St. Andrew the Apostle RCIA

Thrd Sunday of Ordinary Time

2012-01-19T16:46:00.000-05:00

Here are the readings for the Third Sunday of Ordinary Time,
January 22, 2012:

Jonah 3: 1-5, 10
Psalm 25: 4-9
1 Corinthians 7: 29-31
Mark 1: 14-20

What, didn't Jesus call these guys in LAST week's Gospel?! True, John's Gospel account last week, happening at an earlier time (before John the Baptist's arrest) describes some initial encounters with Jesus. The immediacy of the apostles' dropping everything in Mark's account makes more sense if we realize that this WASN'T their first meeting with him. And to complicate matters further, the Gospels were not written as a history book, detailing in tight chronology exactly what happened when and where. The evangelists were concerned with telling the story of who Jesus was and what he did, and crafting the telling of that truth within a context that made sense to their audience.

We see here in the Gospel- as in the first reading for the people of Ninevah- an invitation that requires decisive action. Repent! Follow Me! (and Get Ready! for good measure in the second reading) It brings a whole new level of meaning to the old phrase, "he who hesitates is lost", doesn't it?

Is there some decision you've been delaying, some action you've been putting off?
Why? What are the consequences of saying 'yes'? Of saying 'no' or 'later'?
How or in what/who do you find confidence for significant decisions?

The topic for the Catechumenate this Sunday is "Ecumenism" (We are in the midst of the Week of Prayer for Christian Unity)
Mystagogia will meet this Sunday at 10:45am in the small chapel off the courtyard.
Inquiry is Tuesday evening, January 24.

Second Sunday of Ordinary Time- Year B

2012-01-13T14:37:00.000-05:00

Here are the readings for the Second Sunday of Ordinary Time,
January 15, 2012:

1 Samuel 3: 3b-10, 19
Psalm 40: 2, 4, 7-10
1 Corinthians 6: 13-15a, 17-20
John 1: 35-42

When did you first hear about Jesus, and from whom? Can you even remember, or has the sense of God always been a part of your life?
When faced with big decisions, by what process do you discern your choice? Do you look for guidance from others, do you go off by yourself to mull things over? Make lists? Pray?
What helps you listen to God's will?

The Catechumenate Session for Adults will meet this Sunday as usual, and the topic is Sacraments of Vocation. The Catechumenate Session for Youth will also meet as usual this Sunday, and the topic is Faithful Living.

January 8: Epiphany of the Lord

2012-01-05T11:20:00.000-05:00

Here are the readings for the Epiphany of the Lord,
January 8, 2012:

Isaiah 60: 1-6
Psalm 72: 1-2, 7-8, 10-13
Ephesians 3: 2-3a, 5-6
Matthew 2: 1-12

I can offer no better reflection than the one at the Catholic Moral Theology Blog for this feast. Please, take a few minutes and read the entry. Blessings of the Christmas Season!

The Nativity of the Lord: Christmas

2011-12-24T06:00:00.011-05:00

The readings for Mass vary, depending on what time you go to celebrate the feast! But please click here and choose your time, in order to prepare the Scripture ahead of time.

May you have a blessed and holy Christmas Season!

Wondering about Mass Times at St Andrew? Please click here. The Christmas Eve masses get very full, and begin as soon as the Church reaches capacity.

December 23: O Emmanuel

2011-12-23T11:19:00.001-05:00

Please click here for today's O Antiphon

December 22: O King of All the Nations

2011-12-22T09:15:00.005-05:00

Please click here for today's O Antiphon

December 21: O Radiant Dawn

2011-12-21T13:00:00.001-05:00

Please click here for today's O Antiphon

December 20: O Key of David

2011-12-20T14:57:00.000-05:00

Please click here for today's O Antiphon

December 19: Flower of Jesse's Stem

2011-12-19T13:00:00.000-05:00

Please click here for today's O Antiphon

December 18: O Lord (Adonai)

2011-12-18T16:09:00.001-05:00

Please click here for the O Antiphon post for December 18

December 17: O Wisdom

2011-12-18T16:04:00.000-05:00

Please click here for the posting on the O Antiphon for December 17

A little background.....
As we reach the latter part of Advent, we encounter seven traditional and ancient antiphons (responses) in the Evening Prayer of the Liturgy of the Hours. You may recall that in Jewish practice the day begins at sundown, so praying these antiphons during the vespers of December 17-23 takes us to the beginning of Christmas Eve. Each of these prayers is a plea for Jesus' coming, addressing him by an ancient Scriptural name, and petitioning for a particular act of salvation from him.

Here's an interesting bit of information, found at catholic-resources.org:

In the traditional arrangement, when viewed from Christmas Eve backward, the first letters of the Latin texts (Emmanuel, Rex, Oriens, Clavis, Radix, Adonai, Sapientia) spell out the phrase ero cras ("I come tomorrow").

Please come back each day this week, as we bring our Advent preparation to its joyful conclusion!

O antiphons

2011-12-18T14:39:00.000-05:00

Today in our RCIA session we talked a little about the "O Antiphons" which appear in Evening Prayer during the Octave of Christmas (the week leading up to the feast) ... you'd probably recognize them as the verses of "O Come O Come Emmanuel". So this week, I'll repost the entries of two Advents ago... which I should have done starting last night. Oops.

Fourth Sunday of Advent

2011-12-15T11:11:00.000-05:00

Here are the readings for the Fourth Sunday of Advent,
December 18, 2011:

2 Samuel 7: 1-5, 8b-12, 14a, 16
Psalm 89: 2-5, 27, 29
Romans 16: 25-27
Luke 1: 26-38

If you were to look through the Gospel of Mark (the earliest written of the 4 Gospels) and compare it to the Gospel of John (composed a good 30-40 years later), you'd quickly notice big differences in writing styles, the account of the Last Supper, even of the person of Jesus. In those intervening decades, some people had moved from a simple recording of the amazing events that Jesus accomplished to a pondering of who WAS Jesus that he was able to do all these amazing things. Our Gospel today (from Luke) gives us the story of the Annunciation, the angel Gabriel's announcement to Mary that she had been chosen to give birth to the Son of God, and Mary's acceptance. That gives us a bit of insight into the source of Jesus' abilities.

Imagine! A young, unmarried small town girl, undertaking a mysterious pregnancy in a culture founded on honor and shame. In retrospect, we recognize God's hand in so many ways supporting and reassuring both Mary and Joseph.

When have you felt called to do the impossible?
How did you respond?
Where was God in that process?
What difference does it make for you that God became human in Jesus?

The topic for the Catechumenate this Sunday will be Jesus and the Incarnation.
There will be no RCIA meetings on December 25 or January 1. Please check the bulletin or parish website (www.saintandrew.org) for mass times for these Holy Days.

Third Sunday of Advent

2011-12-10T17:12:00.000-05:00

Here are the readings for the Third Sunday of Advent,
December 11, 2011:

Isaiah 61: 1-2a, 10-11
Luke 1: 46-50, 53-54
1 Thessalonians 5: 16-24
John 1: 6-8, 19-28

There's something interesting happening with the responsorial psalm this week: it doesn't come from the Book of Psalms! Instead, it is taken from the Magnificat, the song of Mary in response to Elizabeth's words of blessing, in which Mary blesses God for using her as the means of fulfilling the eternal plan of salvation. And God's plan is one of setting things right, echoing the words of the writer of Isaiah in the first reading (and proclaimed later by Jesus as he begins his own ministry).

What is your role in God's plan of salvation?

The topic for the Catechumenate this week is Mary.

Immaculate Conception of Mary: December 8

2011-12-06T12:26:00.001-05:00

This Thursday is a Holy Day, and masses are celebrated at

6:30 and 9:30am and 7:30pm.

For some background on the Immaculate Conception of Mary,

please click here.

The readings for the day may be found here.

Second Sunday of Advent- Year B

2011-12-01T21:19:00.000-05:00

Here are the readings for the Second Sunday of Advent,
December 4, 2011:

Isaiah 40: 1-5, 9-11
Psalm 85: 9-14
2 Peter 3: 8-14
Mark 1: 1-8

Such beautiful words are recorded in the reading from the book of Isaiah today! "Comfort, give comfort to my people... speak tenderly" Some days are so harsh we yearn for a tender word, the consolation from one who knows and loves us. The psalm, too, anticipates good news when "Kindness and truth shall meet; justice and peace shall kiss." Oh, what a relief!!
After nearly a month of readings warning us to be alert, to prepare for the end, we are bathed in words of reassurance. The Season of Advent is a time of preparation, but NOT a time of penitence (we often confuse it with Lent, since both share the purple hue)... a preparation for the good and audacious news of Incarnation: of God-become-human.

Where in your life are the paths to love and goodness and path crooked?
Have you put obstacles in the way?
Why would you WANT to make it harder to live in love and peace, anyway?!

The Mystagogia Session is this Sunday, at 10:45AM in the small chapel.
We will celebrate a Rite of Acceptance and Welcoming with adults at the 9:30AM Mass this Sunday.
The topic in our Catechumenate session is Advent and the Liturgical Year.

Saint Andrew the Apostle

2011-11-30T12:29:00.000-05:00

Today is the feast of St. Andrew, patron saint of our parish!

Want to learn a little about him? Please click here.

Saint Andrew, pray for us.

Thirty-Fourth Sunday in Ordinary Time" Solemnity of Our Lord Jesus Christ the King

2011-11-17T13:54:00.000-05:00

Interior Dome of the Duomo in Florence

Here are the readings for the Solemnity of Christ the King,
November 20, 2011:

Ezekiel 34: 11-12, 15-17
Psalm 23: 1-3, 5-6
1 Corinthians 15: 20-26, 28
Matthew 25: 31-46

This is the final week of the Liturgical Year. Maybe you've noticed that as we end this scripture cycle, the themes of the readings have also been focused on things of the world to come? Does the thought of final judgment make you uncomfortable? As if you'll be given a big exam and forgot to study? Maybe these readings today can be a source of consolation and encouragement for you ... God is the caring shepherd, Christ has nullified the power of death, and we might just be caring for Jesus Christ even without intending to!

Do these scriptures uncover any new meaning to your relationship with God?
Who are the poor, imprisoned, thirsty people you encounter every day? What is your response?
Since we are coming to the end of this liturgical year, what are your "New Year's Resolutions"?!

The topic for this Sunday's Catechumenate is "Christ the King"

Thirty-third Sunday in Ordinary Time

2011-11-09T17:15:00.001-05:00

My friends, I am not able to easily do my normal post this week.
If you go to last Sunday's readings link and click there, you should be able to get to a calendar and click on November 13 for this Sunday's readings.

Know that I am praying for and thinking of you while on pilgrimage in Italy.
I expect to join the catechumens group this Sunday as we talk about stewardship.

Peace and all good,
Cathy

Thirty-second Sunday in Ordinary Time

2011-11-03T07:00:00.005-04:00

Here are the readings for the Thirty-second Sunday in Ordinary Time,
November 6, 2011:

Wisdom 6: 12-16
Psalm 63: 2-8
1 Thessalonians 4: 13-18
Matthew 25: 1-13

As we head quickly toward the end of this liturgical year, the Gospel readings urge us to live our lives always prepared to greet our God. I think many of hear the phrase 'prepare to meet God' and feel afraid, as if our Creator is a cranky principal who is about to hand down to us the stiffest detention ever suffered! But the Gospel says 'those who were ready went into the wedding feast with him' (the bridegroom, Jesus).... sounds good to me. Here's the question for us all: what does it mean to 'be ready'... in your life, when and how does your lamp shine brightly, and where does it feel as if you're running dry?

The topic for the Catechumenate this Sunday is prayer.
The Mystagogia group will meet this Sunday at 10:45am in the small chapel, to review the Sacrament of Reconciliation, in anticipation of our parish communal penance service for Advent.
Inquiry will meet on Tuesday evening November 8 at 7:00pm.

Thirty-First Sunday in Ordinary Time

2011-10-27T18:51:00.000-04:00

Here are the readings for the Thirty-first Sunday in Ordinary Time,
October 30, 2011:

Malachi 1: 14b- 2: 2b, 8-10
Psalm 131: 1-3
1 Thessalonians 2: 7b-9, 13
Matthew 23: 1-12

"Do as I say, not as I do" ... sound familiar?

In our world, in our country, who would be comforted by these readings, and who would be challenged by them?
Why?

The topics for Catechumenate this week will be Infallibility and the Communion of Saints
The Mystagogia group will meet on November 6 to review the Sacrament of Reconciliation in anticipation of our parish Advent Reconciliation service.

Thirtieth Sunday in Ordinary Time

2011-10-20T16:19:00.000-04:00

Here are the readings for the Thirtieth Sunday in Ordinary Time,
October 23, 2011:

Exodus 22: 20-26
Psalm 18: 2-4, 47, 51
1 Thessalonians 1: 5c-10
Matthew 22:34-40

The passage from the book of Exodus was establishing social norms for the Hebrew community. How was one to act with each other, and how was one to act to 'the other'? Together with the Gospel, how well do you think you, and we (neighborhood, faith community, state, country) are doing?

The Catechumenate this Sunday will address the Catholic Approach to Scripture.

The next Inquiry is October 25.

Twenty-Ninth Sunday in Ordinary Time

2011-10-13T12:08:00.000-04:00

Here are the readings for the Twenty-ninth Sunday in Ordinary Time, October 16, 2011:

Isaiah 45: 1, 4-6
Psalm 96: 1, 3-5, 7-10
1 Thessalonians 1: 1-5b
Matthew 22:15-21

After three solid weeks of pointed parables directed to the chief priests and religious rulers, is it any wonder that today's Gospel begins, "The Pharisees went off and plotted how they might entrap Jesus in speech"?

The Cyrus mentioned in the first reading was a Persian ruler who allowed the Israelites to return from captivity in Babylon. He was called by God for this role, even though he was not familiar with Israel's God. Any person can be an agent of God's mission, if they recognize and respond to the call.

If you've ever felt pulled between loyalty to two conflicting ties, perhaps the lesson of the Gospel is of some guidance. Living in the United States, with a strongly held value of separation of Church and State, there are times when the call to be a good citizen and the call to be a faithful Christian seem at odds. Perhaps to helps to remember the phrase on our currency, "In God We Trust".

What do you find easy to entrust to God?
What is hard to trust God about?

The Catechumenate does not meet this Sunday; they will be attending the Diocesan Catholic Convocation on Saturday.
The Mystagogia groups meets this Sunday at 10:45-11:30am in the Living Room. We'll be talking about the Prayer of St. Francis.

A wonderful anniversary!

2011-10-11T18:10:00.001-04:00

On this day forty-nine years ago, Pope John 23rd opened the Second Vatican Council. This gathering of bishops from all over the world happened over the course of 3 autumns, and served to breathe new life into the Roman Catholic Church. It would not be an overstatement to say that it was the most important church event of the 20th century.

For a bit of background information on "Good Pope John", please click here .

And for a neat reflective video on Blessed John 23rd and the opening of Vatican 2, please click here and enjoy for 9 minutes!

Twenty-Eighth Sunday in Ordinary Time

2011-10-06T13:23:00.000-04:00

"The Wedding Feast" by Kazakhstan Artist Nelly Bube.

Here are the readings for the Twenty-eighth Sunday in Ordinary Time, October 9, 2011:

Isaiah 25: 6-10a
Psalm 23: 1-6
Philippians 4: 12-14, 19-20
Matthew 22:1-14

Ah, the multiple meanings of the parables! Is Jesus talking about the widening of preaching from the Prophets to the Israelites, to the early Church to the Gentiles? Is he commenting on the behaviors expected of a believer? Or on our tendency to only reluctantly include 'others'? Does the wedding garment symbolize our baptismal garment? So much to ponder!

One thing is certain: today's major headache of people neglecting to RSVP is not a new phenomenon! (Mt 22: 3-5)

Taken together, today's readings give us insight into the early Christian community's sense of importance given to gathering together each Sunday to celebrate the Eucharist.

Beyond Mass, how do you observe the Lord's Day?
In what ways do you set aside a time to rest and reflect?

The topic for the Catechumenate this week will be "Mass".
Inquiry will meet this Tuesday October 11.
Mystagogia will meet next Sunday, October 16

Twenty-seventh Sunday in Ordinary Time

2011-09-29T12:46:00.000-04:00

Here are the readings for the Twenty-seventh Sunday in Ordinary Time, October 2, 2011:

Isaiah 5: 1-7
Psalm 80: 9, 12-16, 19-20
Philippians 4: 6-9
Matthew 21: 33-43

Consider that this parable follows in Matthew's Gospel immediately after last week's story of the two sons, and Jesus' conversation with the chief priests and elders about how public sinners would enter God's kingdom before them. How do you think his audience was feeling by the end of today's passage? What do you think Jesus was feeling and thinking, that he told them these parables? What is the message for us, today?

This week in the Catechumenate session, we will have an introduction to Catholic Social Teaching.

Feast of the Archangels

2011-09-29T12:15:00.001-04:00

Today is the feast of Michael, Gabriel and Raphael, archangels.

Please refer to an earlier post for a brief reflection.

Twenty-sixth Sunday of Ordinary Time

2011-09-22T11:30:00.000-04:00

Here are the readings for the Twenty-sixth Sunday of Ordinary Time, September 25, 2011:

Ezekiel 18: 25-28
Psalm 25: 4-5, 8-10, 14
Philippians 2: 1-11
Matthew 21: 28-32

To our American sensibilities, the concept of the sins (or blessings) of the parent being passed on to their descendents seems entirely strange. Why should an innocent person be cursed because their great-grandfather was a jerk? Or, why should a child of a blessed person even try to be good, if the blessings automatically got transferred to them?! The prophet Ezekiel takes on this long-held belief, and advocates for personal responsibility and conversion. (a message not kindly met by those currently 'blessed')

In the Gospel, Jesus responds to the religious leaders who have just questioned his authority with a parable highlighted the difference between giving the right answer and doing the right thing. (a message not kindly met by those currently blessed with power and the right answers)

How does the good news that sinners have the chance to change affect your understanding of God?
Do you identify with one of the sons in the parable, in your own inclinations to God's call?

The Catechumenate meets this Sunday and will be talking about 'Moral Decision Making'
This Tuesday is the next Inquiry session.

Twenty-fifth Sunday of Ordinary Time

2011-09-15T18:40:00.000-04:00

Here are the readings for the Twenty-fifth Sunday of Ordinary Time, September 18, 2011:

Isaiah 55: 6-9
Psalm 145: 2-3, 8-9, 17-18
Philippians 1: 20c-24, 27a
Matthew 20: 1-16a

How would you have felt at the end of the day, to have been the first chosen?
How would you have felt to have been the last chosen?
What does the Gospel parable tell us about God's love?

The Catechumenate will dismiss from the 9:30am mass this Sunday.

Twenty-fourth Sunday of Ordinary Time

2011-09-08T19:17:00.000-04:00

Here are the readings for the Twenty-fourth Sunday of Ordinary Time, September 11, 2011:

Sirach 27: 30- 28:7
Psalm 103: 1-4, 9-12
Romans 14: 7-9
Matthew 18: 21-35

The Gospel begins with a simple and familiar question from Peter, and ends with a puzzling and troubling parable. This is one of those weeks when the first reading can really help us shed some light on the Gospel. So please be sure to read Sirach again!

Divine forgiveness and human forgiveness constitute a tightly linked dynamic. They are connected through the heart, the spiritual center of the person.
The heart is the symbolic place that opens both to God and neighbor. It receives mercy from God and extends that mercy to others. If it fails to extend mercy to others, it loses the mercy it has received from God. - John Shea "On Earth As It Is In Heaven"

When is it easy to be merciful?
When does it feel nearly impossible to do so?
On this 10th anniversary of a day of immeasurable sadness, how are we in the U.S. challenged by today's Scripture readings?

Those in the Catechumenate will attend "Living Faith" for Fr. Joseph's presentation on "Sacrament".
For Mystagogia this week, we will meet at St. Bernadette in Fuquay-Varina at 4:30pm, to help serve the Migrant Ministry Dinner.
Inquiry will be this Tuesday at 7pm.

Twenty-third Sunday of Ordinary Time

2011-09-01T21:10:00.000-04:00

Here are the readings for the Twenty-third Sunday of Ordinary Time, September 4, 2011:

Ezekiel 33: 7-9
Psalm 95: 1-2, 6-9
Romans 13: 8-10
Matthew 18: 15-20

Religion and relationship come from the same root words, and the one for religion, religare, means 'to bind together'. These readings underscore for us that the nature of our lived faith is in relationship- with God AND with one another.

Let's be clear: Catholicism is not a 'Jesus and me' proposition--- we are a communal people- strangers who become brothers and sisters, formed into the Body of Christ though our baptism. Catholics in the United States have to get past the typical American rugged individualism, self-made man (woman) stereotype and remember that by our religious faith we are responsible for and to one another. We are bound to one another in community, in communion.

Here's the good news- it means we don't have to figure out this discipleship thing alone! We've got lots of people to help us by their example, prayers and words, as well as the sacraments of the Church to constantly remind us of God's limitless love for us.

Here's the challenge - sometimes that's going to require admitting that we've been wrong and asking forgiveness. Sometimes that gong to entail finding the kind and loving way to suggest to another that they may benefit from a change of heart or action. Sometimes -- it's just hard to know what to do or say!

Perhaps it helps to remember from the second reading, "You shall love your neighbor as yourself", and from the Gospel, "For where two or three are gathered together in my name, there am I in the midst of them.", and use those as a starting point.

When has it been challenging to love someone?
Has someone ever persuaded you to change, out of their love for you? How did you feel, and what effect did it have on your relationship?

Twenty-second Sunday of Ordinary Time

2011-08-25T18:36:00.000-04:00

Here are the readings for the Twenty-second Sunday of Ordinary Time, August 28, 2011:

Jeremiah 20: 7-9
Psalm 63: 2-6, 8-9
Romans 12: 1-2
Matthew 16: 21-27

What gets you all fired up? What do you love doing so much that you lose all track of time? What makes life just *that* much better for you? Maybe it's reading or gardening, exercising or cooking, building something in a workshop, or any job that you truly love.

If you think about that thing, you can get just a small sense of Jeremiah's dilemma. Deep down, his call was to be a prophet of the Lord, deep down- that's what gave him life ... and yet he struggled because the outcome was less glamorous and more dangerous than he was ready for. (Sort of a "Dirty Jobs: BC Edition")

Peter, too, had a different plan for what it meant to have an 'in' with the Messiah. Fame, power, prestige... all those temptations Jesus had successfully faced down in the desert after his baptism. And so Jesus is very direct with him, in redirecting Peter's expectations for discipleship!

But in the midst of what seem very harsh words, consider this... what if 'losing one's life for my sake' means that in spite of the hardships that arise, discipleship brings you so much joy, absorbs so much of your positive attention (like reading, or gardening, etc) that you find abundant life precisely in following the ways of Jesus Christ?!

Deny ourselves, take up our crosses, follow Jesus.... we're not promised a life without pain or sacrifice, but by being true to who we really are (people created in the image and likeness of God) our sorrows and thirsts, misunderstandings and obstacles can be transformed by the Divine Perspective, by hope, and by the promise of the resurrection.

In the crosses you have carried during your life, what part of yourself did you deny?
In this carrying of the cross, what life did you gain?

Twenty-first Sunday of Ordinary Time

2011-08-19T10:16:00.000-04:00

Here are the readings for the Twenty-first Sunday of Ordinary Time, August 21, 2011:

Isaiah 22: 19-23
Psalm: 138: 1-3, 6, 8
Romans 11: 33-36
Matthew 16: 13-20

Here's the key to it all: Who do YOU say that Jesus is, for you?

Inquiry meets this Tuesday, August 23.

Twentieth Sunday of Ordinary Time

2011-08-12T22:50:00.000-04:00

Here are the readings for the Nineteenth Sunday of Ordinary Time, August 14, 2011:

Isaiah 56: 1, 6-7
Psalm: 67: 2-3, 5-6, 8
Romans 11: 13-15, 29-32
Matthew 15: 21-28

A determined mother meets a man with a defined mission and challenges him to expand his vision. A woman dares to speak with an unrelated man of a different religion, and demonstrates an awareness of Jesus' power that many of his own culture were unable to accept. God's salvation is, after all, offered to all people, and we have the free will to accept or reject it.

If you could ask one thing of Jesus, what would that be?

Nineteenth Sunday of Ordinary Time

2011-08-04T12:27:00.000-04:00

Here are the readings for the Nineteenth Sunday of Ordinary Time, August 7, 2011:

1 Kings 19: 9a, 11-13a
Psalm: 85: 9-14
Romans 9: 1-5
Matthew 14:22-33

It is much too simple, and yet truthful all the same, to assert that 'peace' is a by-product, a deep assurance of God's intimate presence. Time and again in the Gospels, the Risen Christ greets his disciples with, "Peace!". He's echoing the scriptural greetings of the archangels whenever they, the messengers of God, appeared to humans. (Let's be honest, if an angel or previously-dead man appeared to you, wouldn't a sense of peace be exactly what you'd need?!)

There's a sense that this peace is hard-won.... not a simple fact of a lovely sunny, cool day with an ant-less picnic in your favorite locale... but the deep assurance that in whatever our struggles, whatever the storms that may surround us, God is there. God is there and ultimately will not let us come to ruin. It is, I think, unfair to blame God for these 'storms' as if God tests us in order to reward us--- that's just sort of passive-aggressive, which has never been one of the traditional names or descriptions of our Creator!

Rather, while God is perfect, and creation is good, the reality is that humanity, and life, is imperfect. And as the old saying goes, 'bad things happen to good people'. Unemployment. Foreclosure. Illness. Strained Relationships. Flunking a Course. Where is God? There may be no immediate fix, but remember Elijah and listen for the still small voice, remember Peter and reach out for Jesus.... focus on the peace in the whirlwind as a guide for how to live through it and come at last to the assurance that God IS with us.

Do you pray every day, taking time to listen as well as talk?
Where in your life do you feel ill-at-ease? Are there changes you could make that would lead you to peace?
When have you felt God's presence holding you up through difficult times?
Do you have an opportunity to extend that peace of Christ to someone who is now weathering their own storm?

Mystagogia meets this Sunday, 10:45-11:30am.
Inquiry meets August 9 at 7pm.

Sunday Reading Resource

2011-08-04T11:21:00.000-04:00

Here is another website that can help you prepare for or reflect on the Sunday Mass scriptures.

If you have children or teens, there are also questions and activities designed to relate to them.

Eighteenth Sunday of Ordinary Time

2011-07-28T10:46:00.000-04:00

Here are the readings for the Eighteenth Sunday of Ordinary Time, July 31, 2011:

Isaiah 55: 1-3
Psalm: 145: 8-9, 15-19
Romans 8: 35, 37-39
Matthew 14: 13-21

Do you know how it feels to try to dig yourself out of a mess all on your own? For every shovelful of progress, more dirt trickles back down, the sun beats hotter, the task looms larger. The scripture this weekend seems to address just this situation, reassuring us of God's generous concern and ultimate power to make things right.

These are beautiful Scriptures. I encourage you this week to read through them, to pick a phrase and use it throughout the week as a starter for prayer. Here are a few examples, but find the Word that speaks now to your heart:

All you who are thirsty, come to the water!
Listen, that you may have life.
The hand of the Lord feeds us, he answers all our needs.
The Lord is near to all who call upon him.
What will separate us from the love of Christ?
There is no need for them to go away; give them some food yourselves.
They all ate and were satisfied.

If you'd like to leave a comment with your own chosen phrase, please go right ahead!

Catholic Digest | The Magazine for Catholic Living | You’re more spiritual than you think

2011-07-26T17:20:00.000-04:00

Catholic Digest | The Magazine for Catholic Living | You’re more spiritual than you think

Seventeenth Sunday of Ordinary Time

2011-07-21T15:52:00.000-04:00

Here are the readings for the Seventeenth Sunday of Ordinary Time, July 24, 2011:

1 Kings 3: 5, 7-12
Psalm: 119: 57, 72, 76-77, 127-130
Romans 8: 28-30
Matthew 13: 44-52

I just read an interesting commentary on these parables in this Gospel. At first glance, it seems fairly straightforward to praise the finder for being willing to 'sell all' to gain the treasure. And yet. In selling all out of joy or desire to possess, the finder risks financial ruin, and is left with the puzzle of what to do once they have it. Great, you own a lovely pearl, but how will you feed your family on that? Okay new farmer, your crops didn't come in, but just how did you get so rich- who'd you steal from or cheat? From this perspective, the risk involved is one that comes from wanting to hoard the treasure, the kingdom, all for oneself. Huh.

So - how do we find the balance? How do we have the courage, the discipline and trust to deny ourselves for a greater good.... and yet not treat our faith as a trophy to be enclosed, admired even as it gathers dust, and protected and hidden from 'others'? Difficult questions, and ones I fear I am not stating clearly.

Despite the sorting stories at the end of this and last week's Gospels, Jesus was fairly inclusive in who is invited to the Kingdom of God. His stories and actions upset many in the religious establishment because they wanted to hoard salvation.

As Christians, we do believe Jesus' message that God's reign is now among us, and yet not fully so.

What changes do you need to make in your life in order for others to recognize that you ARE a member of the Kingdom of God?
What do you hoard or hide that is better shared or entrusted to others?

The next Mystagogia session is August 7.
The next Inquiry session is July 26, and will include a church tour.

A blog to visit

2011-07-19T16:30:00.000-04:00

Here is a link to a blog on Catholic Moral Theology that is sound and well-balanced.

(You do know that not all sites on the Internet that call themselves "Catholic" accurately represent authentic Catholic teaching, right? As with any large organization, those on the fringes ('right' or 'left') shout loudest ... so it helps to find the reasonable, moderate voices.)

Fifteenth Sunday of Ordinary Time

2011-07-07T14:56:00.000-04:00

Here are the readings for the Fifteenth Sunday of Ordinary Time, July 10, 2011:

Isaiah 55: 10-11
Psalm: 65: 10-14
Romans 8: 18-23
Matthew 13: 1-23

For many, many years, Catholics were discouraged from reading the Bible on their own, out of fear that we would misinterpret the sacred truths and be led astray. How very sad! During the Second Vatican Council- a tremendously important event for Catholicism that began in 1962- the document on Scripture echoed the words of St. Jerome by proclaiming that "Ignorance of the scriptures is ignorance of Christ."

When we gather as a group in RCIA, we begin by reflecting on that Sunday's Scripture, making connections between the timeless truth of that passage and our daily lives. In our catechumenate sessions, most often our topic is derived from the theme of the Sunday Gospel (that's called 'lectionary-based catechesis'- a helpful term to know if you happen to get caught in a church-nerd trivia contest!) ... we look to the Word of God to form, nurture and guide us.... to help us be the seeds planted in good soil, so that our lives may produce an abundant harvest.

The next Inquiry Session is Tuesday, July 12.
The next Mystagogia Session is Sunday, July 17.

Fourteenth Sunday of Ordinary Time

2011-06-30T08:50:00.000-04:00

Here are the readings for the Fourteenth Sunday of Ordinary Time, July 3, 2011:

Zechariah 9: 9-10
Psalm: 145: 1-2, 8-11, 13-14
Romans 8: 9, 11-13
Matthew 11: 25-30

Solemnity of the Most Holy Body and Blood of Christ

2011-06-23T07:00:00.001-04:00

Here are the readings for the Solemnity of The Most Holy Body and Blood of Christ, Sunday June 26, 2011:

Deuteronomy 8: 2-3, 14b-16a
Psalm: 147: 12-15, 19-20
1 Corinthians 10: 16-17
John 6: 51-58

I'm not sure that I could really blame those people who heard Jesus' words in the Gospel for shaking their heads and walking away.... his proclamation was pretty shocking and audacious! Eat my flesh, drink my blood...Was he espousing some type of cannibalism? And the word that he used for 'flesh' is NOT the one you'd use to describe Miss Universe contestants... but more of the broken and diseased bodies Mother Teresa ministered to in the streets of Calcutta. So, what DID he mean, how could ingesting THAT be life-giving?

We recall that God became human in Jesus not because of our perfection, but out of love and compassion for us in our frailty. And while Jesus gives us the perfect model of humanity, imperfection remains as a reality in our world, in our lives, sadly even in our Church. Here's the Good News: God doesn't reject us in our weakness. Members of the Body of Christ, through the indescribable gift of the Eucharist we are nourished by the Body of Christ, in order that we might carry his compassion, love, patience and healing forgiveness wherever there is pain or dis-ease. We may not get it right all the time, and that's why the Eucharist is offered daily as both reminder and sustenance for us.

As Ronald Rolheiser writes in his beautiful book, "The Holy Longing", "My task is not to walk to God as an individual but to be within a community that is worshiping God. ... in this life, whenever I meet the presence of God within community I will not meet it in its pure form. ...To be a member of the church is to carry the mantle of both the worst sin and the finest heroism of soul... because the church always looks exactly as it looked at the original crucifixion, God hung among thieves."

This link takes you to last year's blog post reflection, for YOUR continued reflection!

There is no RCIA gathering this Sunday. There will be an Inquiry Session on Tuesday, June 28.

St. Aloysius Gonzaga

2011-06-21T14:38:00.000-04:00

Most of us know the name "Gonzaga" as a small Catholic college with a basketball team that usually does well in the NCAAs. Today is the feast of St. Aloysius Gonzaga, an Italian Jesuit who died at age 23.
This article does a nice job of getting beyond the over-pious images that often dominate his story. I invite you to take a few minutes to read through it and learn a bit about one of our older brothers in Christ!
St. Aloysius Gonzaga, pray for us!

Trinity Sunday

2011-06-16T12:40:00.000-04:00

Here are the readings for the Solemnity of The Most Holy Trinity, Sunday June 19, 2011:

Exodus 34: 4b-6, 8-9
Psalm: Daniel 3: 52-56
2 Corinthians 13: 11-13
John 3: 16-18

We most directly know about God as Trinity through the revelation of Jesus. At his baptism in the Jordan, there is the voice from heaven and the descent of the spirit 'like a dove'. At his return to the Father, Jesus promised his Spirit would be with us always. In his Last Supper Discourses, Jesus repeatedly emphasized the unity inherent in God. We know our God to be one who has created all, whose love and mercy is offered for our salvation and who lives with us to empower and guide, comfort and sustain us.

While we rightly speak of the Triune God as a "Mystery" (a reality beyond our ability to fully comprehend) today's scripture passages all reveal important aspects of the nature of God. I invite you to take these scriptural words and phrases describing God to prayer, in preparation for this Sunday's Mass:

merciful
gracious
slow to anger
rich in kindness
faithful
love
peace
so loved the world
not.. to condemn... be saved

This is one of those rare Sundays when the Responsorial Psalm is not from the book of Psalms, but a hymn attributed to the 3 faithful Jews as they walked unscathed through a fiery furnace (put there for refusal to worship idols), and based on Psalm 148-- an all-encompassing song of praise to God who created and sustains all!

If you'd like to do a little further reading about this mystery of the Triune God, click here for a helpful article.

No RCIA groups are meeting this Sunday or this week. The next Mystagogia date is July 17.

and: Happy Father's Day!!

Pentecost Sunday

2011-06-09T09:53:00.001-04:00

Here are the readings for the Solemnity of Pentecost, Sunday June 12, 2011:

Acts 2: 1-11
Psalm 104: 1, 24, 29-31, 34
1 Corinthians 12: 3b-7, 12-13
John 20: 19-23

Where to begin? All of the readings hold such rich imagery, and speak of many and varied ways that God's Holy Spirit is present and effective in the Church and the world!

What words from these readings hold the most meaning for you today?
Which gifts or fruits of the Holy Spirit resonate in your life right now? (peace, wisdom, being sent, renewal, unity)
How is your life changed by the gift of the Holy Spirit?

Mystagogia meets this Sunday from 10:45-11:30am.
We celebrate with Laurie and Michael as they are received into full communion with the Catholic Church and are confirmed this Sunday at the 11:30am mass.
The next Inquiry session will be June 14.

Oh - and one nice tradition for Pentecost is for everyone to wear red, in honor of the Holy Spirit. (Even Tar Heel fans... it's for the Spirit, not the Wolfpack!)

Ascension of the Lord

2011-06-02T16:10:00.000-04:00

Here are the readings for the Solemnity of the Ascension of the Lord, Sunday June 5, 2011:

Acts 1: 1-11
Psalm 47: 2-3, 6-9
Ephesians 1: 17-23
Matthew 28: 16-20

What images and feelings do these readings hold for you?
Knowing that Christ is no longer bound by time and physical constraints, what does this mean for us as his followers?
What are the signs of Christ's presence now in our world, our communities, and our families?

Mystagogia meets in the Living Room at 10:45-11:30 this Sunday.

Sixth Sunday of Easter

2011-05-31T14:57:00.000-04:00

Here are the readings for Sixth Sunday of Easter, May 29, 2011:

Acts 8: 5-8, 14-17
Psalm 66: 1-7, 16, 20
1 Peter 3: 15-18
John 14: 15-21

Always be ready to give an explanation
to anyone who asks you for a reason for your hope,
but do it with gentleness and reverence,
keeping your conscience clear,
so that, when you are maligned,
those who defame your good conduct in Christ
may themselves be put to shame. (1 Peter)

Many of us are fans of drama. Focus on the bad news, show us the cat fights, tease us with scandal... that'll keep our interest! And yet the results of living a life empowered by God's Holy Spirit promise us "love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, generosity, faithfulness, self-control" (Galatians 5: 22-23): ho-hum, that'll never make the evening news!

Think of this passage from 1 Peter, and of these fruits of the Spirit listed in Galatians the next time you are tempted to argue/defend your faith with another. Matching stubbornness for stubbornness reveals nothing positive about the Body of Christ. Worrying about proving the other wrong illuminates little about the good in your own being. Certainly we are called to correct misconceptions, but always in a spirit of charity and patience, respecting as much as possible the good intentions that both sides hold (however hard they may be to see at the time!). The way you live your faith each day speaks far more eloquently than thousands of words - may your life be a clear and joyful Gospel!

Fifth Sunday of Easter

2011-05-19T20:50:00.000-04:00

Here are the readings for Fifth Sunday of Easter, May 22, 2011:

Acts 6: 1-7
Psalm 33: 1-2, 4-5, 18-19
1 Peter 2: 4-9
John 14: 1-12

You are “a chosen race, a royal priesthood,
a holy nation, a people of his own,
so that you may announce the praises” of him
who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light. (1 Peter)

What does this declaration and invitation mean for you?
In what ways do you praise God by your life?
How are you different now than you were one year ago?

Mystagogia meets this Sunday from 10:45-11:30am in the Living Room of the CARE Center.
Inquiry meets on Tuesday in the Living Room at 7pm.
The Catechumenate group meets on Tuesday at 7pm in Room 208.

120 Years of Catholic Social Teaching

2011-05-17T16:46:00.000-04:00

May 15 marked the 120th anniversary of the papal encyclical Rerum Novarum (The Condition of Labor), and this link summarizes a panel presentation at a recent conference marking this significant occasion.

At its most basic, the consistent social teaching of the church (which itself is rooted in Scripture from Genesis onward) is concerned with five themes:

Affirming Human Dignity
Valuing Work
Developing the Common Good
Creating Justice
Building Peace

Please don't think, 'oh how sweet, a nod to an old, out of touch document' and head straight back to updating your Facebook page. Please go to this recent editorial to read snippets of how both Pope John Paul II and Benedict XVI have continued and developed the tradition of social teaching, affirming the right of laborers to expect just wages and fair working conditions. This teachings may be a challenge to our American capitalist individualistic mindsets, but they are certainly rooted in the message of Jesus Christ - the One who brings us life in all its fullness!

Fourth Sunday of Easter

2011-05-16T11:39:00.000-04:00

Catacomb of Callixtus, 3rd century Rome

Here are the readings for Fourth Sunday of Easter, May 15, 2011:

Acts 2: 14a, 36-41
Psalm 23: 1-6
1 Peter 2: 20b-25
John 10: 1-10

The earliest paintings depicting Jesus were not of his crucifixion, or the last supper, or even his resurrection or ascension, but rather this image of Jesus as the Good Shepherd. In first-century Palestine, the sheep would be gathered at night into an enclosed space with one opening but no gate. The shepherd would sleep across the opening, becoming himself the gate and defender of the sheep.

In today's gospel passage, the description of Jesus ... may be summed up as follows: he protects his followers daily by laying down his own life for them, he gathers them into a unique relationship with himself, and he guides them by leading the way. (Foundations in Faith, RCL)

In what way does the image of Jesus as the Good Shepherd comfort you? In what way does it challenge you?
Where are you called to protect, guard and lead, in the manner of the Good Shepherd?

Mystagogia continues on May 15, 22 and June 5 and 12, from 10:45-11:30am.

Third Sunday of Easter

2011-05-06T16:54:00.000-04:00

Here are the readings for Third Sunday of Easter, May 8, 2011:

Acts 2: 14, 22-33
Psalm 16: 1-2, 5, 7-11
1 Peter 1: 17-21
Luke 24: 13-35

You will show us the path of life proclaims the psalmist, and in our Gospel we find Jesus walking the path with his disciples helping them to understand, through the eyes of faith, the events they've just experienced.

As you read through this Gospel story of the appearance of Jesus on the road to Emmaus, consider the similarities to what we do when we gather for Mass: bringing our joys and sorrows of the week together, interpreting them in the light of Sacred Scripture, and recognizing Jesus' real presence among us in the Eucharistic meal. Note also that their response to this recognition is to run out and share the Good News (Go in peace to love and serve the Lord!!)

How does the presence of Jesus help you live your faith?
What happens when you are able to recognize the presence of Christ in your midst?

There is no Mystagogia session this Sunday (Happy Mother's Day!). We will see you all on May 15 at 10:45am in the Living Room of the CARE Center.

Inquiry is this Tuesday at 7pm. Please contact Cathy Rusin for more information.

We adore you, O Christ and we praise you...

2011-04-22T21:21:00.000-04:00

... because by your holy cross you have redeemed the world.

Sitting in the service this afternoon, I watched as row after row of men, women and children came forward to venerate the cross. It took a long time. I had no idea the church was that full!

I was struck by the image of every individual there drawn toward this symbol of our salvation. Every one of us, pulled by our own particular knowledge of how Jesus has saved us... every one of us saved by the overpowering love of God. And what else can we do, but demonstrate our love, our gratitude, our profound awareness of Christ's strength healing our weaknesses with a bow, a genuflection, a touch, a kiss?

And yet all of us individuals come to the one cross. Our gesture is one of worship, not of convenience: no multiple cross stations, please!! Christ's saving sacrifice was offered once for all people, and as a people we come together in shared faith and praise--- our individual stories united by our common baptism into the Body of Christ.

As the Easter Vigil quickly approaches, you who have journeyed through the RCIA this past year will at last share with us at the Eucharistic table. May the Body and Blood of Christ sustain and strengthen you in your ongoing journey AS the body of Christ, continuing the mission of Jesus in your daily life! Brothers and sisters, let us pray for one another.

What are YOUR enduring images from the services of the Triduum?

The Holy Triduum

2011-04-22T13:20:00.000-04:00

We are in the midst of the holiest days of the Church year, recalling over these three days (Tri-duum) the story of our salvation in Jesus Christ.

I encourage you to refer to these daily posts as you prepare to celebrate the Easter Vigil:

Holy Thursday Post

Good Friday Post

Easter Vigil Post

Palm/Passion Sunday

2011-04-14T16:18:00.000-04:00

Here are the readings for Palm Sunday of the Lord's Passion, April 17, 2011:

Matthew 21: 1-11

Isaiah 50: 4-7
Psalm 22: 8-9, 17-20, 23-24
Philippians 2: 6-11
Matthew 26: 14 - 27: 66

The Scripture today is rich in vibrant images:
palms waving as the crowds cheer Jesus, humility, an intimate Passover Meal, betrayal, denial and desertion, a kiss, a sword, silence, "Hail, King of the Jews!", crucifixion, darkness, curtain torn, entombment.

This week, as we continue our preparations for the Easter Sacraments, walk with eyes and ears open to the many images of the Triduum, consider how Jesus' story affects your own, and be secure in the knowledge of the depth of God's love for you.
Elect and candidates, your faith community holds you in prayer in a very special way during these most holy days.

We will dismiss (the last one!!) from the 9:30am mass this week, with a session until 11:30am, as usual.

Fifth Sunday of Lent

2011-04-07T11:58:00.000-04:00

Here are the readings for the 5th Sunday in Lent, April 10, 2011:

Ezekiel 37: 12-14
Psalm 130: 1-8
Romans 8: 8-11
John 11: 1-45

This scrutiny and its scriptural texts are about life, an authentic life promised us by God that even the grave cannot take away as it claims our mortal remains. This is about the effects of sin, deadly sin, that entomb us and this world. This is about a Savior who weeps for us because he does not come to condemn us but to redeem us. This is about the voice of Christ, who calls us forth into a life that triumphs over sin and death and Satan's pride. This is about love, divine love and how it names us as friends, brothers and sisters, a family of mercy and fullness.
.....Lazarus becomes an icon for each believer who is loved deeply by Christ. This saving love bids us come out from the tomb of sin and death. This saving love commands that all restraints holding us back from fullness of life be unbound. This saving love gives to the Church sacraments that lift us up to everlasting life.
-Celebrating the Rites (Foundations in Faith)

The Third Scrutiny and Presentation of the Lord's Prayer will be at the 11:30 Mass this Sunday, followed by a session that ends at 1pm.

Fourth Sunday of Lent

2011-03-31T07:00:00.035-04:00

Here are the readings for the 4th Sunday in Lent, April 3, 2011:

1 Samuel 16: 1b, 6-7, 10-13a
Psalm 23: 1-6
Ephesians 5: 8-14
John 9: 1-41

The light of faith drives the darkness of sin away. We are enlightened by Christ, the Anointed One sent by God; the illuminating grace that he offers is gift. We cannot achieve this illumination, this seeing, on our own. Yet a choice presents itself to us. We could remain in stubborn blindness, willfully rejecting the gift being offered, or we can accept the shining truth that transforms us into witnesses to the faith.
-Celebrating the Rites (Foundations in Faith)

With whom are you most honestly yourself? Why?
How often is your prayer with God a lively and honest conversation? How might that happen more often, if necessary?
Where do you need God's illumination in your life?

This Sunday at the 9:30am Mass, we will celebrate the Second Scrutiny with our Elect. We will also have a pre-baptismal anointing of the Elect.

March Madness and Marriage

2011-03-29T16:52:00.000-04:00

Here's a link to a brief and interesting article on the similarities between strong basketball teams and strong relationships. Enjoy!

Third Sunday of Lent

2011-03-24T14:16:00.000-04:00

Here are the readings for the 3rd Sunday in Lent, March 27, 2011:

Exodus 17: 3-7
Psalm 95: 1-2, 6-9
Romans 5: 1-2, 5-8
John 4: 5-42

Whoever drinks the water God gives, discovers a spring inside, welling up for eternal life. We are watered in Christ so that whatever is weak may be strengthened, whatever is broken restored, whatever is lost found, and what is found redeemed.
-Celebrating the Rites (Foundations in Faith)

How have you experienced being an outcast, and for what reason? Who have you made an outcast, and why?
What in your life feels parched, dry and stale?
What do you thirst for? (justice, understanding, equality, holiness, peace, dignity, forgiveness, hope?)

This Sunday at the 5:30pm Mass, we will celebrate the First Scrutiny with our Elect. We will also present the Creed to our Elect; the great gift of our core beliefs which bind us as a people of Christ.

31 Years Ago Today

2011-03-24T10:53:00.000-04:00

Just after completing his homily at mass, Archbishop Romero of El Salvador was shot in the heart. Do you know his story? If not, or if you could use a refresher, let me direct you to last year's post on the 30th anniversary of the martyrdom of Archbishop Oscar Romero, Servant of God.

Oscar Romero, pray for us!

Second Sunday of Lent

2011-03-19T14:34:00.000-04:00

Here are the readings for the 2nd Sunday in Lent, March 20, 2011:
Genesis 12: 1-4a
Psalm 33: 4-5, 18-20, 22
2 Timothy 1: 8b-10
Matthew 17: 1-9

In the story of the transfiguration, Jesus is shown with Moses, who represents Jewish law, and Elijah, who represents the prophets- demonstrating that Jesus is both in line with and the fulfillment of Jewish tradition. We could imagine that such a vision might be a gift to strengthen both Jesus and his followers as the inevitability of his suffering and death and becoming more apparent.

In the light of Jesus' Transfiguration, what does being baptized in Christ mean for you?

The Candidates for Full Communion will celebrate the Penitential Rite during the 11:30AM Mass this Sunday, after which the Elect, Candidates, Sponsors and Team Members will leave for an afternoon retreat.

First Sunday of Lent

2011-03-10T16:57:00.000-05:00

Here are the readings for the 1st Sunday in Lent, March 13, 2011:
Genesis 2: 7-9, 3:1-7
Psalm 51: 3-6, 12-13, 17
Romans 5: 12-19
Matthew 4: 1-11

As we begin the season of Lent preparing for the new life of Easter, we enter with Jesus into the desert, to confront our own temptations. What was his mission about? Would it be based on- focused on- power, wealth or fame?

At baptism and confirmation, you are anointed for Christian mission. This Lent, go into your own desert and decide what temptations make it hard to clarify or carry out your own God-given vocation.

There is no RCIA Session this Sunday.
The Rite of Sending and Call to Continuing Conversion will be celebrated at the 5:30pm Mass on Saturday evening. The Rite of Election will be at 3pm at St. Andrew's on Sunday afternoon.

Please remember to set your clocks AHEAD one hour before you go to bed Saturday night!

Ash Wednesday

2011-03-08T17:44:00.000-05:00

Even now, says the LORD,
return to me with your whole heart

(Joel 2:12)

We begin the season of Lent with a call to conversion.

Our song echoes our hopes and desires for this new life in Jesus Christ:

A clean heart create for me, O God,
and a steadfast spirit renew within me.
(Psalm 51:12)

And we are marked with a cross of ashes, a double sign of our mortality,
with confident desire and expectation to share in the eternal life
promised by our God who can bring life
from the dust of the earth and from the depths of the grave.

While Ash Wednesday is not a Holy Day of Obligation, you are invited and encouraged to participate in Mass or a Liturgy of the Word service today.
The schedule at St. Andrew the Apostle is:
Mass: 6:30 and 9:00 AM, 5:30 and 7:30 PM
Liturgy of the Word with Distribution of Ashes: 12 Noon

Ash Wednesday is a Day of Fast and Abstinence: All Catholics are to refrain from eating meat (that includes chicken, but fish is okay) and (for those under 60 years) eat only one full meal, with no eating between meals. You may have two smaller meals that together equal one.

Ninth Sunday in Ordinary Time

2011-03-03T07:00:00.022-05:00

Here are the readings for the 9th Sunday in Ordinary Time, March 6, 2011:
Deuteronomy 11: 18, 26-28, 32
Psalm 31: 2-4, 17, 25
Romans 3: 21-25, 28
Matthew 7:21-27

How can you and do you respond to God's gift of grace?
What choices do you encounter that require a strong foundation of faith?

The topic for this Sunday's Catechumenate Session is Justification .

Eighth Sunday in Ordinary Time

2011-02-25T15:39:00.000-05:00

Here are the readings for the 8th Sunday in Ordinary Time, February 27, 2011:
Sirach 15: 15-20
Psalm 119: 1-2, 4-5, 17-18, 33-34
1 Corinthians 2: 6-10
Matthew 5:17-37

What keeps you from fully trusting God?
What keeps you from fully believing in God's care for and love of you?
What are images of God that you are most comfortable with?

The Catechumenate topic this Sunday will be "Images of God"
The rescheduled Mystagogia session will begin at 11am at the Macdonald's home.

Sixth Sunday in Ordinary Time

2011-02-10T14:20:00.001-05:00

Here are the readings for the 6th Sunday in Ordinary Time, February 13, 2011:
Sirach 15: 15-20
Psalm 119: 1-2, 4-5, 17-18, 33-34
1 Corinthians 2: 6-10
Matthew 5:17-37

The Gospel this week continues the 'Sermon on the Mount' discourse from the previous two weeks (Beatitudes, Salt and Light), and it could be viewed as practical applications of the beatitudes. Situated on a high place, like Moses delivering the 10 Commandments received from God, Jesus is positioned firmly in line with the lawgivers and prophets of Judaism. Yet he isn't simply repeating the well-known laws and rules, but challenging his disciples -and us- to a deeper way of living. "I have come not to abolish but to fulfill. You have heard that it was said to your ancestors... but I say to you..."

In essence, Jesus asks us to examine what's in our hearts. Sure, you might be obeying a law, fulfilling an obligation, but if your heart's not in it.... what's the use?

Look back at the Beatitudes (4th Sunday of Ordinary Time) and read through today's Gospel again... what connections can you make between them?
How does the law of love offered by Jesus, transform us and challenge us?

The Adult Catechumenate is not meeting this Sunday (last Sunday off until Pentecost!!!).

St. Josephine Bakhita

2011-02-08T12:50:00.001-05:00

Today is the feast of St. Josephine Bakhita, a woman born in the 19th century in southern Sudan. As her life is described here, she was a slave beginning at age 7, eventually accompanying her owner's daughter to Venice where she learned about and was attracted to Catholicism. Baptized at age 22, she eventually gained her freedom and became a religious sister.

In the homily at her canonization mass, Pope John Paul II, spoke of the inspiration of her life:

"We find a shining advocate of genuine emancipation. The history of her life inspires not passive acceptance but the firm resolve to work effectively to free girls and women from oppression and violence, and to return them to their dignity in the full exercise of their rights."

St. Josephine Bakhita, pray for us!

Fifth Sunday of Ordinary Time

2011-02-03T21:28:00.000-05:00

Here are the readings for the 5th Sunday in Ordinary Time, February 6, 2011:
Isaiah 58: 7-10
Psalm 112: 4-9
1 Corinthians 2: 1-5
Matthew 5: 13-16

What do the images in today's readings say to you about living as a Christian?
In the first reading from Isaiah, concrete examples of light-giving actions are presented... which come easily to you, which are challenges?

The topic for this week's Catechumenate Session is Eucharist Leads to Mission .

Fourth Sunday in Ordinary Time

2011-01-27T20:04:00.000-05:00

Here are the readings for the 4th Sunday in Ordinary Time, January 30, 2011:
Zephaniah 2:3; 3:12-13
Psalm 146: 6-10
1 Corinthians 1: 26-31
Matthew 5: 1-12

Recall that Matthew was writing to a Jewish audience, and he was concerned with demonstrating to them that Jesus was the promised Messiah, in the line of Abraham, Moses, Isaiah and David. In this Gospel passage, Matthew places Jesus on a mountain to proclaim the Beatitudes (while Luke has him on a level plain)... what parallel to an old testament figure do you think his readers would have recognized?

How do you make choices about your values and actions as a family member, worker or citizen?

The topic for the Catechumenate session this Sunday will be Foundations of Christian Morality.

Third Sunday of Ordinary Time

2011-01-20T19:56:00.000-05:00

Here are the readings for the 3rd Sunday in Ordinary Time, January 23, 2011:
Isaiah 8:23- 9:3
Psalm 27: 1,4, 13-14
1 Corinithians 1: 10-13, 17
Matthew 4: 12-23

Let's take a look at that second reading this week, where Paul urges the Corinthian community to shun divisions, to quit wasting their energy by focusing on asserting loyalties to the various leaders... except to the One who really matters: Jesus Christ. Being a Christian is not about impressing others by how much we know or how much we give or how holy we look while praying. In the Contemporary English Version translation of the Bible, approved for use in the Lectionary for Masses with Children, the reading ends this way:

Was I nailed to a cross for you? Were you baptized in my name?
Christ did not send me to baptize.
He sent me to tell the good news without using big words
that would make the cross of Christ lose its power.

In what ways, by how we live, the tone of our words, or to whom we assume superiority, do we make it harder for others to understand the redeeming power of Christ's cross?
Jesus came to relieve us of the burden of sin and conflict. How might you 'follow Jesus' by reaching out to a person you've quarreled with recently?

The topic for the Catechumenate Session this Sunday is Ecumenism.

Inquiry will meet on Tuesday January 25.

Today in Scripture

2011-01-18T16:34:00.000-05:00

As Jesus was passing through a field of grain on the sabbath, his disciples began to make a path while picking the heads of grain.
At this the Pharisees said to him,
“Look, why are they doing what is unlawful on the sabbath?”
He said to them,
“Have you never read what David did when he was in need and he and his companions were hungry? How he went into the house of God when Abiathar was high priest and ate the bread of offering that only the priests could lawfully eat, and shared it with his companions?”
Then he said to them,
“The sabbath was made for man, not man for the sabbath.
That is why the Son of Man is lord even of the sabbath.”
Mark 2: 23-28

Rules are important for keeping good order in a family or community. Most rules reflect the wisdom gained from multiple instances of trial and error.

Some rules however, have lost their authority through irrelevance or a lack of wise origin: "You can't do that." "Why not?" "We don't do that that way." "Why not?" "We've never done it that way." "Why not?" -silence-

In this Gospel, Jesus isn't counseling blatant disregard for authority and tradition, but he is reminding the Pharisees (and us) that the welfare of the person/community supersedes a law that is not life-giving or love-giving in that circumstance. Far from shouting, "hey, anything goes, as long as you're happy!", the point here is to use your God-given gift of conscience, grounded in love, tempered by prudence, and oriented toward the good of others rather than selfish concerns, to live out your faith by the choices you make.

St. Augustine famously said, "Love, and do what you will." That's not the syrupy hearts and flowers sort of love that's invaded our local drug stores in anticipation of St. Valentine's day. If you are a person grounded in love, grounded in God who IS Love, your choices (your will) can't help but be focused in the right direction.

Sometimes we adults pine for the relative clarity of childhood: do this and you get a gold star; do that and you get a time-out. Old-time Catholics might translate that to: follow the rules and you'll get points toward heaven; sin and you'd better get to confession ASAP! Taking responsibility for our moral choices and actions is a recognition that we are adult Christians, not children. Sometimes that leads to a holy freedom; sometimes that leads to a humbling need for reconciliation with those who have been offended in whatever way. Fear not! Jesus encourages us to remember the point of it all: Love.

Second Sunday in Ordinary Time

2011-01-13T17:15:00.000-05:00

Here are the readings for the 2nd Sunday in Ordinary Time, January 16, 2011:

Isaiah 49: 3, 5-6
Psalm 40: 2, 4, 7-10
1 Corinthians 1: 1-3
John 1: 29-34

The readings last week for the baptism of Jesus relate how God dramatically revealed Jesus' divine origin after the baptism in the Jordan River by John. In the Gospel this week, John is moved to proclaim the Good News he has heard, to share with others what he himself was so recently privileged to learn.

As you hear and ponder the Good News of Scripture each week, in what ways are you moved to share what you have learned?
The refrain of the Psalm this week makes a beautiful prayer in itself: "Here am I, Lord, I come to do your will." Consider making this your daily prayer this week.

In observance of the Martin Luther King Jr. Holiday weekend, there is no RCIA session (for adults, teens or children) this Sunday.

No Inquiry this Tuesday

2011-01-09T13:00:00.002-05:00

Just in case anyone who was thinking about coming to Inquiry is reading.... we will NOT meet this Tuesday, January 11. Please be in touch with Cathy Rusin if you have questions. Peace.

Feast of the Baptism of the Lord

2011-01-06T07:00:00.001-05:00

Here are the readings for the Feast of the Baptism of the Lord, January 9, 2011:

Isaiah 42: 1-4, 6-7
Psalm 29: 1-4, 9-10
Acts 10: 34-38
Matthew 3: 13-17

For catechumens: in what way might your baptism change you?
For candidates and sponsors: do you remember your baptism? Do you know the date, and celebrate it each year?
For all: how will/does your baptism prepare you to carry on Jesus' mission?

The topic for the Catechumenate this Sunday is "Baptism and Mission" .
Mystagogia will meet this Sunday, in the small Chapel.

Solemnity of the Ephiphany of the Lord

2011-01-01T13:29:00.000-05:00

Here are the readings for Sunday, January 2, 2011, the Epiphany of the Lord.

The readings today speak of universality: God's invitation to, welcome of, and love for all people. In what ways do we narrow our definition of who is welcome?
As this new calendar year begins, in what ways might you expand your heart in order to offer the best gifts of your life to Jesus Christ?

The Catechumenate session for adults meets this Sunday with dismissal from the 9:30 mass. There is no catechumenate for children and teens this Sunday.

December 23: O Emmanuel

2010-12-23T07:00:00.018-05:00

Epiphany by Janet McKenzie

O Emmanuel, king and lawgiver,

desire of the nations, Savior of all people:

Come and set us free, Lord our God.

"Emmanuel" means "God is with us".
The Deity is no longer an abstract concept out there in the ether,
but a living, breathing baby who grew to know and understand our
every need, desire, hope and fear.
God is with us!

May this Christmas season renew within you

the power and peace of God's Holy Spirit.

December 22: O Rex Gentium, O King of All the Nations

2010-12-22T07:00:00.014-05:00

O King of all the nations,

the only joy of every human heart;

O Keystone of the mighty arch of humanity:

Come and save the creature

you fashioned from the dust.

Why are we so enchanted by that which divides us?
The word 'catholic' means universal... and Catholic Christianity is not to be confined by any boundaries of nation or race, status or language. Jesus came to save all people by showing us the way to live that brings peace. The "king of all nations" chose to rule through humble service.
Out of love we were created; love is the keystone of our being.
God, who is Love, leads us from selfishness and distrust of the 'other' to the joy of an awareness of the shared redemption of all creation.

Do you believe in God's love for you?
How does this rule of love guide your life?

December 21: O Oriens, O Radiant Dawn

2010-12-21T07:00:00.028-05:00

O Radiant Dawn,
splendor of eternal light, sun of justice:

Come, shine on those who dwell in darkness

and the shadow of death.

The unknown, even if it is a good thing, can be scary. Being 'in the dark' makes us uneasy: what's the truth, where's the danger, what's going to happen next???? We yearn for the security that lets us sleep soundly through the night, rather than cowering against the shadows and noises of our fears and concerns.

In what way can the light of the Gospel illuminate the dark corners of your life?
In what way can you be light and warmth for someone in need?

December 20: O Clavis David, O Key of David

2010-12-20T07:00:00.001-05:00

O Key of David, o royal Power of Israel,

controlling at your will the gate of heaven:

Come, break down the prison walls of death

for those who dwell in darkness
and the shadow of death;

and lead your captive people into freedom.

Last month as we celebrated the feast of Christ the King, we talked about the qualities of a good king, including using power responsibly and looking out for the needs of his subjects.

Reading the Gospels, we find example after example of Jesus setting people free: from physical ailments, emotional demons, slavish obedience to peripheral laws, cultural expectations, alienation, hunger, fear, even death. This descendant of David and Son of God overcame every obstacle in order to demonstrate the depth of Divine Love for us.

As Moses led the Hebrews out of slavery in Egypt, Jesus breaks down the things that bind us, hold us captive, or make us feel dead inside. We know this to be true, and we yearn for it to be realized in our hearts, our homes, our communities and our world, today.

As you pray today, what bad habit keeps you imprisoned?
Ask Jesus to show you the way to freedom.

December 19: O Radix Jesse, O Flower of Jesse's Stem

2010-12-19T12:33:00.000-05:00

O Flower of Jesse's stem,

you have been raised up as a sign for all peoples;

kings stand silent in your presence;

the nations bow down in worship before you.

Come, let nothing keep you from coming to our aid.

The power of persistence can be awe-inspiring. A sapling growing through a crack in a sidewalk, a crocus blooming through the snow ... evidence of nature's determination to thrive. Isaiah chapter 11 is the source of the imagery in today's cry of longing. Written to the Hebrews forced to live in exile in Babylon, the author reassures them that despite all odds justice will be restored. Jesse was the father of King David, whom the exiles would have recalled -fourteen generations earlier- as a leader when they were strong as a people.

The great tree may be a stump right now, but the shoot will grow from it.
The raging fire may be smoldering embers right now.... but it will be fanned into flames again. That's a promise.
A promise fulfilled 14 generations later with the birth of Jesus.

As you pray today, what situations are testing your patience?
What example of persistence inspires you?

December 18: O Adonai, O Lord

2010-12-18T12:15:00.000-05:00

O Sacred Lord of Ancient Israel,
who showed yourself to Moses in the burning bush,
who gave him the holy law on Sinai mountain:
Come, stretch out your mighty hand to set us free.

If you read the Old Testament book of Exodus, you'll find a recounting of the Hebrew people getting to know who God is, and slowly learning who they are supposed to be, as 'God's people'. Look especially at Exodus 3:1-17, Moses encounter with God in the burning bush. God speaks to us, sometimes quietly and subtly, sometimes in dramatic ways. But always, God communicates to us a Divine Love and Desire to guide, protect and save us.

As grown-ups, we like people to think that we've got all the answers, we're in control and all is well. Deep within, we know of the uncertainty and restlessness that exists because it is impossible to control everything, know everything, and to protect everyone. In the long nights of winter, we long for the One who points us to our destiny, which is ultimate Peace and Truth.

In consideration for your prayer today, for who or what will you ask God's protection?

December 17: O Sapientia, O Wisdom

2010-12-17T07:00:00.001-05:00

O Wisdom, O holy Word of God,
you govern all creation with your strong yet tender care:
Come and show your people the way to salvation.

Among the people you know, who would you consider as a 'wisdom figure'?
What qualities of that person define him or her as wise?
When have you felt guided by God's spirit of wisdom?

O Antiphons

2010-12-16T15:07:00.000-05:00

As we reach the latter part of Advent, we encounter seven traditional and ancient antiphons (responses) in the Evening Prayer of the Liturgy of the Hours. You may recall that in Jewish practice the day begins at sundown, so praying these antiphons during the vespers of December 17-23 takes us to the beginning of Christmas Eve. Each of these prayers is a plea for Jesus' coming, addressing him by an ancient Scriptural name, and petitioning for a particular act of salvation from him.

Here's an interesting bit of information, found at catholic-resources.org:

In the traditional arrangement, when viewed from Christmas Eve backward, the first letters of the Latin texts (Emmanuel, Rex, Oriens, Clavis, Radix, Adonai, Sapientia) spell out the phrase ero cras ("I come tomorrow").

Please come back each day this week, as we bring our Advent preparation to its joyful conclusion!

Fourth Sunday of Advent

2010-12-16T13:03:00.000-05:00

Here are the readings for the 4th Sunday of Advent, December 19, 2010:

Isaiah 7: 10-14
Psalm 24: 1-6
Romans 1: 1-7
Matthew 1: 18-24

Can you put yourself in Joseph's place? Have you ever felt your tidy plans slipping away from you? Do you know that feeling of hollowness or gnawing indecision deep in the pit of your stomach? God's invitation to trust can sometimes be harder to accept than when all is clear and simple. Take some time this week to sit in prayer and consider where and how trust is a challenge in your life.

There is no Catechumenate session this Sunday. However, Cathy will be in the Living Room after the 9:30AM mass, ready to talk or answer questions. Our regular session resumes on Sunday, January 2.

A little fun

2010-12-16T12:44:00.000-05:00

It's a cold and dreary day here in central North Carolina, so how about a little diversion?
Check out the Digital Story of the Nativity . Enjoy!

Sunday, December 19

2010-12-14T22:07:00.000-05:00

While RCIA for children and teens WILL meet this Sunday, December 19, adults do not meet again until January 2.

However, Cathy Rusin will be in the Living Room after the 9:30 AM mass, until 11:30, happy to chat, answer any questions we've not gotten around to during our sessions, receive any baptism certificates you might have, etc. The coffee and hot water will be on, of course.

Feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe

2010-12-12T12:54:00.000-05:00

Please click here for last year's post on this wonderful day!

Third Sunday of Advent

2010-12-10T16:38:00.000-05:00

Here are the readings for the 3rd Sunday of Advent, December 12, 2010:

Isaiah 35: 1-6a, 10
Psalm 146: 6-10
James 5: 7-10
Matthew 11: 2-11

"What did you go out to see?" Jesus asks the crowds about John the Baptist. And that remains a good question for us, today.

What are you looking for, hoping for, expecting and praying for?
How well can we recognize the fulfillment of God's promises in the world around us?
On Gaudate Sunday we are invited to 'Rejoice' in the salvation God offers us... in what ways has your sight been restored, your ears opened and your wounds healed?

The Catechumenate Session this Sunday is on Prophecy and Incarnation.
Mystagogia meets this Sunday.
The next Inquiry is Tuesday, December 14.

Mass Times for the Holy Day!

2010-12-07T16:52:00.000-05:00

Wednesday December 8 is a Holy Day of Obligation, a special day, in addition to every Sunday, when we come together at Liturgy to celebrate what God does in our lives! Mass times at St. Andrew the Apostle are 6:30 and 9:00 AM and 7:30 PM.

For some background on the Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception of Mary, please click here.

Second Sunday of Advent

2010-12-02T17:00:00.022-05:00

Here are the readings for the 2nd Sunday of Advent, December 5, 2010:

Isaiah 11: 1-10
Psalm 72: 1-2, 7-8, 12-13,17
Romans 15: 4-9
Matthew 3:1-12

How does the author of Isaiah envision the reality of 'justice'?
How does John the Baptist measure 'repentance'?
What does that have to do with the season of Advent?

The topics for the Catechumenate session this Sunday are Advent and the Liturgical Year.

Another anniversary

2010-12-02T11:12:00.002-05:00

Jean Ita
Maura Dorothy

"I hope you come to find that which gives life a deep meaning for you. Something worth living for - maybe even worth dying for, something that energizes you, enthuses you, enables you to keep moving ahead."

-Ita Ford
Murdered Maryknoll Sister

30 years ago today, these three consecrated religious and one lay missionary were murdered in El Salvador. Please, do me a favor: Go read this, right now.

What can we learn from these women of faith? In what ways did the Gospel influence their decisions, their priorities, even their way of relating with people? And why might that be threatening to people?

Now my friends, I'm NOT encouraging you to go find ways to get yourself killed for your faith.... but what can we learn from these four as we continue on our journey of faith? Comments welcomed!

Our Parish Feast Day!!

2010-11-30T12:09:00.000-05:00

Today is the Feast of St. Andrew the Apostle!

To learn more about our parish's patron saint, please click here.

Thanks to all who came to morning mass and the celebration breakfast this morning! And a special thanks to those who arranged the breakfast!!

Dorothy Day

2010-11-30T11:44:00.000-05:00

“I really only love God as much as I love
the person I love the least.”
--Servant of God Dorothy Day

A founder of the Catholic Workers Movement, unwed mother and convert to Catholicism, Dorothy Day died thirty years ago today. Ten years ago, her cause for sainthood was opened, and with it granting her the title "Servant of God".

Here you may find a good background on a woman who lived by both a traditional piety and nontraditional lifestyle. The linked article says, "Her spirituality was very much focused on the effort to practice forgiveness, charity and patience with those closest at hand."

First Sunday of Advent

2010-11-25T07:00:00.042-05:00

Roof boss of Noah's Ark
Norwich Cathedral, England

Here are the readings for the 1st Sunday of Advent, November 28, 2010:

Isaiah 2: 1-5
Psalm 122: 1-9
Romans 13: 11-14
Matthew 24: 37-44

We begin a new Liturgical Year, and the Sunday readings are taken from Year A. We begin a new Liturgical season, Advent, whose purpose is to prepare us for the season of Christmas.

The readings speaking of preparation. While the Gospel speaks of us preparing as to guard against a thief or a flood, the other readings and psalm encourage us to prepare for right living, peace, and salvation. And they are all correct!

Let's think about preparation. In most households, much preparation has gone into getting ready for Thanksgiving: cleaning the house, shopping for and cooking the feast, setting the table, etc. One person's drudgery is another's joy. Then there is the anticipation of house guests: friends and family who may bring delight or trepidation by their presence. Life's hardly ever simply simple--- mixed in with our abundant blessings are challenges and concerns large and small.

What do the images of these readings mean to you?
How can you prepare for the coming of Christ, both at Christmas (at Easter through the waters of baptism for catechumens) and at the end of time?

There is no RCIA session this Sunday.

Advent Wreath

2010-11-22T13:32:00.000-05:00

Candidates and catechumen yesterday received a box of Advent candles (not dripless, may I caution you again?!), and in case you'd like a little more direction about what to do with them, please check out the blog post here .

Hope it's helpful! (And for those of you who missed the session yesterday, well.... guess you can start with the 2nd Sunday of Advent, when next we gather.)

Happy Thanksgiving, y'all! May the list of blessings you recollect that day last longer than the parade AND football game combined. -Cathy

Solemnity of Christ the King

2010-11-18T14:16:00.000-05:00

Here are the readings for the Last Sunday of Ordinary Time,
The Solemnity of Our Lord Jesus Christ the King, November 21, 2010:

2 Samuel 5: 1-3
Psalm 98: 5-9
Colossians 1: 12-20
Luke 23: 35-43

What do these readings tell us about the kingship of Jesus Christ?
What consequence does it have, if any, in your daily life?

The topic for the Catechumenate session this week is "Christ the King"
Mystagogia will meet this Sunday in Care Center Room 214.
There will NOT be Inquiry on November 23.

St. Elizabeth of Hungary

2010-11-17T12:38:00.000-05:00

Today is the feast of Saint Elizabeth of Hungary, who lived, briefly, in the 13th Century. We like to assign descriptive titles to our canonized saints, but she was neither virgin nor martyr, doctor nor foundress (and definitely not bishop or apostle). The title we've put after her name is 'religious'- and yet, she wasn't a nun, either. And in that, I think she can be a model for many of us.

Elizabeth's father was the King of Hungary. Okay, okay: few of us are truly princesses. However, many of us live, even in these troubled economic times, lives of security and comparative wealth. She chose to live simply and prayerfully, using her position to help those in need.

Elizabeth married young, at age 14 perhaps for a political alliance with a German principality. She loved Louis (Ludwig) deeply and they had three children together before he was killed in the Crusades. A widow at age twenty, her generosity to the poor earned the disapproval of her in-laws. It took the return of her husband's friends to restore her place and status as mother of the heir to the throne. (I wonder if her in-laws were greedy or perhaps truly concerned for the future security of their grandchildren, or both... so often in family feuds, it's not clearly one side or the other, is it?)

She joined the Secular Franciscan Order (adopting the lifestyle of Franciscans while continuing to live outside a religious community) and founded and worked in a hospital for the poor until her death in 1231- just before her 24th birthday. (You don't have to wait until you get older to accomplish good things)

Taking into account the Gospel reading for today about ten gold coins and the upcoming Feast of Christ the King this Sunday, Elizabeth's example presents us with an opportunity for reflection on our own use of whatever 'power' and resources that have been entrusted to our care.

Elizabeth of Hungary, pray for us!

Thirty-third Sunday of Ordinary Time

2010-11-12T14:14:00.000-05:00

Here are the readings for the 33rd Sunday of Ordinary Time, November 14, 2010:

Malachi 3: 19-20a
Psalm 98: 5-9
2 Thessalonians 3: 7-12
Luke 21: 5-19

Here's the typical question, given this Sunday's gospel:

If you knew that the world was going to end in one week, what would you do?
Would it differ at all from what you're doing now? If so, how?

There will be a Rite of Acceptance and Welcoming at the 9:30 Mass this Sunday.
Our dismissal happens right after the intercessions.

Thirty-second Sunday of Ordinary Time

2010-11-04T12:11:00.000-04:00

Here are the readings for the 32nd Sunday of Ordinary Time, November 7, 2010:

2 Maccabees 7: 1-2, 9-14
Psalm 17: 1, 5-6, 8, 15
2 Thessalonians 2: 16- 3:5
Luke 20: 27-38

None of us living today know the full story or can accurately describe what life will be like after our earthly death. And so we use images that make some sort of sense to us from our experiences. And we look to the words of Jesus and our ancestors in faith for some guidance.

In the creeds that we profess, we declare a belief in the resurrection of the body, and life everlasting. How might you describe 'resurrection', 'heaven', 'hell'?

The topic for our Catechumenate Session this Sunday is the "Last Things" (Heaven, Hell, Purgatory)

NOTE: Please turn your clock BACK one hour this Saturday before you go to sleep. Otherwise, you'll be at Sunday mass an hour too soon!

Feast of All Saints

2010-11-01T14:20:00.000-04:00

As promised, here is the link to the page about patron saints.

I found this today on another blog, and thought it was worth sharing:

What God wants most of all for each one of you is that you should become holy. He loves you much more than you could ever begin to imagine, and he wants the very best for you. And by far the best thing for you is to grow in holiness.

Perhaps some of you have never thought about this before. Perhaps some of you think being a saint is not for you. Let me explain what I mean. When we are young, we can usually think of people that we look up to, people we admire, people we want to be like. It could be someone we meet in our daily lives that we hold in great esteem. Or it could be someone famous. We live in a celebrity culture, and young people are often encouraged to model themselves on figures from the world of sport or entertainment. My question for you is this: what are the qualities you see in others that you would most like to have yourselves? What kind of person would you really like to be?

When I invite you to become saints, I am asking you not to be content with second best. I am asking you not to pursue one limited goal and ignore all the others. Having money makes it possible to be generous and to do good in the world, but on its own, it is not enough to make us happy. Being highly skilled in some activity or profession is good, but it will not satisfy us unless we aim for something greater still. It might make us famous, but it will not make us happy. Happiness is something we all want, but one of the great tragedies in this world is that so many people never find it, because they look for it in the wrong places. The key to it is very simple – true happiness is to be found in God. We need to have the courage to place our deepest hopes in God alone, not in money, in a career, in worldly success, or in our relationships with others, but in God. Only he can satisfy the deepest needs of our hearts.

Tapestries by John Nava in the
Cathedral in Los Angeles, CA

Not only does God love us with a depth and an intensity that we can scarcely begin to comprehend, but he invites us to respond to that love. You all know what it is like when you meet someone interesting and attractive, and you want to be that person’s friend. You always hope they will find you interesting and attractive, and want to be your friend.

God wants your friendship. And once you enter into friendship with God, everything in your life begins to change. As you come to know him better, you find you want to reflect something of his infinite goodness in your own life. You are attracted to the practice of virtue. You begin to see greed and selfishness and all the other sins for what they really are, destructive and dangerous tendencies that cause deep suffering and do great damage, and you want to avoid falling into that trap yourselves. You begin to feel compassion for people in difficulties and you are eager to do something to help them. You want to come to the aid of the poor and the hungry, you want to comfort the sorrowful, you want to be kind and generous. And once these things begin to matter to you, you are well on the way to becoming saints.”

--Pope Benedict XVI
Greeting to Catholic Pupils of the United Kingdom
St Mary's College, Twickenham
17 September 2010