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Pastoral Reflections Finding God In Ourselves by Msgr. Don Fischer
Gospel Luke 21:34-36 Jesus said to his disciples: "Beware that your hearts do not become drowsy from carousing and drunkenness and the anxieties of daily life, and that day catch you by surprise like a trap. For that day will assault everyone who lives on the face of the earth. Be vigilant at all times and pray that you have the strength to escape the tribulations that are imminent and to stand before the Son of Man.” ReflectionThe heart is the essence of who we are. It's the place from which God works. It's interesting here, Jesus is talking about a heart that is sleepy, drowsy. It's because of doing things that are only a distraction and also doing things that make us more and more unconscious and therefore anxious. This is the trap. And so what Jesus longs to do is to awaken in our heart not only our true essence, but also His presence that enables us then to be a source of life and light to all around us. Despite any tribulations, any problems that we face. If we believe in who we are and who God is in our hearts, we will always find life and light and hope. Closing PrayerFather, your gift of your dwelling within our hearts is the heart of everything that I long to teach and to share with those who believe. It is the mysterious presence of your power, your ability to resonate through us all that we need to be in every situation, most especially to be a healing presence, a calming presence, a loving presence in the world. Bless us with this awareness. Help us to be strong. And we ask this in Jesus' name, Amen.
The St. Paul Center's daily scripture reflections from the Mass for Saturday of the Thirty-Fourth Week in Ordinary Time by Mr. Clement Harrold. Ordinary Weekday/ Optional Memorial of the Blessed Virgin Mary First Reading: Daniel 7: 15-27 Responsorial Psalm: Daniel 3: 82, 83, 84, 85, 86, 87 Alleluia: Luke 21: 36 Gospel: Luke 21: 34-36 Learn more about the Mass at www.stpaulcenter.com
Pastoral Reflections Finding God In Ourselves by Msgr. Don Fischer
Gospel Luke 21:29-33 Jesus told his disciples a parable. "Consider the fig tree and all the other trees. When their buds burst open, you see for yourselves and know that summer is now near; in the same way, when you see these things happening, know that the Kingdom of God is near. Amen, I say to you, this generation will not pass away until all these things have taken place. Heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will not pass away.” ReflectionThe sign that Jesus longs for His disciples to recognize is a sign that is integral to the spiritual journey. It's called rebirth. Dying and rising, losing and finding. That is in nature, it is also in the very essence of a spiritual journey. All things were being accomplished. That's the will of God. And whatever needs to be accomplished in our life for us or through us will be done. That's the confidence we have, but whenever we lose hope and doubt during the winter, that spring will never come, that's when Jesus says, Remember, remember the sign. And when you see it beginning, have hope and be ready to take on the work that is before you. Closing PrayerFather, there are good times and bad times, and then good times again. And in bad times, it's so often that we find ourselves in this cycle and maybe we're not clear enough, especially if the period of darkness last too long, we can lose hope. But help us to know and to believe in the work that you have so clearly described in your own life. How you would be so successful in one moment and then look as if you were about to be destroyed over and over again. You rose to the occasion and taught the mystery that you long for people to see. Help us to be a part of that growth, that revelation, that beautiful process of dying and rising. And we ask this in Jesus' name, Amen.
The St. Paul Center's daily scripture reflections from the Mass for Friday of the Thirty-Fourth Week in Ordinary Time by Dr. John Bergsma. Ordinary Weekday First Reading: Daniel 7: 2-14 Responsorial Psalm: Daniel 3: 75, 76, 77, 78, 79, 80, 81 Alleluia: Luke 21: 28 Gospel: Luke 21: 29-33 Learn more about the Mass at www.stpaulcenter.com
The St. Paul Center's daily scripture reflections from the Mass for Wednesday of the Thirty-Fourth Week in Ordinary Time by Dr. John Bergsma. Ordinary Weekday First Reading: Daniel 5: 1-6, 13-14, 16-17, 23-28 Responsorial Psalm: Daniel 3: 62, 63, 64, 65, 66, 67 Alleluia: Revelation 2: 10c Gospel: Luke 21: 12-19 Learn more about the Mass at www.stpaulcenter.com
Pastoral Reflections Finding God In Ourselves by Msgr. Don Fischer
Gospel Luke 21:12-19 Jesus said to the crowd: "They will seize and persecute you, they will hand you over to the synagogues and to prisons, and they will have you led before kings and governors because of my name. It will lead to your giving testimony. Remember, you are not to prepare your defense beforehand, for I myself shall give you a wisdom in speaking that all your adversaries will be powerless to resist or refute. You will even be handed over by parents, brothers, relatives, and friends, and they will put some of you to death. You will be hated by all because of my name, but not a hair on your head will be destroyed. By your perseverance you will secure your lives.” ReflectionJesus is talking to His disciples about the thing that was really an integral part of their early ministry, and that was rejection, persecution. And in that time, what Jesus was telling His disciples is to expect this kind of difficulty, but to know deeply within them that nothing, nothing could truly destroy them, and that everything that they needed to be in a moment of persecution, they would receive it in that moment, not ahead of time, not going into every issue, being totally confident of knowing what they're going to say, just knowing that God will be there. That's our confidence. Not having the answer, but knowing that when we need it, God will give it to us. Closing PrayerFather, confidence is not based in our own gifts and our own abilities, but rather in what you promise us. That building on that which we have, that which we've grown into, you will make us even stronger, even clearer, even more precise in terms of how we can witness the truth against those who hate it. And want to destroy it. Give us peace of mind in all of our struggles, and we ask this in Jesus' name, Amen.
The St. Paul Center's daily scripture reflections from the Mass for Wednesday of the Thirty-Fourth Week in Ordinary Time by Dr. John Bergsma. Ordinary Weekday First Reading: Daniel 5: 1-6, 13-14, 16-17, 23-28 Responsorial Psalm: Daniel 3: 62, 63, 64, 65, 66, 67 Alleluia: Revelation 2: 10c Gospel: Luke 21: 12-19 Learn more about the Mass at www.stpaulcenter.com
Pastoral Reflections Finding God In Ourselves by Msgr. Don Fischer
Gospel Luke 21:5-11 While some people were speaking about how the temple was adorned with costly stones and votive offerings, Jesus said, "All that you see here– the days will come when there will not be left a stone upon another stone that will not be thrown down." Then they asked him, "Teacher, when will this happen? And what sign will there be when all these things are about to happen?" He answered, "See that you not be deceived, for many will come in my name, saying, 'I am he,' and 'The time has come.' Do not follow them! When you hear of wars and insurrections, do not be terrified; for such things must happen first, but it will not immediately be the end." Then he said to them, "Nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom. There will be powerful earthquakes, famines, and plagues from place to place; and awesome sights and mighty signs will come from the sky.” ReflectionOne of the roles of a prophet is not only to speak the truth, but to also predict when certain things are going to happen. But Jesus didn't work in that direction very much. He was always wanting people to recognize all kinds of things are going to happen. Some will be very much symbolic, some will be just happenings that are normal to the way the world works. He never wants us to figure out exactly when the end is. He just wants us to live each day at a time, loving, forgiving, healing those around us. That's the focus of his prophetic work. Closing PrayerFather, we have a questioning mind and certainly an understanding heart. So help us to get past all those needs of us figuring out what's next or how everything is going to work or how it should be. Give us that docile understanding heart that accepts all things, grows through all things, learns from all things, and then we become the kingdom that God has us come to establish. And we ask this in Jesus' name, Amen.
The St. Paul Center's daily scripture reflections from the Mass for Tuesday of the Thirty-Fourth Week in Ordinary Time by Dr. Shane Owens. Ordinary Weekday First Reading: Daniel 2: 31-45 Responsorial Psalm: Daniel 3: 57, 58, 59, 60, 61 Alleluia: Revelation 2: 10c Gospel: Luke 21: 5-11 Learn more about the Mass at www.stpaulcenter.com
The St. Paul Center's daily scripture reflections from the Mass for Monday of the Thirty-Fourth Week in Ordinary Time by Dr. Scott Hahn. Ordinary Weekday First Reading: Daniel 1: 1-6, 8-20 Responsorial Psalm: Daniel 3: 52, 53, 54, 55, 56 Alleluia: Matthew 24: 42a, 44 Gospel: Luke 21: 1-4 Learn more about the Mass at www.stpaulcenter.com
Pastoral Reflections Finding God In Ourselves by Msgr. Don Fischer
Gospel Luke 21:1-4 When Jesus looked up he saw some wealthy people putting their offerings into the treasury and he noticed a poor widow putting in two small coins. He said, "I tell you truly, this poor widow put in more than all the rest; for those others have all made offerings from their surplus wealth, but she, from her poverty, has offered her whole livelihood.” ReflectionThe challenge of the gospel is always radical change, a rearranging of things in our head about what's important and what's not important. In this passage, we see that what God is really asking us is to give to Him everything that we have, everything that we are, our very being, our very self, and invite Him to transform that which we offer, offering our livelihood, everything we think makes us valuable, everything that we depend upon to keep us alive. All of that is filtered through this wonderful promise of God. Stop worrying about it. Give it all up. Give it to me and I will take great care of you. Closing PrayerFather, we worry. We have a lot of anxiety over losing that which we feel we cannot live without. Bless us with this deep, abiding confidence that you will not take anything from us or ask anything from us, that will not in return be something that grants us fullness, abundance, and wonder. And we ask this in Jesus' name, Amen.
The St. Paul Center's daily scripture reflections from the Mass for Monday of the Thirty-Fourth Week in Ordinary Time by Dr. Scott Hahn. Ordinary Weekday First Reading: Daniel 1: 1-6, 8-20 Responsorial Psalm: Daniel 3: 52, 53, 54, 55, 56 Alleluia: Matthew 24: 42a, 44 Gospel: Luke 21: 1-4 Learn more about the Mass at www.stpaulcenter.com
Officiant: Fr. Wiley Ammons, Psalm(s): Psalm 145, Laura Ammons, Old Testament: Isaiah 19:19-25, The Rev. Everett C. Lees, New Testament: Romans 15:5-13, Laura Di Panfilo, Gospel: Luke 19:11-27, Mtr. Lisa Meirow. Logo image by Laura Ammons, used by permission.
A Morning at the Office - an Episcopal Morning Prayer Podcast
Officiant: Mtr. Lisa Meirow, Psalm(s): Psalm 118, Fr. Wiley Ammons, Old Testament: Isaiah 19:19-25, The Rev. Everett C. Lees, New Testament: Romans 15:5-13, Laura Di Panfilo, Gospel: Luke 19:11-27, Mtr. Lisa Meirow. Logo image by Antonio Allegretti, used by permission.
Throughout our series, Party Crasher, we're going to explore the 10 parties in the Gospel Luke. Sometimes Jesus is hosting, other times he's attending and yet in each of them, Jesus is crashing expectations, cultural norms, and religion to show us what the gospel looks like.
Proper 29 First Psalm: Psalm 118 Psalm 118 (Listen) His Steadfast Love Endures Forever 118 Oh give thanks to the LORD, for he is good; for his steadfast love endures forever! 2 Let Israel say, “His steadfast love endures forever.”3 Let the house of Aaron say, “His steadfast love endures forever.”4 Let those who fear the LORD say, “His steadfast love endures forever.” 5 Out of my distress I called on the LORD; the LORD answered me and set me free.6 The LORD is on my side; I will not fear. What can man do to me?7 The LORD is on my side as my helper; I shall look in triumph on those who hate me. 8 It is better to take refuge in the LORD than to trust in man.9 It is better to take refuge in the LORD than to trust in princes. 10 All nations surrounded me; in the name of the LORD I cut them off!11 They surrounded me, surrounded me on every side; in the name of the LORD I cut them off!12 They surrounded me like bees; they went out like a fire among thorns; in the name of the LORD I cut them off!13 I was pushed hard,1 so that I was falling, but the LORD helped me. 14 The LORD is my strength and my song; he has become my salvation.15 Glad songs of salvation are in the tents of the righteous: “The right hand of the LORD does valiantly,16 the right hand of the LORD exalts, the right hand of the LORD does valiantly!” 17 I shall not die, but I shall live, and recount the deeds of the LORD.18 The LORD has disciplined me severely, but he has not given me over to death. 19 Open to me the gates of righteousness, that I may enter through them and give thanks to the LORD.20 This is the gate of the LORD; the righteous shall enter through it.21 I thank you that you have answered me and have become my salvation.22 The stone that the builders rejected has become the cornerstone.223 This is the LORD's doing; it is marvelous in our eyes.24 This is the day that the LORD has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it. 25 Save us, we pray, O LORD! O LORD, we pray, give us success! 26 Blessed is he who comes in the name of the LORD! We bless you from the house of the LORD.27 The LORD is God, and he has made his light to shine upon us. Bind the festal sacrifice with cords, up to the horns of the altar! 28 You are my God, and I will give thanks to you; you are my God; I will extol you.29 Oh give thanks to the LORD, for he is good; for his steadfast love endures forever! Footnotes [1] 118:13 Hebrew You (that is, the enemy) pushed me hard [2] 118:22 Hebrew the head of the corner (ESV) Second Psalm: Psalm 145 Psalm 145 (Listen) Great Is the Lord 1 A Song of Praise. Of David. 145 I will extol you, my God and King, and bless your name forever and ever.2 Every day I will bless you and praise your name forever and ever.3 Great is the LORD, and greatly to be praised, and his greatness is unsearchable. 4 One generation shall commend your works to another, and shall declare your mighty acts.5 On the glorious splendor of your majesty, and on your wondrous works, I will meditate.6 They shall speak of the might of your awesome deeds, and I will declare your greatness.7 They shall pour forth the fame of your abundant goodness and shall sing aloud of your righteousness. 8 The LORD is gracious and merciful, slow to anger and abounding in steadfast love.9 The LORD is good to all, and his mercy is over all that he has made. 10 All your works shall give thanks to you, O LORD, and all your saints shall bless you!11 They shall speak of the glory of your kingdom and tell of your power,12 to make known to the children of man your2 mighty deeds, and the glorious splendor of your kingdom.13 Your kingdom is an everlasting kingdom, and your dominion endures throughout all generations. [The LORD is faithful in all his words and kind in all his works.]314 The LORD upholds all who are falling and raises up all who are bowed down.15 The eyes of all look to you, and you give them their food in due season.16 You open your hand; you satisfy the desire of every living thing.17 The LORD is righteous in all his ways and kind in all his works.18 The LORD is near to all who call on him, to all who call on him in truth.19 He fulfills the desire of those who fear him; he also hears their cry and saves them.20 The LORD preserves all who love him, but all the wicked he will destroy. 21 My mouth will speak the praise of the LORD, and let all flesh bless his holy name forever and ever. Footnotes [1] 145:1 This psalm is an acrostic poem, each verse beginning with the successive letters of the Hebrew alphabet [2] 145:12 Hebrew his; also next line [3] 145:13 These two lines are supplied by one Hebrew manuscript, Septuagint, Syriac (compare Dead Sea Scroll) (ESV) Old Testament: Isaiah 19:19–25 Isaiah 19:19–25 (Listen) 19 In that day there will be an altar to the LORD in the midst of the land of Egypt, and a pillar to the LORD at its border. 20 It will be a sign and a witness to the LORD of hosts in the land of Egypt. When they cry to the LORD because of oppressors, he will send them a savior and defender, and deliver them. 21 And the LORD will make himself known to the Egyptians, and the Egyptians will know the LORD in that day and worship with sacrifice and offering, and they will make vows to the LORD and perform them. 22 And the LORD will strike Egypt, striking and healing, and they will return to the LORD, and he will listen to their pleas for mercy and heal them. 23 In that day there will be a highway from Egypt to Assyria, and Assyria will come into Egypt, and Egypt into Assyria, and the Egyptians will worship with the Assyrians. 24 In that day Israel will be the third with Egypt and Assyria, a blessing in the midst of the earth, 25 whom the LORD of hosts has blessed, saying, “Blessed be Egypt my people, and Assyria the work of my hands, and Israel my inheritance.” (ESV) New Testament: Romans 15:5–13 Romans 15:5–13 (Listen) 5 May the God of endurance and encouragement grant you to live in such harmony with one another, in accord with Christ Jesus, 6 that together you may with one voice glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. 7 Therefore welcome one another as Christ has welcomed you, for the glory of God. Christ the Hope of Jews and Gentiles 8 For I tell you that Christ became a servant to the circumcised to show God's truthfulness, in order to confirm the promises given to the patriarchs, 9 and in order that the Gentiles might glorify God for his mercy. As it is written, “Therefore I will praise you among the Gentiles, and sing to your name.” 10 And again it is said, “Rejoice, O Gentiles, with his people.” 11 And again, “Praise the Lord, all you Gentiles, and let all the peoples extol him.” 12 And again Isaiah says, “The root of Jesse will come, even he who arises to rule the Gentiles; in him will the Gentiles hope.” 13 May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that by the power of the Holy Spirit you may abound in hope. (ESV) Gospel: Luke 19:11–27 Luke 19:11–27 (Listen) The Parable of the Ten Minas 11 As they heard these things, he proceeded to tell a parable, because he was near to Jerusalem, and because they supposed that the kingdom of God was to appear immediately. 12 He said therefore, “A nobleman went into a far country to receive for himself a kingdom and then return. 13 Calling ten of his servants,1 he gave them ten minas,2 and said to them, ‘Engage in business until I come.' 14 But his citizens hated him and sent a delegation after him, saying, ‘We do not want this man to reign over us.' 15 When he returned, having received the kingdom, he ordered these servants to whom he had given the money to be called to him, that he might know what they had gained by doing business. 16 The first came before him, saying, ‘Lord, your mina has made ten minas more.' 17 And he said to him, ‘Well done, good servant!3 Because you have been faithful in a very little, you shall have authority over ten cities.' 18 And the second came, saying, ‘Lord, your mina has made five minas.' 19 And he said to him, ‘And you are to be over five cities.' 20 Then another came, saying, ‘Lord, here is your mina, which I kept laid away in a handkerchief; 21 for I was afraid of you, because you are a severe man. You take what you did not deposit, and reap what you did not sow.' 22 He said to him, ‘I will condemn you with your own words, you wicked servant! You knew that I was a severe man, taking what I did not deposit and reaping what I did not sow? 23 Why then did you not put my money in the bank, and at my coming I might have collected it with interest?' 24 And he said to those who stood by, ‘Take the mina from him, and give it to the one who has the ten minas.' 25 And they said to him, ‘Lord, he has ten minas!' 26 ‘I tell you that to everyone who has, more will be given, but from the one who has not, even what he has will be taken away. 27 But as for these enemies of mine, who did not want me to reign over them, bring them here and slaughter them before me.'” Footnotes [1] 19:13 Or bondservants; also verse 15 [2] 19:13 A mina was about three months' wages for a laborer [3] 19:17 Or bondservant; also verse 22 (ESV)
Pastoral Reflections Finding God In Ourselves by Msgr. Don Fischer
Gospel Luke 20:27-40 Some Sadducees, those who deny that there is a resurrection, came forward and put this question to Jesus, saying, "Teacher, Moses wrote for us, If someone's brother dies leaving a wife but no child, his brother must take the wife and raise up descendants for his brother. Now there were seven brothers; the first married a woman but died childless. Then the second and the third married her, and likewise all the seven died childless. Finally the woman also died. Now at the resurrection whose wife will that woman be? For all seven had been married to her." Jesus said to them, "The children of this age marry and remarry; but those who are deemed worthy to attain to the coming age and to the resurrection of the dead neither marry nor are given in marriage. They can no longer die, for they are like angels; and they are the children of God because they are the ones who will rise. That the dead will rise even Moses made known in the passage about the bush, when he called 'Lord' the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob; and he is not God of the dead, but of the living, for to him all are alive." Some of the scribes said in reply, "Teacher, you have answered well." And they no longer dared to ask him anything. Reflection It's always amazing to me that how much of the scriptures that Scribes and Pharisees, Sadducees didn't really understand, and I love Jesus patience with them when He points out very clearly things that they didn't see to prove that there is a answer to the questions they've always been posing to one another. It reminds us always to go back to Scripture over and over again and to seek to find the message of truth that is throughout the books. It is an incredible resource, and we could not live without it. Closing Prayer Father, your wisdom is always beyond our full understanding. But story after story, image after image is consistently presented to us ways of pondering the truth that we're called to live. And when we ponder it with your help, with your insight, with your spirit dwelling in us, we will find the truth more clearly. It motivates us, guides us, and leads us to the fullness of life. And we ask this in Jesus' name, Amen.
The St. Paul Center's daily scripture reflections from the Mass for Saturday of the Thirty-Third Week in Ordinary Time by Mr. Clement Harrold. Ordinary Weekday/ Optional Memorial of the Blessed Virgin Mary/ Catherine of Alexandria, Virgin, Martyr First Reading: First Maccabees 6: 1-13 Responsorial Psalm: Psalms 9: 2-3, 4 and 6, 16 and 19 Alleluia: Second Timothy 1: 10 Gospel: Luke 20: 27-40 Learn more about the Mass at www.stpaulcenter.com
The St. Paul Center's daily scripture reflections from the Mass for Saturday of the Thirty-Third Week in Ordinary Time by Mr. Clement Harrold. Ordinary Weekday/ Optional Memorial of the Blessed Virgin Mary/ Catherine of Alexandria, Virgin, Martyr First Reading: First Maccabees 6: 1-13 Responsorial Psalm: Psalms 9: 2-3, 4 and 6, 16 and 19 Alleluia: Second Timothy 1: 10 Gospel: Luke 20: 27-40 Learn more about the Mass at www.stpaulcenter.com
The St. Paul Center's daily scripture reflections from the Mass for the Memorial of St. Andrew Dung-Lac and Companions by Dr. John Bergsma. Andrew Dung-Lac, Priest, Martyr, & Companions, Martyrs Obligatory Memorial First Reading: First Maccabees 4: 36-37, 52-59 Responsorial Psalm: First Chronicles 29: 10bcd, 11abc, 11d-12a, 12bcd Alleluia: John 10: 27 Gospel: Luke 19: 45-48 Learn more about the Mass at www.stpaulcenter.com
The St. Paul Center's daily scripture reflections from the Mass for the Memorial of St. Andrew Dung-Lac and Companions by Dr. John Bergsma. Andrew Dung-Lac, Priest, Martyr, & Companions, Martyrs Obligatory Memorial First Reading: First Maccabees 4: 36-37, 52-59 Responsorial Psalm: First Chronicles 29: 10bcd, 11abc, 11d-12a, 12bcd Alleluia: John 10: 27 Gospel: Luke 19: 45-48 Learn more about the Mass at www.stpaulcenter.com
Pastor Chris Waldvogel ~ Thanksgiving Eve Service Old Testament: Deuteronomy 8:1-10 Epistle: Philippians 4:6-20 Gospel: Luke 17:11-19 The post November 22, 2023 ~ “Praising God with a Loud Voice” ~ Luke 17:11-19 appeared first on Beautiful Savior Fargo.
The St. Paul Center's daily scripture reflections from the Mass for Thursday of the Thirty-Third Week in Ordinary Time by Ms. Joan Watson. Ordinary Weekday/ Thanksgiving Day/ Clement I, Pope, Martyr/ Columban, Abbot, Missionary/ Blessed Miguel Augustín Pro, Priest, Religious, Martyr/ Ordinary First Reading: First Maccabees 2: 15-29 Responsorial Psalm: Psalms 50: 1b-2, 5-6, 14-15 Alleluia: Psalms 95: 8 Gospel: Luke 19: 41-44 Learn more about the Mass at www.stpaulcenter.com
Fr Joe Krupp talks about the Gospel Luke 19:11, the gift of gratitude and take your questions about family drama at Thanksgiving.Please use the following link if you would like to financially support Church of the Holy Family:https://pushpay.com/g/hfgrandblanc?sr...
The St. Paul Center's daily scripture reflections from the Mass for the Memorial of St. Cecilia by Dr. John Bergsma. Cecilia, Virgin, Martyr Obligatory Memorial First Reading: Second Maccabees 7: 1, 20-31 Responsorial Psalm: Psalms 17: 1bcd, 5-6, 8b and 15 Alleluia: John 15: 16 Gospel: Luke 19: 11-28 Learn more about the Mass at www.stpaulcenter.com
What do you do when it appears that your dream has died? I've got two words for you: Keep walking. Check out the video version of this episode of The Podcast. Some resources to go along with this video: The story I told came from Luke's Gospel—Luke 8:40-56 Here are three related blog posts on how to keep exercising your faith—He who laughs last, The tactics of fear, and When your walking is your praying Here is a bunch of ways to get in touch with me and follow along with other projects on which I am involved ►► Would you please prayerfully consider supporting this ministry? My Patreon supporters get behind-the-scenes access to exclusive materials. ◀︎◀︎
The St. Paul Center's daily scripture reflections from the Mass for the Memorial of St. Cecilia by Dr. John Bergsma. Cecilia, Virgin, Martyr Obligatory Memorial First Reading: Second Maccabees 7: 1, 20-31 Responsorial Psalm: Psalms 17: 1bcd, 5-6, 8b and 15 Alleluia: John 15: 16 Gospel: Luke 19: 11-28 Learn more about the Mass at www.stpaulcenter.com
The St. Paul Center's daily scripture reflections from the Mass for the Memorial of the Presentation of the Blessed Virgin Mary by Dr. Shane Owens. Presentation of the Blessed Virgin Mary Obligatory Memorial First Reading: Second Maccabees 6: 18-31 Responsorial Psalm: Psalms 3: 2-3, 4-5, 6-7 Alleluia: First John 4: 10b Gospel: Luke 19: 1-10 Learn more about the Mass at www.stpaulcenter.com
27 And it came to pass, as he spoke these things, a certain woman from the crowd, lifting up her voice, said to him: Blessed is the womb that bore thee, and the paps that gave thee suck. Factum est autem, cum haec diceret : extollens vocem quaedam mulier de turba dixit illi : Beatus venter qui te portavit, et ubera quae suxisti. 28 But he said: Yea rather, blessed are they who hear the word of God, and keep it. At ille dixit : Quinimmo beati, qui audiunt verbum Dei et custodiunt illud. Truly Mary became the Lady above all creation in her role as the Mother of the Creator. She was born in Joachim's house near the Probatica, and was presented in the temple. Thereupon "planted in the house of God" and nurtured by His Spirit, like a fruitful olive tree she flowered forth in all virtues.
The St. Paul Center's daily scripture reflections from the Mass for the Memorial of the Presentation of the Blessed Virgin Mary by Dr. Shane Owens. Presentation of the Blessed Virgin Mary Obligatory Memorial First Reading: Second Maccabees 6: 18-31 Responsorial Psalm: Psalms 3: 2-3, 4-5, 6-7 Alleluia: First John 4: 10b Gospel: Luke 19: 1-10 Learn more about the Mass at www.stpaulcenter.com
The St. Paul Center's daily scripture reflections from the Mass for Monday of the Thirty-Third Week in Ordinary Time by Dr. Scott Hahn. Ordinary Weekday First Reading: First Maccabees 1: 10-15, 41-43, 54-57, 62-63 Responsorial Psalm: Psalms 119: 53, 61, 134, 150, 155, 158 Alleluia: John 8: 12 Gospel: Luke 18: 35-43 Learn more about the Mass at www.stpaulcenter.com
The St. Paul Center's daily scripture reflections from the Mass for Monday of the Thirty-Third Week in Ordinary Time by Dr. Scott Hahn. Ordinary Weekday First Reading: First Maccabees 1: 10-15, 41-43, 54-57, 62-63 Responsorial Psalm: Psalms 119: 53, 61, 134, 150, 155, 158 Alleluia: John 8: 12 Gospel: Luke 18: 35-43 Learn more about the Mass at www.stpaulcenter.com
And whosoever shall speak a word against the Son of man, it shall be forgiven him: but he that shall speak against the Holy Ghost, it shall not be forgiven him, neither in this world, nor in the world to come.Et quicumque dixerit verbum contra Filium hominis, remittetur ei : qui autem dixerit contra Spiritum Sanctum, non remittetur ei, neque in hoc saeculo, neque in futuro. 33 Either make the tree good and its fruit good: or make the tree evil, and its fruit evil. For by the fruit the tree is known.Aut facite arborem bonam, et fructum ejus bonum : aut facite arborem malam, et fructum ejus malum : siquidem ex fructu arbor agnoscitur. 34 O generation of vipers, how can you speak good things, whereas you are evil? for out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaketh.Progenies viperarum, quomodo potestis bona loqui, cum sitis mali? ex abundantia enim cordis os loquitur. St Felix, of the royal family of France, with St John of Matha founded the Order of Trinitarians for the ransom of captives. He died A.D. 1212.
Officiant: Fr. Wiley Ammons, Psalm(s): Psalm 19, 46, Laura Ammons, Old Testament: 1 Maccabees 2:29-43, 49-50, Jamie Chiles, New Testament: Acts 28:14b-23, David Sibley, Gospel: Luke 16:1-13, Mtr. Lisa Meirow. Logo image by Laura Ammons, used by permission.
A Morning at the Office - an Episcopal Morning Prayer Podcast
Officiant: Mtr. Lisa Meirow, Psalm(s): Psalm 66, 67, Fr. Wiley Ammons, Old Testament: 1 Maccabees 2:29-43, 49-50, Jamie Chiles, New Testament: Acts 28:14b-23, David Sibley, Gospel: Luke 16:1-13, Mtr. Lisa Meirow. Logo image by Antonio Allegretti, used by permission.
Proper 28 First Psalm: Psalms 66–67 Psalms 66–67 (Listen) How Awesome Are Your Deeds To the choirmaster. A Song. A Psalm. 66 Shout for joy to God, all the earth;2 sing the glory of his name; give to him glorious praise!3 Say to God, “How awesome are your deeds! So great is your power that your enemies come cringing to you.4 All the earth worships you and sings praises to you; they sing praises to your name.” Selah 5 Come and see what God has done: he is awesome in his deeds toward the children of man.6 He turned the sea into dry land; they passed through the river on foot. There did we rejoice in him,7 who rules by his might forever, whose eyes keep watch on the nations— let not the rebellious exalt themselves. Selah 8 Bless our God, O peoples; let the sound of his praise be heard,9 who has kept our soul among the living and has not let our feet slip.10 For you, O God, have tested us; you have tried us as silver is tried.11 You brought us into the net; you laid a crushing burden on our backs;12 you let men ride over our heads; we went through fire and through water; yet you have brought us out to a place of abundance. 13 I will come into your house with burnt offerings; I will perform my vows to you,14 that which my lips uttered and my mouth promised when I was in trouble.15 I will offer to you burnt offerings of fattened animals, with the smoke of the sacrifice of rams; I will make an offering of bulls and goats. Selah 16 Come and hear, all you who fear God, and I will tell what he has done for my soul.17 I cried to him with my mouth, and high praise was on1 my tongue.218 If I had cherished iniquity in my heart, the Lord would not have listened.19 But truly God has listened; he has attended to the voice of my prayer. 20 Blessed be God, because he has not rejected my prayer or removed his steadfast love from me! Make Your Face Shine upon Us To the choirmaster: with stringed instruments. A Psalm. A Song. 67 May God be gracious to us and bless us and make his face to shine upon us, Selah2 that your way may be known on earth, your saving power among all nations.3 Let the peoples praise you, O God; let all the peoples praise you! 4 Let the nations be glad and sing for joy, for you judge the peoples with equity and guide the nations upon earth. Selah5 Let the peoples praise you, O God; let all the peoples praise you! 6 The earth has yielded its increase; God, our God, shall bless us.7 God shall bless us; let all the ends of the earth fear him! Footnotes [1] 66:17 Hebrew under [2] 66:17 Or and he was exalted with my tongue (ESV) Second Psalm: Psalm 19; Psalm 46 Psalm 19 (Listen) The Law of the Lord Is Perfect To the choirmaster. A Psalm of David. 19 The heavens declare the glory of God, and the sky above1 proclaims his handiwork.2 Day to day pours out speech, and night to night reveals knowledge.3 There is no speech, nor are there words, whose voice is not heard.4 Their voice2 goes out through all the earth, and their words to the end of the world. In them he has set a tent for the sun,5 which comes out like a bridegroom leaving his chamber, and, like a strong man, runs its course with joy.6 Its rising is from the end of the heavens, and its circuit to the end of them, and there is nothing hidden from its heat. 7 The law of the LORD is perfect,3 reviving the soul; the testimony of the LORD is sure, making wise the simple;8 the precepts of the LORD are right, rejoicing the heart; the commandment of the LORD is pure, enlightening the eyes;9 the fear of the LORD is clean, enduring forever; the rules4 of the LORD are true, and righteous altogether.10 More to be desired are they than gold, even much fine gold; sweeter also than honey and drippings of the honeycomb.11 Moreover, by them is your servant warned; in keeping them there is great reward. 12 Who can discern his errors? Declare me innocent from hidden faults.13 Keep back your servant also from presumptuous sins; let them not have dominion over me! Then I shall be blameless, and innocent of great transgression. 14 Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable in your sight, O LORD, my rock and my redeemer. Footnotes [1] 19:1 Hebrew the expanse; compare Genesis 1:6–8 [2] 19:4 Or Their measuring line [3] 19:7 Or blameless [4] 19:9 Or just decrees (ESV) Psalm 46 (Listen) God Is Our Fortress To the choirmaster. Of the Sons of Korah. According to Alamoth.1 A Song. 46 God is our refuge and strength, a very present2 help in trouble.2 Therefore we will not fear though the earth gives way, though the mountains be moved into the heart of the sea,3 though its waters roar and foam, though the mountains tremble at its swelling. Selah 4 There is a river whose streams make glad the city of God, the holy habitation of the Most High.5 God is in the midst of her; she shall not be moved; God will help her when morning dawns.6 The nations rage, the kingdoms totter; he utters his voice, the earth melts.7 The LORD of hosts is with us; the God of Jacob is our fortress. Selah 8 Come, behold the works of the LORD, how he has brought desolations on the earth.9 He makes wars cease to the end of the earth; he breaks the bow and shatters the spear; he burns the chariots with fire.10 “Be still, and know that I am God. I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth!”11 The LORD of hosts is with us; the God of Jacob is our fortress. Selah Footnotes [1] 46:1 Probably a musical or liturgical term [2] 46:1 Or well proved (ESV) Old Testament: 1 Maccabees 2:29-43, 49-50 New Testament: Acts 28:14–23 Acts 28:14–23 (Listen) 14 There we found brothers1 and were invited to stay with them for seven days. And so we came to Rome. 15 And the brothers there, when they heard about us, came as far as the Forum of Appius and Three Taverns to meet us. On seeing them, Paul thanked God and took courage. 16 And when we came into Rome, Paul was allowed to stay by himself, with the soldier who guarded him. Paul in Rome 17 After three days he called together the local leaders of the Jews, and when they had gathered, he said to them, “Brothers, though I had done nothing against our people or the customs of our fathers, yet I was delivered as a prisoner from Jerusalem into the hands of the Romans. 18 When they had examined me, they wished to set me at liberty, because there was no reason for the death penalty in my case. 19 But because the Jews objected, I was compelled to appeal to Caesar—though I had no charge to bring against my nation. 20 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 wearing this chain.” 21 And they said to him, “We have received no letters from Judea about you, and none of the brothers coming here has reported or spoken any evil about you. 22 But we desire to hear from you what your views are, for with regard to this sect we know that everywhere it is spoken against.” 23 When they had appointed a day for him, they came to him at his lodging in greater numbers. From morning till evening he expounded to them, testifying to the kingdom of God and trying to convince them about Jesus both from the Law of Moses and from the Prophets. Footnotes [1] 28:14 Or brothers and sisters; also verses 15, 21 (ESV) Gospel: Luke 16:1–13 Luke 16:1–13 (Listen) The Parable of the Dishonest Manager 16 He also said to the disciples, “There was a rich man who had a manager, and charges were brought to him that this man was wasting his possessions. 2 And he called him and said to him, ‘What is this that I hear about you? Turn in the account of your management, for you can no longer be manager.' 3 And the manager said to himself, ‘What shall I do, since my master is taking the management away from me? I am not strong enough to dig, and I am ashamed to beg. 4 I have decided what to do, so that when I am removed from management, people may receive me into their houses.' 5 So, summoning his master's debtors one by one, he said to the first, ‘How much do you owe my master?' 6 He said, ‘A hundred measures1 of oil.' He said to him, ‘Take your bill, and sit down quickly and write fifty.' 7 Then he said to another, ‘And how much do you owe?' He said, ‘A hundred measures2 of wheat.' He said to him, ‘Take your bill, and write eighty.' 8 The master commended the dishonest manager for his shrewdness. For the sons of this world3 are more shrewd in dealing with their own generation than the sons of light. 9 And I tell you, make friends for yourselves by means of unrighteous wealth,4 so that when it fails they may receive you into the eternal dwellings. 10 “One who is faithful in a very little is also faithful in much, and one who is dishonest in a very little is also dishonest in much. 11 If then you have not been faithful in the unrighteous wealth, who will entrust to you the true riches? 12 And if you have not been faithful in that which is another's, who will give you that which is your own? 13 No servant can serve two masters, for either he will hate the one and love the other, or he will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve God and money.” Footnotes [1] 16:6 About 875 gallons or 3,200 liters [2] 16:7 Between 1,000 and 1,200 bushels or 37,000 to 45,000 liters [3] 16:8 Greek age [4] 16:9 Greek mammon, a Semitic word for money or possessions; also verse 11; rendered money in verse 13 (ESV)
Throughout our series, Party Crasher, we're going to explore the 10 parties in the Gospel Luke. Sometimes Jesus is hosting, other times he's attending and yet in each of them, Jesus is crashing expectations, cultural norms, and religion to show us what the gospel looks like.
And entering in, he walked through Jericho.Et ingressus perambulabat Jericho. 2 And behold, there was a man named Zacheus, who was the chief of the publicans, and he was rich.Et ecce vir nomine Zachaeus : et hic princeps erat publicanorum, et ipse dives : 3 And he sought to see Jesus who he was, and he could not for the crowd, because he was low of stature.et quaerebat videre Jesum, quis esset : et non poterat prae turba, quia statura pusillus erat. 4 And running before, he climbed up into a sycamore tree, that he might see him; for he was to pass that way.Et praecurrens ascendit in arborem sycomorum ut videret eum : quia inde erat transiturus. 5 And when Jesus was come to the place, looking up, he saw him, and said to him: Zacheus, make haste and come down; for this day I must abide in thy house.Et cum venisset ad locum, suspiciens Jesus vidit illum, et dixit ad eum : Zachaee, festinans descende : quia hodie in domo tua oportet me manere. 6 And he made haste and came down; and received him with joy.Et festinans descendit, et excepit illum gaudens. 7 And when all saw it, they murmured, saying, that he was gone to be a guest with a man that was a sinner.Et cum viderent omnes, murmurabant, dicentes quod ad hominem peccatorem divertisset. 8 But Zacheus standing, said to the Lord: Behold, Lord, the half of my goods I give to the poor; and if I have wronged any man of any thing, I restore him fourfold.Stans autem Zachaeus, dixit ad Dominum : Ecce dimidium bonorum meorum, Domine, do pauperibus : et si quid aliquem defraudavi, reddo quadruplum. 9 Jesus said to him: This day is salvation come to this house, because he also is a son of Abraham.Ait Jesus ad eum : Quia hodie salus domui huic facta est : eo quod et ipse filius sit Abrahae. 10 For the Son of man is come to seek and to save that which was lost.Venit enim Filius hominis quaerere, et salvum facere quod perierat. The two Basilicas, of St Peter on Vatical Hill and of St Paul without the Walls, on the Ostian Way, were erected by Constantine on the site of the martrydom of these Apostles. They were consecrated by St Sylvester on November 18 A.D. 325.
The St. Paul Center's daily scripture reflections from the Mass for Saturday of the Thirty-Second Week in Ordinary Time by Mr. Clement Harrold. Ordinary Weekday/ Optional Memorial of the Blessed Virgin Mary/ Dedication of the Churches of Peter and Paul/ Rose Philippine Duchesne, Virgin, Religious, Missionary/ Ordinary First Reading: Wisdom 18: 14-16; 19: 6-9 Responsorial Psalm: Psalms 105: 2-3, 36-37, 42-43 Alleluia: Second Thessalonians 2: 14 Gospel: Luke 18: 1-8 Learn more about the Mass at www.stpaulcenter.com
The St. Paul Center's daily scripture reflections from the Mass for Saturday of the Thirty-Second Week in Ordinary Time by Mr. Clement Harrold. Ordinary Weekday/ Optional Memorial of the Blessed Virgin Mary/ Dedication of the Churches of Peter and Paul/ Rose Philippine Duchesne, Virgin, Religious, Missionary/ Ordinary First Reading: Wisdom 18: 14-16; 19: 6-9 Responsorial Psalm: Psalms 105: 2-3, 36-37, 42-43 Alleluia: Second Thessalonians 2: 14 Gospel: Luke 18: 1-8 Learn more about the Mass at www.stpaulcenter.com
The St. Paul Center's daily scripture reflections from the Mass for the Memorial of St. Elizabeth of Hungary by Dr. John Bergsma. Elizabeth of Hungary, Married Woman, Religious Obligatory Memorial First Reading: Wisdom 13: 1-9 Responsorial Psalm: Psalms 19: 2-3, 4-5ab Alleluia: Luke 21: 28 Gospel: Luke 17: 26-37 Learn more about the Mass at www.stpaulcenter.com
The St. Paul Center's daily scripture reflections from the Mass for the Memorial of St. Elizabeth of Hungary by Dr. John Bergsma. Elizabeth of Hungary, Married Woman, Religious Obligatory Memorial First Reading: Wisdom 13: 1-9 Responsorial Psalm: Psalms 19: 2-3, 4-5ab Alleluia: Luke 21: 28 Gospel: Luke 17: 26-37 Learn more about the Mass at www.stpaulcenter.com
The St. Paul Center's daily scripture reflections from the Mass for Thursday of the Thirty-Second Week in Ordinary Time by Ms. Joan Watson. Ordinary Weekday/ Margaret of Scotland, Married Woman/ Gertrude the Great, Virgin, Religious First Reading: Wisdom 7: 22b – 8: 1 Responsorial Psalm: Psalms 119: 89, 90, 91, 130, 135, 175 Alleluia: John 15: 5 Gospel: Luke 17: 20-25 Learn more about the Mass at www.stpaulcenter.com
The St. Paul Center's daily scripture reflections from the Mass for Thursday of the Thirty-Second Week in Ordinary Time by Ms. Joan Watson. Ordinary Weekday/ Margaret of Scotland, Married Woman/ Gertrude the Great, Virgin, Religious First Reading: Wisdom 7: 22b – 8: 1 Responsorial Psalm: Psalms 119: 89, 90, 91, 130, 135, 175 Alleluia: John 15: 5 Gospel: Luke 17: 20-25 Learn more about the Mass at www.stpaulcenter.com
The St. Paul Center's daily scripture reflections from the Mass for Wednesday of the Thirty-Second Week in Ordinary Time by Dr. John Bergsma. Ordinary Weekday/ Albert the Great, Bishop, Religious, Doctor First Reading: Wisdom 6: 1-11 Responsorial Psalm: Psalms 82: 3-4, 6-7 Alleluia: First Thessalonians 5: 18 Gospel: Luke 17: 11-19 Learn more about the Mass at www.stpaulcenter.com
The St. Paul Center's daily scripture reflections from the Mass for Wednesday of the Thirty-Second Week in Ordinary Time by Dr. John Bergsma. Ordinary Weekday/ Albert the Great, Bishop, Religious, Doctor First Reading: Wisdom 6: 1-11 Responsorial Psalm: Psalms 82: 3-4, 6-7 Alleluia: First Thessalonians 5: 18 Gospel: Luke 17: 11-19 Learn more about the Mass at www.stpaulcenter.com
The St. Paul Center's daily scripture reflections from the Mass for the Memorial of St. Frances Xavier Cabrini by Dr. Scott Hahn. Frances Xavier Cabrini, Virgin, Religious Obligatory Memorial First Reading: Wisdom 1: 1-7 Responsorial Psalm: Psalms 139: 1b-3, 4-6, 7-8, 9-10 Alleluia: Philippians 2: 15d, 16a Gospel: Luke 17: 1-6 Learn more about the Mass at www.stpaulcenter.com
A Morning at the Office - an Episcopal Morning Prayer Podcast
Officiant: Mtr. Lisa Meirow, Psalm(s): Psalm 93, 96, Fr. Wiley Ammons, Old Testament: Ezra 10:1-17, Josh Edwards, New Testament: Acts 24:10-21, David Sibley, Gospel: Luke 14:12-24, Mtr. Lisa Meirow. Logo image by Antonio Allegretti, used by permission.
The St. Paul Center's daily scripture reflections from the Mass for the Memorial of St. Martin of Tours by Mr. Clement Harrold. Martin of Tours, Bishop Obligatory Memorial First Reading: Romans 16: 3-9, 16, 22-27 Responsorial Psalm: Psalms 145: 2-3, 4-5, 10-11 Alleluia: Second Corinthians 8: 9 Gospel: Luke 16: 9-15 Learn more about the Mass at www.stpaulcenter.com
The St. Paul Center's daily scripture reflections from the Mass for the Memorial of Pope St. Leo the Great by Dr. John Bergsma. Leo the Great, Pope, Doctor Obligatory Memorial First Reading: Romans 15: 14-21 Responsorial Psalm: Psalms 98: 1, 2-3ab, 3cd-4 Alleluia: First John 2: 5 Gospel: Luke 16: 1-8 Learn more about the Mass at www.stpaulcenter.com