is the source of our unity and mission. (pause) Lord, in your mercy; hear our prayer we pray Oh Lord.
We pray in silence for our own intentions, trusting that God our Father will answer us.
PRIEST: Father, you forgive us our sins and give us the gift of faith. May your mercy be known to everyone. Through Christ our Lord. Amen.
Today’s Reflection
Today’s readings repeat the biblical concept that from the beginning God planned to gather all peoples together into one flock. Isaiah tells us in the first Reading that even the foreigners who come to the Lord, who love the name of the Lord, and live faithfully, will be brought to the mountain of the Lord to live joyfully in the house of prayer. St Paul, the Apostle to the Gentiles, reminds us in the second Reading,”… by the mercy shown to you, they also may receive mercy.” Jesus praises the faith of a Canaanite woman and grants her request despite belonging to a foreign region.
Salvation is not meant only for the house of Israel. No one is excluded from God’s love and care. It is not meant only for those who belong to our church; it includes all categories of people: the foreign immigrant who lives on our streets, the outsider who is not a member of our church, the public sinner whom the society abhors, and the criminal who languishes in the prison cells. As Christians, our attitude must be one of openness, understanding and acceptance of people of all communities, creeds, regions, languages, social standards and character traits. The reason is that Jesus died and rose for all, and he is the Lord and Saviour of all. God cares for all his children without exception.
Personal Devotional
I am the vine, and you are the branches. Those who remain in me, and I in them, will bear much fruit; for you can do nothing without me. John 15:5
- Pray for grace to always go to the mountain especially when danger is near.
- Pray for the grace to have courageous faith in Jesus in times of adversity.
- Pray for those Christians especially users of this application passing through difficult times.
Let Us Pray
Teach us, good Lord, to serve you as you deserve; to give and not to count the cost; to fight and not to heed the wounds; to toil and not to seek for rest; to labour and not ask for any reward, save that of knowing that we do your will. Amen.
MONDAY August 21, 2023
Weekday (20)
Vestment: White
Today’s Rosary: The Joyful Mystery
-FIRST READING-
A reading from the Book of Judges (Judges 2:11-19)
The Lord raised up judges, yet they did not listen to them.
In those days: The sons of Israel did what was evil in the sight of the Lord and served the Baals; and they forsook the Lord, the God of their fathers, who had brought them out of the land of Egypt; they went after other gods, from among the gods of the peoples who were round about them, and bowed down to them; and they provoked the Lord to anger. They forsook the Lord, and served the Baals and the Ashtaroth. So the anger of the Lord was kindled against Israel, and he gave them over to plunderers, who plundered them; and he sold them into the power of their enemies round about, so that they could no longer withstand their enemies. Whenever they marched out, the hand of the Lord was against them for evil, as the Lord had warned, and as the Lord had sworn to them; and they were in great distress. Then the Lord raised up judges, who saved them out of the power of those who plundered them. And yet they did not listen to their judges; for they played the harlot after other gods and bowed down to them; they soon turned aside from the way in which their fathers had walked, who had obeyed the commandments of the Lord, and they did not do so. Whenever the Lord raised up judges for them, the Lord was with the judge, and he saved them from the hand of their enemies all the days of the judge; for the Lord was moved to pity by their groaning because of those who afflicted and oppressed them. But whenever the judge died, they turned back and behaved worse than their fathers, going after other gods, serving them and bowing down to them; they did not drop any of their practices or their stubborn ways.
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Ps 106:34-35.36-37.39-40.43ab and 44(R. see 4ab)
R. O Lord, remember us with the favour you show to your people.
They failed to destroy the peoples,
as the Lord had commanded them;
instead they mingled with the nations,
and learned to act as they did. R.
They also served their idols,
And these became a snare to entrap them.
They even offered their sons
and their daughters in sacrifice to demons. R.
So they defiled themselves by their actions;
their deeds were those of a harlot.
Then God’s anger blazed against his people;
he was filled with horror at his heritage. R.
Time after time he rescued them,
But in their malice they dared to defy him.
In spite of this he paid heed to their distress,
So often as he heard their cry. R.
ALLELUIA Matthew 5:3
Alleluia. Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Alleluia.
-GOSPEL-
A reading from the holy Gospel according to Matthew (Matthew 19:16-22)
If you would be perfect, sell what you possess, and you will have treasure in heaven.
At that time: Behold, one came up to Jesus, saying, “Teacher, what good deed must I do, to have eternal life? And he said to him, “Why do you ask me about what is good? One there is who is good. If you would enter life, keep the commandments. He said to him, which?” And Jesus said, “You shall not kill, You shall not commit adultery, You shall not steal, You shall not bear false witness, Honour your father and mother, and, You shall love your neighbor as yourself.” The young man said to him, “All these I have observed; what do I still lack? Jesus said to him, “If you would be perfect, go, sell what you possess and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven; and come, follow me. When the young man heard this he went away sorrowful; for he had great possessions.
The Gospel of the Lord.
Today's Reflection
We have in the first reading a recurring problem of the Israelites: they do what displeases the Lord and turn to idols. The reading’s brief description gives us an indication of why they fall into idolatry. Worship of idols is an expression of the weakness of every human heart that longs for power, might, wealth, sex and freedom from moral obligation. Worshipping these idols only temporarily fulfills these yearnings and desires, just as they do in our modern world. Worshipping the one true God has its moral obligations and it disciplines our wild heart from going astray. In worshipping the one true God we will have peace and joy that no amount of money can buy.
TUESDAY August 22, 2023
Weekday (20)
Vestment: White
Today’s Rosary: The Sorrowful Mystery
-FIRST READING-
A reading from the Book of Judges (Judges 6:11-24a)
Gideon, go and deliver Israel. Do not I send you?
In those days: The angel of the Lord came and sat under the oak at Ophrah, which belonged to Joash the Abiezrite, as his son Gideon was beating out wheat in the wine press, to hide it from the Midianites. And the angel of the Lord appeared to him and said to him, “The Lord is with you, you mighty man of valour.” And Gideon said to him, “Please, sir, if the Lord is with us, why then has all this be fallen us? And where are all his wonderful deeds which our fathers recounted to us, saying, ‘Did not the Lord bring us up from Egypt?’ But now the Lord has cast us off, and given us into the hand of Midian.” And the Lord turned to him and said, “Go in this might of yours and deliver Israel from the hand of Midian; do not I send you?” And he said to him, “Please, Lord, how can I deliver Israel? Behold, my clan is the weakest in Manasseh, and I am the least in my family.” And the Lord said to him, “But I will be with you, and you shall strike the Midianites as one man.” And he said to him, “If now I have found favour with you, then show me a sign that it is you who speak with me: Do not depart from here, I beg you, until I come to you, and bring out my present, and set it before you.” And he said, “I will stay till you return.” So Gideon went into his house and prepared a kid, and unleavened cakes from an ephah of flour; the meat he put in a basket, and the broth he put in a pot, and brought them to him under the oak and presented them. And the angel of God said to him, “Take them eat and the unleavened cakes, and put them on this rock, and pour the broth over them.” And he did so. Then the angel of the Lord reached out the tip of the staff that was in his hand, and touched them eat and the unleavened cakes; and there sprang up fire from the rock and consumed the flesh and the unleavened cakes; and the angel of the Lord vanished from his sight. Then Gideon perceived that he was the angel of the Lord; and Gideon said, “Alas, O Lord GOD! For now I have seen the angel of the Lord face to face.” But the Lord said to him, “Peace be to you; do not fear, you shall not die.” Then Gideon built an altar there to the Lord, and called it, The Lord is peace.
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Psalm85:9.11-12.13-14(R.see9b)
R. The Lord speaks of peace for his people.
I will hear what the Lord God speaks;
He speaks of peace for his people and his faithful,
And those who turn their hearts to him. R.
Merciful love and faithfulness have met;
justice and peace have kissed.
Faithfulness shall spring from the earth,
and justice look down from heaven. R.
Also the Lord will bestow his bounty,
and our earth shall yield its increase.
Justice will march before him,
And guide his steps on the way. R.
ALLELUIA 2 Corinthians 8:9
Alleluia. Though Jesus Christ was rich, yet for your sake he became poor, so that by his poverty you might become rich. Alleluia.
-GOSPEL-
A reading from the holy Gospel according to Matthew (Matthew 19:23-30)
It is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for a rich man to enter the kingdom of heaven.
At that time: Jesus said to his disciples, “Truly, I say to you, it will be hard for a rich man to enter the kingdom of heaven. Again I tell you, it is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for a rich man to enter the kingdom of God.” When the disciples heard this they were greatly astonished, saying, “Who then can be saved?” But Jesus looked at them and said to them, “With men this is impossible, but with God all things are possible.” Then Peter said in reply, “Behold, we have left everything and followed you. What then shall we have?” Jesus said to them, “Truly, I say to you, in the new world, when the Son of man shall sit on his glorious throne, you who have followed me will also sit on twelve thrones, judging the twelve tribes of Israel. And every one who has left houses or brothers or sisters or father or mother or children or lands, for my name’s sake, will receive a hundredfold, and inherit eternal life. But many that are first will be last, and the last first.
The Gospel of the Lord.
St Bernard of Clairvaux – August 20th
I believe though I do not comprehend, and I hold by faith what I cannot grasp with the mind.
Prayer is a wine that makes glad the heart of men
The tears of the penitents are wine for the angels.
Today's Reflection
In the first reading, the angel of the Lord appears to Gideon and addresses him as “valiant warrior”. Gideon cannot understand it because his clan is the weakest in Manasseh and he is the least important in his family. Yes, it is the Lord who empowers, strengthens, and sends forth those whom he has called and chosen. As we read this story we may remind ourselves that God is constantly calling us too. Our lack of talent or education or ability will never be an excuse. We can trust that he is always on our side, and we do not need extraordinary signs of his presence, although things may happen which will surprise us. He is, after all, “the God of surprises”.
In dangers, in doubts, in difficulties, think of Mary, call upon Mary. Let not her name depart from your lips, never suffer it to leave your heart. And that you may obtain the assistance of her prayer, neglect not to walk in her footsteps. With her for guide, you shall never go astray; while invoking her, you shall never lose heart; so long as she is in your mind, you are safe from deception; while she holds your hand, you cannot fall; under her protection you have nothing to fear; if she walks before you, you shall not grow weary; if she shows you favor, you shall reach the goal.
WEDNESDAY August 23, 2023
Weekday (20)
Vestment: White
Today’s Rosary: The Glorious Mystery
-FIRST READING-
A reading from the Book of Judges (Judges 9:6-15)
You said, A king shall reign over us, when the Lord your God was your king (1 Samuel 12.12).
At that time: All the citizens of Shechem came together, and all Beth-millo, and they went and made Abimelech king, by the oak of the pillar at Shechem. When it was told to Jotham, he went and stood on the top of Mount Gerizim, and cried aloud and said to them, “Listen to me, you men of Shechem, that God may listen to you. The trees once went forth to anoint a king over them; and they said to the olive tree, ‘Reign over us.’ “But the olive tree said to them, ‘Shall I leave my fatness, by which gods and men are honoured, and go to sway over the trees?’ “And the trees said to the fig tree, ‘Come you, and reign over us.’ “But the fig tree said to them, ‘Shall I leave my sweetness and my good fruit, and go to sway over the trees?’ “And the trees said to the vine, ‘Come you, and reign over us.’ “But the vine said to them, Shall I leave my wine which cheers gods and men, and go to sway over the trees?’ “Then all the trees said to the bramble, ‘Come you, and reign over us.’ “And the bramble said to the trees, ‘If in good faith you are anointing me king over you, then come and take refuge in my shade; but if not, let fire come out of the bramble and devour the cedars of Lebanon.
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Psalm21:2-3.4-5.6-7(R.2a)
R. In your strength, O Lord, the king rejoices.
In your strength, O Lord, the king rejoices;
how greatly your salvation makes him glad!
You have granted him his heart’s desire;
You wave not withheld the prayer of his lips. R.
You came to meet him with blessings of prosperity;
you have set on his head a crown of pure gold.
He asked. You for life and this you have given:
Days that will last from age to age. R.
By your saving help great is his glory;
You have bestowed upon him majesty and splendour;
You have granted him blessings for ever,
Made him rejoice with the joy of your presence. R.
ALLELUIA Hebrews 4:12
Alleluia. The word of the Lord is living and active, discerning the thoughts and intentions of the heart. Alleluia.
-GOSPEL-
A reading from the holy Gospel according to Matthew (Matthew 20:1-16a)
Do you begrudge my generosity?
At that time: Jesus told his disciples this parable: “The kingdom of heaven is like a householder who went out early in the morning to hire labourers for his vineyard. After agreeing with the labourers for a denarius a day, he sent them into his vineyard. And going out about the third hour he saw others standing idle in the market place; and to them he said, ‘You go into the vineyard too, and whatever is right I will give you.’ So they went. Going out again about the sixth hour and the ninth hour, he did the same. And about the eleventh hour he went out and found others standing; and he said to them, ‘Why do you stand here idle all day?’ “They said to him, ‘Because no one has hired us.’ “He said to them, ‘You go into the vineyard too.’ “And when evening came, the owner of the vineyard said to his steward, ‘Call the labourers and pay them their wages, beginning with the last, up to the first.’ And when those hired about the eleventh hour came, each of them received a denarius. Now when the first came, they thought they would receive more; but each of them also received a denarius. And on receiving it they grumbled at the householder, saying, ‘These last worked only one hour, and you have made them equal to us who have borne the burden of the day and the scorching heat.’ “But he replied to one of them, ‘Friend, I am doing you no wrong; did you not agree with me for a denarius? Take what belongs to you, and go; I choose to give to this last as I give to you. Am I not allowed to do what I choose with what belongs to me? Or do you begrudge my generosity?’ So the last will be first, and the first last.
The Gospel of the Lord.
Pope St. Pius X – August 21st
Holy Communion is the shortest and safest way to Heaven.
Today's Reflection
In today’s Gospel parable it does not seem at all fair that those who only work for one hour should get exactly the same as those who have worked from early in the morning and through the heat of the day. The complaint is about “unfair” wages, although it is not unjust; but the parable’s concern is about availability and generosity. The eleventh hour workers make themselves available even when it is coming to the end of the day, and that earns them the generosity of the land owner. Today’s parable shows us the justice of God, which we need to learn. He gives his love, all of his love, to every person without exception who opens himself to it. It does not matter whether that happens early or late.
THURSDAY August 24, 2023
Weekday (20)
Vestment: Red
Today’s Rosary: The Luminous Mystery
SAINT BARTHOLOMEW, AP. FEAST)
One of the Twelve, Bartholomew was from Cana in Galilee. Because the lists of the Twelve Apostles differ from one evangelist to another, he is usually identified with the Nathanael described in the Fourth Gospel. Tradition holds that after Pentecost, he preached the Gospel in Armenia, and suffered martyrdom there.
Entrance Antiphon cf. Ps96:2-3
Proclaim the salvation of God day by day; tell among the nations his glory.
Collect
Strengthen in us, O Lord, the faith by which the blessed Apostle Bartholomew clung whole heartedly to your Son, and grant that through the help of his prayers your Church may become for all the nations the sacrament of salvation. Through our Lord. . .
-FIRST READING-
A reading from the Book of Revelation (Revelation 21:9b-14)
On the foundations the names of the twelve apostles of the Lamb.
An angel spoke to me, saying, “Come, I will show you the Bride, the wife of the Lamb.” And in the Spirit he carried me away to a great, high mountain, and showed me the holy city Jerusalem coming down out of heaven from God, having the glory of God, its radiance like a most rare jewel, like a jasper, clear as crystal. It had a great, high wall, with twelve gates, and at the gates twelve angels, and on the gates the names of the twelve tribes of the sons of Israel were inscribed; on the east three gates, on the north three gates, on the south three gates, and on the west three gates. And the wall of the city had twelve foundations, and on them the twelve names of the twelve apostles of the Lamb.
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Ps145:10-11.12-13ab.17-18 (R. see 12a)
R. Your saints, O Lord, make known the glory of your reign.
All your works shall thank you, O Lord,
and all your faithful ones bless you.
They shall speak of the glory of your reign,
and declare your mighty deeds. R.
To make known your might to the children of men,
and the glorious splendour of your reign.
Your kingdom is an everlasting kingdom;
your rule endures for all generations. R.
The Lord is just in all his ways,
and holy in all his deeds.
The Lord is close to all who call him,
who call on him in truth. R.
ALLELUIA John 1:49 b
Alleluia. Rabbi, you are the Son of God! You are the King of Israel! Alleluia.
-GOSPEL-
A reading from the holy Gospel according to John (John 1:45-51)
Behold, an Israelite indeed, in whom is no guile!
At that time: Philip found Nathanael, and said to him, “We have found him of whom Moses in the law and also the prophets wrote, Jesus of Nazareth, the son of Joseph.” Nathanael said to him, “Can anything good come out of Nazareth?” Philip said to him, “Come and see.” Jesus saw Nathanael coming to him, and said of him, “Behold, an Israelite indeed, in whom is no guile!” Nathanael said to him, “How do you know me?” Jesus answered him, “Before Philip called you, when you were under the fig tree, I saw you.” Nathanael answered him, “Rabbi, you are the Son of God! You are the King of Israel!” Jesus answered him, “Because I said to you, I saw you under the fig tree, do you believe? You shall see greater things than these.” And he said to him, “Truly, truly, I say to you, you will see heaven opened, and the angels of God ascending and descending upon the Son of man.”
The Gospel of the Lord.
Today's Reflection
From the Gospel we can make a presumption of the kind of character St Bartholomew is. He is a straightforward person, who says what he means what he says. We can make that presumption when he queries: “Can anything good come from Nazareth?” Nonetheless, he is an open person because he follows Philip to see who Jesus is. Jesus in effect also confirms the character of Bartholomew by attesting that he noticed him under the fig tree. It is like he knows what kind of person Bartholomew really is similarly, Jesus also knows each of us through and through and he also wants to affirm our goodness. Like Bartholomew, let us continue to follow Jesus as he reveal himself to us.
FRIDAY August 25, 2023
Weekday (20)
Vestment: White
Today’s Rosary: The Sorrowful Mystery
-FIRST READING-
The beginning of the Book of Ruth (Ruth 1:1.3-6.14b-16.22
Naomi returned, and Ruth the Moabitess with her, and they came to Bethlehem.
In the days when the judges ruled there was a famine in the land, and a certain man of Bethlehem in Judah went to sojourn in the country of Moab, he and his wife Naomi and his two sons. But Elimelech, the husband of Naomi, died, and she was left with her two sons. These took Moabite wives; the name of the one was Orpah and the name of the other Ruth. They lived there about ten years; and both sons died, so that the woman was bereft of her two sons and her husband. Then she started with her daughters-in- law to return from the country of Moab, for she had heard in the country of Moab that the Lord had visited his people and given them food. And Orpah kissed her mother-in-law and went back, but Ruth clung to her. And she said, “See, your sister-in-law has gone back to her people and to her gods; return after your sister-in- law.” But Ruth said, “Entreat me not to leave you or to return from following you; for where you go I will go, and where you lodge I will lodge; your people shall be my people, and your God my God.” So Naomi returned, and Ruth the Moabitess her daughter- in-law with her, who returned from the country of Moab. And they came to Bethlehem at the beginning of barley harvest.
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Ps 146:5-6ab.6c-7.8-9a.9bc-10(R.1b)
R. My soul, give praise to the Lord!
Or: Alleluia.
Blessed is he who is helped by Jacob’s God,
whose hope is in the Lord his God,
who made the heavens and the earth,
the seas and all they contain. R
It is the Lord who preserves fidelity forever,
who does justice to those who are oppressed.
It is he who gives bread to the hungry,
The Lord who sets prisoners free. R.
It is the Lord who opens the eyes of the blind,
The Lord who raises up those who are bowed down.
It is the Lord who loves the just,
The Lord who protects the stranger. R.
The Lord upholds the orphan and the widow,
but thwarts the path of the wicked.
The Lord will reign forever,
The God of Sion from age to age. R.
ALLELUIA See Psalm 25:4b.5a
Alleluia. Teach me your paths, O Lord. Guide me in your truth. Alleluia.
-GOSPEL-
A reading from the holy Gospel according to Matthew (Matthew 22:34-40)
You shall love the Lord your God, your neighbor as yourself.
At that time: When the Pharisees heard that Jesus had silenced the Sadducees, they came together. And one of them, a lawyer, asked him a question, to test him, “Teacher, which is the great commandment in the law?” And he said to him, “You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your mind. This is the great and first commandment. And a second is like it, You shall love your neighbor as yourself. On these two commandments depend all the law and the prophets.”
The Gospel of the Lord.
St Rose of Lima – August 23rd
Apart from the cross, there is no other ladder by which we may get to heaven.
Today's Reflection
In the first reading, for survival, a man leaves his country for Moab, with his wife and two sons. They survive but the man later dies with his two sons, leaving behind the three women: his wife, and the wives of his two sons. The sons’ wives have to make a decision when Naomi, their mother-in-law, has to go back to her country. One goes back to her own people, a wise option. The other Ruth, decides to stay with her mother-in-law. Other than love for her mother-in-law, who needs companionship in her old age, it is difficult to say why Ruth decides to do this. Ruth chooses love as Jesus commands, and that leads to her same being engraved in the genealogy of Jesus today.
Saturday August 26, 2023
Weekday (20).
Vestment: White
Today’s Rosary: The Joyful Mystery
ST PIUS X, PP. (MEMORIAL)
-FIRST READING-
The Lord has not left you this day without next of kin. This is the father of Jesse, the father of David.
A reading from the Book of Ruth (Ruth 2:1-3.8-11; 4:13-17).
Now Naomi had a kinsman of her husband’s, a man of wealth, of the family of Elimelech, whose name was Boaz. And Ruth the Moabitess said to Naomi, “Let me go to the field, and glean among the ears of grain after him in whose sight I shall find favour.” And she said to her, “Go, my daughter.” So she set forth and went and gleaned in the field after the reapers; and she happened to come to the part of the field belonging to Boaz, who was of the family of Elimelech. Then Boaz said to Ruth, “Now, listen, my daughter, do not go to glean in another field or leave this one, but keep close to my maidens. Let your eyes be upon the field which they are reaping, and go after them. Have I not charged the young men not to molest you? And when you are thirsty, go to the vessels and drink what the young men have drawn.” Then she fell on her face, bowing to the ground, and said to him, “Why have I found favour in your eyes, that you should take notice of me, when I am a foreigner?” But Boaz answered her, “All that you have done for your mother-in-law since the death of your husband has been fully told me, and how you left your father and mother and your native land and came to a people that you did not know before. So Boaz took Ruth and she became his wife; and he went in to her, and the Lord gave her conception, and she bore a son. Then the women said to Naomi, “Blessed be the Lord, who has not left you this day without next of kin; and may his name be renowned in Israel! He shall be to you a restorer of life and a nourisher of your old age; for your daughter-in-law who loves you, who is more to you than seven sons, has borne him.” Then Naomi took the child and laid him in her bosom, and became his nurse. And the women of the neighbourhood gave him a name, saying, “A son has been born to Naomi.” They named him Obed; he was the father of Jesse, the father of David.
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Ps 128:1-2.3.4.5 (R. 4).
R. Indeed thus shall be blessed the man who fears the Lord.
Blessed are all who fear the Lord,
and walk in his ways!
By the labour of your hands you shall eat.
You will be blessed and prosper. R.
Your wife like a fruitful vine
in the heart of your house;
your children like shoots of the olive
around your table. R.
May the Lord bless you from Sion.
May you see Jerusalem prosper
all the days of your life! R.
ALLELUIA Matthew 23:9b.10b
Alleluia. You have one Father, who is in heaven, and you have one master, the Christ. Alleluia.
-GOSPEL-
“They preach, but do not practice.”
A reading from the holy Gospel according to Matthew (Matthew 23:1-12).
At that time: Jesus said to the crowds and to his disciples, “The scribes and the Pharisees sit on Moses’ seat; so practice and observe whatever they tell you, but not what they do; for they preach, but do not practice. They bind heavy burdens, hard to bear, and lay them on men’s shoulders; but they themselves will not move them with their finger. They do all their deeds to be seen by men; for they make their phylacteries broad and their fringes long, and they love the place of honour at feasts and the best seats in the synagogues, and salutations in the market places, and being called rabbi by men. But you are not to be called rabbi, for you have one teacher, and you are all brethren. And call no man your father on earth, for you have one Father, who is in heaven. Neither be called masters, for you have one master, the Christ. He who is greatest among you shall be your servant; whoever exalts himself will be humbled, and whoever humbles himself will be exalted.”
The Gospel of the Lord.
Today’s Reflection
There is no point in struggling to display our goodness and piety as the Pharisees did in the days of Jesus. When we are honest in the way we love God and neighbor, God blesses us in special ways. God brought Ruth out of obscurity into the limelight. Jesus encouraged his followers to be honest in serving God and in relating with others. He rebuked the Pharisees for their hypocrisy in their relationship with God and neighbor. We all have something to learn from the honest love of Ruth in her relationship with her mother in law and in the way she served the true God, whom she discovered through Naomi. Today we celebrate an outstanding saint, Pope Pius X, who emphasized the need to “restore all things in Christ”.
Today’s Saint and Quote: Pope St. Pius X – August 21st
- Holy Communion is the shortest and safest way to Heaven.
Personal Devotional
All you that fear the Lord, wait for him to show you mercy. Do not turn away from Him or you will fall. -Sirach 2:7
- Thank the Lord sincerely for he is interested in the salvation of your soul.
- Reject every form of life that still makes you appear as a hypocrite before the Lord.
Let Us Pray
Lord, may I at all times keep my focus on you so that, like St. Paul, I can be inspired and have the power to stand faithfully to share the good news of your salvation. We pray in the name of the risen Lord Jesus Christ. Amen.
Sunday August 27, 2023
21st Sunday in Ordinary Time A
Vestment: Green
Today’s Rosary: The Glorious Mystery
Theme of the Sunday: Faith in Christ, the Rock On Which the Church is Founded. We find the theme of this Sunday in the gospel: faith in Christ, Son of the living God, is the foundation of the Church. The first reading is but a comment and explains the symbolism of the keys and clarifies how authority should be understood. The second reading can be seen in the light of this theme because it presents the mysterious ways God intervenes in the history of humanity, the way he uses to lead us to discover the identity of Jesus of Nazareth.
Entrance Antiphon cf. Ps 85:1-3
Turn your ear, O Lord, and answer me; save the servant who trusts in you, my God. Have mercy on me, O Lord, for I cry to you all the day long.
Collect
O God, who cause the minds of the faithful to unite in a single purpose, grant your people to love what you command and to desire what you promise, that, amid the uncertainties of this world, our hearts may be fixed on that place where true gladness is found. Through our Lord...
-FIRST READING-
“I place the key of the house of David upon his shoulder.”
A reading from the Book of Isaiah (Isaiah22:19-23)
Thus says the Lord to Shebna, who is over the household: “I will thrust you from your office, and you will be cast down from your station. In that day I will call my servant Eliakim the son of Hilkiah, and I will clothe him with your robe, and will bind your belt on him, and will commit your authority to his hand; and he shall be a father to the inhabitants of Jerusalem and to the house of Judah. And I will place on his shoulder the key of the house of David; he shall open, and none shall shut; and he shall shut, and none shall open. And I will fasten him like a peg in a sure place, and he will become a throne of honour to his father’s house.”
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Ps 138:1-2a.2bcd-3.6 and 8bc (R. 8bc)
R/. O Lord, your merciful love is eternal; Discard not the work of your hands.
I thank you, Lord, with all my heart;
you have heard the words of my mouth.
In the presence of the angels I praise you.
I bow down towards your holy temple. R.
I give thanks to your name
For your merciful love and your faithfulness.
You have exalted your name and your promise over all.
On the day I called, you answered me;
You increased the strength of my soul. R.
The Lord is high, yet he looks on the lowly,
and the haughty he knows from afar.
O Lord, your merciful love is eternal;
discard not the work of your hands. R.
-SECOND READING-
“From him and through him and to him are all things.”
A reading from the Letter of Saint Paul to the Romans (Romans 11:33-36)
O the depth of the riches and wisdom and knowledge of God! How unsearchable are his judgements and how inscrutable his ways! “For who has known the mind of the Lord, or who has been his counsellor?” “Or who has given a gift to him that he might be repaid?” For from him and through him and to him are all things. To him be glory forever. Amen.
The word of the Lord
ALLELUIA Matthew16:18
Alleluia. You are Peter, and on this rock I will build my Church, and the gates of Hades shall not prevail against it. Alleluia.
-GOSPEL-
“You are Peter. I will give you the keys of the kingdom of heaven.”
A reading from the holy Gospel according to Matthew (Matthew 16:13-20)
At that time: When Jesus came into the district of Caesare a Philippi, he asked his disciples, “Who do men say that the Son of man is?” And they said, “Some say John the Baptist, others say Elijah, and others Jeremiah or one of the prophets.” He said to them, “But who do you say that I am?” Simon Peter replied, “You are the Christ, the Son of the living God.” And Jesus answered him “Blessed are you, Simon Bar Jona! For flesh and blood has not revealed this to you, but my Father who is in heaven. And I tell you, you are Peter, and on this rock I will build my Church, and the gates of Hades shall not prevail against it. I will give you the keys of the kingdom of heaven, and whatever you bind on earth shall be bound in heaven, and whatever you loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven.” Then he strictly charged the disciples to tell no one that he was the Christ.
The Gospel of the Lord.
PRAYER OF THE FAITHFUL
Peter and the keys of the kingdom.
PRIEST: Gathered together as a people of faith who believe in the divinity of Jesus Christ and the authority which he gave to his Church, we pray with confidence to God our Father for all the graces which our world needs.
READER:
FOR THE POPE, SUCCESSOR OF ST. PETER, (pause) that he may be always guided by the Holy Spirit so that his answers to the world’s problems are inspired by a deep faith and personal love of the Lord. (pause) Lord, hear our prayer; in the name of your Church we pray Oh Lord.
FOR THOSE IN POSITIONS OF AUTHORITY, (pause) when their faith in God or themselves fails them, that they may turn their faces again to the Lord, and that their faith once more may be firm as a rock. (pause) Lord, hear our prayer; in the name of your Church we pray Oh Lord.
FOR THOSE WHOSE FAITH IS WEAKENING, (pause) that they may hold fast to their love of the Lord, so that, when the storms of doubt have passed, they will stand firm as a rock in their Christian belief. (pause) Lord, hear our prayer; in the name of your Church we pray Oh Lord.
FOR A DEEPENING OF OUR FAITH, (pause) that we may help each other in our daily lives to deepen our personal faith in Christ and his Church, so that all we say and do is based on a living faith. (pause) Lord, hear our prayer; in the name of your Church we pray Oh Lord.
We pray in silence for our own intentions.
PRIEST: Father, hear our prayers of your Church, in which our faith is based as on a rock. Through Christ our Lord. Amen.
Today’s Reflection
Jesus cannot be known according to the categories of the world. True knowledge of Jesus comes only to those whose minds are open to the spirit. Jesus promised to build his church on the strong foundation of Peter’s faith. It is the faith that dispenses the mysteries of the kingdom according to God’s plan. Have you ever wondered what you would do if you were given the opportunity to be God for a day? What would you use the powers and authority of God to do: to support the life of others or to frustrate it? Whoever has been given such and similar tasks must pray to have a heart that is open to mystery. As Jesus told Peter, the mysteries of the kingdom of God are not matters relating to flesh and blood; they are revealed to us only through the spirit of God.
Today's Saint and Quote: St Rose of Lima – August 23rd
Apart from the cross, there is no other ladder by which we may get to heaven.
MONDAY August 28, 2023
Weekday (21)
Vestment: Green
Today’s Rosary: The Joyful Mystery
-FIRST READING-
The beginning of the first Letter of Saint Paul to the Thessalonians (1 Thessalonians 1:1-5.8b-10)
You turned to God from idols, to wait for his Son, whom he raised from the dead.
Paul, Silvanus, and Timothy, to the Church of the Thessalonians in God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ: Grace to you and peace. We give thanks to God always for you all, constantly mentioning you in our prayers, remembering before our God and Father your work of faith and labour of love and steadfastness of hope in our Lord Jesus Christ. For we know, brethren beloved by God, that he has chosen you; for our gospel came to you not only in word, but also in power and in the Holy Spirit and with full conviction. You know what kind of men we proved to be among you for your sake. Your faith in God has gone forth everywhere, so that we need not say anything. For they themselves report concerning us what a welcome we had among you, and how you turned to God from idols, to serve a living and true God, and to wait for his Son from heaven, whom he raised from the dead, Jesus who delivers us from the wrath to come.
The word of the Lord
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Psalm 149:1b-2.3-4.5-6a and 9bc (R. 4a)
R. The Lord takes delight in his people.
Or: Alleluia.
Sing a new song to the LORD,
His praise in the assembly of the faithful.
Let Israel rejoice in its Maker;
Let Sion’s children exult in their king. R.
Let them praise his name with dancing,
And make music with timbrel and harp,
For the LORD takes delight in his people;
He crowns the poor with salvation. R.
Let the faithful exult in glory,
And rejoice as they take their rest.
Let the praise of God be in their mouths
This is an honour for all his faithful. R.
ALLELUIA John 10:27
Alleluia. My sheep hear my voice, says the Lord; and I know them, and they follow me. Alleluia.
-GOSPEL-
A reading from the holy Gospel according to Matthew (Matthew 23:.13-22)
Woe to you, blind guides.
At that time: Jesus said, “Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! Because you shut the kingdom of heaven against men; for you neither enter yourselves, nor allow those who would enter to go in. Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! For you traverse sea and land to make a single proselyte, and when he becomes a proselyte, you make him twice as much a child of hell as yourselves. Woe to you, blind guides, who say, ‘If anyone swears by the temple, it is nothing; but if any one swears by the gold of the temple, he is bound by his oath.’ You blind fools! For which is greater, the gold or the temple that has made the gold sacred? And you say, ‘If anyone swears by the altar, it is nothing; but if anyone swears by the gift that is on the altar, he is bound by his oath.’ You blind men! For which is greater, the gift or the altar that makes the gift sacred? So he who swears by the altar, swears by it and by everything on it; and he who swears by the temple, swears by it and by him who dwells in it; and he who swears by heaven, swears by the throne of God and by him who sits up on it.
The Gospel of the Lord.
Today's Reflection
One would be amazed to reflect on the influence and power we can have over people what we say and what we do can influence others, be it for better or for worse. Today’s Gospel gives an example of how others can be adversely affected by our bad influence. Jesus says to the scribes and Pharisees: “You shut up the kingdom of heaven against men; for you neither enter yourselves, nor allow those who would enter go in.” those are very grace and shocking words, but nonetheless it shows the reality of the devastating power and influence that we can have over others. But, on the other hand, we are also capable of influencing others to rise above the difficulties of this world and to reach for heaven.
TUESDAY August 29, 2023
Weekday (21)
Vestment: White
Today’s Rosary: The Sorrowful Mystery
-FIRST READING-
A reading from the first Letter of Saint Paul to the Thessalonians (1 Thessalonians 2:1-8)
We were ready to share with you not only the Gospel of God but also our own selves.
You yourselves know, brethren, that our visit to you was not in vain; but though we had already suffered and been shamefully treated at Philippi, as you know, we had courage in our God to declare to you the gospel of God in the face of great opposition. For our appeal does not spring from error or uncleanness, nor is it made with guile; but just as we have been approved by God to be entrusted with the gospel, so we speak, not to please men, but to please God who tests our hearts. For we never used either words of flattery, as you know, or a cloak for greed, as God is witness; nor did we seek glory from men, whether from you or from others, though we might have made demands as apostles of Christ. But we were gentle among you, like a nurse taking care of her children. So, being affectionately desirous of you, we were ready to share with you not only the gospel of God but also our own selves, because you had become very dear to us.
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Psalm139:1-3.4-6(R.1)
R. O Lord, you search me and you know me.
O Lord, you search me and you know me.
You yourself know my resting and my rising;
you discern my thoughts from afar.
You mark when I walk or lie down;
You know all my ways through and through. R.
Before ever a word is on my tongue,
You know it, O Lord, through and through.
Behind and before, you besiege me,
Your hand ever laid upon me.
Too wonderful for me, this knowledge;
too high, beyond my reach. R.
ALLELUIA Hebrews 4:12
Alleluia. The word of the Lord is living and active discerning the thoughts and intentions of the heart. Alleluia.
-GOSPEL-
A reading from the holy Gospel according to Matthew (Matthew 23 :23-26)
These you ought to have done, without neglecting the others.
At that time: Jesus said, “Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! For you tithe mint and dill and cummin, and have neglected the weightier matters of the law, justice and mercy and faith; these you ought to have done, without neglecting the others. You blind guides, straining out a gnat and swallowing a camel! Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! For you cleanse the outside of the cup and of the plate, but inside they are full of extortion and rapacity. You blind Pharisee! First cleanse the inside of the cup and of the plate, that the outside also may be clean.
The Gospel of the Lord.
St Monica – August 27th
Nothing is far from God.
Today's Reflection
Jesus touches on two issues relevant to our Christian living today. First, he attacks the mentality of those who have serious beliefs on tiny details of doctrine while ignoring the fundamental issues of justice, compassion and good faith. Then he corrects those who concentrate on every detail of external behaviour while totally ignoring the inner spirit. What is striking about these people is the almost total absence of a sense of love and compassion in their actions. On the outside their behaviour is impeccable, but inside there is a total lack of a true Gospel spirit. The two attitudes are closely related and all of us can be touched by them in one way or another. Let him who has never condemned cast the first stone!
WEDNESDAY 30th August 2023
Weekday (21)
Vestment: White
Today’s Rosary: Glorious Mystery
-FIRST READING-
A reading from the first Letter of Saint Paul to the Thessalonians (I Thessalonians 2:9-13)
“We worked night and day, while we preached to you the Gospel of God.”
You remember our labour and toil, brethren; we worked night and day, that we might not burden any of you, while we preached to you the gospel of God. You are witnesses, and God also, how holy and righteous and blameless was our behaviour to you believers; for you know how, like a father with his children, we exhorted each one of you and encouraged you and charged you to walk in a manner worthy of God, who calls you into his own kingdom and glory. And we also thank God constantly for this, that when you received the word of God which you heard from us, you accepted it not as the word of men but as what it really is, the word of God, which is at work in you believers.
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Psalm 139:7-8.9-10. I 1-12ab (R. 1)
R. O Lord, you search me and you know me.
O where can I go from your spirit,
or where can I flee from your face?
If I climb the heavens, you are there.
If I lie in the grave, you are there. R.
If I take the wings of the dawn
or dwell at the sea’s furthest end,
even there your hand would lead me;
your right hand would hold me fast. R.
If I say, “Let the darkness hide me
and the light around me be night,”
even darkness is not dark to you,
the night shall be as bright as day. R.
ALLELLUA 1 John 2:5
Alleluia. Whoever keeps Christ’s word, in him truly love for God is perfected. Alleluia.
-GOSPEL-
A reading from the holy Gospel according to Matthew (Matthew 23 :27-32)
“You are sons of those who murdered the prophets.”
At that time: Jesus said, “Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! for you are like whitewashed tombs, which outwardly appear beautiful, but within they are full of dead men’s bones and all uncleanness. So you also outwardly appear righteous to men, but within you are full of hypocrisy and iniquity. Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! for you build the tombs of the prophets and adorn the monuments of the righteous, saying, ‘If we had lived in the days of our fathers, we would not have taken part with them in shedding the blood of the prophets.’ Thus you witness against yourselves, that you are sons of those who murdered the prophets. Fill up, then, the measure of your fathers.”
The Gospel of the Lord.
Today's Saint and Quote
St Augustine of Hippo – August 28th
- You aspire to great things? Begin with little ones.
- This is the very perfection of a man, to find out his own imperfections.
- Our hearts were made for You, O Lord, and they are restless until they rest in you.
- Complete abstinence is easier than perfect moderation.
- Pray as though everything depended on God. Work as though everything depended on you.
- And He departed from our sight that we might return to our heart, and there find Him. For He departed, and behold, He is here.
- If you believe what you like in the gospels, and reject what you don’t like, it is not the gospel you believe, but yourself
- Miracles are not contrary to nature, but only contrary to what we know about nature.
- The confession of evil works is the first beginning of good works.
- Patience is the companion of wisdom.
Today's Reflection
Surely there are some quite different styles of parenting. Today, Jesus tells the scribes and Pharisees that they are doing exactly what their fathers have done in the past – they shed the blood of the prophets. Certainly that is not a very positive image of fatherhood. But them Paul gives a better view of parenthood. He tells the Thessalonians that he has worked hard for them, and treated them right and fairly, just as a good father would treat his children. A good father would teach his children what is right. And that is not just about fathers; any good teacher, superior, manager, leader is called to do likewise. For every Christian, one of the spiritual works of mercy is to instruct the ignorant.
Thursday August 31, 2023
Weekday (21).
Vestment: Green
Today’s Rosary: The Luminous Mystery
-FIRST READING-
“May the Lord make you increase and abound in love to one another and to all men.”
A reading from the first Letter of Saint Paul to the Thessalonians (1Thessalonians 3:7-13).
Brethren, in all our distress and affliction we have been comforted about you through your faith; for now we live, if you stand fast in the Lord. For what thanksgiving can we render to God for you, for all the joy which we feel for your sake before our God, praying earnestly night and day that we may see you face to face and supply what is lacking in your faith? Now may our God and Father himself, and our Lord Jesus, direct our way to you; and may the Lord make you increase and abound in love to one another and to all men, as we do to you, so that he may establish your hearts unblamable in holiness before our God and Father, at the coming of our Lord Jesus with all his saints.
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Psalm90:3-4.12-13.14 and 17 (R. 14).
R. Fill us with your merciful love, O Lord, and we shall exult.
You turn man back to dust,
And say, “Return, O children of men.”
To your eyes a thousand years
are like yesterday, come and gone,
or like a watch in the night. R.
Then teach us to number our days,
That we may gain wisdom of heart.
Turn back, O Lord! How long?
Show pity to your servants. R.
R. Fill us with your merciful love, O Lord, and we shall exult.
At dawn, fill us with your merciful love;
we shall exult and rejoice all our days.
Let the favour of the Lord our God be upon us;
give success to the work of our hands.
O give success to the work of our hands. R.
ALLELUIA Matthew 24:42a.44
Alleluia. Watch, therefore, and be ready; the Son of man is coming at an hour you do not expect. Alleluia.
-GOSPEL-
“Be ready.”
A reading from the holy Gospel according to Matthew (Matthew 24:42-51).
At that time: Jesus said to his disciples, “Watch, for you do not know on what day your Lord is coming. But know this, that if the householder had known in what part of the night the thief was coming, he would have watched and would not have let his house be broken into. Therefore you also must be ready; for the Son of man is coming at an hour you do not expect. “Who then is the faithful and wise servant, whom his master has set over his household, to give them their food at the proper time? Blessed is that servant whom his master when he comes will find so doing. Truly, I say to you, he will set him over all his possessions. But if that wicked servant says to himself, ‘My master is delayed,’ and begins to beat his fellow servants, and eats and drinks with the drunken; the master of that servant will come on a day when he does not expect him and at an hour he does not know, and will punish him, and put him with the hypocrites; there men will weep and gnash their teeth.”
The Gospel of the Lord.
Today’s Reflection
Our world is full of false prophets; so often these false prophets predict the end of the world. From the 1970s to the 1990s there were sundry prophecies that the world would come to an end in the year 2000, and shortly after the year 2000, some other prophets predicted 2010 to be the end of the world. In all generations people raise questions on when the end of the world will be. Jesus advised us to “be ready” for his second coming. The best way to be ready and stand prepared is to be committed and faithful to serving God and in doing his will. As we make efforts to be ready, St Paul prays for us to remain “unblamable in holiness before God our Father.”
Personal Devotional
Sing with us, “into my life 2x, come into my life, Lord Jesus, come into stay…”
-Tell Jesus about the heavy loads crushing you.
-Ask for mercy for the times you took your troubles to other gods.
-Invite Jesus into your life and family.
Let Us Pray
MAKE THE FOLLOWING DECLARATION, “away from me Satan! For I will worship the Lord my God and serve him only. Get behind me Satan for you no longer have dominion over me. You can no longer constitute a stumbling block to me and my enterprise.
My Lord has given me authority to trample on snakes and scorpions and overcome all the powers of the enemy. Nothing will harm me. (Luke 10:19) My Lord has given me the boldness, courage and spiritual strength to stand against you Satan, today. Glory be to His name. Amen.
FRIDAY 1st September 2023
Weekday (21)
Vestment: Green
Today’s Rosary: Sorrowful Mystery
-FIRST READING-
A reading from the first Letter of Saint Paul to the Thessalonians (1 Thessalonians 4: 1-8)
“This is the will of God, your sanctification.”
Brethren, we beg and exhort you in the Lord Jesus, that as you learned from us how you ought to walk and to please God, just as you are doing, you do so more and more. For you know what instructions we gave you through the Lord Jesus. For this is the will of God, your sanctification: that you abstain from immorality; that each one of you know how to control his own body in holiness and honour, not in the passion of lust like heathens who do not know God; that no man transgress, and wrong his brother in this matter, because the Lord is an avenger in all these things, as we solemnly forewarned you. For God has not called us for uncleanness, but in holiness. Therefore whoever disregards this, disregards not man but God, who gives his Holy Spirit to you.
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Psalm 97: I and 2b.5-6. 10. l 1- 12 (R. 12a)
R. Rejoice in the Lord, you just.
The Lord is king, let earth rejoice;
let the many islands be glad.
Justice and right are the foundation of his throne. R.
The mountains melt like wax
before the face of the Lord,
before the face of the Lord of all the earth.
The skies proclaim his justice;
all peoples see his glory, R.
The Lord loves those who hate evil;
he guards the souls of his faithful;
he sets them free from the wicked. R.
Light shines forth for the just one,
and joy for the upright of heart.
Rejoice in the Lord, you just;
to the memory of his holiness give thanks. R.
ALLELUIA Luke 21 :36
Alleluia. Watch at all times, praying that you may be able to stand before the Son of man. Alleluia.
-GOSPEL-
A reading from the holy Gospel according to Matthew (Matthew 25:1-13)
“Behold, the bridegroom! Come out to meet him.”
At that time: Jesus told his disciples this parable: “The kingdom of heaven shall be compared to ten maidens who took their lamps and went to meet the bridegroom. Five of them were foolish, and five were wise. For when the foolish took their lamps, they took no oil with them, but the wise took flasks of oil with their lamps. “As the bridegroom was delayed, they all slumbered and slept. But at midnight there was a cry, ‘Behold, the bridegroom! Come out to meet him.’ “Then all those maidens rose and trimmed their lamps. And the foolish said to the wise,' Give us some of your oil, for our lamps are going out.’ But the wise replied, ‘Perhaps there will not be enough for us and for you; go rather to the dealers and buy for yourselves.’ “And while they went to buy, the bridegroom came, and those who were ready went in with him to the marriage feast; and the door was shut. Afterward the other maidens came also, saying, ‘Lord, lord, open to us.’ “But he replied, ‘Truly, I say to you, I do not know you. ’ “Watch therefore, for you know neither the day nor the hour.”
The Gospel of the Lord.
Today's Reflection
In the first reading, Paul is not out to say anything offensive to the Thessalonians when he says “fornication” and “selfish lust” are wrong. Among other things, God made us as sexual beings, but sex is a holy act only in the sanctity of marriage. And whenever we forget this, we will turn to immorality and give in to lust that will destroy relationships. Like the five wise bridesmaids in the Gospel parable, let us keep the fire of holiness burning bright in our lives. It would be foolish to let this fire burn out for lack of prayer. Because, when the fire of God’s love is quenched by our carelessness, then the fire of lust and immorality will arise and destroy us.
SATURDAY September 2, 2023
Weekday (21)
Vestment: White
Today’s Rosary: The Joyful Mystery
B. V. M on Saturday
-FIRST READING-
A reading from the first Letter of Saint Paul to the Thessalonians (1 Thessalonians 4:9-11)
You yourselves have been taught by God to love one another.
Brethren: Concerning love of the brethren you have no need to have any one write to you, for you yourselves have been taught by God to love one another; and indeed you do love all the brethren throughout Macedonia. But we exhort you, brethren, to do so more and more, to aspire to live quietly, to mind your own affairs, and to work with your hands, as we charged you.
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Psalm 98:1.7-8.9(R.see9)
R. The Lord comes to judge the peoples with fairness.
O sing a new song to the Lord,
for he has worked wonders.
His right hand and his holy arm
have brought salvation. R.
Let the sea and all within it thunder;
the world, and those who dwell in it.
Let the rivers clap their hands,
And the hills ring out their joy. R.
At the presence of the Lord, for he comes,
he comes to judge the earth.
He will judge the world with justice,
and the peoples with fairness. R
ALLELUIA John 13:34
Alleluia. A new commandment I give to you, says the Lord, that you love one another, even as I have loved you. Alleluia.
-GOSPEL-
A reading from the holy Gospel according to Matthew (Matthew 25:14-30)
You have been faithful over a little, enter into the joy of your master.
At that time: Jesus told his disciples this parable: “It will be as when a man going on a journey called his servants and entrusted to them his property; to one he gave five talents, to another two, to another one, to each according to his ability. Then he went away. He who had received the five talents went at once and traded with them; and he made five talents more. So also, he who had the two talents made two talents more. But he who had received the one talent went and dug in the ground and hid his master’s money. “Now after a long time the master of those servants came and settled accounts with them. And he who had received the five talents came forward, bringing five talents more, saying, ‘Master, you delivered to me five talents; here I have made five talents more. ’His master said to him, ‘Well done, good and faithful servant; you have been faithful over a little, I will set you over much; enter into the joy of your master.’ And he also who had the two talents came forward, saying, ‘Master, you delivered to me two talents; here I have made two talents more.’ His master said to him, ‘Well done, good and faithful servant; you have been faithful over a little, I will set you over much; enter into the joy of your master.’ “He also who had received the one talent came forward, saying, ‘Master, I knew you to be a hard man, reaping where you did not sow, and gathering where you did not winnow; so I was afraid, and I went and hid your talent in the ground. Here you have what is yours.’ But his master answered him, ‘You wicked and slothful servant! You knew that I reap where I have not sowed, and gather where I have not winnowed? Then you ought to have invested my money with the bankers, and at my coming I should have received what was my own with interest. So take the talent from him, and give it to him who has the ten talents. For to every one who has will more be given, and he will have abundance; but from him who has not, even what he has will be taken away. And cast the worthless servant into the outer darkness, where there will be weeping and quashing of teeth.
The Gospel of the Lord.
Today's Reflection
The servant who buried his one talent in the ground was called “wicked and lazy” by his master. We may think that the master was rather harsh with his words. But it is a reminder for us who are servants of God that we must labour in the field of love and bear fruit for the Lord, as Paul reminded the Thessalonians in the 1st reading. not to struggle and labour for love of God and neighbour would mean that we slowly dry up and waste away the talent that God gave us.
Sunday September 03, 2023
22nd Sunday
Vestment: Green
Today’s Rosary: The Glorious Mystery
Theme of the Sunday: Seduced by Christ. In the first reading Jeremiah complains that God has seduced him. He was convinced that following God would lead him to success and an easy life; instead he ended up as what seemed a total failure. In the gospel we see that Peter thinks like Jeremiah and does not accept a suffering, defeated Messiah. Jesus spells out conditions for those who follow him, so that nobody will be able to say they were seduced with flattery or false promises. The second reading is very close to this theme. It invites us not to go along with the way everybody else thinks. Other people may not find the life of a Christian acceptable.
Entrance Antiphon cf. Ps 85:3.5
Have mercy on me, O Lord, for I cry to you all the day long. O Lord, you are good and forgiving, full of mercy to all who call to you.
Collect
God of might, giver of every good gift, put into our hearts the love of your name, so that by deepening our sense of reverence, you may nurture in us what is good and, by your watchful care, keep safe what you have nurtured. Through our Lord...
-FIRST READING-
“The word of the Lord has become a reproach for me.”
A reading from the Book of Jeremiah (Jeremiah 20:7-9)
O Lord, you have deceived me, and I was deceived; you are stronger than I, and you have prevailed. I have become a laughing stock all the day; every one mocks me. For whenever I speak, I cry out, I shout, “Violence and destruction!” For the word of the Lord has become for me a reproach and derision all day long. If I say, “I will not mention him, or speak any more in his name,” there is in my heart as it were a burning fire shut up in my bones, and I am weary with holding it in, and I cannot.
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Psalm 63:2.3-4.5-6.8—9 (R. cf.2ab)
R/. For you my soul is thirsting, O Lord, my God.
O God, you are my God; at dawn I seek you;
For you my soul is thirsting.
For you my flesh is pining,
Like a dry, weary land without water. R.
I have come before you in the sanctuary,
to behold your strength and your glory.
Your loving mercy is better than life;
my lips will speak your praise. R.
I will bless you all my life;
In your name I will lift up my hands.
My soul shall be filled as with a banquet;
With joyful lips, my mouth shall praise you. R.
For you have been my strength;
In the shadow of your wings I rejoice.
My soul clings fast to you;
Your right hand upholds me. R.
-SECOND READING-
“Present your bodies as a living sacrifice.”
A reading from the Letter of Saint Paul to the Romans (Romans 12:1-2)
I appeal to you, brethren, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God, which is your spiritual worship. Do not be conformed to this world but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that you may prove what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect.
The word of the Lord.
ALLELUIA Ephesians 1:17-18
Alleluia. May the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ enlighten the eyes of our hearts that we might know what is the hope to which he has called us. Alleluia.
-GOSPEL-
“If any man would come after me, let him deny himself.”
A reading from the holy Gospel according to Matthew (Matthew 16:21-27)
At that time: Jesus began to show his disciples that he must go to Jerusalem and suffer many things from the elders and chief priests and scribes, and be killed, and on the third day be raised. And Peter took him and began to rebuke him, saying, “God forbid, Lord! This shall never happen to you.” But he turned and said to Peter, “Get behind me, Satan! You are a hindrance to me; for you are not on the side of God, but of men.” Then Jesus told his disciples, “If any man would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross and follow me. For whoever would save his life will lose it, and who ever loses his life for my sake will find it. For what will it profit a man, if he gains the whole world and forfeits his life? Or what shall a man give in return for his life? For the Son of man is to come with his angels in the glory of his Father, and then he will repay every man for what he has done.”
The Gospel of the Lord
PRAYER OF THE FAITHFUL
Take up your daily cross.
PRIEST: My brothers and sisters, Jesus Christ has called us to be his disciples, And to take up our cross daily to follow him Let us ask God our Father for all the graces which such a discipleship demands.
READER:
FOR THOSE IN THE CHURCH WHO SUFFER FOR THEIR FAITH, (pause) may they unite their trials and persecutions with the passion of their Lord and Saviour, and be witnesses to the world that the power of faith overcomes the pain of suffering. (pause) Lord, hear our prayer; as we follow you daily we pray Oh Lord.
FOR LEADERS OF CHRISTIAN MOVEMENTS IN HOSTILE, ATHEISTIC NATIONS, (pause) may the experience deep inner peace of soul and a clear testimony of conscience in order to live out their discipleship of Christ. (pause) Lord, hear our prayer; as we follow you daily we pray Oh Lord.
FOR THOSE WHO ARE CONFINED TO BED BECAUSE OF ILLNESS, (pause) may they see their confinement to a sick room as a sharing with Jesus nailed to a cross, and may their thoughts be centred on him in the glory of his resurrection. (Pause) Lord, hear our prayer; as we follow you daily we pray Oh Lord.
FOR THOSE WHO FIND IT DIFFICULT TO BE CHRISTIAN, (pause) may all those who share deep friendships, whether in marriage or in other close bonds, with someone who is hostile to their beliefs, be strong in faith, and live in peace. (pause)
Lord, hear our prayer; as we follow you daily we pray Oh Lord.
In silence of our hearts, we make our private petitions.
PRIEST: Father, in this vale of tears, we make our prayers to you who are our strength and joy, that we may always follow you
Through Christ our Lord. Amen.
Today’s Reflection
God’s promises are attractive; we long for his blessings; we are amazed at the wonders he works in our midst. The utmost desire of every person is to be protected and helped by the power of God. We always wish to be accompanied by the strong support of God for our life on earth and we reject the idea that God could be weak. Peter rejected the idea of a weak, suffering, powerless messiah. Jesus rebuked him and brought him to rethink his concept of power. God cannot be defined according to worldy categories and standards. A mind-set no matter how sincere, if it is worldly, will certainly lead to the rejection of occasions for cross bearing.
Personal Devotional
For by the blood of Christ we are set free, that is, our sins are forgiven. How great is the grace of God. Ephesians 1:7
- O Lord I beseech you, to grant me the grace needed never to be comfortable with sin and everything that appeals to carnality in the name of Jesus the Lord.
-O Lord God of mercy, extend your mercy and compassion on all abuses of your grace. Make them to understand what grace actually means in Jesus name.
Let Us Pray
Father, I am sincerely sorry for wasting the grace made available to me each time I am accosted or confronted by evil or sin. By the help of your grace and from this day forward, I receive strength not to overlook the grace made available to me in Jesus name.
MONDAY September 4, 2023
Weekday (22)
Vestment: Green
Today’s Rosary: The Joyful Mystery
-FIRST READING-
A reading from the first Letter of saint Paul to the Thessalonians (1Thessalonians4:13-18)
“God will bring with him those who have fallen asleep”
We would not have you ignorant, brethren, concerning those who are asleep, that you may not grieve as others do who have no hope. For since we believe that Jesus died and rose again, even so, through Jesus, God will bring with him those who have fallen asleep. For this we declare to you by the word of the Lord, that we who are alive, who are left until the coming of the Lord, shall not precede those who have fallen asleep. For the Lord himself will descend from heaven with a cry of command, with the archangel’s call, and with the sound of the trumpet of God. And the dead in Christ will rise first; then we who are alive, who are left, shall be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air; and so we shall always be with the Lord. Therefore comfort one another with these words.
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Psalm 96:1and 3.4-5.11-12.13 (R. 13b)
R/. The Lord comes to judge the earth.
O sing a new song to the Lord;
sing to the Lord, all the earth.
Tell among the nations his glory,
And his wonders among all the peoples. R/.
For the Lord is great and highly to be praised,
To be feared above all gods.
For the gods of the nations are naught.
It was the Lord who made the heavens. R/.
R/. The Lord comes to judge the earth.
Let the heavens rejoice and earth be glad;
Let the sea and all within it thunder praise.
Let the land and all it bears rejoice. R/.
Then will all the trees of the wood shout for joy.
At the presence of the Lord, for he comes,
He comes to judge the earth.
He will judge the world with justice;
He will govern the peoples with his truth. R/.
ALLELUIA Luke 4:18
Alleluia. The Spirit of the Lord is upon me; he has sent me to preach good news to the poor. Alleluia.
-GOSPEL-
A reading from the holy Gospel according to Luke (Luke4:16 - 30)
“He has sent me to preach good news to the poor. No prophet is acceptable in his own country.”
At that time: Jesus came to Nazareth, where he had been brought up; and he went to the synagogue, as was his custom, on the sabbath day. And he stood up to read; and there was given to him the Book of the Prophet Isaiah. He opened the book and found the place where it was written, “The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because he has anointed me to preach good news to the poor. He has sent me to proclaim release to the captives and recovering of sight to the blind, to set at liberty those who are oppressed, to proclaim the acceptable year of the Lord.” And he closed the book, and gave it back to the attendant, and sat down; and the eyes of all in the synagogue were fixed on him. And he began to say to them, “Today this Scripture has been fulfilled in your hearing.” And all spoke well of him, and wondered at the gracious words which proceeded out of his mouth; and they said, “Is not this Joseph’s son?” And he said to them, “Doubtless you will quote to me this proverb, ‘Physician, heal yourself; what we have heard you did at Capernaum, do here also in your own country.”’ And he said, “Truly, I say to you, no prophet is acceptable in his own country. But in truth, I tell you, there were many widows in Israel in the days of Elijah, when the heaven was shut up three years and six months, when there came a great famine over all the land; and Elijah was sent to none of them but only to Zarephath, in the land of Sidon to a woman who was a widow. And there were many lepers in Israel in the time of the prophet Elisha; and none of them was cleansed, but only Naaman the Syrian.” When they heard this, all in the synagogue were filled with wrath. And they rose up and put him out of the city, and led him to the brow of the hill on which their city was built, that they might throw him down headlong. But passing through the midst of them he went away.
The Gospel of the Lord.
Today’s Reflection
The people wonder at the gracious words that proceed from Jesus’ lips as he reads out a passage from Isaiah in the synagogue. Jesus’ very presence is the fulfillment of that prophecy. He is that liberator, that saviour who is anointed and sent by the Father for the redemption of the world. He will preach the Gospel to the poor, forgive and heal the contrite of heart, and deliver the captives … however, the same people who “wonder at the gracious words” and “whose eyes are fixed on him” are later “filled with anger towards him. His humble origin and missionary plan of human liberation do not fit into their idea of a saviour. The reality is that Jesus saves through humble service and painful suffering.
Personal Devotional
The Lord is my protector; he is my fortress. My God is my protection, and with him I am safe. He protects me like a shield; he defends me and keeps me safe. He is my savior; he protects me and saves me from violence. I call to the Lord, and he saves me from my enemies. Praise the Lord! 2 Samuel 2-4
-Ask for God’s mercy for the times you have betrayed the gospel through your actions.
-Lord God, fill me with your grace, mercy, and peace. Let it overflow to others in my words and deeds so that people will praise you. In Jesus name. Amen.
Let Us Pray
Father of mercy and inexhaustible compassion grant members of your body the church-the grace of charitable hearts, in Jesus name. Amen.
Join us in the Miraculous 54 Day Rosary Novena from Sunday 8 September to Thursday 31st October 2023.
Traditionally a novena is nine days. Thus, Our Lady's words to young Fortuna — “Make three novenas of the prayers of the Rosary in petition, and three novenas in thanksgiving.” The novena consists of five decades of the Rosary (one set of mysteries) each day for twenty-seven days in petition; then immediately five decades each day for an additional twenty-seven days in thanksgiving, regardless of whether or not the request has been granted yet. So began six novenas of Rosaries — which became known as the 54-day Rosary Novena.
To do the novena properly — one must pray the Rosary for 54 consecutive days, without missing a day, and must pray the particular Mystery indicated for that day following the correct sequence. That is, the first day of the novena always begins with the Joyful Mysteries (regardless of what day of the week the novena is started); the second day, the Sorrowful Mysteries are prayed; and the third day of the novena, the Glorious Mysteries are prayed.
People have asked over time about the Luminous Mysteries — this novena was given by Our Lady as noted above in 1884 and only allows for the Joyful, Sorrowful and Glorious Mysteries.
May the Lord grant you the strength to complete the Novena in Jesus name Amen.
TUESDAY September 5, 2023
Weekday (22)
Vestment: White
Today’s Rosary: The Sorrowful Mystery
-FIRST READING-
A reading from the first Letter of Saint Paul to the Thessalonians (1Thessalonians5:1-6.9-11)
“He died for us so that we might live with him.”
As to the times and the seasons, brethren, you have no need to have anything written to you. For you yourselves know well that the day of the Lord will come like a thief in the night. When people say, “There is peace and security,” then you are not in darkness, brethren, for that to surprise you like a thief. For you are all sons of light and sons of the day; we are not of the night or of darkness. So then let us not sleep, as others do, but let us keep awake and be sober. For God has not destined us for wrath, but to obtain salvation through our Lord Jesus Christ, who died for us so that whether we wake or sleep we might live with him. Therefore encourage one another and build one another up, just as you are doing.
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSLAM Ps27:1.4.13-14 (R.13)
R/. I believe I shall see the Lord’s goodness in the land of the living.
The Lord is my light and my salvation;
Whom shall I fear?
The Lord is the stronghold of my life;
Whom should I dread? R/.
There is one thing I ask of the Lord,
Only this do I seek:
To live in the house of the Lord
All the days of my life,
To gaze on the beauty of the Lord,
To inquire at his temple. R/.
I believe I shall see the Lord’s goodness
In the land of the living.
Wait for the Lord; be strong;
Be stouthearted, and wait for the Lord! R/.
ALLELUIA Luke 7:16
Alleluia. A great prophet has risen among us, and God has visited his people. Alleluia.
-GOSPEL-
A reading from the holy Gospel according to Luke (Luke4:31-37)
“I know who you are, the Holy One of God.”
At that time: Jesus went down to Capernaum, a city of Galilee. And he was teaching them on the sabbath; and they were astonished at his teaching, for his word was with authority. And in the synagogue there was a man who had the spirit of an unclean demon; and he cried out with a loud voice, “Ah! What have you to do with us, Jesus of Nazareth? Have you come to destroy us? I know who you are, the Holy One of God.” But Jesus rebuked him, saying, “Be silent, and come out of him!” And when the demon had thrown him down in their midst, he came out of him, having done him no harm. And they were all amazed and said to one another, “What is this word? For with authority and power he commands the unclean spirits, and they come out.” And reports of him went out into every place in the surrounding region.
The Gospel of the Lord.
Today’s Reflection
Jesus’ presence and his words carry an exceptional authority: it stems from his divinity as the Son of God. Even the demons recognize and tremble at his authority. But he uses his authority not for name, fame or popularity, nor for oppressing or ruling over others. For Jesus, authority is for service and liberation. He uses his authority to liberate people from their sinful attachments and evil possessions; to bring back the oppressed to the freedom and joy of the children of God. Jesus’ own life is a model for all those entrusted with authority of various degrees, both in civil and religious spheres.
Personal Devotional
When you give something to a needy person, do not make a big show out of it, as the hypocrites do in the houses of worship and on the street,… when you help a needy person; do it in such a way that even your closest friend will not know about it…….. Matthew 6:2,3
-Pray for mercy for the times you have sought self-glorification in charitable deeds.
-Pray for forgiveness for the times you failed to show love to your neighbour.
-Tell God to show you a need in someone’s life that He wants you to help out with.
-Tell God to enlarge your heart to love more and more people irrespective of their background.
Let Us Pray
O God of infinite love and mercy, help me to live the life full of sincere love for you and my neighbour. Let my life reflect indeed that you are love.
WEDNESDAY September 6, 2023
Weekday (22)
Vestment: Green
Today’s Rosary: The Glorious Mystery
-FIRST READING-
The beginning of the Letter of Saint Paul to the Colossians (Colossians1:1-8)
“The word of the truth has come to you, as indeed in the whole world.”
Paul, an apostle of Christ Jesus by the will of God, and Timothy our brother, to the saints and faithful brethren in Christ at Colosae: Grace to you and peace from God our Father. We always thank God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, when we pray for you, because we have heard of your. Faith in Christ Jesus and of the love which you have for all the saints, because of the hope laid up for you in heaven. Of this you have heard before in the word of the truth, the gospel which has come to you, as indeed in the whole world it is bearing fruit and growing—so among yourselves, from the day you heard and understood the grace of God in truth, as you learnt it from Epaphras our beloved fellow servant. He is a faithful minister of Christ on our behalf and has made known to us your love in the Spirit.
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Psalm52:10.11(R.10cd)
R/. I trust in the mercy of God forever and ever.
I am like a growing olive tree
in the house of God.
I trust in the mercy of God,
forever and ever. R/.
I will thank you forever more,
for this is your doing.
I will hope in your name, for it is good,
In the presence of your faithful. R/.
ALLELUIA Luke 4:18
Alleluia. The Lord has sent me to preach good news to the poor, to proclaim release to the captives. Alleluia.
-GOSPEL-
A reading from the holy Gospel according to Luke (Luke 4:38-44)
“I must preach the good news to the other cities also, for I was sent for this purpose.”
At that time: Jesus arose and left the synagogue, and entered Simon’s house. Now Simon’s mother-in-law was ill with a high fever, and they asked him about her. And he stood over her and rebuked the fever, and it left her; and immediately she rose and served them. Now when the sun was setting, all those who had any that were sick with various diseases brought them to him; and he laid his hands on every one of them and healed them. And demons also came out of many, crying, “You are the Son of God!” But he rebuked them, and would not allow them to speak, because they knew that he was the Christ. And when it was day he departed and went into a lonely place. And the people sought him and came to him, and would have kept him from leaving them; but he said to them, “I must preach the good news of the kingdom of God to the other cities also; for I was sent for this purpose.” And he was preaching in the synagogues of Judea.
The Gospel of the Lord.
Today’s Reflection
Jesus shows his compassion and concern for Simon’s mother-in-law, who is ill with a high fever. Having healed her, he continues his ministry of preaching and healing, not only in the surrounding regions of Galilee, but even other cities. His ministry is reinforced and recharged by his personal communion with his father as he goes to spend time in a “lonely place”. In Jesus, we can find our comfort and succour, strength and courage live our Christian life in today’s competitive, busy and noisy world. He brings solace to our body, mind and spirit. He is the compassionate saviour who makes himself available in our weariness and weakness. We need to find the time and place for our personal communion with him. And, having experienced the joy of healing and freedom, we too, like Simon’s mother-in-law, need to engage ourselves in service
Personal Devotional
-Pray for the grace to have a forgiving heart no matter the offence.
-In prayer call the names of those whom you have tied down through non forgiveness, and from your heart, pronounce their forgiveness.
-Pray for those you may have hurt that God will soften and heal their heart.
Let Us Pray
O Father, God of mercy and power, grant me the grace to be a source of joy of people around me. May my life bring glory to your holy name at all times. Give me the grace, Holy Father, to avoid sin and all occasions of sin. Make me thirst for holiness of life through the study of your word and practice of generosity to the church and the less privileged. Like the deer thirsts for water, so my soul thirsts for you O Lord.
Thursday September 7, 2023
Weekday (22)
Vestment: Green
Today’s Rosary: The Luminous Mystery
-FIRST READING-
A reading from the Letter of Saint Paul to the Colossians (Colossians 1:9-14)
“He has delivered us from the dominion of darkness and transferred us to the kingdom of his beloved Son”
Brethren: From the day we heard of [your love in the Spirit,] we have not ceased to pray for you, asking that you may be filled with the knowledge of his will in all spiritual wisdom and understanding, to lead a life worthy of the Lord, fully pleasing to him, bearing fruit in every good work and increasing in the knowledge of God. May you be strengthened with all power, according to his glorious might, for all endurance and patience with joy, giving thanks to the Father, who has qualified us to share in the inheritance of the saints in light. He has delivered us from the dominion of darkness and transferred us to the kingdom of his beloved Son, in whom we have redemption, the forgiveness of sins.
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Psalm98:2-3ab.3cd-4.5-6 (R.2a)
R/. The Lord has made known his salvation.
The Lord has made known his salvation,
Has shown his deliverance to the nations.
He has remembered his merciful love
And his truth for the house of Israel. R/.
All the ends of the earth have seen
the salvation of our God.
Shout to the Lord, all the earth;
break forth into joyous song,
and sing out your praise. R/.
R/. The Lord has made known his salvation.
Sing psalms to the Lord with the harp,
with the harp and the sound of song.
With trumpets and the sound of the horn,
Raise a shout before the King, the Lord. R/.
ALLELUIA Matthew 4:19
Alleluia. Follow me, says the Lord, and I will make you fishers of men. Alleluia.
-GOSPEL-
A reading from the holy Gospel according to Luke (Luke 5:1-11)
”They left everything and followed him.”
At that time: While the people pressed upon Jesus to hear the word of God, he was standing by the lake of Gennesaret. And he saw two boats by the lake; but the fishermen had gone out of them and were washing their nets. Getting into one of the boats, which was Simon’s, he asked him to put out a little from the land. And he sat down and taught the people from the boat. And when he had ceased speaking, he said to Simon, “Put out into the deep and let down your nets for a catch.” And Simon answered, “Master, we toiled all night and took nothing! But at your word I will let down the nets.” And when they had done this, they enclosed a great shoal of fish; and as their nets were breaking, they beckoned to their partners in the other boat to come and help them. And they came and filled both the boats, so that they began to sink. But when Simon Peter saw it, he fell down at Jesus’ knees, saying, “Depart from me, for I am a sinful man, O Lord.” For he was astonished, and all that were with him, at the catch of fish which they had taken; and so also were James and John, sons of Zebedee, who were partners with Simon. And Jesus said to Simon, “Do not be afraid; henceforth you will be catching men.” And when they had brought their boats to land, they left everything and followed him.
The Gospel of the Lord.
Today’s Reflection
Simon’s initial reaction in today’s Gospel, “Master, we have toiled all night and caught nothing! But at your word I will let down the nets,” qualifies him as Jesus’ true follower who will later be appointed leader of the apostles. Even with a partial recognition of Jesus’ identity, Simon the expert fisherman is humble enough to listen and act according to Jesus exhortation. He is not only rewarded with a spectacular catch of fish, but also a lifelong journey of friendship and discipleship of Jesus. As he grows in his understanding of the Master, Simon also grows in acknowledgement of his own sinfulness: “Depart from, for I am a sinful man, O Lord.” Simon’s attitude of humility and contrition is necessary in our own journey of discipleship.
Personal Devotional
Listen! I have given you authority, so that you can walk on snakes and scorpions and overcome all the power of the Enemy, and nothing will hurt you. Luke 10:19
-I thank you God my Father, for revealing these things to little me.
-Help me to work for the things that endure, not the thing that perish. Help me unbelief.
-Do not allow me to labour in vain, but help me always to remember that unless the Lord builds a house, in vain does its labourers labour.
Let Us Pray
Help me Lord to constantly remain in your presence all the days of my life, realizing that in your presence, there is fullness of every good thing.
Join us in the Miraculous 54 Day Rosary Novena from Sunday 8 September to Thursday 31st October 2023.
Traditionally a novena is nine days. Thus, Our Lady's words to young Fortuna — “Make three novenas of the prayers of the Rosary in petition, and three novenas in thanksgiving.” The novena consists of five decades of the Rosary (one set of mysteries) each day for twenty-seven days in petition; then immediately five decades each day for an additional twenty-seven days in thanksgiving, regardless of whether or not the request has been granted yet. So began six novenas of Rosaries — which became known as the 54-day Rosary Novena.
To do the novena properly — one must pray the Rosary for 54 consecutive days, without missing a day, and must pray the particular Mystery indicated for that day following the correct sequence. That is, the first day of the novena always begins with the Joyful Mysteries (regardless of what day of the week the novena is started); the second day, the Sorrowful Mysteries are prayed; and the third day of the novena, the Glorious Mysteries are prayed.
People have asked over time about the Luminous Mysteries — this novena was given by Our Lady as noted above in 1884 and only allows for the Joyful, Sorrowful and Glorious Mysteries.
May the Lord grant you the strength to complete the Novena in Jesus name Amen.
Friday September 8, 2023
THE NATIVITY OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN MARY (Feast)
Office – Proper, Te Deum
Mass prop. Gloria. Preface of B.V.M
Vestment: White
Today’s Rosary: The Sorrowful Mystery
ENTRANCE ANTIPHON
Let us celebrate with joy the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary, for from her arose the sun of justice, Christ our God.
COLLECT
Impart to your servants, we pray, O Lord, the gift of heavenly grace, that the feast of the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin may bring deeper peace to those for whom the birth of her Son was the dawning of salvation. Through our Lord...
-FIRST READING-
The time when she who is in labour pains has brought forth.
A reading from the Book of the Prophet Micah (Micah 5:2-5a)
Thus says the Lord: You, O Bethlehem Ephrathah, who are little to be among the clans of Judah, from you shall come forth for me one who is to be ruler in Israel, whose origin is from of old, from ancient days. Therefore he shall give them up until the time when she who is in labour pains has brought forth; then the rest of his brethren shall return to the sons of Israel. And he shall stand and feed his flock in the strength of the Lord, in the majesty of the name of the Lord his God. And they shall dwell secure, for now he shall be great to the ends of the earth. And this shall be peace.
The word of the Lord.
Or the following:
-FIRST READING-
Those whom God foreknew he also predestined.
A reading from the Letter of Saint Paul to the Romans (Romans 8:28-30)
Brethren: We know that in everything God works for good with those who love him, who are called according to his purpose. For those whom he foreknew he also predestined to be conformed to the image of his Son, in order that he might be the first-born among many brethren. And those whom he predestined he also called; and those whom he called he also justified; and those whom he justified he also glorified.
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Psalm 13:5.6(R. Isaiah 61:10a)
As for me, I trust in your merciful love.
Let my heart rejoice in your salvation. R.
I will sing to the Lord
who has been bountiful with me. R.
ALLELUIA
Alleluia. Blessed are you, O holy Virgin Mary, and worthy of all praise, because from you arose the sun of justice, Christ our God. Alleluia.
-GOSPEL-
That which is conceived in her is of the Holy Spirit.
A reading from the holy Gospel according to Matthew (Matthew 1:1-16.18-23)
The book of the genealogy of Jesus Christ, the son of David, the son of Abraham. Abraham was the father of Isaac, and Isaac the father of Jacob, and Jacob the father of Judah and his brothers, and Judah the father of Perez and Zerah by Tamar, and Perez the father of Hezron, and Hezron the father of Ram, and Ram the father of Amminadab, and Amminadab the father of Nahshon, and Nahshon the father of Salmon, and Salmon the father of Boaz by Rahab, and Boaz the father of Obed by Ruth, and Obed the father of Jesse, and Jesse the father of David the king. And David was the father of Solomon by the wife of Uriah, and Solomon the father of Rehoboam, and Rehoboam the father of Abijah, and Abijah the father of Asa, and Asa the father of Jehoshaphat, and Jehoshaphat the father of Joram, and Joram the father of Uzziah, and Uzziah the father of Jotham, and Jotham the father of Ahaz, and Ahaz the father of Hezekiah, and Hezekiah the father of Manasseh, and Manasseh the father of Amos, and Amos the father of Josiah, and Josiah the father of Jechoniah and his brothers, at the time of the deportation to Babylon. And after the deportation to Babylon: Jechoniah was the father of Shealtiel, and Shealtiel the father of Zerubbabel, and Zerubbabel the father of Abiud, and Abiud the father of Eliakim, and Eliakim the father of Azor, and Azor the father of Zadok, and Zadok the father of Achim, and Achim the father of Eliud, and Eliud the father of Eleazar, and Eleazar the father of Matthan, and Matthan the father of Jacob, and Jacob the father of Joseph the husband of Mary, of whom Jesus was born, who is called Christ.
* Now the birth of Jesus Christ took place in this way. When his mother Mary had been betrothed to Joseph, before they came together she was found to be with child of the Holy Spirit; and her husband Joseph, being a just man and unwilling to put her to shame, resolved to send her away quietly. But as he considered this, behold, an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream, saying, “Joseph, son of David, do not fear to take Mary your wife, for that which is conceived in her is of the Holy Spirit; she will bear a son, and you shall call his name Jesus, for he will save his people from their sins.” All this took place to fulfil what the Lord had spoken by the prophet: “Behold a virgin shall conceive and bear a son, and his name shall be called Emmanuel” (which means, God with us).
The Gospel of the Lord.
Shorter form: Matthew1:18-23.Read between*
TODAY’S REFLECTION
It is said that there are two days in the life of every person that are the most important: the day we are born and the day we discover why. Today, we remember the birth of an important figure in the history of salvation: Mary the mother of our saviour. Though there is no record of the day she was born, the Church has set today aside for her birthday. Today we give thanks for her life and her life and her selfless service in the plan of salvation. She remains a model of how faith is experienced and expressed. What we remember of Mary’s life was her loving obedience to the will of God. If our faith must shine out like hers, we need to follow in her footsteps even as she strives to lead us to her son. Happy Birthday, darling Heavenly Mum!
The Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary
Today’s feast originated in Jerusalem towards the end of the fifth century. With the whole Church we honour Mary, the mother of Jesus. She was chosen in a special way to be the handmaid of the Lord and to play an important part in the history of salvation and in the mystery of our redemption.
PERSONAL DEVOTIONAL
“I am the Lord’s servant,” said Mary; “may it happen to me as you have said.” And the angel left her. Luke 1:38
-Lord I am surrounded in all sides by indecision, grant me the ability to distinguish between good and evil no matter how enticing they are.
LET US PRAY,
May the Lord grant us the grace and will to be submissive like our Mother Mary, to accept the will of the Lord in our lives.
THE MIRACULOUS 54-DAY ROSARY NOVENA
(FIRST 27 DAYS IN PETITION)
DAY 1:
THE JOYFUL MYSTERIES
1.Sign of the Cross:
In the name of the Father, and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit Amen
For all our benefactors and all those supporting this online Ministry, that through the intercession of our Mother Mary, God in His infinite goodness should guide, protect, remove material lack from their lives and provide for them and their family (Please, state your personal petition) we pray O Lord.
Hail Mary, full of grace, The Lord is with Thee; Blessed art thou among women, And blessed is the fruit of thy womb, Jesus. Holy Mary, Mother of God, Pray for us sinners, now and at the hour of our death. Amen
Hail, Queen of the Most Holy Rosary, my Mother Mary, hail! At thy feet I humbly kneel to offer thee a Crown of Roses, snow white buds to remind thee of thy joys, each bud recalling to thee a holy mystery, each 10 bound together with my petition for a particular grace. O Holy Queen, dispenser of God’s graces, and Mother of all who invoke thee, thou canst not look upon my gift and fail to see its binding. As thou receivest my gift, so wilt thou receive my petition; from thy bounty thou wilt give me the favor I so earnestly and trustingly seek. I despair of nothing that I ask of thee. Show thyself my Mother!
The Apostles’ Creed,
Our Father,
3 Hail Marys,
Glory Be.
Our Father, 10 Hail Mary’s’, Glory Be.
CONCLUDING PRAYER:
I bind these snow-white buds with a petition for the virtue of humility and humbly lay this bouquet at thy feet.
Our Father, 10 Hail Mary’s, Glory Be.
CONCLUDING PRAYER:
I bind these snow-white buds with a petition for the virtue of charity and humbly lay this bouquet at thy feet.
Our Father, 10 Hail Mary’s, Glory Be.
CONCLUDING PRAYER:
I bind these snow-white buds with a petition for the virtue of detachment from the world and humbly lay this bouquet at thy feet.
Our Father, 10 Hail Mary’s, Glory Be.
CONCLUDING PRAYER:
I bind these snow-white buds with a petition for the virtue of purity and humbly lay this bouquet at thy feet.
Our Father, 10 Hail Mary’s, Glory Be.
CONCLUDING PRAYER:
I bind these snow-white buds with a petition for the virtue of obedience to the will of God and humbly lay this bouquet at thy feet.
Hail Holy Queen, Mother of mercy, hail Our life, our sweetness, and our hope. To thee do we cry, poor banished children of Eve. To thee do we send up our sighs, mourning and weeping in this valley of tears. Turn then, most gracious advocate, thine eyes of mercy towards us. And after this, our exile, show unto us the blessed fruit of thy womb, Jesus. O clement O loving O sweet Virgin Mary.
V/. Pray for us oh holy mother of God.
R/. That we may be made worthy of the promises of Christ.
14.Let us pray: Sweet Mother Mary, I offer thee this spiritual communion to bind my bouquets in a wreath to place upon thy brow. O my Mother! Look with favor upon my gift, and in thy love obtain for me (specify request).
Hail Mary, full of grace, The Lord is with Thee; Blessed art thou among women, And blessed is the fruit of thy womb, Jesus. Holy Mary, Mother of God, Pray for us sinners, now and at the hour of our death. Amen
– Promise of Our Lady of the Most Holy Rosary
Whoever desires to obtain favors from Me should make three novenas of the prayers of the Rosary, and three novenas in thanksgiving.”
SATURDAY September 9, 201
Weekday (22)
Vestment: White
Today’s Rosary: The Joyful Mystery
B.V.M on Saturday
-FIRST READING-
A reading from the Letter of Saint Paul to the Colossians (Colossians 1:21-23)
He has reconciled you in order to present you holy and blameless.
Brethren: You, who once were estranged and hostile in mind, doing evil deeds, he has now reconciled in Christ’s body of flesh by his death, in order to present you holy and blameless and irreproachable before him, provided that you continue in the faith, stable and steadfast, not shifting from the hope of the gospel which you heard, which has been preached to every creature under heaven, and of which I, Paul, became a minister.
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Psalm54:3-4.6 and 8 (R. 6a)
R/. See, I have God for my help.
O God, save me by your name;
by your power, defend my cause.
O God, hear my prayer;
give ear to the words of my mouth. R/.
See, I have God for my help.
The Lord sustains my soul.
I will sacrifice to you with willing heart,
and praise your name, for it is good. R/.
ALLELUIA John 14:6
Alleluia. I am the way, and the truth, and the life, says the Lord; no one comes to the Father, but by me. Alleluia.
-GOSPEL-
A reading from the holy Gospel according to Luke (Luke 6:1-5)
“Why are you doing what is not lawful to do on the Sabbath.”
On a sabbath, While Jesus was going through the grain fields, his disciples plucked and ate some heads of grain, rubbing them in their hands. But some of the Pharisees said, “Why are you doing what is not lawful to do on the sabbath?” And Jesus answered, “Have you not read what David did when he was hungry, he and those who were with him: how he entered the house of God, and took and ate the show bread, which it is not lawful for any but the priests to eat, and also gave it to those with him?” And he said to them, “The Son of man is lord of the sabbath.”
The Gospel of the Lord.
Today’s Reflection
The “unlawful” acts committed by the disciples are “plucking ears of grain” and “rubbing them in their hands”. These are normal acts anyone would do while walking through a grain field. Jesus argues in favour of his disciples and proves that what they do is not really “unlawful” but satisfying a basic human need. No law can prevent an act committed in the face of dire human need. Hunger is a global reality as 795 million people in the world exist without the nutrition their minds and bodies need, which then prevents them from being able to work, go to school, or improve their lives. This while, 85 persons control half of the world’s wealth! Jesus, the Lord of the Sabbath. Is also the Lord of compassion and love, especially towards those suffering from hunger and poverty.
Personal Devotional
Do not be afraid – I am with you! I am your God – let nothing terrify you! I will make you strong and help you; I will protect you and save you. Isaiah 41:10
-Give me the grace to be ever sensitive to the needs of those around me.
-Help me to realise that each time I do good to others, I do them to you.
-Assist me to be more conscious of the dangers of selfishness.
Let Us Pray
O Lord make your presence kown to me and assist me in all my doings, give me the grace to accept your will in my life. Amen,
May our Mother Mary intercede for us all in Jesus name Amen.
May the Lord grant you the grace to complete the Novena in Jesus name Amen.
Sunday September 10, 2023
23RD SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME
Vestment: Green
Today’s Rosary: The Glorious Mystery
Theme of the Sunday: How to Correct a Person. We should all think only about ourselves. Is this correct? No, because, as all the readings today tell us, we are responsible for each other. The first reading explains the idea with the story of the sentry who is expected to blow his horn when he sees danger. The gospel suggests how to correct one who has strayed from the way. The second reading complements this theme because it presents love for the other person as the rule that must guide all our actions.
Entrance Antiphon Ps118:137.124
You are just, O Lord, and your judgement is right; treat your servant in accord with your merciful love.
Collect
O God, by whom we are redeemed and receive adoption, look graciously upon your beloved sons and daughters, that those who believe in Christ may receive true freedom and an everlasting inheritance. Through our Lord..
-FIRST READING-
“If you do not speak to warn the wicked to turn from his way, his blood I will require at your hand.”
A reading from the Book of the Prophet Ezekiel (Ezekiel 33:7-9)
Thus says the Lord: “You, son of man, I have made a watchman for the house of Israel; whenever you hear a word from my mouth, you shall give them warning from me. If I say to the wicked, O wicked man, you shall surely die, and you do not speak to warn the wicked to turn from his way, that wicked man shall die in his iniquity, but his blood I will require at your hand. But if you warn the wicked to turn from his way, and he does not turn from his way; he shall die in his iniquity, but you will have saved your life.”
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Psalm95: I-2.6-7abc.7d-9 (R. 7d, 8a)
R/. O that today you would listen to his voice!
Harden not your hearts.
Come, let us ring out our joy to the Lord;
hail the rock who saves us.
Let us come into his presence, giving thanks;
let us hail him with a song of praise. R.
O come; let us bow and bend low.
Let us kneel before the God who made us,
for he is our God and we
the people who belong to his pasture,
the flock that is led by his hand. R.
O that today you would listen to his voice!
“Harden not your hearts as at Meribah,
as on that day at Massah in the desert
when your forebears put me to the test;
When they tried me, though they saw my work.” R.
-SECOND READING-
“Love is the fulfilling of the law.”
A reading from the Letter of Saint Paul to the Romans (Romans 13:8-10)
Brethren: Owe no one anything, except to love one another; for he who loves his neighbour has fulfilled the law. The commandments, “You shall not commit adultery, You shall not kill, You shall not steal, You shall not covet,” and any other commandment, are summed up in this sentence, “You shall love your neighbor as yourself.” Love does no wrong to a neighbour; therefore love is the fulfilling of the law.
The word of the Lord.
ALLELUIA 2 Corinthians 5:19
Alleluia. God was in Christ reconciling the world to himself, and entrusting to us the message of reconciliation. Alleluia.
-GOSPEL-
“If he listens to you, you have gained your brother.”
A reading from the holy Gospel according to Matthew (Matthew18:15-20)
At that time: Jesus said to his disciples, “If your brother sins against you, go and tell him his fault, between you and him alone. If he listens to you, you have gained your brother. But if he does not listen, take one or two others along with you, that every word may be confirmed by the evidence of two or three witnesses. If he refuses to listen to them, tell it to the Church; and if he refuses to listen even to the Church, let him be to you as a Gentile and a tax collector. Truly, I say to you, whatever you bind on earth shall be bound in heaven, and whatever you loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven. Again I say to you, if two of you agree on earth about anything they ask, it will be done for them by the father in heaven. For where two or three are gathered in my name, there am I in the midst of them.”
The Gospel of the Lord
PRAYER OF THE FAITHFUL
Correct each other in charity.
PRIEST: God our Father has called us together to live in the community of the Christian Church. As we bring to mind his many blessings on us, Let us ask for all the graces we need To live together as true Christians.
READER:
For the Church and all Christians, (pause) that they may share their strengths and weaknesses in mutual love, and grow together in the Christian life, witnessing to Christ’s presence among them. (pause) Lord, hear us; for we are your children we pray Oh Lord.
For leaders of nations, (pause) that they may appreciate that they are all brothers and sisters of the one human family, and may they draw no boundaries or erect barriers to divide people by reason of race, colour, creed or social position. (pause) Lord, hear us; for we are your children we pray Oh Lord.
For those who cannot forgive a member of their family, (pause) that they may commit themselves and their faults to Christ, and, like him, learn to forgive, because love alone is the answer for the Christian family. (pause) Lord, hear us; for we are your children we pray Oh Lord.
For parents, teachers and those in charge of children, (pause) that they may lead by love and correct with patience and forbearance, remembering that they too were once young, and made many mistakes. (pause)
Lord, hear us; for we are your children we pray Oh Lord. We pray in silence for our own needs.
PRIEST:
Father, hear our prayers, and change us day by day into the kind of person you want us to be. Through Christ our Lord. Amen.
Today’s Reflection
When people offend us our response becomes a matter of concern for Christ. Very often, these are the possible responses when someone offends us: acting childish, sulking brooding, pondering retaliation, withdrawing response, avoiding the offender, self-justification and taking revenge. In the gospel of today, the Lord teaches us a new path to follow: we must take the first step at reconciliation, we must approach him alone to let him know how he has offended us, we must commit the matter to prayer and we must make every effort at winning our brother back. Who has offended you that you refuse to forgive or reconcile with? The Lord bids you to rise and win your brother to the Lord.
Personal Devotional
Not everyone who calls me ‘Lord, Lord’ will enter the kingdom of heaven, but only those who do what my father in heaven wants them to do… Matthew 7:21
- Lord Jesus make me always mindful of your words: “what does it profit a man if he gains the whole world, but suffers the loss of his own soul,” in the name of Jesus Christ. Amen.
- Holy Father be thou, henceforth, my only treasure, make my heart too solicitous for the vain and fleeting things of the earth. Do not allow anything to separate me from you, in the name of Jesus.
Let Us Pray
Grant me the grace my Father, to give up all things, to empty myself of all selfishness, so that your love may reign in me in the name of Jesus.
MONDAY September 11, 2023
Weekday (23)
Vestment: Green
Today’s Rosary: The Joyful Mystery
-FIRST READING-
A reading from the Letter of Saint Paul to the Colossians (Colossians 1:24-2:3)
I became a minister of the Church to make known the mystery hidden for ages,
Brethren: Now I rejoice in my sufferings for your sake, and in my flesh I complete what is lacking in Christ’s afflictions for the sake of his body, that is, the Church, of which I became a minister according to the divine office which was given to me for you, to make the word of God fully known, the mystery hidden for ages and generations but now made manifest to his saints. To them God chose to make known how great among the Gentiles are the riches of the glory of this mystery, which is Christ in you, the hope of glory. Him we proclaim, warning every man and teaching every man in all wisdom, that we may present every man mature in Christ. For this I toil, striving with all the energy which he mightily inspires within me. For I want you to know how greatly I strive for you, and for those at Laodicea, and for all who have not seen my face, that their hearts may be encouraged as they are knit together in love, to have all the riches of assured understanding and the knowledge of God’s mystery, of Christ, in whom are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge.
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Psalm 62:6-7.9 (R. 8a
R/. In God is my salvation and glory.
In God alone be at rest, my soul,
for my hope is from him.
He alone is my rock, my salvation,
my fortress; never shall I falter. R/.
Trust him at all times, O people.
Pour out your hearts before him,
for God is our refuge. R/.
ALLELUIA John 10:27
Alleluia. My sheep hear my voice, says the Lord; and I know them, and they follow me. Alleluia.
-GOSPEL-
A reading from the holy Gospel according to Luke (Luke 6:6- 11)
“They watched him to see if he would heal on the Sabbath.”
It happened that, on a sabbath, when Jesus entered the synagogue and taught, a man was there whose right hand was withered. And the scribes and the Pharisees watched him, to see whether he would heal on the sabbath, so that they might find an accusation against him. But he knew their thoughts, and he said to the man who had the withered hand, “Come and stand here.” And he rose and stood there. And Jesus said to them, “I ask you, is it lawful on the Sabbath to do good or to do harm, to save life or to destroy it?” And he looked around on them all, and said to him, “Stretch out your hand.” And he did so, and his hand was restored. But they were filled with fury and discussed with one another what they might do to Jesus.
The Gospel of the Lord.
Today’s Reflection
Jesus became like us in every respect so that he would become a faithful, merciful high priest in the service of God (Col 2:3). Jesus’ merciful concern is evident as he encounters the man with a withered hand. He sees in him a child of Abraham who needs healing and wholeness. For Jesus, the faithful, merciful high priest, the Sabbath by its very nature is for doing good and saving life. What he does for him is “saving life”. Those who misunderstand the real meaning of the Sabbath are filled with fury towards Jesus for saving life, are we on the side of life, or on the side of death and destruction? Let us remember, “doing good” and saving life” are the noblest ways to glorify God.
Blessing for the New Week
Thank you Lord for this new day and this new week. Thank you for the gift of life. Thank you for your mercy and love.
Accompany us in all that we shall do and may your grace help us to do the right thing at all times so that we will please you and be blessed by you.
May your truth be on our lips always and may we be willing and ready to accept the truth so that we will be healed.
I pray that God will shower his blessings upon you in a special way so that this new week shall bring joy, progress, increase in faith and prosperity to you and upon your household.
May Jesus the giver of every good gift lead you to your blessings. Amen. Be truthful in your dealings and you will be blessed
Meditation: Luke 4:16-30
THE MIRACULOUS 54-DAY ROSARY NOVENA, 8TH SEPT. TO 31ST OCT. 2023.
FIRST 27 DAYS IN PETITION
Day 2: THE SORROWFUL MYSTERIES
Petition: We pray for all those looking for LIFE PARTNER, that through the intercession of Our Mother Mary God should look with pity and help them. We pray O Lord.
1. + In the name of the Father, and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit Sign of the cross.
2. Hail Mary.
3. Prayer before the recitation of the rosary
Hail, Queen of the Most Holy Rosary, my Mother Mary, hail! At thy feet I humbly kneel to offer thee a Crown of Roses, blood red roses to remind thee of the passion of thy divine Son, with Whom thou didst so fully partake of its bitterness, each rose recalling to thee a holy mystery, each 10 bound together with my petition for a particular grace. O Holy Queen, dispenser of God’s graces, and Mother of all who invoke thee! Thou canst not look upon my gift and fail to see its binding. As thou receivest my gift, so wilt thou receive my petition; from thy bounty thou wilt give me the favor I so earnestly and trustingly seek. I despair of nothing that I ask of thee. Show thyself my Mother!
4. Say: The Apostles’ Creed, Our Father, 3 Hail Marys, Glory Be.
5. The Agony in the Garden – Our Father, 10 Hail Marys, Glory Be.
Concluding Prayer: I bind these blood red roses with a petition for the virtue of resignation to the will of God and humbly lay this bouquet at thy feet.
The Scourging at the Pillar – Our Father, 10 Hail Marys, Glory Be.
Concluding Prayer: I bind these blood red roses with a petition for the virtue of mortification and humbly lay this bouquet at thy feet.
The Crowning with Thorns – Our Father, 10 Hail Marys, Glory Be.
Concluding Prayer: I bind these blood red roses with a petition for the virtue of humility and humbly lay this bouquet at thy feet.
The Carrying of the Cross – Our Father, 10 Hail Marys, Glory Be.
Concluding Prayer: I bind these blood red roses with a petition for the virtue of patience in adversity and humbly lay this bouquet at thy feet.
The Crucifixion – Our Father, 10 Hail Marys, Glory Be.
Concluding Prayer: I bind these blood red roses with a petition for the virtue of love of our enemies and humbly lay this bouquet at thy feet.
6.Say: The Hail Holy Queen.
7. Let us pray: O God whose only begotten son by his life death………..
8. Litany of the Blessed Virgin Mary
9. Sweet Mother Mary, I offer thee this spiritual communion to bind my bouquets in a wreath to place upon thy brow. O my Mother! Look with favor upon my gift, and in thy love obtain for me (specify request). Hail Mary …
10. + In the name of the Father, and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit amen.
TUESDAY September 12, 2023
Weekday (23)
Vestment: Green
Today’s Rosary: The Sorrowful Mystery
-FIRST READING-
A reading from the Letter of Saint Paul to the Colossians (Colossians 2:6-15)
God made us alive together with him, having forgiven us all our trespasses.
Brethren: As you received Christ Jesus the Lord, so live in him, rooted and built up in him and established in the faith, just as you were taught, abounding in thanksgiving. See to it that no one makes a prey of you by philosophy and empty deceit, according to human tradition, according to the elemental spirits of the universe, and not according to Christ. For in him the whole fullness of deity dwells bodily, and you have come to fullness of life in him, who is the head of all rule and authority. In him also you were circumcised with a circumcision made without hands, by putting off the body of flesh in the circumcision of Christ; and you were buried with him in baptism, in which you were also raised with him through faith in the working of God, who raised him from the dead. And you, who were dead in trespasses and the uncircumcision of your flesh, God made alive together with him, having forgiven us all our trespasses, having cancelled the bond which stood against us With its legal demands; this he set aside, nailing it to the cross. He disarmed the principalities and powers and made a public example of them, triumphing over them in him.
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Psalm 145: 1-2.8-9. 10-11 (R. 9a)
R/. How good is the Lord to all.
I will extol you, my God and king,
And bless your name forever and ever.
I will bless you day after day,
And praise your name forever and ever. R/.
The Lord is kind and full of compassion,
Slow to anger, abounding in mercy.
How good is the Lord to all,
Compassionate to all his creatures. R/.
All your works shall thank you,
O Lord, and all your faithful ones bless you.
They shall speak of the glory of your reign,
And declare your mighty deeds. R/.
ALLELUIA John15:16
Alleluia. I chose you from the world that you should go and bear fruit, and that your fruit should abide, says the Lord. Alleluia
-GOSPEL-
A reading from the holy Gospel according to Luke (Luke 6:12-19)
All night he continued in prayer. And he chose twelve, whom he named apostles.
It happened that in these days Jesus went out into the hills to pray; and all night he continued in prayer to God. And when it was day, he called his disciples, and chose from them twelve, whom he named apostles; Simon, whom he named Peter, and Andrew his brother, and James and John, and Philip, and Bartholomew, and Matthew, and Thomas, and James the son of Alphaeus, and Simon who was called the Zealot, and Judas the son of James, and Judas Iscariot, who became a traitor. And he came down with them and stood on a level place, with a great crowd of his disciples and a great multitude of people from all Judea and Jerusalem and the sea coast of Tyre and Sidon, who came to hear him and to be healed of their diseases; and those who were troubled with unclean spirits were cured. And all the crowd sought to touch him, for power came forth from him and healed them all.
The Gospel of the Lord.
Today’s Reflection
The apostles, listed in today’s gospel, are the most unlikely ones from human point of view to be the Lord’s close collaborators. Some of them were fishermen, one was a zealot, another one a tax collector and yet another would turn out to be a traitor. They are uneducated, with no noteworthy leadership qualities, yet too ambitious. Notice that the Lord chose them after a long night of prayer and discernment process. Although the list has nothing to boast about in human calculations, the Lord knew what was best for him and his mission. He had a purpose in calling the ones whom he called. He does not look at the human merits and qualifications, but the interior attitude. Today, after 20 centuries, the church stands strong and tall because those first apostles laid a strong foundation for it.
Personal Devotional
“Respect your father and mother” is the first commandment that has a promise added: “so that all may go well with you, and you may live a long time in the land.” Ephesians 6:2,3
-Thank the Lord for the gift of your children
-I break and reject every negative foundation that may want to disturb my children now or in the future in the name of Jesus.
-The presence of God will lighten the path of all my children in the name of Jesus.
- My children shall be for extraordinary signs and wonders in every area of their lives in the name of Jesus.
Let Us Pray
Father, in humility I come to you, asking for mercy and pardon for my sins and those of my children/ younger ones. Forgive me for the times I have failed in my responsibilities. Do not let my children/younger ones to suffer because of my sins. Holy Spirit, transform me and all my children/younger ones into your living temples of holiness and glory in the name of Jesus. Amen
THE MIRACULOUS 54-DAY ROSARY NOVENA, 8TH SEPT. TO 31ST OCT. 2023.
FIRST 27 DAYS IN PETITION
Day 3: THE GLORIOUS MYSTERIES
Petition: We pray for all couples with troubled marriages. Through the intercession of Our Mother Mary God should restore peace and love to their broken relationship. We pray O Lord.
1. + In the name of the Father, and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit Sign of the cross.
2. Hail Mary.
3. Prayer before the recitation of the rosary
Hail, Queen of the Most Holy Rosary, my Mother Mary, hail! At thy feet I humbly kneel to offer thee a Crown of Roses, full-blown white roses, tinged with the red of the passion, to remind thee of thy glories, fruits of the sufferings of thy Son and thee, each rose recalling to thee a holy mystery, each 10 bound together with my petition for a particular grace. O Holy Queen, dispenser of God’s graces, and Mother of all who invoke thee! Thou canst not look upon my gift and fail to see its binding. As thou receivest my gift, so wilt thou receive my petition; from thy bounty thou wilt give me the favor I so earnestly and trustingly seek. I despair of nothing that I ask of thee. Show thyself my Mother!
4. Say: The Apostles’ Creed, Our Father, 3 Hail Marys, Glory Be.
5.For each of the following Mysteries, say: Our Father, 10 Hail Marys, Glory Be.
The Resurrection – Our Father, 10 Hail Marys, Glory Be.
Concluding Prayer: I bind these full-blown roses with a petition for the virtue of faith and humbly lay this bouquet at thy feet.
The Ascension – Our Father, 10 Hail Marys, Glory Be.
Concluding Prayer: I bind these full-blown roses with a petition for the virtue of hope and humbly lay this bouquet at thy feet.
The Descent of the Holy Spirit – Our Father, 10 Hail Marys, Glory Be.
Concluding Prayer: I bind these full-blown roses with a petition for the virtue of charity and humbly lay this bouquet at thy feet.
The Assumption of Mary – Our Father, 10 Hail Marys, Glory Be.
Concluding Prayer: I bind these full-blown roses with a petition for the virtue of union with Christ and humbly lay this bouquet at thy feet.
The Coronation of the Blessed Mother – Our Father, 10 Hail Marys, Glory Be.
Concluding Prayer: I bind these full-blown roses with a petition for the virtue of union with thee and humbly lay this bouquet at thy feet.
6. Say: The Hail Holy Queen.
7. Let us pray: O God whose only begotten son by his life death………..
8. Litany of the Blessed Virgin Mary
9. Sweet Mother Mary, I offer thee this spiritual communion to bind my bouquets in a wreath to place upon thy brow. O my Mother! Look with favor upon my gift, and in thy love obtain for me (specify request). Hail Mary …
10. + In the name of the Father, and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit amen.
– Promise of Our Lady of the Most Holy Rosary
Whoever desires to obtain favors from Me should make three novenas of the prayers of the Rosary, and three novenas in thanksgiving.”
- Fr Richard Heilman February 7, 2016
WEDNESDAY September 13, 2023
Weekday (23)
Vestment: Green
Today’s Rosary: The Glorious Mystery
-FIRST READING-
A reading from the Letter of Saint Paul to the Colossians (Colossians 3:1-11)
You have died with Christ, put to death therefore what is earthly in you.
Brethren: If you have been raised with Christ, seek the things that are above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God. Set your minds on things that are above, not on things that are on earth. For you have died, and your life is hidden with Christ in God. When Christ who is our life appears, then you also will appear with him in glory. Put to death therefore what is earthly in you: immorality, impurity, passion, evil desire, and covetousness, which is idolatry. On account of these the wrath of God is coming. In these you once walked, when you lived in them. But now put them all away: anger, wrath, malice, slander, and foul talk from your mouth. Do not lie to one another, seeing that you have put off the old man with his practices and have put on the new man, who is being renewed in knowledge after the image of his creator. Here there cannot be Greek and Jew, circumcised and uncircumcised, barbarian, Scythian, slave, free man, but Christ is all, and in all.
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Psalm 145:2-3.10-11.12- l3ab (R. 9a)
R/. How good is the Lord to all.
I will bless you day after day,
and praise your name forever and ever.
The Lord is great and highly to be praised;
his greatness cannot be measured. R/.
All your works shall thank you,
O Lord, and all your faithful ones bless you.
They shall speak of the glory of your reign,
and declare your mighty deeds. R/.
They shall make known your might to the children of men,
and the glorious splendour of your reign.
Your kingdom is an everlasting kingdom;
your rule endures for all generations. R/.
ALLELUIA Luke 6:23ab
Alleluia. Rejoice and leap for joy, says the Lord, for behold, your reward is great in heaven. Alleluia.
-GOSPEL-
A reading from the holy Gospel according to Luke (Luke 6:20-26)
“Blessed are you poor. Woe to you that are rich.”
At that time: Jesus lifted up his eyes on his disciples and said: “Blessed are you poor, for yours is the kingdom of God. “Blessed are you that hunger now, for you shall be satisfied. “Blessed are you that weep now, for you shall laugh. “Blessed are you when men hate you, and when they exclude you and revile you, and cast out your name as evil, on account of the Son of man! Rejoice in that day, and leap for joy, for behold, your reward is great in heaven; for so their fathers did to the prophets. “But woe to you that are rich, for you have received your consolation. “Woe to you that are full now, for you shall hunger. “Woe to you that laugh now, for you shall mourn and weep. “Woe to you, when all men speak well of you, for so their fathers did to the false prophets.”
The Gospel of the Lord.
Today’s Reflection
Luke’s list of blessing and woes is shorter, sharper and more straightforward compared to Matthew’s beatitudes. In Luke’s Gospel Jesus presents a list of four blessings and four corresponding woes. In this new value system of Jesus, he classifies those who are really poor, hungry, weeping and persecuted as blessed because of the reversal of fortune that they will enjoy in his kingdom. God has a preferential love towards them, as they place their trust in him alone. They will, no doubt, be rewarded for what they endure. Conversely, those that enjoy everything in this life tend to be self-satisfied and do not need God as their source of comfort. Their reward comes from their material wealth worldly consolations.
Personal Devotional
I have the strength to face all conditions by the power that Christ gives me. Philippians 4:13
- Asked the Lord for pardon for your sins especially for the times you have cheated and have involved in dubious business deals.
- Father I release myself from all evil association (if you have involved yourself in unresolved occultism of any kind or have visited ‘witch doctor (S)’, water spirits in search of business success before.
Let Us Pray
O my God, I am sorry and beg pardon for all my sins, and detest them above all things, because they have crucified my loving Saviour Jesus Christ, and, most of all, because they offend your infinite goodness; and I firmly resolve, by the help of your grace, never to offend you again, and carefully to avoid the occasion of sin.
THE MIRACULOUS 54-DAY ROSARY NOVENA, 8TH SEPT. TO 31ST OCT. 2023.
FIRST 27 DAYS IN PETITION
Day 4: THE JOYFUL MYSTERIES
Petition: Let us pray for all looking for the fruit of the womb that through the intercession of our Mother Mary, that God should provide for them and grant their heart desires. We pray O Lord.
1. + In the name of the Father, and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit Sign of the cross.
2. Hail Mary.
3. Prayer before the recitation of the rosary
Hail, Queen of the Most Holy Rosary, my Mother Mary, hail! At thy feet I humbly kneel to offer thee a Crown of Roses, snow white buds to remind thee of thy joys, each bud recalling to thee a holy mystery, each 10 bound together with my petition for a particular grace. O Holy Queen, dispenser of God’s graces, and Mother of all who invoke thee, thou canst not look upon my gift and fail to see its binding. As thou receivest my gift, so wilt thou receive my petition; from thy bounty thou wilt give me the favor I so earnestly and trustingly seek. I despair of nothing that I ask of thee. Show thyself my Mother!
4. The Apostles’ Creed, Our Father, 3 Hail Marys, Glory Be.
5.The Annunciation – Our Father, 10 Hail Marys, Glory Be.
Concluding Prayer: I bind these snow-white buds with a petition for the virtue of humility and humbly lay this bouquet at thy feet.
The Visitation – Our Father, 10 Hail Marys, Glory Be.
Concluding Prayer: I bind these snow-white buds with a petition for the virtue of charity and humbly lay this bouquet at thy feet.
The Nativity – Our Father, 10 Hail Marys, Glory Be.
Concluding Prayer: I bind these snow-white buds with a petition for the virtue of detachment from the world and humbly lay this bouquet at thy feet.
The Presentation – Our Father, 10 Hail Marys, Glory Be.
Concluding Prayer: I bind these snow-white buds with a petition for the virtue of purity and humbly lay this bouquet at thy feet.
Finding the Child Jesus in the Temple – Our Father, 10 Hail Marys, Glory Be.
Concluding Prayer: I bind these snow-white buds with a petition for the virtue of obedience to the will of God and humbly lay this bouquet at thy feet.
6. The Hail Holy Queen.
7. Let us pray: O God whose only begotten son by his life death………..
8. Litany of the Blessed Virgin Mary
9. Sweet Mother Mary, I offer thee this spiritual communion to bind my bouquets in a wreath to place upon thy brow. O my Mother! Look with favor upon my gift, and in thy love obtain for me (specify request). Hail Mary …
10. + In the name of the Father, and of The son and of the Holy Spirit amen.
Thursday September 14, 2023
EXALTATION OF THE HOLY CROSS (FEAST)
Office – Proper, Te Deum
Mass prop. Gloria. Preface of the Triumph of the Cross
or of the Passion of the Lord 1
Vestment: Red
Today’s Rosary: The Luminous Mystery
EXALTATION OF THE HOLY CROSS (FEAST)
Today’s feast celebrates the dedication of the Basilica of the Holy Sepulchre in Jerusalem. This church is one of the most important shrines in the world since it is believed to have been erected on the spot where the Lord was crucified and was buried. Today we celebrate the centrality of the cross in our Christian life and it’s saving power for us who believe.
Theme of the Feast:
IN THE CRUCIFIX THE FATHER TELLS US EVERYTHING
We read in John’s Gospel that God reveals his greatest glory when his Son is lifted up on the cross. Though he was God, he lowered himself to become a man: he humbled himself unto death and death on the cross. Only those who trust in him will be exalted and those like him who choose a life of self-sacrifice.
Entrance Antiphon Cf. Gal 6:14
We should glory in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, in whom is our salvation, life and resurrection, through whom we are saved and delivered.
COLLECT
O God, who willed that your Only Begotten Son should undergo the Cross to save the human race, grant, we pray, that we who have known his mystery on earth may merit the grace of his redemption in heaven. Through our Lord. .
-FIRST READING-
A reading from the Book of Numbers (Numbers 21 :4b-9)
Every one who is bitten, when he sees it, shall live
In those days: The people became impatient on the way. And the people spoke against God and against Moses, “Why have you brought us up out of Egypt to die in the wilderness? For there is no food and no water, and we loathe this worthless food.” Then the Lord sent fiery serpents among the people, and they bit the people, so that many sons of Israel died. And the people came to Moses, and said, “We have sinned, for we have spoken against the Lord and against you; pray to the Lord, that he take away the serpents from us.” So Moses prayed for the people. And the Lord said to Moses, “Make a fiery serpent, and set up as a sign; and every one who is bitten, when he sees it, shall live.” So Moses made a bronze serpent, and set it up as a sign; and if a serpent bit any man, he would look at the bronze serpent and live.
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Ps78:1-2.34-35.36—37.38 (R. cf.7b)
R/. Never forget the deeds of the Lord!
Give ear, my people, to my teaching;
incline your ear to the words of my mouth.
I will open my mouth in a parable
And utter hidden lessons of the past. R/.
When he slew them, then they sought him,
repented and earnestly sought God.
They would remember that God was their rock,
God the Most High their redeemer. R/.
R/. Never forget the deeds of the Lord!
Yet they deceived him with their mouths;
they lied to him with their tongues.
For their hearts were not steadfast towards him;
They were not faithful to his covenant. R/.
Yet he who is full of compassion
Forgave them their sin and spared them.
So often he held back his anger,
and did not stir up all his rage. R/.
-SECOND READING-
He humbled himself, therefore God has exalted him.
A reading from the Letter of Saint Paul to the Philippians (Philippians 2:6-11)
Christ Jesus, though he was in the form of God, did not count equality with God a thing to be grasped, but emptied himself, taking the form of a servant, being born in the likeness of men. And being found in human form he humbled himself and became obedient unto death, even death on a cross. Therefore God has highly exalted him and bestowed on him the name which is above every name, that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.
The word of the Lord.
ALLELUIA
Alleluia. We adore you, O Christ, and we bless you, because by your Cross you have redeemed the world. Alleluia
-GOSPEL-
The Son of man must be lifted up.
A reading from the holy Gospel according to John (John 3:13-17)
At that time: Jesus said to Nicodemus, “No one has ascended into heaven but he who descended from heaven, the Son of man. And as Moses lifted up the serpent in the wilderness, so must the Son of man be lifted up, that who ever believes in him may have eternal life.” For God so loved the world that he gave his only-begotten Son, that who ever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life. For God sent the Son into the world, not to condemn the world, but that the world might be saved through him.
The Gospel of the Lord.
PRAYER OF THE FAITHFUL
The Triumph of The Cross
God gave his only Son.
PRIEST: My brothers and sisters, Jesus humbled himself by his death on the cross, so that we might live the new life of grace. Let us pray to the Lord for all the graces which his death has won for us.
READER:
FOR THE CHURCH, (pause) let her always proclaim the triumph of the Cross, by which her Lord and Founder conquered sin, death and the world. (pause) Lord, have mercy; through the cross of Christ we pray Oh Lord.
FOR THOSE IN PUBLIC OFFICE, (pause) let them see the insignia of the Cross not as an empty symbol but as a pledge of their personal commitment to serve their people, as Christ himself did. (pause) Lord, have mercy; through the cross of Christ we pray Oh Lord.
FOR THOSE WHO DESPAIR OF FORGIVENESS OF THEIR SINS, (pause) let them look on the Cross as the sign of the price Christ paid for the forgiveness of all their sins, however grievous they may be. (pause) Lord, have mercy; through the cross of Christ we pray Oh Lord.
FOR A GREATER REVERENCE OF THE CROSS, (pause) let all Christians reverently make the sign for the Cross as a sign to themselves, and everyone else, of Christ’s total love for them, and their belief in the Holy Trinity. (pause) Lord, have mercy; through the cross of Christ we pray Oh Lord.
In silence, we make our private petitions to God, who gave us his only Son.
PRIEST: Father, since you gave us your Son, you cannot refuse us anything; that is why we now make our prayers to you. Through Christ our Lord. Amen.
TODAY’S REFLECTION
At the time of Jesus, the cross was an instrument of torture and death. It was the bitter bed for thieves and slaves and criminals. Yet today, it has become a symbol of triumph and an emblem of glory. When we look at the cross, we see the outstretched arms that embrace all our faults, we see the dripping blood that bathes us from our sins and washes us white as snow. The reading from Paul speaks of the kenosis, the self-emptying of Christ. In the cross we see all that matters to God: total self-giving, love without limit, love beyond words. Let us cling to the rugged cross that we may exchange it one day for a crown.
PERSONAL DEVOTIONAL
-Thank you Jesus for your power is made manifest in my weakness in the name of Jesus.
-I am healed by the stripes of Jesus, Jesus carried my sickness and infirmities in the name of Jesus
LET US PRAY,
I break, rebuke and cast out every spirit of cancer deposited into my body by the power of darkness. Wherever they are located. (place your right hand wherever you feel convenient) I call down the healing power and Fire of God upon it in the name of Jesus. Amen
THE MIRACULOUS 54-DAY ROSARY NOVENA
FIRST 27 DAYS IN PETITION
Day 7: THE JOYFUL MYSTERIES
In the name of the Father, and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit Amen
Let us pray for all those seeking for Divine Intervention in their finances that intercession of our Mother Mary, God should hear and grant them their heart desires. We pray O Lord.
Hail Mary, full of grace, The Lord is with Thee; Blessed art thou among women, And blessed is the fruit of thy womb, Jesus. Holy Mary, Mother of God, Pray for us sinners, now and at the hour of our death. Amen
The Apostles’ Creed,
Our Father,
3 Hail Marys,
Glory Be.
Our Father, 10 Hail Mary’s’, Glory Be.
CONCLUDING PRAYER:
I bind these snow-white buds with a petition for the virtue of humility and humbly lay this bouquet at thy feet.
Our Father, 10 Hail Mary’s, Glory Be.
CONCLUDING PRAYER:
I bind these snow-white buds with a petition for the virtue of charity and humbly lay this bouquet at thy feet.
Our Father, 10 Hail Mary’s, Glory Be.
CONCLUDING PRAYER:
I bind these snow-white buds with a petition for the virtue of detachment from the world and humbly lay this bouquet at thy feet.
Our Father, 10 Hail Mary’s, Glory Be.
CONCLUDING PRAYER:
I bind these snow-white buds with a petition for the virtue of purity and humbly lay this bouquet at thy feet.
Our Father, 10 Hail Mary’s, Glory Be.
CONCLUDING PRAYER:
I bind these snow-white buds with a petition for the virtue of obedience to the will of God and humbly lay this bouquet at thy feet.
Hail Holy Queen, Mother of mercy, hail Our life, our sweetness, and our hope. To thee do we cry, poor banished children of Eve. To thee do we send up our sighs, mourning and weeping in this valley of tears. Turn then, most gracious advocate, thine eyes of mercy towards us. And after this, our exile, show unto us the blessed fruit of thy womb, Jesus. O clement O loving O sweet Virgin Mary.
V/. Pray for us oh holy mother of God.
R/. That we may be made worthy of the promises of Christ.
14.Let us pray: Sweet Mother Mary, I offer thee this spiritual communion to bind my bouquets in a wreath to place upon thy brow. O my Mother! Look with favor upon my gift, and in thy love obtain for me (specify request).
Hail Mary, full of grace, The Lord is with Thee; Blessed art thou among women, And blessed is the fruit of thy womb, Jesus. Holy Mary, Mother of God, Pray for us sinners, now and at the hour of our death. Amen
– Promise of Our Lady of the Most Holy Rosary
Whoever desires to obtain favors from Me should make three novenas of the prayers of the Rosary, and three novenas in thanksgiving.”
Entrance Antiphon Cf.Lk 2:34-35
Simeon said to Mary: Behold, this child is destined for the ruin and rising of many in Israel, and to be a sign of contradiction; and your own soul a sword will pierce.
COLLECT
O God, who willed that when your Son was lifted high on the Cross, his Mother should stand close by and share his suffering, grant that your Church, participating with the Virgin Mary in the Passion of Christ, may merit a share in his Resurrection. Who lives and reigns with you. . .
The Gospel for this memorial is proper.
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Ps 31:1-2ab.2cd-3.4-5.14-15. 19 (R.16b)
R. Save me, O Lord, in your merciful love.
In you, O Lord, I take refuge.
Let me never be put to shame.
In your justice, set me free;
incline your ear to me,
and speedily rescue me. R.
Be a rock of refuge for me,
a mighty stronghold to save me.
For you are my rock, my stronghold!
Lead me, guide me, for the sake of your name. R.
Release me from the snare they have hidden,
for you indeed are my refuge.
Into your hands I commend my spirit.
You will redeem me, O Lord, O faithful God. R.
But as for me, I trust in you, O Lord; I say,
“You are my God.
My lot is in your hands, deliver me
from the hands of my enemies
and those who pursue me. R.
How great is the goodness, Lord,
That you keep for those who fear you,
That you show to those who trust you
In the sight of the children of men. R.
The following sequence, Stabat Mater, is optional.
SEQUENCE (Poetic Text)
At the cross her station keeping,
Stood the mournful Mother weeping,
Close to Jesus to the last.
Through her heart, his sorrow sharing.
All his bitter anguish bearing,
Now at length the sword had passed.
Oh, how sad and sore distressed
Was that Mother highly blessed
Of the sole begotten One
Christ above in torment hangs,
She beneath beholds the pangs
Of her dying, glorious Son.
Is there one who would not weep,
’Whelmed in miseries so deep,
Christ’s dear Mother to behold?
Can the human heart refrain
From partaking in her pain,
In that mother’s pain untold?
Bruised, derided, cursed, defiled,
She beheld her tender Child,
All with bloody scourges rent.
For the sins of his own nation
Saw him hang in desolation
Till his spirit forth he sent.
O sweet Mother! font of love,
Touch my spirit from above,
Make my heart with thine accord.
Make me feel as thou hast felt;
Make my soul to glow and melt
With the love of Christ, my Lord.
Holy Mother, pierce me through,
In my heart each wound renew
Of my saviour crucified.
Let me share with thee his pain,
Who for all our sins was slain,
Who for me in torments died.
Let me mingle tears with thee,
Mourning him who mourned for me,
All the days that I may live.
By the cross with thee to stay,
There with thee to weep and pray,
Is all I ask of thee to give.
Virgin of all virgins blest!
Listen to my fond request:
Let me share thy grief divine.
Let me to my latest breath,
In my body bear the death
Of that dying Son of thine.
Wounded with his every wound,
Steep my soul till it has swooned
In his very blood away.
Be to me, O Virgin, nigh,
Lest in flames I bum and die,
In his awful judgement day.
Christ, when thou shalt call me hence,
Be thy Mother my defence,
Be thy cross my victory.
While my body here decays,
May my soul thy goodness praise,
Safe in heaven eternally.
Amen. (Alleluia.)
ALLELUIA
Alleluia. Blessed is the Blessed Virgin Mary; for, without dying, she merited the palm of martyrdom at the foot of the Lord’s cross. Alleluia.
-GOSPEL-
How the loving mother sorrowed in her anguish, contemplating the torments of her great son! (Stabat Mater).
A reading from the holy Gospel according to John (John 19:25-27)
Standing by the cross of Jesus were his mother, and his mother’s sister, Mary the wife of Clopas, and Mary Magdalene. When Jesus saw his mother, and the disciple whom he loved standing near, he said to his mother, “Woman, behold your son!” Then he said to the disciple, “Behold, your mother!” And from that hour the disciple took her to his own home.
The Gospel of the Lord.
Or the following:
-GOSPEL-
A sword will pierce through your own soul.
A reading from the holy Gospel according to Luke (Luke 2:33-35)
At that time: The father and mother of Jesus marveled at what was said about him; and Simeon blessed them and said to Mary his mother, “Behold, this child is set for the fall and rising of many in Israel, and for a sign that is spoken against (and a sword will pierce through your own soul also), that thoughts out of many hearts may be revealed.”
The Gospel of the Lord.
Reflection
To be called “Our Lady of Sorrows” seems like a terrible thing. After all, by nature we humans seek to avoid pain, not embrace it. But pain in this world is unavoidable, and at times necessary: for growth, for healing, or to love. It is this very love that keeps Mary at the foot of the cross: to share her son’s pain, to be his silent refuge. When she said yes to Gabriel, she not only agreed to conceive God’s Son, but to be forever connected to him. She agreed to be humiliated, scourged, crucified, and to die with Jesus. And for doing so she is also first to receive the fruits of her son’s resurrection. Such is the meaning of our devotion to Our Lady of Sorrows. It is not a celebration of hurts, but a testimony to the love that gives our inescapable pain its meaning and ultimately its defeat.
OUR LADY OF SORROWS
This feast originated in Germany and was extended to the universal Church by Pope Benedict XIII in 1721. It focuses on the way in which Mary shared in the sufferings of her Son when he offered himself on the cross for our salvation.
Today's Prayer
Assist me to hear you speak in the silence of my heart.
Assist me with your grace to become innocent like the dove.
Assist me and open my ears to hear and differentiate your voice from the voice of the world.
Assist me to realise my blessings and as I name them one-by-one, help me to see the wonders you have done for me.
Let Us Pray
I fly to your mercy, compassionate God who alone are good. All my misery is great and my offenses are many, I trust in your mercy, because you are the God of mercy; and from time immemorial, it has never been heard of, nor do heaven or earth remember, that a soul trusting in your mercy has been disappointed.
O God of compassion, you alone can justify me you will never reject me when I, contrite, approach your merciful heart, where no one has ever been refused, even if he were the greatest sinner. Jesus, friend of lonely heart, you are my heaven, you are my peace. You are my salvation; you are my serenity in moments of struggle and amidst an ocean of doubts. You are bright ray that lights up the soul even when it remains silent. You know our weakness and like a good Physician, you comfort and heal, sparing us sufferings-Expert that you are. Amen.
Saturday September 16, 2023
Weekday (23).
Vestment: Red
Today’s Rosary: The Joyful Mystery
B. V. M on Saturday
-FIRST READING-
“He came into the world to save sinners.”
A reading from the first Letter of Saint Paul to Timothy 1 Timothy 1:15-17
Beloved: The saying is sure and worthy of full acceptance, that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners. And I am the foremost of sinners; but I received mercy for this reason, that in me, as the foremost, Jesus Christ might display his perfect patience for an example to those who were to believe in him for eternal life. To the King of ages, immortal, invisible, the only God, be honour and glory for ever and ever. Amen.
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Psalm113:1-2.3-4.5a and 6-7 (R. 2).
R. May the name of the Lord be blest forevermore.
Or: Alleluia.
Praise, O servants of the Lord,
praise the name of the Lord!
May the name of the Lord be blest
both now and forevermore! R.
From the rising of the sun to its setting,
praised be the name of the Lord!
High above all nations is the Lord,
above the heavens his glory. R.
Who is like the Lord, our God,
who lowers himself to look down
upon heaven and earth?
From the dust he lifts up the lowly,
from the ash heap he raises the poor. R.
ALLELUIA John14:23
Alleluia. If a man loves me, he will keep my word, says the Lord; and my Father will love him, and we will come to him. Alleluia.
-GOSPEL-
“Why do you call me ’Lord, Lord, ’and not do what I tell you?”
A reading from the holy Gospel according to Luke (Luke 6:43-49).
At that time: Jesus said to his disciples, “No good tree bears bad fruit, nor again does a bad tree bear good fruit; for each tree is known by its own fruit. For figs are not gathered from thorns, nor are grapes picked from a bramble bush. The good man out of the good treasure of his heart produces good, and the evil man out of his evil treasure produces evil; for out of the abundance of the heart his mouth speaks. “Why do you call me ‘Lord, Lord,’ and not do what I tell you? Every one who comes to me and hears my words and does them, I will show you what he is like: he is like a man building a house, who dug deep, and laid the foundation upon rock; and when a flood arose, the stream broke against that house, and could not shake it, because it had been well built. But he who hears and does not do them is like a man who built a house on the ground without a foundation; against which the stream broke, and immediately it fell, and the ruin of that house was great.”
The Gospel of the Lord.
Today’s Reflection
Jesus calls us to examine our heart to find out what is stored there. Perhaps our heart stores up sorrow, anxiety and distress, prejudice, blame and irresponsibility. Whatever negative “treasure” we store in our heart will find a way out in physical pain, or in words and actions that may cause harm to others. Perhaps our heart is empty, with no compassion, kindness, humor, or sympathy stored up. Empty hearts display a tendency to remain isolated and indifferent to those in need. Or perhaps our hearts have stored up faith in God, forgiveness, humility, gratitude and joy. Whatever positive treasure we store in our heart will flow out of us and transform the world.
Personal Devotional
I have the strength to face all conditions by the power that Christ gives me. Philippians 4:13
- Asked the Lord for pardon for your sins especially for the times you have cheated and have involved in dubious business deals.
- Father I release myself from all evil association (if you have involved yourself in unresolved occultism of any kind or have visited ‘witch doctor (S)’, water spirits in search of business success before.
Let Us Pray
O my God, I am sorry and beg pardon for all my sins, and detest them above all things, because they have crucified my loving Saviour Jesus Christ, and, most of all, because they offend your infinite goodness; and I firmly resolve, by the help of your grace, never to offend you again, and carefully to avoid the occasion of sin.
THE MIRACULOUS 54-DAY ROSARY NOVENA
FIRST 27 DAYS IN PETITION
Day 9: THE JOYFUL MYSTERIES
1. Sign of the Cross:
In the name of the Father, and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit Amen
PERSONAL INTENTION: Let us pray for all looking for the fruit of the womb that through the intercession of our Mother Mary, that God should provide for them and grant their heart desires. We pray O Lord.
2. Hail Mary:
Hail Mary, full of grace, The Lord is with Thee; Blessed art thou among women, And blessed is the fruit of thy womb, Jesus. Holy Mary, Mother of God, Pray for us sinners, now and at the hour of our death. Amen
3. Hail, Queen of the Most Holy Rosary, my Mother Mary, hail! At thy feet I humbly kneel to offer thee a Crown of Roses, snow white buds to remind thee of thy joys, each bud recalling to thee a holy mystery, each 10 bound together with my petition for a particular grace. O Holy Queen, dispenser of God’s graces, and Mother of all who invoke thee, thou canst not look upon my gift and fail to see its binding. As thou receivest my gift, so wilt thou receive my petition; from thy bounty thou wilt give me the favor I so earnestly and trustingly seek. I despair of nothing that I ask of thee. Show thyself my Mother!
4. Say:
- The Apostles’ Creed,
- Our Father,
- 3 Hail Marys,
- Glory Be.
5. The Annunciation:-
Our Father, 10 Hail Mary’s’, Glory Be.
CONCLUDING PRAYER:
I bind these snow-white buds with a petition for the virtue of humility and humbly lay this bouquet at thy feet.
6. The Visitation: –
Our Father, 10 Hail Mary’s, Glory Be.
CONCLUDING PRAYER:
I bind these snow-white buds with a petition for the virtue of charity and humbly lay this bouquet at thy feet.
7. The Nativity :–
Our Father, 10 Hail Mary’s, Glory Be.
CONCLUDING PRAYER:
I bind these snow-white buds with a petition for the virtue of detachment from the world and humbly lay this bouquet at thy feet.
9. The Presentation:–
Our Father, 10 Hail Mary’s, Glory Be.
CONCLUDING PRAYER:
I bind these snow-white buds with a petition for the virtue of purity and humbly lay this bouquet at thy feet.
10. Finding the Child Jesus in the Temple:–
Our Father, 10 Hail Mary’s, Glory Be.
CONCLUDING PRAYER:
I bind these snow-white buds with a petition for the virtue of obedience to the will of God and humbly lay this bouquet at thy feet.
11. Say: The Hail Holy Queen.
Hail Holy Queen, Mother of mercy, hail Our life, our sweetness, and our hope. To thee do we cry, poor banished children of Eve. To thee do we send up our sighs, mourning and weeping in this valley of tears. Turn then, most gracious advocate, thine eyes of mercy towards us. And after this, our exile, show unto us the blessed fruit of thy womb, Jesus. O clement O loving O sweet Virgin Mary.
V/. Pray for us oh holy mother of God.
R/. That we may be made worthy of the promises of Christ.
12. Let us pray: O God whose only begotten son by his life death………..
13. Litany of the Blessed Virgin Mary (optional)
14.Let us pray: Sweet Mother Mary, I offer thee this spiritual communion to bind my bouquets in a wreath to place upon thy brow. O my Mother! Look with favor upon my gift, and in thy love obtain for me (specify request).
15. HAIL MARY;
Hail Mary, full of grace, The Lord is with Thee; Blessed art thou among women, And blessed is the fruit of thy womb, Jesus. Holy Mary, Mother of God, Pray for us sinners, now and at the hour of our death. Amen
16. In the name of the Father, and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit amen.
– Promise of Our Lady of the Most Holy Rosary
Whoever desires to obtain favors from Me should make three novenas of the prayers of the Rosary, and three novenas in thanksgiving.”
- Fr Richard Heilman February 7, 2016
Sunday September 17, 2023
24TH SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME
Vestment: Green/White
Today’s Rosary: The Glorious Mystery
Theme of the Sunday: Forgiveness without Limit. The gospel of today is from the last part of chapter 18 which, as we saw last Sunday, deals with the problems of Matthew’s communities. Today it emphasises forgiveness. How should Christians deal with those who offend them? Should they retaliate? Not even once? Both the gospel passage and the first reading say clearly that the only possible Christian attitude is one of forgiveness. The second reading is connected to this; it recommends patience in dealing with those who hold opinions different from ours.
Entrance Antiphon cf.36:1
Give peace, O Lord, to those who wait for you, that your prophets be found true. Hear the prayers of your servant, and of your people Israel.
Collect
Look upon us, O God, Creator and ruler of all things, and, that we may feel the working of your mercy, grant that we may serve you with all our heart. Through our Lord. ..
-FIRST READING-
“Forgive your neighbor the wrong he has done, and then your sins will be forgiven when you pray.”
A reading from the Book of Sirach (Sirach 27:30-28:7)
Anger and wrath, these also are abominations, and the sinful man will possess them. He that takes vengeance will suffer vengeance from the Lord, and he will firmly establish his sins. Forgive your neighbor the wrong he has done, and then your sins will be pardoned when you pray. Does a man harbor anger against another, and yet seek for healing from the Lord? Does he have no mercy towards a man like himself, and yet pray for his own sins? If he himself, being flesh, maintains wrath, will he then seek forgiveness from God? Who will make expiation for his sins? Remember the end of your life, and cease from enmity, remember destruction and death, and be true to the commandments. Remember the commandments, and do not be angry with your neighbour; remember the covenant of the Most High, and overlook ignorance.
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Psalm103:1-2.3-4.9-10.ll-12(R.8)
R/. The Lord is compassionate and gracious,
slow to anger and rich in mercy.
Bless the Lord, O my soul,
And all within me, his holy name.
Bless the Lord, O my soul,
And never forget all his benefits. R.
It is the Lord who forgives all your sins,
who heals every one of your ills,
who redeems your life from the grave,
who crowns you with mercy and compassion. R.
He will not always find fault;
nor persist in his anger forever.
He does not treat us according to our sins,
nor repay us according to our faults. R.
For as the heavens are high above the earth,
So strong his mercy for those who fear him.
As far as the east is from the west,
So far from us does he remove our transgressions. R.
-SECOND READING-S
“Whether we live or die, we are the Lord’s.”
A reading from the Letter of Saint Paul to the Romans (Romans14:7-9)
Brethren: None of us lives to himself, and none of us dies to himself. If we live, we live to the Lord, and if we die, we die to the Lord; so then, whether we live or whether we die, we are the Lord’s. For to this end Christ died and lived again, that he might be Lord both of the dead and of the living.
The word of the Lord.
ALLELUIA John13:34
Alleluia. A new commandment I give to you, says the Lord, that you love one another, even as I have loved you. Alleluia.
-GOSPEL-
“I do not say to you that you forgive seven times but seventy times seven.”
A reading from the holy Gospel according to Matthew (Matthew 18:21-35)
At that time: Peter came up and said to Jesus, “Lord, how often shall my brother sin against me, and I forgive him? As many seven times?” Jesus said to him, “I do not say to you seven times, but seventy times seven. “Therefore the kingdom of heaven maybe compared to a king who wished to settle accounts with his servants. When he began the reckoning, one was brought to him who owed him ten thousand talents; and as he could not pay, his lord ordered him to be sold, with his wife and children and all that he had, and payment to be made. So the servant fell on his knees, imploring him, ‘Lord, have patience with me, and I will pay you everything.’ And out of pity for him the lord of that servant released him and forgave him the debt. “But that same servant, as he went out, came upon one of his fellow servants who owed him a hundred denarii; and seizing him by the throat he said, ‘Pay what you owe. ’ So his fellow servant fell down and pleaded with him, ‘Have patience with me, and I will pay you. ’He refused and went and put him in prison till he should pay the debt. “When his fellow servants saw what had taken place, they were greatly distressed, and they went and reported to their lord all that had taken place. Then his lord summoned him and said to him, ‘You wicked servant! I forgave you all that debt because you pleaded with me; and should not you have had mercy on your fellow servant, as I had mercy on you? ’ And in anger his lord delivered him to the jailers, till he should pay all his debt. So also my heavenly Father will do to every one of you, if you do not forgive your brother from your heart.”
The Gospel of the Lord.
PRAYER OF THE FAITHFUL
Forgive from your heart.
PRIEST: My brothers and sisters, as we pray to the Lord with sorrow and humility for our sins, let us ask for the necessary graces to forgive from our hearts those who offend us.
READER:
For the Church in her mission of reconciliation and forgiveness, (pause) let her continually teach, preach and practice that we must forgive one another, as the Lord has forgiven us. (pause) Forgive us, O Lord; as we forgive others we pray Oh Lord.
FOR PEACE AND FORGIVENESS AMONG NATIONS, (pause) let them forget past victories or defeats, which resulted in unjust treaties, and build for the future in mutual trust and harmony. (pause) Forgive us, O Lord; as we forgive others we pray Oh Lord.
FOR THOSE WHO FEEL OUTCASTS IN SOCIETY, (pause) let them forgive themselves, which is the measure of their forgiveness of others, and see themselves always as God’s children. (pause) Forgive us, O Lord; as we forgive others we pray Oh Lord.
FOR GREATER FORGIVENESS IN THIS COMMUNITY, (pause) let our sign of peace at this Eucharist reflect the forgiveness we experience as members of one family whom the Lord himself has forgiven, and made his own. (pause) Forgive us, O Lord; as we forgive others we pray Oh Lord.
We make our private petitions in silence and sorrow, to our forgiving Lord.
PRIEST:
Father, we pray that you will accept our sorrow for our sins, and teach us how to forgive others as you have forgiven us. Through Christ our Lord. Amen.
Today’s Reflection
Forgiveness is the pill for every ill. To forgive seventy times seven, is to forgive without limit. When your spouse or sibling offends you, when your colleagues mock you, when your teacher or lecturer hurts you badly, when your parents or neighbours accuse you falsely, when people don’t appreciate what you do but deliberately misunderstand you, when you are called names and castigated, the Lord who is the great physician teaches that we should take a dosage of his pill called FORGIVENESS as often as occasions arise. This is for self-healing and for liberating others from the tomb of our hearts. Remember: “this is how my Father in heaven will treat everyone of you unless you forgive your brother from your heart.”
Today’s Saint and Quote: St. John Chrystom – September 13th
What the soul is in the body, let Christians be in the world.
Personal Devotional
Protect me, O God; I trust in you for safety. I say to the Lord, “You are my Lord; all the good things I have comes from you.” Psalm 16:1, 2
- O Lord, let me experience your power and victory in every area of my life in the name of Jesus.
- Lord let every chain of life binding me from moving forward in life be broken today in the name of Jesus.
- I revoke by the fire of the Holy Ghost, every evil pronouncement made against me in the name of Jesus.
- I command all curses of impossibilities in my life to expire in the name of Jesus.
Let Us Pray
I bind and render useless and powerless in my life and business you spirit of stagnation, confusion, evil collaborators, demonic frustration, marginal success in my business and work in the name of Jesus. Amen
MONDAY September 18, 2023
Weekday (24)
Vestment: Green
Today’s Rosary: The Joyful Mystery
Death Anniversary: AHIARA: Bishop Victor Chikwe-16/09/2010
-FIRST READING-
A reading from the first Letter of Saint Paul to Timothy (1Timothy 2:1-8)
Let prayers be made for all men to God, who desires all men to be saved.
Beloved: First of all, I urge that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings be made for all men, for kings and all who are in high positions, that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life, godly and respectful in every way. This is good, and it is acceptable in the sight of God our Saviour, who desires all men to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth. 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, the testimony to which was given at the proper time. For this I was appointed a preacher and apostle (I am telling the truth, I am not lying), a teacher of the Gentiles in faith and truth. I desire then that in every place the men should pray, lifting holy hands without anger or quarrelling.
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Psalm28:2.7.8-9 (R.6)
R. Blest be the Lord, for he has heard the sound of my appeal.
Hear the voice of my pleading
As I call to you for help, as I raise my hands
Toward your holy place. R.
The Lord is my strength and my shield;
in him my heart trusts.
I was helped; my heart rejoices,
and I praise him with my song. R.
The Lord is the strength of his people,
A saving refuge for his anointed.
Save your people and bless your heritage.
Shepherd them and carry them forever. R.
ALLELUIA John3:16
Alleluia. God so loved the world that he gave his only-begotten Son; that whoever believes in him should have eternal life. Alleluia.
-GOSPEL-
A reading from the holy Gospel according to Luke (Luke 7: 1-10)
“Not even in Israel have I found such faith.”
At that time: After Jesus had ended all his sayings in the hearing of the people he entered Capernaum. Now a centurion had a slave who was dear to him, who was sick and at the point of death. When he heard of Jesus, he sent to him elders of the Jews, asking him to come and heal his slave. And when they came to Jesus, they begged him earnestly, saying, “He is worthy to have you do this for him, for he loves our nation, and he built us our synagogue." And Jesus went with them. When he was not far from the house, the centurion sent friends to him, saying to him, “Lord, do not trouble yourself, for I am not worthy to have you come under my roof; therefore I did not presume to come to you. But say the word, and let my servant be healed. For I am a man set under authority, with soldiers under me: and I say to one, ‘Go,’ and he goes; and to another, ‘Come, ’and he comes; and to my slave, ‘Do this, ’and he does it.” When Jesus heard this he marveled at him, and turned and said to the multitude that followed him, “I tell you, not even in Israel have I found such faith.” And when those who had been sent returned to the house, they found the slave well.
The Gospel of the Lord.
Today’s Reflection
The centurion has several virtues worthy of our imitation: 1. Despite having great authority and influence, he shows much love and concern toward his slave who is sick. 2. He also loves the Jews and has built a temple for them. He breaks down the communal barriers that divide people. Although he is a powerful non-Jewish soldier, he goes to beg the Jewish elders to mediate for him with Jesus, to come and heal his slave. 3. He is a man of humility. Despite his position, he calls Jesus. ‘Lord’ and expresses his unworthiness to receive him in his house. 4. He is a man of deep faith. He believes in the power of Jesus to heal his slave even from a distance, just by one word.
Personal Devotional
Listen! I stand at the door and knock; if anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in and eat with them and they will eat with me. Revelation 3:20
- Plead for mercy – that God should forgive you in any way you might have sold yourself out or have allowed the enemy to take away your blessings.
- Let heaven trouble every persons or group who have taken what belongs to me in the name of Jesus.
- I release my helper to come to me now, in the name of Jesus Christ.
Let Us Pray
Lord, make me an instrument of your peace. Where there is hatred, let me sow love. Where there is injury, pardon. Where there is doubt, faith. Where there is despair, hope. Where there is darkness, light. Where there is sadness, joy. O Divine Master, grant that I may not so much seek to be consoled as to console. To be understood as to understand, to be loved as to love. For it is in giving that we receive, it is in pardoning that we are pardoned, and it is in dying that we are born to Eternal Life. Amen.
THE MIRACULOUS 54-DAY ROSARY NOVENA, 8TH SEPT. TO 31ST OCT. 2023.
FIRST 27 DAYS IN PETITION
Day 11: THE JOYFUL MYSTERIES
Petition: Let us pray for Our Youths carried away by the false ideology of our generation that through the intercession of Our Mother Mary God should open their eyes and direct them alright we pray O Lord.
1. + In the name of the Father, and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit Sign of the cross.
2. Hail Mary.
3. Prayer before the recitation of the rosary
Hail, Queen of the Most Holy Rosary, my Mother Mary, hail! At thy feet I humbly kneel to offer thee a Crown of Roses, full-blown white roses, tinged with the red of the passion, to remind thee of thy glories, fruits of the sufferings of thy Son and thee, each rose recalling to thee a holy mystery, each 10 bound together with my petition for a particular grace. O Holy Queen, dispenser of God’s graces, and Mother of all who invoke thee! Thou canst not look upon my gift and fail to see its binding. As thou receivest my gift, so wilt thou receive my petition; from thy bounty thou wilt give me the favor I so earnestly and trustingly seek. I despair of nothing that I ask of thee. Show thyself my Mother!
4. Say: The Apostles’ Creed, Our Father, 3 Hail Marys, Glory Be.
For each of the following Mysteries, say: Our Father, 10 Hail Marys, Glory Be.
5. The Resurrection – Our Father, 10 Hail Marys, Glory Be.
Concluding Prayer: I bind these full-blown roses with a petition for the virtue of faith and humbly lay this bouquet at thy feet.
The Ascension – Our Father, 10 Hail Marys, Glory Be.
Concluding Prayer: I bind these full-blown roses with a petition for the virtue of hope and humbly lay this bouquet at thy feet.
The Descent of the Holy Spirit – Our Father, 10 Hail Marys, Glory Be.
Concluding Prayer: I bind these full-blown roses with a petition for the virtue of charity and humbly lay this bouquet at thy feet.
The Assumption of Mary – Our Father, 10 Hail Marys, Glory Be.
Concluding Prayer: I bind these full-blown roses with a petition for the virtue of union with Christ and humbly lay this bouquet at thy feet.
The Coronation of the Blessed Mother – Our Father, 10 Hail Marys, Glory Be.
Concluding Prayer: I bind these full-blown roses with a petition for the virtue of union with thee and humbly lay this bouquet at thy feet.
6. Say: The Hail Holy Queen.
7. Let us pray: O God whose only begotten son by his life death………..
8. Litany of the Blessed Virgin Mary
9. Sweet Mother Mary, I offer thee this spiritual communion to bind my bouquets in a wreath to place upon thy brow. O my Mother! Look with favor upon my gift, and in thy love obtain for me (specify request). Hail Mary …
10. + In the name of the Father, and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit amen.
TUESDAY September 19, 2023
Weekday (24)
Vestment: Green
Today’s Rosary: The Sorrowful Mystery
-FIRST READING-
A reading from the first Letter of Saint Paul to Timothy (1Timothy 3:1-13)
A bishop must be above reproach; deacons likewise must hold the mystery of the faith with a clear conscience.
Beloved: The saying is sure: If any one aspires to the office of bishop, he desires a noble task. Now a bishop must be above reproach, the husband of one wife, temperate, sensible, dignified, hospitable, an apt teacher, no drunkard, not violent but gentle, not quarrelsome, and no lover of money. He must manage his own household well, keeping his children submissive and respectful in every way; for if a man does not know how to manage his own household, how can he care for God’s Church? He must not be a recent convert, or he may be puffed up with conceit and fall into the condemnation of the devil; moreover he must be well thought of by outsiders, or he may fall into reproach and the snare of the devil. Deacons likewise must be serious, not double—tongued, not addicted to much wine, not greedy for gain; they must hold the mystery of the faith with a clear conscience. And let them also be tested first; then if they prove themselves blameless let them serve as deacons. The women likewise must be serious, no slanderers, but temperate, faithful in all things. Let deacons be the husband of one wife, and let them manage their children and their households well; for those who serve well as deacons gain a good standing for themselves and also great confidence in the faith which is in Christ Jesus.
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Psalm101:1-2ab.2cd-3ab.5.6 (R. 2c)
R. I will walk with blameless heart.
I sing of merciful love and justice;
I raise a psalm to you, O Lord.
I will ponder the way of the blameless.
O when will you come to me? R.
I will walk with blameless heart within my house;
I will not set before my eyes whatever is base. R.
Whoever slanders a neighbour in secret
I will bring to silence.
Proud eyes and haughty heart I will never endure. R.
My eyes are on the faithful of the land,
that they may dwell with me.
The one who walks in the way of the blameless
shall be my servant. R.
ALLELUIA Luke 7:16
Alleluia. A great prophet has arisen among us, and God has visited his people. Alleluia.
-GOSPEL-
A reading from the holy Gospel according to Luke (Luke 7:11- l7)
“Young man, I say to you, arise.”
At that time: Jesus went to a city called Nain, and his disciples and a great crowd went with him. As he drew near to the gate of the city, behold, a man who had died was being carried out, the only son of his mother, and she was a widow; and a large crowd from the city was with her. And when the Lord saw her, he had compassion on her and said to her, “Do not weep.” And he came and touched the bier, and the bearers stood still. And he said, “Young man, I say to you, arise.” And the dead man sat up, and began to speak. And he gave him to his mother. Fear seized them all; and they glorified God, saying, “A great prophet has arisen among us!” and “God has visited his people!” And this report concerning him spread through the whole of Judea and all the surrounding country.
The Gospel of the Lord.
Today’s Reflection
The gospel of today shows Jesus compassion towards the poor and the less privileged. The plight of a widow in Jesus’ days was miserable. And in this case her condition is all the more pitiable as she lost her only son. Jesus very well understood her situation and brought her dead son back to life. “And he gave him to his mother.” The main focus of this miracle is not the man who died and came back to life, but the widow whose miserable plight has been reversed by the compassionate action of the Lord. The Lord understands our plight and comes to our aid in all circumstances of life.
THE MIRACULOUS 54-DAY ROSARY NOVENA, 8TH SEPT. TO 31ST OCT. 2023.
FIRST 27 DAYS IN PETITION
Day 12: THE JOYFUL MYSTERIES
Petition: Let us pray for all our family members, wherever they may be, through the intercession of our Mother Mary, that God should provide for them and grant their heart desires, we pray O Lord.
1. + In the name of the Father, and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit Sign of the cross.
2. Hail Mary.
3. Prayer before the recitation of the rosary
Hail, Queen of the Most Holy Rosary, my Mother Mary, hail! At thy feet I humbly kneel to offer thee a Crown of Roses, snow white buds to remind thee of thy joys, each bud recalling to thee a holy mystery, each 10 bound together with my petition for a particular grace. O Holy Queen, dispenser of God’s graces, and Mother of all who invoke thee, thou canst not look upon my gift and fail to see its binding. As thou receivest my gift, so wilt thou receive my petition; from thy bounty thou wilt give me the favor I so earnestly and trustingly seek. I despair of nothing that I ask of thee. Show thyself my Mother!
4. The Apostles’ Creed, Our Father, 3 Hail Marys, Glory Be.
5.The Annunciation – Our Father, 10 Hail Marys, Glory Be.
Concluding Prayer: I bind these snow-white buds with a petition for the virtue of humility and humbly lay this bouquet at thy feet.
The Visitation – Our Father, 10 Hail Marys, Glory Be.
Concluding Prayer: I bind these snow-white buds with a petition for the virtue of charity and humbly lay this bouquet at thy feet.
The Nativity – Our Father, 10 Hail Marys, Glory Be.
Concluding Prayer: I bind these snow-white buds with a petition for the virtue of detachment from the world and humbly lay this bouquet at thy feet.
The Presentation – Our Father, 10 Hail Marys, Glory Be.
Concluding Prayer: I bind these snow-white buds with a petition for the virtue of purity and humbly lay this bouquet at thy feet.
Finding the Child Jesus in the Temple – Our Father, 10 Hail Marys, Glory Be.
Concluding Prayer: I bind these snow-white buds with a petition for the virtue of obedience to the will of God and humbly lay this bouquet at thy feet.
6. The Hail Holy Queen.
7. Let us pray: O God whose only begotten son by his life death………..
8. Litany of the Blessed Virgin Mary
9. Sweet Mother Mary, I offer thee this spiritual communion to bind my bouquets in a wreath to place upon thy brow. O my Mother! Look with favor upon my gift, and in thy love obtain for me (specify request). Hail Mary …
10. + In the name of the Father, and of The son and of the Holy Spirit amen.
WEDNESDAY September 20, 2023
Weekday (24)
Vestment: Red
Today’s Rosary: The Glorious Mystery
-FIRST READING-
A reading from the first Letter of Saint Paul to Timothy (1 Timothy 3:14-16)
“Great indeed is the mystery of our religion.”
Beloved: I hope to come to you soon, but I am writing these instructions to you so that, if I am delayed, you may know how one ought to behave in the household of God, which is the Church of the living God, the pillar and bulwark of the truth. Great indeed, we confess, is the mystery of our religion: He was manifested in the flesh, vindicated in the Spirit, seen by angels, preached among the nations, believed on in the world, taken up in glory.
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Psalm 111:1b-2.3-4.5-6 (R.2a)
R. Great are the works of the Lord.
Or: Alleluia.
I will praise the Lord with all my heart,
In the meeting of the just and the assembly.
Great are the works of the Lord,
to be pondered by all who delight in them. R.
Majestic and glorious his work;
his justice stands firm forever.
He has given us a memorial of his wonders.
The Lord is gracious and merciful. R.
He gives food to those who fear him;
Keeps his covenant ever in mind.
His mighty works he has shown to his people
by giving them the heritage of nations. R.
ALLELUIA John 6:63c.68c
Alleluia. Your words, Lord, are Spirit and life; you have the words of eternal life. Alleluia.
-GOSPEL-
A reading from the holy Gospel according to Luke (Luke7:31-35)
“We piped to you, and you did not dance, we wailed, and you did not weep.”
At that time: Jesus said, “To what then shall I compare the men of this generation, and what are they like? They are like children sitting in the market place and calling to one another, ‘We piped to you, and you did not dance; we wailed, and you did not weep.’ For John the Baptist has come eating no bread and drinking no wine; and you say, ‘He has a demon.’ The Son of man has come eating and drinking; and you say, ‘Behold, a glutton and a drunkard, a friend of tax collectors and sinners! Yet wisdom is justified by all her children.”
The Gospel of the Lord.
Today’s Reflection
Jesus expresses his disappointment at the stubbornness and lack of openness in the people of his time. because they have the opportunity to see and listen to both john the Baptist and Christ the Savior, they are the most privileged generation. However, like children, they have one excuse or another for not accepting their teachings and changing their lives. They find fault with the messengers in order to reject the message. Thus they miss the opportunity to welcome the saviour into their lives. Attitudes of pride, stubbornness, ingratitude and lack of openness are serious blocks to our salvation. The man who receives one talent has many excuses for not multiplying it (Mt 25:24-25). But those who take the risk of multiplying the talents are rewarded with more.
Personal Devotional
“If they pray to me and repent and turn away from the evil they have been doing, then I will hear them in heaven, forgive their sins, and make their land prosperous again”.. 2 Chronicles 7:14
- Meditate on the words of God you’ve just read.
Let Us Pray
Lord Jesus Christ, take all my freedom, my memory, my understanding, and my will. All that I have and cherish you have given me. I surrender it all to be guided by your will. Your love and your grace are wealth enough for me. Give me these, Lord Jesus, and I ask for nothing more. Amen.
THE MIRACULOUS 54-DAY ROSARY NOVENA, 8TH SEPT. TO 31ST OCT. 2023.
FIRST 27 DAYS IN PETITION
Day 13: THE GLORIOUS MYSTERIES
Petition: Let us pray for all our brothers and sisters in diaspora that through the intercession of Our Mother Mary God should watch over them and make their sojourn in foreign land a success and blessing we pray O Lord.
1. + In the name of the Father, and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit Sign of the cross.
2. Hail Mary.
3. Prayer before the recitation of the rosary
Hail, Queen of the Most Holy Rosary, my Mother Mary, hail! At thy feet I humbly kneel to offer thee a Crown of Roses, blood red roses to remind thee of the passion of thy divine Son, with Whom thou didst so fully partake of its bitterness, each rose recalling to thee a holy mystery, each 10 bound together with my petition for a particular grace. O Holy Queen, dispenser of God’s graces, and Mother of all who invoke thee! Thou canst not look upon my gift and fail to see its binding. As thou receivest my gift, so wilt thou receive my petition; from thy bounty thou wilt give me the favor I so earnestly and trustingly seek. I despair of nothing that I ask of thee. Show thyself my Mother!
4. Say: The Apostles’ Creed, Our Father, 3 Hail Marys, Glory Be.
5. The Agony in the Garden – Our Father, 10 Hail Marys, Glory Be.
Concluding Prayer: I bind these blood red roses with a petition for the virtue of resignation to the will of God and humbly lay this bouquet at thy feet.
The Scourging at the Pillar – Our Father, 10 Hail Marys, Glory Be.
Concluding Prayer: I bind these blood red roses with a petition for the virtue of mortification and humbly lay this bouquet at thy feet.
The Crowning with Thorns – Our Father, 10 Hail Marys, Glory Be.
Concluding Prayer: I bind these blood red roses with a petition for the virtue of humility and humbly lay this bouquet at thy feet.
The Carrying of the Cross – Our Father, 10 Hail Marys, Glory Be.
Concluding Prayer: I bind these blood red roses with a petition for the virtue of patience in adversity and humbly lay this bouquet at thy feet.
The Crucifixion – Our Father, 10 Hail Marys, Glory Be.
Concluding Prayer: I bind these blood red roses with a petition for the virtue of love of our enemies and humbly lay this bouquet at thy feet.
6.Say: The Hail Holy Queen.
7. Let us pray: O God whose only begotten son by his life death………..
8. Litany of the Blessed Virgin Mary
9. Sweet Mother Mary, I offer thee this spiritual communion to bind my bouquets in a wreath to place upon thy brow. O my Mother! Look with favor upon my gift, and in thy love obtain for me (specify request). Hail Mary …
10. + In the name of the Father, and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit amen.
THURSDAY September 21, 2023
Weekday (24)
Vestment: Red
Today’s Rosary: The Luminous Mystery
SAINT MATTHEW, Apostle and Evangelist Feast
Born at Capernaum, this tax collector, also known as Levi, was called to discipleship by the Lord as he was sitting at his customs office. Tradition holds that he wrote a collection of sayings of Jesus in Aramaic, and inspired the Gospel which bears his name. The Gospel of Matthew is addressed to a Jewish community, and presents Jesus as the fulfilment of the Old Testament prophesies concerning the Messiah. Matthew is said to have preached the faith in the East.
Entrance Antiphon Cf.Mt 25:19-20
Go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them and teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you, says the Lord.
Collect
O God, who with untold mercy were pleased to choose as an Apostle Saint Matthew, the tax collector, grant that, sustained by his example and intercession, we may merit to hold firm in following you. Through our Lord...
-FIRST READING-
A reading from the Letter of Saint Paul to the Ephesians (Ephesians 4: 1-7.11-13)
His gifts were that some should be apostles, some evangelists,
Brethren: I, a prisoner for the Lord, beg you to walk in a manner worthy of the calling to which you have been called, with all lowliness and meekness, with patience, forbearing one another in love, eager to maintain the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace. There is one body and one Spirit, just as you were called to the one hope that belongs to your call, one Lord, one faith, one baptism, one God and Father of us all, who is above all and through all and in all. But grace was given to each of us according to the measure of Christ’s gift. And his gifts were that some should be apostles, some prophets, some evangelists, some pastors and teachers, for the equipment of the saints, for the work of ministry, for building up the body of Christ, until we all attain to the unity of the faith and of the knowledge of the Son of God, to mature manhood, to the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ.
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Psalm 19:2-3.4-5 (R.5a)
R/. Their sound goes forth through all the earth.
The heavens declare the glory of God,
and the firmament proclaims the work of his hands.
Day unto day conveys the message,
and night unto night imparts the knowledge. R/.
No speech, no word, whose voice goes unheeded;
their sound goes forth through all the earth,
their message to the utmost bounds of the world. R/.
ALLELUIA
Alleluia. We praise you, O God; we acclaim you as the Lord; the glorious band of apostles sings your praise, O Lord! Alleluia.
-GOSPEL-
A reading from the holy Gospel according to Matthew (Matthew 9:9-13)
Follow me. And he rose and followed him.
At that time: As Jesus passed on, he saw a man called Matthew sitting at the tax office; and he said to him, “Follow me.” And he rose and followed him. And as he sat at table in the house, behold, many tax collectors and sinners came and sat down with Jesus and his disciples. And when the Pharisees saw this, they said to his disciples, “Why does your teacher eat with tax collectors and sinners?” But when he heard it, he said, “Those who are well have no need of a physician, but those who are sick. Go and learn what this means, ‘I desire mercy, and not sacrifice.’ For I came not to call the righteous, but sinners.”
The Gospel of the Lord.
Today’s Reflection
Matthew, the tax-collector, has earned enough money through his unpopular yet lucrative profession. But in society he is considered an outcast and public sinner because of the nature of his profession and the way he and other tax collectors carry out their duty. However, for Jesus, he is a man in need of healing and restoration of his human dignity. Jesus sees his heart burning with the desire for a change. When Jesus calls Matthew, he responds immediately and that brings him great peace and joy. He celebrates the occasion in the company of Jesus and his fellow tax collectors. One person’s response of conversion brings many others to the Lord. The joy of conversion is contagious. A deep experience of the presence of the Lord can change us and change others who come in contact with us.
Personal Devotional
There is no other god like you, O Lord ; you forgive the sins of your people who have survived. You do not stay angry for ever, but you take pleasure in sowing us your constant love. You will be merciful to us once again. You will show your faithfulness and constant love to your people, as you promised our ancestors long ago. Micah 7:18ff
Let us Pray
Teach us, good Lord, to serve you as you deserve; to give and not to count the cost; to fight and not to heed the wounds; to toil and not to seek for rest; to labour and not ask for any reward, save that of knowing that we do your will. Amen.
THE MIRACULOUS 54-DAY ROSARY NOVENA, 8TH SEPT. TO 31ST OCT. 2023.
FIRST 27 DAYS IN PETITION
Day 14: THE SORROWFUL MYSTERIES
Petition: Let us pray for all those held down by generational and ancestral courses that through the intercession of Our Mother Mary, God should turn the curses into blessings we pray O Lord.
1. + In the name of the Father, and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit Sign of the cross.
2. Hail Mary.
3. Prayer before the recitation of the rosary
Hail, Queen of the Most Holy Rosary, my Mother Mary, hail! At thy feet I humbly kneel to offer thee a Crown of Roses, blood red roses to remind thee of the passion of thy divine Son, with Whom thou didst so fully partake of its bitterness, each rose recalling to thee a holy mystery, each 10 bound together with my petition for a particular grace. O Holy Queen, dispenser of God’s graces, and Mother of all who invoke thee! Thou canst not look upon my gift and fail to see its binding. As thou receivest my gift, so wilt thou receive my petition; from thy bounty thou wilt give me the favor I so earnestly and trustingly seek. I despair of nothing that I ask of thee. Show thyself my Mother!
4. Say: The Apostles’ Creed, Our Father, 3 Hail Marys, Glory Be.
5. The Agony in the Garden – Our Father, 10 Hail Marys, Glory Be.
Concluding Prayer: I bind these blood red roses with a petition for the virtue of resignation to the will of God and humbly lay this bouquet at thy feet.
The Scourging at the Pillar – Our Father, 10 Hail Marys, Glory Be.
Concluding Prayer: I bind these blood red roses with a petition for the virtue of mortification and humbly lay this bouquet at thy feet.
The Crowning with Thorns – Our Father, 10 Hail Marys, Glory Be.
Concluding Prayer: I bind these blood red roses with a petition for the virtue of humility and humbly lay this bouquet at thy feet.
The Carrying of the Cross – Our Father, 10 Hail Marys, Glory Be.
Concluding Prayer: I bind these blood red roses with a petition for the virtue of patience in adversity and humbly lay this bouquet at thy feet.
The Crucifixion – Our Father, 10 Hail Marys, Glory Be.
Concluding Prayer: I bind these blood red roses with a petition for the virtue of love of our enemies and humbly lay this bouquet at thy feet.
6. Say: The Hail Holy Queen.
7. Let us pray: O God who’s only begotten son by his life death………..
8. Litany of the Blessed Virgin Mary
9. Sweet Mother Mary, I offer thee this spiritual communion to bind my bouquets in a wreath to place upon thy brow. O my Mother! Look with favor upon my gift, and in thy love obtain for me (specify request). Hail Mary …
10. + In the name of the Father, and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit amen.
FRIDAY September 22, 2023
Weekday (24)
Vestment: Red
Today’s Rosary: The Sorrowful Mystery
S. ANDREW KIM TAEGON & COMP., M. (Memorial)
-FIRST READING-
A reading from the first Letter of Saint Paul to Timothy (1 Timothy 6:2c-12)
“But as for you, man of God, aim at righteousness.”
Beloved: Teach and urge these duties. If any one teaches otherwise and does not agree with the sound words of our Lord Jesus Christ and the teaching which accords with godliness, he is puffed up with conceit, he knows nothing; he has a morbid craving for controversy and for disputes about words, which produce envy, dissension, slander, base suspicions, and wrangling among man who are depraved in mind and bereft of the truth, imagining that godliness is a means of gain. There is great gain in godliness With contentment; for we brought nothing into the world, and we cannot take anything out of the world; but if we have food and clothing, with these we shall be content. But those who desire to be rich fall into temptation, into a snare, into many senseless and hurtful desires that plunge men into ruin and destruction. For the love of money is the root of all evils; it is through this craving that some have wandered away from the faith and pierced their hearts with many pangs. But as for you, man of God, shun all this; aim at righteousness, godliness, faith, love, steadfastness, gentleness. Fight the good fight of the faith; take hold of the eternal life to which you were called when you made the good confession in the presence of many witnesses.
The word of the Lord
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Ps49:6-7.8-10.17-18.19-20 (R. Mt 5:3)
R/. Blessed are the poor in spirit,
For theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
Why should I fear in evil days
The malice of the foes who surround me,
Those who trust in their wealth,
And boast of the vastness of their riches? R/.
No man can ransom a brother,
Nor pay a price to God for his life.
How high is the price of his soul!
The ransom can never be enough!
No one can buy life unending,
Nor avoid coming to the grave. R/.
Then do not fear when a man grows rich,
When the glory of his house increases.
He takes nothing with him when he dies;
His glory does not follow him below. R/.
R/. Blessed are the poor in spirit,
For theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
Though he flattered himself while he lived,
“People will praise me for all my success,”
Yet he will go to join his forebears,
And will never see the light any more. R/.
ALLELUIA Matthew11:25
Alleluia. Blessed are you, Father, Lord of heaven and. earth, that you have revealed to little ones the mysteries of the kingdom. Alleluia.
-GOSPEL-
A reading from the holy Gospel according to Luke (Luke 8:1-3)
“There were women with them who provided for them out of their means.”
At that time: Jesus went on through cities and villages, preaching and bringing the good news of the kingdom of God. And the Twelve were with him, and also some women who had been healed of evil spirits and infirmities: Mary, called Magdalene, from whom seven demons had gone out, and Joanna, the wife of Chuza Herod’s steward, and Susanna, and many others, who provided for them out of their means.
The Gospel of the Lord.
Today’s Reflection
St Luke deliberately lists the women who accompany Jesus in his mission of “preaching and bringing the good news of the kingdom of God”. This highlights the role of women in the work of evangelization. While society looks down upon and oppresses women as persons with no dignity or status, Jesus upholds their dignity, befriends them and includes them in his work of salvation. For Jesus, men and women have equal status even if their roles differ. The role and duties of women in evangelization are irreplaceable. The church needs both women and men to complement one another in building up the kingdom of God.
Personal Devotional
“When the day comes, you will not ask me for anything. I am telling you the truth: the Father will give you whatever you ask him for in my name. Until now you have not asked for anything in my name; ask and you will receive, so that your happiness may be complete”. John 16:23.24
THE MIRACULOUS 54-DAY ROSARY NOVENA, 8TH SEPT. TO 31ST OCT. 2023.
FIRST 27 DAYS IN PETITION
Day 13: THE JOYFUL MYSTERIES
Petition: Let us pray for all those going through financial difficulties, that through the intercession of our Mother Mary, God should come quickly to their aid and provide for them we pray O Lord.
1. + In the name of the Father, and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit Sign of the cross.
2. Hail Mary.
3. Prayer before the recitation of the rosary
Hail, Queen of the Most Holy Rosary, my Mother Mary, hail! At thy feet I humbly kneel to offer thee a Crown of Roses, snow white buds to remind thee of thy joys, each bud recalling to thee a holy mystery, each 10 bound together with my petition for a particular grace. O Holy Queen, dispenser of God’s graces, and Mother of all who invoke thee, thou canst not look upon my gift and fail to see its binding. As thou receivest my gift, so wilt thou receive my petition; from thy bounty thou wilt give me the favor I so earnestly and trustingly seek. I despair of nothing that I ask of thee. Show thyself my Mother!
4. The Apostles’ Creed, Our Father, 3 Hail Marys, Glory Be.
5. The Annunciation – Our Father, 10 Hail Marys, Glory Be.
Concluding Prayer: I bind these snow-white buds with a petition for the virtue of humility and humbly lay this bouquet at thy feet.
The Visitation – Our Father, 10 Hail Marys, Glory Be.
Concluding Prayer: I bind these snow-white buds with a petition for the virtue of charity and humbly lay this bouquet at thy feet.
The Nativity – Our Father, 10 Hail Marys, Glory Be.
Concluding Prayer: I bind these snow-white buds with a petition for the virtue of detachment from the world and humbly lay this bouquet at thy feet.
The Presentation – Our Father, 10 Hail Marys, Glory Be.
Concluding Prayer: I bind these snow-white buds with a petition for the virtue of purity and humbly lay this bouquet at thy feet.
Finding the Child Jesus in the Temple – Our Father, 10 Hail Marys, Glory Be.
Concluding Prayer: I bind these snow-white buds with a petition for the virtue of obedience to the will of God and humbly lay this bouquet at thy feet.
6. The Hail Holy Queen.
7. Let us pray: O God whose only begotten son by his life death………..
8. Litany of the Blessed Virgin Mary
9. Sweet Mother Mary, I offer thee this spiritual communion to bind my bouquets in a wreath to place upon thy brow. O my Mother! Look with favor upon my gift, and in thy love obtain for me (specify request). Hail Mary …
10. + In the name of the Father, and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit amen.
Saturday September 23, 2023
Weekday (24).
Vestment: White
Today’s Rosary: The Joyful Mystery
B. V. M on Saturday
-FIRST READING-
“Keep the commandment unstained until the appearing of the Lord.”
A reading from the first Letter of Saint Paul to Timothy (1Timothy 6:13-16).
Beloved: In the presence of God who gives life to all things, and of Christ Jesus who in his testimony before Pontius Pilate made the good confession, I charge you to keep the commandment unstained and free from reproach until the appearing of our Lord Jesus Christ; and this will be made manifest at the proper time by the blessed and only Sovereign, the King of kings and Lord of lords, who alone has immortality and dwells in unapproachable light, whom no man has ever seen or can see. To him be honour and eternal dominion. Amen.
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Psa1in 100:1-2.3.4.5 (R.2b).
R. Come before the Lord, singing for joy.
Cry out with joy to the Lord, all the earth.
Serve the Lord with gladness.
Come before him, singing for joy. R.
Know that he, the Lord, is God.
He made us; we belong to him.
We are his people, the sheep of his flock. R.
Enter his gates with thanksgiving
and his courts with songs of praise.
Give thanks to him, and bless his name. R.
R. Come before the Lord, singing for joy.
Indeed, how good is the Lord,
eternal his merciful love.
He is faithful from age to age. R.
ALLELUIA Luke 8:15
Alleluia. Blessed are those who, hearing the word, hold it fast in an honest and good heart, and bring forth fruit with patience. Alleluia.
-GOSPEL-
“As for the seed in the good soil, they are those who hold fast and bring forth fruit with patience.”
A reading from the holy Gospel according to Luke (Luke 8:4-15).
At that time: When a great crowd came together and people from town after town came to him, he said in a parable: “A sower went out to sow his seed; and as he sowed, some fell along the path, and was trodden under foot, and the birds of the air devoured it. And some fell on the rock; and as it grew up, it withered away, because it had no moisture. And some fell among thorns; and the thorns grew with it and choked it. And some fell into good soil and grew, and yielded a hundred fold.” As he said this, he called out, “He who has ears to hear, let him hear.” And when his disciples asked him what this parable meant, he said, “To you it has been given to know the secrets of the kingdom of God; but for others they are in parables, so that seeing they may not see, and hearing they may not understand. Now the parable is this: The seed is the word of God. The ones along the path are those who have heard; then the devil comes and takes away the word from their hearts, that they may not believe and be saved. And the ones on the rock are those who, when they hear the word, receive it with joy; but these have no root, they believe for a while and in time of temptation fall away. And as for what fell among the thorns, they are those who hear, but as they go on their way they are choked by the cares and riches and pleasures of life, and their fruit does not mature. And as for that in the good soil, they are those who, hearing the word, hold it fast in an honest and good heart, and bring forth fruit with patience.”
The Gospel of the Lord.
Today’s Reflection
In today’s parable, Jesus tells us that the seed is the word of God. We may not be aware of how the world is sown in our life. We may not be aware of all that goes into keeping the word alive and how the world affects us. We may take the word for granted. We may not be aware of our wasting opportunities to learn from the word we may not know that we have the choice to continue sowing the word by our life example. The seed that is the word of God is love. Love has been sown in each one of us with God’s superabundant generosity. We must take care to tend this precious seed and harvest its gift of compassion, forgiveness, peace, and kindness, so that the world may taste the love of God.
Today’s Saint and Quote: St Joseph of Cupertino – September 18th
- Clearly, what God wants above all is our will which we received as a free gift from God in creation and possess as though our own.
- When a man trains himself to acts of virtue, it is with the help of grace from God from whom all good things come that he does this.
- The will is what man has as his unique possession.
Personal Devotional
“If they pray to me and repent and turn away from the evil they have been doing, then I will hear them in heaven, forgive their sins, and make their land prosperous again”.. - 2 Chronicles 7:14
- Meditate on the words of God you’ve just read.
Let Us Pray
Lord Jesus Christ, take all my freedom, my memory, my understanding, and my will. All that I have and cherish you have given me. I surrender it all to be guided by your will. Your love and your grace are wealth enough for me. Give me these, Lord Jesus, and I ask for nothing more. Amen.
THE MIRACULOUS 54-DAY ROSARY NOVENA
FIRST 27 DAYS IN PETITION
Day 16: THE SORROWFUL MYSTERIES
1. Sign of the Cross:
In the name of the Father, and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit Amen
PERSONAL INTENTION: Let us pray for all our brothers and sisters in diaspora that through the intercession of Our Mother Mary God should watch over them and make their sojourn in foreign land a success and blessing we pray O Lord
2. Hail Mary:
Hail Mary, full of grace, The Lord is with Thee; Blessed art thou among women, And blessed is the fruit of thy womb, Jesus. Holy Mary, Mother of God, Pray for us sinners, now and at the hour of our death. Amen
3. IN PETITION (First 27 Days):
Hail, Queen of the Most Holy Rosary, my Mother Mary, hail! At thy feet I humbly kneel to offer thee a Crown of Roses, snow white buds to remind thee of thy joys, each bud recalling to thee a holy mystery, each 10 bound together with my petition for a particular grace. O Holy Queen, dispenser of God’s graces, and Mother of all who invoke thee, thou canst not look upon my gift and fail to see its binding. As thou receivest my gift, so wilt thou receive my petition; from thy bounty thou wilt give me the favor I so earnestly and trustingly seek. I despair of nothing that I ask of thee. Show thyself my Mother!
4. Say:
- The Apostles’ Creed,
- Our Father,
- 3 Hail Mary’s,
- Glory Be.
5. The Agony in the Garden – Our Father, 10 Hail Mary’s, Glory Be.
Concluding Prayer: I bind these blood red roses with a petition for the virtue of resignation to the will of God and humbly lay this bouquet at thy feet.
The Scourging at the Pillar – Our Father, 10 Hail Mary’s, Glory Be.
Concluding Prayer: I bind these blood red roses with a petition for the virtue of mortification and humbly lay this bouquet at thy feet.
The Crowning with Thorns – Our Father, 10 Hail Mary’s, Glory Be.
Concluding Prayer: I bind these blood red roses with a petition for the virtue of humility and humbly lay this bouquet at thy feet.
The Carrying of the Cross – Our Father, 10 Hail Mary’s, Glory Be.
Concluding Prayer: I bind these blood red roses with a petition for the virtue of patience in adversity and humbly lay this bouquet at thy feet.
The Crucifixion – Our Father, 10 Hail Mary’s, Glory Be.
Concluding Prayer: I bind these blood red roses with a petition for the virtue of love of our enemies and humbly lay this bouquet at thy feet.
6. Say: The Hail Holy Queen.
Hail Holy Queen, Mother of mercy, hail Our life, our sweetness, and our hope. To thee do we cry, poor banished children of Eve. To thee do we send up our sighs, mourning and weeping in this valley of tears. Turn then, most gracious advocate, thine eyes of mercy towards us. And after this, our exile, show unto us the blessed fruit of thy womb, Jesus. O clement O loving O sweet Virgin Mary.
V/. Pray for us oh holy mother of God.
R/. That we may be made worthy of the promises of Christ.
7. Let us pray: O God whose only begotten son by his life death………..
8. Litany of the Blessed Virgin Mary (optional)
9. Let us pray: Sweet Mother Mary, I offer thee this spiritual communion to bind my bouquets in a wreath to place upon thy brow. O my Mother! Look with favor upon my gift, and in thy love obtain for me (specify request).
HAIL MARY;
Hail Mary, full of grace, The Lord is with Thee; Blessed art thou among women, And blessed is the fruit of thy womb, Jesus. Holy Mary, Mother of God, Pray for us sinners, now and at the hour of our death. Amen
10. In the name of the Father, and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit amen.
– Promise of Our Lady of the Most Holy Rosary
Whoever desires to obtain favors from Me should make three novenas of the prayers of the Rosary, and three novenas in thanksgiving.”
- Fr Richard Heilman February 7, 2016
Sunday September 24, 2023
25TH SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME
Vestment: Green
Today’s Rosary: The Glorious Mystery
Theme of the Sunday: God Does Not Think the Way People Do. The message of the gospel today may confuse us. This would be a good sign because it would mean that we realize how our thoughts are different from God’s. The first reading puts us on our guard against trying to pull God down to our level, pretending that his thoughts are our thoughts. But his thoughts are as far from ours as heaven is far from the earth. In the second reading we are given the example of Paul. He did not work for a reward, though he knew that he had worked harder than anybody else (1Cor15:10). His reward was the, ability to love what God gave him.
Entrance Antiphon
I am the salvation of the people, says the Lord. Should they cry to me in any distress, I will hear them, and I will be their Lord forever.
Collect
O God, who founded all the commands of your sacred Law upon love of you and of our neighbour, grant that, by keeping your precepts, we may merit to attain eternal life. Through our Lord. ..
-FIRST READING-
“My thoughts are not your thoughts.”
A reading from the Book of Isaiah (Isaiah 55:6-9)
Seek the Lord while he may be found, call upon him while he is near; let the wicked forsake his way, and the unrighteous man his thoughts; let him return to the Lord, that he may have mercy on him, and to our God, for he will abundantly pardon. For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, says the Lord. For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts.
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Psalm145:2-3.8—9.17-18 (R.18a)
R/. The Lord is close to all who call him.
I will bless you day after day,
and praise your name forever and ever.
The Lord is great and highly to be praised;
his greatness cannot be measured. R.
The Lord is kind and full of compassion,
slow to anger, abounding in mercy.
How good is the Lord to all,
compassionate to all his creatures. R.
The Lord is just in all his ways,
and holy in all his deeds.
The Lord is close to all who call him,
who call on him in truth. R.
-SECOND READING-
“For to me to live is Christ.”
A reading from the Letter of Saint Paul to the Philippians (Philippians 1:20c-24.27a)
Brethren: Christ will be honoured in my body, whether by life or by death. For to me to live is Christ, and to die is gain. If it is to be life in the flesh, that means fruitful labour for me. Yet which I shall Choose I cannot tell. I am hard pressed between the two. My desire is to depart and be with Christ, for that is far better. But to remain in the flesh is more necessary on your account. Only let your manner of life be worthy of the Gospel of Christ.
The word of the Lord.
ALLELUIA Acts16:14b
Alleluia. Open our hearts, O Lord,that we may listen to the words of your Son. Alleluia.
-GOSPEL-
“Do you begrudge my generosity?”
A reading from the holy Gospel according to Matthew (Matthew 20: 1-16)
At that time: Jesus told his disciples this parable: “The kingdom of heaven is like a householder who went out early in the morning to hire labourers for his vineyard. After agreeing with the labourers for a denarius a day, he sent them into his vineyard. And going out about the third hour he saw others standing. Idle in the market place; and to them he said, ‘You go into the vineyard too, and whatever is right I will give you.’ So they went. “Going out again about the sixth hour and the ninth hour, he did the same. And about the eleventh hour he went out and found others standing; and he said to them, ‘Why do you stand here idle all day?’ “They said to him, ‘Because no one has hired us.’ “He said to them, ‘You go into the vineyard too.’ “And when evening came, the owner of the vineyard said to his steward, ‘Call the labourers and pay them their wages, beginning with the last, up to the first.’ And when those hired about the eleventh hour came, each of them received a denarius. Now when the first came, they thought they would receive more; but each of them also received a denarius. And on receiving it they grumbled at the householder, saying, ‘These last worked only one hour, and you have made them equal to us who have borne the burden of the day and the scorching heat.’ “But he replied to one of them, ‘Friend, I am doing you no wrong; did you not agree with me for a denarius? Take what belongs to you, and go; I choose to give to this last as I give to you. Am I not allowed to do what 1 choose with what belongs to me? Or do you begrudge my generosity?’ So the last will be first, and the first last.”
The Gospel of the Lord.
Prayer of the Faithful
God’s ways are not our ways.
PRIEST: My brothers and sisters, God our Father has revealed the kingdom of heaven to us through the teaching of his Son. Today, we ask the Lord for a greater understanding of his plan for mankind.
READER:
FOR THE CHURCH, (pause) may her teaching about God’s kingdom, to which she leads everyone, be simple and direct, and touch people’s hearts as well as their minds. (pause) Lord, hear us; and teach us your ways we pray Oh Lord.
FOR THOSE IN CHARGE OF INDUSTRY, (pause) may they reconcile profits for their companies with the rights and dignity of each individual worker, so that the purpose of work in God’s plan is not debased. (pause) Lord, hear us; and teach us your ways we pray Oh Lord.
FOR THOSE WHO ARE UNEMPLOYED, (pause) may they use their time well to reflect on life, and not become bitter, depressed or lazy, but pray that the Lord will open new avenues of employment for them. (pause) Lord, hear us; and teach us your ways we pray Oh Lord.
For a spirit of thanksgiving that we have the health to work, (pause) may we count our blessings that we can work each day, and may we perform all our tasks with gladness and dedication. (pause). Lord, hear us; and teach us your ways we pray Oh Lord.
We pray in silence for our own intentions.
PRIEST:
Father, we pray to you that we may understand your ways, and continually praise you for all your gifts to us. Through Christ our Lord. Amen.
Today’s Reflection
The parable of workers in the vineyard may not fit into the ideal working conditions of the business world. In the ideal business world, each is employed and rewarded according to the length of labour and probably, years of experience. But in the language of heaven, the pay is not based on the length of labour and energy but on grace. Those who started the faith early and have lived it for years and those who have come to the faith very late or towards the end of their years of life on earth, the lord rewards all equally. He rewards each out of a heart of care: mercy is shown to the latecomers, a full wage; justice is shown to eager workers, a full wage. Our life in God is a demonstration of God’s care and grace.
Personal Devotional
“When the day comes, you will not ask me for anything. I am telling you the truth: the Father will give you whatever you ask him for in my name. Until now you have not asked for anything in my name; ask and you will receive, so that your happiness may be complete”. John 16:23.24
MONDAY September 25, 2023
Weekday (25)
Vestment: White
Today’s Rosary: The Joyful Mystery
-FIRST READING-
The beginning of the Book of Ezra (Ezra 1:1-6)
“Whoever is among you of all his people, let him go up to Jerusalem and rebuild the house of the Lord.”
In the first year of Cyrus king of Persia, that the word of the Lord by the mouth of Jeremiah might be accomplished, the Lord stirred up the spirit of Cyrus king of Persia so that he made a proclamation throughout all his kingdom and also put it in writing: “Thus says Cyrus king of Persia: The Lord, the God of heaven, has given me all the kingdoms of the earth, and he has charged me to build him a house at Jerusalem, which is in Judah. Whoever is among you of all his people, may his God be with him, and let him go up to Jerusalem, which is in Judah, and rebuild the house of the Lord, the God of Israel — he is the God who is in Jerusalem; and let each survivor, in whatever place he sojourns, be assisted by the men of his place with silver and gold, with goods and with beasts, besides free will offerings for the house of God which is in Jerusalem.” Then rose up the heads of the fathers’ houses of Judah and Benjamin, and the priests and the Levites, every one whose spirit God had stirred to go up to rebuild the house of the Lord which is in Jerusalem; and all who were about them aided them with vessels of silver, with gold, with goods, with beasts, and with costly wares, besides all that was freely offered.
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Psalm126:1-2ab.2cd-3.4-5.6 (R.3a)
R/. What great deeds the Lord has worked for us!
When the Lord brought back the exiles of Sion,
we thought we were dreaming.
Then was our mouth filled with laughter;
on our tongues, songs of joy. R/.
Then the nations themselves said,
“What great deeds
The Lord worked for them!”
What great deeds the Lord worked for us!
Indeed, we were glad. R/.
R/. What great deeds the Lord has worked for us!
Bring back our exiles, O Lord,
As streams in the south.
Those who are sowing in tears
will sing when they reap. R/.
They go out, they go out, full of tears,
bearing seed for the sowing;
they come back, they come back with a song,
bearing their sheaves. R/.
ALLELUIA Matthew 5:16
Alleluia. Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father. Alleluia.
-GOSPEL-
A reading from the holy Gospel according to Luke (Luke 8:16-18)
Place your light on a stand that those who enter may see the light.
At that time: Jesus said to the crowds, “No one after lighting a lamp covers it with a vessel, or puts it under a bed, but puts it on a stand, that those who enter may see the light. For nothing is hidden that shall not be made manifest, nor anything secret that shall not be known and come to light. Take heed then how you hear; for to him who has will more be given, and from him who has not, even what he thinks that he has will be taken away.”
The Gospel of the Lord.
Today’s Reflection
The purpose of lighting a lamp is to dispel darkness and brighten up the area. This is possible if the lighted lamp is kept on a lamp stand. Light exposes everything around it. Jesus tells us: “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will not walk in darkness but have the light of life” (John 8:12). Jesus is the light that brightens up our lives and leads us to the light of life, that is, eternal life. St Padre Pio experienced the light of Christ profoundly in his life and radiated that light to others through his life of holiness. Each of us is called to be a bearer of the light of Christ so that “those who enter may see the light”.
Personal Devotional
Children, listen to me; I am your father. Do what I tell you and you will be safe, for the Lord as given fathers authority over their children and given children the obligation to obey their mothers. If you respect your father you can make up for your sins, if your obey the Lord by honouring your father and making your mother happy you will live a long life. Sirach 3:1ff
Let Us Pray
Thanks be to you, my Lord Jesus Christ, for all the benefits which you have given me, for all the pains and insults which you have borne for me. O most merciful Redeemer, friend and brother, may I know you more clearly, love you more dearly, and follow you more nearly, day by day. Amen.
Blessing for the New Week
Lord God, it is with a heart full of joy and appreciation that we welcome this day and this new week. Thank you for making us see the light of the day. May all glory be to your name.
We will go to work and business, our children will go to school and some of us will travel. We ask you to take care of us and protect us from all evil. Shower your blessings upon us so that this day and the entire week shall be fruitful for us all.
Increase our faith in you at all times like the centurion O God so that we will depend totally on you and you will see us through our challenges. May the miracle that happened to the Centurion be our lot in this new week. Amen.
I wish you the very best of this new week my beloved friend. Go out today and believe that you will succeed. Put in your best, be kind to people and you will by joyful at the end of the day.
God always be near to protect and bless you. Be good to people and goodness will come your way. Amen
Meditation: 1Timothy 2:1-8 / Luke 7:1-10
THE MIRACULOUS 54-DAY ROSARY NOVENA, 8TH SEPT. TO 31ST OCT. 2023.
FIRST 27 DAYS IN PETITION
Day 18: THE JOYFUL MYSTERIES
Petition: Let us pray for families with difficult and uncontrollable children, that through the intercession of our Mother Mary, God should take possession of their hearts and direct then we pray O Lord.
1. + In the name of the Father, and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit Sign of the cross.
2. Hail Mary.
3. Prayer before the recitation of the rosary
Hail, Queen of the Most Holy Rosary, my Mother Mary, hail! At thy feet I humbly kneel to offer thee a Crown of Roses, snow white buds to remind thee of thy joys, each bud recalling to thee a holy mystery, each 10 bound together with my petition for a particular grace. O Holy Queen, dispenser of God’s graces, and Mother of all who invoke thee, thou canst not look upon my gift and fail to see its binding. As thou receivest my gift, so wilt thou receive my petition; from thy bounty thou wilt give me the favor I so earnestly and trustingly seek. I despair of nothing that I ask of thee. Show thyself my Mother!
4. The Apostles’ Creed, Our Father, 3 Hail Marys, Glory Be.
5. The Annunciation – Our Father, 10 Hail Marys, Glory Be.
Concluding Prayer: I bind these snow-white buds with a petition for the virtue of humility and humbly lay this bouquet at thy feet.
The Visitation – Our Father, 10 Hail Marys, Glory Be.
Concluding Prayer: I bind these snow-white buds with a petition for the virtue of charity and humbly lay this bouquet at thy feet.
The Nativity – Our Father, 10 Hail Marys, Glory Be.
Concluding Prayer: I bind these snow-white buds with a petition for the virtue of detachment from the world and humbly lay this bouquet at thy feet.
The Presentation – Our Father, 10 Hail Marys, Glory Be.
Concluding Prayer: I bind these snow-white buds with a petition for the virtue of purity and humbly lay this bouquet at thy feet.
Finding the Child Jesus in the Temple – Our Father, 10 Hail Marys, Glory Be.
Concluding Prayer: I bind these snow-white buds with a petition for the virtue of obedience to the will of God and humbly lay this bouquet at thy feet.
6. The Hail Holy Queen.
7. Let us pray: O God whose only begotten son by his life death………..
8. Litany of the Blessed Virgin Mary
9. Sweet Mother Mary, I offer thee this spiritual communion to bind my bouquets in a wreath to place upon thy brow. O my Mother! Look with favor upon my gift, and in thy love obtain for me (specify request). Hail Mary …
10. + In the name of the Father, and of The son and of the Holy Spirit amen.
TUESDAY September 26, 2023
Weekday (25)
Vestment: Green
Today’s Rosary: The Sorrowful Mystery
-FIRST READING-
A reading from the Book of Ezra (Ezra 6:7-8.l2b.14-20)
They finished the house of God, and kept the Passover.
In those days: Darius the king wrote to the governors of the province Beyond the River, “Let the work on this house of God alone; let the governor of the Jews and the elders of the Jews rebuild this house of God on its site. Moreover I make a decree regarding what you shall do for these elders of the Jews for the rebuilding of this house of God; the cost is to be paid to these men in full and without delay from the royal revenue, the tribute of the province from Beyond the River. I Darius make a decree; let it be done with all diligence.” And the elders of the Jews built and prospered, through the prophesying of Haggai the prophet and Zechariah the son of Iddo. They finished their building by command of the God of Israel and by decree of Cyrus and Darius and Artaxerxes king of Persia; and this house was finished on the third day of the month of Adar, in the sixth year of the reign of Darius the king. And the sons of Israel, the priests and the Levites, and the rest of the returned exiles, celebrated the dedication of this house of God with joy. They offered at the dedication of this house of God one hundred bulls, two hundred rams, four hundred lambs, and as a sin offering for all Israel twelve he-goats, according to the number of the tribes of Israel. And they set the priests in their divisions and the Levites in their courses, for the service of God at Jerusalem, as it is written in the book of Moses. On the fourteenth day of the first month the returned exiles kept the Passover. For the priests and the Levites had purified themselves together; all of them were clean. So they killed the Passover lamb for all the returned exiles, for their fellow priests, and for themselves.
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Psalm122:1-2.3-4ab.4cd-5 (R. see 1)
R/. Let us go rejoicing to the house of the Lord.
I rejoiced when they said to me,
“Let us go to the house of the Lord.”
And now our feet are standing
within your gates, O Jerusalem. R/.
Jerusalem is built as a city
bonded as one together.
It is there that the tribes go up,
the tribes of the Lord. R/.
For Israel’s witness it is
To praise the name of the Lord.
There were set the thrones for judgement,
The thrones of the house of David. R/.
ALLELUIA Luke 11:28
Alleluia. Blessed are those who hear the word of God, and keep it. Alleluia.
-GOSPEL-
A reading from the holy Gospel according to Luke (Luke 8:19-21)
“My mother and my brethren are those who hear the word of God and do it.”
At that time: His mother and his brethren came to Jesus, but they could not reach him for the crowd. And he was told, “Your mother and your brethren are standing outside, desiring to see you.” But he said to them, “My mother and my brethren are those who hear the word of God and do it.”
The Gospel of the Lord.
Today’s Reflection
Today’s short Gospel passage teaches us the profound truth of who are the true kindred of Jesus. Mary carries out the will of God her whole life, starting with her consent at the annunciation. She ponders the angel’s message as the will of God for her life (Luke 2:19). She gives birth to the Son of God. She follows her Son to Calvary. Her spiritual kinship with Jesus in carrying out the will of God is greater than her biological motherhood of Jesus. She is the first to “hear the word of God and do it”. We become a brother/sister of Jesus by hearing the word of God and practicing it in our lives.
Personal Devotional
Listen! I have given you authority, so that you can walk on snakes and scorpions and overcome all the power of the Enemy, and nothing will hurt you. Luke 10:19
Let Us Pray
Most sweet Jesus, the love of the saints, set my love on fire for you. Transform me into yourself, divinize me that my deeds and thoughts may be pleasing to you. May this be accomplished by the Power of your Spirit which I plead that you do not take away from me. Oh, how great my soul tastes and desires you now. Releases upon me a fresh outpouring of your Spirit, O Lord!
THE MIRACULOUS 54-DAY ROSARY NOVENA, 8TH SEPT. TO 31ST OCT. 2023.
FIRST 27 DAYS IN PETITION
Day 19: THE SORROWFUL MYSTERIES
Petition: Let us pray for widows and widowers in our midst that through the intercession of Our Mother Mary, God should take care of them in his own special way we pray O Lord.
1. + In the name of the Father, and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit Sign of the cross.
2. Hail Mary.
3. Prayer before the recitation of the rosary
Hail, Queen of the Most Holy Rosary, my Mother Mary, hail! At thy feet I humbly kneel to offer thee a Crown of Roses, blood red roses to remind thee of the passion of thy divine Son, with Whom thou didst so fully partake of its bitterness, each rose recalling to thee a holy mystery, each 10 bound together with my petition for a particular grace. O Holy Queen, dispenser of God’s graces, and Mother of all who invoke thee! Thou canst not look upon my gift and fail to see its binding. As thou receivest my gift, so wilt thou receive my petition; from thy bounty thou wilt give me the favor I so earnestly and trustingly seek. I despair of nothing that I ask of thee. Show thyself my Mother!
4. Say: The Apostles’ Creed, Our Father, 3 Hail Marys, Glory Be.
5.The Agony in the Garden – Our Father, 10 Hail Marys, Glory Be.
Concluding Prayer: I bind these blood red roses with a petition for the virtue of resignation to the will of God and humbly lay this bouquet at thy feet.
The Scourging at the Pillar – Our Father, 10 Hail Marys, Glory Be.
Concluding Prayer: I bind these blood red roses with a petition for the virtue of mortification and humbly lay this bouquet at thy feet.
The Crowning with Thorns – Our Father, 10 Hail Marys, Glory Be.
Concluding Prayer: I bind these blood red roses with a petition for the virtue of humility and humbly lay this bouquet at thy feet.
The Carrying of the Cross – Our Father, 10 Hail Marys, Glory Be.
Concluding Prayer: I bind these blood red roses with a petition for the virtue of patience in adversity and humbly lay this bouquet at thy feet.
The Crucifixion – Our Father, 10 Hail Marys, Glory Be.
Concluding Prayer: I bind these blood red roses with a petition for the virtue of love of our enemies and humbly lay this bouquet at thy feet.
6. Say: The Hail Holy Queen.
7. Let us pray: O God whose only begotten son by his life death………..
8. Litany of the Blessed Virgin Mary
9. Sweet Mother Mary, I offer thee this spiritual communion to bind my bouquets in a wreath to place upon thy brow. O my Mother! Look with favor upon my gift, and in thy love obtain for me (specify request). Hail Mary …
10. + In the name of the Father, and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit amen.
WEDNESDAY September 27, 2023
Weekday (25)
Vestment: White
Today’s Rosary: The Glorious Mystery
-FIRST READING-
A reading from the Book of Ezra (Ezra 9:5-9)
Our God has not forsaken us in our bondage.
At the evening sacrifice I, Ezra, rose from my fasting, with my garments and my mantle torn, and fell upon my knees and spread out my hands to the Lord my God, saying: “O my God, I am ashamed and blush to lift my face to you, my God, for our iniquities have risen higher than our heads, and our guilt has mounted up to the heavens. From the days of our fathers to this day we have been in great guilt; and for our iniquities we, our kings, and our priests have been given into the hand of the kings of the lands, to the sword, to captivity, to plundering, and to utter shame, as at this day. But now for a brief moment favour has been shown by the Lord our God, to leave us a remnant, and to give us a secure hold within his holy place, that our God may brighten our eyes and grant us a little reviving in our bondage. For we are bondmen; yet our God has not forsaken us in our bondage, but has extended to us his mercy before the kings of Persia, to grant us some reviving to set up the house of our God, to repair its ruins, and to give us protection in Judea and Jerusalem.”
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Tobit13:l b-2.3-4a.6efgh.8 (R.1b)
R/. Blessed is God, who lives forever.
Blessed is God who lives forever,
and blessed is his kingdom.
For he afflicts, and he shows mercy;
he leads down to Hades, and brings up again,
and there is no one who can escape his hand. R/.
Acknowledge him before the nations,
O sons of Israel;
for he has scattered us among them.
Make his greatness known there. R/.
R/. Blessed is God, who lives forever.
But see what he will do with you;
give thanks to him with your full voice.
Praise the Lord of righteousness,
and exalt the King of the ages. R/.
I give him thanks in the land of my captivity,
and I show his power and his majesty
to a nation of sinners. R/.
Bless the Lord, all you his chosen ones,
all of you, praise his glory.
Celebrate days of joy, and give thanks to him R/.
ALLELUIA Mark 1:15
Alleluia. The kingdom of God is at hand; repent, and believe in the Gospel. Alleluia.
-GOSPEL-
A reading from the holy Gospel according to Luke (Luke 9:1-6)
“He sent them out to preach the kingdom of God and to heal.”
At that time: Jesus called the Twelve together and gave them power and authority over all demons and to cure diseases, and he sent them out to preach the kingdom of God and to heal. And he said to them, “Take nothing for your journey, no staff, nor bag, nor bread, nor money; and do not have two tunics. And whatever house you enter, stay there, and from there depart. And wherever they do not receive you, when you leave that town shake off the dust from your feet as a testimony against them.” And they departed and went through the villages, preaching the gospel and healing everywhere.
The Gospel of the Lord.
Today’s Reflection
Jesus gave his apostles “the power and authority “over all demons and to cure diseases”. And he sent them out “to preach the kingdom of God and to heal”. These two mandates define the role of an apostle. He has to be aware of the presence of evil forces and fight and defeat them. He has to pray over and cure diseases and preach the arrival of the kingdom of God. An apostle can do this only if he trusts in the power and authority of God who calls, empowers and sends him out. Relying on one’s own power and authority and preaching one’s own message would lead to rejection and failure. However, the one who called and sent him is in command.
Personal Devotional
Make the following declaration, “away from me Satan! For I will worship the Lord my God and serve him only. Get behind me Satan for you no longer have dominion over me. You can no longer constitute a stumbling block to me and my enterprise. My Lord has given me authority to trample on snakes and scorpions and overcome all the powers of the enemy. Nothing will harm me. My Lord has given me the boldness, courage and spiritual strength to stand against you Satan, today. Glory be to His name. Amen.
Let Us Pray
God, grant me the wisdom that would make me focused and firm-minded. It is only in this that I can have clear understanding of your plan and enter into the fullness of your purpose for my life. Grant me the grace not to go about trying to think out the formula for situations facing me. But help me to always ASK in FAITH in the name of Jesus Christ. Amen. Protect me from evil friends and demonic agents.
THE MIRACULOUS 54-DAY ROSARY NOVENA, 8TH SEPT. TO 31ST OCT. 2023.
FIRST 27 DAYS IN PETITION
Day 20: THE GLORIOUS MYSTERIES
Petition: Let us pray for Business people that going through tough times, that through the intercession of Our Mother Mary, God should give them the spirit of perseverance and restore their businesses we pray O Lord.
1. + In the name of the Father, and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit Sign of the cross.
2. Hail Mary.
3. Prayer before the recitation of the rosary
Hail, Queen of the Most Holy Rosary, my Mother Mary, hail! At thy feet I humbly kneel to offer thee a Crown of Roses, full-blown white roses, tinged with the red of the passion, to remind thee of thy glories, fruits of the sufferings of thy Son and thee, each rose recalling to thee a holy mystery, each 10 bound together with my petition for a particular grace. O Holy Queen, dispenser of God’s graces, and Mother of all who invoke thee! Thou canst not look upon my gift and fail to see its binding. As thou receivest my gift, so wilt thou receive my petition; from thy bounty thou wilt give me the favor I so earnestly and trustingly seek. I despair of nothing that I ask of thee. Show thyself my Mother!
4. Say: The Apostles’ Creed, Our Father, 3 Hail Marys, Glory Be.
5. For each of the following Mysteries, say: Our Father, 10 Hail Marys, Glory Be.
The Resurrection – Our Father, 10 Hail Marys, Glory Be.
Concluding Prayer: I bind these full-blown roses with a petition for the virtue of faith and humbly lay this bouquet at thy feet.
The Ascension – Our Father, 10 Hail Marys, Glory Be.
Concluding Prayer: I bind these full-blown roses with a petition for the virtue of hope and humbly lay this bouquet at thy feet.
The Descent of the Holy Spirit – Our Father, 10 Hail Marys, Glory Be.
Concluding Prayer: I bind these full-blown roses with a petition for the virtue of charity and humbly lay this bouquet at thy feet.
The Assumption of Mary – Our Father, 10 Hail Marys, Glory Be.
Concluding Prayer: I bind these full-blown roses with a petition for the virtue of union with Christ and humbly lay this bouquet at thy feet.
The Coronation of the Blessed Mother – Our Father, 10 Hail Marys, Glory Be.
Concluding Prayer: I bind these full-blown roses with a petition for the virtue of union with thee and humbly lay this bouquet at thy feet.
6. Say: The Hail Holy Queen.
7. Let us pray: O God whose only begotten son by his life death………..
8. Litany of the Blessed Virgin Mary
9. Sweet Mother Mary, I offer thee this spiritual communion to bind my bouquets in a wreath to place upon thy brow. O my Mother! Look with favor upon my gift, and in thy love obtain for me (specify request). Hail Mary …
10. + In the name of the Father, and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit amen.
THURSDAY September 28, 2023
Weekday (25)
Vestment: Red
Today’s Rosary: The Luminous Mystery
-FIRST READING-
The beginning of the Book of the Prophet Haggai (Haggai 1:1 -8)
“Build the house, that I may take pleasure in it.”
In the second year of Darius the king, in the sixth month, on the first day of the month, the word of the Lord came by Haggai the prophet to Zerubbabel the son of Shealtiel, governor of Judah, and to Joshua the son of Jehozadak, the high priest, “Thus says the Lord of hosts: This people say the time has not yet come to rebuild the house of the Lord.” Then the word of the Lord came by Haggai the prophet, “Is it a time for you yourselves to dwell in your panelled houses, while this house lies in ruins? Now therefore thus says the Lord of hosts: Consider how you have fared. You have sown much, and harvested little; you eat, but you never have enough; you drink, but you never have your fill; you clothe yourselves, but no one is warm; and he who earns wages earns wages to put them into a bag with holes. “Thus says the Lord of hosts: Consider how you have fared. Go up to the hills and bring wood and build the house, that I may take pleasure in it and that I may appear in my glory, says the Lord.”
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSAL Psalm149:1-2.3-4.5-6a and 9bc (R.4a)
R/.The Lord takes delight in his people.
Or: Alleluia.
Sing a new song to the Lord,
His praise in the assembly of the faithful.
Let Israel rejoice in its Maker;
Let Sion’s children exult in their king. R/.
Let them praise his name with dancing,
and make music with timbrel and harp.
For the Lord takes delight in his people;
he crowns the poor with salvation. R/.
Let the faithful exult in glory,
and rejoice as they take their rest.
Let the praise of God be in their mouths.
This is an honour for all his faithful. R/.
ALLELUIA John14:6
Alleluia. I am the way, and the truth, and the life, says the Lord; no one comes to the Father, but by me. Alleluia.
-GOSPEL-
A reading from the holy Gospel according to Luke (Luke 9:7-9)
“John I beheaded,’ but who is this about whom I hear such things?”
At that time: Herod the tetrarch heard of all that was done by Jesus, and he was perplexed, because it was said by some that John had been raised from the dead, by some that Elijah had appeared, and by others that one of the old prophets had risen. Herod said, “John I beheaded; but who is this about whom I hear such things?” And he sought to see him.
The Gospel of the Lord.
Today’s Reflection
Herod’s assertion, “John I beheaded…” betrays his sense of guilt and fear. Jesus’ arrival on the scene makes Herod suspect and fear that the one he had beheaded has come back to life to haunt him. He is weighed down by his own guilt and consequently lacks peace and joy in life. He seeks to see Jesus only to rule out the possibility that it is john. We are governed by our decisions and actions. Our good decisions and actions will follow us all through life, bringing us peace and joy. Our bad decisions and action will haunt us all through life, taking away our peace and joy.
Personal Devotional
-Pray for the grace to sustain a deeper conversion with Jesus as regards your challenges.
-Pray for those who are at the edge of giving up on God, that their faith will be strengthened.
Let Us Pray
I declare that I will love my neighbor by refusing to house a judgmental spirit. I refuse to focus on the sin in my neighbor’s life as opposed to the sin in my own. I will, however, be bold enough to challenge my neighbor in love and to pray for areas of bondage, pain, injustice, and sin in his life. I will love my neighbor by understanding that love doesn’t always feel sure, but often challenges and calls out something greater so that he can experience the fullness of Christ.
THE MIRACULOUS 54-DAY ROSARY NOVENA, 8TH SEPT. TO 31ST OCT. 2023.
FIRST 27 DAYS IN PETITION
Day 21: THE JOYFUL MYSTERIES
Petition: Let us pray for all those looking for life partner that through the intercession of our Mother Mary, God should provide for them and grant their heart desires. We pray O Lord.
1. + In the name of the Father, and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit Sign of the cross.
2. Hail Mary.
3. Prayer before the recitation of the rosary
Hail, Queen of the Most Holy Rosary, my Mother Mary, hail! At thy feet I humbly kneel to offer thee a Crown of Roses, snow white buds to remind thee of thy joys, each bud recalling to thee a holy mystery, each 10 bound together with my petition for a particular grace. O Holy Queen, dispenser of God’s graces, and Mother of all who invoke thee, thou canst not look upon my gift and fail to see its binding. As thou receivest my gift, so wilt thou receive my petition; from thy bounty thou wilt give me the favor I so earnestly and trustingly seek. I despair of nothing that I ask of thee. Show thyself my Mother!
4. The Apostles’ Creed, Our Father, 3 Hail Marys, Glory Be.
5. The Annunciation – Our Father, 10 Hail Marys, Glory Be.
Concluding Prayer: I bind these snow-white buds with a petition for the virtue of humility and humbly lay this bouquet at thy feet.
The Visitation – Our Father, 10 Hail Marys, Glory Be.
Concluding Prayer: I bind these snow-white buds with a petition for the virtue of charity and humbly lay this bouquet at thy feet.
The Nativity – Our Father, 10 Hail Marys, Glory Be.
Concluding Prayer: I bind these snow-white buds with a petition for the virtue of detachment from the world and humbly lay this bouquet at thy feet.
The Presentation – Our Father, 10 Hail Marys, Glory Be.
Concluding Prayer: I bind these snow-white buds with a petition for the virtue of purity and humbly lay this bouquet at thy feet.
Finding the Child Jesus in the Temple – Our Father, 10 Hail Marys, Glory Be.
Concluding Prayer: I bind these snow-white buds with a petition for the virtue of obedience to the will of God and humbly lay this bouquet at thy feet.
6. The Hail Holy Queen.
7. Let us pray: O God whose only begotten son by his life death………..
8. Litany of the Blessed Virgin Mary
9. Sweet Mother Mary, I offer thee this spiritual communion to bind my bouquets in a wreath to place upon thy brow. O my Mother! Look with favor upon my gift, and in thy love obtain for me (specify request). Hail Mary …
10. + In the name of the Father, and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit amen.
Friday September 29, 2023
Weekday (26).
Vestment: White
Today’s Rosary: The Glorious Mystery
ENUGU: Tomorrow is the 48th anniversary of the episcopal ordination of Most Revd Anthony Gbuji, Bishop Emeritus, 30th September 1973.
SAINTS MICHAEL, GABRIEL and RAPHAEL, archangels (Feast)
Today we celebrate the feast of the three archangels who are mentioned in the Bible by name: Michael, the protector of the people of God, Gabriel, the messenger of good news and Raphael, the healer in the book of Tobit. This feast recalls the dedication of the Basilica of Saint Michael the Archangel in Rome in the fifth century.
Entrance Antiphon cf. Ps103:20
Bless the Lord, all you his angels, mighty in power, fulfilling his word, and heeding his voice.
The Gloria in excels (Glory to God in the highest) is said.
Collect
O God, who dispose in marvellous order ministries both angelic and human, graciously grant, that our life on earth may be defended by those who watch over us as they minister perpetually to you in heaven. Through our Lord...
-FIRST READING-
A thousand thousands served him.
A reading from the Book of the Prophet Daniel (Daniel 7:9-10.13-14).
As I looked, thrones were placed and one that was ancient of days took his seat; his clothing was white as snow, and the hair of his head like pure wool; his throne was fiery flames, its wheels were burning fire. A stream of fire issued and came forth from before him; a thousand thousands served him, and ten thousand times ten thousands stood before him; the court sat in judgement, and the books were opened. I saw in the night visions, and behold, with the clouds of heaven there came one like a son of man, and he came to the Ancient of Days and was presented before him. And to him was given dominion and glory and kingdom, that all peoples, nations, and languages should serve him; his dominion is an everlasting dominion, which shall not pass away, and his kingdom one that shall not be destroyed.
The word of the Lord.
Or the following:
-FIRST READING-
Michael and his angels were fighting against the dragon.
A reading from the Book of Revelation (Revelation 12:7-12a).
War arose in heaven, Michael and his angels fighting against the dragon; and the dragon and his angels fought, but they were defeated and there was no longer any place for them in heaven. And the great dragon was thrown down, that ancient serpent, who is called the Devil and Satan, the deceiver of the whole world — he was thrown down to the earth, and his angels were thrown down with him. And I heard a loud voice in heaven, saying, “Now the salvation and the power and the kingdom of our God and the authority of his Christ have come, for the accuser of our brethren has been thrown down, who accuses them day and night before our God. And they have conquered him by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their testimony, for they loved not their lives even unto death. Rejoice then, O heaven and you that dwell there in!”
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Psalm138: 1-2a.2bcd-3.4-5 (R. see lb).
R. In the presence of the angels I praise you, O Lord.
I thank you, Lord, with all my heart;
you have heard the words of my mouth.
In the presence of the angels I praise you.
I bow down towards your holy temple. R.
I give thanks to your name
for your merciful love and your faithfulness.
You have exalted your name and your promise overall.
On the day I called, you answered me;
you increased the strength of my soul. R.
All earth’s kings shall thank you, O Lord,
when they hear the words of your mouth.
They shall sing of the ways of the Lord,
How great is the glory of the Lord!” R.
ALLELUIA Psalm 103:21
Alleluia. Bless the Lord, all you his hosts, his ministers that do his will. Alleluia.
-GOSPEL-
You will see the angels of God ascending and descending upon the Son of man.
A reading from the holy Gospel according to John (John 1:47-51).
At that time: Jesus saw Nathanael coming to him, and said of him, “Behold, an Israelite indeed, in whom is no guile!” Nathanael said to him, “How do you know me?” Jesus answered him, “Before Philip called you, when you were under the fig tree, I saw you.” Nathanael answered him, “Rabbi, you are the Son of God! You are the King of Israel!” Jesus answered him, “Because I said to you, I saw you under the fig tree, do you believe? You shall see greater things than these.” And he said to him, “Truly, truly, I say to you, you will see heaven opened, and the angels of God ascending and descending upon the Son of man.”
The Gospel of the Lord.
Today’s Reflection
All three Archangels are God’s messengers. Michael is God’s messenger in battle with the devil; Gabriel was God’s messenger to Mary; Raphael is God’s messenger of healing. Jesus speaks of himself as the son of Man on whom the angels of God ascend and descend. If the archangels are God’s messengers, Jesus is God’s most complete messenger, because he is God in human form. Later in John’s Gospel, Jesus said to his disciples, “As his father has sent me, so I send you.” Jesus sends us out as his messengers; we are all called to share in the Lord’s work of bringing his good news to humanity. In that sense, the archangels whose feast we celebrate today remind us of our own fundamental calling.
THE MIRACULOUS 54-DAY ROSARY NOVENA
FIRST 27 DAYS IN PETITION
Day 22: THE JOYFUL MYSTERIES
1. Sign of the Cross:
In the name of the Father, and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit Amen
PERSONAL INTENTION: Let us pray for all those participating in this Miraculous 54-Day Rosary Novena, that through the intercession of Our Mother Mary, God will hear and answer our prayers and grant us our heart desires we pray O Lord.
2. Hail Mary:
Hail Mary, full of grace, The Lord is with Thee; Blessed art thou among women, And blessed is the fruit of thy womb, Jesus. Holy Mary, Mother of God, Pray for us sinners, now and at the hour of our death. Amen
3. Hail, Queen of the Most Holy Rosary, my Mother Mary, hail! At thy feet I humbly kneel to offer thee a Crown of Roses, snow white buds to remind thee of thy joys, each bud recalling to thee a holy mystery, each 10 bound together with my petition for a particular grace. O Holy Queen, dispenser of God’s graces, and Mother of all who invoke thee, thou canst not look upon my gift and fail to see its binding. As thou receivest my gift, so wilt thou receive my petition; from thy bounty thou wilt give me the favor I so earnestly and trustingly seek. I despair of nothing that I ask of thee. Show thyself my Mother!
4. Say:
- The Apostles’ Creed,
- Our Father,
- 3 Hail Marys,
- Glory Be.
5. The Annunciation:-
Our Father, 10 Hail Mary’s’, Glory Be.
CONCLUDING PRAYER:
I bind these snow-white buds with a petition for the virtue of humility and humbly lay this bouquet at thy feet.
6. The Visitation: –
Our Father, 10 Hail Mary’s, Glory Be.
CONCLUDING PRAYER:
I bind these snow-white buds with a petition for the virtue of charity and humbly lay this bouquet at thy feet.
7. The Nativity :–
Our Father, 10 Hail Mary’s, Glory Be.
CONCLUDING PRAYER:
I bind these snow-white buds with a petition for the virtue of detachment from the world and humbly lay this bouquet at thy feet.
9. The Presentation:–
Our Father, 10 Hail Mary’s, Glory Be.
CONCLUDING PRAYER:
I bind these snow-white buds with a petition for the virtue of purity and humbly lay this bouquet at thy feet.
10. Finding the Child Jesus in the Temple:–
Our Father, 10 Hail Mary’s, Glory Be.
CONCLUDING PRAYER:
I bind these snow-white buds with a petition for the virtue of obedience to the will of God and humbly lay this bouquet at thy feet.
11. Say: The Hail Holy Queen.
Hail Holy Queen, Mother of mercy, hail Our life, our sweetness, and our hope. To thee do we cry, poor banished children of Eve. To thee do we send up our sighs, mourning and weeping in this valley of tears. Turn then, most gracious advocate, thine eyes of mercy towards us. And after this, our exile, show unto us the blessed fruit of thy womb, Jesus. O clement O loving O sweet Virgin Mary.
V/. Pray for us oh holy mother of God.
R/. That we may be made worthy of the promises of Christ.
12. Let us pray: O God whose only begotten son by his life death………..
13. Litany of the Blessed Virgin Mary (optional)
14.Let us pray: Sweet Mother Mary, I offer thee this spiritual communion to bind my bouquets in a wreath to place upon thy brow. O my Mother! Look with favor upon my gift, and in thy love obtain for me (specify request).
15. HAIL MARY;
Hail Mary, full of grace, The Lord is with Thee; Blessed art thou among women, And blessed is the fruit of thy womb, Jesus. Holy Mary, Mother of God, Pray for us sinners, now and at the hour of our death. Amen
16. In the name of the Father, and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit amen.
– Promise of Our Lady of the Most Holy Rosary
Whoever desires to obtain favors from Me should make three novenas of the prayers of the Rosary, and three novenas in thanksgiving.”
- Fr Richard Heilman February 7, 2016
SATURDAY September 30, 2023
Weekday (25)
Vestment: White
Today’s Rosary: The Joyful Mystery
-FIRST READING-
A reading from the Book of the Prophet Zechariah (Zechariah 2:1-5.10-11a)
“I come and I will dwell in the midst of you.”
I lifted my eyes and saw, and behold, a man with a measuring line in his hand! Then I said, “Where are you going?” And he said to me, “To measure Jerusalem, to see what is its breadth and what is its length.” And behold, the angel who talked with me came forward, and another angel came forward to meet him, and said to him, “Run, say to that young man, ‘Jerusalem shall be inhabited as villages without walls, because of the multitude of men and cattle in it. For I will be to her a wall of fire round about, says the Lord, and I will be the glory within her.’ “Sing and rejoice, O daughter of Zion; for behold, I come and I will dwell in the midst of you, says the Lord. And many nations shall join themselves to the Lord in that day, and shall be my people; and I will dwell in the midst of you.”
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Jeremiah31:10.11-l2ab.13 (R. see 10d)
R/. The Lord will keep us, as a shepherd keeps his flock.
Hear the word of the Lord, O nations,
and declare it in the islands afar off;
say, “He who scattered Israel will gather him,
and will keep him as a shepherd keeps his flock.” R/.
For the Lord has ransomed Jacob,
And has redeemed him from hands too strong for him.
They shall come and sing aloud on the height of Sion,
And they shall be radiant over the goodness of the Lord. R/.
Then shall the maidens rejoice in the dance,
and the young men and the old shall be merry.
I will turn their mourning into joy,
I will comfort them, and give them gladness for sorrow. R/.
ALLELUIA 2Timothy 1:10
Alleluia. Our Saviour Jesus Christ abolished death and brought life and immortality to light through the Gospel. Alleluia.
-GOSPEL-
A reading from the holy Gospel according to Luke (Luke 9:43b-45)
“The Son of man is to be delivered into the hands of men. They were afraid to ask him about this saying.”
At that time: While all were marveling at everything Jesus did, he said to his disciples, “Let these words sink into your ears; for the Son of man is to be delivered into the hands of men.” But they did not understand this saying, and it was concealed from them, that they should not perceive it; and they were afraid to ask him about this saying.
The Gospel of the Lord.
Today’s Reflection
Death is a reality we would not like to think of or discuss about, because for most of us it is a frightening truth. Human as we are, we find ourselves unprepared and attached to the things of this world. For Jesus, death is a means to win salvation for the whole world. He is ready and willing to die as expiation for our sins. It is difficult for his disciples to accept this teaching. Their idea of a saviour is different from someone who would be ‘delivered into the hands of men’ and be subjected to a cruel death. But we know it is through his death and resurrection that we have our salvation. Death brings life. And christ’s death brings abundant and eternal life.
THE MIRACULOUS 54-DAY ROSARY NOVENA, 8TH SEPT. TO 31ST OCT. 2023.
FIRST 27 DAYS IN PETITION
Day 23: THE GLORIOUS MYSTERIES
Petition: Let us pray for orphans and those without helpers, that through the intercession of Our Mother Mary, God will provide helpers and take care of them we pray O Lord.
1. + In the name of the Father, and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit Sign of the cross.
2. Hail Mary.
3. Prayer before the recitation of the rosary
Hail, Queen of the Most Holy Rosary, my Mother Mary, hail! At thy feet I humbly kneel to offer thee a Crown of Roses, full-blown white roses, tinged with the red of the passion, to remind thee of thy glories, fruits of the sufferings of thy Son and thee, each rose recalling to thee a holy mystery, each 10 bound together with my petition for a particular grace. O Holy Queen, dispenser of God’s graces, and Mother of all who invoke thee! Thou canst not look upon my gift and fail to see its binding. As thou receivest my gift, so wilt thou receive my petition; from thy bounty thou wilt give me the favor I so earnestly and trustingly seek. I despair of nothing that I ask of thee. Show thyself my Mother!
4. Say: The Apostles’ Creed, Our Father, 3 Hail Marys, Glory Be.
5. For each of the following Mysteries, say: Our Father, 10 Hail Marys, Glory Be.
The Resurrection – Our Father, 10 Hail Marys, Glory Be.
Concluding Prayer: I bind these full-blown roses with a petition for the virtue of faith and humbly lay this bouquet at thy feet.
The Ascension – Our Father, 10 Hail Marys, Glory Be.
Concluding Prayer: I bind these full-blown roses with a petition for the virtue of hope and humbly lay this bouquet at thy feet.
The Descent of the Holy Spirit – Our Father, 10 Hail Marys, Glory Be.
Concluding Prayer: I bind these full-blown roses with a petition for the virtue of charity and humbly lay this bouquet at thy feet.
The Assumption of Mary – Our Father, 10 Hail Marys, Glory Be.
Concluding Prayer: I bind these full-blown roses with a petition for the virtue of union with Christ and humbly lay this bouquet at thy feet.
The Coronation of the Blessed Mother – Our Father, 10 Hail Marys, Glory Be.
Concluding Prayer: I bind these full-blown roses with a petition for the virtue of union with thee and humbly lay this bouquet at thy feet.
6. Say: The Hail Holy Queen.
7. Let us pray: O God whose only begotten son by his life death………..
8. Litany of the Blessed Virgin Mary
9. Sweet Mother Mary, I offer thee this spiritual communion to bind my bouquets in a wreath to place upon thy brow. O my Mother! Look with favor upon my gift, and in thy love obtain for me (specify request). Hail Mary …
10. + In the name of the Father, and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit amen.
Sunday 1st October 2023
Weekday (26)
INDEPENDENCE DAY IN NIGERIA
Vestment: White
Today’s Rosary: The Glourious Mystery
OUR LADY QUEEN AND PATRONESS OF NIGERIA (SOLEMNITY)
During the prayer of the faithful, prayers will be offered for Nigeria.
Entrance Antiphon
Hail, Holy Mother, who gave birth to the King who rules heaven and earth for ever.
Collect
O God, who give us the joy of honouring Our Lady, Queen of Nigeria, as mother of divine hope and communion; grant that, with the help of her intercession we may always work for peace and reconciliation in this world and come to share the fullness of your grace. Through our Lord..
-FIRST READING-
A reading from the Book of Isaiah (Isaiah 11: 1-10)
“With righteousness he will judge the poor.”
On that day: There shall come forth a shoot from the stump of Jesse, and a branch shall grow out of his roots. And the Spirit of the Lord shall rest upon him, the spirit of wisdom and understanding, the spirit of counsel and might, the spirit of knowledge and the fear of the Lord. And his delight shall be in the fear of the Lord. He shall not judge by what his eyes see, or decide by what his ears hear; but with righteousness he shall judge the poor, and decide with equity for the meek of the earth; and he shall strike the earth with the rod of his mouth, and with the breath of his lips he shall slay the wicked. Righteousness shall be the belt of his waist, and faithfulness the belt of his loins. The wolf shall dwell with the lamb, and the leopard shall lie down with the kid, and the calf and the lion and the fatling together, and a little child shall lead them. The cow and the bear shall feed; their young shall lie down together; and the lion shall eat straw like the ox. The sucking child shall play over the hole of the asp, and the weaned child shall put his hand on the adder’s den. They shall not hurt or destroy in all my holy mountain; for the earth shall be full of the knowledge of the Lord as the waters cover the sea. In that day the root of Jesse shall stand as an ensign to the peoples; him shall the nations seek, and his dwellings shall be glorious.
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Psalm 72:1-2.7-8.12-13.17 (R. 7)
R/. In his days shall justice flourish, and great peace forever.
O God, give your judgement to the king,
To a king’s son your justice,
That he may judge your people in justice,
And your poor in right judgement. R/.
In his days shall justice flourish,
And great peace till the moon is no more.
He shall rule from sea to sea,
From the River to the bounds of the earth. R/.
R/. In his days shall justice flourish, and great peace forever.
For he shall save the needy when they cry,
The poor, and those who are helpless.
He will have pity on the weak and the needy,
And save the lives of the needy. R/.
May his name endure forever,
His name continue like the sun.
Every tribe shall be blest in him,
All nations shall call him blessed. R/.
-SECOND READING-
A reading from the Letter of Saint Paul to the Ephesians (Ephesians 2:13-22)
He is our peace, bring hostility to an end in his flesh.
Brethren: Now in Christ Jesus you who once were far off have been brought near in the blood of Christ. For he is our peace, who has made us both one, and has broken down the dividing wall of hostility, by abolishing in his flesh the law of commandments and ordinances, that he might create in himself one new man in place of the two, so making peace, and might reconcile us both to God in one body through the cross, thereby bringing the hostility to an end. And he came and preached peace to you who were far off and peace to those who were near; for through him we both have access in one Spirit to the Father. You are no longer strangers and sojourners, but you are fellow citizens with the saints and members of the household of God, built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Christ Jesus himself being the cornerstone, in whom the whole structure is joined together and grows into a holy temple in the Lord; in whom you also are built into it for a dwelling place of God in the Spirit.
The word of the Lord.
ALLELUIA Cf. Luke 1:28
Alleluia. Behold, I am the handmaid of the Lord; Let it be to me according to your word. Alleluia.
-GOSPEL-
A reading from the holy Gospel according to Matthew (Matthew 2: 13-15. 10-23)
“Take the child and his mother, and flee to Egypt.”
When the Wise Men had departed, behold, an angel of the Lord appeared to Joseph in a dream and said, “Rise, take the child and his mother, and flee to Egypt, and remain there till I tell you; for Herod is about to search for the child, to destroy him.” And he rose and took the child and his mother by night, and departed to Egypt, and remained there until the death of Herod. This was to fulfil what the Lord had spoken by the prophet, “Out of Egypt have I called my son.” But when Herod died, behold, an angel of the Lord appeared in a dream to Joseph in Egypt, saying, “Rise, take the child and his mother, and go to the land of Israel, for those who sought the child’s life are dead.” And he rose and took the child and his mother, and went to the land of Israel. But when he heard that Archelaus reigned over Judea in place of his father Herod, he was afraid to go there, and being warned in a dream he withdrew to the district of Galilee. And he went and dwelt in a city called Nazareth, that what was spoken by the prophets might be fulfilled, “He shall be called a Nazarene.”
The Gospel of the Lord.
Today’s Reflection
The consecration of our dear country to Mary, Queen and Patroness, means that all of us must come to her and learn from her school. The school of Mary teaches us how to submit as a nation to God’s will, his plan and purposes for our country. By Mary we are inspired to say always, “Be it done to me according to thy word.” Like Mary, we submit our wills to obey the laws and precepts of God. We submit our minds to assent with perfect submission and firm belief to revealed truth and to the doctrine of Christ. We also submit our hearts to spurn natural desires, love God above all things and cleave to God always. Mary, as our intercessor, will plead with us through her Son to bring about total healing of our country in the face of corruption, bad governance/ government policies and lawlessness in our country. Through Mary our Mother, we conquer.
Blessing for the New Month
Dear Jesus, thank you for this new month of October 2023.
Thank you for the blessings and favours of last month.
Thank you for the gift of our country Nigeria as we celebrate our independence and for the gift of your Mother as Queen and Patroness of our Nation.
May this New month brings us peace and progress in all ramifications and may we experience divine healing and breakthrough in full measure.
Heal the wounds of injustice and disunity in our country, homes, churches, communities’ e.t.c. and help us to become good citizens (both leaders and the led) that will work for the good of all in our country.
Forgive our trespasses and give us the grace to make ourselves available so that you will use us to make the world a better place as your mother did.
May your efforts yield abundant fruits in your life, family and business and may Jesus lift you up once again to a greater height. Amen.
Work hard, be at your best and the best will be your portion through Christ our Lord. Amen. Pray the Rosary and honour our Blessed Mother the Queen and Patroness of Nigeria
Meditation: Luke 1:26-38
Personal Devotional:
October Devotion begins today.
In this month, we shall take you through a series of reflections and prayers to St. Joseph the spouse of Our Mother Mary,
Reflection and Prayers (Devotion to St. Joseph): First Day
God, because of the great love he bears for us, and his great desire to see us saved, has given us among other means of salvation the practice of devotion to the saints. It is his will that they, who are his friends, should intercede for us, and by their merits and prayer obtain graces for us which we ourselves do not deserve. But everyone must know that, after the mother of God, St Joseph is, of all the saints, the one dearest to God. He has, therefore, great power with him and can obtain graces for his devout clients. Let us then frequently say:
Let Us Pray
St. Joseph, give me the greatest confidence in thy powerful intercession.
THE MIRACULOUS 54-DAY ROSARY NOVENA, 8TH SEPT. TO 31ST OCT. 2023.
FIRST 27 DAYS IN PETITION (This novena does not in anyway takes the place of October Devotion)
Day 24: THE GLORIOUS MYSTERIES
Petition: Let us pray for the insecurity, unemployment, challenges and many vices facing our country Nigeria, that through the intercession of Our Mother Mary, God should help us and restore our nation we pray O Lord.
1. + In the name of the Father, and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit Sign of the cross.
2. Hail Mary.
3. Prayer before the recitation of the rosary
Hail, Queen of the Most Holy Rosary, my Mother Mary, hail! At thy feet I humbly kneel to offer thee a Crown of Roses, full-blown white roses, tinged with the red of the passion, to remind thee of thy glories, fruits of the sufferings of thy Son and thee, each rose recalling to thee a holy mystery, each 10 bound together with my petition for a particular grace. O Holy Queen, dispenser of God’s graces, and Mother of all who invoke thee! Thou canst not look upon my gift and fail to see its binding. As thou receivest my gift, so wilt thou receive my petition; from thy bounty thou wilt give me the favor I so earnestly and trustingly seek. I despair of nothing that I ask of thee. Show thyself my Mother!
4. Say: The Apostles’ Creed, Our Father, 3 Hail Marys, Glory Be.
5. For each of the following Mysteries, say: Our Father, 10 Hail Marys, Glory Be.
The Resurrection – Our Father, 10 Hail Marys, Glory Be.
Concluding Prayer: I bind these full-blown roses with a petition for the virtue of faith and humbly lay this bouquet at thy feet.
The Ascension – Our Father, 10 Hail Marys, Glory Be.
Concluding Prayer: I bind these full-blown roses with a petition for the virtue of hope and humbly lay this bouquet at thy feet.
The Descent of the Holy Spirit – Our Father, 10 Hail Marys, Glory Be.
Concluding Prayer: I bind these full-blown roses with a petition for the virtue of charity and humbly lay this bouquet at thy feet.
The Assumption of Mary – Our Father, 10 Hail Marys, Glory Be.
Concluding Prayer: I bind these full-blown roses with a petition for the virtue of union with Christ and humbly lay this bouquet at thy feet.
The Coronation of the Blessed Mother – Our Father, 10 Hail Marys, Glory Be.
Concluding Prayer: I bind these full-blown roses with a petition for the virtue of union with thee and humbly lay this bouquet at thy feet.
6. Say: The Hail Holy Queen.
7. Let us pray: O God whose only begotten son by his life death………..
8. Litany of the Blessed Virgin Mary
9. Sweet Mother Mary, I offer thee this spiritual communion to bind my bouquets in a wreath to place upon thy brow. O my Mother! Look with favor upon my gift, and in thy love obtain for me (specify request). Hail Mary …
10. + In the name of the Father, and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit amen.
Monday 2, October 2023
Weekday (26)
Vestment: White
Today’s Rosary: The Joyful Mystery
THE HOLY GUARDIAN ANGELS (MEMORIAL): A few days ago we celebrated the feast of the archangels Gabriel, Michael and Raphael. Today we give thanks to God for the presence of the guardian angels in our life. From infancy to death, we are surrounded by the watchful care and intercession of the angels, who are always before God. (See memorial Reading below)
-FIRST READING-
Have you ever commanded the morning, and entered into the springs of the sea?
A reading from the Book of Job (Job 38:1.12-21;40:3-5)
The Lord answered Job out of the whirlwind: “Have you commanded the morning since your days began, and caused the dawn to know its place, that it might take hold of the skirts of the earth, and the wicked be shaken out of it? It is changed like clay under the seal, and it is dyed like a garment. From the wicked their light is withheld, and their uplifted arm is broken. Have you entered into the springs of the sea, or walked in the recesses of the deep? Have the gates of death been revealed to you, or have you seen the gates of deep darkness? Have you comprehended the expanse of the earth? Declare, if you know all this. “Where is the way to the dwelling of light, and where is the place of darkness, that you may take it to its territory and that you may discern the paths to its home? You know, for you were born then, and the number of your days is great!” Then Job answered the Lord: “Behold, I am of small account; what shall I answer you? I lay my hand on my mouth. I have spoken once, and I will not answer; twice, but I will proceed no further.”
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Psalm 139:1-3.7-8.9-10.13-14ab (R. 24b)
R/. Lead me, Lord, in the way everlasting.
O Lord, you search me and you know me,
You yourself know my resting and my rising;
you discern my thoughts from afar.
You mark when I walk or lie down;
you know all my ways through and through. R.
O where can I go from your spirit,
or where can I flee from your face?
If I climb the heavens, you are there.
If I lie in the grave, you are there. R.
If I take the wings of the dawn or dwell
at the sea’s furthest end,
even there your hand would lead me;
your right hand would hold me fast. R.
For it was you who formed my inmost being,
knit me together in my mother’s womb.
I thank you who wonderfully made me;
how wonderful are your works. R.
ALLELUIA Psalm 95:7d and 8a
Alleluia. Today, harden not your hearts, but listen to the voice of the Lord. Alleluia.
-GOSPEL-
“He who rejects me, rejects him who sent me. ”
A reading from the holy Gospel according to Luke (Luke 10:13-16)
At that time: Jesus said, “Woe to you, Chorazin! woe to you, Bethsaida! for if the mighty works done in you had been done in Tyre and Sidon, they would have repented long ago, sitting in sackcloth and ashes. But it shall be more tolerable in the judgement for Tyre and Sidon than for you. And you, Capernaum, will you be exalted to heaven? You shall be brought down to Hades. He who hears you hears me, and he who rejects you rejects me, and he who rejects me rejects him who sent me.”
The Gospel of the Lord.
(MEMORIAL MASS READING)
Entrance Antiphon cf. Dn 3:58
Angels of the Lord, bless the Lord, praise and exalt him above all forever.
Collect
O God, who in your unfathomable providence are pleased to send your holy angles to guard us, hear our supplication as we cry to you, that we may always be defended by their protection and rejoice eternally in their company. Through our Lord…
-FIRST READING-
My angel will go before you.
A reading from the Book of Exodus (Exodus 23:20-23)
Thus says the Lord, “Behold, I send an angel before you, to guard you on the way and to bring you to the place which I have prepared. Give heed to him and listen to his voice, do not rebel against him, for he will not pardon your transgression; for my name is in him, but if you listen attentively to his voice and do all that I say, then I will be an enemy to your enemies and an adversary to your adversaries. My angel will go before you, and bring you in to the amorites, and the hittites, and the perizzites, and the canaannites, the Hivites, and the jebusites, and I will blot them out.
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Psalm 91:1-2. 3-4. 5-6. 10-11 (R. 11)
R. For you has he commanded his angels,
To keep you in all your ways.
He who dwells in the shelter of the almighty,
Says to the Lord, my refuge,
My stronghold, my God in whom I trust! R.
He will free you from the snare of the fowler,
From the destructive plague;
He will conceal you with his pinions,
And under his wings you will find refuge.
His faithfulness is buckler and shield. R.
You will not fear the terror of the night,
Nor the arrow that flies by day,
Nor the plague that prowls in the darkness,
Nor the scourge that lays waste at noon. R.
Upon you no evil shall fall,
No plague approach your tent,
For you has he commanded his angels
To keep you in all your ways. R.
ALLELUIA Psalm 103:21
Alleluia. Bless the Lord, all you his hosts, his ministers that do his will. Alleluia.
-GOSPEL-
in heaven their angels always behold the face of my Father who is in heaven.
A reading from the holy Gospel according to Matthew (Matthew 18:1-5.10)
At that time the disciples came to Jesus, saying, “who is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven?” and calling to him a child, he put him in the midst of them, and said, “truly, I say to you, unless you turn and become like children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven. Whoever humbles himself like this child, he is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven. Whoever receives one such child in my name receives me. See that you do not despise one of these little ones; for I tell you that in heaven their angels always behold the face of my father who is in heaven.
The Gospel of the Lord.
Today’s Reflection
Angels are messengers of God, counted among heavenly beings saddled with different responsibilities like healing, announcing and defending. Archangels, and guardian angels are within the common rank of angels. It is our belief that every individual on earth has a guardian angel. As Jesus rightly noted in the gospel, when we live righteously, i.e. with a pure heart, our guardian angel who is before God intercedes for us before God. However, when we live sinfully we reduce the effect of that angel because there is no light shining enough to fan into a flame. To be like a child, as Jesus teaches, is to be pure at heart, sincere and to be at peace with one another. The intercession of the guardian angels sees us through life’s hard and dangerous moments. Live righteously to continually kindle the potency of your guardian angel.
Personal Devotional (October Devotion)
Day Two: (Devotion to St. Joseph)
We should, indeed, honour St. Joseph, since the Son of God himself was graciously pleased to honour him by calling him father. “Christ,” says Origen, “gave to Joseph the honour due to a parent.” The Holy Scriptures speak of him as the father of Jesus. “His father and mother were marveling at the things spoken concerning him” (Luke 2:33). Mary also used this name: “in sorrow thy father and I have been seeking thee” (Luke 2:48). If, the, the king of kings was pleased to raise Joseph to so high a dignity, it is right and obligatory on our part to endeavor to honour him as much as we can.
Let Us Pray
St. Joseph, I consecrate myself to thy service forever. Protect me all the days of my life.
THE HOLY ROSARY
When the rosary is recited in a group, there will be a leader (L) and response (R).
If you do not have Rosary beads, it is perfectly okay to count with your fingers, but counting beads frees your mind to help you meditate.
On the first bead say Our Father; on the next three beads recites the Hail Mary, after the third Hail Mary, recite the Glory be, and the Fatima prayers. Before the 1st of the 10 Hail Mary beads, announce the relevant mystery for the day and say Our Father. Say the Glory Be and the Fatima prayers after each decade subsequently.
BEGIN WITH THE SIGN OF THE CROSS
+In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.
L: Come Holy Spirit fill the hearts of the faithful,
R: And enkindle in them the fire of thy love.
L: Send forth thy Spirit and they shall be recreated,
R: And thou shalt renew the face of the earth,
Let us pray:
ALL: O God, who by the light of the Holy Spirit, did instruct the hearts of the faithful, grant that in the same spirit we may be truly wise and ever rejoice in his consolation, through Christ our Lord. Amen.
L: Thou O Lord shall open my lips,
R: And my tongue shall proclaim thy praise,
L: Incline unto my aid O God,
R: O Lord make haste to help me
L: Glory be to the Father, and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit,
R: As it was in the beginning is now and ever shall be, world without end. Amen
THE CREED
L: I believe in God, the Father Almighty, creator of Heaven and earth; and in Jesus Christ, His only Son, Our Lord, Who was conceived by the Holy Spirit, born of the Virgin Mary, suffered under Pontius Pilate, was crucified; died, and was buried. He descended into hell. On the third day, He rose again from the dead, He ascended into Heaven, and is seated at the right hand of God, the Father Almighty; from thence He shall come to judge the living and the dead.
R: I believe in the Holy Spirit, the holy Catholic Church, the communion of saints, the forgiveness of sins, the resurrection of the body, and life everlasting. Amen.
OUR FATHER
L: Our Father, Who art in heaven, hallowed be Thy name; Thy kingdom come; Thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven.
R: Give us this day our daily bread; and forgive us our trespasses as we forgive those who trespass against us; and lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. Amen.
HAIL MARY
L: Hail Mary, full of grace. The Lord is with thee. Blessed art thou amongst women, and blessed is the fruit of thy womb, Jesus.
R: Holy Mary, Mother of God, pray for us sinners, now and at the hour of our death, Amen.
GLORY BE
L: Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit,
R: as it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, world without end. Amen.
FATIMA PRAYER:
ALL: O my Jesus, forgive us of our sins. Save us from the fire of hell. Lead all souls into heaven, especially those in most need of thy mercy.
L: Jesus have mercy on us,
R: Blessed virgin Mary help us,
L: May the souls of all the faithful departed
R: Through the mercy of God rest in peace amen,
-------------------------------------------------
THE SORROWFUL MYSTERIES (Tuesdays and Fridays)
1. The Agony in the Garden
Jesus sweats water and blood while praying the night before his passion. Matthew 26:36-46, Mark 14:26-42, Luke 22:39-53
2. The Scourging at the Pillar
Pilate has Jesus whipped. Matthew 27:15-26, Mark 15:6-15, John 18:38, 19:1, Luke 23:13-25
3. The Crowning with Thorns
Roman soldiers crown Jesus' head with thorns. Matthew 27:27-31, Mark 15:16-20, John 19:1-5
4. The Carrying of the Cross
Jesus meets His mother and falls three times on the way up Calvary. John 19:16-22, Philippians 2:6-11
5. The Crucifixion
Jesus is nailed to the cross and dies before His mother and His apostle John. Mark 15:33-39, John 19:17-37, Hebrew 9:11-14
HAIL HOLY QUEEN
ALL: Hail, holy Queen, Mother of mercy, hail our life, our sweetness and our hope. To thee do we cry, poor banished children of Eve: to thee do we send up our sighs, mourning and weeping in this valley of tears. Turn then, most gracious Advocate, thine eyes of mercy toward us, and after this our exile, show unto us the blessed fruit of thy womb, Jesus. O clement, O loving, O sweet Virgin Mary!
L: Pray for us O Holy Mother of God,
R: That we may be made worthy of the promises of Christ.
L: Let us pray.
All: O God, whose only begotten Son by his life, death, and resurrection has purchased for us the rewards of eternal salvation; grant we beseech thee, that meditating upon these mysteries in the most Holy Rosary of the Blessed Virgin Mary, we may imitate what they contain and obtain what they promise through the same Christ our Lord. Amen.
L: May the divine assistance always remain with us,
R: May the souls of the faithful departed through the mercy of God rest in peace amen.
L: Most Sacred heart of Jesus
R: Have mercy on us
L: Immaculate Heart of Mary
R: Pray for Us
L: Saint Joseph
R: Pray for Us
L: St. John the Evangelist
R: Pray for Us
L: St. Louis Maria de Monfort
R: Pray for Us
LITANY OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN MARY
L. Lord, have mercy.
R. Lord have mercy.
L. Christ have mercy.
R. Christ have mercy
L. Christ hear us.
R. Christ graciously hear us.
God the Father of heaven,
have mercy on us.
God the Son, Redeemer of the world,
have mercy on us.
God the Holy Spirit,
have mercy on us.
Holy Trinity, one God,
have mercy on us.
Holy Mary,
pray for us.
Holy Mother of God,
pray for us.
Holy Virgin of Virgins,
Mother of Christ,
Mother of the Church
MOTHER of Mercy
Mother of divine grace,
MOTHER of Hope
Mother most pure,
Mother most chaste,
Mother inviolate,
Mother undefiled,
Mother most amiable,
Mother most admirable,
Mother of good Counsel,
Mother of our Creator,
Mother of our Savior,
Virgin most prudent,
Virgin most venerable,
Virgin most renowned,
Virgin most powerful,
Virgin most merciful,
Virgin most faithful,
Mirror of justice,
Seat of wisdom,
Cause of our joy,
Spiritual vessel,
Vessel of honor,
Singular vessel of devotion,
Mystical rose,
Tower of David,
Tower of ivory,
House of gold,
Ark of the covenant,
Gate of heaven,
Morning star,
Health of the sick,
Refuge of sinners,
COMFORT of Migrants
Comforter of the afflicted,
Help of Christians,
Queen of Angels,
Queen of Patriarchs,
Queen of Prophets,
Queen of Apostles,
Queen of Martyrs,
Queen of Confessors,
Queen of Virgins,
Queen of all Saints,
Queen conceived without original sin,
Queen assumed into heaven,
Queen of the most holy Rosary,
Queen of families,
Queen of peace,
Lamb of God, who takes away the sins of the world,
Spare us o Lord
Lamb of God, who takes away the sins of the world,
Graciously hear us o Lord
Lamb of God, who takes away the sins of the world,
Have mercy on us
Pray for us, O holy mother of God,
That we may be made worthy of the promises of Christ
Let Us Pray:
Grant we beseech thee, O Lord, that we your servants may enjoy perpetual health of mind and body and by the glorious intercession of the blessed Mary ever Virgin, may be delivered from present sorrows and attain to eternal joy, through Christ our Lord. Amen.
THE MEMORARE
Remember, o most gracious virgin Mary, that never was it known that anyone who fled to thy protection, implore thy help or sought thy intercession was left unaided. Inspired by this confidence, I fly unto thee, o virgin of virgins, my mother, to thee I come, before thee I stand sinful and sorrowful. O mother of the word incarnate, despise not my petition but in thy mercy hear and answer me. Amen.
PRAYER TO ST. MICHAEL
Holy Michael, the Archangel defend us in the day of battle, be our safeguard against the wickedness and snares of the devil. May God rebuke him, we humbly pray and do thou, o prince of the heavenly host, by the power of God, cast into hell, satan and all wicked spirit who wander through the world for the ruin of souls. Amen .
Tuesday October 03, 2023
Weekday (26) ordinary Time
Vestment: Green/White
Today’s Rosary: The Sorrowful Mystery
-FIRST READING-
Many peoples shall come to seek the Lord in Jerusalem.
A reading from the Book of the Prophet Zechariah (Zechariah 8:20-23).
Thus says the Lord of hosts: Peoples shall yet come, even the inhabitants of many cities; the inhabitants of one city shall go to another, saying, ‘Let us go at once to entreat the favour of the Lord, and to seek the Lord of hosts; I am going.’ Many peoples and strong nations shall come to seek the Lord of hosts in Jerusalem, and to entreat the favour of the Lord. Thus says the Lord of hosts: In those days ten men from the nations of every tongue shall take hold of the robe of a Jew, saying, ‘Let us go with you, for we have heard that God is with you.’”
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Psalm 87:1-3.4-5.6-7 (R. Zechariah 8:23).
R. God is with us.
Founded by him on the holy mountain,
the Lord loves the gates of Sion,
more than all the dwellings of Jacob.
Of you are told glorious things,
you, O city of God! R.
Rahab and Babylon I will count
among those who know me;
of Tyre, Philistia, Ethiopia, it is told,
‘There was this one born.
But of Sion it shall be said,
‘Each one was born in her.
He, the Most High, established It. R.
R. God is with us.
In his register of peoples the Lord writes,
Here was this one born.
The singers cry out in chorus,
In you, all find their home. R.
ALLELUIA Mark 10:45
Alleluia. The Son of man came not to be served but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many. Alleluia.
-GOSPEL-
He set his face to go to Jerusalem.
A reading from the holy Gospel according to Luke (Luke 9:51-56).
When the days drew near for Jesus to be received up, he set his face to go to Jerusalem. And he sent messengers ahead of him, who went and entered a village of the Samaritans, to make ready for him; but the people would not receive him, because his face was set towards Jerusalem. And when his disciples James and John saw it, they said, “Lord, do you want us to bid fire come down from heaven and consume them?” But he turned and rebuked them. And they went on to another village.
The Gospel of the Lord.
Today’s Reflection
Pope Francis affirms that Jesus is not an isolated missionary, nor does he want to accomplish his mission alone. Instead, he involves his disciples. Even in our time he continues to invites us to join him in his mission. We have the liberty to accept or reject the invitation, and either way he respects us. In today’s Gospel we note that the people rejected him, a foreshadowing of the greater rejection by humanity, which he came to save. Yet Jesus didn’t cease loving them so much that he rebuked James and john who wanted to bid fire come down from heaven to consume them. If God loves us so extravagantly, who are we to punish those who use their liberty against us? Christ died that we may be completely set free. Our complete liberty, however, gives us the choice to choose heaven or hell.
THE MIRACULOUS 54-DAY ROSARY NOVENA
FIRST 27 DAYS IN PETITION
Day 26: THE GLORIOUS MYSTERIES
1. Sign of the Cross:
In the name of the Father, and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit Amen
PERSONAL INTENTION: Let us pray for orphans and those without helpers, that through the intercession of Our Mother Mary, God will provide helpers and take care of them we pray O Lord.
2. Hail Mary:
Hail Mary, full of grace, The Lord is with Thee; Blessed art thou among women, And blessed is the fruit of thy womb, Jesus. Holy Mary, Mother of God, Pray for us sinners, now and at the hour of our death. Amen
3. IN PETITION (First 27 Days):
Hail, Queen of the Most Holy Rosary, my Mother Mary, hail! At thy feet I humbly kneel to offer thee a Crown of Roses, snow white buds to remind thee of thy joys, each bud recalling to thee a holy mystery, each 10 bound together with my petition for a particular grace. O Holy Queen, dispenser of God’s graces, and Mother of all who invoke thee, thou canst not look upon my gift and fail to see its binding. As thou receivest my gift, so wilt thou receive my petition; from thy bounty thou wilt give me the favor I so earnestly and trustingly seek. I despair of nothing that I ask of thee. Show thyself my Mother!
4. Say:
- The Apostles’ Creed,
- Our Father,
- 3 Hail Mary’s,
- Glory Be.
5. For each of the following Mysteries, say: Our Father, 10 Hail Marys, Glory Be.
The Resurrection – Our Father, 10 Hail Marys, Glory Be.
Concluding Prayer: I bind these full-blown roses with a petition for the virtue of faith and humbly lay this bouquet at thy feet.
The Ascension – Our Father, 10 Hail Marys, Glory Be.
Concluding Prayer: I bind these full-blown roses with a petition for the virtue of hope and humbly lay this bouquet at thy feet.
The Descent of the Holy Spirit – Our Father, 10 Hail Marys, Glory Be.
Concluding Prayer: I bind these full-blown roses with a petition for the virtue of charity and humbly lay this bouquet at thy feet.
The Assumption of Mary – Our Father, 10 Hail Marys, Glory Be.
Concluding Prayer: I bind these full-blown roses with a petition for the virtue of union with Christ and humbly lay this bouquet at thy feet.
The Coronation of the Blessed Mother – Our Father, 10 Hail Marys, Glory Be.
Concluding Prayer: I bind these full-blown roses with a petition for the virtue of union with thee and humbly lay this bouquet at thy feet.
6. Say: The Hail Holy Queen.
Hail Holy Queen, Mother of mercy, hail Our life, our sweetness, and our hope. To thee do we cry, poor banished children of Eve. To thee do we send up our sighs, mourning and weeping in this valley of tears. Turn then, most gracious advocate, thine eyes of mercy towards us. And after this, our exile, show unto us the blessed fruit of thy womb, Jesus. O clement O loving O sweet Virgin Mary.
V/. Pray for us oh holy mother of God.
R/. That we may be made worthy of the promises of Christ.
7. Let us pray: O God whose only begotten son by his life death………..
8. Litany of the Blessed Virgin Mary (optional)
9. Let us pray: Sweet Mother Mary, I offer thee this spiritual communion to bind my bouquets in a wreath to place upon thy brow. O my Mother! Look with favor upon my gift, and in thy love obtain for me (specify request).
HAIL MARY;
Hail Mary, full of grace, The Lord is with Thee; Blessed art thou among women, And blessed is the fruit of thy womb, Jesus. Holy Mary, Mother of God, Pray for us sinners, now and at the hour of our death. Amen
10. In the name of the Father, and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit amen.
– Promise of Our Lady of the Most Holy Rosary
Whoever desires to obtain favors from Me should make three novenas of the prayers of the Rosary, and three novenas in thanksgiving.”
- Fr Richard Heilman February 7, 2016
WEDNESDAY October 4, 2023
Weekday (26)
Vestment: White
Today’s Rosary: The Glorious Mystery
-FIRST READING-
A reading from the Book of Nehemiah (Nehemiah 2:1-8)
“If it pleases the king, send me to the city of my fathers, that I may rebuild it.”
In the month of Nisan, in the twentieth year of King Artaxerxes, when wine was before him, I, Nehemiah, took up the wine and gave it to the king. Now I had not been sad in his presence. And the king said to me, “Why is your face sad, seeing you are not sick? This is nothing else but sadness of the heart.” Then I was very much afraid. I said to the king, “Let the king live for ever! Why should not my face be sad, when the city, the place of my fathers’ sepulchres, lies waste, and its gates have been destroyed by fire?” Then the king said to me, “For what do you make request?” So I prayed to the God of heaven. And I said to the king, “If it pleases the king, and if your servant has found favour in your sight, that you send me to Judah, to the city of my fathers’ sepulchres, that I may rebuild it.” And the king said to me (the queen sitting beside him), “How long will you be gone, and when will you return?” So it pleased the king to send me; and I set him a time. And I said to the king, “If it pleases the king, let letters be given me to the governors of the province Beyond the River, that they may let me pass through until I come to Judah; and a letter to Asaph, the keeper of the king’s forest, that he may give me timber to make beams for the gates of the fortress of the temple, and for the wall of the city, and for the house which I shall occupy.” And the king granted me what I asked, for the good hand of my God was upon me.
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Psalm 137:1-2.3.4-5.6 (R. 6ab)
R/. O let my tongue cleave to my palate if I remember you not!
By the rivers of Babylon there we sat and wept,
remembering Sion;
on the poplars that grew there
we hung up our harps. R/.
For it was there that they asked us, our captors, for songs,
our oppressors, for joy.
“Sing to us,” they said,
“one of Sion’s songs.” R/.
O how could we sing
the song of the Lord
on foreign soil?
If I forget you, Jerusalem,
let my right hand wither! R/.
O let my tongue
cleave to my palate
if I remember you not,
if I prize not Jerusalem
as the first of my joys! R/.
ALLELUIA Philippians3:8-9a
Alleluia. I count everything as refuse, in order that I may gain Christ and be found in him. Alleluia.
-GOSPEL-
A reading from the holy Gospel according to Luke (Luke 9:57-62)
“I will follow you wherever you go.”
At that time: As Jesus and his disciples were going along the road, a man said to him, “I will follow you wherever you go.” And Jesus said to him, “Foxes have holes, and birds of the air have nests; but the Son of man has nowhere to lay his head.” To another he said, “Follow me.” But he said, “Lord, let me first go and bury my father.” But he said to him, “Leave the dead to bury their own dead; but as for you, go and proclaim the kingdom of God.” Another said, “I will follow you, Lord; but let me first say farewell to those at my home.” Jesus said to him, “No one who puts his hand to the plough and looks back is fit for the kingdom of God.”
The Gospel of the Lord.
Today’s Reflection
Angels are heavenly beings who take care of us. God assigns them to minister to us. They do this in many ways, either as our guardians or as messengers. St Michael is the defender of the church. St Gabriel brings glad tidings to Mary, that she will be the mother of God, and announces the birth of John the Baptist. It is St Raphael who brings about healing to Tobias and helps Tobit in his journey until he attains his desire to marry. Our Guardian Angels are always interceding for us. We need to trust their intercession, especially when things become difficult. We have to learn how to invoke them. They are always available to attend to us in our spiritual and material needs. Angels are real and very effective ministries of God in our world.
Personal Devotional
(Devotion to St. Joseph) SECOND DAY
We should, indeed, honour St. Joseph, since the Son of God himself was graciously pleased to honour him by calling him father. “Christ,” says Origen, “gave to Joseph the honour due to a parent.” The Holy Scriptures speak of him as the father of Jesus. “His father and mother were marveling at the things spoken concerning him” (Luke 2:33). Mary also used this name: “in sorrow thy father and I have been seeking thee” (Luke 2:48). If, the, the king of kings was pleased to raise Joseph to so high a dignity, it is right and obligatory on our part to endeavor to honour him as much as we can.
Let Us Pray
St. Joseph, I consecrate myself to thy service forever. Protect me all the days of my life.
THE MIRACULOUS 54-DAY ROSARY NOVENA, 8TH SEPT. TO 31ST OCT. 2023.
FIRST 27 DAYS IN PETITION
Day 27: THE JOYFUL MYSTERIES
Petition: Let us pray for all those participating in this Miraculous 54-Day Rosary Novena, that through the intercession of Our Mother Mary, God will hear and answer our prayers and grant us our heart desires we pray O Lord.
1. + In the name of the Father, and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit Sign of the cross.
2. Hail Mary.
3. Prayer before the recitation of the rosary
Hail, Queen of the Most Holy Rosary, my Mother Mary, hail! At thy feet I humbly kneel to offer thee a Crown of Roses, snow white buds to remind thee of thy joys, each bud recalling to thee a holy mystery, each 10 bound together with my petition for a particular grace. O Holy Queen, dispenser of God’s graces, and Mother of all who invoke thee, thou canst not look upon my gift and fail to see its binding. As thou receivest my gift, so wilt thou receive my petition; from thy bounty thou wilt give me the favor I so earnestly and trustingly seek. I despair of nothing that I ask of thee. Show thyself my Mother!
4. The Apostles’ Creed, Our Father, 3 Hail Marys, Glory Be.
5. The Annunciation – Our Father, 10 Hail Marys, Glory Be.
Concluding Prayer: I bind these snow-white buds with a petition for the virtue of humility and humbly lay this bouquet at thy feet.
The Visitation – Our Father, 10 Hail Marys, Glory Be.
Concluding Prayer: I bind these snow-white buds with a petition for the virtue of charity and humbly lay this bouquet at thy feet.
The Nativity – Our Father, 10 Hail Marys, Glory Be.
Concluding Prayer: I bind these snow-white buds with a petition for the virtue of detachment from the world and humbly lay this bouquet at thy feet.
The Presentation – Our Father, 10 Hail Marys, Glory Be.
Concluding Prayer: I bind these snow-white buds with a petition for the virtue of purity and humbly lay this bouquet at thy feet.
Finding the Child Jesus in the Temple – Our Father, 10 Hail Marys, Glory Be.
Concluding Prayer: I bind these snow-white buds with a petition for the virtue of obedience to the will of God and humbly lay this bouquet at thy feet.
6. The Hail Holy Queen.
7. Let us pray: O God whose only begotten son by his life death………..
8. Litany of the Blessed Virgin Mary
9. Sweet Mother Mary, I offer thee this spiritual communion to bind my bouquets in a wreath to place upon thy brow. O my Mother! Look with favor upon my gift, and in thy love obtain for me (specify request). Hail Mary …
10. + In the name of the Father, and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit amen.
THURSDAY October 5, 2023
Weekday (26)
Vestment: Green
Today’s Rosary: The Luminous Mystery
-FIRST READING-
A reading from the Book of Nehemiah (Nehemiah 8:1-4a.5-6.7b-12)
“Ezra opened the book and blessed the Lord, and all the people answered, ’Amen! Amen!”’
In those days: All the people gathered as one man into the square before the Water Gate; and they told Ezra the scribe to bring the book of the law of Moses which the Lord had given to Israel. And Ezra the priest brought the law before the assembly, both men and women and all who could hear with understanding, on the first day of the seventh month. And he read from it facing the square before the Water Gate from early morning until midday, in the presence of the men and the women and those who could understand; and the ears of all the people were attentive to the book of the law. And Ezra the scribe stood on a wooden pulpit which they had made for the purpose. And Ezra opened the book in the sight of all the people, for he was above all the people; and when he opened it all the people stood. And Ezra blessed the Lord, the great God; and all the people answered, “Amen, Amen,” lifting up their hands; and they bowed their heads and worshiped the Lord With their faces to the ground. Also the Levites helped the people to understand the law, while the people remained in their places. And they read from the book, from the law of God, clearly; and they gave the sense, so that the people understood the reading. And Nehemiah, who was the governor, and Ezra the priest and scribe, and the Levites who taught the people said to all the people, “This day is holy to the Lord your God; do not mourn or weep.” For all the people wept when they heard the words of the law. Then he said to them, “Go your way, eat the fat and drink sweet wine and send portions to him for whom nothing is prepared; for this day is holy to our Lord; and do not be grieved, for the joy of the Lord is your strength.” So the Levites stilled all the people, saying, “Be quiet, for this day is holy; do not be grieved.” And all the people went their way to eat and drink and to send portions and to make great rejoicing, because they had understood the words that were declared to them.
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Psalm 19:8.9.10.11 (R. 9ab)
R/. The precepts of the Lord are right; they gladden the heart.
The law of the Lord is perfect;
it revives the soul.
The decrees of the Loan are steadfast;
they give wisdom to the simple. R/.
The precepts of the Lord are right;
they gladden the heart.
The command of the Lord is clear;
it gives light to the eyes. R/.
The fear of the Lord is pure,
abiding forever.
The judgements of the Lord are true;
they are, all of them, just. R/.
They are more to be desired than gold,
than quantities of gold.
And sweeter are they than honey,
than honey flowing from the comb. R/.
ALLELUIA Mark1:15
Alleluia. The kingdom of God is at hand; repent, and believe in the Gospel. Alleluia.
-GOSPEL-
A reading from the holy Gospel according to Luke (Luke 10: 1-12)
“Your peace will rest upon him.”
At that time: The Lord appointed seventy others, and sent them on ahead of him, two by two, into every town and place where he himself was about to come. And he said to them, “The harvest is plentiful, but the labourers are few; pray therefore the Lord of the harvest to send out labourers into his harvest. Go your way; behold, I send you out as lambs in the midst of wolves. Carry no purse, no bag, no sandals; and salute no one on the road. Whatever house you enter, first say, ‘Peace be to this house!’ And if a son of peace is there, your peace shall rest upon him; but if not, it shall return to you. And remain in the same house, eating and drinking what they provide, for the labourer deserves his wages; do not go from house to house. Whenever you enter a town and they receive you, eat what is set before you; heal the sick in it and say to them, ‘The kingdom of God has come near to you. But whenever you enter a town and they do not receive you, go into its streets and say, ‘Even the dust of your town that clings to our feet, we wipe off against you; nevertheless know this, that the kingdom of God has come near.’ I tell you, it shall be more tolerable on that day for Sodom than for that town.”
The Gospel of the Lord.
Today’s Reflection
St Therese was a young French Discalced Carmelite nun who discovered that her spiritual childhood and total surrender. Her intense desire to be a missionary and her fervent prayers for those working in the missions qualified her to be the Patroness of the missions although she never went out to preach in any mission field. Today’s gospel describes how Jesus sent out, two by two, seventy of his disciples out on his mission. He said to them, “The harvest is plentiful, but the labourers are few; pray therefore the Lord of the harvest to send out labourers into his harvest.” The simple and holy life of St Therese points out that everyone of us is a missionary by virtue of our baptism and that we have a duty to pray and support the missionaries working in remote and difficult terrains. Our little acts of mortifications, sacrifices, prayers and penances may be offered with love for the wellbeing and success of those in the missions. And if any one of is chosen to be a missionary, let us not hesitate to respond to his call and dedicate our lives for him.
Personal Devotional
Reflection on St. Joseph: THIRD DAY
The example of Jesus Christ, who wished to honour St. Joseph so much, and to be subject to him on earth, ought to inflame all with a fervent devotion towards this great saint. Since the Eternal Father shared his own authority with St. Joseph, Jesus always regarded him as a father, and respected and obeyed him for thirty years. St Luke says He “was subject to them” (Luke 2:51). These words mean that during all this time the sole occupation of the Redeemer was to obey Mary and Joseph. To St. Joseph, as head of the little family, belonged the office of commanding, and to Jesus as a subject, the duty of obedience. Hence, a learned author has justly said: “Men should pay great honour to him whom the King of kings wished to raise to such a height”.
Let Us Pray
St. Joseph, by the obedience which Jesus rendered to thee, make me always obedient to the will of God.
THE MIRACULOUS 54-DAY ROSARY NOVENA, 8TH SEPT. TO 31ST OCT. 2023.
FIRST 27 DAYS IN PETITION
Day 28: THE SORROWFUL MYSTERIES
Petition: Let us pray for all those participating in this Miraculous 54-Day Rosary Novena, that through the intercession of Our Mother Mary, God will hear and answer our prayers and grant us our heart desires we pray O Lord.
1. + In the name of the Father, and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit Sign of the cross.
2. Hail Mary.
3. Prayer before the recitation of the rosary
Hail, Queen of the Most Holy Rosary, my Mother Mary, hail! At thy feet I humbly kneel to offer thee a Crown of Roses, blood red roses to remind thee of the passion of thy divine Son, with Whom thou didst so fully partake of its bitterness, each rose recalling to thee a holy mystery, each 10 bound together with my petition for a particular grace. O Holy Queen, dispenser of God’s graces, and Mother of all who invoke thee! Thou canst not look upon my gift and fail to see its binding. As thou receivest my gift, so wilt thou receive my petition; from thy bounty thou wilt give me the favor I so earnestly and trustingly seek. I despair of nothing that I ask of thee. Show thyself my Mother!
4. Say: The Apostles’ Creed, Our Father, 3 Hail Marys, Glory Be.
5. The Agony in the Garden – Our Father, 10 Hail Marys, Glory Be.
Concluding Prayer: I bind these blood red roses with a petition for the virtue of resignation to the will of God and humbly lay this bouquet at thy feet.
The Scourging at the Pillar – Our Father, 10 Hail Marys, Glory Be.
Concluding Prayer: I bind these blood red roses with a petition for the virtue of mortification and humbly lay this bouquet at thy feet.
The Crowning with Thorns – Our Father, 10 Hail Marys, Glory Be.
Concluding Prayer: I bind these blood red roses with a petition for the virtue of humility and humbly lay this bouquet at thy feet.
The Carrying of the Cross – Our Father, 10 Hail Marys, Glory Be.
Concluding Prayer: I bind these blood red roses with a petition for the virtue of patience in adversity and humbly lay this bouquet at thy feet.
The Crucifixion – Our Father, 10 Hail Marys, Glory Be.
Concluding Prayer: I bind these blood red roses with a petition for the virtue of love of our enemies and humbly lay this bouquet at thy feet.
6. Say: The Hail Holy Queen.
7. Let us pray: O God whose only begotten son by his life death………..
8. Litany of the Blessed Virgin Mary
9. Sweet Mother Mary, I offer thee this spiritual communion to bind my bouquets in a wreath to place upon thy brow. O my Mother! Look with favor upon my gift, and in thy love obtain for me (specify request). Hail Mary …
10. + In the name of the Father, and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit amen.
FRIDAY October 6, 2023
Weekday (26)
Vestment: White
Today’s Rosary: The Sorrowful Mystery
-FIRST READING-
A reading from the Book of Baruch (Baruch 1:15-21)
“We have sinned before the Lord, and have disobeyed him.”
“Righteousness belongs to the Lord our God, but confusion of face, as at this day, to us, to the men of Judah, to the inhabitants of Jerusalem, and to our kings and our princes and our priests and our prophets and our fathers, because we have sinned before the Lord, and have disobeyed him, and have not heeded the voice of the Lord our God, to walk in the statutes of the Lord which he set before us. From the day when the Lord brought our fathers out of the land of Egypt until today, we have been disobedient to the Lord our God, and we have been negligent, in not heeding his voice. So to this day there have clung to us the calamities and the curse which the Lord declared through Moses his servant at the time when he brought our fathers out of the land of Egypt to give us a land flowing with milk and honey. We did not heed the voice of the Lord our God in all the words of the prophets whom he sent to us, but we each followed the intent of his own wicked heart by serving other gods and doing what is evil in the sight of the Lord our God.”
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Psalm 79:1-2.3-5.8.9 (R. See 9bc)
R/. For the sake of the glory of your name, free us, O Lord.
O God, the nations have invaded your heritage;
they have profaned your holy temple.
They have made Jerusalem a heap of ruins.
They have handed over the bodies of your servants
as food to feed the birds of heaven,
and the flesh of your faithful to the beasts of the earth. R/.
They have poured out their blood like water round Jerusalem;
no one is left to bury the dead.
We have become the taunt of our neighbours,
the mockery and scorn of those around us.
How long, O Lord? Will you be angry forever?
Will your jealous anger burn like fire? R/.
R/. For the sake of the glory of your name, free us, O Lord.
Do not remember against us
the guilt of former times.
Let your compassion hasten to meet us;
for we have been brought very low. R/.
Help us, O God our saviour,
for the sake of the glory of your name.
Free us and forgive us our sins,
because of your name. R/.
ALLELUIA Psalm 95:7d and 8a
Alleluia. Today, harden not your hearts, but listen to the voice of the Lord. Alleluia.
-GOSPEL-
A reading from the holy Gospel according to Luke (Luke 10:13-16)
“He who rejects me, rejects him who sent me.”
At that time: Jesus said, “Woe to you, Chorazin! Woe to you, Bethsaida! For if the mighty works done in you had been done in Tyre and Sidon, they would have repented long ago, sitting in sack cloth and ashes. But it shall be more tolerable in the judgement for Tyre and Sidon than for you. And you, Capernaum, will you be exalted to heaven? You shall be brought down to Hades. He who hears you hears me, and he who rejects you rejects me, and he who rejects me rejects him who sent me.”
The Gospel of the Lord.
Today’s Reflection
Prophet Baruch challenges the people about their sons. The phrase “confusion of face” communicates his worries. There is always confusion in one’s life when one deliberately disobeys God. We really make ourselves God’s enemies and this brings about confusion. When we disobey, we move from freedom to bondage. The bondage of sin brings regret, making us strangers before God. We lose our cordial relationship with God. Sin is an act of disobedience in all its ramifications. We begin to regress in many ways. We get lazy about praying or abhor prayer or any spiritual exercise. We also do not desire to go to church because we think God will not listen to us again or even look at us. We must realise that in sin should lead us back to our good God rather than take us away from him.
Personal Devotional
(Devotion to St. Joseph) SIXTH DAY
St. Bernardine of Siena says that we should be persuaded that our Lord, who respected St. Joseph on earth as his father, will refuse him nothing in heaven; but on the contrary, will most abundantly grant his petitions. Jesus himself advised St. Margaret of Cortona to cherish a special devotion to St. Joseph, and never to allow a day to pass without rendering some homage to him as his foster father. Let us not, then, fail to recommend ourselves each day to St. Joseph and to ask him for graces.
Let Us Pray
St. Joseph, make me faithful in invoking you daily.
THE MIRACULOUS 54-DAY ROSARY NOVENA, 8TH SEPT. TO 31ST OCT. 2023.
FIRST 27 DAYS IN PETITION
Day 29: THE GLORIOUS MYSTERIES
Petition: Let us pray for all those participating in this Miraculous 54-Day Rosary Novena, that through the intercession of Our Mother Mary, God will hear and answer our prayers and grant us our heart desires we pray O Lord.
1. + In the name of the Father, and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit Sign of the cross.
2. Hail Mary.
3. Prayer before the recitation of the rosary
Hail, Queen of the Most Holy Rosary, my Mother Mary, hail! At thy feet I humbly kneel to offer thee a Crown of Roses, full-blown white roses, tinged with the red of the passion, to remind thee of thy glories, fruits of the sufferings of thy Son and thee, each rose recalling to thee a holy mystery, each 10 bound together with my petition for a particular grace. O Holy Queen, dispenser of God’s graces, and Mother of all who invoke thee! Thou canst not look upon my gift and fail to see its binding. As thou receivest my gift, so wilt thou receive my petition; from thy bounty thou wilt give me the favor I so earnestly and trustingly seek. I despair of nothing that I ask of thee. Show thyself my Mother!
4. Say: The Apostles’ Creed, Our Father, 3 Hail Marys, Glory Be.
5. For each of the following Mysteries, say: Our Father, 10 Hail Marys, Glory Be.
The Resurrection – Our Father, 10 Hail Marys, Glory Be.
Concluding Prayer: I bind these full-blown roses with a petition for the virtue of faith and humbly lay this bouquet at thy feet.
The Ascension – Our Father, 10 Hail Marys, Glory Be.
Concluding Prayer: I bind these full-blown roses with a petition for the virtue of hope and humbly lay this bouquet at thy feet.
The Descent of the Holy Spirit – Our Father, 10 Hail Marys, Glory Be.
Concluding Prayer: I bind these full-blown roses with a petition for the virtue of charity and humbly lay this bouquet at thy feet.
The Assumption of Mary – Our Father, 10 Hail Marys, Glory Be.
Concluding Prayer: I bind these full-blown roses with a petition for the virtue of union with Christ and humbly lay this bouquet at thy feet.
The Coronation of the Blessed Mother – Our Father, 10 Hail Marys, Glory Be.
Concluding Prayer: I bind these full-blown roses with a petition for the virtue of union with thee and humbly lay this bouquet at thy feet.
6. Say: The Hail Holy Queen.
7. Let us pray: O God whose only begotten son by his life death………..
8. Litany of the Blessed Virgin Mary
9. Sweet Mother Mary, I offer thee this spiritual communion to bind my bouquets in a wreath to place upon thy brow. O my Mother! Look with favor upon my gift, and in thy love obtain for me (specify request). Hail Mary …
10. + In the name of the Father, and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit amen.
Saturday October 7, 2023
Vestment: White-FIRST READING-Â Â Â Â Â
They devoted themselves to prayer with Mary the Mother of Jesus.
A reading from the Acts of the Apostle Acts 1:12-14
(After Jesus was taken up into heaven,) the apostles returned to Jerusalem from the mount called Olivet, which is near Jerusalem, a Sabbath day’s journey away; and when they had entered, they went up to the upper room, where they were staying, Peter and John and James and Andrew, Philip and Thomas, Bartholomew and Matthew, James the son of Alphaeus and Simon the Zealot and Judas the son of James. All these with one accord devoted themselves to prayer, together with the women and Mary the mother of Jesus, and his brethren.
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALMÂ Luke 1:46-47.48-49.50-51.52-53.54-55 (R. 49)
R/. He who is mighty has done great things for me, and holy is his name.
My soul magnifies the Lord,
And my spirit rejoices in God my savior. R/.
For he has regarded the low estate of his handmaiden.
For behold, henceforth all generation will call me blessed;
For he who is mighty has done great things for me,
And holy is his name. R/.
And his mercy is on those who fear him
From generation to generation.
He has shown strength with his arm,
He has scattered the proudÂ
In the imagination of their hearts. R/.
R/. He who is mighty has done great things for me, and holy is his name.
He has put down the mighty from their thrones,
And exalt those of low degree;
He has filled the hungry with good things,
And the rich he has sent empty away. R/.
He has helped his servant Israel,
In remembrance of his mercy,
As he spoke to our fathers,
To Abraham and to his posterity forever. R/.
ALLELUIA
ALLELUIA. Blessed are you, holy Virgin Mary, deserving of all praise. You are the Mother of Christ, you are the Mother of the Church. ALLELUIA
-GOSPEL-
And the mother of Jesus was there.
A reading from the holy Gospel according to John John 2:1-11
At that time: There was a marriage at Cana in Galilee, and the mother of Jesus was there; Jesus also was invited to the marriage, with his disciples. When the wine failed, the mother of Jesus said to him, “They have no wine.” And Jesus said to her, “O woman, what is that to you or to me? My hour has not yet come.” His mother said to the servants, “Do whatever he tells you.” Now six stone jars were standing there, for the Jewish rites of purification, each holding twenty or thirty gallons. Jesus said to them, “fill the jars with water.” And they filled them up to the brim. He said to them, “Now draw some out, and take it to the steward of the feast.” So they took it. When the steward of the feast tasted the water now become wine, and did not know where it came from (though the servants who has drawn the water knew), the steward of the feast called the bridegroom and said to him, “Every man serves the good wine first; and when men have drunk freely, then the poor wine; but you have kept the good wine until now.” This, the first of his signs, Jesus did at Cana in Galilee, and manifested his glory; and his disciples believed in him.
The Gospel of the Lord.
TODAY’S REFLECTION
Bearing false witness against a neighbour, a sin against charity, is an intrinsically evil act victims of such evil should learn to bear it patiently with a loving trust in God, before whom nothing is hidden; especially in situations where the possibility of self-justification is remote or practically impossible. Human suffering becomes spiritually edifying when united with the suffering of Christ. At all times and in all situations we must learn to draw strength from the table of the lord. At the same time we must avoid the risk of seeking God only because of our needs. God made us for us to know him, to love him and to serve him; for these primary reasons we must seek him in addition to our personal needs
Sunday October 8, 2023
27TH SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME
Vestment: Green
Today’s Rosary: The Glorious Mystery
Theme of the Sunday: The Vineyard of the Lord. The first reading and the gospel use the image of a vineyard. Israel, says Isaiah, is the vineyard that the Lord loved, but it yielded only sour grapes. Jesus takes up that same image but with a difference: Isaiah says that the vineyard will be destroyed; Jesus states that the tenants will be replaced and the vineyard will be kept. The second readings, taken together, complement each other. The short passage from the letter to the Philippians can be connected to the theme of this Sunday. Paul insists on the concrete aspect of Christian life. The mark of authenticity of faith are the works of love; fruits that all appreciate.
Entrance Antiphon
Within your will, O Lord, all things are established and there is none that can resist your will. For you have made all things, the heaven and the earth, and all that is held within the circle of heaven; you are the Lord of all.
Collect
Almighty ever-living God, who in the abundance of your kindness surpass the merits and the desires of those who entreat you, pour out your mercy upon us: to pardon what conscience dreads, and to give what prayer does not dare to ask. Through our Lord...
-FIRST READING-
The vineyard of the Lord of hosts is the house of Israel.
A reading from the Book of Isaiah (Isaiah 5:1-7)
Let me sing for my beloved a love song concerning his vineyard: My beloved had a vineyard on a very fertile hill. He dug it and cleared it of stones, and planted it with choice vines; he built a watchtower in the midst of it, and hewed out a wine vat in it; and he looked for it to yield grapes, but it yielded wild grapes. And now, O inhabitants of Jerusalem and men of Judah, judge, I beg you, between me and my vineyard. What more was there to do for my vineyard, that I have not done in it? When I looked for it to yield grapes, why did it yield wild grapes? And now I will tell you what I will do to my vineyard. I will remove its hedge, and it shall be devoured; I will break down its wall, and it shall be trampled down. I will make it a waste; it shall not be pruned or hoed, and briers and thorns shall grow up; I will also command the clouds that they rain no rain upon it. For the vineyard of the Lord of hosts is the house of Israel, and the men of Judah are his pleasant planting; and he looked for justice, but behold, bloodshed; for righteousness, but behold, a cry!
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Ps 80:8 and 11.12-13.14-15 and 17b.18-19(R. Isaiah 5 :7a)
R/. The vineyard of the Lord of hosts is the house of Israel.
You brought a vine out of Egypt;
You drove out the nations and planted it.
It stretched out its branches to the sea;
To the River it stretched out its shoots. R.
Then why have you broken down its walls?
It is plucked by all who pass by the way.
It is ravaged by the boar of the forest,
Devoured by the beasts of the field. R.
God of hosts, turn again, we implore;
look down from heaven and see.
Visit this vine and protect it,
the vine your right hand has planted,
the son of man you have claimed for yourself. R.
And we shall never forsake you again;
give us life that we may call upon your name.
O Lord God of hosts, bring us back;
Let your face shine forth, and we shall be saved. R.
-SECOND READING-
This do and the God of peace will be with you.
A reading from the Letter of Saint Paul to the Philippians (Philippians4:6-9)
Brethren: Have no anxiety about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which passes all understanding, will keep your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. Finally, brethren, whatever is true, whatever is honourable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is gracious, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things. What you have learned and received and heard and seen in me, do; and the God of peace will be with you.
The word of the Lord.
ALLELUIA John 15:16
Alleluia. I chose you from the world that you should go and bear fruit and that your fruit should abide, says the Lord. Alleluia.
-GOSPEL-
He leased the vineyard to other tenants.
A reading from the holy Gospel according to Matthew (Matthew 21:33-43)
At that time: Jesus said to the chief priests and elders of the people, “Hear another parable. There was a householder who planted a vineyard, and set a hedge around it, and dug a wine press in it, and built a tower, and leased it to tenants, and went into another country. When the season of fruit drew near, he sent his ‘servants to the tenants, to get his fruit; and the tenants took his servants and beat one, killed another, and stoned another. Again he sent other servants, more than the first; and they did the same to them. “Afterwards he sent his son to them, saying, ‘They will respect my son.’ “But when the tenants saw the son, they said to themselves, ‘This is the heir; come, let us kill him and have his inheritance.’ And they took him and cast him out of the vineyard, and killed him. When therefore the owner of the vineyard comes, what will he do to those tenants?” They said to him, “He will put those wretches to a miserable death, and lease the vineyard to other tenants who will give him the fruits in their seasons.” Jesus said to them, “Have you never read in the Scriptures: ‘The very stone which the builders rejected has become the cornerstone; this was the Lord’s doing, and it is marvelous in our eyes’? Therefore I tell you, the kingdom of God will be taken away from you and given to a nation producing the fruits of it.
The Gospel of the Lord.
PRAYER OF THE FAITHFUL
The Lord of the vineyard.
PRIEST: Let us pray to the Lord of the vineyard, of which Christ is the vine and we are the branches, for all the graces to make his vineyard fruitful in the world.
READER:
FOR THE CHURCH AND HER LEADERS, (pause) let them tend well the vineyard entrusted to them by the Lord, and let it produce holy men and women for the kingdom. (pause) Father, hear us and give us your peace,
FOR THOSE WHO WORK FOR PEACE, (pause) let them never worry unduly, but commit all their thoughts and activities to the power of the Holy Spirit, who alone can bring their work to a successful conclusion. (pause) Father, hear us and give us your peace,
FOR THE YOUNG PEOPLE OF THE WORLD, (pause) let their potential for a full Christian life be realized, and let them find in the Church the fulfillment of all their hopes and desire. pause Father, hear us and give us your peace,
FOR A SPIRIT OF GRATEFULNESS IN THE COMMUNITY, (pause) let us never take God’s gifts for granted, but always count our blessings and praise the Lord for his goodness to us. (pause) Father, hear us and give us your peace,
We make our private petitions in silence to the Lord of the vineyard.
PRIEST: Father, we make our prayer to you, that what you have sown in us in faith you may bring to completion in love Through Christ our Lord. Amen.
Today’s Reflection
Today the scripture tells us to turn from our wicked ways of face the justice of God. When wa, as creatures of God, begin to bear fruit of the evil one, there is a problem. We practice religiosity so intensely yet our attitude towards others is questionably bad. Isaiah makes a figurative expression of the expectation of God: justice and righteousness. This is realizable when we follow the instructions of St Paul in the second reading, to fill our hearts with whatever is true, whatever is honourable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is gracious. These virtues will guide and guard us in living a righteous life worthy of the plans God has for us. Imbibing these virtues, we will never despise the word of God and his messengers like the tenants did in the Gospel text. Do you treat the word of God with contempt, or disregard ministers of his word? Never forget those you describe as non-entities in the discharge of their duties….. God is interested in those; will you abuse them or speak to them with scorn? When we turn from our wicked ways and fill our hearts with virtues, the fruits of blessedness will follow us, and God’s justice will look upon us with kindness, else we shall be deprived of the kingdom of God.
- True progress quietly and persistently moves along without notice.
- It is not fitting, when one is in God’s service, to have a gloomy face or a chilling look.
- Start by doing what is necessary; then do what’s possible; and suddenly you are doing the impossible.
- It is in pardoning that we are pardoned.
- I have been all things unholy. If God can work through me, he can work through anyone.
Personal Devotional
(Devotion to St. Joseph) EIGHT DAY
St. Bernardine of Siena says that we should be persuaded that our Lord, who respected St. Joseph on earth as his father, will refuse him nothing in heaven; but on the contrary, will most abundantly grant his petitions. Jesus himself advised St. Margaret of Cortona to cherish a special devotion to St. Joseph, and never to allow a day to pass without rendering some homage to him as his foster father. Let us not, then, fail to recommend ourselves each day to St. Joseph and to ask him for graces.
Let Us Pray
St. Joseph, make me faithful in invoking you daily.
THE HOLY ROSARY
When the rosary is recited in a group, there will be a leader (L) and response (R).
If you do not have Rosary beads, it is perfectly okay to count with your fingers, but counting beads frees your mind to help you meditate.
On the first bead say Our Father; on the next three beads recites the Hail Mary, after the third Hail Mary, recite the Glory be, and the Fatima prayers. Before the 1st of the 10 Hail Mary beads, announce the relevant mystery for the day and say Our Father. Say the Glory Be and the Fatima prayers after each decade subsequently.
BEGIN WITH THE SIGN OF THE CROSS
+In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.
L: Come Holy Spirit fill the hearts of the faithful,
R: And enkindle in them the fire of thy love.
L: Send forth thy Spirit and they shall be recreated,
R: And thou shalt renew the face of the earth,
Let us pray:
ALL: O God, who by the light of the Holy Spirit, did instruct the hearts of the faithful, grant that in the same spirit we may be truly wise and ever rejoice in his consolation, through Christ our Lord. Amen.
L: Thou O Lord shall open my lips,
R: And my tongue shall proclaim thy praise,
L: Incline unto my aid O God,
R: O Lord make haste to help me
L: Glory be to the Father, and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit,
R: As it was in the beginning is now and ever shall be, world without end. Amen
THE CREED
L: I believe in God, the Father Almighty, creator of Heaven and earth; and in Jesus Christ, His only Son, Our Lord, Who was conceived by the Holy Spirit, born of the Virgin Mary, suffered under Pontius Pilate, was crucified; died, and was buried. He descended into hell. On the third day, He rose again from the dead, He ascended into Heaven, and is seated at the right hand of God, the Father Almighty; from thence He shall come to judge the living and the dead.
R: I believe in the Holy Spirit, the holy Catholic Church, the communion of saints, the forgiveness of sins, the resurrection of the body, and life everlasting. Amen.
OUR FATHER
L: Our Father, Who art in heaven, hallowed be Thy name; Thy kingdom come; Thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven.
R: Give us this day our daily bread; and forgive us our trespasses as we forgive those who trespass against us; and lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. Amen.
HAIL MARY
L: Hail Mary, full of grace. The Lord is with thee. Blessed art thou amongst women, and blessed is the fruit of thy womb, Jesus.
R: Holy Mary, Mother of God, pray for us sinners, now and at the hour of our death, Amen.
GLORY BE
L: Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit,
R: as it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, world without end. Amen.
FATIMA PRAYER:
ALL: O my Jesus, forgive us of our sins. Save us from the fire of hell. Lead all souls into heaven, especially those in most need of thy mercy.
L: Jesus have mercy on us,
R: Blessed virgin Mary help us,
L: May the souls of all the faithful departed
R: Through the mercy of God rest in peace amen,
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THE GLORIOUS MYSTERIES (Wednesdays and Sundays)
1. The Resurrection
Jesus rises from the dead. Matthew 28:1-10, Luke 24:1-11, John 20:1-10, Romans 6:1-14
2. The Ascension
Jesus leaves the Apostles and bodily "ascends" to heaven. Luke 24:44-53, Acts 1:1-11, Matthew 28:16-20
3. The Descent of the Holy Spirit
The Apostles receive the Holy Spirit in tongues of fire in the upper room with Mary. Acts 2:1-11, John 14:15-21
4. The Assumption
Mary is taken bodily into heaven by God at the end of her life here on earth. John 11:17-27, 1 Corinthians 15:12-57, Revelation 21:1-6
5. The Coronation
Mary is crowned Queen of Heaven and Earth. Revelation 7:1-4,9-12, 21:1-6 Matthew 5:1-12
HAIL HOLY QUEEN
ALL: Hail, holy Queen, Mother of mercy, hail our life, our sweetness and our hope. To thee do we cry, poor banished children of Eve: to thee do we send up our sighs, mourning and weeping in this valley of tears. Turn then, most gracious Advocate, thine eyes of mercy toward us, and after this our exile, show unto us the blessed fruit of thy womb, Jesus. O clement, O loving, O sweet Virgin Mary!
L: Pray for us O Holy Mother of God,
R: That we may be made worthy of the promises of Christ.
L: Let us pray.
All: O God, whose only begotten Son by his life, death, and resurrection has purchased for us the rewards of eternal salvation; grant we beseech thee, that meditating upon these mysteries in the most Holy Rosary of the Blessed Virgin Mary, we may imitate what they contain and obtain what they promise through the same Christ our Lord. Amen.
L: May the divine assistance always remain with us,
R: May the souls of the faithful departed through the mercy of God rest in peace amen.
L: Most Sacred heart of Jesus
R: Have mercy on us
L: Immaculate Heart of Mary
R: Pray for Us
L: Saint Joseph
R: Pray for Us
L: St. John the Evangelist
R: Pray for Us
L: St. Louis Maria de Monfort
R: Pray for Us
LITANY OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN MARY
L. Lord, have mercy.
R. Lord have mercy.
L. Christ have mercy.
R. Christ have mercy
L. Christ hear us.
R. Christ graciously hear us.
God the Father of heaven,
have mercy on us.
God the Son, Redeemer of the world,
have mercy on us.
God the Holy Spirit,
have mercy on us.
Holy Trinity, one God,
have mercy on us.
Holy Mary,
pray for us.
Holy Mother of God,
pray for us.
Holy Virgin of Virgins,
Mother of Christ,
Mother of the Church
MOTHER of Mercy
Mother of divine grace,
MOTHER of Hope
Mother most pure,
Mother most chaste,
Mother inviolate,
Mother undefiled,
Mother most amiable,
Mother most admirable,
Mother of good Counsel,
Mother of our Creator,
Mother of our Savior,
Virgin most prudent,
Virgin most venerable,
Virgin most renowned,
Virgin most powerful,
Virgin most merciful,
Virgin most faithful,
Mirror of justice,
Seat of wisdom,
Cause of our joy,
Spiritual vessel,
Vessel of honor,
Singular vessel of devotion,
Mystical rose,
Tower of David,
Tower of ivory,
House of gold,
Ark of the covenant,
Gate of heaven,
Morning star,
Health of the sick,
Refuge of sinners,
COMFORT of Migrants
Comforter of the afflicted,
Help of Christians,
Queen of Angels,
Queen of Patriarchs,
Queen of Prophets,
Queen of Apostles,
Queen of Martyrs,
Queen of Confessors,
Queen of Virgins,
Queen of all Saints,
Queen conceived without original sin,
Queen assumed into heaven,
Queen of the most holy Rosary,
Queen of families,
Queen of peace,
Lamb of God, who takes away the sins of the world,
Spare us o Lord
Lamb of God, who takes away the sins of the world,
Graciously hear us o Lord
Lamb of God, who takes away the sins of the world,
Have mercy on us
Pray for us, O holy mother of God,
That we may be made worthy of the promises of Christ
Let Us Pray:
Grant we beseech thee, O Lord, that we your servants may enjoy perpetual health of mind and body and by the glorious intercession of the blessed Mary ever Virgin, may be delivered from present sorrows and attain to eternal joy, through Christ our Lord. Amen.
THE MEMORARE
Remember, o most gracious virgin Mary, that never was it known that anyone who fled to thy protection, implore thy help or sought thy intercession was left unaided. Inspired by this confidence, I fly unto thee, o virgin of virgins, my mother, to thee I come, before thee I stand sinful and sorrowful. O mother of the word incarnate, despise not my petition but in thy mercy hear and answer me. Amen.
PRAYER TO ST. MICHAEL
Holy Michael, the Archangel defend us in the day of battle, be our safeguard against the wickedness and snares of the devil. May God rebuke him, we humbly pray and do thou, o prince of the heavenly host, by the power of God, cast into hell, satan and all wicked spirit who wander through the world for the ruin of souls. Amen .
MONDAY October 9, 2023
Weekday (27)
Vestment: Green
Today’s Rosary: The Joyful Mystery
-FIRST READING-
The beginning of the Book of the Prophet Jonah (Jonah 1:1-17; 2: 1.10)
“Jonah rose to flee from the presence of the Lord.”
Now the word of the Lord came to Jonah the son of Amittai, saying, “Arise, go to Nineveh, that great city, and cry against it; for their wickedness has come up before me.” But Jonah rose to flee to Tarshish from the presence of the Lord. He went down to Joppa and found a ship going to Tarshish; so he paid the fare, and went on board, to go with them to Tarshish, away from the presence of the Lord. But the Lord hurled a great wind upon the sea, and there was a mighty tempest on the sea, so that the ship threatened to break up. Then the mariners were afraid, and each cried to his god; and they threw the wares that were in the ship into the sea, to lighten it for them. But Jonah had gone down into the inner part of the ship and had lain down, and was fast asleep. So the captain came and said to him, “What do you mean, you sleeper? Arise, call up on your god! Perhaps the god will give a thought to us, that we do not perish.” And they said to one another, “Come, let its cast lots, that we may know on whose account this evil has come upon us.” So they cast lots, and the lot fell upon Jonah. Then they said to him, “Tell us on whose account this evil has come upon us. What is your occupation? And from where do you come? What is your country? And of what people are you?” And he said to them, “I am a Hebrew; and I fear the Lord, the God of heaven, who made the sea and the dry land.” Then the men were exceedingly afraid, and said to him, “What is this that you have done!” For the men knew that he was fleeing from the presence of the Lord, because he had told them. Then they said to him, “What shall we do to you, that the sea may quiet down for us?” For the sea grew more and more tempestuous. He said to them, “Take me up and throw me into the sea; then the sea will quiet down for you; for I know it is because of me that this great tempest has come upon you.” Nevertheless the men rowed hard to bring the ship back to land, but they could not, for the sea grew more and more tempestuous against them. Therefore they cried to the Lord, “We beg you, O Lord, let us not perish for this man’s life, and lay not on us innocent blood; for you, O Lord, have done as it pleased you.” So they took up Jonah and threw him into the sea; and the sea ceased from its raging. Then the men feared the Lord exceedingly, and they offered a sacrifice to the Lord and made vows. And the Lord appointed a great fish to swallow up Jonah; and Jonah was in the belly of the fish three days and three nights. Then Jonah prayed to the Lord his God from the belly of the fish. And the Lord spoke to the fish, and it vomited out Jonah upon the dry land.
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Jonah 2:2.3.4.7 (R.6d)
R/. You brought up my life from the pit, O Lord.
“I called to the Lord, Out of my distress,
and he answered me;
out of the belly of Sheol cried,
and you heard my voice.” R/.
“For you cast me into the deep,
into the heart of the seas,
and the flood was round about me;
all your waves and your billows
passed over me.” R/.
“Then I said, ‘I am cast out
from your presence;
how shall I again look
upon your holy temple?’” R/.
“When my soul fainted within me,
I remembered the Lord;
And my prayer came to you,
into your holy temple.” R/.
ALLELUIA John13:34
Alleluia. A new commandment I give to you, says the Lord, that you love one another, even as I have loved you. Alleluia.
-GOSPEL-
A reading from the holy Gospel according to Luke (Luke 10:25-37)
“Who is my neighbour?”
At that time: Behold, a lawyer stood up to put Jesus to the test, saying, “Teacher, what shall I do to inherit eternal life?” He said to him, “What is written in the law? What do you read there?” And he answered, “You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your strength, and with all your mind; and your neighbor as yourself.” And he said to him, “You have answered right; do this, and you will live.” But he, desiring to justify himself, said to Jesus, “And who is my neighbour?” Jesus replied, “A man was going down from Jerusalem to Jericho, and he fell among robbers, who stripped him and beat him, and departed, leaving him half dead. Now by chance a priest was going down that road; and when he saw him he passed by on the other side. So likewise a Levite, when he came to the place and saw him, passed by on the other side. But a Samaritan, as he journeyed, came to where he was; and when he saw him, he had compassion, and went to him and bound up his wounds, pouring on oil and wine; then he set him on his own beast and brought him to an inn, and took care of him. And the next day he took out two denarii and gave them to the inn keeper, saying, ‘Take care of him; and whatever more you spend, I will repay you when I come back.’ Which of these three, do you think, proved neighbor to the man who fell among the robbers?” He said, “The one who showed mercy on him.” And Jesus said to him, “Go and do likewise.”
The Gospel of the Lord.
Today’s Reflection
Among the many titles of our Blessed Mother Mary is that of our Lady of the Rosary. This title came about as a result of her maternal intercession and intervention in Cyprus. In 1571, Pope St Pius V organized a coalition of forces comprising soldiers from Spain, Christian knights and military orders to rescue the Christian outpost in Cyprus from a Muslim invasion. The Pope called on Christians in Europe to pray the Rosary for victory and he led a Rosary procession in Rome. After a fierce battle the Pope’s coalition was able to stop the invading Muslims and the victory was ascribed to Our Lady. Never was it said that anyone who sought her patronage or favour was left unanswered. Our spiritual was have to be fought in her company.
Personal Devotional
Reflection on St. Joseph: NINTH DAY
When God, destines anyone for a particular office, he gives him the graces that fit him for it. Therefore, since God chose St. Joseph to fill the office of father over the person of the incarnate word, we must certainly believe that he conferred upon him all the sanctity which belonged to such an office. Gerson says that among other privileges Joseph had three which were special to him. 1. That he was sanctified in his mother’s womb, as were Jeremias and St. John the Baptist. 2. That he was at the same time confirmed in grace. 3. That he was always exempt from the inclinations of concupiscence-a privilege with which St. Joseph by the merit of his purity, favours his devout clients by delivering them from carnal appetites.
Let Us Pray
St. Joseph, shining light of chastity, preserve the angelic virtue in me.
Blessing for the Week
The grace to rise up from sleep comes from the Lord and for this we remain grateful oh Lord. Thank you for giving us this new day and this new week. May your love and mercy follow us in all that we shall do and may we achieve greater things as the week goes by. Amen
May our guardian angels, continue to protect us and keep us safe from every evil and may their presence around us ward off every attack or danger from the evil one. Amen.
May your angels walk with you and defend you day and night and through their ministration, may we be strong and able to overcome the challenges that will come our way.
Angel of God, my guardian dear, to whom his love commits me here. Ever this day be at my side, to light and guard, to rule and guide. Amen.
Dear friend, God is with you. Fear not, go out with confidence and may the good lord bless the work of your hands with fruitfulness in all ramifications. Amen.
Trust your guardian angel and let him take care of you. Do have a wonderful week with lots of testimonies to share each day. Amen.
Meditation: Exodus 23:20-23/Psalm 91/ Matthew 18:1-5,10
THE MIRACULOUS 54-DAY ROSARY NOVENA, 8TH SEPT. TO 31ST OCT. 2023.
FIRST 27 DAYS IN PETITION
GLORIOUS MYSTERIES
DAY 32 THANKSGIVING: Heavenly Father on this Miraculous 54-Day Rosary Novena, we bow our hearts to you and pray, we give you thanks for all you’ve done especially for the gift of Your son Jesus and his Mother Mary. With thankful hearts, we praise You our God who like a loving parent never denies his children good things. Thank you for hearing all our petitions and granting them. May your name be praised for evermore. Amen.
1. + In the name of the Father, and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit Sign of the cross.
2. Hail Mary.
3. Prayer before the recitation of the rosary
Hail, Queen of the Most Holy Rosary, my Mother Mary, hail! At thy feet I gratefully kneel to offer thee a Crown of Roses full blown white roses, tinged with the red of the passion, to remind thee of thy glories, fruits of the sufferings of thy Son and thee each rose recalling to thee a holy mystery; each ten bound together with my petition for a particular grace. O Holy Queen, dispenser of God s graces, and Mother of all who invoke thee! thou canst not look upon my gift and fail to see its binding. As thou receivest my gift, so wilt thou receive my thanksgiving; from thy bounty thou bast given me the favor I so earnestly and trustingly sought. I despaired not of what I asked of thee, and thou hast truly shown thyself my Mother.
4. Say: The Apostles’ Creed, Our Father, 3 Hail Marys, Glory Be.
The Resurrection – Our Father, 10 Hail Marys, Glory Be.
Concluding Prayer: I bind these full-blown roses with a petition for the virtue of faith and humbly lay this bouquet at thy feet.
The Ascension – Our Father, 10 Hail Marys, Glory Be.
Concluding Prayer: I bind these full-blown roses with a petition for the virtue of hope and humbly lay this bouquet at thy feet.
The Descent of the Holy Spirit – Our Father, 10 Hail Marys, Glory Be.
Concluding Prayer: I bind these full-blown roses with a petition for the virtue of charity and humbly lay this bouquet at thy feet.
The Assumption of Mary – Our Father, 10 Hail Marys, Glory Be.
Concluding Prayer: I bind these full-blown roses with a petition for the virtue of union with Christ and humbly lay this bouquet at thy feet.
The Coronation of the Blessed Mother – Our Father, 10 Hail Marys, Glory Be.
Concluding Prayer: I bind these full-blown roses with a petition for the virtue of union with thee and humbly lay this bouquet at thy feet.
6. Say: The Hail Holy Queen.
7. Let us pray: O God whose only begotten son by his life death………..
8. Litany of the Blessed Virgin Mary
9. Sweet Mother Mary, I offer thee this Spiritual Communion to bind my bouquets in a wreath to place upon thy brow in thanksgiving for (specify request) which thou in thy love hast obtained for me. Hail, Mary, etc.
10. + In the name of the Father, and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit amen.
TUESDAY October 10, 2023
Weekday (27)
Vestment: Green
Today’s Rosary: The Sorrowful Mystery
-FIRST READING-
A reading from the Book of the Prophet Jonah (Jonah 3 :1-10)
The Ninevites turned from their evil way, and God repented.
The word of the Lord came to Jonah the second time, saying, “Arise, go to Nineveh, that great city, and proclaim to it the message that I tell you.” So Jonah arose and went to Nineveh, according to the word of the Lord. Now Nineveh was an exceedingly great city, three days’ journey in breadth. Jonah began to go into the city, going a day’s journey. And he cried, “Yet forty days, and Nineveh shall be over thrown!” And the people of Nineveh believed God; they proclaimed a fast, and put on sackcloth, from the greatest of them to the least of them. Then tidings reached the king of Nineveh, and he arose from his throne, removed his robe, and covered himself with sackcloth, and sat in ashes. And he made proclamation and published through Nineveh, “By the decree of the king and his nobles: Let neither man nor beast, herd nor flock, taste anything; let them not feed, or drink water, but let man and beast be covered with sackcloth, and let them cry mightily to God; yes, let every one turn from his evil way and from the violence which is in his hands. Who knows, God may yet repent and turn from his fierce anger, so that we perish not?” When God saw what they did, how they turned from their evil way, God repented of the evil which he had said he would do to them; and he did not do it.
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Psalm130:1-2.3-4.7bc-8(R.3)
R/. If you, O Lord, should mark iniquities, Lord, who could stand?
Out of the depths I cry to you, O Lord,
Lord, hear my voice!
O let your ears be attentive
To the sound of my pleading. R/.
If you, O Lord, should mark iniquities,
Lord, who could stand?
But with you is found forgiveness,
that you may be revered. R/.
For with the Lord there is mercy,
in him is plentiful redemption.
It is he who will redeem Israel
from all its iniquities. R/.
ALLELUIA Luke 11:25
Alleluia. Blessed are those who hear the word of God and keep it. Alleluia.
-GOSPEL-
A reading from the holy Gospel according to Luke (Luke10:38-42)
Martha received him into her house. Mary has chosen the good portion.
At that time: Jesus entered a village; and a woman named Martha received him into her house. And she had a sister called Mary, who sat at the Lord’s feet and listened to his teaching. But Martha was distracted with much serving; and she went to him and said, “Lord, do you not care that my sister has left me to serve alone? Tell her then to help me.” But the Lord answered her, “Martha, Martha, you are anxious and troubled about many things; one thing is needful. Mary has chosen the good portion, which shall not be taken away from her.”
The Gospel of the Lord.
Today’s Reflection
The people of Nineveh sin gravely but Jonah is sent to preach and convert them. He delivers a very harsh message: “Only forty days more and Nineveh will be destroyed.” His message touches the people and, with the king’s declaration, they seek God’s face through internal and external conversion. God shows mercy to Nineveh, but Jonah is not happy because they repent. He had refused to go before as he knew God to be merciful. God wants us to be saved. We need to seek him again and again whenever we stray from him. Once we notice we have strayed, let us quickly return to our loving, merciful father. Sin is always dangerous. Let us not harden our hearts when we see danger.
Personal Devotional
Reflection on St. Joseph: TENTH DAY
In the Gospels St. Joseph is called “Just”. What is meant by a just man? St. Peter Chrysologus says: “it means a perfect man-one who possesses all virtues”. Joseph was already holy before his marriage; but how much must his sanctity have increased after his union with the Blessed Virgin? The example of his holy spouse sufficed to sanctify him; and since Mary is the dispenser of all the graces which God grants to men, in what profusion must she not have showered them down upon her spouse, who she loved so much and by whom she was so tenderly loved!
Let Us Pray
St. Joseph, increase my devotion to Mary.
THE MIRACULOUS 54-DAY ROSARY NOVENA, 8TH SEPT. TO 31ST OCT. 2023.
LAST 27 DAYS IN THANKSGIVING
THE JOYFUL MUSTERIES
Day 33 THANKSGIVING: Heavenly Father on this Miraculous 54-Day Rosary Novena, we bow our hearts to you and pray, we give you thanks for all you’ve done especially for the gift of Your son Jesus and his Mother Mary. With thankful hearts, we praise You our God who like a loving parent never denies his children good things. Thank you for hearing all our petitions and granting them. May your name be praised for evermore. Amen.
1. + In the name of the Father, and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit Sign of the cross.
2. Hail Mary.
3. Prayer before the recitation of the rosary
Hail, Queen of the Most Holy Rosary, my Mother Mary, hail! At thy feet I humbly kneel to offer thee a Crown of Roses, snow white buds to remind thee of thy joys, each bud recalling to thee a holy mystery, each 10 bound together with my petition for a particular grace. O Holy Queen, dispenser of God’s graces, and Mother of all who invoke thee, thou canst not look upon my gift and fail to see its binding. As thou receivest my gift, so wilt thou receive my petition; from thy bounty thou wilt give me the favor I so earnestly and trustingly seek. I despair of nothing that I ask of thee. Show thyself my Mother!
4. The Apostles’ Creed, Our Father, 3 Hail Marys, Glory Be.
The Annunciation – Our Father, 10 Hail Marys, Glory Be.
Concluding Prayer: I bind these snow-white buds with a petition for the virtue of humility and humbly lay this bouquet at thy feet.
The Visitation – Our Father, 10 Hail Marys, Glory Be.
Concluding Prayer: I bind these snow-white buds with a petition for the virtue of charity and humbly lay this bouquet at thy feet.
The Nativity – Our Father, 10 Hail Marys, Glory Be.
Concluding Prayer: I bind these snow-white buds with a petition for the virtue of detachment from the world and humbly lay this bouquet at thy feet.
The Presentation – Our Father, 10 Hail Marys, Glory Be.
Concluding Prayer: I bind these snow-white buds with a petition for the virtue of purity and humbly lay this bouquet at thy feet.
Finding the Child Jesus in the Temple – Our Father, 10 Hail Marys, Glory Be.
Concluding Prayer: I bind these snow-white buds with a petition for the virtue of obedience to the will of God and humbly lay this bouquet at thy feet.
6. The Hail Holy Queen.
7. Let us pray: O God whose only begotten son by his life death………..
8. Litany of the Blessed Virgin Mary
9. Sweet Mother Mary, I offer thee this Spiritual Communion to bind my bouquets in a wreath to place upon thy brow in thanksgiving for (YOUR INTENTION) which thou in thy love hast obtained for me. Hail, Mary, etc.
10. + In the name of the Father, and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.
WEDNESDAY October 11, 2023
Weekday (27)
Vestment: Green/White
Today’s Rosary: The Glorious Mystery
-FIRST READING-
A reading from the Book of the Prophet Jonah (Jonah 4:1-110)
“You pity the plant, and should not I pity Nineveh, that great city?”
It displeased Jonah exceedingly [that God did not do the evil which he had said he would do to Nineveh], and he was angry. And he prayed to the Lord and said, “I pray you, Lord, is not this what I said when I was yet in my country? That is why I made haste to flee to Tarshish; for I knew that you are a gracious God and merciful, slow to anger, and abounding in mercy, and that you repent of evil. Therefore now, O Lord, take my life from me, I beg you, for it is better for me to die than to live.” And the Lord said, “Do you do well to be angry?” Then Jonah went out of the city and sat to the east of the city, and made a booth for himself there. He sat under it in the shade, till he should see what would become of the city. And the Lord God appointed a plant, and made it come up over Jonah, that it might be a shade over his head, to save him from his discomfort. So Jonah was exceedingly glad because of the plant. But when dawn came up the next day, God appointed a worm which attacked the plant, so that it withered. When the sun rose, God appointed a sultry east wind, and the sun beat upon the head of Jonah so that he was faint; and he asked that he might die, and said, “It is better for me to die than to live.” But God said to Jonah, “Do you do well to be angry for the plant?” And he said, “I do well to be angry, angry enough to die.” And the Lord said, “You pity the plant, for which you did not labour, nor did you make it grow, which came into being in a night, and perished in a night. And should not I pity Nineveh, that great city, in which there are more than a hundred and twenty thousand persons who do not know their right hand from their left, and also much cattle?”
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Psalm86:3-4.5-6.9-10(R.See15)
R/. You are slow to anger, O Lord. And abundant in mercy.
Have mercy on me, O Lord,
For I cry to you all the day long.
Gladden the soul of your servant,
For I lift up my soul to you, O Lord. R.
O Lord, you are good and forgiving,
full of mercy to all who call to you.
Give ear, O Lord, to my prayer,
And attend to my voice in supplication. R/.
All the nations you have made shall come;
they will bow down before you, O Lord,
and glorify your name,
for you are great and do marvelous deeds,
you who alone are God. R/.
ALLELUIA Romans 8:15bc
Alleluia. You have received the spirit of sonship; in him we cry, “Abba! Father!” Alleluia.
-GOSPEL-
A reading from the holy Gospel according to Luke (Luke11:1-4)
“Lord, teach us to pray.”
Jesus was praying in a certain place, and when he ceased, one of his disciples said to him, “Lord, teach us to pray, as John taught his disciples.” And he said to them, “When you pray, say: “Father, hallowed be thy name. Thy kingdom come. Give us each day our daily bread; and forgive us our sins, for we ourselves forgive every one who is indebted to us; and lead us not into temptation.”
The Gospel of the Lord.
Today’s Reflection
Jonah does not fully understand God’s ways. He desires the destruction of Nineveh and nothing more. His mission is just fulfil all righteousness; to prepare the people for doom and destruction, which must happen irrespective of the response of the people. But God works differently. He wants us to be saved. God wishes that we turn from death to life. Jonah even values plants more than God’s image (Jonah 4:5-11). But God says, “My image should not perish but reflect him who created it.” God’s mercy surpasses our sins and his love is ever new. If we repent, he welcomes us and puts new songs into our mouth.
Personal Devotional
Reflection on St. Joseph: ELEVENTH DAY
The two disciples, going to Emmaus were inflamed with divine love by the few moments which they spent in company with our Saviour, and by his words. What flames of holy love must not, then, have been enkindled in the heart of St. Joseph, who for thirty years conversed with Jesus Christ, and listened to his words of eternal life; who observed the perfect example which Jesus gave of humility and patience, and saw the promptness with which he obeyed and helped him in his labours, and all that was needed for the household!
Let Us Pray
St. Joseph, inflame us with the love of Jesus.
THE MIRACULOUS 54-DAY ROSARY NOVENA, 8TH SEPT. TO 31ST OCT. 2023.
LAST 27 DAYS IN PETITION
SORROWFUL MYSTERY
Day 34: Thanksgiving: Heavenly Father on this Miraculous 54-Day Rosary Novena, we bow our hearts to you and pray, we give you thanks for all you’ve done especially for the gift of Your son Jesus and his Mother Mary. With thankful hearts, we praise You our God who like a loving parent never denies his children good things. Thank you for hearing all our petitions and granting them. May your name be praised for evermore. Amen.
1. + In the name of the Father, and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit Sign of the cross.
2. Hail Mary.
3. Prayer before the recitation of the rosary
Hail, Queen of the Most Holy Rosary, my Mother Mary, hail! At thy feet I gratefully kneel to offer thee a Crown of Roses snow white buds to remind thee of thy joys each bud recalling to thee a holy mystery; each ten bound together with my petition for a particular grace. O Holy Queen, Dispenser of God’s graces and Mother of all who invoke thee! thou canst not look upon my gift and fail to see its binding. As thou receivest my gift, so wilt thou receive my thanksgiving; from thy bounty thou hast given me the favor I so earnestly and trustingly sought. I despaired not of what I asked of thee, and thou hast truly shown thyself my Mother.
4. Say: The Apostles’ Creed, Our Father, 3 Hail Marys, Glory Be.
5. The Agony in the Garden – Our Father, 10 Hail Marys, Glory Be.
Concluding Prayer: I bind these blood red roses with a petition for the virtue of resignation to the will of God and humbly lay this bouquet at thy feet.
The Scourging at the Pillar – Our Father, 10 Hail Marys, Glory Be.
Concluding Prayer: I bind these blood red roses with a petition for the virtue of mortification and humbly lay this bouquet at thy feet.
The Crowning with Thorns – Our Father, 10 Hail Marys, Glory Be.
Concluding Prayer: I bind these blood red roses with a petition for the virtue of humility and humbly lay this bouquet at thy feet.
The Carrying of the Cross – Our Father, 10 Hail Marys, Glory Be.
Concluding Prayer: I bind these blood red roses with a petition for the virtue of patience in adversity and humbly lay this bouquet at thy feet.
The Crucifixion – Our Father, 10 Hail Marys, Glory Be.
Concluding Prayer: I bind these blood red roses with a petition for the virtue of love of our enemies and humbly lay this bouquet at thy feet.
6. Say: The Hail Holy Queen.
7. Let us pray: O God whose only begotten son by his life death………..
8. Litany of the Blessed Virgin Mary
9. Sweet Mother Mary, I offer thee this spiritual communion to bind my bouquets in a wreath to place upon thy brow. O my Mother! Look with favor upon my gift, and in thy love obtain for me (specify request). Hail Mary …
10. + In the name of the Father, and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit amen.
THURSDAY October 12, 2023
Weekday (27)
Vestment: Green
Today’s Rosary: The Luminous Mystery
-FIRST READING-
A reading from the Book of the Prophet Malachi (Malachi 3:13-4:2a)
“Behold, the day comes, burning like an oven.
Your words have beep stout against me, says the Lord. Yet you say, ‘How have we spoken against you?’ You have said, ‘It is vain to serve God. What is the good of our keeping his charge or of walking as in mourning before the Lord of hosts? Henceforth we deem the arrogant blessed; evildoers not only prosper but when they put God to the test they escape.”’ Then those who feared the Lord spoke with one another; the Lord heeded and heard them, and a book of remembrance was written before him of those who feared the Lord and thought on his name. “They shall be mine, says the Lord of hosts, my special possession on the day when I act, and I will spare them as a man spares his son who serves him. Then once more you shall distinguish between the righteous and the wicked, between one who serves God and one who does not serve him. For behold, the day comes, burning like an oven, when all the arrogant and all evil doers will be stubble; the day that comes shall burn them up, says the Lord of hosts, so that it will leave them neither root nor branch. But for you who fear my name the sun of righteousness shall rise, with healing in its wings.”
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Psalm 1: 1-2.3.4 and 6 (Psalm 40:5ab)
R/. Blessed the man who has placed his trust in the Lord.
Blessed indeed is the man
Who follows not the counsel of the wicked,
nor stands in the path with sinners,
nor abides in the company of scorners,
but whose delight is the law of the Lord,
and who ponders his law day and night. R/.
He is like a tree that is planted
beside the flowing, waters,
that yields its fruit in due season,
and whose leaves shall never fade;
and all that he does shall prosper. R/.
Not so are the wicked, not so!
For they, like winnowed chaff,
shall be driven away by the wind.
For the Lord knows the way of the just,
but the way of the wicked will perish. R/.
ALLELUIA Acts16:14b
Alleluia. Open our hearts, O Lord, that we may give heed to the words of your Son. Alleluia.
-GOSPEL-
A reading from the holy Gospel according to Luke (Luke 11:5-13)
“Ask, and it will be given you.”
At that time: Jesus said to his disciples, “Which of you who has a friend will go to him at midnight and say to him, ‘Friend, lend me three loaves; for a friend of mine has arrived on a journey, and I have nothing to set before him’; and he will answer from within, ‘Do not bother me; the door is now shut, and my children are with me in bed; I cannot get up and give you anything’? I tell you, though he will not get up and give him anything because he is his friend, yet because of his importunity he will rise and give him whatever he needs. And I tell you, Ask, and it will be given you; seek, and you will find; knock, and it will be opened to you. For every one who asks receives, and he who seeks finds, and to him who knocks it will be opened. What father among you, if his son asks for a fish, will instead of a fish give him a serpent; or if he asks for an egg, will give him a scorpion? If you then, who are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will the heavenly Father give the Holy Spirit to those who ask him!”
The Gospel of the Lord.
Today’s Reflection
God supplies our needs according to his own plan and purposes. We need to see God as a friend who knows us through and through and persevere in our relationship with him. God should not be a fair weather friend, but an all-weather friend. God does not disappoint us when we are in need. He helps us to sort our needs and attend to them at his own time. God’s time is always the best, for he makes all things beautiful in his time. We need to know how to ask things from God. This is done through confession of sin and total trust in God.
Personal Devotional
Reflection of St. Joseph: TWELVETH DAY
St. Paul writes that in the next life Jesus Christ “will render to every man according to his works” (Rom. 2:6). What great glory must we not suppose that he has bestowed upon St. Joseph, who served and loved him so much while he lived on earth! Our Lord has promised a reward to him who gives a cup of cold water to the poor in his name. What, then, must be the reward of St. Joseph, who can say to Jesus Christ: “I not only provided thee with food, with a dwelling, and with clothes, but I saved thee from death, delivering thee from the hands of Herod”.
Let Us Pray
St. Joseph, increase our zeal for growing in holiness by the hope of eternal reward.
THE MIRACULOUS 54-DAY ROSARY NOVENA, 8TH SEPT. TO 31ST OCT. 2023.
LAST 27 DAYS IN PETITION
THE GLORIOUS MYSTERIES
DAY 35 THANKSGIVING: Heavenly Father on this Miraculous 54-Day Rosary Novena, we bow our hearts to you and pray, we give you thanks for all you’ve done especially for the gift of Your son Jesus and his Mother Mary. With thankful hearts, we praise You our God who like a loving parent never denies his children good things. Thank you for hearing all our petitions and granting them. May your name be praised for evermore. Amen.
1. + In the name of the Father, and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit Sign of the cross.
2. Hail Mary.
3. Prayer before the recitation of the rosary
Hail, Queen of the Most Holy Rosary, my Mother Mary, hail! At thy feet I gratefully kneel to offer thee a Crown of Roses full blown white roses, tinged with the red of the passion, to remind thee of thy glories, fruits of the sufferings of thy Son and thee each rose recalling to thee a holy mystery; each ten bound together with my petition for a particular grace. O Holy Queen, dispenser of God s graces, and Mother of all who invoke thee! thou canst not look upon my gift and fail to see its binding. As thou receivest my gift, so wilt thou receive my thanksgiving; from thy bounty thou bast given me the favor I so earnestly and trustingly sought. I despaired not of what I asked of thee, and thou hast truly shown thyself my Mother.
4. Say: The Apostles’ Creed, Our Father, 3 Hail Marys, Glory Be.
The Resurrection – Our Father, 10 Hail Marys, Glory Be.
Concluding Prayer: I bind these full-blown roses with a petition for the virtue of faith and humbly lay this bouquet at thy feet.
The Ascension – Our Father, 10 Hail Marys, Glory Be.
Concluding Prayer: I bind these full-blown roses with a petition for the virtue of hope and humbly lay this bouquet at thy feet.
The Descent of the Holy Spirit – Our Father, 10 Hail Marys, Glory Be.
Concluding Prayer: I bind these full-blown roses with a petition for the virtue of charity and humbly lay this bouquet at thy feet.
The Assumption of Mary – Our Father, 10 Hail Marys, Glory Be.
Concluding Prayer: I bind these full-blown roses with a petition for the virtue of union with Christ and humbly lay this bouquet at thy feet.
The Coronation of the Blessed Mother – Our Father, 10 Hail Marys, Glory Be.
Concluding Prayer: I bind these full-blown roses with a petition for the virtue of union with thee and humbly lay this bouquet at thy feet.
6. Say: The Hail Holy Queen.
7. Let us pray: O God whose only begotten son by his life death………..
8. Litany of the Blessed Virgin Mary
9. Sweet Mother Mary, I offer thee this Spiritual Communion to bind my bouquets in a wreath to place upon thy brow in thanksgiving for (specify request) which thou in thy love hast obtained for me. Hail, Mary, etc.
10. + In the name of the Father, and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit amen.
FRIDAY October 13, 2023
Weekday (27)
Vestment: Green
Today’s Rosary: The Sorrowful Mystery
-FIRST READING-
A reading from the Book of the Prophet Joel (Joel 1:13-15;2:1-2)
“The day of the Lord God is coming, a day of darkness and gloom.”
Put on sackcloth and lament, O priests, wail, O ministers of the altar. Go in, pass the night in sackcloth, O ministers of my God! Because cereal offering and drink offering are withheld from the house of your God. Sanctify a fast, call a solemn assembly. Gather the elders and all the inhabitants of the land to the house of the Lord your God; and cry to the Lord. Alas for the day! For the day of the Lord is near, and as destruction from the Almighty it comes. Blow the trumpet in Zion; sound the alarm on my holy mountain! Let all the inhabitants of the land tremble, for the day of the Lord is coming, it is near, a day of darkness and gloom, a day of clouds and thick darkness! Like blackness there is spread upon the mountains a great and powerful people; their like has never been from of old, nor will be again after them through the years of all generations.
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Psalm9:2-3.6 and 16.8-9 (R. see9a)
R/. The Lord will rule the world with justice.
I will praise you, Lord, with all my heart;
all your wonders I will confess.
I will rejoice in you and be glad,
And sing psalms to your name, O Most High. R.
You have rebuked the nations, destroyed the wicked;
you have wiped out their name forever and ever.
The nations have fallen in the pit which they made;
their feet have been caught in the snare they laid. R.
But the Lord sits enthroned forever;
He has set up his throne for judgement.
He will judge the world with justice;
He will govern the peoples with equity. R.
ALLELUIA John 12:31b-32
Alleluia. Now shall the ruler of this world be cast out, says the Lord; and I, when I am lifted up from the earth, will draw all men to myself. Alleluia.
-GOSPEL-
A reading from the holy Gospel according to Luke (Luke 11:15-26)
“If it is by the finger of God that I cast out demons, then the kingdom of God has come upon you.”
At that time: [When Jesus had cast out a demon,] some of the people said, “He casts out demons by Beelzebul, the prince of demons”; while others, to test him, sought from him a sign from heaven. But he, knowing their thoughts, said to them, “Every kingdom divided against itself is laid waste, and house falls upon house. And if Satan also is divided against himself, how will his kingdom stand? For you say that I cast out demons by Beelzebul. And if I cast out demons by Beelzebul, by whom do your sons cast them out? Therefore they shall be your judges. But if it is by the finger of God that I cast out demons, then the kingdom of God has come upon you. When a strong man, fully armed, guards his own palace, his goods are in peace; but when one stronger than he assails him and over comes him, he takes away his armour in which he trusted, and divides his spoil. He who is not with me is against me, and he who does not gather with me scatters. “When the unclean spirit has gone out of a man, he passes through waterless places seeking rest; and finding none he says, ‘I will return to my house from which I came.’ And when he comes he finds it swept and put in order. Then he goes and brings seven other spirits more evil than himself, and they enter and dwell there; and the last state of that man becomes worse than the first.”
The Gospel of the Lord.
Today’s Reflection
Jesus’ popularity brings about jealousy in his listeners. He is accused of healing with the help of Beelzebul, the prince of demons. Not to acknowledge the work of God is a sin and indeed a greater sin when we deny God’s work and ascribe it to demons. God desires to bring wholeness to broken humanity tormented by demons. The children of light always rejoice in God’s marvels in the midst of his people. But the children of darkness are not happy. We sin too when we forget to see good things in others and when we fail to rejoice with those who rejoice.
Personal Devotional
Reflection on St. Joseph: THIRTEENTH DAY
We must believe that the life of St. Joseph, spent in the presence of Jesus and Mary, was a continual prayer, abounding in acts of faith, confidence, love, resignation and oblation. Since, then, the reward of the saints corresponds to their merits during life, consider how great must be the glory of St. Joseph in heaven. St. Augustine compares the other saints to the stars, but St. Joseph to the sun.
It is, then, very reasonable to suppose that St. Joseph, after Mary, surpasses all the other saints in merit and glory. The Venerable Bernardine de Bustis says that when St. Joseph asks any grace for those who are devoted to him, his prayers have in a certain manner the force of a command with Jesus and Mary.
Let Us Pray
St. Joseph, obtain for us a great spirit of prayer.
THE MIRACULOUS 54-DAY ROSARY NOVENA, 8TH SEPT. TO 31ST OCT. 2023.
LAST 27 DAYS IN THANKSGIVING
THE JOYFUL MYSTERIES
Day 36: THANKSGIVING: Heavenly Father on this Miraculous 54-Day Rosary Novena, we bow our hearts to you and pray, we give you thanks for all you’ve done especially for the gift of Your son Jesus and his Mother Mary. With thankful hearts, we praise You our God who like a loving parent never denies his children good things. Thank you for hearing all our petitions and granting them. May your name be praised for evermore. Amen.
1. + In the name of the Father, and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit Sign of the cross.
2. Hail Mary.
3. Prayer before the recitation of the rosary
Hail, Queen of the Most Holy Rosary, my Mother Mary, hail! At thy feet I humbly kneel to offer thee a Crown of Roses, snow white buds to remind thee of thy joys, each bud recalling to thee a holy mystery, each 10 bound together with my petition for a particular grace. O Holy Queen, dispenser of God’s graces, and Mother of all who invoke thee, thou canst not look upon my gift and fail to see its binding. As thou receivest my gift, so wilt thou receive my petition; from thy bounty thou wilt give me the favor I so earnestly and trustingly seek. I despair of nothing that I ask of thee. Show thyself my Mother!
4. The Apostles’ Creed, Our Father, 3 Hail Marys, Glory Be.
The Annunciation – Our Father, 10 Hail Marys, Glory Be.
Concluding Prayer: I bind these snow-white buds with a petition for the virtue of humility and humbly lay this bouquet at thy feet.
The Visitation – Our Father, 10 Hail Marys, Glory Be.
Concluding Prayer: I bind these snow-white buds with a petition for the virtue of charity and humbly lay this bouquet at thy feet.
The Nativity – Our Father, 10 Hail Marys, Glory Be.
Concluding Prayer: I bind these snow-white buds with a petition for the virtue of detachment from the world and humbly lay this bouquet at thy feet.
The Presentation – Our Father, 10 Hail Marys, Glory Be.
Concluding Prayer: I bind these snow-white buds with a petition for the virtue of purity and humbly lay this bouquet at thy feet.
Finding the Child Jesus in the Temple – Our Father, 10 Hail Marys, Glory Be.
Concluding Prayer: I bind these snow-white buds with a petition for the virtue of obedience to the will of God and humbly lay this bouquet at thy feet.
6. The Hail Holy Queen.
7. Let us pray: O God whose only begotten son by his life death………..
8. Litany of the Blessed Virgin Mary
9. Sweet Mother Mary, I offer thee this Spiritual Communion to bind my bouquets in a wreath to place upon thy brow in thanksgiving for (YOUR INTENTION) which thou in thy love hast obtained for me. Hail, Mary, etc.
10. + In the name of the Father, and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.
SATURDAY October 14, 2023
Weekday (27)
Vestment: RED
Today’s Rosary: The Joyful Mystery
B. V. M.
-FIRST READING-
A reading from the Book of the Prophet Joel (Joel 3: 12-21)
“Put in the sickle because the harvest is ripe.”
Thus says the Lord: Let the nations bestir themselves, and come up to the valley of Jehoshaphat; for there I will sit to judge all the nations round about. Put in the sickle, for the harvest is ripe. Go in, tread, for the wine press is full. The vats overflow, for their wickedness is great. Multitudes, multitudes, in the valley of decision! For the day of the Lord is near in the valley of decision. The sun and the moon. Are darkened, and the stars withdraw their shining. And the Lord roars from Zion, and utters his voice from Jerusalem, and the heavens and the earth shake. But the Lord is a refuge to his people, a stronghold to the people of Israel. So you shall know that I am the Lord your God, who dwell in Zion, my holy mountain. And Jerusalem shall be holy and strangers shall never again pass through it. “And in that day the mountains shall drip sweet wine, and the hills shall flow with milk, and all the stream beds of Judah shall flow with water; and a fountain shall come forth from the house of the Lord and water the valley of Shittim. Egypt shall become a desolation and Edom a desolate wilderness, for the violence done to the people of Judah, because they have shed innocent blood in their land. But Judah shall be inhabited for ever, and Jerusalem to all generations. I will avenge their blood, and I will not clear the guilty, for the Lord dwells in Zion.”
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Psalm 97: 1-2.5-6.11 - 12 (R. 12a)
R/. Rejoice in the Lord, you just.
The Lord is king, let earth rejoice;
let the many islands be glad.
Cloud and darkness surround him;
Justice and right are the foundation of his throne. R/.
The mountains melt like wax
before the face of the Lord,
before the face of the Lord of all the earth.
The skies proclaim his justice;
All peoples see his glory. R/.
Light shines forth for the just one,
and joy for the upright of heart.
Rejoice in the Lord, you just;
To the memory of his holiness give thanks. R
ALLELUIA Luke 11:28
Alleluia. Blessed are those who hear the word of God, and keep it. Alleluia.
-GOSPEL-
A reading from tire holy Gospel according to Luke (Luke 11:27-28)
“Blessed is the womb that bore you! Blessed rather are those who hear the word of God.”
At that time: As Jesus was speaking, a woman in the crowd raised her voice and said to him, “Blessed is the womb that bore you, and the breasts that you sucked!” But he said, “Blessed rather are those who hear the word of God and keep it!”
The Gospel of the Lord.
Today’s Reflection
Jesus’ response to the woman who praises the womb and the breasts that nurtured him is admirable. He says, “Blessed rather the one who hears the word and keeps it.” Humanity yearns to relate with God. We know God’s mind through his word. The word communicates God’s mind in every human experience. We should not relate to the word as a distant story, but rather as God who has searched and found us and has given us a valued gift. The gift must be cherished and used properly in tune with the mind of the Giver. Our reading and contact with the word should be with the view of becoming better persons. The word has to effect something positive in us; it has to be internalized so that it bears fruit. Our blessed Mother received the word and bore him in her womb. She also became a disciple of the word. We, like Mary, have to be disciples of the word.
Personal Devotional
Reflection on St. Joseph: FOURTEENTH DAY
To prove the power which St. Joseph possesses in paradise, St. Bernardine of Siena writes thus: “we cannot doubt that Christ accords to St. Joseph, now that he is in heaven, even more perfectly the respect and reverence which he paid to him on earth. Our Lord, who on earth revered St. Joseph as his father, will certainly deny him nothing that he asks in heaven”. Let us then say to him with confidence:
Let Us Pray
St. Joseph, powerful protector of souls, keep us from all sin.
THE MIRACULOUS 54-DAY ROSARY NOVENA, 8TH SEPT. TO 31ST OCT. 2023.
LAST 27 DAYS IN PETITION
SORROWFUL MYSTERIES
DAY 37 THANKSGIVING: Heavenly Father on this Miraculous 54-Day Rosary Novena, we bow our hearts to you and pray, we give you thanks for all you’ve done especially for the gift of Your son Jesus and his Mother Mary. With thankful hearts, we praise You our God who like a loving parent never denies his children good things. Thank you for hearing all our petitions and granting them. May your name be praised for evermore. Amen.
1. + In the name of the Father, and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit Sign of the cross.
2. Hail Mary.
3. Prayer before the recitation of the rosary
Hail, Queen of the Most Holy Rosary, my Mother Mary, hail! At thy feet I gratefully kneel to offer thee a Crown of Roses snow white buds to remind thee of thy joys each bud recalling to thee a holy mystery; each ten bound together with my petition for a particular grace. O Holy Queen, Dispenser of God’s graces and Mother of all who invoke thee! thou canst not look upon my gift and fail to see its binding. As thou receivest my gift, so wilt thou receive my thanksgiving; from thy bounty thou hast given me the favor I so earnestly and trustingly sought. I despaired not of what I asked of thee, and thou hast truly shown thyself my Mother.
4. Say: The Apostles’ Creed, Our Father, 3 Hail Marys, Glory Be.
5. The Agony in the Garden – Our Father, 10 Hail Marys, Glory Be.
Concluding Prayer: I bind these blood red roses with a petition for the virtue of resignation to the will of God and humbly lay this bouquet at thy feet.
The Scourging at the Pillar – Our Father, 10 Hail Marys, Glory Be.
Concluding Prayer: I bind these blood red roses with a petition for the virtue of mortification and humbly lay this bouquet at thy feet.
The Crowning with Thorns – Our Father, 10 Hail Marys, Glory Be.
Concluding Prayer: I bind these blood red roses with a petition for the virtue of humility and humbly lay this bouquet at thy feet.
The Carrying of the Cross – Our Father, 10 Hail Marys, Glory Be.
Concluding Prayer: I bind these blood red roses with a petition for the virtue of patience in adversity and humbly lay this bouquet at thy feet.
The Crucifixion – Our Father, 10 Hail Marys, Glory Be.
Concluding Prayer: I bind these blood red roses with a petition for the virtue of love of our enemies and humbly lay this bouquet at thy feet.
6. Say: The Hail Holy Queen.
7. Let us pray: O God whose only begotten son by his life death………..
8. Litany of the Blessed Virgin Mary
9. Sweet Mother Mary, I offer thee this spiritual communion to bind my bouquets in a wreath to place upon thy brow. O my Mother! Look with favor upon my gift, and in thy love obtain for me (specify request). Hail Mary …
10. + In the name of the Father, and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit amen.
Sunday October 15, 2023
28TH SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME
Vestment: WHITE
Today’s Rosary: The Glorious Mystery
Theme of the Sunday: We Are Invited to a Banquet, Not to a Funeral. The banquet theme joins together the first reading and the gospel. The banquet is the symbol of the happiness and joy present in the kingdom of God. The first reading tells us of a promise; the gospel tells us of its actualisation. If the banquet has already begun (with the coming of the Messiah), why do we still have so much hatred, so many wars, deaths all over the world? Yes, the feast has begun, but the Kingdom is still awaiting its full attainment. The second reading is also connected with this theme. We are given the example of the community at Philippi where there is authentic love and where a completely new life has really begun; the help and the gifts sent to Paul are proof of this.
Entrance Antiphon Ps130:3-4
If you, O Lord, should mark iniquities, Lord, who could stand? But with you is found forgiveness, O God of Israel.
Collect
May your grace, O Lord, we pray, at all times go before us and follow after, and make us always determined to carry out good works. Through our Lord...
-FIRST READING-
The Lord will prepare a feast and will wipe away tears from all faces.
A reading from the Book of Isaiah (Isaiah 25:6-10a)
On this mountain the Lord of hosts will make for all peoples a feast of fat things, a feast of choice wines — of fat things full of marrow, of choice wines well refined. And he will destroy on this mountain the covering that is cast over all peoples, the veil that is spread over all nations. He will swallow up death forever, and the Lord God will wipe away tears from all faces, and the reproach of his people he will take away from all the earth, for the Lord has spoken. It will be said on that day, “Behold, this is our God; we have waited for him, that he might save us. This is the Lord; we have waited for him; let us be glad and rejoice in his salvation.” For the hand of the Lord will rest on this mountain.
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Psalm23:1 -3a.3b-4.5.6 (R.6cd)
R/. In the Lord’s own house shall I dwell for length of days unending.
The Lord is my shepherd;
there is nothing I shall Want.
Fresh and green are the pastures
where he gives me repose.
Near restful waters he leads me;
he revives my soul. R.
He guides me along the right path,
for the sake of his name.
Though I should walk in the valley of the shadow of death,
no evil would I fear, for you are with me.
Your crook and your staff will give me comfort. R.
You have prepared a table before me
in the sight of my foes.
My head you have anointed with oil;
my cup is overflowing. R.
Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me
all the days of my life.
In the Lord’s own house shall I dwell
For length of days unending. R.
-SECOND READING-
I can do all things in him who strengthens me.
A reading from the Letter of Saint Paul to the Philippians (Philippians 4:12-14.19-20)
Brethren: I know how to be abased, and I know how to abound; in any and all circumstances I have learned the secret of facing plenty and hunger, abundance and want. I can do all things in him who strengthens me. Yet it was kind of you to share my trouble. And my God will supply every need of yours according to his riches in glory in Christ Jesus. To our God and Father be glory for ever and ever. Amen.
The word of the Lord.
ALLELUIA Ephesians 1:17-18
Alleluia. May the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ enlighten the eyes of our hearts that we might know what is the hope to which he has called us. Alleluia.
-GOSPEL-
Invite to the marriage feast as many as you find.
A reading from the holy Gospel according to Matthew (Matthew 22: 1-14)
*At that time: Again Jesus spoke to the chief priests and elders of the people, in parables, saying, “The kingdom of heaven may be compared to a king who gave a marriage feast for his son, and sent his servants to call those who were invited to the marriage feast; but they would not come. Again he sent other servants, saying, ‘Tell those who are invited, Behold, I have made ready my dinner, my oxen and my fat calves are killed, and everything is ready; come to the marriage feast. ’ But they made light of it and went off, one to his farm, another to his business, while the rest seized his servants, treated them shamefully, and killed them. The king was angry, and he sent his troops and destroyed those murderers and burned their city. Then he said to his servants, 'The wedding is ready, but those invited were not worthy. Go therefore to the streets, and invite to the marriage feast as many as you find.’ And those servants went out into the streets and gathered all whom they found, both bad and good; so the wedding hall was filled with guests. *“But when the king came in to look at the guests, he saw there a man who had no wedding garment; and he said to him, ‘Friend, how did you get in here without a wedding garment?’ And he was speechless. Then the king said to the attendants, ‘Bind him hand and foot, and cast him into the outer darkness, where there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth. ’ For many are called, but few are chosen.
* The Gospel of the Lord. *
Shorter form: Matthew 22:1- 10. Read between *
PRAYER OF THE FAITHFUL
The Lord has of the vineyard.
PRIEST: Gathered together to celebrate the Eucharist, a foretaste of the heavenly banquet, to which, as Christians, we are invited, let us pray to God for Father for all the graces we need.
READER:
FOR THE PRIEST OF THE CHURCH, (pause) that their celebration of the Eucharist may be the focal point of their lives, and that the joy of this celebration may overcome any doubts or fears that trouble them. (pause) Lord, hear us; and feed us always we pray Oh Lord.
FOR THOSE IN CHARGE OF WORLD RELIEF, (pause) that the Lord’s sharing in the Eucharist may be the measure of their sharing of the world’s goods, so that in every corner of our universe, people will have sufficient for their needs. (pause) Lord, hear us; and feed us always we pray Oh Lord.
FOR THOSE OVERBURDENED WITH WORRY, ESPECIALLY ABOUT MONEY, (pause) that they may know that the Lord always provides for those who put their trust in him, and that there is no problem they cannot solve with the help of the Lord, who gives them strength. (pause) Lord, hear us; and feed us always we pray Oh Lord.
For a deeper appreciation of the Lord’s goodness to us. (pause) that we may never take for granted all the blessings of the Lord: life, above all, the Eucharist. (pause) Lord, hear us; and feed us always we pray Oh Lord.
We pray in silence for our own intentions to the loving Lord who feeds us.
PRIEST:
Father, You have prepared a banquet for us, and so we pray that we may make ourselves ready for the feast. Through Christ our Lord. Amen.
Today’s Reflection
The banquet of finest wine and food is used to describe the peace and joy of the kingdom of God by the prophet Isaiah and Jesus in the gospel text, but two things we must learn from the reading. Firstly, the presence of abundance unlimited and secondly our preparedness to enter this kingdom. St Paul reassures us that God’s presence gives us plenty of unlimited blessings despite distress and hardship whereas Jesus tells us that to be admitted into this kingdom of plentiful abundance we must be prepared in righteousness. People go to church for various reasons among which is social status or pressure. Are you one of those who occupy the spaces in religious assemblies but are not truly prepared to live a holy life? The word of God is addressed to you, to those who proclaim God’s word but are not with their wedding garment on, they are not holy enough. Many are called but few are chosen. Are you among the chosen ones or are you a lip service and bodily presence Christian? We must be prepared to inherit the peace and joy of the kingdom of God. This preparation entails accepting the word of God and not persecuting ministers of the word.
Personal Devotional (October Devotion)
Reflection on St. Joseph: 15TH DAY
We must believe that the life of St. Joseph, spent in the presence of Jesus and Mary, was a continual prayer, abounding in acts of faith, confidence, love, resignation and oblation. Since, then, the reward of the saints corresponds to their merits during life, consider how great must be the glory of St. Joseph in heaven. St. Augustine compares the other saints to the stars, but St. Joseph to the sun.
It is, then, very reasonable to suppose that St. Joseph, after Mary, surpasses all the other saints in merit and glory. The Venerable Bernardine de Bustis says that when St. Joseph asks any grace for those who are devoted to him, his prayers have in a certain manner the force of a command with Jesus and Mary.
Let Us Pray
St. Joseph, obtain for us a great spirit of prayer.
THE HOLY ROSARY
When the rosary is recited in a group, there will be a leader (L) and response (R).
If you do not have Rosary beads, it is perfectly okay to count with your fingers, but counting beads frees your mind to help you meditate.
On the first bead say Our Father; on the next three beads recites the Hail Mary, after the third Hail Mary, recite the Glory be, and the Fatima prayers. Before the 1st of the 10 Hail Mary beads, announce the relevant mystery for the day and say Our Father. Say the Glory Be and the Fatima prayers after each decade subsequently.
BEGIN WITH THE SIGN OF THE CROSS
+In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.
L: Come Holy Spirit fill the hearts of the faithful,
R: And enkindle in them the fire of thy love.
L: Send forth thy Spirit and they shall be recreated,
R: And thou shalt renew the face of the earth,
Let us pray:
ALL: O God, who by the light of the Holy Spirit, did instruct the hearts of the faithful, grant that in the same spirit we may be truly wise and ever rejoice in his consolation, through Christ our Lord. Amen.
L: Thou O Lord shall open my lips,
R: And my tongue shall proclaim thy praise,
L: Incline unto my aid O God,
R: O Lord make haste to help me
L: Glory be to the Father, and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit,
R: As it was in the beginning is now and ever shall be, world without end. Amen
THE CREED
L: I believe in God, the Father Almighty, creator of Heaven and earth; and in Jesus Christ, His only Son, Our Lord, Who was conceived by the Holy Spirit, born of the Virgin Mary, suffered under Pontius Pilate, was crucified; died, and was buried. He descended into hell. On the third day, He rose again from the dead, He ascended into Heaven, and is seated at the right hand of God, the Father Almighty; from thence He shall come to judge the living and the dead.
R: I believe in the Holy Spirit, the holy Catholic Church, the communion of saints, the forgiveness of sins, the resurrection of the body, and life everlasting. Amen.
OUR FATHER
L: Our Father, Who art in heaven, hallowed be Thy name; Thy kingdom come; Thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven.
R: Give us this day our daily bread; and forgive us our trespasses as we forgive those who trespass against us; and lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. Amen.
HAIL MARY
L: Hail Mary, full of grace. The Lord is with thee. Blessed art thou amongst women, and blessed is the fruit of thy womb, Jesus.
R: Holy Mary, Mother of God, pray for us sinners, now and at the hour of our death, Amen.
GLORY BE
L: Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit,
R: as it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, world without end. Amen.
FATIMA PRAYER:
ALL: O my Jesus, forgive us of our sins. Save us from the fire of hell. Lead all souls into heaven, especially those in most need of thy mercy.
L: Jesus have mercy on us,
R: Blessed virgin Mary help us,
L: May the souls of all the faithful departed
R: Through the mercy of God rest in peace amen,
-------------------------------------------------
THE GLORIOUS MYSTERIES (Wednesdays and Sundays)
1. The Resurrection
Jesus rises from the dead. Matthew 28:1-10, Luke 24:1-11, John 20:1-10, Romans 6:1-14
2. The Ascension
Jesus leaves the Apostles and bodily "ascends" to heaven. Luke 24:44-53, Acts 1:1-11, Matthew 28:16-20
3. The Descent of the Holy Spirit
The Apostles receive the Holy Spirit in tongues of fire in the upper room with Mary. Acts 2:1-11, John 14:15-21
4. The Assumption
Mary is taken bodily into heaven by God at the end of her life here on earth. John 11:17-27, 1 Corinthians 15:12-57, Revelation 21:1-6
5. The Coronation
Mary is crowned Queen of Heaven and Earth. Revelation 7:1-4,9-12, 21:1-6 Matthew 5:1-12
HAIL HOLY QUEEN
ALL: Hail, holy Queen, Mother of mercy, hail our life, our sweetness and our hope. To thee do we cry, poor banished children of Eve: to thee do we send up our sighs, mourning and weeping in this valley of tears. Turn then, most gracious Advocate, thine eyes of mercy toward us, and after this our exile, show unto us the blessed fruit of thy womb, Jesus. O clement, O loving, O sweet Virgin Mary!
L: Pray for us O Holy Mother of God,
R: That we may be made worthy of the promises of Christ.
L: Let us pray.
All: O God, whose only begotten Son by his life, death, and resurrection has purchased for us the rewards of eternal salvation; grant we beseech thee, that meditating upon these mysteries in the most Holy Rosary of the Blessed Virgin Mary, we may imitate what they contain and obtain what they promise through the same Christ our Lord. Amen.
L: May the divine assistance always remain with us,
R: May the souls of the faithful departed through the mercy of God rest in peace amen.
L: Most Sacred heart of Jesus
R: Have mercy on us
L: Immaculate Heart of Mary
R: Pray for Us
L: Saint Joseph
R: Pray for Us
L: St. John the Evangelist
R: Pray for Us
L: St. Louis Maria de Monfort
R: Pray for Us
LITANY OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN MARY
L. Lord, have mercy.
R. Lord have mercy.
L. Christ have mercy.
R. Christ have mercy
L. Christ hear us.
R. Christ graciously hear us.
God the Father of heaven,
have mercy on us.
God the Son, Redeemer of the world,
have mercy on us.
God the Holy Spirit,
have mercy on us.
Holy Trinity, one God,
have mercy on us.
Holy Mary,
pray for us.
Holy Mother of God,
pray for us.
Holy Virgin of Virgins,
Mother of Christ,
Mother of the Church
MOTHER of Mercy
Mother of divine grace,
MOTHER of Hope
Mother most pure,
Mother most chaste,
Mother inviolate,
Mother undefiled,
Mother most amiable,
Mother most admirable,
Mother of good Counsel,
Mother of our Creator,
Mother of our Savior,
Virgin most prudent,
Virgin most venerable,
Virgin most renowned,
Virgin most powerful,
Virgin most merciful,
Virgin most faithful,
Mirror of justice,
Seat of wisdom,
Cause of our joy,
Spiritual vessel,
Vessel of honor,
Singular vessel of devotion,
Mystical rose,
Tower of David,
Tower of ivory,
House of gold,
Ark of the covenant,
Gate of heaven,
Morning star,
Health of the sick,
Refuge of sinners,
COMFORT of Migrants
Comforter of the afflicted,
Help of Christians,
Queen of Angels,
Queen of Patriarchs,
Queen of Prophets,
Queen of Apostles,
Queen of Martyrs,
Queen of Confessors,
Queen of Virgins,
Queen of all Saints,
Queen conceived without original sin,
Queen assumed into heaven,
Queen of the most holy Rosary,
Queen of families,
Queen of peace,
Lamb of God, who takes away the sins of the world,
Spare us o Lord
Lamb of God, who takes away the sins of the world,
Graciously hear us o Lord
Lamb of God, who takes away the sins of the world,
Have mercy on us
Pray for us, O holy mother of God,
That we may be made worthy of the promises of Christ
Let Us Pray:
Grant we beseech thee, O Lord, that we your servants may enjoy perpetual health of mind and body and by the glorious intercession of the blessed Mary ever Virgin, may be delivered from present sorrows and attain to eternal joy, through Christ our Lord. Amen.
THE MEMORARE
Remember, o most gracious virgin Mary, that never was it known that anyone who fled to thy protection, implore thy help or sought thy intercession was left unaided. Inspired by this confidence, I fly unto thee, o virgin of virgins, my mother, to thee I come, before thee I stand sinful and sorrowful. O mother of the word incarnate, despise not my petition but in thy mercy hear and answer me. Amen.
PRAYER TO ST. MICHAEL
Holy Michael, the Archangel defend us in the day of battle, be our safeguard against the wickedness and snares of the devil. May God rebuke him, we humbly pray and do thou, o prince of the heavenly host, by the power of God, cast into hell, satan and all wicked spirit who wander through the world for the ruin of souls. Amen .
MONDAY October 16, 2023
Weekday (28)
Vestment: Green
Today’s Rosary: The Joyful Mystery
-FIRST READING-
The beginning of the Letter of Saint Paul to the Romans (Romans1:1-7)
Through Christ we received grace and apostleship to bring about the obedience of faith among all the nations.
Paul, a servant of Jesus Christ, called to be an apostle, set apart for the gospel of God which he promised beforehand through his prophets in the holy Scriptures, the gospel concerning his Son, who was descended from David according to the flesh and designated Son of God in power according to the Spirit of holiness by his resurrection from the dead, Jesus Christ our Lord, through whom we have received grace and apostleship to bring about the obedience of faith for the sake of his name among all the nations, including yourselves who are called to belong to Jesus Christ; to all God’s beloved in Rome, who are called to be saints: Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Psalm98:1.2-3ab.3cd-4 (R.2a)
R/. The Lord has made known his salvation.
O sing a new song to the Lord,
for he has worked wonders.
His right hand and his holy arm
have brought salvation. R/.
The Lord has made known his salvation,
has shown his deliverance to the nations.
He has remembered his merciful love
and his truth for the house of Israel. R/.
All the ends of the earth have seen
the salvation of our God.
Shout to the Lord, all the earth;
break forth into joyous song,
and sing out your praise. R/.
ALLELUIA Psalm95:7cl.Sa
Alleluia. Today, harden not your hearts, but listen to the voice of the Lord. Alleluia.
-GOSPEL-
A reading from the holy Gospel according to Luke (Luke11:29-32)
“No sign will be given to this generation. Except the sign of Jonah.”
At that time: When the crowds were increasing, Jesus began to say, “This generation is an evil generation; it seeks a sign, but no sign shall be given to it except the sign of Jonah. For as Jonah became a sign to the men of Nineveh, so will the Son of man be to this generation. The queen of the South will arise at the judgement with the men of this generation and condemn them; for she came from the ends of the earth to hear the wisdom of Solomon, and behold, something greater than Solomon is here. The men of Nineveh will arise at the judgement with this generation and condemn it; for they repented at the preaching of Jonah, and behold, something greater than Jonah is here.”
The Gospel of the Lord.
Today’s Reflection
Only a heart soaked in unbelief will depend on extraordinary manifestation in order to believe in God. Belief comes before faith; it is the ability to accept an article of faith that has been presented. Faith then becomes a free, conscious acceptance of God’s plans and ways before they come to fulfillment. When we believe, we will surely experience God very close to us even in the most difficult events. To ask for a sign is to doubt God. Hence the reprimand of Jesus: “An evil generation asks for a sign.” The sign God sends even in pain makes us learn to endure, like Jesus during his passion.
Personal Devotional
Reflection on St. Joseph: 16TH DAY
Most holy patriarch, now that you are on a lofty throne in heaven near thy beloved Jesus, who was subject to thee on earth, have pity on me, who am exposed to the attacks of so many enemies, to the evil spirits, and the passions that continually strive to rob me of the grace of God. Through the grace given to thee on earth of enjoying the continual Society of Jesus and Mary, obtain for me the grace of living during the remaining days of my life united to God, by resisting that attacks of hell. Grant, too, that I may die with the love of Jesus and Mary in my heart so that I may be able one day to enjoy with thee, their company in the kingdom of heaven.
Let Us Pray
St. Joseph, grant me a horror of sin and the grace to conquer my passions.
Blessing for the New Week
Lord in your name we shall step out of our homes today to go and do our work and activities. Be with us and bless our efforts.
Thank you for the gift of this new week. Thank you for the gift of life. Thank you for the new opportunity to do your will. Lead us in the right path and may your will be done in our lives.
May your glory shield us from every harm and let our going out and coming in find favour in your sight.
Give us the grace to show charity and help those in need as much as we can and in our times of need, may your divine assistance always be available to lift us up. Amen.
Dear friend, it is a new day and a new week. I wish you the very best in all that you shall do. May God, bless you immensely, lift you up once again and may good things come your way. Be kind, be charitable, be merciful and work hard for it is well with you.
May God remember you and pour out his blessings upon you in abundance. Amen. If God sends you help when you need it, please try to help others who are in need of your help too.
Meditation: Luke 10:25-37
THE MIRACULOUS 54-DAY ROSARY NOVENA, 8TH SEPT. TO 31ST OCT. 2023.
LAST 27 DAYS IN THANKSGIVING
THE JOYFUL MYSTERIES
Day 39: THANKSGIVING: Heavenly Father on this Miraculous 54-Day Rosary Novena, we bow our hearts to you and pray, we give you thanks for all you’ve done especially for the gift of Your son Jesus and his Mother Mary. With thankful hearts, we praise You our God who like a loving parent never denies his children good things. Thank you for hearing all our petitions and granting them. May your name be praised for evermore. Amen.
1. + In the name of the Father, and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit Sign of the cross.
2. Hail Mary.
3. Prayer before the recitation of the rosary
Hail, Queen of the Most Holy Rosary, my Mother Mary, hail! At thy feet I humbly kneel to offer thee a Crown of Roses, snow white buds to remind thee of thy joys, each bud recalling to thee a holy mystery, each 10 bound together with my petition for a particular grace. O Holy Queen, dispenser of God’s graces, and Mother of all who invoke thee, thou canst not look upon my gift and fail to see its binding. As thou receivest my gift, so wilt thou receive my petition; from thy bounty thou wilt give me the favor I so earnestly and trustingly seek. I despair of nothing that I ask of thee. Show thyself my Mother!
4. The Apostles’ Creed, Our Father, 3 Hail Marys, Glory Be.
The Annunciation – Our Father, 10 Hail Marys, Glory Be.
Concluding Prayer: I bind these snow-white buds with a petition for the virtue of humility and humbly lay this bouquet at thy feet.
The Visitation – Our Father, 10 Hail Marys, Glory Be.
Concluding Prayer: I bind these snow-white buds with a petition for the virtue of charity and humbly lay this bouquet at thy feet.
The Nativity – Our Father, 10 Hail Marys, Glory Be.
Concluding Prayer: I bind these snow-white buds with a petition for the virtue of detachment from the world and humbly lay this bouquet at thy feet.
The Presentation – Our Father, 10 Hail Marys, Glory Be.
Concluding Prayer: I bind these snow-white buds with a petition for the virtue of purity and humbly lay this bouquet at thy feet.
Finding the Child Jesus in the Temple – Our Father, 10 Hail Marys, Glory Be.
Concluding Prayer: I bind these snow-white buds with a petition for the virtue of obedience to the will of God and humbly lay this bouquet at thy feet.
6. The Hail Holy Queen.
7. Let us pray: O God whose only begotten son by his life death………..
8. Litany of the Blessed Virgin Mary
9. Sweet Mother Mary, I offer thee this Spiritual Communion to bind my bouquets in a wreath to place upon thy brow in thanksgiving for (YOUR INTENTION) which thou in thy love hast obtained for me. Hail, Mary, etc.
10. + In the name of the Father, and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.
TUESDAY October 17, 2023
Weekday (28)
Vestment: GREEN
Today’s Rosary: The Sorrowful Mystery
-FIRST READING-
A reading from the Letter of Saint Paul to the Romans (Romans 1:16-25)
“Although they knew God they did not honour him as God.”
Brethren: I am not ashamed of the gospel: it is the power of God for salvation to every one who has faith, to the Jew first and also to the Greek. For in it the righteousness of God is revealed through faith for faith; as it is written, “He who through faith is righteous shall live.” For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and wickedness of men who by their wickedness suppress the truth. For what can be known about God is plain to them, because God has shown it to them. Ever since the creation of the world his invisible nature, namely, his eternal power and deity, has been clearly perceived in the things that have been made. So they are without excuse; for although they knew God they did not honour him as God or give thanks to him, but they became futile in their thinking and their senseless minds were darkened. Claiming to be wise, they became fools, and exchanged the glory of the immortal God for images resembling mortal man or birds or animals or reptiles. Therefore God gave them up in the lusts of their hearts to impurity, to the dishonouring of their bodies among themselves, because they exchanged the truth about God for a lie and worshipped and served the creature rather than the Creator, who is blessed for ever! Amen.
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM psalm 19:2-3.4-5 (R. 2a)
R/. The heavens declare the glory of God.
The heavens declare the glory of God,
and the firmament proclaims the work of his hands.
Day unto day conveys the message,
and night unto night imparts the knowledge. R/.
No speech, no word, whose voice goes unheeded;
their sound goes forth through all the earth,
their message to the utmost bounds of the world. R/.
ALLELUIA Hebrews 4:12
Alleluia. The word of the Lord is living and active, discerning the thoughts and intentions of the heart. Alleluia.
-GOSPEL-
A reading from the holy Gospel according to Luke (Luke 11:37-41)
“Give alms; and behold, everything is clean for you.”
At that time: While Jesus was speaking, a Pharisee asked him to dine with him; so he went in and sat at table. The Pharisee was astonished to see that he did not first wash before dinner. And the Lord said to him, “Now you Pharisees cleanse the outside of the cup and of the dish, but inside you are full of extortion and wickedness. You fools! Did not he who made the outside make the inside also? But give for alms those things which are within; and behold, everything is clean for you.”
The Gospel of the Lord.
Today’s Reflection
St Teresa, a Spanish Discalced Carmelite nun, was a mistress of prayer. She teaches us how to pray and be in close relationship with God. It is taking time to be with the One who loves us. With her definition of prayer as a friendly relationship, a frequent solitary conversation with him who we know loves, she shares her mystical experiences of God. For Teresa, what matters in prayer is not to think but to love much. Thus in prayer we do whatever causes us to love. So prayer is not a mere theological discussion but an attempt to tell God we love him and we try to love him more and more. This love is measured by the presence of the virtues of love for one’s neighbour, detachment and humility in a praying person.
Personal Devotional
Reflection on St. Joseph: 17TH DAY
St. Bernard, speaking of St. Joseph’s power of dispensing graces to his devout servants, makes use of the following remarkable words: “To some of the saints power is granted to succour us in particular necessities; but to St. Joseph power is granted to succour in all necessities, and to defend all those who, with devotion, have recourse to him.” Let us then often say to him:
Let Us Pray
St. Joseph, help us when we are in need.
THE MIRACULOUS 54-DAY ROSARY NOVENA, 8TH SEPT. TO 31ST OCT. 2023.
LAST 27 DAYS IN PETITION
SORROWFUL MYSTERIES
Day 40 Thanksgiving: Heavenly Father on this Miraculous 54-Day Rosary Novena, we bow our hearts to you and pray, we give you thanks for all you’ve done especially for the gift of Your son Jesus and his Mother Mary. With thankful hearts, we praise You our God who like a loving parent never denies his children good things. Thank you for hearing all our petitions and granting them. May your name be praised for evermore. Amen.
1. + In the name of the Father, and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit Sign of the cross.
2. Hail Mary.
3. Prayer before the recitation of the rosary
Hail, Queen of the Most Holy Rosary, my Mother Mary, hail! At thy feet I gratefully kneel to offer thee a Crown of Roses snow white buds to remind thee of thy joys each bud recalling to thee a holy mystery; each ten bound together with my petition for a particular grace. O Holy Queen, Dispenser of God’s graces and Mother of all who invoke thee! thou canst not look upon my gift and fail to see its binding. As thou receivest my gift, so wilt thou receive my thanksgiving; from thy bounty thou hast given me the favor I so earnestly and trustingly sought. I despaired not of what I asked of thee, and thou hast truly shown thyself my Mother.
4. Say: The Apostles’ Creed, Our Father, 3 Hail Marys, Glory Be.
5. The Agony in the Garden – Our Father, 10 Hail Marys, Glory Be.
Concluding Prayer: I bind these blood red roses with a petition for the virtue of resignation to the will of God and humbly lay this bouquet at thy feet.
The Scourging at the Pillar – Our Father, 10 Hail Marys, Glory Be.
Concluding Prayer: I bind these blood red roses with a petition for the virtue of mortification and humbly lay this bouquet at thy feet.
The Crowning with Thorns – Our Father, 10 Hail Marys, Glory Be.
Concluding Prayer: I bind these blood red roses with a petition for the virtue of humility and humbly lay this bouquet at thy feet.
The Carrying of the Cross – Our Father, 10 Hail Marys, Glory Be.
Concluding Prayer: I bind these blood red roses with a petition for the virtue of patience in adversity and humbly lay this bouquet at thy feet.
The Crucifixion – Our Father, 10 Hail Marys, Glory Be.
Concluding Prayer: I bind these blood red roses with a petition for the virtue of love of our enemies and humbly lay this bouquet at thy feet.
6. Say: The Hail Holy Queen.
7. Let us pray: O God whose only begotten son by his life death………..
8. Litany of the Blessed Virgin Mary
9. Sweet Mother Mary, I offer thee this spiritual communion to bind my bouquets in a wreath to place upon thy brow. O my Mother! Look with favor upon my gift, and in thy love obtain for me (specify request). Hail Mary …
10. + In the name of the Father, and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit amen.
WEDNESDAY October 18, 2023
Weekday (28) ordinary Time
Vestment: Red
Today’s Rosary: The Glorious Mystery
St Luke the Evangelist. (Feast)
Luke, a doctor and a well educated man, embraced the Christian faith and became a companion of Saint Paul in his apostolic journeys. He is the author of the third Gospel and of the Acts of the Apostles. He portrays in a special way the gentleness and compassion of the Lord, the action of the Holy Spirit and the role of Mary as the mother of Jesus and of the Church.
Entrance Antiphon Is. 52:7
How beautiful upon the mountains are the feet of him who brings glad tidings of peace, bearing good news, announcing salvation!
Collect
Lord God, who chose Saint Luke to reveal by his preaching and writings the mystery of your love for the poor, grant that those who already glory in your name may persevere as one heart and one soul, and that all nations may merit to see your salvation. Through our Lord...
-FIRST READING-
A reading from the second Letter of Saint Paul to Timothy (2 Timothy 4:10-17ab)
Luke alone is with me.
Beloved: Demas, in love with this present world, has deserted me and gone to Thessalonica; Crescens has gone to Galatia, Titus to Dalmatia. Luke alone is with me. Get Mark and bring him with you; for he is very useful in serving me. Tychicus I have sent to Ephesus. When you come, bring the cloak that I left with Carpus at Troas, also the books, and above all the parchments. Alexander the coppersmith did me great harm; the Lord will pay him back for his deeds. Beware of him yourself, for he strongly opposed our message. At my first defence no one took my part; all deserted me. May it not be charged against them! But the Lord stood by me and gave me strength to proclaim the word fully, that all the Gentiles might hear it.
The word of the Lord
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Ps 145:10-11, 12-13ab, 17-18 (R. see 12a)
R/. Your saints, O Lord,
make known the glory of your reign.
All your works shall thank you, O Lord,
And all your faithful ones bless you.
They shall speak of the glory of your reign,
And declare your mighty deeds. R/.
To make known your might to the children of men,
And the glorious splendour of your reign.
Your kingdom is an everlasting kingdom;
Your rule endures for all generations. R/.
The Lord is just in all his ways,
And holy in all his deeds.
The Lord is close to all who call him,
Who call on him in truth. R/.
ALLELUIA John 15:16
Alleluia. I chose you from the world that you should go and bear fruit and that fruit should abide, says the Lord. Alleluia.
-GOSPEL-
A reading from the holy Gospel according to Luke (Luke 10:1-9)
The harvest is plentiful, but the labourers are few
At that time: The Lord appointed seventy others, and sent them on ahead of him, two by two, into every town and place where he himself was about to come. And he said to them, “The harvest is plentiful, but the labourers are few; pray therefore the Lord of the harvest to send out labourers into his harvest. Go your way; behold, I send you out as lambs in the midst of wolves. Carry no purse, no bag, no sandals; and salute no one on the road. Whatever house you enter, first say, ‘peace be to this house!’ And if a son of peace is there, your peace shall rest upon him; but if not, it shall return to you. And remain in the same house, eating and drinking what they provide, for the labourer deserves his wages; do not go from house to house. Whenever you enter a town and they receive you, eat what is set before you; heal the sick in it and say to them, ‘The kingdom of God has come near to you.
The Gospel of the Lord.
Today’s Reflection
Luke is a worthy companion of St Paul, the Apostle. Even when others desert him, Luke stays with Paul as a companion in his mission. Through this, Luke is able to learn more about the scripture and later writes his Gospel and the Acts of the Apostles. In the Gospel, Jesus appoints the seventy two and sends them out two by two. A companion is necessary in preaching the word. Company helps because it gives confidence that one is not alone. It brings about some sharing before going to preach and it makes for better evangelization. Preachers of the word should learn how to live in company as it helps in evangelization. Communion with one another make us share in communion with God.
Personal Devotional
Reflection on St. Joseph: EIGHTEENTH DAY
Let us ask St. Joseph for the grace to love our Lord Jesus Christ. This is the particular grace which St. Joseph obtains for those who are devout to him-a tender love toward the incarnate word. The saint merited the power to bestow this grace upon his servants by the great love which he himself bore toward Jesus while he lived on earth.
Let Us Pray
St. Joseph, make me love Jesus with all my heart.
THE MIRACULOUS 54-DAY ROSARY NOVENA, 8TH SEPT. TO 31ST OCT. 2023.
LAST 27 DAYS IN PETITION
THE SORROWFUL MYSTERIES
Day 41 Thanksgiving: Heavenly Father on this Miraculous 54-Day Rosary Novena, we bow our hearts to you and pray, we give you thanks for all you’ve done especially for the gift of Your son Jesus and his Mother Mary. With thankful hearts, we praise You our God who like a loving parent never denies his children good things. Thank you for hearing all our petitions and granting them. May your name be praised for evermore. Amen.
1. + In the name of the Father, and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit Sign of the cross.
2. Hail Mary.
3. Prayer before the recitation of the rosary
Hail, Queen of the Most Holy Rosary, my Mother Mary, hail! At thy feet I gratefully kneel to offer thee a Crown of Roses snow white buds to remind thee of thy joys each bud recalling to thee a holy mystery; each ten bound together with my petition for a particular grace. O Holy Queen, Dispenser of God’s graces and Mother of all who invoke thee! thou canst not look upon my gift and fail to see its binding. As thou receivest my gift, so wilt thou receive my thanksgiving; from thy bounty thou hast given me the favor I so earnestly and trustingly sought. I despaired not of what I asked of thee, and thou hast truly shown thyself my Mother.
4. Say: The Apostles’ Creed, Our Father, 3 Hail Marys, Glory Be.
5. The Agony in the Garden – Our Father, 10 Hail Marys, Glory Be.
Concluding Prayer: I bind these blood red roses with a petition for the virtue of resignation to the will of God and humbly lay this bouquet at thy feet.
The Scourging at the Pillar – Our Father, 10 Hail Marys, Glory Be.
Concluding Prayer: I bind these blood red roses with a petition for the virtue of mortification and humbly lay this bouquet at thy feet.
The Crowning with Thorns – Our Father, 10 Hail Marys, Glory Be.
Concluding Prayer: I bind these blood red roses with a petition for the virtue of humility and humbly lay this bouquet at thy feet.
The Carrying of the Cross – Our Father, 10 Hail Marys, Glory Be.
Concluding Prayer: I bind these blood red roses with a petition for the virtue of patience in adversity and humbly lay this bouquet at thy feet.
The Crucifixion – Our Father, 10 Hail Marys, Glory Be.
Concluding Prayer: I bind these blood red roses with a petition for the virtue of love of our enemies and humbly lay this bouquet at thy feet.
6. Say: The Hail Holy Queen.
7. Let us pray: O God whose only begotten son by his life death………..
8. Litany of the Blessed Virgin Mary
9. Sweet Mother Mary, I offer thee this spiritual communion to bind my bouquets in a wreath to place upon thy brow. O my Mother! Look with favor upon my gift, and in thy love obtain for me (specify request). Hail Mary …
10. + In the name of the Father, and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit amen.
THURSDAY October 19, 2023
Weekday (28)
Vestment: Red
Today’s Rosary: The Luminous Mystery
-FIRST READING-
A reading from the Letter of Saint Paul to the Romans (Romans 3:21-30)
A man is justified by faith apart from works of law.
Brethren: Now the righteousness of God has been manifested apart from law, although the law and the prophets bear witness to it, the righteousness of God through faith in Jesus Christ for all who believe. For there is no distinction; since all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, they are justified by his grace as a gift, through the redemption which is in Christ Jesus, whom God put forward as an expiation by his blood, to be received by faith. This was to show God’s righteousness, because in his divine forbearance he had passed over former sins; it was to prove at the present time that he himself is righteous and that he justifies him who has faith in Jesus. Then what becomes of our boasting? It is excluded. On what principle? On the principle of works? No, but on the principle of faith. For we hold that a man is justified by faith apart from works of law. Or is God the God of Jews only? Is he not the God of Gentiles also? Yes, of Gentiles also, since God is one; and he will justify the circumcised on the ground of their faith and the uncircumcised through their faith.
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIALPSALM Psalm130:1-2.3-4.5-6ab (R.7bc)
R/. With the Lord there is mercy, in him is plentiful redemption.
Out of the depths I cry to you; O Lord;
Lord, hear my voice!
O let your ears be attentive
To the sound of my pleading. R/.
If you, O Lord, should mark iniquities,
Lord, who could stand?
But with you is found forgiveness,
that you may be revered. R/.
I long for you, O Lord,
My soul longs for his word.
My soul hopes in the Lord
More than watchmen for daybreak. R/.
ALLELUIA John 14:6
Alleluia. I am the way, and the truth, and the life, says the Lord; no one comes to the Father but by me. Alleluia.
-GOSPEL-
A reading from the holy Gospel according to Luke (Luke11:47-54)
The blood of the prophets will be required, from the blood of Abel to the blood of Zechariah.
At that time: Jesus said, “Woe to you! For you build the tombs of the prophets whom your fathers killed. So you are witnesses and consent to the deeds of your fathers; for they killed them, and you build their tombs. Therefore also the Wisdom of God said, ‘I will send them prophets and apostles, some of whom they will kill and persecute,’ that the blood of all the prophets, shed from the foundation of the world, may be required of this generation, from the blood of Abel to the blood of Zechariah, who perished between the altar and the sanctuary. Yes, I tell you, it shall be required of this generation. Woe to you lawyers! For you have taken away the key of knowledge; you did not enter yourselves, and you hindered those who were entering.” As he went away from there, the scribes and the Pharisees began to press him hard, and to provoke him to speak of many things, lying in wait for him, to catch him in something he might say.
The Gospel of the Lord.
Today’s Reflection
Jesus’ utterance against the Pharisees and lawyers shows what they did not do well. The Pharisees join in the persecution of the prophets, adopting the same attitude as their fathers. Just as their fathers did to the prophets of old, they reject Jesus’ message. The lawyers, taking away the keys of knowledge, charge high fees and thwart justice. Jesus comes for the liberation of humanity from oppression. He has to address these ills because they suppress and oppress people. Let us keep in mind, when oppressed by anyone that Jesus is here to liberate us. He will give us the heart and the will to pull through when negative events come our way.
Personal Devotional
Reflection on St. Joseph: NINETEENTH DAY
St. Teresa also writes: “I would wish to persuade all the world to be devoted to St. Joseph, because I have long experience of the great favours which he obtains from God. I have never known any soul especially devoted to him that did not always advance in virtue. I ask, for God’s sake, that they who do not believe me will at least make a trial of this devotion. I cannot believe that favours are not granted to St. Joseph in return for the help which he gave on earth to Jesus and Mary”.
Let Us Pray
St. Joseph, patron of the interior life, lead me to that perfection which God requires of me.
THE MIRACULOUS 54-DAY ROSARY NOVENA, 8TH SEPT. TO 31ST OCT. 2023.
LAST 27 DAYS IN THANKSGIVING
THE JOYFUL MYSTERIES
Day 42 THANKSGIVING: Heavenly Father on this Miraculous 54-Day Rosary Novena, we bow our hearts to you and pray, we give you thanks for all you’ve done especially for the gift of Your son Jesus and his Mother Mary. With thankful hearts, we praise You our God who like a loving parent never denies his children good things. Thank you for hearing all our petitions and granting them. May your name be praised for evermore. Amen.
1. + In the name of the Father, and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit Sign of the cross.
2. Hail Mary.
3. Prayer before the recitation of the rosary
Hail, Queen of the Most Holy Rosary, my Mother Mary, hail! At thy feet I humbly kneel to offer thee a Crown of Roses, snow white buds to remind thee of thy joys, each bud recalling to thee a holy mystery, each 10 bound together with my petition for a particular grace. O Holy Queen, dispenser of God’s graces, and Mother of all who invoke thee, thou canst not look upon my gift and fail to see its binding. As thou receivest my gift, so wilt thou receive my petition; from thy bounty thou wilt give me the favor I so earnestly and trustingly seek. I despair of nothing that I ask of thee. Show thyself my Mother!
4. The Apostles’ Creed, Our Father, 3 Hail Marys, Glory Be.
The Annunciation – Our Father, 10 Hail Marys, Glory Be.
Concluding Prayer: I bind these snow-white buds with a petition for the virtue of humility and humbly lay this bouquet at thy feet.
The Visitation – Our Father, 10 Hail Marys, Glory Be.
Concluding Prayer: I bind these snow-white buds with a petition for the virtue of charity and humbly lay this bouquet at thy feet.
The Nativity – Our Father, 10 Hail Marys, Glory Be.
Concluding Prayer: I bind these snow-white buds with a petition for the virtue of detachment from the world and humbly lay this bouquet at thy feet.
The Presentation – Our Father, 10 Hail Marys, Glory Be.
Concluding Prayer: I bind these snow-white buds with a petition for the virtue of purity and humbly lay this bouquet at thy feet.
Finding the Child Jesus in the Temple – Our Father, 10 Hail Marys, Glory Be.
Concluding Prayer: I bind these snow-white buds with a petition for the virtue of obedience to the will of God and humbly lay this bouquet at thy feet.
6. The Hail Holy Queen.
7. Let us pray: O God whose only begotten son by his life death………..
8. Litany of the Blessed Virgin Mary
9. Sweet Mother Mary, I offer thee this Spiritual Communion to bind my bouquets in a wreath to place upon thy brow in thanksgiving for (YOUR INTENTION) which thou in thy love hast obtained for me. Hail, Mary, etc.
10. + In the name of the Father, and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.
Friday October 20, 2023
Weekday (28) ordinary Time
Vestment: White
Today’s Rosary: The Sorrowful Mystery
-FIRST READING-
Abraham believed God, and it was reckoned to him as righteousness.
A reading from the Letter of Saint Paul to the Romans (Romans4:1-8).
Brethren: What shall we say about Abraham, our forefather according to the flesh? For if Abraham was justified by works, he has something to boast about, but not before God. For what does the Scripture say? “Abraham believed God, and it was reckoned to him as righteousness.” Now to one who works, his wages are not reckoned as a gift but as his due. And to one who does not work but trusts him who justifies the ungodly, his faith is reckoned as righteousness. So also David pronounces a blessing upon the man to whom God reckons righteousness apart from works: “Blessed are those whose iniquities are forgiven, and whose sins are covered blessed is the man against whom the Lord will not reckon his sin.”
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Psalm 32: 1-2.5.11 (R. see 7).
R/. You are a hiding place for me,
you surround me with cries of deliverance.
Blessed is he whose transgression is forgiven,
whose sin is remitted.
Blessed the man to whom the Lord imputes no guilt,
in whose spirit is no guile. R/.
To you I have acknowledged my sin;
my guilt I did not hide.
I said, “I will confess my transgression to the Lord.
And you have forgiven the guilt of my sin. R/.
Rejoice in the Lord, exult you just!
Ring out your joy, all you upright of heart! R/.
ALLELUIA Psalm 33:22
Alleluia. May your merciful love be upon us, as we hope in you, O Lord. Alleluia.
-GOSPEL-
Even the hairs of your head are all numbered.
A reading from the holy Gospel according to Luke (Luke 12:1-7).
At that time: When so many thousands of the multitude had gathered together that they trod upon one another, Jesus began to say to his disciples first, “Beware of the leaven of the Pharisees, which is hypocrisy. Nothing is covered up that will not be revealed, or hidden that will not be known. Whatever you have said in the dark shall be heard in the light, and what you have whispered in private rooms shall be proclaimed upon the housetops. “I tell you, my friends, do not fear those who kill the body, and after that have no more that they can do. But I will warn you whom to fear: fear him who, after he has killed, has power to cast into hell; yes, I tell you, fear him! Are not five sparrows sold for two pennies? And not one of them is forgotten before God. Why, even the hairs of your head are all numbered. Fear not; you are of more value than many sparrows.
The Gospel of the Lord.
Today’s Reflection
Hypocrisy is a vice that robs faith of its very essence. According to Pope Francis, hypocrisy destroys the Church. A lot of Christians who practice a Christianity of convenience give in to hypocrisy because they profess faith but will not practice it. This leads to a fake life. Jesus warns us to be on guard against false pretenses, to be true to ourselves and God. Like St. Teresa of Avila, we must be conscious of the need for improvement in our spiritual life. What areas of my Christian life do I need to be true to? Do I claim to be what I am not? Being true and open to God’s grace gives us strength to live up to expectations.
- Be gentle to all and stern with yourself.
- We always find that those who walked closest to Christ were those who had to bear the greatest trials.
- One who makes no mistakes, makes nothing.
- Pain is never permanent.
- Know that even when you are in the kitchen, our Lord moves amidst the pots and pans.
Personal Devotional
Reflection on St. Joseph: Day 20
St. Bernard, speaking of St. Joseph’s power of dispensing graces to his devout servants, makes use of the following remarkable words: “To some of the saints’ power is granted to succour us in particular necessities; but to St. Joseph power is granted to succour in all necessities, and to defend all those who, with devotion, have recourse to him.” Let us then often say to him:
Let Us Pray
St. Joseph, help us when we are in need.
THE MIRACULOUS 54-DAY ROSARY NOVENA
LAST 27 DAYS IN THANKSGIVING
Day 43: THE SORROWFUL MYSTERIES
1. Sign of the Cross:
In the name of the Father, and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit Amen
PERSONAL INTENTION: Heavenly Father on this Miraculous 54-Day Rosary Novena, we bow our hearts to you and pray, we give you thanks for all you’ve done especially for the gift of Your son Jesus and his Mother Mary. With thankful hearts, we praise You our God who like a loving parent never denies his children good things. Thank you for hearing all our petitions and granting them. May your name be praised for evermore. Amen.
2. Hail Mary:
Hail Mary, full of grace, The Lord is with Thee; Blessed art thou among women, And blessed is the fruit of thy womb, Jesus. Holy Mary, Mother of God, Pray for us sinners, now and at the hour of our death. Amen
3. IN THANKSGIVING (Last 27 Days):
Hail, Queen of the Most Holy Rosary, my Mother Mary, hail! At thy feet I gratefully kneel to offer thee a Crown of Roses blood red roses to remind thee of the passion of thy divine Son, with Whom thou didst so fully partake of its bitterness each rose recalling to thee a holy mystery; each ten bound together with my petition for a particular grace. O Holy Queen, dispenser of God’s graces, and Mother of all who invoke thee! Thou canst not look upon my gift and fail to see its binding. As thou receivest my gift, so wilt thou receive my thanksgiving; from thy bounty thou hast given me the favor I so earnestly and trustingly sought. I despaired not of what I asked of thee, and thou hast truly shown thyself my Mother.
4. Say:
- The Apostles’ Creed,
- Our Father,
- 3 Hail Mary’s,
- Glory Be.
5. The Agony in the Garden – Our Father, 10 Hail Mary’s, Glory Be.
Concluding Prayer: I bind these blood red roses with a petition for the virtue of resignation to the will of God and humbly lay this bouquet at thy feet.
The Scourging at the Pillar – Our Father, 10 Hail Mary’s, Glory Be.
Concluding Prayer: I bind these blood red roses with a petition for the virtue of mortification and humbly lay this bouquet at thy feet.
The Crowning with Thorns – Our Father, 10 Hail Mary’s, Glory Be.
Concluding Prayer: I bind these blood red roses with a petition for the virtue of humility and humbly lay this bouquet at thy feet.
The Carrying of the Cross – Our Father, 10 Hail Mary’s, Glory Be.
Concluding Prayer: I bind these blood red roses with a petition for the virtue of patience in adversity and humbly lay this bouquet at thy feet.
The Crucifixion – Our Father, 10 Hail Mary’s, Glory Be.
Concluding Prayer: I bind these blood red roses with a petition for the virtue of love of our enemies and humbly lay this bouquet at thy feet.
6. Say: The Hail Holy Queen.
Hail Holy Queen, Mother of mercy, hail Our life, our sweetness, and our hope. To thee do we cry, poor banished children of Eve. To thee do we send up our sighs, mourning and weeping in this valley of tears. Turn then, most gracious advocate, thine eyes of mercy towards us. And after this, our exile, show unto us the blessed fruit of thy womb, Jesus. O clement O loving O sweet Virgin Mary.
V/. Pray for us oh holy mother of God.
R/. That we may be made worthy of the promises of Christ.
7. Let us pray: O God whose only begotten son by his life death………..
8. Litany of the Blessed Virgin Mary (optional)
9. In thanksgiving (last 27 days) Let Us Pray: Sweet Mother Mary, I offer thee this Spiritual Communion to bind my bouquets in a wreath to place upon thy brow in thanksgiving for (specify request) which thou in thy love hast obtained for me. Hail, Mary, etc.
HAIL MARY;
Hail Mary, full of grace, The Lord is with Thee; Blessed art thou among women, And blessed is the fruit of thy womb, Jesus. Holy Mary, Mother of God, Pray for us sinners, now and at the hour of our death. Amen
10. In the name of the Father, and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit amen.
– Promise of Our Lady of the Most Holy Rosary
Whoever desires to obtain favors from Me should make three novenas of the prayers of the Rosary, and three novenas in thanksgiving.”
- Fr Richard Heilman February 7, 2016
SATURDAY October 21, 2023
Weekday (28)
Vestment: Green/ Green
Today’s Rosary: The Joyful Mystery
B.V.M.
-FIRST READING-
A reading from the Letter of Saint Paul to the Romans (Romans 4:.13.16- 18)
“In hope he believed against hope.”
Brethren: The promise to Abraham and his descendants, that they should inherit the world, did not come through the law but through the righteousness of faith. That is why it depends on faith, in order that the promise may rest on grace and be guaranteed to all his descendants — not only to the adherents of the law but also to those who share the faith of Abraham, for he is the father of us all, as it is written, “I have made you the father of many nations” — in the presence of the God in whom he believed, who gives life to the dead and calls into existence the things that do not exist. In hope he believed against hope, that he should become the father of many nations; as he had been told, “So shall your descendants be.”
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Psalm105:6-7.8-9.42-43 (R.8a)
R/. The Lord remembers his covenant forever.
Or: Alleluia.
O children of Abraham, his servant,
O descendants of the Jacob he chose,
he, the Lord, is our God;
his judgements are in all the earth. R/.
He remembers his covenant forever:
The promise he ordained for a thousand generations,
the covenant he made with Abraham,
the oath he swore to Isaac. R/.
For he remembered his holy word,
spoken to Abraham his servant.
So he brought out his people with joy,
his chosen ones with shouts of rejoicing. R/.
ALLELUIA John 15:26b.27a
Alleluia. The Spirit of truth will bear witness to me, says the Lord; and you also are witnesses. Alleluia.
-GOSPEL-
A reading from the holy Gospel according to Luke (Luke12:8-12)
At that time: Jesus said to his disciples, “Every one who acknowledges me before men, the Son of man also will acknowledge before the angels of God; but he who denies me before men will be denied before the angels of God. And every one who speaks a word against the Son of man will be forgiven; but he who blasphemes against the Holy Spirit will not be forgiven. And when they bring you before the synagogues and the rulers and the authorities, do not be anxious about how or what you are to answer or what you are to say; for the Holy Spirit will teach you in that very hour what you ought to say.”
The Gospel of the Lord.
Today’s Reflection
The faith of Abraham justifies him. God justifies whoever he wishes to. Sometimes, we think that we have merited the favours that come to us, especially the grace of faith. Faith in God is a gift to us. No amount of work we do can justify us before God. Our justification comes through our beliefs. To believe what God will do for us; to believe his manifestation will reach out; to believe that what he has in store for us will come to fulfillment even before they come to be, is faith in action. It is only through faith that we can see God. Faith accepts and believes what is still to happen.
Personal Devotional
Reflection on St. Joseph: 21ST DAY
When Jesus lived in this world in the house of St Joseph, could a sinner who desired to obtain forgiveness from our Lord have found a more efficacious means of obtaining pardon than through St. Joseph? If, then, we desire to receive the forgiveness of our sins, let us have recourse to St. Joseph who, now that he is in heaven, is more loved by Jesus Christ than he was loved by him on earth.
Let Us Pray
St. Joseph, obtain from Jesus the pardon of my sins.
THE MIRACULOUS 54-DAY ROSARY NOVENA, 8TH SEPT. TO 31ST OCT. 2023.
LAST 27 DAYS IN PETITION
GLORIOUS MYSTERIES
DAY 44 THANKSGIVING: Heavenly Father on this Miraculous 54-Day Rosary Novena, we bow our hearts to you and pray, we give you thanks for all you’ve done especially for the gift of Your son Jesus and his Mother Mary. With thankful hearts, we praise You our God who like a loving parent never denies his children good things. Thank you for hearing all our petitions and granting them. May your name be praised for evermore. Amen.
1. + In the name of the Father, and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit Sign of the cross.
2. Hail Mary.
3. Prayer before the recitation of the rosary
Hail, Queen of the Most Holy Rosary, my Mother Mary, hail! At thy feet I gratefully kneel to offer thee a Crown of Roses full blown white roses, tinged with the red of the passion, to remind thee of thy glories, fruits of the sufferings of thy Son and thee each rose recalling to thee a holy mystery; each ten bound together with my petition for a particular grace. O Holy Queen, dispenser of God s graces, and Mother of all who invoke thee! thou canst not look upon my gift and fail to see its binding. As thou receivest my gift, so wilt thou receive my thanksgiving; from thy bounty thou bast given me the favor I so earnestly and trustingly sought. I despaired not of what I asked of thee, and thou hast truly shown thyself my Mother.
4. Say: The Apostles’ Creed, Our Father, 3 Hail Marys, Glory Be.
The Resurrection – Our Father, 10 Hail Marys, Glory Be.
Concluding Prayer: I bind these full-blown roses with a petition for the virtue of faith and humbly lay this bouquet at thy feet.
The Ascension – Our Father, 10 Hail Marys, Glory Be.
Concluding Prayer: I bind these full-blown roses with a petition for the virtue of hope and humbly lay this bouquet at thy feet.
The Descent of the Holy Spirit – Our Father, 10 Hail Marys, Glory Be.
Concluding Prayer: I bind these full-blown roses with a petition for the virtue of charity and humbly lay this bouquet at thy feet.
The Assumption of Mary – Our Father, 10 Hail Marys, Glory Be.
Concluding Prayer: I bind these full-blown roses with a petition for the virtue of union with Christ and humbly lay this bouquet at thy feet.
The Coronation of the Blessed Mother – Our Father, 10 Hail Marys, Glory Be.
Concluding Prayer: I bind these full-blown roses with a petition for the virtue of union with thee and humbly lay this bouquet at thy feet.
6. Say: The Hail Holy Queen.
7. Let us pray: O God whose only begotten son by his life death………..
8. Litany of the Blessed Virgin Mary
9. Sweet Mother Mary, I offer thee this Spiritual Communion to bind my bouquets in a wreath to place upon thy brow in thanksgiving for (specify request) which thou in thy love hast obtained for me. Hail, Mary, etc.
10. + In the name of the Father, and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit amen.
Sunday October 22, 2023
29TH SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME
Vestment: WHITE
Today’s Rosary: The Glorious Mystery
MISSION SUNDAY
The Mass for the Evangelisation of People may be said as indicated in the Roman Missal. Special Prayer and Collection for the Missionary works of P.M.S (Roman Missal chapter2)
Theme of the Sunday: The Christian and the State. A Christian has the same rights as anybody else and does not claim exemption or privilege. Like everybody, we must also pay taxes. The first reading throws. Light on the relationship between faith and politics. God guides history so that everything may lead to the happiness of his people. The second reading is connected to this theme: it shows how in a concrete way the Christians of Thessalonica lived out their religion.
Entrance Antiphon Cf. Ps17:6.8
To you I call; for you will surely heed me, O God; turn your ear to me; hear my words. Guard me as the apple of your eye; hide me in the shadow of your wings.
Collect
Almighty ever-living God, grant that we may always conform our will to yours and serve your majesty in sincerity of heart. Through our Lord. .
-FIRST READING-
I have grasped the hand of Cyrus to subdue nations before him
A reading from the Book of Isaiah (Isaiah 45:1.4-6)
Thus says the Lord to his anointed, to Cyrus, whose right hand I have grasped, to subdue nations before him and uncover the loins of kings, to open doors before him that gates may not be closed: “For the sake of my servant Jacob, and Israel my chosen, I call you by your name, I surname you, though you do not know me. I am the Lord, and there is no other, besides me there is no God; I clothe you, though you do not know me, that men may know, from the rising of the sun and from the west, that there is none besides me; I am the Lord, and there is no other.
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Ps 96: 1 and 3.4-5.7-8.9- 10a (R. 7b)
R/. Give the Lord glory and power.
O sing a new song to the Lord;
sing to the Lord, all the earth.
Tell among the nations his glory,
And his wonders among all the peoples. R.
For the Lord is great and highly to be praised,
To be feared above all gods.
For the gods of the nations are naught.
It was the Lord who made the heavens. R.
Give the LORD, you families of peoples,
Give the LORD glory and power;
Give the LORD the glory of his name.
Bring an offering and enter his courts. R.
Worship the LORD in holy splendor.
O tremble before him, all the earth.
Say to the nations, “The LORD is king.
He will judge the peoples in fairness. R.
-SECOND READING-
Remember your faith, love, and hope.
The beginning of the first Letter of Saint Paul to the Thessalonians (1 Thessalonians 1:1-5b)
Paul, Silvanus, and Timothy, to the church of the Thessalonians in God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ: Grace to you and peace. We give thanks to God always for you all, constantly mentioning you in our prayers, remembering before our God and Father our work of faith and labour of love and steadfastness of hope in our Lord Jesus Christ. For we know, brethren beloved by God, that he has chosen you; for our Gospel came to you not only in word, but also in power and in the Holy Spirit and with full conviction.
The word of the Lord.
ALLELUIA Philippians 2:15d-16a
Alleluia. You will shine as lights in the world, holding fast the word of life. Alleluia.
-GOSPEL-
Render to Caesar the things that are Caesar’s and to God the things that are God's
A reading from the Holy Gospel according to Matthew (Matthew 22:15-21)
At that time: The Pharisees went and took counsel how to entangle Jesus in his talk. And they sent their disciples to him, along with the Herodians, saying, “Teacher, we know that you are true, and teach the way of God truthfully, and care for no man; for you do not regard the position of men. Tell us, then, what you think. Is it Lawful to pay taxes to Caesar, or not?” But Jesus, aware of their malice, said, “Why put me to the test, you hypocrites? Show me the money for the tax.” And they brought him a coin. And Jesus said to them, “Whose likeness and inscription is this?” They said, “Caesar’s.” Then he said to them, “Render therefore to Caesar the things that are Caesar’s, and to God the things that are God’s.
The Gospel of the Lord.
PRAYER OF THE FAITHFUL
Give the Lord glory and power.
PRIEST: God has made us for himself, and our response in love to him gives meaning to our Christian lives. Let us ask him to open his graces To all the world, So that everyone may know And serve him.
READERS:
For the Church, pause may she always give praise to her Lord, and be a sign of contradiction to those who live by the standards of a materialistic world. pause Lord, hear us; as we praise and glorify you we pray Oh Lord.
For the leaders of the government, pause may they never claim for themselves the honour and obedience due to God alone, but, by their laws and attitudes, may they acknowledge the existence of a higher order. pause Lord, hear us; as we praise and glorify you we pray Oh Lord.
For those caught up in materialism, pause may they look again at their values in life, and realize that man does not live by bread alone, but by putting God first in his life. pause Lord, hear us; as we praise and glorify you we pray Oh Lord.
For a greater spirituality in our community, pause may we respond generously to God’s love, and in everything we say and do strive to give the Lord his due glory and power. pause Lord, hear us; as we praise and glorify you we pray Oh Lord.
PRIEST: Let us make our private intentions in silence to God our Father, who hears our every prayer.
Father, you are our beginning and end. May our every prayer give you praise and glory. Through Christ our Lord. Amen.
Today’s Reflection
“Give to Caesar what belongs to Caesar and to God what belongs to God”. As the Jewish officials begin to muster up evidence for the condemnation of Jesus, there is no better response given to them than what Jesus gave. But the response continues to reverberate in our hearts. It calls us to a sober reflection and self-examination; those moments where we spend the time meant for God to do other personal runs, when we refuse to contribute to parish development because of some other commitment. There is time for everything. We cannot really rob God but we do rob ourselves of some spiritual benefice when we shortchange our resources meant for worship into personal comfort. As it is said, “You cannot rob Peter to pay Paul”. What is the Caesar in your life? That bad habit, that addiction, that laziness – it is time to give yourself back to God because it belongs to God. Whatever we do in life is only a participation in the plans of God. We are vessels of God and we must return to him whom we truly belong to. Hence, we should never be lost in the crowd, advancing a ‘Pull him Down Syndrome’ forgetting that we are nothing but vessels in the hands of the almighty and should return the same to God without prejudice to other responsibilities.
Personal Devotional (October Devotion)
Reflection on St. Joseph: 22nd DAY
When Jesus lived in this world in the house of St Joseph, could a sinner who desired to obtain forgiveness from our Lord have found a more efficacious means of obtaining pardon than through St. Joseph? If, then, we desire to receive the forgiveness of our sins, let us have recourse to St. Joseph who, now that he is in heaven, is more loved by Jesus Christ than he was loved by him on earth.
Let Us Pray
St. Joseph, obtain from Jesus the pardon of my sins.
THE HOLY ROSARY
When the rosary is recited in a group, there will be a leader (L) and response (R).
If you do not have Rosary beads, it is perfectly okay to count with your fingers, but counting beads frees your mind to help you meditate.
On the first bead say Our Father; on the next three beads recites the Hail Mary, after the third Hail Mary, recite the Glory be, and the Fatima prayers. Before the 1st of the 10 Hail Mary beads, announce the relevant mystery for the day and say Our Father. Say the Glory Be and the Fatima prayers after each decade subsequently.
BEGIN WITH THE SIGN OF THE CROSS
+In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.
L: Come Holy Spirit fill the hearts of the faithful,
R: And enkindle in them the fire of thy love.
L: Send forth thy Spirit and they shall be recreated,
R: And thou shalt renew the face of the earth,
Let us pray:
ALL: O God, who by the light of the Holy Spirit, did instruct the hearts of the faithful, grant that in the same spirit we may be truly wise and ever rejoice in his consolation, through Christ our Lord. Amen.
L: Thou O Lord shall open my lips,
R: And my tongue shall proclaim thy praise,
L: Incline unto my aid O God,
R: O Lord make haste to help me
L: Glory be to the Father, and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit,
R: As it was in the beginning is now and ever shall be, world without end. Amen
THE CREED
L: I believe in God, the Father Almighty, creator of Heaven and earth; and in Jesus Christ, His only Son, Our Lord, Who was conceived by the Holy Spirit, born of the Virgin Mary, suffered under Pontius Pilate, was crucified; died, and was buried. He descended into hell. On the third day, He rose again from the dead, He ascended into Heaven, and is seated at the right hand of God, the Father Almighty; from thence He shall come to judge the living and the dead.
R: I believe in the Holy Spirit, the holy Catholic Church, the communion of saints, the forgiveness of sins, the resurrection of the body, and life everlasting. Amen.
OUR FATHER
L: Our Father, Who art in heaven, hallowed be Thy name; Thy kingdom come; Thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven.
R: Give us this day our daily bread; and forgive us our trespasses as we forgive those who trespass against us; and lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. Amen.
HAIL MARY
L: Hail Mary, full of grace. The Lord is with thee. Blessed art thou amongst women, and blessed is the fruit of thy womb, Jesus.
R: Holy Mary, Mother of God, pray for us sinners, now and at the hour of our death, Amen.
GLORY BE
L: Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit,
R: as it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, world without end. Amen.
FATIMA PRAYER:
ALL: O my Jesus, forgive us of our sins. Save us from the fire of hell. Lead all souls into heaven, especially those in most need of thy mercy.
L: Jesus have mercy on us,
R: Blessed virgin Mary help us,
L: May the souls of all the faithful departed
R: Through the mercy of God rest in peace amen,
-------------------------------------------------
THE GLORIOUS MYSTERIES (Wednesdays and Sundays)
1. The Resurrection
Jesus rises from the dead. Matthew 28:1-10, Luke 24:1-11, John 20:1-10, Romans 6:1-14
2. The Ascension
Jesus leaves the Apostles and bodily "ascends" to heaven. Luke 24:44-53, Acts 1:1-11, Matthew 28:16-20
3. The Descent of the Holy Spirit
The Apostles receive the Holy Spirit in tongues of fire in the upper room with Mary. Acts 2:1-11, John 14:15-21
4. The Assumption
Mary is taken bodily into heaven by God at the end of her life here on earth. John 11:17-27, 1 Corinthians 15:12-57, Revelation 21:1-6
5. The Coronation
Mary is crowned Queen of Heaven and Earth. Revelation 7:1-4,9-12, 21:1-6 Matthew 5:1-12
HAIL HOLY QUEEN
ALL: Hail, holy Queen, Mother of mercy, hail our life, our sweetness and our hope. To thee do we cry, poor banished children of Eve: to thee do we send up our sighs, mourning and weeping in this valley of tears. Turn then, most gracious Advocate, thine eyes of mercy toward us, and after this our exile, show unto us the blessed fruit of thy womb, Jesus. O clement, O loving, O sweet Virgin Mary!
L: Pray for us O Holy Mother of God,
R: That we may be made worthy of the promises of Christ.
L: Let us pray.
All: O God, whose only begotten Son by his life, death, and resurrection has purchased for us the rewards of eternal salvation; grant we beseech thee, that meditating upon these mysteries in the most Holy Rosary of the Blessed Virgin Mary, we may imitate what they contain and obtain what they promise through the same Christ our Lord. Amen.
L: May the divine assistance always remain with us,
R: May the souls of the faithful departed through the mercy of God rest in peace amen.
L: Most Sacred heart of Jesus
R: Have mercy on us
L: Immaculate Heart of Mary
R: Pray for Us
L: Saint Joseph
R: Pray for Us
L: St. John the Evangelist
R: Pray for Us
L: St. Louis Maria de Monfort
R: Pray for Us
LITANY OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN MARY
L. Lord, have mercy.
R. Lord have mercy.
L. Christ have mercy.
R. Christ have mercy
L. Christ hear us.
R. Christ graciously hear us.
God the Father of heaven,
have mercy on us.
God the Son, Redeemer of the world,
have mercy on us.
God the Holy Spirit,
have mercy on us.
Holy Trinity, one God,
have mercy on us.
Holy Mary,
pray for us.
Holy Mother of God,
pray for us.
Holy Virgin of Virgins,
Mother of Christ,
Mother of the Church
MOTHER of Mercy
Mother of divine grace,
MOTHER of Hope
Mother most pure,
Mother most chaste,
Mother inviolate,
Mother undefiled,
Mother most amiable,
Mother most admirable,
Mother of good Counsel,
Mother of our Creator,
Mother of our Savior,
Virgin most prudent,
Virgin most venerable,
Virgin most renowned,
Virgin most powerful,
Virgin most merciful,
Virgin most faithful,
Mirror of justice,
Seat of wisdom,
Cause of our joy,
Spiritual vessel,
Vessel of honor,
Singular vessel of devotion,
Mystical rose,
Tower of David,
Tower of ivory,
House of gold,
Ark of the covenant,
Gate of heaven,
Morning star,
Health of the sick,
Refuge of sinners,
COMFORT of Migrants
Comforter of the afflicted,
Help of Christians,
Queen of Angels,
Queen of Patriarchs,
Queen of Prophets,
Queen of Apostles,
Queen of Martyrs,
Queen of Confessors,
Queen of Virgins,
Queen of all Saints,
Queen conceived without original sin,
Queen assumed into heaven,
Queen of the most holy Rosary,
Queen of families,
Queen of peace,
Lamb of God, who takes away the sins of the world,
Spare us o Lord
Lamb of God, who takes away the sins of the world,
Graciously hear us o Lord
Lamb of God, who takes away the sins of the world,
Have mercy on us
Pray for us, O holy mother of God,
That we may be made worthy of the promises of Christ
Let Us Pray:
Grant we beseech thee, O Lord, that we your servants may enjoy perpetual health of mind and body and by the glorious intercession of the blessed Mary ever Virgin, may be delivered from present sorrows and attain to eternal joy, through Christ our Lord. Amen.
THE MEMORARE
Remember, o most gracious virgin Mary, that never was it known that anyone who fled to thy protection, implore thy help or sought thy intercession was left unaided. Inspired by this confidence, I fly unto thee, o virgin of virgins, my mother, to thee I come, before thee I stand sinful and sorrowful. O mother of the word incarnate, despise not my petition but in thy mercy hear and answer me. Amen.
PRAYER TO ST. MICHAEL
Holy Michael, the Archangel defend us in the day of battle, be our safeguard against the wickedness and snares of the devil. May God rebuke him, we humbly pray and do thou, o prince of the heavenly host, by the power of God, cast into hell, satan and all wicked spirit who wander through the world for the ruin of souls. Amen .
MONDAY October 23, 2023
Weekday (29)
Vestment: Green
Today’s Rosary: The Joyful Mystery
-FIRST READING-
A reading from the Letter of Saint Paul to the Romans (Romans 4:20-25)
It was written also for us, and it will be reckoned to us who believe in him.
Brethren: No distrust made Abraham waver concerning the promise of God, but he grew strong in his faith as he gave glory to God, fully convinced that God was able to do what he had promised. That is why his faith was “reckoned to him as righteousness.” But the words, “it was reckoned to him,” were written not for his sake alone, but for ours also. It will be reckoned to us who believe in him that raised from the dead Jesus our Lord, who was put to death for our trespasses and raised for our justification.
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Luke 1:69-70.71-72.73-75 (R.68)
R/. Blessed be the Lord God of Israel, For he has visited his people.
He has raised up a horn of salvation for us
In the house of his servant David,
As he spoke by the mouth of his holy prophets
from of old. R/.
That we should be saved from our enemies,
and from the hand of all who hate us;
to perform the mercy promised to our fathers,
and to remember his holy covenant. R/.
The oath which he swore to our father Abraham, to grant us
that we, being delivered from the hand of our enemies,
might serve him without fear,
in holiness and righteousness before him
all the days of our life. R/.
ALLELUIA Matthew 5:3
Alleluia. Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Alleluia.
-GOSPEL-
A reading from the holy Gospel according to Luke (Luke 12:13-21)
“The things you have prepared, whose will they be?”
At that time: One of the multitude said to Jesus, “Teacher, bid my Brother divide the inheritance with me.” But he said to him, “Man, who made me a judge or divider over you?” And he said to them, “Take heed, and beware of all covetousness; for a man’s life does not consist in the abundance of his possessions. ”And he told them a parable, saying, “The land of a rich man brought forth plentifully; and he thought to himself, ‘What shall I do, for I have nowhere to store my crops?’ And he said, ‘I will do this: I will pull down my barns, and build larger ones; and there I will store all my grain and my goods. And I will say to my soul, Soul, you have ample goods laid up for many years; take your ease, eat, drink, be merry.’ “But God said to him, ‘Fool! This night your soul is required of you; and the things you have prepared, whose will they be?' “So is he who lays up treasure for himself, and is not rich toward God.”
The Gospel of the Lord.
Today’s Reflection
Abraham perseveres in faith amidst delay in fulfillment of God’s promise to him of a son, which is seen by God as righteousness. His faith makes him live at rights with God. Abraham pays attention to and focuses on God’s promise. He demonstrates a determined faith in God. He is not distracted but keeps going with God. He even erects altars and gives thanks as he encounters God. Faith comes alive through thanksgiving. Thanksgiving acknowledges that God is the chief actor in one’s life. Through faith professed over and over again, we gain more favours. When we keep believing in God, he keeps blessing us.
Personal Devotional
Reflection in St. Joseph: TWENTY-THIRD DAY
And I came to pass while they were there, that the days for her to be delivered were fulfilled. And she brought forth her firstborn son, and wrapped him in swaddling clothes, and laid him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn” (Luke 2:6-7). How great must have been the sorrow of St. Joseph when he could find no shelter for Mary on the night of the birth of the Divine Word, and was obliged to bring her to a stable! How his heart must have been pierced with anguish to see his holy spouse, who was pregnant, and near the time of childbirth, trembling with cold in that damp cave, which was open on every side. Dear St. Joseph, through the pain which you felt in seeing the Divine Word born in a stable, so poor, without fire, without clothes,, and in hearing the cries caused by the cold which afflicted him, I pray thee to obtain for me a true sorrow for my sins by which I have drawn tears from Jesus.
Let Us Pray
St. Joseph, penetrate my heart with contrition and obtain for me the grace never to sin again.
Blessing for the New Week
Jesus is the greatest. He is greater than Jonah and Solomon and any other created thing in existence. When he is with us we shall have no fear of anyone or any force. Simply put your trust in Him and you are secured.
Therefore, in his name I bless this new week and pray that it shall go well for us. May his glory shield and protect us from every harm and may his mercy surround us always.
Go out today with faith, know that God is by your side and with his help you will succeed in all your endeavours.
Be kind to those who come around you. Put in your best in the work and study you do. Avoid anything that will take away your joy and make sure you spread joy and light wherever you may be.
I declare divine breakthrough for you in all ramifications of your life in Jesus name. Amen. Because Jesus is with me I will surely succeed.
Meditation: Luke 11:29-32
THE MIRACULOUS 54-DAY ROSARY NOVENA, 8TH SEPT. TO 31ST OCT. 2023.
LAST 27 DAYS IN PETITION
SORROWFUL MYSTERIES
Day 46 Thanksgiving: Heavenly Father on this Miraculous 54-Day Rosary Novena, we bow our hearts to you and pray, we give you thanks for all you’ve done especially for the gift of Your son Jesus and his Mother Mary. With thankful hearts, we praise You our God who like a loving parent never denies his children good things. Thank you for hearing all our petitions and granting them. May your name be praised for evermore. Amen.
1. + In the name of the Father, and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit Sign of the cross.
2. Hail Mary.
3. Prayer before the recitation of the rosary
Hail, Queen of the Most Holy Rosary, my Mother Mary, hail! At thy feet I gratefully kneel to offer thee a Crown of Roses snow white buds to remind thee of thy joys each bud recalling to thee a holy mystery; each ten bound together with my petition for a particular grace. O Holy Queen, Dispenser of God’s graces and Mother of all who invoke thee! thou canst not look upon my gift and fail to see its binding. As thou receivest my gift, so wilt thou receive my thanksgiving; from thy bounty thou hast given me the favor I so earnestly and trustingly sought. I despaired not of what I asked of thee, and thou hast truly shown thyself my Mother.
4. Say: The Apostles’ Creed, Our Father, 3 Hail Marys, Glory Be.
5. The Agony in the Garden – Our Father, 10 Hail Marys, Glory Be.
Concluding Prayer: I bind these blood red roses with a petition for the virtue of resignation to the will of God and humbly lay this bouquet at thy feet.
The Scourging at the Pillar – Our Father, 10 Hail Marys, Glory Be.
Concluding Prayer: I bind these blood red roses with a petition for the virtue of mortification and humbly lay this bouquet at thy feet.
The Crowning with Thorns – Our Father, 10 Hail Marys, Glory Be.
Concluding Prayer: I bind these blood red roses with a petition for the virtue of humility and humbly lay this bouquet at thy feet.
The Carrying of the Cross – Our Father, 10 Hail Marys, Glory Be.
Concluding Prayer: I bind these blood red roses with a petition for the virtue of patience in adversity and humbly lay this bouquet at thy feet.
The Crucifixion – Our Father, 10 Hail Marys, Glory Be.
Concluding Prayer: I bind these blood red roses with a petition for the virtue of love of our enemies and humbly lay this bouquet at thy feet.
6. Say: The Hail Holy Queen.
7. Let us pray: O God whose only begotten son by his life death………..
8. Litany of the Blessed Virgin Mary
9. Sweet Mother Mary, I offer thee this spiritual communion to bind my bouquets in a wreath to place upon thy brow. O my Mother! Look with favor upon my gift, and in thy love obtain for me (specify request). Hail Mary …
10. + In the name of the Father, and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit amen.
TUESDAY October 24, 2023
Weekday (29)
Vestment: White
Today’s Rosary: The Sorrowful Mystery
-FIRST READING-
A reading from the Letter of Saint Paul to the Romans (Romans 5:12.15b.17-19.20b-21)
“If, because of one man’s trespass, death reigned, much more will those who receive grace reign in life.”
Brethren: As sin came into the world through one man and death through sin, and so death spread to all men because all men sinned. For if many died through one man’s trespass, much more have the grace of God and the free gift in the grace of that one man Jesus Christ abounded for many. If, because of one man’s trespass, death reigned through that one man, much more will those who receive the abundance of grace and the free gift of righteousness reign in life through the one man Jesus Christ. Then as one man’s trespass led to condemnation for all men, so one man’s act of righteousness leads to acquittal and life for all men. For as by one man’s disobedience many were made sinners, so by one man’s obedience many will be made righteous. Where sin increased, grace abounded all the more, so that, as sin reigned in death, grace also might reign through righteousness to eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Psalm40:7-8a.8b-9.10.17 (R. see8a.9a)
R/. See, I have come, Lord, to do your will.
You delight not in sacrifice and offerings,
but in an open ear.
You do not ask for holocaust and victim.
Then I said, “See, I have come.” R/.
In the scroll of the book it stands written of me:
“I delight to do your will, O my God;
Your instruction lies deep within me.” R/.
R/. See, I have come, Lord, to do your will.
Your justice I have proclaimed in the great assembly.
My lips I have not sealed; you know it, O Lord. R/.
O let there be rejoicing and gladness
for all who seek you.
Let them ever say, “The Lord is great,”
Who long for your salvation. R/.
ALLELUIA Luke21:36
Alleluia. Watch at all times, praying that you may be able to stand before the Son of man. Alleluia.
-GOSPEL-
A reading from the holy Gospel according to Luke (Luke12:35-38)
“Blessed are those servants whom. The master finds awake when he comes.”
At that time: Jesus said to his disciples, “Let your loins be girded and your lamps burning, and be like men who are waiting for their master to come home from the marriage feast, so that they may open to him at once when he comes and knocks. Blessed are those servants whom the master finds wake when he comes; truly, I say to you, he will put on his apron and have them sit at table, and he will come and serve them. If he comes in the second watch, or in the third, and finds them so, blessed are those servants!”
The Gospel of the Lord.
Today’s Reflection
To stay awake means to be alert, to watch, and be very conscious of one’s environment and the events happening around one. Staying awake is the duty of every Christian. We stay awake through a conscious effort to love God and our neighbour as ourselves and keep his commandments. When a Christian is awake, sin will find it difficult to reign in his life. A Christian awake is a battle-ready Christian. Soldier who is battle ready cannot be taken unawares by any emergency. A Christian who is awake is alert to the things that weigh the spirit down through sin and is ever ready to work on them; he does everything in his power to honour God and keep his commandments. A Christian awake bears the fruits expected of him in all seasons. These fruits are manifested in good works through good human relationships. A Christian awake does not swim in sin. A Christian awake is truthful, honest, committed, and faithful. A Christian awake does not glory in the misfortune of others but rather, feels pity for them and, if possible, does something to help them.
Personal Devotional
Reflection on St. Joseph: TWENTY-FOURTH DAY
And she brought forth her firstborn son, and wrapped him in swaddling clothes, and laid him in a manger” (Luke 2:7).
How great must have been the Joy of St. Joseph when he heard Mary calling him and saying “Joseph, come, and adore our infant God, who is just born in this cave. Behold how beautiful he is. Look at the King of the world in this manger, on this straw. See how he, who makes the seraphs burn with love, trembles with cold. Behold how he who is the joy of paradise weeps”!
Dear St. Joseph, through the joy which you received at the first sight of the infant Jesus in the crib, so beautiful and lovely that your heart began from that moment to beat with love for him alone, obtain for me also the grace to love Jesus with an ardent love on earth so that I may one day go to enjoy him in heaven.
Let Us Pray
St. Joseph, share with me a little of the burning love that thou didst bear to Jesus.
THE MIRACULOUS 54-DAY ROSARY NOVENA, 8TH SEPT. TO 31ST OCT. 2023.
LAST 27 DAYS IN PETITION
GLORIOUS MYSTERIES
DAY 47 THANKSGIVING: Heavenly Father on this Miraculous 54-Day Rosary Novena, we bow our hearts to you and pray, we give you thanks for all you’ve done especially for the gift of Your son Jesus and his Mother Mary. With thankful hearts, we praise You our God who like a loving parent never denies his children good things. Thank you for hearing all our petitions and granting them. May your name be praised for evermore. Amen.
1. + In the name of the Father, and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit Sign of the cross.
2. Hail Mary.
3. Prayer before the recitation of the rosary
Hail, Queen of the Most Holy Rosary, my Mother Mary, hail! At thy feet I gratefully kneel to offer thee a Crown of Roses full blown white roses, tinged with the red of the passion, to remind thee of thy glories, fruits of the sufferings of thy Son and thee each rose recalling to thee a holy mystery; each ten bound together with my petition for a particular grace. O Holy Queen, dispenser of God s graces, and Mother of all who invoke thee! thou canst not look upon my gift and fail to see its binding. As thou receivest my gift, so wilt thou receive my thanksgiving; from thy bounty thou bast given me the favor I so earnestly and trustingly sought. I despaired not of what I asked of thee, and thou hast truly shown thyself my Mother.
4. Say: The Apostles’ Creed, Our Father, 3 Hail Marys, Glory Be.
The Resurrection – Our Father, 10 Hail Marys, Glory Be.
Concluding Prayer: I bind these full-blown roses with a petition for the virtue of faith and humbly lay this bouquet at thy feet.
The Ascension – Our Father, 10 Hail Marys, Glory Be.
Concluding Prayer: I bind these full-blown roses with a petition for the virtue of hope and humbly lay this bouquet at thy feet.
The Descent of the Holy Spirit – Our Father, 10 Hail Marys, Glory Be.
Concluding Prayer: I bind these full-blown roses with a petition for the virtue of charity and humbly lay this bouquet at thy feet.
The Assumption of Mary – Our Father, 10 Hail Marys, Glory Be.
Concluding Prayer: I bind these full-blown roses with a petition for the virtue of union with Christ and humbly lay this bouquet at thy feet.
The Coronation of the Blessed Mother – Our Father, 10 Hail Marys, Glory Be.
Concluding Prayer: I bind these full-blown roses with a petition for the virtue of union with thee and humbly lay this bouquet at thy feet.
6. Say: The Hail Holy Queen.
7. Let us pray: O God whose only begotten son by his life death………..
8. Litany of the Blessed Virgin Mary
9. Sweet Mother Mary, I offer thee this Spiritual Communion to bind my bouquets in a wreath to place upon thy brow in thanksgiving for (specify request) which thou in thy love hast obtained for me. Hail, Mary, etc.
10. + In the name of the Father, and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit amen.
WEDNESDAY October 25, 2023
Weekday (29)
Vestment: Green
Today’s Rosary: The Glorious Mystery
-FIRST READING-
A reading from the Letter of Saint Paul to the Romans (Romans 6:12-18)
“Yield yourselves to God as men who have been brought from death to life.”
Brethren: let not sin reign in your mortal bodies, to make you obey their passions. Do not yield your members to sin as instruments of wickedness, but yield yourselves to God as men who have been brought from death to life, and your members to God as instruments of righteousness. For sin will have no dominion over you, since you are not under law but under grace. What then? Are we to sin because we are not under law but under grace? By no means! Do you not know that if you yield yourselves to any one as obedient slaves, you are slaves of the one whom you obey, either of sin, which leads to death, or of obedience, which leads to righteousness? But thanks be to God, that you who were once slaves of sin have become obedient from the heart to the standard of teaching to which you were committed, and, having been set free from sin, have become slaves of righteousness.
The word of the Lord
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Psalm124:1-3.4-6.7-8 (R. 8a)
R/. Our help is in the name of the Lord.
“If the LORD had not been on our side,”
let Israel say
“If the LORD had not been on our side
When men rose against us,
Then would they have swallowed us alive
When their anger was kindled.” R/.
Then would the waters have engulfed us,
The torrent gone over us;
Over our head would have swept the raging waters.”
Blest be the LORD who did not give us
A prey to their teeth! R/.
Our life, like a bird, has escaped
From the snare of the fowler.
Indeed, the snare has been broken,
And we have escaped.
Our help is in the name of the LORD,
Who made heaven and earth. R/.
ALLELUIA Matthew 24:42a. 44
Alleluia. Watch, therefore, and be ready; the Son of man is coming at an hour you do not expect. Alleluia.
-GOSPEL-
A reading from the holy Gospel according to Luke (Luke 12:39-48)
“Every one to whom much is given, of him will much be required.”
At that time: Jesus said to his disciples, “know this, that if the householder had known at what hour the thief was coming, he would have been awake and would not have left his house to be broken into. You also must be ready; for the Son of man is coming at an hour you do not expect.” Peter said, “Lord, are you telling this parable for us or for all?” and the Lord said, “who then is the faithful and wise steward, whom his master will set over his household, to give them their portion of food at the proper time? Blessed is that servant whom his master when he comes will find so doing. Truly I tell you, he will set him over all his possession. But if that servant says to himself, ‘my master is delayed in coming,’ and begins to beat the menservants and the maidservants, and to eat and drink and get drunk, the master of that servant will come on a day when he does not expect him and at an hour he does not know, and will punish him, and put him with unfaithful. And that servant who knew his master’s will, but did not make ready or act according to his will, shall receive a severe beating. But he who did not know, and did what deserved a beating, shall receive a light beating. Everyone to whom much is given, of him will much be required; and of him to whom men commit much they will demand the more.”
The Gospel of the Lord.
Today’s Reflection
Getting used to sin, makes one slave of sin. A good conscience loathes sin. The conscience is the voice of God within us, teaching, encouraging and ordering us to choose good and avoid evil. But when a conscience is dead, evil is celebrated. The makes one not to be ashamed of one’s sins anymore. We need God’s grace that helps us to renounce sin and embrace his love’ the grace that helps us to detect and avoid sinful acts. It is grace that protects us against the evil manipulations of the devil.
Personal Devotional
Reflection on St. Joseph TWENTY-FIFTH DAY
Glory to God in the highest and on earth peace among men of good will” (Luke 2:14). Consider how great was the love and tenderness of St. Joseph when he beheld with his own eyes the Son of God become an infant; when he heard the angels singing around their newborn Lord, and saw the stable filled with light kneeling down and weeping with love and compassion, Joseph said: “I adore thee, yes I adore thee, my lord and my God. How great is my happiness to be the first, after Mary, to see thee born, and to know that in this world thou wishest to be called and reputed my Son! Allow me, then, also to call thee my Son, and to say: My God and my Son, to thee I consecrate my whole being. My life shall be no longer mine, but shall be thine without reserve”!
Let Us Pray
St. Joseph, grant that I may spend my life, like thee, in service of God.
THE MIRACULOUS 54-DAY ROSARY NOVENA, 8TH SEPT. TO 31ST OCT. 2023.
LAST 27 DAYS IN THANKSGIVING
THE JOYFUL MYSTERIES
Day 48 THANKSGIVING: Heavenly Father on this Miraculous 54-Day Rosary Novena, we bow our hearts to you and pray, we give you thanks for all you’ve done especially for the gift of Your son Jesus and his Mother Mary. With thankful hearts, we praise You our God who like a loving parent never denies his children good things. Thank you for hearing all our petitions and granting them. May your name be praised for evermore. Amen.
1. + In the name of the Father, and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit Sign of the cross.
2. Hail Mary.
3. Prayer before the recitation of the rosary
Hail, Queen of the Most Holy Rosary, my Mother Mary, hail! At thy feet I humbly kneel to offer thee a Crown of Roses, snow white buds to remind thee of thy joys, each bud recalling to thee a holy mystery, each 10 bound together with my petition for a particular grace. O Holy Queen, dispenser of God’s graces, and Mother of all who invoke thee, thou canst not look upon my gift and fail to see its binding. As thou receivest my gift, so wilt thou receive my petition; from thy bounty thou wilt give me the favor I so earnestly and trustingly seek. I despair of nothing that I ask of thee. Show thyself my Mother!
4. The Apostles’ Creed, Our Father, 3 Hail Marys, Glory Be.
The Annunciation – Our Father, 10 Hail Marys, Glory Be.
Concluding Prayer: I bind these snow-white buds with a petition for the virtue of humility and humbly lay this bouquet at thy feet.
The Visitation – Our Father, 10 Hail Marys, Glory Be.
Concluding Prayer: I bind these snow-white buds with a petition for the virtue of charity and humbly lay this bouquet at thy feet.
The Nativity – Our Father, 10 Hail Marys, Glory Be.
Concluding Prayer: I bind these snow-white buds with a petition for the virtue of detachment from the world and humbly lay this bouquet at thy feet.
The Presentation – Our Father, 10 Hail Marys, Glory Be.
Concluding Prayer: I bind these snow-white buds with a petition for the virtue of purity and humbly lay this bouquet at thy feet.
Finding the Child Jesus in the Temple – Our Father, 10 Hail Marys, Glory Be.
Concluding Prayer: I bind these snow-white buds with a petition for the virtue of obedience to the will of God and humbly lay this bouquet at thy feet.
6. The Hail Holy Queen.
7. Let us pray: O God whose only begotten son by his life death………..
8. Litany of the Blessed Virgin Mary
9. Sweet Mother Mary, I offer thee this Spiritual Communion to bind my bouquets in a wreath to place upon thy brow in thanksgiving for (YOUR INTENTION) which thou in thy love hast obtained for me. Hail, Mary, etc.
10. + In the name of the Father, and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.
THURSDAY October 26, 2023
Weekday (29)
Vestment: Green
Today’s Rosary: The Luminous Mystery
-FIRST READING-
A reading from the Letter of Saint Paul to the Romans (Romans 6:19-23)
“Now you have been set free from sin and have become slaves of God.”
Brethren: I am speaking in human terms, because of your natural limitations. For just as you once yielded your members to impurity and to greater and greater iniquity, so now yield your members to righteousness for sanctification. When you were slaves of sin, you were free in regard to righteousness. But then what return did you get from the things of which you are now ashamed? The end of those things is death. But now that you have been set free from sin and have become slaves of God, the return you get is sanctification and its end, eternal life. For the wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Psalm1:1-2.3.4 and 6 (R. psalm 40:5ab)
R/. Blessed the man who has placed his trust in the Lord.
Blessed indeed is the man
Who follows not the counsel of the wicked,
Nor stands in the path with sinners,
Nor abides in the company of scorners,
But whose delight is the law of the LORD,
And who ponders his law day and night. R/.
He is like a tree that is planted
Beside the flowing waters,
That yields its fruit in due season,
And whose leaves shall never fade;
And all that he does shall prosper. R/.
Not so are the wicked, not so!
For they, like winnowed chaff,
Shall be driven away by the wind.
For the LORD knows the way of the just,
But the way of the wicked will perish. R/.
ALLELUIA Philippians 3:8-9a
Alleluia. I count everything as refuse, in order that I may gain Christ and be found in him. Alleluia.
-GOSPEL-
A reading from the holy Gospel according to Luke (Luke12:49-53)
I have not come to give peace, but rather division.
At that time: Jesus said to his disciples, “I came to cast fire upon the earth; and would that it were already kindled! I have a baptism to be baptized with; and how I am constrained until it is accomplished! Do you think that I have come to give peace on earth? No, I tell you, but rather division; for henceforth in one house there will be five divided, three against two and two against three; they will be divided, father against son and son against father, mother against daughter and daughter against her mother, mother-in-law against her daughter-in-law and daughter-in-law against her mother-in-law.”
The Gospel of the Lord.
Today’s Reflection
Jesus came to set fire to the earth. The image of fire is a sign of God’s glory and holiness, as manifested in Exodus with Moses. Jesus, according to john the Baptist, will baptize with fire and the Holy Spirit. Fire is also a sign of God’s righteous judgment and his holy wrath against sin. Fire communicates the presence of the power of the Holy Spirit, seen at Pentecost. It is a purifier too. The fire that Jesus casts will purify our human intentions. The division that Jesus speaks of is that which happens within a household, drawing all who believe in him to himself while those that do not believe do not belong to God. Jesus is talking about loyalty to him. This loyalty will bring division among unbelievers. Love of God compels us to always choose him first. To place anything above God is a form of idolatry. Family ties should not take precedence before our ties with God.
Personal Devotional
Reflection on St. Joseph: TWENTY-SIXTH DAY
An angel of the Lord appeared in a dream to joseph, saying, ‘Arise, and take the child and his mother and flee into Egypt” (Matt. 2:13). Consider the ready obedience of St. Joseph, who raised no doubts about the time of the journey, nor about the manner of travelling, nor about the place in Egypt in which they were to stay, but immediately prepared to set out. He instantly makes known to Mary the command of the angel, and on the same night sets out without guide on a journey of 400 miles through mountains, across rugged roads and deserts.
Let Us Pray
My holy protector, obtain for me the grace of perfect obedience to the divine will.
THE MIRACULOUS 54-DAY ROSARY NOVENA, 8TH SEPT. TO 31ST OCT. 2023.
LAST 27 DAYS IN PETITION
SORROWFUL MYSTERIES
Day 49 Thanksgiving: Heavenly Father on this Miraculous 54-Day Rosary Novena, we bow our hearts to you and pray, we give you thanks for all you’ve done especially for the gift of Your son Jesus and his Mother Mary. With thankful hearts, we praise You our God who like a loving parent never denies his children good things. Thank you for hearing all our petitions and granting them. May your name be praised for evermore. Amen.
1. + In the name of the Father, and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit Sign of the cross.
2. Hail Mary.
3. Prayer before the recitation of the rosary
Hail, Queen of the Most Holy Rosary, my Mother Mary, hail! At thy feet I gratefully kneel to offer thee a Crown of Roses snow white buds to remind thee of thy joys each bud recalling to thee a holy mystery; each ten bound together with my petition for a particular grace. O Holy Queen, Dispenser of God’s graces and Mother of all who invoke thee! thou canst not look upon my gift and fail to see its binding. As thou receivest my gift, so wilt thou receive my thanksgiving; from thy bounty thou hast given me the favor I so earnestly and trustingly sought. I despaired not of what I asked of thee, and thou hast truly shown thyself my Mother.
4. Say: The Apostles’ Creed, Our Father, 3 Hail Marys, Glory Be.
5. The Agony in the Garden – Our Father, 10 Hail Marys, Glory Be.
Concluding Prayer: I bind these blood red roses with a petition for the virtue of resignation to the will of God and humbly lay this bouquet at thy feet.
The Scourging at the Pillar – Our Father, 10 Hail Marys, Glory Be.
Concluding Prayer: I bind these blood red roses with a petition for the virtue of mortification and humbly lay this bouquet at thy feet.
The Crowning with Thorns – Our Father, 10 Hail Marys, Glory Be.
Concluding Prayer: I bind these blood red roses with a petition for the virtue of humility and humbly lay this bouquet at thy feet.
The Carrying of the Cross – Our Father, 10 Hail Marys, Glory Be.
Concluding Prayer: I bind these blood red roses with a petition for the virtue of patience in adversity and humbly lay this bouquet at thy feet.
The Crucifixion – Our Father, 10 Hail Marys, Glory Be.
Concluding Prayer: I bind these blood red roses with a petition for the virtue of love of our enemies and humbly lay this bouquet at thy feet.
6. Say: The Hail Holy Queen.
7. Let us pray: O God whose only begotten son by his life death………..
8. Litany of the Blessed Virgin Mary
9. Sweet Mother Mary, I offer thee this spiritual communion to bind my bouquets in a wreath to place upon thy brow. O my Mother! Look with favor upon my gift, and in thy love obtain for me (specify request). Hail Mary …
10. + In the name of the Father, and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit amen.
FRIDAY October 27, 2023
Weekday (29)
Vestment: Green
Today’s Rosary: The Sorrowful Mystery
-FIRST READING-
A reading from the Letter of Saint Paul to the Romans (Romans 7: 18-25a)
“Who will deliver me from this body of death?”
Brethren: I know that nothing good dwells within me, that is, in my flesh. I can will what is right, but I can not do it. For I do not do the good I want, but the evil I do not want is what I do. Now if I do what I do not want, it is no longer I that do it, but sin which dwells within me. So I find it to be a law that when I want to do right, evil lies close at hand. For I delight in the law of God, in my inmost self, but I see in my members another law at war with the law of my mind and making me captive to the law of sin which dwells in my members. Wretched man that I am! Who will deliver me from this body of death? Thanks be to God through Jesus Christ our Lord!
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Psalm119:66.68.76.77.93.94(R. 65b)
R/. Teach me your statutes, O Lord.
Teach me good judgement and knowledge,
for I trust in your commands. R/.
You are good, and you do what is good;
teach me your statutes. R/.
Let your merciful love console me
By your promise to your servant. R/.
R/. Teach me your statutes, O Lord.
Show me compassion, that I may live,
for your law is my delight. R/.
I will never forget your precepts,
for with them you give me life. R/.
Save me, I am yours,
for I seek your precepts. R/.
ALLELUIA Matthew11:25
Alleluia. Blessed are you, Father, Lord of heaven and earth, that you have revealed to little ones the mysteries of the kingdom. Alleluia.
-GOSPEL-
A reading from the holy Gospel according to Luke (Luke12:54-59)
“You know how to interpret the appearance of earth and sky, but why do you not know how to interpret the present time?”
At that time: Jesus said to the multitudes, “When you see a cloud rising in the west, you say at once, ‘A shower is coming’; and so it happens. And when you see the south wind blowing, you say, ‘There will be scorching heat’; and it happens. You hypocrites! You know how to interpret the appearance of earth and sky; but why do you not know how to interpret the present time? “And why do you not judge for yourselves what is right? As you go with your accuser before the magistrate, make an effort to settle with him on the way, lest he drag you to the judge, and the judge hand you over to the officer, and the officer put you in prison. I tell you, you will never get out. Till you have paid the very last copper.”
The Gospel of the Lord.
Today’s Reflection
ST Paul shares the tension within him, he wills to do right but does wrong. Life can be so pressing at times that, even after much commitment to do good, one ends up doing evil. This tension comes as a result of fallen humanity. Man was wounded gravely by sin but still nurtures the wounds of sin. Grace is that which save us from the harassment of sin. In our helplessness, let us remember to cry out to God as Paul did, by seeking help from him through counselling. We have to surrender to God in our weakness and allow him to save us.
Personal Devotional
Reflection on St. Joseph: TWENTY-SEVENTH DAY
How much St. Joseph must have suffered on the journey into Egypt in seeing the sufferings of Jesus and Mary! Their food must have been a piece of hard bread. They could have slept only in some poor hut, or in the open air. Joseph was indeed conformed in all things to the will of the Eternal Father, but his tender and loving heart could not but feel pain in seeing the Son of God trembling and weeping from cold and the other hardships which he experienced.
Let Us Pray: St. Joseph obtain for me the grace that in my journey to eternity I may never lose the company of Jesus and Mary.
THE MIRACULOUS 54-DAY ROSARY NOVENA, 8TH SEPT. TO 31ST OCT. 2023.
LAST 27 DAYS IN PETITION
GLORIOUS MYSTERIES
DAY 50 THANKSGIVING: Heavenly Father on this Miraculous 54-Day Rosary Novena, we bow our hearts to you and pray, we give you thanks for all you’ve done especially for the gift of Your son Jesus and his Mother Mary. With thankful hearts, we praise You our God who like a loving parent never denies his children good things. Thank you for hearing all our petitions and granting them. May your name be praised for evermore. Amen.
1. + In the name of the Father, and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit Sign of the cross.
2. Hail Mary.
3. Prayer before the recitation of the rosary
Hail, Queen of the Most Holy Rosary, my Mother Mary, hail! At thy feet I gratefully kneel to offer thee a Crown of Roses full blown white roses, tinged with the red of the passion, to remind thee of thy glories, fruits of the sufferings of thy Son and thee each rose recalling to thee a holy mystery; each ten bound together with my petition for a particular grace. O Holy Queen, dispenser of God s graces, and Mother of all who invoke thee! thou canst not look upon my gift and fail to see its binding. As thou receivest my gift, so wilt thou receive my thanksgiving; from thy bounty thou bast given me the favor I so earnestly and trustingly sought. I despaired not of what I asked of thee, and thou hast truly shown thyself my Mother.
4. Say: The Apostles’ Creed, Our Father, 3 Hail Marys, Glory Be.
The Resurrection – Our Father, 10 Hail Marys, Glory Be.
Concluding Prayer: I bind these full-blown roses with a petition for the virtue of faith and humbly lay this bouquet at thy feet.
The Ascension – Our Father, 10 Hail Marys, Glory Be.
Concluding Prayer: I bind these full-blown roses with a petition for the virtue of hope and humbly lay this bouquet at thy feet.
The Descent of the Holy Spirit – Our Father, 10 Hail Marys, Glory Be.
Concluding Prayer: I bind these full-blown roses with a petition for the virtue of charity and humbly lay this bouquet at thy feet.
The Assumption of Mary – Our Father, 10 Hail Marys, Glory Be.
Concluding Prayer: I bind these full-blown roses with a petition for the virtue of union with Christ and humbly lay this bouquet at thy feet.
The Coronation of the Blessed Mother – Our Father, 10 Hail Marys, Glory Be.
Concluding Prayer: I bind these full-blown roses with a petition for the virtue of union with thee and humbly lay this bouquet at thy feet.
6. Say: The Hail Holy Queen.
7. Let us pray: O God whose only begotten son by his life death………..
8. Litany of the Blessed Virgin Mary
9. Sweet Mother Mary, I offer thee this Spiritual Communion to bind my bouquets in a wreath to place upon thy brow in thanksgiving for (specify request) which thou in thy love hast obtained for me. Hail, Mary, etc.
10. + In the name of the Father, and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit amen.
SATURDAY October 28, 2023
Weekday 30th
Vestment: Red
Today’s Rosary: The Joyful Mystery
SAINTS SIMON AND JUDE, Apostles Feast
Very little is known about Simon except that he was a Zealot and was from Cana. Jude, also called Thaddeus, was the apostle who, at the last Supper, asked Jesus why he was showing himself only to his disciples and not to the world (In 14:22).
Entrance Antiphon
These are the holy men whom the Lord chose in his own sheer love; and he gave them eternal glory.
Collect
O God, who by the blessed Apostles have brought us to acknowledge your name, grant graciously, through the intercession of Saints Simon and Jude, that the Church may constantly grow by increase of the peoples who believe in you. Through our Lord. . .
-FIRST READING-
A reading from the Letter of Saint Paul to the Ephesians (Ephesians 2:19-22)
“Built upon the foundation of the apostles.”
Brethren: You are no longer strangers and sojourners, but you are fellow citizens with the saints and members of the household of God, built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Christ
Jesus himself being the cornerstone, in whom the whole structure is joined together and grows into a holy temple in the Lord; in whom you also are built into it for a dwelling place of God in the Spirit.
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Psalm 19:1-2.3-4ab (R. 4a)
R/. Their sound goes forth through all the earth.
The heavens declare the glory of God,
and the firmament proclaims the work of his hands.
Day unto day conveys the message,
and night unto night imparts the knowledge. R/.
No speech, no word, whose voice goes unheeded;
their sound goes forth through all the earth,
their message to the utmost bounds of the world. R/.
ALLELUIA
Alleluia. We praise you, O God, we acclaim you as the Lord; the glorious band of apostles sings your praise, O Lord! Alleluia.
-GOSPEL-
A reading from the holy Gospel according to Luke (Luke 6:12-19)
“He chose from them twelve, whom he named apostles.”
In these days: Jesus went out into the hills to pray; and all night he continued in prayer to God. And when it was day, he called his disciples, and chose from them twelve, whom he named apostles; Simon, whom he named Peter, and Andrew his brother, and James and John, and Philip, and Bartholomew, and Matthew, and Thomas, and James the son of Alphaeus, and Simon who was called the Zealot, and Judas the son of James, and Judas Iscariot, who became a traitor. And he came down with them and stood on a level place, with a great crowd of his disciples and a great multitude of people from all Judea and Jerusalem and the seacoast of Tyre and Sidon, who came to hear him and to be healed of their diseases; and those who were troubled with unclean spirits were cured. And all the crowd sought to touch him, for power came forth from him and healed them all.
The Gospel of the Lord.
Today’s Reflection
The church today celebrates the feast of the two apostles: Simon and Jude. St Paul writing to Ephesians tells us that the structure, that is the church, is built on the foundation of the apostles. We are no more foreigners and outsiders, but are fellow citizens with the saints and the embers of the household of God because of the preaching of the apostles. The preaching and the martyrdom of the apostles gave a sure foundation for the church of which Jesus Christ is the corner stone. They were specially chosen by Jesus after a night of prayer and discernment (gospel). They lived with him, learnt from him and experienced his love. They were filled with the Holy Spirit at Pentecost and went out to preach the good news of Christ boldly and bore witness to him. Finally they laid their lives for him in their supreme act of love and sacrifice. Tradition says that Simon and Jude preached the Gospel in Mesopotamia and Persia. Jesus called them for no merit of their own, but in his infinite wisdom, and empowered them for his mission. The feast of Apostles Simon and Jude reminds us that we are part of the body of Christ and that we have a duty to bear witness to Christ who is our head and our corner stone, no matter what our state of life be.
Blessing for the New Week
When the Lord walks with me, my journey will be smooth, safe and prosperous.
When the lord walks with me, I will have the best companion every by my side.
When the Lord walks with me, he sees that danger ahead on my path and he handles it before I get there.
When the Lord walks with me, his presence will ward off from me every attack of the evil one.
When the Lord walks with me, my healing and restoration is assured a 100%.
It is a new day and a new week my dear friend, I pray that the Lord will walk with you throughout this week so that you will have multiple testimonies to share at the end of the day.
I decree and declare upon you, your family, work, business, studies e.t.c. open doors of blessings, favour, healing, promotion, peace, spiritual rejuvenation, fruitfulness and every wonderful thing you desire in this life.
Dear friend, go out with faith and make sure that Jesus is by your side, then you will have nothing to worry, because he will make all things well for you.
Be kind to people and kindness will inundate your life. Amen. It is better to walk with the lord and hold his hands than to walk alone
Meditation: Luke 13:10-17
Personal Devotional
Reflection on St. Joseph: TWENTY-EIGHTH DAY
Consider the love which St. Joseph bore to Mary, his holy spouse. She was the most beautiful of all women. She was more humble, more meek, more pure, more obedient, more inflamed with love of God, than all the angels and then all men that have been or shall be created. Hence, she merited all his love. Add to this his realization of the love that she bore for him, and the fact that God had chosen her as his beloved Mother.
Let Us Pray
St. Joseph, obtain for me a great love for Mary, thy most holy spouse.
THE MIRACULOUS 54-DAY ROSARY NOVENA, 8TH SEPT. TO 31ST OCT. 2023.
LAST 27 DAYS IN PETITION
GLORIOUS MYSTERIES
DAY 51 THANKSGIVING: Heavenly Father on this Miraculous 54-Day Rosary Novena, we bow our hearts to you and pray, we give you thanks for all you’ve done especially for the gift of Your son Jesus and his Mother Mary. With thankful hearts, we praise You our God who like a loving parent never denies his children good things. Thank you for hearing all our petitions and granting them. May your name be praised for evermore. Amen.
1. + In the name of the Father, and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit Sign of the cross.
2. Hail Mary.
3. Prayer before the recitation of the rosary
Hail, Queen of the Most Holy Rosary, my Mother Mary, hail! At thy feet I gratefully kneel to offer thee a Crown of Roses full blown white roses, tinged with the red of the passion, to remind thee of thy glories, fruits of the sufferings of thy Son and thee each rose recalling to thee a holy mystery; each ten bound together with my petition for a particular grace. O Holy Queen, dispenser of God s graces, and Mother of all who invoke thee! thou canst not look upon my gift and fail to see its binding. As thou receivest my gift, so wilt thou receive my thanksgiving; from thy bounty thou bast given me the favor I so earnestly and trustingly sought. I despaired not of what I asked of thee, and thou hast truly shown thyself my Mother.
4. Say: The Apostles’ Creed, Our Father, 3 Hail Marys, Glory Be.
The Resurrection – Our Father, 10 Hail Marys, Glory Be.
Concluding Prayer: I bind these full-blown roses with a petition for the virtue of faith and humbly lay this bouquet at thy feet.
The Ascension – Our Father, 10 Hail Marys, Glory Be.
Concluding Prayer: I bind these full-blown roses with a petition for the virtue of hope and humbly lay this bouquet at thy feet.
The Descent of the Holy Spirit – Our Father, 10 Hail Marys, Glory Be.
Concluding Prayer: I bind these full-blown roses with a petition for the virtue of charity and humbly lay this bouquet at thy feet.
The Assumption of Mary – Our Father, 10 Hail Marys, Glory Be.
Concluding Prayer: I bind these full-blown roses with a petition for the virtue of union with Christ and humbly lay this bouquet at thy feet.
The Coronation of the Blessed Mother – Our Father, 10 Hail Marys, Glory Be.
Concluding Prayer: I bind these full-blown roses with a petition for the virtue of union with thee and humbly lay this bouquet at thy feet.
6. Say: The Hail Holy Queen.
7. Let us pray: O God whose only begotten son by his life death………..
8. Litany of the Blessed Virgin Mary
9. Sweet Mother Mary, I offer thee this Spiritual Communion to bind my bouquets in a wreath to place upon thy brow in thanksgiving for (specify request) which thou in thy love hast obtained for me. Hail, Mary, etc.
10. + In the name of the Father, and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit amen.
Sunday October 29, 2023
Thirtieth Sunday of the year A.
Vestment: Green
Today’s Rosary: The Glorious Mystery
Theme of the Sunday: The Whole Law Is Summarised in Love. The Christian catechism is not difficult; it can all be learnt in one lesson. If we obey the commandment of love we fulfil the whole law. The rest is just comment and explanation. This is the message we learn from the gospel today. The first reading applies this commandment to our less fortunate brothers and sisters, strangers, orphans and widows. The second reading is linked to this theme; it gives the example of the early Christian communities who obeyed the law of love.
Entrance Antiphon Cf. Ps105:3-4
Let the hearts that seek the Lord rejoice; Turn to the Lord and his strength; constantly seek his face.
Collect
Almighty ever-living God, increase our faith, hope and charity, and make us love what you command, so that we may merit what you promise. Through our Lord. .
-FIRST READING-
If you afflict any widow or orphan, my wrath will burn against you.
A reading from the Book of Exodus (Exodus 22:21-27)
Thus says the Lord: “You shall not wrong a stranger or oppress him, for you were strangers in the land of Egypt. You shall not afflict any widow or orphan. If you do afflict them, and they cry out to me, I will surely hear their cry; and my wrath will burn, and I will kill you with the sword, and your wives shall become widows and your children fatherless. “If you lend money to any of my people with you who is poor, you shall not be to him as a creditor, and you shall not exact interest from him. If ever you take your neighbour’s garment in pledge, you shall restore it to him before the sun goes down; for that is his only covering, it is his mantle for his body; in what else shall he sleep? And if he cries to me, I will hear, for I am compassionate.
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Psalm 18:2-3a.3bc-4.47 and 51ab (R. 2)
R/. I love you, Lord, my strength.
I love you, Lord, my strength;
O Lord, my rock, my fortress, my saviour. R.
My God, my rock where I take refuge;
my shield, my saving strength, my stronghold.
I cry out, Praised be the Lord!
and see, I am saved from my foes. R
The Lord lives, and blest be my Rock!
May the God of my salvation be exalted.
The Lord gives great victories to his king,
and shows merciful love for his anointed. R
-SECOND READING-
You turned from idols to serve God and to wait for his Son.
A reading from the first Letter of Saint Paul to the Thessalonians (1 Thessalonians 1:5c-10)
Brethren: You know what kind of men we proved to be among you for your sake. And you became imitators of us and of the Lord, for you received the word in much affliction, with joy inspired by the Holy Spirit; so that you became an example to all the believers in Macedonia and in Achaia. For not only has the word of the Lord sounded forth from you in Macedonia and Achaia, but your faith in God has gone forth everywhere, so that we need not say anything. For they themselves report concerning us what a welcome we had among you, and how you turned to God from idols, to serve a living and true God, and to wait for his Son from heaven, whom he raised from the dead, Jesus who delivers us from the wrath to come.
The word of the Lord.
ALLELUIA John 14:23
Alleluia. If a man loves me, he will keep my words, says the Lord; and my Father will love him, and we will come to him. Alleluia.
-GOSPEL-
You shall love the Lord your God and your neighbour as yourself.
A reading from the holy Gospel according to Matthew (Matthew 22:34-40)
At that time: When the Pharisees heard that Jesus had silenced the Sadducees, they came together. And one of them, a lawyer, asked him a question, to test him. “Teacher, which is the great commandment in the law?” And he said to him, “You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your mind. This is the great and first commandment. And a second is like it, You shall love your neighbour as yourself. On these two commandments depend all the law and the prophets.
The Gospel of the Lord.
PRAYER OF THE FAITHFUL
Love God and your neighbour.
PRIEST: Jesus Christ has told us that we are to love God, and our neighbour as ourselves. We turn in loving prayer to the Lord, and ask for the grace to fulfill the greatest commandment of all.
READERS:
FOR THE CHURCH, (pause) that she may reflect the love of her Lord by her unselfish love not only for her own followers, but for everyone in our world. (pause) Lord, hear us; make us love you always we pray Oh Lord.
FOR PEACE IN OUR WORLD, (pause) that nations may learn the ways of peace by living in mutual trust and harmony, which is ultimately based on love. (pause) Lord, hear us; make us love you always we pray Oh Lord.
FOR THOSE WHO ARE LONELY, AND HAVE NO ONE TO LOVE THEM, (pause) that those who are shut in on themselves may open their hearts to the Lord’s abiding presence, and find the courage to go out to others in their search for friendship. (pause) Lord, hear us; make us love you always we pray Oh Lord.
FOR A DEEPER LOVE OF GOD IN THE COMMUNITY, (pause) that we may know God by loving him, love him by knowing him, and give our hearts to him in complete service. (pause) Lord, hear us; make us love you always we pray Oh Lord.
PRIEST: We pray in silence for our needs to God our Father, who truly loves us.
Father, may the prayers we have made in love be answered by you, in your love for us. Through Christ our Lord. Amen.
Today’s Reflection
Which is the greatest commandment of the Law? Jesus replied; “You shall love the Lord your God with all your soul and all your mind… you shall love your neighbor as yourself.” This answer of Jesus is a summary of our Christian faith. It appears easy to say and repeat when asked, yet difficult to practice. The word ‘all’ simply means that when we love, it must be unconditional, unlimited and entire.
The reading from Exodus expands this and tells us how we should be compassionate and benevolent towards the strangers, widows, orphans and the poor. In today’s world we find situations so contrary to this biblical teaching: strangers are exploited economically and emotionally, poor and the weak are oppressed and condemned to live in misery and impoverishment. Today’s readings challenge us to welcome the stranger, empower the weak, provide for the poor, and comfort the afflicted. As true disciples of Christ, love alone must rule our lives, constantly reflecting the compassionate and loving face of Jesus who loved unconditionally.
Personal Devotional
Reflection on St. Joseph: TWENTY-NINTH DAY
How much St. Joseph must have suffered on the journey into Egypt in seeing the sufferings of Jesus and Mary! Their food must have been a piece of hard bread. They could have slept only in some poor hut, or in the open air. Joseph was indeed conformed in all things to the will of the Eternal Father, but his tender and loving heart could not but feel pain in seeing the Son of God trembling and weeping from cold and the other hardships which he experienced.
Let Us Pray:
St. Joseph obtain for me the grace that in my journey to eternity I may never lose the company of Jesus and Mary.
THE HOLY ROSARY
When the rosary is recited in a group, there will be a leader (L) and response (R).
If you do not have Rosary beads, it is perfectly okay to count with your fingers, but counting beads frees your mind to help you meditate.
On the first bead say Our Father; on the next three beads recites the Hail Mary, after the third Hail Mary, recite the Glory be, and the Fatima prayers. Before the 1st of the 10 Hail Mary beads, announce the relevant mystery for the day and say Our Father. Say the Glory Be and the Fatima prayers after each decade subsequently.
BEGIN WITH THE SIGN OF THE CROSS
+In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.
L: Come Holy Spirit fill the hearts of the faithful,
R: And enkindle in them the fire of thy love.
L: Send forth thy Spirit and they shall be recreated,
R: And thou shalt renew the face of the earth,
Let us pray:
ALL: O God, who by the light of the Holy Spirit, did instruct the hearts of the faithful, grant that in the same spirit we may be truly wise and ever rejoice in his consolation, through Christ our Lord. Amen.
L: Thou O Lord shall open my lips,
R: And my tongue shall proclaim thy praise,
L: Incline unto my aid O God,
R: O Lord make haste to help me
L: Glory be to the Father, and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit,
R: As it was in the beginning is now and ever shall be, world without end. Amen
THE CREED
L: I believe in God, the Father Almighty, creator of Heaven and earth; and in Jesus Christ, His only Son, Our Lord, Who was conceived by the Holy Spirit, born of the Virgin Mary, suffered under Pontius Pilate, was crucified; died, and was buried. He descended into hell. On the third day, He rose again from the dead, He ascended into Heaven, and is seated at the right hand of God, the Father Almighty; from thence He shall come to judge the living and the dead.
R: I believe in the Holy Spirit, the holy Catholic Church, the communion of saints, the forgiveness of sins, the resurrection of the body, and life everlasting. Amen.
OUR FATHER
L: Our Father, Who art in heaven, hallowed be Thy name; Thy kingdom come; Thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven.
R: Give us this day our daily bread; and forgive us our trespasses as we forgive those who trespass against us; and lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. Amen.
HAIL MARY
L: Hail Mary, full of grace. The Lord is with thee. Blessed art thou amongst women, and blessed is the fruit of thy womb, Jesus.
R: Holy Mary, Mother of God, pray for us sinners, now and at the hour of our death, Amen.
GLORY BE
L: Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit,
R: as it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, world without end. Amen.
FATIMA PRAYER:
ALL: O my Jesus, forgive us of our sins. Save us from the fire of hell. Lead all souls into heaven, especially those in most need of thy mercy.
L: Jesus have mercy on us,
R: Blessed virgin Mary help us,
L: May the souls of all the faithful departed
R: Through the mercy of God rest in peace amen,
-------------------------------------------------
THE GLORIOUS MYSTERIES (Wednesdays and Sundays)
1. The Resurrection
Jesus rises from the dead. Matthew 28:1-10, Luke 24:1-11, John 20:1-10, Romans 6:1-14
2. The Ascension
Jesus leaves the Apostles and bodily "ascends" to heaven. Luke 24:44-53, Acts 1:1-11, Matthew 28:16-20
3. The Descent of the Holy Spirit
The Apostles receive the Holy Spirit in tongues of fire in the upper room with Mary. Acts 2:1-11, John 14:15-21
4. The Assumption
Mary is taken bodily into heaven by God at the end of her life here on earth. John 11:17-27, 1 Corinthians 15:12-57, Revelation 21:1-6
5. The Coronation
Mary is crowned Queen of Heaven and Earth. Revelation 7:1-4,9-12, 21:1-6 Matthew 5:1-12
HAIL HOLY QUEEN
ALL: Hail, holy Queen, Mother of mercy, hail our life, our sweetness and our hope. To thee do we cry, poor banished children of Eve: to thee do we send up our sighs, mourning and weeping in this valley of tears. Turn then, most gracious Advocate, thine eyes of mercy toward us, and after this our exile, show unto us the blessed fruit of thy womb, Jesus. O clement, O loving, O sweet Virgin Mary!
L: Pray for us O Holy Mother of God,
R: That we may be made worthy of the promises of Christ.
L: Let us pray.
All: O God, whose only begotten Son by his life, death, and resurrection has purchased for us the rewards of eternal salvation; grant we beseech thee, that meditating upon these mysteries in the most Holy Rosary of the Blessed Virgin Mary, we may imitate what they contain and obtain what they promise through the same Christ our Lord. Amen.
L: May the divine assistance always remain with us,
R: May the souls of the faithful departed through the mercy of God rest in peace amen.
L: Most Sacred heart of Jesus
R: Have mercy on us
L: Immaculate Heart of Mary
R: Pray for Us
L: Saint Joseph
R: Pray for Us
L: St. John the Evangelist
R: Pray for Us
L: St. Louis Maria de Monfort
R: Pray for Us
LITANY OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN MARY
L. Lord, have mercy.
R. Lord have mercy.
L. Christ have mercy.
R. Christ have mercy
L. Christ hear us.
R. Christ graciously hear us.
God the Father of heaven,
have mercy on us.
God the Son, Redeemer of the world,
have mercy on us.
God the Holy Spirit,
have mercy on us.
Holy Trinity, one God,
have mercy on us.
Holy Mary,
pray for us.
Holy Mother of God,
pray for us.
Holy Virgin of Virgins,
Mother of Christ,
Mother of the Church
MOTHER of Mercy
Mother of divine grace,
MOTHER of Hope
Mother most pure,
Mother most chaste,
Mother inviolate,
Mother undefiled,
Mother most amiable,
Mother most admirable,
Mother of good Counsel,
Mother of our Creator,
Mother of our Savior,
Virgin most prudent,
Virgin most venerable,
Virgin most renowned,
Virgin most powerful,
Virgin most merciful,
Virgin most faithful,
Mirror of justice,
Seat of wisdom,
Cause of our joy,
Spiritual vessel,
Vessel of honor,
Singular vessel of devotion,
Mystical rose,
Tower of David,
Tower of ivory,
House of gold,
Ark of the covenant,
Gate of heaven,
Morning star,
Health of the sick,
Refuge of sinners,
COMFORT of Migrants
Comforter of the afflicted,
Help of Christians,
Queen of Angels,
Queen of Patriarchs,
Queen of Prophets,
Queen of Apostles,
Queen of Martyrs,
Queen of Confessors,
Queen of Virgins,
Queen of all Saints,
Queen conceived without original sin,
Queen assumed into heaven,
Queen of the most holy Rosary,
Queen of families,
Queen of peace,
Lamb of God, who takes away the sins of the world,
Spare us o Lord
Lamb of God, who takes away the sins of the world,
Graciously hear us o Lord
Lamb of God, who takes away the sins of the world,
Have mercy on us
Pray for us, O holy mother of God,
That we may be made worthy of the promises of Christ
Let Us Pray:
Grant we beseech thee, O Lord, that we your servants may enjoy perpetual health of mind and body and by the glorious intercession of the blessed Mary ever Virgin, may be delivered from present sorrows and attain to eternal joy, through Christ our Lord. Amen.
THE MEMORARE
Remember, o most gracious virgin Mary, that never was it known that anyone who fled to thy protection, implore thy help or sought thy intercession was left unaided. Inspired by this confidence, I fly unto thee, o virgin of virgins, my mother, to thee I come, before thee I stand sinful and sorrowful. O mother of the word incarnate, despise not my petition but in thy mercy hear and answer me. Amen.
PRAYER TO ST. MICHAEL
Holy Michael, the Archangel defend us in the day of battle, be our safeguard against the wickedness and snares of the devil. May God rebuke him, we humbly pray and do thou, o prince of the heavenly host, by the power of God, cast into hell, satan and all wicked spirit who wander through the world for the ruin of souls. Amen .
Monday October 30, 2023
Weekday (30) ordinary Time
Vestment: Green
Today’s Rosary: The Joyful Mystery
-FIRST READING-
A reading from the Letter of Saint Paul to the Romans (Romans 8:12-17).
You have received the spirit of sonship in whom we cry, “Abba! Father!
Brethren, we are debtors, not to the flesh, to live according to the flesh — for if you live according to the flesh you will die, but if by the Spirit you put to death the deeds of the body you will live. For all who are led by the Spirit of God are sons of God. For you did not receive the spirit of slavery to fall back into fear, but you have received the spirit of sonship. When we cry, “Abba! Father!” it is the Spirit himself bearing witness with our spirit that we are children of God, and if children, then heirs, heirs of God and fellow heirs with Christ, provided we suffer with him in order that we may also be glorified with him.
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Psalm 68:2 and 4.6-7ab.20-21 (R. 21a).
R/. This God of ours is a God who saves.
Let God arise; let his foes be scattered.
Let those who hate him flee from his face.
But the just shall rejoice at the presence of God;
they shall exult with glad rejoicing. R/.
Father of orphans, defender of widows:
such is God in his holy place.
God gives the desolate a home to dwell in;
He leads the prisoners forth into prosperity. R/.
Day after day, may the Lord be blest.
He bears our burdens; God is our saviour.
This God of ours is a God who saves.
The Lord our Lord provides an escape from death. R/.
ALLELUIA John 17:17ba
Alleluia. Your word, O Lord, is truth; sanctify us in the truth. Alleluia.
-GOSPEL-
A reading from the holy Gospel according to Luke (Luke13:10-17).
Ought not this daughter of Abraham be loosed from this bond on the sabbath day?
At that time: Jesus was teaching in one of the synagogues on the sabbath. And there was a woman who had had a spirit of infirmity for eighteen years; she was bent over and could not fully straighten herself. And when Jesus saw her, he called her and said to her, “Woman, you are freed from your infirmity.” And he laid his hands upon her, and immediately she was made straight, and she praised God. But the ruler of the synagogue, indignant because Jesus had healed on the sabbath, said to the people, “There are six days on which work ought to be done; come on those days and be healed, and not on the Sabbath day.” Then the Lord answered him, “You hypocrites! Does not each of you on the Sabbath untie his ox or his donkey from the manger, and lead it away to water it? And ought not this woman, a daughter of Abraham whom Satan bound for eighteen years, be loosed from this bond on the Sabbath day?” As he said this, all his adversaries were put to shame; and all the people rejoiced at all the glorious things that were done by him.
The Gospel of the Lord.
Today’s Reflection
Everyone moved by the Spirit of God is a child of God. Baptism makes us children of God because we receive the spirit of Christ that cries out “Abba, Father”. But it is not enough simply to receive it; we must allow the spirit of God to direct us. We do so when we obey our spiritual selves rather than the unspiritual self, we fall prey to the device of the devil. We profess without action. The synagogue officials were the ones that really needed healing. Their spiritual life was bent and needed the touch of Jesus, but hypocrisy and pride would not allow them. Let us pay more attention to spiritual things and improve our spiritual life so that we may find grace and healing from Jesus.
Blessing for the New Week
When the Lord walks with me, my journey will be smooth, safe and prosperous.
When the lord walks with me, I will have the best companion every by my side.
When the Lord walks with me, he sees that danger ahead on my path and he handles it before I get there.
When the Lord walks with me, his presence will ward off from me every attack of the evil one.
When the Lord walks with me, my healing and restoration is assured a 100%.
It is a new day and a new week my dear friend, I pray that the Lord will walk with you throughout this week so that you will have multiple testimonies to share at the end of the day.
I decree and declare upon you, your family, work, business, studies e.t.c. open doors of blessings, favour, healing, promotion, peace, spiritual rejuvenation, fruitfulness and every wonderful thing you desire in this life.
Dear friend, go out with faith and make sure that Jesus is by your side, then you will have nothing to worry, because he will make all things well for you.
Be kind to people and kindness will inundate your life. Amen. It is better to walk with the lord and hold his hands than to walk alone
Meditation: Luke 13:10-17
Personal Devotional
Reflection on St. Joseph Day 30
How much St. Joseph must have suffered on the journey into Egypt in seeing the sufferings of Jesus and Mary! Their food must have been a piece of hard bread. They could have slept only in some poor hut, or in the open air. Joseph was indeed conformed in all things to the will of the Eternal Father, but his tender and loving heart could not but feel pain in seeing the Son of God trembling and weeping from cold and the other hardships which he experienced.
Let Us Pray: St. Joseph obtain for me the grace that in my journey to eternity I may never lose the company of Jesus and Mary.
THE MIRACULOUS 54-DAY ROSARY NOVENA
LAST 27 DAYS IN THANKSGIVING
Day 53: THE GLORIOUS MYSTERIES
1. Sign of the Cross:
In the name of the Father, and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit Amen
PERSONAL INTENTION (THANKSGIVING): Heavenly Father on this Miraculous 54-Day Rosary Novena, we bow our hearts to you and pray, we give you thanks for all you’ve done especially for the gift of Your son Jesus and his Mother Mary. With thankful hearts, we praise You our God who like a loving parent never denies his children good things. Thank you for hearing all our petitions and granting them. May your name be praised for evermore. Amen.
2. Hail Mary:
Hail Mary, full of grace, The Lord is with Thee; Blessed art thou among women, And blessed is the fruit of thy womb, Jesus. Holy Mary, Mother of God, Pray for us sinners, now and at the hour of our death. Amen
3. IN THANKSGIVING (Last 27 Days):
Hail, Queen of the Most Holy Rosary, my Mother Mary, hail! At thy feet I gratefully kneel to offer thee a Crown of Roses full blown white roses, tinged with the red of the passion, to remind thee of thy glories, fruits of the sufferings of thy Son and thee each rose recalling to thee a holy mystery; each ten bound together with my petition for a particular grace. O Holy Queen, dispenser of God s graces, and Mother of all who invoke thee! Thou canst not look upon my gift and fail to see its binding. As thou receivest my gift, so wilt thou receive my thanksgiving; from thy bounty thou hast given me the favor I so earnestly and trustingly sought. I despaired not of what I asked of thee, and thou hast truly shown thyself my Mother.
4. Say:
- The Apostles’ Creed,
- Our Father,
- 3 Hail Mary,
- Glory Be.
5. For each of the following Mysteries, say: Our Father, 10 Hail Mary, Glory Be.
The Resurrection – Our Father, 10 Hail Mary, Glory Be.
Concluding Prayer: I bind these full-blown roses with a petition for the virtue of faith and humbly lay this bouquet at thy feet.
The Ascension – Our Father, 10 Hail Mary, Glory Be.
Concluding Prayer: I bind these full-blown roses with a petition for the virtue of hope and humbly lay this bouquet at thy feet.
The Descent of the Holy Spirit – Our Father, 10 Hail Mary, Glory Be.
Concluding Prayer: I bind these full-blown roses with a petition for the virtue of charity and humbly lay this bouquet at thy feet.
The Assumption of Mary – Our Father, 10 Hail Mary, Glory Be.
Concluding Prayer: I bind these full-blown roses with a petition for the virtue of union with Christ and humbly lay this bouquet at thy feet.
The Coronation of the Blessed Mother – Our Father, 10 Hail Mary, Glory Be.
Concluding Prayer: I bind these full-blown roses with a petition for the virtue of union with thee and humbly lay this bouquet at thy feet.
6. Say: The Hail Holy Queen.
Hail Holy Queen, Mother of mercy, hail Our life, our sweetness, and our hope. To thee do we cry, poor banished children of Eve. To thee do we send up our sighs, mourning and weeping in this valley of tears. Turn then, most gracious advocate, thine eyes of mercy towards us. And after this, our exile, show unto us the blessed fruit of thy womb, Jesus. O clement O loving O sweet Virgin Mary.
V/. Pray for us oh holy mother of God.
R/. That we may be made worthy of the promises of Christ.
7. Let us pray: O God whose only begotten son by his life death………..
8. Litany of the Blessed Virgin Mary (optional)
9. IN THANKSGIVING (last 27 days): Sweet Mother Mary, I offer thee this Spiritual Communion to bind my bouquets in a wreath to place upon thy brow in thanksgiving for (specify request) which thou in thy love hast obtained for me. Hail, Mary, etc.
HAIL MARY;
Hail Mary, full of grace, The Lord is with Thee; Blessed art thou among women, And blessed is the fruit of thy womb, Jesus. Holy Mary, Mother of God, Pray for us sinners, now and at the hour of our death. Amen
10. In the name of the Father, and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit amen.
– Promise of Our Lady of the Most Holy Rosary
Whoever desires to obtain favors from Me should make three novenas of the prayers of the Rosary, and three novenas in thanksgiving.”
- Fr Richard Heilman February 7, 2016
TUESDAY October 31, 2023
Weekday (30)
Vestment: Green
Today’s Rosary: The Sorrowful Mystery
-FIRST READING-
A reading from the Letter of Saint Paul to the Romans (Romans 8:18-25)
“Creation waits with eager longing for the revealing of the sons of God.”
Brethren: I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worth comparing with the glory that is to be revealed to us. For the creation waits with eager longing for the revealing of the sons of God; for the creation was subjected to futility, not of its own will but by the will of him who subjected it in hope; because the creation itself will be set free from its bondage to decay and obtain the glorious liberty of the children of God. We know that the whole creation has been groaning with labour pains together until now; and not only the creation, but we ourselves, who have the first fruits of the Spirit, groan inwardly as we wait for adoption as sons, the redemption of our bodies. For in this hope we were saved. Now hope that is seen is not hope. For who hopes for what he sees? But if we hope for what we do not see, we wait for it with patience.
The word of the Lord.
RESPONSORIAL PSALM Psalm 126:1-2ab.2cd-3.4-5.6 (R.3a)
R/. What great deeds the Lord worked for us!
When the Lord brought back the exiles of Sion,
we thought we were dreaming.
Then was our mouth filled with laughter;
on our tongues, songs of joy. R/.
Then the nations themselves said,
“What great deeds the Lord worked for them!”
What great deeds the Lord worked for us!
Indeed, we were glad. R/.
R/. What great deeds the Lord worked for us!
Bring back our exiles, O Lord,
as streams in the south.
Those who are sowing in tears
will sing when they reap. R/.
They go out, they go out, full of tears,
bearing seed for the sowing;
they come back, they come back with a song,
bearing their sheaves. R/.
ALLELUIA Matthew11:25
Alleluia. Blessed are you, Father, Lord of heaven and earth, that you have revealed to little ones the mysteries of the kingdom. Alleluia.
-GOSPEL-
A reading from the holy Gospel according to Luke (Luke13:15-21)
“The seed grew and became a tree.”
At that time: Jesus said, “What is the kingdom of God like? And to what shall I compare it? It is like a grain of mustard seed which a man took and sowed in his garden; and it grew and became a tree, and the birds of the air made nests in its branches.” And again he said, “To what shall I compare the kingdom of God? It is like leaven which a woman took and hid in three measures of meal, till it was all leavened.”
The Gospel of the Lord.
Today’s Reflection
Suffering is part of our Christian vocation. Life is full of suffering and pain but also full of joy and happiness. Christian suffering has a redemptive/salvific purpose. We suffer in order to identify and participate in the suffering of Christ. We gain salvation in return only when we patiently go through the pain that comes our way. We experience joy deep down within when we suffer for the sake of Christ, either by unjust treatment or lies peddled against one. There is hope of God’s glory in moments of unfortunate events. This makes it possible for us not to see suffering as God’s punishment or condemnation but rather, as a way by which he draws us closer to himself.
Personal Devotional
Reflection on St. Joseph: 31ST DAY
Consider the love which joseph bore to Jesus. This love was not purely human like the love of other fathers, but super-human; for he loved Jesus not only as his son but also as his God. Joseph knew from the angel that his child was the Di-vine word who had he himself had been chosen from among all men to be the protector and guardian of this divine infant. What a flame of holy love must, then, have been enkindled in the heart of Joseph by reflecting on all these things, and by the sight of his Lord obeying him like a little boy, opening and closing the door, helping him to saw or to plane, gathering fragments of wood, or sweeping the house!
Let Us Pray
St. Joseph, remove from my heart all that could be an obstacle to the love of God.
THE MIRACULOUS 54-DAY ROSARY NOVENA, 8TH SEPT. TO 31ST OCT. 2023.
LAST 27 DAYS IN THANKSGIVING
THE JOYFUL MYSTERIES
Day 54 THANKSGIVING: Heavenly Father on this Miraculous 54-Day Rosary Novena, we bow our hearts to you and pray, we give you thanks for all you’ve done especially for the gift of Your son Jesus and his Mother Mary. With thankful hearts, we praise You our God who like a loving parent never denies his children good things. Thank you for hearing all our petitions and granting them. May your name be praised for evermore. Amen.
1. + In the name of the Father, and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit Sign of the cross.
2. Hail Mary.
3. Prayer before the recitation of the rosary
Hail, Queen of the Most Holy Rosary, my Mother Mary, hail! At thy feet I humbly kneel to offer thee a Crown of Roses, snow white buds to remind thee of thy joys, each bud recalling to thee a holy mystery, each 10 bound together with my petition for a particular grace. O Holy Queen, dispenser of God’s graces, and Mother of all who invoke thee, thou canst not look upon my gift and fail to see its binding. As thou receivest my gift, so wilt thou receive my petition; from thy bounty thou wilt give me the favor I so earnestly and trustingly seek. I despair of nothing that I ask of thee. Show thyself my Mother!
4. The Apostles’ Creed, Our Father, 3 Hail Marys, Glory Be.
The Annunciation – Our Father, 10 Hail Marys, Glory Be.
Concluding Prayer: I bind these snow-white buds with a petition for the virtue of humility and humbly lay this bouquet at thy feet.
The Visitation – Our Father, 10 Hail Marys, Glory Be.
Concluding Prayer: I bind these snow-white buds with a petition for the virtue of charity and humbly lay this bouquet at thy feet.
The Nativity – Our Father, 10 Hail Marys, Glory Be.
Concluding Prayer: I bind these snow-white buds with a petition for the virtue of detachment from the world and humbly lay this bouquet at thy feet.
The Presentation – Our Father, 10 Hail Marys, Glory Be.
Concluding Prayer: I bind these snow-white buds with a petition for the virtue of purity and humbly lay this bouquet at thy feet.
Finding the Child Jesus in the Temple – Our Father, 10 Hail Marys, Glory Be.
Concluding Prayer: I bind these snow-white buds with a petition for the virtue of obedience to the will of God and humbly lay this bouquet at thy feet.
6. The Hail Holy Queen.
7. Let us pray: O God whose only begotten son by his life death………..
8. Litany of the Blessed Virgin Mary
9. Sweet Mother Mary, I offer thee this Spiritual Communion to bind my bouquets in a wreath to place upon thy brow in thanksgiving for (YOUR INTENTION) which thou in thy love hast obtained for me. Hail, Mary, etc.
10. + In the name of the Father, and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.