Sunday, June 2, 2024

Solemnity of the Most Holy Body and Blood of Christ

(Exodus 24:3-8; Hebrews 9:11-15; Mark 14:22-26)

The great Solemnity of the Most Holy Body and Blood of Christ originated in the Middle Ages to underline the real presence of Jesus Christ in the Eucharist.   It is famous for the procession with the Blessed Sacrament outside church.   The procession not only exposes the Eucharist to everyone but also offers them a free blessing.

The readings we have just heard teach us part of the meaning of the Eucharist.   They show how it has introduced a new era in the history of salvation.   The first reading recounts the making of the Sinai covenant between God and the Israelite people.   It features Moses sprinkling the people with the blood of animals sacrificed to God.   Then Moses spills the same blood on the altar to ratify the alliance with God.   Under the terms of the alliance the people of Israel accept the Law to make them holy.   In turn, God promises to protect Israel and keep her in his affection.

The gospel highlights Jesus at dinner with his disciples creating the new alliance.   Like Moses Jesus offers a sacrifice to God and sheds blood.   In this case, however, he sacrifices himself, not animals.   Likewise, it is his own blood that is drained.   Jesus identifies the bread he breaks with his body which will be crucified the following day. And he says crucially that the wine they drink is his blood that forms a new alliance between God and humans.

In the second reading the author of the Letter to the Hebrews emphasizes how Jesus' new covenant surpasses the old covenant.   First, Jesus received his high priesthood directly from God like Melchizedek, and not by inheritance through the law.   Second, as high priest, Jesus offered his sacrifice in heaven, the true residence of God.   (Although heaven sounds remote, really it is near because it exists wherever God is.) 

Continuing with our comparison, Jesus brought his own blood to the altar of sacrifice which surely surpasses the blood of animals.   Finally, the benefits of Jesus' sacrifice transcend those of Temple sacrifices.   While animal sacrifices could bring about forgiveness of sin, Jesus' sacrifice provides for the reformation of humans.   Now, reconstituted with the Holy Spirit, we are not only forgiven but also strengthened to resist sin and to do works worthy of eternal life. 

The Letter to the Hebrews deserves continuous reading.   It is the unknown author's attempt to convince a group of Jewish converts not to abandon their faith in Christ.   These wavering converts to may be compared to Catholics in many places today who no longer attend mass.   Although they were baptized and confirmed, when asked their religion, they will often say “none.”   Like pagans, they desire pleasures as many pleasures as possible.   They cannot appreciate the supreme value of the Eucharist that unites us in love and keeps us intimate with the Lord.

In two weeks, Americans will celebrate a new holiday known as “Juneteenth Day.” Its history can help us understand the phenomenon that is happening in our time with the Eucharist.   It is called “Juneteenth” day because it was only on June 19, 1865, that the slaves in Texas realized that they had been freed on January 1, 1863. Two and a half years passed without their knowing of their liberation!   Now many Catholics freed from sin by the Body and Blood of Christ do not realize their liberation either.  They are unaware that the path to true happiness is to live close to the Lord Jesus.

Let us hope that we never forget our freedom from sin through the sacrifice of Jesus.   Rather, may we live it by awakening others to its benefits.   Let us begin now with the end of the mass and continue every day of the week, every week of the year, every year of our lives.

Friday, May 31, 2024

The Feast of the Visitation of the Blessed Virgin Mary

(Zephaniah 3:14-18a; Luke 1:39-56)

The term “visitation” gives this gospel episode its due dignity.  Mary’s going to see Elizabeth is not a cordial meeting of two women sharing the experience of pregnancy.  Nor is it, at least in the first instance, a demonstration of Mary’s desire to assist her aged relative in her first and inherently delicate pregnancy.  No, Mary’s journey to the hill country brings the king within her to a significant part of his kingdom. 

Jesus comes to the environs of John, his harbinger.  John duly recognizes Jesus’ kingship by leaping in Elizabeth’s womb.  His action is much like an army at a distant outpost snapping to attention when the president makes a formal visit.  Elizabeth acknowledges Jesus as her Lord.  Mary also proclaims Jesus’ kingly stature when she speaks of God doing something great for her.

We too are given reason to rejoice today.  Our Savior is making himself known in the world.  He will establish for us and for others the way to true and lasting peace.

Thursday, May 30, 2024

Thursday of the Eighth Week in Ordinary time

(I Peter 2:2-5.9-12; Mark 10:46-52)

Addressing himself to non-Jewish Christians in today’s first reading, Peter reminds them of the graces they have received.  They are no longer vulnerable individuals but a strong nation with God as their protector.  Each person of the nation has a priestly status whereby she or he might offer prayers as valid sacrifices. 

The new status of the people carries with it heightened responsibilities.  The people must live as God has directed in the commandments as reinterpreted by Jesus.  What is more, they should offer spiritual sacrifices of self-denial and works of mercy.  In these ways they will be silently preaching salvation in Jesus.

What Peter says to the churches of the first century certainly applies to us today.  We too may be rejected by others for insisting on the right to life and the evil of euthanasia. We too have been called out of the darkness of pursuing convenience into the light of never fading, sacrificial love.

Wednesday, May 9, 2024

 Wednesday of the Eighth Week in Ordinary Time

 (I Peter 1:18-25; Mark 10:32-45)

 With so much emphasis on sex today one might think of it as a wholly contemporary concern.  In truth, however, extramarital sex has always worried people.  What is new is its widespread social acceptance.  Few today stand up to condemn premarital sex.  Of course, catechisms call it sinful, but often preachers steer clear of the subject to not offend Church members in unlawful relationships. The New Testament letters testify that licentiousness troubled decent people of the first century and see Christ as leading the people out of the morass.

 Today’s reading from the First Letter of Peter typically exhorts the people to “love…from a pure heart.”  It reminds them that “’all flesh is like grass’” that withers.  Therefore, they are to place their hope in God and not surrender themselves to debauchery. 

 Youth may respond to the argument of coherency.  After all, they have a sense of justice even if not fully developed.  Coherency requires congruence between what one says and does.  The argument goes like this.  Sexual intercourse is the most intimate way to demonstrate one’s love for another.  Therefore, it should be accompanied by the giving of oneself in a permanent union.  In anything short of a permanent union, the act becomes a lie as sure as Brutus’ profession of love for Caesar.

Tuesday, May 28, 2024

Tuesday of the Eighth Week in Ordinary Time

(I Peter 1:10-16; Mark 10:28-31)

It is said that the First Letter of Peter once was as well-considered as St. Paul’s epistles.  However, in modern times its importance has waned.  The principal reason for reason its waning stature is the questioning of its attribution to Peter, Christ’s lead apostle.  Its polished Greek and its addressees -- Greek churches in Asia Minor – indicate that the apostle Peter was not its genuine author.

Still the message of the letter addresses the needs of Christians in the latter half of the first century.  It teaches Judeo-Christian mores to peoples who have not long believed in the one God.  It also urges perseverance in suffering, a reality for many if not most Christians in the latter first century.

First Peter, as the letter is often called, inspires as well as instructs.  Its opening section telling of the “new birth to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ” moves Christians across the centuries.  We have a new way of living which will crescendo in unimaginable blessing if we stay the course.

Monday, May 27, 2024

Monday of the Eighth Week in Ordinary Time

(I Peter 1:3-9; Mark 10:17-27)

The disciples are amazed at Jesus’ statement that it is hard for the rich to enter the Kingdom of God.  It is likely that there were many pious rich people in gospel times to give the disciples pause.  Yet in every age the rich are tempted to think that they do not need God.  Having comforts and conveniences, they may forget that only God provides happiness that lasts forever.

Today many from the middle and upper classes see gender as a personal choice and sexual license as the norm.  These trends do not correspond to traditional Church teaching, and those who cling to them are risking entry into the Kingdom of God.  Such ideas may be still hard to resist when not only movie stars but also politicians endorse them.

More than ever, we need to know and understand Catholic moral teachings.  They will lead us away from counterfeits and onto the road of eternal happiness.

Sunday, May 26, 2024

SOLEMNITY OF THE MOST HOLY TRINITY

(Deuteronomy 4:31-34,39-40; Romans 8:14-17; Matthew 28:16-20)

Many preachers don't like to preach today. They say something like: “How can I explain the Holy Trinity to others? It's as complicated as teaching Einstein's relativity." This statement is curious because, according to theologians, God is above all simple.

When the theologians say that God is simple, they mean, in the first place, that He has no parts. As a spiritual being, God has no extensions like legs, a mouth, or a brain that mighty be described as tall, fat, dark, or any other quality. But God's simplicity goes beyond being spiritual. God was never created so that He could be called either old or young. Likewise, he has never been dependent on anything or anyone so that it might be said that He has lacked something.  Nor has He changed so that it might be said that He has improved or diminished.

Yes, we can say that God is true, loving, wise, etc., but not in the sense that God has the characteristics of truth, love, wisdom, etc., like we may have; that is, up to a certain point. Rather because God is simple, He must be truth, love, wisdom, etc., in themselves.  This means that God is the basis of truth, love, wisdom, and all other qualities, including existence. In other words, if it were not for the presence of God to it, nothing can have truth, love, wisdom, or even existence.

The First Letter of John tells us, “God is love.”  The phrase itself indicates why the One God may be likened to three persons.  To achieve love, three things are necessary. There must be a lover, a loved one, and a relationship between the two. We usually identify God the Father as the lover and God the Son as the beloved although we can say with equal validity that the Son loves the Father. Anyway, the relationship between these two is God Holy Spirit. Although God is perfectly content with this mutual love, He wanted to share it with humans. We not only exist because God loves us, but we have the Holy Spirit to love like God. We can sacrifice what is precious to us, even our lives, for the good of another.

There was a young woman who did exactly that. After graduating from college she dedicated six years as a missionary bringing the faith to other college students. She was filled with the Holy Spirit, always welcoming newcomers at assemblies and spending most of her time with those who seemed in need of a friend. At the age of thirty she was diagnosed with ovarian cancer and died a year later. Two months before her death, the young woman wrote a letter to Jesus. She told him: “Jesus, not only do I want to be a saint, but I want to be a great saint who brings others to you -- of course for your greater honor and glory!”

The Church has declared this young woman a “Servant of God.” She is on her way to being recognized as a saint. For us she serves as a model and a sign. We should also love others by trying to bring them to God. Furthermore, she shows us how true love is not exclusive but, as in the Holy Trinity, solicitous of others.

Friday, May 24, 2024

Friday of the Seventh Week in Ordinary Time

(James 5:9-12; Mark 10:1-12)

Martin Luther called the Letter of James an “epistle of straw.”  More recent critics of the letter do not find many direct references to Jesus in it.  Indeed, the letter mentions Jesus by name only twice.  However, there are many parallels between its contents and statements of Jesus in Matthew’s gospel.

In today’s passage James tells his readers not to complain so that they will not be judged.  In Matthew Jesus says to his disciples: “Do not be judged that you may not be judged.” Likewise, Jesus tells his disciples: “Do not swear at all, neither by heaven … nor by earth … Let you word be, ‘Yes, yes,’ ‘No, no.’” James is very similar here: “… do not swear, either by heaven or by earth or with any other oath,
but let your ‘Yes’ mean ‘yes’ and your ‘No’ mean ‘No.’"

Part of Jesus’ salvation is his legacy of prophetic teaching.  James continues this endeavor and even surpasses Jesus’ call to social justice in some respects.  For both, treating one’s neighbor justly is a required response to God’s offer of forgiveness. 

Thursday, May 23, 2024

Thursday of the Seventh Week in Ordinary Time

(James 5:1-6; Mark 9:41-50)

“Salted with fire” describes the Holy Spirit having penetrated the hearts of the faithful.  Those “salted with fire” are ready to use the gifts of the Spirit for the good of others.  For example, last year evangelist Amy Welborn applied the Spirit’s wisdom to see significant value in a poplar motion picture.

When the movie “Barbie” was making its debut, many were ready to dismiss the film as Hollywood trash.  Ms. Welborn took time to see the film and review it for her many readers.  She found the movie to be a critique of the feminist movement which has not brought true liberation to women as advertised.  Instead, it has left many women desolate without a caring life partner or children.

“Salted with fire” on Pentecost, we should ask ourselves how we might better care for others.  We should not discount prayer as one proven way.  We might also investigate the possibility of regularly visiting the lonely or tutoring needy children.

Wednesday, May 22, 2024

Wednesday of the Seventh Week in Ordinary Time

(James 4: 13-17; Mark 9:38-40)

For many years the church has promoted Catholics collaborating with other Christian groups on social projects.  The combined efforts have brought more and better assistance to those in need.  They also have advanced ecumenism creating a desire for reunion with peoples of different communities of faith.

In today’s gospel, Jesus promotes social ecumenism.  Whereas John would stop someone not of Jesus’ company to cast out demons in his name, Jesus welcomes the initiative.  Perhaps he intuits that John’s restriction may be motivated by jealousy.  A passage before this one shows the disciples unable to cast out an epileptic demon.

We do well to question our motives when we refuse to support non-Catholics in their social ministries.  They often do work worthy of our support.  The Friends’ (Quakers’) peace lobby and the Lutheran “Global Refuge” have for years provided excellent service.

Tuesday, May 21, 2024

Tuesday of the Seventh Week in ordinary Time

(James 4:1-10; Mark 9:30-37)

Jesus’ “journey through Galilee” will end in Jerusalem.  There he will be handed over by Jewish leaders to the Roman authorities who will kill him.  Jesus predicts this fate, but his disciples do not understand what he is saying.

They are preoccupied with the question of their own greatness.  If they were great, they would not be so fearful as to leave Jesus’ self-revelation unqueried.  Rather, like James scolds his listeners in today’s first reading, they follow their prideful instincts.

Of course, the disciples have not yet received the Holy Spirit.  He will give them both humility and confidence.  Like to them, the Spirit has come to us so that we might “renew the face of the earth” with his love.

Monday, May 20, 2024

Memorial of the Blessed Virgin Mary, Mother of the Church

(Acts 1:12-14; John 19:25-34)

Pope Francis introduced today’s celebration just six years ago.  Obviously, he wanted to emphasize the association of Mary, the mother of Jesus, with the church Jesus founded.  Both Scripture readings attest to this.

The first reading pictures the eleven apostles of Jesus remaining after Jesus’ Ascension along with his mother. It implies that Mary was present when the Spirit descended upon the disciples to set the Church in motion.  The gospel shows Mary at the foot of the cross with the beloved disciple and other women.  Jesus then hands over his Holy Spirit to his faithful followers – a kind of Pentecost initiating the community of disciples.

The Holy Father insists on the key role of Mary in the Church.  She does not merely give Christ a human nature.  More significantly, Mary’s presence at the death of Jesus and the coming of the Spirit indicates her role in the project he initiated.  She epitomizes the caring outreach of the Church, the role of the Church as intercessor for sinners, and a central place of women in its makeup.

Sunday, May 19, 2024

Pentecost Sunday

(Acts 2:1-11; Galatians 5:16-25; John 15:16-17.16:12-15)

Today we celebrate the descent of the Holy Spirit on the disciples of Jesus. Certainly of the three persons of the one God, the Spirit is the least appreciated. However, the Church affirms that the Spirit has equal dignity with the Father and the Son. To know him better, let's turn to what the Scriptures say about him. We will use the readings from today's masses and from yesterday's vigil.

The first reading of the vigil is from Genesis. It tells how God confused human languages when men were trying to build a tower that would reach heaven. At Pentecost the Spirit superimposes itself on the many languages being spoken in Jerusalem that day by pilgrims from all over the Mediterranean world so that all might understand the disciples' proclamation.

The second reading is from Exodus. It talks about the alliance that God made with the Israelites at Sinai. God descended on the mountain with fire and smoke to seal his covenant. The descent of the Spirit with tongues of fire resembles this act of confirmation. The Holy Spirit seals the New Covenant between God and the community of Jesus’ disciples. Those baptized in the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit will receive forgiveness of their sins and the destiny of eternal life.

The third reading comes from the prophet Ezekiel. It tells of God reviving the dry bones with a new spirit that puts nerves, flesh, and skin into them. This act refers to Christ's promise to resurrect the remains of believers at the end of time. Also, it foreshadows the Holy Spirit renewing the disciples with his gifts: wisdom, understanding, counsel, knowledge, strength, piety, and fear of God.

The fourth reading from the prophet Joel tells how the spirit of God will be poured out on the people on the “Day of the Lord.” He will inspire them to imagine a just society and strengthen you to proclaim their vision to the world.

Yesterday's epistle of the Letter to the Romans deals with the Spirit helping the Christian community to pray. Through the Spirit the disciples do not ask the Father for superficial things but for the resources to endure the setbacks in life until the Kingdom comes. The gospel continues along this line.  It tells of Jesus inviting those thirsting for righteousness that they will receive it with the Spirit.

Today's masses give the priest celebrant several options for readings. In all of them the work of the Spirit is manifested. The First Letter to the Corinthians reports that the grace of the Spirit is necessary to believe in Jesus as Lord. It adds that believers have different gifts or talents. Together they make up the Body of Christ which is present to the world to achieve the common good.

An alternative reading from the Letter to the Galatians proclaims that the Spirit overcomes the reign of selfishness in individual lives. It replaces the vices of lust, anger, and envy with the virtues of self-control, meekness, and kindness.

One option for the gospel shows Jesus endowing his apostles with the Holy Spirit so that they might reconcile sinners to God. In the other Jesus presents the Holy Spirit as the “Spirit of truth” who strengthens the apostles when they preach their victory over sin and death.

What might we say in summary of the Holy Spirit?  We can say that the Holy Spirit is God who comes to us to help us live as disciples of Jesus Christ. He is the love that unifies us with one another in the Body of Christ. He is also the benefactor who enables us resist vices and practice virtues. He is the inspiration that moves us to speak with others about Jesus Christ. Finally, the Spirit is the source of new life that purifies us today from sins and on the final day will reconstitute our bodies to enjoy eternal life.

Friday, May 17, 2024

Friday of the Seventh Week of Easter

(Acts 25:13b-21; John 21:15-19)

Fishermen love their sport more than most other things. When they arrive at the water, they take off their watches.  For fishermen a successful day fishing is not one in which they catch many fish but just one spent on the water.  Because of the unique absorption of fishermen with their occupation, Jesus gauges Peter’s capacity for leadership with a question regarding his preference for him over fishing.

Peter is not only a fisherman by trade but a fisher of men and women by religious profession.  Now Jesus wants him to undertake a new role.  He is to be the shepherd of his flock; that is, he will oversee the care of the community of believers.  Before he confers on him the ministry, he tests Peter with a question.  He asks Peter if he loves him “more than these.”  Some think that “these” refers to the other disciples in the sense that Peter loves Jesus more than the other disciples do.  But it is more likely that “these” refers to the accoutrements of fishing.  When Peter assures Jesus of his predilection of him to nets, boats, lines and hooks, Jesus puts him in charge of the Christian community.

Pope Francis seems to be a worthy successor of Peter.  His love for the Lord and his flock is palpable.  Although this generation has been blessed with other gracious popes, Francis has shown a unique capacity to care for all people.  As much as the Church is mother of all peoples populating the planet, Francis has exhibited the desire to touch them with God’s mercy.

 

Thursday, May 16, 2024

Thursday of the Seventh Week of Easter

(Acts 22:30.23:6-11; John 17:20-26)

Fr. Richard Gula is a moral theologian who wrote a book he called The Good Life.  It is not about fancy restaurants or comfort resorts.  Rather The Good Life describes the moral virtues that are found in a person who recognizes that she or he is loved by God and, in response, loves God and all His creatures.

Fr. Gula describes two virtues as fundamental to the good life – humility and gratitude.  Both these virtues are at the heart of Jesus’ “priestly prayer “of which we hear part in today’s gospel.  Humility accepts, affirms, and celebrates who one is.  Jesus does just this as he recognizes that his Father has bestowed upon him glory.  Gratitude acknowledges one’s gifts by sharing them with others.  So Jesus prays that his disciples may know the love with which the Father has loved him.

Jesus’ priestly prayer summarizes his work on earth, the purpose of his becoming human and undergoing the great Paschal mystery.  He has given us a model to emulate.  We begin by practicing humility and gratitude daily.

Wednesday, May 15, 2024

Wednesday of the Seventh Week of Easter

(Acts 20:28-38; John 17:11b-19)

Today’s first reading will attract the interest of biblical students.  In one passage the leaders of the church of Miletus are called both presbyters (presbyterous) and bishops (episkopous).  Evidently, these terms were used interchangeably in the early Church.  Later they had more definite meanings.

Another notable aspect of the reading is Paul’s concern that false preachers may steal members of the community.  Just as today, upstarts claimed that they had the true teaching to be followed.  Paul would criticize them for not following the teaching which the apostles handed down from Jesus.

But most prominent in the reading is the love exhibited among Paul and his visitors.  The way they cried and hugged one another testifies that the Church is above all a community of love in truth.  If we do not love, Paul has written to the Corinthians, we are but clanging cymbals.

Tuesday, May 14, 2024

Feast of Saint Matthias, apostle

(Acts 1:15-17.20-26; John 15:9-17)

The name Matthias has the same origin as the name Matthew.  It is derived from the Hebrew word Matityahu meaning “gift of God.” St. Matthias was a gift of God in a number of ways.  Most importantly, he preached the goods news of salvation from sin and death through faith in Jesus.

Matthias was selected specifically for this work not randomly but through a discernment process. As the first reading relates, the apostles took care to nominate two good men.  Then they left the final choice to the Lord by praying and accepting the outcome of a random procedure.

The selection of Matthias shows the early Church in operation.  It is directed by Peter, named by Jesus as head of the Church.  It also follows Jesus’ example of twelve leaders forming the bedrock of the community. 

Sometimes we hear that Paul or the apostles themselves founded the Church, not Jesus.  Of course, Jesus most likely did not have a blueprint of the Vatican in his design. But he certainly spent time with his disciples explicating some plans for the community he was leaving behind.  We need not question the authenticity of the Church.  We should, like the apostles, discern and pray how we might best carry out its directives. 

Monday, May 12, 2024

Monday of the Seventh Week of Easter

(Acts 19:1-8; John 16:29-33)

The disciples’ testimony that they “never even heard of the Holy Spirit” approximates the situation of many Christians today.  All likely have heard of the Spirit but many have not experienced His transforming power.  Their faith lacks the joy, peace, and love characteristic of the Spirit’s presence.

The Spirit comes to us in Baptism and is reinforced by the other sacraments, especially Confirmation.  He is often activated by a robust community.  Once this happens, the Christian not only exhibits divine qualities but also catalyzes those qualities in others.  On the other hand, the Spirit might be muted by an environment with little feeling and wonder. 

This Sunday, the Solemnity of Pentecost, the Church celebrates the Holy Spirit.  Many Christians are preparing for the festivity by a novena calling for the Spirit to manifest himself.  We should join the preparation, if only in a humble way.  Praying every day “Come, Holy Spirit, fill the hearts of your faithful and kindle in them the fire of your love” will wake us to the Spirit’s presence and open us to his transforming power.

Sunday, May 12, 2024

ASCENSION OF THE LORD

(Acts 1:1-11; Ephesians 1:17-23; Mark 16:15-20)

Today we celebrate the solemnity of the Ascension of the Lord. It is one of the most important festivals on the liturgical calendar. Perhaps some have not thought this way since the Church has changed the day of celebration. Where it was on Thursday, the fortieth day after the resurrection, the Ascension is now celebrated mostly on the Sunday after. But the change was made precisely to facilitate people's attendance at mass where they could reflect on the meaning of that great festival.

The meaning is more than the Lord leaving his disciples to ascend to heaven. It has to do with his and our exaltation with the Father. A human being has reached the peak of all existence. Because the Son of God has a human nature, every human united with him is exalted and glorified with him. Thus, the Ascension forms an integral part of the salvation Jesus won for us.

If you have difficulty understanding what I am trying to explain, you can consider this comparison. The effect of Jesus' exaltation can be compared to the acceptance of the first black man into the major leagues. Once Jackie Robinson was accepted by the Brooklyn Dodgers, many other blacks could play baseball in colossal stadiums and with rich contracts. One difference, however: to play in the major leagues, one must have a lot of talent. To be with Jesus Christ in heaven, one only must be faithful to him.

Saint Paul helps us understand the dynamics of this great step forward for humanity. In the Letter to the Romans he calls Christ the new Adam. As men inherited sin and death from the first Adam, from Christ they inherit the glory of being children of God and life with him forever.

The Gospel according to Saint John shows us another facet of the Ascension. We remember how at the Last Supper Jesus said that it is better for him to go to the Father. It is better because after being glorified he will have his place at the right hand of the Father from where he can send the Holy Spirit to his disciples. Jesus takes into account in this passage not only the twelve but the entire world. As a man limited in his reach, Jesus could not reach every baptized person. But the Spirit has no limits. It can reach all continents to guide every person.

With such great help we ask ourselves, why do men mistreat one another? This pathetic war between the Israelis and the Palestinians is just the most recent instance of social hatred. The coincidence with which many women abort their babies is also alarming. They say that now in some parts half of all pregnancies end in abortions.

Perhaps the reason behind so many atrocities is that the wants of the self are strong particularly when amplified by the tyranny of the many. Thank God we have the saints to show that it is possible to resist them. Because today is Mother's Day, we can mention several mothers who have lived out their commitment to Christ. Probably the most famous mother in this sense besides Mary is Monica, the mother of Saint Augustine. She wanted nothing more out of life than to see her son baptized as a Christian and she prayed for this continually. Saint Perpetua was a young Christian mother from North Africa in the third century. She suffered martyrdom because she would not worship Roman gods. Closer to our time, the American Saint Elizabeth Seton was the mother of five children. When her husband died, Elizabeth became first a Catholic and then a nun. In time she founded a women's congregation and many schools and charities.

These women loved God more than themselves and loved their neighbors as much as themselves. Maybe our mothers in their own ways did similarly. At least in many cases they raised us in the faith. This alone is reason enough to honor them today.

Friday, May 10, 2024

Friday of the Sixth Week of Easter

(Acts 18:9-18; John 16:20-23)

Today’s gospel reminds us of the trauma of giving birth.  Prolife advocates must be sensitive to what they are asking of pregnant women.  Although there is no legitimate defense for a direct abortion, giving birth to a child requires great patience.

Jesus compares the difficulty of giving birth to the challenge of following him.  It is as true today as ever.  Schoolboys will mock their classmates who refuse to look at pornography.  A large part of society will frown in disapproval on large families.  We may even become irritated with ourselves for passing by an opportunity to take a holiday because of a standing commitment to take Communion to the sick.  Do not fret -- Jesus is telling both ancient and contemporary disciples – he will more than compensates for any sacrifices for his sake.

He is offering more than promises for the future.  He gives all his disciples the assurance of the Father’s ongoing attention.  Like having a service guarantee on a new computer, he says the Father will provide if anything goes wrong.

Thursday, May 9. 2024

Thursday of the Sixth Week of Easter

(Acts 18:1-8; John 16:16-20)

Jesus’ reference to “a little while and you will not see me, and again a little while and you will see me” refers, of course, to his death and resurrection.  Jesus will be buried for two days and nights during which he cannot be seen.  On the third day, he will be raised from the dead and will show himself that evening to his disciples. 

During his burial, the disciples did indeed grieve. They not only lost a teacher, but also one who loved them so much that he called them his friends.  The grieving turned to joy when they experienced him alive.  Jesus not only talked with his friends again but gave them the Holy Spirit so that they may have life in abundance.

As followers of Christ, we sometimes must make hard choices that cause us to grieve over lost opportunity.  Girls who become pregnant may have to give up a year of college to have their baby.  Boys may find themselves alone after their parents tell them to leave up the tough crowd they were following.  Such sacrifices should be embraced, not abhorred.  They make us better people and closer to Christ.  He will greatly reward us for any hardship we endure.

Wednesday, May 8, 2024

Wednesday of the Sixth Week of Easter

(Acts 17:15.22-18:1; John 16:12-15)

In today’s reading from Acts St. Paul observes that people have an innate sense for religion.  This is borne out by the many inquiries at parish offices about becoming Catholic.  The callers may say that they feel something missing in their lives.  Or perhaps they have an exemplary friend who is Catholic.

But relatively few inquirers join parish catechumenates.  The no-showers will have different excuses.  Whatever their reason, it is regrettable.  They are allowing something to keep them from the most important action humans make in life – to give due thanks to God.

If we know people who express interest in joining the church, we might do more than pray for them or encourage them.  We might offer to take them to catechumenate meetings and stay with them throughout the sessions.  Very likely, we will find the Spirit revealing to us more truth as Jesus promises in the gospel.

Tuesday, May 7, 2024

 Tuesday of the Sixth Week of Easter

 (Acts 16:22-34; John 16:5-11)

 Some wonder why the Church does not use the word ghost in referring to the third person of the Holy Trinity.  A hundred years ago it was used in the standard translation of the Latin Spiritus Sanctus. Now the translation is made almost exclusively by Holy Spirit.  Ghost and spirit have very similar original meanings – vigor, breath, soul, etc.  In recent times, however, ghost has become more associated with the disembodied soul of a dead person or a demonic being.  Spirit, on the other hand, retains the fuller range of meanings that are helpful in understanding today’s readings.

 The earthquake freeing St. Paul and Silas should not be thought of as a random act of nature.  It clearly represents the work of the Holy Spirit.  The same Spirit is said to have filled the disciples as they prayed and the earth shook earlier in Acts (4:31).  Jesus promises to send the Spirit in today’s gospel with earth-shaking results.  The Spirit will show the world wrong on three counts.  The world refuses believe in God’s Son.  It fails to see that the Son practiced true righteousness. And it does not notice that the real enemy, the devil, is now cast out, at least for those associated with Jesus.

We all need help to live in the world with a modicum of peace.  The help we need above all, however, is the grace of the Holy Spirit.  The Spirit fills us with a sense of gratitude for all God has done for us.  More than that, the Spirit moves us to love others with acts of kindness.  The Spirit shakes our foundations to think less of ourselves and more of God.

Monday, May 6, 2024

Monday of the Sixth Week of Easter

(Acts 16:11-15; John 15:26-16:4a)

For a generation after Jesus’ death and resurrection, his followers worshipped along with Jews in local synagogues and the Jerusalem Temple.  Like their fellow worshippers, they were immune to Roman law that had everyone worship the Roman gods.  Then Judaism experienced a crisis.  The Roman army responded to a Jewish rebellion by destroying the Temple.  The rabbis had to reform Judaism giving greater emphasis to studying the Law.  They also disassociated themselves from those who claimed Jesus as the Messiah.

Left unprotected from the Roman law to worship their gods, Christians were persecuted by both Jews and Romans.  Needing help, they found it in Jesus’ promise in today’s gospel to send an Advocate who would demonstrate to the world that Jesus was truly God’s Son.  Christians came to understood that they need not fear desolation.  Christ’s Spirit, the Advocate, was with them to withstand the persecution.

The Holy Spirit remains with us today. We must take courage in this fact and turn to him with our needs.  Where we are being persecuted, we need to speak up with the truth.  Where there is doubt about procedure such as how to justly recognize women in the church, we should turn to the Spirit with confidence.  We need not fret that Jesus is not among us.  He has sent his Spirit in his place.

Sunday, May 5, 2024

SIXTH SUNDAY OF EASTER, May 5, 2024

(Acts 10:25-26,34-35,44-48; I John 4:7-10; John 15:9-17)

The gospel and the second reading today touch on a central theme of our faith. We believe that God created us out of love and wants us to love around Him and others. But in the world love is often talked about in unedifying ways. Therefore, it is worth asking: what kind of love does God want from us? And how can we distinguish it from unworthy kinds of love?

We can begin with the first reading of the Acts of the apostles. Peter baptizes the non-Jews when he sees them showing the effects of the Holy Spirit. On this occasion the Spirit moves the house of Cornelius to speak in unknown tongues proclaiming the greatness of God. As revealing as this display of the Spirit is, its effects are most often seen in sacrificial love. Saint Paul says in his First Letter to the Corinthians that sacrificial love is more perfect than any other endowment of the Holy Spirit.

In the gospel Jesus gives an account of this sacrificial love. He is with disciples having dinner for the last time before his death. He has just washed his feet, and now he is in the middle of explaining the meaning of this surprising action. He says that he did it with the same love with which the Father loves him. He has placed his disciples on the same level that he occupies. They are no longer servants; from now on they are his friends. As people close to him, Jesus will give his life for them. In response to this love, he asks them to be ready to do the same for him and for each other.

Through Baptism we are included in this circle of friends of Jesus. He died on the cross so that we may have freedom from sin and the destiny of eternal life. As heirs of these gifts, we are also obligated to perform such acts of sacrificial love. We see this love in the heroic acts of the saints. Saint Maximilian Kolbe, a Franciscan, gave his life to save that of a father in a concentration camp during World War II. After the Nazis chose the man as a scapegoat, the saint offered his life in his place. Saint Gianna Beretta Molla chose to risk her own life to save the child in her womb infected by a fibroid. As a result, she gave birth to her fourth child, but she died from complications contracted when she had the fibroid removed.

Sacrificial love is also found in charitable acts done every day. Saint Paul describes these acts to the Corinthians with a particular finesse: “Love is patient, love is kind. It is not jealous, (love) is not pompous, it is not inflated, it is not rude, it does not seek its own interests, it is not quick-tempered, it does not brood over injury…” (I Cor 13:4-5). Those parish members who visit prisons, hospitals, and nursing homes in nursing homes demonstrate this kind of love.

There is another type of love much talked about. It is inferior to sacrificial love because it seeks illicit pleasure, not the true good of his beloved. Illicit pleasure refers to the union of unmarried couples. Although society no longer censors this type of love, it offends God's plan. As the first book of the Bible describes, God created man and woman to become one flesh and thus multiply, subdue the earth and take care of it. When a person ignores God's will, he not only breaks a commandment but also involves his partner in sin.

God strengthens us with his Spirit so that we love in truth. The Spirit is ours simply for the asking. When we ask for specific things, we don't always receive them because God has something else in mind for us. But he will never deprive us of the Holy Spirit precisely because the spirit enables us to love in the best sense.

Friday, May 3, 2024

Feast of Saints Philip and James, apostles

(I Corinthians 15:1-8; John 14:6-14)

Saul, the first king of Israel, was recognized for his good looks.  He is introduced in the Bible in this way: “There was no Israelite handsomer than Saul; he stood head and shoulders above the people” (I Sam 9:2b).  One commentator says that his demeanor was what most recommended him to be king.  In contrast, nothing is said in Scripture of how Jesus looked.  Nothing.  Yet he tells Philip in today’s gospel that anyone who sees him, sees God the Father.

 Philip is asking for a theophany.  He wants an experience of God like Moses had at the burning bush.  He expects to see something that would be called “awesome” today.  Jesus corrects his largely mistaken notion that the experience of God is always earth-shaking.  When he identifies seeing the Father with seeing himself, he has his self-sacrificing love in mind.  Jesus preaches, teaches, and most of all lives this love.  That is what his Father, as well, is all about.

Philip is no slower learner than we are.  We too often look for a revelation of God in fantastic ways.  The truth is that God reveals Himself to us daily.  He appears every time someone goes out of her way to help another.  When we perform such acts, we become His angels.

Thursday, May 2, 2024

Memorial of Saint Athanasius, Bishop and Doctor of the Church

(Acts 15:7-21; John 15:9-11)

Today the Church celebrates another saint of enormous proportions.  Saint Athanasius deserves attention for being a creative theologian.  He developed the insight of Christ’s having a divine nature together with the Father and the Holy Spirit.  This complemented Christ’s human nature.  Inasmuch as Christ has existed from all eternity in the Trinity, it is said that he is a divine person with two natures.

Athanasius was also a popular writer.  His classic biography of the desert monk, St. Anthony, was a kind of bestseller in the days of pen and papyrus.  The book not only made Anthony famous but also a model of saintly perfection.

Finally, Athanasius had the privilege of suffering for Jesus.  His Arian enemies, who believed that Christ did not share the same divinity as the Father, continually harassed him.  For a hefty portion of his long career as bishop of Alexandria he lived in exile.  No doubt he found in his trials a way to draw close to the Lord who died on the cross.